cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Interaction of Chromosomes bearing 1, 2 or 3 α-Globin genes in an american black family with α-thalassemia

Utilizing restriction endonuclease mapping and molecular hybridization we have determined the number and arrangement of the α-globin genes in members of an American Black family in which a-thalassemia is present. in addition to chromosomes bearing 0, 1 or 2 α-genes, an unusual chromosome bearing 3 α-globin genes was detected in 3 family members. in 2 family members the 3 a-gene chromosome was present opposite a chromosome containing a single a-globin gene; these cases represent the first reports of the ααα /-α genotype. the presence of the stigmata of “mild” α -thalassemia trait in one of these subjects indicates that the 3 α-gene chromosome probably does not direct the synthesis of significantly more α-globin chains than does the 2 α-gene chromosome.
Effect of Chilling Broiler Carcasses with Reconditioned Poultry Prechiller Water

Abstract Broiler prechiller overflow water was reconditioned using diatomaceous earth (DE) filtration and ozonation (30.4 mg/L ozone). Reconditioned chiller water meeting the United States Department of Agriculture recycling criteria was used in chilling broiler carcasses. The carcasses were compared chilled with fresh water and crushed ice or with reconditioned chiller water and ice. No significant treatment differences between measures of carcass quality including skin color, taste, or shelf life were detected. Furthermore, no significant differences between whole carcass rinse aerobic plate counts, or coliform and Salmonellae counts were found for carcasses chilled with fresh or reconditioned chiller water. In conclusion, poultry processing waters may be conserved through recycling practices without adversely affecting the wholesomeness of the carcass.
Fracture surface examination by selected area electron channelling of single crystals of Mo and 15 at. % Re alloy

Fracture surfaces of molybdenum single crystals deformed in simple shear between 10−3 and 163 sec−1 and 148 to 425K were examined using selected area electron channelling to determine the planes of fracture and to estimate the placticity associated with fracture. These results are correlated with topographic observations and with prior crystal plasticity. Similar, but less extensive, investigation was also made on crystals of molybdenum-15 at. % rhenium. Brittle fracture on several planes besides the {001} is one of the findings; rhenium alloying alters the fracture plane.
A note on starch hydrolysis and β‐glucuronidase activity among flavobacteria

Most flavobacteria tested with the fluorogenic substrate 4-methylumbelliferyl-beta-D-glucuronide possessed beta-glucuronidase (GUD), but when some of the same strains were tested with the API ZYM gallery, all were negative for GUD. Conflicting reports also appear in the literature about starch hydrolysis among flavobacteria. We observed that the results obtained can depend on the medium used and the length of incubation. Our results indicate that GUD activity and starch hydrolysis are more widely distributed in the genus Flavobacterium than previously reported.
On believing, saying and expressing

Examines the connections among believing, saying, and expressing in situations where the sentence used is a declarative sentence containing at least one proper name. Proposes a new way of understanding these connections. Develops an argument for the thesis that, although we typically believe the singular propositions expressed by our uses of name sentences, we rarely use such sentences because we believe those propositions.
In silico-aided design of a glycan ligand of sialoadhesin for in vivo targeting of macrophages.

Cell-specific delivery of therapeutic agents using ligand targeting is gaining interest because of its potential for increased efficacy and reduced side effects. The challenge is to develop a suitable ligand for a cell-surface receptor that is selectively expressed on the desired cell. Sialoadhesin (Sn, Siglec-1, CD169), a sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectin (Siglec) expressed on subsets of resident and inflammatory macrophages, is an attractive target for the development of a ligand-targeted delivery system. Here we report the development of a high-affinity and selective ligand for Sn that is an analogue of the natural ligand and is capable of targeting liposomal nanoparticles to Sn-expressing cells in vivo. An efficient in silico screen of a library of ∼8400 carboxylic acids was the key to identifying novel 9-N-acyl-substituted N-acetylneuramic acid (Neu5Ac) substituents as potential lead compounds. A small panel of targets were selected from the screen and synthesized to evaluate their affin...
THE CYTOCHEMICAL LOCALIZATION OF PEROXIDASE IN TOMATO FRUIT CELLS

The localization of peroxidase activity a t the ultrastructural level in tomato fruit (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill cv. Walters) has been accomplished using the diaminobenzidine histochemical reaction. In immature tomato fruit the peroxidase activity was most prominent at the inner surface of the tonoplast, although some cell wall activity was observed. However, in mature tomato fruit most of the peroxidase activity was localized in the cell wall. No activity was found in organelles or in the cytoplasm of either immature or mature fruit. The significance of these observations is discussed in relation to the physiological role of the enzyme in fruit ripening.
Scheidel and Crowell Revisited: A Descriptive Study of Group Proposal Sequencing.

In a landmark study, Scheidel and Crowell (1964) found evidence of two previously undescribed group discussional phenomena, “reach-testing,” or short sequences in which group members make, discuss, and evaluate a single proposal before moving on to another, and “spiraling,” or re-appearances later in discussion of proposals that had received positive evaluations when first discussed. The goal of the study reported here is to evaluate the generality of spiraling in a set of 87 group discussions. The results showed large variability among groups. Many groups spiraled little or not at all. A few groups spiraled substantially more than Scheidel and Crowell's model would suggest. These findings suggest that, as with the linear phase model, what was once considered to occur in all group discussions is in fact only valid for some. In addition, group discussion patterns were not associated with critical group output variables, providing evidence that the content of discussion matters much more than the order in w...
Characterization of tissue enzyme activities in rats with dorsomedial hypothalamic lesions and their sham-operated controls

Abstract The dorsomedial hypothalamic lesions (DMNL) resulted in a depression in food intake and linear and ponderal growth. The present study was designed to examine basic enzymatic adaptations to the lesions produced in the dorsomedial hypothalamus. Liver glucose-6-PO 4 dehydrogenase, citrate cleavage enzyme and malic enzyme were depressed in DMNL rats. These observations suggest a depression in fatty acid synthesis in liver tissue; however, no change in the enzyme fatty acid synthetase was observed. Adipose tissue enzymes involved in the conversion of dietary carbohydrate to fatty acid were not significantly altered in the DMN syndrome. Subtle changes in enzyme activity may be responsible for the development of the DMN syndrome. The mechanisms of the induced changes in enzyme activity remain to be elucidated.
A NOTE ON THE CHANGING GEOGRAPHY OF CANCER MORTALITY WITHIN METROPOLITAN REGIONS OF THE UNITED STATES

An investigation made of the geography of cancer mortality rates within the most populous metropolitan regions of the United States and the New Jersey-New York-Philadelphia metropolitan corridor shows that during the early 1950s, as expected, central city counties had substantially higher cancer mortality rates, especially respiratory and digestive, than did suburbs. Two decades later, differences between the central cities and the suburbs had narrowed and sometimes disappeared.
Zooplankton sampling strategies for environmental studies

This study characterizes sources of variation in total zooplankton abundance estimates at seven stations within the 5–10 m depth contour of southeastern Lake Michigan which were sampled monthly, April through October, for the 1975 to 1979 period. Month, year, and station were statistically significant factors affecting abundance estimates as were all interactions. Month was the largest source of variance either as a main effect or interaction. Smallest coefficients of variation were associated with subsampling (mean 6.1%) and replicate sampling (mean 15.1%). The between-station coefficient of variation averaged 39.0% and tended to be highest during the summer. For a given station and month, the between-year coefficient of variation averaged 73.4% while the between-month coefficient of variation for a single station in a given year averaged 95.1%. A table shows the estimated number of replications necessary to detect a true difference in two population means as a function of coefficient of variation. Environmental studies designed to detect spatial alterations should conduct such analyses on a cruise-by-cruise basis. Cruises should consist of a large number of stations and be conducted at least once during each season. Studies designed to detect temporal alterations require more frequent sampling because of the greater variability associated with temporal data sets. Because spatial variability adds little to the overall variability of such data sets, only a few representative stations need be sampled during each cruise.
Multiple types of voltage-dependent Ca2+-activated K+ channels of large conductance in rat brain synaptosomal membranes

K+-selective ion channels from a mammalian brain synaptosomal membrane preparation were inserted into planar phospholipid bilayers on the tips of patch-clamp pipettes, and single-channel currents were measured. Multiple distinct classes of K+ channels were observed. We have characterized and described the properties of several types of voltage-dependent, Ca2+-activated K+ channels of large single-channel conductance (greater than 50 pS in symmetrical KCl solutions). One class of channels (Type I) has a 200–250-pS single-channel conductance. It is activated by internal calcium concentrations greater than 10(-7) M, and its probability of opening is increased by membrane depolarization. This channel is blocked by 1–3 mM internal concentrations of tetraethylammonium (TEA). These channels are similar to the BK channel described in a variety of tissues. A second novel group of voltage-dependent, Ca2+-activated K+ channels was also studied. These channels were more sensitive to internal calcium, but less sensitive to voltage than the large (Type I) channel. These channels were minimally affected by internal TEA concentrations of 10 mM, but were blocked by a 50 mM concentration. In this class of channels we found a wide range of relatively large unitary channel conductances (65–140 pS). Within this group we have characterized two types (75–80 pS and 120–125 pS) that also differ in gating kinetics. The various types of voltage-dependent, Ca2+-activated K+ channels described here were blocked by charybdotoxin added to the external side of the channel. The activity of these channels was increased by exposure to nanomolar concentrations of the catalytic subunit of cAMP-dependent protein kinase. These results indicate that voltage-dependent, charybdotoxin-sensitive Ca2+-activated K+ channels comprise a class of related, but distinguishable channel types. Although the Ca2+-activated (Type I and II) K+ channels can be distinguished by their single-channel properties, both could contribute to the voltage-dependent Ca2+-activated macroscopic K+ current (IC) that has been observed in several neuronal somata preparations, as well as in other cells. Some of the properties reported here may serve to distinguish which type contributes in each case. A third class of smaller (40–50 pS) channels was also studied. These channels were independent of calcium over the concentration range examined (10(-7)-10(-3) M), and were also independent of voltage over the range of pipette potentials of -60 to +60 mV.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Planning primary health services from a body count

Abstract We were asked to comment on two other papers in this series. One using statistical simulation techniques to identify effective health care interventions permits us to discuss some common statistical and logical mistakes which result in wrong prescriptions. These include the old chestnuts of mixing apples with pears into aggregate measures of health, and of assuming that a chain of causes is a causal chain. The other article reviews the utility of actual health care programs and touches on community and organizational factors that make or break otherwise well-designed health care interventions. We now have the silver bullets of disease prevention and cure to fell most of the werewolves of ill health in developing areas. However, we lack the rifles to fire these bullets. Another article in this series exhorts us to polish the bullets we have and make more of them. We feel the rifles are more urgent.
Solution Rheology of Hyperbranched Polyesters and Their Blends with Linear Polymers

The rheological properties of different generations of hyperbranched polyesters in 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone solvent and their blends with a poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) are examined in this study. All the hyperbranched polyester solutions exhibit Newtonian behavior, with steady shear viscosities independent of shear rate. This indicates the absence of physical entanglements in these systems. In addition, solution viscosities are found to be only slightly affected by the different generations of the hyperbranched polymer. The polyesters have very small intrinsic viscosities, and their hydrodynamic radius scales as Rh ∼ M0.39, suggesting a less packed structure than dendrimers. All generations of the hyperbranched polyesters also show comparable apparent activation energies of flow over the temperature range studied. Replacing linear polymers with hyperbranched polymers causes large reductions in the blend viscosities. This behavior can be attributed to the decrease in both the number of physical entan...
Some physiological and developmental considerations of the temperature-gradient hypothesis of bone marrow distribution.

In adult humans, active bone marrow is confined to the proximal portion of the skeleton. Huggins and Blocksom (J. Exp. Med., 64: 253, '36) concluded that a high temperature is needed for hematopoiesis in rats. However, precise thermal regulation of human marrow was not found (Petrakis, J. Appl. Physiol., 4: 549, '52). Because these experiments made on the rat tail are the basis for a commonly accepted hypothesis attempting to explain marrow distribution in man, it was considered of importance to re-examine the caudal vertebra model upon which the temperature-gradient hypothesis is based. The sacral and coccygeal vertebrae were examined in rats, mice and humans with respect to marrow cellularity and temperature. In rats and mice and man it was observed that the transition between hematopoietically-active and inactive (fatty) vertebral marrow cavities is abrupt, occurring at the level of the first and second caudal and coccygeal vertebrae. All vertebrae distal to this point have fatty marrow. Of significance was the finding that the vertebral and coccygeal temperatures, as measured with a thermister needle, remain unaltered over this area of changing cellular activity. These anatomical and thermal observations of the caudal vertebrae of rats, mice, and humans indicate that the use of the tail as an experimental model does not support the hypothesis that temperature is a primary factor in the physiological maintenance of hematopoiesis in bone marrow. The possible relationship of hematopoietic activity to developmental and other factors peculiar to the caudal vertebra model is under study.
Degradation Of Optical Transmission In The Atmospheric Marine Boundary Layer

Optical transmission through the atmosphere is degraded both by the turbulence-induced fluctuation of the optical index, described by CnÂ², the turbulence structure constant for index, and also by extinction due to molecular absorption and scattering by fog or aerosols. Various techniques for direct optical measurement of CnÂ² and extinction are compared and the results shown to depend differently on the distribution of turbulence along the path. Tech- niques of field optical measurements of CnÂ² and extinction coefficient developed at NPS are presented. Results are compared with thermal and humidity fluctuations, and Knollenberg particle size spectra.
Trichodesmium Blooms and New Nitrogen in the North Pacific Gyre

Trichodesmium blooms are ubiquitous phenomena in tropical and subtropical oceanic waters. Due to their diazotrophic capability, these blooms may play a quantitative role in global new production. However, to date it has been difficult to quantify the importance of diazotrophy due to a combination of undersampling of natural populations and a lack of pure culture physiological studies. In August 1989, we encountered a >1 × 103 km2 Trichodesmium bloom in the North Pacific Ocean near the JGOFS Hawaii Ocean Time-Series (HOT) Station ALOHA. Analyses of particulate matter collected from the densest portion of the bloom showed enrichments of 3,375 to 7,787-fold for carbon (PC), nitrogen (PN), adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and pigments (chl a and phaeo) relative to typical non-bloom concentrations; phosphorus (PP) was enriched only 583-fold. Dissolved nitrogen pools (NH4, [NO3+NO2], DON) were also enriched within the bloom, and in the case of NH4 by 27-fold. Budget estimates based upon seasonally-averaged N imports to and exports from the epipelagic zone at Station ALOHA suggest that diazotrophic cyanobacterial blooms may be an important source of new nitrogen to the ecosystem. Two models are presented and discussed in order to account for the initiation of these open ocean blooms, and to explain the uncoupling of N and P concentrations and the selective enrichments of P which are required to favor the growth of diazotrophic microorganisms.
Two new kinds of retinal cells in the eye of a snail, Helix aspersa.

Electron microscopy of tentacular eyes of the common garden snail Helix aspersa , reveals four kinds of retinal cells: supportive, sensory type I, sensory type II, and ganglion. The last two are newly discovered and described in this study. Both kinds of receptor cells bear an array of microvilli distally and an axon basally. These elongated cells interdigitate with pigment-bearing supportive cells. Sensory cell type II differs from type I in possessing stubby microvilli, electron-lucent cytoplasm, and clusters of varying sized, cored and clear vesicles. A type I sensory cell has long villi and large aggregations of 800 A photic vesicles. Ganglion cells are found along the periphery of the retina. They are large, ovoid, and few in number. Each possesses a broad axon basally and many smaller fibers which extend laterally among the axonal fibers of the sensory cells. The neural organization is discussed.
Rat and Drosophila synaptotagmin 4 have opposite effects during SNARE-catalyzed membrane fusion.

Synaptotagmins (Syt) are a large family of proteins that regulate membrane traffic in neurons and other cell types. One isoform that has received considerable attention is SYT4, with apparently contradictory reports concerning the function of this isoform in fruit flies and mice. SYT4 was reported to function as a negative regulator of neurotrophin secretion in mouse neurons and as a positive regulator of secretion of a yet to be identified growth factor from muscle cells in flies. Here, we have directly compared the biochemical and functional properties of rat and fly SYT4. We report that rat SYT4 inhibited SNARE-catalyzed membrane fusion in both the absence and presence of Ca2+. In marked contrast, fly SYT4 stimulated SNARE-mediated membrane fusion in response to Ca2+. Analysis of chimeric molecules, isolated C2 domains, and point mutants revealed that the C2B domain of the fly protein senses Ca2+ and is sufficient to stimulate fusion. Rat SYT4 was able to stimulate fusion in response to Ca2+ when the conserved Asp-to-Ser Ca2+ ligand substitution in its C2A domain was reversed. In summary, rat SYT4 serves as an inhibitory isoform, whereas fly SYT4 is a bona fide Ca2+ sensor capable of coupling Ca2+ to membrane fusion.
Reciprocal Influences of Personality and Job Characteristics Across Middle Adulthood

The present research uses an economically diverse, middle-aged sample to examine the concurrent and longitudinal interplay between personality and occupational experiences. Using the Five-Factor Model of personality and the Demand-Control Model of the occupational environment as guiding frameworks, participants (N=722) reported on their personality, job characteristics, and occupational history; a subset (n=297) made the same ratings approximately 10 years later. Measured concurrently, emotionally stable, extraverted, open, and conscientious participants reported jobs with greater decision-making latitude, whereas disagreeable participants had more physically demanding and dangerous jobs. Longitudinal cross-lagged analyses revealed that personality was associated with changes in decision latitude, hazardous working conditions, and physical demands. None of the job characteristics predicted change in personality at the factor level. Thus, personality shaped occupational experiences, but occupational experiences had minimal impact on personality. Support for the Five-Factor Theory perspective and implications for environmental approaches to personality development are discussed.
Controlling subtilisin activity and selectivity in organic media by imprinting with nucleophilic substrates

The activity and substrate specificity of subtilisin-catalyzed acylation of nucleosides in organic solvents can be controlled by lyophilizing the enzyme from an aqueous solution containing the substrate. This “molecular imprinting” technique was examined using thymidine as a model nucleoside, and the resulting subtilisin preparation was up to 50-fold more reactive toward thymidine acylation in nearly anhydrous tetrahydrofuran than subtilisin lyophilized from aqueous buffer in the absence of the nucleoside. Although several compounds lyophilized with subtilisin, including thymine and ribose, improved the rate of thymidine acylation, the thymidine-imprinted enzyme was the most efficient catalyst for this reaction. Furthermore, it was possible to alter the substrate selectivity of subtilisin by lyophilizing the enzyme in the presence of a different nucleophilic substrate. For example, imprinting made possible the discrimination between structurally different (i.e., sucrose versus thymidine) as well as struct...
Data Mining and Service Rating in Service-Oriented Architectures to Improve Information Sharing

The evolution of Web services and service oriented architectures (SOA) has enabled removal of many technological barriers that have historically limited information sharing across the United States intelligence community (IC). During the past decade, Internet and Web technologies have facilitated the exponential growth of data and information available creating information overload and forcing the need for tools to manage information. Just as the Internet brought about information overload, the growth in development and deployment of services will lead to service overload in the coming decade. To address the challenge, this paper proposes an extended SOA infrastructure to facilitate service discovery and automate service orchestration by using data mining and service rating technologies. Data mining, the process of extracting patterns and knowledge hidden from large volumes of raw data, includes techniques such as classification, clustering, association rules, and sequential patterns. Service rating, on the other hand, involves techniques of capturing and incorporating user review and ratings on service performance, effectiveness, and reliability. By applying these technologies to an analytical environment within the IC, this paper demonstrates how they can help with service categorization, service discovery, automated service composition and construction of dynamic communities of interest (COIs), which empowers analysts to collaboratively solve complex problems
Social defeat alters the acquisition of cocaine self-administration in rats: role of individual differences in cocaine-taking behavior.

Rationale: It is known that social defeat can modulate cocaine self-administration. However, it is unclear whether this psychosocial stressor affects drug-taking behavior to the same extent across all individual animals, particularly those with differing propensities to self-administer psychostimulants. Objective: This study examined the effect of social defeat on cocaine self-administration in animals that differ in novelty-seeking behavior that predicts differences in drug self-administration. Methods: Male Sprague-Dawley rats were first classified into high-responder (HR) and low-responder (LR) groups. HR and LR rats were categorized based on their locomotor activity in a novel environment, with HR rats exhibiting higher locomotor activity than LR rats. Then, male rats were exposed on four occasions to an aggressive Long Evans male rat over the course of 4 days. Control rats were not exposed to the social defeat. All rats were subsequently implanted with jugular catheters and 3 days later placed into the self-administration box to study the acquisition of cocaine self-administration (0.25 mg per infusion). Results: HR non-defeated animals self-administered more cocaine than the LR non-defeated animals. Following social defeat, the acquisition of cocaine self-administration is significantly delayed in HR rats and enhanced in LR rats. Conclusion: The unique patterns of responsiveness in the HR and LR animals suggest that social defeat plays a role of equalizer of individual differences in drug-taking behavior.
Temporal characteristics of a SASE FEL

We have performed a single-shot, time-resolved measurement of the output field of a SASE FEL using the frequency-resolved optical gating (FROG) technique. The measurement reveals the phase and the amplitude of the SASE output as functions of time and frequency, hence enables us to perform a full characterization of the SASE FEL output. We examined both the single-shot field evolution as well as the statistics over multiple shots on the phase and intensity evolution.
Blog mining-review and extensions: From each according to his opinion

Blogs provide a type of website that contains information and personal opinions of the individual authors. The purpose of this paper is to review some of the literature aimed at gathering opinion, sentiment and information from blogs. This paper also extends the previous literature in a number of directions, extending the use of knowledge from tags on blogs, finding the need for domain specific terms to capture a richer understanding of mood of a blog and finding a relationship between information in message boards and blogs. The relationship between blog chatter and sales, and blogs and public image are also examined.
The Shape of Matthew's Q Text of the Centurion at Capernaum: Did it Mention Delegations?

Le motif d'une double delegation dans Luc 7,1-10, omis dans Matthieu 8,5-13, est etudie pour deceler s'il s'agit d'une redaction de Luc ou d'une omission d'un motif de la source Q par Matthieu. L'A. analyse la forme chez Matthieu et essaye une reconstruction de la source Q de Matthieu pour discerner son caractere, la tendance de Matthieu et l'origine du motif de la double delegation
Effects of hepatic zonal oxygen levels on hepatocyte stress responses.

Background Hepatocytes spend their lifetimes in a gradient of oxygen, hormones, and enzymes. We used a three-dimensional Matrigel model to determine whether hepatocytes cultured at perivenous (zone 3) oxygen levels differed in susceptibility to anoxia-induced cell injury compared with hepatocytes cultured at periportal (zone 1) oxygen levels. Materials and methods Hepatocytes were harvested from Sprague Dawley rats and cultured at 9% oxygen (hepatic zone 1) or 5% oxygen (hepatic zone 3) and stressed at 0% oxygen. Microscopy, real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were used to assess cell viability, mitochondrial potential, acute phase responses, and membrane blebbing. Results Hepatocytes cultured in Matrigel with HepatoZyme medium at zone 1 and zone 3 oxygen conditions were viable for 1 wk and showed acute phase responses as measured by interleukin-6-induced fibrinogen production. In response to 3 h anoxia, cells maintained at the perivenous oxygen level showed increased membrane blebbing and increased loss of mitochondrial membrane potential in comparison to the periportal oxygen cultured cells. Cells at perivenous oxygen also showed a reduced ability to recover following reoxygenation. Conclusions Hepatocytes can remain viable and functional for extended periods in culture at low oxygen levels that mimic the hepatic perivenous environment, yet these cells are more susceptible to anoxia-induced damage than hepatocytes cultured at the periportal oxygen level. The small population of perivenous hepatocytes may be critical in determining the fate of the liver during ischemia/reperfusion since hepatocytes cultured at that concentration appear to be more labile in response to anoxia.
Recognizing daily activities with RFID-based sensors

We explore a dense sensing approach that uses RFID sensor network technology to recognize human activities. In our setting, everyday objects are instrumented with UHF RFID tags called WISPs that are equipped with accelerometers. RFID readers detect when the objects are used by examining this sensor data, and daily activities are then inferred from the traces of object use via a Hidden Markov Model. In a study of 10 participants performing 14 activities in a model apartment, our approach yielded recognition rates with precision and recall both in the 90% range. This compares well to recognition with a more intrusive short-range RFID bracelet that detects objects in the proximity of the user; this approach saw roughly 95% precision and 60% recall in the same study. We conclude that RFID sensor networks are a promising approach for indoor activity monitoring.
REGISTRATION OF NEURAL MAPS THROUGH VALUE-DEPENDENT LEARNING : MODELING THE ALIGNMENT OF AUDITORY AND VISUAL MAPS IN THE BARN OWL'S OPTIC TECTUM

In the optic tectum (OT) of the barn owl, visual and auditory maps of space are found in close alignment with each other. Experiments in which such alignment has been disrupted have shown a considerable degree of plasticity in the auditory map. The external nucleus of the inferior colliculus (ICx), an auditory center that projects massively to the tectum, is the main site of plasticity; however, it is unclear by what mechanisms the alignment between the auditory map in the ICx and the visual map in the tectum is established and maintained. In this paper, we propose that such map alignment occurs through a process of value-dependent learning. According to this paradigm, value systems, identifiable with neuromodulatory systems having diffuse projections, respond to innate or acquired salient cues and modulate changes in synaptic efficacy in many brain regions. To test the self-consistency of this proposal, we have developed a computer model of the principal neural structures involved in the process of auditory localization in the barn owl. This is complemented by simulations of aspects of the barn owl phenotype and of the experimental environment. In the model, a value system is activated whenever the owl carries out a foveation toward an auditory stimulus. A term representing the diffuse release of a neuromodulator interacts with local pre- and postsynaptic events to determine synaptic changes in the ICx. Through large-scale simulations, we have replicated a number of experimental observations on the development of spatial alignment between the auditory and visual maps during normal visual experience, after the retinal image is shifted through prismatic goggles, and after the reestablishment of normal visual input. The results suggest that value-dependent learning is sufficient to account for the registration of auditory and visual maps of space in the OT of the barn owl, and they lead to a number of experimental predictions.
Strategies for management of single-tooth extraction sites in aesthetic implant therapy

Achieving predictable aesthetic outcomes following the planned removal of a natural tooth suffering from structural, endodontic, or periodontal compromise depends on a multitude of factors that, once identified, guide the implant team in selecting the surgical and prosthetic treatment options best suited for the individual clinical scenario. This article presents pertinent information regarding systematic patient evaluation and special treatment planning considerations for patients facing the loss of a single tooth in an area of high aesthetic importance. The rationale for and details of performing the Bio-Col site preservation technique at the time of tooth removal; guidelines for immediate versus delayed implant placement; selection and sequencing of site-development procedures according to the types of alveolar ridge defects encountered following tooth removal despite the use of site preservation; and a description of prosthetic techniques necessary for the successful management of single-tooth extraction sites in areas of aesthetic concern also are reviewed.
Progesterone stimulates mitochondrial activity with subsequent inhibition of apoptosis in MCF-10A benign breast epithelial cells

The effects of progesterone on breast epithelial cells remain poorly defined with observations showing both proliferative and antiproliferative effects. As an example, progesterone levels correlate...
THE RULES ARE DIFFERENT HERE An Institutional Comparison of Cities and Homeowners Associations

Homeowners associations (HOAs) are quickly becoming the most common and fastest growing units of local governance in the United States. Like the cities to which they are often compared, HOAs provide services, regulate activities, levy taxes, and ultimately elect their governing bodies. Because the courts view HOAs as business enterprises rather than as governments, HOAs’ governing provisions are not required to conform to basic democratic principles for participation. This article uses theories from the new institutionalism to compare the typical governing provisions of cities and HOAs to consider how these provisions shape civic life in urban areas.
Effect of terazosin on urine storage and voiding in the aging male with prostatism

Patients in a private practice, evaluated for prostatism due to benign prostatic hypertrophy were offered the options of medical treatment with the alpha blocker terazosin, surgical treatment, or continued observation. Nineteen men accepted terazosin treatment and are the subjects of the present series. They were treated over a mean period of 8 months, the longest treatment lasting over 22 months. Dosage was started at 1 mg/d and increased as tolerated to 2, 5, and 10 mg/d over the test period. Extensive testing including invasive urodynamics, multiple voiding diaries, and symptoms scores at each dosage level was carried out. We found that flow rates increased moderately from baseline in a dose dependent fashion. At the 10 mg/d dosage some patients achieved flow rates in the low normal range. Patients on treatment documented a decrease in the number of voidings per day, a decrease in nocturia, an increase in bladder capacity and the volume of each voiding. On the other hand, patients frequently did not appreciate changes in their voiding patterns, as reflected in their responses to the symptom questionnaires. We could not demonstrate significant changes in bladder pressures on cystometry either during filling or voiding. Our data suggested that terazosin may well have a direct effect on the fundus of the aging bladder to increase capacity, and, through the well-known relationship between voided volume and flow rate, increase urinary flow rate.
Computer simulation of sulfobromophthalein kinetics in the rat using flow-limited models with extrapolation to man.

A linear, flow-limited mathematical model of drug kinetics was used to simulate total sulfobromophthalein (BSP) kinetics in normal anesthetized rats during intravenous infusions and following rapid intravenous injections. Four parameters were used to characterize the distribution and biliary and urinary excretion of BSP: liver- to- plasma concentration ratio, extrahepatic tissue- to- plasma concentration ratio, liver clearance rate constant, and renal plasma clearance rate constant. The same parameters appear to characterize the kinetics of BSP in man through the successful application of “scale- up” techniques utilizing data from experiments in rats. Plasma levels of BSP corresponding to intravenous infusions and rapid intravenous injections in man are approximated by computer simulation.
Microdisk tunable resonant filters and switches

Tunable, vertically coupled InP microdisk resonant filters having a p-i-n active region and utilizing free carrier injection (FCI) to alter the index of refraction are presented for the first time. The fabricated devices allow single-mode operation and exhibit a large free spectral range (FSR=10 nm) with high Q values of 7000. Tuning of the resonant characteristics by free carrier injection is demonstrated. The resonant wavelengths of the disk cavity blue-shifts at a rate of 1 nm/mA.
Redesign of the West Point logistics warehouse support system

The result of the Most Efficient Organization (MEO) contract awarded in September 2002 was a reduction in personnel strength and the consolidation of operating functions for the Directorate of Logistics (DOL) at the United States Military Academy (USMA). The purpose of our research is to analyze the USMA warehouse operations that support West Point and other local military installations and units. Our research includes an analysis of the current warehouse system, demand for services, and resource allocation. We developed a value model, evaluation measures and a discrete event model to analyze several alternatives. Our results will be used by the client to improve the efficiency and productivity of the downsized organization
The Interaction of Pulmonary Physiology and Swallowing: A Juggling Act for the Physician and Speech-Language Pathologist

Abstract Patients who are dependent upon tracheostomy and/or ventilator use present a particular challenge to health-care providers. The interaction of pulmonary physiology and deglutition is compl...
Song learning in brood-parasitic indigobirds Vidua chalybeata: song mimicry of the host species.

Abstract Brood-parasitic village indigobirds, Vidua chalybeata , were bred in captivity and foster-reared by their normal host, red-billed firefinch, Lagonosticta senegala , or by an experimental foster species, Bengalese finch, Lonchura striata . Male indigobirds reared by Bengalese finches developed the songs of Bengalese finches, and males reared by firefinches developed songs of firefinches. Males copied their foster father only when they had lived with him long after independence (45 days post-fledging), while males separated normally at independence (22–24 days post-fledging) copied songs of other individuals and not songs of their foster father. Males reared by Bengalese finches showed no preference to learn firefinch song over songs of the experimental foster species or other control finch species even when they had lived with firefinches as companions from the time of fledging to independence. Males copied several song themes, acquired the same number of mimicry songs, and acquired their songs at the same age, whether reared by Bengalese finches or by firefinches. When they lived with other indigobirds, the male indigobirds copied mimicry songs of male indigobirds that mimicked the same foster species. We predicted mimicry-song specificity and repertoire size in experimental indigobirds from a hypothesis of an early developmental period when young indigobirds focus their attention on their foster parents, and a later period when they direct their attention to other birds with similar songs. The predictions, based on field observations of wild birds, were that (1) males reared by a novel foster species other than the normal host would learn the song of that foster species, and (2) males that left their foster parents at the normal time of independence would copy the songs of other individuals, including other adult indigobirds that mimicked the same foster species. Begging calls of young indigobirds did not mimic the calls of young firefinches. Indigobirds reared alone, or with young of the normal host or of the experimental foster species, all developed begging calls in adult song that resembled their own begging as nestlings and fledglings, and only males that heard other adult indigobirds with firefinch-mimicry begging developed firefinch begging in their song. The incorporation of the innate begging calls as well as the learned begging calls into adult song, and the modification of the song themes of their individual song models, suggest that song development involves processes in addition to copying the songs of their own foster species and of older adult male indigobirds with songs like their own foster parents.
Changes in Egg Proteins Occurring During Cold Storage of Shell Eggs

Abstract EACH year several million cases of eggs are placed in cold storage during the months of highest production and lowest prices to be used at a time of lower production and higher prices. Longer holding times have been somewhat common in recent years because of government purchases of eggs to maintain support prices. Changes occurring in the composition of shell eggs during storage are nutritionally important. That there are chemical changes occurring in shell eggs during storage has been recognized for many years. One of the earliest observations was the increase in the ammonia nitrogen content of stored eggs (Lindit and Hussen, 1917). Other changes early observed were a decrease in the moisture content of the albumen and an increase in the moisture content of the yolk (Jenkins et al., 1920), a rapid increase in the pH of the egg albumen (Sharp and Powell, 1927), and a decrease in the . . .
Variational analysis of large power grids by exploring statistical sampling sharing and spatial locality

We propose a parametric random walk algorithm to facilitate a feasible evaluation of a few critical network nodes under the influence of a large number of variation sources in a power grid. By combining statistical sampling sharing with random walks, we devise an efficient localized sensitivity analysis for large power distribution networks such that the analysis can be conducted without solving the complete network. We further show that this sampling-based parametric analysis can be extended from the first order sensitivity analysis to a more accurate second order analysis. By exploiting the natural spatial locality inherent in our algorithm formulation, the second order parametric analysis can be conducted very efficiently even for a large number of global and local variation sources. The proposed approach is demonstrated by analyzing large power grids under the influence of process and current loading variations to which the application of the standard brutal-force circuit simulation becomes completely infeasible. Our results have demonstrated the superior performance of the proposed algorithm both in terms of accuracy and runtime.
The specification and enforcement of advanced security policies

In a distributed multi-user environment, the security policy must not only specify legitimate user privileges but also aid in the detection of the abuse of the privileges and adapt to perceived system threat conditions. This paper advocates extending authorization policy evaluation mechanisms with a means for generating audit data allowing immediate notification of suspicious application level activity. It additionally suggests that the evaluation of the policies themselves adapt to perceived network threat conditions, possibly affected by the receipt of such audit data by other processes. Such advanced policies assist in detecting and responding to intrusion and misuse and they allow more efficient utilization of security services, such as authentication, audit, and notification. We present an authorization framework, which enables the representation and enforcement of advanced security policies. Our approach is based on expanding the policy evaluation mechanism with the ability to generate real time actions, such as checking the current system threat level and sending a notification.
Developing Scientific Literacy A Sociocultural Approach

Using a sociocultural framework, the authors describe scientific literacy and the importance of mediated activities for scientific learning. The difference between empirical and theoretical learning is introduced as an important aspect for teachers to understand as they work with students learning scientific concepts. Components of scientific literacy are described, and recommendations for teaching in the zone of proximal development are provided. A conceptual model adapted from ethnomathematics is introduced to demonstrate the effect of theoretical learning on cultural change, using an intergenerational study from Chiapas, Mexico, as an example.
Philander opossum (Four-eyed opossum)

The karyotype of this species is similar to most didelphids with 22 chromosomes except Didelphis virginiana (Folio 51). The karyotypes presented here are gifts of Dr. Alfred L. Gardner, who collected the male specimen from Pacuare, Rio Pacuare, Prov. Cantago, Costa Rica and the female from Finca Ocuilapa, 10 km S.E. Tonala, Chiapas, Mexico. Bone marrow was used for cytological preparations.
Pressure topography metrics for high-resolution pharyngeal-esophageal manofluorography-a normative study of younger and older adults.

Background We aimed to define normative values for novel pressure topography metrics for high-resolution pharyngeal-esophageal manofluorography. The effects of age, gender, and bolus properties were examined. Methods Concurrent high-resolution manometry (HRM) and videofluoroscopy data were collected from 22 younger (aged 21–40) and 22 older (aged 60–80) healthy subjects. Pressure topography was analyzed by correlating pressure domains with videofluoroscopic events. Nine pressure topography metrics of the pharyngeal and proximal esophageal swallow were extracted; four of these were also compared with previously obtained esophageal HRM studies to assess the effects of catheter diameter. Key Results Older individuals exhibited more vigorous contractility in the pharynx than did younger subjects with all bolus types, but the greatest values for both groups were with effortful swallow and on that measure the age groups were similar. Upper esophageal sphincter (UES) intrabolus pressure during sphincter opening was also greater in the older subjects. Some gender differences were observed, particularly related to proximal esophageal contractile vigor. Bolus consistency had no consistent effect. Studies using the larger catheter diameter resulted in significantly greater contractile vigor in the UES and proximal esophagus. Conclusions & Inferences Older adults exhibited more vigorous pharyngeal contractions than young adults, albeit within a similar range of capacity, perhaps reflecting a compensatory response to other age-related physiological changes. Greater UES intrabolus pressures observed during bolus transit in the older group likely reflect reduced UES compliance with age. Normative data on novel HRM metrics collected in this study can serve as a reference for future clinical studies.