cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Enhancement of Reconstruction Accuracy of the HELS Method

The validity of the HELS method (Wu, 2000) for reconstructing the acoustic pressure field inside the minimum circle that encloses an arbitrary object is examined. Results show that the HELS solutions are approximate and the corresponding matrix equation is ill conditioned in general for back propagation of the acoustic field. Accordingly, the further the reconstruction point moves inside the minimum circle, the worse the reconstruction accuracy becomes. To overcome this difficulty new strategy for sensor placement is proposed. This strategy together with a constrained minimization are shown to yield satisfactory reconstruction inside the minimum circle. The same procedures can be extended to three-dimensional problems.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Stress and conflict conditions leading to and maintaining voluntary alcohol consumption in rats

Four experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of unavoidable shock, conflict conditions, taste, and food deprivation on the voluntary consumption of alcohol by rats. Experiment 1 showed that when rats were given unavoidable shocks for one hour every day, those living in their home cages consumed greater amounts of a 5% ethanol solution than did rats living in the shock chambers. Experiment 2 revealed that this increased alcohol consumption was maintained and further elevated when these same rats were subjected to conflict, and it did not decrease when the conflict conditions were terminated. When the unavoidable shock conditions were repeated in Experiment 3 with naive rats and the fluid choice consisted of a plain sucrose solution and one containing alcohol, rats in both the shock box and safety cage living conditions consumed very little of the sucrose-plus-alcohol solution. Rats living in the aversive environment even decreased consumption of the plain sucrose solution. Experiment 4 showed that simple food deprivation can also result in an increased intake of an alcohol solution. The tension reduction hypothesis cannot account for these results: they demonstrate that deprivation can influence alcohol consumption, and indicate that an aversive environment can interfere with drinking of any solution. The results also demonstrate both the positive and negative properties that alcohol can have.
The Impact of Religious Faith and Internalized Homonegativity on Resiliency for Black Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Emerging Adults

Religious faith has been instrumental in fostering positive mental health outcomes for historically disenfranchised populations, such as Black Americans. However, the religious institutional devaluing of same-sex behavior and identity fuels internalized homonegativity (i.e., negative thoughts regarding one's same-sex sexual behavior) for nonheterosexual congregants. This study sought to examine the relations between religious faith, internalized homonegativity, and resiliency for Black lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) emerging adults. One hundred seventy-five Black LGB emerging adults, ranging in age between 18 and 25 years old, completed an online survey designed to examine multiple identities and psychological well-being. Utilizing hierarchical linear regression, we found that internalized homonegativity moderated the relationship between religious faith and resiliency. Religious faith was a significant contributor to resiliency when the participant concurrently reported high internalized homonegativity. This finding highlights the importance of understanding the complex interplay of religious faith, internalized homonegativity, and resiliency for Black LGB emerging adults.
The subcortical dysfunction hypothesis of memory deficits in depression: neuropsychological validation in a subgroup of patients.

Abstract The subcortical dysfunction hypothesis of verbal learning and memory deficits in depression was evaluated by comparing the memory test profiles of unipolar depressives (n=40) and bipolar depressives (n=9) with those of patients with a prototypical subcortical dementia (Huntington's disease, HD), patients with a prototypical cortical dementia (Alzheimer's disease, AD), and normal controls. In a discriminant function analysis that well-differentiated the HD, AD, and normal subjects, it was found that 28.6% of the depressed patients were classified as HD patients (DEP-HD subjects), 49.0% were classified as normals (DEP-N subjects), none were classified as AD patients, and 22.4% were not well-classified. The DEP-HD group closely resembled the HD group on additional indices of verbal learning and memory, and differed from the DEP-N group, which strongly resembled the normal control group. DEP-N patients also performed significantly better than DEP-HD patients on a number of other neuropsychological te...
Extending practice – Accountants’ constructions of the industrial relations arena in the USA

This paper examines the historical means by which accountancy, as a mature profession, has sought to expand its practice to new areas of business. Accountancy has long been eager to satisfy perceived client needs, and in so doing foster an ever widening scope for accounting expertise. However, as the profession faces the end of a boom in audit services, the question of how its markets can be self‐consciously expanded has re‐emerged. To understand the dynamics of professional expansion we examine the way in which accountants attempted to develop their practice in the US industrial relations arena shortly after the Second World War, amid the charged industrial relations climate of the time. By examining professional discourse, as evidenced in practitioner journals, we explore accountants’ constructions of potential roles for themselves in this new field. The means by which the profession has redefined itself previously may be instructive as an element in the development of fresh markets for its services.
A Legacy of Strife: Rebellious Slaves in Sixteenth-Century Panamá

A major uprising carried out by rebel slaves—whom the Spanish termed cimarrones 1—wracked the Isthmus of Panama in 1555–1556. A generation later, a group of sixteenth-century chroniclers bestowed t...
Early chronic kidney disease-mineral bone disorder stimulates vascular calcification.

The chronic kidney disease–mineral and bone disorder (CKD–MBD) syndrome is an extremely important complication of kidney diseases. Here we tested whether CKD–MBD causes vascular calcification in early kidney failure by developing a mouse model of early CKD in a background of atherosclerosis-stimulated arterial calcification. CKD equivalent in glomerular filtration reduction to human CKD stage 2 stimulated early vascular calcification and inhibited the tissue expression of α-klotho (klotho) in the aorta. In addition, osteoblast transition in the aorta was stimulated by early CKD as shown by the expression of the critical transcription factor Runx2. The ligand associated with the klotho-fibroblast growth factor receptor complex, FGF23, was found to be expressed in the vascular media of sham-operated mice. Its expression was decreased in early CKD. Increased circulating levels of the osteocyte-secreted proteins, FGF23, and sclerostin may have been related to increased circulating klotho levels. Finally, we observed low-turnover bone disease with a reduction in bone formation rates more than bone resorption. Thus, the CKD–MBD, characterized by cardiovascular risk factors, vascular calcification, increased circulating klotho, FGF23 and sclerostin levels, and low-turnover renal osteodystrophy, was established in early CKD. Early CKD caused a reduction of vascular klotho, stimulated vascular osteoblastic transition, increased osteocytic secreted proteins, and inhibited skeletal modeling producing the CKD–MBD.
Obstructive heart defects associated with candidate genes, maternal obesity, and folic acid supplementation.

Right-sided and left-sided obstructive heart defects (OHDs) are subtypes of congenital heart defects, in which the heart valves, arteries, or veins are abnormally narrow or blocked. Previous studies have suggested that the development of OHDs involved a complex interplay between genetic variants and maternal factors. Using the data from 569 OHD case families and 1644 control families enrolled in the National Birth Defects Prevention Study (NBDPS) between 1997 and 2008, we conducted an analysis to investigate the genetic effects of 877 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 60 candidate genes for association with the risk of OHDs, and their interactions with maternal use of folic acid supplements, and pre-pregnancy obesity. Applying log-linear models based on the hybrid design, we identified a SNP in methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene (C677T polymorphism) with a main genetic effect on the occurrence of OHDs. In addition, multiple SNPs in betaine-homocysteine methyltransferase (BHMT and BHMT2) were also identified to be associated with the occurrence of OHDs through significant main infant genetic effects and interaction effects with maternal use of folic acid supplements. We also identified multiple SNPs in glutamate-cysteine ligase, catalytic subunit (GCLC) and DNA (cytosine-5-)-methyltransferase 3 beta (DNMT3B) that were associated with elevated risk of OHDs among obese women. Our findings suggested that the risk of OHDs was closely related to a combined effect of variations in genes in the folate, homocysteine, or glutathione/transsulfuration pathways, maternal use of folic acid supplements and pre-pregnancy obesity.
Man, Morals and Metaevolution

Abstract: This paper speculates on a new form of evolution that suggests that the way man evolves is essentially different from that of all other forms of animals or plants. It is postulated that evolution has proceeded through three phases, and that mankind is moving into phase IV with additional phases possible. Phase I consists of the systematic changes seen in the origin of the universe through physico-chemical evolution. Phase II is that in which living organisms appear and evolve in form and function. When mammals reached a certain complexity, Phase III became possible. In Phase III culture replaces natural selection as the adaptive mechanism. The author further postulates that mankind is moving into Phase IV in which it is argued selfconscious cooperative behavior is necessary for future adaptation and development.
Intravascular Talcosis due to Intravenous Drug Use Is an Underrecognized Cause of Pulmonary Hypertension

Intravenous injection of illegal drugs or medications meant for oral administration can cause granulomatous disease of the lung. This intravascular talcosis results in pulmonary fibrosis and pulmonary hypertension. Nine cases of histologically confirmed intravascular talcosis were reviewed with specific attention given to the clinical histories in these patients. Five autopsy cases were included in this series with detailed investigation in the anatomic features associated with intravascular talcosis and pulmonary hypertension. All nine patients showed perivascular and/or intravascular deposition of polarizable foreign material in their lungs. Intravascular talcosis as a result of previous intravenous drug use was not clinically suspected in any patient despite clinically diagnosed pulmonary hypertension in five. All patients showed dilatation of the right and left heart, but none had dilatation of the aortic valve. Congestive heart failure with hepatosplenomegaly was also common. We conclude that intravascular talcosis is an underdiagnosed cause of pulmonary hypertension in patients with known history of intravenous drug use.
Unraveling the Myths of Accountability: A Case Study of the California High School Exit Exam

Believing that accountability could be a vehicle for change, the California Department of Education (CDE) requires all high school students to pass the Calfornia High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE) in order to graduate. In doing so, California joins many others states in mandating a high school exit exam as a current or future requirement for graduation. In this essay, the authors will argue that this testing approach to school change is based on myths about the role of assessment, the information testing can provide and the impact high stakes testing has on urban schools. Although California is the focus of this analysis, these issues are salient across the county. Testing as a solution to poor student achievement is based on faulty assumptions. It is these assumptions this piece seeks to address.
Synthesis and structural characterization of a thioether-bridged commo-metallabis(dicarbollide) species: a model system for Venus flytrap cluster reagents1Dedicated to Professor Ken Wade on the occasion of his 65th birthday and in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the fields of organometallic and inorganic chemistry.1

Abstract Recently we reported the synthesis and characterization of the first in a series of ether-bridged commo-metallabisdicarbollide complexes for use as model compounds in the development of radiotransition metal carriers. We now report the synthesis and crystal structure of a thioether analog, meso-4. The methyltriphenylphosphonium salt of meso-4 was prepared in a four-step process from dipropargyl thioether. Compound meso-4 crystallized in the monoclinic space group P21/c with a=13.710(7), b=18.233(10) and c=13.896(7) A, β=99.43(2)°, V=3427 A3, and Z=4. Data were collected using MoKα radiation to a maximum 2θ=60°, giving 8135 unique reflections. The structure was solved using direct methods. The final discrepancy index was R=0.069, Rw=0.088 for 4902 independent reflections with I>3σ(I). The thioether, 4, was subsequently oxidized to yield the corresponding sulphone, 5.
Active localization of the retinoblastoma protein in chromatin and its response to S phase DNA damage.

Abstract The Rb protein suppresses development of an abnormal state of endoreduplication arising after S phase DNA damage. In diploid, S phase cells, the activity of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) licenses the stable association of un(der)phosphorylated Rb with chromatin. After damage, chromatin–associated pRb is attracted to certain chromosomal replication initiation sites in the order in which they normally fire. Like S phase DNA damage in Rb −/− cells, specific interruption of PP2A function in irradiated, S phase wt cells also elicited a state of endoreduplication. Thus, PP2A normally licenses the recruitment of Rb to chromatin sites in S phase from which, after DNA damage, it relocalizes to selected replication control sites and suppresses abnormal, postdamage rereplicative activity.
Comparison between sequential and concurrent matings of two females and one male channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, in spawning pens

Abstract In selective breeding of channel catfish, it is desirable to mate, in the same breeding season, each one of a large number of males to more than one female. This experiment compared sequential and concurrent matings of two females and one male in 36 individual spawning pens. The number of females that spawned in the former group was higher (74%) than in the latter (57%); the numbers of males spawning in each group were similar (135 vs 130%, respectively). These differences are associated with (1) a higher female mortality in concurrent (30%) than sequential matings (3%), and (2) a smaller difference in frequencies of double-spawning males (40 vs 47%, respectively). It was concluded that neither the sequential nor concurrent methods tested could satisfy the needs of selective breeding, even though the former method was closer to this objective.
The dextro and levorotatory isomers of N-phenylisopropyladenosine: stereospecific effects on cyclic AMP-formation and evoked synaptic responses in brain slices.

The stereoisomers of N6-phenylisopropyladenosine elicit accumulations of cyclic AMP in brain slices via interaction with adenosine-receptors. The response in guinea pig cerebral cortical slices and in rat hippocampal slices is blocked by theophylline and potentiated by biogenic amines. A chelator, EGTA, potentiates the response to phenylisopropyladenosine in guinea pig cerebral cortical slices. The 1-isomer (EC50 25 μM) is four- to five-fold more potent than the d-isomer in eliciting accumulations of cyclic AMP in brain slices. In a rat coronal hippocampal slice in vitro, 1-phenylisopropyladenosine (IC50 ∼ 0.7 μM) reduces the amplitude of evoked synaptic responses generated via a monosynaptic pathway to the CA1 pyramidal neurons. The d-isomer is nearly one hundred-fold less potent. Thus, the adenosine-receptors involved in the electrophysical response appear much more stereoselective for the 1-isomer of phenylisopropyladenosine than the adenosine-receptors involved in cyclic AMP-generation in brain slices.
Dopamine-sensitive adenylate cyclase within laminae of the olfactory tubercle

Summary There are three histological laminae within the rat olfactory tubercle: plexiform, pyramidal and polymorphic. We have assayed dopamine-sensitive adenylate cyclase in homogenates of frozen sections cut parallel to these laminae. Consecutive sections were cut of alternating thickness, 16 μm and 100 μm. The 16 μm sections were stained with toluidine blue to ascertain the depth and orientation of each section. The 100 μm sections were homogenized and assayed for dopamine-sensitive adenylate cyclase. Substantial levels of dopamine-sensitive adenylate cyclase were found within all three laminae. The results suggest that the enzyme occurs in cell processes, including dendrites, of the plexiform layer, and they are consistent with the localization of dopamine-sensitive adenylate cyclase in the pyramidal cells.
Seedling growth of co-occurring Shorea species in the simulated light environments of a rain forest

Abstract Four tree species of Shorea section Doona ( Shorea megistophylla, Shorea trapezifolia, Shorea disticha, Shorea worthingtonii ) were investigated for differences in seedling growth among related species. These species occur together as canopy emergents in rain forest of southwest Sri Lanka. Seedlings of each species were grown in light treatments that simulated a range of light environments found in the groundstorey of the rain forest. Seedlings of S. megistophylla grew most in the full-sun treatment. The other species grew tallest in treatments that provided partial shade or lower amounts of direct sunlight. For two of these species, S. disticha and S. worthingtonii , greatest proportions of seedling dry mass allocated to roots were in either dark-understorey shade or long durations of direct sunlight. Seedlings of S. megistophylla allocated the greatest proportion of dry mass to roots in the full-sun treatment. In the dark-understorey shade seedlings of S. trapezifolia had the least proportion of dry mass allocated to roots compared with the other species. This might predispose S. trapezifolia to more stress during drought periods. Under treatments providing high amounts of light S. megistophylla increased leaf area by increasing the size of its leaves. For S. worthingtonii and S. trapezifolia , leaf area increased by the production of more leaves rather than by an increase in area of individual leaves. Leaf area increase by number was less marked for S. disticha . Findings suggest an explanation for the co-existence of these Shorea species in this rain forest. High light environments like that in the centre of a large canopy disturbance promotes growth of S. megistophylla seedlings. Smaller canopy openings that expose seedlings to some direct sunlight favour growth of S. trapezifolia and S. disticha . Light regimes of the forest understorey and gap edge favour seedling growth of the more shade-tolerant S. worthingtonii .
Nitric oxide attenuates platelet-activating factor priming for elastase release in human neutrophils via a cyclic guanosine monophosphate-dependent pathway☆☆☆

Abstract Background . Nitric oxide (NO) has proven benefits in treating adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The protective mechanism remains unclear, but cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)-dependent signal transduction pathways have been suggested. Our laboratory has implicated polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN) priming and subsequent activation in the pathogenesis of postinjury ARDS and has shown that NO inhibits superoxide anion production from activated PMNs. More recently, the pivotal role of elastase in PMN-mediated tissue injury has been emphasized. Consequently, our study hypothesis was that NO attenuates platelet-activating factor (PAF) priming for elastase release through a cGMP-dependent pathway in human PMNs. Methods . PMNs isolated from human volunteers were preincubated with the NO donor 3-morpholinosydnonimine hydrochloride (SIN-1; 10 −6 to 10 −2 mol/L), cGMP (10 −3 mol/L), or the cell-permeable cGMP analog dibutyryl-cGMP (10 −3 mol/L) for 10 minutes. The cells were then primed with platelet-activating factor (PAF) 1-O-alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (200 nmol/L), which was followed by N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP) activation (1 μmol/L). Elastase release was measured by the cleavage of N-methoxysuccinyl-Ala-Ala-Pro-Val p-nitroanilide (AAPV-pNA). Results . NO (through SIN-1) significantly attenuated elastase release from PAF-primed PMNs in a dose-dependent manner. Cell-permeable dibutyryl-cGMP attenuated PMN elastase release similar to NO, but cGMP (not cell-permeable) had no effect. Conclusions . NO attenuates elastase release from PAF-primed PMNs through an intracellular cGMP-dependent signal transduction pathway. These findings may partially explain the beneficial effects of NO in the treatment of postinjury ARDS and add to our knowledge of the complex intracellular pathways involved in NO/PMN interactions.
Competitive Interactions Eliminate Unfit Embryonic Stem Cells at the Onset of Differentiation

A fundamental question in developmental biology is whether there are mechanisms to detect stem cells with mutations that, although not adversely affecting viability, would compromise their ability to contribute to further development. Here, we show that cell competition is a mechanism regulating the fitness of embryonic stem cells (ESCs). We find that ESCs displaying defective bone morphogenetic protein signaling or defective autophagy or that are tetraploid are eliminated at the onset of differentiation by wild-type cells. This elimination occurs in an apoptosis-dependent manner and is mediated by secreted factors. Furthermore, during this process, we find that establishment of differential c-Myc levels is critical and that c-Myc overexpression is sufficient to induce competitive behavior in ESCs. Cell competition is, therefore, a process that allows recognition and elimination of defective cells during the early stages of development and is likely to play important roles in tissue homeostasis and stem cell maintenance.
Sympathetic activity following paraventricular injections of glucose and insulin

Abstract The effect of microinjections of glucose and insulin into the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) on sympathetic firing rate has been examined in rats. Following the injection of insulin 144 pmoles, there was a 30% reduction in sympathetic firing rate with a minimum reached 2 minutes following the injection, and recovery to baseline within 4 minutes. Lower doses of insulin were without effect. Following the injection of glucose 138 nmoles. there was a brief 20% increase in sympathetic firing rate which peaked at 1 minute and had returned to control levels by the second minute. This effect of glucose, like that of insulin, was dose-related. When compared with injections of insulin and glucose into the ventromedial hypothalamus, injection of either substance into the PVN showed a smaller and more attenuated response, raising the possibility that the effect of these nutrients injected into the PVN may be through the small quantities which could reach the ventromedial nucleus. These studies are consistent with the hypothesis that the paraventricular nucleus is not the principal modulator of the sympathetic firing rate.
The Latent Speaker: Attaining Adult Fluency in an Endangered Language

Abstract This paper focuses on how latent knowledge of an ancestral or heritage language affects subsequent acquisition by adults. The ‘latent speaker’ is defined as an individual raised in an environment where the ancestral language was spoken but who did not become a speaker of that language. The study examines how attitudes, latent knowledge and learning settings affect the subsequent acquisition process of latent speakers of Alaskan Athabascan languages. The first phase of the study focuses on two successful adult learners and their progress towards developing fluency. The second phase includes an analysis of the backgrounds, attitudes and language proficiency of 15 beginning adult heritage language learners. The results suggest that latent speakers have a number of characteristics distinguishing them from other language learners which may both aid and inhibit language learning. Their receptive skills surpass productive skills, they remember common expressions and emotion-laden vocabulary and their pr...
Lattice effects on ferromagnetism in perovskite ruthenates

Ferromagnetism and its evolution in the orthorhombic perovskite system Sr(1-x)Ca(x)RuO3 have been widely believed to correlate with structural distortion. The recent development of high-pressure synthesis of the Ba-substituted Sr(1-y)Ba(y)RuO3 makes it possible to study ferromagnetism over a broader phase diagram, which includes the orthorhombic Imma and the cubic phases. However, the chemical substitutions introduce the A-site disorder effect on Tc, which complicates determination of the relationship between ferromagnetism and structural distortion. By clarifying the site disorder effect on Tc in several unique series of ruthenates in which the average bond length remains the same but the bond-length variance varies, we are able to demonstrate a parabolic curve of Tc versus mean bond length . A much higher Tc ∼ 177 K than that found in orthorhombic SrRuO3 can be obtained from the curve at a bond length , which makes the geometric factor t = /(√2 ) ∼ 1. This result reveals not only that the ferromagnetism in the ruthenates is extremely sensitive to the lattice strain, but also that it has an important implication for exploring the structure-property relationship in a broad range of oxides with perovskite or a perovskite-related structure.
Regional multimedia distribution of nanomaterials and associated exposures: A software platform

An integrated modeling platform was developed for assessing the potential release rates of ENMs and their environmental distribution. ENM release rates are estimated via life cycle assessment based approach by tracking the target ENM throughout its life cycle from production to release to the environment. Potential ENM exposure concentrations and mass distribution in the various environmental media (i.e., air, water soil, vegetation) are then evaluated via multimedia modeling that considers the environment as a collection of compartments linked by mechanistic intermedia transport processes. A web-based software implementation of the modeling platform enables rapid “what-if?” scenario analysis, which can be used to assess the response of environmental system to various scenarios of ENM releases, investigate the impact of geographical and meteorological parameters on ENM distribution in the environment, compare the impact of ENM production and potential releases on different regions, we well as estimate source release rates based on monitored ENM concentrations. Moreover, the present modeling platform is suitable for research and teaching regarding environmental multimedia impact assessment at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. It is envisioned that the present multimedia analysis platform can assist regulators, industry, and researchers to rapidly and critically assess the potential environmental implications of ENMs and thus ensure that nanotechnology is developed in a productive and environmentally responsible manner.
Can germplasm resources be used to increase the ascorbic acid content of stored potatoes

Freshly harvested potato tubers contain up to 50 mg/100g ascorbic acid (AA), but levels decline rapidly during cold storage. Genetic alterations to boost the AA content of stored tubers would contribute to human nutrition and might improve tuber resistance to oxidative damage during chilling. While studying the breeding potential ofSolanum phureja germplasm, we identified a 24-chromosome Phureja-haploid Tuberosum hybrid (clone I, USW5295.7) that retained a twofold higher content of tuber AA than neighboring clones after storage at 5 C. Clone I produces 2n-pollen through a mechanism genetically equivalent to first-division restitution (FDR), which transmits much of the nonadditive genetic variance for tuber yield. We now report a survey of clone I progeny showing significant family and ploidy effects on tuber AA levels during cold storage, consistent with the transmission of information for higher AA by FDR 2n-pollen. These results encourage further study of 2n-gametes and wild species germplasm to breed for increased tuber AA.
Qualitative comparison of coronary angiograms between 4 French catheters with an advanced cardiovascular injection system and 6 French catheters with manual injection.

Objectives: This study aimed to test whether advanced cardiovascular injection (ACI) via 4 French (Fr) catheters is more advantageous than manual injection with 6 Fr catheters. Background: For coronary angiography, proponents of contrast media ACI believe it utilizes smaller-diameter catheters when compared with manual injection, without compromising the quality of the angiogram, and has the potential to reduce the amount of contrast used and lessen the use of closure devices. Methods: In a prospective study, 200 consecutive patients referred for elective coronary angiography were randomized to standard 6 Fr catheters with manual injection versus 4 Fr catheters with ACI. The study's primary endpoint is the quality of the coronary angiogram. Secondary endpoints include groin complications, utilization of closure devices, and volume of contrast media. Thirty-six patients who underwent ad hoc percutaneous coronary intervention were excluded from the analysis. Results: The final analysis included 80 patients treated with 4 Fr catheters with ACI and 84 patients treated with 6 Fr catheters with manual injection. The groups had similar demographic and clinical characteristics. The quality of the angiogram was similar between groups with the exception of more left coronary sinus flush with 4 Fr catheters (3.57 ± 1.1 vs. 2.98 ± 0.9, P 0.05). Conclusions: 4 Fr diagnostic catheters with ACI offer similar quality coronary angiograms, similar rates of vascular complications, procedure duration, contrast used, and time to ambulation, but have a significantly lesser need for closure devices compared to the 6 Fr system with manual injection. © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Liquid chromatographic analysis of endogenous catecholamine release from brain slices

A simple new liquid chromatographic technique has been applied to transmitter release studies in brain slice preparations. This method, which gives direct readings of picomoles of endogenous transmitter released, has been shown to yield reliable results with a variety of brain slice manipulations.
Evolution and function of horns and hornlike organs in female ungulates

The evolutionary bases for horns, antlers, and tusks in male ungulate mammals have been extensively investigated, but the reasons for the presence or absence of hornlike organs in female ungulates have not been thoroughly reviewed. Here I examine (1) the taxonomic distribution of horns and hornlike organs in females and evidence on the evolutionary history of the trait; (2) behavioural evidence on the uses of horns and hornlike organs by females and socio-ecological correlations with female hornedness or hornlessness; and (3) evidence on the role of genes and hormones in controlling the expression of female horns. In cervids, antlered females may be rare because of a constraint to regrow antlers yearly, if at all, small social group sizes, and a direct linkage between androgen production and the initiation of antler growth. For non-cervid ungulate females, there appear to be no overriding or unifying aptive factors governing the evolutionary development of horns or hornlike organs, although the trait may be aptive in some cases.
Energy-efficient low power listening for wireless sensor networks in noisy environments

Low Power Listening (LPL) is a common MAC-layer technique for reducing energy consumption in wireless sensor networks, where nodes periodically wakeup to sample the wireless channel to detect activity. However, LPL is highly susceptible to false wakeups caused by environmental noise being detected as activity on the channel, causing nodes to spuriously wakeup in order to receive nonexistent transmissions. In empirical studies in residential environments, we observe that the false wakeup problem can significantly increase a node's duty cycle, compromising the benefit of LPL. We also find that the energy-level threshold used by the Clear Channel Assessment (CCA) mechanism to detect channel activity has a significant impact on the false wakeup rate. We then design AEDP, an adaptive energy detection protocol for LPL, which dynamically adjusts a node's CCA threshold to improve network reliability and duty cycle based on application-specified bounds. Empirical experiments in both controlled tests and real-world environments showed AEDP can effectively mitigate the impact of noise on radio duty cycles, while maintaining satisfactory link reliability.
Septal lesions and active avoidance performance in rats: Effects of differential intrabox cues

Abstract In two separate experiments, male rats received septal lesions and were compared to operated controls on the acquisition of a two-way active avoidance task. In both experiments, an automated active avoidance apparatus (Lafayette Instrument Co.) was used, and the animals were tested 10 trials each day, 6 days/week. The CS was a tone, and the US was a 0.7 mA shock; the CS-US interval was 7 seconds. In Experiment 1, the rats (N=6/group) were tested under conventional conditions. The two compartments of the avoidance apparatus were identical in all respects. In Experiment 2, the rats (N=6/group) were tested in the same apparatus, but with differential intrabox cues. The inside of the left compartment was lined with black contact paper, while the inside of the right compartment was lined with white contact paper. Irrespective of the conditions, the septal rats were facilitated in the acquisition of shuttle-avoidance. In both tasks, the septal subjects required fewer trials to reach criterion, and showed better orientation in the shuttle-box compared to controls. The response latencies of the septal subjects also tended to be faster, but neither septal nor control subjects showed differential response latencies related to the direction of the shuttle response. Previous findings have shown that the addition of external cues to purported spatial tasks can reduce the behavioral effects produced by damage to the septohippocampal axis on such tasks. The present results suggest that such a cue-addition procedure does not influence the behavioral effects produced by septal lesions in shuttle-avoidance.
A Model of Animal Selfhood: Expanding Interactionist Possibilities

Interaction between people and companion animals provides the basis for a model of the self that does not depend on spoken language. Drawing on ethnographic research in an animal shelter as well as interviews and autoethnography, this article argues that interaction between people and animals contributes to human selfhood. In order for animals to contribute to selfhood in the ways that they do, they must be subjective others and not just the objects of anthropomorphic projection. Several dimensions of subjectivity appear among dogs and cats, constituting a “core” self consisting of agency, coherence, affectivity, and history. Conceptualizing selfhood in this way offers critical access to animals’ subjective presence and adds to existing interactionist research on relationships between people and animals. The notion that animals, like people, have selves is controversial for sociology. The field has defined its subject matter as that which is uniquely human. Along with culture, rationality, and language, the self is one of the entities for which animals purportedly lack the tools. The word tool is important here, for tool use and, later, tool making long served to distinguish humans from (and portray them as superior to) other animals. When Jane Goodall (1990) observed the chimpanzee David Greybeard not only using a tool but also making one, her observation called for redefining the existing boundary between humans and animals. If some animals have the ability to make and use various physical tools, perhaps they also possess the conceptual tools required for selfhood. In other words, if we humans were wrong about tool use among animals, there are likely other things we have underestimated and overlooked, such as their capacity for selfhood. Perhaps the boundary of selfconsciousness that has long divided humans from animals is also illusory. If so, then how can sociologists, in particular, interactionists, study animal selfhood? What might we gain from and contribute to the task? Scholars from a range of disciplines have repeatedly challenged the once-distinct boundary between human and nonhuman animals by showing that the latter can
Phase-space formulation of quantum mechanics under phase-space transformations: Wigner functions of an oscillator system in crossed magnetic and electric fields.

We give a rigorous proof for the following result that combines those discussed earlier by Kr\"uger and Poffyn [Physica 85A, 84 (1976)] and by Springborg [J. Phys. A 16, 535 (1983)]: The Wigner correspondence of a quantum operator can be obtained by simple substitutions under an arbitrary linear phase-space transformation. This property cannot be generalized to any other transformations or rules of phase-space correspondence. As an application of this result, the Wigner distribution functions of an anisotropic harmonic-oscillator system in crossed magnetic and electric fields are obtained.
Characterizing perfect recall using next-step temporal operators in S5 Epistemic Temporal Logic

We review the notion of perfect recall in the literature on interpreted systems, game theory and epistemic logic. In the context of Epistemic Temporal Logic (ETL), we give a (to our knowledge) novel frame condition for perfect recall. In contrast to existing characterizations, it is local in a sense which allows it to straightforwardly be translated into a defining formula in a language that only has next-step temporal operators. This frame condition also gives rise to a complete axiomatization of perfect recall in S5 ETL.
The flexible DNA double helix. I. Average dimensions and distribution functions.

A scheme has been developed to treat the spatial arrangements and properties of double-helical DNA in terms of the constituent atoms and bonds of the system. Heretofore the behavior of DNA in solution has been interpreted in terms of various artificial theoretical models. In this work the flexibility of the DNA double helix is taken to arise from minor perturbations of the rotation angles along the polynucleotide backbone. The rotational motions of the chain are limited to conformations within the B-DNA family of helices that permit base stacking. The disruptions of hydrogen bonding associated with these angular fluctuations are offered as a plausible description of the well-known breathing of double-stranded DNA. Radii of gyration 〈s2〉0 computed on the basis of this model are found to agree with experimental measurements on B-DNA helices spanning a wide range of molecular weights. Moreover, the three-dimensional spatial distribution functions Wa(ρ) generated by these limited internal rotations are compatible with various macroscopic descriptions (i.e., rigid rod, wormlike coil, ideal Gaussian) previously ascribed to DNA of different chain lengths. It is further evident from the Wa(ρ) that the “rigid” B-DNA backbone modeled here, if long enough, can bend into compact conformations. Thus it does not appear necessary to invoke the occurrence of sharp bends or links to account for the condensed forms of DNA in naturally occurring systems.
Indirect Self-Destructive Behavior Among Elderly Patients in Nursing Homes: A Research Agenda

Although suicide is rare in nursing homes, indirect self-destructive behaviors (ISDBs), such as the refusal to eat or take life-sustaining medications, are commonplace. For some, ISDB represents a cry for help, whereas in others it is a reasoned behavioral expression of legitimate preference for an earlier death. This article reports on the proceedings of a workshop held in May 1994 to discuss ISDB in long-term care settings. After a historical review, issues discussed by workshop participants are presented and a research agenda proposed. Future studies are advocated with regard to correlates for ISDB that are relevant to the patient and characteristic of the nursing home environment.
Zeeman perturbations on shallow acceptor states in germanium

Abstract Based on the effective mass theoretical approach, the magnetic field splittings of the shallow acceptor states in Ge have been studied. In this calculation, we have used the acceptor wave functions previously obtained by Mendelson and James. It is found that the g -factor for the ground state Γ 8 quartet, so obtained, is in close agreement with the one calculated by Suzuki, Okazaki and Hasegawa using full six component envelope functions. The Zeeman splitting for the excited Γ 6 doublet appears to be quite large. The g -factors for the Γ 7 doublet and other excited states have been calculated. The Zeeman splittings of Raman transitions involving the ground state multiplet and a low-lying excited state multiplet of even parity have also been determined.
A New Species of Odontacarus (Acari: Trombiculidae) Infesting Murid Rodents in Papua New Guinea

Odontacarus (Leogonius) unisetosa , n. sp., is described and illustrated from murid rodents taken in Papua New Guinea.
The Pepsi Refresh Project: A Thirst for Change (TN)

In 2010, for the first time in 23 years, PepsiCo did not invest in Super Bowl advertising for its iconic brand. Instead, the company diverted $20 million to the social media-fueled Pepsi Refresh Project: PepsiCo's innovative cause-marketing program in which consumers submitted ideas for grants for health, environmental, social, educational, and cultural causes. Consumers voted for their favorite ideas, and PepsiCo funded the winners in grants ranging from $5,000 to $250,000. The case highlights the benefits and risks of traditional branding and social media branding, including a discussion of how the Pepsi Refresh Project fits with Pepsi's previous brand positioning. The case discussion focuses on how the brand team should evaluate the initiative's return on investment (from sales to social media engagement), whether they should continue the initiative in 2011, and whether Pepsi is the right brand for this kind of initiative.Learning Objective: The case has three primary teaching purposes: 1) exploring the risks and rewards when major brands engage in cause-marketing programs, including backlash from media and consumers; 2) Evaluating the success of cause-marketing programs, which involves balancing short-term sales against longer-term customer loyalty and brand health; 3) Exploring the risks and rewards of "opening up" a brand to consumer involvement via social media; the Pepsi Refresh campaign empowered consumers to propose projects for any charitable cause they wished, meaning that the brand relinquished some control over the causes it supported.
Battery optimization vs energy optimization: which to choose and when?

Batteries are non-ideal energy sources - minimizing the energy consumption of a battery-powered system is not equivalent to maximizing its battery life. We propose an alternative interpretation of a previously proposed battery model, which indicates that the deviation from ideal behavior is due to the buildup of "unavailable charge" during the discharge process. Previously, battery-aware task scheduling algorithms and power management policies have been developed, which try to reduce the unavailable charge at the end of a given workload. However, they do not account for the occurrence of rest periods (user enforced, naturally occurring, or due to finite load horizon), which are present in a variety of workloads. We first obtain an analytical bound on the recovery time of a battery as a function of the extent of recovery. Then, we shown that the effect of the rest periods is to reduce the improvement of battery-charge optimizing techniques over traditional energy-optimizing techniques. Under certain conditions, the policy that only minimizes energy consumption can actually achieve a longer battery lifetime than a battery-aware policy. A formal criterion based on the recovery time is proposed to choose between a candidate battery-aware policy and a candidate energy-aware policy. We also model the battery discharge process as a linear time invariant system and obtain the frequency response of a battery. This is then used to study the effect of task granularity on the improvement achieved by battery-aware task scheduling. It was observed that the response time of typical batteries are of the order of seconds to several minutes. This, along with the charge recovery effect, was seen to cause battery-aware task scheduling methods to become ineffective for both very fine-grained (less than 10 ms) and very coarse-grained (greater than 30 mm) task granularities.
Computational and Experimental Study of Vibrational Motions on Tissue Cutting for Solid Biopsy Needles

This paper reports on a study of the effects of vibrational motions on tissue cutting to reduce the insertion force for commercial solid needles with a bevel cutting tip. The proposed concept mimics a mosquito’s maxilla, which adopts a vibrational motion in order to painlessly penetrate human skin. The purpose of this study is to investigate the vibrational motion and its application to commercial solid needles. The ultimate goal consists in the minimization of the insertion force at puncture. Several insertion tests have been performed at different insertion speeds, vibrational frequencies and vibrational amplitudes. As also predicted by a 3D finite element simulation, reductions of almost 20% in the insertion force can be achieved, and encourages further studies and applications of vibrational motions in biomedical devices.Copyright © 2015 by ASME
Angle measurement with a phase monopulse radar altimeter

It is possible to enhance the conventional satellite radar altimeter in such a way that the range measurement is accompanied by an angle measurement. This is useful if the radar applications of these altimeters are to be expanded to include phase nonlevel surfaces such as continental ice sheets and land. The angle measurement can be made in one or two directions through the inclusion of one or two additional antennas and receiver channels and the integration of complex "cross-channel" waveforms whose phase indicates the angle to the point of first reflection from the scattering surface. This paper develops the measurement concept and establishes the precision of the resulting elevation measurement through an analysis of the dominant sources of error within the instrument. It is shown through analysis and numerical simulation that elevation errors over a flat tilted diffusely scattering surface can be maintained below the 1-cm level. The impact of antenna pointing and surface roughness are considered.