cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Diffuse neutron scattering in Nb-Zr alloys

The diffuse scattering of neutrons has been observed in the alloys Nb/sub 0.95/Zr/sub 0.05/ and Nb/sub 0.88/Zr/sub 0.12/ along the (111) direction around various reciprocal-lattice points. The intensity profiles were interpreted on the basis of the scattering cross section due to the lattice distortions caused by the substitutional impurity atoms. The observed peak near (3/4) can be related to the longitudinal phonon dispersion curve which has a local minimum near this wave vector.
Polanyi's Double Movement and Neoliberalization in Korea and Japan

This paper reformulates and extends Polanyi's main insights in The Great Transformations (2001 [1944]) and attempts to theorize the societal countermovement against neoliberalism by illustrating the cases of Korea and Japan. Polanyi's main approach was to synthesize three critical domains: the state, market, and society, and his notion of double movement should be understood as such. Predicated on his double movement, I analytically decompose the mechanism of societal countermovement, emphasizing the importance of social organizations that aggregate people's insecurities and translate them into a political voice capable of acquiring social protection. Applying this analytical framework of the double movement to Korea and Japan reveals that the problem with the conventional understanding of the double movement is that it necessarily arrives at social compensation equilibrium. This paper implies that a highly contentious society, like Korea's, and a highly docile society, like Japan's, may both hinder socia...
A local regulator's rewards for conformity in policy

This note is an empirical investigation of the benefits that accrue to local building departments for a regulatory policy that conforms to the relative strength of local interest groups. The study uses an interest group model and applies it to data for building departments in 1100 municipalities. It finds that material benefits in terms of budgets and salaries go to building agencies which set a strictness of regulation that reflects the balance of interest group strengths in the locality.
Land Allocation under Uncertainty for Alternative Specifications of Return Distributions

Using the expected utility-moment-generating function approach, a land allocation rule is derived which is both independent of the nature of the underlying distribution of each element in the choice set and accounts for all moments of that distribution. This decision rule is applied to the choice between cotton and corn in the Mississippi Delta to demonstrate that consideration of just the first two moments of the distribution can often be unjustified and damaging empirically, theoretically, and in terms of the utility of the decision maker.
Learning capacities of Tupaiidae—the transitional insectivora-primates

A review of the literature on learning by transitional Tupaiidae indicates that they learn traditional operants and their performance on other single problems such as visual pattern and brightness as well as delayed response is comparable with prosimians. However, complex problem learning of delayed alternation and object discrimination learning-set is typically quantitatively inferior to prosimians. The most striking findings involve Tupaiidaeś reversal and nonreversal shift learning-set ability contrasted with their failure to demonstrate cross-modal transfer and evidencing only random presolution strategies. In view of current emphasis on transfer paradigms and analysis of presolutional behavior, the latter findings suggest important differences between Tupaiidae and primates.
Observing systems and data sets related to the cryosphere in Canada: A contribution to planning for the global climate observing system

Abstract The current status and history of observing systems for snow cover, sea and freshwater ice, glaciers, ice caps, ground ice and permafrost in Canada are reviewed as part of a contribution to the WMO's Global Climate Observing System program. The data requirements that have been identified by previous discussion groups for different research, change detection and monitoring purposes are summarized. Problem areas in data collection and processing, as well as gaps in the observing/data systems, are illustrated and the status of cryospheric data archives relating to Canada, and data distribution, are discussed. The present status is considered to be unsatisfactory in a number of respects for the different cryospheric variables important for global change research.
“What's to keep you from dropping out?” Student Immigration into and within Engineering

Nearly one-half of the industrial engineering undergraduate interviewees in an investigation of their degree program indicated they previously had been enrolled in another major. Understanding why these students chose to remain in or enter a science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) major when their previous choice lost its appeal is an important piece of the STEM participation puzzle. Our data indicate effective formal and informal recruiting, contact with dynamic individuals who conveyed commitment to and excitement about the department and program, and a department that welcomed immigrants and promoted a clear, relevant image of its discipline’s identity, influenced student decisions to relocate within STEM rather than attrite. The high proportion of females within the immigrant students is one factor contributing to the department’s attainment of sex parity. Our students’ stories offer lessons to other departments for attracting and retaining students who enter the higher education STEM pipeline.
Determination of iron in urine

Abstract A method, involving wet ashing followed by reaction with dipyridyl, is described for the determination of iron in urine from patients being treated with chelating agents. Some sources of analytical error and of contamination are discussed. The need to re-investigate analytical procedures before they are applied to different biological materials is emphasised.
Angiopoietin-1 Opposes VEGF-Induced Increase in Endothelial Permeability by Inhibiting TRPC1-Dependent Ca2+ Influx

Angiopoietin-1 (Ang1) exerts a vascular endothelial barrier protective effect by blocking the action of permeability-increasing mediators such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) through unclear mechanisms. Because VEGF may signal endothelial hyperpermeability through the phospholipase C (PLC)-IP3 pathway that activates extracellular Ca2+ entry via the plasmalemmal store-operated channel transient receptor potential canonical-1 (TRPC1), we addressed the possibility that Ang1 acts by inhibiting this Ca2+ entry mechanism in endothelial cells. Studies in endothelial cell monolayers demonstrated that Ang1 inhibited the VEGF-induced Ca2+ influx and increase in endothelial permeability in a concentration-dependent manner. Inhibitors of the PLC-IP3 Ca2+ signaling pathway prevented the VEGF-induced Ca2+ influx and hyperpermeability similar to the inhibitory effects seen with Ang1. Ang1 had no effect on PLC phosphorylation and IP3 production, thus its permeability-decreasing effect could not be ascribed to inhibition of PLC activation. However, Ang1 interfered with downstream IP3-dependent plasmalemmal Ca2+ entry without affecting the release of intracellular Ca2+ stores. Anti-TRPC1 antibody inhibited the VEGF-induced Ca2+ entry and the increased endothelial permeability. TRPC1 overexpression in endothelial cells augmented the VEGF-induced Ca2+ entry, and application of Ang1 opposed this effect. In immunoprecipitation studies, Ang1 inhibited the association of IP3 receptor (IP3R) and TRPC1, consistent with the coupling hypothesis of Ca2+ entry. These results demonstrate that Ang1 blocks the TRPC1-dependent Ca2+ influx induced by VEGF by interfering with the interaction of IP3R with TRPC1, and thereby abrogates the increase in endothelial permeability.
On the multivariate total least-squares approach to empirical coordinate transformations. Three algorithms

The multivariate total least-squares (MTLS) approach aims at estimating a matrix of parameters, Ξ, from a linear model (Y−E Y = (X−E X ) · Ξ) that includes an observation matrix, Y, another observation matrix, X, and matrices of randomly distributed errors, E Y and E X . Two special cases of the MTLS approach include the standard multivariate least-squares approach where only the observation matrix, Y, is perturbed by random errors and, on the other hand, the data least-squares approach where only the coefficient matrix X is affected by random errors. In a previous contribution, the authors derived an iterative algorithm to solve the MTLS problem by using the nonlinear Euler–Lagrange conditions. In this contribution, new lemmas are developed to analyze the iterative algorithm, modify it, and compare it with a new ‘closed form’ solution that is based on the singular-value decomposition. For an application, the total least-squares approach is used to estimate the affine transformation parameters that convert cadastral data from the old to the new Israeli datum. Technical aspects of this approach, such as scaling the data and fixing the columns in the coefficient matrix are investigated. This case study illuminates the issue of “symmetry” in the treatment of two sets of coordinates for identical point fields, a topic that had already been emphasized by Teunissen (1989, Festschrift to Torben Krarup, Geodetic Institute Bull no. 58, Copenhagen, Denmark, pp 335–342). The differences between the standard least-squares and the TLS approach are analyzed in terms of the estimated variance component and a first-order approximation of the dispersion matrix of the estimated parameters.
Substituent effects on exchange coupling: 5-Aryl-substituted semiquinones and their complexes with MnII and CuII

A series of functionalized radical anion semiquinone (SQ-Ar) ligands and their MnII- and CuIIhydro-tris(3-cumenyl-5-methylpyrazolyl)borate (TpCum,MeMII) complexes were prepared and characterized. The semiquinone ligands have substituted phenyl rings (Ar = −C6H5NO2, −C6H5OMe, −C6H5-tert-Bu, etc.) attached to the SQ 5-position. Despite the “remoteness” of the phenyl ring substituents, the MII-SQ exchange parameters, J, were found to vary nearly 3-fold. Attempts to quantify the substituent effects on J are complicated by the fact that not all complexes could be structurally characterized. As such, substituent effects and phenyl-ring torsion angles could conspire to produce the observed variation in J values. Although there is no clear trend in the J values as a function of SQ substituent for the MnII complexes, for the CuII complexes, electron-withdrawing substituents on the phenyl ring have greater ferromagnetic J values than the CuII complexes of SQ ligands with electron-donating substituents. This trend s...
Improved Technologies Now Routinely Provide Protein NMR Structures Useful for Molecular Replacement

Summary Molecular replacement (MR) is widely used for addressing the phase problem in X-ray crystallography. Historically, crystallographers have had limited success using NMR structures as MR search models. Here, we report a comprehensive investigation of the utility of protein NMR ensembles as MR search models, using data for 25 pairs of X-ray and NMR structures solved and refined using modern NMR methods. Starting from NMR ensembles prepared by an improved protocol, FindCore, correct MR solutions were obtained for 22 targets. Based on these solutions, automatic model rebuilding could be done successfully. Rosetta refinement of NMR structures provided MR solutions for another two proteins. We also demonstrate that such properly prepared NMR ensembles and X-ray crystal structures have similar performance when used as MR search models for homologous structures, particularly for targets with sequence identity >40%.
New Evidence for Intrinsic Blood Coagulation in Chickens

Abstract Coagulation of blood in chickens is considered the result of an extrinsic clotting system initiated, as in mammals, by tissue thromboplastin released from injured tissues. Blood coagulation in mammals depends principally on an intrinsic mechanism in which thromboplastin is generated from blood itself. Only a negligible role, if any, has been ascribed to an intrinsic system in chickens. A reevaluation of intrinsic coagulation in chickens was undertaken in this study. Whole blood of chickens was found to clot over 30% faster when contacted by suitable surface activators such as kaolin or glass than when such contact was omitted. Plasma recalcification times were significantly (P
Response of turbulent premixed flames to harmonic acoustic forcing

Abstract The objective of this paper is to compare the response of laminar and turbulent premixed flames to harmonic forcing. This work is motivated by the growing body of work on the laminar flame problem, much of it with corresponding experimental validation. However, the relevance of these results to turbulent flames, and the degree to which turbulent and laminar flames exhibit similar quantitative and qualitative responses is currently unclear. This paper addresses this problem by solving the nonlinear G -equation in its implicit form, so that highly turbulent flame features are included, such as multi-valued front position and pocket formation. In particular, it analyzes the response of the flame to an imposed harmonic velocity disturbance of amplitude u a ′ / S L , superposed upon a background turbulent velocity field of varying intensity, u T ′ / S L . The results are compared with those obtained for flames forced by a harmonic velocity field without background turbulence. It is shown that the qualitative dynamics of the flames remain similar, with significant quantitative differences. This is due to the following: in the absence of background turbulence, harmonic forcing generates sinusoidal wrinkles on the flame which convect downstream. The amplitude of these wrinkles decrease with downstream distance due the propagation of the flame normal to itself. The rate of this flame area destruction grows nonlinearly with amplitude of forcing, so that the flame area perturbation amplitude does not grow linearly with amplitude of u a ′ . Background turbulence enhances the destruction rate of these harmonic wrinkles. Thus, there is a net decrease in the ensemble averaged flame area fluctuation at the harmonic forcing frequency, causing a reduction in the coherent response of the turbulent flame relative to its laminar value.
Comprehensive Assessment of Emotional Disturbance: A Cross-Validation Approach

Assessing a student for emotional disturbance is a serious and complex task given the stigma of the label and the ambiguities of the federal definition. One way that school psychologists can be more confident in their assessment results is to cross validate data from different sources using the RIOT approach (Review, Interview, Observe, Test). Because each data collection process has advantages and limitations, using all four processes together allows for comprehensive assessment for emotional disturbance. Additionally, school psychologists should strongly consider a student’s strengths, cultural factors, and the interaction between the student and the environment in order to interpret assessment findings. This approach serves to tailor interventions regardless of diagnosis.
Multidimensional balanced binary trees

A new balanced multidimensional tree structure called a k-dimensional balanced binary tree, where k is a positive integer, is presented and integrated. It is shown that the data structure can be used to manage a set of n k-dimensional data items such that access, insertion, and deletion operations can be supported in O(log n+k) time. The data structure is a multidimensional generalization of a balanced binary tree and retains much of the simplicity and efficiency of the base structure. The data structure requires O(k) single rotations for each insertion or deletion operation. >
Re‐configurable dual‐robot assembly system design, development and future directions

This paper describes the design and development of a re‐configurable dual‐robot assembly system using off‐the‐shelf re‐configurable pneumatic modules, Hall‐effect sensors, a vision system, and a programmable logic controller (PLC). Each robot arm consists of three sets of pneumatic modules and a pneumatic gripper. Each module consists of a pneumatic housing, an air cylinder, and a Hall‐effect sensor, and provides one degree of freedom. Solenoids are used to redirect airflow and thereby extend and/or retract the air cylinder. A vision system is used for fixture inspection. A conveyor and part stopper are designed to transfer and stop pallets. All these modules, the gripper, the part stopper, and the vision system are controlled and synchronized using a PLC. At the end of this paper, a framework for making the system over the Web for remote operation and diagnosis is proposed and described.
Using Statistical Probability to Increase Confidence of Inferring Species Extinction

One of the many daunting problems in conservation biology is determining when a species has gone extinct (Diamond 1987). A superficial evaluation of the problem might lead one to believe that this is a simple task-one either finds a species extant, or it is extinct. But species sometimes are not seen for many years and then are resighted (Atkinson et al. 1991). In the same vein, the literature regularly reports the discovery of new species, even within well-known taxa such as birds (Dinesen et al. 1994), demonstrating the difficulty of detecting species during surveys. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and the World Conservation Union have arbitrarily set 50 years with no sightings as the cut-off for species extinction, even if no one has looked for the species (World Conservation Union 1982). Clearly, a more useful alternative for inferring extinction is needed. Extant species mnight not be seen during a survey because they are behaviorally or morphologically cryptic, because the area is difficult to survey, or because the species is unconmmon (Bibby et al. 1992). If species extinction is to be followed by habitat conversion (e.g., the habitat was previously protected only under laws such as the U.S. Endangered Species Act), increased certainty in inferring species extinction is critical. Solow (1993) presented two statistical methods for inferring species extinction based on repeated sampling of an area. His method assumes a Poisson distribution of species sightings prior to suspected extinction and uses either statistical inference or Bayesian methods to determine whether a recent lack of sightings is likely associated with extinction. I present a different method for assessing certainty of extinction using statistical probability. This method is based on statistical power (Cohen 1988) and addresses the question of how many visits without sighting a target species are required to be statistically confident of its absence.
Heparin versus normal saline as a peripheral line flush in maintenance of intermittent intravenous lines in obstetric patients

Objective: To compare heparin sodium (100 United States Pharmacopeia U/mL) with 0.9% sodium chloride for use in the maintenance of intermittent intravenous (IV) devices during pregnancy. Methods: Women at 26–34 weeks' gestation who required serial phlebotomy were assigned randomly to heparin or normal saline flush, administered in a double-blind fashion. Catheter sites were examined and flushed with the study solution at least once every 6 hours. Partial thromboplastin times (PTTs) were measured at catheter insertion and 48 hours later. Statistical analysis was performed with Student t test, Mann-Whitney U test, Fisher exact test, log-rank, and χ 2 analysis, as appropriate. Results: There was a significant increase in catheter patency rate at 48 and 72 hours in the heparin group (26 of 31 versus 17 of 33, and 21 of 31 versus nine of 33, respectively; P P Conclusion: During pregnancy, dilute heparin flush to maintain patency of intermittent IV site devices results in the following: a greater catheter patency rate at 48 and 72 hours after insertion of the catheter, a lower rate of catheter complications requiring therapy, and no alteration in PTT.
Air pollution and type 1 diabetes in children

Background: Over the past decade, there has been a worldwide largely unexplained increase in the incidence of type 1 diabetes in young children. This study explores the quantitative role of exposure to specific air pollutants in the development of type 1 diabetes in children. Methods: A total of 402 children were retrospectively studied. Zip code-related, time-specific birth-to-diagnosis exposure to five ambient air pollutants was obtained for 102 children with type 1 diabetes and 300 healthy children receiving care at a single hospital. Pollution exposure levels were created by summing up zip code-specific pollution data and dividing by months of exposure from birth to diagnosis. Analysis employed χ2, two-tailed independent sample t-test and unconditional logistic regression. Results: Odds ratio (OR) was significantly high for cumulative exposure to ambient ozone (O3) and sulfate (SO4) in cases compared with controls, OR = 2.89 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.80–4.62] and OR = 1.65 (CI = 1.20–2.28), respectively, even after adjustment for several potential confounders. Passive smoking was more frequent in children with diabetes (30 vs. 10%, p = 0.001). Attending day care and breast feeding in infancy were less frequent in children with diabetes (14 vs. 23%, p = 0.025; 59 vs. 78%, p = 0.001). Family history of diabetes, autoimmune disease and drug abuse was more frequent in cases (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Cumulative exposure to ozone and sulfate in ambient air may predispose to the development of type 1 diabetes in children. Early infant formula feeding and passive smoking in the household may precipitate or accelerate the onset of type 1 diabetes.
Simple estimation of intermittency in multifractal stochastic processes: biomedical applications

Abstract A number of physical and biological phenomena are intermittent in the sense that they tend to have large departures from their typical dynamics. The intermittency of a multifractal can be qualified and quantified by differential or nondifferential multifractality , the extent to which the generalized Hurst exponents differ. Multifractality is related to the generalized dimension of a singular measure, but also applies to other signals, including noises, walks, anomalous diffusion, and point processes. Multifractality has uses in data-model and data-data comparisons; e.g., the multifractality of the heart rate reveals the inadequacy of unifractal models and distinguishes healthy subjects from those with heart failure. In addition, the multifractality of human activity quantifies restfulness at night.
Fuel Optimization for Constrained Rotation of Spacecraft Formations

The problem of reorienting a constellation of spacecraft such that the fuel distributed across the constellation is both conserved and expended uniformly is considered. Results are derived for constellations with an arbitrary number of spacecraft, assumingthat the constellation is in free space, that the spacecraftmass is time invariant,and that the thrusters can produce thrust in any direction. An open-loop control algorithm is derived by minimizing a cost function that trades off total fuel minimization and fuel equalization. The associated optimization problem is shown to be amenable to standard algorithms. Simulation results using a four-spacecraft constellation are given.
Estrogen Receptor-related Receptor α1 Interacts with Coactivator and Constitutively Activates the Estrogen Response Elements of the Human Lactoferrin Gene

The human estrogen receptor-related receptor (ERRalpha1, NR3B1a) was shown to bind a steroidogenic factor binding element (SFRE), TCAAGGTCATC, 26 base pairs upstream from the estrogen response element (ERE) of the human lactoferrin gene promoter. A mutation made at SFRE significantly reduced estrogen-dependent transcription from the lactoferrin ERE in human endometrial cells. In this study, we demonstrated that ERRalpha1 binds both SFRE and ERE elements and constitutively transactivates the lactoferrin gene promoter. In DNase I footprinting protection analysis, both SFRE and ERE regions were protected by glutathione S-transferase-ERRalpha1 fusion protein. The receptor formed two protein-DNA complexes with either SFRE or ERE in electrophoresis mobility shift assay. Homodimerization of ERRalpha1 was confirmed with the mammalian two-hybrid system. ERRalpha1 activates reporter constructs containing various types of estrogen response elements in endometrial and non-endometrial cells in transient transfection experiments. Overexpressing the coactivator, SRC1a or GRIP1, further enhances ERRalpha1-induced transcriptional activity. We demonstrated that the AF2 domain of ERRalpha1 is essential for the transactivation function and that deletion or mutation at this region abrogates the activation capability. Protein-protein interaction between the SRC1a and ERRalpha1 C terminus was confirmed with a GST glutathione S-transferase "pull-down" assay. When comparing ERRalpha1 and the estrogen receptor alpha (ERalpha) in many of the experiments, we found that ERalpha can also bind SFRE of the lactoferrin gene and transactivate the promoter activity in a ligand-dependent manner. The present study demonstrated that ERRalpha1 binds similar DNA elements as ERalpha and confers its transactivation function constitutively. Therefore, ERRalpha1 may actively modulate the estrogen response of lactoferrin gene as well as other estrogen-responsive genes.
The extracellular calcium sensing receptor is required for cholecystokinin secretion in response to L-phenylalanine in acutely isolated intestinal I cells

The extracellular calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) has recently been recognized as an l-amino acid sensor and has been implicated in mediating cholecystokinin (CCK) secretion in response to aromatic amino acids. We investigated whether direct detection of l-phenylalanine (l-Phe) by CaSR results in CCK secretion in the native I cell. Fluorescence-activated cell sorting of duodenal I cells from CCK-enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) transgenic mice demonstrated CaSR gene expression. Immunostaining of fixed and fresh duodenal tissue sections confirmed CaSR protein expression. Intracellular calcium fluxes were CaSR dependent, stereoselective for l-Phe over d-Phe, and responsive to type II calcimimetic cinacalcet in CCK-eGFP cells. Additionally, CCK secretion by an isolated I cell population was increased by 30 and 62% in response to l-Phe in the presence of physiological (1.26 mM) and superphysiological (2.5 mM) extracellular calcium concentrations, respectively. While the deletion of CaSR from CCK-eGFP cells did not affect basal CCK secretion, the effect of l-Phe or cinacalcet on intracellular calcium flux was lost. In fact, both secretagogues, as well as superphysiological Ca2+, evoked an unexpected 20–30% decrease in CCK secretion compared with basal secretion in CaSR−/− CCK-eGFP cells. CCK secretion in response to KCl or tryptone was unaffected by the absence of CaSR. The present data suggest that CaSR is required for hormone secretion in the specific response to l-Phe by the native I cell, and that a receptor-mediated mechanism may inhibit hormone secretion in the absence of a fully functional CaSR.
Australia, Canada and the United States: Ethnic Melting Pots or Plural Societies?

Structural similarities in these three societies have produced in each of them two very different situations of race and ethnic relations. First, in the 'frontier' situation the European immigrants displaced the indigenes both geographically and culturally, and created similar systems of internal colonialism to deal with the dispossessed remnants of aborigines and Amerindians. Second, large numbers of largely European immigrants settled mostly in cities, and gradually became assimilated into the Anglo mainstream of their host societies. While the label of 'Anglo-conformity' describes the process of assimilation better than that of 'melting pot', there is no question that the European immigrant groups became a relatively homogenous amalgam.It is predicted that the 'ethnic revival' of the 1970s will not significantly reverse this process of assimilation, and that only Canada, with its large, stable territorialized French minority, faces a serious possibility of ethnic separatism.
Growth of 1,3,5‐Triamino‐2,4,6,‐Trinitrobenzene (TATB). II. Control of growth by use of high‐Tg polymeric binders

The remarkable safety characteristics of the high explosive 1,3,5-triamino-2,4,6-trinitrobenzene (TATB) are revolutionizing the design and deployment of nuclear weapons. Kel-F 800 is used as the binder to obtain high-density, mechanically stable billets of TATB that can be machined into desired shapes. However, repeated thermal cycling between − 54 °C and 74 °C of high density, pure, and plastic-bonded TATB billets causes a permanent volume expansion (growth) of about 1.5 vol% to 2.0 vol%. Debonding of the Kel-F 800 binder occurs during growth, causing a reduction in the mechanical properties of the plastic-bonded explosive. The coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of these TATB billets between ambient temperature and 74 °C is 67.0 × 10−6/°C. TATB undergoes a secondary mechanical relaxation just above room temperature, coinciding with the onset of a high CTE, above the glass transition temperature (Tg) of Kel-F 800. Thus, by judicious selection of a high-Tg binder, we have essentially eliminated growth, stopped the degradation of mechanical properties after thermal cycling, suppressed the secondary mechanical relaxation, and lowered the CTE to 50.0 × 10−6/°C between ambient temperature and 74 °C.
Servant leadership and serving culture: Influence on individual and unit performance

In a sample of 961 employees working in 71 restaurants of a moderately sized restaurant chain, we investigated a key tenet of servant leadership theory—that servant leaders guide followers to emula...
Recovery after brain injury: mechanisms and principles

The past 20 years have represented an important period in the development of principles underlying neuroplasticity, especially as they apply to recovery from neurological injury. It is now generally accepted that acquired brain injuries, such as occur in stroke or trauma, initiate a cascade of regenerative events that last for at least several weeks, if not months. Many investigators have pointed out striking parallels between post-injury plasticity and the molecular and cellular events that take place during normal brain development. As evidence for the principles and mechanisms underlying post-injury neuroplasticity has been gleaned from both animal models and human populations, novel approaches to therapeutic intervention have been proposed. One important theme has persisted as the sophistication of clinicians and scientists in their knowledge of neuroplasticity mechanisms has grown: behavioral experience is the most potent modulator of brain plasticity. While there is substantial evidence for this principle in normal, healthy brains, the injured brain is particularly malleable. Based on the quantity and quality of motor experience, the brain can be reshaped after injury in either adaptive or maladaptive ways. This paper reviews selected studies that have demonstrated the neurophysiological and neuroanatomical changes that are triggered by motor experience, by injury, and the interaction of these processes. In addition, recent studies using new and elegant techniques are providing novel perspectives on the events that take place in the injured brain, providing a real-time window into post-injury plasticity. These new approaches are likely to accelerate the pace of basic research, and provide a wealth of opportunities to translate basic principles into therapeutic methodologies.
The fructose nation.

There is growing miasma in our national correspondence over the increasing heft and metabolic dysfunction of everyday Americans. The origin of this mounting poundage has many parents, not the least of which is our appetite for nutritive (read caloric) sweeteners in processed foods and beverages. The
Voting by Mail: Turnout and Institutional Reform in Oregon*

Objectives. I test the impact of Oregon's vote-by-mail system on voter turnout. Methods. To determine the impact, I create a cross-sectional time-series regression model of state turnout in presidential elections from 1980 to 2004 and mid-term elections from 1982 to 2006. Results. I find that Oregon's turnout increases by around 10 percentage points of registered voters in both presidential and mid-term elections due to the voting-by-mail reform. Conclusions. These results suggest that one of the reasons that the United States has comparatively lower turnout is due to its more onerous voting procedures.
Cell phone usage: an analysis of users' subjective responses in the adoption

Cell phones are a pervasive new communication technology today, especially among college students. This paper examines college students' cell phone usage from a behavioral and psychological perspective. Utilizing both qualitative (focus groups) and quantitative (survey) approaches, the study suggests these individuals use the devices for a variety of purposes: to help them feel safe, for financial benefits, to manage time efficiently, to keep in touch with friends and family members, et al. The degree to which the individuals are dependent on the cell phones and what they view as the negatives of their utilization are also examined. The findings suggest that people have various feelings and attitudes toward cell phone usages. This study serves as a foundation on which future studies will be built.
DEFINED MEDIUM FOR GROWTH OF FOOT-AND-MOUTH DISEASE VIRUS

Pledger, Richard A. (Plum Island Animal Disease Laboratory, Greenport, N. Y.) and Jerome Polatnick. Defined medium for growth of foot-and-mouth disease virus. J. Bacteriol. 83:579–583. 1962.—Foot-and-mouth disease virus, grown in primary bovine calf-kidney cell layers with a defined medium containing glucose as the only organic substrate, produced virus titers equivalent to those obtained with complex media containing serum and lactalbumin hydrolyzate. Mannose was the only other substrate examined that could replace glucose. Krebscycle intermediates did not or only partially supported viral replication. Phosphate was also found essential for reproduction of foot-and-mouth disease virus. The rate of heat inactivation of foot-and-mouth disease virus in defined medium was more than twice that in complex medium. This, however, did not interfere with the usefulness of the defined medium for short-term biochemical investigations.
Propagation of non-synaptic epileptiform activity across a lesion in rat hippocampal slices

1. Spontaneous non-synaptic epileptiform activity was induced by bathing rat hippocampal slices in low-Ca(2+) solution. Extracellular recordings from electrodes placed on both sides of a complete cut showed that non-synaptic activity was synchronized across the lesion. 2. Ion-selective electrode recordings showed that each event was accompanied by a transient increase in extracellular potassium that diffused across the lesion. The synchrony was destroyed when a thin film was inserted into the lesion site. 3. Local pressure ejection of KCl evoked an event that subsequently propagated across the lesion. 4. After a complete lesion was made, afterdischarges evoked on one half of a slice were not detected on the other half. 5. Voltage-sensitive dye imaging methods showed that epileptic activity propagated across the mechanical lesion without significant attenuation or additional delays. The velocity of the activity was consistent with that of the slow diffusion of a potassium wave. 6. Since field effects were significantly attenuated across the lesion and all gap junctions and cell processes across the lesion would be cut, these data show that extracellular diffusion, most probably potassium, is sufficient to synchronize populations of neurons and propagate slow frequency epileptiform activity.
Adaptive IIR filtering: composite prefiltered regressor method

In this paper, we present a new method for adaptive IIR filtering that promises improved performance under general operating conditions, including both colored and white noise, sufficient and insufficient order filter cases. By defining the regressor in adaptive IIR filter update to be a convex combination of the regressors for the Steiglitz-McBride method (SMM) and recursive predicted error method (RPEM), we are able to tradeoff the benefits of each. RPEM minimizes mean square output error (MSOE) directly, and thus has slow convergence rate and may converge to a local minimum because of nonconvexity and multimodality of MSOE surface, SMM converges fast, but may converge to a biased solution or diverge in colored noise environments. Other composite methods (e.g., composite regressor method (CRM)) use a similar approach, but only focus on reducing bias of equation error estimates for sufficient order filters in white noise environments. Conversely, our method, CPRM, can extend applications to general environments, prevent diverging, reduce bias, and increase likelihood of convergence to the global minimum. >
Scaling in the growth of geographically subdivided populations: invariant patterns from a continent-wide biological survey

We consider statistical patterns of variation in growth rates for over 400 species of breeding birds across North America surveyed from 1966 to 1998. We report two results. First, the standard deviation of population growth rates decays as a power–law function of total population size with an exponent β = 0.36 ± 0.02. Second, the number of subpopulations, measured as the number of survey locations with non–zero counts, scales to the 3/4 power of total number of birds counted in a given species. We show how these patterns may be related, and discuss a simple stochastic growth model for a geographically subdivided population that formalizes the relationship. We also examine reasons that may explain why some species deviate from these scaling laws.
Research Article: Effects of salt stress on capsaicin content, growth, and fluorescence in a Jalapeño cultivar of Capsicum annuum (Solanaceae)

Abstract. Although there are many different species of pepper plants (Capsicum spp.), all are from the New World tropics, and landraces such as Jalapeno (Capsicum annuum cv. Jalapeno) have been selected for optimum performance in response to local abiotic and biotic stresses. Pepper plants produce the phenolic compound capsaicin, primarily in the placenta of fruits, possibly to deter mammalian herbivores in favor of avian frugivores. Capsaicin content is influenced by genetic and environmental conditions including soil moisture and fertility, temperature, and light. In order to explore the relationship between abiotic stress and fruit capsaicin content, Jalapeno pepper plants were grown from seed, and then treated with 0.0, 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5% NaCl solution. Capsaicin extracts from Jalapeno fruits were analyzed using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). None of the parameters tested were significantly different between the control or treatment groups, but the following trends were found in the da...
Hormesis: The Dose-Response Revolution

Hormesis, a dose-response relationship phenomenon characterized by low-dose stimulation and high-dose inhibition, has been frequently observed in properly designed studies and is broadly generalizable as being independent of chemical/physical agent, biological model, and endpoint measured. This under-recognized and -appreciated concept has the potential to profoundly change toxicology and its related disciplines with respect to study design, animal model selection, endpoint selection, risk assessment methods, and numerous other aspects, including chemotherapeutics. This article indicates that as a result of hormesis, fundamental changes in the concept and conduct of toxicology and risk assessment should be made, including (a) the definition of toxicology, (b) the process of hazard (e.g., including study design, selection of biological model, dose number and distribution, endpoint measured, and temporal sequence) and risk assessment [e.g., concept of NOAEL (no observed adverse effect level), low dose modeling, recognition of beneficial as well as harmful responses] for all agents, and (c) the harmonization of cancer and noncancer risk assessment.
Car navigation system with image recognition

Many cars now have on-board cameras, and many kinds of driver support systems that use image recognition are being developed. We developed a car navigation system with image recognition that enhances drivers' safety, convenience, and entertainment.
Dyadic Adjustment Processes in Divorce Counseling.

This article reviews nine stage models of divorce adjustment, all but one of which define adjustment to divorce in terms of the individual experience. As an alternative to these models, the authors describe the Dyadic Divorce Adjustment Processes Model, which depicts the divorce process as a journey traveled by two persons, experiencing parallel, but not necessarily simultaneous progression, and which presents the transition from married to divorced as both a linear and dynamic phenomenon. In addition, the authors introduce the concept of experiential levels or states in the adjustment process, accounting for the dynamic aspect of divorce. Four different levels and concomitant therapeutic issues for each level are presented and described in relation to divorce adjustment counseling.
A comparison of spreadsheet users with different levels of experience

How do experienced spreadsheet users compare to inexperienced ones, and what light can this comparison shed on spreadsheet best practices? This is the question we address in this paper, using the results from a survey of nearly 1600 respondents. This survey was completed by a wide range of spreadsheet users and focused on their significant characteristics and practices. We were interested in their training, experience, collaboration, and quality control methods. We also examined the number of spreadsheet functions they used regularly, the manner in which they created spreadsheets, and the types of tests they used to check results. We compared two subgroups corresponding to two extremes with respect to their self-reported level of experience and skill. Each subgroup was represented by roughly 10% of the total respondents. Our results suggest that there is a substantial difference between these groups, not only in their personal backgrounds and the corporate setting within which they work, but also in their individual spreadsheet skills and practices. We find that the most experienced subgroup exhibits many desirable characteristics and practices.
Interannual Variations of Indian Summer Monsoon in a GCM: External Conditions versus Internal Feedbacks

The potential predictability of the Indian summer monsoon due to slowly varying sea surface temperature (SST) forcing is examined. Factors responsible for limiting the predictability are also investigated. Three multiyear simulations with the R30 version of the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory’s climate model are carried out for this purpose. The mean monsoon simulated by this model is realistic including the mean summer precipitation over the Indian continent. The interannual variability of the large-scale component of the monsoon such as the ‘‘monsoon shear index’’ and its teleconnection with Pacific SST is well simulated by the model in a 15-yr integration with observed SST as boundary condition. On regional scales, the skill in simulating the interannual variability of precipitation over the Indian continent by the model is rather modest and its simultaneous correlation with eastern Pacific SST is negative but poor as observed. The poor predictability of precipitation over the Indian region in the model is related to the fact that contribution to the interannual variability over →
Dreaming of Reform: University Intellectuals during the Lemus regime and the Civic-Military Junta in El Salvador (1960-1961)

Lieutenant-Colonel Jose Maria Lemus, a protege of President Oscar Osorio (1950-1956), roseto power in 1956. Lemus is often remembered as an authoritarian ruler, but at the outset of hispresidency he allowed the return of exiles and abolished the “Law in Defense of Democraticand Constitutional Order,” sanctioned during Osorio’s anti-communist crackdown in 1952.Lemus governed El Salvador during a period of declining prosperity as coffee prices plungedin the international markets, forcing an economic restructuring which had particularly negativeconsequences for the poor. But more importantly, the changing political landscape in LatinAmerica posed enormous challenges to Lemus, as opposition forces ousted Venezuelan dictatorMarcos Perez Jimenez in January 1958 and revolutionaries led by Fidel Castro took power in Cubain January 1959. Political events in Venezuela and Cuba inspired a new wave of mobilization inEl Salvador led by the recently formed Partido Revolucionario Abril y Mayo (PRAM) and FrenteNacional de Orientacion Civica (FNOC) which challenged Lemus’ authoritarian regime. Whilethe local press followed step by step events in Cuba as reported by U.S. press agencies, Lemusand the Revolutionary Party of Democratic Unification (PRUD), the official party, showed arenewed determination to prevent the spread of “Cuban-inspired subversion” in El Salvador. Tothis end, Sidney Mazzini, a representative of the PRUD at the National Assembly envisioned theformation of what he termed a “sanitary cordon” around Cuba.
Accelerated lipoprotein uptake by transplantable hepatomas that express hepatic lipase

To test the hypothesis that hepatic lipase plays a key role in lipoprotein removal in vivo, a novel system was used. Hepatoma cells (HTC 7288c) were transfected with a cDNA encoding hepatic lipase in culture and grown as solid tumors in vivo. In culture, transfected cells degraded chylo- micron remnants and low density lipoprotein (LDL) some- what more efficiently than untransfected cells. Tumors from the transplanted cells produced hepatic lipase local- ized to the surface of tumors from transfected cells but not tumors from non-transfected cells, grown in the same rat. The tumors from transfected cells removed, per gm of tis- sue, 34% ( P , 0.001) more 125 I-labeled LDL than tumors from non-transfected cells in the same animal. The uptake of chylomicron remnants (by tumors from transfected cells) was also modestly enhanced (15 6 6%, P , 0.005). There were no differences in the uptake of 125 I-labeled albumin or 125 I-labeled asialoglycoprotein. Compared to the liver, the untransfected tumors took up 12%, and the transfected tu- mors took up about 18% as much LDL per gram of tissue. The uptake of chylomicron remnants compared to liver was far lower. Both types of tumors had about twice as much LDL receptor related protein as the liver. Wild-type tumors had the highest level of LDL receptor, twice hepatic lipase- secreting tumors, and six times that of the liver. Using the novel approach of transfecting transplantable tumor cells with hepatic lipase, the ability of hepatic lipase to facilitate the removal of apoB-containing lipoproteins was demon- strated. The liver still removes low density lipoprotein and especially chylomicron remnants more rapidly than the tu- mors, suggesting factors in addition to hepatic lipase and LDL receptor level play a major role in hepatic lipoprotein removal.— Donner, C., S. Choi, M. Komaromy, and A. D. Cooper. Accelerated lipoprotein uptake by transplantable hepatomas that express hepatic lipase. J. Lipid Res. 1998. 39: 1805-1815.
Engineering tumors by rolling sheets

A major challenge in cancer research has been the lack of experimental models that are easy to use and can fully recapitulate the biology of tumors. This is especially true for hypoxia and cancer metabolism studies, where existing two- and three-dimensional (3D) tissue cultures fail to capture many