cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Origin and In Situ Identification of Uncultured Gut Bacteria in Fourth-Instar Larvae of the Red Imported Fire Ant, Solenopsis invicta (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)

This study corroborated the findings of Lee et al . (2008) and relied on culture-independent techniques, particularly 16S rDNA sequencing. Results from the study demonstrated that ants in captivity completely change their gut bacterial diversity strongly supports the conclusion that fire ant gut bacteria are environmental in origin. Bacteria in the fourth-instar larvae were present because they were consumed with food sources. From molecular data, a differing list of bacteria from each colony with different branching and clustering among bacterial clades in the phylogenetic trees were found. Different bacterial diversity and evenness was found in all colonies, which provided evidence against the idea of the presence of obligate bactrial endosymbionts in Solenopis invicta guts. Obligate endosymbiont elimination through the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics did not significant affect ant mortality when compared to the untreated controls. This study did not find bacteriocytes in the midgut epithelium of fire ants. Microscopic observations did not locate any bacteriocytes in fourth-instar S. invicta larvae. All identified bacteria appeared to have been derived from the food or the environment. Though coadapted bacteria and specialized bacteriocytes were not found in the guts of fourth-instar larvae, such specialized organisms may be present elsewhere in the ant. Coadapted symbionts may exist in other parts of the larvae’s body or in other stages of development.
A Culvert Acts as a Barrier for Blackside Dace (Chrosomus cumberlandensis) Movements in Lick Fork, Kentucky

Abstract From 2003 to 2012, we surveyed the fishes of Lick Fork, a Blackside Dace (Chrosomus cumberlandensis) stream in Bell County, KY The downstream half of Lick Fork flows through a subdivision, where it is interrupted by a perched culvert that restricts the movement of fishes within Lick Fork. The fish faunas and abundance of Blackside Dace upstream and downstream of the culvert were strikingly different. Downstream of the culvert, the fish fauna was species-rich (9–13 species), KIBI scores were high (48–56, considered “Good” to “Excellent”), and Blackside Dace were common. In contrast, upstream of the culvert Blackside Dace were rare, only two species—Semotilus atromaculatus (Creek Chub) and Rhinichthys atratulus (Blacknose Dace)—were found in abundance, and KIBI scores were lower (33–48, considered “Fair” to “Good”). Comparison with historical collections (1994) revealed declines or extirpations of some fishes (Chrosomus and Etheostoma) upstream of the culvert. The striking difference in the upstrea...
Continent Urinary Diversion in Childhood: Complications of Alcohol Abuse Developing in Adulthood

Purpose: We reviewed the urological sequelae of alcohol abuse in patients following enterocystoplasty in childhood.Materials and Methods: We reviewed our patient registry of 385 enteric bladder augmentations. We evaluated patients providing information regarding social habits. Patients were defined as abusing alcohol if they consumed more than 2 alcoholic beverages daily and were compared to a control group consuming 0 to 2 alcoholic beverages daily.Results: A total of 203 patients met inclusion criteria. Of the patients 24 (12%) admitted a history of alcohol abuse, of whom 5 (21%) sustained a total of 10 bladder ruptures, all related to alcohol consumption. All 5 patients presented in a delayed fashion, at more than 12 hours to 5 days following rupture. Despite immediate exploration and repair, 3 separate cardiac resuscitations were performed in 2 patients, of whom 1 died. One patient underwent conversion to an ileal conduit for repeated bladder ruptures (4 episodes) and failure to remain sober following...
Productivity Improvements in Rice

Rice comprises 23%—an immense proportion— of the calories consumed worldwide. Countries that rely on rice as the main staple often consume up to 60% of their daily calories from this cereal product. During the Green Revolution, the yield potential of rice was greatly improved, which is especially important owing to the rapidly growing population. This article reviews the potential contributions of biotechnology to further rice yield potential.
X-Ray Diffraction in Liquids: Primary Normal Alcohols

Evidence for a molecular space array in liquid primary normal alcohols, methyl to lauryl.---The x-ray diffraction in liquids has long been known. The suggestion has been repeatedly made that the effect is caused by fragmentary crystals. The viewpoint here taken is that there is a molecular space array, not crystalline, which is named cybotaxis. Evidence of the cybotactic state in liquid primary normal alcohols, methyl to lauryl, is adduced. By Mo $K\ensuremath{\alpha}$ x-ray diffraction ionization curves, two significant distances are measured, the first linearly dependent upon the content of carbon atoms and the second practically independent of this change in molecular length. The latter is thus the distance of separation perpendicular to the chain, and is 4.6A with lauryl, decreasing slowly to 4.4A with butyl and then rapidly to 3.8A with methyl. The value 4.6A is in striking agreement with the work of Adam on surface films of saturated fatty acids. The increase of the first distance, linearly with carbon content, is in harmony with the work of M\"uller and Saville and others, in that the increase is about 1.3A per carbon atom, and leads to the conclusion that the diffraction is produced by planes containing the polar groups, which are not perpendicular to the direction of the parallel chain molecules. Comparison of peaks in the liquid and solid states show that the spacings are not the same and the phenomena is not caused by crystal fragments. The cybotactic state permits mobility, but not random motion and is peculiar to the substance. The distances computed are the most probable spacings. The molecules may be regarded as having the same orientation in a small group, too small to give optical anisotropy. The discussion does not, therefore, extend to liquid crystals but adheres to the more general condition. The conception of the cybotactic state is helpful in an understanding of solutions and other liquid phenomena. The theories of Raman and Ramanathan, Debye and Zernike and Prins are suggestive in that they indicate that a definite molecular space array is not necessary for the production of a single diffraction halo. But they in no sense negate the evidence here adduced for a cybotactic state.
Positional behavior in moustached tamarin monkeys: effects of habitat on locomotor variability and locomotor stability

Abstract Knowledge of the positional behavior of living primates offers significant insight into patterns of habitat utilization, foraging strategies, and locomotor adaptations in fossil primates. Although it is generally assumed that locomotor patterns are strongly constrained by anatomy, few studies have addressed the question of locomotor plasticity and the degree to which patterns of positional behaviour may vary within the same species. In this paper, we provide quantitative data on positional behavior and substrate preference in adult moustached tamarins (Saguinus mystax) inhabiting two structurally distinct forest types in northeastern Peru. Despite major between-site differences in forest structure, tree density, liana density, and the extent of the continuous canopy, overall patterns of positional behavior were virtually identical. At the Padre Isla Field site, quadrupedal progression (55·7%), climbing (5·7%) and leaping (24·8%) accounted for 86·2% of travel. At the Rio Blanco site, these locomotor behaviors (quadrupedal progression, 51·6%; climbing, 10·8%; and leaping, 30·9%) accounted for 93% of travel. Patterns of support preference were more variable, however, and appeared to reflect site-specific differences in forest architecture. The results of this study indicate that both anatomy and local habitat play an important role in directing patterns of positional behavior in moustached tamarins. We argue, however, that locomotor anatomy acts to constrain the efficiency of locomotor choices and that even in forests of different canopy structure and tree density, tamarins negotiate preferred substrates using consistent patterns of positional behavior. Comparisons with other taxa indicate that several species of arboreal primates are similarly characterized by limited between site variability in positional behavior.
Enhancing the contrast of ApoB to locate the surface components in the 3D density map of human LDL.

A 26 A resolution map of the structure of human low-density lipoprotein (LDL) was obtained from electron cryomicroscopy and single-particle image reconstruction. The structure showed a discoidal-shaped LDL particle with high-density regions mainly distributed at the edge of the particle and low-density regions at the flat surface that covers the core region. To determine the chemical components that correspond to these density regions and to delineate the distribution of protein and phospholipid located at the particle surface at the resolution of the map, we used Mono-Sulfo-NHS-Undecagold labeling to increase preferentially the contrast of the apolipoprotein B component on the LDL particle. In the three-dimensional map from the image reconstruction of the undecagold-labeled LDL particles, the high-density region from the undecagold label was distributed mainly at the edge of the particle, and lower density regions were found at the flat surfaces that cover the neutral lipid core. This suggests that apolipoprotein B mainly encircles LDL at the edge of the particle and the phospholipid monolayers are located at the flat surfaces, which are parallel to the cholesterol ester layers in the core and may interact with the core lipid layers through the acyl chains.
Current instabilities in “s-shaped” negative differential conductivity elements

Abstract We have elucidated the important reactive components of “S-shaped” negative differential conductivity (NDC) elements and established the form and nature of the current instabilities. Our experimental results for PNPN and Ovonic diodes concur with the approximations we have made; all major features of the experimental results are accounted for by the theory. The theoretical results can be directly transformed between S and N-shaped NDC elements (e.g., tunnel and Gunn diodes) and provide a basis within which a general theory for an arbitrarily shaped conduction current curve can be established.
Agroecology to the rescue of food security and germplasm conservation in a global market economy

The chronic crisis affecting modern agriculture is indicating that the present paradigm of food production may not be viable in the long term to insure food security on a global scale, despite the brilliant outcomes achieved through the last several decades. Dwindling fossil fuel resources are exacerbating an ongoing crisis that has been lingering since the early 1970s. A recent enthusiasm to revamp agriculture in the mid-west region of the USA is focusing on ethanol production from corn (Zea mays) to suffice for the need of biofuels but this trend has significantly affected foods cost. A presentation of the latest review in agroecological research is offered in this work in order to persuade stakeholders in agriculture about the viability of agroecology to serve as a vehicle for achieving food security and sustainability.
UNICOR: a species connectivity and corridor network simulator

We introduce UNIversal CORridor network simulator (UNICOR), a species connectivity and corridor identifi cation tool. UNICOR applies Dijkstra's shortest path algorithm to individual-based simulations. Outputs can be used to designate movement corridors, identify isolated populations, and prioritize conservation plans to promote species persistence. The key features include a driver-module framework, connectivity mapping with thresholding and buffering, and calculation of graph theory metrics. Through parallel-processing, computational efficiency is greatly improved, allowing analyses of large extents and entire populations. Previously available approaches are limited by prolonged computational times and poor algorithmic efficiency, restricting problem-size and requiring artificial subsampling of populations.
Dependency and Opportunity Socioeconomic Relations between Chinese and Non-Chinese in New York City, 1870-1943

This article explores the work environment as a site for interactions between Chinese and non-Chinese in New York City between 1870 and 1943. A gendered and racially stratified paid labor force, shaped by federal immigration restriction laws, migration and settlement patterns to and within New York City, state occupational restrictions, and the development of a skilled white male urban working class, created the economic conditions within which the Chinese and non-Chinese struggled to survive during the exclusion period (1882-1943). Mutually dependent relationships often developed out of these phenomena. The survival of Chinese communities depended upon whites as well as Chinese and the skills and services offered by men of European descent. In turn, white men in trades and small businesses depended upon Chinese customers and fellow merchants. Chinese/white relations during this period provide a glimpse into how both groups created livelihoods and in the process built ethnic and cross-cultural urban commu...
Design for conversation: lessons from Cognoter

Abstract When studying the use of Cognoter, a multi-user idea organizing tool, we noticed that users encountered unexpected communicative breakdowns. Many of these difficulties stemmed from an incorrect model of conversation implicit in the design of the software. Drawing on recent work in psychology and sociology, we were able to create a more realistic model of the situation our users faced and apply it to the system to understand the breakdowns. We discovered that users encountered difficulties coordinating their conversational actions. They also had difficulty determining that they were talking about the same objects and actions in the workspace. This work led to the redesign of the tool and to the identification of areas for further exploration.
Differences in economic fluctuations in Japan and the United States: The role of nominal rigidities☆

Abstract This paper examines the differences between economic fluctuations in the United States and Japan during the period from 1972 through 1986. During this period the size of the fluctuations in real output in Japan was much smaller than in the United States. This difference is independent of the method of detrending and shows up clearly in simple time series plots. Using vector autoregressions and their moving average representations, important differences in the dynamics of inflation and output are uncovered. These differences are examined using a macroeconomic theory that combines monetary factors and slow wage adjustment. The theory suggests that differences in wage determination and monetary policy can explain many of the differences in output and price fluctuations in the two countries. The difference in wage determination is attributed to the synchronized wage determination process in annual Shunto in Japan rather than to profit sharing via the bonus system.
Band model of antiferromagnetism.

We wish to describe antiferromagnetic insulators at T=0 using a one-electron approach. To do this, we propose to overcome the inadequacies of standard local-spin-density theory by adding a spin-dependent magnetic pseudopotential to the Kohn-Sham equations. We then investigate in a general way using a simple two-dimensional model the physical behavior to be expected as band occupancy and interaction strength are varied. We find three phases: nonmagnetic metal, antiferromagnetic metal, and antiferromagnetic insulator. We emphasize the transition between large and small Fermi surfaces which occurs as the band occupancy changes.
Efficient energy transfer and electron transfer in an artificial photosynthetic antenna-reaction center complex

A highly efficient functional mimic of a photosynthetic antenna−reaction center complex has been designed, synthesized, and studied spectroscopically. The antenna, consisting of four covalently linked zinc tetraarylporphyrins, (PZP)3−PZC, has been coupled to a free-base porphyrin−fullerene artificial photosynthetic reaction center, P−C60, to form a (PZP)3−PZC−P−C60 hexad. As revealed by time-resolved absorption and emission studies in 2-methyltetrahydrofuran solution at ambient temperature, excitation of a peripheral zinc porphyrin moiety is followed by singlet−singlet energy transfer to the central zinc porphyrin to give (PZP)3−1PZC−P−C60 with a time constant of 50 ps. The excitation is passed on to the free-base porphyrin in 32 ps to produce (PZP)3−PZC−1P−C60, which decays by electron transfer to the fullerene with a time constant of 25 ps. The resulting (PZP)3−PZC−P•+−C60•- charge-separated state is generated with a quantum yield of 0.98 based on light absorbed by the porphyrin antenna. Direct excitati...
Low density frames for compressive sensing

We consider the compressive sensing of a sparse or compressible signal x ∈ ℝM. We explicitly construct a class of measurement matrices, referred to as the low density frames, and develop decoding algorithms that produce an accurate estimate x even in the presence of additive noise. Low density frames are sparse matrices and have small storage requirements. Our decoding algorithms for these frames can be implemented in O(Md v d c ) complexity, where d c and d v are the row and column weight of the frame respectively. Simulation results are provided, demonstrating that our approach significantly outperforms state-of-the-art recovery algorithms for numerous cases of interest.
Ca2+ Binding to Calmodulin and Its Role in Schizosaccharomyces pombe as Revealed by Mutagenesis and NMR Spectroscopy (∗)

As a first step toward identifying the important structural elements of calmodulin from Schizosaccharomyces pombe, we examined the ability of heterologous calmodulins and Ca2+-binding site mutant S. pombe calmodulins to replace the essential cam1+ gene. A cDNA encoding vertebrate calmodulin allows growth of S. pombe. However, calmodulin from Saccharomyces cerevisiae does not support growth even though the protein is produced at high levels. With one exception, all mutant S. pombe calmodulins with one or more intact Ca2+-binding sites allow growth at 21°C. A mutant containing only an intact Ca2+-binding site 3 fails to support growth, as does S. pombe calmodulin with all four Ca2+-binding sites mutated. Several of the mutant proteins confer a temperature-sensitive phenotype. Analysis of the degree of temperature sensitivity allows the Ca2+-binding sites to be ranked by their ability to support fission yeast proliferation. Site 2 is more important than site 1, which is more important than site 4, which is more important than site 3. A visual colony color screen based on the fission yeast ade1+ gene was developed to perform these genetic analyses. To compare the Ca2+-binding properties of individual sites to their functional importance for viability, Ca2+ binding to calmodulin from S. pombe was studied by 1H NMR spectroscopy. NMR analysis indicates a Ca2+-binding profile that differs from those previously determined for vertebrate and S. cerevisiae calmodulins. Ca2+-binding site 3 has the highest relative affinity for Ca2+, while the affinities of sites 1, 2, and 4 are indistinguishable. A combination of an in vivo functional assay and an in vitro physical assay reveals that the relative affinity of a site for Ca2+ does not predict its functional importance.
Quark-meson coupling model for finite nuclei

A Quark-Meson Coupling (QMC) model is extended to finite nuclei in the relativistic mean-field or Hartree approximation. The ultra-relativistic quarks are assumed to be bound in non-overlapping nucleon bags, and the interaction between nucleons arises from a coupling of vector and scalar meson fields to the quarks. We develop a perturbative scheme for treating the spatial nonuniformity of the meson fields over the volume of the nucleon as well as the nucleus. Results of calculations for spherical nuclei are given, based on a fit to the equilibrium properties of nuclear matter. Several possible extensions of the model are also considered.
The Significance of Fatigue Crack Closure

Al alloy sheet fatigue crack closure under cyclic tensile loading, deriving expression for crack propagation rate in terms of effective stress amplitude
Augmentation cystoplasty in patients with exstrophy-epispadias.

In a series of over 200 patients with exstrophyepispadias from the Mayo Clinic, a subgroup of 11 with small bladder capacities, decreased detrusor compliance, and urinary incontinence underwent augmentation cystoplasty. Preaugmentation bladder capacities were between 25 and 250 mL (mean, 73 mL). Bladder capacities after enterocystoplasty improved significantly, with a range between 180 and 500 mL (mean, 355 mL). Ten of the 11 patients have total urinary continence for greater than 3 hours. One child remains dry between 1 1/2 and 2 hours. Nine patients are in complete urinary retention and are managed by clean intermittent catheterization. Two patients void spontaneously by pelvic muscle relaxation and abdominal straining alone. All patients maintain normal or stable renal function postoperatively. Excretory urography showed decreased caliectasis in two patients with preoperative hydronephrosis and stable upper urinary tracts in nine patients. Enterocystoplasty can produce total urinary continence, preserve renal function, and avoid the long-term sequelae of urinary diversion in selected children born with exstrophy-epispadias.
PDK1 mediates growth factor‐induced Ral‐GEF activation by a kinase‐independent mechanism

Ras proteins transduce extracellular signals to intracellular signaling pathways by binding to and promoting the activation of at least three classes of downstream signaling molecules: Raf kinases, phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3-K) and Ral guanine nucleotide exchange factors (Ral-GEFs). Previous work has demonstrated that epidermal growth factor (EGF) activates Ral-GEFs, at least in part, by a Ras-mediated redistribution of the GEFs to their target, Ral-GTPases, in the plasma membrane. Here we show that Ral-GEF stimulation by EGF involves an additional mechanism, PI3-K-dependent kinase 1 (PDK1)-induced enhancement of Ral-GEF catalytic activity. Remarkably, this PDK1 function is not dependent upon its kinase activity. Instead, the non-catalytic N-terminus of PDK1 mediates the formation of an EGF-induced complex with the N-terminus of the Ral-GEF, Ral-GDS, thereby relieving its auto-inhibitory effect on the catalytic domain of Ral-GDS. These results elucidate a novel function for PDK1 and demonstrate that two Ras effector pathways cooperate to promote Ral-GTPase activation.
Utilization of BeO in reactors

Abstract Beryllium oxide possesses attractive nuclear and high-temperature properties which justify its consideration and use in a number of reactor systems. Its early consideration for the moderator and fuel matrix material in the proposed Daniels Reactor in 1945 is of historical significance. Through the intervening years, information has been developed on the basic and applied properties of BeO leading to its use in reactor systems. Currently, BeO is being used, or planned for use, in the General Atomic Experimental Beryllium Oxide Reactor (EBOR), the Aerojet General Gas-Cooled Reactor (GCRE), the Atomics International SNAP reactors, and the Lawrence Radiation Laboratory Pluto ramjet reactor. These concepts are described briefly. Beryllium oxide is also under consideration for nuclear power plants for satellites and other space vehicles. Intrinsically, BeO is an excellent moderator and reflector material. Its physical and mechanical properties are in most cases sufficient to meet the basic material and engineering requirements for core components. Some of its more outstanding attributes are: high thermal conductivity, good shock resistance, high refractoriness, compatibility with fuels, and inertness with gas coolants of interest up to 1600° C. In addition, the (n, 2n) reaction possible with beryllium improves the neutron economy of the reactor system. There are, however, major problems associated with the use of BeO which influence its use. These problems are reviewed with particular attention being paid to considerations of reactor design and overall economics.
Perceptions and Uses of Clicker Technology

This article provides an overview of the usefulness and drawbacks of using clicker technology in higher education and library instruction and presents the results of a survey intended to measure perceptions and uses of clicker technology among librarians (N = 91).
Fc receptor genes and the systemic lupus erythematosus diathesis.

Fc receptors represent a distinct group of hematopoeitic cell surface glycoproteins that have a characterized role in affecting the efficiency of the mononuclear phagocyte system to clear IgG immune complexes. Functional genetic variatins in this family of receptors have been identified as heritable susceptibility factors for SLE and lupus nephritis across diverse populations. In this review, we describe the roles of the classical Fc receptors for IgG (Fcγ) and non-classical Fc-like receptors (FCR1-FCRL6L), Fc receptors for IgE (FceRI) and IgA and IgM (Fcα/μR) in SLE diathesis. The combined effects of these genes on SLE pathogenesis, either via linkage disequilibrium or epistasis with additional genetic or environmental factors, provide a challenge for future investigations. The pursuit of a polygenic SLE-profile that includes longitudinal evaluations of SLE and markers involved in the protean clinical manifestations associated with SLE will facilitate our understanding of the cascade of inflammatory even...
Cardiac aging — Getting to the stem of the problem

Cardiac aging is a heterogeneous process caused by a combination of stochastic events which manifests as loss of structure and function in the heart, however several recent studies draw attention to aging being primarily a stem cell problem. This review summarizes findings in support of the "stem cell hypothesis of aging" and discusses the impact of age on cardiac stem cells and the niche. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled 'CV Aging'.
Airborne sea salt sedimentation measurements and a method of reproducing ambient sedimentation rates for the study of its effect on vegetation

Abstract A method to reproduce ambient airborne sea salt sedimentation for the study of its effects on vegetation was developed. The method consists of a polyethylene sedimentation chamber with a PVC cylinder in the center through which a spinning disc humidifier forces a cloud of sea salt aerosol. This apparatus was capable of reproducing sedimentation rates from 1.54 to 27.00 μg m−2 s−1 which corresponded to measured sedimentation rates up to 600 m inland along the New Jersey coast.
Ethical considerations in conducting clinical trials for elderly cancer patients

Under-representation of the elderly in clinical trials leads to inadequate information on the effect of age with regard to new anticancer treatments. The exclusion of elderly patients from cancer experimentation, often due to limiting medical or psychosocial factors, appears to also stem from misconceptions about aging and frailty. Limited data on elderly cancer patients enrolled in clinical trials suggest that age itself, in the absence of severe concomitant illnesses or psychological, cognitive or functional impairment, is not an independent risk factor for either increased toxicity or lack of treatment efficacy. Prospective benefits of inclusion of the elderly in clinical trials must be weighed against exposing individual patients to potential risks. The medical, ethical and methodological implications of experimentation in the elderly need to be studied in depth. This article reviews ethical issues in cancer clinical trials, focusing on aspects that may deserve special attention when elderly patients ...
The role of T cells in protection by an inactivated infectious bursal disease virus vaccine.

The current belief is that the humoral immune response plays the principal role in defense against virulent infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV). In this study we used a model, in which chickens were compromised in functional T cells by neonatal thymectomy and Cyclosporin A (TxCsA) treatment, to demonstrate the role of T cells in protective immunity against IBDV. We demonstrated that T cells were necessary to achieve full protection against virulent IBDV. When T cell compromised TxCsA-treated chickens were vaccinated with an inactivated IBDV (iIBDV) vaccine, 91% were not protected against IBDV challenge in comparison to T cell-intact chickens, which had a protection rate of 91%. The iIBDV vaccine induced virus neutralizing (VN) and ELISA antibodies, respectively, in 65 and 5% of TxCsA-treated, and in 100 and 58% of T cell-intact birds. These observations provide evidence that the stimulation of T helper cells is needed for the production of protective antibody levels in iIBDV-vaccinated chickens. Passive administration of VN anti-IBDV antibodies inducing a circulating antibody level of log(2)8 in chickens revealed that the levels of antibodies that protected T cell-intact chickens against virulent IBDV challenge were not protective for TxCsA chickens. These results indicated that antibody alone was not adequate in inducing protection against IBDV in chickens and that T cell-involvement was critical for protection. We propose that the inability of iIBDV to protect TxCsA chickens was due to compromised T cell immunity, functional T helper cells and most likely also cytotoxic T cells are needed in iIBDV vaccine protection.
On the evadable sets of differential evasion games

Abstract The notions of δ-evasion strategies and evadable sets are introduced for a nonlinear differential game with information delay and results about the evadable sets and the (strict) evadability of the game are obtained. A linear case is treated at the end.
Magnetic nanoparticles as markers for cellular MR imaging

Abstract Cellular MR imaging is a rapidly growing field that aims to visualize targeted cells in living organisms. Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles, that induce a hypointense contrast on the MR images, have now widely been used to mark cells in vitro and in vivo. Following intravenous injection, the particles are rapidly taken up by phagocytic cells of the reticuloendothelial system, and imaging of this “macrophage activity” has been translated into the clinic for tumor staging of the liver and lymph nodes. A new, still experimental application of magnetic particles as cellular markers is its use to monitor cell migration and cell trafficking following labeling and transfer to living organisms. Further exploitation of this technique will allow a better understanding of the dynamics of in vivo cell biology as well as translation into the clinic to monitor (stem) cell-based therapies.
Structurally Conserved Nop56/58 N-terminal Domain Facilitates Archaeal Box C/D Ribonucleoprotein-guided Methyltransferase Activity

Box C/D RNA-protein complexes (RNPs) guide the 2′-O-methylation of nucleotides in both archaeal and eukaryotic ribosomal RNAs. The archaeal box C/D and C′/D′ RNP subcomplexes are each assembled with three sRNP core proteins. The archaeal Nop56/58 core protein mediates crucial protein-protein interactions required for both sRNP assembly and the methyltransferase reaction by bridging the L7Ae and fibrillarin core proteins. The interaction of Methanocaldococcus jannaschii (Mj) Nop56/58 with the methyltransferase fibrillarin has been investigated using site-directed mutagenesis of specific amino acids in the N-terminal domain of Nop56/58 that interacts with fibrillarin. Extensive mutagenesis revealed an unusually strong Nop56/58-fibrillarin interaction. Only deletion of the NTD itself prevented dimerization with fibrillarin. The extreme stability of the Nop56/58-fibrillarin heterodimer was confirmed in both chemical and thermal denaturation analyses. However, mutations that did not affect Nop56/58 binding to fibrillarin or sRNP assembly nevertheless disrupted sRNP-guided nucleotide modification, revealing a role for Nop56/58 in methyltransferase activity. This conclusion was supported with the cross-linking of Nop56/58 to the target RNA substrate. The Mj Nop56/58 NTD was further characterized by solving its three-dimensional crystal structure to a resolution of 1.7 A. Despite low primary sequence conservation among the archaeal Nop56/58 homologs, the overall structure of the archaeal NTD domain is very well conserved. In conclusion, the archaeal Nop56/58 NTD exhibits a conserved domain structure whose exceptionally stable interaction with fibrillarin plays a role in both RNP assembly and methyltransferase activity.
Contributions of ectomycorrhizal fungal mats to forest soil respiration

Abstract. Distinct aggregations of fungal hyphae and rhizomorphs, or "mats", formed by some genera of ectomycorrhizal (EcM) fungi are common features of soils in coniferous forests of the Pacific Northwest. We measured in situ respiration rates of Piloderma mats and neighboring non-mat soils in an old-growth Douglas-fir forest in western Oregon to investigate whether there was higher respiration from mats, and to estimate mat contributions to total soil respiration. We found that areas where Piloderma mats colonized the organic horizon often had higher soil surface flux than non-mats, with the relative increase in respiration averaging 16% across two growing seasons. Both soil physical factors and biochemistry were related to the higher surface flux of mat soils. When soil moisture was high, soil CO2 production was concentrated into near-surface soil horizons where mats tend to colonize, resulting in greater apparent differences in respiration between mat and non-mat soils. Respiration rates were also correlated with the activity of chitin-degrading soil enzymes. This finding supports the notion that the abundance of fungal biomass in EcM mats is an important driver of C and N cycling. We found Piloderma mats present across 57% of the exposed soil, and use this value to estimate a respiratory contribution from mats at the stand-scale of about 9% of total soil respiration. The activity of EcM mats, which includes both EcM fungi and microbial associates, appeared to constitute a substantial portion of total soil respiration in this old-growth Douglas-fir forest.
Ontogenetic change in blood oxygen capacity and maximum activity in garter snakes ( Thamnophis sirtalis )

There is an ontogenetic increase in the time that garter snakes (Thamnophis s. sirtalis) can maintain maximum activity at 25°C. Newborn snakes are exhausted by 3–5 min of activity while adults can be active for 20–25 min. The increased endurance of adult snakes results from ontogenetic increases in both aerobic and anaerobic energy generation. At rest juvenile and adult snakes have the same whole-body lactic acid concentrations, but at exhaustion adult lactic acid concentrations are 1.5 times those of juveniles. This increase in anaerobic energy production accounts for part of the endurance of adult snakes, but increased aerobic metabolism appears to be more important. Among the mechanisms increasing aerobic metabolism are more effective pulmonary ventilation and a 3-fold ontogenetic increase in blood oxygen capacity. The rapid exhaustion of small garter snakes probably limits the microhabitats they can occupy and the sorts of hunting methods they can employ. Small garter snakes feed only on small prey that are easily subdued. There is an ontogenetic increase in the relative size of prey eaten by garter snakes that parallels the ontogenetic increase in endurance. Adult feeding habits are adopted at the same body size at which adult blood oxygen capacity and endurance are attained.
A Novel Nuclear Member of the Thioredoxin Superfamily

We describe the isolation and characterization of a cDNA encoding maize (Zea mays L.) nucleoredoxin (NRX), a novel nuclear protein that is a member of the thioredoxin (TRX) superfamily. NRX is composed of three TRX-like modules arranged as direct repeats of the classic TRX domain. The first and third modules contain the amino acid sequence WCPPC, which indicates the potential for TRX oxidoreductase activity, and insulin reduction assays indicate that at least the third module possesses TRX enzymatic activity. The carboxy terminus of NRX is a non-TRX module that possesses C residues in the proper sequence context to form a Zn finger. Immunolocalization preferentially to the nucleus within developing maize kernels suggests a potential for directed alteration of the reduction state of transcription factors as part of the events and pathways that regulate gene transcription.
The Coding of Graphics Animation in a Videotex Terminal

If one traces the evolution of videotex terminals since their first developuent, it can be seen that the early standards supported text and coarse graphics. A comunication protocol had to be defined in order to move the cursor position on the screen, select a given color or character attribute, and then write the text on the screen.
Independent elements, integrally closed ideals, and quasi-unmixedness

Abstract Let I a denote the integral closure of an ideal I in a Noetherian ring A . Then it is shown that sup a ∞ I , the maximum number of elements which are ( I n ) a -independent as n → ∞, exists and is equal to min{height (I(A P ) ∗ + z) z : P is a prime divisor of ( I n ) a for all large n and z is a minimal prime ideal in the completion (A p ) ∗ of A p } . From this it follows that A is locally quasi-unmixed if and only if sup a ∞ I = height I for all ideals I in A .
Did Principia Mathematica Precipitate a "Fregean Revolution"?

I begin by asking whether there was a Fregean revolution in logic, and, if so, in what did it consist. I then ask whether, and if so, to what extent, Russell played a decisive role in carrying through the Fregean revolution, and, if so, how. A subsidiary question is whether it was primarily the influence of The Principles of Mathematics or Principia Mathematica , or perhaps both, that stimulated and helped consummate the Fregean revolution. Finally, I examine cases in which logicians sought to integrate traditional logic into the Fregean paradigm, focusing on the case of Henry Bradford Smith. My proposed conclusion is that there were different means adopted for rewriting the syllogism, in terms of the logic of relations, in terms of the propositional calculus, or as formulas of the monadic predicate calculus. This suggests that the changes implemented as a result of the adoption of the Russell–Fregean conception of logic could more accurately be called by Grattan-Guinness’s term convolution , rather than revolution .
Cerebral metabolites in patients with acute and subacute strokes: Concentrations determined by quantitative proton MR spectroscopy

The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility of measuring concentrations of cerebral metabolites in acute and subacute stroke patients using single-voxel localized proton MR spectroscopy and to compare these concentrations to those in contralateral brain regions and in normal healthy volunteers.Single-voxel proton MR spectroscopy and MR imaging were performed in 14 stroke patients, at times ranging from 2 hr to 10 days following the onset of symptoms. Signals from choline, creatine, N-acetyl-L-aspartate (NAA), and lactate were quantified in the infarcted region (n = 14) and in the hemisphere contralateral to the stroke (n = 8) and compared with data obtained from a group of 10 control subjects.Infarcts were characterized by significantly increased lactate (12 of 14 patients; 7.5 +/- 8.9 mumol/g wet weight, mean +/- SD) and significantly decreased NAA (12 of 14 patients; 5.5 +/- 3.2 mumol/g wet weight), compared with contralateral brain regions and control data in healthy volunteers. Signific...
Algebras over equivariant sphere spectra

Abstract We study the category of algebras over the sphere G -spectrum of a compact Lie group G . A priori, this category depends on which representations appear in the underlying universe on which G -spectra are indexed, but we prove that different universes give rise to equivalent categories of point-set level algebras. The relevant change of universe functors are defined on categories of modules over sphere spectra and induce the classical change of universe functors (which are not equivalences!) on passage to stable homotopy categories. In particular, we show how to construct equivariant algebras from nonequivariant algebras by change of universe. This gives a reservoir of equivariant examples to which recently developed algebraic techniques in stable homotopy theory can be applied.
Stability and Sterility of a Recombinant Factor VIII Concentrate Prepared for Continuous Infusion Administration

Minipumps may facilitate cost-effective and convenient continuous infusion (CI) therapy for severe hemophilia A. This study evaluated the in vitro sterility, ability to support bacterial growth, and specific activity stability of a recombinant factor VIII (FVIII; Bioclate, Centeon) delivered by simulated CI at a variety of temperatures and after the addition of heparin or antibiotic. Closed system CIs of Bioclate (89.5 IU/ml) with and without heparin were sampled and cultured over a 6 day period. Bioclate (53.7 IU/ml) with and without heparin or vancomycin was inoculated with 102-105 CFU/ml of S. aureus, S. epidermidis, Escherichia coli, E. cloacae, or Y. enterocolitica and assessed by quantitative culture after 1 and 3 days. The stability of Bioclate (50, 100, and 250 IU/ml) at three temperatures (21 degrees C, 37 degrees C, and 39 degrees C) with and without heparin or vancomycin was tested over a period of 28 days. FVIII activity was measured in triplicate by a chromogenic assay (Coamatic Factor VIII, Chromogenix) and purity evaluated by Western blot. No bacterial growth was detected during CI of FVIII for up to 6 days. Following bacterial inoculation, there was rapid growth (>3 log increase) of all tested bacterial species except S. aureus which only displayed a 1 log expansion at 3 days. The addition of heparin containing 9.45 microg/U benzyl alcohol had no effect on bacterial growth. The addition of vancomycin caused a modest suppression of S. aureus growth but not of E. coli. Diluent alone did not support bacterial growth. Neither concentration, increased temperature, nor the addition of heparin or vancomycin had a significant effect on FVIII activity stability. Samples retained >75% baseline activity for between 3 and 7 days, except the infusion of Bioclate 50 IU/ml plus heparin maintained at 21 degrees C which remained stable for 28 days. Western blot analysis supported the activity assay findings. Standard and concentrated preparations of Bioclate are suitable for CI when delivered by the MiniMed 404-SP minipump. Because of the observed nutritive capability of this FVIII concentrate for sustaining bacterial growth, any contamination could result in systemic infection.
Detection of Ca 2+ -Dependent Neuronal Activity Simultanously with Dynamic Changes in Cerebral Blood Flow, Blood Volume and Oxygenation in Somatosensory Cortex of the Live Rat Brain

We present our first in vivo results of simultaneous detection of intracellular calcium transients along with cerebral blood flow, blood volume and tissue oxygenation in rat somatosensory cortex during activation induced by electrical forepaw stimulation.
Position of the American Dietetic Association: Local Support for Nutrition Integrity in Schools

Abstract It is the position of the American Dietetic Association (ADA) that schools and communities have a shared responsibility to provide students with access to high-quality, affordable, nutritious foods and beverages. School-based nutrition services, including the provision of meals through the National School Lunch Program and the School Breakfast Program, are an integral part of the total education program. Strong wellness policies promote environments that enhance nutrition integrity and help students to develop lifelong healthy behaviors. ADA actively supported the 2004 and proposed 2010 Child Nutrition reauthorization which determines school nutrition policy. ADA believes that the Dietary Guidelines for Americans should serve as the foundation for all food and nutrition assistance programs and should apply to all foods and beverages sold or served to students during the school day. Local wellness policies are mandated by federal legislation for all school districts participating in the National School Lunch Program. These policies support nutrition integrity, including a healthy school environment. Nutrition integrity also requires coordinating nutrition education and promotion and funding research on program outcomes. Registered dietitians and dietetic technicians, registered, and other credentialed staff, are essential for nutrition integrity in schools to perform in policy-making, management, education, and community-building roles. A healthy school environment can be achieved through adequate funding of school meals programs and through implementation and evaluation of strong local wellness policies.
Experimental spectroscopic temperature measurements in the reflected wave region of a shock tube using the OH 2Σ → 2П band system

Experimental measurements of the population temperature behind the reflected shock in a shock tube are presented. Emission from two wave length intervals of the OH^2∑ → ^2Π electronic band system was measured photoelectrically, the signals observed being generated by a narrow core of hot gas in the reflected shock region looking axially up the tube. The ratio of the rate of increase of intensity, per unit increase of optical depth, in the two spectral regions is a unique function of the temperature for a transparent gas. The linearity of the signal increase with time represents an experimental verification of the transparency and equilibrium of the test gas. In the temperature range of 3300-4300°K (M_s ~ 4), the measured spectroscopic temperature was in good agreement with the calculated equilibrium temperature, the estimated accuracy of the spectroscopic temperature being ± 75°K. A relaxation time of about 25 µsec was observed for the (2,2) and (3,3) vibration bands to reach statistical equilibrium with the lower (0,0) and (1,1) vibrational levels in the ^2∑ state from which the emission occurred.
Electric Machine Drive Design Improvements Through Control and Digital Signal Processing Techniques

Developing the control algorithms of electric machine drives for less noise and harmonics is proposed here for design improvements. Modern control algorithms for electric machine drives are implemented, and their radiated magnetic fields are measured and imported into a digital signal processing unit. The measurement was implemented using magnetic field antennas which cover low frequencies. A digital signal processing unit was designed for online and real-time measurement and processing of the fields, and categorizing the harmonics. The controller compares the desired and measured signals and modifies the duty cycle of the switches to suppress the existing harmonics. The manual and automatic suppressions of some critical harmonics were implemented in two switching techniques using a defined procedure. Consequently, the modified control algorithm of the drive would radiate the electromagnetic stray field with less noise and harmonics. This leads to lower electromagnetic interference from the machine drive. Since there is no need to locate any sensor inside the machine or the converter, this can be considered as a nondestructive method for industry implementations, where it is impossible to access the parameters of components for online monitoring.