cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
CONSEQUENCES OF AN ALLEE EFFECT IN THE INVASION OF A PACIFIC ESTUARY BY SPARTINA ALTERNIFLORA

Results from both a spatially explicit stochastic simulation model and a spatially implicit deterministic model show that a weak Allee effect can slow the spread of an invasive plant, Spartina alterniflora, in a Pacific Coast estuary. The mean rate of spread with the Allee effect is ∼19%; removing the Allee effect results in a mean rate of spread of ∼31%. Sensitivity analysis both with and without the Allee effect reveal that seedling establishment, inflorescence density, and outcrossed seed production are key factors determining invasion rate. When there is an Allee effect, the invasion rate is sensitive to variation in self-pollinated seed production. By structuring the population according to density classes instead of the more usual age or stage classes, the deterministic model demonstrates a novel way of representing density dependence and an Allee effect in population biology. This approach could be applied to model the population dynamics of any species that spreads from multiple foci and in which these foci later coalesce.
A Generalized Inverse Algorithm for Analysis of Experimental Designs in a Regression Framework

This paper describes a generalized inverse algorithm which has been embedded into a regression package to give a versatile experimental design-multiple regression program. It has been tested on a two-way unequal cell frequency design from Dixon and Massey (1969), a balanced randomized incomplete block design from Hicks (1964) and both a three-stage nested sampling design and a two-factor split plot design from Mendenhall (1968). In each case, the only differences in results were within rounding/truncation error limits.
"Disrupted" Historical Trajectories and Indigenous Agency: Rethinking Imperial Impact in Southeast Asian History

��� This article explores the intellectual dilemma of reconciling Southeast Asia’s imperial past and colonial legacy with the realities and validity of indigenous agency. By critiquing notions of disrupted historical trajectories, this paper attempts to move Southeast Asian studies away from reified and teleologically confining narratives of imperial determinism while simultaneously negotiating the risks associated with overly discursive and relativistic approaches to colonial pasts. In conclusion, the paper offers a unique perspective on historical inquiry, which offers an alternative to the strictures of teleological history.
Near-circularity of the error curve in Chebyshev approximation of solutions to a class of elliptic partial differential equations in the complex plane

Abstract Let Φ be an analytic solution of the Helmholtz equation [▿2 + F(r2)]Φ(r, θ)=0 on the open unit disk Δ that is continuous on the closure Δ. Let the function F(r2) be analytic and nonpositive on Δ. And, let Φ∗n be an approximation of Φ relative to an appropriate subspace of solutions whose restrictions to ∂Δ are polynomials of degree at most n. The error curve arises as the image of ∂Δ under the map Φ − Φ∗n. Geometric properties of the curve relating to the modulus and winding number characterize the best and near-best approximations. Among them are those when Φ∗n is the Chebyshev approximation, the curve is a near-perfect circle with winding number n+1. These attributes develop function-theoretically and lead to a constructive procedure for determining near-optimal approximations of Φ that are as close to best as the error curve is close to circular. Numerical examples are presented that are at least as accurate as the corresponding approximations of ez on Δ which arise in analytic function theory.
A note on path-dependent strain measures and strain jumps in Isotropie simple materials

Abstract It is shown here that the method often used for evaluating the discontinuity in various path-dependent strain measures for the idealized step-strain experiment leads to a violation of certain universal relations for isotropic simple fluids and solids. It is further shown how this difficulty can be avoided by a proper description of such discontinuities.
Background correction using dinucleotide affinities improves the performance of GCRMA

High-density short oligonucleotide microarrays are a primary research tool for assessing global gene expression. Background noise on microarrays comprises a significant portion of the measured raw data, which can have serious implications for the interpretation of the generated data if not estimated correctly. We introduce an approach to calculate probe affinity based on sequence composition, incorporating nearest-neighbor (NN) information. Our model uses position-specific dinucleotide information, instead of the original single nucleotide approach, and adds up to 10% to the total variance explained (R2) when compared to the previously published model. We demonstrate that correcting for background noise using this approach enhances the performance of the GCRMA preprocessing algorithm when applied to control datasets, especially for detecting low intensity targets. Modifying the previously published position-dependent affinity model to incorporate dinucleotide information significantly improves the performance of the model. The dinucleotide affinity model enhances the detection of differentially expressed genes when implemented as a background correction procedure in GeneChip preprocessing algorithms. This is conceptually consistent with physical models of binding affinity, which depend on the nearest-neighbor stacking interactions in addition to base-pairing.
Cystoscopy in the evaluation of benign prostatic hyperplasia

Cystoscopy has a limited role in the evaluation of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The examination is recommended in the evaluation of BPH patients with hematuria or a history of risk factors for urethral stricture. Available data suggest that bladder trabeculation in BPH is a predictor of the treatment outcome. Cytoscopy might be performed prior to invasive therapy to guide the urologist in choosing an operative approach.
Presence Over Time in Synchronous Communities of Inquiry

Abstract This study investigated the small-group, learner-led discussion process in synchronous discussions. Transcripts from online chats and face-to-face discussions were analyzed within the context of the Community of Inquiry framework to examine the relationship of teaching presence, social presence, and cognitive presence to one another and for evidence of changes in frequency of teaching, social, and cognitive presence over time. Findings suggest that social presence and cognitive presence are highly positively correlated and that teaching presence and social presence are moderately positively correlated in learner-led synchronous environments. The frequency of teaching, social, and cognitive presence did not change over time for either group. Findings also indicate that neither the group meeting online nor the group meeting face-to-face attained high levels of cognitive presence integration or resolution.
Sum rules for weak radiative decays of pseudoscalar mesons and the ratio FK / Fπ

By considering the matrix elements for weak radiative decays of π and K mesons, a set of sum rules involving the leptonic decay amplitudes Fπ and FK is obtained. Solving the sum rules with Weinberg's sum rule (gA12/mA12) + Fπ2 = = (gKA2/mKA2) + FK2, we find the ratio FK/Fπ expressible in terms of A1, KA, π and K meson masses and the axial-vector meson decay parameters δA1 and δKA. In a soft-meson limit where δA1 = δKA = −2.0, we obtain then the KSRF relation and the ratio KK/Fπ = 1 + 14 (mK2/mKA2) = 1.04. For the more physical values of δA1 and δKA, for example at δA1 = −0.8 and δKA = −1.4, the ratio FK/Fπ is found to be FK/Fπ = 1.23. The decay widths of A1+ → π+ + γ and KA+ → K+ + γ are also obtained in the present treatment.
What Are the Economic Consequences of Unplanned Readmissions After TKA

Background In 2009, the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) began penalizing hospitals with high rates of 30-day readmissions after hospitalizations for certain conditions. This policy will expand to include TKA in 2015.
Comparing different FRET techniques to measure clustering of receptor-ligand complexes in endocytic membranes

Here, we have investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying the dynamics of protein distribution within membranes using Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer Microscopy (FRET). We have developed a one-photon (1-P) and two-photon (2-P) FRET assay to differentiate between the clustered and random distribution of membrane-bound fluorophore-labeled receptor-ligand complexes. Our results demonstrate that polymeric IgA-receptor-ligand complexes are organized in clusters within apical endocytic membranes of polarized MDCK cells, since energy transfer efficiency (E%) levels are independent from acceptor fluorescence, a standard parameter to confirm clustered distribution. We also describe a second parameter: E% decreases with increasing unquenched donor fluorescence and unquenched donor:acceptor ratios, a phenomenon which we ascribe to some donors preventing others from interacting with an acceptor. We call this effect 'donor geometric exclusion.' Going beyond the determination of clustered vs. random distribution of protein complexes, mathematical models have been developed, tailored to large, tightly packed molecular clusters, estimating their local densities with an adjustable parameter 's.'
Combined effect of growth medium, age of cells and phase of sporulation on heat resistance and recovery of Hansenula anomala

Effects of two growth media, age of cells and phase of sporulation on heat resistance of Hansenula anomala were determined. Cells were grown on two solid media, McClary's acetate and V8 juice agars, at 21 ° C for 16 days. Heat resistance of cells was determined in 0.06 M potassium phosphate buffer at 48 ° C. Heat-stressed cells were plated on four recovery media: yeast extract-malt extract-peptone-glucose (YMPG), pH 7.0; YMPG, pH 3.5; YMPG containing 6% NaCl, pH 7.0; and YMPG containing 20% sucrose, pH 7.0. The composition of sporulation medium influenced the extent of sporulation and the relative heat resistance of sporulating cells. One-day-old cells were the most sensitive to heat. The heat resistance of cells was generally increased as the incubation time was extended to 16 days. Heat treatment caused a greater increase in sensitivity to NaCl than to sucrose or acid pH in recovery media. Young cells were more sensitive to NaCl than were older cells.
Endovascular Repair of an Aortopulmonary Fistula via the Axillary Artery

A 62-year-old man presented with several months of progressive hemoptysis. He has a history of aortobifemoral bypass and thoracofemoral bypass grafts, which were both removed due to infection. Evaluation with multiple imaging modalities revealed a descending thoracic aortic pseudoaneurysm around the retained Dacron™ graft with bronchiectatic changes and consolidation of the adjacent left lower lobe. No evidence of direct arterial communication between the aorta and the bronchioles was ever demonstrated, but an aortopulnionary fistula was suspected. Endovascular repair with several Excluder aortic cuffs stacked in the thoracic aorta was successfully performed via the axillary artery. Exclusion of the pseudoaneurysm with no evidence of endoleak was noted on computed tomography 2 months postoperatively, at which time the patient reported complete resolution of his hemoptysis. To our knowledge, this is the first report of endovascular repair of an aortopulmonary fistula via the axillary artery.
Design and construction of a residential solar heating and cooling system

Abstract The first integrated system providing heating and cooling to a building by use of solar energy has been designed and installed in a residential-type building at Colorado State University. Solar heated liquid supplies heat to air circulating in the building and to a lithium bromide absorption air conditioner. Service hot water is also provided. Approximately two-thirds of the heating and cooling loads are expected to be met by solar energy, the balance by natural gas. The paper contains details of design and principles of operation. A breakdown of actual costs of the equipment and its installation is also provided.
Electrochemical detection of gene expression in tumor samples: overexpression of Rak nuclear tyrosine kinase.

Absolute quantification of Rak nuclear tyrosine kinase mRNA in breast tissue samples was determined by competitive RT-PCR. The total RNA from the same samples was also chemically amplified through conventional RT-PCR, and the relative amounts of these amplified RT-PCR products were determined by adsorption onto an indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode followed by electrochemical detection. The electrochemical detection was performed using the inorganic metal complex Ru(bpy)32+ (bpy = 2,2‘ bipyridine) to catalyze the oxidation of the guanine residues of the immobilized RT-PCR products. Using the competitive RT-PCR values as standards, it was found that an optimized conventional RT-PCR coupled with electrochemical detection provides a simple method for measuring relative gene expression among a series of mRNA samples from breast tumors. The use of electrochemical detection potentially eliminates the need for gel electrophoresis and fluorescent or radioactive labels in detecting the target genes.
Neuromuscular diseases after cardiac transplantation.

Background Cardiac transplantation is a therapeutic option in end-stage heart failure. Peripheral nervous system (PNS) disease is known to occur in cardiac transplant recipients but has not been fully characterized. Methods This retrospective cohort review reports the PNS-related concerns of 313 cardiac transplant recipients (28% women, 8% children) over an 18-year period at a single institution. Results Thirty percent of patients (95 of 313) reported a PNS-related concern in the post-transplant period, but only 5% had a concern in the first 6 weeks after transplant. The relative frequency of PNS-related complaints was as follows: polyneuropathy, 33%; muscle disease, 26%; mononeuropathy, 17%; radiculopathy, 13%; small-fiber polyneuropathy, 4%; plexopathy, 3%; and other (e.g., herpes zoster), 4%. Conclusions Etiology of these concerns can be divided into four broad categories: (1) immediate post-operative complications (e.g., brachial plexus stretch injury); (2) concerns related to the underlying disease prompting transplantation (e.g., polyneuropathy secondary to amyloidosis); (3) concerns related to necessary medications (e.g., steroid-associated myopathy); and (4) concerns reflective of aging in a post-transplant population with enhanced survival (e.g., degenerative joint disease–related radiculopathy).
Conducting polymer 1-dimensional nanostructures for FET sensors

Abstract In this review we have highlighted advantages of 1-dimensional nanostructures for field effect transistor (FET)/chemiresistor based sensors and advantages of conducting polymer as material of construction over other nanomaterials. Here we have ensembled different techniques used for the fabrication, assembly/alignment, functionalization and sensing applications of conducting polymer nanowire/tube/junction based FET sensors for gas and biomolecule detection. The advantages and disadvantages of various fabrication, functionalization, and assembling techniques are discussed. We evaluate how such devices have enabled the achievement of improved sensor performance in terms of high sensitivity, selectivity and low detection limits. Finally, we conclude by highlighting overall merits of different techniques and challenges researchers face in the field of conducting polymer 1-dimensional nanostructures-based sensors and also predict the future direction in which research efforts are likely to flourish.
URETHRAL DIVERTICULUM: AN UNUSUAL PRESENTATION OF WEGENER'S GRANULOMATOSIS

Wegener's granulomatosis is characterized by vasculitis and necrotizing granulomatous inflammation that classically affects the upper respiratory tract and lungs, and frequently involves the kidneys with pauci-immune glomerulonephritis.' Almost any organ may be involved, and eye, skin, nervous system and inner ear involvement are not uncommon. Involvement of the lower urinary tract is unusual.l.* To our knowledge we report the first case in which the initial presenting sign of Wegener's granulomatosis was a urethral diverticulum. CASE RE PORT A 56-year-old white woman presented with vaginal spotting. Full evaluation was unrevealing except for a nontender fluctuant area in the distal anterior vaginal wall, which had been incised transvaginally elsewhere. Some pus had been expressed and the incision was closed but the area soon became tender and indurated. The patient was placed on antibiotics and referred for further definitive evaluation and treatment. Urethroscopy revealed inflammatory changes as well as an ostium in the ventral distal urethra. Voiding cystourethrography confirmed a urethral diverticulum at the corresponding location (fig. 1). At surgery it was noted that the distal anterior vaginal wall had become much more indurated with pronounced inflammatory changes. Frozen sections of the distal anterior vaginal wall and tissue beneath it revealed no malignant elements. After meticulous dissection we removed a large doughnut-shaped urethral diverticulum circumferentially surrounding the distal half of the urethra with a portion of the anterior vaginal wall. A firm yellowish material was contained within the diverticulum. The anterior vaginal wall was reconstructed by advancing vaginal wall flaps to surround the urethra and cover the distal anterior vagina. Final pathological evaluation revealed a 4.5 x 3.8 x 1.4 cm. urethral diverticulum with a mass of necrotizing granulomatous inflammation (fig. 2). All tissue cultures and a purified protein derivative tuberculin test were negative. The patient did well until 1 month later, when a macular rash, arthralgia and chondritis of the right ear developed. Additional evaluations demonstrated superficial nasal septa1 ulceration, bilateral scleritis, nodules on the legs, fever of 101F. and paresthesia of the hands and feet. Chest x-ray showed a right lower lobe infiltrate and computerized tomography revealed 3 focal lung infiltrates consistent with local vasculitis. Bronchoscopy excluded infection. Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies with anti-proteinase 3 specificity were present. Serum creatinine and urinalysis (catheterized sample) were normal. Based on the histological findings, laboratory data, constellation of symptoms and signs, and radiological findings Wegener's granulomatosis was diagnosed. A regimen of prednisone and methotrexate was initiated. During the ensuing 8 weeks symptoms resolved, the radiological findings disappeared and the anterior vaginal wall healed completely. Currently the patient is asymptomatic. Prednisone will be ta
Effect of processing and thickness on the structure in a polyimide film of poly(pyromellitic dianhydride‐oxydianiline)

It is well known that poly(pyromellitic dianhydride-oxydianiline) (PMDA-ODA), orders at curing temperature well below its Tg with chains oriented parallel to the film plane. Structure analysis using X-ray scattering reveals two structural features: (a) The ordered structure range from biaxial-nematic-like to crystalline; (b) the symmetry of orientation of the ordered regions change from a fiber, to planar to isotropic as a function of depth. Both of these structural features are attributed to surface effects and solvent retention during curing. The solvent profile is estimated during the imidization process using a theoretical model. The model considers the change in temperature, imidization rate, diffusivity, and film thickness with time during the curing. The model indicates that solvent content after most of the imidization is complete is crucial in determining the order and texture in the film. At the air/film interface, a thin skin formation due to solvent depletion and surface ordering is suggested from the model. Depending on the process condition the overall structure of the film can vary from crystalline to mesomorphic. The biaxial nematic and smectic like structure are probably not equilibrium structures but are frustrated order due to limited solvent-induced mobility. The process condition affect the quality and quantity of order, and the texture due to chain's anisotropic cross-section is affected primarily by film thickness. By replacing a single component precursor with a blend of precursors of the same polyimide, both higher isotropy and order can be obtained in thin PMDA-ODA films. The order and extended chain conformation is better than that observed in the top 10 nm nearsurface-structure.
Time-Domain Dyadic Green's Function for an Electric Source in a Conductive Plate

We have determined the quasi-static time-domain dyadic Green's function for an electric source in a conductive plate for use in electric field integral equations. Starting with a frequency-domain representation, we constructed the dyadic kernel from electric and magnetic scalar potentials defined with respect to a preferred direction normal to plate. The final time-domain expression has three parts: a free-space term, multiple image terms, and partial reflection terms. The free-space fundamental solution is expressed in terms of a three-dimensional Gaussian bell curve satisfying the diffusion equation. Similarly, the image terms are expressed in the same form with coordinates shifted so that each Gaussian curve centers on an image point. In order to carry out the inverse Laplace transform from the frequency domain to the time domain, we expand the partial reflection functions as asymptotic series before transforming them analytically. The resulting expression for dyadic Green's kernel can be evaluated efficiently and with well-controlled accuracy
The interdependent roles of patients, families and professionals in cystic fibrosis: a system for the coproduction of healthcare and its improvement

A quality healthcare system is coproduced by patients, families and healthcare professionals working interdependently to cocreate and codeliver care. Cystic fibrosis (CF) patients and families rely on healthcare professionals to provide the best possible care and timely, accurate information. They know that the care at home and in clinical settings needs to be seamless, using shared information and decisions. A parent’s journey of better care begins with her son’s diagnosis and moves to her involvement to improve the systems and processes of care for others. She reflects on this work and identifies five elements that contributed to the coproduction of improved care: (1) mental and emotional readiness to engage; (2) curiosity and the search for insight; (3) reframe challenges into opportunities for improvement; (4) listen and learn from everyone, bringing home what is relevant; and (5) personal participation. Joined with the reflections of an improvement scientist, they note that chronic care relies on informed, activated patients and prepared, proactive healthcare professionals working together and that it is more than ‘patient-centric’. They propose a model for the coimprovement of systems of care.
Differential response to right and left ansae subclaviae stimulation of early afterdepolarizations and ventricular tachycardia induced by cesium in dogs.

Early afterdepolarizations (EADs) are depolarizing potentials that occur before complete repolarization. They may be important in the acquired and possibly the idiopathic long QT syndrome and associated ventricular tachycardia (VT). The purpose of these experiments was to study in 20 open-chest dogs the effects of sympathetic stimulation on EADs and VT produced with cesium chloride (84 mg/kg i.v.) alone or combined with left (LAS), right (RAS), or bilateral (BAS) ansae subclaviae stimulation (2 Hz, 4 msec, 2 mA). We compared the EAD amplitude and area as a percentage of monophasic action potential amplitude and area, respectively, recorded simultaneously with contact electrodes from right (RV) and left ventricular (LV) endocardium and recorded the prevalence of VT induction during each intervention. Both LAS and BAS produced left ventricular EADs with larger amplitudes and areas than did RAS or cesium alone. BAS and LAS produced larger EADs recorded from the LV than from the RV. Cesium produced VT in six of 20 dogs, RAS in three of 20, BAS in 12 of 20, and LAS in 16 of 20. Norepinephrine (0.1-1.5 micrograms/kg/min) caused VT in all dogs by producing a dose-related increase in EAD amplitude that was similar in RV and LV, suggesting that the response of RV and LV EADs to catecholamine stimulation was not intrinsically different. During stimulation of left ansae subclaviae at increasing frequencies (1, 2, 4, and 6 Hz), EADs were significantly larger in LV than in RV at all stimulus frequencies, and the amplitude of EADs in both ventricles increased with increasing stimulus frequencies. Based on the increased LV amplitude and area of cesium chloride-induced EADs during LAS and BAS, with EAD amplitude dependent on the frequency of LAS but with an equal RV and LV EAD amplitude during norepinephrine infusion, it is possible that more norepinephrine released into the LV during LAS and BAS compared with RAS causes larger amplitude LV EADs that reach threshold to cause VT more often. Thus, quantitative differences between the effects of left and right stellate ganglia stimulation rather than qualitative differences or imbalance may account for the arrhythmogenic potential of the left stellate ganglion.
Cattle, class and the state in rural Botswana

(1981). Cattle, class and the state in rural Botswana. Journal of Southern African Studies: Vol. 7, No. 2, pp. 236-255.
Extreme electric fields power catalysis in the active site of ketosteroid isomerase.

Enzymes use protein architecture to impose specific electrostatic fields onto their bound substrates, but the magnitude and catalytic effect of these electric fields have proven difficult to quantify with standard experimental approaches. Using vibrational Stark effect spectroscopy, we found that the active site of the enzyme ketosteroid isomerase (KSI) exerts an extremely large electric field onto the C=O chemical bond that undergoes a charge rearrangement in KSI’s rate-determining step. Moreover, we found that the magnitude of the electric field exerted by the active site strongly correlates with the enzyme’s catalytic rate enhancement, enabling us to quantify the fraction of the catalytic effect that is electrostatic in origin. The measurements described here may help explain the role of electrostatics in many other enzymes and biomolecular systems.
A digital method for phase noise measurement

To reduce the test costs of phase noise measurements, we use all-digital methods to detect sinusoidal phase noise components while reducing the need for computation intensive FFT.
Comments on “Predictive Torque Control of Induction Machines Based on State-Space Models”

In the paper “Predictive torque control of induction machines based on state-space models” by Miranda et al. (IEEE Trans. Ind. Electron., vol. 56, no. 6, pp. 1916-1924, Jun. 2009), a discrete-time model for an induction machine with time-varying components was proposed to improve the accuracy of the model predictive control strategy. In this letter, we clarify that the sampled model proposed by Miranda et al. is not exact, but rather an accurate approximation. Finally, its accuracy is analyzed and compared to using the simple Euler discretization.
Fiber Migration in Staple Yarns Part I: Mean Fiber Position as a Controlling Factor and the Influence of Spindle Speed and Spinning Tension1

The effects of spinning tension and spindle speed in fiber migration are studied and discussed. By using a novel experimental technique, staple yarns were prepared at several widely different level...
The Brain Galanin Receptors: Targets for Novel Antidepressant Drugs

Our present view that the mood disorders involve dysfunction of monoaminergic system is a result of important clinical and preclinical observations over the past 40 years. The therapeutic efficacy of drugs such as the tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and lately of SNRIs (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors) helped to shape our view that mood regulation involves the monoaminergic systems in some way. It is thus little surprising when the neuropeptide, galanin, is discovered to coexist with norepinephrine (NE) in locus coeruleus (LC) neurons and with serotonin (5-HT) in the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) neurons, a link between galanin mediated signaling and mood regulation is sought. Galanin receptors are expressed in brain structures that are involved in the regulation of mood such as frontal cortex, amygdala, hypothalamus, LC, DRN and hippocampus. It is almost an accident of research fate that the potent effects of galanin on cognitive performance and seizure threshold have led galanin research to focus on the hippocampus where the neuropeptide is present in cholinergic and noradrenergic afferents and where the receptor density is much lower than in the monoaminergic nuclei. Hopefully it is not too late to report on the recent inroads into the roles of galanin and of galanin receptor subtypes 2 and 3 (GalR2 and GalR3) in mood regulation in animal models as well as in human patients with major depression. A body of existing data suggests that GalR2 signaling leads to antidepressant-like, anticonvulsant and neurogenesis-promoting effects, a spectrum of activities that are commonly associated with efficacious antidepressants. Similarly, GalR3 antagonists exhibit anxiolytic and antidepressant-like activity, another clinically useful combination for the treatment of mood disorders. Since both GalR2 and GalR3 are G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), a favorite target class for drug development, we believe that the pace of developing galaninergic antidepressants will increase significantly from now on.
Intraseasonal Modulation of South American Summer Precipitation

Intraseasonal variation of convection over South America is examined using singular spectrum analysis (SSA). The dipole convection pattern with centers of action over the SACZ and the subtropical plains is modulated by modes of different timescales. Both oscillatory modes with periods of 36‐40 days (mode 40) and 22‐28 days (mode 22) influence convection over the SACZ with the faster mode (mode 22) leading the variability over the subtropical plains. Mode 40 is related to the Madden‐Julian oscillation. Outgoing longwave radiation anomalies (OLRA) propagate eastward from the western Pacific to the central Pacific with a period of 40‐48 days. The 200-hPa streamfunction composites show a wavenumber 1 structure in the Tropics and a wave train propagating downstream from the convective area in the tropical Pacific. The development of the dipole pattern is also contributed by mode 22, which features the meridional propagation of OLRA over South America from midlatitudes to the Tropics. The streamfunction composites for mode 22 show a wave train extending from the central Pacific eastward to about 608S and curving toward the northeast over South America. When the SACZ is enhanced, these two modes become meridionally aligned locally. Such episodes are characterized by a wave train propagating northeastward from southern South America toward the Tropics. Composites based on the SSA decomposition indicate that the dominant periods of variability (22 and 40 days) cancel out over the Pacific region and reinforce each other over the SACZ for times close to onset of the enhanced SACZ episodes.
Towards the “Baby Connectome”: Mapping the Structural Connectivity of the Newborn Brain

Defining the structural and functional connectivity of the human brain (the human “connectome”) is a basic challenge in neuroscience. Recently, techniques for noninvasively characterizing structural connectivity networks in the adult brain have been developed using diffusion and high-resolution anatomic MRI. The purpose of this study was to establish a framework for assessing structural connectivity in the newborn brain at any stage of development and to show how network properties can be derived in a clinical cohort of six-month old infants sustaining perinatal hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). Two different anatomically unconstrained parcellation schemes were proposed and the resulting network metrics were correlated with neurological outcome at 6 months. Elimination and correction of unreliable data, automated parcellation of the cortical surface, and assembling the large-scale baby connectome allowed an unbiased study of the network properties of the newborn brain using graph theoretic analysis. In the application to infants with HIE, a trend to declining brain network integration and segregation was observed with increasing neuromotor deficit scores.
The chloromethylketone protease inhibitor AAPFCMK also targets ATP‐dependent helicases and SAP‐domain proteins

We have been studying a nuclear protease, which appears to be involved in cellular transformation, as well as in infections with high-risk human papillomaviruses (HPVs). This protease has a chymotrypsin-like substrate specificity and the chloromethylketone inhibitor AAPF CMK is a potent (and relatively selective) inhibitor of it. Recently, we have observed that AAPF CMK has potent effects in some model systems which appear not to be mediated by decreases in the nuclear protease. Here we show that AAPF CMK selectively reacts with ATP-dependent helicases as well as a limited spectrum of proteins in other DNA repair/chromatin remodeling nuclear complexes, including for example Cohesin complex components and proteins containing SAP-domains. In vitro, AAPF CMK selectively reacts with SV40 large T antigen, and inhibits its helicase activity.
First Report of Pyricularia grisea (Gray Leaf Spot) on Perennial Ryegrass (Lolium perenne) in Nevada

In August of 2005, a golf course in Las Vegas, NV reported turf loss from an unknown disease on perennial ryegrass fairways. Samples from this course were examined, and diseased plants were found covered with lesions and sporulation typical of gray leaf spot as caused by Pyricularia grisea (Cooke) Sacc. With petroleum jelly, sporulating leaves were attached to the inside top surface of 100-mm petri dishes filled with 15 ml of 1.5% water agar. Conidia were allowed to drop onto the agar surface and 24 h later, individual germinating pyriform conidia were transferred to petri dishes containing one-quarter-strength potato dextrose agar (¼-PDA) with the aid of a fine needle and stereomicroscope. Isolates of the fungus were maintained at 28°C with constant fluorescent light. Isolates were examined 7 to 10 days later, and morphology and conidia production were consistent with that described previously for P. grisea (1). Koch's postulates were performed using a single isolate (SSGC-1.1) grown for 14 days on ¼-PDA. The petri dish was flooded with 15 ml of sterile distilled water plus 0.05% Tween 20 and conidia dislodged into the solution with a rubber policeman to obtain a solution of approximately 5 × 103 conidia per ml. Using a modified thin-layer chromatography plate sprayer, the solution was misted onto six pots of 6-week-old perennial ryegrass (a mixture of approximately 33% each of varieties 'Kokomo', 'Cabo' and 'Secretaria'), seeded at a density of 2 kg per 93 m2 grown in 4- × 4-cm plastic pots filled with University of California soil mix. As a control treatment, six pots of perennial ryegrass (grown as previously described) were treated with water plus 0.05% Tween 20 only. Pots of plants were placed into closed, translucent, plastic containers lined with wet paper towels to provide a moist environment and held at 30°C for 48 h. Pots of plants were transferred to an incubator set at 30°C and 80% relative humidity with 12 h of alternating light and dark cycles. Four days after inoculation, plants misted with conidia developed symptoms typical of gray leaf spot. Plants were again placed into closed plastic containers lined with wet paper towels for 24 h, at which time, lesions on symptomatic plants developed abundant conidia characteristic of P. grisea. Water-only treated plants did not show any symptoms or signs of disease. P. grisea was reisolated from sporulating leaves as described above. The disease has been spreading in the midwestern and northeastern United States since first reported in 1991 on perennial ryegrass in Pennsylvania. It has only recently been found on turfgrass in California (2), and to our knowledge, this is the first report of this pathogen on perennial ryegrass in Nevada. References: (1) M. B. Ellis. Dematiaceous Hyphomycetes. CMI, Kew, Surrey, UK, 1971. (2) W. Uddin et al. Plant Dis. 86:75, 2002.
Role of Protein Kinase C Isozymes in the Regulation of alpha1-Adrenergic Receptor-Mediated Contractions in Ovine Uterine Arteries

Previously, we demonstrated that activation of protein kinase C (PRKC) enhanced alpha(1)-adrenergic receptor-induced contractions in nonpregnant ovine uterine arteries but inhibited the contractions in pregnant ovine uterine arteries. The present study tested the hypothesis that differential regulation of PRKC isozyme activities contributes to the different effects of phorbol 12, 13-dibutyrate (PDBu) on alpha(1)-adrenergic receptor-mediated contractions between the pregnant and nonpregnant ovine uterine arteries. Phenylephrine-induced contractions of ovine nonpregnant and pregnant uterine arteries were determined in the absence or presence of the PRKC activator PDBu and/or in combination with conventional and novel PRKC isozyme inhibitor GF109203X, PRKC isozyme-selective inhibitory peptides for conventional PRKC, PRKCB1, PRKCB2, and PRKCE. GF109203X produced a concentration-dependent inhibition of phenylephrine-induced contractions in both nonpregnant and pregnant uterine arteries, and it reversed the PDBu-mediated potentiation and inhibition of phenylephrine-induced contractions in nonpregnant and pregnant uterine artieries, respectively. In addition, PRKCB1, PRKCB2, and PRKCE inhibitory peptides blocked the PDBu-mediated responses in both nonpregnant and pregnant uterine arteries. Western blot analysis showed that PDBu induced a membrane translocation of PRKCA, PRKCB1, PRKCB2, and PRKCE in pregnant uterine arteries, and PRKCB1, PRKCB2, and PRKCE in nonpregnant uterine arteries. The results disprove the hypothesis that the dichotomy of PRKC mechanisms in the regulation of alpha(1)-adrenergic receptor-induced contractions in nonpregnant and pregnant uterine arteries is caused by the activation of different PRKC isozymes, and suggest downstream mechanisms of differential subcellular distributions for the distinct functional effects of PRKC isozymes in the adaptation of uterine arteries to pregnancy.
Implications of land use change on the national terrestrial carbon budget of Georgia

Globally, the loss of forests now contributes almost 20% of carbon dioxide emissions to the atmosphere. There is an immediate need to reduce the current rates of forest loss, and the associated release of carbon dioxide, but for many areas of the world these rates are largely unknown. The Soviet Union contained a substantial part of the world's forests and the fate of those forests and their effect on carbon dynamics remain unknown for many areas of the former Eastern Bloc. For Georgia, the political and economic transitions following independence in 1991 have been dramatic. In this paper we quantify rates of land use changes and their effect on the terrestrial carbon budget for Georgia. A carbon book-keeping model traces changes in carbon stocks using historical and current rates of land use change. Landsat satellite images acquired circa 1990 and 2000 were analyzed to detect changes in forest cover since 1990. The remote sensing analysis showed that a modest forest loss occurred, with approximately 0.8% of the forest cover having disappeared after 1990. Nevertheless, growth of Georgian forests still contribute a current national sink of about 0.3 Tg of carbon per year, which corresponds to 31% of the country anthropogenic carbon emissions. We assume that the observed forest loss is mainly a result of illegal logging, but we have not found any evidence of large-scale clear-cutting. Instead local harvesting of timber for household use is likely to be the underlying driver of the observed logging. The Georgian forests are a currently a carbon sink and will remain as such until about 2040 if the current rate of deforestation persists. Forest protection efforts, combined with economic growth, are essential for reducing the rate of deforestation and protecting the carbon sink provided by Georgian forests.
Management regimes affect woody plant productivity and water use efficiency in an urban desert ecosystem

Woody plant productivity and water use were evaluated under various management regimes in the Central Arizona Phoenix Long Term Ecological Research study area during 1999–2003. Management was defined as alteration of plant density, irrigation of plants, and removal of plant biomass via pruning. In a ground survey of 204 randomly chosen sites woody plant canopy area (CA) was higher in developed plots than in desert plots. Highest CA was measured in single family residential (SFR) sites but did not differ from most other developed site types. In experimental plots modeled after local SFR sites whole plot above ground biomass production (PP) and leaf area (LA) were higher and water use efficiency (WUE) was lower under high irrigation rate relative to low irrigation rate. Shrub pruning affected whole plot LA but not PP or WUE. Plant gas exchange data were used in conjunction with a trapezoidal integration model to predict maximum plant carbon uptake for plants in desert sites or under various irrigation regimes. These data might be used to facilitate long term monitoring of plant productivity and water use in the study area and to establish sound management practices in urban and suburban environments.
Determination of Ca+ and K+ by pulsed glow discharge sector-field mass spectrometry

A microsecond pulsed glow discharge (PGD) has been employed in conjunction with a miniature Mattauch–Herzog double-focusing mass spectrograph. Several advantages have been realized through use of the PGD, including a higher instantaneous power, reduced sample heating, and the ability to temporally resolve spectra of analyte and support-gas ions. The latter advantage has allowed the determination of 40Ca+ and 39K+ concentrations in an argon discharge. Detection limits are in the tens of μg g−1 regime and are limited by the availability of suitable analytical standards.
Performing forward-viewing endoscopy at time of pancreaticobiliary EUS and ERCP may detect additional upper gastrointestinal lesions.

Background and study aims: It is unknown whether significant incidental upper gastrointestinal lesions are missed when using non-forward-viewing endoscopes without completing a forward-viewing exam in linear endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) exams. We evaluated whether significant upper GI lesions are missed during EUS and ERCP when upper endoscopy is not performed routinely with a gastroscope. Patients and methods: A retrospective analysis was performed in which an EGD with a forward-viewing gastroscope was performed after using a non-forward-viewing endoscope (linear echoendoscope, duodenoscope, or both) during a single procedure. Upper gastrointestinal tract findings were recorded separately for each procedure. Significant lesions found with a forward-viewing gastroscope were defined as findings that led to a change in the patient’s medication regimen, additional endoscopic surveillance/interventions, or the need for other imaging studies. Results: A total of 168 patients were evaluated. In 83 patients, a linear echoendoscope was used, in 52 patients a duodenoscope was used, and in 33 patients both devices were used. Clinically significant additional lesions diagnosed with a gastroscope but missed by a non-forward-viewing endoscope were found in 30 /168 patients (18 %). EGD after linear EUS resulted in additional lesion findings in 17 /83 patients (20.5 %, χ 2 = 13.385, P = 0.00025). EGD after use of a duodenoscope resulted in additional lesions findings in 10 /52 patients (19.2 %, χ 2 = 9.987, P = 0.00157). EGD after the use of both a linear echoendoscope and a duodenoscope resulted in additional lesions findings in 3/33 patients (9 %, χ 2 = 3.219, P = 0.07). Conclusion: Non forward-viewing endoscopes miss a significant amount of incidental upper gastrointestinal lesions during pancreaticobiliary endoscopy. Performing an EGD with a gastroscope at the time of linear EUS or ERCP can lead to increased yield of upper gastrointestinal lesions.
Ecological notes on Seriema species in the Paraguayan Chaco, with observations on Chunga biology

Ecological notes on Seriema species in the Paraguayan Chaco, with observations on Chunga biology
Genetic Engineering of Rumen Bacteria

For the purpose of enhancing cellulose digestion in the rumen, we have begun a project to introduce cellulase genes into non-cellulolytic rumen bacteria. Five distinct endoglucanase genes have been cloned, from the species Ruminococcus albus, R. flavefaciens and Bacteroides succinogenes. In addition, two xylanase genes have been cloned from B. ruminicola brevis and Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens, for the purpose of obtaining nutrient regulated gene promoters that function in those potential recipient species. DNA transfer vectors have been constructed using a plasmid from B. fibrisolvens and are being tested for their ability to transform that species.
Pathways of acute pH regulation of ammoniagenesis in LLC-PK1 cells: study with [15N]glutamine.

The present study utilized [15N]glutamine labeled at amide (5-N) and amino (2-N) groups to analyze the metabolic fate of glutamine nitrogen in basal and in acute pH regulation of ammoniagenesis. On...
A Review of the Genus Aclerda (Hemiptera; Coccidoidea)

At the suggestion of Professor G. F. Ferris, of the Department of Zoology of Stanford University, I have undertaken the following review of this small group of the scale insects. The material upon which the paper is based is contained for the most part in the Stanford Collection of Coccidae. Specimens of Aclerda holci n. sp. were obtained through the kindness of Mr. H. K. Plank, of the United States Bureau of Entomology and the holotype of this species will be deposited in the National Collection of Coccidae.
Sensor Based Proper Orthogonal Decomposition State Estimation in the Presence of Noise

Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD) has been used extensively in the past for estimation and low dimensional modeling of both steady and time periodic flow fields. For feedback flow control based on POD, it is necessary to obtain an estimate of the POD amplitudes based on sensor readings. In previous work we demonstrated that peaks in the POD spatial modes are optimal locations for placing sensors. However, with random noise added to the sensor readings, another constraint, namely the signal to noise ratio (SNR) needs to be considered when choosing sensor locations. For a D-shaped cylinder, we show that using both criteria for sensor placement leads to improved estimation results in the presence of sensor noise.