cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
GENERALIST PREDATORS DISRUPT BIOLOGICAL CONTROL BY A SPECIALIST PARASITOID

Two broad classes of arthropod natural enemies attack insect herbivores: specialists and generalists. The tight dynamical linkage of specialist natural enemies and their prey may make the specialists able to respond numerically to, and perhaps suppress, herbivore outbreaks. Because generalist predators may attack not only herbivores, but also the herbivores' specialist natural enemies, generalist predators may disrupt control of herbivore populations rather than contribute to it. We examined interactions between pea aphids (Acyrthosiphon pisum), a specialist parasitoid wasp (Aphidius ervi) that attacks the aphids, and a common generalist predator, carabid beetles (primarily Pterostichus melanarius). In two field experiments in alfalfa, we manipulated carabid densities to measure their direct (through predation) and indirect (through intraguild predation on A. ervi) impact on aphid population dynamics. The first experiment was initiated when plants were short (following cutting), and carabid predation of a...
On the modeling of small-angle X-ray scattering from systems of oriented fibrils

A method is outlined for the simulation of the scattering pattern from systems of oriented fibrils using the radial distribution function of a hard-disc fluid obtained under the Percus–Yevick approximation. In this manner both the diameter and the volume fraction of the fibrils may be estimated directly from the scattering pattern. The effect of polydispersity in the distribution of fibril diameters on the position of the scattering peak is discussed, suggesting that an estimate of the volume fraction from the peak position alone, such as in a modified Bragg's law, may be inaccurate.
Efferent projections of the torus semicircularis to the medulla of the tadpole,Rana catesbeiana

Horseradish peroxidase injections into the medulla of tadpoles demonstrate, by back-filling, efferent neurons in the torus semicircularis which project to the ipsilateral superior olive. This projection, as well as one to the vicinity of the efferent neurons of the contralateral VIII and lateral line nerves, is confirmed by tracing anterograde transport following HRP injections into the torus semicircularis. These efferent neurons, located primarily in the principal nucleus of the torus within the terminal field of the projection from the superior olive, represent the only reported descending path to the superior olive and efferent nuclei in a non-mammalian vertebrate.
Abstract A54: Mithramycin inhibits cigarette smoke-mediated induction of ABCG2 in lung and esophageal cancer cells: Implications for targeting cancer stem cells in thoracic malignancies.

Limited information is available regarding epigenetic mechanisms by which cigarette smoke mediates initiation and progression of thoracic malignancies. In order to examine this issue, lung and esophageal cancer cells (A549, Calu-6, NCI-SB-ESC1 and NCI-SB-ESC2), were cultured in normal media (NM) with or without cigarette smoke condensate (CSC) under clinically relevant exposure conditions. Microarray analysis revealed that five day CSC exposure significantly up-regulated ABCG2, encoding a xenobiotic pump highly expressed in cancer stem cells. Quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (qRT-PCR), western blot, and immunohistochemistry experiments confirmed up-regulation of ABCG2 in cultured cancer lines, but not normal small airway epithelial cells (SAEC) or immortalized esophageal squamous cells (HET1A) exposed to CSC. Flow cytometry experiments demonstrated that CSC increased the side population (SP) of cultured cancer cells. Transient transfection experiments using ABCG2 promoter reporter constructs revealed that deletion of xenobiotic response elements as well as SP-1 sites markedly attenuated ABCG2 induction by CSC. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) experiments revealed that CSC-mediated induction of ABCG2 coincided with increased occupancy of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), SP-1, and Nrf2, as well as increased levels of RNA pol II and H3K9Ac within the ABCG2 promoter. Under conditions potentially achievable in clinical settings, mithramycin diminished basal as well as CSC-mediated increases in AHR, SP-1, and Nrf2 levels within the ABCG2 promoter, down-regulated ABCG2 expression, decreased S P, inhibited in-vitro proliferation of lung and esophageal cancer cells, and markedly diminished growth of established tumor xenografts. Microarray analysis revealed significant down-regulation of numerous stem-cell related pathways in lung cancer cells following mithramycin exposure. Collectively, these findings provide a potential mechanistic link between smoking status and outcome of patients with lung and esophageal cancers, and support clinical evaluation of mithramycin for targeting cancer stem cells in thoracic malignancies. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR-NCI-EORTC International Conference: Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics; 2011 Nov 12-16; San Francisco, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Ther 2011;10(11 Suppl):Abstract nr A54.
Naloxone modulates body and organ growth of rats: dependency on the duration of opioid receptor blockade and stereospecificity.

Abstract Endogenous opioid systems (i.e., endogenous opioids and opioid receptors) act in the trophic regulation of biological development. Opioid antagonist paradigms have served to elucidate the nature of this relationship. If growth is mediated at the level of the opioid receptor, one would expect that this interaction would be stereospecific. This study shows that daily injections of 20–60 mg/kg (−) naloxone, given chronically throughout the preweaning period, depress body weight when monitored at Day 21. Opioid challenge experiments using nociceptive measures show that these dosages of (−) naloxone invoked an opioid receptor blockade for no more than 10–12 hr/day. A dosage of 100 mg/kg (−) naloxone, which blocked the opioid receptor for 12–16 hr/day, did not alter body weight in comparison to control levels. In subsequent experiments, 40 mg/kg (−) naloxone depressed body weight of 21-day-old rats, and the wet weights of the liver, spleen, thymus, heart, and triceps surae muscle from these animals were subnormal. A dosage of 40 mg/kg (+) naloxone did not alter growth. These results show that opioid action in regard to growth is stereospecific and dependent on the duration of opioid receptor blockade, providing additional evidence that endogenous opioid systems play an important role in developmental events.
Chromosomal location of a gene conditioning insensitivity in wheat to a necrosis-inducing culture filtrate from Pyrenophora tritici-repentis

Previous research indicates that infection by the tan spot fungus (Pyrenophora tritici-repentis) produces two genetically distinct symptoms in wheat (Triticum aestivum) : tan necrosis and extensive chlorosis. Necrosis-inducing isolates of P. tritici-repentis release a host-selective toxin in culture that produces a reaction highly associated with the induction of tan necrosis in susceptible wheat genotypes. The objectives of this research were to determine the number of genes conditioning insensitivity to a necrosis-inducing culture filtrate in a population of wheat F 3 families, and to map the insensitivity gene(s) using restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs). The population consisted of 58 F 3 families derived from the cross of a resistant synthetic hexaploid, W-7976, with the susceptible cultivar 'Kulm.' At least 16 individuals from each F 3 family were infiltrated with culture filtrate from the P. tritici-repentis isolate 86-124 and were scored as insensitive or sensitive. Low-copy DNA clones that hybridized to group 5 wheat chromosomes were used to detect RFLPs associated with insensitivity. The families segregated in a ratio of 15 :29 :14 homozygous insensitive/segregating/homozygous sensitive, suggesting that a single nuclear gene was responsible for conditioning insensitivity to the pathogenic factor(s) in the culture filtrate. RFLPs were detected that flanked the locus conferring insensitivity at distances of 5.7 and 16.5 cM. Aneuploid analysis indicated that this gene resided on the long arm of chromosome 5B. We proposed the symbol tsnl to designate this gene.
Self-monitoring of behaviour as a risk reduction strategy for persons living with HIV

To reduce the HIV-related transmission behaviours of persons living with HIV (PLH), a few efficacious interventions have been designed and evaluated. However, these interventions were delivered at relatively high cost, both in terms of time and resources. Given the challenges for health providers and community agencies in delivering these interventions, alternatives are needed. One possible intervention is allowing PLH to self-monitor their HIV transmission risk behaviour. Previous research suggests that self-monitoring of HIV-risk related behaviours may be a useful risk reduction strategy. This paper examines the impact of repeated risk assessments for behavioural self-monitoring as an intervention strategy for reducing sexual and substance use risk behaviours. A total of 365 PLH, recruited from community clinics, health management organizations, and health departments, completed self-assessments over time. Increased self-monitoring resulted in increases in protected sex with sexual partners of HIV-negative or unknown serostatus, and changes in attitudes conducive to reducing risk. Self-monitoring is a relatively low cost and easily implementable strategy for reducing the HIV-related transmission risk of PLH.
Gastroesophageal reflux as a predictor of complications after adenotonsillectomy in young children.

Abstract Objective To examine characteristics of young children with gastroesophageal reflux (GER) who experienced complications within the first 24 h after adenotonsillectomy. Study design Subset analysis of a larger retrospective cohort. Methods A retrospective chart review was performed at a tertiary care children's hospital. Consecutive records of children 3 years old and younger undergoing adenotonsillectomy (AT) over a 5-year period were reviewed. Children with a clinical history of GER were selected for the study. Results 993 children were included in the initial analysis, and GER was found to be a significant independent variable predictive of early complications. 81 children with a history of GER were included in this study and 8 (9.9%) were found to have experienced complications within the first 24 h. Six of the complications were airway-related; two required re-intubation within the first 24 h. All 8 children with complications had symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing and two had documented severe obstructive sleep apnea (AHI 18.6 and 27.2). Seven children had other risk factors for complications after AT. Eighteen (22%) children had a prolonged length of stay (range 2–7 days); additional risk factors were present in these patients as well. Conclusions Knowledge of risk factors for complications following adenotonsillectomy is critical for identifying at-risk patients that may warrant closer post-operative observation. GER has been previously identified as a risk factor for complications in young children. Upon closer analysis, young children with GER who have other known risk factors may be at a further increased risk for airway complications and prolonged hospitalization. Parents of these children can be counseled on the post-operative risks and the possibility of a longer hospitalization.
Wireless Channel Modeling of Multiply Connected Reverberant Spaces: Application to Electromagnetic Compatibility Assessment

Radio-frequency wireless communications and sensor networks are currently being deployed in structures that comprise confined, reflective spaces that are electromagnetically coupled. Such structures are commonly found in aviation, shipping, automotive, and warehousing industries. In this paper, a general time-dependent model is presented whose solutions directly provide key properties of the wireless communications channel in multiply connected reverberant spaces. The model equations can be solved numerically for any number of cavities and for any level (weak or strong) of coupling between the cavities. The wireless channel properties investigated in this paper include power delay profile, rms time delay spread, coherence bandwidth, average received channel power, signal-strength fading statistics, and maximum field environment. Measured and modeled channel properties are presented for two and three coupled, highly multipath spaces. These channel model parameters aid in making electromagnetic compatibility assessments of wireless network emissions in these environments.
Generalizations for the potential of mean force between two isolated colloidal particles from Monte Carlo simulations.

Abstract A substantial amount of experimental and numerical evidence has shown that the Derjaguin–Landau–Verwey–Overbeek theory is not suitable for describing those colloidal solutions that contain multivalent counterions. Toward improved understanding of such solutions, the authors report Monte Carlo calculations wherein, following Rouzina and Bloomfield, they postulate that, in the absence of van der Waals forces, the overall force between two isolated charged colloidal particles in electrolyte solutions is determined by a dimensionless parameter Γ=z2lB/a, which measures the electrostatic repulsion between counterions adsorbed on the macroion surface, where z = counterion valence, lB=Bjerrum length, and a = average separation between counterions on the macroion surface calculated as if the macroion were fully neutralized. The authors find, first, that the maximum repulsion between like-charged macroions occurs at Γ≈0.5 and, second, that onset of attraction occurs at Γ≈1.8, essentially independent of the valence and concentration of the surrounding electrolyte. These observations might provide new understanding of interactions between electrostatic double layers and perhaps offer explanations for some electrostatic phenomena related to interactions between DNA molecules or proteins.
Le roman pour la jeunesse au Québec. Sa place dans le champ littéraire

Apres un rapide etat des lieux au niveau international, qui met en perspective le cas du Quebec, l’article evalue la position du roman pour la jeunesse dans le champ litteraire quebecois en observant successivement l’evolution de l’edition jeunesse; les instances de legitimation : couverture mediatique, prix, recherche universitaire; le point de vue des auteurs: leur image d’eux-memes et leur conception de l’ecriture. En terminant, il s’interroge sur la signification d’un phenomene caracteristique du roman pour la jeunesse des decennies 80-90 : les references de plus en plus systematiques a la litterature generale. L’approche s’inspire globalement des travaux de Pierre Bourdieu, et plus particulierement des Regles de l’art (1992).
Non-barbiturate, drug-induced reversible loss of brainstem reflexes

Criteria for establishing brain death require the clinician to rule out reversible causes for loss of brainstem function. Aside from barbiturates, few medications are known to abolish brainstem reflexes entirely. Case report. A 60-year-old woman underwent a five-vessel coronary artery bypass graft after receiving streptokinase and heparin for an acute myocardial infarction. Postoperatively, she was alert, following commands, and moving all extremities. Early on postoperative day 2, she developed pulseless ventricular fibrillation requiring cardiopulmonary resuscitation and defibrillation. She received a lidocaine bolus (100 mg) followed by lidocaine drip (2 mg/min). She was alert following this episode. Nine hours later, she experienced ventricular tachycardia requiring cardioversion. She was bolused with lidocaine (75 mg), her lidocaine drip was increased (4 mg/min), and amiodarone and bretylium drips were started. She was alert and following commands after this episode. Later on postoperative day 2, she lost her distal pulses. She was believed to have embolized from her aorta and was placed on heparin. Heparin was then discontinued due to presumptive heparin-induced thrombocytopenia and thrombosis syndrome (HITTS). During the afternoon of postoperative day 2, she …
On Jointly Estimating Parameters and Missing Data by Maximizing the Complete-Data Likelihood

Abstract One approach to handling incomplete data occasionally encountered in the literature is to treat the missing data as parameters and to maximize the complete-data likelihood over the missing data and parameters. This article points out that although this approach can be useful in particular problems, it is not a generally reliable approach to the analysis of incomplete data. In particular, it does not share the optimal properties of maximum likelihood estimation, except under the trivial asymptotics in which the proportion of missing data goes to zero as the sample size increases.
Low temperature synthetic studies of beta-aluminas

Abstract Low temperature synthesis of beta-alumina leads to epitaxial mixtures of beta and beta″ types. Beta″ alumina is metastable unless stabilized with magnesium (and, presumably, lithium). Beta aluminas have not been seen below 950°C, but we are unable to show that beta is metastable at lower temperatures. Fine, preformed beta powders hardly sinter at all below 1500°C.
Comparison of First-Order Finite Difference and Finite Element Algorithms for the Analysis of Magnetic Fields. Part I: Theoretical Analysis

Finite difference and finite element methods are investigated as applied to Laplace and Poisson linear equations in two dimensions. The comparative analysis concentrates on first-order square, rectangular, triangular and polar algorithms which are characteristic to each method. The results are found to be independent of the method used to establish the matrix equations but dependent upon the choice of grid systems employed to discretize the problem. It is found that for special cases the solutions are also independent of the type and structure of the grid systems used.
Effect of muscle source on premature browning in ground beef.

Abstract Premature browning (PMB) describes cooked beef that may appear done before reaching 71 °C. Ground beef from paired Longissimus lumborum (LL) and Psoas major (PM) muscles was formed into patties. Patties were cooked immediately, and after 48 and 96 h storage at 4 °C. Total reducing activity (TRA) and external color were measured immediately prior to cooking. Patties were cooked to internal end point temperatures of 60, 66, 71 or 77 °C and internal cooked color (L*, a* and b* values) was measured. Raw PM patties had greater L* values and lesser a* values than those from LL (P
Effect of heat treatment on the fracture toughness of low alloy steels

Abstract The relationships between the austenitizing temperature, the quenching medium, and the plane strain fracture toughness have been investigated for the following quenched and tempered low alloy commercial steels: 4130, 4330, 4140, 4340, 300-M and 3140. The specimens were tested in both the as quenched condition, and after tempering at temperatures up to 390°C. By increasing the austenitizing temperature from 870°C to 1200°C, the fracture toughnesses of these alloys was significantly increased and for some alloys increasing the severity of the quench from oil to ice brine, when used after austenitizing at 1200°C, led to still further increases in the fracture toughness. Using a ‘step quench’, which consisted of auitenitizing at 1200°C for 1 hr followed by furnace cooling to 870°C and holding for 1 2 hr before quenching, did not, in general, result in as high a fracture toughness as when the specimens were directly quenched from 1200°C. Associated with the increase in toughness were changes in both the microstructure and the fracture morphology. Alloys 4130, 4340, 4140, and 3140, showed severe intergranular embrittlement when austeoitized at 1200°C and tempered above 200°C, while alloys 4330 and 300-M did not.
Female murderers in a southern city, 1975–1992

A study of a population of 36 females arrested for homicide in a southern, nonurban city from 1975 to 1992 was conducted using both qualitative and quantitative data. The study explored the demographic, social, legal, and offense characteristics of female homicide offenders as well as events leading to the murder. The profile of female homicide offenders in a southern, non-urban setting that emerged from this study is supportive of earlier studies focusing on female homicide offenders in large urban areas.
Time-efficient contrast-enhanced thermoacoustic imaging modality for 3-D breast cancer detection using compressive sensing

Microwave-induced thermoacoustic imaging (TAI) has been actively researched in the past decade and shown to be a promising non-ionizing technology for breast cancer detection [1, 2]. TAI develops an image indicative of the internal structures of a biological sample by exploiting emanated acoustic waves from absorbed microwave energy in the sample due to the thermoacoustic effect [3]. As a hybrid modality, TAI integrates several attractive merits, including large contrast, high spatial resolution and low cost of implementation.
The Technology and Use of Blastomere Analysis

With the use of blastomere analysis, it is possible to screen for serious genetic disease before initiating pregnancy through in vitro fertilization. The analysis provides information about an embryo's genetic composition before implantation. This article describes the technique of blastomere analysis and its current and potential uses. Implications for nursing practice and education are identified.
Multiaspect target detection in SAR imagery using hidden Markov models

It is well known that radar scattering from an illuminated object is often dependent on target-sensor orientation. In typical synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imagery, such aspect dependence is lost during image formation. We apply a sequence of directional filters to the SAR imagery to generate a sequence of images which recover the directional dependence over a corresponding sequence of subapertures. The scattering statistics associated with geometrically distinct target- sensor orientations are then used to design a hidden Markov model (HMM) for the target class. This approach explicitly incorporates the sensor motion into the model and accounts for the fact that the orientation of the target is assumed to be unknown. Performance is quantified by considering the detection of tactical targets concealed in foliage.
The use of complementary and alternative health care practices among children.

Abstract Introduction: The purposes of this descriptive study were to: (a) describe the use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practices for children as reported by their parents, and (b) to develop a CAM screening tool. Method: A convenience sample of 191 parents was obtained from 3 primary care settings within a midwestern, metropolitan area. The questionnaire consisted of: (a) seven screening questions, (b) a list of specific CAM therapies used by children and by parents, (c) six open-ended questions about sick child care, and (d) a demographic section. Results: Thirty-three percent of parents reported using CAM for their child within the past year, most commonly citing infant massage, massage therapy, vitamin therapy, and botanical products. Analysis revealed that White parents who used CAM for themselves and had children school-age and older were significantly more likely to provide CAM for their child. Chi-square analyses between the responses to selected screening questions and use of CAM were statistically ( P =.001) significant but identified only 24% of the parents who used CAM for their children. Discussion: Pediatric nurses should ask parents and children about CAM use in an open manner that promotes discussion. Further refinement of the screening tool is needed. J Pediatr Health Care. (2003). 17, 58-63.
The application of dosimetry models to identify key processes and parameters for default dose-response assessment approaches

Mathematical dosimetry models should improve the accuracy of various extrapolations required in dose-response assessment because they include explicit descriptions of the major mechanistic determinants of the exposure-dose-response continuum. The availability of these anatomic and physiologic parameters for different mammalian species (including humans) and the physicochemical parameters for individual chemicals is an important consideration in the formulation of model structures and the application of simplifying assumptions to develop default models. A framework is presented that includes iterative development of model structures as more data become available. Development of the default dosimetry adjustments for interspecies extrapolation used in the inhalation reference concentration (RfC) methods of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is discussed as an example of iterative model development, a process intended to ensure that model structures are commensurate with available data. The framework also aids evaluation of different model structures and can be applied to identify key parameters. Examples are provided to illustrate how insight on the key mechanistic determinants of exposure-dose-response can guide interpretation of data in the absence of comprehensive model structures, identify gaps in the database for a given chemical, or direct data gathering for chemicals that are yet to enter production.
THE PLACEMENT OF PERILLA (ARANEAE, ARANEIDAE) WITH COMMENTS ON ARANEID PHYLOGENY

Abstract The Oriental spider genus Perilla Thorell is revised, diagnosed and transferred from the tetragnathid subfamily Nephilinae to the araneid subfamily Araneinae. Cladistic analysis of recently published araneid matrices with the addition of Perilla supports this new placement. Perilla groups with Chorizopes O. P.-Cambridge, previously a basal araneid. Perilla teres Thorell, the type species of the genus, is redescribed. The only other known species, Perilla cylindrogaster Simon, is proposed as a junior synonym of P. teres, which renders Perilla monotypic.
Doubling the catabolic reducing power (NADH) output of Escherichia coli fermentation for production of reduced products

Homofermentative production of reduced products requires additional reducing power output (NADH) from glucose catabolism. Anaerobic expression of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDH, encoded by aceEF-lpd, a normal aerobic operon) is able to provide the additional NADH required for production of reduced products in Escherichia coli fermentation. The multiple promoters (pflBp(1–7)) of pyruvate formate lyase (pflB) were evaluated for anaerobic expression of the aceEF-lpd operon. Four chromosomal constructs, pflBp(1–7)-aceEF-lpd, pflBp(1–6)-aceEF-lpd, pflBp(6,7)-aceEF-lpd, and pflBp6-aceEF-lpd efficiently expressed the PDH complex in anaerobically grown cells. Doubling the reducing power output was achieved when glucose was oxidized to acetyl-CoA through glycolysis and pyruvate oxidation by the anaerobically expressed PDH complex (glucose 2 acetyl-CoA + 4 NADH). This additional reducing power output can be used for production of reduced products in anaerobic E. coli fermentation. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2010
SU-FF-T-44: A Simplified PC-Based Helical Tomotherapy Planning System

Purpose: A simplified helical‐tomotherapy independent planning system (SHIPS) has been developed for independent verification of the TomoTherapy Hi‐ART (TomoTherapy Inc. Madison, WI) treatment scheme and to provide an alternative method to produce helical tomotherapy plans. The SHIPS program is designed to be simple, so the program can run on a desktop PC, and straightforward, so the delivery scheme is intuitive. Presented here are relationships/equations SHIPS uses to produce delivery parameters and treatment sinogram. Methods and Materials:SHIPS requires the user to input the patient geometry and contours as geometric shapes, e.g. cylinders and ellipsoids. Simplifying the geometry makes the structures in the treatment sinogram more perceptible and speeds the contouring process. The user specifies pitch, field size, and prescribed dose. SHIPS calculates the couch travel length, the number of rotations, couch travel speed, MU, and time of treatment. The required rotation period can be calculated using the prescription, depth to a point of interest, and measured beam data (depth dose output factors, and profile data). The treatment sinogram is created using geometry information, treatment parameters, beam data, and the prescription. SHIPS treatment parameters are compared against values produced from the Hi‐ART system, forty plans are observed. Results: The average deviation of the SHIPS calculated couch travel distance, time of treatment, couch speed, and number of monitor units to the Hi‐ART's values are, respectively, 0.08%, 0.05%, 0.37%, and 0.74%. Simulated imbedded targets(e.g. prostate) and external/convex(e.g. breast) are presented examples of SHIPS treatment plans. The SHIPS treatment plan calculation is less than 30 seconds. Conclusion: SHIPS bypasses the Hi‐ART's optimizer, producing independently derived plans. Running SHIPS in parallel with the Hi‐ART's treatment planner provides quality assurance of the entire treatment planning process. Additionally SHIPS can challenge how much inverse planning the Hi‐ART system requires and can be used for basic forward planning.
Tip geometry effects on the model helicopter rotor low frequency broadband noise

The effect of rotor blade tip shapes and performance parameters on the low frequency broadband noise (LFBN) is investigated experimentally. The experimental results show 2 to 5 dB reductions for swept geometries compared with square tip blades at constant blade loading. A theoretical model is formulated which includes a detailed lift response function. For the square tip blades, theoretical results are found to be in good agreement with the experimental results. While the effects of advance ratio and tip speed on the LFBN are explicable, those of blade loading are not clearly understood.
Ventilator-Associated Tracheobronchitis in a Mixed Medical/Surgical Pediatric ICU

Background Adult studies have demonstrated that ventilator-associated tracheobronchitis (VAT) may be a precursor to ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). No published data on VAT in pediatric ICUs (PICUs) were found. The purposes of this retrospective, descriptive study are to describe the incidence, characteristics, and outcomes of patients at risk for VAT and formalize a process of VAT surveillance in the PICU population. Methods All patients meeting criteria for VAT during 2009-2010 were reviewed and data collected on risk of mortality, index of mortality, interventions, demographic data, respiratory cultures, and the organisms identified in culture. Results Of 645 patients (32.7%) admitted who met mechanical ventilation criteria, 22 (3.4%) met criteria for VAT. Patients with VAT experienced a significantly longer mean length of stay in the PICU (27.6 ± 22.043 days vs 6.61 ± 7.27 days; P = .000) and higher mean total ventilator time (519.31 ± 457.60 h vs 95.60 ± 138.83 h; P = .000). There was a significant association between tracheostomy and VAT ( P = .000) and between chronic ventilator dependence and VAT ( P = .002). Gram-negative rods accounted for 71% of cultured microorganisms; staphylococcal or streptococcal species were identified as 26% of causative pathogens. Six of 25 (24%) VAT events identified two or more potentially causative pathogens; four of these (67%) were in patients with a tracheostomy. Conclusions VAT occurred less frequently in our PICU than reported in adult studies, and no cases of VAT progressed to VAP in our population. Our results suggest that VAT is a clinically significant health-care-associated infection in the PICU population.
Dietary differences between two co-occurring calanoid copepod species.

Two co-occurring high altitude calanoid copepods, Diaptomus shoshone Marsh and D. coloradensis Forbes are of different size: the former is approximately twice as long as the latter. There are also temporal differences in development: the former matures 2–3 weeks before the latter in most ponds. Gut analyses of copepodids and adults of both species indicate that D. shoshone eats larger food particles but that D. shoshone early copepodids eat particles similar in size to D. coloradensis adults. Morphology of feeding appendages partially explains the dietary differences. These data are discussed from the viewpoint of competition between the species; it is concluded that either temporal differences or size differences of copepodids and adults would allow coexistence and that extreme size differences are probably unimportant compared to morphological differences of feeding appendages and perhaps behavioral differences.
Purification and characterization of a benzodiazepine-like substance from mammalian brain

An endogenous brain ligand which competes with [3H]-flunitrazepam for the binding to benzodiazepine receptor has been isolated and purified to homogeneity. The purification procedures involve the extraction of the endogenous ligand by homogenizing the brain tissue in water containing various protease inhibitors followed by filtration through a PM 10 membrane (exclusion limit: 10,000-dalton), column chromatographies on Sephadex G-50, Bio-Rad P2 and a series of C18 reverse phase HPLC columns. The purified endogenous ligand was eluted as a single and symmetrical peak monitored at either 220 or 280 nm. Furthermore, the ligand activity coincided with the absorption peak. The purified endogenous ligand is thermostable, insensitive to various peptidases and proteolytic enzymes, resistant to DNAse, RNAse, and carbohydrate enzyme e.g. neuraminidase (EC 3.2.1.18) and acid treatment. It has a major absorption peak at 220 nm and a minor one at 313 nm. The endogenous ligand appears to be quite specific since it only inhibits the binding of ligand to the central type benzodiazepine receptor but not to other receptors, e.g. peripheral type benzodiazepine receptor, α1-adrenoceptor, α2-adrenoceptor, β-adrenoceptor and muscarinic cholinergic receptor. Furthermore, the inhibition of the receptor binding by the endogenous ligand is enhanced by GABA suggesting that the endogenous ligand is a benzodiazepine receptor agonist. The structure of the endogenous ligand is unknown.
Time-Varying Patterns: Nonparametric Approaches

We discuss the time-varying imagery analysis problem, contrasting low level and high level feature correspondence algorithms. Low level techniques are shown to have lower sensitivity to signal-to-noise level changes. High level techniques are shown to be more computationally attractive for complex scenes because of reduced feature data set sizes and heuristic matching methods. We go on to describe our high level motion and depth analysis system based on graphs composed of curvature segments called half chunks.© (1983) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Multilevel security in a distributed object-oriented system

It is often suggested that distributed computing will be the major trend in computer systems during the next decade. However, distributed systems are vulnerable to a number of security attacks. In this paper we look at the security problems of object-based distributed systems, and propose a model based on labelling for multilevel security. The purpose of this model is to preserve the information flow security in a distributed object-oriented system. We consider the basic concepts of processing objects, and also the security threats to such systems. We postulate various modelling possibilities, and produce a specific set of security properties which describe a multilevel secure object model. This particular model demonstrates how various modelling decisions are reflected in an actual model.
New perspectives on transitions between ecological-evolutionary subunits in the ''type interval'' for coordinated stasis

Northern Appalachian Basin deposits and associated fossils have served as exemplars for ecological-evolutionary investigations, and as the reference interval for the concept of coordinated stasis. Here, we examine faunal and environmental changes within the uppermost Hamilton and lowermost Genesee Groups of the late Middle Devonian succession of New York State. Dramatic diversity loss, faunal migrations, and ecological restructuring recognized in these strata have been used previously to define the end of the Hamilton ecological-evolutionary subunit, and, furthermore, these strata and corresponding faunal changes represent the type region for the global Taghanic Biocrisis. We present and analyze a new, high-resolution data set of post-Taghanic Genesee fossil assemblages, in which we recognize 11 biofacies corresponding to an onshore-offshore (depth) gradient. The Genesee Fauna shows an unexpectedly high taxonomic similarity to nearshore biofacies of the pre-Taghanic Hamilton Fauna, related to the persistence of siliciclastic-dominated nearshore settings through the Taghanic Biocrisis, whereas the onset of anoxic/dysoxic conditions typified offshore portions of the environmental gradient. The “Nearshore Refugium Model” of Erwin offers a possible explanation for the persistence of taxa through the biocrisis in nearshore settings. This constriction was followed by subsequent expansion of these residual taxa to offshore environments in relatively similar associations, as increased Acadian orogenic activity and resultant delta progradation increased habitable space offshore by decreasing the extent of deeper-water, oxygen-poor settings. Although taxonomic similarity was high between the Hamilton and Genesee Faunas, biofacies structure differed primarily because of tectonically driven physical transformations to the basin and associated biotic turnover. Nevertheless, the combination of high taxonomic persistence of Hamilton nearshore taxa and the introduction of relatively few new taxa in the Genesee Fauna resulted in a taxonomic holdover that was much higher than observed in the original formulation of coordinated stasis.
Molecular cloning of human cathepsin O, a novel endoproteinase and homologue of rabbit OC2

A 1670-bp cDNA coding for a novel human cysteine protease has been isolated from a monocyte-derived macrophage cDNA library. This cDNA predicts a 329-amino acid preprocathepsin with more than 50% identity to both human cathepsin S and cathepsin L and 94% identity to a rabbit cDNA, termed OC2, recently isolated from osteoclasts. Based on its high homology to OC2, we have named the human enzyme cathepsin O. Cathepsin O mRNA was identified as a single ∼1.7 kb transcript in cultures of 15-day-old monocyte-derived macrophages, but was not expressed in human monocytes or alveolar macrophages. When transfected into COS-7 cells, cathepsin O displayed potent endoprotease activity against fibrinogen at acid pH. This novel endoprotease may play an important role in extracellular matrix degradation.
Phytophthora Root Rot Resistance in Soybean E00003

phytophthora root rot (prr) is a devastating disease in soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] production. Michigan elite soybean E00003 is resistant to Phytophthora sojae and has been used as a resistance source in breeding. Genetic control of prr resistance in this source is unknown. To facilitate marker-assisted selection (MAS), the prr resistance loci in E00003 and their map locations need to be determined. In this study, a genetic mapping approach was used to identify major prr-resistant loci in E00003. The mapping population consists of 240 F4–derived lines developed by crossing E00003 with the P. sojae susceptible line pI 567543C. In 2009 and 2010, the mapping population was evaluated in the greenhouse for prr resistance against P. sojae races 1, 4, and 7, using modified rice (Oryza sativa L.) grain inoculation method. The population was genotyped with seven simple sequence repeat (SSr) and three single nucleotide polymorphism (SNp) markers derived from bulk segregant analysis. The heritability of resistance in the population ranged from 83 to 94%. A major locus, contributing 50 to 76% of the phenotypic variation, was mapped within a 3 cM interval in the Rps1 region. The interval was further saturated with more BArCSoY SSrs and SNps with TaqMan assays. Two SSrs and three SNps within the Rps1k gene were highly associated with prr resistance in the mapping population. The major resistance gene in E00003 is either allelic or tightly linked to Rps1k.The molecular markers located in the Rps1k gene can be used to improve MAS for prr resistance. Z. Zhang, J. Hao, J. Yuan, C. Gu, and D. Wang, Dep. of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences, Michigan State Univ., East Lansing, MI 48824; Q.J. Song, D.L. Hyten, and P.B. Cregan, USDA –ARS Soybean Genomics and Improvement Laboratory, Beltsville, MD 20705; G. Zhang, Agricultural Research Center–Hays, Kansas State Univ., Hays, KS 67601; M. Li, Division of Biostatistics, Dep. of Pediatrics, Univ. of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72202. Received 12 Nov. 2013. *Corresponding author (wangdech@msu.edu). Abbreviations: BSA, bulked segregant analysis; CIM, composite interval mapping; GI, germination index; LOD, logarithm of odds; MAS, marker-assisted selection; PCR, polymerase chain reaction; PRR, Phytophthora root rot; QTL, quantitative trait loci; RIL, recombinant inbred line; SI, survival index; ∆SI, adjusted survival index; SNP, single nucleotide polymorphism; SSR, simple sequence repeat. Published in Crop Sci. 54:492–499 (2014). doi: 10.2135/cropsci2012.11.0631 © Crop Science Society of America | 5585 Guilford Rd., Madison, WI 53711 USA All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. Permission for printing and for reprinting the material contained herein has been obtained by the publisher.
Immunomodulatory therapy of eosinophil‐associated gastrointestinal diseases

Eosinophil-associated gastrointestinal disorders (EGIDs), including eosinophilic esophagitis (EE) and eosinophilic gastroenteritis (EG), are a spectrum of increasingly recognized inflammatory diseases characterized by gastrointestinal symptoms and eosinophilic infiltration of the gastrointestinal tract. Significant morbidity is associated with the development of esophageal strictures in some patients. Immune-mediated reactions to food allergens appear to drive the inflammation in a subset of patients, especially those with solitary EE, but dietary interventions remain difficult in EE and are less effective in EG. Despite the increasing incidence of these disorders and their increased recognition by physicians, there are currently no medications that either United States or European Union regulatory agencies have specifically approved for use in EGIDs. This lack of safe and effective therapies for EGIDs is a major obstacle in the care of these patients and underscores the need for new therapeutic approaches. This review briefly discusses the currently available 'off label' drug treatments for EGIDs, most notably topical and systemic corticosteroids. Pathogenesis studies of EGIDs suggest possible therapeutic targets, and conversely, clinical trials of mechanistically-targeted therapeutics give insight into disease pathogenesis. Thus, EGID pathogenesis is discussed as an introduction to mechanistically-targeted immunotherapeutics. The two biologic categories that have been used in EGIDs, anti-IgE (omalizumab) and anti-IL-5 (SCH55700/reslizumab and mepolizumab), are discussed. Because there are similarities in the pathogenesis of EGIDs with asthma and atopic dermatitis, biologic therapeutics currently in early trials for asthma management are also briefly discussed as potential therapeutic agents for EGIDs. Given the deficiencies of current therapeutics and the rapidly advancing knowledge of the pathogenesis of these disorders, EGIDs are an ideal model for translating recent advances in understanding immunopathogenesis into mechanistically-based therapeutics. Further understanding of the early events in pathogenesis is also needed to develop preventive and disease-modifying treatments.
Robust control of passive-jointed robot and experimental validation using sliding mode

A robust control strategy for a passive-jointed robot using sliding mode control is investigated. Instead of an actuator, the passive joint has a brake to reduce the weight and energy consumption of the robot. While the brake is released, the passive joint is indirectly controlled by the motion of the active joint using the dynamic coupling of the robot manipulators. However, there are uncertainties associated with parameters in the links as well as in the operation of the actuator and the brake. To ensure minimum variation from the desired mode of operation in the presence of these uncertainties, a sliding mode control algorithm is developed and the performance evaluated. From simulation results, the sliding mode scheme is superior to a simple computed torque method in terms of passive-joint tracking performance and robustness. A two-link manipulator was designed and built to evaluate the proposed control scheme experimentally. The robot consists of one active joint and one passive joint and operates in a horizontal plane. The planar manipulator was controlled from a 32-bit 80486 microcomputer via DT2811 input/output board. The experimental results indicate that the sliding mode controller, when compared to the computed torque controller, reduces the tracking error by 50% and improves the robustness to variations in payloads.
Infectious Hematopoietic Necrosis Virus (IHNV) in Coho Salmon

Abstract Infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV) causes important losses of chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha, sockeye salmon Oncorhynchus nerka, and rainbow trout and steelhead Oncorhynchus mykiss on the west coast of North America. Although coho salmon Oncorhynchus kisutch are considered resistant to IHNV infection, the virus was detected in numerous adult coho salmon returning to Trinity River Hatchery, California, in 1985 and 1986. The virus was isolated from internal organs and ovarian fluids of these fish. Antigenic and structural polypeptides of the viruses were identical in adult coho and chinook salmon collected at the same location. Chinook salmon and rainbow trout alevins exhibited high degrees of susceptibility to IHNV obtained from adult coho and chinook salmon. Coho salmon alevins were resistant to both virus isolants.
MENINGEAL WORM IN A REINTRODUCED ELK POPULATION IN KENTUCKY

Meningeal worm (Parelaphostrongylus tenuis) has been implicated in the failure of several elk (Cervus elaphus) restoration attempts in the eastern United States. However, limited post-release monitoring and a paucity of published literature prevents a clear understanding of this parasite's role in past failures. During winters of 1997–2001, the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources translocated 1,044 elk from western states to eastern Kentucky (USA) in an effort to restore a free-ranging population. We monitored 521 radio-collared elk over 4 yr to determine the impact meningeal worm had on population establishment. Thirty (23%) of 129 non-capture related mortalities were attributed to meningeal worm. Twenty-two (73%) of these meningeal worm-caused mortalities were animals <3 yr old. If younger elk born in Kentucky suffer higher mortality rates than older translocated elk, the population growth observed during the initial years of restoration may be temporary. Additional research is necessary ...