cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Proposal for a Leaky-Integrate-Fire Spiking Neuron Based on Magnetoelectric Switching of Ferromagnets

The efficiency of the human brain in performing classification tasks has attracted considerable research interest in brain-inspired neuromorphic computing. The spiking neuromorphic architectures attempt to mimic the computations performed in the brain through a dense interconnection of the neurons and synaptic weights. A leaky-integrate-fire (LIF) spiking model is widely used to emulate the dynamics of the biological neurons. In this paper, we propose a spin-based LIF spiking neuron using the magnetoelectric (ME) switching of ferromagnets. The voltage across the ME oxide exhibits a typical leaky-integrate behavior, which in turn switches an underlying ferromagnet. Due to the effect of thermal noise, the ferromagnet exhibits probabilistic switching dynamics, which is reminiscent of the stochasticity exhibited by biological neurons. The energy efficiency of the ME switching mechanism coupled with the intrinsic nonvolatility of ferromagnets results in lower energy consumption, when compared with a CMOS LIF neuron. A device to system-level simulation framework has been developed to investigate the feasibility of the proposed LIF neuron for a hand-written digit recognition application.
Brake and tire particles measured from on-road vehicles: Effects of vehicle mass and braking intensity

Abstract Vehicle exhaust emissions have been decreasing due to stricter regulations and advancements in control strategies. However, non-exhaust emissions from brake and tire wear have not been extensively regulated in the past, and their relative contribution to particulate matter (PM) in urban areas is increasing. We examined the effect of a vehicle's mass and braking intensity on brake and tire particles based on on-road data collected from three different types of vehicles under real-world driving conditions. PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations and particle size distributions were measured near the center and rear of the right front wheel, respectively. During the braking, the highest peaks in brake PM2.5 (520–4280 μg/m3) and PM10 (950–8420 μg/m3) concentrations were observed from the heaviest vehicle, while the lowest peaks in brake PM2.5 (250–2440 μg/m3) and PM10 (430–3890 μg/m3) concentrations were observed from the lightest vehicle. Similarly, the observed peaks in tire PM2.5 (340–4750 μg/m3) and PM10 (810–8290 μg/m3) concentrations of the heaviest vehicle were shown to be the highest among the test vehicles, while the peaks in tire PM2.5 (220–2150 μg/m3) and PM10 (370–3840 μg/m3) concentrations of the lightest vehicle were lower than other vehicles. A statistically significant difference in the peak values of PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations was observed between the heaviest and lightest vehicles for both brake and tire particles. The braking deceleration rate was found to be an important factor in predicting the peaks in PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations during major braking events for all three test vehicles. Brake particles showed a unimodal mass size distribution with a mode diameter of 3–4 μm, while tire particles showed a slightly larger mode diameter of 4–5 μm. The finding of this study provides insight into the effects of driving conditions and vehicle mass on brake and tire emissions.
Somatic growth of Atlantic bluefin tuna Thunnus thynnus under global climate variability: Evidence from over 60 years of daily resolved growth increments with a simulation study

Somatic growth is integral to fishery stock productivity. Under climate variability, omitting growth variability renders fishery management strategies non-optimal. Based on a multidecadal tag-recap...
Immunization Practice in Pediatric Oncology

The need for vaccination before, during and after chemotherapeutic regimens remains an area of controversy due to the lack of evidence-based guidelines. Although multiple consensus statements and guidelines are available in regard to the timing and necessity of (re)vaccination, these recommendations are variable, leading to significant differences in clinical practice. In this chapter we review the literature in regard to immune status prior to chemotherapy initiation, during chemotherapy and data on immune recovery after completion of therapy for pediatric patients with malignancy. This serves as background for the available evidence on immunization practice prior to, during and after chemotherapy completion. Population-based risk assessment is also a key component of (re)vaccination guidelines; therefore, we review the evidence for active immunization in settings of high disease prevalence. Finally, we review passive and active immunization practice after exposure to disease and vaccination of household contacts.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastric Motility Disorders

Disorders of gastric motility result from diseases that interfere with trituration and mixing of food particles with gastric secretions and from diseases that interfere with timely gastric emptying. Motility disorders can be mechanical or functional in origin. Functional motility disorders include infection, inflammation, postgastric dilatation-volvulus, ulcer, and idiopathic disease. Radiographic studies are used to confirm delayed gastric emptying. Treatment consists of dietary management and gastric prokinetic agents.
Mining for the Ephemeral

A new generation of telescopes is helping researchers explore transient energetic processes outside our Galaxy.
Electrochemical Sensors for Field Measurements of Gases and Vapors

Sensors that utilize signals produced by redox of a targeted species (analyte) at an electrode under controlled potential, the conductance changes produced by contact of a chemical species with an electrolyte, or a change in the equilibrium potential of an electrode upon contact with an analyte are being employed in studies of gaseous samples of environmental, biomedical, and industrial interest. Changes in the work function of chemically modified field effect transistors (FET) also is a strategy related to both conductivity and potentiometry. Electrochemical sensors are fundamentally advantageous over other types in that they directly convert information from the chemical to the electrical domain, rather than requiring another transducer. Yet, few have found commercial application. The common types that are employed for field measurements of gaseous samples include devices to quantify oxygen, hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxide, oxides of nitrogen, hydrogen cyanide, hydrogen chloride, and chlorine. The limitation is not sensitivity; by this measure electrochemistry is among the best of the analytical measurement methods. Amperometric sensors accrue selectivity by control of the electrode potential along with control of the process by which the analyte partitions from the gas to the electrolyte. The latter is the primary means by which conductivity and potentiometry systems achieve sensitivity. These methods are not as selective as those in which a chemical reaction is incorporated in the sensor. The most selective electrochemical sensors employ an enzymatic reaction as part of signal production, but these are applicable to only a few analytes, such as alcohols, of importance in the gas phase.
Vitamin B12 Content of Liver and Serum in Malignant Neoplasia

Elevated serum vitamin B12 levels have been observed in metastatic and primary malignant neoplasia of the liver in which the organ was extensively involved. The in­ creased serum B12 has been attributed to necrosis and displacement of the liver cells by the invading t umor, as in damage secondary to virus invasion or carbon tetrachloride injury.! Studies with vitamin B12 labeled with radioactive isotope, how­ ever, demonstrated impaired hepatic uptake of the vitamin in only 2 of the 10 cases of metastatic liver neoplasia, despite very extensive involvement.2 The present study, employing previously described methods of bioassay of fresh liver biopsy material and serum,3, 4 was under­ taken to clarify vitamin B12 relationships in malignant neoplasia of all types, Routine determinations of liver and serum B12 were carried out from .J anuary 1957 to May] 9tH, in all of the cases of neoplasia in which such a study was feasible,
Copper Hydroxyl Nitrate/Graphite Oxide Composite as Superoxidant for the Decomposition/Mineralization of Organophosphate‐Based Chemical Warfare Agent Surrogate

Dimethyl chlorophosphate (DMCP) is a surrogate of G-series organophosphate nerve agents. The destruction of DMCP over copper hydroxyl nitrate (CuON) and copper hydroxyl nitrate/graphite oxide composite (CuONGO) is studied. The extent of interactions between DMCP and the adsorbent surface is monitored by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy in a total attenuated reflectance mode at several predetermined time exposures. Thermal analysis/mass spectrometry is also used to determine the reactive adsorption process. Here, a gradual replacement of NO3− groups by Cl− and/or CO3− indicating the mineralization of DMCP to form CuCl2 and CuCO3 is shown. Even though more DMCP is reactively adsorbed on CuON, its decomposition is faster on CuONGO. Detected NO2, which is formed as an intermediate, causes the conversion of an unevaporated DMCP liquid to H3PO4, as supported by MS results. This mineralization of DMCP happens via an indirect contact with the catalyst. Thus, CuON and CuONGO are considered as highly powerful media for the decontamination of chlorophosphate-based nerve agents.
Multifocal small bowel obstruction in an infant

This is a case report of an acute small bowel obstruction in a 17-month-old girl with no significant past medical history. Computerized tomography (CT) of the abdomen demonstrated complete obstruction at the proximal jejunum as well as perplexing dilation and air-fluid levels within the distal jejunum beyond the initial obstruction. Imaging demonstrated no evidence of malrotation, volvulus, or intussusception, but a clear diagnosis was not evident. Exploratory laparotomy was performed and multiple foreign bodies that appeared to be rubber balls were found within the small bowel. This case study identifies important clinical and radiologic considerations when assessing infants for small bowel obstruction.
“How Do I Know?” The Epistemological Roots of Critical Thinking

AbstractMuseum educators often think about what they want children to take away with them from museum visits. But at least as important is what children bring to these visits. Research in developmental psychology shows that children and adolescents progress through a sequence of ways of understanding knowledge and knowing—understanding that lies at the core of museum experiences. Museum educators should be aware of these different ways of understanding and how they may (or may not) support people's museum experiences. In this article we describe this sequence of understandings and consider ways in which educators can support progression to its most advanced level—one at which inquiry, analysis, evaluation, and debate are valued and regarded as worth the intellectual effort they require.
Correlation of Pre-existing Vascular Pathology With Arteriovenous Graft Outcomes in Hemodialysis Patients

Background Arteriovenous grafts (AVGs) are prone to neointimal hyperplasia leading to AVG failure. We hypothesized that pre-existing pathologic abnormalities of the vessels used to create AVGs (including venous intimal hyperplasia, arterial intimal hyperplasia, arterial medial fibrosis, and arterial calcification) are associated with inferior AVG survival. Study Design Prospective observational study. Setting & Participants Patients with chronic kidney disease undergoing placement of a new AVG at a large medical center who had vascular specimens obtained at the time of surgery (n = 76). Predictor Maximal intimal thickness of the arterial and venous intima, arterial medial fibrosis, and arterial medial calcification. Outcome & Measurements Unassisted primary AVG survival (time to first intervention) and frequency of AVG interventions. Results 55 patients (72%) underwent interventions and 148 graft interventions occurred during 89.9 years of follow-up (1.65 interventions per graft-year). Unassisted primary AVG survival was not associated significantly with arterial intimal thickness (HR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.40-1.27; P = 0.3), venous intimal thickness (HR, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.37-1.10; P = 0.1), severe arterial medial fibrosis (HR, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.32-1.06; P = 0.6), or severe arterial calcification (HR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.37-1.31; P = 0.3). The frequency of AVG interventions per year was associated inversely with arterial intimal thickness (relative risk [RR], 1.99; 95% CI, 1.16-3.42; P 25 μm), venous intimal thickness (RR, 2.11; 95% CI, 1.39-3.20; P 10 μm), arterial medial fibrosis (RR, 3.17; 95% CI, 1.96-5.13; P P = 0.001 for Limitations Single-center study. Study may be underpowered to demonstrate differences in unassisted primary AVG survival. Conclusions Pre-existing vascular pathologic abnormalities in patients with chronic kidney disease may not be associated significantly with unassisted primary AVG survival. However, vascular intimal hyperplasia, arterial medial fibrosis, and arterial calcification may be associated with a decreased frequency of AVG interventions.
Structural characterization of polymeric haptoglobin from goats.

Abstract 1. 1. Polymeric haptoglobin was purified from the serum of Spanish goats (Capra hircus). 2. 2. Subunits were demonstrated and purified for assay by column chromatography. 3. 3. A large polypeptide subunit, comparable to beta from human haptoglobin, was demonstrated. 4. 4. A second, smaller subunit exhibited properties similar to the alpha subunits from human haptoglobin. 5. 5. These data are discussed with respect to the possible evolutionary relationships between goat and human haptoglobins and the genetic mechanisms which generated goat haptoglobin.
Institutions and public investment: an empirical analysis

This paper investigates the effect of institutional quality on the levels, volatility and quality of public investment. Our findings suggest an inverse relationship between public investment levels and institutional quality, supporting the idea that governments use public investment as a vehicle for rent seeking. We also find that lower quality of governance increases the volatility of public investment. Finally, we provide some tentative evidence of a positive relationship between institutional quality and the quality of infrastructure. Policymakers who aim to reduce infrastructure needs through capital spending should take measures to strengthen institutional capacity to manage public investments.
(Re)mapping the nation Sound of Music tourism and national identity in Austria, ca 2000 CE

In this article I investigate how tourist performances are linked with performances of national identity. Focusing on the guided tours in Salzburg, Austria, that promote the shooting locations of the 1965 Hollywood production The Sound of Music, I trace the shifting meaning of this tourist phenomenon in the context of a critical stage of the role of the ‘national’ in general and of Austrian national identity in particular. My article highlights how tourist performances create a ‘contact zone’ that allows for the continuous reinvention of national identity, not only as a place of resistance against global developments but, as the case of Austria shows, as a spatial configuration that is in itself mobile and open to new developments. I conclude by showing how a performative construction of places redefines the meaning of authenticity, such that tourist practices are not the opposite of ‘real’ identity performances but, rather, a blueprint for building stable places in an ever-changing world.
Maternal caffeine consumption during pregnancy and the risk of miscarriage: a prospective cohort study

Objective The objective of the study was to examine whether the risk of miscarriage is associated with caffeine consumption during pregnancy after controlling for pregnancy-related symptoms. Study Design This was a population-based prospective cohort study. Results An increasing dose of daily caffeine intake during pregnancy was associated with an increased risk of miscarriage, compared with no caffeine intake, with an adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) of 1.42 (95% confidence interval 0.93 to 2.15) for caffeine intake of less than 200 mg/day, and aHR of 2.23 (1.34 to 3.69) for intake of 200 or more mg/day, respectively. Nausea or vomiting during pregnancy did not materially affect this observed association, nor did the change in intake pattern of caffeine during pregnancy. In addition, the magnitude of the association appeared to be stronger among women without a history of miscarriage (aHR 2.33, 1.48 to 3.67) than that among women with such a history (aHR 0.81, 0.34 to 1.94). Conclusion Our results demonstrated that high doses of caffeine intake during pregnancy increase the risk of miscarriage, independent of pregnancy-related symptoms.
Unwanted sexual contact on campus: A comparison of women's and men's experiences

While sexual victimization continues to be a problem on college campuses, recent attention has been drawn to understanding gender differences in victimization rates and consequences. To date, these studies remain relatively few in number. The current study surveyed 651 male and female undergraduate students about unwanted sexual experiences during 1 academic year. Comparison of men and women revealed expected differences in incidence rates, with women reporting higher rates of unwanted contact. Within the subsample of reported victims, however, there was gender similarity in terms of the context of unwanted sexual experiences. Analyses also revealed the negative consequences of these experiences for both men and women and low rates of disclosure regardless of gender. Across the full sample of students surveyed, there were interesting gender differences in knowledge of campus support services, with women more likely to have attended a prevention program and to have indicated greater knowledge of rape crisis services.
CO2 Band Intensities in the 9.4 and 10.4 µm Regions

The intensities, widths and positions of lines of 19 CO2 bands in the region 790 - 1110 cm-1 have been determined by the method of whole-band, nonlinear, least-squares analysis from a Fourier Transform spectrum of CO2 recorded at room temperature, a pressure of 177 torr and a path length of 474 m. The resolution is about 0.07 cm-1.
Myofibril organisation and mitosis in cultured cardiac muscle cells.

Isolated cardiac muscle cells grown in vitro have been studied with respect to their ability to contract spontaneously and maintain myofibrillar organisation during division. These cells do not round up to undergo mitosis; division is achieved by the cell pinching itself in two in a selected area. This adaptation minimises disturbance to cell attachment sites and to myofibrils running between them. We correlated this with the persistence of beating during division and the maintenance of myofibrils with intact Z bands, even in close proximity to the nucleus, through division in many cells. Cessation of beating and disorganisation of myofibrils are therefore not prerequisites for division of cardiac muscle cells, as reported previously.
Powerful and Ancient Embrace of Four-Domain Voltage-Gated Channels with Calmodulin

A most ubiquitous Ca2+-sensing molecule throughout biology---calmodulin (CaM)---serves as a virtual subunit of numerous ion channels, conferring vital Ca2+-dependent modulation of channel opening. Nowhere is this Ca2+ modulation more prevalent than in voltage-gated Ca2+ channels, where CaM dynamically switches among differing interactions with a proximal carboxyl tail region (CI domain), thus translating Ca2+ fluctuations into profound adjustments in channel opening. Using new approaches, we here uncover striking further actions of CaM. Using chemical-biological tools to step increase CaM concentration, we reveal that the binding of Ca2+-free CaM (apoCaM) to channels itself imparts a striking boost in baseline open probability, with ramifications for Ca2+ homeostasis. Adopting a synthetic-biological approach of radical reductionism, we demonstrate that localized CaM predominates in enabling channel expression: even when the entire carboxy tail of a channel is excised, robust Ca2+ currents are nonetheless sustained if CaM is tethered to these ‘reduced’ channels. Finally, using photouncaging to produce measured step increases of Ca2+, we now recognize that the CaM/CI regulatory module extends to the superfamily of Na channels, another key member of four-domain channels. Though Ca2+ and Na channels have generally been considered distinct, their carboxy tails exhibit tantalizing homology in the region spanning the CI domain. However, a decade of Na channel research has revealed only subtle and variable Ca2+ effects, with divergent mechanisms. Photouncaging of Ca2+ demonstrates here that the dissimilarities in Na channels are only apparent, and that function and mechanism are fundamentally conserved to an astonishing degree across Ca2+ and Na channels. Given the common heritage of these channels dating to the early days of eukaryotes, the present results link modern-day CI elements to a legitimately primeval modulatory design, and cast CaM as a partner in ion-channel regulation throughout much of living history.
Assignment of 13C and 1H cmemical shifts of 1,2-disubstituted adamantanes by one-and two-dimensional NMR spectroscopy

Abstract 13C and 1H NMR chemical shifts of twenty-nine 1,2-disubstituted adamantanes were assigned by means of 1D and 2D NMR techniques, particularly 1H- 13C correlations via long-range couplings using the INAPT pulse sequence. Additivity of 13C substituent effects in these adamantanes was examined. Intramolecular interactions between the neighboring substituents were shown to cause considerable nonadditivity effects. In particular, 13C signals for C-5 and C-7 in many of the compounds were found to be opposite to the assignment of C-5 and C-7 in 2-monosubstituted adamantanes.
High prevalence and two dominant host-specific genotypes of Coxiella burnetii in U.S. milk

Coxiella burnetii causes Q fever in humans and Coxiellosis in animals; symptoms range from general malaise to fever, pneumonia, endocarditis and death. Livestock are a significant source of human infection as they shed C. burnetii cells in birth tissues, milk, urine and feces. Although prevalence of C. burnetii is high, few Q fever cases are reported in the U.S. and we have a limited understanding of their connectedness due to difficulties in genotyping. Here, we develop canonical SNP genotyping assays to evaluate spatial and temporal relationships among C. burnetii environmental samples and compare them across studies. Given the genotypic diversity of historical collections, we hypothesized that the current enzootic of Coxiellosis is caused by multiple circulating genotypes. We collected A) 23 milk samples from a single bovine herd, B) 134 commercial bovine and caprine milk samples from across the U.S., and C) 400 bovine and caprine samples from six milk processing plants over three years. We detected C. burnetii DNA in 96% of samples with no variance over time. We genotyped 88.5% of positive samples; bovine milk contained only a single genotype (ST20) and caprine milk was dominated by a second type (mostly ST8). The high prevalence and lack of genotypic diversity is consistent with a model of rapid spread and persistence. The segregation of genotypes between host species is indicative of species-specific adaptations or dissemination barriers and may offer insights into the relative lack of human cases and characterizing genotypes.
Analysis of lurgi gasification of two U.S. Coals

Abstract A mathematical model of moving bed coal gasification is used to determine the performance of two U.S. coals in a pressurized Lurgi gasifier. Air and oxygen blasts are considered. Optimum feed conditions are highly dependent on coal type and oxidant, with high activity Wyoming coal requiring less oxygen and less steam to gasify a given amount of fixed carbon than low activity Illinois coal. The different steam to oxygen ratios for the two coals result in markedly different H 2 /CO ratios in the product gas. Optimum operation requires that the combustion zone be maintained at a given distance above the ash grate. Calculations in the neighborhood of the optimum define process variables that can be used to infer deviations from optimum conditions.
Relief period optimization under budget constraints

Abstract Increased competition and the rapidly changing telecommunications environment have made it necessary to invest in new technologies and services. Additionally, there are pressures not to borrow heavily for these investments. When cash is tight and budgets must be constrained, the costs of placing capacity to cover forecast growth in the most economical manner may exceed the available capital budget. This paper investigates optimal capacity placement under a given budget, and presents a solution method to find optimal technology selection and project sizing. The problem is formulated as a nonlinear integer programming problem, typically with many hundreds of integer variables and many hundreds of continuous variables. A solution method is developed that exploits the structure of the problem, and reduces it to a two-dimensional implicit search over two multipliers: one that governs technology selection and one that governs project sizing.
Performance of US citizen Caribbean medical school graduates on the American Board of internal medicine certifying examinations, 1984 to 1987

Our purpose was to compare the certifying examination performance of graduates of Caribbean medical institutions with graduates of other medical institutions. Specifically, the performance of US and Canadian medical school graduates, non‐US citizen foreign medical school graduates, US citizen non‐Caribbean foreign medical school graduates, and US citizen Caribbean medical school graduates was compared for the 1984 to 1987 certifying examinations of the American Board of Internal Medicine. In addition, program directors’ ratings of candidates’ clinical competence were compared for these four groups. Results indicated that US citizen Caribbean medical school graduates did not perform as well as any of the other groups on the examination. This is consistent with the findings of other studies of Caribbean medical students, conducted earlier in their training. The current study expands on that work by indicating that deficits in medical knowledge, apparent in undergraduate examinations, are also evident at the...
Current Views on the Roles of Th1 and Th17 Cells in Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) and its animal model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), are autoimmune demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system (CNS). Interferon-γ-producing Th1 and interleukin-17-producing Th17 CD4+ T helper (Th) cells mediate disease pathogenesis in EAE and likely in MS as well. However, the relative contribution of each Th subset to autoimmune processes in the CNS remains unclear. Emerging data suggest that both Th1 and Th17 cells contribute to CNS autoimmunity, albeit through different mechanisms. A better understanding of the roles that Th1 and Th17 cells play in autoimmune inflammation will be helpful in developing new therapeutic approaches. In this review, we discuss recent findings on the roles of Th1 and Th17 cells in the pathogenesis of EAE.
Sample design, sample augmentation, and estimation for Wave 2 of the NSHAP.

Objectives. The sample for the second wave (2010) of National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project (NSHAP) was designed to increase the scientific value of the Wave 1 (2005) data set by revisiting sample members 5 years after their initial interviews and augmenting this sample where possible. Method. There were 2 important innovations. First, the scope of the study was expanded by collecting data from coresident spouses or romantic partners. Second, to maximize the representativeness of the Wave 2 data, nonrespondents from Wave 1 were again approached for interview in the Wave 2 sample. Results. The overall unconditional response rate for the Wave 2 panel was 74%; the conditional response rate of Wave 1 respondents was 89%; the conditional response rate of partners was 84%; and the conversion rate for Wave 1 nonre spondents was 26%. Discussion. The inclusion of coresident partners enhanced the study by allowing the examination of how intimate, household relationships are related to health trajectories and by augmenting the size of the NSHAP sample size for this and future waves. The uncommon strategy of returning to Wave 1 nonrespondents reduced potential bias by ensuring that to the extent possible the whole of the original sample forms the basis for the field effort. NSHAP Wave 2 achieved its field objectives of consolidating the panel, recruiting their resident spouses or romantic partners, and converting a significant proportion of Wave 1 nonrespondents.
Attractors for lattice Fitzhugh-Nagumo systems

Abstract The FitzHugh–Nagumo system on infinite lattices is studied. By means of “tail ends” estimates on solutions, it is proved that the system is asymptotically compact in a weighted l 2 space and has a compact global attractor containing traveling wave solutions. The singular limiting behavior of global attractors is also investigated as a singular parameter ϵ → 0 . It is shown that the limiting system for ϵ = 0 has no global attractor, but all the global attractors for perturbed systems are contained in a common compact subset of the phase space when ϵ is positive but small. Further, a compact local attractor for the limiting system is constructed, and the upper semicontinuity of global attractors is established when ϵ → 0 .
Variability of the recent climate of eastern Africa

The primary objective of this study is to investigate the recent variability of the eastern African climate. The region of interest is also known as the Greater Horn of Africa (GHA), and comprises the countries of Burundi, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, Sudan, Uganda, and Tanzania. The analysis was based primarily on the construction of empirical orthogonal functions (EOFs) of gauge rainfall data and on CPC Merged Analysis of Precipitation (CMAP) data, derived from a combination of rain-gauge observations and satellite estimates. The investigation is based on the period 1961–2001 for the ‘short rains’ season of eastern Africa of October through to December. The EOF analysis was supplemented by projection of National Centers for Environmental Prediction wind data onto the rainfall eigenmodes to understand the rainfall–circulation relationships. Furthermore, correlation and composite analyses have been performed with the Climatic Research Unit globally averaged surface-temperature time series to explore the potential relationship between the climate of eastern Africa and global warming. The most dominant mode of variability (EOF1) based on CMAP data over eastern Africa corresponds to El Nino–southern oscillation (ENSO) climate variability. It is associated with above-normal rainfall amounts during the short rains throughout the entire region, except for Sudan. The corresponding anomalous low-level circulation is dominated by easterly inflow from the Indian Ocean, and to a lesser extent the Congo tropical rain forest, into the positive rainfall anomaly region that extends across most of eastern Africa. The easterly inflow into eastern Africa is part of diffluent outflow from the maritime continent during the warm ENSO events. The second eastern African EOF (trend mode) is associated with decadal variability. In distinct contrast from the ENSO mode pattern, the trend mode is characterized by positive rainfall anomalies over the northern sector of eastern Africa and opposite conditions over the southern sector. This rainfall trend mode eluded detection in previous studies that did not include recent decades of data, because the signal was still relatively weak. The wind projection onto this mode indicates that the primary flow that feeds the positive anomaly region over the northern part of eastern Africa emanates primarily from the rainfall-deficient southern region of eastern Africa and Sudan. Although we do not assign attribution of the trend mode to global warming (in part because of the relatively short period of analysis), the evidence, based on our results and previous studies, strongly suggests a potential connection. Copyright © 2004 Royal Meteorological Society.
The performance of non-native speakers of English on TOEFL and verbal aptitude tests

This study examined the performance of two groups of non-native English speakers on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and an appropriate verbal aptitude test. One group of graduate applicants took both TOEFL and the verbal section of the Aptitude Test of the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE). Another group of undergraduate applicants took TOEFL, the verbal section of the College Board Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), and the Test of Standard Written English (TSWE). Data are presented showing how native and non-native speakers compare on each set of tests. Information is also provided to aid in interpreting test results for non-native speakers who have taken both types of test. The appendix to the report summarizes item reviews, by specialists in English as a Second Language, which suggest future directions for TOEFL test development.
Arabidopsis LATERAL ORGAN BOUNDARIES negatively regulates brassinosteroid accumulation to limit growth in organ boundaries

Leaves and flowers begin life as outgrowths from the edges of shoot apical meristems. Stem cell divisions in the meristem center replenish cells that are incorporated into organ primordia at the meristem periphery and leave the meristem. Organ boundaries, regions of limited growth that separate forming organs from the meristem, serve to isolate these two domains and are critical for coordination of organogenesis and meristem maintenance. Boundary formation and maintenance are poorly understood processes, despite the identification of a number of boundary-specific transcription factors. Here we provide genetic and biochemical evidence that the Arabidopsis thaliana transcription factor LATERAL ORGAN BOUNDARIES (LOB) negatively regulates accumulation of the plant steroid hormone brassinosteroid (BR) in organ boundaries. We found that ectopic expression of LOB results in reduced BR responses. We identified BAS1, which encodes a BR-inactivating enzyme, as a direct target of LOB transcriptional activation. Loss-of-function lob mutants exhibit organ fusions, and this phenotype is suppressed by expression of BAS1 under the LOB promoter, indicating that BR hyperaccumulation contributes to the lob mutant phenotype. In addition, LOB expression is BR regulated; therefore, LOB and BR form a feedback loop to modulate local BR accumulation in organ boundaries to limit growth in the boundary domain.
Loss of Calcium Responsiveness in Cultured Bovine Parathyroid Cells Is Associated with Decreased Calcium Receptor Expression

Suppression of PTH secretion by extracellular calcium is mediated by a plasma membrane calcium receptor (CaR). However, primary cultures of bovine parathyroid cells are known to quickly lose their responsiveness to extracellular calcium. The present study was designed to determine if the loss of calcium responsiveness is due to changes in CaR expression. In primary monolayer cultures of parathyroid cells, calcium-mediated suppression of PTH was still evident after 24 hours in culture but was completely absent after 6 days. This was preceded by a 75% drop in CaR mRNA content within 24 hours. CaR mRNA levels remained low for the 6-day culture. Earlier time points, examined in parathyroid cell suspensions, showed a 70% drop in CaR mRNA by 4 hours after collagenase-dispersion of the glands and an 85% drop after 24 hours. The decreased expression of CaR mRNA was not influenced by altering medium serum, calcium, or 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. Our results indicate that the loss of responsiveness of cultured parathyroid cells to calcium is due to decreased CaR mRNA and, presumably, CaR protein expression.
Three‐dimensional study of Mars upper thermosphere/ionosphere and hot oxygen corona: 2. Solar cycle, seasonal variations, and evolution over history

[1] The global dynamics of the flow of energetic particles through the Martian upper atmosphere is studied for different cases reflecting variations in solar cycle, seasons, and epochs over history. In this study, the combination of the new 3-D Direct Simulation Monte Carlo kinetic model and the modern 3-D Mars Thermosphere General Circulation Model is employed to describe self-consistently the Martian upper atmosphere (i.e., the thermosphere/ionosphere and the exosphere). The variations in the Martian upper atmosphere over long-term (seasons and solar cycle) and evolutionary (Martian history) time scales are presented and discussed using the equinox solar low case extensively described in the work of Valeille et al. (2009c) as reference throughout. These characteristic conditions lead to significant variations in the thermosphere/ionosphere temperatures, dynamical heating, winds, and ion/neutral density distributions, which, in turn, affect the exosphere general structure, the hot corona shape, and the escape rate and have important implications for the study of the ion loss, atmospheric sputtering, and interaction with the solar wind in general. Calculations for present conditions are performed for three characteristic seasons (aphelion, equinox, and perihelion), while solar activity is either fixed to low or high conditions. Calculations for past conditions are related to a solar EUV flux enhancement of 1, 3, and 6 times the present values. Spatial-, seasonal-, solar cycle–, and evolutionary-driven variations, although exhibiting very different time scales, are all shown to exert an influence of the same order. Models of Mars upper atmosphere should address them accordingly.
Experimental Limit on the Cosmic Diffuse Ultrahigh Energy Neutrino Flux

We report results from 120 h of live time with the Goldstone lunar ultrahigh energy neutrino experiment (GLUE). The experiment searches for $\ensuremath{\le}10\text{ }\mathrm{n}\mathrm{s}$ microwave pulses from the lunar regolith, appearing in coincidence at two large radio telescopes separated by 22 km and linked by optical fiber. Such pulses would arise from subsurface electromagnetic cascades induced by interactions of $\ensuremath{\ge}100\text{ }\mathrm{E}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{V}$ ($1\text{ }\mathrm{E}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{V}={10}^{18}\text{ }\mathrm{e}\mathrm{V}$ neutrinos in the lunar regolith. No candidates are yet seen, and the implied limits constrain several current models for ultrahigh energy neutrino fluxes.
Effect of calcium ions on the organization of iota-carrageenan helices: an X-ray investigation.

Abstract X-ray fiber diffraction analysis confirms that calcium ι-carrageenan forms a threefold, right-handed, half-staggered, parallel, double helix of pitch 26.42 A stabilized by interchain hydrogen bonds. According to the detailed structural results, three helices are packed in a trigonal unit cell ( a =23.61 and c =13.21 A). Strong interactions between the sulfate groups of neighboring helices, mediated by calcium ions and water molecules, are responsible for stabilizing the three-dimensional structure.
The physiologic effects of nonionic contrast media on the heart.

Objectives This article briefly reviews the potential physiologic effects of ionic versus nonionic contrast media on the myocardium. Methods Selection criteria for articles included the use of quantitative measurement techniques, controlled contrast-media doses, and a focus on cardiac mechanical or electrical function. Two important reviews also were used. Most of the data considered represent the results of animal experiments. Results/conclusions Nonionic monomer contrast media are associated with markedly less physiologic effect on the heart, compared with ionic agents. For instance, cardiac depression is minimal, and the incidence of arrhythmia and fibrillation is reduced with nonionic agents during coronary arteriography. Nonionic dimer agents with electrolyte supplementation produce even less mechanical and electrical disturbances.
The linear-quadratic model and fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy.

Abstract Purpose To determine the dose per fraction that could be used when gamma knife or linear accelerator–based stereotactic treatments are delivered in 2 or more fractions. Methods and materials The linear-quadratic (LQ) model was used to calculate the dose per fraction for a multiple-fraction regimen which is biologically equivalent to a given single-fraction treatment. The results are summarized in lookup tables. Results and conclusions The tables can be used by practicing clinicians as a guide in planning fractionated treatment. For the large doses used in typical stereotactic treatments and for small fraction numbers, the model is not very sensitive to the value of the α/β ratio in the LQ model. A simple rule of thumb is found that for two-fraction and three-fraction treatments the dose per fraction is roughly two-thirds and one-half of the single-fraction treatment dose, respectively.
Analysis of the consistency of intraurethral prostaglandin E1 (MUSE) during at-home use

Abstract Objectives. To determine the consistency of a successful response to intraurethral prostaglandin E 1 (MUSE), an effective treatment for a proportion of patients with erectile dysfunction, during at-home use in men who had a successful response in the office, to define the factors that correlated with the consistency of the response, and to determine whether patients continued long-term use. Methods. The study group consisted of men with documented erectile dysfunction who had a successful response (grade 3 or 4 erection) to MUSE during an initial in-office dose. All enrollees completed a home diary assessing the treatment success during at least five medication administrations. Factors such as patient age, vascular risk factor status, and degree of in-office response were prospectively evaluated as correlates of response consistency. Finally, patient follow-up was conducted in an attempt to define how many patients were continuing to use this medication as a long-term treatment modality. Results. Two hundred twelve patients underwent screening and 72 (34%) patients had in-office success. The overall per patient at-home consistency rate was 51%. None of the aforementioned factors correlated with the consistency of the response. At a mean of 9 months after beginning treatment, only 31% of the in-office responders were continuing to use MUSE. Conclusions. Although MUSE is an appropriate and safe treatment for many patients with erectile dysfunction, the lack of consistency is a significant consideration. Clinicians should pay close attention to patient education in an effort to promote realistic expectations for MUSE therapy. Furthermore, the lack of consistency may significantly lower the patient’s interest in continuing this treatment long term.
Controlled assembly of bifunctional chimeric protein cages and composition analysis using noncovalent mass spectrometry.

The chimeric protein cages having dual functionalities inside and outside of LiDps are constructed by reassembling dissociated subunits with desired ratios and their compositions are monitored by noncovalent mass spectrometry at the molecular level. Binomial distribution analysis of mass spectra reveals that dissociated subunits reassemble randomly into a dodecameric cage.
Metabolic pathway engineering for enhanced biohydrogen production

Hydrogen is an ideal, clean, and potentially sustainable energy carrier for the future due to its abundance and non-polluting nature. Numerous bacteria, cyanobacteria, and algae are capable of producing hydrogen from water, solar energy, and a variety of organic substrates. Improvement of these diverse biochemical pathways is needed in order to make biohydrogen competitive with current production methods. This review summarizes some of the main biological pathways that produce hydrogen and their limiting factors. It also describes how metabolic engineering strategies are being used to overcome these limitations, increase yields, and broaden substrate utilization.
The cryptococcal antigen lateral flow assay: A point-of-care diagnostic at an opportune time

AbstractCryptococcal meningitis is a devastating HIV-related opportunistic infection, affecting nearly 1 million individuals and causing over 500 000 deaths each year. The burden of disease is greatest in sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia, where cryptococcal disease is the most common cause of meningitis. Rapid, accurate and affordable diagnosis of cryptococcal disease has been lacking in many of the most heavily affected areas. Here, we review a point-of-care assay for cryptococcal disease, the dipstick-formatted cryptococcal antigen lateral flow assay (LFA) (IMMY, Norman, OK). In comparison to culture, the assay is 99.5% sensitive and 98% specific. In comparison to other commercially available tests for cryptococcal antigen, the LFA has equal or superior sensitivity and specificity in CSF, plasma and serum samples. We discuss potential applications for the use of the assay in resource-limited settings, including what is likely to be an important role of the LFA in screening for early cryptococcal in...
Reserpine and the Partial Reinforcement Effect in the Fish Tilapia H. Macrocephala

A strong partial reinforcement effect was produced in 20 fish trained to a free operant striking response by injection of reserpine before extinction of the response. This was interpreted as a result of inhibition of responding during extinction of 20 Ss trained on a consistent schedule of reinforcement rather than facilitation of responding in Ss trained on a .4 variable ratio schedule of reinforcement.
Angiopoietin like protein 4 expression is decreased in activated macrophages

Angiopoietin like protein 4 (ANGPTL4) inhibits lipoprotein lipase (LPL) activity. Previous studies have shown that Toll-like Receptor (TLR) activation increases serum levels of ANGPTL4 and expression of ANGPTL4 in liver, heart, muscle, and adipose tissue in mice. ANGPTL4 is expressed in macrophages and is induced by inflammatory saturated fatty acids. The absence of ANGPTL4 leads to the increased uptake of pro-inflammatory saturated fatty acids by macrophages in the mesentery lymph nodes due to the failure of ANGPTL4 to inhibit LPL activity, resulting in peritonitis, intestinal fibrosis, weight loss, and death. Here we determined the effect of TLR activation on the expression of macrophage ANGPTL4. LPS treatment resulted in a 70% decrease in ANGPTL4 expression in mouse spleen, a tissue enriched in macrophages. In mouse peritoneal macrophages, LPS treatment also markedly decreased ANGPTL4 expression. In RAW cells, a macrophage cell line, LPS, zymosan, poly I:C, and imiquimod all inhibited ANGPTL4 expression. In contrast, neither TNF, IL-1, nor IL-6 altered ANGPTL4 expression. Finally, in cholesterol loaded macrophages, LPS treatment still decreased ANGPTL4 expression. Thus, while in most tissues ANGPTL4 expression is stimulated by inflammatory stimuli, in macrophages TLR activators inhibit ANGPTL4 expression, which could lead to a variety of down-stream effects important in host defense and wound repair.