cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evolution of senescence: influence of age-dependent death rates on the natural increase of a hypothetical population.

Abstract A hypothetical population is characterized by functions of age which describe its longevity and its maternity rate. Solution of the renewal equation for the birth rate of the population yields a characteristic equation which, in contradiction to the results of previous studies, may have more than one real root. The largest real root of the characteristic equation is the rate of natural increase, r , of the population and is used as a measure of its selective advantage. The maternity rate is represented by a rising or falling exponential function of age. Longevity is represented by a series each term of which has the form of a gamma distribution function. As the number of terms increases, the mean longevity remains constant, but the function becomes progressively more rectangular in shape; the early death rate declines, while the death rate in old age increases. Unless the reproductive fraction is small, each such decrease in the youthful death rate more than compensates for the corresponding increase in old age and causes an increment in r which is interpreted as a step toward the evolution of senescence. Although the degree of change in r attendant upon a change in the age-dependency of the death rate is related to the initial value of the maternity function, it is not influenced by the age dependency of the maternity function.
Conservative versus Mean Risk Assessments: Implications for Superfund Policies

Abstract This paper explores how a shift to more central estimates of risk would affect EPA decisions to remediate hazardous waste sites in the Superfund program. Analysis of 141 sites indicates that the EPA's use of conservative parameter values results in risk estimates that are 27 times greater than those based on mean values. Over 40% of sites requiring remediation would shift into the discretionary cleanup range if mean parameters were used. Though this paper examines the effect of using mean parameters for contaminant concentrations, exposure duration, and ingestion rates, additional adjustments for other conservative parameters might increase this effect.
Combined free and forced convection in hydromagnetic flows, in vertical wavy channels, with travelling thermal waves

Abstract Numerical results are presented (through graphs) for the stream function, temperature, and flow and heat transfer characteristics. These results are obtained by solving the coupled nonlinear partial differential equations describing the conservation of mass, momentum and energy by a perturbation technique. Two cases are studied; namely, the hydrodynamic (HD) case and the hydromagnetic (HM) case. Values of the stream function Ψ in the HD case are larger than those in the HM case. This qualitatively agrees with the expectations, since the magnetic field exerts a retarding force on the free convection flow. Furthermore, the stream function and the temperature field are more prominent in the presence of heat sources than in their absence.
Stereo and Alternating-Pair Techniques for Display of Computer-Generated Images

Electro-optical stereo pair displays and alternating-pair displays are both viable methods for true 3-D representation of computer-generated images.
A Non-Active-Site SET Domain Surface Crucial for the Interaction of MLL1 and the RbBP5/Ash2L Heterodimer within MLL Family Core Complexes

The mixed lineage leukemia-1 (MLL1) enzyme is a histone H3 lysine 4 (H3K4) monomethyltransferase and has served as a paradigm for understanding the mechanism of action of the human SET1 family of enzymes that include MLL1–MLL4 and SETd1a,b. Dimethylation of H3K4 requires a sub-complex including WRAD (WDR5, RbBP5, Ash2L, and DPY-30), which binds to each SET1 family member forming a minimal core complex that is required for multiple lysine methylation. We recently demonstrated that WRAD is a novel histone methyltransferase that preferentially catalyzes H3K4 dimethylation in a manner that is dependent on an unknown non-active-site surface from the MLL1 SET domain. Recent genome sequencing studies have identified a number of human disease-associated missense mutations that localize to the SET domains of several MLL family members. In this investigation, we mapped many of these mutations onto the three-dimensional structure of the SET domain and noticed that a subset of MLL2 (KMT2D, ALR, MLL4)-associated Kabuki syndrome missense mutations map to a common solvent-exposed surface that is not expected to alter enzymatic activity. We introduced these mutations into the MLL1 SET domain and observed that all are defective for H3K4 dimethylation by the MLL1 core complex, which is associated with a loss of the ability of MLL1 to interact with WRAD or with the RbBP5/Ash2L heterodimer. Our results suggest that amino acids from this surface, which we term the Kabuki interaction surface or KIS, are required for formation of a second active site within SET1 family core complexes.
Identification of Donors, Acceptors, and Traps in Bulk-Like HVPE GaN

Abstract The first GaN was grown by hydride vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE) more than 30 years ago, and now thick, large-area HVPE layers are being proposed as substrates for GaN devices. Temperature-dependent Hall-effect, photoluminescence (PL), secondary ion mass spectroscopy, and positron annihilation measurements by different groups over the last few years have identified the dominant donors in HVPE GaN as Si and O, and the dominant acceptor as the Ga vacancy. Another potential donor, the N vacancy VN, has been shown to have a larger activation energy (∼70 meV) than that of Si and O (∼30 meV), and thus to contribute little to the conductivity of almost any as-grown sample. However, VN is also an electron trap, with an effective activation energy of about 160 meV. Several other traps appear regularly in HVPE GaN, and one such trap, at 1.0 eV, may be associated with the N interstitial. However, a trap at 0.60 eV is overall the most common trap in GaN grown by HVPE or any other method. We have recently found a correlation between the 0.60-eV trap and the well-known blue band, at 2.8 eV, but unfortunately the blue band itself has not yet been positively identified. Usually, the 0.60-eV trap is isolated, whereas the 1.0-eV trap is often associated with dislocations.
Sex Differences in Self-Concept and Self-Esteem of Late Adolescents: A Time-Lag Analysis.

The presence of historical change in the self-concept and self-esteem of male and female late adolescents was studied using a time-lag design. Five cohorts of students enrolled in the same university and course, consecutively from 1973 to 1977 (total N=1,141), gave self-ratings to 16 evaluative items relating to traits traditionally associated with sex differences. Mean score across items was the self-esteem index, and the vector of ratings for item content was the self-concept index. Historical continuity in self-esteem was found. Males and females did not differ in mean self-esteem, within or between cohorts, and cohort differences accounted for less than 2% of the variance. Cross-cohort similarity in within-cohort sex differences in self-concept was found also. These differences were minimal, accounting for small proportions of the variance and involving no more than 5 items in any cohort. Late adolescents from recent historical eras thus rated themselves in ways inconsistent with societal stereotypes, and showed minimal differences in their self-appraisals. Results are discussed in relation to (1) theoretical positions with which they are inconsistent and (2) an emerging interactionist view, which they appear to support.
Preoperative and Intraoperative Risk Factors for Side-Specific Positive Surgical Margins in Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy for Prostate Cancer

Abstract Objectives Identification of variables predicting positive surgical margins (PSMs) in patients undergoing laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) for clinically localized prostate cancer is lacking. Our objective was to determine preoperative risk factors and the association of ipsilateral degree of neurovascular bundle dissection (intraoperative factor) with side-specific PSMs in these patients. Material and methods Between October 2002 and April 2005, one surgeon performed LRP on 407 previously untreated patients. Of 814 evaluable prostate sides, 728 harboured prostate cancer in the specimen and composed the study population. For each prostate side, we obtained clinical stage, biopsy Gleason, maximum percentage of tumour in the biopsy, suspected extracapsular extension (ECE) on endorectal coil magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), degree of neurovascular bundle (NVB) dissection, and PSMs. PSM was defined as cancer cells at the inked margins. Logistic regression analyses with random effects were generated. Results Of the 728 prostate sides with cancer, 51 (7%) had at least one PSM. In multivariable analysis, higher PSA ( p =0.01), Gleason score of 7 compared with ≤6 in the biopsy ( p =0.04), lower prostate volume on MRI ( p =0.01), and interfascial NVB dissection compared with intrafascial dissection ( p =0.01) were associated with an increased risk of side-specific PSMs. Suspected ECE on MRI ( p =0.9) and clinical stage ( p =0.3) were not significantly associated with side-specific PSMs. A subset analysis of 321 patients with bilateral tumours did not show statistically significant differences in PSMs according to tumour side ( p =0.3). Conclusions High serum prostate-specific antigen, biopsy Gleason score of 7, low prostate volume, and interfascial NVB dissection were independently associated with side-specific PSMs after LRP, and should be considered during planning of the LRP surgical strategy.
Activation of Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors Augments Calcium Channel-mediated Exocytosis in Rat Pheochromocytoma (PC12) Cells

The functional effect of activating Ca2+-permeable neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) on vesicle secretion was studied in PC12 cells. Single cells were patch-clamped in the whole-cell configuration and stimulated with either brief pulses of nicotine to activate the Ca2+-permeable nAChRs or with voltage steps to activate voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels. Membrane capacitance was used as a measure of vesicle secretion. Activation of nAChRs by nicotine application to cells voltage clamped at −80 mV evoked secretion. This secretion was completely abolished by nicotinic antagonists. When the cells were voltage clamped at +20 mV in the presence of Cd2+ to block voltage-activated Ca2+ channels, nicotine elicited a small amount of secretion. Most interestingly, when the nAChRs were activated coincidentally with voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels, secretion was augmented approximately twofold over the secretion elicited with voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels alone. Our data suggest that Ca2+ influx via nAChRs affects Ca2+-dependent cellular functions, including vesicle secretion. In addition to the secretion evoked by nAChR activation at hyperpolarized potentials, we demonstrate that even at depolarized potentials, nAChRs provide an important Ca2+ entry pathway underlying Ca2+-dependent cellular processes such as exocytosis.
Measuring productivity change in telecommunications

Abstract Incentive regulation in the form of price caps is now an important regulatory tool in the telecommunications industry in the United States. As part of the implementation of incentive regulation, there is a need to measure accurately the change in productivity. In this paper an approach is introduced that not only provides a measure of the change in productivity but the technique also allows for a decomposition into two mutually exclusive and exhaustive components – changes in technical efficiency over time and shifts in technology over time. Using data on four output measures and six input measures for three time periods for 19 individual LECs, the indicate that productivity increased by about 34% between 1988 and 1998 or about 3.0% per year. This growth is due primarily to innovation rather than improvements in efficiency. Of the 19 LECs in the sample, 12 were operating efficiently throughout the entire 1988–1998 period. Of the remaining 7, 5 showed a slight improvement in efficiency while the efficiency of two declined. In the aggregate, however, efficiency improved. Finally, a comparison is made between two methods of estimating the change in productivity. The conventional-growth-accounting approach and the Malmquist index approach yield somewhat different results. Essentially the same data are used so that the primary difference is most likely in the technique applied.
Therapeutic and functional results of limb salvage to treat sarcomas of the forearm and hand

Twenty-six patients with soft tissue sarcomas of the forearm and hand were treated with limb salvage protocols involving surgical wide excision, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Six received immediate or delayed reconstructive surgery to improve function. The average delay from the time of the first medical consultation until the correct diagnosis was made was 4.5 months. The average follow-up period was 44 months; a 91% survival rate was observed, with an 8% rate of local recurrence. Functional abilities were assessed by a questionnaire concerning work, household activities, and overall satisfaction with the surgical result. Eight-six percent of the patients had an excellent functional result, and 84% reported excellent satisfaction with their operation.
Cross-country evidence on the value of corporate industrial and international diversification

Abstract We provide evidence on the value of industrial and international diversification for more than 3000 firms from Germany, the U.K., and the U.S. Consistent with prior studies, we find that industrial diversification reduces firm value in the U.K. and the U.S. Furthermore, similar to the recent findings of Denis et al. [J. Finance 57 (2002)], we find that U.S. multinationals trade at a discount relative to firms operating only in the domestic market. This result is robust to different benchmarks used to measure the value of diversification. By contrast, we find that international diversification has no effect on the value of firms headquartered in either Germany or the U.K.
Allophylastrum: a new genus of Sapindaceae from northern South America.

The new genus Allophylastrum (Sapindaceae) is described from Roraima, Brazil and Guyana. Allophylastrum resembles the genus Allophylus in its vegetative morphology but differs by its apetalous flowers with a cupular nectary disc, 5–6 unequal stamens, and 4- to 5- porate pollen grains. A key is provided to differentiate Allophylastrum from Allophylus. The new species Allophylastrum frutescens is described and illustrated.
Factors influencing sweat gland innervation in diabetes

Background: Using a stereologic approach, the density of nerve fibers innervating sweat gland (SG) fragments in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and healthy controls using protein gene product (PGP), tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) was measured to determine which marker best detected differences between the groups. Factors associated with SG nerve fiber (SGNF) innervation were assessed and the change in SG innervation over a 1-year time period was determined. Methods: Ninety-two control subjects and 2 groups of subjects with DM totaling 97 were assessed in this cross-sectional study. Intraepidermal nerve fiber density and SG innervation were determined from leg skin biopsies that were immunohistochemically stained for ubiquitin hydrolase, VIP, and TH. Factors associated with SG innervation were assessed and 15 subjects were longitudinally followed for 1 year. Results: SGNF innervation was reduced in subjects with DM compared with controls. Lower SG innervation values were associated with increasing glycated hemoglobin A 1c , body mass index (BMI), men compared with women, and tobacco use, but not diabetes type or age. Sex, A 1c , and BMI remained significant in multivariate modeling. SG innervation measured by VIP+ fibers is a more sensitive marker for neuropathy than either PGP or TH. Fifteen subjects with DM followed for 1 year showed a significant decrease in SGNF innervation but not intraepidermal nerve fiber density. Conclusions: Stereologic measurement of SG innervation is feasible to assess postganglionic autonomic nerve fiber densities. SG innervation was reduced in subjects with DM compared with control subjects and was associated with sex, A 1c , and BMI in multivariate modeling. VIP+ SGNF is more severely reduced in DM than TH+ or PGP9.5+-based assessments. Progression of diabetic polyneuropathy was detected by SGNF over a 1-year time period.
Influence of non-debye relaxation and of molecular shape on the time dependence of the stokes shift in polar media

We present theoretical analyses of two different aspects of the time dependence of the fluorescence Stokes shift in polar liquids. We show that a small deviation from the Debye form for the dielectric relaxation of the solvent can strongly influence the time evolution of the Stokes shift. Using the Davidson-Cole form for dielectric response we find a stretched exponential time dependence as observed in recent experiments. We also show that the shape of the fluorescing molecule can influence the dynamics of solvation.
Gas-exchange chamber analysis of elemental mercury deposition/emission to alluvium, ore, and mine tailings

Deposition of mercury (Hg) from the atmosphere is an important source of this contaminant to terrestrial ecosystems. Once deposited, all forms of Hg can be retained or emitted back to the atmosphere. Distinguishing between volatilization of geogenic or indigenous Hg and that deposited from the atmosphere is difficult. Field flux measurements in the general area of two industrial scale gold mining operations, showed local deposition of Hg emitted from point and nonpoint sources, and subsequent re-emission. The work presented in this paper investigated deposition/emission of elemental Hg to and from alluvium and two mine materials before, during, and after exposure to high air concentrations, for both wet and dry conditions, using a laboratory gas exchange chamber and a Hg permeation source. In general, results showed a range in mean elemental Hg deposition velocities ranging from 0.13 to 0.46 cm s(-1) that varied with material. A significant influence of atmospheric ozone (O3) on flux was observed that depended on the material and whether wet or dry. A synergistic relationship existed between O3 and light promoting Hg flux, and flux was also influenced by material grain size, chemistry, and primary mineralogy.
Defense Mechanisms in Group Counseling

Abstract Considerations and strategies are presented for conceptualizing, recognizing, and modifying defense mechanisms through the group counseling process.
Novel structure of the human GDNF gene

Glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) is the most potent known survival factor for substantia nigra neurons, which degenerate in Parkinson's disease, for spinal motoneurons, which die in Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS), and for Purkinje neurons, the critical outflow cells of the cerebellum. Moreover, targeted deletion of the GDNF gene results in renal dysgenesis and abnormal development of the enteric nervous system. GDNF mRNA is expressed in a complex temporospatial pattern in the central nervous system and the periphery, consistent with these observations. To begin elucidating mechanisms regulating the pattern of expression of GDNF, we have cloned the human gene, and characterized the promoter. The promoter is highly GC rich, and lacks canonical CCAT-box and TATA-box motifs. It contains more than 12 binding sites for known transcription factors. These cis-elements have the potential to interact with factors regulating constitutive expression (Sp1) and developmental expression (bHLH). Moreover, the promoter contains sites for binding transcription factors which respond to environmental signals, including CREB, AP2, Zif/268, NFkB, and MRE-BP. Combinatorial actions of these transcription factors may account for the extraordinarily complex expression patterns of the GDNF gene. Importantly, we demonstrate that the hGDNF gene utilizes a promoter distinct from that identified in the rodent GDNF gene, a finding with ramifications for Parkinson's disease and ALS research.
Global Poverty: No Longer an Untouchable Problem

Poverty has plagued humanity for generations. Even today roughly 1.3 billion people in developing countries live in abject poverty as measured by the international income threshold. Despite the pro...
In situ measurements of USO performance in space using the twin GRAIL spacecraft

Ultra-stable oscillators (USO) are flown on a variety of different science missions to provide stable timing and/or navigation. Typically, their performance is measured at the part in 1013 level before launch and can only be verified in space via measurements that must propagate through, and potentially be degraded by, the Earth's atmosphere. To date, two missions are able to demonstrate USO performance in space, without atmospheric limitations, using twin spacecraft: Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) and Gravity Recovery and Interior Laboratory (GRAIL). With the recent launch of GRAIL, a NASA mission to map out the gravity field of the Moon, the clock and timing community has access to microwave tracking data from a pair of satellites flying independent USOs. In addition, since GRAIL took a circuitous three-month journey to the Moon, there was a 30-minute opportunity to obtain USO versus USO data when the spacecraft were not in orbit around the Earth or the Moon. This paper presents GRAIL Allan deviation data obtained during this payload-checkout in September 2011 and during the Science Phase in March 2012, and also analyzes data from GRACE using these new methods.
THE GENRE AND FUNCTION OF THE MARKAN PASSION NARRATIVE

An important component in the recent discussion of the Second Gospel has been a continuing fascination with the Markan passion narrative. John Donahue has summarized the research under three headings, which represent recurring questions that scholars have put to the text. (1) What roles did the Scriptures and their motifs play in the formation and growth of the Markan passion narrative? (2) Did Mark make use of an extant passion narrative, and if so, what did it look like? (3) To what extent and in what ways does the Markan passion narrative reflect Mark's own theological and literary interests?
Cloning and expression pattern of the Xenopus erythropoietin receptor

Cytokine signaling plays an important role in the survival and differentiation of vertebrate hematopoietic cells. In red blood cells, erythropoietin is a key component of the differentiation program and maintains the homeostasis of the erythroid compartment. In the adult, anemia stimulates high levels of circulating erythropoietin that drives erythropoiesis to restore normal levels of red blood cells in circulation. Erythropoietin activates the erythropoietin receptor on immature red blood cell precursors to promote their survival and differentiation. Although extensively studied in mammalian systems, a complete understanding of the function of the erythropoietin receptor during primitive erythropoiesis has been lacking. To address this problem, we have cloned the Xenopus laevis erythropoietin receptor in order to further understand the development of primitive erythropoiesis. The amphibian erythropoietin receptor shares 33% amino acid sequence identity with the mammalian erythropoietin receptors and contains the conserved extracellular ligand binding and fibronectin domains, the WSXWS motif common to cytokine receptors, and several tyrosine phosphorylation sites located on the intracellular domain of the receptor. Expression of the erythropoietin receptor is first detected by in situ hybridization in the ventral blood island during tailbud stages.
General theory of polycrystalline ENDOR patterns: effects of finite EPR and ENDOR component linewidths

Recently (I) we presented a general method for calculating ENDOR spectra of a randomly oriented polycrystalline (powder) S = 4 paramagnet (2, 3) that has g and hyperfme tensors of arbitrary symmetry and relative orientation. That study (Paper I) laid a foundation for the detailed analysis of polycrystalline ENDOR spectra, as well as for the heuristic categorization of such spectra, much as EPR spectra long have been classified (isotropic, axial, rhombic (4)). To this end the calculations in I used a “double delta function” approach, employing a-function EPR and ENDOR component lineshapes. They showed that polycrystalline ENDOR spectra can exhibit a rich array of features when the static field is set to a g value where the EPR signal arises from a well-defined set of orientations of the paramagnet, rather than a single crystal-type setting. The principal values and relative orientation of a hyperline tensor can be obtained by examining such angle-selected spectra obtained as the observing g value (static field) is moved across the EPR envelope. We now have generalized the analysis to permit full simulations of polycrystalline ENDOR spectra by including finite EPR and ENDOR component linewidths. The calculations presented here show that the two types of features that arise in the double delta-function limit, divergences and maxima, both persist as absorption peaks in the full simulations. These ENDOR peaks broaden equally as the ENDOR component linewidth, W,,, increases, but in general they do not broaden equally as the EPR component linewidth, W,, increases. Instead, the rate at which a peak broadens with W, is related to (&/dg), the rate of change in its ENDOR frequency with observing g value. The essential features of the approach developed in I are first summarized, and then are extended to include EPR and ENDOR component linewidths. When the external field is set to an arbitrary value, Ho, within a a-function EPR envelope, the EPR signal intensity, and thus an ENDOR signal, arises from the selected molecular orientations associated with the curve on the unit sphere, S, comprising points for which the orientation dependent spectroscopic splitting factor, g = g(B, @), has a fixed value defined by the strength of the observing field: gmi, < g = hv/@& < g,,,. H’owever, although g is constant over the locus of points, S, in general the angledependent hyperfine coupling, A = A(& 4), is not, and the ENDOR pattern in general is more complex than a single crystal-like spectrum. The net ENDOR intensity at radiofrequency, Y, is determined by the sum of the probabilities that the
Factors influencing the stabilization of Ni+ in perovskite-related oxides

Abstract With an objective to identify the factors influencing the stabilization of the unusual valence state Ni + in perovskite-related oxides, the reduction of the Ruddlesden–Popper series precursors A n +1 Ni n O 3 n +1 ( A =lanthanide and alkaline earth and n =1, 2, and 3) containing the Ni 2+/3+ or Ni 3+/4+ couple has been investigated systematically. La 2− x Sr x NiO 3+ δ , Ln 3 Ni 2 O 6+ δ ( Ln =lanthanide), and Ln 4 Ni 3 O 8 oxides containing the Ni +/2+ couple have been obtained by a reduction of, respectively, La 2− x Sr x NiO 4 , Ln 3 Ni 2 O 7 , and Ln 4 Ni 3 O 10 with dilute hydrogen over a narrow range of temperature. During the reduction process, oxygen atoms are removed from the NiO 2 planes of La 2− x Sr x NiO 4 to give orthorhombic La 2− x Sr x NiO 3+ δ , but from the rock salt planes present in between the NiO 2 planes of Ln 3 Ni 2 O 7 and Ln 4 Ni 3 O 10 to give tetragonal Ln 3 Ni 2 O 6+ δ and Ln 4 Ni 3 O 8 , respectively. Bond length matching between the stretched Ni + –O and A –O bonds to minimize the internal stresses and coordination preference and size of the A cations are found to play an important role in accessing Ni + . Although the Ni +/2+ couple is isoelectronic with the Cu 2+/3+ couple in copper oxide superconductors, the Ni +/2+ oxides exhibit localized semiconducting properties due to a larger charge transfer gap.
ROLE OF THE PLASMA CORTICOSTERONE SURGE IN THE PRECOCIOUS ENHANCEMENT OF FRUCTOSE UPTAKE IN WEANING RATS. † 729

ROLE OF THE PLASMA CORTICOSTERONE SURGE IN THE PRECOCIOUS ENHANCEMENT OF FRUCTOSE UPTAKE IN WEANING RATS. † 729
MALIGNANT MELANOMA IN RENAL-TRANSPLANT RECIPIENTS

14 patients who developed cutaneous malignant melanoma (CMM) after renal transplantation were studied. Histological review of the primary melanomas revealed that all 10 evaluable patients had a precursor naevus from which the CMM arose, 7 of which were dysplastic, and that 13 of the 14 patients had an abnormal host response to the tumour, characterised by absence of the usual lymphocyte/ macrophage infiltrate. These observations suggest that CMM in renal-transplant recipients evolves from precursor naevi in immunosuppressed patients who are unable to mount an appropriate cellular immune response to neoplastic cells. The clinical detection of dysplastic naevi offers an opportunity to identify in advance those immunosuppressed patients who are prone to melanoma and to modify their medical management accordingly.
Seasonal relationship between gonadotropin, growth hormone, and estrogen receptor mRNA expression in the pituitary gland of largemouth bass

Abstract The objectives of this study were to investigate the seasonal changes in pituitary gonadotropins, growth hormone (GH), and estrogen receptor (ER) isoform mRNA in wild female and male largemouth bass (LMB) ( Micropterus salmoides ) from an unpolluted habitat to better understand reproductive physiology in this ecologically important species. Female pituitary luteinizing hormone (LH) β subunit and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) β subunit mRNA showed significant seasonal variation with levels peaking from January to April and were lowest from May to August. Male LMB showed more variation in gonadotropin subunit expression from month to month. Females had approximately 2–3 times higher gonadotropin mRNA levels in the pituitary when compared to males. All three gonadotropin mRNAs in females were positively correlated to gonadosomatic index (GSI), but only LHβ mRNA was correlated to GSI in males. Gonadotropin mRNA expression also increased with increasing oocyte and sperm maturation. Gonadotropin β subunit mRNA expression was positively correlated to GH mRNA in both sexes. The expression of all three ER isoforms was significantly correlated to each other in both sexes. The concurrent increase in all three ER mRNA isoforms with increasing gonadotropin mRNA in females and males suggests a prominent role for E2 feedback on pituitary gonadotropin synthesis in both sexes and that each of the three ER isoforms are likely to play a role in the pituitary during teleost reproduction.
THE CRYSTAL STRUCTURE OF COBALTARTHURITE FROM THE BOU AZZER DISTRICT, MOROCCO: THE LOCATION OF HYDROGEN ATOMS IN THE ARTHURITE STRUCTURE-TYPE

The crystal structure of cobaltarthurite, ideally Co2+Fe3+2(AsO4)2(OH)2·4H2O, monoclinic, P 21/ c , a 10.2635(9), b 9.7028(8), c 5.5711(5) A, β 94.2070(10)°, from Khder, Bou Azzer district, Morocco, has been refined to R 1 = 1.8%, wR 2 = 6.4% using1343 unique [ F o > 4σ ( F o)] reflections collected with a Bruker 1K SMART Platform CCD diffractometer and Mo K α radiation. This is the best determination of the structure of an arthurite-group mineral yet obtained, and for the first time has allowed the determination of hydrogen positions. The hydrogen bonding scheme proposed in previous studies on arthurite-group minerals is confirmed with one change.
Assessing the Relative Importance of Inputs to a Production Function: Getting on Base Versus Hitting for Power

Since the publication of Michael Lewis's book, Moneyball, there has been a commonly held belief that getting on-base percentage (OBP) is more important in run production than hitting for power slugging percentage (SLG). Implicit in that conclusion is an assumption that OBP and SLG are drawn from similar distributions. The author finds, however, that they are drawn from meaningfully different distributions. Controlling for those differences, the author finds no evidence that OBP is more important in run production than SLG. In fact, the author finds that from 1980 to 2007 SLG was more important in run production than OBP.
Tissue concentrations of somatomedin C: further evidence for multiple sites of synthesis and paracrine or autocrine mechanisms of action

Abstract We have validated a method for extracting and measuring the tissue content of somatomedin C (Sm-C)/insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I), a growth-hormone-dependent, growth-promoting peptide. The Sm-C content of tissue extracts was strongly growth-hormone dependent because most of the tissues studied from hypophysectomized rats contained significantly less Sm-C than normal tissues. The intraperitoneal administration of ovine growth hormone (oGH) to hypophysectomized rats caused tissue extractable Sm-C to increase in kidney, liver, lung, heart, and testes. Tissue Sm-C responses to oGH were maximal after 12 hr, 6 hr before the maximal increment in serum. In liver and lung, the tissue Sm-C response to various doses of oGH fit linear regression models, and the doses of oGH needed to increase the Sm-C are in the range of those required to increase protein synthesis. Although these results do not exclude the possibility that the somatomedins act by hormone-like endocrine mechanisms, they add support to the concept that these peptides act through autocrine or paracrine mechanisms, being produced at multiple sites and acting at or near their sites of production.
HYPERMEDIA NAVIGATION PROFILES: COGNITIVE CHARACTERISTICS AND INFORMATION PROCESSING STRATEGIES

This study provides insights about how learning with hypermedia is mediated by system design and learner cognition. Videotaped observations were made of seventh and eleventh grade students using a commercially produced instructional hypermedia system. Analysis revealed differences among students in the paths taken, the type of nodes visited, the amount of time spent at each node, and think-aloud verbalizations. Three profiles of hypermedia navigation emerged from the data with each style characterized by a distinct set of information processing strategies. Analysis of the characteristics of the learners revealed that the students within each profile group had similar levels of prior knowledge, need for cognition, and self-efficacy. Studentgenerated concept maps appeared to be influenced by both the organization of knowledge within the system and navigation performance. Implications related to the design and use of hypermedia systems are considered. Currently, hypermedia systems containing curriculum-based content are found in classrooms at all educational levels. Although hypermedia learning environments may be designed inappropriately for some learners and some content [l-31, they are increasingly available and with the inclusion of advanced multimedia features have high levels of visual appeal. As this type of instructional material finds its way into classrooms, a question of importance is how learners navigate through these systems and how they acquire knowledge from them [4,5]. The importance of not separating the development and application of these systems from theories of cognition and instruction has been emphasized [3]. In hypermedia, information is organized as a directed graph consisting of information nodes which can have one or more out-going links that connect to associated destination nodes [6]. The nodes may represent knowledge in a variety 189
Modified atmosphere packaging to extend the shelf life of tomatoes

An experimental retail packaging system was used to compare the atmospheric com-position and relative humidity which developed within packs sealed with a range of plastic films with different permeability properties, and to study the effects of these conditions on the rate of ripening (as indicated by colour change) and sensory quality of tomatoes. In packs sealed with several polyvinylchloride (PVC) films or with K-resin (a butadiene-styrene copolymer), an atmosphere containing 3–9% CO2+3−9% 02 developed within circa 3–4 days at 10 or 12.5°C. Ripening of part ripe fruit was retarded, but continued normally after the packs were perforated, with no obvious adverse effects on the smell, flavour or texture of the fruit. In packs sealed with less permeable films (e.g. cellulose acetate), the internal atmosphere equilibrated to 10–18% CO2+ < 2% O2, resulting in complete inhibition of ripening, a high incidence of rotting and tainting of the fruit. Very high (98% or above) relative humidity within sealed packs also encouraged fungal spoilage. The possible commercial applications and benefits of this type of modified atmosphere (MA) packaging are discussed.
Mind, brain, and personality disorders.

OBJECTIVE: The use of the terms “mind” and “brain” in psychiatry is often associated with a set of polarities. Concepts such as environment, psychosocial, and psychotherapy are linked with “mind,” while genes, biology, and medication are often associated with “brain.” The author examines these dichotomies as they apply to personality disorders. METHOD: Research on antisocial and borderline personality disorders that is relevant to these dichotomies is evaluated. The implications of the findings for the understanding of pathogenesis and treatment are reconsidered. RESULTS: In the clinical setting, it is problematic to lump together terms such as “genes,” “brain,” and “biological” as though they are separate and distinct from terms such as “environment,” “mind,” and “psychosocial.” These dichotomies are problematic, because genes and environment are inextricably intertwined in the pathogenesis of personality disorders, psychosocial experiences may result in permanent changes in the brain, and psychotherapy ...
Na+-Ca2+ Exchange Current and Submembrane [Ca2+] During the Cardiac Action Potential

Na(+)-Ca(2+) exchange (NCX) is crucial in the regulation of [Ca(2+)](i) and cardiac contractility, but key details of its dynamic function during the heartbeat are not known. In the present study, we assess how NCX current (I(NCX)) varies during a rabbit ventricular action potential (AP). First, we measured the steady-state voltage and [Ca(2+)](i) dependence of I(NCX) under conditions when [Ca(2+)](i) was heavily buffered. We then used this relationship to infer the submembrane [Ca(2+)](i) ([Ca(2+)](sm)) sensed by NCX during a normal AP and [Ca(2+)](i) transient (when the AP was interrupted to produce an I(NCX) tail current). The [Ca(2+)](i) dependence of I(NCX) at -90 mV allowed us to convert the peak inward I(NCX) tail currents to [Ca(2+)](sm). Peak [Ca(2+)](sm) measured via this technique was >3.2 micromol/L within < 32 ms of the AP upstroke (versus peak [Ca(2+)](i) of 1.1 micromol/L at 81 ms measured with the global Ca(2+) indicator indo-1). The voltage and [Ca(2+)](sm) dependence of I(NCX) allowed us to infer I(NCX) during the normal AP and Ca(2+) transient. The early rise in [Ca(2+)](sm) causes I(NCX) to be inward for the majority of the AP. Thus, little Ca(2+) influx via NCX is expected under physiological conditions, but this can differ among species and in pathophysiological conditions.
An Asynchronous Parallel Algorithm for Symbolic Grouping Operations in Vision

Symbolic grouping problems are key intermediate-level vision problems. These problems are characterized by uneven distribution of symbolic features among the processors, unbalanced workload, and irregular inter-processor data dependencies caused by the input image. In this paper, we propose an asynchronous algorithm for solving symbolic grouping problems on distributed memory machines. The algorithm balances the workload and overlaps communication with computation by maintaining algorithmic threads in each processor. To illustrate our ideas, perceptual grouping operations used in an integrated vision system for building detection are used as examples. Our experimental results show that, given 7825 line segments extracted from a 1K × 1K image, the line grouping operation can be performed in 0.294 seconds on a T3D having 64 processors. A serial implementation takes 5.696 seconds on a single processor of T3D. The implementation was performed using MPI and C and is portable.
Reactivity of ferritin and the structure of ferritin-derived ferrihydrite

Abstract Background In nature or in the laboratory, the roughly spherical interior of the ferritin protein is well suited for the formation and storage of a variety of nanosized metal oxy-hydroxide compounds which hold promise for a range of applications. However, the linkages between ferritin reactivity and the structure and physicochemical properties of the nanoparticle core, either native or reconstituted, remain only partly understood. Scope of review Here we review studies, including those from our laboratory, which have investigated the structure of ferritin-derived ferrihydrite and reactivity of ferritin, both native and reconstituted. Selected proposed structure models for ferrihydrite are discussed along with the structural and genetic relationships that exist among several different forms of ferrihydrite. With regard to reactivity, the review will emphasize studies that have investigated the (photo)reactivity of ferritin and ferritin-derived materials with environmentally relevant gaseous and aqueous species. Major conclusions The inorganic core formed from apoferritin reconstituted with varied amounts of Fe has the same structural topology as the inorganically derived ferrihydrite that is an important component of many environmental and soil systems. Reactivity of ferritin toward aqueous species resulting from the photoexcitation of the inorganic core of the protein shows promise for driving redox reactions relevant to environmental chemistry. General significance Ferritin-derived ferrihydrite is effectively maintained in a relatively unaggregated state, which improves reactivity and opens the possibility of future applications in environmental remediation. Advances in our understanding of the structure, composition, and disorder in synthetic, inorganically derived ferrihydrite are shedding new light on the reactivity and stability of ferrihydrite derived artificially from ferritin.
Improving the stiffness of commingled thermoplastics

One of the limitations of commingled recycled plastics is their low flexural modulus, resulting from both the linear nature of thermoplastics and the incompatibility of the polymer phases. The goal of this study was to increase the flexural modulus of commingled recycled plastics by the addition of small amounts of polyester that acted both as a compatibilizer and a crosslinking agent. It was found that the increase in flexural modulus was caused by the unsaturated polyester acting as a filler, the improvement in compatibility of the phases, and the crosslinking of the commingled plastics. The increase was offset somewhat by a decrease in crystallinity of the phases.
Hysteresis Zone or Locus-Aerodynamic of Bulbous Based Bodies at Low Speeds

Experimental data are presented which seem to suggest that a well-defined hysteresis locus on bulbous based bodies at low speeds does not exist. Instead, if the experiment is repeated several times, the entire hysteresis region seems to fill with data rather than trace out a specific hysteresis locus. Data obtained on an oscillating model even at low reduced frequencies may be well defined but when applied to arbitrary motion lead to less accurate results than desired.
DOE/Opt: a system for design of experiments, response surface modeling, and optimization using process and device simulation

Rapid modeling and optimization of manufacturing processes, devices, and circuits are required to support modern integrated circuit technology development and yield improvement. We have prototyped and applied an integrated system, called DOE/Opt, for performing Design of Experiments (DOE), Response Surface Modeling (RSM), and Optimization (Opt). The system to be modeled and optimized can be either physical or simulation based. Within the DOE/Opt system, coupling to external simulation or experimental tools is achieved via an embedded extension language based on Tcl. The external problem then appears to DOE/Opt as a model with user defined inputs and outputs. DOE/Opt is used to generate splits for experiments, to dynamically build and evaluate regression models from experimental runs, and to perform nonlinear constrained optimizations using either regression models or embedded executions. The intermediate regression modeling can appreciably accelerate the optimization task when simulation or physical experiments are expensive. The primary application of DOE/Opt has been to process optimization using coupled process and device simulation. DOE/Opt has also been applied to process and device simulator tuning, and to aid in device characterization. Such a DOE/Opt system is expected to augment the use of TCAD tools and to utilize data collected by CIM systems in support of process synthesis. We have demonstrated the application of the system to process parameter determination, simulator tuning, process control modeling, and statistical process optimization. We are extending the system to more fully support emerging device design and process synthesis methodologies. >
Young's modulus measurements of soft tissues with application to elasticity imaging

Ultrasound elasticity imaging is a promising method that may eventually allow early detection of many tissue pathologies. However, before elasticity imaging can be applied to its numerous potential clinical applications, the quantitative accuracy of tissue elasticity measurements must be established. Simple 1-D ultrasound elasticity measurements were performed on muscle and liver and compared with independent and established mechanical measurements to investigate both the accuracy and consistency of ultrasound elasticity measurements. In addition, some interesting properties of soft tissue and aspects of the measurement process which should be considered in elasticity measurements are discussed.
Measuring statistical agreement between four point of care (POC) lactate meters and a laboratory blood analyzer in cats.

The use of blood lactate concentrations as a prognostic indicator and therapeutic gauge in feline medicine has been hindered by the inability to obtain values in a timely manner with minimal quantities of blood. Recently, hand-held point-of-care (POC) lactate meters have become commercially available. The objective of this prospective study was to determine if lactate values produced by three commercially available and one medical grade POC meter were in agreement with a laboratory blood analyzer. Blood samples from 47 cats were collected on presentation to an emergency service and processed on four POC meters and a Stat Profile Critical Care Xpress blood analyzer. The results were analyzed using the Bland–Altman method. The blood lactate values produced by the hospital grade POC meter and one of the commercially POC meters were in good agreement with the Critical Care Xpress blood analyzer. Other commercially available POC meters produced acceptable agreement.
Can Computers Master the Art of Communication?: A Focus on Visual Analytics

Visual analytics seeks to conduct a discourse with the user through images, to stimulate curiosity and a penchant to decipher the unknown. The computer supports the user in this interactive analytical reasoning, constructing a formal model of the given data, with the end product being formatted knowledge constituting insight. Computers, through visualization, have access to a rich repertoire of communication patterns. Although more research is necessary until a computer can truly master the art of communication, we believe that the growing ease of online user studies will greatly facilitate the training required.