cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Application of Wiener's theory to nonlinear analysis of respiratory gas exchange system

A non-parametric (i.e. data objective) method of modeling nonlinear dynamic behavior of respiratory gas exchange system during high-frequency ventilation (HFV) is presented. The non-parametric approach is based on Wiener's theory of system identification by use of broad-band random test inputs. The model has the form of nonlinear functional relation between input tracheal flow and output tracheal CO 2 tension. The motivation for this study is provided by the Importance of HFV as a form of artificial respiration. At present, none of the work done in modeling the phenomenon of gas exchange system is capable of explaining the nonlinear dynamic behavior of this system under HFV condition. The developed model increases our understanding of the respiratory gas exchange system, and should provide a more accurate approach to clinical assessments.
An interpolation method for measuring the Q-factor of a quasi-optical open resonator

A method is described by which the Q of a millimeter-wave open resonator may be determined from the measurement of response at a discrete set of points in the neighborhood of resonance. The method is illustrated by application to a set of experimental data.
Optimal arytenoid adduction based on quantitative real-time voice analysis

Hypothesis The optimal degree of arytenoid rotation for arytenoid adduction (AA) can be determined using quantitative real-time voice analysis.
Challenging the ideology of normal in schools

In this article, we build on Brantlinger's work to critique the binary of normal and abnormal applied in US schools that create inequities in education. Operating from a critical perspective, we dr...
Techniques and instrumentation for preparative immunosorbent separations

Abstract Studies of the physical and chemical characteristics of immunosorbents have allowed operational improvements to be made in their application to preparative separation of pure antigens and monospecific antibodies. The loss of immunochemical reactivity with increasing protein substitution and the limitations imposed by the porous nature of many supports, have been significantly overcome by improved techniques and operational protocols. The development and operation of dedicated immuno-affinity chromatographic systems designed for routine preparative applications are described. A new automatic repetitive chromatography system, generally applicable to a wide spectrum of routine biochemical preparative separations, is presented for the first time.
Function spaces and the Mosco topology

Let X and Y be Banach spaces and let C(X, Y) be the functions from X to Y continuous with respect to the weak topology on X and the strong topology on Y. By the Mosco topology τM on C(X, Y) we mean the supremum of the Fell topologies determined by the weak and strong topologies on X × Y, where functions are identified with their graphs. The function space is Hausdorff if and only if both X and Y are reflexive. Moreover, τM coincides with the stronger compact-open topology on C(X, Y) provided X is reflexive and Y is finite dimensional. We also show convergence in either sense is properly weaker than continuous convergence, even for continuous linear functionals, whenever X is infinite dimensional. For real-valued weakly continuous functions, τM is the supremum of the Mosco epitopology and the Mosco hypotopology if and only if X is reflexive.
Cognitive representations of peer relationships: linkages with discrete social cognition and social behavior

Two aspects of young children’s cognitive representations of peer relationships–peer affiliative motivation and feelings and beliefs about the self and peers–were assessed among a sample of 75 children (37 girls), who ranged in age from 32 to 76 months (M = 58.2 months). Measures of three aspects of discrete social cognition, encoding of social cues, hostile attributions and social strategy generation were also obtained and the children’s teachers provided ratings of the children’s behavior with peers. Both measures of cognitive representations were significantly associated with the quality of social strategy generation, but not the other measures of discrete social cognition. Measures of cognitive representations were also associated with ratings of competent, prosocial, withdrawn and aggressive behavior. Findings support the hypothesis that social strategy generation mediates associations between both measures of cognitive representations and ratings of children’s withdrawn behavior, but mediational mod...
NMR Kinetics of the SN2 Reaction between BuBr and I–: An Introductory Organic Chemistry Laboratory Exercise

A simple organic chemistry experiment is described that investigates the kinetics of the reaction between 1-bromobutane (BuBr) and iodide (I–) as followed by observing the disappearance of BuBr and the appearance of 1-iodobutane (BuI) using 1H NMR spectroscopy. In small groups of three to four, students acquire data to examine the concentration-dependence of both the organic substrate and the nucleophile under pseudo-first-order and second-order conditions. After data processing, students analyze three data sets (one second-order experiment, and two first-order experiments with different concentrations of iodide) using an electronic spreadsheet. Students discuss the experimentally determined rate law, comparing it to that predicted for this SN2 reaction.
An economical approach to modeling speech recognition accuracy

Abstract Accuracy of speech recognizer decisions is an important criterion for maintaining both system effectiveness and user satisfaction. A central-composite design methodology is recommended as an economical means to develop empirical prediction equations for speech recognizer performance incorporating a number of influential factors. Factors manipulated in the central-composite design included number of training passes, reject threshold, difference score, and size of the active vocabulary. The factorial combination of two noncontinuous variables, sex of the speaker and inter-word confusability, was also investigated by replicating the central-composite design to create four sets of data. Standard least-squares multiple regression analysis was used to develop the four sets of prediction equations, each of which accounted for at least 50% of the variance in recognizer performance. A cross-validation study revealed that shrinkage was not excessive. Subsequently, these empirical models were incorporated into an interactive design tooi for a dialogue author where the percentage of correct recognition is automatically optimized when the dialogue author enters the size of the vocabulary to be used or both the vocabulary size and desired number of training passes. The design tooi can also be used to make predictions anywhere within the response surface. Use of these efficient data collection procedures along with the interactive design tooi should greatly assist the dialogue author in predicting the impact of various language, task, environmental, algorithmic, human, and performance evaluation factors on speech recognition accuracy.
Nitric oxide is a downstream mediator of agrin-induced acetylcholine receptor aggregation.

Abstract The synaptic basal lamina protein, agrin, is required for the formation of the neuromuscular junction. Agrin signals through a muscle-specific receptor tyrosine kinase (MuSK) initiating a cascade of events that lead to the aggregation of acetylcholine receptors (AChR) at the postsynaptic site. Another important synaptic signalling molecule is nitric oxide (NO), which is produced by the enzyme, nitric oxide synthase (NOS). We investigated the interaction between the agrin signalling cascade and the NO signalling cascade by treating cultured myotubes with agrin, NOS inhibitors, and NO donors. NOS inhibitors prevented agrin induced AChR aggregation and phosphorylation of the AChR β subunit. Furthermore, NO donors induced AChR aggregation in the absence of agrin, as well as phosphorylation of the AChR β subunit. These results demonstrate a role for NO as a downstream mediator of agrin induced AChR aggregation and AChR β subunit phosphorylation at the neuromuscular junction.
Interpolation search for non-independent data

We define a deterministic metric of "well-behaved data" that enables searching along the lines of interpolation search. Specifically, define Δ to be the ratio of distances between the farthest and nearest pair of adjacent elements. We develop a data structure that stores a dynamic set of n integers subject to insertions, deletions, and predecessor/successor queries in O(lg Δ) time per operation. This result generalizes interpolation search and interpolation search trees smoothly to nonrandom (in particular, non-independent) input data. In this sense, we capture the amount of "pseudorandomness" required for effective interpolation search.
Measurements of Harmonics Generated by an Interactive Wind/Photovoltaic Hybrid Power System

Abstract Soaring oil prices have recently returned the focus on solar/wind energy as viable alternative sources. Thus, dispersed generation is likely to become a reality in the near future. However, a proliferation of grid-connected small-scale wind turbines and photovoltaic systems will undoubtedly raise power quality issues for utility companies. In this article, harmonics generated by a utility inter-tied 4-kW residential hybrid wind/photovoltaic system (WPS) are investigated. It is to determine to what extent the immediate residential loads attached to the WPS and the overall power distribution system voltage will be affected. Wave shape, trends, and harmonics measurements performed on inputs and output terminals of the system are presented.
A New Method of Relating Size of Spawning Gravel to Salmonid Embryo Survival

Abstract A new method for describing the size composition of salmonid spawning gravel was developed. For gravel samples from Idaho and Washington streams, cumulative distributions of particle sizes for gravel smaller than 25.4 mm were consistently plotted as straight lines on log-probability paper. Because of the lognormal distribution of the particle sizes in this range, the size composition of material smaller than 25.4 mm was closely approximated by two points on a regression of cumulative particle size distribution. The two size classes that best reflected the composition of the spawning gravel size were the percentage of the substrate smaller than 9.50 ram and the percentage smaller than 0.85 mm. Salmonid embryo survival was related to these two groups of particle size in laboratory tests. In these tests, 90-93% of the variability in embryo survival was correlated with changes in substrate size composition. Equations were developed to describe the effect of spawning gravel size composition on chinook...
Reliable on-line monitoring of ammonium ion in a bioreactor.

To analyze continuously a stream from a bioreactor for the concentration of ammonium ion, the broth is adjusted to high pH and conveyed to a small mixing chamber containing an ammonia electrode. The system has a delay of only 1 minute and a time constant for response of approximately 1 minute. Fouling and leaching of the electrode membrane are prevented by a small, sealed air gap between the electrode and the sample stream; membrane life is at least five days.
Lorazepam Dose-dependently Decreases Risk-taking Related Activation in Limbic Areas

Rationale Several studies have examined the role of different neurotransmitter systems in modulating risk-taking behavior.
Life history and host specificity of Urophora sirunaseva (Hering) (Dipt., Tephritidae), a candidate for biological control of yellow starthistle, with remarks on the host plant

Yellow starthistle (YST) is an annual (occasionally biennial) weed that is a major problem in many parts of the USA. Seeds of YST collected in various locations in the USA and Europe were grown in Greece under the same conditions. No significant morphological differences could be found among the plants, and all were annuals. Larvae of the southern European picture-winged fly, Urophora sirunaseva (Hering) (Dipt., Tephritidae), a species introduced and established in the western USA as a biological control agent, feed only in the seedheads of YST. Urophora sirunaseva is bivoltine and overwinters as mature larvae in seedheads. Adults of the overwintered generation emerged from late April to late May, and the F-1 generation, from mid June to mid July. Adults copulated frequently throughout their lives and oviposition began within four to six days after emergence of the females. Females lived up to 36 days and each laid up to 270 eggs. Eggs were deposited between single florettes in young buds, and hatched within nine to ten days. The development of the immature stages (egg to adult) required 25–26 days under semi-natural conditions. Larval and pupal mortality was about 50 %. The rate of infestation of YST seedheads was very patchy in several populations of YST. Zusammenfassung Zur Biologie und Wirtsspezifitat von Urophora sirunaseva (Hering) (Dipt., Tephritidae), einem moglichen Kandidaten zur biologischen Bekampfung von gelben Sterndisteln, mit Bemerkungen uber die Wirtspflanze Centaurea solstitialis ist ein-, gelegentlich zweijahriges Unkraut. Die Pflanze wurde von Eurasien nach Nordamerika verschleppt und verursacht dort enorme Probleme. Samen von verschiedenen Lokalitaten in den USA und in Europa wurden unter gleichen Bedingungen in Griechenland angesat. Dort entwickelten sich alle Pflanzen als Einjahrige. Urophora sirunaseva (Dipt., Tephritidae) ist monophag und entwickelt sich nur in C. solstitialis. Die Art hat zwei Generationen und uberwintert als erwachsene Larven in den Blutenkopfen. Die Adulten schlupfen vom spaten April bis spaten Mai, und die F1-Generation schlupft von Mitte Juni bis Mitte Juli. Die Adulten kopulieren sehr oft bis zum Ende ihres Lebens. Die Eiablage beginnt 4–6 Tage nach dem Schlupfen. Die Weibchen lebten im Experiment bis zu 36 Tagen und legten bis 270 Eier pro Weibchen. Die Eier wurden zwischen den Rohrenbluten der jungen Knospen abgelegt und schlupften nach 9–10 Tagen. Die Entwicklung vom Ei bis zum Adultenstadium dauerte 25–26 Tage. Die Larven- und Puppenmortalitat betrug 42–76 Prozent. Die Art wurde fur die biologische Bekampfung von C. solstitialis in den USA (Kalifornia, Idaho, und Washington) angesiedelt.
Thermal and photodesorption from a molecular surface: Ammonia on Ag2.

The one-to-one complex A${\mathrm{g}}_{2}$N${\mathrm{H}}_{3}$ was prepared by titrating disilver with ammonia. Its photodissociation along ground and excited state potential surfaces was studied. Binding energies and the ammonia umbrella frequency were determined to be in good accord with precise electronic structure calculations showing that the complex is linear. Complexes of this type are important members of a series that extend to infinite surfaces. They allow the dynamics of particular adsorbate excitations to be isolated. Here, an excitation at 3 eV involving the metal-metal and the chemisorption bond is revealed.
Functional dissection of the glucose signaling pathways that regulate the yeast glucose transporter gene (HXT) repressor Rgt1

The yeast Rgt1 repressor is a bifunctional protein that acts as a transcriptional repressor and activator. Under glucose-limited conditions, Rgt1 induces transcriptional repression by forming a repressive complex with its corepressors Mth1 and Std1. Here, we show that Rgt1 is converted from a transcriptional repressor into an activator under high glucose conditions and this occurs through two independent but consecutive events mediated by two glucose signaling pathways: (1) disruption of the repressive complex by the Rgt2/Snf3 pathway; (2) phosphorylation of Rgt1 by the cAMP-dependent protein kinase (cAMP-PKA) pathway. Rgt1 is phosphorylated by PKA at four serine residues within its amino-terminal region, but this does not occur until the repressive complex is disrupted. While phosphorylation of any one of these sites is sufficient to enable Rgt1 to induce transcriptional activation, phosphorylation of all the sites results in the release of Rgt1 from DNA. We discuss how the bifunctional properties of Rgt1 are regulated through differential phosphorylation.
Blooms of the toxic dinoflagellate Alexandrium fundyense in the western Gulf of Maine in 1993 and 1994 : A comparative modeling study

Blooms of the toxic dinoflagellate Alexandrium fundyense commonly occur in the western Gulf of Maine but the amount of toxin observed in coastal shellfish is highly variable. In this study, a coupled physical–biological model is used to investigate the dynamics underlying the observed A. fundyense abundance and shellfish toxicity in 1993 (a high toxicity year) and 1994 (low toxicity year). The physical model simulates the spring circulation, while the biological model estimates the germination and population dynamics of A. fundyense based on laboratory and field data. The model captures the large-scale aspects of the initiation and development of A. fundyense blooms during both years, but small-scale patchiness and the dynamics of bloom termination remain problematic. In both cases, the germination of resting cysts accounts for the magnitude of A. fundyense populations early in the spring. Simulations with low net A. fundyense growth rates capture the mean observed concentration during the bloom peak, which is of similar magnitude during both years. There is little evidence that large-scale changes in biological dynamics between 1993 and 1994 were a primary driver of the differences in shellfish toxicity. Results instead suggest that the persistent southwesterly flow of the western Maine Coastal Current led to A. fundyense populations of similar alongshore extent by late May of both years. This period coincides with peak cell abundance in the region. Variations in wind forcing (downwelling favorable in 1993, upwelling favorable in 1994) and subsequent cell transport (inshore in 1993, offshore in 1994) in early June then provides a plausible explanation for the dramatic mid-June differences in shellfish toxicity throughout the western Gulf of Maine.
Event Generation from Effective Field Theory

A procedure is developed for using soft collinear effective theory (SCET) to generate fully exclusive events, which can then be compared to data from collider experiments. We show that SCET smoothly interpolates between QCD for hard emissions, and the parton shower for soft emissions, while resumming all large logarithms. In SCET, logarithms are resummed using the renormalization group, instead of classical Sudakov factors, so subleading logarithms can be resummed as well. In addition, all loop effects of QCD can be reproduced in SCET, which allows the effective theory to incorporate next-to-leading and higher-order effects. We also show through SCET that in the soft/collinear limit, successive branchings factorize, a fact which is essential to parton showers, and that the splitting functions of QCD are reproduced. Finally, combining these results, we present an example of an algorithm that incorporates the SCET results into an event generator which is systematically improvable.
Effects of cooperative incentives and heterogeneous arrangement on achievement and interaction of cooperative learning groups in a college life science course

The purpose of this study was to examine the importance of cooperative incentives and heterogeneous grouping as elements of cooperative learning in a college life science course. Cooperative learning may be defined as a classroom learning environment in which students work together in heterogeneous groups toward completion of some task. Cooperative incentive structures provide some type of group reward based on group products or individual learning. In heterogeneous grouping, students are arranged in order to maximize variety within groups. A 2 × 2 design was utilized in this study. The independent variables considered included (a) use of cooperative incentives in learning groups, and (b) use of heterogeneous grouping in cooperative learning groups. Dependent variables for all treatment groups were scores from a multiple-choice instrument developed for an earlier, related study, along with direct observational data on frequency of cooperative interactions. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used as the data analysis procedure for the achievement portion of the study, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used for analysis of the cooperative interaction portion of the study. No significant differences were found between the treatment groups.
Microkinetics of crystallization in poly(ethylene terephthalate)

The lamellar growth kinetics and lamellar thickness of poly(ethylene terephthalate) crystallized from the glassy state have been determined as a function of crystallization temperature. Values of end and side surface free energies have been estimated as well as the residual lamellar thickness. Analyses carried out using secondary nucleation approaches indicate that the width of a critical nucleus is comparable to the effective substrate length for multiple nucleation in this and other slowly crystallizing polymers at high supercoolings. A “universal” critical value of T/T2ΔT below which the strip completion process ceases was found to exist. All crystallization must, therefore, occur through the deposition of critical nuclei. Models are proposed for this process which appear to be consistent with both neutron scattering and infrared experiments on quenched polyethylenes. Comparison of crystallization rates, expressed as “jump” rates, with relaxation frequencies suggest that in order for crystallization to occur at any given temperature the relaxation frequency must be at least two decades faster than the crystal “jump” rate.
Two dimensional nested arrays on lattices

In this paper, we develop the theory of a new class of two dimensional arrays with sensors on lattice(s) which can be used to construct a virtual array of much larger size through passive processing. This structure is obtained by systematically nesting two arrays, one with sensors suitably placed on a sparse lattice and the other on an appropriately chosen dense lattice. The difference co-array of such an array with M and N elements respectively on the two lattices, is proved to be a larger two dimensional array with O(MN) sensors present contiguously (without holes) on the dense lattice. It will be shown that there is complete freedom to choose the sparse and dense arrays as long as they are related by an integer matrix (which can also be arbitrarily chosen). To exploit the increased degrees of freedom offered by the array for two dimensional DOA estimation of more sources than sensors, a novel algorithm based on the concept of two dimensional spatial smoothing is also proposed. The validity of the proposed methods is verified through numerical examples.
Seeking the Roots of Talent: An Interview with Howard Gardner.

What do we know about the origins of talent and its relationship to the artistic products of children? While a number of psychologists, philosophers, educators, and artists have taken diverse paths...
Picturing a People: George Johnston, Tlingit Photographer

Picturing. People: George Johnston, Tlingit Photographer. 1997. 50 minutes. video directed by Carol Geddes and produced by Sally Bochner and George Hargrove. For more information contact the National Film Board of Canada, P.O. Box 6100, Station Centre-Ville, Montreal, Quebec H3C 3H5.
How Does Plato’s Exercise Work?

I analyse the pros ta alla/pros heauto distinction in Plato’s Parmenides as a contrast between ordinary predication (corresponding to an individual’s display of a feature or, more technically, instantiation) and tree predication (based on a nature X being involved in a nature Y). I engage with my critics and argue that this interpretation vindicates Plato’s methodological remarks and maximizes his argumentative success. My interpretation shows how the Parmenides bridges the gap between Plato’s Middle Dialogues and the outstanding technical developments of the Late Dialogues.
Noise performance of time stretch system with distributed and discrete amplifiers

We analyzed the noise performance of time stretched analog to digital converter with both lumped and distributed amplification cases. We show that distributed amplification provides up to 16dB higher SNR corresponding to ∼2.5 bit higher resolution.
Using dynamic analysis to animate articulated bodies such as humans and robots

A method of animating articulated (linked) bodies such as humans, animals and robots using dynamic analysis is presented. Dynamic analysis predicts motion by analyzing the effect of forces and torques on mass; this is different than the usual kinematic method of specifying motion, where positions, velocities, and accelerations are given without considering the forces and torques producing motion. It is difficult to kinematically specify realistic motion, particularly in cases where the body is moving fast, in complex patterns, or with great freedom. In such cases, animation based on dynamic analysis, though more expensive, may be preferable. Animation using dynamic analysis is also useful in the design and control of robots and other mechanical manipulators, and for analyzing the movement of humans and animals in biomechanics and sports.
New opportunities in ecological sensing using wireless sensor networks

Measuring environmental variables at appropriate temporal and spatial scales remains an important challenge in ecological research. New developments in wireless sensors and sensor networks will free ecologists from a wired world and revolutionize our ability to study ecological systems at relevant scales. In addition, sensor networks can analyze and manipulate the data they collect, thereby moving data processing from the end user to the sensor network itself. Such embedded processing will allow sensor networks to perform data analysis procedures, identify outlier data, alter sampling regimes, and ultimately control experimental infrastructure. We illustrate this capability using a wireless sensor network, the Sensor Web, in a study of microclimate variation under shrubs in the Chihuahuan Desert. Using Sensor Web data, we propose simple analytical protocols for assessing data quality “on-the-fly” that can be programmed into sensor networks. The ecological community can influence the evolution of environmental sensor networks by working across disciplines to infuse new ideas into sensor network development.
Sex Roles as Variables in the Interpretation of Morbidity Data: a Methodological Critique

Data on sex differences in morbidity are summarized: explanations are sought in the methods of data collection. It is shown that sex differences in morbidity are affected by data collection processes. It is suggested that these effects are a function of variation in the social norms that govern the behaviour of men and women when confronted with physical discomfort, health interviews and medical practitioners.
Airborne Doppler Radar and Sounding Analysis of an Oceanic Cold Front

Abstract An analysis of a cold front over the eastern Atlantic Ocean based on airborne Doppler wind syntheses and dropsonde data is presented. The focus and unique aspect of this study is a segment of the front that was near the center of the cyclone. The dual-Doppler wind synthesis of the frontal zone combined with an average dropsonde spacing of ∼30 km covers a total distance of >450 km in the cross-frontal direction. The finescale resolution and areal coverage of the dataset are believed to be unprecedented. The cold front was characterized by a distinct wind shift and a strong horizontal temperature gradient. The latter was most intense aloft and not at the surface, in contrast to the classical paradigm of surface cold fronts. The shear of the alongfront component of the wind was relatively uniform as a function of height within the frontal zone. This observation is contrary to studies suggesting that frontal zones decrease in intensity above the surface. The surface convergence within the frontal zon...
Reactive Oxygen Species (Ros-Induced) Ros Release: A New Phenomenon Accompanying Induction of the Mitochondrial Permeability Transition in Cardiac Myocytes

We sought to understand the relationship between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT) in cardiac myocytes based on the observation of increased ROS production at sites of spontaneously deenergized mitochondria. We devised a new model enabling incremental ROS accumulation in individual mitochondria in isolated cardiac myocytes via photoactivation of tetramethylrhodamine derivatives, which also served to report the mitochondrial transmembrane potential, ΔΨ. This ROS accumulation reproducibly triggered abrupt (and sometimes reversible) mitochondrial depolarization. This phenomenon was ascribed to MPT induction because (a) bongkrekic acid prevented it and (b) mitochondria became permeable for calcein (∼620 daltons) concurrently with depolarization. These photodynamically produced “triggering” ROS caused the MPT induction, as the ROS scavenger Trolox prevented it. The time required for triggering ROS to induce the MPT was dependent on intrinsic cellular ROS-scavenging redox mechanisms, particularly glutathione. MPT induction caused by triggering ROS coincided with a burst of mitochondrial ROS generation, as measured by dichlorofluorescein fluorescence, which we have termed mitochondrial “ROS-induced ROS release” (RIRR). This MPT induction/RIRR phenomenon in cardiac myocytes often occurred synchronously and reversibly among long chains of adjacent mitochondria demonstrating apparent cooperativity. The observed link between MPT and RIRR could be a fundamental phenomenon in mitochondrial and cell biology.
Assessment of computer science learning in a scratch-based outreach program

Many institutions have created and deployed outreach programs for middle school students with the goal of increasing the number and diversity of students who later pursue careers in computer science. While these programs have been shown to increase interest in computer science, there has been less work on showing whether participants learn computer science content.We address two questions, one specific, and the other more general: (1) "What computer science did our middle school students learn in our interdisciplinary two-week summer camp?" (2) "How can computer science concepts be assessed in the context of Scratch-based outreach programs"? We address both questions by presenting the design of our summer camp, an overview of our curriculum, our assessment methodology, and our assessment results.Though the sample size is not statistically significant, the results show that a two-week, interdisciplinary, non-academic summer camp can be effective not only for engaging students, but also for imparting CS content. In just two weeks, with a curriculum not entirely focused on computer science, students displayed competence with event-driven programming, initialization of state, message passing, and say/sound synchronization. We have employed assessment methodologies that avoid written exams, an approach both outreach and classroom-based programs may find useful.
Performance enhancement at the cost of potential brain plasticity: neural ramifications of nootropic drugs in the healthy developing brain

Cognitive enhancement is perhaps one of the most intriguing and controversial topics in neuroscience today. Currently, the main classes of drugs used as potential cognitive enhancers include psychostimulants (methylphenidate, amphetamine), but wakefulness-promoting agents (modafinil) and glutamate activators (ampakine) are also frequently used. Pharmacologically, substances that enhance the components of the memory/learning circuits - dopamine, glutamate (neuronal excitation), and/or norepinephrine - stand to improve brain function in healthy individuals beyond their baseline functioning. In particular, non-medical use of prescription stimulants such as methylphenidate and illicit use of psychostimulants for cognitive enhancement have seen a recent rise among teens and young adults in schools and college campuses. However, this enhancement likely comes with a neuronal, as well as ethical, cost. Altering glutamate function via the use of psychostimulants may impair behavioral flexibility, leading to the development and/or potentiation of addictive behaviors. Furthermore, dopamine and norepinephrine do not display linear effects; instead, their modulation of cognitive and neuronal function maps on an inverted-U curve. Healthy individuals run the risk of pushing themselves beyond optimal levels into hyperdopaminergic and hypernoradrenergic states, thus vitiating the very behaviors they are striving to improve. Finally, recent studies have begun to highlight potential damaging effects of stimulant exposure in healthy juveniles. This review explains how the main classes of cognitive enhancing drugs affect the learning and memory circuits, and highlights the potential risks and concerns in healthy individuals, particularly juveniles and adolescents. We emphasize the performance enhancement at the potential cost of brain plasticity that is associated with the neural ramifications of nootropic drugs in the healthy developing brain.
Highly Potent and Specific GSK‐3β Inhibitors That Block Tau Phosphorylation and Decrease α‐Synuclein Protein Expression in a Cellular Model of Parkinson's Disease

Research by Klein and co-workers suggests that the inhibition of GSK-3beta by small molecules may offer an important strategy in the treatment of a number of central nervous system (CNS) disorders including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and bipolar disorders. Based on results from kinase-screening assays that identified a staurosporine analogue as a modest inhibitor of GSK-3beta, a series of 3-indolyl-4-indazolylmaleimides was prepared for study in both enzymatic and cell-based assays. Most strikingly, whereas we identified ligands having poor to high potency for GSK-3beta inhibition, only ligands with a Ki value of less than 8 nM, namely maleimides 18 and 22, were found to inhibit Tau phosphorylation at a GSK-3beta-specific site (Ser 396/404). Accordingly, maleimides 18 and 22 may protect neuronal cells against cell death by decreasing the level of alpha-Syn protein expression. We conclude that the GSK-3beta inhibitors described herein offer promise in defending cells against MPP+-induced neurotoxicity and that such compounds will be valuable to explore in animal models of Parkinson's disease as well as in other Tau-related neurodegenerative disease states.
WHAT IS MEANING? FUNDAMENTALS OF FORMAL SEMANTICS

What is Meaning? Fundamentals of Formal Semantics. Paul Portner. Oxford: Blackwell, 2005. Pp. x + 235. $29.95 paper.Another textbook on formal semantics? Before you reach for the Tylenol, relax; this is a textbook with a twist: It is an informal textbook on formal semantics. Portner's book is actually a very ambitious endeavor because it sets out to teach the basics of the scientific study of meaning in an accessible and user-friendly way. Readers of SSLA who have struggled with formal semantics as undergraduates, in graduate school, or both will appreciate the challenge. I believe that Portner is mostly successful in his endeavor. As I will explain, he is almost too successful; as a result, the apparent raison d'etre of the book is defeated, to an extent. In what follows, I will qualify this claim.
Oncogenic Serine-Threonine Kinase Receptor-Associated Protein Modulates the Function of Ewing Sarcoma Protein through a Novel Mechanism

Although much is known about the oncogenic functions of chimeric Ewing sarcoma (EWS) fusion proteins that result from chromosomal translocations, the cellular role of the normal EWS protein is not well characterized. We have previously identified a WD domain-containing protein, serine-threonine kinase receptor-associated protein (STRAP), which inhibits transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) signaling through interaction with receptors and Smad7 and promotes growth and enhances tumorigenicity. Here, we report the interaction between STRAP and EWS using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization, time-of-flight and tandem mass spectrometry. Although STRAP is localized in both cytoplasm and nucleus, nuclear STRAP colocalizes and associates specifically with EWS in the nucleus through its NH(2) and COOH termini. We have found that normal EWS protein is up-regulated in human cancers, which correlates with the up-regulation of STRAP in 71% of colorectal cancers and 54% of lung cancers, suggesting a cooperative role of these two proteins in human cancers. TGF-beta has no effect on STRAP and EWS interaction. However, EWS, like STRAP, attenuates TGF-beta-dependent transcription. STRAP inhibits EWS-dependent p300-mediated transactivation of EWS target genes, such as ApoCIII and c-fos, in a TGF-beta-independent manner. Interestingly, we have shown that STRAP blocks the interaction between EWS and p300, whereas the complex formation between STRAP and EWS is not affected by p300. These results suggest that STRAP inhibits the transactivation function of EWS by displacing p300 from the functional transcriptional complex. Thus, this study provides a novel TGF-beta-independent function of STRAP and describes a mechanism by which STRAP regulates the function of oncogenic EWS protein.
Large-scale sequencing and the natural history of model human RNA viruses

RNA virus exploration within the field of medical virology has greatly benefited from technological developments in genomics, deepening our understanding of viral dynamics and emergence. Large-scale first-generation technology sequencing projects have expedited molecular epidemiology studies at an unprecedented scale for two pathogenic RNA viruses chosen as models: influenza A virus and dengue. Next-generation sequencing approaches are now leading to a more in-depth analysis of virus genetic diversity, which is greater for RNA than DNA viruses because of high replication rates and the absence of proofreading activity of the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase. In the field of virus discovery, technological advancements and metagenomic approaches are expanding the catalogs of novel viruses by facilitating our probing into the RNA virus world.
Regional Distribution of Lung Perfusion and Ventilation at Rest and During Steady-State Exercise After Unilateral Lung Transplantation

Cardiopulmonary exercise testing has previously demonstrated a reduced maximum oxygen uptake and anaerobic threshold, as well as abnormal wasted ventilation fraction and gas exchange after unilateral lung transplantation. To further explain the mechanisms of these abnormalities, we assessed the regional distribution of pulmonary blood flow and ventilation at rest and during steady-state exercise in nine recipients of unilateral lung transplants. Krypton-81 ( 81m Kr) aerosol and technetium-99m ( 99m Tc) were utilized to assess lung ventilation (V) and perfusion (Q), respectively. The digitalized images were trisected to analyze apical, mid-, and basilar lung perfusion and ventilation in both the transplanted and native lung, both at rest and steady-state upright exercise. Results were compared with previously reported data obtained in normal subjects in our laboratory using the identical technique. At rest, 75±13 percent of perfusion was directed to the transplanted lung; however, the corresponding fractional ventilation was only 67±14 percent. During exercise, there was no significant change in fractional perfusion or ventilation. Resting apical per fusion in the transplanted lung was higher than normal in four patients and comparable to normal in five patients. In contrast to the augmentation of apical perfusion observed in normal subjects during upright exercise, none of our patients increased the regional perfusion to the apices during exercise in either transplanted or native lungs. These unexpected responses suggest either more maximal allograft apical recruitment at rest due to the increased allograft perfusion or an abnormality in the apical pulmonary vasculature after transplantation. Furthermore, the relative mismatch in ventilation and perfusion in transplanted and native lungs suggests regions of high V/Q in the native, and low V/Q in the transplanted lung. This mismatch is most pronounced in recipients of single lung transplants for pulmonary vascular disease.
Are women different from men in ways that matter? Maybe

In thi sissu eo fthe Journal ,Toumpouli san dcolleagues 1 repor tth eresult sof their study comparing 2598 men with 1162 women in terms of the demographic and perioperative factors that predict long-term (5-year) postoperative survival after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). The presentation of data is unusual in its emphasis on the number of independent predictors in one gender versus the other. Although there were more predictors in men, twice as many men as women were studied, making the statistical tests performed on the men’s data more powerful than those performed on the women’s data. Therefore, the reported gender differences in the absolute number of predictors may be merely a statistical artifact. Also, cause of death was not captured, so it is possible that many of the reported deaths were not related to cardiovascular disease. Whether female gender is a risk factor for short- or long-term mortality after cardia csurger yi sa subjec to fongoin gdebate .I na recen tstud yo f15,44 0patients, 2 female gender independently predicted higher in-hospital mortality even when all comorbidities were taken into account (eg, age, emergency or urgent status, associated valvular surgery, prior cardiac surgery, congestive heart failure, history of cerebrovascular accident, renal insufficiency). In contrast, another large study used propensity-modeling techniques to show that female gender was not associated with increase din-hospita lmortalit yi nwell-matche dpatients. 3 Studies of the influence of gender on long-term mortality after cardiac surgery have also yielded results that are subject to interpretation. In one such study, mortality was significantly higher in women than in men 15 years after CABG, but this sex difference was largely attributable to the women’s higher in-hospital mortality. 4 Anothe rstud ynote dtha tunadjuste dmortalit ywa ssignificantl yhighe rin women than in men at 30 days and at 2 years after CABG; however, once the investigators adjusted for baseline comorbid disease, there were no sex-related difference sa t2 years. 5 Furthermore ,i nsevera lrecen tstudies ,adjustmen tfor women’s greater number of baseline comorbidities yielded the surprising result that 5-yea rpost-CAB Gsurviva lwa sactuall ybette ri nwome ntha ni nmen. 6-8
Random tropospheric effects in command guidance by multilateration and interferometry

Statistical models are developed for the random spatial variations in refractivity in the troposphere, and are used to derive spatial correlation functions for the errors in range measurement and interferometer angle measurement. These are then used to analyze the relative errors between two tracked targets, for application to command-guided intercept problems. It is shown that multilateration, using range measurements, yields much smaller relative errors than does the interferometer approach. >
How random is a random vector

Abstract Over 80 years ago Samuel Wilks proposed that the “generalized variance” of a random vector is the determinant of its covariance matrix. To date, the notion and use of the generalized variance is confined only to very specific niches in statistics. In this paper we establish that the “Wilks standard deviation” –the square root of the generalized variance–is indeed the standard deviation of a random vector. We further establish that the “uncorrelation index” –a derivative of the Wilks standard deviation–is a measure of the overall correlation between the components of a random vector. Both the Wilks standard deviation and the uncorrelation index are, respectively, special cases of two general notions that we introduce: “randomness measures” and “independence indices” of random vectors. In turn, these general notions give rise to “randomness diagrams”—tangible planar visualizations that answer the question: How random is a random vector? The notion of “independence indices” yields a novel measure of correlation for Levy laws. In general, the concepts and results presented in this paper are applicable to any field of science and engineering with random-vectors empirical data.
Chapter 7 Staging of the Cell Cycle with Time-Lapse Photography

Publisher Summary This chapter describes the use of cinephotomicrography to delineate the sequence of morphologic and metabolic changes occurring during interphase and division. The experimental steps are outlined in some instances, while in others, applications with different cell types are cited as a guide to the procedures used. Time-lapse photomicrography stages cells during the cell cycle without disturbing cellular metabolism. Although the number of cells examined is small, a valuable comparison can be made with large populations of cells synchronized artificially by physical or chemical treatment. The difficulties of tracing rapidly growing cells or the tedium of direct observation over long periods is reduced. Studies of protein synthesis using cinephotomicrography are based on methods similar to those described for the RNA experiments. Labeled amino acids are incorporated into protein that appears throughout the cell and nuclear label is generally not clearly separated from cytoplasmic label.
Melanocytic Nevus with Phenotypic Heterogeneity: Combined Melanocytic Nevus and Variants

The term melanocytic nevus with phenotypic heterogeneity (MNPH), as originally introduced in the first edition of this monograph, connotes both qualitatively and quantitatively the wide range of neurocristic phenotypic differentiation which may be observed in melanocytic neoplasms [1]. Thus, MNPH is a generic term used to describe two or more distinct nevus cellular elements, or lines of neural crest differentiation, in a single melanocytic nevus, as, e.g., MNPH with components of compound dysplastic nevus and common blue nevus or MNPH with congenital-nevus component and sclerosing spindle cell component with Schwannian differentiation.
The Geriatric Patient

The fastest growing segment of the population in the United States is that composed of persons over the age of 65. Older adults are remaining increasingly active, leading to more injuries in this age group. These injuries are mostly due to falls and motor vehicle collisions. Despite facing an increased risk of mortality compared to their younger peers, when they are treated in the proper setting with age-specific management protocols, good outcomes can be achieved. Principles of care for geriatric patients will be discussed with consideration of their different physiology and common preexisting medical conditions. Osteoporosis is prevalent in elderly patients and profoundly affects fracture management. Comanagement with geriatricians or hospitalists should be pursued to help maximize outcomes in these patients and minimize the incidence of complications, including mortality. Advice on treatment of a variety of common geriatric fractures is provided, and outcomes after fractures, particularly those of the hip, in elderly patients are reviewed.