cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hyper-abundance of Native Wild Pigs (Sus scrofa) in a Lowland Dipterocarp Rain Forest of Peninsular Malaysia1

Abstract This study reports extraordinarily high density estimates for the wild pig (Sus scrofa) from an aseasonal tropical forest site within the species' native range. At Pasoh Forest Reserve, a 2500 ha area of lowland dipterocarp rain forest in Peninsular Malaysia, line transects were used to estimate pig density from May to October in 1996 and 1998. In 1996, 44 sightings of S. scrofa consisting of 166 individuals were recorded along 81 km of transects. In 1998, 39 sightings documented 129 individuals along 79.9 km of transects. Estimated population density was 47.0 pigs/km2 in 1996 and 27.0 pigs/km2 in 1998. Sus scrofa biomass in this forest was estimated at 1837 kg/km2 and 1346 kg/km2 in 1996 and 1998, respectively. Differences between years were attributed to changes in the density of young pigs, coincident with a mast-seeding year of dipterocarp trees in 1996. Pig densities at Pasoh Forest Reserve were much higher than at other forest locations within the species' native range in Europe and Asia. B...
Effects of Average Childhood Dairy Intake on Adolescent Bone Health

Objective To evaluate the effects of usual childhood dairy intake on adolescent bone health. Study design Dietary data collected in the Framingham Children's Study over 12 years were used to evaluate usual dairy consumption and adolescent bone health. Each child's average Food Pyramid servings were estimated from yearly sets of 3-day diet records. Bone mineral content (BMC) and area (BA) for total body and 6 regions (arms, legs, trunk, ribs, pelvis, and spine) at ages 15 to 17 years were the primary outcomes. Analysis of covariance was used to adjust for potential confounding by sex and physical activity, as well as age, height, body mass index and percent body fat at the time of the bone scan. Results Consuming ≥ 2 servings/day of dairy (versus less) was associated with significantly higher mean BMC and BA. Higher intakes of meats/other proteins (≥ 4 servings per/day) were also associated with higher mean BMC and BA values. Children with higher intakes of both dairy and meats/other proteins had the highest adjusted BMC (3090.1 g), and children consuming less of each had the lowest BMC (2740.2 g). Conclusions These prospective data provide evidence for a beneficial effect of childhood dairy consumption on adolescent bone health.
Elastic stress singularity at conical inclusions

Abstract The nature of singularities at the vertex of a conical inclusion bonded into a conical notch is found for the problem of axially symmetric stress distribution. The solution is obtained from an eigenvalue formulation based upon expansions in terms of spherical harmonics. For certain ranges of elastic constants the singularities are found to be complex valued.
N-CoR Mediates DNA Methylation-Dependent Repression through a Methyl CpG Binding Protein Kaiso.

The identification and characterization of molecular mechanisms utilized by cells to mediate transcriptional repression at methylated loci are fundamental to understanding the biological consequences of DNA methylation. Here we demonstrate that Kaiso, a methyl CpG binding protein belonging to the BTB/POZ family of transcription factors, is a component of the human N-CoR complex. In vitro, the Kaiso/N-CoR complex binds specific CpG-rich sequences in a methylation-dependent manner. In vivo, Kaiso targets the N-CoR complex to the MTA2 gene promoter in a methylation-dependent manner. Importantly, we demonstrate that Kaiso is required for transcriptional repression of the methylated MTA2 locus. Furthermore, this repression also requires a functional N-CoR deacetylase complex, which brings about histone hypoacetylation and methylation of H3 lysine 9 to the MTA2 locus. Thus, our data demonstrate a critical role for a methyl CpG binding protein in mediating DNA methylation-dependent repression and reveal the mechanism by which it represses transcription.
Renal blood flow distribution in septic hyperdynamic pigs

Abstract Acute hyperdynamic sepsis in man is associated with increased renal blood flow (RBF) and polyuria, presumably due to high RBF to the medulla causing washout of interstitial osmoles. This presumption was studied in 14 hyperdynamic piglets with hindlimb sepsis and compared to 11 control piglets. RBF distribution was measured by 51Cr-labeled microspheres previously injected into the left ventricle and compared to cardiac output measured by rate of isotope disappearance. Both septic and control piglets had comparable vital signs at the time of the study. Cardiac output and RBF were significantly increased in septic piglets; cortical flow was also significantly increased whereas medullary flow was only slightly increased. These data demonstrate that polyuria in hyperdynamic septic piglets is not due to interstitial medullary washout secondary to increased medullary flow. Polyuria probably reflects tubular dysfunction unrelated to renal hemodynamic changes.
Physical decomposition of a photonic crystal membrane heterostructure cavity laser

We demonstrate the effect of the surrounding photonic crystal cladding in a photonic crystal membrane heterostructure cavity. The lasing wavelength is shifted from the Gamma-point to the K-point by the photonic crystal heterostructure.
A new approach to solving second kind integral equations

Many problems in applied electromagnetics can be formulated in terms of solving a boundary integral equation of the second kind. Much success has been achieved in solving these type equations through the Method of Moments (MOM) or related approaches by which the integral equation is reduced to solving a matrix equation. However, for problems involving long range interactions such as rough surface scattering, propagation over irregular terrain, or even large complicated structures, the MOM leads to intractable matrices. These problems have been overcome for two dimensional geometries through methods such as Forward-Backward or the Method of Ordered Multiple Interactions but the extension to three dimensions is still prohibitive. For this reason, there remains a need for a new approach to solving integral equations of the second kind.
Expression of the human immunodeficiency virus gag gene products by a replication-incompetent herpes simplex virus vector

A recombinant replication-incompetent herpes simplex virus vector (vd120/Gag) that expressed the human immunodeficiency virus 1 gag gene and part of the pol gene that encodes the HIV-1 protease was constructed. Examination of cells infected with vd120/Gag revealed the presence of the Gag polyprotein Pr55gag by 12 h post-infection, as well as abundant levels of the proteolytically processed 24-kDa capsid protein. Analysis of vector-infected cells and culture supernatant indicated that the majority of the 24-kDa protein remained cell-associated. Although the HIV-1 Gag polyprotein was produced in vd120/Gag-infected cells, there was no evidence of HIV virus-like particle production upon examination of vector-infected cells by transmission electron microscopy.
Cooling of integrated circuits using droplet-based microfluidics

Decreasing feature sizes and increasing package densities are making thermal issues extremely important in IC design. Uneven thermal maps and hot spots in ICs cause physical stress and performance degradation. Many MEMS and microfluidics-based solutions were proposed in the past. We present a cooling method based on high-speed electrowetting manipulation of discrete sub-microliter droplets under voltage control with volume flow rates in excess of 10 mL/min. We also propose a flow-rate feedback control where the hot areas get increased supply of droplets without the need for external sensors and electrothermocapillary control where hot areas attract droplets due to thermocapillarity and are returned to their reservoirs by electrowetting resulting in a self-contained and a self-regulated system.
Recursive maximum likelihood estimation of complex autoregressive processes

The recursive maximum likelihood estimation (RMLE) algorithm conceived by Kay (see ibid., vol.ASSP-31, p.56, 1983) is extended to complex data sets. The complex version requires the same level of computation as that for real data. The original development was restricted to the case of realm data. The purpose is to extend RMLE to the more universal realm of complex data. The derivation is discussed. It is argued, without direct proof, that the algorithm is stable in the sense that the magnitude of the reflection coefficient at each step is less than unity. >
Bioresorbable Stents The Next Revolution

Usually elegant and sometimes ingenious, most innovations in interventional cardiology represent incremental advances. Quantum leaps are rare. A major transformation in practice occurred when bare metal stents (BMS) replaced balloon angioplasty, because stenting could scaffold intimal tears, reduce elastic recoil, and prevent negative remodeling.1 Another breakthrough occurred when antiproliferative drugs eluted from stents nearly eliminated the neointimal growth response to stent implantation.2 A negative consequence of drug-eluting stents has been a low incidence of late stent thrombosis3 caused by incomplete arterial healing and exposed metal struts left in contact with circulating blood.4 Because the need for vessel-wall support after coronary intervention may be temporary, bioresorbable coronary stents might represent a solution to prevent late stent thrombosis. Bioresorbable drug-eluting stents could provide temporary scaffolding when it is needed after coronary intervention, reduce the risk of restenosis, and completely disappear without leaving thrombogenic residua. If the devices are user-friendly and regulatory requirements are satisfied, bioresorbable stents could revolutionize the practice of interventional cardiology. Article see p 2301 Bioresorbable stents were first implanted in animals in 1980. The first bioresorbable stent implanted in man was the Igaki-Tamai stent, a non-drug-eluting stent made of poly-L-lactide with a strut thickness of 170 μm that required a combination thermal self-expansion and balloon expansion for deployment. In the initial study of 15 patients with 19 lesions, there were no cases of stent thrombosis.5 In the second cohort of 50 patients, however, there were 3 cases of stent thrombosis, with 1 subacute event occurring at 5 days, 1 late event occurring after 30 days, and 1 very late event occurring after 1 year.6 Despite the pioneering efforts, concerns arose about the use of heat to expand the stent and possible thermal injury to the arterial wall.6 The bioresorbable vascular scaffold (BVS) …
Lateral Continuity of the Blarney Creek Thrust, Doonerak Window, Central Brooks Range, Alaska: ABSTRACT

The contact between Carboniferous and lower Paleozoic rocks, exposed along the northern margin of the Doonerak window in the central Brooks Range, is a major thrust fault called the Blarney Creek thrust (BCT). The BCT has been traced over a distance of 25 km, from Falsoola Mountain to Wien Mountain. The tectonic nature of this contact is demonstrated by: (1) omission of stratigraphic units above and below the BCT; (2) large angular discordance in orientation of first-generation cleavage at the BCT; (3) numerous thrust imbricates developed in the upper-plate Carboniferous section that sole into the BCT; and (4) truncation of an upper-plate graben structure at the BCT. Lack of evidence for pre-Carboniferous deformation in the lower plate casts doubt on the interpretation of the contact as an angular unconformity. However, the localized presence below the BCT of Mississippian Kekiktuk Conglomerate and Kayak Shale, in apparent depositional contact with lower Paleozoic rocks, suggests that the BCT follows an originally disconformable contact between the Carboniferous and lower Paleozoic rocks. The juxtaposition of younger over older rocks at the BCT is explained by calling upon the BCT to act as the upper detachment surface of a duplex structure. Duplex development involves initial imbrication of the Carboniferous section using the BCT as a basal decollement, followed by formation of deeper thrusts in the lower Paleozoic section, which ramp up and merge into the BCT. End_of_Article - Last_Page 678------------
Metallicity calibration of a DDO CN index and other low-resolution indices for G and K stars

Metallicity calibrations of low-resolution pa- rameters are potentially useful for (at least) two problems: the properties of moving groups, and the supermetallicity problem in K giants. In this paper, metallicity calibra- tions are derived for six sets of parameters. One of these parameters is the DDO CN index CN. This parameter and three others are calibrated for use with evolved G and K stars. Two additional sets of low-resolution param- eters are calibrated for use with G and K dwarfs. The calibrations are derived by comparing the input data with two catalogs of homogenized high-dispersion results from diverse authors (see Taylor 1995, 1999a). Using rms errors that are given in the catalogs, intrinsic rms errors are de- rived for metallicities deduced from the calibrations. The errors turn out to be comparable to those that apply for averaged high-dispersion results.
The Role of Statistics in Characterizing Nuclear Waste Package Behavior

The characterization of nuclear waste package behavior is primarily based on the outcome of laboratory tests, where components of a proposed waste package are either individually or simultaneously subjected to simulated repository conditions. At each step of a testing method, both controllable and uncontrollable factors contribute to the overall uncertainty in the final outcome of the test. If not dealt with correctly, these sources of uncertainty could obscure or distort important information that might otherwise be gleaned form the test data. This could result in misleading or erroneous conclusions about the behavior characteristic being studied. It could also preclude estimation of the individual contributions of the major sources of uncertainty to the overall uncertainty. Statistically designed experiments and sampling plans, followed by correctly applied statistical analysis and estimation methods will yield the most information possible for the time and resources spent on experimentation, and they can eliminate the above concerns. Conclusions reached on the basis of such information will be sound and defensible. This presentation is intended to emphasize the importance of correctly applied, theoretically sound statistical methodology in characterizing nuclear waste package behavior.
Opsonophagocytosis-Inhibiting Mac Protein of Group A Streptococcus: Identification and Characteristics of Two Genetic Complexes

Recently, it was reported that a streptococcal Mac protein (designated Mac5005) made by serotype M1 group A Streptococcus (GAS) is a homologue of human CD11b that inhibits opsonophagocytosis and killing of GAS by human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) (B. Lei, F. R. DeLeo, N. P. Hoe, M. R. Graham, S. M. Mackie, R. L. Cole, M. Liu, H. R. Hill, D. E. Low, M. J. Federle, J. R. Scott, and J. M. Musser, Nat. Med. 7:1298-1305, 2001). To study mac variation and expression of the Mac protein, the gene in 67 GAS strains representing 36 distinct M protein serotypes was sequenced. Two distinct genetic complexes were identified, and they were designated complex I and complex II. Mac variants in each of the two complexes were closely related, but complex I and complex II variants differed on average at 50.66 ± 5.8 amino acid residues, most of which were located in the middle one-third of the protein. Complex I Mac variants have greater homology with CD11b than complex II variants. GAS strains belonging to serotypes M1 and M3, the most abundant M protein serotypes responsible for human infections in many case series, have complex I Mac variants. The mac gene was cloned from representative strains assigned to complexes I and II, and the Mac proteins were purified to apparent homogeneity. Both Mac variants had immunoglobulin G (IgG)-endopeptidase activity. In contrast to Mac5005 (complex I), Mac8345 (complex II) underwent autooxidation of its cysteine residues, resulting in the loss of IgG-endopeptidase activity. A Mac5005 Cys94Ala site-specific mutant protein was unable to cleave IgG but retained the ability to inhibit IgG-mediated phagocytosis by human PMNs. Thus, the IgG-endopeptidase activity was not essential for the key biological function of Mac5005. Although Mac5005 and Mac8345 each have an Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) motif, the proteins differed in their interactions with human integrins αvβ3 and αIIbβ3. Binding of Mac5005 to integrins αvβ3 and αIIbβ3 was mediated primarily by the RGD motif in Mac5005, whereas binding of Mac8345 involved the RGD motif and a region in the middle one-third of the molecule whose sequence is different in Mac8345 and Mac5005. Taken together, the data add to the emerging theme in GAS pathogenesis that allelic variation in virulence genes contributes to fundamental differences in host-pathogen interactions among strains.
Coronary artery diameter and coronary risk factors: A study with ultrafast computed tomography

Coronary artery dilation has been described as an early effect of atherosclerosis. No noninvasive technique has been available to measure coronary size. In this study coronary diameters were measured in 100 asymptomatic subjects (89 men and 11 women, mean age 40 +/- 6 years) by means of ultrafast computed tomography (UFCT), with 3 mm thick ECG gated scans. Subjects without evidence of coronary calcium were studied. The diameter of the left main (LD) and right (RD) coronary arteries were measured. Total coronary diameter, TD = LD + RD, was determined, and univariate analysis was performed with respect to total, high-density lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, mean blood pressure, age, body surface area, and triglycerides. Mean LD was 4.23 +/- 0.85 mm, and mean RD was 3.06 +/- 1.08 mm. TD increased with body surface area (p < 0.001). No other variable showed any significant effect on TD in this group without evidence of atherosclerosis. UFCT can be used to noninvasively measure coronary artery diameters and may be a useful technique to detect early changes of atherosclerosis in individual patients and in population studies.
Surface plasmon assisted stimulated emission on smooth and corrugated silver surfaces

We study surface-plasmon-assisted stimulated emission of Rhodmine 6G and Rhodamine B laser dyes and find a striking difference of the stimulated emission behavior on smooth and corrugated silver surfaces.
Experimental Immunization with a Monoclonal Anti-Idiotope Antibody that Mimics the Neisseria gonorrhoeae Lipooligosaccharide Epitope 2C7

An anti-idiotope monoclonal antibody (MAb), called CA1 (Ab2), was produced in mice against MAb 2C7, which recognizes a widely in vivo-expressed gonococcal lipooligosaccharide (LOS) epitope. Mice immunized with MAb CA1 initially had a 2.5-fold increase in IgG (12-fold after a booster) but no increase in IgM anti-LOS (Ab1') antibody. Control mice immunized with LOS had a 4.5-fold rise in IgG and 4-fold rise in IgM anti-LOS antibody. In rabbits, MAb CA1 elicited a 9-fold rise in IgG and a 3.3-fold rise in IgM anti-LOS (Ab1') antibody. Ab1' antibody bactericidal activity was 1-2 logs greater than that produced by immunization with LOS. Ab1' mediated complete human polymorphonuclear leukocyte phagocytosis of 2C7 epitope-positive (but not 2C7 epitope-negative) gonococci. MAb CA1 acts as a molecular surrogate (Ab2beta) for the nominal LOS antigen and may form the basis for vaccine candidates for human immunization against Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
Theory, methods and tools for determining environmental flows for riparian vegetation: riparian vegetation‐flow response guilds

SUMMARY 1. Riparian vegetation composition, structure and abundance are governed to a large degree by river flow regime and flow-mediated fluvial processes. Streamflow regime exerts selective pressures on riparian vegetation, resulting in adaptations (trait syndromes) to specific flow attributes. Widespread modification of flow regimes by humans has resulted in extensive alteration of riparian vegetation communities. Some of the negative effects of altered flow regimes on vegetation may be reversed by restoring components of the natural flow regime. 2. Models have been developed that quantitatively relate components of the flow regime to attributes of riparian vegetation at the individual, population and community levels. Predictive models range from simple statistical relationships, to more complex stochastic matrix population models and dynamic simulation models. Of the dozens of predictive models reviewed here, most treat one or a few species, have many simplifying assumptions such as stable channel form, and do not specify the time-scale of response. In many cases, these models are very effective in developing alternative streamflow management plans for specific river reaches or segments but are not directly transferable to other rivers or other regions. 3. A primary goal in riparian ecology is to develop general frameworks for prediction of vegetation response to changing environmental conditions. The development of riparian vegetation-flow response guilds offers a framework for transferring information from rivers where flow standards have been developed to maintain desirable vegetation attributes, to rivers with little or no existing information. 4. We propose to organise riparian plants into non-phylogenetic groupings of species with shared traits that are related to components of hydrologic regime: life history, reproductive strategy, morphology, adaptations to fluvial disturbance and adaptations to water availability. Plants from any river or region may be grouped into these guilds and related to hydrologic attributes of a specific class of river using probabilistic response curves. 5. Probabilistic models based on riparian response guilds enable prediction of the likelihood of change in each of the response guilds given projected changes in flow, and
Resistance to telomerase inhibition by human squamous cell carcinoma cell lines

Telomeres are nucleoprotein structures at the ends of chromosomes that are composed of a repetitive G rich sequence and telomeric binding proteins. Telomeres prevent the degradation of chromosomal ends and protect against inappropriate recombination. Telomere attrition involves a tumor suppressor pathway that limits the replication of premalignant cells. The loss of telomeric DNA with each round of replication leads to growth arrest accompanied by senescence or apoptosis. Many tumor cells activate the telomerase gene to bypass senescence. Telomerase is a multisubunit ribonucleoprotein that uses an RNA template to catalyze the addition of telomeric DNA to chromosomal ends. Overexpression of the TERT subunit leads to telomere lengthening and extension of the replicative lifespan. Dominant-negative telomerase has been shown to inhibit telomerase activity in many tumor cell lines, and this is associated with telomere shortening and apoptosis. Additionally, pharmacological telomerase inhibitors have been developed which lead to progressive telomere shortening and programmed cell death. In this study, we report a series of human squamous cell carcinoma cell lines that have high telomerase activity and short telomeres. Dominant-negative telomerase expression and pharmacological telomerase inhibition failed to completely inhibit enzymatic activity which was accompanied by the lack of telomere shortening. These cells continued to proliferate and demonstrated fewer responsive genes when treated with a pharmacological telomerase inhibitor. We concluded that some human squamous cell carcinoma cell lines are resistant to telomerase inhibition.
Improving Error Tolerance for Multithreaded Register Files

Chip multithreaded computing is exposed to the dual challenges of increasing system complexity and error sensitivity. It is critical to develop effective solutions that achieve better error tolerance without inducing performance degradation. In this paper, we propose a new error-tolerant memory design based on a unique computing phenomenon referred to as the dynamic multithreading redundancy (DMR). The proposed technique exploits the interplay between the concurrent threads for runtime error control. We also present two DMR enhancements, immediate write-back and self-recovery, to address the error accumulation effect. A multithreaded register file was implemented to demonstrate the proposed DMR technique. Simulation results on the SPEC CPU2000 benchmarks demonstrate significant overhead reduction in performance and energy efficiency related to error recovery. In addition, the proposed technique features good scalability with respect to the instruction-level and thread-level parallelism for next-generation processor design, where the soft error problem is expected to get worse due to technology scaling and architecture-affecting trends.
Organizational learning systems

A description is given of the requirements for a computer-based system to support organizational learning. Cognitive mapping is suggested as the means for representing action-response beliefs. A distributed system supporting both individual maps and a collective map is described. >
Analysis of Single Events Effects on Monolithic PLL Frequency Synthesizers

Frequency synthesizers are fundamental building blocks in radio frequency, communications, and analog signal processing for generating high accuracy oscillatory signals. In general, the frequency synthesizer is the most sensitive block in the system since many of the signal processing elements such as clock, filters, and up/down converters depend on the synthesizer generating a clean sinusoidal signal at the given frequency. For radiation environments, the response and the sensitivity of the phase-lock loop (PLL) and the synthesizer block is very critical. This paper examines the effect of single events (SEE) radiation on the PLL locking and steady state response. The PLL circuits operating at 2.4 GHZ were designed and fabricated using a 0.13mum CMOS process This paper presents the experimental and simulations results on the SEE radiation effects on the PLL
Thin Films of Semiconducting SnSi Alloys Grown by Pulsed Laser Deposition

Semiconducting SnxSi1-x (0≤x≤0.6) thin-film alloys have been grown by pulsed laser deposition (PLD). These new materials are amorphous to X-rays and display small positive optical band gaps, suggesting potential applications in solar cells. The tin silicide films were grown by depositing very thin (1-30 A) alternating atomic layers from individual Sn and Si targets utilizing an automated multi-target holder coupled to a conventional PLD system. The value of x was selected by controlling the thickness of the atomic layers. The films were characterized by X-ray diffraction, optical absorption, Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy, temperature-dependent resistivity, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Tin segregation is prevented by keeping the Sn layer thickness below a critical value. Compositions beyond x > 0.6 led to semimetallic SnxSi1-x films with tin crystallites.
Self-Interest, Symbolic Values, and the Financial Equalization of the Public Schools

Using a natural experiment in which some school districts stood to lose dollars due to court-ordered financial equalization and others stood to gain dollars, I test theories of self-interest and symbolic politics as predictors of dependent variables with racial overtones. The data show a substantial self-interest effect. However, even with the presence of a self-interest effect, symbolic values are still important, most notably those associated with race. The self-interest calculation is then investigated. Relevant variables include levels of information, beliefs, and individual predispositions. The effect of these variables on self-interest demonstrates that the assessment of self-interest is not a simple mechanistic process, but contingent upon a variety of affective variables. Finally, I note that self-interest affects the aggregate level of support for the dependent variable within district but has little effect on its relationship with symbolic values.
Algebraic connectivity of brain networks shows patterns of segregation leading to reduced network robustness in Alzheimer's disease.

Measures of network topology and connectivity aid the understanding of network breakdown as the brain degenerates in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). We analyzed 3-Tesla diffusion-weighted images from 202 patients scanned by the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative—50 healthy controls, 72 with early- and 38 with late-stage mild cognitive impairment (eMCI/lMCI) and 42 with AD. Using whole-brain tractography, we reconstructed structural connectivity networks representing connections between pairs of cortical regions. We examined, for the first time in this context, the network’s Laplacian matrix and its Fiedler value, describing the network’s algebraic connectivity, and the Fiedler vector, used to partition a graph. We assessed algebraic connectivity and four additional supporting metrics, revealing a decrease in network robustness and increasing disarray among nodes as dementia progressed. Network components became more disconnected and segregated, and their modularity increased. These measures are sensitive to diagnostic group differences, and may help understand the complex changes in AD.
Thermocrinis jamiesonii sp. nov., a thiosulfate-oxidizing, autotropic thermophile isolated from a geothermal spring.

An obligately thermophilic, chemolithotrophic, microaerophilic bacterium, designated strain GBS1T, was isolated from the water column of Great Boiling Spring, Nevada, USA. Thiosulfate was required for growth. Although capable of autotrophy, growth of GBS1T was enhanced in the presence of acetate, peptone or Casamino acids. Growth occurred at 70-85 °C with an optimum at 80 °C, at pH 6.50-7.75 with an optimum at pH 7.25, with 0.5-8 % oxygen with an optimum at 1-2 % and with ≤ 200 mM NaCl. The doubling time under optimal growth conditions was 1.3 h, with a final mean cell density of 6.2 ± 0.5 × 107 cells ml- 1. Non-motile, rod-shaped cells 1.4-2.4 × 0.4-0.6 μm in size occurred singly or in pairs. The major cellular fatty acids (>5 % of the total) were C20 : 1ω9c, C18 : 0, C16 : 0 and C20 : 0. Phylogenetic analysis of the GBS1T 16S rRNA gene sequence indicated an affiliation with Thermocrinis ruber and other species of the genus Thermocrinis, but determination of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity ( ≤ 97.10 %) and in silico estimated DNA-DNA hybridization values ( ≤ 18.4 %) with the type strains of recognized Thermocrinis species indicate that the novel strain is distinct from described species. Based on phenotypic, genotypic and phylogenetic characteristics, a novel species, Thermocrinis jamiesonii sp. nov., is proposed, with GBS1T ( = JCM 19133T = DSM 27162T) as the type strain.
Iatrogenic pseudocyst and bowel obstruction from a ventriculo-peritoneal shunt

Ventriculoperitoneal shunts are commonly placed to treat hydrocephalus in infants and children. Expected complications can include infection, malfunction, and obstruction. Abdominal complications are rare, especially bowel obstruction. A 20-year-old nonverbal male with profound mental retardation from shaken baby syndrome as an infant presented with abdominal distension and lethargy. Past medical history was significant for a ventriculoperitoneal shunt that had been placed more than 15 yr prior for hydrocephalus, a feeding gastrostomy tube,, and trans-abdominal spinal surgery for scoliosis. The patient had been vomiting his tube feeds for two days. On physical examaination, the patient was diaphoretic, hypotensive, and tachycardic with a heart rate of 143. The abdomen was quite distended with high-pitched, tinkling bowel sounds. He was afebrile, but had a white blood cell count of 7.1 with a differential showing 50% bands and 41% neutrophils. Computed tomography scan showed a large cyst in the right upper quadrant with the ventriculoperitoneal shuntwithin the cyst. The cyst had an enhancing rim and multiple dilated loops of small bowel could be seen (Fig. 1). Exploratory laparotomy revealed that the ascending colon was tightly wrapped around the lateral and superior walls of the cyst and compressed against the abdominal side wall causing a bowel obstruction. The colon and several loops of small intestine were tenaciously adherent to
Stress Relaxation in Rubber II. Simultaneous Oxygen Absorption

Abstract In any serious study of antioxidant action, it is essential that the oxygen absorption rate of a protected rubber be determined and the changes in the network system caused by the oxygen be assessed. This information is normally obtained from separate oxygen absorption and aging studies. A method is described in this article which enables simultaneous measurements of oxygen absorption and stress relaxation to be made on a given rubber sample. A number of antioxidants have been compounded with natural rubber and, from the results, an estimate is made of the molecules of oxygen absorbed per rubber chain cut. This is found to vary with the antioxidant, although some difficulties of interpretation are pointed out. Variations of deactivating effect among the antioxidants shows clearly that any attempt to understand oxidative degradation in terms of oxygen absorption or decay in physical properties alone is not possible. The method provides a new technique that is of value in any basic study of antioxi...
TWO CASES OF SCHWANNOMA OF THE DUODENUM

Case 1. A61-year-old woman who had been followed up with cryptgenic back pain at the department of internal medicine in our hospital for about 3 years, was pointed out having a retroperitoneal tumor by computed tomography. She was referred to the department and was operated on with a diagnosis of retoroperitoneal tumor or submucosal tumor of the duodenum. During surgery, a submucosal tumor was found in the third portion of the duodenum. A partial resection of the duodenum. Case 2. An asymptomatic 70-year-old woman was detected to have a mass in the upper abdomen at a routine medical check up. She was referred to the department and under a diagnosis similar to Case 1, an operation was performed in the same manner. The resected specimens in both cases were covered with a fibrous capsule, and the insides of tumors were white in color, homogeneous, and elastic hard. Microscopically, the tumors were composed of bundles of spindle cells with their nuclei arranged in palsade, and mitosis was scarcely observed. In an immunohistochemical study, the tumors were positive for S-100 protein and NSE but negative for SMA and desmin. These cases were diagnosed as benign schwannoma. We report the two cases of schwannoma of the duodenum which is rare, together with some bibliographical comments.
Preference of Green Peach Aphids for Virus-Infected Sugar beet Leaves

In detached-leaf experiments, apterous Myzus persicae (Sulzer) preferred yellows-infected leaves to symptom less, mosaic-infected, or curly-top-infected leaves. However, apterous aphids appeared to move at random to healthy, mosaic-infected, or yellows-infected whole plants. Twice as many alate aphids were found on yellows-infected whole plants 24 hours after release as on healthy or mosaic-infected plants, but no marked differences were found in numbers of alate aphids on healthy, mosaic-infected, and yellows-infected whole plants 48–96 hours after release. In all tests aphids appeared to avoid curly top-infected leaves or plants.
Ovicidal activity of insecticides on the spotted tentiform leafminer (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae)

Several insecticides were tested for ovicidal activity on spotted tentiform leafminer (STLM), Phyllonorycter blancardella (F.). In one laboratory experiment, fenvalerate and methomyl caused 88 and 72% egg mortality, respectively, whereas endosulfan was less effective (29.6% egg mortality). The control (water) had the lowest egg mortality (8%). In a second laboratory experiment, fenvalerate, permethrin, and methomyl caused 92, 92, and 77% egg mortality, respectively, whereas the control showed low egg mortality (13%). In field applications, fenvalerate and diflubenzuron were effective ovicides (100 and 70.7% egg mortality, respectively). Single-tree applications of fenvalerate and diflubenzuron showed both treatments to be ovicidal at low rates. Insecticides targeted at the egg stage and applied before hatch add a new dimension to STLM management.
Survival and Development of Bradysia impatiens (Diptera: Sciaridae) on Fungal and Non-fungal Food Sources

Larvae of Bradysia impatiens (Johannsen) were reared on fungal diets of Alternaria tenuis and brewer's yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) , and on non-fungal diets of lima bean agar, potato dextrose agar, and agar-agar. The mean survival on the fungal diets of A. tenuis and brewer's yeast was 76–80% higher than on lima bean agar. There was no larval survival or development on the potato dextrose agar or the agar-agar diets. The mean developmental time on the lima bean agar (69.3 days) was 3 times longer than on the fungal diets. The results suggest that fungi provide an essential nutrient source for B. impatiens larvae and that a relatively low abundance of fungi in the immediate environment of a plant could predispose it to attack by larvae.
Dynamische Nierenscintigraphie mit 99m-Technetium-Pertechnetat und I. V. Pyelogramm mit Frühaufnahmen: ein Vergleich beider Methoden als Suchtest bei arterieller Hypertonie

Um aus der grosen Population hypertensiver Patienten die wenigen Prozent mit operativ heilbaren sekundaren Hypertonieformen herauszufinden, wird bislang uberwiegend das I.V.-Pyelogramm mit Fruhaufnahmen (I.V.P.) als Suchtest angewandt. Dessen logistische und diagnostische Beschrankungen sind bekannt. Maxwell et al. [4] berichteten uber 7% und Bookstein et al. in der Cooperative Study uber 17% falsch negative I.V.P. bei nachgewiesener renovoscularer Hypertonie.
Steam methane reforming in a PdAu membrane reactor: Long-term assessment

Abstract In this work, electroless deposition was used to fabricate a 5.0 μm thick Pd 28Au (wt. %) membrane (16.10 cm 2 ) supported on a YSZ/PSS substrate. After annealing in hydrogen, steam methane reforming (SMR) was conducted continuously for 530 h, with permeate purity remaining above 99.2% for the duration. The reactor used a 0.5 wt. % Ru/Al 2 O 2 catalyst and ran at 2.8 MPa and a steam-to-carbon ratio of 3, with temperature varied between 480 °C and 580 °C. Methane conversion was as high as 94% depending on temperature and space velocity. This represents a significant improvement over the thermodynamic equilibrium shift of 35% under similar conditions. Additionally, the hydrogen flux and overall methane conversion showed stable performance over time. The membrane thickness and composition were verified using SEM/EDS, XRD, XRF and ICP-AES. Furthermore, cross sectional EDS and XRD data indicated uniform gold composition throughout the film, suggesting homogeneous alloy formation.
Lymphohematopoiesis: role of growth factors in leukemogenesis and therapy.

Mature lymphohematopoietic cells proliferate and differentiate from normal bone marrow precursor cells under the influence of specific growth factors; inadequate and aberrant differentiation characterizes leukemic populations. A hierarchical model for the normal precursor cell compartment and the nature and actions of the growth factors (CSFs, interleukins) are reviewed in this article. Based on this information, the potential role of growth factors in leukemogenesis is outlined, and some methods of leukemia therapy made possible by the hematopoietic growth factors are described.
Methodological Issues Relating to Intenet-Based Surveys

Internet surveys are widely used in marketing research, and their use continues to grow, partly because they provide a number of technological features that are designed to reduce common sources of respondent error that can impact data quality. This session deals with selected methodological issues concerning Internet surveys.
Cervicogenic headaches ☆: a critical review

Abstract Background context: The notion that headaches may originate from disorders of the cervical spine and can be relieved by treatments directed at the neck is gaining recognition among headache clinicians but is often neglected in the spine literature. Purpose: To review and summarize the literature on cervicogenic headaches in the following areas: historical perspective, diagnostic criteria, epidemiology, pathogenesis, differential diagnosis, and treatment. Study design/setting: A systematic literature review of cervicogenic headache was performed. Methods: Three computerized medical databases (Medline, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature [CINAHL], Mantis) were searched for the terms “cervicogenic” and “headache.” After cross-referencing, we retrieved 164 unique citations; 48 citations were added from other sources, for a total of 212 citations, although all were not used. Results: Hilton described the concept of headaches originating from the cervical spine in 1860. In 1983 Sjaastad introduced the term “cervicogenic headache” (CGH). Diagnostic criteria have been established by several expert groups, with agreement that these headaches start in the neck or occipital region and are associated with tenderness of cervical paraspinal tissues. Prevalence estimates range from 0.4% to 2.5% of the general population to 15% to 20% of patients with chronic headaches. CGH affects patients with a mean age of 42.9 years, has a 4:1 female disposition, and tends to be chronic. Almost any pathology affecting the cervical spine has been implicated in the genesis of CGH as a result of convergence of sensory input from the cervical structures within the spinal nucleus of the trigeminal nerve. The main differential diagnoses are tension type headache and migraine headache, with considerable overlap in symptoms and findings between these conditions. No specific pathology has been noted on imaging or diagnostic studies which correlates with CGH. CGH seems unresponsive to common headache medication. Small, noncontrolled case series have reported moderate success with surgery and injections. A few randomized controlled trials and a number of case series support the use of cervical manipulation, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, and botulinum toxin injection. Conclusions: There remains considerable controversy and confusion on all matters pertaining to the topic of CGH. However, the amount of interest in the topic is growing, and it is anticipated that further research will help to clarify the theory, diagnosis, and treatment options for patients with CGH. Until then, it is essential that clinicians maintain an open, cautious, and critical approach to the literature on cervicogenic headaches.
A 3-D analytical model of a Halbach axial magnetic coupling

A 3-D analytical model is presented for a Halbach axial magnetic coupling. The field and torque are determined by first solving a 2-D field problem at the radial location in which the radial flux density is assumed zero. The solution to the 2-D problem is then incorporated into a 3-D magnetic charge sheet model so as to enable the complete 3-D fields and torque to be accurately computed. The presented model is compared with a 3-D finite element analysis model. The new 3-D field and torque analysis approach can be extended to model other 3-D axial magnetic devices.
Tourism stakeholders’ perceptions of service gaps in Arctic destinations: Lessons from Norway's Finnmark region

Abstract This research undertakes a case study on current challenges to the provision of tourism services at Arctic destinations. Qualitative method of inquiry is selected to glean the issues and problems proposed in a northernmost Arctic region of Norwegian continent. Three types of tourism stakeholders participate in the study: tourists, tourism professionals, and local residents. The data are collected on six tourism destinations and cruises sailing through the study regions. In total, 68 in-depth personal interviews and three focus group surveys are conducted. Study findings are able to shed some light on shortcomings in service delivery that may be best illuminated by four viewpoints: inadequate infrastructure, lack of government intervention, insufficient travel information at destinations, and an urgent need for sustainable development. The conclusion highlights a managerial implication which relates to the establishment of a collaborative mechanism propelled by government interventions incorporating the interests of all stakeholders in considering the triple bottom-line for sustainable living, that of economy, environment, and human capital. In addition, other valuable implications may entail streamlining e-channels for travel information delivery, monitoring the effects of climate change and instigating educational information at destinations. Management implications The sensitive environment in the Artic and the increasing tourism lead to significant challenges for management. In order to enhance the conditions the paper proposes: • To increase tourist’s flexibility and enhance the local networking by improved local network, • To develop a sustainable tourism policy under consideration of climate change and a changing accessibility, • To implement concepts of growth management while strengthening the local livelihood and economy on a long run.
Process Improvement in Thoracic Donor Organ Procurement: Implementation of a Donor Assessment Checklist

Background Donor organs are often procured by junior staff in stressful, unfamiliar environments where a single adverse event can be catastrophic. A formalized checklist focused on preprocedural processes related to thoracic donor organ procurement could improve detection and prevention of near miss events. Methods A checklist was developed centered on patient identifiers, organ compatibility and quality, and team readiness. It went through five cycles of feedback and revision using a panel of expert procurement surgeons. Educational in-service sessions were held on the use of the checklist as well as best organ assessment practices. Near miss events before the survey were tallied by retrospective review of 20 procurements, and near misses after checklist implementation were prospectively recorded. We implemented the checklist for 40 donor lung and heart procurements: 20 from Cleveland Clinic and 20 from the University of Minnesota. A final survey assessment was used to determine ease of use. Results Nine near miss events were reported in 20 procurements before use of the checklist. Thirty-one near miss events of 40 organ procurements were identified and potentially prevented by the checklist. Eighty-seven percent of fellows found the checklist to be unobtrusive to work flow, and 100% believed its use should be mandatory. Mortality was the same before and after implementation of the checklist despite increased patient volumes. Conclusions Implementation of a simple checklist for use during thoracic organ procurement uncovered a substantial number of near miss events. A preprocedural checklist for all thoracic organ transplants in the United States and abroad is feasible and would likely reduce adverse events.
Biological conversion of the aqueous wastes from hydrothermal liquefaction of algae and pine wood by Rhodococci

In this study, R. opacus PD630, R. jostii RHA1, R. jostii RHA1 VanA-, and their co-culture were employed to convert hydrothermal liquefaction aqueous waste (HTLAW) into lipids. After 11days, the COD reduction of algal-HTLAW reached 93.4% and 92.7% by R. jostii RHA1 and its mutant VanA-, respectively. Woody-HTLAW promoted lipid accumulation of 0.43glipid/gcell dry weight in R. opacus PD630 cells. Additionally, the total number of chemicals in HTLAW decreased by over 1/3 after 7days of coculture, and 0.10g/L and 0.46g/L lipids were incrementally accumulated in the cellular mass during the fermentation of wood- and algal-HTLAW, respectively. The GC-MS data supported that different metabolism pathways were followed when these Rhodococci strains degraded algae- and woody-HTLAW. These results indicated promising potential of bioconversion of under-utilized carbon and toxic compounds in HTLAW into useful products by selected Rhodococci.