cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparative study of screening with subtracted probe and differential screening on isolation of flower-specific cDNA clones from Nicotiana sylvestris

Abstract A simple and efficient screening procedure for isolation of tissue-specific cDNA clones is described. A plasmid cDNA library was constructed from mRNAs extracted from Nicotiana sylvestris flower buds. Flower-specific cDNA clones were identified after screening of the cDNA library with subtracted probe enriched for flower-specific sequences. Comparison of this procedure with the conventional differential screening indicated that it has the advantages of direct isolation of highly specific cDNA clones, as well as identification of less abundant specifically expressed clones. The isolated cDNA clones were classified into 14 independent cross-hybridization groups. Northern blot analysis with the cDNA clones as probes, distinguished three types of mRNA expression patterns: (1) specific expression in stamen during a restricted period of flower development; (2) expression in the reproductive organs; (3) expression in both the structural and reproductive flower organs. Sequencing revealed that 6 of the groups correspond to known genes, but the remaining 8 were not homologous to the sequences in the data bank.
Geometry of Ricci Solitons

Ricci solitons are natural generalizations of Einstein metrics on one hand, and are special solutions of the Ricci flow of Hamilton on the other hand. In this paper we survey some of the recent developments on Ricci solitons and the role they play in the singularity study of the Ricci flow.
NbSe 3 : Effect of uniaxial stress on the threshold field and fermiology

We have measured the effect of elastic strain $\ensuremath{\epsilon}$ on the threshold field ${E}_{T}$ for the motion of the higher-temperature charge density wave (CDW) in ${\mathrm{NbSe}}_{3}$. We find that ${E}_{T}$ exhibits a critical behavior, ${E}_{T}\ensuremath{\sim}(1\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\epsilon}/{\ensuremath{\epsilon}}_{c}{)}^{\ensuremath{\gamma}}$ where ${\ensuremath{\epsilon}}_{c}$ is about 2.6%, $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ $\ensuremath{\sim}$1.2. This expression remains valid over more than two decades of ${E}_{T},$ up to the highest fields of about 1.5 kV/m measured using pulse techniques. Neither $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ nor ${\ensuremath{\epsilon}}_{c}$ is very sensitive to the impurity content of the sample. The transition temperature is linear with $\ensuremath{\epsilon}$, and ${\mathrm{dT}}_{P}/d\ensuremath{\epsilon}$=10 K/% shows no anomaly near ${\ensuremath{\epsilon}}_{c}.$ The slope of the narrow band noise frequency versus the CDW current does not change appreciably with $\ensuremath{\epsilon}$. Shubnikov\char21{}de Haas measurements show that the extremal area of the Fermi surface decreases with increasing $\ensuremath{\epsilon}$. We conclude that there is a very intimate relationship between pinning and the fermiology in ${\mathrm{NbSe}}_{3}$.
[3H]Captopril binding to membrane associated angiotensin converting enzyme

[3H]Captopril binding to membrane fractions of rat tissues is saturable and reversible with a KD of 2.4 nM. [3H]Captopril binding and angiotensin converting enzyme measured with hippuryl-L-histidine-L-leucine are distributed in parallel between different tissues and brain regions, with highest levels in the choroid plexus, lung and corpus striatum. Captopril, N-(1(S)-carboxy-3-phenyl-propyl)-L-alanyl-L-proline, N-(1(S)-carboxy-3-phenyl-propyl)-L-lysyl-L-proline, teprotide, thiorphan and S-acetylcaptopril each have similar potencies for inhibition of [3H]captopril binding and of angiotensin converting enzyme. These data strongly indicate that [3H]captopril binds selectively to angiotensin converting enzyme. [3H]Captopril binding evaluation should help clarify the localization and function of angiotensin converting enzyme and assist in defining pharmacologic actions of captopril.
Midgut-Gland Development During Early Life-History Stages of the American Lobster Homarus americanus

ABSTRACT Currently there are at least 2 hypotheses regarding function of the different cell types in the midgut gland of decapod crustaceans. Both agree that E-cells are undifferentiated cells which mature into the other cell types. One hypothesis holds that F-cells synthesize digestive enzymes and subsequently differentiate into B-cells, which, in turn, secrete the enzymes into the midgut-gland lumen. R-cells are believed to function in the absorption of digested nutrients, intracellular digestion, and storage of lipid and glycogen, among other roles. The alternate hypothesis states that F-cells synthesize and secrete digestive enzymes and then take up partially digested material to yield B-cells, which are involved in intracellular digestion. B-cells are later discharged into the lumen; R-cells subsequently absorb nutrients from the gut lumen and store lipid and glycogen. In the present study, the midgut glands of embryos, prelarvae, and stage I larvae of the American lobster Homarus americanus were examined histologically. R-cells of all the early developmental stages sampled had only 1 or 2 lipid vacuoles, presumably representing resorbed yolk lipids, in contrast to the numerous lipid vacuoles in R-cells of adult lobsters. E-, R-, and F-cells, but not B-cells, were present in embryos sampled approximately 3 days before their siblings hatched as stage I larvae. B-cells had developed in prelarvae sampled approximately 12 h before their siblings hatched and also occurred in prelarvae sampled approximately 3 h before hatching and in newly hatched stage I larvae. B-cell numbers increased by the time stage I larvae reached intermolt, regardless of whether they were fed or starved. Since embryos, prelarvae, and newly hatched larvae have not ingested exogenous nutrients, the presence of B-cells in these early developmental stages was triggered by something other than uptake of partially digested food and is probably genetically programmed. These results provide indirect evidence supporting 1 hypothesis regarding midgut-gland cell function: that F-cells mature into B-cells before, rather than after, digestion has begun.
Three-body free-energy terms and effective potentials in polar fluids and ionic solutions

Abstract Three-body free-energy terms and corresponding “effective” orientation-independent electrostatic potentials for polar fluids and ionic solutions are given.
Effects of sublingual nitroglycerin on human uterine contractility during the active phase of labor

Abstract Nitroglycerin is administered intravenously in acute obstetric emergencies to relax the uterus. However, complications (eg, hypotension, acute uterine bleeding) are frequent, which prompted a search for alternative routes of administration. We hypothesized that the sublingual administration of nitroglycerin would reduce uterine tone and contractility with few complications. Intrauterine pressure was measured in 12 women who were actively laboring (>4 cm dilatation, regular contractions) with epidural analgesia and who were alert and responsive throughout the study. In a double-blind fashion, subjects were randomized to receive either placebo or sublingual nitroglycerin (3 doses, 800 μg each) 10 minutes apart. The obstetric anesthesiologist continuously monitored maternal blood pressure and fetal heart rate. Cervical dilatation was assessed at the beginning and the end of the protocol. The area under the intrauterine pressure curve (integral) was used to estimate uterine contractility. Intrauterine pressure was analyzed before the randomization code was broken. Nitroglycerin did not alter the intrauterine pressure integral after the first dose (placebo, 3147 mm Hg · s [95% CI, 2206-4088] vs nitroglycerin, 4146 mm Hg · s [95% CI, 2451-5841]; P =.22), second dose (placebo, 3123 mm Hg · s [95% CI, 2447-3799] vs nitroglycerin, 3611 mm Hg · s [95% CI, 2723-4499]; P =.28), or third dose (placebo, 3303 mm Hg · s [95% CI, 2616-3990] vs nitroglycerin, 3810 mm Hg · s [95% CI, 2306-5314]; P =.45). Cervical dilation, basal uterine tone, duration and frequency of uterine contractions, or fetal heart rhythm remained unaffected. Maternal mean arterial pressure decreased significantly after nitroglycerin was administered. All women were delivered vaginally without intervention. Three doses of sublingual nitroglycerin (800 μg per dose) reduce neither uterine activity nor tone, despite lowering maternal blood pressure. If a clinical option, sublingual nitroglycerin will require a higher dose, which would place mother and fetus at risk for complication. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2002;187:235-8.)
Experimental techniques for subnanosecond resolution of laser-launched plates and impact studies

Miniature laser-launched plates have applications in shock wave physics, studying dynamic properties of materials and can be used to generate experimental data in a manner similar to a laboratory gas gun for one-dimensional impact experiments. Laser-launched plates have the advantage of small size, low kinetic energy, and can be launched with ubiquitous laboratory lasers. Because of the small size and high accelerations (10{sup 7}--10{sup 10} g`s), improved temporal resolution and optical non-contact methods to collect data are required. Traditional mechanical in-situ gauges would significantly impair the data quality and do not have the required time response.
Antibody response of bluegill sunfish during development of acquired resistance against the larvae of the freshwater mussel Utterbackia imbecillis.

Abstract The larvae of freshwater mussels in the order Unionoida are obligate parasites on fishes, on which they metamorphose into juveniles. Bluegill sunfish (Lepomis macrochirus) acquire resistance against glochidia of the freshwater mussel Utterbackia imbecillis after 2 infections. In order to study the systemic and mucosal antibody response associated with acquired resistance, sera from experimentally infected fish were collected at 10-d intervals during 4 sequential infection periods and from naive fish. Enzyme-linked immunosorbant assays (ELISA) revealed that fish exhibited a humoral and mucosal antibody response around day 20 after the 1st infection which was followed by second antibody response beginning at day 60 (day 20, 3rd infection) that persisted until the end of the collection period. Western blots of glochidial proteins probed with the sera revealed that the profile of proteins recognized by antibodies produced by fish changed over the course of multiple infections. Serum collected from fish at day 20 (peak of primary response) contained antibodies against ∼39 and 91 kDa proteins. Immunohistochemical studies on whole-mount glochidia probed with serum from these fish demonstrated that the antibodies recognize granular structures located between the larval mantle and shell. Serum collected from fish during the secondary antibody response (days 60–80) bound additional protein bands in Western blots. Those antibodies recognized other cells of the larval mantle, most prominently in a ciliated region that contains the primordia of the gills and organs of the juvenile and adult mussel.
Differential expression of cell surface glycoproteins on various organ‐derived microvascular endothelia and endothelial cell cultures

Glycoproteins expressed on the luminal surfaces of microvascular endothelium derived from various murine organs were analyzed and compared with those expressed by cultured vascular endothelial cells. Cell-surface vascular proteins were radiolabeled in situ via intracardiac perfusion with lactoperoxidase/Na125I. Autoradiography confirmed that the radiolabel was restricted to the vessel lumen in most tissues. Controls contained 125I-labeled serum proteins to identify adsorbed serum components. Glycoproteins were analyzed by western enzyme-linked lectin analysis using detergent extracts of 125I-labeled microvessels isolated from different organs. The western transfers were probed with a panel of lectin-peroxidase conjugates to determine differences in protein glycosylation. The same transfers were also screened for exposed 125I-labeled cell-surface proteins by autoradiography. This dual analysis detected glycoprotein patterns unique for each organ. At least seven major proteins (Mr approximately 180 K, 130 K, 95 K, 80 K, 75 K, 60 K, 12 K) were common to microvessels derived from each organ; however, certain glycoproteins appeared to be expressed differentially in particular organs. For example, a Mr approximately 135 K WGA-binding glycoprotein was detected in brain microvessels, whereas another WGA-binding glycoprotein of Mr approximately 40 K was detected only in kidney. In lung microvessels, a Mr approximately 140 K WGA binding glycoprotein and a Mr approximately 55 K RCA-I-binding galactoprotein were expressed preferentially, and liver microvessels displayed Mr approximately 220 K protein and a Mr approximately 35 K PNA-binding galactoprotein. The cell-surface-iodinated protein profiles from in situ labeled microvessels were similar to profiles derived from cultured bovine aortic endothelial cells and several short-term endothelial cell cultures isolated from different organs. The results from this study suggest that organ-associated endothelia express glycoprotein fingerprints unique to each organ.
WHAT SHOULD WE CALL THE FORAMINIFERA

Shelled granuloreticulose microorganisms have had a complex etymological history that began in 1826 when d'Orbigny gave his new order the name Foraminiferes and characterized the group. Soon afterwards, further examina- tion and proper Latinization established them as class Foraminifera. D'Orbigny should be credited with the suprafamilial group name, regardless of rank, because he provided defining characteristics, and also because higher taxa are not governed by ICZN rules; in addition, we should consider the history of its attribution and what is traditional and customary in zoological nomenclature. The name Foraminifera is the source of a variety of informal terms, including foraminifera, foraminifer, foraminiferan, and for- am. Long after being demoted to order, the Latinized name was modified to Foraminiferida in 1964 by Loeblich and Tappan, the informal foraminiferid was introduced later. Here, we briefly examine these terms as sets of singular and plural nouns, and their derived adjectives and nouns that begin with foram-. Authors can choose any of the derived terms, but they should be consistent by using only one term-set throughout their paper. Other nouns derived from forami- nifer-, such as foraminiferologist for a student of the group, are not usually part of a term-set. The informal term foram is a valid derivation and it is the most common of the names used in conversation among earth scientists and biologists. It is already accepted in major dictionaries and literature, and it has been used in specific word pairs found in scientific publications. In addition, foram eases communication by its multilingual applicability; it is also the easiest of the terms to pronounce, write, and read. For all these reasons, its use may increase in scientific literature.
Characterization of dopaminergic compounds at hD2short, hD4.2 and hD4.7 receptors in agonist-stimulated [35S]GTPgammaS binding assays.

Dopamine receptor agonists and antagonists have been extensively characterized in radioligand binding assays; only a limited number of laboratories have characterized them using a functional assay at multiple receptor subtypes. Experiments were designed to assess four agonists and seven antagonists at three cloned human dopamine receptors using agonist-stimulated [35S]GTPγS binding assays in membranes to quantify the initial cellular event following ligand/receptor interaction. In this model there is constitutive G protein activity (agonist-independent [35S]GTPγS binding) and potentially constitutive dopamine receptor activity. Thus, discrimination between silent antagonists, partial agonists and inverse agonists is theoretically possible. It was anticipated that distinctions could be made regarding efficacy of the seven receptor antagonists to provide insight regarding the therapeutic use of antipsychotic drugs.
Simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infection of infant rhesus macaques as a model to test antiretroviral drug prophylaxis and therapy: oral 3'-azido-3'-deoxythymidine prevents SIV infection.

The prophylactic and therapeutic properties of 39-azido-39-deoxythymidine (AZT) against simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infection were tested in four 3-month-old rhesus macaques. The infant monkeys were inoculated intravenously with a low dose (1 to 10 100% animal infectious doses) of uncloned SIVmac. The monkeys were treated orally with 50 mg of AZT per kg of body weight every 8 h; two animals were started on treatment 2 h prior to virus inoculation, and two animals were started on treatment 6 weeks later. All four animals were treated for a period of 6 to 10 weeks. Outward signs of AZT toxicity were absent, but a mild macrocytic anemia occurred soon after therapy was started and resolved shortly after it was discontinued. The two infants that were begun on AZT treatment 2 h prior to virus inoculation never became infected, as demonstrated by the inability to detect cell-free or cell-associated virus in the blood, proviral DNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells, or anti-SIV antibodies. AZT administration over a 10-week period had no detectable effect on the course of disease in the two animals that were begun on treatment after the infection had been established. In addition to demonstrating the prophylactic effect of AZT against low-dose SIV exposure, the study demonstrated the ease with which infant rhesus macaques can be used for antiretroviral drug testing. Images
Noradrenergic activation of the basolateral amygdala modulates consolidation of object recognition memory.

Noradrenergic activation of the basolateral complex of the amygdala (BLA) modulates the consolidation of memory for many kinds of highly emotionally arousing training tasks. The present experiments investigated whether posttraining noradrenergic activation of the BLA is sufficient to enable memory consolidation of a low-arousing training experience. Sprague-Dawley rats received intra-BLA infusions of norepinephrine, the β-adrenoceptor antagonist propranolol or saline immediately after either 3 or 10 min of object recognition training. Saline-infused controls exhibited poor 24-h retention when given 3 min of object recognition training and good retention when given 10 min of training. Norepinephrine administered after 3 min of object recognition training produced dose-dependent enhancement of 24-h object recognition memory whereas propranolol administered after 10 min of training produced dose-dependent impairment of memory. These findings provide evidence that posttraining noradrenergic activation of the BLA enhances memory of a low-arousing training experience that would otherwise not induce long-term memory. Thus, regardless of the degree of emotional arousal induced by an experience, noradrenergic activation of the BLA after the experience ensures that it will be better remembered.
Ultrasonic measurements of crack tip shielding by closure

Abstract During fatigue, an existing crack closes partially owing to the compressive stresses set up by the deformed material. It is well established that this crack closure can have pronounced effects on the rate of crack propagation and thus on fatigue life. The present paper deals mainly with our recent efforts which have been concerned with the characterization of crack closure acoustically and the determination of the mechanical effects of closure on the crack tip. Results indicate that closure occurs by asperity contact along the fracture surface and it is this asperity contact which shields the crack tip, in part, from the externally applied driving force on the crack tip. Consequences of this research on the effective stress intensity range and thus on the driving force on a crack will be discussed.
Biosynthesis of diosgenin in Dioscorea tubers.

Abstract The incorporation of radioacetate into diosgenin by homogenates of Dioscorea floribunda has been demonstrated by rigorous purification of the isolated sapogenin. Mevalonic acid is not incorporated into diosgenin to any significant extent under these conditions. The diosgenin content and biosynthetic activity of various parts of a tuber show appreciable differences.
Students' understanding of convolution

This paper examines students' interpretations of open-ended convolution tasks in order to understand typical approaches students use to arrive at solutions. The goal of the study is to determine which solution approaches are more or less effective for students, as well as understand how signals and systems novices interpret open-ended problems in a course.
Determinants of Poor Self-Rated Health in Late Life

The authors examined the determinants of poor self-rated health by use of data from the Duke University site of the Established Populations for Epidemiologic Studies of the Elderly (EPESE). Study participants were community residents, 65 years of age or older, selected from five contiguous counties in the north-central Piedmont area of North Carolina. Poorer self-rated health was correlated cross-sectionally with depressive symptomatology, poor functional status, chronic disease, lower income, less education, being married, younger age, being hospitalized within the past year, and current smoking habit. The authors emphasize the importance of a comprehensive model for understanding the components of the construct of self-rated health and propose possible explanations for the significant correlates of self-rated health.
Extracellular ATP-induced Proliferation of Adventitial Fibroblasts Requires Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase, Akt, Mammalian Target of Rapamycin, and p70 S6 Kinase Signaling Pathways

Extracellular nucleotides are increasingly recognized as important regulators of growth in a variety of cell types. Recent studies have demonstrated that extracellular ATP is a potent inducer of fibroblast growth acting, at least in part, through an ERK1/2-dependent signaling pathway. However, the contributions of additional signaling pathways to extracellular ATP-mediated cell proliferation have not been defined. By using both pharmacologic and genetic approaches, we found that in addition to ERK1/2, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), Akt, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and p70 S6K-dependent signaling pathways are required for ATP-induced proliferation of adventitial fibroblasts. We found that extracellular ATP acting in part through Gi proteins increased PI3K activity in a time-dependent manner and transient phosphorylation of Akt. This PI3K pathway is not involved in ATP-induced activation of ERK1/2, implying activation of independent parallel signaling pathways by ATP. Extracellular ATP induced dramatic increases in mTOR and p70 S6K phosphorylation. This activation of the mTOR/p70 S6 kinase (p70 S6K) pathway in response to ATP is because of independent contributions of PI3K/Akt and ERK1/2 pathways, which converge on the level of p70 S6K. ATP-dependent activation of mTOR and p70 S6K also requires additional signaling inputs perhaps from pathways operating through Gα or Gβγ subunits. Collectively, our data demonstrate that ATP-induced adventitial fibroblast proliferation requires activation and interaction of multiple signaling pathways such as PI3K, Akt, mTOR, p70 S6K, and ERK1/2 and provide evidence for purinergic regulation of the protein translational pathways related to cell proliferation.
FROST DAMAGE TO STONE AND CONCRETE: GEOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS

Abstract Frost damage to stone and concrete is due to expansion during freezing of water. This process is presented in the p—v—t diagram of ice which is updated and lines of density added for the phases water and ice I. Water also expands 0.4% at 1 atm when heated from 4 to 30°C, and 0.6% at 1 atm, if undercooled from 4 to —20°C. A modified diagram with t on the abscissa and the density change in percent on the ordinate gives expansion curves for 1, 25, 50, 75, and 100 atm. Water is enough compressible that no expansion can take place from 4 to 30°C, if the capillaria walls can resist stresses to 100 atm which are insufficient to break up sound rock. The efficiency of water transportation to the zone of freezing in soils and rocks depends on the size and distribution of capillaria, and the presence of non-swelling clay minerals which act like water pumps along the channels without closing the channels. Water in micropores, however, is unfreezable and much less mobile than water in larger channels, if only a few molecules thick, oriented, and stressed. Engineering geological applications of the p-v-t ice diagram are as follows: (a) the frost stability of stone, if strength, climate, and capillaria size are known; (b) the stability of point-bearing piles in muddy frozen sediments; (c) the knowledge of the rock strength in estimates of minimum Pleistocene rock temperatures of felsenmeers. The freezing process of water is known to produce a spontaneous expansion from a density of about 1.000–0.9165. The expansion pressure (or crystallization pressure) may be of considerable importance as it aids in the mechanical disintegration of natural rock, structural stone and concrete. The interest in the process of freezing started at the beginning of the 19th century when the expansion as well as the contraction of ice at increased pressures was recognized. Only recently we have learned that the damaging frost action does not depend on the expansion of ice alone, but rather on a variety of processes which diagram of ice may find an application in engineering geology. The discussion also extends to the implications which the lithology may have in the frost safety of rocks and soils. It is the hope that the previous discussion will be helpful to both the geologist and the engineer.
Behavior of the geodynamo during reversal: A phenomenological model

A model is presented which interprets observed transitional behavior of the geomagnetic field to be reflective of a reversal process which begins in a localized region of the core. Azimuthal as well as latitudinal extension (or “flooding”) of reversed flux is then assumed to continue until the entire magnetic source region has been affected. Comparison with the paleomagnetic records corresponding to the Matuyama-Brunhes transition presently available from five site localities scattered about the northern hemisphere indicates that the model can successfully simulate global time-dependent variation in the reversing geomagnetic vector field. For low- and mid-latitude sites, predicted behavior during transitions is found to be compatible with that outlined earlier for the case of axisymmetric flooding. The model also successfully accounts for the high degree of dispersion among paths of the virtual geomagnetic pole (VGP) associated with Icelandic data. Comparison of VGP paths corresponding to four Cenozoic transitions recorded in the western United States suggests that there may exist a small number of discrete sites in the core at which reversals originate. It is not as yet clear whether these findings lend support to any particular kinematic or hydromagnetic model of the geodynamo.
Three‐Dimensional Finite‐Element Analysis of Viscous Sintering

A finite-element model is developed and implemented on a massively parallel supercomputer to study the viscous sintering of a three-dimensional (3-D) configuration of three particles. Model development is described, implementation is discussed, and calculations are compared with benchmark results for a two-dimensional (2-D) axisymmetric case. For the first time, detailed simulation results are shown for the viscous sintering of a 3-D, three-particle system. The calculations predict center approach of particle pairs concurrent with asymmetric neck growth, effects which ultimately lead to an inward rotation of the outer particles. Anisotropic shrinkage arises due to this 3-D rearrangement of the particles during sintering.
Structural evolution in polyoxometalates: a DFT study of dimerization processes in Lindqvist and Keggin cluster anions.

Density functional theory (DFT) calculations are used to investigate dimerization, by acid condensation, between Lindvist and Keggin cluster anions. When specific addendum atoms are present (notably, Ti, V, Nb, and Cr), these clusters dimerize in the presence of acid via the formation of μ-O linkages. These processes may be viewed as molecular models for the formation of metal−oxygen bonds in the active sites of metalloenzymes, or in materials chemistry, and we here provide detailed information concerning these reactions. For this, DFT calculations are used to provide insight into the mechanism(s) associated with dimerization of Lindqvist clusters, W5MO19n- (M = W, Mo, V, Nb, and Ti) in acidic media. In full accord with experimental data, our calculations show that dimerization of Nb and Ti derivatives is thermodynamically favored and that this is not the case for dimerization between Mo, V, and W addendum atoms. In addition, dimerization of PW11TiO405- and SiW11NbO405- to give the corresponding dimers wa...
The benefit of paternal assistance in intra- and interspecific competition for the burying beetle, Nicrophorus defodiens

Burying beetles, Nicrophorus spp., bury small carcasses as food for their young. Both males and females provide extensive parental care and the major advantage of paternal assistance is to reduce the probability that the carcass will be usurped by a conspecific competitor and the brood killed. Whereas male assistance in N. defodiens significantly reduces the probability of usurpation by a conspecific, it is ineffective against larger congeneric intruders. Male N. defodiens provide shorter parental care than do males of the larger, N. orbicollis, whose assistance is effective against all burying beetles in preventing usurpation. I compare the duration of paternal care in this New Hampshire population of N. defodiens and one in Michigan and argue that this behavior is shaped by the competitive environment.
Female meadow voles, Microtus pennsylvanicus, respond differently to the scent marks of multiple male conspecifics

Many nonhuman animals are capable of discriminating a group or entity containing more objects from one containing less of the same objects. The capacity for making judgments of numerousness may also allow individuals to discriminate between potential mates. Female meadow voles (Microtus pennsylvanicus) may use judgments of relative numerousness to distinguish between potential suitors by selecting males that signal their interest by depositing more scent marks relative to other males. We used a familiarization–discrimination paradigm in the absence of training to test the hypothesis that female voles will discriminate between the different numerosities of scent marks of two male conspecifics that are similar in features of their phenotype and quality. During the exposure phase, we presented female voles with different ratios of feces scent marks from two males. During the test phase, we presented females with a single, fresh fecal scent mark from each of the two male donors, whose marks they had previously encountered during the exposure phase. In both phases, females spent more time investigating the scent mark(s) of the male that deposited more scent marks than that of the male that deposited fewer scent marks provided the difference in the ratio of scent marks provided by the male donors in the exposure phase was ≥2. Our results are consistent with studies on a variety of taxa, suggesting that numerosity discriminations are evolutionarily ancient and spontaneously available to nonhuman animals and humans.
Families Implying the Frankl Conjecture

A union closed (UC) family A is a finite family of sets such that the union of any two sets in A is also in A. Peter Frankl conjectured that for every union closed family A, there exists some x contained in at least half the members of A. An FC-family is a UC family B such that for every UC family A, if B?A, then A satisfies the Frankl conjecture. We construct several such families, involving five, six, and seven elements.
Accurate Heats of Formation for SFn, SFn+, and SFn- for n = 1−6

Accurate heats of formation are computed for SFn, SFn+, and SFn-, for n=1-6. The geometries and vibrational frequencies are determined at the B3LY-P level of theory. The energetics are determined at the CCSD(T) level of theory. Extrapolation to the basis set limit is discussed. The temperature dependence of the heat of formation, heat capacity, and entropy are computed for the temperature range 300 to 4000 approx. K and fit to a polynomial.
Sociometer theory and the pursuit of relational value: Getting to the root of self-esteem

Despite the amount of attention that researchers have devoted to the topic of self-esteem, many central questions remain unanswered. Sociometer theory addresses many such questions by suggesting that self-esteem is part of a psychological system (the sociometer) that monitors the social environment for cues indicating low or declining relational evaluation (e.g., lack of interest, disapproval, rejection) and warns the individual when such cues are detected. The theory suggests that people are not motivated to maintain their self-esteem per se as has been typically assumed, but rather seek to increase their relational value and social acceptance, using self-esteem as a gauge of their effectiveness. The present chapter describes sociometer theory's perspective on self-esteem, reviews evidence relevant to the theory, and describes how it explains phenomena in which self-esteem has been implicated, including interpersonal emotion, social identity effects, intergroup behaviour, and clinical disorders.
Applications of a two-way debonding theory to short fibre composites

Abstract Traditional fibre debonding theories which consider debonding only from the loaded end of the fibre are only applicable to composites with low fibre volume fraction, low fibre/matrix moduli ratio and high interfacial strength/interfacial friction ratio. A two-way debonding theory, which is applicable to all general cases, has recently been developed. In this paper, major findings from the new two-way theory are first summarized. The new theory is compared with traditional theories with respect to the prediction of composite properties. For the fibre pull-out test specimen, where fibre volume fraction is very low, a new method of deriving interfacial bond properties based on one-way debonding theory is presented. For practical composite systems, the significance of employing the new two-way debonding theory is discussed.
Notes on the breeding habits of the nudibranchs of Monterey bay and vicinity

Data concerning the seasonal distribution of twenty-two species of nudibranchs are recorded for a period of 9 months. The occurrence of copulation and of egg laying for these animals in the laboratory aquaria is recorded for the same period. These data indicate that the seasonal distribution of certain species is well marked, and that there is in many cases a definite breeding season. The characteristics of the egg ribbons of these nudibranchs are described, and figured by means of photographs. These egg ribbons approach the mathematical form of a spiral of Archimedes. In every case observed, the ribbon was deposited in a counter-clockwise direction, viewed dorsally. The relationship between these observations and earlier work on the life histories of the nudibranchs is discussed.
Schizophrenia and the deletion of certainty: an existential case study.

Summary.-The subject of this case study was a schizophrenic hospitalized for over 20 yr. A figure of ridicule, he appears delapidated and confused. The purpose of the study was to determine whether there is some underlying coherence to his disordered thinking and perceptual processes. Based on existential principles, the method emphasized his sense of time, causality, and the external environment. During a 2-mo. period, the author recorded the patient's scatemenu about a number of pre-selected conversational topics. The results suggested that his conscious experience is organized around the premise that nothing is definite. He is enveloped in a kind of perceptual fog and shows a corresponding indefinite quality in the cognitive realm. It was suggested that the veil of uncertainty protects him from the full impact of existential anxiety. The tendency of some schizophrenics to "destructure" reality is discussed in the light of existential theory.
Isolation of fungal DNA from plant tissues and removal of DNA amplification inhibitors

Specific primers and the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) are increasingly used for detection of fungi in plants. Detection depends on isolation of DNA that is free of compounds that inhibit amplification. We report on the significance of inhibition in soybean stems with a focus on studies of the vascular fungal pathogen Phialophora gregata. A simple DNA extraction procedure based on a FastDNA® kit is described that allows consistent detection of fungi in soybean stems using PCR. The addition of polyvinylpyrrolidone and supplemental DNA purification steps overcame inhibition in over 90% of samples. These methods should also facilitate studies with other plant and fungal species.
Neuropeptide y potentiates norepinephrine-stimulated inositol phosphate production in the rat tail artery

Abstract We have recently demonstrated the ability of neuropeptide Y to augment norepinephrine-sti,ulated contractions of rat tail artery. In [ 3 H]myo- inositol labeled segments of rat tail artery, addition of a concentration of neuropeptide Y (10 −8 M) known to potentiate contractile responses produced no effect on the basal accumulation of [ 3 H]inositol phosphates. Addition of norepinephrine (10 −7 M), however, resulted in the rapid accumulation of [ 3 H]inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate to 325 ± 29 % of basal levels within 5 min. This effect of norepinephrine on [ 3 H]inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate accumulation was mirrored by significant increases (274 ± 25 % of control) in total [ 3 H]inositol phosphates. When neuropeptide Y and norepinephrine were added together, the norepinephrine-stimulated increase in [ 3 H]inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate was significantly augmented (467 ± 35 % of control) as was the increase measured in total [ 3 H]inositol phosphates (366 ± 21 % of control). We suggest that the ability of neuropeptide Y to augment norepinephrine-induced contraction of the rat tail artery is due, at least in part, to the ability of neuropeptide Y to increase norepinephrine-stimulated phospholipase C activity in vascular smooth muscle and may represent the mechanism of action of this co-neurotransmitter in vivo .
Identification of mouse palmitoyl-coenzyme A Δ9-desaturase

Stearoyl-coenzyme A desaturase (SCD) catalyzes the desaturation of saturated fatty acids to monounsaturated fatty acids in mammalian cells. Currently, there are four known enzymatic isoforms (SCD1–SCD4) in the mouse genome. The physiological roles for multiple SCD isoforms and their substrate specificities are unknown at present. We report here distinct substrate specificities for the mouse SCD isoforms. Each SCD isoform was able to complement the ole1 mutation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae through heterologous expression of transgenic SCD. Fatty acid analysis showed that mouse SCD1, SCD2, and SCD4 desaturate both C18:0 and C16:0, whereas mouse SCD3 uses C16:0 but not C18:0. We identify SCD3 as a mammalian palmitotyl-CoA Δ9-desaturase, and its existence in mouse helps explain distinct physiological roles for each SCD isoform.
Developing seamless shaped woven medical products.

Currently, the cutting and sewing process is utilized to produce medical products with tailored shape, which leads to a number of adverse consequences due to seams. These drawbacks have prompted us to undertake research to develop new methods by which seamless tubular woven products with inherent shape could be produced. The methods could potentially lead to the design and production of seamless shaped textiles that might be used in a wide variety of medical applications. Three variables were tested, specifically yarn shrinkage, weave designs, and thread density. A variety of samples were woven using different combinations of these variables to create structures with different shrinkage properties. Upon finishing in a solution containing a surfactant and soda ash, the structures experience different degrees of shrinkage resulting in desired shapes. Length and width dimensions of each sample were taken before and after finishing. The change in sample shape due to differential shrinkage in terms of yarn shr...
Changes in leukocyte levels associated with social-rearing condition in C57BL/10J mice

Thirty-two male C57BL/10J mice were either isolated or pair-reared from weaning until 62-71 days of age. Half of those in each rearing condition were then placed in an arena with a similarly reared mouse, following which they were cut and the total circulating leukocytes counted. The other half of the Ss were cut without being run in the arena. The results showed that leukocyte levels decreased reliably (p <.001) by groups: isolate, pair-reared, isolate/arena-tested, pair-reared/arena-tested. No fighting occurred in the arena. It is suggested that isolation-induced aggression is less likely to occur where isolation does not serve as a stressor.
Biospecific extraction and neutralization of anticoagulant heparin with fibroblast growth factors (FGF).

The polyanionic sulfated carbohydrate heparin is a mixture of anticoagulant and nonanticoagulant activity that is best known for its pharmacological benefit as an anticoagulant. The objective of this study was to design and evaluate a simple purification method for an anticoagulant fraction of heparin from a crude heparin mixture as an alternative to antithrombin. Similar to blood clotting, the fibroblast growth factor signaling system is heparan sulfate-regulated and comprised of components with structurally distinct heparin-binding domains. A rare and highly specific motif within a single heparan sulfate chain has been proposed to tether both FGF and the FGFR ectodomain together. The diversity of heparin-binding motifs within the large FGF family of polypeptides and receptors provides a repertoire of diverse templates for capture of diverse heparin/heparan sulfate motifs in biology. We show here that, similar to antithrombin, a member of the FGF family, FGF7, selectively captures anti-Factor Xa and anti-Factor IIa activity from commercially and clinically applied heparin mixtures. In the presence of purified anticoagulant heparin and derivative, FGF7 has the similar activity as protamine sulfate for reversal of anticoagulant effect, while FGF1 is much less potent than FGF7. This may provide a novel cost-effective, bioaffinity-based alternative to antithrombin for concurrent enrichment and recovery of anticoagulant and nonanticoagulant heparin from the same heparin mixture. In addition, FGF7 and homologues may be useful in pharmaceutical neutralization of anticoagulant heparin and heparan sulfate.
Can the ESPRIT results end the antiplatelet battle between neurologists and cardiologists

Cardiologists have been hesitant to prescribe extended-release dipyridamole and aspirin for stroke prevention in patients with cardiovascular disease because of concerns that this combination might increase the risk of cardiac events. Here, Gregory Albers reviews new ESPRIT data, which demonstrate that the combination is more effective than aspirin alone for the prevention of stroke in patients with a recent cerebrovascular event, and does not increase cardiac risk. Cardiologists should now be reassured that dipyridamole and aspirin is appropriate for patients with recent stroke and cardiovascular disease.
Treatment of Uncertainty in Performance Assessments for Complex Systems

When viewed at a high level, performance assessments (PAs) for complex systems involve two types of uncertainty: stochastic uncertainty, which arises because the system under study can behave in many different ways, and subjective uncertainty, which arises from a lack of knowledge about quantities required within the computational implementation of the PA. Stochastic uncertainty is typically incorporated into a PA with an experimental design based on importance sampling and leads to the final results of the PA being expressed as a complementary cumulative distribution function (CCDF). Subjective uncertainty is usually treated with Monte Carlo techniques and leads to a distribution of CCDFs. This presentation discusses the use of the Kaplan/Garrick ordered triple representation for risk in maintaining a distinction between stochastic and subjective uncertainty in PAs for complex systems. The topics discussed include (1) the definition of scenarios and the calculation of scenario probabilities and consequences, (2) the separation of subjective and stochastic uncertainties, (3) the construction of CCDFs required in comparisons with regulatory standards (e.g., 40 CFR Part 191, Subpart B for the disposal of radioactive waste), and (4) the performance of uncertainty and sensitivity studies. Results obtained in a preliminary PA for the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant, an uncertainty and sensitivity analysis of the MACCS reactor accident consequence analysis model, and the NUREG-1150 probabilistic risk assessments are used for illustration.
Quantifying the effect of riparian forest versus agricultural vegetation on river meander migration rates, central Sacramento River, California, USA

Riparian forest vegetation is widely believed to protect riverbanks from erosion, but few studies have quantified the effect of riparian vegetation removal on rates of river channel migration. Measured historical changes in a river channel centreline, combined with mapped changes in floodplain vegetation, provide an opportunity to test how riparian vegetation cover affects the erodibility of riverbanks. We analysed meander migration patterns from 1896 to 1997 for the central reach of the Sacramento River between Red Bluff and Colusa, using channel planform and vegetation cover data compiled from maps and aerial photography. We used a numerical model of meander migration to back-calculate local values for bank erodibility (i.e. the susceptibility of bank materials to erosion via lateral channel migration, normalized for variations in near-bank flow velocities due to channel curvature). A comparison of migration rates for approximately 50 years before and after the construction of Shasta dam suggests that bank migration rates and erodibility increased roughly 50%, despite significant flow regulation, as riparian floodplains were progressively converted to agriculture. A comparison of migration rates and bank erodibilities between 1949 and 1997, for reaches bordered by riparian forest versus agriculture, shows that agricultural floodplains are 80 to 150% more erodible than riparian forest floodplains. An improved understanding of the effect of floodplain vegetation on river channel migration will aid efforts to predict future patterns of meander migration for different river management and restoration scenarios. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ethical Considerations and Risks in Psychiatric Genetics: Preliminary Findings of a Study on Psychiatric Genetic Researchers

Background: There are high expectations for genetic research on psychiatric disorders. In addition to anticipating potential benefits, it is important to be aware of risks and ethical concerns. Previous studies have explored attitudes of various stakeholder groups toward psychiatric genetics research and testing. This study focuses on potential risks and ethical concerns as perceived by a hitherto untargeted stakeholder group: psychiatric genetic researchers. Methods: Thirty experts in psychiatric genetic research on schizophrenia, bipolar disorder (BP), and/or major depressive disorder (MDD) were interviewed and asked about their current research. Questions dealt with researchers’ beliefs about potential benefits, harms, and ethical concerns that could result from their work, as well as suggestions to ethically implement their research into clinical practice. Results: Respondents mainly discussed six ethical issues: (1) stigma; (2) prenatal testing and eugenics; (3) ethics of genetics research; (4) lack ...