cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Critical Issues Related to Nontarget Effects in Classical Biological Control of Insects

Nontarget effects of introduced natural enemies are now part of the agenda of classical biological control. This development has been documented in a number of books and reviews, including (1990), (1991), Ehler (1990a, 1991), (1992), (1995), and Simberloff and Stiling (1996a, 1996b). Much of the debate centers around host specificity of introduced agents and the possibility of host shifts to nontarget species (McEvoy 1996, Secord and Kareiva 1996). The response from the biological-control community to this latest challenge has varied from outright hostility to calls for more reasoned dialog between conservation biologists and practitioners of classical biological control. The ongoing debate also raises critical issues relative to the future of classical biological control, and this will be the major theme of this chapter. The emphasis will be on predators and parasites of insect pests. I will restrict my comments to three issues: choice of target pest, introduction strategy, and evaluation of impact on nontarget species.
Yttrium-90 Radioembolotherapy for Hepatocellular Cancer

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for between 85 and 90% of primary liver cancers. Over a million cases of hepatocellular cancer occur annually making it the fifth most common cancer worldwide and the third most common cause of cancer mortality. In the United States, the incidence of HCC has steadily increased over the past two decades, with an estimated 21,370 new cases having occurred in 2008 [1]. HCC-related mortality has increased in parallel with 18,410 estimated deaths during the same time period [1]. In addition, the incidence of HCC in patients with both known risks such as hepatitis C and unknown risk factors is increasing [2].
A 3-D Finite Element Formulation for Ultrasonic NDT Phenomena

Past research into the numerical modeling of ultrasonic wave propagation and scattering in 2-D has resulted in an implicit Newmarktype finite element algorithm [1]. However, by applying this formulation to analytical line source problems [2], it was found that the resulting matrix sizes and computer execution times, even on powerful supercomputers such as the CYBER 205, become prohibitively large. New algorithmic approaches are therefore required to study realistic 2-D NDT suitable geometries and, more importantly, to extend the numerical model to full 3-D capabilities.
Reaktionen der Carbene

Eine allgemeine Methode zur Herstellung von Allenen wird durch das folgende Beispiel der Synthese von 1,2-Cyclononadien 2 aus cis-Cycloocten 1 veranschaulicht1.
Metabolic Alterations Accompany Ionic Disturbances and Cellular Swelling During a Hypoxic Insult to the Retina: an in vitro Study

To study the ionic, metabolic, and morphologic derangements that occur following brain injury we utilized a retina in vitro model of hypoxia. Retinas were dissected into oxygenated (95% O2, 5% CO2) Ames medium, a physiologic solution resembling cerebrospinal fluid, and randomly assigned to either experimental hypoxic conditions (95% N2, 5% CO2) or control conditions. All retinas were incubated and maintained at 37°C. Changes in extracellular K+ and lactate concentration, intracellular incorporation of 45Ca and 14C-leucine, uptake of glucose using [14C]-2-deoxy-D-glucose (2DG), and cell size were determined at 10, 20, 30, and 60 minute time intervals. The results show that compared to control retinas hypoxia produced: (1) an early increase in extracellular concentration of K+ and lactate, (2) a delayed increase in the intracellular incorporation of 45Ca, (3) an early onset of cellular swelling, and (4) a decrease in the intracellular incorporation of 14C-leucine, and (5) increased glucose utilization. All of the results were statistically significant (p >0.05) and exhibited a dose response relationship with the exception of intracellular incorporation of 45Ca which did not become significantly different until 30 minutes post-hypoxia. A 16% increase in cell size was noted after 10 minutes of hypoxia. Increased hypoxic cell size persisted for 30 minutes but after 60 minutes the control retinas appeared enlarged as well. Our results suggest that ionic, metabolic, and morphologic derangements can be demonstrated utilizing an in vitro model of hypoxia which are similar to those seen following in vivo traumatic brain injury. With use of this model the mechanisms behind these ionic-metabolic relationships can be addressed at the molecular level.
ERVmap analysis reveals genome-wide transcription of human endogenous retroviruses.

Endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) are integrated retroviral elements that make up 8% of the human genome. However, the impact of ERVs on human health and disease is not well understood. While select ERVs have been implicated in diseases, including autoimmune disease and cancer, the lack of tools to analyze genome-wide, locus-specific expression of proviral autonomous ERVs has hampered the progress in the field. Here we describe a method called ERVmap, consisting of an annotated database of 3,220 human proviral ERVs and a pipeline that allows for locus-specific genome-wide identification of proviral ERVs that are transcribed based on RNA-sequencing data, and provide examples of the utility of this tool. Using ERVmap, we revealed cell-type–specific ERV expression patterns in commonly used cell lines as well as in primary cells. We identified 124 unique ERV loci that are significantly elevated in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus that represent an IFN-independent signature. Finally, we identified additional tumor-associated ERVs that correlate with cytolytic activity represented by granzyme and perforin expression in breast cancer tissue samples. The open-source code of ERVmap and the accompanied web tool are made publicly available to quantify proviral ERVs in RNA-sequencing data with ease. Use of ERVmap across a range of diseases and experimental conditions has the potential to uncover novel disease-associated antigens and effectors involved in human health that is currently missed by focusing on protein-coding sequences.
Online Measurement Method for Parameters of Transmission Line Based on PMU

The traditional off-line measurement method for parameters of transmission line must deploy the equipment and personnel at both of the line. The earth loop has effect on the measurement result, especially the winter soil is frozen. To this end, the measurement method based on PMU is proposed. Using the synchronized phasor measurement, the method can eliminate the effects of the earth loop and measure online. In this paper, the effectiveness of the method is verified by the simulation example and actual measurement data. The sample precision of all the measured electric quantities are determined by sensitivity analysis. The results show that the existing PMU can meet the engineering accuracy requirements.
Rapid Acetabular Chondrolysis following Hemiarthroplasty of the Hip: A Poor Prognostic Sign

Both hemiarthroplasty and total hip arthroplasty have been well described as effective methods of management for displaced femoral neck fractures in the elderly. Acetabular erosion is a common long-term complication of hemiarthroplasty. We present a case in which rapid acetabular erosion occurs within weeks of hemiarthroplasty, ultimately leading to an acetabular fracture and need for revision to total hip arthroplasty. Early and rapid acetabular erosion following hip hemiarthroplasty has not been well documented in current literature. It may lead to acetabular fracture and may be secondary to infectious causes. If encountered, an infection workup should be initiated.
Critical scaling for yield is independent of distance to isostaticity

This paper uncovers a second-order critical scaling of the stress and strain of particle suspensions with a correlation length. This behavior appears to be independent of pressure, thus showing that yielding and isostaticity are distinct critical transitions. This may explain some similarities in the rheological response of suspensions of hard and soft particles.
Perioperative Harm Index facilitates prioritization of improvement initiatives.

Abstract Introduction Perioperative services constitute a significant portion of the care delivery, the impact, and the potential risk in healthcare organizations. Tremendous attention has been paid towards hospital-acquired conditions; however perioperative services have not received similar attention. There is a need for a standardized manner to report on conditions in perioperative services which facilitates prioritization of quality improvement initiatives. Materials and methods Preventable harm and quality of care indicators were selected based on a review of the literature and available datasets, as well as from safety and quality measures in our organization. Metrics were derived from myriad national quality improvement initiatives and collaboratives. A structure was created to obtain the metrics in a near real-time manner and present the Perioperative Harm Index across the organization. Specific initiatives were targeted as necessitating immediate, short-term, or longer duration prioritization for improvement initiatives. Results A Perioperative Harm Index was created using 11 metrics that represent the spectrum of surgical care. The metrics facilitate prioritization of improvement initiatives and have resulted in improvement projects including perioperative normothermia in neonatal intensive care unit patients having procedures in the operating room, reduction of post-operative nausea and vomiting, and decrease in surgical site infections in selected procedures. Conclusions A Perioperative Harm Index facilitates immediate shared understanding of the harm resulting from the care of surgical patients. As such, this index enables rapid and rationale prioritization for improvement activities. Our harm index is shared, is broadly generalizable, and has facilitated prioritization of improvement opportunities and appropriate allocation of improvement resources at our organization. Levels of Evidence Level V.
Social Media as a Tool for Teaching Large Enrollment Science Classes

College science instructors are faced with two main challenges, the first of which is student engagement in courses to ensure retention in the major and successful completion of the program. The second is to provide adequate training in the curriculum, such that students graduate with critical scientific competencies from college. College-age students, and even younger students worldwide, are heavy users of social media tools such as Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, and Twitter. Social media use is a means of engaging students by providing them an opportunity to connect, collaborate, communicate, and even generate new content online. Previous work has demonstrated the rich potential of these tools in augmenting student learning, and trends in education suggest that social media tools will become more mainstream in formal instruction. As a result, science classes could benefit greatly from incorporation of these social networking tools. In this chapter, I will provide a brief overview and guide to using social media in college STEM courses.
College students' regulation of cognition, motivation, behavior, and context: Distinct or overlapping processes?

Abstract The assumption that students can actively regulate multiple aspects of the learning process is foundational among many prominent conceptual models of self-regulated learning. However, empirical evidence does not yet clearly support the distinction between regulation of cognition, motivation, behavior, and context. This study (N = 273) focused on providing initial evidence on the distinction between cognitive, motivational, behavioral, and contextual aspects of college students' self-regulated learning and their unique roles in an integrated model with motivational antecedents and behavioral outcomes. Our findings demonstrate that students' reported use of regulatory strategies associated with motivation, cognition, behavior, and context are empirically distinct but closely related factors that each reflects a more general tendency for students to regulate their own learning. Our findings also indicate that the regulatory strategies associated with each of the four areas of self-regulated learning differentially associate with motivational antecedents and behavioral outcomes.
The Impact of Continuity of Care on Cervical Cancer Screening: How Visit Pattern Affects Guideline Concordance.

Cervical cancer can be prevented and highly curable if detected early. Current guidelines recommend women to receive cervical cancer screening starting at age 21. Our study aims to investigate how improving continuity of care (COC) may influence guideline concordance of cervical cancer screening. Using the eligibility and claims data, we created a person-month panel data set for women who were enrolled in Oregon Medicaid for at least 80% of the period from 2008 to 2015. We then selected our study cohort following the cervical cancer screening guidelines. Our dependent variable is whether a woman received cervical cancer screening concordant with guidelines in a given month, when she did not receive Pap test in the past 36 months and did not receive co-testing of HPV test plus Pap test in the past 60 months. We used both population-averaged logit model and conditional fixed-effect logit model to estimate the association between the guideline concordance and the COC index, after controlling for high risk, pregnancy, age, race, and ethnicity. A total of 466,526 person-month observations were included in our main models. A 0.1 unit increase of the COC score was significantly associated with a decrease in the odds of receiving guideline-concordant cervical cancer screening (population-averaged logit model: OR = 0.988, p < .001; conditional fixed-effect logit model: OR = 0.966, p < .001). Our findings remain robust to a series of sensitivity analyses. A better COC may not be necessarily beneficial to improving cervical cancer prevention. Educations for both physicians and patients should be supplemented to assure quality of preventive care.
Ten Year Experience With Ultrafiltration For The Management of Acute Decompensated Heart Failure

Background Randomized control trials (RCT) of ultrafiltration (UF) have demonstrated conflicting results regarding its efficacy and safety. We reviewed 10 years of real world data regarding UF during hospitalization for ADHF. Methods and Results We performed a retrospective, single center analysis of 335 consecutive patients treated with adjustable rate UF using the CHF Solutions Aquadex Flex Flo System from 7/28/2009 to 6/30/2019. UF for all patients was managed solely by the HF service. Compared to previous RCTs investigating UF, our cohort was older, with worse renal function, and more antecedent HF hospitalizations in the year preceding therapy. Patient characteristics were as follows: mean age 73, 57% male, 48% LVEF Conclusions Compared with previous trials with UF (UNLOAD, CARRESS and AVOID), our real world experience demonstrates that UF compares favorably for HF re-hospitalizations, renal function response, and weight /volume loss. Our cohort was sicker than those studied in clinical trials. Importantly, our real world experience allowed for the adjustment of UF rate during therapy, and we believe this to be a major contributor to our favorable outcomes. In clinical practice, UF can be a safe and effective strategy for decongestion.
Telerounding Offers High Patient Satisfaction After Total Joint Arthroplasty

BackgroundResearch in surgical fields other than orthopedics has demonstrated high patient satisfaction with non-traditional telerounding modalities.Questions/PurposesWe sought to determine patient...
Formaldehyde from Lignin Acidolysis Might Be Useful for In-Line Control of Industrial Biomass Processing

Wood processing typically involves heating that generates lignin-borne formaldehyde, a well-known aspect of lignin acidolysis that played an important role in early efforts to elucidate lignin stru...
Acute kidney injury and aging

Our aging population is growing and developing treatments for age-related diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease has taken on an increasing urgency and is accompanied by high public awareness. The already high and rising incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) in the elderly, however, has received relatively little attention despite the potentially fatal outcomes associated with an episode of AKI in this age group. When discussing AKI and aging, one should consider two aspects: first, elderly patients have an increased susceptibility to an AKI episode, and second, they have decreased kidney repair after AKI given the high incidence of progression to chronic kidney disease (CKD). It is unclear if the same factors that drive the increased susceptibility to AKI could be playing a role in the decreased repair capacity or if they are totally different and unrelated. This review will examine current knowledge on the risk factors for the increased susceptibility to AKI in the elderly and will also explore potential aspects that might contribute to a decreased kidney repair response in this age group.
Predicate Transformer Semantics: Representations by Relations

In this section we will introduce the typed formal language PBC for the Propositional logic of Boolean Categories which may be regarded as loop-free propositional dynamic logic with data types. The main result is that the set of formulas valid in all Boolean categories coincides precisely with the set of formulas true in Mfn . We give two proofs. The first works only for atomic Boolean categories, but the construction is very straightforward. The second, general proof uses ultrafilters and follows that of [Kozen 1980] for dynamic algebras. The language PDL of [Fischer and Ladner 1979] defines programs and formulas by mutual recursion as follows (where we have made notational changes to conform to previous sections of this paper): Atomic programs are programs; ∅ is a program; if α, β are programs and P is a formula then αβ, α + β, α * and p (the guard corresponding to P) are programs . Atomic formulas are formulas; true and false are formulas; if P, Q are formulas and α is a program then P∪Q, P′ and P are formulas . The Kripke model semantics which is standard for PDL is, essentially, Mfn so that α + β = α∪β and α * are available. In particular, if-then-else can be expressed as in 8.24. The identity program is expressible as 0 * .
Identification and characterization of potential stem cells in the oral and esophageal mucosa: Platform for understanding cancer biology

2793 Introduction: Keratinocyte stem cells that reside in the oral and esophageal mucosa are thought to divide rarely (slow cycling), capable of self-renewal, resist apoptosis and give rise to transit amplifying cells, which actively divide before undergoing terminal differentiation. Such stem cells may be permissive for the accumulation of genetic alterations, and thus prone to carcinogenesis. Therefore, it is essential to understand the mechanisms of cell fate decision and regulation of cell proliferation of these stem cells. However, no stem cell markers exist in order to provide a basis for isolation and characterization of such cells. Methods: To identify slow cycling cells, BrdU was administered to adult BL6 mice daily for 4 weeks and they were monitored for an additional 4 weeks. Immunohistochemistry was done for BrdU to detect nucleotide label retaining cells (LRC). Keratinocytes and bone marrow cells were isolated from the BL6 mice, and stained with Hoechst 33342 to detect a Verapamil-sensitive side population (SP) as a putative stem cell fraction. Flow cytometry was performed for β1-integrin (CD29), α6-integrin (CD49f), CD34 and Sca-1 as putative stem cell markers. RNA purified from flow-sorted SP and non-SP cells of the esophagus was subjected to linear amplification by in vitro transcription and gene array using an Affymetrix gene chip mouse 430A. Results: LRC were found only in the basal layer of the esophageal and tongue epithelia, and the epidermis. The total percentage of SP cells was consistent with that of LRC. Importantly, the LRC appeared to be enriched in the SP cell fraction. SP showed higher positivity for CD29 and CD49f than non-SP in the skin but not in the tongue and esophagus. CD34, but not Sca-1, positive cells were enriched in SP of the tongue and esophagus. The 430A gene array revealed that 93 genes were 25-fold or more increased and 185 genes were 25-fold or more decreased in SP compared with non-SP. Among them was CD49f which two independent probe sets detected a decrease (73.5- and 103.9-fold) in SP. SP showed 18.4-fold increase of CD34 and 5.7-fold increase of ABCG2, an ATP binding cassette transporter associated with Hoechst 33342 efflux. These appeared to be consistent with the flow cytometry data. Importantly, key genes involved in adhesion and cell-cell communication are preferentially expressed in SP. Conclusion: LRC were identified within the oral and esophageal epithelia. They were highly enriched in a Hoechst 33342 negative SP cell fraction that are consistent with stem cells. These cells do not express certain stem cell markers observed in the epidermis or the bone marrow, suggesting unique features of oral and esophageal stem cells. Pathways involving cell adhesion and cell-cell communication, especially between stem cells and progenitor cells, and stem cells and mesenchymal cells, may distinguish stem cells in the oral and esophageal mucosa.
Engraftment of Allogeneic Hematopoietic Progenitor Cells With Purine Analog-Containing Chemotherapy: Harnessing Graft-Versus-Leukemia Without Myeloablative Therapy

The immune-mediated graft-versus-leukemia effect is important to prevent relapse after allogeneic progenitor cell transplantation. This process requires engraftment of donor immuno-competent cells. The objective of this study was to assess the feasibility of achieving engraftment of allogeneic peripheral blood or bone marrow progenitor cell after purine analog containing nonmyeloablative chemotherapy. Patients with advanced leukemia or myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) who were not candidates for a conventional myeloablative therapy because of older age or organ dysfunction were eligible. All patients had an HLA-identical or one-antigen-mismatched related donor. Fifteen patients were treated (13 with acute myeloid leukemia and 2 with MDS). The median age was 59 years (range, 27 to 71 years). Twelve patients were either refractory to therapy or beyond first relapse. Eight patients received fludarabine at 30 mg/m2/d for 4 days with idarubicin at 12 mg/m2/d for 3 days and ara-c at 2 g/m2/d for 4 days (n = 7) or melphalan at 140 mg/m2/d (n = 1). Seven patients received 2-chloro-deoxyadenosine at 12 mg/m2/d for 5 days and ara-C 1 at g/m2/d for 5 days. Thirteen patients received allogeneic peripheral blood stem cells and 1 received bone marrow after chemotherapy. Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis consisted of cyclosporine and methyl-prednisolone. Treatment was generally well tolerated, with only 1 death from multiorgan failure before receiving stem cells. Thirteen patients achieved a neutrophil count of greater than 0.5 x 10(9)/L a median of 10 days postinfusion (range, 8 to 17 days). Ten patients achieved platelet counts of 20 x 10(9)/L a median of 13 days after progenitor cell infusion (range, 7 to 78 days). Eight patients achieved complete remissions (bone marrow blasts were or = 2 occurred in 3 patients. Chimerism analysis of bone marrow cells in 6 of 8 patients achieving remission showed > or = 90% donor cells between 14 and 30 days postinfusion, and 3 of 4 patients remaining in remission between 60 and 90 days continued to have > or = 80% donor cells. We conclude that purine analog-containing nonmyeloablative regimens allow engraftment of HLA-compatible hematopoietic progenitor cells. This approach permits us to explore the graft-versus-leukemia effect without the toxicity of myeloablative therapy and warrants further study in patients with leukemia who are ineligible for conventional transplantation with myeloablative regimens either because of age or concurrent medical conditions.
Drivers of Plankton Patch Formation, Persistence and Decline in East Sound, Orcas Island, Washington

Abstract : Localized concentrations of plankton (i.e. patches) alter the optical and acoustical properties of the water column and can have significant ramifications for the ecological dynamics of marine communities. The goal of this research is to develop a mechanistic understanding and predictive capability of the relative importance of biological versus physical processes in the formation, persistence, and decline of plankton patches. This goal is addressed by concurrent characterization of physical water column structure, advective fluid flow, and plankton population rates of growth and grazing.
An inositolphosphate-binding immunophilin, IPBP12.

A novel inositolphosphate-binding protein has been identified and shown to be an immunophilin. This protein, which was isolated from human erythrocyte membranes and from K562 (human erythroleukemia) cell membranes, has robust peptidylprolyl cis-trans isomerase activity that is strongly inhibited by nanomolar concentrations of FK506 or rapamycin, indicating a member of the FKBP (FK506-binding protein) class. However, unlike the cytosolic FKBP12, the isomerase activity of this membrane-associated immunophilin is strongly inhibited by nanomolar concentrations of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3), inositol 1,3,4,5-tetrakisphosphate (IP4), and phosphatidylinositol 4- and 4,5-phosphates, which are suggested to be physiological ligands. The demonstration of a single 12-kD protein that binds both IP4 or IP3and anti-FKBP12 provides strong support for the inositolphosphate-binding immunophilin having an apparent mass of 12 kD, and it is suggested that the protein might be called IPBP12 for 12-kD inositol phosphate binding protein. When an internal tryptic peptide derived from IPBP12 was sequenced, a sequence also present in human cytokeratin 10 was identified, suggesting a cytoskeletal localization for the immunophilin. While purifying IPBP12, it was found that it is immunoprecipitated with specific proteins that include a protein kinase and a phosphoprotein phosphatase. The latter is indicated to be phosphoprotein phosphatase 2A (PP-2A). It is suggested that immunophilins promote the assembly of multiprotein complexes that often include a protein kinase or a phosphoprotein phosphatase or both.
Assessment of Murine Startle Reactivity, Prepulse Inhibition, and Habituation

The study of the startle response and its plasticity provides a powerful research paradigm for examining the neural control of behavior. The neural substrates underlying phenomena such as information-processing functions, including sensorimotor gating, affective modulation, and habituation, can be studied using startle plasticity as an operational measure. The mouse is rapidly becoming the most powerful model system for the study of human CNS function and is highly amenable to both genetic and pharmacological study. This unit describes procedures for the assessment of the startle response to acoustic stimuli in mice; methods for assessing prepulse inhibition (PPI) of startle, with treatments including drug administration and genetic manipulation; and methods for testing habituation.
Palladium(II) Chloride–Silver(I) Acetate

(PdCl2) [7647-10-1] Cl2Pd (MW 177.32) InChI = 1S/2ClH.Pd/h2*1H;/q;;+2/p-2 InChIKey = PIBWKRNGBLPSSY-UHFFFAOYSA-L (AgOAc) [563-63-3] C2H3AgO2 (MW 166.92) InChI = 1S/C2H4O2.Ag/c1-2(3)4;/h1H3,(H,3,4);/q;+1/p-1 InChIKey = CQLFBEKRDQMJLZ-UHFFFAOYSA-M (catalyst system used for the allylic oxidation of alkenes and for altering the regioselectivity of intermolecular Heck reactions of allylic alcohols) Physical Data: see Palladium(II) Chloride and Silver(I) Acetate.
Investigating Self-Regulated Learning in Teachable Agent Environments

We have developed a computer-based learning environment that helps students learn science by constructing causal concept map models. The system builds upon research in learning-by-teaching (LBT) and has students take on the role and responsibilities of being the teacher to a virtual student named Betty. The environment is structured so that successfully instructing their teachable agents requires the students to learn and understand the science topic for themselves. This learning process is supported through the use of adaptive scaffolding provided by feedback from the two agents in the system: the teachable agent, Betty, and a mentor agent, Mr. Davis. For example, if Betty performs poorly on a quiz, she may tell the student that she needs to learn more about the topics on which she is performing poorly. In addition, Mr. Davis may suggest that students ask Betty questions and get her to explain her answers to help them trace the causal reasoning chains in their map and find out where she may be making mistakes. Thus the system is designed to help students develop and refine their own knowledge construction and monitoring strategies as they teach their agent.
A parallel algorithm for computing invariants of Petri net models

Parallel algorithms for the analysis of Petri net models are discussed. It is argued that the application of Petri nets in areas like performance modeling and software engineering lead to complex nets whose analysis can only be performed by exploiting the explicit parallelism in existing methods of analysis and by developing parallel analysis algorithms. The focus of this paper is the structural net analysis. A parallel algorithm for computing net invariants using a distributed memory multiprocessor system is presented. The paper discusses its implementation, and gives preliminary performance measurements. >
Ionic Requirements for Amino Acid Transport

The reabsorption of amino acids by the proximal tubule is remarkably efficient. Current evidence indicates that this process occurs by Na + -amino acid cotransport or symport. The energy for amino acid entry is derived from the chemical and voltage gradient for Na + entry across the apical surface of the renal cell maintained by pumping Na + out of the cell by Na + -K+ -adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) activity at the basolateral membrane. We chose the -amino acid taurine to study the anionic requirements as well as voltageand p H-dependence of Na + -taurine symport into rat proximal tubule brush border membrane vesicles. Maximal uptake was found when Clor Brwere the anions. The addition of various ionophores (amiloride, carbonyl cyanide-n chlorophenyl-hydrazone, and va linomycin) under p H-equilibrated conditions did not change taurine entry into the vesicle. Hill equation analysis of the initialrate of taurine uptake into vesicles indicates that transport operates by means of a 2 Na + :1 Cl-:1 taurine carrier complex.Becuase taurine is a zwitterion, this complex has a net positive charge.Its entry into the vesicle is favored by the imposition of an outwardly directed K + gradient in the presence of valinomycin. The movement of a quarternary complex of this type across the apical surface of the proximal tubular cell would assure that the movement of both Cland the amino acid is energized by the Na+ gradient. Because most amino acids are zwitte rions at physiologic p H this complex would be positively charged, favoring entry into the voltage negative renal cell interior.
Potential Propagule Sources for Reestablishing Vegetation on the Floodplain of the Kissimmee River, Florida, USA

After channellization of the Kissimmee River, the primary land use of the drained floodplain was cattle pasture but included sod farms. A project to restore the river began in 1999. One of its goals is to reestablish the three dominant, pre-channelization vegetation types (wetland shrub, broadleaf marsh, and wet prairie) in areas where they previously were found. We investigated whether indicator species of these three vegetation types were present in 53 permanent quadrats on the drained floodplain. All seven indicator species were found in the permanent quadrats. We also examined three potential sources of propagules (relict wetlands, seed banks, and several surrogates of hydrochory) for these indicator species. All seven species were found in adjacent relict wetlands; and six were found in the seed banks of permanent quadrats. Based on binomial logistic regressions, the presence of relict wetlands and surrogates for flooding (relative elevation, total days flooded) can predict the presence or absence of most of these indicator species. Sod farming reduced the presence of wet-prairie and broadleaf marsh indicator species in permanent quadrats, in adjacent relict wetlands and in the seed bank. The potential importance of relict wetlands for the re-vegetation of the floodplain was our most important finding.
Using analytical and simulation modeling for early factory prototyping

Simulation and modeling needs became apparent early in the design of a Greenfield manufacturing facility, especially in the areas of factory floor design support and in factory floor scheduling. Simulation packages were introduced to this project earlier than normal to help drive the design, rather than waiting for the facility design to drive the system development. Time constraint was another reason for the early development of the prototypes; the models and scheduling systems will be tailored while the factory is brought on line.
REM-related bradyarrhythmia syndrome

Cardiac arrhythmias during sleep are relatively common and include a diverse etiology, from benign sinus bradycardia to potentially fatal ventricular arrhythmias. Predisposing factors include obstructive sleep apnea and cardiac disease. Rapid eye movement (REM)-related bradyarrhythmia syndrome (including sinus arrest and complete atrioventricular block with ventricular asystole) in the absence of an underlying cardiac or physiologic sleep disorder was first described in the early 1980s. Although uncertain, the underlying pathophysiology likely reflects abnormal autonomic neural-cardiac inputs during REM sleep. The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is a known key modulator of heart rate fluctuations and rhythm during sleep and nocturnal heart rate reflects a balance between the sympathetic-parasympathetic systems. Whether the primary trigger for REM-related bradyarrhythmias reflects abnormal centrally mediated control of the ANS during REM sleep or anomalous baroreflex parasympathetic influences is unknown. This review focuses on the salient features of the REM-related bradyarrhythmia syndrome and explores potential mechanisms with a particular assessment of the relationship between the ANS and nocturnal heart rate fluctuations.
Structural and Dynamic Markers of Membrane Osmotic Stress From X-Ray Scattering and Solid-State 2H NMR

Osmotic membrane deformation is one of the most important determinants of biomembrane structure and dynamics since it leads to an alteration of the physiological membrane function [1]. Collective motions within lipid membranes are governed by molecular-scale interactions that are manifested in bilayer material properties. One way to investigate this emergence of material properties over mesoscopic distances is to measure the biomembrane dynamics in the extreme limit of low hydration [2]. To quantify both the structure and dynamic properties of the lipids in this high osmotic stress regime it is useful to apply both 2H NMR spectroscopy and small-angle X-ray scattering. 2H NMR is sensitive to dynamic fluctuations accessed in nuclear spin relaxation experiments, while X-ray scattering provides precise measures of the membrane structural properties [3]. We find that hydration to only a few water molecules per lipid, either gravimetrically or through use of osmolytes, results in large differences in the properties of membranes as observed in the NMR and X-ray experiments. Changes of the 2H NMR acyl chain order parameters SCD and relaxation rates R1Z of multilamellar phospholipid dispersions in the liquid-crystalline state at extremely low hydration levels are mirrored by reduction in inter-bilayer D-spacings as detected by small-angle X-ray scattering. Our results demonstrate that in the regime of high osmotic stress membrane dynamics become increasingly sensitive to small changes in the number of waters per lipid. These changes correspond to an alteration of dynamic fluctuations indicative of collective lipid interactions that are mediated by the water content of the system.[1] R.P. Rand, V.A. Parsegian, (1989) BBA 988, 351-376.[2] M.F. Brown et al, (2002), JACS 124, 8471-8484.[3] H.I. Petrache, M.F. Brown, (2007), Methods in Membrane Lipids, Humana Press, pp. 339-351.
Identification of molecular signature of head and neck cancer stem-like cells

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is the sixth most prevalent cancer in the world. HNSCC remains difficult to treat, and despite advances in treatment, overall survival rate has modestly improved over the past several years. Poor survival rate is attributed to high frequency of local recurrence and distant metastasis. Cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) have been implicated in tumor recurrence and confer resistance to anti-cancer therapy treatment. In this study, we have characterized genes that are modulated in HNSCC-CSCs and can be targeted in future as potential therapeutics. CSCs were isolated from HNSCC cells (oralspheres) and examined for tumorigenicity in immunodeficient mice. We observed aggressive tumor growth with oralspheres as compared to parental cells. The CSC-derived tumors were grossly extremely vascularized and expressed VEGFR1. We next analyzed the molecular determinant of oralspheres. In addition to CD133 and Nanog, we observed significant higher expression of Notch1 protein in the oralspheres. There was differential expression of angiogenesis and invasive marker genes such as angiopoietin1, integrin β3, MMP9 and THBS1. Interestingly, c-Fos was upregulated in oralspheres as compared to parental cells. Our observations suggest that understanding the molecular determinant of oralspheres will help in developing future therapeutic modalities against treatment resistant HNSCC.
Independently evolved jamming avoidance responses employ identical computational algorithms: a behavioral study of the African electric fish, Gymnarchus niloticus

An African electric fish, Gymnarchus, and a South American electric fish, Eigenmannia, are believed to have evolved their electrosensory systems independently. Both fishes, nevertheless, gradually shift the frequency of electric organ discharge away when they encounter a neighbor of a similar discharge frequency. Computational algorithms employed by Gymnarchus for this jamming avoidance response have been identified in this study for comparison with those of extensively studied Eigenmannia. 1. Gymnarchus determines whether it should raise or lower its discharge frequency based solely upon the signal mixture of its own reafferent and the exafferent signal from a neighbor, and does not internally refer to the pacemaker command signal which drives its own discharge. 2. The signal mixture is analyzed in terms of the time courses of amplitude modulation and phase modulation at each area of the body surface. 3. Phase of the signal mixture at each area is compared with that of another area for the detection of phase modulation. 4. Unambiguous information necessary for the jamming avoidance response is extracted by integrating information from all body areas each of which yields ambiguous information. 5. These computational features are identical to those of Eigenmannia, suggesting that the neural circuit for jamming avoidance responses may have evolved from preexisting mechanisms for electrolocation in both fishes.
The risk of leukemia from low doses of low-LET radiation

In this communication, we examine the evidence (if any) for a nonlinear dose response in relation to leukemia mortality in the Japanese A-bomb population. Specifically, we seek an estimate of the probability that, at low doses of radiation, the relative risk (RR) is smaller than one. Using Bayesian bootstrap techniques, we find that there is a 90% probability that-for at least one dose group at or below 200 mSv-there is a reduction of effect relative to the control group. We take this as evidence for radiation hormesis (end point: leukemia mortality) at low doses of radiation.
Simultaneous measurement of refractive index and temperature based on a reflection-mode long-period grating and an intrinsic Fabry–Perot interferometer sensor

We have demonstrated a single fiber probe for simultaneous measurement of external refractive index and temperature based on two interferometers: a reflection-mode long-period grating (LPG) for refractometry and an intrinsic Fabry-Perot interferometer (IFPI) for temperature measurement. Since the output signal of the combined structure is a superposition of signals produced by both sensors, which have different spatial frequencies, the original signals needed for the index and temperature measurements can be separated and recovered through digital filters.
IMPACT OF POLLUTION CONTROL REGULATIONS ON THE MARKET RISK OF SECURITIES IN THE U.S.

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effects of the recent water and air pollution control legislation in the United States upon the market risk of the firms in the most directly affected industries, such as chemicals, electric utilities, iron and steel, petroleum, non‐ferrous metals and textiles, during the period 1953–75.
Ultrastructure and composition of the synaptonemal complex in spread and negatively stained spermatocytes of the golden hamster and the albino rat.

The ultrastructure of the synaptonemal complex (SC) has been studied in spermatocytes of the golden hamster and the albino rat, spread on liquid surfaces and negatively stained with uranyl acetate. The conditions for a reproducible procedure for spreading the SC have been specified. Spreading on water causes large losses of material from the complex. Spreading on 0.45–0.9% NaCl in water results in good preservation of the SC. Ethanol dehydration introduces irreversible changes in the shape of the chromatin fibers and the components of the complex. Digestions with DNase and proteases, extraction with 2M NaCl and fixation in an aqueous solution of formaldehyde permit analysis of the components of the SC. The lateral elements of the SC are formed by three components: 1) the bulk material which is protease sensitive, DNase resistant, insoluble in 2M NaCl and partially soluble in water; 2) the axial attachment regions of the chromatin fiber; and 3) an axial and linear filament, 65 A wide, which is DNase sensitive. It is suggested that this linear 65 A filament contains a single linear DNA molecule to which the chromatin fibers are attached. The central element of the SC is made of fibrillar material, most of which is DNase resistant and protease sensitive. Fibrils 25 A wide cross the central space and merge with the central element. The cross fibrils and the central element are labile in solutions containing less than 0.45% NaCl. — From the present results and previous data on diplotene axes (Solari, 1970), it is concluded that the lateral elements of the SC of hamster and rat spermatocytes are undivided during pachytene. It is suggested that the singleness of the axes in the lateral elements is based on the presence of a single DNA molecule axially located in the lateral elements, and that the chromatin fibers are symmetrically attached to this DNA molecule.
On the computation of Euler’s constant

The computation of Eider’s constant, γ, to 3566 decimal places by a procedure not previously used is described. As a part of this computation, the natural logarithm of 2 has been evaluated to 3683 decimal places. A different procedure was used in computations of γ performed by J. C. Adams in 1878 [1] and J. W. Wrench, Jr. in 1952 [2], and recently by D. E. Knuth [3]. This latter procedure is critically compared with that used in the present calculation. The new approximations to γ and ln 2 are reproduced in extenso at the end of this paper.
Interpreting null pronouns (pro) in isolated sentences

Abstract This study – one of the first “field psycholinguistics” studies conducted in an indigenous language of North America – examined how native speakers of Odawa (Ottawa) interpret pro in isolated sentences. The results suggest that Odawa speakers assume that the identities of actors in transitive sentences with two third-person participants will conform to the general expectation that more topical argument will be more likely to be dropped, will be more animate, and also will be marked with proximate morphology, which is used along with verbal morphology in Odawa to establish thematic roles. These features are captured in a number of feature hierarchies, which are generally aligned in unmarked situations. Speakers assume that when this canonical alignment of feature hierarchies is violated, the argument that does not conform to it will be less likely to be replaced by pro . Misinterpretation rates were observed in Odawa to be higher when pro replaced arguments that did not conform to canonical alignment, and also when overt arguments were used when the features did align canonically. The authors propose that isolated sentences containing pro are assumed by native speakers to conform to hierarchy-based expectations about the identities of dropped arguments.
Preoperative treatment with human chorionic gonadotropin in infancy decreases the severity of proximal hypospadias and chordee.

ABSTRACTPurpose: We determined whether human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) pretreatment of severe proximal penoscrotal hypospadias and chordee causes sufficient penile shaft or skin enlargement to enhance surgical repair and improve patient outcome.Materials and Methods: A total of 12 boys 6 to 12 months old with proximal hypospadias and severe chordee received a course of HCG for 5 weeks immediately preceding hypospadias repair.Results: Chordee decreased and penile length increased in all cases (mean increase 94%). Penile length gain was disproportional. Most of the increase in length was proximal to the urethral meatus, which moved the meatus distally an average of 11.4 mm. (range 6.0 to 19.0), producing a mean increase of 586% in the distance between the penoscrotal junction and meatus. In contrast, there was no statistically significant increase in penile shaft length distal to the urethral meatus. Surgical treatment was facilitated by HCG pretreatment. Three meatal based repairs were performed, only 1...
Suppression of the unsteady vortex wakes of a circular cylinder pair by a doublet-like counter-rotation

The present investigation examines the suppression of unsteady, two-dimensional wake instabilities of a pair of identical circular cylinders, placed side-by-side normal to freestream at a low Reynolds number of 150. It is found that when the cylinders are counter-rotated, unsteady vortex wakes can be completely suppressed. At fast enough rotational speeds, a virtual elliptic body is produced by a closed streamline, strongly resembling a doublet potential flow. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Aqueous spectroscopy and redox properties of carboxylate-bound titanium.

The aqueous chemistry of Ti(III) and Ti(IV) in two different chemical environments is investigated given its relevance to environmental, materials, and biological chemistry. Complexes of titanium with the carboxylate ligands citrate and oxalate, found ubiquitously in Nature, were synthesized. The redox properties were studied by using cyclic voltammetry. All the titanium citrate redox couples are quasi-reversible. Electrospray mass spectrometry of the Ti(III) citrate solution shows the presence of a 1:2 Ti/cit complex in solution, in contrast to the predominant 1:3 Ti/cit complex with Ti(IV). The change in the coordination of the ligand to the metal on reduction may explain the quasi-reversible behavior of the electrochemistry. The redox potentials for Ti(IV) citrate in water vary with pH. At pH 7, the approximate E1/2 is less than −800 mV. This stated change in redox properties is considered in light of the previously reported Ti(IV) citrate solution speciation. Analogous speciation behavior is suggested...