cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Drug Abuse Effects on the Reticuloendothelial and Immune Systems

Numerous references can be found in the literature concerning drugs that have immunosuppressive properties. Some of these substances are frequently abused, and have significant effects on bodily functions. There is an increased frequency of certain types of infections associated with the use and abuse of these drugs. It follows that the action of these substances could be through their effects on the immune system. Before attempting to discuss the drugs and substances that have immunosuppressive properties and are frequently abused, it is necessary to define what is meant by immunosuppressive. The latter can be defined as “substances depressing immune responses.” This definition has considerable merit because of its simplicity. However, one problem with measuring immunosuppression is that there are various “arms” of the immune system, and immunosuppressive agents may suppress one or more types of immune reactions. It may be more correct to define immunosuppressive as any substance that inhibits at least one type of immune response.
Simulations of thermoelastic triangular cell lattices with bonded joints by finite element analysis

Abstract Thermoelastic triangular cell lattices composed of bi-material curved ribs were designed and analyzed by finite element simulation. Positive, negative, or zero thermal expansion was possible by varying rib curvature if joints can pivot freely, as expected. Welded or bonded joints result in nonzero expansion but smaller in magnitude than that of a constituent material having higher thermal expansion coefficient. The effects of rib curvature variation for bonded joints were found to be negligible. Rib slenderness for both joints did not influence the coefficient of thermal expansion. We present a square lattice with bonded joints that has zero net thermal expansion; each curved bi-material rib has zero expansion.
Origin of mechanical stress and rising internal energy during fast uniaxial extension of SBR melts

We carry out simultaneous mechanical and IR-thermal-imaging based temperature measurements of SBR melts during uniaxial extension in order to delineate the nature of the observed mechanical responses. Using the first law of thermodynamics, we evaluate the enthalpy change h_1 associated with the temperature rise in the extending melt, estimate the heat loss to the surrounding, and conclude that there is an appreciable non-thermal enthalpic buildup h_2 = (w – h_1 − q) during either adiabatic or isothermal extension. The monotonic increase of h_2 with the stretching ratio λ until the onset of inhomogeneous extension or melt rupture reveals that fast melt extension is largely elastic even after yielding in presence of partial chain disentanglement. At high rates, the lock-up of chain entanglement produces such a high level of h_2 that is rarely seen in extension of crosslinked rubbers. When melt extension is carried out under isothermal condition, we show that the time-temperature superposition principle (TTS) fails to predict the transient response of a SBR melt at a fixed effective rate involving three temperatures. The failure of the TTS suggests that the terminal chain dynamics show different temperature dependence from the local segmental dynamics that control the transient stress responses.
ALTERATIONS IN ADRENERGIC RESPONSES AFTER TREATMENT OF RATS WITH DESMETHYLIMIPRAMINE (DMI)

ABSTRACT Pretreatment of the animals with EMI reduced the activation of cardiac phosphorylase caused by isoproterenol, but did not decrease either the positive inotropic effect or the elevation of cyclic AMP produced by the amine. Chronic injections of DMI did not diminish the glucagon-induced increase in heart phosphorylase a , cyclic AMP or force of contraction. In rat diaphragm, the stimulation of phosphorylase a activity by catecholamines was unaffected by prior treatment of the rats with DMI.
The generation of B-cell memory: a working hypothesis.

The process by which secondary B cells are generated has intrigued immunologists for several decades. This is particularly true since appropriate antigenic stimulation leads both to a selective increase in the frequency of B cells responsive to the immunizing antigen and to the generation of a population of cells (secondary B cells) that are phenotypically and functionally distinct from primary B cells specific for the same antigen.
Growth mixture models of adaptive behavior in adolescents with autism spectrum disorder.

This study examined growth trajectories of teacher-reported adaptive behavior in a diverse sample of adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. The participants were 244 adolescents between the age...
Indirect decompression of lumbar stenosis

Abstract Degenerative lumbar stenosis can lead to symptoms of neurogenic claudication and lumbar radiculopathy. Lumbar stenosis can be caused by static compression of the neural elements in the central canal, along the lateral recess, and in the neuroforamen, as well as by dynamic changes to the total area of the central canal and neuroforamen. Previously, surgical options for the treatment of degenerative lumbar stenosis were primarily based on direct posterior open decompressions and fusions. However, novel techniques of indirect decompression have now been developed that restore disc height to increase the area of the central canal and neuroforamen and address the dynamic aspect of stenosis, while avoiding the extensive soft tissue injury involved in posterior open decompressions and fusions. Interbody fusions and interspinous devices are two methods of indirect decompression that are being commonly used. In this study, we provide a broad overview of the advantages, disadvantages, indications, evidence, and complications of ALIF, LLIF, and OLIF, as well as interspinous devices including Coflex. Though there is limited comparative evidence demonstrating that one approach is superior to another in terms of clinical and radiographic outcomes, evidence does show that interbody techniques are effective at treating lumbar stenosis by increasing the total area of the central canal and neuroforamen while having high fusion rates. Though the newer generation of interspinous devices have lower failure rates than their predecessors, they still are not comparable to the interbody devices in terms of long term outcomes. The optimal approach for the indirect treatment of lumbar stenosis therefore depends on multiple variables, including but not limited to the spinal level of disease, the anatomy of the individual patient, the pathology being treated, and the familiarity of the surgeon.
What is optimal in optimal inference

Inferring hidden structure from noisy observations is a problem addressed by Bayesian statistical learning, which aims to identify optimal models of the process that generated the observations given assumptions that constrain the space of potential solutions. Animals and machines face similar "model-selection" problems to infer latent properties and predict future states of the world. Here we review recent attempts to explain how intelligent agents address these challenges and how their solutions relate to Bayesian principles. We focus on how constraints on available information and resources affect inference and propose a general framework that uses benefit(accuracy) and accuracy(cost) curves to assess optimality under these constraints.
Today's Graduate Students, Tomorrow's SLPs: Enhancing School Practicum Experiences

Purpose In this article, we describe a standards-driven, workforce-focused model of school practicum offered by an accredited graduate speech-language pathology program. Method To prepare more than...
Mobilising cross-sector collaborations to improve population health in US rural communities: a qualitative study.

Objectives This study examines types and forms of cross-sector collaborations employed by rural communities to address community health issues and identifies factors facilitating or inhibiting such collaborations. Setting We conducted case studies of four rural communities in the US state of Iowa that have demonstrated progress in creating healthier communities. Participants Key informants from local public health departments, hospitals and other health-promoting organisations and groups participated in this study. Twenty-two key-informant interviews were conducted. Participants were selected based on their organisation’s involvement in community health initiatives. Results Rural communities used different forms of collaborations, including cross-sector partnership, cross-sector interaction and cross-sector exploration, to address community health issues. Stakeholders from public health, healthcare, social services, education and business sectors were involved. Factors facilitating cross-sector collaborations include health-promoting local contexts, seed initiatives that mobilise communities, hospital visions that embrace broad views of health and shared collaboration leadership and governance. Challenges to developing and sustaining cross-sector collaborations include different institutional logics, financial and human resources constraints and geographic dispersion. Conclusions Rural communities use cross-sector collaborations to address community health issues in the forms of interaction and exploration, but real and lasting partnerships are rare. The development, operation and sustainment of cross-sector collaborations are influenced by a set of contextual and practical factors. Practical strategies and policy interventions may be used to enhance cross-sector collaborations in rural communities.
Endoscopic ultrasound may be used to deliver gene expression signatures using digital mRNA detection methods to immunophenotype pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma to facilitate personalized immunotherapy

Abstract Background & objectives Biomarkers are increasingly required to molecularly characterize pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) subgroup populations, to determine who may benefit from immune based targeted therapy. We evaluated the feasibility of gene expression signature detection and the respective landscape of specific tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), cancer/testis (CT) antigens, and immune checkpoints for possible future personalized immunotherapy eligibility. Methods Dedicated digital mRNA oncologic immune profiling of 770 genes using a Nanostring nCounter® PanCancer Immune Profiling Panel was performed using archived endoscopic ultrasound fine needle biopsy (EUS FNB) PDAC specimens as a case series in a tertiary care setting. Results The spectrum of mRNA gene expression within the tumor specimens revealed that 44.8%, 10.0% and 50.7% of evaluated genes had a ≥ 2-fold increase, a ≤ 2-fold reduction or between 2 change of mRNA expression, when compared to normal controls. The corresponding landscape of TILs, CT antigens, and immune checkpoints highlighted several possibilities that could potentially be amenable to targeted personalized immunotherapy. This includes members of the Tumor Associated Macrophage family (CD68, CXCL5, and MARCO), members of the CT antigen family (PRAME, TTK and PBK) and the “second generation” checkpoints TIM3 and BTLA. Conclusions Our study represents the ability to successfully perform digital mRNA expression profile analyses to immunophenotype PDAC EUS FNB specimens by evaluating the expression of >730 genes within the tumor immune microenvironment. This may facilitate the search for novel therapeutic targets, offering the opportunity to go beyond immune monotherapy, but perhaps to use combined immunomodulatory agents.
Is there a productivity growth in private universities in Vietnam? Revisiting the 2005 Higher Education Reform Agenda

Since the undertaking of the reform policy, Vietnamese private higher education has made remarkable contributions to a nation's socio-economic development via providing high qualified human resources to the labour market. In integration of the world's higher education, the 2005 Higher Education Reform Agenda (HERA) has proposed an increase in private enrolments to 40% of total tertiary enrolments by 2020. Whether this target could be achievable as planned is still questionable. This paper aims to measure a productivity growth of private universities using the Malmquist productivity index and examine if they can obtain the target of the 2005 HERA. The findings indicate that private universities have regression in productivity at 8%. The main source of this regression results from a decline of technological innovation at 14%. Private universities could potentially fail to obtain the target of the 2005 HERA. Policy implications are suggested for enhancing efficiency and productivity of private universities.
Analysis of Working Postures on the Low Back Pain Incidence in Traditional Songket Weaving Craftsmen in Ketang Manggarai Village, NTT

Background: Low back pain (LBP) is pain that is experienced in between the corners of the lower ribs to the fold of the lower buttocks, namely the lumbar-sacral area and is often accompanied by pain radiations to the legs and feet. LBP is caused by sitting for a long time in a monotonous position, causing tension on back muscles and can lead to the surrounding soft tissue damage. Traditional cloth weavers are at risk of LBP due to their activities that requiring sitting and bending positions, in a same certain position and for a long time. Analysis of appro-priate working posture can be a reference to reduce the risk of LBP. This study aims to determine working posture and its effect on the incidence of LBP and the risk level of each work attitude element of the woven fabric manufacturing activity. Subjects and Method: This was a quantitative study using a retrospective study. The subjects of this study were 40 weavers of traditional fabrics. The dependent variable was working posture. The independent variable was low back pain (LBP). LBP pain measured using the numeric rating scale (NRS) and the Quick Exposure Check (QEC) questionnaire to determine working posture. Results: There was a significant relationship between LBP and working posture (QEC level) (OR= 0.15; 95% CI= 0.03 to 0.71; p= 0.017), age (OR= 5.64; 95% CI= 1.07 to 2.96; p= 0.001), and tenure OR= 0.44; 95% CI= 0.16 to 0.85; p= 0.014). Age and tenure (hours) also influence the incidence of LBP. Conclusion: Age, working experience (length of work), and working posture have a high contribution to the incidence of Low back pain. The results of this study expected to be a reference of comfortable working posture for workers and efforts to prevent and manage low back pain. Keywords: working posture, low back pain Correspondence: Yuliana Suryati. Faculty of Health Science, Uni-versitas Katolik Indonesia Santu Paulus Ru-teng. Jl. Ahmad Yani 10 Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara. Email: syulty12@gmail.com. Mobile: 081328430358. Journal of Epidemiology and Public Health (2020), 05(04): 469-476 https://doi.org/10.26911/jepublichealth.2020.05.04.09
The Management and Oversight of Human Rights Due Diligence (preprint)

The COVID-19 pandemic showed how vulnerable workers in global supply chains are to adverse human rights impacts. Protecting such workers must be a primary policy goal in the efforts to “build back better” from the crisis, and businesses conducting human rights due diligence (HRDD) is a primary means to do so. In Europe, there is a fast-moving trend towards legislatively mandating HRDD and there is potential for similar movement in the United States. Whether HRDD will significantly improve human rights conditions, however, is an open question. Based on our experience with corporate compliance programs, it is clear that the management and oversight of HRDD is an essential factor in ensuring meaningful implementation, as opposed to corporations focusing on form over substance. This article identifies those key internal governance issues and provides advice on how best to ensure effective implementation. This article argues that for most corporations, the day-to-day management of HRDD best fits with the compliance function—not the legal function—and this new role could be part of the next step in the evolution of the compliance function. This article also discusses the role of the board of directors and how HRDD combined with recent developments in the law of fiduciary duties can push directors to engage in more rigorous oversight. In addition, this article discusses the types of information that are essential for supporting the management and oversight of HRDD.
Introduction: The issues of cost-benefit analysis

This chapter presents an introduction to the cost–benefit analysis. Cost–benefit analysis is the practitioner's art, the application of normative public sector theory to an imperfect world that does not conform to the underlying assumptions of any one theoretical model. It refers to the systematic evaluation of government investment projects as distinguished from transfer programs or consumption-oriented allocation expenditures such as judicial services. There are three principles of cost–benefit analysis: (1) the limit of analytical rigor, which reaffirms the notion that cost–benefit analysis is as much an art as a science for which reasoned judgment is every bit as important as strict analytical rigor, (2) a cost–benefit analysis of government investments proceeds exactly as the analysis of private investments undertaken by firms, and (3) cost–benefit analysis implicitly assumes a fully employed economy. It is intended primarily as an exercise in microeconomic analysis, designed to help governments select among alternative uses of scarce resources. One immediate implication of the full-employment assumption is that government investment projects not only compete directly among themselves for scarce resources but also dominate all alternative private sector uses of the same scarce resources to be deemed worthwhile.
Retail Store Image Research-A Critical Review

This paper reviews previous attempts to study retail store image. It focuses on the conceptual problems one encounters in this area. Five issues relating to the store image, namely store dimensions, image formation process, image variation in different departments, image variation in multiunit establishments and image differences among different clientele groups are examined. Different measurement tools are also contrasted. A new definition of retail store is also suggested.
Strangeness Production in Relativistic Heavy Ion Experiments

The role of Strangeness as a signal of the Quark Gluon Plasma in relativistic heavy ion experiments is discussed. The current experimental status is briefly presented. Several scenarios which explain the CERN data are discussed.
Marketing Strategy Models

A marketing model is a mathematical representation of a marketing phenomenon. Marketing strategy models are models focused on strategic marketing problems. The main purpose of a marketing strategy model is to develop tools and insights for the formulation of marketing strategies. Marketing strategy models can be classified into three types: descriptive models, normative models, and predictive models. Game theoretic models, which are based on normative behavioral assumptions, exist for analyzing competition in strategic marketing variables such as order and sequence of market entry, positioning, and defensive reactions and in strategic levels of product, price, distribution channels, and advertising. Empirical industrial organization models – models that focus on marketing strategy decisions through analysis of both demand (e.g., sales, market share) and supply (e.g., pricing strategy, marketing allocation strategy) functions – are growing in popularity. Although marketing strategy models span several areas of strategy, models on three topics, namely, new-product development and product management strategy, market entry and growth strategy, and defensive strategy, are discussed in detail in this article. More models and decision support systems are needed for marketing strategies related to international entry, allocation between product development and marketing expenditures, product portfolio analysis, and allocation across own marketing and comarketing spending. Keywords: marketing strategy; competition; marketing mix; quantitative analysis; game theory
Arm joint articulations in the ophiuran brittlestars (Echinodermata: Ophiuroidea): a morphometric analysis of ontogenetic, serial, and interspecific variation

The ophiuroid arm contains a series of vertebral ossicles that form an articulated internal skeleton. Ontogenetic, serial, and interspecific variation in these skeletal elements are investigated using morphometric data from 35 species of brittle-stars (Order Ophiurae). Multiple ossicles were sampled from each individual and several individuals were sampled from each species to reconstruct serial and ontogenetic changes in vertebral morphology. Within species, ontogenetic and serial allometries are not statistically different. These data support ‘Jackson's law of localized stages’ (Jackson, 1899; Clark, 1914), which proposes that serial variation along the arm reflects ontogenetic stages of ossicle growth. A multivariate analysis of interspecific variation shows two major vertebral forms: ossicles with a proximal depression and distal keel, and ossicles lacking these features. Variation within these groups is largely continuous, but individual species show distinct shape differences and unique allometric patterns of serial variation. These results suggest that vertebral ossicle variation among species can be described by: 1) variation in initial shape; and 2) variation in the allometric trajectory along the proximal-distal axis. In all species, the most proximal ossicles within the disk show a non-keeled morphology. In species with keeled arm ossicles, however, there is an abrupt transition within the disk between non-keeled and keeled vertebral forms. A single ossicle, having features of both vertebral types, occurs at this site. The taxonomic distribution of the two vertebral forms and the anatomical transition between forms is discussed with reference to current classification systems and recent phylogenetic schemes for the Ophiuroidea.
Boundary value problems for a two-dimensional wave equation

Abstract Consider the differential equation u tt −u xx −u yy +{ μ (x 2 +y 2 ) }u=0, (x,y,t) in S, where S={(x,y,t): t x 2 +y 2 . We will show that the above equation under the boundary condtions u(x,y,0)=0, x 2 +y 2 ⩽4, u(x,y,1)=0, x 2 +y 2 =1, t u(x,y,t)| x 2 +y 2 =t 2 = 1+t u(x,y,1−t)| x 2 y 2 =(1+t) 2 , 0⩽t⩽1, u continuous on ∂S, has eigenvalues and eigenfunctions that are orthogonal in L p 2 ( S ), where p= 1 (x 2 +y 2 ), 0 2 + y 2
Fluctuations in concentration of dissolved solids of some southwestern streams

The concentration of dissolved solids in waters of streams of the Southwestern United Stated fluctuates widely as the stream discharge changes. These fluctuations may be extensive in a period of a few days or even a few hours. Data in this paper show the extent of the day-to-day changes in specific conductance and discharge of the Rio Grande at San Acacia, New Mexico, during the spring run-off period of 1945. Data also are presented to show rapid fluctuations in concentration for the Pecos River near Artesia, New Mexico, the Gila River near Bylas, Arizona, and the Rio Grande at San Acacia during typical summer months. Hourly changes in chloride and discharge are shown for a day of approximately normal flow for the Pecos River near Malaga, New Mexico, and for a 36-hour period of extremely low flow for the Gila River near Fort Thomas, Arizona.
Blind Man’s Bluff: The Basic Belief Apologetic as Anti-skeptical Stratagem

Today we find philosophical naturalists and Christian theists both expressing an interest in virtue epistemology, while starting out from vastly different assumptions. What can be done to increase fruitful dialogue among these divergent groups of virtue-theoretic thinkers? The primary aim of this paper is to uncover more substantial common ground for dialogue by wielding a double-edged critique of certain assumptions shared by `scientific' and `theistic' externalisms, assumptions that undermine proper attention to epistemic agency and responsibility. I employ a responsibilist virtue epistemology to this end, utilizing it most extensively in critique of Alvin Plantinga’s Warranted Christian Belief (2000). Epistemological externalism presages, I also argue, a new demarcation problem, but a secondary aim of the paper is to suggest reasons to think that `responsibilist externalism,' especially as glossed in virtue-theoretic terms, provides its proponents with the ability to adequately address this problem as we find it represented in a potent thought-experiment developed by Barry Stroud.
Peritoneal drainage as primary management of perforated NEC in the very low birth weight infant

Advances in perinatal and neonatal care in the past decade have produced a change in the population of infants with perforated necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) treated at our institution: the majority are now of very low birth weight (VLBW, < 1,000 g). Peritoneal drainage has been reported as an initial resuscitative procedure for unstable infants who have complicated NEC. Initial success with peritoneal drainage prompted us to adopt an aggressive approach to its use in this patient population. Since 1987, peritoneal drainage has been the primary treatment for most infants weighing less than 1,500 g who have perforation, and for unstable infants weighing more than 1,500 g. Perforation was documented by pneumoperitoneum or aspiration of meconium by paracentesis. Intestinal resection was performed in most infants weighing more than 1,500 g and in those for whom drainage was ineffective. Twenty-nine infants with low or VLBW (mean gestational age, 27 weeks; mean birth weight, 994 g) were treated with one or two drains in the right lower quadrant. Broad spectrum antibiotics were continued until all drains were removed, usually within 10 to 14 days. Nasogastric suction was continued until patency of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract was confirmed by a nonionic upper GI series. Six (21%) infants died, although one of the deaths occurred 5 months after drainage; the patient had chronic lung disease and an intact GI tract. Seventeen of the 23 (74%) survivors required no further operative procedure, and 6 (26%) required laparotomy and resection because drainage had been ineffective. Peritoneal drainage provided definitive treatment in 18 of 29 (62%) infants in this series.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
PLEST: A Program for Area Estimation of VLSI Integrated Circuits

This paper describes PLEST, a program for estimating the area of standard cell layouts as part of the more general ARREST area estimator embedded in the ADAM system. PLEST is based on a probabilistic model for placement of logic. Given various design parameters, PLEST generates a range of estimates for the possible shapes of the block layout. The program was applied to a set of six layouts. The estimated chip area is, for all six chips, within 10% of the measured area. Further research will be aimed at estimating layout area consumption starting from the register-transfer level design description.
External threats: the dilemma of resource management on the Colorado River in Grand Canyon National park, USA

The United States Congress established Grand Canyon National Park in 1919 to preserve for posterity the outstanding natural attributes of the canyon cut by the Colorado River. In some cases National Park Service attempts to maintain Grand Canyon's natural environment have been thwarted by activities outside the park. One of the most obvious external threats is Glen Canyon Dam, only 26 km upstream from the park boundary. Constructed in 1963, this gigantic dam has greatly altered the physicochemical and biological characteristics of 446 km of the Colorado River in Grand Canyon National Park. The river's aquatic ecosystem has been greatly modified through the loss of indigenous species and the addition of numerous exotics. We consider this anexotic ecosystem. The riparian ecosystem has been less modified, with addition of a few exotics and no loss of natives—this we consider anaturalized ecosystem. The great dilemma now faced by park managers is that, after 20 years of managing resources along a river controlled by Glen Canyon Dam, the Bureau of Reclamation has proposed major changes in operational procedures for the dam. Scientists and managers from the National Park Service, Bureau of Reclamation, and cooperating federal and state resource management agencies are using a systems analysis approach to examine the impacts of various Colorado River flow regimes on aquatic, riparian, and recreational parameters in the park. This approach will help in the development of management alternatives designed to permit the most efficient use of that river's natural resources without their destruction.
Characterization of neuropeptide Y Y1-like and Y2-like receptor subtypes in the mouse brain

To characterize receptor subtypes in the mouse, we performed autoradiographic localization and pharmacological characterization studies using the selective radiolabeled agonists, [(125)I]-Leu(31), Pro(34)-PYY and [(125)I]-PYY 3-36. The pharmacology of [(125)I]-Leu(31), Pro(34)-PYY and [(125)I]-PYY 3-36 binding to mouse brain homogenates were consistent with Y1-like and Y2-like receptors, respectively. Using receptor autoradiography, high Y1-like binding was observed in the islands of Calleja and dentate gyrus. [(125)I]-PYY 3-36 binding was highest in the hippocampus, lateral septum, stria terminalis of the thalamus, and compacta and lateralis of the substantia nigra. In addition, there are differences in receptor distribution in mouse brain compared to other species that may translate into different functional roles for the NPY receptors within each species.
Narcissism in Romantic Relationships: A Dyadic Perspective

Previous literature has associated narcissism with interpersonal difficulties. However, there is a lack of studies investigating the impact of narcissism within romantic dyads. The current study extended the literature by examining relations between narcissism and conflict behaviors in both members of a romantic dyad. Participants in the study were 190 college-student couples, who completed questionnaire measures of their narcissism, conflict within their relationship, and a behavioral measure of aggression toward their partners. The results indicated a tendency towards homogamy for narcissism. A person's narcissism was related to their use of aggression and the partner's use of aggression. Several interactions between male and female narcissism were observed. For total NPI scores, the combination of high male and female narcissism was related to greater aggression. Grandiose Exhibitionism was only related to aggressive behavior when partner Grandiose Exhibitionism was lower; when partner Grandiose Exhibi...
Ornithine decarboxylase mRNA is stabilized in an mTORC1-dependent manner in Ras-transformed cells

Upon Ras activation, ODC (ornithine decarboxylase) is markedly induced, and numerous studies suggest that ODC expression is controlled by Ras effector pathways. ODC is therefore a potential target in the treatment and prevention of Ras-driven tumours. In the present study we compared ODC mRNA translation profiles and stability in normal and Ras12V-transformed RIE-1 (rat intestinal epithelial) cells. While translation initiation of ODC increased modestly in Ras12V cells, ODC mRNA was stabilized 8-fold. Treatment with the specific mTORC1 [mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) complex 1] inhibitor rapamycin or siRNA (small interfering RNA) knockdown of mTOR destabilized the ODC mRNA, but rapamycin had only a minor effect on ODC translation initiation. Inhibition of mTORC1 also reduced the association of the mRNA-binding protein HuR with the ODC transcript. We have shown previously that HuR binding to the ODC 3'UTR (untranslated region) results in significant stabilization of the ODC mRNA, which contains several AU-rich regions within its 3'UTR that may act as regulatory sequences. Analysis of ODC 3'UTR deletion constructs suggests that cis-acting elements between base 1969 and base 2141 of the ODC mRNA act to stabilize the ODC transcript. These experiments thus define a novel mechanism of ODC synthesis control. Regulation of ODC mRNA decay could be an important means of limiting polyamine accumulation and subsequent tumour development.
Environmentally determined genetic expression: clinical correlates with molecular variants of carbamyl phosphate synthetase I

Carbamyl phosphate synthetase I (CPSI) determines the rate-limiting entry of free ammonia into the urea cycle. Disruption of CPSI affects the liver's ability to remove waste nitrogen and produce arginine, citrulline, and urea. Arginine is the necessary precursor for the critical biomolecule, nitric oxide (NO). We have studied the classic model of CPSI deficiency, which results in severe hyperammonemia, and identified a large number of molecular defects. A number of CPSI polymorphisms have been found that appear to result in functional consequences. We have examined the association of these polymorphisms with various environmental stress conditions and found that certain CPSI alleles are associated with clinical outcome. We refer to these associations as environmentally determined genetic expression (EDGE) affects. In addition to studies of classic CPSI deficiency, we have developed data for the EDGE concept in post-cardiac surgery-related pulmonary hypertension, hepatic veno-occlusive disease after bone marrow transplantation, and persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn. We have linked these outcomes and genotypes to the availability of the urea cycle intermediates, citrulline and arginine, and their role in NO synthesis. We hypothesize that these polymorphisms affect the functional efficiency of CPSI and thus the entire urea cycle and as such, the availability of the NO substrates. By piecing together the various functional aspects of the urea cycle changes we have seen, we can better understand the clinical vulnerabilities of patients in environmentally stressful situations. This knowledge should allow us to design intervention strategies to either predict or modify the associated adverse outcomes.
A virus disease of Meloidogyne incognita incognita, the southern root knot nematode.

THIS communication reports the presence of a virus in the plant parasitic nematode Meloidogyne incognita incognita (Kofoid and White) Chitwood.
Investigation of the clonality of lymphocytes in Hashimoto's thyroiditis using immunoglobulin and T-cell receptor gene probes

Abstract Southern blotting and DNA hybridization were used for the detection of immunoglobulin and T-cell receptor gene rearrangements in thyroid tissue from six patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis, three patients with B-cell lymphoma complicating Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and two patients with nonspecific lymphocytic thyroiditis. Immunoglobulin gene rearrangements were detected only in patients with histologic evidence of lymphoma. A single T-cell receptor β-chain gene rearrangement was detected in one of the patients with uncomplicated Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Based on our knowledge of primary thyroid lymphomas, it is highly unlikely that this case represents an early, histologically occult T-cell lymphoma. The uniform lack of immunoglobulin gene rearrangements in Hashimoto's thyroiditis supports the use of genotypic analysis in differentiating between uncomplicated Hashimoto's thyroiditis and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. The finding of a T-cell receptor gene rearrangement in a case of Hashimoto's thyroiditis suggests that the immune response in this disease occasionally may be clonally restricted.
Effects of anisotropy and inhomogeneity on electrocardiographic fields: A finite element study

An important aspect of the biophysical modeling of electrocardiographic fields is the effect of various tissue inhomogeneities and anisotropies on the calculated fields. In this paper we quantitatively assess the effects of different tissue conductivities using a thorax geometry based upon MRI scans and intraoperatively recorded heart potentials.
Sex-biased transmission of a complex life-cycle parasite: why males matter

Male-bias in parasite infection exists in a variety of host – parasite systems, but the epidemiological importance of males and, specifi cally, whether males are responsible for producing a disproportionate amount of onward transmission events (malebiased transmission) has seldom been tested. Th e primary goal of our study was to experimentally test for male-biased transmission in a system with no sex-biased prevalence. We performed a longitudinal fi eld experiment and continuously removed intestinal nematode parasites from either male or female white-footed mice and recorded the subsequent transmission among the untreated sex. We predicted males are responsible for the majority of transmission and female mice would have lower infection prevalence under the male-anthelmintic treatment than controls and that male mice would experience little or no change in infection prevalence under female-anthelmintic treatment compared to controls. Our second goal was to evaluate physiological hypotheses relating to the mechanisms that could generate the observed transmission pattern. To that end, we examined a cross-sectional sample of hosts to explicitly test for diff erences in parasite intensity, parasite egg shedding rate and reproductive output per parasite between male and female hosts. Removing parasites from male mice resulted in lower infection rates among female mice but, in contrast, there was no eff ect of female-deworming on infection rates among male mice; providing evidence that males provide disproportionately greater numbers of transmission events than females. We found no diff erence in prevalence, intensity, or fecundity of parasites between sexes in the cross-sectional sample of mice and rejected the mechanistic hypotheses. Without male-biased prevalence, intensity, or parasite fecundity, we concluded that male-biased transmission is unlikely to be created via physiological diff erences and the parsimonious explanation is that male behavior spreads infective stages in a more successful manner. We demonstrate that transmission heterogeneities can exist in the absence of individual heterogeneities in infection.
Methylenecyclopropane Rearrangement as a Probe for Free Radical Substituent Effects. sigma (*) Values for Potent Radical-Stabilizing Nitrogen-Containing Substituents.

A series of nitrogen-containing 2-aryl-3,3-dimethylmethylenecyclopropanes have been prepared and rearrangement rates to the corresponding 2-arylisopropylidenecyclopropanes have been measured. These rates are dependent on the nature of the nitrogen-containing group in the para-position of the aryl group. Rearrangement rates have been used to calculate σ • values, which are a measure of the radical stabilizing ability of the substituent. Groups such as p-NN−Bu-t, p-CHN−Bu-t, p-NH2, p-CHN−OH, and p-CHN−OCH3, are “good” radical stabilizers. We have also classified groups such as p-CHN−NMe2, p-NN−Ph, p-NN(O)-Bu-t, p-CHN(O)-Bu-t, and p-CHN−O- M+, which have an extraordinarily large radical stabilizing effect, as “Super Stabilizers”. These substituents stabilize the transition state of the methylenecyclopropane rearrangement by extensive spin delocalization. In the case of the latter three substituents, nitroxyl type stabilization is proposed. Density functional calculations (B3LYP/6-31G*) have been carried out ...
Respiratory and sniffing behaviors throughout adulthood and aging in mice.

Orienting responses are physiological and active behavioral reactions evoked by novel stimulus perception and are critical for survival. We explored whether odor orienting responses are impacted throughout both adulthood and normal and pathological aging in mice. Novel odor investigation (including duration and bout numbers) and its subsequent habituation as assayed in the odor habituation task were preserved in adult C57BL/6J mice up to 12mo of age with <6% variability between age groups in investigation time. Separately, using whole-body plethysmography we found that both spontaneous respiration and odor-evoked sniffing behaviors were strikingly preserved in wildtype (WT) mice up to 26mo of age. In contrast, mice accumulating amyloid-β protein in the brain by means of overexpressing mutations in the human amyloid precursor protein gene (APP) showed preserved spontaneous respiration up to 12mo, but starting at 14mo showed significant differences from WT. Similar to WTs, odor-evoked sniffing was not impacted in APP mice up to 26mo. These results show that odor-orienting responses are minimally impacted throughout aging in mice, and suggest that the olfactomotor network is mostly spared of insults due to aging.
Electron phase microscopy at 1 MeV with graphite crystal supports

SUMMARY Thin phase objects can be seen with good contrast with 1 MeV electrons if they are supported on a graphite crystal approximately half an extinction distance thick and viewed near 101 or 112 bend contours. The shape of unstained tobacco mosaic virus is easily seen with crystal phase contrast although it is almost invisible in a normal bright field micrograph taken with 1 MeV electrons. Phase contrast images of both TMV and 109 nm diameter latex spheres are observed to be bright against a grey background on one side of a 101 or 112 bend contour and dark against a grey background on the other side of the bend contour. For strong contrast the crystal diffraction vector g must have a component parallel to the beam. Contours such as 100 and 110 do not give strong phase contrast. The phase contrast images for biological material gradually increase in contrast as the specimens are irradiated by the electron beam. An electron exposure of about 104 electrons nm−2 is required to obtain maximum contrast.
Field evaluation of commercial monoammonium phosphate fertilizers.

A field study was conducted for two years to evaluate 9 MAP fertilizers produced from the major sources of PR deposits located in Florida, Idaho and North Carolina compared with reagent grade MAP. Sources varied in chemical composition and had 81 to 100% of the A.O.A.C. available P water soluble. Each source was applied to a Norfolk (Typic Paleudults) and a Hartsells(Typic Hapludults) soil at rates to supply 0, 29 and 59 kg P ha−1. Forage yields and P concentrations in harvested forage were increased by the application of P (P ⩽ 0.05) to both soils during the two year study. The concentration of P in harvested forage was affected by the source of MAP only on the Hartsells soil in 1988. Nitrogen was not affected by the source MAP in any of the forage samples tested. Yield differences among sources were observed only in 1987 on the Norfolk soil and in 1988 on the Hartsells soil. Performance of the fertilizers was not related to the percentage of water soluble P or the content of metallic elements.
The Permian of Arizona and New Mexico

The Permian is represented in the southwestern United States by limestones and sandstones, the latter in part red, and local deposits of gypsum and salt. In Arizona the principal formations are the Kaibab limestone, Coconino sandstone, and the greater part of the Supai formation. Part of the Naco limestone in the southern part of the state is Permian and strata of that age have been found in the southwestern part of the state. In the Holbrook dome and Defiance uplift the Kaibab limestone thins out and the Coconino sandstone is extensively exposed while in part of this area the red beds of the Supai formation lie on pre-Cambrian granite and quartzite. In New Mexico these strata are represented by the Chupadera formation consisting mainly of limestone, gray and red sandstone, and gypsum, and the red Abo sandstone. The latter lies on limestone of the Magdalena group (Pennsylvanian) but overlaps locally on pre-Cambrian rocks notably in Zuni, Nacimiento, and Pedemal mountains. Under much of eastern New Mexico the Chupadera formation includes thick deposits of salt and anhydrite. To the south the formation merges laterally into the limestones and sandstones of the Guadalupe group which carries a large and remarkably different fauna. This change of life indicates a great change in environmental conditions in a short distance which is difficult to explain. Over the Guadalupe and Chupadera strata lie the thick Castile gypsum and the Rustle limestone, which are probably also of Permian age.
HRT and cardiovascular disease

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has profound effects on the cardiovascular system, with plausible biological mechanisms explaining both the benefits and harm. Benefits may result from oestrogen action on metabolic risk factors, such as lipids, glucose and insulin metabolism, as well as direct arterial effects, reducing atherogenesis. Harm may arise from inappropriately high starting doses causing transient increases in coagulation activation and adverse vascular remodelling. Observational studies of HRT suggest that there is a beneficial effect on the incidence of coronary heart disease (CHD). Any benefit of HRT seen in randomized clinical trials appears to be confined to those women within several years of their menopause, and it is clear from the randomized trials that age at initiation is a crucially important consideration. Women initiating HRT within 10 years of menopause onset may achieve cardiovascular benefit, particularly in terms of primary CHD prevention, whilst avoiding risks of stroke and venous thrombo-embolism.
Predicting Hurricane Power Outages to Support Storm Response Planning

Hurricanes regularly cause widespread and prolonged power outages along the U.S. coastline. These power outages have significant impacts on other infrastructure dependent on electric power and on the population living in the impacted area. Efficient and effective emergency response planning within power utilities, other utilities dependent on electric power, private companies, and local, state, and federal government agencies benefit from accurate estimates of the extent and spatial distribution of power outages in advance of an approaching hurricane. A number of models have been developed for predicting power outages in advance of a hurricane, but these have been specific to a given utility service area, limiting their use to support wider emergency response planning. In this paper, we describe the development of a hurricane power outage prediction model applicable along the full U.S. coastline using only publicly available data, we demonstrate the use of the model for Hurricane Sandy, and we use the model to estimate what the impacts of a number of historic storms, including Typhoon Haiyan, would be on current U.S. energy infrastructure.
Triple-Label β Liquid Scintillation Counting

The detection of radioactive compounds by liquid scintillation has revolutionized modern biology, yet few investigators make full use of the power of this technique. Even though multiple isotope counting is considerably more difficult than single isotope counting, many experimental designs would benefit from using more than one isotope. The development of accurate isotope counting techniques enabling the simultaneous use of three β-emitting tracers has facilitated studies in our laboratory using the multiple tracer indicator dilution technique for assessing rates of transmembrane transport and cellular metabolism. The details of sample preparation, and of stabilizing the liquid scintillation spectra of the tracers, are critical to obtaining good accuracy. Reproducibility is enhanced by obtaining detailed efficiency/quench curves for each particular set of tracers and solvent media. The numerical methods for multiple-isotope quantitation depend on avoiding error propagation (inherent to successive subtraction techniques) by using matrix inversion. Experimental data obtained from triple-label β counting illustrate reproducibility and good accuracy even when the relative amounts of different tracers in samples of protein/electrolyte solutions, plasma, and blood are changed.