cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Aggrecan is required for growth plate cytoarchitecture and differentiation

The proteoglycan aggrecan is a prominent component of the extracellular matrix in growth plate cartilage. A naturally occurring, recessive, perinatally lethal mutation in the aggrecan core protein gene, cmd(bc) (Acan(cmd-Bc)), that deletes the entire protein-coding sequence provided a model in which to characterize the phenotypic and morphologic effects of aggrecan deletion on skeletal development. We also generated a novel transgenic mouse, Tg(COL2A1-ACAN), that has the chick ACAN coding sequence driven by the mouse COL2A1 promoter to enable the production of cmd(bc)/cmd(bc); Tg(COL2A1-ACAN) rescue embryos. These were used to assess the impact of aggrecan on growth plate organization, chondrocyte survival and proliferation, and the expression of mRNAs encoding chondrocyte differentiation markers and growth factors. Homozygous mutant (cmd(bc)/cmd(bc)) embryos exhibited severe defects in all skeletal elements with deformed and shortened (50%) limb elements. Expression of aggrecan in rescue embryos reversed the skeletal defects to varying degrees with a 20% increase in limb element length and near-full reversal (80%) of size and diameter of the ribcage and vertebrae. Aggrecan-null growth plates were devoid of matrix and lacked chondrocyte organization and differentiation, while those of the rescue embryos exhibited matrix production concomitant with partial zonation of chondrocytes having proliferative and hypertrophic morphologies. Deformation of the trachea, likely the cause of the mutation's lethality, was reduced in the rescue embryos. Aggrecan-null embryos also had abnormal patterns of COL10A1, SOX9, IHH, PTCH1, and FGFR3 mRNA expression in the growth plate. Expression of chick aggrecan in the rescue embryos notably increased COLX expression, accompanied by the reappearance of a hypertrophic zone and IHH expression. Significantly, in transgenic rescue embryos, the cell death and decreased proliferation phenotypes exhibited by the mutants were reversed; both were restored to wild-type levels. These findings suggest that aggrecan has a major role in regulating the expression of key growth factors and signaling molecules during development of cartilaginous tissue and is essential for proper chondrocyte organization, morphology, and survival during embryonic limb development.
Initial application of digital tomosynthesis with on-board imaging in radiation oncology

We present preliminary investigations that examine the feasibility of incorporating digital tomosynthesis into radiation oncology practice with the use of kilovoltage on-board imagers (OBI). Modern radiation oncology linear accelerators now include hardware options for the addition of OBI for on-line patient setup verification. These systems include an x-ray tube and detector mounted directly on the accelerator gantry that rotate with the same isocenter. Applications include cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), fluoroscopy, and radiographs to examine daily patient positioning to determine if the patient is in the same location as the treatment plan. While CBCT provides the greatest anatomical detail, this approach is limited by long acquisition and reconstruction times and higher patient dose. We propose to examine the use of tomosynthesis reconstructed volumetric data from limited angle projection images for short imaging time and reduced patient dose. Initial data uses 61 projection images acquired over an isocentric arc of twenty degrees with the detector approximately fifty-four centimeters from isocenter. A modified filtered back projection technique, which included a mathematical correction for isocentric motion, was used to reconstruct volume images. These images will be visually and mathematically compared to volumetric computed tomography images to determine efficacy of this system for daily patient positioning verification. Initial images using the tomosynthesis reconstruction technique show much promise and bode well for effective daily patient positioning verification with reduced patient dose and imaging time. Additionally, the fast image acquisition may allow for a single breath hold imaging sequence, which will have no breath motion.
Rab7 Regulates Transport from Early to Late Endocytic Compartments in Xenopus Oocytes

Rab7 has been shown to localize to late endosomes and to mediate transport from early to late endosome/lysosome in mammalian cells and in yeast. We developed a novel assay to quantify transport from early to late endosomes using the Xenopusoocyte. Oocytes were pulsed with avidin after which the oocytes were incubated to allow avidin transport to a late compartment. The oocytes were then allowed to internalize biotin-horseradish peroxidase (HRP). The oocytes were then injected with test proteins and incubated further to allow transport of biotin-HRP from early endosomes to late endosomal/lysosomal compartments. Transport was quantified by assessing the formation of HRP-biotin-avidin complexes. Injection of Rab7:wild-type (WT) and Rab7:Q67L, a GTPase defective mutant, stimulated transport. Rab5:WT had no effect. Rab7:WT-stimulated transport was inhibited by nocodazole, suggesting a role for intact microtubules. Wortmannin, a phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibitor, blocked Rab7:WT-stimulated transport, but Rab7:Q67L-stimulated transport was unaffected by the drug. Rab7:Q67L is constitutively activated and may not require phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase activity for activation. Rab7-stimulated transport requiresN-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor (NSF) activity as transport was blocked by N-ethylmaleimide and ATPase defective NSF mutants. Our results indicate that sequentially acting endocytic Rab GTPases utilize similar factors although their modes of action may be different.
Risk communication--the perceptions and realities.

This paper defines risk communication and puts it into the perspective of risk analysis as a whole. Case studies originating for the food industry are described in the areas of food colours, pesticides and genetically modified foods to exemplify both the difficulties of risk communication and the lessons that can be learned. This paper concludes by suggesting ways in which successful risk communication should be managed.
LOGLINEAR SMOOTHING: AN ALTERNATIVE NUMERICAL APPROACH USING SAS

The purpose of this report is to demonstrate loglinear smoothing using SAS PROC GENMOD. The results from four published examples, which include the smoothing of a) univariate distributions, b) bivariate distributions, c) distributions with teeth, and d) bivariate distributions with structural zeros, are reproduced to show the flexibility of the SAS procedure. Comparisons of graphical displays and likelihood ratio statistics show that the SAS procedure yields results identical to the published results. SAS PROC GENMOD provides an alternative approach to smoothing that is readily available for researchers and graduate students in educational measurement, as well as researchers from other scientific fields.
A prospective study of predictors of successful weight maintenance by women enrolled in community-based weight-loss programs.

OBJECTIVE: Research is limited on the psychological predictors of successful long-term weight maintenance after weight loss. Therefore, the present study examined the individual contributions of body image, depression, and self-esteem to successful weight maintenance after a significant weight loss. METHOD: Measures of depression, self-esteem, and body image were administered at baseline, three-, and twelve-months to 73 women enrolled in community-based weight loss programs. RESULTS: Significant predictors of weight maintenance included baseline self-classified weight, early (3 months) weight maintenance, later (12 months) change in perceptual body image, and the interaction between early and late change in body image avoidance. Classifying oneself as more overweight at baseline predicted less weight maintenance, while later discrepancies between current and realistic body size were positively associated with weight maintenance. Those who showed steady improvements in body image avoidance behavior were more likely to maintain weight loss. Baseline BMI, self-esteem, and depression did not predict 12-month weight maintenance. DISCUSSION: Further understanding how body image and related factors contribute to weight maintenance may inform development of more effective interventions to promote long-term weight maintenance.
Electron migration in oligonucleotides upon gamma-irradiation in solution.

Electron migration in irradiated solutions of DNA was investigated using 5-bromouracil synthetically incorporated into oligonucleotides of defined base composition as a molecular indicator of electron interactions. Solvated electrons interact quantitatively with 5-bromouracil, leading to a highly reactive 5-yl radical which can abstract an adjacent hydrogen atom to yield uracil. Yields of uracil, or loss of 5-bromouracil, from irradiated oligonucleotide samples were measured using gas chromatography-mass spectrometric analysis of their trimethylsilylated acid hydrolysates. To examine the effects of base composition and DNA conformation on electron migration, a set of oligonucleotides containing 5-bromouracil at selected positions with three base (guanine, cytosine, thymine or adenine) spacers (e.g. [BrU(GGG)3]3) were irradiated in their single- or double-stranded form following annealing with appropriate complementary sequences. Differences in uracil yields suggested that electron migration occurred to di...
Haplotypes of Tumor Necrosis Factor Gene and Tracheal Aspirate Fluid Levels of Tumor Necrosis Factor-α in Preterm Infants

Individual variability in the production of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) has been attributed to genetic factors. We examined whether alleles of TNF gene (lymphotoxin-α+250, TNF-α-308, and TNF-α-238) affect tracheal aspirate fluid (TAF) levels of TNF-α among preterm infants at risk of bronchopulmonary dysplasia. TAF samples were collected within 48 h of birth and 7, 14, 21, and 28 d later. Haplotypes [designated using the nucleotide bases in the chromosome order (lymphotoxin-α+250, TNF-α-308, TNF-α-238)] of TNF were correlated with levels of TNF-α. Diplotypes of TNF (genotypes of haplotypes) classified as high, intermediate, or low based on their relation to TAF TNF-α levels were also correlated with TNF-α levels. The most frequent (and reference haplotype) was AGG. The GGG haplotype was associated with the lowest TAF TNF-α levels on day 7 among African American infants (p < 0.008). Sequential changes in levels of TNF-α correlated with infants' diplotype status [high (HH), intermediate (HL), low (LL)]. Fetal chorioamnionitis but not bronchopulmonary dysplasia was associated with infants' diplotypes (p < 0.005). Haplotypes of the TNF gene influence TAF levels of TNF-α. Diplotypes of TNF are associated with fetal chorioamnionitis.
ADMINISTRATION OF ANTIOXIDANTS TO THE MOTHER AFTER ONSET OF FETAL BRADYCARDIA AMELIORATES FETAL BRAIN INJURY IN RABBITS. † 1075

ADMINISTRATION OF ANTIOXIDANTS TO THE MOTHER AFTER ONSET OF FETAL BRADYCARDIA AMELIORATES FETAL BRAIN INJURY IN RABBITS. † 1075
Fertility and child spacing among the urban poor in a third world city: the case of Calcutta, India.

Studies of fertility behavior in the Third World have relied heavily on two variables, income and education, to explain variations in fertility rates. If the socio-economic variables traditionally employed to account for variations in fertility rates are invariant, what other factors could influence fertility rates and child spacing? On the basis of data from 180 slum households in Calcutta, India, the paper indicates that in a situation where material and social conditions are comparable, cultural and demographic variables play a major role in influencing reproductive behavior. In this case study, caste and family type are shown to have a significant effect on the numbers of surviving children. As regards child spacing, the woman's age is of paramount importance.
α,ω-Glycols from copolymers of isobutylene and 2,5-dimethyl-2,4-hexadiene

Isobutylene has been copolymerized with 2,5-dimethyl-2,4-hexadiene using a boron trifluoride catalyst in petroleum ether solution. Ozonization of the products followed by reduction with lithium aluminum hydride has furnished polyisobutylene glycols in good yield.
Pentostatin-augmented interstitial adenosine prevents postcardioplegia injury in damaged hearts

This study tests the hypothesis that the adenosine deaminase inhibitor pentostatin (2-deoxycoformycin), when given before ischemia or during infusions of blood cardioplegia, augments interstitial adenosine levels and prevents postcardioplegia dysfunction in hearts with antecedent ischemia. Twenty-one anesthetized dogs were placed on cardiopulmonary bypass, and the hearts were made globally ischemic for 30 minutes. Dogs received blood cardioplegia with no pentostatin (BCP group, n = 6), pretreatment pentostatin (0.2 mg/kg) infused 5 minutes before global ischemia (PS-PTx group, n = 7), or pentostatin included only in the blood cardioplegia without pretreatment (PS-BCP group, n = 8). Microdialysate myocardial adenosine levels (an index of interstitial fluid levels) increased only modestly in the BCP group (from 0.55 +/- 0.13 microM to 2.64 +/- 0.50 microM) and the PS-BCP group (from 0.55 +/- 0.18 microM to 1.08 +/- 0.48 microM) during normothermic ischemia, but interstitial adenosine levels were not augmented further during cardioplegic arrest in either group. In contrast, the adenosine level in the PS-PTx group was significantly (p < 0.05) augmented during global ischemia (from 0.50 +/- 0.13 microM to 63.16 +/- 28.08 microM) and cardioplegia infusion (to 15.26 microM +/- 5.61 microM). Relative to baseline, postischemic left ventricular performance (end-systolic pressure-volume relation) was depressed in both the BCP (from 5.5 +/- 1.2 mm Hg/mL to 3.8 +/- 0.4 mm Hg/mL) and PS-BCP groups (from 7.1 +/- 0.9 mm Hg/mL to 3.8 +/- 0.7 mm Hg/mL). In contrast, PS-PTx restored postischemic performance (from 6.2 +/- 0.5 mm Hg/mL to 7.5 +/- 0.9 mm Hg/mL).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
SPEED: Stand-alone programmable ethernet enabled devices

Abstract In this paper we present the design and synthesis of Standalone Programmable Ethernet Enabled Devices (SPEED) as a low cost and power consumption embedded system, which also include an Electrical Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory controller for configurable address assignments. The main function of SPEED is to eliminate the operating system processing of network protocol stack running by personal computer processor and simplifying network functions. This simplification is not exclusively required to fit in a hardware solution, but more important it improves network performance. It utilizes the concept of network channels, where Ethernet frames are delivered through a custom multicast addressing scheme. After validating SPEED simulation outputs, we synthesize the design in FPGA chip using Verilog HDL. Performance measures like power consumption and area utilization are computed using Verilog HDL synthesis tools. Initial performance measures had shown that the SPEED would be reducing the power consumption. Consequently, network devices could be powered through the network cable and eliminate the process of regular electrical power outlet installations and maintenance. This way, SPEED reduces the installation complexity, especially for large number of devices (e.g. surveillance cameras).
Parallel sorting in a ring network of processors

A parallel implementation of selection sorting algorithms is presented that uses a ring-connected array of processors, in which each processor has the same amount of memory. The scheme allows all processors to have the same amount of memory with a small fragmentation loss. Uniformity in the size of the memories provides advantages from the viewpoint of manufacture, maintenance, inventory, item placement, and many other aspects of system design. These memories can, together, function as an interleaved memory for a general-purpose computer. Hence, it is possible to build a medium-scale system in which parallel-sort is implemented as a primitive, like block-move, without a large increment in hardware complexity and cost. An analysis is presented that shows how to improve performance by overlapping comparisons with memory accesses and how to achieve performance improvement by applying carry-look-ahead techniques to comparison. >
Determination of zinc in fingernails by non-flame atomic absorption spectroscopy

The determination of Zn in fingernails directly using the graphite furnace presented certain difficulties due to the anomalous behavior of the analyte in the furnace. The appearance of two peaks which were due to Zn and not to any background interference was noted. The Zn value obtained by adding the area of these two peaks compared fairly well with Zn levels determined by wet ashing and subsequent determination either in the furnace or flame. Wet ashed samples gave only a single peak. It was possible to produce a model of the phenomenon with various Zn salts in a non aqueous matrix. Under these conditions ZnSO4 and ZnO gave a discretely different peak from ZnC12 or metallic Zn. Several tissues such as serum, whole blood, cuticle, and hair were examined for multiple peak formation. Direct determination of Zn in fingernails with the graphite furnace is possible for certain applications such as the determination of Zn levels of white spots in fingernails. For this purpose it is possible to use a sample size as small as 20 mug using the 2138 Zn line. This allows one to run several determinations on a single white spot. However, where sample size is not a limitation, wet ash digestion prior to determination in the furnace is probably the preferred procedure.
Feature based adaptive energy management of sensors on autonomous underwater vehicles

Abstract Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) are an indispensable tool for studying the world׳s oceans. They can be equipped with sophisticated sensors and are capable of collecting scientific data under difficult and harsh conditions. Most AUVs rely on batteries to operate, making energy a critical resource. This paper evaluates the benefits of adaptive sampling strategies that allow AUVs to change sensing behaviors by modeling and tracking underwater features. For many AUVs, particularly gliders, these strategies can effectively extend mission duration. Often, necessary or likely preconditions of environmental features can be detected with simple, low energy cost sensors in combination with modeling software. Once precursors have been identified, more sophisticated and energy-hungry sensors can be utilized, collecting scientific data of higher quality. The use of both hardware and software trigger chains can reduce the energy consumption of sensors without sacrificing the collection of relevant data. We used thermocline detection software together with a lower powered sensor to trigger more expensive fluorescence and backscatter sensors on the Slocum Glider. The use of several different thermocline detection algorithms enabled us to compare their precision and power/energy savings. We show energy savings of up to 82% in simulations, and 50% and 63% through two at-sea experiments.
Overuse of transthoracic echocardiography in the diagnosis of native valve endocarditis.

Background Infective endocarditis (IE) is a diagnostic challenge due to its variable presentation and nonspecific clinical findings. The use of transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) has greatly improved the ability to diagnose IE early, and therefore reduce high mortality and morbidity rates. However, reliance on TTE to exclude IE may lead to overuse of this technology in patients with a low pretest probability of IE. Methods Prospective observational study of all patients referred for TTE to diagnose IE. Clinical factors were used to determine likelihood of IE based on the Von Reyn criteria, and the resulting diagnostic probabilities were correlated with abnormal TTE findings as well as duration of antibiotic therapy. Results One hundred eleven TTEs performed on 98 patients were included in the analysis. Over 70% of TTEs were obtained in patients in whom the diagnosis of IE was rejected by Von Reyn criteria. Therapeutic management (prolonged antibiotic administration) was associated significantly with Von Reyn categorization, and not significantly affected by TTE results. Conclusions Most TTEs are obtained in patients with a low pretest probability of IE and do not contribute to therapeutic decision making. We propose a diagnostic algorithm to direct the use of TTE to patients with intermediate or high pretest probability of IE.
Synthesis of 28-S RNA in the nucleolus

Abstract RNA of isolated nucleoli of rat liver was subjected to sucrose density-gradient centrifugation. The major components were 45-S, 35-S and 28-S RNA, although a smaller peak of 6-S RNA and several other minor components were also present. Extranucleolar nuclear RNA contained mainly 28-S, 18-S and 6-S RNA. With radioactive orotic acid as a precursor and with the aid of actinomycin D as a blocking agent of new RNA synthesis, evidence was obtained that the 45-S RNA is biosynthesized in the nucleolus and converted there into 35-S RNA and 28-S RNA. It was found that the nucleolar RNA contains little 18-S RNA. The base composition of whole nucleolar RNA supports the evidence that the nucleolus synthesizes precursors of the 50–60-S subunits of the ribosomes. Evidence for the rapid turnover of the 45-S RNA in nucleoli was provided by studies on the kinetics of the decay of the 45-S peak in actinomycin D-treated nucleoli which showed that the half-life of the 45 S was approx. 8 min.
A novel transcription mechanism activated by ethanol: induction of Slc7a11 gene expression via inhibition of the DNA-binding activity of transcriptional repressor octamer-binding transcription factor 1 (OCT-1).

Solute carrier family 7, member 11 (Slc7a11) is a plasma membrane cystine/glutamate exchanger that provides intracellular cystine to produce glutathione, a major cellular antioxidant. Oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum stresses up-regulate Slc7a11 expression by activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 and transcription factor 4. This study examined the effect of ethanol on Slc7a11 expression and the underlying mechanism involved. Treatment of mouse hepatic stellate cells with ethanol significantly increased Slc7a11 mRNA and protein levels. Deletion of a 20-bp DNA sequence between −2044 to −2024 upstream of the transcription start site significantly increased basal activity and completely abolished the ethanol-induced activity of the Slc7a11 promoter. This deletion did not affect Slc7a11 promoter activity induced by oxidative or endoplasmic reticulum stress. DNA sequence analysis revealed a binding motif for octamer-binding transcription factor 1 (OCT-1) in the deleted fragment. Mutation of this OCT-1 binding motif resulted in a similar effect as the deletion experiment, i.e. it increased the basal promoter activity and abolished the response to ethanol. Ethanol exposure significantly inhibited OCT-1 binding to the Slc7a11 promoter region, although it did not alter OCT-1 mRNA and protein levels. OCT-1 reportedly functions as either a transcriptional enhancer or repressor, depending on the target genes. Results from this study suggest that OCT-1 functions as a repressor on the Slc7a11 promoter and that ethanol inhibits OCT-1 binding to the Slc7a11 promoter, thereby increasing Slc7a11 expression. Taken together, inhibition of the DNA binding activity of transcriptional repressor OCT-1 is a mechanism by which ethanol up-regulates Slc711 expression. Background: The regulatory role of ethanol on gene expression has not been fully defined. Results: Ethanol reduces OCT-1 binding to the Slc7a11 promoter. Mutation of the OCT-1 binding motif abolishes ethanol-induced Slc7a11 promoter activity. Conclusion: Ethanol increases Slc7a11 expression by reducing OCT-1 binding to its promoter. Significance: Ethanol up-regulates gene expression by inhibiting the DNA binding activity of transcriptional repressor(s).
Theories Of Nucleation And Growth Of Thin Films

There are three basic thin film growth modes: Volmer-Weber (island), Frank and van der Merwe (layer), and Stranski-Krastanov (layer followed by island). Examples of these growth modes and variations thereof are presented and the theories governing the initial and later stages of growth in each case are reviewed.
Measurement of the rate coefficient of the reaction CH+O2 products in the temperature range 2200 to 2600 K

The rate coefficient of the reaction CH+O2 products was determined by measuring CH-radical concentration profiles in shock-heated 100–150 ppm ethane/1000 ppm O2 mixtures in Ar using cw, narrow-linewidth laser absorption at 431.131 nm. Comparing the measured CH concentration profiles to ones calculated using a detailed kinetics model, yielded the following average value for the rate coefficient independent of temperature over the range 2200–2600 K: The experimental conditions were chosen such that the calculated profiles were sensitive mainly to the reactions CH+O2 products and CH3+M CH+H2+M. For the methyl decomposition reaction channel, the following rate-coefficient expression provided the best fit of the measured CH profiles: Additionally, the rate coefficient of the reaction CH2+HCH+ H2 was determined indirectly in the same system: © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
MatchC: A Matching Logic Reachability Verifier Using the K Framework

Abstract This paper presents MatchC , a matching logic reachability verifier using the K framework. K is a rewriting-based framework for defining and analyzing programming languages. Matching logic is a logic designed to state and reason about structural properties over arbitrary program configurations. Matching logic reachability is a unifying framework for operational and axiomatic semantics of programing languages. The MatchC verifier ( http://matching-logic.org/ ) checks reachability properties of programs written in a deterministic fragment of C and is implemented in the K framework. This paper discusses the correctness of the implementation of the matching logic reachability proof system in MatchC . The main contributions of this paper are the implementation of the verifier, with emphasis on using K for program verification, and the evaluation of the tool on a large number of programs, including complex ones, like programs implementing the AVL trees data structure and the Schorr-Waite graph marking algorithm.
Effects of Prior Encounter and Global Discourse Bias on the Processing of Lexically Ambiguous Words: Evidence From Eye Fixations

Abstract Readers′ gaze durations are longer on biased homographs (those having one highly dominant meaning) than on unambiguous control words when the preceding context instantiates the homograph′s subordinate meaning. In two experiments, we attempted to eliminate this subordinate bias effect by increasing the contextual bias in favor of the homograph′s subordinate meaning. In both experiments, subjects′ eye movements were recorded as they read target sentences containing biased homographs in which immediate prior context instantiated the subordinate meaning of the word. In the first experiment, subjects were familiarized with the subordinate sense of the critical homograph via a paired-associate task prior to reading the target sentence. In the second experiment, the target sentence formed the last line of an extended passage whose global discourse biased the subordinate meaning of the critical homograph. In addition, the presence or absence of a prior instance of the critical homograph (instantiated in its subordinate sense) at an earlier location in the passage was manipulated. In neither experiment did the increase in contextual bias result in a reduction of the subordinate bias effect. We argue that these results are inconsistent with a selective account of lexical access.
Which patient education strategies will pay off under prospective pricing

As cost containment pressures mount under prospective pricing, patient education managers need to assure that appropriate educational strategies are implemented. This article reviews the evidence for nine educational strategies which demonstrate cost-saving potential under prospective pricing: pre-operative education, medication self-administration programs, outpatient education, discharge planning education, family education, peer educators, cooperative care units, early discharge programs and home health programs. Whenever possible, the diagnosis related groups (DRGs) to which these strategies apply are indicated. Finally, issues of patient education and quality of care are discussed.
The projection from nucleus raphe magnus and other brainstem nuclei to the spinal cord in the rat: a study using the HRP blue-reaction

Abstract Horseradish peroxidase injections, or solid HRP placements, were made into the dorsolateral quadrant of the spinal cord in ten adult rats, processed according to the blue-reaction (benzidine dihydrochloride) protocol [6]. When the interventions involved the dorsal lateral funiculus (DLF) HRP-labelled somata were observed primarily in the ipsilateral nucleus raphe magnus (NRM), with an occasional cell in nucleus raphe obscurus (NRO) and pallidus (NRP). Other brainstem raphe nuclei consistently lacked labelled neurons. The red nucleus and paralemniscal reticular formation of the rostal pons also contained appreciable numbers of HRP back-filled perikarya. The direct NRM-spinal projection in the rat, involved in the modulation of pain transmission in the spinal cord dorsal horn, originates primarily from the expanded region of the nucleus in the rostralmost medulla.
Get Good Programs for the Price of a Phone Call

Microcomputer hobbyists and user groups across the nation have set up electronic bulletin boards—systems that thousands of people use to exchange information and public domain programs. The Madison (WI) IBM PC user group has set up a large, 24‐hour board that you can call to get free programs, answers to your questions, and information about the user group. In Milwaukee, there's a 24‐hour board that says it's especially for business applications.
An Assessment of the Climatology of Florida Hurricane-Induced Tornadoes (HITs): Technology versus Meteorology

AbstractThe placement of operational Doppler radar at National Weather Service offices in Florida in 1994 and 1995 has produced a distinct climatological discontinuity in archived records of hurricane-induced tornado (HIT) events. During the period of this study (1979–2010), Florida experienced 91 named tropical cyclones (omitting years 1994 and 1995) that produced a total of 300 HITs, as recorded in the NOAA Storm Data climatological publication. The 30 years of records examined for 1979–2010 consisted of 15 years as the pre-Doppler period (1979–93) and 15 years as the Doppler period (1996–2010) and produced an average of 1.92 HITs per tropical cyclone for the pre-Doppler period and 3.85 HITs per tropical cyclone for the Doppler period. Additionally, the HIT statistics were further compiled as the number of HITs per potential HIT day, which yielded values of 0.52 and 1.14, respectively, for the pre-Doppler and Doppler periods. Normalized statistics are based on the total accumulated number of potential H...
Geochemical Connections to Primitive Metabolism

Many microorganisms make extensive use of transition metal sulfide clusters in their metabolic chemistry. Similarly, transition metal sulfide minerals, e.g., pyrrhotite and pyrite, have the potential to provide the essential catalytic chemistry for Earth's earliest life. Experiments reveal that transition metal sulfides have the capacity to both catalyze and, in some cases, participate in organosynthetic reactions that bear similarity to modern biosynthetic pathways. These experiments are buttressed by recognition of natural cases of extensive abiotic organosynthesis in the Earth's crust—reactions that could have provided the first life with a large complement of functionally useful protobiological organic compounds.
Optical variability and pigment biomass in the Sargasso Sea as determined using deep-sea optical mooring data

A 9-month time series of optical data, composed of three separate deployments, from the Biowatt 1987 deep-sea mooring located in the oligotrophic waters of the Sargasso Sea at 32 deg N, 70 deg W, is presented. These data were analyzed using several biooptical models for the purpose of providing a continuous estimate of the spectral diffuse attenuation coefficient and pigment biomass. Results of the first 70-day deployment demonstrate the utility of optical observations as proxy measures of biological parameters, and facilitate a preliminary analysis of the temporal variations and a comparison of the present biooptical observations with concurrent physical observations. Biooptical properties exhibit variation in response to physical forcings, such as diel variations of incident solar irradiance, episodic wind forcing, advective mesoscale eddy layer depth, and succession of phytoplankton. The mooring data are discussed in the context of contemporaneous shipboard observations as well as in terms of future ocean satellite observations.
Multivoicedness in speech and thought representation: The case of self-quotation in Japanese

Abstract This paper explores the functions of self-quotation in Japanese discourse. The phenomena under investigation include direct-style self-quotation, direct-style self-representation of thought, as well as direct-style quotative explanation. Using the closely related concepts of ‘multivoicedness’, ‘text population’ and ‘interdiscursivity’, this paper argues that self-quotation allows for manipulation of multiple voices in Japanese discourse. Also discussed is the function of certain types of self-quotation from the perspective of speech act qualification. It is pointed out that these functions are realized through the juxtaposition of semiotic contexts. Despite the fact that the concept of context has occupied an important place in pragmatics, the manipulation of the contexts for creating meaning has rarely been discussed. Although this study discusses the case of Japanese only, the potentially universal nature of multivoicedness in (self-)quotation and of the juxtaposition of semiotic contexts in language in general is suggested.
Single-exception sorting networks and the computational complexity of optimal sorting network verification

Asorting network is a combinational circuit for sorting constructed from comparison-swap units. The depth of such a circuit is a measure of its running time. It is known that sorting-network verification is computationally intractable. However, it is reasonable to hypothesize that only the fastest (that is, the shallowest) networks are likely to be fabricated. It is shown that the verification of shallow sorting networks is also computationally intractable. Firstly, a method for constructing asymptotically optimalsingle-exception sorting networks is demonstrated. These are networks which sort all zero-one inputs except one. More specifically, their depth isD(n-1)+2⌈log(n-1)⌉+2, whereD(n) is the minimum depth of ann-input sorting network. It follows that the verification problem for sorting networks of depth 2D(n)+6⌈logn⌉+O(1) is Co-NP complete. Given the current state of knowledge aboutD(n) for largen, this indicates that the complexity of verification for shallow sorting networks is as great as for deep networks.
Discovering objects: which identification and refinement strategies do analysts really use?

In the near future industry experts predict the object paradigm will be adopted as the dominant approach to systems analysis, design, and implementation. The promise of the object-oriented approach to systems analysis hinges on correctly partitioning the problem domain into essential classes and objects. Most developers agree that this is no easy task. Limited research has been done to date regarding class and object identification and refinement. This paper presents the findings of an empirical study that (a) assesses the frequency of use of various strategies for identifying and refining classes and objects during systems analysis and (b) tests the hypothesized relationships between strategy usage and several respondent characteristics. Results suggest analysts should learn a base strategic repertoire complemented by selected strategies targeted to the application type and the analystâ€™s previous background.
Increasing deaths from opioid analgesics in the United States

Purpose Since 1990, numerous jurisdictions in the United States (US) have reported increases in drug poisoning mortality. During the same time period, the use of opioid analgesics has increased markedly as part of more aggressive pain management. This study documented a dramatic increase in poisoning mortality rates and compared it to sales of opioid analgesics nationwide. Methods Trend analysis of drug poisoning deaths using underlying cause of death and multiple cause of death mortality data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and opioid analgesic sales data from the US Drug Enforcement Administration. Results Unintentional drug poisoning mortality rates increased on average 5.3% per year from 1979 to 1990 and 18.1% per year from 1990 to 2002. The rapid increase during the 1990s reflects the rising number of deaths attributed to narcotics and unspecified drugs. Between 1999 and 2002, the number of opioid analgesic poisonings on death certificates increased 91.2%, while heroin and cocaine poisonings increased 12.4% and 22.8%, respectively. By 2002, opioid analgesic poisoning was listed in 5528 deaths—more than either heroin or cocaine. The increase in deaths generally matched the increase in sales for each type of opioid. The increase in deaths involving methadone tracked the increase in methadone used as an analgesic rather than methadone used in narcotics treatment programs. Conclusions A national epidemic of drug poisoning deaths began in the 1990s. Prescriptions for opioid analgesics also increased in this time frame and may have inadvertently contributed to the increases in drug poisoning deaths. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quality and Age of Companion Felid Embryos Modulate Enhanced Development by Group Culture

For some species, embryos cultured with conspecific companions may have enhanced in vitro development compared with singletons. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of quality and age of companion embryos on single felid embryos produced by in vitro maturation or in vitro fertilization. Test oocytes (intermediate quality) were inseminated and incubated alone or with 10 embryos derived from oocytes with a high, intermediate, or low glucose uptake. The effect of relative age of companion embryos on test embryo development was also examined by insemination and incubation of test oocytes alone or with 10 conspecific embryos that were older, younger, or the same age. Test embryos coincubated with better- or equal-quality companions had better development and more cells per embryo (mean ± SEM number, 74.9 ± 16.9 and 40.6 ± 8.8, respectively, Day 7; P < 0.05) than test embryos coincubated with lesser-quality companions (5.1 ± 1.4) or alone (8.4 ± 3.7). Intermediate-quality embryos incubated with older companions had more cells per embryo (88.3 ± 17.0; P < 0.01) than those incubated with synchronous (49.3 ± 12.1) or younger (29.4 ± 6.1) embryos. The cell number of solitary embryos (9.8 ± 3.1) was less (P < 0.05) than that of every group of test embryos incubated with companions, regardless of age. In vitro development of solitary cat embryos is improved by culture with excellent-quality conspecific companions, particularly companions of an advanced age.
The Versatile Roles of “Axon Guidance” Cues in Tissue Morphogenesis

The Netrin, Slit, Semaphorin, and Ephrin families of secreted proteins were originally characterized in the nervous system as guidance cues for axons; however, recent studies demonstrate that many members of these families contribute to the development of a variety of organs. Here, the current knowledge of their roles is discussed with a focus on four tissues: lung, mammary, cardiovascular, and kidney. While many studies indicate a role for "axon guidance" cues in regulating cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions during organogenesis, there is accumulating evidence that they also contribute to tissue development by regulating the transcription and translation of genes encoding key morphogenetic factors.
Six Sigma Business Scorecard

This article presents a review of the book “Six Sigma Business Scorecard,” by Praveen Gupta.
The Long QT Syndrome: Broad Insights from Studies of a Rare Congenital Arrhythmia

The hereditary Long QT Syndrome (LQTS) is a familial disorder in which most affected family members have delayed ventricular repolarization manifest on the ECG as QT prolongation. Since 1995 when the first two genes responsible for LQTS were identified, molecular genetic studies have revealed a total of 12 genetic forms of congenital LQTS caused by mutations in genes involving potassium-channel proteins, sodium-channel proteins calcium-related channel factors, and a membrane-adapter protein. LQTS variant 3 (LQT3) is caused by mutations in SCN5A, the gene coding for the alpha subunit of the primary voltage-gated sodium channel in the heart, NaV1.5. SCN5A mutations that cause LQT3 in general disrupt Na+ channel inactivation thereby promoting a component of Na+ channel activity that persists during the plateau phase of the ventricular action potential, the cellular correlate to the QT interval of the ECG. LQT3 mutations confer distinct pharmacological properties on mutant Na+ channels which enables a mutation-specific approach to therapeutics. Here, in addition to discussing the biophysical consequences and pharmacological impact of specific LQT3 mutations, for the first time contributions of unique patient-specific complex genetics on therapeutic strategies will be discussed using cardiac myocytes derived from inducible pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells) derived from an LQT3 family.
Agriculture in the Centrally Planned Economies

From a number of viewpoints the agricultures of most centrally planned economies performed well from about 1950 to the mid1970s. Agricultural production grew more rapidly in Eastern Europe and the Soviet Union from 1950 until the early 1970s than in Western Europe or North America (USDA 1981). Per capita production of meat and other livestock products increased, in some cases at an unparalleled pace, with most of the East European countries increasing annual per capita meat consumption by approximately 20 kilograms in the 1970s (USDA 1982a). But since the mid-1970s the agriculture and food economies of Eastern Europe and the USSR have faltered and, in some cases, stagnated or even declined in terms of production (USDA 1981). Any pretense of self-sufficiency in food and agriculture has had to be abandoned. In one country strikes, riots, and martial law were responses, at least in part, to an unsatisfactory food situation. In another country bread rationing has had to be introduced-an almost unbelievable response in a world in which wheat is so abundant and cheap. In still another, meat has essentially disappeared from retail stores, with its distribution now largely controlled by employers and trade unions. And in almost all countries
Atomic structure and energy of grain boundaries in silicon, germanium and diamond

Abstract We have used Stillinger-Weber and Tersoffpotentials to calculate and simulate the atomic structures of ⟨011⟩ tilt boundaries with Σ = 1+2n2 (n = 1,2,3,4) in silicon, germanium and diamond lying in (111), (122), (133) and (144) planes with corresponding angles of 70.53°, 38.94°, 26.53° and 20.05° respectively. Both Stillinger-Weber and Tersoff potentials gave consistent values of grain boundary energies for silicon. The energies for diamond were considerably higher (about a factor of 6–7) than the corresponding values for silicon and germanium. The calculated values of the grain boundary period are in good agreement with coincidence site lattice periods. The boundaries with tilt angles θ< 20.05° can be represented by arrays of (a/2)⟨110⟩{001} dislocations with no dangling bonds. High-resolution electron microscopy results on the atomie structures of Σ=3, fivefold twins, and Σ = 9 are discussed. The high energy Σ = 9 boundary (second order twin) has been shown to split into two Iow energy Σ = 3 (fi...
Kinetic studies on human lactate dehydrogenase isoenzyme-catalyzed lactate-to-pyruvate reaction

In order to evaluate the functional differences that may exist in human lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) isoenzymes widely used for clinical examination the kinetic and thermodynamic properties of the lactate to pyruvate reaction that they catalize were examined. Small but significant differences in the kinetic properties of the three isoenzymes were observed. The difference in the rate constants might affect the activity measurement of the individual isoenzyme as the initial velocity for the L-P reaction catalyzed will not be the same for an equal amount of enzyme. Equilibrium constants for the overall reaction in the presence and absence of pyruvate have been determined. On the basis of transition-state theory, the standard enthalpy and free-energy changes for formation of ternary activated complex were positive, while the standard entropy change was negative. Although the standard free-energy change was the same for activation by the three isoenzymes, the enthalpy and entropy changes for the LDH-3-catalyzed reaction were different from the respective values for others. A large positive value for the free-energy change and a negative value for the entropy change indicated unfavorable production of the activated complex (K infeq. sup╪ =1.89×10-16). The enzyme appears to stabilize and retain the activated complex until it dissociates into the products.
Small unit operations situation awareness system

The Small Unit Operations Situation Awareness System program will develop a communications, navigation, and situation awareness system for tactical employment by widely dispersed dismounted warriors operating in highly restrictive environments. The program significantly advances the technology base for robust, highly reliable, secure communications, position determination, navigation, and situation awareness while inside and/or adjacent to buildings, tunnels and other urban structures, caves, mountainsides, natural overhands, and under double canopy foliage.
Multi-actor Markov decision processes

We give a very general reformulation of multi-actor Markov decision processes and show that there is a tendency for the actors to take the same action whenever possible. This considerably reduces the complexity of the problem, either facilitating numerical computation of the optimal policy or providing a basis for a heuristic.