cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Why do good hunters have higher reproductive success

Anecdotal evidence from many hunter-gatherer societies suggests that successful hunters experience higher prestige and greater reproductive success. Detailed quantitative data on these patterns are now available for five widely dispersed cases (Ache, Hadza, !Kung, Lamalera, and Meriam) and indicate that better hunters exhibit higher age-corrected reproductive success than other men in their social group. Leading explanations to account for this pattern are: (1) direct provisioning of hunters’ wives and offspring, (2) dyadic reciprocity, (3) indirect reciprocity, (4) costly signaling, and (5) phenotypic correlation. I examine the qualitative and quantitative evidence bearing on these explanations and conclude that although none can be definitively rejected, extensive and apparently unconditional sharing of large game somewhat weakens the first three explanations. The costly signaling explanation has support in some cases, although the exact nature of the benefits gained from mating or allying with or deferring to better hunters needs further study.
ELASTIC RESONANCES IN ELECTRON SCATTERING FROM He, Ne, Ar, Kr, Xe, AND Hg

The transmission of electrons through the rare gases and mercury vapor has been examined as a function of electron energy, with energy resolution of about 0.04 eV. Many anomalies (resonances) localized in energy have been observed, totaling 11 in helium, six in neon, two each in argon and krypton, five in xenon, and 13 in mercury. The interpretation of these resonances in terms of compound negative ion formation is discussed, and in several cases electron configurations are assigned to the negative ions. In helium, neon, xenon, and mercury, sharp decreases in transmission are observed which are attributed to the onset of inelastic processes. Definite identification of the inelastic processes in the case of helium permits calibration of the absolute electron energy scale to within \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.03 eV.
Expandable Versus Nonexpandable Cages for Thoracolumbar Burst Fracture

Background Burst fractures account for more than half of all thoracolumbar fractures and are frequently associated with spine instability and neurological deficit. The anterior approach is favored when decompression of the spinal canal is necessary. We compare two commonly available struts used for anterior approach after corpectomy: expandable versus nonexpandable titanium cages. Methods We retrospectively evaluated 32 patients with acute thoracolumbar burst fractures treated by a single surgeon with a mean follow-up of 13 months. Half of the patients had nonexpandable cages placed (group 1) and the other half had expandable cages placed (group 2). Anterolateral plate/screw supplementation was used in all patients. Radiographs were reviewed to assess kyphosis correction and bony fusion. Results In group 1, the mean kyphotic angle before surgery was 20.5 degrees. Immediately after surgery, this angle improved to 6 degrees and was 8.5 degrees at final follow-up. In group 2, the mean kyphotic angle before surgery was 21.5 degrees. This angle improved to 4 degrees immediately after surgery and was 6.5 degrees at final follow-up. At the end of follow-up, 2 of 16 patients in group 1 demonstrated pseudoarthrosis, whereas no patients in group 2 showed any evidence of nonunion. No patient in either group experienced hardware failure or new neurological deficit. Conclusions Anterior decompression and instrumented stabilization with either an expandable or nonexpandable cage is a safe and reliable surgical treatment option for unstable thoracolumbar burst fractures. Expandable cage enables greater immediate correction of kyphosis with good fusion rate.
Activity measurement and its use in predicting phase relationships in stainless steels

Abstract A combination Knudsen cell-mass spectrometer apparatus has been developed by the Bureau of Mines. This apparatus is accurate enough to permit the activity of many alloy components to be measured directly as the ratio of the ion currents of an appropriate isotope evaporated from the alloy and from the pure component. This apparatus has been used to determine the activity of each component as a function of temperature in 75Fe-10Cr-15Ni, 73Fe-6Cr-15Ni-6Al, and 75Fe-4Cr-15Ni-2Al-4Si (at%). The data indicate that additions of Ni, Cr, Al, and/or Si have practically no effect on the activity coefficient of Fe and that the partial substitution of Cr by Al and/or Si decreases the activity coefficient of Ni. In the case of Cr, temperature influences the activity coefficient more than does the content of Al and/or Si. The activity coefficient of Cr in each alloy increases with decreasing temperature, while the activity coefficients of Fe and Ni are temperature insensitive. The resistance of Fe-Ni-Cr base alloys to oxidation and sulfidation and the stability of the austenitic phase in such alloys are discussed in light of these activity changes.
Binding-protein expression is subject to temporal, developmental and stress-induced regulation in terminally differentiated soybean organs.

Binding protein (BiP) is a widely distributed and highly conserved endoplasmic-reticulum luminal protein that has been implicated in cotranslational folding of nascent polypeptides, and in the recognition and disposal of misfolded polypeptides. Analysis of cDNA sequences and genomic blots indicates that soybeans (Glycine max L. Merr.) possess a small gene family encoding BiP. The deduced sequence of BiP is very similar to that of other plant BiPs. We have examined the expression of BiP in several different terminally differentiated soybean organs including leaves, pods and seed cotyledons. Expression of BiP mRNA increases during leaf expansion while levels of BiP protein decrease. Leaf BiP mRNA is subject to temporal control, exhibiting a large difference in expression in a few hours between dusk and night. The expression of BiP mRNA varies in direct correlation with accumulation of seed storage proteins. The hybridization suggests that maturing-seed BiP is likely to be a different isoform from vegetative BiPs. Levels of BiP protein in maturing seeds vary with BiP mRNA. High levels of BiP mRNA are detected after 3 d of seedling growth. Little change in either BiP mRNA or protein levels was detected in maturing soybean pods, although BiP-protein levels decrease in fully mature pods. Persistent wounding of leaves by whiteflies induces massive overexpression of BiP mRNA while only slightly increasing BiP-protein levels. In contrast single-event puncture wounding only slightly induces additional BiP expression above the temporal variations. These observations indicate that BiP is not constitutively expressed in terminally differentiated plant organs. Expression of BiP is highest during the developmental stages of leaves, pods and seeds when their constituent cells are producing seed or vegetative storage proteins, and appears to be subject to complex regulation, including developmental, temporal and wounding. The mention of vendor or product does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by the U.S. Department of Agriculture over vendors of similar products not mentioned.
Yeast Respond to Hypotonic Shock with a Calcium Pulse

We have used the transgenic AEQUORIN calcium reporter system to monitor the cytosolic calcium ([Ca2+]cyt) response of Saccharomyces cerevisiae to hypotonic shock. Such a shock generates an almost immediate and transient rise in [Ca2+]cyt which is eliminated by gadolinium, a blocker of stretch-activated channels. In addition, this transient rise in [Ca2+]cyt is initially insensitive to 1,2-bis-(o-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (BAPTA), an extracellular calcium chelator. However, BAPTA abruptly attenuates the maintenance of that transient rise. These data show that hypotonic shock generates a stretch-activated channel-dependent calcium pulse in yeast. They also suggest that the immediate calcium influx is primarily generated from intracellular stores, and that a sustained increase in [Ca2+]cyt depends upon extracellular calcium.
Pretreatment with 1,25(OH)2D3 protects from cytoxan-induced alopecia without protecting the leukemic cells from cytoxan

ABSTRACT The authors previously demonstrated that pretreatment with 1,25(OH)2D 3 protects from Cytoxan-induced alopecia in the rat model. The current study was designed to investigate whether 1,25(OH)2D 3 protects the trans-plantable rat chloroleukemia (C51) cells from the cytotoxic effects of Cytoxan. In vitro, 4-hydro-peroxycyclophosphamide had a dose-dependent cytotoxic effect on C51 cells. In separate experiments, preincubation with 1,25(OH)2D 3 did not protect the C51 cells from the cytotoxic effects of 4-hydroperoxycyclophosphamide. In vivo, 4 groups of 10 5-day-old rats were treated as follows: Groups 1 and 2 received 0.2 fig of 1,25(OH)2D 3 topically in ethanol daily starting on day 5 through day 10. Groups 3 and 4 received ethanol topically similarly. On day 7, all rats received 1 × 10 5 C51 cells intraperitoneally. On day 11, groups 1 and 3 received 35 mg/kg Cytoxan intraperitoneally. All rats in groups 2 and 4 were dead of leukemia by day 34. In groups 1 and 3, only 1 of 10 and 2 of 10 rats died of leukemia, respectively. Alopecia developed in all rats in group 3. In contrast, all rats in group 1 were protected from Cytoxan-induced alopecia. These results indicate that, in vivo, pretreatment with 1,25(OH)2D 3 does not protect the rat chloroleukemia cells from the cytotoxic effect of Cytoxan, while protecting from Cytoxan-induced alopecia.
Luminescent Properties of Ruthenium(II) Complexes with Sterically Expansive Ligands Bound to DNA Defects

A new family of ruthenium(II) complexes with sterically expansive ligands for targeting DNA defects was prepared, and their luminescent responses to base pair mismatches and/or abasic sites were investigated. Design of the complexes sought to combine the mismatch specificity of sterically expansive metalloinsertors, such as [Rh(bpy)_2(chrysi)]^(3+) (chrysi = chrysene-5,6-quinone diimine), and the light switch behavior of [Ru(bpy)_2(dppz)]^(2+) (dppz = dipyrido[3,2-ɑ:2′,3′c]phenazine). In one approach, complexes bearing analogues of chrysi incorporating hydrogen-bonding functionality similar to dppz were synthesized. While the complexes show luminescence only at low temperatures (77 K), competition experiments with [Ru(bpy)_2(dppz)]^(2+) at ambient temperatures reveal that the chrysi derivatives preferentially bind DNA mismatches. In another approach, various substituents were introduced onto the dppz ligand to increase its steric bulk for mismatch binding while maintaining planarity. Steady state luminescence and luminescence lifetime measurements reveal that these dppz derivative complexes behave as DNA “light switches” but that the selectivity in binding and luminescence with mismatched/abasic versus well-matched DNA is not high. In all cases, luminescence depends sensitively upon structural perturbations to the dppz ligand.
General Method of Analysis of Kinetic Equations for Multistep Reversible Mechanisms in the Single-Exponential Regime: Application to Kinetics of Open Complex Formation between Eσ70 RNA Polymerase and λPR Promoter DNA

A novel analytical method based on the exact solution of equations of kinetics of unbranched first- and pseudofirst-order mechanisms is developed for application to the process of Esigma70 RNA polymerase (R)-lambdaPR promoter (P) open complex formation, which is described by the minimal three-step mechanism with two kinetically significant intermediates (I1, I2), [equation: see text], where the final product is an open complex RPo. The kinetics of reversible and irreversible association (pseudofirst order, [R] >> [P]) to form long-lived complexes (RPo and I2) and the kinetics of dissociation of long-lived complexes both exhibit single exponential behavior. In this situation, the analytical method provides explicit expressions relating observed rate constants to the microscopic rate constants of mechanism steps without use of rapid equilibrium or steady-state approximations, and thereby provides a basis for interpreting the composite rate constants of association (ka), isomerization (ki), and dissociation (kd) obtained from experiment for this or any other sequential mechanism of any number of steps. In subsequent papers, we apply this formalism to analyze kinetic data obtained in the reversible and irreversible binding regimes of Esigma70 RNA polymerase (R)-lambdaP(R) promoter (P) open complex formation.
Early reduction of cytochrome c in hypoxia.

Shifts of the steady state of cytochromes a, a3 and c at high pO2 values are cited as evidence of the low O2 affinity of cytochrome oxidase in vivo [(1971) Brain Res. 108, 143–154; (1985) Adv. Exp. Med. Biol. 191, 833–842; (1987) in: Int. Soc. Oxygen Transp. Tissue, Sapporo, p. 84]. Highly aerobic, small diploid yeast cells show <0.44% change of steady state in the interval prior to an abrupt reduction of cytochrome c. Thus, ‘pre-reduction’ seems falsified as a physiological response of metabolizing yeast cells that are free of hemoglobin, do not aggregate and maintain a steady state. Pre-reduction may be due to spectroscopic interference, for example hemoglobin deoxygenation, to oxygen gradients in aggregated cells and tissues or to non-steady states of substrate and metabolic controls, as contrasted to an altered cytochrome oxidase oxygen affinity in vivo.
Condition graphs for high-quality behavioral synthesis

Identifying mutual exclusiveness between operators during behavioral synthesis is important in order to reduce the required number of control steps or hardware resources. To improve the quality of the synthesis result, we propose a representation, the Condition Graph, and an algorithm for identification of mutually exclusive operators. Previous research efforts have concentrated on identifying mutual exclusiveness by examining language constructs such as IF-THEN-ELSE statements. Thus, their results heavily depend on the description styles. The proposed approach can produce results independent of description styles and identify more mutually exclusive operators than any previous approaches. The Condition Graph and the proposed algorithm can be used in any scheduling or binding algorithms. Experimental results on several benchmarks have shown the efficiency of the proposed representation and algorithm.
Behavioural ecology of the North Sulawesi Tarictic Hornbill Penelopides exarhatus exarhatus during the breeding season

Two nests of the North Sulawesi Tarictic Hornbill Penelopides exarhatus exarhatus were monitored for one breeding season (April-July). The females sealed themselves into the nest cavities and remained there for 70–90 days. Incubation was estimated at 16–19 days, and at both nests two offspring fledged. Tarictic Hornbills are cooperative breeders with up to three helpers at the nest and defend foraging territories of 72–139 ha. Food items delivered to the nest included fruits of 34 species (85% of diet items) and invertebrates. Provisioning by helpers allowed breeding males to reduce investment in parental care and may accelerate the development rates in chicks. Constraints on dispersal probably result from habitat saturation rather than living in an unpredictable environment.
Treatment of carotid-cavernous fistulas associated with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

Four patients with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome presented spontaneously with symptomatic direct carotid-cavernous fistulas. Two had previously (2 and 15 years, respectively) had contralateral carotid-cavernous fistulas that were treated with carotid occlusion procedures. The patients' ages at presentation ranged from 19 to 49 years, with a mean of 32 years. All four patients underwent attempted embolization procedures. Two patients had transarterial embolization, one with balloons and liquid adhesives, one with platinum coils and a balloon; the carotid artery was preserved in one and sacrificed in one other. In one patient, who underwent direct puncture of the carotid artery, a massive hematoma causing airway compromise required intubation and emergent surgical repair. The fistula spontaneously closed during this event. In the fourth patient, two transvenous embolizations resulted in markedly decreased flow, but diversion of residual flow to cortical veins produced a fatal pontine hemorrhage. The vascular fragility associated with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome can produce spontaneous direct carotid-cavernous fistulas and makes both diagnostic and therapeutic procedures more difficult.
The Allergen of Human Dander Present in Skin of the General Body Surface1

Previous studies revealed the presence, in human scalp dander, of a substance to which the majority of patients with atopic dermatitis gave positive skin reactions to tests performed by one or more of the following methods: scratch, intracutaneous, local passive transfer, patch on normal skin, patch on scratch, inunction (1, 2, 3). Attempts to detect the presence of this substance in normal skin scales scraped from the general body surface met with failure (4).
Utility of LRF/Pokemon and NOTCH1 Protein Expression in the Distinction Between Nodular Lymphocyte-Predominant Hodgkin Lymphoma and Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma:

Classical Hodgkin lymphoma (CHL) and nodular lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin lymphoma (NLPHL) are considered separate entities with different prognosis and treatment. However, morphologic features can be similar and immunohistochemical studies are essential in the distinction; thus, determination of additional biomarkers is of utmost importance. LRF/Pokemon is a proto-oncogene, an interacting partner co-expressed with BCL6 in germinal centers and highly expressed in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and follicular lymphoma. Conversely, loss of the LRF gene in mouse hematopoietic stem cells results in complete block of early B cell development with concomitant Notch de-repression, indicating its critical role in B versus T cell fate decision at the hematopoietic stem cell stage. For the first time, we show that LRF/Pokemon is predominantly expressed in NLPHL cases as is BCL6 with low to absent NOTCH1 protein expression; while Hodgkin Reed-Sternberg (HRS) cells in CHL show low to absent BCL6 and LRF/Pokemon expression with higher NOTCH1 expression. We illustrate a potential functional interaction between LRF and BCL6 in NLPHL pathogenesis, and differential expression of LRF/Pokemon and NOTCH1 proteins in CHL thus showing differential expression, making for an additional diagnostic marker and therapeutic target.
Spatial variability of upwelling on a continental shelf inferred from satellite scatterometry

This paper examines wind-driven cross-isobath flow over a shelf with complex geometry, including curved isobaths and shelf constrictions. A numerical model of the northern West Florida Shelf is analyzed to understand the response of the near-bottom cross-isobath flow to local winds. The goal of this work is to better understand the spatial variability of wind-driven cross-isobath transport patterns over an irregular shelf so that satellite scatterometer winds can be used to characterize localized regions of cross-shelf transport globally.
Chemotherapy for advanced non–small cell lung cancer

Lung cancer is an aggressive disease with poor prognosis after it has advanced. Over the past several years, there has been slow but steady progress in treatment options. Chemotherapy results in a modest improvement in survival, improved quality of life, and decreased pulmonary symptoms. For first-line therapy, platinum-based regimens have generally been the standard of care, with no one regimen clearly superior to the others in terms of overall survival, although there may be differences in response rates, time to progression, toxicities, cost, and schedule. There does not appear to be such a uniform consensus for nonplatinum agents. Triplet regimens are not more effective than doublet regimens and are more toxic and expensive. Chemotherapy should be given for four cycles unless there is unaccepted toxicity or disease progression. Patients with poor PS generally experience increased toxicities and fewer benefits, although this finding needs further investigation to ascertain the appropriate treatment. In second-line setting, docetaxel is the agent that has been extensively studied and approved. Furthermore, molecularly targeted therapy holds a promising future and is discussed in articles elsewhere in this issue. Lung cancer is an aggressive disease with poor prognosis after it has advanced. Over the past several years, there has been slow but steady progress in treatment options. Chemotherapy results in a modest improvement in survival, improved quality of life, and decreased pulmonary symptoms. For first-line therapy, platinum-based regimens have generally been the standard of care, with no one regimen clearly superior to the others in terms of overall survival, although there may be differences in response rates, time to progression, toxicities, cost, and schedule. There does not appear to be such a uniform consensus for nonplatinum agents. Triplet regimens are not more effective than doublet regimens and are more toxic and expensive. Chemotherapy should be given for four cycles unless there is unaccepted toxicity or disease progression. Patients with poor PS generally experience increased toxicities and fewer benefits, although this finding needs further investigation to ascertain the appropriate treatment. In second-line setting, docetaxel is the agent that has been extensively studied and approved. Furthermore, molecularly targeted therapy holds a promising future and is discussed in articles elsewhere in this issue.
Overview of Achievements and Challenges of the Fight against AIDS in China

The epidemic of HIV/AIDS exists in China from more than 26 years and is still at a low prevalence (<0.06%) on the global level. The purpose of this paper is to disclose the rational of how to keep the low rate through strenthening key strategies and comprehensive measures for prevention and control of the disease using collecting, reviewing, and analyzing surveillance data, special materials from publications, national meetings, symposiums, and forums, major research results as well as the personal experiences within the period of 1985–2011. In the meantime, the paper mentions that currently China is facing challenges and also going to carry out its actions concerning how to deal with the problems in order to respond to the UN CALL on “Getting to Zero”.
Open versus endoscopic great saphenous vein harvest for lower extremity revascularization of critical limb ischemia

Objective This study determined wound complication rates, intervention rates, failure mechanisms, patency, limb salvage, and overall survival after lower extremity revascularization using open vein harvest (OVH) vs endoscopic vein harvest (EVH) for critical limb ischemia. Methods A single-institution review was conducted of consecutive patients who underwent infrainguinal bypass with a single-segment reversed great saphenous vein between 2005 and 2012. Results A total of 251 patients with critical limb ischemia underwent revascularization, comprising 153 with OVH and 98 with EVH. The OVH group had a lower mean body mass index (26.7 vs 29.9 kg/m 2 ; P = .001). There were no other differences in demographics, comorbidities, medications, smoking, or in the proximal or distal anastomotic site. Median operative times were 249 minutes (OVH) vs 316 minutes (EVH; P P P = .416). During follow-up, 21 OVH grafts (14%) and 27 EVH grafts (28%) underwent an intervention ( P = .048). There were a similar number of surgical interventions: 50% (OVH) vs 61% (EVH; P = .449). Failed grafts had a mean of 1.2 stenoses per graft, regardless of harvest method. Median stenosis length was 2.1 cm (OVH) vs 2.5 cm (EVH; P = .402). At 1 and 3 years, the primary patency was 71% and 52% (OVH) vs 58% and 41% (EVH; P = .010), and secondary patency was 88% and 71% (OVH) vs 88% and 64% (EVH; P = .266). A secondary patency Cox proportional hazard model showed EVH had a hazard ratio of 2.93 (95% confidence interval, 1.03-8.33; P = .044). Overall and harvest-related wound complications were 44% and 29% (OVH) vs 37% and 12% (EVH; P = .226 and P = .002). At 5 years, amputation-free survival was 48% (OVH) vs 54% (EVH; P = .305), and limb salvage was 89% (OVH) and 91% (EVH; P = .615). Conclusions OVH and EVH have similar failure mechanisms, limb salvage, amputation-free survival, and overall survival. EVH is associated with impaired patency, increased need for intervention, longer operative times, shorter hospital stays, and decreased vein harvest site wound complications. OVH of the great saphenous vein may provide optimal patency but was not necessarily associated with better patient-centered outcomes. Similar limb salvage rates and amputation-free survival may justify the use of EVH, despite inferior patency, to capture shorter hospital stays and decreased wound complications.
Metabolism of dehydroepiandrosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate in tissue extracts of rabbit ovaries

Abstract The simultaneous incubation of 3H-dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate and 14C-dehydroepiandrosterone by soluble and microsomal extracts of rabbit ovaries was investigated. 3H-dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate was converted to 3H-androstenediol-3-sulfate by both extracts. Only the microsomal extract converted 3H-dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate to 3H-testosterone, 3H-Δ4-androstenedione and 3H-3β-hydroxy,5α-saturated steroids. Both extracts converted 14C-dehydroepiandrosterone to 14C-testosterone, 14C-Δ4-androstenedione and 14C-3β-hydroxy,5α-saturated steroids. Δ5-androstenediol was not detected as a product in the incubation with either the soluble or the microsomal extract.
Hyperacceleration effects on turbulent combustion in premixed step-stabilized flames

Abstract Experimental results are presented from an investigation of the effects of large transverse accelerations on flame propagation and blowout limits in premixed step-stabilized flames. The accelerations, which exceed ±10,000 g in the present study, induce large body forces on the high-density reactants and low-density products. These body forces can substantially alter the flame propagation mechanisms and dramatically increase the flame blowout limits. Sustained centripetal accelerations a c ≡ U 2 / R are created by flowing a premixed propane–air reactant stream with equivalence ratios 0.7 ⩽ Φ ⩽ 1.9 at various speeds U through a semicircular channel with radius R . A backward-facing step of height h on the radially outer ( a c > 0) or inner ( a c a c > 0 the acceleration acts to force high-density reactants into the recirculation zone and low-density products into the reactant stream, while a c a c = 0) results for comparison. The flow speed U , equivalence ratio Φ , and step height h are systematically varied for a c = 0, a c > 0, and a c a c → +∞ the propagation of the flame across the channel becomes independent of the flame burning velocity and instead is primarily due to large-scale “centrifugal pumping” driven by the induced body forces. For a c → −∞ the body forces effectively segregate reactants and products to produce a nearly flat flame. In both cases, for large | a c | values the resulting blowout limits can be substantially higher than those at a c = 0.
Novel Hemin Binding Domains in the Corynebacterium diphtheriae HtaA Protein Interact with Hemoglobin and Are Critical for Heme Iron Utilization by HtaA

The human pathogen Corynebacterium diphtheriae utilizes hemin and hemoglobin as iron sources for growth in iron-depleted environments. The use of hemin iron in C. diphtheriae involves the dtxR- and iron-regulated hmu hemin uptake locus, which encodes an ABC hemin transporter, and the surface-anchored hemin binding proteins HtaA and HtaB. Sequence analysis of HtaA and HtaB identified a conserved region (CR) of approximately 150 amino acids that is duplicated in HtaA and present in a single copy in HtaB. The two conserved regions in HtaA, designated CR1 and CR2, were used to construct glutathione S-transferase (GST) fusion proteins (GST-CR1 and GST-CR2) to assess hemin binding by UV-visual spectroscopy. These studies showed that both domains were able to bind hemin, suggesting that the conserved sequences are responsible for the hemin binding property previously ascribed to HtaA. HtaA and the CR2 domain were also shown to be able to bind hemoglobin (Hb) by the use of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method in which Hb was immobilized on a microtiter plate. The CR1 domain exhibited a weak interaction with Hb in the ELISA system, while HtaB showed no significant binding to Hb. Competitive binding studies demonstrated that soluble hemin and Hb were able to inhibit the binding of HtaA and the CR domains to immobilized Hb. Moreover, HtaA was unable to bind to Hb from which the hemin had been chemically removed. Alignment of the amino acid sequences of CR domains from various Corynebacterium species revealed several conserved residues, including two highly conserved tyrosine (Y) residues and one histidine (H) residue. Site-directed mutagenesis studies showed that Y361 and H412 were critical for the binding to hemin and Hb by the CR2 domain. Biological assays showed that Y361 was essential for the hemin iron utilization function of HtaA. Hemin transfer experiments demonstrated that HtaA was able to acquire hemin from Hb and that hemin bound to HtaA could be transferred to HtaB. These findings are consistent with a proposed mechanism of hemin uptake in C. diphtheriae in which hemin is initially obtained from Hb by HtaA and then transferred between surface-anchored proteins, with hemin ultimately transported into the cytosol by an ABC transporter.
The effects of vasoactive agents, platelet agonists and anticoagulation on thrombelastography.

Background: Platelet activation is a critical step in primary hemostasis and clot formation. We tested a hypothesis that platelet stimulating effects of vasoactive agents or platelet agonists could be shown using thrombelastography (TEG®) as faster onset or increased clot strength. We further examined if TEG® could be modified to evaluate activated platelets as a reversal of anticoagulation in the presence of partial thrombin inhibition. Methods: Blood samples were obtained from 126 non-cardiac surgical patients. Effects of vasoactive agents on TEG® and aggregometry were examined using epinephrine, norepinephrine, vasopressin, desmopressin acetate, milrinone and olprinone (Experiment I). Platelet agonists (epinephrine, ADP and collagen) were separately tested on TEG® (Experiment II). Effects of platelet agonists (ADP and collagen) on TEG® under anticoagulation in the absence or presence of abciximab were studied (Experiment III). We also tested antiplatelet effects of milrinone and olprinone in the presence of anticoagulants on TEG® (Experiment IV). Results: Neither vasoactive agents nor platelet agonists affected TEG® or aggregometry results except for milrinone and olprinone on aggregometry (Experiment I, II). Platelet agonists facilitated clotting in the presence of anticoagulants (Experiment III). Abciximab-treated platelets still exhibited procoagulant effects in the presence of heparin, while not in the presence of argatroban (Experiment III). Platelet inhibition on the modified TEG® was more extensive with milrinone than olprinone, and it was dose dependent (Experiment IV). Conclusion: Modified TEG® using heparin or argatroban might delineate the procoagulant effects of platelets by adding platelet specific agonist.
High efficiency plasmonic probe design for parallel near-field optics applications

We study a high efficiency plasmonic near-field probe that integrates a spiral plasmonic lens and a sharp conical tip under circular polarized illumination. To achieve high field enhancement, two layers of spiral plasmonic lens and a composite tip design are adopted. The plasmonic probe exhibits optical spin dependence due to the use of spiral plasmonic lens. Under 633 nm wavelength excitation, an electric field enhancement factor of 366 and circular polarization extinction ratio of 81 can be achieved. Such a spin dependence enables the hot spot at the tip apex to be switched on and off by modulating the polarization handedness. The probe can be made in an array format that is suitable for large area parallel near-field optics applications such as lithography and microscopy.
MRI of enlarged dorsal ganglia, lumbar nerve roots, and cranial nerves in polyradiculoneuropathies

This paper describes the MRI findings in four patients with a clinical diagnosis of hypertrophic polyradiculoneuropathies. In two examination of the lumbar spine showed enlarged nerve roots and dorsal ganglia, and similar findings were present in the cervical spine in a third. The cisternal portions of the cranial nerves were enlarged in another patient. MRI allows identification of enlarged nerves in hypertrophic polyradiculopathies.
Evidence for the binding of Ng-CAM to laminin.

Ng-CAM is a cell adhesion molecule mediating neuron-glia and neuron-neuron adhesion via different binding mechanisms. While its binding can be homophilic as demonstrated by the self-aggregation of Ng-CAM coated beads (Covaspheres), Ng-CAM has also been shown to bind to glia by a heterophilic mechanism. In the present study, we found that the extent of Ng-CAM Covasphere aggregation was strongly diminished in the presence of the extracellular matrix glycoprotein laminin. When proteolytic fragments of laminin were tested, the P1′ fragment (obtained from the short arms by pepsin treatment) was found to inhibit aggregation of Ng-CAM-Covaspheres while the elastase fragments E3 and E8 (from the long arm) were ineffective. To provide other means of analyzing interactions between laminin and Ng-CAM, the two proteins were covalently linked to differently fluorescing Covaspheres and tested for coaggregation. Laminin-Covaspheres coaggregated with Ng-CAM-Covaspheres, and this binding was inhibited both by anti-Ng-CAM ...
An African Gospel of Survival in an Age of Ecological Destruction

This paper uses the example of African Christians known as Masowe Apostles to answer Ernst Conradie’s questions about the construction of culturally appropriate soteriological concepts for saving the earth. It is argued that Masowe Apostles develop a soteriological concept that is comprehensible among Shona speaking people, and hundreds of other groups African people living with problems of global warming in sub-Sahara Africa. With God conceptualized as the giver of life in whom to place hope for saving the earth, Masowe Apostles lay for us foundational ideas for a distinctly African soteriology in an age of ecological destruction. Masowe Apostles highlight their need for salvation by worshipping God in a language that draws attention to nature, and by making it a point to pray out-doors, in the wilderness, close of barren soil, and sometimes unoccupied forests, mountains and rivers. This paper begins with a summary of the background to environmental degradation in Africa. It ends with a discussion on how to go beyond instilling and reinforcing ecotheological attitudes that Masowe Apostles show through what they express on a ritual plane to making the concept of the salvation of earth a way of promoting earthkeeping.
Pathological case of the month. Primary bone lymphoma: diffuse large B-cell type.

10-YEAR-OLD Hispanic boy fell from a swing, had medial joint pain of the lower left extremity, and was unable to fully extend the knee. Plain radiography of the left lower extremity showed no evidence of fracture or dislocation. Arthroscopy revealed an old anterior cruciate ligament tear and exuberant synovium; biopsy findings showed fibrosis. Persistent inability to fully extend the knee and proximal tibial tenderness prompted repeated radiographic evaluation. Anterior, posterior, and lateral plain radiographs of the left tibia (Figure 1) revealed an illdefined lytic lesion in the proximal tibial epiphysis. Soft tissue swelling was appreciated at the joint space on lateral view. On a T1-weighted magnetic resonance image, the lesion was crossing the growth plate and extended into the metaphysis. It was centrally located but extended laterally and medially to the epiphyseal and metaphyseal margins (Figure 2). The patient underwent left tibial biopsy (Figure 3).
A New, Small-color-difference Equation for Dental Shades

Traditionally, dental-shade-guide standards are designated in terms of Munsell hue (H), value (V), and chroma (C). However, delta E color differences proposed as ADA tolerances for shade guides are in the CIE L*a*b* system. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a new color-difference equation, delta EM = C delta H/5 + 7 delta V + 4 delta C for estimation of small color differences by Munsell parameters. The published values of the Bioform shade-guide tooth colors determined with a Beckman spectrophotometer were used. Color differences among 276 combinations of the 24 Bioform shade-guide colors were calculated with Eq. 1, with use of the Munsell notation, and also with the CIE L*a*b* equation for delta E. An estimate of the accuracy of Eq. 1 was 0.41 delta E units when delta E CIE was below 4.0. The Vita shade-guide colors were determined with a Beckman spectrophotometer. This data set contained 16 samples, and 120 combinations were used for calculation of color difference. An estimate of the accuracy for this set of data was 0.35 delta E units when delta E CIE was less than 4.0. The new color-difference equation provides a means for estimation of delta E CIE L*a*b* color difference between dental shades with Munsell notation. This equation will be useful for estimation of small delta E CIE L*a*b* values for shade-guide teeth that are designated in terms of Munsell notation.
Mass spectrometric studies at high temperatures XXV. Vapor composition over LaCl3, EuCl3 and LuCl3 and stabilities of the trichloride dimers

Abstract Mass spectrometric studies of the vapors over LaCl3(s), EuC13(S), EuCl2(l) and the mixture EuCl3 + LuCl3 indicate the existence of dimers in small amount (1%) at pressures of less than 0.1 mm. However, the data predict dimers to be a more dominant species at temperatures approaching the boiling point. Ion current vs. temperature data yield heats of vaporization or sublimation that are in good agreement with previous results as well as values for the heats of dimerization. With absolute pressure data, one calculates the entropy for the reaction 2LaCl3(g) = La2Cl6(g) to be ΔS °1000 °K = −30.0 ± 3.0 e.u./mole of dimer. The proportion of dimer to monomer, as indicated by the heats of dimerization, varies considerably with the nature of the metal. No dimerization or significant disproportionation of EuCl2(g) was found.
Evidence for activation of the renal glutamate dehydrogenase pathway in intact acidotic dogs

Evidence for activation of the renal glutamate dehydrogenase pathway in intact acidotic dogs. To determine if activity of the renal glutamate dehydrogenase (GD) pathway changes during chronic acidosis in intact dogs, we assessed the deamination of glutamate formed within renal cells during glutamine and alanine infusions. Infusing glutamine into chronically acidotic, normal, and acutely alkalotic dogs enhanced renal ammonia production; more was formed as glutamine loading increased. In 4 acidotic dogs, the ratio of ammonia produced to glutamine extracted by the kidneys during exogenous glutamine loading was 1.93 compared with 0.99 for 5 alkalotic dogs and 1.23 for 2 control dogs. Little glutamate and alanine were released into the renal vein in acidotic dogs, whereas over 50% of the exogenous glutamine extracted in acutely alkalotic dogs could be accounted for as glutamate and alanine released into the renal vein. Renal glutamate concentrations were not elevated in acidosis compared with alkalosis despite greater deamidation. When glutamine infusions increased renal ammoniagenesis in acutely alkalotic and control dogs to levels seen in chronically acidotic dogs receiving no exogenous glutamine, approximately 4 to 6 times more glutamate was released from the kidneys. Infusing alanine into 7 chronically acidotic dogs enhanced ammoniagenesis significantly (P Preuve de l'activation de la voie de la glutamate dehydrogenase renale chez le chien intact en acidose. Afin de savoir si l'activite de la voie glutamate dehydrogenase renale (GD) change au cours de l'acidose chronique chez le chien intact, nous avons evalue la deamination de glutamate forme a l'interieur des cellules renales au cours de perfusions de glutamine et d'alanine. La perfusion de glutamine chez des chiens en acidose chronique, normaux ou en alcalose aigue, augmente la production renale d'ammoniaque, celle-ci augmente quand la charge de glutamine augmente. Chez 4 chiens en acidose, le rapport de l'ammoniaque produit sur la glutamine extraite par les reins au cours de la charge en glutamine exogene etait de 1,93 contre 0,99 pour 5 chiens en alcalose et 1,23 pour 2 chiens controles. Peu de glutamate et d'alanine ont ete liberes dans la veine renale des chiens en acidose alors que plus de 50% de la glutamine exogene extraite chez les chiens en alcalose aigue sont constitues de glutamate de d'alanine liberes dans la veine renale. Les concentrations renales de glutamate n'etaient pas elevees dans G acidose par comparaison avec l'alcalose malgre une plus grande deanimation. Quand des perfusions de glutamine ont augmente l'ammoniogenese renale, chez des chiens en alcalose aigue et chez des controles, a des niveaux comparables a ceux des chiens en acidose ne recevant pas de glutamine exogene, quatre a six fois plus de glutamine a ete liberee par les reins. La perfusion d'alanine a 7 chiens en acidose chronique a augmente significativement l'ammoniogenese (P
Observations of Copolar Correlation Coefficient through a Bright Band at Vertical Incidence

This paper discusses an application of polarimetric measurements at vertical incidence. In particular, the correlation coefficients between linear copolar components are examined, and measurements obtained with the National Severe Storms Laboratory (NSSL)'s and National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR)'s polarimetric radars are presented. The data are from two well-defined bright bands. A sharp decrease of the correlation coefficient, confined to a height interval of a few hundred meters, marks the bottom of the bright band.
Reversal of CNS-prophylaxis-related leukoencephalopathy after CSF shunting: case histories of identical twins

We report the case histories of identical twin brothers who developed concordant acute lymphoblastic leukemia at the age of 4 years and who later developed leukoencephalopathy and hydrocephalus related to central nervous system prophylaxis by, in the first case intrathecally administered methotrexate and, in the second by intrathecally administered methotrexate and cranial irradiation. The delayed encephalopathy developed 9 and 22 months respectively after the first dose of intrathecal methotrexate. Both patients underwent cerebrospinal fluid shunting mainly for their hydrocephalus. The imaging studies have shown that both hydrocephalus and leukoencephalopathy have improved significantly after ventriculoperitoneal shunt insertion. We review the pathophysiology of prophylaxis-related encephalopathy in leukemia patients and summarize its clinical, histological, and radiological characteristics. We also discuss the possible contribution of altered cerebrospinal fluid dynamics in the development of leukoencephalopathy.
Are Hydrogen Bonds Covalent or Electrostatic? A Molecular Orbital Comparison of Molecules in Electric Fields and H-Bonding Environments

The extent to which hydrogen-bonding can be considered to be a covalent or resonance effect, rather than an electrostatic or electrostatic plus polarization effect, is modeled by ab initio molecular orbital calculations in graded uniform electric fields of molecules that form chains of H-bonds. The stabilization energy, dipole moments, and relaxed geometrical structural parameters of these molecules are tabulated as a function of applied field. The H-bonding interactions of a molecule are judged to be due to electrostatic and polarization effects if all of the tabulated parameters agree with those calculated for an infinite chain of H-bonding molecules at the same value of the applied electric field. If these parameters individually agree with those of the infinite chain of H-bonding dimers at substantially different values of the applied field, effects other than electrostatic and polarization, such as covalent or resonance effects, must be important. Of the two molecules studied, urea appears to be reas...
Applied anatomy of the lower extremity

Anatomy is the single most important factor for success in peripheral nerve blocks, regardless of the technique (ie, nerve stimulator or ultrasound). The following is a review of those aspects of the anatomy of the lower extremity that can be considered essential for a safe and successful practice.
Aggregate accessibility to population at the county level: U.S. 1940–2000

A classic study by Harris (1954) shows a map of U.S. national accessibility. Harris argued that access to population and income represents a critical factor for location analysis. Such maps and analyses are now readily produced by geographical information systems, allowing experimentation with various parameters, and explorations of changes. By comparing changes in these measurements we can develop a synthetic picture of the impacts of population redistribution. This paper offers a comprehensive review of these calculations and illustrates their use with maps from county population in the continental U.S. from 1940 through to 2000.
NEUTRON YIELD OF $sup 252$Cf BASED ON ABSOLUTE MEASUREMENTS OF THE NEUTRON RATE AND FISSION RATE.

The need for accurate measurements of the total yield of neutrons ($\ensuremath{\nu}$) in spontaneous fission of $^{252}\mathrm{Cf}$ has continued. Such a measurement, incorporating advances over previous work, has been accomplished with a high degree of authentication. The yield was determined by separate direct evaluations of the neutron rate and fission rate of three fission-fragment counters plated with $^{252}\mathrm{Cf}$. The neutron emission-rate factor in the yield was found with the aid of a manganese-bath facility independently calibrated with reference to absolute $\ensuremath{\beta}\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\gamma}$ coincidence counting of $^{56}\mathrm{Mn}$. Special measurements were also made of other subsidiary parameters, while precise support in the accuracy of neutron assay was obtained from comparisons with international standard sources. The fission rate was derived primarily from absolute fission-neutron coincidence data obtained from the fission counters, with special attention to angular-correlation effects. The resulting value of $\ensuremath{\nu}(^{252}\mathrm{Cf})=3.725\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.015$ (total yield) is generally independent of cross sections, neutron spectrum assumptions, counting statistics, and fission-fragment self-absorption. The error assigned is a combination of statistical and systematic effects at a confidence level of 68%. Two unverified correction factors have been isolated.
Neogene relative motion between the Pacific plate, the mantle, and the Earth's spin axis

The northward rates of motion for the central equatorial Pacific during the past 24 Myr vary between ∼20–30 mm yr−1 based on the migration of sedimentary facies, ∼30 mm yr−1 based on the age and orientation of the Hawaiian ridge, and ∼50–60 mm yr−1 based on palaeomagnetically determined sediment and basalt palaeolatitudes. To resolve the differences between hot spot and palaeomagnetic results we may need to invoke a long-term drift in the orientation of the geomagnetic field, or a northerly component of motion of the Hawaiian hot spot relative to the Earth's spin axis.