cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Polymerization of the cyclic pyrophosphates of nucleosides and their analogues

When 2-prime-deoxythymidine 3-prime, 5-prime-cyclic diphosphate, or the cyclic pyrophosphates of the acyclic nucleoside analogs II and IV are heated to 65-85 C in the presence of imidazole, oligomers with lengths up to 20-30 are formed in excellent yield. This reaction provides a useful source of oligomers for use as templates in aqueous condensation reactions. In the absence of evidence to the contrary, it is assumed that the oligomers are atactic. The potential significance of this reaction in prebiotic chemistry is discussed.
An efficient multi-resolution GA approach to dental image alignment

Automating the process of postmortem identification of individuals using dental records is receiving an increased attention in forensic science, especially with the large volume of victims encountered in mass disasters. Dental radiograph alignment is a key step required for automating the dental identification process. In this paper, we address the problem of dental radiograph alignment using a Multi-Resolution Genetic Algorithm (MR-GA) approach. We use location and orientation information of edge points as features; we assume that affine transformations suffice to restore geometric discrepancies between two images of a tooth, we efficiently search the 6D space of affine parameters using GA progressively across multi-resolution image versions, and we use a Hausdorff distance measure to compute the similarity between a reference tooth and a query tooth subject to a possible alignment transform. Testing results based on 52 teeth-pair images suggest that our algorithm converges to reasonable solutions in more than 85% of the test cases, with most of the error in the remaining cases due to excessive misalignments.
The contribution of individual patients to the spread of infection.

SUMMARY.— The existence of “dispersers” of micro-organisms in a skin hospital is described. There appeared to be no single factor, such as the diagnosis or the treatment received, which might be responsible, although all dispersers were amongst the most heavily colonized of patients. One strain of staphylococcus appeared to be selectively acquired by patients with mycosis fungoides.
Anti-Hagiography : Embrico of Mainz's Vita Mahumeti

Embrico of Mainz's Vita Mahumeti, composed near the year 1100, is the first substantial biography of Muhammad written in Latin. Embrico wrote it in verse, modelled on the verse hagiography of contemporaries such as Hildebert of Le Mans. Whereas earlier texts had portrayed Islam as pagan idolatry and Muhammad as an idol, Embrico (and subsequent twelfth-century authors) see Islam as a form of Christian heresy-and Muhammad as a particularly vile heresiarch. Earlier studies of this change have explained it as a response to increased knowledge about Islam, but this article argues that the resurgence of heresy within Christian Europe is equally important. In each case, Islam is associated with more familiar forms of doctrinal error: paganism for the early middle ages, heresy for the twelfth century.
Modeling of electromagnetically formed sheet metal

Abstract The intent of this paper is to show that a two-dimensional (2D) arbitrary Lagrangian Eulerian (ALE) finite-difference computer code can accurately predict the dynamics of the electromagnetic sheet metal forming process. The challenging aspect of simulating the deformation of thin metal parts which have been loaded by magnetic forces is solving a highly coupled system of partial differential equations. The material motion and the magnetic physics require two drastically different time steps to maintain numerical stability. The CALE computer code has the ability to solve such challenging problems. This paper highlights the CALE modeling of a number of electromagnetic sheet metal forming operations.
High-Frequency Canonical Wnt Activation in Multiple Sarcoma Subtypes Drives Proliferation through a TCF/β-Catenin Target Gene, CDC25A

Wnt canonical signaling is critical for normal development as well as homeostasis of several epithelial tissues, and constitutive activation of this pathway is commonly observed in carcinomas. We show here that 50% of human sarcomas (n = 45) and 65% of sarcoma cell lines (n = 23) of diverse histological subtypes exhibit upregulated autocrine canonical Wnt signaling. Furthermore, in Wnt autocrine cell lines, we identify alterations including overexpression or gene amplification of Wnt ligands and/or LRP5/6 coreceptors and epigenetic silencing of different cell surface Wnt antagonists. Mutations in adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene were observed in two nonautocrine Wnt-positive sarcoma cell lines. Finally, downregulation of the activated Wnt pathway inhibited sarcoma cell proliferation both in vitro and in vivo by a mechanism involving the downregulation of CDC25A.
A numerical study of the coupling coefficients for pot core transformers

When a circuit containing a transformer is to be simulated, one must know the coupling coefficient or equivalent leakage inductances in addition to the other transformer properties. When other inductances in series with a transformer winding are large compared to the leakage inductance the leakage inductance may be neglected in a simulation. Otherwise, the coupling coefficient must be known or the simulation will be inaccurate. Since the degree of coupling depends on the nature of the winding as well as the core, and is difficult to estimate accurately, we have used numerical techniques to study the trends in coupling with geometric parameters for cores having cylindrical symmetry. Magnetic vector potential has been found using the TOPAZ2D finite element code, and then correspondingly interpolated numerical integration has given the inductances for an equivalent circuit. Results from our calculations show that although the magnetizing inductance changes greatly as a core saturates, the coupling coefficient changes slowly so long as some reasonable effective permeability remains. Actual values depend on the turns ratios and any air gaps present. For a typical pot core geometry without an air gap the coupling coefficient ranges from 0.997 to 0.999 for effective permeabilities from 600 to 1800. With air gaps the coupling coefficient drops, but stays even more constant with permeability. >
The Dark Triad and trait self-objectification as predictors of men's use and self-presentation behaviors on social networking sites

Abstract An online survey of a nationally representative sample of U.S. men aged 18–40 assessed trait predictors of social networking site use as well as two forms of visual self-presentation: editing one’s image in photographs posted on social networking sites (SNSs) and posting “selfies,” or pictures users take of themselves. We examined the Dark Triad (i.e., narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy) and trait self-objectification as predictors. Self-objectification and narcissism predicted time spent on SNSs. Narcissism and psychopathy predicted the number of selfies posted, whereas narcissism and self-objectification predicted editing photographs of oneself posted on SNSs. We discuss selective self-presentation processes on social media and how these traits may influence interpersonal relationship development in computer-mediated communication.
Sources of field-aligned currents in the auroral plasma

Data from the Dynamics Explorer 1 High Altitude Plasma Instrument (HAPI) and magnetometer are used to investigate the sources of field-aligned currents in the nightside auroral zone. It is found that the formula developed by S. Knight predicts the field-aligned current density fairly accurately in regions where a significant potential drop can be inferred from the HAPI data; there are, however, regions in which the proportionality between potential drop and field-aligned current does not hold. In particular, occurrences of strong upward field-aligned current associated not with inverted-V events but instead with suprathermal bursts are noted. In addition, upward field-aligned currents are often observed to peak near the edges of inverted-V events, rather than in the center as would be predicted by Knight.
Multistructured Municipal Water Demand Model

Any system, such as an urban cluster, is always embedded in a larger system either in space or time, and each subsystem is affected by both its subscriptions and the large system of which it is a part. Central to this system model is the development of the interactions of these systems with particular regard to resources. This model provides forecasts of the urban cluster as a result of its interactions with other systems and the realization of alternative goals. The Demand Model is composed of an economic, population, reconciliation and life style submodel. The population is forecast for the large system (nation) and disaggregated to the subsystems (regions, state, counties, urban, etc.) based on resource concepts both probable and possible. Transducers are used to describe the life style of urban areas. Again the transducers are goal oriented. Technical coefficients which are also alternative goal oriented are then used to produce individual or total water needs. As a result a demand model which is goal oriented and also applicable to a wide range of supplydemand studies has been developed.
Detection of Larval Remains after Consumption by Fishes

Abstract In southwestern North America, consumption of native fish larvae by nonnative predators has imperiled native populations. Field-acquired dietary analyses have provided little evidence of this cause-effect relationship. In this study, small, nonnative green sunfish Lepomis cyanellus, bluegills L. macrochirus, red shiners Cyprinella lutrensis, fathead minnow Pimephales promelas, and yellow bullheads Ameiurus natalis were each fed a single larva of the native razorback sucker Xyrauchen texanus. Gut content analysis revealed that prey detection generally became increasingly difficult over a short postconsumption time period under laboratory conditions. For green sunfish, bluegills, and yellow bullheads, significant relationships between prey detection and time were revealed; the probability of prey identification was initially 50% or greater for about 30 min postconsumption, whereas few prey (3%) were identifiable at 60 min postconsumption. For red shiners and fathead minnow (pooled for analysis), no...
An electronic load for testing photovoltaic panels

The characteristics of photovoltaic (PV) panels in the field conditions are to be obtained using a fast varying load. The paper presents a simple electronic load for testing a set of PV panels using linear metal oxide field effect transistors (MOSFETs). The proposed test set up gives the current versus voltage and power versus voltage characteristics of PV panels by quickly scanning the load. Design equations giving the MOSFET rating, and gate voltage range for obtaining a specified portion of the PV panel characteristics are derived. With additional signal processing, the maximum power available from the panels and the corresponding current and voltage values are also obtained. Experimental waveforms obtained on the test circuit are presented.
Why does androgen deprivation enhance the results of radiation therapy

The role of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) has been explored in combination with surgery, brachytherapy, and external beam radiotherapy with the goal of improving local control and overall survival. Multiple cooperative groups' studies strongly support the use of neoadjuvant ADT treated with definitive external beam radiotherapy. Neoadjuvant androgen deprivation improves intraprostatic local control with external beam radiotherapy and reduces the second wave of distant metastases. Neoadjuvant androgen deprivation achieves this endpoint through "sensitization" of the tumor to radiation and through improved oxygenation. However, the use of neoadjuvant ADT before radical prostatectomy and brachytherapy is controversial. There are ongoing clinical trials that will hopefully better define patient populations that will benefit from hormonal deprivation therapy.
Molecular Dynamics Simulations of DNA-Polycation Complex Formation

Complexes formed from DNA and polycations are of interest because of their potential use in gene therapy; however, there remains a lack of understanding of the structure and formation of DNA-polycation complexes at atomic scale. In this work, molecular dynamics simulations of the DNA duplex d(CGCGAATTCGCG) in the presence of polycation chains are carried out to shed light on the specific atomic interaction that result in complex formation. The structures of complexes formed from DNA with polyethylenimine, which is considered one of the most promising DNA vector candidates, and a second polycation, poly-L-lysine, are compared. After an initial separation of ∼50 A, the DNA and polycation come together and form a stable complex within 10 ns. The DNA does not undergo any major structural changes on complexation and remains in the B-form. In the formed complex, the charged amine groups of the polycation mainly interact with DNA phosphate groups, with polycation intrusion into the major and minor grooves dependent on the identity and charge state of the polycation. The ability of the polycation to effectively neutralize the charge of the DNA phosphate groups and the resulting influence on the DNA helix interaction are discussed.
Oxygen-17 nuclear magnetic resonance spectral investigation of 3-alkoxy-trans-3,4-disubstituted-thiolane 1,1-dioxides and related compounds

The 17O NMR spectra of 3-alkoxythiolane 1,1-dioxides indicate that the sulfonyl oxygens are diastereotopic but their chemical shift differences are essentially independent of the structure of the alkyl group in the alkoxy moiety. Eu(fod)3 enhances the 17O chemical shift differences between the diastereotopic sulfonyl oxygens in 3-isopropoxythiolane 1,1-dioxide and shifts both oxygens upfield. α,β-Unsaturation deshields the sulfonyl oxygens in both five- and six-membered rings.
Axial Ratios in Hexagonal Crystals

A theoretical study has been made of the deviations of the axial ratios of hexagonal metal crystals from the ideal close-packing value, both for pure metals and alloys. The deviation is expressed in terms of the "effective stress" which would tend to change the axial ratio in the close-packed configuration, and the observed elastic constants. Using a change of scale procedure, a formula for the "effective stress" is derived in terms of integrals over the electronic wave function in the close-packed configuration. When the Hartree-Fock approximation is used to evaluate the expression for the "effective stress," three contributions are found: (1) a "kinetic stress," (2) an "electrostatic stress," and (3) an "exchange stress." Estimates of each term for pure beryllium indicate that (1), which resembles the effects estimated by Jones and Goodenough, is most important; (2) is negligible; and (3) may be appreciable. It is found that the change in axial ratio with alloying is due to a different mechanism than that proposed by Jones. However, an argument is presented which leads to qualitatively the same conclusions as his concerning the connection between the change in axial ratio and the band structure.
Radiolabeled monoclonal antibodies in the diagnosis and treatment of malignant melanoma

The use of antibodies directed against tumors has found increasing usefulness after the discovery by Kohler and Milstein of hybridoma technology, which made it possible to obtain monoclonal antibody (MoAb) that reacted specifically against a particular epitope on a particular antigen site. Relative tumor specificity and a lack of significant toxicity, together with the ability to link radionuclides (both halogens and metals) without significant deterioration of biologic behavioral characteristics such as immunoreactivity, have enabled widespread use of radiolabeled MoAbs in several malignancies, including and especially malignant melanoma. There is a significant body of data indicating that radiolabeled MoAbs directed against melanoma-associated antigens have an important role in the detection and therapy of metastatic malignant melanoma. Detection of visceral disease, while currently suboptimal, will in the future improve with optimization of SPECT imaging using 99mTc-labeled MoAb Fab fragments. This may result in an attenuated or absent antimouse response, especially after one injection, unless of course coinfused with either specific and/or nonspecific intact immunoglobulin (Ig). Radiolabeled fragments play an important role in radioimmunotherapy in metastatic melanoma. This role may be enhanced by the development of newer chelating agents that will decrease nonspecific hepatic uptake of radionuclide, enabling the use of beta-emitting radiometals such as 90Y. The recent report demonstrating diminished hepatic uptake of 99mTc-labeled anti-high molecular weight antigen (HMWA) Fab shows promise, since the same labeling technique can be used to deliver radiotherapeutic agents such as 186Re, which may be labeled to MoAb with methods similar to those used for 99mTc. Creation of single-chain MoAb determinants, chimera, and human MoAb will obviate the human immune response to foreign proteins that are currently in use and enable multiple administrations of tumor-toxic quantities of radiolabeled MoAbs.
Effect of Posteroinferior Capsule Tightness on Contact Pressure and Area Beneath the Coracoacromial Arch During Pitching Motion

BackgroundTightness of the posteroinferior capsule is assumed to be the cause of internal rotation loss in baseball pitchers. Although the relationship between posterior capsule and subacromial impingement has been recognized, this relationship during the baseball-pitching motion is unclear.HypothesisContact pressure during baseball-pitching motion increases with posterior capsule tightness.Study DesignControlled laboratory study.MethodsEight fresh-frozen shoulders were used. The peak contact pressure and area on the coracoacromial arch were measured on a custom-designed shoulder experimental device capable of 6 degrees of freedom motion. Simultaneously, the sites of peak pressure on the coracoacromial arch and humerus were observed from various angles. The posteroinferior capsule tightness was simulated by plicating the capsule in the region from 6 to 8 o'clock. The static testing positions correlated to the early cocking, late cocking, acceleration, deceleration, and follow-through phases of the pitchin...
Unprotected intercourse among people living with HIV/AIDS: The importance of partnership characteristics

Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine the relative importance and interactive effects of partnership characteristics in unprotected intercourse among people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). An interview study was conducted among a convenience sample of PLWHA in care. Of all the demographic, health status, risk history and behaviors and partnership covariates explored, only the partnership covariates were significantly associated with unprotected intercourse. Significant covariates included having a steady partner (OR and 95%CI = 4.2; 1.3, 13.5), HIV-positive (OR and 95%CI = 2.7; 1.0, 6.9 versus HIV-negative partner) or unknown serostatus partner (OR and 95%CI = 4.6; 1.1, 18.3 versus HIV-negative partner) and men who have sex with men (MSM) partnerships (OR and 95%CI = 3.0; 1.2, 7.3). Partnership covariates explained 23% of the variance in unprotected intercourse; other groups of covariates did not significantly improve model fit. Significant interaction terms between reported partner HIV status...
The effect of age on enolase turnover in the free-living nematode, Turbatrix aceti.

Abstract The rates of synthesis and degradation of enolase and total soluble proteins slow with age in the free-living nematode, Turbatrix aceti . The half-lives are 73 and 58 h for soluble protein and enolase, respectively, in young organisms (5 days old). The respective figures are 163 and 161 h for old organisms (22–30 days old). Similar slowing of protein turnover occurs when the organisms are aged by a repeated screening procedure which avoids the use of fluorodeoxyuridine, an inhibitor of DNA synthesis normally added to aging cultures to obtain synchrony. The results support the idea that slowed protein turnover may be responsible for the formation of altered enzymes in old organisms.
Nondestructive evaluation of thick-composite fatigue damage

This paper describes the results of the comparison of a variety of nondestructive evaluation techniques to monitor the development of fatigue damage in thick graphite/epoxy composites. Three inch long, one inch square cross-section test specimens were fatigue tested in compression. Most specimens incorporated stress (strain) concentration notches at their mid- section in order to localize the primary fatigue damage regions in an optimum location for nondestructive monitoring. The nondestructive techniques evaluated were ultrasonic B- and C- scan, ultrasonic velocity and attenuation, ultrasonic second harmonic generation, acoustic microscopy, acoustic emission, thermography, real-time high-speed digital/video laser speckle decorrelation, magnetic resonance imaging, radio-opaque penetrant enhanced x-radiography, and eddy current. Mechanical resonance spectroscopy was used to measure the second order (linear) elastic moduli. Optical and electron microscopy on cut and polished specimens were used to verify the results of the nondestructive tests.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Zone I extensor reconstruction with tendon salvaged from another finger

Laceration, crush, and avulsion injuries are common acute extensor tendon injuries. Simple lacerations may often be repaired in the emergency room, but crush or avulsion injuries may involve tendon loss and gaps in the extensor tendons. Reconstruction can be difficult. The purpose of this article is to present a salvage technique for reconstruction of large extensor tendon gaps in extensor zone I in patients with severe injuries to multiple fingers. This technique, in which a tendon is transplanted from an unsalvageable finger to another with a terminal tendon gap in the same patient, may be a reasonable remedy for reconstruction of tendon loss or gaps and may offer advantages over other traditional reconstructive techniques in certain cases.
Intermetallic matrix composites prepared by mechanical alloying—a review

Abstract This paper reviews research on intermetallic matrix composites synthesized by mechanical alloying. Mechanical alloying, as a powder processing method, results in discontinuous second phases, i.e. dispersoids/discontinuous reinforcements, in the intermetallic matrix. After a discussion of earlier work on dispersoids in intermetallics, intermetallic matrix composites prepared by mechanical alloying will be reviewed for the important structural intermetallics Fe–40 at.% Al, NiAl, Ni3Al, and MoSi2. The unique microstructure and properties of intermetallic matrix dispersoid systems produced by cryomilling will be discussed. The limited studies of nanocrystalline intermetallic matrix composites suggest the possibility of superplastic forming of these materials.
Quantitation of Effect of Several Stimuli on the Approach of Aedes aegypti

The effects of several stimuli on the approach of Aedes aegypti (L.) were studied at 5 different heights in a specially constructed tower. The stimuli studied were heat (34°C), water vapor, carbon dioxide, and combinations of these. The human palm was studied as a natural source of attractive stimuli. The approach of mosquitoes to different stimuli was quantitated and compared. The number of mosquitoes approaching the palm was maximal compared with other stimuli at all heights; they also came down faster and in maximum numbers. The number of mosquitoes attracted to the palm rose continuously and steadily with time. The mosquitoes approached the palm from distances greater than those from which they approached other stimuli. The study suggests that heat and CO2 are important for the approach of mosquitoes to the host at close proximity, but at greater distance odor seems to be more important in the hierarchy of attractive stimuli.
Comparative experimental evaluation of a new adaptive identifier for underwater vehicles

This paper reports a novel adaptive identifier for underwater vehicles as well as its local stability proof and comparative experimental evaluation. The adaptive identification algorithm estimates the hydrodynamic mass, quadratic drag, gravitational force, and buoyancy parameters of a second-order rigid-body plant under the influence of actuator forces and torques. Adaptive model identification methods do not require instrumentation of vehicle acceleration as required of other standard methods, such as conventional least squares. Previous adaptive model identification methods have focused on model-based adaptive tracking controllers however these approaches are not applicable when the plant is either uncontrolled, under open-loop control, or using any control law other than a specific adaptive tracking controller; the adaptive identifier reported herein does not require reference trajectory-tracking, and thus is applicable in these commonly occurring cases. An experimental comparison of adaptive identification and conventional least squares parameter identification is reported. The adaptively identified model is shown to be similar to the least squares identified model.
Blood cortisol in infants and adults: A postmortem study

Cortisol values were determined in postmortem blood from 15 infants and children between 3 months and 3 years of age, and from 20 adults. Values from the two groups were not statistically different and did not differ from the usual normal values obtained during life. Cortisol concentrations are valid in blood obtained within 18 hours of death.
Predicting nerve guidance conduit performance for peripheral nerve regeneration using bootstrap aggregated neural networks

The inability to identify the optimal construction of a nerve guidance conduit (NGC) for peripheral nerve regeneration is a challenge in the field of tissue engineering. This is attributed to the vast number of parameters that can be combined in varying quantities. A pre-existing normalization standard is applied in this paper which uses a calculated ratio of gap length divided by the graft's critical axon elongation denoted as L/Lc. This allows for a direct comparison of the nerve regenerative activity, a measure of performance, of any NGC across an array of gap lengths relative to a standard nerve conduit. Data was extracted from a total of 28 scientific publications that compared the nerve regenerative activity of experimental NGCs relative to standard NGCs. Of the extracted data, 40 parameters were identified that impacted the performance of the experimental conduits. We demonstrate how bootstrap aggregated neural networks provides substantial increases in accuracy in predicting the performance of a NGC over a single neural network and previous prediction attempts by the SWarm Intelligence based Reinforcement Learning (SWIRL) system. The improved accuracy will provide for a better understanding and insight for theorizing successful strategies for NGC development.
Crystal Structure of Escherichia coli RNase D, an Exoribonuclease Involved in Structured RNA Processing

Summary RNase D (RND) is one of seven exoribonucleases identified in Escherichia coli . RNase D has homologs in many eubacteria and eukaryotes, and has been shown to contribute to the 3′ maturation of several stable RNAs. Here, we report the 1.6 A resolution crystal structure of E. coli RNase D. The conserved DEDD residues of RNase D fold into an arrangement very similar to the Klenow fragment exonuclease domain. Besides the catalytic domain, RNase D also contains two structurally similar α-helical domains with no discernible sequence homology between them. These closely resemble the HRDC domain previously seen in RecQ-family helicases and several other proteins acting on nucleic acids. More interestingly, the DEDD catalytic domain and the two helical domains come together to form a ring-shaped structure. The ring-shaped architecture of E. coli RNase D and the HRDC domains likely play a major role in determining the substrate specificity of this exoribonuclease.
Evaluation of Research on Cooperation and Competition

Competition and cooperation pervade most aspects of our life. In the free enterprise system which dominates our economic life business and industry operate on a competitive basis. Yet, individuals in even the most competitive businesses must work together if their companies are to survive. In sports, the primary emphasis is also on competition, and great importance is attached to being on a "winning" team. But, a team can't win without team work and cooperation between members, for victory often depends on such combined efforts. A similar mixture of cooperation and competition exists in our schools, as Stendler et al. (10) point out. In many classrooms, children are assigned grades on a competitive basis, and, at the same time, they are encouraged to be cooperative and to work with others. As a result of their social importance, cooperation and competition have been the subject of much research. Many of these studies already have been reviewed by Maller ( 3 ) , Cartwright and Zander ( 1 ) , Roseborough (9 ) , Murphy et al. ( 7 ) , and May and Doob (4) . It is not the purpose of this article, therefore, to provide another summary of this research. In a recent review (8 ) , however, one of the writers pointed out some conceptual and methodological difficulties in this research. In the present article these and other points are elaborated, expanded, and more fully developed.
Beam wander analysis for focused partially coherent beams propagating in turbulence

We extend the theory of beam wander for propagation through atmospheric turbulence to the case of a focused partially coherent beam (PCB). In addition to investigating the beam wander expression, we restate expressions for the beam size, long- and short-time average beam intensity profile, and the on-axis scintillation index of tracked and untracked beams. A wave optics simulation is implemented and the numerical results are compared with corresponding analytic results. The cases examined involve turbulence strengths ranging from Cn2 = 10−16 to 10−14 m−2/3 and for various horizontal paths ranging from 1 to 10 km. Although the extended analytic theory stems from a study of coherent beams, the simulation results show good agreement with the analytical results for PCBs in fluctuation regimes ranging from weak to intermediate.
Triphasic brain stem response to detrusor contraction

Summary Single units in the anterior brain stem have been observed for their response to spontaneous contraction of the bladder in awake-immobilized cat. A triphasic response consisting of excitation beginning before the onset of the contraction, inhibition during the contraction, and a second, post-contraction period of excitation was noted which was basically similar to that previously seen in the pallidum. Differences in incidence and characteristics of the response are described.
Increased male sex ratio among brachypterous progeny in Melittobia femorata, a sib‐mating parasitoid wasp (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae)

Melittobia are gregarious ectoparasitoid wasps that primarily attack various solitary bees and wasps. Characterized by high levels of inbreeding and an extremely female-biased sex ratio, these wasps appear to satisfy Hamilton's criteria for local mate competition. However, previous studies of sex ratio have failed to take into account an important aspect of Melittobia life history, namely that every clutch represents the combined reproductive output of the initial foundress female plus as many as 37 non-disperser short-winged daughters. Melittobia femorata Dahms is unique among the 13 species of Melittobia in that adults emerge as two temporally distinct clutches. While the overall sex ratio of the combined progeny from both clutches (0.025 ± 0.01) is typical for that for other Melittobia species (between 0.02 - 0.04 for single foundress cultures of the five other species included in this study), the sex ratio for the brachypterous first clutch of M. femorata from field-parasitized hosts averaged about 10 times greater (0.303 ± 0.10). Laboratory experiments with single foundress M. femorata cultures on the same host species (Trypoxylon politum Say) maintained at 25°C or 30°C produced smaller first clutch sizes compared to the field-infested hosts. While the number of brachypterous first clutch daughters was similar, significantly reduced first clutch sex ratios relative to field-parasitized hosts (0.07 - 0.10) were due to significantly fewer males being produced. Possible reasons for these differences and the elevated first clutch sex ratio in this species are discussed.
Towards Real-Time High Performance Computing for Power Grid Analysis

Real-time computing has traditionally been considered largely in the context of single-processor and embedded systems, and indeed, the terms real-time computing, embedded systems, and control systems are often mentioned in closely related contexts. However, real-time computing in the context of multinode systems, specifically high-performance, cluster-computing systems, remains relatively unexplored. Imposing realtime constraints on a parallel (cluster) computing environment introduces a variety of challenges with respect to the formal verification of the system's timing properties. In this paper, we give a motivating example to demonstrate the need for such a system- an application to estimate the electromechanical states of the power grid- and we introduce an formal method for performing verification of certain temporal properties within a system of parallel processes. We describe our work towards a full real-time implementation of the target application- namely, our progress towards extracting a key mathematical kernel from the application, the formal process by which we analyze the intricate timing behavior of the processes on the cluster, as well as timing measurements taken on our test cluster to demonstrate use of these concepts.
World Power or Tragic Fate? The Kriegsschuldfrage as Historical Neurosis

The question Wer ist schuld am Krieg?, the focus of a propaganda battle already during the Great War, has obsessed German historians unlike any other issue in their recent history. In America the publishing success of Barbara Tuchman's Guns of August, the acclaim of Solzhenitsyn's August 1914, and the continual appearance of paperback introductions testify to an abiding interest in the outbreak of the First World War. But with the exception of the memorable debate between Sindey Fay and Bernadotte Schmidt, there have been no major American contributions because the issue of causes and responsibilities has been seen primarily as an academic problem.
Short-term effects of polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons on sea-surface microlayer phytoneuston

The Puget Sound area, in the state of Washington, is characterized by an increasing population reflected by the growth of Seattle and Tacoma and their respective industrial-based economies. Previous work on the sea-surface microlayer of Puget Sound has shown that contaminant metals and organics are present at some sites at concentrations from 10 to more than 1000 times greater than in underlying sea water. Since the sea-surface microlayer may contain an inordinately high concentration of PAHs relative to the water column, the authors decided to investigated the short-term effect of these hydrophobic contaminants on phytoneuston community dynamics under controlled in situ conditions during this summer season when bloom conditions can prevail in areas of Puget Sound.
Pulmonary vein stenosis and necrotising enterocolitis: Is there a possible link with necrotising enterocolitis?

Objectives While acquired pulmonary vein stenosis (PVS) is an often lethal anomaly with poor long-term prognosis and high mortality, little is known about the causes of this disease process. The purpose of this study was to describe the possible association between acquired PVS and necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) in premature infants. Study design We performed a retrospective review of all premature infants ( Results Twenty patients met inclusion criteria and were diagnosed with acquired PVS. The median gestational age was 27 weeks. 50% (10/20) of the infants had NEC during their hospital course. The NEC group had significantly lower birth weights in comparison to the non-NEC group. There was no difference between groups with regards to the age at diagnosis of PVS. The mean gradient across the pulmonary veins was higher in the NEC group, as was mortality. Conclusions There appears to be a high incidence of NEC in premature infants who are diagnosed with acquired PVS. Future large controlled studies are needed to further analyse this association and to evaluate the possible role of abdominal inflammation in the development of PVS in premature infants.
Revision of full-thickness skin grafts using the carbon dioxide laser.

. The occasional hypertrophic scarring that occurs with full-thickness skin grafting can be effectively revised using the carbon dioxide laser. This technique can be precisely performed due to the limited zone of destruction produced by this wavelength of laser energy when it has contact with living, soft tissue. Additionally, the hemostasis provided by this instrument allows excellent visibility and provides maximum opportunity for proper control. The technique utilized in this procedure will be presented.
Profitability of Dairy Cow Herd Life

Abstract A dynamic model of a dairy herd was utilized to determine profitability of extending cow herd life. The model incorporated estimates of relationships between cow age, milk production, labor requirements, health costs, reproductive diseases, mastitis, and fertility. The basal situation simulated was a herd of approximately 80 cows producing their own replacements selected by pedigree index, culling cows on cost per unit of production, and breeding cows by artificial insemination with a time trend for sire genetic merit. Increasing cow herd life was simulated by lowering the culling criteria of cow profitability. Extending herd life resulted in more days open, lower annual milk yield per cow, decreased replacement cost and cull cow income, and increased cow health cost. Criterion of herd profitability was discounted income of cow or annual net income over 25 yr with future returns discounted 5% per year. Extending average herd life from 2.8 to 3.3 lactations increased average annual income by $29.92 per cow and increased discounted income by $314.52 (1977 to 1978 dollars). The profitability of a limited increase of average herd life was insensitive to increased feed price, poor management, decreased salvage value, trend of improving management, but high salvage value and low feed price significantly decreased profitability of extended herd life.
Regression tree classification for activity prediction in smart homes

The growing number of older adults in the population has created an increasing need for health-assistive systems, including prompting interventions to provide activity reminders. In this paper, we present a new regression-tree-based activity forecasting algorithm to predict the occurrence of future activities for prompting initiation of such activities. This automated algorithm extracts high-level features from sensor events and inputs these features to a machine learning algorithm which forecasts when a target activity will next occur. We compare this system to a standard linear regression classification using real data from smart homes. The forecasting algorithm is shown to provide lower error rates over the linear regression model.
Carotenoid access and intraspecific variation in plumage pigmentation in male American Goldfinches (Carduelis tristis) and Northern Cardinals (Cardinalis cardinalis)

Summary 1 Behavioural ecologists have shown much interest recently in the factors that promote variation in carotenoid-based colour displays. Because vertebrates cannot synthesize the pigments needed to attain this form of bright coloration, most research has focused on the effect of dietary access to pigments on carotenoid ornamentation. 2 However, few studies have considered experimentally how the availability of carotenoid pigments in the diet influences variability in the expression of carotenoid-based coloration. 3 Dietary access to carotenoids was manipulated in captive groups of male American Goldfinches (Carduelis tristis L.) and Northern Cardinals (Cardinalis cardinalis L.) to assess the role of pigment acquisition in shaping intraspecific variation in carotenoid-based plumage pigmentation. 4 Substantial variation was detected in the plumage displays of captive male goldfinches and cardinals within a diet treatment, such that birds with unlimited access to the same diet type displayed carotenoid-based plumage variation that did not differ significantly from that typical of wild males from each species. Additionally, the natural plumage brightness that male goldfinches displayed at capture predicted the degree to which they grew colourful plumage under controlled conditions in our experiments. 5 These results suggest that carotenoid-based plumage variation in male goldfinches and cardinals is less sensitive to pigment availability in the diet than colour variation observed in other studied taxa. Differences in ornamental coloration among males from these two passerine species may instead reflect their ability to utilize ingested pigments physiologically.
Change of the State by the Dynamical Law and by the Measuring Process—The Stern-Gerlach Experiment

As an illustration of the characteristic features by which quantum mechanics differs from the classical theories, this chapter discusses the change of the state by a measurement. In a Gedanken experiment with the Stern-Gerlach apparatus it is shown that a polarized beam (a pure state) cannot be split by the magnetic field and that the splitting of such a beam is a consequence of the measurement.
Drama: Transforming the Pathology of Compulsive Repetition.

This article offers an investigation into the links between dramatic activity and the repetition compulsion. Aspects of Freud's discussions on the fort-da game and the process of transference and countertransference are highlighted in their connection to psychological aspects of dramatic activity. Various aspects of the drive to repeat as manifested in dramatic forms are considered for their therapeutic possibilities, with the conclusion that from the pathological need to repeat can come therapeutic possibilities in the human tendency for people to restage and reobserve their lives.
The Malone Antegrade Colonic Enema Enhances the Quality of Life in Children Undergoing Urological Incontinence Procedures

AbstractPurpose: Functional alterations of the gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts, and physical limitations in children with spina bifida, imperforate anus and spinal cord injury challenge the ability to have independent fecal and urinary continence. Urologists have successfully helped these patients achieve urinary continence. We report our experience with the antegrade colonic enema procedure, which allows select individuals to achieve continence of stool, enhancing quality of life.Materials and Methods: Since December 1992, 18 antegrade colonic enema procedures were performed in 12 female and 6 male patients 5 to 31 years old of whom 14 had spina bifida, 2 had imperforate anus and 2 had spinal cord injury. Simultaneous urological continence procedures were performed in 8 patients, including appendicovesicostomy in 4, augmentation cystoplasty in 2 and augmentation cystoplasty plus an ileal Mitrofanoff procedure in 2. Four patients previously underwent urological reconstruction.Results: In 24 mont...
Odds of abuse associated with retinal hemorrhages in children suspected of child abuse.

Purpose To describe the prevalence of retinal hemorrhages in children being evaluated for abusive head trauma and quantify the association between the likelihood of abuse and the presence and severity of retinal hemorrhages. Methods Retrospective cross-sectional study of 110 children aged 15 months or younger who were evaluated for abusive head trauma and received an ophthalmological examination. The child abuse specialist's diagnosis was categorized as definite accident, probable accident, probable abuse, or definite abuse, according to an algorithm that excluded eye findings. Retinal hemorrhage severity was scored on a 12-point scale (6 points per eye) based on type, size, location, and extent. Higher scores indicated greater severity of eye findings. Results Seventy-four percent of children were younger than 6 months old. Forty-five percent of cases were definite abuse and 37% were definite accident. The prevalence of retinal hemorrhages was 32%. Across all subjects, the presence of retinal hemorrhage was highly associated with definite or probable abuse versus definite or probable accident (age-adjusted odds ratio 5.4 [95% CI, 2.1-13.6]). The odds ratio in children younger than 6 months (n = 81) was 11.7 (95% CI, 2.9-66.8). Retinal hemorrhage severity was higher in abuse versus accident ( p r = 0.406, p Conclusions Retinal hemorrhages are highly associated with abusive head trauma, particularly in children younger than 6 months of age. Increasing retinal hemorrhage severity is correlated with increasing likelihood of abuse.
The association of physician-specialty density and melanoma prognosis in the United States, 1988 to 1993.

Background Studies suggest physician workforce may influence cancer outcomes. Objective We sought to quantify the effect of physician-specialty density on melanoma prognosis. Methods Data from 17,702 melanoma cases reported to the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program from 1988 to 1993 were merged with sociodemographic data (1990 US Census) and dermatologist, family practitioner, and internist density data (Area Resource File). Linear and logistic regression analyses were used to model prognosis (melanoma mortality to incidence ratio). Results A higher density of dermatologists was associated with better prognosis (lower mortality to incidence ratio) (β = –50 × 10 −4 ; SE 8 × 10 −4 ). Internist density was also a significant predictor of better prognosis whereas increased family practitioner density was associated with worse prognosis. Controlling for sociodemographics, physician density remained a significant predictor of the mortality to incidence ratio. Limitations Socioeconomic factors were estimated. Physician density was examined by county. Conclusion Controlling for sociodemographic factors, physician-specialty density predicted melanoma prognosis. This suggests that specialist health care availability may affect melanoma outcomes.