cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Linear time algorithms for finding and representing all the tandem repeats in a string

A tandem repeat (or square) is a string αα, where α is a non-empty string. We present an O(|S|)-time algorithm that operates on the suffix tree T(S) for a string S, finding and marking the endpoint in T(S) of every tandem repeat that occurs in S. This decorated suffix tree implicitly represents all occurrences of tandem repeats in S, and can be used to efficiently solve many questions concerning tandem repeats and tandem arrays in S. This improves and generalizes several prior efforts to efficiently capture large subsets of tandem repeats.
Thrombus or tumor? a case of fibroelastoma as indicated during the submission process

We describe the case of a 50-year-old woman who was admitted to a pheriferal department for heart failure. The echocardiography revealed a small mass measuring about 1.3 × 1.0 cm adhering to the non-coronary cusp of the aortic valve, mild dilated cardiomiopathy and severe biventricular dysfunction. This mass had erroneously been considered a thrombotic lesion, so the patient was treated with thrombolysis and heparin e.v. Only after a transoesophageal echocardiography a tumour cardiac mass was suspected. The diagnosis of fibroelastoma was confirmed by MRI and then from the anatomic and histoligical definition after surgery.
Placental lesions caused by experimental infection of Sprague-Dawley rats with Mycoplasma pulmonis.

Problem: Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats infected during pregnancy with Mycoplasma pulmonis display adverse pregnancy outcomes that are similar to those observed in women with chorioamnionitis and may provide a good model system for this disease. The placental lesions caused by this microorganism, however, have not been thoroughly characterized. Method of study: Rats were infected with 107 colony-forming units (CFU) M. pulmonis or vehicle control on gestation day (gd) 14 and were euthanized on gd 16–18. Tissues were fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin, embedded in paraffin, sectioned at 4 μm, and stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H & E). The slides were coded and examined by a blinded pathologist using light microscopy. Results: Infection with M. pulmonis was associated with necrosis of trophoblast giant cells at gd 18. Significantly more neutrophils were observed in the decidual region of the apex of the placenta in M. pulmonis infected animals. The vast majority of neutrophils, however, were observed in the decidua in the lateral regions of the placenta and in the adjacent endometrium. Conclusions: Infection of SD rats with M. pulmonis resulted in histological placentitis similar to that described in deciduitis of humans and represents a good model system for investigations into the pathophysiology of intrauterine infection. The influx of neutrophils seems to migrate from the endometrium towards the lateral regions of the placenta near Reichert's membrane and the divergence of the parietal yolk sac.
First-Order Torques and Solid-Body Spinning Velocities in Intense Sound Fields.

The letter reports an observation of first-order nonzero time-averaged torques and solid-body spinning velocities in intense acoustic fields. The experimental apparatus consisted of a vertical cylindrical rod supported on an air bearing and passing through a box with two loudspeakers centered on adjoining vertical sides. The rim velocity of the cylinder and the torque on the cylinder are measured as functions of air-particle velocity and the phase difference between the x and y components of the particle velocity. It is found that both rim velocity and torque are linear functions of particle velocity. Difficulties in constructing a proper theoretical description of the observed effects are discussed.
Osmotic pressure probe of actin-myosin hydration changes during ATP hydrolysis.

Osmotic stress in the 0.5–5 x 10(6) dyne/cm2 range was used to perturb the hydration of actin-myosin-ATP intermediates during steady-state hydrolysis. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) (1000 to 4000 Da), in the 1 to 10 wt% range, which does not cause protein precipitation, did not significantly affect the apparent KM or the Vmax for MgATP hydrolysis by myosin subfragment 1 (S1) alone, nor did it affect the value for the phosphate burst. Consistent with the kinetic data, osmotic stress did not affect nucleotide-induced changes in the fluorescence intensities of S1 tryptophans or of fluorescein attached to Cys-707. The accessibility of the fluorescent ATP analog, epsilon ADP, to acrylamide quenching was also unchanged. These data suggest that none of the steps in the ATP hydrolysis cycle involve substantial hydration changes, which might occur for the opening or closing of the ATP site or of other crevices in the S1 structure. In contrast, KM for the interaction of S1.MgADP.Pi with actin decreased tenfold in this range of osmotic pressure, suggesting that formation of actin.S1.MgADP.Pi involves net dehydration of the proteins. The dehydration volume increases as the size of the PEG is increased, as expected for a surface-excluded osmolyte. The measured dehydration volume for the formation of actin.S1.MgADP.Pi was used to estimate the surface area of the binding interface. This estimate was consistent with the area determined from the atomic structures of actin and myosin, indicating that osmotic stress is a reliable probe of actin.myosin.ATP interactions. The approach developed here should be useful for determining osmotic stress and excluded volume effects in situ, which are much larger than those of typical in vitro conditions.
Effect of synergists on the oral and topical toxicity of azamethiphos to organophosphate-resistant houseflies (Diptera: Muscidae)

Dermal and oral toxicities of azamethiphos were determined in two organophosphate- resistant and one susceptible strain of houseflies, Musca domestica L. The 594vb strain was I,967-fold more resistant to azamethiphos when compared with the susceptible Chemical Specialties Manufacturers Association (CSMA) strain by dermal application. When the compound was administered orally to the 594vb strain, we observed only a 15-fold resistance. In contrast, the Yachiyo strain, which show I,500-fold resistance to diazinon and which has known multiple mechanisms for organophosphate resistance, showed only 6-fold resistance to azamethiphos by topical application and 4-fold resistance by oral administration. Azamethiphos administered dermally and orally was equally toxic to the CSMA and Yachiyo strains. However, when azamethiphos was administered to the 594vb strain, the insecticide was 71 times more toxic orally than by the dermal route. This result indicated involvement of a cuticular penetration factor in the resistance mechanism. The effect on azamethiphos toxicity of piperonyl butoxide (PB), an inhibitor of the monooxygenases, and tributylphosphorotrithioate (DE F), an esterase inhibitor, was investigated in the three strains. Pretreatment of the flies with PB, DEF, or PB + DEF before topical application of azamethiphos resulted in a significant decrease in LD50s in all the strains. The degree of synergism, however, varied depending upon the strains and the synergists. Similar results were obtained when azamethiphos was administered orally following pretreatment of the flies with PB + DEF. We attribute the high level of azamethiphos resistance in the 594vb strain partly to increased degradation by oxidative and hydrolytic enzymes. The hydrolytic enzymes are more important, but other factors including reduced cuticular penetration and insensitive acetylcholinesterase may be involved. However, neither the degradation enzymes nor the penetration factor is involved in the moderate level of azamethiphos resistance in the Yachiyo strain.
The uptick rule and stock returns: an analysis of Regulation SHO on the NYSE

This article investigates the impact of short sale constraints on stock returns in a powerful setting in which the uptick rule on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) was suspended for a given set of stocks (pilot stocks) by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in 2005. Comparing future stock returns for pilot stocks and control stocks, I show that the suspension of the uptick rule on average mitigates stock overvaluation by 3.5% of the stock value during a 1-year time period. This effect is profound in stocks with no options, small stocks, and value stocks. Findings in this article are consistent with Miller's (1977) overpricing hypothesis and suggest that removing the uptick rule help improve market efficiency by bringing stock prices closer to their fundamental values.
Histochemistry of microvascular smooth muscle in the gastrointestinal tract.

Abstract Representative enzymes and substrates of the major metabolic pathways were analyzed and compared in submucosal arteriolar smooth muscle of the stomach, ileum, and colon by histochemical methods. Anaerobic glycolysis was represented by lactate dehydrogenase, the Krebs cycle by isocitrate dehydrogenase, and the respiratory chain by cytochrome oxidase. The hexose monophosphate shunt was represented by glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, while fat utilization was demonstrated by β-hydroxybutyrate. Glycogen, cholesterol, free fatty acid, and neutral fat levels were also determined. The results of the study indicate that, in general, the ileal microvessels are metabolically more diverse than those of the stomach and colon. Unlike stomach and colon microvessels, arteriolar smooth muscle in the ileum maintains large endogenous stores of carbohydrates and fats. In addition, ileal microvessels possess a high potential for energy production via each of the major metabolic pathways. The metabolic profile of colonic microvessels was similar to that of ileum except for the absence of endogenous substrate stores. Stomach microvessels also lacked endogenous substrate stores; yet, unlike ileum and colon microvessels, no discernible glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity was determined for these vessels. The results of this study indicate that the metabolic machinery of vascular smooth muscle varies markedly between the functionally related organs of the gastrointestinal tract.
Benign soft-tissue neoplasm simulating sarcoma of spermatic cord.

A large, painless, slow-growing mass arising in the scrotum of a twenty-three-yearold man, which proved to be benign myxoma, simulated a primary sarcoma of the spermatic cord. Only I case of myxoma involving the spermatic cord has been reported previously. It is extreme important that multiple microscopic sections of the specimen be examined carefully so that the proper tissue diagnosis can be made. A false diagnosis of malignancy may lead to treatment that not indicated and that has a high morbidity.
Treatment of adults with familial hypercholesterolemia and evidence for treatment: recommendations from the National Lipid Association Expert Panel on Familial Hypercholesterolemia.

Patients with familial hypercholesterolemias (FH) are at greatly increased lifetime risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). If left untreated, most individuals with FH will experience premature coronary heart disease (CHD) and/or stroke. The mean age of onset of a cardiovascular event in men with FH is in the early 40s and in women with FH in the early 50s. Although fewer than 5% of acute myocardial infarctions (AMI) occur in individuals #40 years of age, FH is associated with a 24-fold increase in the risk of myocardial infarction by age 40. In western countries, the prevalence of CVD in middle-aged individuals with FH ranges from 22% to 39%. Therefore, all individuals with FH, regardless of age, will require lifestyle and drug
Does the Geography Major Fit in STEM

STEM education plays a significant role in developing reasoning and technical skills among other benefits. Definitions of geography vary somewhat, but most of the sources define geography as a science. Geography relates to the STEM disciplines with application of geographical tools to solve problems. However, geography is not included as a STEM discipline by federal authorities in the United States (US). This paper presents evidence from US graduate and undergraduate geography programs demonstrating how geography qualifies as a STEM discipline, a qualification that could provide a variety of benefits for the programs and students alike. This research suggests that more than 50% of US colleges/universities confer Bachelor of Science (BS) or Master of Science (MS) degrees in geography and the distribution of these institutions occurs in most states. Therefore, geography has already been recognized as a STEM major by these US colleges/universities that offer STEM coursework including physical geography, Geographic Information System (GIS), remote sensing, natural resources, environmental science, and atmospheric science. Hence, it follows that government authorities should recognize geography as STEM.
A century of case-control studies: progress?

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the progress in the development of case-control studies. The conceptual basis for case-control studies, which means retrospective or cross-sectional studies, is the comparison of one group with another regarding one or more characteristics of interest. This is the reason why case-control studies are an integral part of the epidemiologic approach that is concerned with making comparisons between groups of individuals or of total populations. The idea that such comparisons are useful developed by comparing different agents or methods that are used in the treatment of disease. There are isolated instances of such reports in the 16th and 17th centuries. The number of therapeutic trials that were recorded increased in the 18th century, reflecting the scientific climate of the times. In assessing new methods of treatment, historical controls or prior personal experiences were used. When one compares the present situation with the situation in the past, it is noted that the main difference has been a justification and an increased refinement in the methods used, reflecting refinements in statistical methodology.
Short-time behavior of quantum correlation functions in rate theory

The quantum autocorrelation function of number fluctuations, important in reaction rate theory, decays as ¦t¦32 near t = 0. This is in contrast to the classical case, where the decay is proportional to ¦t¦with coefficient determined by the transition state approximation to the reaction rate.
Triple frequency GPS signal tracking during strong ionospheric scintillations over Ascension Island

This paper presents software receiver processing results of GPS L1, L2C, and L5 signals undergoing strong ionosphere scintillation. The data used in this study were obtained from a multi-GNSS multi-band IF data collection system at Ascension Island in March 2013. Detailed signal processing algorithms and scintillation indices calculated from carrier tracking loop output such as S4 and σ φ are presented and the results are compared with the output of a co-located Septentrio PolaRxS receiver.
Y-stent coiling of basilar bifurcation aneurysms induces a dynamic angular vascular remodeling with alteration of the apical wall shear stress pattern.

BACKGROUND Although wide-necked basilar bifurcation aneurysms are treated with Y-stent coiling, the effect of this intervention on vessel configuration and hemodynamics is unknown. OBJECTIVE To investigate the immediate and delayed effects of Y-stenting using self-expanding microstents on basilar bifurcation architecture and hemodynamics. METHODS Fifteen patients underwent basilar Y-stent coiling and imaging with rotational angiography. Vascular angles were measured between proximal P1 segments of the posterior cerebral arteries (α) and between the basilar artery and each P1 segment (β(1,2)) in the anteroposterior and γ(1,2) sagittal planes. Patient-specific computational fluid dynamic analysis was used to estimate wall shear stress (WSS) changes with treatment. RESULTS In the anteroposterior plane, Y-stenting significantly decreased angle α and increased β angles immediately after stent coiling (P < .05 and P < .01, respectively) in a continued dynamic remodeling that progressed further in later months; sagittal γ angles also decreased (P < .0001). This novel stent-induced geometric progressive remodeling resulted in effective straightening and narrowing of the basilar bifurcation angle α (150.0 degrees vs 113 degrees, P < .0001) with significant correlation (r = 0.39, P < .05) between pretreatment proximal P1 angles and maximal angular change. Computational fluid dynamic analysis showed the angular remodeling led to significant narrowing of the WSS interpeak at the apex, redirecting high WSS away from the neck transition zone with native vessel toward the inert coil mass. CONCLUSION Y-configuration stent coiling induced immediate and, more significantly, a previously undefined delayed cerebrovascular remodeling. This progressive stent-induced angular remodeling alters perianeurysmal hemodynamics, independent of the flow-diverting properties of stent struts, thus shifting the balance of hemodynamic forces affecting aneurysm development and evolution.
Neuroproteomics of the Synapse and Drug Addiction

Proteomic analyses of brain tissues are becoming an integral component of neuroscientific research. In particular, the essential role of the synapse in neurotransmission and plasticity has brought about extensive efforts to identify its protein constituents. Recent studies have used a combination of subcellular fractionation and proteomic techniques to identify proteins associated with different components of the synapse. Thus, a coherent map of the synapse proteome is rapidly emerging, and a timely review of these data is warranted. In the first part of this review, neuroproteomic techniques that have been used to analyze the synapse proteome are described. We then summarize the results from several recent proteomic analyses of mammalian synapses and discuss the similarities and differences in their profiling of synaptic proteins. Important advances in this field of research include the use of proteomics to analyze synaptic function and drug effects on synaptic proteins. This article presents an overview of proteomic analyses of the phosphorylation states of synaptic proteins and recent applications of neuroproteomic techniques to the study of drug addiction. Finally, we discuss the challenges in comparing proteomic studies of drug addiction and the future directions of this field in furthering our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying synaptic function and drug addiction.
A Bio-Inspired Miniature Comb Sense Differential Microphone Diaphragm

A highly innovative miniature silicon comb sense differential microphone diaphragm is described that is highly stable when subjected to various bias voltages [1]. The bio-inspired microphone diaphragm consists of a 1mm by 2mm stiffener-reinforced plate fabricated out of phosphorous doped polysilicon that is supported on a central hinge [2, 3, and 4]. Interdigitated comb fingers are formed around the perimeter at the ends of the diaphragm by reactive ion etching the polysilicon to create the gaps between the two sets of comb fingers. It is demonstrated with a fabricated prototype device that this design avoids many key limitations of capacitive microphones through use of a unique comb-sensing design and approach. It provides the means for design and construction of highly innovative capacitive microphones with enhanced sensitivity that can be readily and cost-effectively produced through silicon microfabrication. Potential applications include manufacturing of next-generation hearing aids, security devices, portable digital devices, cell phones and teleconferencing equipment.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Relationship between interstitial cells of Cajal and enteric motor neurons in the murine proximal colon.

Interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) are interposed between enteric neurons and smooth muscle cells in gastrointestinal (GI) muscles. The specific relationships between these cells in the murine proximal colon were studied with conventional and immunoelectron microscopy and immunohistochemistry. Intramuscular interstitial cells (IC-IM) formed discrete networks within the circular muscle layer of the murine proximal colon. Nerve trunks ran in close association with IC-IM and individual nerve trunks came into close contact with multiple IC-IM. Conventional electron microscopy revealed very close (≤20 nm) associations between nerve fibers and IC-IM. Processes of IC-IM also formed close contacts with neighboring smooth muscle cells. At the points of close association between neurons and IC-IM, areas of membrane densification in both pre- and postjunctional cells were present, suggesting specialized contacts or synaptic-like structures. Similar points of contact between neurons and smooth muscle cells were extremely rare. Immunoelectron microscopy demonstrated that IC-IM formed close associations with neurons containing nitric oxide synthase-like immunoreactivity (NOS-LI) or vesicular acetylcholine transporter-like immunoreactivity (vAChT-LI), suggesting innervation by both inhibitory and excitatory motor neurons. IC-IM were also labeled with anti-NOS antibodies. These observations suggest that IC-IM are an integral part of the neuromuscular junction in the colon. These cells may be the primary site of innervation, and neural regulation of the musculature may occur via IC-IM.
Kinetics of enzyme-mediated reduction of lipid soluble nitroxide spin labels by living cells.

Abstract Nitroxide spin labels can be reduced to the corresponding hydroxylamines in cells. The selective action of inhibitors, and thermal and chemical inactivation demonstrate that the reduction of nitroxides in cells is an enzymatic or enzyme-mediated process. The kinetics of reduction of doxylstearates are affected by the position of the doxyl moiety along the stearic acid chain. The doxyl molety of 5-doxylstearate is close to the membrane surface, and its reduction is first order with respect to the nitroxide, whereas the doxyl moieties of 10- and 12-doxylstocrate are in the membrane hydrocarbon region and their reduction is a zero-order process. The reduction of 16-doxylstearate which usually has a mixture of first- and zero-order kinetics becomes zero order with addition of an extracellular broadening agent, potassium trioxalatochromiate(III). These results suggest that the rate of reduction of doxyl moieties is controlled by their accessibility to reducing equivalents, i.e., the rate-limiting step for the reduction of the doxyl moiety deep in the membrane is the diffusion of reducing equivalents within or into the membrane. The reduction of doxylstearates in cells is inhibited by rotenone but not antimycin A, cyanide, propyl gallate or SKF-525A. It appears that the reduction of doxylstearates takes place at the level of the ubiquine in the respiratory chain in mitochondria in these cells.
What is passing through toll gate 4: lipids or infection?

Abstract In this issue of the journal, Zhou and colleagues reported that hyperlipidemia might play a role in the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-1β which are associated with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and periodontitis. Not only hyperlipidemia but many obesity-related conditions such as hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome are perceived as “threats” or as a “danger” by the innate immune system and express these cytokines. T2D is one of these conditions that elicit metabolic inflammation (meta-inflammation) and the hallmark of meta-inflammation is low grade inflammation. In addition, T2D and periodontitis are strongly correlated to each other and to innate immunity. This creates a confounding relationship. The dental research community is now required to acknowledge the concept that infection is not the only trigger for innate immune activation. The review by Zhou et al. may be the first step in the right direction to establish the orthogonal contribution of oral infection independent of meta-inflammation.
Peroral endoscopy in neonates

A study was made of 100 neonates examined by 171 procedures in a 5 year period. Thirty-six patients had vocal cord palsies: unilateral, bilateral, complete or incomplete. Twenty-four infants had laryngomalacia of which 5 had concomitant problems of multiple congenital anomalies or palsies of varying severity. Laryngeal stenosis was encountered in 13 patients. Four of these were congenital, and two required tracheotomy; 8 of the 9 patients with acquired stenosis required tracheotomy. Nine infants had cardiovascular anomalies. Three were seen following TEF repair. Esophageal foreign bodies (endotracheal tube) were removed from two infants. Of the 28 neonates who had tracheotomies, 13 had vocal cord palsies, 10 had laryngeal stenosis and 8 had congenital cardiovascular disease. In the 171 procedures, anesthesia was used 18 times for tracheotomy and 7 times for repeated procedures. There were 3 deaths in this series, all related to the underlying disease. This study indicates that endoscopic examinations of the neonate can be accomplished safely. It further indicates the diverse diseases for which endoscopy is indicated. General anesthesia is not mandatory for such examinations.
Equilibrium water uptake and diffusion behavior in model polynorbornene photoresist polymers

As 193 nm immersion lithography continues to evolve, the need to understand the effect of the immersing liquid on the resulting photoresist properties continues to grow. With this in mind, the sorption of water (using both liquid and vapor environments) in two model photoresist polymer resins based on functionalized poly(norbornene) was examined using quartz crystal microbalance techniques. Similar to the results presented by Berger and coworkers, it was found that the water uptake in bis-trifluoromethyl carbinol substituted polynorbornene (HFAPNB) increases as the polymer molecular weight increases, while the diffusion coefficient of water in these materials remains relatively constant over the same range in molecular weight.' In contrast, trifluorosulphonamide-substituted polynorbornene displays a relatively constant level of water uptake as a function of polymer molecular weight, while the diffusion coefficient decreases by more than an order of magnitude over the same molecular weight range. Sorption experiments performed as a function of temperature have shown that the water diffusion in these polynorbornene polymers can be described using an Arrhenius relationship. The activation energy of water diffusion was compared in both HFAPNB and poly(hydroxystyrene). The activation energy for diffusion of water in HFAPNB is substantially larger than in the case of poly(hydroxystyrene). This is consistent with the view that polynorbornenes possess relatively stiff and rigid backbones as compared to more flexible polymers such as poly(hydroxystyrene). The activation energy for water diffusion in HFAPNB was found to be a strong function of polymer molecular weight, with the activation energy decreasing with increasing molecular weight.
Organization of the spino-cervico-thalamic system.

In addition to the classical spino-thalamic and medial lemniscal systems in mammals, there is a spino-cervico-thalamic system relayed by the nucleus cervicalis lateralis. This nucleus is a well defined nucleus situated in the lateral funiculus, ventrolateral to the dorsal horn. It is a slender cell column, extending from the lower portion of the medulla through the upper two cervical segments of the spinal cord of the cat as well as some other mammals including primates. Experimental studies have shown that the nucleus cervicalis lateralis serves as a second relay nucleus, projecting to the ventral posterior lateral nucleus of contralateral thalamus. It receives impulses from dorsal root fibers via three different first relay nuclei, namely, Clarke's column, ventral spinocerebellar tract neurons, and the large-sized neurons in dorsal horn of lower lumbar through sacral segments. The morphology of neurons of the nucleus cervicalis lateralis is unique. The dendrites are well confined in the nucleus and most of them run in the longitudinal direction. Golgi studies revealed the collaterals from dorsal portion of the lateral funiculus to the nucleus. Three types of terminals, namely, bouton of passage, terminal clusters and basket-like terminals, were found in this nucleus.
Stretching the Immunoglobulin 27 Domain of the Titin Protein: The Dynamic Energy Landscape

Molecular simulations are carried out on the Immunoglobulin 27 domain of the titin protein. The energy landscape is mapped out using an implicit solvent model, and molecular dynamics simulations are run with the solvent explicitly modeled. Stretching a protein is shown to produce a dynamic energy landscape in which the energy minima move in configuration space, change in depth, and are created and destroyed. The connections of these landscape changes to the mechanical unfolding of the Immunoglobulin 27 domain are addressed. Hydrogen bonds break upon stretching by either intrabasin processes associated with the movement of energy minima, or interbasin processes associated with transitions between energy minima. Intrabasin changes are reversible and dominate for flexible interactions, whereas interbasin changes are irreversible and dominate for stiff interactions. The most flexible interactions are Glu-Lys salt bridges, which can act like tethers to bind strands even after all backbone interactions between the strands have been broken. As the protein is stretched, different types of structures become the lowest energy structures, including structures that incorporate nonnative hydrogen bonds. Structures that have flat energy versus elongation profiles become the lowest energy structures at elongations of several Angstroms, and are associated with the unfolding intermediate state observed experimentally.
Janus kinase inhibitors for the treatment of myeloproliferative neoplasias and beyond

Recent advances in our understanding of the pathogenesis of the Philadelphia chromosome-negative myeloproliferative neoplasms, polycythaemia vera, essential thrombocythaemia and myelofibrosis have led to the identification of the mutation V617F in Janus kinase (JAK) as a potential therapeutic target. This information has prompted the development of ATP-competitive JAK2 inhibitors. Therapy with JAK2 inhibitors may induce rapid and marked reductions in spleen size and can lead to remarkable improvements in constitutional symptoms and overall quality of life. Because JAKs are involved in the pathogenesis of inflammatory and immune-mediated disorders, JAK inhibitors are also being tested in clinical trials in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis, as well as for the treatment of other autoimmune diseases and for the prevention of allograft rejection. Preliminary results indicate that these agents hold great promise for the treatment of JAK-driven disorders.
Visual Detection of Cryptic Prey by Blue Jays (Cyanocitta cristata)

Blue jays learned to respond differentially to the presence or absence of Catocala moths in slides. This detection of the moths by the jays was affected by the background upon which the moth was placed and its body orientation, thus providing an objective measure of crypticity. These procedures are useful for the study of visual detection of prey.
Critical spin dynamics in EuO

Mode-mode coupling equations have been solved for the decay rates of the hydrodynamic spin fluctuations in the vicinity of the critical point in EuO. Dipolar effects are included. With no adjustable parameters calculated values of the spin-wave linewidth and the paramagnetic spin diffusion constant are in reasonable agreement with available experimental data for vertical-bar 1 - T/T/subc/ vertical-bar approximately-greater-than 0.05. (AIP)
Toxicity of Zectran to Western Spruce Budworm as a Function of Application Site

The place of application of an insecticide to an insect affects toxicity (Fisher 1952). In our study of the toxicity of Zectran® (4-dimethylamino-3,5-xylyl methylcarbamate), several formulations were tested for their effects on the western spruce budworm, Choristoneura occidentalis Freeman. One of the formulations was a water-soluble salt of Zectran (Zectran hydrochloride). We noted that discrete droplets could be formed and applied at any point on the bud worm larva. Acetone solutions of Zectran do not remain at the point of application, but they spread out over several segments. The ability of the water-soluble formulation to remain at the site of application was used to investigate the effect of application site on mortality.
Effects of salinity and temperature on Deschampsia antarctica

Deschampsia antarctica is one of two species of vascular plants native to Antarctica. Populations of D. antarctica have become established on recently exposed glacial forelands on the Antarctic Peninsula and these plants may rely upon nutrient inputs from hauled out mammals, seabirds and sea spray. However, not much is known about the ability of these plants to tolerate salinity stress. We examined the effects of salinity and temperature on growth, reproduction, chlorophyll fluorescence and water relations of D. antarctica. In addition, we analysed concentrations of free proline in leaves and roots as previous studies have found large increases in the concentration of this amino acid in response to environmental stress. The growth chamber experiment was a 3 × 3 (temperature × salinity) complete factorial. Plants were grown at three temperature regimes: 7°/7°C, 12°/7°C, and 20°/7°C day/night and three salinity levels: <0.02 decismen per metre (dS m−1; “low salinity”), 2.5 dS m−1 (“medium salinity”), and 5.0 dS m−1 (“high salinity”) for 66 days. Warmer temperatures improved leaf and tiller production as well as leaf and root length, which is consistent with previous findings on this species. Salinity reduced final root length by 6 and 13% in the medium and high-salinity treatments, respectively. Plants growing in medium and high-salinity treatments had xylem pressures that were more negative and higher free-proline concentrations, suggesting that proline may act as an osmoregulant in D. antarctica.
Formal synthesis of leustroducsin B via Reformatsky/Claisen condensation of silyl glyoxylates.

A formal synthesis of leustroducsin B has been completed. The synthesis relies upon a recently developed Reformatsky/Claisen condensation of silyl glyoxylates and enantioenriched β-lactones that establishes two of the molecule’s three core stereocenters and permits further elaboration to an intermediate in Imanishi’s synthesis via reliable chemistry (Prasad reduction, asymmetric pentenylation, Mitsunobu inversion).
The dynamics of corporate culture: conception and theory

This paper analyzes and explains the dynamics of corporate evolution in the context of anthropologist conception of culture. The multinational corporate characterizing the Galbraithian world, as The New Industrial State, dominates the current economic landscape. The conception of corporate culture and its dynamics lays bare the locus of corporate power which resides in the control of corporate technology. Granting this dynamic, the question then arises concerning the agency which controls the application and use of this cumulated corporate power. Corporate power and policy in the USA are currently directed by a social institution in the form of profits without social responsibility. This policy is manifest in a “low road” of cost reduction. Such a policy direction exacerbates rather than ameliorates the current economic malaise now characterizing the US economy.
Reproductive performance of dwarf breeder pullets fed yellow peas (Pisum sativum L. var. ‘Miranda’)

Abstract An experiment was conducted to determine the suitability of a variety of yellow field pea ( Pisum sativum L. var. ‘Miranda’) as a feed ingredient for dwarf broiler breeder pullets. Two hundred and twenty-five pullets were fed either corn-soy (CS) or corn-pea (CP) diets from Day 1 to 46 weeks of age. The diets were isonitrogenous, isocaloric and supplemented with d,l -methionine. The dietary treatment groups were reared in adjacent floor pens from Day 1 to 22 weeks of age. At this age, 32 pullets from each dietary treatment were selected based on uniformity of body weight, placed in individual cages and photostimulated by increasing the daily photoperiod. Following the initiation of lay, the following performance variables were measured: hen-day egg production, egg weight, fertility and lialchability of fertilized eggs. No differences ( P > 0.05) were observed between the two groups (CS and CP) for the reproductive variables measured. This study demonstrates that the ‘Miranda’ variety of field pea, which can be grown in the Pacific Northwest of the US, can be used as an alternative feed ingredient for dwarf broiler breeder pullets.
Asymmetric acquired demyelinating polyneuropathies: MMN and MADSAM

More than a half a century after Austin’s initial description of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP), the clinical spectrum of chronic acquired demyelinating polyneuropathies has expanded. Currently there are a number of entities that can be put under the heading of chronic acquired demyelinating neuropathy (CADP) based on differing clinical presentations. In this scheme, CIDP is used only to refer to patients with demyelinating neuropathies and generalized symmetric weakness. In contrast, multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN) and multifocal acquired demyelinating sensory and motor neuropathy (MADSAM) fall into the category of asymmetrical, multifocal forms of CADP. These are distinguished from each other only by the presence of sensory involvement. In our opinion, there are pragmatic reasons for splitting these clinical presentations into distinct entities. Although each of these clinical subtypes shares some basic similarities, there are important differences. MMN is usually considered resistant to corticosteroid therapy and the first line agent in this disorder is intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg). MADSAM neuropathy can be responsive to prednisone or IVIg, and has a profile more analogous to classic CIDP with regards to its laboratory features and treatment response.
FUNDAMENTAL SOLUTIONS FOR HERMITE AND SUBELLIPTIC OPERATORS

In this article, we introduce a geometric method based on multipliers to compute heat kernels for operators with potentials. Using the heat kernel, we compute the fundamental solution for the Hermite operator with singularity at an arbitrary point on Euclidean space and on Heisenberg groups. As a consequence, we obtain the fundamental solutions for the sub-laplacian □J in a family of quadratic submanifolds.
Graded Encoding of Food Odor Value in the Drosophila Brain

Odors are highly evocative, yet how and where in the brain odors derive meaning remains unknown. Our analysis of the Drosophila brain extends the role of a small number of hunger-sensing neurons to include food-odor value representation. In vivo two-photon calcium imaging shows the amplitude of food odor-evoked activity in neurons expressing Drosophila neuropeptide F (dNPF), the neuropeptide Y homolog, strongly correlates with food-odor attractiveness. Hunger elevates neural and behavioral responses to food odors only, although food odors that elicit attraction in the fed state also evoke heightened dNPF activity in fed flies. Inactivation of a subset of dNPF-expressing neurons or silencing dNPF receptors abolishes food-odor attractiveness, whereas genetically enhanced dNPF activity not only increases food-odor attractiveness but promotes attraction to aversive odors. Varying the amount of presented odor produces matching graded neural and behavioral curves, which can function to predict preference between odors. We thus demonstrate a possible motivationally scaled neural "value signal" accessible from uniquely identifiable cells.
Double-Δ excitation in pion absorption on 4He

Abstract The mechanism of double Δ-excitation is examined in the 4 He(π, 4N) reaction. It is found that this mechanism contributes appreciably to the total absorption cross section in the energy range of 450–600 MeV.
Introduction to Diffraction Limited X-Ray Optics

We discuss the ability of x-ray optics to form images at or near the diffraction limit. These include diffractive optics and zone plates for soft x-rays, and reflective optics for the extreme ultraviolet.
Preparing Teachers for the Education of New Immigrant Students from Africa.

Abstract The purpose of this study is to fill a gap related to the limited number of multicultural studies related to African immigrants in the U.S. and their educational issues. This study will a) analyze the emotional, linguistic and cultural issues facing new immigrants from Africa attending American schools, and b) provide strategies that teachers can use to develop effective intercultural communication with their students and their parents from Africa.
Measuring problem behaviors in children with mental retardation: dimensions and predictors.

Scores from the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL; Achenbach, 1991a ) and the Client Development Evaluation Report (CDER; California Department of Developmental Services, 1980) for 67 children and adolescents with mental retardation were examined to evaluate the factorial validity of the instruments. Four factor analyses were conducted. The initial factor analysis of CBCL data failed to confirm the presence of the five first-order factors previously reported for the CBCL standardization sample ( Athenbach, 1991b ). Second, the higher-order factors of Externalizing and Internalizing behaviors, similar to the structure reported for the CBCL standardization sample ( Athenbach, 1991b ), were confirmed on the present sample. Third, the two CDER factors of Personal Maladaption and Social Maladaption, previously identified by Widaman, Gibbs, and Geary (1987) , were also confirmed. Finally, a higher-order factor analysis of the two factor scores from the CBCL and two factor scores from the CDER was conducted to study the congruence between the CBCL Externalizing and CDER Social Maladaption dimensions, and between the CBCL Internalizing and CDER Personal Maladaption factors. Moderate levels of congruence were found. Next, child characteristics, including level of mental retardation, age, and four dimensions of adaptive behavior, were used as predictors of problem behavior. No child characteristics were significantly related to the CBCL Externalizing dimension, but child age and level of mental retardation were significant predictors of the CBCL Internalizing dimension. CDER Cognitive Competence predicted CDER Social Maladaption, and child age predicted CDER Personal Maladaption. The findings are discussed in relation to previous studies of problem behaviors of children and adolescents with mental retardation.
Coordinating existing expert systems

This paper describes a framework and a design technique which address the problems inherent in coordinating the activities of distinct and operational expert systems. The framework, which combines aspects of blackboard and network approaches, simultaneously allows for a full range of interaction between existing systems and imposes a minimum of localized change on them. It specifies that each component system project a model of itself to a global expert which, in turn, represents the reasons motivating the coordination. The technique, based on Basili's top-down data collection methodology, uses the reasons for coordination to derive descriptions of necessary component models. An example is provided which demonstrates the utility of both the framework and the technique.
First-principles determination of the effect of boron on aluminum grain boundary cohesion

Despite boron being a common alloying element in aluminum, its segregation into the aluminum grain boundary and its effect on the grain boundary strength have not been studied. Here, the electronic structures of the boron-doped $\ensuremath{\Sigma}5(012)[100]$ symmetrical tilt grain boundary and (012) free surface systems for aluminum are investigated by means of first-principles calculations using the full-potential linearized augmented plane-wave method with the generalized gradient approximation, within the framework of the Rice-Wang thermodynamic model and the theoretical tensile test approach. We establish that boron has a large driving force to segregate from Al bulk to the symmetrical grain boundary hollow site, and its segregation significantly enhances the grain boundary strength. Through precise calculations on both the grain boundary and free surface environments, it is found that boron is a strong cohesion enhancer in aluminum with a potency of \ensuremath{-}0.19 eV/atom. An analysis in terms of the relaxed atomic and electronic structures and bonding characters shows that the aluminum-boron bond has mixed covalent and metallic character and is strong in both grain boundary and free surface environments. The strengthening effect of boron is due to creation of additional B--Al bonds across the grain boundary, which are as strong as existing Al--Al transgranular bonds and thus significantly increase grain boundary adhesion and its resistance to tensile stress and cracking.
Guest Editors' Introduction to Practical Parallel EDA

The articles in this special section focus on parallel computing platforms in electronic design automation.
The human osteocalcin promoter directs bone-specific vitamin D-regulatable gene expression in transgenic mice.

Osteocalcin is a major noncollagenous protein of bone regulated by 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25-(OH)2D3] and is believed to be expressed only by differentiated osteoblasts. We introduced a 3.9-kilobase human osteocalcin gene promoter (hOCP)-chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) fusion gene into the germ line of mice. Examination of tissue extracts from these transgenic mice demonstrated that the expression of CAT was restricted to bone-associated tissues and the brain. Immunohistochemical staining of femur tissue sections using CAT antibodies localized the production of CAT protein to osteoblasts and maturing chondrocytes. Previous studies via transient transfection into osteoblast-like cells have identified a vitamin D response element approximately 500 basepairs up-stream of the hOCP capable of mediating 1,25-(OH)2D3 induction. As a consequence, regulation of the transgene was examined in homozygous transgenic lines for sensitivity to 1,25-(OH)2D3. Hormonal deficiency was created using a low calcium...
Extruded Versus Raw Ground Soybeans for Dairy Cows in Early Lactation

Abstract Twenty-four Holstein cows (12 primiparous, 12 multiparous) were allotted 2 wk prior to parturition to one of two treatments. For 10 wk after parturition, cows of each age group received either 2.27kg extruded (150°C) soybeans or 2.27kg of raw ground soybeans in addition to corn silage and concentrate in a complete mixed ration (formulated for early lactation). Cows consumed 2.9, 2.8, 3.0, and 2.9% of body weight for the primiparous and multiparous groups fed extruded soybean and for the primiparous and multiparous groups fed raw ground soybean, respectively. Milk production in kilogram and milk fat percent for these same groups were 23.2, 2.67; 28.9, 2.68; 23.6, 3.07; and 27.2, 3.00. Milk fat percent was different between treatments. Because cows receiving extruded soybeans produced slightly more milk than cows consuming raw soybeans, there was no difference in 4% fat-corrected milk. Also, there were no differences in rumen physiology attributable to treatment. Formulating complete rations containing corn silage as the main fiber source and adequate in energy requirements for early lactation may predispose cows to a low fiber, milk fat depression syndrome. Feeding extruded soybeans to dairy cows in early lactation demonstrated no advantages over feeding raw ground soybeans.