cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Linguistics and face recognition

We describe in this paper a novel biometric methodology for face recognition suitable to address pose, illumination, and expression (PIE) image variability, temporal change, flexible matching, and last but not least occlusion and disguise that are usually referred to as denial and deception. The adverse conditions listed above affect the scope and performance of biometric analysis vis-a-vis both training and testing. The conceptual framework proposed here draws support from discriminative methods using likelihood ratios. At the conceptual level it links forensics and biometrics, while at the implementation level it links the Bayesian framework and statistical learning theory. As many of the concerns listed usually affect only parts of the face, a non-parametric recognition-by-part approach is advanced here for the purpose of reliable face recognition. Recognition-by-parts facilitates authentication because it does not seek for explicit invariance. Instead, it handles variability using component-based configurations that are flexible enough to compensate among others for limited pose changes, if any, and limited occlusion and disguise. The recognition-by-parts approach proposed here supports incremental and progressive processing. It is similar in nature to modern linguistics and practical intelligence with the emphasis on semantics and pragmatics. Layered categorization starts with face detection using implicit rather than explicit segmentation. It proceeds with face authentication that involves feature selection of local patch instances including dimensionality reduction, exemplar-based clustering of patches into parts, and data fusion for matching using boosting driven by parts that play the role of weak learners. The implementation, driven by transduction, employs proximity and typicality (ranking) realized using strangeness and random deficiency p-values, respectively. The feasibility and reliability of the proposed architecture has been validated using FERET and FRGC data. The paper concludes with suggestions for augmenting and enhancing the scope and utility of the recognition-by-parts architecture.
Registration of ‘Clara CL’ wheat

‘Clara CL’ (Reg. No. CV-XX; PI 665948) hard white winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivar was developed at the Agricultural Research Center–Hays, Kansas State University and released by the Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station in 2011. Clara CL carries one Clearfield gene and has tolerance to imazamox herbicide. Clara CL was selected from a single cross of KS03HW154/KS03HW1 using a modified bulk breeding method. Both parental lines are unreleased hard white winter experimental lines from Kansas State University. The objective of the cross was to develop a hard white winter wheat variety with herbicide resistance and adaptation to the semiarid area in western Kansas. Clara CL was released because of its tolerance to imazamox herbicide, high grain yield potential under nonirrigated conditions in western Kansas, preharvest sprouting tolerance, and good disease and insect resistance. T.J. Martin and G. Zhang, Agricultural Research Center–Hays, Kansas State Univ., Hays, KS 67601; A.K. Fritz, Dep. of Agronomy, Kansas State Univ., Manhattan, KS 66506; R. Miller, Dep. of Grain Science and Industry, Kansas State Univ., Manhattan, KS 66506; M.-S. Chen, USDA–ARS, Hard Winter Wheat Genetics Research Unit, Kansas State Univ., Manhattan, KS 66506. Registration by CSSA. Received 23 July 2013. *Corresponding author (gzhang@ksu.edu). Abbreviations: ARCH, Agricultural Research Center–Hays; AYN, advanced yield nursery; HWWW, hard white winter wheat; KIN, Kansas Intra-State Nursery; KSU, Kansas State University; PPO, polyphenol oxidase; PYN, preliminary yield nursery; SBMV, Soil-borne mosaic virus; SRPN, Southern Regional Performance Nursery; WQC, Wheat Quality Council; WSMV, Wheat streak mosaic virus. ‘Clara CL’ (Reg. No. CV-XX; PI 665948) is a hard white winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) (HWWW) variety developed at the Agricultural Research Center–Hays (ARCH), Kansas State University (KSU), and released by the Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station in 2011. Clara CL was selected from the single cross KS03HW154/KS03HW1. Both parental lines, KS03HW154 and KS03HW1, are unreleased hard white winter experimental lines developed at ARCH. KS03HW154 is a sister line to ‘RonL’ (PI 648020) with the pedigree ‘Trego’ (PI 612576; Martin et al., 2001)/CO960293. KS03HW1 was derived from the four-way cross FS2/KS97HW150//KS97HW349/3/Trego. FS2 is a proprietary wheat germplasm developed by BASF Corporation (formerly American Cyanamid) through induced mutagenesis, and it carries Als1 locus (D genome) conferring tolerance to the imidazolinone class of herbicides (also known as Beyond herbicide) (Newhouse et al., 1992). Clara CL is an F6–derived line, which was tested as experimental line number KS08HW35-1. Clara CL was released because of its imazamox herbicide tolerance, high grain yield potential in the dryland production system in western Kansas, preharvest sprouting tolerance, and good resistance to the major diseases in western Kansas. CL in the name stands for Clearfield, the trademark for Beyond herbicide tolerance.
Application of Fractal Geometry to Fracture Forensics, Research and Production

The fracture surface records past events that occur during the fracture process by leaving characteristic markings. The application of fractal geometry aids in the interpretation and understanding of these events. Quantitative fractographic analysis of brittle fracture surfaces shows that these characteristic markings are self-similar and scale invariant, thus implying that fractal analysis is a reasonable approach to analyzing these surfaces. The fractal dimensional increment, D*, is directly proportional to the fracture energy, γ, during fracture for many brittle materials, i.e., γ = ½ E a0 D* where E is the elastic modulus and a0 is a structural parameter. Also, D* is equal to the crack-size-to-mirror-radius ratio. Using this information can aid in identifying toughening mechanisms in new materials, distinguishing poorly fabricated from well prepared material and identifying stress at fracture for field failures. Examples of the application of fractal analysis in research, fracture forensics and solving production problems are discussed.
Models of lon and substrate cotransport and the effect of the membrane potential

The implications of a carrier model of ion and substrate cotransport are worked out. Each carrier is assumed to have one ion and one substrate binding site. The model includes features that have not been included in previously published models. These features are the effect of the membrane potential and of the assumption that all carrier forms, with or without bound substrate and with or without various bound ions, can cross the membrane. The model is of a two-state (gate-type) carrier with transition rate constants. In one state the carrier interacts with outer bulk phase; in the other state it interacts with the inner bulk phase. Equilibrium in the reactions between ion, substrate, and carrier is assumed at each surface.
Proton beam therapy for the treatment of prostate cancer

Proton beam therapy (PBT) offers the potential of dose escalation to target tissue while decreasing toxicity through unique physical dose deposition characteristics. PBT has been used to treat prostate cancer for several decades; however, recent enhancements in availability and treatment delivery have peaked interest in this technology among radiation oncologists, industry experts, and prostate cancer patients. As a result, the importance of understanding the collective experience and technical aspects of PBT delivery has become increasingly important in radiation medicine. This review article is intended to critically review the literature on PBT for localized prostate cancer, discuss the fundamentals of PBT treatment planning, and describe the continued development of proton beam technology for the treatment of prostate cancer.
Mucosal CD30-positive T-cell lymphoproliferations of the head and neck show a clinicopathologic spectrum similar to cutaneous CD30-positive T-cell lymphoproliferative disorders

CD30-positive T-cell lymphoproliferative disorders are classified as cutaneous (primary cutaneous anaplastic large cell lymphoma and lymphomatoid papulosis) or systemic. As extent of disease dictates prognosis and treatment, patients with skin involvement need clinical staging to determine whether systemic lymphoma also is present. Similar processes may involve mucosal sites of the head and neck, constituting a spectrum that includes both neoplasms and reactive conditions (eg, traumatic ulcerative granuloma with stromal eosinophilia). However, no standard classification exists for mucosal CD30-positive T-cell lymphoproliferations. To improve our understanding of these processes, we identified 15 such patients and examined clinical presentation, treatment and outcome, morphology, phenotype using immunohistochemistry, and genetics using gene rearrangement studies and fluorescence in situ hybridization. The 15 patients (11 M, 4 F; mean age, 57 years) had disease involving the oral cavity/lip/tongue (9), orbit/conjunctiva (3) or nasal cavity/sinuses (3). Of 14 patients with staging data, 7 had mucosal disease only; 2 had mucocutaneous disease; and 5 had systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma. Patients with mucosal or mucocutaneous disease only had a favorable prognosis and none developed systemic spread (follow-up, 4-93 months). Three of five patients with systemic disease died of lymphoma after 1-48 months. Morphologic and phenotypic features were similar regardless of extent of disease. One anaplastic lymphoma kinase-positive case was associated with systemic disease. Two cases had rearrangements of the DUSP22-IRF4 locus on chromosome 6p25.3, seen most frequently in primary cutaneous anaplastic large cell lymphoma. Our findings suggest mucosal CD30-positive T-cell lymphoproliferations share features with cutaneous CD30-positive T-cell lymphoproliferative disorders, and require clinical staging for stratification into primary and secondary types. Primary cases have clinicopathologic features closer to primary cutaneous disease than to systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma, including indolent clinical behavior. Understanding the spectrum of mucosal CD30-positive T-cell lymphoproliferations is important to avoid possible overtreatment resulting from a diagnosis of overt T-cell lymphoma.
Chronic treatment of cultured cerebral vascular smooth cells with low concentration of ethanol elevates intracellular calcium and potentiates prostanoid-induced rises in [Ca2+]i: relation to etiology of alcohol-induced stroke.

Abstract The influence of chronic treatment of cultured canine cerebral vascular smooth muscle cells, with low concentrations of ethanol, on the intracellular concentrations of free calcium ([Ca 2+ ] i ) was studied by use of the fluorescent indicator, fura-2, and digital imaging microscopy. The resting level of [Ca 2+ ] i in the cerebral vascular smooth muscle cells was 89 ± 3.2 nM. Exposure of these cells to 10 and 25 mM ethanol for 5 days resulted in significant elevation of [Ca 2+ ] i (mean rises to 208 ± 11.4 and 307 ± 14.0 nM, respectively), and potentiated the transient rise in [Ca 2+ ] i induced by 10 −7 M PGF 2α . However, exposure of these cerebral cells to a high-concentration ethanol (100 mM) resulted in only a slight increase of [Ca 2+ ] i (106 ± 6.9 nM) and lack of effects on the [Ca 2+ ] i response to PGF 2α . Irrespective of the different ethanol treatments, the subcellular distribution of [Ca 2+ ] i was heterogeneous in all the cells tested. Our data suggest that chronic exposure of cerebral vascular smooth muscle cells to ethanol, particularly at low concentrations, results in dramatic increases in [Ca 2+ ] i and the responses of these vascular smooth muscle cells to prostanoids. These results support an hypothesis whereby ethanol induces stroke by causing spasm and rupture of cerebral blood vessels as a consequence of large rises in intracellular Ca 2+ .
Multifunctional iron platinum stealth immunomicelles: targeted detection of human prostate cancer cells using both fluorescence and magnetic resonance imaging

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) are the most common type of contrast agents used in contrast agent-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Still, there is a great deal of room for improvement, and nanoparticles with increased MRI relaxivities are needed to increase the contrast enhancement in MRI applied to various medical conditions including cancer. We report the synthesis of superparamagnetic iron platinum nanoparticles (SIPPs) and subsequent encapsulation using PEGylated phospholipids to create stealth immunomicelles (DSPE-SIPPs) that can be specifically targeted to human prostate cancer cell lines and detected using both MRI and fluorescence imaging. SIPP cores and DSPE-SIPPs were 8.5 ± 1.6 nm and 42.9 ± 8.2 nm in diameter, respectively, and the SIPPs had a magnetic moment of 120 A m2/kg iron. J591, a monoclonal antibody against prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA), was conjugated to the DSPE-SIPPs (J591-DSPE-SIPPs), and specific targeting of J591-DSPE-SIPPs to PSMA-expressing human prostate cancer cell lines was demonstrated using fluorescence confocal microscopy. The transverse relaxivity of the DSPE-SIPPs, measured at 4.7 Tesla, was 300.6 ± 8.5 s−1 mM−1, which is 13-fold better than commercially available SPIONs (23.8 ± 6.9 s−1 mM−1) and ~3-fold better than reported relaxivities for Feridex® and Resovist®. Our data suggest that J591-DSPE-SIPPs specifically target human prostate cancer cells in vitro, are superior contrast agents in T2-weighted MRI, and can be detected using fluorescence imaging. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the synthesis of multifunctional SIPP micelles and using SIPPs for the specific detection of prostate cancer.
Evaluation of polymer and self-assembled monolayer-coated silicone surfaces to reduce neural cell growth

Abstract The development of silicone catheters has improved the treatment of hydrocephalus. Unfortunately, the functionality of the catheters used for the treatment of hydrocephalus is compromised by cell obstruction. In this study silicone surfaces coated with biopolymers (heparin and hyaluronan) and self-assembled monolayers (SAM) (octadecyltrichlorosilane—OTS and fluoroalkylsilane—FAS) were employed to investigate the effect of these coatings on astrocyte and choroid plexus cell growth in vitro. Compared to unmodified silicone, FAS surfaces significantly reduced ( p 0.05 ) astrocyte proliferation, heparin ( p 0.001 ) and hyaluronan ( p 0.001 ) surfaces significantly increased astrocyte growth, while no significant difference was observed on OTS surfaces. A similar trend was observed for choroid plexus cell growth on heparin ( p 0.05 ) and hyaluronan ( p 0.05 ) coatings, however, no significant reduction in cell growth was observed on FAS- or OTS-coated surfaces compared to silicone. Low cell growth may be attributed to hydrophobicity of the surfaces (FAS 112.2±2.6°, OTS 102.2±1.3°). Contact angle measurements confirmed the stability of the hydrophobic and hydrophilic properties of all the coatings on the silicone surfaces for 30 days. Surface roughness did not play an important role on cell growth. Silicone shunts coated with SAMs may be suitable for future clinical applications to improve the treatment of hydrocephalus.
Roosts and activity areas of Nyctinomops macrotis in northern Arizona

Female big free-tailed bats Nyctinomops macrotis have been captured over water in northern Arizona in high elevation (> 2,400 m) forests and low elevation (1,500 m) desert scrub vegetation. We hypothesized that roost sites were in vertical walls of cliffs that were up to 25 km away from capture sites given the flight capability of these bats. During summer 2005 we captured eight females over ponds and attached radio transmitters to locate day roosts. We also identified locations used during nightly movements from 1 to 6 nights of radio tracking. We found three day roosts for seven bats; average distance (± SE) from a capture site to a roost was 12.1 ± 3.0 km. Roosts were small maternity colonies used by ≥ four N. macrotis in cracks or crevices in upper portions of vertical cliffs and faced south or southeast. Average dimensions for ponds where we found N. macrotis were 24 × 46 m, larger than the average pond size (14 × 19 m) where we did not capture this species. We identified 73 night locations for five N. macrotis and for one individual with 32 night locations calculated a 95% activity area (minimum convex polygon method) of 29,590 ha. Straight line distance between successive locations averaged 5.1 ± 0.8 km. Maximum distance detected from roost averaged 25.3 ± 4.9 km. We conservatively estimated a maximum flight speed of 61 km per hour. Most locations were in desert scrub vegetation but three bats moved to higher elevations, using pinyon-juniper (Pinus edulis-Juniperus spp.) woodland and ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) forest. The maternity roosts we located for N. macrotis were remote, difficult to access, and within protected areas (national parks) in northern Arizona; however, foraging areas and ponds used for drinking are managed by different public or private agencies. These features are not as well protected and could be critically important in this arid environment.
Probabilistic nondestructive evaluation of bonded aluminum honeycomb structures

Aluminum honeycomb panels fabricated in accordance with spacecraft fracture control guidelines must be evaluated to a 90/95 POD/CL (probability of detection/confidence) level for detection of the critical initial flaw (CIF) size. Severe weight limitations can drive the CIF to a size of one cell diameter, or smaller. Additionally, producibility (low or no type II errors) must be maintained, and inspection costs minimized. To assure these goals, a reliability demonstration program was undertaken on thin skin panels for the Space Station Electric Power System ORU (orbital replacement unit) enclosures. This paper examines the probabilistic NDE process in detail, including: analysis of the manufacturing methodology, expected flaw types, construction of the disbond flaw data base, and the subsequent evaluations and results using laser shearography. The experimental data is then reduced utilizing the statistical methodology outlined in a proposed military standard for NDE reliability demonstrations, and contrasted against conventional through transmission ultrasonic inspection. The effort revealed that substantial gains in system reliability and flaw type discrimination are possible with laser shearography, along with a nearly order of magnitude reduction in inspection time.
Tissue culture analysis of neurogenesis: myelination and synapse formation are retarded by serum deprivation.

Abstract Explants from newborn mouse cerebellum were cultured in nutrient media containing either adequate (30%) or low (15% or 7.5%) serum content. By light microscopic observation, delayed and inhibited myelination was detected in cultures fed with low serum media (experimental cultures). Specific activities of two enzymes related to myelin synthesis, 2′,3′-cyclic nucleotide-3′-phosphohydrolase and 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase, were also reduced in experimental cultures. Morphometric analysis of electron micrographs showed that the size of presynaptic endings and total area occupied by synapses in experimental cultures were substantially reduced, while synaptic density per unit area increased. Reflecting the results of synaptic underdevelopment, the levels of two neurotransmitter enzymes, choline acetyltransferase and glutamic acid decar☐ylase, were also decreased in experimental cultures.
Measuring Individual Differences in Trait Sympathy: Instrument Construction and Validation

In 3 studies, I report on the construction and validation of a multifaceted, self-report measure of an individual's tendency to experience feelings of sorrow or concern for the suffering of others. The Trait Sympathy Scales (TSS) displayed solid properties of reliability (Studies 1-3), content validity (Study 1), factorial validity (Study 1), construct-related validity (Studies 1-3), convergent and discriminant validity (Study 2), as well as predictive validity (Study 3). Findings support the TSS as a sound instrument that offers several advantages over Davis's (1980) Empathic Concern subscale.
The Devil's Brew in Pakistan

In February 2006, Vice President Dick Cheney slipped unannounced into Islamabad to press Pakistan to do more to block the Taliban's anticipated spring offensive in Afghanistan. Within hours of Cheney's departure the government of President Pervez Musharraf arrested Obaidullah Akhund, a former Taliban defense minister, in the western city of Quetta. Islamabad probably assumed that the apprehension of a highvalue Taliban leader would win it gratitude in Washington. Moreover, the arrest seemed very much in line with Pakistan's own interests, since Musharraf has repeatedly said that extremists represent an existential threat to the country. "These people are endangering Pakistan's image and its security and should leave, or they will be dealt with," the president declared a few days after the Cheney visit.1 Yet, if Pakistani leaders hoped that Akhund's arrest would take some of the heat off Islamabad, they did not understand the extent to which Washington has come to view Pakistan as a major part of the problem. Testifying before a Senate committee the day after the Cheney visit to Islamabad, the U.S. director of national intelligence revealed that he was "very concerned" that Osama bin Laden and the al Qaeda leadership were rebuilding their networks in northwest Pakistan, which he described as "the seams or the weak spots" in the fight against terrorism. "Pakistan is our partner in the war on terror," John M. McConnell told the senators. "However, it is also a major source of Islamic extremism."2 Two weeks earlier, the outgoing U.S. commander in Afghanistan Lt. Gen. Karl W. Eikenberry told a House committee that the al Qaeda and Taliban leadership presence inside Pakistan "remains a very significant problem" for American and NATO forces, and also warned of a "growing threat of Talibanization" inside Pakistan.3 Thus, rather than demonstrating Pakistan's commitment to the war on terror-
Switching of largest follicle from dominant to subordinate status when follicle and CL are in same ovary in heifers

It has been reported that early development of wave 3 in three-wave interovulatory intervals occurs during the luteolytic period, and the frequency of the ipsilateral relationship between the preovulatory follicle and CL is lower (e.g., 33%) than for the contralateral relationship (67%). In this study, luteolysis was induced with PGF2α when the largest follicle of wave 2 reached 8.5 mm or more (diameter at expected deviation). A two-way interaction (P < 0.004) of follicle (first follicle to reach 8.5 mm and the next-largest follicle) by group (ipsilateral and contralateral relationship between the 8.5-mm follicle and CL) represented smaller posttreatment diameter difference between the two follicles within the ipsilateral group than within the contralateral group; the 8.5-mm follicle was smaller and the next-largest follicle was larger in the ipsilateral than in the contralateral group. Switching in the destiny of the 8.5-mm follicle from dominant to subordinate occurred in 3 of 8 (41%) and 0 of 5 (0%) heifers in the ipsilateral and contralateral groups, respectively. These novel findings supported the hypothesis that follicle deviation during luteolysis may result in decreased diameter of the largest follicle and increased frequency of switching of the largest follicle from future dominant to subordinate status when the follicle and CL are ipsilateral. Support for the switching hypothesis indicated that the reported lower frequency of an ipsilateral than contralateral relationship between the preovulatory follicle and CL for wave 3 of three-wave interovulatory intervals can be attributed to development of the wave during luteolysis.
Buckling instability during the 180°-peeling of brass shim from polychloroprene rubber

The 180°-peel adhesion of brass shim firmly bonded to a steel plate with a rubber interlayer has been studied as a function of rubber thickness, t, and test temperature. At low temperatures, peeling occurs via 'normal' interfacial detachment and the peel force increases to a plateau with rubber thickness. At higher temperatures and with larger values of t, compressive forces during peeling become sufficient to cause buckling of the bonded shim behind the major peel front. This causes a segment of predetachment and results in a unique type of stick-slip peeling pattern, in which alternate bands of cohesive and interfacial failure are formed. The instability is in approximate accord with a model assuming the buckling of a column on an elastic foundation.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Self-Plagiarism: How to Avoid Recycling Fraud

What is self-plagiarism? Self-plagiarism, also known as recycling fraud, occurs when an author reuses text in subsequent writings without attributing the previous publication.
Development of fetal gyri, sulci and fissures: a transvaginal sonographic study

We aimed to determine the feasibility of imaging specific sulci, gyri and fissures using transvaginal sonography and to correlate their first sonographic recognition with gestational age. Retrospectively, 262 fetal brain scans were analyzed from a total of 337 scans. Scans were selected if any of the following structures were seen: in the coronal plane the lateral, callosal and cingulate sulcus and gyrus; in the median plane the parieto-occipital and calcarine fissures, and the cingulate gyrus and sulcus; and, in an oblique section, the lateral sulcus. The gestational age at which the fissures, sulci and gyri were first imaged was recorded and subsequently compared with similar anatomical studies from the literature. It was possible to identify all the targeted structures. The gestational ages at which the structures were first imaged were: the callosal sulcus, from 14 weeks; the lateral sulcus, from 18 weeks; the parieto-occipital sulcus and calcarine fissure, from 18 weeks; and the cingulate gyrus, from 26 weeks. We concluded that the developmental maturation of the normal fetal brain follows a predictable timetable, and that this maturation can be grossly followed with sonography. The sonographic recognition of the fissures, gyri and sulci lagged behind the observations by anatomical studies. The greatest discrepancy was the first appearance of the cingulate gyrus which, in the anatomical studies, could be seen by 18 postmenstrual weeks and, in our study, was seen after 26 postmenstrual weeks. The one exception was the callosal sulcus, which was first seen at 14 postmenstrual weeks in both the sonographic and anatomical studies. In conclusion, the recognition of specific structures of the cortical map is possible. Sonography may be used to image the developing cortical surface.
The effect of an extraneous added memory set on item recognition: A test of parallel-dependent vs. serial-comparison models.

The linear increase in response time (RT) in item recognition as a function of memory set size may be attributed either to increased memory search, as in Sternberg’s serial-comparison model, or to increased interference and competition for a limited processing capacity, as in a parallel-dependent model. An additional memory load was imposed on the normal item recognition task. If the normal task involved letters, the additional task involved digits, or vice versa. The added set was presented before and tested after the normal core set was presented and tested. Across the four trial blocks, the subjects did come to dissociate the two memory sets, but this could be due as much to directed rehearsal as to directed search when other results, including the subjects’ postsession reports, are considered. Other findings, such as the higher error rate and shorter RT for positive than negative trials, seem to reflect differences in effective trace strength, and thus are consistent with the parallel-dependent model.
Elevation of Serum 3,5,3′-Triiodothyronine and Thyroxine Levels in Rats Fed Remington Diets; Opposing Effects of Nutritional Deficiency and Iodine Deficiency

In the course of experiments on iodine deficiency induced by Remington diets in rats, we observed that the Remington diet supplied by ICN Nutritional Laboratories, though very deficient in iodine (less than 20 micrograms I/kg), did not lead to the rapid loss of thyroid iodine and the rapid decrease in serum T4 expected on the basis of previous studies with a similarly iodine-deficient Remington diet from another source. In searching for an explanation for this observation, we noted that the ICN Remington diet was nutritionally much more deficient than Remington diets from other suppliers. We also noted that when rats were placed on the iodide-supplemented ICN Remington diet there was a marked increase in serum T3 and T4. In one experiment, rats receiving the ICN Remington diet plus KI in the drinking water for 16 days showed a serum T3 level of 109 +/- 16 ng/dl and a serum T4 level of 6.6 micrograms/dl compared to 52 +/- 7.8 and 4.4 +/- 0.8, respectively, in control rats on a stock diet. These elevations were not simply the result of increased binding to serum proteins. Serum protein-binding studies by the method of equilibrium dialysis showed a very slight decrease in the percent dialyzable fraction for T3 and T4. However, calculated free T3 levels were significantly elevated (P less than 0.001), and increases in free T4, though less striking, were also significant. These elevations were not accompanied by evidence of hyperthyroidism, as judged by measurements of O2 consumption or serum TSH. Although the specific nutritional factors and mechanisms have not yet been defined, our studies demonstrate that nutritional deficiencies in a Remington diet may act to oppose the effects of the iodine deficiency itself. Our observation that the iodide-supplemented ICN Remington diet has a marked serum T3- and T4-elevating effect offers a possible explanation for the blunted thyroidal responses of rats to the same diet lacking added iodide. Our studies also suggest that alteration of peripheral T4 and T3 conversion may not be the only mechanism by which nutritional factors affect serum T3 and T4 levels.
Best Practices and Common Approaches for Considering Sustainability at U.S. State Transportation Agencies

Recent federal, state, and international initiatives suggest growing interest in the sustainability of transportation systems, environmentally, economically, socially, and otherwise. This paper explores commonalities and variations in sustainability activities and describes best practices in sustainable transportation planning and evaluation at state departments of transportation (DOTs) in the United States. A survey of the 50 state DOTs identified current policies, programs, and evaluation methods. With a 94% response rate, the survey results reflect well the range of practices at state DOTs. The survey shows that some state DOTs appreciate the importance of sustainability in their external and internal activities and can point to specific initiatives that demonstrate their interest in sustainability. However, agencies clearly are focused on a range of activities and address sustainability at different levels of engagement. The survey results also reveal several general trends driven largely by federal requirements and state or regional priorities. Each DOT has a unique package of policies or programs, but all state DOTs point to their environmental planning activities as evidence of sustainable practices. Overall, DOTs in the Pacific division are most active in sustainable transportation practices, while those in the Northeast are particularly active in climate change planning and land use planning. Based on the survey responses and supporting literature, a national policy on sustainable transportation may provide guidance for state DOTs and other transportation agencies on specific elements of sustainable transportation, but it will need to be flexible to allow DOTs to address local issues and priorities.
Borna disease virus in brains of North American and European people with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder

The pathogenesis of schizophrenia is unknown. Although a genetic component is likely, discordance for disease in 50% of monozygotic twins and epidemiological studies suggest that there are environmental co-factors. Borna disease virus (BDV) is an RNA virus characterised by low productivity, non-cytolytic replication, broad host range, neurotropism, and the potential to alter movement and behaviour through selective effects on brain monoamine circuits. BDV RNA has been detected in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with neuropsychiatric disorders in Germany and Japan with prevalence rates for schizophrenia ranging from 12% to 64%. We examined the prevalence of BDV P gene mRNA in postmortem brain samples from 75 North American and European individuals with various brain disorders and healthy controls by means of nested reverse transcription PCR experiments (table). On the basis of knowledge of BDV tropism in animals, samples were taken from limbic structures (prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, amygdala, basal ganglia, cingulate gyrus) to increase the probability of detecting BDV RNA. At the University of California Irvine (UCI), P gene transcripts were detected in ten people: eight with schizophrenia (two from Germany, two from Southern California, USA, and four from New England, USA; and two with bipolar disorder (from New England). None were detected in brains of people with multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, or any of the controls. Samples from 13 of the 75 brains examined were sent from New England to the University of Nevada Reno (UNR) for independent analysis. Amplification products were obtained from two of five brains positive at UCI. One sample from a patient with schizophrenia negative at UCI was positive at UNR. Detection was RT-dependent indicating that products did not represent amplification of THE LANCET
Diversity, phylogenetic distribution, and origins of venomous catfishes

The study of venomous fishes is in a state of relative infancy when compared to that of other groups of venomous organisms. Catfishes (Order Siluriformes) are a diverse group of bony fishes that have long been known to include venomous taxa, but the extent and phylogenetic distribution of this venomous species diversity has never been documented, while the nature of the venoms themselves also remains poorly understood. In this study, I used histological preparations from over 100 catfish genera, basic biochemical and toxicological analyses of fin spine extracts from several species, and previous systematic studies of catfishes to examine the distribution of venom glands in this group. These results also offer preliminary insights into the evolutionary history of venom glands in the Siluriformes. Histological examinations of 158 catfish species indicate that approximately 1250-1625+ catfish species should be presumed to be venomous, when viewed in conjunction with several hypotheses of siluriform phylogeny. Maximum parsimony character optimization analyses indicate two to three independent derivations of venom glands within the Siluriformes. A number of putative toxic peptides were identified in the venoms of catfish species from many of the families determined to contain venomous representatives. These peptides elicit a wide array of physiological effects in other fishes, though any one species examined produced no more than three distinct putative toxins in its venom. The molecular weights and effects produced by these putative toxic peptides show strong similarities to previously characterized toxins found in catfish epidermal secretions. Venom glands have evolved multiple times in catfishes (Order Siluriformes), and venomous catfishes may outnumber the combined diversity of all other venomous vertebrates. The toxic peptides found in catfish venoms may be derived from epidermal secretions that have been demonstrated to accelerate the healing of wounds, rather than defensive crinotoxins.
Hypersonic Viscous Flows Past General Bodies at Angle of Attack and Yaw

Computational results of hypersonic viscous flows over blunt-nosed complex re-entry bodies are presented. An implicit iterative numerical scheme at each marching step is used to solve the parabolized Navier-Stokes (PNS) equations. An existing PNS code has been extended to treat nonaxisymmetric bodies at angle of attack and yaw, multiconic bodies with spin, surface mass transfer, and adiabatic wall conditions. Boundary conditions take into account the periodic condition around the body due to the yaw or spin, and the mass-transfer and/or spin effects at the body surface. The computational results presented include surface-measurable quantities and aerodynamic force and moment coefficients for complex geometries; available data were used for comparison. Grid-size effects on the accuracy of the Magnus force components due to spin are also discussed.
Electronic dissymmetry in chiral recognition.

The π-bonding of the β-diketonate ligands in C2-symmetric (dike)2TiX2 complexes engenders a significant electronic dissymmetry, with the LUMO of the complex resembling a “tipped” dz2 orbital whose tilt with respect to the plane containing the metal and the two X groups is determined by the configuration at titanium. The ability of this electronic dissymmetry to promote chiral recognition has been probed in 1,1‘-bi-2-naphtholate complexes (RCOCHCOR)2Ti(BINOL) (R = CH3, Ph, or tBu). The complexes show exclusively one diastereomer by NMR, which has been established as the one predicted on electronic grounds by crystallography of the dibenzoylmethane and 2,2,6,6-tetramethylheptanedione complexes. Confirmation that the selectivity is due to electronic rather than steric factors is given by the behavior of the tin analogues, which are structurally similar but show much smaller diastereoselectivities.
Psychophysiology of pain and opioid use: implications for managing pain in patients with an opioid use disorder.

Background Opioid therapy is one component of an effective pain management regimen for patients with chronic pain and the majority of these patients use their medications responsibly. However, there are a growing number of these patients who develop an opioid use disorder and in some cases require opioid replacement therapy. Managing these patients is complex and the underlying mechanisms of pain and addiction are not well understood. Developing an effective interdisciplinary treatment program for the individual with pain and an opioid use disorder will depend on enhancing our knowledge of the psychophysiology of pain and addiction.
The mechanism of stress corrosion cracking of Cu-base alloys

Abstract SCC of α-copper alloy solid solutions in neutral Mattson's solution is controlled by the rate of de-alloying at the crack tips. Only Mn and Zn alloying additions result in high rates of SCC because they can support large anodic current densities (> 0.1 A cm −1 ) at the crack tips, at the cracking potential. Solute is believed to be transported to the tips by pipe diffusion in the cores of dislocations generated at the crack tips. Certain ternary alloy additions having high total misfit parameters significantly reduce the rates of SCC.
The Null Hypothesis Testing Controversy in Psychology

Abstract A controversy concerning the usefulness of “null” hypothesis tests in scientific inference has continued in articles within psychology since 1960 and has recently come to a head, with serious proposals offered for a test ban or something close to it. This article sketches some of the views of statistical theory and practice among different groups of psychologists, reviews a recent book offering multiple perspectives on null hypothesis tests, and argues that the debate within psychology is a symptom of serious incompleteness in the foundations of statistics.
Two stage phase transition in the minimal supersymmetric model

Abstract We consider the possibility that the minimal supersymmetric model can allow a two-stage electroweak phase transition to occur. We show that, including only leading order thermal corrections, the Higgs potential too is constrained to allow this possibility. We also argue that one-loop corrections are, in general, too small to change this result.
A structured exercise program for patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer.

Introduction: Exercise improves functional outcome and symptoms for certain cancer populations, but the feasibility, efficacy, and safety of structured exercise in patients with lung cancer is unknown. In this study, we examined the feasibility of a hospital-based exercise program for patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer. Methods: This study included patients with newly diagnosed advanced stage non-small cell lung cancer and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 0–1. A physical therapist facilitated twice-weekly sessions of aerobic exercise and weight training over an 8-week period. The primary end point was feasibility of the intervention, defined as adherence to the exercise program. Secondary endpoints included functional capacity, measured by the 6-minute walk test and muscle strength, as well as quality of life, lung cancer symptoms and fatigue, measured by the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-lung and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-fatigue scales. Results: Between October 2004 and August 2007, 25 patients enrolled in the study. All participants received anticancer therapy during the study period. Twenty patients (80%) underwent the baseline physical therapy evaluation. Eleven patients (44%) completed all 16 sessions. An additional 6 patients attended at least 6 sessions (range, 6–15), and 2 patients only attended one session. Study completers experienced a significant reduction in lung cancer symptoms and no deterioration in their 6-minute walk test or muscle strength. Conclusions: Although the majority of participants attempted the exercise program, less than half were able to complete the intervention. Those who completed the program experienced an improvement in their lung cancer symptoms. Community-based or briefer exercise interventions may be more feasible in this population.
An Augmented Risk Information Seeking Model: The Case of Global Warming

This effort argues for an augmented version of the relatively new Risk Information Seeking and Processing (RISP) Model, and subsequently applies this augmented RISP model specifically to environmental risk information seeking. Nearly 830 randomly selected members of a national panel were surveyed about their attitudes, perceptions, and behaviors regarding seeking information about an environmental risk—global warming. Path analysis suggests the promise of applying an augmented RISP model to environmental risk information seeking (R2 = .72 for information seeking intent) and reinforces prior research, which indicated the notable contribution that perceived social pressures may have when individuals seek such information (β = .68, p < .001).
How Report Cards On Physicians, Physician Groups, And Hospitals Can Have Greater Impact On Consumer Choices

Public report cards with quality and cost information on physicians, physician groups, and hospital providers have proliferated in recent years. However, many of these report cards are difficult for consumers to interpret and have had little impact on the provider choices consumers are making. To gain a more focused understanding of why these reports cards have not been more successful and what improvements could be made, we interviewed experts and surveyed registrants at the March 2011 AHRQ National Summit on Public Reporting for Consumers in Health Care. We found broad agreement that public reporting has been disconnected from consumer decisions about providers because of weaknesses in report card content, design, and accessibility. Policy makers have an opportunity to change the landscape of public reporting by taking advantage of advances in measurement, data collection, and information technology to deliver a more consumer-centered report card. Overcoming the constraint of limited public funding, and...
Spreading of Antarctic Bottom Water and its effects on the floor of the Indian Ocean inferred from bottom-water potential temperature, turbidity, and sea-floor photography

Abstract Data on bottom-water potential temperature, turbidity and current indications show that in the Southern Ocean west of the Kerguelen Plateau, Antarctic Bottom Water (AABW) of Weddell Sea origin spreads northwards from the Atlantic—Indian Basin in two directions: (1) AABW enters the Agulhas Basin through relatively deep areas in the Mid-Indian Ridge at 20–25°E and possibly at 35°E, and flows northwards into the Mozambique Basin as far as its northern limits; (2) a more easterly spreading path extends from the Atlantic—Indian Basin through the Crozet into the Madagascar, Mascarene, Somali and Arabian Basins. The passage in the western branch of the Indian Ridge for the AABW spreading from the Crozet into the Madagascar Basin appears to be at 29-26°S and 60–64°E. East of the Kerguelen Plateau in the South Indian Basin, the bottom water formed mainly along the Adelie Coast and Ross Sea travels west towards the Kerguelen Plateau and then parallel to it. This water finally flows eastwards hugging the Southeast Indian Ridge. Significant deviations from this general circulation pattern occur due to local topographic effects. Some AABW in the South Indian Basin exits through a passage at 120–125°E in the region of the Australian—Antarctic discordance in the Southeast Indian Ridge and enters the South Australian Basin and subsequently the Wharton Basin. This passage is clearly indicated by the northward extension of a cold, bottom-water tongue as shown by the temperature distribution in the region; the bottom-water effects in the passage are reflected in the high turbidity and current lineations on the sea floor. In the Southern Ocean basins, bottom-water turbidity is generally high, reflecting in part the strong bottom-water activity. The effects of AABW circulation on the sea floor—in the form of well-developed small- or large-scale current ripples and erosional/depositional features, manganese-nodule formations, and unconformities and reworking of sediments observed in cores — are also marked in these basins. Even though the AABW in the Wharton Basin is cold, its spreading effects on the sea floor are minimal in this basin in contrast to the basins west of the Mid-Indian Ridge at comparable latitudes.
Evidence for increased recombination near the human insulin gene: implication for disease association studies.

Abstract Haplotypes for four new restriction site polymorphisms (detected by Rsa I, Taq I, HincII, and Sac I) and a previously identified DNA length polymorphism (5' FP), all at the insulin locus, have been studied in U.S. Blacks, African Blacks, Caucasians, and Pima Indians. Black populations are polymorphic for all five markers, whereas the other groups are polymorphic for Rsa I, Taq I, and 5' FP only. The data suggest that approximately equal to 1 in 550 base pairs is variant in this region. The polymorphisms, even though located within 20 kilobases, display low levels of nonrandom association. Population genetic analysis suggests that recombination within this 20-kilobase segment occurs 24 times more frequently than expected if crossing-over occurred uniformly throughout the human genome. These findings suggest that population associations between DNA polymorphisms and disease susceptibility genes near the insulin gene or structural mutations in the insulin gene will be weak. Thus, population studies would probably require large sample sizes to detect associations. However, the low levels of nonrandom association increase the information content of the locus for linkage studies, which is the best alternative for discovering disease susceptibility genes.