cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Vibrational Energy Transfer and Heat Conduction in a Protein

The normal modes of myoglobin, their lifetimes, the speed of sound, and mean free path are calculated to determine the coefficient of thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity for the protein. A propensity is found for frequency differences of pairs of normal modes localized to nearby regions of the protein to be several hundred cm-1. As a result, the anharmonic decay rate of higher frequency, localized normal modes, calculated by perturbation theory, is typically nearly independent of temperature, consistent with results of pump−probe studies on myoglobin. The thermal diffusivity of myoglobin at 300 K is calculated to be 14 A2 ps-1, the same as the value for water. The thermal conductivity at 300 K is found to be 2.0 mW cm-1 K-1, about one-third the value for water.
Research Note: The Evaluation of Chicken Spermatozoa Using Fluorescent Staining in a 96-Well Format

Abstract An efficient method for the evaluation of spermatozoa using the fluorescent stains carboxyfluorescein diacetate and propidium iodide and an automated fluorescence concentration analyzer was adapted for chicken semen. Arbitrary fluorescence units representing either live or dead spermatozoa were strongly correlated with percentage of added dead spermatozoa and with the direct fluorescent microscope counts of live, dead, and damaged cells.
Ultra‐low‐frequency electrodynamics of the magnetosphere‐ionosphere interaction

[1] The results presented in this paper provide an explanation for electromagnetic oscillations with frequencies much less than the fundamental eigenfrequency of the magnetosphere measured in the regions where the ionospheric conductivity is low and a small-amplitude, large-scale electric field in the ionosphere exists. This study is based on numerical simulations of a reduced two-fluid MHD model describing propagation of dispersive Alfven waves in the highly inhomogeneous magnetospheric plasma and interaction between these waves and the active ionosphere. Simulations show that electromagnetic oscillations with frequency below 10 mHz can be generated by a strongly nonlinear interaction between magnetic field-aligned currents and the ionosphere called ionospheric feedback instability. To produce oscillations in ULF frequency range, this mechanism requires neither very stretched geometry of the ambient magnetic field nor coupling between shear and slow MHD waves. These features of the ionospheric feedback mechanism makes it particularly suitable for the explanation of the ULF oscillations detected on midlatitude and low-latitude, nightside field lines when the background ionospheric conductivity is low and the magnitude of the perpendicular electric field in the ionosphere is small.
A Metal Halide Lamp that Provides Unique Lightiig System Brightness and Uniformity Opportunities

Typically, metal halide lamps exhibit a substantial loss in efricacy and reduction in life when operated horizontally. A novel lamp design is described that permits transverse mounting of the optimal arc tube design within an outer bulb. Combined with a prefocusing type mogul base, this lamp operates the arc tube vertically while the outer bulb is horizontal. Thus the high lamp efficacy, long life, and better lumen output maintenance throughout life previously only available in the vertical burning lamp is available in the horizontal burning type. From an application viewpoint, a lighting fixture designed to utilize a horizontal burning lamp intrudes less into the plenum area. Particularly in a new multifloor construction, a reduction in plenum height can reduce initial cost. In addition to possible reduced cost, this horizontal burning lamp controls the direction in which light is emitted from the lamp that can result in lighting distributions from typical luminaires that provide better lighting uniformity and a reduction in luminaire luminance when compared with typical lamps having the arc tube parallel to the lamp axis. This improved system performance has applications in both indoor and outdoor lighting systems in existing and new lighting luminaires.
Potential Benefits for Caregivers of Stroke Survivors Receiving BTX-A and Exercise for Upper Extremity Spasticity

Purpose To explore possible extended benefits to caregivers of stroke survivors receiving a treatment of onabotulinumtoxinA (BTX-A) or saline with a structured exercise program. Design A comparative, prospective, companion study using a nonrandom sample of 16 caregivers of stroke survivors enrolled in a pilot clinical trial comparing BTX-A or saline and exercise for upper extremity spasticity. Methods The caregiver measures were depressive symptoms, care demands, family conflict surrounding stroke recovery, and mental and physical health status. Findings There were no statistically significant differences between caregiver groups. Caregivers of stroke survivors who received BTX-A had a greater change in depressive symptoms that may reflect a clinically important change. Estimates of effect sizes between the groups, controlling for baseline values, indicate a trend for moderate to large effects (last evaluation) for fewer depressive symptoms (d = 0.52) and less caregiver burden (d = 0.77 time, 0.85 difficulty) for caregivers of the BTX-A group. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance Receiving BTX-A did not alter caregiving demands or depressive symptoms compared to those receiving saline. Further research with larger sample sizes is needed to better understand the interdependence of stroke survivors and caregivers on the health of each.
A Multilayered Approach to Complex Surface Patterning

A method for developing complex nanopatterns on surfaces has been developed by combining self-assembly, photolabile protecting groups, and multilayered films. An o-nitrobenzyl protecting group has been incorporated into molecular level films utilizing thiol-gold interactions. When the o-nitrobenzyl group is cleaved by ultraviolet light, a carboxylic acid terminated layer remains on the surface and is available for activation and further functionalization through amide bond formation. Using this method, multilayered films have been constructed and characterized by contact angle goniometry, cyclic voltammetry, grazing incidence infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements. Complex surface patterns can be achieved by creating a surface array using a photomask and then further functionalizing the irradiated area through covalent coupling. Fluorophores were attached to the deprotected regions, providing visual evidence of surface patterning using fluorescence microscopy. This approa...
Functional analysis of a migraine-associated TRESK K+ channel mutation.

Recent genetic and functional studies suggest that migraine may result from abnormal activities of ion channels and transporters. A frameshift mutation in the human TWIK-related spinal cord K+ (TRESK) channel has been identified in migraine with aura patients in a large pedigree. In Xenopus oocytes, mutant TRESK subunits exert a dominant-negative effect on whole-cell TRESK currents. However, questions remain as to whether and how mutant TRESK subunits affect the membrane properties and the excitability of neurons in the migraine circuit. Here, we investigated the functional consequences of the mutant TRESK subunits in HEK293T cells and mouse trigeminal ganglion (TG) neurons. First, we found that mutant TRESK subunits exhibited dominant-negative effects not only on the size of the whole-cell TRESK currents, but also on the level of TRESK channels on the plasma membrane in HEK293T cells. This likely resulted from the heterodimerization of wild-type and mutant TRESK subunits. Next, we expressed mutant TRESK subunits in cultured TG neurons and observed a significant decrease in the lamotrigine-sensitive K+ current, suggesting that the mutant TRESK subunits have a dominant-negative effect on currents through the endogenous TRESK channels. Current-clamp recordings showed that neurons expressing mutant TRESK subunits had a higher input resistance, a lower current threshold for action potential initiation, and a higher spike frequency in response to suprathreshold stimuli, indicating that the mutation resulted in hyperexcitability of TG neurons. Our results suggest a possible mechanism through which the TRESK mutation increases the susceptibility of migraine headache.
Efficient in vivo gene expression by trans -splicing adeno-associated viral vectors

Although adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated gene therapy has been hindered by the small viral packaging capacity of the vector, trans-splicing AAV vectors are able to package twice the size of the vector genome. Unfortunately, the efficiency of current trans-splicing vectors is very low. Here we show that rational design of the gene splitting site has a profound influence on trans-splicing vector-mediated gene expression. Using mRNA accumulation as a guide, we generated a set of efficient trans-splicing vectors and achieved widespread expression of the 6-kb ΔH2-R19 mini-dystrophin gene in skeletal muscle of mdx mice, a model for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The dystrophic phenotype was ameliorated in both adult and aged mice. This demonstrates the use of trans-splicing vectors to efficiently express a large therapeutic structural protein. This strategy should be applicable to other large therapeutic genes or large transcription regulatory elements.
THE PHOTOADDITION OF NUCLEOPHILES TO URACIL

Abstract— Quantum yields for 254 nm ultraviolet photoaddition of the nucleophiles hydrazine, HCN, HSO3-, methyl amine, and BH4- to uracil have been measured; the quantum yields for hydrazine, HCN, and HSO3- additions are pH-dependent. The nucleophiles sulfide, azide, chloride, bromide, iodide, nitrite and thiocyanate failed to photo–add under similar conditions. These reactions are interpreted as 1,4-additions to the conjugated enone system of the anti-aromatic compound, uracil; as suggested by S. Y. Wang (Wang and Nnadi, 1968). The nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrum of the photohydrate of uracil-5-d-showed that the proton was added to the 5-position in a stereochemically random manner. The photoaddition of HSO3- takes place at much lower concentrations than required for the thermal addition of this anion and is also stereochemically random.
The effects of fast neutron, gamma-ray and combined radiations on the thermal decomposition of ammonium perchlorate powder-aluminum particle mixtures

The thermal decomposition kinetics of irradiated and unirradiated ammonium perchlorate and ammonium perchlorate powder-aluminum particle mixtures has been studied by determining decomposition gas pressurevs. heating time with samples at a controlled temperature Qualitatively the radiation induced changes are similar to those obtained in previous studies on ‘pure’ ammonium perchlorate. The induction period is shortened and the acceleratory and decay period rate constants are increased. The data have been analyzed using Avrami-Erofeev kinetics. The results for pure unirradiated material are in accord with published results. The activation energies for the induction, acceleratory and decay periods for pure pellets were found to be 133.5±6.7, 131.8±6.7 and 127.2±6.7 kJ·mol, respectively. Samples were exposed to either a single gamma-ray irradiation, fission neutron irradiation followed by a gamma-ray irradiation, or to a proton irradiation. When compared on an equal energy deposited basis, the fast neutron induced changes are appreciably larger than the gamma-ray changes. However, the proton induced changes are comparable or slightly more than the gamma-ray effects. Some, or all, of the fast neutron effects can be attributable to the concentrated radiation damage ‘spikes’ along the path of lattice atom recoils. It is likely that these become thermal decomposition sites when the crystals are heated. Protons create fewer spikes than fast neutrons. Overall, the results indicate that any ammonium perchlorate-aluminum propellant mixtures that may be exposed to radiation environments, such as used in this study, should be subjected to a thorough radiation effects analysis if reliable performance is required.
Structure and function of the β subunit of voltage-gated Ca2 + channels ☆

Abstract The voltage-gated Ca2 + channel β subunit (Cavβ) is a cytosolic auxiliary subunit that plays an essential role in regulating the surface expression and gating properties of high-voltage activated (HVA) Ca2 + channels. It is also crucial for the modulation of HVA Ca2 + channels by G proteins, kinases, Ras-related RGK GTPases, and other proteins. There are indications that Cavβ may carry out Ca2 + channel-independent functions. Cavβ knockouts are either non-viable or result in a severe pathophysiology, and mutations in Cavβ have been implicated in disease. In this article, we review the structure and various biological functions of Cavβ, as well as recent advances. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Calcium channels.
660 Rehospitalization and Resource Utilization among Continuous Flow VAD Patients

Purpose: To describe the frequency of and resource utilization related to rehospitalization among continuous-flow ventricular assist device patients. Methods and Materials: All patients implanted with a continuous-flow left ventricular assist device at a single institution between 7/1/2008 and 11/1/2010. Hospital admissions following discharge from the implant hospitalization were analyzed. Outcome measures included frequency of rehospitalization, hospital length of stay, ICU days, and cost.
The Elton John problem and parsimonious prediction

The 'Elton John' problem envisions candles blowing in the wind to motivate reasoning about prediction methods. The 'maximize smoothness but maintain trend' method has desirable parsimony when both data quantity and understanding are limited.
Energetics of disorder-induced dislocations

A randomly pinned elastic medium in two dimensions is modeled by a disordered fully packed loop (FPL) model. The energetics of disorder-induced dislocations is studied using exact and polynomial algorithms from combinatorial optimization. Dislocations are found to become unbound at large scale, and the elastic phase is, thus, unstable giving evidence for the absence of a Bragg glass in two dimensions.
Recent advances in T-cell regulation relevant to inflammatory dermatopathology.

Inflammatory dermatoses encompass an enormous area of dermatopathology. Our understanding of the subject comes from combination of histopathological observations and relevant clinical information. Diagnoses are generally reached at the hematoxylin and eosin (HE however, the new information will surely channel into our practice to provide a better, more accurate, semi-individualized diagnostic approach in the not too far future.
A road map to ARPA involvement in electronic packaging

The application of advanced electronic packaging and interconnect (EP/I) technology by US Department of Defense's Advance Research Projects Agency are discussed. The EP/I domain includes packages, multichip modules (MCMs), connectors, printed circuit boards (PCBs), boxes, backplanes, and cages. The EP/I physical technologies, including diamond substrates, superconductors, and metal matrix packages, are discussed, and information technologies are described. >
Eukaryotic DNA primase

Eukaryotic DNA primase initiates the synthesis of all new DNA strands by synthesizing short RNA oligomers on single-stranded DNA. Additionally, primase helps couple replication and repair and is critical for telomere maintenance and, therefore, chromosome stability. In light of the many aspects of DNA metabolism in which primase is involved, understanding the unique features of the mechanism of this enzyme and how it interacts with other proteins will greatly advance our knowledge of DNA replication and repair.
The wetting of thin films of organo-bentonite complexes

Abstract The wetting by water of thin films of the decyl-, dodecyl-, tetradecyl-, hexadecyl-, and octadecylamine complexes of Wyoming bentonite was studied. The films were formed by evaporation, adsorption, and Langmuir-Blodgett (L.B.) techniques. Advancing contact angles averaged about 4° higher for evaporated films than for adsorbed or L.B. films. Hysteresis was high (30°–40°) and receding angles were less reproducible than advancing angles. Advancing angle behavior could be fitted by Cassie's equation for the range of surface coverages studied.
A Duoprocess Model for Paired-Associate Learning:

A mathematical model for paired-associate learning is presented. It accounts for both the learning of correct alternatives and elimination of incorrect alternatives on an all-or-none basis. The mod...
Influence of ortho-substitution on patterns of PCB accumulation in sediment plankton, and fish in a freshwater estuary

The accumulation of a group of non- and mono-ortho (coplanar) PCB congeners in aquatic food webs is of special interest due to their dioxin-like toxicities. Furthermore, higher octanol−water partition coefficients than homologs with greater ortho-substitution suggest the potential for selective accumulation of the coplanar congeners. We quantified 47 PCB congeners containing 0−3 ortho-chlorines from six homolog groups in sediments, plankton, and fish from Green Bay, WI, using conventional and multidimensional gas chromatography with electron capture detection. Of the congeners exhibiting dioxin-like toxicity, the only non-ortho-substituted congener quantifiable in any of the matrices was IUPAC 77, but all of the toxic mono-ortho-substituted congeners were detected and quantified. Penta-, hexa-, and heptachloro congeners were enriched relative to other congeners in sediments and fish located more distant from the main source of the bay, whereas trichloro congeners were depleted. The same homolog groups als...
ANALYSIS OF LASER BACKSCATTERING FROM SOLID FUEL ROCKET PLUMES

Analyses have been carried out for a ground-based experiment to measure laser backscattering from solid fuel rocket plumes. Mie scattering theory was used to compute the returned laser power as a function of range, wavelength, and scattering angle. The feasibility of retrieval of plume particle properties through various inversion methods was examined. The effects of atmospheric conditions on the detectability of the returned signal were also considered.
High-precision nonperturbative QCD

Abstract Recent advances in lattice QCD have resulted in the first simulations with realistic quark vacuum polarization. Consequently a wide variety of high-precision (few percent) nonperturbative calculations are possible now. This paper reviews the recent developments that make this possible, and presents early evidence that the era of high-precision nonperturbative QCD is at hand. It also discusses the future impact of lattice QCD on experiments, and particularly for heavy-quark physics.
Effects o immediate vs. delayed outcomes in associative learning

College student Ss were given two trials on each of 3 lists of stimulus words with either 2 or 4 digits as response alternatives. On immediate outcome items, E said “Right” or “Wrong” immediately after S's response. On delayed outcome items, E informed S that his response had been “Right” or “Wrong” the next time the item was presented. On no-information items E gave no information on either trial. Delayed “Wrong” led to significantly less response repetition than all other conditions. Differences among other conditions were generally not significant.
The Potato Tuberworm: A Literature Review of Its Biology, Ecology, and Control

The potato tuberworm, Phthorimaea operculella (Zeller), is a worldwide pest of solanaceous crops especially devastating to potatoes. Adults mate and lay eggs in foliage or tubers throughout the growing season, preferring foliage over tubers. When foliage has naturally or artificially senesced and/or tubers are accessible, they deposit eggs in or near the eye buds. The larvae mine leaves, stems, and petioles causing irregular galleries, and excavate tunnels through tubers. Foliar damage to the potato crop usually does not result in significant yield losses but infested tubers may have reduced marketability and losses in storage may be up to 100% especially in non-refrigerated systems. The greatest risk of tuber damage occurs immediately before harvest while the crop is left in the field prior to digging; additional damage may occur in storage, if conditions are not maintained properly. Potatoes that are left in the field for any length of time can become infested. The pest is difficult to control and growers rely extensively on the use of insecticides and a variety of cultural practices. After harvest, the insect may continue to develop on tubers or volunteer plants remaining in the field as well as on other solanaceous plants. Incorporation of host plant resistance together with insecticides and appropriate biological and cultural practices may provide the best management options. This review addresses P. operculella bionomics, including origins, distribution, host range, life cycle and life stage behavior; seasonal dynamics; abiotic factors; cultural, biological, and chemical control methods; and host plant resistance.
Electrically induced and voluntary activation of physiologic muscle pump: a comparison between spinal cord-injured and able-bodied individuals

Objective: To evaluate the central haemodynamic responses during position changes from supine to sitting and during 30 min of standing between able-bodied and spinal cord-injured subjects. Also to assess the effects of the physiologic muscle pump in both groups during 30 min of standing.Design: A repeated measure design. Both groups were tested on two different days under two conditions of 30 min of stationary standing and 30 min of dynamic standing (voluntary activation of the lower leg muscles in able-bodied and FES-induced activation of these muscles in spinal cord injured). The order of testing was random.Setting: Rehabilitation hospital.Subjects: Fifteen healthy able-bodied and 14 healthy spinal cord-injured subjects.Main outcome measured: Stroke volume, cardiac output, heart rate, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure and total peripheral resistance during supine–pre sitting, sitting–pre standing and during 30 min of standing.Results: Significant reductions (p< 0....
Properties of cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase in rat liver microsomal acetone powder

Rat liver microsomes were extracted with acetone, and a microsomal powder preparation was obtained. The cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase activity of acetone powder was linear with time, the amount of protein, and the amount of cholesterol in human or rat serum. Unesterified lipoprotein cholesterol was also an effective substrate, and the Km values increased progressively from high-density lipoprotein (HDL) to low-density lipoprotein (LDL) to very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), suggesting that HDL-free-cholesterol was the better substrate.
A Phenomenological Model for Predicting Fatigue Life in Bovine Trabecular Bone

Cyclic loading of bone during daily activities can lead to fatigue degradation and increased risk of fracture in both the young and elderly population. Damage processes under cyclic loading in trabecular bone result in the reduction of the elastic modulus and accumulation of residual strain. These effects increase with increasing stress levels, leading to a progressive reduction in fatigue life. The present work analyzes the effect of stress and strain variation on the above damage processes in bovine trabecular bone, and develops a phenomenological model relating fatigue life to the imposed stress level. The elastic modulus reduction of the bone specimens was observed to depend on the maximum compressive strain, while the rate of residual strain accumulation was a function of the stress level. A model was developed for the upper and lower bounds of bone elastic modulus reduction with increasing number of cycles, at each stress range. The experimental observations were described well by the model. The model predicted the bounds of the fatigue life with change in fatigue stress. The decrease in the fatigue life with increasing stress was related to corresponding increases in the residual strain accumulation rates at the elevated stress levels. The model shows the validity of fatigue predictions from relatively few cyclic experiments, by combining trends observed in the monotonic and the cyclic tests. The model also presents a relatively simple procedure for predicting the endurance limit for bovine trabecular bone specimens.
Medical aspects of volcanic disasters: An outline of the hazards and emergency response measures

The health and safety hazards posed by volcanic eruptions are outlined with special reference to experience gained from the eruptions of Mount St. Helens in 1980. The ability of volcanologists to predict the timing and the impact on local communities of an impending eruption are limited, some recent devastating eruptions having occurred without apparent warning. With the expansion of world populations into hazardous volcanic areas there is a growing need to develop appropriate emergency response measures. This paper describes the main preventive public and occupational health measures that are now a necessary part in dealing with volcanic emergencies.
The optimal management of malrotation diagnosed after infancy: a decision analysis.

Abstract Background The benefit of a prophylactic Ladd’s procedure in older children and adults with malrotation is controversial. The purpose of this study was to determine the role of the Ladd’s procedure in patients with asymptomatic malrotation diagnosed after infancy. Methods A Markov decision analysis was used to compare the quality adjusted life expectancy with and without a Ladd’s procedure among patients with asymptomatic malrotation. Data obtained from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample were used to estimate the age-related probability of emergency surgery or volvulus among patients with malrotation. Estimates of the mortality of elective and emergency surgery, mortality of volvulus, and utilities of each health state were obtained from the literature. Results After infancy, the gain in quality adjusted life expectancy associated with a prophylactic Ladd’s procedure was highest when asymptomatic malrotation was treated at 1 year old and steadily declined until asymptomatic malrotation was treated at 20 years old. An increasing advantage of observation over prophylactic surgery on life expectancy was observed after the second decade of life. A 2-fold increase in mortality risk for an elective Ladd’s procedure decreased the age threshold to 14 years, whereas a 4-fold increase decreased the threshold to 7 years. These results were found to be robust by sensitivity analyses and Monte Carlo simulation. Conclusion A Ladd’s procedure should be considered for children diagnosed with asymptomatic malrotation, particularly those who are younger and with a low risk of postoperative mortality. The rare occurrence of midgut volvulus does not justify performing a prophylactic Ladd’s procedure on most adults with malrotation.
Visualizing with the future

Education begins with the young and it is up to us to provide students with the necessary skills to survive and prosper in our ever changing society. It is difficult for students to keep up with the rapid technological advancements, so we at the Ohio Supercomputer Center (OSC) decided to make a difference.For the past 2 years, we have participated in a Governor's Summer Institute (GSI). GSI consists of mini programs much like summer camps for high school students around the state of Ohio. For two weeks during the summer, students may select from several summer programs covering various fields. The Governor's Summer Institute presented by the OSC was entitled “Supercomputers in Today's Society”. During our program, freshmen and sophomores in high school have an opportunity to use a CRAY Y-MP8/864, a sundry of high end workstations, and a suite of video production equipment.Basic programming skills were taught on Macintosh computers using the PASCAL language, then the students were divided into groups of their choosing to work on selected research projects developed by the OSC staff. Not all of their time was spent programming. Guest speakers were invited to discuss various supercomputing applications. Topics on art and music and how they relate to computing were also presented. Other activities included group participation at an outdoor day camp and a visit to the Center of Science & Industry (COSI).By the end of the two week period, the students departed with a video tape including animations from their research projects as well as the times they shared at the center.
P 203. A historical development of transcranial electrical stimulation: Dose development from 1900 to contemporary approaches

Transcranial Electrical Stimulation (TES) encompasses all forms of non-invasive current application to the brain in regards to research and clinical applications. Approaches to TES have evolved in both terminology and dosage over the past 100 years of research. We outline the dose and historical development of TES since 1900 through modern approaches. Contemporary transcranial Pulsed Current Stimulation (tPCS) approaches such as Cranial Electrotherapy Stimulation (CES) and NeuroElectric Therapy (NET) descended from Electrosleep (ES) while others like Transcutaneous Cranial Electrical Stimulation (TCES), and Limoge, descended from Electroanesthesia (EA). Contemporary approaches such as transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) and transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation (tACS) have historical analogues. We consider the role of seminal conferences and medical device regulations in the evolution of techniques and terminology. Select commercial devices and brands are noted for context. We clarify and disambiguate TES terminology including varied conventions across countries, and non-TES techniques. Understanding the roots of contemporary TES approaches in comparable approaches spanning decades, as well as the resurgence and abandonment of past techniques, may inform ongoing TES research.
Virtual Burst Assembly - A Solution to Out-of-Sequence Delivery in Optical Burst Switching Networks

Optical burst switching (OBS) has been considered the most promising optical switching technology. To the best of authors' knowledge, this is the first paper that identifies the out- of-sequence delivery problem in OBS networks. To minimize the impact of the out-of-sequence delivery on buffer space and resequencing latency, we propose a novel virtual burst assembly scheme to eliminate the problem. In addition to simulation results obtained from the OBS-ns2 simulator, we implemented the proposed virtual burst assembly scheme in Altera Stratix II FPGA hardware using Verilog HDL, and tested experimentally using real video. Both simulation and experimental results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed scheme.
The effect of low levels of stimulus intensity upon the orienting response

Sokolov’s prediction of an inverse relationship between Orienting Response (OR) strength and low levels of stimulus intensity was tested using 48 Ss and four stimulus intensity conditions. GSRs to a series of tones, 20, 30, 40, or 50 dB in intensity, was employed as the measure of the OR. When spontaneous GSR frequency was held constant, OR resistance to habituation was found to be a direct function of stimulus intensity, contrary to Sokolov’s prediction.
Synchronization and Grammatical Inference in an Oscillating Elman Net

We have designed an architecture to span the gap between biophysics and cognitive science to address and explore issues of how a discrete symbol processing system can arise from the continuum, and how complex dynamics like oscillation and synchronization can then be employed in its operation and affect its learning. We show how a discrete-time recurrent "Elman" network architecture can be constructed from recurrently connected oscillatory associative memory modules described by continuous nonlinear ordinary differential equations. The modules can learn connection weights between themselves which will cause the system to evolve under a clocked "machine cycle" by a sequence of transitions of attractors within the modules, much as a digital computer evolves by transitions of its binary flip-flop attractors. The architecture thus employs the principle of "computing with attractors" used by macroscopic systems for reliable computation in the presence of noise. We have specifically constructed a system which functions as a finite state automaton that recognizes or generates the infinite set of six symbol strings that are defined by a Reber grammar. It is a symbol processing system, but with analog input and oscillatory subsymbolic representations. The time steps (machine cycles) of the system are implemented by rhythmic variation (clocking) of a bifurcation parameter. This holds input and "context" modules clamped at their attractors while 'hidden and output modules change state, then clamps hidden and output states while context modules are released to load those states as the new context for the next cycle of input. Superior noise immunity has been demonstrated for systems with dynamic attractors over systems with static attractors, and synchronization ("binding") between coupled oscillatory attractors in different modules has been shown to be important for effecting reliable transitions.
Laminar differences in sizes, shapes, and response profiles of cutaneous receptive fields in the rat SI cortex.

Quantitative techniques were used to demonstrate cortical layer differences in cutaneous receptive fields (RF's) in the rat SI cortex. Two- and three-dimensional (2-D and 3-D) RF maps were constructed showing the responsiveness of single neurons to standardized punctate stimulation of each of a matrix of points on the skin or the mystacial vibrissa pad. These allowed a visualization not only of the overall sizes of such RF's, but also their shape and “response profile”. Initial experiments showed that the sizes and response profiles of such RF's were similar whether they were mapped by sinusoidal mechanical vibration of skin, punctate touch, or direct intracutaneous electrical stimulation. This method was used to quantitatively determine distoproximal lengths of RF's of single units recorded at different depths in the forepaw area of the SI cortex. Plots of these RF lengths as a function of cortical depth showed that the smallest RF's were found in the granular layers (IV and deep III). RF's up to double that size were found in supragranular layers, and up to triple that size in infragranular layers. 3-D maps of RF's in the granular layers showed sharp central response peaks surrounded by very steep dropoffs to the RF boundaries. In the whisker areas, granular layer RF's were typically circular in shape and contained from 1–4 whiskers. By contrast, in supragranular layers they were often elongated in shape, and were oriented along rows or columns of whiskers. RF's in layer V resembled large, high plateaus, often supporting clearly separated peaks. RF's mapped in the fore- and hindpaw areas were similar, but, even in the granular layers, were often slightly elongated along the limb axis. In all regions of the SI, both the locations and shapes of the granular layer RF's appeared to be conserved as subsets of other more topographically heterogeneous RF's encountered elsewhere in the column. These findings may correlate with patterns of axonal connectivity in the rat SI.
Organization and Synaptic Ultrastructure of Glomeruli in the Antennal Lobes of the Moth Manduca sexta: A Study Using Thin Sections and Freeze-Fracture

The antennal lobe of the brain of Manduca sexta comprises a central area of coarse neuropil surrounded by dense, spheroidal glomeruli, where all synaptic interactions between antennal-nerve axons and the second-order neurons of the lobe occur. Neuronal interactions in the glomeruli are complex, involving several types of neuritic profiles and mediated by synapses with a one-to-many ratio of pre- to postsynaptic elements. Presynaptic profiles in the glomeruli have been categorized into three types, containing round clear vesicles, large numbers of large dense-cored vesicles, and pleiomorphic clear vesicles, respectively. Preliminary studies of horseradish peroxidase-filled axons and neurons indicate that antennal-nerve axons form synapses without large numbers of dense-cored vesicles and that antennal-lobe neurons not only receive synapses but also may synapse onto other elements in the antennal lobe. A typical synaptic contact involves multiple postsynaptic elements apposed in pairs to an individual presynaptic element. The presynaptic element contains a bar-shaped membrane-associated density, which follows a shallow groove in the membrane and is flanked by synaptic vesicles. Postsynaptic elements are lined by membrane-associated densities in the region opposite to the synaptic bar, and may be observed to participate in serial synapses. Freeze-fracture replicas of the glomerular neuropil contain many membrane specializations that are thought to be presynaptic, some of which resemble those of vertebrate excitatory synapses. At these apparently presynaptic regions, large particles cluster in the P face of the membrane and are often surrounded by plasmalemmal deformations presumably representing sites of exo- or endocytosis. The shape of the predominant type of presynaptic membrane specialization (a plaque) does not match the shape of the presynaptic membrane-associated density (a bar); this raises the possibility that vesicle release occurs at isolated `active zones9 along the presynaptic bar. Postsynaptic sites are represented by clusters of large particles in the E face of the postsynaptic membrane.
RS-WebPredictor

Summary: Regioselectivity-WebPredictor (RS-WebPredictor) is a server that predicts isozyme-specific cytochrome P450 (CYP)-mediated sites of metabolism (SOMs) on drug-like molecules. Predictions may be made for the promiscuous 2C9, 2D6 and 3A4 CYP isozymes, as well as CYPs 1A2, 2A6, 2B6, 2C8, 2C19 and 2E1. RS-WebPredictor is the first freely accessible server that predicts the regioselectivity of the last six isozymes. Server execution time is fast, taking on average 2s to encode a submitted molecule and 1s to apply a given model, allowing for high-throughput use in lead optimization projects. Availability: RS-WebPredictor is accessible for free use at http://reccr.chem.rpi.edu/Software/RS-WebPredictor/ Contact: brenec@rpi.edu
U1 snRNP-Dependent Suppression of Polyadenylation: Physiological Role and Therapeutic Opportunities in Cancer.

Pre-mRNA splicing and polyadenylation are critical steps in the maturation of eukaryotic mRNA. U1 snRNP is an essential component of the splicing machinery and participates in splice-site selection and spliceosome assembly by base-pairing to the 5′ splice site. U1 snRNP also plays an additional, nonsplicing global function in 3′ end mRNA processing; it actively suppresses the polyadenylation machinery from using early, mostly intronic polyadenylation signals which would lead to aberrant, truncated mRNAs. Thus, U1 snRNP safeguards pre-mRNA transcripts against premature polyadenylation and contributes to the regulation of alternative polyadenylation. Here, we review the role of U1 snRNP in 3′ end mRNA processing, outline the evidence that led to the recognition of its physiological, general role in inhibiting polyadenylation, and finally highlight the possibility of manipulating this U1 snRNP function for therapeutic purposes in cancer.
Wildland-urban interface housing growth during the 1990s in California, Oregon, and Washington

In the present study, we examine housing growth in California, Oregon, and Washington in the wildland-urban interface (WUI), the area where homes and other structures abut or intermingle with wildland vegetation. We combine housing density information from the 1990 and 2000 USA censuses with land cover information from the 1992/93 National Land Cover Dataset to demarcate the location and extent of the WUI and its growth, both in terms of area and number of housing units during the 1990s. We overlay the WUI with coarse-scale fire regime condition class information to evaluate implications for wildland fire management. During the 1990s, WUI area in the three-state region increased by 5218 km 2 (10.9%) to nearly 53 000 km 2 and the number of housing units in the WUI increased over 1 million units (17.6%) and in 2000 encompassed 6.9 million units, 43% of all housing in the region. Over a million new homes were constructed in the WUI, comprising 61% of the new homes constructed in the region. By 2000, there was far more intermix WUI (75% of the WUI area and 64% of the WUI housing units) than interface WUI. Expansion of the WUI accounted for only 13% of WUI housing unit growth and WUI that existed in 1990 encompassed 98% of WUI housing units in 2000. In 2000, there were nearly 1.5 million WUI housing units in areas with 0-35-year fire return intervals and 3.4 million in areas with 35-100+ year fire return intervals. In both these fire regimes, the majority of WUI housing units (66% and 90% respectively) are in areas with a current condition outside the historic range of variability. Housing growth patterns in this three-state region are exacerbating wildland fire problems in the WUI. Any long-term solution to wildland fire issues in the western United States will have to address housing growth patterns. Using a consistent, nationally applicable assessment protocol, the present study reveals the vast extent of WUI in the west coast states and its growth in the 1990s, and provides a foundation for consistent monitoring efforts.
A fluid-mechanics-based classification scheme for surface transient storage in riverine environments: quantitatively separating surface from hyporheic transient storage

Abstract. Surface transient storage (STS) and hyporheic transient storage (HTS) have functional significance in stream ecology and hydrology. Currently, tracer techniques couple STS and HTS effects on stream nutrient cycling; however, STS resides in localized areas of the surface stream and HTS resides in the hyporheic zone. These contrasting environments result in different storage and exchange mechanisms with the surface stream, which can yield contrasting results when comparing transient storage effects among morphologically diverse streams. We propose a fluid mechanics approach to quantitatively separate STS from HTS that involves classifying and studying different types of STS. As a starting point, a classification scheme is needed. This paper introduces a classification scheme that categorizes different STS in riverine systems based on their flow structure. Eight STS types are identified and some are subcategorized based on characteristic mean flow structure: (1) lateral cavities (emergent and submerged); (2) protruding in-channel flow obstructions (backward- and forward-facing step); (3) isolated in-channel flow obstructions (emergent and submerged); (4) cascades and riffles; (5) aquatic vegetation (emergent and submerged); (6) pools (vertically submerged cavity, closed cavity, and recirculating reservoir); (7) meander bends; and (8) confluence of streams. The long-term goal is to use the classification scheme presented to develop predictive mean residence times for different STS using field-measurable hydromorphic parameters and obtain an effective STS mean residence time. The effective STS mean residence time can then be deconvolved from the transient storage residence time distribution (measured from a tracer test) to obtain an estimate of HTS mean residence time.
Note-Opposition of Interest in Subjective Bayesian Theory

A characterization is given of diametrically opposed interests between two players: either neither is a Bayesian, or both have a unique probability and utility function up to the usual transformation or both have many possible probabilities and utilities. In the second case, their utility functions must have representations that sum to zero, and they must have identical probability distributions on every uncertain event in the space. Implications of this result for negotiations and for game theory are discussed.
A mechanism for circadian control of pacemaker neuron excitability

Although the intracellular molecular clocks that regulate circadian (~24 h) behavioral rhythms are well understood, it remains unclear how molecular clock information is transduced into rhythmic ne...
Developmental Stress, Song-Learning, and Cognition

Synopsis The evolution of enhanced cognitive ability has sometimes been attributed to sexual selection. An association between the mating success of males and their cognitive ability could arise either through male–male competition or through female choice. Specifically in the latter case, sexual selection would act more readily if males advertized their cognitive ability through display. Most traits involved in sexual display, however, seem unlikely to have any inherent relationship with cognition beyond that which arises through the effect of cognitive abilities on acquisition of resources and, in turn, the effect of resources on development of the display trait. In contrast, for displays whose development and expression require learning, a direct link with cognition is possible because of a shared dependence on brain function. The parallel effects of developmental stress on song-learning and cognition provide a compelling explanation for an association between attributes of the song and cognitive ability. We outline the hypothesis that sexually selected qualities of song serve as an indicator of cognitive abilities. We first present evidence that song-learning is itself a challenging cognitive task. We then give evidence that sexual selection favors well-learned song. Next, we review evidence that song and cognitive ability both are affected by developmental stresses. We consider recent experimental data testing the relationship between song and cognitive ability. Finally, we suggest that the accuracy with which songs are learned may be an optimal indicator of other cognitive abilities.
UC blood infection with clinical strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis: a novel model.

BackgroundUse of unrelated cord blood transplantation (UCBT) is increasing, yet high rates of mortality secondary to infection remain a problem. We investigated the utility of using umbilical cord blood (UCB) as a model to study a naive cell population challenged by Mycobacteriumtuberculosis.MethodsMononuclear cells were isolated from nine UCB samples and infected with each of four distinct strains of M. tuberculosis. The isolates used were two highly transmissible clinical strains, the virulent laboratory strain H37Rv and a unique strain isolated from only one case (i.e. non-virulent). CFU were assessed at 3 h post-infection (day 0) and at day 7 to generate growth curves. Viability of the mononuclear cells was assessed prior to infection, 3 h post-infection and at days 3, 5 and 7 post-infection. IFN-γ and TNF-α levels were determined at 24 h post-infection.ResultsAll three of the virulent strains demonstrated rapid growth in UCB cells that was significantly faster than the growth rate observed for the no...
Church and State in Spain

With no other country save possibly Italy has the Roman Catholic Church been more closely linked than with Spain. To think Spain was to think Roman Catholicism. Ferdinand and Isabella whom the world remembers best in relation to the discovery of the western world were known as the Catholic kings and their oft expressed motive in the conquest of the new continent was that of extending the holy faith. Mohammedanism with its resistless armies had made heavy inroads upon the Christian world; Luther and his fellow reformers in Germany, France, and Switzerland had wrought still further havoc, separating vast numbers of the faithful from their allegiance to Rome. To Spain and the Spanish monarchs was to belong the glory of restoring, by their zealous conversion of the western peoples, the power and prestige of Rome. In a few short years Spanish conquerors followed by Spanish priests and nuns had planted the cross from Mexico to the southern end of South America.