cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The electrophysiology of prefrontal serotonin systems: therapeutic implications for mood and psychosis

A newly described synaptic action of serotonin (5-HT) in the cerebral cortex is reviewed, and implications for mood and psychosis are discussed. Recordings in brain slices show that 5-HT induces a rapid increase in excitatory postsynaptic potentials/currents (EPSPs/EPSCs) in virtually all layer V pyramidal cells of neocortex. This effect is mediated by the 5-HT2A receptor, which has been linked to the action of hallucinogenic and atypical antipsychotic drugs. The increase in EPSCs is seen most prominently in medial prefrontal cortex and other frontal regions where 5-HT2A receptors are enriched. The induction of EPSCs by 5-HT appears to occur through a novel mechanism that does not depend on the activation of afferent impulse flow. Instead, 5-HT appears to act presynaptically, directly or indirectly, to induce a focal release of glutamate from a subpopulation of glutamatergic terminals impinging upon the apical (but not basilar) dendrites of layer V pyramidal cells; a working hypothesis of the transduction pathway (involving asynchronous transmitter release) for this process is presented. Consistent with a focal action upon glutamatergic nerve terminals, the 5-HT-induced EPSPs can be suppressed by presynaptic inhibitory modulators such as mu-opiate or group II/III metabotropic agonists. We suggest that the suppression of 5-HT-induced EPSCs by 5-HT2A antagonists and mu-opiate agonists may underlie certain shared clinical effects of 5-HT2A antagonists and mu-opiate agonists. We suggest further that since presynaptic group II/III metabotropic glutamate agonists suppress 5-HT-induced EPSCs, metabotropic glutamate agonists may also possess antidepressant and/or antipsychotic properties.
Analyses of Dual Credit in Rural Eastern Colorado

The purpose of this study was to analyze the available data on dual credit programs at 29 high schools served through five college centers of one community college over a time span of nine years. This is the first study completed in Colorado examining the PSEO (Post Secondary Enrollment Options) Act that allows dual credit programs funded by the state. It investigates the variables associated with student access and selection. The results of the study suggest that the purpose of the legislation is being met. Nearly all of the selected high schools provide some dual credit courses to eligible high school students. The data also indicated that there is a strong relationship between distance education among schools linked by networks and the rate of participation.
ON ADAPTING SYNCHRONOUS MACHINES FOR OPERATION WITH ARBITRARY TERMINAL WAVEFORMS

ABSTRACT This paper proposes a new way in which the energy transfers associated with commutation in a machine/converter system might be supplied by electromechanical means. Specifically, the internally generated voltage of the machine is to be tailored so that the terminal voltage matches the output waveforms of the switching converter. In order to determine what generated voltage is required, a model of a synchronous machine has been developed which takes into account the possible presence of time harmonics in the armature voltages and currents. The model represents the machine as a series of independent linear circuits with one linear circuit representing a single time harmonic. Methods for calculating lumped parameters used in the model are presented. Also presented is a procedure for using the model to design a machine that is well adapted for use with a static frequency converter.
Gamma-ray imaging with Compton cameras

Abstract Compton cameras use the kinematics of Compton scattering to construct a source image without the use of collimators or masks. Compton telescopes were first built in the 1970s for astronomical observations. The first laboratory instrument was designed for medical imaging. Recently, three dimensional imaging has been demonstrated using an array of high resolution germanium detectors for characterization of mixed radioactive waste containers. Image resolution depends on the detector accuracy in both energy and position and on the image reconstruction algorithm. Advantages of Compton imaging include a wide field of view, background suppression, the ability to image high energy gamma rays (up to 10 MeV) and the ability to obtain three dimensional images from a fixed position on one side of the source without the need for tomography. The operation of Compton cameras will be reviewed along with recent results and future prospects.
An Interactive Computer Peripheral to Measure the Electromyographic Silent Period

A device to provide automated measurement of the electromyographic silent period with real time capability utilizing a voltagetime window is described. This device is being used in the clinical dental diagnosis and treatment of functional disorders of the masticatory system. The design, performance, utilization, and other applications of this device are discussed.
A methodology for fixed observational network design: theory and application to a simulated global prediction system

A methodology called the retrospective design algorithm (RDA) for fixed observational network design is presented. The RDA makes use of archived ensemble forecasts to estimate the value of various spatial configurations of fixed observational networks. For large dimensional geophysical applications of interest, the RDA can test a variety of fixed networks without having to repeatedly integrate the prediction model equations, unlike observing system simulation experiments (OSSEs). The RDA does not require the adjoint of the prediction model or observation operator. As a proof of concept, the utility of the RDA is tested by making direct comparisons to OSSEs for a simple surface pressure network design problem in a simulated global atmospheric prediction system. A high degree of correspondence between information obtained from OSSEs and the RDA was found for a variety of verification regions and forecast lead times.
The Electronic Capacitance Meter: A Tool for Evaluating Riparian-Fishery Habitat

Abstract Methodology to evaluate riparian-fishery habitat needs to be improved to better evaluate riparian conditions and encourage interaction between range and fishery managers. The electronic capacitance herbage meter was tested for estimating streamside forage biomass and use by livestock, and it was found to be potentially accurate but not without difficulties. Agreement between herbage meter and visual estimates of vegetation use was generally good, but some divergent estimates indicated the need to evaluate the source of the problems to refine both techniques. We foresee great potential for the herbage meter with respect to increasing reliability and reducing cost in riparian-fishery habitat studies.
System-level design language standard needed

The combination of SystemVerilog, SystemC, and the property specification language (PSL) promises a powerful and flexible foundation for design. Together, these standards address clear needs for emerging software-rich designs; critical capabilities for these standards include advanced verification features such as solvers and constrained random testing. This combination of standards brings powerful assertion capabilities that, with PSL, provide a bridge to formal verification and the ability to apply assertions across multiple design languages.
Dural relationships of Meckel cave and lateral wall of the cavernous sinus.

Object The purpose of this study was to elucidate the anatomy of the trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve [CN] V), Meckel cave (MC), and lateral wall of the cavernous sinus (CS). Methods Ten fresh cadaver heads (20 sides) and 2 middle fossa embalmed specimens were removed, decalcified, sectioned, stained, and studied microscopically. Results In the MC, the posterior fossa meningeal dura extended into the middle fossa surrounding CN V. The average medial length of the MC was 16.7 mm and the lateral length was 13.5 mm. The dural roof of MC was thicker than its floor and was covered by a paw-shaped fibrous tissue extending from the tentorium to the ganglion (in 100% of specimens). Between the dural sleeve of the MC and venous space of the CS, a separate fibrous wall could be identified in 45% (9 of 20) extending between the tentorium and the floor of the CS. The mean length of CN V in the MC proximal to the posterior margin of the Gasserian ganglion was 11.8 mm. The mean length of CN V1 was 19.4 mm; V2, 12.3 mm; ...
Femtosecond time-resolved studies of laser ablation

Laser ablation has proven to be an important technology in an increasing number of applications. The fundamental mechanisms underlying laser ablation processes are quite complicated, and include laser interactions with the target as well as plasma development off the target. While substantial progress has been achieved in understanding laser ablation on the nanosecond and picosecond time scales, it remains a considerable challenge to elucidate the underlying mechanisms during femtosecond laser ablation. We present experimental observations of plasma development inside silica glass during single femtosecond laser pulse (100 fs, 800 nm) irradiation. Using a femtosecond time-resolved imaging technique, we measured the evolution of a laser-induced plasma inside the glass that has an electron number density on the order of 1019 cm-3. Additionally, we observed an air plasma outside the target which forms long before the explosion of a material vapor plume.© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Homelessness, Travel Behavior, and the Politics of Transportation Mobilities in Long Beach, California:

The geography of homelessness is often characterized as containment in marginalized spaces of cities or as placelessness necessitating continuous travel. These characterizations, which reflect discourses about ‘the homeless’ as an imagined deviant homogeneous group, have had substantial effects on policy formation and critiques of punitive turns in urban governance. Suggested policy responses frequently assume straightforward relationships between power/powerlessness and mobility/immobility binaries that do not appropriately portray actual mobility patterns of homeless individuals. Through focus groups and structured interviews, this paper examines the daily mobility of homeless adults in Long Beach, California, to identify the ways in which the everyday travel of homeless individuals compares with these ‘imagined’ characterizations and with national US household travel patterns. Results show that homeless mobility is highly spatially constrained and structured by sociocultural relations of stigmatization...
Illustrative applications of the theory of delay dynamical systems

This investigation is aimed at describing the reduction of a class of nonlinear delay differential equations having single and multiple time delays. We use the theory of delay dynamical systems, whose underlying mathematics is summarized. The delay versions of Duffing, van der Pol and Tobias equations are considered as illustrative examples.
On the Stability of Godunov-Projection Methods for Incompressible Flow

An analysis of the stability of certain numerical methods for the linear advection?diffusion equation in two dimensions is performed. The advection?diffusion equation is studied because it is a linearized version of the Navier?Stokes equations, the evolution equation for density in Boussinesq flows, and a simplified form of the equations for bulk thermodynamic temperature and mass fraction in reacting flows. It is found that various methods currently in use which are based on a Crank?Nicholson type temporal discretization utilizing second-order Godunov methods for explicitly calculating advective terms suffer from a time-step restriction which depends on the coefficients of diffusive terms. A simple modification in the computation of the advective derivatives results in a method with a stability condition that is independent of the magnitude of the coefficients of the diffusive terms.
The effect of breakfast type and frequency of consumption on glycemic response in overweight/obese late adolescent girls.

The effect of breakfast type and frequency of consumption on glycemic response in overweight/obese late adolescent girls
Bulk metals with helical surface states

In the flurry of experiments looking for topological insulator materials, it has been recently discovered that some bulk metals very close to topological insulator electronic states support the same topological surface states that are the defining characteristic of the topological insulator. First observed in spin-polarized angle resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES) in Sb [D. Hsieh et al., Science 323, 919 (2009)], the helical surface states in the metallic systems appear to be robust to at least mild disorder. We present here a theoretical investigation of the nature of these “helical metals”—bulk metals with helical surface states. We explore how the surface and bulk states can mix, in both clean and disordered systems. Using the Fano model, we discover that in a clean system, the helical surface states are not simply absorbed by hybridization with a nontopological parasitic metallic band. Instead, they are pushed away from overlapping in momentum and energy with the bulk states, leaving behind a finite-lifetime surface resonance in the bulk energy band. Furthermore, the hybridization may lead in some cases to multiplied surface-state bands, in all cases retaining the helical characteristic. Weak disorder leads to very similar effects—surface states are pushed away from the energy bandwidth of the bulk, leaving behind a finite-lifetime surface resonance in place of the original surface states.
Intermittent self-catheterization by quadriplegic patients via a catheterizable Mitrofanoff channel

ABSTRACTPurpose: Neurogenic bladder due to cervical spinal cord injury is often best managed by clean intermittent catheterization. Limited upper extremity function makes patients with quadriplegia dependent on caregivers for clean intermittent catheterization. The Mitrofanoff umbilical appendicovesicostomy provides easy access to the bladder in patients with all types of access difficulty. We evaluated the Mitrofanoff umbilical appendicovesicostomy in 7 patients with quadriplegia.Materials and Methods: Four men and 3 women with cervical spinal cord injury underwent the Mitrofanoff umbilical appendicovesicostomy with appendix (5) or ileum (2).Results: All patients are continent and able to self-catheterize via the umbilical stoma. In 1 patient with an ileal Mitrofanoff umbilical appendicovesicostomy umbilical incontinence was repaired surgically and stomal stenosis developed in 1, which required stomal revision. All patients use the stoma regularly. Four patients have moved out of care facilities and are ...
A uvbyβ photometric analysis of the Monoceros star‐forming field

This investigation presents a new analysis of the spatial distribution of the bright early-type stars in the field of Northern Monoceros. A database of all O–B9 stars with available uvbyβ photometry is collated and a homogeneous distance scale is established for the clusters and layers of field stars. We provide revised distances for NGC 2264 and NGC 2244 of 833±38 (s.e.) pc and 1585±60 (s.e.) pc, respectively. We present arguments that there might be substructures in the clusters projected along the line of sight. According to the present sample the classical Mon OB2 association at 1.6 kpc is represented by a relatively compact group at 1.26 kpc in the vicinity of NGC 2244 and a layer of massive stars located between 1.5 and 3 kpc (© 2010 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The cell wall of the chlamydomonad flagellate,Gloeomonas kupfferi (Volvocales, Chlorophyta)

The large unicellular flagellate,Gloeomonas kupfferi, has recently been used as an important tool in chlamydomonad cell biology research, especially in studies dealing with the structure and function of the endomembrane system. However, little is known about the main secretory product, the cell wall. This study presents structural, chemical and immunological information about this wall. This 850–900 nm thick matrix is highly elaborate and consists of three distinct layers: an inner stratum (325 nm thick) consisting of tightly interwoven fibers, a medial crystalline layer consisting of 22–23 nm subunits and an outer wall layer (500 nm thick) of outwardlyradiating fibrils. Rapid freeze-deep etch analysis reveals that the 35–40 nm fibers of the outer layer form a quasi-lattice of 160 nm subunits. The outer wall can be removed from whole pellets using the chelator, CDTA. The medial wall complex can be solubilized by perchlorate. SDS-gel electrophoresis reveals that the perchlorate soluble-material consists of five high molecular weight glycoproteins and five major low molecular weight glycoproteins. The electrophoretic profile is roughly similar to that ofChlamydomonas reinhardtii. Antibodies were successfully raised against the outer wall component and were shown to label the outer wall layer.
THE RISK OF CANNIBALISM AND MALE MATING BEHAVIOR IN THE MEDITERRANEAN PRAYING MANTID, IRIS ORATORIA

This study examined male behavior in response to the risk of cannibalism in the Mediterranean praying mantid, Iris oratoria (Mantodea: Mantidae). The risk of cannibalism was manipulated by placing males in one of two positions at the start of a mating trial: Frontal, where the males faced the females' fronts (high risk of cannibalism), or Rear, where the males were behind the females, facing their posteriors (lower risk). Three male behaviors were examined in terms of risk-reduction: whether the male attempted to mount the female, the direction of his first mount attempt, and the time taken for him to attempt to mount. Initial position did not have a significant effect on whether males attempted to mount the females. Males showed a preference for non-frontal mount attempts, and males placed Frontally were less likely to mount from their initial direction than were males placed in the Rear. Males placed in the Rear attempted to mount sooner than males placed Frontally, especially if the males could approach and mount while remaining behind the females. While the males approached the females, movements by both sexes resulted in changes in how the males faced the females,
Effects of an insect growth regulator on plankton and Gambusia affinis

Abstract Three ponds were treated weekly for 8 wk with the insect growth regulator, SIR-8514, to a concentration of 7 ppb. The diets of mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis Baird and Girard) in the treated ponds were altered significantly from the diets of the fish in the three control (untreated) ponds, but the stomach fullness indices were similar. At the termination of the study, the mosquitofish offspring were more numerous but smaller in the treated ponds. There were no significant differences between control and treated adult fish in growth rates or condition factors.
Production of common enterobacterial antigen by members of the family Enterobacteriaceae.

Nachweis eines allen Enterobakterien gemeinsamen Antigens. Samtliche Stamme, bestehend aus 5 Familien und 12 Genera, erzeugten das Antigen, welches durch passive Haemagglutination, passive Haemolyse und Haemagglutinations-Hemmungsreaktion nachgewiesen werden konnte.
The role of bisphosphonates in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis

The first-generation biphosphonate etidronate is used only experimentally in osteoporosis prevention. Its effects in treating osteoporosis have been studied only in subjects who already have vertebral crush fractures. No reduction in the incidence of fractures in this population as a whole has been established. The suggestion of a more pronounced beneficial effect seen in severely osteoporotic patients treated with bisphosphonates for two years that seems to emerge from a posteriori analysis must be confirmed. The long-term safety of this therapy is currently under study. Subsequent generations of bisphosphonates are still experimental, whether for prevention or treatment.
Production of iturin A by Bacillus amyloliquefaciens suppressing Rhizoctonia solani

Abstract Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain B94 was used as a biocontrol agent to suppress Rhizoctonia solani and other fungal plant pathogens. Three major antifungal compounds were purified from its culture broth, each has an amino acid composition consisting of Asn, Gln, Ser, Pro, and Tyr in a molar ratio of 3:1:1:1:1. Fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (FAB MS/MS) collision induced dissociation (CID) analysis showed that the antifungal compounds were three isomers of iturin A, a cyclic lipopeptide antibiotic produced by Bacillus subtilis . One of the major compounds with a molecular weight of 1042.5533 was identified as iturin A 2 . The peptide backbone of this compound was opened chemically, and the resulting linear peptide partially sequenced using the Edman degradation method. The results confirmed those obtained using FAB MS/MS CID analysis. A new reliable method for isolation and purification of iturin A and related compounds from bacterial broth culture was developed. The CID spectrum of iturin A could be used as a ‘fingerprint’ to identify iturin A in a variety of mixtures.
Interprofessional teaching: An inter-university experience involving pharmacy and nursing students

Abstract Objective The primary objective was to assess the impact an interprofessional experience had on students’ perceptions and knowledge of each others’ scope of practice. A secondary objective was to assess students’ opinions of the experience. Methods The community-based interprofessional team-based learning activity was a two credit-hour elective course offered to pharmacy students in their third professional year. It was designed to include a service learning component for students. Results At the time of assessment, the year-long course had been conducted for a total of three years. A total of 50 students participated in the course. The course included activities that pharmacy students participated in alone as well as activities that included both nursing and pharmacy students. Pre- and post-experience surveys assessed students’ knowledge and perceptions about each profession. Conclusion Overall, the interprofessional experiences offered in this course improved both the pharmacy and nursing students’ perceptions regarding each others’ professions.
Harnessing the Power of Provenance in Archival Description : An Australian Perspective on the Development of the Second Edition of ISAAR(CPF)

SUMMARY The publication in 2004 of the second edition of the International Standard Archival Authority Record (Corporate Bodies, Persons, Families) (ISAAR(CPF)2) signified a growing awareness within the archival profession of the need to standardise the documentation of the context of records creation, a need that extends well beyond the traditional requirements of bibliographic systems for authority control. This article examines, from an Australian perspective, the journey taken by the International Council on Archives Committee on Descriptive Standards in reviewing and revising the 1996 edition of ISAAR(CPF). It places this journey in the context of a generation of Australian innovations associated with the structured documentation of context and provenance, and reflects on possible future directions in relation to standardising the documentation of functions to form a trinity of descriptive entities: records, agents and functions.
Clinical expressions of Helicobacter pylori infection

Helicobacter pylori infection is very common both in the United States and internationally. However, clinical manifestations of this infection vary markedly among different individuals. Apart from gastritis, which may be asymptomatic, patients may develop peptic ulceration or a gastric neoplasm. However, these patients represent a minority of patients infected with H. pylori. This article aims to review the different possible consequences of H. pylori infection.
Dosage and Timing of Anti-TNF-α Antibody Treatment Determine Its Effect on Resistance to Sepsis after Injury

Abstract Antibody against tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) has improved survival in certain models of sepsis, but it remains unproven in clinical studies. In most of the successful animal studies, efficacy has been shown in previously healthy animals subjected to a septic challenge. Patients at risk for sepsis, however, may be ill for some time before the sepsis supervenes. This situation has been described as a “two-hit” model of critical illness. We have developed an animal burn–sepsis model which conforms to this “two-hit” concept. We have quantified macrophage TNF-α production at different times after the burn (first “hit”) and determined the effect of neutralizing antibody against TNF-α during this period on survival after subsequent sepsis (second “hit”). The objective of this study was to determine the role of TNF-α and the effect of neutralizing antibody against TNF-α in a burn–sepsis model. Animals were subjected to a full thickness burn or sham burn.In vitroTNF-α production from cultured lipopolysaccharide-stimulated splenic adherent cells was determined at various time points thereafter by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Separate animals were treated with neutralizing antibody against TNF-α at different time points after the thermal injury, and survival was determined after septic challenge (cecal ligation and puncture) on Day 10 after the burn. TNF-α production from adherent splenocytes was not elevated in the early days after thermal injury, but was significantly enhanced from Day 6 onward compared with sham-burned animals. Nine percent of the burned mice survived septic challenge compared with 69% of the sham-burned control mice (P
Preferences among four species of local browse offered to Colobus guereza kikuyuensis at the Central Park Zoo

The objective of this study was to document the browse preferences of five adult Colobus monkeys (one male and four females, fed a nutritionally sound diet) among four local and readily available temperate browse types at the Central Park Zoo. The four browse species used in part A of the study were nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus), mulberry (Morus alba), Russian olive, (Elacagnus angustifolia), and weeping willow (Salix babylonica). During a second trial (part B), weeping willow was replaced by purpleosier willow (Salix purpurea). The Bradley-Terry categorical model for paired comparisons using the LOGISTIC procedure was used to analyze the data with the SAS System for Windows, version 8.2. Individual preferences and group data were examined. The results of this preference study show that the majority of the Colobus troop preferred browse that was relatively low in fiber fractions. The male's preferences differed from those of the females. Nasturtium, which contained the least amount of lignin, was generally favored by the females but was the male's lowest choice in both trials. Zoo Biol 0:1–8, 2005. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Vitamin D insufficiency in steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome in remission

Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations are the best indicator of vitamin D nutritional status. We measured serum 25(OH)D concentrations in 94 healthy controls and in 41 subjects (aged 4–22 years) with steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome (SSNS) in remission. Children with remitted SSNS had significantly lower 25(OH)D concentrations than healthy controls (median 16.4 ng/ml versus 23.9 ng/ml, P <0.001). In a multivariable logistic regression model, the odds ratios (OR) of vitamin D insufficiency [25(OH)D <20 ng/ml] were independently increased in SSNS subjects [OR 11.2 (95% confidence interval 3.5–36.2)], non-whites [OR 12.9 (4.6–36.2)], older children [OR 1.20 per year (1.06–1.36)], and winter months [OR 6.7 (2.5–18.4)]. Within the SSNS subjects, multiple linear regression determined that serum 25(OH)D concentrations were not associated with SSNS disease characteristics measured in this study, such as duration of disease, number of relapses, cumulative glucocorticoids, and interval since last relapse. In conclusion, children with remitted SSNS have lower serum 25(OH)D concentrations than healthy controls. This difference persisted after adjusting for the potential confounding effects of age, race, season, and milk intake. Children with remitted SSNS may benefit from routine measurement of 25(OH)D, but the clinical significance of low 25(OH)D in this population remains unclear.
Impediments to the discharge planning effort for psychiatric inpatients.

ABSTRACT Objective: This study investigates a methodology to systematically track the effort to overcome impediments to securing needed post-hospital care and support. Methods: 494 consecutive admissions to the Mount Sinai Medical Center were evaluated for the quality of available support resources in the domains of housing, daily activity, and psychiatric treatment using the Mount Sinai Discharge Planning Inventory. On day seven, the same rater recorded the optimal discharge plan for each resource category and those impediment codes that were likely to interfere with attaining the desired resource. On discharge, the rater recorded the actual resources obtained for the patient, and if the plan did not meet the patient's needs, an impediment code was used to explain why the sub-optimal “discharge fit” was not secured. Results: Having an impediment in any of the three resource categories (housing, daily activities, psychiatric treatment services) at day 7 was predictive of a sub-optimal discharge plan. Of a...
Linear multivariable control and the development of l/sub 1/ optimal control

This paper surveys some of the developments of the last three decades in linear multivariable control theory and conclude with the most recent design framework; robust l/sub 1/ optimal control theory. >
Non-coding RNA regulation of synaptic plasticity and memory: implications for aging.

Advancing age is associated with the loss of cognitive ability and vulnerability to debilitating mental diseases. Although much is known about the development of cognitive processes in the brain, the study of the molecular mechanisms governing memory decline with aging is still in its infancy. Recently, it has become apparent that most of the human genome is transcribed into non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) rather than protein-coding mRNAs. Multiple types of ncRNAs are enriched in the central nervous system, and this large group of molecules may regulate the molecular complexity of the brain, its neurons, and synapses. Here, we review the current knowledge on the role of ncRNAs in synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory in the broader context of the aging brain and associated memory loss. We also discuss future directions to study the role of ncRNAs in the aging process.
Seizing Flowers in Spenser's Bower and Garden1

“Seizing Flowers in Spenser's Bower and Garden” examines the role of the carpe diem topos and its implied materialism in Spenser's two renowned green places: the Bower of Bliss and the Garden of Adonis. Beginning with the Bower of Bliss, this essay observes the uncanny fact that the overheard invitation to “present pleasure chuse” makes no epistemological sense: since things do not actually decay or die in the Bower, the carpe diem imperative is essentially meaningless. That changes, however, when Guyon—responding to its provocative invitation—introduces time and death into the Bower, thereby becoming an agent of the very materialism he ostensibly reviles. Moreover, this materialism, along with the language of carpe diem, reappears in the Garden of Adonis: undermining the extent to which the Garden can function as the authentic or wholesome place against which the Bower can be compared (or for which it must be abandoned). In fact, both places are ultimately ruled—in part due to Guyon's actions—by the forces of “wicked Time.”
Effect of particle identity on the observed impact parameter dependence of inner-shell ionization in symmetric heavy-ion collisions

Abstract The decrease in K-shell ionization probability at small impact parameters predicted by a molecular promotion model with rotational coupling cannot be unambigously tested by experiment if the target and projectile are indistinguishable.
Gas chromatographic—mass spectrometric determination of ethambutol in human plasma

Abstract A quantitative gas chromatographic—mass spectrometric assay has been developed for the determination of ethambutol (EMB) in human plasma. Plasma samples were taken from a patient after oral administration of EMB (with proven tuberculosis infection). Deuterated EMB and a non-deuterated analogue of EMB were synthesized and used as internal standards in this procedure; both gave excellent agreement in the analysis. The derivatizing agent used was trifluoroacetic anhydride (TFAA) and quantitative derivatization was complete in one hour, forming EMB-(TFA). Selective ion monitoring was utilized to monitor the gas chromatographic effluent. Ions were generated by electron impact at 70 eV. The limit of detection was 36 ng EMB per ml plasma. This method is compared with the electron-capture gas chromatographic procedure of Lee and Benet.
An algorithm for solving distributed termination problem

Abstract A spanning tree based termination detection algorithm for solving distributed termination problem is given along with its correctness proof. In this algorithm, the root process, apart from assuming the additional responsibility of termination detection, is treated like any other process of the distributed program. The root process initiates detection-message wave only after getting sufficient evidence in support of termination detection condition from each of its children which in turn obtain the supporting information from their own respective children, if any. The detection-message wave either gets purged on the way or concludes termination on reaching back the root process.
Mojave toxin: rapid purification, heterogeneity and resistance to denaturation by urea

This report establishes that purified Mojave toxin prepared from the snake venom of Crotalus scutulatus scutulatus contains multiple heterogeneous dimers (isoforms) differing slightly in isoelectric points. This conclusion is based upon chromatographic, immunological, sodium dodecyl sulfate--polyacrylamide gel electrophoretic and polyacrylamide isoelectric focusing experiments. The Mojave toxin-related proteins were rapidly purified from venom via a single chromatography step. Generation of Mojave toxin-related proteins from isolated subunits and immunoblots of these proteins subsequent to electrophoretic separation demonstrate that each of the proteins consists of acidic and phospholipase basic subunits. The analysis of venom in narrow range polyacrylamide isoelectric focusing gels at varying concentrations of urea, in conjunction with immunoblots utilizing antibodies specific to the basic subunit, demonstrates that the isoforms of Mojave toxin are native and not artifacts from isolation procedures. Analyses of venoms from Crotalus scutulatus scutulatus individuals indicate that each snake produces multiple isoforms of the neurotoxin. Additionally, the same predominant isoform of Mojave toxin is present in both individual and commercial venoms. The heterogeneity of the Mojave toxin-related proteins is largely due to differences in the acidic subunits and some of the forms may reflect post-translational processing of the protein. The Mojave toxin-related proteins demonstrate a resistance to urea denaturation by characteristically entering and focusing in polyacrylamide isoelectric focusing gels containing 0-6 M urea, but dissociating to constituent subunits in 8 M urea. Experimental evidence suggest that salt bridges may be important in stabilization of the Mojave toxin complex.
Neuronal transfection in brain slices using particle-mediated gene transfer

Difficulties in neuronal transfection continue to restrict the applicability of molecular approaches to neurobiology. Conventional transfection techniques have been of limited effectiveness, particularly in intact neural tissues. Viral vectors effectively transfect neurons both in vitro and in vivo but are labor intensive to construct, difficult to control, and often compromise cell viability. We describe here an alternative strategy using particle-mediated gene transfer for the transfection of neurons and glia in intact brain slices. This approach is efficient, reliable, and does not require advanced molecular biological facilities for its application.
Utility scaling of intracranial reinforcement duration

Abstract The purpose of the investigation was to apply signal detection theory to the utility scaling of train duration, a parameter of intracranial self-stimulation. Each of the four Charles River rats used was unilaterally implanted with bipolar stainless steel electrodes directed at the medial forebrain bundle. Prior to testing, the animals were trained in a two-choice paradigm to discriminate for brain stimulation between high and low frequency tones. Train duration utility functions were generated with each rat by systematically changing the reinforcement duration associated with the two classes of correct responses over a series of payoff matrices and observing corresponding shifts in response bias, the measure of relative reinforcement strength. Incorrect responses were followed by uniform short time outs. Least squares analysis found that negatively accelerating power functions (correlation coefficients were significant, p
Poor but Proud: Alabama's Poor Whites

The phrase "poor but proud" aptly describes many white Alabamians who settled the state and persisted through time. During the antebellum years, poor whites developed a distinctive culture on the perlphery of the cotton belt. As herdsmen, subsistence farmers, mill workers, and miners, they flourished in a society more renowned for its two-class division of planters and slaves. The New Deal era and the advent of World War II broke the long downward spiral of poverty and afforded new opportunities for upward mobility. Wayne Flynt addresses the life experiences of poor whites through their occupations, society, and culture. He explores their family structure, music, religion, folklore, crafts, and politics and describes their attempts to resolve their own problems through labor unions and political movements. He reveals that many of our stereotypes about poor whites are wildly exaggerated; few were derelicts or "white trash." Even though racism, emotionalism, and a penchant for violence were possible among poor whites, most bore their troubles with dignity and self-respect, working hard to eventually lift themselves out of poverty. First published in 1989 by The University of Alabama Press, Poor but Proud was met with critical acclaim and awarded the 1990 Lillian Smith prize in nonfiction, as well as being named a CHOICE Outstanding Academic Book. This new paperback version will make the classic work available for general readers, bookstores, and classrooms.
Ultrafiltration as speciation tool for paraquat in humic acids suspensions : effects of solution composition on membrane properties

Abstract Ultrafiltration of paraquat aqueous solutions using YM2 Amicon membranes was investigated as speciation tool in laboratory systems pertaining to freshwaters and soil solutions. The effect of solution composition on the passage of paraquat through these membranes and their behavior towards metal ions such as copper, calcium and magnesium was studied. Ultrafiltration of mixed solutions containing all four cations including paraquat showed no discernible membranes effects in the concentration range of 1 × 10−6 to 1 × 10−4 molar. The presence of high concentrations (0/01–0.1 M) of electrolytes such as NaCl and NaNO3 in the ultrafiltration cell resulted in partial retention of paraquat by YM2 membranes.
Der zeitliche Verlauf der Muskelkontraktion

Es erweist sich als zweckmasig, die Muskelkontraktion als eine vorubergehende Storung im dynamischen Gleichgewicht einer komplizierten Serie von Ketten­reaktionen zu betrachten, von denen jede ihre eigene Geschwindigkeitskonstante besitzt (einzelne eine hohe, andere eine niedere); jede dieser Geschwindigkeits­konstanten steigt mit der Temperatur (die eine rascher, die andere langsamer), jede wird durch Veranderungen der experimentellen Bedingungen in einer oder der anderen Weise beeinflust, und die Produkte jeder einzelnen Reaktion losen die nachste Reaktion aus, verandern sie oder nehmen an ihr Teil. Der Ausdruck „Reaktion“ wird hier im allgemeinsten Sinne des Wortes gebraucht und umfast alle mit mesbarer Geschwindigkeit ablaufenden Vorgange. Die meisten, wenn nicht alle diese Vorgange oder Reaktionen, hangen von der mikroskopischen oder ultramikroskopischen Struktur und Organisation der Muskelfasern ab. Da aber die Gleichgewichte im Muskel dynamisch sind, hangt das Verhalten des gesamten Systems in erster Linie vom Zeitfaktor ab.
Introgression and dispersal among spotted owl (Strix occidentalis) subspecies.

Population genetics plays an increasingly important role in the conservation and management of declining species, particularly for defining taxonomic units. Subspecies are recognized by several conservation organizations and countries and receive legal protection under the US Endangered Species Act (ESA). Two subspecies of spotted owls, northern (Strix occidentalis caurina) and Mexican (S. o. lucida) spotted owls, are ESA-listed as threatened, but the California (S. o. occidentalis) spotted owl is not listed. Thus, determining the boundaries of these subspecies is critical for effective enforcement of the ESA. We tested the validity of previously recognized spotted owl subspecies by analysing 394 spotted owls at 10 microsatellite loci. We also tested whether northern and California spotted owls hybridize as suggested by previous mitochondrial DNA studies. Our results supported current recognition of three subspecies. We also found bi-directional hybridization and dispersal between northern and California spotted owls centered in southern Oregon and northern California. Surprisingly, we also detected introgression of Mexican spotted owls into the range of northern spotted owls, primarily in the northern part of the subspecies’ range in Washington, indicating long-distance dispersal of Mexican spotted owls. We conclude with a discussion of the conservation implications of our study.
Slip on the San Andreas fault in central California from alinement array surveys

Lines of monuments ranging between 30 and 200 meters (m) in length that extend across the traces of several strike-slip faults in California have been surveyed periodically by the U.S. Geological Survey to determine local slip rates, widths of slip zones, and patterns of near-field deformation. Ten monument lines, or alinement arrays, were established during the years 1966 to 1968 along a 180-km-long segment of the San Andreas fault in central California from Cholame Valley northwestward to Watsonville. Data from subsequent alinement array surveys and from other sources show that this segment of the fault can be partitioned into three distinct sections. A 55-km-long central section northeast of King City shows the highest rates of fault creep observed (∼32 mm/yr), essentially matching the long-term slip rate measured geodetically across the entire fault system. The two sections flanking the central section show only partial strain release and are characterized by regional decreases in creep rates outward toward the limits of surface ruptures associated with the great 1857 and 1906 earthquakes. The data show that creep does not occur at present along the zones of surface rupture associated with the two great historic earthquakes, except for minor amounts at scattered sites along the 1906 break. The fall-off in creep rate from the ends of the central section outward along the flanking sections shown by alinement array data is characterized by distinct asymmetry: the gradient of outward creep rate decline along the northwest section is only about half that of the southeast section, implying a similar contrast in rates of strain accumulation. The northwest section characteristically produces frequent microearthquakes and occasional moderate earthquakes as large as magnitude 5 1 4 , while the southeast section is characterized by comparatively lower background seismicity and less frequent moderate shocks which may, however, be as great as magnitude 5 3 4 .
Pyloric obstruction in a dog related to a gastrotomy incision closed with polypropylene.

A five-year-old male, West Highland terrier was treated for a gastrointestinal foreign body via a gastrotomy incision and enterotomies. The dog was asymptomatic for several months but was eventually re-presented because of vomiting. Endoscopic and surgical evaluation confirmed a large mass within the pyloric canal that probably resulted from a reaction to the polypropylene suture material used to close the original gastrotomy incision. The mass was excised via a Y-U pyloroplasty incision and the dog has been free of vomiting for over a year.
On Bounds And Approximating Weighted Distributions By Exponential Distributions

In this article, we obtain error bounds for exponential approximations to the classes of weighted residual and equilibrium lifetime distributions with monotone weight functions. These bounds are obtained for the class of distributions with increasing (decreasing) hazard rate and mean residual life functions.
Improving patient satisfaction by adding a physician in triage

Background: The physician in triage (PIT) model has been proposed as a process improvement to help increase efficiency in the Emergency Department setting. However, its effect on patient satisfaction has not been well established. Methods: An interventional study comparing patient satisfaction scores for the 6-month period before and after implementation of a physician in triage model. In our system an additional attending physician was assigned to triage from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. daily. Outcome measures were mean scores obtained from respondents to Press Ganey® patient satisfaction surveys for selected questions most likely to be impacted by PIT implementation and those included in the physician section of the survey. Results: Five hundred and eight respondents seen in the six months before the initiation of the PIT team and 458 respondents in the six months after the system change were included in the study. Improvement was noted in the absolute Press Ganey® scores in the Post-PIT time period across all questions analyzed with statistically significant differences noted for 8 of the 10 questions studied. Conclusions: Although seemingly small there was a statistically significant improvement in the absolute patient satisfaction scores after adding a physician in triage. Because small gains in absolute scores can result in large improve - ments on the percentile rank when using Press Ganey® surveys, physician in triage may be of significant benefit to overall patient satisfaction.
Trapping Iron Oxide into Hollow Gold Nanoparticles.

Synthesis of the core/shell-structured Fe3O4/Au nanoparticles by trapping Fe3O4 inside hollow Au nanoparticles is described. The produced composite nanoparticles are strongly magnetic with their surface plasmon resonance peaks in the near infrared region (wavelength from 700 to 800 nm), combining desirable magnetic and plasmonic properties into one nanoparticle. They are particularly suitable for in vivo diagnostic and therapeutic applications. The intact Au surface provides convenient anchorage sites for attachment of targeting molecules, and the particles can be activated by both near infrared lights and magnetic fields. As more and more hollow nanoparticles become available, this synthetic method would find general applications in the fabrication of core–shell multifunctional nanostructures.