cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A novel clustering approach and prediction of optimal number of clusters: global optimum search with enhanced positioning

Cluster analysis of genome-wide expression data from DNA microarray hybridization studies is a useful tool for identifying biologically relevant gene groupings (DeRisi et al. 1997; Weiler et al. 1997). It is hence important to apply a rigorous yet intuitive clustering algorithm to uncover these genomic relationships. In this study, we describe a novel clustering algorithm framework based on a variant of the Generalized Benders Decomposition, denoted as the Global Optimum Search (Floudas et al. 1989; Floudas 1995), which includes a procedure to determine the optimal number of clusters to be used. The approach involves a pre-clustering of data points to define an initial number of clusters and the iterative solution of a Linear Programming problem (the primal problem) and a Mixed-Integer Linear Programming problem (the master problem), that are derived from a Mixed Integer Nonlinear Programming problem formulation. Badly placed data points are removed to form new clusters, thus ensuring tight groupings amongst the data points and incrementing the number of clusters until the optimum number is reached. We apply the proposed clustering algorithm to experimental DNA microarray data centered on the Ras signaling pathway in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and compare the results to that obtained with some commonly used clustering algorithms. Our algorithm compares favorably against these algorithms in the aspects of intra-cluster similarity and inter-cluster dissimilarity, often considered two key tenets of clustering. Furthermore, our algorithm can predict the optimal number of clusters, and the biological coherence of the predicted clusters is analyzed through gene ontology.
Asset Indivisibility and Investment Planning: An Application of Linear Programming

A multi-period linear programming model is used to evaluate the effect of investments in indivisible land units on various measures of firm growth. Complete evaluation is found to depend upon the degree of asset indivisibility, the manager's planning horizon, and on the chosen financial or physical measures of growth.
A Reevaluation of the Role of Prairie Dogs in Great Plains Grasslands

Recent articles in the scientific literature and popular press have argued for federal protection for prairie dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus) based on their role as a keystone species in North American grasslands. A critical evaluation of published studies, however, reveals that our knowledge of the effects of prairie dogs on other animals may be more limited and equivocal than these articles suggest. Moreover, differences in responses to grazing and disturbance of the types of grasslands inhabited by prairie dogs suggest that prairie dogs may affect the vegetation and fauna of these systems differently, yet we know little about their ecological role in many grasslands. Future research may provide convincing evidence that prairie dogs have disproportionately large, unique effects on prairie ecosystems, but it may be premature to characterize prairie dogs as keystone species in grasslands throughout the Great Plains. Despite decades of interest in and study of the effects of this conspicuous and influential species, large gaps in our knowledge of the ecology of prairie dogs persist and warrant additional research. Reevalucion del Papel de Perros de Pradera en los Pastizales de la Gran Planicie Articulos recientes en la literatura cientifica y la prensa han argumentado la proteccion federal de los perros de pradera (Cynomys ludovicianus) en base a su papel como especie clave en los pastizales de Norteamerica. Sin embargo, una evaluacion critica de los estudios publicados revela que nuestro conocimiento de los efectos de los perros de pradera en otros animales puede ser mas limitado y equivoco de lo que estos articulos sugieren. Mas aun, diferencias en respuestas a pastoreo y otras perturbaciones etre los tipos de pastizales habitados por los perros de pradera sugieren que los perros pueden afectar la vegetacion y la fauna de estos sistemas de forma diferente, sin embargo, conocemos muy poco sobre su papel ecologico en muchos pastizales. Informacion futura podria proveer evidencias convincentes de que los perros de pradera tienen efectos desproporcionadamente grandes y unicos en los ecosistemas de pradera, pero seria prematuro caracterizar a los perros como una especie clave en pastizales a lo largo de la Gran Planicie. A pesar de decadas de interes y estudio de los efectos de estas especies conspicuas e influyentes, aun permanecen grandes espacios vacios en el conocimiento de la ecologia de los perros de pradera, mismos que merecen investigacion adicional.
MadApp: A Middleware for Opportunistic Data in Mobile Web Applications

Mobile computing increasingly often entails applications that embody opportunistic or delay-tolerant communication, and while much work has focused on refining and optimizing the technical underpinnings for providing delay-tolerant communication constructs, there is almost a complete lack of support for integrating opportunistic communication functionality at the application level. This paper introduces MadApp, an application-level development framework that provides tailored abstractions and support infrastructure for creating dynamic web pages that can incorporate received content from various opportunistic communication channels on-the-fly. We describe multiple application scenarios in which these constructs can seamlessly apply, and provide a complete conceptual and concrete architecture and implementation for MadApp. We evaluate MadApp's support for opportunistic mobile computing web applications using two different mobility trace data sets collected from the real-world. This paper demonstrates that MadApp enables opportunistic mobile computing applications to begin to leverage the significant advances in delay-tolerant communication research, opening doors for even more dynamic and adaptive applications.
Efficacy of the laparoscopic approach for anterior lumbar spinal fusion.

Abstract Background. This study compares the immediate postoperative outcomes in patients who undergo laparoscopic and open anterior lumbar spinal fusion and describes the learning curve associated with the performance of this procedure. Methods. The charts of patients who underwent anterior lumbar spinal fusion between January 1995 and July 1999 were reviewed. Data pertaining to the operation and postoperative course were analyzed and compared. Results. Eighty-nine patients underwent anterior lumbar spinal fusion. Fourteen patients were excluded; a full analysis was performed on the records of the remaining 75 patients. Fifty-five patients underwent an attempted laparoscopic procedure, and 20 patients underwent an open procedure. The conversion rate was 38% (21/55 patients) in the group who underwent the laparoscopic procedure. In the 34 patients whose laparoscopic procedure was completed, there was significantly less blood loss and shorter postoperative ileus, but the operative time was longer, when compared with patients who underwent the open procedure. The laparoscopic procedures performed in 1999 resulted in fewer conversions, less blood loss, and a shorter operating room time, when compared with the laparoscopic procedures in 1998. Conclusions. Laparoscopic anterior lumbar spinal fusion improves immediate postoperative results when compared with open anterior lumbar spinal fusion. (Surgery 2000;128:589-96.)
Characterization of conduction in the ventricles of normal and heterozygous Cx43 knockout mice using optical mapping.

Conduction in Normal and C×43+/− Mice. Introduction: Gap junction channels are important determinants of conduction in the heart and may play a central role in the development of lethal cardiac arrhythmias. The recent development of a C×43-deficient mouse has raised fundamental questions about the role of specific connexin isoforms in intercellular communication in the heart. Although a homozygous null mutation of the C×43 gene (C×43−/−) is lethal, the heterozygous (Cx43+/−) animals survive to adulthood. Reports on the cardiac electrophysiologic phenotype of the C×43+/− mice are contradictory. Thus, the effects of a null mutation of a single C×43 allele require reevaluation. Methods and Results: High-resolution video mapping techniques were used to study propagation in hearts from C×43+/− and littermate control (C×43+/+) mice. Local conduction velocities (CVs) and conduction patterns were quantitatively measured by determining conduction vectors. We undertook the characterization of ECG parameters and epicardial CVs of normal and Cx43+/− mouse hearts. ECG measurements obtained from 12 C×43+/+ and 6 C×43+/− age matched mice did not show differences in any parameter, including QRS duration (14.5 ± 0.9 and 15.7 ± 2.3 msec for C×43+/+ and C×43+/−, respectively). In addition, using a sensitive method of detecting changes in local CV, video images of epicardial wave propagation revealed similar activation patterns and velocities in both groups of mice. Conclusion: A sensitive method that accurately measures local CVs throughout the ventricles revealed no changes in C×43+/− mice, which is consistent with the demonstration that ECG parameter values in the heterozygous mice are the same as those in wild-type mice.
Effect of Testosterone Propionate on Anal Fin Transformation of Female Viviparous Teleost, Xiphophorus Helleri Heckel

ConclusionsThe transformation of the normal female anal fin into a male-like gonopod is induced by prolonged administration of testosterone propionate. Such treatments influence this secondary sex characteristic in all cases, from female to male, over an interval of approximately 5 months. These experimentally induced transformations of the normal female anal fin into that of a male-like gonopod were observed in all of 91 specimens so treated.
Time series analysis of hormonal patterns in human plasma.

Abstract Methods of time series analysis were applied to half-hourly plasma levels of aldosterone, growth hormone, and renin activity in four normal volunteers and one patient (CH) with aldosterone producing adenoma. The evidence suggests that the hormonal time series of normal subjects are homologous, when their mean levels are made equal; therefore, they can be concatenated in a single series. Analysis in the time domain and in the frequency domain suggest a predominant 24-hr periodicity. Cross-correlation indicates synchrony of aldosterone with renin and of cortisol with corticosterone, suggesting common regulatory mechanisms; it also shows a 5-hr lag difference between the two pairs, indicative of their phase relation. In CH, lag-correlation and spectral analysis of aldosterone, and renin differ from the normal, those of cortisol and of corticosterone are similar to the normal group. These results indicate that time series analysis may be a useful, objective and quantitative approach to the analysis of complex hormonal patterns in plasma.
Carbon Isotope Abundance in Meteoritic Carbonates.

The C 13 /C 12 ratio in the carbonate minerals of Orgueil, a carbonaceous chondrite, is 6 percent greater than the ratio in any known terrestrial carbon. The effect may be produced by a chemical isotope fractionation involving processes not common on earth, or it may be the result of incomplete homogenization of substances with different histories of nucleosynthesis.
Injection of vehicle is not a stressor in Porsolt's swim test.

Abstract A single injection or chronic injections with vehicle are reported to induce physical changes in the brain, suggesting this treatment may be stressful. Furthermore, preliminary observations indicate that vehicle injections may interact with the behavioral effects of psychoactive compounds. We investigated the behavioral response to an injection in two tests sensitive to stress: Porsolt's swim test of depressive behavior and the resident-intruder test of aggression. Acute or repeated injections of vehicle did not alter immobility in the swim test in “normal” male NIH Swiss mice, isolated mice, or mice previously exposed to continuous fight stress. Behavior in the resident-intruder test was similar in injected and noninjected mice. The present data suggest that in male NIH Swiss mice a vehicle injection does not induce behavioral changes in tests sensitive to stress, although it is shown to alter various physiological parameters indicative of stress.
Cavitation in a Pb/low-Sn solder during low cycle fatigue

Observation, par fragilisation par metaux fondus en particulier le gallium, de la cavitation aux joints de grains dans l'assemblage Pb-2% Sn apres des essais de fatigue oligocyclique. La densite des cavites augmente lineairement avec le nombre de fatigue, puis augmente a plus faible vitesse avec la coalescence des cavites. Influence des cycles de fatigue sur le diametre des cavites
The local and the national in a diverse county: Objectification as a social and policy process

Abstract The rich diversity of suburban Washington DC's ethnic and linguistic communities flourish side by side with some of the most powerful homogenizing forces in the United States: National Bureau of Standards, National Institutes of Health, Food and Drug Administration, Department of Education. This concern on accommodating centralized standards – not only in education, but also many areas of the economy, politics and bureaucracy – is such a pervasive feature of the activities of workers in the region that when researchers at GWU approached the MCPS system middle school science program about possible collaboration to see if curriculum units that were organized according to national standards would work in a diverse school system there was interest by the county public school system. The process of “objectification” is an important way in which diversity and standards are reconciled in local contexts. These processes of objectification are relevant to at least three areas of educational concern: (1) No Child Left Behind (2) Science Achievement and Curriculum (3) Teacher Training.
Aging of mouse eggs in vivo and in vitro.

Morphological and cytochemical (acid phosphatase) changes associated with mouse ova and cumulus cells aged within the oviducts (in vivo) or in culture (in vitro; 1–24 hours postovulation) have been investigated. Structural alterations of cumulus cells were apparent immediately after ovulation and included nuclear pycnosis and cytoplasmic vacuolization. Nevertheless, approximately 30% of the cumulus masses examined contained cells that plated out when cultured and remained viable for up t o three days in vitro. From 12 t o 24 hours postovulation almost all cumulus cells of specimens aged in vivo showed signs of degeneration. Disruption of the meiotic spindle and an increase in acid phosphatase positive organelles were characteristic of in vivo and in vitro aging ova. The percentage of fragmented eggs obtained from super-ovulated (5 IU PMS followed by 5 IU HCG) mice approximately one and 24 hours postovulation was not significantly different. Eggs obtained from superovulated animals and aged in vitro for 24 hours yielded significantly more fragmented ova. Fragmented eggs were not obtained from cycling females on the morning of estrus. When such eggs were cultured in vitro for 24 hours the percent fragmentation was significantly lower than that for aged eggs obtained from super-ovulated mice. These results indicate that 1) similar morphological alterations occur among cumulus cells and eggs aged either in vitro or in vivo, 2) ova from superovulated mice do not constitute a homogeneous population and 3) the method of superovulation employed in this study induces the ovulation of a relatively large group of eggs that are susceptible to fragmentation when cultured in vitro.
Analytical solutions to the linearized poisson—boltzmann equation in cylindrical coordinates for different ionic—strength distributions

Abstract For the system of a capillary membrane between two electrolyte solutions, we derive the complete analytical solution to the linearized Poisson-Boltzmann equation in cylindrical coordinates. By separating the total electric potential into a part that depends only on the axial coordinate and another part that depends on both the axial and radial coordinates, i.e., ψ(z, r) = ψ1(z) + ψ2(z, r), we obtain two independent differential equations. The equation for ψ2 is readily solved, but that for ψ1 requires explicit knowledge of the axial dependence of the ionic strength. Since this cannot be determined a priori, we write a generalized distribution that can describe virtually any monotonically increasing ionic strength. Boundary conditions in the z-direction have always been problematic for systems like the one under consideration, and we develop boundary conditions for ψ1 from a charge balance at each face of the membrane between the bulk solution and the solution within the pore. From these analytical solutions of ψ1 and ψ2, we also derive an equation for the total membrane potential of the system described.
Role of Fermi Surface and Crystal Structure in Theory of Magnetic Metals

We have investigated the magnetic ground state of metals using an idealized theory of magnetism based on the Ruderman-Kittel-Yosida indirect exchange interaction. The preliminary, but suggestive, results reported here are for simple cubic structures and spherical Fermi surface. We find that as the number of electrons is increased, ferromagnetism is replaced by two different antiferromagnetic structures before the N\'eel state is finally obtained. The first transition occurs at ${k}_{F}a\ensuremath{\sim}0.5\ensuremath{\pi}$ (${k}_{F}=\mathrm{Fermi}\mathrm{wave}\mathrm{vector}$, $a=\mathrm{lattice}\mathrm{constant}$) at which value the rapid changeover occurs, from ferromagnetism to an antiferromagnetic structure of planes of uniform magnetization, which point along alternating directions. These planes lie perpendicular to the (1, 0, 0) axis at first, then abruptly change over to the (1, 1, 0) axis at ${k}_{F}a\ensuremath{\sim}0.7\ensuremath{\pi}$. The new configuration remains the ground state until ${k}_{F}a$ is further increased to $0.85\ensuremath{\pi}$. But, at that value a final transition occurs to the N\'eel state. The N\'eel state (where every spin is surrounded by antiparallel nearest neighbors) then becomes increasingly stable and reaches maximum stability when the Fermi surface touches the zone boundary at ${k}_{F}a=\ensuremath{\pi}$. It appears from our calculations that the above-mentioned states are the only stable spiral configurations in the simple cubic lattice without the introduction of anisotropy or nonlinearity into the theory.
Is Sensitive Dependence on Initial Conditions Nature's Sensory Device?

In this letter we illustrate three methods of using nonlinear devices as sensors. We show that the sensory features of these devices is a result of sensitive dependence on parameters which we show is equivalent to sensitive dependence on initial conditions. As a result, we conjecture that sensitive dependence on initial conditions is nature’s sensory device in cases where remarkable feats of sensory perception are seen.
Impacts of HIV infection and HAART use on quality of life.

Background: Studies have shown the detrimental effect of HIV disease on quality of life (QOL). Changes in QOL related to the use of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) have been inconsistent and it is unknown how QOL after HAART compares to pre-infection levels. Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the impacts of becoming HIV infected and using HAART on QOL within individuals followed in the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study (MACS). Methods: Using the standard Medical Outcome Study SF-36 form, QOL data were collected pre-seroconversion, post-seroconversion but before HAART initiation, and after HAART initiation for 68 seroconverters. The QOL physical health summary score (PHS) and mental health summary score (MHS) were used as outcomes. The effects of HIV infection and HAART use on QOL summary scores were determined using random effects mixed linear models after controlling for possible confounders. The clinical significance of QOL change was assessed using the Cohen’s effect size method. Results: Compared to pre-seroconversion values, the PHS decreased after seroconversion (mean difference (diff) = −1.62; 95% confidence interval (CI): [−3.20, −0.03]) and after HAART initiation (diff = −4.20; 95% CI: [−5.86, −2.54]) with small to medium effect sizes. The score remained significantly lower than prior to HIV infection (diff = −6.16; 95% CI: [−8.09, −4.23]) after being on HAART for more than 4 years. The MHS did not significantly differ upon seroconversion (diff = −1.16; 95% CI: [−3.32, 1.00]). After using HAART for more than 4 years, the MHS was significantly greater than prior to HIV infection (diff = 2.93; 95% CI: [0.31, 5.55]) with a small effect size. Conclusion: The QOL of participants has been dynamic over the HIV disease course. HIV infection deteriorated physical but not mental QOL. In this group, although the PHS following HAART has remained lower than that prior to infection, HAART has enhanced mental health functioning.
Current and Potential Roles of Soil Macroinvertebrates (Earthworms, Millipedes, and Isopods) in Ecological Restoration

Soil macroinvertebrates have a considerable impact on soil functions important to the restoration process, such as decomposition; yet, soil organisms have received relatively little attention in restoration ecology in terms of their applicability as agents of restoration. Here, we review how large obligate detritivores (earthworms, millipedes, and isopods) have been used to accomplish restoration goals, assess restoration progress, and function as bioindicators. Patterns of detritivore community succession and how these communities are themselves restored during restoration of perturbed ecosystems are also discussed. We conclude with a discussion of increased utilization of these taxa in future and ongoing restoration projects as well as the outreach activities that should be associated with use of these organisms.
UV-Absorption and Silica/Titania Colloids Using a Core–Shell Approach

Metal-oxo-colloids have been prepared using tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) oligomers with titanium tetra-i-propoxide (TIP) or titanium (di-i-propoxide) bis(acetylacetonate) (TIA) precursors. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), FTIR, UV-Vis, and photoluminescence spectroscopy were used to investigate the composition, the size, and optical properties of the Si/Ti core–shell colloids. The presence of hetero-bonded silicate structure (Si–O–Ti) was indicated by FTIR spectroscopy. The size of Si/TIP system ranged from 55 to 120 nm and Si/TIA system ranged from 220 to 250 nm. The TEM data indicated that the size of colloids can be controlled by the TIP or TIA content. The Si/Ti system exhibited strong absorption in the UV-range, yet had excellent optical transmittance in the visible range. The Si/Ti systems exhibited a photoluminescence emission at 329 nm.
Absence of B lymphocytes in a horse with primary agammaglobulinemia.

Abstract The physical and functional charateristics of leukocytes of a young agammaglobulinemic horse were studied. Serum immunoglobulins were absent or severely decreased although circulating lymphocytes were present. These lymphocytes did not bear surface immunoglobulin when examined by immunofluorescent techniques. Scanning electron microscopy showed that almost all the lymphocytes of the affected horse were smooth with nonvillous surfaces, while normal animals had both smooth and villous lymphocytes. Adenosine deaminase levels in isolated peripheral blood lymphocytes were within normal ranges. The lymphocytes responded to phytohemagglutinin, concanavalin A and pokeweed mitogen, and were stimulated to proliferate upon contact with sensitizing antigen. The migration of mononuclear cells of the agammaglobulinemic horse was inhibited when in the presence of antigen. These findings suggest that the T lymphocytes of this animal were intact, while a failure in the production of B lymphocytes accounted for the immunodeficient state. This case closely resembles X-linked agammaglobulinemia and is the first report of this disease in any animal other than man.
Global patterns of human mitochondrial DNA and Y-chromosome structure are not influenced by higher migration rates of females versus males

Global-scale patterns of human population structure may be influenced by the rate of migration among populations that is nearly eight times higher for females than for males. This difference is attributed mainly to the widespread practice of patrilocality, in which women move into their mates' residences after marriage. Here we directly test this hypothesis by comparing global patterns of DNA sequence variation on the Y chromosome and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in the same panel of 389 individuals from ten populations (four from Africa and two each from Europe, Asia and Oceania). We introduce a new strategy to assay Y-chromosome variation that identifies a high density of single-nucleotide polymorphisms, allows complete sequencing of all individuals rather than relying on predetermined markers and provides direct sequence comparisons with mtDNA. We found the overall proportion of between-group variation (Phi(ST)) to be 0.334 for the Y chromosome and 0.382 for mtDNA. Genetic differentiation between populations was similar for the Y chromosome and mtDNA at all geographic scales that we tested. Although patrilocality may be important at the local scale, patterns of genetic structure on the continental and global scales are not shaped by the higher rate of migration among females than among males.
Columnar Pore Growth in n-Type 6H SiC

A hybrid columnar and dendritic porous structure has been developed in n-type 6H SiC using photoelectrochemical etching with proper control of the applied voltage and current density. The diameter of the formed columnar pores is around 200-500 nm. A possible formation mechanism due to the spatial distribution of holes and the HF concentration gradient in the pores is proposed. A self-supporting film with this morphology is a promising candidate for protein dialysis.
STUDIES ON HUMAN ANTIBODIES : IV. PURIFICATION AND PROPERTIES OF ANTI-A AND ANTI-B OBTAINED BY ABSORPTION AND ELUTION FROM INSOLUBLE BLOOD GROUP SUBSTANCES

Insoluble blood group substances prepared by copolymerization of soluble blood group substances with N-carboxy-L-leucine anhydride were used to absorb blood group antibodies from two human, high-titered anti-A sera. After the absorbants were washed free of nonspecific serum proteins, blood group antibodies were eluted either with pH 3.62 acetate buffer, or at neutral pH with monosaccharide haptens of the A or B antigenic determinants (N-acetyl-D-galactosamine or D-galactose respectively). The purified anti-A antibodies were characterized, immunoelectrophoretically, as γM-, γA-, and γG-immunoglobulins. These were further separated into γM- and γG-fractions by gel filtration or density gradient centrifugation. Both γM- and one of the two γG-antibody fractions contained K and L light chain determinants; the remaining γG-fraction was comprised, almost totally, of type K molecules. Precipitability of the purified anti-A immunoglobulins by blood group A substance varied from 43 to 89%. The agglutinating activity per unit N of the isolated γG-anti-A was found to equal, in one case, and to exceed, in the second, that of the γM-antibodies from the same individuals. The marked differences between γM- and γG-antibody fractions in quantitative hapten inhibition studies were interpreted to mean that the antibody-combining site of the isolated eluted γG-anti-A was significantly larger than that of the eluted γM-anti-A. Whether these data connote differences in combining site size between entire immunoglobulin classes in an individual serum or simply reflect the properties of highly selected antibody populations cannot be stated at present.
MR assessment of osteogenic differentiation in tissue-engineered constructs.

Bone marrow stromal cells (MSC) are a promising source of osteoprogenitor cells for bone tissue engineering. However, the population of the osteoprogenitor cells and their differentiation potentials change with the gender, age, and health of the donor. Development of a noninvasive method to assess osteogenic progression is critical for successful bone tissue regeneration. High-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (at 11.7 T, with spatial resolution of 62.5 × 62.5 µm in 500 µm slices) is used in the present study to monitor osteogenic differentiation of tissue-engineered constructs prepared by seeding human bone MSCs on gelatin sponge scaffolds. Quantitative measurements of the MR relaxation times (T1, T2) and the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) were performed for four successive weeks on control tissue constructs and constructs exposed to osteogenic differentiation medium. The T1 and T2 relaxation times and ADC were found to decrease as osteogenic progression proceeded in samples exposed to os...
NEAT-o-Games: novel mobile gaming versus modern sedentary lifestyle

The proposed demonstration is based on the work performed as part of the NEAT-o-Games project. NEAT-o-Games is a suite of games that runs on mobile terminals such as cell phones. Unlike other games, NEAT-o-Games' primary goal is to become part of people's everyday routines and attack the behavioral aspect of the sedentary lifestyle. Their main characteristic is that they are not carried out in short bouts, but are being played continuously and are interwoven in the daily routine of the players. Data from wearable accelerometers are logged wirelessly to a cell phone and control the animation of the player in a virtual race game (avatar) with other players over the cellular network. Players can use their excess of activity points earned from the race game to get hints in mental games of the suite, like Sudoku. Initial studies indicate that NEAT-o-Games may bring a positive physical, psychological, and social impact on players.
Self-complementary totally symmetric plane partitions

Abstract A totally symmetric plane partition of size n is a plane partition whose three-dimensional Ferrers graph is contained in the box X n = [1, n ] × [1, n ] × [1, n ] and which is mapped to itself under all permutations of the coordinate axes. The complement of the Ferrers graph of such a plane partition (that is, the set of lattice points in the box X n that do not belong to the Ferrers graph) is again totally symmetric when viewed from the vantage point of the vertex ( n + 1, n + 1, n + 1). A totally symmetric plane partition is self-complementary if it is congruent (in the geometrical sense) to its complement. This cannot occur unless n = 2 m is even. In this paper we give several conjectures and a few theorems concerning self-complementary totally symmetric plane partitions. In particular we describe evidence which indicates a close relationship with m by m alternating sign matrices. In an earlier paper we described the close connection between m by m alternating sign matrices and descending plane partitions with no parts exceeding m . We are thus left with three classes of objects which are all apparently interrelated. There remain many unsolved problems, the simplest of which is to prove that any two of the objects have the same cardinality.
Rhythmic and light-induced changes in levels of pineal 5-hydroxyindoles in the pigeon (Columba livia)

Pineal 5-hydroxy- and 5-methoxyindoles of domestic pigeons were measured by differential extractions and spectrofluorometry. The daily rhythms in pineal 5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin or 5-HT) and related indoles and in pineal 5-hydroxyindole-3-acetic acid (5-HIAA) were described in birds artificially lighted from 04:00 to 18:00. The 5-HT level was lowest at midnight (46.5 ng/pineal) and rose to a maximum of 283.9 ng/pineal at 04:30. This was immediately followed by a 50% decrease; and following the start of darkness an additional drop of 35% occurred. A different rhythm and much lower pineal content of 5-HIAA was found. 5-Hydroxytryptophan and 5-methoxyindole-3-acetic acid were too low in amount for measurement, and a melatonin fraction was too low and variable to provide evidence of a daily rhythm. Experimental changes in the timing of light and darkness showed that: (1) precocious morning rise in 5-HT could be caused by early onset of light, and possibly as well by early start of darkness during the previous evening; (2) delayed start of light did not inhibit the early morning rise; (3) continuation of light through the evening inhibited the usual nocturnal decline in 5-HT. Thus, primary phases in the daily rhythm in pineal 5-HT can be triggered in part by light and darkness. It was shown also that the morning peak in 5-HT could be increased and retained by prior injection of 5-hydroxytryptophan and a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (beta-phenylisopropylhydrazine).
Optic neuropathy associated with penicillamine therapy in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis

Optic neuropathy developed in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis who had been receiving D-penicillamine for about 1 year. An associated finding included a 2+ positive antinuclear antibody test with a titer of 1:320. Optic disc swelling was resolved on high doses of intravenous steroids. The case resembles two previously reported cases of optic neuropathy which occurred in patients with Wilson's disease who were receiving penicillamine.
Recall and anticipation methods in probabilistic associative learning1

Six S-R1 S-R2 modified paired-associates were presented for 60 trials. A 2 by 6 factorial design was employed in which method, recall or anticipation, and the S-R1, S-R2 probability-ratio were varied. The S-R1 S-R2 ratios were: 1.00-0.00, .90-.10, 80-.20, .70-30. .60-.40, and .50-.50. The results indicated that the recall procedure yielded superior performance in early acquisition. In later stages, recall yielded results approaching matching, whereas the anticipation procedure yielded overmatching of Rt anticipations and undermatching of R2 anticipations. The results were interpreted as showing that as probability-ratio varies from .50-.50 to 1.00-0.00, and hence, as the relative difference of response strengths of S-R1, and S-R2 increases, the selection factor in the anticipation procedure yields a heavy weighting of the stronger response, R,, and the acquisition of the weaker association, S-R2, occurs slowly; for the recall paradigm, however, the data suggest that R1, is inhibited and S-R2 is more readily acquired. The results also were interpreted as showing that one difference in the standard paired-associate recall and anticipation paradigms is that in the recall method. strong error tendencies may be inhibited, but in the anticipation method, strong error tendencies are weighted heavily.
Environment sensing and response mediated by ABC transporters

Transporter proteins are one of an organism’s primary interfaces with the environment. The expressed set of transporters mediates cellular metabolic capabilities and influences signal transduction pathways and regulatory networks. The functional annotation of most transporters is currently limited to general classification into families. The development of capabilities to map ligands with specific transporters would improve our knowledge of the function of these proteins, improve the annotation of related genomes, and facilitate predictions for their role in cellular responses to environmental changes. To improve the utility of the functional annotation for ABC transporters, we expressed and purified the set of solute binding proteins from Rhodopseudomonas palustris and characterized their ligand-binding specificity. Our approach utilized ligand libraries consisting of environmental and cellular metabolic compounds, and fluorescence thermal shift based high throughput ligand binding screens. This process resulted in the identification of specific binding ligands for approximately 64% of the purified and screened proteins. The collection of binding ligands is representative of common functionalities associated with many bacterial organisms as well as specific capabilities linked to the ecological niche occupied by R. palustris. The functional screen identified specific ligands that bound to ABC transporter periplasmic binding subunits from R. palustris. These assignments provide unique insight for the metabolic capabilities of this organism and are consistent with the ecological niche of strain isolation. This functional insight can be used to improve the annotation of related organisms and provides a route to evaluate the evolution of this important and diverse group of transporter proteins.
Careers in the Performing Arts: A Psychological Perspective

The history of creativity research reveals extensive studies of the members of occupational groups noted for creative productivity. Much less attention has been paid to performing artists for whom interpretive skill rather than strictly original output constitutes the core of their professional activity. The similarities and differences between athletes and performing artists are considered, with special attention given to the distinctive memory requirements of the performing arts. A review of relevant personality research in the field points to uncertainty as to whether particular personality traits are antecedents or consequents of participation in the performing arts. Much weight is assigned to early socialization experience and motivational patterns that influence career choice and sustained commitment. The article concludes with a generic working model of the life span that considers intrinsic and extrinsic determinants contributing to eventual failure or success in this highly competitive domain.
Spatial differences of neuronal cell proliferation after focal ischemia: Neurogenesis is enhanced in dentate gyrus, but suppressed in the subventricular zone:

Contrary to previous beliefs, the brain has a potential to regenerate itself. Neurogenesis, i.e. the cell division of neuronal precursor cells in the adult brain, and their subsequent differentiation to neurons, has been observed particularly in two areas of the brain, the subgranular zone [SGZ] of the dentate gyrus and the subventricular zone [SVZ] 1. Neurogenesis appears to be stimulated by various noxious insults, e.g. ischemia, seizures, suggesting that it is part of an endogenous repair mechanism of the brain. However, stress, e.g. inflammation, radiation, can also disrupt neurogenesis 2, 3, and the overall significance of the phenomenon in relation to brain damage remains unclear. We investigated the differential effects of a well defined focal ischemic insult on neurogenesis in two remote germinal areas of murine brains.
The Meta-Analysis Effect Size Calculator: A Basic Program for Reconstructing Unbiased Effect Sizes:

The Meta-Analysis Effect Size Calculator provides the user with many different ways to calculate an effect size depending on the information available in the original research report. In addition, the program computes an unbiased estimate of effect size.
The microwave spectrum of tetrazole

Abstract Microwave spectra of tetrazole and the two singly deuterated tetrazole species have been assigned. Dipole moment measurements suggest that the tautomeric form observed in normal tetrazole and N-deuteriotetrazole is 2 H -tetrazole while that observed in C-deuteriotetrazole is 1 H -tetrazole. All three species are planar.
The geometry of nonlinear Schro¨dinger standing waves: pure power nonlinearities

Abstract A numerical method to study radially symmetric standing wave solutions (with arbitrarily large number of nodes) to the nonlinear Schrodinger equation is described and used to study several new geometric features of these waves. The method is based on numerically locating the basin boundary (separating surface) between two attracting invariant lines in phase space. Each solution trajectory lies on the basin boundary, and is computed by ‘squeezing’ it between two adjacent asymptotically stable trajectories. Of particular interest is the asymptotic distribution of the eigenvalues and the conserved quantities, which follow power law behavior. Also of interest is the geometry of the basin boundary, which shows that the solution with a prescribed number of zeroes is unique.
Solid-Phase Determination of Glucose in Whole Blood

Abstract A solid-phase determination of glucose in whole blood has been developed that employs an immobilized substrate and aqueous enzymes. A phenol, 3-hydroxyphenylacetic acid, was covalently bonded to micron-size porous glass beads, and the derivatized beads were reacted with the oxidized form of horseradish peroxidase and 4-aminoantipyrine to give a surface-bound, red quinoneimine dye. The surface color was quantitatively determined by diffuse reflectance spectrophotometry. Hydrogen peroxide, which oxidizes the enzyme, was determined with a linear range of 10 to 200 μM and a standard deviation of ±10 μM. Samples containing glucose were treated with glucose oxidase to convert the glucose to hydrogen peroxide. Glucose standards showed a linear range of 50 to 200 mg/dL and a standard deviation of ±9 mg/dL. Results for control sera were in good agreement with values obtained by the usual aqueous method. After correcting for the blood hematocrit, glucose concentrations found for paired plasma and whole blo...
De novo 13q partial duplication identified by cytogenetic, biochemical and molecular approaches

A 3.5-month-old female infant manifesting dysmorphic facies, developmental delay and failure to thrive was referred for cytogenetic evaluation. Peripheral lymphocytes revealed three chromosomally distinct cell lines: 46,XX/46,XX,10p+/47,XX,10p+,+mar. Dermal fibroblasts revealed only the 46,XX,10p+cell line. High resolution G-, R-, and Q-banding suggested that the extra chromosomal material (10p+) represented a duplication of the segment 13q14----13qter. Parental karyotypes were normal. As absolute identification of de novo chromosomal abnormalities, based solely on cytogenetic studies, is sometimes difficult, both biochemical and molecular approaches were undertaken to elucidate this abnormality in more detail. Dosage effects were examined using esterase D (localized to 13q14.1) and the DNA probes p1E8 and p9A7 (localized to 13q22 and 13q31/32, respectively). These studies suggested the presence of only 2 copies of esterase D, but 3 copies of both DNA probes, allowing identification of the breakpoint at 13q14.2.
Digital Image Restoration - Survey

The state of the art in large scale digital computers has recently opened the way for high resolution image processing by digital techniques. With the increasing availability of digital image input/output devices it is becoming quite feasible for the average computing facility to embark upon high quality image restoration and enhancement. The motivation for such processes becomes self evident when one realizes the tremendous emphasis man puts on his visual senses for survival. Considering the relative success achieved in one dimensional (usually time) signal processing, it is to be expected that far greater strides could be made in the visual two dimensional realm of signal processing.© (1975) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Accelerated Substrate Cycling of Fructose-6-phosphate in the Muscle of Malignant Hyperthermic Pigs

THE syndrome of malignant hyperthermia can be induced in susceptible humans1 and pigs by a variety of agents, such as halothane2 and succinyl choline3. In swine, the syndrome is well documented4–6 and its onset is characterized by a sharp rise in body temperature which is often associated with muscle rigor. One of the most interesting biochemical responses in hyperthermia is the progressive loss of muscle ATP7 and/or creatine phosphate8 and the concomitant accumulation of Pi in the blood5.
Investigation of the System CaO‐MgO‐V2O5: II, Crystalline Solutions and Crystal Chemistry

The extent of the crystalline solutions in the system CaO-MgO-V2Os was studied quantitatively by the determination of lattice parameters. Metavanadate solutions existed along the length of the CV-MV join, while the defect garnet solutions occurred at 29 to 32 mol% MgO on the orthovanadate join. The addition of solute ions created structural changes in the directions of the polyhedral layers (a- and c-axis directions). Little change was reflected in the direction of polyhedral chains (b-axis direction). The amount of solute allowed into the host lattices was structurally limited due to the significant differences in size between Mg2+ and Ca2+.
Trace Amine-Associated Receptor 1 Displays Species-Dependent Stereoselectivity for Isomers of Methamphetamine, Amphetamine, and Para-Hydroxyamphetamine

The synthetic amines methamphetamine (METH), amphetamine (AMPH), and their metabolite para-hydroxyamphetamine (POHA) are chemically and structurally related to the catecholamine neurotransmitters and a small group of endogenous biogenic amines collectively referred to as the trace amines (TAs). Recently, it was reported that METH, AMPH, POHA, and the TAs para-tyramine (TYR) and beta-phenylethylamine (PEA) stimulate cAMP production in human embryonic kidney (HEK)-293 cells expressing rat trace amine-associated receptor 1 (rTAAR1). The discovery that METH and AMPH activate the rTAAR1 motivated us to study the effect of these drugs on the mouse TAAR1 (mTAAR1) and a human-rat chimera (hrChTAAR1). Furthermore, because S-(+)-isomers of METH and AMPH are reported to be more potent and efficacious in vivo than R-(-), we determined the enantiomeric selectivity of all three species of TAAR1. In response to METH, AMPH, or POHA exposure, the accumulation of cAMP by HEK-293 cells stably expressing different species of TAAR1 was concentration- and isomer-dependent. EC50 values for S-(+)-METH were 0.89, 0.92, and 4.44 microM for rTAAR1, mTAAR1, and h-rChTAAR1, respectively. PEA was a potent and full agonist at each species of TAAR1, whereas TYR was a full agonist for the rodent TAAR1s but was a partial agonist at h-rChTAAR1. Interestingly, both isomers of METH were full agonists at mTAAR1 and h-rChTAAR1, whereas both were partial agonists at rTAAR1. Taken together, these in vitro results suggest that, in vivo, TAAR1 could be a novel mediator of the effects of these drugs.
Middles and Reflexivity

This article investigates the argument structure of middle predicates. It argues that middle verbs syntactically project the entire argument grids of their active counterparts; however, middle verbs, like passive verbs, project the external (Agent) arguments of their active counterparts as adjuncts. These demoted Agent arguments can appear, in middle constructions, as the objects of for-PPs.
KNOX Lost the OX: The Arabidopsis KNATM Gene Defines a Novel Class of KNOX Transcriptional Regulators Missing the Homeodomain

Three amino acid loop extension (TALE) homeodomain transcriptional regulators play a central role in plant and animal developmental programs. Plant KNOTTED1-like homeobox (KNOX) and animal Myeloid ecotropic viral integration site (MEIS) proteins share a TALE homeodomain and a MEINOX (MEIS-KNOX) domain, suggesting that an ancestral MEINOX-TALE protein predates the divergence of plants from fungi and animals. In this study, we identify and characterize the Arabidopsis thaliana KNATM gene, which encodes a MEINOX domain but not a homeodomain. Phylogenetic analysis of the KNOX family places KNATM in a new class and shows conservation in dicotyledons. We demonstrate that KNATM selectively interacts with Arabidopsis BELL TALE proteins through the MEINOX domain. The homeodomain is known to be necessary for KNOX-KNOX interaction. On the contrary, KNATM specifically dimerizes with the KNOX protein BREVIPEDICELLUS through an acidic coiled-coil domain. KNATM is expressed in proximal-lateral domains of organ primordia and at the boundary of mature organs; in accordance, genetic analyses identify a function for KNATM in leaf proximal-distal patterning. In vivo domain analyses highlighted KNATM functional regions and revealed a role as transcriptional regulator. Taken together, our data reveal a homeodomain-independent mechanism of KNOX dimerization and transcriptional regulation.