cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Bilateral Striopallidodentate Calcinosis With Paroxysmal Kinesigenic Dyskinesia

Bilateral striopallidodentate calcinosis is characterized by calcification of the basal ganglia and other gray matter structures. We describe a 16-year-old boy with paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia. He exhibited mineralization in the basal ganglia, posterior thalami, and dentate nuclei bilaterally, and was diagnosed with sporadic bilateral striopallidodentate calcinosis. The paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia responded to low-dose treatment with carbamazepine (200 mg/day).
Combustion of Hydrogen Enriched Hydrocarbon Fuels in Vortex Trapped Combustor

Trapped vortex combustor represents an efficient and compact combustor for flame stability. Combustion stability is achieved through the use of cavities in which recirculation zones of hot products generated by the direct injection of fuel and air are created and acting as a continuous source of ignition for the incoming main fuel-air stream. Computational Fluid Dynamics analysis was performed in this study to test the combustion performance and emissions from the vortex trapped combustor when natural gas fuel (methane) is replaced with renewable and alternative fuels such as hydrogen and synthesis gas. The flame temperature, the flow field, and species concentrations inside the Vortex Trapped Combustor were obtained. The results show that hydrogen enriched hydrocarbon fuels combustion will result in more energy, higher temperature (14% increase when methane is replaced with hydrogen fuels) and NOX emissions, and lower CO2 emissions (50% decrease when methane is replaced with methane/hydrogen mixture with 75% hydrogen fraction). The NOX emission increases when the fraction of hydrogen increases for methane/hydrogen fuel mixture. The results also show that the flame for methane combustion fuel is located in the primary vortex region but it is shifted to the secondary vortex region for hydrogen combustion.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Low Reynolds number Navier-Stokes simulation for rotating liquid-filled containers

Three-dimensional, steady, laminar, incompressible Navier-Stokes equations are solved using an implicit finite-difference scheme based on successive over-relaxation. These low Reynolds number numerical simulations are used to predict the behavior of liquids undergoing steady spin and steady precession at a fixed precession angle. Low Reynolds number simulations are applicable to slowly spinning vehicles or highly viscous liquid payloads. The liquid is contained in a fully filled axisymmetric container; the particular geometry examined in this paper is a right-circular cylinder with flat or rounded endcaps. Numerical predictions of viscous and pressure moments due to the liquid fill at low Reynolds number are reported. These moments tend to increase the precession angle and reduce the spin rate of the container. Liquid-induced roll and side (yaw) moments are computed as functions of endcap height to cylinder radius (0 < e/a < 1), cylinder half-height to radius (0.5 < c/ a < 4), Reynolds number (20 < Re < 3 X 102), ratio of precession to spin rate (0.05 < r < 0.95), and precession angle (ac = 2 deg). For a given cylinder, rounded endcaps can decrease the resonant liquid-induced moment by about 20% and shift the resonance to a smaller Reynolds number (for fixed precessional frequency). Thus, rounded endcaps can produce flight stability for some projectiles with highly viscous liquid payloads.
High-density data-retention power gating structure using a four-terminal double-gate device

This paper presents a new power gating structure with robust data retention capability using only one single double-gate device to provide both power gating switch and virtual supply/ground diode clamp functions. The scheme reduces the transistor count, area, and capacitance of the power gating structure, thus improving circuit performance, power, and leakage. The scheme is compared to the conventional power gating structure via mixed-mode physics-based two-dimensional numerical simulations. Analysis of virtual ground bounce for the proposed scheme is also presented.
Light and substrate concentration relationships with marine ammonium assimilation and oxidation rates

Abstract Relationships between light intensity and substrate concentration and rates of assimilation and oxidation of ammonium by microorganisms were investigated at four stations off the Washington coast and three stations in the Southern California Bight. Ammonium oxidation rates were negatively correlated with light in the photic zone at all stations; light inhibition of nitrifying bacteria forms an important control over the depth distribution of ammonium oxidation activity. Both assimilation and oxidation were positively correlated with ammonium concentration at the Washington coast stations, where ambient ammonium concentrations were high. Light and ammonium assimilation rate were positively correlated at the Southern California Bight stations (within the photic zone; i.e., excluding depths greater than 150m), but unrelated at the Washington coast stations. Assimilation and oxidation have nearly opposite distribution patterns with depth in the water column, but phytoplankton and nitrifying bacteria probably compete for ammonium at depths near the bottom of the photic zone.
The fiscal risk of all-hazards emergency management or the political hazards in rational policy

The professionalization of emergency management and the adoption of all-hazards policies mean fundamental changes in agency constituencies and budgetary politics. Professionalization can increase the distance between emergency managers and the public they serve, expand the need for scientific and technical knowledge among generalist administrators, and fragment the disaster community. The more “rational” approach to disaster policy may well alienate the supporters of disaster-specific programs. Fiscal risk may result, particularly at the state and local levels where there are fewer opportunities to secure funding and to cultivate political support.
On scheduling tasks with exponential service times and in-tree precedence constraints

In this paper we extend the work of Chandy and Reynolds in which they considered the problem of scheduling tasks on two identical processors. The processing times of the tasks are independent, identically distributed exponential random variables. The tasks are subject to in-tree precedence constraints. Chandy and Reynolds have shown that the expected value of the makespan is minimized if and only if the scheduling policy is Highest-Level-First (HLF). We extend their result by showing that a policy maximizes the probability that all tasks finish by some time t≧0 if and only if the policy is HLF. Additionally, we show that a policy maximizes the probability that the sum of the finishing times of all the tasks is less than some value s≧0 if and only if the policy is HLF.
Subcutaneous Bupivacaine Infiltration and Postoperative Pain Perception After Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy

Purpose: Recent studies have shown a significant decrease in patient reported pain scores when the nephrostomy tube size is decreased from 22 to 10Fr. We hypothesize that patient reported pain and narcotic use could be further decreased for patients with post-percutaneous nephrolithotomy nephrostomy tubes if the incision is infiltrated with a local anesthetic.Materials and Methods: A randomized prospective trial was designed to assess the impact of Marcaine® infiltration of the nephrostomy tract following percutaneous stone removal. Patients undergoing single access percutaneous nephrolithotomy were randomized to have a fixed volume of saline or weight based concentration of Marcaine infiltrated into the nephrostomy tube tract at the conclusion of the procedure. Postoperative narcotic use and patient reported pain scores were then obtained at 2, 4, 24 and 48 hours postoperatively.Results: A total of 25 patients were enrolled in the study with 3 excluded from analysis due to incomplete data collection (2) ...
A long period multistate life table using micro data

The multistate life table (MLT) has been widely used by demographers for the past twenty years. However, the pivotal Markov condition upon which the entire methodology rests is rarely satisfied in practice. We lessen reliance upon the assumption by computing transition probabilities for longer periods of time than was previously practical. An extended Kaplan‐Meier estimator accomplishes this task, simultaneously addressing the issue of censoring. This allows for the construction of a long period MLT. We provide an illustrative example of a 10‐year period MLT, with comparison to a 1‐year period MLT.
Determination and correction of analytical biases and study on chemical mechanisms in the analysis of Cr(VI) in soil samples using EPA protocols

EPA Methods 3060A (alkaline extraction) and 7196A (colorimetric measurement) currently constitute a pair of protocols for the measurement of Cr(VI) in environmental soil samples in EPA RCRA SW-846 ...
Magnetic field dependence of the superconducting flux flow resistance minimum

Abstract Measurements have been made in lead alloys of the field dependence of the temperature, T min , at which the superconducting flux flow resistivity passes through a minimum. When the data are expressed in terms of the reduced variables t min = T min / T c and h = H / H c 2 (0), t min is the same linear function of h for all samples. The slope d t min /d h = −0.72, indicating a stronger influence of magnetic field on t min than was obtained in a recent calculation by Chow.
Poor adolescent expectant mothers: can we assess their potential for child abuse?

Abstract Purpose: To explore the correlates of high scores on the Child Abuse Potential Inventory in adolescent expectant mothers. Methods: Child Abuse Potential scores and data on demographics, pregnancy desire, history of maltreatment, psychological functioning, and perceived social support were obtained by self-report and semi-structured interview. The sample consisted of 50 poor single adolescents recruited from prenatal clinics during the second half of the pregnancy. The relationships among the variables were assessed using Pearson product-moment correlation and multiple regression strategies. Results: Higher Child Abuse Potential scores were associated with higher maternal psychological distress, maternal history of psychiatric diagnosis, and lack of perceived support by the father of the baby. Older pregnant teenagers were more likely to report childhood history of maltreatment, higher psychological distress, and perceived and expected less support by the maternal mother. Expectant mothers who were raised by a single parent were more likely to have a history of childhood maltreatment, less likely to live with the father of the baby during their pregnancy and to expect less support from him. Conclusions: Child Abuse Potential scores, obtained during pregnancy in a sample of poor single adolescents provide a marker of maternal prenatal functioning and perceived social support. Further studies are warranted to validate prenatal use of the Child Abuse Potential Inventory (CAPI), which may help identify populations at particularly high risk for child abuse during pregnancy and inform strategies for early preventive interventions. Adolescent education on family planning, child rearing, and social support programs should address the importance of the fathers’ role.
HEPTANE COMBUSTION DATABASE

This paper reports on the completion of a heptane cracking database module as a complement to existing databases that ha ve been used to simulate the combustion of heptane. This extends the range of coverage to include phenomenon such as PAH formation. Following a review of earlier work, we describe the most recent work on determining the rate constants for the cracking of 1 -olefinyl radicals (1 butenyl, 1 -penteny and 1 -hexenyl). The radicals with the free electron in the 3, 4, and 6 positions are more stable than the comparable alkyl radicals. Those with electron in the 5 position are less stable. The decomposition product s include allyl, vinyl and a variety of dienes; well known precursors for PAH, as well as small unsaturates and radicals. The effects on the rate constants arising from energy transfer are determined using a new approach and quantified. Contributions to abstraction rate expressions as a result of allylic resonance have been taken into account. Chemically activated decomposition of the alkyl radicals formed from H atom addition to the 1 -olefins have been analyzed and differences and similarities to therm al results noted. Extension to larger fuels are considered.
Radio frequency absorption in gold nanoparticle suspensions: a phenomenological study

Detailed calculations of the attenuation of low-frequency electromagnetic fields and dielectric losses by a dilute suspension of gold colloidal nanoparticles are reported. The attenuation produced by the particles suspended in an aqueous medium of low electrolyte concentration was found to be modest as compared with the attenuation in the medium itself. The same result is obtained using the Maxwell–Wagner effective medium theory with the effect of the counter-ion relaxation also taken into account. The attenuation associated with the motion of the colloidal particles under the effect of the electric field has also been evaluated and found significant under certain conditions. This study points towards the importance of the ionic contribution and the motion of the charged nanoparticles as key factors for the increased absorption observed at radio frequencies in dilute suspensions of gold colloidal nanoparticles.
Nuclear networking fashions pre-messenger RNA and primary microRNA transcripts for function.

The expression of protein-coding genes is enhanced by the exquisite coupling of transcription by RNA polymerase II with pre-messenger RNA processing reactions, such as 5′-end capping, splicing and 3′-end formation. Integration between cotranscriptional processing events extends beyond the nucleus, as proteins that bind cotranscriptionally can affect the localization, translation and degradation of the mature messenger RNA. MicroRNAs are RNA polymerase II transcripts with crucial roles in the regulation of gene expression. Recent data demonstrate that processing of primary microRNA transcripts might be yet another cotranscriptional event that is woven into this elaborate nuclear network. This review discusses the extensive molecular interactions that couple the earliest steps in gene expression and therefore influence the final fate and function of the mature messenger RNA or microRNA produced.
Effects of dissolved oxygen and iron aging on the reduction of trichloronitromethane, trichloracetonitrile, and trichloropropanone

Abstract Iron metal (Fe(0)) is a potent reductant capable of reducing a wide variety of halogenated organic compounds including disinfection byproducts (DBPs). These reduction reactions may play a role in DBP fate in iron water mains and potentially could be exploited to remove DBPs from drinking water or wastewater in a packed-bed configuration. Oxidants (i.e., dissolved oxygen (DO) and chlorine) present in the water, however, may decrease the DBP degradation rate by competing for reactive sites and rapidly aging or corroding the iron surface. Thus, batch experiments were performed to investigate the effect of DO on the degradation rates of selected DBPs by Fe(0). Experiments were performed under anaerobic conditions, in initially oxygen saturated buffer without DO control, and under controlled DO (approximately 4.0 or 8.0 mg l −1 ) conditions. The effect of short-term (25–105 min) iron aging in DO-containing buffer on DBP degradation rate also was investigated in separate experiments. For fresh Fe(0), the degradation rates of trichloronitromethane (TCNM) and trichloroacetonitrile (TCAN) in initially oxygen saturated buffer were similar to their respective rates under anaerobic conditions. The degradation rate of 1,1,1-trichloropropanone (1,1,1-TCP), however, decreased significantly in the presence of DO and the effect was proportional to DO concentration in the controlled DO experiments. For a DO concentration of 4 mg l −1 , the degradation rate of the three DBPs was greater for longer aging times as compared to their respective rates after 25 min, suggesting the formation of a mineral phase that increased reactivity. For a DO concentration of 8 mg l −1 , the effects of increasing aging time were mixed. TCNM degradation rates were stable for all aging times and comparable to that under anaerobic conditions. The TCAN and 1,1,1-TCP degradation rates, however, tended to decrease with increasing aging time. These results suggest that the reduction of highly reactive DBPs by Fe(0) will not be affected by the presence of DO but that the reaction rates will be slowed by DO for DBPs with slower degradation kinetics.
Computational complexity and related topics of robustness margin calculation using μ theory: A review of theoretical developments

Abstract This paper provides a comprehensive overview of research related to computational complexity of structured singular value (a.k.a. μ ) problems. A survey of computational complexity results in μ problems is followed by a concise introduction to computational complexity theory that is useful to characterize the inherent difficulty of solving an optimization. Results on the study for NP-hardness of ϵ -approximation of μ problems are discussed and conservatism of convex μ upper-bounds including ones obtained from absolute stability theory is studied. NP-hardness of μ computation and conservatism of convex upper-bounds open new research trends. In particular, we give an overview of polynomial-time model reduction methods and probabilistic randomized algorithms that have been active research topics since the mid-1990s.
A low-cost configurable multichannel cortical stimulator prototype

The recording and decoding of intracranial neural signals for brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) and neural prosthetics is rapidly evolving. These devices have the objective of augmentation and restoration of lost or impaired function for the disabled. While much work has been done in terms of electrical stimulation of muscles, nerves, and the cochlea for prosthetics, comparatively little work has been done to explore the possibility of direct cortical stimulation of the human brain. It has been shown that simple bipolar, biphasic cortical stimulation can induce a wide range of sensory percepts (i.e., visual, auditory, and tactile sensations). It is envisioned that more sophisticated multichannel stimulation using configurable waveforms may produce predictable and controllable percepts, thus paving the way for the next generation of neural prosthetics. Such sophisticated stimulation could be useful in future bi-directional BCIs, which would allow the user to control a device and receive feedback via the same neural interface, e.g., control and proprioception in a prosthetic limb. This paper presents the preliminary design of an 8-channel configurable cortical stimulator prototype based on the compact and low-cost Raspberry Pi® single-board computer. Promising results from initial non-tissue tests are shown.
Recovery of shivering in spinal cats.

Abstract Normal adult cats and acute and chronic spinal preparations were studied for shivering responses in the hind limbs to spinal cord cooling. A U-shape polyethylene tube was positioned peridurally so that it would lie from L7 to T5–8. Spinal cord transections were made just rostral to the tubing. The tubing was injected with progressively cooler water to cool the cord and induce shivering. There is a significant increase (P
Explicit A-Priori error bounds and Adaptive error control for approximation of nonlinear initial value differential systems

This paper develops and demonstrates a guaranteed a-priori error bound for the Taylor polynomial approximation of any degree to the solution of initial value ordinary differential equations. The error bound is explicit and does not require upper bounds on the potentially complicated and intrinsically unknown right-hand side nor on any of its higher-order derivatives as with existing bounds, and thus it provides a valuable tool for the numerous applications in which initial value ode problems arise and for which approximate solutions must be sought.
Correlated statistical uncertainties in coded-aperture imaging

Abstract In nuclear security applications, coded-aperture imagers can provide a wealth of information regarding the attributes of both the radioactive and nonradioactive components of the objects being imaged. However, for optimum benefit to the community, spatial attributes need to be determined in a quantitative and statistically meaningful manner. To address a deficiency of quantifiable errors in coded-aperture imaging, we present uncertainty matrices containing covariance terms between image pixels for MURA mask patterns. We calculated these correlated uncertainties as functions of variation in mask rank, mask pattern over-sampling, and whether or not anti-mask data are included. Utilizing simulated point source data, we found that correlations arose when two or more image pixels were summed. Furthermore, we found that the presence of correlations was heightened by the process of over-sampling, while correlations were suppressed by the inclusion of anti-mask data and with increased mask rank. As an application of this result, we explored how statistics-based alarming is impacted in a radiological search scenario.
Taphonomic Effects of pH and Temperature on Extant Avian Dinosaur Eggshell

Abstract Avian and non-avian dinosaur eggshell contains clues that are helpful in the reconstruction of ancient habitats and behaviors. Fossilized eggshell often shows signs of corrosion attributed to acid dissolution of the calcium carbonate, but this process has never been quantified in controlled experiments. In work reported here, extant avian dinosaur eggshell fragments were placed in buffered solutions of varying pH and temperature for varying periods of time. Changes in the appearance, mass, surface area, and thickness were described and compared with naturally weathered eggshell. Treatment resulted in corrosion and pitting of the outer surface and corrosion of the mammillary structure of the inner surface. Fragment mass, surface area, and thickness generally decreased in response to decreased pH and to increased temperature and exposure time. A classification scheme for eggshell corrosion is proposed.
Estimating Bargaining Power in the Market for Existing Homes

Although bargaining is common in markets for heterogeneous goods, it has largely been ignored in the hedonic literature. In a break from that tradition, we establish sufficient conditions that permit one to identify the effect of buyer and seller bargaining on hedonic models. Our model is estimated using a previously overlooked feature of the American Housing Survey that permits us to observe characteristics of both buyers and sellers. Results suggest that household wealth, gender, and other demographic traits influence bargaining power. In addition, variation in bargaining power arising from the presence of school-age children accounts for anomalous seasonal patterns reported in various widely cited indices of quality-adjusted house prices.
Child Witnesses and the First Amendment: A Psycholegal Dilemma

There have been a number of recent proposals for procedural reforms to protect child victims in their role as witnesses. The Supreme Court's decision in Globe Newspaper Co. v. Superior Court suggests both the constitutional limits of these reforms and some circumstances in which social-science evidence in unlikely to be given weight by the judiciary. Globe is particularly interesting with respect to the latter issue because its judgment appeared to turn on perceptions of empirical data. The Court's use of these data is analyzed, and suggestions are made for future research about children's involvement as witnesses. It is argued that attention might be better paid to making the present system more responsive to the needs of child witnesses than to attempting major procedural changes.
Cloxacillin in the treatment of dental infection.

Abstract This study, in which twenty-three of twenty-eight subjects (90 per cent) underwent successful antibiotic treatment without significant side effects, demonstrates the clinical efficacy of cloxacillin in the treatment of common dental infections.
Access of viral proteins to mitochondria via mitochondria‐associated membranes

By exploiting host cell machineries, viruses provide powerful tools for gaining insight into cellular pathways. Proteins from two unrelated viruses, human CMV (HCMV) and HCV, are documented to traffic sequentially from the ER into mitochondria, probably through the mitochondria-associated membrane (MAM) compartment. The MAM are sites of ER-mitochondrial contact enabling the direct transfer of membrane bound lipids and the generation of high calcium (Ca2+) microdomains for mitochondria signalling and responses to cellular stress. Both HCV core protein and HCMV UL37 proteins are associated with Ca2+ regulation and apoptotic signals. Trafficking of viral proteins to the MAM may allow viruses to manipulate a variety of fundamental cellular processes, which converge at the MAM, including Ca2+ signalling, lipid synthesis and transfer, bioenergetics, metabolic flow, and apoptosis. Because of their distinct topologies and targeted MAM sub-domains, mitochondrial trafficking (albeit it through the MAM) of the HCMV and HCV proteins predictably involves alternative pathways and, hence, distinct targeting signals. Indeed, we found that multiple cellular and viral proteins, which target the MAM, showed no apparent consensus primary targeting sequences. Nonetheless, these viral proteins provide us with valuable tools to access the poorly characterised MAM compartment, to define its cellular constituents and describe how virus infection alters these to its own end. Furthermore, because proper trafficking of viral proteins is necessary for their function, discovering the requirements for MAM to mitochondrial trafficking of essential viral proteins may provide novel targets for the rational design of anti-viral drugs.
Addendum to "Variational formulation of the R matrix method for multichannel scattering"

Our recently published variational treatment of the $R$-matrix method for multichannel scattering requires computations involving unsymmetric matrices. An alternative derivation by Schlessinger and Payne has shown that the method can be reformulated in terms of symmetric matrices. Special techniques applicable to symmetric matrices simplify the computations and improve numerical accuracy.
An equation which describes fission gas release from UN reactor fuel

Abstract Measurements of fission gas release (R) from UN nuclear fuel are correlated to average fuel temperature (T), atom percent burnup (B) and theoretical density (TD) using the following equation which properly describes the boundary conditions: R = 100 [exp(0.0025{ 90TD 0.77 B 0.09 −T} ) + 1] . An equation of this form, when applied to the various published data sets and compared to the other published equations, has a lower standard deviationi regardless of the data set used. However, the predicted behavior depends more strongly on the data set than on the form of the equation.
Mathematical model for the mineralization of bone

A mathematical model is presented for the transport and precipitation of mineral in refilling osteons. One goal of this model was to explain calcification 'halos,' in which the bone near the haversian canal is more highly mineralized than the more peripheral lamellae, which have been mineralizing longer. It was assumed that the precipitation rate of mineral is proportional to the difference between the local concentration of calcium ions and an equilibrium concentration and that the transport of ions is by either diffusion or some other concentration gradient-dependent process. Transport of ions was assumed to be slowed by the accumulation of mineral in the matrix along the transport path. The model also mimics bone apposition, slowing of apposition during refilling, and mineralization lag time. It was found that simple diffusion cannot account for the transport of calcium ions into mineralizing bone, because the diffusion coefficient is two orders of magnitude too low. If a more rapid concentration gradient-driven means of transport exists, the model demonstrates that osteonal geometry and variable rate of refilling work together to produce calcification halos, as well as the primary and secondary calcification effect reported in the literature.
Aerodynamic design for improved maneuverability by the use of three-dimensional transonic theory

This study has examined the level of transonic maneuver performance that can be achieved by the use of three-dimensional transonic theory. The FLO-27 code of Jameson and Caughey (1977) was used to lower maneuver drag by the reduction of shock strength on the wing upper surface. A design procedure was used to provide a set of guidelines for the iterative application of FLO-27 during the wing design process. The fighter configuration utilized had a leading-edge sweep of 45 deg and an aspect ratio of 3.28. Tests were conducted at Mach numbers from 0.60 to 0.95 and angles of attack from -5 to 18 deg. The accurate prediction of wing shock systems required the inclusion of fuselage effects in the theory. The FLO-27 code gave a reasonable estimate of the experimental wing pressure distributions at transonic maneuver conditions in the region of the wing where the flow was attached. For Mach numbers between 0.60 and 0.95 and lift coefficients near 0.9, a wing designed by the use of FLO-27 showed substantially lower drag than an empirically developed, supercritical maneuver wing and a maneuver wing designed primarily by two-dimensional transonic theory. For some maneuver conditions, the drag of the two-dimensional design was somewhat lower.
Both hypoxia and work are required to enhance expression of myoglobin in skeletal muscle. Focus on Hypoxia reprograms calcium signaling and regulates myoglobin expression

the effects of hypoxia on mammalian heart and muscle have fascinated physiologists for many a day. Myoglobin is expressed adaptively in muscle. In very young animals, and in the absence of muscle work, the myoglobin concentration in muscles remains very small. What factors lead to myoglobin genesis
Examining seasonal patterns of space use to gauge how an accipiter responds to urbanization

Abstract As humans continue to rapidly develop natural landscapes, understanding how urbanization affects native species becomes increasingly important. Exploring how animals use urban environments can help assess how urban development may affect them, especially when compared to their use of non-urban environments. We examined seasonal patterns of habitat selection and space use of adult, male Cooper's hawks (Accipiter cooperii) in an urban environment to evaluate how this native resident responds to urbanization. Patterns of space use and habitat selection were uniform in both the breeding and non-breeding seasons. Average size of home ranges was among the smallest reported for the species, and did not vary in the breeding and non-breeding seasons. Hawks selected land-use types containing large non-native trees and tracts of remnant native vegetation that supported abundant prey species, in both the breeding and non-breeding seasons. Consistency in habitat selection and space use across seasons, small space requirements, and high nesting density likely reflects the high productivity of this urban environment. Comparison of patterns of space use and demographic attributes to Cooper's hawks inhabiting natural environments suggests that habitat for Cooper's hawks in this urban environment may be of higher quality than in some undeveloped areas as a result of human landscaping activities. Although most native species are negatively impacted by urbanization, some species, such as Cooper's hawks, appear to benefit from the changes wrought by development. Investigating how anthropogenic activities influence space use of native species can help managers assess the quality of urban environments as habitat.
Elemental content of soil, sorghum and wheat on sludge-injected agricultural land

Abstract The objective of this research was to determine the uptake of heavy metals by plants grown on sludge-injected soil. The study took place at the sludge farm owned by the Manhattan, Kansas, sewage treatment plant, where sludge has been injected since 1976. Soil and two crops, sorghum ( Sorghum bicolor L. Moench.) and winter wheat ( Triticum aestivum L. em. Thell.), were sampled in 1980 after a total of 128 t ha −1 of sludge (dry-weight basis) had been added to the soil (32 t ha −1 year −1 ). The control area, a farm next to the sludge farm, received only inorganic fertilizer. Four non-essential elements were analyzed (Cd, Cr, Ni, Pb), as well as nine essential elements (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn). Soil in sludge-fertilized fields had more N, P, K, Mg, Fe, Cu, Mn, Zn, Cd, Cr and Ni than did soil from the control fields. In general, concentrations of essential elements in plants grown on sludge were similar to concentrations of essential elements in plants grown with inorganic fertilizer. Concentrations of non-essential elements were also similar, except for the following five exceptions, in which the sludge-treated plants had a higher concentration of the element than did the control plants: Cd in stems of sorghum; Cr in roots of wheat; Ni in roots and grain of wheat; and Pb in roots of wheat. Nickel in grain of wheat grown with sludge was within normal concentration ranges. Cadmium was at low levels in all plants, which indicated that, when sludge was layered below the surface of the soil, transfer of Cd from the soil to the plants was small. Sludge-injection appeared to be an effective method for fertilizing plants.
Shiga-toxin-producing Escherichia coli and haemolytic uraemic syndrome

Most cases of diarrhoea-associated haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS) are caused by Shiga-toxin-producing bacteria; the pathophysiology differs from that of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura. Among Shiga-toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC), O157:H7 has the strongest association worldwide with HUS. Many different vehicles, in addition to the commonly suspected ground (minced) beef, can transmit this pathogen to people. Antibiotics, antimotility agents, narcotics, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should not be given to acutely infected patients, and we advise hospital admission and administration of intravenous fluids. Management of HUS remains supportive; there are no specific therapies to ameliorate the course. The vascular injury leading to HUS is likely to be well under way by the time infected patients seek medical attention for diarrhoea. The best way to prevent HUS is to prevent primary infection with Shiga-toxin-producing bacteria.
Selective antagonism of rat inhibitory glycine receptor subunits.

Retinal ganglion cells exhibit fast and slow inhibitory synaptic glycine currents that can be selectively inhibited by strychnine and 5,7-dichlorokynurenic acid (DCKA), respectively. In this study we examined whether strychnine and DCKA selectivity correlated with the subunit composition of the glycine receptor. Homomeric α1, α2 or α2* glycine subunits were in vitro expressed in human embryonic kidney cells (HEK 293). In cells expressing the α1 subunit, responses to 200 μm glycine were blocked by 1 μm strychnine but not by 500 μm DCKA. In cells expressing the α2 subunit, both 1 μm strychnine and 500 μm DCKA were effective antagonists of 200 μm glycine. In cells expressing α2* subunits, which are much less glycine-sensitive, 10 mm glycine was inhibited by 500 μm DCKA but not by 1 μm strychnine. A single amino acid mutation in the α1 subunit (R196G), converted this subunit from DCKA-insensitive to DCKA-sensitive. In conclusion, the comparative effectiveness of strychnine and DCKA can be used to distinguish between the α1, α2 and α2* receptor responses. Furthermore, a single amino acid near the glycine receptor's putative agonist binding site may account for differences in DCKA sensitivity amongst the α subunits.
Ascorbic acid reduction of microtubule protein disulfides and its relevance to protein S-nitrosylation assays

The biotin switch assay was developed to aid in the identification of S-nitrosylated proteins in different cell types. However, our work with microtubule proteins including tubulin and its associated proteins tau and microtubule-associated protein-2 shows that ascorbic acid is not a selective reductant of protein S-nitrosothiols as described in the biotin switch assay. Herein we show that ascorbic acid reduces protein disulfides in tubulin, tau, and microtubule-associated protein-2 that are formed by peroxynitrite anion. Reduction of microtubule-associated protein disulfides by ascorbic acid following peroxynitrite treatment restores microtubule polymerization kinetics to control levels. We also show that ascorbic acid reduces the disulfide dithiobis(2-nitrobenzoic acid), a reagent commonly used to detect protein thiols. Not only do we describe a new reactivity of ascorbic acid with microtubule proteins but we expose an important limitation when using the biotin switch assay to detect protein S-nitrosylation.
Space and place in an Urban Landscape: Learning from children's views of their social worlds

In this paper, I examine photos made by children as one part of a three‐year, ethnographic study of childhoods in different communities in California. Within this study, the children's photographs—and their talk about these and other images—illuminate distinctions between the urban spaces that outsiders might notice from particular urban places meaningful to children themselves. These images and commentaries reveal some of the ways in which the children's urban experiences are shaped by social class, gender, ethnicity, immigration, and racialization. They also confirm the importance of social relationships for the meanings that children attach to the urban landscapes in which they live.
Click-generated triazole ureas as ultrapotent in vivo–active serine hydrolase inhibitors

Serine hydrolases are a diverse enzyme class representing ∼1% of all human proteins. The biological functions of most serine hydrolases remain poorly characterized owing to a lack of selective inhibitors to probe their activity in living systems. Here we show that a substantial number of serine hydrolases can be irreversibly inactivated by 1,2,3-triazole ureas, which show negligible cross-reactivity with other protein classes. Rapid lead optimization by click chemistry-enabled synthesis and competitive activity-based profiling identified 1,2,3-triazole ureas that selectively inhibit enzymes from diverse branches of the serine hydrolase class, including peptidases (acyl-peptide hydrolase, or APEH), lipases (platelet-activating factor acetylhydrolase-2, or PAFAH2) and uncharacterized hydrolases (α,β-hydrolase-11, or ABHD11), with exceptional potency in cells (sub-nanomolar) and mice (<1 mg kg(-1)). We show that APEH inhibition leads to accumulation of N-acetylated proteins and promotes proliferation in T cells. These data indicate 1,2,3-triazole ureas are a pharmacologically privileged chemotype for serine hydrolase inhibition, combining broad activity across the serine hydrolase class with tunable selectivity for individual enzymes.
Cognitive control mechanisms, emotion and memory: A neural perspective with implications for psychopathology

In this paper we provide a focused review of the literature examining neural mechanisms involved in cognitive control over memory processes that can influence, and in turn are influenced by, emotional processes. The review is divided into two parts, the first focusing on working memory and the second on long-term memory. With regard to working memory, we discuss the neural bases of (1) control mechanisms that can select against distracting emotional information, (2) mechanisms that can regulate emotional reactions or responses, (3) how mood state influences cognitive control, and (4) individual differences in control mechanisms. For long-term memory, we briefly review (1) the neural substrates of emotional memory, (2) the cognitive and neural mechanisms that are involved in controlling emotional memories and (3) how these systems are altered in post-traumatic stress disorder. Finally, we consider tentative generalizations that can be drawn from this relatively unexplored conjunction of research endeavors.
The Lounge: Treatment for Chronic Schizophrenics

Recent advances in psychiatry have resulted in increased numbers of chronic schizophrenics being treated as outpatients. Reflecting a growing recognition that patients with the most severe psychiatric and social impairment often receive only minimal aftercare services, mental health centers are now confronting the challenge of offering appropriate treatment to these patients. One attempt to meet this challenge is the Lounge Program, an innovative, economical, humane, and highly flexible treatment modality, which is being proposed for treatment of chronic schizophrenics.
Spatial switching with optical vortex solitons

Summary form only given. In self-defocusing Kerr media the effects of nonlinear refraction and diffraction result in stationary filaments inside the light beam. Moreover, these stationary filaments, or vortices, are stable with constant radii and are highly resistant to change. They are called optical vortex solitons (OVS). The OVS is the only known cylindrical soliton in Kerr media. We have demonstrated the propagation of an OVS in the center of a green laser beam in a self-defocusing medium.
Public Opinion, Risk Assessment, and Biotechnology: Lessons from Attitudes toward Genetically Modified Foods in the European Union

Proponents of biotechnology argue that citizens’ opposition to innovations such as genetically modified (GM) foods is rooted in emotionalism, media and nongovernmental organizations’ distortions of good science, and scientific ignorance. Critics charge that this “risk management discursive” is too reductionist, exaggerates scientific capacity, inappropriately privileges scientific values over social and political values, and inaccurately captures how citizens evaluate biotechnology. This article uses ordered logit analysis applied to the responses of Europeans to a 2005 Eurobarometer survey to test the validity of these competing perspectives in the area of GM foods. Our analysis supports the arguments of those calling for the inclusion of broader discursive social, political, and cultural elements in deliberations over GM foods. Analysis also shows that citizens are less emotional in evaluating GM foods than proponents claim and supports this “new politics of knowledge” perspective, but citizens also cling more tightly to hopes that science can resolve debates with objective analysis. One of today’s most controversial biotechnology policy issues involves the development and consumption of genetically modified (GM) foods. With many developing nations already struggling to meet their citizens’ food and nutritional needs, with global populations slated to increase by 50 percent between now and 2050, and with concerns rising regarding how these needs can be met without causing largescale environmental problems, GM foods have attracted growing attention over the past two decades. Proponents’ optimism is fueled by three types of trait technology under development that they say promise to increase crop yields at lower net costs to farmers, with greater health benefits to consumers, and in more environmentally benign ways. The first, input trait technology, promises to breed bioengineered traits into crops to reduce substantially the use of environmentally harmful pesticides. These include traits such as herbicide tolerance, disease resistance, and insect resistance. The second, output trait technology, promises to bioengineer characteristics into seeds to increase nutrition, quality, appearance, and shelf life. For example, many scientists speak of GM plants becoming “micro-factories” in the near future, producing “neutraceuticals” to deal with malnutrition in developing countries. The third, agronomic trait technology, promises to bioengineer traits to afford additional protection against natural conditions and disasters that devastate the livelihood of farmers on marginal lands in poorer nations. Yet real or projected advances have been so controversial in this area of agricultural biotechnology that conflicts over GM food production and consumption have
Advances in the Management of Esophageal Perforation

Therapy for acute esophageal perforation in the last decade has benefited from newer technology in endoscopy and imaging. Success with nonoperative therapies such as endoluminal stenting and clipping has improved outcomes and shortened length of stay in selected patients. Iatrogenic injury currently comprises most acute esophageal perforation, and nonoperative therapy may be appropriate in a significant percentage of patients. The decision regarding operative vs non-operative therapy is best done by a dedicated surgical team with experience in all the surgical and endoscopic treatment options. Boerhaave syndrome occurs less often and may be treated with endoscopic therapy, although it more likely requires operative intervention. This article reviews current advances in the diagnosis and management of acute esophageal perforation.
Ultrasound diagnosis of multicystic dysplastic kidney: is a confirmatory nuclear medicine scan necessary?

Abstract Objective It is critical to differentiate between a multicystic dysplastic kidney (MCDK) and a kidney with severe hydronephrosis as the treatment varies significantly. We designed a study to compare renal ultrasound (RUS) to nuclear medicine (NM) scan in the diagnosis of MCDK, in order to determine if RUS can be used for the definitive diagnosis of MCKD without use of NM scan. Materials and methods We performed a retrospective review of children with MCDK, who underwent both a RUS and Tc-99m MAG3 or DMSA scan. We planned to calculate the positive predictive value of an RUS diagnosis of MCDK, using NM scan diagnosis of a nonfunctioning kidney as the gold standard. Results The diagnosis of MCDK was made by RUS in 91 patients, 84 of whom had a normal bladder US. NM confirmed the diagnosis of MCDK in all 84 of these patients (100%). Conclusion We have demonstrated a high predictive value for RUS in the diagnosis of MCDK. Our data support that in healthy infants with RUS diagnosis of unilateral MCDK and normal bladder US, NM scan may be unnecessary to confirm the diagnosis.
Polishing and Cleaning of Low K Dielectric Material for ild and Damascene

This paper describes CMP challenges in development of copper-low k process technology. As copper/oxide or copper/FSG backend schemes are being implemented successfully in early manufacturing, development focus has shifted to Cu/OSG (organo-silicate glass) integration development. Cu-OSG presents unique challenges with CMP integration, as these films tend to have much lower hardness than silicon dioxide. Significant process challenges have to be overcome prior to successfully implementing CMP process which does not mechanically damage the softer films and at the same time can achieve planarization requirements expected from CMP process. In addition, the OSG films tend to be hydrophobic leading to a need for developing improved cleaning processes/consumables. It was determined that Applied Materials ElectraPolishTM barrier slurry is extendable to OSG films. Good removal rate and removal profile can be achieved with ElectraPolishTM slurry. A proprietary cleaning solution reduced defect counts by 2 orders of magnitude as detected by SurfScan SS6200 on blanket OSG wafers. The same cleaning solution can be applied to copper/low-k patterned damascene wafers to clean both copper and dielectric surface. Polished OSG films have RMS roughness less than 2 angstroms and copper surface roughness about 5 angstroms with good surface finish. Blanket and patterned wafer results are presented to demonstrate final capability. Future directions for process enhancement are suggested.