cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Reproducibility of CMR right ventricle volumetric measurements is independent of reader experience under a standardized protocol

The right ventricle’s complex geometry makes it challenging to measure its size and function. Though volumetric CMR is generally considered the gold standard, standardized reading protocols are necessary. We sought to investigate whether a specific reading protocol can supersede cardiology training in right ventricular (RV) measurements. We aimed to evaluate the reproducibility of RV measurements done by both an experienced and a novice CMR reader. Methods During a training period an experienced (Level III trained) CMR reader and a CMR novice (high school student) jointly interpreted 50 cine SSFP studies obtained in the left ventricular short-axis orientation as contiguous stack encompassing both ventricles in their entirety. The standardized endocardial tracing protocol was delimited by the pulmonary valve and the tricuspid valve planes; interpretation was augmented using cinereview and cross-referencing with orthogonal cine images. RV stroke volume (RVSV) and ejection fraction (RVEF) were calculated from end diastolic volume (RVEDV) and end systolic volume (RVESV). After the training period, we randomly selected 24 anonymized datasets from a representative sample (50% men; median age 63 years[range 48-78]), and the two readers independently read the studies twice, in a random order and on different days. Reproducibility was evaluated with coefficients of variation (CV) and concordance correlation coefficients (Rho). Results Mean ± SD measurements and CV did not differ between the experienced and the novice reader, respectively, for RVEDV (124.4 ± 30.1 vs 125.0 ± 30.1 mL; CV: 0.05 vs 0.04; P = NS), RVESV (45.6 ± 14.4 45.8 ± 13.4 mL; CV: 0.11 vs 0.09; P = NS), RVSV (78.9 ± 18.8 vs 79.2 ± 18.7 mL; CV: 0.05 vs 0.03; P = NS), RVEF (63.6 ± 5.4 vs 63.4 ± 5%; CV: 0.04 vs 0.04: P = NS). The concordance correlation coefficients and 95% limits of agreement are shown in the Table 1.
Finding potential DNA-binding compounds by using molecular shape

For the first time a general shape-search docking algorithm (DOCK) has been applied to the minor and major grooves of A-, B- and Z-type DNA dodecamers and to an intercalation site in a B-DNA-type hexamer. Both experimentally and theoretically derived geometries for the various DNA fragments were used. The DOCK searches were carried out on a subset of the Cambridge Crystallographic Database, consisting of almost 10 000 molecules. One of the molecules that scored best in terms of the DOCK algorithm was CC-1065, a potent antitumor agent known to (covalently) bind the AT-rich parts of the minor groove of B-DNA. Several known DNA-binding agents also scored highly. Molecules with shapes complementary to A-, B- and Z-type DNA were indicated by DOCK. In addition, compounds were extracted from the database that might be selective for the GC-rich regions of the minor groove of B-DNA. Many of the compounds in the present study may serve as a starting point for further molecular design of novel DNA-binding ligands.
Associative hardware and software techniques for integrity control

This paper presents the integrity control mechanism of the associative processing system, CASSM. The mechanism takes advantage of the associative techniques, such as content and context addressing, tagging and marking data, parallel processing, automatic triggering of integrity control procedures, etc., for integrity control and as a result offers three significant advantages: (1) The problem of staging data in a main memory for integrity checking can be eliminated because database storage operations are verified at the place where the data are stored. (2) The backout or merging procedures are relatively easy and inexpensive in the associative system because modified copies can be substituted for the originals or may be discarded by merely changing their associated tags. (3) The database management system software is simplified because database integrity functions are handled by the associative processing system to which a mainframe computer is a front-end computer.
Truncation error terms in the kinetic energy calculation in the HELP algorithm and their consequences

Abstract When the HELP computer code is applied to conical-shaped charge warhead problems, the computed internal energy predicts a thermal state completely different than that indicated by experiments. The cause of this phenomenon is the numerical interchange of the kinetic energy to internal energy which is generated by terms of the order of the truncation error in the kinetic energy calculation. A correction is given and qualitative thermal agreement is achieved for the first time between a HELP calculation and experimental evidence. The effects of the original kinetic energy calculation on the accuracy of the internal energy is problem dependent and criteria for such a determination are given in terms of the truncation error terms for the internal energy. A mesh refinement study further illustrates the consequences of the original and modified kinetic energy calculations. The same phenomenon can occur in other computer codes with a Particle-In-Cell based algorithm and the given correction is applicable.
The synthesis of α- and β-(1 → 2)- and -(1 → 3)-linked glucopyranose disaccharides and their protein conjugates

Abstract 2,3,4-Tri- O -benzyl-6- O -( N -phenylcarbamoyl)-1- O -tosyl- d -glucopyranose and 3,4,6-tri- O -benzyl-2- O - p -nitrobenzoyl-1- O -tosyl- d -glucopyranose were allowed to react with partially blocked 2-[4-( p -toluenesulfonamido)phenyl]ethyl α- and β- d -glucopyranosides. Disaccharides having the structure α- d -Glc p -(1 → 2)-α- d -Glc p , α- d -Glc p -(1 → 3)-α- d -Glc p , β- d -Glc p -(1 → 2)-β- d -Glc p , and β- d -Glc p -(1 → 3)-α- d -Glc p were synthesized. The oligosaccharides were debenzylated with sodium in liquid ammonia to give disaccharides having a free primary aromatic amino group, which were converted into isothiocyanate derivatives and then coupled to various proteins to give the corresponding conjugates.
Microwave Metallurgy: Synthesis of Intermetallic Compounds via Microwave Irradiation

Solid-state microwave synthesis has been explored through the preparation of a variety of intermetallic compounds. This method has proven to be a simple and rapid alternative for the synthesis of these materials. The graphic shows an image of a typical reaction.
Usefulness of intermittent monitoring of mixed venous oxygen saturation after stage I palliation for hypoplastic left heart syndrome

Most deaths after stage I palliation for hypoplastic left heart syndrome have occurred within the first 24 hours after surgery. Efforts to improve 1-day survival should therefore have significant impact on improving overall survival. Early death has most often been attributed to low cardiac output and abnormalities of pulmonary to systemic flow ratio (Qp/Qs). Thirteen infants underwent stage I palliation and had a catheter inserted in the high superior vena cava (SVC) for intermittent measurement of SVC oxygen saturation. Calculation of Qp/Qs was achieved using SVC saturation as a mixed venous oxygen saturation, and estimating pulmonary venous oxygen saturation. Eleven patients survived, and 2 patients died within the first 24 hours. Abnormalities in Qp/Qs were noted in 12 of 13 patients after operation. In 10 of these 12 patients, there was a high Qp/Qs, which has been associated with poor outcome. High Qp/Qs was noted even in patients with acceptable arterial oxygen saturations (< 85%). SVC saturation increased in all survivors during the first 24 hours, and was associated with a decrease in Qp/Qs. Measurement of SVC oxygen saturation appears to be a valuable adjuvant in the postoperative management of infants after stage I palliation of hypoplastic left heart syndrome. Major abnormalities in Qp/Qs can be detected even with acceptable arterial saturations. With this information, early ventilator/pharmaceutical adjustments can be made which may improve stage I survival.
Attempted replication of, and selective breeding for, instrumental conditioning of Drosophila melanogaster

Abstract Our attempt to replicate fails to confirm previously reported instrumental conditioning of D. melanogaster. Furthermore, ten generations of bidirectional selective breeding, eight generations by one criterion then two by another, have yielded no response to selection for apparent individual differences in performance on the conditioning test.
Microwaves in Your Future

The microwave scene is changing rapidly. The main conclusions may be summarized as follows: 1. Wireless communications rivals Defense applications as the main driver of microwave technology, 2. The intemationalization of microwave technology continues, 3. Technology-wise the distinctions between microwaves and other RF are beginning to blur, 4. U.S. factory sales of microwave components have not shared in the growth of electronics products sales generally (but this may not be so when microwave and RF are taken together), 5. To be successful, the microwave engineer must complement his specialized knowledge wit a broader understanding of related areas of technology, 6. There will be plenty of work to do for microwave engineers in the foreseeable future.
Employing plasma as catalyst in hydrogen production

Abstract A novel approach in hydrogen production via reforming of hydrocarbons that will use catalytic properties of non-equilibrium plasma gas discharge is presented. CH4/CO2 mixtures are heated to a temperature of 900°C, so that mixture will have approximately 80% of the energy required for thermal reforming. Preheated mixtures are then processed in a Pulsed Corona Discharge type plasma source and the catalytic effect of a non-equilibrium plasma is observed for promotion of hydrogen generation.
On the plurality of gods

Ordinal polytheism is motivated by the cosmological and design arguments. It is also motivated by Leibnizian-Lewisian modal realism. Just as there are many universes, so there are many gods. Gods are necessary concrete grounds of universes. The god-universe relation is one-to-one. Ordinal polytheism argues for a hierarchy of ranks of ever more perfect gods, one rank for every ordinal number. Since there are no maximally perfect gods, ordinal polytheism avoids many of the familiar problems of monotheism. It links theology with counterpart theory, mathematics and computer science. And it entails that the system of universes has an attractive axiological structure.
Effects of Shared Secondary Controls and Operational Modes on Performance and Perceived Workload During a Simulated Driving Task

During a simulated driving task, subjects were prompted to actuate specific shared (mode-based) secondary controls, which required subjects to ensure that the proper mode was active before actuating the control. The independent variables were number of controls, number of operational modes, and number of functions assigned to a control. The dependent variables included performance time, speed and lane deviations, error measures, and subjective ratings. Subjects perceived higher workloads and took longer to complete the secondary task as the number of controls and number of functions increased. The number of operational modes had no effect on secondary control performance while subjective ratings indicated little or no significant differences between multiple and single mode systems. Comparing systems with identical number of functions, a system that reduces the number of controls by assigning a set of functions (in which each function belongs to a different mode) to each control may be preferable to a sys...
Watershed-Scale Impacts of Forest Buffers on Water Quality and Runoff in Urbanizing Environment

Forestry practices that are applied to buffer regions can be used as a strategy to improve water quality and flow regime in urbanizing watersheds. This study evaluates watershed-wide impacts of buffering urban forestry practices. Watershed simulation modeling is used to study the effectiveness of best management practices (BMPs) scenarios representing riparian and street buffers on water quality, quantity, and open space in rural, suburban, and urbanized environments. Results indicate that the watershed health can be improved through location-specific application of urban forestry practices. The proportion of urban forest cover reduced sediment and nutrient loading, decreased stormwater runoff, and increased groundwater recharge in urbanizing watersheds. Reduction in variability of watershed processes indicate that forest BMPs make the watershed more adaptive to handling adverse conditions, such as large storms, nonpoint source pollution, flooding, and high winds. Watersheds that are starting to get urbanized responded well to the BMP scenarios compared to more urbanized subbasins. General strategies include a focus on increasing pervious cover of the watershed with a higher priority in riparian and street buffers. Specific tree species and practical issues in forest buffering are also discussed. Policies like financial incentives and encouraging voluntary participation can be used to improve urban watersheds.
Notch3 in Human Breast Cancer Cell Lines Regulates Osteoblast-Cancer Cell Interactions and Osteolytic Bone Metastasis

Breast cancer preferentially metastasizes to bone. We therefore addressed the role of Notch signaling in osteoblast-cancer cell interactions and in bone metastasis. Human bone marrow osteoblasts selectively enhanced the expression of Notch3 and its ligand Jagged1 in human breast cancer cell lines. Osteoblasts also stimulated cancer cell colony formation in soft agar, which was reduced by a chemical inhibitor of Notch signaling and anti-transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) antibody. TGFβ1, a major prometastatic product of osteoblasts, also stimulated cancer cell Notch3 expression. Notch3 knockdown in the cancer cells by stable short hairpin RNA interference decreased the osteoblast- and TGFβ1-stimulated colony formation as well as TGFβ1-mediated Smad3/Smad2 phosphorylation; Jagged1 level was coordinately reduced. In addition, expression of snail, a regulator of epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and the mesenchymal markers fibronectin and vimentin was attenuated by reducing Notch3 levels. To study the role of Notch3 signaling in bone metastasis, cancer cells were inoculated into athymic mice, either into femoral bone marrow cavities or into the systemic circulation via the left ventricle. Compared with robust osteolysis in mice receiving control cells, osteolytic lesions were significantly reduced following inoculation of cells with constitutively reduced Notch3 expression. Taken together, our results suggest that enhanced Notch3 expression in breast cancer cells, triggered by osteoblasts and their secretion of TGFβ1 in the bone marrow niche, may stand as a novel mechanism for promoting bone metastasis.
Nanoscale co-precipitation and mechanical properties of a high-strength low-carbon steel

Abstract Nanoscale co-precipitation in a novel high-strength low-carbon steel is studied in detail after isothermal aging. Atom-probe tomography is utilized to quantify the co-precipitation of co-located Cu precipitates and M 2 C (M is any combination of Cr, Mo, Fe, or Ti) carbide strengthening precipitates. Coarsening of Cu precipitates is offset by the nucleation and growth of M 2 C carbide precipitate, resulting in the maintenance of a yield strength of 1047 ± 7 MPa (152 ± 1 ksi) for as long as 320 h of aging time at 450 °C. Impact energies of 153 J (113 ± 6 ft-lb) and 144 J (106 ± 2 ft-lb) are measured at −30 °C and −60 °C, respectively. The co-location of Cu and M 2 C carbide precipitates results in non-stationary-state coarsening of the Cu precipitates. Synchrotron-source X-ray diffraction studies reveal that the measured 33% increase in impact toughness after aging for 80 h at 450 °C is due to dissolution of cementite, Fe 3 C, which is the source of carbon for the nucleation and growth of M 2 C carbide precipitates. Less than 1 vol.% austenite is observed for aging treatments at temperatures less than 600 °C, suggesting that transformation-induced plasticity does not play a significant role in the toughness of specimens aged at temperatures less than 600 °C. Aging treatments at temperatures greater than 600 °C produce more austenite, in the range 2–7%, but at the expense of yield strength.
Status of the SLC

The goals of the SLAC Linear Collider, SLC, are to develop the techniques of linear colliders and to do physics at and slightly above the energy necessary to produce the Z/sup 0/. A short review is given of the physics goals of the SLC, followed by the status of the SLC and its detectors. Plans for accelerating polarized electrons at SLC are also discussed. 6 figs. (LEW)
Effects of azatryptophan on bacterial enzymes and bacteriophage.

The influence of a number of amino acid analogs on the ability of Escherichia coli to form proteins was investigated. The analog of tryptophan, 7-azatryptophan, is incorporated into proteins and permits synthesis of proteins and nucleic acids, but the majority of enzymes, and also bacteriophages T1 and T2, did not appear in active forms. Two enzymes, asparate carbamyl transferase and D-serine deaminase, were formed in about half the maximal amounts in the presence of azatryptophan, but not when the tryptophan supply was limited by various other means. Kinetics of inhibition showed that under the experimental conditions 1 and 1.8 minutes were required to establish and reverse the inhibition of β-galactosidase formation, respectively. Phage formation was much more strongly inhibited by the analog than was bacterial growth, thereby providing a kind of chemotherapy. Inhibition of phage development was observed in both the early and late periods after infection. When added a few minutes after the time of infection, azatryptophan inhibited the formation of phage DNA much more strongly than the development of resistance to ultraviolet light; this suggests that the former is not necessary for the latter phenomenon. Protein made in the presence of azatryptophan and isolated in inactive, centrifugable particles had none of the properties of phage protein, but was associated with DNA of the phage type. The analog acts so as to cause major imperfections in the phage protein rather than by simply being incorporated in place of tryptophan.
Constitutively active Stat5b in CD4+ T cells inhibits graft-versus-host disease lethality associated with increased regulatory T-cell potency and decreased T effector cell responses

Overexpression of a constitutively active form of Stat5b (Stat5b-CA) increases regulatory T cells (Tregs). We show that Stat5b-CA transgenic (TG) CD4+ T cells had a markedly reduced graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) capacity versus wild-type (WT) T cells. Stat5b-CA TG versus WT CD4+ T cells had a higher proportion of Tregs, which were superior in suppressing alloresponses mediated by CD4+CD25− effector T cells (Teffs). By day 5 after transplantation, Stat5b-CA TG Tregs had expanded approximately 3-fold more than WT Tregs. Purified Stat5b-CA TG Tregs added to WT CD4+CD25− Teffs were superior on a per-cell basis for inhibiting GVHD versus WT Tregs. Surprisingly, rigorously Treg-depleted Stat5b-CA TG versus WT CD4+CD25− Teffs caused less GVHD lethality associated with diminished Teff proinflammatory and increased Th2 anti-inflammatory cytokine responses. Reduced GVHD by Stat5b-CA TG versus WT Teffs could not be explained by conversion into Tregs in day 10 posttransplantation spleen or small intestine. In addition, Stat5b-CA TG Teffs retained a graft-versus-leukemia response. These results indicate a major role for Stat5 in Treg expansion and potency along with a lesser but significant role in Teff activation and suggest a strategy of pharmacologic Stat5b up-regulation as a means of decreasing GVHD while retaining a graft-versus-leukemia effect.
A Framework for Service Management of Information Systems

Many information systems functions have made the transition from primarily providing their customer with information products to also providing their customers with information services. This change has implications for the way Management Information Systems (MIS)should be organized to best serve their customers. Rather than invent an entirely new approach to service design and management, MIS professionals can learn from the field of Service Management. Studying the techniques and concepts reported in Service Management, MIS professionals will find a wealth of information about improving customer service and satisfaction. This paper presents a framework for the management of information services. The framework adapts the Service Process Matrix and the Service Triad to form a basis for developing MIS architecture in support of service provision. Examples of how these concepts can be applied to MIS are provided throughout the discussion.
Auditing on-line systems: An evaluation of parallel versus Continuous and Intermittent Simulation

Abstract Two auditing techniques are described that can be used to audit on-line applications. Parallel simulation is a batch oriented technique that is used to audit on-line systems. Continuous and Intermittent Simulation (CIS) was specifically designed to audit on-line applications. CIS allows transactions to be audited as they are being processed. Procedures are given that determine which instructions of the application should be included in an audit using parallel simulation and CIS. Rules are given for an auditor to determine which auditing technique will create less overhead. This can be determined before the audit plan is implemented.
A study of the structure of petroleum asphaltenes and related substances by infrared spectroscopy

Abstract Infrared studies are reported that have as their objective a better understanding of the structure of native petroleum asphaltenes as contrasted to other asphaltic substances. The aromatic clusters of the native petroleum asphaltenes appear to be primarily pericondensed in contrast to katacondensation of those in coal. Heat treatment of petroleum results in the appearance of katacondensed structure in the asphaltene. Condensed naphthenic groups are shown to be present and to vary with the source of the crude oil and its treatment prior to separation of the asphaltic fraction. The proportions of the total number of carbons existing as naphthenic, paraffinic and, specifically, as terminal methyl groups have been estimated.
Does Caffeine Cessation Increase Firing Rates of Diffuse Paroxysmal Slowing Dysrhythmia? A Serendipitous Observation

As part of a quantitative EEG study 1 of caffeine withdrawal a serendipitous observation suggested that individuals with Diffuse Paroxysmal Slowing (a minor EEG dysrhythmia) in their baseline resting EEGs had an increased firing rate of this pattern while undergoing a period of caffeine abstinence. For all EEGs, individual bursts of Diffuse Paroxysmal Slowing were identified by consensus rating and the firing rate for this pattern expressed as the number of bursts per 10 minutes of alert waking activity. The firing rate of this pattern was seen to increase markedly during 4 days of verified abstinence and to return to baseline or lower than baseline levels following reintroduction of caffeine. Some possible implications of this phenomenon are discussed.
The origin and use of cannabis in eastern asia linguistic-cultural implications

Cannabis sativa is one of man's oldest cultivated plants. Botanically it is distinct from all other plants and readily recognized. Yet among individual plants it is extremely variable. It now grows spontaneously in great abundance and ubiquity. While most botanists consider the plant monotypic, some regard it as consisting of more than one species and a number of varieties, and so propose several different systems of classification. The systematics of this plant still awaits classification by further botanical studies. Cannabis is generally believed to be an Asiatic plant. There is no concerted agreement among botanists as to where the plant originally grew wild and where its cultivation first began. Estimates range within the wide span of temperate Asia from the Caucasus Mountains and the Caspian Sea through western and central Asia to eastern Asia. There is no easy way to distinguish between wild and spontaneous or adventitious, and semi-cultivated or cultivated plants. Therefore, much remains to be done in determining the geographical origin of the plant. These difficulties in classification and origin arise from the long and close association of Cannabis with man. Man has caused its extreme variations and wide dispersion. It will no longer suffice to study the plant itself alone. The influence of man must be considered side by side with the botanical facts in order to unveil the complex nature of this plant.
Gamma-irradiated cornea allograft for glaucoma surgery.

Purpose To describe the clinical outcomes and surgical applications of γ-irradiated cornea allograft in glaucoma surgery. Materials and methods We reviewed 10 consecutive patients who underwent primary or secondary glaucoma procedures using sterile cornea allograft. Results Ten eyes of 10 patients (5 males, mean age 50 y) were treated with sterile, irradiated cornea allograft. Mean follow-up was 24 months (range, 22.4 to 26.8 mo). The allograft was used for coverage of a primary glaucoma tube shunt in 3 patients, coverage of a revised glaucoma tube shunt in 5 patients, tectonic support of a revised trabeculectomy flap in 1 patient, and coverage of subconjunctival prolene sutures following a surgical iridoplasty in 1 patient. The allografts were stable and biocompatibile in all 10 cases during the follow-up period, evidenced by maintained clarity of the corneal tissue, absence of clinical signs of immunologic rejection or ocular inflammation, and integrity of the sterile cornea and the conjunctiva over the graft. Cosmetic results were satisfactory and there were no complications during the follow-up period. Conclusions In this small case series, sterile, γ-irradiated cornea allograft appeared to be safe and effective when used in glaucoma and anterior segment surgical procedures. Our results suggest advantages of sterile cornea allograft for coverage of glaucoma drainage implant tubes, including tissue transparency, resilience, and ease of surgical use.
Resistance of differentiating neurons to the antimetabolite, amethopterin.

Ambystoma embryos were immersed in a 0.005% amethopterin solution from open neurula to early swimming stages. The degree of neural degeneration was related to dosage, duration of experiment, specific structure concerned, or to all. Gross head deformities were first visible at stage 37. Brain and optic cups were seriously affected; spinal ganglia, otic vesicles, and nasal placodes much less so. Although mitotic activity was depressed by stage 29 and pycnotic degeneration within the brain and optic cup appeared by stage 33, the over-all shape and size of the neural tube were normal through stage 35. Subsequently the forebrain structures degenerated, but the medullary wall, though reduced in thickness, continued to parallel the normal in shape because of a sufficient residue of dividing and differentiating cells. Mauthner's and other large resistant neurons underwent an apparently normal nucleolar and Nissl-substance development until the late phases of the experiment. We interpret inhibition at this dosage to be due largely to some effect on RNA metabolism, perhaps at a level involving nucleolar function. Any repression of DNA metabolism that directly affects mitosis occurs relatively late, is partial, and may be bound to other effects involving RNA and protein synthesis. A possible sequestering of the drug over long exposures may result in intracellular concentrations that inhibit different levels of nucleic acid metabolism. The largest cells, such as Mauthner's neuron, with the greatest potential for production of nucleoprotein are most able to resist prolonged periods of exposure to amethopterin.
Limited activity monitoring in toddlers with autism spectrum disorder

This study used eye-tracking to examine how 20-month old toddlers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) (N=28), typical development (TD) (N=34), and non-autistic developmental delays (DD) (N=16) monitored the activities occurring in a context of an adult-child play interaction. Toddlers with ASD, in comparison to control groups, showed less attention to the activities of others and focused more on background objects (e.g. toys). In addition, while all groups spent the same time overall looking at people, toddlers with ASD looked less at people's heads and more at their bodies. In ASD, these patterns were associated with cognitive deficits and greater autism severity. These results suggest that the monitoring of the social activities of others is disrupted early in the developmental progression of autism, limiting future avenues for observational learning.
The Cerebellum-Enriched Form of Nuclear Factor I Is Functionally Different from Ubiquitous Nuclear Factor I in Glial-Specific Promoter Regulation

Nuclear factor I (NFI) binding sites are present in a wide range of brain-specific gene enhancer and promoter sequences and appear to play a role in establishing cell type-specific expression within the CNS. The precise mechanisms used by various members of the NFI family of proteins to confer brain-specific expression are unclear. We have addressed this issue by comparing the transactivating capabilities of two forms of NFI in directing gliotropic expression from two different JC virus (JCV) promoter configurations. The JCV is an opportunistic pathogen of humans that causes lytic destruction of the oligodendrocytes and thus demyelination in immunocompromised patients. Our results show that the cerebellum-enriched form of NFI (NFI-A1) transactivates two gliotropic JCV early promoters to a greater extent than the ubiquitous form of NFI (NFI-C1). Activation by NFI-A1 was dramatically greater in glial than in nonglial cells. These results suggest that NFI proteins direct brain-specific expression through combinatorial interactions with cell specific coactivators and/or transcription factors that recognize adjacent sites within brain specific promoters.
RPC performance at KLM/BELLE

The RPC detectors in the KL-muon (KLM) subsystem of the Belle detector and their performance are described in this paper. The Belle RPCs are built using glass electrodes. This system has operated stably with very high detection efficiency and low dark current since June 1, 1999.
Assaying the epigenome in limited numbers of cells

Spectacular advances in the throughput of DNA sequencing have allowed genome-wide analysis of epigenetic features such as methylation, nucleosome position and post-translational modification, chromatin accessibility and connectivity, and transcription factor binding. However, for rare or precious biological samples, input requirements of many of these methods limit their application. In this review we discuss recent advances for low-input genome-wide analysis of chromatin immunoprecipitation, methylation, DNA accessibility, and chromatin conformation.
Two-dimensional spatial-frequency-modulated imaging through parallel acquisition of line images

This Letter demonstrates a two-dimensional imaging technique that uses a line scan camera to resolve one spatial dimension and temporal modulation to resolve the perpendicular dimension. A temporal intensity modulation, which increases linearly in frequency along one direction is applied to an illumination beam. The modulated light distribution is imaged onto an object then onto a line scan camera oriented perpendicularly to the direction of the modulation sweep. A line diffuser is placed shortly before the line scan camera and diffuses light along the direction of modulation so that each pixel collects all modulation frequencies.
Phencyclidine (PCP): effects of acute and chronic administration on EEG activities in the rhesus monkey.

Effects of acute and chronic administration of phencyclidine (PCP) on EEG activities and gross behavior were studied in monkeys with electrodes implanted in the brain. Administration of PCP (2.0 or 4.0 mg/kg i.v.) in monkeys produced a biphasic pattern of inhibition and excitation of behavior during 6-8 h observation period. The inhibitory phase appeared 1-3 min after PCP injection, and was uniquely characterized by high-voltage slow waves with delta waves (0.6-0.8 c/sec) in the parietal lobe and by those with theta waves (4-5 c/sec) in the occipital lobe and hippocampus during behavioral stupor. This inhibitory phase lasted 1-1.5 h, and subsequently, high-voltage fast wave with enhancement of theta waves and nystagmus appeared during behavioral arousal. Upon chronic PCP administration, the intensity and duration of the inhibitory phase progressively decreased, while the effects of the excitatory phase increased. The results suggest that PCP administration in monkeys produces a biphasic pattern of inhibitory and excitatory effects and upon chronic administration a tolerance develops to the inhibitory effect while an augmentation of the excitatory effect develops.
Identification of pathways controlling DNA damage induced mutation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Mutation in response to most types of DNA damage is thought to be mediated by the error-prone sub-branch of post-replication repair and the associated translesion synthesis polymerases. To further understand the mutagenic response to DNA damage, we screened a collection of 4848 haploid gene deletion strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae for decreased damage-induced mutation of the CAN1 gene. Through extensive quantitative validation of the strains identified by the screen, we identified ten genes, which included error-prone post-replication repair genes known to be involved in induced mutation, as well as two additional genes, FYV6 and RNR4. We demonstrate that FYV6 and RNR4 are epistatic with respect to induced mutation, and that they function, at least partially, independently of post-replication repair. This pathway of induced mutation appears to be mediated by an increase in dNTP levels that facilitates lesion bypass by the replicative polymerase Polδ, and it is as important as error-prone post-replication repair in the case of UV- and MMS-induced mutation, but solely responsible for EMS-induced mutation. We show that Rnr4/Polδ-induced mutation is efficiently inhibited by hydroxyurea, a small molecule inhibitor of ribonucleotide reductase, suggesting that if similar pathways exist in human cells, intervention in some forms of mutation may be possible.
Organization of Acenes with a Cruciform Assembly Motif

This study explores the assembly in the crystalline state of a class of pentacenes that are substituted along their long edges with aromatic rings forming rigid, cruciform molecules. The crystals were grown from the gas phase, and their structures were compared with DFT-optimized geometries. Both crystallographic and computed structures show that a planar acene core is the exception rather than the rule. In the assembly of these molecules, the phenyl groups block the herringbone motif and further guide the arrangement of the acene core into higher order structures. The packing for the phenyl-substituted derivatives is dictated by close contacts between the C-H's of the pendant aromatic rings and the carbons at the fusions in the acene backbone. Using thiophene substituents instead of phenyls creates cofacially stacked acenes. In thin films, the thiophene-substituted derivative forms devices with good electrical properties: relatively high mobility, high ON/OFF ratios, and low threshold voltage for device activation. An unusual result is obtained for the decaphenyl pentacene when devices are fabricated on its crystalline surface. Although its acene cores are well isolated from each other, this material still exhibits good electrical properties.
Seasonal changes in pineal melatonin content and hydroxyindole-O-methyltransferase activity in juvenile chinook salmon, Oncorhynchus tshawytscha.

Abstract Juvenile fall and spring chinook salmon were examined for seasonal changes in pineal hydroxyindole- O -methyltransferase (HIOMT) activity. Numerous small peaks in pineal HIOMT specific activity were found in fall chinook salmon and HIOMT activity per pineal gland increased linearly with age and/or size. In spring chinook salmon, cyclic changes in pineal HIOMT specific activity occurred in midsummer and midwinter, independent of the photoperiod under which the fish were reared. HIOMT activity per pineal gland showed a peak in midwinter. Activity increased with age and/or size of the fish during the following spring. Melatonin content of the pineal gland of spring chinook salmon did not change seasonally in fish reared under a normal photoperiod. Fish reared under constant illumination had about 50% higher pineal melatonin content that those under a normal photoperiod until November. At that time, pineal melatonin content decreased to the same level as that of fish reared under a normal photoperiod.
Cauchy problem and Ehrenfest's law of nonlinear Schrödinger equations with potentials

Abstract In this paper, we prove the long-time existence of the flow in Q(H) for the nonlinear Schrodinger equation in R n i ∂ψ ∂t = − 1 2 Δψ + Vψ − ¦ψ¦ p−1 ψ, 1 ⩽p 4 n , where H = 1 2 Δ + V and Q(H) is the form domain of H, when the potential V is bounded below and satisfies the condition that ¦D α V¦ is bounded for all ¦α¦ ⩾ 2. We also show that the nonlinear analogue of the classical Ehrenfest's law for the (linear) Schrodinger equation holds for the above equation.
X‐linked adrenoleukodystrophy: The Australasian experience

Our objective was to review the Australasian experience of X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD), to compare the spectrum of disease seen in Australasia with previously published data from elsewhere, and to assess the reliability of carrier testing. Study design was a retrospective review of records collected over a 15-year period, the setting was an international referral laboratory for the study of metabolic disease, and the subjects were all known cases of ALD diagnosed in Australia and New Zealand between 1981 and 1996 and their families. We estimate that the combined incidence of ALD and its variants in Australasia is at least 1.6 per 100,000. Of 95 affected males, 51 had cerebral adrenoleukodystrophy, 24 had adrenomyeloneuropathy, 15 had Addison's disease only, and 5 remained asymptomatic when last examined. However, the distribution of phenotypes among newly diagnosed patients has changed substantially over the last 15 years, with cerebral forms of the disease forming a decreasing proportion of new diagnoses. The measurement of plasma very long chain fatty acids (VLCFAs) alone detects 93% of women who can be proven to be carriers. The addition of genetic linkage studies or assay of VLCFAs in cultured fibroblasts improved this detection rate to the point that there were no obligate carriers who could not be detected using a combination of two or more techniques.
Gene Regulation in S. mutans Complex Control in a Complex Environment

Dental caries is a chronic infectious disease of multifactorial etiology that derives from the interplay among cariogenic bacteria on the dentition, the host diet, and other environmental exposures. Streptococcus mutans proliferates as a biofilm on the tooth surface, where it obtains nutrients and metabolizes fermentable dietary carbohydrates. The accumulation of lactic acid as a by-product of fermentation results in acidification of the plaque biofilm and demineralization of tooth enamel, marking the onset of decay. The ability of S. mutans to respond to environmental stresses presented by salivary flow, acid pH, oxidative stress, and changes in carbohydrate source and availability is essential for its survival and predominance in caries lesions. Importantly, S. mutans has evolved a network of regulators to integrate its cellular response to environmental change. Herein we describe the latest insights into global gene regulation in S. mutans, including mechanisms of signal transduction, carbon catabolite...
The Economic Botany of Dragon Tongue

A crude drug sold under the name of Lung Lei Ip (Dragon Tongue) by the herb dealers in Hongkong and vicinity is identified as a euphorbiaceous ground cover. The morphological characters of the species are summarized, the history of its uses is reviewed, the medicinal merits reported and the ethnobotanical and ecological significance discussed.
Simultaneous Imaging of CBF Change and BOLD with Saturation-Recovery-T1 Method

A neuroimaging technique based on the saturation-recovery (SR)-T1 MRI method was applied for simultaneously imaging blood oxygenation level dependence (BOLD) contrast and cerebral blood flow change (ΔCBF), which is determined by CBF-sensitive T1 relaxation rate change (ΔR1CBF). This technique was validated by quantitatively examining the relationships among ΔR1CBF, ΔCBF, BOLD and relative CBF change (rCBF), which was simultaneously measured by laser Doppler flowmetry under global ischemia and hypercapnia conditions, respectively, in the rat brain. It was found that during ischemia, BOLD decreased 23.1±2.8% in the cortical area; ΔR1CBF decreased 0.020±0.004s-1 corresponding to a ΔCBF decrease of 1.07±0.24 ml/g/min and 89.5±1.8% CBF reduction (n=5), resulting in a baseline CBF value (=1.18 ml/g/min) consistent with the literature reports. The CBF change quantification based on temperature corrected ΔR1CBF had a better accuracy than apparent R1 change (ΔR1app); nevertheless, ΔR1app without temperature correction still provides a good approximation for quantifying CBF change since perfusion dominates the evolution of the longitudinal relaxation rate (R1app). In contrast to the excellent consistency between ΔCBF and rCBF measured during and after ischemia, the BOLD change during the post-ischemia period was temporally disassociated with ΔCBF, indicating distinct CBF and BOLD responses. Similar results were also observed for the hypercapnia study. The overall results demonstrate that the SR-T1 MRI method is effective for noninvasive and quantitative imaging of both ΔCBF and BOLD associated with physiological and/or pathological changes.
The effect of free-floating dendrites and convection on macrosegregation in direct chill cast aluminum alloys. Part I : model development

Abstract To obtain a better understanding of the evolution of macrosegregation during the direct chill casting of aluminum alloys, a binary mixture model has been developed that accounts for the redistribution of alloying elements through the transport of free-floating dendrites and fluid flow in the melt and mushy zones of a solidifying ingot. Separate and distinct mixture momentum equations are employed to account for momentum transfer in two-phase regions which include a slurry of free-floating dendrites and a rigid solid matrix. A scaling analysis revealed that the flow of liquid and free-floating dendrites is controlled by a balance between buoyancy forces arising from mixture density variations and the development of an adverse pressure gradient. In a companion paper, the model is used to predict macrosegregation in Al–4.5 wt% Cu and Al–6.0 wt% Mg billets.
Amino acid transport through the Saccharomyces cerevisiae Gap1 permease is controlled by the Ras/cAMP pathway

The general amino acid permease (Gap1p) of Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a broad range, low affinity permease that imports amino acids in cells growing on poor nitrogen sources. This permease also signals the presence of amino acids through the fermentable growth medium pathway allowing the cell to respond to new sources of nitrogen in the surrounding medium. Yeast with an activated Ras2/cAMP pathway show many phenotypes indicative of altered nitrogen uptake and metabolism; sensitivity to nitrogen starvation, low amino acid pools. We have shown that Gap1p activity is lowered in cells with an activated RAS2val19 allele or elevated cAMP levels whereas cells with inactive ras2 allele lose ammonia repression of Gap1p-mediated transport. This regulation is through a post-transcriptional mechanism; transcription of GAP1 is not affected by cAMP level. A mechanism by which the Ras2/cAMP/PKA pathway controls the ubiquitin-dependent degradation of Gap1p is most consistent with the data.
Dynamic response of a thyristor controlled switched capacitor

This paper computes the small signal dynamic response of a thyristor controlled series capacitor system for use in flexible AC transmission system control design. The computation includes the effects of synchronization and the nonlinearity due to thyristor switching. Eigenvalues of the small signal dynamic response are computed and used to study the dynamic response of the Kayenta system using different methods of synchronization and a closed loop control. >
Immunological and conformational characterization of a phosphorylated immunodominant epitope on the paired helical filaments found in Alzheimer's disease

Abstract The immunological recognition pattern of one of the most commonly used monoclonal antibodies, PHF-1, which detects the paired helical filaments of Alzheimer's disease, exhibits a high degree of similarity with the recognition of a polyclonal antibody, exhi-T3P, raised against a synthetic phosphopeptide, GAEIVYKS(Phospho)PVVSGD, corresponding to amino acids 389–402 of the microtubule-associated protein τ. A panel of 16 synthetic non-phosphorylated and phosphorylated peptides, excised from different regions of τ and peptide analogs thereof, were used to show that PHF-1 is indeed directed against the T3 fragment. Circular dichroism spectroscopy shows that the phosphorylated peptide exhibits a limited propensity to form intramolecular β-pleated sheets, and alteration is found in the reverse-turn structure that dominates the middle section of the molecule. The shift in the turn-forming amino acids may also allow a stacking procedure, may interfere with microtubule assembly, and, consequently, may be accountable for deposit formation.