cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mechanisms of oncogenic KIT signal transduction in primary gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs)

Most gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) express constitutively activated forms of the KIT receptor tyrosine kinase protein, resulting from oncogenic mutations in the extracellular, juxtamembrane, or kinase domains. KIT oncoproteins are detected early in GIST tumorigenesis, and most GIST patients respond well to treatment with the KIT kinase inhibitor imatinib mesylate (STI571, Gleevec®). However, GISTs can develop resistance to imatinib, and additional therapeutic strategies are needed. Little is known about oncogenic KIT signal transduction in GISTs, and whether the type of KIT mutation accounts for selective activation of downstream signaling intermediates. We therefore evaluated KIT downstream signaling profiles in 15 primary GISTs with mutations in KIT exons 9, 11, 13, and 17, and in two human GIST cell lines. All GISTs showed constitutive phosphorylation at KIT tyrosine residues Y703 and Y721. Additionally, most GISTs showed activation of MAPK p42/44, AKT, S6K, STAT1, and STAT3. STAT5 and JNK were not demonstrably activated in any GIST. Using GIST in vitro models, we showed that activation of MAPK p42/44, AKT, and S6K was KIT dependent, whereas STAT1 and STAT3 phosphorylation was only partially dependent on KIT activation. Correlation of activated signaling pathways with the type of KIT mutation revealed low levels of AKT phosphorylation in exon 9 mutant GISTs in contrast to a subset of GISTs with exon 11 mutations. However, additional factors are likely to modify the engagement of signaling pathways in GISTs as suggested by the fact that four GISTs with identical KIT exon 9 mutations had differential activation of MAPK p42/44 and STAT proteins. In summary, in this first report on KIT signal transduction in primary GISTs and GIST cell lines, we identified pathways that are constitutively activated in a KIT-dependent manner and therefore warrant further study as molecular targets in GISTs.
The motor cortex and corticospinal tract of the Armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus)

Abstract The neocortex of the armadillo, Dasypus novemcinctus, was explored by electrical stimulation and the motor area determined to be caudal to the supraorbital sulcus. Movements of the tongue, lips, pinna, scalp, shoulder, back, fore-limb and, to some extent, hind-limb could be elicited. The motor area for the lips and tongue was particularly large and it had the lowest threshold to stimulation. The motor cortex was characterized by deeply-staining pyramidal cells and the lack of a well-developed internal granular layer. The pyramidal cells were largest and most numerous in the limb area. Ablation of the motor cortex or part of it resulted in fiber degeneration within the contralateral ventral and lateral funiculi of the spinal cord. Degenerating fibers distributed extensively to the medial parts of laminae IV through VI and, to a much less extent, to the medial part of lamina III and the lateral parts of laminae V and VI. Degenerating fibers were not observed in the spinal cord after presupraorbital lesions or after ablations of the caudal or ventrocaudal neocortex.
Extinction of spherical diffusion flames in the presence of radiant loss

In this paper we examine the structure and extinction characteristics of burner-generated spherical diffusion flames. Two important parameters in this problem are the dimensionless mass flow rate, a ratio of fuel injection velocity to diffusion velocity, and the Damkohler number, which is proportional to the surface area of the burner, the fuel concentration in the feeding stream, and the ambient pressure. Both parameters can be easily controlled in an experiment. Particular attention is given in this study to the effects of gas-phase radiation either from soot or from combustion products and intermediate species. We show that radiant loss may lead to flame extinction at sufficiently high flow rates. Combined with the extinction limit due to a short residence time, we identify a range of mass flow rates outside of which steady burning cannot be sustained. Consequently, we are able to predict conditions under which steady flames may or may not exist, in terms of the prescribed fuel and oxidant concentrations and the corresponding Lewis numbers.
Spatiotemporal pattern and isoforms of cadherin 23 in wild type and waltzer mice during inner ear hair cell development.

Abstract Mutant alleles of the gene encoding cadherin 23 are associated with Usher syndrome type 1 (USH1D), isolated deafness (DFNB12) in humans, and deafness and circling behavior in waltzer (v) mice. Stereocilia of waltzer mice are disorganized and the kinocilia misplaced, indicating the importance of cadherin 23 for hair bundle development. Cadherin 23 was localized to developing stereocilia and proposed as a component of the tip link. We show that, during development of the inner ear, cadherin 23 is initially detected in centrosomes at E14.5, then along the length of emerging stereocilia, and later becomes concentrated at and subsequently disappears from the tops of stereocilia. In mature vestibular hair bundles, cadherin 23 is present along the kinocilium and in the region of stereocilia–kinocilium bonds, a pattern conserved in mammals, chicks, and frogs. Cadherin 23 is also present in Reissner's membrane (RM) throughout development. In homozygous v6J mice, a reported null allele, cadherin 23 was absent from stereocilia, but present in kinocilia, RM, and centrosomes. We reconciled these results by identifying two novel isoforms of Cdh23 unaffected in sequence and expression by the v6J allele. Our results suggest that Cdh23 participation in stereocilia links may be restricted to developing hair bundles.
Widespread A-to-I RNA Editing of Alu-Containing mRNAs in the Human Transcriptome

RNA editing by adenosine deamination generates RNA and protein diversity through the posttranscriptional modification of single nucleotides in RNA sequences. Few mammalian A-to-I edited genes have been identified despite evidence that many more should exist. Here we identify intramolecular pairs of Alu elements as a major target for editing in the human transcriptome. An experimental demonstration in 43 genes was extended by a broader computational analysis of more than 100,000 human mRNAs. We find that 1,445 human mRNAs (1.4%) are subject to RNA editing at more than 14,500 sites, and our data further suggest that the vast majority of pre-mRNAs (greater than 85%) are targeted in introns by the editing machinery. The editing levels of Alu-containing mRNAs correlate with distance and homology between inverted repeats and vary in different tissues. Alu-mediated RNA duplexes targeted by RNA editing are formed intramolecularly, whereas editing due to intermolecular base-pairing appears to be negligible. We present evidence that these editing events can lead to the posttranscriptional creation or elimination of splice signals affecting alternatively spliced Alu-derived exons. The analysis suggests that modification of repetitive elements is a predominant activity for RNA editing with significant implications for cellular gene expression.
Estimating the Sensitivity of the Atmospheric Teleconnection Patterns to SST Anomalies Using a Linear Statistical Method

AbstractThe Pacific–North American (PNA) pattern and the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) are known to contain a tropical sea surface temperature (SST)-forced component. This study examines the sensitivity of the wintertime NAO and PNA to patterns of tropical SST anomalies using a linear statistical–dynamic method. The NAO index is sensitive to SST anomalies over the tropical Indian Ocean, the central Pacific Ocean, and the Caribbean Sea, and the PNA index is sensitive to SST anomalies over the tropical Pacific and Indian Oceans. The NAO and PNA patterns can be reproduced well by combining the linear operator with the consistent SST anomaly over the Indian Ocean and the Nino-4 regions, respectively, suggesting that these are the most efficient ocean basins that force the teleconnection patterns. During the period of 1950–2000, the NAO time series reconstructed by using SST anomalies over the Indian Ocean + Nino-4 region + Caribbean Sea or the Indian Ocean + Nino-4 region is significantly correlated with t...
The Optimal Production of Gametocytes byPlasmodium falciparum

Abstract We use a simple model of the blood-stage infection dynamics of the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum to consider the adaptive significance of different rates of conversion from its pathogenic, asexual stages to its transmissible, sexual forms. We find that the rates that maximize transmissivity in single-strain infections are generally greater than the highest rates reported for in vitro cultures and are several times those for which the behavior of the model is consistent with clinical profiles of infection dynamics. When two strains that share a common immune agent coinfect a host through simultaneous inoculation or sequential superinfection, however, a strain with a lower, clinically-consistent value of the conversion rate inhibits the transmissivity of the one with the higher value optimal for single-strain infection. Hence we suggest that “apparent” competition by way of a common immune response might be responsible for selection of the former.
Economic Rents Under Supply Controls with Marketable Quota

We analyze the distribution of economic rent between owners and renters of marketable production quotas and examine how this distribution changes with increases in marginal costs. While quota owners unambiguously lose because of a marginal cost increase, quota renters may gain, depending on whether the marginal cost shift is divergent, parallel, or convergent. Using output and input prices, county production quotas, and quota rental rate data, we estimate a marginal cost function for North Carolina flue-cured tobacco to demonstrate how wage increases affect owners' and renters' welfare.
The State of Coverage: The Media’s Representation of International Issues and State Crime

This study examines how newsmagazines, in the United States and the United Kingdom, cover domestic and international issues, and specifically how many of these center on domestic or international crime. Four newsmagazines were selected (Time, Newsweek, The Economist, and Prospect) yielding 1,489 covers between the years 2000 and 2008. Primary coding centered on depiction of international issues, international crime, domestic issues, domestic crime, and state crime. As expected, more newsmagazines in U.K. magazines featured international issues (79%) compared to the United States (21%). Few newsmagazines featured either domestic or international crimes in either country. Notably, coverage of state crime was lacking. On the surface, Bicket and Wall’s findings were supported, indicating that the British media is more competitive and aggressive in its international coverage. However, a deeper analysis of the actual content of international coverage seems to contradict Bicket and Wall’s research. This research adds to that of Kohut and Toth, which found that foreign news is still highly selective in its coverage, predominantly focusing on the relationship of the United States to other countries.
Subthalamic deep brain stimulation in patients with a previous pallidotomy.

The safety and efficacy of subthalamic nucleus (STN) deep brain stimulation (DBS) in patients who have had a previous unilateral pallidotomy is not clear. We identified 10 patients (9 male) at the Baylor College of Medicine Parkinson's Disease Center who underwent STN DBS after prior unilateral pallidotomy. Demographics, efficacy as determined by off Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) part III scores, and levodopa equivalent dosing were analyzed. We then compared these to an age- and sex-matched group of 25 DBS patients who had no prior pallidotomy. After their initial pallidotomy (mean age, 51.8 ± 10.8 years), the mean UPDRS motor off medicine scores improved from 51.3 ± 14.3 to 34.9 ± 12.8, and the UPDRS dyskinesia score improved from 1.8 ± 1.0 to 0.8 ± 0.7. Their STN DBS off UPDRS motor scores (mean age, 56.0 ± 10.2 years) improved by 16.0% from 53.1 ± 9.7 (range, 42–68) to 44.6 ± 11.1 (range, 25–67). In contrast, the UPDRS off motor scores in a control group of 25 DBS patients improved by 49.9%, from 49.7 ± 11.1 to 25.7 ± 18.9, (16.0% vs. 49.9%; P < 0.001). Changes in UPDRS dyskinesia scores were similar in both groups. AE thought to be related to the STN DBS following pallidotomy included worse dysarthria (three) and worse balance (two). STN DBS patients with prior pallidotomy had less improvement in UPDRS off motor score compared to other STN DBS patients, despite relatively good outcomes immediately after their pallidotomy. This may be partially due to a selection bias, but it may also indicate that prior pallidotomy is a negative predictor of outcome of STN DBS and should be considered in patient selection. © 2006 Movement Disorder Society
Society for Pediatric Research Presidential Address 1993: Development of the Academic Pediatrician

Society for Pediatric Research Presidential Address 1993: Development of the Academic Pediatrician
Schedule control in the White-Necked Raven, Corvus cryptoleucus

Five White-Necked ravens were run to behavioral stability on each of three moderate schedules of positive reinforcement: FR 50, FI 4 min, and RI 2.5 min. The sequence of schedule exposure for any one raven was different from that for any other raven. Temporal variations in rates emitted by the raven under these schedules were characteristic of those emitted by other species more typically used in operant conditioning studies.
A preliminary investigation of computer-enhanced counselor training

Abstract Microcomputers have been used for assessment, diagnosis, and self-help activities within the counseling environment. Counselor training is one area in which computers have seen very little use. A counselor training class was used to explore the potential of computers as training adjuncts. Students (N = 20) were randomly assigned to participate in counseling simulations via computer during either the first (n = 10) or second (n = 10) halves of the course. Analysis of covariance results demonstrated the effectiveness of the computer-enhanced training. Limitations and directions for future research are discussed.
A Computer Program to Promote Understanding of the Monitoring Method Evaluation Guidelines Used at NIOSH

A computer-based training program has been devised to promote better understanding of the recently revised National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) test guidelines applicable to methods requiring on-site sample collection and laboratory sample analysis of airborne toxic substances. A statistics section explains the basis of the NIOSH accuracy criterion (NAC); an experiments section provides details on the evaluation experiments; and a calculations section calculates method statistics based on data entered by the user. The statistics section graphically explains concepts such as the NAC and limit of detection, allowing the user to experiment with some parameters to see how the results are affected. This section also provides background material to show how some of the performance criteria evolved. The experiments section provides a summary of the experiments used to generate the data for method evaluation. The calculations section has several screens that work like customized spreadshe...
Sequence space coverage, entropy of genomes and the potential to detect non-human DNA in human samples

Genomes store information for building and maintaining organisms. Complete sequencing of many genomes provides the opportunity to study and compare global information properties of those genomes. We have analyzed aspects of the information content of Homo sapiens, Mus musculus, Drosophila melanogaster, Caenorhabditis elegans, Arabidopsis thaliana, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Escherichia coli (K-12) genomes. Virtually all possible (> 98%) 12 bp oligomers appear in vertebrate genomes while 98% to < 2% of possible oligomers in D. melanogaster (12–17 bp), C. elegans (11–17 bp), A. thaliana (11–17 bp), S. cerevisiae (10–16 bp) and E. coli (9–15 bp). Frequencies of unique oligomers in the genomes follow similar patterns. We identified a set of 2.6 M 15-mers that are more than 1 nucleotide different from all 15-mers in the human genome and so could be used as probes to detect microbes in human samples. In a human sample, these probes would detect 100% of the 433 currently fully sequenced prokaryotes and 75% of the 3065 fully sequenced viruses. The human genome is significantly more compact in sequence space than a random genome. We identified the most frequent 5- to 20-mers in the human genome, which may prove useful as PCR primers. We also identified a bacterium, Anaeromyxobacter dehalogenans, which has an exceptionally low diversity of oligomers given the size of its genome and its GC content. The entropy of coding regions in the human genome is significantly higher than non-coding regions and chromosomes. However chromosomes 1, 2, 9, 12 and 14 have a relatively high proportion of coding DNA without high entropy, and chromosome 20 is the opposite with a low frequency of coding regions but relatively high entropy. Measures of the frequency of oligomers are useful for designing PCR assays and for identifying chromosomes and organisms with hidden structure that had not been previously recognized. This information may be used to detect novel microbes in human tissues.
Stress and Deformation: A Handbook on Tensors in Geology

Okay, everyone who thinks that continuum mechanics makes inherently fascinating, light reading, raise your hands. Hmm, I thought so. Most geologists and not a few geophysicists view continuum mechanics almost as a necessary evil, somewhat akin to a bad tasting medicine, which will make us better scientists even though the process of acquiring that knowledge may be unpleasant. Nonetheless, there is something appealing about the common mechanical underpinnings of such diverse topics as structuralgeology, crystallography, glacial physics, and seismology, to name a few. The question is, how can we teach continuum mechanics to students so that they not only “get it” but appreciate it?
The Effect of Intestinal Resection and Urogastrone on Intestinal Regeneration

• Intestinal regeneration in patched intestinal defects is enhanced by both intestinal resection and urogastrone. Our aim was to determine if these two stimuli have synergistic effects. Ileal defects were patched with colon serosa in 45 rabbits. Group 1 (n = 11) were control subjects; group 2 (n = 12) underwent 50% intestinal resection; group 3 (n=11) received urogastrone (1.5 μg/kg per hour subcutaneously); and group 4 (n = 11) underwent intestinal resection and received urogastrone. Animals were killed at 7 and 14 days. Intestinal resection had the greater effect on epithelialization. Urogastrone inhibited contraction and intestinal resection did not. Both intestinal resection and urogastrone increased proliferative activity. Combining intestinal resection and urogastrone did not have a synergistic effect on epithelialization and diminished the effect of urogastrone on proliferation and contraction. These findings suggest that intestinal resection and urogastrone stimulate epithelialization via similar mechanisms and that urogastrone would not enhance regeneration during intestinal adaptation. ( Arch Surg. 1990;125:1617-1621)
A Systems Engineering Approach to Quantitative Comparison of Molecular Instruments for Use on the International Space Station

The presence of microorganisms on the International Space Station (ISS) poses a threat to the health and safety of the ISS crew. Currently the ISS utilizes culture-based methods to detect and identify microorganisms. These methods are out dated and time-consuming. Molecular methods can deliver accurate results and require less processing time. This article details an approach to determine which molecular methods instrument most closely meets the Microbial Monitoring System (MMS) requirements for use on the ISS. We utilize the decision-theoretic Analytical Hierarchy Process and Quality Function Deployment while aligning the systems requirements vs. instrument capabilities in a Pugh Matrix to perform a quantitative assessment of six candidate systems, with the analysis yielding a single recommended instrument for use on the ISS. We demonstrate our techniques to be very effective for selection of the best instrument—the recommended system is currently under consideration for use on the ISS.
Bone mineral loss during lactation and recovery after weaning

Objective To test the hypothesis that bone mineral content (BMC) and density (BMD) are lost during lactation and regained within 6 months after weaning. Methods Two cohorts of women, defined by time postpartum, were enrolled into the study; each cohort was followed for 6 months. Women in the lactation cohort (65 lactating women and 48 nonlactating postpartum controls) were enrolled at 2 weeks postpartum. Women in the weaning cohort (40 lactating and 43 nonlactating postpartum controls) were enrolled at 4–6 months postpartum. Lactating women enrolled in the weaning cohort had been fully breast-feeding at enrollment and weaned within 2 months of enrollment. Bone mineral content of the total body and BMD of the lumbar spine and distal radius were measured by dualenergy x-ray absorptiometry. Results Lactating women lost significantly more bone in the total body (−2.8 versus −1.7%) and lumbar spine (−3.9 versus 1.5%) than did nonlactating women during the first 6 months postpartum. There was no effect of lactation on bone changes at the distal radius. After weaning, lactating women gained significantly more bone in the lumbar spine than did nonlactating women (5.5 versus 1.8%). Earlier resumption of menses was associated with a smaller loss of bone during lactation and a greater increase of bone after weaning. Conclusion Women lose bone during lactation but gain bone after weaning. Thus, lactation may not result in net bone loss.
Entamoeba histolytica: autoradiographic analysis of nuclear sites of RNA synthesis.

Abstract Autoradiographs of sectioned Entamoeba histolytica labeled with [5-3H]uridine for time periods ranging from 15 sec to 24 hr revealed (1) some evenly distributed nuclear label and (2) extensive labeling of the peripheral nuclear chromatin. This nuclear area is the probable site of synthesis (or accumulation) of ribosomal RNA and/or ribosomal precursor RNA. Also seen was (3) evenly dispersed cytoplasmic label with peaks of labeling after ca. 48 hr of exposure to isotope. Pulses of 5 min, 15 min, 1 hr, and 2 hr followed by a 5-min to 3-hr chase in unlabeled medium with carrier uridine demonstrated that most of the pulse-labeled nuclear RNA was lost from the nucleus; however, a small amount of stable nuclear RNA was detected after a 2- to 3-hr chase. Further, an instability of cytoplasmic RNA was also detected.
Theories of Secession

Approche systematique des differents types de theories normatives de la secession. Distinguant les arguments en faveur d'une justification d'un droit moral de la secession et les arguments en faveur d'une justification des prescriptions du droit international, l'A. compare les theories du droit reperateur et les theories du droit originaire en vertu du principe de l'integrite territoriale et de l'integrite de la participation politique en democratie
CONSTRUCTING LORENZ TYPE ATTRACTORS THROUGH SINGULAR PERTURBATIONS

Lorenz type attractors are constructed by singular perturbations. The technique is based on a new type of fast switching subsystem and the method of Deng [1994]. New attractors of the Lorenz type are found when parameters in the system are varied. The singular limit attractors are also presented in terms of one-dimensional mappings.
Grid generation for internal flow configurations

Abstract This paper is concerned with analysis and applications of geometry-grid generation methodologies for internal flow configurations. Weighted transfinite interpolation technique is combined with cubic splines and Bezier curves to accomplish well-distributed zonal grids. The concept of surface distribution mesh and volume distribution mesh is presented and its natural application to adaptive grids is developed. Grid refinement algorithms are developed using applications of elliptic grid systems. Various computational examples of practical interest are presented.
The reliability of multicomponent systems subject to cannibalization

A reliability model for multicomponent multistate systems is presented. This is a generalization of a model previously studied by Hirsch, Meisner, and Boll. In the earlier model, when a failure occurs for which no replacement spare is available, the locations using the same type of part as that having failed are “cannibalized” so as to allocate the shortages to locations where they are least detrimental to system performance. Here, we permit certain restrictions to be imposed upon the cannibalization procedure, and develop effective techniques for relating the probability laws governing the level of system performance to the system structure, cannibalization policy, kit of spare parts, and part reliabilities.
Kinetics and energetics of the criegee intermediate in the gas phase. II. The criegee intermediate in the photooxidation of formaldehyde, in alkyldioxy disproportionation and O + oxoalkane addition reactions

'The gas-phase kinetics and energetics of the Criegee intermediate, deduced from studies of 0:l-alkene systems, suggest that a hydroxy-substituted Criegee intermediate prohahly participates in the photooxidation of formaldehyde. In contradistinction, the existing evidence suggests that the Criegee intermediate and its isomers are prohahly not involved in alkyldioxy disproportionation reactions. In the case of 0 + oxoalkane addition reactions, the Criegee intermediate and its isomers are discussed in terms of a complex equilibrium: 0 + oxoalkane -10 + oxoalkane adduct].
Does sulphate enrichment promote the expansion of Typha domingensis (cattail) in the Florida Everglades?1

SUMMARY 1. The expansion of Typha domingensis into areas once dominated by Cladium jamaicense in the Florida Everglades has been attributed to altered hydrology and phosphorus enrichment, although increased concentrations of sulphate and phosphorus often coincide. The potential importance of hydrogen sulphide produced from sulphate in the expansion of Typha has received little attention. The present study aimed to quantify the comparative growth and photosynthetic responses of Cladium and Typha to sulphate ⁄ sulphide. 2. Laboratory experiments showed that Cladium is less tolerant of sulphide than Typha. Cladium was adversely affected at sulphide concentrations of approximately 0.22 mM, while Typha continued to grow well and appeared healthy up to 0.69 mM sulphide. 3. Experiments in field mesocosms provided strong support for species-specific differences in physiology and growth. Regardless of interstitial sulphide concentrations attained, Typha grew faster and had a higher photosynthetic capacity than Cladium. However, sulphide concentrations in the mesocosms reached only 0.18 mM which, based on the hydroponic study, was insufficient to affect the growth or photosynthetic responses of either species. Nevertheless, the upper range of sulphide (0.25–0.375 mM) in Everglades’ soil is high enough, based on our results, to impact Cladium but not Typha. 4. This research supports the hypothesis that sulphide accumulation could affect plant species differentially and modify species composition. Consequently, the role of sulphate loading should be considered, in conjunction with hydroperiod, phosphorus availability and disturbances, in developing future management plans for the Everglades.
A Hodge decomposition interpretation for the coefficients of the chromatic polynomial

Let G be a simple graph with n nodes. The coloring complex of G, as defined by Steingrimsson, has r-faces consisting of all ordered set partitions, (B 1 ,..., B r+2 ) in which at least one B i contains an edge of G. Jonsson proved that the homology H * (G) of the coloring complex is concentrated in the top degree. In addition, Jonsson showed that the dimension of the top homology is one less than the number of acyclic orientations of G. In this paper, we show that the Eulerian idempotents give a decomposition of the top homology of G into n - 1 components H n-3 (J) (G). We go on to prove that the dimensions of the Hodge pieces of the homology are equal to the absolute values of the coefficients of the chromatic polynomial of G. Specifically, if we write XG (λ) = (Σ n-1 j=1 cj(-1) n-J λ J ) + A", then dim(H) (J) n-3 (G)) = c j .
Myxofibrosarcoma: prevalence and diagnostic value of the “tail sign” on magnetic resonance imaging

Objective Myxofibrosarcoma frequently shows curvilinear extensions of high T2 signal that also enhance on magnetic resonance imaging; these “tails” represent fascial extension of tumor at histopathological examination. This study was performed to determine whether the tail sign is helpful in distinguishing myxofibrosarcoma from other myxoid-containing neoplasms.
Rotating slat collimator design for high-energy near-field imaging

Certain elements (such as Fe, Cu, Zn, etc.) are vital to the body and an imbalance of such elements can either be a symptom or cause of certain pathologies. Neutron Stimulated Emission Computed Tomography (NSECT) is a spectroscopic imaging technique whereby the body is illuminated via a beam of neutrons causing elemental nuclei to become excited and emit characteristic gamma radiation. Acquiring the gamma energy spectra in a tomographic geometry allows reconstruction of elemental concentration images. Previously we have demonstrated the feasibility of NSECT using first generation CT approaches; while successful, the approach does not scale well and has limited resolution. Additionally, current gamma cameras operate in an energy range too low for NSECT imaging. However, the orbiting Reuven Ramaty High Energy Solar Spectroscopic Imager (RHESSI) captures and images gamma rays over the high-energy range equivalent to NSECT's (3 keV to 17 MeV) by utilizing Collimator-based Fourier transform imaging. A High Purity Germanium (HPGe) detector counts the number of energy events per unit of time, providing spectroscopic data. While a pair of rotating collimators placed in front of the detector modulates the number of gamma events, providing spatial information. Knowledge of the number of energy events at each discrete collimator angle allows for 2D image reconstruction. This method has proven successful at a focus of infinity in the RHESSI application. Our goal is to achieve similar results at a reasonable near-field focus. Here we describe the results of our simulations to implement a rotating modulation collimator (RMC) gamma imager for use in NSECT using simulations in Matlab. To determine feasible collimator setups and the stability of the inverse problem a Matlab environment was created that uses the geometry of the system to generate 1D observation data from 2D images and then to reconstruct 2D images using the MLEM algorithm. Reasonable collimator geometries were determined, successful reconstruction was achieved and the inverse problem was found to be stable.
The effects of idiotype on the ability of IgG1 antiphosphorylcholine antibodies to protect mice from fatal infection with Streptococcus pneumoniae

Anti-phosphorylcholine (PC) antibodies of the mouse are found in three different idiotype families: T15, M603 and M511. These subgroups exhibit different specificities for PC analogs and utilize light chains of different VL subgroups. In this study we have found that IgG1 antibodies of the T15 idiotype are much more protective against pneumococcal infection than IgG1 antibodies of the M511 or M603 idiotypes. This finding provides additional evidence that the T15 VH and VL genes may have evolved to protect mice from infection with PC-bearing pathogens.
Effect of beam quality on the free-electron laser

The effect of finite momentum spread on the free-electron-laser amplifier is investigated for a configuration of a helical wiggler and an axial guide magnetic field. A set of coupled nonlinear differential equations in three dimensions describing the evolution of the electron trajectories and the radiation field is derived and solved numerically for several sets of parameters. The initial beam distribution is defined external to the wiggler field and the adiabatic injection of the beam into the wiggler is modeled by allowing the wiggler amplitude to increase slowly from zero to a constant amplitude over several wiggler periods. While the efficiency is found to decrease rapidly with increasing momentum spread, resonant effects between the wiggler and guide magnetic fields are found to substantially decrease the sensitivity of the saturation efficiency to the beam emittance. In addition, a relatively sharp change in the slope of the efficiency versus beam momentum spread is identified with the transition between the ``cold'' and ``thermal'' beam regimes.
A comparison of noun and verb forms on the semantic differential

What are the functions of formal devices in language uncovered by grammatical theory in conveying meaning? One recurring topic is the differences in meanings conveyed by noun and verb forms. Wells (1960) outlines the general philological opinion; nouns are more "static" and less "vivid" than verbs; their use makes for longer sentences but less diversity than use of verbs. Nouns also help to convey impersonality. But Wells also points out that the use of nouns or verbs entails other linguistic consequences, such as the shift from adjectival to adverbial modifiers, with a shift from the use of nouns
The Complex Politics of Relevance in Geography

As a discipline, geographers have debated what it means to make research relevant. In this article, we argue that the issue of what makes research relevant cannot be separated from the questions of why research should be relevant, how research becomes relevant, the goals of research, and for whom it is intended to be relevant. In this sense, the determination of relevance is a social and political process. We make this point through an evaluation of various writings on relevance, editorials that have appeared in the Newsletter of the Association of American Geographers, and through interviews with researchers. We argue that relevance can be intended, but that commitment to relevant research requires a long-term view and an appreciation for the indirect pathways of relevance.
Management of the myxedematous patient with symptoms of cardiovascular disease

Abstract 1. 1. In myxedema, variations in blood proteins are of no value in following the results of therapy. 2. 2. In myxedema with cardiac failure, variations in the weight of the patient, his basal metabolic rate, and his circulation time are of no value in ascertaining his thyroid status at any particular moment. 3. 3. When taken in conjunction with the initial level, i.e., before treatment, the total blood cholesterol has been a very reliable method of ascertaining the degree of thyroid sufficiency in myxedema with cardiac failure, for it is uninfluenced by the latter in the absence of signs of liver damage. 4. 4. An increase in capillary permeability is a constant feature of myxedema. A decrease from the initially high permeability is one of the earliest and most constant signs of improvement. 5. 5. Thyroid therapy must be used cautiously in myxedema with cardiac failure. The dose should be sufficiently small to avoid an aggravation of the cardiac phenomena, but, no matter how severe the failure is, some hormone should be used. An effort should be made to make the initial dose sufficiently large to effect a decrease in capillary permeability. 6. 6. Satisfactory initial daily doses of thyroid hormone, as desiccated thyroid substance, have ranged from 0.05 to 1 grain. In thirteen cases, stabilization was attained through the daily use of amounts varying from 0.5 to 3 grains.
A rating system for evaluating the suitability of larval diets for cabbage loopers.

Pre- and postlarval criteria were condensed into a single analyzable form expressed as percentage of control to evaluate the overall suitability of various larval dietary formulations for Trichoplusia ni (Hubner). By this system, a cottonseed meal-wheat bran diet was comparable to a modified Ignoffo diet.
Anthocyanins and their role in cancer prevention

Anthocyanins are the most abundant flavonoid constituents of fruits and vegetables. The conjugated bonds in their structures, which absorb light at about 500 nm, are the basis for the bright red, blue and purple colors of fruits and vegetables, as well as the autumn foliage of deciduous trees. The daily intake of anthocyanins in residents of the United States is estimated to be about 200 mg or about 9-fold higher than that of other dietary flavonoids. In this review, we summarize the latest developments on the anti-carcinogenic activities of anthocyanins and anthocyanin-rich extracts in cell culture models and in animal model tumor systems, and discuss their molecular mechanisms of action. We also suggest reasons for the apparent lack of correlation between the effectiveness of anthocyanins in laboratory model systems and in humans as evidenced by epidemiological studies. Future studies aimed at enhancing the absorption of anthocyanins and/or their metabolites are likely to be necessary for their ultimate use for chemoprevention of human cancer.
Racial Differences in Bacterial Vaginosis among Pregnant Women: The Relationship between Demographic and Behavioral Predictors and Individual BV-Related Microorganism Levels

Objective To determine predictors of bacterial vaginosis (BV) and the level of three common BV-related microorganisms by racial group. Methods Prospective cohort study of 1,886 pregnant women. BV was measured with Nugent’s Gram Stain criteria, smoking status with urinalysis of cotinine levels, and stress with Cohen’s perceived stress scale. Results 73% of the cohort were African-American and 37% were BV positive. Smoking, numerous sexual partners, and single status were related to both BV positivity as well as higher levels of Gardnerella ssp. among African-American pregnant women. Age and history of STD were associated with BV positivity, and history of STD and insurance status were associated with Gardnerella ssp. levels in non-African-American pregnant women. Contrary to prior research, perceived stress and douching were not associated with BV positivity or the level of any of the BV-related microorganisms in this cohort. Conclusions A greater number of modifiable, behavioral-related risk factors predicted BV and the level of BV-related microorganisms among African-American compared to non-African-American pregnant women. A deeper understanding of predictors of BV and related microorganism levels by racial group may help eliminate critical disparities with respect to BV positivity and adverse pregnancy outcomes, including spontaneous preterm birth.
Septal damage and muricide: Effects of strain and handling

Abstract Rats from two strains (Long-Evans and Sprague-Dawley) were subjected to either septal ablations or sham operations and were either handled or not handled for the first four postoperative days. On the fifth day all animals were tested for muricidal behavior using albino mice. L-E rats showed a greater tendency to kill than S-D rats. Additionally, septal lesions increased the probability of muricide in the L-E strain while no difference was observed in S-D rats. Finally, handling had no effect upon the expression of muricide.
Potassium-Feldspar Phenocrysts in the Surface of Colomera, and Iron Meteorite

Silicate aggregates, including large single crystals of potassium feldspar as long as 11 centimeters and sodium feldspar, are embeded in the surface of the medium octahedrite Colomera. Silicate nodules in the interior appear to be much smaller (about 0.3 centimeter). Glass nodules are abundant both on the external surface and in the interior. These observations are evidence that some iron meteorites formed as segregations within a silicate matrix and did not originate in a metallic core.
Quantum dot encoding of aptamer-linked nanostructures for one-pot simultaneous detection of multiple analytes

One major challenge in analytical chemistry is multiplex sensing of a number of analytes with each analyte displaying a different signal. To meet such a challenge, quantum dots that emit at 525 and 585 nm are used to encode aptamer-linked nanostructures sensitive to adenosine and cocaine, respectively. In addition to quantum dots, the nanostructures also contain gold nanoparticles that serve as quenchers. Addition of target analytes disassembles the nanostructures and results in increased emission from quantum dots. Simultaneous colorimetric and fluorescent detection and quantification of both molecules in one pot is demonstrated.
A knowledge‐based system for the recycling of non‐hazardous industrial residuals in civil engineering applications

: It is estimated that 4.6 billion tons of non-hazardous solid waste materials are produced annually in the USA. The potential reuse for a portion of the materials in the construction of highways and roads suggests that valuable benefits in terms of economic and environmental gains are possible. This paper describes the development of a prototype computer-assisted tool or expert system to help manufacturers assess and analyze their industrial residuals as potential road construction material. This represents an expansion in the application of intelligent systems to domains where a few, hard-to-find technical reports have represented the main source of expertise available to practitioners for years. The system, developed through the use of an object-oriented software shell, Level5 Object, was designed in a user-friendly Windows environment which allows users with little or no computer training to effectively evaluate material residuals.
SOURCES OF STIMULUS CONTROL DURING MULTIPLE DISCRIMINATIONS1

Pigeons learned to respond to the middle-sized member of six or seven sets of three stimuli differing in size. The sets were used successively, each serving as the discrimination problem from 10 to 16 times. After attaining criterion with one set, the birds received the others as probes. The number of responses in probes was related to the similarity of the probes to the prevailing discrimination problem. The birds responded either to the probe stimulus to which responding had most recently been reinforced, or to the probe stimulus closest in size to the positive member (S+) of the prevailing discrimination problem. Responses to a middle-sized probe-set stimulus occurred when it was the probe-set member most recently correlated with reinforcement, when it was one of two stimuli closest in size to S+, and when the stimulus closest in size to S+ was a negative member of the discrimination problem. All of the behavior could be explained in terms of control by the absolute sizes of the various stimuli.
Role of duplex scanning for the detection of atherosclerotic renal artery disease

Role of duplex scanning for the detection of atherosclerotic renal artery disease. To assess the accuracy of renal artery duplex scanning for the purpose of diagnosing atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis, we compared the findings of renal arteriograms to the results of duplex scanning in 41 patients. Using an increase of renal artery peak systolic flow velocity of greater than 180 cm/sec, duplex scanning was able to discriminate normal from diseased renal arteries with a sensitivity of 95% and a specificity of 90%. Using the principle that blood flow velocity across a stenosis is roughly proportional to the degree of stenosis, it appeared that a ratio of the peak velocity in the renal artery to the aorta (RAR) of greater 3.5 predicted a greater than 60% diameter reduction of that renal artery, which is felt to be a significant stenosis Forty-eight vessels were classified as having a greater than 60% diameter reduction by arteriography. Using the RAR of greater than 3.5, duplex scanning agreed in 44 renal arteries (sensitivity 92%). In the 26 renal arteries where arteriography showed a less than 60% diameter reduction, duplex scanning agreed in 16 vessels and correctly detected a focal narrowing in nine of the remaining ten vessels. Ten of 11 occluded renal arteries were correctly identified by duplex scanning. Duplex scanning determined the location of the renal artery lesion with an accuracy of 95% (kappa 0.74). Since duplex scanning can accurately demonstrate and locate focal renal artery stenosis, we believe it may become an accurate screening test for renovascular hypertension. A renal artery velocity increase to greater than 180 cm/s is an accurate predictor of renal artery disease, and a RAR of greater than 3.5 is an accurate predictor of a significant renal artery stenosis.
Customer Prioritization Strategies for Distribution Management

Analyses the operational implications of marketing strategies that try to distinguish between high‐ and low‐priority customers. For a high‐priority customer, the distributor is willing to expedite an order from any emergency source. For a low‐priority customer, on the other hand, distributors will back‐order demand. Bases results on a normative model of dealer behaviour developed by the authors. The distributors are assumed to follow a periodic‐review, stochastic‐demand (s, S) inventory control policy. The principal constraint is a minimum level of service (fill rate) which reflects the objectives of the manufacturer. Bases the analysis on a complete experimental design where a distinction is made between exogenous (replenishment lead time and expedite cost) and endogenous (achieved service level and customer prioritization) variables. In addition, identifies small and large distributors as a function of the demand parameters. Results highlight policy options available to the manufacturer to increase the ...
Brain abnormalities in the lurcher (Lc) mutant mouse.

Le cervelet des souris heterozygotes de la mutation «lurcher» (Lc) presentent des anomalies. Il est reduit et deforme, en particulier l'uvula vermis. On peut detecter ces anomalies chez le nouveau-ne de 3 jours avant l'apparition des aberrations du comportement.
Recombinant IL–12 prevents formation of blocking IgA antibodies to recombinant adenovirus and allows repeated gene therapy to mouse lung

Enthusiasm for the use of recombinant adenoviruses in gene therapy has been tempered by the problematic immune responses that develop to the virus and virus-infected cells. Humoral immune responses to the input viral proteins generate neutralizing antibodies that thwart attempts to effectively administer the therapy more than once. Previous studies in murine models of gene therapy for cystic fibrosis (CF) have shown that the formation of adenoviral antibodies of the IgA subtype, a process that is dependent on T helper cells of the TH2 subset, contributes to a block in gene transfer that occurs following a second administration of virus. We show in this report that coadministration of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) (or interleukin-12, which activates TH1 cells to secrete IFN-gamma) with the recombinant adenovirus into the airway of C57BL/6 mice diminishes the activation of TH2 cells and formation of neutralizing antibody, allowing for efficient readministration of recombinant virus. This suggests a strategy for gene therapy of CF in which administration of a short-acting immune modulator at the time of gene therapy may be sufficient to overcome the problems of humoral immunity.