cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Extensions of the derivative dispersion relations for amplitude analyses

It is shown that analyticity properties of scattering amplitudes as expressed by the derivative analyticity relations can be combined with measured cross-section and polarization data to extract the full scattering amplitudes in a simple and practical way. The method should be particularly useful in problems involving a coupled amplitude analysis. The measurement of a complete set of spin parameters, or a phase-shift analysis at only one energy, is sufficient to eliminate ambiguities in the extraction at all other energies. Our procedure is illustrated by considering both simple mathematical examples and real data. (AIP)
Newtonian Gravitational Field Theory

A field theory for gravitation is developed within the framework of the special theory of relativity. This is achieved by exploiting the similarity in mathematical structure of two relations which are found in both Newton's gravitational theory and Maxwell's electromagnetic theory. These relations are: (1) the law of force between the relevant physical entities (mass and electric charge), and (2) the equation of continuity (conservation of charge). The field equations describe the propagation of gravitational waves with the velocity of light in much the same way that Maxwell's field equations describe electromagnetic waves. Both fields have such similar mathematical structures that they are developed in parallel up to the point where their inherently different physical content cause their paths of evolution to diverge. At this stage, the field equations for both theories are determined. The physical significance of the field variables of both theories imposes a mathematical formalism which doesnot give rise to self-interactions. A calculation for the energy in the field of two particles representative of either the electromagnetic or gravitational field is shown to give the correct finite value. The reason that conventional calculations yield an infinite energy is readily seen to lie in the calculation of a physically meaningless quantity. The mathematical formalism required by the field theories is used to develop generalizations of the usual conservation laws. Two conservation laws are derived which are consequences of the consistent physical interpretation of the field variables. These laws do not appear in conventional theory. The approach followed here in developing the field theories leads to the appearance of forces dual to the well-known forces. Thus, for the electromagnetic field, we find a dual to the Lorentz force and, in the gravitational field, we find a dual to Newton's law of gravitation. These results are not due to the introduction of the fields, for they can be expressed in terms of the particle variables. They emerge from the consistent application of the physical interpretation of the particle and field variables. A basic physical principle, which underlies both theories, is best expressed by the statement: It is the interactions between the elements of a physical event and not the elements themselves which are the physical observables.
Recognizing straight lines on raster display with a type of convex hull

This paper puts forward the method of undergoing the type conversion and sorting of convex hull on the homogeneous coordinate. The hyperbolic convex hull, one of hulls, can be used to recognize the existing region of straight lines on the raster display. It can be applied in both sides - how to find linear route as long as possible in curve lanes and the linear dealing procedure of curves.
Investigation of Cocatalysis Conditions Using an Automated Microscale Multireactor Workstation: Synthesis of meso-Tetramesitylporphyrin

Prior manual work has shown that the condensation of mesitaldehyde and pyrrole leading to tetramesitylporphyrin depends sensitively on concentration and requires cocatalysis involving BF3·O(Et)2 and ethanol or other protic species. We have applied an automated microscale chemistry workstation capable of parallel or adaptive experimentation to systematically investigate these cocatalysis conditions. Examination of experimental grids spanning a 1000-fold range of the concentrations of BF3·O(Et)2 and ethanol identified the best cocatalysis conditions for various mesitaldehyde and pyrrole concentrations. As the reaction concentration increased from 10 to 200 mM, the optimal yields were achieved with a parallel increase in BF3·O(Et)2 concentration (from 3.3 to 56 mM), but the amount of ethanol remained relatively constant. Catalysis conditions were identified that afforded ∼30% yields for reactants in the range of 10−73 mM, thereby enabling the reaction to be performed at increased concentration without loss i...
State-dependent action of cocaine on brain temperature and movement activity: implications for movement sensitization

Abstract Because neural activity is highly energy consuming and heat producing, brain temperature offers a reliable, real-time measure of an animal's activity state and its changes induced by environmental and drug challenges. Therefore, it allows evaluation of the activity state of an animal preceding drug administration and its relation to subsequent drug-induced neural effects. This approach was used to explore the state dependency of cocaine's effects. Brain and body temperatures, as well as locomotion were measured simultaneously in rats during repeated, daily administration of cocaine (15 mg/kg ip, daily for 5 days) under different experimental conditions. The drug was administered via (a) a chronically implanted catheter in quiet resting conditions, (b) an injection made under quiet rest or (c) an injection under activated conditions associated with placement in the cage. Although brain temperature and movement increased after cocaine administration in each condition, cocaine's action (evaluated as cocaine–saline difference for both parameters) was situational. Catheter-administered cocaine induced the strongest movement activation and robust, monophasic temperature increase, which remained relatively stable following each subsequent drug infusion. Cocaine injected during quiet and, especially, activated conditions, induced a weaker locomotor activation, while the temperature response (evaluated as drug–saline difference) had a biphasic pattern. Cocaine initially inhibited the temperature increases seen in saline-treated animals (0–20 min) and then induced a more prolonged hyperthermia, which was about twofold weaker than that seen after catheter-administered drug. Although movement activation gradually increased following repeated treatment in activated conditions, the magnitude of this sensitized motor response barely reached the levels induced by the initial cocaine administration via catheter. These data suggest that both the acute effects of cocaine in the brain and their change following repeated drug administration are dependent upon the ongoing neural activity state of the animal. Cocaine's interaction with this activity state is a crucial factor determining the behavioral effects of this drug, including state-dependent motor sensitization.
Some Limitations of Ancestral Character-State Reconstruction When Testing Evolutionary Hypotheses

The recent explosion of phylogenetic information has had an impact far beyond the eld of systematic biology. Workers in a variety of disciplines are now interested in generating and using phylogenies for their groups (or genes) of interest (e.g., Brooks and McLennan, 1991; Harvey et al., 1995; Martins, 1996). In large part, this new interest has been driven by the promise of using phylogenies to reconstruct ancestral character states, usually by parsimony. The simplicity of testing evolutionary hypotheses by mapping characters ontoaphylogenyhas an appeal that has not been lost on the biological community. Despite its appeal, ancestral state reconstruction is an ambitious exercise. Although we are very familiar with the difculty of accurately inferring phylogenies with thousands of characters (reviewed by Swofford et al., 1996), the challenges associated with reconstructing ancestral character states of individual characters are correspondingly more difcult (Swofford and Maddison, 1987, 1992; Maddison and Maddison, 1992; Collins et al., 1994a; Frumhoff and Reeve, 1994; Pagel, 1994; Maddison, 1995; Schluter, 1995; Schultz et al., 1996; Omland, 1997; Schluter et al., 1997; Cunningham et al., 1998). Whereas we generally assume that data used for phylogenetic reconstruction are selectively neutral, many—if not most—of the characters we reconstruct to test evolutionary hypotheses are thought to be under selection (Brooks and McLennan, 1991; Harvey and Pagel, 1991). In fact, their presumed selective importance is often why we are interested in them in the rst place. Therefore, the problems of convergence and parallel evolution that plague phylogenetic inference should be that much more serious when we test evolutionary hypotheses with ancestral state reconstructions. In this paper, I discuss the limitations of using reconstructed ancestral character states to test evolutionary hypotheses. In particular, I argue that hypotheses of irreversible evolution (e.g., Dollo’s law; Dollo, 1893) are particularly difcult to test by using ancestral character state reconstruction. I illustrate this point with two case studies of life history evolution in echinoderms.
Modeling within-host HIV-1 dynamics and the evolution of drug resistance: trade-offs between viral enzyme function and drug susceptibility.

There are many biological steps between viral infection of CD4 þ T cells and the production of HIV-1 virions. Here we incorporate an eclipse phase, representing the stage in which infected T cells have not started to produce new virus, into a simple HIV-1 model. Model calculations suggest that the quicker infected T cells progress from the eclipse stage to the productively infected stage, the more likely that a viral strain will persist. Long-term treatment effectiveness of antiretroviral drugs is often hindered by the frequent emergence of drug resistant virus during therapy. We link drug resistance to both the rate of progression of the eclipse phase and the rate of viral production of the resistant strain, and explore how the resistant strain could evolve to maximize its within-host viral fitness. We obtained the optimal progression rate and the optimal viral production rate, which maximize the fitness of a drug resistant strain in the presence of drugs. We show that the window of opportunity for invasion of drug resistant strains is widened for a higher level of drug efficacy provided that the treatment is not potent enough to eradicate both the sensitive and resistant virus. Published by Elsevier Ltd.
Amiodarone for maintenance of sinus rhythm after conversion of atrial fibrillation in the setting of a dilated left atrium.

Abstract Previous reports suggest that the finding of left atrial (LA) dilatation (>45 mm) by echocardiography identifies patients not likely to maintain sinus rhythm after conversion of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, these studies antedate the availability of amiodarone, an antiarrhythmic agent that reportedly is effective in patients with AF in whom other drug therapy has failed. To analyze the relation between LA size and the ability to maintain sinus rhythm with amiodarone therapy, 28 patients, aged 32 to 87 years (mean 61), with an LA dimension >45 mm (range 46 to 78, mean 57) were studied. Thirteen patients (46%) had valvular heart disease, 10 (36%) dilated cardiomyopathy and 5 (18%) miscellaneous disorders. In 25 patients (89%) quinidine therapy had failed. After therapy with amiodarone, sinus rhythm returned in all patients and was maintained. Therapy was judged completely successful in 10 patients (alive and still in sinus rhythm with at least 1 year of follow-up), partially successful in 11 (maintaining sinus rhythm for at least 6 months before a change in status) and failed in 7. Completely successful therapy was accomplished in 9 of 18 patients with an LA dimension between 46 and 60 mm, but in only 1 of 10 patients with an LA dimension greater than 60 mm (p
Stress, Negative Emotions, and Inflammation

Chronic low grade infl ammation is a core pathophysiological process that may be involved in many age-related diseases. Elevations in circulating markers of infl ammation have been associated with frailty and disability, osteoporosis, certain cancers, cardiovascular disorders, type II diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and Alzheimer's disease. Importantly, stress and negative emotions appear to promote the production of infl ammatory mediators, providing a physiological mechanism by which negative psychological states may impact health. This chapter reviews the basic physiological processes of infl ammation, the relationships among stress, negative emotions, social relationships, and infl ammation, and the behavioral and physiological pathways linking stress, emotions, and infl ammation.
Estimating Amenity Benefits of Coastal Farmland

This paper investigates differences in non-market farmland amenity values estimated using distinct methodologies, with a focus on the potential causes and policy implications. The paper compares farmland amenity values generated by a hedonic property value model and a contingent choice model, both estimated from data collected in the Peconic Estuary System of Suffolk County, NY. The analysis demonstrates that a combination of non-market valuation methodologies can provide policy insights not otherwise available to those relying on any single approach, and illustrates types of information that may be obscured by methodologies used in isolation.
Integrated AC electrokinetic cell separation in a closed-loop device

We integrate electrothermally induced micro-pumps and dielectrophoretic (DEP) traps into micro-circulating fluidic channel loops for yeast cell concentration and separation, two important on-chip cell manipulation tasks, with the same embedded electrodes on-chip. Each fluidic loop design contains well-defined high and low field regions that serve for both fluid transport and cellular manipulation. From a detailed study into the frequency dependent DEP behavior of viable (live) and non-viable (dead) yeast, we demonstrate several operating modes that utilize positive DEP (pDEP) and negative DEP (nDEP) to concentrate both types of cells at either the high or low electric field region and to separate one cell type to a high-field region and one to a low-field region. Because the cells visit the trapping regions repeatedly with the circulating loop design and because of the high shear rates at these stations, our device offers very rapid cell separation and concentration. Two circulating loop designs – one a four-sided square loop, the other a three-sided triangle, with different spatial symmetries and with linear dimensions less than 1 mm, are presented.
A Diminished Role for the Sarcoplasmic Reticulum in Newborn Myocardial Contraction: Effects of Ryanodine

ABSTRACT: Ryanodine, known to reduce Ca2+ release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR), was used in conjunction with the single sucrose gap voltage clamp technique to study excitation-contraction coupling in papillary muscles isolated from newborn and adult rabbits. Ryanodine altered the components of voltage clamp-induced tension in the adult producing a pattern that closely resembled the normal newborn. The phasic component of tension in mature myocardium was markedly and significantly reduced by ryanodine. In addition, ryanodine significantly altered the voltage dependence of this component of tension, suggesting a change in its mechanism of generation. The appearance of a prominent phasic component of tension, absent normally, but produced in the newborn by Ca2+ loading, was also abolished by ryanodine. These results support previous proposals that the phasic component of voltage clamp-induced tension in mammalian myocardium is produced by the release of Ca2+ from the SR. In the newborn, ryanodine caused a significantly smaller decrease in the ratio of phasic to tonic tension than in the adult, suggesting a much less significant role for the SR in excitation-contraction coupling in the younger age group. Although ryanodine had a significant effect on phasic tension, no alteration in the amplitude or voltage dependence of tonic tension, generated by transmembrane Ca2+ influx, could be demonstrated in either newborn or adult heart. This investigation suggests that in newborn myocardium, Ca2+ release from the SR plays a negligible role in excitation-contraction coupling, which depends, rather, on the influx of Ca2+ from the extracellular space.
Kinematic and dynamic analysis of a low-angle strike-slip fault: The Lake Creek fault of south-central Idaho

A large, low-angle strike-slip fault with significant offset is present in south-central Idaho. The 40+ km long Lake Creek fault is oriented NXYW, 3O"SW and has a slip vector 18 km long, plunging 2" to N55"W. Slip was determined by restoring the offset of a map-scale fold trough. Thus, the fault is a dextral-normal fault with predominant dextral strike-slip and minimal normal dip-slip displacement. The present-day gentle dip of the fault appears to be the original dip since older folds and coeval to younger dykes in the area are not tilted. Several hypotheses for the origin of the low-angle fault are tested. Field and kinematic data support the interpretation that the fault formed as a low-angle strike-slip fault, not as a reactivated thrust fault nor in association with other regional fault systems. Based on fault array analysis and published experimental fault studies, the Lake Creek fault is interpreted to have formed as a low-angle strike-slip fault owing to a nearly axial compressive state of stress with a subhorizontal o,, and crustal anisotropy induced by NW-trending folds and SW-dipping axial planar cleavage. Copyright 0 1996 Elsevier Science Ltd
Analyzing circadian expression data by harmonic regression based on autoregressive spectral estimation

Motivation: Circadian rhythms are prevalent in most organisms. Identification of circadian-regulated genes is a crucial step in discovering underlying pathways and processes that are clock-controlled. Such genes are largely detected by searching periodic patterns in microarray data. However, temporal gene expression profiles usually have a short time-series with low sampling frequency and high levels of noise. This makes circadian rhythmic analysis of temporal microarray data very challenging. Results: We propose an algorithm named ARSER, which combines time domain and frequency domain analysis for extracting and characterizing rhythmic expression profiles from temporal microarray data. ARSER employs autoregressive spectral estimation to predict an expression profile's periodicity from the frequency spectrum and then models the rhythmic patterns by using a harmonic regression model to fit the time-series. ARSER describes the rhythmic patterns by four parameters: period, phase, amplitude and mean level, and measures the multiple testing significance by false discovery rate q-value. When tested on well defined periodic and non-periodic short time-series data, ARSER was superior to two existing and widely-used methods, COSOPT and Fisher's G-test, during identification of sinusoidal and non-sinusoidal periodic patterns in short, noisy and non-stationary time-series. Finally, analysis of Arabidopsis microarray data using ARSER led to identification of a novel set of previously undetected non-sinusoidal periodic transcripts, which may lead to new insights into molecular mechanisms of circadian rhythms. Availability: ARSER is implemented by Python and R. All source codes are available from http://bioinformatics.cau.edu.cn/ARSER Contact: [email protected]
The accuracy and suggestibility of children's memory for neutral and criminal eyewitness events

Purpose. A critical issue for psychologists interfacing with the legal system is knowing the extent to which laboratory studies of children’ s testimony generalize to eyewitness situations involving criminal events. The present study was designed to assess whether young children’ s eyewitness performance following a criminal event would diVer from their performance following a neutral event, an issue that has received little empirical attention to date. Methods. The accuracy and suggestibility of 30 e rst grade children who witnessed a staged event that culminated in a purse theft were compared to that of 30 e rst graders who witnessed the same event, but without the theft. Results. Children who viewed the theft were found to be more accurate on various measures of recall and recognition than children who viewed the neutral event. On the other hand, children who viewed the theft were not always less suggestible than children who witnessed the neutral event.
Mechanisms underlying autoimmune synaptic encephalitis leading to disorders of memory, behavior and cognition: insights from molecular, cellular and synaptic studies

Recently, several novel, potentially lethal and treatment-responsive syndromes that affect hippocampal and cortical function have been shown to be associated with auto-antibodies against synaptic antigens, notably glutamate or GABA-B receptors. Patients with these auto-antibodies, sometimes associated with teratomas and other neoplasms, present with psychiatric symptoms, seizures, memory deficits and decreased levels of consciousness. These symptoms often improve dramatically after immunotherapy or tumor resection. Here we review studies of the cellular and synaptic effects of these antibodies in hippocampal neurons in vitro and preliminary work in rodent models. Our work suggests that patient antibodies lead to rapid and reversible removal of neurotransmitter receptors from synaptic sites, leading to changes in synaptic and circuit function that in turn are likely to lead to behavioral deficits. We also discuss several of the many questions raised by these and related disorders. Determining the mechanisms underlying these novel anti-neurotransmitter receptor encephalopathies will provide insights into the cellular and synaptic bases of the memory and cognitive deficits that are hallmarks of these disorders, and potentially suggest avenues for therapeutic intervention.
The 1/kn rules in the minimum logit chi-square estimation procedure when small samples are used

Under the minimum logit chi-square item parameter estimation procedure, observed proportions of correct response of zero or unity result in infinite logits and estimates cannot be obtained. The paper examines the application of three rules (l/2n, l/4n and elimination) for dealing with such cases. A simulation study is conducted in which sample size, number of grouping intervals, underlying item discrimination and difficulty are varied. The outcome variables are the square of the difference between the estimates and the underlying parameter values for item discrimination and difficulty. The results indicate that a complex set of interactions exist among the factors employed in the study. Overall, the 1/4n rule is preferred over the other two rules as it generally yields the smallest RMSE for both item discrimination and difficulty. However, as sample size increases the differences among the three rules decreased.
The derivation of recombination rate constants from time-dependent bulk electroluminescent spectra in compensated GaAs

Abstract Time-resolved spectra are taken during the decay of near-band-gap recombination radiation from n -GaAs ionized by a 10 nsec current pulse. Comparison of these bulk electroluminescent spectra with photoluminescent spectra in Ge-doped GaAs at 77°K shows that they are composed of two peaks of constant energy but variable relative height, which are identified with band-to-band and band-to-acceptor transitions. Self-absorption is an important factor in the bulk electroluminescent spectra. The decay curves of both components, having time constants of the order of 10 nsec, when fitted to theoretical curves derived from a simple model, allow approximate values of the recombination constants involved to be derived. The radiative band-to-band constant is of order 10 −9 cm 3 sec −1 , and the radiative conduction band-to-acceptor constant, 10 −10 cm 3 sec −1 ; both a little smaller than anticipated from theory. A significant duferenee is found between the hole capture constant, also 10 −10 cm 3 sec −1 , and the much larger value given by the theory of Ascarelli and Rodriguez. Results are also given on heavily compensated Te-Zn doped material, where a continuous shift of emission peak energy with excitation occurs and the interpretation of this paper cannot readily be applied.
Neutrophilic inflammation is associated with altered airway hydration in stable asthmatics

Summary Background Airway dehydration is a potential trigger of bronchoconstriction in exercise-induced asthma; however, its role in stable asthma has not been explored. Using sputum percent solids, as an indicator of airway hydration, we sought relationships between airway hydration and other known markers of neutrophilic (TH1) and allergic (TH2) inflammation in stable asthma. Methods Thirty-seven atopic subjects with stable asthma and 15 healthy controls underwent sputum induction. Sputum was analyzed for percent solids, cell counts, cellular and biochemical markers of inflammation and purines. Results Sputum percent solids was significantly elevated in stable asthmatics vs. controls and positively correlated with markers of neutrophilic/TH1-type inflammation (neutrophils, IL-8 and AMP). Sputum percent solids were not correlated with markers of allergic/TH2-type inflammation. These data suggest a direct relationship between neutrophil inflammation and airway hydration in stable asthmatics.
Transient response of the MOC and climate to potential melting of the Greenland Ice Sheet in the 21st century

[1] The potential effects of Greenland Ice Sheet (GrIS) melting on the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (MOC) and global climate in the 21st century are assessed using the Community Climate System Model version 3 with prescribed rates of GrIS melting. Only when GrIS melting flux is strong enough to be able to produce net freshwater gain in upper subpolar North Atlantic does the MOC weaken further in the 21st century. Otherwise this additional melting flux does not alter the MOC much relative to the simulation without this added flux. The weakened MOC doesn't make the late 21st century global climate cooler than the late 20th century, but does reduce the magnitude of the warming in the northern high latitudes by a few degrees. Moreover, the additional dynamic sea level rise due to this weakened MOC could potentially aggravate the sea level problem near the northeast North America coast.
Enzymic action of influenza virus on human erythrocyte stroma components.

SummaryThe presence in human erythrocyte stroma of a chromogenic substance giving absorption spectra (direct Ehrlich and Bial reactions) identical with those of crystalline sialic acid has been confirmed. A potent water-soluble inhibitor of viral hemagglutination, containing 7–11% by weight of this chromogen, has been isolated by partition dialysis from concentrated human erythrocyte stroma. 30–40% of the chromogen in the crude stroma concentrate and up to 56% of that in the purified inhibitor was rendered dialyzable following treatment with concentrated infective influenza virus, which in most instances also destroyed receptors for indicator viruses. Limited chromatographic analysis indicated that the dialyzable chromogen is most probably sialic acid. These observations represent the first direct demonstration of split products resulting from enzymic action of influenza virus on human erythrocyte components.
Pulse shaping for low-noise, charge preamplifiers

Pulse shaper circuits are often needed to reduce noise levels and condition signals for processing. The noise attributes of several time-invariant and time-variant pulse shapers are compared for a charge preamplifier designed for atomic calorimetry measurements. Pulse shapers reviewed are equally applicable to a wide range of measurement applications. Previous work examining the noise attributes of pulse shapers has been based on simplistic noise modeling. The contribution of this work is a comparison of the noise characteristics of a reasonably complete set of pulse shaper configurations using the noise modeling available through the SPICE circuit simulator. A pulse shaper is selected for fabrication, and experimental results are discussed. >
Low-cost manufacturing process for nanostructured metals and alloys

In spite of their interesting properties, nanostructured materials have found limited uses because of the cost of preparation and the limited range of materials that can be synthesized. It has been shown that most of these limitations can be overcome by subjecting a material to large-scale deformation, as occurs during common machining operations. The chips produced during lathe machining of a variety of pure metals, steels, and other alloys are shown to be nanostructured with grain (crystal) sizes between 100 and 800 nm. The hardness of the chips is found to be significantly greater than that of the bulk material.
A POSITIVE THEORY OF CLOSED-END FUNDS AS AN INVESTMENT VEHICLE 1

This paper offers a positive theory of closed-end funds. It views them as an organizational innovation designed to serve clienteles of small investors with long holding periods and large transaction costs. Closed-end funds economize on transaction costs while investing safely in the most illiquid assets. The closing of assets generates managerial tenure and, thus, a new allocation of property rights on the fund’s assets. The fund’s premium equals to the (capitalized) value added by clientele service minus the (capitalized) value of the costs of management. The capitalized value of clientele service changes with the market-wide liquidity premium. This approach is rich enough to explain the persistence of discounts, the relationship between a fund’s discount and its dividend policy, the zero correlation between discounts and interest rates, and the excess volatility of a fund’s share price. The paper’s arguments are supported by a preliminary empirical study.
Colloidal Assembly Route for Responsive Colloidosomes with Tunable Permeability

We present a robust and straightforward approach for fabricating a novel colloidosome system where colloidal particles are assembled to form colloidal shells on the surface of stimuli-responsive microgel scaffolds. We demonstrate that the structural properties of the colloidal shells can be controlled through the colloidal particle size and modulus, and the state of supporting microgel particles. This technique offers a new way to engineer colloidosomes, enabling fine control over their permeability over a wide range of length scales.
In vitro melatonin treatment enhances cell-mediated immune function in male prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster).

The present study was designed (1) to determine the extent to which male prairie voles (Microtus ochrogaster) alter immune status in response to short-day lengths, (2) to evaluate the role of melatonin in coordinating these alterations in immune function, and (3) to assess the association between alterations in immune function and reproductive responsiveness to photoperiod. Male voles were housed in either long- or short-day lengths for 10 wk; voles in short days were subdivided into reproductive ''responders'' (R) or ''non-responders'' (NR) based on testicular mass at autopsy. After 10 wk of exposure to photoperiodic conditions, cell-mediated immune function was evaluated using an in vitro splenocyte proliferation assay. The direct effects of melatonin on immune cells were evaluated by adding melatonin to one-half of the cultures in each experimental condition. Melatonin treatment led to enhanced splenocyte proliferation for all experimental groups. Neither photoperiodic condition nor reproductive status was associated with alterations in immune function or the degree of immuno-enhancing effects of melatonin. Taken together, the results of the present study suggest that melatonin is capable of enhancing immune function in male voles potentially by acting directly on immune cells.
A Comparison of Nodal- and Mesh-Based Magnetic Equivalent Circuit Models

The magnetic equivalent circuit (MEC) technique is a powerful analysis and design tool that combines relative accuracy with moderate computational effort. In this paper, a nodal-based MEC formulation and a mesh-based MEC formulation of a magnetic system are compared. The Newton-Raphson algorithm is used to solve the algebraic system, and to draw conclusions about the computational efficiency of the two formulations under linear and nonlinear operation. Although the two formulations exhibit similar performance under linear operating conditions, the performance of the mesh-based model is significantly better than that of the nodal-based model under nonlinear operation.
New perylenes for dye sensitization of TiO2

We describe a new generation of perylene photosensitizers based upon N-(2,5-di-tert-butylphenyl)perylene-3,4-dicarboximide. The new sensitizers have more favorable energetics for electron injection into TiO2 and better light absorption properties for solar conversion than previous sensitizers based upon perylene tetracarboxylic acid dianhydride. Syntheses, absorption properties, and electrochemical potentials for the new perylenes are reported. We compare the solar conversion efficiencies of the dyes in the dye sensitized solar cell (DSSC) and discuss trends in terms of energetics and structural differences that may affect the injection and recombination processes. These are the highest efficiencies yet reported for perylene sensitizers in the DSSC.
Toxins and Adverse Drug Reactions Affecting the Equine Nervous System

This article provides an overview of the more common toxins and adverse drug reactions, along with more rare toxins and reactions (Table 1), that result in neurologic dysfunction in horses. A wide variety of symptoms, treatments, and outcomes are seen with toxic neurologic disease in horses. An in-depth history and thorough physical examination are needed to determine if a toxin or adverse drug reaction is responsible for the clinical signs. Once a toxin or adverse drug reaction is identified, the specific antidote, if available, and supportive care should be administered promptly.
Net carbon fluxes at stand and landscape scales from wood bioenergy harvests in the US Northeast

The long-term greenhouse gas emissions implications of wood biomass (‘bioenergy’) harvests are highly uncertain yet of great significance for climate change mitigation and renewable energy policies. Particularly uncertain are the net carbon (C) effects of multiple harvests staggered spatially and temporally across landscapes where bioenergy is only one of many products. We used field data to formulate bioenergy harvest scenarios, applied them to 362 sites from the Forest Inventory and Analysis database, and projected growth and harvests over 160 years using the Forest Vegetation Simulator. We compared the net cumulative C fluxes, relative to a nonbioenergy baseline, between scenarios when various proportions of the landscape are harvested for bioenergy: 0% (non-bioenergy); 25% (BIO25); 50% (BIO50); or 100% (BIO100), with three levels of intensification. We accounted for C stored in aboveground forest pools and wood products, direct and indirect emissions from wood products and bioenergy, and avoided direct and indirect emissions from fossil fuels. At the end of the simulation period, although 82% of stands were projected to maintain net positive C benefit, net flux remained negative (i.e., net emissions) compared to non-bioenergy harvests for the entire 160-year simulation period. BIO25, BIO50, and BIO100 scenarios resulted in average annual emissions of 2.47, 5.02, and 9.83 Mg C ha 1 , respectively. Using bioenergy for heating decreased the emissions relative to electricity generation as did removing additional slash from thinnings between regeneration harvests. However, all bioenergy scenarios resulted in increased net emissions compared to the non-bioenergy harvests. Stands with high initial aboveground live biomass may have higher net emissions from bioenergy harvest. Silvicultural practices such as increasing rotation length and structural retention may result in lower C fluxes from bioenergy harvests. Finally, since passive management resulted in the greatest net C storage, we recommend designation of unharvested reserves to offset emissions from harvested stands.
Hybrid capture 2 human papillomavirus DNA testing for women with atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance Papanicolaou results in SurePath and ThinPrep specimens.

BACKGROUND: Human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA testing using Hybrid Capture 2 assay with ThinPrep Papanicolaou (Pap) collection is the only US Food and Drug Administration-approved method for the triage of women with atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS). Although SurePath Pap collection has been used for Hybrid Capture 2 HPV DNA testing, clinical validation of this method has been scarce. METHODS: From a cervical cancer-screening program in Mississippi, we analyzed data from screenings of 8380 women with ASCUS Pap results who underwent reflex Hybrid Capture 2 HPV DNA tests during a course of 4 years. Of these, 4145 were screened with the ThinPrep collection system, and 4235 were screened with SurePath. Results of follow-up biopsies within 3 months of Pap tests were available for the ThinPrep group (229 cases) and the SurePath group (455 cases). Hybrid Capture 2 positive rates and the follow-up biopsy results from both groups were compared. RESULTS: Hybrid Capture 2 detected high-risk HPV DNA in 68.8% of ThinPrep and 66.7% of SurePath-collected specimens (P = .37). Detection rates for CIN2+ and CIN3+ were also comparable between ThinPrep (21.4%, 3.1%) and SurePath (15.4%, 4.2%) using Hybrid Capture 2 (P = .06, P = .45). In ThinPrep-collected specimens, 4.4% were quantitatively insufficient for Hybrid Capture 2 testing. Significantly more equivocal Hybrid Capture 2 results were observed in SurePath (11.4%) than in ThinPrep specimens (3.2%). However, 67.4% of women with equivocal Hybrid Capture 2 results had negative 1-year Pap cytology follow-up in the SurePath group. CONCLUSIONS: Hybrid Capture 2 positive rates and CIN2-3 detection rates were comparable for the SurePath and ThinPrep Pap collection systems, thus supporting the use of SurePath for Hybrid Capture 2 testing. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Mitochondrial aldehyde dehydrogenase and cardiac diseases

Numerous conditions promote oxidative stress, leading to the build-up of reactive aldehydes that cause cell damage and contribute to cardiac diseases. Aldehyde dehydrogenases (ALDHs) are important enzymes that eliminate toxic aldehydes by catalysing their oxidation to non-reactive acids. The review will discuss evidence indicating a role for a specific ALDH enzyme, the mitochondrial ALDH2, in combating oxidative stress by reducing the cellular ‘aldehydic load’. Epidemiological studies in humans carrying an inactive ALDH2, genetic models in mice with altered ALDH2 levels, and small molecule activators of ALDH2 all highlight the role of ALDH2 in cardioprotection and suggest a promising new direction in cardiovascular research and the development of new treatments for cardiovascular diseases.
Techniques for characterizing lignin

This chapter presents the most common techniques used to characterize lignin without depolymerization. These are used to identify the lignin being investigated as well as to evaluate the impact of modifications to lignin and lignin-containing products. A brief discussion of lignin chemistry is included. Understanding the chemical structure can be accomplished using a variety of techniques including ultraviolet spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis are often employed during the study of thermal properties, while dynamic mechanical analysis can be used to investigate both thermal and mechanical properties. In each section, a brief introduction to each technique is followed by examples of its application to lignin.
The hydrodynamics of eel swimming: I. Wake structure

Eels undulate a larger portion of their bodies while swimming than many other fishes, but the hydrodynamic consequences of this swimming mode are poorly understood. In this study, we examine in detail the hydrodynamics of American eels (Anguilla rostrata) swimming steadily at 1.4 L s(-1) and compare them with previous results from other fishes. We performed high-resolution particle image velocimetry (PIV) to quantify the wake structure, measure the swimming efficiency, and force and power output. The wake consists of jets of fluid that point almost directly laterally, separated by an unstable shear layer that rolls up into two or more vortices over time. Previously, the wake of swimming eels was hypothesized to consist of unlinked vortex rings, resulting from a phase offset between vorticity distributed along the body and vorticity shed at the tail. Our high-resolution flow data suggest that the body anterior to the tail tip produces relatively low vorticity, and instead the wake structure results from the instability of the shear layers separating the lateral jets, reflecting pulses of high vorticity shed at the tail tip. We compare the wake structure to large-amplitude elongated body theory and to a previous computational fluid dynamic model and note several discrepancies between the models and the measured values. The wake of steadily swimming eels differs substantially in structure from the wake of previously studied carangiform fishes in that it lacks any significant downstream flow, previously interpreted as signifying thrust. We infer that the lack of downstream flow results from a spatial and temporal balance of momentum removal (drag) and thrust generated along the body, due to the relatively uniform shape of eels. Carangiform swimmers typically have a narrow caudal peduncle, which probably allows them to separate thrust from drag both spatially and temporally. Eels seem to lack this separation, which may explain why they produce a wake with little downstream momentum while carangiform swimmers produce a wake with a clear thrust signature.
Contemporary and Emerging Ethical Issues in Family Therapy

Ethical dilemmas in the field of family therapy continue to evolve; this article addresses ethical issues family therapists are currently confronting or may confront in the future. We begin by examining a movement in the field towards relational ethics, which is inclusive of context, values, and power that permeate all relationships. Using this framework in relation to both our clients and our practice, we discuss defensive and risk-aversive practice of family therapy within our current socio-political context, family therapists working with child alienation in cases of non-normative divorce, the impact of digital technology on families and family therapy, and the polarisation of sexual value issues.
Optogenetic mutagenesis in Caenorhabditis elegans

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) can modify and damage DNA. Here we report an optogenetic mutagenesis approach that is free of toxic chemicals and easy to perform by taking advantage of a genetically encoded ROS generator. This method relies on the potency of ROS generation by His-mSOG, the mini singlet oxygen generator, miniSOG, fused to a histone. Caenorhabditis elegans expressing His-mSOG in the germline behave and reproduce normally, without photoinduction. Following exposure to blue light, the His-mSOG animals produce progeny with a wide range of heritable phenotypes. We show that optogenetic mutagenesis by His-mSOG induces a broad spectrum of mutations including single-nucleotide variants (SNVs), chromosomal deletions, as well as integration of extrachromosomal transgenes, which complements those derived from traditional chemical or radiation mutagenesis. The optogenetic mutagenesis expands the toolbox for forward genetic screening and also provides direct evidence that nuclear ROS can induce heritable and specific genetic mutations.
RACIAL/ETHNIC DIFFERENCES IN EDUCATIONAL ASPIRATIONS OF HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS

Using the secondfollow-up of the National Education Lon- gitudinal Study, we explore how human, financial, and social capital affect educational aspirations differently across racial/ethnic groups. While indi- vidual educational performance is important for all racial/ethnic groups, human and financial capital have stronger impact on educational aspira- tions for whites than for minorities. Asian-American students' aspirations are affected by human capital and whether English is a native language. Parental involvement in school activities-one measure of social capital - has a strong impact on educational aspirations for African Americans and Hispanics. We then explore the causes for racial/ethnic differences in edu- cational aspirations. When individual characteristics and human, financial, and social capital are introduced, racial/ethnic minorities have greater edu- cational aspirations than whites. The results suggest that factors affecting educational aspirations are different across racial/ethnic groups and some of the racial/ethnic differences in educational aspirations can be accounted for by some otherfactors.
Higher Order Cognitive Skills Training in Support of Contemporary Military Operations

The nature of global conflict is changing. Since 2001, the United States has openly engaged in an unconventional military conflict defined by a range of counterterrorism, counterinsurgency, peacekeeping, and infrastructure-building initiatives. To excel within this environment, the US military has adopted new strategic approaches, such as Full-Spectrum and Enhanced Company Operations. Such paradigms share a striking commonality: Much greater emphasis is now being placed on individual personnel's higher-order cognitive skills. This paper outlines the operational requirements that create a demand for efficient, deployable higher-order skills training. The paper also includes a discussion about current efforts aimed at developing instructional technology that can help meet these training needs.
Loose Ends: Considerations on the Aftermaths of the Celtic Tiger and the Northern ‘Troubles’

This chapter is an appraisal of the follies of Irish development strategy, the last and only word in economic reason according to many devotees, since my book on the topic several decades back. Groupthink ran ever more hysterically wild among elites in the Irish Republic right up to the great crash.
A MODEL OF A CURVED PIEZO-STRUCTURE FOR ACTIVE STRUCTURAL ACOUSTIC CONTROL *

Current research in Active Structural Acoustic Control (ASAC) relies heavily upon accurately capturing the dynamics of the structure being controlled. The application of ASAC to aircraft interior noise requires a model of the curved panels which comprise the skin of the fuselage of an aircraft. This paper presents a model of a simply-supported curved panel with attached piezoceramic sensoriactuators. The model is validated by comparison to previous work. Further, experimental results for a simplysupported curved panel test structure are shown to support the model. The effects of curvature on the structural dynamics and their relevance to ASAC are discussed. K
Human DNA polymorphism.

One of the most important tools underlying the revolution in medical genetics is the ability to visualize sequence differences directly in DNA. When studied in the context of a population, these differences in DNA sequences are called polymorphisms; they may occur in coding regions (exons) or noncoding regions of genes. The ability to visualize thousands of DNA polymorphisms has made possible family studies for tracking genes of medical importance. This technique has located and identified genes for many disorders with a clear pattern of mendelian inheritance, such as cystic fibrosis, the inherited muscular dystrophies, and neurodegenerative disorders such as Huntington's . . .