cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effective hamiltonian for the electric dipole moment of the neutron

Recently it has been shown that, in extensions of the minimal standard model, the effective hamiltonian for the electric dipole moment of the neutron contains the dimension-six operator [TrGGG] (with G the gluon field strength tensor and G its dual) and that the effects of this operator are not suppressed by light (up, down and strange) quark masses. We note that at the weak-scale this effective hamiltonian also contains the dimension-six operator m_b bσ_(μν) G_(μν)b (with b the bottom quark field and m_b its mass) whose effects do not vanish in the chiral limit. We calculate in models with weveral Higgs doublets the influence of this operator on low energy physics, showing that when the heavy bottom quark is integrated out, it induces the operator [TrGGG].
Properties of 15-hydroxy prostaglandin dehydrogenase: structural requirements for substrate binding.

Abstract We have studied some properties of 15-hydroxy prostaglandin dehydrogenase (PGDH), an enzyme crucial in prostaglandin (PG) degradation. Studies of the structural requirements for binding of PG and DPN + to the enzyme were carried out, using substrate or competitive inhibitor activities as an index of binding to the respective site. For the PG site, 7-oxa PGF 1α is a substrate, and the stereoisomers of 7-oxa PGF 1α are competitive inhibitors with the same affinity. 7-Oxa-13-prostynoic acid and fatty acids are mixed inhibitors. PPP(A.B. Leo) proved to be a competitive inhibitor for the PG site but SC 19220 (Searle) had no effect. The effects on the DPN + site of compounds structurally related to DPN + and parts of the DPN + molecule suggest that the adenosine portion of DPN + is more critical for binding than the carboxamide of the nicotinamide portion. A DPN + stabilization site was also found. In addition the molecular weight, stability, and pH curve for PGDH are reported. The properties of purified PGDH are compared with those of PG receptors for complex biological actions.
Pairs of hermitian and skew-hermitian quaternionic matrices: Canonical forms and their applications

Canonical forms are described for pairs of quaternionic matrices, or equivalently matrix pencils, where each one of the matrices is either hermitian or skew-hermitian, under strict equivalence and simultaneous congruence. Several applications are developed, including structure of selfadjoint and skew-adjoint matrices with respect to a regular sesquilinear quaternion valued form, or with respect to a regular skew-sesquilinear form. Another application gives canonical forms for quaternionic matrices under congruence.
Protease-Resistant Peptide Design – Empowering Nature's Fragile Warriors Against HIV

Peptides have great potential as therapeutic agents, but their use is often limited by susceptibility to proteolysis and their resulting in vivo fragility. In this review, we focus on peptidomimetic approaches to produce protease-resistant peptides with the potential for greatly improved clinical utility. We focus on the use of mirror-image (D-peptide) and s-peptides as two leading approaches with distinct design principles and challenges. Application to the important and difficult problem of inhibiting HIV entry illustrates the current state-of-the-art in peptidomimetic technologies. We also summarize future directions for this field and highlight remaining obstacles to widespread use of protease-resistant peptides.
Eccentricity and inclination of Miranda's orbit.

Careful re-measurement of all available plates showing Uranus V (Miranda), supplemented by some recently obtained images, shows that this satellite has both a pronounced orbital eccentricity and inclination (to the plane of the other satellites). Observations are sufficient in number and distribution to allow determinations of the precession rates of both pericenter and node, with implications for the dynamical oblateness of Uranus and the gravitational interaction of the satellites. An improved value for the revolution period is a byproduct of the investigation. The success of the study is due to the improved precision of the measures resulting from the adoption of a very simple, direct method of measurement.
Unimolecular kinetics of pyridine ion fragmentation

The fragmentation of the pyridine ion to form C4H4+ and HCN has been studied by means of photoelectron—photoion coincidence mass spectrometry with variable ion-source residence time. A detailed analysis of the time-dependent breakdown curves leads to a T = 0 K fragmentation threshold of 12.15 ± 0.02 eV, ΔHf00(C4H4+) = 1195 ± 12 kJ mol−1, somewhat higher than the value reported by Eland et al. The fragmentation process requires a tight transition state, in agreement with earlier conclusions of Eland et al. There is some disagreement with earlier work on the energy-dependence of the fragmentation rate. It is suggested that this may be due to distortion of the thermal vibrational population distribution of the ion after vertical ionization.
Use of Sensory Analysis for the Observation of Single Gene Effects on the Quality of Canned Peas (Pisum sativumL.)

Six genetic lines of peas isogenic for the A locus were used in a study of canned pea quality. This gene controls the expression of pigmentation on several parts of the pea plant and seed and is known to influence the quality of fresh and processed peas. Specific sensory attributes investigated were greenness, grayness, liquor clarity, typical pea aroma, grassy (hay-like) flavor, firmness, mushiness, skin toughness, and acceptability level. Alleles of the A locus were shown to control appearance, flavor and general acceptability of canned peas but were not associated with textural differences. Use of formal methods in sensory analysis to characterize specific genetic effects may be a powerful tool in the identification of genetic control centers for quality characteristics.
Variable temperature magnetic circular dichroism studies of reduced nitrogenase iron proteins and [4Fe-4S]+ synthetic analog clusters

Variable temperature magnetic circular dichroism (VTMCD) and EPR spectroscopies have been used to investigate the ground and excited-state properties of [4Fe-4S]+ clusters in Mo- and V-nitrogenase Fe-proteins from Azotobacter vinelandii and two synthetic analog clusters, [Fe4S4(SEt)4]3- and [Fe4S4(SC6H11)4]3-. The results indicate similar [4Fe-4S]+ clusters with analogous S = 1/2 and S = 3/2 ground states in both Fe-proteins. However, the Fe-proteins do differ in terms of the medium effects on the S = 1/2 and S = 3/2 spin mixtures in frozen solution. By utilizing medium effects in both Fe-proteins, the VTMCD characteristics of both the S = 1/2 and S = 3/2 forms of the [4Fe-4S]+ have been determined. Together with the VTMCD studies of [Fe4S4(SEt)4]3- and [Fe4S4(SC6H11)4]3-, which are shown to be predominantly S = 1/2 and 3/2, respectively, in frozen DMF/toluene solutions, the results demonstrate that the form of the VTMCD spectra provides a means of identifying and distinguishing S = 1/2 and S = 3/2 [4Fe-4S]+ clusters. Ground state zero-field splitting parameters for the S = 3/2 clusters are determined for both Fe-proteins. In addition to spin state heterogeneity, samples of the Mo-nitrogenase Fe-protein in the presence of 50% (v/v) ethylene glycol were found to exhibit heterogeneity in the S = 1/2 resonance. A rapidly relaxing axial resonance, g perpendicular = 1.94 and g parallel = 1.82, was observed in addition to the characteristic rhombic resonance, g = 2.05, 1.94 and 1.87. The origin of the heterogeneity exhibited by [4Fe-4S]+ clusters in frozen solution is discussed in light of these results.
Extrasolar planets: Inner edge of the habitable zone.

A three-dimensional climate model indicates that the fraction of Sun-like stars that might harbour a rocky planet within their habitable zone could be smaller than previously estimated. See Letter p.268 The Sun is gradually increasing in brightness on a geological timescale. This could lead eventually to a 'runaway greenhouse' effect on Earth, a state that occurs when a planet absorbs more energy from the Sun than it can radiate back to space. The oceans would evaporate and the climate would warm to Venus-like temperatures. Jeremy Leconte et al. use a three-dimensional climate model to show that the threshold for the initiation of a runaway greenhouse is considerably higher than that previously estimated by simplified one-dimensional models. A crucial factor is cooling caused by changes in atmospheric circulation that more than offset cloud-induced warming. This finding is of importance in relation to extrasolar planets, since it extends the size of the habitable zone around other stars.
Sexual dimorphisms in the overall proportions of primates.

Morphometric analysis of Professor A.H. Schultz's data on the overall proportions of primates reveals differences between the sexes. Univariate examinations of these data confirm the existence of the spectrum of sexual dimorphism already well known. This spectrum relates mainly to differences in the proportions of the trunk. It has a differential expression with largest differences between the sexes in species such as orangutans and boboons, and smallest in species such as spider monkeys and douroucoulis. Multivariate statistical study of these same data reveal, however, further unsuspected sexual dimorphisms. Although differences between the sexes are only small when measures of the relative lengths of bodily parts are examined, they are big when bodily breadths are studied. Investigation of breadths alone reveals that the primates display two major patterns of sexual dimorphisms and seven unique sexual dimorphisms among the 18 genera examined. Such findings mean that sexual dimorphism of bodily structure is not a single phenomenon with differential expression, a concept widely noted in the literature and most recently associated with social organization. There are several different sexual dimorphisms and this suggests that their causation is likely to be multifactorial with multiple complex interactions among the factors. Some of the sexual dimorphisms must have evolved in parallel a number of times, and, given that chimpanzees, gorillas, and humans each display a different sexual dimorphism, at least some of the evolutionary changes in different sexual dimorphisms must be very recent. The findings even imply the possibility of further unique patterns of sexual dimorphism in some fossils. By further extension, the findings may have some implications for our understanding of nonstructural dimorphisms in humans.
Mechanically Corner-Coupled Square Microresonator Array for Reduced Series Motional Resistance

Substantial reductions in vibrating micromechanical resonator series motional resistance Rx have been attained by mechanically coupling and exciting a parallel array of corner-coupled polysilicon square plate resonators. Using this technique with seven resonators, an effective Rx of 480 Omega has been attained at 70 MHz, which is more than 5.9X smaller than the 2.82 kOmega exhibited by a stand-alone transverse-mode corner-supported square resonator, and all this achieved while still maintaining an effective Q>9000. This method for Rx-reduction is superior to methods based on brute force scaling of electrode-to-resonator gaps or dc-bias increases, because it allows a reduction in Rx without sacrificing linearity, and thereby breaks the Rx versus dynamic range tradeoff often seen when scaling. This paper also compares two types of anchoring schemes for transverse-mode square micromechanical resonators and models the effect of support beam parameters on resonance frequency
Comment on "Thermophoresis of a Near-Wall Particle at Great Knudsen Numbers"

An approximate expression for the thermophoretic force on a near-wall particle at large particle Knudsen number is presented. The wall has arbitrary specularity. The derivation of this expression follows that of Chen and Xu (2002) but corrects two errors in their approach. The corrected expression predicts that the near-wall thermophoretic force is only 5-10% greater than the bulk-gas (Waldmann) value and that the greatest difference occurs for a specular wall, whereas the original expression predicts that the force is increased up to 35% and that the greatest difference occurs for a diffuse wall. Independent molecular gas dynamics simulations confirm the corrected expression.
Structure and absolute configuration of the flagellar apparatus in the isogametes of Batophora (Dasycladales, Chlorophyta)

The overall appearance of the flagellar apparatus in the isogametes of Batophora oerstedii. J. Ag. is most like that which occurs in motile cells of the Ulvophyceae. Like other Ulvophyceae, the basal bodies overlap and are arranged in the 11/5 configuration, microtubular roots are arranged in a cruciate pattern and system II striated fibers are present. The basal body connective which generally lacks striation in the Ulvophyceae is clearly different in Batophora, being composed of two large non-striated halves which connect to the anterior surface of each basal body and are then connected to one another by a distinctly fibrous centrally striated region. This variation in the basal body connective and the presence of two posteriorly directed system II striated fibers is clearly different from homologous structures reported in siphonous green algae of the Caulerpales. Based upon these variations and similarities among flagellar apparatus components in siphonous green algae, it is suggested that the Dasycladales and Siphonodadales are more closely related to one another than to the Caulerpales.
An analysis of the phylogenetic distribution of the pea pathogenicity genes of Nectria haematococca MPVI supports the hypothesis of their origin by horizontal transfer and uncovers a potentially new pathogen of garden pea: Neocosmospora boniensis

The filamentous fungus Nectria haematococca mating population VI (MPVI) contains a cluster of genes required to cause disease on pea. This cluster of pea pathogenicity genes (the PEP cluster) is located on a supernumerary chromosome that is dispensable for normal growth in culture. The genes in the PEP cluster have a different G+C content and codon usage compared with the genes located on the other chromosomes and a non-homogeneous distribution within the species. These features suggest that the PEP cluster may have been acquired by N. haematococca MPVI through horizontal gene transfer (HGT). In this work, we show that homologues of the PEP genes are present in another pea pathogen, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. pisi, but are not common among fungi that are phylogenetically closely related to N. haematococca MPVI. This phylogenetic discontinuity supports the hypothesis that the PEP cluster originated by HGT. Our analysis has also determined that homologues for all the PEP genes are present in Neocosmospora boniensis. A molecular characterization of the PEP homologues in this fungus shows that they are organized as a cluster, which has a different physical organization from the PEP cluster in N. haematococca. In addition, although no reports have been found to show that N. boniensis is a naturally occurring pea pathogen, we show here that this species is able to cause disease on pea.
The Effects of Stress, Escherichia coli, Dietary Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid, and Their Interaction on Tissue Trace Elements in Chicks

The present study determined effects of Escherichia coli infection, crowding stress, and EDTA supplementation on Cu, Fe, and Zn levels in the serum, liver, bursa of Fabricius, and spleen of chickens. Organ weights as a percentage of BW were affected by treatments prior to and after infection. Liver and spleen weights as a percentage of BW increased with infection but bursa weight decreased. One week of stress increased hepatic Cu, but 3 wk of EDTA ingestion increased serum Cu and serum, hepatic, bursal, and splenic Fe. These elemental changes resulting from EDTA may have predisposed the chicks to a higher mortality rate from E. coli compared with controls. Peak mortality occurred 2 days after infection, coincident with an increased serum Cu, decreased serum and bursal Fe and Zn, and increased hepatic and splenic Zn. At 7 days postinfection, recovering chicks experienced decreased hepatic Fe, elevated hepatic Zn, decreased bursal Cu, Fe, and Zn, and increased splenic Cu, Fe, and Zn. The current study demonstrates the interactive effects of EDTA, stress, and E. coli infection on serum and organ trace element concentration.
Role of TLR4 in allergic sensitization to food proteins in mice.

Allergic sensitization to food proteins and other allergens is increasing in prevalence. One hypothesis for this increase is that the decreased rate of infections or exposure to microbial products leaves the immune system susceptible to inappropriate reactivity to innocuous antigens through the lack of development of regulatory cells. We hypothesized that constitutive Toll-like receptor (TLR)4 signaling (presumably via the commensal flora) could inhibit the development of allergic sensitization to food proteins. We tested this hypothesis by sensitizing TLR4+ and TLR4− mice on two genetic backgrounds, C3H and BALB/c, to two common food allergens [β-lactoglobulin (βLG) and peanut (PN)]. B-cell responses were not significantly influenced by TLR4 status. T-cell responses were Th2 skewed in TLR4-deficient C3H mice compared with TLR4 sufficient C3H mice, but this pattern of Th2 skewing was not observed in TLR4-deficient mice on a BALB/c background. In anaphylaxis-susceptible C3H mice, TLR4 deficiency was associated with increased severity of anaphylaxis to PN, and decreased severity of anaphylaxis to βLG. In anaphylaxis-resistant BALB/c mice, TLR4 deficiency was not sufficient to render mice susceptible to PN-induced anaphylaxis. We conclude that although TLR4 status can influence T-cell responses and anaphylaxis severity, the nature of the influence is highly antigen- and strain-dependent.
The Setting for the Crack Era: Macro Forces, Micro Consequences (1960–1992)

This article provides an overview of the social history leading up to the crack era, especially 1960 to the present. The central theme holds that several major macro social forces (e.g., economic decline, job loss, ghettoization, housing abandonment, homelessness) have disproportionately impacted on the inner-city economy. These forces have created micro consequences that have impacted directly on many inner-city residents and have increased levels of distress experienced by households, families, and individuals. Economic marginality has generated high levels of alcohol and other drug abuse as well as criminality, which are exemplified in this article by one inner-city household having an extensive family history exhibiting the chronic impacts of these macro forces and their micro consequences.
Japanese FDI into the U.S. automobile industry: An empirical investigation

Abstract I empirically examine the decisions of the Japanese automobile companies to enter the U.S. market as direct investors given that they are currently exporting to this market. In particular, I am interested in learning how trade restrictions, in addition to U.S. policies and market conditions, affect these investment decisions. A two-step estimation procedure is used to account for the possible endogeneity of company export levels on the investment decisions.
Differential adherence of M line Biomphalaria glabrata hemocytes to Schistosoma mansoni and Echinostoma paraensei larvae, and experimental manipulation of hemocyte binding.

Abstract The ability of M line strain Biomphalaria glabrata hemocytes to adhere to mother sporocysts (MS) of PR1 Schistosoma mansoni or to MS or daughter rediae (DR) of Echinostoma paraensei was studied using an in vitro hemocyte adherence assay. Hemocytes were significantly more likely to bind to S. mansoni MS than to E. paraensei MS or DR. Hemocyte adherence to E. paraensei MS or DR was significantly increased if glutaraldehyde-fixed larvae were used as targets. Also, E. paraensei MS pretreated with the lectin concanavalin A (Con A) were more likely to be bound by hemocytes than MS pretreated with Con A in the presence of the competing sugar, α-methyl mannoside. Pretreatment of hemocytes with Con A increased their ability to bind E. paraensei sporocysts, but the effect was small compared to that achieved by pretreatment of MS with Con A. The lectin probably did not function as a bridging molecule between hemocytes and MS but, rather, altered the MS surface in a way that facilitated adherence. Similarly, adherence to E. paraensei MS was significantly increased if the MS were pretreated with cell-free M line plasma prior to use in adherence assays. Our results indicate that the two parasites provoke fundamentally different responses from M line hemocytes in vitro and that the living tegument can be modified by host humoral factors and by lectins such that hemocyte binding is significantly increased.
Information flow in sensory neurons

Recent experiments show that the neural codes at work in a wide range of creatures share some common features. At first sight, these observations seem unrelated. However, we show that all of these features of the code arise naturally in a simple threshold crossing model when we choose the threshold to maximize the transmitted information. This maximization process requires neural adaptation to not only the d.c. signal level, as in conventional light and dark adaptation (for example), but also to the statistical structure of the signal and noise distributions. Interestingly, if we fix the threshold level, we can observe a peak in the transmitted information at a finite value of the input signal-to-noise ratio. However, when we allow the threshold to adapt to the statistical structure of the signal and noise, the transmitted information is always monotonically increasing with increasing input signal-to-noise ratio.
Real-time detection of microbial contamination

We demonstrate the utility of this molecular engineering-based capture and detection technology for use in homeland defense. This capture technology can be placed on a "chip" where each section contains a different ligand. Intrinsic fluorescence is then used to monitor the binding of biomaterial in each section containing a ligand and determines the nature of the biomaterial (e.g., live bacterial cells, dead cells, spores, or tryptophan/tyrosine containing protein molecules).
5-HT2CR blockade in the amygdala conveys analgesic efficacy to SSRIs in a rat model of arthritis pain

Pain, including arthritic pain, has a negative affective component and is often associated with anxiety and depression. However, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressants (SSRIs) show limited effectiveness in pain. The amygdala plays a key role in the emotional-affective component of pain, pain modulation and affective disorders. Neuroplasticity in the basolateral and central amygdala (BLA and CeA, respectively) correlate positively with pain behaviors. Evidence suggests that serotonin receptor subtype 5-HT2CR in the amygdala contributes critically to anxiogenic behavior and anxiety disorders. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that 5-HT2CR in the amygdala accounts for the limited effectiveness of SSRIs in reducing pain behaviors and that 5-HT2CR blockade in the amygdala renders SSRIs effective. Nocifensive reflexes, vocalizations and anxiety-like behavior were measured in adult male Sprague–Dawley rats. Behavioral experiments were done in sham controls and in rats with arthritis induced by kaolin/carrageenan injections into one knee joint. Rats received a systemic (i.p.) administration of an SSRI (fluvoxamine, 30 mg/kg) or vehicle (sterile saline) and stereotaxic application of a selective 5-HT2CR antagonist (SB242084, 10 μM) or vehicle (ACSF) into BLA or CeA by microdialysis. Compared to shams, arthritic rats showed decreased hindlimb withdrawal thresholds (increased reflexes), increased duration of audible and ultrasonic vocalizations, and decreased open-arm choices in the elevated plus maze test suggesting anxiety-like behavior. Fluvoxamine (i.p.) or SB242084 (intra-BLA) alone had no significant effect, but their combination inhibited the pain-related increase of vocalizations and anxiety-like behavior without affecting spinal reflexes. SB242084 applied into the CeA in combination with systemic fluvoxamine had no effect on vocalizations and spinal reflexes. The data suggest that 5-HT2CR in the amygdala, especially in the BLA, limits the effectiveness of SSRIs to inhibit pain-related emotional-affective behaviors.
Assessing sex differences on treatment effectiveness from the drug abuse treatment outcome study (DATOS).

Men and women entering drug treatment programs are known to differ in demographic characteristics and psychosocial behavioral patterns. To be effective, any such program that caters to individuals from both sexes should identify and address these gender-based variations. Studies have also reported clinical differences in the effect of drugs on men and women addicts. Here, we examine whether the treatment is equally effective on men and women, when several demographic covariates are controlled. We construct a “problem severity index” to categorize individuals based on how acute their problems were at the start of the program. We also examine how the choice of treatment modality affects treatment success. Cumulative logit models were used in our analysis. The choice of treatment modality is sex specific, although sex did not appear to be a significant factor for treatment effectiveness when we controlled for other explanatory variables.
Inconsistencies in Estimating the Age of HIV-1 Subtypes Due to Heterotachy

Rate heterogeneity among lineages is a common feature of molecular evolution, and it has long impeded our ability to accurately estimate the age of evolutionary divergence events. The development of relaxed molecular clocks, which model variable substitution rates among lineages, was intended to rectify this problem. Major subtypes of pandemic HIV-1 group M are thought to exemplify closely related lineages with different substitution rates. Here, we report that inferring the time of most recent common ancestor of all these subtypes in a single phylogeny under a single (relaxed) molecular clock produces significantly different dates for many of the subtypes than does analysis of each subtype on its own. We explore various methods to ameliorate this problem. We conclude that current molecular dating methods are inadequate for dealing with this type of substitution rate variation in HIV-1. Through simulation, we show that heterotachy causes root ages to be overestimated.
Dissolved and particulate organic matter source-age characterization in the upper and lower Chesapeake Bay: A combined isotope and biochemical approach

In order to characterize the sources and ages of organic matter contributing to river and estuarine outflow waters, the present study investigated D14C and d13C signatures of the major operationally defined biochemical classes of ultrafiltered dissolved organic matter (UDOM) in conjunction with lipid biomarker and elemental compositions of UDOM and suspended particulate organic matter (POM) in the Chesapeake Bay. Freshwater (Susquehanna River) UDOM was dominated by a molecularly uncharacterized (MUC) fraction, followed by total carbohydrate (TCHO), total hydrolysable amino acid (THAA) and total lipid (TLE) components. In contrast, UDOM at the bay mouth (salinity ,22–24) was comprised mainly of TCHO, followed by MUC, THAA, and TLE. The D14C and d13C signatures of both UDOM and its major biochemical classes indicate that Susquehanna DOM is derived in part from old allochthonous terrestrial sources, whereas young marine sources dominate at the bay mouth. In contrast to the other biochemical classes, lipophilic DOM at both sites was very old (,5,000– 7,000 years B.P.). In addition, factor analysis of lipid biomarker compounds revealed unique signatures for the UDOM and POM pools that imply disparate source and/or recycling properties as well as potential influences due to physical partitioning. Lipid biomarker compounds showed that although autochthonous riverine/estuarine sources dominated both the UDOM and POM pools, terrigenous lipids were elevated in the Susquehanna during high flow conditions. The presence of lipid biomarkers diagnostic of ‘‘fresh’’ algal material in UDOM further suggested its greater reactivity than POM. The observed biochemical and lipid biomarker compositions and isotopic signatures of UDOM and POM are consistent with previous findings suggesting that these two major organic matter pools have dissimilar reactivities and cycling times, and they derive from comparatively unique source-age materials in rivers and estuaries.
Chest roentgenographic techniques for demonstrating human lung tumour xenografts in nude rats

Roentgenographic techniques were investigated for imaging orthotopic lung tumours in anaesthetized nude rats endobronchially implanted with human lung cancer cells. A conventional radiographic unit with a dual-screen, double-emulsion film mammographic receptor produced images preferable to those from a mammographic unit because of superior resolution. Typical exposure factors were 300 mA, 29 kVp, and 17 ms at a focus-film distance of 76 cm with a 2·11 by 2·41 mm effective focal spot and inherent filtration of 1· 2 mm aluminium. Sensitivity for tumour detection was 0·93 for 59 animals with pathologically proved tumours and 0·96 for 54 animals with tumours larger than 4 mm or 50 mg. For 24 pathologically tumour-free animals, specificity was 1·00. For 55 animals radiographically judged to have tumours, positive predictive value was 1·00. For all 83 animals, accuracy was 0·95. This technique effectively demonstrates orthotopic human lung tumours in nude rats and should be useful for noninvasive monitoring of ...
Giant Juvenile Xanthogranuloma: Exophytic and Endophytic Variants

Abstract: Xanthogranulomas larger than 2 cm are rarely reported variants of this otherwise common, benign lesion usually measuring 1 mm to 1 cm in diameter. The natural history of such macronodular xanthogranulomas is uncertain, but appears to parallel the generally predictable course toward involution seen in micronodular lesions. Two patients with macronodular xanthogranuloma illustrate exophytic and endophytic variants, as well as the problems of managing this unusual tumor. Nonoperative observation is advisable if possible, but complicating factors may necessitate surgical excision in some cases.
The use of injectable alphaxalone as a single agent and in combination with ketamine, xylazine, and morphine in the Chilean rose tarantula, Grammostola rosea.

Abstract: This study evaluated the use of the injectable anesthetic, alphaxalone, as a single agent and in combination with ketamine, xylazine, and morphine in the Chilean rose tarantula, Grammostola rosea. Between two and four animals were evaluated for each anesthetic protocol, and two unanesthetized animals were evaluated for comparative purposes. Anesthetic duration, depth, and quality were assessed by scoring responses to tactile and trichobothria stimulation, muscle tone, purposeful movement, righting response, and heart rate throughout each anesthetic event. Alphaxalone administered into the dorsal opisthosoma in the location of the heart at 200 mg/kg produced moderate anesthetic effect with a median duration of 28 min (n = 3; range 25–50). A combination of 200 mg/kg of alphaxalone and 20 mg/kg of ketamine induced a deep anesthetic state with a median anesthetic duration of 27 min (n = 4; range 16–42). The combination of 200 mg/kg of alphaxalone and 20 mg/kg of xylazine produced deep anesthesia wi...
High performance Type II InAs/GaSb superlattices for mid, long, and very long wavelength infrared focal plane arrays

We present our most recent results and review our progress over the past few years regarding InAs/GaSb Type II superlattices for photovoltaic detectors and focal plane arrays. Empirical tight binding methods have been proven to be very effective and accurate in designing superlattices for various cutoff wavelengths from 3.7 μm up to 32 μm. Excellent agreement between theoretical calculations and experimental results has been obtained. High quality material growths were performed using an Intevac modular Gen II molecular beam epitaxy system. The material quality was characterized using x-ray, atomic force microscopy, transmission electron microscope and photoluminescence, etc. Detector performance confirmed high material electrical quality. Details of the demonstration of 256×256 long wavelength infrared focal plane arrays will be presented.
The Management of Atrial Fibrillation in the ICU

Atrial tachyarrhythmias are the most frequent arrhythmias occurring in ICU patients, being particularly common in patients with cardiovascular and respiratory failure. Unlike ambulatory patients in whom atrial fibrillation/flutter (AF) is likely to be short lived, in the critically ill these arrhythmias are unlikely to resolve until the underlying disease process has improved. Urgent cardioversion is indicated for hemodynamic instability. Treatment in hemodynamically stable patients includes correction of treatable precipitating factors, control of the ventricular response rate, conversion to sinus rhythm, and prophylaxis against thromboembolic events in those patients who remain in AF. Diltiazem is the preferred agent for rate control, while procainamide and amiodarone are generally considered to be the antiarrhythmic agents of choice.
Three mitochondrial DNA polymerases are essential for kinetoplast DNA replication and survival of bloodstream form Trypanosoma brucei

Trypanosoma brucei, the causative agent of human African trypanosomiasis, has a complex life cycle that includes multiple life cycle stages and metabolic changes as the parasite switches between insect vector and mammalian host. The parasite's single mitochondrion contains a unique catenated mitochondrial DNA network called kinetoplast DNA (kDNA) that is composed of minicircles and maxicircles. Long-standing uncertainty about the requirement of kDNA in bloodstream form (BF) T. brucei has recently eroded, with reports of posttranscriptional editing and subsequent translation of kDNA-encoded transcripts as essential processes for BF parasites. These studies suggest that kDNA and its faithful replication are indispensable for this life cycle stage. Here we demonstrate that three kDNA replication proteins (mitochondrial DNA polymerases IB, IC, and ID) are required for BF parasite viability. Silencing of each polymerase was lethal, resulting in kDNA loss, persistence of prereplication DNA monomers, and collapse of the mitochondrial membrane potential. These data demonstrate that kDNA replication is indeed crucial for BF T. brucei. The contributions of mitochondrial DNA polymerases IB, IC, and ID to BF parasite viability suggest that these and other kDNA replication proteins warrant further investigation as a new class of targets for the development of antitrypanosomal drugs.
Olympus: an open-source framework for conversational spoken language interface research

We introduce Olympus, a freely available framework for research in conversational interfaces. Olympus' open, transparent, flexible, modular and scalable nature facilitates the development of large-scale, real-world systems, and enables research leading to technological and scientific advances in conversational spoken language interfaces. In this paper, we describe the overall architecture, several systems spanning different domains, and a number of current research efforts supported by Olympus.
Regulation of cell division cycle progression by bcl-2 expression: a potential mechanism for inhibition of programmed cell death

Expression of the bcl-2 gene has been shown to effectively confer resistance to programmed cell death under a variety of circumstances. However, despite a wealth of literature describing this phenomenon, very little is known about the mechanism of resistance. In the experiments described here, we show that bcl-2 gene expression can result in an inhibition of cell division cycle progression. These findings are based upon the analysis of cell cycle distribution, cell cycle kinetics, and relative phosphorylation of the retinoblastoma tumor suppressor protein, using primary tissues in vivo, ex vivo, and in vitro, as well as continuous cell lines. The effects of bcl-2 expression on cell cycle progression appear to be focused at the G1 to S phase transition, which is a critical control point in the decision between continued cell cycle progression or the induction programmed cell death. In all systems tested, bcl-2 expression resulted in a substantial 30-60% increase in the length of G1 phase; such an increase is very substantial in the context of other regulators of cell cycle progression. Based upon our findings, and the related findings of others, we propose a mechanism by which bcl-2 expression might exert its well known inhibition of programmed cell death by regulating the kinetics of cell cycle progression at a critical control point.
Phylogeography of the California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica) using multilocus DNA sequences and ecological niche modeling: Implications for conservation

ABSTRACT. An important step in conservation is to identify whether threatened populations are evolutionarily discrete and significant to the species. A prior mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) phylogeographic study of the California Gnatcatcher (Polioptila californica) revealed no geographic structure and, thus, did not support the subspecies validity of the threatened coastal California Gnatcatcher (P. c. californica). The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service concluded that mtDNA data alone were insufficient to test subspecies taxonomy. We sequenced eight nuclear loci to search for historically discrete groupings that might have been missed by the mtDNA study (which we confirmed with new ND2 sequences). Phylogenetic analyses of the nuclear loci revealed no historically significant groupings and a low level of divergence (G ST = 0.013). Sequence data suggested an older population increase in southern populations, consistent with niche modeling that suggested a northward range expansion following the Last Glacial Maximum...
Land-use and local physical and chemical habitat parameters predict site occupancy by hellbender salamanders

Anthropogenic landscapes negatively impact stream habitats by altering hydrologic, sediment, and nutrient cycling regimes, thereby reducing or displacing populations of sensitive biota. The hellbender (Cryptobranchus alleganiensis) is an imperiled salamander endemic to eastern and central North American streams. Although once widespread, hellbender distributions have contracted and populations have declined in the past several decades. Hellbenders are considered indicators of stream quality; however, few studies have empirically linked hellbender presence to stream habitat or water-quality. We examined the ability of catchment-scale land-use and local physical and chemical habitat parameters to predict hellbender occurrence in an Appalachian headwater river drainage. Generalized linear models revealed that water-quality, local habitat, and catchment land-use are informative predictors of hellbender site occupancy. Because broad-scale land-use changes likely affect hellbender populations at multiple levels, management and conservation should focus on protecting streams at the catchment scale. In this system, ex-urban development appears to be the primary threat to hellbenders. However, threats to hellbender populations may be mitigated by management regulations targeting economically important outdoor recreational activities including trout fishing as well as existing streamside development guidelines.
THE PHYLOGENETIC APPROACH TO AVIAN LIFE HISTORIES: AN IMPORTANT COMPLEMENT TO WITHIN-POPULATION STUDIES

Abstract In recent years, two approaches have emerged for the analysis of character evolution: the largely statistical “convergence” approach and the mainly cladistic “homology” approach. I discuss the strengths and weaknesses of these approaches as they apply to phylogenetic analyses of life-history variation in birds. Using examples from analyses of character variation in swallows, I suggest that the phylogenetic approach yields distinctive insights into the selective role of the environment and other characters of the organism on the evolution of life-history traits. This view thus has the potential of bringing together micro- and macro-evolutionary views of life-history evolution.
A Proposal to Delineate Metropolitan Areas in Colombia

This paper discusses the need to delineate metropolitan areas and current practice in several countries. It argues for the use of a simple algorithm that examines cross-municipality commuting patte...
Surface vs. Bulk Hysteresis Loops

Very recently, it has been established that a large number of common magnetic materials exhibit hysteresis loops that depend on the probing depth of the magnetic measurement done at the surface. This indicates that important magnetic properties like the magnetic anisotropy K and the exchange energy JS1S2 where S1 and S2 are the spins of 2 neighboring atoms along a path perpendicular to the surface, may vary dramatically within a few lattice constants from the surface. The argument can be understood as follows: With bulk values for K and the exchange stiffness A = JS1S2/a where a is the distance of the atoms, the magnetization M will change in direction over distances of the order of \(\sqrt {A/K} \) which is the width of a magnetic domain wall. It typically amounts to 10–100 nm in materials like Fe or magnetite Fe3O4. Hence, if surface hysteresis loops are taken with techniques that differ in probing depth by 10 nm or less, we expect on the basis of the bulk constants that the hysteresis loops must be identical. However, M. Aeschlimann et al.1 showed that a hysteresis loop taken on Fe3O4 using the magneto-optic Kerr-effect with a probing depth of ~20nm shows a remanent magnetization as expected, whereas the magnetization curve taken with spin polarized photoelectrons with a probing depth of ~ 1nm exhibits no remanence at all. Even more dramatic differences between Kerr-effect and spin polarized photoemission occur with the magneto-optic recording materials FeTb and GdCo.2,3. Furthermore, Allenspach and coworkers4 reported that the shape of the hysteresis loops taken on Fe(100) by measuring the spin polarization of the secondary electrons depends on the energy ES of the secondaries. This must come about because the probing depth depends on ES.
Collection development in Canadian studies : a practical model

It is often a difficult task to develop a Canadian studies library collection. As with any area studies collection, where the focus is on a geographic region rather than a particular discipline, a broad range of subjects typically must be covered. To add to the difficulty, Canadian materials are published in both English and French. And if the library is located in the United States, the librarian or bibliographer is faced with the inconvenience of coping with two different national currencies. The complexities inherent in Canadian studies cloud the collection development picture and obscure the appropriate direction to take. With the variety of paths that present themselves and much ground to cover, forming a conceptual road map to follow with confidence is a challenge.
PS-178 Evolution Of Pulmonary Function In Preterm Infants: A Prospective Birth Cohort

Background With advanced pre- and post-natal care, the survival rate of extreme preterm infants has increased significantly. As a result, the incidence of respiratory morbidity and complications has also risen and should require further apprehension during follow up of these premature infants as they grow. Due to the lack of facility and normal reference values for lung function tests in the infant population, data for preterm infants in Taiwan are virtually non-existent. In this study, we investigated respiratory function in preterm and term infants until the age of 18 months. The evolution of longitudinal pulmonary function changes were also investigated. Materials and methods During the period of October of 2012 to September of 2013, infants with informed consent were enrolled in our birth cohort study. After sedation, respiratory function tests were performed by using JAEGER MasterScreen Paediatric, which obtained measurements for the tidal breathing, passive respiratory mechanism, and forced tidal expiration. Tests were measured in preterm infants at corrected ages of 6, 12, and 18 months and term infants at similar age points. Results Respiratory function exams were performed in 56 term and 20 preterm infants. Several parameters of the tidal breathing were found to be significantly different between term and preterm infants in the same chorological age. Increased airway resistance and reduced lung compliance were observed in the preterm babies when compared to term infants. Values of maximal expiratory flow at functional residual capacity in preterm infants were also significantly lower than those of term infants. Discussion Premature babies are known to pose a higher risk for pulmonary developmental anomaly. As shown in our study, most preterm infants demonstrated poor performance in several respiratory function exams despite appearing clinically asymptomatic. With the newly developed technique for measuring forced expiratory flows from raised lung volumes in young infants, it is now possible to better understand the natural history and pathophysiology of young infants who were born prematurely. Additionally, the use of pulmonary function test as a clinical diagnostic tool for diseases such as bronchopulmonary dysplasia will be highly predictive and serves as the primary outcome measures.
The Precursor Polymer Approach to Electrodeposition and Patterning of Conjugated Polymer Ultrathin Films

In this paper, we report strategies for electrodepositing and patterning ultrathin films of conjugated polymers on flat electrode surfaces using the precursor polymer approach. This involves a rational synthesis design of the precursor polymer followed by careful electrodeposition and characterization of ultrathin films on conducting substrates. This has resulted in the preparation of smooth, high optical quality films, which should be important for applications involving flat electrode surfaces in devices. Characterization was made using surface sensitive spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. Copolymerization with monomers, polymer backbone design, and grafting on modified surfaces are key points in this strategy. Novel methods of in-situ characterization techniques have also been developed combing electrochemistry and surface plasmon resonance techniques.
Probiotics for the Treatment of Infantile Colic: A Systematic Review

Objective:To evaluate whether clinical data support the safety and efficacy of probiotics for the management of infantile colic.Background:Probiotics have been suggested as a potential strategy for infantile colic, and the specific species that have been studied in healthy infants are considered to be safe.Methodology:A systematic review was conducted to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the use of probiotic supplementation in infants with colic. RCTs with a primary end point assessing crying or fussing time were selected. A meta-analysis comparing “responders” to “nonresponders” in infants receiving probiotic versus control was conducted. The quality of trials selected was assessed.Results:Five RCTs assessing 2 different strains of the probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri in mostly breastfed infants were identified. Analysis of response rates showed that infants receiving probiotics had a 2.3-fold greater chance of having a 50% or greater decrease in crying/fussing time compared to contr...