cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Linking environmental conditions and ship movements to estimate invasive species transport across the global shipping network

Aim Some nations, and the International Maritime Organization, are moving towards requirements for managing ballast water to reduce the number of alien species transported and released. These and other measures will be most efficient when targeted at ships posing the greatest risks. Here, we analyse world-wide ship movements and port environmental conditions to explore how these risk components differ across arriving ships. Location Global, with a case study of the Laurentian Great Lakes. Methods We gathered salinity and temperature data for all global shipping ports, and data for all global ship movements during a 12 -month period. We applied these data to the Laurentian Great Lakes to determine which global ports may donate new species to the Great Lakes via ship traffic, and which are most environmentally similar to the Great Lakes. Results We show that ships regularly travel to the Great Lakes from all major coastal, and many inland, regions of the world. Most global ports, and thus the species in them, are separated from the Great Lakes by no more than two ship voyages. Combined with a measure of environmental similarity among global ports, we identify ship routes likely to transport species adapted for survival in the Great Lakes and global regions that may be the source of increasing future invasions. Main conclusions The Great Lakes account for a small fraction of global shipping yet are closely connected to all other ports, and the species in them, by the shipping network. Our methods and data allow risks from individual ships to be ranked so that management activities can be targeted at ships most likely to introduce new invaders. Because our data sets are global, they could be applied to ship arrivals at any global port.
OASYS: a tool for aiding in design of high performance linear circuits

A circuit-optimization tool, OASYS, and the way it has helped in the design of high-performance linear circuits is discussed. Performance requirements may be conflicting in nature; improving one performance may degrade another performance or the circuit may be so complex that it is impossible to analyze it to obtain correct device sizes. These problems are faced in the design of TLE2027/37 op amps, where the goal was to maximize the gain bandwidth of the op amps while keeping the phase margin within the desired constraint limits. Conventional techniques had failed to do this in a reasonable amount of time. The methodology in OASYS is to use sensitivities (with regard to design parameters) generated by SPICE2 and the mini-max algorithm to tune the design parameters to achieve the desired goal. OASYS was used to optimize the performance of the TL2027/37 op amps. The OASYS methodology is described with special emphasis on the algorithms used. Results for the TLE2027/37 op amps predicted by OASYS and those extracted from the lab are compared to prove the accuracy of this tool. >
Cost-efficacy analysis of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme a reductase inhibitors based on results of the STELLAR trial: clinical implications for therapeutic selection.

Study Objective. To compare the cost/1% reduction in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) and the cost/patient achieving the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP ATP III) LDL goal based on the results of the Statin Therapies for Elevated Lipid Levels Compared Across Doses to Rosuvastatin (STELLAR) trial. Design. Cost-efficacy analysis. Intervention. Investigators in the STELLAR trial evaluated percentage reductions in LDL and achievement of the ATP III LDL goal for various doses of atorvastatin, pravastatin, rosuvastatin, and simvastatin. We derived efficacy estimates for these four statins from the results of this trial. We also derived drug acquisition costs from the average wholesale prices to estimate the cost/1% reduction in LDL levels and the cost/patient achieving the ATP III LDL goal. Measurements and Main Results. In the STELLAR trial, doses of rosuvastatin produced reductions in LDL significantly greater than those of equivalent milligram/milligram doses of atorvastatin, simvastatin, or pravastatin. The annual acquisition cost/percentage LDL reduction was lower with rosuvastatin at doses of 10 mg ($20.92), 20 mg ($18.28), and 40 mg ($17.42) than with the other statins analyzed. Rosuvastatin also had a lower average cost/patient achieving the ATP III LDL goal over 6 weeks than that of the other statins. Conclusion. Although the long-term clinical benefits and safety data from the increased LDL reduction achieved with rosuvastatin remain uncertain, rosuvastatin may be the most cost-effective statin among those analyzed in terms of acquisition cost/1% reduction in LDL levels and in terms of patients achieving ATP III LDL goals. On the basis of the efficacy estimates from the STELLAR trial in conjunction with acquisition cost, a potential cost savings could be realized from the use of rosuvastatin.
Crystal structures of 70S ribosomes bound to release factors RF1, RF2 and RF3.

Termination is a crucial step in translation, most notably because premature termination can lead to toxic truncated polypeptides. Most interesting is the fact that stop codons are read by a completely different mechanism from that of sense codons. In recent years, rapid progress has been made in the structural biology of complexes of bacterial ribosomes bound to translation termination factors, much of which has been discussed in earlier reviews [ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 ]. Here, we present a brief overview of the structures of bacterial translation termination complexes. The first part summarizes what has been learned from crystal structures of complexes containing the class I release factors RF1 and RF2. In the second part, we discuss the results and implications of two recent X-ray structures of complexes of ribosomes bound to the translational GTPase RF3. These structures have provided many insights and a number of surprises. While structures alone do not tell us how these complicated molecular assemblies work, is it nevertheless clear that it will not be possible to understand their mechanisms without detailed structural information.
Endocrine control of the maternal pheromone in the postpartum female rat.

Abstract The maternal pheromone in the postparturient female rat was shown to be under prolactin control. Ergocornine, a drug known to inhibit discharge of the tropin completely eliminated the pheromone, while prolactin replacement restored the pheromone. Removal of adrenal and ovarian hormones does not interfere with the emission of the attractant.
Is the United States Postcolonial?: Transnationalism, Immigration, and Race

When I completed my doctorate in 1987, postcolonial studies was not a clearly defined field. I (like other diasporic Third World academics of my generation) applied for jobs in literature, to which...
The Karyote physico-chemical genomic, proteomic, metabolic cell modeling system.

Modeling approaches to the dynamics of a living cell are presented that are strongly based on its underlying physical and chemical processes and its hierarchical spatio-temporal organization. Through the inclusion of a broad spectrum of processes and a rigorous analysis of the multiple scale nature of cellular dynamics, we are attempting to advance cell modeling and its applications. The presentation focuses on our cell modeling system, which integrates data archiving and quantitative physico-chemical modeling and information theory to provide a seamless approach to the modeling/data analysis endeavor. Thereby the rapidly growing mess of genomic, proteomic, metabolic, and cell physiological data can be automatically used to develop and calibrate a predictive cell model. The discussion focuses on the Karyote® cell modeling system and an introduction to the CellX® and VirusX® models. The Karyote software system integrates three elements: (1) a model-building and data archiving module that allows one to defi...
Thoracoscopic esophageal myotomy in the treatment of achalasia

We treated 24 patients with achalasia using thoracoscopic (22 patients) or laparoscopic (2 patients) esophagomyotomy. The only operative complications were mucosal lacerations, which occurred in 3 patients and required conversion to an open procedure in 2. Twenty-two (91%) patients were eating by the second postoperative day. Analgesics were only required for the management of pain from the chest tube, which remained in place for a median time of 24 hours. The median postoperative hospital stay was 3 days (range, 20 to 14 days). The myotomy proved to be incomplete in the first 3 patients, who required a second myotomy; this was done laparoscopically in 2. One patient had a paraesophageal hernia repaired 6 months after the myotomy, and 1 patient required an esophagectomy 1 year after the myotomy for a large nonfunctioning esophagus. Late follow-up showed that swallowing was excellent in 17 (71%) and fair to good in 4 (17%). Sixteen (66%) of these 24 patients have regained their original weight. Thus, excellent to good results were ultimately obtained in nearly 90% of the patients. These results suggest that esophageal myotomy performed using minimally invasive techniques appears to be the treatment of choice for achalasia.
Properties of Thermosets Derived from Chemically Modified Triglycerides and Bio-Based Comonomers

A series of materials was prepared by curing acrylated epoxidized soybean oil (AESO) and dibutyl itaconate (DBI) or ethyl cinnamate (EC) comonomers to provide examples of thermosets with a high proportion of bio-based carbon, in accordance with the principles of green chemistry. The comonomers, representative of cellulose-derived (DBI) or potentially lignin-derived (EC) raw materials, were tested at levels of 25%, 33%, and 50% by mass and the resulting products were characterized by infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and dynamic mechanical analysis. Both DBI and EC were incorporated into the thermosets to a high extent (>90%) at all concentrations tested. The AESO-DBI and AESO-EC blends showed substantial degradation at 390–400 °C, similar to pure AESO. Glass transition temperatures decreased as comonomer content increased; the highest Tg of 41.4 °C was observed for AESO-EC (3:1) and the lowest Tg of 1.4 °C was observed for AESO-DBI (1:1). Accordingly, at 30 °C the storage modulus values were highest for AESO-EC (3:1, 37.0 MPa) and lowest for AESO-DBI (1:1, 1.5 MPa).
Functional amyloid--from bacteria to humans.

Amyloid – a fibrillar, cross β-sheet quaternary structure – was first discovered in the context of human disease and tissue damage, and was thought to always be detrimental to the host. Recent studies have identified amyloid fibers in bacteria, fungi, insects, invertebrates and humans that are functional. For example, human Pmel17 has important roles in the biosynthesis of the pigment melanin, and the factor XII protein of the hemostatic system is activated by amyloid. Functional amyloidogenesis in these systems requires tight regulation to avoid toxicity. A greater understanding of the diverse physiological applications of this fold has the potential to provide a fresh perspective for the treatment of amyloid diseases.
Sedimentology, structural geology, and tectonics of the Shikoku subduction zone, southwestern Japan

The Shikoku subduction zone is developed along the Nankai Trough where the Philippine plate is underthrust beneath the Asian plate. The landward wall of the Nankai Trough consists of horizontal parallel ridges and basins that trend northeastward. A Deep Sea Drilling Project site (Leg 31, site 298) on the landward flank of the deepest ridge penetrated 525 m of beds in normal stratigraphic position and 86 m of overturned beds (all of Quaternary age), indicating an overturned anticline. The tight, overturned anticline, which trends parallel to the Nankai Trough, has an inter-limb angle of 9°, an axial surface inclined 9° to 14° landward, and a convergently fanning axial plane fracture cleavage. A coarsening-upward turbidite sequence defines a trench facies and demonstrates direct accretion of deposits from this environment. The convergence rate in the Shikoku subduction zone is estimated to be from 1 to 2 cm/yr, with a strain rate of about 10 −13 /sec. Tectonic consolidation has reduced the volume of the subducted and accreted rocks at least one-third. Olistrostromes form as a direct consequence of fold evolution in the submarine environment and can be immediately underthrust, thereby developing a structural fabric.
Midbrain heating in freely behaving cats (Felis domesticus): further evidence on the role of serotonin in thermoregulation.

Abstract 1. 1. Using chronically-implanted thermodes, the region of the warm-sensitive serotonin-containing midbrain raphe nuclei was heated in unanesthetized and unrestrained cats at ambient temperatures of 10°C, 21°C and 30°C. 2. 2. The rate of change of hypothalamic temperature was used as a sensitive index of thermoregulatory responses. 3. 3. The rate of hypothalamic cooling observed during mild midbrain heating is directly related to the degree of heating and inversely related to the ambient temperature. 4. 4. The results suggest that a thermally activated midbrain serotonin system acts to lower brain temperature in the cat. A discussion of the literature which supports and contradicts this hypothesis is presented.
Impact of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices’ 4-Day Grace Period in a Low-Income Community

Background: In 2002, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended vaccine doses administered </=4 days before the minimum age or interval be counted as valid. The study objective was to assess the impact of the 4-day grace period on the need for revaccination and associated costs in a low-income community, compared to standard practice (i.e., repeating all doses that fall outside current ACIP guidelines). Methods: From 1999 to 2001, semi-annual immunization assessments of 8293 randomly selected children, aged 19–35 months, were conducted at a 16-practice network serving an underserved community in New York City. Outcome measures were rates of antigen-specific invalid doses and number of children needing revaccination, with and without the 4-day grace period. Revaccination costs were based on the Vaccines for Children (VFC) price list. Results: The 4-day grace period reduced the number of children needing revaccination from 17.1% to 12.0%, a drop of 30%. The rates of invalid doses decreased from 1.9% to 1.3%, a drop of 33%. Invalid doses for hepatitis B (HepB)-2 decreased by two thirds (69.7%); for diphtheria–tetanus–acellular pertussis (DTaP)-1, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)-1 and Hib-3 by half (44.9%–50.0%); for Polio-1, Polio-2, Polio-3, and measles–mumps–rubella (MMR) by one third (31.6%–33.3%); and for DTaP-2, DTaP-3, HepB-3, and varicella by nearly one quarter (20.0%–24.0%). At these rates, revaccinating 100,000 children younger than age 3 years would cost $213,588 per year, compared to $152,539 with the 4-day grace period, in vaccine costs alone. Conclusions: In a low-income community, ACIP’s 4-day grace period made a significant impact on the number of children requiring revaccination and on revaccination costs. However, the number of children needing revaccination remains high.
Parameter estimation for instantaneous spectral imaging

Spectral imaging is a fundamental diagnostic technique in physical sciences with widespread application. Conventionally, spectral imaging techniques rely on a scanning process, which renders them unsuitable for dynamic scenes. Here we study the problem of estimating the physical parameters of interest from the measurements of a non-scanning spectral imager based on a parametric model. This inverse problem, which can be viewed as a multi-frame deblurring problem, is formulated as a maximum a posteriori (MAP) estimation problem. The global optimum of the nonlinear MAP problem is found using an efficient dynamic programming algorithm. Lastly, the method is illustrated for an application in solar spectral imaging. Numerical results suggest that estimation accuracy is comparable to the conventional slit spectroscopy, but with the added benefit of a two-dimensional field-of-view.
SLOWDOWN IN THE PER-WORLD WAR ONE ECONOMY

A more detailed examination of the evidence considered in Feinstein (in this Review) suggests that there was an identifiable slowdown in the rate of British economic growth at the end of the nineteenth century. The break in output and productivity growth around 1900 is clear and dramatic. Between 1899 and 1913, MFP growth was only 0.1 per cent a year, compared to 0.7 per cent a year between 1873 and 1899. If improvements in labour force quality are transferred from the residual to labour input, as they should be, productivity growth is lower throughout the period, and may well be negative in the Edwardian period.1 On this basis, the British economy certainly underwent deceleration and may also have experienced absolute decline after 1900. In output, consumption, and productivity terms, the Edwardian decade is exposed as the period in which the smooth flow of Victorian prosperity was broken.
Risk analysis and risk management models for information systems security applications

Abstract This paper presents and discusses the models and procedures of a method for assessment and management of risk related to the operation of computer-based information systems. This method, called LRAM (Livermore Risk Analysis Methodology) was developed at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) for the Air Force Logistics Command (AFLC). The LRAM risk model structure is designed to permit the systematic identification and evaluation of information systems assets, potential threats to these assets, possible consequences that may result from the impact of threats on assets, and risk reduction benefits that may be obtained by selecting and applying in a given system additional preventive or mitigative security controls. LRAM contains decision models which allow the information systems security decision-maker to evaluate and prioritize, on the basis of preselected decision criteria, various options of system design, security policy and control application. The paper also discusses the relation between risk management and risk analysis in the information systems security field, and some of the common difficulties which may be encountered therein in the integration of this approach with less formal applications of risk management policy and practices.
Children's Decisions About Naughtiness and Punishment: Dominance of Expiatory Punishments

Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine whether or not children's decisions regarding naughtiness and types of punishment differ according to age and sex. One hundred thirty-five subjects were interviewed after hearing two stories from Piaget's (1932/1965) initial study of moral reasoning in children. Subjects were asked: (a) whether or not both children were naughty and how the subjects knew that; (b) should either or both children be punished; and (c) if so, what type of punishment should be given? Consistent with Piaget's findings, significant age variability was found. Counter to Piaget's findings, age seemed not to account significantly for more expiatory type punishment suggestions than sanctions by reciprocity. The findings imply that the children in the study did not make the connection between the act that was committed and what logical consequences followed.
Isolation, sequence and expression of two members of the 32 kd thylakoid membrane protein gene family from the cyanobacterium Anabaena 7120.

The cyanobacterium Anabaena contains at least three copies of DNA sequences related to the unique gene encoding the 32 kd thylakoid membrane protein in spinach chloroplast DNA, based on hybridization with the cloned spinach probe. Two of the identified Anabaena DNA fragments were isolated from a recombinant lambda library and the complete nucleotide sequences of the coding regions were determined. Both fragments contain open reading frames coding for proteins of MW 39 950. The predicted amino acid sequences are 94% identical; 87% of the positions are identical to those of the corresponding spinach protein. The nucleotide sequences of the 5′ and 3′ flanking regions of the two Anabaena genes differ considerably. Based on S1 nuclease protection, primer extension, and Northern hybridization experiments it is concluded that only one of the two cloned genes is transcribed in Anabaena cells growing on complete medium (containing ammonia). Under these conditions it appears that none of the other related sequences, not yet cloned, is transcribed. Transcription of only one member of the multigene family provides a possible explanation for the ability to isolate mutants resistant to the herbicide DCMU, whose target is believed to be the 32 kd protein.
Nutritional effects on blood pressure.

Purpose of review There has not been a thorough recent evaluation of the nutritional effects on blood pressure. Apart from outstanding clinical trials like Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, there have been controversial papers on a number of factors influencing blood pressure. This paper is a systematic review of the current literature as it relates to hypertension. Recent findings Results from many meta-analyses and well controlled clinical trials on the effects of a variety of nutritional factors are presented in this review. Evidence suggests that dietary sodium intake needs reduction. There is a seemingly inverse relationship between protein intake and blood pressure, but data are inconclusive. High monounsaturated fat and fish oil appear to be beneficial. Several studies on dietary fiber indicate that the strongest evidence for blood pressure lowering effects is in hypertensive as opposed to normotensive participants. Vegetarians seem to have lower levels of hypertension and cardiovascular disease risk. Low carbohydrate diets show short-term beneficial effects but are not sustained. High levels of potassium, magnesium, calcium and soy seem to have some benefit, but results remain inconclusive. Weight reduction positively impacts blood pressure. Summary More compelling research defining specific factors is needed to inform the public as to steps needed to reduce blood pressure and improve cardiovascular risk.
The zinc transporter Zip14 influences c-Met phosphorylation and hepatocyte proliferation during liver regeneration in mice.

Background & Aims Zinc homeostasis in cells is maintained through tight regulation of zinc influx, efflux, and distribution to intracellular organelles by zinc transporters. The Zrt-Irt-like protein (ZIP) transporters facilitate zinc influx to the cytosol. Expression of the ZIP family member Zip14 can be induced by inflammatory cytokines, which also initiate liver regeneration. Hepatocyte proliferation is required for liver regeneration. Zinc regulates cell proliferation, tissue growth, and many mitogenic signaling pathways; we investigated its role in hepatocytes. Methods Wild-type and Zip14 –/– mice that underwent partial hepatectomy (70% of liver removed) were used as models of liver regeneration. We also analyzed AML12 hepatocytes that overexpressed Zip14. Proliferation was assessed with proliferating cell nuclear antigen, CD1, and Ki67 markers and along with assays of zinc content was related to protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) and extracellular signal–regulated kinase 1/2 signaling. Results Zip14 was up-regulated and hepatic zinc content increased during liver regeneration. Increased hepatic zinc inhibited activity of the phosphatase PTP1B and increased phosphorylation of c-Met, which promoted hepatocyte proliferation. AML12 cells that overexpressed Zip14 increased in zinc content and proliferation; PTP1B was inhibited and phosphorylation of c-Met increased. The increases in hepatic levels of zinc and hepatocyte proliferation that occurred following partial hepatectomy were not observed in Zip14 −/− mice. Conclusions The transporter Zip14 mediates hepatic uptake of zinc during liver regeneration and for hepatocyte proliferation. These findings indicate that zinc transporter activity regulates liver tissue growth by sequestering zinc. Reagents that regulate ZIP14 activity might be developed as therapeutics to promote liver regeneration in patients with chronic liver disease.
High-speed optical humidity sensors based on chiral sculptured thin films

A high-speed humidity sensor based on a nanostructured chiral sculptured thin film (CSTF) was fabricated and tested. The sensing principle is based on the shift of the central wavelength of the circular Bragg regime of the CSTF caused by adsorption and desorption of water vapor in the void regions of the CSTF. Spectral changes due to varying relative-humidity (RH) levels in the ambient environment were measured by a spectrometer. The CSTF sensor exhibited excellent reversibility and reproducibility from 40% to 100% RH. Moreover, the adsorption time of the sensor was measured to be as low as ∼140 ms, making it promising for many high-speed humidity-sensing applications.
Characterization of pyroclastic fall and flow deposits from the 1815 eruption of Tambora volcano, indonesia using ground-penetrating radar

Abstract Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) is used to image and characterize fall and pyroclastic flow deposits from the 1815 eruption of Tambora volcano in Indonesia. Analysis of GPR common-mid-point (CMP) data indicate that the velocity of radar in the sub-surface is 0.1 m/ns, and this is used to establish a preliminary traveltime to-depth conversion for common-offset reflection profiles. Common-offset radar profiles were collected along the edge of an erosional gully that exposed approximately 1–2 m of volcanic stratigraphy. Additional trenching at select locations in the gully exposed the contact between the pre-1815 eruption surface and overlying pyroclastic deposit from the 1815 eruption. The deepest continuous, prominent reflection is shown to correspond to the interface between pre-eruption clay-rich soil and pyroclastics that reach a maximum thickness of 4 m along our profiles. This soil surface is distinctly terraced and is interpreted as the ground surface augmented for agriculture and buildings by people from the kingdom of Tambora. The correlation of volcanic stratigraphy and radar data at this location indicates that reflections are produced by the soil-pyroclastic deposit interface and the interface between pyroclastic flows (including pyroclastic surge) and the pumice-rich fall deposits. In the thickest deposits an additional reflection marks the interface between two pyroclastic flow units.
Keratoplasty and Intraocular Lenses: Current Status

Present methods of treating combined corneal disease and cataracts in elderly. patients are unsatisfactory, and multiple operative procedures may be required. From 1975 through 1978, 60 attempts were made to restore relatively normal optics and achieve rapid visual recovery with a single operative procedure consisting of keratoplasty, cataract extraction, and intraocular lens insertion in various combinations. As of this writing, there have been few complications, and 82% of the grafts are clear.
αVβ6 integrin promotes corneal wound healing.

Integrins are a family of receptors that mediate cell-cell and cell-matrix adhesion,1–3 as well as contributing to a wide variety of cellular responses, including survival, proliferation, and migration.3 These heterodimeric transmembrane glycoproteins have both alpha (α) and beta (β) subunits. The combination of these 2 subunits results in at least 22 different cell surface receptors with wide ligand binding specificities. Integrin αvβ6 is expressed at very low levels in epithelial cells of healthy adult mammals; however, its expression is considerably upregulated in response to injury or inflammation.4,5 Absence of αvβ6 is linked to initiation and progression of periodontal disease,6 regulation of lung and skin inflammation,7 delay in epidermal wound healing,8 and suppression of pulmonary fibrosis.9 In the cornea, expression of αvβ6 is restricted to the epithelium. Under pathologic conditions, such as in patients with bullous keratopathy,10 and during wound healing, αvβ6 is upregulated, suggesting a role in corneal epithelial wound repair11 and keratinocyte migration.12 αvβ6 is a receptor for many of the components of the basement membrane zone (BMZ) including fibronectin, vitronectin, tenascin, and E-cadherins.13,14 It is also the receptor for the Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) attachment site of both latency-associated peptide (LAP)-TGF-β1 and LAP-TGF-β3.9,15,16 Attachment of αvβ6 to latent TGF-β has been shown in several investigations to be involved in the activation of TGF-β (for review see references 17–20). Indeed, αvβ6-null mice recapitulate much of the phenotype of TGF-β1-null mice.21 Because αvβ6 is known to be expressed in remodeling rat basal corneal epithelium and human bullous keratopathy,10,11 and is an activator of latent TGF-β,9,15,16 we hypothesized that αvβ6 plays an important role in corneal repair when the BMZ is compromised by surgery. We addressed this hypothesis by using adult β6 integrin-deficient mice (β6−/−) and comparing them with wild type (WT) mice.
Development of compartmentalized innervation of the rat gluteus maximus muscle

The innervation territories of the nerves to the gluteus maximus muscle were investigated in neonatal rats by using evoked electromyographic mapping techniques. Similar methods were employed to determine the terminal fields of individual motoneurons. Both at birth and after the period of neuromuscular synapse elimination, rat gluteus maximus is partitioned by its two muscle nerves. Each of these partitions is further divided into neuromuscular compartments by the primary branches of the muscle nerves. The terminal fields of individual motoneurons are about as well localized in early neonates as in 26 day-old animals. Intracellular records from gluteal muscle cells reveal that some myotubes in a narrow region near the center of the muscle receive inputs from both of the muscle nerves during the period of polyneuronal innervation. Such cross-compartmental innervation could be demonstrated only until the eighth postnatal day, even though polyneuronally innervated muscle cells were found as late as postnatal day 18. Analysis of the trajectories of individual axons filled with horseradish peroxidase indicates that they branch into only one primary branch of the nerves to gluteus maximus, both in newborn and 14 day-old pups. The innervation of gluteus maximus at birth is essentially restricted to neuromuscular compartments. Synapse elimination probably plays a minor role in establishing neuromuscular compartments.
On the Mechanism of ATP Hydrolysis in F1-ATPase

Most of the cellular ATP in living organisms is synthesized by the enzyme F1Fo-ATP synthase. The water soluble F1 part of the enzyme can also work in reverse and utilize the chemical energy released during ATP hydrolysis to generate mechanical motion. Despite the availability of a large amount of biochemical data and several x-ray crystallographic structures of F1, there still remains a considerable lack of understanding as to how this protein efficiently converts the chemical energy released during the reaction ATP + H2O → ADP + Pi into mechanical motion of the stalk. We report here an ab initio QM/MM study of ATP hydrolysis in the βTP catalytic site of F1. Our simulations provide an atomic level description of the reaction path, its energetics, and the interaction of the nucleotide with the protein environment during catalysis. The simulations suggest that the reaction path with the lowest potential energy barrier proceeds via nucleophilic attack on the γ-phosphate involving two water molecules. Furthermore, the ATP hydrolysis reaction in βTP is found to be endothermic, demonstrating that the catalytic site is able to support the synthesis of ATP and does not promote ATP hydrolysis in the particular conformation studied.
On invariant procedures in approximate SCF MO theories

The CNDO and subsequent methods by Pople are analyzed with regard to a possible refinement. It is emphasized that the invariance requirements for atomic integrals under local rotations and local hybridization are not essential for the theory, but that the SCF equations have to be invariant under unitary transformations of the atomic basis set. The removal of this restriction yields the possibility of introducing different scale factors for the various 2s- and 2p-orbitals at the same center. For aromatic systems it is predicted that little improvement will result for ground state properties which are average values of the σ- and π-part, e.g. total dipole moments. The neccessity of the application of the more recent scale factors for calculations on spectra is pointed out.
Symptomatic Rathke's cleft cyst: Case report

A case of a symptomatic Rathke's cleft cyst in a 10-year-old boy is described. The importance of the intraoperative differentiation between this rare tumor and a craniopharyngioma is discussed.
On the Cul-de-Sac vs. Checker-Board Street Network: Search for Sustainable Urban Form

The study revisited the largely accepted idea to deal with sprawl by replacing cul-de-sac/curve-linear street with the traditional checkerboard system in community design. Recent discussions suggest that a neighborhood with cul- de-sac street pattern can promote accessibility and street connectivity, if it is designed integrated with open space and pedestrian paths, while creating safe and quiet residential environments. A good example is the discarded old wisdom, the Radburn. To date, the past researchers did not acknowledge the potential of the cul-de-sac neighborhoods in achieving the benefits New Urbansits strive to accomplish. This study tried to fill this gap by comparing a conventional suburban neighborhood, a neighborhood with creative cul-de-sac street pattern, and the grid street neighborhood.
Differences in absolute risk of cardiovascular events using risk-refinement tests: a systematic analysis of four cardiovascular risk equations.

Abstract Background Current cardiovascular risk assessment guidelines incorporate judicious use of C-reactive protein (CRP), carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT), and coronary artery calcium (CAC) in selected populations and describe threshold levels for higher and lower cardiovascular risk for each of the three risk refinement tests. However, the effect of these suggested thresholds of relative risk on absolute global risk remains uncertain. Methods Systematic permutation of risk factors provided 10-year risk estimates using the Framingham risk score, equations derived from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) and the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study, and the Reynolds risk score. Low-, high-, and very-high-risk values of CAC, CIMT, and hsCRP were defined as: 0, 100, 400 Agatston units; 25th percentile without plaque, 75th percentile without plaque, 75th percentile with plaque; and 1.0, 3.0, 7.0 mg/L. Results Incorporation of low-, high-, and very-high-risk CAC values using the MESA risk score resulted in greater changes in absolute risk from the Framingham risk score than the addition of either CIMT or hsCRP values using the ARIC or Reynolds risk scores. Conclusions Although certain values of CAC, CIMT, and hsCRP have been similarly designated as low, high, or very-high risk, incorporation of these thresholds into validated risk equations yielded substantially different levels of absolute cardiovascular risk. Use of available risk equations may be advisable to calculate absolute risk rather than relying on risk-marker thresholds derived from relative risk estimates.
Modification of optimal complete active space choices for the multiconfigurational spin-tensor electron propagator method for ionization potentials

The multiconfigurational spin tensor electron propagator (MCSTEP) method was developed as an implementation of electron propagator/single particle Green's function methods. MCSTEP was specifically designed for open-shell and highly correlated (nondynamically correlated) initial states. Ionization or electron attachment is always from a state of pure spin symmetry to a state of pure spin symmetry even if the initial state is open shell. MCSTEP can be used as well for molecules with initial states that can be accurately described by a single determinant-based theory. The initial state that is used in MCSTEP is typically a small complete active space (CAS) multiconfigurational self-consistent field (MCSCF) state. We previously examined different small CAS choices for MCSTEP initial states and have developed a generally workable scheme. This article further examines some different ways to choose the CAS for MCSTEP. With several logical CAS choices, we have calculated the low-lying vertical MCSTEP ionization potentials (IPs) of C2, N2, linear H2O, O2, CH2, and NH2, comparing them with large multireference configuration interaction (MRCI) calculations. We conclude that generally a small modification and extension of our previous schemes for choosing the MCSTEP CAS gives IPs that most effectively mimics the results of large scale MRCI IPs in general. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2007
Dynamic programming algorithms for picture comparison

Two-dimensional arrays can be compared by a generalization of dynamic programming algorithms for string comparison. Earlier algorithms have computational complexity O(N^6) for comparison of two N x N arrays. The computational complexity is reduced to O(N^4) in general and O(N^2) algorithms are pointed out for the range limited case. An example is given to illustrate the lack of knowledge of mathematical properties of these algorithms. The problem of finding an algorithm to compute the minimum number of insertions, deletions, and substitutions to transform one array into another remains open.
Upstream-Propagating Wave Modes in Moist and Dry Flow over Topography

AbstractPrevious studies have observed upstream-propagating modes in two-dimensional numerical simulations of idealized flow over topography with moist, nearly neutral conditions in the troposphere, topped by a stable stratosphere. The generation and propagation mechanisms for these modes were attributed to localized and dramatic changes in stability induced by the desaturation of the flow impinging on the mountain. In the present paper it is shown that these modes are transient upstream-propagating gravity waves, which are a fundamental feature of both moist and dry flow over topography of a two-layer troposphere–stratosphere atmospheric profile impulsively started from rest. The mode selection and propagation speeds of these transient waves are highly dependent on the tropospheric stability, as well as the wind speed and tropopause depth. In the moist case these modes appear to propagate according to an effective static stability that is intermediate to the normal dry stability and the lower moist stabi...
Laser-doppler flowmetry compared to intravital microscopy for assessment of blood flow in the nasal mucosa of the rabbit

Laser-Doppler flowmeter (LDF) studies of the rabbit nasal mucosal microcirculation were compared with intravital videomicroscopy and with flow measured in single blood vessels in order to evaluate the applicability of the LDF technique. Access to the nasal mucosa for a microscope objective was gained surgically through the maxilla. Transillumination for microscopy was achieved through a prism inserted on the contralateral side of the septal cartilage. Blood flow changes were induced by the inhalation of N2, CO2 and O2 and by topically applying the vasoconstricting alpha-adrenoceptor agonist oxymetazoline. The effects were registered by LDF and direct visual observation. Flow in veins and capillaries was calculated using on-line cross-correlation, and off-line a computerized video-analysis system. LDF did not correlate to flow in single veins or capillaries but agreed well with the visual impression. LDF is considered a valuable method for the assessment of over-all blood flow changes in the nasal mucosa.
The Form and Function of a Biblical Blood Ritual

AbstractThere is a consensus in current research that Levitical law never requires blood to be tossed upon the upper surface of the altar. This conception has reinforced—and has been reinforced by—an understanding that yhwh is never to be offered blood. However, it appears that according to several priestly texts, the blood of many sacrifices, including wellbeing, whole-burnt and reparation offerings, is to be tossed upon the upper surface of the altar.
Alteration of evoked potentials in caudate nucleus of freely moving rats by L-dopa, reserpine, and pentobarbital.

Abstract Average acoustic responses were recorded with permanent semimicroelectrodes from the caudate nucleus in freely behaving rats. Administration of pentobarbital 7 mg/kg enhanced the amplitude of the responses and shortened the neuronal recovery function. Higher doses of pentobarbital progressively diminished the amplitude of the responses. l -dopa (100 mg/kg, ip, as an aqueous suspension) increased the amplitude of the average acoustic evoked responses and shortened the neuronal recovery function when paired acoustic stimuli were delivered at varied interstimulus intervals. Reserpine administration (1 mg/kg, ip) 1 hr after l -dopa injection reversed these phenomena, producing a decrease of the responses and prolongation of the neuronal recovery function. When administered as the first treatment, reserpine 1 mg/kg, ip, reduced the amplitude of the responses, but shortened the neuronal recovery function. l -dopa injection after reserpine treatment reversed the reserpine effect, i.e., increased the amplitude of the responses and shortened further the neuronal recovery function. It is concluded that l -dopa intensifies and reserpine diminishes neuronal evoked responses within caudate nucleus, presumably altering the activity of neurotransmitters.
Localization of CYP2F1 by multipoint linkage analysis and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis.

Abstract CYP2F1 , which encodes a P450 enzyme capable of metabolizing several mono-oxygenase substrates with the highest activity toward ethoxycoumarin, has been mapped to human chromosome 19 by somatic cell hybrid studies. The CYP2A and CYP2B subfamilies are known to lie within 350 kb of each other on chromosome 19. To determine the locations of CYP2F1 with respect to CYP2A and CYP2B , multipoint linkage analysis and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis were performed. No recombinants were found between CYP2F1 and CYP2B in more than 50 meioses, and one recombinant was found between CYP2F1 and CYP2A (50 meioses). Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis showed the three loci to lie within a 240-kb region. Multipoint analysis of the haplotyped CYP cluster with four other chromosome 19 loci yielded the order D19S7-D19S9-APOC2-D19S8-CYP , although four other orders could not be excluded. The odds were 4.4 × 10 3 against the order proposed by the HGM10 consortium, D19S7-D19S9-CYP-D19S8-APOC2 .
SCROTAL INVOLVEMENT WITH IDIOPATHIC RETROPERITONEAL FIBROSIS

Idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis or Ormond's disease is an uncommon inflammatory condition that occasionally affects other body sites. As multifocal fibrosis, it is assumed to be a general process in at least some cases. We report a typical case of mainly right retroperitoneal fibrosis associated with unusual massive ipsilateral scrotal wall involvement with identical histological findings.
Effect of the imaginary part of the pion self-energy on dilepton production in dense nuclear matter

Abstract The dilepton spectrum from dense and hot nuclear matter, formed in the initial stage of high-energy heavy-ion collisions, is calculated from the consideration of pion-pion annihilations. The pion self-energy in nuclear matter is determined by the deltahole model. Its imaginary part is also treated selfconsistently. As in previous studies, we find that the dilepton spectrum at invariant masses around twice the pion mass is substantially enhanced when compared with the case in which the medium effect is neglected. The inclusion of the imaginary part of the pion self-energy leads to nonsingular dilepton yield.
Magnetotransport in Zener tunneling regime in a high-mobility two-dimensional hole gas

In a high-mobility two-dimensional hole gas (2DHG) in C-doped (001) $\text{GaAs}/{\text{Al}}_{0.4}{\text{Ga}}_{0.6}\text{As}$ quantum wells, we observe sharp features in the differential magnetoresistance, which we interpret as the Zener-tunneling peak and valley associated with the commensuration transition of Landau orbits. Comparison of data with that in $\text{GaAs}/{\text{Al}}_{0.3}{\text{Ga}}_{0.7}\text{As}$ 2D electron gas suggests that the amplitude of Zener oscillations in a 2DHG is strongly damped. The data indicate the significant role of band structures in nonlinear transport in 2D electronic systems.
Vitamin D deficiency, adiposity, and cardiometabolic risk in urban schoolchildren.

Objective To determine the relationship between serum vitamin D levels and cardiometabolic risk factors independent of adiposity in urban schoolchildren. Study design We assessed the relationships among serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], adiposity measured by body mass index (BMI) z -score (BMIz), and 6 cardiometabolic risk factors (total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, interleukin-6, and C-reactive protein [CRP]) in a cross-sectional sample of 263 racially and ethnically diverse schoolchildren from the Boston area during late winter. Multivariate regression analyses adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics and BMIz examined associations of 25(OH)D and cardiometabolic risk factors. Results Overall, 74.6% of the children were vitamin D deficient [25(OH)D P P Conclusions Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent during the late winter months in urban schoolchildren living in the northeastern United States. This widespread deficiency may contribute to the lack of associations between 25(OH)D and both BMIz and cardiometabolic risk factors. The association between 25(OH)D and CRP warrants further study.
Rare gas abundances in MORB

Abstract Data are presented for He, Ar and Xe in a number of MORB glasses and crystalline rocks. The rare gases in the latter group are characterized by atmospheric Ar and Xe, coupled with loss of trapped mantle He, Ar and Xe. The glass data also show clear signs of an atmospheric-like component for Ar and Xe. A reasonably constant world-wide average trapped mantle gas value of 40 Ar/ 36 Ar ~15000 ±3000 is suggested. Anomalies are seen in the 129 Xe/ 132 Xe ratio, but at least part of this might be due to mass fractionation rather than to 129 I decay. Correlating the data with those from oceanic island basalts in Ar-Xe space indicates that the latter samples are probably also greatly influenced by an atmospheric component rather than (or in addition to) trapping gases from an undepleted mantle source.
First Comprehensive Survey of NSF Applicants Focuses on Their Concerns About Proposal Review

Earlier this year the National Science Foundation (NSF) published my report1 of a survey of all principal investigators who received decisions about their research proposals from NSF during 1985. This article describes the origins and aims of the survey, how it was conducted, and some of the implications of our findings for the Foundation's proposal review and decisionmaking process-and for better communication among proposers, reviewers, and Foundation staff.