cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Dynamical properties of an alkali chloride mixture in the glassy and liquid states

Molecular dynamics calculations have been carried out to reveal the dynamical properties of an alkali chloride mixture (50 mol% LiCl40KCl10CsCl) and pure LiCl in the liquid and glassy states. It is found that the mobility of Li+ ions in the mixture is significantly lower than that in LiCl, not only in liquid state but also in the glassy state. The partial dynamic structure factors, SLiLi (Q, ω) and SClCl (Q, ω), are evaluated to investigate the dynamical correlation between the Li+ and Cl− ions. In LiCl glass, it is shown that the motions of the Li+ and Cl− ions are highly correlated with each other, and both the acoustic and optic modes are spatially delocalized (Q < 1.8 A−1). On the other hand, in the mixture glass, the motion of the Li+ ions is almost independent of that of the Cl− ions, and at small wavelengths there are the intense vibrations localized on single Li+ ions similar to an Einstein oscillation.
From Walkabout to Meditation: Craft and Ethics in Field Inquiry

Craft and ethics in qualitative field research are vitally related to each other in that the satisfaction of the demands of each is closely dependent on an honest engagement with the local continge...
Quantitative determinations of anti-Kaposi sarcoma–associated herpesvirus antibody levels in men who have sex with men

Infection with Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV; also called human herpesvirus-8) is common among men who have sex with men (MSM). Here, quantitative anti-KSHV antibody levels were measured using luciferase immunoprecipitation systems (LIPS) in an MSM cohort with and without HIV from the NIH Clinical Center. Antibodies were detected using a mixture of 4 KSHV antigens in the MSM cohort and in Kaposi sarcoma (KS) patients. Along with HIV status, these results were compared with K8.1 and ORF73 ELISA, PCR virus detection, and additional LIPS testing. LIPS revealed that 25% (76/307) of the MSM cohort were KSHV seropositive, including 59 HIV+ and 17 HIV- subjects. The anti-KSHV antibody levels detected by LIPS were not statistically different between the KSHV+/HIV+ and KSHV+/HIV- subgroups but were lower than the KS patients (P < 0.0001). ELISA analysis of the MSM cohort detected a 35.5% frequency of KSHV infection and showed agreement with 81% of the samples evaluated by LIPS. Further LIPS testing with v-cyclin, a second ORF73 fragment and ORF38 reconciled some of the differences observed between LIPS and the ELISA immunoassays, and the revised LIPS seroprevalence in the MSM cohort was increased to 31%. Additional quantitative antibody analysis demonstrated statistically lower KSHV antibody levels in MSM compared to KS patients, but no difference was found between KSHV infected with and without HIV coinfection. These findings also suggest that antibodies against v-cyclin and ORF38 are useful for identifying patients with asymptomatic KSHV infection.
Sexual dysfunction with psychotropic drugs.

Sexual dysfunction caused by psychotropic medications has become an increasingly important clinical topic. Only recently have we acknowledged the extent to which many psychotropic medications, especially antidepressants and antipsychotics, cause sexual side effects. Prevalence rates of sexual side effects are extraordinarily difficult to estimate due to a variety of factors, such as the effect of the disorder being treated, comorbid disorders and baseline sexual dysfunction. Among the antidepressants, those with strong serotonergic properties have the highest rate of sexual side effects. Among the antipsychotics, those with greater D2 blockade leading to increased prolactin levels are probably associated with more sexual dysfunction. Treatment approaches have been poorly developed for both antidepressants and antipsychotics. Antidotes for antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction include bupropion, buspirone and sildenafil.
A density functional method for degenerate spin-multiplet components

Abstract The Kohn–Sham spin-density functional method is adapted to the treatment of spin multiplet degeneracy by replacing the variables ρα and ρβ with transforms of the charge density and the density of effectively unpaired electrons. In essence, the modification ensures the degeneracy of Kohn–Sham determinants that differ only by the orientation of spins of unpaired electrons. As demonstrated with the N2 and O2 molecules, the approach solves the size-consistency dilemma for a manifold of molecular states associated with the same separated atom limit.
Protective Role of Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 Receptor in Endothelial Cells against Unilateral Ureteral Obstruction–Induced Renal Fibrosis

Insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) can regulate vascular homeostasis and endothelial function. We studied the role of IGF-1R in oxidative stress–induced endothelial dysfunction. Unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) was performed in wild-type (WT) mice and mice with endothelial cell (EC)–specific IGF-1R knockout (KO). After UUO in endothelial IGF-1R KO mice, endothelial barrier dysfunction was more severe than in WT mice, as seen by increased inflammatory cell infiltration and vascular endothelial (VE)–cadherin phosphorylation. UUO in endothelial IGF-1R KO mice increased interstitial fibroblast accumulation and enhanced extracellular protein deposition as compared with the WT mice. Endothelial barrier function measured by transendothelial migration in response to hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) was impaired in ECs. Silencing IGF-1R enhanced the influence of H 2 O 2 in disrupting the VE–protein tyrosine phosphatase/VE-cadherin interaction. Overexpression of IGF-1R suppressed H 2 O 2 -induced endothelial barrier dysfunction. Furthermore, by using the piggyBac transposon system, we expressed IGF-1R in VE cells in mice. The expression of IGF-1R in ECs also suppressed the inflammatory cell infiltration and renal fibrosis induced by UUO. IGF-1R KO in the VE-cadherin lineage of bone marrow cells had no significant effect on the UUO-induced fibrosis, as compared with control mice. Our results indicate that IGF-1R in the endothelium maintains the endothelial barrier function by stabilization of the VE–protein tyrosine phosphatase/VE-cadherin complex. Decreased expression of IGF-1R impairs endothelial function and increases the fibrosis of kidney disease.
On the Relationship Between the Equilibrium Constants of Consecutive Association Reactions

Anderko A. and Prausnitz J.M., 1994. On the relationship between the equilibrium constants of consecutive association reactions. Fluid Phase Equilibria, 95: 59-71. Generalized association models for fluids require a large number of adjustable parameters (equilibrium constants) unless some effort is made to interrelate the different association constants. An association model has been developed by considering the probability of consecutive association reactions and the effect of that probability on the entropy of association. The relationship between the equilibrium constants of these reactions has been expressed by a function related to the Poisson distribution. When combined with an equation of state, the model accurately represents the properties of hydrogen fluoride and its mixtures with halogenated hydrocarbons. The Poisson distribution model is compared with the classical continuous linear association model. While the Poisson distribution model is superior for molecules that preferentially form associates of moderate size, the continuous linear model is more appropriate for molecules that can form polymers with a high degree of polymerization.
Greece in crisis

In spite of substantial progress over the past 35 years, underfunding and lack of evaluation are preventing Greek research and technology from reaching its true potential. A coordinated effort between government, academia and industry could lead to viable solutions to the current crisis.
Implanting Obstructed and Malformed Cochleae

Implantation of the ossified and dysplastic cochlea presents many unique challenges to both the surgeon and programming team. Altered embryology and physiology of these labyrinthine dysplasias may result in forms and functions unfamiliar to those casually involved with cochlear implants. Remarkable developments in diagnosis, surgical technique, electrode design, processing strategies, and programming have all contributed to the ability to successfully implant patient populations previously excluded from this life-changing intervention.
Transcriptional regulation of the human soluble epoxide hydrolase gene EPHX2

Soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) is a multifunctional protein encoded by the EPHX2 gene. The biological functions and enzyme kinetics of sEH have been extensively investigated, however, little is known about its transcriptional regulation and mechanisms of tissue specific expression. Here, a luciferase gene based reporter assay was used to identify the minimal promoter and cis regulatory elements of EPHX2. The minimal promoter was identified as a GC-rich region between nts -374 and +28 with respect to the putative transcriptional start site. A reporter plasmid carrying this minimal promoter showed higher or similar activities in comparison to a reporter plasmid carrying nts -5,974 to +28 of EPHX2 in 9 human cell lines that were tested. Sp1 binding sites that are involved in augmenting the minimal promoter activity of EPHX2 were identified by nested deletion analysis, site-specific mutation, electrophoretic mobility shift assay, and chromatin immunoprecipitation assay.
Contrast nephrotoxicity: predictive value of urinary enzyme markers in a rat model.

Rationale and Objectives. We tested whether urinary enzymes are an accurate and useful marker of renal damage in a rat model of contrast media nephrotoxicity. Methods. Thirty rats were pretreated with a combination of salt depletion, indomethacin, and contrast material. Alanine aminopeptidase (AAP), γ-glutamyl-transpeptidase (GGT), and N -acetyl-β- d -glucosaminidase (NAG) were measured before and 24 hr after injection of contrast material. Enzyme concentrations were correlated with glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and histology. Results. Decreasing GFR and histopathologic changes were found only in rats treated with all three variables. NAG levels increased from baseline for both diatrizoate meglumine- and ioversol-treated animals (from 83.9±48.6 to 145.5±55.4 and from 69.41±43.6 to 123.1±50.7 respectively; P Conclusions. In this model of contrast nephrotoxicity, NAG concentration appears to correlate with structural and functional changes associated with contrast media nephrotoxicity. However, the large range of baseline values makes this of dubious clinical use. AAP and GGT levels appear less helpful in detecting renal damage.
How to Implement a HIPAA Compliance Plan into a Practice

Under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996, all dental offices are required to formulate policies and procedures to ensure and secure patient privacy of health information. This article reviews the essential points of such a plan and makes recommendations for implementation.
Conditions of Phenol Extraction of RNA from Rat Liver Subcellular Cytoplasmic Fractions I. Effect of a Precipitation of Microsomal RNA on its Purity

Abstract Purification of RNA extracted with phenol from rat liver microsomes by precipitation in sodium benzoate and phenol solutions resulted in the removal of a readily measurable amount of proteins and polysaccharides. The stabilization of RNA was observed by changes in the profiles of the centrifugation gradients. This effect was the same over a wide range of yields in RNA obtained with extraction in the presence of buffers with varying pH levels.
Holes in the walls: Primordial black holes as a solution to the cosmological domain wall problem

We propose a scenario in which the cosmological domain wall and monopole problems are solved without any fine tuning of the initial conditions or parameters in the Lagrangian of an underlying filed theory. In this scenario domain walls sweep out (unwind) the monopoles from the early universe, then the fast primordial black holes perforate the domain walls, change their topology and destroy them. We find further that the (old vacuum) energy density released from the domain walls could alleviate but not solve the cosmological flatness problem.
Serum Total Antioxidant Activity in Relative Hypo- and Hypercholesterolemia

Individuals with low serum cholesterol experience greater than expected age-adjusted mortality from non-atherosclerotic diseases, including cancer, respiratory and digestive illnesses, but the basis for these associations remains unclear. The current investigation considered the hypothesis that hypocholesterolemia is associated with reduced antioxidant reserve. Serum total antioxidant activity as well as concentrations of vitamin E, vitamin C, and thiols were compared in two groups of 24 subjects distinct in both mean low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (2.3 v. 4.9 mM) and mean total cholesterol (4.3 v. 7.0 mM). The low and high cholesterol groups were equivalent in gender mix, age, weight, and serum total protein. Results reveal that compared with the high group, the low cholesterol group had decreased total serum antioxidant activity (p < .05). Thiol concentrations were also lower in the low cholesterol group (p < .05). Group differences in serum total antioxidant activity and thiol concentration were larger among men than women. The two groups did not differ in vitamin C. Low cholesterol was associated with reduced absolute vitamin E levels, although the tocopherol: cholesterol ratio was the same in low and high cholesterol individuals. These data indicate that hypocholesterolemia may be associated with low serum antioxidant reserve, possibly increasing susceptibility to oxidative stress.
Patterns and Risk Factors Associated with Aromatase Inhibitor Related Arthralgia Among Breast Cancer Survivors

BACKGROUND: Arthralgia is common in postmenopausal breast cancer survivors (BCS) who are receiving aromatase inhibitors (AIs). The objective of this study was to evaluate the perceived onset, characteristics, and risk factors for AI-related arthralgia (AIA). METHODS: In a cross-sectional survey of postmenopausal BCS who were receiving adjuvant AI therapy at a university-based oncology clinic, patient-reported attribution of AIs as a cause of joint pain was used as the primary outcome. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate risk factors. RESULTS: Among 300 survey respondents, 139 (47%) attributed AI as a cause of their current arthralgia. Of those patients, 74% recognized the onset of AIA within 3 months of starting medication, and 67% rated joint pain as moderate or severe in the previous 7 days. In multivariate logistic regression analyses, the time since last menstrual period (LMP) was the only significant predictor of AIA. Controlling for covariates, the women who had their LMP within 5 years had the highest probability of reporting AIA (73%), whereas those who had their LMP ≥10 years previously had the lowest probability of reporting AIA (35%; adjusted odds radio, 3.39; 95% confidence interval, 1.21-9.44; P = .02). Wrists/hands, ankles/feet, elbows, and knees appeared to be associated more strongly with AI-related symptoms than non-AI–related joint symptoms (all P < .01). CONCLUSIONS: AIA was common, began within the first 3 months of therapy in most patients, and appeared to be related inversely to the length of time since cessation of menstrual function. These findings suggest that estrogen withdrawal may play a role in the mechanism of this disorder. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Use of three-dimensional computer graphic animation to illustrate cleft lip and palate surgery.

Objective: Three-dimensional (3D) computer animation is not commonly used to illustrate surgical techniques. This article describes the surgery-specific processes that were required to produce animations to teach cleft lip and palate surgery.Materials and Methods: Three-dimensional models were created using CT scans of two Chinese children with unrepaired clefts (one unilateral and one bilateral). We programmed several custom software tools, including an incision tool, a forceps tool, and a fat tool.Results: Three-dimensional animation was found to be particularly useful for illustrating surgical concepts. Positioning the virtual “camera” made it possible to view the anatomy from angles that are impossible to obtain with a real camera. Transparency allows the underlying anatomy to be seen during surgical repair while maintaining a view of the overlaying tissue relationships. Finally, the representation of motion allows modeling of anatomical mechanics that cannot be done with static illustrations. The ani...
How to interpret latencies of cervical and ocular vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials: Our experience in fifty-three participants.

Dear Editor, Vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials are increasingly being used as clinical tests of otolith function. Cervical vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials are short latency electromyograms, elicited by acoustic or vibration stimuli, that measure the sacculo-collic reflex. They are recorded by electrodes placed over the sternocleidomastoid muscle. The presence of a cervical vestibular-evoked myogenic potential is dependent upon the integrity of the inferior vestibular nerve and is abolished after nerve section.1 Tap-evoked ocular vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials are short latency electromyograms that measure the utriculo-ocular reflex. The presence of an ocular vestibular-evoked myogenic potential is dependent upon the integrity of the superior vestibular nerve. Ocular vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials are recorded from the inferior oblique muscle by electrodes placed below the eyes.2 Wave latencies vary depending on the applied stimuli. A few studies have provided normative data for latencies of cervical vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials elicited by tone bursts and clicks.3 However, normative latency ranges for cervical and ocular vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials elicited by different stimuli, including tone bursts, clicks, mini-shaker oscillations and reflex hammer taps, have not been well studied. These ranges would be helpful in the clinical setting to determine whether an observed response represents a vestibular response. For example, a sound-evoked response by the posterior auricular muscle, with a latency of 11.5 ms, looks like a cervical vestibular-evoked myogenic potential but occurs earlier.4 Similarly, later components of the cervical vestibular-evoked myogenic potential tracing are likely cochlear and not vestibular in origin.5 The aims of this study are to describe normative ranges for cervical and ocular vestibular-evoked myogenic potential latencies in response to various stimuli and present technical pearls from our testing experience.
Idiopathic cholesterol pericarditis with effusion

Abstract This report describes the presence of massive pericardial effusion in a 68-year-old man who was markedly disabled and presented manifestations of “restrictive” ventricular failure. Initial pericardiocentesis yielded greenish-gold pericardial fluid which contained excessive amounts of free cholesterol and many “cholesterol” crystals. Removal of the pericardial fluid by two separate aspirations resulted in the disappearance of all the symptoms and signs. No definitive etiological factor was found, and the case was considered to be one of idiopathic cholesterol pericarditis with effusion. In the literature, only 5 cases of similar nature were reported. The salient clinical features of these 5 cases were reviewed and summarized. Complete recovery resulted from multiple pericardiocenteses alone in 3 cases, whereas subsequent pericardiectomy was required in the other 2 cases.
Effects of bisphosphonate treatment on circulating osteogenic endothelial progenitor cells in postmenopausal women.

Abstract Objective To evaluate whether bisphosphonates modulate vascular calcification by a modification in endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) coexpressing osteoblastic surface markers and genes. Patients and Methods We performed a double-blind, randomized study of 20 healthy, early postmenopausal women (from February 1, 2008, through July 31, 2008) treated with placebo or risedronate sodium (35 mg/wk) for 4 months. Peripheral blood was collected at baseline and 4 months to determine serum inflammatory markers, osteoprotegerin, and receptor activator of nuclear factor–κB ligand levels and bone turnover markers. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were stained for EPC surface markers (CD34, CD133, and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor/kinase insert domain receptor) and osteoblast markers (osteocalcin, alkaline phosphatase, and Stro-1). Results Risedronate treatment resulted in a significant down-regulation of gene sets for osteoblast differentiation and proliferation in EPCs with a trend of decreasing EPCs coexpressing osteocalcin. Conclusion Our findings indicate that bisphosphonate treatment down-regulates the expression of osteogenic genes in EPCs and suggest a possible mechanism by which bisphosphonates may inhibit vascular calcification.
Upper mantle discontinuity structure in the region of the Tonga Subduction Zone

We study the mantle structure below the southwest Pacific in order to examine the geometry of the Tonga slab at depth and its interaction with the 410- and 660-km discontinuities (hereafter called the 410 and the 660). We utilize data from stations of both the Lau Basin Ocean Bottom Seismogram experiment and island stations of the Southwest Pacific Seismic Experiment. The tectonic complexity of this region, containing both the Tonga subduction zone and the associated Lau back arc spreading center make it an ideal area to investigate the upper mantle discontinuities using a high resolution technique such as common conversion point stacking of receiver functions. We produce a high-resolution image of the upper mantle near the Tonga subduction zone to show the interaction between the discontinuities and the subducting slab. Our results show the 410 uplifted by 30 km near the Tonga slab and the 660 depressed by 20 to 30 km as expected for thermally controlled olivine phase transitions.
Quantity and Authorship of GIS Articles in Library and Information Science Literature, 1990-2005

ABSTRACT Geographers and Library and Information Scientists have similar perspectives on information access. There is an opportunity for technologies to be shared by the two disciplines, such as a geographic information system or GIS. GIS has the potential of offering technological advances to library and information scientists as well as to their partnering institutions. This investigation examines the publishing trends of articles on GIS indexed in Library Literature & Information Science and Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts databases during a 16-year span from 1990 to 2005 to determine growth in the quantity of articles published on the subject as well as author affiliation. doi:10.1300/J122v27n03_05
Geographical variation in morphological and electrophoretic characters in the holothurian Cucumaria curata

Both morphological and electrophoretic isozyme variation were examined in Cucumaria curata Cowles, 1907, a common intertidal holothurian of the West Coast of North America. This species has also been described under the name C. pseudocurata Deichmann, 1938. Thirteen populations were sampled. Spicule density, and shape, tentacle size and number of papillae at the male gonopore were determined. Five of the populations were examined for variability in 8 isozymes. Spicule densities varied between populations by more than an order of magnitude. The spicule shapes were the same for all populations although the ratios of the different types varied. No relationship was found between geographical location or habitat and any of the morphological characters. No polymorphisms or variation between populations were found in any of the 8 enzymes analyzed by electrophoresis. However, the morphological data indicate random differentiation between populations. The data indicate the existence of only a single species and thus the name C. pseudocurata should be considered a synonym of C. curata.
An adapter ligation-mediated PCR method for high-throughput mapping of T-DNA inserts in the Arabidopsis genome

Agrobacterium transfer DNA (T-DNA) is an effective plant mutagen that has been used to create sequence-indexed T-DNA insertion lines in Arabidopsis thaliana as a tool to study gene function. Creating T-DNA insertion lines requires a dependable method for locating the site of insertion in the genome. In this protocol, we describe an adapter ligation-mediated PCR method that we have used to screen a mutant library and identify over 150,000 T-DNA insertional mutants; the method can also be applied to map individual mutants. The procedure consists of three steps: a restriction enzyme-mediated ligation of an adapter to the genomic DNA; a PCR amplification of the T-DNA/genomic DNA junction with primers specific to the adapter and T-DNA; and sequencing of the T-DNA/genomic junction to enable mapping to the reference genome. In most cases, the sequenced genomic region extends to the T-DNA border, enabling the exact location of the insert to be identified. The entire process takes 2 weeks to complete.
The effects of interacting species on predator-prey coevolution

Abstract Simple optimization models are used to explore the effects that an additional species has on predator-prey coevolution. The additional species is either an alternative prey or a higher-level predator that consumes the first predator species. Results indicate that a variety of effects on predator-prey coevolution are possible. In general, the additional species does not decouple evolutionary changes in the predator and the prey, and often leads to stronger coupling. The manner in which predator and prey adaptations combine to determine the predator's capture rate has a major effect on how an additional species influences the coevolutionary responses of the original pair of species.
Adenoassociated virus vectors for genetic immunization.

Genetic immunization has initiated a new era of vaccine research, which provides a stable and long-lived source of the protein antigen. Such a vaccine is a simple, robust, and effective means of eliciting both antibody-and cell-mediated immune responses compared with protein or peptide vaccines. Although naked DNA vaccines are relatively simple to produce and handle without significant toxicity or host immunity, those using viral vectors have shown greater efficacy in gene transfer and in inducing both protective and therapeutic immunity in preclinical models. However, clinical translation of results obtained in animal studies with viral vectors has not met with anticipated success so far because of inherent limitations of the vector-associated immunity and antigen specificity. Thus, understanding the requirements for the elicitation of target-specific immunity in host requires that a major cellular arm be unraveled, and modifications of the existing viral vectors and testing of newer ones encompass the technological arm of vaccine research. In this article, I give a comprehensive account of the potential of adenoassociated virus, a non pathogenic human parvovirus in vaccine development.
Use of additives to enhance the removal of phenols from water treated with horseradish and hydrogen peroxide.

Use of additives, such as polyethylene glycol (PEG), selected surfactants, chitosan gel, or activated carbon, has been shown to enhance enzymatic treatment of water polluted with organic compounds. In this study, additives were used to facilitate the removal of 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP) from water using minced horseradish (Armoracia rusticana P. Gaertn. et al.) as a carrier of peroxidase activity. The specific objectives of the study were to (i) enhance the pollutant removal activity of minced horseradish by the addition of PEG and other additives (e.g., Tween 20, Triton X-100, and rhamnolipid); (ii) eliminate colored reaction products by the addition of chitosan; and (iii) eliminate color by amending treated water with activated carbon. The disappearance of 2,4-DCP in horseradish-treated water samples amended with PEG or various surfactants (75-90%) was greatly increased over that observed in nonamended samples (29%). The effect of PEG depended on its average molecular weight. As indicated by visible spectrophotometry, enclosing horseradish pieces between two sealed chitosan films completely eliminated colored reaction products; however, the decolorization was accompanied by a reduction in 2,4-DCP removal (from 95 to 60%). On the other hand, commercially available activated carbon completely removed colored reaction products from the treated water without reducing the removal efficiency. Based on the results obtained, it can be concluded that the use of additives may considerably improve the quality of wastewater treated by plant materials.
Evaluating space transportation sensitivities with Taguchi methods

The lunar and Mars transportation system sensitivities and their effect on cost is discussed with reference to several design concepts using Taguchi analysis. The general features of the approach are outlined, and the selected Taguchi matrix (L18) is described. The modeling results are displayed in a Design of Experiments format to aid the evaluation of sensitivities.
Toward direct neural current imaging by resonant mechanisms at ultra-low field.

Abstract A variety of techniques have been developed to noninvasively image human brain function that are central to research and clinical applications endeavoring to understand how the brain works and to detect pathology (e.g. epilepsy, schizophrenia, etc.). Current methods can be broadly divided into those that rely on hemodynamic responses as indicators of neural activity (e.g. fMRI, optical, and PET) and methods that measure neural activity directly (e.g. MEG and EEG). The approaches all suffer from poor temporal resolution, poor spatial localization, or indirectly measuring neural activity. It has been suggested that the proton spin population will be altered by neural activity resulting in a measurable effect on the NMR signal that can be imaged by MRI methods. We present here the physical basis and experimental evidence for the resonant interaction between magnetic fields such as those arising from neural activity, with the spin population in ultra-low field (μT) NMR experiments. We demonstrate through the use of current phantoms that, in the case of correlated zero-mean current distributions such as those one might expect to result from neural activity, resonant interactions will produce larger changes in the observed NMR signal than dephasing. The observed resonant interactions reported here might one day form the foundation of a new functional neuroimaging modality ultimately capable of simultaneous direct neural activity and brain anatomy tomography.
On the node-scheduling approach to topology control in ad hoc networks

In this paper, we analyze the node scheduling approach of topology control in the context of reliable packet delivery. In node scheduling, only a minimum set of nodes needed for routing purposes (usually determined by a minimum connected dominating set, MCDS) are kept active. However, a very low density resulting from switching off nodes can adversely affect the performance of data delivery due to three factors. First, our analysis shows that at low density, the average path length increases by a factor more than previously thought. Second, protocols such as the Hop-By-Hop Broadcast (HHB) reliability scheme (which relies on high network degree for optimum performance) suffer. Third, with limited buffers at nodes, the overhead is more pronounced to the extent of making the network unstable. Using probabilistic models, we derive the relationship between network density and overhead based on the above factors and find the density conditions for minimum power consumption. We also propose a, fully distributed and message-optimal node scheduling algorithm with a constant approximation bound based on the concept of Virtual Connected Dominating Sets. The scheme can asymptotically achieve optimal density conditions while adapting to different network parameters.
Poly(ester-anhydride):poly(β-amino ester) micro- and nanospheres : DNA encapsulation and cellular transfection

Abstract Poly(ester-anhydride) delivery devices allow flexibility regarding carrier dimensions (micro- versus nanospheres), degradation rate (anhydride versus ester hydrolysis), and surface labeling (through the anhydride functional unit), and were therefore tested for DNA encapsulation and transfection of a macrophage P388D1 cell line. Poly( l -lactic acid- co -sebacic anhydride) and poly( l -lactic acid- co -adipic anhydride) were synthesized through melt condensation, mixed with 25 wt.% poly(β-amino ester), and formulated with plasmid DNA (encoding firefly luciferase) into micro- and nanospheres using a double emulsion/solvent evaporation technique. The micro- and nanospheres were then characterized (size, morphology, zeta potential, DNA release) and assayed for DNA encapsulation and cellular transfection over a range of poly(ester-anhydride) copolymer ratios. Poly(ester-anhydride):poly(β-amino ester) composite microspheres (6–12 μm) and nanospheres (449–1031 nm), generated with copolymers containing between 0 and 25% total polyanhydride content, encapsulated plasmid DNA (≥20% encapsulation efficiency). Within this polyanhydride range, poly(adipic anhydride) copolymers provided DNA encapsulation at an increased anhydride content (10%, microspheres; 10–25%, nanospheres) compared to poly(sebacic anhydride) copolymers (1%, microspheres and nanospheres) with cellular transfection correlating with the observed DNA encapsulation.
Semantic and imaginal factors in learning as related to age

Abstract Sixty subjects apiece from third and sixth grade populations were given a twelve-item paired-associate list to learn under either regular or imagery instructions. The paired associates were presented in sentences or phrases which represented varying degrees of semantic correspondence between study and test trials. It was found that the semantic manipulations influenced learning similarly in the two grades, while imagery instructions produced different effects at each grade level.
Circulating reactive plasma cells in the setting of peripheral T-cell lymphoma mimicking plasma cell leukemia.

![Figure][1] A 57-year-old man presented with a history of peripheral T-cell lymphoma that was diagnosed 2 years previously and that recurred 1 year later after 6 cycles of combination therapy with cyclophosphamide, daunorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone. A complete blood count showed an
Chlorine reactions with seawater constituents and the inhibition of photosynthesis of natural marine phytoplankton

The time course of ‘chlorine’ disappearance was followed in filtered (I), non-filtered (II) and u.v.-oxidized (III) seawater. In I and II there was an initial rapid decline in both free and residual ‘chlorine’ followed by a slower decline of these species. No decline was observed in III, suggesting that the removal of organic matter and/or the oxidation of metal ions by u.v. oxidation, removes those molecular species that react with ‘chlorine’. Reaction rate was more rapid in II than in I, suggesting that particulate organic matter may also react with ‘chlorine’. Reaction kinetics of ‘chlorine’ were complex but approximated second order in the ‘slow’ phase. The inhibition of phytoplankton photosynthesis by ‘chlorine’ was studied by adding hypochlorite to seawater samples in the laboratory and in field samples collected adjacent to an open coast marine outfall of an electric generating station. ‘Chlorine’ concentrations required for 50% inhibition varied with exposure time. For 24-hour incubations such inhibition took place with residual ‘chlorine’ concentrations about 10 parts/109. However, there was no recovery of photosynthetic activity when residual chlorine had fallen to undetectable levels. The inhibition appears to be irreversible. As noted earlier by others the principal deleterious impact on marine phytoplankton of the use of seawater for cooling power plants lies in the use of ‘chlorine’ to prevent slime build-up in the condenser systems. Hypochlorite reacts rapidly with the bromide ion in seawater to from hypobromous acid and hypobromite. Perhaps these and ‘residual bromine’ are the physiologically active substances formed on chlorinating seawater (Dove, 1970). If so, then biocidal concentrations of ‘chlorine’ for marine organisms would not necessarily be the same as those reported for freshwater organisms.
Bayesian reconstruction based on flexible prior models

A new approach to Bayesian reconstruction is proposed that endows the prior probability distribution with an inherent geometrical flexibility, which is achieved through a transformation of the coordinate system of the prior distribution or model into that of the reconstruction. With this warping, prior morphological information regarding the object that is being reconstructed may be adapted to various degrees to match the available measurements. The extent of warping is readily controlled through the prior probability distributions that are specified for the warp parameters. The complete reconstruction consists of a warped version of the prior model plus an estimated deviation from the warped model. Examples of tomographic reconstructions demonstrate the power of this approach.
A New Shared-Path Restoration Algorithm with SRLG Constraint in ASON

In order to enhance the survivability of ASON, ASON must provide efficient recovery techniques to guarantee service continuity. This paper proposed a new path restoration algorithm with SRLG constraint to handle single-link failures in GMPLS-Based ASON (RSGA), whose restoration paths are pre-computed and stored in the routing table at each node. This algorithm can efficiently find physically disjoint Label Switched Paths (LSP) with SRLG. The numerical simulations show the RSGA can significantly improve resource utilization, and reduce blocking ratio.
The Children in Action Pilot Study

Interventions that can successfully alter the trajectory toward obesity among high-risk children are critical if we are to effectively address this public health crisis. The goal of this pilot study was to implement and evaluate an innovative physical activity program with Hispanic-American (HA) preschool children attending Head Start. The Children in Action (CIA) program was a five month physical activity intervention. This intervention was a pilot study with 3- to 5- year-olds enrolled in four HA Head Start centers. After baseline assessment, centers were matched by enrollment and randomly assigned to either the intervention or the control condition. A total of 295 preschool children were randomly selected across the four centers. The primary endpoints of this study were favorable changes in physical activity levels and gross motor skills. Using mixed effect time-series regression models, changes in weight was a secondary endpoint. We did not observe a statistical difference between intervention and control groups in physical activity levels during the awake time, gross motor skills, or weight status. Process evaluation data showed that there was adherence to protocols and the intervention was delivered 92% of the time, four times per week, during the five month intervention. We demonstrated that it is feasible to conduct the SPARK-Early Childhood (EC) curriculum among preschool children attending Head Start centers but that an increased dose and/or longer intervention duration will be required to impact gross motor skills, physical activity levels and weight status during this critical early childhood development stage.
Body Size and Renal Cell Cancer Incidence in a Large US Cohort Study

Renal cell cancer (RCC) incidence has increased in the United States over the past three decades. The authors analyzed the association between body mass index (BMI) and invasive RCC in the National Institutes of Health (NIH)-AARP Diet and Health Study, a large, prospective cohort aged 50-71 years at baseline initiated in 1995-1996, with follow-up through December 2003. Detailed analyses were conducted in a subcohort responding to a second questionnaire, including BMI at younger ages (18, 35, and 50 years); weight change across three consecutive age intervals; waist, hip, and waist-to-hip ratio; and height at age 18 years. Incident RCC was diagnosed in 1,022 men and 344 women. RCC was positively and strongly related to BMI at study baseline. Among subjects analyzed in the subcohort, RCC associations were strongest for baseline BMI and BMI recalled at age 50 years and were successively attenuated for BMI recalled at ages 35 and 18 years. Weight gain in early (18-35 years of age) and mid- (35-50 years of age) adulthood was strongly associated with RCC, whereas weight gain after midlife (age 50 years to baseline) was unrelated. Waist-to hip ratio was positively associated with RCC in women and with height at age 18 years in both men and women.
Structural changes in the murine yolk sac during gestation: cytochemical and electron microscope observations.

Specimens of murine yolk sac prepared for light and electron microscopy at 8, 12, and 18 days of gestational age revealed a changing morphology of the endodermal cells in the visceral layer as gestation progressed. Basophilia increased between 8 and 12 days and decreased slightly between 12 and 18 days. These changes corresponded to the development of a highly organized rough-surfaced endoplasmic reticulum by 12 days and its partial replacement by smooth-surfaced elements by 18 days. Staining of frozen sections with tetrazolium dyes revealed a substrate dependent localization of the staining reaction within the cells and suggested an underlying compartmentalization of metabolic activities. Two types of apical granules were observed on the basis of both cytochemistry and electron microscopy. These granules were most numerous at 12 days of gestational age. The observations suggest that although synthesis and absorption doubtless occur simultaneously throughout gestation, the emphasis is on synthesis during the first half of the period and absorption during the second half. It is suggested that the change in fine structure may be due to the rupture of Reichert's membrane and the subsequent establishment of direct contact between the endodermal cells and the uterine wall.
Measured efficiency improvements of induction motors with thyristor/triac controllers

The deployment of inexpensive thyristor/triac controllers improve the efficiency and do not increase the power factor of induction motors (as measured at the input of pole transformer) operating under variable torque and constant speed constraints. Computer-aided testing yields detailed input/output powers for the drive. The improvement of the power factor does not increase the real-power capability (RPC) of a transformer supplying power to such drives due to current harmonics. Although the total harmonic current distortion (THDi) may exceed IEEE 519 and IEC 555 recommendations, recent publications show that the impact on the apparent power derating of a 25 kVA pole transformer is small if the THDi is less than 50%.
Estimates of North Atlantic ventilation and mode water formation for winters 2002–06

Lagrangian estimates for ventilation rates in the Gulf Stream Extension using Argo and World Ocean Circulation Experiment/Atlantic Climate and Circulation Experiment (WOCE/ACCE) float data, scatterometer (QuikSCAT) wind stress satellite observations, and altimetric [Archiving, Validation, and Interpretation of Satellite Oceanographic data (AVISO)] sea surface height (SSH) satellite observations from 2002to2006 arepresented.Satellitewindsandestimatesof surfacegeostrophic currentsallowtheinclusionof the effects of currents on wind stress as well as their impact on the Ekman pumping. The presence of large surface geostrophic currents decreases the total Ekman pumping, contributing up to 20% where the Gulf Stream makes its two sharpest turns, and increases the total Ekman pumping by 10% or less everywhere else. The ageostrophic currents may be as large as 15% of the geostrophic currents, but only in proximity of the Gulf Stream. Using currents and mixed layer depths (MLDs) that are either climatological or vary from year to year, obductedwatertendstooriginatealongtheGulfStream,whilesubductedwatertendstooriginatetoitssouth. However, using time-varying MLDs for each year, subduction varies significantly, sometimes oppositely from obduction. The 188 Water (EDW) subducts in different locations and is distributed differently each year but tends to be located in the Sargasso Sea. Vertical pumping is the only dominant factor in ventilation closer to the coast where MLDs are shallower and lighter parcels are subducted. Vertical pumping contributes up to 20%oftheseveralhundredsofventilatedmetersperyeararoundtheGulfStreamandless elsewhere.Usinga temperature- or density-based criterion for estimating the MLDs, especially along the coasts and north of 458N, obduction estimates differ by up to 25%. The horizontal and temporal structure of the MLDs is the primary factor that controls the tens of sverdrups of ventilation (and a few sverdrups of EDW subduction).
Seeking justice for Priscilla.

I am currently caring for a child named Priscilla who is ventilator-dependent and whose care confronted me with questions of justice. Priscilla was born at the County Hospital after a normal pregnancy to a 17-year-old single mother. At birth, she was noted to have some dysmorphic features: widely spaced eyes, low-set ears, and a cleft palate. Her chest X-ray showed hypoplastic ribs and scapulae. Her chromosome studies were normal. Eventually, a diagnosis of a rare dwarfing syndrome campomelic dysplasia – was made.
Comparison of semantic and episodic memory BOLD fMRI activation in predicting cognitive decline in older adults.

Previous studies suggest that task-activated functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) can predict future cognitive decline among healthy older adults. The present fMRI study examined the relative sensitivity of semantic memory (SM) versus episodic memory (EM) activation tasks for predicting cognitive decline. Seventy-eight cognitively intact elders underwent neuropsychological testing at entry and after an 18-month interval, with participants classified as cognitively "Stable" or "Declining" based on ≥ 1.0 SD decline in performance. Baseline fMRI scanning involved SM (famous name discrimination) and EM (name recognition) tasks. SM and EM fMRI activation, along with Apolipoprotein E (APOE) e4 status, served as predictors of cognitive outcome using a logistic regression analysis. Twenty-seven (34.6%) participants were classified as Declining and 51 (65.4%) as Stable. APOE e4 status alone significantly predicted cognitive decline (R(2) = .106; C index = .642). Addition of SM activation significantly improved prediction accuracy (R(2) = .285; C index = .787), whereas the addition of EM did not (R(2) = .212; C index = .711). In combination with APOE status, SM task activation predicts future cognitive decline better than EM activation. These results have implications for use of fMRI in prevention clinical trials involving the identification of persons at-risk for age-associated memory loss and Alzheimer's disease.