cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nitrogen Stable Isotopes of Macrophytes Assess Stormwater Nitrogen Inputs to an Urbanized Estuary

The 15N composition of seagrass and benthic macroalgae from shallow waters of Sarasota Bay was measured to determine if stable N isotopes can be used to trace stormwater N into macrophyte production within an urbanized estuary. Results show isotopically enriched macroalgae at the landward stations near creeks and bayous in the central Bay and in the southern portion of the Bay. A known sewage outfall at Whitaker Bayou resulted in δ 15NO3 values from 0 to +9‰. Isotopically enriched NH4 values in Phillippi Creek (+10 to +17‰) were similar to the stormwater 15NH4 values from the watershed (+7 to +18‰). Enriched N sources supported a significant portion of macroalgae N demands in the southern reaches of the Bay while isotopically depleted N sources (i.e., atmospheric deposition and/or fertilizers) appear to be more important for macroalgae in the northern portion of the Bay. Macroalgae were typically more enriched than seagrass and appear to be better indicators of anthropogenic loadings near creeks and bayous that receive large volumes of stormwater and other anthropogenic N sources. Historically, studies have used enriched 15N in macrophytes to infer wastewater influences. This study shows that stormwater N inputs need to be considered in nitrogen budgets for aquatic systems that show anthropogenic 15N enrichment.
Quasi-specific access of the potassium channel inactivation gate.

Inactivation of Shaker potassium channels is caused by one of the four cytoplasmic amino termini, termed the inactivation gate. Here, Venkataraman et al. show that a single gate threads through the intracellular entryway of its own subunit and interacts with all four subunits deeper in the pore, demonstrating the function of this N-terminus.
The role of documents vs. queries in extracting class attributes from text

Challenging the implicit reliance on document collections, this paper discusses the pros and cons of using query logs rather than document collections, as self-contained sources of data in textual information extraction. The differences are quantified as part of a large-scale study on extracting prominent attributes or quantifiable properties of classes (e.g., top speed, price and fuel consumption for CarModel) from unstructured text. In a head-to-head qualitative comparison, a lightweight extraction method produces class attributes that are 45% more accurate on average, when acquired from query logs rather than Web documents.
Synthesis of dioxane-based antiviral agents and evaluation of their biological activities as inhibitors of Sindbis virus replication.

Abstract The crystal structure of the Sindbis virus capsid protein contains one or two solvent-derived dioxane molecules in the hydrophobic binding pocket. A bis-dioxane antiviral agent was designed by linking the two dioxane molecules with a three-carbon chain having R , R connecting stereochemistry, and a stereospecific synthesis was performed. This resulted in an effective antiviral agent that inhibited Sindbis virus replication with an EC 50 of 14 μM. The synthesis proceeded through an intermediate ( R )-2-hydroxymethyl-[1,4]dioxane, which unexpectedly proved to be a more effecting antiviral agent than the target compound, as evidenced by its EC 50 of 3.4 μM as an inhibitor of Sindbis virus replication. Both compounds were not cytotoxic in uninfected BHK cells at concentrations of 1 mM.
The Climatology and Characteristics of Rossby Wave Packets Using a Feature-Based Tracking Technique

AbstractThis paper describes an objective, track-based climatology of Rossby wave packets (RWPs). NCEP–NCAR reanalysis wind and geopotential height data at 300 hPa every 6 h were spectrally filtered using a Hilbert transform technique under the assumption that RWPs propagate along a waveguide defined by the 14-day running average of the 300-hPa wind. Track data and feature-based descriptive statistics, including area, average intensity, intensity volume (intensity multiplied by area), intensity-weighted centroid position, and velocity, were gathered to describe the interannual, annual, seasonal, and regime-based climatology of RWPs. RWPs have a more pronounced seasonal cycle in the Northern Hemisphere (NH) than the Southern Hemisphere (SH). RWPs are nearly nonexistent in the summer months (June–August; JJA) in the NH, while there is nearly continuous RWP activity downstream of South Africa during austral summer (December–February; DJF). Interannual variability in RWP frequency and intensity in the Norther...
The interplay of salesperson’s job performance and satisfaction in the financial services industry

Research has not yet provided conclusive confirmation or disconfirmation of any model that discusses the relationship between job satisfaction (JS) and job performance (JP). This article reviews the relationship in the financial services industry setting and examines in line with the precedents (perceived organizational support, role ambiguity, role conflict (RC), work-family conflict (WFC), emotional exhaustion (EE)) and the consequences (organizational commitment). Findings suggest that, in the financial services industry, JP causes JS and has a positive effect on organizational commitment. This study also finds that WFC serves as an antecedent to RC, EE and JS. Most importantly, the finding that WFC is significantly related to RC is new and thus needs to be confirmed in different industry settings.
Skeletal muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum in porcine malignant hyperthermia

Abstract To examine the function of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) in malignant hyperthermia, SR was isolated from semitendinosus muscle of normal and genetically susceptible Poland China swine. Determinations included rate of calcium binding (oxalate absent), rate and capacity of calcium uptake (oxalate present), and spontaneous calcium release (in the absence of ionic depolarization or calcium) with and without halothane, using the millipore filtration technique. Rate of calcium binding, and rate and capacity of calcium uptake were decreased, and spontaneous calcium release was greater in SR fragments from susceptible swine as compared to those from normal swine. Halothane 0.5% slightly increased the rate of calcium binding in susceptible and normal SR. Above 1%, halothane decreased calcium binding rate, and uptake rate and capacity, and increased calcium release similarly in susceptible and normal SR. These differences in SR function were insufficient to explain the etiology of malignant hyperthermia, nor did the effect of halothane account for its triggering action.
Prospective Multicenter Study of Eligibility for Antiviral Therapy Among 4,084 U.S. Veterans with Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection

Prospective Multicenter Study of Eligibility for Antiviral Therapy Among 4,084 U.S. Veterans with Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection
NMR studies of the structure of aqueous amide solutions

Abstract An extensive investigation has been made concerning the structure of a series of aqueous amide solutions using nuclear magnetic resonance techniques. Changes in spectral parameters as a function of solution composition and temperature were used to determine the effect of the intrinsic amide molecule structure on the structure of water and the solution as a whole.
REVALUING THE BILINGUAL LEARNER THROUGH A LITERATURE READING PROGRAM

Bilingual learners have traditionally been labeled “limited English proficient” (LEP). The LEP label limits the potential of second language learners, who are often considered to have a learning deficit simply because they do not speak English fluently. In this article, we present alternatives to three misconceptions about bilingual learners to promote the revaluing of these students. In addition, traditional views of literacy instruction for second language learners are described and a whole‐language literature program alternative is suggested. Finally, the difference between inauthentic, controlled, literature‐based reading programs and meaningful, authentic literature programs is laid out so that educators can better understand how to draw on the strengths and rich diversity of bilingual students in the classroom.
A low-tech, hands-on approach to teaching sorting algorithms to working students

Abstract This work focuses upon identifying the educational effects of “activity oriented” instructional techniques. We seek to determine which instructional methods produce enhanced learning and comprehension. Specifically we discuss the problem of learning sorting algorithms , a major topic in every Computer Science curriculum. We present a “low-tech hands-on” teaching method for sorting algorithms. We stress that there is no need to introduce the World-Wide Web or other high technology tools into this scenario. Primary targets for our teaching approach are part-time students that have little time for homework assignments, because they are supporting families and/or have full time jobs. In this paper we also report the results of a statistical evaluation of our approach. The application of our “hands-on” technique to teaching sorting algorithms produces a dramatic improvement of students' test scores.
Reflections from an interior world

Memoir of a Thinking Radish: An Autobiography. By Peter Medawar. Oxford University Press:1986. Pp.209. 12.50, 17.95.
Growth of mouse mammary epithelium in response to serum-free media conditioned by mammary adipose tissue

Abstract Normal mouse mammary epithelial cells, isolated from female Balb/c mice, were cultured as multicellular organoids either on or within collagen gel matrices. Cultures were maintained in either serum-free control medium or the same medium conditioned by mammary adipose tissue. A significant proliferative response above that observed in control cultures (2.5–3.5 fold increase) was induced by conditioned medium derived from either mammary fat-pad explants or isolated adipocytes. In addition, scanning electron microscopy revealed epithelial morphology to be preserved in a more in vivo -like state in the conditioned medium. We conclude that diffusible factors derived from the mouse mammary fat pad influence the proliferative activity and morphology of mammary epithelial cells in culture.
Evidence for a D2 dopamine receptor in frog retina that decreases cyclic AMP accumulation and serotonin N-acetyl transferase activity

The regulation of serotonin N-acetyltransferase (NAT) activity and cyclic AMP accumulation in the retina of the African clawed frog (Xenopus laevis) was studied using an in vitro eye cup preparation. Retinal NAT, a key enzyme in the synthesis of melatonin, is expressed as a circadian rhythm with peak activity at night. The increase of NAT activity at night appears to be mediated by cyclic AMP and is suppressed by light. Dopamine inhibits the nocturnal increase of retinal NAT activity; approximately 80% inhibition was observed with 1 microM dopamine. Dopamine at 1 microM did not stimulate retinal cyclic AMP accumulation. The effect of dopamine on NAT activity was antagonized by the D2-selective receptor antagonists spiperone and metoclopramide, but not by the putative D1 selective antagonist SCH 23390. The nocturnal rise in NAT activity was inhibited by LY 171555, a putative D2 selective agonist, but not by SKF 38393, a putative D1 selective agonist. LY 171555 also decreased cyclic AMP accumulation in eye cups incubated under similar conditions. Dopamine inhibited the stimulation of NAT activity in light by 3-isobutylmethylxanthine, but not that by dibutyryl cyclic AMP, suggesting that dopamine acts by decreasing cyclic AMP formation in the NAT-containing cells. Thus, the effects of dopamine on NAT activity may be mediated by a receptor with the pharmacological and biochemical characteristics of a D2 receptor.
Face recognition using direct, weighted linear discriminant analysis and modular subspaces

We present a modular linear discriminant analysis (LDA) approach for face recognition. A set of observers is trained independently on different regions of frontal faces and each observer projects face images to a lower-dimensional subspace. These lower-dimensional subspaces are computed using LDA methods, including a new algorithm that we refer to as direct, weighted LDA or DW-LDA. DW-LDA combines the advantages of two recent LDA enhancements, namely direct LDA (D-LDA) and weighted pairwise Fisher criteria. Each observer performs recognition independently and the results are combined using a simple sum-rule. Experiments compare the proposed approach to other face recognition methods that employ linear dimensionality reduction. These experiments demonstrate that the modular LDA method performs significantly better than other linear subspace methods. The results also show that D-LDA does not necessarily perform better than the well-known principal component analysis followed by LDA approach. This is an important and significant counterpoint to previously published experiments that used smaller databases. Our experiments also indicate that the new DW-LDA algorithm is an improvement over D-LDA.
The Momentary Realist

Research suggests that people initially take their subjective experience of an object as an accurate reflection of the object's properties, and only subsequently, occasionally, and effortfully consider the possibility that their experience was influenced by extraneous factors. The two studies reported here demonstrate that this is true even when the extraneous factors are the person's own dispositions. Dispositionally happy and unhappy participants were falsely told that they had been subliminally primed with words that might have influenced their moods, and were then asked to identify those words. Dispositionally happy participants were more likely than dispositionally unhappy participants to conclude that they had been primed with positive words, but only when they made these judgments under time pressure. The results are discussed in terms of correction models of human judgment.
Gold Cluster Diffusion Kinetics on Stoichiometric and Reduced Surfaces of Rutile TiO2(110)

Gold clusters on rutile TiO2 are known to serve as efficient oxidation catalysts for pollutants and environmental contaminants. However, the mechanism by which highly mobile small clusters migrate and aggregate into larger species relevant to gold’s catalytic activity remains unresolved. We report herein on ab initio simulations of the diffusion of atomic gold clusters up to the trimer on rutile TiO2(110) surfaces. We show that, on the stoichiometric surface, both the dimer and the trimer can exhibit relatively low surface mobility due to high energetic barriers for diffusion out of their energetic minima coupled with low barriers for the reverse motion. On the reduced surface, these clusters can diffuse relatively quickly between energetic minima within the oxygen vacancy site due to the large degree of vibrational entropy in their transition states. Our computed diffusion times provide a point of comparison for future experiments and will aid in development of models of gold cluster island sintering.
Ambient, indoor and personal exposure relationships of volatile organic compounds in Mexico City Metropolitan Area

Air pollution standards and control strategies are based on ambient measurements. For many outdoor air pollutants, individuals are closer to their sources (especially traffic) and there are important indoor sources influencing the relationship between ambient and personal exposures. This paper examines the relationship between volatile organic compounds (VOCs) measured at central site monitoring stations and personal exposures in the Mexico City Metropolitan Area. Over a 1-year period, personal exposures to 34 VOCs were measured for 90 volunteers from 30 families living close to one of five central monitoring stations. Simultaneous 24-h indoor, outdoor and central site measurements were also taken. Dual packed thermal desorption tubes and C(18) DNPH-coated cartridges were used for sampling VOCs and these were analyzed by GC/MS and HPLC, respectively. A factor analysis of the personal exposure data aided in grouping compounds by the most likely source type: vehicular (BTEX, styrene and 1,3-butadiene), secondary formed or photochemical (most aldehydes), building materials and consumer products (formaldehyde and benzaldehyde), cleaning solvents (tetrachloroethene and 1,1,1-trichloroethane), volatilization from water (chloroform and trichloroethene) and deodorizers (1,4-dichlorobenzene). Mean ambient, indoor and personal concentrations were 7/7/14 microg/m(3) for benzene, 1/3/3 for 1,3-butadiene, 6/20/20 for formaldehyde and 3/9/50 for 1,4-dichlorobenzene. Geometric mean (GM) ambient concentrations of trichloroethene and carbon tetrachloride were similar to GM personal exposures. While outdoor and indoor home GM concentrations for most vehicular related compounds (benzene, MTBE, xylenes and styrene) were comparable, the GM personal exposures were twice as high. Indoor concentrations of 1,3-butadiene, 1,1,1-trichloroethane, tetrachloroethane, chloroform, formaldehyde, valeraldehyde, propionaldehyde and n-butyraldehyde were comparable to personal exposures. For certain compounds, such as chloroform, aldehydes, toluene, 1,3-butadiene and 1,4-dichlorobenzene, GM personal exposures were more than two times greater than GM ambient measurements.
Time series analysis supporting the hypothesis that enhanced cosmic radiation during germ cell formation can increase breast cancer mortality in germ cell cohorts.

Techniques from cancer epidemiology and time series analysis were used to explore the hypothesis that cosmic radiation can induce germ cell changes leading to increases in future breast cancer mortality. A birth cohort time series for female breast cancer mortality was obtained using a model-independent, age-period-cohort analysis on age-specific mortality data for 1940–1990. The birth cohort series contained several oscillatory components, which were isolated and compared to the corresponding frequency components of a cosmic ray surrogate time series – Greenland ice-core 10Be concentrations. A technique, referred to as component wave-train alignment, was used to show that the breast cancer and cosmic ray oscillations were phase-locked approx. 25 years before the time of birth. This is consistent with the time of germ cell formation, which occurs during the fetal development stage of the preceding generation. Evidence is presented that the observable oscillations in the birth cohort series were residues of oscillations of much larger amplitude in the germ cell cohort, which were attenuated by the effect of the broad maternal age distribution. It is predicted that a minimum of 50% of breast cancer risk is associated with germ cell damage by cosmic radiation (priming event), which leads to the development of individuals with a higher risk of breast cancer. It is proposed that the priming event, by preceding other steps of carcinogenesis, works in concert with risk factor exposure during life. The priming event is consistent with epigenetic changes such as imprinting.
The Dark Side of School Leadership: Implications for Administrator Preparation

ABSTRACT In this article, we briefly review conceptual, theoretical, and empirical knowledge about a rapidly developing topic of organizational research, workplace mistreatment (e.g., bullying, mobbing, abuse, aggression) as well as our research about principal mistreatment of teachers. Following this, we discuss the importance of preparing prospective and practicing school principals to deal with personal and organizational factors that may interact to produce the kinds of leadership that seriously damage teachers, teaching, and student learning.
Microfluidic electroporation for cellular analysis and delivery

Electroporation is a simple yet powerful technique for breaching the cell membrane barrier. The applications of electroporation can be generally divided into two categories: the release of intracellular proteins, nucleic acids and other metabolites for analysis and the delivery of exogenous reagents such as genes, drugs and nanoparticles with therapeutic purposes or for cellular manipulation. In this review, we go over the basic physics associated with cell electroporation and highlight recent technological advances on microfluidic platforms for conducting electroporation. Within the context of its working mechanism, we summarize the accumulated knowledge on how the parameters of electroporation affect its performance for various tasks. We discuss various strategies and designs for conducting electroporation at the microscale and then focus on analysis of intracellular contents and delivery of exogenous agents as two major applications of the technique. Finally, an outlook for future applications of microfluidic electroporation in increasingly diverse utilities is presented.
A caveat on the Sharpless asymmetric dihydroxylation

Abstract Sharpless asymmetric dihydroxylation (AD) of homochiral synthetic intermediates 2a-c gave anomalous results: pairs of pseudoenantiomeric reagents, expected to generate complementary diastereomer ratios characteristic of double diastereoselection, instead generally furnished indistinguishable product mixtures. AD reactions of related monosubstituted olefins failed to pinpoint the structural features responsible for the unexpected behavior.
Effects of Special Instruction and Practice by Preschool Age Children on Performance of Object Projection and Stability Tests

Four criterion measures were used to assess the vulnerability to change of two variables, stability and object projection, included in a perceptual-motor enhancement program for 60 boys and girls enrolled in a 20-wk., 20-session program, as were 36 male and female controls. Both samples ranged in age from 2 yr., 0 mo. to 5 yr., 8 mo., and all were within the normal range of development. Three beam-walking tests (the beam at different heights and angles) and the overhand throw comprised the criterion measures used for assessment of program effectiveness in stability and object projection. Stability measures were distance divided by time, and object projection scores were determined by velocity of the overhand throw. A three-factor analysis of covariance was utilized to determine significant main effects of age, sex, and treatment. No significant differences were observed. Analysis by age and sex were significantly different on the Inclined Beam test. Analysis by treatment yielded significant differences on the Inclined Beam test and the Overhand Throw. Analysis by age and by sex showed a significant difference in the performance of the Overhand Throw. In summary, performance status of the overhand throw by preschool age children can be improved beyond maturational expectations through guided instruction.
Pectinases from boll weevil larvae, Anthonomus grandis

Abstract Assays were conducted throughout a wide pH range to measure the ability of extracts from third instar boll weevil larvae to degrade pectic substances. Pectin was deesterified and was depolymerized by both hydrolytic and trans -eliminative mechanisms. Sodium polypectate (deesterified pectin, or pectic acid) was depolymerized solely by trans -elimination. Addition of Ca 2+ failed to stimulate the trans -eliminative cleavage of either pectin or polypectate. It is possible that one or more of the pectinases from boll weevil larvae contribute to the abscission of infested cotton flower buds.
Non-linear response of liquid crystal spatial light modulators

Abstract This technical note outlines the results of a series of experiments performed on two spatial light modulators. The two modulators were a Hughes Corporation LCLV and an optically-addressed ferroelectric liquid crystal SLM fabricated by the University of Colorado at Boulder and Displaytech. These experiments were performed to determine the modulated response of the read beam as a function of the write light intensity.
Intraoperative neurophysiologic monitoring in adult spine surgery

Contemporary multimodal intraoperative neurophysiologic monitoring techniques have enabled spine surgeons to safely address complex spinal abnormalities while ensuring the functional integrity of the surrounding neural elements. Advancements in intraoperative neurophysiologic monitoring have facilitated the use of invasive techniques with more robust instrumentation. This review describes the nuances of intraoperative neurophysiologic monitoring in adult spine surgery with a critical emphasis on the diagnostic capabilities of various monitoring modalities.
Cellular electrophysiologic changes and “arrhythmias” during experimental ischemia and reperfusion in isolated cat ventricular myocardium

The cellular electrophysiologic consequences of both regional and global experimental ischemia and reperfusion were studied in the isolated cat myocardium, using conventional microelectrode techniques. Oxygenated Tyrode's solution was perfused through the left anterior descending and circumflex coronary arteries, while the preparation was superfused with Tyrode's solution gassed with 95% nitrogen and 5% carbon dioxide. Electrophysiologic characteristics of endocardial muscle cells were normal during coronary perfusion. When perfusion was discontinued for 30 minutes, resting membrane potential was decreased by 21.6 +/- 4.1%, action potential amplitude was decreased by 29.1 +/- 8.6% and action potential duration was decreased by 54.1 +/- 12.5% (p less than 0.001). Ectopic activity occurred after 5 to 10 minutes of ischemia and was more frequent in regional than in global ischemia (p less than 0.05). Rapid ventricular activity was observed in only 5 (17%) of 29 preparations during ischemia, whereas it occurred in 24 (83%) of 29 preparations during reperfusion. Rapid ventricular activity began 5 to 40 seconds (mean 19) after the start of reperfusion, stopped spontaneously after a mean of 113 +/- 211 seconds and occurred after both regional and global ischemia. The cellular electrophysiologic changes induced by ischemia returned to baseline values within the next 5 minutes. Repeated ischemia and reperfusion runs reproduced the same electrophysiologic changes and rapid ventricular activity. Coronary perfusion with procainamide (20 mg/liter) aggravated the ischemic depressions of action potential amplitude and action potential duration and increased conduction delay during ischemia, but it did not prevent rapid ventricular activity induced by reperfusion. In contrast, verapamil (1 mg/liter) perfusion did not affect the changes in action potential variables during ischemia but prevented reperfusion-induced rapid ventricular activity. Perfusion with calcium ion (Ca2+)-free Tyrode's solution just before ischemia and during reperfusion slowed or prevented reperfusion-induced rapid ventricular activity, without affecting the action potential changes during ischemia. It is concluded that, in these isolated perfused ventricular muscle preparations, different mechanisms may be operative in ischemic and reperfusion arrhythmias and Ca2+ may play an important role in the development of arrhythmias during the reperfusion phase of ischemia/reperfusion sequences.
Combined modality therapy for HIV-infected patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the anus: outcomes and toxicities.

Purpose: We report toxicity and survival data of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–infected men with anal carcinoma treated with combined modality therapy (CMT) of radiotherapy and concurrent chemotherapy. Methods and Materials: A retrospective review was performed on the records of 17 HIV-positive patients with anal squamous cell carcinoma treated with CMT at our institution between 1991 and 2004. Radiotherapy consisted of 30.6 to 45 Gy to the pelvis, total dose of 50.4 to 59.4 Gy to initial gross disease, at 1.8 Gy/fraction. Chemotherapy consisted of 5-fluorouracil and either mitomycin C or cisplatin. The mean follow-up was 25.6 months (median, 15.6 months; range, 4.6–106 months). Results: Significant acute skin and hematologic toxicity developed in 8 of 17 and 9 of 17 patients, respectively. One patient died 12 days after treatment of progressive disease and sepsis. Significant late toxic sequelae developed in 3 patients: 1 anorectal ulcer, 2 dermatologic (perianal ulceration, hemorrhagic perineal sores and suspected fissure). Fourteen of 15 patients with Stage I-III disease had a complete response; 2 complete responders subsequently had a relapse in the anorectum. For all patients, actuarial 18-month survival was 67%. For patients with Stage I-III disease, survival at last follow-up by low CD4 count ( 200) was 4 of 7 vs. 7 of 8, respectively; significant acute toxicities developed in 4 of 8 vs. 6 of 9, respectively. Conclusion: For HIV patients with anal carcinoma, CMT yields reasonable local control with significant acute complications. Survival is lower than in the general population, attributable more to the underlying infection than to the malignancy.
Durability studies of metal evaporated tapes in a linear tape drive: Role of head contour and tape tension

Magnetic performance of metal evaporated (ME) tape makes it a prominent storage media candidate for future data recording systems. However, the durability of ME tapes, limited by a number of tribological issues, is a major concern. A preliminary investigation on durability of ME tapes in a linear tape drive has been carried out. The effect of head contour and tape tension on the durability of the head-tape interface has been studied. An optical microscopy based technique has been used to measure the quality of factory-slit tape edges and after use in a liner tape drive. Debris distribution over the head surface at the end of the testing has been monitored. The ME tapes are found to be sensitive to both head contour and tape tension. Some desirable attributes of ME tapes required to improve durability are discussed.
Psychiatric Conditions and the Social Sciences

Psychiatric disorders have a distinct shape, come in types and are inherent in Homo sapiens. To a social scientist, disorders exist by stipulation: contingent on a psychiatric frame of reference. Their materiality has meaning only in that framework. What is important is what that material might correspond to in a society's systems of representation and associated institutions. If one assigns disorders some sort of 'objective' reality (a scientific ontology), then one needs to explain what that corresponds to in cultural terms. Moreover, if disorders exist and have an evolutionary history, one has to formulate how they might have been perceived and understood during phases of biological and cultural evolution. The article provides a way to conceptualize meanings psychiatric disorders have had in these two systems of representation and their change during evolution.
Streamlined volumetric landmark placement method for building three-dimensional active shape models

For the purpose of building a statistical shape model of a 3D object, a landmarked training set must be obtained. The purpose of this work is to develop a streamlined, slice-by-slice, volumetric landmarking scheme that requires no prior segmentation of the object and directly produces a set of corresponding landmark points for each 3D object in the training set. To achieve inter-object correspondence, the procedure's main feature is the establishment of an object-based coordinate system. Minimal user interaction is employed to locate an origin and axes on each volume by presenting the user with appropriate image slices and annotation tools, as dictated by the data under study. The volumes can then be aligned so that locating a physical point, relative to the established coordinate system, is repeatable from one instance of the object to another. For the purpose of verifying and demonstrating the proposed procedure, a set of test data consisting of image volumes of ten mangoes was obtained. Results of the landmarking scheme for this data, as well as for medical image data, demonstrate good object segmentation and landmark point correspondence.
Chlorophyll b deficiency in soybean mutants. I. Effects on photosystem stoichiometry and chlorophyll antenna size.

Abstract The stoichiometry of photochemical reaction centers and the chlorophyll (Chl) antenna size of the photosystems is correlated in thylakoid membranes from soybean wild-type and two Chl-b-deficient mutants (y9y9 and Y11Y11). Thylakoids from mutant plants displayed two characteristic changes in the organization of the photosystems. (a) The light-harvesting Chl antenna of PS IIα was lowered from about 250 Chl a + b in the wild type to about 150 Chl in y9y9, and 140 Chl molecules in the Y11y11 mutant. That of PS IIβ remained invariant at about 120 Chl a + b molecules in the wild type and y9y9 but was slightly smaller in the Y11y11. The antenna of PS I was lowered from 210 Chl a + b in the wild type to about 160–170 Chl molecules in the two mutants. (b) The photosystem stoichiometry was altered substantially from PS IIα/PS IIβ/PS I = 1.5:0.4:1.0 in the wild type, to 1.6:0.9:1.0 in the y9y9, and 1.6:1.2:1.0 in the Y11y11 chloroplasts. Accumulation of PS IIβ in the mutant thylakoids correlated with the degree of Chl b deficiency, suggesting that PS IIβ is an intermediate stage in the development of the mature PS II complex. Moreover, higher PS II/PS I ratios in the thylakoid membrane of y9y9 and Y11y11 suggest a response of the plant in countering the smaller antenna size of PS IIα and establishing a balanced absorption of light by the two photosystems.
Neuroimmunology: Treatment of anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis--time to be bold?

Treatment of anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis—a recently identified cause of autoimmune encephalitis—with aggressive immunosuppressive therapies has been a subject of debate. Now, a large observational cohort study suggests that most patients respond to immunotherapy, and that second-line therapies such as rituximab and cyclophosphamide may be beneficial.
Ultrafast spectroscopy and structural characterization of a photochromic isomerizing ruthenium bis-sulfoxide complex

Irradiation of [Ru(bpy)2(bpSOp)](PF6)2 (where bpy is 2,2′-bipyridine and bpSOp is 1,3-bis(phenylsulfinyl)propane) results in the formation of two new isomers, namely the S,O- and O,O-bonded species. The crystal structure of the bis-thioether and bis-sulfoxide complexes are reported. NMR spectroscopy of the bis-thioether complex in solution is consistent with the molecular structure determined by diffraction methods. Further, NMR spectroscopy of the bis-sulfoxide complex reveals two conformers in solution, one that is consistent with the solid state structure and a second conformer showing distortion in the aliphatic portion of the chelate ring. Time-resolved visible absorption spectroscopy reveals isomerization time constants of 91 ps in dichloroethane (DCE) and 229 ps in propylene carbonate (PC). Aggregate isomerization quantum yields of 0.57 and 0.42 have been determined in DCE and in PC, respectively. The kinetics of the thermal reversion from the O,O- to S,O-bonded isomer are strongly solvent dependent, occurring with rates of 2.41 × 10−3 and 4.39 × 10−5 s−1 in DCE, and 4.68 × 10−4 and 9.79 × 10−6 s−1 in PC. The two kinetic components are assigned to the two isomers identified in solution.
Increased "bile duct-pancreatic fluid" flow in rats pretreated with carbon tetrachloride.

Abstract Retrograde intrabiliary injection experiments in CCl 4 -pretreated (1 ml/kg, ip, 24 hr) rats suggested that the retrogradely injected solution was being diluted in the common bile duct portion of the biliary tree. This dilution was substantiated in subsequent experiments by a double-cannulation technique. To collect hepatic bile, a PE 10 cannula was placed in the proximal portion of the common bile duct near the liver hilus. To collect “bile duct-pancreatic fluid,” the distal portion of the ligated common bile duct was cannulated near the duodenum. CCl 4 pretreatment produced a 40% decrease in hepatic bile flow (57 ± 6 mg/min/kg, control, vs 35 ± 4, CCl 4 , mean ± SE) and a 600% increase in bile duct-pancreatic fluid flow (1.6 ± 0.3 mg/min/kg, control, vs 9.5 ± 1.8, CCl 4 ). The enhanced bile duct-pancreatic fluid flow did not involve a change in the rate of protein and amylase excretion from the pancreas. Also CCl 4 produced a decrease in the secretory pressure of hepatic bile and an increase in that of bile duct-pancreatic fluid. Thus, CCl 4 has the interesting action of increasing bile duct-pancreatic fluid flow at the same time it is decreasing hepatic bile flow.
Designing a Virtual Social Space for Language Acquisition

Middleverse de Espanol MdE is an evolving platform for foreign language FL study, aligned to the goals of ACTFL's National Standards and 2007 MLA report. The project simulates an immersive environment in a virtual 3-D space for the acquisition of translingual and transcultural competence in Spanish meant to support content-based and communicative classroom practices. This paper describes the design of MdE on Second Life as a dynamic environment of integrated technologies and its selection criteria, including the pedagogical principles guiding design and practices. Pedagogy is further explored conceptually in addressing language acquisition and cultural immersion within the broader communication's system of language, images and symbols of the digitalized age. The initial pilot demonstrates that negotiations of meaning and negative feedback intrinsic to virtual interactions promote repair moves. Furthermore, students' reconfiguring of conventionalized norms of participation results in increased exchanges in the classroom that stimulate student-centered discussions and meaningful collaborative work.
Load and store reuse using register file contents

The detection of opportunities for value reuse optimizations in memory operations require both the addresses and values associated with these operations to be available. Although the values are typically available in the physical register file, their presence cannot be exploited because no correspondence between the values and addressess is maintained. In this paper we propose the explicit management of the physical register file contents as a level in the memory hierarchy by supporting the Value Address Association Structure (VAAS). The entries in VAAS have a one-to-one correspondence with entries in the physical register file. For each value in the register file that is involved in a load or store operation, the associated information, including the memory address, are stored in the corresponding VAAS entry. Several optimization tasks can be performed using the combination of physical registers and VAAS.Specifically VAAS enables unified implementation of the following optimization tasks: (i) Store-to-load forwarding is performed without explicitly saving the stored values; (ii) Load-to-load forwarding is performed without saving loaded values in a reuse buffer; (iii) Silent stores are eliminated without saving or loading the prior value stored to the same addresses; (iv) Switching of bits in L1 cache is minimized without saving additional history; and (v) False memory access order violations are avoided without holding speculatively loaded values in the speculated loads table.Our experiments demonstrate that our implementation of non-speculative optimizations is highly effective as it eliminates memory references due to 60% (58%) of loads in SPECint95 (SPECfp95) and 25% (22.6%) of stores in SPECint95 (SPECfp95). On an average over 45% of cache references are eliminated due to non-speculative reuse. On an average the L1 switching activity was reduced by 7.75%.
A Simulation Study Examining Smartphone Destination Entry while Driving

A driving simulation study was performed to compare visual-manual (touch screen based) destination entry using a Samsung Galaxy S4 smartphone with the standard voice command based interface and a voice based "Hands-Free mode" that appears to be intended for use while driving (i.e. has a steering wheel icon adjacent to the mode selection menu and the voice interface menu screen is visually austere when compared with the standard voice mode). The performance of 24 drivers on an alphanumeric street address entry task was assessed with respect to subjective workload, task duration, standard deviation of lateral lane position, response to a detection response task (DRT), and heart rate. With the exception of heart rate, all evaluation measures indicate that the voice interfaces provide significant advantages over the touch interface. Furthermore, subjective workload ratings and task duration measures imply that the "Hands-Free" voice based mode may have some costs relative to the standard voice command based interface. Lastly, all destination entry methods were associated with an increased DRT reaction time and higher miss-rates compared to a baseline driving condition.
Sinusitis in the Bone Marrow Transplant Patient: Diagnosis and Management:

This study was undertaken to examine the frequency, morbidity, and management of sinus infections in patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation (BMT). Fifteen patients from February 1992 throu...
Histological and 1H magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging analysis of quinolinic acid-induced damage to the rat striatum

NAA has been described as a neuron-specific compound. NAA levels as determined by magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) have been used to determine degree of neuronal loss in several neurological diseases, but there has been limited work to document the accuracy and reliability of this technique. This study addresses this question quantitatively with histological analysis of cell viability and tissue shrinkage in quinolinic acid (QA)-induced damage of the rat striatum compared with 1H MRSI measurement of N-acetyl aspartate (NAA) as a noninvasive measure of neuronal loss. Both 1H MRSI and histology detect damage to the lesioned striatum; however, there are differences in the degree of damage as assessed by the two methods. Although partial-volume effects and tissue shrinkage may decrease the sensitivity of MR to such damage, the sparing of axons by QA may be another important factor in the differences in assessment. These results indicate that further studies of NAA metabolism and its distribution within neurons are warranted.
Choroid plexus cysts—Association with trisomy: Prospective review of 16,059 patients

Abstract OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the study was to determine the incidence of isolated choroid plexus cysts in association with trisomy 18 and other abnormalities. STUDY DESIGN: All patients from June 1992 through December 1995 were followed up after a screening ultrasonography. Any patient with a choroid plexus cyst was offered genetic counseling and an amniocentesis. Screening ultrasonographic examinations were performed on 16,059 patients, and 301 patients had a fetus with a choroid plexus cyst. One hundred thirty patients elected to have an amniocentesis. Patients were followed up to delivery. RESULTS: Two hundred sixty-three patients had an isolated choroid plexus cyst. Thirty-eight patients had a choroid plexus cyst associated with additional risk factors. Risk factors included advanced maternal age, additional ultrasonographic abnormalities, past obstetric history, or family history. No abnormalities were noted in the group with an isolated choroid plexus cyst. Four patients had an abnormality when the choroid plexus cyst was associated with an additional risk factor, including two patients with trisomy 18 and one with trisomy 21. CONCLUSION: An isolated choroid plexus cyst was not associated with a trisomy or other abnormalities in this study. When a choroid plexus cyst was associated with an additional risk factor, 10.5% of the patients had an abnormality. Amniocentesis is recommended when a choroid plexus cyst is found in association with additional risk factors. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 1997;176:1381-3.)
The log bucking problem: A comparison of dynamic programming versus branch and bound

Abstract Branch and bound and dynamic programming are often alternative techniques used to solve the same problems. One of the most prominent examples where both have been used is for the travelling salesman problem. The structure for that particular problem has created a domain in which complexity has established clear regions of solution technique dominance. In this paper, a practical problem, log bucking, is defined. Within this scenario, the branch and bound and dynamic programming models are tested against each other on a common set of problems. The problem domain is defined by parameters that form an outer boundary for the current limits of the problems solved by past research. The purpose of this paper is to establish regions of technique superiority as measured by accuracy and time to solution for the problem domain.
Use of echocardiography to assess function of hDAF-transgenic pig cardiac xenografts.

Abstract The current standard of hand palpation may not be a sensitive method to detect rejection in heterotopic heart xenotransplants (HHTx). We sought to assess the use of echocardiography to detect rejection of pig heart xenografts. Four cynomolgus monkeys received HHTx from hDAF-transgenic pigs. Immunosuppression was cyclophosphamide induction, cyclosporine, steroids, sodium mycophenolate, αGal trisaccharide polymer, ±soluble complement receptor type 1. Echocardiography was performed immediately after HHTx and three times a week postoperatively. Contractility on echo was scored as 1(none), 2(severely impaired), 3(moderate to severely impaired), 4(moderately impaired), 5(mild to moderately impaired), 6(mildly impaired), or 7(normal). Left ventricle wall thickness (LVWT) was measured in the anterior, inferior, posterior, lateral, and septal walls, the average was calculated. Impaired contractility or increase in LVWT were considered rejection and treated with steroids (solumedrol 15 mg/kg IV for 3–5 days). Palpation score (4-strong to 1-none) was recorded daily. Myocardial biopsies were obtained infrequently. At the time of first rejection, all four monkeys had an increase in LVWT and a decrease in contractility on echocardiography. Steroid treatment enhanced contractility in four monkeys and decreased LVWT in three monkeys. Palpation score remained at four of four during initial rejection episodes. Decrease in contractility and increase in LVWT on echocardiography appear to signify graft injury because steroid treatment results in improvement. Compared to palpation, echocardiography is more sensitive for assessing function of heterotopic pig heart xenografts. Echocardiography has, therefore, the potential to detect and treat early rejection episodes of heterotopic heart xenografts in nonhuman primates. This may help to achieve longer graft survival.
Tertiary structure of ribosomal RNA

Abstract The secondary structures of ribosomal RNAs have been deduced by comparative sequence analysis. The same approach has also suggested some higher-order tertiary interactions. Some of these are now being tested by direct experiment, and it is clear that tertiary interactions play an important functional role in stabilizing protein-binding sites and folding the ribosomal RNAs into their functional forms. At the same time, diverse experimental data on the relative positioning of RNA segments and proteins within the ribosome are being incorporated into low-resolution models of the ribosome, which reveal a distinctive domain organization of the RNA.