cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Forget before you remember: dynamic mechanism of memory decay and retrieval

Sensory systems are confronted with a continuous stream of inputs, but only a small fraction of these sensory stimuli reaches our awareness, is consciously perceived and can be remembered. Perception is never driven solely by the bottom-up stimulation, but crucially depends on the top-down modulations. Top-down signals convey behavioral context, such as attention, expectation and perceptual task, and are reflected in the context-specific response modulation in single neurons (Miller and Cohen, 2001; Corbetta and Shulman, 2002). Top-down interactions can be of many different kinds: augmenting or multiplying responses, sharpening tuning curves, controlling contextual influences, or acting as a modulator of plasticity (Desimone and Duncan, 1995; Maunsell and Treue, 2006). Although a lot of empirical knowledge has been accumulated on how top-down interactions modulate neural responses, only a few theoretical attempts have been made so far to explain the underlying biophysical mechanisms and to bridge the gap between the behavioral and single-cell data (Buia and Tiesinga, 2006; Deco and Rolls, 2006; Ardid et al., 2007).
Observation of strain-enhanced electron-spin polarization in photoemission from InGaAs.

Electron-spin polarization in excess of 70% has been observed in photoemission from a 0.1-\ensuremath{\mu}m-thick epitaxial layer of ${\mathrm{In}}_{\mathit{x}}$${\mathrm{Ga}}_{1\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathit{x}}$As with x\ensuremath{\approxeq}0.13 grown on a GaAs substrate. Under these conditions, the epitaxial layer is expected to be highly strained by the 0.9% lattice mismatch. The electron polarization and the quantum efficiency have been measured as a function of the excitation photon energy from 1.25 to 2.0 eV. A significant enhancement of the electron polarization occurs in the vicinity of 1.33 eV where the expected strain-induced level splitting permits optical excitation of a single-band transition.
Structure-function of the cytochrome b6f complex

The structure and function of the cytochrome b6f complex is considered in the context of recent crystal structures of the complex as an eight subunit, 220 kDa symmetric dimeric complex obtained from the thermophilic cyanobacterium, Mastigocladus laminosus, and the green alga, Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. A major problem confronted in crystallization of the cyanobacterial complex, proteolysis of three of the subunits, is discussed along with initial efforts to identify the protease. The evolution of these cytochrome complexes is illustrated by conservation of the hydrophobic heme-binding transmembrane domain of the cyt b polypeptide between b6f and bc1 complexes, and the rubredoxin-like membrane proximal domain of the Rieske [2Fe-2S] protein. Pathways of coupled electron and proton transfer are discussed in the framework of a modified Q cycle, in which the heme c(n), not found in the bc1 complex, but electronically tightly coupled to the heme b(n) of the b6f complex, is included. Crystal structures of the cyanobacterial complex with the quinone analogue inhibitors, NQNO or tridecyl-stigmatellin, show the latter to be ligands of heme c(n), implicating heme c(n) as an n-side plastoquinone reductase. Existing questions include (a) the details of the shuttle of: (i) the [2Fe-2S] protein between the membrane-bound PQH2 electron/H+ donor and the cytochrome f acceptor to complete the p-side electron transfer circuit; (ii) PQ/PQH2 between n- and p-sides of the complex across the intermonomer quinone exchange cavity, through the narrow portal connecting the cavity with the p-side [2Fe-2S] niche; (b) the role of the n-side of the b6f complex and heme c(n) in regulation of the relative rates of noncyclic and cyclic electron transfer. The likely presence of cyclic electron transport in the b6f complex, and of heme c(n) in the firmicute bc complex suggests the concept that hemes b(n)-c(n) define a branch point in bc complexes that can support electron transport pathways that differ in detail from the Q cycle supported by the bc1 complex.
Evanescent-wave IR spectroscopy of single-bilayer membranes coated on chalcogenide fibers: sensitivity improvements using a diamond rod coupler between fiber and source

By means of evanescent wave absorption spectroscopy of single-bilayer biological membranes coated on optical fibers, we have measured such phenomena as lipid phase transitions and incorporation into the bilayer of small antibiotic peptides. A key innovation which has resulted in a substantial increase in sensitivity is our use of a 500 micrometers diameter diamond rod as a direct optical coupling device between an IR blackbody source and the 500 micrometers optical fiber. One of the rod's ends is in direct contact with the hot SiC source, while the other abuts the cleaved end of the AsSeTe fiber. The fiber passes through a custom-built Langmuir- Blodgett trough, then into the emission port of our spectrometer where its output is collimated into the interferometer. An important property of our method of coupling light into the fiber is that it allows the excitation of a very wide range of the fiber's optical modes. This has allowed us to obtain excellent evanescent-wave spectra of liquids even using fibers with the protective plastic coating still on them.
Whipple Disease of the Central Nervous System

Whipple disease (WD) is a systemic disorder caused by the bacterium Tropheryma whipplei. Since the recognition of a bacterial etiology in 1961, many attempts have been made to cultivate this bacterium in vitro. It was eventually isolated, in 2000, from an infected heart valve, in coculture with human fibroblasts. Here we report the isolation of 2 new strains of T. whipplei from cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of 2 patients with intestinal WD but no neurological signs or symptoms. One culture-positive specimen was obtained before treatment; the other was obtained 12 months after discontinuation of therapy, at a time of intestinal remission. In both cases, 15 passages of the cultures were completed over 17 months. Bacterial growth was measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, which suggested a generation time of 4 days. Staining with YO-PRO nucleic-acid dye showed characteristic rod-shaped bacteria arranged in chains. Fluorescent in situ hybridization with a T. whipplei-specific oligonucleotide probe, a broad-range bacterial probe, and a nonspecific nucleic-acid stain indicated that all visible bacteria were T. whipplei. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy showed both intracellular and extracellular bacteria. This first isolation of T. whipplei from CSF provides clear evidence of viable bacteria in the central nervous system in individuals with WD, even after prolonged antibiotic therapy.
Cellular pattern recognition towards discrimination of normal skin from melanoma in non-invasive confocal imaging

Cellular histopathological melanoma screening is critical but expensive/invasive. Confocal screening is cheap/noninvasive but data interpretation remains difficult. Human terminology for biological features is insufficient to fully exploit the diagnostic value, so we propose automated quantitative morphometry. Normal diagnostic traits include a regularly organized spinous keratinocyte matrix on an underlying smooth basal keritinocyte layer. Computational identification of dark nuclei in spinous keratinocytes and bright pigmented basal keratinocytes yields two distinct regions: basal and super-basal. These independent algorithms usually yield complementary regions but occasionally overlap or leave gaps. Improved microanatomical discrimination will yield a better diagnostic map to evaluate morphology for cancer detection.
The effect of quinacrine on oxidative stress in kidney tissue stored at low temperature after warm ischemic injury.

Rabbit kidney cortex tissue slices were made ischemic (37 degrees C) for 60 min and then either reperfused in warm (37 degrees C) oxygenated physiologic buffer for 210 min or placed in UW Na gluconate solution (+/- quinacrine; 100 micromol/L) for 18 h followed by warm aerobic reperfusion. Slices were sampled at intervals and analyzed for malondialdehyde (MDA) content by HPLC. Control (nonischemic) slices had no change in MDA content over the duration of the experiment. Hypothermic storage of nonischemic slices did not result in any increase in MDA during reperfusion. Ischemic slices showed significant increases in MDA content during the first 1.5 h of reperfusion and remained elevated for the remainder of the experiment. Hypothermic storage of warm ischemic kidney slices resulted in a significant decrease in MDA content during the storage period. However, MDA content in these slices increased during warm reperfusion and was significantly higher than that in nonischemic controls. Quinacrine added during hypothermic storage of warm ischemic slices significantly decreased slice MDA content during warm reperfusion, an effect which was lost by increasing the storage solution calcium content. This study shows that aerobic hypothermic storage can aid in reducing oxidative stress in warm ischemic kidney tissue during reperfusion. This study suggests that the effects of quinacrine are at the level of the mitochondrion and not as an antioxidant compound.
Ionic polarizability of interacting charged rods

The counterions condensed on rodlike polyion segments are polarized by the longitudinal component of an external electric field. We show that the polarizability is diminished by electrostatic interactions among the rods. This result may be a useful step toward the understanding of anomalous birefringence of charged rodlike particles such as fd virus in conditions favoring interactions.
Urea and sickle cell anemia.

Abstract A number of metabolites have recently been investigated to determine whether or not they can prevent or reverse the sickling of red blood cells which contain the abnormal hemoglobin, hemoglobin S, of sickle cell anemia (SCA). An hypothesis is suggested in which one of these compounds, urea, may play a significant role in the precipitation of sickling crisis. Coupling the data on kidney pathology, ADH refractoriness in the nephron and the low BUN levels which are found in sicklemics, it is suggested that these low BUN levels significantly contribute to the predisposition of the red cells to sickle. It is further suggested that any condition which produces diuresis may markedly increase the likelihood of sickling crisis in these patients.
Analysis of the biomacromolecular architecture of eukaryotic and prokaryotic serine proteases

We have been developing computational approaches to increase our ability to analyze the growing body of three-dimensional structural data with applications centered on the serine proteases and their natural inhibitors and substrates. It is essential that these approaches emphasize the comparison of these macromolecules at the separate levels of secondary, tertiary and quaternary structure. We assume in our analysis that in functionally related macromolecules (i.e., a family of evolutionarily related enzymes), regions of structural and/or physicochemical similarity will exhibit functional similarity; regions that are different in structure and/or physicochemical properties will function differently and, therefore, be the source of observed specificity. It is the intent of our research to encapsulate such ‘knowledge’ in a form which is capable of observing patterns which may serve as generalizable rules for macrostructural analysis (Liebman, M.N. 1986. Enzyme 36: 150–163), and to serve as the essential ‘tools’ for the rational design of modified serine proteases and/or their natural inhibitors by the methods available through genetic engineering.
The lipid structure of biological membranes

Abstract Recent studies of the structure of lipids in biological membranes have revealed surprising findings about their manner of orientation and modes of interaction, as well as the effects of their structure on anti-lipid antibody specificities. Many intriguing questions are currently being investigated, including whether lateral lipid domains are typical features of biological membranes, and how, when and where the asymmetric composition of membrane lipids arises and is maintained.
Ethene elimination from CH3CH2NH=CH2+: Reaction pathways at the boundary between stepwise and concerted processes

The elimination of ethene from CH3CH2NH=CH 2 + is characterized by ab initio procedures. This reaction occurs through several asynchronous stages, but without passing through formal intermediates. A potential energy barrier to hydrogen migration from the β carbon to N is largely determined by the energy required to cleave the CN bond, but is lowered slightly by H transfer from the β to the α carbon and then to N. The complex [C2H 5 + NH=CH2] is bypassed, even though that complex could exist at energies only slightly above that of the transition state for ethene elimination. Furthermore, conversion of a substantial reverse activation energy into energy of motion causes CH2=NH 2 + and CH2=CH2 to dissociate faster than they can form [CH2=NH 2 + CH2=CH2]. Comparison of results for CH3CH2NH=CH 2 + to ab initio ones for methane from CH3CH2CH 3 + and elimination of ethene from CH3CH2O=CH 2 + and CH3CH2CH=OH+ reveals that these dissociations occur in a similar but, in each case, a distinct series of asynchronous steps or stages, and that there is no sharp demarcation between concerted and stepwise eliminations as presently defined. In dissociations of CH3CH2NH=CH 2 + , loss of electron density at the C in the breaking N bond leads the transfer of electron density to that carbon by migration of a hydrogen from the adjacent C. We attribute this to a requirement for the moving H to be close to Cα before the moving H can start to develop covalent bonding to Cα. It is also concluded that elimination of ethene from CH3CH2NH=CH 2 + avoids a Woodward-Hoffmann symmetry-imposed barrier by H migrating sufficiently from the β to the α carbon on the way to N, so that the dissociation is essentially a 1,1 rather than a 1,2 elimination.
Output Properties of Short-Pulse Gain-Switched Lasers

A formalism is derived for analyzing the spectral and temporal properties of gain-switched lasers. The development of the longitudinal mode structure from spontaneous emission, limiting linewidths, and over-all spectral characteristics are considered in detail; and applications are discussed.
Hydrophobicity gradient on silica surfaces: A study using total internal reflection fluorescence spectroscopy

Abstract A silica surface with hydrophobicity gradient was characterized using total internal reflection fluorescence spectroscopy and ANS, 1-anilinonaphthalene-8-sulfonate, as a surface probe. The probe responded to the hydrophobicity gradient of the surface. Strong enhancement of ANS fluorescence was found at the hydrophobic side of the gradient and no fluorescence enhancement at the hydrophilic side. Similar results were obtained with ANS binding to bovine serum albumin adsorbed on the gradient surface.
Performance of energy-aware and link-adaptive routing metrics for ultra wideband sensor networks

Wireless sensor networks are energy constrained since sensors operate with limited battery capacity. Thus, energy consumption is one of the most critical issues in the design of routing protocols. In addition, the link quality needs to be taken into account in the route decision for a wireless multihop network in order to efficiently exploit the inherent spatial diversity. In this paper we consider energy-aware and link-adaptive routing strategies for UWB (Ultra Wide Band) sensor networks. We utilize the ranging capabilities offered by UWB and employ adaptive modulation to take advantage of favorable link conditions. Different routing metrics are proposed based on the availability of sensor node's location, link quality and next hop battery capacity information. These routing metrics integrate the measure of next hop remaining battery capacity with the throughput performance measures, Maximum Forward Progress (MFP) or Maximum Information Progress (MIP). The effectiveness of these metrics is evaluated in different simulation scenarios in terms of network throughput and lifetime for both random and grid sensor network topologies.
A theorem about automatic programming

An automatic programming system is a system (usually a programmed computer) that generates a program from partial information about that program (Figure 1). Looked at in this general way, automatic programming systems are hardly new. Assemblers are automatic programming systems. So are compilers, debugging systems, and even loaders. In this paper, I propose to focus on systems that "do more" than such systems in the sense that they require less complete information about the programs they are to generate.
Combining dissimilar materials at nanometer scale for energy harvesting

The development of next-generation energy resources that are reliable and economically/environmentally acceptable is a key to harnessing and providing the resources essential for the life of mankind. Our research focuses on the development of novel semiconductor platforms that would significantly benefit energy harvesting, in particular, from light and heat. In these critical applications, traditional semiconductor solid-state devices, such as photovoltaic (PV) and thermoelectric (TE) devices based on a stack of single-crystal semiconductor thin films or single-crystal bulk semiconductor have several drawbacks, for instance; scalability-limits arise when ultra-large-scale implementation is envisioned for PV devices and performance-limits arise for TE devices in which the interplay of both electronic and phonon systems is important. In our research, various types of nanometer-scale semiconductor structures (e.g., nanowires and nanoparticles) coupled to or embedded within a micrometer-scale semiconductor structure (i.e., semiconductor nanomicrometer hybrid platforms) are explored to build a variety of non-conventional PV and TE devices. Two core projects are to develop semiconductor nano-micrometer hybrid platforms based on (1) an ensemble of single-crystal semiconductor nanowires connected to non-single-crystal semiconductor surfaces and (2) semimetallic nanoparticles embedded within a single-crystal semiconductor. The semiconductor nano-micrometer hybrid platforms are studied within the context of their basic electronic, optical, and thermal properties, which will be further assessed and validated by comparison with theoretical approaches to draw comprehensive pictures of physicochemical properties of these semiconductor platforms.
Microwave-Assisted Shape-Controlled Bulk Synthesis of Noble Nanocrystals and Their Catalytic Properties

Bulk and shape-controlled synthesis of gold (Au) nanostructures with various shapes such as prisms, cubes, and hexagons is described that occurs via microwave-assisted spontaneous reduction of noble metal salts using an aqueous solution of α-d-glucose, sucrose, and maltose. The expeditious reaction is completed under microwave irradiation in 30−60 s and can be applied to the generation of nanospheres of silver (Ag), palladium (Pd), and platinum (Pt). The noble nanocrystals undergo catalytic oxidation with monomers such as pyrrole to generate noble nanocomposites, which have potential functions in catalysis, biosensors, energy storage systems, nanodevices, and other ever-expanding technological applications.
Norelac — A proposed new synthetic coating material

A new protective coating material, Norelac, the ethylene diamine polyamide of polymeric fat acids has been described. A preliminary report on its properties indicates that it may prove to be a superior protective coating for wood, metal, and other materials, and an adhesive for heat-sealing and laminating of paper, cellophane, glassine, and other packaging materials. The solubility characteristics of Norelac show that solvation probably occurs in compounds containing electron-acceptor groups, such as alcohols, amines, acids, and chloroform.
Embryonic expression of UCP2 in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

Uncoupling proteins are mitochondrial anions transporters that dissociate respiration from ATP synthesis through proton leaks. Uncoupling protein 2 reportedly plays a role in several physiological processes such as energy partitioning, nutrition, and fatty acid metabolism. The mRNA expression of rainbow trout UCP2 genes (UCP2A and UCP2B) was monitored during embryogenesis and early larval development. Both genes were recruited early and displayed similar steadily decreasing patterns from fertilization until hatching. The expression of UCP2A and UCP2B appeared significantly differentiated after hatching and during the yolk sac absorption, with UCP2A displaying higher expression. We suggest that UCP2 expression profiles in the rainbow trout embryo could be associated with the utilization of lipids as a source of energy during development.
Molecular and Biochemical Analyses of CbCel9A/Cel48A, a Highly Secreted Multi-Modular Cellulase by Caldicellulosiruptor bescii during Growth on Crystalline Cellulose

During growth on crystalline cellulose, the thermophilic bacterium Caldicellulosiruptor bescii secretes several cellulose-degrading enzymes. Among these enzymes is CelA (CbCel9A/Cel48A), which is reported as the most highly secreted cellulolytic enzyme in this bacterium. CbCel9A/Cel48A is a large multi-modular polypeptide, composed of an N-terminal catalytic glycoside hydrolase family 9 (GH9) module and a C-terminal GH48 catalytic module that are separated by a family 3c carbohydrate-binding module (CBM3c) and two identical CBM3bs. The wild-type CbCel9A/Cel48A and its truncational mutants were expressed in Bacillus megaterium and Escherichia coli, respectively. The wild-type polypeptide released twice the amount of glucose equivalents from Avicel than its truncational mutant that lacks the GH48 catalytic module. The truncational mutant harboring the GH9 module and the CBM3c was more thermostable than the wild-type protein, likely due to its compact structure. The main hydrolytic activity was present in the GH9 catalytic module, while the truncational mutant containing the GH48 module and the three CBMs was ineffective in degradation of either crystalline or amorphous cellulose. Interestingly, the GH9 and/or GH48 catalytic modules containing the CBM3bs form low-density particles during hydrolysis of crystalline cellulose. Moreover, TM3 (GH9/CBM3c) and TM2 (GH48 with three CBM3 modules) synergistically hydrolyze crystalline cellulose. Deletion of the CBM3bs or mutations that compromised their binding activity suggested that these CBMs are important during hydrolysis of crystalline cellulose. In agreement with this observation, seven of nine genes in a C. bescii gene cluster predicted to encode cellulose-degrading enzymes harbor CBM3bs. Based on our results, we hypothesize that C. bescii uses the GH48 module and the CBM3bs in CbCel9A/Cel48A to destabilize certain regions of crystalline cellulose for attack by the highly active GH9 module and other endoglucanases produced by this hyperthermophilic bacterium.
A choline transporter in renal brush-border membrane vesicles : energetics and structural specificity

Choline is a quaternary ammonium compound that is normally reabsorbed by the renal proximal tubule, despite its acknowledged role as a substrate for the renal organic cation (OC) secretory pathway. The basis for choline reabsorption was examined in studies of transport in rabbit renal brush-border membrane vesicles (BBMV). Although an outwardly directed H+ gradient (pH 6.0in ∶ 7.5out) stimulated uptake of tetraethylammonium (TEA), a model substrate of the OC/H+ exchanger in renal BBMV, it had no effect on uptake of 1 μm choline. A 5 mmtrans concentration gradient of choline did, however, drive countertransport of both TEA and choline, although trans TEA had no effect on choline accumulation in BBMV. A 20 mm concentration of unlabeled choline blocked uptake of both choline and TEA by >85%, whereas 20 mm TEA blocked only TEA uptake. The kinetics of choline uptake into vesicles preloaded with 1 mm unlabeled choline appeared to involve two, saturable transport processes, one of high affinity for choline (Kt of 97 μm) and a second of low affinity (Ktof ∼10 mm), the latter presumably reflecting a weak interaction of choline with the OC/H+ exchanger. An inside-negative electrical PD stimulated the rate of uptake and supported the transient concentrative accumulation of choline in BBMV. The high affinity transporter showed a marked specificity for choline and closely related analogues. A model of the molecular determinants of substrate-transporter interaction is described. We conclude that the electrogenic high affinity pathway plays a central role in renal reabsorption of choline.
Temperature and excitation dependence of the photo-induced excess conductivity in doping modulated amorphous silicon

Abstract The dependence of the photo-induced excess conductivity in doping modulated amorphous silicon on exposure time, light intensity, and exposure temperature has been investigated. Our results can be explained by a novel defect center associated with boron. The growth of the excess conductivity is thermally activated and displays a power law dependence on light intensity and exposure time, where the exposure time power law exponent increases with light intensity.
Community Colleges as Gender-Equitable Institutions.

This chapter compares the concept of a gender-equitable community college in the 1990s and today.
Underwriter reputation and IPO issuer alignment 1981–2005

Abstract We examine the long-term performance and characteristics of firms that went public from 1981 to 2005. We find that long-run returns declined and the proportion of failed and failing firms increased with underwriter reputation. The IPOs marketed by the more reputable underwriters were more likely to fail or be failing in the post-1980s period, but were still better than those of less reputable counterparts. The characteristics of the firms marketed by the more reputable underwriters did not appear to change substantially from decade to decade. We conclude that external market forces rather than conscious changes by underwriters caused the shift in the relation between failure rates and underwriter reputation from the 1980s to the subsequent period. We also find the “flip” in relationship between underwriter reputation and initial IPO return identified in the literature disappears after controlling for additional factors.
Social class and sex-stereotyping of occupations

Abstract While strong efforts are being made to deemphasize traditional sex role divisions of labor and sex-stereotyping of occupations, many attitudinal barriers remain even after legal and institutional barriers are removed. In this paper, we seek to ascertain the degree to which occupational sex-stereotyping is differentially found at different social class levels. Education is found to be strongly correlated with sex-stereotyping of 15 different occupations. Income level, on the other hand, is significantly related to such stereotyping in only two of the 15 cases. It is concluded that the problem for those with less education is made doubly difficult: lack of training which would prepare one for certain occupations is combined with attitudinal barriers which effectively rule out these occupations as viable choices anyway. Implications for vocational counseling are noted.
Supporting notable information in office work

This paper reports a study examining how current electronic technology (e.g., PDAs, e-mail, laptops, cellphones) and classic paper-based tools (e.g., post-its, notepads, scrap paper) are used to manage to-do lists, appointments, and other types of notable information. Many of the users interviewed report that notes need to be temporary, viewable, mobile, postable, transferable, short, easy to create and destroy. Paper-based tools are clearly preferred over electronic for managing notable information, and are used much more often. PDAs are almost never used for notable information because they lack high-resolution screens, are bulky, and require too much time to enter new information. E-mail is the most used electronic tool and is commonly given dedicated screen space so that it was always visible. Design recommendations for electronic office technology are presented.
ORGANIZING INTELLIGENCE: DEVELOPMENT OF BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE AND THE RESEARCH BASED MODEL OF BUSINESS EDUCATION

Conventional history of the predominant, research-based model of business education (RBM) traces its origins to programs initiated by the Ford Foundation after World War II. This paper maps the elite network responsible for developing behavioral science and the Ford Foundation agenda. Archival records of the actions taken by central nodes in the network permit identification of the original vision statement for the model. Analysis also permits tracking progress toward realizing that vision over several decades. Behavioral science was married to business education from the earliest stages of development. The RBM was a fundamental promise made by advocates for social science funding. Appraisals of the model and recommendations for reform must address its full history, not the partial, distorted view that is the conventional account. Implications of this more complete history for business education and for behavioral theory are considered. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Deconstruction is not vegetarianism: Humanism, subjectivity, and animal ethics

This essay examines Jacques Derrida’s contribution to recent debates in animal philosophy in order to explore the critical promise of his work for contemporary discourses on animal ethics and vegetarianism. The essay is divided into two sections, both of which have as their focus Derrida’s interview with Jean-Luc Nancy entitled “‘Eating Well’, or the Calculation of the Subject.” My task in the initial section is to assess the claim made by Derrida in this interview that Levinas’s work is dogmatically anthropocentric, and to determine whether Levinas’s conception of ethics leaves a place for animals. In the second half of the essay I turn to an analysis of Derrida’s discussion of vegetarianism and its critical relation to the humanism and anthropocentrism that he is calling into question. The main argument that I seek to advance here is that deconstruction should not be strictly identified with vegetarianism (as certain of Derrida’s readers have suggested), but rather that what is needed is a thorough deconstruction of existing discourses on vegetarianism, a project that remains largely to be developed.
Colength sequences for matrices

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B-1 cells: unique origins and functions.

B-1 cells represent a distinct population of B lymphocytes with unique phenotypic, developmental and functional characteristics. We present evidence that the expression of MHC class II antigens differentiates two distinct developmental pathways which define the fetal-type (FT) and adult-type B-cell lineages. Further in-vivo and in-vitro analyses suggest that B-1 cells are derived primarily if not exclusively from the FT lineage. Combining these results with other studies suggesting that signalling plays a role in the development of B-1 cells, we propose a modified dual lineage model for the generation of B-1 cells. In this model fetal-type B cells are uniquely 'born' with the capacity to be B-1 cells, however, they must be properly educated (i.e. receive the appropriate signals) before they can be 'made' functional, phenotypic B-1 cells. With respect to the function of B-1 cells, we have used PerC/BM allotype chimeric animals to investigate the capacity of B-1 cells to participate in the formation of germinal centers. In these mice we were unable to detect any significant involvement of B-1 cells in the generation of germinal centers. These results are discussed in the context of the known characteristics of B-1 responses including the low frequency of hypermutation and isotype class switching.
Rapid drug metabolite profiling using fast liquid chromatography, automated multiple-stage mass spectrometry and receptor-binding

Rapid drug metabolite profiling can be achieved using fast chromatographic separation and fast mass spectrometric scanning without compromising the separation efficiency. Fast chromatographic separations of drug and its metabolites can be achieved by eluting from a short narrow-bore guard cartridge column (20 x 2 mm I.D., 3 microns BDS Hypersil C8) at flow-rate of 1.0 ml/min and with a gradient volume greater than 90 column volumes. The need for chromatographic separation is important for automated data dependent multiple-stage mass spectrometry (MSn) experimentation. The total analysis time of 8 min permits profiling of metabolites in a 96-well plate in 13 h. The narrow chromatographic peaks resulting from the high flow-rate require the use of a mass spectrometer capable of fast scan speed due to the need to perform multiple MS experiments within the same chromatographic analysis. A method has been developed for screening potentially biologically active in vitro microsomal metabolites by affinity binding with a receptor. After separation by centrifugal ultrafiltration, the bound ligands are released and characterized by LC-MS. In vitro microsomal metabolites of tamoxifen, raloxifene and adatanserin were screened for potential biological activity using this method. The in vitro metabolites of tamoxifen captured by the receptor include N-demethyltamoxifen and three species of hydroxytamoxifen; these data are consistent with those from a conventional binding study and bioassay. In addition, both hydroxyraloxifene and dihydroxyraloxifene are also recognized by the receptor. The specificity of the molecular recognition process is illustrated by the absence of binding with control microsomal incubate and with adatanserin and its metabolites. Therefore, active metabolites can be rapidly profiled by fast LC, automated MSn, and receptor binding. This information can be obtained quickly and can add value to the drug discovery process.
SU-GG-T-151: On the Sensitivity of Patient-Specific IMRT QA to MLC Position Errors

Purpose: to assess the ability of patient‐specific IMRT QA procedure using planar dose comparison in detecting MLC positioning errors. Method and Materials: Eight IMRT plans (total of 53 fields) previously used for patient treatment with 6 MV photon beams from Varian Trilogy were randomly selected. Treatment plans were generated with a commercial planning system (Pinnacle3). Random errors (±2 mm) and systematic errors (±1 mm and ±2 mm) of MLC positioning were introduced into each plan. Planar dose distribution, calculated for each field with and without MLC positioning errors, was compared to measured dose distribution using a 2‐dimensional diode array (MapCHECK™). The agreement was analyzed using absolute DTA comparison as well as γ analysis with 2%/2mm and 3%/3mm criteria. The decrease in average passing rates was used to assess the sensitivity of patient‐specific IMRT QA procedure to MLC positioning errors. Results: Decrease in average passing rates with absolute DTA comparison and γ analysis showed similar trends with the introduction of MLC positioning errors. With 3%/3mm, only slight decrease (∼2%) was observed with random errors and ±1 mm systematic errors. Though ∼7% drop was noticed with ±2 mm systematic errors, the average passing rates were all above the error detection threshold (90%). When using 2%/2mm, average passing rates with systematic errors dropped below the threshold, with ∼5% and ∼15% decrease for ±1 mm and ±2 mm errors respectively. The average passing rates with random errors were still above the threshold. Conclusion: Our study indicates that IMRT QA procedure using either DTA criteria or γ index is not sensitive to MLC positioning errors up to 2 mm when using 3%/3mm criteria. When using 2%/2mm, only systematic errors of ±2 mm could be detected. Patient‐specific IMRT QA should be combined with a periodic MLC positioning check in order to guarantee the accuracy of IMRT delivery.
A fault location system for a time of flight detector array

Abstract We describe a fault location system currently under development at Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory for the HISS Time of Flight Wall. The system identifies malfunctioning components by monitoring the detector output channels. For single component failures, a fast simple, lookup procedure reduces the number of suspected components to at most three out of 2500 possible. The system remembers failed components, so that it continues to locate new failures even when several components are in a failed state. The system can also handle partial component failures such as might be caused by the partial failure of a large power supply module. The approach shows promise for more complex detector systems. Plans for a rule-based, “expert system”, analysis to further narrow the list of suspected components are presented.
Adherence to 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans is associated with a reduced progression of coronary artery atherosclerosis in women with established coronary artery disease

Background: A premise of the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) is chronic disease prevention. Objective: The goal was to determine whether a diet meeting the DGA is associated with less atherosclerotic lesion progression. Design: We used the data from 224 postmenopausal women with established coronary artery disease enrolled in the Estrogen Replacement and Atherosclerosis Study. Atherosclerosis progression was defined by repeated measures of quantitative angiography over a 3-y period. Adherence to the key DGA recommendations was measured by using the DGA Adherence Index (DGAI; possible range: 0‐20), with each component weighted equally, and the modified DGAI score (wDGAI; possible range: 20.19‐0.51), with each component weighted based on its relation to atherosclerosis progression. Mixed-model regression analyses were performed to assess the association between diet and atherosclerosis progression. Results: No women consumed a diet meeting all of the DGA recommendations. The mean (range) of the DGAI score was 14.1 (8.0‐ 19.0). DGAI was not associated with atherosclerosis progression (P = 0.44), whereas wDGAI was inversely associated; a 1-SD difference in wDGAI was related to 0.049-mm less narrowing of the coronary arteries (SE = 0.017, P = 0.004). Conclusions: In postmenopausal women with established heart disease, under the assumption that all DGA recommendations are similarly effective, overall adherence was not associated with atherosclerosis progression. However, assigning differential weights to the DGA recommendations, the adherence was significantly associated with slower atherosclerosis progression. Assuming equity of associations between all dietary recommendations and disease outcomes is a limitation in accurately examining the effectiveness of the DGA. Am J Clin Nutr 2009;90:193‐201.
Interval timing disruptions in subjects with cerebellar lesions.

The cerebellum has long been implicated in time perception, particularly in the subsecond range. The current set of studies examines the role of the cerebellum in suprasecond timing, using analysis of behavioral data in subjects with cerebellar lesions. Eleven cerebellar lesion subjects and 17 controls were tested on temporal estimation, reproduction and production, for times ranging from 2 to 12 s. Cerebellar patients overproduced times on both the reproduction and production tasks; the effect was greatest at the shortest duration. A subset of patients also underestimated intervals. Cerebellar patients were significantly more variable on the estimation and reproduction tasks. No significant differences between normal and cerebellar patients were found on temporal discrimination tasks with either sub- or suprasecond times. Patients with damage to the lateral superior hemispheres or the dentate nuclei showed more significant impairments than those with damage elsewhere in the cerebellum, and patients with damage to the left cerebellum had more significant differences from controls than those with damage to the right. These data suggest that damage to the middle-to-superior lobules or the left hemisphere is especially detrimental to timing suprasecond intervals. We suggest that this region be considered part of a network of brain structures including the DLPFC that is crucial for interval timing.
A microwave radio system for pipeline use

In the Texas-Illinois pipeline installation of a microwave relay, the reliability problem was emphasized by the distribution of some 2000 vacuum tubes and associated other components over more than a thousand miles of pipeline right-of-way. The general solution to the reliability problem was threefold, including the design of inherently reliable equipment, provision of full automatic switchover to standby in case of component failure, and special test facilities for rapid isolation of any degraded component.
Allelic and population variation of microsatellite loci in aspen (Populus tremuloides)

Summary • To develop a robust basis for inferences about population genetics and evolution, this work assayed 192 aspens (Populus tremuloides) from 11 sites in Wisconsin, USA, for allelic and population variation at 16 microsatellite loci distributed across the Populus genome. • Frequency distributions of fluorochrome-labeled alleles resolved by capillary electrophoresis were analyzed for relationships to repeat size and number. Population-level statistics were compared with those of other studies, especially in Populus. • All loci were polymorphic, varying widely in the number of alleles per locus (mean = 8.25, range 2–20). Expected and observed heterozygosities were high (0.45 and 0.41, respectively), with little differentiation among populations (FST = 0.006–0.045) and a moderate level of inbreeding (FIS = 0.09), intermediate among levels reported in studies based on isozymes. • Contrary to several other reports, allele frequencies clustered tightly around the modal frequency, and the genetic diversity (measured as alleles per locus or as expected heterozygosity) was not related to either the repeat unit size or to the number of repeats.
Investigating the motion of molecular machines on surfaces by STM: The nanocar and beyond

To build up true molecular machines and understand the mechanics of nanoscale motion and manipulation in molecular system, we have created and investigated a family of molecules based around the concept of the nanocar, which has the rolling wheels made of spherical fullerene or carborane molecules. Assisted by scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), we have successfully characterized and manipulated these molecules. In addition, we have observed the behavior of these systems when thermal energy is applied. These initial studies open a new realm of nano-sized mechanical, chemical, and electrical devices.
All-optical coherent stopping and storage of light

We show that light can be stopped and stored coherently with an all-optical adiabatic bandwidth compression process, without any coherent or resonant light-matter interactions. Such a process overcomes the fundamental bandwidth-delay constraint in optics.
Point modules over Sklyanin algebras

Definition 1.1 [5] Fix a degree n line bundle ~ on E. Set V = H ~ (E, ~ ) . Identify V| with H~174 Define the shifted diagonal A~:={(x,x+ (n-2)r) lx~E}. Denote by M the set of fixed points for the involution (x, y) ~ (y + 2r, x 2r) on E • E. We say that a divisor D on E • E is allowable if D is stable under this involution, and M occurs in D with even multiplicity. The n-dimensional Sklyanin algebra associated to (E, r) is defined to be the quotient of the tensor algebra,
A Quality Improvement Initiative to Achieve High Nursing Presence During Patient- and Family-Centered Rounds

Objectives: The objectives of this study were to: (1) identify local barriers to nursing presence on patient- and family-centered rounds (PFCR); and (2) increase nursing attendance during PFCR. Methods: An electronic survey needs assessment was administered to nursing staff on a single acute medical care unit to identify local barriers to nursing presence on PFCR. Daily tracking of nursing presence on rounds was then performed over a 7-month period. During this time period, 2 Plan-Do-Study Act cycles were conducted. The first intervention was a workshop for nurses about PFCR. The second intervention was the development of a strategy to contact nurses by using a hands-free communication device so that nurses were notified when rounds were starting on their patients. To evaluate the impact of our interventions, a p-chart was generated for the outcome of average daily nursing attendance (%) on PFCR per week over the 7-month period. Results: Two barriers identified on the survey were: (1) nurses were uncertain if physicians valued their input during PFCR; and (2) nurses were unsure when the physician team would be conducting rounds on their patients. On the p-chart, the average percentage of nursing attendance before interventions was 47%. After the nursing workshop, no change in the mean nursing attendance on PFCR was noted. After initiation of the hands-free contact strategy, nursing attendance on PFCR rose to 80%. Conclusions: A nursing contact strategy using a hands-free device led to a sustained increase in nursing attendance during PFCR.
Egg Production, Fertility, and Hatchability of Breeder Hens Receiving Dietary Phytase

SUMMARY Anexperimentwasconductedtodeterminewhethersupplementaldietaryphytasecouldsupport egg production, egg shell quality, fertility, and hatchability in broiler breeder hens on a diet with marginal available phosphorus. During the production period, 27 to 60 wk of age, individually caged broiler breeder hens were fed four diets with two available phosphorus (AP) concentrations (0.1 and 0.3%) and two phytase levels [0 and 300 phytase units (FTU)/kg]. Phytase increased overall hen-day egg production by 9.8%, as compared with hens consuming a low phosphorus diet without added phytase. Addition of phytase significantly reduced hen mortality regardless of AP levels. Phytase improved bone mineral content and bone density of hens at both AP levels. Supplemental phytase had no significant effect on egg weight or egg specific gravity. The results suggest the possibility of a detrimental interaction of phytase with the 0.1 AP level on hatchability.
The Wasabi Personal Shopper: a case-based recommender system

The Wasabi Personal Shopper (WPS) is a domain-independent database browsing tool designed for on-line information access, particularly for electronic product catalogs. Typically, web-based catalogs rely either on text search or query formulation. WPS introduces an alternative form of access via preference-based navigation. WPS is based on a line of academic research called FindMe systems. These systems were built in a variety of different languages and used custom-built ad-hoc databases. WPS is written in C++, and designed to be a commercial-grade software product, compatible with any SQL-accessible catalog. The paper describes the WPS and discusses some of the development issues involved in re-engineering our AI research system as a general-purpose commercial application.