cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Escherichia coli lac operator mRNA affects translation initiation of β-galactosidase mRNA

THE primary function of the start of a message (mRNA for a specific polypeptide) is to ensure the correct initiation of translation. Little is known about the factors determining the frequency of translation or indeed if its variability is important in the total expression of genes. Recently, an analysis was introduced that allows calculation of in vivo frequencies; it was shown that the in vivo initiation rates of the first and last messages of the lac mRNA differ by fivefold1. Different initiation frequencies could be effected, in part at least, by a sequence of three or more nucleotides about 8 to 15 residues upstream from the initiating AUG codon that is complementary to a purine-rich sequence at the end of the 16S ribosomal RNA2,3. Four such complementary nucleotides are residues 8–11 before the AUG start of the β-galactosidase (EC 3.2.1.23, βGase) message. Mutants for this sequence are not available, but there is a whole series for a more distant region—22 to 34 nucleotides before the AUG: the lac Oc mutants. Here we show that certain of these mutations affect the rate of translation as well as the stability of this message.
Efficiency and the Uniform Linear Minorization of Convex Functions

LetX be a Banach space, and let {fi:ieI} be a family of proper lower semicontinuous convex functions defined onX, each of whose epigraphs meets a fixed bound subset ofX×ℝ. We say that {fi:ieI} is uniformly linearly minorized if there exists a positive scalar μ such that for allieI andxeX, we havefi(x)≥−μ(1+‖x‖). We present two very different characterizations of uniform linear minorization for such a family. Using one of these, we show that either strong or weak epi-convergence of a sequence of convex functions at some point in the effective domain of the limit implies, uniform linear minorization for the entire sequence.
Symbolic construction of a 2-D scale-space image

A symbolic approach to constructing a multiscale primitive shape description to 2-D binary (silhouette) shape images is presented. In contrast to contour or region smoothing techniques, grouping operations are performed over collections of tokens residing on a scale-space blackboard. Two types of grouping operations are identified that, respectively, aggregate edge primitives at one scale into edge primitives at a coarser scale and group edge primitives into partial-region assertions, including curved contours, primitive corners, and bars. Procedures to perform these computations are presented. >
Further evidence for a cognitive component of rape

Abstract In this literature review, the proposition that cognitions play a crucial role in men's desire to rape is presented. A variety of research on rapists will be reviewed, including research on date rapists, marital rapists, and convicted offenders. The main thesis is that men's cognitions foster rape. These cognitions involve rapists' attitudes and beliefs about sex (e.g., rape-supportive beliefs, sexual preoccupation, and hypersexuality), their sexual scripts (including fantasies and sexual plans), and their beliefs about appropriate masculinity (i.e., hypermasculinity). This model proposes that acquaintance and incarcerated rapists are linked by a common belief system. These cognitions provide justifications of rape for the potential rapist by promoting sexual narcissism and by suggesting women's complicity in rape. They give rapists a sense of entitlement and aid in the planning and preparation for rape. They also encourage rapists' denial and minimization of rape. Thus, it is what some men think that enables them to rape. In the current literature review, most of the research on date or acquaintance rape comes from surveys of college students. Most of the research on marital rape comes from interviews with victims. Moreover, most of the research on incarcerated offenders comes from research on hospitalized or imprisoned populations. There are also studies on gang rape, serial rapists, rapist–murderers, and homosexual rape, but these are less common and therefore less frequently included in the review. Also rare is research on female rapists, which will not be included in the review. Thus, the vast majority of research reviewed in the current article is on college students and convicted offenders. It is the contention of this article that these rapists have much in common regarding their beliefs about sex, rape, and masculinity.
Microscopic investigations of chemo-mechanical polishing of tungsten

Abstract The influence of aqueous solutions of KNO 3 , KClO 3 , and KIO 3 on tungsten surfaces has been investigated in terms of the degree of surface oxidation, metal dissolution and interfacial friction. The surface properties of tungsten films have been measured ex-situ with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and in situ with atomic force microscopy. Measurements of the surface composition reveal a greater degree of oxidation for surfaces treated in solutions of KIO 3 in comparison to the other solutions. This increase in surface oxidation is correlated to a greater rate of localized film dissolution that occurs under the action of the scanning probe tip. In turn, the process of material removal is the predominant origin of the higher interfacial friction measured at tungsten surfaces immersed in KIO 3 solutions, as compared to KClO 3 and KNO 3 solutions. Collectively, these measurements portray a fundamental pathway of material removal at tungsten surfaces in the presence of oxidizing species and highlight complementary roles of chemical and mechanical action.
Channel-adaptive zero-margin & process-adaptive self-healing communication circuits/systems

Communication circuits/systems suffer from design margins required to support wide channel variations, increasing manufacturing process variations and multi-standard operation. Recent advances in channel and process adaptive communication systems, enabling zero-margin power-efficient operation and adaptive variation-tolerant self-healing systems enabling yield improvement are discussed.
Ecological studies on Potamogeton pectinatus L. III: reproductive strategies and germination ecology

Abstract This third paper on the ecology of Potamogeton pectinatus L. deals with the reproductive strategies of different populations of this species. The various ways of propagation and survival, both generative and vegetative, are described. Attention is also given to the germination ecology of achenes and tubers. Flowering and achene production have been observed in most populations studied and the process of fructification is described in detail. Inflorescences of P. pectinatus are surface pollinated and the pollen is hydrophobous. The formation of seed banks by populations appears to be largely dependent on the degree of shelter in the habitats, the number of achenes produced seems to be less important. The results of the germination experiments with achenes support the field observations, indicating that achenes are relatively unimportant in the shory-term survival of populations. The main function of these generative propagules is most likely the dispersal of the species and the long-term survival. Potamogeton pectinatus shows several types of vegetative propagation. Subterranean tubers are the most common and most important propagules. Temperature and stratification appear to be major factors regulating the germination of tubers. The reproduction of P. pectinatus is discussed in relation to the life cycle and survival strategy of the populations.
Special Issue on Wheelchair Transportation Safety – Introduction

Full integration of wheelchair users into our communities and societies is key to maximizing their potential to live productive and fulfilling lives. Transportation plays an important role in meeting this goal. Many wheelchair users travel seated in their wheelchairs and do so using a variety of transport modes; these include private vehicles, fixed-route transit vehicles and demand-responsive vehicles. Wheelchair users travel as both wheelchair-seated drivers and passengers. Safe transportation for these individuals is dependent upon a structurally sound wheelchair, securement of the wheelchair to the vehicle, and use of an appropriately positioned crashworthy occupant restraint system. Moreover, the transportation process, which includes boarding and alighting from the vehicle requires the provision of safe and usable wheelchair ramps or lifts. Each of these components must be designed to function as a cohesive system providing safety, independence and usability for wheelchair users. Language: en
Multiple sex partners and perceived risk of HIV infection in Zambia: attitudinal determinants and gender differences

While there is much attention on perceived risk of HIV and subsequent cautionary behavior, evidence of the reciprocity of the relationship between recent risky sexual behavior and perceived risks of HIV infection remains scarce. This paper tests the hypothesis that having multiple sex partners within the last 12 months influences individual's perceived risk of HIV among Zambian men and women. It also examines attitudinal factors associated with having multiple sex partners and perceived HIV risk. Data come from the 2005 Household and Community Surveys of the Health Communication Partnership project. The sample includes 2610 men and women, and 445 community leaders in 36 districts. Tests of exogeneity confirm that having multiple sex partners is exogenous to perceived risk of HIV infection. Structural equation modeling is employed to test the hypothesis. Findings show that having multiple partners is the strongest predictor of perceived risk of HIV. Men were also more likely than women to have multiple sex partners, but less likely to consider themselves at risk of HIV, compared to women. Men were also more likely to be influenced by their peers and community members. Women were more likely than men to report some risk of HIV if they were aware of their partner's serostatus and had more interpersonal communication on HIV. Married women were less likely to consider themselves at risk than unmarried women. The findings indicate that it is essential for men to recognize the connections between unsafe sex behaviors and risks of HIV infection and that distinct intervention approaches to Zambian men and women are needed. While couple communication needs to be enhanced for both, community-based interventions that approach men are particularly important.
Group psychotherapy for children of fathers with PTSD: Evidence of psychopathology emerging in the group process

Growing awareness of the high incidence of PTSD, particularly among Vietnam veterans, has been associated with increasing interest in the impact that PTSD has on the families and children of these patients. The present report describes a psychotherapy group conducted with latency aged children of Vietnam veterans concurrently receiving outpatient treatment for PTSD. During the course of the group significant levels of psychopathology became evident in many of the members, particularly in the areas of modulation of aggressive impulses, ability to relate to peers and siblings in an age appropriate fashion, ability to obtain help from adult caregivers in coping with stress, and ability to cope with psychosocial stress without severe regression. The need for further research to determine what types of psychopathology that children of parents with PTSD may be at increased risk of developing, and what the optimal treatment strategies are for this population, is discussed.
Asthma adherence management for the clinician.

Background Nonadherence to asthma treatment has been related to increased hospital and emergency care, morbidity, and unnecessary costs. Improving patient adherence is a key component to achieving optimal outcomes. Objective Review barriers, interventions, and communication skills shown to be effective in promoting asthma adherence. Methods Asthma adherence literature was reviewed. Results Sequential management principles to achieve adherence include the following: (1) measuring adherence, (2) identifying barriers that result in nonadherence, (3) using specific strategies to overcome barriers; and (4) using communication skills to enhance the delivery of selected strategies. Conclusion Careful attention to adherence management principles may increase adherence, enhance outcomes, and reduce unnecessary morbidity and cost. The case described applies these principles and gives the reader a framework to review.
The effect of temperature and initial pH on biomimetic apatite coating.

Bone-like apatite coatings were prepared using a biomimetic method in a simulated body fluid (SBF). The effect of initial pH values and immersing temperatures on biomimetic apatite coating formation was studied. Three different temperatures were used in this study: 24 (room temperature), 40, and 60°C. At each temperature, SBF solutions with three different initial pHs were chosen: low, medium, and high. The total inorganic carbon (TIC) content and pH-time profile of each coating system were recorded during the coating formation. The apatite coatings were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), and Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR). It has been found that SBF temperature has a great effect on the bicarbonate decomposition rate. The bicarbonate ions tend to decompose faster as the temperature increases. The decomposition of bicarbonate ions results in a pH increase in the SBF. With different initial SBF pHs, the decomposition of different amounts of bicarbonate ions is required to reach the critical pH range of apatite formation. With different amounts of bicarbonate ions in the SBF, the surface morphology of the biomimetic apatite coating formed is different. Therefore, the initial pH of the SBF solution plays a vital role in controlling the surface morphology of the biomimetic apatite coating. Also, it was found that as the SBF temperature increased, the critical pH range at which biomimetic apatite coating forms decreased. The critical pH range for the SBF prepared at 24, 40, and 60°C was 6.65–6.71, 6.55–6.65, and 6.24–6.42, respectively. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2008
Adult to adult living-related liver transplant: report on an initial experience in Italy.

Abstract Introduction Living-related liver transplantation has become the treatment of choice for many liver diseases. We present our initial analysis of 53 cases of adult to adult living-related liver transplantation performed in a single institute in Italy. Materials and methods From January 2002 to September 2006, we performed 53 adult to adult living-related liver transplantations. The donors (age 18–53) all had genetic or emotional relationships; they were all ABO identical or compatible. Recipients (ages 18–68) suffered from cirrhosis secondary to viral etiology (18), hepatocellular carcinoma with viral cirrhosis (24), cystic fibrosis (2), primary biliary cirrhosis (2), hepatocellular carcinoma with non-viral cirrhosis (2), alcoholic cirrhosis (1), ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency (OTC), (1) criptogenic cryptogenic cirrhosis, (1) primary sclerosing cholangitis, (1) biliary atresia and metastatic carcinoid (1). Donor liver resection resulted in 51 right hepatectomies and two left hepatectomies. Graft body weight ratio was always above 0.8%; graft implantation was performed with the piggy back technique and, in 43 cases, with the use of veno-venous bypass. Results There was neither donor mortality nor need of blood transfusion. Actuarial recipient survival rate at 3 years was 82.66% and graft survival rate was 75.34%. Six patients underwent retransplantation: in four cases due to hepatic artery thrombosis, and in two, due to graft dysfunction. Three patients had one episode each of acute cellular rejection. Conclusion Adult to adult living-related liver transplantation represents a resource to be used in confronting organ shortage, and is a valuable option for decreasing mortality and drop out from the waiting list.
Blood-brain barrier tight junctions are altered during a 72-h exposure to λ-carrageenan-induced inflammatory pain

In this study, we examined the effect of λ-carrageenan-induced inflammatory pain on the functional and structural properties of the rat blood-brain barrier (BBB) over a 72-h time period. Systemic i...
Response properties of distinct neuronal subsets in hindlimb sensorimotor cerebral cortex of the domestic cat

Abstract Extracellular recordings were obtained from 387 neurons within the hindpaw focus of sensorimotor cerebral cortex of cats anesthetized with chloralose. Histological study showed that the microelectrode penetrations were confined to cytoarchitectonic field 3b. Neurons were classified according to their responsiveness to supramaximal electrical shocks delivered 1/sec to the central footpad of each of the four limbs. About two-thirds of the sample consisted of small-field (sa) neurons, which responded to stimulation of the on-focus contralateral hindpaw but to no other paw; about one-third of the neurons were wide-field (m) neurons, responsive to shocking each of the four paws. In addition, five neurons could be driven by stimulation of either hindpaw but neither forepaw (sb neurons), and one neuron responded to shocking either contralateral paw but not the ipsilateral paws (sc neuron). The sa neurons were found throughout the depth of the cortex, but were concentrated in layers III and IV; the m neurons were distributed deeper in the cortex. Each neuronal subset exhibited behavior which was characteristic of sa neurons and m neurons studied elsewhere in sensorimotor cortex. Following an electrical stimulus to the contralateral hindpaw, the sa neurons discharged earlier than the m neurons; however, the m neurons fired with more spikes per discharge, had lower electrical stimulus thresholds, and were able to respond faithfully to higher iterative stimulus rates. The sa neurons were touch-and/or hair-sensitive, whereas the m neurons were primarily hair- or hair and touch-sensitive. Furthermore, both subsets showed marked variations in mean response latency with depth. The pattern of response latencies of the m neurons, produced by stimulation of each paw, differed considerably from what would be expected from the relative conduction distances involved. Many sa neurons could be inhibited by stimulation of the three off-focus paws, especially the forelimbs. The results indicate that the primary somatosensory (SmI) cortex hindpaw focus of field 3b is more similar in character to the primary motor (MsI) cortex forepaw focus of field 4γ than to the forepaw focus of field 3b. It is argued that the different cytoarchitectonic fields within sensorimotor cortex are not homogeneous with respect to either modality or receptive field size. Rather, distinct neuronal subsets seem to vary in proportion along “continuous” gradients through the different cytoarchitectonic fields.
Inhibition of carbonic anhydrase in the gills of two euryhaline crabs, Callinectes sapidus and Carcinus maenas, by heavy metals.

Two subcellular fractions of gill tissue, cytoplasm and basolateral membranes, from two species of euryhaline decapod crustaceans, Callinectes sapidus and Carcinus maenas, acclimated to low salinity, were isolated via differential centrifugation. Carbonic anhydrase activity from both fractions was titrated against a variety of heavy metals in vitro. The metals Ag+, Cd2+, Cu2+ and Zn+ showed inhibitory action against the enzyme. Ki values for these metals against cytoplasmic CA from C. sapidus were in the range of 0.05–0.5 μM (for Ag+, Cd2+ and Cu2+) and 2–6 μM for Zn+, some of the highest sensitivities reported for CA from an aquatic organism. The Ki values for these same metals were approximately 2–3 orders of magnitude higher for cytoplasmic CA from C. maenas, indicating that there are significant differences in heavy metal sensitivity in branchial CA from the two species, and that C. maenas possesses a metal-resistant CA isoform. It required concentrations of metals in the millimolar range, however, to inhibit CA activity from the membrane fraction of the gill of both species. There were no effects on either mortality or on hemolymph osmotic and ionic concentrations in C. maenas that were exposed to 10 μM Cd or Zn+ at 32‰ salinity and subsequently transferred to 10‰. The presence of a metal-resistant CA isoform in the gills of C. maenas suggests that this species would not be restricted from its normal estuarine environment by heavy metal pollution.
Sperm length variation in House Wrens Troglodytes aedon

It is well documented that sperm size and structure varies considerably among avian species, but we know much less about the extent of intraspecific variation in sperm morphometry and its possible co-variation with somatic traits like body size and condition. Here, we investigate patterns of sperm length variation and co-variation in a population of House Wrens (Troglodytes aedon). Total sperm length showed considerable between-male variation, with high repeatability between seasons indicative of a strong genetic basis for this trait. However, we also detected a seasonal increase in the flagellum:head length ratio, which might indicate phenotypic plasticity or adjustment in the relative size of sperm components. The variation in total sperm length within an ejaculate sample was higher for males sampled very early in the season, which may reflect more heterogeneity in the size of seminiferous tubules when testes are growing. None of the studied sperm morphometry traits correlated significantly with any measures of male body size or physiological condition. Further studies are needed to reveal if the observed individual variation in sperm morphology plays any functional or adaptive role.
Chaotic communication using generalized synchronization

Abstract We present a new technique for the chaotic communication of a signal using the concept of generalized synchronization . We develop a general approach for implementing our technique and illustrate it using a Rossler system driving a Lorenz system. It is demonstrated that the scheme is robust with respect to noise in the communication channel and to small parameter mismatches in the system. Finally, we discuss the advantages of this technique over existing methods and examine ways of improving the scheme.
Analysis of the isolated hyaline layer of sea urchin embryos.

The hyaline layers isolated from Strongylocentrotus purpuratus embryos through the late gastrula stage are more than 95% protein and 2–3% carbohydrate. The layers are high in aspartic acid, threonine, serine, and valine and low in the 3 basic amino acids and methionine. Ultracentrifugation shows a single, hypersharp boundary and a concentration-dependent sedimentation rate. Electrophoresis of dialyzed hyaline layers on acrylamide gels containing urea or SDS yields 1 or 2 bands depending on denaturation and gel conditions. The isolated hyaline layer has the same characteristics as the calcium-precipitable protein obtained from homogenates of unfertilized eggs and behaves similarly on acrylamide gels. During development valine is incorporated into the hyaline layer. Incorporation is blocked by puromycin but not by actinomycin D. When labeled hyaline layers are run on acrylamide gels, the radioactivity is asymmetrically distributed between the 2 bands. Evidence is presented for the hyaline layer consisting of 3 different proteins.
Growth hormone promoted tyrosyl phosphorylation of growth hormone receptors in murine 3T3-F442A fibroblasts and adipocytes

Because many growth factor receptors are ligand-activated tyrosine protein kinases, the possibility that growth hormone (GH), a hormone implicated in human growth, promotes tyrosyl phosphorylation of its receptor was investigated. /sup 125/I-Labeled human GH was covalently cross-linked to receptors in intact 3T3-F442A fibroblasts, a cell line which differentiates into adipocytes in response to GH. The cross-linked cells were solubilized and passed over a column of phosphotyrosyl binding antibody immobilized on protein A-Sepharose. Immunoadsorbed proteins were eluted with a hapten (p-nitrophenyl phosphate) and analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and autoradiography. The eluate from the antibody column contained in M/sub r/ 134,000 /sup 125/I-GH-receptor complex. A similar result was obtained when the adipocyte form of 3T3-F442A cells was used in place of fibroblast form. O-Phosphotyrosine prevented /sup 125/I-GH-receptor complexes from binding to the antibody column, whereas O-phosphoserine and O-phosphothreonine did not. In studies of GH-promoted phosphorylation in 3T3-F442A fibroblasts labeled metabolically with (/sup 32/P)P/sub i/, GH was shown to stimulate formation of a /sup 32/P-labeled protein which bound to immobilized phosphotyrosyl binding antibodies. The molecular weight of 114,000 obtained for this protein is similar to that expected for non-cross-linked GH receptor. These observations provide strong evidence that binding of GHmore » to its receptor stimulates phosphorylation of tyrosyl residues in the GH receptor.« less
Osteoprotegerin is a Better Serum Biomarker of Coronary Artery Calcification than Osteocalcin in Type 2 Diabetes.

Objective: Coronary artery calcification (CAC) is a prominent feature of atherosclerosis and is associated with cardiovascular events. In vitro studies have suggested that osteoprotegerin (OPG) and osteocalcin (OC) exert anticalcification potential in the vessel wall. The objective of this study was to investigate the association of CAC and serum bone biomarkers in persons with type 2 diabetes.Methods: We examined 50 individuals with type 2 diabetes. CAC imaging was performed by multidetector computed tomography. CAC scores ≥10, expressed in Agatston units, were considered abnormal. OC, undercarboxylated OC (ucOC), and OPG levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Results: Abnormal CAC scores were found for 64% of the study cohort. OPG levels were significantly elevated (5.5 ± 2.0 pmol/L vs. 4.2 ± 1.7 pmol/L; P = .026) for those with abnormal CAC scores. No univariate differences were found for OC or ucOC. Logistic regression analyses revealed that an increase in serum OPG level was sign...
Thrombotic stroke associated with the use of porcine factor VIII in a patient with acquired haemophilia

Porcine factor VIII (pFVIII), which is used to control bleeding in patients with congenital or acquired haemophilia who have high-titre neutralizing antibodies to human FVIII, is not known to increase the risk of arterial or venous thrombosis. We have recently encountered a patient with acquired haemophilia who developed a thrombotic left middle cerebral artery distribution stroke while being treated with pFVIII. To our knowledge, this is the first such reported thrombotic event. We speculate that platelet activation induced by pFVIII may have contributed to thrombosis and suggest that pFVIII be used with caution in elderly patients with pre-existing cardiovascular risk factors.
In vitro synthesis and characterisation of full- and half-genome length complementary DNA from avian oncoviruses

RNA TUMOUR viruses carry an RNA-dependent DNA polymerase which can transcribe the viral RNA genome into single-stranded and double-stranded DNA in detergent-disrupted virions1,2. For several years since the discovery of this enzyme, only short DNA fragments of about 100–200 nucleotides long could be produced3. Recently, conditions have been described for the synthesis of possibly full-genome length complementary DNA (cDNA)4–6. The in vitro conditions described, however, were not well characterised and did not seem to be very efficient. We report here an efficient synthesis in vitro of half- and possibly full-genome length cDNA in avian oncoviruses. These two discrete species of cDNA were synthesised in large quantities. Furthermore, some of the half-genome length cDNA were found to form single-stranded circular molecules with a distinct secondary structure.
Compton scatter densitometry with polychromatic sources.

The use of x‐ray tubes as radiation sources for Compton scatter densitometry (CSD) is evaluated theoretically. Bias correction factors (bcf’s) which correct for differential attenuation due to Compton shift and polychromaticity, and differential scattering cross section due to polychromaticity, are defined to facilitate comparison of monochromatic and x‐ray tube CSD devices. Computer modeling indicates that a 100‐kVp x‐ray tube spectrum hardened with 0.64 mm of Pb filtration yields bcf’s 0.008 to 0.34% higher than a 70‐keV monochromatic source for various samples of nylon, and human muscle and bone. This difference is insignificant because multiple scatter errors are typically 1000% higher than errors corrected by bcf’s. The high equivalent activities of x‐ray tubes (10 to 80 TBq) and their small focal spots (1.0 to 2.0 mm) allow the long‐standing CSD problems of marginal statistical precision, long counting times, and low spatial resolution to be overcome.
Aligned virtual coordinates for greedy geometric routing in WSNs

The performance of geographic routing protocols is impacted by physical voids and localisation errors. Traversing voids is carried out by a complimentary algorithm, which requires high overhead and results in lower quality paths. Furthermore, localisation errors lead to inefficient routes or even misrouting of packets. Accordingly, Virtual Coordinate Systems (VCS) were proposed to be an alternative solution that is resilient to localisation errors and naturally traverses physical voids. However, we show that VCS is vulnerable to different forms of anomalies and actually perform worse than physical coordinates. The goal of this paper is to increase the success or Greedy Forwarding (GF) in VCS, to avoid using the expensive complementary algorithm. We identify some of the reasons that cause anomalies in VCS and propose an Aligned Virtual Coordinate System (AVCS) to address them. AVCS aligns the coordinates of nodes by taking into account the coordinates of their neighbours. With AVCS, greedy routing success is significantly improved, approaching perfect delivery for many scenarios. With our approach, and for the first time, we show that greedy routing on VCS out performs that on geographic coordinate systems even in the absence of localisation errors. We compare AVCS against some of the most popular geometric routing protocols both on geographic and VCS and show that AVCS significantly improves performance over the best known solutions.
FACTORIZATION OF AUTOMORPHIC L-FUNCTIONS AND THEIR ZERO STATISTICS

In this paper we define a Rankin–Selberg L-function attached to two Galois invariant automorphic cuspidal representations of GLm(&#x1d538;E) and GLm′(&#x1d538;F) over cyclic Galois extensions E and F of prime degree. This differs from the classical case in that the two extension fields E and F could be completely unrelated to one another, and we exploit the existence of the automorphic induction functor over cyclic extensions (see [J. Arthur and L. Clozel, Simple Algebras, Base Change, and the Advanced Theory of the Trace Formula, Annals of Mathematics Studies, No. 120 (Princeton University Press, Princeton, NJ, 1989)]) to define the L-function. Using a result proved by C. S. Rajan, we prove a prime number theorem for this L-function, and proceed to calculate the n-level correlation function of high nontrivial zeros of a product L(s, π1)L(s, π2)…L(s, πk) where πi is a Galois invariant cuspidal representation of GLni(&#x1d538;Fi) with Fi a cyclic Galois extension of prime degree li for i = 1,…,k, thus generalizing the results of Liu and Ye [Functoriality of automorphic L-functions through their zeros, Sci. China Ser. A51(1) (2008) 1–16].
Participation of Reticulocyte Microsomes in the Incorporation of Iron into Hæmoglobin

IMMATURE rabbit erythrocytes (reticulocytes) have been found in several laboratories to be involved in the formation of haemoglobin. This process was either measured directly by determining the increase in haemoglobin1 or through the incorporation of amino-acids into globin, glycine or iron into haem. Following the kinetic evidence that the microsomes of intact reticulocytes participate in globin formation2, we have attempted to study the steps of this synthesis with cell-free preparations. In this communication, we describe a role of the microsomes in what may be the final step in haemoglobin formation—the insertion of iron.
Assertion training for couples

Abstract Changes in behavioral and self-report measures for 20 couples receiving conjoint assertion training were compared with those for 10 couples receiving minimal treatment. As hypothesized, univariate tests indicated a significant increase in verbal assertion and a significant decrease in verbal aggression for trained couples, relative to controls. The hypothesized decrease in verbal avoidance following treatment was not found. As hypothesized, significant increases in self-reported clarity by self and spouse, and positive interaction by spouse were found, while positive interaction by self tended to increase. In a multivariate analysis, verbal aggression and self-report of spouse's clarity produced no increments in group differentiation over the other variables.
Incidence of acute angle-closure glaucoma after pharmacologic mydriasis.

Purpose To study the incidence of acute angle-closure glaucoma secondary to pupillary dilation and to identify screening methods for detecting angles at risk of occlusion. Methods We studied 5,308 respondents to the Baltimore Eye Survey, a cross-sectional, population-based survey conducted in a multiracial urban community. We measured incidence of acute angle-closure glaucoma after pharmacologic mydriasis and the specificity and sensitivity associated with three screening criteria in identifying those with potentially occludable angles. The screening factors were presence of shallow anterior chamber on penlight examination, history of glaucoma, and blindness. Results Of the 4,870 subjects whose eyes were dilated on screening examination, none developed acute angle-closure glaucoma. However, 38 patients of the 1,770 who were referred for definitive eye examination were judged to have occludable angles on the basis of gonioscopic methods. Of note, subjects aged 70 years and more were three times more likely to have occludable angles than those aged 40 to 69 years (P ≤ .004) In 14 black subjects with occludable angles, six were detected by history of glaucoma and not by shallow anterior chamber configuration; alternatively, in 24 white subjects, 11 (46%) were detected on the basis of shallow anterior chambers (Fisher's exact test, P = .014). When the three screening factors were considered alone and in combination, the most effective combination for predicting a potentially occludable angle was to use shallow anterior chamber on penlight examination and history of glaucoma. These criteria provide 60.5% sensitivity and 93.3% specificity. Conclusion If screening is performed accurately and the results are negative, the risk of dilating a potentially occludable angle was less than one in 333 subjects (negative predictive value, 0.997) in this population.
Immunization of pregnant gilts with PRCV induces lactogenic immunity for protection of nursing piglets from challenge with TGEV

The level of passive protection against transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV) was evaluated by experimentally infecting 12 pregnant gilts with different doses of porcine respiratory coronavirus (PRCV) and challenging their litters at 4 days of age. An overall survival rate of 70% was found for piglets nursing the 12 PRCV-infected gilts, compared to a 16% survival rate for piglets of nine uninfected control gilts. Six of the PRCV-infected gilts had adequate levels of immunity to resist infection with TGEV following the challenge of their litters. These six completely immuned gilts also solidly protected their litters from TGEV as shown by a 96% piglet survival rate through weaning at 3 weeks of age. The results suggest that respiratory infection with PRCV induces a substantial degree of protective lactogenic immunity against TGEV.
Laparoscopic robotic gynecologic surgery

The initial research for the use of robotics in surgery was by military surgeons who sought to develop techniques to perform surgery on wounded soldiers closer to the combat site. This telesurgery allowed the surgeon to be at a remote location and the robot to be placed as close as possible to the injured soldier. Subsequent research focused on robotics as technology that could enable surgeons to perform complex surgical procedures through minimally invasive surgery rather than by laparotomy. Robotic systems consist of three components. The first is the console where the surgeon sits and controls the surgical robots. This console allows the surgeon to visualize and control the operative field. Movements at this console are translated into the movement of surgical instruments at the operative site. The second component is the robot arms that hold the surgical instruments. The third component is the computer interface that translates the mechanical movements of the surgeons’ hands into computer algorithms that direct the robotic instruments. This system was meant to compensate for the deficiencies that a surgeon may encounter with conventional laparoscopic surgery. These include lack of depth perception as a result of working off of a two-dimensional monitor, lack of tactile feedback, and limited degrees of freedom of the instrument tip that impedes the surgeon’s ability to access the pathology precisely. Most gynecologists can perform simple procedures by laparoscopy, such as tubal ligation, ovarian cystectomy, lysis of tubo-ovarian adhesions, and cautery of endometriosis. Studies have clearly shown that laparoscopic surgery allows faster recovery with less postoperative pain. More complex procedures, such as hysterectomy and management of advanced endometriosis, and procedures that require extensive suturing, such as myomectomy, incontinence and prolapse procedures, and tubal microsurgery, are typically still managed by laparotomy.
Effects of simulated acid rain on yield response of two soybean cultivars

Field experiments were conducted for 3 yrs. to determine the effects of simulated acid rain on seed yield of two soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) cultivars, 'Amsoy 71' and 'Williams 82'. Plants were treated biweekly with simulated rain of pH 5.6, 4.6, 4.2, 3.8, 3.4, and 3.0. For Amsoy 71 there was a linear decrease in yield with increasing rainfall acidity for 1 of 3 yrs but no significant effects for the other two. Thus, acid rain appears to reduce the yield of some soybean cultivars slightly, but this effect is not consistent from year to year. Amsoy 71 and Williams 82 soybean treated with the most-acidic rain, pH 3.0, resulted in average yields for the 3 yrs of the study of approximately 3% and 4% lower than the average yields for the other treatments, respectively. However, calculations from the response functions developed have shown that, at current levels of rainfall acidities, the effects on yield are very small. With an increase in rainfall acidity of 50% in Illinois, the predicted yield decrease for Amsoy 71 and Williams 82 soybean would be less than 1%. Similarly, the expected increase in yield of these cultivars would be 1% or less ifmore » acidity in the rainfall were reduced by 50%. While there may be beneficial effects of reduced S and N oxide emissions, these results suggest the resultant lower rainfall acidities are not likely to produce noticeable changes in soybean yields.« less
Resisting pressure from peers to engage in sexual behavior: what communication strategies do early adolescent Latino Girls use?

A content analysis of early adolescent (M=12.02 years) Latino girls' (n=44) responses to open-ended questions imbedded in an electronic survey was conducted to explore strategies girls may use to resist peer pressure with respect to sexual behavior. Analysis yielded 341 codable response units, 74% of which were consistent with the REAL typology (i.e., refuse, explain, avoid, and leave) previously identified in adolescent substance use research. However, strategies reflecting a lack of resistance (11%) and inconsistency with communication competence (e.g., aggression, involving authorities) were also noted (15%). Frequency of particular strategies varied according to offer type, suggesting a variety of strategies may be needed to resist the peer pressure that puts early adolescent girls at risk for engaging in sexual behavior. Findings argue for universality of the REAL typology, building communication competence skills for conflict resolution in dating situations, and including peer resistance strategies in adolescent pregnancy prevention programs.
Systematic approach to cellular manufacturing systems design

Abstract A systematic approach of designing Cellular Manufacturing Systems (CMSs) in three steps is presented in this paper. The first step is the implementation of group technology techniques which provides tools to group similar parts into a family and corresponding machines into a manufacturing cell. The second step is the scheduling of each family parts which generates an efficient method of arranging the facilities of each cell. The next step is developing a flexible system and integrating the production planning and control processes. This can be achieved by using KANBAN and decoupler between manufacturing processes.
Using case-based reasoning to predict the outcome of construction litigation

Due to the nature of the construction industry, disputes arise frequently. Resolving these disputes through the court system is both a time- and cost-consuming process. The outcome of construction litigation is normally affected by a large number of complex and interrelated factors and therefore is very difficult to predict. Methods to predict the outcome of construction litigation are not available today because this decision carries very big risks. In this study, case-based reasoning (CBR) is used to predict the outcome of construction litigation tried in Illinois circuit courts. These circuit court cases are organized in 43 input features and 1 output feature. If CBR systems such as the one developed in this study (prediction rate 83%) are available to the parties before they litigate, legal expenses could be avoided, and considerable time could be saved.
CREBαδ– deficient mice show inhibition and low activity in novel environments without changes in stress reactivity

The ability to respond to unexpected or novel stimuli is critical for survival. Determining that a stimulus is indeed novel requires memory to ascertain its lack of familiarity. As the long-term synaptic changes involved in memory formation require the cAMP response element binding protein (CREB), we examined the extent to which CREB is involved in responses to novel environments. These environments typically trigger an endocrine stress response. Thus, we measured behavioural and stress hormone responses to three novel and one familiar environment in mice with a targeted disruption of the alpha and delta isoforms of the CREB gene (CREB(alphadelta-) deficient mice). We found CREB(alphadelta-) deficient mice to be less active and more inhibited in the elevated plus maze, open field, and light/dark box, without showing differences in anxiety-like behaviour. This inhibition is unique to novel environments because these mice display a normal phenotype in the home cage, a familiar environment. Although CREB(alphadelta-) deficient mice exhibit altered behaviour in novel environments, they show normal reactivity to mild and moderate stress as both basal and stress levels of corticosterone are similar to those of wild-type controls. This is the first report of CREB(alphadelta-) deficient mice to: (i) show altered behaviour, not related to learning and memory-associated behaviours, upon initial exposure to environments and (ii) serve as an animal model that can dissociate locomotor activity from anxiety-like behaviour in novel environments.
Efficient Modeling of Q for 3D Numerical Simulation of Wave Propagation

The effects of Q are currently incorporated into numerical time-domain simulations of wave propagation by using a set of discrete relaxation functions. The behavior of these relaxation functions is controlled by the selection of the weight coefficients and relaxation times. In this article we present an approach to determine these parameters efficiently and accurately. In our approach we first determine two sets of weight coefficients and one set of relaxation times to model the smallest and largest target Q . We then derive an empirical formula to interpolate the weight coefficients for modeling an arbitrary Q that can be a function of frequency. A single set of relaxation times is used for any Q . We have considered two cases: (1) the complex viscoelastic material modulus is computed by directly summing of relaxation functions; (2) the modulus is implicitly represented as the harmonic average of the viscoelastic modulus given by individual relaxation functions. For large Q (>50), both approaches can be applied to coarse-grained system presented by Day and Bradley (2001). However, for lower Q , the second case works better.
Intensity distribution in passive and amplifying random media near localization threshold

We study intensity distribution of the light transmitted through a quasi-one dimensional random medium. Markedly non-Rayleigh distribution P(I) is found to be well fitted by the analytical formula of Ref. [1], with a single parameter g'. We show that in the passive random system g' is uniquely related to the dimensionless conductance g. In absorbing or amplifying random media g' becomes a function of two parameters g and la absorption or lg gain length respectively.
New robust controller design for multivariable control systems

This paper presents a simple reasoned methodology for designing sliding mode controllers (SMCs) for single-input-multi-output (SIMO) control systems. The approach is explicitly based on the assessment of a system total energy, and the realization of a SMC that minimizes that energy. The practical implementation of the proposed approach is exemplified on an inverted pendulum system where the system is two independent sliding surfaces are designed based on the system states.
When data become people: archaeological ethics, reburial, and the past as public heritage

In the United States, consideration of archaeological ethics has been relatively recent and concerned primarily with defining professionalism. By declaring that the past is a public heritage, claiming that archaeologists should be its stewards, and moving toward a positivist scientific approach, American archaeology has alienated its public. Prompted by pressure from Native Americans on the reburial issue, the Society for American Archaeology has attempted to address the problems by proposing an ethics code, but outsiders are likely to see the contradictions between stated principles and practice. These issues are examined from the perspective of the reburial issues, offering the possibility that an ethnocritical archaeology might provide mechanisms that will allow archaeologists to be more truly accountable and, in the long term, better stewards of the past.
Heart rate perception and heart rate control.

Twenty-one subjects look the Autonomic Perception Questionnaire (APQ) and later were given another test of ability to perceive heart activity. The second test involved subjects' tracking of their own heart rates (HR). They were then tested for ability to increase and decrease HR from their resting baseline levels. No significant relationships were found between HR control and APQ score. HR decrease success seemed to depend mainly on respiration differences between rest and decrease periods. The subjects who achieved high scores on the heart tracking test increased HR significantly better than did low scorers. This heart perception vs HR increase relationship did not depend upon respiration rate, respiration amplitude, or baseline HR differences between high and low scorers on the tracking test. A low correlation between APQ and tracking score seemed to indicate that the two perception tests measured different attributes of the subjects.