cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fast, All-Purpose State Storage

Existing techniques for approximate storage of visited states in a model checker are too special-purpose and too DRAM-intensive. Bitstate hashing, based on Bloom filters, is good for exploring most of very large state spaces, and hash compaction is good for high-assurance verification of more tractable problems. We describe a scheme that is good at both, because it adapts at run time to the number of states visited. It does this within a fixed memory space and with remarkable speed and accuracy. In many cases, it is faster than existing techniques, because it only ever requires one random access to main memory per operation; existing techniques require several to have good accuracy. Adapting to accommodate more states happens in place using streaming access to memory; traditional rehashing would require extra space, random memory accesses, and hash computation. The structure can also incorporate search stack matching for partial-order reductions, saving the need for extra resources dedicated to an additional structure. Our scheme is wellsuited for a future in which random accesses to memory are more of a limiting factor than the size of memory.
An efficient adaptive sequential procedure for detecting targets

Wald's sequential probability ratio test (SPRT) is known to be optimal for simple hypotheses. However, the hypotheses in target detection applications are usually composite, because, as a rule, the models are only partially known. A major method traditionally used for testing composite hypotheses is based on a generalized likelihood ratio. However, the generalized SPRT suffers from a crucial drawback - it is very difficult to select thresholds in order to guarantee prescribed levels of false alarms and missed detections. We consider an adaptive approach that allows us to overcome this problem. At each stage, unknown parameters are replaced with an estimator which is based on previous observations, but not on the current observation. It is shown that the adaptive test is uniformly asymptotically optimal in the sense that it minimizes the average sample size for all parameter values when probabilities of errors are small. The general results are applied to the problem of detecting a target with unknown intensity in clutter with unknown variance.
Adsorption of 3H-Fatty Acid Esters of Streptococcal Groups A and E Cell Wall Polysaccharide Antigens by Red Blood Cells and Their Effect on Hemagglutination

The streptococcal group A and E cell wall polysaccharide (PS) antigens were esterified under identical conditions with four fatty acid chlorides (lauroyl, myristoyl, palmitoyl, and stearoyl), varying from 12 to 18 carbon atoms. With group A PS, it was shown that the four resulting esters varied in their ability to sensitize red blood cells (RBC) to agglutination in the presence of specific antiserum. The most active was palmitoyl (16C) followed by myristoyl (14C). The least active was the lauroyl ester (12C). One-tenth as much palmitoyl ester was required as stearoyl group A PS ester. Such variation in the ability to sensitize RBC was not demonstrated with the group E esters, with the exception of the lauroyl ester which was the least active. Removal of N-acetylglucosamine from the esterified and the nonesterified group A PS by enzyme action resulted in a significant loss of serological activity of both antigens. No appreciable difference in the rate or total loss of activity was found in either case. It was demonstrated that both tritium-labeled stearic and palmitic acids and their respective PS esters were adsorbed in significant amounts to RBC. The results indicate that the esterified antigens were adsorbed to the RBC because of the presence of the fatty acid in the PS ester. Attempts to block the receptor sites on the red cell by presensitizing the cells with fatty acid were negative. Likewise, the adsorbed ester did not prevent the uptake of fatty acid at the levels tested. Tritium-labeled esterified group A PS and group E PS were used to show that the amount of antigen required to produce maximal agglutination was the same when cells from the same individual were used, whereas this was not the case when cells from different individuals were used. The amount of antigen required to produce maximal agglutination varied from one batch of sheep RBC to another. Once the optimal concentration of antigen was reached, any additional adsorption did not increase the titer of agglutination.
Personality Characteristics and Personal History Data of Successful and Less Successful Executives

From a population of 150 executives employed by a medium-sized utilities company, 30 highly successful and 30 less successful executives were selected on the basis of (1) salary level, (2) company job title, (3) job number as listed in the Hayes salary survey, and (4) appraisal performance ratings. Age and length of service were controlled. The Edwards Personal Preference Schedule, the California Psychological Inventory, and a 179-item biographical information blank were administered to all 60 Ss. Five of the 15 scales on the EPPS and 10 of the 18 scales on the CPI significantly discriminated successful and less successful executives. A total of 110 of the 179 BIB items had one or more options that significantly differentiated the two executive groups.
Introduction to modeling and simulations of plutonium aging

The U.S. Government’s right to retain a non-exclusive, royalty-free license in and to any copyright is acknowledged.
School Motivation Analysis Test Characteristics of Emotionally Disturbed Adolescents

During more than 20 years of factor analytic study, Cattell identified three sources of variance in paper-and-pencil tests of personality (Cattell, Radcliffe, & Sweney, 1963). The 16 Personality Factor, the Culture Fair Intelligence Test and the Motivation Analysis Test resulted from ch~s effort. The School Motivation Analysis Test is a recent downward extension of the MAT to accommodate 12- to 17-yr.-old Ss. The rest has been used as a predictor of adjustment in normals and of academic success in normals and delinquents (Buros, 1972). It yields an "Unintegrated" (U) score and an "Integrated" (I) score reflecting the unconscious and the conscious aspects respectively of each of 10 factors. Six of the factors measure presumed genetic drives and 4 measure learned drives. As a part of a more comprehensive research program, the test was given to 35 adolescents with "emotional problems" who were consecutively referred by state and private agencies to a voluntary, family-oriented residential treatment program for adolescents. Mean scores on 8 scales were within the 4.5-6.5 normal range, and on 6 scales the I exceeded the U by .4 or more, indicating adequate adjusunent in these areas. On the 2 remaining scales, 3 scores deviated significantly from the normal range; the group scored significantly high on Assertiveness-U (M = 6.8, p < ,005) and Self-sentiment-I (M =
Physical network models.

We develop a new framework for inferring models of transcriptional regulation. The models, which we call physical network models, are annotated molecular interaction graphs. The attributes in the model correspond to verifiable properties of the underlying biological system such as the existence of protein–protein and protein–DNA interactions, the directionality of signal transduction in protein–protein interactions, as well as signs of the immediate effects of these interactions. Possible configurations of these variables are constrained by the available data sources. Some of the data sources, such as factor-binding data, involve measurements that are directly tied to the variables in the model. Other sources, such as gene knock-outs, are functional in nature and provide only indirect evidence about the variables. We associate each observed knock-out effect in the deletion mutant data with a set of causal paths (molecular cascades) that could in principle explain the effect, resulting in aggregate constra...
Born expansion to all orders for the heterotic string

Abstract A perturbation expansion to all orders in loops is developed for the E 8 ⊗ E 8 heterotic string. A light-cone gauge lagrangian is presented and applied within the functional-integral formalism of Mandelstam to compute scattering amplitudes. Unitarity is manifest and the final answer is Lorentz invariant. It is shown that the determinant arising from the functional integration associated with the compactified degrees is analytic. This along with its modular properties, gives a unique specification of it up to an overall moduli-independent factor.
Low-attenuation lesions in the middlecranial fossa: Differential diagnosis

The reliability of cranial computed tomography (CT) in detecting a broad range of intracerebral disorders has been well established (1) and its complementary role with other neuroradiologic procedures has been documented (2). Some attempts at inferring specific histologic diagnosis from static CT scans have been made (3, 4). However, other investigators have demonstrated that it is difficult to separate cystic from noncystic, benign from malignant, and neoplastic from non-neoplastic lesions by absorption coefficients alone (5, 6). While initial studies utilizing dynamic CT scanning indicate that patterns of contrast accumulation may be helpful in distinguishing enhancing cerebral lesions (7–16), the differential diagnosis of the low-attenuation lesion remains difficult (17). We present a series of hypodense lesions in the middle cranial fossa that demonstrate a broad range of pathologic entities. Their CT features, differential diagnosis, and pathologic correlation are discussed.
Insulinlike growth factor 1 (IGF-1) reduces gut atrophy and bacterial translocation after severe burn injury

• Bacterial translocation after severe burns is associated with gut mucosal atrophy and increased mucosal permeability. Insulinlike growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels are low after trauma and do not respond to growth hormone treatment. Since IGF-1 receptors have been demonstrated in gut mucosa, we proposed that treatment with IGF-1 would reduce mucosal atrophy and bacterial translocation. Rats received 50% total body surface area full-thickness burn or sham burn. They were treated with a continuous, subcutaneous infusion of either IGF-1 (≈3 mg/kg per day) or placebo (0.01 mol of acetate) for up to 5 days after receiving the burn. The mesenteric lymph node and liver were cultured for gram-negative bacteria. The small intestinal mucosa was scraped, weighed, and analyzed for DNA and protein content. Treatment with IGF-1 improved body weight, spleen weight, and gut mucosal weight. It stimulated mucosal DNA and protein content and reduced the incidence of bacterial translocation to the mesenteric lymph node from 89% to 30%. Insulinlike growth factor may reduce gut barrier failure by decreasing mucosal atrophy and subsequent barrier failure. In addition to its general anabolic effects, recombinant human IGF-1 may improve gut mucosal function and reduce infectious morbidity in severely traumatized or septic patients by reducing gut atrophy and reducing bacterial translocation. ( Arch Surg . 1993;128:47-54)
Effect of albuterol nebulization on peripheral WBC counts

The white blood cell (WBC) count and neutrophil count are commonly used in clinical decision making. It has been established that parenterally administered beta-adrenergic agents will increase the values of both of these measurements as a result of demargination. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether the same phenomenon occurs when the beta-adrenergic agent albuterol is administered by inhalation. This 3-month study was performed in a prospective, nonblinded manner with each patient serving as their own control, in an urban medical center emergency department (ED). All patients 18 to 55 years of age with an established diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or asthma who were experiencing an exacerbation of their disease that did not appear life threatening were entered onto the study. Patients were excluded if they were immunocompromised, on steroids, or had been seen in the last 2 weeks in the ED. A total of 28 patients were entered in a consecutive volunteer pattern. On presentation to the ED, patients had a baseline complete blood cell (CBC) count with differential obtained. They then were given a small volume nebulization treatment with 0.5 mL of albuterol (2.5 mg) in 3 mL of normal saline during a 15-minute period. A repeat CBC with differential was performed 30 minutes after completion of the treatment. Three patients did not get neutrophil counts recorded. All results are noted as the mean +/- one standard deviation. The WBC count (in 1,000) before (mean, 10.33 +/- 3.48) and after (mean, 10.66 +/- 4.02) albuterol were compared using the two-tailed paired t test.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Say please: The effect of the word "please" in compliance-seeking requests

This study reports the results of an experiment examining whether presenting a request that included the word "please" would facilitate greater compliance than would a request that did not include the word please. We hypothesized that the plead request (incorporating the word please) would elicit higher rates of compliance than would a nonplead request. Participants consisted of 165 male and 139 female undergraduates, aged 18-24, from a private, comprehensive university in the Midwest of the USA. Participants were surveyed by 8 callers, trained to uniformly verbalize the requests for compliance. Results showed that a greater proportion of participants in the nonplead condition complied than did in the plead condition ( χ 2 = 6.432, df = 1, p < 0.05). The implications of this analysis are discussed.
Vertical migration of Haemonchus contortus infective larvae on Cynodon dactylon and Paspalum notatum pastures in response to climatic conditions.

Observations were made on vertical migration patterns of Haemonchus contortus infective larvae on Cynodon dactylon (bermudagrass) and Paspalum notatum (bahiagrass) pastures under summer climatic conditions typical of East Texas. Ten thousand H. contortus infective larvae (L3) were introduced to 100 cm(2) subplots of each pasture species within a plot area of 1m(2). Subplots were inoculated with larvae by applying them in an aqueous medium to the soil or mat beneath the vegetation. Herbage from the inoculated areas was harvested on 5 sampling days over a span of 21 days. L3 recoveries were observed and recorded each day on four herbage strata viz. 0-5, 5-10, 10-20 and >20 cm from ground level. The log transformed larval recovery data were analyzed for effect of day, stratum, and day x stratum interaction for each grass species during two separate experimental periods. Precipitation, relative humidity and temperature during the study were subjected to correlation and multiple regression analyses with the larval counts. Significant (P or=0.93) between rainfall and total average daily larval counts was apparent. The multiple regression analysis did not show significant results for any of the climatic factors tested. This study showed that the H. contortus infective larvae can survive beyond 21 days in the soil and infest pasture grasses when the climatic conditions are favorable. Avoiding use of H. contortus contaminated pasturelands in summer at the onset of rainfall following a dry spell may effectively reduce nematode loads in susceptible farm animals. Additional studies should focus on factors affecting long term L3 survivability, migrational pattern on these and other plant species and the relationship between climatic factors and larval migration patterns throughout the year. Total larval recovery of H. contortus in this study was greater in bahiagrass than bermudagrass. While the design of this study did not allow for testing one pasture species against another, studies with potted plants would allow for some valid comparisons. Soil characteristics may also play a role in L3 survival and subsequent migration.
Involvement of nuclei in the hypothalamus in cardiac sympathoexcitatory reflexes in cats.

Abstract The hypothalamus is considered to be an important area in the central regulation of cardiovascular function. However, its role in processing excitatory cardiovascular reflexes induced by stimulation of cardiac afferents has not been established. In the present study, using c-Fos immunoreactivity, we located neurons in the hypothalamus activated by inputs from cardiac sympathetic afferents. Following bilateral barodenervation and cervical vagotomy in anesthetized cats, bradykinin (BK, 1–10 μg, in 0.1 ml; n=7) was applied repetitively (6×, every 20 min) to the anterior epicardial surface of the left ventricle. This chemical stimulation caused consistent excitatory cardiovascular reflexes characterized by increases in blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR), while the vehicle for BK (0.9% saline, n=6) produced no such responses. Compared to control cats, c-Fos immunoreactive cells were significantly increased (P
Electron-impact ionization detection of scopolamine by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry in rat plasma and brain.

Abstract Scopolamine, a muscarinic receptor antagonist, was measured in rat plasma and brain using gas chromatography—mass spectrometry with electron-impact ionization detection. Extracted scopolamine was either directly derivatized or first hydrolyzed to scopine, then derivatized with heptafluorobutyric anhydride, separated on a capillary column and quantified by mass fragmentography. Electron-impact ionization produced a common fragment peak at m z 138 that was monitored along with trideuterated scopolamine, an internal standard ( m z 141). The method can be used to measure scopolamine concentrations of 2 ng/ml in rat plasma and 20 ng/g in rat brain.
For me, programming is ...

Fun, interesting, hard, rewarding, and challenging: these are the most frequent responses of 697 students from five institutions at the end of a first programming course. Student experience with introductory programming courses is of interest to the computing education community, especially due to continued decreases in enrollments in computing degree programs. In this study, we explore one direct approach to document students' initial attitudinal experiences with programming by asking them to complete an open-ended question at the end of a first programming course. Based on content-analysis of students' responses, we find that nearly 50% of responses were positive in nature, there is significant difference in the responses of majors and non-majors, and that response characteristics correlate to earned grade in the course. We present preliminary, but inconclusive evidence on the impact of context (e.g., gaming or media computation) in a first programming course. Finally, we propose a multiple-choice question based on the most common student responses for large-scale deployment in computing courses and identify key contextual information that will inform future analysis of that data.
Differences in the relationships between coronary blood flow and myocardial clearance of isotopes of potassium, rubidium, and cesium.

Abstract Since isotopes of K, Rb, and Cs reach high concentration in the myocardium following their intravenous injection, any of the aforementioned isotopes can be used to determine regional myocardial clearance by employing external counting techniques. It has been established by previous studies that the rate at which Rb 86 is cleared from the arterial blood is closely related to the rate of coronary blood flow. K 42 and Cs 131 offer the advantage of reduced radiation load when used in man. Therefore, the relationship between the rate of coronary blood flow and the rate of myocardial clearance of K 42 and Cs 134 was determined in dogs, and compared to the simultaneous results obtained with Rb 86 . An average of 71 per cent of the K 42 in arterial blood was removed by the myocardium during one circulation, while 65 per cent of the Rb 86 was extracted. Only 22 per cent of the Cs 134 entered the myocardium under the same conditions. As a result, Cs 134 clearance was substantially less reliable than K 42 or Rb 86 clearance as an index of the rate of coronary blood flow.
Two forms of parathyroid hormone-like adenylate cyclase-stimulating protein derived from tumors associated with humoral hypercalcemia of malignancy

Tumors associated with humoral hypercalcemia of malignancy (HHM) contain parathyroid hormone-like adenylate cyclase-stimulating proteins (hACSPs). We previously purified a 17,000 MW hACSP from an HHM-associated breast carcinoma. This report describes the characterization of hACSPs from three additional HHM-associated tumors: two typical HHM-associated tumors (squamous carcinomas) and a third unusual tumor type (pheochromocytoma). Each tumor was extracted in acid-urea/ethanol-sodium chloride, and adenylate cyclase-stimulating activity (ACSA) was examined following reverse-phase and size-exclusion HPLC and isoelectric focusing. Each tumor contained a high molecular weight form of ACSA which co-eluted with the 17,000 molecular weight breast carcinoma hACSP in each of the three separation procedures. Each also contained a lower molecular weight form(s) of ACSA (6,000-9,000 molecular weight). Both forms were inhibited by Nle8,18Tyr34bPTH(3-34) amide. The high molecular weight form was not changed to the lower molecular weight form by a reducing agent. Some HHM-associated tumors contain two forms of hACSP, one with a molecular weight of 17,000 and another with a molecular weight of 6,000-9,000, which appears to be an amino-terminal cleavage product of the larger protein.
The use of formal and informal expert judgments when interpreting data for performance assessments

This paper discusses the general process by which data and information are compiled and used for defining modeling parameters. These modeling parameters are input for the mathematical models that are used in performance assessments of the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP), near Carlsbad, NM, which is designed to safely manage, store, and dispose of transuranic radioactive wastes. The physical and temporal scales, and the difficulty of obtaining measurements in geologic media make interpretation of measured data, including the difference between laboratory experiment scale and repository scale, important tasks. In most instances, standard scientific practices can ensure consistency of data use. To illustrate this point, an example is provided of the interpretation of field measurements of intrinsic permeability for use in computational models using the bootstrap technique. In some cases, sufficient information can never be collected, interpretation of the information is controversial, or information from diverse disciplines must be used. A procedure that formalizes the standard scientific practices under these conditions has been developed. An example is provided of how this procedure has been applied in eliciting expert judgments on markers to deter inadvertant human intrusion into the WIPP.
Texture analysis of pulmonary parenchyma in normal and emphysematous lung

Tissue characterization using texture analysis is gaining increasing importance in medical imaging. We present a completely automated method for discriminating between normal and emphysematous regions from CT images. This method involves extracting seventeen features which are based on statistical, hybrid and fractal texture models. The best subset of features is derived from the training set using the divergence technique. A minimum distance classifier is used to classify the samples into one of the two classes--normal and emphysema. Sensitivity and specificity and accuracy values achieved were 80% or greater in most cases proving that texture analysis holds great promise in identifying emphysema.
Attenuation of Cerebral Vasospasm After Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in Mice Overexpressing Extracellular Superoxide Dismutase

Background and Purpose— Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) increases production of vascular extracellular superoxide anion (·O2−). We examined whether overexpression of murine extracellular superoxide dismutase (EC-SOD) alters SAH-induced cerebral vasospasm, oxidative stress, and neurological outcome. Methods— Mice exhibiting a 2-fold increase in vascular EC-SOD and wild-type (WT) littermates were subjected to sham surgery or SAH by perforation of the right anterior cerebral artery. Neurological deficits were scored 72 hours later. Middle cerebral artery (MCA) diameter was measured or immunohistochemically stained for nitrotyrosine. Results— MCA diameter (mean±SD) was greater in EC-SOD versus WT mice after SAH but not sham surgery (EC-SOD SAH=56±10 μm; WT SAH=38±13 μm [P<0.01]; EC-SOD sham=99±16 μm; WT sham=100±15 μm). SAH decreased median (range) neurological score (scoring scale, 9 to 39; no deficit=39) versus shams, but there was no difference between EC-SOD and WT groups (EC-SOD SAH=26 [23 to 30]; WT SAH=2...
Clinical utility of stent cytology for the diagnosis of pancreaticobiliary neoplasms.

Abstract Objective ERCP is frequently the technique of choice for the diagnosis and palliative treatment of pancreaticobiliary neoplasms. The sensitivity of tissue sampling techniques has been disappointing. Two small series have reported a high diagnostic yield from cytological examination of cellular debris from removed biliary stents. The aim of this study was to determine the clinical utility of stent cytology for the diagnosis of biliary and pancreatic neoplasia. Methods Patients who had biliary or pancreatic stents removed at ERCP and evaluated cytologically were the subjects of this study. Stents were scraped and washed, and the cellular debris was examined cytologically and recorded as positive, atypical, or negative. Patient demographics, ductal stricture, and stent characteristics were recorded. Results Between January, 1994 and January, 2001 a total of 126 biliary stents from 101 patients (61 male, 40 female, mean age 62 yr) and 29 pancreatic stents from 19 patients (seven male, 12 female, mean age 58 yr) were examined. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of biliary and pancreatic stents for the diagnosis of neoplasia were: 11%, 100%, 100%, 53%, and 25%, 100%, 100%, 77.8%, respectively. The sensitivity improved slightly if all degrees of atypia were considered positive for neoplasia. The mean duration of stent placement was 93.6 days for biliary stents and 43.5 days for pancreatic stents. Conclusions Biliary and pancreatic stent cytology has limited clinical utility in the diagnosis of pancreaticobiliary neoplasia, owing to poor sensitivity. In addition, the time lag between stent placement and removal for cytologic examination further limits its contribution to patient management.
Towards a rule model for self-adaptive software

Most self-adaptive software use rules explicitly or implicitly to decide how to react to monitored events. Meanwhile, rules are usually scattered in different procedures, which makes procedures more complex. This paper proposes a Rule Model, which is used to extract scattered rules from different procedures, so as to enhance the self-adaptive ability of software. The paper presents what is Rule Model, including: three key concepts (event, parameter, and rule), hierarchical organization, role in application, and XML-based representation. The paper also introduces how to map declarative rules inside one deployable application to executable rules inside one rule engine, based on one J2EE-compliant application server.
Intragastric infusion of denatonium conditions flavor aversions and delays gastric emptying in rodents

Because most naturally occurring toxins taste bitter to humans, any mechanism that reduces the rate at which bitter substances are ingested and digested should be adaptive. Based on the recent discovery of T2R bitter taste receptors in the gastrointestinal tract of rodents, we asked whether intragastric (IG) infusion of denatonium (a ligand for T2R receptors) would condition a flavor aversion and/or delay gastric emptying. Four experiments tested for post-oral responses to denatonium in rodents. First, Sprague-Dawley rats were trained to associate intake of a flavored solution (the CS+) with IG denatonium infusions, and intake of a different-flavored solution (the CS−) with IG water infusions during 30 min/day sessions. The rats acquired an aversion to the CS+ flavor when it was paired with IG infusions of 10 mM (but not 2.5 mM) denatonium. Intragastric infusions of 10 mM denatonium also delayed gastric emptying of food in the same rats. Second, we asked how long it took for rats to suppress their drinking while being infused IG with 10 mM denatonium. Rats drinking a palatable solution paired with IG infusions of 10 mM denatonium suppressed their licking within 6 min, as compared to rats infused IG with water. Third, we trained C57BL/6J (B6) mice 24 h/day to associate a CS+ flavor paired with IG infusions of 12 mM denatonium (diluted to 6 mM by orally consumed CS+). Like rats, the mice acquired a robust aversion to the CS+ flavor when it was paired with IG infusions of denatonium. A final experiment assessed the potential toxicity of denatonium. To this end, we gave B6 mice a 6 mM denatonium solution as their only source of water for 3 weeks. The mice grew normally and did not display any clinical signs of denatonium toxicosis. This study provides the first evidence that rodents respond to the presence of “bitter” substances in their gastrointestinal tract by generating both behavioral and physiological responses.
Elastic cross sections and transport coefficients of molecular hydrogen

Elastic cross sections and transport coefficients are computed with a theoretical pair potential and compared with existing data. The theoretical potential is also compared with effective pair potentials which were derived from the empirical data.
Effects of GABA, Imidazoleacetic Acid and Related Substances on Conductance of Crayfish Abdominal Stretch Receptor

AN inhibitory nerve, the putative transmitter of which is γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), synapses with the dendrites of the slowly adapting crayfish stretch receptor neurone1. Perfusion of this neurone with GABA results in a large increment of conductance to chloride ions. This has been a favoured preparation for testing the effects of substances which might mimic or block the action of GABA on postsynaptic receptor sites. In most instances known to us, such studies have been performed using the measurement of rates of discharge of the stretch receptor neurone. Although under normal conditions the impulse frequency is a linear function of the generator potential, it has been shown that the transducer and impulse-generating processes in the slowly adapting receptor organ of the crayfish are separable and independent2. Therefore, it is safer and more direct to measure the influence of potential GABA-mimetic or GABA-blocking substances on membrane conductance of the stretch receptor neurone (or any other neurone) rather than on firing rates.
Attachment of Motile Bacterial Cells to Prealigned Holed Microarrays

Construction of biomotors is an exciting area of scientific research that holds great promise for the development of new technologies with broad potential applications in areas such as the energy industry and medicine. Herein, we demonstrate the fabrication of prealigned microarrays of motile Escherichia coli bacterial cells on SiOx substrates. To prepare these arrays, holed surfaces with a gold layer on the bottom of the holes were utilized. The attachment of bacteria to the holes was achieved via nonspecific interactions using poly-l-lysine hydrobromide (PLL). Our data suggest that a single motile bacterial cell can be selectively attached to an individual hole on a surface and bacterial cell binding can be controlled by altering the pH, with the greatest occupancy occurring at pH 7.8. Cells attached to hole arrays remained motile for at least 4 h. These data indicate that holed surface structures provide a promising footprint for the attachment of motile bacterial cells to form high-density site-specific functional bacterial microarrays.
SnapShot: Neuromuscular Junction

Agrin MuSK Dok-7Rapsyn AChR AChE ChAT Nav1.4Auto-antibodiesto AChRsAuto-antibodiesto MuSKHypomorphic mutations in thesegenes impair postsynaptic differentiation. The number of AChRs at synapses is reduced, which compromises the reliability of synaptic transmission and leads to muscle weakness and fatigue. Mutations in these genes impairsynaptic transmission, leading tomuscle weakness and fatigue. ChAT encodes the enzyme forsynthesizing ACh, and Nav1.4encodes a voltage-activatedsodium channel expressed inskeletal muscle. Cause accelerated degradationof AChRs and structural disorganization of the synapse,leading to Myasthenia GravisCause structural disorganizationof the synapse, leading toMyasthenia Gravis.
Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing

As the twenty-first century approaches, psychiatric nursing is reviewing its past and speculating about its future. This article reports on the current status of 525 psychiatric-mental health nurses. The nurses responded to a questionnaire designed to elicit information on career characteristics, professional activities, and client attributes. The nurses work primarily in acute care institutions or hospitals. The typical client is white, middle class, and adult. The focus of care in mental health is moving to the community. If psychiatric nurses want a viable role in the mental health system of the future, they must begin to develop a system of care for at-risk populations in the community now.
Molecular Phylogenetics and Biogeography of Tanagers in the GenusRamphocelus(Aves)

Abstract Ramphocelustanagers are distributed throughout the Neotropical lowlands. In this paper, mitochrondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequence data from cytochrome b and ND2 genes are used to estimate relationships among seven of nine species of the avian genusRamphocelus.Genetic differentiation is high betweenRamphocelus passerinii passeriniiandRamphocelus passerinii costaricensis,and the two subspecies are diagnosable and distinct from one another both morphologically and genetically. Thus, elevation to species status is recommended. Three clades are supported by both gene sequences; one clade containsR. passerinii, R. costaricensis,andR. icteronotus;the second clade containsRamphocelus carbo, Ramphocelus bresilius,andRamphocelus nigrogularis;the third clade containsRamphocelus sanguinolentus.The degree of saturation was assessed for both genes and saturation of third position of codons occurs by 10–12% uncorrected pairwise sequence divergence. The general area cladogram suggests the following area relationships: Pacific and Caribbean Central America are sister areas, Choco is the sister to the Central American area, and Amazonia/southeastern Brazil is the outgroup area to the Choco/Central American clade.
Assessment of alcohol and other drug abuse with referred adolescents

Adolescents with alcohol or other drug problems may be referred to school psychologists for assessment and demonstrate symptoms similar to handicapping conditions such as learning disabilities or emotional disturbance. Therefore, school psychologists have a need for assessment techniques to determine the probablity that referred adolescents have alcohol or other drug problems. In this paper, prereferral questionnaires, initial interviews, behavioral observations, and assessment devices are discussed. Suggestions are made for referring substance-abusing adolescents.
Noncollinear magnetism of Fe-rich Fe-Ni alloys

The magnetic structure of Fe-rich FeNi alloys has long been a subject of great scientific interest and controversy. In this study, the authors attempt to understand an interesting phenomenon that the average magnetic moment of the alloys in the γ-phase (fcc) decreases dramatically in the composition range near 70% Fe. Although the observation was made more than 30 years ago, the nature of the mechanism for this moment collapse is still controversial. In this approach, the noncollinear locally self-consistent multiple-scattering (LSMS) method is applied to the magnetic structure calculation of large unit cell samples consisting of Fe and Ni atoms. The Fe and Ni atoms are randomly distributed on a fcc lattice. The moment directions are initialized to be randomly oriented and then, as the self-consistent iterations proceed, are allowed to rotate to minimize the total energy. Astable magnetic structure of the alloy is determined by the final moment configuration. Results are compared with experiments and the possible existence of noncollinear magnetic structures are discussed.
On the Mechanism of Inhibition of KATP Channels by Glibenclamide in Rat Ventricular Myocytes

Glibenclamide Block of KATP Channels. Introduction: The mechanism by which glibenclamide inhibits KATP channel activity has been examined in membrane patches from isolated rat ventricular cells. Methods and Results: Inside-out patches were exposed to zero, or low, [ATP] to activate KATP channels. Glibenclamide did not affect single channel conductance, but reversibly reduced channel open probability from either side of the membrane. Internal (cytoplasmic) glibenclamide inhibited with half-maximal inhibitory [glibenclamide] = 6 μM, Hill coefficient = 0.35. Complete channel inhibition was not observed, even at 300 μM [glibenclamide]. The response to step increases of internal [glibenclamide] could be resolved into two phases of channel inhibition (t1/2, fast, < 1 sec, t1/2, slow= 10.5 ± 0.9 sec, n = 8). Step decrease of [glibenclamide] caused a single resolvable phase of reactivation (t1/2= 20.4 ± 0.7 sec, n = 16). Channel inhibition by internal glibenclamide could be relieved by ADP, but only in the presence of Mg2+. Conclusion: Glibenclamide can inhibit KATP channels from either side of the membrane, with block from one side being competitive with block from the other. Internal MgADP antagonizes the blocking action of glibenclamide. Glibenclamide inhibition of cardiac KATP channels differs quantitatively and qualitatively from the inhibition of pancreatic KATP channels.
Utah earthquake hazards report available

The report, “Assessment of Regional Earthquake Hazards and Risk Along the Wasatch Front, Utah” (U.S. Geological Survey Professional Paper 1500-A-J), edited by Paula L. Gori and Walter W. Hays, is now available. It documents the geological and geophysical findings resulting from the 5-year collaborative program in Utah undertaken by the USGS, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, Utah Geological Survey, the Utah Division of Comprehensive Management, the University of Utah, and Utah State University. The ten chapters that comprise the report concentrate on explaining the tectonic framework and potential for the occurrence of large damaging earthquakes in the Wasatch Front area.
Novel Use of Surveillance Data to Detect HIV-Infected Persons with Sustained High Viral Load and Durable Virologic Suppression in New York City

BACKGROUND Monitoring of the uptake and efficacy of ART in a population often relies on cross-sectional data, providing limited information that could be used to design specific targeted intervention programs. Using repeated measures of viral load (VL) surveillance data, we aimed to estimate and characterize the proportion of persons living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in New York City (NYC) with sustained high VL (SHVL) and durably suppressed VL (DSVL). METHODS/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Retrospective cohort study of all persons reported to the NYC HIV Surveillance Registry who were alive and ≥12 years old by the end of 2005 and who had ≥2 VL tests in 2006 and 2007. SHVL and DSVL were defined as PLWHA with 2 consecutive VLs ≥100,000 copies/mL and PLWHA with all VLs ≤400 copies/mL, respectively. Logistic regression models using generalized estimating equations were used to model the association between SHVL and covariates. There were 56,836 PLWHA, of whom 7% had SHVL and 38% had DSVL. Compared to those without SHVL, persons with SHVL were more likely to be younger, black and have injection drug use (IDU) risk. PLWHA with SHVL were more likely to die by 2007 and be younger by nearly ten years, on average. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Nearly 60% of PLWHA in 2005 had multiple VLs, of whom almost 40% had DSVL, suggesting successful ART uptake. A small proportion had SHVL, representing groups known to have suboptimal engagement in care. This group should be targeted for additional outreach to reduce morbidity and secondary transmission. Measures based on longitudinal analyses of surveillance data in conjunction with cross-sectional measures such as community viral load represent more precise and powerful tools for monitoring ART effectiveness and potential impact on disease transmission than cross-sectional measures alone.
Identification of sediment sources in forested watersheds with surface coal mining disturbance using carbon and nitrogen isotopes

Sediments and soils were analyzed using stable carbon and nitrogen isotope ratio mass spectrometry and carbon and nitrogen elemental analyses to evaluate the their ability to indicate land-use and land management disturbance and pinpoint loading from sediment transport sources in forested watersheds disturbed by surface coal mining. Samples of transported sediment particulate organic matter were collected from four watersheds in the Southern Appalachian forest region of southeastern Kentucky. The four watersheds had different surface coal mining history that were classified as undisturbed, active mining, and reclaimed conditions. Soil samples were analyzed including reclaimed grassland soils, undisturbed forest soils, geogenic organic matter associated with coal fragments in mining spoil, and soil organic matter from un-mined grassland soils. Statistically significant differences were found for all biogeochemical signatures when comparing transported sediments from undisturbed watersheds and surface coal mining disturbed watersheds, and the results were attributed to differences in erosion sources and the presence of geogenic organic matter. Sediment transport sources in the surface coal mining watersheds were analyzed using Monte Carlo mass balance un-mixing and it was found that: δ 15 N showed the ability to differentiate streambank erosion and surface soil erosion; and δ l3 C showed the ability to differentiate soil organic matter and geogenic organic matter. Results from the analyses suggest that streambank erosion downstream of surface coal mining sites is an especially significant source of sediment in coal mining disturbed watersheds. Further, the results suggest that the sediment transport processes governing streambank erosion loads are taking longer to reach geomorphologic equilibrium in the watershed as compared with the surface erosion processes. The dual-isotope technique provides a useful method for further investigation of the impact of surface coal mining in the uplands of the watershed upon the geomorphologic state of the channel and the source of organic matter in aquatic systems impacted by surface coal mining.
REACTIONS OF RABBITS TO INTRACUTANEOUS INJECTIONS OF PNEUMOCOCCI AND THEIR PRODUCTS : VIII. THE INTERRELATIONSHIPS OF HYPERSENSITIVENESS TO PNEUMOCOCCUS AND STREPTOCOCCUS.

1. Following repeated intracutaneous injections of heat-killed S or R pneumococci, rabbits acquire an increased skin reactivity to the nucleoprotein of both Pneumococcus and indifferent Streptococcus. 2. Rabbits acquire a skin reactivity to the proteins of both the organisms mentioned after receiving intracutaneous injections of heat-killed indifferent streptococci. 3. Injections of pneumococci into the skin are followed in some rabbits by an eye sensitivity to pneumococcus protein but not to streptococcus protein nor to suspensions of either living organism. 4. Injections of indifferent streptococci into the skin are followed, in some rabbits, by an eye sensitivity to suspensions of live indifferent Streptococcus, but not to R Pneumococcus or to the nucleoprotein of either organism. Measured in terms of bacterial specificity therefore, the eye sensitivity possesses a specificity which is not shared by the skin sensitivity. 5. The sera of rabbits injected intracutaneously with pneumococci or indifferent streptococci contain agglutinins for both R Pneurnococcus and indifferent Streptococcus. 6. Only those animals injected with pneumococci acquire resistance to pneumococcal infection.
Building and sustaining communities that prevent mental disorders: Lessons from the field of special education

Quietly, at least beyond the awareness of many psychologists, a relatively new technology based on school-wide behavior management strategies has emerged in special education to answer the call to build healthy communities. The success of these strategies in changing the practices of school systems and creating positive school climates may offer insights for school psychologists interested in preventing mental disorders and promoting health on a broader scale. Spreading the influence of school-wide behavior supports to ensure that all schools provide the nurturing environment needed to promote academic and life success for all children is an important and immediate goal. Beyond the school, the challenge will be to implement and evaluate the impact of positive behavior supports in other connected communities. The present article reviews the history and present state of school-wide behavior supports and prevention research, limitations of current practice, and opportunities for integrating school-wide programs with psychological science and practice. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Psychol Schs 43: 313–329, 2006.
Pre-bariatric surgery weight loss requirements and the effect of preoperative weight loss on postoperative outcome

Pre-bariatric surgery requirements vary between surgeons and surgical centers, with standards of practice not yet established. The goal of this systematic review was to summarize and evaluate the available literature on pre-bariatric surgery weight loss requirements and the relation between preoperative weight loss and postoperative outcome. Major databases, including Medline, PubMed and PsychINFO were searched for relevant articles. Case studies, studies>20 years old and studies that utilized self-reported body weight data were excluded. Data on the effect of the following was summarized: (1) preoperative requirements on preoperative weight loss; (2) insurance-mandated preoperative requirements; (3) the contingency of receipt of surgery; (4) preoperative weight loss on postoperative weight loss and (5) preoperative weight loss on perioperative and postoperative complication and comorbidity rates. The majority of studies suggest that: (1) current preoperative requirements held by the majority of third party payer organizations in the United States are ineffective in fostering preoperative weight loss; (2) making receipt of surgery contingent upon achieving preoperative weight loss, and meal-replacement diets, may be particularly effective in fostering preoperative weight loss and (3) preoperative weight loss may lead to improvements in at least some relevant postoperative outcomes. However, a preoperative weight loss mandate may lead to the denial of surgery and subsequent health benefits to individuals who are unable to achieve a prespecified amount of weight. Overall, the limited number and quality of prospective studies in this area prohibits the much-needed establishment of standards of practice for pre-bariatric requirements.