cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Gulf Stream and Ring Feature Analyses for Forecast Model Validation

Abstract A series of Gulf Stream forecast model test cases were developed for the Data Assimilation and Model Evaluation Experiment (DAMEE). The model initialization and verification procedure relies heavily on a series of accurate synoptic snapshots of the Gulf Stream north wall and ring locations. Satellite infrared imagery, Geosat altimetry, and numerous in situ temperature profiles were combined using a geographic information system to construct Gulf Stream and ring location analyses at approximately weekly intervals during a 6-week, data-rich time period. To improve the accuracy of the feature analyses, a new image compositing technique called patching was developed to decrease the spatial smearing experienced with standard warmest pixel composites. During the 6-week test period, three ring formations, two ring absorptions, and one ring merger event were observed. The average difference between the weekly north wall positions ranged from 20 to 34 km (average 27 km). When the DAMEE GSR north wall posi...
Free serum prostate-specific antigen and screening for prostate cancer.

To the Editor. —We read with great interest the article by Dr Catalona and colleagues. 1 We have performed a similar study in a screening population with quite similar results. 2 We used a different assay (Deltia ProStatus PSA Free/Total assay of Wallac Oy Company, Turkey, Finland) that automatically measures both free and total prostate-specific antigen (PSA) equimolarly at the same time in one sample. The most prominent conclusion from the article by Catalona et al is that percent free PSA (or free/total [F/T] ratio) increases specificity to predict positive prostate biopsies in men with prostate gland volume of 40 cm 3 or more in the PSA range between 4.0 and 10.0 ng/mL at a sensitivity level of 90%. In that group, 38% of biopsies could have been avoided at the cost of 10% loss of detection, independent of the result of digital rectal examination (DRE). In the subgroup of
Visual extinction : The effect of temporal and spatial bias

Unlike patients with neglect, neurological patients with extinction can detect a single event presented at any location. However, when shown two brief near-simultaneous stimuli they only report the ipsilesional item. The question of what inter-stimulus delay leads to maximal extinction has clear clinical and theoretical implications. di Pellegrino et al. [di Pellegrino, G., Basso, G., & Frassinetti, F. (1997). Spatial extinction on double asynchronous stimulation. Neuropsychologia, 35, 1215-1223] report that extinction is maximal when the two stimuli are presented simultaneously, with less extinction when either item has a slight temporal lead. This finding supports traditional clinical diagnosis (which only presents simultaneous events), and is in accord with theories of extinction that entail individuation of objects (e.g. "token" accounts). In contrast, Cate and Behrmann [Cate, A., & Behrmann, M. (2002). Spatial and temporal influences of extinction. Neuropsychologia, 40, 2206-2225] report that extinction is maximal when the ipsilesional item is presented slightly prior to the contralesional item. This finding appears to support disengage models of attention. Our aim was to reveal whether the difference between these studies reflects different patients, or different methods. Specifically, we note that the stimuli used by Cate and Behrmann were biased both temporally (more ipsilesional first trials) and spatially (more items presented in ipsilesional field). We examined the performance of nine individuals with extinction, and found that maximal extinction was not influenced by temporal biases, but extinction was modulated by the spatial location of stimuli. This finding reconciles previous studies and offers new insight into this syndrome.
On the distribution of lunar maria and the synchronous rotation of the Moon

Presentation of a hypothesis to explain the predominance of maria on the near side of the lunar surface
A Retrospective Comparison of Tacrolimus versus Cyclosporine with Methotrexate for Immunosuppression after Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation with Mobilized Blood Cells

This retrospective study was performed to compare results with tacrolimus versus cyclosporine in combination with methotrexate for immunosuppression after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor–mobilized blood cells. The cohort included 456 consecutive patients who received first allogeneic T cell-replete HCT with mobilized blood cells from related or unrelated donors after high-intensity conditioning for treatment of hematologic malignancies. Study endpoints included grades II-IV acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD), grades III-IV aGVHD, chronic GVHD (cGVHD), end of treatment for cGVHD, overall mortality, disease-free survival (DFS), recurrent malignancy, and nonrelapse mortality (NRM). Adjusted multivariate Cox regression analysis showed no statistically significant differences between tacrolimus and cyclosporine for any of the endpoints tested. Although the size of the cohort is not sufficient to exclude clinically meaningful differences in outcomes, these results support the continued use of cyclosporine at centers that have not adopted tacrolimus as the standard of care after HCT with mobilized blood cells after high-intensity conditioning regimens. A larger registry study should be performed to provide more definitive information comparing outcomes with the 2 calcineurin inhibitors.
Pulsed electrodepositin of Fe-Ni-Co alloys

Abstract The dependence of the electrodeposition of Fe-Ni-Co alloys on hydrodynamics, current density and solution temperature using pulse and pulse reverse currents have been investigated. Deposit compositions with pulse current (PC) were similar to those obtained with direct current ( dc ). However, pulse reverse currents (PR) between 20 and 200 Hz at higher peak cathodic and anodic current densities and higher temperatures resulted in deposits with lower Fe and higher Ni content than with either dc or PC. The appearance of deposits obtained by PC and PR were superior to those obtained by dc . Deposits were smoother and brighter at 55°C than at room temperature, and were smoother and more adherent at higher rotation rates.
Tempo and mode of hummingbird evolution

Abstract Lack of adequate historical data has hindered understanding of the evolutionary tempo and mode of many ecologically well-characterized avian radiations. DNA hybridization distances among 28 hummingbirds (Trochilidae) were used to establish a timescale for this family's radiation into more than 330 species. Under a variety of analytical assumptions, genetic distances calibrated with a fossil divergence date corrected for incompleteness in the geologic record indicated that all extant hummingbird lineages began to diverge in the Early Miocene, approximately 40 Myr (million years) after the Paleocene date estimated for the divergence of hummingbirds and swifts. The long period prior to the radiation of living forms provides ample time for divergent evolution to produce the large morphological gap that has tended to obscure the sister-relationship of hummingbirds and swifts. The Miocene radiation of extant hummingbird lineages itself began with the divergence of the hermit and nonhermit subfamilies approximately 17 Ma (million years ago), followed by the rapid divergence of two Andean and one principally Central and North American clade at approximately 12 Ma. Younger subsidiary lineages, including ones found mainly in the Andes or in North America, date to the later Miocene–earlier Pliocene, approximately 6 Ma. The DNA hybridization-based chronology thus indicates a protracted, rather than strictly rapid, radiation. Evidence from a broader spectrum of organisms supports the general pattern that higher taxonomic structure within many extant continental families evolved in the Miocene, suggesting that a common environmental pacemaker initiated radiation in unrelated groups. Compared to those in the Pleistocene, radiations tracing to the Miocene may have depended less on rapid climate cycling than on creation of new habitats by major geologic and climatic upheavals. For extant hummingbirds, a principal cause for their Miocene diversification probably was the ability of the ecologically generalized subfamily of nonhermits to radiate in montane areas created by the Andean and other orogenies. Similar interactions between new habitats and their exploitation by ecological generalists may explain, at least in part, the contemporaneous radiation of Passeriformes, the most diverse avian order.
Password policy simulation and analysis

Passwords are an ubiquitous and critical component of many security systems. As the information and access guarded by passwords become more necessary, we become ever more dependent upon the security passwords provide. The creation and management of passwords is crucial, and for this we must develop and deploy password policies. This paper focuses on defining and modeling password policies for the entire password policy lifecycle. The paper first discusses a language for specifying password policies. Then, a simulation model is presented with a comprehensive set of variables and the algorithm for simulating a password policy and its impact. Finally, the paper presents several simulation results using the password policy simulation tool.
Comparison of linear and circular polarization for magnetic resonance imaging

Abstract A comparison of experimental imaging results obtained with linearly polarized and circularly polarized radiofrequency excitation and reception is presented. Simulation images in good agreement with the experimental scans are described. The simulations are calculated with a model in which a homogeneous, isotropic cylinder of lossy dielectric material and infinite axial extent is immersed in a uniform rf magnetic field perpendicular to the axis. It is found that with the usual linear polarization, reconstructions of uniform objects have regions of decreased intensity. These artifacts are shown to arise from dielectric standing wave effects and eddy currents. The effects become more severe as the frequency or object size is increased, and depend upon the complex conductivity of the object. Results indicate that a significant reduction in the artifact intensity is achieved when circular polarization is employed for both transmission and reception. The expected benefits of circular polarization over linear polarization in reduction of excitation power (up to 50% reduction) and signal-to-noise advantage (√2) have been realized in practice with cylindrical objects and human subjects.
Acidification of Soil in a Dry Land Winter Wheat-sorghum/corn-fallow Rotation in the Semiarid U.S. Great Plains

Soil pH is decreasing in many soils in the semiarid Great Plains of the United States under dry land no-till (NT) cropping systems. This study was conducted to determine the rate of acidification and the causes of the acidification of a soil cropped to a winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)-grain sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]/corn (Zea mays L.)-fallow rotation (W-S/C-F) under NT. The study was conducted from 1989 to 2003 on soil with a long-term history of either continuous NT management [NT(LT)] (1962–2003) or conventional tillage (CT) (1962–1988) then converted to NT [NT(C)] (1989–2003). Nitrogen was applied as ammonium nitrate (AN) at a rate of 23 kg N ha−1 in 1989 and as urea ammonium nitrate (UAN) at an average annual rate of 50 kg N ha−1 from 1990 to 2003 for both NT treatments. Soil samples were collected at depth increments of 0–5, 5–10, 10–15, and 15–30 cm in the spring of 1989 and 2003. Acidification rates for the NT(LT) and NT(C) treatments were 1.13 and 1.48 kmol H+ ha−1 yr−1 in the 0–30 cm depth, respectively. The amount of CaCO3 needed to neutralize the acidification is 57 and 74 kg ha−1 yr−1 for the NT(LT) and NT(C) treatments, respectively. A proton budget estimated by the Helyar and Porter [1989, Soil Acidity and Plant Growth, Academic Press] method indicated that NO3− leaching from the 30 cm depth was a primary cause of long-term acidification in this soil. Nitrate leaching accounted for 59 and 66% of the H+ from the acid causing factors for NT(LT) and NT(C) treatments, respectively. The addition of crop residues to the soil neutralized 62 and 47% of the acidity produced from the leaching of NO3−, and 37 and 31% of the acid resulting from NO3− leaching and the other acid-causing constituents for the NT(LT) and NT(C) treatments, respectively. These results document that surface soils in dry land W-S/C-F rotations under NT are acidifying under current management practices. Improved management to increase nitrogen uptake efficiency from applied fertilizer would help reduce the rate of acidification. The addition of lime materials to prevent negative impacts on grain yields may be necessary in the future under current management practices.
Stability properties of nonlinear systems with fluctuating parameters: I. Nonlinear oscillators

Abstract We have determined the stability properties of nonlinear oscillators with fluctuating potential parameters and a fluctuating additive driving force. It is shown that nonlinearities in general stabilize moments known to diverge in the corresponding linear system.
An analytic approach for quantifying the value of e-business initiatives

We describe an IBM strategic consulting offering involving a methodology and an analytic tool. The methodology, the Risk and Opportunity Assessment, provides a systematic approach for diagnosing problems in the value chain of the enterprise, and for selecting and prioritizing e-business initiatives. Applying this methodology involves the use of an analytic tool, the Value Chain Modeling Tool, that uses management science and operations research techniques, as well as techniques from the domains of finance and supply chain management, to model the end-to-end value chain of the enterprise. This approach has been successfully used to improve the financial and operating performance of several enterprises.
Radiation processes for textiles

The possibilities of using radiation as a catalyst for chemical reactions on textiles has intrigued researchers in this field for more than fifteen years, but practical applications have been elusive. The use of isotopes for radiation sources in the early part of this period was the primary limitation, but much interesting and useful work was carried out. This information has been expertly reviewed by Gilbert and Stannett (i) and Rutherford (2). The introduction of high intensity electron accelerators in the mid-sixties led to a further increase in interest and one commercial process for permanent press (Deering Milliken's). Another barrier appeared, however, in the lack of chemicals available that were suitable for high rates of polymerization. The research on textile radiation processes in the late sixties and early seventies relied almost completely on the versatile N-methylol acrylamide, which has a high polymerization rate constant, gives gel on polymerization, and has cellulose reactivity through the methylol group.
The FAD-shielding Residue Phe1395 Regulates Neuronal Nitric-oxide Synthase Catalysis by Controlling NADP+ Affinity and a Conformational Equilibrium within the Flavoprotein Domain

Phe1395 stacks parallel to the FAD isoalloxazine ring in neuronal nitric-oxide synthase (nNOS) and is representative of conserved aromatic amino acids found in structurally related flavoproteins. This laboratory previously showed that Phe1395 was required to obtain the electron transfer properties and calmodulin (CaM) response normally observed in wild-type nNOS. Here we characterized the F1395S mutant of the nNOS flavoprotein domain (nNOSr) regarding its physical properties, NADP+ binding characteristics, flavin reduction kinetics, steady-state and pre-steady-state cytochrome c reduction kinetics, and ability to shield its FMN cofactor in response to CaM or NADP(H) binding. F1395S nNOSr bound NADP+ with 65% more of the nicotinamide ring in a productive conformation with FAD for hydride transfer and had an 8-fold slower rate of NADP+ dissociation. CaM stimulated the rates of NADPH-dependent flavin reduction in wild-type nNOSr but not in the F1395S mutant, which had flavin reduction kinetics similar to those of CaM-free wild-type nNOSr. CaM-free F1395S nNOSr lacked repression of cytochrome c reductase activity that is typically observed in nNOSr. The combined results from pre-steady-state and EPR experiments revealed that this was associated with a lesser degree of FMN shielding in the NADP+-bound state as compared with wild type. We conclude that Phe1395 regulates nNOSr catalysis in two ways. It facilitates NADP+ release to prevent this step from being rate-limiting, and it enables NADP(H) to properly regulate a conformational equilibrium involving the FMN subdomain that controls reactivity of the FMN cofactor in electron transfer.
A Shallow Seismic Refraction Study of the Versailles Cryptoexplosion Structure, Central Kentucky

— The Versailles cryptoexplosion structure, located in central Kentucky, contains a partially brecciated central uplift and a boundary marked by arcuate faulting. Seismic refraction data were used to divide the structure into distinct units on the basis of velocity. A zone of brecciated material shows a decrease in velocity compared with surrounding rocks. Locally thickened strata are present on the flanks of the central uplift. An increase of the bedrock velocity in the area surrounding the structure suggests localized dolomization of fractured bedrock, and a plug of fractured strata near the base of the brecciation appears to be uplifted. Based on the geometry of deformation seen in known impact structures, and the integration of this study with previous geological and geophysical work in the area, it is suggested that our results support the interpretation of the Versailles structure as an eroded astrobleme (Black, 1964b; Seeger, 1972).
Protective effect of quercetin on acrolein-induced COX-2 expression in lung epithelial cells

The purpose of this study was to determine whether quercetin can protect against acrolein-induced cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression using rat lung epithelial (LE) cells. The LE cells were exposed to 20 or 60 μM quercetin and 20 μM acrolein for 24 hr. Cell viability was reduced by acrolein, while quercetin 20 μM reduced the adverse effect produced by acrolein. Quercetin alone at 20 μM did not markedly affect cell viability. Acrolein-induced toxicity in LE cells was evidenced by the presence of inflammatory mediators. It was previously reported that exposure of LE cells to 20 μM acrolein produced an upregulation in COX-2 expression that was reduced by 20 μM quercetin. To determine the underlying mechanism of activation of inflammation, the protein expression of NFκB (phosphorylated p65), ERK and MEK, and MAP kinases was determined. These inflammatory mediators were upregulated by acrolein while quercetin reduced the expression of these mediators. Data suggest that quercetin, a flavonoid, may be beneficial...
Geospatial Relationships between Awareness and Utilization of Community Exercise Resources and Physical Activity Levels in Older Adults

Introduction. It is unclear if community-based fitness resources (CBFR) translate to heightened activity levels within neighboring areas. The purpose of this study was to determine whether awareness and utilization of fitness resources and physical activity differed depending on residential distance from CBFR. Methods. Four hundred and seventeen older adults ( years) were randomly recruited from three spatial tiers (≤1.6, >1.6 to ≤3.2, and >3.2 to 8.0 km) surrounding seven senior centers, which housed CBFR. Participants completed questionnaires on health history, CBFR, and physical activity, gathering data on CBFR awareness, utilization, and barriers, overall levels, and predictors to engagement in moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA). Results. Across spatial tiers, there were no differences in positive awareness rates of CBFR or CBFR utilization. Engagement in MVPA differed across spatial tiers , with the >3.2 to 8.0 km radius having the highest mean energy expenditure. Across all sites, age and income level were significant predictors of low and high amounts of MVPA, respectively, and current health status and lack of interest represented barriers to CBFR utilization . Conclusion. Closer proximity to CBFR did not impact awareness or utilization rates and had an inverse relationship with physical activity.
The emergence of the inner-city self-help center

This article chronicles the effort of a group of self-helpers and professionals to collaborate with and to develop self-help groups in an impoverished area of an inner-city neighborhood in Chicago. Several self-help groups were started in the target area of the project. In a control area, no increases in self-help activity were found by the end of the study. Unique issues that were encountered in working on this project are highlighted.
Maximum likelihood inference on cointegration and seasonal cointegration

Abstract Testing procedures for cointegration and seasonal cointegration are developed for nonstationary time series which have unit roots at seasonal frequencies as well as at the zero frequency. Using maximum likelihood inference, we estimate and test the hypothesis for the existence of cointegrating vectors at each frequency in the presence of unit roots at other seasonal frequencies. The basic finding is that several null hypotheses can be tested separately for each case of interest without any prior knowledge about the existence of cointegration relations at other frequencies. The asymptotic distribution theory is derived, and the critical values are generated by Monte Carlo simulations. The problems on the use of seasonally adjusted data are discussed, and an empirical example is illustrated by using Canadian data on unemployment and immigration rates.
How do visual neurons respond in the real world

Natural visual stimuli have been reported to evoke neural responses with brief, intense firing events. This has important implications for how visual information is encoded. A recent experiment measured the responses of visual neurons in the natural environment, circumventing many limitations of laboratory simulations while still retaining tight experimental control. Under these conditions, neurons fired intensely at precise, discrete times, validating that this firing regime is relevant to natural vision.
Prolactin and Thyrotrophin Content of Functional Transplantable Pituitary Tumors

SummaryThe prolactin and thyrotrophin content of various transplantable pituitary tumors was studied. 1. Prolactin was found in stilbestrol induced and stilbestrol dependent rat pituitary tumor and also in an autonomous mammotrophic mouse tumor in concentrations only 10% or less that found in bovine pituitaries. These tumors contained little or no thyrotrophin. 2. Two autonomous adrenotrophic tumors contained no detectable prolactin or thyrotrophin. 3. Two dependent thyrotrophic tumors contained no detectable prolactin while the thyrotrophin concentration was ten times that of bovine pituitaries. A five gram thyrotrophic tumor contains 5,000 times more thyrotrophin than one mouse pituitary. Blood levels of thyrotrophin were 2,000 times normal.
Empathic accuracy and accommodative behavior among newly married couples

An established method for assessing empathic accuracy was used to examine the consequences of accurate understanding during the early years of marriage. Structural equation modeling analyses simultaneously examined within-individual and across-partner associations among variables (actor effects and partner effects). During the first year of marriage, actor effects and partner effects were observed for two presumed consequences of empathic accuracy—accommodative behavior and couple well-being. Actor effects, partner effects, or both were observed for three possible determinants of empathic accuracy—commitment level, partner perspective-taking, and psychological femininity. Levels of empathic accuracy reliably declined following the first year of marriage, as did the strength of the above-noted associations with empathic accuracy.
The national institute of standards and technology center for neutron research (NCNR)

Abstract The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) through its Center for Neutron Research (NCNR) operates the 20 MW research reactor at its Gaithersburg, Maryland site as a national facility, which is also available to non-U.S. users. The reactor, which has been in routine operation since 1969, supports a broad range of research activities. These include diffraction, inelastic scattering, activation analysis, depth-profiling, interferometry, and fundamental physics measurements. The NIST facilities were described in earlier issues of Narrron News [1,2], so that the present report is intended to be an update. More complete descriptions can also be found at http://www.ncnr.nist.gov.
Changes in total light scattering and absorption caused by changes in particle conformation--a test of theory.

Abstract Theoretical methods were recently proposed for relating optical and conformational changes of biological cells and large subcellular structures. Two types of conformational changes were treated: a simple particle swelling or shrinking in which the refractive-index increment varies inversely with particle volume, and changes in internal particle structure. The effects on two optical quantities were considered: suspension transmission as measured with a highly collimated optical system, and transmission as measured with a 4π steradian photometer (integrating sphere). In the first case, the beam is attenuated by total scattering, at all angles, plus absorption, while in the second attenuation is by absorption only. The present study tests these theoretical methods. Yeast cells and spinach chloroplasts were made to shrink by increasing medium osmolarity. Transmissions were measured with special spectrophotometers. Initial particle volume, refractive index, and absorption coefficient as well as changes in particle volume were independently measured and used to calculate theoretical changes in transmission. Some theoretical changes in transmission controlled by total scattering plus absorption were also calculated assuming that medium osmolarity influences internal particle structure as well as particle volume. Both theoretical models lead to qualitative agreement with experiment. However, the best agreement is obtained assuming simultaneous volume and structure changes. With suspensions of spinach chloroplasts, transmissions governed by absorption only were always found to increase as the particles shrink. The observed transmission changes quantitatively agree with theoretical predictions based on the observed volume changes.
Identification and Cancer Therapeutic Properties of Microfloral Anthocyanin Metabolites

Colon cancer is very common, but those who consume anthocyanins, common red pigments in wine, grapes and other fruits, appear to have lower rates of colon cancer. We investigated the fate of grape anthocyanins in the colon by using a pig model of the lower intestine and observed the rapid conversion to three simple phenols. These were studied, along with metabolites reported by others, for their effect on cell proliferation and apoptosis, and we observed promising results; cell proliferation was suppressed and apoptosis enhanced. Thus, these metabolites are promising anti-cancer agents and the effect of anthocyanins on colon cancer appears to be mediated by these bacterial metabolites.
Original Contribution: Neural representations for sensory-motor control, II: Learning a head-centered visuomotor representation of 3-D target position

A neural network model is described for how an invariant head-centered representation of 3-D target position can be autonomously learned by the brain in real time. Once learned, such a target representation may be used to control both eye and limb movements. The target representation is derived from the positions of both eyes in the head, and the locations which the target activates on the retinas of both eyes. A Vector Associative Map (VAM) learns the many-to-one transformation from multiple combinations of eye-and-retinal position to invariant 3-D target position. Eye position is derived from outflow movement signals to the eye muscles. Two successive stages of opponent processing convert these corollary discharges into a head-centered representation that closely approximates the azimuth, elevation, and vergence of the eyes' gaze position with respect to a cyclopean origin located between the eyes. VAM learning combines this cyclopean representation of present gaze position with binocular retinal information about target position into an invariant representation of 3-D target position with respect to the head. VAM learning can use a teaching vector that is externally derived from the positions of the eyes when they foveate the target. A VAM can also autonomously discover and learn the invariant representation, without an explicit teacher, by generating internal error signals from environmental fluctuations in which these invariant properties are implicit. VAM error signals are computed by Difference Vectors (DVs) that are zeroed by the VAM learning process. VAMs may be organized into VAM Cascades for learning and performing both sensory-to-spatial maps and spatial-to-motor maps. These multiple uses clarify why DV-type properties are computed by cells in the parietal, frontal, and motor cortices of many mammals. VAMs are modulated by gating signals that express different aspects of the will-to-act. These signals transform a single invariant representation into movements of different speed (GO signal) and size (GRO signal), and thereby enable VAM controllers to match a planned action sequence to variable environmental conditions.
Influence of Gender and Age on Calcium Oxalate Crystal Growth Inhibition by Urine from Relatives of Stone Forming Patients

Purpose: We define the relationships between urine inhibition of calcium oxalate crystal growth and age, gender, urine chemistries and stone formation among relatives of calcium stone forming patients.Materials and Methods: We collected 24-hour urine samples from 366 first degree relatives of calcium stone formers. Calcium oxalate crystal growth inhibition was studied using a constant amount of dialyzed urine protein in a seeded crystallization system. Standard stone risk measurements were also performed on the urine, including supersaturation for calcium oxalate, calcium phosphate and uric acid.Results: By multivariate analysis crystal growth inhibition is strongly inversely related to the amount of protein excreted per day, and the age of the subject. When corrected for protein excretion and age, urine proteins from nonstone forming male subjects inhibited crystal growth more strongly than those from corresponding female subjects. Among stone formers the sex difference was not present.Conclusions: Inhib...
Neutropenic enterocolitis in a patient with colorectal carcinoma: unusual course after treatment with 5-fluorouracil and leucovorin--a case report.

BACKGROUND Neutropenic enterocolitis is observed in approximately 25% of patients with acute leukemia, but has been reported rarely in patients with solid tumors. If treatment is not initiated promptly, the mortality is high. The incidence of this disease is rising in patients with hematologic malignancies. Increasing numbers of patients with solid tumors are subject to high dose chemotherapy regimens or new drugs known to cause severe neutropenia. Therefore, the frequency of this disease can be expected to increase. METHODS The authors report a patient with colorectal carcinoma who developed neutropenic enterocolitis after treatment with 5-fluorouracil and leucovorin. RESULTS The patient developed the typical clinical picture of abdominal pain, diarrhea, and neutropenia. The course was complicated by a recurrence of symptoms after initially successful antibiotic therapy without the patient receiving further chemotherapy. CONCLUSIONS This case indicates that neutropenic enterocolitis may occur in patients with colorectal carcinoma receiving 5-fluorouracil and leucovorin. Cancer 1997; 80:656-60. © 1997 American Cancer Society.
Holmium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet lithotripsy efficiency varies with stone composition.

Abstract Objectives. To test the hypothesis that holmium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (YAG) lithotripsy efficiency varies with stone composition. Methods. Single pulses of holmium:YAG energy were delivered using 272-, 365-, 550-, and 940-μm optical fibers to human calculi composed of calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM), calcium hydrogen phosphate dihydrate (CHPD), cystine, magnesium ammonium phosphate hexohydrate (MAPH), and uric acid. Energy/pulse settings were 0.2, 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 J. Stone crater width and depth were characterized with reflectance light microscopy. Results. For similar energies overall MAPH yielded the deepest and widest craters. CHPD, cystine, and uric acid yielded craters of intermediate width and depth. COM yielded the smallest craters. Within any given composition, increased pulse energy yielded craters of increased width and depth. Conclusions. Holmium:YAG lithotripsy efficiency varies with stone composition. The rank order of crater size appears to correlate with thermal threshold for each composition. Increased holmium:YAG energy produces larger craters for all compositions.
Determination of the accuracy and operating constants in a digitally biased ring core magnetometer

Abstract By using a very stable voltage reference and a high precision digital-to-analog converter to set bias in digital increments, the inherently high stability and accuracy of a ring core magnetometer can be significantly enhanced. In this case it becomes possible to measure not only variations about the bias level, but to measure the entire value of the field along each magnetometer sensing axis in a nearly absolute sense. To accomplish this, one must accurately determine the value of the digital bias increment for each axis, the zero field offset value for each axis, the scale values, and the transfer coefficients (or nonorthogonality angles) for pairs of axes. This determination can be carried out very simply, using only the Earth's field, a proton magnetometer, and a tripod-mounted fixture which is capable of rotations about two axes that are mutually perpendicular to the Earth's magnetic field vector.
MnSOD deficiency has a differential effect on disease progression in two different ALS mutant mouse models.

Mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress are thought to participate in the pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of reduced mitochondrial antioxidant defense on lifespan and disease progression in two mouse models of familial ALS (G93A and H46R/H48Q mutant lines) that represent pseudo-wildtype and metal-deficient ALS mutants, respectively. The metal-deficient H46R/H48Q mutant differs from the G93A mutant in that it cannot bind copper in the active site and thus lacks SOD activity. We crossed each of these mutant lines with mice deficient in the mitochondrial matrix antioxidant enzyme MnSOD (Sod2+/− mice). In both high (G93A1Gur) and low (G93ADL) copy G93A strains, MnSOD deficiency caused a decrease in lifespan that was associated with a reduced disease duration rather than earlier disease onset. In contrast, MnSOD deficiency had no effect on lifespan or disease parameters of H46R/H48Q mutant mice. MnSOD deficiency thus has a differential effect on disease progression in different mutant SOD1 ALS mouse models, suggesting that different ALS-causing mutations in SOD1 result in disease progression by at least proximally different mechanisms/pathways. Muscle Nerve 38: 1173–1183, 2008
Why We All Want It to Work: Towards a Culturally Based Model for Technology and Educational Change.

This paper explores reasons why the use of technology in education may be so attractive to so many people. Two emerging perspectives-memetics, and the social history of technology-are explored, and a typology of technology-as-cultural-tool is presented. Finally, implications of these ideas for educational change are considered.
RelB Cellular Regulation and Transcriptional Activity Are Regulated by p100

RelB mediates the constitutive nuclear pool of NF-κB transcriptional activity in myeloid and lymphoid cells, which is believed to be secondary to its weak interaction with the classical NF-κB inhibitor proteins, the IκBs. In other cell types, RelB is located in the cytosol, thus suggesting that RelB is also regulated by an inhibitory protein(s). In this study, it is demonstrated that RelB is associated in the cytosol with p100 but not with IκBα, IκBβ, IκBe, nor p105. Its cytosolic control is not affected by stimuli that lead to RelA nuclear translocation, and RelB nuclear localization is prevented by p100, but not by p105 or IκBα. Structure function analysis p100-RelB interactions indicates that p100 amino acids 623–900 are required for effective interaction and repression of nuclear translocation and RelB driven NF-κB-dependent transcription. Moreover, this carboxyl-portion of p100 contains a nuclear export signal(s), which is required for effective retrieval of RelB from the nucleus. Finally, overexpression of NF-κB-inducing kinase, a kinase that has recently been shown to induce p100 processing, possibly through IKKα activation, causes nuclear translocation of RelB protein. Thus, these studies indicate that p100 is a bone fide inhibitor of RelB and that this transcription factor may be regulated by NF-κB-inducing kinase and/or IKKα.
Effects of intravenous administration of human bone marrow stromal cells after intracerebral hemorrhage in rats

Object The goal of this study was to investigate whether human bone marrow stromal cells (hBMSCs) administered by intravenous injection have a beneficial effect on outcome after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) in rats. Methods An ICH was induced in 54 adult male Wistar rats by a stereotactically guided injection of autologous blood into the right striatum. Intravenous infusion of the hBMSCs (3, 5, or 8 million cells) was performed 1 day after ICH, and for each dose group there was a control group that received injections of vehicle. Neurological function, which was evaluated using the Neurological Severity Score (NSS) and the corner turn test, was tested before and at 1, 7, and 14 days after ICH. After 14 days of survival, the area of encephalomalacia was calculated and histochemical labeling was performed. For all three groups, there were no statistical differences in either the NSS or corner turn tests after 1 day. After 7 and 14 days, however, the three groups that received the hBMSCs showed significant...
Ecological rôle of ghost crabs, Ocypode quadrata (Fabricius) on an ocean beach: Scavengers or predators?

Abstract Food habits and ecological role of the ghost crab. Ocypode quadrata ( Fabricius) on a North Carolina barrier beach have been investigated in field and laboratory studies. Despite previous reports that they are scavengers, the crabs spent little time in ureas where drifted material accumulated. Dead material accounted for less than 10% of the food in the field. The crabs did. however, give evidence of being facultative scavengers, readily consuming virtually any form of organic matter. Live prey, consisting almost exclusively of mole crabs, Emerita talpoida (Say), and coquina clams, Donax variabilis Say, made up more than 90% of the diet. Handling times indicate that about equal weights of E. talpoida and D. variabilis are consumed. Because of its higher caloric content E. talpoida provides ≈60% of the energy and D. variabilis ≈25%. The effect of O. quadrata on the prey species was assessed by comparing the estimated rates of its feeding (based on resting metabolism) with estimated production of E. talpoida and D. variabilis . Calculations indicate that ghost crabs consume most of the production of both species. Ghost crabs have essentially no terrestrial competitors or predators on the beaches concerned and the stability of this simple food web in such a physically unstable environment may be attributed to the flexible feeding behavior of the predators and their ability to endure long periods of starvation, and to the prey having high biotic potential and dispersal rates. Ghost crabs are the top carnivores in a simple, filter-feeding based food chain.
Crystal structure of the human class II MHC protein HLA-DR1 complexed with an influenza virus peptide

An influenza virus peptide binds to HLA-DR1 in an extended conformation with a pronounced twist. Thirty-five per cent of the peptide surface is accessible to solvent and potentially available for interaction with the antigen receptor on T cells. Pockets in the peptide-binding site accommodate five of the thirteen side chains of the bound peptide, and explain the peptide specificity of HLA-DR1. Twelve hydrogen bonds between conserved HLA-DR1 residues and the main chain of the peptide provide a universal mode of peptide binding, distinct from the strategy used by class I histocompatibility proteins.
Yan'an Communism Reconsidered:

The essential facts are clear. Twice defeated, routed from the revolutionary base areas they had constructed in the course of nearly a decade of guerrilla warfare and land revolution, on the eve of the Sino-Japanese War, the Chinese Communist Party and its besieged army were essentially confined to a poor and peripheral area of the Northwest, having narrowly escaped extermination in the course of the Long March. Less than a decade later, Japanese armies in China had been fought to a standstill. By the time of their 1945 surrender, Mao's party-army held sway over almost 100 million people mainly in North, Northeast, and North Central China. In the course of the anti-Japanese resistance, the Communists forged a broad coalition of forces that administered and coordinated activities in widely dispersed rural base areas in China's interior. The base areas provided the springboard for nationwide victory in the subsequent civil war that ended in Guomindang defeat and establishment of the People's Republic. These facts are clear, yet explanations for the Communist victory and assessments of the character of the movement remain the subject of controversy. This article assesses major interpretations of the wartime resistance since the 1940s and concludes with a critical reassessment of the Yan'an Way as a framework for assessing the revolutionary praxis both of the Shaanxi-Gansu-Ningxia Border Region and of the wider wartime Communist movement. Research for the book The Yenan Way in Revolutionary China (Selden, 1971) was conducted during the 1960s, prior to access by
Assessment of Left Ventricular Relaxation by Untwisting Rate Based on Different Algorithms

Background This study was performed in both animals and human subjects to test whether different approaches to calculate untwisting rate may lead to different results in the assessment of left ventricular (LV) relaxation. Methods In animal experiments, congestive heart failure was successfully induced in 8 adult dogs. Transthoracic echocardiography was performed with simultaneous LV pressure recording at baseline and the stage of heart failure. In the clinical study, 72 patients undergoing right-sided heart catheterization were studied by transthoracic echocardiography. LV twist was calculated as the difference between apical and basal rotations measured using two-dimensional speckle tracking. Untwisting rate was calculated using 3 different algorithms as the peak negative time derivative of twist (UR max ) during early diastole, the slope of the linear regression of untwisting over time (UR slope ), or the average untwisting over the isovolumic relaxation period (UR mean ). Results UR max significantly correlated with tau and –dP/dt in dogs ( r =−0.81 and 0.77, respectively, both P P max among untwisting rates calculated by 3 different algorithms was significantly related to tau ( r =−0.51, P max was significantly lower in patients with tau≥48 ms than in patients with tau P =.004), most of whom had a depressed LV ejection fraction. Conclusion UR max best reflects LV relaxation in comparison with the 2 other algorithms.
A Phanerochaete chrysosporium mutant defective in lignin degradation as well as several other secondary metabolic functions

A pleiotropic mutant of Phanerochaete chrysosporium 104-2 lacking phenol oxidase and unable to form fruit bodies and a revertant strain 424-2 were isolated after UV mutagenesis. Strains 104-2 and 424-2 had no apparent dysfunction in primary metabolism with glucose as a carbon source. Unlike the wild type strain and strain 424-2, strain 104-2 was unable to evolve 14CO2 from 14C ring, side chain and 3-O-14C-methoxy labeled lignin. In addition, strain 104-2 was unable to evolve 14CO2 from a variety of lignin model compounds including 14C-4′-methoxy labeled veratrylglycerol-β-guaiacyl (V) ether, γ-14C-guaiacylglycerol-β-guaiacyl ether (VI), as well as 1-(14C-4′-methoxy, 3′-methoxyphenyl)1,2 propene (III) and 1-(14C-4′-methoxy-3′-methoxyphenyl) 1,2 dihydroxypropane (IV). The addition of peroxidase/H2O2 to cultures of strain 104-2 did not alter its capacity to degrade the labeled lignins. A variety of unlabeled lignin model compounds previously shown to be degraded by the wild type organism including β-aryl ether dimers and diaryl propane dimers were also not degraded by the mutant 104-2. The revertant strain 424-2 regained the capacity to degrade these compounds. The substrates described are degraded by oxygen requiring system(s) expressed during the secondary phase of growth, suggesting this pleiotropic mutant is possibly defective in the onset of postprimary metabolism. The inability of the mutant to produce the secondary metabolite veratryl alcohol and to elaborate enzymes in the veratryl alcohol biosynthetic pathway supports this hypothesis.
Gröbner bases with respect to several orderings and multivariable dimension polynomials

Let D=K[X] be a ring of Ore polynomials over a field K and let a partition of the set of indeterminates into p disjoint subsets be fixed. Considering D as a filtered ring with the natural p-dimensional filtration, we introduce a special type of reduction in a free D-module and develop the corresponding Grobner basis technique (in particular, we obtain a generalization of the Buchberger Algorithm). Using such a modification of the Grobner basis method, we prove the existence of a Hilbert-type dimension polynomial in p variables associated with a finitely generated filtered D-module, give a method of computation and describe invariants of such a polynomial. The results obtained are applied in differential algebra where the classical theorems on differential dimension polynomials are generalized to the case of differential structures with several basic sets of derivation operators.
Implications of graviton-graviton interaction to dark matter

Abstract Our present understanding of the universe requires the existence of dark matter and dark energy. We describe here a natural mechanism that could make exotic dark matter and possibly dark energy unnecessary. Graviton–graviton interactions increase the gravitational binding of matter. This increase, for large massive systems such as galaxies, may be large enough to make exotic dark matter superfluous. Within a weak field approximation we compute the effect on the rotation curves of galaxies and find the correct magnitude and distribution without need for arbitrary parameters or additional exotic particles. The Tully–Fisher relation also emerges naturally from this framework. The computations are further applied to galaxy clusters.