cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Retinal Ganglion Cell Transportome Identifies Proteins Transported to Axons and Presynaptic Compartments in the Visual System In Vivo.

Summary The brain processes information and generates cognitive and motor outputs through functions of spatially organized proteins in different types of neurons. More complete knowledge of proteins and their distributions within neuronal compartments in intact circuits would help in the understanding of brain function. We used unbiased in vivo protein labeling with intravitreal NHS-biotin for discovery and analysis of endogenous axonally transported proteins in the visual system using tandem mass spectrometric proteomics, biochemistry, and both light and electron microscopy. Purification and proteomic analysis of biotinylated peptides identified ∼1,000 proteins transported from retinal ganglion cells into the optic nerve and ∼575 biotinylated proteins recovered from presynaptic compartments of lateral geniculate nucleus and superior colliculus. Approximately 360 biotinylated proteins were differentially detected in the two retinal targets. This study characterizes axonally transported proteins in the healthy adult visual system by analyzing proteomes from multiple compartments of retinal ganglion cell projections in the intact brain.
Pairing: Privately Balancing Multiparty Real-Time Supply and Demand on the Power Grid

Microgrids equipped with renewable energy resources have proven to be critical building blocks on the power grid that can greatly improve the grid performance. A promising application would be enabling microgrids to utilize their local energy for further balancing the regional supply and demand at different times – ensuring better system economics and reliability. However, due to the privacy concerns on continuously revealing each microgrid’s local data for deriving real-time optimal balancing decisions, the application of such promising cooperative technique is still limited. In this paper, we design an efficient cryptographic protocol for privately balancing the regional supply and demand, as well as each microgrid’s local supply and demand in real time. We prove the security of our protocol against both passive and active adversaries. Meanwhile, we implemented a prototype of the Pairing system that integrates cryptographic protocol and the power transmission network. We mount the real smart grid datasets into Pairing in real time for system evaluations. The experimental results demonstrate the practicality of our system by scaling to hundreds of microgrids with high accuracy and efficient system performance.
Retrieval of Subsurface Properties of Layered Dielectric Structures Using Hybrid Global and Local Optimization

In this paper, we present an inversion scheme to retrieve subsurface properties of layered dielectric structures with random slightly rough interfaces. We use the small perturbation method in the forward model. To solve the inverse-scattering problem, we utilize a novel global optimization technique, which takes advantage of the speed of local optimization while ensuring convergence to a global minimum. More specifically, by modifying the perturbation scheme in the simulated annealing method using a non-linear simplex search algorithm, we enhance the performance of global search by choosing effective perturbation directions. We have demonstrated the strength of the method in solving the inverse-scatting problems by some numerical results.
Assignments of Pavement Treatment Options: Genetic Algorithms versus Mixed-Integer Programming

AbstractAssigning specific maintenance treatments is an important process in a pavement management system (PMS). A decision-making method to support this process should be based on an objective of ...
Auto-inhibitory regulation of DNA binding by the C-terminal tails of the mitochondrial transcription factors Mtf1 and TFB2M

ABSTRACT The structurally homologous Mtf1 and TFB2M proteins serve as transcription initiation factors of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae and human mitochondrial RNA polymerases, respectively. These transcription factors directly interact with the non-template strand of the transcription bubble to drive promoter melting. Given the key roles of Mtf1 and TFB2M in promoter-specific transcription initiation, it is expected that the DNA binding activity of the mitochondrial transcription factors would be regulated to prevent DNA binding at inappropriate times. However, there is little information on how mitochondrial DNA transcription is regulated. While studying the C-tail deletion mutants of Mtf1 and TFB2M, we stumbled upon a new finding that suggested that the flexible C-tail region of these factors autoregulates their DNA binding activity. Quantitative DNA binding studies with fluorescence anisotropy-based titrations show that Mtf1 with an intact C-tail has no affinity for the DNA but the deletion of C-tail greatly increases the DNA binding affinity. Similar observations were made with TFB2M, although autoinhibition by the C-tail of TFB2M was not as absolute as in Mtf1. Analysis of available TFB2M structures show that the C-tail makes intramolecular interactions with the DNA binding groove in the free factor, which we propose masks the DNA binding activity. Further studies show that the RNA polymerase relieves autoinhibition by interacting with the C-tail and engaging it in complex formation. Thus, our biochemical and structural analysis identify previously unknown autoinhibitory and activation mechanisms of mitochondrial transcription factors that regulate the DNA binding activity and aid in specific assembly of the initiation complexes.
Challenges in learning aerobic and anaerobic concepts: an interpretative understanding from the cognitive load theory perspective

Purpose: It has been acknowledged in physical education (PE) that knowledge empowers learners to develop a physically active lifestyle In this study, we consider Cognitive Load Theory (CLT) as a va...
Lithium niobate photonic devices

Lithium niobate (LN) is a well-known material extensively used for optical modulators, thanks to its large electro-optic coefficient. The advancement of thin-film LN technology has sparked tremendous interest in the field of integrated optics. The capability of co-integration ultralow loss monolithic optical waveguides with highly efficient microwave control could enable next-generation, completely novel electro-optic and nonlinear photonic devices with advanced functionalities in a small footprint. Here, we discuss the recent development of electro-optic frequency shifters and beamsplitters, acousto-optic modulators, and electro-optic frequency combs, powered by integrated LN photonics.
Between you and me: The effects of content ephemerality and the role of social value orientation in luxury brands’ social media communication

Grounded on commodity theory, this study examines the effects of content ephemerality on the perceived feeling of exclusivity in luxury brands’ social media communication. This study also investiga...
Estimating California's Solar and Wind Energy Production using Computer Vision Deep Learning Techniques on Weather Images

In pursuit of a novel forecasting strategy for the energy market, we propose a ResNet-inspired model which estimates solar and wind energy production using weather images. The model is designed to capture high-frequency details while producing realistically smooth energy production profiles. To this end, we show the value of including multiple weather images from times preceding the estimation time, and demonstrate that the model outperforms traditional deep learning techniques and alternative state-of-the-art computer vision methods. Training and testing are performed on a novel data set that focuses on the state of California and spans the year 2019. The dataset, which is sourced from NOAA and CAISO, is a secondary contribution of this work. Finally, multiple topics in line with the motivation are proposed for future work.
Introgression shapes fruit color convergence in invasive Galápagos tomato.

Invasive species represent one of the foremost risks to global biodiversity. Here, we use population genomics to evaluate the history and consequences of an invasion of wild tomato-Solanum pimpinellifolium-onto the Galapagos islands from continental South America. Using >300 archipelago and mainland collections, we infer this invasion was recent and largely the result of a single event from central Ecuador. Patterns of ancestry within the genomes of invasive plants also reveal post-colonization hybridization and introgression between S. pimpinellifolium and the closely related Galapagos endemic Solanum cheesmaniae. Of admixed invasive individuals, those that carry endemic alleles at one of two different carotenoid biosynthesis loci also have orange fruits-characteristic of the endemic species-instead of typical red S. pimpinellifolium fruits. We infer that introgression of two independent fruit color loci explains this observed trait convergence, suggesting that selection has favored repeated transitions of red to orange fruits on the Galapagos.
Optimization of Camera-Trap Surveys for Eastern Spotted Skunks and Other Meso-Mammals in the Appalachian Foothills

We conducted baited camera-trap surveys in eastern Kentucky during October 2017–April 2018 to assess the efficacy of survey duration and attractant type in detecting Spilogale putorius (Eastern Spotted Skunk) and other Appalachian meso-mammals. We surveyed 16 sites across 10 counties over more than 1200 trap-nights. We observed meso-mammals of 9 species, including 3 records of Eastern Spotted Skunks. Our results indicated that a 2-week survey duration with sardine bait yielded meso-mammal detection rates, richness estimates, and species accumulation curves comparable to a 4-week survey duration with sardine bait; the addition of fatty acid scent tablets did not affect results. However, Eastern Spotted Skunks were not recorded until an average of 15 days after deployment, suggesting that species-specific trapping rates must be considered in the duration of camera-trap surveys.
Pain relief with elastic therapeutic taping.

Background and purpose Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) occurs in 19%–85% of patients undergoing cancer treatment. Due to the high symptom burden, specifically pain in the soles of feet, we explore the role of elastic therapeutic (ET) taping for treatment of CIPN. Case description We report two cases of patients with CIPN-induced foot pain while admitted to the hospital. Their background information, including chemotherapy history, treatments trialed and effects of ET on their pain, is discussed. Each patient underwent ET using the epidermis, dermis, fascia technique for CIPN. An occupational therapist applied ET to the plantar surface of both feet to the ankle with 0% stretch on the tape for 24–96 hours. We also showed the effect of symptom improvement in their individualized rehabilitation session following application of ET. Outcomes Pain score, verbally documented by 10 point numerical pain rating scale, decreased by >50% in both patients within 24 hours of application. This reflects a substantial improvement in pain with the intervention of ET. This allowed for improved tolerance in engaging in functional mobility, with improvement in distances ambulated. Discussion ET taping of the distal leg and foot showed pain improvement for these two patients. Our findings suggest that a clinical trial aimed at better characterising the role of ET in these patients is justified.
Cryobiology of tissues

There is considerable interest in the transplantation of mammalian tissues for the treatment of disease states and trauma and the correction of tissue malfunction. The logistics of tissue procurement for transplantation are such that some method of tissue preservation is highly desirable. To date, the most common method of preservation has been hypothermic storage, either cold storage above freezing (usually 4 °C) or else cryopreservation and storage in the frozen state (usually — 70 °C to — 196 °C). The advantage of hypothermic storage in the unfrozen state is that ice damage is avoided, but the disadvantage is that there is a limited storage duration of about 1 week or less (11, 19). The advantage of cryopreservation is that truly long-term preservation ranging from months to years can be obtained, while the disadvantage is in the lack of a complete understanding of the mechanism of cryoinjury, so that cryopreservation produces significant damage as a result of ice formation during the freezing process. Nevertheless, cryopreservation has decided advantages over refrigerated storage provided that effective methodologies can be developed for the specific tissue under consideration.
Plasma antithrombin III activity: An aid in the diagnosis of preeclampsia-eclampsia

Plasma antithrombin III (AT III) activity was examined retrospectively in patients with preeclampsia-eclampsia, chronic hypertension, and chronic hypertension with superimposed preeclampsia-eclampsia. Levels of AT III were greater than 1 SD below normal pregnant control in each case of preeclampsia-eclampsia syndrome. The degree of reduction in plasma AT III activity was correlated with the severity of disease. AT III activity was within normal limits in patients with chronic hypertension. AT III activity dropped prior to the appearance of clinically evident disease in three patients who were followed from an early gestational age. In no instance was low plasma AT III activity associated with normal pregnancy. Coincidental disease, including pyelonephritis and a viral syndrome, were associated with markedly decreased levels of plasma AT III activity in otherwise normal pregnancies. Plasma AT III activity may be valuable as a tool in diagnosing preeclampsia-eclampsia, as a screening test for preclinical preeclampsia-eclampsia, and as an indicator of severity of disease.
Spreadsheet Modeling for Operations Research Practice

This article presents the essential information for operations research practitioners to use spreadsheets to enhance their practice. We provide examples of high impact operations research models implemented in a spreadsheet. We discuss the characteristics of the spreadsheet as a programming language, provide an overview of spreadsheet engineering principles, and a summary of the research on spreadsheet errors, emphasizing that practitioners with the sophistication to code in traditional languages can code complex models in a spreadsheet, provided they approach the task with equivalent diligence. We present four approaches to using spreadsheets in operations research practice. There is a rich set of add-ins that implement operations research techniques in a spreadsheet, such as Monte Carlo simulation, optimization (including very large and challenging models), statistics and other data-driven techniques, business function-specific analysis, as well as productivity tools for spreadsheet developers. Keywords: spreadsheets; Excel; spreadsheet engineering; modeling; practice
Excimer Retreatment for Myopic Photorefractive Keratectomy Failures: Six- to 18-month Follow-up

Purpose: To study the results of retreatment after myopic photorefractive keratectomy in 22 patients. Five patients showed regression and 17 showed undercorrection combined with regression. The follow-up was 6 to 18 months. Methods: A laser was used with a fluence of 160 mJ/cm 2 at a frequency of 5 Hz. The same nomogram used for the initial treatment was used for the retreatment. No nitrogen purge was used. Fluorometholone 0.1% four times daily tapered over 4 months was applied postoperatively except in five patients. Results: There was no untoward effect in any patient who had retreatment. The mean preoperative spherical equivalent before retreatment was −2.61 ± 1.62 diopters (D) (range, - 1.00 to −6.63 D). After 1 year, the mean spherical equivalent was −0.84 ± 1.22 D (range, 0.00 to −4.88 D) and at 18 months it was −1.31 ± 1.60 D (range, 0.00 to −5.13 D). Spherical equivalent was ±1 D in 82% of patients at 1 year and in 67% at 18 months. Uncorrected visual acuity was 20/40 or better at 1 year in 77% of patients and 20/20 or better in 55%; at 18 months, it was 20/40 or better in 67%. Conclusion: Retreatment may be considered for undercorrection and/or regression in photorefractive keratectomy. No complications were observed, and there is appreciable improvement in the final results. The refraction 6 months after retreatment is stable with no statistically significant change from 6 to 12 months (Student's t = 0.51; P = 0.62) and 6 to 18 months (Student's t = 1.01; P = 0.33).
Private Security and the Law

Private Security and the Law, 4th Edition, is a unique resource that provides analysis of practices in the security industry as they relate to law, regulation, licensure, and constitutional questions of case and statutory authority.?This book?describes the legal requirements faced?in the area of private security.?It emphasizes the liability problems common to security operations, including negligence and tortious liability, civil actions frequently litigated, and strategies to avoid legal actions that affect business efficiency.?The text?also examines the constitutional and due-process dimensions of private security both domestically and internationally, including recent cases and trends that will set pace for future private security laws and regulations. As private security becomes more closely involved in national and international security, cases like Blackwater are examined. Charles Nemeth takes?you step by step through the analysis of case law as it applies to situations commonly faced in the private security practice, providing a solid introduction to the legal and ethical standards that shape the industry. *Authoritative, scholarly treatise sheds light on this increasingly important area of the law *Historical background helps readers understand the present by seeing the full context of recent developments *National scope provides crucial parameters to security practitioners throughout the US *NEW TO THIS EDITION! A chapter on the legal implications of private contractors operating in war zones like Afghanistan, updated coverage of statutory authority, updated coverage of state and federal processes of oversight and licensure, special analysis of public-private cooperative relationships in law enforcement Table of Contents Chapter 1: Historical Foundations of Private Security Chapter 2: Regulation, Licensing, Education, and Training: The Path to Professionalism in the Security Industry Chapter 3: The Law of Arrest, Search, and Seizure: Applications in the Private Sector Chapter 4: Civil Liability of Security Personnel Chapter 5: Criminal Liability of Security Personnel Chapter 6: The Enforcement of Laws and the Collection, Preservation and Interpretation of Evidence Chapter 7: Public and Private Law Enforcement: A Blueprint for Cooperation Chapter 8: Selected Case Readings Appendix 1 - Florida Statutes Appendix 2 - List of Associations and Groups Appendix 3 - Sample Forms Appendix 4 - The Law Enforcement-Private Security Consortium, Operation Partnership: Trends and Practices in Law Enforcement and Private Security Collaborations 119-122 (2005).
Continuous versus discrete dimensions of reinforcement schedules: An integrative analysis

An approach to reinforcement-schedule contingencies is presented that accommodates continuous as well as discrete effective dimensions of responses and reinforcers. College students' wheel turning was reinforced by projected reading material according to four schedule contingencies that incorporated either a discontinuous (count) or continuous (duration) dimension of the response and the reinforcer. The contingencies arranged a 1:1 correspondence between (a) response count and consequent stimulus count, (b) response duration and stimulus count, (c) response count and stimulus duration, and (d) response duration and stimulus duration. Contingencies incorporating response count produced moderate to high rates of very short-duration responses. Contingencies incorporating response duration produced very low-rate, long-duration responding. The dimension of the reinforcer had minimal or no additional effect. We suggest that incorporating duration and other continuous dimensions into schedule contingencies may improve our understanding of both laboratory and nonlaboratory behavior.
Embracing agile development of usable software systems

The interdisciplinary nature of system design can lead to communication problems between developers in different fields. This is becoming evident in the emerging field of agile software development which has largely ignored or been unable to address usability. This work presents a development process and toolset that draws on extreme programming--an agile software development process, and scenario-based design--a usability engineering process. This approach will allow developers in both fields to better communicate and work together to efficiently design usable systems.
Conceptualizing social science paradoxes using the diversity and similarity curves model: Illustrations from the work/play and theory novelty/continuity paradoxes

A major challenge that social science researchers face is the development of a framework that conceptualizes paradoxical concepts across different social science disciplines. We propose that researchers use the logic of the diversity and similarity curves (DSC) model to meet this need by conceptualizing the tension, reinforcing cycles, and paradox management elements of Lewis (Academy of Management Review, 2000, 25, 760-76). We further make a contribution to the paradox literature by highlighting and representing the interwoven nature of dual tensions that exist within paradoxical phenomena. We use the DSC model to capture the interactive effects of dual paradoxes associated with work/play and job stress/task creativity. The DSC model also allows us to represent the interactive effects of different permutations of theory novelty/continuity on perceived theory complexity and theory assimilation. Finally, we discuss the implications of this article for theory and research on paradox conceptualization.
Time-space trade-off lower bounds for randomized computation of decision problems

We prove the first time-space lower bound trade-offs for randomized computation of decision problems. The bounds hold even in the case that the computation is allowed to have arbitrary probability of error on a small fraction of inputs. Our techniques are extension of those used by Ajtai and by Beame, Jayram, and Saks that applied to deterministic branching programs. Our results also give a quantitative improvement over the previous results.Previous time-space trade-off results for decision problems can be divided naturally into results for functions with Boolean domain, that is, each input variable is {0,1}-valued, and the case of large domain, where each input variable takes on values from a set whose size grows with the number of variables.In the case of Boolean domain, Ajtai exhibited an explicit class of functions, and proved that any deterministic Boolean branching program or RAM using space S = o(n) requires superlinear time T to compute them. The functional form of the superlinear bound is not given in his paper, but optimizing the parameters in his arguments gives T = Ω(n log log n/log log log n) for S = O(n1-ϵ). For the same functions considered by Ajtai, we prove a time-space trade-off (for randomized branching programs with error) of the form T = Ω(n √ log(n/S)/log log (n/S)). In particular, for space O(n1-ϵ), this improves the lower bound on time to Ω(n√ log n/log log n).In the large domain case, we prove lower bounds of the form T = Ω(n√ log(n/S)/log log (n/S)) for randomized computation of the element distinctness function and lower bounds of the form T = Ω(n log (n/S)) for randomized computation of Ajtai's Hamming closeness problem and of certain functions associated with quadratic forms over large fields.
The Rising Hegemony of Mass Opinion

The Founding Fathers warned about the dangers of an “excess of democracy” and designed the Constitution in large part with a view toward preventing it. Judging from most commentary on American politics, with respect to most of the intervening two hundred years, they need't have worried: The mass public has only occasionally been a dominant force in national policy making. Elites, although often responding to broad public concerns, have usually defined the specific directions of policy change.
Dynamic flow rates of granular particles

Abstract Flow rates ( W ) of powder and granules are usually measured by letting the particulate solid pass through a stationary orifice. This is not a physical duplication of the event in, for instance, a rotary tablet machine, where the dies move in relation to the powder bed. An apparatus is described by which dynamic flow rates ( i.e. flow into a moving orifice) can be measured. These dynamic flow rates ( W 2 g/sec) differ from static flow rates. They are subject to the same dependence on particle diameter, d , as static flow rate, i.e. : W 2 − W m = − k ( d − d m ) s , where “m” refers to maximum and k and s are constants. They also exhibit the same type dependence on orifice opening ( P cm) as static flow rates, i.e. W 2 = qP n , where q and n are constants. The values for n are 3 – 3.25, which is somewhat higher than for static flow where n = 2.3 – 2.6.
Hypertonic induction of aquaporin-5 expression through an ERK-dependent pathway

Aquaporin-5 (AQP5) is a water channel protein expressed in lung, salivary gland, and lacrimal gland epithelia. Each of these sites may experience fluctuations in surface liquid osmolarity; however, osmotic regulation of AQP5 expression has not been reported. This study demonstrates that AQP5 is induced by hypertonic stress and that induction requires activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). Incubation of mouse lung epithelial cells (MLE-15) in hypertonic medium produced a dose-dependent increase in AQP5 expression; AQP5 protein peaked by 24 h and returned to baseline levels within hours of returning cells to isotonic medium. AQP5 induction was observed only with relatively impermeable solutes, suggesting an osmotic pressure gradient is required for induction. ERK was selectively activated in MLE-15 cells by hypertonic stress, and inhibition of ERK activation with two distinct mitogen-activated extracellular regulated kinase kinase (MEK) inhibitors, U0126 and PD98059, blocked AQP5 induction. AQP5 induction was also observed in the lung, salivary, and lacrimal glands of hyperosmolar rats, suggesting potential physiologic relevance for osmotic regulation of AQP5 expression. This report provides the first example of hypertonic induction of an extrarenal aquaporin, as well as the first association between mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling and aquaporin expression.
Establishment of conditioned taste aversions with a 24-hour CS-US interval

Two experiments were conducted investigating the effects of a 24-h CS-US interval in taste aversion learning. In the first experiment, male albino rats were allowed to consume a nonpreferred CS (HCL-flavored water) and injected, intraperitoneally, 24 h later with an illness-inducing drug (cyclophosphamide). After two such pairings, the animals exhibited an aversion to the flavored water. In Experiment II, female rats were exposed to the same US 24 h following consumption of a preferred CS (saccharin-flavored water). However, after only one such pairing, experimental Ss avoided the flavored water and preferred normal tap water in a two-bottle choice situation, while saline-injected controls preferred the saccharin-flavored water to the plain tap water. Due to the controversial nature of conditioning with such long delays of reinforcement, a systematic replication of Experiment II was conducted with male rats, and again an aversion was established to the saccharin-flavored water.
Collective Excitations in the Theory of Superconductivity

The complex dielectric constant of a superconductor and the Meissner effect are derived in a manner which is gauge invariant, from the theory of superconductivity due to Bardeen, Cooper, and Schrieffer. The collective excitations are important in maintaining gauge invariance; the longitudinal collective excitations ensure that a static vector potential produces no longitudinal current and the transverse collective excitations contribute to the Meissner current an amount which depends on the angular properties of the two-body interaction. This contribution is estimated to be small. An earlier calculation of ultrasonic absorption in superconductors is justified. The whole investigation is based upon the generalized random-phase approximation introduced by Anderson and applies whether or not the Coulomb interaction between the electrons is taken into account. The equations of motion are linearized in such a way that the exchange terms are automatically screened if the Coulomb interaction is, in fact, taken into account. The region of applicability of most of the results is limited by the approximations to temperatures at or near absolute zero.
The AAPM/RSNA physics tutorial for residents. Physics of PET.

Positron emission tomography (PET) is a coalition of physics, chemistry, physiology, and medicine united in an effort to measure physiologic parameters noninvasively. A PET study consists of producing radiotracers, synthesizing radiopharmaceuticals from the tracers, administering the radiopharmaceutical to a patient, measuring the resulting radioactivity distribution in an organ of interest, and interpreting the activity distribution as a function of physiologic parameters. Radiotracers are produced with medical accelerators that are characterized by the amount of time required to produce a set amount of radiotracer. Radiopharmaceutical production requires automated or remote synthesis modules that are characterized by their efficiency for incorporating the radiotracer into a radiopharmaceutical and the length of time and amount of human interaction required. Imaging protocols must consider sources of image artifacts, the method by which the images will be analyzed, and the uncertainty in the final result...
Microscopic deformation mechanisms associated with mica film formation in cleaved psammitic rocks

Abstract At Islesboro, Maine, cleavage is well developed in low greenschist-facies siltstones and interbedded pelites of early Paleozoic age. The siltstones contain a spatial sequence of mica film structures that corresponds to increasing intensity of mesoscopic cleavage. In the most weakly foliated rocks, cleavage is defined by the preferred orientation of individual mica particles. In siltstones displaying slightly higher strain, these particles are accompanied by short, discontinuous mica film segments, thought to have formed by the recrystallization of early pore-space layer silicates. In moderately cleaved rocks, these segments link up to form lengthened mica films by a process thought to include intergranular fracture, transgranular fracture and layer silicate crystallization. In strongly cleaved rocks, the lengthened mica films become longer and thicken appreciably by solution transfer of quartz and residual accumulation of layer silicates and opaque minerals. Layer silicate crystallization is evident at all stages of mica film development, but is especially marked by the growth of decussate mica inside late-stage, thick mica-rich layers. This sequence of mica film development is probably characteristic of fine-grained psammitic rocks, and may not necessarily occur in carbonate-rich or mica-rich rocks.
Wait time and satisfaction with care and service at a nurse practitioner managed clinic.

Purpose To examine the relationships among the various times patients wait for health care and patient satisfaction with nurse practitioner (NP) care and the service component of care in a NP developed and managed clinic. Data Sources Fortyseven patients (78% response rate) responded anonymously to a 15-item questionnaire that measured satisfaction with NP care and an additional 15 items that measured satisfaction with the service component of care. Actual clock times were recorded on a flow sheet that corresponded to the system of care at this clinic. Conclusions Using Pearson Product-Moment Correlation, there were no statistically significant relationships among various wait times and the measures of satisfaction. Implications for Practice Patient satisfaction with NP care is an important indicator of quality of care. Although satisfaction was not related to wait times, NPs must be respectful of the amount of time that patients wait for health care.
Efficient directional cloning of recombinant adenovirus vectors using DNA-protein complex.

We describe an efficient cloning system utilizing adenoviral DNA-protein complexes which allows the directional cloning of genes into adenoviral expression vectors in a single step. DNA-protein complexes derived from a recombinant adenovirus (AVC2.null) were isolated by sequential use of CsCl step gradients followed by isopycnic centrifugation in a mixture of CsCl and guanidine HCl. AVC2.null is an adenoviral expression vector containing unique restriction sites between the human CMV-IE promoter and the SV40 intron/polyadenylation site. Transgenes were prepared for cloning into this vector by introduction of compatible restriction sites by PCR. A vector expressing rat granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) was constructed using DNA-protein complex as well as by traditional recombination techniques. The efficacy of our adenoviral cloning system utilizing DNA-protein complex was two logs higher than that seen using homologous recombination. All viruses generated by directional ligation of the insert into the vector DNA-protein complexes contained the desired transgene in the correct orientation. This technique greatly simplifies and accelerates the generation of recombinant adenoviral vectors.
THE USE OF LIVER TRANSPLANT TECHNIQUES TO AID IN THE SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF UROLOGICAL TUMORS

Purpose: Inferior vena cava tumor thrombus complicates radical nephrectomy. Various approaches have been used to deal with this problem, including venovenous and cardiopulmonary bypass. Applying organ transplant techniques enhances the exposure of urological tumors and may avoid bypass.Materials and Methods: A total of 26 patients underwent surgery by techniques developed to facilitate orthotopic liver transplantation. Of the patients 15 with renal cell carcinoma and an intracaval tumor thrombus underwent piggyback style mobilization of the liver off of the retrohepatic inferior vena cava to allow enhanced access and vascular control, while 11 underwent conventional mobilization of the liver and retrohepatic inferior vena cava en bloc to allow enhanced access to various renal, adrenal and retroperitoneal tumors.Results: In the 11 patients surgery was successful with a median blood loss of 200 ml. Postoperative ileus in 1 case was the only complication. We resected 5 infrahepatic thrombi without complicati...
A genetic analysis of variation for the ability to fly after exposure to thermal stress in Drosophila mojavensis

Abstract To help us understand how adaptive tolerance to heat stress has evolved, we made F 1 hybrid crosses and backcrosses amongst populations of Drosophila mojavensis , and tested their ability to fly after exposure to a debilitating, but non-lethal, heat stress. Previous work identified that these populations vary in thermotolerance as measured for a variety of traits. Hybrid superiority was observed when crossing all four pairs of strains. Patterns of inheritance in flight ability after stress varied depending on which strains were used to set up complete reciprocal backcrosses, and, for both population pairs, results supported a multigenic model. This quantitative inheritance may be an outcome of the many different physiological and biochemical systems recently shown to influence muscle activity during heat stress. Therefore, the ability to maintain flight in the presence of high temperatures has the potential to vary considerably among populations in nature. As effects occur at temperatures well below those causing mortality, variation in this trait may greatly impact organismal fitness.
Clozapine inhibits micturition parameters and the external urethral sphincter during cystometry in anesthetized rats.

Abstract Clozapine therapy has been associated with a high degree of urinary disturbances. The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of clozapine on urodynamic parameters and on the activity of the external urethral sphincter in anesthetized rats. Single cystometrograms (CMG) were performed on urethane-anesthetized female Sprague–Dawley rats, while also recording the EMG from the external urethral sphincter. Clozapine (0, 0.1, 1, 10 mg/kg) was administered intravenously. In addition, the peripheral end of the pudendal nerve was stimulated in order to determine if clozapine was exerting peripheral effects directly on the external urethral sphincter. Clozapine increased the bladder capacity while reducing the micturition volume thus resulting in a marked increase in the residual volume. The pressure threshold was increased but the peak pressure during contraction remained unchanged. The expulsion time and contraction time were decreased and the amplitude of the high frequency oscillations (HFO) seen during the expulsion phase were markedly reduced and even abolished. The EMG from the external urethral sphincter also showed marked decreases after clozapine, and the bursting pattern seen during HFO was abolished. Clozapine had no effect on the activity elicited from electrical stimulation of the pudendal nerve. Clozapine inhibits several urodynamic parameters and inhibits the activity of the external urethral sphincter in anesthetized rats. These effects may help explain the urinary disturbances reported in the clinical literature.
Mechanistic analysis and thermochemical kinetic simulation of the products from pyrolysis of poly(α-methylstyrene), especially the unrecognized role of phenyl shift

Abstract Mechanisms for pyrolysis of poly(α-methylstyrene) must rationalize high selectivity for monomer formation, negligible formation of volatile oligomers, and notably slow decrease in molecular weight compared with the rate of weight loss, i.e., unzipping dominates both back-biting and transfer. Backbone homolysis should form both a tert -benzylic radical R tb and a prim radical R p , with formation of the latter potentially supplemented in chain propagation steps emanating from the former. Hence product-forming pathways characteristic of each are expected to compete. Simulations of initial product distributions based on assigned rate constants for chain propagation steps indicate that R tb is indeed predicted to efficiently unzip with minimal transfer or back-biting. However, R p is predicted to give comparable amounts of transfer and back-biting with minimal unzipping, behavior inconsistent with experimental data. The proposed escape from this impasse is a previously unrecognized pathway, 1,2-phenyl shift in R p to form a tert radical. If it undergoes β-scission, the net result is an inter-conversion of R p to R tb . Quantitative simulations suggest that this sequence is indeed highly competitive with other reactions of R p and thus efficiently subverts the otherwise expected propagation of chains emanating from R p .
Associations between dating violence and high-risk sexual behaviors among male and female older adolescents

This study sought to evaluate associations between adolescent dating violence victimization (DV) and high-risk sexual behaviors. Males (n = 71) and females (n = 189) reporting DV were compared to 671 males and 720 females (overall mean age 20.4 years) reporting no DV on high-risk sexual behaviors (casual sexual partner, multiple sexual partners, no contraceptive use, unprotected intercourse). DV was reported by 9.6% males and 20.8% females. All males reporting both physical and sexual DV acknowledged high-risk sexual behavior. Furthermore, most female peers (75.2%) reporting physical and sexual DV acknowledged high-risk sexual behavior. Health programs and care professionals should target violence prevention and contraception education, and promote early intervention to reduce high-risk sexual behaviors, particularly among those reporting dating violence.
A fuzzy logic-based spatial suitability model for drought-tolerant switchgrass in the United States

Abstract Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) has been targeted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture as an exemplary bioenergy crop, however it requires a significant amount of water and experiences reduced yields in water-stressed conditions. To avoid competition for prime agricultural areas, lands that receive adequate rainfall but are marginal due to highly variable timing of rain are potentially ideal locations to grow drought-tolerant biofuels. As scientists develop a modified variety of switchgrass that can withstand periods of drought while not substantially affecting overall yield, it is important to identify the potential geographical niche for this xerophytic crop to maximize its environmental and economic sustainability. This project uses a spatial suitability modeling approach that incorporates fuzzy logic and utilizes both physical and economic variables. We assess several fuzzy overlay techniques to identify and synthesize tradeoffs between suitability criteria. Our results highlight the Great Plains region of the United States as a suitable region, and within this area we focus on Kansas for a more detailed analysis to calculate land areas within varying dryness index thresholds. For this we develop a specialized dryness index using high resolution (spatial & temporal) weather and soil data to provide a spatially explicit measure of dry spell severity for switchgrass across a landscape. We estimate that 80% of the suitable land area in Kansas falls within a dryness index equivalent to about four 22-day long dry stretches, or one 45-day long dry stretch. By identifying the dryness threshold where land area is maximized, the results of this analysis inform the development of drought-tolerant varieties of switchgrass and identify marginal areas where efforts to plant such a species may prosper.
Clinical Features and Linkage Analysis of a Family with Autosomal Dominant Juvenile Glaucoma

Background: Juvenile glaucoma is an uncommon form of open-angle glaucoma that is usually recognized during childhood or early adulthood and which often has a strong family history. Methods: The authors clinically characterized a large multigeneration family with autosomal-dominant, juvenile-onset, open-angle glaucoma. Linkage analysis with short tandem repeat polymorphisms was used to evaluate the Rieger's syndrome locus as the site of the disease-causing mutation. Results: Forty members of a family with a five-generation history of open-angle glaucoma were examined. Clinical data were available from an additional five individuals, three of whom were deceased. Older family members provided limited information about the visual history of five other deceased individuals in the first three generations. Fiftynine people were at 50% risk of harboring the disease-causing mutation; and of these, 30 were affected with glaucoma by examination or by family history. All affected patients had an affected parent. The average age at diagnosis was 18 years (range, 8–30 years). Affected family members tended to be myopic but lacked other ocular or systemic abnormalities. The intraocular pressures (IOPs) of affected individuals were commonly more than 50 mmHg when they were first examined. Gonioscopy showed the angles to be open, with no abnormal pigmentation, iris processes, or embryonic tissue. Topical medications were initially effective in controlling IOP, but surgery was usually required for long-term pressure control. The Rieger's syndrome locus on chromosome 4825 was excluded as the site of the disease-causing mutation. Conclusion: Juvenile open-angle glaucoma can occur as an autosomal dominant trait with high penetrance. Genetic linkage analysis of the family reported here has the potential to identify the chromosomal location of a glaucoma-causing gene. This gene is genetically distinct from the chromosome 4 locus that was recently associated with Rieger's syndrome.
Paraelectric Resonance of KCl:Li +

Paraelectric resonance spectra of KCl:${\mathrm{Li}}^{7+}$ and KCl:${\mathrm{Li}}^{6+}$ are presented for three different frequencies: 63, 24, and 9 GHz. Quantitative results for the case of static electric field ${\mathbf{E}}_{0}$\ensuremath{\parallel}[001] support the 111g off-center tunneling model due to Gomez, Bowen, and Krumhansl. We obtain these values for the dipole moment $\ensuremath{\mu}$ and zero-field splitting $\ensuremath{\delta}$: ${\ensuremath{\mu}}_{7}={\ensuremath{\mu}}_{6}=5.6\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.2$ D, ${\ensuremath{\delta}}_{7}=0.77\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.03$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$, ${\ensuremath{\delta}}_{6}=1.07\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.04$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$. These agree with results from several other experimental techniques. Detailed analysis of line shapes and intensities indicates the presence of large random internal strains and of random electric fields. A satisfactory explanation for the presence of these is still lacking. The 63-GHz spectrum for ${\mathbf{E}}_{0}$\ensuremath{\parallel}[011] shows a negative resonance ("hole") similar to a feature seen previously in ESR experiments on MgO:${\mathrm{Ni}}^{2+}$ and MgO:${\mathrm{Fe}}^{2+}$. The model of Gomez et al. is shown to satisfy requirements for the occurrence of this negative resonance.
Detection of cell-dependent cytotoxic antibody to cells infected with herpes simplex virus.

THE killing or damage of virus-infected cells by immune processes may play a significant role either in host defence or in the production of pathological lesions during virus infections1. These immune processes are believed to be directed at virus-induced antigens on the membranes of infected cells. On the basis of in vitro experiments, several mechanisms have been proposed as possibly operative in vivo. These include the cytolytic action of antibody and complement2,3, the interaction of antibody, complement and leukocytes4, and the destruction of infected cells by immune lymphocytes5–7. Another mechanism described in non-viral systems is the cytotoxicity demonstrated by the synergistic effect of antibody and nonimmune effector cells8–10. The following experiments demonstrate a similar process operative with viruses in which heat-inactivated immune serum augments the damage of herpes simplex virus-infected cells in vitro by human mononuclear cells.
Thunderstorm Characteristics of Cloud-to-Ground Lightning at the Kennedy Space Center, Florida: A Study of Lightning Initiation Signatures as Indicated by the WSR-88D

Abstract The operational potential for predicting the onset of cloud-to-ground lightning is examined. WSR-88D reflectivity echoes were analyzed for 39 airmass thunderstorms that developed over the NASA Kennedy Space Center, Florida, to determine the best lightning initiation signature. This study examined thunderstorms in the months of May–September 1992–97. These storms were studied in conjunction with cloud-to-ground (CG) lightning flash locations from the National Lightning Detection Network. From a time series of radar echoes, it was found that the 40-dBZ echo detected at the −10°C temperature height is the best indicator for predicting the beginning of CG lightning activity. The observed median lag time, or warning time, between this lightning initiation signature and the first CG lightning flashes was 7.5 min. Other lightning initiation signatures examined at −15° and −20°C temperature heights yielded shorter warning times.