cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Medullary Thymic Epithelium: A Mosaic of Epithelial “Self”?

The thymus is organized into discrete subcapsular, cortical, and medullary environments that have been defined by the distribution of morphologically and phenotypically distinct populations of epithelial cells and other stromal cell constituents (([1][1])–([5][2])). T cell progenitor cells
Recent Research Involving the Transfer of Radionuclides to Milk

The radionuclides in milk, which result from exposure of dairy cows to radioactive fallout, are a major factor in assessment of internal radiation of humans. To evaluate the radionuclide intake of people from fallout-contaminated milk requires information about feed sources and milk distribution. Pasture intake and the shelf-life of milk are important factors in the case of a short-lived radionuclide like 131I. Large-scale human radiation assessment studies are underway, all of which consider the dairy food chain as a critical component. These include retrospective studies of fallout from nuclear weapons testing at the Nevada site in the 1950s and the impact of the Chernobyl accident on April 26, 1986.
The Relative Radiosensitivity of Bacteriophages S13 and T2.

Abstract P32-labeled S13 bacteriophages are inactivated by decay of their incorporated radioactive atoms at 1 7.8 the rate of death of equally radioactive T2 bacteriophages. The ratio of the sensitivities to X-rays of these two bacteriophage strains is the same as that of their sensitivities to P32 decay. If it is assumed that in S13, as in T2 and other bacteriophage strains previously studied, only one out of every ten P32 disintegrations kills the phage particle in which it occurs, one may estimate on the basis of these results that S13 contains 3.0 × 10−17 g of nucleic acid per particle. It is possible, however, that S13 is intrinsically much more radiosensitive than other bacteriophages, and a lower limit of the nucleic acid content of 3.0 × 10−18 g per S13 particle can be estimated and would obtain if every P32 disintegration is lethal.
Comparative Endothelial Cell Response on Topographically Patterned Titanium and Silicon Substrates with Micrometer to Sub-Micrometer Feature Sizes

In this work, we evaluate the in vitro response of endothelial cells (EC) to variation in precisely-defined, micrometer to sub-micrometer scale topography on two different substrate materials, titanium (Ti) and silicon (Si). Both substrates possess identically-patterned surfaces composed of microfabricated, groove-based gratings with groove widths ranging from 0.5 to 50 µm, grating pitch twice the groove width, and groove depth of 1.3 µm. These specific materials are chosen due to their relevance for implantable microdevice applications, while grating-based patterns are chosen for the potential they afford for inducing elongated and aligned cellular morphologies reminiscent of the native endothelium. Using EA926 cells, a human EC variant, we show significant improvement in cellular adhesion, proliferation, morphology, and function with decreasing feature size on patterned Ti substrates. Moreover, we show similar trending on patterned Si substrates, albeit to a lesser extent than on comparably patterned Ti substrates. Collectively, these results suggest promise for sub-micrometer topographic patterning in general, and sub-micrometer patterning of Ti specifically, as a means for enhancing endothelialization and neovascularisation for novel implantable microdevice applications.
Productivity Growth in Latin America: The Limits of Neoliberal Reforms

Abstract This paper explores some of the main elements behind poor productivity performance in Latin America under neoliberal reforms. I argue that free market reforms addressed only some of the elements shaping productivity growth, while neglecting others that are complementary and necessary for increases in productivity. A means comparison of different indicators for Latin America and a comparison income group shows that Latin American countries demonstrate, on average, poorer performance in technological capabilities, secondary enrollment rates and infrastructure. More activist government policies need to address these issues, if productivity is to rise in the future.
Embryonic chick intestine in organ culture: Stimulation of calcium transport by exogenous vitamin D-induced calcium-binding protein

Abstract Vitamin D 3 or a potent metabolite, 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol, induces calcium-binding protein (CaBP) synthesis and stimulates transmucosal calcium transport in embryonic chick duodena maintained in novel organ culture apparatus. When added to the sterol-free culture medium, highly purified chick intestinal CaBP, similarly and specifically, stimulates calcium transport in the cultured duodena. These results clearly demonstrate the involvement of CaBP in intestinal calcium transport.
Community College Student Success Inventory (CCSSI) for Men of Color in Community Colleges: Content Validation Summary

This study reports on the content validation of the Community College Student Success Inventory (CCSSI) for Men of Color. The CCSSI was designed to be used by community colleges to assess their effectiveness in addressing success outcomes for men who have been historically underrepresented and underserved in education, particularly men of color. A panel of subject matter experts (SMEs) rated the instrument and provided qualitative feedback on additional areas for consideration. Content validity index (CVI) and scale level index scores (S-CVI) are reported. The instrument illustrated strong CVI and S-CVI scores. SMEs suggested several additional areas for consideration that were added to the CCSSI. The instrument is recommended for use by community colleges interested in enhancing outcomes for men of color.
Zinc balance in combined zinc deficiency and uremia.

Zinc balance in combined zinc deficiency and uremia. In order to evaluate whether the hypozincemia associated with chronic renal failure represents true negative zinc balance, male Lewis rats were randomized and pair-fed zinc replete (+Zn) or deplete (-Zn) diets. Subsequently, each animal underwent one- and two-thirds nephrectomy, or a sham operation. Complete balances for zinc, calcium, and magnesium were determined weekly before and after nephrectomy. At sacrifice, -Zn animals had significantly lower (P
Effects of α-methyl-para-tyrosine (AMPT) in drug-free depressed patients

A variety of biologic studies have demonstrated abnormal regulation of the norepinephrine (NE) system in patients with major depression, suggesting a role for NE in the etiology of depression. Brain NE and dopamine levels can be rapidly reduced by blocking synthesis with the tyrosine hydroxylase inhibitor alpha-methyl-para-tyrosine (AMPT). In the current investigation, AMPT was administered to drug-free depressed patients to evaluate the effect on mood of diminished catecholamine levels. Seventeen drug-free patients meeting DSM-III-R criteria for major depressive episode were tested with AMPT and an active placebo control, diphenhydramine. Testing was accomplished in a double-blind, crossover fashion, with random assignment to test conditions. Each test included baseline evaluation, 2 days with administration of either AMPT or diphenhydramine, and a follow-up day. Diphenhydramine was used as an active control because of the significant sedation associated with AMPT. Behavioral ratings, including visual analogue scales for a variety of feeling states, the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), and plasma for 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenelethyleneglycol (MPHG) and homovanillic acid (HVA) levels, were obtained. AMPT significantly reduced plasma HVA by 70% and MHPG by 50%, but it had no significant effects on the HDRS. AMPT also significantly increased visual analogue ratings of "tired" and decreased ratings of "energetic." Diphenhydramine significantly decreased HDRS scores, but the change was small and was not clinically apparent. The lack of AMPT effects on depressed mood, in conjunction with a prior report that large reductions in plasma tryptophan do not systematically alter depressed mood, indicate that monoamine deficiency by itself is insufficient explanation of the cause of depression. The role of the noradrenergic system needs to be considered in relationship to the many other neurobiologic factors that could be involved in the pathophysiology of depression.
Bezold's abscess in the setting of radiation induced mastoiditis.

Osteoradionecrosis (ORN) is a serious complication of radiation therapy, which was first described by Ewing in 1926.(1) While ORN of the mandible has been commonly reported, any radiated bone has potential to be effected. While ORN of the temporal bone is a relatively rare and indolent disorder, it can have devastating sequelae. It typically presents with chronic otomastoiditis. This is, to the best of our knowledge, the first reported incidence of a Bezold’s abscess resulting from temporal bone ORN.
Flood dynamics of a concrete‐lined, urban stream in Kansas City, Missouri

Brush Creek drains a 76·1 km2 watershed within urban Kansas City, Missouri and eastern Kansas. A concrete-lined reach trending 6·1 km through the Plaza District of Kansas City, Missouri has been the focus for several major floods over the past ten years. Channel geometry, slope, and floodwater elevations were determined in the field for segments of the concrete-lined section of Brush Creek for a flood event that occurred on September 18, 1986. Discharge was computed by indirect methods and compared to a value determined from a rating curve established by the Water Resources Division of the U.S.G.S. Boundary shear stress, unit stream power, and average velocity were also computed in order to establish a quantitative relationship between sediment distribution, volume, and size fractions; and flow dynamics operating throughout the channel during this event. Boundary shear stress ranged from 91-96 Nm−2, stream power was 528-557 Wm−2, while average velocity was 5-8 ms−1. These values were sufficient to displace concrete slabs as large as 5 m long by 4·6 m wide by 0·23 m thick weighing an estimated 12 245 kg. As the channel was sediment free and unsecured prior to the flood, the distribution of deposits and subsequent channel scour provide valuable evidence for potentially hazardous sections of this urban stream.
Heats of formation of 3d and 4d transition metal hydrides

Abstract One electron energy spectra are used to explain the heats of formation of stoichiometric transition metal hydrides across the 3 d and 4 d rows. The trends agree reasonably with existing experimental information. The magnitudes are predominantly (but not exclusively) determined by the formation of a metal-H bonding band. In contrast to the screened proton model, the result is not directly related to the Fermi level density of states.
Disciplinary Literacy From the Perspective of One Beginning Social Studies Teacher Candidate

The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) have increased expectations for stakeholders (students, teachers, teacher educators) to gain knowledge, skills, and dispositions related to discipline-specific ways of reading and writing. Despite the increased rigor, implementation of disciplinary literacy practices varies widely by content, grade level, and individual context. In order to better address the disciplinary literacy challenge, teacher education programs must reconsider traditional preparation of middle and secondary teacher candidates. In part, this shift requires a de-emphasis on the teaching of generic application of literacy strategies across content areas. In tandem with, or in place of the general application approach, disciplinary literacy holds potential for meeting the demands of the CCSS. The purpose of this research was to examine developing understandings of disciplinary literacy from the perspective of one beginning teacher candidate enrolled in a secondary literacy course with an embedded ...
Behavior of Urania–Rare‐Earth Oxides at High Temperatures

Uranium dioxide becomes hypostoichiometric when hated above 1600°C or in a reducing atmosphere. Upon cooling, free metallic uranium is rejected. The role and the effect of rare-earth oxide additives on the stabilization of urania at high temperatures in a hydrogen environment are evaluated. A tentative phase diagram for the system uraniagadolinia is proposed.
Temperature-dependent actinomycin D effect on RNA synthesis during synchronous development in Neurospora crassa.

Actinomycin D at a concentration of 5 μg/ml of medium inhibited DNA-dependent RNA synthesis by 92% at 35 C, 42% at 30 C, and 28% at 25 C in Neurospora crassa. This concentration also inhibited the development of conidiophores and conidia at 35 C, but not at 30 or 25 C. Mycelia which were induced to synchronous development formed conidiophores in 2.5 hr and conidia in 4.5 hr at 35 C in the absence of drug additives. Addition of actinomycin D to synchronously developing mycelia at zero time and at 0.5-hr intervals thereafter at 35 C indicated that RNA synthesis required for conidiophores occurred before 0.5 hr and for conidia before 2 hr. Addition of cycloheximide at the same times to another synchronous mycelial series at 35 C indicated that protein synthesis required for conidiophores occurred before 2 hr and for conidia before 3.5–4 hr.
Diversity combining for long-range acoustic communication in deep water

A recent experiment showed that coherent long-range acoustic communication is feasible in deep water over a ∼550 km range between a source towed slowly at ∼75 m depth and a horizontal line array towed at 3.5 knots at ∼200 m depth. This letter further demonstrates that diversity combining mitigates channel fading and increases the output signal-to-noise ratio. Using sparse channel-estimate-based equalization, three transmissions are combined successfully to decode a 40 Hz bandwidth (230–270 Hz) 8 phase-shift-keying communication signal, achieving an effective data rate of 17 bits/s at ∼550 km range.
Group and site differences on the California Verbal Learning Test in persons with schizophrenia and their first-degree relatives: Findings from the Consortium on the Genetics of Schizophrenia (COGS)

Genetic studies of schizophrenia focus increasingly on putative endophenotypes because their genetic etiology may be simpler than clinical diagnosis. The Consortium on the Genetics of Schizophrenia (COGS), a multisite family study, aims to identify the genetic basis of several endophenotypes including verbal declarative memory (VDM), a neurocognitive function that shows robust impairment in schizophrenia. We present data on one type of measure of VDM, the California Verbal Learning Test, Second Edition (CVLT-II), in schizophrenia probands (n=305), their full biological siblings (n=449) and parents (n=232), and in community comparison subjects (CCS; n=509) across seven sites. Probands performed more poorly on each of five CVLT-II measures compared to related sibling and parent groups and CCS. Siblings and parents performed significantly worse than CCS on one measure (Discriminability), but with smaller effect sizes and less impairment than observed previously. The results raise questions about the homogeneity of VDM as an endophenotype, about methodological issues related to sampling, and about psychometric issues that impact the utility of the CVLT for detecting VDM deficits in nonpsychotic relatives of persons with schizophrenia.
MOLECULAR CLONING OF THE GENE FOR THE HUMAN PROSTAGLANDIN TRANSPORTER HPGT: GENE ORGANIZATION, PROMOTER ACTIVITY, AND CHROMOSOMAL LOCALIZATION

Abstract Prostaglandins (PGs) play diverse and important roles in human health and disease. We recently identified the first known PG transporter cDNA in the rat (PGT) and human (hPGT). To aid in the analysis of any possible human disease caused by mutations in PGT, we have cloned and characterized the hPGT gene. The gene exists as a single copy in the human genome and is comprised of 14 exons distributed over ∼95 kb. Two introns disrupt putative trans-membrane spans of the coding region; each of these sites is near a highly conserved charged residue. The ∼250 bp immediately 5′ to the start of exon 1 contain a TATAAA sequence (TATA box), a transcription initiation (Inr) consensus (CTCANTCT), two Sp 1 sequences (GGGCGG), and a cAMP response element (CGGCGTCA). Ligation of ∼3.5 kb of 5′ flanking sequence to a luciferase reporter yielded >15-fold activity above background when expressed in A549 human lung epithelial cells. PCR-based monochromosomal somatic cell hybrid mapping and fluorescence in situ hybridization localized hPGT to chromosome 3q21. Three microsatellites were identified, one of which was demonstrated to be polymorphic in unrelated individuals and may be useful in evaluating PGT as a candidate gene in human disease.
‘Greening’ Up the Library

This paper looks at the library's ability to spread environmental conservation efforts throughout the community. The paper suggests various ways library staff can explore environmentally friendly procedures within the context of the media center as well as ways to promote community interest and support. It identifies areas for improvement, ideas for change, resources, and examples of libraries practicing environmental awareness. It also discusses environmental audits and environmentally friendly building procedures.
STUDIES IN WOOD DECAY : II. ENZYME ACTION IN POLYPORUS VOLVATUS PECK AND FOMES IGNIARIUS (L.) GILLET.

Circumstantial evidence is presented which indicates that Polyporus volvatus is parasitic. Cultures of Polyporus volvatus and Fomes igniarius may be obtained from the young sporophores by the tissue method. In Polyporus volvatus the presence of the following enzymes was demonstrated: esterase, maltase, lactase, sucrase, raffinase, diastase, inulase, cellulase, hemicellulase, glucosidase, rennet, and catalase. In Fomes igniarius the presence of the following enzymes was demonstrated: esterase, maltase, lactase, sucrase, raffinase, diastase, inulase, cellulase, hemicellulase, glucosidase, urease, rennet, and catalase.
Clubbing Due to Peripheral Hypervascularization: Recognition by Contrast-Enhanced, Three-Dimensional Magnetic Resonance Angiography

To the Editor: The magnetic resonance angiogram of the left hand shown by Wiesmann et al1 is an incomplete display of the arteries that is further confounded by venous contamination. From this image, one cannot conclude that “there is no evidence of vasculitis or arterial stenosis or occlusion.” Spatial resolution of a fraction of a millimeter is required to diagnose vasculitis in the hand. …
Evaluation of diploid potato clones for resistance to tuber soft rot induced by strains of Erwinia carotovora subsp. atroseptica, E. carotovora subsp. carotovora and E. chrysanthemi.

Tubers of clones from a diploid hybrid population ofSolanum phureja andS. stenotomum were screened for resistance to tuber soft rot caused by strains ofErwinia carotovora subsp.atroseptica (Eca),E. carotovora subsp.carotovora (Ecc) andE. chrysanthemi (Ech). Significant, positive correlations between resistance to the different strains and species were observed, indicating that screening for resistance to tuber soft rot could be accomplished by using just one of the three pathogens. Strains of Ecc and Ech were found to be much more virulent than strains of Eca. Inoculating with Ecc and Ech resulted in more distinct differences among susceptible, moderately resistant and resistant clones than inoculating with Eca.
Instituting a Risk Engine in Cognitive Radio

The future of wireless spectrum utilization centers on one key fact and a resulting assumption. Usable spectrum is finite and current methods are not postured to satisfy the growing demand of use. Most other aspects of this problem space are simply unknowns. To address such a challenge and progress towards a radio that has near-term development and deployment potential, this paper proposes implementation of a cognitive engine purposed for risk management - the standard method for addressing uncertainty.
Simultaneous Sensor and Process Fault Detection and Isolation in Multiple-Input–Multiple-Output Systems

Dependable sensor data are vital in complex systems, which rely on a suite of sensors for control as well as condition monitoring. With any unanticipated deviations in sensor values, the challenge is to determine if the anomalies are the result of one or more flawed sensors or if it is indicative of a potentially more serious system-level fault. This paper describes a methodology using Bayesian networks to distinguish between sensor and process faults as well as faults involving multiple sensors or processes. A review of existing methodologies is presented first, followed by a description of the sensor/process fault detection and isolation (SPFDI) algorithm, its limitations and corresponding mitigating strategies. Discussions are also provided on the potential for false alarms and real-time updates of the system model based on validated sensor data. Factors that affect the algorithm such as the effect of network structure, sensor characteristics, effect of discretization, etc., are discussed. This is followed by details of implementation of the algorithm on an electromechanical actuator (EMA) test bed.
M/L- AND L/K-ORBITAL ELECTRON-CAPTURE RATIOS AND TRANSTITION ENERGY IN 109- Cd DECAY

A direct measurement of the $\frac{M}{L}$- and $\frac{L}{K}$-orbital electron-capture ratios in the decay of ${\mathrm{Cd}}^{109}$ was carried out by using a gaseous radioactive source of ${\mathrm{Cd}}^{109}$ ${(\mathrm{C}{\mathrm{H}}_{3})}_{2}$ in a multiwire proportional counter with internal anticoincidence. The experiments yielded the following values of the orbital electron-capture probability ratios: $\frac{{P}_{M}}{{P}_{L}}=0.232\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.020$, $\frac{{P}_{L+M+\ensuremath{\cdots}}}{{P}_{K}}=0.332\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.015$, and $\frac{{P}_{L}}{{P}_{K}}=0.237\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.015$. From the $\frac{{P}_{L}}{{P}_{K}}$ value, the transition energy for capture to the 88-keV ($\frac{7}{2}+$) state in ${\mathrm{Ag}}^{109}$ was found to be ${Q}_{\mathrm{EC}}={{80}_{\ensuremath{-}3}}^{+7}$ keV by application of the theory. The experimental $\frac{M}{L}$-capture ratio is in excellent agreement with the exchange-corrected theoretical result extrapolated from Bahcall (0.230) and with the theoretical results of Robinson.
Elevation and clearance of extracellular K+ following contusion of the rat spinal cord.

Abstract The elevation and clearance of extracellular potassium following a standard contusion injury was studied in the thoracic spinal cord of rats.7 Animals were anesthetized, paralyzed, laminectomized at T 9 −T 11 , then artificially ventilated. A 10-g rod was released 5.0 cm above the cord with the dura intact. After impact, the dura-arachnoid and pial membranes were incised to allow penetration of K + -selective microelectrodes. Electrodes utilized a valinomycin ionophore and were double-barreled, with tip diameters of 3–5 μm. Extracellular potassium activity ([K + ] 0 ) increased with the depth of penetration. The maximum values of [K + ] 0 occurred at depths greater than 500 μm, and remained so with time after injury. These data indicate that a dorsal-ventral gradient of [K + ] 0 develops in spinal cords contused from the dorsal surface, with the greatest elevation of [K + ] 0 in the gray matter. In 8 preparations, the maximum [K + ] 0 was 65±8mM(mean ± S.F.M.) at 5±1 min after injury. The [K + ] 0 peak values decayed with a half-time of 11.0±3.4 min. Compared with data available for the injured cat spinal cord, the peak [K + ] 0 recovered relatively rapidly. Although a simple diffusion model could account for the rapid clearance of [K + ] 0 , the persistance of dorsal-ventral [K + ] 0 gradients could not be explained by such a model. It is postulated that secondary injury processes contributed to the persistent [K + ] 0 gradients.
Social and psychological origins of media use: A lifestyle analysis

This study examined how social and psychological factors, Including the need for activation, interact to produce different lifestyles and patterns of media use. The research identified four lifestyle types whose members differed significantly on a broad range of variables, including newspaper and newsmagazine readership, and gratifications sought from cable television. Persons with a high need for activation had lifestyles involving greater exposure to media sources of public affairs information than those with a lower need for activation and less cosmopolitan lifestyles. Results suggest that the roots of media use are far deeper than previously believed.
Experimental activities that intentionally perturb the marine environment: Implications for the marine environmental protection and marine scientific research provisions of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea

Abstract The global community's ability to assess the environmental effects of marine scientific research (MSR) as required by the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea's (UNCLOS) marine environment provisions (MEP) is limited, as shown by experimental activities that intentionally manipulate the marine environment. Such work enhances knowledge of the ocean, but it may also have significant environmental effects. This growing use of the ocean as a laboratory has global scientific, environmental, legal and policy implications. Examined here is the relationship between the MSR and the MEP provisions of UNCLOS. International, science-driven guidelines are proposed.
Slow atrioventricular nodal reentrant arrhythmias: clinical recognition, electrophysiological characteristics, and response to radiofrequency ablation.

BACKGROUND Atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT) is a common form of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). Rarely, patients may present with an unusual form of atrioventricular nodal reentrant arrhythmia (AVNRA) with a cycle length greater than 600 ms. We describe the clinical presentation, electrophysiology characteristics, and response to radiofrequency ablation in a group of patients with AVNRA. METHODS AND RESULTS Six patients with slow documented sustained supraventricular arrhythmias at rates <100 bpm underwent electrophysiology study. Baseline clinical and electrophysiologic characteristics were: mean age 77 +/- 5 years; left ventricular ejection fraction 51 +/- 10%; hypertension 66%; diabetes mellitus 33%; coronary artery disease 33%; sinus cycle length 874 +/- 110 ms; PR 261 +/- 54 ms; atrial to His (AH) 181 +/- 49 ms. AVNRA was diagnosed based on previously described criteria for AVNRT. Mean tachycardia cycle length (TCL) during AVNRA was 668 +/- 74 ms. The AH and His to atrial (HA) intervals during the AVNRA was 434 +/- 50 and 234 +/- 81 ms, respectively. Two patients had slow-fast AVNRA while the others had slow-slow AVNRA. Most common symptoms reported during AVNRA were shortness of breath, fullness in the throat, chest tightness, dizziness, near-syncope, and syncope. Radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) of the slow pathway was performed successfully in five of six patients. Post-ablation AV nodal Wenckebach occurred at 666 +/- 49 ms compared with 521 +/- 91 ms at baseline. CONCLUSION AVNRA may occur at rates less than 100 bpm in the elderly and may be misdiagnosed as junctional rhythm. Slow AVNRA can cause significant symptoms. Slow pathway ablation can be successfully performed in AVNRA.
Potentiometer for Studying the Liquid He II Film

A simple level-sensing device is described for probing the profile of the chemical potential along the flowing liquid He II film. Measurements with these probes indicate that dissipation in the flowing film may occur either at highly localized regions or over extended regions of the flow path, depending upon experimental variations. Also it is shown that changes in transfer rate occurring during a given flow process are accompanied by a redistribution of the sites producing dissipation.
Spectral properties of operators arising in acoustic wave propagation in an ocean of variable depth

We prove ann-dimensional version of the following theorem: Letu(x, y) be a solution to $$c^2 (y)\rho (y)\left( {\frac{1}{{\rho (y)}}u_y } \right)_y + c^2 (y)u_{xx} + k^2 u = 0 (k > 0)$$ in Ωź{y>0}źB, continuous in $$\bar \Omega $$ ,B being a disc centered at the origin, andź(y) andc(y) being strictly positive functions constant outside of a bounded set,C(2) except for a finite number of jumps. Then ifu(x,0)ź0 exponentially as |x|źź anduźL2(Ω),uź0 in Ω.
Paraneoplastic Diseases of the Nervous System.

Several neurologic paraneoplastic disorders are believed to be caused by an autoimmune reaction against an antigen or antigens coexpressed by tumor cells and neurons. Of the paraneoplastic syndromes, the Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS)—in which autoantibodies downregulate voltage-gated calcium channels at the presynaptic nerve terminal—is associated with the strongest evidence of an autoimmune cause. For the other syndromes, including cerebellar degeneration, multifocal encephalomyelitis, sensory neuronopathy, limbic encephalitis, opsoclonus-myoclonus, and retinal degeneration, an autoimmune cause is indicated by the presence of specific antineuronal antibodies. These antibodies serve as a useful diagnostic tool, but their actual role in causing neuronal injury and clinical disease remains unclear. A small percentage of patients with paraneoplastic disorders shows major neurologic improvement after successful treatment of the associated tumor. Of patients who require further therapy for the neurologic disorder, those with LEMS have the best outcome. The response to immunosuppression among patients with paraneoplastic central nervous system (CNS) dysfunction is much less favorable. Although exceptions clearly exist, most patients with CNS paraneoplastic disorders do not improve despite tumor treatment and immunosuppressive therapy. It is likely that many patients already have irreversibl neuronal injury at the time of diagnosis. The decision to attempt immunosuppressive treatment must be made on an individual basis.
Growth, survival and fillet composition of paddlefish, Polyodon spathula (Walbaum) fed commercial trout or catfish feeds

Paddlefish are gaining increasing acceptance as an aquaculture species worldwide. Commercial trout feeds, containing high protein and lipid levels, are currently used in intensive culture; however, nutritional requirements of paddlefish are not currently known. A study was conducted examining the effects on growth, survival and fillet composition of juvenile paddlefish when fed commercial feeds differing in protein and lipid levels. Paddlefish larvae were first stocked in 14.0 m3 round tanks and fed trout starter feeds for 43 days until trained to accept a 1.6 mm pellet. Paddlefish juveniles of mean weight (±SE) 20±0.27 g were randomly stocked into six0.02 ha ponds at 12 500 ha−1 and fed floating commercial trout or catfish (lower protein and lipid) feeds, twice daily (08:00 and 15:30 hours) for 92–97 days. At harvest, there were no significant differences in final weight, percent survival, specific growth rate , relative growth and feed conversion ratio between treatments, which averaged 223.6 g, 96.2%, 2.5% day−1, 10.2 and 1.98 respectively. Surface feeding activity index was significantly higher in ponds supplied with catfish feed than in ponds supplied with trout feeds. Relative pellet buoyancy was not a factor in feeding activity. Fulton's condition factor averaged0.238, was not significantly different, and was similar to a reported value for extensively cultured paddlefish (zooplanktivore). There was no significant difference in liver somatic index between treatments, which averaged 1.91%. Percent protein and moisture of fillets averaged 14.9% and 80.9%, respectively, and were not significantly different between treatments. However, lipid content of fillets was significantly higher in paddlefish fed the trout feed (4.45%), compared with paddlefish fed the catfish feed (2.42%). Fillet lipid content for both treatments was higher than reported values for extensively cultured paddlefish. Percent abdominal fat was significantly higher (0.82%) in paddlefish fed the trout feed compared with paddlefish fed the catfish feed (0.52%). Results from this study indicate that paddlefish can be fed a commercial catfish feed labeled to contain 32% protein and 4.5% lipid without adverse effects on growth, survival and fillet composition, lowering production costs.
Performance of a mini-TPC

A mini-TPC has been built and tested with four rows of pads. The active area is 8 cm along the pad rows and 4 cm in the drift direction. Readout consists of preamp-amp-shaper-discriminator and pipeline TDC. The pulse length from the pulse over threshold discriminator is used to reflect the induced charge in the pads. The resolution obtained is 235 μm along the pad row and 75 μm × √Ldrift(cm) in the drift direction. The two track resolution is roughly 3 mm in the drift direction and 5 mm along the pad row, so that the active area has effectively 200 cells.
Novel localization of CD38 in perivascular sympathetic nerve terminals

Using high performance liquid chromatography fraction analysis we have recently established that numerous smooth muscle preparations, including the canine mesenteric artery and vein, release beta-nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide upon short-pulse electrical field stimulation in tetrodotoxin- and omega-conotoxin GVIA-sensitive manners [ Release of beta-nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide upon stimulation of postganglionic nerve terminals in blood vessels and urinary bladder. J Biol Chem 279:48893-48903.]. The beta-nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide metabolites ADP-ribose and cyclic ADP-ribose are also present in the tissue superfusates. CD38 is a multifunctional enzyme involved in the degradation of beta-nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide to ADP-ribose and cyclic ADP-ribose. Western immunoblot analysis revealed that CD38 is expressed in both artery and vein. Confocal laser scanning microscopy established colocalization of CD38 with tyrosine hydroxylase, synaptotagmin and synaptic vesicle protein in both blood vessels. High performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection demonstrated that whole tissue segments metabolize 1,N(6)-etheno-nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide to 1,N(6)-etheno-ADP-ribose and nicotinamide-guanine dinucleotide to cyclic GDP-ribose, suggesting the presence of both nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide-glycohydrolase and ADP-ribosyl cyclase activities in these blood vessels. Both enzymes appear to be associated with the membrane fraction, and therefore might be attributed to CD38. These data demonstrate a previously uncharacterized localization of CD38 in perivascular autonomic nerve terminals. Therefore, the beta-nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide/CD38 system may provide new mechanisms in autonomic neurovascular control.
Theories of change and outcomes in home-based Early Head Start programs

Abstract Programs to promote children's early development are based on a set of assumptions, explicit or implicit, about intended outcomes and how the program will effect change. The “theories of change” were examined in ten home-based programs in the Early Head Start Research and Evaluation Project (EHSREP), using data collected through multiple interviews with program staff. All home-based programs indicated that parenting outcomes were among their highest three priorities, while only 4 of 10 programs said that child outcomes were in their top priorities. The pattern of outcome differences between randomly-assigned program and control group participants reflected the programs’ theories of change in several ways. Early Head Start home-based programs showed positive impacts on 9 of 9 parenting outcomes, including parental supportiveness, home language and learning supports, emotional responsiveness, and family conflict when children were 24 months of age. Significant program impacts on child cognitive skills (Bayley MDI scores) and social behavior (observed child engagement of parent during play) were found when children were 36 months of age. Mediation analyses showed that the 54% of the program impact on 36-month child cognitive scores was mediated by 24-month program impacts on parental supportiveness, language and learning support, emotional responsiveness, and family conflict, and 47% of the program impact on 36-month child engagement of parent was mediated by 24-month impacts on parental supportiveness, language and cognitive stimulation, and emotional responsiveness. Results from mediation analyses were consistent with these home-based programs’ theories of change, supporting the efficacy of focusing on parent change as a mechanism for child outcomes in home visiting programs.
Probabilistic checking of associativity in algebras

Abstract We can easily decide, using O( n 5 ) arithmetic operations, if multiplication is associative in an n -dimensional algebra. We present two Monte Carlo algorithms that use only O( n 3 ) and O( n 4 ) operations respectively. Interestingly, one method can be used in a more general setting to efficiently solve the seemingly hard problem of testing whether an arbitrary algebra over Q satisfies an arbitrary multilinear identity.
Nutrient supply from fishes facilitates macroalgae and suppresses corals in a Caribbean coral reef ecosystem

On coral reefs, fishes can facilitate coral growth via nutrient excretion; however, as coral abundance declines, these nutrients may help facilitate increases in macroalgae. By combining surveys of reef communities with bioenergetics modeling, we showed that fish excretion supplied 25 times more nitrogen to forereefs in the Florida Keys, USA, than all other biotic and abiotic sources combined. One apparent result was a positive relationship between fish excretion and macroalgal cover on these reefs. Herbivore biomass also showed a negative relationship with macroalgal cover, suggesting strong interactions of top-down and bottom-up forcing. Nutrient supply by fishes also showed a negative correlation with juvenile coral density, likely mediated by competition between macroalgae and corals, suggesting that fish excretion may hinder coral recovery following large-scale coral loss. Thus, the impact of nutrient supply by fishes may be context-dependent and reinforce either coral-dominant or coral-depauperate reef communities depending on initial community states.
Estimating pattern similarity for correlation matrices from differing neuropsychiatric populations.

Summary.-The present example illustrates a method for assessing pattern similarity for correlation matrices from populations known to differ in clinjcally important respects. The data underlying previously published confirmatory factor analyses of neuropsychological traits are presented m two methods for assessing whether the matrices are similar enough to justi€y them aggregation into a single composite matrix. The significance of this procedure for research In applied neuropsych~log~ is commented upon in terms of the benefits to model diagnostics. A common problem in applied neuropsychological research is the availability of data from populations that are known to differ from each other in a number of clinically salient respects. The question is then posed whether these data (e.g., correlation matrices) can be aggregated (or "pooled") into a single composite matrix (Steyer & Schmitt, 1990). The challenges to this process involve, among other things, the intrinsic features of the data (urz., the pattern of the correlations, their Iwel, range, and multicollinearity) and the need to preserve (or enhance) the sensitivity and specificity of the trajr measures, thereby improving model diagnostics (Schwager, 1991).
A GENERAL APPROACH TO INDEXING AND RETRIEVAL OF IMAGES IN IMAGE DATABASES

In this paper we present a very general approach to indexing and retrieval of images in image database systems. We allow dierent ways of indexing and matching for objects in an image, and integrate them with our existing approach of the generalized extended pseudo-2D string and generalized combined 2D string representation of the image to formulate a more general framework for iconic indexing and retrieval of images. Image retrieval is then discussed, and the query processing of image retrieval consists of both matching of objects and matching of spatial relationships. This suggestion for general-purpose image database systems is particularly suitable for building huge, heterogeneous and distributed image databases. 1. Introduction. Image database systems have been very active over the past 20 years. With the explosive interest for the last 10 years in multimedia systems, content-based image retrieval has attracted the attention of researchers across sev- eral disciplines (7), including computer vision, pattern recognition, human-computer interaction, and image databases. Applications that use image databases include oce
The impact of hierarchy upon the values of neutrino mixing parameters

Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40506(Dated: May 26, 2010)A neutrino-oscillation analysis is performed of the more ﬁnely binned Super-K atmospheric, MI-NOS, and CHOOZ data in order to examine the impact of neutrino hierarchy in this data setupon the value of θ
Palytoxin: a new marine toxin from a coelenterate.

Palytoxin has been isolated from the zoanthids "limu-make-o-Hana" (Tentatively identified as Palythoa sp.) as a noncrystalline, chromatographically pure entity. Apart from polypeptide and protein toxins, it is the most highly toxic substance known, with a lethal dose (LD 59 ) in mice of 0.15 microgram per kilogram by intravenous injection. Unlike the potent toxins batrachotoxin, saxitoxin, and tetrodotoxin which have molecular weights of 500 or less, palytoxin has an estimated molecular weight of 3300 and contains no repetitive amino acid or sugar units.
Continuous nonfluoroscopic localization of the esophagus during radiofrequency catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation.

Introduction: Atrial-esophageal fistula formation is a dreaded complication of radiofrequency catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation. Esophageal localization is of potential value in avoiding lesion placement where the left atrium is juxtaposed to the esophagus. Methods and Results: Twenty-seven patients underwent 33 pulmonary vein encirclement procedures. All the patients received general anesthesia with inhalational agents and either a fenestrated laryngeal mask airway or an endotracheal tube. A diagnostic electrophysiologic catheter was inserted into the esophagus, and a virtual esophageal tube was created using an electroanatomic mapping system. In all cases, the catheter was placed without difficulty and satisfactory virtual esophageal images were created. The catheter remained in the esophagus until the end of each ablation procedure. Esophageal catheter location during and after the ablation was compared with the initial location. Areas of close proximity between the left atrium and esophagus were easily identified. Change in esophageal location was not observed. Identification of esophageal proximity to the pulmonary veins allowed for identification of high-risk cases. In such cases, the planned procedure was modified to avoid esophageal injury (12 of 27 patients). Conclusions: (1) Real-time localization of esophageal position using a nonfluoroscopic mapping system during atrial fibrillation ablation is safe, practical, and straightforward. (2) Among patients who receive general anesthesia, esophageal position appears to be static, suggesting that one initial virtual image is sufficient for the duration of an ablation procedure.
Ciguatera poisoning after ingestion of imported jellyfish: diagnostic application of serum immunoassay

Ciguatera fish poisoning is an important public health problem wherever humans consume tropical and subtropical fish. It accounts for over half of fish-related poisonings in the United States but is uncommonly diagnosed and underreported. Produced by dinoflagellates, ciguatoxin accumulates up the food chain in herbivorous and carnivorous fishes. Cnidaria (jellyfish and related invertebrates) have not previously been associated with direct ciguatera intoxication in humans. We report the first case of ciguatera fish poisoning associated with cnidarian ingestion. A 12-year-old Tongan female presented to our Emergency Department with mid-abdominal pain, nausea, change in mental status, and new-onset movement disorder after ingestion of jellyfish imported from American Samoa. Clinical diagnosis was confirmed by strongly positive serum identification of ciguatoxin and related polyether toxins (including okadaic acid) with a rapid extraction method (REM) and highly reliable solid-phase immunobead assay (S-PIA) performed by the Food Toxicology Research Group, University of Arizona. Ciguatera pathophysiology, clinical presentation, differential diagnosis (including consideration of palytoxin poisoning), and treatment are briefly reviewed. We emphasize the growing incidence of ciguatera fish poisoning outside "high-risk" areas. In regions with immigrant populations, privately imported exotic fish may be toxin vectors. Marine species other than carnivorous fish are now suspect in human ciguatera intoxication. Reliable tests can aid in premarket fish testing, diagnosis, and follow-up of ciguatera fish poisoning. The global prevalence of marine toxins demands fishermen, consumers, and physicians maintain a high index of suspicion for ciguatera fish poisoning.
The influence of voluntarily disclosed qualitative information

We examine the voluntary disclosure of qualitative information about actions involving governmental agencies and managerial intentions or beliefs in R&D project announcements in The Wall Street Journal. Our analysis indicates that information regarding government approval and managerial intentions/beliefs voluntarily disclosed in R&D project announcements interacts with industry/firm variables to provide significant incremental explanatory power in both the innovation and commercialization stages of R&D projects. Our data also indicate that the biggest impact is from managerial intentions, especially an intent to increase market share when coupled with being a larger firm. Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Calculation of theoretical yields in metabolic networks

Nature has created elaborate networks of reactions to convert substrates into the building blocks of living cells as well as a myriad of natural products. The biosynthetic pathways responsible for each metabolite produced have a certain material and energetic "cost" associated with them. The theoretical calculation of these costs aid in analyzing metabolic pathways and engineering metabolic changes in cells. Depending on the complexity and structure of the metabolic system under consideration, different approaches need to be taken for the calculations. In this article, a systematic method to calculate theoretical yields is described for simple linear and cyclic pathways. A published error in the theoretical cost calculations for photorespiration is corrected (J. N. Siedow and D.A. Day (2000) Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Plants, American Society of Plant Physiologists, Rockville, MD, pp. 676-726). A matrix-vector formulation of the stoichiometric pathways is presented for more complex systems.