cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Acute effects of argon laser on human atherosclerotic plaque

Abstract Although the laser has been demonstrated to vaporize coronary artery plaque, there is little information about its ability to resect or vaporize the range of plaques present in peripheral vessels. This study attempts to determine the ability of the argon laser to resect all grades of atherosclerotic plaque, the risk of perforation during plaque resection, the effects on surrounding arteries, and the effect of different transmission media (air, saline solution, and blood) on the delivery of laser energy to the vessel. Seventy-five adult human cadaveric aortic specimens with a range of atherosclerosis from grossly normal artery to extensive calcification with ulceration were exposed to variable energy densities (200 to >20,000 J/cm 2 ) within 48 hours of harvesting. Specimens were examined grossly for the visual effects of laser and microscopically after preparation with hematoxylin-eosin, trichrome, and/or Verhoeff's elastin stains. Our results indicate that normal arteries and noncalcified plaques absorb laser energy and are vaporized. As the atherosclerosis becomes more complex with calcification, calcified regions are not vaporized and cannot be resected. In normal arteries and noncalcified plaque, perforation times were less than 5 seconds. Where palpable calcification was present in atherosclerotic lesions, average perforation time was doubled. In some vessels areas of calcification prevented wall perforation, but areas of subintimal hemorrhage perforated rapidly because of the selective absorption of laser energy by the red color of hemorrhagic tissue. These results remain the same when saline solution is used as a transmission media, although the amount of energy required to achieve the effects is increased. A blood medium absorbs most of the energy and markedly delays the resection of the plaque and perforation of the artery. Our experience indicates that the use of the argon laser, in an air or saline medium, has potential for the resection of noncalcified atherosclerotic plaques. Effects on the atherosclerotic vessel wall become less predictable as the plaque becomes heterogeneous with calcification and hemorrhage. (J VASC SURG 1984;1:852-859.)
Coherent data alignment and baseline calibration for improved two-pass interferometric synthetic aperture radar

Currently, two principal operation modes are utilized by interferometric synthetic aperture radar (IFSAR) systems for data collection. The first mode is a one-antenna, two-pass IFSAR operation mode, where the aircraft platform possesses a single antenna and flies by the scene of interest twice collecting data. The two-antenna, one-pass IFSAR operation mode is the second mode, in which the aircraft platform possesses two antennas and flies by the scene of interest once while collecting data. Each one of these IFSAR operation modes possesses certain strengths and weaknesses. The one-antenna, two-pass mode allows for large baselines but suffers from imprecise knowledge of the baseline length, and consequently does not possess accurate target height scaling. Alternatively, the two-antenna, one-pass mode allows for precise knowledge of baseline length, but often at the expense of a limited baseline length, and consequently suffers from increased height noise. We describe an innovative IFSAR operation mode for overcoming these weaknesses by combining the two current IFSAR operation modes into a new two-antenna, two-pass IFSAR operation mode. By accurately estimating the antenna baseline between the two flight passes from the data itself, target height scaling accuracies are improved to the equivalent of a two-antenna, one-pass IFSAR system with the height-noise performance commensurate with the larger baseline. This, in turn, allows for more accurate information about target ground position locations and heights.
An iterative method for the solution of ill-posed parabolic systems

This note is concerned with the identification of the unknown initial condition for a parabolic system. It introduces an iterative algorithm that can be used to recover the initial condition. The algorithm assumes a function for the unknown initial condition and obtains a background field. It then obtains the error dynamics. The error dynamics is also ill-posed in the sense that the initial condition is unknown. Using the measurements obtained at the boundaries, the algorithm introduces two formulations for the error dynamics. These two formulations share the same initial condition. By equating the responses of these two formulations it is then possible to obtain an equation for the unknown initial condition. A number of numerical examples are also used to study the performance of the algorithm.
The use of second-generation thrombopoietic agents for chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia.

Purpose of review This review summarizes the history of the development of thrombopoietic agents and discusses their potential use in chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia. Recent findings A new generation of thrombopoietic agents have had preliminary success in the treatment of thrombocytopenia. The initial thrombopoietic agents were recombinant and pegylated human megakaryocyte growth factor. These agents showed promise in the treatment of chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia but had the unfortunate side effect of promoting the development of antibodies against endogenous thrombopoietin and subsequent refractory thrombocytopenia. Now, a second generation of synthetic thrombopoietic agents including AMG 531 and eltrombopag have shown promise in the treatment of thrombocytopenia in patients with immune thrombocytopenia purpura and hepatitis C without the development of an immunological response. As these new agents see broader use, many questions regarding their safety and their most effective administration need to be answered. Summary The second generation of thrombopoietic agents has been shown to correct thrombocytopenia in selected diseases with a minimum of side effects. Looking forward, there is great potential for their use in other forms of thrombocytopenia, including chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia, but there are also many questions remaining regarding their best and safest use.
Monitoring biosensor capture efficiencies: development of a model using GFP-expressing Escherichia coli O157:H7.

Abstract One of the known limitations for biosensor assays is the high limit of detection for target cells within complex samples (e.g., Escherichia coli at 10 4 to 10 5 CFU/mL) due to poor capture efficiencies. Currently, researchers can only estimate the cell capture efficiency necessary to produce a positive signal for any type of biosensor using either cumbersome techniques or regression modeling. To solve this problem, green fluorescent protein (GFP) transformed E. coli O157:H7 was used to develop a novel method for directly and easily measuring the cell capture efficiency of any given biosensor platform. For demonstration purposes, E. coli -GFP was assayed on both fiber optic and planar waveguide biosensor platforms. Cells were enumerated using an epifluorescent microscope and digital camera to determine the number of cells captured on the surfaces. Conversion algorithms were used with these digital images to determine the cell density of entire waveguide surface areas. For E. coli -GFP, the range of cell capture efficiency was between 0.4 and 1.2%. This indicates that although the developed model works for calculating cell capture, there is still need for significant improvements in capture methods themselves, to increase the capture efficiency and thereby lower detection limits. The use of GFP-transformed target cells and cell capture efficiency calculations can facilitate the development and optimization processes by allowing direct enumeration of new biosensor design configurations and sample processing strategies.
Masking materials for 157-nm lithography

Constraints of the photomask are beginning to play dominate roles in the advancement of new microlithographic technology. Mask substrate materials are being explored by several groups. In this work, we explore the thin film masking layers themselves and identify potential solutions for binary and phase-shift masking films for use at 157 nm. The chromium based absorbing films used for binary masking are likely to meet the required needs. Modification of the composition will be required. Attenuated phase shift masking films become challenging as few transparent host thin film materials exist at the 157 nm wavelength.
A failure tolerant power subsystem for outer planet spacecraft

Spacecraft electrical power subsystems require continuous monitoring, ground supported analysis of performance, and ground intervention to provide power management and fault correction. An interplanetary fly-by mission to the outer planets necessitates long periods of relatively low activity between encounters. It would be desirable to minimize ground access and support during these times if it can be shown that power management and fault removal functions can be implemented economically and reliably within the power subsystem flight equipment. This paper describes the interim results of a study to develop the techniques and implementation methods to provide a power subsystem capable of autonomous fault correction and power management. Each subsystem element is analyzed to define failure modes and failure characteristics which permit identification of fault correction methods. Fault protection concepts for each classification of loads are formulated to provide a high probability of delivering power to the load yet protect the power subsystem in the event of a load fault. The Mariner Jupiter/Saturn power subsystem elements formed the baseline for this study.
The Human Papillomavirus Type 11 E1∧E4 Protein Is Phosphorylated in Genital Epithelium

Abstract The most abundant viral transcript in human papillomavirus (HPV) 11-infected xenograft tissue has been shown to encode the E1 ∧ E4 protein. The function of E1 ∧ E4 protein has not been determined. Several potential phosphorylation sequence motifs were identified in the HPV 11 E1 ∧ E4 protein, including potential sites of phosphorylation by mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA), casein kinase II, and protein kinase C. To test phosphorylation of the HPV 11 E1 ∧ E4 protein, a soluble maltose binding protein (MBP) fusion was produced in Escherichia coli. Only MAPK and PKA phosphorylated the E1 ∧ E4 protein. Phosphoamino acid analysis showed that one or more threonine residues were phosphorylated by MAPK, and both serine and threonine residues were phosphorylated by PKA. MBP–E1 ∧ E4 mutant proteins were designed to delineate the E1 ∧ E4 phosphoacceptor residues. MAPK was shown to phosphorylate E1 ∧ E4 on threonine 53 within a MAPK consensus phorphorylation sequence motif. PKA was shown to phosphorylate E1 ∧ E4 at two residues: threonine 36 within a consensus motif and serine 44 within a variant of the PKA consensus phosphorylation sequence motif. HPV 11-infected human genital tissue grown as a xenograft in an athymic mouse was labeled with [ 32 P]orthophosphate. Phosphoamino acid analysis of E1 ∧ E4 protein immunoprecipitated from 32 P-labeled tissue revealed that both serine and threonine residues were phosphorylated. Analysis by liquid chromatography–mass spectrophotometry was consistent with phosphorylation of residues within the PKA and MAPK phosphorylation sequence motifs. Expression of E1 ∧ E4 protein containing phosphorylation substitution mutations showed that the PKA mutant did not differ from wild-type E1 ∧ E4 protein in intracellular distribution. In contrast, the MAPK mutant did not localize exclusively to the cytoplasm nor did it colocalize with wild-type E1 ∧ E4 protein. We conclude that HPV 11 E1 ∧ E4 protein is phosphorylated in vitro and in vivo. Our data are consistent with phosphorylation of HPV 11 E1 ∧ E4 protein by MAPK and PKA in infected tissue.
Evolved gas analysis by mass spectrometry: A review

Revue des methodes d'analyse thermique gazeuse par spectrometrie de masse. Applications selectionnees
Randomized trial of mycophenolate mofetil versus enteric-coated mycophenolate sodium in primary renal transplantation with tacrolimus and steroid avoidance: four-year analysis.

Background. Our single-center, open-labeled randomized trial of 150 adult, primary kidney transplant recipients receiving 2 g mycophenolate mofetil (group A, n = 75) versus 1.440 g enteric-coated mycophenolate sodium (group B, n=75), with reduced maintenance tacrolimus dosing, steroid elimination at 1 week, and combined rabbit antithymocyte globulin/daclizumab induction, previously showed at 1 year posttransplant low biopsy-proven acute rejection (BPAR), acceptably high renal function, and no differences in incidence of symptomatic gastrointestinal (GI) side effects between the two groups. This report includes 3 additional years of follow-up with similar endpoints as in the original study. Methods. Rates of developing first BPAR, graft failure (death censored and uncensored), death, and adverse events (GI toxicity, infections requiring hospitalization, and new onset diabetes mellitus after transplantation) during the first 48 months posttransplant were compared between the two groups using an intent-to-treat approach. Results. At 48 months posttransplant, patient/graft survival in groups A and B was 97%/90% vs. 96%/86%, respectively (not significant [NS]). Twenty-seven patients experienced BPAR (including borderline), with actuarial 19% (14/75) vs. 18% (13/75) in groups A and B, respectively (NS). Geometric mean * /standard error serum creatinine level and arithmetic mean calculated glomerular filtration rate (±standard error) at 48 months in groups A and B, respectively, were 1.25*/1.06 and 69.2 ±3.9 vs. 1.20*/1.05 and 71.2±3.2 (NS). Incidence of new onset diabetes mellitus after transplantation (22% vs. 15%), infections requiring hospitalization (31% vs. 39%), and GI side effects (45% vs. 52%) seemed equivalent. Conclusions. This is the first long-term, randomized trial comparing enteric-coated mycophenolate sodium versus mycophenolate mofetil along with reduced maintenance tacrolimus dosing and steroid avoidance, which resulted in similarly low-BPAR rates, acceptably high renal function at 48 months, and an equivalent side effect profile.
Developmental changes in subcellular AMPA/GluR receptor populations in rat forebrain.

Abstract Forebrains from rats of postnatal days (PND) 2, 7, 14, 21, and 30–40 were subjected to subcellular fractionation and samples from crude mitochondrial (P2, which contain synaptic plasma membranes) and microsomal (P3) fractions were used for SDS-PAGE and Western blotting with antibodies against GluR1, and GluR2/3 subunits of AMPA/GluR receptors. GluR immunoreactivity in P2 fractions increased gradually from PND 2 to PND 30. In contrast, GluR immunoreactivity in P3 fractions increased sharply at early postnatal ages, and was higher than in adults as early as at PND 7. Data were compared to postnatal changes in 3 H -AMPA binding reported in various studies. Significant correlations were observed between changes in GluR immunoreactivity in P3 fractions and changes in high-affinity binding on one hand and between changes in GluR immunoreactivity in P2 fractions, and changes in low affinity binding. These data further establish that glutamate receptors present in different subcellular compartments represent different maturational states of the receptors, and suggest that changes in GluR populations could participate in mechanisms of synaptic plasticity.
Interrelationships of spontaneous growth hormone axis activity, body fat, and serum lipids in healthy elderly women and men.

Aging is associated with decreased growth hormone (GH) secretion and plasma insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) levels, increased total and abdominal fat, total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides, and reduced high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Similar changes in lipids and body composition occur in nonelderly GH-deficient adults and are reversed with GH administration. To examine whether GHIGF-1 axis function in the elderly is related to the lipid profile independently of body fat, we evaluated GH secretion, serum IGF-I and IGF binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) levels, adiposity via the body mass index (BMI), waist to hip ratio (WHR), dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and circulating lipids in 101 healthy subjects older than 65 years. Integrated nocturnal GH secretion (log IAUPGH) was inversely related (P < .005) to DEXA total and abdominal fat and MRI visceral fat in both genders. Log IAUPGH was inversely related to visceral fat in women (P < .005) and men (P < .0001), but was not significantly related to total fat in either gender. In women, log IAUPGH was related inversely to total and LDL cholesterol and positively to HDL choleterol (P < .008). In men, log IAUPGH was inversely to total cholesterol and triglycerides (P < .005). In women, HDL cholesterol was inversely related to the WHR (P < .005). In men, triglycerides were positively relaed (P < .001) to the WHR and DEXA abdominal and MRI visceral fat. Multivariate regression revealed log IAUPGH, but not DEXA total body fat, to be an Independent determinant of total (P < .001 for women and P = .01 for men) and LDL (P < .007 and P = .05) cholesterol in both sexes and of HDL cholesterol (P < .005) and triglycerides (P < .03) in women. Log IAUPGH, but not DEXA abdominal fat, related to total (P < .005 and P < .03) and LDL (P < .03 and P = .05) cholesterol in both genders and to HDL in women (P < .05). Log IAUPGH, but not MRI visceral fat, was related to total cholesterol (P < .03 and P = .05) in women and men. Age, IGF-I, and IGFBP-3 were not significantly related to any body fat or lipid measures, except for a positive corelation of IGF-I with triglycerides in men. Thus, endogenous nocturnal GH secretion predicts total, LDL, and HDL cholesterol levels independently of total or abdominal fat, suggesting that it is an independent cardiometabolic risk factor in healthy elderly people.
Vibronic structure and ion core interactions in Rydberg states of diazomethane: an experimental and theoretical investigation.

Vibronic transitions to the 21A2(3py ← π) Rydberg state of CH2N2, CD2N2, and CHDN2 were recorded by 2 + 1 REMPI spectroscopy, and kinetic energy distributions (eKE) of photoelectrons from ionization of selected vibronic levels were determined by velocity map imaging. Normal-mode frequencies were obtained for the 21A2(3py) Rydberg state and for the cation. Mixed levels of the 21A2(3py) and 21B1(3pz) of the three isotopologs were identified by photoelectron imaging and analyzed. The equilibrium geometries and harmonic vibrational frequencies of the electronic states of neutral diazomethane were calculated by CCSD(T)/cc-pVTZ, and B3LYP/6-311G(2df,p). The latter method was also used to calculate isotope shifts for the ground-state neutral and cation. Geometry and frequencies of the ground state of the cation were calculated by CCSD(T)/cc-pVTZ, using the unrestricted (UHF) reference. The equilibrium structures, frequencies, and isotope shifts of the 21A2(3py) and 21B1(3pz) Rydberg states were calculated by EOM...
EVALUATION OF A PROTEIN CONCENTRATE PRODUCED FROM GLANDLESS COTTONSEED FLOUR BY A WET-EXTRACTION PROCESS

Wet-extracted concentrate spray dried at two pH levels was evaluated for use in protein-fortified bread and as a component in meat loaf to reduce juice and fat cook-out during baking and to reduce meat requirement. Bread loaves containing air-classified glandless cone, 100% wheat flour and LCP glanded flour were significantly larger in volume than loaves from other blends, but there was no real difference among loaf volume of breads containing these three treatments. pH of spray drying had a marked effect on baking properties of the wet-process cone; pH 4.5 yielded a poor quality loaf while pH 6.8 loaf volume was equal to bread containing glandless cottonseed flours. Taste panel evaluations showed meat loaves containing 25% wet-extracted protein concentrate to be quite acceptable: milder or more bland than all-meat loaves and somewhat softer or smoother in texture.
Nondestructive Measurement of Carotenoids in Plant Tissues by Fluorescence Quenching

Carotenoids, compounds valuable for their antioxidant properties in humans and animals, are sometimes present in the bran layers of rice (Oryza sativa L.). We developed a nondestructive technique to screen individual rice kernels for the presence of carotenoids in their bran for genetic selection of the carotenoid-containing lines. Most plant tissues are highly autofluorescent. Carotenoids have a high absorptivity for visible light, which allows them to absorb or quench this natural fluorescence. Synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy provides the specificity and sensitivity that allows detection of the changes in fluorescence in a single rice kernel that occur when carotenoids are present. The fluorescence quenching technique identified three rice lines as having carotenoids present in the bran, and three other lines as being carotenoid-deficient. Fluorescence quenching was also used to monitor changes in carotenoid levels in living plants and enabled the measurement of carotenoids within the different colors of a variegated leaf.
Rainbow trout leukocyte culture: a simplified method.

The addition of 10% fetal bovine serum to Leibovitz’s L-15 culture medium resulted in marked growth of peripheral blood leukocytes from rainbow trout,Salmo gairdneri. Culture medium without serum or with 20% homologous serum did not induce substantial growth. In contrast to what has been reported by others, oxygenation of the culture medium was found not to be required for excellent cell growth.
SENSORY ATTRIBUTES AND THIAMINE CONTENT OF ROASTING CHICKENS COOKED IN A MICROWAVE, CONVECTION MICROWAVE AND CONVENTIONAL ELECTRIC OVEN

Fresh whole roasting chickens were cooked to an internal temperature of 79°C (175°F) in either a microwave, convection microwave or conventional electric oven. The sensory attributes of breast meat samples from chickens cooked in the three ovens were evaluated by untrained and laboratory panels. Untrained panelists found convection microwave cooked samples to be more acceptable in terms of juiciness than microwave cooked samples. Laboratory panelists rated the chicken cooked in the conventional oven as significantly more tender and juicy but similar in flavor intensity to chicken cooked in the microwave ovens. Thiamine retention on a dry weight basis ranged from 77% in conventionally cooked chicken breasts to 98% in microwave cooked chicken legs.
Trends in kidney transplant outcomes in older adults.

Objectives: To estimate mortality and death-censored graft loss according to year of kidney transplant (KT) between 1990 and 2011. Design: Cohort study. Setting: The Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients (SRTR). Participants: KT recipients aged 65 and older at the time of transplantation (N = 30,207). Measurements: Mortality and death-censored graft loss ascertained through center report and linkage to Social Security Death Master File and to Medicare. Results: Older adults currently account for 18.4% of KT recipients, up from 3.4% in 1990; similar increases were noted for deceased donor (5.4 times percentage increase) and live donor (9.1 times percentage increase) transplants. Current recipients are not only older, but also more likely to be female and African American, have lengthier pretransplant dialysis, have diabetes mellitus or hypertension, and receive marginal kidneys. Mortality for older deceased donor recipients between 2009 and 2011 was 57% lower (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.43, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.33–0.56, P < .001) than between 1990 and 1993; mortality for older live donor recipients was 50% lower (HR = 0.50, 95% CI = 0.36–0.68, P < .001). Death-censored graft loss for older deceased donor recipients between 2009 and 2011 was 65% lower (HR = 0.35, 95% CI = 0.29–0.42, P < .001) than between 1990 and 1993; death-censored graft loss for older live donor recipients was 59% lower (HR = 0.41, 95% CI = 0.24–0.70, P < .001). Conclusion: Despite a major increase in number of older adults transplanted and an expanding window of transplant eligibility, mortality and graft loss have decreased substantially for this recipient population. These trends are important to understand for patient counseling and transplant referral.
Hot pressing of polycrystals of high-pressure phases of mantle minerals in multi-anvil apparatus

In the 1960s, E. Schreiber and his colleagues pioneered the use of hot-pressed polycrystalline aggregates for studies of the pressure and temperature dependence of the elastic wave velocities in minerals. We have extended this work to the high-pressure polymorphs of mantle minerals by developing techniques to fabricate large polycrystalline specimens in a 2000-ton uniaxial split-sphere apparatus. A new cell assembly has been developed to extend this capability to pressures of 20 GPa and temperatures of 1700°C. Key elements in the new experimental design include: a telescopic LaCrO3 forT>1200°C; Toshiba Tungaloy grade F tungsten carbide anvils; and the use of homogeneous glasses or seeded powder mixtures as starting material to enhance reactivity and maximize densities. Cell temperatures are linearly related to electrical power to 1700°C and uniform throughout the 3 mm specimens. Pressure calibrations at 25°C and 1700°C are identical to 15 GPa. Cylindrical specimens of the beta and spinel phases of Mg2SiO4, stishovite (SiO2-rutile), and majorite-pyrope garnets have been synthesized within their stability fields in runs of 1–4 hr duration and recovered at ambient conditions by simultaneously decompressing and cooling along a computer-controlledP-T path designed to preserve the high-pressure phase and to relax intergranualar stress in the polycrystalline aggregate. These specimens are single-phased, fine-grained (<5 micron), free of microcracks and preferred orientation, and have bulk densities greater than 99% of X-ray density. The successful fabrication of these high-quality polycrystalline specimens has made possible experiments to determine the pressure dependence of acoustic velocities in the ultrasonics laboratory of S. M. Rigden and I. Jackson at the Australian National University.
Threshold and suprathreshold spatiotemporal response throughout adulthood

The effect of age on spatiotemporal contrast sensitivity at both threshold and suprathreshold levels was studied in 63 adults ranging in age from 13 to 67 years. Sensitivity for low spatial frequencies modulated at 0 to 15 Hz was not affected by age, but a progressive age-related elevation of threshold was found for combinations of high spatial and temporal frequencies. The magnitude of the effect ascribed to age on spatial frequency was larger than the effect of age on temporal frequency. For most combinations of spatial and temporal frequencies, elevation of thresholds started at approximately 45 years of age. No age-related effects were observed in a contrast-matching task performed at suprathreshold levels.
Aggressive interactions between the invasive Rio Grande cichlid (Herichthys cyanoguttatus) and native bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus), with notes on redspotted sunfish (Lepomis miniatus)

The Rio Grande cichlid (Herichthys cyanoguttatus) has been established in the Greater New Orleans Metropolitan area for at least 20 years, and its effect on native fishes is unknown. Behavioral trials were performed to determine if aggressive interactions occur between invasive H. cyanoguttatus and native bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus). When defending a territory as the resident, L. macrochirus were markedly aggressive, averaging 11.6 aggressive actions per 10-min behavioral trial. In contrast, L. macrochirus were extremely passive as invaders, with 0.5 aggressive actions per trial. Herichthyscyanoguttatus were equally aggressive as residents and as invaders, averaging 4.9 and 6.0 aggressive actions per trial, respectively. Herichthys cyanoguttatus interacted aggressively with native species whether they held territory or not, indicating that this invasive species may have fundamentally different strategies of aggression compared with native L. macrochirus. These differences may explain the continued success of H. cyanoguttatus as an invasive fish in southeastern Louisiana.
Cognitive maps: Analysis of comparative judgments of distance

Subjects were required to judge which of two straight-line distances was shorter in the context of a speeded-response task. In the “memory” condition of the experiment, these distances corresponded to imagined distances between geographic landmarks; in the “perception” condition, the distances were displayed visually for subjects to examine. The data were analyzed by examining patterns of latencies and errors as a function of the similarities between the two distances on each trial. These data suggest that different mechanisms mediate the comparison of distances retrieved from memory as compared to perceived distances.
Yellow-bellied marmot and golden-mantled ground squirrel responses to heterospecific alarm calls

Abstract When two species have predators in common, animals might be able to obtain important information about predation risk from the alarm calls produced by the other species. The behavioural responses of adult yellow-bellied marmots, Marmota flaviventris , and golden-mantled ground squirrels, Spermophilus lateralis , to conspecific and heterospecific alarm calls were studied to determine whether interspecific call recognition occurs in sympatric species that rarely interact. In a crossed design, marmot and squirrel alarm calls were broadcast to individuals of both species, using the song of a sympatric bird as a control. Individuals of both species responded similarly to conspecific and heterospecific anti-predator calls, and distinguished both types of alarms from the bird song. These results indicate that both marmots and squirrels recognized not only their own species' anti-predator vocalizations, but also the alarm calls of another species, and that these vocalizations were discriminated from an equally loud non-threatening sound. These findings suggest that researchers ought to think broadly when considering the sources of information available to animals in their natural environment.
Improved Demodulation of Phase Shift Keyed Signals Using Wavelet Thresholding

In this study the use of wavelet transform-based techniques to de-noise phase shift keyed (PSK) signals is investigated. Specifically, binary phase shift keyed (BPSK), quadrature phase shift keyed (QPSK) and 8-PSK signals are considered in the presence of additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN). Wavelet-domain decomposition of the received signals is carried out via the discrete wavelet transform (DWT). The Haar, Daubechies5, Coiflet5 and Symmlet4 wavelets are used, along with both hard- and soft-thresholding techniques. The improvements realized by matched filter-based demodulation in conjunction with the use of wavelet thresholding techniques are shown by bit error rate (BER) curves for each of the three modulation schemes. It has been found that by using appropriate wavelets and wavelet thresholding methods improvements in BER of over three orders of magnitude are achievable within the range of bit energy-to-noise spectral density ratios (Eb/N0) from -5 dB to 8 dB.
Boundary structures and the non-polar organic components of the murchison carbonaceous chondrite

Amphiphilic compounds were presumably present in the prebiotic environment, and at some point must have been involved in the first cellular life forms. An interesting question concerns the plausible identity of the amphiphiles. Fatty acids are among the simplest amphiphiles, and can self-assemble into vesicular membranes (1,2). However, such membranes are relatively labile, and it is likely that more complex amphiphilic mixtures were required for stable membranes as shown in prebiotic simulations (3,4,5). Although simulations serve a useful purpose, a second approach is to investigate the physical properties of organic mixtures known to have been synthesized abiotically by natural processes. One such mixture is the organic content of carbonaceous chondrites produced in the early solar system (6). The results to be reported here were obtained with samples of the Murchison meteorite, which earlier studies have shown to contain complex organic polymers together with a minor fraction of carboxylic acids and traces of alkanes, alcohols and amino acids (see ref. 7 for review). Samples of the chondrite were extracted with organic solvents and the extracted material was investigated by surface chemistry, infrared and fluorescence spectrophotometry, and microscopic methods (8). Parallel extractions of the Allende chondrite and silica powder were carried out. The Allende chondrite is relatively poor in organic content, and, together with the silica, served as a control against contaminants introduced during extraction. Chloroform-methanol extraction of powdered meteoritic material was carried out at alkaline pH ranges, and non-polar organic components were defined as those substances soluble in the chloroform phase. The non-polar extracts typically contained a few tenths mg per gram meteorite, and were faint yellow in color, with fluorescence peaks at 395 (excitation) and 475 (emission). Infrared spectrophotometry showed absorption bands characteristic of -C-H, C=O and -O-H stretching frequencies, which is consistent with earlier reports of phenolic and carboxylic acid derivatives of hydrocarbons. Titrations of non-polar material dispersed in water indicated pK values of 6.5 and 9.3. The extracted material was surface active, and spread at the airwater interface to produce films with surface areas of 0.45 m 2
Deciduomal Responses in the Uteri of Ovariectomized Golden Hamsters, Comparing Progesterone and Three Closely Related Steroids Applied in utero

Four closely related steroids were tested for their decidualizing effect in uteri of golden hamsters. These compounds were progesterone, 5o-pregnane-3,20-dione (DHP), deoxycorticosterone (DOC) and A5�pregnen�3L3�ol�20.one (pregnenolone). Intrauterine application was done by dissolving each compound in a semisolid wax-sesame oil mixture and injecting the material intraluminally by means of an 18 gauge trocar. All hamsters were ovariectomized except for I group of pseudopregnant controls. Treatment was on Days 1 and 4 after ovariectomy and decidual development was judged on Day 7. All treatments which included progesterone gave the largest deciduomata, including the pseudopregnant group. Both DOC and DHP gave less decidual response, with some DHP uteri merely showing lack of atrophy. Pregnenolone and plain wax gave no responseand permitted uterineatrophyafterovariectomy. The relative effectiveness of the several steroids in promoting deciduomata was correlated with their relative binding affinities for uterine progesterone receptor proteins as indicated by previous studies.
Characterization of the Proteomes Associating with Three Distinct Membrane Raft Sub-types in Murine Sperm

Mammalian sperm are transcriptionally and translationally inactive. To meet changing needs in the epididymis and female tract, they rely heavily on post-translational modifications and protein acquisition/degradation. Membrane rafts are sterol and sphingolipid-enriched micro-domains that organize and regulate various pathways. Rafts have significance in sperm by transducing the stimulus of sterol efflux into changes in intracellular signaling that confer fertilization competence. We recently characterized three biochemically distinct sub-types of sperm rafts, and now present profiles for proteins targeting to and associating with these sub-types, along with a fraction largely comprised of "non-raft" domains. Proteomics analysis using a gel-based LC-MS/MS approach identified 190 strictly validated proteins in the raft sub-types. Interestingly, many of these are known to be expressed in the epididymis, where sperm membrane composition matures. To investigate potential roles for rafts in epididymal protein acquisition, we compared the expression and localization of two different sterol-interacting proteins, apolipoprotein-A1 (apoA1) and prominin-1 (prom1) in sperm from different zones. We found that apoA1 was gradually added to the plasma membrane overlying the acrosome, whereas prom1 was not, suggesting different mechanisms for raft protein acquisition. Our results define raft-associating proteins, demonstrate functional similarities and differences among raft sub-types, and provide insights into raft-mediated epididymal protein acquisition.
Influence of Item Distribution Pattern and Abundance on Efficiency of Benthic Core Sampling

Core sampling is a commonly used method to estimate benthic item density, but little information exists about factors influencing the accuracy and time-efficiency of this method. We simulated core sampling in a Geographic Information System framework by generating points (benthic items) and polygons (core samplers) to assess how sample size (number of core samples), core sampler size (cm2), distribution of benthic items, and item density affected the bias and precision of estimates of density, the detection probability of items, and the time-costs. When items were distributed randomly versus clumped, bias decreased and precision increased with increasing sample size and increased slightly with increasing core sampler size. Bias and precision were only affected by benthic item density at very low values (500–1,000 items/m2). Detection probability (the probability of capturing ≥ 1 item in a core sample if it is available for sampling) was substantially greater when items were distributed randomly as opposed to clumped. Taking more small diameter core samples was always more time-efficient than taking fewer large diameter samples. We are unable to present a single, optimal sample size, but provide information for researchers and managers to derive optimal sample sizes dependent on their research goals and environmental conditions.
Modularization of Work Tasks for Global Engineering

This paper introduces a methodology that guides the modularization of work task for global engineering. Global engineering is a new collaboration model of co-developing engineering design systems with distributed teams. We consider the decision of allocating subsystem designs to engineering teams as modularization of work tasks. Previous efforts have reviewed the different approaches to analyzing product modularization, but few studies have investigated developing a methodology that focuses on process applications. We begin this paper with an overview of current modularization methods and of the definitions of Global Engineering. Then we present the three-step modularization methodology in detail: 1.) decompose the design system and its functional specifications by a flow down technique, 2.) identify the couplings between the system parts and the functional requirements, and plot the interactions in a matrix, and 3.) modularize design work based on the identified couplings for worksharing. As a case study, we apply the method to a vehicle interior design. We conclude the paper by discussing the case study findings and the appropriate application of this analysis. We also explain the methodology’s limitations and propose future research opportunities.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Glutamate - induced hyperglycemia.

SummaryPlasma glucose rose linearly with increasing amounts of glutamate up to a maximal dose of 0.2 mmoles/100 g body weight. The glutamate effect could not be explained by stoichiometric conversion of glutamate to glucose. Glutamate produced hyper-glycemia after 14-hour fast, at which time glucagon had no effect on glucose concentration. Adrenalectomy abolished the glutamate effect; ACTH suppression with dexametha-sone did not. Glutamate supplementation increased the plasma glucose response to pyruvate in excess of the additive effects of either substrate alone. It is suggested that glutamate produces hyperglycemia by stimulating new glucose production, and that this most likely results from increased glu-coneogenesis.
Distinguishing characteristics of patients who seek more information or request a prescription in response to direct-to-consumer advertisements.

Abstract Objective The objective of this study was to examine demographic and psychographic profiles of individuals who sought additional information or requested a prescription drug based on a direct-to-consumer advertisement. Methods A cross-sectional descriptive survey was used for collecting data from a random sample of 200 Minnesotans during Fall 2002. Chi-square and Mann-Whitney U tests were used as nonparametric tests for assessing differences in distributions between our categories of study subjects. Results Out of 177 deliverable surveys, 81 (46%) were returned. Of these, 80 surveys were usable for analysis. The results showed that the distinguishing characteristics of individuals who sought additional information based on an advertisement were associated with demographic variables such as number of drugs taken daily and monthly out-of-pocket expenditures for prescription drugs. In contrast, distinguishing characteristics of individuals who requested prescription drugs (in addition to seeking information) based on an advertisement were psychographic in nature such as (1) viewing themselves as having greater influence on their physician, (2) having a stronger relationship with their physician, (3) expressing greater satisfaction with their current therapy, (4) viewing prescriptions as less of a burden, and (5) having higher outcome expectations for prescription drugs compared to the respondents who did not ask for a prescription drug based on a direct-to-consumer advertisement. Conclusions Distinguishing characteristics of information seekers were demographic in nature, whereas those characteristics of prescription requesters were psychographic in nature.
The evolution of life's complexity

The Major Transitions in Evolution. By John Maynard Smith and Eors Szathmary. W. H. Freeman: 1995. Pp. 346. £16.99, $29.95 (pbk).
Social Network Structures in Open Source Software Development Teams

Drawing on social network theories and previous studies, this research examines the dynamics of social network structures in open source software (OSS) teams. Three projects were selected from SourceForge.net in terms of their similarities as well as their differences. Monthly data were extracted from the bug tracking systems in order to achieve a longitudinal view of the interaction pattern of each project. Social network analysis was used to generate the indices of social structure. The finding suggests that the interaction pattern of OSS projects evolves from a single hub at the beginning to a core/periphery model as the projects move forward.
Approximate Profile for Nonequilibrium Suspended Sediment

The ability to accurately simulate sediment transport processes in natural and engineered systems is crucial to both engineers and scientists. Many researchers have worked on the development of methods that yield reliable predictions of both sediment transport and morphological change with a minimum of computational burden, so that the long prototype time scales necessary to appropriately investigate these processes can be simulated within a reasonable amount of time. This includes the development of tools for approximating the complex behavior of the sediment concentration in the water column. In this technical note, the classic equilibrium sediment profile first introduced by Rouse is revisited. Following the development of the Rouse profile introduced by Einstein, a generalized nonequilibrium sediment concentration profile is generated. The principal assumption is that the convective term of the nonequilibrium vertical sediment flux can be approximated with the relationship that arises from purely convective transport. The method is compared to numerical solutions for depositional profiles, and appears to yield promising results.
A sequence from Drosophila melanogaster 18S rRNA bearing the conserved hypermodified nucleoside amψ: analysis by reverse transcription and high-performance liquid chromatography

The naturally occurring modified nucleoside 3-[3-amino-3-carboxypropyl]-1-methylpseudouridine (abbreviated am psi) is found in eukaryotic 18S rRNA. We localized am psi to sequence resolution in D. melanogaster 18S rRNA. This hypermodified base causes an absolute stop in cDNA elongation. The RNA sequence bearing am psi was determined by dideoxy-sequencing with reverse transcriptase. The rDNA coding for this part of the 18S rRNA was sequenced by the Maxam-Gilbert method. Together these two sequencing methods can be used to position the cDNA stop (am psi) in the rRNA sequence. Chemical evidence for the existence of am psi in this RNA sequence was obtained by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) of 18S rRNA nucleosides from radioactive-labeled cells. L-[2-14C] methionine will selectively label am psi in eukaryotic 18S rRNA. Using HPLC, we found a single 14C-labeled nucleotide in digests of 18S rRNA. This nucleotide is in the RNA sequence bearing the cDNA stop since a restriction fragment which hybridizes to this sequence protects the modified base from RNase T1 digestion.
Wiener-Number-Related Sequences

It is shown that several graph-distance-based structure-descriptors (among which are the recently introduced hyper-Wiener and Tratch−Stankevitch−Zefirov-type indices) are all mutually related and can be expressed in terms of distance distribution moments (i.e., moments for the distribution of shortest path intersite distances in the molecular graph).
Improving face clustering using social context

In this paper we describe an algorithm to improve the performance of face clustering using the social relationship of people. One common challenge in face clustering techniques is that very often the faces of the same person are clustered into different face clusters, due to the imperfection of the face features. The remedy to this problem, the user needs to scan all the clusters and manually merge the face clusters of the same person to the same cluster. We propose to use the social context information inherent among the people in a collection to build a social network and combine this knowledge with face similarity measure to generate a small number of ranked face clusters as the candidate for a cluster to be merged to. Thus, a user can gain the benefit of often avoiding browsing the face clusters back and forth to find the right cluster to merge. Experimental results show that the proposed approach can improve the recall of face clustering because more correct faces are merged into their significant cluster while still maintaining a high precision.