cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
THE DETRITUS PROBLEM AND THE FEEDING AND DIGESTION OF AN ESTUARINE ORGANISM

ABSTRACT A review of past and present research on ecological aspects of food supplied to and used by estuarine organisms indicates that one major problem encountered is a lack of specific knowledge concerning pathways and rates of transfer of carbon and nitrogen from the producers to the consumers. This is especially true for suspension and deposit feeding animals which tend to be nonselective in their feeding habits. Recent papers which relate to these problems describe (1) salt marsh systems which have a net import instead of export of POC, PON, and nutrients; (2) suspended organic detritus which is synthesized by bacteria and not the result of bacterial decomposition; (3) suspended detritus with a low C/N ratio which is refractory to digestion by bacteria and suspension feeders. Physiological techniques of assessing digestive capabilities of estuarine organisms have not been widely used in ecological studies; rather, there commonly has been a usage of terms (herbivore, detritivore, suspension or deposit feeder) which is based upon ingestion or gut contents but not based upon digestion, net assimilation, or growth rates. For example, natural populations of the bay scallop, Argopecten irradians, ingest a mixture of POC which is 80% detritus and microheterotrophs and 20% phytoplankton. However, in laboratory experiments, the growth rate of scallops is greatest on a diet of mixed phytoplankton and slow but continuous on fresh detritus. In contrast, scallops lose weight on aged detritus (C/N ratio 12/1) and on protein rich fish food (C/N ratio 6/1).
Knowledge, Tradition, and Community Predict Success for BLM Wild Horse Adoptions in Colorado and Texas

With almost 50,000 wild horses in holding facilities and declining adoption rates, the U.S. Bureau of Land Management’s wild horse adoption program is in crisis. To improve our understanding of Bureau of Land Management wild horse adopters, we conducted three in-depth interviews with 52 adopters in Colorado and Texas, spaced over their first year of adoption. Questions sought information on the adopters, their adopted horses, and their adoption experiences. The participants who completed all three interviews were uniformly satisfied with their adoptions. We argue that three factors inherent to wild horse culture in these states supported adopter satisfaction: adopters’ previous knowledge about horses, a western North American tradition that values wild horses, and participation in wild horse organizations. A lack of this culture in other regions may explain why they are less welcoming to wild horses and have lower rates of adoptions.
The politics of shame in the motivation to virtue: Lessons from the shame, pride, and humility experiences of LGBT conservative Christians and their allies

Philosophical views defending shame as a catalyst for moral virtue are at odds with empirical data indicating that shame often yields psychologically unhealthy responses for those who feel it, and ...
Regeneration associated transcriptional signature of retinal microglia and macrophages

Zebrafish have the remarkable capacity to regenerate retinal neurons following a variety of damage paradigms. Following initial tissue insult and a period of cell death, a proliferative phase ensues that generates neuronal progenitors, which ultimately regenerate damaged neurons. Recent work has revealed that Muller glia are the source of regenerated neurons in zebrafish. However, the roles of another important class of glia present in the retina, microglia, during this regenerative phase remain elusive. Here, we examine retinal tissue and perform QuantSeq. 3′mRNA sequencing/transcriptome analysis to reveal localization and putative functions, respectively, of mpeg1 expressing cells (microglia/macrophages) during Muller glia-mediated regeneration, corresponding to a time of progenitor proliferation and production of new neurons. Our results indicate that in this regenerative state, mpeg1-expressing cells are located in regions containing regenerative Muller glia and are likely engaged in active vesicle trafficking. Further, mpeg1+ cells congregate at and around the optic nerve head. Our transcriptome analysis reveals several novel genes not previously described in microglia. This dataset represents the first report, to our knowledge, to use RNA sequencing to probe the microglial transcriptome in such context, and therefore provides a resource towards understanding microglia/macrophage function during successful retinal (and central nervous tissue) regeneration.
Abstract 346: Pre-Operative Protein and Methionine Restriction Does Not Impair Wound Healing in a Murine Mcfarlane Wound Healing Model

Background: Numerous pre-clinical studies have demonstrated that pre-conditioning before surgery with various forms of dietary restriction enhances the surgical stress response leading to improved ...
Behavioral Health Approaches to Preventing and Treating Substance Use Disorders

This chapter reviews the literature on behavioral approaches to preventing and treating SUDs, focusing on alcohol and illicit drugs, behavioral therapies, and a discussion of behavioral treatments for individuals who have co-occurring substance use and other mental disorders. After reviewing the literature, the authors present critical issues related to behavioral strategies for SUD prevention and treatment, such as the need for better coordination of care within healthcare systems.
Ionizing Radiation Effects Spectroscopy for Analysis of Single-Event Transients

Ionizing radiation effects spectroscopy (IRES) for characterization of single-event transients (SETs) in space-deployed electronics is demonstrated. IRES enhances time-frequency spectroscopy techniques with statistical analysis, allowing for the capture of subtle changes in circuit dynamics. This is illustrated through the use of experimental data captured from two-photon absorption laser experiments on a phase-locked loop (PLL) designed and fabricated in a 130 nm CMOS technology, and further explained through the use of behavioral modeling of the PLL. The technique leverages the computational benefits of discrete windowed analysis, requiring as little as 0.2% of the data samples required in high-resolution discrete Fourier transform analysis while providing a statistical method for accurately estimating the SET characteristics.
Examining Minor League Baseball Spectator Nostalgia: A Neuroscience Perspective

Abstract The purpose of this study was to explore nostalgia’s effect on MiLB spectators’ psychological, emotional, and behavioral responses. Mobile encephalography (EEG) headsets were used to monitor attendees’ neurological responses that may be indicative of nostalgia, while an ecological momentary assessment (EMA) permitted the capturing of spectators’ self-reported nostalgic levels. This approach allowed participants’ mental scores to be analyzed in relationship to their nostalgic occurrences. Brainwave frequencies emblematic of inward attention and arousal were significantly related with the number of instances spectators reported feeling nostalgic, which denote mental dispositions prevalent among attendees more prone to nostalgia. Moreover, PROCESS macro regression highlighted nostalgia’s ability to influence spectators’ behavioral intentions. Results also revealed environmental stimuli originating from sight, sound, and sociability to be especially prominent in triggering nostalgia. Overall, the study’s findings reveal unique characteristics present in baseball that render both immediate and enduring effects.
Micrometer Scale Y–Ba–Cu–O SQUID Arrays Fabricated With a Focused Helium Ion Beam

We present the fabrication and testing of microarrays of superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDs) fabricated from the high-transition temperature superconductor YBa $_2$ Cu $_3$ O $_{7-\delta }$ (YBCO). The arrays consisted of 84 SQUIDs, each with loop area 25 $\mu \text{m}^{2}$ , connected electrically in series with a meander line structure. The entire array was contained in an area of just $\text{100}\,\mu \text{m}\times \text{100}\,\mu \text{m}$ . The Josephson junctions in the arrays were directly written into YBCO thin films with ion irradiation from a focused helium ion beam. We found that the electrical properties can be controlled by changing the diameter of the ion beam through selection of either a 20 or 5 $\mu \text{m}$ beam aperture. In particular, larger aperture or beam size results in a weaker link junction with higher operating temperature and smaller critical voltage. The voltages across the dc-biased arrays were measured as a function of magnetic field. The data exhibited maximum voltage modulations of 300 $\mu \text{V}$ at 65 K and 1 mV at 52 K for the 20 and 5 $\mu \text{m}$ beam aperture, respectively. The magnetic field periodicity for both arrays was approximately 30 $\mu$ T per flux quantum.
Suggestions for Advancing Pragmatic Solutions for Dissemination: Potential Updates to Evidence-Based Repositories

Evidence-based program repositories (EBPR) report intervention characteristics and how to implement the intervention. These EBPR are a dissemination strategy to address questions such as, "I have cancer, what programs can I join?" or "What evidence-based programs for weight loss are a good fit for my community?" However, these EBPR fall short of realizing their potential and are not seen as particularly interactive, robust, or relevant to stakeholders who may benefit from their content. We propose 2 solutions for existing EBPR to enhance dissemination of evidence-based information. Addressing this critical dissemination need is one strategy for health promotion.
Interreligiosity as a Realist Learning Engagement: Theodore Abu Qurrah and 'Ali b. Rabban al-Tabari-Two Comparative Theologians from Early Islam?

The comparative theologian, Francis X. Clooney, once opined that much recent comparative theology is done with Hinduism and Buddhism, and Islam is hardly gaining a proportionately sufficient attention in this scholarship. This essay aims at contributing to the attempt at filling-in the gap of doing comparative theology in relation to Islam. I pursue this task by studying fi al-Din wa-l-Dawlah (On Religion and State) by the Muslim 'Ali b. Rabban al-Tabari in comparative conversation with Maymar fi Wjud al-Khaliq wa-l-Din al-Qawym (Maymar on the Existence of the Creator and the Right Religion). by the Christian Theodore Abu Qurrah. It is my goal to shed comparative lights on Wa-l-Din al-Qawim and Al-Din wa-l-Dawlah by observing similarities and differences with regard to the following: the method of verification; the criterion of credibility acknowledged by each; and the telos of verification they seek. Toward the end of the comparison, I reflect briefly on whether or not Abu Qurrah and al-Tabari could be considered comparative theologians of the early Islam/middle Byzantine era and, if so, what kind of "comparative theology" are they presenting in their legacies?
The dynamic nature of the Mre11-Rad50 DNA break repair complex.

Abstract The Mre11-Rad50-Nbs1/Xrs2 protein complex plays a pivotal role in the detection and repair of DNA double strand breaks. Through traditional and emerging structural biology techniques, various functional structural states of this complex have been visualized; however, relatively little is known about the transitions between these states. Indeed, it is these structural transitions that are important for Mre11-Rad50-mediated DNA unwinding at a break and the activation of downstream repair signaling events. Here, we present a brief overview of the current understanding of the structure of the core Mre11-Rad50 complex. We then highlight our recent studies emphasizing the contributions of solution state NMR spectroscopy and other biophysical techniques in providing insight into the structures and dynamics associated with Mre11-Rad50 functions.
Economic Incentives for Cryptocurrency in Post Maria Puerto Rico

The tax incentives for both cryptocurrency related businesses and speculating individuals are significant and should be explored. The absence of Federal and minimal and/or non-existent Puerto Rican taxes when combined with Federal business/individual protections and privileges create ideal conditions for cryptocurrency. Although so far there is little realized opportunity for cryptocurrency utilization or leverage within Puerto Rico or by its citizens, the potential tax shelter benefits far outweigh the (lax) eligibility requirements and location separate from the continental mainland. Changes to these tax incentive programs may occur in the future but significant gains could be realized if businesses and individuals successfully navigate public perception and the tax code. Ideally, a mutual beneficial relationship between outside cryptocurrency speculators, blockchain businesses, the government of Puerto Rico, and its citizens can be established but that is yet to be determined and would be historically novel.
Economic Structural Change as an Option for Mitigating the Impacts of Climate Change

Improving the resilience of the economy in the face of uncertain climate change damages involves irreversible investments to scale up new technologies that are less vulnerable to the effects of climate change. The benefit of having such options includes the avoided welfare cost of diverting consumption to scaling up the new technology after production possibilities have been diminished by climate change impacts. This needs to be balanced against the upfront cost of scaling up a technology that is potentially less productive than incumbent technologies. The paper uses a real options approach to investigate this trade-off, based on numerical simulation of a multi-period model of economic growth and climate change impacts that includes a one-time cost associated with scaling up the alternative technology. The value of the option provided by investment in the more resilient technology depends on the ex-ante volatility of climate change damages, as well as how rapidly climate change degrades the productivity of the economy's established technology. In addition, the size of scale-up cost that leaves the economy indifferent between investing and not investing in the new technology can be used to define the value of early investment in the less climate change-vulnerable technology as a sort of call option.
Leaf Processing in a Reservoir: An Experimental Approach

The classical laboratory design of an experiment involves the utilization of a proper control and establishing various test treatments while holding conditions as close to those of the control as possible. In field work an experimental design such as that used in the laboratory is impossible to generate; however, field experimental work can be performed by controlling one parameter at a time and allowing this to serve as a treatment. The control in this case attempts to emulate the ecological system as close as possible. An experimental approach was utilized to determine how leaves were processed in a reservoir. Maple (Acer Spp.) leaf packets were placed in the reservoir utilizing the following experimental design: (I) Packets were placed in plastic trays and left open. These served as the controls. (2) Packets were placed in enclosures so that fish and other larger animals might not have access to the leaves. (3) Packets were placed in enclosures and a bluegill sunfish (Lepomis macrochirus) was added to each enclosure. Results from the experiments showed no significant differences between the leaf processing in the enclosure with and without fish. However, there were significant differences in leaf processing between open and enclosed leaf packets. At one time it took less than a month for this difference to occur; at another time it took from two to three months.
Very efficient conversions

Using program transformation techniques from the field of partial evaluation an automatic tool for generating very efficient conversions from equality-stating theorems has been implemented.
Defect clustering and classification for semiconductor devices

In semiconductor manufacturing, cracks, scratches, contaminants, process variations, and errors by operators or equipment are all production problems that cause defects on wafers. It is highly desirable to find and classify defect signatures recorded in the data sets for final electrical tests and to correlate these signatures with causal data residing in the corresponding process and engineering data sets. In the first part of this paper, we explore the first of these issues-automating the identification of defect clusters on individual wafers within and across lots. Selection of the right number of clusters is achieved by incorporating the Calinsky and Harabasz (CH) index. We observe that the single-link clustering algorithm works the best in detecting the right number and shape of defect clusters. In the second part of this paper, we attempt to classify clustered defect patterns using an analytical tool, called the Hough Transformation (HT), proposed by Cunningham and MacKinnon, to identify scratch defects on semiconductor wafers. We observe that HT works well in detecting a variety of scratches, including diagonal scratches and line scratches.
How corticosteroids work

Corticosteroids are widely used in the treatment of allergic and inflammatory conditions. It is important to recognize that there are great species differences in the responses to glucocorticoids and that man is a "steroid-resistant" species. Steroids affect metabolism and distribution of T and B lymphocytes, but do not significantly affect antibody production in man. Steroids profoundly affect the inflammatory response by way of vasoconstriction, decreased chemotaxis, and interference with macrophages. Steroids affect types I, III, and IV mechanisms of immunologic injury. There are still enormous gaps in our knowledge of the actions of glucocorticosteroids.
Analyst Following and Equity Offerings Subsequent to Initial Public Offerings

Analyst forecast information is collected for firms following their IPOs and is used in an examination of subsequent seasoned equity offerings (SEOs). Consistent with information asymmetry arguments, the analysis indicates that a larger percentage of firms conducting SEOs within three years of the IPO are covered by financial analysts than those without SEOs, and that analyst coverage is a significant predictor of subsequent SEOs. In addition, the results indicate that long-term earnings growth forecasts are larger for firms with subsequent SEOs, but growth forecasts decline significantly following the SEOs. Further, SEO abnormal returns exhibit a significant negative relationship with earnings growth forecasts. These results are consistent with “windows of opportunity” arguments since they suggest that SEOs are “timed” to coincide with the peak of earnings growth expectations, but that market participants compensate by reacting more negatively to offerings by firms with high growth forecasts.
wFleaBase: the Daphnia genome database

Background wFleaBase is a database with the necessary infrastructure to curate, archive and share genetic, molecular and functional genomic data and protocols for an emerging model organism, the microcrustacean Daphnia. Commonly known as the water-flea, Daphnia's ecological merit is unequaled among metazoans, largely because of its sentinel role within freshwater ecosystems and over 200 years of biological investigations. By consequence, the Daphnia Genomics Consortium (DGC) has launched an interdisciplinary research program to create the resources needed to study genes that affect ecological and evolutionary success in natural environments.
Aces Corner [ACES Corner]

Reports on the activities and awards presented at the 2015 Applied Computational Electromagnetics Society (ACES) Conference.
Synopsis of investigations into proposed theories on the etiology of achalasia.

SUMMARY The current state of research into the etiology of achalasia only allows for speculation. To date, several studies have been performed investigating genetic, immune, and infectious disease mechanisms; however, none of these have been conclusive. Further research into this topic is warranted given the severity of the disease, and it may be possible that all of these mechanisms are involved in the pathophysiology of the disease.
Workload Is Multidimensional, Not Unitary: What Now?

It is commonly assumed that workload is a unitary construct, but recent data suggest that there are multiple subjective and objective facets of workload that are only weakly intercorrelated. This article reviews the implications of treating workload as multivariate. Examples from several simulated task environments show that high subjective workload is compatible with a variety of patterns of multivariate psychophysiological response. Better understanding of the cognitive neuroscience of the different components of workload, including stress components, is required. At a practical level, neither subjective workload measures nor single physiological responses are adequate for evaluating task demands, building predictive models of human performance, and driving augmented cognition applications. Multivariate algorithms that accommodate the variability of cognitive and affective responses to demanding tasks are needed.
Device susceptibility update: 1999-2000

This ninth biennial Compendium. continues the previous work of Nichols, et al., on single event effects (SEE) on microcircuits first published in 1985. Because of the volume of SEE data that has generated over past years, this Compendium only presents data collected and/or published in the last two years.
Catch a Star Book! Responses of Fifth-Grade Students to Celebrity-Authored Children's Literature.

Reader response theory and research on book interest underpinned a study of the appeal of celebrity-authored children's storybooks to elementary school students. We engaged fifth-grade students in selecting and reading from a set of 41 celebrity-authored books and completing reader response forms. Utilizing the survey research design and a combination of quantitative and qualitative procedures, we analyzed the students' responses. The data revealed that the students focused on how and the extent to which the contents of the books “spoke” to them rather than on the celebrity status of the authors. Implications are drawn for book selection criteria not only for children's reading but also for the literature that might be promoted in children's literature courses and reading courses in university settings.
Bilayer self-assembly on a hydrophilic, deterministically nanopatterned surface

We present measurements of the in situ, microscopic architecture of a self-assembled bilayer at the interface between a regularly nanopatterned surface and an aqueous sub-phase using neutron reflectometry. The substrate is patterned with a rectangular array of nanoscale holes. Because of the high quality of the pattern, using neutron reflectometry, we are able to map the surface-normal density distribution of the patterned silicon, the penetration of water into the pattern, and the distribution of a deposited film inside and outside of the etched holes. In this study, 1,2-dilauroyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DLPC) single bilayers were deposited on the hydrophilic patterned surface. For bilayers deposited either by vesicle fusion (VF) or by the Langmuir-Schaefer (L-S) technique, the most consistent model found to fit the data shows that the lipids form bilayer coatings on top of the substrate as well as the bottoms of the holes in an essentially conformal fashion. However, while there is a single bilayer on the unetched silicon surface, the lipids coating the bottoms of the holes form a complex bimodal structure consistent with a rough surface produced by the etching process. This study provides insight into film transfer both outside and inside regular nanopatterned features. Open image in new window
Kinematic Wave Traffic Flow Model for Mixed Traffic

The Lighthill-Whitham-Richards kinematic wave traffic flow model was extended to describe traffic with different types of vehicles, in which all types of vehicles are completely mixed and travel at the same group velocity. A study of such a model with two vehicle classes (e.g., passenger cars and trucks) showed that when both classes of traffic have identical free-flow speeds, the model (a) satisfies the first-in-first-out rule, (b) is anisotropic, and (c) has the usual shock and expansion waves and a family of contact waves. Different compositions of vehicle classes in this model propagate along contact waves. Such models can be used to study traffic evolution on long crowded highways where low-performance vehicles entrap high-performance ones.
Identification of a new polymorphism in the human proteolipid protein gene

A polymorphism in the gene for proteolipid protein has been identified, using amplification by the polymerase chain reaction, restriction enzyme digestion, and fragment separation by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The polymorphism is located in the transcribed 3'-untranslated region, a region with potential regulatory signals. The mutation consists of a single base pair insertion into a Hae III restriction site, producing a larger rare fragment of 409 bp as compared with the more frequent 325 bp fragment. The gene for proteolipid protein is on the X chromosome; thus the males are hemizygous for the rare allele and the females are heterozygous carriers. The polymorphism occurs with a frequency of 0.046 in a population of European origin and also has a rare frequency in multiple sclerosis patients.
Rapid intravenous infusion of amphotericin B: A pilot study☆☆☆

Abstract purpose: The administration of amphotericin B in the conventional prolonged infusion over 4 to 6 hours is complicated by the acute toxicities of fevers and chills in 50% to 90% of patients and the chronic toxicities of increased creatinine levels and hypokalemia in 60% to 80% of patients. To determine the safety and toxicity of rapid infusions, we conducted a prospective, nonrandomized study in patients with clinical indications for antifungal therapy. patients and methods: Twenty-five granulocytopenic adults with acute leukemia and myelodysplastic syndromes were enrolled in a phase I trial using four sequentially shorter infusion durations: a standard infusion over 4 hours (n = 3) and shortened infusion durations at 3 hours (n = 3), 2 hours (n = 4), and 1 hour (n = 15). Toxicity was assessed by daily examinations of study subjects by one of the study investigators, by documentation of all infusion-related fevers and chills, and by daily monitoring of serum levels of creatinine, potassium, magnesium, and aspartate aminotransferase. results: Temperatures greater than 38°C occurred in 16 of 25 (64%) patients, but only two had temperatures exceeding 40°C. Chills were observed in 13 of 25 (56%) patients, but only one had severe symptoms. Serum creatinine increased more than 0.5 mg/dL (44.20 μmol/L) above the pretreatment baseline in 17 of 25 (68%) patients, and the absolute creatinine level was greater than or equal to 2.0 mg/dL (176.8 μmol/L) in 10 of 25 (40%) patients. Serum potassium levels dropped below the normal limit of 3.5 mEq/L (3.5 mmol/L) in all patients, but no patient had potassium levels below 2.5 mEq/L (2.5 mmol/L). Intravenous potassium supplementation was administered to all patients and exceeded 100 mEq/d in 12 of 25 (48%) patients. conclusions: Rapid infusions of amphotericin B are safe, are associated with similar toxicity as prolonged infusions, and facilitate inpatient care by decreasing nursing time needed for administration and minimizing scheduling conflicts with other necessary intravenous medications. Shorter infusions also facilitate outpatient and home administration of amphotericin B.
Testbed design and localization in MiNT-2: A miniaturized robotic platform for wireless protocol development and emulation

A significant challenge in the development of robust wireless networking protocols is often the need to prototype and test these protocols in a small-scale setting before they can be widely deployed. Two contrasting prototyping and testing methods are currently used, requiring a choice between convenience and accuracy. The first involves simulating a wireless network solely in software. Although convenient, this option fails to accurately account for real-world factors such as realistic radio propagation models and their interaction with node mobility and obstacles. The second relies on setting up a large-scale physical testbed that, although accurate, represents a single design point and tends to be expensive to reconfigure and manage. The MiNT project at Stony Brook University was one of the first to propose an accurate and inexpensive small-scale physical testbed built using commercially-available robots coupled with a version of NS2 built to work cooperatively on multiple nodes. MiNT combines the best features of the two popular performance evaluation methods, achieving network accuracy comparable to that of large-scale physical testbeds without abandoning the convenience and flexibility of software simulation. In this paper, we describe our initial experiences in developing MiNT-2, the next generation of MiNT. MiNT-2 represents a fresh redesign of MiNT that at once simplifies and improves the original design, and extends it with a range of new features. The paper describes a number of these improvements including a new, simplified, node design, an improved node localization using RFIDs, node position calibration, and automated layout configuration. We also demonstrate the accuracy of the new localization approach and outline planned testbed improvements.
QED level shifts of atoms between two mirrors

We calculate the QED energy-level shifts of an atom between two perfectly conducting mirrors in perturbation theory. We separate the contributions of vacuum fluctuation and self-radiation reaction to the shifts between two mirrors. This provides unambiguous assignment of each effect on the cavity-induced shifts, and allows reinterpretation of previously derived results. In particular, we are able to identify the Casimir interaction as a pure effect of vacuum fluctuation.
Characterizing source reservoirs of igneous rocks: A new perspective. Fractionation of radiogenic isotopes: A new tool for petrogenesis

Abstract I present here a model, based on the Rb–Sr systematics, for characterizing the chemical and isotopic makeup of the source reservoirs of igneous rocks. The model is primarily based on the correlation between the Rb/Sr, and [(Rb/Sr)/( 87 Rb/ 86 Sr)] ratios of rocks. However, this model does not require the direct input of the initial Sr isotopic ratio. The model under discussion in fact measures the degree of fractionation undergone by the source reservoir either with respect to its model 87 Rb/ 86 Sr ratio or to its present day model 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratio. The latter method would produce results very similar to the one involving the use of initial 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratio. Both the model isotopic ratios required for this are obtained from the various relations comprising the model itself under study. The proposed model is not dependent on any extraterrestrial data, and is internally consistent with respect to the various parameters used in defining this model. It has been shown that the parameters used are interdependent, mutually impose constraints on each other, and collectively produce outcomes which are commensurate with the expected results. Furthermore, the model was tested on the actual data of rocks taken from the literature, and the predictions made by the model in every test case came out completely consistent with their published results, which substantiates not only the validity of this model, but also the authenticity and aptness of the various parameters used in defining this model. The evaluation of the variably fractionated mantle derived rocks by the model under study shows that the mantle by and large is undepleted and isotopically homogeneous. The popular notion that the mantle is isotopically inhomogeneous is in fact just a perception resulting from the fractionation of radiogenic isotopes with respect to their non-radiogenic counterparts at the time of derivation of the magma from their source reservoirs. Hence, the true isotopic makeup of the mantle source reservoir can never be known. Therefore, predictions made by any model, including the one under study, regarding the isotopic makeup of the source reservoirs, do not reflect the actual chemical and isotopic state of the source reservoirs. These predictions basically reflect the degree of isotopic fractionation undergone by the igneous rocks at the time of extraction of the magma from their source reservoirs. This study further shows that the observed inverse correlation (mantle array) formed by the Sr and Nd isotopic ratios of modern mantle-derived oceanic basalts is not because of mixing of the end-members from the variably fractionated mantle reservoirs but instead caused by the coherent fractionation of radiogenic Sr and Nd isotopes with respect to their non-radiogenic counterparts during the magmatic processes.
Soft X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy Study of the Interaction of Cr with MoS2(0001)

Abstract The interaction of Cr with the MoS 2 (0001) surface was studied with core-level and valence-band soft X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy employing synchrotron radiation ( hv = 150−400 eV). Cr vapor-deposited at room temperature formed relatively flat films on MoS 2 (0001). The Cr underwent a limited chemical reaction with the MoS 2 substrate to form a chromium sulfide and Mo metal. The Mo metal formed a thin layer between the Cr film and the MoS 2 substrate. In contrast, reacted S was incorporated throughout the Cr film, with its concentration enhanced at the surface. Annealing the Cr-covered sample drove the reaction between Cr and MoS 2 , forming additional Mo metal that alloyed with Cr, and several adsorbed S species on the Cr film surface. Annealing also caused partial coalescence of the Cr-containing portion of the film, uncovering parts of the Cr-Mo alloy. The reactivity of Cr with respect to MoS 2 (0001) is greater than that of Fe and somewhat less than that of Mn.
HIPPOCAMPAL NETWORK PATTERNS OF ACTIVITY IN THE MOUSE

Genetic engineering of the mouse brain allows investigators to address novel hypotheses in vivo. Because of the paucity of information on the network patterns of the mouse hippocampus, we investigated the electrical patterns in the behaving animal using multisite silicon probes and wire tetrodes. Theta (6-9 Hz) and gamma (40-100 Hz) oscillations were present during exploration and rapid eye movement sleep. Gamma power and theta power were comodulated and gamma power varied as a function of the theta cycle. Pyramidal cells and putative interneurons were phase-locked to theta oscillations. During immobility, consummatory behaviors and slow-wave sleep, sharp waves were present in cornu ammonis region CA1 of the hippocampus stratum radiatum associated with 140-200-Hz "ripples" in the pyramidal cell layer and population burst of CA1 neurons. In the hilus, large-amplitude "dentate spikes" occurred in association with increased discharge of hilar neurons. The amplitude of field patterns was larger in the mouse than in the rat, likely reflecting the higher neuron density in a smaller brain. We suggest that the main hippocampal network patterns are mediated by similar pathways and mechanisms in mouse and rat.
Acute pretreatment with estradiol protects against CA1 cell loss and spatial learning impairments resulting from transient global ischemia

Estradiol can act to protect against hippocampal damage resulting from transient global ischemia, but little is known about the functional consequences of such neuroprotection. The present study examines whether acute estradiol administered prior to the induction of transient global ischemia protects against hippocampal cell death and deficits in performance on a spatial learning task. Ovariectomized female rats were primed with estradiol benzoate or oil vehicle 48 and 24 h prior to experiencing one of three durations of 4-vessel occlusion (0, 5, or 10 min). Performance on the cued and hidden platform versions of the Morris water maze was assessed 1 week following ischemia. On the cued platform task, neither hormone treatment nor ischemia significantly influenced acquisition. When tested on the hidden platform task, however, oil-treated rats exhibited impairments in spatial learning after either 5 or 10 min of ischemia while estradiol-treated rats showed no impairments after 5 min of ischemia and only mild impairments after 10 min of ischemia. Immediately following behavioral testing, rats were perfused and survival of CA1 pyramidal cells was assessed. Ischemia was associated with the loss of CA1 pyramidal cells but rats that received estradiol prior to ischemia showed less severe damage. Furthermore, the extent of cell loss was correlated with degree of spatial bias expressed on a probe trial following hidden platform training. These findings indicate that acute exposure to estradiol prior to ischemia is both neuroprotective and functionally protective.
Ω-Globally Attractive Equilibrium Points of the CNN

The dynamic behavior of the standard Cellular Neural Network (CNN) was studied via explicit solutions of the CNN vector state equations for certain piecewise linear domains Ω. The concepts of Ω-globally attractive domain, Ω-globally attractive equilibrium point, and Ω-globally expelling domain for the CNN state equations are presented. The terminology "Ω-global" indicates that the property is global relative to a domain Ω. It is shown that every "saturated domain" D (i.e. for every vector X∈ D, each corresponding component of X has the same sign as all others and its absolute value is greater than or equal to 1), is either Ω-globally attractive or Ω-globally expelling. Attractive equilibrium points in another special domain were also studied. Sufficient conditions for convergence to such equilibria are given, along with concrete new computer simulation examples which demonstrate this theory. Finally, several definitions and simulation results are given to explicate the complex dynamical relationships which were observed between initial states in the linear domain Ω (0) (i.e. every vector X∈Ω(0) has the property that the absolute value of each component is less that 1) and Ω-globally attractive equilibrium points in the saturated domain.
A comparison of two lower trophic models for the California Current System

Abstract Both simple and more complex lower trophic ecosystem models were applied to the near shore pelagic zone of the California Current System. The ecosystem models were a simple nitrogen–phytoplankton–zooplankton (NPZ) model derived from that of Edwards et al. (J. Mar. Res. 58, 37–60, 2000), and a modified version of the more complex PICES North Pacific Ecosystem Model for Understanding Regional Oceanography (NEMURO), which includes both nitrogen and silicate cycles, as well as multiple phytoplankton and zooplankton components. These models were framed within two simplified physics models, similar to those constructed by Newberger et al. (J. Geophys. Res. 108 (3), 3061, doi:10.1029/2001JC001182 , 2003). The first physics model was a zero-dimensional closed system, used for structural analysis of the biological models. The second was a one-dimensional (horizontal, with no vertical structure) cross-shelf model of the mixed layer, used to examine the biological response to upwelling. The predictions of the two biological models within the one-dimensional physical framework were compared with observed nutrients, chlorophyll, and zooplankton on the Newport Hydrographic Line. Equilibrium behavior of the zero-dimensional models was similar to that in previous studies; differences between the models resulted primarily from differences in the density dependence of mortality. Both models were found to be highly sensitive to the same four parameters: source nitrate concentration, maximum grazing rate, zooplankton Ivlev constant, and zooplankton mortality rate. In the cross-shelf case, both biological models had a similar timing of phytoplankton response to upwelling, but maximum phytoplankton concentration and zooplankton dynamics differed, with the simpler NPZ model resulting in lower dissolved nutrients but higher plankton densities than the modified NEMURO model. While the modified NEMURO model provided a slightly better overall fit to observations, neither model was able to fully capture observed phytoplankton and zooplankton dynamics.
Life in the Fast Lane: Mammalian Disease Models in the Genomics Era

Analyses of the human genome have proven extremely successful in identifying changes that contribute to human disease. Genetically engineered mice provide a powerful tool to analyze these changes, although they are slow and costly and do not always recapitulate human biology. Recent advances in genomic technologies, rodent-modeling approaches, and the production of patient-derived reprogrammed cell lines now provide a plethora of complementary systems to study disease states and test new therapies. Continued evolution and integration of these model systems will be the key to realizing the benefits of the genomic revolution and refining our understanding and treatment of human diseases.
Inertial MEMS Test Challenges

This paper describes the challenges in Inertial Micro-Electro Mechanical System (MEMS) testing as compared to standard Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) testing. The most significant challenge in MEMS testing is having moving silicon parts surrounded by integrated circuitry (IC). Testing integrated circuits, whether analog or digital has its own complexity. However MEMS testing need to be more refined and accurate due to their criticality in applications like automobile airbag trigger, activate skid control, health care, etc. In addition to electrical testing MEMS also requires mechanical testing (Sensitivity) which is an important test parameter to characterize the device and market it with guarantee.
Surgical findings with the tinted AcrySof intraocular lens in children.

Introduction The AcrySof foldable acrylic intraocular lens (IOL) has become an accepted and frequent means of treating pediatric aphakia. A new version of this lens with blue-light filtering properties purports to offer superior retinal protection. We describe our experience with this tinted lens and compare it to findings with the standard, nontinted IOL. Methods A chart review identified 29 eyes of 21 children (tinted lens group; age 11 months to 13 years) who had the tinted IOL implanted. The standard lens group consisted of 38 eyes (31 patients; age 11 months to 15 years). Most eyes had an intact posterior capsule at the time of implantation. Results The incidence of postoperative inflammation was fairly high in both groups (71% in the tinted lens group, 60% in the standard lens group). The tinted lens group showed a higher incidence of transient inflammation than the standard lens group ( p =0.03) but the rates of nontransient sequelae (posterior synechiae, iris synechiae, membranes formation, capsule, or IOL opacification) were similar (66% versus 47%; p =0.11). Posterior capsule opacification occurred in 15 eyes in the tinted lens group and 16 eyes in the standard lens group ( p =0.15) but was visually significant in only 10 and 11 eyes, respectively ( p =0.77). Conclusions Transient inflammation is higher with implantation of tinted versus nontinted IOLs, but long-term inflammatory sequelae are roughly equal, as is the rate of posterior capsule opacification. The question as to whether the chromophore in the tinted lens caused the higher incidence of transient inflammation is unresolved.
Cytoplasmic Ca2+ activity regulation as measured by a calcium-activated current

Abstract Calcium-activated non-selective cation (CAN) currents were activated by quantitative injections of Ca 2+ into voltage clamped bursting neurons of the snails Helix aspersa or Helix pomatia . Membrane potential was held at the potassium equillibrium potential and CAN currents were fit with a rising and falling exponential function. Ca 2+ transporters and pumps of the cell membrane, endoplasmic reticulum, and mitochondria were selectively blocked with pharmacological agents. Bath solutions containing 0 Na Ringers, chlorpromazine, Na 3 VO 4 , or thapsigargin did not significantly change the CAN current decay constants from those measured in Ringers. External 2,4-dinotrophenol or internal ruthenium red, however, significantly lengthened the CAN current decay constant. It is concluded that mitochondria are the most important sink for sub-membrane Ca 2+ activity in the range necessary to effectively activate CAN currents.
An extended canonical perturbation method

In this investigation, a procedure is described for extending the application of canonical perturbation theories, which have been applied previously to the study of conservative systems only, to the study of non-conservative dynamical systems. The extension is obtained by imbedding then-dimensional non-conservative motion in a 2n-dimensional space can always be specified in canonical form, and, consequently, the motion can be studied by direct application of any canonical perturbation method. The disadvantage of determining a solution to the 2n-dimensional problem instead of the originaln-dimensional problem is minimized if the canonical transformation theory is used to develop the perturbation solution. As examples to illustrate the application of the method, Duffing's equation, the equation for a linear oscillator with cubic damping and the van der Pol equation are solved using the Lie-Hori perturbation algorithm.
Earthquakes: Caught in the act

Faults break under the stress of plate tectonic forces, but the processes immediately preceding rupture are enigmatic. Monitoring of a remote oceanic fault that breaks regularly indicates that rupture is controlled by physical properties of the fault zone.
Characteristics of a fluedized-bed incinerator for the combustion of solid wastes

Abstract A laboratory-scale fluidized-bed incenirator has been designed for the efficient combustion and thermal destruction of solid waste materials. The experimental facility consists of a 153 mm dia cylindrical furnace, a propane gas burner, an air supply system, batch and continuous feeders, an off-gas cleanup system, flue-gas analyzer system, and an on-line automated data recording and analysis system. A continuous monitoring of temperature and pressure distributions in the incinerator, and composition of the flue gas is possible. Characteristics of the incinerator have been established. These include measurement of pressure drops across the calming and bed sections as a function of superficial air velocity and temperature, and axial temperature distribution in the test bed. Hydrodynamic characteristics of three inert sand beds of average diameters 641, 1312 and 2165 μm have been investigated by recording the pressure-drop histories in the lower and upper regions of the bed as a function of fluidization number and bed temperature. Several statistical functions such as variance of the pressure-drop data, probability density function, skewness, kurtosis, autocorrelation function and probability density function have been computed, and the same have been related to the fluidization quality of the bed. These investigations suggest the optimum conditions for incineration of waste materials where the gas-solid contacting and solids mixing is most favorable, and hence, best results will be obtained for thermal destruction and pollution control.