cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Articulated Palaeozoic fossil with 17 plates greatly expands disparity of early chitons

Modern chitons (Mollusca: Polyplacophora) possess a highly conserved skeleton of eight shell plates (valves) surrounded by spicules or scales, and fossil evidence suggests that the chiton skeleton has changed little since the first appearance of the class in the Late Cambrian period (about 500 million years before present, Myr bp). However, the Palaeozoic problematic taxon Multiplacophora1,2,3,4,5, in spite of having a more complex skeleton, shares several derived characters with chitons. The enigmatic status of the Multiplacophora is due in part to the fact that its members had an exoskeleton of numerous calcium carbonate valves that usually separated after death. A new articulated specimen from the Carboniferous period (about 335 Myr bp) of Indiana reveals that multiplacophorans had a dorsal protective surface composed of head and tail valves, left and right columns of overlapping valves (five on each side), and a central zone of five smaller valves, all surrounded by an annulus of large spines. Here we describe and name the articulated specimen and present evidence that multiplacophorans were chitons. Thus the highly conserved body plan of living chitons belies the broad disparity of this clade during the Palaeozoic era.
Th-symmetrical N8(C=C)6 and P8(C=C)6; an extraordinary contrast in heterofullerene stability

Th-symmetrical P8(CC)6, 1, is predicted to be a remarkably stable small heterofullerene with carbon atoms less pyramidal than in C60. Th-N8(CC)6, 2, in sharp contrast, is strongly destabilized relative to Th-(HC)8(CC)6. The causes of this extraordinarily large difference (nearly 1000 kJ mol-1) between 1 and 2 are explained.
Peak assignments of D2O and HOD in relatively nonpolar solvents

Abstract The peak positions for the absorption bands of D2O and HOD in CCl4 and CDCl3 have been measured. The positions agreed closely with values calculated from equations developed for the vapor, confirming the monomeric nature of D2O and HOD in these solutions. The excellent agreement between calculated and observed peak positions establishes the peak assignments for D2O and HOD in solution.
Acute perilymphatic perfusion of the guinea pig cochlea.

A method for the continuous perfusion of the perilymphatic space of the inner ear in the guinea pig is described. Artificial perilymph is supplied to the cochlea and drained away through a tubing system while flow rates from IO pl/min to 0.3 ml/min are established by gravity syphon pressure. Techniques are also presented which allow control over the temperature of the perfusate and over the level of dissolved oxygen in the perfusate. Along with these variables, the pH of the artificial perilymph can be manipulated and various drugs can be added lo the perfusate to test their effect on the inner ear. The function of the inner ear is monitored by continuous recording of the sound evoked bioelectric potentials, the cochlear microphonic and the compound action potential. The cochlear perfusion technique has many applications in the study of cochlear physiology and metabolism, and in testing the sensitivity of the inner ear to otoloxic drugs.
Purification and characterization of mannitol dehydrogenase and identification of the corresponding cDNA from the head blight fungus, Gibberella zeae (Fusarium graminearum)

The mannitol-2-dehydrogenase (MtDH) from Gibberella zeae was purified and the corresponding cDNA identified. Purification of MtDH was accomplished using a combination of ammonium sulfate fractionation, anion exchange and dye-ligand chromatography. Final purification was achieved following electroelution from a native gel. Molecular mass determination based on SDS-PAGE indicated that the denatured protein was 29 kDa. Native protein mass was determined to be 110 kDa using gel permeation chromatography, indicating a tetrameric form. The pH optima for mannitol oxidation and fructose reductase activities were 9.0, and 7.0, respectively. Activity with sorbitol as the substrate was 21% of activity with mannitol. Kinetic parameters were determined by direct-linear plots of enzyme activity vs. substrate concentrations. Fructose concentrations above 600 mM and NADPH concentrations above 0.3 mM caused substrate inhibition. Comparisons of predicted amino acid sequences of several fungal MtDHs indicated high conservation within the phyla. A possible role for MtDH in generation of turgor pressure for forcible ascospore discharge is discussed.
Interactions of human, cultured kidney cells with the complement system

Interactions of human, cultured kidney cells with the complement system. When heat-killed, cultured human kidney cells were incubated with normal human serum, complement (C) activation occurred with moderate consumption of C4, C2, C3, and C5 hemolytic activity. No loss of C1 activity and no, or only slight, reduction in C6 activity was detectable until high cell concentrations were reached. C4 and C2 consumption could not be prevented by blocking the primary C pathway through prior EGTA chelation of the serum. Both living and heat-killed kidney cells were incubated with normal serum and examined for surface-bound C components using immunofluorescent techniques Heat-killed kidney cells were strongly positive for C3, which was distributed in a diffuse, speckled pattern over the entire cell surface. These cells were also weakly positive for IgG and Clq immunofluorescence, but were negative for surface albumin, C5, and β1H. In contrast, living cell suspensions showed only occasional cells positive for C3, IgG, or Clq and all cells were negative for albumin, C5, and β1H. Viability staining revealed that the few C3 positive cells in living cell suspensions belonged to a small, nonviable subpopulation. These data indicate that dead cells can initiate limited C activation, which can result in binding of C3 to the cell surface. Interactions de cellules renales humaines cultivees avec le systeme du complement. Des cellules renales humaines cultivees tuees par la chaleur ont ete incubees avec du serum humain normal, l'activation du complement (C) a ete observee, avec une consommation moderee d'activite hemolytique de C4, C2, C3, et C5. Aucune perte d'activite de C1 et aucune diminution de C6 n'ont ete detectables tant que des concentrations cellulaires elevees n'ont pas ete atteintes. La consommation de C4 et de C2 n'a pas ete empechee par le blocage de la voie primaire au moyen de la chelation prealable par l'EGTA. Des cellules vivantes et des cellules tuees par la chaleur ont ete incubees avec du serum normal et les composants du complement fixes a la surface ont ete etudies au moyen d l'immunofluorescence. Les cellules tuees par la chaleur etaient fortement positives pour le C3 qui etait distribue d'une facon diffuse sur la totalite de la surface cellulaire. Ces cellules etaient aussi faiblement positives pour IgG et Clq mais etaient negatives pour l'albumine, C5, et β1H. Les suspensions de cellules vivantes, au contraire, n'avaient que quelques cellules positives pour C3, IgG, ou Clq et toutes les cellules etaient negatives pour l'albumine, C5, et β1H. Les colorations vitales ont montre que les quelques cellules positives pour C3 dans les suspensions de cellules vivantes appartenaient a une petite population non viable. Ces resultats indiquent que les cellules mortes peuvent declencher une activation limitee de C qui peut avoir pour resultat la liaison de C3 a la surface cellulaire.
Postnatal increases in neurofilament gene expression correlate with the radial growth of axons.

Neurofilament gene expression appears to play an important role in regulating axonal calibre. In the dorsal root ganglia of mature mammals, large sensory neurons contain high levels of neurofilament mRNAs and give rise to large-calibre myelinated axons (with diameters up to 8 μm in rat), while small sensory neurons contain undetectable levels of neurofilament mRNAs and give rise to unmyelinated axons (with diameters less than 1 μm). In the present study we used a combination of morphological and molecular approaches to examine the relationships among postnatal increases in neurofilament gene expression, growth in perikaryal size, growth in axonal calibre and myelin formation in lumbar sensory neurons of rat. Usingin situ hybridization, three populations of sensory neurons could be clearly distinguised at birth: (1) neurons containing relatively high levels of neurofilament mRNAs; (2) neurons containing low levels of neurofilament mRNAs; and (3) neurons containing undetectable levels of neurofilament mRNAs. Perikaryal size was greater for neurons with high levels of neurofilament mRNAs than for those with either low or undetectable levels. The proportion of neurons expressing high levels of neurofilament mRNAs increased from approximately 10% at birth to 30% by 28 days of age; increases in the abundance of neurofilament mRNAs in these neurons between 0 and 28 days of age, as documented by blot analyses of RNA purified from dorsal root ganglia, correlated with increases in perikaryal size. This postnatal rise in neurofilament gene expression also correlated with an increase in the cross-sectional areas of myelinated axons in the L5 dorsal root. As axons matured in their relationship to Schwann cells (polyaxonal pockets → ensheathed → segregated → myelinated), their cross-sectional areas increased. Thus, growth in both perikaryal size and axonal calibre correlated closely with increased neurofilament gene expression in these sensory neurons. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that neurofilament expression plays an important role in the sequence of events leading to the radial growth and myelination of axons.
Assessment of arsenic and heavy metal concentrations in water and sediments of the Rio Grande at El Paso-Juarez metroplex region.

Abstract The Rio Grande located along the US–Mexico border is affected by anthropogenic activities along its geographical course. Runoff and wind deposition of smelting residues may contribute to the pollution of the Rio Grande in the El Paso–Ciudad Juarez area. Few studies have addressed the presence or impacts of heavy metals or arsenic in this ecosystem. This study reports a survey of heavy metals (Cr, Cu, Cd, Ni, Pb, and Zn) and arsenic (As) in water and sediments of the Rio Grande collected from seven sites in the El Paso–Juarez region. Since water quality influences metal content in water, physical (temperature, flow and conductivity), and chemical (pH, dissolved oxygen, nitrates, alkalinity, and water hardness) parameters were measured at each site. Arsenic and heavy metal levels were determined using Inductively Couple Plasma (ICP) emission spectroscopy following EPA procedures. Zinc and lead were found as both total and dissolved metals in most of the samples, with concentrations of total recoverable metals reaching up to 105 and 70 μg/l, respectively. Most metals were found in sediment samples collected from four of seven sites. The highest Cu concentration (35 mg/l) was found at the American Dam site. Concentrations of metals found through this survey will be used as a reference for future studies in monitoring arsenic, heavy metals, and their impacts in the Rio Grande.
Portable ladder assessment tool development and validation–quantifying best practices in the field

Many causes for falls from ladders in construction are related to the user's activities; however, the extent to which users comply with ladder use best practices is unknown and has not been well quantified before. We developed and tested an audit tool that assesses compliance with best practices guidelines for portable-ladder-use designed for applications in the construction industry. Implemented on a hand-held computer, the assessment tool consisted of a series of check-lists categorized in four groups; ladder condition, setup, moving on a ladder, and completing tasks from a ladder. For these four observational categories, the resulting tool contained 31 and 33 questions for step and extension ladders, respectively. Three individuals trained to use the tool scored a set of photographs and videos depicting 25 ladder conditions, 20 ladder setups, 10 users moving on ladders, and 13 users completing tasks from a ladder for a total of 78 observations. The assessment tool had good agreement across and within raters. For the three raters, agreement ranged from 79% to 97% across the questions. Within one subject, kappa coefficients for the intra-rater reliability ranged from 0.67 to 0.91. The tool offers a practical method to quantify best practices associated with ladder use that can ultimately inform targeted intervention efforts.
Surface-Bound Lipid Vesicles Encapsulating Redox Species for Amperometric Biosensing of Pore-Forming Bacterial Toxins

A new method is described to signal the presence of a staphylococcal toxin (streptolysin, SLO) by a membrane-based biosensor fabricated with bilayer vesicles of phosphatidylcholine lipids and cholesterol on a gold electrode. The controlled release of encapsulated redox species from the surface-bound vesicles is mediated by the pore-formation functionality of SLO, allowing amperometric detection of the targeted toxin. Effects of BSA and Triton-100 on membrane permeability and redox release have been assessed, and a thin layer electrolysis mechanism has been proposed to account for the observed voltammetric behavior. The method is applicable to the detection of functionally similar protein toxins.
Computationally efficient Bayesian tracking

In this paper, we describe the progress we have achieved in developing a computationally efficient, grid-based Bayesian fusion tracking system. In our approach, the probability surface is represented by a collection of multidimensional polynomials, each computed adaptively on a grid of cells representing state space. Time evolution is performed using a hybrid particle/grid approach and knowledge of the grid structure, while sensor updates use a measurement-based sampling method with a Delaunay triangulation. We present an application of this system to the problem of tracking a submarine target using a field of active and passive sonar buoys.
Variables that affect the middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity in fetuses with anemia and intrauterine growth restriction

We have previously reported that the fetal middle cerebral artery (MCA) peak systolic velocity (PSV) increases in anemic fetuses and in fetuses with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). We hypothesized that the pathophysiology for the increased MCA PSV is different in anemic and IUGR fetuses. Thus the aim of this study was to determine the factor(s) among fetal umbilical vein blood pH, Po2, Pco2, and hemoglobin that might affect the MCA PSV in fetuses with anemia and IUGR. This study included two groups of fetuses. The first group included fetuses at risk for anemia because of red cell alloimmunization, whereas the second group included IUGR fetuses. For both groups of fetuses, we determined hemoglobin, umbilical vein blood gases -- at cordocentesis in anemic fetuses and immediately after cesarean delivery in IUGR fetuses -- and MCA PSV before cordocentesis, or before delivery. The relationship between MCA PSV and the hemoglobin, Po2, Pco2, and pH values for the anemic and the IUGR fetuses were assessed by regression analysis using multiples of the mean. There were 14 fetuses in the first group and 22 fetuses in the second group. In the first group, the only parameter that was related to MCA PSV was the fetal hemoglobin (R2 = 0.34; p < 0.05); in fetuses with IUGR, the Pco2 (R2 = 0.36; p < 0.01) and the PO2 (R2 = 0.30; p < 0.01) correlated well with the MCA PSV, whereas no relationship was found between the MCA PSV and the hemoglobin. The data indicate that the mechanism of high MCA PSV is different in anemic and nonanemic IUGR fetuses, and suggest that the process of cerebral autoregulation is present in the preterm IUGR fetus.
The stabilization and purification of respiratory syncytial virus using MgSO4

Abstract Respiratory syncytial (RS) virus infectivity is stabilized by MgSO 4 . In the presence of 1 M MgSO 4 at 4°, only 50% of viral infectivity is lost in 12 weeks. This is a 30-fold increase in RS virus stability. The increased stability of RS virus allowed infectivity to be used as a convenient marker for the presence of RS virus during multiple cycles of density gradient centrifugation.
X-Ray Spectroscopy of Quasi-Stellar Objects with Broad Ultraviolet Absorption Lines

For the population of quasi-stellar objects (QSOs) with broad ultraviolet absorption lines, we are just beginning to accumulate X-ray observations with enough counts for spectral analysis at CCD resolution. From a sample of eight QSOs (including four broad absorption line [BAL] QSOs and three mini-BAL QSOs) with ASCA or Chandra spectra with more than 200 counts, general patterns are emerging. Their power-law X-ray continua are typical of normal QSOs with Γ ≈ 2.0, and the signatures of a significant column density [NH ≈ (0.1-4) × 1023 cm-2] of intrinsic, absorbing gas are clear. Correcting the X-ray spectra for intrinsic absorption recovers a normal ultraviolet-to-X-ray flux ratio, indicating that the spectral energy distributions of this population are not inherently anomalous. In addition, a large fraction of our sample shows significant evidence for complexity in the absorption. The subset of BAL QSOs with broad Mg II absorption apparently suffers from Compton-thick absorption completely obscuring the direct continuum in the 2-10 keV X-ray band, complicating any measurement of their intrinsic X-ray spectral shapes.
Successful extrusion of small diameter CPVC pipe

Chlorinated polyvinylchloride (CPVC) pipe is a rapidly growing market, especially 25.4 mm (1″) pipe and smaller. Extrusion of CPVC pipe presents a greater challenge than PVC, because CPVC has less heat stability and higher viscosity. However, CPVC has good physical properties, particularly with respect to heat, and can be used to make hot water pipe. This paper discusses some of the basic factors involved in screw and pipe head design for CPVC extrusion, and gives some examples of successful applications.
A comparison of the behavior of Macaca fascicularis and Macaca mulatta in relation to the menstrual cycle.

Observations on oppositely sexed pairs of M. fascicularis and M. mulatta revealed certain differences. M. fascicularis showed single-mount copulations, higher potency, less grooming activity, and milder but more frequent aggressive exchanges than the rhesus monkey. These differences might be due to the lower dominance gradient between the sexes and less sexual dimorphism in M. fascicularis than in M. mulatta. There were changes in the sexual, grooming, and aggressive interaction in relation to the menstrual cycle, indicating the suitability of M. fascicularis for hormone-behavior studies. Comparison of data from 30 and 60 min tests showed that important behavioral changes did not become apparent unless animals were given enough time to interact.
Characterization of membrane-bound electron transport enzymes from castor bean glyoxysomes and endoplasmic reticulum

Membranes purified from castor bean endosperm glyoxysomes by washing with sodium carbonate exhibited integral NADH:ferricyanide and NADH:cytochrome c reductase activities. The enzyme activities could not be attributed to contamination by other endomembranes. Purified endoplasmic reticulum membranes also contained the redox activities; and marker enzyme analysis indicated minimum cross contamination between glyoxysomal and endoplasmic reticulum fractions. The glyoxysomal redox activities were optimally solubilized at detergent to protein ratios (weight to weight) of 10 (Triton X-100), 50 (3-[3-cholamidopropyl)-dimethylammonio]-1-propanesulfonate), and 100 (octylglucoside). Detergent in excess of the solubilization optimum was stimulatory to NADH:ferricyanide reductase and inhibitory to NADH:cytochrome c reductase. Endoplasmic reticulum redox activity solubilization profiles were similar to those obtained for glyoxysomal enzymes using Triton X-100. Purification of the glyoxysomal and endoplasmic reticulum NADH:ferricyanide reductases was accomplished using dye-ligand affinity chromatography on Cibacron blue 3GA agarose. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoretic analysis of NADH:ferricyanide reductase preparations purified by rate-zonal density gradient centrifugation, affinity chromatography, and nondenaturing electrophoresis of detergent-solubilized glyoxysomal and endoplasmic reticulum membranes consistently displayed 32- and 33-kDa silver-stained polypeptide bands, respectively.
Expanding the Scope of Control and Raising

. This paper presents unusual patterns in raising and control and offers a syntactic account which would validate such patterns. On the empirical side, we present evidence for backward control (data from several languages), backward raising (in Adyghe), copy control (Zapotec, Assamese, Tongan) and copy raising (data from a number of languages). All the unusual cases of raising and control seem to involve an A-movement chain in which the lower, not the higher copy is pronounced, or both copies are spelled out. We also review some constructions which, while superficially resembling backward or copy structure, do not provide any evidence for a movement chain. On the theoretical side, assuming that the more unusual patterns are an empirical reality, linguistic theory should be capable of analyzing them. We present mechanisms from the current Minimalist Program which we believe allow the attested variation.
Effects of Temperature on Hatching and Development of Ruffe (Gymnocephalus cernuus)

The ruffe (Gymnocephalus cernuus) was introduced into the estuary of the St. Louis River at the western end of Lake Superior in about 1986 and is now the numerically dominant trawl-caught fish in this ecosystem. To learn more about the early life history of this new North America species, we incubated ruffe embryos at 6, 11, 16, and 21°C. In this way we determined the effects of temperature on hatching success, rates of development, the times from fertilization to hatching, and from fertilization to swim-up stage. After cooling from 13–16°C and subsequent incubation at 6°C few embryos hatched and no normal larvae were produced. At 11, 16, and 21°C, hatching success ranged from 49–58%, and 66% of those that hatched survived to swim-up. The mean time from fertilization to hatching was 29, 11,6, and 4 days at 6, 11, 16, and 21°C, respectively. The time from fertilization to swim-up was 26, 14, and 9 days at 11, 16, and 21°C, respectively. We believe the information provided will be of value to those interested in the basic environmental biology of this new species to North America, and to those natural resource managers responsible for waters where this species is or will become present. This new information will aid natural resource managers in planning chemical control strategies so as to avoid scheduling treatment when the ruffe's resistant egg stage may be extant; and also in aiding them to know when greater caution should be enforced so as to avoid extending their range through entrainment of the vulnerable swim-up larvae, e.g., during ships ballasting, with the possible consequence of transport to new sites of invasion.
Long-term Prognosis in Primary Hyperoxaluria Type 11 (L-Glyceric Aciduria)

Primary hyperoxaluria type II (PH-II) or L-glyceric aciduria was first reported by Williams and Smith in 1968 (N Engl J Med 278:233-239,1968). Deficiencies of D-glycerate dehydrogenase and glyoxylate reductase activity in patients with this disorder leads to increases in urinary oxalate and glycerate excretion. Clinically, PH-II presents in a similar fashion to the more common variant of the disorder, PH-I, with symptoms of calcium oxalate nephrolithiasis. To date, 16 patients with PH-II have been described, and information regarding follow-up is available in only three. We review these reports and present five additional patients from three families, four of whom have been followed closely for more than 20 years. The favorable long-term outcome of our patients over 110 patient-years, as determined by renal function testing and radiographic evaluation, suggests that PH-II may have a more favorable prognosis when compared with the natural history of PH-I. Systematic screening of all PH patients in our practice led to the discovery of five of 30 with PH-II, thus suggesting that this subset population may be more common than originally suspected.
Dual inhibition of topoisomerase II and tubulin polymerization by azatoxin, a novel cytotoxic agent

Azatoxin (NSC 640737) is a synthetic molecule that was rationally designed as a topoisomerase II inhibitor (Leteurtre et al., Cancer Res 52: 4478-4483, 1992). The present study was undertaken in order to investigate the molecular pharmacology and the cytotoxic activity of azatoxin in human tumor cells. Alkaline elution experiments performed in HL-60 cells demonstrated that: (1) azatoxin induces DNA-protein cross-links and protein-linked DNA single- and double-strand breaks characteristics of topoisomerase II inhibition in HL-60 cells; and (2) the potency of azatoxin is comparable to that of etoposide (VP-16). Testing of azatoxin in 45 human cell lines in the National Cancer Institute (NCI) in vitro Drug Screening Program indicated that azatoxin was potent (mean IC50 = 0.13 microM), but that its cell line sensitivity profile was correlated with that of tubule inhibitors rather than that of topoisomerase II inhibitors. These data led us to investigate the anti-tubulin activity of azatoxin. We found that azatoxin inhibited tubulin polymerization in vitro and was a mitotic inhibitor at 1 microM and above in the human colon cancer cell line KM20L2. In these cells topoisomerase II inhibition, as detected by the induction of protein-linked DNA strand breaks, required azatoxin concentrations of at least 10 microM. In summary, azatoxin is a potent cytotoxic agent that inhibited both tubulin and topoisomerase II. At lower azatoxin concentrations the former activity prevailed whereas at higher concentrations topoisomerase II inhibition became prominent.
High-Pressure Liquid Chromatographic Analysis of Polythiazide in Pharmaceutical Tablet Formulations

Abstract A high-pressure liquid chromatographic method was developed for the quantitative determination of polythiazide in pharmaceutical tablet formulations after extraction of the powdered tablets with a water-acetonitrile solvent. Analysis is accomplished by comparison of peak areas after chromatography.
Continuity of the norm map on Milnor K-theory

The norm map on the Milnor K-groups of a finite extension of complete, discrete valuation fields is continuous with respect to the unit group filtrations. The only proof in the literature, due to K. Kato, uses semi-global methods. Here we present an elementary algebraic proof.
Residential self-selection in the relationships between the built environment and travel behavior: Introduction to the special issue

This paper introduces the topic of residential self-selection, the topic for this issue of the Journal of Transport and Land Use.
Mutations in ftsZ that confer resistance to SulA affect the interaction of FtsZ with GTP.

Mutations in the essential cell division gene ftsZ confer resistance to SulA, a cell division inhibitor that is induced as part of the SOS response. In this study we have purified and characterized the gene products of six of these mutant ftsZ alleles, ftsZ1, ftsZ2, ftsZ3, ftsZ9, ftsZ100, and ftsZ114, and compared their properties to those of the wild-type gene product. The binding of GTP was differentially affected by these mutations. FtsZ3 exhibited no detectable GTP binding, and FtsZ9 and FtsZ100 exhibited markedly reduced GTP binding. In contrast, FtsZ1 and FtsZ2 bound GTP almost as well as the wild type, and FtsZ114 displayed increased GTP binding. Furthermore, we observed that all mutant FtsZ proteins exhibited markedly reduced intrinsic GTPase activity. It is likely that mutations in ftsZ that confer sulA resistance alter the conformation of the protein such that it assumes the active form. Images
Tropical splenomegaly syndrome in New Guinea II. Long term results of splenectomy

Abstract Between 1965 and 1967 splenectomy was performed on 21 Watuts and 5 other New Guineans to relieve persistent incapacitating symptoms of tropical splenomegaly syndrome. There were 3 operative deaths. Post-operatively abolition of the splenic red cell pool, correction of the shortened red cell survival time and reduction in plasma volume occurred, leading to a mean rise in haemoglobin concentration of 3·7 g./100 ml. Neutropenia and thrombocytopenia were also corrected. There was a rapid post-operative fall in serum IgG and IgM concentrations, and a prolonged reduction in intravascular pools of both immunoglobulin fractions. The 18 Watuts discharged from hospital and followed for from 41 to 74 months have had significant symptomatic relief, although 7 have died following short illnesses; this mortality rate (36%) is substantially less than that of a comparable group of Watuts not subjected to splenectomy.
Amelioration of lesions associated with 24‐hour suboptimal platelet storage at 16 °C by a p38MAPK inhibitor, VX‐702

Background and Objectives Previous studies with p38MAPK inhibitors at room temperature demonstrated that they improve a large number of platelet storage parameters, but cannot substantially inhibit p38MAPK activation nor protect against widespread decrements in platelet quality parameters during 4 °C storage. In this study, platelet quality parameters and inhibition of p38MAPK by VX-702 were studied after incubation of platelets at 16 °C without agitation, suboptimal storage conditions which produce moderate platelet decrements. Materials and Methods Trima apheresis units were collected and aliquoted into three 60-ml CLX storage bags: (i) a control aliquot which was held at 20–24 °C with constant agitation; (ii) a test aliquot which was held at 20–24 °C with agitation until Day 2, when it was reincubated at 16 ± 1 °C for 24 ± 0·5 h without agitation and then returned 20–24 °C with agitation; (iii) a test aliquot containing 1 μm VX-702 stored in an identical fashion as aliquot 2. Aliquots were tested for an array of platelet storage parameters and p38MAPK activation on Days 1, 4 and 7. Results Many platelet storage parameters and p38MAPK activation were adversely affected by 24-h incubation at 16 °C without agitation. With the exception of ESC, addition of VX-702 prevented p38MAPK activation and the decrements in most observed parameters. Conclusion Unlike 4 °C storage, VX-702 prevents activation of p38MAPK and decrements in many platelet storage parameters after exposure to 16 °C without agitation for 24 h.
Dwelling in GDR Literature

In this article I treat the way the GDR authors Gunter de Bruyn, Brigitte Reimann, and Christa Wolf reconsidered domesticity and urbanism in key works from the late 1960s. Their reflections on prescriptive Wohnkultur, life in tenement apartments, and the relationship between domesticity and life cycles were responses to new regimes of image circulation and represented alienation in shifting urban environments. In engaging with these processes, these writers linked innovation in literary form to the possibility for critical intervention in debates on the political value of new and inherited spaces of everyday life. Their sophisticated conceptual engagements with social change and reflections on the status of language yielded a literary modernism unique to the GDR, yet with intellectual parallels to critiques of modern architecture, commodity fetishism, and institutionality in the FRG, France, and the United States.
Effect of Si doping on the electronic properties of BN monolayer

The effect of Si doping on the stability, electronic structure, and electron transport properties of boron nitride (BN) monolayer has been investigated by density functional theory method. Unique features in the electron transport characteristics consisting of a significant enhancement of current at the Si site, diode-like asymmetric current–voltage response, and negative differential resistance are noted for the doped BN monolayer. These features are found to result from new “tunnel” channels induced by the substitutional Si atom near Fermi level in the band gap. The calculated position-projected tunneling currents providing scanning tunneling micrograph clearly discern the site-dependence of the Si atom and can be used to distinguish substitutional sites of atomic dopants in the monolayer.
Ebic Investigation of Hydrogen Passivated Structural Defects in EFG Silicon Ribbon

EBIC contrast of structural defects in as-received and hydrogen passivated polysilicon ribbon is studied using aluminum Schottky barrier diodes. Enhanced charge collection after passivation is demonstrated by comparing the EBIC signal from two sections of a split ribbon, one half of which was passivated. Electrical activity of specific linear defects before and after passivation is examined by recording charge collection profiles across these defects under standardized conditions of beam voltage and current. Such measurements show that passivation does reduce the electrical activity of selected defects. Possible reasons for this behavior will be discussed.
Hormesis does not make sense except in the light of TOR-driven aging.

Weak stresses (including weak oxidative stress, cytostatic agents, heat shock, hypoxia, calorie restriction) may extend lifespan. Known as hormesis, this is the most controversial notion in gerontology. For one, it is believed that aging is caused by accumulation of molecular damage. If so, hormetic stresses (by causing damage) must shorten lifespan. To solve the paradox, it was suggested that, by activating repair, hormetic stresses eventually decrease damage. Similarly, Baron Munchausen escaped from a swamp by pulling himself up by his own hair. Instead, I discuss that aging is not caused by accumulation of molecular damage. Although molecular damage accumulates, organisms do not live long enough to age from this accumulation. Instead, aging is driven by overactivated signal-transduction pathways including the TOR (Target of Rapamycin) pathway. A diverse group of hormetic conditions can be divided into two groups. “Hormesis A” inhibits the TOR pathway. “Hormesis B” increases aging-tolerance, defined as the ability to survive catastrophic complications of aging. Hormesis A includes calorie restriction, resveratrol, rapamycin, p53-inducing agents and, in part, physical exercise, heat shock and hypoxia. Hormesis B includes ischemic preconditioning and, in part, physical exercise, heat shock, hypoxia and medical interventions.
INFLUENCE of PARTICLE ORIENTATION ON the EFFECTIVE ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE and OHMIC HEATING RATE of A LIQUID-PARTICLE MIXTURE

The ohmic heating rate of a liquid-particle mixture is expected to depend on particle orientation. A mathematical model was developed to determine the extent of orientation dependence for the case of a cubic particle. the particle and liquid resistances were determined by taking incremental sections through the particle and using the electrical conductivity to calculate the effective resistance. Modeling and experimental results indicate that for a cubic particle, orientation effects are slight; both with regard to effective resistance and heating time. However, this result is not expected to apply to particles of large aspect ratios.
A precorrected-FFT method for electrostatic analysis of complicated 3-D structures

In this paper we present a new algorithm for accelerating the potential calculation which occurs in the inner loop of iterative algorithms for solving electromagnetic boundary integral equations. Such integral equations arise, for example, in the extraction of coupling capacitances in three-dimensional (3-D) geometries. We present extensive experimental comparisons with the capacitance extraction code FASTCAP and demonstrate that, for a wide variety of geometries commonly encountered in integrated circuit packaging, on-chip interconnect and micro-electro-mechanical systems, the new "precorrected-FFT" algorithm is superior to the fast multipole algorithm used in FASTCAP in terms of execution time and memory use. At engineering accuracies, in terms of a speed-memory product, the new algorithm can be superior to the fast multipole based schemes by more than an order of magnitude.
Face Recognition with Environment Tolerance on a Mobile Device

One of the most logical applications of face recognition for authentication is on mobile handset devices. However, face recognition still faces challenges in providing environment tolerance: being able to compensate for changes in light conditions within an environment where authentication is occurring, due to users carrying their mobile handset devices to different locations with varying and unpredictable sources of illumination. Existing face recognition systems operate by finding fiduciary points relative to the area of the entire face, which becomes their weakness when they are not used in applications where light conditions are fixed and controlled. This research investigates Local Binary Patterns (LBP), an image encoding technique whose origins lie in texture analysis, in order to overcome the problems faced by existing face recognition systems and provide tolerance to variable light conditions. This research aims to utilize LBP on modern mobile handset device hardware that is "off-the-shelf": utilizing only the most basic and widely available onboard imaging hardware and processing capability provided on mobile handset devices of the present day. We have performed rigorous experimentation with LBP both on large databases of images of human faces, as well as developing mobile handset software that was deployed to real users and tested in a field environment. Our experimentation indicates that LBP is capable of being used to develop face recognition systems that provide environment tolerance, potentially finding practical use as a component of mobile device authentication applications.
Randomized trial of vinorelbine compared with fluorouracil plus leucovorin in patients with stage IV non-small-cell lung cancer.

PURPOSEThis prospective randomized trial was performed to compare the effectiveness of intravenous vinorelbine tartrate with intravenous fluorouracil and leucovorin (5-FU/LV) on the primary end points of survival, quality of life (QOL), and relief of cancer-related symptoms in patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Secondary end points included tumor response rates and time to treatment failure. In addition, the safety of both treatment regimens was evaluated in this multicenter study.PATIENTS AND METHODSTwo hundred sixteen patients with stage IV NSCLC were enrolled onto this study from 18 centers. Vinorelbine was administered at a dose of 30 mg/m2/wk. 5-FU/LV was administered at a dose of 425 mg/m2 and 20 mg/m2, respectively, for 5 consecutive days every 4 weeks. Patients with progressive disease or toxicity were removed from study while responding and stable patients were continued on therapy.RESULTSThe median survival time of patients who received vinorelbine was 30 weeks, with 25% ...
Spore ornamentation of North American Phellodon species

Analysis of spore ornamentation in the Basidiomycetes is essential for distinguishing many genera and species (i.e., Inocybe, Laccaria, Lactarius, Russula). Maire (1910) first discussed the value of spore ornamentation in taxonomic studies of the genus Russula. Mueller (1982) used size and shape of spore ornamentation in Laccaria for systematic studies of North American species. Hesler and Smith (1979) found diverse patterns of spore ornamentation within such natural groups as Lactarius subg. Plinthogalus. They stated that this feature is linked with other characters helping to define phylogenetic lines within the genus. Researchers using light microscopy to study North American stipitate hydnums found tuberculate spores in Hydnellum and Sarcodon and echinulate spores in Bankera and Phellodon (Banker, 1906; Coker and Beers, 1951; Miller
Stable Laws and the Imbedding of Lp Spaces

(1973). Stable Laws and the Imbedding of Lp Spaces. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 80, No. 4, pp. 403-407.
Spectral Tracking Using an Oblique Looking, Video Rate, 9-Band, SWIR Multispectral Camera

The effectiveness of the standard adaptive-cosine estimator (ACE) algorithm for spectral tracking in oblique, video-rate, short-wave infrared multispectral imagery is significantly enhanced by normalizing the test spectra prior to evaluation.
The surgical treatment of duodenal, gastric and anastomotic ulcer.

The surgical significance of the anatomic structure and the physiologic function of the various divisions of the stomach are presented, together with a discussion of the relative merits of the most commonly employed surgical operations for duodenal, gastric and anastomotic ulcer.
Temperature sensitivity of molecular oxygen resonant-enhanced multiphoton ionization spectra involving the C 3 Π g intermediate state

The technique of measuring O2 rotational temperature by coherent microwave Rayleigh scattering from resonance-enhanced multiphoton ionization (Radar REMPI) has been studied to determine temperature sensitivity and range. The molecular oxygen Rydberg state of $$\left( {3s\sigma } \right)C{{}^{3}}\Pi_{g} \left( {v^{\prime } = 2} \right)$$ has been selected as the intermediate state in the 2 + 1 REMPI process, which is known to provide a relatively strong REMPI signal. Rotational-resolved spectra representing the two-photon $$C{{}^{3}}\Pi_{g} \left( {v^{\prime } = 2} \right) \leftarrow \leftarrow X{{}^{3}}\varSigma _{g}^{ - } \left( {v^{\prime \prime } = 0} \right)$$ transition have been obtained under several gas conditions including pure oxygen, air-like syngas, ambient air, and flame environments from room temperature (~300 K) to flame temperature (~1700 K). An O2 REMPI spectral model has been developed to simulate the experimental spectral line intensity distribution which is dependent on the O2 ground-state temperature. The model has been verified at a low-temperature condition (~5 K) and then applied to various oxygen environments over an extended temperature range with an overall error of less than ±10 %. The current O2 REMPI spectral model is an improvement over a previously reported version in both accuracy and the quantity of lines fit to provide rotational temperature measurements. This work details an optimized model that fits simulated spectra to full experimental spectral bands over various conditions with a wide temperature range, including both low temperature ( 1300 K).
Analysis on The First Hepatitis B Vaccination for Newborns in Maternity Wards in Hongkou District of Shanghai City,China during 2001～2008

Objective To analyze the first hepatitis B(HB) vaccination for newborns in maternity wards in Hongkou District of Shanghai City during 2001 ～ 2008,and provide a reference for further improvement of immune strategy of HB in newborns.Methods The HB vaccination rate,in time vaccination rate and cause for delayed vaccination,as well as the status of vaccination of newborns from HBsAg-positive mothers all the maternity wards in Hongkou District of Shanghai City during 2001 ～ 2008 were investigated and analyzed.Results Both the first vaccination rate and in time vaccination rate of HB vaccine in each year were more than 96%,which showed significant difference in domestic newborns and those from other places(P 0.05).However,either vaccination rate or in time vaccination rate of newborns from HBsAg-positive and negative mothers showed no significant difference(P 0.05).The first cause(84.49%) for delayed vaccination was the bodyweight(less than 2 500 g) of newborn,of which 46.69% were not less than 2 300 g.Conclusion We suggest that the bodyweight of not less than 2 300 g of a newborn should be included in the indication of HB vaccination so as to increase the vaccination rate and in time vaccination rate.
Neuronal Dynamics and Spatial Foraging.

Foraging is an embodied cognitive process which balances the search constraints of exploration versus exploitation. As such, foraging strategies and mechanisms offer useful insight into abstract forms of search such as visual search, problem solving, and semantic recall. We performed a series of simulations using artificial neural networks to relate metastable neuronal dynamics to observed foraging behaviors. We show that the velocity and tortuosity of the foraging paths are influenced by metastable neuronal activity, while resource collection is unaffected. These initial results indicate that neuronal metastability may contribute to foraging behaviors but additional mechanisms are needed to optimally exploit environmental resources.
Immune correlates of stress and depression.

This paper reviews the evidence for alterations in immunity associated with depression and stressful events. The reviewed studies examine a variety of immune parameters (e.g., mitogen response, natural killer cell activity and number, T-cell, and T-cell subpopulations) in relation to depression and in relation to a number of stressful events (e.g., death of spouse, examinations). There is considerable variability in the findings of the available studies. However, the review finds considerable evidence for an association between a variety of stressful events and lowered immunity and between severe depression and lowered immunity. The clinical relevance of these psychoimmune relationships remains in question.
Trypsin digestion of the inositol trisphosphate receptor: implications for the conformation and domain organization of the protein

Limited digestion of rat cerebellum microsomal vesicles with trypsin resulted in the proteolysis of the 240 kDa inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R) and the formation of a 94 kDa species that remained membrane-bound and retained immunoreactivity to an antibody raised against the C-terminal sequence of this protein. The appearance of the 94 kDa species was associated with a loss of [3H]IP3 binding sites in the membrane and the appearance of [3H]IP3 binding sites in the soluble fraction. The 94 kDa fragment retained reactivity to biotinylated concanavalin A. In vitro phosphorylation of the IP3R in membranes with cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase and [gamma-32P]ATP produced an unlabelled 94 kDa fragment after tryptic digestion. According to current models of the cerebellar IP3R this would place the proteolytic site between the phosphorylation site at serine-1755 and the first transmembrane segment of the IP3R. A second antibody raised to amino acids 401-414 in the N-terminal region of the receptor recognizes a 68 kDa fragment released into the soluble fraction after trypsin treatment. The time course of release of the 68 kDa fragment was correlated with the appearance of soluble binding sites, and the fragment was bound by IP3-Affigel resin. A large proportion of the 68 kDa fragment remained associated with the membrane fraction and could be specifically immunoprecipitated from detergent extracts of digested membranes by anti-C-terminus antibody. Our results provide experimental evidence to further localize the ligand binding domain and suggest that regions of the N-terminus and C-terminus may be non-covalently associated.
Robert Browning (1812–89)

The ironic tone of a comment made in Wordsworth’s letter to Edward Moxon (12 October 1846) guaranteed its rapid circulation in literary circles. Learning of Elizabeth Barrett’s marriage to Robert Browning (12 September), Wordsworth, after expressing a hope that it would be a happy union, added that he did not doubt that ‘they will speak more intelligibly to each other than, not withstanding their abilities, they have yet done to the Public’. (Sordello, notorious for its complex and often obscure language, had been published six years earlier.)
Diagnostic Techniques for Gaseous Flows

A variety of techniques exist that complement or enhance traditional absorption and fluorescence diagnostics. Here we introduce a number of these techniques.