cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
“Primer” in DNA Polymerase Reactions

Publisher Summary This chapter reviews two degrees of primer activation. The first concerns the secondary structure of the DNA molecule, and for the calf thymus and phage-induced E. coli polymerase this type of activation, typically produced by heat, acid, or alkaline denaturation, results in rate increases of one to two orders of magnitude. The second type of primer activation results from changes in the primary structure of the DNA chain and is typically seen in sonicated or enzymatically degraded primers. A uniform interpretation of the second type of activation based on the improved kinetic situation resulting from chain shortening seems a most useful generalization. The validity of this interpretation in detail still depends, however, upon a careful and thorough study of the kinetic constants in the sonicated primer systems. Extension of this interpretation to enzymatically degraded primers is probably a gross oversimplification, and in this instance adequate characterization of the degraded primers is an impossible task. The chapter discusses that certain aspects of primer function in DNA synthesis are susceptible to experiment. The final disposition of primer molecules is amenable to centrifugal experiments with various isotopic labels, and, in enzymes utilizing denatured primers, to separation on methylated albumin columns followed by physical analysis. An evaluation of the kinetics of DNA synthesis utilizing a variety of the chemical and physical agents that can affect primer activity may also be fruitful in evaluating replication mechanisms, although the complete analysis of a system with such complexity seems, at times, presumptuous.
Industrial plantation forestry: Do local communities benefit?

Abstract This paper critically examines the local community benefits associated with intensively managed industrial roundwood plantations (IMPIRs). It is based on a review of existing literature. I focus on three issues: natural resource access and control, job creation, and the effects of creating forest reserves as a corollary of establishing industrial roundwood plantations. The cases reviewed here indicate that IMPIRs often bring about land ownership concentration, loss of customary rights of resource access, rural displacement, and socioeconomic decline in neighboring communities. Beneficiaries include large rural landowners who sell or lease their land to forestry companies, and people who are able to find jobs in the forestry sector. IMPIRs do not appear to provide enough quality jobs to stimulate community development, and rarely benefit people who are already politically and economically marginalized. The paper concludes by suggesting ways in which plantation forestry can become more integrated w...
The Rectal Exam

The way I remember it now, I spent much of my medical internship doing things to people—uncomfortable, even unnecessary things—at odd hours to seem thorough on rounds.
Differentiation of sex steroid-binding protein in adult rhesus monkeys.

Abstract Several species of primates have sex differences in sex steroid-binding protein (SBP), female adults having higher serum binding capacities (micrograms of dihydrotestosterone bound per deciliter) than male adults, e.g., male humans, 1.28 ± 0.4; human females, 2.86 ± 0.9; Macaca nemestrina male animals, 5.62 ± 1.24; Macaca nemestrina female animals, 11.07 ± 1.85 (means ± standard deviations). SBP correlates inversely with metabolic clearance rates of testosterone (T). The sex difference was identified in rhesus monkeys, six per group, evaluated 4 years after postpubertal castration: male animals 3.95 ± 1.14; female animals 5.85 ± 0.98 (p 2 ) pellets producing physiologic levels of E 2 in female monkeys obliterated the sex difference by increasing SBP in male animals. After withdrawal of E 2 , physiologic levels of T in male monkeys produced a marked decrease in SBP levels (p
Isolation and characterization of Escherichia coli mutants able to utilize the novel pentose L-ribose.

Abstract Wild-type strains of Escherichia coli were unable to utilize L-ribose for growth. However, L-ribose-positive mutants could be isolated from strains of E. coli K-12 which contained a ribitol operon. L-ribose-positive strains of E. coli, isolated after 15 to 20 days, had a growth rate of 0.22 generation per h on L-ribose. Growth on L-ribose was found to induce the enzymes of the L-arabinose and ribitol pathways, but only ribitol-negative mutants derived from strains originally L-ribose positive lost the ability to grow on L-ribose, showing that a functional ribitol pathway was required. One of the mutations permitting growth on L-ribose enabled the mutants to produce constitutively an NADPH-linked reductase which converted L-ribose to ribitol. L-ribose is not metabolized by an isomerization to L-ribulose, as would be predicted on the basis of other pentose pathways in enteric bacteria. Instead, L-ribose was metabolized by the reduction of L-ribose to ribitol, followed by the conversion to D-ribulose by enzymes of the ribitol pathway.
Optimizing AUV oceanographic surveys

The objective of an oceanographic survey is to obtain the best understanding of the phenomena under study for a given amount of expended effort. This problem is complicated by the fact that the ocean usually evolves on a time scale comparable to (or faster than) the survey time. The ideal survey would be accomplished instantaneously and with infinite resolution. However, as platform limitations preclude such synoptic surveys, compromises between resolution, total survey time, and vehicle speed must be made. This paper presents a framework for optimizing uniform surveys of temporally evolving scalar fields under platform introduced constraints. Knowledge of the statistical characteristics of the ocean and the dominant physical processes are assumed. Advection is assumed to be negligible as a driving factor in temporal variations. The survey error, given by the squared difference between the true and reconstructed field, is determined as a function of the survey parameters. These in turn are subject to the physical limitations of the vehicle. Combining these constraints, we arrive at a tool which can be used to maximize survey efficiency and to assess relative efficiencies of various adaptive sampling techniques.
Accuracy of a technology-assisted eye exam in evaluation of referable diabetic retinopathy and concomitant ocular diseases

Background/aims Digital retinal imaging using store-and-forward technology is used to screen for diabetic retinopathy (DR). Its usefulness in detecting non-diabetic eye diseases is uncertain. We determined the level of agreement between teleretinal imaging supplemented with visual acuity and intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements (ie, technology-assisted eye (TAE) exam) and a comprehensive eye exam in evaluation for DR and non-diabetic ocular conditions. Methods We conducted a prospective, observational study with two parallel evaluations. Patients with diabetes (n=317) had a TAE exam and a comprehensive eye exam on the same day. A subset of participants with normal baseline exams (n=72) had follow-up exams 1 year later. We measured the level of agreement for referable ocular findings. Results Agreement for referable ocular findings was moderate (n=389, agreement: 77%; κ: 0.55), due in part to ungradable exams (22%). However, about half of the ungradable exams had findings that warranted referral. There was substantial agreement for follow-up exams (n=72, agreement: 93%; κ: 0.63). Among all gradable exams (n=303), the TAE exam had 86% sensitivity and 84% specificity for referable ocular findings, with high agreement (≥94%) for DR and other major ocular diagnoses. Conclusions There was moderate-to-substantial agreement between a TAE exam and a comprehensive eye exam for referable ocular findings in patients with diabetes. Ungradable exams were a frequent marker of ocular pathology. Teleretinal imaging may be a useful evaluation for both diabetic and non-diabetic ocular conditions.
Phenotypic and functional activation of monocytes in HIV-1 infection: interactions with neural cells.

To investigate mechanisms that facilitate transendothelial migration of HIV-infected leukocytes and their interactions with neural tissues early in the dis- ease, we studied peripheral blood from Centers for Dis- ease Control class A patients. Patients' monocytes dis- played increased quantities of the adhesion molecules CDlla, CD11b, and very late antigen 4 (VLA-4). Expres- sion of these correlated directly with the numbers of monocytes that migrated through confluent endothelium. These ligands also mediated leukocyte interactions with cultured human neural cell lines. Although patients' cells bound in greater numbers, there was no evidence of target cell injury. To evaluate the direct effect of HIV-l on monocyte neuroadhesion, we compared infected with infected monocytoid (U-937,THP-l) and T lympho- blastoid (MT-4) cell lines. HIV infection increased the neuroadhesiveness of monocytoid lines only. By using lines with more than 95% HIV-infected cells, we demon- strated that HIV-l gpl2O participates with lymphocyte function-associated antigen 1 and VLA-4 to mediate monocyte-neural cell interactions. J. Leukoc. Biol. 56: 310-317; 1994.
Hurricane evacuation route choice of major bridges in Miami Beach, Florida

Evacuation is a typical recourse to prevent loss of life if a high storm surge occurs, especially in hurricane-prone regions. Bridges are the key locations of bottlenecks. Because of the specific geographic shape and roadway network of Miami Beach, Florida, residents need to evacuate over one of the six major bridges or causeways: MacArthur Causeway, Venetian Causeway, Julia Tuttle Causeway, John F. Kennedy Causeway, Broad Causeway, and Haulover Bridge. A mixed logit model is presented to identify the determining factors for evacuees from Miami Beach in selecting one of these bridges during a major hurricane. The model was developed by using data obtained from a survey that included a hypothetical Category 4 (major) hurricane scenario to reveal the most likely plans for evacuees from this area. The estimation findings suggest that the preference over a given bridge involves a complex interaction of variables, such as distance to reach the evacuation destination, evacuation-specific characteristics (evacuation day, time, mode, and destination), and evacuee-specific characteristics (gender, race, evacuation experience, and living experience). The normally distributed random parameters in the model account for the existence of unobserved heterogeneity across different observations. The findings of this study will help emergency officials and policy makers to develop efficient operational measures and better evacuation plans for a major hurricane by determining different fractions of people taking each of the six bridges.
Specialized Studies. PRIMATE LOCOMOTION AND MANIPULATION

Book reviewed in this article: Pan troglodytes (Pongidae). Walking on All Fours. Chimpanzee. By P. LEYHAUSEN Pan troglodytes (Pongidae). Walking Upright. Chimpanzee. By P. LEYHAUSEN Homo sapiens (Hominidae). Walking I (boy, aged 11 months). By H. F. R. PRECHTL Homo sapiens (Hominidae). Walking II (girl, aged 12 months). By H. F. R. PRECHTL Pan troglodytes (Pongidae). Walking on All Fours II. Chimpanzee. By P. LEYHAUSEN Gorilla gorilla (Pongidae). Walking on All Fours. Gorilla. By P. LEYHAUSEN Simia satyrus (Pongidae). Walking on All Fours. Orangutan. By P. LEYHAUSEN Homo sapiens (Hominidae). Creeping I (boy, aged 10 months). By H. F. R. PRECHTL Homo sapiens (Hominidae). Creeping II (boy, aged 10 months). By H. F. R. PRECHTL Homo sapiens (Hominidae). Getting up into a Sitting Position (girl, aged 4 months). By H. F. R. PRECHTL Homo sapiens (Hominidae). Getting up to a Standing Position (boy, aged 11 months). By H. F. R. PRECHTL
Spectrophotometric determination of aliphatic aldehyde 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazones with 3-methyl-2-benzothiazolinone hydrazone

Abstract A sensitive new spectrophotometric procedure is described for the analysis of aliphatic aldehyde 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazones. The chromogens formed in the procedure absorb at 667 mμ and are approximately three times as intense at this band as the starting aldehyde derivatives are in neutral and alkaline solvent at their wavelength maxima. With further improvement the procedure is capable of even greater sensitivity. Other aliphatic aldehyde derivatives also should be analyzable by this procedure, but 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazones of ketones do not react.
Order of amino acid limitation in meat and bone meal

Abstract Three experiments were conducted to determine the order of amino acid (AA) limitation in meat and bone meal (MBM) using AA addition and deletion assays. In two addition assays, various individual and combined additions of eight AA were made to semipurified basal diets containing 16% protein solely from a MBM. The two MBM had previously been determined to vary greatly in protein quality. In the deletion assay, a semipurified basal diet containing 13.5% CP provided solely by MBM was supplemented with L-Thr, L-Val, DL-Met, L-Leu, L-Ile, L-Phe, L-Tyr, L-Lys-HCl, L-His, and L-Trp to fulfill the Illinois Ideal Protein or AA pattern on a digestible basis. Each AA was then deleted individually from the basal diet, and the effect of its deletion on growth performance was assessed. In both addition assays, supplementation of the MBM basal diet with Trp and Cys together yielded a large increase in growth performance, whereas supplementation with these AA individually had no effect. These results indicated that Trp and sulfur AA (with a primary need for Cys) were equally first limiting in the MBM. The order of limitation for the other AA was unclear. The results of the deletion assay showed that deletion of Trp, Thr, Phe + Tyr, Ile, Met, Lys, Val, or His significantly depressed growth performance. The results of the combined addition and deletion experiments indicated that the order of AA limitation in MBM was 1) Trp and sulfur AA, 2) Thr, 3) Ile and Phe + Tyr, 4) Met, 5) Lys, and 6) Val and His. The deletion assay using diets formulated on an ideal protein basis was more effective than the addition assay for determining the order of AA limitation in MBM.
Local translational control in dendrites and its role in long‐term synaptic plasticity

Local protein synthesis in dendrites has emerged as a key mechanism contributing to enduring forms of synaptic plasticity. Although the translational capability of dendrites has been appreciated for over 20 years, it is only recently that significant progress has been made in elucidating mechanisms that contribute to its regulation. It is clear from work over the last few years that the control of translation in dendrites is complex, involving a host of unique (and often surprising) mechanisms that can operate together or in parallel to tightly control gene expression in time and space. Here, we discuss the strategies used by neurons to regulate translation in dendrites and how these are implemented in the service of long-term information storage.
An electrophysiological characterization of ventral tegmental area dopaminergic neurons during differential pavlovian fear conditioning in the awake rabbit.

Abstract Recent research has suggested that the mesencephalic dopaminergic (DA) system is activated by stress. For example, alterations in DA metabolites have been found in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) following footshock and immobilization in the rat 15 , 37 . Furthermore, this activation appears selective to DA neurons within the VTA since no changes were observed within the substantia nigra 15 , 16 . While this research suggests that DA neurons in the VTA are activated by aversive events, there has been a paucity of electrophysiological research designed to examine the sensory response characteristics of these DA neurons, and in particular their response to stimuli which predict aversive events. The present study was conducted to investigate the response characteristics of DA neurons within the VTA of the awake rabbit to acoustic stimuli which, via Pavlovian aversive conditioning procedures, came to predict the occurrence of a mild shock to the pinna. 45% of the neurons meeting pre-established criteria for DA neurons demonstrated either significant excitation or inhibition to conditioned aversive stimuli. These neurons responded differentially to CS+ and CS− presentations. Some of these neurons (65%) demonstrated a greater increase in activity during the CS+ compared to the CS−, some (22%) demonstrated a greater decrease in activity during the CS+ compared to the CS− and some (13%) demonstrated a greater increase in activity during the CS− compared to the CS+. Further, conditioned heart rate responses in the rabbits occurred during the recording of a majority of these neurons. These overall results suggest that conditioned aversive stimuli can affect the firing of VTA DA neurons and that these neurons comprise a heterogenous population with respect to their response profiles.
An Implantable Blood Pressure and Flow Transmitter

A miniature totally implantable FM/FM telemetry system has been developed to simultaneously measure blood pressure and blood flow, thus providing an appreciation of the hemodynamics of the circulation to the entire body or to a particular organ. Developed for work with animal subjects, the telemetry system's transmission time is controlled by an RF signal that permits an operating life of several months.
Molecular mechanics modeling of oligonucleotide adducts of the antitumor drug cis‐diamminedichloroplatinum(II)

In order to assess the geometric changes caused when the antitumor drug cis-diammine-dichloroplatinum(II) (cis-DDP) binds to DNA, molecular mechanics calculations were performed on two double-stranded and two single-stranded oligonucleotides and their adducts with cis-{Pt(NH3)2}2+. For the platinated duplexes, three model structures have been derived, one involving only local disruption of base pairing with retention of the helix directionality, and two models showing pronounced kinking of the double helix. One of the kinked models is stabilized by bridging sodium ions. The other kinked duplex model shows retention of all Watson–Crick base pairing, including that of the coordinated guanines. All models exhibit hydrogen bonds connecting one ammine ligand of platinum with one or two phosphate groups located at the 5′ side of the platinated strand.
High pressure investigation of the photoluminescence of porous silicon

Abstract The effect of pressure on the luminescence of porous Si has been considered. We observe a blue shift in the luminescence peak position up to ≈ 25 kbar followed by a red shift above 25 kbar. We interpret our results in the context of a pressure-induced direct-indirect transition in porous Si.
NETL and subsequent path-based inheritance theories

Scott Fahlman's NETL project, completed as an MIT dissertation in 1977, arose out of concern with the problem of high-performance knowledge representation in AI systems. Fahlman proposed a system in which network representations would be implemented on a parallel architecture designed to carry out inheritance reasoning efficiently. David Touretzky's later work, completed in 1984 as a CMU dissertation, exhibits conceptual and computational problems in NETL, and addresses these by developing a theory of inheritance reasoning and associated parallel marker propagation algorithms. This theory, in which paths through networks are analogous to proofs in logic, has become an active area of research in knowledge representation. The methods are like those of logic, but the research concentrates on formalisms that are expressively weak compared to familiar logics, but which may allow inference procedures that are tractable. This paper tries to provide some perspective on the theory, concepts, and current research trends in this field.
Sex in Context: Space, Place, and the Constitution of Images

This paper examines the changing context for sexual images and the spaces that give law meaning. The details are evident in Congressional efforts to regulate sex on the Internet and the Supreme Court’s response as well as changing contexts for encountering forbidden images from the old stag films and peep shows to the local public library and sex sites on the web. The paper is part of a larger project on seeing law and the idea that Lady Justice is blind.
Dynamics of a multi-color laser system based on filtered feedback

A multi-color laser system consisting of a diode laser with strong and weak filtered feedback is studied using a broadband numerical simulator. Different dynamics are observed and described: a coherent four wave mixing regime and a multi-mode semi-coherent regime, both of which have been observed in experiments.
Making a living in pre-colonial Tunisia: the sea, contraband and other illicit activities, c. 1830–81

Employing pre-colonial Tunisia as a site, this article investigates ways of ‘making a living’ in an age of migrations. It studies occupations linked to the sea, such as fishing or coastal trading, that integrated North Africa and the nearby islands into trans-Mediterranean and larger exchange systems. It argues that subsistence migration increased the volume of extra-legal transactions whose nodal points were the Tunis region, the Cap Bon, Bizerte, Algeria and nearby islands. Estimates of the trade's volume or value, impossible to determine given the sources, are less important than charting dense flows of labour, goods, services and capital under-girding the political economy of contraband in relationship to labour migration. That the actors involved hailed from different religions, ethnic groups and classes renders this a perfect vantage point for probing inter-communal and intra-confessional relationships as well as the declining political fortunes of the Tunisian state.
Pearls and perils in the management of prolonged, peculiar, penetrating esophageal foreign bodies in children

Abstract Background/Purpose: Most retained esophageal foreign bodies (FB) are identified soon after ingestion and are easily extracted. A minority of FB ingestions are not identified for weeks to years and present significant problems for retrieval. The purpose of this study was to describe the diagnostic and therapeutic strategies needed to care for children who have chronic esophageal FBs. Methods: Five children were identified as having retained esophageal FBs 2 months to 2 years after ingestion. During the same 3-year period, 100 children who had acute FBs were identified and had their foreign bodies removed endoscopically. The average age of the children was 3 years (range, 2.4 to 3.5). Results: The average age of the five children identified in this study was 3 years. The items ingested included coins, a heart pendant, a clothespin spring, and a toy soldier. Complications from chronically retained foreign bodies were bronchoesophageal fistula, mediastinitis, esophageal diverticulum, and lobar atelectasis. One patient died from an aortoesophageal fistula. In all children, endoscopic removal was attempted. Barium esophagram was then performed, and foreign bodies were eventually removed via right thoracotomy. Conclusions: Long-retained esophageal FBs are extremely morbid and life threatening. History most often identifies excess salivation, new onset asthma, and/or recurrent upper respiratory infections. Three diagnostic adjuncts are helpful in identifying the presence of a long retained FB: (1) Chest x-ray (PA and lateral), (2) barium swallow, and (3) esophagoscopy. Indications for thoracotomy for removal of foreign body include (1) Poor endoscopic visualization of FB because of inflammatory tissue and (2) Herald bleeding during endoscopy.
A single‐point dixon technique for fat‐suppressed fast 3D gradient‐echo imaging with a flexible echo time

Purpose To develop a single-point Dixon (SPD) technique that requires only data of a single echo with a flexible echo time, and to demonstrate its use for fat-suppressed, T1-weighted contrast agent enhancement studies. Materials and Methods Raw data were collected using a product fast 3D gradient-echo pulse sequence. Phase-error removal and fat-suppression (FS) were achieved using a fully-automated region-growing algorithm. A water and fat phantom and the abdomen and breast of cancer patients before and after injection of gadolinium contrast agent were imaged at varying echo times. Scan time efficiency and overall FS quality were compared to those by the product fast 3D gradient-echo technique with conventional FS. Results In phantom, the SPD technique achieved uniform FS for a wide range of echo times corresponding to the water and fat relative phase angles between 100° and 160°. In patients, the technique was able to achieve approximately 30% scan time reduction and more uniform FS when compared to using the conventional FS technique but otherwise identical scan parameters. Conclusion The SPD technique compares favorably in scan time efficiency and FS uniformity and can be useful for fast T1-weighted and fat-suppressed imaging with contrast agent administration. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2008. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Air pollution and morbidity: A sensitivity analysis of alternative monitors, pollutants, and averaging times

Large cross-sectional data bases containing observations at the individual level are well suited for exploring the functional relationship between ambient air quality and health outcome. Since these analyses require the use of fixed-site air pollution monitors to measure pollution exposure, the results are subject to continued uncertainty. This study addresses three major concerns related to the use of these monitors. The results indicate that: (1) particulate matter alone is an important air pollution source of morbidity. It does not appear to mask or incorporate the effect of other air pollutants; (2) the estimated impact of air pollution on health is insensitive to actual monitor location. However, combining central city and suburban residents can lead to an underestimate of the pollution impact; and (3) the results are generally consistent when either a short or long term measure of pollution exposure is used.
Field Evaporation: Model and Experiment

Abstract The ability of the image potential and charge exchange models to describe the evaporation of metals in a high electric field is examined. At present only the field dependence of the evaporation rate can be compared with the predictions of the two models. An analysis of experiments on the evaporation of tungsten atoms from kink sites, as well as from sites on top of the (110), suggests that the image potential model gives the most satisfactory representation of the data. The quantity α, which indicates the difference between the polarizability of a neutral surface atom and an ion, is found to differ little from one kind of site to another when obtained from a least-squares analysis. For tungsten at a kink site α =4.80 ± ± 0.03A˚ 3 ; for an adatom on the (110), α = 5.24 ±0.04A 3 .
Scrape-off layer features of the QH-mode

Abstract The quiescent high confinement (QH-mode) and quiescent double barrier (QDB) modes in DIII-D have long-duration H-mode confinement without ELMs, possibly an alternative operating mode in future tokamaks for avoiding damage by ELMs. Instead of ELMs, there is an edge harmonic oscillation (EHO), which is a continuous electromagnetic mode with associated density fluctuations. The edge pedestal is similar to ELMing H-mode, but at very low density to date. We see C 6+ ion temperatures of 3–7 keV in scrape-off layer (SOL), 100 kV/m radial electric fields just inside the separatrix, and a hot area on the divertor baffle whose heating correlates with the presence of the EHO. We attribute the baffle heating to perturbation of trapped ion orbits by the EHO, allowing particles to strike the baffle. The outboard SOL is wider than the inboard, probably for lack of trapped ions on the inside.
Predictors of corticosteroid tapering in SLE patients: the Hopkins Lupus Cohort

PurposeOrgan damage in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients is highly associated with the use of corticosteroids. Doses of prednisone below 6 mg daily are associated with reduced organ damag...
Bedrock fracturing, threshold hillslopes, and limits to the magnitude of bedrock landslides

Abstract Bedrock fracturing and rock strength are widely believed to influence landscape morphology and erosional resistance. Yet, understanding of the quantitative relationship between rock-mass strength and landscape evolution remains limited. Here we present a new application of seismic refraction surveys that uses variations in seismic velocity to interpret differences in bedrock fracture density with depth. We use a comparative study of Fiordland and the western Southern Alps of New Zealand to examine how differences in rock type and bedrock fracturing influence landscape morphology and landslide response to rock uplift. In both regions, slopes appear invariant with differential rock-uplift rates and slope distributions reveal modal hillslope angles of ~ 32°. The majority of landslides initiate on slopes steeper than the modal hillslope angle, however, landslide magnitude–frequency distributions reveal order-of-magnitude differences between the regions, with Fiordland experiencing considerably smaller and less frequent landsliding events. Landslide-driven denudation rates of ~ 9 mm/yr in the western Southern Alps and between ~ 0.1 and 0.3 mm/yr in Fiordland approximate estimates of long-term rock-uplift rates for each region. The invariance of hillslope angles, near-normal slope distributions, predominance of landslide initiation on slopes steeper than modal values, and the apparent balance between rates of uplift and landslide-driven erosion suggest that hillslopes in both regions are at threshold angles. Their similar modal slopes further suggest that both ranges are characterized by equivalent rock-mass strength, despite striking differences in lithology. Additionally, our seismic analysis reveals nearly identical surface p-wave velocities. The unexpected equivalence of both modal slopes and surface velocities between these lithologically distinct ranges is attributed to contrasting degrees of surface fracturing that have differentially affected the intact rock properties, such that they now yield equivalent surface velocities and hillslope-scale strengths. Given that surface fractures help regulate threshold angles by modulating hillslope strength; we propose that shallow seismic velocities may provide a quantitative proxy for rock-mass strength. We define two contrasting fracture and landsliding environments. In Fiordland, dense geomorphic fracturing that is focused within the shallow subsurface appears to limit the depth and magnitude of most bedrock landslides. Conversely, in the western Southern Alps, tectonic forces produce pervasive fracturing with depth that results in larger, and deeper landslides. Our data suggest that bedrock fracturing at the Earth's surface modulates threshold hillslope angles, whereas the depth of bedrock fracturing influences the magnitude and frequency of landslide response to tectonic rock uplift.
Perceived Importance Factors of Restaurants in Relation to University Customers' Demographic Characteristics

Abstract This research examines the attributes which influence customers' decisions to return to a restaurant for another meal. Quality of food was rated as the most important attribute, followed by quality of service, cost/value of the meal, and ambiance of the restaurant. Nutritional value was rated as the least important attribute. Male customers did not rate the attributes differently from the female customers.
A North American Yersinia pestis Draft Genome Sequence: SNPs and Phylogenetic Analysis

Background Yersinia pestis, the causative agent of plague, is responsible for some of the greatest epidemic scourges of mankind. It is widespread in the western United States, although it has only been present there for just over 100 years. As a result, there has been very little time for diversity to accumulate in this region. Much of the diversity that has been detected among North American isolates is at loci that mutate too quickly to accurately reconstruct large-scale phylogenetic patterns. Slowly-evolving but stable markers such as SNPs could be useful for this purpose, but are difficult to identify due to the monomorphic nature of North American isolates. Methodology/Principal Findings To identify SNPs that are polymorphic among North American populations of Y. pestis, a gapped genome sequence of Y. pestis strain FV-1 was generated. Sequence comparison of FV-1 with another North American strain, CO92, identified 19 new SNP loci that differ among North American isolates. Conclusions/Significance The 19 SNP loci identified in this study should facilitate additional studies of the genetic population structure of Y. pestis across North America.
Lexical feature based phishing URL detection using online learning

Phishing is a form of cybercrime where spammed emails and fraudulent websites entice victims to provide sensitive information to the phishers. The acquired sensitive information is subsequently used to steal identities or gain access to money. This paper explores the possibility of utilizing confidence weighted classification combined with content based phishing URL detection to produce a dynamic and extensible system for detection of present and emerging types of phishing domains. Our system is capable of detecting emerging threats as they appear and subsequently can provide increased protection against zero hour threats unlike traditional blacklisting techniques which function reactively.
A Survey of Analog Memory Devices

Widespread and persistent interest in the implementation of multilevel logic, conditional probability computers, learning machines, and brain models has created a need for an inexpensive analog or quasi-digital storage element. A number of possible approaches to this problem, ranging from the slow and reliable electromechanical systems to the many forms of charge and flux integration, are reviewed, and the suitability of each device for various fields of application is briefly discussed.
Disruption of illumination dependent activity by superior colliculus destruction.

Abstract The effect of superior colliculus lesions on activity level under light (135 ft-c.) and dark (
The Role of the Monosialoganglioside, GM1, as a Neuroprotectant in an Experimental Model of Cardiopulmonary Bypass and Hypothermic Circulatory Arresta

Twelve male dogs were placed on closed-chest cardiopulmonary bypass, subjected to 2 h of HCA at 18 degrees C, and rewarmed to 37 degrees C on closed-chest cardiopulmonary bypass. All animals were mechanically ventilated and monitored for 20 h before extubation and survived for 3 days. Group 1 dogs (n = 6) were pretreated with GM1, 30 mg/kg/24 h for 3 days before HCA, and received continuous infusion of GM1 during the procedure and 30 mg/kg/24 h for 3 days after HCA. Group 2 dogs (n = 6) received vehicle only. With a species-specific behavior scale that yielded a neurodeficit score ranging from 0% (normal) to 100% (brain dead), all animals were neurologically assessed every 12 h by two observers. After death at 72 h, brains were examined by glutamate receptor autoradiography and by histologic examination for patterns of selective neuronal necrosis and were scored blindly from 0 (normal) to 100 (severe injury). These results provide evidence of a role for GE in the development of HCA-induced brain injury and suggest that monosialogangliosides may have a neuroprotective effect in prolonged periods of HCA.
Internal labor markets, promotions, and worker skill: An indirect test of skill ILMs☆

Abstract The determinants of intrafirm mobility within the internal labor markets (ILMs) of one large, regional bank and one small town bank are examined. The literature on the banking industry suggests that internal labor markets exist there, and that job changes within these markets are based on the development of skill rather than on seniority. It is suggested that in skill ILMs, promotions will be a positive function of the employees' duration in the present job; while in a seniority-based ILM, promotions will be a positive function of tenure with the firm prior to the present job. These findings, for men but not women, support the hypothesis that skill rather than seniority-based ILMs are present in each bank. The findings for women suggest that they work in “firm” or secondary labor markets. While the two banks are similar in the way other factors determine mobility, differences are also found which may be explained by the size and sectoral location of each bank.
Abstract B33: Langerhans cells prevent melanocytic nevus development and transformation in mice.

The function of Langerhans cells (LCs) in the skin immune system is unclear, and a matter of intense debate. In different mouse models LCs have been shown to induce antitumor immunity or promote skin squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Their role in the control or promotion of melanoma is not known. We assessed LC9s role in the development of DMBA-TPA induced pigmented benign and transformed lesions in a novel mouse model. Transgenic HuLang-DTA+/- C57Bl/6 mice, which selectively ablate epidermal LCs, were crossed with C3H/HeN mice to generate F1 LC knockout (KO) and WT littermate controls. LC-KO mice developed 40% more and 2-fold larger melanocytic lesions than WT. Cell suspensions from LC-KO pigmented skin lesions contained increased CD4+ Foxp3+ regulatory T cells and CD11b-/loGr-1hi cells, consistent with an immunosuppressive microenvironment. CD11c+CD11b+Ly6C+ APCs or MHCII+ cell numbers were fewer in lesions from LC-KO as compared to WT mice. Nests of melanocytic cells were observed at a higher frequency in draining lymph nodes (dLNs) from LC-KO as compared to WT; DLN cells contained increased numbers of TRP2+ cells and routinely gave rise to proliferative melanocytic cell lines. Real-time PCR analysis of epidermal cDNA from TPA treated LC-KO, as compared to WT, demonstrated a profound loss of IL-10, IL-12p35 and IL-12p40, indicating LCs as the major source. Further, IL-23 steady state levels in the epidermis of LC-KO are increased greater than 3-fold over WT, indicating that LCs normally suppress keratinocyte production of IL-23. Thus, in contrast to SCC, LCs inhibit development of benign and metastatic pigmented tumors. This novel murine model will be useful in elucidating transformation mechanisms and identifying novel therapeutic targets that may prevent metastatic melanoma. Citation Format: Tahseen H. Nasti, Yuko Tsuruta, Kris McKay, Mohammad Athar, Craig Elmets, Laura Timares. Langerhans cells prevent melanocytic nevus development and transformation in mice.. [abstract]. In: Abstracts: AACR Special Conference on Cellular Heterogeneity in the Tumor Microenvironment; 2014 Feb 26-Mar 1; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(1 Suppl):Abstract nr B33. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.CHTME14-B33
Tinker, tailor, scientist, advocate!

A new initiative by the Ecological Society of America (ESA), the Aldo Leopold Leadership Program, is designed to train environmental scientists to be effective communicators of their research in the public and political arena. Each cohort of 20 Aldo Leopold leadership fellows meets twice in their first year. Over the next five years, the program is designed to train an initial group of 60 ecologists, and environmental and conservation biologists. The roots of the program go back to the ESAs Sustainable Biosphere Initiative (SBI)4xThe sustainable biosphere initiative (an ecological research agenda) . Lubchenco, J. et al. Ecology. 1991; 72: 371–412CrossrefSee all References4. During the development of the SBI, Jane Lubchenco (Oregon State University, Corvallis, USA) and Hal Mooney (Stanford University, CA, USA) realized there was a major need to train ecologists in the skills they would need to communicate with the press, their local and national politicians, and above all the public.A primary goal of the Aldo Leopold Leadership Program is to expand the communication skills of its fellows and raise the intellectual standard of the public dialogue on the environment. The fellows will be taught how to work with politicians, industrialists and the media, to develop environmental policies that are good for both the environment and long-term economic health.The Aldo Leopold Leadership Program was initiated by a ‘Pew Conservation Scholars Award’ to Jane Lubchenco. The full program is administered by ESA with a generous $1.5 million grant from the David and Lucile Packard Foundation. Complete details of the program can be obtained at their website (www.leopold.orst.edu). At the first meeting in June 1999 the fellows were introduced to techniques to expand their communication repertoire, were taught how to develop connections with other communities and were given inside glimpses of other intellectual cultures (e.g. journalists and the media). In September 1999, the first cohort of fellows assembled in Washington, and spent a week learning and absorbing the process of policy making. Breakout sessions at both meetings allowed them to examine ways in which they can polish their leadership and communication skills, while also providing practical guidance on career juggling.The founders of the Aldo Leopold Leadership Program hope that the training provided to the fellows will not only thicken their skins, but will also provide them with a podium to amplify their voices in the public and political arena. It is an imaginative and much needed initiative that deserves to be widely emulated.
Ca2+- and Cross-Bridge-Dependent Changes in N- and C-Terminal Structure of Troponin C in Rat Cardiac Muscle

Abstract Linear dichroism of 5′-tetramethylrhodamine (5′ATR)-labeled cardiac troponin C (cTnC) was measured to monitor cTnC structure during Ca 2+ -activation of force in rat skinned myocardium. Mono-cysteine mutants allowed labeling at Cys-84 (cTnC(C84), near the D/E helix linker); Cys-35 (cTnC(C35), at nonfunctional site I); or near the C -terminus with a cysteine inserted at site 98 (cTnC-C35S,C84S,S98C, cTnC(C98)). With 5′ATR-labeled cTnC(C84) and cTnC(C98) dichroism increased with increasing [Ca 2+ ], while rigor cross-bridges caused dichroism to increase more with 5′ATR-labeled cTnC(C84) than cTnC(C98). The pCa 50 values and n H from Hill analysis of the Ca 2+ -dependence of force and dichroism were 6.4 (±0.02) and 1.08 (±0.04) for force and 6.3 (±0.04) and 1.02 (±0.09) ( n = 5 ) for dichroism in cTnC(C84) reconstituted trabeculae. Corresponding data from cTnC(C98) reconstituted trabeculae were 5.53 (±0.03) and 3.1 (±0.17) for force, and 5.39 (±0.03) and 1.87 (±0.17) ( n =5) for dichroism. The contribution of active cycling cross-bridges to changes in cTnC structure was determined by inhibition of force to 6% of pCa 4.0 controls with 1.0mM sodium vanadate (Vi). With 5′ATR-labeled cTnC(C84) Vi caused both the pCa 50 of dichroism and the maximum value at pCa 4.0 to decrease, while with 5′ATR-labeled cTnC(C98) the pCa 50 of dichroism decreased with no change of dichroism at pCa 4.0. The dichroism of 5′ATR-labeled cTnC(C35) was insensitive to either Ca 2+ or strong cross-bridges. These data suggest that both Ca 2+ and cycling cross-bridges perturb the N -terminal structure of cTnC at Cys-84, while C -terminal structure is altered by site II Ca 2+ -binding, but not cross-bridges.
A general encryption scheme based on MDS code

In this paper, we propose to combine cryptographically strong random key stream generators (including those used in stream ciphers) with simple block encoders to achieve both high cryptographic strength and low computation complexity of encryption and decryption. In particular, we show proper error-correcting codes can be used as block encoders. In general, encoding and decoding of a proper block error (or more accurately erasure) correcting code is much faster than encryption and decryption of block ciphers.
Leukemic infiltration of the esophagus.

Background. Leukemic infiltrates of the esophagus have been described occasionally in autopsy series, but there are no reports of antemortem diagnosis. Methods. Case reports are presented for three patients with acute myeloid leukemia in whom leukemic infiltration of the esophageal mucosa was diagnosed histologically and cytologically by endoscopic examination. Autopsies of patients with leukemia from 1976–1988 were reviewed. Results. The autopsy review of 207 patients with leukemia showed evidence of leukemic infiltration in the esophagus in 7.2% of cases. The only clinical factor identified to be significantly associated with esophageal involvement by leukemic cells was a high initial leukocyte count. Esophageal involvement was associated with leukemic infiltration of other soft tissues and organs. Conclusions. Although the etiology of dysphagia in patients with acute leukemia is usually related to infection, reflux, chemotherapy toxicity, or benign strictures, the frequency of esophageal leukemic infiltration in this autopsy series suggests that this diagnosis must be considered. Esophageal leukemia is usually associated with widely disseminated soft tissue and visceral infiltrates. Cancer 1993; 71:112-6.
Vaccination guidelines after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: Practitioners' knowledge, attitudes, and gap between guidelines and clinical practice

Background Hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HCT) recipients are more susceptible to infections from vaccine-preventable diseases than the general population. Despite the development of international consensus guidelines addressing immunization after HCT, studies have shown that deviations from recommended immunization practices commonly occur. Methods An anonymous survey aimed at determining awareness of the guidelines and attitudes toward vaccination was distributed to our HCT clinicians. In parallel, we retrospectively evaluated patients' characteristics and post-HCT vaccine administration practices from 2010 to 2013. Results The majority of survey respondents (96%) were familiar with post-HCT vaccination protocols. Seventy-four percent of respondents reported that influenza vaccines were given to >70% of their patients, and 41% stated that they prescribed live vaccines to eligible patients. However, our pharmacy database review revealed that 38% of patients received the first series of vaccinations by the recommended 6 months post HCT, and 60% received them by 1 year after HCT. Most patients who had their vaccines withheld had relapsed disease or were undergoing treatment for graft-versus-host disease. Furthermore, we identified lower immunization rates in non-English speaking individuals, African-Americans, and Hispanic patients. Conclusions Survey respondents reported being aware of current guidelines; however, adherence to the recommendations varied, likely connected to conflicting data on vaccine effectiveness and a lack of clear recommendations in complex clinical scenarios. Similar to the general population, patient barriers also could have contributed to lower vaccination rates in some cases. To decrease the large gap between the post-HCT vaccination guidelines and clinical practice, further studies on vaccine effectiveness and specific populations are warranted.
Histogenesis of the dorsal and ventral cochlear nuclei in the mouse. An autoradiographic study.

The time, site of origin and migration pathways of neuroblasts destined for the dorsal and ventral cochlear nuclei in the mouse have been determined autoradiographically. Neurons of the dorsal cochlear nucleus arise on gestation days 10 through 13, neurons of the ventral cochlear nucleus on days 10 through 14. Neurons of both nuclei arise within the primitive ependyma of the caudal extent of the primary rhombic lip at the level of the lateral recess; neurons of the dorsal cochlear nucleus arise caudal to neurons of the ventral cochlear nucleus. Granular cells arise on days 12 through 18 within the primitive ependyma of the secondary rhombic lip at the same levels.