cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Modelling Evaluation of Dam Removal in the Context of River Ecosystem Restoration

Applications of environmental models may provide imperative information to enable informed decision-making of river management actions, which are often made in the face of high system complexity and uncertainty. We applied Hydrologic Engineering Centers River Analysis System(HEC-RAS) and Curvilinear Hydrodynamics Three-Dimensional (CH3D) models to aid in the decision-making of the proposed removal of the Masten Dam, a small, ‘run-of-the-river’ dam on the Loxahatchee River, a federally designated ‘Wild and Scenic River’ in south-east coast of Florida (USA). Anthropogenic alteration of the system has led to changing hydroperiods and salinity regimes in the floodplain. Both models are calibrated against measured data taken at varying temporal and spatial scales. The HEC-RAS modelling results show that removal of the Masten Dam would lower water levels in the upstream riverine reach, leading to reduced soil moisture or inundation in the floodplain. The CH3D modelling results indicate that dam removal would increase river salinity during the dry season in the tidal reach where salinity compliance for environmental flow regulation is measured. These environmental changes would exert additional stress on freshwater vegetation communities in the floodplain. Given the scarcity of water resources in the region, removal of the Masten Dam would not offer an effective restoration strategy. This study demonstrates not only the need for evaluation of dam removal on a case-by-case basis but also the usefulness of environmental models in providing the technical basis for such management decisions. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Getting the Funding You Need to Support Your Research: Successfully Navigating the NIH Peer Review Process for Grants

New developments in biomedical technology have created more opportunities than ever before for clinical researchers and raised interest in new clinical and diagnostic approaches to many diseases. The purpose of this chapter is to provide an overview of the mission and organization of the NIH and the NIH peer review process, hints for writing more competitive grant applications, and brief descriptions of some of the many different types of NIH grants that are available for researchers at various stages of their careers. It also provides suggestions about how to find the most current information about the NIH grants process. Because of the magnitude, diversity, and complexity of its research mission and its pursuit of excellence, the NIH draws on the national pool of scientists actively engaged in research for assistance in evaluating the tens of thousands of grant applications that it receives annually. A thorough understanding of the peer review process that NIH uses to inform funding decisions will help both new and established investigators be more competitive in applying for research funds.
Evaluation of eleven newly acquired Asian elms for their suitability to adult elm leaf beetle (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae).

Abstract Eleven newly introduced Asian elm species and one reference species were evaluated in no-choice laboratory bioassays for their suitability to the adult elm leaf beetle, Xanthogaleruca (= Pyrrhalta) luteola Muller. Adult female beetles laid significantly more eggs on U. bergmanniana, U. bergmanniana var. lasiophylla, U. castaneifolia, U. gaussenii, U. lamellosa, and U. pumila, indicating these species were the most suitable for ELB. The least suitable species for adult beetle feeding and reproduction were U. chenmoui, U. elongata, U. glaucescens, U. propinqua, U. propinqua var. suberosa, and U. szechuanica. Adult female beetles laid eggs within 7–10 days, or 4 days earlier, on the most suitable elms compared with beetles feeding on the least suitable elms. Adult male and female longevity was significantly affected by host suitability with adult males and females living nearly twice as long on the most suitable elms compared to the less suitable elms. Least suitable species U. chenmoui, U. elongata...
Extracellular polysaccharide from the black yeast NRRL Y-6272: improved methods for preparing a high-viscosity, pigment-free product.

When the extracellular polysaccharide from the black yeast NRRL Y-6272, composed of two parts N-acetyl-D-glucosamine and one part N-acetyl-D-glucosaminuronic acid, is isolated at maximum culture viscosity, adhering black pigment gives the polysaccharide preparations a gray-to-black appearance. Precipitation of the polysaccharide from cell-free culture supernatants with either ethanol or hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide failed to remove the pigment. Various other methods were therefore tried for obtaining a high-viscosity polysaccharide product free of pigment. By systematically varying ingredients of defined and semidefined media, an improved medium was found that not only gave polysaccharide preparations of increased viscosity, but also increased yield. A key ingredient in this medium is L-asparagine. Also, adding autoclaved bovine serum albumin or egg albumin to this medium at the time of inoculation allowed a pigment-free polysaccharide to be isolated by standard procedures. None of several other proteins or synthetic polyamides tested were as effective as bovine serum albumin or egg albumin. In an alternate approach, pink mutants, obtained by irradiation of the parent black strain with ultraviolet light, apparently produce the same extracellular polysaccharide free of any pigment but in lower yields or inferior in quality.
Postoperative Seizure Outcomes in Patients with Intracerebral Cavernous Malformations (P2.101)

OBJECTIVE: We describe postoperative seizure outcomes in a cohort of surgically treated patients with supratentorial intracerebral cavernous malformations (sICMs) and seizures, and identify therapeutic predictors of postoperative seizure freedom. BACKGROUND: Seizures are the most common presenting symptom in patients with sICMs and frequently progress to medically refractory epilepsy. Eliminating the seizure burden in these patients can reduce disability and improve quality of life. DESIGN/METHODS: Patients with sICMs were identified from a radiographic database for cases seen between 1989 and 1999. Clinical and radiographic information was abstracted and prospective follow up was obtained. Postoperative seizure outcome was defined using the Engel classification scheme, with seizure freedom corresponding to Engel Class I. RESULTS: A total of 110 patients with seizures and a radiographic diagnosis of sICMs were identified, 49 (45%) of whom underwent surgical resection of an ICM. The surgical group had 303 patient-years of postoperative follow-up and 96% of patients had follow-up beyond 1 year. Of the surgical group, 32 patients (65%) had a lesionectomy, 19 (59%) of whom were seizure-free. Six patients (12%) had a temporal lobectomy, all of whom achieved seizure freedom. Seven patients (14%) had a temporal lobectomy with amygdalohippocampectomy, 3 (43%) of which were seizure-free. The remaining 4 patients had a combination of the above procedures. At time of last follow up, 75% patients did not have significant disability. Thirty-two patients (65%) in the surgical group achieved seizure freedom, 23 (47%) did not require antiepileptic therapy, and 5 (10%) required a single antiepileptic drug. Four patients (8%) underwent a second surgical procedure due to persistent seizures, none of whom had improvement in seizure outcome. CONCLUSIONS: Nearly two-thirds of patients who underwent surgical resection of an ICM achieved seizure freedom. Nearly half of the surgical cohort did not require long-term antiepileptic therapy. Temporal lobectomies were associated with the highest rate of seizure control. Study Supported by: Disclosure: Dr. Morparia has nothing to disclose. Dr. Shin has nothing to disclose. Dr. Brown has nothing to disclose. Dr. Christianson has nothing to disclose. Dr. Flemming has nothing to disclose.
Macromolecular complexes of aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases in Drosophila

Abstract Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases in Drosophila are present in large macromolecular aggregates having mol. wt in excess of 10 6 Daltons. After cellular fractionation these enzymes are found in the post-microsomal hard pellet, the post-microsomal soft pellet, and the post-microsomal supernatant fractions. The distribution of specific enzyme activities within these fractions varies and is dependent upon the specific tRNA synthetase being studied.
Water-source characterization and classification with fluorescence EEM spectroscopy: PARAFAC analysis

Water-quality protection and environmental forensics require rapid water monitoring and source identification. In this paper, parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC) of fluorescence excitation-emission matrix spectra (EEMS) was used to characterize and classify water samples from landfills, wastewater treatment plants, lakes, and rivers. The study showed that the optimal number of components was four to represent the data set. The fluorescence fingerprints for water samples from different sources were sufficiently different, so qualitative water classification could be achieved. Specifically, Component 1 was the major fluorescing centre in river waters, with characteristics consistent with humic-like fluorophores; Component 2 was the dominant fluorophore in the treated wastewaters; Component 3 was the characteristic fluorophore in landfill leachates; and Components 1, 3, and 4 existed in lake waters at comparable weight, among which Component 4 may be considered as a protein- or amino acid-like fluorophore.
Inducing dendritic growth in cultured sympathetic neurons.

The shape of the dendritic arbor determines the total synaptic input a neuron can receive 1-3, and influences the types and distribution of these inputs 4-6. Altered patterns of dendritic growth and plasticity are associated with impaired neurobehavioral function in experimental models 7, and are thought to contribute to clinical symptoms observed in both neurodevelopmental disorders 8-10 and neurodegenerative diseases 11-13. Such observations underscore the functional importance of precisely regulating dendritic morphology, and suggest that identifying mechanisms that control dendritic growth will not only advance understanding of how neuronal connectivity is regulated during normal development, but may also provide insight on novel therapeutic strategies for diverse neurological diseases. Mechanistic studies of dendritic growth would be greatly facilitated by the availability of a model system that allows neurons to be experimentally switched from a state in which they do not extend dendrites to one in which they elaborate a dendritic arbor comparable to that of their in vivo counterparts. Primary cultures of sympathetic neurons dissociated from the superior cervical ganglia (SCG) of perinatal rodents provide such a model. When cultured in defined medium in the absence of serum and ganglionic glial cells, sympathetic neurons extend a single process which is axonal, and this unipolar state persists for weeks to months in culture 14,15. However, the addition of either bone morphogenetic protein-7 (BMP-7) 16,17 or Matrigel 18 to the culture medium triggers these neurons to extend multiple processes that meet the morphologic, biochemical and functional criteria for dendrites. Sympathetic neurons dissociated from the SCG of perinatal rodents and grown under defined conditions are a homogenous population of neurons 19 that respond uniformly to the dendrite-promoting activity of Matrigel, BMP-7 and other BMPs of the decapentaplegic (dpp) and 60A subfamilies 17,18,20,21. Importantly, Matrigel- and BMP-induced dendrite formation occurs in the absence of changes in cell survival or axonal growth 17,18. Here, we describe how to set up dissociated cultures of sympathetic neurons derived from the SCG of perinatal rats so that they are responsive to the selective dendrite-promoting activity of Matrigel or BMPs.
Hardening CMOS imagers: radhard-by-design or radhard-by-foundry

A comparative study between radhard-by-design and radhard-by-foundry approaches for radiation hardening of CMOS imagers is presented. Main mechanisms for performance degradation in CMOS imagers in a radiation environment are identified, and key differences between the radiation effects in CMOS imagers and that in digital logic circuits are explained. Design methodologies for implementation of CMOS imagers operating in a radiation environment are presented. By summarizing the performance results obtained from imagers implemented in both radhard-by-design and radhard-by-foundry approaches, the advantages and shortcomings of both approaches are identified. It is shown that neither approach presents an optimum solution. The paper concludes by discussing an alternate pathway to overcome these limitations and enable the next-generation high-performance radiation-hard CMOS imagers.
Task difficulty, type A behavior pattern, and cardiovascular response.

Forty-one young male subjects performed either an easy or moderately difficult arithmetic task with the opportunity to earn a monetary incentive if they did well. Cardiovascular (heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure) and subjective responses were assessed immediately prior to and 5 min following task performance. Results indicated greater systolic (SBP) responses during the Pre-task period for subjects expecting to perform the difficult task. Behavior pattern classifications based on the Jenkins Activity Survey revealed Higher Pre-task heart rate (HR) elevations among Type As compared to Bs in the Difficult task condition, and greater Pre-task SBP responses in As compared to Bs irrespective of task difficulty. There also was some evidence of an association between SBP reactivity and scores on the Thurstone Activity scale. Change-scores reflecting SBP and HR reactivity were correlated in the Pre-task period of the Difficult but not the Easy condition. Predictions regarding the impact of motivational arousal upon goal attractiveness were not supported, possibly for methodological reasons.
Analyses of the role of endogenous SPARC in mouse models of prostate and breast cancer

Secreted protein, acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC, also known as osteonectin or BM-40) is a glycoprotein component of the extracellular matrix that has been reported to be involved with a variety of cellular processes. Although SPARC expression levels are frequently altered in a variety of tumor types, the exact implications of deregulated SPARC expression—whether it promotes, inhibits or has no effect on tumor progression—have remained unclear. Our recent gene expression analyses have shown that SPARC is significantly downregulated in highly metastatic human prostate cancer cells. To test the role of endogenous SPARC in tumorigenesis directly, we examined cancer progression and metastasis in SPARC+/− and SPARC−/− mice using two separate transgenic mouse tumor models: transgenic adenocarcinoma of the mouse prostate (TRAMP) and murine mammary tumor virus-polyoma middle T (MMTV-PyMT). Surprisingly, in both instances, we found that loss of SPARC had no significant effects on tumor initiation, progression or metastasis. Tumor angiogenesis and collagen deposition were also largely unaffected. Our results indicate that, although differential SPARC expression may be a useful marker of aggressive, metastasis-prone tumors, loss of SPARC is not sufficient either to promote or to inhibit cancer progression in two spontaneous mouse tumor models.
Separation of the castes ofPolistes exclamans and notes on its biology (Hym.: Vespidae)

1. Autumnal nest populations ofPolistes exclamans include externally indistinguishable workers and future queens. Qualitative as well as quantitative caste differences were found in the parietal fat body. 2. An interesting correlation exists between the type of fat body and amount of eye pigmentation in females of this species. 3. The frequency of transfer of marked males between nests was found to be very low. 4. Polistes exclamans is unusual among North American members of its genus in that it appears to be almost completely haplometrotic in parts of its range. This may be evolutionarily connected with the species' comparatively greater vagility and tendency to disperse. Nest dispersal may reduce the rate of parasitism.
The influence of density variations on estuarine tides and circulations

Abstract Numerical experiments are carried out to investigate the influence of density variations on estuarine tides and circulations. The mathematical model, which has been previously published, is outlined. A detailed analysis of the tidal properties and circulations in an estuary is made for two cases. One case involved density variations while the other assumed a constant density. It was found that the discharge through any section, the tidal range, and the tidal phases were independent of the density structure. However, the actual tidal amplitudes, the mean elevation and the vertical structure of longitudinal velocity changed considerably in the various experiments. Both cases assumed the same coefficient of bottom friction and bathymetric schematization.
Errors in four-electrode impedance plethysmography.

The errors in electrical impedance plethysmography are not well known. In the paper errors due to inadequate instrumentation, improper electrode application, and physiological changes have been analysed. Minimum electrical requirements for a general purpose four-electrode instrument are: (a) input impedance of voltage-sensing circuit+4 kΩ; (b) output impedance of constant-current source+20 kΩ; (c) c.m.r.r.+400; (d) common-mode input impedance+40 kΩ; and (e) apparent change of resistance due to noise×0·5 mΩ. All electrodes should be separated by at least one limb diameter. Changes of electrode impedance due to pressure produce negligible error in a four-electrode configuration. The only way to eliminate the large subject-motion errors is to eliminate the motion. Changes of blood resistivity with velocity produce an error estimated at 10 per cent. A repeatability test on the upper arm gave a standard deviation of 6 per cent of the mean.
Developmental stage annotation of Drosophila gene expression pattern images via an entire solution path for LDA

Gene expression in a developing embryo occurs in particular cells (spatial patterns) in a time-specific manner (temporal patterns), which leads to the differentiation of cell fates. Images of a Drosophila melanogaster embryo at a given developmental stage, showing a particular gene expression pattern revealed by a gene-specific probe, can be compared for spatial overlaps. The comparison is fundamentally important to formulating and testing gene interaction hypotheses. Expression pattern comparison is most biologically meaningful when images from a similar time point (developmental stage) are compared. In this paper, we present LdaPath, a novel formulation of Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) for automatic developmental stage range classification. It employs multivariate linear regression with the L1-norm penalty controlled by a regularization parameter for feature extraction and visualization. LdaPath computes an entire solution path for all values of regularization parameter with essentially the same computational cost as fitting one LDA model. Thus, it facilitates efficient model selection. It is based on the equivalence relationship between LDA and the least squares method for multiclass classifications. This equivalence relationship is established under a mild condition, which we show empirically to hold for many high-dimensional datasets, such as expression pattern images. Our experiments on a collection of 2705 expression pattern images show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. Results also show that the LDA model resulting from LdaPath is sparse, and irrelevant features may be removed. Thus, LdaPath provides a general framework for simultaneous feature selection and feature extraction.
Properties of groups related to the second center

If no class K is mentioned it is understood that the statement holds in the class of all finite groups. For example, we have by definition that Z1 _-< N, Z~ __< Z2 and also from a result of SCnENKMAN [7] that N__< Z2. In this paper we consider functors derived from properties of finite groups and their relation to the known functors Z~, N, Z z and H*. All groups considered will be assumed finite, and any property E will be taken so that (i) all cyclic groups of prime power order are E-groups, (ii) subgroups of E-groups are also E-groups. For a given property E, let GE be the set of all E-subgroups of the group G. We define an E-covering of G to be a subset S of GE such that (a) every element of prime power order lies in at least one Ue S, (b) S is normal, i.e. S=S g for every geG. If [E] denotes the set of maximal elements of GE, then our assumptions about E imply that [E] is an E-covering of G. Note that an E-covering need not be a covering in the ordinary sense: the Sylow subgroups are an Eo-covering for the property Eo = nilpotency. The norm Ns(G) of a given E-covering S of G is defined as the normalizer of the system S:
Analyzing the Cognitive Difficulties for Developing and Using UML Class Diagrams for Domain Understanding

Developing and using conceptual models require modelers' cognitive efforts. To identify and analyze the cognitive difficulties of modelers in developing and using conceptual models, two laboratory studies were conducted using UML class diagram as a conceptual modeling technique. In the first study, two groups of modelers were trained to develop UML class diagrams, with only one group being trained to develop the diagrams using ontological rules. All these diagrams were then provided to a different set of modelers who used them to answer domain understanding tasks. It was found that modelers who used the ontological rules had less difficulty in developing the diagrams than those who didn't. Similarly, modelers who used the diagrams developed by the group trained with rules had less difficulty in performing problem solving tasks than the modelers who used the diagrams developed by the group without training. It was observed that the cognitive difficulties of the modelers of the first study were transferred to the modelers in the second study.
Speech errors and the representation of tone in Mandarin Chinese

One of the major advances in phonological theory during the past twenty years has been the refinement of a theory regarding the representation and behaviour of tones (Goldsmith 1976, 1990, Fromkin 1978, Clements & Goldsmith 1984, Hyman 1986, 1993, Pulleyblank 1986, 1997), particularly for African tone languages and East Asian tone languages (for recent reviews see Odden 1995 and Yip 1995). A general outline of such a theory, using an autosegmental framework, might be something like the following: (a) Tones or tone melodies are represented in underlying phonological representations (UR); in some cases they are linked to specific ‘tone-bearing units’ (TBUs) such as syllables, moras or vowels on other tiers in UR, and in other cases they are unlinked. (b) Phonological rules will associate tones with correct TBUs according to universal and language-specific principles, including a universal well-formedness condition, such that no tones or TBUs which remain at the end of the derivation are unassociated. Tones may be delinked and omitted or reassociated by phonological rules, which may involve tone spreading, tone sandhi and a number of other phenomena. (c) Tones have a primarily lexical rather than syntagmatic function. (d) Contour tones are represented in UR as a sequence of two or more level tones, and function as tone sequences in tone rules, such that for example an underlying HL sequence may surface as either a falling contour tone on a single TBU or a high–low sequence on two adjacent TBUs. (e) It is assumed that tonal systems in all languages follow the same universal principles, which underlie the theory outlined here.
Proteome basis of red color defect in channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) fillets

Abstract The quality attributes, descriptive sensory characteristics, and muscle proteomes (sarcoplasmic and myofibrillar) of normal and reddish channel catfish ( Ictalurus punctatus ) fillets were evaluated. Reddish fillets had greater ( p a *(redness) and b * (yellowness) values and lower L * (lightness) ( p p > 0.05) in cooking loss and instrumental texture. The reddish fillets were more ( p p p p > 0.05) were observed in the abundance of myofibrillar proteome components. The results indicated that the occurrence of red color defect in catfish fillets is primarily due to the over-abundance of hemoglobin.
“The Other”: Precursory African Conceptions of Democracy

Democracy is a configuration of governance molded by the general values, biases, prejudices, and nuances of a given culture. Individuals in Western countries typically identify with the state as reflecting the desires of the body politic. However, in the African world, including Northeastern Africa (or the Middle East as it is labeled in Western literature), identity is primarily reflected in one's ethnicity, religion, and communal adaptations and traditions. That is, the state's conception of governance is not always congruent with the heterogeneous peoples of a particular nation-state. As a result, ways of governance and perceptions of the “good” life are often conflicting at the local, state, and national levels. These clashing ideas are viewed with incertitude and trepidation in the Western world of democracies. Thus, Western democracies label non-Western democratic experiments as “the other.” Hence, without a more holistic understanding of why ethnicity, religion, and communal attachments are so salient in non-Western societies, Western democracies limit the “democratic playing field” as well as circumscribe cooperative, enduring relationships with “the other.” A reappraisal of democracy as a form of governance is needed to find a paradigm that is more suitable to the context in which various African nation-states exist. That is, one size does not and should not fit all.
Assessment of preschool play interaction behaviors in young low-income children: Penn Interactive Peer Play Scale

The purpose of this study was to develop and validate the Penn Interactive Peer Play Scale (PIPPS), a teacher-rating instrument of the interactive play behaviors of preschool children. The PIPPS was designed (a) to differentiate children who demonstrate positive play relationships with peers from those who are less successful with peers, (b) to identify play strengths of resilient preschool children living in high risk urban environments, and (c) to inform early childhood intervention. The PIPPS was based upon teacher descriptions of actual play repertoires that children routinely displayed during free play. Thirty-eight teachers from 5 representative urban Head Start Centers completed the measure on 312 African American children enrolled in Head Start. Exploratory factor analyses revealed three reliable underlying dimensions: Play Interaction, Play Disruption, and Play Disconnection. Concurrent validity was established by comparing the factor patterns of the PIPPS and the Social Skills Rating System. Implications for future research and practice are discussed.
Study of SiOx decomposition kinetics and formation of Si nanocrystals in an SiO2 matrix

The kinetics of the decomposition of silicon suboxides (SiO x , 0.7 < x< 1.3) was studied as function of post deposition annealing treatment. Amorphous Si:O:H alloys were deposited by remote plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition and subjected to rapid thermal anneal. Extent of reaction was monitored by Fourier transform infrared analysis. For all compositions, it was found that there was a fast initial reaction associated with hydrogen loss, followed by a decelatory reaction that is described as 3-dimensional diffusion limited. However the reaction is strongly deceleratory at temperatures less than 900°C, thus SiO x stability is found through kinetic hindrance. Photoluminescence (PL) experiments showed that the decomposition reaction proceeds in the amorphous state with the observation of a-Si PL after high temperature anneals up to 800°C and H 2 plasma passivation.
Particle Release from Respirators, Part II: Determination of the Effect of Tension Applied in Simulation of Removal

This study evaluated the potential for disposable filtering facepiece respirators (hereafter termed masks) contaminated with 1-μ m particles to release particles as a result of lateral tension applied to the mask. The lateral tension was designed to simulate the removal of a contaminated mask from a user's head. Four brands of filtering facepieces were loaded with approximately 20 million 1.0-μ m polystyrene latex (PSL) microspheres. The respirators were then placed in a test chamber and subjected to lateral tension between 17.8–26.7 N (4–6 lbs) for 1 to 2 sec. The findings suggest that neither mask type nor loading condition affects particle release. This supports our hypothesis that when filtering facepiece respirators are properly removed from the head they will not release a significant number of particles.
One-loop renormalization of Lorentz-violating electrodynamics

We show that the general Lorentz- and CPT-violating extension of quantum electrodynamics is one-loop renormalizable. The one-loop Lorentz-violating beta functions are obtained, and the running of the coefficients for Lorentz and $\mathrm{CPT}$ violation is determined. Some implications for theory and experiment are discussed.
Matched eigenfunction expansions for slow flow over a slot

Abstract We solve the problem of plane flow of a second-order fluid over a rectangular slot when inertia is neglected by matching biorthogonal eigenfunction expansions in different regions of flow. The method appears to be cheaper and more accurate than direct numerical methods. The effect of normal stresses on pressure measurements at the bottom of the slot is discussed.
Plasma testosterone levels during the testicular cycle of the redwinged blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus)

Abstract Fluctuations in plasma testosterone concentration during the testicular cycle of adult captive redwinged blackbirds were measured by radioimmunoassay. A peak in testosterone (range: 24.8–27.4 ng/10 ml) was associated with small testes that weighed less than 100 mg in the photosensitive stage. In the regressive stage, testosterone concentration was uniformly low (mean ± SEM: 6.6 ± 0.6 ng/10 ml) over a range of gonadal weights (range: 6.5–799.8 mg). Surprisingly, testosterone was detected in birds in the refractory stage maintained on a long photoperiod for 35 days (7.7 ± 0.6 ng/10 ml) and in two birds kept for about 27 weeks (10.3 and 12.3 ng/10 ml). The relationship between plasma testosterone levels and the extent of testosterone synthesis by blackbird testes is discussed.
Engineering T Cells to Functionally Cure HIV-1 Infection.

Despite the ability of antiretroviral therapy to minimize human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) replication and increase the duration and quality of patients' lives, the health consequences and financial burden associated with the lifelong treatment regimen render a permanent cure highly attractive. Although T cells play an important role in controlling virus replication, they are themselves targets of HIV-mediated destruction. Direct genetic manipulation of T cells for adoptive cellular therapies could facilitate a functional cure by generating HIV-1–resistant cells, redirecting HIV-1–specific immune responses, or a combination of the two strategies. In contrast to a vaccine approach, which relies on the production and priming of HIV-1–specific lymphocytes within a patient's own body, adoptive T-cell therapy provides an opportunity to customize the therapeutic T cells prior to administration. However, at present, it is unclear how to best engineer T cells so that sustained control over HIV-1 replication can be achieved in the absence of antiretrovirals. This review focuses on T-cell gene-engineering and gene-editing strategies that have been performed in efforts to inhibit HIV-1 replication and highlights the requirements for a successful gene therapy–mediated functional cure.
Effect of High Levels of Larvadex® on Reproduction in Leghorn Breeders

The insect growth inhibitor, Larvadex, was fed to egg type breeder hens for 8 weeks at levels of 0, 50, 100, 500, 1000, and 2000 ppm and to the same strain of males at 0 and 2000 ppm. All birds were kept in individual cages. Fertility was determined following artificial insemination. Egg production was significantly increased in Experiment 1 but numerically decreased in Experiment 2 by feeding 1000 ppm Larvadex. Feeding 2000 ppm significantly decreased egg production in both experiments. Egg weight was highest at 100 ppm and decreased with higher treatment levels. Specific gravity of eggs was improved with all Larvadex treatments. Fertility was not affected by treatment of females or males. Hatchability was reduced by the 1000 and 2000 ppm levels in the hen's diet. Semen quality was not significantly affected by feeding Larvadex at 2000 ppm.
Dopamine efflux via wild-type and mutant dopamine transporters: alanine substitution for proline-572 enhances efflux and reduces dependence on extracellular dopamine, sodium and chloride concentrations.

Abstract The dopamine transporter (DAT) can mediate not only inward uptake of dopamine, but also its outward efflux by mechanisms that have been only partially elucidated. DAT-dependent dopamine efflux can be studied kinetically and apparent substrate affinity and V max values determined. We now report that wild-type DAT displays apparent affinities for efflux more than 300-fold lower than those for uptake. Efflux rates are enhanced by increased extracellular concentrations of dopamine or amphetamine and by lowered extracellular concentrations of Na + or Cl − . Alanine substitutions for six proline residues located in or near DAT transmembrane domains increase apparent affinity and decrease V max values for dopamine efflux mediated by these mutant transporters. Mutant 12P572A displays increased DAT efflux with reduced dependence on ion or dopamine concentrations. These data add to evidence for the specificity of transporter-mediated efflux processes and begin to elucidate DAT candidate domains that may be preferentially involved with efflux activities.
Outline of Practical Characteristics of an Image-Forming System*

The relationships between certain fundamental characteristic functions relating to an optical image-forming system are indicated, some being observable experimentally and others being unobservable. Of the observable characteristics two are especially useful in the analysis of the image-forming properties of the system. One of these represents the image of a point object and the other the Fourier transform of this point image. The two are considered for their practicality as bases for objective laboratory techniques in image evaluation. The transform of the point image is practical as it stands whereas the point image itself is not. A function directly related to the point image and to a number of other simple objects is suggested as a practical representative function. The practical functions are correlated and the relative merits of the two approaches are considered.
Dislocation-mediated melting in superfluid vortex lattices

We describe thermal melting of the two-dimensional vortex lattice in a rotating superfluid by generalizing the Halperin and Nelson theory of dislocation-mediated melting. and derive a melting temperature proportional to the renormalized shear modulus of the vortex lattice. The rigid-body rotation of the superfluid attenuates the effects of lattice compression on the energy of dislocations and hence the melting temperature, while not affecting the shearing. Finally, we discuss dislocations and thermal melting in inhomogeneous rapidly rotating Bose-Einstein condensates; we delineate a phase diagram in the temperature -- rotation rate plane, and infer that the thermal melting temperature should lie below the Bose-Einstein transition temperature.
Thermosolvatochromism of Betaine-30 in CH3CN

The solvatochromic dye betaine-30 is thermochromic as well, due to the temperature dependence of solvent polarity, which strongly influences the wavelength of the visible absorption band. We report...
Chris Pierce and the Yankee Donut Company: An E-Mail-Based Management Simulation

In this article, the authors describe an e-mail-based simulation that helps students experience the fast-paced, complex world of the middle manager. In this electronic in-basket exercise, students assume the role of a district manager in a doughnut company as they respond to a rapid series of high- and low-priority e-mails ostensibly sent from superiors, subordinates, colleagues, and customers. The simulation creates an engaging learning environment that helps students understand the complex world of managers and stimulates their interest in organizational behavior. Because the exercise is designed around standard e-mail technology, the simulation is straightforward and can be easily customized to support other learning objectives.
Assessment of sensitivity and specificity of clinical evaluation of cast restoration marginal accuracy compared to stereomicroscopy.

Statement of problem One of the most important criteria for the clinical acceptability and longevity of cast restorations is marginal adaptation. However, there is limited information on the accuracy of commonly practiced evaluation techniques. Purpose This study assessed the effect of preparation design on marginal adaptation. In addition, sensitivity and specificity of clinical evaluations of marginal adaptations of cast restorations were assessed and compared to stereomicroscopy. Material and methods Three Ivorine molar teeth of differing designs were prepared: (1) a complete crown preparation with a chamfer finish line, (2) a complete crown preparation with a buccal shoulder and beveled finish line, and (3) a three-quarter crown preparation with proximal boxes and beveled finish line. Twenty-four castings (n = 8) were prepared (Ney technique casting metal). Twelve circumferential sites were identified for examination on each casting using a stereomicroscope, which was interpreted using software (Bioquant 98). The clinical examinations included explorer examination to detect marginal gap by tactile feel, followed by examination with a disclosing media (GC FitChecker). Chi-square tests of independence were used to evaluate the effect of preparation design and compare agreement between examination methods for detection of marginal gap size of greater than or equal to 30 μm (α=.05). Results The overall marginal adaptation of preparation designs was not significantly different. Results of explorer examination at 30-μm sensitivity and specificity were 46% and 97%, respectively. Similar values for disclosing media at 30 μm were 12% sensitivity and 97% specificity. The overall percent agreement with the stereomicroscope using the explorer was 58.3%, with 23.6% correct acceptance rate and 34.7% correct rejection rate. With respect to detection of marginal fit, the combination of disclosing material with explorer data did not yield significantly improved results (59.4%), as compared to explorer alone. A receiver operator characteristic curve yielded satisfactory sensitivity (0.8) and specificity (0.9) at a gap size value of 124 μm. Conclusion Within the limitations of this study, the preparation design did not significantly affect the marginal adaptation. Clinical detection, with similar sensitivity and specificity as the stereomicroscope, occurred at marginal openings greater than or equal to 124 μm. Therefore, commonly used clinical evaluation techniques using an explorer and disclosing media may be inadequate for assessments of marginal accuracy.
A method for complete extraction of embedding material from tissue sections for the electron microscope.

Abstract A method for complete extraction of embedding material from butyl methacrylate embedded Sections for the electron microscope is described. The extraction is carried out in the microscope by electron bombardment at high beam intensities made possible by removing the condenser aperture. Little or no distortion due to the method of extraction is observed. Extraction is not the result of simple heating but may be due to a depolymerization resulting from electron bombardment. Shrinkage normal to the section occurs and is greater in some tissue components than in others. It is suggested that this observation may make possible an estimate of the relative water contents of different tissue components.
RapidIO for radar processing in advanced space systems

Space-based radar is a suite of applications that presents many unique system design challenges. In this paper, we investigate use of RapidIO, a new high-performance embedded systems interconnect, in addressing issues associated with the high network bandwidth requirements of real-time ground moving target indicator (GMTI), and synthetic aperture Radar (SAR) applications in satellite systems. Using validated simulation, we study several critical issues related to the RapidIO network and algorithms under study. The results show that RapidIO is a promising platform for space-based radar using emerging technology, providing network bandwidth to enable parallel computation previously unattainable in an embedded satellite system.
The effects of reality-based television programming on diet and exercise motivation and self-efficacy in young adults.

Grounded in social cognitive theory, this research examines the effects of reality entertainment programming and embedded commercials on viewers' perceived motivations and efficacy to exercise and consume a healthy diet as well as on food preference. In a 3 (program type) × 2 (advertisement type) study design, 253 female undergraduates were randomly assigned to watch an episode of a health-oriented reality program, a non-heath-oriented reality program, or a health-themed sitcom in which commercials for either healthy or unhealthy foods were embedded. Results indicated that perceived realism of the health-oriented reality program generated greater confidence to eat more healthily and exercise, as well as greater motivation to exercise. Additionally, program viewing differentially affected motivations to eat healthily and to exercise, but only when type of advertisement (high vs. low calorie food ads) was taken into consideration. Finally, women who watched the health-oriented reality program were more like...
Theoretical models for the reduction of arylmethyl halides by triorganotin hydrides

Two mechanistic pathways have been proposed for halogen atom transfer from the benzylic positions of halomethylarenes to triorganotin radicals. These are direct atom abstraction, which might involve an extremely polar transition state, and single electron transfer followed by bond cleavage. AM1 semi-empirical calculations have been utilized to model the rate-determining step of these processes. A wide range of related families of compounds have been studied, including substituted halomethylbenzenes, selected halomethyl-substituted polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and oxygen- and nitrogen-containing chloromethyl-substituted heteroaromatic systems. Although these calculations are relatively simple, the present results corroborate the view that chlorine and bromine atom transfer from the benzylic position to triorganotin radicals involves a direct atom abstraction in the rate-determining step whereas reduction of the corresponding iodides proceeds via an electron-transfer mechanism
Genetic and physiological characterization of Flaveria linearis plants having a reduced activity of cytosolic fructose‐1.6‐bisphosphatase

We investigated the genetic control of cytosolic fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase (cytFBPase) activity, and the relationships between sucrose synthesis capacity and photosynthesis, growth, flowering and whole-plant carbon partitioning in Flaveria lineal Lag. F 1 , F 2 , and selfed lines generated from plants with low or high cytFBPase activity were used. CytFBPase activity was controlled by one gene and inherited co-dominantly, giving three classes of activity (low, intermediate and high). Reversed O 2 sensitivity of photosynthesis, which indicates an end-product limitation on photosynthesis, was controlled by one gene and co-segregated with low cytFBPase activity. A low activity of cytFBPase decreased the growth rate. A recessive day-neutral flowering trait in Flaveria linearis did not co-segregate with cytFBPase activity. Plants with low cytFBPase activity had an increased shoot-to-root ratio, and flowering caused an additional shift in carbon partitioning to shoots only in plants with low cytFBPase activity. These data indicate that altering sucrose synthesis can affect photosynthesis and plant growth and development.
Nitride lasers: Optical gain and device implications

The blue nitride laser presents a fascinating case for the study of the microscopics of optical gain. For InGaN quantum wells, these are highlighted by intense competition between localized and extended electronic states in this unusual, heterogeneous active laser medium.
COVALENT BINDING OF POLY (ETHYLENE GLYCOL) (PEG) TO THE SURFACE OF RED BLOOD CELLS INHIBITS AGGREGATION AND REDUCES LOW SHEAR BLOOD VISCOSITY

A simple method to coat human red blood cells (RBC) with PEG is described. Using a reactive derivative, monomethoxy-PEG (mPEG) was covalently attached to the surface of RBC in aqueous media under mild conditions. The PEG coating dramatically reduced aggregation and low shear viscosity of RBC resuspended in autologous plasma, and inhibited RBC agglutination by blood group-specific antibodies. Morphology and deformability of the PEG-treated cells were unaltered. The PEG coating of the RBC surface may be of significant benefit in the treatment of a variety of diseases characterized by vasoocclusion or impaired blood flow, e.g., myocardial infarction, sickle cell disease.
Flexible Lattice Model To Study Protein Folding

We present a new Monte Carlo lattice model to study the folding of two-dimensional heteropolymer chains. Previous lattice model studies of two-dimensional chains have been performed on square grids using predefined “move sets” of allowed moves. The motion of the polymer chain in these models is thus highly constrained. To add greater flexibility, we use a triangular lattice and allow the chain to choose its own moves. Physically unrealistic moves are prevented by including kinetic energy effects in the Metropolis algorithm. From the results, we can characterize all of the possible one- and two-monomer moves and sort them according to relative importance. Greater flexibility in the lattice model produces several significant and interesting physical consequences.
The Cosmological Constant Problem

Astronomical observations indicate that the cosmological constant is many orders of magnitude smaller than estimated in modern theories of elementary particles. After a brief review of the history of this problem, five different approaches to its solution are described.