cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Young infants' event-related potentials (ERPs) to familiar and unfamiliar visual and auditory events in a recognition memory task

Abstract Three studies were conducted to test whether 3-month-old infants demonstrate differential brain activity to familiar and unfamiliar characteristics in compound visual-auditory stimuli. Infrequent changes in the stimuli occurred in: (1) visual characteristics alone (VC study); (2) auditory characteristics alone (AC study); or (3) both visual and auditory characteristics (VAC study). Single trial and average event-related potentials (ERPs) were computed at Oz, Pz, and Cz. In the VC and VAC studies a strong LPC effect was found mainly at Oz and Pz for the average ERPs to the unfamiliar stimuli during the interval 150–600 msec after stimulus onset. In the AC study no evidence for an LPC effects was found in the average ERPs at any location. Linear discriminant functions were used to assess LPC effects for single trial ERPs. A local probability index (LPI) was calculated to examine the effects of prior presentations of familiar events on the infants' responses to specific occurrences of unfamiliar events. In the VC study the LPC was present more often at Pz for infrequently occurring trials preceded by a sequence of three or more familiar stimuli than by only one or two. The same effect was present at Cz in the AC study. Concordance among the discriminants' assessment at each scalp site for individual trials was calculated. The discriminant concordances among the combinations of scalp sites were different for each study resulting in a unique spatial representation of the infants' brain responses in different experimental conditions. These studies provide a paradigm to assess LPC effects during recognition memory tasks using both averaged and single trial evoked potential data in young infants.
A Simplified Approach to Solar Cell Modeling

Procedures for analyzing hydrogenated amorphous silicon p-i-n solar cells are presented. Two closed form expressions, each containing a single unknown i layer transport parameter, are adequate to describe the light-intensity and temperature dependence of the current-voltage curve and photocapacitance for the majority of situations. Excellent agreement between theory and experiment is obtained.
Supervised machine learning of fused RADAR and optical data for land cover classification

Supervised machine learning algorithms are used to classify pixels of a multi-sensor remote sensing dataset comprising RADAR and optical measurements for central Sudan. A total of 19 layers were used, 16 RADAR bands from RADARSAT DN, and texture bands acquired on 13 December 2008 (dry season) and on 2 June 2009 (wet season), and three optical bands acquired by Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) on 25 February 2009. Three different machine learning supervised classification algorithms were used to test the advantage of combining RADAR and optical data: a decision rule, a decision tree, and a naive Bayesian. In all the experiments performed, a combination of RADAR and optical bands leads to higher predictive accuracy and better land cover classification than either sensor used independently. The decision rule classifier performed best among the three methods used.
Family Differences in Fertility of Turkey Hens

Abstract The view that fertility is not an inherited characteristic in fowls has prevailed until recently. Investigations by Gowe and Hutt (1949) and Hays (1949) with chickens provide evidence of a genetic relationship. Results from an experiment at this station with turkeys provide additional information relative to inherited differences between families with respect to fertility and duration of fertility. A pen of 50 Broad Breasted Bronze females representing ten families obtained from single tom matings of the previous spring were used for the experiment. The hens were maintained in an outside yard with access to a range shelter. Artificial lights were used beginning January 15, 1949. An adequate breeder mash was fed free choice along with a grain mixture limited to one-fourth pound per bird each day. Individual trapnest and incubation records were maintained. Eggs were set at two-week intervals in a forced-draft electric incubator. Fertility was based on broken-out appearance . . .
In Vitro Validation of Finite Element Analysis of Blood Flow in Deformable Models

The purpose of this article is to validate numerical simulations of flow and pressure incorporating deformable walls using in vitro flow phantoms under physiological flow and pressure conditions. We constructed two deformable flow phantoms mimicking a normal and a restricted thoracic aorta, and used a Windkessel model at the outlet boundary. We acquired flow and pressure data in the phantom while it operated under physiological conditions. Next, insilico numerical simulations were performed, and velocities, flows, and pressures in the in silico simulations were compared to those measured in the in vitro phantoms. The experimental measurements and simulated results of pressure and flow waveform shapes and magnitudes compared favorably at all of the different measurement locations in the two deformable phantoms. The average difference between measured and simulated flow and pressure was approximately 3.5 cc/s (13% of mean) and 1.5 mmHg (1.8% of mean), respectively. Velocity patterns also showed good qualitative agreement between experiment and simulation especially in regions with less complex flow patterns. We demonstrated the capabilities of numerical simulations incorporating deformable walls to capture both the vessel wall motion and wave propagation by accurately predicting the changes in the flow and pressure waveforms at various locations down the length of the deformable flow phantoms.
The MRIs of Sollers's Fictions

Abstract Since 1983, beginning with Femmes, Philippe Sollers has published nine novels of which the last, Passion fixe, appeared in March 2000 (I am not including the experimental novel Paradis in this group). Emerging from common characteristics in all these novels is a narrator persona with a consistent identity, an omnipresent first-person speaker, the focal point from which everything is seen and to which everything returns. All action centers on this narrator and main character; he is the perspective, the filter, the recorder of all events. Most often he is a writer of keen intelligence and a marginalized social critic–very much like the view Sollers has of himself as a writer.
Determination of displacements using an improved digital correlation method

Abstract An improved digital correlation method is presented for obtaining the full-field in-plane deformations of an object. The deformations are determined by numerically correlating a selected subset from the digitized intensity pattern of the undeformed object. The improved numerical correlation scheme is discussed in detail. The displacements of a simple object, as computed by the correlation routine, are shown to agree with theoretical calculations.
Inherited movement disorders

The inherited movement disorders comprise a rapidly growing category of human disease. Advances in genetics have led to the identification of the gene mutation in Huntington's disease and three different gene mutations, which may lead to Parkinson's disease. In addition, gene mutations have been identified in less common movement disorders including Wilson's disease, Hallervorden-Spatz syndrome, paroxysmal kinesogenic choreoathetosis, neuroacanthocytosis, and some forms of dystonia. This article summarizes what is known about the genetic mutations that cause these movement disorders, as well as the clinical features of each disease and the symptomatic treatments currently available.
Fast growth in rainbow trout is correlated with a rapid decrease in post-stress cortisol concentrations

Abstract Growth rates of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) were assessed with respect to serum concentrations of cortisol, glucose, and chloride following exposure to a standardized handling stressor. Individually tagged rainbow trout (N=400, 90–250 g) were reared for 10 months and the handling stressor was administered three times at approximately 3-month intervals. Fish were bled at either 1-, 3-, or 6-h post-stress for measurement of serum cortisol, glucose, and chloride, with individuals always being bled at the same time post-stress. For cortisol, 42% of the fish had a consistent response, defined as being ranked in the upper or lower 50th percentile for all three samples collected, whereas for glucose and chloride, 35% and 37% had consistent responses. Among all the fish, growth was best correlated (P
Compiler to author: A process for designing rhetorically aware document collections

Although neutrality has been extensively questioned as a design principle for document collections and their descriptive infrastructures, little research has investigated how this conceptual shift might affect the collection designer's task. This article describes the development and evaluation of a design process to author document collections with an acknowledged rhetorical purpose: collections with a design goal to persuasively communicate a position on their material to an identified audience. Following principles of design research, the process was developed via the creation of two prototype collections. The process was then implemented in a classroom setting. Over the course of a semester, 16 participants used the design process both as individuals and in teams to create rhetorically aware document collections. Although study participants successfully used the process to create collections that persuasively expressed a position on their subject matter, reflections on their design experiences showed that the student designers felt some ambivalence regarding the assumption of authorial power. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Association of egg consumption and calcified atherosclerotic plaque in the coronary arteries: The NHLBI Family Heart Study

Summary Background and aims Eggs are a ubiquitous and important source of dietary cholesterol and nutrients, yet their relationship to coronary heart disease (CHD) remains unclear. While some data have suggested a positive association between egg consumption and CHD, especially among diabetic subjects, limited data exist on the influence of egg consumption on subclinical disease. Thus, we sought to examine whether egg consumption is associated with calcified atherosclerotic plaques in the coronary arteries. Methods In a cross-sectional design, we studied 1848 participants of the NHLBI Family Heart Study without known CHD. Egg consumption was assessed by a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire and coronary-artery calcium (CAC) was measured by cardiac CT. We defined prevalent CAC using an Agatston score of at least 100 and fitted generalized estimating equations to calculate prevalence odds ratios of CAC. Results Mean age was 56.5 years and 41% were male. Median consumption of eggs was 1/week. There was no association between frequency of egg consumption and prevalent CAC. Odds ratios (95% CI) for CAC were 1.0 (reference), 0.95 (0.66–1.38), 0.94 (0.63–1.40), and 0.90 (0.57–1.42) for egg consumption of almost never, 1–3 times per month, once per week, and 2+ times per week, respectively ( p for trend 0.66), adjusting for age, sex, BMI, smoking, alcohol, physical activity, income, field center, total calories, and bacon. Additional control for hypertension and diabetes mellitus, or restricting the analysis to subjects with diabetes mellitus or fasting glucose >126 mg/dL did not alter the findings. Conclusions These data do not provide evidence for an association between egg consumption and prevalent CAC in adult men and women.
Battery storage in residential applications of energy from photovoltaic sources

Electric energy storage in batteries is discussed for future applications in homeowner-controlled grid-tied photovoltaic power generation systems for residences. Energy storage would enable more effective matching of the intermittent solar-generated energy to high-use periods, as well as storage of energy for sale to the utilities, taking advantage of future variable (time-of-day) utility rate and buy-back structures. State-of-the-art lead-acid batteries are economically viable for utility rate scenarios that are expected to be in effect in many areas of the United States in the mid-1980s.1 ‘Advanced batteries’ (e.g. sodium-sulfur, zinc-bromine, lithium-metal sulfide) with decreased capital investment costs, minimal maintenance and improved performance characteristics could have enhanced consumer acceptance in the late 1980s.
Modulation of Thermoelectric Power of Individual Carbon Nanotubes

Thermoelectric power (TEP) of individual single walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) has been measured at mesoscopic scales using a microfabricated heater and thermometers. Gate electric field dependent TEP modulation has been observed. The measured TEP of SWNTs is well correlated to the electrical conductance across the SWNT according to the Mott formula. Strong modulations of TEP were observed in the single-electron conduction limit. In addition, semiconducting SWNTs exhibit large values of TEP due to the Schottky barriers at SWNT-metal junctions.
Echocardiographic Findings in a Patient with Candida Endocarditis of the Aortic Valve

The echocardiographic appearance of fungal endocarditis of the aortic valve is described in a patient who subsequently died from this disease. In addition, the progressive growth of the vegetation on serial echocardiograms was recorded, and premature closure of the mitral valve was absent, notwithstanding perforation of two aortic cusps.
EARLY INCREASE IN ENDOTHELIN-1 (ET-1) IN TRACHEAL ASPIRATES (TA) OF PRETERM INFANTS: CORRELATION WITH BRONCHOPULMONARY DYSPLASIA (BPD).† 1385

ET-1 is a potent vasoactive peptide, whose presence in the lungs may increase the production of oxygen radicals by alveolar macrophages, thus implicating ET-1 for a role in the pathogenesis of BPD. We hypothesized that TA ET-1 would be an early marker for pulmonary injury in infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) and subsequent BPD (O2 requirement at 36 weeks post-conceptual age). We studied 19 preterm infants who had self-limiting RDS (n=10) and RDS that progressed to BPD (n=9). Demographic data (mean ± S.D.): Table TAs were collected from intubated infants at days 1, 3, & 5; cell-free supernatants were stored at -70° awaiting batch analysis. ET-1 levels were measured by ELISA(Peninsula Lab, Belmont, CA) and then corrected for dilution by quantitative analysis of TA urea. TA ET-1 levels (mean ±SE; ng/ml) are as follows:Table While there is no significant difference between the two groups on each day of analysis, there is a significant difference in the ET-1 levels in the TA of preterm infants who develop BPD. We speculate that the sustained elevation of ET-1 levels seen in those with acute lung injuries may reflect a role for ET-1 in the pathogenesis of BPD.
Gamow Vectors and Borel Summability in a Class of Quantum Systems

We analyze the detailed time dependence of the wave function ψ(x,t) for one dimensional Hamiltonians \(H=-\partial_{x}^{2}+V(x)\) where V (for example modeling barriers or wells) and ψ(x,0) are compactly supported.
Determination of the resistance to sensible heat flux density from turfgrass for estimation of its evapotranspiration rate

Abstract A method of determining the resistance to sensible heat flux density (rh) was tested on a turfgrass canopy in an environmental simulation chamber. The resistance was obtained by determining the rate of change (decay) of temperatures of an abruptly shaded canopy, and is equal to the volumetric heat capacity of air divided by the product of the rate of canopy temperature decay, the mass of leaf tissue per unit area of land surface, and the specific heat capacity of the leaves. Uncertainty analysis showed the mass of leaves per unit area of land surface to be the largest source of error in the determinanation of rh. Values for rh essentially equalled the values for resistance to latent heat flux density determined by three other methods. The application of this method of determining rh to making rapid estimates of evapotranspiration rates was tested in the growth chamber. The estimated values agreed with the measured ones.
Lyapunov Diagonal Semistability of Real H-Matrices

We characterize Lyapunov diagonally stable real H-matrices and those real H-matrices which are Lyapunov diagonally semistable but not Lyapunov diagonally stable (called Lyapunov diagonally near-stable). The latter characterization is given in terms of the principal submatrix rank property defined here. We apply our results to the numerical abscissas of real matrices. One of our main tools is a slight strengthening of classical results of Ostrowski which we derive from a fundamental theorem of Wielandt.
Lipofuscin, the Age Pigment

Lipofuscin is the fluorescent mixture of compounds that accumulates increasingly with age in human tissues, including the pigment epithelium of the retina. A substantial component of lipofuscin has been identified in the retina as N-retinylidene-N-retinylethanolamine. This compound presumably is derived from the reaction of retinaldehyde with the membrane lipid phosphatidylethanolamine.
Amiodarone-Induced Thyrotoxic Thyroiditis: A Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenge

Amiodarone is an iodine-based, potent antiarrhythmic drug bearing a structural resemblance to thyroxine (T4). It is known to produce thyroid abnormalities ranging from abnormal thyroid function testing to overt hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. These adverse effects may occur in patients with or without preexisting thyroid disease. Amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis (AIT) is a clinically recognized condition commonly due to iodine-induced excessive synthesis of thyroid, also known as type 1 AIT. In rare instances, AIT is caused by amiodarone-induced inflammation of thyroid tissue, resulting in release of preformed thyroid hormones and a hyperthyroid state, known as type 2 AIT. Distinguishing between the two states is important, as both conditions have different treatment implications; however, a mixed presentation is not uncommon, posing diagnostic and treatment challenges. We describe a case of a patient with amiodarone-induced type 2 hyperthyroidism and review the current literature on the best practices for diagnostic and treatment approaches.
Phosphorylation regulates Myc expression via prolonged activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway

We previously showed that prolonged and strong ERK phosphorylation induced by Compound 5 (Cpd 5), a Cdc25A protein phosphatase inhibitor, was involved in its mechanism of cell growth inhibition. To study the relationship between ERK phosphorylation and cell growth inhibition, we used Cpd 5 as a tool to investigate ERK-regulated c-Myc expression in Hep3B hepatoma cells. We found that ERK phosphorylation caused by Cpd 5 induced c-Myc phosphorylation, but suppressed c-Myc expression at the mRNA and protein levels. Furthermore, Cpd 5 inhibited c-Myc transcriptional activity and DNA binding ability, and this inhibition was antagonized by ERK kinase (MEK) inhibitor U-0126, implying that the ERK pathway was involved in regulating c-Myc expression. Since the participation of c-Myc protein in transcription requires its dimerization with Max protein, we examined the Myc-Max association in Cpd 5-treated cells and found that Cpd 5 suppressed Myc-Max dimerization. Transfection of Hep3B cells with mutated ERK (T188A/Y190F), which has lost its dual-phosphorylation sites, attenuated the actions of Cpd 5 on Myc-Max association. To further demonstrate whether Myc phosphorylation by Cpd 5-induced ERK activation was able to directly regulate c-myc gene expression, a chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay was used to examine the binding of phospho-Myc to the c-myc promoter region. We found that phospho-Myc induced by Cpd 5 had lost its ability to bind to the c-myc promoter, whereas MEK inhibitor U-0126 antagonized this inhibitory effect. These data suggest that an increase in c-Myc phosphorylation in response to prolonged ERK phosphorylation negatively auto-regulates c-Myc gene expression, leading to the suppression of its target gene expression and cell cycle block.
High turnover in a photocatalytic system for water reduction to produce hydrogen using a Ru, Rh, Ru photoinitiated electron collector.

Covalent coupling of Ru(II) light absorbers to a Rh(III) electron collecting site through polyazine bridging ligands affords photocatalytic production of H(2) in the presence of visible light and a sacrificial electron donor. A robust photocatalytic system displaying a high turnover of the photocatalyst has been developed using the photoinitiated electron collector [{(bpy)(2)Ru(dpp)}(2)RhBr(2)](5+) (bpy=2,2'-bipyridine; dpp=2,3-bis(2-pyridyl)pyrazine) and N,N-dimethylaniline in DMF/H(2)O. Studies have shown that increased [DMA], the headspace volume, and the use of DMF solvent improves the systems performance and stability providing mechanistic insight into the deactivation routes of the photocatalytic system. Photolysis of the system at 460 nm generates 20 mL of H(2) in 19.5 h with a maximum Φ=0.023 based on H(2) produced and an overall Φ=0.014 and 280 turnovers of the photocatalyst. The photocatalytic system also displays long-term photostability with 30 mL of H(2) generated and 420 turnovers in 50 h under the same conditions. Prolonged photolysis provides 820 mol H(2) per mole of catalyst.
Surveying the Literature on Acculturation and Alcohol Use among Hispanic College Students: We're Not All on the Same Page

During the past several years, a steadily growing body of literature examining acculturation and alcohol use among Hispanic college students has emerged. A review of this literature suggests that there have been (and continues to be) mixed findings regarding the association between acculturation and alcohol use in this population. Thus, the exact nature of this association is not clear. This paper provides an overview of this literature and outlines recommendations for future research that will help to elucidate the complexities inherent in this line of work.
Profile guided code positioning

This paper presents the results of our investigation of code positioning techniques using execution profile data as input into the compilation process. The primary objective of the positioning is to reduce the overhead of the instruction memory hierarchy.After initial investigation in the literature, we decided to implement two prototypes for the Hewlett-Packard Precision Architecture (PA-RISC). The first, built on top of the linker, positions code based on whole procedures. This prototype has the ability to move procedures into an order that is determined by a “closest is best” strategy.The second prototype, built on top of an existing optimizer package, positions code based on basic blocks within procedures. Groups of basic blocks that would be better as straight-line sequences are identified as chains. These chains are then ordered according to branch heuristics. Code that is never executed during the data collection runs can be physically separated from the primary code of a procedure by a technique we devised called procedure splitting.The algorithms we implemented are described through examples in this paper. The performance improvements from our work are also summarized in various tables and charts.
Submitochondrial localization of the mitochondrial isoform of folylpolyglutamate synthetase in CCRF-CEM human T-lymphoblastic leukemia cells.

Abstract Earlier studies from this laboratory showed that human folylpolyglutamate synthetase (FPGS) exists as cytosolic and mitochondrial (mFPGS) isoforms. Localization of mFPGS within mitochondria may help elucidate how the enzyme functions to maintain the mitochondrial folate pool. A human T-lymphoblastic leukemia CCRF-CEM cell lysate was fractionated by differential centrifugation into cytosolic and mitochondrial fractions. Activity assays for cytosol-and mitochondria-specific enzymes verified the purity and integrity of the fractions. Mitochondria were subfractionated with increasing concentrations of digitonin to successively extract the four submitochondrial compartments. Western analyses of the fractions using protein markers specific for each compartment suggest that mFPGS is distributed in the matrix and/or inner membrane compartments. Further support for an interaction of mFPGS with the inner mitochondrial membrane is provided by localization of about half of the mFPGS in the mitochondrial membrane fraction obtained by freeze–thaw of intact mitochondria; the remaining mFPGS is located in the soluble fraction. Resistance of about half of the mFPGS in whole mitochondria to alkaline carbonate extraction suggests that its interaction with the inner membrane is more similar to an integral, than a peripheral, membrane protein. The data suggest that human mFPGS is at least in part strongly associated with the inner mitochondrial membrane.
Four Central Points About Coevolution

Much of evolution is about the coevolution of species with each other. In recent years, we have learned that coevolution is much more pervasive, dynamic, and relentless than we previously thought. There are four central points about coevolution that we should teach the next generation of students to help them understand the importance of the coevolutionary process in shaping the web of life. (1) Complex organisms require coevolved interactions to survive and reproduce. (2) Species-rich ecosystems are built on a base of coevolved interactions. (3) Coevolution takes multiple forms and generates a diversity of ecological outcomes. (4) Interactions coevolve as constantly changing geographic mosaics.
Valuing lobster for Maine coastal tourism: methodological considerations

A major issue for travel and tourism practitioners, researchers and governmental leaders are determining the value of the experiences deliverable via destination assets. We hypothesize that Maine's ‘lobster culture’ (lobster cuisine, lobster fishing, lobster fishing villages) is an important part of the coastal Maine tourist experience and that Maine's coastal tourism industry relies on the presence of an active lobster fishery for its economic success. This paper proposes a method for valuing the lobster fishery asset in Maine for its coastal tourism trade by valuing the experiences that are derivable from it, namely lobster cuisine and the lobster industry and village culture. This specific project is part of a larger program to measure the economic value of the lobster fishing industry to the economy of Maine. This paper considers and outlines a specific rationale and choice of methods for assessing the value of that industry for Maine's tourism economy.
The speeds of coronal mass ejections in the solar wind at mid heliographic latitudes: Ulysses

Six CMEs (coronal mass ejections) have been detected in the Ulysses plasma observations poleward of S31 deg. The most striking aspect of these mid-latitude CMEs was their high speeds; the overall average speed of these CMEs was approximately 740 km/s, which was comparable to that of the rest of the solar wind at these latitudes. This average CME speed is much higher than average CME speeds observed in the solar wind in the ecliptic or in the corona close to the Sun. The evidence indicates that the CMEs were not pushed up to high speeds in interplanetary space by interaction with trailing high-speed plasma. Rather, they simply seem to have received the same basic acceleration as the rest of the solar wind at these mid-latitudes. Our results suggest that the basic acceleration process for many CMEs at all latitudes is essentially the same as for the normal solar wind. Frequently most of this acceleration must occur well beyond 6 solar radii from Sun center.
Student Initiatives in Urban Elementary Science Classrooms.

Student initiatives play an important role in inquiry-based science with all students, including English language learning (ELL) students. This study examined initiatives that elementary students made as they participated in an intervention to promote science learning and English language development over a three-year period. In addition, the study examined whether student initiatives were related to other domains of classroom practices. The study involved 70 third-, fourth-, and fifth-grade classrooms with ELL students in six urban elementary schools. Results indicated that students generally made few, low-quality initiatives. Student initiatives were generally not related to the other domains of classroom practices for grades 3 and 4, whereas initiatives were significantly related to almost all the other domains for grade 5. These results contribute to the knowledge base for fostering ELL students' initiatives in science classrooms.
Developing a Watershed Characteristics Database to Improve Low Streamflow Prediction

Information regarding topographic, meteorologic, geologic, and geomorphic characteristics is increasingly available in spa- tially explicit digital formats. Of interest is whether enhanced spatial processing of newly available digital grids can lead to new estimators of watershed characteristics which may in turn, improve our ability to predict extreme hydrologic events. Regional hydrologic models of low-flow processes often produce estimators with unacceptably large errors. Using a continuous digital elevation model ~DEM! of the conterminous United States, watershed boundaries were developed for the streamflow gauges of the USGS's Hydro-Climatic Data Network. Using these watershed boundaries, many watershed characteristics were developed from digital grids, including: the original DEM, the USDA's State Soil Geographic grids, and the Spatial Climate Analysis Service's orographically weighted precipitation and temperature grids of varying spatial and temporal resolution. Digital processing of grids leads to improvements in estimation and reproducibility of spatial statistics over traditional manual processing approaches. Low-flow regional regression models were developed for regions across the conterminous United States. Inclusion of the new watershed characteristics led to improvements in regional regression models for all regions. The inclusion of hydrogeologic indices, in particular a new smoothed baseflow recession constant estimator, led to dramatic improvements in low-flow prediction.
The effects of recording medium upon reversal records

The effects of magnetic recording by different rock types upon the appearance of paleomagnetic records of reversals have been simulated using a model of transition fields. Lava records were simulated using a Poisson process. The results are characterized by hangups and impulses which are not present in the reversal model, but resemble observed lava records of reversals. Sedimentary records simulated by smoothing produce predictable attenuation of features of the model, and, if a component of random noise is added, seem to match the appearance of many observed sedimentary records. These numerical experiments suggest that many features that might be interpreted as field behavior may generated by the recording process.
Lectern II: a multimedia lecture capturing and editing system

Deployment of asynchronous learning systems is still very limited mainly because of the use of expensive video to record and play back classroom lectures. The key advantage of the Lectern II approach is that all important lecture components can be effectively captured without video. Lectern II employs the touch-sensitive screen technology to build a "digital desk," which is shown to be able to effectively support and transparently capture the standard classroom lecturing activity. Recorded lectures can be edited and automatically uploaded to a Web server, and than viewed by students via a standard streaming player. As the total cost of a complete Lectern II system is under $4,000, Lectern II represents the first course lecture recording system that has the potential to be widely deployed in the classrooms of universities and K-12 schools.
Global Vaccination Recommendations and Thimerosal

* Abbreviations: UNEP — : United Nations Environmental Programme WHO — : World Health Organization Vaccines remain one of the most effective ways to prevent infectious disease and deaths globally.1 Universal childhood immunization provides herd immunity against many infectious agents and is a policy that has achieved dramatic reductions in common childhood illnesses. Thimerosal, which contains ethyl mercury, has been used as a preservative in vaccines to prevent contamination of multidose vials from bacteria and fungi since the 1930s.2 Although there are clear neurotoxic effects of methyl mercury absorption, ethyl mercury has not been associated with those consequences. Nevertheless, before data were available on risks of thimerosal in vaccines, in 1999 the American Academy of Pediatrics and the US Public Health Service recommended moving toward removing thimerosal use in preservatives as a precautionary measure.3 Thus, thimerosal as … Address correspondence to Walter A. Orenstein, MD, 1462 Clifton Rd, Suite 446, Atlanta, GA 30322. E-mail: worenst{at}emory.edu
ISOLATION OF POSTSYNAPTIC DENSITIES FROM RAT BRAIN

Most synapses in the central nervous system exhibit a prominent electron-opaque specialization of the postsynaptic plasma membrane called the postsynaptic density (PSD). We have developed a procedure for the isolation of PSDs which is based on their buoyant density and their insolubility in N-lauroyl sarcosinate. Treatment of synaptic membranes with this detergent solubilizes most plasma membranes and detaches PSDs from the plasma membrane so that they can be purified on a density gradient. Isolated PSDs appear structurally intact and exhibit those properties which characterize them in tissue. The isolated PSDs are of the size, shape, and electron opacity of those seen in tissue; they stain with both ethanolic phosphotungstic acid and bismuth iodide-uranyl lead and the fraction contains cyclic 3',5'-phosphodiesterase activity. Quantitative electron microscope analysis of the PSD fraction gives an estimated purity of better than 85%. Inasmuch as the PSD is associated primarily with dendritic excitatory synapses, our PSD fraction represents the distinctive plasma membrane specialization of this specific synaptic type in isolation.
A technique for including surface tension effects in hydrodynamic calculations

Abstract A technique is described for including the effects of surface tension in time-dependent, hydrodynamics calculations. The fluid interface is initially marked with a sequence of interface particles, which thereafter move through the computation mesh at the local fluid velocity. At each calculation cycle these particles are joined by sections of cubics in order to determine the orientation of the fluid interface. From this orientation the surface tension contribution to the fluid acceleration is determined.
Excess Dietary Lysine Increases Growth of Chicks Fed Niacin-Deficient Diets, but Dietary Quinolinic Acid Has No Niacin-Sparing Activity

Catabolism of Trp and Lys produces alpha-ketoadipic acid as an intermediary metabolite. An alternate pathway of Trp turnover leads to NAD synthesis. We hypothesized that excess Lys might improve the conversion of Trp to niacin by causing a buildup of alpha-ketoadipic acid, thereby endproduct inhibiting the main Trp catabolic pathway and resulting in more niacin synthesis from Trp. Six bioassays were carried out in which 12 to 20 chicks were fed each experimental diet from d 8 to d 20 or 21 posthatching. The basal diet (4 mg/kg of bioavailable niacin) used for all assays was a semipurified corn gluten meal diet fortified with crystalline amino acids to 22.5% CP and 0.96% true digestible Lys. Assay 1 through 3 established the requirements for digestible Trp (0.16%) and bioavailable niacin (19.5 mg/kg) and showed that 0.96% digestible Lys was adequate for chick growth in the presence of adequate Trp and niacin. The fourth assay was done to determine the effect of 1% Lys (1.25% food-grade L-Lys x HCl) on niacin utilization. Excess Lys improved (P < 0.01) weight gain of niacin-deficient chicks. The fifth assay showed that 1% excess food-grade Lys improved weight gain in niacin-deficient (4 mg/kg) chicks but depressed weight gain in niacin-adequate (24 mg/kg) chicks (niacin x Lys interaction, P < 0.01). In assay 6, chicks fed 6 mg/kg of niacin gained faster (P < 0.01) than control chicks, but neither quinolinic acid (100 mg/kg) nor picolinic acid (4,200 mg/kg) elicited a response. These results suggest that excess Lys leads to an accumulation of alpha-ketoadipic acid, which causes endproduct inhibition of the main Trp catabolic pathway to CO(2), therefore increasing flux of 2-amino-3-carboxymuconate semialdehyde to NAD.
An SSCOP-based link layer protocol for wireless LANs

The IEEE 802.11 standard provides fast recovery from frame losses using a rapid link level positive acknowledgment scheme. However, the adoption of positive acknowledgment leads to inefficient frame transmission. To improve efficiency of the acknowledgments mechanism in IEEE 802.11, we propose a novel link layer protocol for wireless LANs. The proposed protocol is an adaptation of an ATM-based protocol, the service specific connection oriented protocol (SSCOP), for use as a link layer protocol in wireless LANs. The protocol uses significantly less bandwidth on the return path and enhances the performance of data frame transmission. We evaluate and compare the performance of the protocol with IEEE 802.11. The results show that the proposed protocol has a much better performance in an error-prone wireless environment, even when the bit error rate is severely degraded.
Potential Unintended Consequences of the Movement Toward Forensic Laboratory Independence

The scholarly literature identifies two types of errors of justice: errors of due process and errors of impunity. Errors of due process involve failing to protect the innocent from becoming ensnare...
Identification of Two Escherichia coli Pseudouridine Synthases That Show Multisite Specificity for 23S RNA

Several putative Escherichia coli pseudouridine (Psi) synthases have been identified by iterative searching of genomic databases for ORFs homologous to known Psi synthases [Gustafsson et al. (1996) Nucleic Acids Res. 24, 3756-3762]. Of these, yceC and yfiI were proposed to encode Psi synthases which modify 23S rRNA. In the present work, yceC and yfiI were cloned and overexpressed in E. coli, and the encoded enzymes, YceC and YfiI, were purified to homogeneity. Both proteins converted Urd residues of rRNA to Psi, thus confirming their identities as Psi synthases. However, in in vitro experiments both enzymes extensively modified Urd residues of both 23S rRNA and 16S rRNA. Gene-disruption of yceCresulted in the absence of Psi modification at positions U955, 2504, and 2580 of 23S RNA, thus identifying these sites as in vivo targets for YceC. Likewise, yfiI disruption resulted in the absence of Psi modification at positions U1911, 1917, and possibly 1915 of 23S RNA. Disruption of yceC did not affect the growth under the conditions tested, whereas yfiI-disrupted cells showed a dramatic decrease in growth rate. Since YceC and YfiI hypermodify RNA in vitro, factors in addition to ribonucleotide sequence must contribute to the in vivo specificity of these enzymes.
Stabilizing volatile liquid chemicals using co-crystallization

A convenient, effective, and scalable protocol for stabilizing volatile liquid chemicals is reported. Through the use of halogen-bond driven co-crystal synthesis, several examples of liquid iodoperfluoroalkanes are transformed into crystalline materials with low-vapor pressure, considerable thermal stability, and moisture resistance. The target compounds can subsequently be re-generated through simple solvent-extractions.
1.5-W CW S-band GaInP/GaAs/GaInP double heterojunction bipolar transistor

We report the first large-signal power result from a double heterojunction bipolar transistor (DHBT) based on the GaInP/GaAs/GaInP material system. A CW output power of 1.51 W and a power added efficiency of 52% were achieved at 3 GHz. Because the GaInP collector has a relatively high bandgap of 1.89 eV, high DC bias voltage operation with collector bias extending to 20 V (for a 40-V swing) is possible in this GaInP/GaAs/GaInP DHBT. This high DC bias voltage operation represents a unique advantage over the more conventional AlGaAs/GaAs HBT. >
Mouse Models of Stargardt 3 Dominant Macular Degeneration

Stargardt type 3 macular degeneration is dependent on a dominant defect in a single gene, ELOVL4 (elongase of very long chain fatty acids 4). The encoded enzyme, ELOVL4, is required for the synthesis of very long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (VLC-PUFAs), a rare class of > C24 lipids. In vitro expression studies suggest that mutated ELOVL4STGD3 proteins fold improperly, resulting in ER stress and formation of cytosolic aggresomes of wild type and mutant ELOVL4. Although a number of mouse models have been developed to determine whether photoreceptor cell loss in STGD3 results from depletion of VLC-PUFAs, aggresome-dependent cell stress or a combination of these two factors, none of these models adequately recapitulates the disease phenotype in humans. Thus, the precise molecular mechanism by which ELOVL4 mutation causes photoreceptor degeneration in mice and in human patients remains to be characterized. This mini review compares and evaluates current STGD3 mouse models and determines what conclusions can be drawn from past work.
Team Dynamics at 35,000 Feet

Publisher Summary This chapter aims to provide an update to Foushee and Helmreich's (1988) analysis on group interaction and flight crew performance, as much has changed in flight crew performance in the past 20 years. Furthermore, it aims to push the agenda for advancing one's understanding of aviation crews, their training, and the factors that influence their performance. Specifically, it reviews the need to address performance issues in flight crews, highlights advances in understanding flight crew performance and their training, particularly through the use of CRM, and delineates directions for future research in this area. It is hoped that with this update, the chapter paints a clear picture of the current state of the art in flight crew performance, as well as addresses the future human performance concerns for such teams.
Flush Air Data Sensing for Soaring-Capable UAVs

Dynamic soaring extracts energy from naturally occurring wind gradients that can be used to extend aircraft endurance, particularly in small UAVs. Autonomous thermal soaring has already been validated in ight tests with small UAVs, but this level of demonstration has not been performed for dynamic soaring UAVs, partly due to the precise wind measurements required. This paper explores wind vector sensing using ush pressure ports located on the nose of small sailplanes. Single Hidden Layer neural networks are used to generate regression models to calculate the airspeed, angle of attack, and angle of sideslip and are trained with pressure measurements collected during wind tunnel tests. These models are then applied to pressure measurements taken during ight tests of the aircraft and sensing system to judge the viability of the method.
A Survey of Some Common Midwestern Plants for Juvenile Hormone Activity

Forty-eight species of cultivated and wild flowering plants in Nebraska were assayed for juvenile hormone (JH) activity. Except for a few plant species, extracts were made of flower heads. Extracts were assayed using pupae of the yellow mealworm, Tenebrio molitor L., as test indicators of JH activity. Examination of over 900 T. molitor adults, treated as pupae, revealed limited evidence of juvenilization. Vestigial urogomphi were present on some adults previously treated as pupae with extracts of 5 plant species. Bioassay of Nepeta cataria (Tourn.) Reichenb, extracts revealed 1 pupal-adult intermediate.
Marketing and the United States Supreme Court, 1975–1981

The U.S. Supreme Court conditions the legal environment of marketing, and over the past six years, its decisions have both limited and expanded the constraints on marketers. Constraints have been imposed on marketing operations, particularly pricing and channels of distribution, on marketing organizations, and on the relevant regulatory procedures. Indications are that future changes may be imminent, particularly in allowing greater marketing autonomy within a private enterprise system.
Optimization of technical conditions of producing ribavirin by mixed fermentation

Ribavirin production by the mixed fermentation of Bacillus substilis TM903 and Corynebacterium glutamicum TL1105 was studied.The inoculum size of TL1105 and the optimal addition of KH2PO4, MnSO4, 1H-1,2,4-triazole-3-carboxamide (TCA) in the fermentation medium were established initially.Then, the factorial design by MINITAB software was employed to optimize the adding mode of glucose, KH2PO4, MnSO4, TCA, which suggested that MINITAB software was the more effective tool in the culture medium optimization.Under the optimal conditions, the yield of ribavirin was 4.69 g·L-1 after 60 h fermentation with glucose added one-off and KH2PO4, Mn2+and TCA fed in batches.
A new established method for liver cancer screening based on system of colloidal gold and aptamer

Objective To establish a simple method for liver cancer screening.Methods Based on comparison of the before-and-after A660/A520 absorbance variation of adding cells,a spectrophotomer was used for scaning the spectroscopy of system of colloidal gold and aptamer.Results It was found that A660/A520 absorbance variation of adding liver cancer cells was modified more than the other cells.The colour of the system was changed from red to blue.Conclusion It was suggested that the new method,which was inexpensive,simple and accurate for liver cancer screening based on the system of colloidal gold and aptamer,can be applied widely.
TELLING THE TALE, TELLING THE NATION: TIV TALES, MODERNITY AND THE (RE)CONSTRUCTION OF NIGERIAN NATIONHOOD

Scholarship negotiating African folktales and the entire folkloric tradition in Africa has always been constituted as harbouring fundamental lacks. One of these lacks is the supposed incapacity of oral cultures to produce high literature. However, it is true that folktales and other oral forms in Africa can participate actively in the social, political and cultural process. In this paper, we engage folktales told by the Tiv of central Nigeria and situate them within the dynamic of history, culture, modernity and national construction in Nigeria. The paper adopts a historicist and culturalist perspective in its interpretation of the folktales which were collected in particular Tiv communities. This methodological approach helps to crystallize the historical and cultural lineaments embedded in the peopleâ€™s experiences, values and worldviews. It also constitutes a contextual background for the understanding of the folktales as they offer informed commentaries on social currents and political contingencies in Nigeria. It argues that though folktales belong to a pre-scientific and pre-industrial dispensation, they are part of the peopleâ€™s intangible cultural heritage and are capable of distilling powerful statements which negotiate Nigerian modernity and postcolonial condition. The paper underscores the dynamism and functionality of folktales even in an increasingly globalised ethos.