cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Quantized Hamilton dynamics describes quantum discrete breathers in a simple way

We study the localization of energy in a nonlinear coupled system, exhibiting so-called breather modes, using quantized Hamilton dynamics (QHD). Already at the lowest order, which is only twice as complex as classical mechanics, this simple semiclassical method incorporates quantum-mechanical effects. The transition between the localized and delocalized regimes is instantaneous in classical mechanics, while it is gradual due to tunneling in both quantum mechanics and QHD. In contrast to classical mechanics, which predicts an abrupt appearance of breathers, quantum mechanics and QHD show an alternation of localized and delocalized behavior in the transient region. QHD includes zero-point energy that is reflected in a shifted energy asymptote for the localized states, providing another improvement on the classical perspective. By detailed analysis of the distribution and transfer of energy within classical mechanics, QHD, and quantum dynamics, we conclude that QHD is an efficient approach that accounts for moderate quantum effects and can be used to identify quantum breathers in large nonlinear systems.
Computer Modeling of Hailstone Growth in Feeder Clouds

Abstract The growth of hailstones is studied using a one-dimensional non-steady-state model of a growing feeder cloud. Conditions within the mature cloud are assumed to be adiabatic. Vertical velocity and liquid water content profiles change at a predetermined rate, beginning with small values and gradually increasing to values that can be expected in a mature thunderstorm. Hailstone growth equations used in the model are developed in terms of the well-known dry- and wet-growth regimes and include terms that account for growth in a mixture of supercooled cloud droplets and ice crystals. Hailstone embryos in the form of liquid cloud droplets are introduced into the model at various heights and times, and the subsequent trajectories are analyzed. Different versions of the model that incorporate changes in updraft magnitude and shape are tested. Results show that the model produces hailstones, radii ranging from near zero to 1.3 cm in 40 min or less, from 20 to 50 μ radius embryos introduced under a variety ...
Enhanced induction of HIV-specific CTL by dendritic cell-targeted delivery of SOCS-1 siRNA

Background Dendritic cells (DC) are potent antigen-presenting cells that play a critical role in the activation of T cells. Antigen-loaded dendritic cell-based vaccines have been used for immunotherapy of human cancers and chronic infections, but only with limited success. RNAi-mediated silencing of negative immunoregulatory molecules expressed by DCs may provide a strategy to enhance the potency of DC-based vaccines and immunotherapy.
Characterization of single crystals of CeCu2Si2. A source of new perspectives

We report the first thorough characterization of single crystals of Ce${\mathrm{Cu}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Si}}_{2}$. Measurements on these flux-grown crystals, which are not superconducting above 0.050 K, include ac susceptibility, resistivity, Hall effect, and specific heat. A review of other measurements is given, and the implications of our single-crystal data are discussed. Specifically, our data are consistent with superconductivity in Ce${\mathrm{Cu}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Si}}_{2}$ being destroyed by having too low a Kondo temperature, although ${T}_{\mathrm{Kondo}}$ is not found to be inversely proportional to $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ as previously claimed. The entropy associated with the low-temperature specific-heat anomaly is found to be only $0.66R \mathrm{ln}2$, in contrast to the previous result of $R \mathrm{ln}2$ for polycrystalline material. The lack of superconductivity in our single crystals does not appear to be due to poor stoichiometry to \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}5%, as proposed previously for single crystals grown by a Bridgman technique. The possibility of charge-density waves suppressing superconductivity in strain-free material is discussed, although no experimental verification is found.
An efficient demand-driven and density-controlled publish/subscribe protocol for mobile environments

A protocol for high-density Mobile Ad Hoc Networks (MANETs) is presented. Subscription-Based Permission (SP) routing extends Self-Balancing Supply/Demand (SBSD) protocols, which combine the Publish/Subscribe paradigm and demand-controlled flooding. The goal of SP is to reduce redundant broadcasting without sacrificing coverage, by exploiting high density. SP defines η sets of brokers, each set refusing to accept replicas of a fraction (1/η) of all subscription types. The value of η is determined such that each set is expected to comprise a connected dominating set. Given a theoretical mobile device population N0 sufficient to achieve one connected dominating graph and an actual network population N > N0, we show that SBSD-SP increases subscription propagation areas by a factor of (N/N0) without materially sacrificing reachability. This improves network throughput by a factor of (N/N0), as publications are delivered to (N/N0) times as many brokers.
Interface and molecular electronic structure vs tunneling characteristics of CH3- and CF3-terminated thiol monolayers on Au(111).

By means of density functional theory calculations, we investigate work functions, energy level alignments, charge transfers, and tunneling characteristics of CH3- and CF3-terminated alkane- and diphenylthiol monolayers on Au(111). While the alignments of the energy levels and the charge transfers at the metal−molecule interface are found to be determined by the value of the clean Au surface work function relative to the HOMO ionization potential (IP) at the thiolate end of the monolayer, the change of work function for the modified Au(111) surface is dominated by the properties of the thiolate monolayer, including the character, saturated or conjugated, of the molecule and the chemical nature and orientation of the terminal group. The tunneling currents through the adsorbed molecular monolayers are calculated using the Tersoff−Hamann approach. The computed difference between the I−V characteristics for the CH3- and CF3-terminated alkanethiol monolayers agree well with available experimental data. The ene...
A Presumptive Role for Leukotrienes in Obstructive Airways Diseases

The likelihood that the leukotriene products derived from the 5-lipoxygenase pathway mediate aspects of obstructive airways diseases is strongly suggested by their documented capacities to effect airway spasmogenicity, airway hyperreactivity, tissue edema formation, mucus secretion, and tissue infiltration by leukocytes. That the various leukotriene components of SRS-A have unique receptors on responding tissues and are recoverable from airway surfaces in several inflammatory lung diseases and that several resident and infiltrating cell types have significant potential for leukotriene biosynthesis lend further support to their postulated pathobiologic roles. To fulfill Koch's postulates for proof of leukotrienes' etiologic role, it remains to be shown that inhibition of their biosynthesis or specific antagonism at their end-organ receptors can greatly ameliorate these disease states.
Hirsutism: Metabolic effects of two commonly used oral contraceptives and spironolactone☆

Fifty-one hirsute women were randomly treated for nine months with ethinyl estradiol 35 ug plus norethindrone 0.4 mg or 30 ug ethinyl estradiol plus 1.5 mg norethindrone acetate if they needed contraception or spironolactone 200 mg daily if they did not. Metabolic evaluations in response to therapy demonstrated triglyceride elevations with the two oral contraceptives but not with spironolactone. While systolic blood pressure was lower with spironolactone, fasting insulin levels were higher as opposed to either low-dose oral contraceptive preparation. Ethinyl estradiol 30 ug plus 1.5 mg norethindrone acetate lowered 3-alpha-diol glucuronide levels, yet ethinyl estradiol 35 ug plus norethindrone 0.4 mg and spironolactone were more effective in lowering Ferriman-Gallwey Scores. Treatment strategies for hirsute women need to consider metabolic consequences as well as efficacy.
Decision Making in Living Cells: Lessons from a Simple System

The life cycle of bacteriophage lambda serves as a simplified paradigm for cell-fate decisions. The ongoing quantitative, high-resolution experimental investigation of this life cycle has produced some important insights in recent years. These insights have to do with the way cells choose among alternative fates, how they maintain long-term memory of their gene-expression state, and how they switch from one stable state to another. The recent studies have highlighted the role of spatiotemporal effects in cellular processes and the importance of distinguishing chemical stochasticity from possible hidden variables in cellular decision making.
Refining a telenovela intervention: Stakeholders' perspectives

Abstract Understanding Mexican American (MA) elders' use of home health care services (HHCS) and elders' reactions to interventions designed to increase HHCS use is vital to address disparities (e.g., MA elders use HHCS less yet have more disabilities with earlier onset than other groups). Dialog notes from a telenovela intervention and interviews with two additional elder-caregiver dyads were content analyzed and revealed ways to improve the telenovela, fitting with Narrative Theory. Further contributions by a community advisory council resulted in a revised script and illustrated how research participants and community members can shape interventions to achieve equity in vulnerable populations' healthcare utilization.
The relevance of somatosensory evoked potentials during thoracic aorta aneurysm repair.

S OMATOSENSORY evoked potential (SSEP) monitoring is used extensively for assessing spinal cord function during various surgical procedures.“’ In major vascular repairs of the aorta, SSEP monitoring has been used to determine the adequacy of blood flow to the spinal cord during aortic cross-clamping.3-5 Several studies have emphasized the benefits of SSEP monitoring during thoracic aorta aneurysm repair6-8; however, in considering the efficacy of this monitor, no distinction has been made between patients undergoing a simple clamp and repair surgical technique versus patients having a vascular bypass. Following is a report of three cases of simple clamp and repair aneurysmal resection of the thoracic or thoracoabdominal aorta in which SSEP monitoring was used and showed significant changes. These cases demonstrate some of the difficulties that may be encountered with interpretation of evoked potentials in this setting.
Taxol formation in yew — Taxus

Abstract In Pacific yew, Taxus brevifolia , taxol is found most abundantly in the vascular cambial region followed by the phloem, sapwood and heartwood. It is in this order that ‘in vitro’ taxol biosynthetic activity was also demonstrated using [1- 14 C]acetate as a precursor. However, only traces of taxol biosynthesis could be demonstrated in the xylem (sapwood-heartwood) suggesting that taxol may be mobilized from its place of greatest biosynthetic activity (vascular cambial region) to the xylem; perhaps via ray parenchyma. Taxol could also be effectively trapped under ‘bark flaps’, over a period of several weeks, using silica gel powder as an adsorbant. In vitro taxol biosynthesis using [1- 14 C]acetate in outer bark samples (cambium-phloem) could only be demonstrated in Taxus brevifolia, Taxus floridana and Taxus canadensis , among 10 of the 11 native Taxus species tested.
Linear IgA Bullous Dermatosis in a Neonate

: A newborn black boy had two facial blisters at birth that progressed to bullous lesions over the trunk, genitals, extremities, and oral and tracheal mucosa. A biopsy specimen demonstrated a subepidermal bulla with mixed eosinophilic and neutrophille, inflammatory infiltrate. Direct immunofluorescence showed linear IgA, IgG, and C3 depositions along the basement membrane zone, consistent with a diagnosis of childhood linear IgA bullous dermatosis (chronic bullous dermatosis of childhood). The skin disease was controlled with combined prednisone and dipsone. This is the youngest reported patient with the disease. Linear IgA bullous dermatosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of blistering diseases of the newborn, and immunofluorescence should be performed on a skin biopsy specimen.
Cycloadditions of non-stabilized azomethine ylides and quinones synthesis of the Reniera isoindole

Abstract Azomethine ylides, generated from cyanomethylamino silanes and excess silver fluoride, undergo cycloaddition with quinones to give, after oxidation in situ , quinonoid isoindoles. This reaction provides the key step for a short, high yield synthesis of the Reniera isoindole 1a.
Grating Efficiency Measurement And Automated Scatter Inspection System (GEMASIS)

The GEMASIS is an automated device for general characterization of diffraction and surface scatter. Samples can be measured for out-of-plane as well as for in-plane incidence conditions. In-plane characterization includes angle-resolved measurements of scatter and diffraction orders. The device is described and typical data are shown.
SciCSM: novel contrast set mining over scientific datasets using bitmap indices

Contrast set mining is a broadly applicable exploratory technique, which identifies interesting differences across contrast groups. The existing algorithms primarily target relational datasets with categorical attributes. There is clearly a need to apply this method to discover interesting patterns across scientific datasets, which feature arrays with numeric values. In this paper, we present a novel algorithm, SciCSM, for efficient contrast set mining over array-based datasets. We define how "interesting" contrast sets can be characterized for numeric and array data -- handling the fact that subsets can involve both value-based and/or dimension-based attributes. We extensively use bitmap indices to reduce computational complexity and enable processing of larger-scale data. We demonstrate both high efficiency and effectiveness of our algorithm by using multiple real-life datasets.
Improvement and expansion of the Fmask algorithm: cloud, cloud shadow, and snow detection for Landsats 4–7, 8, and Sentinel 2 images

Abstract Identification of clouds, cloud shadows and snow in optical images is often a necessary step toward their use. Recently a new program (named Fmask) designed to accomplish these tasks was introduced for use with images from Landsats 4–7 (Zhu & Woodcock, 2012). In this paper, there are the following: (1) improvements in the Fmask algorithm for Landsats 4–7; (2) a new version for use with Landsat 8 that takes advantage of the new cirrus band; and (3) a prototype algorithm for Sentinel 2 images. Though Sentinel 2 images do not have a thermal band to help with cloud detection, the new cirrus band is found to be useful for detecting clouds, especially for thin cirrus clouds. By adding a new cirrus cloud probability and removing the steps that use the thermal band, the Sentinel 2 scenario achieves significantly better results than the Landsats 4–7 scenario for all 7 images tested. For Landsat 8, almost all the Fmask algorithm components are the same as for Landsats 4–7, except a new cirrus cloud probability is calculated using the new cirrus band, which improves detection of thin cirrus clouds. Landsat 8 results are better than the Sentinel 2 scenario, with 6 out of 7 test images showing higher accuracies.
The Relationship between Transliminality and Boundary Structure Subscales

An opportunity sample of 98, mostly undergraduate [1], participants completed Thalbourne's Transliminality Scale (Form B) [2–3] plus three subscales from Hartmann's Boundary Structure Questionnaire...
THE CARDIAC AND VASCULAR EFFECTS OF SODIUM GLUTAMATE

1. The cardiovascular effects of sodium glutamate were investigated in anaesthetized dogs with bolus injections, intravenous infusions and rabbit isolated papillary muscles. 2. The intravenous bolus injections of sodium glutamate resulted in slight, transient decreases in contractile force at doses of 58 and 117 mg/kg, which were followed by brief increases in blood pressure. 3. Sodium glutamate had no effect on contractile responses of isolated papillary muscles at any of the concentrations used. 4. Infusions of glutamate produced no change in blood pressure, an increase in cardiac output, and a decrease in heart rate, total peripheral resistance and femoral vascular resistance. 5. The infusion of sodium glutamate into animals with no renal function resulted in an increased plasma osmolality and a decreased haematocrit. 6. The results from this study show that sodium glutamate had minimal cardiovascular effects. The results from the infusion data suggest that glutamate increases intravascular volume by an osmotic effect.
Image transfer solutions for future demand

Ever increasing need for smaller and functionally more integrated electronics devices such as smart phone, IC package substrate is forcing changes in materials for PWB imaging. This paper will provide insights how new materials developments are offering improved capabilities to produce such a high-end, fine-line PWBs along with imaging process considerations. The fabrication processes involved in the production of fine-line printed wiring boards will be also reviewed in some detail, between subtractive processes (which will not meet future needs) and semi-additive processes as well as emerging damascene-type of structure. This paper will highlight an overview of the importance that material and process selection has on the capability of PWB fabricators to meet the challenges in the future and provide insights into future direction based on evolving market needs
Functional analysis of stereotypical ear covering in a child with autism

We studied stereotypical ear covering in a child with autism. Results of a descriptive analysis were inconclusive but revealed a correlation between ear covering and another child's screaming. An analogue functional analysis showed that ear covering was emitted only when the screaming was present.
DNA barcoding of parasites and invertebrate disease vectors: what you don't know can hurt you.

Only a small fraction of extant species is known to science. Recently, there have been calls to census all biological diversity. Traditional morphology-based assessments are time-consuming and require specialists whose numbers are insufficient and dwindling. A DNA-based method called DNA barcoding has been proposed as a rapid means of cataloguing species. This initiative is especially attractive with respect to parasites for which morphometrics are difficult or impossible, and their mosquito hosts for which morphological expertise is rare. As an index of diversity, DNA barcoding is distinct from the science of circumscribing species and resolving their evolutionary relationships, but it can serve as a powerful scaffold both to motivate and guide these efforts.
Further evidence on coding in reading-disabled children

The experiment reported here used the release-from-proactive-inhibition paradigm to explore encoding differences between normal readers and reading-disabled children. The two groups performed comparably when the dimension of similarity was semantic or phonetic. Differences in performance were found with visually similar words. These data converge with those from other recent reports to raise serious questions about a strong form of the phonetic coding deficiency hypothesis of specific reading disability.
Another Look at Reasoning Experiments: Rationality, Normative Models and Conversational Factors

In many studies, human reasoning has been depicted as “biased” or deviating from normative models in both areas of deductive and inductive reasoning. Two criteria for evaluation of reasoning studies are proposed in this paper. The first criterion concerns the selection and application of normative models against which human performance is assessed. The second criterion concerns the role of conversational factors in the differential selection of information used in the subsequent judgment. These two criteria were applied to studies on two tasks from the fields of deductive and inductive reasoning, the Wason selection task and the base rate fallacy. In view of alternative normative systems, control of the application of the normative models used and the perceived conversational relevance of the information presented in the experimental tasks, the alleged biases have been demonstrated to be largely unsupported. The analysis is consistent with the notion that human reasoning is optimal and rational. The implications of the present account for reasoning experiments are discussed.
The Mutual Symbiosis Between Inclusive Bi-lingual Education and Multicultural Education

In this article the authors postulate a mutual symbiosis between multicultural and inclusive bi-lingual education. Combining bi-lingual and multicultural education to create a symbiotic relationship can stimulate reform in schools and can promote inclusive educational systems, thereby keeping native languages and cultures alive for minority students and enhancing native English speakers’ language and cultural understandings.
More About Less: A Study of Language Comprehension.

Children in the age range from three to seven were tested in two experiments for their comprehension of the terms more and less . The findings of Donaldson and Balfour (1968) were replicated for both discrete and continuous substances and it was observed that even at age seven some children have not yet differentiated these two terms. Semantic differential ratings by the children gave independent support for these findings. The results were discussed in terms of general cognitive development and conservation tasks.
Pinwheels: visualizing information flow in an architectural space

We envision that the architectural spaces we inhabit will become an interface between humans and online digital information. We have been designing ambient information displays to explore the use of kinetic physical objects to present information at the periphery of human perception.This paper reports the design of a large-scale Pinwheels installation made of 40 computer-controlled pinwheel units in a museum context. The Pinwheels spin in a "wind of bits" that blows from cyberspace. The array of spinning pinwheels presents information within an architectural space through subtle changes in movement and sound.We describe the iterative design and implementation of the Pinwheels, and discuss design issues.
Chronic inflammatory effects of interleukin-1 on the blood-retina barrier.

Abstract The chronic effects of human recombinant IL-1 (hrIL-1) on the specialized vasculature of the central nervous system (CNS) and on the CNS itself have been examined ove a 35-day period in the rabbit retina. A single intraocular injection of physiological levels of hrIL-1 (300 units) induced a biphasic inflammatory reaction with well-defined acute and chronic phases in the challenged eye. Quantitative histopathological examination of the vascularized portion of the retina in the IL-1-challenged eye documented a persistent mononuclear (MN) cell response that peaked 7–14 days post-challenge. Included in the MN cell count were perivascular plasma cells. Elevated protein levels in the vitreous persisted throughou the time points studied and alterations in vascular permeability of the epiretinal vessels were demonstrated by tracer leakage at 2 weeks post-challenge. The results show that exposure of the CNS-vasulature to IL-1 nduced long-lasting inflammatory changes typical of a chronic inflammatory reaction.
Ultrastructural studies of early morphogenesis and cytodifferentiation in the embryonic mammalian pancreas

Summary Early morphogensis and cytodifferentiation of mouse embryonic pancreas have been investigated. The organ forms as a broad-based diverticulum whose base narrows to form the duct. A crescent of cells, believed to be involved in morphogenesis, is found in each lateral wall of the gut. Changes of the crescents with time and the ultrastructure of cells in them is discussed. A model is presented to explain elevation of the pancreatic diverticulum which depends upon (1) alteration in crescent cell cross-sectional shape and (2) upon some relative movement of cells out of the crescent region. Low levels of endocrine and exocrine cell-specific product can first be detected as this morphogenetic process starts ( Rutter et al. , 1968 ). Rough endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and various vesicles are seen in presumed exocrine cells at these times, but no prozymogen granules have been found. Prospective B-cells can first be identified by increased cytoplasmic electron density; soon thereafter β-granules appear. These correlations of structure are discussed in light of the biochemical information. All told, the data suggest a close temporal linkage between initial specific synthesis and initial organ morphogenesis.
Fine structural alterations with age in the fat body of the adult male housefly, Musca domestica.

The fat body of the adult housefly is composed of two types of cells, the lipid-and glycogen-rich fat body cells and the oenocytes. A comparison of the fine structure of the abdominal fat body in 4-day old and 31–35 day old male houseflies indicated an increase in lipid and a decrease in glycogen content in the fat body cells of old flies. Oenocytes of old flies exhibit deteriorative alterations with an accumulation of secondary lysosomes. Both fat body cells and oenocytes in senile flies are ingested by hemocytes.
Effect of α-methyltryptamine on spontaneous activity in mice☆

A standard dose of 10 mg/kg (48 mu mole/kg) of (+/-)-alpha-methyltryptamine (AMT) induced a significant and long lasting increase in spontaneous activity in mice. Pretreatment of mice with either pimozide or alpha-methyl-para-tyrosine methyl ester HCl (AMPT) prevented the activity increase induced by AMT. In similar trials, methysergide or para-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA) were also found to antagonize the development of hyperactivity following a standard dose of AMT. The results suggest that both endogenous dopamine and serotonin many participate in the hyperactivity induced by AMT.
STUDIES ON EXPERIMENTAL HYPERTENSION : XI. THE EFFECT OF EXCISION OF THE CAROTID SINUSES ON EXPERIMENTAL HYPERTENSION PRODUCED BY RENAL ISCHEMIA.

Excision of both carotid sinuses, with or without section of cardio-aortic inhibitor fibers, was not followed by a significant change of femoral mean blood pressure from the normal. This procedure did not interfere with the development of hypertension produced by renal ischemia. There was no significant difference between the levels of hypertension due to renal ischemia in animals with both carotid sinuses previously excised and in those with both carotid sinuses intact. In one of three animals with hypertension due to renal ischemia, in which the elevated blood pressure had gradually subsided, there was a slight and only temporary reelevation of pressure after excision of both carotid sinuses. In the other two animals, excision of the carotid sinuses had no effect on the blood pressure. In all three, however, increased constriction of the renal arteries caused significant and persistent reelevation of the blood pressure. The carotid sinus has no demonstrable influence upon hypertension caused by renal ischemia, although in such animals it probably plays the same part in the regulation of blood pressure as it does in normal animals (7).
A pulsed power supply for Tokamak equilibrium field coils

An efficient thyristor switching circuit generates 1.1 kJ magnet pulses. A 1 - cos ωt current rise of typically 2 ms is adjustable in magnitude and duration. It is followed by a 100 ms flattop and a 1 + cos ωt current decrease.
Estimating the ages of successional stands of tropical trees from growth increments

Inability to age tropical trees has imposed major limitations on the basic and applied science of tropical forests. Here advantage was taken of even-aged stands present in successional chronosequences found on Amazonian whitewater river- meanders to simplify the assumptions needed to estimate tree ages from growth measurements. Growth increments of eight conmnmon- early successional species were measured in 21 0.5-ha plots evenly distributed over chronosequ- ences from the earliest post-pioneer stage to mature Ficus-Cedrela stands representing approxin- ately the mid-point of primary succession. Increment measurements, based on 4 or 5 y of growth, were arrayed in scatter diagrams against the midpoints of the growth intervals. A loess regression of the points, weighted for the higher mortality of slow-growving indivicluals, was then conductecl to genierate a 'best estimate lifetime gr-owth trajectory' (BELGT) of a 'typical' inclividual sur-viving to maturity. The BELGT curves were integrated to generate a set of derived curves describing the time required by a 'typical' surviving individual to attain any given size up to the maximum for the species. Predictions of the ages of particular stands were derivecl from these latter curves and found to agree within 3 to 20% of ages independently estimated from the rate of point bar accretion.
Established native perennial grasses out-compete an invasive annual grass regardless of soil water and nutrient availability

Competition and resource availability influence invasions into native perennial grasslands by non-native annual grasses such as Bromus tectorum. In two greenhouse experiments we examined the influence of competition, water availability, and elevated nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) availability on growth and reproduction of the invasive annual grass B. tectorum and two native perennial grasses (Elymus elymoides, Pascopyrum smithii). Bromus tectorum aboveground biomass and seed production were significantly reduced when grown with one or more established native perennial grasses. Conversely, average seed weight and germination were significantly lower in the B. tectorum monoculture than in competition native perennial grasses. Intraspecific competition reduced per-plant production of both established native grasses, whereas interspecific competition from B. tectorum increased production. Established native perennial grasses were highly competitive against B. tectorum, regardless of water, N, or P availability. Bromus tectorum reproductive potential (viable seed production) was not significantly influenced by any experimental manipulation, except for competition with P. smithii. In all cases, B. tectorum per-plant production of viable seeds exceeded parental replacement. Our results show that established plants of Elymus elymoides and Pascopyrum smithii compete successfully against B. tectorum over a wide range of soil resource availability.
Prognostic importance of lymph node tumor burden in melanoma patients staged by sentinel node biopsy.

Background The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between nodal tumor burden and the outcomes of recurrence and survival in sentinel node-positive melanoma patients.
Edge detection using fast Bidimensional Empirical Mode Decomposition and mathematical morphology

This article presents an edge detection method using fast Bidimensional EMD and mathematical morphological methods. It is shown that the detection results are better than other comparable algorithms. The optimization of the presented algorithm extracts sufficient features for intended applications.
The Impact of Family Functioning on Family Racial Socialization Processes

This longitudinal study evaluated the relationship between family functioning and family racial socialization processes in a clinical sample of African American youth referred for drug abuse treatment. Participants were 77 African American adolescents and their parents. Results showed that participants assigned to structural ecosystems therapy experienced a greater increase in family racial socialization processes during treatment than participants assigned to the treatment as usual in community settings condition. Participants in structural ecosystems therapy also demonstrated a greater increase in family functioning than participants in community settings condition, and this improvement in family functioning mediated the relationship between treatment condition and family racial socialization processes. Research and clinical implications are discussed.
May It Please the Court: Law Students and Legal Research Instruction in Prison Law Libraries

According to the administrative office of the U.S. Courts, a significant part of the present docket of federal district courts consists of prisoner litigation. This category of litigation, composed largely of habeas corpus petitions, civil rights suits, and suits related to prison conditions, is often pressed by prisoners whose only legal assistance is the resources and materials available in their prison law library. Although prisoner litigation is an essential means of ensuring that our prisons and criminal justice systems operate within the confines of the U.S. Constitution, these often poorly researched and poorly written lawsuits also present special challenges to the federal courts tasked with processing them. This article explores how establishing programs that involve law students in teaching legal research in prison law libraries could help to both ameliorate the burdens that prisoner litigation places on the federal court system and improve prison law libraries’ ability to provide prisoners with...
Trade concentration, openness, and deviations from purchasing power parity

Abstract Economists have often explained deviations from PPP in terms of random relative price changes. While all countries are subject to such real shock, empirical studies indicate that PPP seems to hold closer for some countries than others. This paper emphasizes two major reasons why we should expect systematic differences across countries in deviations from PPP: (a) the concentration of trade and (b) openness. The more diversified trade, the less susceptible the country to random shocks affecting individual goods, so that shifts in the PPP ratio are lower. The more open the economy, the greater the weight of traded goods in the overall price indices, so that if exchange rates are determined by traded goods prices, yet empirical tests of PPP use national price indices, PPP should hold better in more open economies.
Strontium isotope variation and carbonate versus silicate weathering in rivers from across Alaska: Implications for provenance studies

Abstract The characterization of strontium (Sr) isotopic ( 87 Sr/ 86 Sr) variation in surface waters of Alaska (AK) has significant implications for provenance studies aiming to track movement patterns of animals. This study presents 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratios, concentrations of Sr, Ca, Mg, Na and K, and selected molar ratios (Sr/Na, Ca/Na, Mg/Na and Ca/Sr) from 61 rivers from across AK to characterize regional patterns in i) 87 Sr/ 86 Sr variation and ii) carbonate versus silicate weathering influencing 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratios. 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratios range from 0.70422–0.74041 ± 0.00009. Rivers north of the Denali Fault exhibit more radiogenic and variable 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratios (0.70763 to 0.74041) than rivers to the south (0.70422 to 0.70895), reflecting the tectonic growth of southern AK via accretion of relatively young mafic-rich exotic island arcs along North America's continental margin during the Mesozoic. Within interior AK an east–west gradient exists. Radiogenic 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratios (> 0.725) in east-central AK and relatively low ratios ( 0.711) than lowland rivers ( 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratios in high relief watersheds north of the Denali Fault and in watersheds of south-central AK. Elemental and 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratios indicate silicate weathering is important across AK, but is most influential in lowland basins north of the Denali Fault and in southwestern AK. This study illustrates the large Sr isotopic heterogeneity across AK on multiple spatial scales and provides necessary baseline information for provenance studies.
It's Good to Be the King Neurobiological Benefits of Higher Social Standing

Epidemiological and animal studies often find that higher social status is associated with better physical health outcomes, but these findings are by design correlational and lack mediational expla...
Estrogen receptor levels and occupancy in hepatic sinusoidal endothelial and Kupffer cells are enhanced by initiation with diethylnitrosamine and promotion with 17α-ethinylestradiol in rats

We report the presence of estrogen receptors (ER) in rat liver sinusoidal endothelial (SEC) and Kupffer cells (KC), which exhibited comparable saturation kinetics and receptor affinity (Kd) for 17a-estradiol, as characterized for the rat hepatocyte ER. The ER levels in both cell types were significantly decreased by ovariectomy, indicating a regulatory role of estrogens. Initiation of ovariectomize d rats with a single dose (200 mg/kg) of diethylnitros amine (DEN) or saline (S), followed by chronic exposure to 17aethinylestradiol (EE2), 90 u,g/kg/day for 30 weeks, packed in cholesterol (C) resulted in significant changes of ER levels in both the endothelial and Kupffer cells. The isolation of enriched liver SEC and KC populations by centrifugal elutriation allowed for the evaluation of chronic EE2 exposure and DEN-induced alterations on each cell type. The DEN-EE2 regime significantly enhanced y-glutamyltranspeptidase activity in SEC (5-fold) and KC (6.6fold) compared to the S/C treated animals. Nuclear ER levels were elevated 5.1-fold in the SEC and 6.5-fold in the KC, and both cell types exhibited significant increases in the proportion of occupied nuclear ER compared to the S/C derived cells, suggesting that exogenous estrogens could influence SEC and KC function through changes in ER levels and occupancy. ER occupancy was -50% of the total ER in SEC and KC from DEN-EE2 rats. Increases in ER and occupancy for SEC and KC were similar to those observed for hepatocytes. Cellular growth was clearly modified in DEN-EE 2 animals as indicated by a 4- to 10fold increase in the proportion of SEC, KC or hepatocytes in S-phase as shown by flow cytometry. However, unlike hepatocytes, the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) was not detected in SEC or KC using a monoclonal EGFR antibody. These findings suggest that the EGFR at 30 weeks is not involved in EE 2-mediated stimulation of mitogenesis in SEC and KC which may be different from hepatocytes. In summary, our studies demonstrate that SEC and KC contain significant amounts of high-affinity ER and that ER pathways may modulate some activities of the SEC and KC, but that ER-EGFR interactions may be different in these cells from hepatocytes.
Contrast agent-induced cardiac arrhythmias in rats

Although no known meaningful health risks have been reported following the use of microbubble ultrasound echogenic contrast imaging agents (MUECIA) in the United States, premature ventricular contractions have been documented in a report from the Netherlands and anecdotally noted in clinical use. Based on this information, we designed a study to characterize electrocardiogram conduction abnormalities in rat hearts exposed to pulsed ultrasound following injection of contrast agent. A focused 51-mm-diameter, 3.1-MHz, transducer that had in situ (at the heart) peak rarefactional and compressional pressures of 15.9 MPa and 36.1 MPa, respectively was used to expose each heart. ECGs were recorded digitally and continuously during seven experimental intervals: ECG baseline; exposure to pulsed ultrasound without intravenous MUECIA; discontinue ultrasound exposure and then inject intravenous MUECIA; expose to pulsed ultrasound with intravenous MUECIA; discontinue ultrasound exposure; exposure to pulsed ultrasound with intravenous MUECIA; and discontinue ultrasound exposure. Rats had no meaningful conduction abnormalities when exposed to ultrasound alone or contrast agent alone but developed premature atrial and ventricular complexes and polymorphic ventricular tachycardia when contrast agent was administered intravenously and the heart exposed to pulsed ultrasound. When ultrasound exposure was concluded, cardiac arrhythmias ceased but reoccurred when ultrasound exposure was resumed. Necrotic cardiac rhabdomyocytes were observed microscopically in myocardium of rats exposed to ultrasound following injection of contrast agent. Because cardiac arrhythmias were induced only when contrast agent interacted with ultrasound during exposure, the presence of myocardial lesions alone did not appear sufficient to serve as foci for ectopic electrical activity. These results suggest that microbubble contrast agent through its biomechanical interactions with pulsed ultrasound has the potential to induce conduction abnormalities leading to potentially hazardous cardiac arrhythmias.
Wetlands at your service: reducing impacts of agriculture at the watershed scale

In the Upper Midwestern region of the US, three ecosystem services (flood abatement, water quality improvement, and biodiversity support) declined when about 60% of the region's historical wetland area was drained, mostly for agriculture. Some of the lost services could potentially be regained through wetland restoration measures authorized in the 2002 Farm Bill. Because no single wetland can provide all ecosystem services indefinitely, ecologists can help to identify combinations of projects that will best restore ecosystem services within watersheds. “Strategic” restoration would use an adaptive management approach, targeting former wetlands with marginal crop production, and prioritizing the location, size, and type of wetland needed for a watershed to provide optimal levels of all three services. Given that the Farm Bill includes over $1 billion per year to conserve natural resources on agricultural lands, we are in an excellent position to increase the effectiveness of wetland restoration.
Characterization Of Glass-Ceramic Dielectric Thick Films With Cu Conductors for Multilayer Packages

Compatibility and characteristics of multilayer dielectric thick films with Cu interlayers are influenced by composition and processing parameters. In this work, cordierite based dielectric thick films on a Cu plated alumina substrate were investigated in terms of microstructure and property by changing composition of oxide additives, PbO and Cu2O for a given heating schedule. A nonstoichiometric cordierite composition, 2.4MgO 2Al2O3 5SiO2 was used with nucleating agents, B2O3 and P2O5. The dielectric ink consisting of cordierite glass frit and acrylic based binder vehicles was deposited on oxidized Cu layers via screen printing. The thick film layers were fired at 950°C for 30 min in N2 atmosphere. Dissolution of the oxidized Cu into the cordierite layer was observed. The addition of a small amount of Cu2O to the cordierite layer was effective in preventing the dissolution and enhancing thermal expansion. Crystallization was also influenced by the Cu2O addition. A lower activation energy value of 79 kcal/mol for crystallization, calculated from DTA runs, suggested that Cu20 could be used to form the cordierite glass-ceramic at a lower temperature. In the case of no additive, the activation energy for crystallization was 98 kcal/mol. The addition of Cu2O increased dielectric constant. For 3wt% PbO and 1wt% Cu2O, the dielectric constant and loss were determined at 1 MHz as 6.1 and 0.0046, respectively.
Automatic crossover frequency selection for multichannel home-theater applications

Given a multichannel loudspeaker system, the selection of the crossover frequency between the sub-woofer and the satellite speakers is important for accurate (i.e., distortion-free), reproduction of playback sound. Presently, many home-theater systems have selectable crossover frequencies which are either set by the consumer through listening tests. Alternatively, if the loudspeakers are industry certified, the crossover frequency is set at 80 Hz. A desirable feature is that, besides distortion-free sound output from the individual subwoofer and the satellite speakers, the combined sub-woofer and satellite room acoustical response should exhibit negligible variations around the selected crossover frequency. In this paper, we present an automatic crossover frequency selection algorithm based on an objective measure (viz., the spectral deviation measure) for multichannel home-theater applications that allows better control of the combined subwoofer-satellite response, thereby significantly improving audio quality.
Can a Retail Web Site Be Social

Abstract Avatars are lifelike characters created by technology. Research suggests that avatars can increase the persuasiveness of online sales channels. The authors investigate how the social cues inherent in avatars influence consumers' affect and shopping value. In Study 1, social cues induce perceptions of Web site socialness, leading to increased pleasure and arousal, both of which positively influence flow, hedonic and utilitarian value, and patronage intentions. Study 2 finds that social cue–induced arousal leads to increased pleasure only for consumers who are involved with the product category. Moreover, the influence of arousal on hedonic value is stronger for women, flow does not lead to pleasure for older consumers, and utilitarian value is less important for this group than for their younger counterparts. The findings suggest that there is a competitive advantage for online retailers that use social cues that provide consumers with enhanced perceptions of human connection and the formation of ...
Fate and effect of naphthenic acids on oil refinery activated sludge wastewater treatment systems

Naphthenic acids (NAs) are a complex group of alkyl-substituted acyclic, monocyclic and polycyclic carboxylic acids present in oil sands process waters, crude oil, refinery wastewater and petroleum products. Crude oil, desalter brine, influent, activated sludge mixed liquor and effluent refinery samples were received from six United States refineries. The total acid number (TAN) of the six crudes tested ranged from 0.12 to 1.5 mg KOH/g crude oil and correlated to the total NA concentration in the crudes. The total NA concentration in the desalter brine, influent, activated sludge mixed liquor and effluent samples ranged from 4.2 to 40.4, 4.5 to 16.6, 9.6 to 140.3 and 2.8 to 11.6 mg NA/L, respectively. The NAs in all wastewater streams accounted for less than 16% of the total COD, indicating that many other organic compounds are present and that NAs are a minor component in refinery wastewaters. Susceptibility tests showed that none of the activated sludge heterotrophic microcosms was completely inhibited by NAs up to 400 mg/L. Growth inhibition ranging from 10 to 59% was observed in all microcosms at and above 100 mg NA/L. NAs chronically-sorbed to activated sludge mixed liquor biomass and powdered activated carbon (PAC) were recalcitrant and persistent. More than 80% of the total NAs remained in the solid phase at the end of the 10-day desorption period (five successive desorption steps). Throughout a 90-day incubation period, the total NA concentration decreased by 33 and 51% in PAC-free and PAC-containing mixed liquor microcosms, respectively. The lower molecular weight fraction of NAs was preferentially degraded in both mixed liquors. The persistence of the residual, higher molecular weight NAs is likely a combination of molecular recalcitrance and decreased bioavailability when chronically-sorbed to the biomass and/or PAC.
Current Approaches to African Linguistics, Vol. 5 and Current Approaches to African Linguistics, Vol. 6

Current Approaches to African Linguistics (Vol. 5) Paul Newman Robert D. Botne eds. Publications in African Languages and Linguistics, 8. Dordrecht/ Providence: Foris Publications, 1989. 266 pp. $60.00 (paper) Current Approaches to African Linguistics (Vol. 6) lsabelle Haik Laurice Tuller eds. Publications in African Languages and Linguistics, 9. Dordrecht/ Providence: Foris Publications, 1989. 336 pp. $40.00 (paper)