cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Resistive companion modeling of batteries in a virtual test bed

The virtual test bed (VTB) computation environment provides an easy-to-use way for electric system modeling and simulation. Resistive companion (RC) modeling of batteries in VTB is presented in the paper. Native RC battery modeling approach and the one using current controlled voltage source (CCVS) interface are presented and compared through two battery models with different degrees of complexity. The RC battery models are validated by comparing VTB simulation data to those calculated directly through stand-alone Fortran codes. It is concluded that using CCVS interface is currently the first choice in modeling batteries in VTB. Simulations using the RC battery models in VTB are also presented and analyzed. It is shown that RC modeling provides a powerful way for the simulation of battery systems in VTB.
Measured Losses in Isolated-Phase Bus and Comparison with Calculated Values

The results of loss measurements on an isolated-phase bus are recorded and compared with values calculated by a proposed guide [1]. The calorimetric test method is described.
Rhizosphere chemical dialogues: Plant-microbe interactions

Every organism on earth relies on associations with its neighbors to sustain life. For example, plants form associations with neighboring plants, microflora, and microfauna, while humans maintain symbiotic associations with intestinal microbial flora, which is indispensable for nutrient assimilation and development of the innate immune system. Most of these associations are facilitated by chemical cues exchanged between the host and the symbionts. In the rhizosphere, which includes plant roots and the surrounding area of soil influenced by the roots, plants exude chemicals to effectively communicate with their neighboring soil organisms. Here we review the current literature pertaining to the chemical communication that exists between plants and microorganisms and the biological processes they sustain.
SPOILAGE AND HISTAMINE IN WHOLE PACIFIC HERRING (CLUPEA HARENGUS PALLASI) AND PINK SALMON (ONCORHYNCHUS GORBUSCHA) FILLETS

Fresh pink salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha) fillets and whole Pacific herring (Clupea harengus pallasi) were stored for two weeks at 10C to determine if significant amounts ofhistamine were produced before the fish spoiled. Spoilage odors in salmon were moderate by day 4 and intense by day 7, while herring had detectable spoilage by day 4 and became potent by day 6. Aerobic bacterial counts increased from 4.0 × 10 2 /g initially to 3.6 × 10 8 /g in salmon fillets by day 14 and from 2. 3 × 10 3 /g initially to 2. 7 × 10 7 /g in whole herring by day 14. Total volatile nitrogen increased from 1.8 to 78. 5 mg N/100 g in salmon and 2.2 to 23. 6 mg N/100 g in herring. Histamine was not detected in salmon, while concentrations reached 54.9 ppm in herring at day 14. However, herring were considered spoiled by day 6.
Clinical and Demographic Factors Associated With Homelessness and Incarceration Among VA Patients With Bipolar Disorder

Objectives. We assessed the association between homelessness and incarceration in Veterans Affairs patients with bipolar disorder.Methods. We used logistic regression to model each participant's risk of incarceration or homelessness after we controlled for known risk factors.Results. Of 435 participants, 12% reported recent homelessness (within the past month), and 55% reported lifetime homelessness. Recent and lifetime incarceration rates were 2% and 55%, respectively. In multivariate models, current medication adherence (based on a 5-point scale) was independently associated with a lower risk of lifetime homelessness (odds ratio [OR] = 0.80 per point, range 0–4; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.66, 0.96), and lifetime incarceration increased the risk of lifetime homelessness (OR = 4.4; 95% CI = 2.8, 6.9). Recent homelessness was associated with recent incarceration (OR = 26.4; 95% CI = 5.2, 133.4). Lifetime incarceration was associated with current substance use (OR = 2.6; 95% CI = 2.7, 6.7) after contr...
Analysis of Foot Position in Ankle Arthrodesis and Its Influence on Gait

This study was carried out on 24 patients who underwent 25 ankle fusions. Twenty-four of 25 ankles operated upon by eight different surgeons achieved a solid fusion. A review showed that when the ankle was fused in a neutral position, the patient would, on the average, have 10 degrees of plantar flexion occurring in the midfoot. This motion allowed him to wear most normal foot gear. In gait, the plantar flexion in the foot approximated the plantar flexion in the normal ankle, giving little difficulty. In contrast, those individuals whose ankle was fused in 10 degrees of plantar flexion who also had 10 degrees of plantar motion in the midfoot and no dorsiflexion motion in the midfoot were, in effect, in 10 degrees of equinus. These patients showed a vaulting pattern while ambulating barefoot, but were usually able to accommodate this position while wearing shoes. The patient with a neutral position of the foot and ankle showed a very satisfactory gait in shoes and a much improved barefoot gait. It is concluded that fusion in a neutral position is indicated and that midtarsal motion occurs in the plantar direction but that no dorsiflexion is present in the midtarsal area.
Open systems: myths and reality☆

Abstract Reading the computing press, one can be forgiven for believing that Information Technology (IT) today is largely about open systems. Unfortunately, we are rarely told precisely what ‘open systems’ means. This paper traces the origins of the open systems movement, and identifies the key business and software issues to be faced in building IT solutions for the future. It then moves on to examine the impact of these trends on both IT vendors and their customers.
The effect of acetate on the regulation of the branched chain α-keto acid and the pyruvate dehydrogenase complexes in the perfused rat liver

Abstract The regulatory consequences of acetate infusion on the pyruvate and the branched chain α-keto acid dehydrogenase reactions in the isolated, perfused rat liver were investigated. Metabolic flux through these two decarboxylation reactions was monitored by measuring the rate of 14 CO 2 production from infused 1- 14 C-labeled substrates. When acetate was presented to the liver as the sole substrate the rate of ketogenesis which resulted was maximal at concentrations of acetate in excess of 10 m m . The increase in hepatic ketogenesis during acetate infusion was not accompanied by an alteration of the mitochondrial oxidation-reduction state as measured by the ratio of β-hydroxybutyrate/ acetoacetate in the effluent perfusate. While acetate infusion did not affect the rate of α-keto[1- 14 C]isocaproate decarboxylation, the rate of α-keto[1- 14 C]isovalerate decarboxylation was stimulated appreciably upon acetate addition. No change was observed in the amount of extractable branched chain α-keto acid dehydrogenase during acetate infusion. The rate of [1- 14 C]pyruvate decarboxylation was stimulated in the presence of acetate at low ( m ) but not at high (>1 m m ) perfusate pyruvate concentrations. The stimulation of the metabolic flux through the pyruvate dehydrogenase reaction upon acetate infusion was accompanied by an increase in the activation state of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex from 25.7 to 35.6% in the active form. In a liver perfused in the presence of the pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase inhibitor, dichloroacetate, at a low concentration of pyruvate (0.05 m m ) the infusion of acetate did not affect the rate of pyruvate decarboxylation. As the rate of mitochondrial acetoacetate efflux is increased during acetate infusion the stimulation of pyruvate and α-ketoisovalerate decarboxylation is attributed to an accelerated rate of exchange of mitochondrial acetoacetate for cytosolic pyruvate or α-ketoisovalerate on the monocarboxylate transporter.
Evaluating organizational performance measures using fuzzy subsets

Abstract The authors examine the use of a matrix structure for representing collections of performance measures as ordinary subsets of organizational activities. The linkage between organizational components and their activities gives rise to a representation of collections of performance measures as fuzzy subsets of organizational components. It is shown that the fuzzy representation can be used to compare alternative collections of performance measures and provide insights to the value of these collections of measures for decisionmaking and control purposes. An example involving the performance evaluation of university professors is presented.
High temperature vanadate corrosion of yttria-stabilized zirconia coatings on mild steel

Abstract The molten vanadate corrosion of three different 8 wt.% yttria- stabilized zirconia (YSZ) coatings on mild steel at 700, 800 and 900 °C was investigated using coupons deposited with 2.5, 5 and 10 mg cm-2 of NaVO3. The NaVO3 induced a tetragonal-to-monoclinic destablization of the zirconia structure, which could be followed quantitatively by X-ray diffraction on the basis of the ratio of intensities of the monoclinic 11 1 peak to the tetragonal 111 peak. Crystals of YVO4 were also identified on the YSZ surface, confirming reaction between Y2O3 and V2O5. Addition of SO3 to the furnace air increased the destabilization rate because of higher V2O5 activity via the reaction 2NaVO3+SO3=Na2SO4+V2O5 but ultimate total destabilization was not necessarily greater. Penetration of oxygen through the NiCrAlY bond coat produced corrosion pits in the mild steel substrate at 800 and 900 °C, with oxide extrusion from the pits causing spalling of the overlying YSZ coating. Complete destabilization of YSZ at 700 °C failed to produce spalling, but perhaps because of the low 700 °C temperature and minimal thermal shock and/or thermal cycling used. This work provides insight into YSZ corrosion by molten vanadate, and establishes methodology for laboratory prescreening of the corrosion resistance of prototype stabilized zirconia coatings for engines and other applications.
Suprascapular nerve injuries with isolated paralysis of the infraspinatus

Nerve lesions are frequently overlooked in the differential diagnosis of shoulder pain, and there have been few reports in the literature of injuries of the supracapsular nerve that involve only the infraspinatus. We report four cases of suprascapular nerve injuries which involve solely the infraspinatus in which each patient presented with shoulder pain and weakness. The diagnosis can be suspected by careful history and physical examination, but must be confirmed by the appropriate electrical studies. Our patients required 6 months to 1 year to regain full function, and isokinetic testing revealed near normal return of strength. Further diagnostic work-up and surgery may be necessary for those cases which fail to demonstrate satisfactory improvement in the expected time period.
A comparative study of the lipids of plasma membranes of normal cells and those infected and transformed by Rous sarcoma virus.

Abstract Comparative studies of the phospholipids of Rous sarcoma virus (RSV)-transformed chicken embryo cells, uninfected normal cells, and cells infected but not transformed by the transformation-defective mutant of RSV td105, were done. Phospholipids of whole cells as well as those of isolated plasma membranes were analyzed by thin-layer and gas-liquid chromatography. The plasma membrane preparations used were significantly enriched in 5′-nucleotidase enzyme activity over that of whole cell homogenates. Our results indicated that transformation by RSV and infection by td105 do not significantly alter the molar ratios of the various phospholipids compared to uninfected normal cells. However, comparison of the fatty acyl chains of total phospholipid as well as isolated specific phospholipids revealed that the phospholipids of transformed cells have higher percentages of unsaturated fatty acyl chains than those of uninfected normal cells; phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), phosphatidylinositol (PI), and sphingomyelin (SP) have higher percentages of unsaturated fatty acyl chains, while phosphatidylcholine (PC) and phosphatidylserine (PS) remained unchanged. The percentages of unsaturated fatty acyl chains of PE and PI of td 105-infected cells increased, while that of PC and PS decreased resulting in no overall change. These results are consistent with the concept that altered fluidity of membranes of transformed cells is due to the selection of phospholipids with specific fatty acyl chains by new or modified proteins incorporated into the membranes of transformed and/or virus-producing cells.
Investigating metabolite-protein interactions: an overview of available techniques.

Abstract Metabolites comprise the molar majority of chemical substances in living cells, and metabolite–protein interactions are expected to be quite common. Many interactions have already been identified and have been shown to be involved in the regulation of different types of cellular processes including signaling events, enzyme activities, protein localizations and interactions. Recent technological advances have greatly facilitated the detection of metabolite–protein interactions at high sensitivity and some of these have been applied on a large scale. In this manuscript, we review the available in vitro, in silico and in vivo technologies for mapping small-molecule–protein interactions. Although some of these were developed for drug–protein interactions they can be applied for mapping metabolite–protein interactions. Information gained from the use of these approaches can be applied to the manipulation of cellular processes and therapeutic applications.
Does complexity belie a simple decision—on the Efroni and Cohen critique of the minimal model for a self–nonself discrimination

The immune system somatically generates a large and random paratopic repertoire that must be sorted into those specificities (anti-self) which, if expressed, would debilitate the host and those specificities (anti-nonself) which, if not expressed, would leave the host unprotected from infection. The critique of Efroni and Cohen that minimal models are misleading and without heuristic value is evaluated by illustrative examples.
Hydrothermal Synthesis, Structure, and Characterization of a Mixed-Valent Iron(II/III) Phosphate, NaFe3.67(PO4)3: A New Variation of the Alluaudite Structure Type

A mixed-valent Fe(II/III) phosphate, NaFe{sub 3.67}(PO{sub 4}){sub 3}, has been synthesized by high-temperature/high-pressure hydrothermal methods and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, EDAX, magnetic susceptibility, Moessbauer, infrared, and diffuse reflectance spectroscopies, DTA, and bond valence sum calculations. The compound crystallizes in the monoclinic space group C2/c (No. 15) with a = 11.881(4) {angstrom}, b = 12.564(3) {angstrom}, c = 6.522(2) {angstrom}, {beta} = 115.09(2){degree}, V = 881.7(5) {angstrom}{sup 3}, and Z = 4 with R/R{sub w} = 0.029/0.033. It exhibits a three-dimensional channel-like structure with an open framework that is similar to the naturally occurring iron-containing mineral alluaudite, NaFe{sub 3}(PO{sub 4}){sub 3}. In alluaudite there are two distinct channels, one which contains the sodium cations and the second which remains empty. In the title phase, this second channel is partially occupied by a square-planar iron atom. The Moessbauer spectral parameters are consistent with the structure and indicate that the fully occupied iron sites are octahedral Fe(II) and the square-planar iron is Fe(III). Structural comparisons to a number of phosphates and arsenates that also possess the alluaudite-type structure, including NaCu{sub 4}(AsO{sub 4}){sub 3} and NaMn{sub 4}(AsO{sub 4}){sub 3} are discussed.
Clinical and Histopathological Features of Abnormalities of the Dystrophin-Based Membrane Cytoskeleton

The majority (approximately 70%) of cases of childhood and adult onset muscular dystrophies in males, and approximately 10% of dystrophy in girls and women, show underlying primary abnormalities of dystrophin. Approximately 2% of childhood/adult onset muscular dystrophy patients have a primary defect of one of the three sarcoglycan proteins identified to date (alpha, beta, gamma). The finding of a sarcoglycan deficiency in muscle generally does not reflect the primary underlying defect, and thus testing of biopsies for sarcoglycans should be used only after normal dystrophin findings, and in conjunction with gene mutation testing. Approximately 30% of neonatal onset congenital muscular dystrophy has been shown to be due alpha 2-laminin (merosin) deficiency. alpha 2-laminin is a component of the myofiber basal lamina, and this protein interacts with the dystrophin-based membrane cytoskeleton. Due to the similar clinical and histopathological features of the different etiologies of muscular dystrophies, molecular testing of peripheral blood DNA and muscle biopsy protein are a critical part of the clinical work-up of dystrophy patients. Many patients carrying a Becker dystrophy or limb-girdle dystrophy diagnosis should be re-evaluated with molecular tests to provide accurate genetic counseling to their families.
Ganymede and Callisto - Surface textural dichotomies and photometric analysis

Complete solar phase curves of the Ganymede and Callisto leading and trailing hemispheres, which have been obtained by reducing Voyager imaging observations and combining them with ground-based telescopic data, are presently fit to scattering models in order to derive hemispherical values of the single scattering albedo, the single particle phase function (SPPF), the compaction state (CS) of the optically active portion of the regolith, and the mean slope angle of macroscopic features. While Callisto's leading side is composed of particles that are more strongly backscattering than the trailing side, no hemispheric differences are found in the CS, surface roughness, or SPPF.
Pituitary gonadotropin release patterns in pre-spawning brook trout, Salvelinusfontinalis, rainbow trout, Salmo gairdneri and leopard frogs, Rana pipiens☆

1. 1. Pituitary gonadotropins from rainbow trout, brook trout and leopard frogs were bioassayed six times daily under controlled long-day and short-day photoperiods. 2. 2. A daily pattern of gonadotropin release was observed in all three species. 3. 3. Pituitary gonadotropins were maintained between 15 and 24 μg equivalents NIH-FSH for 16 hr of each 24-hr period. 4. 4. All three species demonstrated approximately a 4-hr release period during which pituitary gonadotropin was depleted by as much as two-thirds the normal maintenance level. 5. 5. The period of maximum gonadotropin release was followed immediately by a 4-hr recovery period during which gonadotropins returned to maintenance levels. 6. 6. The basic pattern of gonadotropin release and recovery in tishes and frogs differs from release patterns established for the Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica; Follett & Sharp, 1969).
Relation of Depression and Affectivity to Career Decision Status and Self-Efficacy in College Students.

Further investigations are necessary to explore the interface between personal-emotional and career-related factors. The authors examined links between participants' emotional life, including depression and positive/negative affect, and career decision status and average level of vocationally relevant self-efficacy in a sample of 388 university students. Participants who had made a career decision were significantly less depressed, as measured by the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, than those who were undecided about their career. Furthermore, the authors found no significant difference in the average level of positive affect or negative affect, as measured by the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule, across career choice status groups. Gender accounted for 8.4% of the variation in overall average level of self efficacy, as measured by the Kuder Skills Assessment—College and Adult Version, and positive affect significantly contributed incremental variance (12.7%). The importance of add...
Inhibition by delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol of tumor necrosis factor alpha production by mouse and human macrophages.

Abstract Suppression by delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) production by macrophages has not been reported previously. The present study evaluated the effect in vitro of THC on soluble TNF-α production by cultured murine peritoneal macrophages. THC at 5 or 10 μg/ml added to medium [RPMI 1640 containing 10 ng LPS/ml, mouse IFN-γ (100 u/ml), and 0.5% bovine serum albumin (BSA)] used to induce TNF significantly decreased TNF-α production by BALB/c mouse macrophages. Macrophages pretreated with THC at 0.1, 0.5, or 1.0 μg/ml in protein-free medium for 3 h at 37°C, prior to TNF induction, also showed a decreased ability to produce TNF-α in a dose-dependent manner. Increasing the protein concentration from 0.5 to 5% BSA in the medium which was used to induce TNF prevented the inhibitory activity of THC. Human peripheral blood adherent cells treated with THC-containing medium produced less TNF-α than controls that were not exposed to THC. Thus, our data provide evidence that THC can inhibit TNF production by mouse and human macrophages. The drug's activity is concentration dependent and is related to the amount of serum protein in the medium used to induce this cytokine.
Large-Scale Conformational Changes of Trypanosoma cruzi Proline Racemase Predicted by Accelerated Molecular Dynamics Simulation

Chagas' disease, caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi), is a life-threatening illness affecting 11–18 million people. Currently available treatments are limited, with unacceptable efficacy and safety profiles. Recent studies have revealed an essential T. cruzi proline racemase enzyme (TcPR) as an attractive candidate for improved chemotherapeutic intervention. Conformational changes associated with substrate binding to TcPR are believed to expose critical residues that elicit a host mitogenic B-cell response, a process contributing to parasite persistence and immune system evasion. Characterization of the conformational states of TcPR requires access to long-time-scale motions that are currently inaccessible by standard molecular dynamics simulations. Here we describe advanced accelerated molecular dynamics that extend the effective simulation time and capture large-scale motions of functional relevance. Conservation and fragment mapping analyses identified potential conformational epitopes located in the vicinity of newly identified transient binding pockets. The newly identified open TcPR conformations revealed by this study along with knowledge of the closed to open interconversion mechanism advances our understanding of TcPR function. The results and the strategy adopted in this work constitute an important step toward the rationalization of the molecular basis behind the mitogenic B-cell response of TcPR and provide new insights for future structure-based drug discovery.
Benzo[a]pyrene-induced immunotoxicity in Japanese medaka (Oryzias latipes): relationship between lymphoid CYP1A activity and humoral immune suppression.

Abstract Exposure to the environmental contaminant benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) results in suppression of immune function in both mammalian and fish species. This laboratory has previously demonstrated that a single intraperitoneal (IP) injection of BaP reduced lymphocyte proliferation, phagocyte-mediated superoxide generation, and antibody-forming cell (AFC) numbers in Japanese medaka (Oryzias latipes). The objective of the current study was to determine the role of BaP metabolism in the observed immunosuppression. Results from rodent studies have suggested that BaP elicits its immunotoxic effects via upregulation of cytochrome P4501A1 (CYP1A1) and the subsequent production of immunosuppressive BaP metabolites. In this study, exposure of medaka to 200 μg BaP/g BW significantly induced CYP1A expression or activity within lymphoid tissue 48 h post-IP injection; induction was observed specifically within distinct subpopulations of kidney mononuclear cells. Concurrent injection of fish with BaP and the CYP1A1 inhibitors α-naphthoflavone (ANF) or dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) resulted in inhibition of renal EROD activity and amelioration of BaP-induced suppression of medaka AFC numbers. Results of this study suggest that (1) BaP-induced suppression of medaka humoral immunity relies upon the CYP1A-catalyzed production of immunotoxic BaP metabolites and (2) BaP metabolites may be created in situ, directly by specific cells within kidney lymphoid tissue. Thus, apparently, mechanisms involved in BaP-induced immunosuppression have been phylogenetically conserved from fish to mammals.
Resilience: From Program to Process

This article considers school engagement from a resilience perspective. Despite a 40-year research legacy, only recently have practitioners/researchers engaged in the explicit, prospective facilitation of resilience in school settings. Derived from the book Resilience Education (Brown, D’Emidio-Caston, & Benard, 2000), based on supporting theory and evidence, a process-based model is advanced. As an ever-present part of school participant interaction, Resilience Education (ReSed) is conducted by balancing a global youth development orientation with the specificity of supporting protective factor development. Preliminary evidence suggests high satisfaction and internalization of the model by workshop participants. Discussion focuses on the potentially unique contribution ReSed offers, as well as some pragmatic ways to begin applying it in any school practice. While more research is needed, it is concluded that ReSed offers a promising model of how “resilience” occurs, not solely as an outcome, but as a moment-to-moment learning and development process.
Petitioner's Attire and Petition Signing by Peace Demonstrators: A Field Experiment1

Two female experimenters, one dressed as a “hippie” and the other wearing “straight” dress, solicited signatures for an anti-war petition at the April 1971 Washington peace demonstration. Although the petition was identical in both conditions, and a large degree of attitudinal homogeneity in the subject population could be assumed, the hippie condition produced more signatures, more subjects who signed without looking at the petition, and attracted a larger number of unsolicited signatures. These differences were attributed to the effect of implied attitude (reference group) similarity between experimenters and subjects in the hippie and dissimilarity in the straight condition; in-group members were more effective than out-group members, despite experimenter-subject similarity in explicit attitudes under both conditions.
Biomimetic conformation-specific assembly of proteins at artificial binding sites nanopatterned on silicon.

Biomolecules such as enzymes and antibodies possess binding sites where the molecular architecture and the physicochemical properties are optimum for their interaction with a particular target, in some cases even differentiating between stereoisomers. Here, we mimic this exquisite specificity via the creation of a suitable chemical environment by fabricating artificial binding sites for the protein calmodulin (CaM). By downscaling well-known surface chemical modification methodologies to the nanometer scale via silicon nanopatterning, the Ca2+−CaM conformer was found to selectively bind the biomimetic binding sites. The methodology could be adapted to mimic other protein-receptor interactions for sensing and catalysis.
Single-particle energies and density of states in density functional theory

Time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT) is commonly used as the foundation to obtain neutral excited states and transition weights in DFT, but does not allow direct access to density of states and single-particle energies, i.e. ionisation energies and electron affinities. Here we show that by extending TD-DFT to a superfluid formulation, which involves operators that break particle-number symmetry, we can obtain the density of states and single-particle energies from the poles of an appropriate superfluid response function. The standard Kohn– Sham eigenvalues emerge as the adiabatic limit of the superfluid response under the assumption that the exchange– correlation functional has no dependence on the superfluid density. The Kohn– Sham eigenvalues can thus be interpreted as approximations to the ionisation energies and electron affinities. Beyond this approximation, the formalism provides an incentive for creating a new class of density functionals specifically targeted at accurate single-particle eigenvalues and bandgaps.
TOTAL BODY WATER IN NEONATAL SUWANNEE TERRAPINS, PSEUDEMYS CONCINNA SUWANNIENSIS CARR.

Abstract 1. 1. Determination by the desiccation method of the total body water of twelve Pseudemys concinna suwanniensis sibling hatchling turtles yielded total body water values ranging from 72·4 to 73·9 per cent of gross body weight. 2. 2. This small variation (coefficient of variability = 0·73) is thought to be primarily a result of individual physiological differences among siblings.
Optimality vs. variability: an example of multi-finger redundant tasks

Two approaches to motor redundancy, optimization and the principle of abundance, seem incompatible. The former predicts a single, optimal solution for each task, while the latter assumes that families of equivalent solutions are used. We explored the two approaches using a four-finger pressing task with the requirement to produce certain combination of total normal force and a linear combination of normal forces that approximated the total moment of force in static conditions. In the first set of trials, many force-moment combinations were used. Principal component (PC) analysis showed that over 90% of finger force variance was accounted for by the first two PCs. The analytical inverse optimization (ANIO) approach was applied to these data resulting in quadratic cost functions with linear terms. Optimal solutions formed a hyperplane ("optimal plane") in the four-dimensional finger force space. In the second set of trials, only four force-moment combinations were used with multiple repetitions. Finger force variance within each force-moment combination in the second set was analyzed within the uncontrolled manifold (UCM) hypothesis. Most finger force variance was confined to a hyperplane (the UCM) compatible with the required force-moment values. We conclude that there is no absolute optimal behavior, and the ANIO yields the best fit to a family of optimal solutions that differ across trials. The difference in the force-producing capabilities of the fingers and in their moment arms may lead to deviations of the "optimal plane" from the subspace orthogonal to the UCM. We suggest that the ANIO and UCM approaches may be complementary in the analysis of motor variability in redundant systems.
Near-Repeat Patterns in Philadelphia Shootings

Research from property crime studies has identified a near-repeat phenomenon, where the risk of repeat burglary victimization is transmitted from a burgled location to nearby locations for a limited amount of time. This article explores the potential for near-repeat patterns to exist in another crime type, specifically the incidence of shootings. Using new tools developed to quantify the spatio-temporal patterns of near-repeats, a study in Philadelphia, U.S.A. finds that there are elevated patterns of near-repeat shootings within 2 weeks and one city block of previous incidents. The elevated risk of a shooting during this period is found to be 33 per cent greater than expected. It is speculated that possible reasons include coercion, retaliation and escalation. Given that the study takes place against the backdrop of a police operation to mitigate retaliatory shootings, the potential for using this information to influence crime prevention policy is discussed.
Poly adenylic acid sequences in mitochondrial RNA.

Abstract RNA isolated from a mammalian mitochondria was investigated for Poly-A sequences. 34–39% of mitochondrial RNA was found to contain Poly-A as tested by two different techniques. The Poly-A sequences are 150–180 nucleotides (4–5S) long. The possibility of poly-A containing RNA being a cytoplasmic contaminant was excluded by treating mitochondria with RNAse and digitonin.
Influence of tourism on handcraft evolution

Abstract Some villages in Oaxaca, Mexico, have traditional techniques of producing textiles. Originally, craftpersons wove textiles for use within their community or for local trade. These textiles retained their local appeal until they were replaced by commercially produced items. Some entrepreneurial craftpersons in Teotitlan del Valle, Oaxaca, provide examples of artisans who have developed tourist and export markets for their handcrafted textiles. Craftpersons in Teotitlan del Valle were studied to understand product change in an evolving market system among producers, vendors, and consumers. A classification scheme, describing changes in products, markets, and consumer preferences, identified three periods of product and market evolution. The findings can be applied to other settings as generic stages of handcraft change in an evolving market system
The processing and disposition of incompetent mentally ill offenders

Pretrial hospitalization of mentally ill offenders has been increasing in recent years and a number of abuses have been noted with respect to competency to stand trial. This is a report on 431 male felony defendants who were found incompetent to stand trial, hospitalized, and returned to court for a final disposition. Approximately one-half of those brought back to the court gained release to the community, with one-half continuing to be held in a hospital or a prison, and with 70% continuing in treatment in one setting or another. Disposition was significantly related to race, criminal history, severity of charges, and the recommendations of mental health professionals. Offenders were found to have spent unnecessarily long periods of time in jail and in the hospital awaiting court processing, raising questions about the fairness and efficiency of current procedures.
Effects of biotechnology byproducts and organic acids on nitrification in soils

Recent developments in biotechnology industries produce increasing amounts of byproducts with potential uses in agriculture. The present research focused on the nitrification of NH inf4 sup+ -N in biotechnology byproducts added to soils, and on the effects of 29 naturally occurring organic acids (19 aliphatic and 10 aromatic) on nitrification in soils. A 10-g soil sample was incubated for 10 days at 30°C with 2.0 mg NH inf4 sup+ -N in a byproduct or with 10 or 50 μmol organic acid and 2.0 mg reagent-grade NH inf4 sup+ -N. In condensed molasses-fermentation solubles, produced during the microbial fermentation of sugar derived from corn (Zea mays L.) and molasses derived from beets (Beta sp.), in the production of lysine as a supplement in animal food, the nitrification of NH inf4 sup+ -N was similar to that of byproduct or reagent-grade (NH4)2SO4. Nitrite accumulated when either of these materials was added to a calcareous Canisteo soil. The NH inf4 sup+ -N in slops (produced during microbial fermentation processes occurring in the production of citric acid) was not nitrified in soils. Some organic acids inhibited, whereas others activated, nitrification in soils. Formic, acetic, and fumaric acids enhanced the production of NO inf2 sup- -N in a calcareous Canisteo soil, whereas all other aliphatic and aromatic acids studied decreased the accumulation of NO inf2 sup- -N. It is concluded that the addition or production of organic acids in soils affects the microbial dynamics, leading to significant changes in rates of nitrification and possibly in other N-transformation processes in soils.
Discrepancies in frozen section mucosal margin tissue in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma.

Background Head and neck surgeons commonly request frozen sections. Practice patterns vary from laboratory to laboratory on how the tissue is used in performing the frozen section. Some pathologists wish to see all the material submitted by consuming it completely during frozen section, whereas others reserve some for permanent section. We wished to determine whether knowledge of margin status was initially inaccurate because of reserving tissue for permanent section. Methods Sixty-five laryngectomies (total and partial) with margin assessment enhanced by frozen section evaluation were studied. Forty-five laryngectomy specimens, generating 249 frozen sections in which a permanent section was prepared from tissue remaining from frozen section examination, were studied. Results Five of the 249 frozen sections contained a discrepancy between the frozen section and permanent section because of insufficient leveling of the frozen section block. These five discrepancies were called negative on frozen section, but permanent section revealed dysplasia (two cases of mild dysplasia, one case with moderate dysplasia, and one case with severe dysplasia) or carcinoma in situ (one case). Twenty laryngectomies in which the frozen section tissue was consumed at the time of frozen section generated 103 frozen sections. In eight of the frozen sections involving six cases, the diagnostic tissue was not present on one or two of the frozen section levels examined. Conclusions We conclude that in examining margins for laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma the frozen section tissue should be completely sampled by examining several levels at the time of frozen section. This requires consuming or exhausting the frozen section tissue rather than reserving any remaining frozen tissue for a paraffin-embedded permanent section. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 24: 262–267, 2002; DOI 10.1002/hed.10024
Expression of matrix metalloproteinases in the muscle of patients with inflammatory myopathies.

Objective: To investigate the role of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in the pathogenesis of inflammatory myopathies and the amyloid formation in sporadic inclusion body myositis (s-IBM). Background: MMPs comprise a family of calcium-dependent zinc endoproteinases induced by cytokines and secreted by inflammatory cells. They enhance T-cell migration or adhesion and degrade components of the extracellular matrix proteins. Some MMPs also have been implicated in the formation of β-amyloid. Methods: We examined the expression of MMPs with single and double immunocytochemistry using antibodies against MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-7, MMP-9, major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I, CD8 + cells, macrophage, and β-amyloid precursor protein (β-APP) on serial muscle biopsy sections from patients with s-IBM, polymyositis (PM), dermatomyositis (DM), and disease control specimens. The enzyme activity of MMPs was measured by gelatin substrate zymography. Results: Only the gelatinases, MMP-9 and MMP-2, were expressed in the muscle. In s-IBM and PM, but not the control specimens, MMP-9 and MMP-2 immunostained the non-necrotic and MHC class-I-expressing muscle fibers, and MMP-9, but not MMP-2, immunostained the autoinvasive CD8 + cytotoxic T cells. Zymography in muscle homogenates confirmed the increased MMP-2 and MMP-9 enzymatic activity. MMP-2, but not MMP-9, immunostained the rimmed vacuoles in s-IBM and colocalized with β-APP, suggesting a possible involvement with the amyloid deposits. Conclusions: Because collagen IV is prominent on the muscle membrane, the overexpression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) 2 and 9 on the non-necrotic muscle fibers in polymyositis (PM) and sporadic inclusion body myositis (s-IBM) may facilitate lymphocyte adhesion and enhance T-cell-mediated cytotoxicity by degrading extracellular matrix proteins. The findings may have practical implications in considering therapeutic trials with MMP inhibitors in patients with PM and s-IBM.
Susceptibility of the cabbage looper, Trichoplusia ni, and the velvetbean caterpillar, Anticarsia gemmatalis, to several isolates of the entomopathogenic fungus Nomuraea rileyi

Abstract Cabbage looper larvae, Trichoplusia ni , were equally susceptible to isolates of the entomogenous fungus Nomuraea rileyi from Missouri, Mississippi, and Brazil; an isolate from Florida was 7–17 times less active than the other isolates. Velvetbean caterpillars, Anticarsia gemmatalis , were either only slightly susceptible or not susceptible to the isolates of N. rileyi from Missouri, Florida, and Mississippi. In contrast, larvae of A. gemmatalis cultured from three locations (Missouri, Florida, and Brazil) all were equally susceptible to a Brazilian isolate of N. rileyi .
ratios in seagrasses

Seagrasses have a wide range of δ 13C values. For 47 species from 12 genera, the values were within the range of −3.0 to −19.0%0. Only two species, Halophila tricostata Greenway and Halophila beccarii Aschers., had lower values, of −20.8 and −23.8%0, respectively. Among the 12 genera, Syringodium and Enhalus had the highest mean values and Phyllospadix and Amphibolis had the lowest mean values. The δ 13C values for most seagrasses are within the range usually associated with C4 metabolism, but the status of seagrasses as members of this photosynthetic group has not been confirmed by morphological and physiological studies. The high variability in δ 13C values may reflect a variable photosynthetic metabolism.
Nimodipine pretreatment improves cerebral blood flow and reduces brain edema in conscious rats subjected to focal cerebral ischemia.

The effect of nimodipine pretreatment on CBF and brain edema was studied in conscious rats subjected to 2.5 h of focal cortical ischemia. An infusion of nimodipine (2 micrograms/kg/min i.v.) or its vehicle, polyethylene glycol 400, was begun 2 h before the ischemic interval and was continued throughout the survival period. Under brief halothane anesthesia, the animals' right middle cerebral and common carotid arteries were permanently occluded, and 2.5 h later, they underwent a quantitative CBF study ([14C]iodoantipyrine autoradiography followed by Quantimet 970 image analysis). Nimodipine treatment improved blood flow to the middle cerebral artery territory without evidence of a "vascular steal" and reduced the volume of the ischemic core (cortex with CBF of less than 25 ml/100 g/min) and accompanying edema by approximately 50% when compared with controls (p = 0.006 and 0.0004, respectively). Mild hypotension induced by nimodipine did not aggravate the ischemic insult. The ischemic core volumes, however, were 50-75% smaller than the 24-h infarct volumes generated in a similar paradigm that demonstrated 20-30% infarct reduction with continuous nimodipine treatment. These results suggest that nimodipine pretreatment attenuates the severity of early focal cerebral ischemia, but that with persistent ischemia, cortex surrounding the ischemic core undergoes progressive infarction and the early benefit of nimodipine treatment is only partly preserved.
Neoadjuvant Androgen Deprivation Therapy Leads to Immediate Impairment of Vitality/Hormonal and Sexual Quality of Life: Results of a Multicenter Prospective Study

Objective To evaluate the immediate effects of neoadjuvant androgen deprivation therapy (NADT) on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) among patients undergoing radiation therapy (RT) for newly diagnosed prostate cancer. Methods The Prostate Cancer Outcomes and Satisfaction with Treatment Quality Assessment Consortium is a prospective multi-institutional study. HRQOL is measured with the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite-26 questionnaire. Differences in patient-reported HRQOL were observed between pretreatment and 2 months after NADT start (and before definitive RT) with significant differences evaluated by paired t test. Results From among 450 patients who completed the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite-26 before and 2 months after NADT start, 71 received NADT before proceeding with definitive RT. Patients receiving NADT experienced significant impairment in vitality/hormonal (P Conclusion In this analysis, patients receiving NADT experience significant impairment in sexual and vitality/hormonal HRQOL even before starting definitive RT. The significant effect of this therapy on HRQOL needs to be considered before initiating NADT in men where there is no clear evidence of clinical benefit.
Storage proteins in ants during development and colony founding

Three classes of storage proteins from larvae of four species of ants (Crematogaster opuntiae, Pheidole spadonia, Solenopsis xyloni and Conomyrma sp.) were identified and characterized for native and subunit sizes, density and amino acid composition. First, hexamerins contained moderately high proportions of aromatic amino acids (x = 12.9 mol%). A second type of storage protein contained extremely high proportions of glutamine/glutamic acid (x = 21.1 mol%). Third, dimeric proteins had densities suggesting they were very high density lipoproteins (VHDL). These VHDLs may be homologous with similar proteins that carry chromophores in Lepidoptera. The same types of storage proteins found in larvae were also present in the fat bodies of adult queens at the time of their mating flights. The class of the dominant protein varied with species. In Cr. opuntiae queens, storage proteins were almost completely depleted during colony founding. In ants, the ability of adult females to express storage protein genes may have been an important step in the evolution of the claustral mode of colony initiation, in which females can produce the first set of workers without leaving the nest to search of food.
LH syndrome and brain catecholamine levels after lesions of the nigrostriatal bundle.

Abstract Lesions of the nigrostriatal bundle (NSB), whose fibers pass through the medial portions of the internal capsule and the immediately adjacent lateral hypothalamus (LH), produced a more severe aphagia, adipsia, and disturbance of water regulation than did lesions of the medial forebrain bundle (MFB). When deprived of food, animals with NSB lesions drank significantly less than controls and animals with MFB lesions. NSB lesions also produced greater decreases in telencephalic content of the catecholamines than MFB lesions, while the reverse was true for serotonin. Water intake during food deprivation was highly correlated with telencephalic catecholamine levels in animals with NSB lesions. Thus, the inability to regulate water intake in the absence of food, one of the characteristic and long lasting effects of the LH syndrome, appears to be due to destruction of the NSB and the consequent decline in telencephalic content of catecholamines.