cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Seasonal variations of stratospheric age spectra in the Goddard Earth Observing System Chemistry Climate Model (GEOSCCM)

[1] The stratospheric age spectrum is the probability distribution function of the transit times since a stratospheric air parcel had last contact with a tropospheric boundary region. Previous age spectrum studies have focused on its annual mean properties. Knowledge of the age spectrum's seasonal variability is very limited. In this study, we investigate the seasonal variations of the stratospheric age spectra using the pulse tracer method in the Goddard Earth Observing System Chemistry Climate Model (GEOSCCM). The relationships between the age spectrum and the boundary impulse response (BIR) are reviewed, and a simplified method to reconstruct seasonally varying age spectra is introduced. The age spectra in GEOSCCM have strong seasonal cycles, especially in the lowermost and lower stratosphere and in the subtropical overworld. These changes reflect the seasonal evolution of the Brewer-Dobson circulation, isentropic mixing, and transport barriers. We also investigate the seasonal and interannual variations of the BIRs. Our results clearly show that computing an ensemble of seasonally dependent BIRs is necessary in order to capture the seasonal and annual mean properties of the stratospheric age spectrum.
Nuclear Coactivator-62 kDa/Ski-interacting Protein Is a Nuclear Matrix-associated Coactivator That May Couple Vitamin D Receptor-mediated Transcription and RNA Splicing *

Nuclear coactivator-62 kDa/Ski-interacting protein (NCoA62/SKIP) is a putative vitamin D receptor (VDR) and nuclear receptor coactivator protein that is unrelated to other VDR coactivators such as those in the steroid receptor coactivator (SRC) family. The mechanism through which NCoA62/SKIP functions in VDR-activated transcription is unknown. In the present study, we identified a nuclear localization sequence in the COOH terminus of NCoA62/SKIP and showed that NCoA62/SKIP was targeted to nuclear matrix subdomains. Chromatin immunoprecipitation studies revealed that endogenous NCoA62/SKIP associated in a 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3-dependent manner with VDR target genes in ROS17/2.8 osteosarcoma cells. A cyclic pattern of promoter occupancy by VDR, SRC-1, and NCoA62/SKIP was observed, with NCoA62/SKIP entering these promoter complexes after SRC-1. These studies provide strong support for the proposed role of NCoA62/SKIP as a VDR transcriptional coactivator, and they indicate that key mechanistic differences probably exist between NCoA62/SKIP and SRC coactivators. To explore potential mechanisms, NCoA62/SKIP-interacting proteins were purified from HeLa cell nuclear extracts and identified by mass spectrometry. The identified proteins represent components of the spliceosome as well as other nuclear matrix-associated proteins. Here, we show that a dominant negative inhibitor of NCoA62/SKIP (dnNCoA62/SKIP) interfered with appropriate splicing of transcripts derived from 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3-induced expression of a growth hormone minigene cassette. Taken together, these data show that NCoA62/SKIP has properties that are consistent with those of nuclear receptor coactivators and with RNA spliceosome components, thus suggesting a potential role for NCoA62/SKIP in coupling VDR-mediated transcription to RNA splicing.
Identification of an essential backbone amide bond in the folding and stability of a multimeric enzyme

Here we utilize a total chemical synthesis strategy and a mass spectrometry-based, combinatorial chemistry approach to identify key molecular interactions that contribute to the folding and stability of a model multimeric enzyme, 4-oxalocrotonate tautomerase (4OT). 4OT is a 41 kDa bacterial enzyme composed of six identical 62 amino acid subunits. A total of 16 different 4OT analogues containing various natural and unnatural N-terminal modifications were prepared by total chemical synthesis and then characterized by catalytic activity, size exclusion chromatography (SEC), and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy. The results of our mutational studies indicate that backbone−backbone hydrogen-bonding interactions involving the amide bond between Pro1 and Ile2 in 4OT's 62 amino acid polypeptide chain play an important role in specifying the conformation of this enzyme's native folded state. These results provide the first evidence that backbone−backbone hydrogen-bonding interactions can play such a major role...
Induced pluripotent stem cells: reprogrammed without a trace.

“...technological advances driving the science of induced pluripotency will be increasingly essential for realizing the opportunities of patient-specific, cell-based treatments, thereby translating the discoveries of today into the practice of tomorrow.” Timothy J Nelson Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA Andre Terzic Author for correspondence: Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA Tel.: +1 507 284 5514; Fax: +1 507 266 9936; E-mail: terzic.andre@ mayo.edu Induced pluripotent stem cells: reprogrammed without a trace
Metallopeptide based mimics with substituted histidines approximate a key hydrogen bonding network in the metalloenzyme nickel superoxide dismutase.

Nickel superoxide dismutase (NiSOD) is a recently discovered superoxide dismutase that utilizes the NiIII/NiII couple to facilitate the disproportionation of O2•− into H2O2 and O2. A key structural component of NiSOD is an elongated axial His-imidazole NiIII bond (2.3−2.6 A) that is the result of a H-bonding network between His(1), Glu(17), and Arg(47). Herein we utilize metallopeptide based mimics of NiSOD with His(1) e-nitrogen substituted imidazoles to approximate the electronic influence of this H-bonding network ({NiIII/II(SODM1−Im−X)} X = Me, H, DNP, and Tos; SODM1−Im−X = H′CDLPCGVYDPA where H′ is an N-substituted His). All reduced {NiII(SODM1−Im−X)} are similar to one another as assessed by electronic absorption spectroscopy, circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy, and Ni K-edge x-ray absorption (XAS). This indicates that the change in His(1) is having little influence on the square-planar NiIIN2S2 center. In contrast, changes to the axial His(1) ligand impart differential spectroscopic properties on...
Assessment of the tracheal ring bioassay for detection of the cystic fibrosis serum factor.

Abstract We have examined the effects of serum from cystic fibrosis patients, healthy human volunteers and from guinea pigs on ciliary activity of guinea pig tracheal ring explants after 48 hours in culture. Sera from 9 out of 10 cystic fibrosis patients produced ciliostasis. This is a significantly greater percentage than the 7 out of 21 serum samples from healthy volunteers that produced ciliostasis. Ninety-two percent of the explants in guinea pig serum had unaltered ciliary activity, illustrating the importance of intrinsic control in the bioassay design. These result suggest that the guinea pig tracheal ring bioassay may be of value as a means of identifying the presence of the ciliotoxic factor in cystic fibrosis serum for research use but is a poor discriminator for diagnostic purposes. Modification such as rinsing the tracheal mucosa with sterile medium and a new chamber for the microscopic observation of the tissue have simplified the assay.
Tropical Cyclone Movement and Surrounding Flow Relationships

Abstract This paper presents results of a comprehensive study of the relationship between the movement of tropical cyclones and the large-scale circulation which surrounds them. Cyclones have been stratified by direction and speed of movement, latitude, intensity change and size (as determined by the radius of the outermost closed surface isobar) in three ocean basins: the northwest Pacific, the west Atlantic and the Australian-South Pacific region. Twenty-one different stratifications are available in the northwest Pacific, 13 in the west Atlantic and 6 in the Australian-South Pacific area. Cyclone movement and surrounding flow relationships were studied at different pressure levels and a variety of radii. Pressure-weighted layer-averages were also analyzed in search of such relationships. Results show an important relationship between surrounding large-scale flow and tropical cyclone movement. For all stratifications, the winds in the mid-troposphere (500–700 mb) at 5–7° latitude radius from the cyclone...
Sexual dimorphisms in a neuromuscular system regulating courtship in the green anole lizard: effects of season and androgen treatment.

During the breeding season, male green anoles (Anolis carolinensis) court females by ex- tending a red throat fan called a dewlap. Motoneurons controlling this sexually dimorphic behavior are located in two portions of the brain stem: (a) the vagal portion of nucleus ambiguus (AmbX), and (b) the region con- taining the glossopharyngeal portion of nucleus am- biguus and the ventral motor nucleus of the facial nerve (AmbIX/VIImv). These motoneurons project to the ceratohyoideus muscle via the ramus pharyngo-laryn- geus IX1X. To investigate the effects of season on and androgen regulation of neural and peripheral structures controlling dewlap extension, two experiments were con- ducted: (a) During the breeding and nonbreeding sea- sons, motoneuron number, soma size, and nucleus size were investigated in intact males and females and in castrated males treated with a testosterone propionate (TP) or a blank Silastic capsule. (b) Cross-sectional area of the nerve and muscle fiber size, number, and density were investigated in the four treatment groups during the breeding season only. No significant differences were found in motoneuron number. In the breeding season, subtle male-biased sex differences existed in both AmbX and AmbIX/VIImv soma size. Nerve cross-sectional area and muscle fiber size and number were substantially larger in males than females. Muscle fiber density was higher in females. No consistent effects due to season or androgen treatment were detected, although character- istics of motoneurons were in some cases slightly larger in the nonbreeding season. These results suggest that, while parallels to behavior exist between the sexes, mor- phological changes in adulthood in the dewlap motoneu- rons and muscle do not normally regulate courtship behavior in the male green anole. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons,
Internal ribosome entry sites in cellular mRNAs: Mystery of their existence

Although studies on viral gene expression were essential for the discovery of internal ribosome entry sites (IRESs), it is becoming increasingly clear that IRES activities are present in a significant number of cellular mRNAs. Remarkably, many of these IRES elements initiate translation of mRNAs encoding proteins that protect cells from stress (when the translation of the vast majority of cellular mRNAs is significantly impaired). The purpose of this review is to summarize the progress on the discovery and function of cellular IRESs. Recent findings on the structures of these IRESs and specifically regulation of their activity during nutritional stress, differentiation, and mitosis will be discussed.
Reports of role descriptions of acute care nurse practitioners

Expanded roles and practice settings are evolving for the Acute Care Nurse Practitioner (ACNP). In this study, the ACNP's role is described by 384 people seeking certification. Although ACNPs continue to work predominantly in tertiary care centers, ACNP roles in secondary and other facilities have emerged. Acute care nurse practitioners report that managing patient care; providing care consistency; interacting with family members; planning for patient discharge; and teaching the patient, family, and other members of the health care team are major focuses of the role. Changes in health care will continue to give rise to new and innovative settings for ACNP practice. Communication about the ACNP remains essential to gaining acceptance of the role and enabling its expansion.
Optimizing outcomes in bariatric surgery: outpatient laparoscopic gastric bypass.

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is the most common surgical procedure in the United States for the treatment of morbid obesity.1 In the 1990s, there was considerable debate regarding the benefits of laparoscopic over open procedures. In a review of 5235 patients who underwent either laparoscopic (lap) or open RYGB between 1994 and 2002, Nguyen and others showed a significant decrease in the incidence of iatrogenic splenectomy, wound infection, incisional hernias, and mortality for the laparoscopic approach.2 However, there was an increased incidence of bowel obstruction as a result of internal hernias, stomal stenosis, and gastrointestinal tract hemorrhage with the lap-RYGB. Since 2002, there have been reports of technical and perioperative improvements in care that have helped to reduce these complications.3–5 A change in the gastrojejunal anastomotic size from 21 mm to 25 mm led to a decrease in the incidence of stomal stenosis from 26.8% to 8.8%.6 A change in the roux limb from a retrocolic approach to an antecolic approach was shown to decrease the incidence of internal hernias from 4.5% to 0.43%.7 The timing of thrombotic prophylaxis has helped to decrease the incidence of gastrointestinal hemorrhage.8 McGrath reported on the evolutionary changes of the lap RYGB and outlined the development of a safer laparoscopic procedure.9 As improvements in technique are identified and as Centers of Excellence are developed, programs can adopt these strategies into a best practice model to achieve the lowest possible rates of complications and to decrease hospital length of stay. The purpose of this article is to report on a large, single institutional experience of patients undergoing a lap RYGB with sequential incorporation of operative and postoperative modifications to achieve the lowest possible rate of pain, nausea, and postoperative complications. The net result of an ideal minimally invasive procedure is a patient who is ambulatory, tolerating liquids without nausea, and capable of hospital discharge. In this study, the measure of an optimal postoperative course was measured by the number of patients capable of hospital discharge within 24 hours.
Cyclosporine pharmacokinetics and effect in the type I diabetic rat model.

Recent clinical studies have demonstrated the potential benefit of the T-cell-specific immunosuppressant, cyclosporine, in the treatment of Type I insulin-dependent diabetes. In the present study, steady-state cyclosporine pharmacokinetics, fasting glucose and insulin levels and renal function were examined in stable insulin-dependent diabetic rats and compared to non-diabetic rats. Mean creatinine clearance 30 days following diabetes induction was not significantly different from saline controls. Cyclosporine treatment (5 mg/kg/day i.v. for 13 days) did not significantly alter creatinine clearance in either group; however, renal function of vehicle-treated diabetic rats was markedly reduced compared to other groups. Serum insulin concentrations were significantly greater in diabetic rats treated with cyclosporine compared to the control group (35.1 +/- 22.7 vs. 16.0 +/- 8.1 microU/ml; P less than 0.05). Glucose levels were proportionately reduced in diabetic rats treated with cyclosporine. Area under the concentration-time curve, half-life and volume of distribution of cyclosporine were significantly reduced in diabetic rats compared to non-diabetic controls. In summary, the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of cyclosporine were significantly different in the insulin-dependent diabetic rat model compared to normal controls. Furthermore, short-term cyclosporine therapy reduced the extent of experimental diabetic nephropathy observed in this model.
Crystal structure of histamine dehydrogenase from Nocardioides simplex

Histamine dehydrogenase (HADH) isolated from Nocardioides simplex catalyzes the oxidative deamination of histamine to imidazole acetaldehyde. HADH is highly specific for histamine, and we are interested in understanding the recognition mode of histamine in its active site. We describe the first crystal structure of a recombinant form of HADH (HADH) to 2.7-A resolution. HADH is a homodimer, where each 76-kDa subunit contains an iron-sulfur cluster ([4Fe-4S](2+)) and a 6-S-cysteinyl flavin mononucleotide (6-S-Cys-FMN) as redox cofactors. The overall structure of HADH is very similar to that of trimethylamine dehydrogenase (TMADH) from Methylotrophus methylophilus (bacterium W3A1). However, some distinct differences between the structure of HADH and TMADH have been found. Tyr(60), Trp(264), and Trp(355) provide the framework for the "aromatic bowl" that serves as a trimethylamine-binding site in TMADH is comprised of Gln(65), Trp(267), and Asp(358), respectively, in HADH. The surface Tyr(442) that is essential in transferring electrons to electron-transfer flavoprotein (ETF) in TMADH is not conserved in HADH. We use this structure to propose the binding mode for histamine in the active site of HADH through molecular modeling and to compare the interactions to those observed for other histamine-binding proteins whose structures are known.
Quick viewpoint switching for manipulating virtual objects in hand-held augmented reality using stored snapshots

Magic-lens style augmented reality applications allow users to control camera pose easily by manipulating a portable hand-held device and provide immediate visual feedback. However, strategic vantage points must often be revisited repeatedly, adding time and error and taxing memory. We describe a new approach that allows users to take snapshots of augmented scenes that can be virtually revisited at later times. The system stores still images of scenes along with camera poses, so that augmentations remain dynamic and interactive. Users can manipulate virtual objects while viewing snapshots, instead of moving to real-world views. We present a study comparing performance in snapshot and live mode conditions in a task in which a virtual object must be aligned with two pairs of physical objects. Proper alignment requires sequentially visiting two viewpoints. Participants completed the alignment task significantly faster and more accurately using snapshots than when using the live mode. Moreover, participants preferred manipulating virtual objects using snapshots to the live mode.
Reflections on our work

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to reflect upon the journal, Reference Services Review, since the editorship of Ilene F. Rockman began in 1986.Design/methodology/approach – The paper describes how the journal has become one of the most respected in its profession, has encouraged new authors and published several ground‐breaking articles over the past two decades.Findings – The journal's standard of excellence is high and continues to model a commitment to, and passion for, reference services and collections, utilization of technology to help users and innovation in library instruction and information library programs.Originality/value – The paper offers a reflection of RSR and its contribution toward equity and social responsibility.
The occurrence and consequences of deoxyuridine in DNA

Abstract Deoxyuridine can become resident in the DNA of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells via two general mechanisms — deamination of cytosine to uracil, and nucleotide pool changes that lead to misincorporation of deoxyuridine in place of thymidine. In this paper we have examined the chemical basis of deamination reactions in DNA and discussed a possible mechanism for an increased rate of deamination by means of cross-strand protonation of cytosine by alkylated guanine. In addition, we have examined the genetic and drug-induced conditions that lead to dUMP misincorporation into DNA in place of thymidine and have presented experimental evidence indicating that the antifolate-induced lesion is a general drug-dose dependent lesion of human blood cells. Finally, the toxic and genetic impact of this lesion has been evaluated within the context of a review of the repair mechanisms elicited by dUMP in DNA.
Ethane Ices in the Outer Solar System: Spectroscopy and Chemistry

We report recent experiments on ethane ices made at temperatures applicable to the outer Solar System. New near- and mid-infrared data for crystalline and amorphous ethane, including new spectra for a seldom-studied solid phase that exists at 35-55 K, are presented along with radiation-chemical experiments showing the formation of more-complex hydrocarbons,
Rejoinder: Why do we test multiple traits in genetic association studies?

This is a rejoinder to the discussions of “Why do we test multiple traits in genetic association studies”.
THE DISTRIBUTION OF CHOLECYSTOKININ AND VASOACTIVE INTESTINAL PEPTIDE IN RHESUS MONKEY BRAIN AS DETERMINED BY RADIOIMMUNOASSAY

Abstract The concentration of cholecystokinin (CCK) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) in dissected cortical and subcortical areas of four rhesus monkeys' brains was determined by radioimmunoassay (RIA). Cerebral cortical samples from one human brain are included for comparison. Preliminary data from two baboon brains are described. The results are similar to previous studies on rat (1–7), human (7–12), porcine (12,13), bovine (3) and guinea pig brains (14) and indicate that: 1) both CCK and VIP are widely distributed in cortical and subcortical areas in these species, 2) CCK is generally more abundant than VIP in primate brain, and 3) the distribution of CCK and VIP in the rat brain parallel those in infrahuman primate and human brain.
NONREPRESENTATIONAL SHAPES AND EYE MOVEMENTS

Eye movements of 13 Ss in response to a structured sample of 42 polygons were recorded, using the Brandt Eye Camera, to find out “how people look at nonrepresentational shapes.” The ultimate purpos...
Lexical transfer: a tough problem to structure-bound

One of the necessary tasks of a machine translation system is lexical transfer. In some cases there is a one-to-one mapping from source language word to target language word. What theoretical model is followed when there is a one-to-many mapping? Unfortunately, none of the linguistic models that have been used in machine translation include a lexical transfer component. In the absence of a theoretical model, this paper will suggest a new way to test lexical transfer systems. This test is being applied to an MT system under development. One possible conclusion may be that further effort should be expended developing models of lexical transfer.
Isotopic and steric perturbations of 2E-chromium(III) excited state behavior in fluid solution: Evidence for a solvent mediated, strongly coupled quenching channel

Abstract The lifetimes of the lowest-energy excited state designated 2E, of chromium(III) complexes in fluid solution decrease markedly with increasing temperatures near ambient conditions, but become nearly temperature independent at lower temperatures. The details of the temperature dependence are dependent on the medium and the solvent is implicated as a participant in the quenching process. Perdeuteration of coordinated amine (or ammine) ligands in Cr([14]ane-N4)(CN)2+ai] ([14]aneN4 = 1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclodecane) and Cr(NH3)63+ results in increased lifetimes in all the temperature regimes investigated. This implicates a substantial nuclear reorganizational barrier for the quenching process in fluid solutions. The most likely quenching channel in fluid solutions involves an adiabatic crossing from the excited state potential energy surface of a ground state reaction intermediate.
Left ventricular shape is the primary determinant of functional mitral regurgitation in heart failure.

Objectives. The aim of this study was to examine the temporal association between the onset of functional mitral regurgitation and the development of changes in left ventricular shape, chamber enlargement, mitral anulus dilation and regional wall motion abnormalities during the course of evolving heart failure. Background. Despite extensive characterization, the exact etiology of functional mitral regurgitation in patients with chronic heart failure remains unknown. Methods. Heart failure was produced in seven dogs by multiple sequential intracoronary microembolizations. Serial changes in left ventricular chamber volume and shape were evaluated from ventriculograms. Changes in mitral anulus diameter and ventricular regional wall motion abnormalities were evaluated echocardiographically. The presence and severity of mitral regurgitation were determined with Doppler color flow mapping. Measurements were obtained at baseline and then biweekly until mitral regurgitation was first observed. Results. No dag had mitral regurgitation at baseline but all developed mild to moderate regurgitation 12 ± 1 weeks after the first embolization. The onset of mitral regurgitation was not associated with an increase in left ventricular end-diastolic volume relative to baseline (58 ± 3 vs. 62 ± 3 ml), mitral anulus diameter (2.4 ± O.1 vs. 2.4 ± 0.1 cm) or wall motion abnormalities of left ventricular wall segments overlying the papillary muscles. In contrast, the onset of mitral regurgitation was accompanied by significant changes in global left ventricular shape evidenced by increased end-systolic chamber sphericity index (0.22 ± 0.02 vs. 0.30 ± 0.01) (p < 0.01) and decreased end-systolic major axis/ minor axis ratio (1.71 ± 0.05 vs. 1.43 ± 0.04) (p < 0.001). Conclusions. These data indicate that transformation of left ventricular shape (increased chamber sphericity) is the most likely substrate for the development of functional mitral regurgitation.
Influence of end groups on in vitro release and biological activity of lysozyme from a phase-sensitive smart polymer-based in situ gel forming controlled release drug delivery system.

Abstract Phase-sensitive in situ gel forming controlled release formulations of lysozyme were prepared using poly lactic acid (PLA) and/or poly glycolic acid (PGA) based polymers differing in end groups in addition to composition, and a solvent system consisting of various ratios of benzyl benzoate (BB) and benzyl alcohol (BA). The amount of lysozyme in the released samples was determined by measuring absorbance at 280 nm using suitable controls to nullify the effect of absorption of formulation degradation products. Biological activity of lysozyme was studied by an enzyme activity assay using Micrococcus lysodeikticus as substrate. Polymers bearing carboxylic acid end group were not soluble in 100% BB but polymers having ester end groups were soluble up to 27% (w/v) except polymer 4. A biphasic release profile consisting of slower first phase followed by faster second phase was observed. Formulations prepared from polymer with carboxylic acid groups showed significantly (p
Interrater reliability and predictive validity of the FOUR score coma scale in a pediatric population

The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) was developed in 1974 to objectively describe neurological status and predict outcome in neuroscience patients. Through the years, the GCS has become the gold standard for coma assessment. Despite its widespread use, the GCS has many limitations that are well documented in the literature. The Full Outline of Unresponsiveness (FOUR) score is a new coma scale that was recently developed and validated in adults as a proposed replacement for the GCS. The purpose of this study was to compare the interrater reliability and predictive validity of the FOUR score and the GCS in pediatric patients. The interrater reliability for the GCS was good (k(w) = .738), and that for the FOUR score was excellent (k(w) = .951). Outcome prediction analysis showed that the FOUR score and the GCS are both able to predict in-hospital morbidity and poor outcome at the end of hospitalization. The results from this pediatric study were consistent with the adult studies which suggest that the FOUR score is a reliable and valid tool for use in a wide variety of neuroscience patients.
Three simulation approaches to queueing studies using GASP IV

Abstract Simulation modeling can be constrained by the simulation language with which you are familiar. GASP IV eliminates many constraints by combining discrete and continuous concepts into one language. This paper discusses the simulation modeling philosophy as implied by the GASP IV simulation language. Three models representing different conceptualizations of queueing situations will be developed and the GASP IV code required to obtain a simulation program for each of the models will be described. No attempt will be made to present GASP IV, as it is fully documented [1] and is currently running on a wide variety of computers that have FORTRAN IV compilers. † Also, no attempt will be made to discuss the advantages of simulation in studying queueing situations or a comparison of simulation languages. These topics are covered extensively in texts on applied operations research and simulation techniques. This paper provides a comparison of approaches to modeling and demonstrates the implementation of queueing models using GASP IV. The inherent capability of GASP IV to provide a structure in which diverse modeling approaches to queueing situations can be used illustrates the broad modeling persepective offered to the GASP IV user. GASP IV is the only well-documented simulation language available for obtaining discrete, continuous or combined models of systems. ‡
Maturation and fecundity of Roanoke River-Albemarle sound striped bass

Abstract Since the early 1940s, several investigators have determined age-at-maturity schedules for female striped bass Morone saxatilis at various locations along the Atlantic coast of the USA. These researchers have used one of two sets of criteria to determine whether a female is sexually mature; however, recent work suggests that these methods may underestimate the number of females entering the spawning population at an early age (e.g., ages 3 and 4). The objectives of our study were (1) to compare three methods and criteria for establishing sexual maturity and (2) to use all three methods in establishing a maturity schedule for female striped bass. Also, we estimated potential fecundity of the fish as a function of size, weight, and age. Two hundred sixty-five female striped bass were collected from the Roanoke River–Albemarle Sound system of North Carolina during the prespawning and spawning seasons (March–May) of 1989 and 1990. Females ranged in size from 344 to 1,172 mm fork length and in age fro...
The Future Demand for Military Expenditure in Argentina

(1986). The future demand for military expenditure in Argentina. Arms Control: Vol. 7, No. 2, pp. 197-204.
Simulated annealing implementation with shorter Markov chain length to reduce computational burden and its application to the analysis of pulmonary airway architecture

A new way to implement the Simulated Annealing (SA) algorithm was developed and tested that improves computation performance by using shorter Markov chain length (inner iterations) and repeating the entire SA process until the final function value meets the solution criterion. The new approach coupled with the adaptive neighborhood method was tested on the Rosenbrock function in 4 and 13 dimensions. This implementation significantly improved the computation speed without degrading solution quality. The proposed implementation was used to characterize pulmonary architecture from micro CT image data demonstrating the algorithm's effectiveness especially for problems with high computational demand and when the solution quality requirement can be pre-specified. Using this implementation, detailed statistics of the morphometry of conducting airways from 12 male Sprague Dawley rats were obtained for each lobe.
Recombinant human parainfluenza virus type 2 vaccine candidates containing a 3′ genomic promoter mutation and L polymerase mutations are attenuated and protective in non-human primates

Previously, we identified several attenuating mutations in the L polymerase protein of human parainfluenza virus type 2 (HPIV2) and genetically stabilized those mutations using reverse genetics [Nolan SM, Surman S, Amaro-Carambot E, Collins PL, Murphy BR, Skiadopoulos MH. Live-attenuated intranasal parainfluenza virus type 2 vaccine candidates developed by reverse genetics containing L polymerase protein mutations imported from heterologous paramyxoviruses. Vaccine 2005;39(23):4765-74]. Here we describe the discovery of an attenuating mutation at nucleotide 15 (15(T-->C)) in the 3' genomic promoter that was also present in the previously characterized mutants. We evaluated the properties of this promoter mutation alone and in various combinations with the L polymerase mutations. Amino acid substitutions at L protein positions 460 (460A or 460P) or 948 (948L), or deletion of amino acids 1724 and 1725 (Delta1724), each conferred a temperature sensitivity (ts) phenotype whereas the 15(T-->C) mutation did not. The 460A and 948L mutations each contributed to restricted replication in the lower respiratory tract of African green monkeys, but the Delta1724 mutation increased attenuation only in certain combinations with other mutations. We constructed two highly attenuated viruses, rV94(15C)/460A/948L and rV94(15C)/948L/Delta1724, that were immunogenic and protective against challenge with wild-type HPIV2 in African green monkeys and, therefore, appear to be suitable for evaluation in humans.
Effectiveness of a microvascular surgery training curriculum for orthopaedic surgery residents.

Background: The safe and effective acquisition of microvascular surgical skills is a challenge for any residency program. Variable clinical exposure to microsurgery, premiums on operating room efficiency, and a steep learning curve make these skills difficult to acquire through clinical experience alone. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of a training curriculum on the development of microvascular surgical skills in our orthopaedic residents. Methods: A microvascular training curriculum was completed during each third-year resident’s rotation on the hand and upper-extremity service. The training cycle began with learning the basics of microvascular surgery on nonliving models and progressed to performing end-to-end arterial anastomoses on a live rat femoral artery in the second session. Outcome evaluations consisted of the Global Rating Scale score, achievement of patency, and time to completion. T test analyses of Global Rating Scale scores, achievement of patency, and time to completion were conducted to determine significance (p < 0.05). Results: All residents significantly improved (p < 0.005) on Global Rating Scale scores from a mean score (and standard deviation) of 15 ± 4 points for the initial score to 20 ± 3 points for the post-test score. Of the twelve residents, patency was achieved by eleven at the final evaluation, compared with six before training. Time to completion of the anastomosis also significantly improved (p < 0.005), from a mean of 37:17 ± 8:41 minutes for the initial time to 24:46 ± 5:32 minutes for the final time. Conclusions: In an effort to improve the microvascular surgical skills of orthopaedic residents at our institution, a microvascular training curriculum was developed and was implemented. This curriculum was effective at improving resident microvascular surgical skills at the completion of an eight-week course.
How B cells shape the immune response against Mycobacterium tuberculosis

Extensive work illustrating the importance of cellular immune mechanisms for protection against Mycobacterium tuberculosis has largely relegated B-cell biology to an afterthought within the tuberculosis (TB) field. However, recent studies have illustrated that B lymphocytes, through a variety of interactions with the cellular immune response, play previously underappreciated roles in shaping host defense against non-viral intracellular pathogens, including M. tuberculosis. Work in our laboratory has recently shown that, by considering these lymphocytes more broadly within their variety of interactions with cellular immunity, B cells have a significant impact on the outcome of airborne challenge with M. tuberculosis as well as the resultant inflammatory response. In this review, we advocate for a revised view of TB immunology in which roles of cellular and humoral immunity are not mutually exclusive. In the context of our current understanding of host defense against non-viral intracellular infections, we review recent data supporting a more significant role of B cells during M. tuberculosis infection than previously thought.
Modified fast inhomogeneous plane wave algorithm from low frequency to microwave frequency [computational electromagnetics]

Computational electromagnetics (CEM) is facing increasingly more complex geometries calling for more sophisticated solutions. Hence efficient fast algorithms are urgently needed and studied. Among the developed methods, the MLFMA (multi-level fast multipole algorithm) is an attractive way to solve problems with the large number of unknowns. MLFMA algorithms work well at high frequencies or low frequencies but there are low-frequency breakdown problems to be addressed. In this paper, we present a single new algorithm, MFIPWA (modified fast inhomogeneous plane wave algorithm), without the low-frequency breakdown problem of MLFMA. This method combines the extrapolation technique used in the FIPWA (fast inhomogeneous plane wave algorithm) and the evanescent-wave translation. With a single algorithm, it provides a seamless transition between high and low frequencies. Moreover, it is error controllable in a wide frequency range from static to microwave for EMC analysis. Hence, it can be used in full-band RCS computations as well as on-chip EMC simulation.
Improved geometrical design of the US DCLL ITER test blanket module

Computational fluid dynamics simulations have demonstrated flow problems within the helium flow path in the current US DCLL ITER test blanket module design. New geometry for the helium flow path has been designed that will improve flow evenness and simplify the overall helium flow path within the test blanket module while maintaining the overall test blanket module geometry. Global changes to the test blanket module geometry can be implemented based on these improvements.
Single- and Dual-Polarized Tunable Slot-Ring Antennas

Single-and dual-polarized slot-ring antennas with wideband tuning using varactor diodes have been demonstrated. The single-polarized antenna tunes from 0.95 to 1.8 GHz with better than -13 dB return loss. Both polarizations of the dual-polarized antenna tune from 0.93 to 1.6 GHz independently with better than -10 dB return loss and > 20 dB port-to-port isolation over most of the tuning range. The capacitance of the varactor diodes varies from 0.45 to 2.5 pF, and the antennas are printed on 70times70 times0.787 mm3 substrates with epsivr = 2.2. The dual-polarized slot-ring antenna can either be made both frequency- and polarization-agile simultaneously, or can operate at two independent frequencies on two orthogonal polarizations. To our knowledge, this is the first dual-polarized tunable antenna with independent control of both polarizations over a 1.7:1 frequency range.
Surface Classification Using Conformal Structures

3D surface classification is a fundamental problem incomputer vision and computational geometry. Surfaces canbe classified by different transformation groups. Traditionalclassification methods mainly use topological transformationgroups and Euclidean transformation groups. This paperintroduces a novel method to classify surfaces by conformaltransformation groups. Conformal equivalent classis refiner than topological equivalent class and coarser thanisometric equivalent class, making it suitable for practicalclassification purposes. For general surfaces, the gradientfields of conformal maps form a vector space, which hasa natural structure invariant under conformal transformations.We present an algorithm to compute this conformalstructure, which can be represented as matrices, and use itto classify surfaces. The result is intrinsic to the geometry,invariant to triangulation and insensitive to resolution. Tothe best of our knowledge, this is the first paper to classifysurfaces with arbitrary topologies by global conformal invariants.The method introduced here can also be used forsurface matching problems.
Nonparametric correction of distortion

Images taken with wide angle and inexpensive medium angle lenses show substantial distortion, which will cause many computer vision applications to malfunction. Parametric calibration algorithms cannot handle the wide range of possible distortion functions and they require a known image center, expensive equipment, and/or estimation of unneeded parameters. We present a new algorithm to remove distortion. It is similar to the plumb line method but it: (a) uses images of spheres rather than lines, (b) corrects to stereographic rather than perspective projection, (c) calibrates aspect ratio, and (d) uses a nonparametric distortion model.
Saccadic Intrusions into Smooth Pursuit in Patients with Schizophrenia or Affective Disorder and Normal Controls

Abstract Two types of saccadic intrusions into smooth pursuit eye tracking, anticipatory saccades (AS), and square wave jerks (SWJ), were measured in 23 patients with schizophrenia, 16 patients with affective disorder, and 21 normal controls. Constant velocity (5° and 20°/sec) predictable targets were employed. High resolution infrared oculography was employed to record eye movements. Although most subjects had at least one SWJ, there were no significant group differences, and the highest individual rates of SWJ were seen in the normal control group. On the other hand, AS were never seen in normals, but were present in 25%–44% of patients with either schizophrenia or affective disorder. Both patient groups had significantly more AS than controls, but the two patient groups were not significantly different.
Complex function by design using spatially pre-structured synthetic microbial communities: degradation of pentachlorophenol in the presence of Hg( ii )

Naturally occurring microbes perform a variety of useful functions, with more complex processes requiring multiple functions performed by communities of multiple microbes. Synthetic biology via genetic engineering may be used to achieve desired multiple functions, e.g. multistep chemical and biological transformations, by adding genes to a single organism, but this is sometimes not possible due to incompatible metabolic requirements or not desirable in certain applications, especially in medical or environmental applications. Achieving multiple functions by mixing microbes that have not evolved to function together may not work due to competition of microbes, or lack of interactions among microbes. In nature, microbial communities are commonly spatially structured. Here, we tested whether spatial structure can be used to create a community of microbes that can perform a function they do not perform individually or when simply mixed. We constructed a core–shell ﬁber with Sphingobium chlorophenolicum, a pentachlorophenol (PCP) degrader, in the core layer and Ralstonia metallidurans, a mercuric ion (Hg(II)) reducer, in the shell layer as a structured community using microﬂuidic laminar ﬂow techniques. We applied a mixture of PCP and Hg(II) to either a simple well-mixed culture broth (i.e. the unstructured community) or the spatially structured core–shell ﬁbers. We found that without spatial structure, the community was unable to degrade PCP in the presence of Hg(II) because S. chlorophenolicum is sensitive to Hg(II). In contrast, with spatial structure in a core–shell ﬁber system, S. chlorophenolicum in a core layer was protected by R. metallidurans deposited in a shell layer, and the community was able to completely remove both PCP and Hg(II) from a mixture. The appropriate size of the core–shell ﬁber was determined by the Damko¨hler number—the timescale of removal of Hg(II) was on the same order of the timescale of diﬀusion of Hg(II) through the outer layer when the shell layer was on the order of B200 mm. Ultimately, with the ease of a child putting together ‘Legos’ to build a complex structure, using this approach one may be able to put together microorganisms to build communities that perform functions in vitro or even in vivo, e.g. as in a ‘‘microbiome on a pill’’.
White Student Confessions about a Black Male Professor: A Cultural Contracts Theory Approach to Intimate Conversations about Race and Worldview

In the present investigation, we seek to explore racial relationships in a meaningful way that opens discussion about racial and gendered beings, particularly Black males. We qualitatively examine White student responses to their Black male professor's presence and pedagogy in the classroom during a required course titled “Intercultural Communication.” The results indicated that the White student participants tended initially to be more critical toward their Black male professor, and over time were more accepting and trusting of him, yet not so willing to forfeit their fairly conservative views on social reality.
Vasoconstriction caused by the ATP synthase subunit-coupling factor 6: a new function for a historical enzyme.

Enhancement of arterial vasoconstriction and depression of endothelial cell–dependent relaxation have been reported by many investigators as characteristics of vascular dysfunction in hypertension.1 These dysfunctions support the increase in total peripheral resistance observed in experimental and human forms of hypertension. Because arterial smooth-muscle cell hyperreactivity and reduced vasoactive function of the endothelial cell are observed in response to multiple stimuli (eg, serotonin, norepinephrine, KCl in smooth muscle; acetylcholine, bradykinin, A23187 in endothelial cell) and are thus not necessarily agonist-specific, researchers have investigated the idea that more general mechanisms of signal transduction are altered and support global changes in vascular function. These include alterations in composition and function of elements as diverse as potassium channels, calcium channels, sodium-potassium ATPase, G-proteins, membrane lipid composition, etc. In this issue of Hypertension , the study by Osanai et al2 reveals a new function for a protein subunit of an enzyme that is ubiquitously expressed in all tissues, the ATP synthase. Figure 1 depicts our classic understanding of the ATP synthase. This ancient enzyme is present in the inner membrane of mitochondria and is responsible for generation of ATP. Synthesis of ATP is generated by the movement of hydrogen ions from the intermembrane space into the matrix of the mitochondria through the transmembrane H+ carrier (Fo) with subsequent movement of the Fi portion of the enzyme that coordinates the interaction of the subunits and ATP synthesis.3 This powerhouse of an enzyme can synthesize more than 100 molecules of ATP per second; this enzyme can also function in the reverse direction, hydrolyzing ATP. The H+ channel and the enzymatic portion of the …
Design, implementation, and performance evaluation of MPI 3.0 on portals 4.0

The latest version of the Portals interconnect programming interface contains several improvements intended for MPI point-to-point and one-sided communication operations, including new functionality defined in MPI-3. This paper discusses the rationale for these improvements to Portals and describes how they can be used in an MPI implementation. We provide preliminary micro-benchmark performance results using a reference implementation of Portals over InfiniBand Verbs and the Open MPI implementation.