cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Smoothed binary regression quantiles

This paper extends results regarding smoothed median binary regression to general smoothed binary quantile regression, discusses the interpretation of the resulting estimators under alternative assumptions, and shows how they may be used to obtain semiparametric estimates of counterfactual probabilities. The estimators are applied to a model of labour force participation of married women in the USA. We find that the elasticity with respect to non-labour income is significantly negative only for women that belong to the middle of the conditional willingness-to-participate (WTP) distribution. In comparing the quantile models with parametric logit and semiparametric single-index specifications, we find that the models agree closely for women around the centre of the WTP distribution, but there are considerable disagreements as we move towards the tails of the distribution. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Testosterone replacement increases vasodilatory reserve in androgen-deficient female rats

Testosterone replacement leads to increased coronary pressure–induced tone and vasodilatory reserve in oophorectomized rats. The mechanisms involve changes in endothelial nitric-oxide modulation of smooth-muscle constriction and are not a result of the peripheral conversion of T to estrogen.
Mutations: How Close are they to Real Faults?

Mutation analysis is often used to compare the effectiveness of different test suites or testing techniques. One of the main assumptions underlying this technique is the Competent Programmer Hypothesis, which proposes that programs are very close to a correct version, or that the difference between current and correct code for each fault is very small. Researchers have assumed on the basis of the Competent Programmer Hypothesis that the faults produced by mutation analysis are similar to real faults. While there exists some evidence that supports this assumption, these studies are based on analysis of a limited and potentially non-representative set of programs and are hence not conclusive. In this paper, we separately investigate the characteristics of bug-fixes and other changes in a very large set of randomly selected projects using four different programming languages. Our analysis suggests that a typical fault involves about three to four tokens, and is seldom equivalent to any traditional mutation operator. We also find the most frequently occurring syntactical patterns, and identify the factors that affect the real bug-fix change distribution. Our analysis suggests that different languages have different distributions, which in turn suggests that operators optimal in one language may not be optimal for others. Moreover, our results suggest that mutation analysis stands in need of better empirical support of the connection between mutant detection and detection of actual program faults in a larger body of real programs.
35-year-old woman with progressive bilateral leg weakness.

A 35-year-old woman presented with one month's history of progressive bilateral leg weakness and altered sensation. There had been no pain. She had noted urinary frequency and constipation in the previous two weeks. On examination, the patient had diffuse lower extremity weakness (2-3/5), with a T6 sensory level to pain and temperature sensation. MRI demonstrated a T4-5 intradural mass ventral to the spinal cord, with an enhancing dural tail, consistent with meningioma. At surgery an intradural, extramedullary, firm, black neoplasm was encountered, which invaded the ventral dura and elevated and distorted the spinal cord. The mass was removed, leaving only microscopic invasion of the ventral dura. There was no bone invasion. Serial sections revealed a homogeneous black tumor without necrosis. HE fewer than 100 cases have been described. PMMTs of the CNS consist of a spectrum of tumors ranging from well-differentiated melanocytoma to its overtly malignant counterpart, melanoma. Intermediate grade melanocytomas (IMGs) are the least common variant, comprising about 10% of PMMTs reported. IGMS occur in the spinal leptomeninges and intracranially in approximately equal proportions. IGMs are more cellular than the well-differentiated variant, with 1-3 mitotic figures per 10 HPFs and MIB-1 labeling of <6%. By contrast, melanomas contain more mitotic figures (3-15 per 10 HPF) and MIB-1 labeling rates up to 15%. Once metastasis, including drop metastasis from pigmented medulloblastomas, have been excluded, the differential includes pigmented meningiomas and schwannomas (solitary or as part of Carney complex), as well as other pigmented CNS tumors such as ependymoma and pineoblastoma and systemic diseases such as lymphoma . . . For primary CNS melanocytic neoplasms, complete tumor resection is preferred, as it leads to cure of well-differentiated and intermediate-grade melanocytomas and most melanomas. Radiotherapy is recommended for incomplete resection of IMGs and melanomas; the recurrence potential of low-grade melanocytomas is less clear and watchful waiting may be employed, since recurrent tumors may be treated surgically prior to radiation. Two months after surgery, the patient had normal sensation and strength. She was given focused radiotherapy to the region of the ventral thecal sac to 40 cGy. At one year following surgery, the patient's neurological examination is normal and she remains free of residual disease by MR examination.
Comparison of the Short-Term Survival Benefit Associated With Revascularization Compared With Medical Therapy in Patients With No Prior Coronary Artery Disease Undergoing Stress Myocardial Perfusion Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography

Background— The relationship between the amount of inducible ischemia present on stress myocardial perfusion single photon emission computed tomography (myocardial perfusion stress [MPS]) and the presence of a short-term survival benefit with early revascularization versus medical therapy is not clearly defined. Methods and Results— A total of 10 627 consecutive patients who underwent exercise or adenosine MPS and had no prior myocardial infarction or revascularization were followed up (90.6% complete; mean: 1.9±0.6 years). Cardiac death occurred in 146 patients (1.4%). Treatment received within 60 days after MPS defined subgroups undergoing revascularization (671 patients, 2.8% mortality) or medical therapy (MT) (9956 patients, 1.3% mortality; P=0.0004). To adjust for nonrandomization of treatment, a propensity score was developed using logistic regression to model the decision to refer to revascularization. This model (χ2=1822, c index=0.94, P<10−7) identified inducible ischemia and anginal symptoms as ...
The logical data model

We propose an object-oriented data model that generalizes the relational, hierarchical, and network models. A database scheme in this model is a directed graph, whose leaves represent data and whose internal nodes represent connections among the data. Instances are constructed from objects, which have separate names and values. We define a logic for the model, and describe a nonprocedural query language that is based on the logic. We also describe an algebraic query language and show that it is equivalent to the logical language.
Characteristics of pentazocine dependence in hospitalized patients after naloxone administration.

In a double blind study, saline and a narcotic antagonist, naloxone, were given on separate days to 8 patients who had been receiving parenteral pentazocine daily for at least one month. The abstinence score following naloxone administration was markedly different from that after saline (p<0.05). The withdrawal symptoms in the group receiving 180 mg or less of pentazocine per day were not unpleasant, while marked dysphoria was observed in the high dose group. The results suggested that patients receiving over 180 mg of pentazocine daily for at least one month tend to develop physical dependence of the narcotic type. It is also revealed that abstinence syndrome after naloxone can appear in those taking average therapeutic doses of pentazocine when given for at least one month.
Back to the Moon

Since the end of the Apollo era, the Moon has received relatively little attention from planetary scientists. Fresh interest from a new range of nations could lead to insights into our satellite's evolution and resources.
The photoconversion of solvated electrons into trapped electrons in ethanol glass at 6°K

The γ irradiation of an ethanol glass at 77°K produces solvated electrons (e−s) which have an absorption spectrum with λmax = 520 nm at 6°K. The conversion of e−s into trapped electrons which absorb in the infrared (i.e., electrons in unrelaxed traps denoted by e−t) has been observed in bleaching e−s at 6°K with light of λ ⩽ 436 nm.
Laminar combustion of vertical free-standing fuel surfaces

Abstract The two-dimensional laminar fire plume over a vertical burning surface was examined both theoretically and experimentally. The analysis involved numerical solution of the boundary-layer equations, using the similarity solution valid in the pyrolysis zone as an initial condition. Flame shapes were determined experimentally, using wicks soaked with methanol, ethanol, and 1-propanol to simulate the burning portion of the surface. Agreement between theory and experiment was reasonably good; flame lengths were predicted within 20% of the measurements. Greatest errors were found for predicted flame shapes in the pyrolysis region, where experimental difficulties in properly representing the leading edge and possible breakdown of the boundary layer equations are suggested as factors contributing to the discrepancy.
Dielectric constant of semi-insulating indium phosphide

Results are given on precision measurements of the relative dielectric constant of semi-insulating indium phosphide. It is concluded that the static value is within less than 0.5% of 12.55 based on a statistical average of a large number of measurements on several material samples.
New facility for ion beam materials characterization and modification at Los Alamos

Abstract The Ion Beam Materials Laboratory (IBML) is a new Los Alamos laboratory devoted to the characterization and modification of the near surfaces of materials. The primary instruments of the IBML are a tandem electrostatic accelerator, a National Electrostatic Corp. model 9SDH, coupled with a Varian CF-3000 ion implanter. The unique organizational structure of the IBML as well as the operational characteristics of the 9SDH (after approximately 3000 h of operation) and the laboratories' research capabilities will be discussed. Examples of current research results will also be presented.
Statistical models for carbon monoxide in El Paso, Texas

This study was conducted to develop a statistical model that would enable decision‐makers, planners, and the general public to use existing large quantities of ambient air carbon monoxide (CO) data in establishing an effective air quality management program for El Paso, Texas. Two models, a General Linear Model (GLM) and a 20‐term Quadratic Model (QM) were produced. Both models predict well for periods of up to two years. The models enable the user not only to predict ambient air CO levels for specified time periods, but also provide a mechanism whereby environmental factors such as meteorological variables and area emissions may be evaluated for magnitude of impact on ambient air CO levels. The use of the definition of scenario conditions, the “conditioning” process, also enables the user to assess the influences of non‐scalar variables such as wind direction and geographical location on ambient air CO levels. The basic framework for model development, calibration, and validation, plus the evaluation of ...
The Media's Capacity for Good and Evil

Armoudian, M. (2011). Kill the messenger: The media's role in the fate of the world. Amherst, NY: Prometheus Books. 389 pp., $25.00 (Hbk). In Kill the Messenger: The Media's Role in the Fate of the...
cGMP and NHR Signaling Co-regulate Expression of Insulin-Like Peptides and Developmental Activation of Infective Larvae in Strongyloides stercoralis

The infectious form of the parasitic nematode Strongyloides stercoralis is a developmentally arrested third-stage larva (L3i), which is morphologically similar to the developmentally arrested dauer larva in the free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. We hypothesize that the molecular pathways regulating C. elegans dauer development also control L3i arrest and activation in S. stercoralis. This study aimed to determine the factors that regulate L3i activation, with a focus on G protein-coupled receptor-mediated regulation of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) pathway signaling, including its modulation of the insulin/IGF-1-like signaling (IIS) pathway. We found that application of the membrane-permeable cGMP analog 8-bromo-cGMP potently activated development of S. stercoralis L3i, as measured by resumption of feeding, with 85.1±2.2% of L3i feeding in 200 µM 8-bromo-cGMP in comparison to 0.6±0.3% in the buffer diluent. Utilizing RNAseq, we examined L3i stimulated with DMEM, 8-bromo-cGMP, or the DAF-12 nuclear hormone receptor (NHR) ligand Δ7-dafachronic acid (DA)—a signaling pathway downstream of IIS in C. elegans. L3i stimulated with 8-bromo-cGMP up-regulated transcripts of the putative agonistic insulin-like peptide (ILP) -encoding genes Ss-ilp-1 (20-fold) and Ss-ilp-6 (11-fold) in comparison to controls without stimulation. Surprisingly, we found that Δ7-DA similarly modulated transcript levels of ILP-encoding genes. Using the phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase inhibitor LY294002, we demonstrated that 400 nM Δ7-DA-mediated activation (93.3±1.1% L3i feeding) can be blocked using this IIS inhibitor at 100 µM (7.6±1.6% L3i feeding). To determine the tissues where promoters of ILP-encoding genes are active, we expressed promoter::egfp reporter constructs in transgenic S. stercoralis post-free-living larvae. Ss-ilp-1 and Ss-ilp-6 promoters are active in the hypodermis and neurons and the Ss-ilp-7 promoter is active in the intestine and a pair of head neurons. Together, these data provide evidence that cGMP and DAF-12 NHR signaling converge on IIS to regulate S. stercoralis L3i activation.
A study of inviscid, supersonic mixing layers using a second-order total variational diminishing scheme

Direct numerical simulations are performed to investigate several aspects of ideal-gas, inviscid, two-dimensional, temporally growing, high-speed mixing layers: stability, dynamics, and interaction between shocks and vortical structures. Agreement with experimental results indicates that the growth rate of a mixing layer decreases as the Mach number increases. Eddy shocklets are captured and found to rotate in the opposite direction to the rotation of the local large structure
F-region radio and optical measurement of nighttime TID campaign

1. Observations of traveling ionospheric disturbances and 3-m scale irregularities in the nighttime F-region ionosphere with the MU radar and a GPS network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 2. Observations and modeling of 630 nm airglow and total electron content associated with traveling ionospheric disturbances over Shigaraki, Japan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 3. Imaging observations of the equatorward limit of midlatitude traveling ionospheric disturbances . . . . . . . . . . 57 4. A new technique for mapping of total electron content using GPS network in Japan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 5. Plasmaspheric electron content in the GPS ray paths over Japan under magnetically quiet conditions at high solar activity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Aeroelastic Response of Nonlinear Wing Sections Using a Functional Series Technique

This paper addresses the problem of the determination of the subcritical aeroelastic response and flutter instability of nonlinear two-dimensional lifting surfaces in an incompressible flow-field via indicial functions and Volterra series approach. The related aeroelastic governing equations are based upon the inclusion of structural and damping nonlinearities in plunging and pitching, of the linear unsteady aerodynamics and consideration of an arbitrary time-dependent external pressure pulse. Unsteady aeroelastic nonlinear kernels are determined, and based on these, frequency and time histories of the subcritical aeroelastic response are obtained, and in this context the influence of the considered nonlinearities is emphasized. Conclusions and results displaying the implications of the considered effects are supplied.
The mechanical properties of PVC under high pressure

The deformation properties of PVC have been studied under high pressure. Craze initiation and yield criteria have been proposed. The brittle-to-ductile transition was observed between 1×107 and 2×107 Pa, which is a relatively low transition pressure compared to polystyrene. Deformation in the post-yield region occurred by neck formation and subsequent drawing to produce chain orientation. When PVC was exposed to the pressure-transmitting fluid, silicon oil, a strong environmental stress cracking effect was observed.
Use of Mental Health Services by Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence

Fifty women survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV) were recruited from a legal advocacy program to participate in a study designed to assess current rates of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and alcohol and substance abuse among a sample of abused women and to examine the types of services survivors of IPV had used in the previous 12 months. In addition, the authors sought to understand how the presence of substance abuse, PTSD, and/or depression affects access and utilization of services by IPV survivors. Fifty-four percent of these IPV survivors were experiencing either PTSD, clinical depression, or both. While women with either PTSD or depression used a significantly larger number of services overall, the majority had not used any mental health services, even though they frequently reported services were accessible. Given the high rates of PTSD and depression in this sample, these abused women were clearly not receiving adequate mental health care. Furthermore, many reported havi...
Pin Photodiodes Irradiated with 40- and 85-MeV Protons

PIN photodiodes were bombarded with 40- and 85-MeV protons to a fluence of 1.5 × 1011 p/cm2, and the resulting change in spectral response in the near infrared was determined. The photocurrent, dark current and pulse amplitude were measured as a function of proton fluence. Changes in these three measured properties are discussed in terms of changes in the diode's spectral response, minority carrier diffusion length and depletion width. A simple model of induced radiation effects is presented which is in good agreement with the experimental results. The model assumes that incident protons produce charged defects within the depletion region simulating donor type impurities.
Luminance Affects Age-Related Deficits in Object Detection: Implications for Computerized Psychological Assessments

As psychological instruments are converted for administration on computers, differences in luminance and contrast of these displays may affect performance. Specifically, high-luminance assessments may mask age-group differences that are apparent under lower luminance conditions. We examined the effects of luminance and contrast on object detection using computerized and naturalistic assessments. Younger and older adults displayed more differences in performance across differing contrast levels in conditions that were matched for luminance, despite the conditions appearing perceptually different. These findings indicate that computerized assessments should be created with luminance levels that are similar to those of the tasks they purport to simulate in order to enhance their validity.
Bezold–Brücke effect and visual nonlinearity*

This paper reports an investigation of the Bezold–Brucke effect as a means of studying nonlinearity in vision. Two subjects performed hue-matching experiments using simultaneously presented monochromatic stimuli of unequal corneal irradiances. For seven wavelengths between 560 and 620 nm, the shift of hue was measured over a 1000:1 range of irradiances, in steps of about 3:1. Contrary to previous reports of the Bezold–Brucke hue shift, the hue of a given wavelength is not a monotonic function of irradiance, nor is there an invariant wavelength in this spectral region. Some previous models of the Bezold–Brucke effect in the literature are incompatible with the present data. We propose a physiologically plausible, analytic form for nonlinearities of the red and green color systems, and a simple model for the physiological correlate of hue, which together are capable of predicting some major characteristics of the present data and of previously reported data.
Anomalous Fatigue Behavior and Fatigue-Induced Grain Growth in Nanocrystalline Nickel Alloys

Fatigue failure due to repetitive loading of metallic devices is a pervasive engineering concern. The present work reveals extraordinary fatigue resistance in nanocrystalline (NC) alloys, which appears to be associated with the small ( 107 cycles to failure). Postmortem examinations show that failed samples contain an aggregate of coarsened grains at the crack initiation site. The experimental data and accompanying microscopy suggest that the NC matrix undergoes abnormal grain growth during cyclic loading, allowing dislocation activity to persist over length scales necessary to initiate a fatigue crack by traditional fatigue mechanisms. Thus, the present observations demonstrate anomalous fatigue behavior in two regards: (1) quantitatively anomalous when considering the extremely high stress levels needed to drive fatigue failure and (2) mechanistically anomalous in light of the grain growth process that appears to be a necessary precursor to crack initiation.
122 COUPLING OF VENTRICULAR FUNCTION IN LAMBS

The effects of increased right ventricular afterload (RVAL) and increased left ventricular afterload (LVAL) on contractility of the opposite ventricle were assessed in newborn lambs. Six lambs (1-3 days) were anesthetized with chloralose and instrumented to enable measurement of pulmonary blood flow (Qp), pulmonary arterial pressure, aortic pressure, heart rate (HR), and, via transducer tipped catheters placed transmurally, RV and LV pressures and RV or LV dp/dt. With the pericardium closed, RVAL was induced 18 times in 6 lambs with alveolar hypoxia (2-5/lamb). LV contractility increased significantly (p<0.05) with stroke work (SW)(±S.D.) increasing from 169 ± 114 mmHg-ml to 232 ± 200 mmHg-ml and LV dp/dt increasing from 545 ± 182 mmHg/sec to 739 ± 336 mmHg/sec. Qp, HR, and stroke volume (SV) did not change significantly. LVAL was induced 13 times in 5 lambs with an aortic cuffed vascular occluder (2-3/lamb). No significant changes occurred in Qp, HR, SV, SW, or RV dp/dt. The effect of alveolar hypoxia on RV function was also assessed 18 times in 4 lambs. RV dp/dt, RV SW, RV SV, and Qp all increased significantly (p<0.05). We concluded that in the presence of acute LVAL, RV function was unaffected whereas with an acute RVAL, LV function actually increased. This suggests that the LV dysfunction observed in some human newborns with pulmonary hypertension is not due to mechanical coupling of the ventricles. The contrasting findings for the two ventricles in the presence of contralateral VAL may be related to interventricular septal motion or to the nature of the VALs themselves.
Birth weight predicts subclinical orthostatic hypotension in children

BACKGROUND: Relatively low birth weight is associated with elevated heart rate and increased circulation of catecholamines and overall higher sympathetic activation in children. Increased levels of each of these variables in turn may promote poorer systolic blood pressure regulation in response to an orthostatic challenge. The present study examined the relationship between subsyndromal orthostatic systolic change in children and birth weights varying from 4 to 10 pounds. METHODS: Boys and girls (N=34) ranging in age from 7 – 10 years from a culturally diverse population were recruited. After lying supine for five minutes and again after about one minute of standing, blood pressure and pulse were measured. The greater the difference between standing minus supine systolic blood pressure, the stronger the response to orthostatic challenge. RESULTS: As birth weight increased, the systolic increase in blood pressure to an orthostatic challenge grew stronger. CONCLUSIONS: Increasing birth weight is associated with more efficient subsyndromal orthostatic blood pressure responses. Thus, increased heart rate and greater sympathetic nervous system activation found in low birth weight neonates are associated with poorer orthostatic blood pressure regulation that in turn is prognostic of cardiovascular difficulties and hypertension as well as cognitive and affective difficulties in childhood and in adulthood.
Magnetohydrodynamic Control of Hypersonic Flows and Scramjet Inlets Using Electron Beam Ionization

The possibility of controlling scramjet inlets in off-design conditions by operating a near-surface magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) system upstream of the inlet is examined. The required electrical conductivity in air is supposed to be created by electron beams injected into the air from the vehicle along magnetic field lines. A simple model of a beam-generated ionization profile is developed and coupled with plasma kinetics, MHD equations, and two-dimensional inviscid flow equations. Calculations show that an MHD system with reasonable parameters could bring shocks back to the cowl lip when flying at Mach numbers higher than those for which the inlet was optimized. The MHD effect is not reduced to heating only because the work by j X B forces is a substantial part of the overall effect. Power requirements for ionizing electron beams could be lower than the electrical power extracted with MHD, so that a net power would be generated onboard. Problems associated with high Hall fields are discussed
Combustion synthesis of perovskite LnCrO3 powders using ammonium dichromate

Fine-particle LnCrO3 perovskites, where Ln = rare earths, have been prepared by the exothermic redox decomposition of ammonium dichromate, lanthanum nitrate and glycine mixtures. The self-redox decomposition of ammonium dichromate enabled LnCrO3 to be formed by combustion synthesis using less glycine than mixtures containing chromium nitrate. Autoignition temperatures for precursor mixtures containing ammonium dichromate were lower than those containing chromium nitrate (< 170°C versus 180 to 210°C, respectively). Ammonium dichromate-containing precursors combusted at lower temperatures and produced powders having higher surface areas than precursor solutions containing chromium nitrate.
Translocation of photosynthate from soybean leaves to the pods during senescence

Summary Translocation of 14C-labeled assimilates from soybean leaves to the pods was examined during pod maturation and leaf senescence. The degree of seed development was expressed as stages of radicle yellowing which was related to other changes in the seeds as well as yellowing of the carpels, the leaf veins and the leaf intervenal tissue. To study translocation, a whole leaf was labeled with 14C−CO2 (30 min) or 14C-sucrose was applied to a small area on the upper surface of a leaf. Vein yellowing does not affect export of 14C-photosynthate from the leaf, and hilum browning does not alter import of photosynthate by the pods. The seeds can import 14C from the neighboring leaf even when carpels and seeds are completely yellow. The leaves can export 14C to the pods after they have lost their photosynthetic capacity, apparently until they abscise.
Auditory and visual threat recognition in captive-reared Great Lakes piping plovers (Charadrius melodus)

Abstract Captive rearing of endangered species for later release is a method used to augment critically small populations, although studies have shown lower survival and fitness for individuals raised in captivity. Since 1992, recovery efforts for the endangered Great Lakes piping plover population have included captive rearing, but released young have lower survival than wild plover chicks. We tested the hypothesis that captive-reared chicks lack the ability to recognize predators by using visual and auditory stimuli. Vocalizations of predators and non-predators were combined with parental alarm calls, predator silhouettes, and a control to test for vigilant responses in captive-reared chicks prior to release. We tested for increases in average percent time spent on vigilant behaviors associated with exposure to predator and non-predator stimuli using linear mixed models. Chicks exhibited the greatest increase in vigilance when a treatment was combined with a parental alarm, regardless of whether the treatment was a predator or non-predator. Compared to white noise, average vigilance increased from 1.7% to 21.9% during non-predator treatments (95% CI: 8.0–34.2%) and to 78.3% during predator treatments (95% CI: 65.7–91.1%), indicating that chicks innately recognize avian predators as threatening. Average vigilance increased by 56.4% during predator treatments compared to non-predator treatments (95% CI: 49.8–64.8%), but individuals did not appear to differentiate between specific predators or non-predators. Our results provide strong evidence that captive-reared chicks innately recognize avian predators, which suggests that decreased post-release survival in captive-reared piping plovers is most likely caused by some other captivity-induced difference or by the lack of a parentally-taught behavior.
Pullback Moduli Spaces

Geometric invariant theory can be used to construct moduli spaces associated to representations of finite dimensional algebras. One difficulty which occurs in various natural cases is that nonisomorphic modules are sent to the same point in the moduli spaces which arise. In this article, we study how this collapsing phenomenon can sometimes be reduced by considering pullbacks of modules for an auxiliary algebra. One application is a geometric proof that the twisting action of an algebra automorphism induces an algebraic isomorphism between moduli spaces.
Environmental factors, perceived distance and spatial behavior

In this study the author assesses the effects of certain environmental factors on distance cognition and spatial behavior. Thirty-three university faculty members who had parked at one of two garag...
Cytomegalovirus retinitis : Diagnosis and status of systemic therapy

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis is a disease of advanced immunosuppression that occurs almost exclusively in patients with CD4+ counts of < or =50 cells/mm3. Therefore, this disease usually presents in patients who have already been diagnosed with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). The rate of progression of untreated CMV retinitis is variable. Typical initial complaints of patients with CMV retinitis may include blurred or decreased vision, loss of peripheral or central vision, and multiple "floaters." The diagnosis of CMV retinitis requires ruling out a number of other ocular disorders that may be confused with CMV retinitis. This review discusses the different appearances of CMV retinitis at presentation and the possible retinal responses to therapy for CMV retinitis. An overview of intravenous (i.v.) ganciclovir or i.v. foscarnet as systemic therapy for treatment of CMV retinitis and their use in combination is also presented. Results indicate that combination therapy with both ganciclovir and foscarnet is more effective in controlling progression of CMV retinitis in relapsed patients than is monotherapy with either drug. However, combination systemic therapy is time-consuming, and this regimen has the greatest negative impact on quality of life. Treatment should involve a cooperative effort between the patient's ophthalmologist and the primary AIDS-treating physician. Both must be aware of the location and activity of the retinitis and of other medical conditions and concomitant medications.
Disequilibrium after Cochlear Implantation Caused by a Perilymph Fistula

Objectives: Cochlear implantation has become a safe and effective method for the auditory rehabilitation of the profoundly hearing impaired. Incidence of disequilibrium and vertigo after cochlear implantation ranges from 13% to 74% in the literature. Most patients report resolution of these symptoms with medical therapy and vestibular rehabilitation. We present a case of persistent disequilibrium after cochlear implantation. Further workup of this patient revealed radiographic findings suggestive of a perilymphatic fistula, with immediate and complete resolution of symptoms after exploratory tympanotomy and packing around the cochleostomy. Study Design: Case report. Methods: A retrospective chart review of a patient with postoperative disequilibrium unresponsive to maximal medical and vestibular rehabilitation therapy. Results: Diagnostic workup of the patient included a temporal bone computed tomography (CT) scan, which revealed air in the vestibule and the ampulla of the superior and lateral semicircular canals. After failure of 5 months of conservative therapy, the patient was taken to the operating room for middle ear exploration and repacking of the cochleostomy site. The patient reported immediate and complete resolution of vertigo postoperatively. Conclusion: We present a case of disequilibrium as a result of an apparent perilymphatic fistula after cochlear implantation that was refractory to standard therapy. In such cases, appropriate workup should include a temporal bone CT scan to look for air in the vestibule or other abnormalities that may indicate potential etiology. Surprisingly, this patient had immediate and complete resolution of symptoms after surgery. If conservative therapy fails, middle ear exploration by way of an exploratory tympanotomy and packing of the cochleostomy with periosteum and muscle is a viable option and may lead to resolution of symptoms.
Macular pigment optical density spatial distribution measured in a subject with oculocutaneous albinism.

Purpose Previous studies of macular pigment optical density (MPOD) distribution in individuals with oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) have primarily used objective measurement techniques including fundus reflectometry and autofluorescence. We report here on a subject with OCA and their corresponding MPOD distribution assessed through heterochromatic flicker photometry (HFP).
An Early Intestinal Mucosal Source of Gamma Interferon Is Associated with Resistance to and Control of Cryptosporidium parvum Infection in Mice

ABSTRACT Resistance to and control of Cryptosporidium parvum infection in mice in the absence of adaptive immunity appears to be gamma interferon (IFN-γ) dependent. Using an IFN-γ-neutralizing antibody in a murine model, we demonstrated increased susceptibility to infection within 24 h. We correlated this early resistance and control with increased mucosal expression of IFN-γ and demonstrate that CD8+ T-cell receptor αβ intestinal intraepithelial lymphocytes express and secrete this cytokine shortly after infection. The rapid kinetics of IFN-γ expression and secretion by naive CD8+ T cells in response to a protozoan pathogen have not previously been demonstrated.
Regulation and modulation of electric waveforms in gymnotiform electric fish

Weakly electric gymnotiform fish specialize in the regulation and modulation of the action potentials that make up their multi-purpose electric signals. To produce communication signals, gymnotiform fish modulate the waveforms of their electric organ discharges (EODs) over timescales spanning ten orders of magnitude within the animal's life cycle: developmental, reproductive, circadian, and behavioral. Rapid changes lasting milliseconds to seconds are the result of direct neural control of action potential firing in the electric organ. Intermediate-term changes taking minutes to hours result from the action of melanocortin peptides, the pituitary hormones that induce skin darkening and cortisol release in many vertebrates. Long-term changes in the EOD waveform taking days to weeks result from the action of sex steroids on the electrocytes in the electric organ as well as changes in the neural control structures in the brain. These long-term changes in the electric organ seem to be associated with changes in the expression of voltage-gated ion channels in two gene families. Electric organs express multiple voltage-gated sodium channel genes, at least one of which seems to be regulated by androgens. Electric organs also express multiple subunits of the shaker (Kv1) family of voltage-gated potassium channels. Expression of the Kv1 subtype has been found to vary with the duration of the waveform in the electric signal. Our increasing understanding of the mechanisms underlying precise control of electric communication signals may yield significant insights into the diversity of natural mechanisms available for modifying the performance of ion channels in excitable membranes. These mechanisms may lead to better understanding of normal function in a wide range of physiological systems and future application in treatment of disease states involving pathology of excitable membranes.
Cytoskeletal structure regulates endothelial cell immunogenicity independent of fluid shear stress

The cardiovascular disease atherosclerosis is directly linked to the functions of endothelial cells (ECs), which are affected by fluid shear stress (FSS). High, unidirectional FSS causes EC elongat...
Spatially selective optical biosensing based on the transmission through nanoslit arrays

Metal nanoslit arrays are investigated to tailor the electromagnetic field distribution and the relative contribution of cavity modes and surface plasmon polariton modes for refractive index sensing, permitting spatially selective sensing for optical biosensing applications.
CHRNB3 is more strongly associated with Fagerström Test for Cigarette Dependence-based nicotine dependence than cigarettes per day: Phenotype definition changes genome-wide association studies results

Aims Nicotine dependence is a highly heritable disorder associated with severe medical morbidity and mortality. Recent meta-analyses have found novel genetic loci associated with cigarettes per day (CPD), a proxy for nicotine dependence. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the importance of phenotype definition (i.e. CPD versus Fagerstrom Test for Cigarette Dependence (FTCD) score as a measure of nicotine dependence) on genome-wide association studies of nicotine dependence. Design Genome-wide association study. Setting Community sample. Participants A total of 3365 subjects who had smoked at least one cigarette were selected from the Study of Addiction: Genetics and Environment (SAGE). Of the participants, 2267 were European Americans, 999 were African Americans. Measurements Nicotine dependence defined by FTCD score ≥4, CPD. Findings The genetic locus most strongly associated with nicotine dependence was rs1451240 on chromosome 8 in the region of CHRNB3 [odds ratio (OR) = 0.65, P = 2.4 × 10−8]. This association was further strengthened in a meta-analysis with a previously published data set (combined P = 6.7 × 10−16, total n = 4200). When CPD was used as an alternate phenotype, the association no longer reached genome-wide significance (β = −0.08, P = 0.0004). Conclusions Daily cigarette consumption and the Fagerstrom Test for Cigarette Dependence show different associations with polymorphisms in genetic loci.
Variation in TCF7L2 and increased risk of colon cancer

Abstract OBJECTIVE: To determine whether variation in the transcription factor 7-like 2 ( TCF7L2 ) gene, which influences diabetes risk, is associated with incidence of cancers. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: We related diabetes and TCF7L2 variation with occurrence of several common cancers in a prospective cohort study of 13,117 middle-aged adults initially free of cancer in 1987–89. We assessed five SNPs in TCF7L2 including the putative SNP (rs7903146) for diabetes. We identified incident cancers through 2000 via cancer registries, supplemented by hospital records. RESULTS: Diabetes was associated marginally inversely with incidence of prostate cancer, but not associated with incidence of colorectal, colon, lung, or breast cancer. The T allele of rs7903146 (frequency = 30%) was associated with increased risk of colorectal cancer and, more specifically, colon cancer, with adjusted hazard ratios (95% CI) of 1.0 for CC, 1.25 (0.85, 1.83) for CT, and 2.15 (1.27, 3.64) for TT genotypes (p for trend = 0.009). TCF7L2 variation also was associated with lung cancer incidence in whites but not blacks, but residual confounding by smoking may be present. CONCLUSIONS: Initially cancer-free subjects carrying certain genetic variants of TCF7L2 , most notably the T allele of rs7903146, have increased risk of colon cancer. This association appears to be an independent gene effect, not explained by diabetes. Because the T allele of rs7903146 is common, if a causal link is established, this variant could account for a sizable proportion (approximately 17% here) of colon cancer cases in the general population.
Modeling and synthesizing spatially inflected verbs for American sign language animations

Animations of American Sign Language (ASL) have accessibility benefits for many signers with lower levels of written language literacy. This paper introduces a novel method for modeling and synthesizing ASL animations based on movement data collected from native signers. This technique allows for the synthesis of animations of signs (in particular, inflecting verbs, which are frequent in ASL) whose performance is affected by the arrangement of locations in 3D space that represent entities under discussion. Mathematical models of hand movement are trained on examples of signs produced by a human animator. Animations of ASL synthesized from the model were judged to be of similar quality to animations produced by a human animator, and these animations led to higher comprehension scores (than baseline approaches limited to selecting signs from a finite dictionary) in an evaluation study conducted with 18 native signers. This novel technique is applicable to ASL or other sign languages. It can significantly increase the repertoire of generation systems and can partially automate the work of humans using scripting systems.
Highly active anti-Pneumocystis carinii compounds in a library of novel piperazine-linked bisbenzamidines and related compounds.

Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and pentamidine isethionate have been used extensively for the prophylaxis and therapy of pneumonia caused by Pneumocystis jirovecii . Problems associated with toxicity and potential emerging resistance for both therapies necessitate the development of safe and effective analogs or new treatment strategies. In the present study, a library of 36 compounds was synthesized by using the pentamidine molecule as the parent compound modified by a 1,4-piperazinediyl moiety as the central linker to restrict conformation flexibility. The compounds were evaluated for anti- Pneumocystis carinii activity in a bioluminescent ATP-driven assay. Four of the compounds were highly active, with 50% inhibitory concentration (IC 50 ) values of 50 50 50 50 = 34.1 μg/ml); and the remaining eight did not demonstrate activity in this assay system. The high level of activity was specifically associated with an alkyl chain length of five to six carbons attached to one of the nitrogens of the bisamidinium groups. None of the highly active compounds and only one of the very marked compounds exhibited any toxicity when evaluated in three mammalian cell lines. The strategy of substitution of 1,4-piperazine-linked bisbenzamidines produced compounds with the highest level of activity observed in the ATP assay and holds great promise for the development of efficacious anti- P. carinii therapy.
What can a clock mutation in mice tell us about bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is characterized by episodes of mania and episodes of depression usually interspersed with periods of relatively normal mood (1). During the manic phase, affected individuals exhibit elevated mood, irritability, increased activity, reduced sleep, hypersexuality, and increased goal-directed activities. Bipolar disorder in its various forms affects >3% of the population and is associated with a high risk for suicide, substance abuse, and vocational disability (2). Although several animal models for major depressive disorder have been developed, there are no plausible models for bipolar disorder (3). In this issue of PNAS, Roybal et al. (4) describe the results of a systematic analysis of the behavior of a mouse with a deletion of exon 19 in the Clock gene, which shows remarkable parallels to the symptoms observed in individuals in an episode of mania (1). The Clock mutant mice exhibit hyperactivity, decreased sleep, reduced anxiety, and increased response to cocaine, sucrose, and medial forebrain bundle stimulation. Furthermore, many of these behaviors can be reversed by transfection of the ventral tegmental area (VTA) dopaminergic neurons with WT Clock gene or by treatment with therapeutic doses of lithium (Li+), a commonly prescribed mood stabilizer.
Natural proofs for data structure manipulation in C using separation logic

The natural proof technique for heap verification developed by Qiu et al. [32] provides a platform for powerful sound reasoning for specifications written in a dialect of separation logic called Dryad. Natural proofs are proof tactics that enable automated reasoning exploiting recursion, mimicking common patterns found in human proofs. However, these proofs are known to work only for a simple toy language [32]. In this work, we develop a framework called VCDryad that extends the Vcc framework [9] to provide an automated deductive framework against separation logic specifications for C programs based on natural proofs. We develop several new techniques to build this framework, including (a) a novel tool architecture that allows encoding natural proofs at a higher level in order to use the existing Vcc framework (including its intricate memory model, the underlying type-checker, and the SMT-based verification infrastructure), and (b) a synthesis of ghost-code annotations that captures natural proof tactics, in essence forcing Vcc to find natural proofs using primarily decidable theories. We evaluate our tool extensively, on more than 150 programs, ranging from code manipulating standard data structures, well-known open source library routines (Glib, OpenBSD), Linux kernel routines, customized OS data structures, etc. We show that all these C programs can be fully automatically verified using natural proofs (given pre/post conditions and loop invariants) without any user-provided proof tactics. VCDryad is perhaps the first deductive verification framework for heap-manipulating programs in a real language that can prove such a wide variety of programs automatically.
BIOLOGY AND DOWNSTREAM DRIFT OF SOME OREGON TRICHOPTERA

Data are given on the biology of several species of Trichoptera in the Metolius River, Oregon, based on drift and benthos samples. Twenty-seven species were collected. Species of Limnephilidae, Brachycentridae, Hydroptilidae, and Lepidostomatidae were important drift components. The Metolius River is extremely productive, with a mean density of larval Trichoptera of 7400 per square meter in benthos samples and a maximum of 5000 per 24 hours in drift-trap samples. Different species varied in their tendency to drift, in the age class distribution in the drift, and in diel periodicity. Drift-trap collecting is shown to be a useful method of studying aspects of behavior such as the dispersal of larvae and the emergence of pupae.