cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Blood flow measurement using variable velocity encoding in the RR interval

Velocity-encoded phase imaging using asynchronous gating requires input of a velocity encoding value to set the velocity sensitivity of the pulse sequence. The raw data interpolation and reconstruction scheme that the pulse sequence uses forces the encoding value to be constant throughout the RR interval. The sequence and the raw data interpolation scheme were modified to allow two velocity encodings during the RR interval. Two-hundred cm/s encoding was used in systole, and 30 cm/s in diastole. Changing the encoding in diastole significantly improved the accuracy and precision of ascending aorta flow measurements.
Wheat acetyl-CoA carboxylase

The acetyl-CoA carboxylase present in both wheat germ and total wheat leaf protein contains ca. 220 kDa subunits. It is the major biotin-dependent carboxylase present in wheat chloroplasts. Active acetyl-CoA carboxylase purified from wheat germ is a homodimer with an apparent molecular mass of ca. 500 kDa. The enzyme from wheat germ or from wheat chloroplasts is sensitive to the herbicide haloxyfop at micromolar levels. The incorporation of 14C-acetate into fatty acids in freshly cut wheat seedling leaves provides a convenient in vivo assay for both acetyl-CoA carboxylase and haloxyfop.
Lymphangiography in recurrent spontaneous chylothorax.

Fig. 1. Recurrent spontaneous chylothorax in a 56-year-old man with previous history of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (treated by chemotherapy and radiotherapy 13 years before with no signs of recurrent neoplastic disease): pre-operative lymphangiography (standardmethod). Lower box (paradiaphragmatic):metallic clips from the first operation. Upper box (para-mediastinal): additional chylous leak sourcenotdealtwith at the timeofprimary surgery, performedwithout preoperative lymphangiographic assessment. A repeat right-sided video-assisted procedure with a 4 cm long ‘service’ thoracotomy (to deal with the multiple adherences from the previous operation) was performed after a fat ‘milk and butter’ meal and all the evident chylous leaks have been ‘clipped’. * Corresponding author. Address: Division of General Thoracic Surgery, Catholic University, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy. Tel.: +39 03358366161; fax: +39 063051162. E-mail address: alfcesario@yahoo.com (A. Cesario).
Towards a perfect scattering experiment

Abstract It is now feasible to perform scattering experiments between spin-polarized electrons and state-selected target atoms where the scattered electrons are energy and spin-analyzed and the final atomic state also determined. Additional information may be obtained in the case of electron impact excitations, in which angular correlations between the scattered electrons and photons from the decay of the excited state are studied. These experiments will provide the most stringent test of theoretical models of atomic scattering because they will measure all quantum mechanical “observables” in experiments in which interactions much weaker than coulombic are present. The approach towards such experiments is discussed.
Advantages and Disadvantages in the Use of Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) and Filter Infrared (FIR) Spectrometers for Monitoring Airborne Gases and Vapors of Industrial Hygiene Concern

Abstract The important differences between Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and filter infrared (FIR) systems for air monitoring are explored, and the strengths and weaknesses of these technologies when applied to industrial hygiene problems are defined and illustrated with actual workplace air monitoring examples. The discussion of the differences in FTIR and FIR instrumentation is structured around the principal components of these spectrophotometers: the optical, sample, and data handling and interpretation systems. Workplace air monitoring applications that are discussed as illustrations of the relative utility of these systems are remote sensing at a hazardous waste site, emissions from a chemical vapor deposition furnace, irritating odors from resin regeneration, and trichloroethylene and Freon® samples from a degreasing operation. In addition, cautionary notes are given for the application of FTIR by nonspectroscopists. Finally, the direction of future research and technical advances are discussed.
The transmitral pressure-flow velocity relation. Effect of abrupt preload reduction.

Although recent animal and clinical studies suggest that Doppler-derived indexes may be useful for the characterization of ventricular diastolic behavior, the hemodynamic basis for the preload dependency of these indexes has not previously been fully elucidated. Accordingly, effects of reduction of left atrial load on the pressure-flow velocity relation were characterized in 10 anesthetized, closed-chest dogs during transient inferior vena caval occlusion by means of simultaneously recorded left atrial and left ventricular micromanometric pressure measurement and transesophageal Doppler echocardiograms. Within four or five beats after inferior vena caval balloon occlusion, left atrial loading was reduced as evidenced by a decrease in the slope of the left atrial v wave from 21 +/- 4 to 13 +/- 4 mm Hg/sec (p less than 0.001) and by a decrease in the first crossover point of left atrial and left ventricular pressures from 5.6 +/- 1.1 to 2.9 +/- 1.5 mm Hg (p less than 0.001). This decrease in left atrial loading resulted in reductions during early diastole of minimum left ventricular pressure (from 1.0 +/- 0.8 to -0.4 +/- 1.2 mm Hg, p less than 0.001), the maximum early forward (i.e., left atrial pressure greater than left ventricular pressure) transmitral pressure gradient (from 2.8 +/- 0.8 to 2.4 +/- 0.5 mm Hg, p less than 0.01); the slope of the rapid filling pressure wave (from 44 +/- 11 to 38 +/- 10 mm Hg/sec, p less than 0.025); and the area of the reversed (i.e., left ventricular pressure greater than left atrial pressure) transmitral pressure gradient (from 79 +/- 42 to 53 +/- 33 mm Hg.msec, p less than 0.05). During late diastole, both the heights and slopes of the left atrial and left ventricular a waves fell, resulting in a decrease in the maximum late transmitral pressure gradient (from 1.2 +/- 0.7 to 0.9 +/- 0.5 mm Hg, p less than 0.05). Vena caval occlusion also altered Doppler transmitral velocity profiles during both the early and late phases of diastole. Peak velocity of the E wave decreased (from 50 +/- 11 to 41 +/- 7 cm/sec, p less than 0.01) as did acceleration (from 880 +/- 222 to 757 +/- 258 cm/sec2, p less than 0.025) and deceleration (from 597 +/- 260 to 429 +/- 197 cm/sec2, p less than 0.025). Peak velocity of the A wave also fell (from 29 +/- 9 to 22 +/- 5 cm/sec, p less than 0.005). Abrupt inferior vena caval occlusion did not significantly change heart rate or mean aortic pressure.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Learning Localized Perceptual Similarity Metrics for Interactive Categorization

Current similarity-based approaches to interactive fine grained categorization rely on learning metrics from holistic perceptual measurements of similarity between objects or images. However, making a single judgment of similarity at the object level can be a difficult or overwhelming task for the human user to perform. Secondly, a single general metric of similarity may not be able to adequately capture the minute differences that discriminate fine-grained categories. In this work, we propose a novel approach to interactive categorization that leverages multiple perceptual similarity metrics learned from localized and roughly aligned regions across images, reporting state-of-the-art results and outperforming methods that use a single nonlocalized similarity metric.
A real-time garbage collection framework for embedded systems

Garbage collection is increasingly prevalent as part of the programming landscape, but its use in real-time embedded systems remains problematic. One approach is to separate the specification of the timing requirements of real-time tasks, the memory use behavior of the code that implements them, and the configuration of the memory management system to ensure that the tasks' real-time requirements are met. The Real Time Garbage Collector (RTGC) framework provides common language for describing a broad class of real-time collectors. The notion of an RTGC configuration, based on the framework, provides a target for automating the task of configuring automatic memory management for a real-time system and its workload.
Conservation of genetic diversity in old-growth forest communities of the southeastern United States

Question: How do studies of the distribution of genetic diversity of species with different life forms contribute to the development of conservation strategies? Location: Old-growth forests of the southeastern United States. Methods: Reviews of the plant allozyme literature are used to identify differences in genetic diversity and structure among species with different life forms, distributions and breeding systems. The general results are illustrated by case studies of four plant species characteristic of two widespread old-growth forest communities of the southeastern United States: the Pinus palustris - Aristida stricta (Longleaf pine - wiregrass) savanna of the Coastal Plain and the Quercus - Carya - Pinus (Oak-hickory-pine) forest of the Piedmont. Genetic variation patterns of single-gene and quantitative traits are also reviewed. Results: Dominant forest trees, represented by Pinus palustris (longleaf pine) and Quercus rubra (Northern red oak), maintain most of their genetic diversity within their populations whereas a higher proportion of the genetic diversity of herbaceous understorey species such as Sarracenia leucophylla and Trillium reliquum is distributed among their populations. The herbaceous species also tend to have more population-topopulation variation in genetic diversity. Higher genetic differentiation among populations is seen for quantitative traits than for allozyme traits, indicating that interpopulation variation in quantitative traits is influenced by natural selection. Conclusion: Developing effective conservation strategies for one or a few species may not prove adequate for species with other combinations of traits. Given suitable empirical studies, it should be possible to design efficient conservation programs that maintain natural levels of genetic diversity within species of conservation interest.
Natural convection in a liquid-encapsulated molten semiconductor with a steady magnetic field

Abstract This paper treats the buoyant convection in a layer of boron oxide, called a liquid encapsulant, which lies above a layer of a molten compound semiconductor (melt) between cold and hot vertical walls in a rectangular container with a steady horizontal magnetic field B . The magnetic field provides an electromagnetic damping of the molten semiconductor which is an excellent electrical conductor but has no direct effect on the motion of the liquid encapsulant. The temperature gradient drives counter-clockwise circulations in both the melt and encapsulant. These circulations alone would lead to positive and negative values of the horizontal velocity in the encapsulant and melt, respectively, near the interface. The competition between the two buoyant convections determines the direction of the horizontal velocity of the interface.
Amplified wavelength–time transformation for real-time spectroscopy

Real-time spectroscopy provides invaluable information about the evolution of dynamical processes, especially non-repetitive phenomena. Unfortunately, the continuous acquisition of rapidly varying spectra represents an extremely difficult challenge. One method, wavelength–time mapping, chirps the spectrum so that it can be measured using a single-shot oscilloscope1,2,3,4. Here, we demonstrate a method that overcomes a fundamental problem that has previously plagued wavelength–time spectroscopy: fine spectral resolution requires large dispersion, which is accompanied by extreme optical loss. The present technique uses an optically amplified wavelength–time transformation to beat the dispersion-loss trade-off and facilitate high-resolution, broadband, real-time applications. We show that this distributed amplification process can even be pumped by broadband noise, generating a wide gain bandwidth using a single pump source. We apply these techniques to demonstrate real-time stimulated Raman spectroscopy. Amplified wavelength–time Raman spectroscopy creates new opportunities for the study of chemical and physical dynamics in real time.
Ground-based photon path measurements from solar absorption spectra of the O2 A-band

High-resolution solar absorption spectra obtained from Table Mountain Facility (TMF, 34.38degN, 117.68degW, 2286 m elevation) have been analyzed in the region of the O2 A-band. The photon paths of direct sunlight in clear sky cases are retrieved from the O2 absorption lines and compared with ray-tracing calculations based on the solar zenith angle and surface pressure. At a given zenith angle, the ratios of retrieved to geometrically derived photon paths are highly precise (approx.0.2%), but they vary as the zenith angle changes. This is because current models of the spectral lineshape in this band do not properly account for the significant absorption that exists far from the centers of saturated lines. For example, use of a Voigt function with Lorentzian far wings results in an error in the retrieved photon path of as much as 5%, highly correlated with solar zenith angle. Adopting a super-Lorentz function reduces, but does not completely eliminate this problem. New lab measurements of the lineshape are required to make further progress.
Direct and indirect hostility and self‐destructive behavior by hospitalized depressives

ABSTRACT– Suicidal and other self-destructive behavior was correlated with self-report (Buss-Durkee) and observer rated (Lion Scale) measures of hostility and violence in 45 male inpatients with major depressive episodes by DSM III criteria (296.2, 296.3, 296.5). Selfdestructive acts were significantly correlated with a Buss-Durkee Indirect Hostility factor. Measures of directly expressed hostility and violence correlated with seclusion and restraint for self-protection. None of the Lion or Buss-Durkee measures correlated with depression measures, nor did self-destructive acts correlate with degree of depression in these severe patients. Thus our data indicate that, in patients with moderate to severe depression, self-destructive acts in hospital may be better correlated with feelings of anger and hostility than with depression itself.
Parent–child role-confusion: A critical review of an emerging concept

Abstract We propose that role-confusion or role reversal between parent and child is a major risk factor for a child's development, yet one that has gone largely unnoticed. In the context of an evolutionary tension between parental reproductive needs and child needs for nurturing, parental history and current stressors may affect the ability to invest in parenting a particular child. When adult relationships do not provide adequate emotional and instrumental support to the parent, he or she may look to a child to provide that support. A growing empirical literature across clinical, family systems and developmental disciplines has pointed to the potential for the child to take on the role of parent, spouse, or peer in relation to the parent, such that traditional parent–child roles become confused or reversed and generational boundaries blurred. From a developmental psychopathology perspective, this change in parent–child role relations may adversely affect the child's socio-emotional development if demands placed on the child exceed the capacity to comply, thus increasing the risk for psychopathology. Conversely, shouldering family responsibilities that are within the developmental capacities of the child may lead to increased self-efficacy and competence. This paper critically reviews the growing literature, proposes a model for precursors to, and sequelae of, role-confusion, examines resilience, and points to directions for future research and preventive interventions.
Requirement of Nanog dimerization for stem cell self-renewal and pluripotency

Pluripotency of embryonic stem (ES) cells is maintained by transcription factors that form a highly interconnected protein interaction network surrounding the homeobox protein Nanog. Enforced expression of Nanog in mouse ES (mES) cells promotes self-renewal and alleviates their requirement for leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF). Understanding molecular mechanisms by which Nanog functions should illuminate fundamental properties of stem cells and the process of cellular reprogramming. Previously, we showed that Nanog forms multiple protein complexes in mES cells. Here, we demonstrate that Nanog dimerizes through its C-terminal domain rather than the homeodomain. Dimerization is required for interaction with other pluripotency network proteins. We also show that enforced expression of the Nanog dimer, but not the monomer, functionally replaces wild-type Nanog to sustain LIF-independent self-renewal of ES cells. Our results demonstrate that Nanog–Nanog homodimerization is a critical aspect of its function promoting stem cell pluripotency.
Kaposi’s Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus Subversion of the Anti-Inflammatory Response in Human Skin Cells Reveals Correlates of Latency and Disease Pathogenesis

KSHV is the etiologic agent for Kaposi's sarcoma (KS), a neoplasm that manifests most aggressively as multifocal lesions on parts of human skin with a propensity for inflammatory reactivity. However, mechanisms that control evolution of KS from a benign hyperplasia to the histologically complex cutaneous lesion remain unknown. In this study, we found that KSHV induces proteomic and morphological changes in melanocytes and melanoma-derived cell lines, accompanied by deregulation of the endogenous anti-inflammatory responses anchored by the MC1-R/ α -MSH signaling axis. We also identified two skin-derived cell lines that displayed differences in ability to support long-term KSHV infection and mapped this dichotomy to differences in (a) NF- κ B activation status, (b) processing and expression of KSHV latency-associated nuclear antigen isoforms putatively associated with the viral lytic cycle, and (c) susceptibility to virus-induced changes in expression of key anti-inflammatory response genes that antagonize NF- κ B, including MC1-R, POMC, TRP-1, and xCT. Viral subversion of molecules that control the balance between latency and lytic replication represents a novel correlate of KSHV pathogenesis and tropism in skin and underscores the potential benefit of harnessing the endogenous anti-inflammatory processes as a therapeutic option for attenuating cutaneous KS and other proinflammatory outcomes of KSHV infection in high-risk individuals.
Self-evaluations of male and female managers

Two separate samples of males and females holding first-level management positions in United States organizations completed questionnaires which asked for self-evaluation on a number of job-related characteristics and for attributions of causality for successful and unsuccessful job experiences. In support of previous research, results indicated that males evaluated their performance more favorably than did women, and rated themselves as having more ability and greater intelligence. Men also saw ability as more responsible for their success than did women, but the sexes did not differ in attributions to luck, effort, or task. Implications for equal opportunity and potential for change are considered.
Amphibian acid phosphatase--III. Electrophoretic analysis of tissue and plasma proteins and acid phosphatase isozymes in Rana pipiens.

Abstract 1. 1. In frog plasma, 8 groups of electrophoretically separable proteins were detected. By comparing these with components of bovine serum, and by using ammonium sulfate fractionation, the albumin, α-, β- and γ-globulins of frog plasma were tentatively identified. 2. 2. Liver proteins included pre-albumins, albumin and others which varied in electrophoretic mobility and concentration. Fewer electrophoretically separable proteins were seen in spleen and bone. 3. 3. Three isozymes of acid phosphatase were identified in liver and spleen; in both tissues, each of the 3 isozymes had comparable migration rates and enzyme activities. The same isozymes were represented in plasma. 4. 4. Frog bone had 4 acid phosphatase isozymes. Three of these were similar to those found in liver and spleen, while the other was bone-specific. The latter also appeared in plasma. 5. 5. Following treatment of frogs with parathyroid hormone, a shift in magnitude of bone acid phosphatase activity in the isozymes occurred; two of the isozymes, which in untreated animals had much enzyme activity, were sharply reduced, while the bone-specific isozyme was greatly increased.
Impact of a brief education about mental illness on stigma of OCD and violent thoughts

Abstract Obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) has been largely ignored in the stigma literature. The present study examined perceptions of violent thoughts that varied in terms of the diagnostic label – OCD, Schizophrenia, or no diagnostic label – assigned to a target experiencing such thoughts. Participants were randomly assigned to read a vignette about a target with one of the three diagnostic labels. Participants then completed measures of social distance and reported how dangerous and unpredictable they found the target, in addition to providing the diagnosis they believed the target had. They were then given a brief education about OCD and Schizophrenia and asked to complete assessments again. Results indicated that while an OCD diagnosis was not credible before education, it became the most credible diagnosis following education. Results indicated that education resulted in significantly decreased negative attitudes toward the target, which was accounted for by the shift to determining that the target had OCD.
Conductivity of compacted clay soils to water and organic liquids

Four clay soils, selected to represent a range of mineralogies, were permeated with water and seven selected organic liquids in fixed wall permeameters. The conductivity of each soil/water followed by the chosen organic liquid was measured. The tested organic liquids included an acid and a base, and both polar and non-polar solvents. All four compacted soils had conductivities to water of less than 1 × 10−7 cm s−1. Acetic acid initially decreased the conductivity; however, after sufficient acid had permeated the soils, the conductivity generally increased to approximately the values measured with water. Soils treated with aniline exhibited conductivities of one to two orders of magnitude greater than values measured with water. Organic solvents, i.e. methanol, acetone, ethylene glycol, heptane and xylene, had conductivities of two to three orders of magnitude greater than their respective conductivities to water. While the miscible organics may undergo dilution by water in a field situation, the water immiscible solvents heptane and xylene would not be diluted by leachate and may reach a clay liner at or very near full strength. Conductivities of the soils to the organic solvents were much greater than could be explained by the densities and viscosities of the liquids. Visual observation of the soils permeated with organic solvents indicated the presence of cracks and voids in the centre of the soil mass which were not observed after the soils were permeated with water.
Mercury Flow Meter for Ion Thruster Testing

The theory of operation of the thermal flow meter is presented, and a theoretical model is used to determine design parameters for a device capable of measuring mercury flows in the range of 0 to 5 gm/hr. Flow meter construction is described. Tests performed using a positive displacement mercury pump as well as those performed with the device in the feed line of an operating thruster are discussed. A flow meter response time of about a minute and a sensitivity of about 10 mv/gm/hr are demonstrated. Additional work to relieve a sensitivity of the device to variations in ambient temperature is indicated to improve its quantitative performance.
Effects of IDPN-induced axonal swellings on conduction in motor nerve fibers ☆

Abstract Paranodal demyelination produces a reduction of conduction velocity and conduction block. The relative proportions of these changes appear to vary among different demyelinating disorders. In this study we have examined the effects on conduction of paranodal demyelination produced by giant axonal swellings. The axonal swellings were induced in rats by administration of β,β′-iminodipropionitrile (IDPN). In this experimental model synchronous axonal swellings occur in the proximal region of virtually every α-motorneuron without evidence of segmental demyelination or fiber loss. Conduction across the motor neuron was evaluated by two methods: a monosynaptic reflex pathway and intracellular recording from single motor neurons. Increases in the delay across the central region of the monosynaptic reflex pathway began between 2 and 4 days after toxin administration. Intracellular studies confirmed that the slowing occurred across the proximal regions of the motor axons; more distal regions of the motor axons were unaffected. The substantial reduction in conduction velocity over the swollen segment occurs with only moderate evidence of conduction block, as assayed by a reduction in the H-reflex/M-response amplitude ratio. Parallel morphological studies showed that in the enlarged fibers the myelin terminal loops maintained contact with the axon but were displaced from the paranodal region into the internode. The appearance of this “passive” paranodal demyelination correlated closely with the increase in conduction delay. We suggest that the contact maintained by the displaced myelin terminal loops with the axolemma allows saltatory conduction to continue, and explains the paucity of conduction block in this model despite the prominent conduction slowing.
Switching Dynamics of a Periodically Forced Discontinuous System With an Inclined Boundary

This paper presents the switching dynamics of flow from one domain into another one in the periodically driven, discontinuous dynamical system. The simple inclined straight line boundary in phase space is considered as a control law for the dynamical system to switch. The normal vector-field product for flow switching on the separation boundary is introduced, and the passability condition of flow to the discontinuous boundary is presented. The sliding and grazing conditions to the separation boundary are presented as well. Using mapping structures, periodic motions of such a discontinuous system are predicted, and the local stability and bifurcation analysis are carried out. Numerical illustrations of periodic motions with grazing to the boundary and/or sliding on the boundary are given, and the normal vector fields are illustrated to show the analytical criteria.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Mono-, Di-, Tri-, and Tetra-Substituted Fluorotyrosines: New Probes for Enzymes That Use Tyrosyl Radicals in Catalysis†

A set of N-acylated, carboxyamide fluorotyrosine (FnY) analogues [Ac−3-FY−NH2, Ac−3,5-F2Y−NH2, Ac−2,3-F2Y−NH2, Ac−2,3,5-F3Y−NH2, Ac−2,3,6-F3Y−NH2 and Ac−2,3,5,6-F4Y−NH2] have been synthesized from their corresponding amino acids to interrogate the detailed reaction mechanism(s) accessible to FnY•s in small molecules and in proteins. These Ac−FnY−NH2 derivatives span a pKa range from 5.6 to 8.4 and a reduction potential range of 320 mV in the pH region accessible to most proteins (6−9). DFT electronic-structure calculations capture the observed trends for both the reduction potentials and pKas. Dipeptides of the methyl ester of 4-benzoyl-l-phenylalanyl-FnYs at pH 4 were examined with a nanosecond laser pulse and transient absorption spectroscopy to provide absorption spectra of FnY•s. The EPR spectrum of each FnY• has also been determined by UV photolysis of solutions at pH 11 and 77 K. The ability to vary systematically both pKa and radical reduction potential, together with the facility to monitor radica...
Threshold differences for naloxone and naltrexone in the hypothalamus and midbrain using fixed ratio brain self-stimulation in rats

Rats were implanted with stimulating electrodes aimed either at the medial forebrain bundle-lateral hypothalamus (MFB-LH) or the midbrain-central gray (MID-GG), and were trained to lever-press for brain self-stimulation on a fixed ratio: 15 schedule of reinforcement. The dose-dependent effects of morphine (0.1–3.0 mg/kg), naloxone (0.1–30 mg/kg), and naltrexone (0.1–30 mg/kg) were then determined during 1 h test sessions. Both naloxone and naltrexone decreased the rate of responding in the MFB-LH as well as in the MID-CG. However, decrements in response rates were produced in the MID-CG by both naloxone and naltrexone at one tenth the doses required to produce similar decrements with electrodes in the MFB-LH. Dose-dependent decreases in response rates produced by morphine occurred at the same doses in the two electrode sites. At both sites, the decreases in response rates produced by the highest dose of morphine were antagonized completely by a low dose of naloxone (0.1 mg/kg). At an intermediate dose of naloxone (1.0 mg/kg), antagonism occurred in the MFB-LH but not in the MID-CG. At a high dose of naloxone (10 mg/kg), a depression in lever-pressing occurred at both sites in the morphine-treated animal indicating that the depressive action predominated over antagonism. These data explain the lack of consistency of the effects of naloxone on brain self-stimulation previously reported by different laboratories, and demonstrate that the use of partial reinforcement schedules in a rational approach to the evaluation of opioid effects on brain self-stimulation behavior.
Vertical stratification of feeding by Japanese beetles within linden tree canopies: selective foraging or height per se?

Adult Japanese beetles, Popillia japonica Newman (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae), tend to aggregate and feed most heavily in the upper canopy of host plants, defoliating them from the top down. We examined characteristics of linden (Tilia cordata L.) foliage from different canopy zones and tested two hypotheses that might account for vertical stratification of feeding by this vagile, polyphagous folivore. In the field, P. japonica caused 4-12 times more damage to upper canopy leaves in full sunlight than to lower canopy leaves in sun or shade. However, this within-tree pattern apparently cannot be explained by differences in nutritional parameters (protein, water, and sugar content) or "defensive" properties (toughness, tannins) of leaves. Furthermore, beetles did not discriminate between foliage from different canopy zones in laboratory choice tests, nor were fecundity or longevity higher for beetles fed upper canopy, sun-exposed leaves. Clonal grape plants suspended from vertical posts in the field at 3.65, 1.83 or 0 m above ground showed a top-down defoliation pattern identical to that seen in linden trees. This suggests that the height of foliage per se strongly affects initial orientation and attack by P. japonica. Recent related studies have shown that both sexes of P. japonica are strongly attracted to host volatiles induced by feeding of conspecific beetles. We suggest that Japanese beetles begin to feed in the upper canopy for reasons unrelated to host nutritional variation (e.g., behavioral thermoregulation, visual orientation to the host silhouette), and that top-down defoliation follows as additional beetles are attracted to feeding-induced volatiles acting as aggregation kairomones.
Hardening of Gold-Based Alloys

The relationships between composition, heat treatment, hardness, and microstructure have been investigated for a number of commercial dental casting alloys and for several series of experimental gold-silver-copper compositions. The hardnesses and typical microstructures found are reported. The results indicate that at least two distinct hardening mechanisms must occur in these alloys. The ternary alloys outside the two-phasr region of the gold-silver-copper system harden by ordering. The commercial alloys and those within the two-phase region may harden in part by ordering, but some other mechanism in required to explain the observed hardening. This mechanism is not due to the observed grain boundary precipitates. It may be associated with the intragranular needlelike structures seen, but reasons exist to question the sufficiency of that structure as an explantation of the hardening.
Pastors, parishioners, and pets

Case examples of how three parishioners in one congregation dealt with pet loss are examined. Each person discusses reasons for owning a pet, relates personal reactions to the loss, explains who was and who would have been supportive during the grief process, and illustrates why such support was needed. Suggestions for how a local minister might provide outreach to parishioners dealing with grief over a pet's death are presented.
Adaptive mutation parameter toggling genetic algorithm for phase-only array synthesis

A genetic algorithm that speeds convergence for phased array phase-only synthesis by adaptively toggling between nine mutation parameter pairs is illustrated. This adaptive algorithm outperforms any of the corresponding nine static cases where these same mutation parameters are held constant throughout the optimisation process.
Solid-phase synthesis of α-substituted proline hydantoins and analogs

Abstract The manual solid-phase preparation of racemic α-substituted bicyclic proline hydantoins and analogs, which can potentially contain up to four sites of structural diversity (ring size and substitution on the ring or at the ring fusion), is described. Key steps involved alkylation of aldimines of resin-bound amino acids with α,ω-dihaloalkanes and intramolecular displacement of the halide to generate α-substituted prolines and homologs. After formation of resin-bound ureas by reaction of these sterically-hindered secondary amines with isocyanates, base-catalyzed cyclization/cleavage yielded the desired hydantoin products.
Mouse models in the study of the Ets family of transcription factors

The Ets family of transcription factors is one of a growing number of master regulators of development. This family was originally defined by the presence of a conserved DNA binding domain, the Ets domain. To date, nearly 30 members of this family have been identified and implicated in a wide range of physiological and pathological processes. Despite the likely importance of Ets-family members, each of their precise roles has not been delineated. Herein, we describe the elucidation of essential functions of a few of these family members in vivo using knockout mouse models. Of the knockouts generated to date, the majority shows important functions in hematopoiesis, ranging from PU.1, a principle regulator of myelo-lymphopoiesis, to Spi-B which regulates the proper function of terminally differentiated cells. Ets1 was shown to be of intermediate importance as a regulator of pan-lymphoid development. Other Ets family members such as Fli1 and TEL1 display distinct and/or overlapping functions in vasculo/angiogenesis, hemostasis and hematopoiesis. The remaining knockouts generated, Ets2 and Er81, show non-hematopoietic defects related to extraembryonic development and neurogenesis, respectively. The pioneering group of knockout models described reveals only the most distinct functions of each of these Ets family members. A better understanding of the roles and hierarchies of Ets family members in cellular differentiation will come with the generation of new null alleles in previously untargeted family members, more mutant alleles in members already disrupted, double knockouts, ES cell differentiation and chimera rescue experiments, and tissue-specific inducible knockouts.
X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic study of the physical adsorption of xenon and the chemisorption of oxygen on tungsten (111)

Abstract X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (ESCA) has been used to study the physical adsorption of Xe and the chemisorption of oxygen by W (111). An ultrahigh vacuum ESCA spectrometer has been modified such that thermal desorption behavior from the W (111) crystal can be directly compared with ESCA spectra of the adsorbed species. In addition, since the work function of a W (111) crystal covered with one monolayer of Xe is accurately known from previous work, the binding energy of the Xe (3 d 5 2 ) adsorbate level can be accurately compared to the gaseous Xe (3 d 5 2 ) level. When Xe is physisorbed to 1 monolayer the Xe (3 d 5 2 ) level exhibits a binding energy (relative to the vacuum level) which is 2.1 eV below that found for Xe (g). At lower Xe coverages the shift becomes monotonically greater, approaching 2.6 eV at a Xe coverage of 0.05. This 0.5 eV shift downward is accompanied by an increase of only 0.05 eV in adsorption energy as coverage decreases, and may be partially caused by the presence of ~ 10–20 % of extraneous adsorption sites other than W (111) which adsorb Xe with higher adsorption energy. The adsorption energy of Xe may also be increased by coadsorption of oxygen and the Xe (3 d 5 2 ) binding energy exhibits a corresponding shift downward as adsorbed oxygen coverage is increased to θo = 0.5. Electronic relaxation processes affecting the final state are dominant factors in determining the magnitude of the chemical shift upon adsorption, in agreement with the predictions of Shirley. The magnitude of the relaxation effect seems to be very sensitive to small changes in Xe adsorption energy. Similar effects have been seen for chemisorption of CO. The adsorption of O2 at 120 K by W (111) yields a single broad O(1s) peak whose line-width decreases with increasing coverage. The final spectra at θo = 1 monolayer are very similar to those obtained at temperatures of 300 K or above on polycrystalline tungsten.
A NOVEL TETRACYCLINE-RESISTANT DETERMINANT, TET(U), IS ENCODED ON THE PLASMID PKQ10 IN ENTEROCOCCUS FAECIUM

Abstract Nine tetracycline (Tc)-resistant clinical isolates ofEnterococcus faeciumwere screened for plasmid content using agarose gel electrophoresis. pKQ10, a 1.9-kb plasmid carrying a novel Tc resistance determinant, was isolated from one of the isolates. The nucleotide sequence of this plasmid revealed an open reading frame corresponding to an 11.8-kDa protein and containing 105 amino acid residues. There was some limited similarity between this protein andtet(M),tet(O),tet(Q),tet(S),tetB(P), andotr(A), which overlapped, but did not include, the consensus GTP-binding sequences. The low-level, Tc-resistant determinant of pKQ10, namedtet(U), does not appear to correspond to any other known Tc resistance determinant.
The integral closure of a noetherian ring. II

(1978). The integral closure of a noetherian ring. II. Communications in Algebra: Vol. 6, No. 7, pp. 639-657.
Use of microinjection to generate an immortalized bovine mammary cell line with both epithelial and myoepithelial characteristics

Methods are described for the isolation, purification, and culture of bovine mammary epithelial cells. Individual cells were microinjected with a plasmid bearing the sequence for the simian virus 40 early region mutant tsA58 which encodes the thermolabile large T-antigen. After selection in G418-containing medium, surviving colonies were recovered and recloned. One of the clones, designated (E-TC), has been cultured for more than 300 population doublings and exhibits some very unusual properties. From low to middle confluency, E-TC cells exhibit the typical cobblestone morphology of epithelial cells. When E-TC cells remain in culture for 2 weeks, the majority of the cells in a single colony maintain the epithelial cobblestone-like morphology but cells at the periphery of the colony become larger, elongated, and less compact, a morphology more typical of myoepithelial-like cells. Myoepithelial cells, in co-culture, always surround epithelial cells (Zavizion et al., J. Dairy Sci. 75: 3381-3392). In co-culture with the BMM-UV bovine myoepithelial cells, E-TC cells are surrounded by the BMM-UV myoepithelial cells, thus the ET-C cells exhibit epithelial-like behavior. In co-culture with the MAC-T bovine epithelial cells, E-TC cells surround the MAC-T cells, thus the ET-C cells exhibit myoepithelial-like behavior. This suggests that E-TC cells may represent an immortalized bovine mammary stem cell (or precursor) which can exhibit myoepithelial-or epithelial-like properties depending upon certain culture conditions.
Nuclear spin-lattice relaxation in very dilute solutions of orthohydrogen in parahydrogen.

Proton spin-lattice relaxation time in dilute liquid and gas solutions of orthohydrogen in parahydrogen, noting dependence on temperature, density and composition
Changes in the self-concept mode of women undergoing hemodialysis: a descriptive study

Aim: Identify the changes in the self-concept mode of Roy’s theoretical model in women undergoing hemodialysis. Method: This is a descriptive study, carried out in a city in northeastern Brazil, which involved 24 women undergoing dialysis treatment due to chronic kidney disease (CKD). Results: The main alterations were: low self-esteem in the personal self and sexual dysfunction in the physical self, in terms of the self-concept mode. Discussion: Women undergoing hemodialysis present self-adaptive problems as in Roy’s theoretical model; therefore, nurses should direct their care, emphasizing these adaptive problems. Conclusion: The changes identified in women undergoing hemodialysis were low self-esteem and sexual dysfunction, in terms of the self-concept mode of Roy’s theoretical model
Automatic carrier pitch estimation for coherent demodulation

This paper proposes a method for estimating carrier frequencies for coherent demodulation using low-frequency amplitude modulation criteria and a frequency-smoothing regularizer. This process combines with coherent modulator estimation to create an iterative approach for simultaneously determining the optimally low-frequency modulator and corresponding carrier for an arbitrary signal. The method is demonstrated with unsupervised semi-blind source separation of speech mixed with several types of tonal interference.
Optogenetic and chemogenetic insights into the food addiction hypothesis.

Obesity is clinically diagnosed by a simple formula based on the weight and height of a person (body mass index), but is associated with a host of other behavioral symptoms that are likely neurological in origin. In recent years, many scientists have asked whether similar behavioral and cognitive changes occur in drug addiction and obesity, lending many to discuss the potential for “food addiction”. Advances in understanding the circuitry underlying both feeding behaviors and drug addiction may allow us to consider this question from the viewpoint of neural circuits, to complement behavioral perspectives. Here, we review advances in understanding of these circuits and use them to consider whether drawing comparisons to drug addiction is helpful for understanding certain forms of obesity.
USE OF SURVIVAL TIME ANALYSIS TO ANALYZE NESTING SUCCESS IN BIRDS: AN EXAMPLE USING LOGGERHEAD SHRIKES

Abstract Ornithologists commonly estimate nest survival using the Mayfield method, which produces relatively unbiased estimates provided that key assumptions are met. However, this method cannot statistically model nest failure in relation to quantitative variables, nor can it consider the joint effects of two or more independent variables. We demonstrate the use of an alternative method, survival time analysis. Survival time analysis can incorporate nests that are found at different points in the nesting cycle and nests whose ultimate outcome is unknown. The method allows one to examine variation in nest mortality during the course of the nesting period. To demonstrate this method we analyze data on Loggerhead Shrike (Lanius ludovicianus) nests, collected as part of a 3-year monitoring program of shrubsteppe habitat in north-central Oregon. We evaluate nesting success with respect to laying date, nest height, and annual variation in failure rate. We demonstrate three types of analyses: Kaplan-Meier estim...
Molecular control of monocyte development

Monocyte development is a tightly regulated and multi-staged process, occurring through several defined progenitor cell intermediates. The key transcription factors, including PU.1, IRF8 and KLF4, growth factors, such as M-CSF and IL-34 and cytokines that drive monocyte development from hematopoietic progenitor cells are well defined. However, the molecular controls that direct differentiation into the Ly6C(hi) inflammatory and Ly6C(lo) monocyte subsets are yet to be completely elucidated. This review will provide a summary of the transcriptional regulation of monocyte development. We will also discuss how these molecular controls are also critical for microglial development despite their distinct haematopoetic origins. Furthermore, we will examine recent breakthroughs in defining mechanisms that promote differentiation of specific monocyte subpopulations.
Hormonal contraception among electronic cigarette users and cardiovascular risk: a systematic review.

Abstract Background Women who use combined hormonal contraceptives and cigarettes have an increased risk for cardiovascular (CV) events. We reviewed the literature to determine whether women who use hormonal contraceptives (HC) and electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) also have an increased risk. Study Design Systematic review. Methods We searched for articles reporting myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, venous thromboembolism, peripheral arterial disease or changes to CV markers in women using e-cigarettes and HC. We also searched for indirect evidence, such as CV outcomes among e-cigarette users in the general population and among HC users exposed to nicotine, propylene glycol or glycerol. Results No articles reported on outcomes among e-cigarette users using HC. Among the general population, 13 articles reported on heart rate or blood pressure after e-cigarette use. These markers generally remained normal, even when significant changes were observed. In three studies, changes were less pronounced after e-cigarette use than cigarette use. One MI was reported among 1012 people exposed to e-cigarettes in these studies. One article on nicotine and HC exposure found both exposures to be significantly associated with acute changes to heart rate, though mean heart rate remained normal. No articles on propylene glycol or glycerol and HC exposure were identified. Conclusion We identified no evidence on CV outcomes among e-cigarette users using HC. Limited data reporting mostly acute outcomes suggested that CV events are rare among e-cigarette users in the general population and that e-cigarettes may affect heart rate and blood pressure less than conventional cigarettes. There is a need for research assessing joint HC and e-cigarette exposure on clinical CV outcomes.
Studies of LaAlO3“100” surfaces using RHEED and REM. I: twins, steps and dislocations

Lanthanum-aluminate (LaAIO 3) is one of the optimum substrates for epitaxial growth of YBa2Cu3OT_ x thin films. In this paper, the structures of the {100} surfaces of annealed LaAIO 3 are studied using reflection electron microscopy (REM). The importance of substrate steps on the growth of defects in the film is shown. It has been found that a {010} twin boundary is normally terminated with a (001) step at the surface. Dislocations are not observed in the flat surface areas but occur at the twin boundaries that intersects the {100} surface. The observed dislocation is screw-type with Burgers vector a(100). Numerous [010] and [001] "sawtooth" steps have been observed, and they are believed to be the lowest surface energy steps. It is suggested that the {100} surfaces are terminated entirely with either the La-O layer or the AI-O layer, but not a mixture of both. The miscut angle and the heights of surface steps are measured using the mirror imaging technique. Finally, the effect of surface contaminants on the growth of surface steps is shown, and a growth mechanism is proposed.