cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Interseismic horizontal deformation in northern Honshu and its relationship with the subduction of the Pacific Plate in the Japan Trench

We investigate the origin of the geodetically observed interseismic horizontal deformation in northern Honshu by comparing shear strain rates, principal strain rates, and velocity fields determined from geodetic data with those calculated from the elastic dislocation models involving interplate motion at the Japan trench. The agreement between the observed and predicted directions of the principal strain axes indicates that the geodetic strain field in northern Honshu is primarily elastic strain transmitted from the Japan trench. In order to match the strain rate tensors and velocity magnitudes obtained from the geodetic data, the dislocation model requires that 35% to 60% of the NUVEL1-A Pacific-North American plate motion is locked at the plate interface along the Japan trench. The down-dip depth limit of the locked zone is inferred to be 55 km, which is consistent with the seismic data in the Japan trench.
Differentiation in habitat response among populations of New World seagrass

Abstract Seagrass populations in diverse ecosystems show the selective influence of the local habitat conditions. The patterns of differentiation in the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean seagrasses, Thalassia testudinum Banks ex Konig, Syringodium filiforme Kutz., and Halodule wrightii Aschers., and in the circumboreal seagrass, Zostera marina L., have been investigated by a variety of manipulative techniques in the laboratory and in the field. Although seagrasses may be vegetatively moved for long distances either by oceanic transport or by experimental procedures, their survival patterns reflect the selective influence of their indigenous habitats.
Epidemiology of Clinical Medicine

Epidemiology began as an outgrowth of medicine. Many of its earliest practitioners were clinicians who recognized that poor health is often closely related to a patient's environment and that observations and interventions in groups are directly relevant to treatment and prevention of disease in individual persons. For example, the classic studies that demonstrated a causal link between contaminated drinking water and cholera emanated from Snow's belief that quantitative assessment in the community would provide the basis for prevention of illness in individual persons (1). Jenner's historic demonstration of the value of cowpox immunization in preventing smallpox was also rooted in the challenges he faced in his clinical practice (1). During the first half of the 20th century, a number of epidemiologists focused their research on topics directly relevant to clinicians. For example, Frost's observations on the transmission of tuberculosis were of great value in disease surveillance and recognition of new cases (2). However, these and similar findings by the leading epidemiologists of the day were at the periphery rather than the heart of clinical thinking and practice. As the discipline of epidemiology evolved, it became more technical and less clinically oriented. In parallel, the focus of research in medicine began to shift from the applied to the bench sciences. In part, this shift resulted from an increased capacity to conduct bench research and an expectation that enhanced understanding of basic biology would inexorably lead to improvements in the ability to cure disease. In the
Obesity Paradox and Stroke Noticing the (Fat) Man Behind the Curtain

See related articles, pages 3397 and 3646. Obesity has a well-known association with initial incidence of cardiovascular disease, stroke, cancer, and early death. However, a growing number of studies have found that overweight and frankly obese patients who survive the first event tend to have improved subsequent cardiovascular (CVD)1,2 and cerebrovascular disease burden,3,4 morbidity, and mortality. The idea that a known risk factor somehow transforms into a “protective” agent after an occurrence of a vascular clinical event—the obesity paradox—is both surreal and troubling. Should we conclude that our advice of weight loss as the yellow brick road of secondary stroke prevention (for those with above-normal body mass index [BMI]) causes actual harm? First, the definition and measurement of obesity, techniques of statistical analysis, and the various effects of the initial cerebrovascular event on the patients' weight all deserve a closer look. The article by Ovibagele et al5 is the latest study in assessing the link between obesity and recurrent vascular events in stroke survivors. The data from the PRoFESS (Prevention Regimen for Effectively Avoiding Second Strokes Trial) was reviewed with 20 246 subjects being stratified by their BMI measurements and waist circumference. The groups had some important differences: the obese subjects were younger and had a higher proportion of women but a smaller percentage of smokers. They were also more likely to have a lacunar stroke and a greater likelihood of carrying a diagnosis of diabetes, hyperlipidemia, or hypertension, and of taking antihypertensive drugs. Despite differences in the diagnosis of hypertension, the baseline median blood pressure levels were comparable between obese and nonobese subjects. After adjusting for common confounders, the authors found no statistically significant difference in the recurrence of stroke for lean (9.06%), overweight (8.82%), and obese (8.89%) groups over 2.5-year …
ORTHONORMAL ISOTROPIC VECTOR BASES

Orthonormal bases of isotropic vectors for indenite square matrices are proposed and solved. A necessary and su±cient condition is that the matrix must have zero trace. A recursive algorithm is presented for computer applications. The isotropic vectorsof3£3matrices are solvedexplicitly. Deviatoricstresses in continuum mechanics, the existence of isotropic vectors (par- ticularly in screw space), and sti®ness synthesis by springs are shown to be related to the isotropic vector problem.
The central nucleus of the amygdala is essential for acquiring and expressing conditional fear after overtraining

The basolateral complex of the amygdala (BLA) is critical for the acquisition and expression of Pavlovian fear conditioning in rats. Nonetheless, rats with neurotoxic BLA lesions can acquire conditional fear after overtraining (75 trials). The capacity of rats with BLA lesions to acquire fear memory may be mediated by the central nucleus of the amygdala (CEA). To examine this issue, we examined the influence of neurotoxic CEA lesions or reversible inactivation of the CEA on the acquisition and expression of conditional freezing after overtraining in rats. Rats with pretraining CEA lesions (whether alone or in combination with BLA lesions) did not acquire conditional freezing to either the conditioning context or an auditory conditional stimulus after extensive overtraining. Similarly, post-training lesions of the CEA or BLA prevented the expression of overtrained fear. Lastly, muscimol infusions into the CEA prevented both the acquisition and the expression of overtrained fear, demonstrating that the effects of CEA lesions are not likely due to the destruction of en passant axons. These results suggest that the CEA is essential for conditional freezing after Pavlovian fear conditioning. Moreover, overtraining may engage a compensatory fear conditioning circuit involving the CEA in animals with damage to the BLA.
Combination forceps fuse both safety and efficiency.

BACKGROUND Instrumentation prevents needle stick injury. OBJECTIVE To review forceps that insure safety and facilitate tissue-handling and knot-tying efficiency. METHOD Medical literature reports were reviewed using Ovid. Commercially available instruments were qualitatively tested. RESULTS Suture platforms securely hold suture needles and can be used during knot tying. A wide range of combination forceps have been invented and can be broadly categorized as either skin hook or toothed combination forceps. CONCLUSIONS Combination forceps fuse both efficiency and safety. Skin hook forceps may eventually be the optimal combination instrument, but toothed combination forceps are recommended.
Experiments using a sensor network, based workcell for industrial robots

As manipulators, robot arms are woefully under-utilized in modern industrial workcells. The norm involves little or no sensing, the grasp of a single known object, and the execution of a single geometric motion. In contrast, the popular ideal of a visually guided arm (as for a human) should be able to track and grab relatively arbitrary objects, under relatively arbitrary motions, across a comfortable range of velocities. Our ongoing research aims at extending these capabilities in a modern industrial workcell. We outline a framework in which these capabilities might be measured, and demonstrate experimentally the capabilities of our current prototype.
Modeling Discharge Behavior of Multicell Battery

Multicell battery has been widely used in various electrical and electronics devices. To achieve the optimal multicell battery design, accurately modeling battery discharge behavior of multicell battery is crucial. However, modeling discharge behavior of multicell battery is very challenging due to the nonlinear battery effects, nonuniform cell quality, and various cell connections. In this paper, we develop a circuit-based multicell battery model to accurately model the multicell battery discharge behavior in terms of available capacity, output voltage, and internal resistance with consideration of nonlinear battery effect and nonuniform cell quality. It also characterizes the cell discharge current distribution of cell strings in parallel connection. The proposed multicell battery model has been validated by extensive simulation and experimental results under various load conditions.
Constructive experiments with a new fuzzy adaptive controller

A new fuzzy adaptive neural network controller developed in our laboratory was recently reported. In this paper, we recap its components and some of its properties based on experiments with testbed problems and perturbations induced by statistical design of experiments considerations and certain theoretical exercises. Continuing research is being conducted on design aspects of the controller, its implementation, and its application to practical and complex processes. This paper explores the impact of language on the performance profile of the controller. >
Determination of the oligomeric states of human and rat monoamine oxidases in the outer mitochondrial membrane and octyl beta-D-glucopyranoside micelles using pulsed dipolar electron spin resonance spectroscopy.

Human monoamine oxidase A (hMAOA) is considered to be unique among mammalian MAOs in having a non-conservative Glu-X-Lys mutation (X being 151 in MAOAs and 142 in MAOB's), which is suggested to be the reason for its monomeric structure. This hypothesis has been tested in this work. A pargyline based nitroxide spin labeled irreversible inhibitor (ParSL) was used as a MAO active site specific spin probe to measure intersubunit distances in detergent (octyl ‚-D-glucopyranoside, OGP) purified and OMM bound forms by a pulsed dipolar ESR spectroscopic (PDS) technique. In a parallel approach, the covalent flavin cofactor present in the MAO active sites was reduced to its respective anionic flavin semiquinone and used for measuring inter-flavin distances in detergent purified samples. The measured interspin distances are within 0.1-0.3 nm of those estimated from the available dimeric crystal structures of human MAOB and rat MAOA and show that all human and rat MAOs exist as dimers in the OMM. In the OGP micelle, however, human and rat MAOAs exist only partially (e50%) as dimers, whereas human and rat MAOBs exist entirely as dimers. The Lys-151-Glu mutant of human MAOA and the Glu-142-Lys mutant of human MAOB exhibit similar spectral properties as the corresponding wild-type enzymes. Therefore, no role of the Glu-X residue in stabilizing dimeric structures of MAOs was found. The monomeric crystal structure reported for human MAOA is thus a result of its instability in the OGP micelles. The general applicability of the PDS technique to structural studies of membrane proteins in their native membrane environments and detergent purified forms is discussed.
Economically Optimal Stocking Rates: A Bioeconomic Grazing Model

A dynamic bioeconomic model that examines economically optimal stocking rate decisions while taking into account changes in forage availability is presented. The model presented here focuses on economically optimal stocking decisions while taking into account changes in the forage resource. The model is parameterized for a stocker operation in central Wyoming. Regardless of the scenario analyzed, the general rule of 50% utilization is determined to be an economically sound management strategy. The factors most heavily influencing economically optimal stocking rate decisions are forage growth rates and the Michaelis Constant. Both grain prices and cattle prices impact financial returns yet do not directly impact optimal stocking decisions by cattle producers.
NON-ABELIAN COHOMOLOGY VIA PARITY QUASI-COMPLEXES

The homotopy category of parity quasi-complexes is introduced. The homotopy structure is compatible with the nonabelian homology of parity quasi-complexes. Parity contracting homotopies are defined, determining the parity free resolutions in a canonical way, enabling the nonabelian bar construction. In this way, the even/odd grouping of the simplicial maps in the cocycle conditions of nonabelian cohomology is explained.
Experimental and Computational Aspects of the Time–Correlated Single Photon Counting Technique

Two important aspects of the time-correlated single photon counting technique are presented. The first, concerning the extraction of the true decay curve from the experimental data, deals with the “reference convolution method”. The second is related to the treatment of decay data by means of the “simultaneous analysis” of fluorescence decay curves. It allows for the best parameter recovery and very accurate model testing. Applications involving aqueous micellar systems, using simulated data, are briefly reviewed.
Inhibition of Salmonella typhimurium Invasion by Host Cell Expression of Secreted Bacterial Invasion Proteins

Pathogenic Salmonella species initiate infection of a host by inducing their own uptake into intestinal epithelial cells. An invasive phenotype is conferred to this pathogen by a number of proteins that are components of a type III secretion system. During the invasion process, the bacteria utilize this secretion system to release proteins that enter the host cell and apparently interact with unknown host cell components that induce alterations in the actin cytoskeleton. To investigate the role of secreted proteins as direct modulators of invasion, we have evaluated the ability of Salmonella typhimurium to enter mammalian cells that express portions of the Salmonella invasion proteins SipB and SipC. Plasma membrane localization of SipB and SipC was achieved by fusing carboxyl- and amino-terminal portions of each invasion protein to the intracellular carboxyl-terminal tail of a membrane-bound eukaryotic receptor. Expression of receptor chimeras possessing the carboxyl terminus of SipB or the amino terminus of SipC blocked Salmonella invasion, whereas expression of their chimeric counterparts had no effect on invasion. The effect on invasion was specific for Salmonella since the perturbation of uptake was not extended to other invasive bacterial species. These results suggest that Salmonella invasion can be competitively inhibited by preventing the intracellular effects of SipB or SipC. In addition, these experiments provide a model for examining interactions between bacterial invasion proteins and their host cell targets.
Capillary zone electrophoresis of interconverting cis‐trans conformers of peptidyl‐proline dipeptides: Estimation of the kinetic parameters

Peptides containing proline residues, except at the N-terminus, exist in cis and trans forms due to the rigidity of the peptidyl-proline bond. Computer-simulated and experimental electropherograms have been used to study the interplay of the electrophoretic migration and the kinetics of the cis-trans interconversion. The measure of the interference by the reaction is the dimensionless Damkohler number (Da) which is the ratio of the migrant's residence time to the characteristic time of reaction in the capillary. The fraction of the trans conformer that is not separable with 90% purity is employed to quantify the extent of overlap between the concentration profiles of the two interconverting migrants and the effect of the various operational variables was examined by simulation. The deterioration of separation, as measured by the degree of overlap, is a quasi sigmoidal function of Da with the selectivity and the intrinsic efficiency of the system as the parameters. At sufficiently low temperatures the interference by reaction kinetics may vanish and the two conformers are separated. At high enough temperatures, when the rate of interconversion is very fast, the two conformers are not separated at all. A simple and rapid method is proposed for estimation of kinetic parameters for the cis-trans isomerization on the basis of data obtained with phenylalanyl-proline dipeptide. The procedure involves determination of the equilibrium constant by measuring equilibrium concentrations of the two conformers using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) or capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) at very low temperature, correlation of the peak shapes in the electropherograms with the Da, and finally, evaluation of the forward rate constants from the assigned Da values in the domain: 0.01 < Da < 0.5. Separations using CZE were performed in the temperature range of 1–40°C by using the Beckman P/ACE unit equipped with an auxiliary cooling system. The kinetic data thus obtained showed good agreement (average error less than 5%) with those measured by NMR.
The BEAF-32 insulator coordinates genome organization and function during the evolution of Drosophila species

Understanding the relationship between genome organization and expression is central to understanding genome function. Closely apposed genes in a head-to-head orientation share the same upstream region and are likely to be coregulated. Here we identify the Drosophila BEAF-32 insulator as a cis regulatory element separating close head-to-head genes with different transcription regulation modes. We then compare the binding landscapes of the BEAF-32 insulator protein in four different Drosophila genomes and highlight the evolutionarily conserved presence of this protein between close adjacent genes. We find that changes in binding of BEAF-32 to sites in the genome of different Drosophila species correlate with alterations in genome organization caused by DNA rearrangements or genome size expansion. The cross-talk between BEAF-32 genomic distribution and genome organization contributes to new gene-expression profiles, which in turn translate into specific and distinct phenotypes. The results suggest a mechanism for the establishment of differences in transcription patterns during evolution.
Vignette and exposure calibration and compensation

We discuss calibration and removal of "vignetting" (radial falloff) and exposure (gain) variations from sequences of images. Unique solutions for vignetting, exposure and scene radiances are possible when the response curve is known. When the response curve is unknown, an exponential ambiguity prevents us from recovering these parameters uniquely. However, the vignetting and exposure variations can nonetheless be removed from the images without resolving this ambiguity. Applications include panoramic image mosaics, photometry for material reconstruction, image-based rendering, and preprocessing for correlation-based vision algorithms.
Comparison of simplified methods for quantitative analysis of [ 18 F]FDDNP PET data

Positron emission tomography (PET) with 2-(1-{6- [(2-[18F]fluoroethyl)(methyl)amino]-2-naphthyl}ethylidene)malo-nonitrile ([18F]FDDNP) has been used for in vivo imaging of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, the neuopathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The purpose of this study was to assess seven noninvasive methods for the estimation of the distribution volume ratio (DVR), as a measure of binding density of [18F]FDDNP in human brain, using a reference input (cerebellum). Imaging studies were performed on 20 AD and 13 normal control subjects. The image data were analyzed using two reference tissue modeling approaches with and without a physiological constraint on the efflux rate constant from reference tissue, Logan graphical analysis with and without a population efflux rate constant from reference tissue, and a simple concentration ratio between target and reference regions, to derive the DVR parameter. Highly linear correlations were observed among the DVR estimates except those by the tissue ratio approach which varied considerably. Reference tissue modeling approaches provided reliable estimation of DVR and gave further insight in the delivery of [18F]FDDNP to regions known to be affected by amyloid deposition. The efflux rate constant of cerebellum had minor effect on the DVR derived by Logan analysis. The [18F]FDDNP retention in subcortical white matter was similar between controls and ADs. Our results suggest that (1) Logan graphical analysis is the most robust method for quantitative analysis of [18F]FDDNP PET data without blood sampling, (2) reference tissue modeling approaches can provide further insight in helping to understand the transport properties of [18F]FDDNP and to aid model construction for kinetic analysis using the arterial input function, (3) efflux rate constant of the reference tissue can be derived with higher reliability by model fitting with physiological constraint, and (4) white matter may potentially be used as a reference region for analyzing [18F]FDDNP PET data.
Signal components, acoustic preference functions and sexual selection in a cricket

In many sexually reproducing organisms, females choose mates based on multiple male traits. This study examined how two temporal components of the male mating call – chirp rate and chirp duration – affect female mating preference in five populations of a widely distributed North American cricket, Allonemobius socius (Orthoptera, Gryllidae). Chirp rate and chirp duration of the A. socius mating call were varied independently, and the responses of virgin females to these experimentally manipulated calls were repeatedly measured using a sequential single-stimulus design. Significant among- and within-population variation in chirp-duration preferences of females were found. Contrary to many previous studies, call chirp rate had no effect on female phonotaxis. Also there was no evidence of an interaction between chirp rate and chirp duration on female response to male mating calls. Moreover, female responsiveness to average and above-average chirp duration appeared to decline with female (adult) age. Overall, these results suggest evolved differences among populations in chirp-duration preferences, and that selection can act within populations on female chirp-duration preference. © 2004 The Linnean Society of London, Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 2004, 83, 461–472.
Diabetes preventive services and policy implications in the U.S.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether the patient or physician practice characteristics predict the use of diabetes preventive care services. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study of a nationally representative sample of 27,169 adult ambulatory care visits, using the 2007 National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey data. The outcome variable is whether any preventive care services, defined as diagnostic tests (glucose, urinalysis, A1C, and blood pressure) or patient education (diet/nutrition, exercise, and stress management), were ordered/provided. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify independent predictors of diabetes preventive care services, controlling for patient and physician practice characteristics. All analyses were adjusted for the complex survey design and analytic weights. RESULTS: Compared with people without diabetes, diabetic patients were older (63 vs. 53 years; P < 0.01) and were more likely to be nonwhite and covered by Medicare insurance. In multivariate analyses, younger patients and the availability of primary care physicians, electronic medical records, and on-site laboratory tests were associated with more effective preventive care services (P < 0.05). If physician compensation relied on productivity, preventive care services were less likely (odds ratio 0.4 [95% CI 0.27-0.82 for men and 0.26-0.81 for women]). Although the patterns of patient education and diagnostic testing were similar, the provision of patient education was less likely than that of diagnostic testing. CONCLUSIONS: Primary care physicians and practice features seem to steer diabetes preventive services. Given the time constraints of physicians, strategies to strengthen structural capabilities of primary care practices and enhance partnerships with public health systems on diabetic patient education are recommended.
Image distance transforms that use optical correlation

The image distance transform is a time-consuming global operation. We use optical correlation for the fast computation of binary image distance transforms. A joint transform correlator is proposed to implement the algorithm that accommodates the morphological threshold-decomposition concept. The proposed optical processor is programmable for computing Euclidean, city-block, and chessboard distance transforms in real time. Skeletonization by use of the distance transform and the rotation invariance of the Euclidean distance transform are demonstrated.
Regular Grouping Broadcasting Plans in Wireless Mobile Environment

The broadcast problem including the plan design is considered. The data are inserted and numbered at predefined order into customized size relations. The server ability to create a full, regular Broadcast Plan (RBP) with single and multiple channels after some data transformations is examined. The Regular Geometric Algorithm (RGA) prepares a RBP and enables the users to catch their items avoiding energy waste of their devices. Moreover, the Grouping Method Algorithm (GMA) based on integrated relations can guarantee the discrimination of services using all the available number of channels. This last property among the self-monitoring, self-organizing, can be offered by servers today providing also channel availability and less energy consumption by using smaller number of channels. Simulation results are provided.
Chapter 14 Enhanced cortical maturation: Gangliosides in CNS plasticity

Publisher Summary This chapter explores the role of glycosphingolipids, which comprise the characteristic lipid bilayer of plasma membranes. Gangliosides are one group of glycosphingolipids that have engendered particular research interest. These lipid molecules are found throughout all mammalian tissues, but they are found in highest concentration in the central nervous system (CNS) and are in even higher concentrations in synaptic plasma membranes. The topographical configuration of gangliosides and their high CNS concentration make these molecules ideal for critical processes during CNS development. Gangliosides are localized to the outer plasma membrane surface wherein the hydrophobic portion of the molecule is imbedded in the plasma membrane and the hydrophilic portion of the molecule is exposed to the outer membrane surface. The levels of individual ganglioside species increase rapidly during the maturation of the mammalian brain. A critical functional role for gangliosides in the CNS is provided by the use of antibodies to gangliosides.
From writers, audiences, and communities to publics: Writing classrooms as protopublic spaces

(1999). From writers, audiences, and communities to publics: Writing classrooms as protopublic spaces. Rhetoric Review: Vol. 18, No. 1, pp. 165-178.
GROUND-SURFACE VIBRATIONS FROM ENSEMBLE SEISMIC ANALYSES

We investigate ground-surface vibrations within tens of meters from surface or near-surface excitations. Our interest is not for a specific site, but generically by subdivisions of National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program site categories associated with stiff and dense soil. To this end we consider four soil categories specified by VS 30 values 210, 270, 330, and 425 m/s. For each category we use an ensemble of propagation analyses to examine energy level and distribution of vibration responses over a surface wave field. The ensembles have as a basis a statistical layering model with correlation properties dependent on depth and layer thickness. Randomly assigned properties follow a Latin hypercube sampling. These include VS 30 , shear wave speed as a function of depth, shear-wave quality factor, water table, and the compression-to-shear wave speed ratio above the water table. The dependent variables density, compression wave speed below the water table, and compression-to-shear quality factor ratio, are based on relationships from the seismic literature. We present an example result to show effects of varying ensemble group over a 1-222 Hz band. The effects are observed by the energy in the frequency response of an axial strain quantity at 1-m depth out to 50 m range from a horizontal point force. Differences and standard deviations in energy level field reveal the relative responses of the ensembles.
Proton mediated control of biochemical reactions with bioelectronic pH modulation

In Nature, protons (H(+)) can mediate metabolic process through enzymatic reactions. Examples include glucose oxidation with glucose dehydrogenase to regulate blood glucose level, alcohol dissolution into carboxylic acid through alcohol dehydrogenase, and voltage-regulated H(+) channels activating bioluminescence in firefly and jellyfish. Artificial devices that control H(+) currents and H(+) concentration (pH) are able to actively influence biochemical processes. Here, we demonstrate a biotransducer that monitors and actively regulates pH-responsive enzymatic reactions by monitoring and controlling the flow of H(+) between PdHx contacts and solution. The present transducer records bistable pH modulation from an "enzymatic flip-flop" circuit that comprises glucose dehydrogenase and alcohol dehydrogenase. The transducer also controls bioluminescence from firefly luciferase by affecting solution pH.
BIOCHEMICAL SYSTEMATICS AND PHYLOGENETIC INTERPRETATIONS IN THE GENUS AQUILEGIA.

The trend in phytosystematic research is toward the elucidation of phylogenetic relationships. In relatively recent years many schematic representations have been designed to show such relationships. Two of the mos!t recent methods for demonstrating natural similarities are The Wagner Divergence Index (Scora, 1967) and the Simlarity Index Method (Similarity Matrix) (Sokal and Sneath, 1963; Sokal, 1966). Concepts from both of these methods of analysis have been employed in the present study to aid in the determination of evolutionary patterns in the genus Aquilegia. Analytical techniques are similar to those used in the Similarity Index Method. The various species have been grouped on the basis of biochemical affinities which may reflect their phylogeny. The characters examined were drawn from a reservoir of polar compounds including flavonoids and other phenolic pigments. Although a few of the flavonoids could be tentatively identified by comparisons of their properties with those of known compounds listed by Harborne (1967) and Geissman (1962), the identity of the large majority of the pigments examined remains unknown. They have merely been assigned a number and characterized by Rf values, absorption spectra, and physical and chemical properties exhibited under U.V. radiation, both with and without test reagents. The similarity index values were derived through computer programming. Both the divergence index method and the similarity index method are Neo-Adansonian, i.e., all characters are given equal weight. Certainly it is absurd to assume that all characters have equal significance in the determination of phylogeny. However, it has been strongly argued by advocates of the Adansonian system that in the absence of an "objective" method of character weighing a strictly numerical approach eliminates more bias than it induces. It would seem, however, that the applicability of a numerical approach would depend on the heterogeneity of the characters being considered as well as the degree of affinity among the taxa under investigation. Kendrick and Weresub (1966) have shown that the numerical approach "using haphazardly assembled, equally weighted characters, results in a haphazard classification" at least in higher fungi. On the other hand, using the Wagner Divergence Index, Hardin (1957) and Scora (19,66) devised evolutionary patterns, in the genera Aescu,lus and Monarda, respectively, which correlated very well with previously existing concepts and phytogeographical studies. It is felt that a numerical approach is equally applicable to a phylogenetic analysis of the cytogenetically similar species of Aquilegia, especially when dealing with such biogenetically related characters as the various flavonoid pigments.
Reducing the dimensionality of data streams using common sense

Increasingly, we need to computationally understand real-time streams of information in places such as news feeds, speech streams, and social networks. We present Streaming AnalogySpace, an efficient technique that discovers correlations in and makes predictions about sparse natural-language data that arrives in a real-time stream. AnalogySpace is a noise-resistant PCA-based inference technique designed for use with collaboratively collected common sense knowledge and semantic networks. Streaming AnalogySpace advances this work by computing it incrementally using CCIPCA, and keeping a dense cache of recently-used features to efficiently represent a sparse and open domain. We show that Streaming AnalogySpace converges to the results of standard AnalogySpace, and verify this by evaluating its accuracy empirically on common-sense predictions against standard AnalogySpace.
Vowel Height Allophony and Dorsal Place Contrasts in Cochabamba Quechua

This paper reports on the results of two studies investigating the role of allophony in cueing phonemic contrasts. In Cochabamba Quechua, the uvularvelar place distinction is often cued by additional differences in the height of the surrounding vowels. An acoustic study documents the lowering effect of a preceding tautomorphemic or a following heteromorphemic uvular on the high vowels /i u/. A discrimination study finds that vowel height is a significant cue to the velar-uvular place contrast. These findings support a view of contrasts as collections of distinguishing properties, as opposed to oppositions in a single distinctive feature.
Two Central Obstacles to Russian Academic Excellence

Russian higher education must solve several key problems if world-class status is to be achieved. These include including the academies of science, where most research is done, into the universities, and linking many of the independent medical universities with the mainstream universities.
Spectrally selective thermal emitter with flat metallic films based on tunneling effect

We proposed and experimentally demonstrated a mechanism to achieve spectrally-selective metallic emitters based on tunneling effect. This effect allows a simple flat metal film to achieve near-unity emissivity with controlled spectral selectivity for efficient heat-to-light energy conversion.
Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS)

This section provides a comprehensive procedural report for transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) procedure with up-to-date explanatory notes, synopsis of the indications and contraindications, and potential complications in an organized and practical format.
Community Mental Health Services for Older Adults in the United States

Recent studies have estimated that although a significant number of the elderly have mental health problems, their treatment needs have not been adequately addressed (Lebowitz, Light and Bailey 1987; Raschko 1985; Smyer and Prucho 1984; Spore and Atchley 1990). Between 15 and 25% of older persons experience some form of mental illness, ranging from depression, anxiety, bereavement adjustment problems, and substance abuse to schizophrenia, personality disorders, paranoia, compulsive behaviors, and dementia. As a result of the rapid demographic increase in the total number of older adults worldwide, the number of older individuals who need treatment for mental disorders is also increasing rapidly. The United States Congressional Record (1989) has reported that as many as seven million older Americans may need mental health services, which will create a crisis in the almost non-existent mental health service delivery infrastructure currently in place. This crisis is evidenced not only in the United States; most developing countries, as a result of better healthcare technology, are experiencing growing numbers of older adults in the population, with concomitant increasing needs for mental health care. EURODEP Concerted Action Program surveyed cites in Europe to determine the rates of depressive illness in older adults. Results indicate that depressive illness alone affects between 8.8% to 23.6% of persons 65 and older (Copeland et al. 1999).
Biology of Prokaryotic Probiotics

Bacteria and archaea are two distinct phyla of the prokaryotic kingdom containing many different species of microorganisms. Prokaryotic probiotics are single-celled nonnucleated organisms which when consumed live in adequate numbers confer a health benefit to the host. They can be classified based on morphology, ability to form spores, method of energy production, nutritional requirements, and reaction to the Gram stain. Currently, there are no known probiotic archaea but they have an important potential in the synthesis of prebiotics and other bioproducts due to their unique characteristics. There are however, probiotic bacteria mainly coming from the genera of Lactobacillus and bifidobacteria. Lactobacillus has 106 validly described species, out of which 56 species have probiotic potential. On the other hand, Bifidobacteria currently has 30 species validly described, with 8 having probiotic capabilities. A close study of these microorganisms reveal that probiotic bacteria are likely to be Gram positive, mostly rod shaped but with fewer spherically shaped ones, nonspore forming and nonflagellated bacteria.
Evaluation of a Test Strip Used to Monitor Food Processing Sanitation.

A test strip, which contained a small absorbent pad on the end of a plastic strip for detection of microbial contamination of liquids and surfaces, was compared to standard rinse solution and surface contact methods. Bottles and food contact surfaces were unclean, cleaned or cleaned and sanitized before being evaluated with test methods. Results from test strips correlated well with those of the standard rinse solution method for bottles that were clean and/or sterilized, but not for those that were heavily contaminated. When test strips were used on cleaned contact surfaces, counts were one log cycle greater than those of contact plate or swab methods; however, the three surface methods correlated well for surfaces that were cleaned and sanitized. To insure that the contact methods were recovering microorganisms, surfaces were spread with known levels of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus . Results correlated well for low levels of contamination, but not for levels greater than 1 × 104 organisms/25 cm2 Overall, test strips could be used for quick indication of sanitation of cleaned and sanitized food contact surfaces and containers if special precautions and limitations were understood.
Interactive Book Reading to Accelerate Word Learning by Kindergarten Children with Specific Language Impairment: Identifying an Adequate Intensity and Variation in Treatment Response.

Purpose This study sought to identify an adequate intensity of interactive book reading for new word learning by children with specific language impairment (SLI) and to examine variability in treat...
HiJAKing the epigenome in leukemia and lymphoma

The Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathway is central to signaling by receptors of diverse cytokines, growth factors, and other related molecules. Many of these receptors transmit anti-apoptosis, proliferation, and differentiation signals that are critical for normal hematopoiesis and immune response. However, the JAK/STAT signaling pathway is deregulated in many hematologic malignancies, and as such is co-opted by malignant cells to promote their survival and proliferation. It has recently come to light that an alternative mechanism, wherein nuclear JAKs epigenetically modify the chromatin to increase gene expression independent of STATs, also plays an important role in the pathogenesis of many hematologic malignancies. In this review, we will focus on common genetic alterations of the JAK family members in leukemia and lymphoma, and provide examples in which JAKs regulate gene expression by targeting the cancer epigenome.
Phylogenetic Relationships and the Radiation of Sigmodontine Rodents in South America: Evidence from Cytochrome b

Phylogenetic relationships among South American sigmodontine rodents were examined based on the complete sequence for the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene [1140 base pairs (bp)] for 66 species and between 759 and 1140 bp for an additional 19 species. Thirty-eight South American genera were represented, coming from eight of nine tribes. Outgroups included the North American murid rodents Peromyscus, Reithrodontomys, Scotinomys, and Neotoma, the Old World murine rodents Mus and Rattus, and the geomyoid genera Thomomys, Geomys, Dipodomys, and Perognathus as the most distant outgroup. The South American sigmodontines were supported as a monophyletic lineage. Within this radiation several clear-cut suprageneric groupings were identified. Many of the currently recognized tribal groupings of genera were found fairly consistently, although not always with high levels of bootstrap support. The various tribes could not be linked hierarchically with any confidence. In addition, several genera stand out as unique entities, without any apparent close relatives. The overall pattern suggests a rapid radiation of the sigmodontines in South America, followed by differentiation at the tribal and generic levels.
Long-term maintenance requirements of the riparian isopod, Lirceus sp.

Riparian isopods possess many traits that make them ideal candidates for a wide range of ecological and evolutionary studies, but they are under-utilized because long-term maintenance under laboratory conditions has been largely unsuccessful. We explored a variety of experimental conditions to determine those necessary to maintain captive populations. Our studies demonstrated that starting colonies with water from the natal stream, filtering the water in a way that causes agitation at the surface of the water, maintaining colonies in full-spectrum light at room temperature or colder, lining the bottom of containers with a coarse benthos, and providing a leaf pack that contains Norway maple leaves are important criteria for successful maintenance of individuals of Lirceus sp. colonies for periods of over 6 weeks in the laboratory. Water changes do not require addition of water from the natal stream, whether the containers are glass or plastic is inconsequential, aeration does not need to be high-powered, and refrigeration of colonies is not necessary for this species of riparian isopod. We expect identifying the minimum husbandry needs will facilitate research using these organisms.
Evaluation of Nitrogen Concentration in Final Effluent of Advanced Nitrogen-Removal Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS)

Advanced nitrogen (N)-removal onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS) are installed in coastal areas throughout the USA to reduce N loading to groundwater and marine waters. However, final effluent total nitrogen (TN) concentration from these systems is not always routinely monitored, making it difficult to determine the extent to which they contribute to N loads. We monitored the final effluent TN concentration of 42 advanced N-removal OWTS within the Greater Narragansett Bay Watershed, Rhode Island between March 2015 and August 2016. The compliance rate with the State of Rhode Island final effluent standard (TN ≤ 19 mg N/L) was 64.3, 70.6, and 75.0% for FAST, Advantex, and SeptiTech systems, respectively. The median (range) final effluent TN concentration (mg N/L) was 11.3 (0.1–41.6) for SeptiTech, 14.9 (0.6–61.6) for Advantex, and 17.1 (0.6–104.9) for FAST systems. Variation in final effluent TN concentration was not driven by temperature; TN concentrations plotted against effluent temperature values resulted in R 2 values of 0.001 for FAST, 0.007 for Advantex, and 0.040 for SeptiTech systems. The median effluent TN concentration for all the systems in our study (16.7 mg N/L) was greater than reported for Barnstable County, MA systems (13.3 mg N/L), which are monitored quarterly. Depending on technology type, ammonium (NH4 +), nitrate (NO3 −), alkalinity, forward flow, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), and effluent temperature best predicted effluent TN concentrations. Service providers made adjustments to seven underperforming systems, but TN was reduced to 19 mg N/L in only two of the seven systems. Advanced N-removal OWTS can reduce TN to meet regulations, and monitoring of these systems can enable service providers to proactively manage systems. However, improvement of performance may require recursive adjustments and long-term monitoring.
Whole-body exposure to 28Si-radiation dose-dependently disrupts dentate gyrus neurogenesis and proliferation in the short term and new neuron survival and contextual fear conditioning in the long term

Astronauts traveling to Mars will be exposed to chronic low doses of galactic cosmic space radiation, which contains highly charged, high-energy (HZE) particles. 56Fe-HZE-particle exposure decreases hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) neurogenesis and disrupts hippocampal function in young adult rodents, raising the possibility of impaired astronaut cognition and risk of mission failure. However, far less is known about how exposure to other HZE particles, such as 28Si, influences hippocampal neurogenesis and function. To compare the influence of 28Si exposure on indices of neurogenesis and hippocampal function with previous studies on 56Fe exposure, 9-week-old C57BL/6J and Nestin-GFP mice (NGFP; made and maintained for 10 or more generations on a C57BL/6J background) received whole-body 28Si-particle-radiation exposure (0, 0.2 and 1 Gy, 300 MeV/n, LET 67 KeV/μ, dose rate 1 Gy/min). For neurogenesis assessment, the NGFP mice were injected with the mitotic marker BrdU at 22 h postirradiation and brains were exa...