cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Minimum duration of light signals capable of producing the Aschoff effect.

Abstract To further explore the validity of the non-parametric model of entrainment for predicting the phase-shifting effects of light pulses, we exposes rats to several intensities of continuous light (LL) and feedback lighting (LD FB ). LD FB is a lighting condition that exposes the animal to light only during the interval of active locomotion; this interval is coincident with the photosensitive portion of the circadian cycle as defined by the phase-response-curve. This is achieved by linking lights on with locomotor activity. In addition to the comparison of LL with LD FB , the duration of the LD FB pulse was also varied in four rats. Whether rats were exposed to LL or LD FB , as light intensity increased, the free-running period (tau) of the locomotor activity rhythm also increased. This intensity-related increase in tau, which is known as the Aschoff effect, was similar for LL and LD FB 2 min at each light intensity (0.1, 1, and 100 lux). However, when the LD FB pulses were shortened from a duration of 2 min to a duration of approximately 1 sec, tau shortened significantly. These results demonstrated that the non-parametric model of entrainment adequately explains the major period-lengthening effects of LL. However, there are temporal limits to the light pulses that can be used to simulate the effects of LL (i.e., one second light pulses fail to produce the effects brought about by longer pulses).
Some notes on entropy measures. II. The relative entropy matrix and the positivity constraint

Based on the maximum entropy concept with the number of “bins” (class intervals), N, maximized in terms of residual errors in sampling of the system, the residual entropy matrix (REM), which is intrinsically positive definite, is sampled uniformly at N equal intervals in entropy space. The mandatory constraint of positivity shows that the finitely sampled REM then provides estimates on the magnitudes of “missing” components of the autocorrelation sequence describing REM. If the mandatory constraint is relaxed to its limit, the resulting prediction for REM is identical to Burg's (1967) maximum entropy algorithm. The advantages are that assessments can be made: (i) whether the “missing” components are known accurately enough that no further measurements are needed; (ii) the N equal intervals of the entropy measure are sufficient to provide resolution on the REM for each and every sample; or (iii) whether finer interval resolution is needed to extract information for a particular sample.
Wordsworth and Emerson: Aurora Borealis and the Question of Influence

This article concerns the question of influence evident in the transatlantic relationship between William Wordsworth and Ralph Waldo Emerson. I argue that influence is linked vitally to light—celestial or the northern lights (i.e. aurora borealis)—, which is evident in the prose and poetry by Wordsworth and Emerson. Electromagnetic energy conducts a circuit; this is reflected also in the transatlantic crosscurrent of the precursor and progeny. Notably, Wordsworth’s “The Complaint of a Forsaken Indian Woman” (1798) and his Preface to Lyrical Ballads (1802) influence Emerson’s The Poet (1844), which has been informed also by Michael Faraday’s Experimental Researches in Electricity (1839). The matter pertaining to influence is inextricably connected to electromagnetism, light, and aurora borealis that appear in the work by Wordsworth and Emerson. Inspiration, then, ultimately can be derived from a celestial source in relation to the terrestrial.
1013 CHEMOPROPHYLAXIS FOR CONTACTS OF CHILDREN WITH INVASIVE HAEMOPHILUS INFLUENZAE TYPE B (HIB) DISEASE

We conducted a multicentered prospective double-blind placebo controlled trial of rifampin (R) chemoprophylaxis (10 mg/kg bid x2 days). 396 contacts of 79 patients with HIB disease participated. HIB carriage eradication rates were 63.6% and 23.9% for R and placebo, respectively, when all carriers were analyzed. However, in carriers < age 5, R was not significantly better than placebo for HIB eradication. We have recently completed a second chemoprophylaxis trial comparing eradication rates of R (10 mg/kg bid x2 days) and an investigational antibiotic trimethoprim/rifampin (TR), (2.6 mg/kg T and 10 mg/kg R bid x2 days). 139 index patients were identified with invasive HIB disease. 142 of 618 contacts were carriers of HIB and received either R or TR. Carriage eradication rates were 76.8% and 76.3% for R and TR respectively. In children <5, eradication rates were 70% and 68.4% for R and TR. Carriers who remained positive after completing 2 days of TR were offered a 4 day course of R (20 mg/kg/day qd x4 days). 4 of 13 carriers who participated in the cross-over trial remained positive after 4 days of R. We conclude that neither R nor TR in these doses and schedules reliably eradicates HIB carriage in culture positive contacts. In addition, a 4 day course of R was not uniformly successful in those individuals who failed TR therapy.
Porous Shape Memory Polymers

Porous shape memory polymers (SMPs) include foams, scaffolds, meshes, and other polymeric substrates that possess porous three-dimensional macrostructures. Porous SMPs exhibit active structural and volumetric transformations and have driven investigations in fields ranging from biomedical engineering to aerospace engineering to the clothing industry. The present review article examines recent developments in porous SMPs, with focus given to structural and chemical classification, methods of characterization, and applications. We conclude that the current body of literature presents porous SMPs as highly interesting smart materials with potential for industrial use.
Stability and boundedness results of stochastic differential equations relative to a generalized norm

We consider results previously obtained in the context of a generalized norm. In particular, we develop a general comparison principle which permits us to give sufficient conditions for conditional stability and boundedness in the mean relative to a generalized norm. Finally, we provide a decomposition technique together with additional comments which demonstrate the applicability of our results.
Introduction to the Special Issue on Recent Advances in Biometrics

The ten papers in this special issue focus on recent advances in biometrics. Four of the papers are revised and extended versions of papers presented in the closing session of the BTAS 08 conference.
Electron microscopy of tobacco mosaic virus in leaves of Chenopodium amaranticolor

Abstract Leaves of Chenopodium amaranticolor were inoculated either with large amounts of tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) to produce massive infections or with less, to yield separated lesions. Sections of massively infected leaves were examined by electron microscopy at intervals up to 72 hours following inoculation; lesions were similarly studied from first appearance (at about 48 hours) until they were 10 days old. In massive infections, virus particles were first seen 30 hours after inoculation though no necrosis was apparent until 15 hours later. In older infections, great numbers of particles in crystalline arrays were found in about one-third of the cells, but interspersed with these were other cells in which little or no virus was detected. The virus appeared only in the cytoplasm. In cells which contained virus but were not yet necrotic, nuclei appeared to be unaffected. Regions containing filamentous forms, very like those associated with TMV infections in tomato and tobacco, were found in virus-containing cells, and the first appearance of filaments coincided with that of virus. In isolated lesions the pattern of virus distribution was similar; virus-containing cells were found throughout the necrotic area and for a distance of five to ten cells radially beyond. Thus in most respects the early progress of TMV infection in C. amaranticolor and in Turkish tobacco seem closely parallel. The necrosis that occurs in Chenopodium is an event that takes place only after virus has been synthesized.
A practical view of software measurement and implementation experiences within Motorola

A practical view of software measurement that formed the basis for a companywide software metrics initiative within Motorola is described. A multidimensional view of measurement is provided by identifying different dimensions (e.g., metric usefulness/utility, metric types or categories, metric audiences, etc.) that were considered in this companywide metrics implementation process. The definitions of the common set of Motorola software metrics, as well as the charts used for presenting these metrics, are included. The metrics were derived using the goal/question metric approach to measurement. A distinction is made between the use of metrics for process improvement over time across projects and the use of metrics for in-process project control. Important experiences in implementing the software metrics initiative within Motorola are also included. >
Two unique aspects of gravity probe-B star-tracking space telescope: (1) focal-plane roof-edge diffraction and (2) fused-quartz bonding for 2.5-Kelvin applications

The Gravity Probe-B cryogenic star-tracking telescope provides the inertial pointing reference, as established by a distant 'fixed' guide star, with milli-arc-second resolution per year for the NASA/Stanford general-relativity gyroscope experiment. The design of the f/27 modified- Cassegrain telescope is briefly reviewed. Then discussed are two of its unique aspects: (1) focal-plane roof-edge diffraction and (2) fused-quartz bonding for 2.5 Kelvin applications. The star image in the telescope is split by roof prisms to generate quadrant pointing information within few arc-seconds about the guide-star direction. The corresponding roof-edge diffraction effects due to the roof- prisms were compared with theoretical calculations, which successfully interpreted the test result and indicate the need for enlarging post-focal-plane detection apertures, as compared with ray-trace situation. On the other hand, a novel fused-quartz bonding technique was developed and found superior in many aspects to index-matching epoxies, optical contacting, and Corning's proprietary frit bonding for both room-temperature and cryogenic applications. The bonding was simple, economical, yet extremely reliable and optically precise. It resulted in strengths near that of fused quartz, with less than 10 nano-meter interface thickness demonstrated.
Risk taking in first and second generation Afro-Caribbean adolescents: an emerging challenge for school nurses.

School nurses are well positioned to address risk-taking behaviors for adolescents in their care. The purpose of this mixed-method exploratory study was to explore risk taking in Afro-Caribbean adolescents in South Florida, comparing first- to second-generation adolescents. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected from an immigrant group using the adolescent risk-taking instrument to evaluate risk-taking attitudes, behaviors, and self-described riskiest activities. One-hundred and six adolescents participated; 44% were first generation Afro-Caribbean. Data analysis included analysis of variance, frequencies, and content analysis. There were no differences in risk-taking attitudes; smaller percentages of first generation Afro-Caribbean adolescents reported sexual activity, substance use, and violence. Over one third of the sample, regardless of generational status, reported alcohol use, but did not note alcohol or other health-compromising behaviors as "riskiest" activities. It is important to better understand Afro-Caribbean adolescents' perspectives about risky behaviors, and school-based venues offer the best promise for reaching these adolescents. Language: en
Tissue compensators with use of vinyl lead sheets for head and neck portals on 4-MV x rays.

Tissue compensators made with a high atomic number material are compact and retain the skin‐sparing effect of megavoltage beams. In this note, we have described the use of a commercially available vinyl lead as a material for tissue compensators for use with 4‐MV beams on a Clinac‐4/80. The dosimetric data obtained included the sheet’s lead equivalence, thickness ratios, surface dose and buildup region, and transmission factors. The presence of a compensator did not alter the beam’s skin‐sparing effects. It was concluded that the vinyl lead sheets allowed an easy and rapid fabrication of a tissue compensator for head and neck portals of up to 15×15 cm.
EPR Studies of Ligand Binding to the Type 2/Type 3 Cluster in Tree Laccase

Detailed investigations of the EPR-active copper ion in the trinuclear type 2/type 3 cluster site of T1Hg Rhus vernicifera laccase suggest that at least some inhibitor anions bind to what was an EPR-silent copper center of the resting enzyme. The key observation is that with [15N]azide the adduct exhibits remarkably well resolved ligand hyperfine structure indicative of splitting from three protein (histidine) nitrogens and one azide nitrogen. This accords nicely with recent X-ray diffraction studies of adducts of the related enzyme, ascorbate oxidase (A. Messerschmidt, H. Luecke, and R. Huber, 1993, J. Mol. Biol. 230, 997-1014). We have also characterized a previously unknown dicyanide adduct that exhibits an EPR signal with ligand hyperfine structure from two protein nitrogens and two cyanide carbons. Cyanide may bind to the same copper center as azide, but not without a structural reorganization of the cluster. The results also imply that the protonation of a bridging ligand within the type 2/type 3 cluster explains the pH dependence of anion binding. Imidazole interacts with the protein but does not bind to the EPR-active copper. In keeping with the function of the dioxygen reduction site, the type 2/type 3 cluster in laccase proves to be an extremely flexible host capable of accommodating a variety of ligands.
Novel expression of functional human chorionic gonadotropin/luteinizing hormone receptor gene in human umbilical cords

Human umbilical cord contains two arteries and a vein surrounded by Wharton's jelly with amnion covering the exterior surface. The cord blood and amniotic fluid contain human CG (hCG). Whether hCG can directly regulate cord functions is unknown. We now report that human umbilical cords contain a major 4.4-kilobase and minor 2.6- and 1.8-kilobase hCG/LH receptor messenger RNA transcripts. The cords also contain a 50-kilodalton immunoreactive receptor protein which can bind hCG and LH, but not hFSH or hTSH. Rat testis used as a positive tissue control contained the same major and minor receptor transcripts and an 80-kilodalton receptor protein which can bind [125I]hCG. Rat liver used as a negative control contained neither receptor transcripts nor receptor protein. The smooth muscle and endothelial cells of umbilical arteries and vein, umbilical amnion, and cells in Wharton's jelly contain the receptor transcripts and receptor protein which can bind [125I]hCG. The receptor expression was higher in umbilical vessels closer to the baby and decreased toward placenta, becoming barely detectable once the vessels were inside the placental tissue. In vitro treatment of umbilical cords with highly purified hCG resulted in an increase of immunoreactive cyclooxygenase-1, cyclooxygenase-2, prostacyclin synthase, and 6-keto-prostaglandin F1 alpha, little change in thromboxane A2 synthase and a decrease of prostaglandin E2 and thromboxane B2 as compared to the controls, indicating that the cord receptors are functional. In summary, these novel findings suggest that hCG present in cord blood and amniotic fluid may directly regulate the vascular tone and quite possibly other functions of human umbilical cord.
Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma: Flow cytometric, p53, and PCNA analysis

Polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma of minor salivary glands (terminal duct carcinoma, lobular carcinoma) was first defined more than a decade ago. A 17% recurrence rate and a 9% metastasis rate have been reported. Fifteen formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded archival cases were analyzed. Ploidy and proliferative activity were evaluated with flow cytometric analysis. Demonstration of an abnormal p53 gene product and proliferative cell nuclear antigen analyses were also performed with routine immunohistochemical procedures. The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate these parameters and determine if a correlation existed. Flow cytometry was performed on 10 cases; 3 showed an aneuploid cell line (mean, S-phase diploid tumor cells 5.9%; S-phase aneuploid 26.7%). Products of a mutation of the p53 tumor suppressor gene have been noted to accumulate in salivary gland tumors, both benign and malignant. Qualitative assessment revealed p53 positive staining in 4 of 15 tumors; positive cells comprised 5% to 10% of the tumor. The percentage of tumor cells positive for proliferative cell nuclear antigen staining ranged from 0.5% to 70%. There was no correlation between proliferative activity as determined by proliferative cell nuclear antigen when compared with results of flow cytometric analysis except for one case that exhibited p53 staining, a 26% proliferative cell nuclear antigen fraction, and a distinct aneuploid cell line.
Geochemistry and isotopic characteristics of mafic (Phulad Ophiolite) and related rocks in the Delhi Supergroup, Rajasthan, India; implications for rifting in the Proterozoic

Abstract Regionally metamorphosed mafic rocks (Phulad ophiolite) in the Delhi Supergroup, N.W. India, have tholeiitic compositions. The data indicate that there are two independent rock suites. Phulad-Barr-Jetgarh (PBJ) meta-basalts, with element abundances and ratios resembling midocean ridge basalts (MORB), and Ranakpur-Desuri (R-D) meta-basalts and meta-gabbros, with relatively high Al2O3 and low TiO2 for similar MgO, and high LIL element (Rb, Ba, Sr) coupled with low HFS (Zr, Nb) and REE (Sm, Nd) abundances. The compositions of these rocks are characteristic of ocean arc basalts. Dioritic rocks at Ranakpur exhibit low-K tholeiitic differentiation trends and have close chemical affinity with the spatially associated meta-basalts. Ranakpur diorites define a Sm-Nd whole rock isochron corresponding to an age of 1012 ± 78 Ma with an initial Nd isotopic composition that is similar to bulk earth. Sm-Nd mineral isochrons for a meta-gabbro, diorite and quartz diorite at Ranakpur correspond to ages of 838 ± 36, 835 ± 43 and 791 ± 43 Ma respectively. These younger ages reflect metamorphic re-equilibration of isotope compositions during widespread granite and granodiorite emplacement in this region during the late Proterozoic. Model Sm-Nd ages for the meta-basalts calculated relative to undepleted mantle vary between 1300–1700 Ma. The chemistry of both mafic rock suites indicates derivation from source regions which had been depleted during previous melting episodes, so the model ages are a maximum age constraint. Ranakpur-Desuri mafic rocks have negative initial ϵNd (−1.0 to −4.5) and low Sm Nd ratios suggesting crustal contamination or reworking. With a few exceptions the PBJ meta-basalts have positive initial ϵNd (+1.5 to +4.8) indicating that they were derived from heterogeneously enriched, although longterm depleted mantle. The chemical data support the hypothesis that the PBJ meta-basalts are fragments of Proterozoic ocean crust.
Hydrogenation-dehydrogenation of pyrenes catalysed by sulphided cobalt-molybdate at coal liquefaction conditions

Abstract The hydrogenation and dehydrogenation kinetics of pyrene and hydropyrenes were studied in batch microreactors, both with and without catalyst, as a function of time, temperature, pressure and catalyst concentration. Under catalytic conditions at 648 K and 7.2 MPa, 4,5-dihydropyrene and pyrene reached equilibrium in 3 min with a molar ratio of 0.41. The heat of the hydrogenation reaction was —10 ± 1 kcal mol −1 compared with -12 kcal mol −1 for the hydrogenation of phenanthrene to 9,10-dihydrophenanthrene. The hydrogenation and dehydrogenation rates were negligible without catalyst. At 648 K with catalyst, 70% of the hydropyrenes reverted to pyrene in 5 min under nitrogen. The rapid pyrene—4.5-dihydropyrene equilibration implies that the equilibrium constant may be of more importance than the hydrogenation rate constant for predicting the amount of hydrogen available for donation by pyrene-like components in coal liquefaction solvents.
Hydrogeologic delineation of habitats for endangered species: the Comal Springs/River System

We delineate 18 distinct habitats for the endangered fountain darter in the Comal Springs/River system based upon a combination of vegetative, geologic, and hydrologic criteria. Comal Springs are the largest natural discharge from the Edwards aquifer of central Texas; they issue along faults which penetrate the confined portion of the aquifer. The springs are the head of the Comal River which is an important economic and recreational resource to the local community. The spring/river system is the home of the fountain darter, a federally listed endangered species. Previous studies of this system were on a large scale and lacked detail necessary for characterization. The fountain darter and other fauna in the Comal Springs/River system are threatened by the possibility of diminished flows and the concomitant habitat change. The 18 habitats are defined by the dominant species of vegetation, the substrate, and the flow conditions. Human alterations and spring discharge control the morphology of the river and the substrates. Stream velocities determined substrate conditions and, thus indirectly, the distribution of vegetation and habitats. In this system, hydrochemical parameters were uniform as were the soils adjacent to the stream; these factors were not important to the habitat delineation. The range of stream velocities necessary to maintain the habitats can be estimated with the Hjulstrom diagram. The darters were associated with a number of these habitats. We surmise that significant alteration of the system's habitats will occur if discharge conditions change.
Students’ Evaluation of Teaching Effectiveness: Some Implications of Stability:

Previous research has indicated that the mean scores of student evaluation of teaching effectiveness do not change with experience. If this is true, whatever aspects of effective instruction the instruments are measuring do not change in the students’ perception. University students were asked to indicate what instructional characteristics changed or stayed the same as an instructor gained more and more experience. Instructor structural-related factors such as organization, knowledge, fairness, and even the ability of the students to learn were perceived as improving over time. Personalityrelated factors were perceived as stable. Implications of these findings are discussed.
Factorization and end point singularities in heavy-to-light decays

We prove a factorization theorem for heavy-to-light form factors. Our result differs in several important ways from previous proposals. A proper separation of scales gives hard kernels that are free of end point singularities. A general procedure is described for including soft effects usually associated with the tail of wave functions in hard exclusive processes. We give an operator formulation of these soft effects using the soft-collinear effective theory, and show that they appear at the same order in the power counting as the hard spectator contribution.
Touched and Moved by STAT3

STAT3, a member of the signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) family of transcription factors, is a known regulator of cell motility through its transcriptional activating functions. However, new evidence suggests a novel role for non–tyrosine-phosphorylated and cytoplasmically localized STAT3 in mediating cell migration by disrupting an interaction between microtubules and one of its partners, stathmin. The association of STAT3 with stathmin potentiates microtubule polymerization and cell movement.
Physiological stress in striped bass : effect of acclimation temperature

Abstract Physiological responses to acclimation temperature and confinement stress were studied in yearling striped bass, Morone saxatilis . Temperature significantly affected plasma cortisol, glucose, chloride, and hematocrit but not osmolality in fish acclimated to 5, 10, 16, 21, 25 and 30°C. Close confinement for 12 min in a net resulted in changes of these characteristics in some or all of these groups. Generally, plasma cortisol and glucose increased, and plasma chloride, osmolality, and hematocrit decreased due to net confinement, and returned toward resting levels after release from the net. The physiological changes during stress were greatest and the recovery from these changes was slowest at 5 and 30°C. Further, the quantitative response was least and the recovery most rapid in fish stressed at 10 and 16°C. Acclimating and moving striped bass within this temperature range should decrease stress-related responses and mortality and thus improve yield after stocking.
Isolating surface-enhanced Raman scattering hot spots using multiphoton lithography.

We present a method for improving femtomole-level trace detection (109 molecules) using large-area surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates. Using multiphoton-induced exposure of a commercial photoresist, we physically limit the available molecular adsorption sites to only the electromagnetic “hot spots” on the substrate. This process prevents molecules from adsorbing to sites of weak SERS enhancement, while permitting adsorption to sites of extraordinary SERS enhancement. For a randomly adsorbed submonolayer of benzenethiol molecules the average Raman scattering cross section of the processed sample is 27 times larger than that of an unprocessed SERS substrate.
A member of a conserved Plasmodium protein family with membrane-attack complex/perforin (MACPF)-like domains localizes to the micronemes of sporozoites

Pore-forming proteins are employed by many pathogens to achieve successful host colonization. Intracellular pathogens use pore-forming proteins to invade host cells, survive within and productively interact with host cells, and finally egress from host cells to infect new ones. The malaria-causing parasites of the genus Plasmodium evolved a number of life cycle stages that enter and replicate in distinct cell types within the mosquito vector and vertebrate host. Despite the fact that interaction with host-cell membranes is a central theme in the Plasmodium life cycle, little is known about parasite proteins that mediate such interactions. We identified a family of five related genes in the genome of the rodent malaria parasite Plasmodium yoelii encoding secreted proteins all bearing a single membrane-attack complex/perforin (MACPF)-like domain. Each protein is highly conserved among Plasmodium species. Gene expression analysis in P. yoelii and the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum indicated that the family is not expressed in the parasites blood stages. However, one of the genes was significantly expressed in P. yoelii sporozoites, the stage transmitted by mosquito bite. The protein localized to the micronemes of sporozoites, organelles of the secretory invasion apparatus intimately involved in host-cell infection. MACPF-like proteins may play important roles in parasite interactions with the mosquito vector and transmission to the vertebrate host.
Processing techniques to locally alter the Tc of aluminum thin films

Abstract We report on the successful use of reactive ion etching techniques and ion implantation to locally alter the superconducting transition temperature of aluminum thin films by as much as 5%. The mechanism by which Tc is shifted is by the replacement of surface oxygen with fluorine in the case of the reactive ion etch, with a secondary effect due to damage being evident at long exposure times. The ion implantation produces a shift in Tc of similar magnitude through the damage induced uniformly in the entire film.
A subgroup of human VH3 germline genes that encode a high-avidity synovial rheumatoid factor

We have previously derived and identified a highly avid monoclonal IgM rheumatoid factor (mRF), C6, from unstimulated rheumatoid synovial cells (RSC). At the time, the closet VH germline gene, VH26, demonstrated only 88% homology with C6. To identify the germline counterpart of C6, genomic DNA from the same rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patient from whom C6 was derived was used in the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Four of the six closely related germline genes that we sequenced had exonic regions that were identical with the VH region of C6 cDNA. These six germline sequences differed in their intronic regions, suggesting that they were distinct, but closely related genomic sequences. To further evaluate the extent of these related genes we identified nine additional germline genes having VH-encoding exons that were 86-97% identical to the C6 cDNA sequence. Furthermore, we examined the polymorphic nature of the C6 VH gene using single strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP), and identified two peaks, confirming the existence of highly homologous genes. The sequence and polymorphism data suggest that: (1) the VH region of the high avidity mRF C6 was derived from an unmutated germline gene; (2) C6 was encoded by a VH gene belonging to a set of homologous genes within the larger VH3 family; and (3) in addition to somatic rearrangements of B-cell genes and antigen-driven somatic mutation, gene duplication and conversion events of germline genes could be important in generating diversity and polyclonality among high-affinity pathogenic autoantibodies.
KIM and the rabbit: The use of the KIM-1 microprocessor to control classical conditioning of the rabbit’s nictitating membrane response

The KIM-1 microprocessor combined with a plug-board interface provides an inexpensive and highly flexible system for controlling classical conditioning of the rabbit’s nictitating membrane response. The system is described in the context of a program for differential conditioning.
Heat Shock Preconditioning Inhibits CD4+ T Lymphocyte Activation in Transplanted Fatty Rat Livers

Heat shock preconditioning (HPc) of fatty donor livers significantly increases recipient survival in rats. We investigated to what extent the blockade of Kupffer cells by gadolinium chloride (GdCl3) can mimic the effect of HPc and the involvement of liver CD4+ T lymphocytes in HPc. Fatty liver was experimentally induced in Lewis rats by a choline- and methionine-deficient diet. Fatty liver donors were pretreated with HPc (42.5 degrees C for 10 min), the Kupffer cell inhibitor GdCl3, or placebo (sham group). Donors were then harvested, stored in University of Wisconsin preservation solution for 12 h at 4 degrees C, and transplanted into normal syngeneic rats. Hepatic injury (alanine aminotransferase) and serum cytokines (interleukin-12p70, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and interleukin-10) of recipients increased at 3 h, then decreased, and increased again at 24 h after transplantation. HPc treatment diminished both the early and later phases of this biphasic response and improved recipient survival. GdCl3 reduced these cytokines in the early but not the later phase and did not reduce neutrophil accumulation or improve the recipient survival. HPc, but not GdCl3 treatment, also reduced the number of liver CD4+ T lymphocytes and their interferon-gamma production. We conclude that HPc, but not GdCl3 treatment, prevents biphasic liver injury and the activation of liver CD4+ T lymphocytes in transplanted fatty donor livers.
A new haemoprotein with a unique iron porphyrin prosthetic group isolated from human erythrocytes.

HAEMOGLOBIN, comprising more than 95 per cent of the protein of the red cell, is the major protein in the mature human erythrocyte. The extremely high concentration of this compound in the red cell renders very difficult the identification of other haemoproteins in the erythrocyte. Catalase is one haemoprotein which has been isolated from erythrocytes. A third haemoprotein, spectrally similar to haemoglobin but which has been reported to be functional in the methaemoglobin reductase system, has also been reported1,2. It is the purpose of this communication to present observations on still another haemoprotein which has been isolated from normal human erythrocytes. This compound is particularly noteworthy since its prosthetic group appvears to be different from any previously reported naturally occurring iron porphyrin.
Determinants of the severity of cruise vessel accidents

This study investigates determinants of the property damage and injury severities of cruise vessel accidents. Detailed data of individual cruise vessel accidents for the period 1991-2001 that were investigated by the US Coast Guard were used to estimate cruise vessel accident property damage and injury severity equations. The estimation results suggest that cruise vessel damage cost per vessel gross ton is greater for: allision, collision, equipment-failure, explosion, fire, flooding, and grounding cruise vessel accidents than for other types of accidents and a human cause. The accident injury severity is greater for ocean cruise than for inland waterway and harbor/dinner cruise vessel accidents and a human cause. The unit damage cost for explosion accidents is greater than that for other types of accidents by $207 per vessel gross ton. If the accident is caused by a human, rather than an environmental or vessel factor, the probabilities of non-fatal and fatal injuries increase.
Locus coeruleus and intracranial self-stimulation: a cautionary note.

In an effort to confirm the presence of intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS) within the locus coeruleus, an ICSS testing procedure typically employed in our laboratory was used. Eighty male albino rats were implanted with bipolar electrodes made with either 78.7-μm or 254-μm nichrome wire. ICSS was not observed with electrodes in or adjacent to the locus coeruleus. Examination of the histological material revealed that some of the small-diameter electrodes were embedded within the locus coeruleus and yet no ICSS could be demonstrated in such cases. These results contrast with ICSS that we have observed previously in frontal cortex, both medial and sulcal, septohippocampal area, lateral hypothalamus, ventral midbrain tegmentum, and dorsal tegmentum in the region of the decussation of the superior cerebellar peduncle.
FROM THE ROTATION GROUP TO THE POINCARE GROUP

Larry Biedenharn is, perhaps, best known for his penetrating insights into the relevance of abstract mathematics for the structure of physical theory and his ability to implement this mathematics in a style comprehensible to physicists. This is well-illustrated by his many recent contributions to q-algebras. He has also written numerous papers concerned with the pedagogy of physical theory — papers with the purpose of clarifying the content and meaning of a subject. It is in the spirit of these latter contributions that the present paper is presented. The subject is the quantum rotation group, SU(2), the group of 2 × 2 unitary unimodular matrices, and its fundamental role in physical theory.
In Vivo Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Imaging of Mesenchymal−Epithelial Transition (MET) Receptor

We report the radiosynthesis and evaluation of 3-[3,5-dimethyl-4-(4-[11C]methylpiperazinecarbonyl)-1H-pyrrol-2-ylmethylene]-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-indole-5-sulfonic acid (3-chlorophenyl)methylamide, termed [11C]SU11274 ([11C]14) for in vivo imaging of mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET) receptor by positron emission tomography (PET). Following the synthesis of the precursor (13) that was achieved in 10 steps with a total yield of 9.7%, [11C]14 was obtained through radiomethylation in a range of 5-10% radiochemical yield and over 95% radiochemical purity. For in vivo PET studies, two human lung cancer xenograft models were established using MET-positive NCI-H1975 and MET-negative NCI-H520 cell lines. Quantitative [11C]14-PET studies showed that the tumor uptake of [11C]14 in the NCI-H1975 xenografts was significantly higher than that in the NCI-H520 xenografts, which is consistent with their corresponding immunohistochemical tissue staining patterns of MET receptors from the same animals. These studies demonstrated that [11C]14-PET is an appropriate imaging marker for quantification of MET receptor in vivo, which can facilitate efficacy evaluation in the clinical development of MET-targeted cancer therapeutics.
Injury incidence rates in a paint company on rotating production shifts

Reports of work accidents and increased absence due to sickness among shift workers have suggested that their work performance and health are adversely affected by interference with the body's normal circadian or biological rhythm. Since the rotating shift is the most disruptive of the work regimens, an investigation was undertaken of the reportable occupational injuries of 1700 paint production and associated employees of one company working only on rotating shift. Their annual accident incidence rates averaged over 10 years were compared to the average annual rate reported by the Department of Labor for the entire United States paint manufacturing industry representing predominately day and non-rotating shift workers. The significance of the hour of the accident incidence rates was tested by chi-square statistics using loglinear models appropriate for null hypotheses that assume no effect due to shift work. The incidence rates of the company studied were lower than those of the U.S. paint industry, suggesting work safety practices uniquely related to the company studied may have predominated. Within the company, however, some time-of-day and circadian effects were indicated by an increased rate of accidents on the night shift, particularly during the last 3 h of the shift.
A heat transfer analysis of animals: Unifying concepts and the application of metabolism chamber data to field ecology

This paper presents a heat transfer analysis of animals which lies between detailed thermal energy budget analysis and the simplified “Newton's Law of cooling” approach. The analysis considers the animal to be composed of two or three thermal layers. Heat transfer by conduction, convection, and thermal radiation are included separately in linearized form. Solar and thermal radiation from the environment and heat production and loss by metabolism and evaporation are included as rates. The solution for body temperature, Tb, is arranged into three parameters: (1) The operative environmental temperature, Te, the effective temperature of the environment for a specific animal, combining conduction, convection, and radiation; (2) the overall thermal conductance, K0, giving the thermal insulation of the animal; (3) the effective dry metabolic heat production, M∗, the algebraic sum of the metabolic heat production and evaporative cooling, corrected for the partitioning of evaporative cooling between the body core and the environment. For Tb constant, Te, and K0 are combined into a fourth parameter, the standard operative environmental temperature, Tes, This parameter is a measure of the value of M∗ required to maintain Tb constant, and allows the sensible thermal stress of different environments (e.g. a metabolism chamber and an outdoor habitat) to be compared. The parameters Te, K0, and M∗ are functionally equivalent to the corresponding parameters in “Newton's Law”. However, this should not be construed to justify the use of “Newton's Law”, since the parameters are not measured correctly by traditional procedures. However, it is possible to make direct measurements of Te, K0, Tes, and M∗ with taxidermic models of the animal. These direct measurements allow a simplified approach to many descriptive problems in thermal physiology and ecology, while obtaining results which may be related to detailed energy budget analysis.
On the atomistic simulation of plastic deformation and fracture in crystals

Tensile stretching of a two-dimensional model crystal was computationally studied using molecular statics simulations. Attention was directed to the atomistics of defect activities throughout the deformation history. It is shown that the incorporation of an initial point defect is able to trigger dislocation slip in a repetitive and controlled manner. The initial defect is also seen to have potential bearing on the formation of voiding damage that leads to ductile fracture of the crystal. Implications to the nanoscale mechanical behavior and its modeling are discussed.
Travel assistance device: utilising global positioning system-enabled mobile phones to aid transit riders with special needs

Recent advancements in mobile technology allow global positioning system (GPS)-enabled cell phones to provide a variety of real-time location-based services. This study reports on the design, implementation and testing of such a service, the travel assistance device (TAD), that aids transit riders with special needs in using public transportation. TAD is a program that provides the rider with customised real-time audio, visual and tactile prompts for exiting the transit vehicle by announcing `Get ready`` and `Pull the cord now!` Additionally, TAD provides alerts to riders, their caretakers and travel trainers if a rider deviates from the planned route. A website allows easy access for the creation of new trip itineraries and allows authorised personnel to monitor the rider`s location in real-time from any computer. While the TAD was designed to aid transit riders with special needs to increase their level of independence and their care-takers` level of security, any rider new to a transit system can use TAD for planning and executing trips with confidence and ease.
The Effect of Feeding Variable Concentrations of Monensin on the Control of Coccidiosis

Abstract Chickens were given concentrations of monensin in the feed which increased at weekly intervals (60 to 121 ppm). This resulted in a fairly constant intake of drug (mg/k body weight). Such chickens consumed less drug than those given monensin at 121 ppm. Chickens given variable concentrations of drug in the food were well protected against coccidiosis judged by the parameters of lesion scores and mortality. Total body weight of these chickens was greater and lesion scores at 28 days were lower compared with chickens given constant levels of monensin, but the differences were not significant. These results suggest that adequate control of coccidiosis in broilers could be achieved by administering a relatively low concentration of an anticoccidial 0 to 3 weeks followed by a high concentration.
Influence of DNA repair on mutation spectra in Salmonella

This paper reviews the influence of DNA repair on spontaneous and mutagen-induced mutation spectra at the base-substitution (hisG46) and -1 frameshift (hisD3052) alleles present in strains of the Salmonella (Ames) mutagenicity assay. At the frameshift allele (mostly a CGCGCGCG target), DeltauvrB influences the frequency of spontaneous hotspot mutations (-CG), duplications, and deletions, and it also shifts the sites of deletions and duplications. Cells with pKM101+DeltauvrB spontaneously produce complex frameshifts (frameshifts with an adjacent base substitution). The spontaneous frequency of 1-base insertions or concerted (templated) mutations is unaffected by DNA repair, and neither mutation is inducible by mutagens. Glu-P-1, 1-nitropyrene (1NP), and 2-acetylaminofluorene (2AAF) induce only hotspot mutations and are unaffected by pKM101, whereas benzo(a)pyrene and 4-aminobiphenyl induce only hotspot in pKM101(-), and hotspot plus complex in pKM101(+). At the base-substitution allele (mostly a CC/GG target), the DeltauvrB allele increases spontaneous transitions in the absence of pKM101 and increases transversions in its presence. The frequency of suppressor mutations is decreased 4x by DeltauvrB, but increased 7. 5x by pKM101. Both repair factors cause a shift in the proportion of mutations to the second position of the CC/GG target. With UV light and gamma-rays, the DeltauvrB allele increases the proportion of transitions relative to transversions. pKM101 is required for mutagenesis by Glu-P-1 and 4-AB, and the types and positions of the substitutions are not altered by the addition of the DeltauvrB allele. Changes in DNA repair appear to cause more changes in spontaneous than in mutagen-induced mutation spectra at both alleles. There is a high correlation (r(2)=0.8) between a mutagen's ability to induce complex frameshifts and its relative base-substitution/frameshift mutagenic potency. A mutagen induces the same primary class of base substitution in TA100 (DeltauvrB, pKM101) as it does in Escherichia coli, mammalian cells, or rodents as well as in the p53 gene of human tumors associated with exposure to that mutagen. Thus, a mutagen induces the same primary class of base substitution in most organisms, reflecting the conserved nature of DNA replication and repair processes.
The mechanical properties of ceramic composites produced by melt oxidation

Abstract The strength and fracture toughness of a range of DMOX materials, with and without SiC particulates, have been measured. The strength has been shown to correlate with the SiC particulate size and to be consistent with a model based on the expansion misfit between the particulates and the matrix. The toughness has contributions for both the residual alloy and the SiC. The former has been shown to conform well with the expectations of models based on plastic dissipation in the alloy. The influence of the SiC is found to be strongly dependent on the particulate size and is qualitatively consistent with a contribution to toughness from frictional dissipation at debonded SiC/Al2O3 interfaces.
Communication competence: Model and application

(1982). Communication competence: Model and application. Journal of Applied Communication Research: Vol. 10, No. 1, pp. 29-37.
Towards an optical frequency comb with mm-scale microresonators for distributing atomic standards

We will discuss progress on the fabrication of optical microresonators for generation of a frequency comb via nonlinear parametric oscillation. With disk-like resonators of quartz we have achieved Q = 109.
In vivo examination of human lipomas with freehand elastography - Preliminary results

In the context of ultrasound elastography, we recently developed a 2D strain estimation method to image the deformation of a medium during its compression with the probe. This technique was proved to provide good-quality strain images with data acquired in a freehand configuration on elastography-dedicated phantoms and ex vivo dog tissue lesions. In this study, the application to in vivo human benign tumors is presented. The initial results obtained demonstrate that our method is able to provide easily interpretable deformation images in clinical conditions.
Effects of gamma irradiation on optical properties of CdSe/ZnS colloidal quantum dots

Effects of 137Cs gamma irradiation on photoluminescent properties of CdSe/ZnS colloidal quantum dots are reported. Optical degradation was evaluated by measuring dependence of photoluminescence intensity on irradiation dose. CdSe/ZnS quantum dots show poor radiation hardness.
Commentary: Challenges and opportunities for global environmental governance in the 21st century

Abstract The four articles in this symposium address one of the most important questions of our day: whether national and global societies can effectively and fairly address the environmental crises that face us. We need to understand how “another world” might be possible, who the key actors would be in creating it, and what the main obstacles are likely to be. New avenues for control of the negative effects of globalization are emerging, and these are important articles in moving the discussion forward on voluntary, technological, and citizen-consumer efforts to institute them. We need systematic studies of when and where citizen power is greatest and least, and what happens at the points in the middle. Social scientists’ role can be both critical and positive, providing analyses that facilitate realistic and strategic solutions that can be tried and improved.