cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Data reproducibility of an inertial resistance exercise device suggested for use during space travel

An exercise ergometer that employs two flywheels for inertial resistance was created to abate ankle extensor mass and strength losses incurred.with space flight. Unlike other flywheel- and inertia-based devices, the ergometer imparts muscle-lengthening resistance so that the ankle extensors may perform concentric and eccentric muscle actions within a single exercise repetition. Due to the unique manner the ergometer operates and the need to quantify workout data for the development of in-flight exercise protocols, instrumentation of the device is an important concern. After calculation of the flywheels' moment of inertia, a motor with a small rotary shaft and rubber wheel at its terminal end was mounted on the ergometer so that it stayed in contact with, and rotated concurrently with, a single flywheel. Voltage samples produced from changes in flywheel velocity were recorded on-line at 100 MHz. Exercise performance was assessed in healthy college-age subjects (n = 34) across two workouts spaced one week apart. Workouts entailed two sets often seated calf press repetitions as subjects were instructed to exert maximal voluntary effort. Multiple test-retest measures revealed the inertia] resistance ergometer, instrumented as described herein, elicits reproducible intra- and inter-workout performance data.
Chapter 28 Synthetic Approaches to Anthracycline Antibiotics

Publisher Summary This chapter analyzes the synthesis of the anthracyclines and their importance as chemotherapeutic agents for the treatment of a broad spectrum of human cancers. The synthesis of the anthracyclines is divided into three parts: construction of the aglycones synthesis of the sugar residue and coupling of the two. The principal synthetic challenges posed by the aglycones include generation of the tetracyclic skeleton, introduction of the A-ring functionality, and achievement of the “correct” regiochemical juxtaposition of the substituents in the A– and D–rings. The demonstration that the natural, cis orientation of the 7- and 9-hydroxyl groups is thermodynamically preferred (∼6:1 ratio) and that epimerization of the C-7 position is affected by CF 3 COOH has attenuated the need to address aglycone stereochemistry directly. Nonetheless, efforts to achieve regiochemically controlled routes have led, inter alia, to a number of new methods of anthraquinone synthesis. In large measure, syntheses of aglycones have relied on the employment of one (or more) of the three general reaction classes: Friedel Crafts alkylations or acylations, nucleophilic condensations, and Diels Alder reactions. The search for effective solutions to aglycone regiochemistry has led to the development of a number of new methods for the construction of anthraquinones that involve anionic species in the regiochemically determining step. Efforts toward the synthesis of the anthracyclines have provided a chemical harvest that is already bounteous and continues to be reaped. Whether total (or partial) synthesis will emerge as the practical solution for the future is, however, a question whose ultimate answer depends on many, as yet, incompletely resolved factors that include: the relative economics of fermentative and total synthesis, the potential therapeutic superiority of non-natural anthracyclines, and the future advances in total synthesis.
US hospital-based direct access with radiology referral: an administrative case report

AbstractBackground and Purpose: Legislative gains in the US allow physical therapists to function in expanded scopes of practice including direct access and referral to specialists. The combination of direct access with privileges to order imaging studies directly offers a desirable practice status for many physical therapists, especially in musculoskeletal focused settings. Although direct access is legal in all US jurisdictions, institutional-based physical therapy settings have not embraced these practices. Barriers cited to implementing direct access with advanced practice are concerns over medical and administrative opposition, institutional policies, provider qualifications and reimbursement. This administrative case report describes the process taken to allow therapists to see patients without a referral and to order diagnostic imaging studies at an academic medical center. Nine-month implementation results show 66 patients seen via direct access with 15% referred for imaging studies. Claims submit...
Nobody Sells Gold for the Price of Silver: Dishonesty, Uncertainty and the Underground Economy.

The underground economy has attracted a lot of attention recently as a key component of cybercrime. In particular the IRC markets for stolen identities, phishing kits, botnets, and cybercrime related services have been extensively studied. It is suggested that sophisticated underground markets show great specialization and maturity. There are complex divisions of labor and service offerings for every need. Stolen credentials are traded in bulk for pennies on the dollar. It is suggested that large sums move on these markets.
Ten More Truths about Teaching.

Rarely have I met someone who was not an expert on teaching and schools. The moment I introduce myself as a teacher, two reactions predictably ensue: "Oh, no! Now I have to watch my grammar," and/or "Well, if you ask me [which I did not], the schools really should. . . ." After all, almost everyone has been a student, visited a classroom, or driven by a school building, so experts abound. As a result of innumerable such encounters and of having the same qualifications as anyone else, I believe I am in a position to offer my own truths about teaching. Here are ten to add to your list.
Photosensitivity of B, Si and N implanted silica

Abstract Silica was implanted with B and N ions at 4 MeV and Si ions at 5 MeV with nominal doses of 1 × 10 16 ions/cm 2 . The samples were exposed to 245 nm KrF excimer irradiation with a fluence of 150 mJ/cm 2 per pulse for pulse totals of 1.5, 15 and 30 J/cm 2 . The optical absorption from 200 to 450 nm was measured before and after each series of KrF irradiations. Broad peaks at 210 and 245 nm are observed in the absorption spectra. The magnitude of the absorption as well as the photosensitive response is dependent on the implanted ion species. We attribute the differences observed in the absorption of the as implanted samples and their response to KrF irradiation to differences in the ion-solid interactions.
On the handedness of the scaffolds of sister chromatids

We discuss a mechanical model for the mirror-symmetric inversion of the scaffold's helicity of replicated chromatids vis-a-vis that of their templates. The paper ends with comments on the orientability of certain genes and on the effects of such topologies upon (a)symmetric gene expression, in general. Our model and its generalizations apply only to the special subclass of 'coiled' chromatids whose statistical distribution in the genome of normal and of malignant cells is not known precisely.
Permanent epicardial atrial pacing in the treatment of refractory ventricular tachycardia.

Abstract This report describes a patient with recurrent and refractory ventricular tachycardia occurring in the presence of normal atrioventricular conduction. The rhythm was unresponsive to the usual antiarrhythmic drugs, and control was finally achieved by permanent implantation of an epicardial atrial pacing electrode coupled to a subcutaneously buried pulse generator.
Theory of the Effective Range in Nuclear Scattering

The scattering of neutrons up to about 10 or 20 Mev by protons can be described by two parameters, the scattering length at zero energy, $a$, and the effective range, ${r}_{0}$. A formula (16), expressing the phase shift in terms of $a$ and ${r}_{0}$ is derived; it is identical with one previously derived by Schwinger but the derivation is very much simpler. Reasons are given why the deviations from the simple formula are very small, as shown by the explicit calculations by Blatt and Jackson.The theory is then applied to proton-proton scattering, with a similarly simple result. Moreover, a method is developed to compare proton-proton and proton-neutron scattering without explicit calculation of a nuclear potential.The most recent experimental results are evaluated on the basis of the theory, and accurate values for the effective ranges are obtained for the triplet scattering of neutrons, and for proton-proton scattering. The nuclear force between two protons is found to differ by a slight amount, but beyond doubt, from that between neutron and proton in the singlet state. All actual results agree with those obtained by Breit and collaborators, and by Blatt and Jackson.
Itch and pain in nonmelanoma skin cancer: pain as an important feature of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma.

Pain is a common feature of cancer with an estimated prevalence rate between 52% and 77%.1 Itch is the most common dermatologic symptom and is also a common feature of lymphoma.2 However, no studies have been performed examining the prevalence rates of pain and itch in common skin cancers. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC) are the 2 most common types of nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC). They have a rapidly increasing incidence in the United States, with nearly 4 million new cases of NMSC diagnosed each year.3 The purpose of the present study was to assess the prevalence and intensity of pain and itch among the 2 most common skin cancers.
Progress and change for Cytotherapy.

Cytotherapy was born in 1999 and thus can rightly claim to have been the consistent voice of the International Society of Cell Therapy (ISCT) and the promoter of all aspects of translational medicine in this field since the millennium. In the last 12 years, our journal has become internationally recognized as an authoritative source of papers, reviews and opinion in regenerative medicine, immunotherapy and stem cell transplantation. Our publisher Informa Healthcare (1999e2012) has helped the journal grow in size from six issues a year to 10 issues and has presided over a progressive improvement in our impact factor. In 2012, our contract with Informa came to a close. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Hakan Parop and Charlotta Eklund in particular for their steadfast support that has brought our journal to its current status. Our new publisher Elsevier brings the authority and prestige of a long-established publishing house. Elsevier has been a publishing house for more than 400 years, responsible for printing in 1683 one of Galileo’s finest and most controversial works, Discorsi e Dimonstrazioni Matematiche [Discourses concerning new sciences], in Amsterdam at a time when his work was banned in Italy. One of the reasons that Elsevier has maintained its prestige over the centuries is its capacity to develop and adapt to changing circumstances. This capacity is especially important today when the publishing world is in the process of rapid change, as paper subscriptions and the printed page cede more and more to electronic publication. I am therefore especially happy that Kate Williamson, our immediate contact from Elsevier, is moving us with the times to ensure that Cytotherapy will have the best
Viscous damping in self-gravitating accretion discs

A two-dimensional numerical hydrodynamics code is developed to model viscous accretion discs, employing the method of smoothed particle hydrodynamics. The effective shear viscosity present in the code is evaluated and used to model a physical shear viscosity. Using a polytropic equation of state, models of self-gravitating accretion discs are evolved with a range of physical parameters, including viscosity. From these models it is found that a characteristic mass accretion rate, constant with time, tends to be maintained by accretion discs, and that mass accretion is inversely proportional to the strength of the effective shear viscosity. This is a consequence of the damping effect of local viscous forces upon the global non-axisymmetric modes that primarily drive accretion in these discs. In addition, the formation of satellites (self-gravitating clumps) is observed in models which also develop a dominating m = 1 mode. The possible relevance of these satellites to planet formation is discussed.
Quantum computation and decision trees

Many interesting computational problems can be reformulated in terms of decision trees. A natural classical algorithm is to then run a random walk on the tree, starting at the root, to see if the tree contains a node $n$ level from the root. We devise a quantum-mechanical algorithm that evolves a state, initially localized at the root, through the tree. We prove that if the classical strategy succeeds in reaching level $n$ in time polynomial in $n,$ then so does the quantum algorithm. Moreover, we find examples of trees for which the classical algorithm requires time exponential in $n,$ but for which the quantum algorithm succeeds in polynomial time. The examples we have so far, however, could also be solved in polynomial time by different classical algorithms.
A reliability study of a neonatal seizure scoring system

Abstract Two measures of reliability assessed inter-rater agreement regarding neonatal seizure scoring: coefficient of variation and intraclass correlation coefficient. Ten neonates with electrographic seizures recorded during each of 2 h of an EEG-sleep study were submitted for visual analysis. The onset, spread, and termination of seizures were coded. The number of anatomical sites with electrographic seizures as well as the durations for each of three phases of the seizure were calculated. Seven EEG scores for these 10 patients were coded independently by three different raters. The number of sites at the onset of each seizure and the duration of seizures, both at the onset and for the entire duration of the seizure, had moderate-to-excellent reliability. Lower reliability, however, was noted for the number of seizures during the phases of spread and termination. Before the development of computerized programs to detect and document the evolution of neonatal seizures, particularly in the context of treatment with different medications, practical strategies based on visual analysis need to be developed. Although the onset and total duration of seizures can be reliably scored among raters, the more variable description of spread and termination of the seizure is more problematic and requires greater attention and experience. This technique may be useful in evaluating the medication efficacy.
Affinity and Phosphorylation Constants for the Inhibition of Esterases by Organophosphates

Equations based on the assumption of a reversible first step in the reaction between organophosphate inhibitors and esterases are proposed for the bimolecular rate constant which now includes an affinity constant and a phosphorylation constant. The treatment applies when the inhibition reaction follows first-order kinetics.
Electroscavenging in clouds with broad droplet size distributions and weak electrification

Abstract Electrical, thermophoretic, diffusophoretic and gravitational forces have been included in a self-consistent way in new trajectory calculations of the scavenging of charged aerosol particles by cloud droplets. The important effect of the electrical force is a short-range attraction due to the interaction between the charge on the aerosol particle and the image charge that it induces on the droplet. It is stronger than phoretic forces with only a few tens of elementary charges on aerosol particles of radii 0.1 to 1.0 μm, interacting with cloud droplets of radii greater than 15 μm, and for relative humidity of order 98%. Under these conditions the electrical forces result in collision efficiencies typically an order of magnitude greater than that due to phoretic forces alone. The short-range attraction is insensitive to the sign or magnitude of the charge on the droplet, for larger droplets in weakly electrified clouds. Under typical conditions, aerosol particles arise from evaporation of charged droplets (evaporation residues) and retain the droplet charge, which decays with a time constant of order 15 min. During the time the charge is retained the electrically enhanced scavenging occurs. Some of the evaporation residues may act as ice-forming or condensation nuclei, so there are implications for contact ice nucleation, droplet size distributions, precipitation and cloud cover, as well as for cloud chemistry. We call this electrically enhanced scavenging electroscavenging, and it is strongest for broad droplet size distributions (extending past 15-μm radius). Applying calculated electroscavenging rates to charged evaporation residues, and assuming a fraction of them to have ice nucleation properties consistent with the limited measurements and theory available, we compare for illustrative purposes the rates of primary production of ice, in the form of droplets frozen by contact nucleation, with the concentrations of ice particles from deposition nucleation. Using a set of measured droplet size distributions that are broad or bimodal we find, for temperatures between 0 and −15 °C and in regions of clouds where mixing and evaporation are occurring, that the two production rates are of comparable magnitude.
Sociocultural and epidemiological issues in the assessment of domestic violence

This paper presents alternative models for the integration of multicultural issues in research on domestic violence. Issues are discussed that illustrate ethnic specific strengths, concerns, and weaknesses of ethnic families and communities. These issues need to be incorporated in future research that more thoroughly examines ethnic and cultural issues in violence research. Alternative strategies for future research are also suggested which call for the incorporation of ethnic and cultural issues on an ongoing basis, so that commonalities across studies can emerge and we can begin to understand the cultural context of domestic violence.
Joint source and relay power optimization in multiuser cooperative wireless networks

This paper considers the minimization of overall power transmitted from source and relay nodes in a multiuser cooperative network, constrained with the quality of service (QoS) of each user determined by their output signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR). In this paper, we consider a two-hop cooperative wireless network consisting of single-antenna nodes in which multiple concurrent links are relayed by a number of cooperative nodes. Unlike the previous relevant works that either consider the source power or relay weight optimization or their joint optimization in a separate sense, this paper considers them in the same platform and thus achieves overall transmit power minimization. It is shown that optimized power distribution over the source and relay nodes depends on the channel conditions and thus requires joint optimization operation as proposed in this paper. Compared to the previously developed schemes, the joint power optimization developed in this paper offers significant transmit power reduction and QoS satisfactions.
Delamination strength of YBCO coated conductors under transverse tensile stress

We present a new experimental technique to measure the delamination strength under transverse tensile stress of YBa2Cu3O7−δ coated conductors for electric power applications. The delamination strength, defined as the tensile stress at which the ceramic layers delaminate from one another, is measured at 76 K for different sample configurations. The delamination strength is reduced by as much as 40% when the conductor is slit to smaller width, a standard fabrication process, and this reduction is due to damage to the ceramic layers near the edges of the conductor. We found that the delamination strength of slit coated conductors can be raised significantly by reinforcing the conductor by laminating it with copper strips and adding solder fillets at the edges. In relatively strong conductors, where the delamination strength is as high as 15 MPa, the critical current does not degrade before actual delamination. This fact greatly simplifies sample characterization of practical high-strength conductors, since only mechanical measurements need to be made. The critical current does, however, degrade significantly as a function of transverse stress before delamination in weak conductors that have relatively low delamination strength below 15 MPa. We discuss how a soft metallic layer in YBCO coated conductors may limit the transverse stress that the superconducting layer experiences in applications.
A modified method for quantifying methyl and butyltins in estuarine sediments

Abstract A method is presented for the rapid determination of organotins in aquatic sediments. It employs extraction of sediments with acidic methanol, formation of organotin hydrides, chromatographic separation of individual hydrides, and element-specific detection with quartz furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. The method has been applied to sediments from Boston Harbor.
Cloning multigene families with degenerate PCR primers

Multigene families often exhibit regions of highly conserved amino acid sequence that are characteristic of a given family. Degenerate PCR primers that target these motifs will selectively amplify members within that multigene family. Members of the family that are expressed in a particular tissue can be amplified from cDNA. The PCR products can be easily cloned, screened, and sequenced over a precise region to rapidly identify novel genes. PCR with degenerate primers can also be used to screen the expression of these genes in various tissues and cell types.
Ganglion Cyst Presenting as an External Auditory Canal Mass

Ganglion cysts are the most common benign tumor of the wrist and hand; however, ganglion cysts associated with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) are a rare finding. In this report, we present a case of a ganglion cyst found in the external auditory canal (EAC). This case is distinctive as there are currently no published reports of a ganglion cyst originally presenting as an EAC mass without anterior canal wall erosion.
Economic correlates of violent death rates in forty countries, 1962–2008: A cross-typological analysis

Abstract Objectives Our goal was to identify if there might be advantages to combining two major public health concerns, i.e., homicides and suicides, in an analysis with well-established macro-level economic determinants, i.e., unemployment and inequality. Methods Mortality data, unemployment statistics, and inequality measures were obtained for 40 countries for the years 1962–2008. Rates of combined homicide and suicide, ratio of suicide to combined violent death, and ratio between homicide and suicide were graphed and analyzed. A fixed effects regression model was then performed for unemployment rates and Gini coefficients on homicide, suicide, and combined death rates. Results For a majority of nation states, suicide comprised a substantial proportion (mean 75.51%; range 0–99%) of the combined rate of homicide and suicide. When combined, a small but significant relationship emerged between logged Gini coefficient and combined death rates (0.0066, p Conclusions Violent deaths, when combined, were associated with an increase in unemployment and an increase in Gini coefficient, creating a more robust variable. As the effects of macro-level factors (e.g., social and economic policies) on violent death rates in a population are shown to be more significant than those of micro-level influences (e.g., individual characteristics), these associations may be useful to discover. An expansion of socioeconomic variables and the inclusion of other forms of violence in future research could help elucidate long-term trends.
Approach to the establishment of a routine analysis of serum copper by atomic absorption

Summary 1. A method is described for the establishment of a routine laboratory assay of metals in serum with an attempt to study all significant possibility of interference with the method. 2. Appropriate steps are taken in establishment of the method to eliminate significant interferences and to insure that all the metal is being measured and that only that metal is contributing to the assay. 3. A previously reported assay for serum copper is evaluated by the established protocol.
Semi-autonomous registration of satellite imagery using feature fitting

Interband coregistration of multispectral satellite imagery is essential to exploiting the spectral information inherent in these data. A semi-automatic image registration method has been developed for Multispectral Thermal Imager (MTI) data. This registration method, based on feature fitting within the image, is applicable to the 14 MTI spectral bands that contain ground information; these spectral bands range from 0.45 to 10.7micrometers . The feature fitting registration method requires selection of an appropriate scene feature in the image, usually a crossroad or other feature with moderately high contrast to compute the required shift in x and y for each band. This paper describes the algorithm and provides examples of images registered using this method. Preliminary results show that for MTI image registration, feature fitting yields better results than cross-correlation. Results also show that this algorithm works well for a broad variety of scenes; this algorithm has been applied to images with scene content ranging from desert images with very little structure to heavily forested images. This method has been developed in support of the MTI mission, but may easily be extended for use on image data collected by other multispectral sensors.© (2001) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Molecular cloning and sequencing of H-2Kk cDNA: comparison with other H-2 genes and evidence for alternative splicing.

A cDNA library was constructed from mouse L cells that were transfected with a human HLA-B7 gene fragment lacking the 5′-segment of exon 2 and all upstream sequences. A cDNA clone (pESP-C103) which is of mouse origin was detected by hybridization with the HLA-B7 gene. Comparison of the amino acid (aa) sequence predicted from the nucleotide sequence of the cDNA and the partial aa sequence of the H-2kk antigen suggests that this cDNA (pESP-C103) codes for the H-2Kk antigen. This cDNA clone extends to the middle of the leader sequence. Comparison of the nucleotide and deduced aa sequences with those of other H-2 genes revealed an alternative splicing in exon 8 in the case of the H-2kk gene.
A novel mutant of the lac transport system of Escherichia coli.

Abstract A new type of lactose permease mutant, called lacYf, does not actively transport the usual substrates; but it does facilitate the entry of β-galactosides into Escherichia coli K-12. The kinetics of facilitated entry, as assayed by hydrolysis of o-nitrophenyl-β- d -galactopyranoside by intact cells are identical to those observed with wild-type permease. However, the mutant permease activity is not affected by SH reagents or the substrate analog β- d -galactosyl-1-thio-β- d -galactopyranoside which strongly inhibit wild-type activity. Furthermore, the kinetics of formation of permease in the mutant following addition of inducer and the kinetics subsequent to removal of inducer differ strikingly from those observed in wild-type strains. The results are consistent with a block in the maturation of permease in the mutant resulting in the accumulation of a large amount of permease precursor. Studies of the lacY + lacY f heterogenotes provide evidence for a subunit structure for the lactose permease.
The effect of environmental uncertainty on morphological design and fluid balance in Sarracenia purpurea L.

To explore principles of organismic design in fluctuating environments, morphological design of the leaf of the pitcher-plant, Sarracenia purpurea, was studied for a population in northern Michigan. The design criterion focused upon the leaf shape and minimum size which effectively avoids leaf desiccation (complete loss of fluid from the leaf cavity) in the face of fluctuating rainfall and meteorological conditions. Bowl- and pitcher-shaped leaves were considered. Simulations show that the pitcher geometry experiences less frequent desiccation than bowls of the same size. Desiccation frequency is inversely related to leaf size; the size distribution of pitcher leaves in the field shows that the majority of pitchers desiccate only 1–3 times per season on average, while smaller pitchers may average up to 8 times per season. A linear filter model of an organism in a fluctuating environment is presented, in which the organism selectively filters the temporal patterns of environmental input. General measures of rainfall predictability based upon information theory and spectral analysis are consistent with the model of a pitcher leaf as a low-pass (frequency) filter which avoids desiccation by eliminating high-frequency rainfall variability.
LIME GREEN LIGHT‐EMITTING DIODE EQUIPPED YELLOW STICKY CARD TRAPS FOR MONITORING WHITEFLIES, APHIDS AND FUNGUS GNATS IN GREENHOUSES

Abstract Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) were attached to plastic cup and sticky card traps to improve pest insect catches in the laboratory and in greenhouses. Plastic cup traps equipped with 530 nm lime green LEDs caught more adult Trialeurodes vaporariorum (Westwood) and Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) biotype B compared with plastic cup traps alone. Yellow sticky card (YC) and clear plastic sticky card (CS) traps equipped with lime green LEDs (LED-YC and LED-CS, respectively) caught more adult T. vaporariorum, B. tabaci biotype B, Aphis gossypii (Glover) and Bradysia coprophila (Lintner) compared with unlit traps of each type in greenhouse cage studies with shell beans, Phaseolus vulgaris (L.) and cotton, Gossypium hirsutum (L.). The lime green LED equipped YC traps have potential for use in greenhouses for insect detection, monitoring, and control.
Teratogenic effects of benomyl in the Wistar rat and CD-1 mouse, with emphasis on the route of administration.

Abstract Benomyl, a systemic fungicide whose molecular basis of action is inhibition of tubulin polymerization, was administered during organogenesis via the dietary and gavage routes to pregnant Wistar rats, and via the gavage route to pregnant CD-1 mice. Benomyl was fetotoxic and teratogenic in both species via the po route of administration, producing a broad spectrum of malformations at a dose of 62.5 mg/kg/day in the rat and 100 mg/kg/day in the mouse. Via the dietary route of administration, benomyl produced fetotoxicity, but no teratogenic effects. The fetotoxic potential of benomyl from dietary exposure was approximately an order of magnitude less effective than from gavage exposure. Benomyl did not affect postnatal growth, viability, or locomotor activity at subteratogenic doses. The most sensitive indicator of perinatal exposure to benomyl via the po route of administration was a permanent reduction in testes and accessory sex gland weight noted in male offspring of dams receiving 31.2 mg/kg/day benomyl during gestation and lactation. No effects on any parameters were evident in rats receiving 15.6 mg/kg/day by po gavage. The relevance of the two routes of administration for risk extrapolation is discussed.
Effect of an invasive ground cover plant on the abundance and diversity of a forest floor spider assemblage

Ground dwelling spiders are important predators in the detrital food web, which plays important roles in nutrient cycling and energy flow in forest ecosystems. The cursorial spider assemblage in a Beech-Maple forest in southwestern Michigan at sites where and invasive plant, Vinca minor, has invaded was compared to a native site within the same forest and to the forest prior to invasion by the plant. Pitfall traps were used to sample cursorial spiders over the course of a summer. Vinca minor substantially altered the forest floor spider assemblage. The invasive plant reduced the total activity-abundance of spiders by nearly 49% and depressed species diversity and evenness; in contrast, species richness was not affected. We found that V. minor changed the guild and family structure with wolf spiders being common at sites where the plant had invaded. Vinca minor reduced the abundance of vagrant web building and crab spiders. Similarity indices revealed that the spider communities between the two sites were quite dissimilar (Bray-Curtis = 0.506; Jaccard’s = 0.520). Importantly, comparison to a study conducted in the same forest 28 years earlier showed that the cursorial spider assemblage in the forest prior to Vinca invasion was very different than it was after Vinca invaded but was similar to the current native site in species and guild composition. We conclude that invasion by Vinca has caused the striking changes we observed in community organization of this important group of forest floor predators. We suggest that changes in the physical structure of the litter/soil microhabitat with the invasion of V. minor are likely the cause of the substantial impacts of the plant on the spider assemblage.
NOAA Model Extended to Use Nowcast/Forecast Currents

ABSTRACT GNOME (General NOAA Oil Modeling Environment) is a publicly available oil spill trajectory model used by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Hazardous Materials Response Division (HAZMAT) for oil spill response. In order to leverage work being done within and outside NOAA to develop detailed circulation models, GNOME has been extended to accept currents in a number of formats (ASCII, netCDF) from different types of models (time dependent triangular, rectangular, or curvilinear grids). In particular, HAZMAT is interested in connections with nowcast/forecast models. The NOAA Live Access Server (LAS), using the Unidata Distributed Oceanographic Data System (DODS), has been extended to support several nowcast/forecast models in the U.S. DODS provides the tools to make local data accessible to the outside through the Internet, regardless of internal format. LAS is a highly configurable server that allows on-the-fly graphics for data visualization, custom subsetting, and differen...
Differential gene expression at gestational days 14 and 16 in normal and nitrofen‐induced hypoplastic murine fetal lungs with coexistent diaphragmatic hernia

The purpose of this study was to identify differentially expressed genes in normal and nitrofen-induced hypoplastic lungs in fetal mice. Such genes may play a role in the regulation of lung development. CD-1 pregnant dams were gavaged with 25 mg of nitrofen on gestational day (Gd) 8 to induce pulmonary hypoplasia and diaphragmatic hernia (DH). Normal and nitrofen-treated fetuses were removed on Gd 14 and Gd 16. Lungs were examined in all nitrofen-exposed fetuses and only those that had developed severely hypoplastic lungs with coexistent diaphragmatic hernia were taken for molecular analyses. RNA was extracted from normal and nitrofen-treated lungs, reverse transcribed, and PCR-amplified using 48 combinations of anchor and arbitrary primers for each condition. The resulting cDNAs from normal and hypoplastic lungs were run on 6% polyacrylamide differential display gels. In Gd 14 lungs, we observed 10 differentially expressed cDNA bands, of which 6 were identified to be inhibited and 4 were reduced in the hypoplastic lungs compared to normal fetal lungs. From the Gd 16 lungs, a total of 29 differentially expressed cDNA bands were found, of which 11 were reduced, 4 were inhibited, 11 were enhanced, and 3 were induced in the hypoplastic compared to the normal lungs. All 39 differentially expressed cDNAs were cloned, sequenced, and identified through BLAST searches. Among the sequences that were identified, results were as follows: 1) Hypoplastic Gd 14 lungs had two unknown cDNA sequences with reduced/inhibited expressions, whereas one was a known sequence having 77% similarity with a promoter region regulating various cytokines such as IL-1, IL-2, and IL-11. The expression of this sequence was inhibited in the hypoplastic lungs. This sequence also had similarity to lipid-binding proteins. 2) On Gd 16, hypoplastic lungs had one cDNA sequence with reduced expression which had 82% similarity with thyroid hormone receptor gene exon 1 and two other cDNA sequences with enhanced expressions. One of these enhanced cDNA sequences in hypoplastic lungs had 98% similarity with the fibroblast growth factor receptor-3 gene, and the other was an unknown sequence. Northern blot hybridizations were performed to confirm the differential expression of the two sequences of interest, which were identified as thyroid hormone receptor and fibroblast growth factor (FGF) receptor-3. Overall, out of a total of 39 RT-PCR products (i.e., cDNAs), the abundance of which was altered by nitrofen, 6 were found to be homologous to sequences in Gen Bank through BLAST searches. These 6 sequences became the products of interest, and 3 of these 6 products were similar to previously identified genes. Our results may shed some light on regulatory aspects of lung development and open avenues for treatment of hypoplastic lungs and other respiratory problems in human neonates.
Stability, Monotonicity, Maximum and Minimum Principles, and Implementation of the Volume Corrected Characteristic Method

We consider the volume corrected characteristics-mixed method (VCCMM) for tracer transport problems. The volume correction adjustment maintains the local volume conservation of bulk fluids and the numerical convergence of the method. We discuss some details of implementation by considering the scheme from an algebraic point of view. We show that the volume correction adjustment is important for stability and necessary for the monotonicity and the maximum and minimum principles of the method. We also derive a relatively weaker stability property for the uncorrected characteristic-mixed method (CMM). Some numerical experiments of a quarter “five-spot” pattern of wells are given to verify our theoretical results and compare the concentration errors of VCCMM and CMM due to random perturbations set up in the computation of the algorithm. More numerical tests, including one related to long-time nuclear waste storage, are given to compare VCCMM with CMM and Godunov's method, showing that VCCMM exhibits no overshoots or undershoots and less numerical diffusion.
Thyrotropin-induced thyroidal release of 5-hydroxytryptamine and accompanying ultrastructural changes in parafollicular cells.

The action of TSH on parafollicular cells of the bat thyroid was examined. Parafollicular cells were loaded with [3H]5-hydroxytryptamine ([3H]5-HT) by incubation with the precursor [3H]5-hydroxytryptophan in vitro. Subsequent exposure to TSH released [3H]5-HT from the glands, but not [3H]5-hydroxytryptophan. When thyroids were loaded with [3H]nor-epineprhine, TSH failed to release that amine. The [3H]5-HT-releasing effects of TSH were blocked by dinitrophenol and antimycin A and so were energy dependent. [3H]5-HT was not released by pentagastrin or calcitonin. Electron microscopic examination of thyroid glands exposed to TSH in vitro revealed degranulation of some parafollicular cells as well as the presence of abnormal appearing microgranules and large intracisternal (within rough endoplasmic reticulum) accumulations of secretory material. These results demonstrate for the first time direct effects of TSH on parafollicular cells. The results are consistent with the hypothesis that 5-HT, a normal constitu...
Odorant- and guanine nucleotide-stimulated phosphoinositide turnover in olfactory cilia.

Isolated olfactory cilia from the channel catfish (Ictaluruspunctatus) exhibited phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate phosphodiesterase (E.C.3.1.4.11) activity. The phosphodiesterase activity was stimulated in the presence of an odorant for the catfish, namely the amino acid L-alanine. The enzyme activity was also stimulated in the presence of GTP and its nonhydrolyzable analogues. The activation of the phosphodiesterase by guanine nucleotides, in combination with the identification of guanine nucleotide-binding protein(s) in the isolated cilia, indicate the probable participation of a guanine nucleotide-binding protein in stimulation of phosphoinositide turnover in the olfactory receptor neuron.
Comparing Job Descriptions for Interlibrary Loan Department Heads at Different Types of Libraries

This article compares job descriptions for the heads of interlibrary loan at six libraries: two small public libraries, one large public library, two small university libraries, and one large university library. The comparison allows interlibrary loan coordinators to compare their job descriptions, specifically their responsibilities, to whom they report, whom they supervise, and what interlibrary loan software they use. It will help administrators create new job descriptions or update old ones, and it will contribute to the discussion of whether having a Master of Library Science degree makes one a better interlibrary loan coordinator.
Relationship Between Deuterium Inhibition of Growth and Glucose Catabolism in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

SummaryDeuterium reversibly inhibited yeast growth and glucose catabolism. The similarity between these effects indicated that growth rate depression was primarily due to suppression of glucose catabolism. The latter effect was probably due to inhibition of enzyme reaction rates.
SU-EE-A2-04: Traceability to National Measurement Standards for Electronic Brachytherapy Calibrations

Purpose: To establish a primary air‐kerma standard for the Xoft miniature x‐ray brachytherapy source. Method and Materials: A new calibration facility has been designed at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to directly realize air kerma from electronic brachytherapy sources operated up to 50 kV. The previously established primary x‐ray standard, the Lamperti free‐air ionization chamber, has been dedicated for this measurement capability. The spectrum emergent from the source is measured with a high‐purity germanium spectrometer. To account for possible anisotropy of emissions from the source, both the free‐air chamber and the spectrometer are rotated about the long axis of the source. Well‐chamber measurements are also performed to study the variability in the ratio of well‐chamber current to air‐kerma rate in anticipation of developing a method for transferring the NIST standard to secondary calibration laboratories and/or therapy clinics. Results: Comparisons of the air‐kerma rate realized by two NIST x‐ray primary standards, the Lamperti free‐air chamber (10 kV to 60 kV) and the Ritz free‐air chamber (20 kV to 100 kV), were in agreement to better than 1% as is typical for well‐established primary x‐ray standards. This comparison validated the use of the Lamperti chamber in establishing the measurement techniques required for the determination of air kerma. Conclusion: NIST has designed, constructed, and validated the experimental apparatus necessary for the measurement of air‐kerma from an x‐ray brachytherapy source using a primary standard. NIST acknowledges the support of Xoft, Inc., in this project.
Acadesine (AICA-riboside) improves postischemic cardiac recovery.

Abstract To test if acadesine (5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide riboside), a purine precursor, has cardioprotective effects, 16 dogs were placed on total cardiopulmonary bypass and subjected to global myocardial ischemia. Hemodynamic recovery was compared between a control (n = 8) group receiving standard cardioplegia and an acadesine (n = 8) group pretreated with intravenous acadesine (2.5 mg · kg −1 · min −1 for 5 minutes, then 0.5 mg · kg −1 · min −1 ) before ischemia, during ischemia, and until 10 minutes after removal of the aortic crossclamp. Additionally, in the acadesine group the cardioplegia also contained 20 μmol/L acadesine. While the dogs were on cardiopulmonary bypass, global warm myocardial ischemia was induced by aortic cross-clamping for 5 minutes under normothermic conditions to simulate an angioplasty accident. Five minutes after aortic crossclamping, hypothermic cardioplegia (30 mL/kg) was administered. The left anterior descending coronary artery was occluded before the first infusion of cardioplegia to simulate poor cardioplegia delivery that can occur during an emergency coronary artery bypass procedure after an angioplasty accident. The left anterior descending artery occlusion was released, and additional cardioplegia (15 mL/kg) infusions were made every 30 minutes thereafter during 120 minutes of cardioplegic ischemia. Thirty minutes after reperfusion, all animals in both groups were weaned from bypass and recovery data were obtained to compare with baseline preischemic values. There were no significant differences in heart rate, left atrial pressure, or systemic vascular resistance between groups after weaning from bypass. Peak developed pressure recovered to 79% ± 19% (mean ± standard deviation) of baseline in the acadesine group compared with 56% ± 22% in the control group ( p p p p
On the Stereochemistry of the Dihydropyrone Diels−Alder Reaction

The Diels−Alder reaction of activated dihydropyrones with electron-rich dienes proceeds with synthetically useful levels of diastereoselectivity. Product ratios vary with the nature and location of substituents on diene and dienophile, as well as with reaction conditions. Lewis acid catalyzed reactions of related pyrone and benzopyrone dienophiles are also diastereoselective.
Bioterrorism: what practicing physicians can do.

Given the specter of biological terrorism, the medical system has much to learn and much to do to prepare.
Asymmetric total synthesis of (+)-sattazolin

The first asymmetric total synthesis of the antiviral natural product (+)-sattazolin is reported. The total synthesis allowed for unambiguous assignment of the absolute configuration of the hydroxyl bearing stereocenter. Strategies to circumvent an unanticipated alpha-ketol rearrangement encountered in the final steps are also outlined.
Relation between renin release and blood pressure response to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in hypertension.

This editorial has three goals: 1) to underscore the significance of the work by Imanishi and colleagues to clinical medicine and to basic science; 2) to integrate the present study into a conceptual framework by highlighting certain aspects of the biology of prostaglandins and; 3) to point out the relation of the study by Imanishi et al to earlier observations in both animals and humans