cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Developmental and regional expression patterns of Type I Nitric Oxide Synthase mRNA and protein in fetal sheep brain during the last third of gestation.

Type I NOS (nNOS) catalytic activity represents the activity of full-size protein and truncated protein variants originated from many different spliced mRNA variants. Splice mRNA variants are thought to be important in determining the differential organ and subcellular expression of Type I NOS. The present study was directed to increase our understanding of the developmental regulation of Type I NOS in fetal brain. In four discrete areas of the fetal brain, we measured steady-state mRNA levels and catalytic activity and protein mass in the soluble and particulate fractions. Under general anesthesia, we collected sensory-motor cortex, striatum, hippocampus and cerebellum from sheep fetuses at 105, 115, 125 and 135 days gestation (32 fetuses). NOS protein in the soluble and particulate fractions was characterized using Western blot (molecular weight) and arginine to citrulline conversion (enzymatic activity). At the mRNA level, steady state levels were determined using probes directed against exon 2 and exon 21/22 by ribonuclease protection assay (RPA). Our data show that NOS catalytic activity is regulated in a region, subcellular and temporal manner. NOS activity was higher in the soluble fraction in all brain regions and significantly higher levels were found in the soluble fraction of striatum and particulate fraction of hippocampus (P<0.05 by ANOVA). Western blot analysis revealed three distinct molecular weight bands for Type I NOS (155, 144 and 136 kDa). The bands were present in all brain regions and in both cellular compartments with the 155 kDa band being the most abundant molecular form. Truncated protein variants accounted for 25% and 15% of total Type I NOS protein in the soluble fraction and particulate fraction respectively. RPA analysis showed a differential regulation of mRNA variants with exon 2 frame deletions in striatum and hippocampus. A coordinated increase with advancing gestational age of catalytic activity, the full-length protein, the protein variants and steady state mRNA levels was observed in cortex and striatum as demonstrated by higher levels at 125 and 135 days gestation (P<0.05 by ANOVA). NOS enzymatic activity was Ca2+ and calmodulin dependent. However, in the particulate fraction 20% of the NOS activity was resistant to calmodulin inhibition. In summary, fetal brain Type I NOS mRNA variants are differentially regulated according to brain regions. Our data suggests that exon 2 deleted mRNA variants have low translation efficiency as indicated by the lack of parallel expression of truncated Type I NOS protein variants.
Chlamydia trachomatis detection in adolescents: A comparison of direct specimen and tissue culture methods

We compared tissue cell culture isolation with the Microtrak fluorescent monoclonal antibody direct specimen test for detection of endocervical Chlamydia trachomatis in an inner-city population of sexually active Black and Hispanic adolescent girls. Of the 95 patients screened, C. trachomatis was identified in 26.3%. The sensitivity of the direct specimen test was 91.7%, and its specificity was 98.6%. The positive predictive value was 95.6%, and the negative predictive value was 97.2%. No significant difference was found between Blacks (28.6%) and Hispanics (24.1%) in the incidence of endocervical C. trachomatis , nor was the use of an oral contraceptive significantly associated with the diagnosis of C. trachomatis ( p > 0.10). Neisseria gonorrhoeae was isolated in 8.4% of the patients. The direct specimen test appears to be an accurate and convenient method of screening sexually active adolescent girls for genital C. trachomatis . Further study is needed to determine if an oral contraceptive increases the risk of Chlamydia infection in adolescents.
Collaborative multidisciplinary decision making using game theory and design capability indices

The complexity of modern product realization processes requires collaborative work of engineering teams from different disciplines. We apply principles from game theory to model the relationships between engineering teams and facilitate collaborative decision making. In order to maintain design freedom in the early stages of product realization so that engineering teams in the later stages can adjust their decisions while still maintaining feasibility, we postulate the use of design capability indices to facilitate the teams making a ranged set of decisions, instead of specific ones. The effect of game theoretic principles and design capability indices on design freedom and therefore on the design solutions is also investigated. An electronic package design and analysis scenario is used to demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed method.
Design, analysis, and testing of a CCD array mounting structure

A method has been developed for mounting charge-coupled device (CCD) arrays in an optical telescope so as to minimize thermal defocusing errors. The mounting arrangement was developed for a six-inch aperture, visible band, off-axis reimaging telescope attached to an experimental satellite. The mounting arrangement consists of two pieces: a fiberglass frame which holds the actively cooled CCD package and provides thermal isolation from the telescope body; and a titanium flexure, which acts to minimize structural distortions caused by the difference in thermal expansion properties of the CCD array and the telescope body. This paper describes the design, analysis, and testing of this CCD array mounting arrangement. A detailed finite-element model of the CCD array and the mount was developed and used to predict thermally-induced defocus and gravity sag deformations, as well as natural frequencies. Experimental tests to verify the computer model results were performed using holographic interferometry. Vibration tests were also performed to verify the natural frequencies as well as structural integrity during launch. A comparison of the computer model predictions and the holographic interferometric measurements of thermally-induced defocussing indicates agreement to within 15 to 20%. Both the experimental and computer results indicate that the mounting structure provides focus stability over the operational temperature range of the telescope with sufficient structural integrity to survive the anticipated spacecraft launch loads.© (1991) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Wine and the Consumer Price-Perceived Quality Heuristics

Does price have anything to do with Wine? The consumer price-perceived quality has always been used by consumers when they gauge the quality of a product or service. In this article, we develop three propositions which show how the consumer uses the price-perceived quality in the wine industry. For all types of wines, there will be attributes like ratings, brand name and word of mouth that will affect the purchase. The goal in this paper is to offer propositions that can motivate empirical research pertaining to the factors that influence how consumers use the price-perceived quality heuristic to determine which wine is worth the money that they are paying for. The findings will point to several ways that wine sellers can realign programs and reallocate resources to raise profitability levels and reduce costs. Primary among them are the development and articulation of whether to upgrade to meet the rating criteria, whether to invest in the brand name or to address public perception through viral marketing.
Platinum-catalyzed enantioselective tandem alkylation/arylation of primary phosphines. Asymmetric synthesis of P-stereogenic 1-phosphaacenaphthenes.

Enantioselective tandem alkylation/arylation of primary phosphines with 1-bromo-8-chloromethylnaphthalene catalyzed by Pt(DuPhos) complexes gave P-stereogenic 1-phosphaacenaphthenes (AcePhos) in up to 74% ee. Diastereoselective formation of four P−C bonds in one pot with bis(primary) phosphines gave C2-symmetric diphosphines, including the o-phenylene derivative DuAcePhos, for which the rac isomer was formed with high enantioselectivity. These reactions, which appear to proceed via an unusual metal-mediated nucleophilic aromatic substitution pathway, yield a new class of heterocycles with potential applications in asymmetric catalysis.
Cutaneous Nerve Transection for the Management of Intractable Upper Extremity Pain Caused By Invasive Squamous Cell Carcinoma

A recurrent clinical dilemma in the management of patients with painful metastatic lesions is achieving a balance between effective analgesic therapies versus intolerable side effects, in particular altered mental status. We present the case of an immunosuppressed patient post-lung transplant who was suffering from intractable pain caused by widely metastatic squamous cell carcinoma. The patient's progressive, excruciating neuropathic pain was localized to the area of the left wrist and forearm. Additionally, the patient complained of moderate pain at sites of tumor involvement on her right arm and scalp. Attempts to adequately manage her left upper extremity pain included a combination of pharmacologic treatments intended to treat neuropathic pain (gabapentin, SNRI, ketamine, opioids) and focused regional analgesia (infraclavicular infusion of local anesthetic). However, the patient developed intolerable side effects including altered mental status and delirium associated with the systemic agents and suboptimal control with the infraclavicular infusion. Given that the most severe pain was well localized, we undertook a diagnostic block of the cutaneous nerves of the left forearm. As this intervention significantly reduced her pain, we subsequently performed neurectomies to the left superficial radial nerve, lateral cutaneous nerve of the forearm and the posterior cutaneous nerve of the forearm. This resulted in immediate and continued relief of her left upper extremity pain without an altered mental status. Residual focal pain from lesions over her right arm and scalp was successfully managed with daily topical applications of lidocaine and capsaicin cream. Successful pain control continued until the patient's death five months later.
Labetalol Analysis in Human Plasma Using Liquid Chromatography with Electrochemical Detection: Application to Pharmacokinetic Studies

Abstract Labetalol determination in human plasma by a sensitive (to 2.5 ng/ml) and selective method using liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection is described. Plasma is extracted with diethyl ether under mildly basic (pH 9) conditions, back-extracted into an aqueous acidic buffer, then injected directly on column. Standard curves using propranolol as an internal standard are linear for concentrations from 2.5 to 200 ng/ml. Within-day and between-day reproducibility is satisfactory with coefficient of variation less than 8% for all concentrations. Sample recovery from the extraction is complete at all concentrations. Utility of the method is demonstrated by a pharmacokinetic study in a hypertensive volunteer who received 43.75 mg labetalol by 10 minute intravenous infusion.
Meeting the challenges of international lending and document supply: learning from the Global Resources Program

The Global Resources Program (GRP) seeks to improve access to international research materials through cooperative structures and the use of new technology. GRP, a joint initiative of the Association of American Universities (AAU) and the Association of Research Libraries (ARL) has launched six projects to test varying models of access. The six projects are in different stages of development and have different levels of North American and international participation. All projects share common challenges and potential barriers. This paper reviews these challenges and barriers and suggests strategies to overcome them. The realization that North American research libraries are no longer able to collect comprehensively provides an opportunity for the global interlibrary loan and document supply community to provide access to and delivery of materials needed by scholars and researchers, regardless of location of the material or the scholar.
Root growth and hydraulic conductivity of southern pine seedlings in response to soil temperature and water availability after planting

Comparison of the root system growth and water transport of southern pine species after planting in different root-zone environments is needed to guide decisions regarding when, and what species to plant. Evaluation of how seed source affects root system responses to soil conditions will allow seed sources to be matched to planting conditions. The root growth and hydraulic conductivity of three sources each of shortleaf, loblolly and longleaf pine seedlings were evaluated for 28 days in a seedling growth system that simulated the planting environment. Across species, an increase in root-zone temperature alleviated limitations to root growth caused by water stress. In the coldest temperature, longleaf pine maintained a higher hydraulic conductivity compared to shortleaf and loblolly pine. Without water limitation, the root growth and hydraulic conductivity of shortleaf and loblolly pine were superior to that of longleaf pine, but as water availability decreased, the root growth of longleaf pine surpassed that of loblolly pine. Hydraulic conductivities of the seed sources differed, and differences were attributed to either new root growth, or an increase in the efficiency of the root system to transport water.
‘Exact’ Hartree-Fock calculations for atomic-hydrogen crystal

Abstract Preliminary ‘exact’ Hartree-Fock calculations are presented for a simple-cubic atomic-hydrogen crystal. Two types of basis orbitals have been considered. Orbital parameters and lattice spacing have been roughly optimized. The Fermi surface is found to be nearly spherical. It is made plausible that the Hartree-Fock limit has been nearly reached.
Strangeness at the Gates: The Peculiar Politics of American Immigration

Selecting by Origin: Ethnic Migration in the Liberal State. By Christian Joppke. Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 2005 Impossible Subjects: Illegal Aliens and the Making of Modern America. By Mae Ngai. Princeton: Princeton University Press, 2004 Dividing Lines: The Politics of Immigration Control in America. By Daniel Tichenor. Princeton: Princeton University Press, 2002.
Venus O + pickup ions: Collected PVO results and expectations for Venus Express

Abstract Observations of oxygen pickup ions by the plasma analyzer on the Pioneer Venus Orbiter (PVO) Mission arguably launched broad interest in solar wind erosion of unmagnetized planet atmospheres, and its potential evolutionary effects. Oxygen pickup ions may play key roles in the removal of the oxygen excess left behind from the photodissociation of water vapor by enabling direct escape, additional sputtering of oxygen when they impact the exobase, and escape as energetic neutrals produced in charge exchange reactions with the ambient exospheric oxygen and hydrogen. Although the PVO observations were compromised by an ∼8 keV energy limit for O + detection, a lack of ion composition capability, and the limited sampling and data rate of the plasma analyzer which was designed for solar wind monitoring, these measurements provide our best information about the extended O + exosphere and wake at Venus. Here we show the full picture of the spatial distribution and energies of the O + ion observations collected by the plasma analyzer during PVO's ∼5000 orbit tour. A model of O + test particles launched in the circum-Venus fields described by an MHD simulation of the solar wind interaction is used to help interpret the PVO observations and to anticipate the expanded view of Venus O + escape that will be provided by the ASPERA-4 experiment on Venus Express.
Development of the Intestinal SGLT1 Transporter in Rats

Glucose absorption from the small intestine is largely mediated via the sodium-coupled glucose transporter (SGLT1). The goal of this study was to investigate the ontogenesis of the SGLT1, using the rat as an animal model at three stages of development: during lactation, at weaning, and at physiologic maturity. The techniques involved upper small intestinal perfusions with solutions containing 200 mM glucose and 50 mM NaCl, with or without 1 mM phloridzin (Phl), as an inhibitor of SGLT1. Molecular expression of the SGLT1 was also investigated via Western blot analysis from intestinal specimens of the three growth periods. Glucose absorption in weanling rats, in the absence of Phl, was several times higher than in sucklings and approximately double that of mature animals, and the effects of Phl were the greatest in weanlings. Furthermore, the physiologic data correlate to the molecular analysis of the SGLT1 which showed an increase in expression of the SGLT1 in both the weanlings and the adults compared to the sucklings. At all three stages of development Phl abolished Na absorption, and in sucklings there was a net outflow of Na. Due to the coupling between Na and water transport, net water absorption and the influx/efflux ratio, a more sensitive indicator of changes in unidirectional fluid movement, were similarly affected by Phl at the three stages of development. Net water absorption was highest in weanling animals. These findings are consistent with an early development of SGLT1 in rat small intestine and an apparent burst of activity at weaning. Less than complete maturity of other absorptive mechansims is occurring at this time.
The protective role of prosaposin and its receptors in the nervous system

Prosaposin (also known as SGP-1) is an intriguing multifunctional protein that plays roles both intracellularly, as a regulator of lysosomal enzyme function, and extracellularly, as a secreted factor with neuroprotective and glioprotective effects. Following secretion, prosaposin can undergo endocytosis via an interaction with the low-density lipoprotein-related receptor 1 (LRP1). The ability of secreted prosaposin to promote protective effects in the nervous system is known to involve activation of G proteins, and the orphan G protein-coupled receptors GPR37 and GPR37L1 have recently been shown to mediate signaling induced by both prosaposin and a fragment of prosaposin known as prosaptide. In this review, we describe recent advances in our understanding of prosaposin, its receptors and their importance in the nervous system.
The geochemistry of the stable isotopes of silicon

One hundred thirty two new measurements of the relative abundances of the stable isotopes of silicon in terrestrial materials are presented. The total variation of δ30Si found is 6.2%., centered on the mean of terrestrial mafic and ultramafic igneous rocks, δ30Si = −0.4%.. Igneous rocks show limited (1.1%.) variation; coexisting minerals exhibit small, systematic silicon isotopic fractionations that are roughly 13 the magnitude of concomitant oxygen isotopic fractionations at 1150°C. In both igneous minerals and rocks, δ30Si shows a positive correlation with silicon content, as does δ18O. Opal from both sponge spicules and sinters is light, with \gd30Si = −2.3 and −1.4%., respectively. Large δ30Si values of both positive and negative sign are reported for the first time from clay minerals (−2.3 to +1.8%.), opaline phytoliths (−1.4 to +2.8%.), and authigenic quartz (+ 1.4%.). All highly fractionated samples were precipitated from solution at low temperatures; however, aqueous silicon is not measurably fractionated relative to quartz at equilibrium. A kinetic isotope fractionation of ≈3.5%. is postulated to occur during the low temperature precipitation of opal and, possibly, poorly ordered phyllosilicates, with the silicate phase being enriched in 28Si. This fractionation, coupled with a Rayleigh precipitation model, is capable of explaining most non-magmatic δ30Si variations. Chert δ30Si values are largely inherited, but the primary opal δ30Si values can be modified by isotopic equilibration of silicate silicon and dissolved silicon during the transformation of opal into quartz.
Construction and Test of 7-T/68-mm Cold-Bore Multiwidth No-Insulation GdBCO Magnet

As a sequel to our previous report on the key concept of the multiwidth (MW) no-insulation (NI) winding technique that applies the NI technique to a magnet assembly of double-pancake (DP) coils wound with varying tape widths (thus MW), this paper presents construction and test results of a 7-T/68-mm cold-bore MW-NI GdBCO magnet. A total of 13 DP coils were fabricated: five central DP coils were wound with 4.1-mm wide tape, while each of the remaining four pairs of DP coils, axially symmetric to the midplane, was wound, from center to end, with 5.1-, 6.1-, 7.1-, and 8.1-mm wide tapes. Each DP coil was tested in a bath of liquid nitrogen (LN2) at 77 K, to obtain its critical current and characteristic resistance. After stacking, the 13-DP magnet was tested in LN2 at 77 K. The key focuses of this paper are: 1) winding and testing of MW-NI DP coils; 2) DP–DP joints; 3) charging response of the magnet; 4) spatial field distribution; and 5) self-protecting feature in overcurrent operation.
Understanding the Antecedents of Perceived Value of Registered Traveler Biometric Systems

An increased need for air travel security paralleled by recent advances in biometric authentication facilitated the deployment of biometric authentication systems in travel. Applications such as registered traveler biometric systems allow registered travelers to obtain certain benefits (i.e., time savings, convenience), while increasing air travel security. This study develops and validates empirically a conceptual model, in which perceived value of registered traveler biometric systems (monetary and symbolic) is impacted by travelers' trust in the organizations deploying biometric systems, their technology anxiety, and their need for interaction with service staff. This study concludes with several theoretical and practical implications.
Printer optimization for Lenticular screening

Digital Halftoning refers to any process used to convert continuous-tone images into an arrangement of black and white pixels, creating the illusion of a continuous-tone image. Lenticular screening is the process of multiplexing multiple images together column-wise into a single image which is then printed onto the flat side of a lenticular lens array such that from a given angle only one of the component images is visible. Lenticular screening presents a unique challenge to digital halftoning as a new generation of halftoning algorithms are needed in order to reduce the errors in lenticular prints caused by both lack of correlation between neighboring pixels and printer distortion. In this paper, we have addressed the issue of printer distortion, attempting to reduce error in lenticular prints by achieving a higher level of control over the printer being used for the print. We took into account the influence of a printed pixel on the resulting gray-level of surrounding pixels, adjusting printer resolution to account for dot overlap from various channels in order to reduce blurring within prints.
Recording of visual-evoked potentials in dogs with scalp electrodes.

Following unsuccessful attempts to record visual-evoked potentials (VEPs) in dogs with scalp electrodes, adoption of a new stimulation technique seems to be beneficial. Previously, flashes of white light administered after dark adaptation induced relatively high amplitude electroretinograms (ERGs) covering any VEP activity over the surface of the skull. ERG amplitude, however, can be significantly reduced using flashes of red light after light adaptation (mostly cone stimulation). Simultaneous ERG and VEP recording allows identification of VEPs composed of three significantly different negative peaks (N1, N2, and N3) measured in dogs anesthetized with chloralose and halothane. No more than two of the three peaS:s were seen in one recording. Only the N1 and N3 waves were consistently recorded in dogs anesthetized with thiopental and thiopental combined with halothane. In 0% of all recordings, N1 was seen alone. The other VEPs consisted of N1 and N2, or N1 and N3 occurring concurrently. The simultaneous occurrence of N2 and N3 waves, however, was never seen. Among all recordings, N1 was most frequently recorded (85% of measurements), followed by N3 and N2 (38% and 31% of measurements, respectively). Peaks of less than 90 ms are highly reproducible. Anesthesia is necessary to eliminate frequent artifacts obtained in conscious and sedated dogs. Thiopental and/or halothane had no effect on measured latencies compared with chloralose.
Comparison of field-aligned currents at ionospheric and magnetospheric altitudes

Using the empirical terrestrial magnetospheric magnetic field models of Tsyganenko and Usmanov (1982) and Tsyganenko (1987) the average field-aligned currents (FACs) in the magnetosphere were determined as a function of the Kp index. Three major model FAC systems were identified, namely, the dayside region 1, the nightside region 1, and the nightside polar cap. The models provide information about the sources of the current systems. Mapped ionospheric model FACs are compared with low-altitude measurements obtained by the spacecraft. It is found that low-altitude data can reveal either classic region 1/2 or more highly structured FAC patterns. Therefore, statistical results either obtained from observations or inferred from models are expected to be averages over temporally and spatially shifting patterns.
Optimal imaging strategy for community-acquired Staphylococcus aureus musculoskeletal infections in children

Invasive musculoskeletal infections from community-acquired methicillin-resistant and methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (CA-SA) are increasingly encountered in children. Imaging is frequently requested in these children for diagnosis and planning of therapeutic interventions. To appraise the diagnostic efficacy of imaging practices performed for CA-SA osteomyelitis and its complications. A retrospective review was conducted of the clinical charts and imaging studies of CA-SA osteomyelitis cases since 2001 at a large children’s hospital. Of 199 children diagnosed with CA-SA osteomyelitis, 160 underwent MRI examination and 35 underwent bone scintigraphy. The sensitivity of MRI and bone scintigraphy for CA-SA osteomyelitis was 98% and 53%, respectively. In all discordant cases, MRI was correct compared to bone scintigraphy. Extraosseous complications of CA-SA osteomyelitis detected only by MRI included subperiosteal abscesses (n = 77), pyomyositis (n = 43), septic arthritis (n = 31), and deep venous thrombosis (n = 12). MRI is the preferred imaging modality for the investigation of pediatric CA-SA musculoskeletal infection because it offers superior sensitivity for osteomyelitis compared to bone scintigraphy and detects extraosseous complications that occur in a substantial proportion of patients.
Harmonics Required in Main Field and Secular Variation Models

I show that for varying dipole sources in the core, the mean-square value over the surface of the Earth of the main field falls off more rapidly with the spherical harmonic degree, n, than does the corresponding factor for the secular variation field. The same general conclusion was reached in a 1974 study by F. J. Lowes from a consideration of the observed westward drift in the field and from consideration of known spherical harmonic coefficients. This means that a higher degree secular variation model is required than for a main field model for equally good representation of both fields. If the only use of the secular variation model is for updating a main field model in predictive modeling, then the secular variation model should be carried to the same degree as the corresponding main field model if possible. This has not usually been done because of the difficulty in obtaining adequate secular variation data. Satellite data may help, but variable fields from external sources, which are not considered as part of the secular variation field, limit their use in secular variation models.The use of a secular variation model in studying mantle conductivity or dynamo theory may require a higher degree model than for the corresponding main field model in order to obtain details of the secular variation that may be critical to relevant theories.
The type a behavior pattern, sex differences, and cardiovascular response to and recovery from stress

Sixty-one subjects performed a Stroop Color-Word Interference task, a mental arithmetic task (serial subtraction of 7s), and a shock avoidance task (repeating digits backward while expecting to be shocked for mistakes). Systolic and diastolic blood pressure and pulse rate were recorded while subjects anticipated, undertook, and recovered from the shock avoidance task, and undertook and recovered from the Stroop and mental arithmetic tasks. The results revealed that, compared to Type B subjects, Type A subjects manifested higher diastolic blood pressure during the Stroop and shock avoidance tasks and higher pulse rate following the mental arithmetic and shock avoidance tasks. No significant interactions were found between sex and A/B Type. The results are congruent with the notion that greater sympathetic nervous system activity among Type A individuals, both men and women, contributes to greater coronary atherosclerosis and heart disease in this group.
Prognostic value of the 6 min walk test in bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome

Bronchiolitis Obliterans Syndrome (BOS) complicates the course of many lung transplant recipients. It carries significant risk of morbidity and mortality, but its course is difficult to characterize. We evaluated the prognostic utility of the 6min walk test (6MWT) obtained after the onset of BOS in 42 patients. This was compared to the prognostic significance of changes in the FEV(1). The median time between the onset of BOS and the 6MWT was 109 days. The median decline in the FEV(1) from baseline to BOS onset was 25.7%, while the median change over the ensuing 3 months was 12.5%. Neither of these was predictive of subsequent mortality. The 6MWT yielded averages in the resting saturation, lowest saturation, distance walked and maximal Borg scores of 97%, 90.2%, 323m and 2.35, respectively. The best of these parameters in discriminating survival was the distance. Patients who walked further than 330m had a median survival of 1178 days versus 263 days for those who walked less (p<0.0001). We conclude that the 6MWT provides important prognostic information in patients with BOS and might perform better than spirometry. Use of this test might allow different clinical phenotypes to be discerned.
Neural regulation of corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) and CRH receptor mRNA in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus in the rat

The role of afferent innervation to the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) on CRH mRNA and CRH receptor mRNA levels was studied in control and stressed rats. Groups of rats were subjected to unilateral transection of the stria terminalis (ST), the medial forebrain bundle at the rostral hypothalamic level (RMFB), or the lower brainstem through the medulla oblongata between the obex and the locus coeruleus (CBs). Twelve days after surgery, each group of rats was further divided into controls (basal conditions) and stressed (1 h immobilization), before collecting brains for mRNA analysis by in situ hybridization histochemistry. While ST and RMFB cuts had no effect on basal CRH mRNA levels in the PVN, CBs cut decreased CRH mRNA in the PVN ipsilaterally to the knife cut but it was without effect on the contralateral side (-40% and -37% vs contralateral and sham-operated, respectively, P < 0.01). Acute stress (rats were killed 3 h after immobilization) increased CRH mRNA levels by about 30% bilaterally, an effect which was unchanged by any of the three hemisections. Under basal conditions, CRH receptor mRNA levels in the PVN were indistinguishable from the surrounding areas in sham-operated controls, ST and RMFB operated rats. However, brainstem hemisection resulted in clear expression of CRH receptor mRNA in areas consistent with the dorsal, medial-ventral and lateral parvicellular subdivisions of the PVN, ipsilateral to the transection. CRH neurons in these subdivisions project to the lower brainstem and the spinal cord. Expression of CRH receptor mRNA in the medial-dorsal and anterior parvicellular divisions (CRH neurons with median eminence projections) was not affected by CBs cut. In these subdivisions, immobilization stress markedly increased CRH receptor mRNA levels but it did not influence CBs cut-induced CRH receptor expression. ST and RMFB hemisections were without effect on PVN CRH receptor mRNA levels under basal or stress conditions. Oxytocin (OT) and vasopressin (VP) mRNA levels in the magnocellular subdivision of the PVN were unchanged after immobilization, or following ST, RMFB or CBs cuts, whereas OT mRNA in the medial-ventral and caudal parvicellular subdivisions was decreased by 52% after CBs cut. The data demonstrate that: 1) basal CRH mRNA levels in the PVN are under tonic stimulatory influence of the lower brainstem (and/or spinal cord) afferents; 2) CRH receptor mRNA expression in PVN subdivisions (pituitary vs lower brainstem/spinal cord projecting neurons) is under different control mechanisms, and 3) immobilization-induced changes in CRH mRNA and CRH receptor mRNA levels are mediated either by neural inputs from brain areas other than those investigated here, or by humoral factors.
Ground state and low-lying exitations of a Heisenberg ferromagnet containing an antiferromagnetically coupled impurity

We consider a simple Heisenberg ferromagnet containing an antiferromagnetically coupled substitutional impurity. The exact ground state is calculated for an impurity of spin 12. The low temperature magnetisation of the impurity is found in the spin-wave approximation and a correction calculated.
Manganese Encrustation of Zygospores of a Chlamydomonas (Chlorophyta: Volvocales)

In media containing normal trace-element supplements, but not in manganese-deficient media, zygospores of a new species of Chlamydomonas (isolated from soil) become encrusted with a dark brown mineral coating. Staining with benzidine indicates that the encrustation is rich in manganese. This has been confirmed by x-ray analysis in combination with a scanning electron microscope.
Evidence for spatial variability in hydraulic redistribution within an oak–pine forest from resistivity imaging

Summary Electrical resistivity imaging (ERI) was used to determine spatiotemporal resistivity changes in the vadose root zone of an oak–pine forest during an 8-day period of drying following a rainfall event. Electrical images from 0 to 2 m depth, incorporating the shallow root zone, were inferred to represent spatiotemporal variability of moisture between tree and non-tree areas resulting from hydraulic redistribution (HR). Electrical resistance measurements on a grid of 96 electrodes were collected, six times a day, from July 2nd to July 10th, 2009. Images were produced from a 3-D inversion of resistance measurements that were assigned weights based on error models that accounted for both measurement (reciprocal) and modeling errors. To account for temperature variations, a sinusoidal diurnal temperature correction based on the 1-D heat conduction equation and measurements at 5 cm depth was applied to the resistivity results. Laboratory measurements of resistivity as a function of moisture content for samples from the site obeyed Archie’s Law, suggesting that electrolytic conduction is the dominant current pathway in these soils. Spatiotemporal variability in moisture dynamics due to root zone processes was therefore inferred from spatial variation in changes of electrical conductivity over time. Electrical conductivity depth profiles were generated for tree versus non-tree locations using conductivities from corresponding finite element mesh voxel coordinates. These profiles reveal a stable temporal profile beneath trees relative to a pronounced decrease in electrical conductivity over time at non-tree locations. Relative changes in electrical conductivity between 6 am and 6 pm surveys revealed that both tree and non-tree locations are more conductive at 6 am, although changes are greater at tree locations. This finding is likely diagnostic of hydraulic lift (HL) overnight by tree roots. Regardless of location, the differences between 6 am and 6 pm surveys are consistent with HR, impacting moisture content across the entire survey area.
Speed regulation in 3D robotic walking through motion transitions between Human-Inspired partial hybrid zero dynamics

This paper employs the Human-Inspired Control framework in the formal design, optimization and implementation of controllers for 3D bipedal robotic walking. In this framework, controllers drive the robot to a low-dimensional representation, termed the partial hybrid zero dynamics, which is shaped by the parameters of the outputs describing human locomotion data. The main result of this paper is the use of partial hybrid zero dynamics in an optimization problem to compute physical constraints on the robot, without integrating the dynamics of the system, and while simultaneously yielding provably stable walking controllers for a 3D robot model. Controllers corresponding to various walking speeds are obtained through a second speed regulation optimization, and formal methods are presented which provide smooth transitions between walking speeds. These formal results are demonstrated through simulation and utilized to obtain 3D walking experimentally with the NAO robot.
Structural density assays of leporid skeletal elements with implications for taphonomic, actualistic and archaeological research

Abstract Structural density assays of standardized bone scan sites are provided from six skeletons of four leporid taxa, including European or domestic rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus), Eastern cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus), snowshoe hare (Lepus canadensis) and black-tailed jackrabbit (Lepus californicus). The results are discussed via comparison to published density figures for roughly similar-sized North American marmots (Marmotaspp.). In the absence of reliable leporid density assays, archaeologists have substituted these figures as appropriate proxy measures. However, the data indicate important differences between leporid and marmot structural density assays, which can be considered as the expression of underlying anatomical dissimilarities. The implications of these results for assessing predator accumulation through application to published taphonomic and actualistic studies of leporid remains undertaken primarily in the Great Basin of the western United States, and for analyses of faunal assemblages in the American Southwest, are explored.
First-principles calculation of the superconducting transition in MgB 2 within the anisotropic Eliashberg formalism

We present a study of the superconducting transition in ${\mathrm{MgB}}_{2}$ using the ab initio pseudopotential density-functional method, a fully anisotropic Eliashberg equation, and a conventional estimate for ${\ensuremath{\mu}}^{*}.$ Our study shows that the anisotropic Eliashberg equation, constructed with ab initio calculated momentum-dependent electron-phonon interaction and anharmonic phonon frequencies, yields an average electron-phonon coupling constant $\ensuremath{\lambda}=0.61,$ a transition temperature ${T}_{c}=39 \mathrm{K},$ and a boron isotope-effect exponent ${\ensuremath{\alpha}}_{\mathrm{B}}=0.32.$ The calculated values for ${T}_{c},$ $\ensuremath{\lambda},$ and ${\ensuremath{\alpha}}_{\mathrm{B}}$ are in excellent agreement with transport, specific-heat, and isotope-effect measurements, respectively. The individual values of the electron-phonon coupling $\ensuremath{\lambda}(\stackrel{\ensuremath{\rightarrow}}{k},{k}^{\ensuremath{'}})$ on the various pieces of the Fermi surface, however, vary from 0.1 to 2.5. The observed ${T}_{c}$ is a result of both the raising effect of anisotropy in the electron-phonon couplings and the lowering effect of anharmonicity in the relevant phonon modes.
Selective fiber vulnerability in acute ischemic neuropathy

To study the relationship between fiber size and vulnerability to ischemia, we produced partial infarction of the proximal posterior tibial nerve of Wistar rats by injecting arachidonic acid into the ipsilateral femoral artery. In the resulting lesion degenerating fibers were concentrated in the center of the nerve. Distal to the infarct, surviving myelinated and unmyelinated fibers were evenly distributed throughout both fascicles. Smaller myelinated fibers (less than 6 micrometers in diameter) were more severely depleted than larger ones ( greater than 6 micrometer). Unmyelinated fibers were reduced in number in proportion to or to a greater extent than myelinated fibers. These findings demonstrate that large myelinated fibers are relatively less vulnerable to peripheral nerve ischemia than smaller fibers, and do not support the contention that unmyelinated fibers are inherently resistant to acute ischemia.
In vitro killing of penicillin-suseceptible, -intermediate, and -resistant strains of streptococcus pneumoniae by cefotaxime, ceftriaxone, and ceftizoxime: A comparison of bactericidal and inhibitory activity with achievable CSF levels

This study assessed total microbial killing of 30 penicillin-susceptible, -intermediate, and -resistant strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae by cefotaxime, ceftriaxone, and ceftizoxime and compared these values with MICs for each strain against each agent as determined by three different methods/media. The results confirm the appropriateness of recent NCCLS recommendations for MIC interpretive criteria for third generation cephalosporins in which or = 2.0 micrograms/ml = resistant when these agents are used to treat pneumococcal meningitis and data from total microbial killing studies suggests that most isolates with MICs of 0.5 and 1.0 mcg/ml would respond to high dose therapy with all three agents. The study also confirmed the recently described two- to four-fold decrease in activity of ceftizoxime against S. pneumoniae as compared with either cefotaxime or ceftriaxone; but noted that current NCCLS MIC interpretive criteria for the therapy of meningitis remain valid for all three agents. Finally, the study found that MICs determined by the E test or by microdilution broth methods using supplemented Todd Hewitt broth predict susceptibility as well as the NCCLS reference method. The actual selection among these agents for the therapy of pneumococcal meningitis should also consider other parameters including protein binding, age groups of clinical use, maximum potency against all clinically relevant pathogens, and cost.
A novel ring expansion of 1-carboethoxy-1,1-trimethylene-3-diazo-2-propanone

Abstract The title compound undergoes an unusual thermal cyclobutyl to cyclopentyl rearrangement initiated by the intramolecular reaction of a ketene moiety produced in situ with the pendant functionality.
3B55: A repetitious sequence family which is transcribed and proportionately replicated in germ-line polyploid nuclei of Calliphora erythrocephala ☆

Abstract The chromosomes of dipteran polyploid nurse cell nuclei are functionally analogous to the oocyte lampbrush chromosomes of the Amphibia. In investigating the transcriptional and replicative activity of these nuclei in Calliphora erythrocephala we have identified a cloned highly repetitious DNA fragment which shows enhanced transcriptional activity in these cells and different replicative behavior in these germ-line polyploid nuclei as opposed to somatic polytene nuclei. The clone, 3B55, contains a 6.8-kb insert which consists primarily of tandemly repeated 200-bp sequences defined by Rsa I sites. From Southern hybridizations to diploid (embryonic) genomic DNA, 3B55-related DNA was calculated to represent a significant fraction of the haploid genome (0.8% or 5000 kb). In situ hybridizations established that these sequences are present in the pericentric regions of four of the six chromosomes. Thus the 3B55 sequences have the properties of a satellite-type DNA family. Quantitation of the 3B55 200-bp monomer (which represents ∼60% of the genomic 3B55 DNA sequences in all tissues examined) revealed that in somatic polytene salivary gland nuclei, 3B55 DNA is highly under-replicated to give a monomer representation of only 48 ± 11 kb per haploid genome. However, in germ-line nurse cell nuclei, 3B55 DNA is proportionately replicated to give a monomer genomic representation (3560 ± 344 kb) equivalent to that of diploid DNA (3011 ± 202 kb). Transcripts complementary to 3B55 sequences are at least 25 times more abundant in total nurse cell nuclear RNA than in total embryonic nuclear RNA. These findings suggest an association of the 3B55 sequence family with some germ-line specific function.
Amalgamation waltz: Race, performance, and the ruses of memory, by Tavia Nyong

Amalgamation waltz: Race, performance, and the ruses of memory, by Tavia Nyong’o, Minneapolis, London, University of Minnesota Press, 2009, 248 pp. US$67.50 (cloth), 22.50 (paper), ISBN: 978-0-8166...
Error Analysis of p-Version Discontinuous Galerkin Method for Heat Transfer in Built-up Structures

The purpose of this paper is to provide an error analysis for the p-version of the discontinuous Galerkin finite element method for heat transfer in built-up structures. As a special case of the results in this paper, a theoretical error estimate for the numerical experiments recently conducted by James Tomey is obtained.
Singlet Series in the Spark Spectrum of Aluminium

PROF. PASCHEN'S beautiful work on the spark spectra of aluminium has revealed in the case of the singly ionised atom (Al+), a very complete system of triplets (Annalen der Physik, 71, 537–561, 1923) analogous to that which appears in the arc spectrum of magnesium. A number of the strongest lines, however, do not find a place in this system, and are obviously members of a system of single lines, like that which exists in the arc spectra of magnesium, calcium, etc.; but he presents no arrangement of these in series.
The space exploration initiative Perspective from the US space science community

Abstract As NASA struggles to fund and execute its ambitious Space Station Freedom and Mission to Planet Earth programmes, President Bush has pledge the nation to a programme to return humans to the Moon to stay and to explore Mars. While not predicted on scientific grounds, this Space Exploration Initiative welcomes the support and participation of the scientific community. Success in establishing this relationship will depend on how the initiative is structured, sold and managed within the context of scientists' past experience with large, manned flight programmes.
New evidence of Baltic-Adriatic amber trade

(1976). New evidence of Baltic-Adriatic amber trade. Journal of Baltic Studies: Vol. 7, No. 4, pp. 330-342.
Electron transfer reaction of cytochrome c peroxidase at tin oxide electrodes.

Summary The unmediated one-electron reduction and reoxidation of ferric cytochrome c peroxidase at fluoride-doped tin oxide electrodes is reported. A long range interfacial electron transfer distance of 17A is postulated by analogy to the Poulos/Kraut model for the cytochrome c peroxidase/cytochrome c electron transfer complex. The utility of the interfacial electrochemical approach for investigating cytochrome c peroxidase electron transfer behavior is discussed.
Estimation of Light Time Effects for Close Binaries in Triple Systems

We discuss implementation of light time effects in a general binary star program that solves for third body orbit parameters and binary star parameters together. The program combines radial velocities and light curves within a coherent analysis and can use data that are very unevenly distributed over time. By analyzing whole curves, the program has access to more information than only from eclipse timings. Results for λ Tau and VV Ori are shown.