cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
RUMINANT NUTRITION SYMPOSIUM: How to use data on the rumen microbiome to improve our understanding of ruminant nutrition

Metagenomics and high-throughput sequencing have greatly expanded our knowledge of the rumen microbiome. Surveys of all 4 cellular microbial groups (bacteria, archaea, protozoa, and fungi) reveal profound diversity. Even so, evidence exists for core members to perform key degradative or fermentative roles for the host. Some core members are functionally similar yet taxonomically diverse, and noncore members are particularly diverse and probably vary among diets, animals, and over time after feeding. Gains in functional knowledge are being made and offer much potential not only to improve fiber digestibility, decrease methane emissions, and improve efficiency of nitrogen usage but also to help explain the differences in nutrient digestibility or feed efficiency among animals fed the same diet. Integrated research using metagenomics, bioinformatics, traditional ruminant nutrition, and statistical inferences have provided opportunities for ruminant nutritionists and rumen microbiologists to work synergistically to improve nutrient utilization efficiency while minimizing output of wastes and emissions of methane and ammonia. Examples we highlight include residual feed intake, rumen biohydrogenation of unsaturated fatty acids, and dietary inclusion of ionophores. However, there are still some quantitative limitations in approaches being used. This review addresses knowledge gained and current limitations and challenges that remain.
Computer control of a steam surface pasteurization process

Abstract Flash steam heating followed by evaporative cooling can be used to pasteurize only the surface of processed meat products. This paper describes a process control scheme used to determine the treatment time in a pilot-scale pasteurization chamber. The control system used a model for microbial death to compute, in real-time, the treatment time required to give products that have a specified reduction in the bacterial population. The system was tested by treating frankfurters inoculated with a known population of bacteria. With low inoculum levels, the control system was shown to give products that had the specified reduction in the bacterial population, and only minimal changes in the product appearance.
An assay for the α-tocopherol binding protein mediated transfer of vitamin E between membranes☆

Abstract A model system consisting of donor membrane (egg lecithin liposomes) and acceptor membrane (human erythrocyte ghosts or rat liver mitochondria) were used to investigate the α-tocopherol binding protein (αTBP) mediated transfer of α-tocopherol. Liposomes containing RRR -[α- 3 H]tocopherol ([α- 3 H]T) were incubated with acceptor membrane at 37°C for 0–45 min in the presence or absence of rat liver cytosol or a dialyzed 30–60% saturated ammonium sulfate precipitated fraction of rat liver cytosol (Fraction B). Erythrocyte ghosts and liver mitochondria were compared and found to behave similarly in the presence of Fraction B. α-Tocopherol transfer activity (αTTA) typically varied 0- to 27-fold greater than buffer blanks, depending upon type and concentration of protein preparation. Gel filtration of Fraction B yielded one αTTA peak (liver mitochondria as acceptor) with an estimated M r of 39,000. [α- 3 H]T recovered from erythrocyte ghosts pellets by HPLC suggest that the [α- 3 H]T was transferred intact. αTTA of Fraction B in the presence of varying concentrations of erythrocyte ghosts and liposomal [α- 3 H]T followed saturation kinetics. Optimal concentrations gave αTTA responses directly proportional to rat liver cytosol concentration. αTTA was inhibited only 5% in the presence of a 32-fold excess of cold liposomal α-tocopheryl acetate suggesting that the free hydroxyl group on the chromanol ring of α-tocopherol is needed for transfer. Coefficient of variation of repeated measures of αTTA in rat liver cytosol was 2.9%. Thus, the intermembrane transfer phenomenon of α-tocopherol can be studied uantitatively and can be used to compare liver protein preparations exhibiting transfer activity.
PROCOLLAGEN–BIOCHEMICAL MARKER OF GROWTH IN ENTERALLY FED VLBW INFANTS

12 AGA 28-32 week gestation infants were studied during the first 2-3 mos. of life to determine the effect of feeding premature human milk (HM), fortified premature human milk (FHM) and Similac Special Care (SSC) on growth and bone mineralization. Alkaline phosphatase (AP), tubular reabsorption of phosphate (TRP), urinary calcium excretion (uCa), serum phosphorus (P), and type I procollagen (PC) were measured. Mean results: Poor wt gain in the HM gp was associated with a significantly lower PC. The FHM gp grew as well and had similar PC levels as the SSC gp but like the HM gp exhibited biochemical evidence of phosphorus deficiency and inadequate bone mineralization: decreased P and increased AP, TRP and uCa. The data suggest that current special formulae designed for VLBW infants promote better growth and mineralization than HM or FHM and PC may prove a useful marker of optimal growth response.
Nonequilibrium Effects and Multiphase Flow in Porous Media

In this paper we develop a more general formulation for transient multiphase flow in porous media based on physics observed in core-scale and micromodel experiments. We account for non-equilibrium effects by considering redistribution time and treat saturation by evolving locally moving time-averages of the saturation. Several families of models arise from approximations to the general formulation with various degrees of accuracy. The classical Buckley-Leverett and Barenblatt expressions are special cases of these families. We explore the behaviors of a number of special cases arising from the proposed general formulation using established and novel numerical schemes that provide nonlinear physics-based preconditioning. The agreement observed between numerical and experimental results demonstrates the consistency of the proposed abstraction.
Alveolar soft part sarcoma presenting as a breast mass in a 13-year-old female

Adolescent patients with breast lesions represent a unique population of patients whose differential diagnoses differ from adults. We report a clinically unsuspected case of alveolar soft part sarcoma (ASPS) presenting in the breast of a 13-year-old female. ASPS is a rare neoplasm that is usually present in the head, neck, or lower extremities. This rare case presentation gives us the opportunity to review the differential diagnosis of adolescent breast lesions. We also will review diagnostic features of ASPS on fine-needle aspiration. These are relatively rare disease processes about which many cytopathology professionals may be unfamiliar. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2009. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Variations in urinary gamma glutamyl transferase/urinary creatinine ratio in horses with or without pleuropneumonia treated with gentamicin.

The urinary GGT/urinary creatinine (uGGT/uCR) ratio was measured on Days 1, 3 and 10 in 4 adult, healthy horses; in 6 adult, healthy horses treated with gentamicin at recommended dosages and 9 adult horses treated for pleuropneumonia with gentamicin at recommended dosages. Plasma creatinine and gentamicin trough concentrations were measured on the same days. The uGGT/uCr ratio was higher in the normal horses (mean +/- s.d. 22.85 +/- 13.69) than previously reported normal values (10.5 +/- 6.8) (Adams and McClure 1985). Analysis of variance for repeated measures was used to compare the ratio in the 3 groups while controlling for the effect of time. Sick horses had a significantly higher uGGT/uCr ratio than either of the 2 groups of normal horses. Both groups of horses that were treated with gentamicin had similar percentage increases in uGGT/uCr ratio over the treatment period with the most marked increases found between treatment Days 1 and 3. The increase in uGGT/Cr ratio was predominantly a result of an increase in uGGT activity rather than a decrease in uCr concentration. The increase in uGGT activity and uGGT/uCr ratio occurred without abnormalities in serum creatinine or gentamicin trough concentrations. These findings demonstrate that urine GGT activity and uGGT/uCr ratio should be expected to increase in response to gentamicin therapy at recommended dosages without measurable changes in serum creatinine. This suggests that an elevation of the uGGT/uCr ratio in horses being treated with gentamicin would not necessarily require changes in, or withdrawal of, the gentamicin treatment as long as increases in the plasma creatinine do not exceed 0.3 g/l and gentamicin trough concentrations are < 2 micrograms/l.
Functional disability among older women with fecal incontinence

Objective The prevalence of functional disability for basic activities of daily living (ADLs) in older women with fecal incontinence (FI) is not well characterized. Our objective was to determine the prevalence of functional disability among community-dwelling older women with FI. Study Design We conducted a secondary database analysis of the 2005-2006 National Social Life, Health and Aging Project, a cross-sectional study of community-dwelling older adults that had been conducted by single in-home interviews. FI was defined as an affirmative answer to the question, "Have you lost control of your bowels (stool incontinence or anal incontinence)?" with a frequency of "at least monthly." We then examined functional status. Women were asked about 7 basic ADLs. Statistical analyses with percentage estimates and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were performed. Results We included 1412 women in our analysis. FI, at least monthly, was reported by 5.5% of community-dwelling older women (n = 77); 63.2% (95% CI, 50.1–76.4) of the women with FI reported difficulty or dependence with ≥1 ADLs, and 31.2% (95% CI, 18.9–43.6) of the women specifically reported difficulty or dependence with using the toilet. After adjustment for age category, race/ethnicity, education level, women with FI had 2.6 increased odds (95% CI, 1.26–5.35) of difficulty or dependence compared with women with no FI. Other significant risk factors for increased functional difficulty/dependence included obesity (body mass index, ≥30 kg/m 2 ) and depressive symptoms. Conclusion Consistent with other large epidemiologic studies, we found monthly FI was reported by 5.5% of older women (n/N = 77/1412). More than 60% of community-dwelling older women with FI report functional difficulty or dependence with ≥1 ADL and specifically; more than 30% of women with FI report difficulty or dependence using/reaching the toilet. Because of the high prevalence of functional disability in older women with FI, we purpose that initial evaluation and treatment of FI may be improved by considering functional status.
CALMODULIN AND THE PLASMA MEMBRANE CALCIUM PIIMP

The data summarized and presented in this paper are consistent with the interpretation that CaM participates in the regulation of the plasma membrane calcium pump. Certain drugs, such as phenothiazines can antagonize CaM. Ca2+ loading of RBCs promotes CaM binding to RBC membranes and results in decreased responsiveness of the [Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase to CaM. The latter effect may be mediated by a Ca2+ activated transglutaminase. Activation of (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase by CaM in vitro was shown not to be instantaneous, probably because of slow binding. CaM binding to isolated RBC membranes exhibits a Ca2+ dependence that is similar to that for activation of the (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase, and CaM binding does not decrease at high [Ca2+]s. Calculations based on assumed values for RBC [Ca2+], [CaM], and binding affinities of Ca2+ for CaM and CaM(Ca2+)n for the Ca2+ pump ATPase resulted in the tentative conclusion that most pump sites are occupied by CaM in the RBC in vivo. This conclusion, and the relatively slow time course of the CaM effect on (Ca2+ + Mg2+)-ATPase prompt us to suggest that, for all practical purposes, CaM is a subunit of the Ca2+ pump ATPase in vivo.
The Inclusive World of Music: Students With Disabilities and Multiculturalism

The Tanglewood and Housewright Symposia concluded that music programs should include music from other cultures, as well as teach students of all abilities. Yet teachers sometimes feel uncomfortable attending to both of these values. Some music teachers have found creative solutions to incorporating world music into their curriculum for students with disabilities. Two case studies regarding steel band and taiko drumming are discussed. Advice for teachers of students with disabilities is also included.
Compressibility of Binary Alkali Borate and Silicate Glasses at High Pressures

Isothermal compressibility data at 21°C. at pressures between 1000 and 10,000 atmospheres are reported for the binary alkali borate and silicate glass systems. In general, a decreasing compressibility is noted with increasing alkali content in both silicates and borates, the effect being much greater in the borates in the range of compositions studied. A maximum compressibility appears to be indicated for the potassium silicates at low potassium concentrations. In silicates and at high alkali contents in the borates, the order of compressibility is K > Na > Li. At low alkali contents in the borates, this order appears to be reversed. Possible interpretations of these data are discussed in terms of the concepts of the structura of glasses.
α-adrenergic inhibition of cyclic AMP accumulation in hamster adipocytes similarity of receptor with α-2 adrenergic receptors

Abstract The present communication shows the effects of several α-adrenergic agonists and antagonists on cyclic AMP levels in hamster epididymal adipocytes. In response to ACTH (30 mU/ml) in combination with 1-methyl-3-isobutylxanthine (0.10 mM) or adenosine deaminase (1.0 μg/ml), cyclic AMP levels increased to a maximum by 10 min and this level was maintained for another 20 min. Elevated cyclic AMP levels were partially suppressed by the α-adrenergic agents clonidine, methoxamine, methyl norepinephrine and phenylephrine. The lowest effective concentration of each of these agonists required to suppress cyclic AMP levels was 10 nM clonidine; 3 μM methoxamine; 10 μM methyl norepinephrine; 10 μM phenylephrine. Clonidine and methoxamine suppressed cyclic AMP levels by nearly 65% while phenylephrine and methyl norepinephrine caused only a 30% decline. Studies of the relative potencies of α-adrenergic blocking drugs on prevention of the inhibitory effect of clonidine on cyclic AMP levels disclosed that phentolamine and yohimbine were more potent blockers of clonidine action than phenoxybenzamine and prazosin. The rank order of potencies of agonists at causing suppression of cyclic AMP levels and the rank order of potencies of antagonists of clonidine action suggest similarity of the α-adrenergic receptors present on hamster adipocytes, which affect cyclic AMP accumulation to α-2 adrenergic receptors.
Tuberculous peripheral arteritis associated with tuberculous thrombophlebitis in the lungs

Abstract Tuberculous arteritis of large peripheral arteries is frequently associated with aneurysm. In two of the twenty reported cases acid-fast bacilli were demonstrated. A case of tuberculous arteritis as the result of embolism from tuberculous thrombophlebitis of pulmonary veins is reported. No aneurysm was present. The lumen of the artery was filled with a caseous white thrombus, and there were areas of inflammation and caseous necrosis in the intima and media and proliferation of connective tissue and vascular endothelium, with infiltration of lymphocytes and epithelioid cells in the adventitia. No foreign-body giant cells were seen. Tubercle bacilli were demonstrated in the white thrombus, in the arterial wall, and in the lesions of generalized miliary tuberculosis.
Is rhodanese important in the detoxification of dietary cyanide in southern armyworm (Spodoptera eridania cramer) larvae

Abstract Rhodanese (thiosulphate:cyanide sulphur transferase, EC 2.8.1.1) activity is evenly distributed in midgut, fat body and Malpighian tubules of the southern armyworm (Spodoptera eridania Cramer) larvae. The activity level is similar to that of the rat small intestine, whereas rat liver has about a ten-fold higher activity than any insect tissue studied. The activity in the southern armyworm midgut remains constant from the fourth instar larva through the pupal and adult lifestages and there is no change in activity during moults. This activity is not inducible by dietary cyanide or by dietary sulphur donors including thiosulphate, methionine, and cysteine. Dietary supplements of l -valine, the precursor of the lima bean cyanogenic glycoside linamarin or of benzaldehyde, constituent of the widely occurring plant cyanogenic aglycone mandelonitrile, were also without inducing effect. There is no apparent relationship between rhodanese activity levels in insects and their feeding habits as omnivores, carnivores, or herbivores. Neither is there any apparent correlation between rhodanese activity and feeding specialization on highly cyanogenic foliage.
The tectopontine projection in the rat with comments on visual pathways to the basilar pons

The projection from the superior and inferior colliculi to the basilar pons in the rat was studied with the technique of orthograde transport of labeled amino acids and autoradiography. Injections restricted to the medial or lateral regions of the superior colliculus gave rise to grain labeling representing terminal fields over the ipsilateral peduncular, dorsolateral, and ventrolateral regions of the caudal basilar pons and over the dorsomedial area of the contralateral nucleus reticularis tegmenti pontis (NRTP). The pontine projection from the superior colliculus to the lateral basilar pons is topographically organized; the medial superior colliculus projects primarily to the peduncular region, whereas the lateral superior colliculus terminates chiefly in ventrolateral pontine areas. A projection from the superior colliculus to the contralateral dorsomedial pontine and medial peduncular pontine regions, a previously undescribed finding, has also been shown. Descending fibers from the inferior colliculus do not appear to terminate extensively within the basilar pons but rather course adjacent to pontine cells of the dorsolateral region in the caudal pons. Pretectal nuclei project ipsilaterally to medial and lateral nuclei in the rostral and middle basilar pons, respectively. A rostrocaudal topography exists in the tectopontine projection; the pretectum projects to rostromiddle basilar pons, the superiormore » colliculus to more caudal pontine regions, and the inferior colliculus (although sparsely) to further caudal areas. The pontine projection pattern from the colliculi and pretectum differs from the pontine afferents from the visual cortices.« less
Interactive marketing: The new marketing — Or more of the same?

The paper presents the main findings from an exploratory qualitative research project commissioned by the Institute of Direct Marketing (IDM). The objective of the research, based on in-depth interviews with senior marketing managers, was to identify the impact of interactive marketing and CRM on the mix of core skills and competencies required within marketing departments. In particular, the research provides insights into how the growing application of IT to support and facilitate marketing activities is radically changing the roles within these departments, sometimes bringing the ‘back-office’ team into close contact with the end-user customer for the first time. The paper includes a skills gap analysis, presented as a customer experience model, reflecting the changing focus of organisations identified in the research. The paper concludes by discussing the implications of the research for training and educating in the field of marketing.
Artifactual Hyperbilirubinemia Due to Paraprotein Interference

Abstract Context.—Paraprotein interference in automated chemistry is uncommon. We describe 2 patients with paraproteinemia and elevated total bilirubin levels measured erroneously using the Roche total bilirubin assay. Objectives.—To explain the mechanism of this artifactual hyperbilirubinemia and to determine its frequency in patients with monoclonal or increased immunoglobulins. Materials and Methods.—The assay was performed manually using serum from 2 index patients and from control patients (without M proteins). Total bilirubin was also determined using another manufacturer's assay. A prospective study was then undertaken using serum from 100 consecutive patients with various monoclonal gammopathies and from 13 patients with polyclonal hypergammaglobulinemia and cryoglobulins. For all patients, serum immunoglobulin (Ig) G, IgA, IgM, total and direct bilirubin, creatinine, and a direct spectrophotometric assessment of icterus were measured. Results.—After the addition of assay reagents, a white precipi...
PVN galanin increases fat storage and promotes obesity by causing muscle to utilize carbohydrate more than fat

To understand the function of the feeding-stimulatory peptide, galanin (GAL), in eating and body weight regulation, the present experiments tested the effects of both acute and chronic injections of this peptide into the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of rats. With food absent during the test, acute injection of GAL (300 pmol/0.3 microl) significantly increased phosphofructokinase activity in muscle, suggesting enhanced capacity to metabolize carbohydrate, and reduced circulating glucose levels. It also decreased beta-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase activity in muscle, indicating reduced fat oxidation, while increasing circulating non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) and lipoprotein lipase activity in adipose tissue (aLPL). Chronic PVN injections of GAL (300 pmol/0.3 microl/injection) versus saline over 7-10 days significantly stimulated daily caloric intake and increased the weight of four dissected fat depots by 30-40%. These effects, accompanied by elevated levels of leptin, triglycerides, NEFA and aLPL activity, were evident only in rats on a diet with at least 35% fat. Thus, by favoring carbohydrate over fat metabolism in muscle and reversing hyperglycemia, PVN GAL may have a function in counteracting the metabolic disturbances induced by a high-fat diet. As a consequence of these actions, GAL can promote the partitioning of lipids away from oxidation in muscle towards storage in adipose tissue.
The Relationship Between Implementation of School-Wide Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports and Performance on State Accountability Measures

1. Adriana M. Marin[1][1] 2. Hollie Gabler Filce[1][1] 1. 1University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS, USA 1. Adriana M. Marin, University of Southern Mississippi, 118 College Drive #5057, Hattiesburg, MS 39406, USA. Email: adriana.marin{at}eagles.usm.edu This study examined data from 96 schools in a Southeastern U.S. state participating in training and/or coaching on School-Wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (SWPBIS) provided by the State Personnel Development Grant (SPDG) in their state. Schools studied either received training only (“non-intensive” sites) or training and on-site coaching (“intensive” sites). Fidelity of implementation was self-evaluated by both types of schools using the Benchmarks of Quality (BOQ). Some schools were also externally evaluated using the School-Wide Evaluation Tool (SET), with those scoring 80% or higher determined “model sites.” Using an independent sample t -test, analyses revealed statistically significant differences between intensive and nonintensive schools’ Quality of Distribution Index (QDI) scores and between model sites and nonmodel sites on QDI scores. Correlations were performed to determine whether the fidelity of implementation of SWPBIS as measured by the BOQ was related to any of the state’s accountability measures: performance classification, QDI, or growth. [1]: #aff-1
Phenotypic and pathophysiological heterogeneity in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

This editorial refers to ‘Discriminating clinical features of heart failure with preserved vs. reduced ejection fraction in the community’†, by J.E. Ho et al. , on page 1734 and ‘Diastolic stiffness as assessed by diastolic wall strain is associated with adverse remodelling and poor outcomes in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction’‡, by T. Ohtani et al. , on page 1742 ARTICLE Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is common, increasing in prevalence, and causes substantial morbidity, mortality, and resource utilization, particularly among the elderly.1,2 Patients with HFpEF demonstrate pathophysiological characteristics similar to patients with HF with reduced EF (HFrEF),3 experience similar rates of HF re-hospitalization and functional decline,4,5 and face a significantly higher risk of death compared with age-matched controls.6,7 Despite multiple randomized controlled trials, no disease-specific therapy exists to improve prognosis in this heterogeneous syndrome.8–10 As reflected in professional guidelines, the primary pathophysiological abnormality in HFpEF is generally thought to be abnormal left ventricular (LV) diastolic performance,11 based largely on invasive haemodynamic studies in select highly phenotyped HFpEF patients that demonstrated both prolongation of early diastolic active relaxation and increase in LV passive stiffness.12,13 However, traditional non-invasive parameters of diastolic function have performed poorly in discriminating HFpEF patients from their co-morbidity-matched symptom-free …
Molecular epidemiology, prenatal exposure and prevention of cancer

Molecular Epidemiology was originally conceived as a preventive approach, providing a valuable tool for investigating risk factors for cancer in vulnerable populations. Biomarkers can be used as early indicators of risk for preventative purposes and risk assessment. The present contribution mainly refers to in utero exposures to carcinogens, since humans are especially vulnerable during fetal development. Environmental exposures in utero can increase risks for both childhood and adult cancers; their interactions with genetic and nutritional susceptibility factors may further increase risk. Thus, the early developmental period represents an important window for cancer prevention.
EGFRvIII expression and PTEN loss synergistically induce chromosomal instability and glial tumors

Glioblastomas often show activation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and loss of PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10) tumor suppressor, but it is not known if these two genetic lesions act together to transform cells. To answer this question, we infected PTEN-/- neural precursor cells with a retrovirus encoding EGFRvIII, which is a constitutively activated receptor. EGFRvIII PTEN-/- cells formed highly mitotic tumors with nuclear pleomorphism, necrotic areas, and glioblastoma markers. The transformed cells showed increased cell proliferation, centrosome amplification, colony formation in soft agar, self-renewal, expression of the stem cell marker CD133, and resistance to oxidative stress and ionizing radiation. The RAS/mitogen-activated protein kinase (ERK) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) pathways were activated, and checkpoint kinase 1 (Chk1), the DNA damage regulator, was phosphorylated at S280 by Akt, suppressing Chk1 phosphorylation at S345 in response to ionizing irradiation. The PTEN-/- cells showed low levels of DNA damage in the absence of irradiation, which was increased by EGFRvIII expression. Finally, secondary changes occurred during tumor growth in mice. Cells from these tumors showed decreased tumor latencies and additional chromosomal aberrations. Most of these tumor lines showed translocations of mouse chromosome 15. Intracranial injections of one of these lines led to invasive, glial fibrillary acidic protein-positive, nestin-positive tumors. These results provide a molecular basis for the occurrence of these two genetic lesions in brain tumors and point to a role in induction of genomic instability.
Resolution theorem proving

The resolution theorem-proving method was developed by J. A. Robinson in about 1 963 (Robinson 1 965a) and is still one of the most important methods of automated deduction. Many good books present various parts of the material that we can only present briefly and informally here. Chang & Lee (1973) was the first textbook for resolution, paramodulation, and unification, and is still useful. Loveland ( 1978) and Bibe1 ( 1982) are more recent texts excep­ tionally strong in the areas of linear refinements of resolution and the connection method, respectively. Wos et al (1984) is written for a wider audience and reflects the practical experience with resolution theorem proving at Argonne National Laboratory; it is especially strong in the areas of deciding how to formalize problems and how to select strategies for their solution. A recent companion book (Wos 1988) presents a list of 33 basic research problems in resolution theorem proving. Siekmann & Wrightson (1983) contains many important early papers in resolution theorem proving. Kowalski ( 1979b) emphasizes the important connections between resolution theorem proving and logic programming. Manna & Waldinger (1985) and Gallier ( 1986) are new textbooks in symbolic logic, oriented toward computer sicence and automated deduction. McDermott's ( 1987) review article discusses resolution theorem proving in less detail but places it in the context of logic, problem solving, and deduction in general. A review like this must occasionally omit entire topics as well as details. The most important topic that we are unable to discuss is unification. Siekmann (1987) should be consulted for a comprehensive survey of results on unification algorithms that could be used in resolution theorem proving.
An edge-guide mode microstrip isolator with transverse slot discontinuity

A novel configuration edge-guide mode isolator is described. The device utilizes a transverse slot, located at one edge of the upper conductor, to effect the isolation function. Results are reported on a series of experiments which confirm operation of the device. Considerations for optimizing performance are detailed, and supporting experimental data are included. A modified distributed lossy-termination Hines-type isolator is also considered. >
The Refugee Act of 1980 and the Depoliticization of Refugee/Asylum Admissions An Example of Failed Policy Implementation

One of the objectives of the Refugee Act of 1980 was to eliminate a bias that existed in U.S. refugee admissions in favorof aliens from hostile countries of origin (countries with communist, socialist, and leftist forms of government). This analysis finds that the hostile country bias in refugee admissions was perpetuated (and even, in the case of the State Department, intensified) through policy implementation by agencies within the immigration bureaucracy since passage of the Refugee Act of 1980. Specifically, the INS and the State Department, in their post-1980 decision making on asylum and refugee applications, continue to favor aliens from hostile countries.
The Integrated Library System: From Daring to Dinosaur?

ABSTRACT The automated library system (ALS) has undergone significant changes since its inception in the 1970s. It is no longer simply a database to house and retrieve a library's holdings. It has become an integrated library system (ILS) comprised of robust clusters of systems involving every process and module related to libraries. The Internet, open source, the increase in electronic resources, and the rising expectations of library users are changing the nature of the ILS. Library vendors are at times struggling to keep up with the demand for new services while providing support for existing services. This article details the evolving role of the ILS and discusses where it could and should be headed.
A Mathematical Model for the Effects of HER2 Over-Expression on Cell Cycle Progression in Breast Cancer

In this paper, we present a mathematical model predicting the fraction of proliferating cells in G1, S, and G2/M phases of the cell cycle as a function of EGFR and HER2. We show that it is possible to find parameters for the mathemati- cal model so that its predictions agree with the experimental observations that HER2 over-expression results in: (1) a shorter G1-phase and early S-phase entry; (2) and that with a 1-to-1 ration between EGFR and HER2, the growth advantage in HER2 over-expressing cells is indeed associated with the increase of the HER2 expression level.
Fundamental study of thermal conduction in dry soils

The thermal conductivity of the different soil components—mineral, liquids and air—varies across two or- ders of magnitude. Two studies are implemented to explore the role of contacts in heat conduction in dry granular mate- rials. The first set of experiments is designed to elucidate heat transfer at contacts, and it is complemented with a numeri- cally based inversion analysis for different local and boun- dary conditions to extract proper material parameters. Then, the thermal conductivity of dry soils is measured at different packing densities to address the relevance of coordination number and particle shape effects. Together, both studies confirm the prevailing effect of contact quality and number of contacts per unite volume on heat conduction in granular materials. Interparticle contacts and the presence of liquids in pores play a critical role in heat transfer, and determine the ordered sequence of typical thermal conductivity values: kair < kdry-soil < kwater < ksaturated-soil < kmineral.
Successful Topical Respiratory Tract Immunization of Primates against Ebola Virus

Ebola virus causes outbreaks of severe viral hemorrhagic fever with high mortality in humans. The virus is highly contagious and can be transmitted by contact and by the aerosol route. These features make Ebola virus a potential weapon for bioterrorism and biological warfare. Therefore, a vaccine that induces both systemic and local immune responses in the respiratory tract would be highly beneficial. We evaluated a common pediatric respiratory pathogen, human parainfluenza virus type 3 (HPIV3), as a vaccine vector against Ebola virus. HPIV3 recombinants expressing the Ebola virus (Zaire species) surface glycoprotein (GP) alone or in combination with the nucleocapsid protein NP or with the cytokine adjuvant granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor were administered by the respiratory route to rhesus monkeys—in which HPIV3 infection is mild and asymptomatic—and were evaluated for immunogenicity and protective efficacy against a highly lethal intraperitoneal challenge with Ebola virus. A single immunization with any construct expressing GP was moderately immunogenic against Ebola virus and protected 88% of the animals against severe hemorrhagic fever and death caused by Ebola virus. Two doses were highly immunogenic, and all of the animals survived challenge and were free of signs of disease and of detectable Ebola virus challenge virus. These data illustrate the feasibility of immunization via the respiratory tract against the hemorrhagic fever caused by Ebola virus. To our knowledge, this is the first study in which topical immunization through respiratory tract achieved prevention of a viral hemorrhagic fever infection in a primate model.
Revealing what gets buried first in protein folding

After decades of research, the nature of the rate-limiting step in the folding of globular proteins still elicits a range of opinions (1). The properties of the associated transition state (TS) provide critical insights into possible folding mechanisms. However, the characterization of the TS is challenging because atomic level methods cannot be applied to this minimally populated state, and lower resolution methods have produced divergent views. Even the existence of a generalized TS remains actively debated. In PNAS, Guinn et al. (2) dissect the burial properties of the TS for 13 proteins by analyzing the denaturant and temperature dependence of folding rates to distinguish the burial of hydrophobic surface from that of amide groups. With this capability, they propose that the TSs generally are very advanced and often contain the native 2° structure, a level higher than most prior methods have indicated.
Time-lock puzzles in the random oracle model

A time-lock puzzle is a mechanism for sending messages "to the future". The sender publishes a puzzle whose solution is the message to be sent, thus hiding it until enough time has elapsed for the puzzle to be solved. For time-lock puzzles to be useful, generating a puzzle should take less time than solving it. Since adversaries may have access to many more computers than honest solvers, massively parallel solvers should not be able to produce a solution much faster than serial ones. To date, we know of only one mechanism that is believed to satisfy these properties: the one proposed by Rivest, Shamir and Wagner (1996), who originally introduced the notion of time-lock puzzles. Their puzzle is based on the serial nature of exponentiation and the hardness of factoring, and is therefore vulnerable to advances in factoring techniques (as well as to quantum attacks). In this work, we study the possibility of constructing time-lock puzzles in the random-oracle model. Our main result is negative, ruling out time-lock puzzles that require more parallel time to solve than the total work required to generate a puzzle. In particular, this should rule out black-box constructions of such timelock puzzles from one-way permutations and collision-resistant hash-functions. On the positive side, we construct a time-lock puzzle with a linear gap in parallel time: a new puzzle can be generated with one round of n parallel queries to the random oracle, but n rounds of serial queries are required to solve it (even for massively parallel adversaries).
On Their Knees: Distal Femur Asymmetry in Ungulates and Its Relationship to Body Size and Locomotion

ABSTRACT Asymmetry of the knee (distal femur), where the medial trochlear ridge is larger than the lateral one, has been observed in certain ungulates, but until now there has not been a comprehensive study of this anatomy across a range of extant and extinct mammals. A degree of knee asymmetry is present in most ungulates: this asymmetry increases in extent with increasing body size, and is also more prominent in taxa with a preference for open habitats, independent of body size. However, camelids and proboscideans have symmetrical knees, regardless of size. We propose that the correlation of degree asymmetry with habitat type, as can be observed in extant ruminants, is related to the preferred type of locomotion, with the gallop gait being preferred in open habitats. Neither camelids nor proboscideans employ the gallop as a habitual gait. The allometric increase observed in knee asymmetry, in combination with the correlation with locomotor preference, likely reflects anatomy that resists muscular forces...
Hardness of intermolecular forces and thermal diffusion

Abstract An approximate momentum transfer theorem leads to a direct relation between the thermal diffusion ratio and the logarithmic derivative of the potential. The correlation with exact results is excellent.
BNIP3α A Human Homolog of Mitochondrial Proapoptotic Protein BNIP3

Apoptosis is regulated by interaction of viral and cellular BCL-2 family antiapoptotic proteins with various pro-apoptotic proteins, several of which are also members of the BCL-2 family. Cellular protein BNIP3 is a BCL-2 family proapoptotic protein that interacts with viral antiapoptosis proteins such as adenoviruses E1B-19K and EBV-BHRF1 and cellular antiapoptosis proteins such as BCL-2 and BCL-x L . Database searches indicate that the human genome encodes an open reading frame for a protein, BNIP3α, that shares substantial homology with BNIP3. The BNIP3α open reading frame encodes a protein of 219 amino acids that contains a conserved BH3 domain and a COOH-terminal trans- membrane domain, characteristic of several BCL-2 family proapoptotic proteins. BNIP3α interacts with viral antiapoptosis protein E1B-19K and cellular antiapoptosis proteins BCL-2 and BCL-x L . Overexpression of BNIP3α in transfected cells results in apoptosis and suppresses the antiapoptosis activity of E1B-19K and BCL-x L . Like BNIP3, BNIP3α seems to be predominantly localized in mitochondria. These results suggest that BNIP3α is a structural and functional homologue of BNIP3. BNIP3 and BNIP3α seem to be the first examples of homologues among the various human proapoptotic proteins. Northern blot analysis reveals that BNIP3α is expressed ubiquitously in most human tissues. In contrast, BNIP3 is expressed well in several human tissues and less abundantly in certain tissues such as placenta and lung. These results suggest that although BNIP3 and BNIP3α may promote apoptosis simultaneously in most human tissues, BNIP3α may play a more universal role.
High-speed systolic implementation of fast QR adaptive filters

A rectangular systolic array of processing units is presented for implementation of the QR adaptive filter. This array requires approximately 8N processing units to exactly solve the least-squares adaptive filtering problem using QR factorization. If a processing unit takes 50 ns to perform a task, the array can be implemented at an adaptive-filter input sampling rate of 20 MHz, with no loss in characteristic high performance (of least squares), numerical stability, or accuracy. This improves on widely used gradient methods for adaptive filtering, which must insert increasing amounts of performance-degrading delay into the adaptive updating when either the speed of implementation or number of taps increase. A discussion of the structure and interconnection of the processing units is included, as well as computer simulations that verify the stability and performance of the adaptive processing array. >
Factorization of intuitionistic fuzzy preference relations

The proofs of many factorization results for an intuitionistic fuzzy binary relation 〈ρμ,ρν〉 involve dual proofs, one for ρμ with respect to a t-conorm ⊕ and one for ρν with respect to a t-norm ⊗. In this paper, we show that one proof can be obtained from the other by considering ⊕ and ⊗ dual under an involutive fuzzy complement. We provide a series of singular proofs for commonly defined norms and conorms.
A computational framework for exploratory data analysis.

We introduce the Exploration Machine (Exploratory Ob- servation Machine, XOM) as a novel versatile method for the analysis of multidimensional data. XOM systematically inverts structural and func- tional components of so-called topology-preserving mappings. It provides a surprising flexibility to simultaneously contribute to complementary do- mains of unsupervised learning for exploratory pattern analysis, namely both structure-preserving dimensionality reduction and data clustering. We demonstrate XOM's applicability to synthetic and real-world data.
Drive level and preference between two incentives

Spence’s theory predicts that preferential choice between two magnitudes of reward will be independent of drive level if the conditions insure equal experience with the alternative choice responses. This prediction was tested by training rats in a T maze to choose between four and three pellets of food reward, half the Ss under high and half under low degrees of food deprivation. The groups attained the same degree of asymptotic preference independent of drive level, thus confirming the theory’s prediction.
purpose and practical qualification for impurities in new drug substances and pharmaceutical products

The balance of the risks and levels of impurity is always a focus in the evaluation for new drug development.A number of international guidelines and regional guidance instruct drug researchers and regulatory agencieshow to evaluate and control impurities in drug substances and drug products.Although it is acknowledged that impurities cannot be reduced to zero,the impurities should always be reduced to the lowest levels that are reasonably practical,and specifications for impurities need to be established.
Research on tool wear Intelligent modeling of special spiral rod numerical control milling

New method for online tool wear estimation in spiral rod numerical controlled milling is presented. Firstly the variable cutting parameters of spiral rod milling are analyzed to extract the eigenvalue of vibration and power signals. Then the tool wear mathematical model is built up based on adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system. Experimental results have proved the effectiveness of the method proposed to reflect the actual tool condition during the milling process in spite of the varying cutting parameters. Moreover, it provides a new approach for tool wear condition monitoring of other milling processes with time-varying cutting parameters.
Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation for sickle cell disease – current practice and new approaches

Sickle cell disease is an inherited disorder that affects over 5 million people worldwide. Current maintenance therapy has been successful in reducing complications and enhancing life expectancy; yet subclinical complications persist. To date, allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) remains the only available curative therapy for sickle cell disease. With declining incidences of rejection and transplant- related mortality, disease-free survival after human leucocyte antigen-identical sibling transplant exceeds 90%. However, the majority of individuals with sickle cell disease do not have an human leucocyte antigen (HLA)-identical sibling; therefore, research is expanding to focus on new approaches to alternative donor transplant. Advances in supportive care and conditioning regimens have led to expansion of the pool of donors to unrelated donors and haploidentical donors. Challenges remain in improving the safety and efficacy of HSCT from alternate donors. Early results from gene therapy may provide another curative option in patients with sickle cell disease. These approaches show early promise, but larger, longitudinal studies are needed to better determine the optimal clinical circumstances for transplant in sickle cell disease.
Diurnal pattern of the interrelationships among leucine oxidation, urea production, and hydrolysis in humans

We investigated in six healthy adult men, who received an adequate intake of protein (1 g.kg-1.day-1), the relationship among urea production, excretion, and hydrolysis. At the end of a 6-day diet-adjustment period, subjects were studied using a 24-h continuous intravenous [1-13C]leucine and [15N,15N]urea tracer protocol (A. E. El-Khoury, N. K. Fukagawa, M. Sanchez, R. H. Tsay, R. E. Gleason, T. E. Chapman, and V. R. Young. Am. J. Clin. Nutr. 59: 1000-1011, 1994) to determine rates of irreversible protein nitrogen loss and urea kinetics. By combining leucine and urea kinetic data, we found a significant degree of urea hydrolysis over the 24-h period but no evidence to support the thesis that there is a net retention or "salvage" of the urea nitrogen liberated. Our measurements revealed little or no urea hydrolysis during the fed 12-h period of the 24-h tracer protocol but substantial hydrolysis during the 12-h fasting phase. Furthermore, a mass balance model and calculations (APPENDIX) indicated that nitrogen salvage, if any, is quantitatively indistinguishable from insensible nitrogen losses and aggregate estimation errors, accounting for no more than 5% of the nitrogen intake. We conclude that urea hydrolysis, via the intestinal microflora, although representing a component of the overall cycles of nitrogen flow within the body, does not contribute via a net retention of amino nitrogen to the maintenance of body nitrogen homeostasis in healthy adults consuming an adequate diet.