cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Seasonal allocation of energy to respiration, growth and reproduction in the freshwater clams, Pisidium variabile and P. compressum (Bivalvia: Pisidiidae)

SUMMARY. 1. The ecological energetics of the pisidiid clams, Pisidium variabile and P. compressum, from permanent ponds in southwestern Ohio were studied from July 1978 to July 1980. Productivity (P; as g C m−2 yr −1) was 1.82 (0.80 and 1.02 for the spring and autumn generations) and 4.22 (2.69 and 1.53 for the spring and autumn generations) for P. variabile and P. compressum, respectively. 2. The average biomass (B; as g C m−2) of P. variabile was 0.54 (0.30 and 0.24 for the spring and autumn generations) and of P. compressum 1.09 (0.69 and 0.40 for the spring and autumn generations). P:B ratios for the spring and autumn generations of P. variabile were 2.7 and 4.2 and of P. compressum 3.9 and 3.8, which are below those reported for other iteroparous invertebrates. 3. Reproductive effort (Re:Px100) was 5.1 and 5.7 for the generations of P. variabile and 7.7 and 8.8 for the generations of P. compressum. These low values relative to other molluses can be attributed to a viviparous mode of reproduction and exposure to local environmental variability. In addition, the differences between the reproductive efforts of the spring and autumn generations of both species can be ascribed to season of birth and altometric constraints on reproductive capacity. 4. The data from this and related studies on pisidiid clams are used to generate several hypotheses concerning the evolution of life cycles in the family: (1) reproductive effort is limited by allometric constraints on clam size; (2) individuals of different ages can have different demographies and physiological rate functions; and (3) current one-dimensional life history theories are largely inappropriate when dealing with an organism that has a wide range of phenotypic responses to environmental variability as well as complex age structure.
Diagnostic Accuracy of Noncontrast Computed Tomography for Appendicitis in Adults: A Systematic Review

Study objective We seek to determine the diagnostic test characteristics of noncontrast computed tomography (CT) for appendicitis in the adult emergency department (ED) population. Methods We conducted a search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and the bibliographies of previous systematic reviews. Included studies assessed the diagnostic accuracy of noncontrast CT for acute appendicitis in adults by using the final diagnosis at surgery or follow-up at a minimum of 2 weeks as the reference standard. Studies were included only if the CT was completed using a multislice helical scanner. Two authors independently conducted the relevance screen of titles and abstracts, selected studies for the final inclusion, extracted data, and assessed study quality. Consensus was reached by conference, and any disagreements were adjudicated by a third reviewer. Unenhanced CT test performance was assessed with summary receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, with independently pooled sensitivity and specificity values across studies. Results The search yielded 1,258 publications; 7 studies met the inclusion criteria and provided a sample of 1,060 patients. The included studies were of high methodological quality with respect to appropriate patient spectrum and reference standard. Our pooled estimates for sensitivity and specificity were 92.7% (95% confidence interval 89.5% to 95.0%) and 96.1% (95% confidence interval 94.2% to 97.5%), respectively; the positive likelihood ratio=24 and the negative likelihood ratio=0.08. Conclusion We found the diagnostic accuracy of noncontrast CT for the diagnosis of acute appendicitis in the adult population to be adequate for clinical decisionmaking in the ED setting.
Treatment Trends and Predictors of Adjuvant and Neoadjuvant Therapy for Gastric Adenocarcinoma in the United States

Purpose Over the last decade, evidence suggesting the benefits of adjuvant therapy in the treatment of stage IB–III gastric adenocarcinoma has emerged, though the influence of these clinical trials and current treatment patterns is unknown. Our objectives were (1) to assess changes in gastric adenocarcinoma treatment over time, (2) to identify predictors of neoadjuvant or postoperative adjuvant therapy use, and (3) to identify factors associated with neoadjuvant therapy use.
Many-particle exchanges and the fractional quantized Hall effect.

Evidence is presented which suggests that many-particle exchanges stabilizes the ground state at particular filling factors. Common features are seen in the Laughlin trial wave function, in charge-density-wave wave functions as discussed by Tosatti and Parrinello and more recently by Chui Ma, and Hakim, as well as in the eigenstates of small clusters of particles.
Sports-Related Concussion in Helmeted vs. Unhelmeted Athletes: Who Fares Worse?

In the management of sports-related concussion, little is known about the effect of wearing or not wearing a helmet (i. e., helmet status) on the acute outcomes of concussed athletes. We endeavored to assess acute neurocognitive and symptom changes after SRC in helmeted vs. unhelmeted athletes. In a retrospective study, 1 025 athletes from 2 regional databases sustained a SRC. Athletes were matched by age, gender, number of prior concussions, and days to post-concussion test, yielding a final cohort of 138 athletes. For each group of 69, differences in post-concussion neurocognitive and symptom scores were compared using group mean differences as well as reliable change index (RCI) scores set at the 80% confidence interval. With gender, prior concussions, and days to post-concussion test similar in each group, using group mean change scores and RCI methodology, we found no significant differences between the helmeted and unhelmeted groups in 4 neurocognitive tests and one total symptom score. In a cohort of carefully matched athletes from 2 regional concussion centers, helmet status was unrelated to neurocognitive scores and total symptoms in athletes after suffering a SRC. These findings suggest that acute outcomes in helmeted vs. unhelmeted sports are quite similar.
Optical coatings deposited by reactive ion plating.

The effect of different reactive ion-plating process parameters on the transmittance and the reflectance of single layers of HfO2, Ta2O5, and SiO2 are investigated. The optical constants obtained for these three as-deposited materials are presented. Laser-damage threshold trends are examined on single- and double-layer coatings at 1064 nm and on high-reflectance coatings for 248 nm. Single- and double-cavity filters are constructed for the UV (<1-nm bandwidth) and near-infrared (50-nm bandwidth) regions, respectively. After the filters are postannealed in air at 375 °C for several hours, a shift in the peak wavelengths is observed along with a substantial increase in the peak transmittance. As expected, no significant wavelength shifts result from changes in the humidity of the ambient atmosphere.
Proprioception and tension receptors in crab limbs: student laboratory exercises

The primary purpose of these procedures is to demonstrate for teaching and research purposes how to record the activity of living primary sensory neurons responsible for proprioception as they are detecting joint position and movement, and muscle tension. Electrical activity from crustacean proprioceptors and tension receptors is recorded by basic neurophysiological instrumentation, and a transducer is used to simultaneously measure force that is generated by stimulating a motor nerve. In addition, we demonstrate how to stain the neurons for a quick assessment of their anatomical arrangement or for permanent fixation. Staining reveals anatomical organization that is representative of chordotonal organs in most crustaceans. Comparing the tension nerve responses to the proprioceptive responses is an effective teaching tool in determining how these sensory neurons are defined functionally and how the anatomy is correlated to the function. Three staining techniques are presented allowing researchers and instructors to choose a method that is ideal for their laboratory.
Chronic severe hemolytic anemia due to G-6-PD Charleston: A new deficient variant

An 11-year-o'.d Negro boy with a history of neonatal jaundice requiring exchange transfusion had a severe hemolytic episode at 8 years of age. A diagnosis of nonspherocytic congenital hemolytic anemia due to G-6-PD deficiency was made at that time. The red cells of the patient contained a level of G-6-PD activity approximating 14 per cent of normal. The residual enzyme was partially purified and characterized. It proved to be electrophoretically rapid. The Michaelis constant (K m ) for G-6-P was diminished and that for NADP increased. The enzyme had greatly increased utilization of deamino-NADP and slightly increased utilization of 2-deoxyglucose-6-phosphate. The pH optimum curve was slightly bimodal. Like most other G-6-PD variants associated with congenital nonspherocytic hemolytic anemia, the enzyme was thermally labile. This enzyme represents a new deficent variant, G-6-PD Charleston. The patient continues to have chronic severe hemolysis. Two brothers presumably died of the same enzyme deficiency. The erythrocytes of two living brothers contain G-6-PD A-, The mother is heterozygous for the two variants.
A critique on the effectiveness of tax-expenditure limitations

The principal purpose of this study is to investigate the probable impact of tax and spending limitations on tax burdens and state expenditures. This is accomplished via a systematic evaluation of the alternative proposals associated with tax limitation legislation. In particular, this paper analyzes the linking of state public sector growth to inflation, limiting tax burdens to a percent of personal income, the inclusion of escape clauses in the enabling legislation and the evolution of these tax limitations into legalized minimums.
The policy evaluation problem and the demand for money

Abstract This paper applies the Lucas policy evaluation proposition to the money demand function. We find some support for the hypothesis that the decrease in serial correlation of interest rates since the Fed policy change in 1979 has resulted in an increase in the estimated elasticity of money demand.
Plenary session: thoughts and musings on simulation education

Proper education of a modeling and simulation professional meeting the extensive criteria imposed by the community poses significant challenges. In this paper, we explore the formation of a university-based education in modeling and simulation to meet the challenges. We examine the factors affecting the composition of a modeling and simulation course. Based on the anticipated consequences, we propose potential solutions.
Opioid receptor expression in the rat gastrointestinal tract: a quantitative study with comparison to the brain

The present study was undertaken to analyze the expression of two opioid receptor genes (mu and kappa) in different gastrointestinal regions of the rat. A combination of mRNA quantification and immunohistochemical visualization was used to characterize their expression. Using naive animals, RNA was extracted from tissues and used in RNase protection assays: both receptor mRNAs were expressed in all investigated areas but displayed different expression profiles across the various regions of the digestive tract. Stomach and proximal colon appeared to have the highest expression levels of both receptors, whereas the lowest expression levels were found in the duodenum. Expression levels for both receptors were always lower in the gastrointestinal tract compared to the brain. However, the kappa-receptor expression in the proximal colon represented 40% of the amount found in the brain, which is almost 4 times as high as the respective mu-receptor expression. In contrast to smooth muscle cells, myenteric plexus perikarya of the rat stomach and colon were immunoreactive with antibodies raised against the C-termini of both kappa- and mu-opioid receptors. Numerous nerve fibers were also immunoreactive for both mu- and kappa-receptors and distributed in the longitudinal and circular muscle layers. Small perikarya immunoreactive for mu-receptor were localized around the myenteric plexus and at the submucosal border of the circular muscle, whereas only few perikarya were immunoreactive for the kappa-receptor. We conclude that at least in rat stomach and colon, mu- and kappa-opioid receptors may directly control neuronal communication but seem to have no direct influence on smooth muscle cells.
Fatigue-resistant silicon films coated with nanoscale alumina layers

The fatigue properties of monocrystalline Si thin films coated with nanoscale alumina layers (ranging from 4.2 to 50 nm) are compared to those of uncoated Si films, in air at 30 °C, 50% relative humidity (RH) and 80 °C, 90% RH. The presence of alumina coatings results in more than two orders of magnitude longer fatigue lives, even though subcritical cracking of alumina occurs. The effects of the alumina coating thickness on the overall fatigue degradation behavior are discussed.
On energy functionals, Kahler-Einstein metrics, and the Moser-Trudinger-Onofri neighborhood

Abstract We prove that the existence of a Kahler–Einstein metric on a Fano manifold is equivalent to the properness of the energy functionals defined by Bando, Chen, Ding, Mabuchi and Tian on the set of Kahler metrics with positive Ricci curvature. We also prove that these energy functionals are bounded from below on this set if and only if one of them is. This answers two questions raised by X.-X. Chen. As an application, we obtain a new proof of the classical Moser–Trudinger–Onofri inequality on the two-sphere, as well as describe a canonical enlargement of the space of Kahler potentials on which this inequality holds on higher-dimensional Fano Kahler–Einstein manifolds.
The paramagnetic susceptibility of sodium metal

Abstract The remeasurement of the conduction electron spin susceptibility in sodium metal is reported. The result, χp = (1.13 ± 0.05) × 10−6 cgs volume units at 20°K, represents a substantial increase over the previously reported value. One major consequence of the remeasured value is that the conduction electron diamagnetism inferred from the present results combined with measurements of the total susceptibility is in substantial agreement with theoretical expectations. The present results, combined with the Knight shift, imply ξ = P A P F = 0.60 , which is somewhat smaller than calculated values. Measurements were also made at 77°K and 4.2°K, and the results are temperature independent within experimental error.
Implications of Hemispheric Function for the Effective Teaching of Motor Skills

To optimize the skill learning environment, a clear understanding of the brain's processing abilities and inabilities would seem critical. Present pedagogical literature that examines how to optimize brain functioning is scarce. However, neuropsychological research has examined hemispheric function for many years and has recently revealed important perceptual-motor processing advantages in the left and right hemispheres of the brain. This research has also consistently highlighted motor performance problems that may be predictable given an understanding of hemispheric specialization. This review therefore examines both the hemispheric specialization and motor performance literature in search of methodology to optimize hemispheric functioning in motor skill performance and learning. Applied research examining hemispheric function has so far focused on a simple verbal–nonverbal notion of hemispheric function. The limitations of this notion and the potential problems of biased teaching methodologies associat...
Nuggets of Practical Wisdom.

The authors offer a compilation of maxims, advice, and anecdotes that convey some essential truths they have learned about professional leadership in student affairs.
Localization of Thyrotropin-Releasing Factor (TRF) in the Hypothalamus of the Rat

The objective of this study was to obtain detailed information on the distribution of TRF activity in the hypothalamus and preoptic area of the rat. This was achieved by determining TRF activity in thin serial sections (200 μ to 600 μ) cut with a microtome from fresh, frozen hypothalami of normal rats along the frontal, horizontal and sagittal planes. The sections were individually extracted with 0.1 N HC1 and TRF activity of the individual extracts was determined from their effect on the release of radioimmunoassayable TSH from normal ral: pituitaries incubated in vitro. From recombination of the results obtained in all three planes, it appears that TRF activity is concentrated in three separate locations: in the median eminence, in the dorsomedial hypothalamus in an area quite closely corresponding to the dorsomedial hypothalamic nucleus, and in a more diffuse fashion in preoptic area corresponding approximately to the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis. It is assumed that the dorsomedial and preoptic ...
Correlations of Bridgman-Grown Cd0.9Zn0.1Te Properties with Different Ampoule Rotation Schemes

A unique ampoule rotation system was developed at the Center for Materials Research at Washington State University for enhancing convection in the cadmium zinc telluride (CZT) melt by applying different ampoule rotation schemes (RS). Experiments were performed with different initial charge material concentrations and rotation parameters (acceleration, speed, rotation time, etc.). The applied speed and acceleration ranged from 30 rpm to 50 rpm and 30 rpm2 to 200 rpm2, respectively. Zinc (Zn) distribution profiles of radial and axial slices from the same regions in the grown ingot were determined by room-temperature photoluminescence mapping. The results demonstrate the effects of ampoule rotation on Zn segregation and growth interface evolution. The most stable interface propagation was obtained when 0.2 atomic percent (at.%) excess tellurium (Te) was used in the initial charge material along with a trapezoidal RS. Uniform radial Zn distribution was achieved using triangular RS, which is because of the interface flatness near the axis. Comparison of secondary phase (SP) generation for different RS and initial excess Te was performed. Closed-container CZT growth was performed using the trapezoidal RS, which resulted in high single-crystal yield with lower-diameter SP near the last-to-freeze region. High-resistivity (on the order of 1010 Ω-cm) crystals were obtained from all the RS. The mobility–lifetime product (μτ)e of electrons for planar detectors was found to be on the order of 3 × 10−3 cm2/V to 5 × 10−3 cm2/V for all the RS with 3.5 at.% excess Te growths.
Resources to support the use of Java in introductory computer science

The growth in popularity of the object-oriented paradigm and the decision by the College Board to move the Advanced Placement Computer Science program to Java have led an increasing number of universities, colleges, and secondary schools to adopt Java as the programming language for their introductory computer science course. At the same time, many institutions find Java difficult to teach because of its significant detail complexity and its tendency to evolve rapidly over time. Such problems have led to periodic calls from within the computer science education community for the creation of simpler tools and a manageable Java subset specifically designed for presentation at the introductory level. Responding to this concern, the ACM Education Board has appointed a new task force whose mission is to develop an appropriate set of Java-based teaching resources that bears the endorsement of our professional society. The purpose of this special session is to introduce this task force to the SIGCSE community and to begin the discussions necessary to ensure that the deliverables produced by the task force will meet the needs of a wide range of institutions.
A spreadsheet-based biogeochemical model to simulate nutrient cycling processes in forest ecosystems

Abstract A Nutrient Cycling Spreadsheet (NuCSS) model was developed to simulate nutrient cycling in forest ecosystems. This model is intended to provide a tool for nutrient management and is intermediate in complexity between simple budget calculations and complex, process-based ecosystem models. NuCSS simulates biomass production, organic matter decomposition, N mineralization, cation adsorption, weathering and leaching (hydrology not included) using empirical relationships and simple mechanistic process descriptions. The model calculates a target biomass production and associated nutrient uptake. By reviewing soil nutrient pools the user can assess whether available soil nutrients can sustain the targeted biomass production. NuCSS was calibrated to a Norway spruce site in the Solling Mountains, Germany. The model performance was evaluated using long-term data on deposition, vegetation, water quality and soil nutrient inventories. Long-term predictions were made using a ‘business as usual’ and two reduced deposition scenarios. Results from NuCSS were compared with simulations from other biogeochemical models. The element distribution over soil, forest floor and vegetation closely matched measurements both after one and 15 years. Forest floor nutrients were underestimated but data on forest floor accumulation proved to be unreliable. NuCSS overestimated N uptake, N mineralization and leaching but not enough data on these fluxes were available to determine whether NuCSS was wrong. Simulated base cation leaching agreed well with the measurements but K leaching was overestimated most likely due to an underestimation of the selectivity coefficient for K adsorption. The reduced deposition scenarios caused N and base cation leaching to decrease with time. When N deposition was reduced by 95%, a N deficit occurred and N mineralization and deposition could not sustain the (fixed) uptake. For most simulated parameters NuCSS agreed well with more detailed, process-based, biogeochemical models. In general, NuCSS simulated a higher N leaching and N mineralization than most other models. Trends in base saturation and base cation leaching simulated by NuCSS agreed well with other models. The model proved to be helpful in addressing some of the uncertainties in nutrient cycling regarding vegetation uptake, weathering rates and N mineralization. Given the uncertainties in description of certain processes, a quantitative use of NuCSS may not be justified. These uncertainties also apply to more complex nutrient cycling models, however.
Use of computerized tomography to diagnose complications of percutaneous renal biopsy

Complications following percutaneous renal biopsy have been infrequent with a 0.7% reported incidence [1–3]. Recently, an analysis of 1,000 consecutive renal biopsies yielded an overall complication rate of 9.4% [4]. Complications considered included gross hematuria, perirenal hematoma, oliguric obstruction, or hypertension. Specifically, the incidence of perirenal hematomas in this report was only 1.4%.
Exploring the potential of stricter gun restrictions for people with serious mental illness to reduce homicide in the United States

This study explores the potential that current efforts to limit access to firearms for individuals with serious mental illness (SMI) have for reducing overall rates of murder by firearm in the United States. Official arrest, court and health records provided data on personal and offense characteristics of 95 individuals with SMI and 423 without, all of whom had been convicted of murder in the State of Indiana between 1990 and 2002. Bivariate analyses examined differences between the two groups and logistic regression models examined the relationship between SMI and offense characteristics. Compared to those without, a relatively small proportion of convicted murderers had a diagnosis indicating SMI. The presence of SMI was associated with reduced likelihood of targeting a stranger and was not associated with having multiple-victims or firearm use. Focusing on access to firearms exclusively by individuals with SMI will have little impact on multiple-victim or firearm-related homicides.
The relationship between risk networks' patterns of crack cocaine and alcohol consumption and HIV-related sexual behaviors among adult injection drug users: a prospective study

Abstract Social context may be an important determinant of drug and alcohol consumption and HIV-related behaviors. To assess the influence of peers on drug users' risk behaviors this study examined the association between individual level and group level behaviors. This analysis reports on the prospective association between baseline self-reported drug and alcohol use of the network members of injection drug users, and self-reported sexual behaviors and alcohol use at 5-month follow-up, Participants were a nontreatment sample of inner-city injection drug users who volunteered for a network-oriented HIV preventive intervention. They were predominately unemployed, African American males. Of the 71 index participants who completed both the baseline and follow-up interviews, 227 of their drug network members were enrolled in the study. At baseline indexes' sexual risk behaviors were significantly associated with their drug network members' level of crack cocaine use. At follow-up higher levels of alcohol and crack use among drug network members were associated with indexes' reports of multiple sex partners and increased alcohol consumption. Higher levels of crack use among the drug network members were associated with the indexes' reporting casual sex partners at follow-up. These results highlight the importance of studying the role of peer group influence and the social context of risk behaviors.
Beam electron microprobe

Abstract A beam profile monitor based on the deflection of a probe electron beam by the electric field of a stored, electron-cooled proton beam is described and first results are presented. Electrons were transported parallel to the proton beam by a uniform longitudinal magnetic field. The probe beam may be slowly scanned across the stored beam to determine its intensity, position, and size. Alternatively, it may be scanned rapidly over a narrow range within the interior of the stored beam for continuous observation of the changing central density during cooling. Examples of a two dimensional charge density profile obtained from a raster scan and of a cooling alignment study illustrate the scope of measurements made possible by this device.
An Investigation of Student Roles within Small, Racially Mixed Science Groups: A racial perspective

Achievement disparities among racial groups attest to the elusiveness of the ‘science for all’ goal, an emphasis of reform efforts in the USA. One popular approach to making science accessible to all is group work. The study investigated roles attained by five African American and six European‐American eighth graders working in small, racially mixed groups. What roles did the African‐American and European‐American students attain in the small, racially mixed science groups? Did race‐associated patterns of role attainment exist? If so, what was the nature of the patterns? Roles were derived and patterns examined via the qualitative and quantitative analyses of videotaped group interactions. The findings indicated that European‐Americans attained roles more frequently than their African‐American counterparts of comparable abilities and whiteness operated in the small groups. The findings imply racial inequities in group work and the need for teachers to consider race when employing it.
Advances in solvent-microextraction techniques

Abstract Since its inception in 1995, solvent-microextraction (SME) techniques for sample preparation have grown increasingly popular due to their simplicity, low cost, and adaptability to a wide variety of sample types and analytes. SME methods are used alone or as final clean-up and concentration techniques in preparing environmental, clinical, forensic, personal-care, pharmaceutical and food-product samples. There are two broad categories of SME: exposed-solvent and membrane-protected solvent techniques. The principal exposed-drop techniques include single-drop microextraction (SDME), headspace single-drop microextraction (HS-SDME), liquid-liquid microextraction (LLME), liquid-liquid-liquid microextraction (LLLME) and dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME). The principal membrane-protected modes are hollow-fiber-protected 2-phase microextraction [HF(2)ME] and hollow-fiber-protected 3-phase microextraction [HF(3)ME]. In recent years, interest in SME has increasingly turned to refinements of these modes for use in practical sample preparations. This has involved innovations (e.g., ionic liquids, ultrasonic-assisted emulsification, automation, and low-density solvents for DLLME). In this review, we explore these and other SME innovations appearing in the literature in the period from mid-2010 to mid-2012.
Ultrasonic periodontal probe

We have developed an ultrasonic technique for imaging periodontal structures which allows accurate measurements of disease activity without the need for ionizing radiography or manual periodontal probing. It promises reduced variability and improved ease of use, in comparison to conventional manual periodontal probing, and is the first step to establish the ultrasound periodontal probe as a clinically-valuable tool for patient assessment and the first non-invasive measure of periodontal disease activity. We have gathered data from cadaver samples using a prototype intra-oral ultrasound instrument, and have compared the ultrasound scans against conventional manual probing subsequently performed on the annotated cadaver samples.
Focal brain lesions and intelligence: A study with a new version of Raven's colored matrices

Contrasting results have been obtained in previous investigations, which have used the standard version of Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices for studying the effects of localized brain lesion on visual-spatial intelligence. Some of these discrepancies might be due to the fact that specific factors, such as unilateral spatial neglect, could contribute to decreased performance obtained on Raven's test by patients with focal brain lesions. A new set of Colored Matrices, devised to minimize the influence of unilateral spatial neglect without changing the essential features of the original task, was therefore constructed. The test was administered to 76 normal controls, 74 right brain-damaged patients, 87 aphasics, and 61 nonaphasic left brain-damaged patients, in order to study the effect of laterality of lesions and of language impairment on Raven's scores. The results show that, if the influence of unilateral spatial neglect is minimized and Raven's scores are corrected in reference to age, educational level, and lesion size, then: no significant differences are observed between right and left brain-damaged patients; aphasics score worse than nonaphasic left brain-damaged patients; impairment is greater in patients with Wernicke's and Global aphasia (i.e., in patients with severe language comprehension disorders) than in patients classified as Broca's, Anomic, or Conduction aphasia; impairment is greater in patients with semantic-lexical discrimination errors than in patients free from semantic-lexical comprehension disorders.
A guide to ethical issues and action research[1]

Abstract Traditional ‘human subjects’ reviews may not address the ethical issues that arise when practitioners study their own contexts. Guidelines for the outsider doing a classic experiment (random selection, control groups, removing the personal influence of the researcher) are either irrelevant or problematic for the teacher investigating her own classroom. In the same way, guidelines for the outsider doing qualitative research (anonymous informants, disguised settings) may subvert the value placed by ‘insider’ research on open communication with colleagues, students, and parents. Working with faculty at several universities and the area Writing Project, the author developed an alternative guide with questions suited to action research. The guide is intended as a heuristic rather than a document for institutional review. It can be discussed in teacher research groups or thesis advisory committees as a basis for ethical decision-making by people studying their own practice in K-12 or university settings.
Current‐phase relationship of granular NbN weak links, inferred from Josephson interferometer characteristics

Small‐area dc superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUID’s) were made using ultra‐short variable‐thickness microbridges of NbN. The bridges had an effective length of ∼500 A and a width of ∼1.5 μm. Analysis of the response to magnetic flux permits interferences to be drawn about the current‐phase relationship (CPR) of the bridges. Contrary to predictions of Ginzburg–Landau theory for microbridges of these dimensions, it is found that the CPR is single valued and probably close to ideal (sinusoidal) over a large temperature range (≳2.5 K). The discrepancy with theory may be due to the granular nature of the NbN films.
Role of mouth-to-mouth rescue breathing in bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation for asphyxial cardiac arrest

There is increasing evidence that mouth-to-mouth rescue breathing may not be necessary during brief periods of bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for ventricular fibrillation. In contrast to ventricular fibrillation cardiac arrests, it has been assumed that rescue breathing is essential for treatment of asphyxial cardiac arrests because the cardiac arrests result from inadequate ventilation. This review explores the role of mouth-to-mouth rescue breathing during bystander CPR for asphyxial cardiac arrests. Clinical data suggest that survival from apparent asphyxial cardiac arrest can occur after CPR consisting of chest compressions alone, without rescue breathing. Two randomized, controlled swine investigations using models of bystander CPR for asphyxial cardiac arrest establish the following: a) that prompt initiation of bystander CPR is a crucially important intervention; and b) that chest compressions plus mouth-to-mouth rescue breathing is markedly superior to either technique alone. One of these studies further demonstrates that early in the asphyxial pulseless arrest process doing something (mouth-to-mouth rescue breathing or chest compressions) is better than doing nothing.
Residues of Gardona in the body tissues of cattle sprayed to control Hypoderma spp.

After 0.125, 0.25, and 0.5® concentrations of Gardona® (2-chloro-1-(2,4,5-trichlorophenyl) vinyl dimethyl phosphate) were sprayed on cattle to control Hypoderma spp., the major portion of the small amount of residue was found in the fatty tissues. All traces were eliminated in 21 days or less.
Coefficients of pollution: Interindustry linkage and pollution in Belgium

The paper briefly develops an approach toward using pollution coefficients from one country as an expedience for applying an environmental economic analysis to a separate, but similar country for which hard data may not be available. The Coefficients are defined based upon information available from the Netherlands and the United States in combination with input-output data available for Belgium. A combination of the various data results in a crude estimate of the direct and indirect pollution generation per unit activity in different sectors on a country-wide basis.
Applying hybrid Kepso clustering to web pages

Various optimization methods are used along with the standard clustering algorithms to make the clustering process simpler and quicker. In this paper we propose a new hybrid technique of clustering known as K-Evolutionary Particle Swarm Optimization (KEPSO) based on the concept of Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO). The proposed algorithm uses the K-means algorithm as the first step and the Evolutionary Particle Swarm Optimization (EPSO) algorithm as the second step to perform clustering. The experiments were performed using the clustering benchmark data. This method was compared with the standard K-means and EPSO algorithms. The results show that this method produced compact results and performed faster than other clustering algorithms. Later, the algorithm was used to cluster web pages. The web pages were clustered by first cleaning the unnecessary data and then labeling the obtained web pages to categorize them.
Structural optimization by methods of feasible directions.

A general design algorithm based on methods of feasible directions is presented. Zoutendijk's method of feasible directions is first presented as applied to structural design. This method is modified to improve numerical stability of the design process and is then further modified to deal efficiently with infeasible designs. The algorithm requires the analytic gradient of the objective function and the constraint functions which are active at a given stage in the design process. Gradient information is not required for nonactive constraints. Complex constraint functions may be ignored in the initial design stages because violation of these constraints is efficiently overcome later in the design process. The algorithm is demonstrated with elastic design of redundant trusses.
Juniper Consumption Does Not Adversely Affect Meat Quality in Boer-Cross Goats

Abstract Goat browsing can be used as an alternative brush management option for redberry ( Juniperus pinchotii Sudw.) and ashe ( Juniperus asheii Buch) juniper instead of more expensive and invasive brush control methods, assuming consumption of juniper does not adversely affect the marketability of offspring. Some wildlife species reportedly retain juniper flavor when consumed. We determined if juniper consumption affected meat quality or flavoring of Boer-cross kid carcasses. Twenty recently weaned, Boer-cross wethers were randomly assigned to one of four treatments with treatments fed different amounts of juniper (0%, 10%, 20%, 30% juniper in the diet). All goats were fed juniper for 28 d at the Angelo State University (ASU) Management, Instruction, and Research Center. All goats were also fed a feedlot ration to meet maintenance requirements (2% body weight). Juniper intake varied ( P P > 0.05) among treatments. Sensory characteristics including tenderness, juiciness, flavor intensity, off-flavor, and overall acceptability were also similar ( P > 0.05) among treatments. Landowners can utilize goats as a biological management tool without adversely affecting goat meat quality or flavoring.
Competitive inhibition of the transport of nucleosides, hypoxanthine, choline and deoxyglucose by theophylline, papaverine and prostaglandins.

Summary Theophylline, papaverine and prostaglandins E 1 and F 2∝ competitively inhibit the transport of uridine, thymidine, hypoxanthine, choline and deoxyglucose by cultured Novikoff rat hepatoma cells. The transport processes are maximally inhibited immediately upon addition of the drugs and the effects are readily reversed by their removal.
Relationship of cardiovascular reactivity, stressful life events, and multiple sclerosis disease activity

Previous studies of stress in multiple sclerosis patients have suggested that life events may alter the onset and development of MS. However, results have been inconsistent because of infrequent monitoring and reporting bias. We followed fifty female MS patients for 1 year to determine characteristics of life events associated with MS exacerbations, and examine the influence of cardiovascular activity. Subjects completed weekly life-event checklists. The short- and long-term threat of each event was determined using the Life Events and Difficulties Schedule. Neurologic symptoms were also monitored weekly. MS exacerbations were confirmed by a neurologist blinded to psychosocial events. Cardiovascular reactivity to an acute psychological stressor was determined at study onset, and resting heart rate and blood pressure were monitored monthly. Forty-two percent of life events were associated with exacerbations in the subsequent 6 weeks. Logistic regression confirmed that exacerbations were more likely during at-risk periods following life events and were relatively independent of the threat level and type of stressor. Participants with higher cardiovascular reactivity to acute stress and higher baseline heart rate demonstrated a greater number of exacerbations and proportion of weeks ill. Using multiple regression, we found that disability level, medication usage, cardiovascular reactivity, baseline heart rate, and life event density explained approximately 30% of the variance in the proportion of weeks ill. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that stress is a potential trigger of MS disease activity and suggest that autonomic tone and stress reactivity may play a role in the development of stress-related exacerbations.
Field observations and feeding experiments on the responses of rufous‐tailed jacamars (Galbula ruficauda) to free‐flying butterflies in a tropical rainforest

Wild rufous-tailed jacamars (Galbula ruficauda) were shown to prey frequently, but selectively, upon butterflies in a Costa Rican rainforest. Two individually caged birds (a male and a female) were further tested with over 1000 butterflies of 114 morphs. Both wild jacamars and the two captive individuals were able to capture and handle all kinds and sizes of local butterflies. These butterflies (and other winged insects) were recognized by the jacamars as prey only through their movement. The captive birds discriminated between an unacceptable group of butterflies, which generally fly slowly or regularly, are warningly coloured and mimetic, with transparent, or white, orange, red, and/or black coloration, and an acceptable group that generally fly fast or erratically, are cryptic (on one or both sides), and have yellow, orange, green, blue, and/or brown coloration. These different morphological and behavioural characteristics of butterflies presumably helped the jacamars to assess their palatability. Most individuals of unacceptable butterflies (e.g. Battus and Parides (Papilionidae), some Pieridae, Diaethria and Callicore (Nymphalinae), Heliconiinae, Acraeinae, Ithomiidae, and Danaidae) were sight-rejected by the male jacamar (Jacamar 2), and many of the same were also sight-rejected by the female (Jacamar 1). In cases when the above butterflies were attacked, they were quickly released and usually unharmed. The captive female bird, after long periods without food, consumed many pierid and heliconiine butterflies that were consistently rejected by the male for their distasteful and dangerous qualities. In contrast, palatable butterflies (e.g. Papilio, Charaxinae, most Nymphalinae, Morpho, Brassolinae, and Satyrinae) were usually quickly attacked and consumed. The captive jacamars were able to discriminate between the very similar colour patterns of some Batesian mimics and their models, and could memorize the palatability of a large variety of butterflies. The discriminatory abilities of specialized insectivorous birds such as jacamars are likely to play a major role in the evolution of neotropical butterfly mimicry.
Interferon γ-dependent Induction of Human Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1 Gene Expression Involves Activation of a Distinct STAT Protein Complex

In response to interferon gamma (IFNgamma), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) is expressed on human keratinocytes, a cell type that is critically involved in cutaneous inflammation. An ICAM-1 5' regulatory region palindromic response element, pIgammaRE, has been shown to confer IFNgamma-dependent transcription enhancement. By electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA), pIgammaRE forms a distinct complex with proteins from IFNgamma-treated human keratinocytes, termed gamma response factor (GRF). Binding of GRF is tyrosine phosphorylation-dependent, and mutations of pIgammaRE that disrupt the palindromic sequence or alter its spatial relationship abrogate GRF binding. Supershift EMSAs using antibodies to characterized STAT proteins suggest that GRF contains a Stat1alpha-like protein; however, non-ICAM-1 IFNgamma-responsive elements (REs) known to bind Stat1alpha homodimers fail to compete for GRF binding in EMSA, and pIgammaRE does not cross-compete with these REs that complex with homodimeric stat1alpha. The pIgammaRE x GRF complex also displays a distinctly different electrophoretic mobility compared to that of IFNgammaREs complexed to homodimeric Stat1alpha. These findings indicate that a distinct complex containing a Stat1alpha-like protein mediates IFNgamma-induced ICAM-1 gene transcription and identifies a subset of IFNgamma-responsive genes that appear to be regulated by this complex.
Intradimensional vs. extradimensional transfer in the discriminative learning of goldfish and pigeons.

Evidence of better intradimensional than extradimensional transfer was sought in naive goldfish trained under free-operant single-stimulus conditions (Experiment I), sophisticated pigeons trained under free-operant single-stimulus conditions (Experiment II), sophisticated pigeons trained under discrete-trials choice conditions (Experiment III), and naive pigeons trained under discrete-trials choice conditions (Experiment IV). The results provide no support for attention theory.
The Legacy of Nat Sternberg: The Genesis of Cre-lox Technology

Cre-lox of bacteriophage P1 has become one of the most widely used tools for genetic engineering in eukaryotes. The origins of this tool date to more than 30 years ago when Nat L. Sternberg discovered the recombinase, Cre, and its specific locus of crossover, lox, while studying the maintenance of bacteriophage P1 as a stable plasmid. Recombinations mediated by Cre assist in cyclization of the DNA of infecting phage and in resolution of prophage multimers created by generalized recombination. Early in vitro work demonstrated that, although it shares similarities with the well-characterized bacteriophage λ integration, Cre-lox is in many ways far simpler in its requirements for carrying out recombination. These features would prove critical for its development as a powerful and versatile tool in genetic engineering. We review the history of the discovery and characterization of Cre-lox and touch upon the present direction of Cre-lox research.
Improving the interpretation of ‘less than’ values in environmental monitoring

This paper reviews the approaches used to deal with the interpretation of measurements reported as ‘less than’ a stated reporting limit. The principal current methodologies are examined and their shortcomings discussed. Recent key papers on the subject are summarised. It is concluded that lack of easy-to-use alternative methods have led to the continued use of substitution methods that are acknowledged to be biased. With the aim of promoting a more technically sound approach to dealing with ‘less than’ data, a supplementary spreadsheet tool is supplied to provide the reader with ready introductory access to a simple way to apply maximum likelihood methods. Recommendations and simple guidelines for better practice are provided.