cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Reentry and the problem of cortical integration.

This chapter discusses the integration of functionally segregated areas that may occur in the brain, proposes and illustrates the process of reentry as a solution to the problem of integration, and presents a measure called “neural complexity.” Computer simulations can help to define the problem of integration in more precise terms, to clarify integration as a concept, to illustrate a process—reentry as a mechanism to achieve the integration—and finally to make experimental predictions. The results that demonstrate how the activity of distant neuronal groups can lock in with near zero phase lag should be considered an important indication of the presence and the effects of reentry. Thus, it is argued that consciousness results from the integration of many specialized perceptual and cognitive processes that are carried out in parallel in different parts of the brain. It could be possible to measure the extent of the interplay of functional segregation and integration in the working brain by means of the notion of neural complexity.
Headache currents: headache and sleep.

The objective of this study was to evaluate whether the quality of sleep and the degree of fatigue and daytime sleepiness are related to migraine. We investigated 489 subjects comprising 97 patients with 8 or more, 77 patients with 5-7 and 196 patients with 1-4 migraine days per month, and 119 migraine-free controls with fewer than 6 headache days per year. The patients were recruited via articles in newspapers not stressing the subject of the study. All participants underwent a semistructured interview and completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), the Self-rating Depression Scale, and the Self-rating Anxiety Scale. For statistical analysis we used two-way manovas, post hoc univariate two-way anovas and Hochberg's GT2 tests as well as three-way mixed design anovas. The PSQI total score was highest in patients with frequent migraine (5.9 ± 4.3) and lowest in controls (4.3 ± 2.5, P = 0.04). Four subscores of the PSQI showed similar statistically significant differences. The FSS and ESS scores did not differ in the 4 study groups. Analyzing depression and anxiety revealed a significant impact on PSQI, FSS, and ESS, but did not demonstrate interactions with migraine, thus suggesting that the impact of migraine is similar in patients without and with psychiatric comorbidity. In conclusion, the quality of sleep is decreased in patients with migraine, whereas fatigue and daytime sleepiness do not differ from healthy controls. The decreased quality of sleep in migraineurs is also a consequence of migraine itself and cannot be explained exclusively by comorbidity with depression or anxiety.
Formation of Collective Memories through Group Conversations: Examining the Involvement of the "Post-Event Misinformation Effect"

The term "collective memories" refers to memories shared within a given group of people. It is hypothesized that one of the ways in which memory acquire "collectivity" is through "post-event misinformation effect" (Loftus, 1975) of group conversation. In an experiment testing this hypothesis, individuals from eight four-member groups read stories containing conflicting information. Following a group recounting on the next day, they performed individual free-recall and forced-choice recognition consisting of the four alternatives appearing in the four different versions of the stories (e.g., Camel, Marlboro, Winston, and Parliament). Subjects were more likely to falsely recognize as well as recall other members' version when it was mentioned in the group recounting. The individuals who undertook the majority of the recounting, who were defined as Narrators, were more likely to insert their own versions into other member's subsequent recall and recognition. This advantage allowed the Narrator to shape the post-group individual memories.
Studies with hydroxyurea: VIII. The deoxyribonucleic acid of hydroxyurea-treated cells

Abstract 1. 1. The deoxyribonucleic acid isolated from bacteria devitalized by hydroxyurea is modified structurally. In spite of this modification the DNA can act as a primer for DNA-polymerase. The alteration of cellular DNA requires the metabolic participation of the bacterium. 2. 2. The DNA-synthesizing enzymes of hydroxyurea-treated bacteria appear to be intact and functional. 3. 3. A double-labelling procedure for analysing a mixture of DNA's derived from normal and from treated cells is introduced. It takes advantage of the ability of ECTEOLA-cellulose to discriminate among DNA molecules on the basis of size and configuration. 4. 4. The rapid and facile isolation of a DNA-synthesizing system from embryonic chicks is described. This system has an absolute requirement for single-stranded DNA primer.
Responses to the Claims of the Anti-Agenda 21 Disinformation Campaign

The following chart identifies frequent claims made by the anti-Agenda 21 campaign and responses to these untruthful assertions.
Decays of High-Spin Objects Produced by Pion Exchange

The OPE-$\ensuremath{\delta}$ prescription for approximating the absorptive one-pion-exchange (OPE) predictions for spin-density matrix elements has been applied to quasi-two-body reactions with final-state particles of arbitrary spins. Results indicate that the model is able to give the qualitative features of usual absorptive-one-pion-exchange (OPEA) models. Agreement between OPE-$\ensuremath{\delta}$ and OPEA predictions is good in general. Predictions of the two models for diagonal density matrix elements for the reaction $\ensuremath{\pi}+N\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{f}^{0}+N$ tend to disagree at larger angles.
Understanding the Barriers and Facilitators of Colorectal Cancer Screening Among Low Income Immigrant Hispanics

Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening rates are low among Hispanics; thus understanding screening barriers and facilitators is essential. A survey, based on blended health promotion theories, was conducted with low income, mostly immigrant, Hispanics at community based organizations and health clinics in New York City. Correlates of undergoing colonoscopy screening were examined. Four hundred men (28%) and women were interviewed. Older age, longer US residence, having a regular health care provider and provider recommendation predicted colonoscopy receipt (P values <0.01). Greater fear and worry concerning colonoscopy and fewer perceived screening benefits were associated with reduced screening likelihood (P values <0.05). In a multivariate model, colonoscopy receipt was negatively associated with Medicaid and positively associated with English preference, physician recommendation for and encouragement of screening and less fear. Interventions that educate physicians and patients regarding colonoscopy screening guidelines, increase physicians’ screening referrals, and reduce patients’ fear are needed.
The role of p38 in mitochondrial respiration in male and female mice

p38 is a mitogen-activated protein kinase and mediates cell growth, cell differentiation, and synaptic plasticity. The aim of this study is to determine the extent to which p38 plays a role in maintaining mitochondrial respiration in male and female mice under a normal condition. To achieve this aim, we have generated transgenic mice that lack p38 in cerebellar Purkinje neurons by crossing Pcp2 (Purkinje cell protein 2)-Cre mice with p38loxP/loxP mice. Mitochondria from cerebellum were then isolated from the transgenic and wild-type mice to measure mitochondrial respiration using XF24 respirometer. The mRNA and protein expression of cytochrome c oxidase (COX) in cerebellum were also measured using RT-PCR and immunoblot methods. Separately, HT22 cells were used to determine the involvement of 17β-estradiol (E2) and COX in mitochondrial respiration. The genetic knockout of p38 in Purkinje neurons suppressed the mitochondrial respiration only in male mice and increased COX expression only in female mice. The inhibition of COX by sodium azide (SA) sharply suppressed mitochondrial respiration of HT22 cells in a manner that was protected by E2. These data suggest that p38 is required for the mitochondrial respiration of male mice. When p38 is below a normal level, females may maintain mitochondrial respiration through COX up-regulation.
Effective interactions and elementary excitations in nuclear matter

A polarization potential theory for nuclear matter is presented. Starting from a realistic two-body interaction we construct pseudopotentials which describe the effective quasiparticle interaction. Using these the linear response in various spin-isospin channels is evaluated.
A study of biotechnology start-ups undergoing leadership change: Antecedents of change and endogenous performance consequences

Abstract One of the most important decisions that a new biotechnology firm faces is whether to replace its founding CEO, who often has been involved with the invention of the firm's core technology, with a more professional manager, who has broader commercialization skills to help the firm to grow into a viable business. In this paper, we argue that leadership change away from the founding CEO is influenced strongly by the interests of key stakeholders and that the endogeneity inherent in the change (or non-change) influences firm performance. As the context surrounding decision-making changes from pre-patent to post-IPO, key stakeholders often may not view what is best for the firm and best for self-interest in the same way. Using data on change in leadership at 135 U.S. biotechnology equipment firms, we find evidence that the context in which decisions are being made influences which of the various competing interests will take precedence. The results further confirm the importance of controlling for endogeneity in decision-making when examining firm performance.
The variation in vein graft flow velocity with luminal diameter and outflow level.

Abstract Duplex scanning has recently been used to monitor the patency of infrainguinal vein grafts. Empirically derived criteria that have been used for identifying the failing graft have never accounted for the effect of vein graft diameter or varying outflow resistance, despite the fact that they are major determinants of flow. We prospectively examined the variation in graft peak systolic flow velocity with graft diameter and outflow level in a consecutive series of 68 patients with 72 normally functioning vein grafts returning for routine follow-up. Images were obtained of vein grafts with a duplex scanner throughout their lengths, and the distal peak systolic flow velocity and intraluminal diameters were recorded. There were 15 popliteal, 26 tibial, and 21 inframalleolar grafts. The mean ankle-brachial index of inframalleolar grafts was 1.01 ± 0.04 and did not differ significantly from tibial (0.96 ± 0.03) or popliteal (0.93 ± 0.06) grafts ( p = 0.32). Grafts to the three outflow levels differed significantly in diameter, with inframalleolar grafts measuring 3.95 ± 0.17 mm, tibial grafts 4.78 ± 0.21 mm, and popliteal grafts 5.65 ± 0.38 mm ( p = 0.0001). In a similar manner inframalleolar grafts had significantly lower peak systolic flow velocities (59.1 ± 3.4 cm/sec) than tibial (77.2 ± 5.6 cm/sec) or popliteal (71.0 ± 7.6 cm/sec) grafts ( p = 0.04). Inframalleolar grafts did not demonstrate a significant correlation ( r = −0.21, p = 0.29) between peak systolic flow velocity and graft diameter. Conversely, both tibial ( r = −0.49, p = 0.005) and popliteal ( r = −0.73, p = 0.002) grafts demonstrated significant inverse correlations. Furthermore, linear regression analysis revealed that popliteal and tibial grafts shared a similar and predictable inverse relationship between peak systolic flow velocity and graft diameter. We propose that consideration of peak systolic flow velocity independent of graft diameter is a suboptimal indicator of impending graft failure. Comparison of each peak systolic flow velocity with a diameter-specific range of acceptable values should improve the accuracy of duplex scan surveillance studies. (J Vasc Surg 1992;15:991–9.)
Tax Expenditure Reporting: The Utilization of an Innovation

Central to this article is the question, “Are tax expenditure reports used?” State legislators serving on tax committees in ten states were surveyed regarding their use and their perceptions of others' use of tax expenditure report information. Responses indicate (1) strong acceptance and broad use of report information; (2) purposes and policy stages of use characteristic of technical information use; and (3) use focused predominantly on resource acquisition (revenue) policy rather than resource allocation (budget) policy. Thus it appears that tax expenditure reporting does not operate to secure budgetary control over tax expenditures, and consequently tax expenditures continue largely to escape budget scrutiny.
Synaptic connections of relay and local circuit neurons in the monkey's dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus

Abstract The synaptic inputs to a single neuron's dendritic tree can be anlyzed using electronmicroscopic reconstructions after intracellular injections of horseradish peroxidase. In the monkey's dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus, the proximal dendrites of magnocellular and parvocellular relay cells received retinal synapses and inhibitory synapses, while the intermediate and distal dendrites received cortical synapses. A local circuit neuron had both similar synaptic inputs and similar physiology to parvocellular relay neurons, but additionally had presynaptic dendrites and no axon. These results provide a wiring diagram for the neuronal types in this nucleus.
The imperfect longing: Sam Selvon's The Lonely Londoners and the dance of doubt

This paper explores the social and narrative construction of immigrant identity and diasporicity in Sam Selvon's The Lonely Londoners. The stories of the immigrant men in this novel rely on the scaffolding of the narratives by Moses Aloetta, an early migrant to London from the colonial space. Moses depicts the experience of movement as part of a larger lyrical analysis of exclusionary practices embedded in language practices that the men defy in order to claim London as home. The treatment of London as a site in which inclusion is negotiated and the center becomes the eccentric reverses conventional configurations of space whereby the men's stories become the elocutionary point of view in which adaptation and contingency become the locus of life and living. The Lonely Londoners offers an aesthetics of modernity and migration located in speech acts – the ballad, the episode, and the lark. This literary creation of a diasporic imaginary calls attention to the various, sometimes conflicting ways in which the...
The estrogenic properties in vitro of diethylstilbestrol and substances related to estradiol.

A number of natural and synthetic estrogens and their structural analogs were tested for their effectiveness in stimulating or inhibiting the estrogen dependent pyridine nucleotide transhydrogenase of human placenta. Dicthylstilbestrol is a potent stimulator of the enzyme system at low concentrations but is an inhibitor at concentrations above 3×10-6 M. The stilbestrol analog, 1,3 di-p-hydroxylphenyl propane, has only inhibitory effects on the system. Estrololactone, testololactone and A-l testololactone neither stimulate nor inhibit the transhydrogenase. Estrone sulfatc has stimulatory activity equal to estrone or estradiol whereas estradiol disulfate is inactive. It becomes active when the sulfatcs are removed by solvolysis. The thiol analogs of estradiol, with an –SH group in place of the –OH at carbon 17 are not dehydrogenated by cstradiol-17β dehydrogenase nor can they stimulate transhydrogenase. They are potent inhibitors of estradiol-17β dehydrogenase, with the (3 thiol analog being more effective ...
Patterns of Diagnoses, Comorbidities, and Treatment in Late‐Middle‐Aged and Older Affective Disorder Patients: Comparison of Mental Health and Medical Sectors

OBJECTIVE: To compare the diagnoses, psychiatric and medical comorbidities, and prior and current treatment received by late-middle-aged and older affective disorder patients in mental health and medical service settings and to identify predictors of these patients' length of inpatient care. DESIGN: Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) nationwide databases are used to examine the prevalence, diagnoses, and inpatient and outpatient treatment received by affective disorder patients in mental health and medical units in Fiscal Year 1990. RESULTS: Compared with late-middle-aged and older index medical patients (n = 11,701), index mental health patients (n = 9039) were more likely to have affective psychoses and major depressive disorder and less likely to have depressive disorder NOS. Almost 60% of affective disorder patients in mental health settings had comorbid psychiatric diagnoses; this was true of 30% of patients in medical settings. Moreover, more than 80% of affective disorder patients in mental health settings had concomitant medical disorders. Affective disorder patients also had very high rates of prior mental health and medical care. Patients who had more severe affective disorders and comorbid psychiatric and medical diagnoses had longer episodes of inpatient care; in contrast, more intensive prior medical and mental health outpatient care was associated with shorter episodes of inpatient care. CONCLUSIONS: The findings highlight affective disorder patients' high rates of comorbidity and intensive use of health care resources, emphasize the value of outpatient care in reducing the amount of subsequent inpatient care, and underscore the need for closer integration of mental health and medical care.
Examination of wettability and surface energy in fluorodecyl POSS/polymer blends

Fluorodecyl Polyhedral Oligomeric SilSesquioxane (POSS) is a low surface energy material (γsv ≈ 10 mN m−1) that has been used as a coating to prepare a variety of liquid repellent surfaces. There are several drawbacks to employing pure fluorodecyl POSS as a coating, including high cost, poor adherence to the underlying substrate, and a lack of optical transparency. One potential strategy for overcoming these shortcomings while retaining liquid repellency is to prepare composite coatings by judiciously blending polymers with fluorodecyl POSS. Here varying amounts of fluorodecyl POSS are blended with commercially available poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), poly(ethyl methacrylate) (PEMA), poly(butyl methacrylate) (PBMA), and the commercial fluoroelastomer Tecnoflon BR9151. A film of each blend is spin cast onto a silicon wafer and its surface wettability is probed by measuring advancing and receding contact angles of six liquids: water, ethylene glycol, dimethyl sulfoxide, diiodomethane, rapeseed oil, and hexadecane. Surface energy analysis techniques developed by Girifalco, Good, and colleagues are used to extract the hydrogen bond donating (acidic), hydrogen bond accepting (basic), and nonpolar (dispersion) components of the solid surface energy from both advancing and receding contact angle measurements. It is emphasized that a proper assessment of the wetting behavior of a liquid on a surface requires consideration of the complementary acid–base interactions between the solid and the liquid, not just a determination of the polar contribution to the solid surface energy. Maximum liquid repellency is attained in composite PMMA or PEMA films with fluorodecyl POSS loadings of at least 20 wt %. Furthermore, cross-cut adhesion tests reveal that the optically transparent methacrylate-containing fluorodecyl POSS coatings adhere quite strongly to the underlying substrate, unlike the Tecnoflon-containing blends and the pure fluorodecyl POSS. These results will potentially facilitate the incorporation of fluorodecyl POSS into commercial coatings.
Josephson Vortices in Weakly-Coupled Superconductors as Topological Solitons of the Sine-Gordon Equations for Phase Differences

We present a mathematically rigorous solution of the problem of magnetic properties of weakly-coupled superconducting multilayers with an arbitrary number N≥2 of superconducting layers in external parallel magnetic fields H>0. By minimizing a relevant Gibbs free-energy functional, we show that the equilibrium vortex structure is given by a new class of soliton solutions: namely, topological solitons of a system of N−1 coupled static sine-Gordon equations for the phase differences in a finite spatial interval I=[−L, L]. A complete classification of the new soliton solutions is presented. For N=2,3, and N=∞, exact, closed-form analytical expressions are derived. The special case L=∞, H=0 is considered separately. Non-soliton solutions are also analyzed: they are shown to be saddle points of the Gibbs free-energy functional. A comparison with the experiment is drawn.
Petrology and Depositional Environment of Mitchell Member, Rodessa Formation (Lower Cretaceous), West Bradley Field, Lafayette County, Arkansas: ABSTRACT

Previous studies of the Lower Cretaceous Rodessa Formation in southern Arkansas have interpreted it as nearshore, transitional marine. Many of the Rodessa members are hydrocarbon productive. Cores from the Sun Whittington wells and Lake Ronel Oil Co. wells in and near the West Bradley field, Lafayette County, Arkansas, were studied to identify a model for deposition of the oil-productive Mitchell sand interval. The Mitchell is sandwiched between the upper and lower Gloyd members of the Rodessa Formation. These two limestone members are productive in other areas of the Arklatex. A thorough investigation of the sands, using core samples, geophysical log correlation, drilling reports, thin sections, scanning electron microscopy, and x-ray diffraction yields data necessary for establishing the nature of deposition. This information will promote interest and further development of the hydrocarbon potential of the Mitchell member in the Arklatex. End_of_Article - Last_Page 1213------------
CHEMILUMINESCENCE OF IF IN THE GAS PHASE REACTION OF I2 WITH F2

Abstract Emission from both the B 3 Π 0 + state and the previously unreported A 3 Π 1 state of IF has been observed in the gas phase reaction of I 2 with F 2 at low pressures. For the B 3 Π 0 + state the transition moment and vibrational populations were extracted from the spectra by a least-squares method whereby theoretical band shapes were fit to the experimental data. The effect of flow rates of reactants and Ar on the relative emission from the two electronic states, the effect of pressure on the B 3 Π 0 + state, and extinction of emission near 470 nm all favor the population of excited electronic states through a four-center reaction complex, rather than association of F and I atoms. It is argued that there is an avoided curve crossing between the lowest two 3 Π 0 + states of IF, and that the ground state dissociation energy is 23 229 ± 100 cm −1 . The radiative lifetime of the B 3 Π 0 + state is estimated to be 10 −3 sec and to be much shorter than that of the A 3 Π 1 state.
Astaxanthin in the blue oceanic barnacle Lepas fascicularis.

Die blaue Farbe der ozeanischen Cirripedien,Lepas fascicularis, wird als Chromoproteid mit Astaxanthin als Carotinoidkomponente identifiziert.
On normal characteristic classes of bounded manifolds

THEOREM 2.2. Let M be a smooth, compact, n-dimensional manifold with boundary 8M. Suppose M embeds smoothly in R”” with normal bundle v. Let 9’ be a set of Z-graded multiplicative cohomology theories, h E 9, and CY an h-valued characteristic class for r-plane bundles which vanishes on r-plane bundles which admit a nowhere -zero cross -section. Suppose, for some k E 9, v has a k-orientation in k’(D(v), S(v)), where D(v), S(v) denote the unit disc and sphere bundles, respectively, of v relative to some Riemannian metric on v. Suppose t is an integer such that i*: k’-‘(M)+ k’-‘(JM) is the O-homomorphism, where i: aM + M denotes the inclusion map. Then ,Y(a(v)) fl k’(M) = 0.
Pharmacokinetics of Topically Applied Radiolabeled Retinoids in Hairless Mouse Epidermis and Dermis After Single Applications

The retention of tritium-labeled all- trans -retinoic acid (RA), 13- cis -retinoic acid (13- cis -RA), aromatic retinoid, and arotinoid ethyl ester in the epidermis and dermis of hairless mice was measured up to 24 h following a single topical application in an acetone vehicle. The radioactivity in the tissues was extractable with chloroform:methanol, and the identities of the radioactive species extracted were confirmed as retinoids using thin-layer chromatography. All the retinoids were absorbed into the skin rapidly. After an initial period of distribution and penetration (lasting for about 1 h) the amount of the applied retinoid remaining in the epidermis and dermis decreased more slowly, obeying first order (exponential) decay kinetics. Both the arotinoid and the aromatic retinoid persisted for longer in the epidermis than equivalent doses of RA or 13- cis -RA. The half-lives of the retinoids in the dermis tended to be longer than in the epidermis, except for the arotinoid. Aromatic retinoid persisted for longest in the dermis with a half-life of 11 h.
Sodium Nitroprusside and Cerebral Blood Flow in the Anesthetized and Unanesthetized Goat

The effects of dodium nitroprusside (SNP) on total, ipsilateral cerebral blood flow (CBF) in the unanesthetized and anesthetized goat was evaluated under four conditions: 1) bolus injection of SNP into the cerebral circulation via the temporal artery; 2) continuous infusion of SNP into the temporal artery in amounts too small to affect the peripheral circulation (0.57-1.14 mug/kg/min); 3) intravenous infusion of SNP; 4) continuous intravenous infusion of SNP with a bolus injection af angiotensin. Small doses (20, 40, and 80 mug) of SNP injected directly in the cerebral circulation of the awake goat produced immediate increases of 21 +/- 8, 36 +/- 8, and 48+/- 10 per cent, respectively, in CBF lasting 1 to 3 min without causing peripheral cardiovascular changes. The effects of SNP were attenuated by 1.5 per cent halothane anesthesia. Continuous infusion of SNP into the temporal artery in amounts too small to cause peripheral cardiovascular effects produced sustained increases in CBF averaging 31+/- 8 percent; CBF returned to preinfusion values upon cessation of infusion. Intravenous infusion of SNP in both anesthetized and unanesthetized animals in recommended clinical dosages (3-8 mug/kg/min) produced hypotension but did not significantly alter CBF. However, upon injection of angiotensin (1.43 mug/kg), both peripheral blood pressure and CBF increased sharply, suggesting that SNP may impair autoregulation of CBF. The results of this study indicate that SNP dilates the cerebral vascular system in a way that is probably similar to its effects on other vascular beds.
Cell saver and radical retropubic prostatectomy: analysis of cost-effectiveness.

Abstract Objectives To determine the effectiveness of using cell saver suction during radical prostatectomy to decrease the risk of random donor transfusions in patients predonating blood, as well as to compare costs. Methods From March 1992 to October 1993, two consecutive groups of 86 patients underwent radical retropubic prostatectomy. The first group utilized predonated blood alone, and the second group utilized cell saver suction and predonated blood. The two groups were compared with respect to their transfusion records, preoperative and discharge hemoglobins, and estimated blood losses to determine the usefulness of cell saver suction during radical retropubic prostatectomy. Results There was no statistical difference in the rate of random donor blood transfusions between these two evenly matched groups of patients. The risk of receiving random donor transfusions was decreased to 5% by having 4 U of blood predonated by or for the patient prior to radical prostatectomy. Conclusions For patients who are able to predonate blood, cell saver suction is neither cost-effective nor useful in decreasing the risk of receiving random donor blood transfusions.
Guest Eidtors' Introduction Limits on computations

Each year, computers grow more powerful, and we use them to solve increasingly complex and important problems. In this issue, we explore some limits to this growth.
Guided-wave multiwavelength polarization-insensitive processing module for a parallel multicomparand perfect-match algorithm.

We present a design for a planar guided-wave polarization-insensitive (intensity-based) optoelectronics module that provides a parallel perfect-match search for database and text processing. The module is based on a content-addressable memory model for parallel information retrieval. We propose the use of planar guided-wave optics with multiwavelength processing to achieve a substantially high degree of performance and parallelism. Based on initial performance analysis, the proposed module is capable of achieving an aggregate processing speed of 1012 bits/s.
Escherichia coli evolution during stationary phase.

Abstract The process of evolution by natural selection has been known for a century and a half, yet the mechanics of selection are still poorly understood. In most cases where natural selection has been studied, the genetic and physiological bases of fitness variation that result in population changes were not identified, leaving only a partial understanding of selection. Starved cultures of the bacterium Escherichia coli present a model system with which to address the genetic and physiological bases of natural selection. This is a model system that also reflects the prevalent state of bacteria in the natural world; due to intense competition for nutrients, microorganisms spend the majority of their lives under starvation conditions. Genetic analyses of a single survivor of starvation identified four adaptive mutations1. Investigation of these mutations has revealed insights into the molecular and physiological bases of evolution during prolonged starvation stress.
Asymmetric information A laboratory experimental analysis

Abstract Modern information systems technology, including expanded availability of local area networks, provides potentially fertile means for studying information related problems across functional business areas. Our work demonstrates the development and use of a networked system designed to investigate a traditionally controversial problem in financial markets, the impact of insider information. The research methodology used to tackle this issue incorporates the use of a networked system that we developed to conduct carefully controlled laboratory experiments. We emphasize this methodology as an alternative to techniques using recorded historical market data. The latter approaches are limited by an inability to accurately identify which traders possess and access inside information. Our system incorporates a communication and recording network among work stations with each station possessing stand alone decision support system capabilities. We demonstrate use of the system and present the results and accompanying analyses of a series of experiments relating to impacts of inside information.
Analysis of braced excavations with coupled finite element formulations

Abstract Parametric studies of braced excavation behavior based on a coupled finite element formulation are presented to evaluate the current state-of-the-art. Effects of constitutive model, boundary conditions, and details of the construction process including sheet-pile installation and amount of overexcavation are considered in the analyses. Capabilities of current methods to replicate various aspects of observed performance are presented. The relative effect of each of the modeling aspects are illustrated by comparing results of both boundary displacement and stress-controlled simulations of construction with observed performance of a 40 ft deep cut through saturated clay.
Levels of Analysis and Effects: Clarifying Group Influence and Climate by Separating Individual and Group Effects

This article addresses conceptual and methodological levels of analysis issues in research on work group and organizational settings. Using organizational climate data, it provides a detailed example of the use of a recent data analysis model (Kenny & La Voie, 1985) which separates individual and group effects. The reanalysis of an earlier study of organizational climate influences on three dependent variables (Giamartino & Wandersman, 1983) revealed that several important relationships between climate dimensions and the dependent variables were masked in the earlier study. Implications for potential misinterpretations within existing group and organizational research are drawn and suggestions for addressing theoretical and measurement problems involving climate research are offered.
Novel Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Enigmols as Therapeutic Agents for Treating Prostate Cancer

Enigmol is a synthetic, orally active 1-deoxysphingoid base analogue that has demonstrated promising activity against prostate cancer. In these studies, the pharmacologic roles of stereochemistry and N-methylation in the structure of enigmols were examined. A novel enantioselective synthesis of all four possible 2S-diastereoisomers of enigmol (2-aminooctadecane-3,5-diols) from l-alanine is reported, which features a Liebeskind−Srogl cross-coupling reaction between l-alanine thiol ester and (E)-pentadec-1-enylboronic acid as the key step. In vitro biological evaluation of the four enigmol diastereoisomers and 2S,3S,5S-N-methylenigmol against two prostate cancer cell lines (PC-3 and LNCaP) indicates that all but one diastereomer demonstrate potent oncolytic activity. In nude mouse xenograft models of human prostate cancer, enigmol was equally effective as standard prostate cancer therapies (androgen deprivation or docetaxel), and two of the enigmol diastereomers, 2S,3S,5R-enigmol and 2S,3R,5S-enigmol, also ...
Investigation of trunk muscle co-contraction and its association with low back pain development during prolonged sitting

Abstract Previous work has shown muscle activation differences between chronic low back pain patients and healthy controls in sitting postures, and between asymptomatic individuals who do (PDs: pain developers) and do not (NPDs: non-pain developers) develop transient back pain during prolonged standing (as determined using a visual analog scale). The current study aimed to investigate differences in trunk muscle co-contraction between PD and NPD individuals over 2h of prolonged sitting. Ten healthy males sat continuously for 2h while performing tasks that simulated computer-aided-drafting; four were classified as PDs, and six as NPDs. Co-contraction indices were calculated from EMG data collected from eight trunk muscles bilaterally, and compared between pain groups and over time. PDs exhibited higher levels of co-contraction than NPDs. Additionally, co-contraction tended to increase over time, and was significantly correlated to pain development. The relationship between co-contraction and back pain development may actually be circular, in that it is both causal and adaptive: high co-contraction initially predisposes to pain development, following which co-contraction further increases in an attempt to alleviate the pain, and the cycle perpetuates. Further work will be required to elucidate the exact nature of this relationship, and to confirm the generalizability to other populations.
Roles of Dopamine 2 Receptor Isoforms and G Proteins in Ethanol Regulated Prolactin Synthesis and Lactotropic Cell Proliferation

Alcohol consumption has been shown to increase prolactin (PRL) production and cell proliferation of pituitary lactotropes. It also causes a reduction in the lactotrope's response to dopaminergic agents and a differential expression of dopamine 2 receptor short (D2S) and long (D2L) isoforms in the pituitary. However, the role of each of these D2 receptor isoforms and its coupled G protein in mediation of ethanol actions on lactotropes is not known. We have addressed this issue by comparing ethanol effects on the level of PRL production gene transcription rate cellular protein, G proteins and cell proliferation in enriched lactotropes and lactotrope-derived PR1 cells containing various D2 receptor isoforms. Additionally, we determined the effects of G protein blockade on ethanol-induced PRL production and cell proliferation in these cells. We show here that the D2 receptor, primarily the D2S isoform, is critically involved in the regulation of ethanol actions on PRL production and cell proliferation in lactotropes. We also present data to elucidate that the presence of the pertussis toxin (PTX)-sensitive D2S receptor is critical to mediate the ethanol stimulatory action on Gs and the ethanol's inhibitory action on Gi3 protein in lactotropes. Additionally, we provide evidence for the existence of an inhibitory action of Gi3 on Gs that is under the control of the D2S receptor and is inhibited by ethanol. These results suggest that ethanol via the inhibitory action on D2S receptor activity suppresses Gi3 repression of Gs expression resulting in stimulation of PRL synthesis and cell proliferation in lactotropes.
Quantum-dot based avalanche photodiodes for mid-infrared sensing

A mid-infrared sensor is proposed in which an intersubband quantum-dot (QD) detector is integrated with an avalanche photodiode (APD) through a tunnel barrier. In the proposed three-terminal device, the applied biases of the QD and the APD are controlled separately; this feature permits the control of the QD's responsivity and dark current independently of the operational gain of the APD. It is shown theoretically that the proposed device can achieve a higher signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) over the QD detector without the APD component. Indeed, prior studies have revealed that although a heterostructure barrier lowers both the dark current and the photocurrent of the QD detector, the barrier has a greater impact on the dark current. Thus the dark-current-limited SNR is enhanced in the presence of the barrier. However, due to the reduced photocurrent, the SNR may not achieve its potential in the presence of Johnson noise, which may become dominant, for example, at low integration times or when detecting ultra-weak signals. In the proposed device, the APD component provides the necessary photocurrent gain required to elevate the SNR to the dark-current limit. This improvement, however, comes at a slight penalty in the SNR, due to the excess noise introduced by the APD. In this paper, guidelines for the SNR improvement are discussed in terms of the QD's operational bias voltage and the required APD gain. The higher SNR could be used to obtain a higher sensitivity at the same temperature, or to achieve a comparable performance at higher operating temperatures.
Effects of a cost-sharing exemption on use of preventive services at one large employer.

In 2004, Alcoa introduced a new health benefit for a portion of its workforce, which eliminated cost sharing for preventive care while increasing cost sharing for many other services. In this era of increased consumerism, Alcoa’s benefit redesign constituted an effort to reduce health care costs while preserving use of targeted services. Taking advantage of a unique natural experiment, we find that Alcoa was able to maintain rates of preventive service use. This evidence suggests that differential cost sharing can be used to preserve the use of critical health care services.
Supporting views in data stream management systems

In relational database management systems, views supplement basic query constructs to cope with the demand for “higher-level” views of data. Moreover, in traditional query optimization, answering a query using a set of existing materialized views can yield a more efficient query execution plan. Due to their effectiveness, views are attractive to data stream management systems. In order to support views over streams, a data stream management system should employ a closed (or composable) continuous query language. A closed query language is a language in which query inputs and outputs are interpreted in the same way, hence allowing query composition.This article introduces the Synchronized SQL (or SyncSQL) query language that defines a data stream as a sequence of modify operations against a relation. SyncSQL enables query composition through the unified interpretation of query inputs and outputs. An important issue in continuous queries over data streams is the frequency by which the answer gets refreshed and the conditions that trigger the refresh. Coarser periodic refresh requirements are typically expressed as sliding windows. In this article, the sliding window approach is generalized by introducing the synchronization principle that empowers SyncSQL with a formal mechanism to express queries with arbitrary refresh conditions. After introducing the semantics and syntax, we lay the algebraic foundation for SyncSQL and propose a query-matching algorithm for deciding containment of SyncSQL expressions. Then, the article introduces the Nile-SyncSQL prototype to support SyncSQL queries. Nile-SyncSQL employs a pipelined incremental evaluation paradigm in which the query pipeline consists of a set of differential operators. A cost model is developed to estimate the cost of SyncSQL query execution pipelines and to choose the best execution plan from a set of different plans for the same query. An experimental study is conducted to evaluate the performance of Nile-SyncSQL. The experimental results illustrate the effectiveness of Nile-SyncSQL and the significant performance gains when views are enabled in data stream management systems.
Architectures and Auctions in Manufacturing

This paper presents some issues which have arisen during the course of a research project which examines methods for operating large computer-controlled manufacturing systems, with over 50 or so CNC machines. Some issues concerning manufacturing architectures are presented and summarized. The requirement for a CAN-Q style design tool for opportunistic, heterarchical systems is identified, and difficulties in building such a tool described. This involves a discussion of the problems of applying queuing theory to auction-based dispatch rules, along with some initial empirical insights into the behaviour of these systems. Ongoing research on heterarchical systems is described, along with the technological advances on which practical implementation depends.
Effect of dietary fatty acid composition on depot fat and exercise performance in a migrating songbird, the red-eyed vireo.

SUMMARY Most migrating birds accumulate lipid stores as their primary source of energy for fueling long distance flights. Lipid stores of birds during migration are composed of mostly unsaturated fatty acids; whether such a fatty acid composition enhances exercise performance of birds is unknown. We tested this hypothesis by measuring metabolic rate at rest and during intense exercise in two groups of red-eyed vireos, a long-distance migratory passerine, fed either a diet containing 82% unsaturated fat (82%U), or one containing 58% unsaturated fat (58%U). Vireos fed the 82%U diet had fat stores containing (77%) unsaturated fatty acids, whereas vireos fed the 58% U diet had fat stores containing less (66%) unsaturated fatty acids. Blood metabolites measured prior to and immediately following exercise confirmed that vireos were metabolizing endogenous fat during intense exercise. Mass-specific resting metabolic rate (RMR) was similar for vireos fed the 58%U diet (2.75±0.32 ml O 2 g –1 h –1 ) and for vireos fed the 82%U diet (2.30±0.30 ml O 2 g –1 h –1 ). However, mass-specific peak metabolic rate (MR peak ) was 25% higher in vireos fed the 58%U diet (28.55±1.47 ml O 2 g –1 h –1 ) than in vireos fed the 82%U diet (21.50±1.76 ml O 2 g –1 h –1 ). Such whole-animal energetic effects of fatty acid composition of birds suggest that the energetic cost of migration in birds may be affected by the fatty acid composition of the diet.
Thoughts on Romanticism and Gender

After situating the genesis of Romanticism and Gender within the academic and political debates of the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s and summarizing the book's distinction between “masculine” and “feminine” Romanticism, this essay turns to the book's impact on more recent academic monographs, articles, anthologies, and curricula. The essay ends by outlining a program of what remains to be done to ensure that the question “What difference does gender make to our understanding of Romantic-era literature?” is more fully answered.
Band theoretic interpretation of neutron scattering experiments in metallic ferromagnets

Abstract Magnetic excitations in the 3d transition metal ferromagnets nickel and iron have been found to possess unusual properties not found in other magnetic systems. For example, inelastic neutron scattering experiments have revealed that spinwaves do not exist at wave-vectors above a particular cut-off value while below this cut-off point they have been observed well above the Curie temperature. This behaviour is not consistent with predictions of localized spin models but can be explained by the band theoretic, or itinerant electron theory. In fact, first principles calculations of the low temperature neutron scattering cross-section based on the itinerant model have been shown to be in excellent agreement with experiment. In addition, the prediction of an optical spin-wave mode has been recently confirmed. The finite temperature extrapolation of the low temperature theory based on the traditional concept of a temperature-dependent spin-splitting of the electronic energy bands appears to be inconsistent with experiment. A more realistic first principles approach to develop a correct finite temperature theory is under investigation.
Specific Inhibition of Anti- D by Human Urinary Mucoprotein

SIALIC acid and polymers containing sialic acid1–3 have been shown to specifically inhibit agglutination of Rho(D) red blood cells by specific antiserum. Urinary mucoprotein, which consists of 9.1 per cent sialic acid4 in terms of total mucoprotein, was therefore considered as a possible inhibitor of anti-Rh. The other sugars which make up the prosthetic group of this molecule have been shown not to block specifically Rh agglutination5.
Reflection and implantation of low energy helium with tungsten surfaces

Abstract Reflection and implantation of low energy helium (He) ions by tungsten (W) substrate are studied using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Motivated by the ITER divertor design, our study considers a range of W substrate temperatures (300 K, 1000 K, 1500 K), a range of He atom incidence energies ( ⩽ 100 eV) and a range of angles of incidence (0–75°) with respect to substrate normal. The MD simulations quantify the reflection and implantation function, the integrated moments such as the particle/energy reflection coefficients and average implantation depths. Distributions of implantation depths, reflected energy, polar and azimuthal angles of reflection are obtained, as functions of simulation parameters, such as W substrate temperature, polar angle of incidence, the energy of incident He, and the type of W substrate surface. Comparison between the MD simulation results, the results obtained using SRIM simulation package, and the existing experimental and theoretical results is provided.
Vascularized bone grafts in the treatment of infected forearm nonunions

Infected nonunions of both-bone forearm fractures may not respond to conventional treatment. Four patients with infected nonunions were successfully treated with vascularized fibular grafts and conversion to a one-bone forearm after failure of as many as six procedures. The fibula was fixed to the ulna proximally and the radius distally with internal fixation, and this was supplemented with an external fixator in three of the four patients. All wounds healed and all bone junctures healed primarily with the exception of one that required supplemental cancellous grafting. Free vascularized fibular grafts should be considered for infected nonunions that are unresponsive to properly executed conventional surgical and antibiotic treatment.