cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The role of aggregation in the response of Mexican bean beetles to host-plant density

According to the resource concentration hypothesis, specialized insect herbivores predominantly attack host plants growing in pure, large, and/or dense stands because they are more likely to find and less likely to leave such stands. This study examines movement of a herbivorous beetle, Epilachna varivestis, in an attempt to understand why the beetle's numbers per plant increase with plant density. I studied immigration into, emigration from, and movement within host patches by following movements of individually marked beetles, while experimentally varying host-plant density. In order to study the effect of conspecifics on movement, I varied the number of beetles released on the same plant.
Dual task cost of walking is related to fall risk in persons with multiple sclerosis

Persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) commonly have walking and cognitive impairments. While walking with a simultaneous cognitive task, persons with MS experience a greater decline in walking performance than healthy controls. This change in performance is termed dual task cost or dual task interference and has been associated with fall risk in older adults. We examined whether dual task cost during walking was related to fall risk in persons with MS. Thirty-three ambulatory persons with MS performed walking tasks with and without a concurrent cognitive task (dual task condition) as well as underwent a fall risk assessment. Dual task cost was operationalized as the percent change in velocity from normal walking conditions to dual task walking conditions. Fall risk was quantified using the Physiological Profile Assessment. A Spearman correlation analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between dual task cost of walking velocity and fall risk as well as dual task cost of stride length and fall risk. Overall, the findings indicate that dual task cost is associated with fall risk and may be an important target for falls prevention strategies.
Mechanism and modeling of transverse cracking development in continuously reinforced concrete pavement

The relationship between the initiation and spacing of transverse cracking in continuously reinforced concrete pavement (CRCP) and transverse steel reinforcement has been investigated. Field evaluations of CRCP test sections included surface condition inspection using digital video, ground penetrating radar (GPR) survey to determine the relative location of transverse bars with respect to transverse cracks, falling weight deflectometer (FWD) testing to evaluate the crack load transfer efficiency (LTE), and ground-truth coring. Field-testing results suggested that the mean crack spacing was identical to the design spacing of transverse steel bars. A three-dimensional finite element (FE) model was then developed to evaluate the mechanisms that contribute to the initiation of transverse cracking in CRCP. Results of the FE model indicated that two controlling mechanisms may contribute to the initiation of transverse cracking in CRCP: build-up of uniform compressive longitudinal stress at the pavement surface ...
Parameter identification in radial flow

Abstract The classical inverse parameter identification problem is solved using an indirect method. This method is based on the minimization of an objective function or error criterion consisting of three parts: 1) least-squares error of head residuals; 2) prior information of flow parameters; and 3) regularization. An adjoint equation is incorporated into the method to eliminate the need to differentiate the heads with respect to the parameters being identified, increasing the stability of the algorithm. This method is applied to a radial coordinate system used for describing an anisotropic confined aquifer. A variable implicit finite difference method is used for predicting hydraulic heads given a continuous set of flow parameters. The method is tested using synthetic data and is found to give estimates which are both stable and unique.
A Supramolecular Sorting Hat: Stereocontrol in Metal-Ligand Self-Assembly by Complementary Hydrogen Bonding

A combination of self-complementary hydrogen bonding and metal-ligand interactions allows stereocontrol in the self-assembly of prochiral ligand scaffolds. A unique, non-tetrahedral M4L6 structure is observed upon multicomponent self-assembly of 2,7-diaminofluorenol with 2-formylpyridine and Fe(ClO4)2. The stereochemical outcome of the assembly is controlled by self-complementary hydrogen bonding between both individual ligands and a suitably sized counterion as template. This hydrogen-bonding-mediated stereoselective metal-ligand assembly allows the controlled formation of nonsymmetric discrete cage structures from previously unexploited ligand scaffolds.
The Utility of Weather Forecasts to the Raisin Industry

Abstract It is not possible to state at present just how much economic value either is derived or could be derived from present weather forecasts. It is, however, possible to analyze the weather factors that affect an industry. In this paper, the practices of the raisin-drying industry are found to agree with a theoretical optimum derived from climatological data. The paper goes on to show that weather forecasts properly tailored to this industry may be usable in maximizing gains and minimizing losses.
A phenomenological model of EEG based on the dynamics of a stochastic Duffing-van der Pol oscillator network

Abstract In this work, we propose a novel phenomenological model of the EEG signal based on the dynamics of a coupled Duffing-van der Pol oscillator network. An optimization scheme is adopted to match data generated from the model with clinically obtained EEG data from subjects under resting eyes-open (EO) and eyes-closed (EC) conditions. It is shown that a coupled system of two Duffing-van der Pol oscillators with optimized parameters yields signals with characteristics that match those of the EEG in both the EO and EC cases. The results, which are reinforced using statistical analysis, show that the EEG recordings under EC and EO resting conditions are clearly distinct realizations of the same underlying model occurring due to parameter variations with qualitatively different nonlinear dynamic characteristics. In addition, the interplay between noise and nonlinearity is addressed and it is shown that, for appropriately chosen values of noise intensity in the model, very good agreement exists between the model output and the EEG in terms of the power spectrum as well as Shannon entropy. In summary, the results establish that an appropriately tuned stochastic coupled nonlinear oscillator network such as the Duffing-van der Pol system could provide a useful framework for modeling and analysis of the EEG signal. In turn, design of algorithms based on the framework has the potential to positively impact the development of novel diagnostic strategies for brain injuries and disorders.
Laughing, Smiling, and Talking: Relation to Sleeping and Social Context in Humans

The propabilities of laughing, smiling, or talking during a given hour and in various social environments were investigated by having undergraduate college students record their performance of these activitics in a log book during a one-week period. All three activities were least likely to occur during the hours immediately before bedtime and after waking and were most frequent in social situations. Smiles and laughs, like talking, were performed primarily during social encounters and were often part of verbal and nonverbal conversations. Because laughing and smiling are phasic social acts, they are of limited value as indices of ongoing (tonic) emotional state. The role of laughing, smiling, and talking in communication, the production of mood, and social bonding is considered.
Suicidality Correlates in Mexican American Teens

This study was conducted to determine the relationships between suicidality and life stress, coping, depression, and family dysfunction in Mexican American teens. The research question was: What are the magnitude of the relationships between suicidality and life stress, coping, depression, and family dysfunction in Mexican American teenagers? The investigators discuss the findings of the study from the perspective of the Mexican American culture, followed by specific conclusions and recommendations drawn from the results of the study. In this article, the term teen is used interchangeably with the terms teenager, youth, and adolescent; suicidality is used interchangeably with suicide risk.
Phase II trial of pralatrexate (10-propargyl-10-deazaaminopterin, PDX) in patients with unresectable malignant pleural mesothelioma.

Background: Several previous clinical trials have shown that malignant pleural mesothelioma is responsive to antifolates. The dihydrofolate reductase inhibitor, pralatrexate, has a favorable toxicity profile, primarily limited to stomatitis, and has demonstrated activity in patients with non-small cell lung cancer. In mesothelioma cell lines and xenografts, pralatrexate demonstrated significant antitumor activity. Methods: We conducted this phase II study to determine the response rate of malignant pleural mesothelioma to pralatrexate at a dose of 135 mg/m 2 IV every 2 weeks. After a protocol amendment, patients were supplemented with vitamin B 12 and folic acid at the time of starting therapy. Results: A total of 16 assessable patients were enrolled. No complete or partial responses were observed. Two patients with epithelioid histology had minor responses. Three other patients remained on study with stable disease for 9, 9, and 48 months. The median time to progression was 3 months. The overall median survival time was 7 months (95% confidence interval: 3.2–16.2 months) and the one-year survival was 31% (95% confidence interval: 15%–65%). Three patients (19%) had grade 2 stomatitis, eight (50%) had grade 3, and one (6%) had grade 4. Conclusions: With this particular dose and schedule, pralatrexate as a single agent had no activity in malignant pleural mesothelioma.
Field work with the computer: Criteria for assessing systems

Computers, both large and small, can be of great assistance to a field worker. This assistance falls mainly in the area of relieving the field worker from tedious mechanical phases such as typing, sorting, and retrieving information. An examination of field work methods identifies issues and problems which must be addressed by any system for undertaking field work. A rationale for a “loose and inclusive” (as opposed to an exhaustive and mutually exclusive) coding system is presented. Efficiency, confidentiality, data reduction, and flexibility of testing propositions are discussed as criteria for assessing any system which facilitates field work. The paper concludes by contrasting the methods previously used to collect data, reduce its bulk, code, and retrieve information with what is possible with today's computer hardware and software, and with what will be possible in the near future.
Synthesis and self‐assembly of thymine‐ and adenine‐containing homopolymers and diblock copolymers

Atom transfer radical polymerizations (ATRPs) of 1-(4-methacryloyloxy-benzyl)thymine (MAT) and 9-(2-methacryloyloxyethyl)adenine (MAA) were conducted for the synthesis of DNA-base functionalized polymers. The association equilibrium constant Kasso between MAT and MAA and the complexation equilibrium constant Kcomp between the corresponding polymers PMAT and PMAA were determined. A zipper-like diblock copolymer, PMAT-b-PMAA, was prepared by anchoring the PMAT and PMAA blocks on the ortho-positions of a pyridine ring via a successive two-step ATRP. Dynamic light scattering and atom force microscopy confirmed that the block copolymer had a V-shaped configuration in dimethylsulfoxide/N,N-dimethylformamide. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 5995–6006, 2006
Approaches to novel AB heteroaromatic polyamides based on cyanoimidazoles

The synthesis of several AB monomers based on 2-amino-4,5-dicyanoimidazole is reported. Poly(imidazoleamide)s (PIAs) were prepared by polycondensation of 2-amino-4-cyano-1-methyl-4- or 2-amino-5-cyano-1-methyl-4-imidazoylchloride hydrochloride in amide solvents. A copolyamide consisting of both regioisomers was also prepared. PIAs were red to tan which suggest conjugation along the polymer backbone. Their solubility varied from amide solvents to sulfuric acid depending on the regioisomeric structure and molecular weight. The polymers were stable in excess of 300°C under air or nitrogen atmosphere
The effects of aging on the hepatic microsomal mixed-function oxidase system of male and female monkeys

Studies were conducted to determine the effects of aging on certain biochemical and biophysical properties of the hepatic microsomes and on the kinetic properties of a constituent drug-metabolizing enzyme and a heme protein in a nonhuman primate. Outbred male and female rhesus monkeys (Macaque mulatta) ranging in age from 1 to 25 years were employed as animal models. There was considerable individual variability, but no significant age or sex-related changes in (1) the concentration of microsomal protein or (2) the content of the cytochromes P-450. Although the oldest animals examined for NADPH cytochrome c (P-450) reductase activity were only 19 years of age, the specific activity of this important enzyme increased rather than decreased during aging. There were only minor changes in the total phospholipid content of the microsomes and none in the distribution profile of the major phospholipid classes. However, the microsomal cholesterol content increased sufficiently to cause a rise in the cholesterol/phospholipid ratio between 16 and 25 years of age. The fluidity of the membrane lipid domain exhibited a concomitant decline as measured by electron spin resonance spectroscopy. There was no apparent correlation between age-related changes in these physicochemical properties of the microsomes and the in vitro activities of the constituent drug-metabolizing enzymes or heme proteins. Furthermore, the marked disparities between the data obtained in inbred male rodents and those from outbred primates suggest that the extrapolation of the former to humans is of questionable value with respect to liver drug metabolism.
Therapeutic Apheresis for Renal Disorders

Many primary renal diseases are associated with either antibody deposition within the glomerulus or an antibody associated autoimmunity, as may be seen with certain vasculitidies. Other immunoglobulins may be nephrotoxic or glomerulopathic; such may be the case with myeloma related light chains or cryoglobulins. Given the rapid removal of immunoglobulins by therapeutic plasma exchange, this modality has been considered an appealing management option in the treatment of these autoimmune related renal diseases. Although not classically considered as autoimmune diseases, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and hemolytic uremic syndrome are related syndromes which often involve the kidneys. In many cases therapeutic plasma exchange has been found to be a useful treatment modality for these microangiopathic hemolytic anemias. This paper will provide a concise review of the renal indications for therapeutic plasma exchange.
Mcbirneyite, Cu3(VO4)2, a new sublimate mineral from the fumaroles of Izalco volcano, El Salvador

Abstract Mcbirneyite, Cu3(VO4)2, a new copper vanadate mineral, has been discovered in the summit crater fumaroles of Izalco volcano, El Salvador. The mineral formed as a sublimate from the volcanic gases and is associated with stoiberite, fingerite, ziesite, euchlorine and thenardite. Mcbirneyite is the naturally occurring analog of synthetic Cu3V2O8. Mcbirneyite is triclinic, P 1 , a=5.3418(9) A, b=6.5100(8) A, c=5.1798(7) A, α=88.61(1)°, β=68.11(1)°, γ=69.22(1)°. The five most intense lines in the diffraction pattern are 4.01 (80; 01 1 ), 3.12 (100; 120), 2.82 (100; 10 1 ), 2.641 (80; 211) and 2.428 A (80; 021). The crystal structure of the mineral has been determined; the independent structure solution demonstrates that mcbirneyite is isostructural with stranskiite, CuZn2 (AsO4)2, and a synthetic Cu phosphate, Cu3(PO4)2. The structure is constructed of (1 1 0) layers of Cu atoms in square-planar and square-based pyramidal coordination with oxygen; adjacent layers are linked by isolated VO4 tetrahedra. Mcbirneyite is black with a metallic luster. The calculated density (Z=1) is 4.50 g cm−3. The mineral is opaque to transmitted light; in reflected light in air the mineral is medium-dark gray and nonpleochroic, with reflectance values as follows: 470 nm, 18.5%; 546 nm, 17.5%; 589 nm, 18.7%; 650 nm, 20.6%. The mineral is named in honor of Alexander R. McBirney, Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Volcanology and Geothermal Research.
Physiological correlation between lactate dehydrogenase genotype and haemoglobin function in killifish.

ERYTHROCYTE organic phosphate concentration is known to be an heritable trait in both humans and rats1–3. In humans this trait has been correlated with genetic variability of both pyruvate kinase and hexokinase2. However, similar phenomena have not been reported in lower vertebrates. During our studies on the allosteric regulation of fish haemoglobins by ATP (ref. 4) we observed significant variability in red cell ATP concentrations among individuals of the killifish Fundulus heteroclitus, and wondered whether this variability in organic phosphate could be the result of a genetic component. Consequently, we analysed F. heteroclitus for red cell ATP, concomitantly screening for enzyme variants. We report here that not only are ATP levels under genetic control, but they are also highly correlated with lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) phenotype. To our knowledge, this is the first such correlation reported. Moreover, as ATP is the major allosteric modifier of F. heteroclitus haemoglobin–oxygen affinity5,6, this study provides a basis for an association between LDH and the fish's external environment through the physiological role of haemoglobin at the organism–environment interface.
Fine-needle aspiration of the macrofollicular and microfollicular subtypes of the follicular variant of papillary carcinoma of the thyroid

BACKGROUND The follicular variant of papillary carcinoma of the thyroid (FVPCT) is being increasingly diagnosed on excised thyroid nodules. However, the fine-needle aspiration (FNA) and intraoperative diagnosis is often that of a follicular neoplasm, especially in papillary carcinomas with a pure or predominantly follicular pattern. The authors undertook this study in an attempt to refine the cytologic criteria for the diagnosis of FVPCT. METHODS The authors reviewed 16 cases with cytologic diagnoses of FVPCT (9 cases), suspicious for FVPCT (6 cases), or cellular adenomatoid nodule (1 case) based on aspirates stained with Papanicolaou stain or a Giemsa-type stain (Diff-Quik). All cases had been confirmed histologically as pure or predominantly (>80%) FVPCT in 13 cases and as follicular adenoma in 3 cases. Cytologic features evaluated included cellularity, cell arrangement, nuclear features, cytoplasm, and colloid. RESULTS Twelve of 13 cases of FVPCT were correctly diagnosed cytologically. Features that proved useful in the diagnosis of FVPCT were the concomitant and conspicuous presence of ovoid or pear-shaped nuclei with hypochromasia and nuclear grooves. Soft features included nuclear overlap and eccentric, small nucleoli. Cytoplasmic features were not useful in making this diagnosis. Based on cell arrangement and colloid, it was possible to predict microfollicular and macrofollicular variants. The microfollicular subtype showed rosettes or microfollicles and scant, thick colloid in casts and blobs. The macrofollicular subtype had predominantly sheets or spherules with abundant, thick background colloid. Nuclear pseudoinclusions and psammoma bodies were absent and multinucleated giant cells rarely found. Pitfalls leading to a "false-positive" FVPCT diagnosis included oncocytic adenoma (in 2 cases) and atypical adenoma (in 1 case). A cytologic diagnosis of cellular adenomatoid nodule was made in one case of macrofollicular FVPCT. CONCLUSIONS The authors present improved cytologic criteria for the diagnosis of pure FVPCT on smears stained with Papanicolaou stain or Diff-Quik, and they elaborate on the clues and pitfalls associated with this diagnosis. The cytologic features of the macrofollicular and microfollicular subtypes of FVPCT are also described. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 1998;84:235-244. © 1998 American Cancer Society.
THE VASCULAR ANATOMY OF THE FLOWER IN THE PAPILIONACEOUS LEGUMINOSAE. I

FLORAL NECTARIES.-A study of floral nectaries is not only a problem of descriptive nomenclature; it is a problem of morphological interpretation as well. The terms "nectary," " floral nectary," " nuptial nectary," and "disc " have been used by many authors to describe those parts of the flower which secrete nectar (Feldhofen, 1933). Floral nectaries have never had a precise morphological status. All the usual floral parts, such as calyx, corolla, stamens, pistil, receptacle, etc., may thus bear or represent nectaries. The nomenclature of floral nectaries has long been confused. Adanson (1753) confounded the problem by proposing the term " disc " to be used to designate any floral parts which secrete nectar. To Adanson, the disc was a taxonomic-physiologic entity, not a unit of morphology. It is quite easy to see how such a loosely defined term has evolved into an empty descriptive phrase. De Candolle (1827) remarked that there was scarcely a term which had been subjected to more morphological abuse than the term " nectary." Clos (1854) decried the slipshod use of disc, torus, and nectary as morphological terms and would drop them completely because of their obscure meanings. Bentham and Hooker (1862) in the Genera Plantarum perpetuated the nebulous concept in their class Disciflorae. Such variability as is displayed by those structures described variously as floral nectaries or as discs has brought forth equally varied explanations of their fundamental nature. The interpretation of floral nectaries by the earlier botanists has been well summarized by Kurr (1832). Even at that early time diverse opinions had accumulated concerning the morphological nature of these organs. According to Kurr, Linnaeus believed that floral nectaries were part of the corolla, and Boehmer thought them to be accidental parts, " illa pars floris accidentalis." De Candolle (1825) adopted the view that certain nectaries represented reduced stamens. Kurr himself expounded the most exact view yet presented: that floral nectaries might be developed from the usual floral parts of normal, structure and function as well as from sterilized sporophylls or reduced perianth parts. This is essentially the opinion held by most morphologists at the present time. In contrast to the theory that floral nectaries represent definite floral organs in somewhat changed form, the organographers have rather generally stated that the disc is merely a hypogynous or perigynous receptacular emergence (Goebel, 1887; Gray, 1887). It is surprising to find that such excellent morphologists as Pax (1890), Van Tieghem (1891), and Velenovsky (1910) subscribed to this view. Van Tieghem stated definitely that the disc was not of the nature of an appendage, but only an outgrowth of the receptacle.
Algorithms for source‐to‐all maximum cost‐to‐time ratio problem in acyclic networks

The source-to-all maximum cost-to-time ratio problem is the problem of finding the maximum cost-to-time ratio path from a source node to every other node. The motivation comes from an application in large-scale linear programming. We present three algorithms for solving the problem. We give proofs of correctness and we analyze the running times. One of the algorithms is polynomial and the remaining two are pseudopolynomial. We present extensive computational results on several networks. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nitroxidergic neurons in rat nucleus tractus solitarii express vesicular glutamate transporter 3.

Abstract Earlier we reported that glutamate transporter (VGLUT) 2 and neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) are colocalized in some fibers and are present in apposing fibers in the nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS). Those findings provided anatomical support for a hypothesized physiological link between glutamate and nitric oxide (NO·) in the NTS. Recently a third class of VGLUT, VGLUT3, was identified, but its distribution in NTS and its anatomical relationship with nNOS have not been shown. In this study we tested the hypothesis that neurons and fibers containing VGLUT3 lie in close proximity to those containing nNOS and that both proteins colocalize in some neurons and fibers in the NTS. We perfused rats and obtained brain stem sections and nodose ganglion sections for immunofluorescent staining analyzed by confocal microscopy. The NTS contained moderate VGLUT3-immunoreactivity (IR), with the intermediate, medial and interstitial subnuclei containing higher VGLUT3-IR than other subnuclei. Although all three forms of VGLUT were present in the NTS, VGLUT3-IR was not colocalized with either VGLUT1-IR or VGLUT2-IR in either processes or cells in the brain stem. Cells and processes containing both VGLUT3-IR and nNOS-IR were noted in all NTS subnuclei and in the nodose ganglion. Triple immunofluorescent staining revealed that cells double-labeled for nNOS-IR and VGLUT3-IR were all additionally labeled for neuronal nuclear antigen (NeuN), a neuronal marker. These findings support our hypothesis that neurons and fibers containing VGLUT3 lie in close proximity to those containing nNOS and that both proteins colocalize in some neurons and fibers in the NTS.
The potassium-sensitivity of isolated embryonic heart cells increases with development.

Abstract Spontaneously beating myocardial cells isolated from the hearts of chick embryos aged 2–18 days were cultured in medium containing 1.3, 4.2, 8.1, or 12 mM K+. At all ages tested, the percentage of beating cells (% BC) was maximal at 1.3 mM K. In cultures from 2-to 4-day hearts, isolated pacemaker cells were relatively insensitive to the level of extracellular K-concentration (K0). In contrast, the activity of most of the cells from 7- to 18-day hearts was suppressed by high Ko. The first week of heart development, therefore, represents a period of transition from a state of K-insensitivity to one of greater sensitivity of cardiac pacemakers to the level of Ko. Differences in the kinetics of pacemaker-inhibition in response to a sudden increment of Ko were used as evidence for three subpopulations of spontaneously active cells: those in which spontaneous activity was immediately and permanently suppressed; those which stopped beating initially but gradually recovered; and those which were unaffected by an increment in Ko. The relative size of each of these subpopulations was found to change in a systematic way with embryonic age. It is suggested that the change from a state of K-resistance to K-sensitivity of the embryonic pacemakers results either from a change in ionic permselectivity of the pacemaker membranes, or from an alteration in the concentration of ions inside and outside the cells during early development.
POLARIZED MIXED HODGE-STRUCTURES AND THE LOCAL MONODROMY OF A VARIATION OF HODGE STRUCTURE

A variation of polarized Hodge structures on the complement of a divisor with normal crossings gives rise, locally (on the divisor) to a commuting set {Ni} of nilpotent endomorphisms of the vector space underlying the variation: the logarithms of the unipotent parts of the various Picard-Lefschetz transformations. These reflect properties of the singularities of the period map associated to the variation (cf. [5, 7, 9] and Sect. 3). For example, a variation depending on a single parameter defines asymptotically a mixed Hodge structure whose weight filtration is the monodromy weight filtration of the corresponding endomorphism N ([9, 11]). This paper is mainly concerned with the properties of the set {N/} arising in the several parameters case. In particular, Theorem 3.3 asserts that all the elements in the open polyhedral cone C spanned over R by the N,.'s, determine the same monodromy weight filtration. It also describes the relationship between this common filtration and those associated to the faces of the cone. This statement was conjectured by Deligne based on his analogous result ([4], 1.9.2) for the Q-cone associated to those variations which arise from families of polarized, non-singular algebraic varieties. In w 1 we discuss some general properties of commuting sets of nilpotent endomorphisms and their associated filtrations. Section2 focuses on the case when each element in such set defines in the sense of (2.4) a polarized mixed Hodge structure with a fixed Hodge filtration F (as is the case for the monodromy cone C of a variation). These conditions imply (cf. (2.16)) a generic uniqueness for the monodromy weight filtration. We also consider those pola-
Influence of Cephalosporin Antibiotics on Blood Coagulation and Platelet Function

Administration of cephalothin to normal volunteers in maximal doses of 300 mg/kg per day resulted in a combined defect of platelet function and blood coagulation. No such abnormalities were evident after infusion of cefazolin or cephapirin at a maximal dosage of 200 mg/kg per day. The observed thrombocytopathy was similar to but less severe than that induced by carbenicillin or ticarcillin and was not reflected by a prolonged bleeding time test or impaired prothrombin consumption. Moreover, it was not a consistent finding in those persons receiving cephalothin. A separate defect involving blood coagulation appeared to result from delayed fibrinogen-fibrin polymerization and was evidenced by extended values of the activated partial thromboplastin and thrombin time tests. It remains uncertain whether the abnormalities described may constitute clinically important hemostatic disorders in patients with normal renal function receiving large doses of cephalosporin antibiotics.
Effects of River Stage and Waste Water Discharges on the Unconfined Aquifer, Hanford, Washington

This study examined the effects of river stage and waste water discharge on the unconfined aquifer near the N nuclear reactor on the U.S. Department of Energy-operated Hanford site in Washington State. River levels were statistically correlated with water-level data from 12 wells. During the course of this study, water table elevations declined in the study area primarily as a result of a significant decrease in discharge to waste water disposal facilities, A minor contributing factor was the regional decline of the water table caused by decreasing waste water discharges upgradient of the study area. High-frequency river-level fluctuations (e.g., short-term daily fluctuations) had good correlation with water-level variations in a well approximately 750 feet inland. Low-frequency river-level fluctuations (e.g., long-term seasonal fluctuations) had good correlation with water-level variations in a well approximately 1000 feet from the river shore. Time lags and attenuation generally increased with distance from the river as expected, with the exception of two northern wells. These two wells were relatively more responsive to river-level fluctuations at a greater distance inland from the river. This suggests that hydraulic properties (e.g., hydraulic conductivity) are a control on the aquifer reponses. During peak river stage in June, the river level rose above water table elevations in several wells implying a temporary reversal in ground water flow direction near the river.
The Scanning Hot Probe Technique for Seebeck Coefficient Characterization

Highly efficient solid-state thermoelectric energy conversion requires materials with a large thermoelectric figure of merit Z=σα2 /κ where α=thermoelectric power, σ=electrical conductivity, and κ=thermal conductivity [1]. Engineering the electric and thermal transport in nanostructures has emerged as a candidate for factorial enhancements in the thermoelectric figure of merit, as compared with state of the art bulk thermoelectric materials.[2-5] Recent developments in thermoelectric materials are reviewed in Ref [4]. These studies have sparked a flurry of activity to produce nanostructures for thermoelectric applications.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Combined Deep microRNA and mRNA Sequencing Identifies Protective Transcriptomal Signature of Enhanced PI3Kα Signaling in Cardiac Hypertrophy

The perturbation of myocardial transcriptome homeostasis is the hallmark of pathological hypertrophy, underlying the maladaptive myocardial remodeling secondary to pathological stresses. Classic and novel therapeutics that provide beneficial effects against pathological remodeling likely impact myocardial transcriptome architecture, including miRNA and mRNA expression profiles. Microarray and PCR-based technologies, although employed extensively, cannot provide adequate sequence coverage or quantitative accuracy to test this hypothesis directly. The goal of this study was to develop and exploit next-generation sequencing approaches for comprehensive and quantitative analyses of myocardial miRNAs and mRNAs to test the hypothesis that augmented phosphoinositide-3-kinase-p110α (PI3Kα) signaling in the setting of pathological hypertrophy provides beneficial effects through remodeling of the myocardial transcriptome signature. In these studies, a molecular and bioinformatic pipeline permitting comprehensive analysis and quantification of myocardial miRNA and mRNA expression with next-generation sequencing was developed and the impact of enhanced PI3Kα signaling on the myocardial transcriptome signature of pressure overload-induced pathological hypertrophy was explored. These analyses identified multiple miRNAs and mRNAs that were abnormally expressed in pathological hypertrophy and partially or completely normalized with increased PI3Kα signaling. Additionally, several novel miRNAs potentially linked to remodeling in cardiac hypertrophy were identified. Additional experiments revealed that increased PI3Kα signaling reduces cardiac fibrosis in pathological hypertrophy through modulating TGF-β signaling and miR-21 expression. In conclusion, using the approach of combined miRNA and mRNA sequencing, we identify the protective transcriptome signature of enhanced PI3Kα signaling in the context of pathological hypertrophy, and demonstrate the regulation of TGF-β/miR-21 by which enhanced PI3Kα signaling protects against cardiac fibrosis.
Recreational drug use: A neglected risk factor for end-stage renal disease★

Case series have suggested that heroin and cocaine users are at increased risk for renal failure, but the contribution of heroin and other addictive drugs to the incidence of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in the general population remains unknown. To clarify this issue, we conducted a case-control study in the general population to examine associations between drug use and treated ESRD. Cases were 716 patients who started therapy for ESRD in 1991, identified through a regional registry. Controls were 361 persons of similar age (20 to 65 years) selected by random digit dialing. Main risk factors examined were the lifetime use of heroin, cocaine, and other addictive drugs, assessed by telephone interview. After adjustment for age, sex, race, socioeconomic status, and history of hypertension and diabetes, persons who had ever used heroin or other opiates (any amount) were at increased risk for ESRD (adjusted odds ratio, 19.1; 95% confidence interval, 1.7 to 208.7). After adjustment for the same sociodemographic and medical history variables, the use of cocaine or crack and psychedelic drugs was also associated with ESRD, but these associations could not be separated from the effects of heroin use.
Rates of anagenetic evolution and selection intensity in Middle and Upper Ordovician species of the bryozoan genus Peronopora

Abstract Evolutionary rates and selection intensities in eight cladistically defined species-level evolutionary sequences of the Middle and Upper Ordovician bryozoan genus Peronopora were calculated for comparison with values published for fossil and living taxa. Calculations were restricted to statistically significant unidirectional segments of anagenetic series to minimize the mixing of different modes, directions, and rates of evolutionary change. Rates and selection intensities ranged from 10−7 to 10−6 darwins and from 10−6 to 10−5 haldanes. Across characters, the weighted mean evolutionary rate equaled 5.86 × 10−7 darwins and the mean selection intensity was 6.44 × 10−7. Mean rates of 2.15 × 10−6, 4.31 × 10−6, and 8.61 × 10−6 haldanes, and corresponding mean selection intensities equaling 2.39 × 10−6, 4.78 × 10−6, and 9.56 × 10−6, were calculated for generation lengths of 0.5, 1, and 2 years, respectively. The magnitudes of positive and negative evolutionary rates and selection intensities do not di...
Molecular Determinants and Genetic Modifiers of Aggregation and Toxicity for the ALS Disease Protein FUS/TLS

TDP-43 and FUS are RNA-binding proteins that form cytoplasmic inclusions in some forms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD). Moreover, mutations in TDP-43 and FUS are linked to ALS and FTLD. However, it is unknown whether TDP-43 and FUS aggregate and cause toxicity by similar mechanisms. Here, we exploit a yeast model and purified FUS to elucidate mechanisms of FUS aggregation and toxicity. Like TDP-43, FUS must aggregate in the cytoplasm and bind RNA to confer toxicity in yeast. These cytoplasmic FUS aggregates partition to stress granule compartments just as they do in ALS patients. Importantly, in isolation, FUS spontaneously forms pore-like oligomers and filamentous structures reminiscent of FUS inclusions in ALS patients. FUS aggregation and toxicity requires a prion-like domain, but unlike TDP-43, additional determinants within a RGG domain are critical for FUS aggregation and toxicity. In further distinction to TDP-43, ALS-linked FUS mutations do not promote aggregation. Finally, genome-wide screens uncovered stress granule assembly and RNA metabolism genes that modify FUS toxicity but not TDP-43 toxicity. Our findings suggest that TDP-43 and FUS, though similar RNA-binding proteins, aggregate and confer disease phenotypes via distinct mechanisms. These differences will likely have important therapeutic implications.
Thermal parameter extraction for bipolar circuit modelling

A practical method is presented for extracting the thermal spreading resistance of BJTs, which is needed for accurate circuit simulation. The method uses the output resistance as the temperature sensitive parameter. Measurements can be made in the time or frequency domain.
Hierarchically ordered homochiral metal-organic frameworks built from exceptionally large rectangles and squares.

Hierarchically ordered homochiral metal−organic frameworks were built from the CuII connecting point and the new (R)-6,6′-dichloro-2,2′-diethoxy-1,1′-binaphthyl-4,4′-bis(p-ethynylpyridine) bridging ligand (L). [Cu3L4(DMF)6(H2O)3(ClO4)][ClO4]5·10DMF·10EtOH·7H2O (1) adopts a unique three-dimensional framework structure via simultaneous interlocking and interpenetration of one-dimensional ladders formed by linking rectangles of 24.8 × 48.6 A2 in dimensions, whereas [Cu3L5(DMF)8][ClO4]6·6DMF·8EtOH·Et2O·6H2O (2) exhibits an interesting network topology by threading two-dimensional coordination square grids with one-dimensional coordination polymers.
The Role of Parents and Older Peers in School-Based Cardiovascular Prevention Programs: Implications for Program Development:

This article describes a set of studies which compare the effectiveness of innovative interventions led by older peers and which included a parent component with teacher-led interventions for nutrition, blood pressure, and smoking prevention. Information about the agreement between parents' and children's (grades six through eight) perception of the children's health behavior and family interaction was also found, by surveying parents and children in 1051 households. Both teacher-led and older peer-led interventions were successful in increasing behavioral capabilities for nutrition and blood pressure, measured one year after the interventions. Results of the parent-child survey showed reasonable agreement between parents and children for reports of the child's exercise, dieting, and fast food consumption, but poorer agreement for smoking and perceptions of family interaction. Results are discussed in relation to the planning of future programs designed to address the importance of peer and parental role models.
Psychopharmacology in the schools

Psychotropic medications prescribed frequently to children and adolescents for the treatment of anxiety, depression, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are reviewed. Pediatric pharmacological options based on double-blind, randomized studies are examined. We advocate that psychotropic medications be used only in conjunction with psychosocial interventions and that collaborative practices between medical and school professionals are essential. School psychologists play a critical role in medication management by monitoring behavioral, social-emotional, and academic outcomes, coordinating the intervention team, interfacing with the prescribing physician, and providing psychosocial interventions. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Psychol Schs 43: 493–501, 2006.
Modeling icon search in ACT-R/PM

As the use of graphical user interfaces expands into new areas, icons are becoming an increasingly important aspect of GUIs. Oddly, little research has been done into the costs and benefits associated with using icons. One aspect of icons, icon borders, has been proposed as a means of adding information to icons. An experiment was conducted in which the potential cost in response time of using simple icon borders was investigated. Two models were then constructed in ACT-R/PM to carry out the same icon search task as in the experiment. The results of the modeling effort indicated an area where the design of the experiment could be improved. A second, 'improved' experiment was carried out, the results of which suggest areas for further improvement in the ACT-R/PM models.
Site fidelity in predictable and unpredictable habitats

Site fidelity, the tendency to return to a previously occupied location, has been observed in numerous species belonging to at least three phyla. In this paper I develop a general model using dynamic programming to investigate conditions under which fidelity to a previously occupied territory will be advantageous. The results predict that site fidelity should be inversely related to heterogeneity in territory quality and the animal's lifespan and positively related to the cost of changing territories, age and probability of mortality in the habitat. The predictability of reproductive outcome (defined as the probability that next period's outcome will be the same as this period's outcome) also affects site fidelity. In predictable habitats, changing territories may be favoured after a bad previous outcome. In contrast, settlement should be independent of the previous outcome in unpredictable habitats. Individuals should also be site-faithful in unpredictable habitats, as long as the mean territory quality is equal among available territories. I also investigate the success of two potential decision rules (‘always stay’ and ‘win-stay: lose-switch’) relative to the optimal settlement strategy. The results show that these rules may perform as well as the optimal strategy under certain conditions. The always stay strategy does well in unpredictable habitats, when the mean quality within a territory is equal among territories. In contrast, the win-stay: lose-switch strategy performs best in predictable habitats.
DEVELOPMENT OF GLOBAL CONSENSUS SEQUENCE AND ANALYSIS OF HIGHLY CONSERVED DOMAINS OF THE HCV NS5B PROTEIN

Background Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a plus stranded RNA virus which encodes 10 different genes. The HCV NS5B gene encodes a polymerase, which is responsible for the replication of the virus and is a potential target for the development of antiviral agents. HCV has a high mutation rate and is classified into six major genotypes.
An intermolecular mechanism of T cell help for the production of antibodies to the bacterial pathogen, Chlamydia trachomatis

Antibodies that neutralize infectivity are directed at the antigenically variant major outer membrane protein (MOMP) of Chlamydia trachomatis. A vaccine for chlamydia will need to include T cell determinants that elicit T helper (Th) cells which provide help to MOMP-specific B cells. A limited number of determinants on MOMP are able to elicit Th cells and sequence diversity in the MOMP molecule may alter T cell recognition of these determinants. We investigated whether two sequence invariant proteins of C. trachomatis that are both abundant and immunogenic could elicit T cell help for the production of antibody to MOMP. We found that outer membrane protein 2 (OMP2) but not outer membrane protein 3 (OMP3) was able to prime BALB/c mice for an anamnestic anti-MOMP response following boost with the intact organism. This demonstration of an intermolecular mechanism of T cell help in a bacterial system has important implications for the development of a chlamydial vaccine as well as the design of vaccines for other antigenically variant non-viral pathogens.
Postsecondary Education Among Mexican American Youth Contributions of Parents, Siblings, Acculturation, and Generational Status

This study investigated how experiences in the family context contribute to the postsecondary educational attainment of Mexican American youth. The sample consisted of 104 recent high school graduates. One half of the sample was attending a 2-year college, and the other one half was not enrolled in any postsecondary institution. This study examined the relationships among family (i.e., parents' and older siblings' educational experiences, family income, and parental involvement) and education variables (i.e., high school and college grade point average, college attendance, and college aspirations). Variations within the Mexican American community, in particular acculturation and generational status, were examined in relation to youths' educational experiences.
Adaptive Quality of Service Support for Packet-Switched Wireless Cellular Networks

In this paper, we propose an adaptive quality of service (QoS) design approach via resource reservation and rate adaptation to support multimedia over wireless cellular networks. Three contributions of this work are: (a) an adaptive QoS model that seeks to provide QoS assurances within bounds for each packet flow and to make advance resource reservation in order to support seamless mobility, (b) a revenue-based resource adaptation design that seeks to maximize network revenue while satisfying the QoS requirements, and (c) a resource reservation protocol that supports both application-initiated resource reservation and network-initiated resource adaptation. Our initial implementation and measurements confirm the effectiveness of the proposed design.