cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Estimating urban vegetation cover fraction using Google Earth® images

We exploited publicly available satellite- and aircraft-based imagery to estimate urban vegetation cover fraction and land use by class for a semiarid urban area that includes Phoenix, AZ, USA, using low-cost and technologically modest tools. This technique is also used to evaluate two satellite-derived tree cover datasets as well as to compare estimates from the present study with land cover data generated from another study performed using the same study domain. The approach outlined in this article entails the use of Google Earth® images that are analyzed either visually or by using a more rigorous visually supervised digital reclassification method. Neither method is automated. Determination of optimal sample size was also an objective of the study. The limitations and advantages associated with these approaches are described.
Kinetics of nanoparticle targeting by dissipative particle dynamics simulations.

Dissipative particle dynamics simulations are applied to study nanoparticle targeting to a cell surface containing a high concentration of receptors. We found that the normalized number of bound li...
Determination of infant-safe homes in a community injury prevention program.

Background. The home is the most common site of childhood injury. To address this problem, Orange County Emergency Management developed the novel “Welcome to the World” program to provide paramedic-delivered home safety inspections andinterventions to improve early childhood safety. Objectives. To determine the prevalence of infant-safe homes andto examine differences in home infant safety based on the number of children in the home. Methods. Paramedics visited households with newborns or expectant mothers for a home visit at their request. Each visit included a home safety inspection, correction of certain safety practices, one-on-one teaching of injury prevention topics, anddistribution of educational materials andsafety devices. A retrospective analysis of data recorded during these visits included criteria used in defining an infant-safe home, including 1) presence of a functioning smoke detector, 2) bathwater temperature measured < 120°F, 3) correct crib slat spacing, and4) presence of a car seat. Re...
The Power of Others to Shape Our Identity: Body Image, Physical Abilities, and Body Weight

Other people can profoundly influence individuals' feelings about their own body and physical abilities—important dimensions of personal identity and key factors related to lifestyle and body weight. Atotal of 103 adults shared narratives related to physical activity and body image. In relation to the influence of other people, some participants felt strengthened (e.g., praised, supported), and many participants reported damaging experiences (e.g., embarrassment, ridicule). The constructs of self-esteem and sedimentation of experience helped guide interpretation of participants' stories. From a public health perspective, individuals need to feel competent to adopt and maintain a healthy lifestyle, and they need to feel worthy of living it. Recommendations are offered to help people engender these feelings in other individuals.
Exploiting and Protecting Dynamic Code Generation

Abstract—Many mechanisms have been proposed and de-ployed to prevent exploits against software vulnerabilities. Amongthem, W X is one of the most effective and efﬁcient. W Xprevents memory pages from being simultaneously writableand executable, rendering the decades old shellcode injectiontechnique infeasible.In this paper, we demonstrate that the traditional shellcodeinjection attack can be revived through a code cache injectiontechnique. Speciﬁcally, dynamic code generation, a techniquewidely used in just-in-time (JIT) compilation and dynamic binarytranslation (DBT), generates and modiﬁes code on the ﬂy in orderto promote performance or security. The dynamically generatedcode fragments are stored in a code cache, which is writableand executable either at the same time or alternately, resultingin an opportunity for exploitation. This threat is especiallyrealistic when the generated code is multi-threaded, becauseswitching between writable and executable leaves a time windowfor exploitation. To illustrate this threat, we have crafted a proof-of-concept exploit against modern browsers that support WebWorkers.To mitigate this code cache injection threat, we propose anew dynamic code generation architecture. This new architecturerelocates the dynamic code generator to a separate process,in which the code cache is writable. In the original processwhere the generated code executes, the code cache remains read-only. The code cache is synchronized across the writing processand the execution process through shared memory. Interactionbetween the code generator and the generated code is handledtransparently through remote procedure calls (RPC). We haveported the Google V8 JavaScript engine and the Strata DBTto this new architecture. Our implementation experience showedthat the engineering effort for porting to this new architectureis minimal. Evaluation of our prototype implementation showedthat this new architecture can defeat the code cache injectionattack with small performance overhead.
Chemosensory and feeding responses of the nudibranch Aeolidia papillosa to the symbiotic sea anemone Anthopleura elegantissima

. The aeolid nudibranchAeolidia papillosa is an important predator on the sea anemone Anthopleura elegantissima, a host to two kinds of endosymbiotic algae: zooxanthellae and zoochlorellae. The possible influence of the algae on the nudibranch's predatory response to this anemone was examined in a laboratory study. In chemosensory experiments, the nudibranch detected and chose anemone scent over a seawater control, but in both chemosensory and feeding experiments showed no preference for zooxanthellate or zoochlorellate anemones. Ingestive conditioning on zooxanthellate or zoochlorellate anemones had no effect on choice of these two anemone types in chemosensory experiments. Comparisons of the productivity and photosynthetic pigments of algae obtained from nudibranch feces and from anemones show that both algae survive passage through the nudibranch gut. The productivity of fecal zooxanthellae was 1.6X greater than that of zooxanthellae freshly isolated from anemones, although the chlorophyll a content of fecal zooxanthellae was reduced. The productivity and amount of pigments were the same for zoochlorellae in nudibranch feces and freshly isolated from anemones. Comparing fecal and isolated algae, there was no significant difference in the percentage of zooxanthellae in the process of cell division. However, the percentage of dividing cells was 2.6X higher in fecal than in freshly isolated zoochlorellae (18% and 6.9% respectively). Although the endosymbiotic algae do not make their host more or less attractive to the nudibranch, this predator may play an important role in maintaining the symbiotic relationship of Anthopleura elegantissima with zooxanthellae and zoochlorellae by providing viable algae in its feces as a source for the anemone host.
Homeobox genes Hoxd3 and Hoxd8 are differentially expressed in fetal mouse excisional wounds.

Background Cell signaling pathways underlying wound repair are under extensive investigation; however, there is still a poor understanding of the mechanisms orchestrating these processes. Hox genes, which are a subgroup of homeobox genes, encode for a family of transcription factors that play a critical role in tissue migration and cell differentiation during embryogenesis and may also serve as master regulatory genes of postnatal wound repair. We have developed a fetal excisional wound healing model whereby mid-gestational wounds heal in a regenerative manner while late-gestational wounds display scar formation. We theorize that Hoxd3 and Hoxd8 will be differentially expressed in mid- and late-gestational wounds compared with normal skin. Materials and methods Pregnant FVB mice underwent hysterotomy at mid (E15)- or late (E18)-gestational time points, and 3-mm excisional wounds were made on the dorsum of each fetus. Wound samples (w) were collected at the site of injury as well as near wound normal skin (nwc) on the same fetus. Control (c) skin samples were also obtained from unwounded adjacent fetuses. Samples were harvested at 3 and 6 h and real-time polymerase chain reaction was performed for Hoxd3 and Hoxd8 and normalized to glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase. Data were analyzed by analysis of variance with statistical significance of P Results Hoxd3 levels were increased in all of the mid-gestational groups, with a significant increase at 3 h compared with late-gestational control groups. In the 3-h time group, Hoxd8 is increased in mid-gestational wounds compared with late-gestational control skin. This is repeated in the 6-h time group, where Hoxd8 is increased in mid-gestational wounds compared with all groups. Also, Hoxd8 in the mid-gestational near wound controls is significantly greater than that in the late-gestational near wound control and control groups. Conclusions These data suggest that Hoxd3 is constitutively expressed in the skin of mid-gestational mice. However, Hoxd8 expression is increased in the mid-gestational wounds compared with normal control groups and late gestational wounds, suggesting that it may play a role in scarless wound repair.
Function, effects, and management of forest roads.

Abstract We propose a unified approach to the management and analysis of the function and effects of roads on forested rural landscapes. The approach is based on considering roads as ecosystems (techno-ecosystems) and conducting analyses of road ecology prior to making policy or management decisions. An ecosystem approach to road issues has four advantages: (1) allows for the analysis of all types of roads irrespective of geographic location; (2) provides a holistic framework for analyzing all aspects of roads from their alignment to their operation and decommissioning as well as all road functions irrespective of value judgment; (3) provides a holistic focus to their management; and (4) supplements landscape management approaches based on spatial concepts. We present five precautions to be considered when evaluating road ecosystems: (1) identify the type of road under consideration; (2) differentiate the effects and conditions of individual road segments from those of road networks; (3) be explicit about what phase of road development the argument applies because different phases of development have different effects on the landscape; (4) ascertain the age of the road and evaluate the degree of landscape adjustment to the road and vice versa; and (5) not to prejudge human-induced changes in landscapes as automatically good or bad for the ecology or economy of a region. This ecosystem focus and guiding principles are applied to several issues that road policy and management activities must address.
Local search: A new hidden line elimination algorithm to display spherical coordinate equations

Abstract Local Search, a new hidden line elimination algorithm, is presented. Local Search is a variant of the Scan-Line algorithm. Its performance is compared to that of two other Scan-Line algorithms for elimination of hidden lines from displays defined by spherical coordinate equations. In this paper, metrics are developed to evaluate the theoretical worst-case performance of each algorithm as a function of the display's complexity. Our performance evaluation is restricted to algorithms which can be implemented on personal computers. Data on the run-time performance of each algorithm were then collected to validate the worst case metrics. These data substantiate the hypothesis that, for complex displays, the Local Search algorithm performs hidden line elimination more efficiently than other Scan-Line algorithms.
A proposed neural network for the integrator of the oculomotor system

Single-unit recordings, stimulation studies, and eye movement measurements all indicate that the firing patterns of many oculomotor neurons in the brain stem encode eye-velocity commands in premotor circuits while the firing patterns of extraocular motoneurons contain both eye-velocity and eye-position components. It is necessary to propose that the eye-position component is generated from the eye-velocity signal by a leaky hold element or temporal integrator. Prior models of this integrator suffer from two important problems. Since cells appear to have a steady, background signal when eye position and velocity are zero, how does the integrator avoid integrating this background rate? Most models employ some form of lumped, oositive feedback the gain of which must be kept within totally unreasonable limits for proper operation. We propose a lateral inhibitory network of homogeneous neurons as a model for the neural integrator that solves both problems. Parameter sensitivity studies and lesion simulations are presented to demonstrate robustness of the model with respect to both the choice of parameter values and the consequences of pathological changes in a portion of the neural integrator pool.
Evaluation of molecular electronic devices using a two-tip scanning tunneling microscope

The size of electronic device continues to shrink as efforts to increase device speed push structural dimensions of components into the nanometer range. The ultimate endpoint of this evolution is an information processing technology based on molecular electronic devices. The past decade has seen much conceptual design work on proposed molecular electronic devices, and an increase in the ability of chemists of synthesize complicated organic molecules. We report on progress toward construction of a two-tip scanning tunneling microscope designed to test experimentally the electronic behavior of individual molecular electronic devices.
A Lagrangian dynamic analysis of end effects in a generalized shear experiment

In laboratory shear testing, a primary source of error is the surcharge force caused by relative motion between the displacement actuator and dilating top sample. This force is referred to as end friction, and the changes it produces in experimental data are termed end effects. The results from a laboratory shear setup always represent a superposition of natural sliding behavior and testing machine interference; their relative proportions can be determined by externally modeling the experiment. In this paper, we construct a full Lagrangian dynamic model for the shearing behavior of a prismatic aluminum top-block over a matching asymmetric foundation. End friction is initially included in the analysis, whose viability is established by comparing modeled and experimental top-block sliding paths at 12 different shear loads. The end friction force is ultimately removed from the formulation, and the end effects manifested as the subsequent differences between modeled and experimental sliding paths. It is shown that end effects significantly alter both the sliding path and rotation mode of the prismatic top-sample. While their impact on the trajectory of a given sample appears to decrease with increasing shear force, it is shown that uniform sample scaling does nothing to alleviate the problem, and that end effects are functionally scale independent.
THE MOUNTAIN PASS RARE-EARTH CARBONATITE AND ASSOCIATED ULTRAPOTASSIC ROCKS, CALIFORNIA

The Sulphide Queen carbonatite, which contains the rare-earth orebody at Mountain Pass in California, is a moderately dipping tabular intrusion associated with 1.40 Ga alkaline plutons of similar size and orientation, as well as abundant carbonatite and alkaline dikes. The Mountain Pass carbonatite and alkaline rocks lie in a narrow belt of occurrences of alkaline rocks 130 km long. Both the carbonatite and the associated alkaline rocks are chemically and mineralogically unusual. The mafic members of the Mountain Pass alkaline rock suite belong to the ultrapotassic group, and are most akin to the lamproite subdivision of that group. These rocks are part of a unique ultrapotassic suite in that it ranges from typical mafic lithologies to silicic granite. The association with significant amounts of carbonatite is also unique. Chemical similarities suggest that the carbonatite, which has yielded slightly younger (1.38 Ga) ages, is related to the ultrapotassic rocks. It is not clear if the carbonatite and associated alkaline rocks came from a common magmatic parent, but they likely came from a common enriched source in the mantle.
A Novel, If Awkward, Exercise in International Law-Making: Security Council Resolution 1540 (2004)

The article deals with Security Council Resolution 1540 (2004), of 28 April 2004. In it the Council, acting under Chapter VII of the Charter to keep weapons of mass destruction away from terrorists, imposed obligations on states. Brief observations on the concept of legislation are followed by comments on instances of near legislation by the Council and on Resolution 1373 (2001), of 28 September 2001, in which the Council, reacting under Chapter VII, and unanimously to the dreadful terrorist attacks of the 11th of that month, took measures fully comparable to legislation. Resolution 1373 (2001) imposed on states rules and principles already sanctioned by the General Assembly, which ties in with the lack of any trace of the preparatory work on the resolution, adopted so to speak instantaneously. In contrast, Resolution 1540 (2004), which imposed on states entirely new rules, arose from a protracted and officially mentioned process of private consultations leading to two open Security Council meetings, at which many states commented on the draft resolution under consideration, questioning its constitutionality and pointing to problems of interpretation and application it raised. Those issues, which did not prevent the unanimous adoption of Resolution 1540 (2004), are the main topic of the article.
Exact Schwarzschild-like solution for Yang-Mills theories.

Drawing on the parallel between general relativity and Yang-Mills theory we obtain an exact Schwarzschild-like solution for SU(2) gauge fields coupled to a massless scalar field. Pushing the analogy further we speculate that this classical solution to the Yang-Mills equations shows confinement in the same way that particles become confined once they pass the event horizon of the Schwarzschild solution. Two special cases of the solution are considered.
Hydroxide-catalyzed isomerization of d-[1-13C]mannose: Evidence for the involvement of 3,4-enediols

The KOH-catalyzed isomerization of D-[1-13C]mannose under anaerobic conditions was studied by 13C-n.m.r. spectroscopy. D-[1-13C]Glucose and D-[1-13C]fructose are generated during the reaction, as expected. In addition, however, [6-13C]glucose, [6-13C]mannose, and [6-13C]fructose are produced in small proportions, possibly via symmetrical 3,4-enediol intermediates. The involvement of the latter structures in 13C-label shifting is inferred from the observation of [1-13C]sorbose and [6-13C]sorbose in the reaction mixture.
Triangulated graphs and the elimination process

Abstract A triangulated graph is a graph in which for every cycle of length l > 3, there is an edge joining two nonconsecutive vertices. In this paper we study triangulated graphs and show that they play an important role in the elimination process. The results have application in the study of the numerical solution of sparse positive definite systems of linear equations by Gaussian elimination.
Evidence-Based Management of Infants with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

The mortality rate associated with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) varies widely between centers and remains relatively high despite widespread use of new therapeutic modalities. Many of these have been implemented without properly controlled studies. Over the past 10 to 15 years, only 9 randomized trials enrolling a total of approximately 250 infants with CDH have been published. The limited evidence available suggests that better outcomes are observed by delivering infants with CDH at experienced centers, by delaying surgical repair until hemodynamic and respiratory stability is achieved, and by the judicious utilization of nonaggressive mechanical ventilation and permissive hypercapnea. Other therapeutic modalities, such as high frequency oscillatory ventilation, inhaled nitric oxide, and ECMO, may provide additional advantages for selected infants. There is a dire need to establish networks of centers that manage enough infants with CDH, to conduct appropriately sized randomized trials that can answer some of the critical questions about the management and long-term outcome of these infants.
Comparison of packed column and capillary column supercritical fluid chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography using representative herbicides and pesticides as typical moderate polarity and molecular weight range molecules.

Abstract The role of supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC) as a viable technique for analyzing agricultural products has been investigated using packed and capillary column methodology. The goal was to question the strengths and weaknesses of each of the techniques as possible approaches to separation strategies for thermally labile compounds as compared to the currently used high-performance liquid chromatography methodology. Representative herbicides have been examined with the techniques to compare such factors as linearity of response, limit of detection and reproducibility. In the literature so far, a direct numerical comparison of these three techniques for the analysis of real samples has not been presented. Results indicate that faster analyses, lower detection limits and greater injection to injection reproducibility are obtainable with packed column SFC. No appreciable difference in the linearity of response between the three techniques was noted. It has been well documented that the capillary SFC affords greater efficiencies and higher resolution [H. E. Schwartz, LC · GC, Mag. Liq. Gas Chromatogr., 5 (1987) 14]. Capillary SFC can also be interfaced to a variety of detectors not as easily accomplished with packed column SFC. Capillary SFC therefore still has a viable position in the analysis of low and moderate molecular weight and polarity molecules.
On the Numerical Modeling of an Oldroyd-Type Constitutive Equation

Abstract A one-dimensional coupled set of equations consisting of appropriate forms of an equation of motion and a three-constant Oldroyd constitutive equation, used in the description of certain non-Newtonian flows, has been modeled using a finite-difference technique. These one-dimensional equations may be applicable along the centerline of a symmetric almost parallel flow field, where extensive molecular stretching occurs, with the restrictions of zero pressure gradient and zero shear. Mainly, this article differs from previous numerical work on these equations, such as Townsend's work on a four-constant Oldroyd equation, in that the nonlinear convection terms, which did not appear in this earlier work due to the parallel flow being considered, are now present. In comparison with the full set of equations, it is seen that the structure of the motion and constitutive equation used retain the essential characteristics of the complete set. In the equations, the time and spatial derivatives of both velocity and stress were centered so that in the Newtonian limit of zero relaxation and retardation times, the motion equation would reduce to Burgers' equation with the diffusion term time lagged. Stability of the differencing scheme for the constitutive equation dictated that the convective derivative of the deformation rate be time lagged with respect to the convective derivative of the stress. A von Neumann stability analysis was performed on the model equation yielding restrictions on Δt based on the usual viscous condition and, in addition, on the convective inertial and elastic propagation velocities, and also on the time scale of the straining motion. As a test for the proposed scheme an initial-boundary-value problem was formulated. An analytic steady-state solution to the problem can be obtained in Lagranian coordinates if a constant velocity and a linear stress-deformation rate condition are assumed at the inflow to the flow field. This analytic solution, expressed in Eulerian coordinates, was then used as a check for the iterated steady-state solution.
Capitalizing on brand personalities in advertising: The influence of implicit self‐theories on ad appeal effectiveness

Abstract How can firms use brand personalities to develop the most persuasive advertising appeals? In this article, we examine advertising appeals that capitalize on the signaling opportunities that using these brands can provide (signaling ad appeal) versus the self-improvement opportunities that using these brands can offer (self-improvement ad appeal). In two studies, we find that the effectiveness of these appeals depends on consumers' implicit self-theories. Specifically, signaling ad appeals are more effective for consumers who believe their personal qualities are fixed and cannot be developed through their own efforts (entity theorists), whereas self-improvement ad appeals are more effective for consumers who believe their personal qualities are malleable and can be developed (incremental theorists). Implications for brand personality research and advertising are discussed.
Electron beam computed tomographic coronary calcium score cutpoints and severity of associated angiographic lumen stenosis.

Abstract Objectives. We sought to determine a range of cutpoints for coronary calcium scores measured by electron beam computed tomography (EBCT) in predicting the likely severity of associated angiographic coronary artery stenoses. Background. EBCT can quantify coronary calcium and allow the estimation of atherosclerotic plaque burden, but use of the calcium score to define lumen narrowing is controversial. Methods. A total of 213 patients (mean [±SD] age 50 ± 9 years) underwent coronary angiography and EBCT. Maximal percent diameter stenosis in any artery was paired with total coronary calcium score. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was done using definitions of “disease” for maximal stenosis from ≥20% to 100%, and the corresponding score cutpoints were determined for 90% sensitivity, 90% specificity or “optimal” sensitivity and specificity. Results. ROC curve areas ranged from a mean (±SE) of 0.91 ± 0.02 for ≥20% stenosis to 0.83 ± 0.03 for 100% stenosis. Optimal calcium score cutpoints consisted of nonoverlapping values ranging from 15 for ≥20% stenosis to 327 for 100% stenosis, whereas sensitivities and specificities ranged from 78% to 84%, depending on maximal stenosis severity. Calcium score cutpoints for 90% sensitivity and 90% specificity were also nonoverlapping and ranged from 3 and 27, respectively, for ≥20% stenosis to 154 and 945, respectively, for 100% stenosis; corresponding specificities and sensitivities ranged from 40% to 78%. Conclusions. These data define the ranges for EBCT coronary calcium score cutpoints that predict the likely severity of associated maximal angiographic stenosis severity to a high sensitivity, high specificity or optimal sensitivity/specificity. These cutpoints potentially can be used in conjunction with clinical variables to predict the severity of lumen narrowing in patients undergoing assessment for coronary artery disease. (J Am Coll Cardiol 1997;29:1542–8)
The Degradation of Oligogalacturonides by the Polygalacturonase of Bacillus Polymyxa

Abstract Studies were made of the action of the polygalacturonase of Bacillus polymyxa (BPG) on the lower Oligogalacturonides. Both the crude exocellular enzyme and fractions separated by cellulose chromatography were able to hydrolyze trigalacturonic acid but not digalacturonic acid. Hydrolysis of trigalacturonate by BPG yields the altered dimer and monogalacturonate, while hydrolysis of the tetramer yields monomer and an altered trimer and, at a slower rate, normal dimer and an altered dimer. In addition, evidence is presented that the polygalacturonase attacks from the non-reducing end. One of the major end products of the action of BPG on pectic substances appears to be a dimer which is different from normal digalacturonate. This compound has been purified and partially characterized. The carboxyl to aldehyde group ratio is 1.98. Assuming one aldehyde group per molecule, the calculated molecular weight of the free acid is almost identical with that of normal dimer (367 and 370, respectively). The specific rotation [α]D22 of the altered dimer is +177.8 ° (which is similar to that of normal dimer [α]D22 = +173 °). This suggests that the altered dimer has retained the α configuration. This compound shows a strong absorption peak between 230 and 235 mμ which in turn indicates that it contains an α,β unsaturated bond. Thus, it was concluded that the enzyme is actually a trans-eliminase rather than a hydrolase. The altered dimer is not hydrolyzed by BPG. However, both this compound and normal dimer are attacked by a digalacturonicidase contained within the cells.
SRC regulates constitutive internalization and rapid resensitization of a cholecystokinin 2 receptor splice variant.

The third intracellular loop domain of G protein-coupled receptors regulates their desensitization, internalization, and resensitization. Colorectal and pancreatic cancers, but not the nonmalignant tissue, express a splice variant of the cholecystokinin 2 receptor (CCK2R) called CCK2i4svR that, because of intron 4 retention, contains an additional 69 amino acids within its third intracellular loop domain. This structural alteration is associated with agonist-independent activation of Src kinase (Olszewska-Pazdrak, B., Townsend, C. M., Jr., and Hellmich, M. R. (2004) J. Biol. Chem. 279, 40400–40404). The purpose of the study was to determine the roles of intron 4 retention and Src kinase on CCK2i4svR desensitization, internalization, and resensitization. Gastrin1–17 (G17) binds to both CCK2R and CCK2i4svR and induces intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) increases. Agonist-induced increases in [Ca2+]i were used to assess receptor activity. Src kinase activity was inhibited by transducing cells with a retrovirus containing a dominant-negative mutant Src (A430V). The subcellular location of enhanced green fluorescent protein-tagged receptors was monitored using laser scanning confocal microscopy. Both receptor variants desensitized at the same rate; however, CCK2i4svR resensitized five times faster than CCK2R. Without agonist, 80% of CCK2i4svR is located in an intracellular compartment. In contrast, 80% of CCK2R was located on the plasma membrane. Treatment with inverse agonist (YM022) or expression of dominant-negative Src blocked the constitutive internalization of CCK2i4svR, resulting in its accumulation on the plasma membrane. Expression of dominant-negative Src slowed the rate of CCK2i4svR resensitization. Inhibition of Src did not affect G17-induced internalization of either receptor variant. Constitutive internalization of CCK2i4svR increases its rate of resensitization by creating an intracellular pool of receptors that can rapidly recycle back to the plasma membrane.
Antitumor activity and toxicity of peroxo heteroligand vanadates(V) in relation to biochemistry of vanadium

A selected set of 14 V(V) complexes was tested for toxicity and antitumor activity against L1210 murine leukemia, to examine the biological properties of peroxoheteroligand vanadates(V) of the formula (NH4)4[O{VO(O2)2}2], M3I[VO(O2)2C2O4], and MI[VO(O2)L], L = malate, citrate, iminodiacetate, nitrilotriacetate, and EDTA. The x-ray structure is known for five of these compounds. A relationship has been found between the chemical composition and the biological activity (antitumor activity-toxicity) of these complexes. Activity in the L1210 system is defined as ⩾25% increase in life span, and this was seen with (NH4)4[O{VO(O2)2}2]; M3[VO(O2)2(C2O4)]2H2O, M = K, NH4; and NH4[VO(O2)Malato]H2O. These observations are important for the biochemistry of vanadium. The special nature of electron transfer within the V(V)-peroxo moiety is proposed to be responsible for this phenomenon. Peroxo heteroligand vanadates(V) therefore represent a model system for studying some biochemical interactions of vanadium in living matter.
Expression of the 25-kDa heat-shock protein (HSP27) correlates withresistance to the toxicity of cadmium chloride, mercuric chloride, cis-platinum(II)-diammine dichloride, or sodium arsenite in mouse embryonic stem cells transfected with sense or antisense HSP27 cDNA

Abstract Embryonic stem (ES) cells were transfected with the protein-codingregion of rat HSP27 eDNA placed in sense or antisense orientation in vector pcDNA3 under the control of the constitutive cytomegalovirus (CMV) promoter. Compared with nontransfected ES cells, five sense HSP27 cDNA-transfected ES cell clones displayed up to fourfold increases in expression of HSP27 mRNA and up to sixfold increases in expression of HSP27 protein, whereas four antisense HSP27 eDNA-transfected ES cell lines exhibited synthesis of antisense HSP27 RNA and a 50–85% decrease in HSP27 protein expression. Compared to the parental ES cell lines or ES cells transfected with the vector lacking any HSP27 sequence, all ES cell lines overexpressing HSP27 were resistant to killing by cadmium chloride (CdCl2), mercuric chloride (HgCl2), cis-platinum(II)-diammine dichloride (cDDP), sodium arsenite (NaAsO2), and heat while ES cell lines expressing reduced HSP27 were more sensitive to metal toxicity and heat. The relative toxicities of the tested metals to ES cells were cDDP > NaAsO2 > HgCl2 > CdCl2. Protection of ES cells against metal or heat toxicity was positively correlated with the level of HSP27. These data confirm in ES cells previous reports of the ability of HSP27 to protect other cell types against heat and demonstrate that HSP27 protects mammalian cells against the toxic effects of diverse metals.
Patterns of skill attainment and loss in young children with autism

The purpose of this study was to extend the literature on the ontogeny of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by examining early attainment and loss of specific sociocommunicative skills in children with autism (AUT; n = 125), pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS; n = 42), nonspectrum developmental delays (n = 46), and typical development (n = 31). The ages of skill attainment and loss were obtained from a caregiver interview. The findings indicated that children with AUT, PDD-NOS, and developmental delays diverged from typically developing children in attainment of sociocommunicative skills early in the first year of life. Loss of at least one skill was reported in a majority of children with AUT and PDD-NOS. Significant delays in attainment of skills were also reported in children who lost skills. The wide variation in skill attainment and loss reported across children indicates that symptom onset and regression may be best represented continuously, with at least some early delay and loss present for a great majority of children with ASD.
Partner change and perinatal outcomes: a systematic review

Epidemiological studies suggest that partner change may affect perinatal outcomes in subsequent pregnancies. We conducted a systematic review on the association between paternity change and perinatal outcomes. We searched the literature in MEDLINE using keywords 'paternity', 'partner', 'pre-eclampsia', 'preterm birth', 'low birth weight', and 'birth defects' from 1966 to 2005. We identified 19 studies that examined the association between partner change and specific perinatal outcomes: 12 on pre-eclampsia or hypertension in pregnancy, three on birth defects, three on preterm birth, and two on low birthweight. Partner change was consistently associated with an increased risk of pre-eclampsia or hypertension in pregnancy in 11 of 12 studies (the unadjusted relative risk [RR] ranging from 1.2 to 8.3). However, after controlling for birth interval as a confounder in multivariate analysis, two studies using the same birth registry data showed a modestly reduced risk in relation to partner change (RR=0.84 and 0.73, respectively), while two studies found a slightly increased risk (both RR=1.3). Retrospective cohort studies presented inconsistent findings on the association between partner change and risk of preterm birth and low birthweight. Finally, three population-based cohort studies demonstrated that partner change significantly reduced the recurrence of the same or similar birth defects in subsequent births (RRs ranging from 0.1 to 0.76). We conclude that partner change reduces the risk of recurrent same birth defects. However, epidemiological evidence on the effect of partner change on pre-eclampsia, preterm birth and low birthweight is inconclusive. Whether birth interval should be controlled for in the association between partner change and pre-eclampsia warrants caution.
Superstring interactions in a pp -wave background

We construct light-cone gauge superstring field theory in a pp-wave background with Ramond-Ramond flux. The leading term in the interaction Hamiltonian is determined up to an overall function of ${p}^{+}$ by requiring closure of the pp-wave superalgebra. The bosonic and fermionic Neumann matrices for this cubic vertex are derived, as is the interaction point operator. We comment on the development of a $1/\ensuremath{\mu}{p}^{+}$ expansion for these results.
Alpha II-spectrin breakdown products serve as novel markers of brain injury severity in a canine model of hypothermic circulatory arrest.

Background The development of specific biomarkers to aid in the diagnosis and prognosis of neuronal injury is of paramount importance in cardiac surgery. Alpha II-spectrin is a structural protein abundant in neurons of the central nervous system and cleaved into signature fragments by proteases involved in necrotic and apoptotic cell death. We measured cerebrospinal fluid alpha II-spectrin breakdown products (αII-SBDPs) in a canine model of hypothermic circulatory arrest (HCA) and cardiopulmonary bypass. Methods Canine subjects were exposed to either 1 hour of HCA (n = 8; mean lowest tympanic temperature 18.0 ± 1.2°C) or standard cardiopulmonary bypass (n = 7). Cerebrospinal fluid samples were collected before treatment and 8 and 24 hours after treatment. Using polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and immunoblotting, SBDPs were isolated and compared between groups using computer-assisted densitometric scanning. Necrotic versus apoptotic cell death was indexed by measuring calpain and caspase-3 cleaved αII-SBDPs (SBDP 145+150 and SBDP 120, respectively). Results Animals undergoing HCA demonstrated mild patterns of histologic cellular injury and clinically detectable neurologic dysfunction. Calpain-produced αII-SBDPs (150 kDa+145 kDa bands–necrosis) 8 hours after HCA were significantly increased ( p = 0.02) as compared with levels before HCA, and remained elevated at 24 hours after HCA. In contrast, caspase-3 αII-SBDP (120 kDa band–apoptosis) was not significantly increased. Animals receiving cardiopulmonary bypass did not demonstrate clinical or histologic evidence of injury, with no increases in necrotic or apoptotic cellular markers. Conclusions We report the use of αII-SBDPs as markers of neurologic injury after cardiac surgery. Our analysis demonstrates that calpain- and caspase-produced αII-SBDPs may be an important and novel marker of neurologic injury after HCA.
Optimization of a filter-lysis protocol to purify rat testicular homogenates for automated spermatid counting.

Quantifying testicular homogenization-resistant spermatid heads (HRSH) is a powerful indicator of spermatogenesis. These counts have traditionally been performed manually using a hemocytometer, but this method can be time consuming and biased. We aimed to develop a protocol to reduce debris for the application of automated counting, which would allow for efficient and unbiased quantification of rat HRSH. We developed a filter-lysis protocol that effectively removes debris from rat testicular homogenates. After filtering and lysing the homogenates, we found no statistical differences between manual (classic and filter-lysis) and automated (filter-lysis) counts using 1-way analysis of variance with Bonferroni's multiple comparison test. In addition, Pearson's correlation coefficients were calculated to compare the counting methods, and there was a strong correlation between the classic manual counts and the filter-lysis manual (r = 0.85, P = .002) and the filter-lysis automated (r = 0.89, P = .0005) counts. We also tested the utility of the automated method in a low-dose exposure model known to decrease HRSH. Adult Fischer 344 rats exposed to 0.33% 2,5-hexanedione in the drinking water for 12 weeks demonstrated decreased body (P = .02) and testes (P = .002) weights. In addition, there was a significant reduction in the number of HRSH per testis (P = .002) when compared to controls. A filterlysis protocol was optimized to purify rat testicular homogenates for automated HRSH counts. Automated counting systems yield unbiased data and can be applied to detect changes in the testis after low-dose toxicant exposure.
Determination of Chromatographic Elution Profiles Using Non-normalized Singular Value Evolving Profiles

An approach to determining component-wise chromatographic elution profiles is proposed. The method uses non-normalized spectra from a spectrochromatogram and subsequent singular value decompositions of these data to create second singular value evolving profiles (SVEP2s). The SVEP2s are shown to approximate actual elution profiles for all components in a sample. Gas chromatography Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, liquid chromatography with photodiode array detection, and simulated spectrochromatograms are used to test the effectiveness of this method. The high correlations found between estimated elution profiles and actual chromatograms affirms the ability of the approach.
FIML estimation of the dollar-deutschemark risk premium in a portfolio model

Abstract This paper tests the null of a constant risk premium against an alternative where the risk premium changes with regimes. The reduced form equations for the spot rate and the net supply of foreign assets are derived from a portfolio model and a flow equation for the current account. Regime changes alter the spot rate forecast variance and consequently change demand elasticities and reduced form parameters. Using data for 1964-83 and permitting regime changes in 1969, 1973, and 1979, we fit our model with FIML to impose all the theoretical restrictions. In some specifications we find evidence for risk aversion.
Relationship of trace metals to the alcohol-effect in citric acid synthesis by Aspergillus fonsecaeus

Synthesis of citric acid by Aspergillus fonsecaeus in a basal medium supplemented with trace metals (iron, zinc, copper, and manganese) and methanol has been investigated. Methanol was found to be stimulatory to acid synthesis when manganese or manganese and iron were present. No other mineral tested could be substituted for manganese in the presence of the alcohol. However, comparable yields of citric acid could be obtained if methanol were deleted, the concentration of iron increased and zinc substituted for manganese.
Low-dimensional bose liquids: beyond the gross-pitaevskii approximation

The Gross-Pitaevskii approximation is a long-wavelength theory widely used to describe a variety of properties of dilute Bose condensates, in particular trapped alkali gases. We point out that for short-ranged repulsive interactions this theory fails in dimensions $d\ensuremath{\le}2$, and we propose the appropriate low-dimensional modifications, which have a universal form. For $d\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}=\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}1$ we analyze density profiles in confining potentials, superfluid properties, solitons, and self-similar solutions.
Rhodamnia longisepala (Myrtaceae): An endangered species from Northeastern Queensland, Australia

Rhodamnia longisepala N. Snow & A. J. Ford is described from the Windsor Tableland region of northeastern Queensland, Australia. All known collections occur in the Chowchilla Logging Area of State Forest Reserve 144. Since only nine plants are known over an area of 1 km2, the species is considered highly vulnerable. The new species is distinguished from others in Rhodamnia by the persistent and erect subulate sepal lobes of the fruit. The fruit droops at maturity, is covered by densely villous to hirsute hairs, and lacks a reddish stage en route to its purplish black mature color. Domatia are present on the abaxial leaf surface where the major lateral nerves join the midnerve near the petiole. Rhodamnia longisepala somewhat resembles R. rubescens in leaf morphology and pubescence, but the latter species is far more common and is distributed from southeastern Queensland to southeastern New South Wales.
Long-run price elasticities and the Marshall–Lerner condition revisited

Abstract In estimating trade elasticities most previous researchers employed nonstationary data and OLS or 2SLS method. With new developments in the literature, this paper uses stationary data and Johansen's cointegration analysis to provide new trade elasticities for almost 30 countries.
Attenuation correction of equilibrium radionuclide angiography for noninvasive quantitation of cardiac output and ventricular volumes

Gated equilibrium radionuclide angiography (RNA) provides count information which is proportional to ventricular volumes. In order to convert ventricular count data directly to accurate absolute volumes, we performed attenuation correction on equilibrium radionuclide angiograms by means of a simple geometric method of attenuation distance quantitation. Attenuation distance defined during imaging agreed with similar measurements obtained during fluoroscopy (r = 0.86). In seven patients, 23 simultaneous cardiac output determinations by Fick and radionuclide imaging techniques showed excellent correlation over a wide range of cardiac outputs (r = 0.91). Radionuclide angiographic ventricular volumes correlated with contrast angiographic ventricular volumes in 28 patients (r = 0.80). The weaker correlation found for ventricular volume data may be due to inaccuracies in ventricular volume calculation when single-plane contrast angiography is applied to patients with wall motion abnormalities. We conclude that attenuation-corrected RNA allows direct calculation of cardiac output and ventricular volumes in individual patients without use of regression equations.