cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Extraction of features from images using video feedback

This paper describes the results of using video feedback to support the calculation of the radon transform and angular correlation. Application of this type of optical processor to the extraction of features from synthetic aperture radar imagery of ships is described. By theoretical analysis and experimental evaluation of the optical architecture outputs (using some digital post processing) it is shown that the internal structure of objects, their primitive dimensions, and even their boundary can be obtained. In particular, the power of angular correlation to extract object length, width, area, aspect ratio, orientation and boundary from suitably thresholded images is shown. Alternative techniques to extract the object boundary based on angular correlation are discussed, including direct optical computation as well as digital deconvolution. Simple optical shapes, such as squares, rectangles, and triangles were used to initially compare the optical architecture outputs with digital baseline calculations. In addition, the test and evaluation of the optical processor using simple synthetic models of ship data is discussed. The results of a study that uses object primitives (derivable from angular correlation) in conjunction with the Radon transform (along the longitudinal axis) to classify ships using a backpropagation neural network also are described. A discussion of these results is presented pertaining to their broader application to optical parts inspection and to feature extraction from imaging infrared surveillance sensors. The practical implementation of such a processor in compact form using lenslet array optics also is discussed.© (1991) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Comparison of Solar Subsurface Flows Assessed by Ring and Time‐Distance Analyses

The solar near-surface shear layer exhibits a rich medley of flows that are now being measured by a variety of local helioseismic techniques. We present comparisons of the horizontal flows obtained with two of these techniques, ring and time-distance analyses, applied to Michelson Doppler Imager (MDI) Dynamics Program data from the years 1998 and 1999. The ring analyses use the frequencies of both f and p modes in inversions to obtain flows within the near-surface shear layer as a function of depth. The f-mode time-distance analyses make velocity inferences just beneath the photosphere. After degrading the spatial resolution of the time-distance analyses to match the coarser resolution of the ring analyses, we find that the flows deduced with the two methods are remarkably similar, with common inflow and outflow sites as well as agreement in flow direction. The flows from ring and time-distance analyses are highly correlated with each other (correlation coefficients ~0.8); direct correspondence of features in the flows is largely realized in both the quiet-Sun and magnetic active regions.
A MUCH‐MARRIED WOMAN: MARRIAGE & DIVORCE IN XINJIANG 1850–1950

A partir de sources europeennes (notamment celles de D. Forsyth et C. P. Skrine), chinoises (documents qing, et du XX e siecle) et turques (chansons, proverbes et poemes), l'A. decrit la perception des femmes turkestanes de Xinjiang, leur statut et les institutions du mariage et du divorce ainsi que leur rapport avec la loi islamique entre 1850 et 1950.
Laparoscopic colon resection for polyps: a good novice case?

Laparoscopic colon resection of the endoscopically unresectable polyp has been considered an ideal case for the surgeon with moderate laparoscopic colectomy experience because tissues are not inflamed and the lymphadenectomy may not need to be as extensive compared with that required for cancer. To assess the appropriateness of this approach, we evaluated the incidence of invasive cancer in a series of laparoscopic colon resections for polyps. A retrospective review was performed of 55 consecutive patients undergoing laparoscopic colon resection for endoscopically unresectable polyps during a 35-month period. Colonoscopy data, polyp characteristics, and final colon pathology were reviewed. On final pathologic examination, 18.2 percent of patients had invasive adenocarcinoma. Patient age, gender, indication for colonoscopy, polyp size, polyp location, polyp characteristics, and colonoscopic biopsy pathology were not predictive of adenocarcinoma on final pathology. A significant number of endoscopically unresectable polyps harbor adenocarcinoma, thereby requiring a formal lymphadenectomy at resection. Caution should be exercised when considering the laparoscopic resection of an endoscopically unresectable polyp as a “learning” case.
Expansions: a study in the unity of science.

This article attempts to establish some of the general laws relating to spatial aspects of general systems theory, i.e., how forces, impulses, and ideas (matter, energy, and information) spread, diversify, and compete with one another, and how the earlier history of observed structures can be traced by backtracking. Principles that have long been accepted for nonliving and low-level living systems are recognized in the activities of individual human beings, groups, and supranational systems.
Electromagnetic ion cyclotron mode (ELF) waves generated by auroral electron precipitation

Narrow-banded ELF waves with frequencies between the local hydrogen and the singly-charged helium gyrofrequencies have been seen in the S3-3 satellite electric field wave data at altitudes between 800 and 8000 km. The waves are generated in or just below the auroral acceleration region by the accelerated electron beam and propagate in the Alfven-ion cyclotron branch of the cold electromagnetic dispersion relation as modified by the presence of a two ion H(+)-He(+) plasma.
Time course and frequency dependence of synaptic vesicle depletion and recovery in electrically stimulated sympathetic ganglia

The mammalian superior cervical sympathetic ganglion has been extensively used to study the kinetics of ACh metabolism and release. The present investigation examined the time course of changes in the number of synaptic vesicles and abundance of plasma membrane at preganglionic nerve terminals using stimulation protocols similar to those used in previous biochemical and electrophysiological studies. Continuous stimulation of the preganglionic trunk to the cat superior cervical ganglionin vivo produced an initially rapid fall in the number of clear synaptic vesicles followed by a subsequent plateau. Reciprocal changes in plasma membrane occurred with a similar time course. The plateau phase is interpreted as a steady-state where vesicle exocytosis is balanced by the rate of vesicle reformation from plasma membrane. During quiescent recovery, restoration of normal resting ultrastructure is initially rapid but slows with time as vesicle number and plasma membrane abundance approach pre-stimulation values, indicating that the rate of vesicle reformation at the end of stimulation is high and proportional to the number of vesicles incorporated into the plasma membrane. These results are interpreted as consistent with the ‘vesicle hypothesis’ of neurotransmitter release.
Origin and direction of φX174 double- and single-stranded DNA synthesis

Abstract The origin and direction of both φX174 double-stranded and single-stranded DNA synthesis has been determined by pulsing replicating viral DNA molecules with [3H]thymidine for periods of less than one round of DNA synthesis and examining distribution of activity in the Haemophilus influenzae restriction endonuclease (Hin) DNA fragments of these molecules. In early RFI and RFII DNA intermediates in double-stranded DNA replication, gradients of label were observed which started in the R3 fragment (cistron A) and increased towards the R4 fragment (cistron H). The origin of synthesis is near the R4/R3 junction of the R3 fragment. Thus, φX174 double-stranded DNA synthesis proceeds clockwise around the genetic map (5′ → 3′), in one direction only and starting in the region of cistron A, a conclusion consistent with the genetic experiments of Baas & Jansz (1972). Similar experiments with the gapped late RFII DNA molecules that have just completed a round of single-stranded viral DNA synthesis demonstrated that φX174 single-stranded DNA synthesis also has a single origin of replication in the region of cistron A, and that the synthesis moves in the 5′ → 3′ direction, around the genetic map. The gap in both the early and the late RFII DNA molecules also appears to be in the R3 fragment containing cistron A.
The Glycans of Stem Cells

Glycans cover all cellular surfaces and, not surprisingly, are involved in many facets of stem cell biology and technology. For instance, coaxing stem cells to either proliferate or differentiate into the specific cell types needed for transplantation requires intricate glycan-dependent modulation of signalling molecules such as FGF-2, Wnt, and Notch. Moreover, owing to their prominent cell-surface localization and lineage-specific signatures, glycan epitopes such as the stage-specific embryonic antigens (Lewis X/SSEA-1, SSEA3-4) and tumor-rejection antigens (TRA1-60, 1-81) are ideally suited for identifying and isolating specific cell types from heterogeneous populations. Finally, the non-human sialic acid Neu5Gc has been detected on the surface of human embryonic stem cells because of metabolic incorporation from animal products used for their culture. Transplantation of Neu5Gc-contaminated cells poses immunological risks due to the presence, in humans, of circulating antibodies recognizing this glycan epitope.
Fullerene-impregnated ionic liquid stationary phases for gas chromatography

A new method has been developed to facilitate the use of fullerenes as stationary phases (SPs) in gas chromatography (GC). In this method, ionic liquids (ILs) are used as solvents to coat fullerenes (C60, amino-C60 and hydroxy-C60) onto GC columns. However, the ILs serve not just as coating solvents but also act synergistically with fullerenes to provide unique properties as stationary phases, namely dual modal characteristics. They act as non-polar SPs when separating non-polar analytes (aromatic hydrocarbon mixtures and alkane mixtures), and as polar SPs for polar analytes (e.g., alcohol mixtures). The polarity of the stationary phase can be adjusted by changing either the type of the IL and/or by adding either C60 (or its amino or hydroxy derivatives) to the IL. It was found that C60 and its derivatives produce not only a change in the polarity of the SP but also substantial enhancement in separation efficiencies for both non-polar and polar analytes. More importantly, when added to the IL SP, C60 improves separation efficiencies not just for non-polar analytes (aromatic hydrocarbon mixtures and alkane mixtures) but also for polar analytes (mixtures of ortho-, meta- and para-xylene and alcohol mixtures) as well. Moreover, C60SP provides higher efficiencies than amino-C60 and hydroxy-C60 for separation of polar analytes. This is rather surprising considering that not only are amino-C60 and hydroxy-C60 more polar than C60, but that the IL used to coat the amino- and hydroxy-C60 (i.e., N-ethylpyridinium trifluoroacetate, [EtPy+ CF3COO−]) is more polar than the IL used to coat the C60 (i.e., octylmethylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl)amide], [OMIm+ (CF3SO2)2N−]). Moreover, compared to its amino and hydroxy derivatives, the concentration of C60 in the column was 10 times lower.
Ventricular assist device support in patients with mechanical heart valves

Abstract Background . Due to potential thromboembolic complications, mechanical valves within the native heart are often considered contraindications to ventricular assist device (VAD) support. Methods . A retrospective review of VAD cases between June 1982 and March 1998 showed 8 patients with mechanical valves who were supported with Thoratec (Pleasanton, CA) VADs. Results . There were 6 males and 2 females ranging in age from 20 to 69 years (mean 49.8 ± 5.6). Four patients were supported when they could not be weaned from cardiopulmonary bypass after reparative procedures and were thought to have reversible injuries. Four patients were supported as a bridge-to-cardiac transplantation. Two patients had mechanical mitral valves, 2 had aortic valve replacements, 1 had an aortic homograft and mechanical mitral valve, 2 had mechanical aortic and mitral prosthesis, and 1 patient had aortic, mitral, and triscupid valves. The types of valvular prostheses were St. Jude (5 patients) and Bjork-Shiley (3 patients). Duration of support ranged from 3.0 to 150 days (mean 34 days). Four patients were supported with biventricular assist devices and 4 had left VADs. Dextran and intravenous heparin anticoagulation were used in the shorter duration patients, with warfarin being used in the bridge patients. One patient received warfarin and aspirin. At the time of autopsy or device removal, only 1 of the 12 mechanical intracardiac valves showed any evidence of thrombosis, including the aortic valves in 2 patients supported for 2 and 5 months. There were no clinical thromboembolic events. Four patients (50%) were discharged (1 weaned, 3 transplanted). Conclusions . The 50% (4 of 8) survival rate compares favorably with the 44% (41 of 92) overall survival rate for our Thoratec patients (bridge plus recovery) who did not have mechanical prosthetic valves. These data suggest that patients with mechanical intracardiac valves can be supported for short durations with some additional risk, which is yet to be determined.
On Departing Empire: A Mission of the Church in the Caribbean

AbstractThe church partnered colonial powers in the establishment and maintenance of empire in the Caribbean: this article reminds readers of these realities before exploring some implications for the mission of the church today. The article argues that the church has a role to play in giving spiritual and moral leadership in the complex process of departing empire; it also offers observations on the challenge to the church to stand firm in its emancipatory commitment to move beyond empire, not least by developing new modes of self-expression and counter-discourse. In the article, particular reference is made to responsibilities facing the Caribbean Council of Churches.
Mass Integration and Scheduling Strategies for Resource Recovery in Planetary Habitation

The purpose of this paper is to develop mass integration strategies for nonconventional applications to support planetary habitation systems. The system is aimed at recovering agricultural nutrients from crop-growth wastes. These wastes are processed through a combination of biological, physical and chemical systems to render harvested biomass into usable or recoverable materials. Aerobic composting was carried out followed by leaching and filtration. Tailored experiments were carried out to track the dynamic release of nutrients via aerobic composting. In order to maximize the use of recovered nutrients, a mass integration framework was developed for the optimum scheduling the allocation of composting products. The experimental results were used in a mathematical formulation that optimizes nutrient recovery, the operation of the system, and the scheduling of waste input and nutrient output. A case study on the composting of sweet potato biomass was solved to illustrate the usefulness of the experimental results and the integration framework.
Five Steps to Success: Implementing Geospatial Technologies in the Science Classroom

This research article presents the interpretations of three science teacher leaders and twelve participants involved in a professional development program called the 5-Step GT Program. Interviews and a questionnaire were used to construct case studies of implementation. The findings showed that the program was unique in that it was cumulative and flexible, with each step increasing in complexity, taking the participant from learning a base of computer skills and science content, to conducting community-based projects but at the teacher‟s own pace. A built-in leadership component provided a means of dissemination into the local school districts. Continuous support, geospatial technology community support, amid collaboration with scientists; and direct pedagogical instruction proved to be essential components of the program. Approaching teacher professional development from a personal teacher development perspective supported teacher confidence in using geospatial technologies in the teachers‟ classrooms.
Sodium channels in cultured neuroblastoma cells grown in high glucose or l-Fucose

Patch clamp techniques were used to record whole cell and single channel Na+ currents from NB41A3 neuroblastoma cells grown in culture. Cells were grown for two weeks in control medium or medium supplemented with 30 mmd-glucose of 30 mm l-fucose.
Is genetic code redundancy related to retention of structural information in both DNA strands

We have noted that the sense-antisense relationships inherent in the genetic code divide the amino acids into three separate groups. The nature of the amino acids in each group may allow the polypeptides coded by the antisense strand to retain the secondary structure patterns of the translated strand. Also, this relationship requires all but eight of the codons in the eukaryotic code and all but four in the mitochondrial code. Thus, genetic code redundancy could be related to evolutionary pressure toward retention of protein structural information in both strands of DNA.
The Brunn-Minkowski inequality

In 1978, Osserman [124] wrote an extensive survey on the isoperimetric inequality. The Brunn-Minkowski inequality can be proved in a page, yet quickly yields the classical isoperimetric inequality for important classes of subsets of Rn, and deserves to be better known. This guide explains the relationship between the Brunn-Minkowski inequality and other inequalities in geometry and analysis, and some applications.
Simulation Data Mining for Functional Test Pattern Justification

In simulation-based functional verification, composing and debugging test benches can be tedious and time-consuming. A simulation-based data-mining approach (Wen et al., 2005) was proposed as an alternative for functional test pattern generation. However, the core of the approach is in solving Boolean learning, which is the problem of learning Boolean functions from bit-level simulation data. In this paper, an efficient data mining engine based on novel decision-diagram (DD) based learning approaches is presented. The authors compare the DD-based learning approaches to other known methods such as nearest neighbor and support vector machine. The authors show that the new Boolean data miner is efficient for practical use and the learned results can provide compact and accurately approximate representations of Boolean functions. Finally, the authors show that the proposed methodology incorporated with the current Boolean data miner can achieve high fault coverage (95.36%) on the OpenRISC 1200 microprocessor, demonstrating the effectiveness of our approach
Enumeration and Characterization of Memory Cells in the TH Compartment

There is a great deal of interest in understanding how helper T cells differentiate in vivo and exert their regulatory role on a developing, immune response. Essential to development of protective immunity is the development of memory T cells. To study memory T cells in vivo we first need the means to identify and characterize these cells as they develop in their complex microenvironments. We have developed a method which allows us to directly purify both primary and memory helper T cells from the draining lymph nodes of mice as they respond to pigeon cytochrome c in vivo. Junctional sequences from these populations and from individual T cells show a strong selection for CDR3 length and residues characteristic of antigen binding. Overall these studies support a model of progressive clonal maturation with the memory T cell repertoire being more homogeneous than that of the primary response. There is some suggestion that affinity maturation may take place after repeated immunization, but on a more modest scale than that seen for antibodies. Finally we present the use of two new technologies that promise to greatly expand the analysis of immune responses in vivo. The use of flow cytometry with simultaneous detection of five and six fluorescence parameters helps to reliably resolve rare subsets of antigen-specific cells in order to understand the progression of their differentiation in vivo. Lastly, we have developed peptide/MHC tetramers as a new class of staining reagent that has wide applicability in the study of T cell responses in vivo.
Über fluorhaltige Komplexe. IX. Kondensierte Fluorooxokomplexe des Zinns und Germaniums

Es werden die Kondensationsreaktionen der Fluorohydroxostannate und von Pentafluoromonohydroxogermanat beschrieben. Reaktionsprodukte sind K4[Sn2F10O], K2SnF4O, K2SnF2O2, K4[Ge2F10O] oder auch entsprechende Natriumsalze. Die nicht mit eckigen Klammern formulierten Salze sind als hochpolymere Gebilde aufzufassen. Ammoniumfluorohydroxostannate zeigen bei niederen Temperaturen ahnliches Verhalten wie die Alkalisalze. Bei hoheren Temperaturen entstehen gefarbte stickstoffhaltige Zinnoxidfluoride. The polymeric fluorocompounds Me4[Sn2F10O], Me2SnF4O, Me2SnF2O2, and Me4[Ge2F10O] with Me = Na, K have been prepared by thermal condensation reactions of fluorohydroxostannates and pentafluoromonohydroxogermanates, respectively. NH4 fluorohydroxostannates react at lower temperatures similarly like the corresponding alkali salts, at higher temperatures coloured N-containing tin oxidefluorides are formed.
Closing the Racial Achievement Gap:The Role of Reforming Instructional Practices

No Child Left Behind calls for schools to close the achievement gap between races in math and reading. One possible way for schools to do so is to encourage their teachers to engage in practices that disproportionately benefit their minority students. The current study applies the technique of Hierarchical Linear Modeling to a nationally representative sample of 13,000 fourth graders who took the 2000 National Assessment of Educational Progress in mathematics to identify instructional practices that reduce the achievement gap. It finds that, even when taking student background into account, various instructional practices can make a substantial difference.
Renal cortical index and calyx index for assessment of development and regression of stasis in congenital hydronephrosis.

There is still no objective method for defining the extent of hydronephrosis, and surgery is decided upon usually on the basis of subjective criteria. In this paper the author intends to introduce objective figures for the evaluation of the extent of hydronephrosis. Simultaneously, an attempt is made to define the approximate limits of reversibility of stasis in hydronephrosis after operation. In order to prove this a Renal Cortical Index and Calyx Index for the estimation of the extent of hydronephrosis are introduced.
Normal Modes and Continuous Spectraa

The authors consider stability problems arising in fluids, plasmas and stellar systems that contain singularities resulting from wave-mean flow or wave-particle resonances. Such resonances lead to singularities in the differential equations determining the normal modes at the so-called critical points or layers. The locations of the singularities are determined by the eigenvalue of the problem, and as a result, the spectrum of eigenvalues forms a continuum. They outline a method to construct the singular eigenfunctions comprising the continuum for a variety of problems.
N-chain Hubbard model in weak coupling

We present a systematic weak-coupling renormalization group ~RG! technique for studying a collection of N coupled one-dimensional interacting electron systems, focusing on the example of N-leg Hubbard ladders. For N52,3, we recover previous results, and find that also more generally broad regions of the phase space of these models are unstable to pairing, usually with approximate d-wave symmetry. We show how these instabilities can be understood in terms of a fairly conventional ‘‘gap’’ function D at the discretized Fermi surface, and describe how this function is calculated. The dimensional crossovers as N!‘ and as many such ladders are weakly coupled together are also discussed. @S0163-1829~97!00836-9#
Unemployment and substance outcomes in the United States 2002-2010.

Abstract Background The economic shock of 2008–2009 provided an opportunity to study the robustness of observed statistical associations between unemployment and problematic substance use. Methods Data from 405,000 non-institutionalized adult participants in the 2002 to 2010 U.S. National Survey on Drug Use and Health were used to compare substance outcomes among unemployed and employed persons. Association of unemployment with substance outcomes was examined for the years 2002–2004, 2005–2007, 2008, and 2009–2010, corresponding to periods prior to and after the economic downturn of 2008. Multivariate logistic regression models adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, education, urban/rural residence, current DSM-IV Major Depression, and local county unemployment rates. Results Higher rates of past month tobacco and illicit drug use, heavy alcohol use, and past-year drug or alcohol abuse/dependence were found among the unemployed. Markedly increased unemployment in 2009–2010 did not moderate the association between substance outcomes and employment. This association was not confounded by sex, age group, or race/ethnicity for tobacco and illicit drugs, although it varied for alcohol outcomes among 18–25 year-olds. Results based on retrospective data regarding marijuana use in the period prior to unemployment suggest its use was associated with future job loss. Conclusions Employment status was strongly and robustly associated with problematic use of substances. Prevention and treatment interventions are warranted for a group whose employment and resulting insurance status may impair access to much needed health care.
Willing and acting in Husserl's lectures on ethics and value theory

La description husserlienne de la volonte. La volonte comme phenomene transcendant, et comme phenomene mental
Changepoint detection in SPI transition probabilities

The Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) has become a popular measure of drought across the globe. Several techniques have been employed in attempts to estimate the time at which any changes in drought patterns occur using categories defined by SPI values. Log-linear models, odds ratios and multiple confidence intervals have all been used while trying to estimate such changepoints and have met with varying degrees of success, in part due to small cell counts and the large number of inferences that must be carried out. The purpose of this paper is to provide an alternative method for the detection of a changepoint in SPI data, specifically in the matrix of transitions from one drought class to another. A resampling algorithm is provided that both detects a potential changepoint and determines its significance under the assumption that at most one changepoint is present. Simulation results are provided to validate the method as well as the suggested metrics for detection. Data from Kenya is used to provide four examples where the technique is implemented on observed rainfall data.
The Fate of Hypochlorous Acid During Shrimp Processing: A Model System

After immersion of shrimp in a 100mg/L solution of HO36Cl, the distribution and chemical forms of chlorine were determined. There was a 2–5% loss of Cl2 into the atmosphere, but no significan photolysis of HOCl was measured during the 30 min of treatment. More than 80% of the HOCl reacted during the incubation period, forming Cl- or incorporating into organic molecules. Only 1–3%36Cl- was incorporated into the shrimp. Organic molecules in the immersion solution also showed 36Cl incorporation; the 10,000 ×g precipitable fraction contained 2–5%36Cl and the soluble organic fraction 1–2%36Cl.
TU‐C‐141‐03: Block‐Matching Registration for Localization of Locally‐Advanced Lung Tumors During Image‐Guided Radiotherapy

Purpose: To implement and evaluate a block matching registration (BMR) algorithm for automatic registration of locally advanced lung tumors during image‐guided radiotherapy. Methods: Small (1 cm3), non‐overlapping image sub‐volumes (“blocks”) were identified on the tumor surface of the planning image (13 to 282 blocks per image) and were independently and automatically registered to the on‐treatment image using a rigid transform. A multi‐resolution strategy was implemented for improved speed and accuracy. At each resolution, multiple potential displacement vectors were initially permitted for each block. Then, after registering all blocks, the final set of transforms (one per block) was iteratively determined to maximize the local displacement consistency across immediately neighboring blocks. Finally, the optimal rigid transform for the on‐treatment image was extracted, providing the patient setup correction. This algorithm was evaluated for 18 locally‐advanced lung cancer patients, each with 4 to 7 weekly on‐treatment CT scans having physician‐delineated gross tumor volumes (GTV). Volume overlap was computed as the intersection of planning and registered GTVs divided by the registered GTV. Border displacement errors (BDE) were also calculated in the left‐right (LR), anterior‐posterior (AP) and superior‐inferior (SI) directions, from which the required margins were computed. Results: Implementation of multi‐resolution registration reduced initial block matching errors by 39%. By also permitting multiple potential displacements per block, initial errors were reduced by 65%. After BMR, LR, AP, and SI systematic BDE were 3.2, 2.4, and 4.4 mm respectively, with random BDE of 2.4, 2.1, and 2.7 mm. Required margins included both localization and delineation uncertainties and ranged from 5.0 to 11.7 mm, an average of 40% less than required for bony alignment. Conclusion: BMR is a promising approach for automatic lung tumor localization. Further evaluation is warranted to assess the accuracy and robustness of BMR against other potential localization strategies. This work was supported by NIH grant R01CA116249.
Dynamic Range Measurement Definition Thursday, August 24, 1978, 1800 to 2030 Hours

We have agreed upon dynamic range measurement definition for use by commercial manufacturers of electro-optic streak cameras. Dynamic range is to be defined as the ratio of the peak amplitudes of an upper and lower usable signal. The limits of usable signal are to be the points at which the pulse width at half maximum is broadened or changed by 20% as referenced to the width of a pulse near the middle of the dynamic range.© (1979) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Playing Smart: The Mating Game and Mating Intelligence

Current work investigated the extent to which mating intelligence was related to one’s own mate value as well as the value of one’s mate. We hypothesized that (1) mating intelligence is positively correlated with measures of self-perceived mate value, (2) greater mating intelligence is associated with greater partner mate value, (3) greater mating intelligence is associated with less mate settling, and according to Parental Investment Theory, females are predicted to have significantly higher mean mate value than males. Along with the adoption of the Mate Value Inventory and Mating Intelligence Scale, a method was developed to assess a more objective rating of self and partner’s physical attractiveness. A large sample (N > 500) was obtained for this study via internet survey. As predicted, mating intelligence appeared to be a valid predictor of one’s own value in the mating market, as well as the quality of mates that one can attract. High mating intelligence also corresponded to lower mate value discrepancy within a mateship. That is, high MI tended to go with a relatively small gap between the mate value of oneself and the mate value of ones partner, or less mate settling. Moreover, the positive relationship between objective and subjective ratings of self and partner’s physical attractiveness suggests that participants were able to judge themselves and their partners through the eyes of another. In all, evidence from the current work suggests that mating intelligence has important implications for individuals’ mating behavior within the mating market.
Abdominal complications of chemotherapy: findings at computed tomography

Modern chemotherapy may result in an array of complications that can produce computed tomography (CT) findings in the hepatobiliary, gastrointestinal and urinary systems. This article describes the CT findings that may be seen in abdominal complications of contemporary chemotherapy. Knowledge of the varying CT appearances that can be encountered may facilitate both diagnosis and management in such cases.
Effects of chronic alcohol ingestion on the mesostriatal dopamine system in the rat

The effects of chronic alcohol use on the mesostriatal dopamine (DA) system remain relatively unknown. The aim of the present study was to assess multiple measures of the status of the mesostriatal DA system in rats chronically fed an alcohol diet for approximately 1 year. Tissue levels of DA and its metabolite, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, were significantly decreased in both the dorsal striatum (34 and 33%, respectively) and ventral striatum (33 and 36%, respectively) in alcohol-fed rats compared to pair-fed matched controls. Western blotting revealed a mean 20% decrease in tyrosine hydroxylase protein levels in the dorsal and ventral striatum of alcohol-fed animals while dopamine transporter protein levels from the same animals were significantly increased compared to controls (mean 60% increase for the dorsal and ventral striatum). The present results demonstrate significant alterations in the mesostriatal DA system after 1 year of chronic alcohol use. It is possible that the observed changes in DA synthesis and re-uptake measures result in altered intracellular and extracellular DA levels, perhaps contributing to the addictive properties of alcohol.
The evolution of N-glycan-dependent endoplasmic reticulum quality control factors for glycoprotein folding and degradation

Asn-linked glycans (N-glycans) play important roles in the quality control (QC) of glycoprotein folding in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) lumen and in ER-associated degradation (ERAD) of proteins by cytosolic proteasomes. A UDP-Glc:glycoprotein glucosyltransferase glucosylates N-glycans of misfolded proteins, which are then bound and refolded by calreticulin and/or calnexin in association with a protein disulfide isomerase. Alternatively, an α-1,2-mannosidase (Mns1) and mannosidase-like proteins (ER degradation-enhancing α-mannosidase-like proteins 1, 2, and 3) are part of a process that results in the dislocation of misfolded glycoproteins into the cytosol, where proteins are degraded in the proteasome. Recently we found that numerous protists and fungi contain 0–11 sugars in their N-glycan precursors versus 14 sugars in those of animals, plants, fungi, and Dictyostelium. Our goal here was to determine what effect N-glycan precursor diversity has on N-glycan-dependent QC systems of glycoprotein folding and ERAD. N-glycan-dependent QC of folding (UDP-Glc:glycoprotein glucosyltransferase, calreticulin, and/or calnexin) was present and active in some but not all protists containing at least five mannose residues in their N-glycans and was absent in protists lacking Man. In contrast, N-glycan-dependent ERAD appeared to be absent from the majority of protists. However, Trypanosoma and Trichomonas genomes predicted ER degradation-enhancing α-mannosidase-like protein and Mns1 orthologs, respectively, each of which had α-mannosidase activity in vitro. Phylogenetic analyses suggested that the diversity of N-glycan-dependent QC of glycoprotein folding (and possibly that of ERAD) was best explained by secondary loss. We conclude that N-glycan precursor length has profound effects on N-glycan-dependent QC of glycoprotein folding and ERAD.
AgGaSe2 : A highly photoconductive material

Abstract High resistivity single crystals of AgGaSe2 were grown by the horizontal Bridgman technique. The near band edge photoconductivity of the grown crystal at room temperature was found to be up to 2×104 times higher than the dark conductivity, under the illumination of 10−3 W/cm2. The photoconductivity spectrum consists primarily of three peaks, which are attributed to the transitions from Γ 7 (A), Γ 6 (B) and Γ 7 (C) states of valence band to the conduction band Γ 6 . The crystal field splitting and the spin–orbit splitting were determined from these peak energy positions of the photoconductivity spectrum.
The differential diagnosis of neonatal hepatitis and biliary atresia

Abstract Diagnostic work-up of the jaundiced infant for to the early diagnosis of biliary atresia should include (1) the quantitative determination of LP-X, an abnormal, low-density, lipoprotein found only in severe cholestasis; (2) the use of cholestyramine, a nonabsorbable resinous copolymer which binds bile acids in the G.I. tract, thereby, promoting their excretion; and (3) a modified 131 I-rose bengal excretion test. This protocol has been useful in differentiating between jaundiced neonates with neonatal hepatitis and biliary atresia.
Towards an ethical framework for animal‐based attractions

Purpose – The aim of this paper is to discuss the issues of animal rights in the hospitality and tourism (H&T) industry, and to suggest ethical guidelines for the operation of animal‐based attractions.Design/methodology/approach – The issue is presented through an extensive literature review, in addition to current examples and demonstrations from the industry.Findings – For years, the H&T industry has been heavily criticized for its inconsiderate and even cruel use of animals for entertainment purposes. However, there are clear indications, presented in this paper, of a growing tendency to adopt approaches that emphasize animal welfare and even animal rights.Research limitations/implications – The growing awareness of animal rights, the changing public opinion and the influence of animal rights' movements is forcing animal attractions to re‐evaluate their attitudes toward the use of animals. Generally, animal attractions should adopt an approach that combines entertainment, education and welfare concerns...
The Impact of Item Format and Examinee Characteristics on Response Times

Current research on examination response time has focused on tests comprised of traditional multiple-choice items. Consequently, the impact of other innovative or complex item formats on examinee response time is not understood. The present study used multilevel growth modeling to investigate examinee characteristics associated with response time differences on a medical certification exam comprised of two item formats. A linear model described examinee pacing on the traditional multiple-choice section, while a quadratic or curvilinear model described pacing on a diagnostic study section comprised of complex graphic-intensive multiple-response items. Examinees’ gender, ability, and age explained variability in response times for each exam section; notably, older examinees’ initial pacing was slower on the multiple-choice section but faster on the complex graphic-intensive multiple-response section. This study has implications for test developers throughout the world who intend to incorporate complex item ...
Mathematical modeling of bacteria–virus interactions in Lake Michigan incorporating phosphorus content

Abstract Viruses are ubiquitous in aquatic ecosystems and play a critical role in nutrient cycling because viral lysis of cells releases phosphorus, an essential and often limiting nutrient. Previous models have examined dynamics of bacterial and viral communities, but with limited analysis and without explicit consideration of nutrients. A recent model ( Fuhrman et al., 2011 ; Math. Comp. Model. 53, 716-730) incorporated internal nutrient content of bacteria and viruses. In the present study, we modified and tested the model with data from natural planktonic communities from Lake Michigan. Replicate 20 L water samples (135 μm screened), were either untreated or enriched with 8 μM phosphate, and bacterial and viral abundance, chl a fluorescence, and phosphorus (total and dissolved inorganic) were monitored for two weeks. Fuhrman et al.'s model (modified to include phytoplankton) was applied to the data, fitting burst size, lytic latent period and virus decay rate. For enriched samples, model fits were good and parameters were consistent with measurements in other freshwater ecosystems. However, for unenriched samples, where nutrient concentrations approached detection limits, model fits were relatively poorer. The model predicted similar viral decay rates but higher burst sizes and longer latent period in phosphorus-limited versus enriched conditions, underlining the potential importance of nutrients in host–virus interactions. The model is likely to be most useful in meso- to eutrophic systems; requirements for future model development and parameter estimation for application to oligotrophic lakes are discussed.
Adaptive harvest management of North American waterfowl populations: a brief history and future prospects

Since 1995, the US Fish and Wildlife Service has used an adaptive approach to the management of sport harvest of mid-continent Mallard ducks (Anas platyrhynchos) in North America. This approach differs from many current approaches to conservation and management in requiring close collaboration between managers and scientists. Key elements of this process are objectives, alternative management actions, models permitting prediction of system responses, and a monitoring program. The iterative process produces optimal management decisions and leads to reduction in uncertainty about response of populations to management. This general approach to management has a number of desirable features and is recommended for use in many other programs of management and conservation.
Forest decline in the boreal montane ecosystems of the southern Appalachian Mountains

Research was initiated in 1984 in an attempt to quantify and test possible hypotheses for the systematic decline and mortality of red spruce (Picea rubens Sarg.) observed in the southern Appalachian Mountains. Field surveys have documented increases in decline symptoms. By 1986, 7% of all tagged red spruce trees in permanent plots were dead. This number, partially due to the effects of severe weather, increased to 41% in 1987.
Biochemical development of preimplantation mouse embryos: in vivo activities of fructose 1,6-diphosphate aldolase, glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase, malate dehydrogenase, and lactate dehydrogenase.

The activities of four enzymes were determined during the first four days of mouse embryogenesis. Two enzymes, fructose 1,6-diphosphate aldolase and malate dehydrogenase, increase about 30% in activity, and this increase is attributed to slow but continued enzyme synthesis. The other two enzymes, glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (X-linked) and lactate dehydrogenase, remain constant for the first two days and then decline exponentially with half-times of 19 and 17 hr, respectively. These declines in activity cannot be explained by the appearance of soluble inactivators or by the disappearance of soluble activators. Likewise, although temporally related to the passage of the embryos from the oviducts into the uterine horns, the changes in enzyme activity do not result from this change in embryonic environment, and specific degradative processes beginning on day 2 of embryonic development are postulated.
Hypertension Induced by Chronic Renal Adrenergic Stimulation Is Angiotensin Dependent

We designed these studies to assess the role of the renin-angiotensin system in mediating the hypertensive and renal functional effects of chronic renal adrenergic stimulation. Norepinephrine was infused at 0.1 microgram/kg per minute for 7 days directly into the renal artery of uninephrectomized dogs under control conditions (n = 5) or after plasma angiotensin II (Ang II) concentration was fixed at control levels (n = 5) by chronic intravenous infusion of captopril (14 micrograms/kg per minute) and Ang II (0.58 +/- 0.04 ng/kg per minute). During the first 60 minutes of norepinephrine infusion in control dogs, mean arterial pressure increased 9 +/- 4 mm Hg in association with a twofold to threefold rise in plasma renin activity. Additionally, glomerular filtration rate, renal plasma flow, sodium excretion, and fractional sodium excretion decreased to 70 +/- 5%, 64 +/- 5%, 31 +/- 4%, and 38 +/- 6% of control, respectively, while filtration fraction increased 15 +/- 2%. In contrast to the pronounced short-term effects of norepinephrine on renal function, during chronic norepinephrine infusion, all indexes of renal function returned to control levels. However, elevations in both plasma renin activity and mean arterial pressure were sustained and on day 7 were 2.3 +/- 0.6 ng angiotensin I/mL per hour (control, 0.5 +/- 0.1) and 110 +/- 7 mm Hg (control, 90 +/- 3). In dogs with fixed plasma levels of Ang II, acute and chronic changes in renal function induced by norepinephrine were similar to those in control dogs except that acute reductions in glomerular filtration rate tended to be more severe, and changes in filtration fraction and fractional sodium excretion were either attenuated or abolished. Moreover, in the absence of a rise in plasma Ang II concentration, mean arterial pressure did not change either acutely or chronically during norepinephrine infusion. These findings suggest a critical role for Ang II in mediating the hypertension associated with elevated levels of renal adrenergic stimulation that have little or no long-term effect on renal blood flow.
Adaptation of the World Health Organization's Selected Practice Recommendations for Contraceptive Use for the United States.

Abstract Background The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently adapted global guidance on contraceptive use from the World Health Organization (WHO) to create the US Selected Practice Recommendations for Contraceptive Use (US SPR). The WHO guidance includes evidence-based recommendations on common, yet sometimes complex, contraceptive management questions. Study Design We determined the need and scope for the adaptation, conducted 30 systematic reviews of the scientific evidence and convened a meeting of health care professionals to discuss translation of the evidence into recommendations. Results The US SPR provides recommendations on contraceptive management issues such as how to initiate contraceptive methods, what regular follow-up is needed, and how to address problems, including missed pills and side effects such as unscheduled bleeding. Conclusion The US SPR is intended to serve as a source of clinical guidance for providers in assisting women and men to initiate and successfully use contraception to prevent unintended pregnancy.
Testing and modeling of yarn pull-out in plain woven Kevlar fabrics

Yarn pull-out behavior of five styles of plain woven Kevlar fabrics, K310, K706, K720, K745 and K779 from Hexcel, was studied. These fabrics were different in fabric count, yarn size, fiber type, thickness and weight. Single yarn pull-out tests showed that the pull-out forces of the five styles of fabrics differ substantially. The yarn pull-out force was found to have positive correlation to the impact performance: fabrics with higher pull-out force performed better in impact tests. A 2D finite element model was proposed to simulate the single yarn pull-out procedure and predict the maximum pull-out force. Several factors were considered in this model: fabric count, yarn size, yarn waviness, fiber modulus, fiber diameter, cross-yarn friction, parallel-fiber friction. The predicted peak pull-out forces showed good agreement with the experimental results. Finally a simple formula was proposed to estimate the yarn pull-out force as a function of fabric count, fiber diameter, fiber modulus, yarn waviness and friction.