cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Seafloor habitat mapping of the New York Bight incorporating sidescan sonar data

The efficacy of using sidescan sonar imagery, image classification algorithms and geographic information system (GIS) techniques to characterize the seafloor bottom of the New York Bight were assessed. The resulting seafloor bottom type map was compared with fish trawl survey data to determine whether there were any discernable habitat associations. An unsupervised classification with 20 spectral classes was produced using the sidescan sonar imagery, bathymetry and secondarily derived spatial heterogeneity to characterize homogenous regions within the study area. The spectral classes, geologic interpretations of the study region, bathymetry and a bottom landform index were used to produce a seafloor bottom type map of 9 different bottom types. Examination of sediment sample data by bottom type indicated that each bottom type class had a distinct composition of sediments. Analysis of adult summer flounder, Paralichthys dentatus, and adult silver hake, Merluccius bilinearis, presence/absence data from trawl surveys did not show evidence of strong associations between the species distributions and seafloor bottom type. However, the absence of strong habitat associations may be more attributable to the coarse scale and geographic uncertainty of the trawl sampling data than conclusive evidence that no habitat associations exist for these two species.
First Report of Leaf Spot of Sesame Caused by Xanthomonas sp. In the United States

In July 2010 in Texas, extensive leaf spots (10 to 30% leaf area affected) occurred on a commercial planting of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) in Hidalgo County and to a lesser extent (1 to 5% leaf area) on leaves of several varieties in experimental trials in Colorado and Victoria Counties. The leaf spots were light to dark brown, somewhat circular, and 1 to 3 mm in diameter. A symptomatic leaf from each of three to five plants per county was sampled for isolations. Leaves were sprayed with 70% ethanol and immediately blotted dry with a paper towel. The margins of spots (2 mm2) were excised with a scalpel and placed in a drop of sterile water for 5 min. Drops were streaked on nutrient agar (NA) and incubated at 30°C. The 12 isolations consistently yielded gram-negative, rod-shaped bacteria with yellow, translucent colonies that were visible after 2 days of incubation. The DNA of 11 isolates was extracted with the Norgen (Thorold, ON) Bacterial genomic DNA isolation kit (Cat. #17900) and the ITS region was a...
Albumin Excretion by the Kidney: The Effects of Furosemide Diuresis

SummaryUalhV in the female Sprague-Dawley rat was measured during a stable period of normal hydration and following furosemide-induced diuresis with the simultaneous replacement of diuretic fluid losses. Furosemide administration resulted in a significant increase in V and FENa, but GFR, UalbV, and the sieving coefficient for albumin remained stable. The results suggest that, under physiological conditions, changes in albumin excretion are dependent upon changes in glomerular filtration rather than urine flow.
The allocation of property rights to land: US land policy and farm failure in the northern great plains

Abstract Federal land policy led to the establishment of farms that were too small to be viable over the long term in the northern Great Plains. Under the Homestead Act, hundreds of thousands of 160 to 320-acre farms were founded. Settlement took place during a period of unusual rainfall, but when drought returned between 1917 and 1921, such farms failed in waves of “homestead busts.” Early efforts to revise the land laws to allow for larger allocations were resisted. We examine the political economy of the Homestead Act to show why politicians opposed major policy changes. Using primary data sources, we then provide the first statistical analyses of the characteristics of farms that survived or failed during drought. We conclude with a description of the gradual process of farm-size consolidation after 1921 that led to units more reflective of the semi-arid region’s requirements.
Einige Probleme der Polymerisationskinetik

Das Studium des Verhaltens von freien Radikalen hat wesentlich zum Verstandnis des Polymerisationgeschehens beigetragen. Radikale vermogen je nach Art und Reaktionsbedingungen eine Polymerisation zu starten oder auch zu inhibieren. Ferner wird anhand der Beispiele jod und Sauerstoff die Wirkungsweise „komplexer inhibitoren” behandelt.
JC virus DNA sequences are frequently present in the human upper and lower gastrointestinal tract.

Background & Aims: JC virus (JCV), a human polyomavirus, has been found in a limited number of normal human tissues and cancers. The oncogenic potential of this virus is mediated by a transforming protein, the T antigen (TAg). We have previously demonstrated the presence of JCV-TAg in colorectal cancers, in adjacent normal colonic mucosa from these patients, and in the human colon cancer cell line SW480. The mode of transmission of this virus is unclear, and we hypothesized that the gastrointestinal (GI) tract may be a reservoir for the virus. Methods: DNA was extracted from 129 normal GI tissue samples collected from 33 patients. Topoisomerase I–assisted polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect the virus using exact and degenerate primers. Nested PCR and Southern blot analysis confirmed the identity of the PCR products. Single-stranded conformation polymorphism (SSCP) analysis and sequencing were used to evaluate the presence of viral quasispecies. Results: JCV sequences were found in 75.8% of patients (70.6% of upper GI and 81.2% of colonic samples); no significant differences in rates of infection were found by site. The use of degenerate primers combined with topoisomerase I treatment led to viral detection in 58.9% of samples, compared with 27.9% of samples using exact primers and topoisomerase I (P < 0.01). SSCP and sequencing analysis confirmed the amplification of viral quasispecies and the authenticity of TAg sequences. Conclusions: The results show that JCV DNA sequences are highly prevalent in the human upper and lower gastrointestinal tract of immunocompetent individuals. GASTROENTEROLOGY 2000;119:1228-1235
Serving the hearing-impaired. An update on the use of sign-language interpreters for dental patients and their families.

tor,” I was bemused by Dr. Meskin’s editorial, “Hidden Treasure” (May JADA). I congratulate him on bringing this topic to the attention of the profession. I was, however, astonished that no mention was made of the Web site or postal address of The Dr. Samuel D. Harris National Museum of Dentistry, omissions that will surely affect the plea for funding! Are you aware that there is a Canadian National Dental Museum at the University of Ottawa, and that the Harris Museum is listed in “A Directory of the History of Medicine Collections,” compiled by the National Library of Medicine?
A House Divided? Christian Music in Black and White

This study examines racial discourse evident in gospel music, a predominantly African American genre and contemporary Christian music (CCM), a predominantly White American genre. Analyzing 45 songs on the Billboard year-end charts for 2007 and 2008, the study reveals differences in messages predicated on sociocultural influences. Whereas gospel songs, possessing roots in blues, emphasize opposition and overcoming, CCM songs, establishing its root in the aftermath of the Hippie movement, emphasizes devotion and inspiration. This comparative study lays a foundation for future thematic analysis of Christian music and holds implications for the intersection between social and spiritual identity, the influence of industry practices on cultural production and offers a contributing explanation for issues of race relations even among Christians.
Removing Reprogramming Roadblocks: Mbd3 Depletion Allows Deterministic iPSC Generation

Transcription factor-induced pluripotency is extremely inefficient and assumed to be stochastic. In a recent Nature publication, Rais et al. show that depletion of the methyl-binding protein 3 yields reprogramming efficiencies of up to 100% within days, suggesting that elimination of a single gene suffices to render reprogramming a deterministic process.
Clinical development of anti-RANKL therapy

The receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL), its cognate receptor RANK, and its natural decoy receptor osteoprotegerin have been identified as the final effector molecules of osteoclastic bone resorption. This has provided an ideal target for therapeutic interventions in metabolic bone disease. As described in previous reviews in this supplement, RANKL signaling is required for osteoclast differentiation, activation, and survival. Furthermore, in vivo inhibition of RANKL leads to immediate osteoclast apoptosis, and there are no in vivo models of bone resorption that are refractory to RANKL inhibition. Thus, the only step remaining in the development of a clinical intervention is the generation of a safe, effective, and specific drug that can inhibit RANKL in humans. Here we review the clinical development of denosumab (formerly known as AMG 162), which is a fully human mAb directed against RANKL. This discussion includes the breadth of 21 human studies that have led to the current phase 3 clinical trials seeking approval for use of this agent to treat postmenopausal women with low bone mineral density (osteoporosis) and patients with metastatic lytic bone lesions (multiple myeloma, and prostate and breast cancer).
Mass-transfer effects with the high-temperature sulphide-ion—sulphur electrode☆

Abstract Cyclic voltammetric studies were made of both graphite disk and platinum spherical micro-electrodes in liquid mixtures of sodium sulphide and sulphur at 350°C. In the concentration region where there is an immiscibility gap, electrode behaviour in the sulphide-poor phase is subject to depletion of sulphide ion during anodization with resulting current oscillations. In the sulphide-rich phase there is an irreversible oxidation process with a current maximum, and the linear nature of the plot of i max vs square root of sweep rate and the linear dependence on sulphide ion concentration suggest a diffusion-controlled process. Also suggesting diffusion control is the dependence of current on real electrode area (a comparison using rough graphite electrodes and smooth platinum ones). Two rises in current are observed when negative potentials are applied. The first is due to the formation of a polysulphide species and the second represents the formation of sulphide ion at a higher activity. The second current surge does not begin to level off even at 5 A/cm 2 at −3 V vs a sulphide-ion-sulphur reference electrode.
Optimal management of facial telangiectasia.

Telangiectasia can be treated with many different modalities. Electrosurgery is effective but dependent on technique. Sclerotherapy can be used on larger blue telangiectasia but may be complicated from inadvertent injection into arterioles. Surgical phlebectomy can be used on reticular veins but is technically difficult. Many different laser wavelengths can be successfully used to minimize and/or eliminate vascular lesions on the face. Each type of laser has advantages unique to its profile of wavelength, pulse duration, spot size and cutaneous cooling. The benefits of using 532–595nm lasers are the multiple applications of these lasers on treating not only telangiectasia, but also pigmentation and even fine wrinkles. Newer methods of cutaneous cooling and lengthening of pulse duration make these lasers less painful with fewer adverse effects (purpura) than previous lasers. The benefit in using a 1064nm laser is that its longer wavelength can penetrate more deeply, allowing effective thermosclerosis of vessels up to 3–4mm in diameter. In addition, the 1064nm wavelength permits treatment of patients of skin types I–VI with or without a tan, since melanin absorption is minimal.
2-Aminopurine selectively inhibits the induction of beta-interferon, c-fos, and c-myc gene expression

The protein kinase inhibitor 2-aminopurine (2AP) blocks the induction of the human beta-interferon gene by virus or poly(I)-poly(C) at the level of transcription. This inhibition is specific, since 2AP does not inhibit induction of either the hsp70 heat-shock gene by high temperature or the metallothionein gene by cadmium or dexamethasone. However, 2AP does block the induction of the c-fos and c-myc proto-oncogenes by serum growth factors or virus, suggesting that a protein kinase may be involved in the regulation of these genes, as well as of the beta-interferon gene. However, different factors must be required for the induction of these three genes, since they are not coordinately regulated by the same inducers in most of the cell lines examined.
Macitentan for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension

Macitentan is the most recently approved dual endothelin-receptor antagonist (ERA) for the treatment of symptomatic pulmonary arterial hypertension. Compared to other available ERAs, it demonstrates superior receptor-binding properties, with consequently improved tissue penetration, and a longer duration of action allowing for once-daily dosing. It has a favorable adverse-effect profile, with notably no demonstrable increase in the risk of hepatotoxicity or peripheral edema, but like other ERAs, it is potentially limited by significant anemia. Phase I data have demonstrated a favorable drug-drug interaction profile and no need for dose adjustment with hepatic and renal impairment. In the pivotal SERAPHIN study, treatment of symptomatic pulmonary arterial hypertension patients with macitentan led to statistically significant improvements in functional class, exercise tolerance, and hemodynamic parameters, in addition to a reduction in morbidity in an event-driven long-term trial.
Cutoff Frequency of Submillimeter Schottky-Barrier Diodes

The traditional HF model of a bulk-type (nonepitaxial) Schottky-barrier diode is extended to include the influence of skin effect, carrier inertia, and displacement current. The parasitic cutoff frequency of the extended model is calculated for n-GaAs and n-Si and compared with that predicted by the traditional model. Below the plasma frequency, the two models are found to give similar results for n-Si. For n-GaAs, however, the extended model predicts a value of cutoff frequency only one-sixth that predicted by the traditional model. With both materials, operation near the plasma frequency is impractical since it would require unrealistically small contact dimensions. Above the plasma frequency, however, both materials display a broad frequency range where operation should again be feasible. For n-Si, the extended model predicts that operation above the plasma frequency can actually be achieved with Iarger contacts than is predicted on the basis of the traditional model.
Altered functional response to risky choice in HIV infection.

Author(s): Connolly, Colm G; Bischoff-Grethe, Amanda; Jordan, Stephan J; Woods, Steven Paul; Ellis, Ronald J; Paulus, Martin P; Grant, Igor; Translational Methamphetamine AIDS Research Center (TMARC) Group | Abstract: BackgroundRisky decision-making is commonly observed in persons at risk for and infected with HIV and is associated with executive dysfunction. Yet it is currently unknown whether HIV alters brain processing of risk-taking decision-making.MethodsThis study examined the neural substrate of a risky decision-making task in 21 HIV seropositive (HIV+) and 19 seronegative (HIV-) comparison participants. Functional magnetic resonance imaging was conducted while participants performed the risky-gains task, which involves choosing among safe (20 cents) and risky (40/80 cent win or loss) choices. Linear mixed effects analyses examining group and decision type were conducted. Robust regressions were performed to examine the relationship between nadir CD4 count and Kalichman sexual compulsivity and brain activation in the HIV+ group. The overlap between the task effects and robust regressions was explored.ResultsAlthough there were no serostatus effects in behavioral performance on the risky-gains task, HIV+ individuals exhibited greater activation for risky choices in the basal ganglia, i.e. the caudate nucleus, but also in the anterior cingulate, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, and insula relative to the HIV- group. The HIV+ group also demonstrated reduced functional responses to safe choices in the anterior cingulate and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex relative to the HIV- group. HIV+ individuals with higher nadir CD4 count and greater sexual compulsivity displayed lower differential responses to safe versus risky choices in many of these regions.ConclusionsThis study demonstrated fronto-striatal loop dysfunction associated with HIV infection during risky decision-making. Combined with similar between-group task behavior, this suggests an adaptive functional response in regions critical to reward and behavioral control in the HIV+ group. HIV-infected individuals with higher CD4 nadirs demonstrated activation patterns more similar to seronegative individuals. This suggests that the severity of past immunosuppression (CD4 nadir) may exert a legacy effect on processing of risky choices in the HIV-infected brain.
The motion of aromatic molecules in bile acid micelles

Abstract Deuterium spin-lattice relaxation time ( T 1 ) of perdeuterobenzene and perdeuteronaphthalene dissolved in aqueous solutions of sodium deoxycholate and sodium cholate was studied. By comparing the experimental data and theoretical calculations, it was concluded that benzene and naphthalene are not held stationary in the bile acid micelles, and their molecular planes have certain librational motion. In addition, benzene undergoes rapid rotation about the C 6 axis, but naphthalene does not rotate in its molecular plane.
Caspases, IAPs and Smac/DIABLO: mechanisms from structural biology

Caspases are the central component of the apoptotic machinery that irreversibly commits a cell to die. Whereas all caspases are structurally similar, those involved in apoptosis can be categorized functionally as either initiator or effector caspases, which are activated by distinct mechanisms. The activated caspases are subject to inhibition by the inhibitor of apoptosis family of proteins. This inhibition can be removed by Smac/DIABLO during apoptosis. The underlying molecular mechanisms of caspase regulation are discussed in this article.
Learning with mixtures of trees

This paper describes the mixtures-of-trees model, a probabilistic model for discrete multidimensional domains. Mixtures-of-trees generalize the probabilistic trees of Chow and Liu (1968) in a different and complementary direction to that of Bayesian networks. We present efficient algorithms for learning mixtures-of-trees models in maximum likelihood and Bayesian frameworks. We also discuss additional efficiencies that can be obtained when data are "sparse," and we present data structures and algorithms that exploit such sparseness. Experimental results demonstrate the performance of the model for both density estimation and classification. We also discuss the sense in which tree-based classifiers perform an implicit form of feature selection, and demonstrate a resulting insensitivity to irrelevant attributes.
Content Distribution in VANETs Using Network Coding: The Effect of Disk I/O and Processing O/H

Besides safe navigation (e.g., warning of approaching vehicles), car to car communications will enable a host of new applications, ranging from offlce-on-the-wheel support to entertainment. One of the most promising applications is content distribution among drivers such as multi-media files and software updates. Content distribution in vehicular networks is a challenge due to network dynamics and high mobility, yet network coding was shown to efficiently handle such dynamics and to considerably enhance performance. This paper provides an in-depth analysis of implementation issues of network coding in vehicular networks. To this end, we consider general resource constraints (e.g., CPU, disk, memory) besides bandwidth, that are likely to impact the encoding and storage management operations required by network coding. We develop an abstract model of the network coding procedures and implement it in the wireless network simulator to evaluate the impact of limited resources. We then propose schemes that considerably improve the use of such resources. Our model and extensive simulation results show that network coding parameters must be carefully configured by taking resource constraints into account.
Nursing home residents with multiple sclerosis: comparisons of African American residents to white residents at admission

This research profiles African American residents with multiple sclerosis (MS) at admission to the nursing facility and compares them to profiles of white residents with MS using the Minimum Data Set (MDS). We analysed MDS admission assessments for 1367 African Americans with MS and 9294 whites with MS. African American residents with MS were significantly younger at admission than white residents with MS, with almost one half of these African Americans 50 years or younger compared to only one quarter of these whites. African American residents with MS were significantly more physically disabled and cognitively impaired at admission than white residents with MS. Although there were significant racial differences in disability, there were no significant racial differences among these MS residents in the use of various therapies provided by qualified therapists. These observed racial differences among MS residents in disease manifestations, severity, progression and disability are due to multiple variables and point out the need for more research. By combining discoveries from genetics, immunology, epidemiology and virology we can gain a better understanding of the complex pathophysiology of MS and develop more effective treatments and preventive measures. Our findings also indicate potential racial disparities in the use of MS-related care, illustrating that a greater outreach effort may be needed to evaluate and treat African Americans with MS.
Adaptation to cycloheximide of macromolecular synthesis in Tetrahymena

Cycloheximide (CHI) at 10 ng/ml partially inhibited protein synthesis in exponential cultures of Tetrahymena Sp. At 20 ng/ml or greater, inhibition was complete. When protein synthesis was inhibited to any extent, cell division ceased immediately. In all instances where measured, synthesis of RNA and DNA also ceased. After a period of delay, cellular functions reinitiated in the order: (i) protein synthesis, (ii) DNA synthesis and, (iii) RNA synthesis and cell division. The delay in cell division was divided into three phases of: I, zero; II, low; and, III; fully recovered rates of exponential protein synthesis. The length of the three phases increased with increasing concentration of CHI. Prior growth of cells for one generation in the presence of 7.5 ng/ml CHI (facilitation) eliminated phase I and slightly decreased phases II and III following subsequent challenge with an inhibitory concentration of CHI. Facilitation for six generations further decreased phases II and III. Protein synthesis and cell division were not inhibited during facilitation. In the culture, succinate dehydrogenase activity did not increase during the delay but increased normally at the onset of division. In contrast, NADPH-cytochrome c reductase activity continued to increase for an hour after inhibition of protein synthesis, was constant for a period and did not increase again until an hour after reinitiation of cell division and RNA synthesis. Inhibition of division of all cells was immediate and reinitiation of synthesis and cell division was non-synchronous.
Drinking on television; a preliminary study with emphasis on method.

A procedure designed to assess the frequency of alcohol-related events in television shows and commercials is described.
Formal Specification and Verification of Java Refactorings

There is an extensive literature about refactorings of object-oriented programs, and many refactoring tools for the Java programming language. However, except for a few studies, in practice it is difficult to find precise formal specifications of the preconditions and mechanisms of automated refactorings. Moreover, there is usually no formal proof that a refactoring is correct, i.e., that it preserves the behavior of the program. We present an equational semantics based approach to Java refactoring. Specifically, we use an executable Java formal semantics in the Maude language to: (i) formally specify three useful Java refactorings; and (ii) give detailed proofs of correctness for two of those refactorings, showing that they are behavior-preserving transformations. Besides the obvious benefits of providing rigorous specifications for refactoring tool builders and rigorous correctness guarantees, our approach has the additional advantage of its executability: our formal refactoring specifications can be used directly to refactor Java programs and yield a provably correct Java refactoring tool.
Multivariate nonlinear mixed model to analyze longitudinal image data: MRI study of early brain development

With great potential in studying neuro-development, neuro-degeneration, and the aging process, longitudinal image data is gaining increasing interest and attention in the neuroimaging community. In this paper, we present a parametric nonlinear model to statistically study multivariate longitudinal data with asymptotic properties. We demonstrate our preliminary results in a combined study of two longitudinal neuroimaging data sets of early brain development to cover a wider time span and to gain a larger sample size. Such combined analysis of multiple longitudinal image data sets has not been conducted before and presents a challenge for traditional analysis methods. To our knowledge, this is the first multivariate nonlinear longitudinal analysis to study early brain development. Our methodology is generic in nature and can be applied to any longitudinal data with nonlinear growth patterns that can not easily be modeled by linear methods.
Overview of Mechanical Ventilatory Support and Management of Patient- and Ventilator-Related Responses

Nurses must be knowledgeable about the function and limitations of ventilator modes, causes of respiratory distress and dyssynchrony with the ventilator, and appropriate management in order to provide high-quality patient-centered care. Prompt recognition of problems and action by the nurse may resolve acute respiratory distress, dyspnea, and increased work of breathing and prevent adverse events. This article presents an overview of mechanical ventilation modes and the assessment and management of dyspnea and patient-ventilator dyssynchrony. Strategies to manage patients' responses to mechanical ventilatory support and recommendations for staff education also are presented.
Functional expression of a high affinity mammalian hepatic choline/organic cation transporter

Uptake by the liver of the organic cation and es- sential nutrient choline is required for the hepatic synthesis of phosphatidylcholine. Uptake of other organic cations is also important for the metabolism and secretion of numer- ous endobiotics and drugs. Although a high affinity mam- malian hepatic choline transporter has been kinetically de- fined, it has not been previously identified. We have developed stable transfectants of BALB/3T3 cells, using a murine member of the organic cation transporter gene family ( mOct1/Slc22a1 ), and used these cells to characterize the transport of the organic cation choline and model organic cation tetraethylammonium (TEA). Functional expression of mOct1/Slc22a1 in BALB/3T3 cells confers the saturable, temperature-dependent uptake of choline with a K m of 42 m M , and uptake of TEA with a K m of 43 m M. We subse- quently used our cell culture uptake system to kinetically define in HepG2 cells a high affinity choline uptake pro- cess, which transports choline with a K m similar to that of mOct1 / Slc22a1 protein. We also demonstrated that organic cation transport by mOct1 / Slc22a1 is inhibited by several or- ganic cations, and that the gene is expressed in the perinatal period, at a time when phosphatidylcholine synthesis in- creases. We conclude that mOct1/Slc22a1 encodes a high affinity mammalian hepatic choline/organic cation trans- porter. This transporter may be important for hepatic phos- phatidylcholine synthesis, and for the metabolism and secre- tion of many organic cationic drugs. — Sinclair, C. J., K. D. Chi, V. Subramanian, K. L. Ward, and R. M. Green. Func- tional expression of a high affinity mammalian hepatic cho- line/organic cation transporter . J. Lipid Res. 2000. 41: 1841- 1848.
Layered Identities and Being Gabby: A Five-Year Longitudinal Case Study.

Compton-Lilly examines the identity construction of one student, Gabby, over a five year period to explore layers of gender and race that affect identity construction. In particular, she asks how does being female and Latino contribute to the ways Gabby and her family make sense of Gabby. Compton-Lilly draws on a rich data set (e.g., observations, interviews, artwork, photographs, writing) to explore the various ways Gabby enacts her identities in the contexts of home and school. Through this analysis, the roots of intersectionality become visible. In short, we begin to understand how identities are enacted within contested spaces where the figured worlds people bring - entailing the ways of being, acting, and interacting that are available to self and others - align and clash both presenting and restricting possibilities.
Intentional and Accidental Behavior: A Control Theory Analysis:

A procedure based on control theory was used to determine which of two simultaneous activities was the one performed intentionally by a subject. The procedure provides an objective means of discrim...
Mesh Reflector Antennas with Complex Weaves: PO/Periodic MoM and Equivalent Strip Width Verification

This paper numerically analyzes reflector antennas with complex mesh weave patterns by using extended physical optics (PO) combined with the periodic method of moments (MoM). Periodic MoM calculates the transmission coefficient matrix (T-matrix) of the realistic, complex weave pattern of the planar mesh, in order to calculate the modified PO current on the mesh reflector. The analysis of the mesh reflectors with two different complex weave patterns (single Satin and single Atlas at Ka band) is performed to exemplify the application of the extended PO/periodic MoM algorithm. The paper also verifies the equivalent strip width for a cylindrical wire for mesh reflector antennas with experimental and numerical analysis.
MicroRNA-18a Improves Human Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformation Endothelial Cell Function

Background and Purpose—Cerebral arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is a vascular disease that disrupts normal blood flow and leads to serious neurological impairment or death. Aberrant functions of AVM-derived brain endothelial cells (AVM-BECs) are a disease hallmark. Our aim was to use microRNA-18a (miR-18a) as a therapeutic agent to improve AVM-BEC function. Methods—Human AVM-BECs were tested for growth factor production and proliferation under different shear flow conditions and evaluated for tubule formation. Thrombospondin-1, inhibitor of DNA-binding protein 1, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) isotype mRNA levels were quantified by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Thrombospondin-1, VEGF-A, and VEGF-D protein expression was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Proliferation and tubule formation were evaluated using bromodeoxyuridine incorporation and growth factor–reduced Matrigel assays, respectively. Results—miR-18a increased thrombospondin-1 production but d...
Tectonostratigraphic Terranes of the Circum-Pacific Region

Have you always wondered where the Tujunga, Baldy, and Cortez terranes might be located today, let alone during the Cretaceous or early Tertiary? This book may provide the answer, because in a little less than 600 pages for $32, which includes a marvelously produced color map of the entire Circum-Pacific region, one can read almost everything one wants to know about Earth's “ring of fire” and its displaced or suspect terranes. The printing, proofreading, illustrations, and references are all of the highest caliber, and the book is handsomely produced indeed. In page-by-page reading, I found maybe five typographical errors, but I will spare you the details. The contents of the book are divided into five parts, comprising principles or applications of terrane analysis and four unequally long parts on the four quadrants of the Pacific coasts. The northeast quadrant includes Alaska, the Canadian Cordillera, the U.S. coastal and Rocky Mountain belts, and Mexico; the northwest includes Kamchatka, northeast Asia, China, Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines; the southwest section has articles on Australia, Malaya, Indonesia, New Zealand, and Antarctica; and the southeast comprises the Andes from Colombia to southern Chile. The book offers introductory text for beginning students of terrane analysis, as well as plenty of useful details and data for the expert who needs a handy reference volume. Subject matter or emphasis ranges from hydrocarbon generation in marginal basins, biogeography, paleomagnetism, geochronology, and structural and metamorphic aspects to stratigraphy and shows how the entire discipline of geological sciences is contributing to terrane analysis. There is literally something here for everyone in solid Earth science.
Comparison of illumination analyses using one-way and full-wave propagators

Summary In this paper, we compare one-way wave propagator and full-wave propagator such as finite difference (FD) method i n the evaluation of illumination and acquisition dip response (ADR) maps. For the case of 2D SEG/EAGE salt model, the illumination and ADR maps by the one-way method and the FD method have similar general distributions in space and angle domain. However, some difference exists in absolut e values, especially for the subsalt area. This is due to the strong effects of transmission loss caused by salt boundary scat tering, reflection and defocusing. The difference in wide-angle amplitude behavior is also noticeable. Therefore, in most cases illumination analysis calculated by one-way wave propagators can provide reliable evaluation.
Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer–Based Sensor Camui Provides New Insight Into Mechanisms of Calcium/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase II Activation in Intact Cardiomyocytes

Rationale:Calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) is a key mediator of intracellular signaling in the heart. However, the tools currently available for assessing dynamic changes in CaMKII localization and activation in living myocytes are limited. Objective:We use Camui, a novel FRET-based biosensor in which full-length CaMKII is flanked by CFP and YFP, to measure CaMKII activation state in living rabbit myocytes. Methods and Results:We show that Camui and mutant variants that lack the sites of CaMKII autophosphorylation (T286A) and oxidative regulation (CM280/1VV) serve as useful biosensors for CaMKIIδ activation state. Camui (wild-type or mutant) was expressed in isolated adult cardiac myocytes, and localization and CaMKII activation state were determined using confocal microscopy. Camui, like CaMKIIδ, is concentrated at the z-lines, with low baseline activation state. Camui activation increased directly with pacing frequency, but the maximal effect was blunted with the T286A, consistent...
Potential trade-off between vocal ornamentation and spatial ability in a songbird

Bird song is hypothesized to be a reliable indicator of cognition because it depends on brain structure and function. Song features have been found to correlate positively with measures of cognition, but the relationship between song and cognition is complicated because not all cognitive abilities are themselves positively correlated. If cognition is not a unitary trait, developmental constraints on brain growth could generate trade-offs between some aspects of cognition and song. To further clarify the relationship between song and cognition in song sparrows (Melospiza melodia), we examined repertoire size and performance on a spatial task. We found an inverse relationship between repertoire size and speed of spatial learning and suggest that a developmental trade-off between the hippocampus and song control nuclei could be responsible for this relationship. By attending to male song, females may learn about a suite of cognitive abilities; this study suggests that females may glean information about a male's cognitive weaknesses as well as his strengths.
Timing of restorative proctectomy following subtotal colectomy in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

Background There is no general consensus regarding the timing of restorative proctocolectomy (RPC) in patients who have undergone subtotal colectomy with end ileostomy (STC). The aim of this study was to determine the impact of timing of RPC in patients who have undergone subtotal colectomy and end ileostomy for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Methods A retrospective medical record review of patients who had undergone RPC after STC was undertaken. Patients were divided into 3 groups according to timing of the completion proctectomy: ≤ 3 months, 4–7 months and > 7 months. Results From 1990 to 2000, 91 patients had undergone RPC after STC for IBD. There were no statistically significant differences among the three groups relative to mean age, gender, final diagnosis, duration of disease, body mass index, comorbidity, extraintestinal manifestations, use of immunuosuppressives, or operative time. The number of intra-operative complications were significantly higher in the ≤ 3 month group compared to the other groups. There was no significant difference in the overall incidence of postoperative complications among the 3 groups. Postoperative fistulas were significantly more common after RPC in Groups 1 and 2 as compared to Group 3. Conclusion Restorative proctocolectomy performed within 3 months after the initial subtotal colectomy was associated with a significant increase in the incidence of intra-operative complications. Although this increase was not statistically significant, there was a significantly higher incidence of fistula formation when RPC was undertaken at up to 7 months after the subtotal colectomy for IBD. Thus, if possible, early RPC after subtotal colectomy should be discouraged.
Precipitation and Temperature Effects on Populations of Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae): Implications for Range Expansion

We investigated how temperature and precipitation regime encountered over the life cycle of Aedes albopictus (Skuse) affects populations. Caged populations of A. albopictus were maintained at 22, 26, and 30°C. Cages were equipped with containers that served as sites for oviposition and larval development. All cages were assigned to one of three simulated precipitation regimes: (1) low fluctuation regime - water within the containers was allowed to evaporate to 90% of its maximum before being refilled, (2) high fluctuation regime - water was allowed to evaporate to 25% of its maximum before being refilled, and (3) drying regime - water was allowed to evaporate to complete container dryness before being refilled. Greater temperature and the absence of drying resulted in greater production of adults. Greater temperature in combination with drying were detrimental to adult production. These precipitation effects on adult production were absent at 22°C. Greater temperatures and drying treatments yielded higher and lower eclosion rates, respectively and, both yielded greater mortality. Development time and size of adults decreased with increased temperatures, and drying produced larger adults. Greater temperatures resulted in greater egg mortality. These results suggest that populations occurring in warmer regions are likely to produce more adults as long as containers do not dry completely. Populations in cooler regions are likely to produce fewer adults with the variability of precipitation contributing less to variation in adult production. Predicted climate change in North America is likely to extend the northern distribution of A. albopictus and to limit further its establishment in arid regions.
The Origin, Evolution, Nature, and Causes of Aging

Aging is here defined as inherent, progressive, irreversible impairments of function. It occurs not only in higher organisms but also as far down the scale of beings as some — but not all — unicellular organisms. What does the whole array of organisms tell us about aging? Is there a good identifiable reason for its existence? Are there any general bases or causes of aging? In searching for answers to these questions, I shall be guided by evolutionary considerations.
Estimation of Oil Production Rates in Reservoirs Exposed to Focused Vibrational Energy

This work was partially supported by an Academic Excellence Alliance grant between King Abdullah University of Science andTechnology (KAUST) and the University of Texas at Austin and by the Society of Petroleum Engineers STAR Fellowship and theWilliam S. Livingston Fellowship at the University of Texas at Austin awarded to the first author. The travel of the first author to the19th SPE Improved Oil Recovery Symposium is supported by the Society of Petroleum Engineers Faculty Enhancement Travel Grant.This support is gratefully acknowledged.
Intravenous cocaine self-administration in rats is reduced by dietaryl-tryptophan

Rats were trained to self-administer intravenously-delivered cocaine. Four lever-press responses resulted in a cocaine infusion (0.2 mg/kg) during daily 24-h sessions. The rats were also trained to obtain water from tongue-operated solenoid-driven drinking spouts. Ground food and water from a standard drinking bottle were also available. When cocaine injections reached stable levels,l-tryptophan was mixed with the rats' food for 5 days. Three concentrations ofl-tryptophan (2, 4, and 8%) were tested in different groups of five rats each. Three other groups of five rats each received the samel-tryptophan treatments; however, in these rats saline was substituted for cocaine and a sweet drinking solution consisting of glucose and saccharin (G + S) replaced water in the automatic drinking device. Two other groups consisting of five rats each self-administered a higher (0.4 mg/kg) or lower (0.1 mg/kg) unit dose of cocaine and food adulterated with 4% tryptophan. At the two higher concentrationsl-tryptophan reduced cocaine infusions by at least 50% during the 5 days of treatment, and cocaine infusions returned to baseline levels within 48 h after the regular diet was restored. Responding reinforced by the G + S solution was not altered by any of thel-tryptophan concentrations. Food intake was substantially lowered by the 8%l-tryptophan concentration; however, water intake, responding on an inactive lever, and the number of saline infusions were not affected by addition ofl-tryptophan to the food.l-Tryptophan had the same magnitude of effect on self-administration of the 0.1 and 0.2 mg/kg unit doses of cocaine, but behavior maintained by the highest cocaine dose (0.4 mg/kg) was resistant to the effect ofl-tryptophan. The results of this experiment indicate thatl-tryptophan reduces behavior reinforced by IV cocaine infusions.
Computational Identification of Post Translational Modification Regulated RNA Binding Protein Motifs.

RNA and its associated RNA binding proteins (RBPs) mitigate a diverse array of cellular functions and phenotypes. The interactions between RNA and RBPs are implicated in many roles of biochemical processing by the cell such as localization, protein translation, and RNA stability. Recent discoveries of novel mechanisms that are of significant evolutionary advantage between RBPs and RNA include the interaction of the RBP with the 3’ and 5’ untranslated region (UTR) of target mRNA. These mechanisms are shown to function through interaction of a trans-factor (RBP) and a cis-regulatory element (3’ or 5’ UTR) by the binding of a RBP to a regulatory-consensus nucleic acid motif region that is conserved throughout evolution. Through signal transduction, regulatory RBPs are able to temporarily dissociate from their target sites on mRNAs and induce translation, typically through a post-translational modification (PTM). These small, regulatory motifs located in the UTR of mRNAs are subject to a loss-of-function due to single polymorphisms or other mutations that disrupt the motif and inhibit the ability to associate into the complex with RBPs. The identification of a consensus motif for a given RBP is difficult, time consuming, and requires a significant degree of experimentation to identify each motif-containing gene on a genomic scale. We have developed a computational algorithm to analyze high-throughput genomic arrays that contain differential binding induced by a PTM for a RBP of interest–RBP-PTM Target Scan (RPTS). We demonstrate the ability of this application to accurately predict a PTM-specific binding motif to an RBP that has no antibody capable of distinguishing the PTM of interest, negating the use of in-vitro exonuclease digestion techniques.
Efficient Orchestration? The Global Environment Facility in the Governance of Climate Adaptation

Financing for climate adaptation is governed by an unusual arrangement whereby the Global Environment Facility (GEF) channels funds through other IGOs — including the World Bank, UNEP and UNDP — which in turn develop and implement projects on the ground. The concept and techniques of Orchestration outlined by the framework authors helps us understand this complicated governance arrangement. The GEF, as Orchestrator, supports and steers various Intermediaries (the “implementing agencies”) to effect change in Target states (developing-country recipients). In our explanation of this outcome, we find support for four of the volume’s hypotheses: intermediary availability, orchestrator focality, goal divergence and state oversight. We also explore whether the relationship between the GEF and its implementing agencies is efficient and complementary. We find that this is generally the case and that the Orchestrator Capabilities and Intermediary Available hypotheses capture this arrangement quite well. While the climate adaptation case offers considerable support for the theoretical framework, recent developments raise concerns about the robustness of orchestration as a governance equilibrium, which may evolve over time toward harder and direct modes of governance.
The Analysis of the Multiple Themes in the Novels of Saul Bellow

Novels by the Jewish writer Saul Bellow always reveal the dilemmas and confusion confronted by the protagonist and the humanistic crisis of the middle class.His works also reveal the innermost desire for the sense of security.The themes in his works are always multiple such as alienation,identification.His works reflect the new characteristic in the American literature and provide a new perspective in the study of literature.
Analysis on Individual Dose in Radioactive Practitioners in Sichuan Province in 2013

Objective To analyze the individual dose in radioactive practitioner in Sichuan province in 2013 and to evaluate the protection status. Methods With thermoluminescence dosimetry method,the radioactive practitioners in the province were examined in 2013 and the results were analyzed and evaluated. Results A total of 10 775 individuals were monitored. The annual average effective dose was 1. 04 m Sv·a-1 and the collective effective dose was 11. 24 person·Sv. The proportion of practitioners with effective dose less than 1 m Sv·a-1a ccounted for 91. 6% of the total and that of less than 2 m Sv·a-1a ccounted for 97. 4%. Those with dose surpassed 5 m Sv·a-1a ccounted for 0. 38% of the total practitioners and 18 practitioner had a dose in 10-13 m Sv·a-1. The annual average dose in industrial application was more than that in medical application( t96. 27,P0. 01). Conclusion The individual dose in radioactive practitioners in Sichuan are far below the national limit of 20 m Sv·a-1 as a whole,indicating that the working condition is safe,yet the protection measures need further improvement.