cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Principles and strategies in breeding for higher salt tolerance

Salinity is an environmental component that usually reduces yield. Recent advances in the understanding of salt effects on plants have not revealed a reliable physiological or biochemical marker that can be used to rapidly screen for salt tolerance. The necessity of measuring salt tolerance based upon growth in saline relative to non-saline environments makes salt tolerance measurements and selection for tolerance difficult. Additionally, high variability in soil salinity and environmental interactions makes it questionable whether breeding should be conducted for tolerance or for high yield. Genetic techniques can be used to identify the components of variation attributable to genotype and environment, and the extent of genetic variation in saline and nonsaline environments can be used to estimate the potential for improving salt tolerance. Absolute salt tolerance can be improved best by increasing both absolute yield and relative salt tolerance.
Sorting in average time o (log n )

This paper presents a comparison sorting algorithm for the abstract CROW PRAM parallel computer model. The algorithm sorts n input values using n processors and runs in time $O(\log n/\log \log n)$ on the average, assuming that all permutations of the input are equally likely.
Exercise-induced sucrose suppression in the rat.

Abstract Rats given the opportunity to exercise in activity wheels reduce their sucrose intake and total caloric intake. This suppression is a result of exercise and not, as previously reported, of neophobia.
Data communications teams: the best of both worlds

Computer Centers and Communications Departments (campus telephone people) are having to work more and more together because of the increased amount of computing and networking equipment found in today's campuses. Furthermore, the lines between what is a computer and what is a telephone are getting very blurred as technology becomes more sophisticated. It is getting to the point where day-to-day problems are handled by both groups, sometimes with undesirable finger pointing and “left hand versus right hand” lack of coordination.This paper will discuss the importance of and steps towards creating a Data Communications Team (DCT). This team ideally consists of software and hardware “gurus” from the computer center, as well as equipment and physical plant technologists from the communications department. Problems and solutions can be identified and resolved in a more efficient and coordinated fashion, and the team's ability to present a “United Front” when dealing with the users cannot be ignored. UAB is currently assembling their DCT, and this paper will also include initial results, adjustments, and hints for others wanting to develop their own team.
Perceived Cultural Housing Differences and Residential Satisfaction: A Case Study of Korean Sojourners

A sojourner is an individual who visits or lives in another country for a brief period with no intention of permanently remaining in the host country. Based on a model by Marans and Rodgers (Metropolitan America in Contemporary Perspective, 1975, 299), sojourners' residential satisfaction is hypothesized to be dependent on their perception of particular housing aspects, which is affected by their personal characteristics. The purpose of this study was to examine the residential satisfaction of Korean sojourners in one city in the United States. Using a mixed methods design, cultural housing differences were identified through 10 in-depth interviews and data from 235 surveys. The results indicated that perceived cultural housing differences significantly influenced physical housing perception, neighborhood perception, and attachment, which significantly influenced residential satisfaction. Future research should include a wide variety of ethnic groups in an attempt to support and extend the findings of this study.
Investigations on the structural, electrical, and magnetic properties of Nd2-xSrxNiO4+δ

Abstract Solid-solutions of the type Nd 2− x Sr x NiO 4+ δ (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) were prepared by codecomposition of the metal nitrates and were characterized by means of powder X-ray diffraction, TGA, electrical resistivity, and magnetic susceptibility measurements. Nd 2 NiO 4+δ possesses orthorhombic symmetry at ambient temperatures and exhibits a phase transition to pseudo-tetragonal symmetry upon doping with Sr 2+ ( x ≈ 0.2). The tetragonality ratio c a t measured as a function of x shows an anomalous increase at x ≈ 0.2 and a maximum near x = 0.6. Considerable deviation from oxygen stoichiometries was observed in the orthorhombically distorted members, while for the samples with tetragonal geometry the oxygen contents were near the ideal value. All the samples, except NdSrNiO 4 , were semiconducting from room temperature down to 10 K. NdSrNiO 4 showed a metal-semiconductor transition at ∼ 190 K. The magnetic susceptibility shows Curie-Weiss behavior with an onset of long range antiferromagnetic ordering ( T N = 17 K) in some of the intermediate members of the solid-solution series. The effect of Sr 2+ substitution on the structural and electronic properties of Nd 2− x Sr x NiO 4+δ are discussed in terms of the mixed valence character of Ni 2+ Ni 3+ , distortions in the local coordination of NiO octahedra, and correlation effects of d x 2 − y 2 bands in the NiO basal plane.
Quantum non-locality vs. quasi-local measurements in the conditions of the Aharonov-Bohm effect

Theoretical explanation of the Meissner effect involves proportionality between current density and vector potential, which has many deep consequences. As noticed by de Gennes, superconductors in a magnetic field "find an equilibrium state where the sum of kinetic and magnetic energies is minimum" and this state "corresponds to the expulsion of the magnetic field". This statement still leaves an open question: from which source is the superconducting current acquiring its kinetic energy? A naive answer, perhaps, is from the energy of the magnetic field. However, one can consider situations (Aharonov-Bohm effect), where the classical magnetic field is locally absent in the area occupied by the current. Experiments demonstrate that despite the local absence of the magnetic field, current is, nevertheless, building up. From what source is it acquiring its energy then? Locally, only a vector potential is present. How does the vector potential facilitate the formation of the current? Is the current formation a result of a truly non-local quantum action, or does the local action of the vector potential have experimental consequences? We discuss possible experiments with a hybrid normal-metal superconductor circuitry, which can clarify this puzzling situation. Experimental answers will be important for further developments.
Drivers and barriers to seeking treatment for erectile dysfunction: a comparison of six countries

Objective To identify predictors of treatment-seeking behaviour in men with erectile dysfunction (ED) and the predictors (correlates) of individual drivers and barriers to seeking treatment. Although the prevalence and epidemiology of ED have been reviewed, there is little information about the treatment-seeking behaviour of men with this disorder. Subjects and methods Data from the Cross-National Survey on Male Health Issues conducted between March and September 2000 were assessed by multivariate analysis. A cohort of 32 644 men aged 20-75 years was recruited during visits to their physicians. The men completed a short screening questionnaire, covering their overall health, and prostate, urinary and erectile problems. Men identified as having ED completed a detailed follow-up questionnaire. Logistic regression methods were used to identify predictors of treatment-seeking behaviour, and individual drivers and barriers to seeking treatment. Results Most men with ED had not sought treatment. The analyses suggested that ED, in conjunction with a desire to have sex, was necessary for men to seek treatment. Men seeking treatment commonly identified themselves as self-motivated or that they were influenced by a spouse or sex partner. The youngest group (20-39 years) was least likely to seek treatment. Among those who did not seek treatment, younger men were likely to believe that their ED would resolve spontaneously, whereas older men resisted seeking treatment because they felt that ED was a natural part of ageing. Conclusions The data from this survey of men using the healthcare system confirmed other population-based reports that a minority of men with ED seek treatment. Subset analyses showed that treatment-seeking behaviour tended to be driven primarily by the man or by his sex partner. Common barriers to seeking treatment included the belief that ED would resolve spontaneously (younger men) and that ED was a normal part of ageing (older men).
A direct method for calculating flutter speeds

The basic objective of this work is to provide a direct and simple means for calculating classical flutter. The analysis makes no use of free vibration modes, although the method is readily adaptable to a modal type approach. Only subsonic aerodynamics are considered; however, the method applies to any speed regime. The problems of following modes and modal coupling are completely avoided. The simplicity and accuracy of the direct solution is stressed. The analysis is applicable to both straight and swept wings although only straight wings, uniform as well as nonuniform, are presented.
Nifedipine influence on calcium and aluminum absorption in roots of three sorghum cultivars

Abstract A 1,4‐dihydroxypyridine type of ion channel blocker, nifedipine [1,4‐dihydro‐2,6‐dimethyl‐4‐(2‐nitrophenyl)‐3,5‐pyridinedicarboxylate dimethyl ester], was tested on the root absorption of Al3+ and Ca2+ by sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] cultivars with varying acid stress tolerance. In an acid stress sensitive cultivar, Funk G522DR, nifedipine (1 μM) influenced Ca2+ but not Al3+ absorption. In one acid stress tolerant cultivar, SC574, nifedipine (1 μM) influenced both Ca2+ and Al3+ absorption. In a second acid stress tolerant cultivar, SC283, nifedipine (1 μM) did not influence Ca2+ but did influence Al3+ absorption. Considerable genetic diversity is present in Ca2+ and Al3+ absorption between sorghum cultivars.
Inhibition of estrone sulfatase in human liver microsomes by quercetin and other flavonoids

Inhibition of estrone sulfatase activity offers the potential for breast cancer prevention therapy by blocking a route to estrogen synthesis. We have investigated the inhibition of this activity by natural flavonoids in a human hepatic microsomal preparation in vitro. The majority of studies were performed with a male liver, but male and female livers exhibited comparable estrone sulfatase activities. The natural flavonoids, quercetin, kaempferol, and naringenin, significantly inhibited estrone sulfatase activity with I50 < 10 microM for the most potent, quercetin. Estrone sulfatase activity in the liver microsomes was biphasic, with a high affinity, low capacity, low concentration activity (Km 14.3 microM, Vmax 0.5 nmol/min/mg protein), probably steroid sulfatase-catalysed, and a low affinity, high capacity, high concentration activity (Km 1.5 mM, Vmax 21.5 nmol/min/mg protein), probably arylsulfatase C or E-catalysed. The former activity was inhibited uncompetitively by quercetin, the latter competitively. Quercetin, a natural dietary constituent, is a potent inhibitor of estrone sulfatase in vitro, and thus has the potential to express antiestrogenic activity in vivo.
alphaBot workshop: constructing robots, translating language

In this workshop you will construct simple, robotic, drawing machines from a pre-fabricated kit of parts and program them to draw/write letters/characters/glyphs. No programming experience is needed, you just need to be interested in autonomous robotics, open-source Arduino programming, written language, and/or post-digital art/design practices. The intention of this workshop is not only to learn very basic open-source hardware and software skills, but more importantly, how to use these as tools to experiment with the phenomenological aspects of written language. You may take home the drawings/writing that you produce during the workshop, (in addition to the knowledge you gain!).
Stability of spore-based biosensing systems under extreme conditions

Abstract The full exploitation of bacterial whole-cell biosensing systems in field applications requires the survival of bacterial cells and long-term preservation of their sensing ability during transportation and on-site storage of such analytical systems. Specifically, there is a need for rapid, simple and inexpensive biosensing systems for monitoring human health and the environment in remote areas as well as developing countries, which often suffer from harsh atmospheric conditions and inadequate commercial distribution and storage facilities. Our laboratory has previously reported the successful use of bacterial spores as vehicles for the long-term preservation and storage of whole-cell biosensing systems at room temperature. In the present research, we have accomplished a year-long study to investigate the effect of extreme climatic conditions on the stability of spores-based whole-cell biosensing systems. The spores were stored in laboratory conditions that simulated those found in real harsh environments, including, extreme temperatures and humidity levels, and desiccation. This study was crucial in determining the germination ability and analytical performance of the spore-based sensing systems upon storage in such conditions in order to support their effective use in the field, in extreme environments. Our results proved that the intrinsic resistance of spores to harsh environmental conditions helped maintain the integrity of the encapsulated sensor bacteria. The revived active cells actually retained their analytical performance during the course of the 12-month storage study. We envision that spore-based sensing systems could pave the way to the use of whole-cell biosensors in field applications and in areas where they have not been employed so far.
Time and Length Corrections in the Analysis of the Initial Stages of Diffusion‐Controlled Sintering

All models of the initial stages of sintering assume instantaneous heating of the shrinkage specimens to the sintering temperature. However, the time to reach the sintering temperature and the accompanying shrinkage can seriously affect the apparent shrinkage-time dependence that is used to identify the shrinkage mechanism. The thermal expansion of unsintered compacts is shown to be identical with that calculated from published thermal expansion coefficients. The correct initial hot length of a shrinkage compact is therefore the cold length corrected for thermal expansion. The time to heat a shrinkage specimen was measured and is identical with both the calculated heating time and that determined by extrapolating a length vs. time plot to the initial hot length. The length and time corrections obtained from this extrapolation are compared with those obtained by the methods of Johnson and Cutler and of Anderson.
Radiographic measurements, bone mineral density, and the singh index in the proximal femur of white and black postmenopausal women

Abstract Background: Radiographic measurements, bone mineral density (BMD), and the Singh Index were examined to assess ethnic differences in the architecture and trabecular patterns in the proximal femur. Methods: We measured height (cm), weight (kg), and the following radiographic variables in 326 white and black postmenopausal women participating in the Women's Health Initiative at the Clinical Center in Detroit, MI: neck breadth, inferior neck cortical thickness, head diameter, subtrochanteric breadth, and subtrochanteric medial and lateral cortical thicknesses. Bone densitometry was performed by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (Hologic QDR 1000 plus; Hologic Inc, Bedford, MA) at 5 regional sites in the proximal femur. The Singh Index was read by its originator. Results and Conclusions: There was no significant ethnic difference in mean age, height, or body mass index, but weight and BMD was higher in the black group at all regional sites. The inferior neck cortical thickness was significantly greater in the black group. The Singh Index was found to be grade VI (normal) in 87%, grade V in 9%, and grades II-IV in 4% of all subjects. Multiple regression models explained 35% to 60% of the variance in the regional BMDs; the Singh Index, weight, and subtrochanteric cortical thicknesses were significant contributors to all regional hip BMD models. Although there were ethnic differences in BMD, there were no ethnic differences in the distribution of the Singh Index scores. Key words: Singh Index, bone mineral density, ethnic differences, hip radiographs Dis Mon 2002;48:637-656
Site-specific phosphorylation of a synthetic peptide derived from ribosomal protein S6 by human placenta protein kinases

A synthetic peptide S6-21 (AKRRRLSSLRASTSKSESSQK) which contains the phosphorylated residues in the ribosomal protein S6 has been used as a substrate for two partially purified human placenta protein kinases. Two distinct classes of protein kinases which catalyze either amino terminal (AKRRRLSS) or carboxyl terminal (LRASTSKSESSQK) peptide phosphorylation were identified. Multiple sites were phosphorylated in each domain. A single protein kinase which catalyzed phosphorylation of sites in both domains was identified. Although growth factors are known to promote phosphorylation of S6 at five serine sites, no enzyme which could modify S6-21 to that extent was observed.
Anthropogenic factors and habitat complexity influence biodiversity but wave exposure drives species turnover of a subtropical rocky inter‐tidal metacommunity

Coastal ecosystems are complex and species rich, but are vulnerable to degradation from a variety of anthropogenic activities. Nevertheless, information on inter-tidal community composition in the Caribbean Basin and at other oceanic sites is lacking. Such information is essential to developing a more comprehensive understanding of rocky inter-tidal systems and their responses to global change. The goals of this study were to determine the relative importance of environmental (wave power density, wave height), habitat (e.g. algal cover, slope, complexity of rock surfaces) and anthropogenic (distance to roads, population density) factors associated with the structure of local assemblages at multiple shore heights and the regional metacommunity of mobile invertebrates on oceanic rocky inter-tidal habitats. Environmental characteristics associated with habitat complexity (algal cover, rock surface complexity) and human population density were most strongly associated with abundance and biodiversity of invertebrates. Species richness was positively correlated with surface complexity, but abundance was negatively correlated with both surface complexity and per cent algal cover. By contrast, abundance of invertebrates was positively correlated with human population density, and diversity was negatively correlated with human population density. Abundance of invertebrates was greatest in the mid inter-tidal zone, whereas diversity was greatest in the lower inter-tidal zone. Metacommunity structure was Gleasonian, but the gradient along which species turnover occurred was correlated with measures of wave exposure, rather than anthropogenic activity. Unlike in previous studies, mostly at mainland sites, human activity primarily altered dominance patterns of communities, while having relatively little effect on species richness or composition.
Clinical Considerations in the Treatment of Substance Use Disorders with Veterans.

This article addresses issues associated with the treatment of substance use disorders (SUD) in the U.S. veteran population. First, we examine special considerations regarding the assessment of alcohol and drug use in veterans. Second, we discuss current treatment approaches that have demonstrated efficacy in this population, with special consideration the issue of co-morbidity (especially SUD and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder). Third, we discuss two strategies to coordinate treatment of SUD: stepped care as a way to implement these treatments for SUD alone, and integrated treatment for SUD and co-morbid disorders. Finally, we discuss promising future directions for the treatment of SUD in the veteran population, including examination of mechanisms of behavior change, formal involvement of the veteran’s family in treatment, and use of existing datasets.
Patent Places: Size Matters

In this paper I investigate the United States urban system of technical advance by analysis of metropolitan patent data. Residents of metropolitan areas obtain most of the patents awarded to Americans and the largest areas predominate, signifying that urbanization externalities facilitate invention. The advantages of large areas arise from lopsided concentrations of technologically intensive manufacturing and an uneven distribution of well-educated people. Location with respect to the traditional manufacturing belt also plays a role. Metropolitan residents in the manufacturing belt remain the most industrious inventors. The contribution of leading educational and research institutions to technical advance is manifest in small urban centers and outside the traditional manufacturing belt.
Centric Relation Determinations: Clinical and Radiographic Comparisons*

This study investigated variations in occlusal prematurities and condylar positions using different methods of determining centric relation. Thirty patients were randomly placed into three groups of 10. In Group I a clinical analysis of occlusal patterns using bilateral mandibular manipulation (BMM) was compared to results with a chin point (CPM) method. Group II compared CPM to an anterior guidance jig (CPJ) method. Group III compared BMM to CPJ. Standardized transcranial oblique radiographs were taken of each temporomandibular joint using CPM and BMM on 10 patients. Condylar position was determined with tracing evaluations and direct measurements of the radiographs. Clinical results indicated that the initial point of contact was located most accurately with CPJ. Both initial contact points and secondary points were disclosed with CPM. The BMM disclosed the most tooth contacts. Contacts were most prevalent on the premolars. Radiographic analyses of condylar positions were inconclusive.
Pulmonary support on Day 30 as a predictor of morbidity and mortality in congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Purpose Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is associated with significant in-hospital mortality, morbidity and length-of-stay (LOS). We hypothesized that the degree of pulmonary support on hospital day-30 may predict in-hospital mortality, LOS, and discharge oxygen needs and could be useful for risk prediction and counseling.
Latex agglutination test for detection of Candida antigen in patients with disseminated disease

A latex agglutination test has been devised which allows detection of a circulating antigen in patients with systemic infection due to Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis and Candida parapsilosis. Latex is sensitized with serum from rabbits immunized with whole heat killed Candida albicans blastoconidia. The active component of this serum is IgG. Control latex, used to differentiate non-specific agglutination, is sensitized with the same dilution of serum from a rabbit without antibody to Candida species. Sera from a number of patient groups were tested. While none of the hundred normal controls had an antigen titer of greater than or equal to 1:4, 30 of 33 patients with documented disseminated candida infection had antigen titers of 1:4 to 1:32. Two of the 33 gave false negative results, and one caused nonspecific agglutination. In all patients who recovered after antifungal therapy antigen levels returned to within the range found in normal controls.
COORDINATED THROTTLE/BRAKE CONTROL FOR AUTOMATIC HIGHWAY SYSTEMS

Abstract This paper presents the vehicle model and the longitudinal controller used for automated vehicle control. The vehicle model consists of four state equations governing the dynamics of the overall vehicle, brake, and engine. A three-layer robust controller is then developed based on this model. The top layer is a simple sliding controller translating desired acceleration into a “synthetic input” for the middle switching logic layer to decide whether engine or brake torque is needed. The bottom layer has two Dynamics Surface Controllers (DSC); one for the engine, and one for the brake. Thus, the overall vehicle control task is decoupled from the engine and brake control tasks. To address the problem of parameter uncertainties, an adaptive Dynamic Surface Controller is used. Simulation results are presented in the last section.
Low-voltage dynamical properties of superconducting weak links

An extended-resistively-shunted-junction model is described to account for some nonequilibrium effects in superconducting weak links. The theory is based on a one-dimensional linearized time-dependent Ginzburg-Landau equation subject to rigid-boundary conditions. An analytical solution has been obtained by WKB approximation in the low-voltage region, and it can be used to calculate the complete position and time dependence of the supercurrent and pair densities. The supercurrent contains a $cos\ensuremath{\varphi}$ term which appears in good agreement with experimental results. The pair density also contains a similar $cos\ensuremath{\varphi}$ term. Several length- and temperature-dependent effects are predicted. It is shown that this model gives a quantitative description of the phase-slip process at the center of the weak link.
Subsurface Biological Activity in Relation to Ground-Water Pollutiona

Biological activity occurring in subsurface regions below the soil zone may be of considerable importance in determining the fate and effect of pollutants in ground water, but this possibility has received little previous attention. This paper comprises a discussion of subsurface biological activity in regard to ground-water pollution as reflected by available literature references. The subsurface environment is discussed in terms of factors likely to be of greatest significance in regard to the development of biological systems, and previous investigations of subsurface microbial activity are reviewed. Available information indicates the presence in the upper continental crust of the earth of numerous regions, particularly those of sedimentary origin, which are probably suitable habitats for many microbial species. Previous investigations of subsurface microbial activity clearly show the presence of diverse microbial populations in many subsurface regions below the soil zone. Hence, microbial activity appears both possible and probable in most subsurface regions of importance in regard to ground water. Further elucidation of the extent and nature of microbial activity in subsurface regions is needed in developing methods for predicting the impact on ground-water quality of pollutants released into the earth's crust.
Latinas with abnormal breast findings: Patient predictors of timely diagnostic resolution

Background: Incomplete or delayed diagnostic resolution of breast abnormalities suspicious for cancer may contribute to poor breast cancer outcomes among ethnic minority women. We examine the effects of socioeconomic characteristics, knowledge, barriers to healthcare, communication, and clinical variables on diagnostic resolution in Latina women with breast abnormalities at two Los Angeles County public hospitals. Methods: We analyzed telephone survey data for 714 women. The outcome—timely diagnostic resolution—was based on medical record data and defined as receipt of a definitive diagnosis (malignant or benign) within 6 months of the index referral. Predictors of the outcome were obtained from a telephone survey and examined with bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models. Results: Only 60% of women received timely diagnostic resolution; however, the proportion was higher at hospital B (73%) compared with hospital A (56%). In the total sample, the odds of timely diagnostic resolution increas...
Development of oculomotor circuitry independent of hox3 genes.

Hox genes have been implicated in the development and functioning of neural circuits in vertebrates. Here, the authors show that although hox3 genes are not required for overall neural circuit development, they do appear to be necessary to prevent the formation of specific aberrant neuronal connections.
Blocks and Bodies: Sex Differences in a Novel Version of the Mental Rotations Test

A novel version of the Mental Rotations Test (MRT) that alternated the standard block figures with three-dimensional human figures was administered to 99 men and 129 women. Women and men differed predictably in their retrospective reports of childhood play and digit ratios, a putative measure of prenatal androgen action. Compared to the block figure items, human figure items on the modified MRT were associated with an improvement in performance in both sexes. However, consistent with the study hypothesis, the enhancing effect of the human figure condition on performance as measured by conventional scores was smaller in men compared to women and not at all evident in men when performance was measured by ratio scores. A closer inspection of the human figures effects on test scores showed performance in women improved for both male and female figure items. In contrast, relative to scores on block figure items, performance in men improved when stimuli were male figures but did not improve when stimuli were female figures. These results add to the evidence that the magnitude of sex differences in scores on the MRT may vary according to the test content and item properties. The findings suggest that online measures of cognitive processing in response to different classes of test stimuli (e.g., animate vs. inanimate objects, self-relevant vs. neutral stimuli) may prove useful in research aimed at understanding the hormonal and social factors contributing to the sex difference in performance on the MRT.
A New Logit Model for Decision Making and its Application

Logit models attempt to answer the following question. Given a set of alternatives, each with multiple attributes, what is the probability that a decision maker will choose a certain alternative? Initially psychologists, then economists and marketing strategists, more recently transportation policy makers and design engineers have employed logit models. A brief review of these models is given in an attempt to show their relevance to more general decision-making situations, and their descriptiveness of human decision-making processes. A new model which synthesizes the desirable features of earlier models is then presented. The new model is applied to an actual case of predicting customer purchase probabilities for a particular brand of an industrial product. The prediction capability of the model is externally validated statistically, using real data, by comparing model results with the actual market share of the company.
Dietary bioavailability of Cu adsorbed to colloidal hydrous ferric oxide.

The dietary bioavailability of copper (Cu) adsorbed to synthetic colloidal hydrous ferric oxide (HFO) was evaluated from the assimilation of 65Cu by two benthic grazers, a gastropod and a larval mayfly. HFO was synthesized, labeled with 65Cu to achieve a Cu/Fe ratio comparable to that determined in naturally formed HFO, and then aged. The labeled colloids were mixed with a food source (the diatom Nitzschia palea) to yield dietary 65Cu concentrations ranging from 211 to 2204 nmol/g (dry weight). Animals were pulse fed the contaminated diet and assimilation of 65Cu from HFO was determined following 1–3 days of depuration. Mass transfer of 65Cu from HFO to the diatom was less than 1%, indicating that HFO was the source of 65Cu to the grazers. Estimates of assimilation efficiency indicated that the majority of Cu ingested as HFO was assimilated (values >70%), implying that colloidal HFO potentially represents a source of dietary Cu to benthic grazers, especially where there is active formation and infiltratio...
A scaling transformation for classifier output based on likelihood ratio: Applications to a CAD workstation for diagnosis of breast cancer

Purpose: The authors developed scaling methods that monotonically transform the output of one classifier to the “scale” of another. Such transformations affect the distribution of classifier output while leaving the ROC curve unchanged. In particular, they investigated transformations between radiologists and computer classifiers, with the goal of addressing the problem of comparing and interpreting case-specific values of output from two classifiers. Methods: Using both simulated and radiologists’ rating data of breast imaging cases, the authors investigated a likelihood-ratio-scaling transformation, based on “matching” classifier likelihood ratios. For comparison, three other scaling transformations were investigated that were based on matching classifier true positive fraction, false positive fraction, or cumulative distribution function, respectively. The authors explored modifying the computer output to reflect the scale of the radiologist, as well as modifying the radiologist’s ratings to reflect the scale of the computer. They also evaluated how dataset size affects the transformations. Results: When ROC curves of two classifiers differed substantially, the four transformations were found to be quite different. The likelihood-ratio scaling transformation was found to vary widely from radiologist to radiologist. Similar results were found for the other transformations. Our simulations explored the effect of database sizes on the accuracy of the estimation of our scaling transformations. Conclusions: The likelihood-ratio-scaling transformation that the authors have developed and evaluated was shown to be capable of transforming computer and radiologist outputs to a common scale reliably, thereby allowing the comparison of the computer and radiologist outputs on the basis of a clinically relevant statistic.
Degradation of chemicals by reactive radicals produced by cellobiose dehydrogenase from Phanerochaete chrysosporium.

Phanerochaete chrysosporium, grown on cellulose, produced a cellobiose-dependent dehydrogenase which reduced both ferric iron and molecular oxygen, resulting in the generation of the hydroxyl radical. The hydroxyl radical was detected in reaction mixtures with and without the addition of exogenous H2O2. The purified reductase and the fungus grown under nonligninolytic conditions that promote the production of the reductase were able to depolymerize an insoluble polyacrylate polymer. When oxalate, a secondary metabolite of P. chrysosporium, was used as the iron chelator, it was oxidized by the hydroxyl radical to form the carboxylate anion radical, a strong reductant. Under these reductive conditions, the enzyme was shown to catalyze the reduction of bromotrichloromethane to the trichloromethyl radical. We propose that these oxidative and reductive mechanisms may contribute to the degradation of a wide range of environmental pollutants by fungi which produce this enzyme.
Induction of Mrp3 and Mrp4 transporters during acetaminophen hepatotoxicity is dependent on Nrf2

The transcription factor NFE2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) mediates detoxification and antioxidant gene transcription following electrophile exposure and oxidative stress. Mice deficient in Nrf2 (Nrf2-null) are highly susceptible to acetaminophen (APAP) hepatotoxicity, and exhibit lower basal and inducible expression of cytoprotective genes, including NADPH quinone oxidoreductase 1 (Nqo1) and glutamate cysteine ligase (catalytic subunit, or Gclc). Administration of toxic APAP doses to C57BL/6J mice generates electrophilic stress and subsequently increases levels of hepatic Nqo1, Gclc and the efflux multidrug resistance-associated protein transporters 1–4 (Mrp1-4). It was hypothesized that induction of hepatic Mrp1-4 expression following APAP is Nrf2-dependent. Plasma and livers from wild-type (WT) and Nrf2-null mice were collected 4, 24 and 48 hrs after APAP. As expected, hepatotoxicity was greater in Nrf2-null compared to WT mice. Gene and protein expression of Mrp1-4 and the Nrf2 targets, Nqo1 and Gclc, was measured. Induction of Nqo1 and Gclc mRNA and protein after APAP was dependent on Nrf2 expression. Similarly, APAP treatment increased hepatic Mrp3 and Mrp4 mRNA and protein in WT, but not Nrf2-null mice. Mrp1 was induced in both genotypes after APAP, suggesting that elevated expression of this transporter was independent of Nrf2. Mrp2 was not induced in either genotype at the mRNA or protein levels. These results show that Nrf2 mediates induction of Mrp3 and Mrp4 after APAP, but does not affect Mrp1 or Mrp2. Thus coordinated regulation of detoxification enzymes and transporters by Nrf2 during APAP hepatotoxicity is a mechanism by which hepatocytes may limit intracellular accumulation of potentially toxic chemicals.
Gross morphology and arterial supply of the papillary muscles of the left ventricle of man

Abstract The arterial vasculature of the papillary muscles of the left ventricle was studied in detail in ten human hearts, using the technique of stereoscopic arteriography followed by detailed histologic examination. The arrangement of the arterial vasculature of the papillary muscle seemed to be related to the gross morphologic characteristics of the papillary muscle. Two predominant types of arrangement were noted. Papillary muscles that were fingerlike received a large central artery which coursed through the entire papillary muscle to its apex dividing dichotomously to supply the papillary muscle. Such papillary muscles had very few or no anastomotic connections with the extrapapillary subendocardial plexus of vessels. The papillary muscles that were completely tethered to the subjacent ventricular wall had a segmental distribution of the long penetrating intramyocardial vessels. The papillary muscles of the mixed type had a combination of both types of vascular arrangement. Both the mixed type and the completely tethered papillary muscles with the segmental pattern of arterial distribution had many anastomotic connections with the extrapapillary subendocardial plexus. These anatomic variations could have a considerable influence on functional alterations as well as pathologic changes in the papillary muscles accompanying disturbances in arterial circulation to the region of the papillary muscles.
Pig exploitation in the southern Kanto region, Japan

This study investigates changes in past human and animal relationships by focusing on pig (Sus scrofa) remains excavated from archaeological sites in southern Kanto, Japan. Pigs and humans have had a close relationship since prehistoric times and the process of change in this relationship, including possible domestication, is one of the major issues in Japanese zooarchaeology. This study attempts to gain a better understanding of the nature of past interaction between humans and pigs by investigating their relative importance compared with other vertebrate remains, kill-off patterns, and changes in their size and shape at these sites. The materials used for this study date from the Earliest to Final Jomon (ca. 10,000–2500 BP), Yayoi (ca. 2500–1700 BP) and Kofun (ca. 1700–1300 BP) periods. The relative proportions of pigs were calculated to show the overall trend of pig exploitation in each site. Age at death was obtained based on the state of tooth eruption. Bucco-lingual crown measurements were taken on the third and fourth premolars and on each cusp of the first and second molars of the mandible, and the logarithmic ratio technique was then applied to these data. The age structure of Sus varies between different sites in the Jomon Period, and significant changes were observed in the Yayoi and Kofun Periods. A decrease in the relative proportion of pigs in the faunal assemblages was observed from Jomon to Kofun. Three major differences were observed in the size of pigs. The overall size of pigs significantly increased from Early to Middle Jomon, whilst a decrease in size occurred in the Yayoi Period. Finally, overall size increased significantly during the Kofun Period. Together with the archaeological evidence—such as the ritual burial of pigs accompanying human burial—we suggest that the interaction between pigs and humans became gradually stronger at some sites during the Late Jomon Period, and the relationship intensified in the Yayoi Period. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed; How the Thermoacidophilic Archaeon Sulfolobus solfataricus Responds to Oxidative Stress

To avoid molecular damage of biomolecules due to oxidation, all cells have evolved constitutive and responsive systems to mitigate and repair chemical modifications. Archaea have adapted to some of the most extreme environments known to support life, including highly oxidizing conditions. However, in comparison to bacteria and eukaryotes, relatively little is known about the biology and biochemistry of archaea in response to changing conditions and repair of oxidative damage. In this study transcriptome, proteome, and chemical reactivity analyses of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) induced oxidative stress in Sulfolobus solfataricus (P2) were conducted. Microarray analysis of mRNA expression showed that 102 transcripts were regulated by at least 1.5 fold, 30 minutes after exposure to 30 µM H2O2. Parallel proteomic analyses using two-dimensional differential gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE), monitored more than 800 proteins 30 and 105 minutes after exposure and found that 18 had significant changes in abundance. A recently characterized ferritin-like antioxidant protein, DPSL, was the most highly regulated species of mRNA and protein, in addition to being post-translationally modified. As expected, a number of antioxidant related mRNAs and proteins were differentially regulated. Three of these, DPSL, superoxide dismutase, and peroxiredoxin were shown to interact and likely form a novel supramolecular complex for mitigating oxidative damage. A scheme for the ability of this complex to perform multi-step reactions is presented. Despite the central role played by DPSL, cells maintained a lower level of protection after disruption of the dpsl gene, indicating a level of redundancy in the oxidative stress pathways of S. solfataricus. This work provides the first “omics” scale assessment of the oxidative stress response for an archeal organism and together with a network analysis using data from previous studies on bacteria and eukaryotes reveals evolutionarily conserved pathways where complex and overlapping defense mechanisms protect against oxygen toxicity.
Essentials of Thoracic Imaging

Diagnostic radiology, like many other medical specialties, does not allow physicians to maintain competence solely on the basis of accumulating experience, but requires a commitment to life– long learning. Keeping pace with new knowledge and new technology competes with clinical demands on a radiologist’s time. At the 2002 annual meeting in Chicago, the Radiological Society of North America initiated a series of continuing medical education lectures called bThe Essentials.Q Attendance and audience feedback surpassed all expectations. Surveys of radiologists attending bThe EssentialsQ lectures showed an equal mix of general radiologists, and radiologists who practice subspecialties outside the lecture topic. The participants were seeking practical information that would impact their daily radiology work—applying new technologies to diseases that are encountered every day. My goal for this issue of Radiologic Clinics of North America is to condense the overwhelming
On the data model and access method of summary data management

A data model and an access method for summary data management are presented. Summary data, represented as a trinary tuple (statistical function, category, summary), are metaknowledge summarized by a statistical function of a category of individual information typically stored in a conventional database. For instance, (average-income, female engineer with 10 years' experience and master's degree, $45000) is a summary datum. The computational complexity of the derivability problem has been found intractable in general, and the proposed summary data model, enforcing the disjointness constraint, alleviates the intractable problem without loss of information. In order to store, manage, and access summary data, a multidimensional access method called summary data (SD) tree is proposed. By preserving the category hierarchy, the SD tree provides for efficient operations, including summary data search, derivation, insertion, and deletion. >
Learning and literacy: A research agenda for post-2015

Ongoing policy discussions concerning the post-2015 future of the United Nations Millennium Development Goals are providing the basis for renewed efforts to understand and improve learning and literacy in a global perspective. Aiming for a pathway towards better scientific understanding, this paper asks a central question: What research would be necessary over the coming decade to realise the goal of improving learning and literacy in poor communities in low-income countries? The joint topics of learning and literacy development, and the factors which influence outcomes, are complex and intertwined – which is one reason why universal literacy has still not been achieved in spite of major investments over the years. Research will play a crucial part in addressing this challenge, and this paper proposes and reviews ten major areas of learning and literacy research. Designing and responding to an appropriate set of research priorities will be one of the crucial ways of addressing the question of how to improve learning, literacy and educational quality in the post-2015 period.
Effective antiviral treatment of systemic orthopoxvirus disease: ST-246 treatment of prairie dogs infected with monkeypox virus

Smallpox preparedness research has led to development of antiviral therapies for treatment of serious orthopoxvirus infections. Monkeypox virus is an emerging, zoonotic orthopoxvirus which can cause severe and transmissible disease in humans, generating concerns for public health. Monkeypox virus infection results in a systemic, febrile-rash illness closely resembling smallpox. Currently, there are no small-molecule antiviral therapeutics approved to treat orthopoxvirus infections of humans. The prairie dog, using monkeypox virus as a challenge virus, has provided a valuable nonhuman animal model in which monkeypox virus infection closely resembles human systemic orthopoxvirus illness. Here, we assess the efficacy of the antiorthopoxvirus compound ST-246 in prairie dogs against a monkeypox virus challenge of 65 times the 50% lethal dose (LD(50)). Animals were infected intranasally and administered ST-246 for 14 days, beginning on days 0, 3, or after rash onset. Swab and blood samples were collected every 2 days and analyzed for presence of viral DNA by real-time PCR and for viable virus by tissue culture. Seventy-five percent of infected animals that received vehicle alone succumbed to infection. One hundred percent of animals that received ST-246 survived challenge, and animals that received treatment before symptom onset remained largely asymptomatic. Viable virus and viral DNA were undetected or at greatly reduced levels in animals that began treatment on 0 or 3 days postinfection, compared to control animals or animals treated post-rash onset. Animals treated after rash onset manifested illness, but all recovered. Our results indicate that ST-246 can be used therapeutically, following onset of rash illness, to treat systemic orthopoxvirus infections.