cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Suggested experimental designs for song playbacks

Abstract In studies of bird song, experimental designs and statistical analyses are often inappropriate for the hypotheses being tested. Frequently, only one playback or tutor stimulus is used to test a number of subjects, and the repeated samples of that single replicate are then analysed statistically as though the samples themselves were replicates. Proper experimental design demands that both the population of subjects and the ‘population’ of song stimuli be sampled adequately. Several designs commonly used for playback or tutoring experiments are illustrated, and changes in design are suggested that would increase the number of independent samples and would thus improve the reliability and external validity (i.e. generalizability) of the experimental work.
A research note on the incremental validity of job knowledge and integrity tests for predicting maximal performance

In a sample of industrial job applicants, relationships among scores on an integrity test, a job knowledge measure, and maximal performance as assessed by a work sample measure were investigated. The observed correlation between the personality-based integrity test and maximal performance was .27, indicating that integrity tests can be predictive of maximal performance. Furthermore, integrity test scores correlated .14 with job knowledge and job knowledge scores had a validity of .36 for maximal performance. Theoretical implications for the maximal/typical performance distinction are discussed.
Characterization of estradiol receptors in brain cytosols from perinatal ferrets.

Abstract Studies were undertaken to characterize the binding of [ 3 H]estradiol ([ 3 H]E 2 ) to blood plasma and to brain cytosols collected from perinatal ferrets of both sexes. A dialysis experiment showed that the binding capacity of plasma for [ 3 H]E 2 was low in neonatal ferrets. Saturable, high-affinity binding of [ 3 H]E 2 to cytosols prepared from ferret hypothalamus + preoptic area (H + POA), basal temporal lobe, and midbrain + brainstem (sexes pooled) was demonstrated 5 days prior to the date of expected parturition (42-day gestation), as well as on the day of birth and on postnatal days 5 and 10. The binding of E 2 to cytosols prepared from H + POA and temporal lobe of newborn ferrets met established criteria for estrogen receptors: (a) it was saturable; (b) it had a high affinity ( K d ∼ 10 −10 M); (c) it was apparently macromolecular since it migrated in front of a 4.7 S dansyl-bovine serum albumin marker on sucrose gradients of low ionic strength and eluted in the void volume of Sephadex LH-20 columns; (d) it was apparently proteinaceous since binding was destroyed by preincubation with pronase; and (e) it was steroid-specific. Previous research suggests that perinatal exposure to E 2 causes neither behavioral defeminization nor masculinization in the developing ferret. The present findings raise the question of whether estrogens, acting via neural receptors, normally affect brain development in ferrets of either sex.
Effect of disuse osteoporosis on bone composition: the fate of bone matrix

Disuse bone atrophy was induced in 10 adult dogs by means of brachial plexus section and/or elbow disarticulation. After 9 to 12 weeks of disuse intact humeri were examined by X-ray, and their physical properties determined. Thewhole humeri were isolated, defatted, dried to constant weight, and their mineral and collagen content determined. Eight out of 10 experimental (non-used) humeri demonstrated evidence of decreased radiodensity. The non-used limb demonstrated parallel loss in dry, fat-free weight (−23.2%), in collagen (−25.3%), and in mineral (−26.1%), as compared to the normal limb. The data indicated that the major portion of the lost bone tissue in disuse osteoporosis is replaced by water, fat, and other unidentified organic materials rather than fibrous tissue, and that collagen is lost in equal proportion to mineral. The proportionatelly greater loss of collagen and mineral than of dry, fat-free weight appears to be due to an increase of non-collagenous, non-lipid organic material, presumably protein.
Giant, Mushroom-Shaped Osteoma of the Orbit Originating from the Maxillary Sinus

A 53-year-old woman had a six-month history of proptosis, pain, and decreased vision in the right eye. Skull X-ray films and polytomography demonstrated a giant, mushroom-shaped osteoma originating from the roof of the maxillary sinus and invading the orbit. The tumor was removed by a lateral orbital approach with prompt resolution of proptosis and pain, and recovery of normal vision and ocular motility. This patient is one of 34 patients with 38 paranasal sinus osteomas examined here in the last 25 years. Only six patients have had orbital symptoms or signs.
On the mechanism of thought-induced attitude change

The process of thought-induced attitude change was examined by having subjects rate the similarity of adjective descriptions of persons (or groups) with each other and with a hypothetical ideal. Subjects either thought about or were distracted from thinking about a target stimulus for 90 seconds. Following this, subjects re-rated all pairs of descriptions. An analysis of change on similarity ratings revealed that the target stimulus moved toward the ideal while the ideal did not move as a result of thought. Support for other possibilities was not obtained.
Reaction velocities in vivo: standardization of kinetic “constants” by correction for blood flow

Abstract 1. 1. The results of kinetic studies in vitro are difficult to apply to metabolic reactions in vivo. 2. 2. In living vertebrates reaction rates are usually first-order and for a particular reaction the rate “constant”, k, varies with the several thousand-fold variations in metabolic rate. 3. 3. Therefore, in the kinetic equation V = k[S] ≅ V max [S] K m since k varies with metabolic rate, Vmax and/or Km will also vary. 4. 4. However, reaction rates for a series of different substrates were similar in animals varying widely in metabolic rate if corrections were made for differences in blood flow. 5. 5. The observation that metabolic rate (reaction rate) is directly dependent on blood flow (Coulson et al., 1977) allowed derivation of new kinetic constants which were valid in vivo. 6. 6. Introduction of a flow term into the observed first-order equations yields an “affinity constant”, K, or a “flow constant”, KF, somewhat analogous to Km, which allows one to predict reaction rates in animals of different metabolic rates. 7. 7. The defining equations are V = k[S] = FK[S] = F[S] K F where V = reaction velocity in mmol/hr/kg tissue, [S] = millimolar substrate concentration in the blood, k = In 2/τ (T the half-life) and F = blood flow in 1/hr/kg tissue. 8. 8. Thus, K = k F = 1 K itF . The KF for the initial step in the degradation of 17 amino acids in rats, dogs, lizards, turtles and alligators were similar, demonstrating the similarity of enzyme affinities in different species.
Earth science: A back-arc in time.

The Eastern Lau spreading centre in the Pacific Ocean is the subject of especial interest. The influence of the neighbouring subduction zone is considerable, but evidently has unexpected limits. See Letter p.198 The Eastern Lau spreading centre, located on the Lau back-arc basin hydrothermal vent system between Fiji and Tonga, is a focus site of the Ridge 2000 research programme of the US National Science Foundation. The first large-scale seismic study of the area reveals large and abrupt across- and along-strike changes in crustal properties, implying correspondingly large discontinuities in the nature of the mantle supplying melt to the ridge axes. The authors conclude that stable, broad triangular upwelling regions, as inferred for mid-ocean ridges, cannot form near the mantle wedge corner. Instead, the observations imply a dynamic process in which the ridge upwelling zone preferentially captures water-rich low-viscosity mantle when it is near the arc. As the ridge moves away from the arc, a tipping point is reached at which the material is rapidly released, resulting in rapid changes in the character of the crust formed at the ridge.
A STUDY OF THE EFFECTS OF LARGE BLOCKING HIGHS ON THE GENERAL CIRCULATION IN THE NORTHERN-HEMISPHERE WESTERLIES

Abstract The basic problems involved in the investigation of the effects of “blocking action” upon the circulation pattern of the northern-hemisphere westerlies are defined and the mode of attack outlined. By application of turbulence principles seasonal variations in lateral mixing and northward heat transport across the westerlies are related to variations in the extent of blocking action. Evidence is presented indicating that blocking action, lateral mixing, and northward heat transport are all greater in the winters of years when strong north–south thermal gradients exist and vice versa. The year-to-year variations in these quantities exhibit a long-period and relatively large amplitude climatic swing with a period of roughly 12–14 years. Considerable year-to-year variation in the radiative properties of the earth's surface and atmosphere, or in incoming radiation, is thus implied. An analysis of heat convergence through the lateral turbulence process shows in general the heart of the westerlies losin...
Tumor Microvasculature and Microenvironment: Novel Insights Through Intravital Imaging in Pre‐Clinical Models

Intravital imaging techniques have provided unprecedented insight into tumor microcirculation and microenvironment. For example, these techniques allowed quantitative evaluations of tumor blood vasculature to uncover its abnormal organization, structure and function (e.g., hyper-permeability, heterogeneous and compromised blood flow). Similarly, imaging of functional lymphatics has documented their absence inside tumors. These abnormalities result in elevated interstitial fluid pressure and hinder the delivery of therapeutic agents to tumors. In addition, they induce a hostile microenvironment characterized by hypoxia and acidosis, as documented by intravital imaging. The abnormal microenvironment further lowers the effectiveness of anti-tumor treatments such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy. In addition to these mechanistic insights, intravital imaging may also offer new opportunities to improve therapy. For example, tumor angiogenesis results in immature, dysfunctional vessels--primarily caused by an imbalance in production of pro- and anti-angiogenic factors by the tumors. Restoring the balance of pro- and anti-angiogenic signaling in tumors can "normalize" tumor vasculature and thus, improve its function, as demonstrated by intravital imaging studies in preclinical models and in cancer patients. Administration of cytotoxic therapy during periods of vascular normalization has the potential to enhance treatment efficacy.
X-Ray Detection of the Symbiotic Star AG Draconis

The symbiotic star AG Draconis was observed by the HEAO-2 Imaging Proportional Counter (IPC) and found to be an unusually intense source of very soft X-rays.
Estimating functional population for facility planning

In estimating the current and future demand for facilities, engineers and planners need to rationalize differences in facility demand by land‐use category. Using unweighted population and employment data to estimate facility needs may result in substantial error. The solution is to properly weight population and employment figures to create a common unit of measure, the functional population, defined as the number of people occupying space in the community on a 24 hr per day, seven‐day‐per‐week basis. By estimating the functional population of a community, estimations of current and future demand for certain facilities can be improved. This paper offers a reasonably convenient method for estimating the functional population for a current and future year. It applies the functional population concept to estimating the current and future demand for fire protection, police, emergency medical, jail and detention, courts, and government administration facilities for a hypothetical community.
Polymers derived from 2-phenyl-1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoropropan-2-ol and its derivatives

Abstract Over the past 25 yr several classes of polymers (epoxy resins, polyurethanes, polyacrylates etc.) derived from aromatic monomers bearing —C(CF 3 ) 2 OH groups have been developed. These materials have exceptional heat, light and chemical resistance in addition to low surface energy, low water absorption and low dielectric constant. They have been suggested for use in a variety of ways such as biological anti-fouling materials, dental composites, cladding for optical fibers, textile impregnants and marine coatings.
Immediate withdrawal from chronic "binge" cocaine administration increases mu-opioid receptor mRNA levels in rat frontal cortex.

An increase in preprodynorphin (ppdyn) mRNA was detected in the caudate putamen of chronically cocaine-treated and 3-h withdrawn rats. An increase in μ-opioid receptor (MOP) mRNA levels was observed in the frontal cortex of 3-h withdrawn rats. Naloxone had no effect on the increase of MOP or ppdyn mRNA levels. The results indicate that the opioid system is altered during early withdrawal from chronic cocaine administration.
Assembly of allosteric macromolecular switches: lessons from PKA

Protein kinases are dynamic molecular switches that have evolved to be only transiently activated. Kinase activity is embedded within a conserved kinase core, which is typically regulated by associated domains, linkers and interacting proteins. Moreover, protein kinases are often tethered to large macromolecular complexes to provide tighter spatiotemporal control. Thus, structural characterization of kinase domains alone is insufficient to explain protein kinase function and regulation in vivo. Recent progress in structural characterization of cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) exemplifies how our knowledge of kinase signalling has evolved by shifting the focus of structural studies from single kinase subunits to macromolecular complexes.
Scleredema: An unusual presentation with edema limited to scalp, upper face, and orbits

infection of the fetus by herpes simplex virus. J PED~ATR 69:30, 1966. 9. South MA, Tompkins WAF, Morris CR, Rawls WE: Congenital malformations of the central nervous system associated with genital (type 2) herpes virus. J PEOIATR 75:13, 1969. 10. Florman AL, Gershon AA, Blackett PR, Nahmias A J: Intrauterine infection with herpes simplex virus: Resultant congenital malformations. JAMA 225:129, 1973. 11. Montgomery JR, Flanders RW, Yow MD: Congenital anomalies and herpes virus infection. AM J Dis Child 126:364, 1973. 12. Komorous JM, Wheeler CE, Briggaman RA, Caro 1: Intrauterine herpes simplex infections. Arch Dermatol 113:918, 1977. 13. Music S1, Fine EM, Togo Y: Zoster-like disease in the newborn due to herpes-simplex virus. N Engl J Med 284:24, 1971.
"Scanning mutagenesis" of the amino acid sequences flanking phosphorylation site 1 of the mitochondrial pyruvate dehydrogenase complex.

The mitochondrial pyruvate dehydrogenase complex is regulated by reversible seryl-phosphorylation of the E1α subunit by a dedicated, intrinsic kinase. The phospho-complex is reactivated when dephosphorylated by an intrinsic PP2C-type protein phosphatase. Both the position of the phosphorylated Ser-residue and the sequences of the flanking amino acids are highly conserved. We have used the synthetic peptide-based kinase client assay plus recombinant pyruvate dehydrogenase E1α and E1α-kinase to perform “scanning mutagenesis” of the residues flanking the site of phosphorylation. Consistent with the results from “phylogenetic analysis” of the flanking sequences, the direct peptide-based kinase assays tolerated very few changes. Even conservative changes such as Leu, Ile, or Val for Met, or Glu for Asp, gave very marked reductions in phosphorylation. Overall the results indicate that regulation of the mitochondrial pyruvate dehydrogenase complex by reversible phosphorylation is an extreme example of multiple, interdependent instances of co-evolution.
Principles of Electrical Stimulation and Dorsal Column Mapping as it Relates to Spinal Cord Stimulation: An Overview

The last 30 years have witnessed the growth of spinal cord stimulation as a treatment modality for an increasing number of chronic pain conditions. In spite of this growth, one of the greatest criticisms is the lack of concrete evidence for the mechanism of action. With the ever increasing enlightenment with regards to the neurophysiology of pain, and the development of more dynamic neuroimaging techniques, the opportunity to better define the mechanism of action of the spinal cord stimulator will continue to expand. In the interim, clinicians will benefit from the consolidation of the available knowledge that will enhance the effective use of the device. This review serves to provide an overview of the key principles of electrical stimulation and dorsal column mapping as it relates to spinal cord stimulation. We aim at enhancing the understanding regarding the basis for successful placement of leads and manipulation of electrical parameters.
Quantitative Genetics and Evolution of Head Shape in Plethodon Salamanders

The evolution of morphological diversity via selection requires that morphological traits display significant heritable genetic variation. In Plethodon salamanders, considerable evidence suggests that head shape evolves in response to selection from interspecific competition, yet the genetic underpinnings of head shape have not been quantitatively examined. Here I used geometric morphometrics and quantitative genetics to assess heritable patterns of head shape variation from hatchling salamanders in two Plethodon species (P. cinereus and P. nettingi). Head shape differed significantly between species and among clutches within species, suggesting that a sizeable proportion of head shape variation was the result of clutch effects. Further, using a full-sib animal model and restricted maximum likelihood (REML), I identified large values of maximal additive heritability for all study localities ( $$ h_{\max }^{2} > 0.65 $$ ), revealing that Plethodon exhibit considerable heritable genetic variation for head shape. Comparisons of the components of heritable shape variation showed that the magnitude of shape heritability ( $$ h_{\max }^{2} $$ ) did not differ among localities or species. Therefore, the potential microevolutionary shape change displayed by the two species would be similar if they were exposed to comparable selective forces. However, the direction of maximal shape heritability in morphospace differed between P. cinereus and P. nettingi, indicating that potential evolutionary shape change along these heritability trajectories would diverge between the two species. This finding implies that distinct head shapes could evolve in the two species, even if subjected to the same selection pressure. When combined with previous knowledge of patterns of head shape variation among species and ecological selection on head shape, these findings suggest that microevolutionary and macroevolutionary trends of morphological diversification in Plethodon may be explained as a result of the interaction between ecological selection and underlying patterns of genetic covariance for this multi-dimensional trait.
Elastic scattering of positive pions on O 16 at 40.0 and 49.7 MeV

Differential cross sections for elastic scattering of positive pions on $^{16}\mathrm{O}$ at 40.0 and 49.7 MeV were measured at about 10\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} intervals for laboratory angles from 25\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} to 160\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}. Relative uncertainties between angles are 3%, with the overall normalization known to 7% for each angular distribution. The angular distributions are similar in shape, being dominated by a minimum at about 60\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}. The differential cross sections are presented along with the results of a partial wave analysis which gives good fits at both 40.0 and 49.7 MeV. The data are also fitted by a simple phenomenological first-order Kisslinger nonlocal optical model calculation.NUCLEAR REACTIONS $^{16}\mathrm{O}({\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+},{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+})^{16}\mathrm{O}$. $E=40.0, 49.7$ MeV, $\ensuremath{\theta}=25\ensuremath{-}160\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}$, measured $\ensuremath{\sigma}(\ensuremath{\theta},E)$. Partial-wave and optical model analyses of $\ensuremath{\sigma}(\ensuremath{\theta},E)$.
Platelet-derived growth factor stimulates activity of low density lipoprotein receptors

Partially purified platelet-derived growth factor stimulates low density lipoprotein binding and degradation in cultured aortic smooth muscle cells of monkeys by increasing the number of available low density lipoprotein receptors. When platelet-derived growth factor was added to quiescent cells, low density lipoprotein binding increased within 4-8 hr. Stimulation of low density lipoprotein receptor activity preceded stimulation of DNA synthesis by platelet-derived growth factor by 8-12 hr. Enhancement of endogenous cholesterol synthesis by platelet-derived growth factor preceded stimulation of low density lipoprotein receptor activity. These findings suggest that the platelet-derived growth factor can increase both the exogenous and endogenous supplies of cholesterol to the cell for its use during cell proliferation.
Octupole vibrations of deformed even nuclei

Abstract To explain the systematic occurence of K = 0- and K = 2- bands in deformed even nuclei, the nuclear surface is assumed to have two octupole degrees of freedom, corresponding to the spherical harmonics Y30 and Y3±2, in addition to the β and γ quadrupole degrees of freedom. An approximate Hamiltonian, valid for small oscillations about a spheroidal equilibrium shape, is constructed with the hydrodynamic moments of inertia. Separation of the Schrodinger equation immediately gives β vibrations (K = 0+, I = 0, 2, 4, …) and “b vibrations” (K = 0-, I = 1, 3, 5, …). The remaining equation is solved formally as a degenerate perturbation problem. The result gives rise to two bands with K = 2, which are interpreted as the γ vibrational band (K = 2+) and a “g vibrational band” (K = 2-), both with spin sequence I = 2, 3, 4,…. The theory is consistent with experiment in the strongly deformed regions.
Genetic variation in body weight gain and composition in the intercross of Large (LG/J) and Small (SM/J) inbred strains of mice

Strain intercross experiments provide a powerful means for mapping genes affecting complex quantitative traits. We report on the genetic variability of the intercross of the Large (LG/J) and Small (SM/J) inbred mouse strains as a guide to gene mapping studies. Ten SM/J males were crossed to 10 LG/J females, after which animals were randomly mated to produce F1, F2, and F3 intercross generations. The 1632 F3 animals from 200 full-sib families were used to estimate heritabilities and genetic correlations of the traits measured. A subset of families was cross-fostered at birth to allow measurement of the importance of post-natal maternal effects. Data was collected on weekly body weight from one to 10 weeks and on organ weights, body weight, reproductive fat pad weight, and tail length at necropsy in the intercross generations. There was no heterosis for age-specific weights or necropsy traits, except that one-week weight was the highest in the F2 generation, indicating heterosis for maternal effect in the F1 mothers. We found moderate to high heritability for most age-specific weights and necropsy traits. Maternal effects were significant for age-specific weights from one to four weeks but disappeared completely at ten-week weight. Maternal effects for necropsy traits were low and not statistically significant. Age-specific weights showed a typical correlation pattern, with correlation declining as the difference in ages increased. Among necropsy traits, reproductive fat pad and body weights were very highly genetically correlated. Most other genetic correlations were low to moderate. The intercross between SM/J and LG/J inbred mouse strains provides a valuable resource for mapping quantitative trait loci for body size, composition, and morphology
The direct solution of the discrete Poisson equation on the surface of a sphere

Abstract The solution of Poisson's equation on the surface of a sphere may not exist unless the right side of the equation is perturbed. A method for perturbing is described which then admits a least squares solution. This least squares solution is obtained by the Fourier method which is economical in both computational time and storage.
A crystalline oxide passivation for Al2O3/AlGaN/GaN

In situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and low energy electron diffraction are performed to study the formation of a crystalline oxide on the AlGaN surface. The oxidation of the AlGaN surface is prepared by annealing and remote N2 + O2 plasma pretreatments resulting in a stable crystalline oxide. The impact of the oxide on the interface state density is studied by capacitance voltage (C-V) measurements. It is found that a remote plasma exposure at 550 °C shows the smallest frequency dispersion. Crystalline oxide formation may provide a novel passivation method for high quality AlGaN/GaN devices.
The intelligibility of pointillistic speech

A form of processed speech is described that is highly discriminable in a closed-set identification format. The processing renders speech into a set of sinusoidal pulses played synchronously across frequency. The processing and results from several experiments are described. The number and width of frequency analysis channels and tone-pulse duration were variables. In one condition, various proportions of the tones were randomly removed. The processed speech was remarkably resilient to these manipulations. This type of speech may be useful for examining multitalker listening situations in which a high degree of stimulus control is required.
Practical Use of Vaccines to Prevent Infection with Influenza Virus and Streptococcus pneumoniae

Effective vaccines for the prevention of influenza and pneumococcal disease are available. Inactivated influenza vaccines should be administered yearly to those at high risk for influenza-related complications, including the elderly and those with chronic cardiac, pulmonary, and selected other conditions. Pneumococcal capsular polysaccharide vaccines should be administered once to individuals at high risk for pneumococcal disease or complications, including the elderly, individuals with pulmonary or cardiac conditions, and immunocompromised individuals, particularly those with splenic dysfunction. More effective vaccines for both pathogens are currently being developed, and show promise for further reducing the impact of these public health problems.
Pervaporation–air stripping hybrid process for removal of VOCs from groundwater

Abstract The removal of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from contaminated groundwater usually involves treating dilute multicomponent solutions. Air stripping removes the more volatile components effectively. Pervaporation can be designed such that it removes the less volatile components effectively. Thus, the two processes are complementary. A pervaporation–air stripping hybrid process is proposed. A general process design procedure for a binary feed solution is outlined. Sensitivity analysis is carried out with respect to several parameters. From the analysis, it is concluded that the retentate should be returned to the same point on the column from where the pervaporation feed is withdrawn. Also, for this configuration, the optimum rate of removal of the liquid from the column, for treatment using pervaporation, is equal to the liquid flow rate in the column. The optimum values of the remaining parameters depend upon economic considerations. A similar approach can be used for multicomponent feed solutions.
Optimization of energy storage systems in HEV's

This paper introduces a novel battery model inspired by molecular structures mainly for applications in HEV's. This novel 3-D adaptive battery topology shows potential for improvement in input and output performance as well as the charging/ discharging efficiency of batteries. The proposed topology provides flexible connections between battery cells to achieve different configurations of battery. A new switching matrix has been developed to achieve the required configurations. Preliminary simulations provide promising results for an adaptive 3-D battery configuration. Comparison between traditional battery configurations and the adaptive 3-D configuration is considered. A significant improvement in power curves is achieved by the proposed topology.
Isolation and characterization of subunits of human Clq

Abstract Extensive reduction and alkylation of purified Clq from human serum by urea, dithiothreitol and iodoacetamide resulted in three subunits. The estimated molecular weight of these subunits by sodium dodecyl sulfate-acrylamide gel electrophoresis was found to be 29 000, 27 000 and 22 000, respectively. The complete amino acid analysis of these subunits indicates the presence of hydroxyproline and a high amount of glycine in all three subunits. Hydroxylysine was found to be present only in the 29 000 and 27 000 molecular weight peptide. The 22 000 molecular weight peptide was found to contain an additional unidentified basic amino acid. The carbohydrate compositions of the three subunits indicate the presence of amino sugars, sialic acid, galactose and glucose in the 29 000 molecular weight peptide. The 27 000 molecular weight peptide contained amino sugars, glucose and sialic acid, whereas the 22 000 molecular weight peptide contained no carbohydrate. The data indicate that Clq is an unique glycoprotein which has no similarity in composition to hydroxylated peptides found in human alveoli, basement membrane or collagen.
The Chinese hamster dihydrofolate reductase replication origin beta is active at multiple ectopic chromosomal locations and requires specific DNA sequence elements for activity.

To identify cis-acting genetic elements essential for mammalian chromosomal DNA replication, a 5.8-kb fragment from the Chinese hamster dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) locus containing the origin beta (ori-β) initiation region was stably transfected into random ectopic chromosomal locations in a hamster cell line lacking the endogenous DHFR locus. Initiation at ectopic ori-β in uncloned pools of transfected cells was measured using a competitive PCR-based nascent strand abundance assay and shown to mimic that at the endogenous ori-β region in Chinese hamster ovary K1 cells. Initiation activity of three ectopic ori-β deletion mutants was reduced, while the activity of another deletion mutant was enhanced. The results suggest that a 5.8-kb fragment of the DHFR ori-β region is sufficient to direct initiation and that specific DNA sequences in the ori-β region are required for efficient initiation activity.
Structure And Motion From Two Perspective Views Via Planar Patch

We present a method which uses both a planar patch and points for an analysis of time-varying imagery. From our theory, two pieces of information are required for the unique recovery of structure from motion. One is the image motion of a plane and the other one is the image motion of points not on the plane. For the former, one needs four points while for the latter one need two points. Our technique has the following characteristics: (i) it is efficient, (ii) it appears to be very robust over a wide range of simulations, (iii) it sheds some new light on some previous work, and (iv) it has geometric meaning for each step of the derivation of the solution.
Integration of tunable capacitors and bonded-wires for contactless RF switch and tunable filter

This paper describes a contactless RF MEMS switch, composed of two surface-micromachined tunable capacitors and two bonded-wire inductors, which can achieve a power isolation ratio of 10 dB with a capacitance variation of mere 4∶1 over a narrow bandwidth near 2.4 GHz. This novel approach of using inductors eases the deflection requirement for the deformable bridge for the variable capacitor, and allows piezoelectric ZnO film to be used to deflect the capacitor bridge to vary the air gap, thus yielding a contactless RF switch.
Aerobic production of methane in the sea

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that has contributed approximately 20% to the Earth’s warming since pre-industrial times. The world’s oceans are an important source of methane, comprising 1–4% of annual global emissions. But despite its global significance, oceanic methane production is poorly understood. In particular, methane concentrations in the surface waters of most of the world’s oceans are supersaturated with respect to atmospheric concentrations, but the origin of this methane, which has been thought to be produced exclusively in anaerobic environments, is not known. Here, we measure methane production in seawater samples amended with methylphosphonate, an organic, phosphorus-containing compound. We show that methane is produced aerobically as a by-product of methylphosphonate decomposition in phosphate-stressed waters. Methylphosphonate decomposition, and thus methane production, may be enhanced by the activity of nitrogen-fixing microorganisms. We suggest that aerobic marine methane production will be sensitive to the changes in water-column stratification and nutrient limitation that are likely to result from greenhouse-gas-induced ocean warming. Surface waters of most of the world’s oceans are supersaturated with respect to atmospheric methane. Measurements in seawater samples suggest that an aerobic methane production pathway, which involves the decomposition of phosphorus-containing organic compounds, may be responsible.
Evaluation of the Chick Bio-Assay for Estimating Sulfur Amino Acid, Lysine, and Tryptophan Availability in Soybean Meal

Abstract Chick growth assays based on 9 to 13 day, 9 to 15 day and 9 to 17 day posthatching weight gains were used to determine the effect of the bio-assay time periods, using the slope-ratio technique, on the relative availability of sulfur amino acids, lysine, and tryptophan in soybean meal. Eight day bio-assays produced the highest availability estimates. Availability estimates for sulfur amino acids, lysine, and tryptophan in soybean meal were 88.46% (8 day-bioassay) vs. 74.41% (4 day-bioassay), 83.23% (8 day-bioassay) vs. 77.42% (6 day-bioassay) and 90.02% (8 day-bioassay) vs. 86.66% (6 day-bioassay), respectively. By measuring growth response of chicks fed reference standard diets as compared with that of chicks fed control diets containing equivalent levels of amino acids determined in soybean meal, the effect of excess amino acids in soybean meal on the sulfur amino acid availability estimate for soybean meal was determined. Excess amino acids did not influence the availability estimate for sulfur amino acids in soybean meal. The relative sulfur amino acid availability estimates of chicks fed excess crystalline amino acids which simulated the amino acidcomposition of soybean meal was 100.96%, as compared with 88.46% for the relative sulfur amino acid and availability estimate for soybean, as determined by the slope-ratio technique.
Peripheral ischemia as a complicating factor during somatosensory and motor evoked potential monitoring of aortic surgery.

HE incidence of paraplegia following aortic surgery is reported to vary between 2% and 25%.lm4 This reported incidence has made intraoperative spinal cord monitoring an area of interest.5-9 Two monitoring modalities, somatosensory evoked potentials (SEP) and motor evoked potentials (MEP), can detect ischemia of nervous system structures. Of these, the SEP, although controversial, is used most for both experimental and clinical monitoring of aortic aneurysm surgery.5-i0 The SEP monitors physiologic integrity of the peripheral nerve, from the site of stimulation to the cerebral cortex, via the dorsal columns of the spinal cord. The most sensitive area of the spinal cord to ischemia is the anterior horn area, as shown by the distribution of postoperative spinal cord injury.” Although some investigators have suggested that a steal of blood from the posterior to anterior spinal cord may occur during aortic cross-clamping, changes in SEPs will, at best, indirectly monitor ischemia of the motor areas1*J3 Hence, SEP monitoring has yielded low specificity and sensitivity to postoperative neurologic deficits in the absence of shunt or partial bypass use during these operations.r4J5 As suggested by McNulty et a1,r3 use of these operative adjuncts, however, does in part improve the predictive value of SEP monitoring for postoperative neurologic deficits. Recent investigations have used MEPs induced by electrical stimulation to monitor spinal cord function during aortic occlusion.16-ia Monitoring MEPs may be more sensitive than SEPs to spinal cord ischemia. Clinical examples using magnetic transcranially induced MEPs in humans during aortic aneurysm surgery have yet to be reported. An often neglected factor in spinal cord monitoring is that an insult to any part of the nervous system pathway that is monitored will result in a change in the evoked potentials.19 Ischemia to the peripheral nervous system is an important factor that must be addressed during future clinical investigations involving evoked potential monitoring of aortic aneurysm surgery. Two cases are presented, one in which SEPs alone and one in which both SEPs and MEPs were monitored during aortic surgery. Both cases demonstrate the importance of peripheral ischemia as a possible explanation for changes in SEPs and/or MEPs during aortic surgery.
Evidence of Common Progenitors and Patterns of Dispersion in Rat Striatum and Cerebral Cortex

To correlate clonal patterns in the rat striatum with adult neuronal phenotypes, we labeled striatal progenitors between embryonic day 14 (E14) and E19 with a retroviral library encoding alkaline phosphatase. In the adult striatum, the majority of E14-labeled neurons (87%) were members of discrete horizontal or radial cell clusters. Radial clusters accounted for only 23% of cell clusters but >34% of labeled cells. Striatal clones also demonstrated an unexpected widespread pattern of clonal dispersion. The majority of striatal clones were widely dispersed within the striatum, and 80% of clones were part of even larger clones that included cortical interneurons. Finally, we observed that PCR-positive cortical interneurons were members of clones containing both interneurons and pyramids (44%), exclusively interneuron clones (24%), or combined striatal–cortical clones (16%), consistent with the view that cortical interneurons have multiple origins in differentially behaving progenitor cells. Our data are also consistent with the notion that similar mechanisms underpin striatal and cortical development.
Pore size controls on the base of the methane hydrate stability zone in the Kumano Basin, offshore Japan

The base of the methane hydrate stability zone (MHSZ) in the Kumano Basin, offshore Japan, is marked by a bottom-simulating reflection (BSR) on seismic data. At Integrated Ocean Drilling Program Site C0002, which penetrates this BSR, the in situ temperature profile combined with bulk seawater methane equilibrium conditions suggest that the base of the MHSZ is 428 m below seafloor (bsf), which is 28 m deeper than the observed BSR (400 m bsf). We found that submicron pore sizes determined by mercury injection capillary pressure are sufficiently small to cause 64% of the observed uplift of the base of the MHSZ by the Gibbs-Thomson effect. This is the most thorough characterization of pore sizes within the MHSZ performed to date and illustrates the extent to which pore size can influence MHSZ thickness. Our results demonstrate the importance of considering lithology and pore structure when assessing methane hydrate stability conditions in marine sediments.
Residence Half-Life of IgG Administered Topically to the Mouse Vagina'

Antibodies delivered directly to the vagina can provide passive immunoprotection against pregnancy and sexually transmitted disease. The duration of protection is limited by the residence time of the antibodies in the vagina; to our knowledge such residence times have not been reported. We investigated the time-course of disappearance of IgG delivered to the mouse vagina using three different methods to monitor the amount of administered IgG remaining in the vagina: gamma counting of 125I-IgG, viral neutralization of unlabeled monoclonal anti-herpes virus IgG2a, and ELISA of biotinylated IgG. The test IgG was delivered to the vagina in saline and recovered by lavage. All three methods yielded similar results, suggesting that the residence half-life is not significantly affected by the volume administered, phase of the estrous cycle, or labeling of IgG. In awake mice, a significant fraction of IgG disappeared with a relatively short half-life, (t1/2)alpha, of 0.7 +/- 0.1 h; but this rapid (alpha phase) decrease did not occur in anesthetized mice, suggesting that the movements of awake mice expel some of the test IgG-saline solution from the vagina. Over the next 25 h, the test IgG disappeared with a residence half-life, (t1/2)beta, of 5 +/- 2 h. We believe this slow elimination of IgG may depend on the rate that mucus secretions are shed from the vagina.
Mercury in fishes of Alaska, with emphasis on subsistence species

In the north, the presence of mercury (Hg) in food leading to chronic exposure is a scientific, economic and political issue. Guidelines have been established for the safe consumption of fish containing Hg, however, adherence to these guidelines must be weighed against the health benefits of consuming fish, such as from the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. Alaskan Natives generally consume much more fish than the national average. This review summarizes and synthesizes the significant amount of data that has been generated on Hg in Alaska fish, particularly those consumed by Alaskans. Also included are a review of the benefits of eating fish, human health concerns relating to Hg toxicity and various risk assessment guidelines for food consumption. Emphasis was placed on methylmercury (MeHg), the most toxic form to humans. Hg concentrations were examined in 17 freshwater fish species and 24 anadromous and marine fish species, for a total of 2692 specimens. For freshwater fish the greatest database was on northern pike (Esox lucius). For anadromous and marine fish the greatest database was on Pacific halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis) and the five species of Pacific salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.). Overall, most fish had muscle Hg concentrations of ≤ 1m g kg −1 (wet wt.), within the USFDA's Action Level and Alaska's guideline for safe concentrations of MeHg in edible fish. Pacific salmon, the most commonly consumed fish group, had exceptionally low (≤0.1 mg kg −1 ) Hg concentrations. Pacific halibut muscle Hg content was less than 0.3 mg kg −1 . Northern pike, a piscivorous (fish-eating) and long-lived fish, contained the highest muscle Hg values, often exceeding the state's guidelines for food consumption. A discussion of the safe consumption level for pike is included. © 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Fabrication of Highly Ordered Silicon Oxide Dots and Stripes from Block Copolymer Thin Films

A general route to fabricate highly ordered arrays of nanoscopic silicon oxide dots and stripes (see figure) from block copolymer thin films is described. Poly(styrene-b-4-vinylpyridine) thin films with cylindrical microdomains oriented normal and parallel to the surface were used as templates for the fabrication of nanoscopic silicon oxide, with polydimethylsiloxane as the inorganic precursor.
Improving the role of hematopoietic support for high-dose cytotoxic therapy.

Dose intensification of cytotoxic drugs is now being evaluated in several trials. Various methods are available to manage the hematopoietic toxicity. Hematopoietic growth factors can be used alone and / or in combination with hematopoietic stem cell rescue. Patients undergoing autologous stem cell transplantation (AuSCT) have their own bone marrow and / or peripheral blood used for hematopoietic engraft-ment. In several malignancies, the bone barrow is involved with tumor, and in such situations, the success of AuSCT may improve if hematopoietic elements are enriched (positive selection) or if contaminating cancer cells are purged by negative selection. In patients undergoing allogeneic bone marrow transplantation, T lymphocytes, from donor cells, contribute to the development of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), which can result in major morbidity and mortality. The incidence of GVHD has decreased with selective purging of T lymphocytes, but further modifications are needed to improve hematopoietic engra...
Technical aspects of segmental pancreatic grafting in rats

Four techniques for segmental pancreatic transplantation were used sequentially in rats. The success rate and the incidence and type of technical complications that developed in each group of recipients were determined and attempts were made to improve the microsurgical technique. A strict comparison of the relative merits of the four different techniques was not made, but rather the development of an approach to an original technique that resulted in a high success is rate presented. The various modifications and details of this experience are documented. The various complications, each of which results in a typical postoperative pattern of weight and plasma glucose changes and each of which is preventable by the use of proper microsurgical techniques, are also analyzed.
The Composition of Boards of Directors and Strategic Control: Effects on Corporate Strategy

Boards of directors of large corporations provide a governance safeguard to both equity capital and managerial employment contracts. Thus, the board is a potentially important instrument of internal control. This article develops theory and propositions concerning (a) the relation among ownership, managerial control, and the composition of the boards of directors; (b) the relation between the composition of the boards and control strategies (strategic versus financial controls); and (c) the relation among choice of control, corporate strategy, and strategic choice.
Are statins associated with decreased tooth loss in chronic periodontitis

Aim To evaluate whether statin use was associated with decreased tooth loss among patients with chronic periodontitis. Material and methods We evaluated administrative health plan data from 1996 to 2002 covering dental and periodontal treatment utilization, dental extractions, and prescription medication fills of 12,631 adults aged 48-64 in 2002. With tooth loss as the outcome, we evaluated a number of different patterns of statin prescription across time in multivariate generalized linear models. Results Unadjusted, statin use was associated with increased tooth loss. After adjustment for potential confounders, there was no suggestion of either increased or decreased tooth loss associated with statin use. Conclusions Statin use was not associated with either a decreased or an increased risk of tooth loss.
Revisiting the fantasy-reality distinction: Children as naïve skeptics

Far from being the uncritical believers young children have been portrayed as, children often exhibit skepticism toward the reality status of novel entities and events. This article reviews research on children's reality status judgments, testimony use, understanding of possibility, and religious cognition. When viewed from this new perspective it becomes apparent that when assessing reality status, children are as likely to doubt as they are to believe. It is suggested that immature metacognitive abilities are at the root of children's skepticism, specifically that an insufficient ability to evaluate the scope and relevance of one's knowledge leads to an overreliance on it in evaluating reality status. With development comes increasing ability to utilize a wider range of sources to inform reality status judgments.