cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Spatial/Spectral filtering with linearly constrained minimum variance beamformers

In this paper, orthogonal low-dimension models for broad-band sources, as observed by an array/delay-line structure, are developed. The models are termed broad-band source representation spaces, and are subspaces of the observation space. They are generated from eigenstructures of source sample covariance matrices and represent sources efficiently in the 2nd-order statistical sense. For a single broad-band source, propagating in a pure delay environment and observed with an isotropic array, an accurate indication of the model dimension is derived which is independent on the array configuration, being a function of the observed source time-bandwidth product only. Using these representations, procedures are described for controlling the spatial and spectral response of linearly constrained minimum variance broad-band array/beamformers. The procedures employ linear constraints to control complex gain characteristics, over selected bands of frequency, for multiple points of 3-D regions of source locations and do not require the use of steering delays. The constraints are derived from source representation spaces and are termed eigenvector constraints. Simulations are presented which illustrate the effectiveness of the new linear constraints.
Novel use of a chimpanzee pseudogene for chromosomal mapping of human cytochrome c oxidase subunit IV.

Abstract We have isolated a chimpanzee processed pseudogene for subunit IV of cytochrome c oxidase (COX; EC 1.9.3.1) by screening a chimpanzee genomic library in λCharon 32 with a bovine liver cDNA encoding COX subunit IV (COX IV), and localized it to a 1.9-kb Hin dIII fragment. Southern-blot analysis of genomic DNA from five primates showed that DNAs from human, gorilla, and chimpanzee each contained the 1.9-kb pseudogene fragment, whereas orangutan and pigtail macaque monkey DNA did not. This result clearly indicates that the pseudogene arose before the divergence of the chimpanzee and gorilla from the primate lineage. By screening Chinese hamster × human hybrid panels with the human COX4 cDNA, we have mapped COX4 genes to two human chromosomes, 14 and 16. The 1.9-kb Hin dIII fragment containing the pseudogene, COX4P1 , can be assigned to chromosome 14, and by means of rearranged chromosomes in somatic cell hybrids, to 14q21-qter. Similarly, the functional gene, COX4 , has been mapped to 16q22-qter.
Acid-base regulation in pulmonate molluscs

Evidence is presented for a role of CO2 in acid-base regulation by air-breathing gastropods. In the land snail Otala lactea, alterations of PCO2 account for pH adjustment during acute temperature change and in compensation for metabolic acidosis. CO2 release from the gastropod lung appears to be more closely coupled with ventilation than is O2 uptake, because O2 uptake is limited to a greater extent by diffusion through the lung epithelium. Cutaneous CO2 release may account for half of CO2 release from active snails, and the loss of this route during withdrawal into the shell partly accounts for elevation of CO2 during dormancy. Further CO2 accumulation and consequent acidosis during dormancy is attributable to hypoventilation of the lung. Although respiratory acidosis appears to be involved in metabolic depression during dormancy, the mechanism of influence on cellular metabolism is unknown and is probably indirect. Unlike the respiration of whole animals, respiration of isolated tissues of Otala is insensitive to PCO2. © 1992 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Multipole transitions of Rydberg atoms in modulated ponderomotive potentials

We consider multipole transitions between Rydberg states in amplitude-modulated standing-wave ponderomotive potentials. For experimentally realizable depths of the ponderomotive potential, we find Rabi frequencies of tens of kilohertz. The transitions are not subject to dipole selection rules and allow for changes in the angular momentum quantum number up to about 5. The effects of energy level shifts caused by the ponderomotive potential are discussed.
Influence of ι-Carrageenan, Pectin, and Gelatin on the Physicochemical Properties and Stability of Milk Protein-Stabilized Emulsions

UNLABELLED This study evaluated the stability of bilayer emulsions as a function of secondary layer composition and pH. Primary emulsions were formulated with 5% soybean oil, 1% protein from nonfat dry milk (NDM) powder as emulsifier and ι-carrageenan (ι-carr), low-methoxyl pectin (LMp), high-methoxyl pectin (HMp), or gelatin as secondary layers. ζ-Potential values increased for each emulsion as the pH decreased, with ι-carr emulsions being consistently more negatively charged than primary emulsions and significantly more stable. ζ-Potential values were not always correlated to emulsion stability. Gelatin secondary emulsions at pH 3 and HMp secondary emulsions at pH 7 were unstable due to the presence of depletion flocculation. In addition, LMp secondary emulsions stability at pH 7 might be due to calcium bridging, which increased the emulsion's viscosity. Overall, the stability of NDM emulsions was improved when ι-carr and LMp were used as secondary layers at pH 7 and 5, and when ι-carr and HMp were used as secondary layers at pH 3. Increased stability of these systems can be attributed to a second homogenization step used to formulate the secondary emulsions and to the presence of Ca(+2) in the NDM. Results from this research show that the stability of bilayer emulsions is driven by the presence of depletion flocculation, droplet charge, droplet size and distribution and viscosity. PRACTICAL APPLICATION The use of everyday ingredients (nonfat dry milk powder, gelatin, pectin, and carrageenan), which are understood and accepted by the average consumer, creates label-friendly products that are the wave of the future. Stable emulsions can be formed using these ingredients at various pH. Understanding the stability and how the pH impacts the physicochemical characteristics and stability of these emulsions will enable manufactures to use ordinary ingredients to create healthier products (for example, low-fat dressings, sauces, dips, and beverages).
Beyond Reflection: Perception, virtue, and teacher knowledge

In this article, I aim to vindicate the belief that many teachers have that their intuitions, insights, or perceptions are legitimate—and indispensible—guides for their teaching. Perceptions can constitute knowledge. This runs counter to some number of views that emphasize ‘reflective practice’ and teachers as ‘reflective practitioners.’ I do not deny that reflection can be important, but it is a derivative task, dependent on teachers being the ‘right sort of subject,’ having the ‘right orientation’ to their work, at the service of achieving that orientation. That orientation is a matter of virtue, where virtue is manifested in the capacity to read situations correctly for what is required to serve persons’ welfare, for them to do well. This entails that good teaching is more experienced-based than research-based. Ultimately, it is life experience that provides for teachers’ ability to see well.
Modeling the Global Interannual Variability of Ozone Due to the Equatorial QBO and to Extratropical Planetary Wave Variability

By forcing an interactive chemical‐dynamical model of the stratosphere with the observed Singapore zonal winds and with the observed daily varying planetary wave heights just above the tropopause over the period from March 1980 to February 1993, much of the observed interannual variability (IAV) in the monthly mean ozone column from pole to pole was able to be reproduced. The best correlations were obtained equatorward of 508 during winter and autumn in both hemispheres. These correlations were due to the model’s interaction with the specified equatorial zonal wind. In the Southern Hemisphere, the observed high-latitude ozone anomaly in November (the month with the largest anomaly) is well anticorrelated with the 20-mb Singapore wind, and correlations suggest the anomaly propagates poleward from 458S in August and possibly even from 158 Si n June. The model reproduces this behavior well. In the Northern Hemisphere (NH), by contrast, the observed high-latitude ozone anomaly is not well correlated with the equatorial quasi-biennial oscillation nor does it propagate from lower latitudes. Model results demonstrate that the NH high-latitude ozone anomaly is influenced strongly by the IAV in the forcing of the planetary waves. Model results show a large IAV in the ozone column during polar night in the NH (where the Total Ozone Mapping Spectrometer is not able to observe) that is due to the IAV in the forcing of planetary waves.
Functional Modulation of Cardiac ATP-Sensitive Potassium Channels by Nitric Oxide via Intracellular Signaling

ATP-sensitive potassium (KATP) channels are crucial for stress adaptation in the heart. Nitric oxide (NO) has been shown to stimulate cardiac KATP channels; however, the mechanistic details remain poorly understood. Here we sought to delineate the intracellular mechanism responsible for NO modulation of sarcolemmal KATP (sarcKATP) channels in ventricular cardiomyocytes. Cell-attached patch recordings were performed in combination with pharmacological, genetic and biochemical approaches. Bath application of the NO donor NOC-18 increased the single-channel activity of Kir6.2/SUR2A (i.e., the cardiac-type KATP) channels in transfected HEK293 cells, which was abolished by selective suppression of cGMP-dependent protein kinase (PKG), extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK)1/2, Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) (hydrogen peroxide H2O2 in particular), respectively. Importantly, NO donors potentiated function of sarcKATP channels preactivated by the channel opener pinacidil in adult rabbit ventricular myocytes, through destabilizing the longest closed state and facilitating opening transitions, and the potentiation was nullified when PKG, calmodulin, CaMKII or ERK1/2 was inhibited. Exogenous H2O2 also stimulated ventricular sarcKATP channels in intact cells in an ERK1/2- and CaMKII-dependent manner. Genetic ablation of CaMKIIδ, the predominant cardiac CaMKII isoform, diminished PKG stimulation of mouse ventricular sarcKATP channels (compared with wild-type controls). Kinase activity and Western blot assays further supported that NO-PKG activation augmented CaMKII activity in ventricular myocytes, which was mediated by ERK1/2. Collectively, we demonstrate that NO stimulates ventricular sarcKATP channels via a cGMP/PKG/ROS(H2O2)/ERK/calmodulin/CaMKII signaling cascade that alters channel gating. This novel signaling pathway may control cardiac excitability and mediate, in part, cytoprotection against ischemia-reperfusion injury, by opening myocardial KATP channels.
Tocotrienols induce apoptosis in breast cancer cell lines via an endoplasmic reticulum stress-dependent increase in extrinsic death receptor signaling

Tocotrienols are naturally occurring forms of vitamin E based on their structural similarity. This study focused on investigating anticancer effects of tocotrienols and the mechanisms of apoptosis induction by tocotrienols in vivo and in vitro. Dietary delivery of γ-tocotrienol (γ-T3) suppressed tumor growth in a syngeneic implantation mouse mammary cancer model by inhibiting cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis. In cell culture studies, γ-T3 inhibited colony formation of a mouse mammary cancer cell line and human breast cancer cell lines. The anti-proliferative effects of tocotrienols were highly correlated with an increase in apoptosis based on Annexin V assessment. Treatment of human MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells with γ-T3 induced cleavages of PARP as well as caspase-8, -9, and -3. Additional analyses showed that γ-T3 activated c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 MAPK, and upregulated death receptor 5 (DR5) and C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP), an endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress marker. Silencing either JNK or p38 MAPK reduced the increase in DR5 and CHOP and partially blocked γ-T3-induced apoptosis. Both DR5 and CHOP upregulation were required for γ-T3-induced apoptosis, and DR5 was transcriptionally regulated by CHOP after γ-T3 treatment. Moreover, γ-T3 increased the level of other ER-stress markers. Taken together, these results suggest that upregulation of DR5 by γ-T3 treatment is dependent on JNK and p38 MAPK activation which is mediated by ER-stress.
Arg/Abl2 Modulates the Affinity and Stoichiometry of Binding of Cortactin to F-Actin

The Abl family nonreceptor tyrosine kinase Arg/Abl2 interacts with cortactin, an Arp2/3 complex activator, to promote actin-driven cell edge protrusion. Both Arg and cortactin bind directly to filamentous actin (F-actin). While protein– protein interactions between Arg and cortactin have well-characterized downstream effects on the actin cytoskeleton, it is unclear whether and how Arg and cortactin affect each other’s actin binding properties. We employ actin cosedimentation assays to show that Arg increases the stoichiometry of binding of cortactin to F-actin at saturation. Using a series of Arg deletion mutants and fragments, we demonstrate that the Arg Cterminal calponin homology domain is necessary and sufficient to increase the stoichiometry of binding of cortactin to F-actin. We also show that interactions between Arg and cortactin are required for optimal affinity between cortactin and the actin filament. Our data suggest a mechanism for Arg-dependent stimulation of binding of cortactin to F-actin, which may facilitate the recruitment of cortactin to sites of local actin network assembly.
Evaluation of left ventricular wall motion, volumes, and ejection fraction by gated myocardial tomography with technetium 99m-labeled tetrofosmin: A comparison with cine magnetic resonance imaging

Whether left ventricular function can be assessed accurately by gated single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) in patients with myocardial infarction and severe perfusion defects is not well known. Twenty-five patients with an acute myocardial infarction underwent 99mTc-labeled tetrofosmin (99mTc-tetrofosmin) gated SPECT and cine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Wall motion was assessed in 13 left ventricular segments using a 5-point scoring system ranging from 3 (normal) to-1 (dyskinetic). Exact agreement for wall motion scores between gated SPECT and MRI was excellent (92%, kappa=0.82). Furthermore, correlations between the two techniques were also good for end-diastolic volume (r=0.81, P<.0001), end-systolic volume (r=0.92, P<.0001), and ejection fraction (r=0.93, P<.0001). In patients with a recent myocardial infarction, 99mTc-tetrofosmin gated SPECT provides reliable evaluation of global and regional ventricular function and volumes.
The Effect of a Marathon Run on Plasma and Urine Mineral and Metal Concentrations

Background: Little data exist on the requirements of trace metals and minerals for endurance athletes. Changes in body status of these elements must be examined before specific nutritional recommendations can be made. This study was designed to determine whether a marathon run was associated with changes in serum and urine metal and mineral concentrations.Methods: Forty subjects who planned to complete the 1996 Houston-Tennaco marathon were recruited. Subjects had blood and urine samples collected 2 weeks prior to the race and immediately following the race. Blood and urine specimens were analyzed for copper, iron, magnesium and zinc concentrations. Blood was also analyzed for calcium concentration and ceruloplasmin activity.Results: Twenty-six subjects (24 male, 2 female) completed the marathon. Finish times varied between 2 hours 43 minutes and 5 hours 28 minutes. There was no significant change in serum calcium, copper or zinc concentrations or ceruloplasmin activity. Serum and urine magnesium concentr...
Cockroach genera whose adult males lack styles. Part II. (Dictyoptera, Blattaria, Blattellidae)

Diagnostic characters are given for the following 6 genera of Blattellidae (Blattellinae) whose adult ♂♂ lack styles: Astylella Princis, 1963 [Africa], Caffroblatta Rehn, 1922 [Africa], Jacobsonina Hebard, 1929 [Africa, Burma, India, North Vietnam, Sabah, Sumatra], Parascalida Hanitsch, 1936 [Celebes], Phymatosilpha Princis, 1962 [Africa], and Pseudoceratinoptera Hanitsch, 1937 [Africa]. Balta platysoma Walker, 1868 is transferred to Jacobsonina. Hemithyrsocera subcolorata (Walker, 1871) is synonymized with Jacobsonina platysoma (Walker, 1868). A number of known species are redescribed, a key is provided for distinguishing astylar ♂ genera, and their affinities are discussed.
Optical emission endpoint optimization in the tetra etch chamber for production of embedded phase-shift photomasks

The Etec Systems TetraTM photomask etch system is currently used to etch attenuated phase shift photomasks. Currently, MoSiON is a common film used for phase shifting. Either chrome or re sist can be used as a mask for etching this film. Because the quartz substrate etches with the same chemistry commonly used to etch MoSiON, precise endpoint control is necessary to meet the phase targeting requirements to create this type of phase-shifting mask. This paper will address techniques used to obtain precise endpoint control ofthe MoSiON-quartz boundary. Endpoint control is required for the precise phase targeting of 1 800 ± 1 .5° needed for advanced subwavelength patterning technologies. In this paper, optical emission spectroscopy is used to characterize and monitor chrome etch processes on the Etec Systems TetraTM photomask etch chamber. Changes in process conditions have been captured by time-averaged optical emission traces. Using multi-wavelength optical emission spectroscopy data collected during MoSiON etching, a fingerprint ofthe plasma can be taken. The fingerprint is used to detect changes in emission lines during the etch and determine the best wavelength for endpoint detection. Secondly, this paper will examine numerical methods ofendpoint optimization, including averaging, smoothing and derivative techniques.
In vitro methods to prepare astrocyte and motoneuron cultures for the investigation of potential in vivo interactions

This protocol details methods to isolate and purify astrocytes and motoneurons (MNs) from the chick lumbar spinal cord. In addition, an approach to study the influences of astrocyte secreted factors on MNs is provided. Astrocytes are isolated between embryonic days 10 and 12 (E10-12), propagated in serum (2-3 h) and differentiated in chemically defined medium (3-4 h). When prepared according to this protocol, astrocyte cultures are more than 98% pure when assessed using the astrocyte-specific markers glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and S100beta. MNs are isolated between E5.5 and 6.0 (3-4 h) using a procedure that takes selective advantage of the large size of these cells. These cultures can be maintained using individual trophic factors, target-derived factors or astrocyte-derived factors, the preparation of which is also described (5-6 h). All or part of these techniques can be used to investigate a variety of processes that occur during nervous system development and disease or after injury.
Public Attitudes Toward Water Management and Drought in the United States

Water management is becoming increasingly salient as climate change continues to alter the environment, resulting in more severe and frequent droughts. To address water management issues, large-scale projects may be needed. However, public support is often a prerequisite for governments at all levels to enact such projects. Given the growing importance of these issues, there are few recent studies that explore public attitudes, preferences, and risk assessments about water-related resource allocations. Will the public act to constrain the actions of their elected officials? Is the public ready to begin considering policies, regulations, and expenditures that address the potential impacts of increased drought frequency on local, state and national water resources? This research reports the results of two national public opinion surveys in the United States that focused on water management and drought issues. The results indicate that the public is willing to support government efforts to manage water, but not if they negatively affect the environment or agriculture.
Distribution and significance of chromium in meteorites

Chromium is present as a minor element in all meteorite types. Depending on the meteorite type it is lithophile (most frequent), chalcophile (less frequent), or siderophile (rare). Chromium is an indicator of physical and chemical conditions of meteorite formation, especially of the state of oxidation. The Cr contents of meteoritic chromites are related to classification and can be used to distinguish among meteorite types that contain this mineral. The distribution of Cr between coexisting pyroxenes may indicate the degree of equilibration of this mineral pair. Siderophile Cr appears to result from primitive condensation processes rather than secondary reduction processes. The lack of much experimental data on Cr in silicate systems limits the interpretation of the occurrences of Cr-silicate phases, ureyite and krinovite, in the meteorite type in which they occur.
On Estrogen, Cholesterol Metabolism, and Breast Cancer

Estrogen analogue 27-hydroxycholesterol, which binds to and modulates the estrogen receptor and the liver X receptor, has recently been implicated in the risk of breast cancer and liver cancer in mouse models.
A Determination of the Trade-Wind Cumuli Population Using BOMEX Data and an Axisymmetric Cloud Model.

Abstract A cumulus cloud population is determined over the trade-wind region under an undisturbed weather condition from the large-scale heat and moisture budgets. The BOMEX data during the period 22–23 June 1969 are used. Six classes of clouds (A–F) are considered. Each class of clouds changes the large-scale mean temperature and humidity through condensation, evaporation and convective transport processes. The change due to each class of clouds is determined using the time-dependent, two-dimensional, axisymmetric cloud model developed by Soong and Ogura (1973). It is found that the cloud population, consisting of 66.4 A clouds, 8.9 D clouds and 1.6 E clouds km−2 DAY−1, satisfies approximately the large-scale heat and moisture budget requirements. The cloud top heights of the three classes of clouds are 0.8, 1.6 and 2.0 km, respectively, and the cloud radii at the cloud base level during the mature stage are 62.5, 150 and 225 m, respectively. Consequently, the fractional area coverage of the predicted cl...
Biogeochemical processes controlling methane in gassy coastal sediments—Part 1. A model coupling organic matter flux to gas production, oxidation and transport

A new kinetic model has been developed for predicting biogeochemical processes occurring in gassy, anoxic sediments dominated by sulfate reduction (SR), methane production (MP), and methane oxidation (MO). The model is composed of mass conservation equations in which reaction rates are balanced by diffusive and advective transport. It directly couples bio-geochemical zones using error functions that serve as a toggle to simulate cessation of sulfate reduction, initiation of methane production and oxidation, and production of gaseous methane when in situ solubility is exceeded. Model-derived sulfate and methane concentration distributions combined with kinetic rate expressions are used to calculate rates of SR, MP and MO. Application of the model to gassy coastal and estuarine sediments reveals the extreme sensitivity of predicted methane distributions to the flux (FG) and degradation rate constant (kG) of reactive organic matter. Sulfate and methane concentrations from Eckernforde Bay in the Kiel Bight of the German Baltic Sea, and Cape Lookout Bight and the White Oak River Estuary of North Carolina, USA, can be predicted accurately from independently determined (FG) values. Comparison of model-predicted results with a complete set of measured summertime concentration and rate data from the Cape Lookout site shows that introduction of 10–40% variations in individual rate parameters produce readily observable discrepancies in model results. In general, increases in the magnitude of FG and decreases in kG at the same total sediment accumulation rate increase the relative importance of methanogenesis in total organic matter remineralization as a result of more rapid depletion of dissolved pore water sulfate closer to the sediment–water interface. The predictive capabilities of the model should prove useful when concentration, rate, or flux measurements are not available.
CD4+ T lymphocytes mediate acute pulmonary ischemia–reperfusion injury

Objective Postischemic reperfusion of the lung triggers proinflammatory responses that stimulate injurious neutrophil chemotaxis. We hypothesized that T lymphocytes are recruited and activated during reperfusion and mediate subsequent neutrophil-induced lung ischemia–reperfusion injury. Methods An in vivo mouse model of lung ischemia–reperfusion injury was used. C57BL/6 mice were assigned to either the sham group (left thoracotomy) or 7 study groups that underwent 1-hour left hilar occlusion followed by 1 to 24 hours of reperfusion. After in vivo reperfusion, the lungs were perfused ex vivo with buffer whereby pulmonary function was assessed. Lung vascular permeability, edema, neutrophil accumulation, and cytokine/chemokine production (tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin 17, CCL3, and CXCL1) were assessed based on Evans blue dye leak, wet/dry weight ratio, myeloperoxidase level, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. Results A preliminary study showed that 2 hours of reperfusion resulted in greater pulmonary dysfunction than 1 or 24 hours of reperfusion. The 2-hour reperfusion period was thus used for the remaining experiments. Comparable and significant protection from ischemia–reperfusion injury–induced lung dysfunction and injury occurred after antibody depletion of neutrophils or CD4 + T cells but not CD8 + T cells ( P + T-cell depletion but not vice versa. Conclusions Both CD4 + T lymphocytes and neutrophils accumulate during reperfusion and contribute sequentially to lung ischemia–reperfusion injury. The data suggest that neutrophils mediate ischemia–reperfusion injury; however, CD4 + T cells play a critical role in stimulating chemokine production and neutrophil chemotaxis during ischemia–reperfusion injury.
The cranial morphology of Kayentachelys, an Early Jurassic cryptodire, and the early history of turtles

Gaffney, E.S. and Jenkins, F.A., Jr. 2010. The cranial morphology of Kayentachelys, an Early Jurassic cryptodire, and the early history of turtles. — Acta Zoologica (Stockholm) 91: 335–368 The skull morphology of Kayentachelys aprixGaffney et al., 1987, a turtle from the Early Jurassic Kayenta Fm of northern Arizona, demonstrates the presence of cryptodiran synapomorphies in agreement with Gaffney et al. (1987, 1991, 2007), and contrary to the conclusions of Sterli and Joyce (2007), Joyce (2007), Sterli (2008), and Anquetin et al. (2008). Specific characters found in Kayentachelys and diagnostic of cryptodires include the processus trochlearis oticum, the curved processus pterygoideus externus with a vertical plate, and the prefrontal–vomer contact, which are confirmed as absent in the outgroups, specifically the Late Triassic Proganochelys. The Joyce (2007) analysis suffers from the reduction of the signal from skull characters, with a consequently greater reliance on shell characters, resulting in pleurodires being resolved at various positions within the cryptodires. Kayentachelys reveals what a primitive cryptodire would be expected to look like: a combination of primitive and derived characters, with the fewer derived characters providing the best test of its relationships to other turtles. Although incompletely known, the Mid-Late Jurassic Condorchelys, Heckeremys, and Eileanchelys may be early cryptodires close to Kayentachelys. We confirm the Late Triassic Proterochersis as a pleurodire, dating the pleurodire–cryptodire split as Late Triassic or earlier.
Removal of the inferior olive abolishes myoclonic seizures associated with a loss of olivary serotonin

Several lines of clinical evidence suggest that myoclonus is caused by a reduction of serotonin in the brain and hyperactivity of the inferior olive. We determined whether a change in serotonin content within the olivocerebellar system accompanied a predisposition to myoclonus and investigated the necessity of the inferior olive for a myoclonic seizure. The experiments employed the genetically epilepsy-prone rat that exhibits a profound myoclonic seizure in response to an auditory stimulus. We found that these animals demonstrated a significant reduction in the serotonergic innervation of the inferior olive without a significant change in the serotonergic innervation at any other level of the olivocerebellar circuit. The deficit in olivary serotonin was verified physiologically and pharmacologically by a reduced sensitivity of the genetically epilepsy-prone rat to the tremorogenic effect of harmaline, which is known to produce tremor through a mechanism that requires serotonergic innervation of the inferior olive. We quantified the timing of the myoclonic seizure of the genetically epilepsy-prone rat and found that its large amplitude 2-6 Hz clonus was always preceded by 9-10 Hz tremor that was synchronized among limbs. Ablation of the inferior olive by 3-acetylpyridine abolished the myoclonic seizure. The specificity of the deficit in olivary serotonin, the timing of the seizure, and the demonstration of the necessity of the inferior olive for myoclonus suggest that pathological inferior olivary activity contributes to the genesis of a myoclonic seizure.
Decision criteria do not shift: commentary on Mueller and Weidemann (2008).

The effects of base rates and payoffs on the shapes of rating receiver operating characteristic curves are inconsistent with the basic assumptions of signal detection theory (SDT), in particular the notion of a shifting decision criterion. Mueller and Weidemann (2008) propose that these unexpected phenomena are not due to problems with the decision- criterion construct but are instead due to two compounded effects: instability of the decision criterion across trials, and even greater instability in the flanking criteria that determine which confidence rating will be reported. There are several problems with the authors’ decision-noise hypothesis. First, even if their hypothesis about decision noise were taken for granted, the key feature of the ratings data that rejects the SDT model would remain a mystery. Second, the same violations of SDT that are exhibited in the ratings paradigm are also exhibited in the yes-no detection task when response time is substituted for confidence as a basis for analysis. Finally, the decision-noise hypothesis predicts that sensitivity will increase when one source of this variation-the response on a previous trial-is controlled for. This prediction was consistently violated in both the yes-no and ratings conditions of Mueller and Weidemann’s experiment. In an Addendum, we respond to Weidemann and Mueller’s (2008) reply to this Comment.
Motion Silences the Perception of Changing Image Quality in Naturalistic Videos

Failure to detect changes in stimulus luminance (or color, etc.) termed “silencing” occurs in the presence of rapid motion (Suchow and Alvarez, 2011). It is possible that silencing is useful in naturalistic contexts, serving to suppress the perception of cast shadows on moving objects, say, or preventing video artifacts from being distracting. We conducted human experiments examining the perception of “flicker” caused by variation in image quality for moving objects in videos. 42 naive subjects evaluated the amount of perceived flicker of moving objects in the random ordered 36 test videos, which included six flicker-free reference videos and 30 degraded, flickering videos. The flicker was generated by alternating video frames of different quality levels (e.g.: bad, poor, good, and excellent). An eye and head tracker (faceLAB 5, Seeing Machines) was used to monitor gaze position (subjects’ heads were unrestrained), and subjects reported their percepts by moving a mouse continuously throughout the stimulus presentation. The results indicate that the reduction of the visibility of flickering in natural videos depends on both the overall video quality and the speed of motion. When the video quality was high, the perceptual visibility of flickering is low and less sensitive to motion, whereas when the video quality was poor, the impact is large. Furthermore, although subjects held their gaze on the moving objects, lessflicker was seen on fast-moving objects. We interpret this result to suggest that large coherent motions near the fixation point might silence the awareness of flickering on natural videos. The responsible mechanism might be useful in the real world, where the light coming from moving objects can change dramatically (due to passing through areas of light and shadow, e.g.) even for a rigid object with a constant trajectory.
Strategic competitive location: improving existing and establishing new facilities

Competitive facility location models consider two main strategies for increasing the market share captured by a chain subject to a budget constraint. One strategy is the improvement of existing facilities. The second strategy is the construction of new facilities. In this paper we analyse these two strategies as well as the joint strategy which is a combination of the two. All three strategies are formulated as a unified model. The best solution to an individual strategy is a feasible solution to the joint one. Therefore, the joint strategy must yield solutions that are at least as good as the solutions to each of the individual strategies. Based on the results of extensive experiments, we conclude that the increase in market share captured by a chain when the joint strategy is employed can be significantly higher than increases obtained by individual strategies. A branch and bound procedure and a tabu search heuristic are constructed for the solution of the unified model. Both algorithms performed very well on a set of test problems with up to 900 demand points. A total of 62% of the test problems were optimally solved by the branch and bound procedure.
The ventricular complex in esophageal electrocardiography

Abstract 1. 1. The esophageal patterns recorded by multiple esophageal electrodes are described in normal and hypertrophied hearts and in posterior infarction. 2. 2. There is a definite transition zone in which the electrocardiographic pattern changes from that representing ventricular surface to that reflecting left ventricular cavity. 3. 3. In this zone there is a variability as to the levels of appearance of ventricular surface and ventricular cavity potentials and of the atrial intrinsic deflections. 4. 4. Lead VF and the lower esophageal leads consistently reflect the electrocardiographic pattern of the diaphragmatic surface of the heart, both in normal patients and in those with infarction. 5. 5. The application of esophageal electrocardiography in the diagnosis of localized posterior myocardial infarction is discussed.
Automatically Generating Form Concepts According to Consumer Preference: A Shape Grammar Implementation With Software Agents

In new product development, quickly generating many concepts that a potential consumer prefers is a challenge. This paper presents the inaugural application of software agents implementing a shape grammar to generate product designs according to a utility function that represents consumer preference. The method is composed of three sub-processes: a shape grammar interpreter, an agent interpreter, and a utility investigator. These work together to explore the design space and can constrain product form designs according to a utility function that represents consumer design preference.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Between global dreams and national duties: the dilemma of conscription duty in the transnational lives of young Korean males

In this study, I examine the dilemmas arising from the tension between citizen duties and youthful aspirations in a globalizing world. The state's requirement of military conscription structures the transnational lives of young Korean male migrants. More particularly, the timeline for serving the duty works as a primary temporal reference for the males' initial migration planning and future projections. Drawn from ethnographic fieldwork and in-depth interviews among a community of young Koreans in New Jersey, USA, my research reveals that their life planning in accordance with this institutional schedule is vulnerable to unexpected changes. The consequences are potentially detrimental to their futures, which not only differ from their individual ideals but also contain a high risk of marginalization both in Korea and in the USA. Building on the transnational migration literature, which focuses predominantly on spatiality, individual rights/agency and the marginalization of women migrants, I am concerned with temporality, citizens' duties and the constraints of masculinity as important parts of unravelling the complexities of transnational life.
Simulation of the airway

Simulation can be used to prepare the surgical and other skills of otolaryngology residents prior to performing the procedures and actions in the clinical environment. Virtual reality environments, including haptic devices, which recreate the sense of touch have made such training possible. Airway emergencies are challenging and life-threatening medical crises that can be repeatedly practiced in a simulated environment until a specified level of competency has been attained. During an airway crisis with rapidly developing hypoxia and asphyxia, where time is of the essence, interpersonal and communication skills are essential for efficient teamwork. These teamwork skills can be practiced in a high fidelity, realistically simulated clinical environment under the rubric of crisis resource management. With the availability of virtual reality machines, it has become an ethical imperative to train residents prior to patient contact.
THE NEW MALONE ANTEGRADE CONTINENCE ENEMA AUTOMATIC INSTILLATION DEVICE ALLOWS INDEPENDENCE AND DECREASES FLUSH TIMES

ABSTRACT Purpose: The Malone antegrade continence enema procedure has changed the lives of many school-aged children who would otherwise be in diapers. Unfortunately, our current procedures to flush the Malone antegrade continence enema are difficult to accomplish independently and require an extensive time commitment. In this study we confirm that a new device, the ACE Malone automatic instillation device (ACE-MAID) is safe and effective, will decrease the time it takes to perform the flush and will increase independence. Materials and Methods: Nine patients were prospectively enrolled for a 1-year study. Patient age ranged from 4 to 16 years, and diagnoses included spina bifida (3 cases), imperforate anus (4) and infantile meningitis (1). The study consisted of initial and followup questionnaires, an "ACE-O-Gram," quality assurance testing of the ACE-MAID and an objective observation of current flushing technique. Results: The average objective start to finish flush time decreased from 45 minutes initially to 31 minutes using the ACE-MAID. Children who initially had more than 1 accident per month had a decrease in the number of stool accidents. When asked to compare the ACE-MAID device to the previous form of flushing 100% of patients stated that it was better. When asked if they would use the pump when the study was over 100% reported yes. Conclusions: The new ACE-MAID proved safe and effective, decreased flush times, may decrease stool accidents and facilitates independence for children treated with a MACE procedure.
Closed-Loop Artificial Pancreas Systems: Engineering the Algorithms

In this two-part Bench to Clinic narrative, recent advances in both the preclinical and clinical aspects of artificial pancreas (AP) development are described. In the preceding Bench narrative, Kudva and colleagues provide an in-depth understanding of the modified glucoregulatory physiology of type 1 diabetes that will help refine future AP algorithms. In the Clinic narrative presented here, we compare and evaluate AP technology to gain further momentum toward outpatient trials and eventual approval for widespread use. We enumerate the design objectives, variables, and challenges involved in AP development, concluding with a discussion of recent clinical advancements. Thanks to the effective integration of engineering and medicine, the dream of automated glucose regulation is nearing reality. Consistent and methodical presentation of results will accelerate this success, allowing head-to-head comparisons that will facilitate adoption of the AP as a standard therapy for type 1 diabetes.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in fish and crayfish from the Calumet region of southwestern Lake Michigan

We identified and quantified polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in six aquatic taxa from the Calumet region of southwestern Lake Michigan in order to examine their differential exposure to and health risks from PAH. There was a high degree of variation in PAH concentrations across and within sites. Mean concentrations of total PAH were high in alewife (1,064 ng/g) and minnows (345 ng/g) collected from the Indiana Ship Canal, when compared to other taxa and locations. Concentrations of PAH in sunfish were relatively low (10 to 79 ng/g), even where environmental concentrations were elevated. In sunfish, regardless of location, concentrations of CHR, FLA, FLU, PHE and PYR were high whereas DBA, IPE, BAP, BBF, BGP and BKF concentrations were low. PAH concentrations in crayfish exceeded those of other taxa at three of four locations where they co-occurred. PAH profiles were similar in crayfish, sunfish and minnows from locations where sediment concentrations were low. Profiles for crayfish and minnows from a location where sediment concentrations were elevated displayed lower concentrations of ACY, and higher concentrations of BAA, BBF, and BKF, than those from the other three locations. In contrast, the profiles in sunfish from those three locations were similar. The PHE/ANT and FLA/PYR ratios for crayfish, minnows and sunfish suggested that the primary sources at most locations were pyrogenic, although some sites had strong petrogenic influences. Toxic equivalency factors in biota generally reflected the magnitude of sediment contamination. In three of four locations where they co-occurred, TEQs were higher in crayfish than in sunfish and minnows. Sunfish had higher TEQs than minnows at most, though not all, locations; TEQs were notably higher in minnows as compared to sunfish from the Little Calumet River. The selection of aquatic species as sentinels of PAH exposure and risks needs to consider differences in ecologies of taxa as well as the relative magnitude of sediment contamination.
Decoupling of the quasistatic system of thermoelasticity on the unit disk

The quasi-static, linearized thermoclastic system on the unit disk is decoupied, such that the temperature satisfies an integro-differential equation. The result, based on the function theoretic method, is of both theoretical and numerical interest.
Exchange Rate Fluctuations and the Macro-Economy: Channels of Interaction in Developing and Developed Countries

The paper analyzes interactions between exchange rate fluctuations and the macro-economy in a sample of developing and developed countries. The effect of currency depreciation is particularly pervasive in decreasing consumption and investment across developing countries. Given the high dependency on imported goods in developing countries, currency appreciation decreases competitiveness and, therefore, export growth without a significant negative effect on imports. The trade balance generally improves as currency depreciation boosts export competitiveness in many developing countries. In contrast, the reduction (increase) in exports with respect to currency appreciation (depreciation) may be matched by a reduction (increase) in the domestic value of imports in many industrial countries.
α-Subunit and Gonadotropin Responses to Luteinizing Hormone-Releasing Hormone in Hyperprolactinemic Women before and after Bromocriptine

α-Subunit and gonadotropin responses to a LHRH infusion (0.2 μg/min) for 4 h were studied in eight hyperprolactinemic amenorrheic women, ages 23–40, and in five normal women in the early follicular phase of the menstrual cycle. Basal α-subunit and LH concentrations were comparable to normal women; however, basal FSH concentrations were significantly (P < 0.05) lower. Peak serum α, LH, and FSH concentrations during the LHRH infusion were significantly higher than controls (P < 0.01, P < 0.05, and P < 0.01, respectively). Gel chromatography of serum confirmed the presence of both free α-subunit and intact LH which had normal biological activity. Six of the women were restudied in the early follicular phase of the cycle after return of normal ovulatory function and normalization of serum PRL concentrations. During bromocriptine therapy, peak serum α, LH, and FSH concentrations decreased significantly (P < 0.02, P < 0.05, and P < 0.001, respectively) and were comparable to control subjects. The changes in ser...
The Rationale, Implementation, and Effect of the Medicare CKD Education Benefit

Although it affects <1% of the US population, stage 4 chronic kidney disease (CKD) has increased in prevalence in the United States, grown 67% between the early 1990s and the first part of this decade. It is important to consider new strategies to slow or halt this increase. A frameshift in patient care delivery is underway in kidney health care in the United States with a Medicare education benefit for patients with stage 4 CKD. This Medicare benefit is a unique program that has the potential to inform patients and families about CKD and prepare them for transitions in health states and kidney health care. For the greatest value of this benefit to be realized, it is critical for the health care community to accurately gauge patient understanding of CKD and provide curricula that are comprehensible and actionable for patients. This type of benefit is patient centered, yet it will succeed only with a willingness to review its effectiveness and revise it if needed.
Effect of guanabenz and hydrochlorothiazide on blood pressure and plasma renin activity.

: Patients with mild to moderate essential hypertension were treated with guanabenz plus placebo (26 patients) or guanabenz plus hydrochlorothiazide (26 patients) for one year. Ambulatory plasma renin activity was determined during placebo treatment, after four weeks and one year of treatment with the study drugs, and one month after discontinuation of guanabenz while continuing the same hydrochlorothiazide dosage. Treatment with guanabenz plus hydrochlorothiazide proved more satisfactory than treatment with guanabenz plus placebo in that fewer patients were treatment failures, a smaller dosage of guanabenz was required, better control of supine blood pressure was achieved, and no increase in guanabenz dosage was needed to maintain chronic blood pressure control. Drowsiness, dry mouth, and dizziness were the side effects noted most commonly. Plasma renin activity was not significantly suppressed by chronic guanabenz therapy. Thus, guanabenz is an effective new antihypertensive that provides optimal blood pressure control when used with a diuretic.