cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of chronic ipsilateral or contralateral intrauterine infusion of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) on luteal function of unilaterally ovariectomized ewes

The relationship between the chronic intrauterine injection of PGE2 every four hours adjacent or opposite to the corpus luteum on luteal function was studied. Intrauterine infusions every four hours of PGE2 (500 mug) from days 10 to 17 postestrus maintained luteal function only when infused into a uterine horn adjacent to a luteal-bearing ovary of unilaterally ovariectomized sheep with surgically separated uterine cornua. These data are compatible with the hypothesis that PGE2 is a good candidate for the antiluteolysin since it works only through a similar local pathway as the embryo during early pregnancy to sustain the corpus luteum.
Hyperactive phosphoinositide signaling pathway in platelets of depressed patients: effect of desipramine treatment

Abstract There is some evidence to suggest that certain neurotransmitter receptors, such as adrenergic and serotonergic receptors and receptor-linked signaling systems, may be altered in depression. Serotonin 2A and α 2 -adrenergic receptors are linked to the phosphoinositide (PI) signaling system in platelets and brain. To examine if the PI signaling system is altered in depression, we studied thrombin- and sodium fluoride-stimulated inositol phosphate 1 (IP 1 ) formation before and during desipramine (DMI) treatment in platelets of depressed patients and normal control subjects. We determined thrombin- and sodium fluoride-stimulated IP 1 formation in platelets obtained from hospitalized depressed patients during a drug-free baseline period and after 6 weeks of DMI treatment, and drug-free non-hospitalized normal control subjects. Depressed subjects were diagnosed according to DSM-IV criteria, and severity of illness was assessed with the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. We observed that thrombin-stimulated IP 1 formation in platelets of depressed patients was significantly higher compared with that of normal control subjects. There were no significant differences in sodium fluoride-stimulated IP 1 formation between depressed patients and normal control subjects. We also did not find any significant effect of treatment with DMI on either thrombin- or sodium fluoride-stimulated IP 1 formation in platelets of depressed patients, which continued to be significantly higher after 6 weeks of treatment with DMI, compared with normal control values. Our studies found a hyperactive PI signaling system in platelets of depressed patients. This hyperactive system may be related either to an increased number of thrombin receptors or to a generalized overstimulation of this pathway; however, since we did not observe any differences in sodium fluoride-stimulated IP 1 formation, it appears that, although the sites distal to the receptors may be altered, this abnormality is probably not related to the abnormalities in G proteins.
Artificial regulation of gene expression in Escherichia coli by RNase P

Plasmids encoding various external guide sequences (EGSs) were constructed and inserted into Escherichia coli. In strains harboring the appropriate plasmids, the expression of fully induced beta-galactosidase and alkaline phosphatase activity was reduced by more than 50%, while no reduction in such activity was observed in strains with non-specific EGSs. The inhibition of gene expression was virtually abolished at restrictive temperatures in strains that were temperature-sensitive for RNase P (EC 3.1.26.5). Northern blot analysis showed that the steady-state copy number of EGS RNAs was several hundred per cell in vivo. A plasmid that contained a gene for M1 RNA covalently linked to a specific EGS reduced the level of expression of a suppressor tRNA that was encoded by a separate plasmid. Similar methods can be used to regulate gene expression in E. coli and to mimic the properties of cold-sensitive mutants.
Breaking the barriers of connectivity: an analysis of the wireless LAN

Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) technology emerged in the early 1990s, but was not widely accepted due to its high cost and technological limitations at that time. The significance of WLAN applications and popularity of adopting WLAN-related developments deem an analysis of this technology. The purpose of this paper includes the following three items. Firstly, this manuscript addresses WLAN technology and recent developments by providing the industry standards, vendors, applications, and successful examples. A detailed analysis of pros and cons of WLAN technology is, then, introduced to highlight the importance to adopt this technology. Finally, This manuscript will examine the various factors, which will affect the adoption of this technology in the strategic, managerial, and operational levels.
Dynamic compression of single cells.

Summary Objective The objective of this study was to measure the effects of dynamic compression on single chondrocyte gene expression using a single cell approach, combining single cell biomechanics with single cell gene expression. Design Articular chondrocytes from the middle and deep zones of bovine distal metatarsal cartilage were statically or dynamically compressed (at a frequency of approximately 1Hz) using a custom creep cytocompression apparatus, and their gene expression levels for type II collagen, aggrecan, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1, and matrix metalloproteinase-1 were subsequently measured using single cell real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. Results Single chondrocyte gene expression was lognormally distributed, suggesting that studies of populations of cells may be biased by a minority of cells with very high levels of gene expression, and would not accurately describe the behavior of most chondrocytes. Chondrocytes exposed to dynamic loading did, in general, have higher levels of type II collagen and aggrecan gene expression than statically loaded cells. Specifically, compressive forces of 50 and 100nN suppressed type II collagen expression when applied statically, but the equivalent dynamic loads increased expression to control levels. Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 was not affected by the mechanical loading regimens examined. Conclusions We have demonstrated that a single cell approach is a viable methodology for studying the responses of cells to mechanical forces. Furthermore, examining the effects of mechanical loading on a cell-by-cell basis allows us to capture behaviors and details that would otherwise elude studies performed on a larger scale.
DNA replication and traintracks.

The prescient work of the Russian theoretician Alexei Olovnikov ([1][1], [2][2]) was omitted from Jean Marx's News Focus article “Chromosome end game draws a crowd” (29 March, p. [2348][3]). In the late 1960s, Olovnikov, who had just heard a lecture on my finding that normal human cells have a
Need State and the Illusion of Control

Two investigations tested the hypothesis that the need for a randomly determined outcome influences the degree of perceived skill involved in attaining the outcome, which, in turn, influences the confidence in attaining the outcome. In Study 1, food-deprived or food-satiated subjects expected to have a good or poor chance of winning a food incentive in a drawing. Compared to food-satiated subjects, food-deprived subjects thought the drawing involved more skill, and they were more confident about winning. In Study 2, state lottery players reported their incomes, how much skill they thought playing the lottery involved, and how confident they were about winning Path analyses showed that income negatively affected skill ratings, and skill ratings positively affected confidence-in-winning ratings. Results were replicated using comparable questions about a lottery-sponsored rub-off card game. Results are discussed in terms of Langer's propositions regarding the illusion of control.
17β-Estradiol treatment increases the levels of estrogen receptor and its mRNA in male rat liver

Abstract This study examined estrogen receptor dynamics in the livers of male obses rats ( SHHF Mcc-cp ) treated for two weeks with a continuous, low dose of 17β-estradiol compared with untreated controls. An increased binding capacity for tritiated 17β-estradiol in the cytosol, consistent with binding to the estrogen receptor, was demonstrated in treated males relative to control males (P
Motion analysis with orientational filtering

Abstract The primate visual system recognizes the true direction of pattern motion using local detectors only capable of detecting the component of motion perpendicular to the orientation of the moving edge. A multilayered model is presented with input patterns (binary images) each consisting of rigid geometrical forms moving in a particular direction. Input layers are given component orientation and frequency similar to those recorded in visual area V1, which projects to area MT. The interaction between two consecutive layers of the multilayered model seem to play an important role in solving the aperture problem.
Probabilistic Image Models and Their Information-Theoretic Properties

In this paper, we propose a new method to construct the joint probability model from a specified first-order distribution and correlation structure. The construction procedure can be interpreted in two ways: (1) It embodies the maximum entropy principle, or (2) It is considered as a correlated non-Gaussian source generated by a nonlinear transformation from a correlated Gaussian source. Its stochastic properties [mean,correlation] and information-theoretic properties [entropy, rate-distortion bound] are examined. An example for the lognormal distribution is given to illustrate the construction process and the characteristics of the source. This approach should remove the limitations imposed by earlier methods, and make for more realistic modeling of medical images.
In vitro and in vivo technique for assessing vagus nerve regeneration after parietal cell vagotomy in the rat.

This study determined if the vagus nerve can regenerate and/or reinnervate the gastric parietal cell mass after parietal cell vagotomy (PCV) and examines tests for assessing vagus nerve regeneration in rats. Microscopic dissection of the neurovascular bundle allowed the vagus nerve to be divided at the gastric body with preservation of the antropyloric nerve and gastric vasculature. Gastric secretory tests were performed under basal and stimulated conditions using secretagogues and insulin hypoglycemia. The candidate hormone, pancreatic polypeptide, was measured in plasma following a mixed meal, insulin hypoglycemia and i.v. secretin. Rats were killed weekly for 9 weeks and the vagal nerve distribution examined by both light and electron microscopy. Stimulated gastric acid output fell from 164 to 26 μmol/h immediately after operation (P < 0.001). One week following PCV, the nerves were swollen with fibroblast infiltration and collagen around axon groups showed degeneration. By the third week after PCV, the axons were more densely packed with neurofilaments and acid output had increased to 183 μmol/h. In the fourth and fifth weeks, the enlarged Schwann cell processes had more axons and acid output rose to 262 μmol/h. By the seventh week, both large and small axons were identified and the acid output was 93% higher than the preoperative level (P < 0.001). PCV and antrectomy also was followed by reinnervation of the gastric mucosa. Pancreatic polypeptide concentration in plasma was virtually unchanged following ingestion of food, insulin hypoglycemia or secretin. In rats, following PCV, gastric secretory tests and electron microscopy seem to be the most reliable methods of assessing vagus nerve regeneration.
Absolute cross sections from the "boomerang model" for resonant electron-molecule scattering

The boomerang model is used to calculate absolute cross sections near the $^{2}\ensuremath{\Pi}_{g}$ shape resonance in $e$-${\mathrm{N}}_{2}$ scattering. The calculated cross sections are shown to satisfy detailed balancing. The exchange of electrons is taken into account. A parametrized complex-potential curve for the intermediate ${\mathrm{N}}_{2}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ ion is determined from a small part of the experimental data, and then used to calculate other properties. The calculations are in good agreement with the absolute cross sections for vibrational excitation from the ground state, the absolute cross section $v=1\ensuremath{\rightarrow}2$, and the absolute total cross section.
Forage plant estrogens

Forage plant estrogens occur at high levels in certain forage species. Such levels are responsible for reproductive and other effects in animals. Current progress regarding the chemical, metabolic, and biological effects, as well as occurrence of the several naturally occurring forage estrogens, is described. Forage estrogens occur as natural plant responses to foliar and other plant diseases. Their potency in animals is approximately 1/1000 to 1/10,000 that of the principal animal hormones such as estradiol. Coumestans and isoflavones comprise the two principal classes of forage estrogens, with coumestrol and genistein being the most potent and predominant of each class. Only very low levels of the coumestans occurred in alfalfa leaf protein concentrates prepared at alkaline pH.
Propranolol as an antiarrhythmic agent

Abstract While additional studies will be needed to clarify the role of propranolol and other beta-adrenergic blocking agents, they are important therapeutic supplements to the treatment of specific cardiac arrhythmias. They are hazardous if the clinician is not familiar with their physiologic effects. In using propranolol, or other antiarrhythmic agents, prompt treatment of such problems as anoxia, electrolyte, and acid-base imbalance is essential.
Coments on “derivation of water vapor fluxes from lidar measurements” by W. E. Eichingeret al.

Eichingeret al. (1993) discuss the use of a Raman lidar for measurements of water vapor fluxes and suggest that the method is superior to the use of standard micrometeorological, point sensor measurements. Although the lidar shows considerable promise for some purposes, we believe that their criticisms of point sensors are not warranted; that there are difficulties with their application of dissipation techniques to extract fluxes; and that they misinterpret the existence of plume structures as statistically significant spatial variations of turbulent fluxes.
A New Alcohol-Dehydrogenase with Unique Stereospecificity from Pseudomonas Sp

Abstract A new nicotinamide cofactor-dependent alcohol dehydrogenase from Pseudomonas strain SBD6 (PADH) was isolated and purified 150-fold to homogeneity using a combination of salt precipitation, anion-exchange chromatography, gel filtration chromatography, and dye matrix chromatography. Approximately 10 mg of pure enzyme can be obtained from 10 g of wet cells. The enzyme has four subunits with a total molecular weight of 162,000. Incubation with the metal chelators 1,10-phenanthroline, 2-aminoethanethiol, hydroxyquinolinesulfonic acid, N-ethylmaleimide, and potassium cyanide result in complete loss of activity. The enzyme is very stable ( t 1 2 ∼ 7 days at pH 7 and 25°C in the absence of 2-propanol and ∼ 18 days in the presence of 10% 2-propanol, v/v) and possesses a broad substrate specificity with transfer of the pro-(R) hydride from NADH to the si face of carbonyl substrates to give (R)-alcohols in high enantiomeric excess, a stereochemical process different from that of other known alcohol dehydrogenases. Synthetic scale reductions are facilitated with 2-propanol as a hydride source for the regeneration of NADH. The kinetic mechanism is ordered bi-bi with the cofactor binding first. Based on NAD and 2-propanol, the kinetic parameters of the enzyme were determined to be Vmax = 29.9 Units mg−1 at 25°C and pH 8.5, KmNAD = 0.36 m m and Km2-propanol = 0.19 m m .
Intercomparison of versions 4, 4.1 and 5 of the MODIS Land Surface Temperature and Emissivity products and validation with laboratory measurements of sand samples from the Namib desert, Namibia

Abstract Eight new refinements were implemented in the MODIS Land Surface Temperature and Emissivity (LST&E) product suite when transitioning from version 4 (V4) to version 5 (V5). The refinements were designed to improve the spatial coverage, stability, and accuracy of the product suite. Version 4.1 (V4.1) is an interim collection which uses V5 input products (MOD02, MOD03, MOD07, MOD10, and MOD35), but the LST&E retrieval algorithm is unchanged from V4 in which the split-window and day/night temperature retrieval algorithms are only partially incorporated, and not fully incorporated as in V5. A test dataset for the V4.1 product was produced by MODAPS for a 3-month period from July through September 2004, and after an initial evaluation period, it was decided to generate the V4.1 product from mission period 2007001 onwards as a continuation of previous years of V4 data. This paper compares MODIS retrieved surface emissivities between V4, V4.1 and V5 using the level-3 MODIS daily LST&E product, MOD11B1.Comparisons of MOD11B1 retrieved surface emissivity during the Jul–Sep 2004 test period with lab measurements of sand samples collected at the Namib desert, Namibia result in a combined mean absolute emissivity difference for bands 29 (8.55 µm), 31 (11 µm) and 32 (12 µm) of 1.06%, 0.65% and 1.93% for V4, V4.1 and V5 respectively. Maximum band 29 emissivity differences with the lab results were 4.10%, 2.96% and 8.64% for V4, V4.1 and V5 respectively. These results indicate that over arid and semi-arid areas, users should consider using MODIS V4 or V4.1 data instead of V5. Furthermore, users should be careful not to develop time series from a mixture of product versions that could introduce artifacts at version boundaries.
Some aspects of condensation in clouds

Several general features of nucleation characteristics of low density cosmic clouds are discussed. These are: (1) tendency for metastable condensates to form, (2) non-occurrence of nominal refractory molecule in the gas, (3) a strong temperature dependence of condensation at relatively low temperatures, and (4) significant vibrational disequilibrium in cosmic clouds. These support previous analyses by the author which indicate that equilibrium calculations have restricted applicability. A kinetic treatment of condensation is required for cosmic grains and the possibility of formulating such an analysis is pointed out.
Organic osmolyte channels: Transport characteristics and regulation

Organic osmolyte channels: Transport characteristics and regulation. Erythrocytes of the skate ( Raja erinacea ) exposed to hypotonic stress swell and then undergo a volume regulatory decrease by releasing taurine and other osmolytes. Previous studies showed that taurine release occurs via a volume-activated, Na + -independent, bi-directional transporter that has the properties of a size-limited channel. We now report on the transport characteristics of this channel and its regulation. Kinetic, competition and inhibitor studies indicate that polyols (myo-inositol) and trimethylamines (betaine) are transported by the same channel as taurine. Although the identity of the channel is still unknown a variety of evidence suggests that band 3 is involved in either channel formation or regulation. Hypotonicity causes phosphorylation and structural changes in band 3. Under isotonic conditions band 3 is predominantly in the dimeric form. Hypotonicity causes a shift to tetrameric band 3. We hypothesize that the band 3 tetramer either forms or regulates an osmolyte channel. The finding that expression of band 3 protein increases osmolyte channel activity in Xenopus oocytes supports this hypothesis.
A FACULTY WORKSHOP ON STUDENTS' WRITING SKILLS

Description de l'organisation et du contenu d'un «workshop» destine a encourager des enseignants en psychologie a ameliorer les capacites d'ecriture de leurs etudiants
The use of intraperitoneal antibiotics to treat dialysis-associated peritonitis.

Peritoneal dialysis has been successfully used in treating patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) for approximately 40 years. Peritoneal infections are a frequent consequence of this procedure which has diminished its acceptance by physicians and patients alike. Since the development of an improved access catheter and automated dialysate delivery devices, peritoneal analysis has been gaining widespread acceptance as an alternative to hemodialysis in the treatment of patients with ESRD. Despite the improvement in the peritoneal dialysis systems, peritonitis continues to be a major complication for adult and pediatric patients undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD).:‘-’ Although most patients have from less than one to four peritonitis episodes per year, some patients have no episodes of' peritonitis or have a significantly high occurrence (greater than four episodes) of peritonitis. Several reports have indicated that two thirds of the total number of ‘peritonitis episodes is due to gram-positive bacteria. Gram-negative bacteria accounts for approximately 15% and fungal infections account for less than 5%.
Biological Diversity, Soils, and Economics

Terrestrial biological diversity is supported by solar energy captured by plants growing in soil. This soil-based plant productivity also provides the foundation for human societies through production of food and renewable forms of energy. Variations in plant productivity, resulting from differences in inherent soil fertility, variations in climate and weather, and differences in chemical inputs and agricultural practices, produce patterns of biological diversity that are associated with the agricultural component of economic productivity. Ecological processes lead to a generally negative relation between the diversity of plant species and potential agricultural productivity at both local and global scales. One implication of this negative relation is that preservation of areas of high plant biodiversity does not require the sacrifice of productive agricultural lands.
A class of parallel multiple-front algorithms on subdomains

A class of parallel multiple-front solution algorithms is developed for solving linear systems arising from discretization of boundary value problems and evolution problems. The basic substructuring approach and frontal algorithm on each subdomain are first modified to ensure stable factorization in situations where ill-conditioning may occur due to differing material properties or the use of high degree finite elements (p methods). Next, the method is implemented on distributed-memory multiprocessor systems with the final reduced (small) Schur complement problem solved on a single processor. A novel algorithm that implements a recursive partitioning approach on the subdomain interfaces is then developed. Both algorithms are implemented and compared in a least-squares finite-element scheme for viscous incompressible flow computation using h- and p-finite element schemes. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Variations in the use of cardiac procedures in the Veterans Health Administration

Abstract Background Considerable variability exists in the use of cardiac procedures for patients with heart disease. One cause for this variability is the availability of local facilities to perform these procedures. This study was initiated to identify health system features that are related to rates of catheterization, percutaneous coronary angioplasty, and coronary artery bypass graft surgery in the Veterans Affairs health care system in which structured referral systems are intended to compensate for variation in local resource availability. Methods Medical records of 30,901 patients admitted to a Veterans Affairs medical center with coronary artery disease were analyzed. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for undergoing each procedure, based on clinical variables (age, sex, race, coronary artery disease type, and a computed comorbidity score), and local Veterans Affairs facility features (geographic region, primary service area size, and hospital complexity) were estimated by logistic regression. Results Regression models demonstrated significant associations between the odds of undergoing each procedure and medical center geographic and complexity features, after adjustment for clinical variables. Associations included the presence of a cardiac catheterization laboratory for undergoing catheterization (OR 1.86, CI 1.76 to 1.95) and the presence of a cardiac surgical program for angioplasty (OR 1.46, CI 1.36 to 1.57) and bypass grafting (OR 1.43, CI 1.34 to 1.53). Including health system variables in addition to clinical variables in the regression models improved the discriminating ability of the models by 44.2% to 51.4%. Conclusions Geographic location and the complexity of the local Veterans Affairs hospital are important determinants of the use of cardiac procedures in the Veterans Affairs health care system, even though referral networks are intended to correct for local differences in hospital complexity. (Am Heart J 1999;137:706-13.)
Ultrastructural evidence of synaptic contacts between substance p-, enkephalin-, and serotonin-immunoreative terminals and retrogradely labeled sympathetic preganglionic neurons in the Rat: A Study using a double-peroxidase procedure

A double-peroxidase procedure was used to study the ultrastructural relationships between terminals and fibers containing three putative neurotransmitters and retrogradely identified sympathetic preganglionic neurons (SPNs) located in the intermediolateral cell column (IML) of the rat. SPNs with axons in the cervical sympathetic trunk were retrogradely labeled with horseradish peroxidase. In addition, terminals and fibers containing substance P, enkephalin, and serotonin were detected using immunohistochemistry. Sections containing both retrogradely labeled SPNs and immunoreactive processes were processed for electron microscopy. Ultrastructural examination revealed synaptic contacts between terminals containing each of these three neurotransmitters and retrogradely labeled dendrites from SPNs. Also, immunoreactive terminals were apposed to retrogradely labeled cell bodies. Therefore, these transmitters may alter sympathetic function by their direct action on SPNs.
Inhibition of induced murine erythroleukemia cell differentiation by tumor promoters: relation to the cell cycle.

Abstract The tumor promoter, 12-0-tetradecanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate (TPA), inhibits induced differentiation of murine erythroleukemia cells (MELC). Employing MELC synchronized in the G 1 S phase of the cell cycle and placed in culture with hexamethylene bisacetamide, it is shown that TPA blocks the accumulation of globin mRNA and globin synthesis. The TPA-sensitive period for inhibition of globin synthesis persists for up to 9 hrs, a time corresponding to the transit of cells through the first S, G2, M and into G1. If addition of TPA is delayed for 11 hrs or more, there is induction of accumulation of globin mRNA and globin synthesis.
NIDA technical review: nitrite inhalants.

Summary Nitrite inhalants are commonly abused substances in the US and Europe. “Nitrite inhalants and AIDS” was a popular topic in the early 1980s when the cause of AIDS was not known. With the discovery of HIV, concern about nitrite use wained. However, nitrite inhalant use is associated with behavioral relapse and HIV transmission among gay men, with decreased lymphocyte counts and natural killer cell activity in laboratory studies, and remains a candidate “cofactor” in the pathogenesis of AIDS-related Karposi sarcoma. Discouraging nitrite use continues to be a worthwhile public health goal. Participants recommend specific research efforts.
Mitigation of Forwarding Misbehaviors in Multiple Access Networks with Network Coding

We propose a physical layer approach to detect the relay node that injects false data or adds channel errors into the network encoder in multiple access relay networks. The misbehaving relay is detected by using the maximum a posteriori (MAP) detection rule which is optimal in the sense of minimizing the probability of incorrect decision (false alarm and miss detection). The proposed scheme does not require sending extra bits at the source, such as hash function or message authentication check bits, and hence there is no transmission overhead. The side information regarding the presence of forwarding misbehavior is exploited at the decoder to enhance the reliability of decoding. We derive the probability of false alarm and miss detection and the probability of bit error, taking into account the lossy nature of wireless links. We show that the proposed decoding with the aid of the MAP detection of misbehaving relay is within 1dB away from the genie-aided decoding.
Strain-induced phase transformation at the surface of an AISI-304 stainless steel irradiated to 4.4 dpa and deformed to 0.8% strain

Abstract Surface relief due to localized deformation in a 4.4-dpa neutron-irradiated AISI 304 stainless steel was investigated using scanning electron microscopy coupled with electron backscattering diffraction and scanning transmission electron microscopy. It was found a body-centered-cubic (BCC) phase (deformation-induced martensite) had formed at the surface of the deformed specimen along the steps generated from dislocation channels. Martensitic hill-like formations with widths of ∼1 μm and depths of several microns were observed at channels with heights greater than ∼150 nm above the original surface. Martensite at dislocation channels was observed in grains along the [0 0 1]–[1 1 1] orientation but not in those along the [1 0 1] orientation.
Importance and seasonal availability of terrestrial invertebrates as prey for juvenile salmonids in floodplain spring brooks of the Kol River (Kamchatka, Russian Federation)

Energy and resource fluxes between terrestrial and aquatic habitats of river flood plains can have reciprocal influences on food webs. Floodplain spring brooks may contain high densities (>1 m−2) of juvenile fish even when aquatic food resources appear to be low. A likely explanation is the allochthonous energy subsidy from riparian vegetation (e.g. leaves, invertebrates). To quantify this relationship in a rich salmon river ecosystem, we measured the temporal and spatial flux of terrestrial invertebrate and aquatic food resources in relation to diets of the two most abundant salmonid species in two spring brooks within early ( 50 years) successional riparia on an expansive coastal flood plain of the Kol River, Kamchatka. Standing crops of benthic invertebrates and density of drifting invertebrates (dry mass) were fairly low (<4 g m−2 and <1 mg m−3, respectively) at both sites, but annual average terrestrial invertebrate input among sites was 22.2 ± 0.1 mg m−2 day−1. On average 68% of the coho salmon diet was of terrestrial origin, contrasting with 13% for Dolly Varden char at both sites, thus showing resource partitioning. Diet varied temporally and spatially with prey availability. Specifically, larvae of a weevil (Curculionidae) feeding on willow catkins were a dominant diet item for coho in the spring but only at the early successional site; Dolly Varden also ate these weevils but aquatic invertebrates continued to dominate their diets, further demonstrating behavioural segregation. The results show the importance of channel-floodplain connectivity to management and conservation of salmon rivers. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Kinetic Study of Amyloid Formation

We propose a kinetic model for amyloid protein aggregation. The problem of protein aggregation is important for the understanding and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and also for the development of bio-macromolecules as new materials. By extending several well-known models for protein aggregation, we write the time evolution of aggregate concentrations containing r proteins, denoted c(r,t), in terms of Smoluchowski kinetics. With this approach we take into account all possible aggregation and fragmentation reactions involving clusters of any size. For example, two aggregates of sizes x and y could merge to form a larger aggregate of size x+y. Correspondingly, an aggregate of size x+y could break-up into two smaller constituent aggregates of sizes x and y, respectively. The rates of each aggregation or fragmentation reaction, called kernels, are specified in terms of the aggregate size, and we solve c(r,t) for large cluster sizes using advanced numerical techniques. We show that by using Smoluchowski kinetics many pathways to fibrillation are possible and quantities, such as the aggregate length distribution at a given time, can be calculated. More importantly, the model shows good agreement with experimental results.
Molecular characterization of the Caenorhabditis elegans REF-1 family member, hlh-29/hlh-28

Members of the Caenorhabditis elegans REF-1 family of bHLH proteins are atypical in that each protein contains two bHLH domains. In this study we describe a functional and molecular characterization of the REF-1 family members, hlh-29/hlh-28. 5'-RACE results confirm the presence of two bHLH domain coding regions in a single transcript and quantitative PCR (qPCR) shows that hlh-29/hlh-28 mRNA is detected in wild-type animals throughout development. A promoter fusion of hlh-29 to the green fluorescent protein shows post-embryonic reporter activity in cells of the vulva, the somatic gonad, the intestine and in neuronal cells of the head and tail. Loss of hlh-29/hlh-28 function via RNA interference (RNAi) results in multiple phenotypes including late embryonic lethality, yolk protein accumulation, everted vulva, bordering behavior, and alter chemosensory responses.
Use of X-ray absorption spectroscopy and esterification to investigate Cr(III) and Ni(II) ligands in alfalfa biomass

Previously performed studies have shown that alfalfa shoot biomass can bind an appreciable amount of nickel(II) and chromium(III) ions from aqueous solution. Direct and indirect approaches were applied to study the possible mechanisms involved in metal binding by the alfalfa biomass. The direct approach involves investigations of the metal-bound alfalfa shoot biomass by X-ray absorption spectroscopic analysis (XANES and EXAFS). Results from these studies suggest that nickel(II) and chromium(III) binding mostly occurs through coordination with oxygen ligands. Indirect approaches consist of chemical modification of carboxylate groups that have been shown to play an important role in metal binding to the alfalfa biomass. An appreciable decrease in metal binding resulted after acidic methanol esterification of the biomass, indicating that carboxyl groups are entailed in the metal binding by the alfalfa biomass. In addition, base hydrolysis of the alfalfa biomass increased the binding of these metals, which further indicates that carboxyl groups play an important role in the binding of these metal ions from solution. Therefore, by combining two different techniques, our results indicate that carboxylate groups are the major ligands responsible for the binding of nickel(II) and chromium(III) by alfalfa biomass.
Parameter sets for upper and lower bounds on soil-to-indoor-air contaminant attenuation predicted by the johnson and Ettinger vapor intrusion model

Abstract Migration of volatile chemicals from the subsurface into overlying buildings is known as vapor intrusion (VI). Under certain circumstances, people living in homes above contaminated soil or ground water may be exposed to harmful levels of these vapors. A popular VI screening-level algorithm widely used in the United States, Canada and the UK to assess this potential risk is the “Johnson and Ettinger” (J&E) model. Concern exists over using the J&E model for deciding whether or not further action is necessary at sites, as many parameters are not routinely measured (or are un-measurable). Using EPA-recommended ranges of parameter values for nine soil-type/source depth combinations, input parameter sets were identified that correspond to bounding results of the J&E model. The results established the existence of generic upper and lower bound parameter sets for maximum and minimum exposure for all soil types and depths investigated. Using the generic upper and lower bound parameter sets, an analysis can be performed that, given the limitations of the input ranges and the model, bounds the attenuation factor in a VI investigation.
Fossil horses from “Eohippus” (Hyracotherium) to Equus, 2: rates of dental evolution revisited

Rates of dental evolution are calculated for four upper first molar (M1) characters of 26 ancestral-descendant species pairs of Cenozoic horses from North America. On average, crown height evolved significantly more rapidly (X= 0.104 darwins, d) than did occlusal dimensions (length and width; X= 0.045 d and 0.047 d, respectively). As might be expected, low-crowned Eocene and Oligocene horses (Hyracotherium through Mesohippus) exhibit relatively slow rates of dental evolution. During the major early Miocene adaptive shift from browsers to grazers (Parahippus to Merychippus), only crown height evolved rapidly. Advanced Miocene-Pliocene three-toed hipparions and one-toed equines are generally normal, or horotelic, in their rates of dental evolution. The most rapid rates are exhibited in Miocene browsing anchitheres and the dwarf genus Pseudhipparion. Horses do not show the very high rates of dental evolution reported elsewhere for Paleogene mammals. The traditional notion of horses being a prime example of rapid morphological evolution as seen from the fossil record is not corroborated by the data presented here.
Cardiac arrest as a possible sequela of critical airway management and intubation

Immediate cardiac arrest may occur as a result of the physiological consequences of critical airway management, which may include one or all of the following: (1) sedation and/or paralysis, (2) tracheal intubation, and (3) positive pressure ventilation. Two patients are reported, both with myocarditis, who developed cardiac arrest within minutes of simple intubations. Their arrests were not related to technical difficulties of critical airway management. Any disease process that creates a preload-dependent cardiovascular system also creates a situation wherein critical airway management may cause cardiac decompensation. All medications administered to sedate patients and facilitate intubation, as well as mechanical ventilation itself, can cause a decrease in preload. This may be a significant mechanism through which immediate decompensation occurs. Potential conditions that cause preload-dependent cardiovascular systems, as well as alternate therapeutic considerations, are outlined. In these patients intubations should not be delayed, but should be done with extreme caution in anticipation of possible cardiac arrest.
Introducing physical telerehabilitation in seniors with mobility limitation: System feasibility and acceptance

Physical therapy has been shown effective in geriatric population in addressing mobility limitation. Telerehabilitation systems may support physical therapy programs at patient homes however such systems were not systematically assessed in seniors. The Home Automated Telemanagement (HAT) system for in-home physical telerehabilitation of seniors with mobility limitations was developed and tested. The HAT rehabilitation system was designed to allow patients with mobility limitations to complete an individualized physical therapy plan prescribed by a physical therapist and to allow for clinicians to monitor and assist with in-home rehabilitation. We conducted a 12-week study to assess the feasibility and patient acceptance of the system. Our results showed that home-based physical telerehabilitation is feasible in seniors with mobility limitations, and it can potentially improve patient functional status significantly. Statistically significant improvement was documented using Berg Balance Scale (change from 36.6 ± 12.1 to 41.7 ± 11.1, p<;0.004), Timed 25-foot Walk (change from 13.5 ± 8.6 to 10.6 ± 4.5, p<;0.04), and 6-minute walk (change from 36.6 ± 12.1 to 41.7 ± 11.1, p<;0.004). The participants of the study demonstrated a very high level of support for the home-based physical telerehabilitation program.
A computerized 2-dimensional vibrating probe for mapping extracellular current patterns

Abstract We describe a computer-assisted 2-dimensional vibrating probe system for mapping endogenous electric current patterns in biological preparations. This system overcomes some of the main limitations of the original 1-dimensional vibrating probe design and adds several new capabilities. Two piezo-electric bender elements mounted perpendicularly are used to vibrate the probe in a circle by applying 2 sine waves (1 to each element) that are 90° out-of-phase with each other. The circular rotation of the probe allows it to detect simultaneously the 2 orthogonal components of a current in the horizontal plane. The voltages measured by the probe are digitized and analyzed by a computer and are used to calculate a current vector. A graphical representation of the current vector is then superimposed on a video image of the experimental preparation. This probe system responds to known currents in the expected manner and exhibits a low inherent noise level. Also included in this paper are some preliminary measurements made with this instrument on neurulating Xenopus embryos and on transected larval sea lamprey ( Petromyzon marinus ) spinal cords.
The racial crossover in comorbidity, disability, and mortality

This study analyzed one respondent per household who was age 70 or more at the time of the household’s inclusion in Wave 1 (1993–1994) and whose survival status was determinable at Wave 2 (1995–1996) of the Survey on Asset and Health Dynamics Among the Oldest Old (AHEAD Survey). At age 76 at Wave 1, there was a racial crossover in the cumulative number of six potentially fatal diagnoses (chronic lung disease, cancer, heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and stroke) from a higher cumulative average number for blacks to a higher average number for whites. Also, there was a racial crossover at age 86 in the cumulative average number of disabilities in the Advanced Activities of Daily Living (AADLs), from a higher average for blacks to a higher average for whites. Between Waves 1 and 2, there was a racial crossover in the odds of mortality from higher odds for blacks to higher odds for whites; this occurred at about age 81. The results are consistent with the interpretation that the racial crossover in comorbidity (but not the crossover in AADL disability) propelled the racial crossover in mortality.
The Effects of Mentoring on First-Year Teachers' Perceptions of Support Received

(2005). The Effects of Mentoring on First-Year Teachers' Perceptions of Support Received. The Clearing House: A Journal of Educational Strategies, Issues and Ideas: Vol. 78, No. 3, pp. 110-117.
Extraretinal Photocontrol of Reproductive Responses of Leghorn Hens to Photoperiods of Different Length and Spectrum

Abstract Control, pinealectomized, enucleated and enucleated-pinealectomized White Leghorn hens were subjected to decreases and increases of clear incandescent light (full spectrum) and restricted spectrum photoperiods. Decrease in clear incandescent light caused a decrease in hen-day egg production. Increase in clear incandescent light caused an increase in hen-day egg production. However, continuous blue light did not stimulate egg production. Data from this experiment demonstrates that extraretinal photoreceptors are activated by certain wave lengths of light. The mechanisms activated through extraretinal photoreceptors can perceive changes in photoperiod and thereby influence gonadal function.
Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Regional Cerebral Blood Oxygenation Changes During Breath Holding

Background and Purpose —Recently, noninvasive MRI methods have been developed that are now capable of detecting and mapping regional hemodynamic responses to various stress tests, which involve the use of vasoactive substances such as acetazolamide or inhalation of carbon dioxide. The aim of this study was to assess regional cerebral blood oxygenation changes during breath holding at 1.5 T. Methods —In 6 healthy volunteers, T2*-weighted gradient echo images were acquired for a total dynamic scanning time of 10 minutes during alternating periods of breath holding and normal breathing at 40-second intervals after inspiration, at 30-second intervals after expiration, and at 18 seconds after expiration. To quantify the relative signal changes, 2.5-minute baseline image sampling with normal breathing was carried out. Results —Repeated challenges of breath holding of various durations induced an overall rise in blood oxygen level–dependent (BOLD) signal intensities. In general, BOLD signal intensity increases were greatest in gray matter and nonsignificant in white matter. Depending on the breath-holding duration and techniques, BOLD signal intensity increases of all activated pixels varied from 0.8% to 3.5%. Conclusions —The present study demonstrates that cerebral blood oxygenation changes during breath holding can be detected by means of fMRI at 1.5 T. The breath-holding test, a short and noninvasive method to study cerebral hemodynamics with fMRI, could become a useful alternative to the acetazolamide or CO2 test.
PRIVV: Private remote iris-authentication with Vaulted Verification

Iris biometrics are one of the strongest modalities in terms of performance, and as such, are used in several high-security scenarios. However, remote/network authentication creates its own class of problems that have not previously been considered. In this work, we adapt Vaulted Verification, a novel remote matching protocol, to work with iris biometrics in a network authentication setting. We give an overview of how Vaulted Verification works and show how to adapt it to the unique challenges of iris biometrics. We then investigate the algorithm's security and evaluate its performance, showing that Vaulted Verification is among the top-performing template protection algorithms for the CASIAv1 dataset. We conclude with a summary and ideas for future work.
Dipeptidylpeptidase 4 negatively regulates colony-stimulating factor activity and stress hematopoiesis

Enhancement of hematopoietic recovery after radiation, chemotherapy, or hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplantation is clinically relevant. Dipeptidylpeptidase (DPP4) cleaves a wide variety of substrates, including the chemokine stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1). In the course of experiments showing that inhibition of DPP4 enhances SDF-1-mediated progenitor cell survival, ex vivo cytokine expansion and replating frequency, we unexpectedly found that DPP4 has a more general role in regulating colony-stimulating factor (CSF) activity. DPP4 cleaved within the N-termini of the CSFs granulocyte-macrophage (GM)-CSF, G-CSF, interleukin-3 (IL-3) and erythropoietin and decreased their activity. Dpp4 knockout or DPP4 inhibition enhanced CSF activities both in vitro and in vivo. The reduced activity of DPP4-truncated versus full-length human GM-CSF was mechanistically linked to effects on receptor-binding affinity, induction of GM-CSF receptor oligomerization and signaling capacity. Hematopoiesis in mice after radiation or chemotherapy was enhanced in Dpp4(-/-) mice or mice receiving an orally active DPP4 inhibitor. DPP4 inhibition enhanced engraftment in mice without compromising HSC function, suggesting the potential clinical utility of this approach.