cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Localized effects of spatial frequency adaptation.

The spatially localized threshold-elevation aftereffect of spatial-frequency adaptation was measured by using localized, aperiodic test patterns that have bandpass Fourier transforms. At a given retinal location, the threshold-elevation curves are consistent with the fatigue of size-tuned mechanisms with center-surround sensitivity profile. Only a few different sizes of such mechanisms were required to fit the local results. The local aftereffect was also measured as a function of eccentricity near the fovea. The results indicate that the threshold-elevation aftereffect of spatial-frequency adaptation is not spatially homogeneous.
A biomedical research permissions ontology: cognitive and knowledge representation considerations

In designing a comprehensive mechanism for managing informed consents and permissions for biomedical research involving human participants, a significant effort is dedicated to the development of standardized classification of these consents and permissions. In this paper, we describe the considerations and implications of this effort that should be addressed during the development of a Biomedical Research Permissions Ontology (RPO). It is hoped that this standardization will allow disparate research institutions to pool research data and associated consents and permissions in order to facilitate collaborative translational research projects across multiple institutions and subsequent new breakthroughs in medicine while providing: 1) essential built in protections for privacy and confidentiality of research participants and 2) a mechanism for insuring that researchers adhere to patient's intent whether to participate in research or not.
Response to Letter Regarding Article, “Dynamic MicroRNA Expression Programs During Cardiac Differentiation of Human Embryonic Stem Cells: Role for miR-499”

We are appreciative of the interest shown by van Mil et al in our recent article, “Dynamic MicroRNA Expression Programs During Cardiac Differentiation of Human Embryonic Stem Cells: Role for miR-499,” and are pleased that there is consistency between our study and theirs in describing the microRNA profiles of human cardiomyocytes. We agree that multiple cell types are needed in order to elucidate the role that microRNAs such as miR-499 play in cellular differentiation. There are several points we would like to make regarding their letter. Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) are fundamentally different from cardiac progenitor cells. The embryonic cell begins from an undifferentiated, pluripotent state in which all lineages are possible, whereas the …
Principal ideal rings and a condition of Kummer

Edwards [2] has delved into the history of the well-known story to the effect that Kummer thought he had a proof of Fermat’s last theorem, but Dirichlet pointed out to him that he was tacitly assuming that the ring Z[<] of algeraic integers in the cyclotomic field Q(c) is a unique factorization domain (UFD). Edwards traces the origin of this story to a 1910 lecture of Hensel [7], and is inclined to doubt its accuracy because of Kummer’s familiarity with the reciprocity work of Jacobi and Gauss. On the other hand, Edwards points out a couple of errors Kummer made at different points in his proof that Fermat’s last theorem holds for regular primes. One of these errors occurs in an 1844 manuscript of Kummer that was first published as an appendix to [ 3 ]. The error in question occurs on p. 390 of (3 1; to explain what it is, we introduce a condition which we label as Condition (K): The commutative ring R with identity is said to satisfy Condition (K) if for all X, y E R, either (x, y) = R or (x, v) is contained in a proper principal ideal of R; we refer to a ring satisfying this condition as a @)-ring. After almost 140 years, it is impossible to know precisely what the basis for Kummer’s error in [3, p. 3901 was, but it seems clear that it was related to Condition (K). Edwards [3, p. 385 ] seems to feel that Kummer was assuming Condition (K) in Z[t;][X], while Waterhouse 191 infers that
Addition of sugars influences color of oil-in-water emulsions.

The influence of glucose, fructose, lactose, and glycerol on the color and appearance of surfactant-stabilized oil-in-water emulsions containing a red dye was investigated. A stabilized (Tween-20) ...
SmartDispatch: enabling efficient ticket dispatch in an IT service environment

In an IT service delivery environment, the speedy dispatch of a ticket to the correct resolution group is the crucial first step in the problem resolution process. The size and complexity of such environments make the dispatch decision challenging, and incorrect routing by a human dispatcher can lead to significant delays that degrade customer satisfaction, and also have adverse financial implications for both the customer and the IT vendor. In this paper, we present SmartDispatch, a learning-based tool that seeks to automate the process of ticket dispatch while maintaining high accuracy levels. SmartDispatch comes with two classification approaches - the well-known SVM method, and a discriminative term-based approach that we designed to address some of the issues in SVM classification that were empirically observed. Using a combination of these approaches, SmartDispatch is able to automate the dispatch of a ticket to the correct resolution group for a large share of the tickets, while for the rest, it is able to suggest a short list of 3-5 groups that contain the correct resolution group with a high probability. Empirical evaluation of SmartDispatch on data from 3 large service engagement projects in IBM demonstrate the efficacy and practical utility of the approach.
Synthetic models of metalloenzymes

Abstract Metal ions play an important role in the enzymic catalysis of many metalloproteins. The molecular details of the catalytic cycle are often obscured by the complexity of the biological system. It has been the goal of our research for the past few years to elucidate the mechanisms of metalloenzymes through the synthesis of simple metal complexes that mimic the structure of the active sites. The reactivity of such metal complexes have provided insights into the enzyme mechanism. Further, successful enzyme models have provided a rational basis for the construction of synthetic, biomimetic catalysts. In this lecture, recent advances in the study of active site models of carboxypeptidase A, CPA, a zinc-containing protease, and cytochrome P-450, a heme-containing monooxygenase will be described. The role of zinc in the peptidase activity of CPA has been ascribed to coordination of the substrate amide carbonyl, coordination of a nucleophilic hydroxide or even to a less specific structural role. To choose among these possibilities we have synthesized a family of metal-complexing amides which does not allow a metal-carbonyl interaction. Large zinc- and copper-mediated rate enhancements (10 4 10 7 ) for amide hydrolysis are observed with these compounds. Kinetic and titrimetric measurements indicate that the deprotonation of a metal-bound water is a component of this catalysis. A mechanism for amide hydrolysis involving nucleophilic attack of a metal hydroxide is consistent with the observed results. The catalytic cycle of cytochrome P-450 has been suggested to involve a reactive oxo-iron intermediate which is responsible for oxygen transfer to the substrate. We have prepared the first synthetic example of an iron(IV)-porphyrin cation radical complex ( 1 ). This species has been shown to be extraordinarily reactive toward hydrocarbons. The physico-chemical characterization of 1 and the elucidation of the mechanism of olefin epoxidation and alkane hydroxylation will be described.
A simple test method for determining jIC of mild steel by means of single side-grooved precracked charpy-type specimen

Abstract Based on Eftis and Liebowitz's empirical formula for a load-displacement curve, a method for determining J IC of mild steel from the maximum load point on P-Δ curve was proposed. The effect of subcritical crack growth was considered. The test results on two kinds of steel were compared with the results of the standard multiple specimen method.
Uredo maua, sp. nov., and Uromyces tairae : Additions to the rust flora of Hawai'i

Uredo maua, onXylosma hawaiiense (Flacourtiaceae), an endemic tree of Hawaiian forests, is newly described as an addition to Hawai'i's native rust flora.Uredo wakensis, originally described from Wake Island and reported from other Pacific islands onTournefortia argentea (Boraginaceae), represents the uredinial state ofUromyces tairae, described from Okinawa. This rust is newly reported from Hawai'i.
Functional dependencies and normal forms in the fuzzy relational database model

Abstract The fuzzy relational database model as defined by Buckles and Petry employs sets in place of atomic values for components of tuples in database relations. This technique for dealing with imprecision in relational databases is intuitively appealing. Moreover, the model preserves several important properties of classical relational databases. In recent works we have demonstrated that the existence of partitions on scalar domains is the key to ensuring conformity with the classical relational model. Specifically, by restricting the components of fuzzy tuples to be nonempty subsets of equivalence classes from domain partitions, it is possible to define the notions of redundant tuples and consistent database relations and to specify a well-defined fuzzy relational algebra. Since these properties are obtained by working only with equivalence classes, the fuzzy relational model of Buckles and Petry is generalized to an equivalence classes model of relational databases. In this work, additional properties of the fuzzy relational database model are presented. By employing equivalence classes from domain partitions, we define functional dependencies and normal forms for the fuzzy relational model. These definitions extend the corresponding classical definitions. Moreover, our definitions of functional dependencies and normal forms provide valuable guidelines for designing fuzzy relational databases.
Iodocholesterol Adrenal Tissue Uptake and Imaging in Adrenal Neoplasms

To correlate iodocholesterol tissue uptake with the ability to visualize adrenal cortical neoplasms, eight female patients with adrenal carcinoma had adrenal scintiscans after the injection of 19-[131I]iodocholesterol. Patients with cortisolsecreting carcinomas failed to image either the tumor or uninvolved adrenal tissue. In contrast, patients with androgen-secreting carcinomas (which do not suppress pituitary ACTH secretion), although still failing to image the tumor, had visible concentration of the radionuclide in the ipsilateral and contralateral adrenal glands. Slices of these tissues obtained at either surgery or postmortem examination were analyzed for iodocholesterol uptake. Results were compared with adrenal tissue obtained from patients with either cortisol- or aldosterone-secreting adenomas and patients on dexamethasone suppression. There was a strong correlation between the adrenal tissue concentration of iodocholesterol and the ability to form an image on scintiscanning. The concentration of...
Radon-transform-based landmine signatures extracted from ground penetrating radar imagery

Step-frequency ground penetrating radar (SFGPR) is a prominent sensor in current buried land mine and unexploded ordnance (UXO) detection systems. Often GPR data is presented in its raw form and it is left to the signal processor to condition the signal. Discussed are the basics of SFGPR and how to condition the data with a minimum of a priori information. Qualitative comparison is shown between first order simulations and measured SFGPR data. Upon conclusion, detection and classification features based on the Radon transform are presented.
Center for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention: Risk Assessment and Reduction

Cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death in the United States, accounting for more than 1.4 million deaths each year (American Heart Association. Heart and Stroke Statistics-2004 Update. Dallas, Texas: American Heart Association, 2003). The Center for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention (CCDP) was created in 2000, as a partnership between the Methodist DeBakey Heart Center and Baylor College of Medicine, to identify and implement new preventive and therapeutic strategies to reduce pain, suffering and death from cardiovascular disease. In clinical and translational research, investigators at the CCDP use a comprehensive approach directed at improving both risk assessment and risk reduction.
MicroRNA binding site polymorphisms as biomarkers of cancer risk

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are well established as global gene regulators and thus, slight alterations in miRNA levels as well as their ability to regulate their targets may cause important cellular changes leading to cancer risk. 3´ untranslated region (UTR) miRNA binding site single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have added another layer of possible genetic variation involved in the complex process of oncogenesis. Identifying these key genetically inherited effectors of miRNA functioning has improved our understanding of the complexity of disease. Interest in the field has grown rapidly in only the last 5 years, with several studies reporting on the role of 3´UTR binding site SNPs as genetic markers of increased cancer susceptibility, as well as biomarkers of cancer type, outcome and response to therapy. Currently, there are numerous known miRNA binding site SNPs associated with multiple cancer subtypes.
Sex differences in intelligence: Implications for education.

Sex differences in intelligence is among the most politically volatile topics in contemporary psychology. Although no single finding has unanimous support, conclusions from multiple studies suggest that females, on average, score higher on tasks that require rapid access to and use of phonological and semantic information in long-term memory, production and comprehension of complex prose, fine motor skills, and perceptual speed. Males, on average, score higher on tasks that require transformations in visual-spatial working memory, motor skills involved in aiming, spatiotemporal responding, and fluid reasoning, especially in abstract mathematical and scientific domains. Males, however, are also over-represented in the low-ability end of several distributions, including mental retardation, attention disorders, dyslexia, stuttering, and delayed speech. A psychobiosocial model that is based on the inextricable links between the biological bases of intelligence and environmental events is proposed as an alternative to nature-nurture dichotomies. Societal implications and applications to teaching and learning are suggested.
Pharmacologic and toxicologic effects of Di(β-phenylisopropyl)amine (DPIA) in rats and mice

1. Di(beta-phenylisopropyl)amine (DPIA) given i.p. to mice and rats in sublethal doses caused increased motility, mild stereotypic behavior and suppression of food intake. Repeated daily doses led to enhanced motor stimulation, and in one group, 40% lethality, indicating development of "reverse tolerance". Brain monoamine modifiers prevented DPIA-induced motor activity. 2. Treatment with toxic i.p. doses of DPIA enabled determination of the LD50, which was 106.8 mg/kg for isolated mice and 89.7 mg/kg for mice kept in aggregation after dosing. Possible antidotal agents given before a high DPIA dose (LD50) protected significantly against lethality. 3. Combinations of DPIA with (+)-amphetamine in mice at lethal doses showed a subadditive synergism. 4. Effects of DPIA on the cardiovascular system, both i.v. in anesthetized rats and in isolated atrial preparations, were mainly opposite to those of (+)-amphetamine, namely decreases in blood pressure, force of contraction and heart rate.
Conformational studies by far infrared and Raman spectra of gases

Abstract One of the major goals of conformational analysis is the calculation of the energy difference between two or more conformers, ΔE, as well as the energy necessary for interconversion. The calculation of these energy quantities is facilitated by using a potential function which describes the vibrational motion, or internal rotation (torsion), as a function of the dihedral angle, α. The potential function is called asymmetric because both the frame and top portions of the molecule have no symmetry element higher than a plane. The most common type of potential function where at least one of the minima coincides with the plane of symmetry is of the type: V(α) = 1 2 ΣV i (1 - cos iα). The kinetic energy term, F(α), is extremely complicated. In general, if the only data being used to calculate the potential function are torsional transitions, and if one continues within the boundary conditions of a one-dimensional problem, then a cosine expansion of F(α) should be adequate: F(α) = F 0 + ΣF i cos iα. For those systems where there is an equilibrium between a planar form and two non-planar forms, V 3 is usually the predominant term. This is because V 3 represents a three maxima/three minima potential per 2π (360°) internal rotation. In a similar fashion, V 2 is found to be the predominant term in the potential function for a system consisting of two equivalent non-planar conformers. Several examples of our most recent studies are given where the potential function for interconversion of two conformers has been determined.
Rotational spectral anomalies and conformations of p-n-propyl benzaldehyde

Abstract The rotational band spectrum of gaseous p-n-propyl benzaldehyde at room temperature displays intense bands from two different conformations of the compound, one with the substituted propyl in the anti conformation and the other gauche. But the compound has two different gauche conformers because the asymmetry of the benzaldehyde substituent distinguishes the two propyl gauche species. The spectrum was also studied at high-resolution conditions in a pulsed-jet Fourier-Transform microwave spectrometer and all three of the expected conformers (one anti and two gauche) are identified and characterized. Possible models to explain the coalescence of the band spectra of the two gauche conformers at room temperature are discussed.
Wavelength hopping using time gating of a chirped supercontinuum

We propose and demonstrate a new technique for realizing wavelength tuning that promises rapid response over a wide optical bandwidth. Wavelength tuning is obtained by varying the delay of the RF pulse that time-gates a linearly chirped Super Continuum (SC). Preliminary experiments demonstrating static tuning range of 90nm are reported.
Synthesis of catechol estrogens by human uterus and leiomyoma.

Abstract Homogenates of human endometrial, myometrial and leiomyoma tissues were incubated with (2,4,6,7-3H)-estradiol and tritiated catechol estrogens were isolated and identified. Though 2-and 4-hydroxylations were about the same in endometrium, 4-hydroxylation was two to four fold higher than 2-hydroxylation in myometrium and leiomyoma. However, endometrium showed greater capacity to form both 2- and 4-hydroxyestrogens than the other two tissues. Both 2- and 4-hydroxylations were significantly less than in myometrium. In view of the reports indicating that inhibitors of catechol 0-methyl transferease (COMT) might act as anti-neoplastic agents due to their interferance with t-RNA methylases and since catechol estrogens inhibit COMT, the present results suggest that endogenous synthesis of catechol estrogens may play an important role in the pathophysiology of uterine leiomyoma.
Near-wall flow in a three-dimensional boundary layer on the endwall of a 30¡ bend

Turbulence measurements are reported on the three-dimensional turbulent boundary layer along the centerline of the flat endwall in a 30° bend. Profiles of mean velocities and Reynolds stresses were obtained down to y+≈2 for the mean flow and y+≈8 for the turbulent stresses. Mean velocity data collapsed well on a simple law-of-the-wall based on the magnitude of the resultant velocity. The turbulence intensity and turbulent shear stress magnitude both increased with increased three-dimensionality. The ratio of these two quantities, the a1 structure parameter, decreased in the central regions of the boundary layer and showed profile similarity for y+<50. The shear stress vector angle lagged behind the velocity gradient vector angle in the outer region of the boundary layer, however there was an indication that the shear stress vector tends to lead the velocity gradient vector close to the wall.
Roughness evolution of optical materials induced by ion-beam milling

Ion beam milling is an emerging advanced optical fabrication technology capable of deterministic figuring of optical surfaces. Much of the work in ion milling to data has emphasized figuring of glass-like materials, such as fused silica, which do not significantly roughen during ion milling. However, for ion milling to reach its full potential as an advanced optical fabrication technique it must be applicable to a broad range of materials to interest in optical fabrication including polycrystalline metals, semiconductors, and ceramics. In order to assess the feasibility of ion milling, the effect of ion dose on roughness evolution was investigated for a variety of materials including: silicon, germanium, sapphire, silicon carbide, fused silica, aluminum, and copper. Single crystal silicon, germanium and sapphire as well as polycrystalline CVD silicon carbide did not significantly roughen during ion milling. The roughness evolution of aluminum, copper and gold thin films were also studied; fine grained gold films were found to remain smooth during ion milling.
Analysis of phase-jitter evolution in a reattaching shear layer

A modification to the phase-jitter calculation procedure of Ho et al. (J Fluid Mech 230:319–337, 1991), called the HZFB method (Ho, Zohar, Foss, and Buell), and an extension of the pattern recognition technique for phase-jitter calculation are presented in this work. Results for the phase jitter calculated using the three methods are compared for a separated shear layer past a surface-mounted rib. The original HZFB method is shown to yield inaccurate results in the presence of small-scale turbulence, while the modified HZFB method and the pattern recognition technique provide the correct estimates of phase jitter.
Depression, Hippocampal Volume Changes, and Cognitive Decline in a Clinical Sample of Older Depressed Outpatients and Non-depressed Controls

Objective: The aim of this study was to develop and test a model of depression, hippocampal changes, and cognitive decline. Method: Participants were 248 community-dwelling, depressed patients and 147 healthy, non-depressed individuals 60 years and older. Participants received a structured interview assessing current depressive symptoms and past depressive episodes, completed cognitive testing with the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), and underwent structural Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the brain. For up to 10 years, assessment of depressive symptoms and MMSE administration was repeated at least annually, and MRI was repeated every two years. Results: Regression analyses demonstrated that depression diagnosis at baseline predicted decrease in right (but not left) hippocampal volume over a four-year period. Analyses using structural equation modeling demonstrated that a decrease in left and right hippocampal volumes predicted decrease in MMSE score over four years. Conclusion: Results provide ...
Structural characteristics of social networks and their relationship with social support in the elderly: Who provides support.

Abstract The analyses presented here examine relationships between structural characteristics of social networks and two types of support (instrumental and emotional support) in a sample of community- dwelling individuals aged 65 and older. For each type of support, two dimensions are examined (1) the availability of such support and (2) the perceived adequacy of that support. Regression models, adjusting for age, sex, race and income show that structural characteristics such as total network size, number of face-to-face contacts and number of proximal ties are associated with greater availability of both instrumental and emotional support. The perceived adequacy of both types of support is most strongly related to the number of monthly face-to-face contacts. Comparisons of specific types of ties show that neither ones' spouse nor ones' children are primary sources of support. Rather the presence of a confidant is strongly associated with both dimensions of instrumental and emotional support; the presence of a spouse is not. And, while ties with children are most strongly related to aspects of instrumental support, ties with close friends and relatives are more strongly related to aspects of emotional support. Analyses of possible interactions show that for those without a spouse, confidants assume greater importance in providing emotional support. For those without children, ties with close friends and relatives assume a larger role relative to the perceived adequacy of both emotional and instrumental support.
Comparison of telomerase activity and GSTP1 promoter methylation in ejaculate as potential screening tests for prostate cancer.

New diagnostic tools are needed for the early detection of prostatic cancer. The molecular detection of prostate cancer cells in ejaculates was evaluated using complementary PCR-based methods. LNCaP cells, a cell line derived from prostatic carcinoma, were spiked into normal seminal ejaculates and the prostatic epithelial component of the specimens was isolated by immunomagnetic bead sorting, using a monoclonal antibody to prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA). Ejaculates from nine patients with a recent diagnosis of prostate cancer were processed in a similar fashion, using LNCaP-spiked aliquots as an internal positive control. Telomerase expression was evaluated by the telomeric repeat amplification protocol (TRAP) and glutathione S-transferase gene promoter (GSTP1) hypermethylation was evaluated by methylation-sensitive restriction endonuclease digestion and PCR amplification. Telomerase activity was detected in LNCaP cells recovered from normal seminal ejaculates but was not found in all nine samples from patients with prostate cancer. The sensitivity of GSTP1 analysis was similar to telomerase analysis for the detection of LNCaP cells from normal ejaculate samples but was positive in ejaculates from four out of nine patients with prostate cancer. GSTP1 DNA methylation status is more sensitive than telomerase analysis for the detection of malignant cells in seminal ejaculates from patients with prostate cancer.
The dynamics of A2125

We present 371 galaxy velocities in the field of the very rich cluster A2125 (z ≈ 0.25). These were determined using optical spectroscopy collected over several years from both the WIYN 3.5 m telescope and NOAO Mayall 4 m telescope. Prior studies at a variety of wavelengths (radio, optical, and X-ray) have indicated that A2125 is a likely cluster-cluster merger, a scenario that we are able to test using our large velocity database. We identified 224 cluster galaxies, which were subjected to a broad range of statistical tests using both positional and velocity information to evaluate the cluster dynamics and substructure. The tests confirmed the presence of substructures within the A2125 system at high significance, demonstrating that A2125 is a complex dynamical system. Comparison of the test results with existing simulations strengthens the merger hypothesis and provides clues about the merger geometry and stage. The merger model for the system can reconcile A2125's low X-ray temperature and luminosity with its apparently high richness and might also explain A2125's high fraction of active galaxies identified in prior radio and optical studies.
Current commutators and mass extrapolations, theory and applications

Abstract The equal-time commutation relations of axial vector currents and an off-mass-shell extrapolation are used to compute the S- and P-wave scattering lengths and S-wave effective ranges of some of the meson-baryon and meson-meson elastic scattering amplitudes. The results are in reasonably good agreement with experimental data wherever the latter are available. The technique for obtaining these numbers is developed and analyzed in some detail. The analyticity and unitarity properties of off-mass-shell partial-wave amplitudes are investigated and some results which may be generally useful in off-mass-shell calculations are presented.
Phylogenetic patterns of species loss in Thoreau's woods are driven by climate change

Climate change has led to major changes in the phenology (the timing of seasonal activities, such as flowering) of some species but not others. The extent to which flowering-time response to temperature is shared among closely related species might have important consequences for community-wide patterns of species loss under rapid climate change. Henry David Thoreau initiated a dataset of the Concord, Massachusetts, flora that spans ≈150 years and provides information on changes in species abundance and flowering time. When these data are analyzed in a phylogenetic context, they indicate that change in abundance is strongly correlated with flowering-time response. Species that do not respond to temperature have decreased greatly in abundance, and include among others anemones and buttercups [Ranunculaceae pro parte (p.p.)], asters and campanulas (Asterales), bluets (Rubiaceae p.p.), bladderworts (Lentibulariaceae), dogwoods (Cornaceae), lilies (Liliales), mints (Lamiaceae p.p.), orchids (Orchidaceae), roses (Rosaceae p.p.), saxifrages (Saxifragales), and violets (Malpighiales). Because flowering-time response traits are shared among closely related species, our findings suggest that climate change has affected and will likely continue to shape the phylogenetically biased pattern of species loss in Thoreau's woods.
A spectral alternating method for elastostatic problems with multiple spherical cavities

The problem of an infinite elastic solid containing an arbitrary number of non-overlapping spherical cavities of arbitrary sizes and locations and with arbitrary boundary tractions is considered. The numerical procedure to solve this boundary value problem is based on a spectral method in which the boundary displacements and tractions are represented by truncated series of surface spherical harmonics. By using an alternating method, the problem containing multiple spherical cavities is replaced by a sequence of problems for a single spherical cavity with the boundary conditions adjusted iteratively to account for the cavity interactions. A least squares approximation is used to determine the unknown coefficients of surface spherical harmonics representing these cavity interactions. Several examples are given to illustrate the approach.
Nonphotolithographic fabrication of large computer-generated diffractive optical elements

Large computer generated diffractive optical elements (DOE's) are useful in many applications. Typical sizes of DOE's range from 6 inches up to two meters in diameter. Current state-of-the-art techniques for fabricating these DOE's involve photolithographic processing where photoresist is used as the light sensitive medium and an etchable metal layer is used to form the pattern of the DOE. Handling and costs associated with photolithographic methods become critical issues when the DOE's become large. It is therefore advantageous to have a technique that would not require the photolithographic step in the process. This paper will discuss the instrument and the technique used at the Optical Sciences Center (OSC) for fabricating large computer generated DOE's. A non-photolithographic technique of thermally selective oxidization is used to transfer the DOE pattern onto a metallic film on the substrate. The subsequent etching part of the process takes advantage of the differential etch rates of a non-oxidized and oxidized metal. Figure results indicate the accuracy of using this approach to fabricate DOE's is better than (lambda) /100 rms.
Life cycle greenhouse gas emissions in California rice production

Abstract The nexus of climate change and food security challenges currently facing humanity requires better understanding of how to balance food production needs with climate change mitigation. Life cycle assessment methods provide a way to quantify the climate impacts of a food product by accounting for all greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with its production, including upstream and downstream from the farm. This study modeled life cycle GHG emissions for one kg of milled, unpackaged rice produced in California, USA, a state that achieves some of the highest rice yields in the world. The goal was to (1) provide an assessment of life cycle GHG emissions of a comparatively intensive production system, using local field emissions data, (2) identify emissions hotspots, and (3) create a model that elucidates the life cycle-wide consequences of potential changes in field management practices. Study parameters are based on an annual cropping cycle, with continuous flooding during the growing season and soil incorporation of straw post-harvest, and yields of 9.3 Mt ha −1 dried paddy rice. Field emissions (growing and fallow seasons) were estimated with empirical data while other emissions were calculated using an engineering model coupled with life cycle inventory datasets and vehicle emission models. The 100-year global warming potential (GWP, based on CO 2 , CH 4 and N 2 O) was 1.47 kg CO 2 -equivalent (CO 2 e) kg −1 of milled rice; of which field emissions contributed 69%. These results are relatively low when compared to life cycle studies in other parts of the world, due in large part to higher grain yields and lower field emissions. When using IPCC Tier 1 estimates of field emissions, the GWP increased to 3.60 CO 2 e kg −1 rice, highlighting the importance of using direct field measurements as we have in this study. Due to their large contributions to life cycle GWP, reducing field CH 4 emissions through different field management practices, optimizing N fertilizer use, and increasing fuel efficiency or reducing use of farm machinery present the greatest opportunities to reduce life cycle emissions. Because of high variability and uncertainty in estimating field emissions, they should also be targeted for improved measurement and modeling.
Applications Of Biostereometry To Geriatric Neurology

In this brief account, an effort will be made to describe examples of areas of neurobiological and clinical neuroscientific knowledge whose growth appears to have become more and more dependent on stereological information. The availability of such information is perceived to be related to methods and techniques of acquisition which embody many biostereometric principles. Although limitations of space prevent comprehensive treatment, the examples should serve to portray the status of knowledge as well as the opportunities for the foreseeable future.© (1983) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Positional control of mesoderm movement and fate during avian gastrulation and neurulation.

Segments of primitive streak from donor quail embryos at stages of gastrulation and neurulation were transplanted heterotopically and isochronically to primitive streaks of host chick embryos. The subsequent movement and fate of grafted cells was determined using the quail nucleolar marker to define grafted cells. The pattern of movement of grafted cells depended on their new position within the primitive streak, not on their original position. When cells of cranial regions were placed more caudally, they moved to mesodermal subdivisions that were located lateral to those they would have populated if left in their original position. When caudal segments were placed more cranially, they moved to more medial mesodermal subdivisions. Whether the fate of grafted cells corresponded to their original location or their new location depended on both their level of origin and their new position. Cells from heterotopically transplanted Hensen's nodes, which migrated to the somitic and more lateral mesoderm, self-differentiated notochords. Similarly, in some cases, heterotopically transplanted prospective somitic cells, which migrated to lateral plate mesoderm, formed ectopic somites. In other cases, however, grafted cells contributed to the host's somites, intermediate mesoderm, and lateral plate mesoderm. Moreover, prospective somitic cells, which migrated to the extraembryonic lateral plate mesoderm, changed their fate and formed extraembryonic lateral plate mesoderm; and prospective lateral plate mesoderm cells, which migrated to the somitic mesoderm, formed somites as well as intermediate mesoderm and lateral plate mesoderm. These results suggest that the movement of primitive streak cells to various mediolateral subdivisions of the mesodermal stream is determined solely by their craniocaudal position within the streak, but that determination of cell fate involves a combination of self-differentiation and positional regulation. Cells from cranial levels of the primitive streak exhibit a considerably greater potential to self-differentiate than those from more caudal levels, and cranial cells are more likely to migrate as a coherent group, unlike more caudal cells, which tend to freely disperse within host structures. © 1992 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Growth costs of territorial overlap: experiments with juvenile lizards (Anolis aeneus)

Several theoretical models have suggested that increases in territory overlap with conspecifics should result in lower rates of resource accumulation by territorial residents. This assumption was tested using juvenile Anolis aeneus lizards, which exhibit variable degrees of territory overlap in both the field and laboratory. In a series of laboratory trials under controlled density and resource conditions, juvenile growth rates were negatively related to the degree of territory overlap. This effect aplied to juveniles of all but the lowest status groups, although higher status juveniles had more exclusive territories than did lower status juveniles. Focal studies indicated that food depletion in the zones of overlap was the most likely reason for the negative relationship between territory overlap and growth. It is suggested that juveniles in the field may tolerate extensive territory overlap in spite of growth penalties because of a general shortage of predator-safe homesites in undisturbed habitats.
Environmental temperature and mortality from acute myocardial infarction.

Mortality from acute myocardial infarction (MI) over the 5 year period 1982–1987 in Brown County, Wisconsin, was analyzed to assess the relationship with environmental temperature. Deaths occurrring on the day of and the day following a significant snowfall as well as deaths occuring in health care facilities were eliminated from consideration because the focus was upon temperature, not snowfall or events within a hospital. These criteria resulted in the inclusion of 1,802 days and 926 cases of acute MI. The mean temperature on the day of death was obtained from climatological data and were grouped into six categories covering a range of temperatures from<−17.8°C (0°F) to 16.1°C (61°F). The number of deaths in each category was tabulated. The effect of temperature, sex, and age were analyzed by regression analysis. The results indicated a linear increase in mortality as mean daily temperature decreased over the temperature range. The inverse temperature effect was most pronounced in males over the age of 60. These results indicate that cold temperatures appear to be associated with an increased mortality from myocardial infarction.
Proton spectroscopy of 105Ag from the (3He, d) reaction

Abstract The 104 Pd( 3 He, d) 105 Ag reaction has been studied at a bombarding energy of 33.3 MeV. Angular distributions were taken for the emergent deuterons from 2.5° to 55° with a typical resolution of 25 keV. Orbital angular momentum transfers and spectroscopic factors were deduced from comparisons with DWBA calculations. Only the ground state and 54 keV state were found to be suitable candidates for quasirotational bandheads. The level structure of 105 Ag, 107 Ag, and 109 Ag as seen with the ( 3 He, d) reaction are compared.
Changes in the mammary gland of the albino rat (Mus norvegicus albinus) during lactation and involution

University of Minnesota Masters thesis. May 1921. Major: Anatomy. Advisor: Dr. C. M. Jackson, Dr. E. T. Bell, Dr. J. A. Myers. 1 computer file (PDF); 40 pages.
Time series forecasting by combining RBF networks, certainty factors, and the Box-Jenkins model

Abstract A method is described for using Radial Basis Function (RBF) neural networks to generate certainty factors along with normal output. When RBF output with low certainty factors values are discarded, the overall accuracy of the network is increased. In this paper, RBF networks are used in a time series application. The RBF neural networks are trained to generate both time series forecasts and certainty factors. Their output is then combined with the Univariant Box-Jenkins (UBJ) models to predict future values of data. This combination approach is shown to improve the overall reliability of time series forecasting. Three possible methods for combining the two forecasts into one hybrid forecast are discussed.
Potential Role of Insulinlike Growth Factors in Fracture Healing

Several lines of evidence suggest that the insulinlike growth factors play a role in fracture healing. They promote cell proliferation and matrix synthesis by chondrocytes and osteoblasts, the two cell types largely responsible for the formation of fracture callus. Circulating levels of insulinlike growth factor I and bone mineral density decrease with increasing age, and administration of insulinlike growth factor I increases bone turnover in patients with low bone mineral density. Insulinlike growth factor I may accelerate the normal healing of intramembranous bone defects, inducing the healing of defects that otherwise would not heal. An important role of insulinlike growth factor I is to mediate many of the actions of growth hormone on the skeleton. Considerable effort has been devoted to testing the effect of growth hormone and, thereby, indirectly that of insulinlike growth factor I on fracture healing. These studies have yielded such disparate results that no general conclusions regarding the effect of growth hormone (or of growth hormone dependent insulinlike growth factor I) on fracture healing currently can be drawn. Additional studies are needed to clarify the role of the insulinlike growth factors in the fracture healing process and to determine how their anabolic actions can be enlisted in the clinical enhancement of fracture healing.
Preventing hunger: Change economic policy

Simply giving people food is not enough to prevent famine, says Peter Rosset. Instead, we need to overhaul the policies that have upended the food supply.
Angiotensin receptor subtype mediated physiologies and behaviors: new discoveries and clinical targets.

The renin–angiotensin system (RAS) mediates several classic physiologies including body water and electrolyte homeostasis, blood pressure, cyclicity of reproductive hormones and sexual behaviors, and the regulation of pituitary gland hormones. These functions appear to be mediated by the angiotensin II (AngII)/AT1 receptor subtype system. More recently, the angiotensin IV (AngIV)/AT4 receptor subtype system has been implicated in cognitive processing, cerebroprotection, local blood flow, stress, anxiety and depression. There is accumulating evidence to suggest an inhibitory influence by AngII acting at the AT1 subtype, and a facilitory role by AngIV acting at the AT4 subtype, on neuronal firing rate, long-term potentiation, associative and spatial learning, and memory. This review initially describes the biochemical pathways that permit synthesis and degradation of active angiotensin peptides and three receptor subtypes (AT1, AT2 and AT4) thus far characterized. There is vigorous debate concerning the identity of the most recently discovered receptor subtype, AT4. Descriptions of classic and novel physiologies and behaviors controlled by the RAS are presented. This review concludes with a consideration of the emerging therapeutic applications suggested by these newly discovered functions of the RAS.
The role of liver biopsy in the evaluation of liver test abnormalities.

Abstract Percutaneous liver biopsy, first performed by Paul Ehrlich in 1883, remains an important diagnostic procedure for the management of hepatobiliary disorders. Modern biochemical, immunologic, and radiographic techniques have facilitated the diagnosis of liver disease but have not made biopsy obsolete. Indeed, examination of liver histology remains the “gold standard” for many diagnoses. This article reviews current indications for liver biopsy and the role biopsy plays in managing a variety of disorders.
Research and Evaluation of Organic Hazardous Air Pollutant Source Emission Test Methods.

Title III of the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 has increased the need for well defined and tested stationary source emission sampling and analysis methods. The Methods Branch of the Air Measurements Research Division of U.S. EPA's Office of Research and Development is responsible for a major methods development and evaluation program intended to help fill that need. This paper summarizes recent developments from several of the component projects of that program. Primary emphasis is placed on status and references for methods for organic hazardous air pollutants, such as phosgene, methanol, chloroform, acetonitrile, isocyanates, aldehydes, halogenated organics, non-halogenated organics, and volatile organic material.
Splitting of the Proton Form Factors and Diffraction in the Proton

Separate proton form factors were obtained from electron scattering studies by choosing a pair of experimentally measured cross sections at the same value for the square of the momentum transfer but at different values of electron energy and scattering angle. The proton form factors obtained were plotted against the square of the momentum transfer. The new F/sub 2/ indicated that the Pauli magnetic moment cloud is a spread-out distribution. The constancy of F, however, suggested that the Dirac electric/magnetic cloud has a small, perhaps point-like, core. (M.C.G.)
The phosphorylation network for efficient activation of the DNA replication checkpoint in fission yeast.

Protein phosphorylation is the hallmark of checkpoint activation. Hundreds of targets of checkpoint kinases have been identified recently by genome-wide investigations. However, the complete picture of a phosphorylation network required for activation of a checkpoint pathway has not been available. The DNA replication checkpoint in Schizosaccharomyces pombe contains two major protein kinases, the sensor kinase Rad3 and the effector kinase Cds1, with the latter mediating most of the checkpoint functions. We show here that when DNA replication is arrested, efficient activation of Cds1 requires five phosphorylations that cooperate in a parallel or a sequential manner. Phosphorylation of a threonine residue (Thr11) in Cds1 by Rad3 occurs at a basal level in the absence of three other parallel Rad3-dependent phosphorylations on the mediator Mrc1 and Rad9 in the checkpoint clamp complex. However, the three parallel Rad3-dependent phosphorylations are all required for efficient phosphorylation of Thr11 in Cds1 by Rad3. Phosphorylation of Thr11 has been shown previously to promote autophosphorylation of Thr328 in the kinase domain of Cds1, which directly activates the enzyme, leading to full activation of the checkpoint pathway. Interestingly, phosphorylation of Mrc1 by Rad3 does not require the phosphorylation of Rad9, suggesting that activation of the sensor kinase Rad3 in the replication checkpoint of fission yeast may involve a different mechanism.