cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Reconstructed cool- and warm-season precipitation over the tribal lands of northeastern Arizona

For over a decade, the Hopi Tribe and Navajo Nation of northeastern Arizona have suffered the effects of persistent drought conditions. Severe dry spells have critically impacted natural ecosystems, water resources, and regional livelihoods including dryland farming and ranching. Drought planning and resource management efforts in the region are based largely on the instrumental climate record, which contains a limited number of severe, sustained droughts. In this study, a new network of moisture-sensitive tree-ring chronologies provides the basis for evaluating the longer-term temporal variability of precipitation in the Four Corners region. By analyzing the earlywood and latewood components within each annual tree ring, we are able to generate separate, centuries-long reconstructions of both cool- (October-April) and warm-season (July-August) precipitation. These proxy records offer new insights into seasonal drought characteristics and indicate that the instrumental record fails to adequately represent precipitation variability over the past 400 years. Through the use of two different analysis techniques, we identify multiyear and decadal-scale drought events more severe than any in the modern era. Furthermore, the reconstructions suggest that many of the historically significant droughts of the past (e.g., 17th century Puebloan drought) were not merely winter phenomena, but persisted through the summer season as well. By comparing these proxy records with historical docu- ments, we are able to independently validate the reconstructions and better understand the socioeconomic and environmental significance of past climate anomalies on the tribal lands of northeastern Arizona.
Dynamic points-to sets: a comparison with static analyses and potential applications in program understanding and optimization

In this paper, we compare the behavior of pointers in C programs, as approximated by static pointer analysis algorithms, with the actual behavior of pointers when these programs are run. In order to perform this comparison, we have implemented several well known pointer analysis algorithms, and we have built an instrumentation infrastructure for tracking pointer values during program execution.Our experiments show that for a number of programs from the Spec95 and Spec2000 benchmark suites, the pointer information produced by existing scalable static pointer analyses is far worse than the actual behavior observed at run-time. These results have two implications. First, a tool like ours can be used to supplement static program understanding tools in situations where the static pointer information is too coarse to be usable. Second, a feedback-directed compiler can use profile data on pointer values to improve program performance by ignoring aliases that do not arise at run time (and inserting appropriate run-time checks to ensure safety). As an example, we were able to obtain a factor of 6 speedup on a frequently executed routine from m88ksim.
Relative intensities and exponential decay of a doublet in N V.

Exponential decay and mean lives of lowest P levels in N V measured with beam foil source, noting agreement with theories taking configuration interaction into account
Analysis of neurological sequelae from radiosurgery of arteriovenous malformations: How location affects outcome

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE To elucidate how the risks of developing temporary and permanent neurological sequelae from radiosurgery for arteriovenous malformations (AVM) are related to AVM location, the addition of stereotactic magnetic resonance (MR) imaging to angiographic targeting, and prior hemorrhage or neurological deficits. MATERIALS AND METHODS We evaluated follow-up imaging and clinical data in 332 AVM patients who received gamma knife radiosurgery at the University of Pittsburgh between 1987 and 1994. All patients had regular clinical or imaging follow-up for a minimum of 2 years (range: 24-96 months, median = 45 months). There were 83 patients with MR-assisted planning, 187 with prior hemorrhages, and 143 with prior neurological deficits. RESULTS Symptomatic postradiosurgery sequelae (any neurological problem including headache) developed in 30 (9%) of 332 patients. Symptoms resolved in 58% of patients within 27 months with a significantly greater proportion (p = 0.006) resolving in patients with Dmin or = 20 Gy (89 vs. 36%). The 7-year actuarial rate for developing persistent symptomatic sequelae was 3.8%. We first evaluated the relative risks for different locations to construct a postradiosurgery injury expression (PIE) score for AVM location. Multivariate logistic regression analysis of symptomatic postradiosurgery sequelae identified independent significant correlations with PIE location score (p = 0.0007) and 12 Gy volume (p = 0.008), but with none of the other factors tested (p > 0.3), including the addition of MR targeting, average radiation dose in 20 cc, prior hemorrhage, or neurological deficit. We used these results to construct a risk prediction model for symptomatic postradiosurgery sequelae. The risk of radiation necrosis was significantly correlated with PIE score (p < 0.048), but not with 12-Gy volume. CONCLUSION The risks of developing complications from AVM radiosurgery can be predicted according to location with the PIE score, in conjunction with the 12-Gy treatment volume. Further study of factors affecting persistence of these sequelae (progression to radiation necrosis) is needed.
Trait mindfulness and catastrophizing as mediators of the association between pain severity and pain-related impairment

Abstract The present study examined dispositional mindfulness and pain catastrophizing as mediators of the relation between pain severity and pain-related impairment controlling for pain acceptance in a group of college students classified as either low ( N = 177) or high ( N = 158) in pain severity. We tested a three-path model of the following sequence: pain severity → trait mindfulness → pain catastrophizing → pain-related impairment. Structural equation modeling indicated good fit of the proposed model to the data. Mediational analyses with percentile bootstrapping revealed that mindfulness mediated the relations between pain severity and (a) catastrophizing; and (b) pain-related impairment. Unexpectedly, after controlling for mindfulness and pain acceptance, catastrophizing was not significantly associated with pain-related impairment. Several explanations are provided for the null effect of pain catastrophizing on pain-related impairment. Finally, future research directions are discussed.
Technical Note-Measuring Equity in Public Risk

An equitable distribution of risk is often an important criterion in the evaluation of technological and environmental risks. In this paper, we define the concept of equity precisely, and develop measures for ex-post and ex-ante equity. We then show how these measures, combined with information on the number of possible fatalities, can be used to rank alternatives that involve risks to human life.
Prenatal diagnosis and management of bilateral hydronephrosis

This report reviews the management of the fetus with congenital hydronephrosis (CH), a challenging diagnostic and therapeutic problem. Experimental models of obstructive uropathy have produced histologic changes similar to those seen in kidneys of human neonates with congenital hydronephrosis. Relief of obstruction in utero in these models has been shown to prevent some of the dysplastic changes caused by obstruction. These studies have formed the theoretical basis for in utero decompression to restore amniotic fluid dynamics to prevent death from pulmonary hypoplasia, and reverse or arrest dysplastic morphogenesis. The development of prognostic criteria has greatly aided in selection of appropriate fetuses for intervention. These criteria include: (1) Na<100 mEq/l; (2) Cl<90 mEq/l; (3) osmolarity <210 mosmol; (4) sonographic appearance of the fetal kidneys; (5) amniotic fluid status; (6) urine output at fetal bladder catheterization. All fetuses should have ultrasonography to exclude other anomalies, and karyotype analysis to exclude chromosomal abnormality. If amniotic fluid volume is normal, the pregnancy is followed with serial ultrasound examinations. If oligohydramnios develops, a prognostic evaluation is performed, including fetal bladder catheterization. If the fetus has poor residual renal function, on the basis of prognostic criteria, appropriate counseling may be given. If the fetus has good residual renal function, depending on lung maturity, it can be delivered early for corrective surgery. If diagnosed prior to lung maturity in utero, decompression by either vesicoamniotic shunting or open fetal surgery may be attempted in the highly selected case. Very few fetuses with CH will require in utero decompression, but all benefit from early diagnosis allowing preparation for postnatal care. Open fetal surgery should be considered an experimental therapy until efficacy and safety are established in controlled trials.
Cross talk between peptide growth factor and estrogen receptor signaling systems.

Epidermal growth factor reproduces many of the effects of estrogen on the murine female reproductive tract and may partially mediate estrogen-induced growth and differentiation. The mechanism by which the actions of estrogens and epidermal growth factor (EGF) converge is unknown. The studies described herein were performed to investigate the possibility that some of the actions of EGF may be mediated through the estrogen receptor. A specific estrogen receptor (ER) antagonist inhibited estrogenlike effects of EGF in the mouse uterus, specifically induction of DNA synthesis and phosphatidylinositol turnover. In addition, EGF elicited enhanced nuclear localization of uterine ER and formation of a unique nuclear form of ER that is present after estrogen treatment. These in vivo observations indicated that EGF may elicit some of its actions by activation of nuclear ER. Thus, the effect of peptide growth factors on activation of a consensus estrogen response element was assessed in Ishikawa human endometrial adenocarcinoma cells, which contain negligible ER levels, and in BG-1 human ovarian adenocarcinoma cells, which contain abundant ER. EGF and TGF alpha induced transcriptional activation of a consensus estrogen response element (ERE) in an ER-dependent manner in both cell types. In addition, insulinlike growth factor I (IGF-I) was as potent as 17 beta-estradiol in BG-1 cells. Synergism between growth factors and estrogen was observed in both cell types, although synergism was not observed between the different classes of growth factors [i.e., transforming growth factor alpha (TGF alpha) and IGF-I] in BG-1 cells. The most potent activator of ERE-dependent transcription was a protein kinase C activator (TPA), which acted synergistically with 17 beta-estradiol. A protein kinase C inhibitor abolished the effect of TPA but not that of 17 beta-estradiol, IGF-I, or TGF alpha. A protein kinase A activator elicited ER-dependent activation of transcription and did not synergize with estrogen or growth factors. In conclusion, some physiologic actions of peptide growth factors are dependent on ER. Indeed, growth factors are capable of eliciting ER-dependent activation of an ERE. Both the protein kinase A and protein kinase C pathways can elicit ER-dependent transcriptional activation; however, it is unlikely that these pathways mediate the effects of peptide growth factors on the ER in BG-1 cells.
SMUG1 but not UNG DNA glycosylase contributes to the cellular response to recovery from 5-fluorouracil induced replication stress.

Abstract 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is a widely utilized cancer chemotherapeutic that causes DNA damage via two mechanisms. Its active metabolite inhibits thymidylate synthase, which deprives cells of TTP and causes the introduction of uracil in DNA. Also, 5-FU is directly incorporated into DNA. Both uracil and 5-FU in DNA are recognized by uracil-DNA glycosylases (UDGs), which initiate base excision repair. UNG and SMUG1 are the two human UDGs most likely to combat the genomic incorporation of uracil and 5-FU during replication. In this study, we examined the roles of UNG and SMUG1 in the initial cellular response to 5-FU and compared continuous exposure to a 24 h exposure followed by incubation in drug-free media, which mimics what occurs clinically. Loss of UNG did not alter cellular sensitivity to 5-FU in two human cell lines, despite its predominant biochemical activity for uracil and 5-FU in DNA. Loss of SMUG1 corresponded with >2-fold increase in sensitivity to 5-FU, but only with a 24 h treatment followed by recovery. There was no difference between SMUG1 proficient and depleted cells following continuous exposure. We observed that 5-FU treatment induced an enhanced S-phase arrest and CHK1 activation plus an increase in the formation of strand breaks and alkali-labile sites in all sublines. However, SMUG1-depleted cells showed a prolonged S-phase arrest, a transient increase in DNA double-strand breaks following 5-FU treatment and an altered phosphorylation of CHK1 following removal of drug. Collectively, the results suggest that SMUG1 has a role in the resumption of replication following 5-FU treatment.
Structural determinations using scaled moments of inertia: Further tests with heavy-atom systems

Abstract The scaled moment of inertia theory described previously has been used to compute experimental near-equilibrium structures (rmϱ) for several heavy-atom triatomic molecules including SO2, S2O, and ClNO. The results in all cases are in generally better agreement with the known re structures than are the conventional rs structures. Computations of the vibration-rotation parameters involved in the theory, using anharmonic model force fields, have aided understanding of the sucess of the method. They have shown also that reliable structures can be expected when the “parent” molecule is either an all heavy-isotope isotopomer or an all light-isotope isotopomer. In conjunction with earlier work, the present results suggest that rmϱ structures should provide reliable alternatives or substitutes for rm structures with no increase in data requirements.
Heterosis for protein, digestibility, fiber, and water soluble carbohydrates in nine sources of orchardgrass germplasm

Orchardgrass, or cocksfoot, (Dactylis glomerata L.) is one of the most important forage grasses used in temperate agriculture. Yet, genetic gains are slow and complicated owing to the perennial and autotetraploid nature of orchardgrass. The development of orchardgrass population hybrids may be a way to more efficiently make genetic gains through heterosis. In the study reported herein, we describe the results of a 3 year study of the effect of heterosis on the forage quality of orchardgrass population hybrids managed with supplemental irrigation at a Cache County, UT, USA field site. The population hybrids derived from the orchardgrass cultivars Latar, Paiute, and Potomac; and from six additional germplasm sources from Asia, Europe, and North America. Data reflected July and August harvests from 2008 to 2010 and included crude protein (CP), in vitro true digestibility (IVTD), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and water soluble carbohydrates (WSC). There were differences (P < 0.05) among the population hybrids and the included check cultivars for each of the traits at both harvest points. Mid-parent heterosis was relatively common and there were several instances of high-parent heterosis and reciprocal effects. Additionally, the population hybrids possessed better mean phenotypic values than the cultivars for July CP (2 g kg−1), and August CP (4 g kg−1), IVTD (7 g kg−1), NDF (−9 g kg−1), and WSC (4 g kg−1). Overall, the results suggest that population hybrids may prove a feasible approach for orchardgrass forage quality improvement.
Cerebral granulomatous angiitis associated with isolation of human T-lymphotropic virus type III from the central nervous system

A 42-year-old homosexual man without evidence of immune deficiency developed cerebral granulomatous angiitis in association with the isolation of human T-lymphotropic virus type III (HTLV-III) from brain tissue and cerebrospinal fluid. This syndrome may be an additional neurological sequela of HTLV-III infection.
A computer spreadsheet program to estimate the cost of raising dairy replacements

Abstract In response to a dairy operator's request for help in evaluating heifer replacement costs, a worksheet was developed (using Lotus 1-2-3tm) to assess the cost of raising calves. Specific categories relating to calf raising were compiled and measures for calculations were established to determine variable and fixed costs. Testing and implementation of the spreadsheet were carried out on several large-scale dairies, with the individual dairy operators providing cost and population information pertaining to each of the categories. The worksheet provides a way to calculate fixed and variable calf-raising costs for calves of varying age-groups and weights.
A correlation of seedling height and chromosomal damage in irradiated barley seeds

Abstract The most commonly used measurement of radiation damage to seeds is seedling height, the mean height a lot of seeds attains at some time during exponential growth. If planted immediately post-irradiation, seeds of a dose lot give a normal height distribution, but if stored before planting give very abnormal and even bimodal height distributions. By within-seed comparisons of chromosome abnormality (from roots excised at 24–36 hr) with height (attained by 7–9 days) in irradiated barley seeds, it is shown that damage to height and to chromosomes are closely correlated, even within a treatment in which great heterogeneity occurs. The two effects have equal radiosensitivity, but different shoulders to their dose curves. Seedling height is not depressed until 25–30 per cent of the cells bear chromosomal abnormalities. The heterogeneity observed is not due to a between-seed heterogeneity in dose or in oxygen content, and probably not in moisture. These experiments show that the heterogeneity arises from factors that operate on post-irradiation (indirect) storage damage, but are without effect on during-irradiation damage (direct).
Diminishing downsides of Data Mining

Data Mining (DM) helps deliver tremendous insights for businesses into the problems they face and aids in identifying new opportunities. It further helps businesses to solve more complex problems and make smarter decisions. DM is a potentially powerful tool for companies; however, more research is needed to measure the benefits of DM. This paper represents a study of the effectiveness of DM in a commercial perspective. First, statistical issues are given. It is followed by data accuracy and standardisation. Diverse problems related to the information used for conducting a DM research are identified. Also, the technical challenges and potential roadblocks in an organisation itself are described.
Paired-ion Reversed-Phase High-Pressure Liquid Chromatographic Assay of Pentobarbital–Pyrilamine Suppositories

The assay of suppositories containing pentobarbital and/or pyrilamine in a water-soluble polyethylene glycol base by high-pressure liquid chromatography is described. No extraction is required. The suppository is dissolved in the mobile phase. This solution is diluted with an internal standard stock solution containing phenobarbital. Chromatographic conditions include a Cig bonded microporous silica column and a mobile phase of 65% 4 × 10− 3 M n -butyl sodium sulfonate in 1% acetic acid and 35% acetonitrile. The procedure using commercial products gave results comparable to those obtained by GLC.
Synthesis of 4-thio-dD-mannose

Abstract 1,6-Anhydro-4- S -benzoyl-4-thio-β- D -mannopyranose, obtained by treatment of 1,6:3,4-dianhydro-β- D -talopyranose with pyridinium thiolbenzoate in N , N -di-methylformamide, was converted into its 2,3-di- O -acetyl derivative, which was acetolyzed to give 1,2,3,6-tetra- O -acetyl-4- S -benzoyl-4-thio- D -mannopyranose. Deacylation of the last-named compound with sodium methoxide in methanol gave syrupy 4-thio- D -mannose, which was characterized as 1,2,3,5,6-penta- O -acetyl-4-thio-α- and -β- D -mannofuranose.
Patterns of transgene expression and viral clearance from the transplanted liver following ex vivo adenovirus-mediated gene transfer.

Background/Aims In the rat liver transplant model, the liver graft can be transduced ex vivo by adenovirus encoding CTLA-4Ig (AdCTLA-4Ig) to achieve high level of immunosuppression in the liver after transplantation. To characterize the pattern of transgene expression following ex vivo gene transfer to the liver and examine whether immunosuppression would promote adenovirus persistence, we followed the life span of vector DNA and transgene expression in the transplanted liver. Methods Rat liver grafts were perfused ex vivo with adenovirus carrying the reporter gene β-galactosidase (Ad lacZ ). The period of transgene expression was assessed at predetermined intervals after transplantation into syngeneic, allogeneic or nude (athymic) recipients. Clearance of vector DNA was assessed by PCR analysis of liver DNA after transplantation. Results Graft transduction with AdCTLA-4Ig or systemic cyclosporine treatment effectively abrogated the alloimmune response but did not result in sustained lacZ expression. The course of viral DNA clearance from the liver was also unaffected by immunosuppression as was the implied nucleolytic cleavage of viral DNA. Conclusions In the transplant setting, local expression of CTLA-4Ig or systemic immunosuppression does not solve the problem of viral clearance from the liver. Non-adaptive immune mechanisms may have a significant role in the host response to adenovirus after liver transplantation.
Patient-specific explanation in models of chronic disease

Clinical models of chronic disease characteristically must represent significant uncertainty in both the data input and inferences. This lack of determinism makes it especially difficult for system users to understand and have confidence in the models. This paper presents a representation for uncertainty and patient preferences that serves as a framework for graphical summary and computer-generated explanation of patient-specific clinical decision models. The implementation described is a computer decision aid designed to enhance the clinician-patient consultation process for patients with suspected angina pectoris. The generic angina model is represented as a Bayesian decision network, where the patient descriptors, probabilities, and preferences are treated as random variables. The initial distributions for these variables represent information on the population of patients with anginal symptoms, and the approach provides a method for efficiently tailoring the distributions to an individual patient. This framework also provides metrics for judging the importance of each variable in the model. The graphical interface uses this information to augment the display of a network representation of the model. Variables that are important for clinician-patient communication are highlighted in the graphical display of the network and included in the text explanation in printed patient-education materials. These techniques serve to keep the explanation of the patient's decision model concise, allowing the communication with the patient to focus on the most important aspects of the treatment decision.
Ungulate flight responses to human disturbance: a review and meta-analysis.

As human recreation in natural areas increases, so does the potential for disturbance to wildlife, and many factors (environmental, disturbance type, experience with humans) influence the impact of disturbance. However, there exists no comprehensive examination of the effects of human disturbance on ungulate escape responses. I conducted a comprehensive review of studies measuring Artiodactyl escape responses (e.g., flight initiation distance, distance moved) to experimental harassment by humans and vehicles, and meta-analyses aimed at predictive questions about the impact of human disturbance on ungulate behavior under an optimization framework. I found evidence across studies that ungulates pay attention to approacher behavior, have greater perceptions of risk when disturbed in open habitats, and females or groups with young offspring show greater flight responses than adult groups. Increased group size and the presence of hunting showed weak but positive heterogeneous effects on flight behavior both between and within species. Humans on foot were more evocative than other stimuli (vehicles, noises). Populations in areas with higher levels of human traffic showed reduced wariness but a lack of alternative sites to move to may explain some of this effect. Hunted populations showed significantly greater flight responses than non-hunted populations. Finally, I suggest five factors to consider when forming predictive models of ungulate flight behavior: (1) how seasonal variation in reproductive status and body condition effects wariness, (2) the relative impacts of lethal and non-lethal human contact, and (3) unique natural history traits that may cause differences in flight behavior between populations, (4) the availability of alternative sites, and (5) shorter distances between feeding sites and refugia can reduce the impact of other factors on flight responses.
Induction of transgene expression in Tg.AC(v-Ha-ras) transgenic mice concomitant with DNA hypomethylation.

Tg.AC transgenic mice have a transgene composed of a zeta-globin transcriptional control region, a v-Ha-ras coding region, and a simian virus 40 3' polyadenylation signal sequence. Induced ectopic expression of the transgene by chemical treatment or full-skin-thickness wounding leads to the development of skin papillomas. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction assays and protein blotting indicated that the transgene was expressed 16-28 d after full-skin-thickness surgical wounding. Normal unwounded skin did not express the transgene. DNA blotting indicated that the position of the transgene remained stable during wound-induced tumorigenesis. Concomitant with the v-Ha-ras mRNA and protein expression was the hypomethylation of specific MspI/HpaII sites within the transgene. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that hypomethylation is required for the induced and sustained expression of the Tg.AC v-Ha-ras transgene in spontaneous and induced tumors in Tg.AC mice.
Calabi-Yau Black Holes

We have found the entropy of N=2 extreme black holes associated with general Calabi-Yau moduli space and prepotential F = d{sub ABC}X{sup A}X{sup B}X{sup c}/X{sup 0}. We show that for arbitrary d{sub ABC} and black hole charges p and q the entropy-area formula depends on combinations of these charges and parameters d{sub ABC}. These combinations are the solutions of the simple system of algebraic equations. We gave a few examples of particular Calabi-Yau moduli space for which this system has an explicit solution. For special case when one of black hole charges is equal to zero (p{sup 0} = 0) the solution always exists.
Critical development periods for inhibition of ornithine decarboxylase by α-difluoromethylornithine: Effects on ontogeny of sensorimotor behavior

Abstract The roles of ornithine decarboxylase and the polyamines in behavioral development were examined through the use of α-difluoromethyl-ornithine, a specific irreversible inhibitor of ornithine decarboxylase. α-Difluoromethylornithine was administered either prenatally during gestation (days 15–17) or postnatally (days 1–20) to examine critical periods of sensitivity. Prenatal α-difluoromethylornithine administration resulted in a deficit in early sensorimotor ontogeny: latencies in surface righting reflex (postnatal days 1–5) and negative geotaxis (postnatal days 5–8) were prolonged, and time spent pivoting (postnatal days 7, 9, and 11) was reduced. In contrast, postnatal α-difluoromethylornithine primarily influenced later maturing, complex integrative behaviors such as swimming and open field activity. Thus, the behavioral effects of α-difluoromethylornithine exposure are highly dependent upon the age at which the drug is administered, a finding in keeping with the participation of the ornithine decarboxylase/polyamine system in cell replication and differentiation during discrete periods of neural development. The behavioral consequences of ornithine decarboxylase inhibition during these critical periods are thus related primarily both to the timetable for cellular maturation in each brain region.
Non-intersection exponents for Brownian paths. Part I: Existence and an invariance principle

LetX andY be independent 3-dimensional Brownian motions,X(0)=(0,0,0),Y(0)=(1,0,0) and letp r =P(X[0,r] ⋂Y[0,r]=∅). Then the “non-intersection exponent” $$\mathop {\lim }\limits_{r \to \infty } - {{\log p_{_r } } \mathord{\left/ {\vphantom {{\log p_{_r } } {\log r}}} \right. \kern-\nulldelimiterspace} {\log r}}$$ exists and is equal to a similar “non-intersection exponent” for random walks. Analogous results hold inR 2 and for more than 2 paths.
The Impact of Changes in Water Level and Human Development on Forage Fish Assemblages in Great Lakes Coastal Marshes

Changes in water levels and development of shorelines are expected to negatively affect coastal marshes. The small-bodied fish assemblage was sampled in the inner marsh vegetation zone in five Les Cheneaux bays with differing levels of development. Observations were made from 1996 to 2004 during which time summer water levels varied from 177.2 m to 176.0 m (chart datum = 176.0 m). Each marsh was sampled for 10 consecutive days in July and August using gangs of five baited commercial minnow traps. Assemblage composition was assayed by species richness, the number of native minnow species, the percentage of selected tolerant fishes (bowfin, Amia calva, mudminnow, Umbra limi, common carp, Cyprinus carpio, and brown bullhead, Ameiurus nebulosus), and catch-per-unit-effort (CPUE). There were no consistent relationships between fish assemblage measures and year, water level, annual change in water level, exposure, and water temperature. Fish assemblage measures except CPUE were impacted by the density of building along the shoreline, a measure of development. Impervious surface area was < 4.5% and was not consistently related to fish assemblage measures.
A Monte Carlo approach to calculating probabilities for continuous identity by descent data

Two related individuals are identical by descent at a genetic locus if they share the same gene copy at that locus due to inheritance from a recent common ancestor. We consider idealized continuous identity by descent (IBD) data in which IBD status is known continuously along chromosomes. IBD data contains information about the relationship between the two individuals, and about the underlying crossover processes. We present a Monte Carlo method for calculating probabilities for IBD data. The method is not restricted to Haldane's Poisson process model of crossing-over but may be used with other models including the chi-square, Kosambi renewal and Sturt models. Results of a simulation study demonstrate that IBD data can be used to distinguish between alternative models for the crossover process.
Sequence Distribution Analysis of Isobutyiene—Styrene and Isobutylene—Isoprene Copolymers

Abstract The sequence distribution of isobutylene-styrene and isobutylene-isoprene copolymers prepared with EtAlCl2 in CH3C1 diluent at -100°C have been investigated by the use of PMR spectroscopy. The basis for PMR analysis was the great environmental sensitivity of the chemical shifts of gem-dimethyl groups. A variety of calculation methods indicate that the isobutylene-styrene pair does not give random copolymers, and that the simple two parameter copolymeriza-tion model cannot be used to describe correctly the system. In contrast, poly(isobutylene-co− isoprene) is a perfectly random copolymer.
Brain Correlates of Cognitive Remediation in Schizophrenia: Activation Likelihood Analysis Shows Preliminary Evidence of Neural Target Engagement

Cognitive remediation training (CRT) for schizophrenia has been found to improve cognitive functioning and influence neural plasticity. However, with various training approaches and mixed findings, the mechanisms driving generalization of cognitive skills from CRT are unclear. In this meta-analysis of extant imaging studies examining CRT's effects, we sought to clarify whether varying approaches to CRT suggest common neural changes and whether such mechanisms are restorative or compensatory. We conducted a literature search to identify studies appropriate for inclusion in an activation likelihood estimation (ALE) meta-analysis. Our criteria required studies to consist of training-based interventions designed to improve patients' cognitive or social functioning, including generalization to untrained circumstances. Studies were also required to examine changes in pre- vs posttraining functional activation using functional magnetic resonance imaging or positron emission tomography. The literature search identified 162 articles, 9 of which were appropriate for inclusion. ALE analyses comparing pre- and posttraining brain activation showed increased activity in the lateral and medial prefrontal cortex (PFC), parietal cortex, insula, and the caudate and thalamus. Notably, activation associated with CRT in the left PFC and thalamus partially overlapped with previous meta-analytically identified areas associated with deficits in working memory, executive control, and facial emotion processing in schizophrenia. We conclude that CRT interventions from varying theoretic modalities elicit plasticity in areas that support cognitive and socioemotional processes in this early set of studies. While preliminary, these changes appear to be both restorative and compensatory, though thalamocortical areas previously associated with dysfunction may be common sources of plasticity for cognitive remediation in schizophrenia.
Investigating obesity risk-reduction behaviours and psychosocial factors in Chinese Americans

Aim:The purpose of this research was to examine the attitudes, beliefs and behaviours related to obesity risk reduction in Chinese Americans.Methods:A questionnaire was administered to a convenienc...
Simultaneous restoration and segmentation using cluster approximations to Markov random fields

We describe a Bayesian estimator for simultaneous restoration and segmentation of images. The estimator is based on a pixel-line Markov random field and is computed by using an efficient approximation. The approximation is based on locality of interactions within the Markov random field. An example, the simultaneous restoration and segmentation of a medical tomographic image, is described.
Recognition of Staphylococcus aureus-derived peptidoglycan (PGN) but not intact bacteria is mediated by CD14 in microglia

Recognition of Staphylococcus aureus and its cell-wall component peptidoglycan (PGN) by microglia is mediated, in part, by Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2). However, the pattern recognition receptor (PRR) CD14 can also bind PGN and enhance TLR2-mediated signaling in macrophages, suggesting a similar phenomenon might occur in microglia. To assess the functional significance of CD14 on microglial activation, we evaluated the responses of primary microglia isolated from CD14 knockout (KO) and wild type (WT) mice. PGN-dependent microglial activation was partially CD14-dependent as demonstrated by the attenuated expression of TNF-α, macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2/CXCL2), and the soluble PRR pentraxin-3 in CD14 KO microglia compared to WT cells. In contrast, microglial responses to intact S. aureus occurred primarily via a CD14-independent manner. Collectively, these findings reveal the complex nature of gram-positive bacterial recognition by microglia, which occurs, in part, via CD14.
Salome and Elektra: Sisters or Strangers

Many critics have noted the similarity between Oscar Wilde's Salome and Hugo von Hofmannsthal's Elektra but few have seen the differences. Richard Strauss's operatic versions have emphasized this likeness. There is, however, a distinct difference in the atmosphere and form of the two plays, the psychological treatment of the characters, and the aesthetic purposes of the authors. the atmosphere of Salome is multi-colored and oriental; that of Elektra is dark and reflects the barbarity of its Bronze-Age background. Wilde's play is language-oriented (it is a lyric drama) whereas Hofmannsthal's play is far more dramatic, using Freudian psychology to interpret an ancient myth. Thus, Salome displays almost no Aristotelian dianoia, while Elektra depends heavily upon it. In conclusion the plays are neither similar as the critics and Strauss thought nor as dissimilar as Hofmannsthal thought, but related all the same.
An examination of the transactional relationship between online travel agencies, travel meta sites, and suppliers

Purpose – The purpose of this paper was to explore the ways travel intermediaries (online travel agencies (OTAs) and travel meta sites) used throughout the distribution value chain engaged in relationships with travel suppliers.Design/methodology/approach – The multiple‐case study approach is suitable in examining contemporary events in their natural context. A commonly reported strength of the case study approach in that a variety of evidence can be used to investigate the subject matter. The data evidence gathered for this paper came from field study interviews and document analysis.Findings – The results show that the relationship structure has an impact on the type of contractual agreement OTAs and meta sites have with travel suppliers and with each other.Practical implications – These results can be used by top‐level executives involved in online travel as they research and test how to best craft their relationship and formal or informal agreements with their suppliers, affiliates, and other entities...
A Salmonella Small Non-Coding RNA Facilitates Bacterial Invasion and Intracellular Replication by Modulating the Expression of Virulence Factors

Small non-coding RNAs (sRNAs) that act as regulators of gene expression have been identified in all kingdoms of life, including microRNA (miRNA) and small interfering RNA (siRNA) in eukaryotic cells. Numerous sRNAs identified in Salmonella are encoded by genes located at Salmonella pathogenicity islands (SPIs) that are commonly found in pathogenic strains. Whether these sRNAs are important for Salmonella pathogenesis and virulence in animals has not been reported. In this study, we provide the first direct evidence that a pathogenicity island-encoded sRNA, IsrM, is important for Salmonella invasion of epithelial cells, intracellular replication inside macrophages, and virulence and colonization in mice. IsrM RNA is expressed in vitro under conditions resembling those during infection in the gastrointestinal tract. Furthermore, IsrM is found to be differentially expressed in vivo, with higher expression in the ileum than in the spleen. IsrM targets the mRNAs coding for SopA, a SPI-1 effector, and HilE, a global regulator of the expression of SPI-1 proteins, which are major virulence factors essential for bacterial invasion. Mutations in IsrM result in disregulation of expression of HilE and SopA, as well as other SPI-1 genes whose expression is regulated by HilE. Salmonella with deletion of isrM is defective in bacteria invasion of epithelial cells and intracellular replication/survival in macrophages. Moreover, Salmonella with mutations in isrM is attenuated in killing animals and defective in growth in the ileum and spleen in mice. Our study has shown that IsrM sRNA functions as a pathogenicity island-encoded sRNA directly involved in Salmonella pathogenesis in animals. Our results also suggest that sRNAs may represent a distinct class of virulence factors that are important for bacterial infection in vivo.
Propagation of self-focusing laser pulses in atmosphere: Experiment versus numerical simulation

Numerical simulations of self-focusing laser pulses obtained via a slowly evolving wave approach (modified nonlinear Schrodinger equation) are compared with published experimental results in fused silica as well as with experimental results in air and fused silica obtained in our laboratory. The mathematical model includes group-velocity dispersion and third-order dispersion, optical shock, and both instantaneous Kerr and delayed Raman nonlinearities as well as a perfectly matched layer absorbing boundary condition. Second-harmonic frequency-resolved optical gating data taken after 10.91 m of propagation allow a direct comparison between experimental and computational envelopes at a number of pulse energies. FWHM measurements of the spectral width, intensity autocorrelation duration, and pulse radius at distances of 4.35, 10.91, 17.47, and 22.73 m provide a view of model fidelity across both energy and propagation distance variables. The magnitude of the nonlinear refractive index, n2, is inferred.
Machine learning classification of resting state functional connectivity predicts smoking status.

Machine learning-based approaches are now able to examine functional magnetic resonance imaging data in a multivariate manner and extract features predictive of group membership. We applied support vector machine-based classification to resting state functional connectivity data from nicotine-dependent smokers and healthy controls to identify brain-based features predictive of nicotine dependence. By employing a network-centered approach, we observed that within-network functional connectivity measures offered maximal information for predicting smoking status, as opposed to between-network connectivity, or the representativeness of each individual node with respect to its parent network. Further, our analysis suggests that connectivity measures within the executive control and frontoparietal networks are particularly informative in predicting smoking status. Our findings suggest that machine learning-based approaches to classifying resting state functional connectivity data offer a valuable alternative technique to understanding large-scale differences in addiction-related neurobiology.
Genistein inhibition of fast Na+ current in uterine leiomyosarcoma cells is independent of tyrosine kinase inhibition

Abstract Possible regulation of fast Na + channels by tyrosine kinase was examined in a human uterine smooth muscle cell line, using whole-cell voltage clamp (at a holding potential of −90 mV). Bath application of genistein, an inhibitor of tyrosine kinase, decreased the fast Na + current ( I Na( f ) ) dose-dependently. The maximal inhibition of I Na(f) was 98%, and the concentration for half-maxima inhibition (IC 50 ) was 9 μM. The effect of genistein was rapidly reversible. Daidzein, an inactive analog of genistein, had a similar inhibitory effect on I Na(f) . These results suggest that the fast Na + channels in uterine sarcoma cells may be directly blocked by genistein and daidzein, i.e., their effect may be independent of tyrosine kinase inhibition.
Neoplastic disease and thyrotoxicosis.

The relationship of thyrotoxicosis and malignancy has been studied in a cancer center. There was a lower incidence of cancer in patients with hyperthyroidism (25%) than in admissions generally (59.8%) but this probably represents a sampling difference. Of 300 women with thyrotoxicosis, 83 had neoplastic disease. Of the women with hyperthyroidism and cancer (excluding thyroid and skin malignancies), 56% had breast primaries. This is significantly different from the 36% incidence of breast cancer among all women with malignant neoplasms at the center. The incidence of hyperthyroidism was only 0.25% in females with breast cancer but the diagnosis of both diseases was made in 21 of 40 women within the same year. Such a time-linked occurrence is statistically significant. No effect on survival was demonstrated. The significance of these findings is discussed.
Life problems, social supports, and psychological functioning of emotionally disturbed and well low‐income women

The relationship between stressful life events, social supports, and psychological functioning was examined in a low-income population of schizophrenic, depressed, and well mothers of young children. It was expected that the disturbed populations and those rated lowest on psychological functioning would have the most problems and the fewest resources. A buffering effect was hypothesized such that for the individuals with many problems, those with many resources would show better functioning than those with few resources. The results indicated that neither number of problems nor number of resources was related significantly to levels of psychological functioning. For disturbed women, having fewer problems may be associated with higher functioning. Both schizophrenic and depressed women reported more problems, but also more resources, than well women. Finally, having many resources did not affect the level of functioning of those with many stressful life events. Results were interpreted as failing to support the buffering hypothesis. Alternative explanations are proposed in terms of factors predisposing to vulnerability (e.g., low self-esteem) and alternative conceptualizations of social support.
A comparison of surface roughness of pipes as measured by two profilometers and atomic force microscopy

The objective of this study was to develop a reliable method for the measurement of pipe surface roughness. Roughness of coated pipe was measured with two linear surface profilers, a Dektak3ST® and a Hommel T 1000, and a Dimension 3000® atomic force microscope (AFM). Arithmetic roughness (Ra), root mean square roughness (Rq), and mean peak-to-valley height (RZD) were statistically analyzed. Each instrument yielded reliable results, but there were significant differences between the AFM and the other two instruments. The ability of RZD to ignore intermediate height data while focusing on extreme height data made it a useful parameter for detecting differences in height that would be the most likely to affect fluid flow in pipes.
Discrimination between living and heat-killed prey by a marine zooflagellate, Paraphysomonas vestita (Stokes)

Abstract A recombination-deficient strain (EM 1035) of Escherichia coli (Migula) was used to test the ability of the marine zooflagellate Paraphysomonas vestita (Stokes) to discriminate between living and heat-killed prey of similar size and morphology. Cell division of EM 1035 was prevented by relatively short exposure to UV-irradiation. Fluorescent staining with rhodamine isothiocyanate did not affect the viability of the bacterial cells or the growth and feeding rates of the zooflagellate. P. vestita fed preferentially on living cells when presented with an equal density mixture of heat-killed and UV-irradiated (nondividing) cells. The flagellate discriminated between living and dead cells with a preference ratio of about 20 suggesting that chemosensory cues may be important in the feeding selectivity of some marine protozoans.
What is your nutrition program missing? Finding answers with the guide for Effective Nutrition Interventions and Education (GENIE).

to guide the development of nutrition education programs, or to evaluate program plans or proposals. GENIE has been validated across a wide range of nutrition education program proposals, 12 giving this tool the unique ability to compare disparate programs. This article describes a literature review in which GENIE was used to assess and compare published program descriptions and to: 1) identify qualities of nutrition education programs commonly present or absent in both high-scoring and lower-scoring interventions when assessed with GENIE; 2) provide examples of high-scoring programs in each category; and 3) determine the relationship between GENIE score and program outcomes.