cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Achieving excellence in communications: A key to developing complete, accurate and shared information requirements

After 25 years of experience building Computer-Based Information Systems, we still seem to have plenty of problems. A major cause of these problems is incomplete and/or inaccurate specifications (i.e., functional specifications or logical design) of requirements. Inadequate specifications reflect ineffective communication transactions between system users and developers. The ability of system developers and users to develop a shared (i.e., clearly understood by both parties), complete and accurate model of the current and desired (i.e., requirements) systems is the key to a successful implementation. Although recently a number of techniques have emerged to facilitate requirements definition (e.g. structured design methodologies), the key remains effective communication between system developers and users. In this paper we are introducing a generalized communication model called PRECISION which quickly and accurately establishes “shared” models or maps. We also discuss preliminary research findings which describe the success of the PRECISION Model in eliciting information requirements. Our findings indicate that the use of this model would greatly increase the ability of both systems developers and users to create shared, complete and accurate requirement specifications.
Molecular and Cellular Determinants of Estrogen Receptor α Expression

Critical roles for estrogens in growth and development and in pathological conditions of bone, breast, and uterus are well established. Estrogens and estrogen receptor modulators bind to estrogen receptor α (ERα) and/or ERβ to form discrete molecular complexes that exert pleiotropic tissue-specific effects by modulating the expression of target genes. Ligand-bound ER functions as a key transcription factor in various molecular pathways, and modulation of ER expression levels is important in determining cellular growth potential. Recent advances have begun to illuminate the mechanisms by which cells control ER expression. Kos et al. reviewed the genomic organization of the human ERα gene promoter region (31). The human ERα gene, located on chromosome 6, was cloned in 1986 and spans approximately 300 kb; its eight coding regions are transcribed from at least seven promoters (31). Considering the complexity of the ER promoter, it is not surprising that numerous factors affect ERα expression. The aim of this paper is to review the molecular mechanisms by which various cellular factors modulate ERα expression. We have focused on highlighting the major players, including effectors of chromatin structure, hormones, and other relevant agents, and limited our discussion to findings in human systems. There are vast qualitative and quantitative data regarding whether or not, and to what extent, ERα is expressed in normal and neoplastic tissues; this topic is beyond the scope of this review and will not be covered. Moreover, little is currently known about the role of specific transcription factors in ER expression, and these factors will be mentioned only briefly. Henceforth, the terms ERα and ER will be used interchangeably; expression of ERβ will not be discussed.
Gravitational-wave observations as a tool for testing relativistic gravity

Approaches regarding the role of gravitational wave observations in the investigation of relativistic theories of gravity are treated as providing greater potential in the prediction of wave propagation speed and the polarization properties of gravitational waves. The invariant classes of waves discussed have the same post-Newtonian limit as general relativity for a reasonable choice of cosmological models.
Development of a waterborne challenge model for Flavobacterium psychrophilum.

Flavobacterium psychrophilum is the causative agent of bacterial coldwater disease and can cause significant mortality in salmonid aquaculture. To better evaluate disease prevention or treatment methods for F. psychrophilum in the laboratory, a waterborne challenge model that mimics a natural outbreak is needed. Here we report on the development of a waterborne challenge model for F. psychrophilum in which we incorporated variables that may influence challenge success: specifically, scarification prior to bacterial exposure and culture of F. psychrophilum under iron-limited culture conditions to potentially increase the probability of establishing disease. Additionally, two F. psychrophilum strains, CSF 259-93 and THC 02-90, were used in this model to test whether there were virulence differences between strains. Mortality was significantly higher in scarred fish than unscarred fish (81.5 vs. 19.4%), supporting the hypothesis that disruptions in the dermal layer enhance mortality in F. psychrophilum waterborne challenges. Although mortality differences were not significant between iron-replete and iron-limited treatments, mortality was high overall (> 30%). There was a significant difference in mortality between CSF 259-93 and THC 02-90 treatments, although both strains caused high mortality in injection challenges. In conclusion, this waterborne challenge model can be used to evaluate potential disease prevention and treatment methods.
Clinical Factors Associated With Development of Severe-Complicated Clostridium difficile Infection

Background & Aims Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) can cause life-threatening complications. Severe-complicated CDI is characterized by hypotension, shock, sepsis, ileus, megacolon, and colon perforation. We created a model to identify clinical factors associated with severe-complicated CDI. Methods We analyzed data from 1446 inpatient cases of CDI (48.6% female; median age, 62.5 years; range, 0.1−103.7 years) at the Mayo Clinic from June 28, 2007, to June 25, 2010. Patients with severe-complicated CDI (n = 487) were identified as those who required admission to the intensive care unit or colectomy, or died, within 30 days of CDI diagnosis. Logistic regression models were used to identify variables that were independently associated with the occurrence of severe-complicated CDI in 2 cohorts. One cohort comprised all hospitalized patients; the other comprised a subset of these inpatients who were residents of Olmsted County, Minnesota to assess the association of comorbid conditions with the development of severe-complicated infection in a population-based cohort. The linear combinations of variables identified by using logistic regression models provided scores to predict the risk of developing severe-complicated CDI. Results In a multivariable model that included all inpatients, increasing age, leukocyte count >15 × 10 9 /L, increase in serum level of creatinine >1.5-fold from baseline, and use of proton pump inhibitors or narcotic medications were independently associated with severe-complicated CDI. In the secondary analysis, which included only patients from Olmsted County, comorbid conditions were not significantly associated with severe-complicated CDI. Conclusions Older age, high numbers of leukocytes in blood samples, an increased serum level of creatinine, gastric acid suppression, and use of narcotic medications were independently associated with development of severe-complicated CDI in hospitalized patients. Early aggressive monitoring and intervention could improve outcomes.
The effect of temperature on colonization of Cercosporidium personatum leafspot of peanuts by the hyperparasite Dicyma pulvinata

Abstract Colonization of lesions of Cercosporidium personatum on detached peanut leaflets by the hyperparasite Dicyma pulvinata followed a logistic growth curve. The initial colonization rate and the asymptotic level of colonization were estimated by plotting the calculated relative rate of colonization against the percentage colonization. These two parameters and a subjective estimate of the time-lag in colonization were used to compare colonization of lesions, in the dark, by the hyperparasite at constant and cycling temperature regimes. No colonization was observed at constant temperatures ⩾31.5°C. The time-lag in colonization increased and the asymptotic level declined markedly at constant temperatures >28°C. At cycling temperature regimes, the initial colonization rate and the asymptotic level of colonization were directly related to the difference between maximum and minimum temperatures, especially at maximum temperatures >28°C.
Regulation of Sodium Channel Gene Expression by Transcriptional Silencing

Fast electrical signaling in the nervous system is mediated by action potentials. The type II Na channel often is responsible for the generation of action potentials in the mammalian central nervous s
The mechanics of failure of silicon carbide fiber-reinforced glass-matrix composites

Abstract Tensile and bending tests have been performed on a high-strength silicon carbide fiber-reinforced glass-matrix (LAS) composite. The experimental results indicate that the strength of the composite component is strongly dependent on the geometry and loading. A model of failure is developed which allows a uniform interpretation of the experiments when due account is taken of the strength of the matrix, the statistical nature of the properties of the fibers, and the dimension of the fiber pull-out length.
Direct solutions for Poisson's equation in three dimensions

Abstract Two-dimensional Poisson problems are commonly solved by one of three direct methods: cyclic reduction (CR), Fourier analysis (FA), or a combination of FA and CR (FACR). It has been shown that FACR requires the least amount of computation and CR the most. All of these methods employ one-dimensional solvers embedded in the algorithms for solving the two-dimensional problem. These methods can be used to solve three-dimensional systems if the one-dimensional solver is replaced with a two-dimensional solver. In three dimensions FACR and FA require almost the same number of operations if the two-dimensional solver is FACR. Further, the three-dimensional CR using CR to solve the two-dimensional systems requires a much larger number of operations in comparison with any of the other approaches considered. This information is illustrated using a staggered grid with Neumann boundary conditions. The operation counts for this problem are derived so that they are applicable even if the number of mesh points in any direction is small. The FFT algorithm required when using FA is presented. The FA algorithm is simpler to code than FACR. A comparison of run times between CR and FA (using CR to solve the two-dimensional systems) is given for several mesh sizes. The results agree with the operation count comparisons. Some input-output considerations for coding problems which require auxiliary storage are also discussed.
Improved cryoEM-Guided Iterative Molecular Dynamics--Rosetta Protein Structure Refinement Protocol for High Precision Protein Structure Prediction.

Many excellent methods exist that incorporate cryo-electron microscopy (cryoEM) data to constrain computational protein structure prediction and refinement. Previously, it was shown that iteration of two such orthogonal sampling and scoring methods – Rosetta and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations – facilitated exploration of conformational space in principle. Here, we go beyond a proof-of-concept study and address significant remaining limitations of the iterative MD–Rosetta protein structure refinement protocol. Specifically, all parts of the iterative refinement protocol are now guided by medium-resolution cryoEM density maps, and previous knowledge about the native structure of the protein is no longer necessary. Models are identified solely based on score or simulation time. All four benchmark proteins showed substantial improvement through three rounds of the iterative refinement protocol. The best-scoring final models of two proteins had sub-Angstrom RMSD to the native structure over residues in secondary structure elements. Molecular dynamics was most efficient in refining secondary structure elements and was thus highly complementary to the Rosetta refinement which is most powerful in refining side chains and loop regions.
Pressure-induced rotational energy transfer in H2CO Ã 1A2 v4 = 1: Dipolar M-dependence with no single-collision elastic contribution

Abstract We have performed a series of measurements on H2CO A 1 A 2 v 4 = 1 single rotational levels using Transient Gain Spectroscopy (TGS), which was designed to provide detailed information on state-to-state population transfer and on the relaxation and transfer of rotational alignment. Measurements of the time dependence of the population of the directly populated JKa,Kc = 10,1 level, and of the population that is collisionally transferred to the neighboring 00,0, 20,2, and 30,3 rotational levels, are performed with both parallel and perpendicular relative PUMP/PROBE polarizations. This procedure allows the rotational-state-resolved populations to be analyzed with a microscopic M-resolved kinetic model at a level of detail unprecedented for a polyatomic molecule. Our analysis is able to distinguish direct, single-collision dealignment from sequential processes that result in dealignment. Nonlinear fitting of these data with a number of kinetic models indicates that there is no detectable contribution from single-collision direct-elastic events to the observed dealignment signals, and that dealignment may be accurately modeled by sequential processes following electric-dipole a-dipole selection rules. Furthermore, state-to-state inelastic rates are found to partition into MJ-resolved collisional transfer rates according to tensor opacity rank Λ = 1 (electric-dipole amplitudes), with no detectable contribution from Λ = 2 or Λ = 3. Tensor opacity rank Λ = 1 produces the greatest persistence of the MJ quantum number consistent with collisions in an isotropic environment, and this high level of MJ conservation is necessary to explain our data. An Energy-Corrected Sudden (ECS) scaling model, with collision duration τc = 7.0 psec, and basis rate coefficient k0←1 = 26.6(5) μsec−1 Torr−1 provides an excellent representation of the observed energy transfer, with no detectable contribution from higher order terms, or from terms deviating from ECS scaling.
The Importance of the Community Context in the Epidemiology of Early Adolescent Substance Use and Delinquency in a Rural Sample

Considerable research has demonstrated that substance use and delinquency during early adolescence can have long-term negative health consequences. As the correlates of these behaviors cross levels and contexts, it is likely that a social ecological approach will provide insight to inform community prevention. This approach informs the present study, which focuses on developing a multiple-method measurement strategy to examine associations among community risks, resources, and rates of early adolescent substance use and delinquency in 28 rural and small town communities. Measures include five domains of community risk, four domains of community resources, and population rates of early adolescent substance use and delinquency. Results demonstrated that several measures of context were significantly associated with community rates of adolescent substance use and delinquency, and different risks and resources appear important for different outcomes. Multiple associations were curvilinear, and interactions may also be important. Findings suggest that it may be worthwhile to create and test new intervention strategies that target community factors in the pursuit of prevention.
Development and Use of the Documentation Design Aid

In aviation maintenance and inspection, work documents are critical to safety, as they act as both production control devices and job aids for mechanics and inspectors. Based on an analysis of the current state of documentation in aviation maintenance, there was a clear need to help document designers/writers utilize good human factors practice. Design guidelines were developed and tested (Patel et al, 1994) and then made accessible through a Visual Basic window, called the Documentation Design Aid or DDA, available on-screen while writing a procedure. This DDA was tested for usability by writers and for comprehension of the documents produced. A number of different evaluations showed that the DDA reduced comprehension errors significantly. The DDA is now available via a WWW site for users to download and use.
Laparoscopic Magnetic Sphincter Augmentation vs Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication: A Matched-Pair Analysis of 100 Patients

Background The efficacy and safety of magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) with the LINX device (Torax Medical) has been reported in several short-and long-term studies, rivaling historic results of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF), but with fewer side effects. However, there have been no studies comparing patients with similar disease to validate these results. Study Design We conducted a retrospective analysis of 1-year outcomes of patients undergoing MSA and LNF from June 2010 to June 2013. Patients were matched using propensity scores incorporating multiple preoperative variables. Outcomes were measured by GERD Health Related Quality of Life scores, proton-pump inhibitor use, satisfaction, and complications. Results One hundred and seventy-nine patients met inclusion criteria, 62 MSA and 117 LNF. Propensity score matching identified 50 patients in both groups using the "best-fit" model with a caliper of 0.5 SD. At 1 year after surgery, both groups had similar GERD Health Related Quality of Life scores (4.2 MSA and 4.3 LNF; p = 0.897) and proton-pump inhibitor use (17% of MSA and 8.5% of LNF; p = 0.355). Although there was no difference in the number of patients reporting mild gas and bloating (27.6% MSA and 27.6% LNF; p = 1.000), there were no patients with severe gas and bloating in the MSA group compared with 10.6% in the LNF group (p = 0.022). More LNF patients were unable to belch (8.5% of MSA and 25.5% of LNF; p = 0.028) or vomit (4.3% of MSA and 21.3% of LNF; p = 0.004). The incidence of postoperative dysphagia was similar between the groups (46.8% MSA and 44.7% LNF; p = 0.766). Conclusions Analogous GERD patients had similar control of reflux symptoms after both MSA and LNF. The inabilities to belch and vomit were significantly fewer with MSA, along with a significantly lower incidence of severe gas–bloat symptoms. These results support the use of MSA as first-line therapy in patients with mild to moderate GERD.
Terrestrial record of Laurentide Ice Sheet reorganization during Heinrich events

The glacial stratigraphy and geomorphology of the western Lake Superior region record a complex sequence of late Wisconsinan ice advances and retreats of the Laurentide Ice Sheet from accumulation centers in Quebec and Hudson Bay. Geomorphic evidence indicates that three major late Wisconsinan events occurred, each marked by gradual buildup of ice, formation of a prominent moraine, and subsequent rapid ice retreat. The established radiocarbon chronology indicates that these three events culminated ca. 23–21, 16–15.5, and 13 14C ka, indicating that major glacial advances culminated immediately prior to Heinrich events H-2 and H-1, and that ice underwent rapid retreat during Heinrich events. The possible linkage between western Lake Superior region ice dynamics and Heinrich events is supported by the presence of indicator rock types in drift associated with each major glacial recession. These indicators suggest that progressive southward shifts of the Laurentide Ice Sheet ice divide accompanied each rapid glacial recession. Furthermore, lithologic evidence indicates that there were two episodes of ice divide shifts: one ∼400–600 km occurring during H-2, and a smaller shift occurring during H-1.
MicroRNAs: a developing story

Considering the intense genetic efforts applied to understanding development, it is surprising that a relatively large class of regulatory genes has newly surfaced. The first microRNA gene and its developmental role were described more than ten years ago, but only recently have we fully appreciated the broad and abundant presence of such genes. MicroRNAs are ∼22 nucleotide RNAs that use antisense complementarity to inhibit expression of specific mRNAs. Recent studies of restricted expression patterns and functional roles have implicated specific microRNAs in complex genetic pathways regulating embryogenesis, hematopoiesis, neuronal differentiation and Hox-mediated development.
Linear object in the ascending aorta discovered on routine transesophageal echocardiography for coronary artery bypass graft surgery.

From the Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York, NY. Address reprint requests to Andrey Apinis, MD, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Department of Anesthesiology, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY 10029. E-mail: andrey.apinis@mountsinai.org © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. 1053-0770/2505-0031$36.00/0 doi:10.1053/j.jvca.2010.04.016
Pityriasis Rotunda : two cases in black Americans

Pityriasis rotunda is an uncommon cutaneous disorder consisting of asymptomatic, perfectly circular, scaling plaques on the trunk and extremities. Histopathologic findings are consistent with ichthyosis vulgaris. The majority of cases are seen in association with an underlying disease, and most authors believe that this entity represents a form of acquired ichthyosis. Previous cases have been restricted to certain geographic and ethnic groups (most commonly Japanese and South African Bantu). We report two cases of pithyriasis rotunda, both occurring in black Americans. We believe that these are the first reported cases seen in Americans.
The eigenscrew decomposition of spatial stiffness matrices

A manipulator system is modeled as a kinematically unconstrained rigid body suspended by elastic devices. The structure of spatial stiffness is investigated by evaluating the stiffness matrix "primitives"-the rank-1 matrices that compose a spatial stiffness matrix. Although the decomposition of a rank-2 or higher stiffness matrix into the sum of rank-1 matrices is not unique, one property of the set of matrices is conserved. This property, defined as the stiffness-coupling index, identifies how the translational and rotational components of the stiffness are related. Here, we investigate the stiffness-coupling index of the rank-1 matrices that compose a spatial stiffness matrix. We develop a matrix decomposition that yields a set of rank-1 stiffness matrices that identifies the bounds on the stiffness-coupling index for any decomposition. This decomposition, referred to as the eigenscrew decomposition, is shown to be invariant in coordinate transformation. With this decomposition, we provide some physical insight into the behavior associated with a general spatial stiffness matrix.
Messenger ribonucleic acid for the lipoprotein of the Escherichia coli outer membrane is polyadenylated.

Abstract Earlier studies had shown that a large portion of bacterial messenger RNA carries 3′-terminal polyadenylate sequences, albeit of somewhat shorter length than those associated with eukaryotic mRNA. In this paper, we show for the first time that a specific prokaryotic mRNA is polyadenylated. Three independent lines of evidence demonstrate that a 3′-terminal polyadenylate sequence 10 to 15 nucleotides in length is associated with about 40% of the mRNA of the outer membrane lipoprotein of Escherichia coli : (1) 40% of lipoprotein mRNA binds to oligodeoxythymidylate-substituted cellulose at high ionic strength and is eluted by water; (2) treatment of lipoprotein mRNA with oligodeoxythymidylate and ribonuclease H destroys its ability to bind to oligodeoxythymidylate-cellulose; and (3) in the presence of oligodeoxythymidylate, lipoprotein mRNA can serve as template for the synthesis of DNA complementary to lipoprotein mRNA by reverse transcriptase. In view of the fact that the lpp gene and its downstream-flanking region contain no continuous deoxyadenylate sequences longer than five nucleotides, the polyadenylate moiety must be added post-transcriptionally. It was possible to demonstrate the synthesis of polyadenylated lipoprotein mRNA in toluene-permeabilized cells of E. coli , opening the way for the study of its biosynthesis.
The intellectual and social organization of ASA 1990– 1997: Exploring the interface between the discipline of sociology and its practitioners

This article examines patterns of joint membership in ASA sections and analyzes the resulting section clusters in order to ultimately assess the present state of the disci-pline and unearth the organizational structure underlying intellectual and profes-sional currents. Previous empirical findings regarding the structure of sociology in the 1980s are largely confirmed for sociology in the 1990s. Despite a 41 percent increase in the number of ASA sections between 1990 and 1997, I find remarkable stability in the interpretation of clusters of sections, a fact that provides an updated empirical basis for the assessment of internal debates within the discipline and sug-gests future structural trends.
Unique relations among anxiety sensitivity factors and anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation

Anxiety sensitivity (AS) is composed of three lower-order dimensions, cognitive concerns, physical concerns, and social concerns. We examined the relations between AS dimensions using a more adequate assessment of subscales (ASI-3) than has previously been used, and measures of anxiety and mood disorders as well as suicidal ideation in a sample of 256 (M age = 37.10 years, SD = 16.40) treatment-seeking individuals using structural equation modeling. AS cognitive concerns was uniquely associated with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), major depressive disorder (MDD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and suicidal ideation. AS physical concerns was uniquely associated with OCD, social anxiety disorder (SAD), panic disorder (PD), and specific phobia. AS social concerns was uniquely associated with SAD, GAD, OCD, and MDD. These results highlight the importance of considering the lower-order AS dimensions when examining the relations between AS and psychopathology.
The link between religion and HAART adherence in pediatric HIV patients.

Abstract HIV is a chronic illness that requires strict adherence to medication regimens. This study attempts to examine the patterns of highly active antiretroviral therapy adherence relative to religious beliefs in a population of perinatally HIV-infected adolescents. Eligible subjects included perinatally HIV-infected youth aged 14–22 years who knew their HIV status. Assessment tools included an antiretroviral adherence form, a standardized depression questionnaire, and a religious observance questionnaire. All of these forms were completed at the time of study enrollment. Twenty subjects met entry criteria and were enrolled. Subjects who had excellent adherence had significantly higher religious belief scores than those who had poor adherence (3.46±0.46 vs. 2.34±0.69, p<0.05). Those with excellent adherence also had higher religious practice scores than those with poor adherence (2.66±1.02 vs. 2.23±1.45, p=0.46). Beck Depression Inventory (BDI)-II depression score was also lower in those with excellent...
Laser-Induced kinetics of cytochrome oxidation and the 518 mμ absorption change in spinach leaves and chloroplasts

Abstract The Q-switched ruby laser has been used to oxidize cytochrome f in several types of intact leaves and the isolated chloroplasts. The halftimes for intact leaf range from 60 to 150 μsec. The cytochrome f oxidation rates observed in chloroplasts are from 3 to 100 times slower than the rates in leaves, depending on the type of leaf. A varying intactness of the chlorophyll-cytochrome f relationship in chloroplasts, depending on the type of plant, has been postulated. The temperature dependence and quantum yield of cytochrome f oxidation has been studied. In addition, the 518 mμ absorption change has been compared in leaves and chloroplasts.
Welcome to papers from the Fifth International Symposium on Dinosaur Eggs and Babies

This issue of Historical Biology consists of research papers stemming from the Fifth International Symposium on Dinosaur Eggs and Babies held at the Zhejiang Museum of Natural History (ZMNH), in Ha...
Isomorphism between cell and human languages: molecular biological, bioinformatic and linguistic implications

Abstract The concept of cell language has been defined in molecular terms. The molecule-based cell language is shown to be isomorphic with the sound- and visual signal-based human language with respect to ten out of the 13 design features of human language characterized by Hockett. Biocybernetics, a general molecular theory of living systems developed over the past two and a half decades, is found to provide a physical theory underlying the phenomenon of cell language. The concept of cell language integrates bioenergetics and bioinformatics on the one hand and reductionistic and holistic experimental data on the other to account for living processes on the molecular level. The isomorphism between cell and human languages suggests that the DNA of higher eucaryotes contains two classes of genes—structural genes corresponding to the lexicon and `spatiotemporal genes' corresponding to the grammar of cell language. The former is located in coding regions of DNA and the latter is predicted to reside primarily in noncoding regions. The grammar of cell language is identified with the mapping of the nucleotide sequences of DNA onto its 4-dimensional folding patterns that control the spatiotemporal evolution of gene expression. Such a mapping has been referred to as the second genetic code, in contrast to the first genetic code which maps nucleotide triplets onto amino acids. The cell language theory introduces into biology the linguistic principle of `rule-governed creativity,' leading to the formulation of the concept of `rule-governed creative molecules' or `creatons.' This concept sheds new light on molecular biology, bioinformatics, protein folding, and developmental biology. In addition, the cell language theory suggests that human language is ultimately founded on cell language.
GENETIC CONTROL OF CELLULAR SUSCEPTIBILITY TO PSEUDOTYPES OF ROUS SARCOMA VIRUS.

Abstract The susceptibility of chicken cells to infection either by Rous sarcoma virus (RSV) bearing an outer coat derived from the helper virus RAV 2, or by RAV 2 itself, is determined by a single pair of autosomal genes. Susceptibility to infection by either the RSV pseudotype or the cognate helper leukosis virus is dominant over resistance. The gene has no influence on the susceptibility of cells to infection either by RSV with a RAV 1 coat, or by RAV 1 itself. Since the expression of the gene for cellular susceptibility is contingent on the nature of the outer coat of the virus, it seems likely that the gene controls a component of the cell surface which is involved in virus adsorption or penetration.
No Grist for Mill on Natural Kinds

According to the standard narrative, natural kind is a technical notion that was introduced by John Stuart Mill in the 1840s and the recent craze for natural kinds, launched by Putnam and Kripke, is a continuation of that tradition. I argue that the standard narrative is mistaken. The Millian tradition of kinds was not particularly influential in the 20th century, and the Putnam-Kripke revolution did not clearly engage with even the remnants that were left of it. The presently active tradition of natural kinds is less than half a century old. Recognizing this might help us better appreciate both Mill and natural kinds.
Reappraisal of the Javanese Bullfrog complex, Kaloula baleata (Müller, 1836) (Amphibia: Anura: Microhylidae), reveals a new species from Peninsular Malaysia.

A new species of Narrow-mouthed frog of the genus Kaloula is described from northern Peninsular Malaysia. Kaloula latidisca sp. nov. is genetically and morphologically most similar to K. baleata and K. indochinensis but differs from those and other congeners by the unique combination of the following characters: (1) adult males SVL 49.2–56.2 mm (x=53.5 ± 3.0; N=4); (2) finger tips expanded into large, transversely expanded discs (disc width 2.8–3.1 mm, x=3.0 ± 0.1); (3) inner metatarsal tubercle large, oval, distinctly raised, slightly shorter than first toe; (4) three subarticular tubercles on fourth toe; (5) toe webbing formula: I 1–2 II 1–3 III 2–3.5 IV 4–2 V; and (6) yellow to orange irregularly shaped patch on the axillary, inguinal and posterior region of thigh.
Genomic mapping of chemokine and transforming growth factor genes in swine

Five chemokine genes, transforming growth factors alpha, beta 2 and 3 (TGFBA, TGFB-2, and TGFB-3), interleukin 8 (IL-8), and monocyte chemoattractant protein 2 (MCP-2), were mapped to porcine linkage groups on Chromosomes 3q, l0p, 7q, 8, and 12q, respectively. Restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs) for these genes were developed by Southern blot hybridization after digestion of porcine genomic DNA with BamHI and Mspl (TGFBA), BamHI and Pvull (TGFB-2), HindIII (TGFB-3), BglII (IL-8), and PstI (MCP-2) and used to genotype the USDA-MARC Swine Reference Population pigs. Sufficient informative meioses, 61 (TGFBA), 58 (TGFB-2), 28 (TGFB-3), 38 (IL-8), and 156 (MCP-2), were available to pursue two-point pairwise linkage analysis with over 1,000 existing loci in the USDA-MARC genome database to establish initial linkage (LOD > 3). Multi-point analysis with CRIMAP determined the most likely order for each new marker. The assignment of the five chemokine genes in swine concurs with previous porcine/human chromosomal homologies based on results from ZOO-FISH and chromosomal painting experiments. These findings add five new informative Type I markers within a single gene family to the swine genome and may help us understand the genetic basis for disease resistance in livestock.
Observations of the cellular structure of fuel-air detonations

Abstract Detonation cell widths, which provide a measure of detonability of a mixture, were measured for hydrocarbon–air and hydrogen–air–diluent mixtures. Results were obtained from a 0.43-m-diameter, 13.1-m-long heated detonation tube with an initial pressure of 101 kPa and an initial temperature between 25 and 100 °C. The cell widths of simple cyclic hydrocarbons are somewhat smaller than those of comparable straight-chain alkanes. Cyclic hydrocarbons tested generally had similar cell sizes despite differences in degree of bond saturation, bond strain energy, oxygen substitution, and chemical structure. There was a significant reduction in the cell width of octane, a straight-chain alkane, when it was mixed with small quantities of hexyl nitrate. The effect of a diluent, such as steam and carbon dioxide, on the cell width of a hydrogen–air mixture is shown over a wide range of mixture stoichiometries. The data illustrate the effects of initial temperature and pressure on the cell width when compared to previous studies. Not only is carbon dioxide more effective than steam at increasing the mixture cell width, but also its effectiveness increases relative to that of steam with increasing concentrations. The detonability limits, which are dependent on the facility geometry and type of initiator used in this study, were measured for fuel-lean and fuel-rich hydrogen–air mixtures and stoichiometric hydrogen–air mixtures diluted with steam. The detonability limits are nominally at the flammability limits for hydrogen–air mixtures. The subcellular structure within a fuel-lean hydrogen–air detonation cell was recorded using a sooted foil. The uniform fine structure of the self-sustained transverse wave and the irregular structure of the overdriven lead shock wave are shown at the triple point path that marks the boundary between detonation cells.
Apparatus for Low Temperature Study of the Raman Effect

A simple modification of a conventional excitation unit for the Raman effect is described that allows study of the effect in liquids at temperatures down to about −150°C. The chief feature of the arrangement is a Dewar-jacketed sleeve that fits around the Raman tube and enables the cooling of the tube by a flow of cold nitrogen gas. By adjustment of the temperature of the gas and its rate of flow, easy and precise control of the temperature of the Raman tube can be obtained. It is also possible to use elevated temperatures (up to +150°C) by heating the nitrogen. The advantages of the system are its simplicity, ease of operation, rapidity of change from low temperature to normal operation, and vice-versa, and the same intensity of illumination as that afforded by room-temperature operation.
Measurement of the lipophorin titer in the larval hemolymph of the southwestern corn borer, Diatraea grandiosella, by ELISA

Abstract An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was developed to measure the lipophorin titer in the hemolymph of the southwestern corn borer, Diatraea grandiosella . Results obtained using indirect and direct ELISA methods were compared. The indirect ELISA was then used to compare the lipophorin titers in the hemolymph of non-diapause, pre-diapause, and diapause larvae. The mean lipophorin titer in the hemolymph of non-diapause larvae was 2.5 mg/ml in fourth instar larvae and increased to 3.9 mg/ml during the fifth and sixth instars. The mean lipophorin titer in the hemolymph of pre-diapause larvae was 2.3 mg/ml in 13 day old larvae and increased to 4.0 mg/ml in 22 day old larvae. The mean titer then decreased significantly until day 40, but increased to 5.1 mg/ml in 49 day old larvae after they had entered diapause and held at c . 3 mg/ml until larvae were about 70 days old, when it increased to c . 5 mg/ml and remained constant for at least the next 20 days. The amount of lipid in the hemolymph was also measured and correlated to the amount of lipophorin present.
The fracture toughness and fatigue crack propagation behaviour of annealed PET

Abstract The fracture toughness of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) is correlated with various morphologies produced upon annealing. Annealing PET at a Hoffman regime III crystallization temperature (120°C) or inducing solid-state polymerization result in materials of high fracture toughness ( K c = 8.7 MPa m 1 2 and 9.5 MPa m 1 2 , respectively); these high toughness values are related to multiple-crazing mechanisms produced by high tie-molecule densities. Annealing fully dried PET at 200°C transforms the material to a Hoffman regime I/II structure, and the fracture toughness decreases to 6.5 MPa m 1 2 . Hydrolysis also reduces the fracture toughness ( K c MPa m 1 2 ). In these low toughness materials, multiple crazing is not observed. In addition, the fatigue crack propagation response of PET is found to be superior in samples annealed to produce high fracture toughness as compared with samples annealed to produce low fracture toughness values.
Identification of class of services in the Internet and a proposed approach to traffic prioritization at layer 3

The Differentiated Services architecture represents a highly scalable architecture for deployment of Quality of Services across the next-generation Internet. The Differentiated Services enable the packets that pass through network devices operating on layer 3 information, such as routers, to have their relative priority differentiated from one another. With Differentiated Services marking, Layer 3 devices can establish aggregated precedence-based queues and provide better service (when packet service is subject to queuing, as is the case under significant traffic loads) to packets that have higher relative priority. Though the Differentiated Services filled in the Internet Protocol header serves the purpose of identification of different kinds of traffic and aggregating traffic with similar Quality of Services requirements into classes, it may practically pose challenges when getting deployed on a large scale network. These challenges include: a) Differentiated services handling large amount of traffic focused on differentiating different kinds of traffic rather than analyzing who generated the traffic. b) Differentiated Service based switching is with the management of actual service response, which an end node receives. The primary purpose of this paper is to identify these shortcomings related to prioritization of traffic based on the Internet Protocol header's Differentiated Services field at the routers in a large scale network and to propose a unique solution by using the MPLS and some rule sets to help overcome these shortcomings.
Recombinational crossroads: Eukaryotic enzymes and the limits of bacterial precedents

Biochemical form is shaped by biological function. Biochemical investigation of enzymes involved in eukaryotic homologous genetic recombination now is progressing rapidly, having only recently been inaugurated with the study of Rad51 protein, a homolog of the bacterial RecA protein. A significant new front is opened with the first report on the in vitro activities of a second and meiosis-specific RecA homolog, the human Dmc1 protein (1). Results on Rad51 and Dmc1 to date have yielded a number of surprises in the form of some intriguing and perhaps unanticipated differences with respect to the RecA protein. Pondering biochemical differences must inevitably bring one back to a fundamental question: why do cells recombine DNA?
Effects of upright posture and exercise on pulmonary hemodynamics in patients with central cardiovascular shunts.

Previous hemodynamic studies of patients with septal defects, or patent ductus arteriosus, have been made with the patient recumbent in the horizontal posture. Our studies indicate unexpected changes in pulmonary blood flow with the upright posture, and often further increments in flow during walking that are different from those reported for exercise in recumbency. It is suggested that such defects reveal the complexity of factors regulating preferential flow under these circumstances.
Direct to consumer advertising's effect on medical students: the case of fibromyalgia.

Dear SirWe performed a study to assess the role of direct to consumer advertising (DTCA) in medical students’ understanding of fibromyalgia (FM). A brief questionnaire was given to medical students...
Concise Review: Optimizing Expansion of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells for Clinical Applications

Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) have demonstrated success in the clinical treatment of hematopoietic pathologies and cardiovascular disease and are the focus of treating other diseases of the musculoskeletal, digestive, integumentary, and nervous systems. However, during the requisite two-dimensional (2D) expansion to achieve a clinically relevant number of cells, MSCs exhibit profound degeneration in progenitor potency. Proliferation, multilineage potential, and colony-forming efficiency are fundamental progenitor properties that are abrogated by extensive monolayer culture. To harness the robust therapeutic potential of MSCs, a consistent, rapid, and minimally detrimental expansion method is necessary. Alternative expansion efforts have exhibited promise in the ability to preserve MSC progenitor potency better than the 2D paradigm by mimicking features of the native bone marrow niche. MSCs have been successfully expanded when stimulated by growth factors, under reduced oxygen tension, and in three-dimensional bioreactors. MSC therapeutic value can be optimized for clinical applications by combining system inputs to tailor culture parameters for recapitulating the niche with probes that nondestructively monitor progenitor potency. The purpose of this review is to explore how modulations in the 2D paradigm affect MSC progenitor properties and to highlight recent efforts in alternative expansion techniques.
AN AROMATIC L-AMINO ACID DECARBOXYLASE INHIBITOR BLOCKS L-DOPA-INDUCED AIR-STEPPING IN NEONATAL RATS

Rat pups suspended in air and administered L-DOPA engage in a locomotor behavior termed air-stepping. The role of L-DOPA itself was investigated by administering several doses of an aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase inhibitor, NSD 1015, prior to 100 mg/kg L-DOPA to 5-day-old rats. NSD 1015 dose-dependently increased the latency to onset and decreased the duration of L-DOPA-induced air-stepping. Thus L-DOPA induces air-stepping only after its conversion to dopamine and/or noradrenaline.
Assessment and Characterization of Volcanic Ash Threat to Gas Turbine Engine Performance

Multiple volcanoes erupt yearly propelling volcanic ash into the atmosphere and creating an aviation hazard. The plinian eruption type is most likely to create a significant aviation hazard. Plinian eruptions can eject large quantities of fine ash up to an altitude of 50,000 m (164,000 feet). While large airborne particles rapidly fall, smaller particles at reduced concentrations drift for days to weeks as they gradually descend and deposit on the ground. Very small particles, less than 1 μm, can remain aloft for years.An average of three aircraft encounters with volcanic ash was reported every year between 1973 and 2003. Of these, 8 resulted in some loss of engine power, including a complete shutdown of all four engines on a Boeing 747. However, no crashes have been attributed to volcanic ash. The major forms of engine damage caused by volcanic ash are:1. Deposition of ash on turbine nozzles and blades due to glassification2. Erosion of compressor and turbine blades3. Carbon deposits on fuel nozzlesThe combination of these effects can push the engine to surge and flame out. If a flame out occurs, engine restart may be possible.Less serious engine damage can also occur. In most cases the major damage will require an engine overhaul long before the minor damage becomes an operational issue, but under some conditions no sign of volcanic ash is evident and the turbine cooling system blockage could go unnoticed until an engine inspection is performed.Several organizations provide aircrew procedures to respond to encounters with a volcanic ash cloud. If a volcanic ash encounter is suspected, then an engine inspection, including borescope, should be performed with particular attention given to the turbine cooling system.Copyright © 2013 by Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada
Rates of chemical denudation of silicate rocks in tropical catchments

CHEMICAL denudation includes the set of processes which mobilise ions from rocks and carry them to the sea in solution. These processes, and the rates at which they act, are of considerable importance in the development of landforms and soils because they are responsible for weakening rocks which then become susceptible to soil formation and erosion. However, very few adequate measurements of such rates have been made. I report here a set of such measurements from tropical catchments in Kenya. They are the first set of reported values that correctly measure the rate of chemical denudation in the tropics because they include only true denudation components1 rather than biogenic and atmospheric inputs. Even for temperate regions I am not aware of a set of such data over a range of climate from wet to dry. The data presented here indicate how chemical denudation varies over such a gradient.
Antenna placement for sensing buried objects by radio frequency lateral waves

In this paper, we investigate radio wave propagation in proximity to a planar air-ground interface for the purpose of analyzing and improving the sensing of objects buried in the ground. We consider non-resonant electrically small electric dipole antennas as well as moderately directional resonant electric dipole antennas, both of which are analyzed in a variety of configurations. The ground is modeled as a uniform dielectric of finite conductivity. Our findings suggest that transmitting from beneath the ground plane can introduce significantly more complex wave propagation in contrast to transmitting from above the ground plane, by allowing the lateral and ground wave to mix. We also find that a directional sensor located just above the ground with the beam steered parallel to the ground interface is a good choice for sensing buried objects at a lateral distance due to the low loss of the lateral wave near the interface.