cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Two cortical systems for memory-guided behaviour

Although the perirhinal cortex (PRC), parahippocampal cortex (PHC) and retrosplenial cortex (RSC) have an essential role in memory, the precise functions of these areas are poorly understood. Here, we review the anatomical and functional characteristics of these areas based on studies in humans, monkeys and rats. Our Review suggests that the PRC and PHC-RSC are core components of two separate large-scale cortical networks that are dissociable by neuroanatomy, susceptibility to disease and function. These networks not only support different types of memory but also appear to support different aspects of cognition.
Mass parameter in nuclear quadrupole motion

The self-cranked generator coordinate (SCGC) formalism described earlier for computing the mass parameter for collective nuclear motion is cast into a form containing no explicit reference to the Hamiltonian. The expression is then specialized to the nuclear model of deformed harmonic oscillators. The usual Gaussian overlap approximation is eschewed in favor of direct evaluation of the appropriate matrix elements. Exchange terms are handled by a diagrammatic technique. The validity of certain assumptions made in the derivation of the mass formula is tested numerically. The effects of pairing and of short-range Jastrow correlations are investigated. The SCGC mass parameter is computed for several $N=Z$ nuclei and found to be smaller than either the cranking or the irrotational values, if no correlations are included. The inclusion of short-range correlations is shown to lead to important changes in the value of the mass parameter.
Parallel genetic algorithms with local search

This paper presents methods of applying local search to global optimization problems. The most common approach, multistart, selects the best solution from restarts of local search from random starting points. Partitional methods augment local search with general principles concerning the location of global optima in real space, significantly improving the effectiveness of local search in function optimization problems. Standard partitional methods, however, are not directly applicable to combinatorial optimization problems. We describe a genetic algorithm, GALO, that is similar to the partitional methods, but can be applied to combinatorial problems. Empirical results are presented for a parallel implementation of GALO that show it to be effective for the quadratic assignment problem.
Evidence from Claw Geometry Indicating Arboreal Habits of Archaeopteryx

The Late Jurassic Archaeopteryx has been thought to have been a feathered predator adapted to running that represented a terrestrial stage in the evolution of true birds from coelurosaurian dinosaurs. Examination of claw geometry, however, shows that (i) modern ground- and tree-dwelling birds can be distinguished on the basis of claw curvature, in that greater claw arcs characterize tree-dwellers and trunk-climbers, and (ii) the claws of the pes (hind foot) and manus (front hand) of Archaeopteryx exhibit degrees of curvature typical of perching and trunk-climbing birds, respectively. On this basis, Archaeopteryx appears to have been a perching bird, not a cursorial predator.
The use of airborne lidar to assess avian species diversity, density, and occurrence in a pine/aspen forest

Abstract Vegetation structure is an important factor that influences wildlife-habitat selection, reproduction, and survival. However, field-based measurements of vegetation structure can be time consuming, costly, and difficult to undertake in areas that are remote and/or contain rough terrain. Light detection and ranging (lidar) is an active remote sensing technology that can quantify three-dimensional vegetation structure over large areas and thus holds promise for examining wildlife-habitat relationships. We used discrete-return airborne lidar data acquired over the Black Hills Experimental Forest in South Dakota, USA in combination with field-collected vegetation and bird data to assess the utility of lidar data in quantifying vegetation structural characteristics that relate to avian diversity, density, and occurrence. Indices of foliage height diversity calculated from lidar data were positively and significantly correlated with indices of bird species diversity, with the highest correlations observed when foliage height diversity categories contained proportionally more foliage layers near the forest floor (
Modeling Dam-Break Flood Over Natural Rivers Using Discontinuous Galerkin Method

A well-balanced numerical model is presented for two-dimensional, depth-averaged, shallow water flows based on the Discontinuous Galerkin (DG) method. The model is applied to simulate dam-break flood in natural rivers with wet/dry bed and complex topography. To eliminate numerical imbalance, the pressure force and bed slope terms are combined in the shallow water flow equations. For partially wet/dry elements, a treatment of the source term that preserves the well-balanced property is presented. A treatment for modeling flow over initially dry bed is presented. Numerical results show that the time step used is related to the dry bed criterion. The intercell numerical flux in the DG method is computed by the Harten-Lax-van Contact (HLLC) approximate Riemann solver. A two-dimensional slope limiting procedure is employed to prevent spurious oscillation. The robustness and accuracy of the model are demonstrated through several test cases, including dam-break flow in a channel with three bumps, laboratory dam-break tests over a triangular bump and an L-shape bend, dam-break flood in the Paute River, and the Malpasset dam-break case. Numerical results show that the model is robust and accurate to simulate dam-break flood over natural rivers with complex geometry and wet/dry beds.
Regulation of Dendritic Development by Neuronal Activity

Proper development of dendrites is essential for the establishment of neuronal circuitry. The elaboration of the dendritic tree is a highly dynamic and regulated process, which involves the formation of new branches as well as the maintenance or elimination of pre-existing branches. This review describes recent advances in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of activity-dependent dendritic development. Neuronal activity triggers calcium-mediated signaling events that affect the structural components of dendrites and adhesion molecules. These calcium-induced signaling pathways also target nuclear transcription factors thereby controlling expression of genes required for dendritic development. Thus, a coordinated response to calcium-regulated signaling pathways mediates activity-dependent dendritic development.
Morphological Development in PDMS/Teos Hybrid Materials

PDMS was used as an additive to TEOS based gels in order to improve macroscopic properties for applications such as thermal insulators. The morphological features developed in the PDMS/TEOS hybrid materials were studied by small-angle x-ray scattering and small-angle light scattering. The thermal properties of the material are controlled by nano-scale morphology. A main feature in the nano-scale is mass-fractal domains. As PDMS is incorporated into the TEOS system, a macroscopic network structure becomes dominant, and toughness is enhanced. A monolithic structure is observed macroscopically. The results indicate that PDMS can be used to develop micron morphologies for toughening these materials.
Angiotensin Receptor Blockers

Angiotensin receptor blockers (also known as ARBs) are a class of medications that are widely used by patients with high blood pressure, kidney disease, and heart failure. This article provides information for patients who receive this type of medication. The Table lists the brand and chemical names for the angiotensin receptor blockers that are available in the United States. View this table: List of Angiotensin Receptor Blockers Available in the United States Angiotensin receptor blockers work by inhibiting the effects of a hormone called angiotensin 2, which produces a number of effects in the body: Constriction of blood vessels, increased salt and water retention, activation of the sympathetic nervous system, stimulation of blood vessel and heart fibrosis (stiffening), and promotion of heart cell growth. Together, these effects can increase blood pressure and in some situations be harmful to the heart and kidneys. For angiotensin 2 to produce its effects in the body, it must bind to a receptor in much the same way that a …
Outcome analysis of external coloanal anastomosis.

Abstract Background: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of treating low-lying rectal lesions with resection and primary repair using a pull-through technique with rectal stump eversion and external coloanal anastomosis with immediate reintroduction into the pelvis. Methods: All coloanal anastomoses with the above technique on the Gastrointestinal Surgery Service at the University of Pittsburgh from March 1990 to September 1995 were evaluated. Results: Fifty-two patients underwent coloanal anastomoses with the above technique, and follow-up was available for 96% (50 of 52) of patients. Rectal lesions in the 50 patients included cancer (n = 34), rectal adenomas (n = 13), and other lesions (n = 3). Mean follow-up period was 29.6 ± 21.8 months (28.5 months for patients with carcinoma). Fecal continence was normal or good in 88% (44 of 50) of patients. Moderate or complete incontinence was present in 12% (6 of 50) of patients. The local recurrence rate of rectal cancer was 0%. Morbidity occurred in 22% (11 of 50) of patients. Survival was 90% (45 of 50 patients). Conclusions: Coloanal anastomosis with this technique provides effective treatment for low-lying malignant or benign rectal lesions and has an acceptable complication rate.
Measuring impairment and functional limitations in children with cerebral palsy.

Objective. The disablement model provides a theoretical framework for the assessments of individuals with cerebral palsy (CP). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relative validity of multiple measures for impairment and functional limitations and to estimate the relationship between the two global factors using confirmatory factor analysis.Methods. Over 50 measures of impairment and functional limitations were collected for 57 children with spastic CP. There were 12, 10, 5, 7 and 23 children who were classified in Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) Levels I to V, respectively.Results. The measures of impairment with the highest factor loadings were several single-item ratings of spasticity; the Modified Ashworth hamstring and biceps ratings, and goniometric measures. All of the functional limitation measures had high factor loadings, including the gross motor function measure, GMFCS, the Paediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory and WeeFIM self care and mobility scales. The ...
Crack-induced Changes in Divergence and Flutter of Cantilevered Composite Panels

The aeroelastic characteristics of a cantilevered composite panel of large aspect ratio and with an edge crack are investigated. The panel consists of several fiber-reinforced composite plies, and ...
Recent progress in nanoimprint technology and its applications

Nanoimprint is an emerging lithographic technology that promises high-throughput patterning of nanostructures. Based on the mechanical embossing principle, nanoimprint technique can achieve pattern resolutions beyond the limitations set by the light diffractions or beam scatterings in other conventional techniques. This article reviews the basic principles of nanoimprint technology and some of the recent progress in this field. It also explores a few alternative approaches that are related to nanoimprint as well as additive approaches for patterning polymer structures. Nanoimprint technology can not only create resist patterns as in lithography but can also imprint functional device structures in polymers. This property is exploited in several non-traditional microelectronic applications in the areas of photonics and biotechnology.
Metaphors as seeds for conceptual change and the improvement of science teaching

This article reviews research on the relationships between teacher metaphors and the teaching and learning of science. Metaphors are portrayed as one of several ways in which knowledge about science teaching can be re-presented and as potential foci for critical discussions about enacted science curricula and powerful tools for generating new ways of thinking about teaching and learning of science. Descriptions are provided of teachers constructing metaphors to fit their classroom practices and of metaphors being used to conceptualize salient teaching roles and implement changes in the classroom. Applications of metaphors, and associated narratives and sketches, as tools for generating propositional and procedural knowledge and changing teaching practices are provided throughout the article. Specific attention is given to applications for the education of prospective and practicing science teachers. © 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The Establishment of Long-Range Order in Ni2Cr Using Electron Microscopy

Using selected area diffraction in transmission electron microscopy, long-range order in Ni2Cr has been clearly detected. Specimens showing order had been aged for 630 h at 500 °C or for four months at 479 °C. The domain size for the specimen aged at 500 °C was about 100 A, but the domains for the specimen aged at 479 °C were too small to be resolved. Unter Benutzung elektronenmikroskopischer Beobachtungen konnte eine Fernordnung in Ni2Cr deutlich erkannt werden. Die Proben, die diese Fernordnung aufwiesen, waren entweder uber 630 Stunden bei 500 °C oder uber vier Monate bei 479 °C erhitzt worden. Die Grose der geordneten Bereiche der bei 500 °C erhitzten Proben betrug ungefahr 100 A; die Bereiche der bei 479 °C erhitzten Proben konnten nicht ermittelt werden, weil sie zu klein waren.
SPATIAL SCALE OF VARIATION IN FITNESS OF ERIGERON ANNUUS

Environmental heterogeneity can maintain genetic variation when it disrupts the genetic correlation of fitness across environments such that no single genotype is superior in all sites. Whether spatial variation in selection leads to a stable polymorphism depends in part on the scale of environmental heterogeneity relative to dispersal and density dependence. I measured the lifetime survival and reproduction of six genotypes of Erigeron annuus (Asteraceae) along two 30-m transects in an early-successional field. Significant genotype-environment interactions for fitness occurred at scales of 10-20 cm and 1-3 m, which shows that selection was significantly heterogeneous at those scales. The spatial pattern of fitness variation was shown by the decline of the cross-environment genetic correlation of fitness as a function of distance. Correlations of fitness among plots separated by 10 cm and 75 cm were significantly larger than expected for randomly chosen plots. Beyond 1 m there was little similarity in the...
An investigation of user interface designs for an automated part recognition system

Abstract This research documents the results of an empirical investigation of five user interfaces designed for an automated part recognition system. The primary objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of the designs with respect to both user performance and preference. The interfaces combine three system command structures (menu, button, keypad) with three input devices (mouse, UnMouseTM, touchscreen). Empirical results indicate that the successful performance of required user-system interactions tasks remains independent of interface design; none of the interface designs degrade human task performance. Users indicate a preference for a button-style command structure.
Comments on search procedures for primitive roots

Let p be an odd prime. Assuming the Extended Riemann Hypothesis, we show how to construct O((logp) 4 (loglogp) -3 ) residues modulo p, one of which must be a primitive root, in deterministic polynomial time. Granting some well-known character sum bounds, the proof is elementary, leading to an explicit algorithm.
Inertia effects on compressible squeeze films

In this paper, the combined effects of compressibility and fluid inertia in a squeeze film are considered. The governing equations are derived using an integral method for a one-dimensional case, initially considering a combination of Couette and Poiseuille flows. Numerical and experimental results are obtained for the case of a pure squeeze film between flat circular disks. Influence of the film geometry was examined by considering a cavity on the surface of one of the disks. The numerical solutions are obtained by use of the Crank-Nicholson method with Lax modification. Comparison of the numerical results for pressure in the film with the experimental results show good agreement. The inertia of the fluid is found to significantly influence the pressure waveform in the film by altering the phase of the pressure developed in the film with respect to the oscillating disk. It is shown that these phase changes lead to «resonances» in the mean bearing force. The results also show that the mean bearing force can be superambient or subambient depending on the squeeze number. Both the damping and the bearing force show a «jump» at a critical squeeze number. Damping due to the fluid layer is shown to be amplitude-dependent
Economic growth potential creating a real put and the resulting valuation of the firm

What do innovative new firms in our dynamic economy do to the value of existing firms? Using Schumpeter’s creative destruction idea, we expand the valuation model to incorporate these dynamics. Our model shows that these dynamics should have a greater effect on smaller firms, those in closer to perfect product market competition and those with less financial market following, as they get less market feedback for warning of new competition. This additional consideration in valuation is named the “real put” as it is an optionagainst value. Simply stated, it is an amount subtracted from a firm’s market value of capitalized earnings, plus any growth potential (that might create destructive competition against other producers) to get its net value. Following Schumpeter, new entrepreneurs and larger firms that mimic existing entrepreneurs are the innovators of new products and services. They create the real put against value in their potential competitors. We empirically test this using Morningstar’s “moat” classification of firms. We find firms with “wider moats” meaning greater product market power have much lower delisting rates that indicate smaller puts against value being exercised. While we are not the first in finance to view Schumpeter’s ideas, this is the first paper to consider its direct effect on valuation.
The relationship of posture to myofascial pain dysfunction syndrome

A controlled study was performed to test the hypothesis that myofascial pain dysfunction syndrome is related to posture. Thirty patients with myofascial pain of the muscles of mastication were compared with 30 control patients in 28 parameters of posture. The results of this study indicated no significant differences between the two groups in any parameter tested.
Hyperaminoacidemia in rabbits treated with 6-azauridine triacetate.

Abstract The administration of 6-azauridine triacetate to rabbits results in the appearance of homocystine, homocysteine-cysteine disulphide, β-aminoisobutyric acid, and an elevation of cystathionine levels in the serum.
Fast heap transform-based QR-decomposition of real and complex matrices: algorithms and codes

In this paper, we describe a new look on the application of Givens rotations to the QR-decomposition problem, which is similar to the method of Householder transformations. We apply the concept of the discrete heap transform, or signal-induced unitary transforms which had been introduced by Grigoryan (2006) and used in signal and image processing. Both cases of real and complex nonsingular matrices are considered and examples of performing QR-decomposition of square matrices are given. The proposed method of QR-decomposition for the complex matrix is novel and differs from the known method of complex Givens rotation and is based on analytical equations for the heap transforms. Many examples illustrated the proposed heap transform method of QR-decomposition are given, algorithms are described in detail, and MATLAB-based codes are included.
Independence Giving or Autonomy Taking? Childhood Predictors of Decision‐Sharing Patterns Between Young Adolescents and Parents

This article reports on a study of whether young adolescents make decisions autonomously, share decisions with their parents, or have decisions made for them by parents. Using a sample of 2,632 12-and 13-year-olds from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1979 Child Survey we examine how childhood behavior and competence influence decision patterns in young adolescence. Individual models are used to test whether traits predict decision patterns, and sibling fixed-effects models allow us to estimate effects of child characteristics net of stable family contributions. In both individual and sibling fixed-effects models, children with higher verbal ability share more decision-making with parents. Children with greater mathematical aptitude and children who are impulsive are more likely to make decisions without consulting parents. The impulsivity effect is stronger in families with fewer resources. These results suggest that children directly and indirectly influence household decision-sharing patterns.
The Turkish Version of the Cognitive and Affective Mindfulness Scale-Revised

The mindfulness approach to psychotherapy has become a topic of continuously growing scientific interest. In accordance with such interest, various self-report assessment tools have been developed to measure the mindfulness construct. The majority of the studies conducted to investigate the properties of these assessment instruments included Western populations. Thus, the measurement of mindfulness in non-Western cultures still requires further research. Based on this premise, the psychometric properties of the 10 item Cognitive and Affective Mindfulness Scale-Revised (CAMS-R) were investigated in two different studies using two non-clinical Turkish samples. In Study 1, the psychometric properties of the 10 item CAMS-R were examined in an undergraduate student sample (N = 265). Study 2 extended the examination of the psychometric properties of the CAMS-R to an adult community sample consisting of white-collar public employees (N = 88). The results of both studies showed that the Turkish CAMS-R possessed acceptable levels of internal consistency and the scale displayed convergent as well as concurrent validity. Statistically meaningful relationships were found between mindfulness as measures by Turkish CAMS-R and depression, anxiety, well-being as well as perceived stress. The findings from both studies suggest CAMS-R retains its psychometric properties when utilized in a non-Western culture and the Turkish version of CAMS-R is a valid instrument which can be used to measure mindfulness in the Turkish population.
Role of polymerase chain reaction in early diagnosis of herpes zoster ophthalmicus in children

Herpes zoster ophthalmicus is uncommon in children, and diagnosis may be delayed until the typical skin lesions become apparent. Delay in appropriate treatment may result in sight-threatening complications. We report a case of an 18-month-old child in whom we promptly confirmed the clinical suspicion of herpes zoster ophthalmicus by the identification of viral DNA using polymerase chain reaction. This procedure enabled us to administer prompt antiviral treatment, preventing sight-threatening sequelae. We review the literature regarding the possible mechanism of herpes zoster ophthalmicus in immunocompetent children and discuss the role of polymerase chain reaction in its diagnosis.
Characteristics of disfluency clusters over time in preschool children who stutter.

Purpose Disfluency clusters in preschool children were analyzed to determine whether they occurred at rates above chance, whether they changed over time, and whether they could differentiate children who would later persist in, or recover from, stuttering. Method Thirty-two children recruited near stuttering onset were grouped on the basis of their eventual course of stuttering and matched to 16 normally fluent children. Clusters were classified as stuttering-like disfluencies (SLD), other disfluencies (OD), or mixed (SLD and OD combined). Cluster frequency and length were calculated for all children and again after 6 months for those who stuttered. Results Clusters occurred at rates greater than chance for both stuttering and normally fluent children. Children who stuttered had significantly more and longer clusters than did normally fluent children. Close to stuttering onset, clusters did not differentiate the course of stuttering. Cluster frequency and length decreased over time for children in the per...
Strategic planning for office automation

Abstract A conceptual model of strategic planning for office automation is developed. Survey data on the practice of strategic planning for office automation in 59 Fortune 500 firms is presented as is the perceived value associated with the results of the process. An analysis shows that firms that adhered more closely to the conceptual model perceived more value than those that did not.
Innovation and Translation Efforts in Wireless Medical Connectivity, Telemedicine and eMedicine: A Story from the RFID Center of Excellence at the University of Pittsburgh

Translational research has recently been rediscovered as one of the basic tenants of engineering. Although many people have numerous ideas of how to accomplish this successfully, the fundamental method is to provide an innovative and creative environment. The University of Pittsburgh has been accomplishing this goal though a variety of methodologies. The contents of this paper are exemplary of what can be achieved though the interaction of students, staff, faculty and, in one example, high school teachers. While the projects completed within the groups involved in this paper have spanned other areas, the focus of this paper is on the biomedical devices, that is, towards improving and maintaining health in a variety of areas. The spirit of the translational research is discovery, invention, intellectual property protection, and the creation of value through the spinning off of companies while providing better health care and creating jobs. All but one of these projects involve wireless radio frequency (RF) energy for delivery. The remaining device can be wirelessly connected for data collection.
Pontine and Thalamic Influences on Fluid Rewards: III. Anticipatory Contrast for Sucrose and Corn Oil

An anticipatory contrast effect (ACE) occurs when, across daily trials, an animal comes to respond less than normally to a first stimulus when it is followed shortly by a second, more preferred solution. Classically, ACE is studied using a low (L) concentration of saccharin or sucrose, followed by access to a higher (H) concentration of sucrose. Subjects in the control condition have two bouts of access to the weaker solution presented on the same schedule. The ACE is measured by the difference in intake of the first bout low solution between subjects in the low-low (L-L) vs. the low-high (L-H) conditions. Here we used this paradigm with sham feeding rats and determined that nutritional feedback was unnecessary for the development of ACE with two concentrations of sucrose or with two concentrations of corn oil. Next we showed that ibotenic acid lesions centered in the orosensory thalamus spared ACEs for both sucrose and corn oil. In contrast, lesions of the pontine parabrachial nuclei (PBN), the second central relay for taste in the rat, disrupted ACEs for both sucrose and corn oil. Although the sensory modalities needed for the oral detection of fats remain controversial, it appears that the PBN is involved in processing the comparison of disparate concentrations of sucrose and oil reward.
Superfluid helium transfer flight demonstration using the thermomechanical effect

Abstract In this Paper the use of a thermomechanical pump is investigated for the transfer of superfluid helium in the microgravity of a Shuttle or Space Station. The concept is currently being tested in a ground based experiment and an associated Shuttle demonstration experiment is being designed.
Microtubules and the intracellular conversion of proparathyroid hormone to parathyroid hormone.

The effects of several compounds which interfere with cellular microfilaments and microtubules on the conversion of proparathyroid hormone (ProPTH) to parathyroid hormone (PTH) were examined in slices of bovine parathyroid slices incubated in vitro with 3H-leucine. Inhibitors of microtubular function, vinblastine and colchicine, increased the ratio of 3H-labeled ProPTH to PTH in the tissue by 2- to 3-fold. Cytochalasin B, an inhibitor of microfilaments, was without effect. Concentrations of colchicine as low as 10-6M maximally increased the ratio of ProPTH to PTH, whereas lumicolchicine, an analogue of colchicine which does not affect the function of microtubules, had no effect at concentrations as high as 10-4M. The increased ratio of ProPTH to PTH was due partly to a stimulation by vinblastine and colchicine of the incorporation of 3H-leucine into ProPTH but not into general protein. However, after short incubations of parathyroid tissue with 3H-leucine, the amount of 3H-labeled PTH was less in colchici...
Fourier-based approach to interpolation in helical CT exploiting redundant fan-beam information

We present two new approaches to single-slice helical computed tomography image reconstruction that exploit the fast Fourier transform and the Fourier shift theorem to generate from the helical projection data a set of fan-beam sinograms corresponding to equispaced transverse slices. Slice-by-slice reconstruction is then performed by use of two-dimensional fan-beam algorithms. The first approach, called 360 FT, makes us only of the directly measured projection data, but an extension called 180 FT exploits the redundancy of fan-beam data acquired over 360 degree to generate a second set of longitudinal samples at each projection angle and bin. The proposed approaches are compared to their counterparts based on the use of linear interpolation -- the 360 LI and 180 LI approaches. Particular attention is paid to the spatially variant aliasing that has recently been shown to be an important consideration in helical CT, and which affects the 360 LI and 180 LI approaches equally despite the latter's use of the additional fan-beam redundancy samples. Remarkably, because of the way it makes use of the fan-beam redundancy data, the proposed 180 FT approach is found to eliminate this spatially variant aliasing under certain conditions. This is a clear advantage of the approach and represents a step toward the desirable goal of achieving isotropic resolution in reconstructed helical CT volumes.
Targeting Bcl-2-mediated cell death as a novel therapy in pancreatic cancer.

Background Bcl-2 is an essential regulator of programmed cell death (PCD). Overexpression of Bcl-2 is common in pancreatic cancer; the high levels have been shown to correlate with resistance to PCD. This resistance is mediated by binding of Bcl-2 via its BH-3 domain to diverse proteins, including the Bax/Bak family members, various protein kinases, and beclin 1, which are involved in regulation of autophagy (type II PCD). Small molecule inhibitors of BH-3-mediated binding of Bcl-2 have been recently developed, although no investigation has been conducted in pancreatic cancer, a malignancy characterized by extreme resistance to PCD. Methods The effect of the Bcl-2 binding inhibitor A-779024 on PCD was assessed by fluorescence activated cell sorting; the effect on Bcl-2 and other PCD-related proteins was analyzed by immunoblotting. Induction of autophagy was determined by fluorescence microscopy using a stably transfected GFP-LC3 construct to visualize autophagosome formation. Co-localization of Bcl-2 with binding partners regulating PCD was examined by immunoprecipitation and confocal immunofluorescent microscopy. Results A-779024 induced PCD in a dose- and time-dependent fashion. No change was seen in the protein levels of Bcl-2, Bax, Bcl-XL, or Mcl-1. Contrary to prediction, A-779024 was ineffective at inducing autophagy in these cells. Co-localization studies demonstrated that Bcl-2 was not bound to beclin 1 and, therefore, treatment with A-779024 could not induce release of beclin 1 and initiation of autophagy. Conclusions Disruption of Bcl-2 activity using the small molecule inhibitor A-779024 induces apoptotic but not autophagic PCD. This approach may be a novel therapy, either alone or in combination with other treatments such as chemotherapy or autophagy modulating agents in pancreatic cancer.
Evaluating and Improving Risk Formulas for Allocating Limited Budgets to Expensive Risk‐Reduction Opportunities

Simple risk formulas, such as risk = probability × impact, or risk = exposure × probability × consequence, or risk = threat × vulnerability × consequence, are built into many commercial risk management software products deployed in public and private organizations. These formulas, which we call risk indices, together with risk matrices, “heat maps,” and other displays based on them, are widely used in applications such as enterprise risk management (ERM), terrorism risk analysis, and occupational safety. But, how well do they serve to guide allocation of limited risk management resources? This article evaluates and compares different risk indices under simplifying conditions favorable to their use (statistically independent, uniformly distributed values of their components; and noninteracting risk-reduction opportunities). Compared to an optimal (nonindex) approach, simple indices produce inferior resource allocations that for a given cost may reduce risk by as little as 60% of what the optimal decisions would provide, at least in our simple simulations. This article suggests a better risk reduction per unit cost index that achieves 98–100% of the maximum possible risk reduction on these problems for all budget levels except the smallest, which allow very few risks to be addressed. Substantial gains in risk reduction achieved for resources spent can be obtained on our test problems by using this improved index instead of simpler ones that focus only on relative sizes of risk (or of components of risk) in informing risk management priorities and allocating limited risk management resources. This work suggests the need for risk management tools to explicitly consider costs in prioritization activities, particularly in situations where budget restrictions make careful allocation of resources essential for achieving close-to-maximum risk-reduction benefits.
Methemoglobinemia and eccentrocytosis in equine erythrocyte flavin adenine dinucleotide deficiency.

This report describes erythrocyte biochemical findings in an adult Spanish mustang mare that exhibited persistent methemoglobinemia, eccentrocytosis, and pyknocytosis that were not related to the con- sumption or administration of an exogenous oxidant. The methemoglobinemia was attributed to a deficiency in cytochrome-b5 reductase (Cb5R) activity, and the eccentrocytes and pyknocytes were attributed to a marked deficiency in reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-dependent glutathione reductase (GR) ac- tivity that resulted in decreased reduced glutathione concentration within erythrocytes. The GR activity increased to a near-normal value after addition of flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) to the enzyme assay, indicating a deficiency of FAD in erythrocytes. The methemoglobinemia, eccentrocytosis, and pyknocytosis were attributed to deficiency of FAD in erythrocytes because the GR and Cb 5R enzymes use FAD as a cofactor. This deficiency in FAD results from a defect in erythrocyte riboflavin metabolism, which has not been documented previously in animals.
Antiviral treatment of chronic hepatitis B virus infection: improvement in liver disease with interferon and adenine arabinoside.

Twelve of 32 patients lost HBeAg and DNA polymerase from their serum after completing antiviral therapy with interferon and/or adenine arabinoside. Three lost serum HBsAg as well. Loss of corresponding viral markers from hepatic tissue was also seen. There was improvement in symptoms, hepatic tests, and histologic findings in the 12 patients whose viral markers disappeared when compared to the 20 whose viral markers persisted despite treatment. These findings provide support for the use of antiviral agents in hepatitis B positive chronic liver disease.
Pathogenesis and immunology of experimental gonococcal infection: virulence of colony types of Neisseria gonorrhoeae for chicken embryos.

The virulence of gonococcal strains and colony types was evaluated in embryonated hen eggs of various ages inoculated by different routes. Striking differences in virulence of colony types were revealed by intravenous inoculation of 11-day embryos. T1 and T2 colony types were found to have high virulence for embryos, whereas T3 and T4 colony types were relatively avirulent. These observations are in accord with previous studies in volunteers. The differences in virulence were not related to differences in toxicity of killed gonococci, sonic lysates, or to the susceptibility of gonococci to cidal effects of chicken embryo blood. Rather, they appeared to involve differences in clearance of gonococci from the blood stream and subsequent multiplication of the virulent colony types. Infection with virulent colony types appears to be primarily bacteremic in this model. Preliminary experiments indicated that chicken embryos may be protected against the lethal infection by prior treatment of the inoculum with normal and immune rabbit serum. This protective effect was not associated with bactericidal activity. The chicken embryo model is potentially useful as a means of investigating attributes of virulence of gonococci and factors in immunity against gonorrhea. Images
Heritability Estimates of Certain Meat Characteristics in Eight-Week Old Chickens

Abstract One thousand 8-week old broilers, representing commercial male and female lines, were measured for eviscerated weight, cooking losses, Allo-Kramer shear values, color and total moisture content of breast and thigh meat. Estimates of heritability were obtained from variance components analyses based on a nested hierarchy. Eviscerated weight appeared to be lowly heritable in both lines. Extremely low estimates of heritability were obtained in both lines for the percentages of volatile and drip losses. Shear values of the raw breast, raw thigh and cooked thigh in the male line and, to a lesser extent, the shear value of the raw thigh in the female line yielded moderately high estimates of heritability. Total moisture content appeared to be lowly heritable in both lines. The inheritance of meat color, as measured by the Gardiner Color Difference Meter, varied considerably with the L value of the raw breast and raw thigh yielding estimates of 0.42. Environmental bias, due to commercial processing procedures and cooking method, must be reduced in order to obtain a more accurate appraisal of genetic contribution to meat quality in poultry.
Testing of a Noninvasive Probe for Measurement of Blood Perfusion

Parameter estimation techniques have been utilized in the development of a methodology to noninvasively measure blood perfusion using a new thermal surface probe. The core of this probe is comprised of a small, lightweight heat flux sensor that is placed in contact with tissue and provides time-resolved signals of heat flux and surface temperature while the probe is cooled by air jets. Parameter estimation techniques were developed that incorporate heat flux and temperature data with calculated data from a biothermal model of the tissue and probe. The technique simultaneously estimates blood perfusion and thermal contact resistance between the probe and tissue. Validation of this concept was carried out by experimentation with controlled flow through nonbiological porous media. Warm water was circulated through a fine pore sponge to provide a phantom model for blood perfusion through biological tissue. The parameter estimation technique was applied to measurements taken over a range of flow rates. Heat flux and temperature measurements and the resulting perfusion estimates correlated well with the experimentally imposed perfusion rate. This research helps establish the validity of using this method to develop a practical, noninvasive probe to clinically measure blood perfusion.
Simultaneous Quantification of Methadone, Cocaine, Opiates, and Metabolites in Human Placenta by Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry

A validated method for quantifying methadone, 2-ethylidene-1,5-dimethyl-3,3-diphenylpyrrolidine, cocaine, benzoylecgonine, 6-acetylmorphine, morphine, and codeine in human placenta by liquid chromatography-ion trap mass spectrometry is described. Specimens (1 g) were homogenized and subjected to solid-phase extraction. Chromatographic separation was performed on a Synergi Polar RP column with a gradient of 0.1% formic acid and acetonitrile. The method was linear from 10 to 2000 ng/g for methadone and 2.5 to 500 ng/g for other analytes. Limits of detection were 0.25-2.5 ng/g, imprecisions 46%, matrix effects -8.0-129.9%, and process efficiencies 24.2-201.0%. Method applicability was demonstrated by analysis of five placenta specimens from opioid-dependent women receiving methadone pharmacotherapy, with methadone doses ranging from 65 to 95 mg on the day of delivery. These are the first data on placenta concentrations of methadone and metabolites after controlled drug administration. Detection of other common drugs of abuse in placenta will also improve our knowledge of the usefulness of this matrix for detecting in utero drug exposure and studying disposition of drugs in the maternal-fetal dyad.
Cognitive Style as a Basis for MIS and DSS Designs: Much ADO About Nothing?

It is commonly believed that the user's cognitive style should be considered in the design of Management Information Systems and Decision Support Systems. In contrast, an examination of the literature and a consideration of some of the broader issues involved in MIS and DSS design lead to the conclusions that: 1 the currently available literature on cognitive style is an unsatisfactory basis for deriving operational design guidelines, and 2 further cognitive style research is unlikely to provide a satisfactory body of knowledge from which to derive such guidelines. The article presents six specific bases for these two conclusions. From a manager's pespective, the outcome of the study is a suggestion: maintain a healthy skepticism if it is suggested that paper and pencil assessments of the user's cognitive style should be used as a basis for MIS or DSS designs. From a researcher's viewpoint, the study raises two questions: 1 If our research interest is MIS and DSS design, does it seem that further research in cognitive style is a wise allocation of our research resources? 2 If our research interest is cognitive style, does it seem that the use of cognitive style as a basis for MIS and DSS designs will become an important application area?
Hiding the Higgs Boson with Multiple Scalars

We consider models with multiple Higgs scalar gauge singlets and the resulting restrictions on the parameters from precision electroweak measurements. In these models, the scalar singlets mix with the SU(2){sub L} Higgs doublet, potentially leading to reduced couplings of the scalars to fermions and gauge bosons relative to the standard model Higgs boson couplings. Such models can make the Higgs sector difficult to explore at the LHC. We emphasize the new physics resulting from the addition of at least two scalar Higgs singlets.
Speciation of organotins in polyvinyl chloride pipe via X-ray absorption spectroscopy and in leachates using GC-PFPD after derivatisation.

Three different polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe types were subjected to de-ionized water exposures over the course of at least 180 days. Water exposed to the pipe was analyzed for organotin speciation and concentration. Organotin concentrations were the highest during the first 1–5 days. The species and concentrations of organotins leached varied by pipe type. Data were normalized by surface area in order to compare laboratory results with results from a residential pipe system. For one pipe type, the lowest non-zero concentrations from the laboratory tests overestimated organotin concentrations in solution when compared with water samples from the same pipe type in a residence. For organotin exposure estimates, a range of 0.1 ng m−2 to 10 ng m−2 could be used for mature pipes (e.g. in use for 1 year). These estimates should be refined with more field study, however, due to the high variation in organotin species and concentrations leached as a function of pipe type, accuracy within an order of magnitude may be optimal as, in many instances, the type of pipe installed or buried may be unknown. X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) was used to identify organic and inorganic tin species in reference materials and the PVC samples. Monobutyl tin was identified as the primary organotin species in the pipes. Results from the XAS analyses also indicate that the technique shows promise for distinguishing between inorganic tin and organotins. Furthermore, organotins may be distinguished between mono-, di-, and tri-ligand species using XAS.
The impact of the International Coffee Agreement on producing countries.

The main objective of this article is to analyze the impact of the International Coffee Agreement's export system on the world coffee market, focusing on increases in real export revenues (transfer benefits) and reductions in income variability (risk benefits) in each exporting country. Over the recent period of operation of the International Coffee Agreement's export quota system, the authors find that the quota system had a stabilizing effect on world coffee prices. The quotas reduced real export revenues for most small exporting countries, but large producers gained. Most small countries gained, however, in terms of risk reduction. If a brief suspension of the quota occurs from time to time, caused, for example, by adverse weather which results in a shortfall in world supply, the quota system works like a buffer stock scheme; on average, producing countries as a whole lose transfer benefits but gain risk benefits.
Nonparametric Multivariate Kurtosis and Tailweight Measures

For nonparametric exploration or description of a distribution, the treatment of location, spread, symmetry, and skewness is followed by characterization of kurtosis. Classical moment-based kurtosis measures the dispersion of a distribution about its ‘shoulders’. Here, we consider quantile-based kurtosis measures. These are robust, defined more widely, and discriminate better among shapes. A univariate quantile-based kurtosis measure of [Groeneveld, R.A. and Meeden, G., 1984, Measuring skewness and kurtosis. The Statistician, 33, 391–399.] is extended to the multivariate case by representing it as a transform of a dispersion functional. A family of such kurtosis measures defined for a given distribution and taken together comprises a real-valued ‘kurtosis functional’, which has intuitive appeal as a convenient two-dimensional curve for description of the kurtosis of the distribution. Several multivariate distributions in any dimension may thus be compared with respect to their kurtosis in a single two-dim...