cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Phasic respiratory modulation of pharyngeal collapsibility via neuromuscular mechanisms in rats

Obstructive sleep apnea patients experience recurrent upper airway (UA) collapse due to decreases in the UA dilator muscle activity during sleep. In contrast, activation of UA dilators reduces pharyngeal critical pressure (Pcrit, an index of pharyngeal collapsibility), suggesting an inverse relationship between pharyngeal collapsibility and dilator activity. Since most UA muscles display phasic respiratory activity, we hypothesized that pharyngeal collapsibility is modulated by respiratory drive via neuromuscular mechanisms. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were anesthetized, vagotomized, and ventilated (normocapnia). In one group, integrated genioglossal activity, Pcrit, and maximal airflow (Vmax) were measured at three expiration and five inspiration time points within the breathing cycle. Pcrit was closely and inversely related to phasic genioglossal activity, with the value measured at peak inspiration being the lowest. In other groups, the variables were measured during expiration and peak inspiration, before and after each of five manipulations. Pcrit was 26% more negative (−15.0 ± 1.0 cmH2O, −18.9 ± 1.2 cmH2O; n = 23), Vmax was 7% larger (31.0 ± 1.0 ml/s, 33.2 ± 1.1 ml/s), nasal resistance was 12% bigger [0.49 ± 0.05 cmH2O/(ml/s), 0.59 ± 0.05 cmH2O/(ml/s)], and latency to induced UA closure was 14% longer (55 ± 4 ms, 63 ± 5 ms) during peak inspiration vs. expiration (all P < 0.005). The expiration-inspiration difference in Pcrit was abolished with neuromuscular blockade, hypocapnic apnea, or death but was not reduced by the superior laryngeal nerve transection or altered by tracheal displacement. Collectively, these results suggest that pharyngeal collapsibility is moment-by-moment modulated by respiratory drive and this phasic modulation requires neuromuscular mechanisms, but not the UA negative pressure reflex or tracheal displacement by phasic lung inflation.
Non-perturbative theory of harmonic generation under a high-intensity laser field

We briefly review the theory of harmonic generation. The harmonic distributions with and without the incoherent part are discussed. The time-dependent Schrodinger equation (TDSE) for He with a model potential is solved on a numerical grid. The effects of intermediate-state resonance and of the ionization of He upon the harmonic generation are investigated. The photoelectron spectrum under resonant conditions is obtained in order to verify our arguments of resonant harmonic generation. We also evaluate the contribution of He+ when the laser intensity is sufficiently high for most of the atoms to be ionized during the laser pulse. We find that the harmonics with order higher than 13 are due to the ion when the photon energy is 5 eV, while for photon energy 2 eV the atom produces up to about the 49th harmonic.
Rate of Early Growth in Domestic Fowl

Abstract INTRODUCTION IN 1949 a study was begun to determine hybrid vigor in standardbred and crossbred chickens at twelve weeks of age or one arbitrary point in the early growth of domestic fowl. Using Yates’ method of weighted squares of means (Snedecor, 1946), Brant (1949) found statistically significant differences among the mean weights of eight male groups. With one exception he found no significant differences between the mean weights of corresponding female groups. This interesting finding suggested a more extended study of weight for successive points in time or early growth in chickens. Moreover, interest was aroused in the author as to the feasibility of using males and/or females and as to the feasibility of using crossbreds and/or standardbreds to measure differences in early growth responses of birds fed a standard diet. Aside from the fact that literature in the field of poultry science abounds with studies of early growth of . . .
Effects of Cannabinoids on Ion Channels of Pancreatic Beta Cells

The function of the beta cell of the pancreatic islet is to sense minute changes in blood glucose levels and secrete insulin to maintain euglycemia. Though this secretion is governed chiefly by glucose, other chemical factors such as insulin itself and the incretin hormones also modulate this function. Peliminary evidence in our lab indicates that endocannabinoids are important negative regulators of insulin secretion. Beta cells are electrically excitable and undergo depolarization upon glucose stimulated insulin secretion resulting from closure of the K(ATP) channels. As a consequence, the calcium channels open, intracellular levels of calcium rise and exocytosis of the insulin secretory granules occurs. In addition to the K(ATP) channels and the calcium channels, beta cells also possess an array of ion channels that generate the complex electrical waveforms and participate to varying degrees in the regulation of the membrane potential.Using rodent beta cells we investigated the effects of cannabinoids on some of these ion channels. Thus, 10 μM 2-arachidonylglycerol (2-AG) decreased the amplitude of the delayed rectifier current by about 40%. Simple washing did not reverse this blockade, and the addition of the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) antagonist AM 251 (1 μ) also had no effect. However, the blockade was completely reversed by washing with lipid free bovine serum albumin. Moreover, the CB1 agonist, WIN-55,212-2(1 μM ), an indole derivative structurally unrelated to the lipid 2-AG, had no antagonistic effect on the delayed rectifier. Taken together, these results suggest that the block was independent of the CB1 receptor and was mediated instead via the plasma membrane. Cannabinoid blockade of both sodium and HVA calcium currents were similar to the effects on the delayed rectifier.
Flight simulators for under $100000

To demonstrate the feasibility and practicability of designing and building low-cost flight simulators, a prototype system was developed to model the performance of a new US Army remotely piloted missile system. The flight simulator displays a dynamic, three-dimensional, out-the-window view of the terrain in real time while responding to operator input from the command and control system. A description is given of the hardware, software, and database implementations. The system capabilities and limitations are examined. The total development cost is an order of magnitude less than that of the sophisticated systems currently in use. >
Genetic Differences Among Categories of Service Sires

Abstract Service status was determined for Holstein sires in service from 1971 through 1984. Categories were defined by sire's sampling status (AI vs. non-AI) and whether sire was proven at time of use (young vs. proven). A sire's category could change over time. Genetic merit was the latest PD milk through January 1988. For each service year, minimum sire usage limits were set so that service sires were representative of the category; e.g., young sires in AI sampling were required to have at least 20 daughters in USDA pedigree files from services in a given year. Although 80% or more of sires were non-AI, 80% or more of services were AI. Use of AI increased across years, and a higher percentage of active AI sires were from AI sampling. The AI sires were 211 kg superior to non-AI sires for PD milk and 292 kg higher on a weighted basis (i.e., considering differential usage). Differential usage raised average of active AI sires by about 90 kg compared with simple mean across sires. Sires in AI sampling were of essentially equal merit to active AI sires, which suggests that they would average at percentile 50, but active AI sires were higher by an average of 108 kg if differential usage was considered.
Orthogonal Channel Coding for Simultaneous Co- and Cross-Polarization Measurements

Abstract Dual-polarization weather radars typically measure the radar reflectivity at more than one polarization state for transmission and reception. Historically, dual-polarization radars have been operated at copolar and cross-polar states defined with respect to the transmit polarization states. Recently, based on the improved understanding of the propagation properties of electromagnetic waves in precipitation media, the simultaneous transmit and receive (STAR) mode has become common to simplify the hardware. In the STAR mode of operation, horizontal and vertical polarization states are transmitted simultaneously and samples of both horizontal and vertical copolar returns are obtained. A drawback of the current implementation of STAR mode is its inability to measure parameters obtained from cross-polar signals such as linear depolarization ratio (LDR). In this paper, a technique to obtain cross-polar signals with STAR mode waveform is presented. In this technique, the horizontally and vertically pola...
Diabetes: Low HbA1c levels and mortality in type 2 diabetes mellitus.

A novel study published in The Lancet suggests a U-shaped association between HbA1c levels and mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. But is a revision of current guidelines to include a minimum HbA1c target advisable on the basis of these findings?
EARLY BUD-BREAK 1 (EBB1) is a regulator of release from seasonal dormancy in poplar trees

Trees from temperate latitudes transition between growth and dormancy to survive dehydration and freezing stress during winter months. We used activation tagging to isolate a dominant mutation affecting release from dormancy and identified the corresponding gene EARLY BUD-BREAK 1 (EBB1). We demonstrate through positioning of the tag, expression analysis, and retransformation experiments that EBB1 encodes a putative APETALA2/Ethylene responsive factor transcription factor. Transgenic up-regulation of the gene caused early bud-flush, whereas down-regulation delayed bud-break. Native EBB1 expression was highest in actively growing apices, undetectable during the dormancy period, but rapidly increased before bud-break. The EBB1 transcript was localized in the L1/L2 layers of the shoot meristem and leaf primordia. EBB1-overexpressing transgenic plants displayed enlarged shoot meristems, open and poorly differentiated buds, and a higher rate of cell division in the apex. Transcriptome analyses of the EBB1 transgenics identified 971 differentially expressed genes whose expression correlated with the EBB1 expression changes in the transgenic plants. Promoter analysis among the differentially expressed genes for the presence of a canonical EBB1-binding site identified 65 putative target genes, indicative of a broad regulatory context of EBB1 function. Our results suggest that EBB1 has a major and integrative role in reactivation of meristem activity after winter dormancy.
Bounds on current collection from the far field by plasma clouds in the ionosphere

Plasma clouds can enhance the collection of current to a charged body in the ionosphere in two ways. The first is by providing a large collection area for ionospheric electrons to be collected. The second is by ionization of neutral gas in the vicinity of the plasma cloud. The collection of electrons across a magnetic field is examined, and it is shown that the effective collection area is limited to the region of the cloud where the magnetic field effects are overwhelmed by the electric field effects from the charged body. Upper and lower bounds are obtained for the radius of the core region where the electric field influence dominates. From these, upper and lower bounds are obtained for the current collection.
Multi-valley high-field transport in 2-dimensional MoS 2 transistors

In this study we investigate for the first time both low-and high-field transport in few-layer MoS 2 transistors using a two-valley band structure [Fig. 1], by combining simulations and experimental data [5]. We find that taking into account both the K and Q conduction band valley (with the Q valley along K to Γ being ΔE ≈ 0.13 eV higher) is necessary in order to understand all transport regimes. This finding clarifies the results of several theoretical band structure studies [6-8], which until now showed disagreement about this inter-valley separation. We demonstrate that a two-valley band structure and device self-heating should be taken into account to understand a wide range of transport in MoS 2 transistors. Our results also help clarify the band structure of MoS 2 as relevant for a variety of applications. This work was supported in part by NSF and STARnet/SONIC.
OPTIMAL SEPARABLE BASES AND SERIES EXPANSIONS

A method is proposed for the efficient calculation of the Green's functions and eigenstates for quantum systems of two or more dimensions. For a given Hamiltonian, the best possible separable approximation is obtained from the set of all Hilbert-space operators. It is shown that this determination itself, as well as the solution of the resultant approximation, is a problem of reduced dimensionality. Moreover, the approximate eigenstates constitute the optimal separable basis, in the sense of self-consistent field theory. The full solution is obtained from the approximation via iterative expansion. In the time-independent perturbation expansion for instance, all of the first-order energy corrections are zero. In the Green's function case, we have a distorted-wave Born series with optimized convergence properties. This series may converge even when the usual Born series diverges. Analytical results are presented for an application of the method to the two-dimensional shifted harmonic-oscillator system, in the course of which the quantum ${\mathrm{tanh}}^{2}$ potential problem is solved exactly. The universal presence of bound states in the latter is shown to imply long-lived resonances in the former. In a comparison with other theoretical methods, we find that the reaction path Hamiltonian fails to predict such resonances.
The DSM Guided Cannabis Screen (DSM-G-CS): description, reliability, factor structure and empirical scoring with a clinical sample.

Abstract Clinicians need cannabis-specific diagnostic screens compatible with DSM-IV-TR and proposed DSM-5. A clinical sample (n = 174) completed the DSM-Guided-Cannabis Screen (DSM-G-CS) 21 and 11 criteria versions and three drug comparison measures. DSM-G-CS descriptive statistics, reliabilities, three factor analyses, and eight ROC and discriminant analyses evaluated construct validity and empirical scoring. DSM-G-CS reliabilities are .88 (21-items) and .85 (11-criteria). Factor analyses (FA) with varimax rotation derived six and three factors explaining 62% to 60% of variances for the DSM-G-CS 21 and 11 respectively, with ≥.400 loadings supporting retention of all items. Cannabis withdrawal subscale reliability .952 (10-items) and FA supported one factor composite item. ROC and discriminant analyses supports DSM-G-CS 1.5 to 2.5 scoring cutoffs as empirically sound, based upon sensitivity–specificity maximums, accuracy probabilities, confidence levels and correctly classified percentages, optimal with Marijuana Screening Inventory (MSI) comparisons. Results support DSM-G-CS construct validity, empirical scoring and compatibility with DSM-IV-TR cannabis abuse or dependence and proposed DSM-5 cannabis use disorder diagnostic models. Clinically, DSM-G-CS scores of two to three (or more) suggest probable cannabis-use disorder, deserving assessment to determine diagnostic accuracy.
The Photoelectron Spectrum of Pyrrolide: Nonadiabatic Effects due to Conical Intersections †

The negative ion photoelectron spectrum of the pyrrolide-h4 anion and the completely deuterated analogue, pyrrolide-d4, are computed employing the multimode vibronic coupling approach, based on a two-state, fully quadratic, quasi-diabatic Hamiltonian, Hd, which accurately represents the vicinity of the ab initio determined equilibrium geometry of the ground 2A2 state as well as the minimum energy crossing point (MECP) on the symmetry-allowed 2A2−2B1 accidental seam of conical intersection. The ab initio data are obtained from multireference configuration interaction wave functions based on triple-ζ quality atomic orbital bases. The determined photoelectron spectra, which are converged with respect to the vibronic basis, compare favorably with previous spectroscopic results, for pyrrolide-h4. The principal impact of the seam of conical intersection is a significant perturbation of the portion of the spectrum attributable to the 2B1 state, in agreement with previous analyses. However, despite the fact that ...
A mechanistic study of evolvability using the mitogen-activated protein kinase cascade.

SUMMARY Evolvability is a function of the way genetic variation interacts with the mechanisms that produce the phenotype. We explore an explicitly mechanistic way of studying the evolvability of phenotypes that are produced by a relatively simple genetic mechanism, the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade. We developed a quantitative model of MAPK activation that can be used to study the effects of genetic variation on the various components of this signaling cascade. We show how some standard tools of applied mathematics, such as steady-state formulations and nondimensionalization, can be used to elucidate the relative importance of variation in each gene of this mechanism. We also give insights into non-intuitive patterns of dependence and trade-off among the genes. The mechanism produces several different phenotypes (ultrasensitivity to stimulation, switch-like behavior, amount of MAPK-PP delivered, persistence of MAPK-PP activity), each of which is sensitive to different (but partially overlapping) combinations of genes. We show that the mechanism imposes clear limitations on the evolvability of each of the different phenotypes of the pathway, even in the presence of genetic variation in the components of the mechanism. This approach to the study of evolvability is generally applicable and complements the traditional approach through statistical genetics by providing a mechanistic understanding of the genetic interactions that produce the phenotype.
Nerve growth factor (NGF) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) are present in mouse milk during early lactation

NGF is important for the differentiation and maintenance of the sympathetic nervous system and EGF promotes eyelid opening, tooth eruption and maturation of the intestine in newborn mice. Both growth factors are present in high concentrations in mouse submandibular gland (SMG) and distributed in lesser amounts in many mouse and human body fluids and tissues. The present study was conducted to prove the biological activity of milk-NGF and to characterize the ontogeny of NGF and EGF and molecular profile of EGF in early lactation in normal and sialoadenoectomized mice to determine whether the SMG contributes significantly to milk growth factors. Concentrations of NGF, determined by RIA, did not change from day 1 to day 9 of lactation (600 pg/mg protein) and were not different in sialoadenoectomized mice. Biological activity was proven by PC-12 bioassay after partial purification. EGF showed only one component, similar to SMG-EGF (MW 6045), in gel exclusion chromatography, but removal of the SMG did not change the concentration which peaked around day 6 of lactation (10 ng/mg protein). Conclusion: Growth factors are present in significant concentrations in mouse milk and the SMG is not their origin.
Effects of centrifugation leukapheresis with hydroxyethyl starch on the complement system of granulocyte donors

In granulocyte donors during centrifugation leukapheresis (CL), total hemolytic complement, Clq, C3, factor B, and properdin decreased, but only to the extent expected from hemodilution. Crossed immunoelectrophoresis showed no C3 conversion in plasma obtained from the leukapheresis appeared during CL or in donor plasma immediately after CL. When serum was incubated with hydroxyethyl starch, total hemolytic complement did not decrease and C3 conversion was not detected by crossed immunoelectrophoresis. This investigation revealed no evidence that complement activation is associated with CL.
Numerical Laplace‐Fourier transform inversion technique for layered‐soil consolidation problems: I. Fundamental solutions and validation

A numericl method for solving consolidation problems of layered soils is developed. Starting from the governing differential equations for the coupled poro-elastic medium, the governing partial differential equations are reduced to ordinary differential equations by means of the appropriate displacement functions and Laplace-Fourier transformation. Once the fundamental solution in the transformed domain has been found, the solution in the physical domain is obtained by numerically inverting the transformations. A series of soil consolidation problems have been solved and validated against existing solutions in order to compare the feasibility and the accuracy of the present technique.
A comparison of the proteoglycans synthesized in Meckel's and sternal cartilage from normal and nanomelic chick embryos

Proteoglycan synthesis in Meckel's cartilage, a mesectodermal derivative of neural crest origin, is analyzed in normal and mutant nanomelic chick embryos.In vitro synthesis of chondroitin sulfate by Meckel's cartilage chondrocytes from mutant embryos is 12% of normal levels. Molecular sieve chromatography and sucrose gradient analysis of proteoglycans show that this decrease in chondroitin sulfate synthesis is limited to that fraction of molecules which is specific for cartilaginous tissues. The sedimentation rate of the proteoglycan monomer from normal Meckel's cartilage is slightly greater than that from normal sternal cartilage. The glycosaminoglycans from the normal Meckel's monomer have a greater charge density than those from normal sternal monomer. Both Meckel's and sternal proteoglycans from normal embryos can be aggregated with hyaluronic acid and probably represent a class of cartilage-specific proteoglycans which are genetically distinct from a slower sedimenting population of proteoglycans found in fibroblastic type cells. It appears from the analysis on sternal nanomelic cartilage that these chondrocytes are capable of synthesizing small amounts of the cartilage-specific proteoglycans.
588 BEHAVIOR AND DEVELOPMENT OF IRON DEFICIENT ANEMIC IN- FANTS

To assess effects of iron deficiency on behavior and development, 75 healthy 6-24 month old urban Guatemalan babies with and without mild iron deficiency anemia were compared with the Bayley Scales in a double-blind study. Initial mental and physical development scores (MDI, PDI) of anemic infants were significantly lower, especially in older babies (19-24 month olds). On the Infant Behavior Record anemic infants were more fearful, tense and less socially responsive, active, persistent and reactive. On the Mental Scale older anemic infants failed language comprehension and expression and eye-hand coordination items significantly more than the non-anemic group. There were no significant differences between anemic and non-anemic groups in birth histories, socioeconomic level or nutritional status to explain the lower scores. Short-term oral iron therapy did not change infant behavior, and developmental test score deficits persisted. In the absence of treatment effects, the findings cannot unequivocably be attributed to iron lack. Yet iron deficiency anemia was the only characteristic found to distinquish infant groups. The results of this study suggest that mild iron deficiency anemia may be an unrecognized risk factor for developmental impairment in millions of infants.
Mode coupling theory for the rotational diffusion constant

Abstract A mode-coupling theory is presented for D rot , the rotational diffusion coefficient. The theory helps explain the role of hydrodynamic theories of D rot for small molecules. A comparison of the theory with those other authors is given, and some new experiments are suggested.
Nucleophilic Attack on an Electronically Unsaturated Triosmium Cluster Complex of 2-Methylbenzoxazole: An Unusual Oxidative Ring Opening

In the course of our studies of nucleophilic attack on electronically unsaturated benzoheterocycle triosmium clusters we have studied the reaction of the 2-methylbenzoxazole complex (μ-H)Os3(CO)9(μ3-η2-2-CH3–C7H3NO) (1) with hydride followed by protonation with acid. In sharp contrast to our previous studies with related benzoheterocycle triosmium clusters, where the nature of the heterocycle controls the regiochemistry of nucleophilic attack, we observe here an unusual ring opening of the heterocyclic ring, coupled with rearrangement of the carbocyclic ring to a 2-imino-ethyl-phenol complex (μ-H)Os3(CO)9(μ3-η3-N=CHCH3–C6H3(OH)) (2). Deuterium labeling experiments verify initial attack by hydride at the 2-position followed by protonation at oxygen. Reaction of 1 with two equivalents of hydride followed by two equivalents of acid results in reduction of the C=N bond in 2 and on standing in air, oxidation of the carbocyclic ring occurs to give the 2-ethyl-amino hydroquinolyl derivative (μ-H)Os3(CO)9(μ3-η3-NHCH2CH3–C6H3(2-O)(5-OH)) (3). The solid-state structure of 3 is reported and a plausible mechanism, supported by deuterium labeling experiments, is presented, for the formation of 2 and 3.
Abnormal middle ear pressures during experimental influenza A virus infection--role of Eustachian tube function.

Abstract Introduction: Experimental infection of adults with influenza A virus, rhinovirus or RSV causes abnormal ME pressure in some, but not all subjects. The hypothesis tested in this study is that the response variability is caused by constitutional differences in the functioning of the Eustachian tube. Methods: 18 adult subjects were experimentally infected with influenza A virus. On five occasions before virus exposure, middle ear pressure (by tympanometry) and Eustachian tube function (by sonotubometry) were recorded bilaterally. Tests were repeated on days 1 through 8 and 10 after infection. Individual ears were classified with respect to the number of pre-exposure, positive sonotubometric testings and the middle ear pressure response to infection was compared between ears with Eustachian tube openings at all pre-infection test sessions (GR-A) and those with at least one negative test (GR-B). Results: Pre-exposure, 19, six, four, four, one and two ears had tubal openings on five, four, three, two, one and zero sessions, respectively. For that period, GR-A had significantly lesser average intra-ear and intra-group middle ear pressure variances compared to GR-B, but there were no between-group differences in the average middle ear pressure or in the number of observations of abnormal middle ear pressure. After virus exposure, middle ear pressure variances and the number of abnormal observations increased and the average pressure decreased in both groups, but the effects were more pronounced for GR-B ears. Conclusions: These results support the hypothesis that pre-existing good Eustachian tube function reduces the otological complications of viral upper respiratory tract infection.
Genetic consequences of trumpeter swan (Cygnus buccinator) reintroductions

Relocation programs are often initiated to restore threatened species to previously occupied portions of their range. A primary challenge of restoration efforts is to translocate individuals in a way that prevents loss of genetic diversity and decreases differentiation relative to source populations—a challenge that becomes increasingly difficult when remnant populations of the species are already genetically depauperate. Trumpeter swans were previously extirpated in the entire eastern half of their range. Physical translocations of birds over the last 70 years have restored the species to portions of its historical range. Despite the long history of management, there has been little monitoring of the genetic outcomes of these restoration attempts. We assessed the consequences of this reintroduction program by comparing patterns of genetic variation at 17 microsatellite loci across four restoration flocks (three wild-released, one captive) and their source populations. We found that a wild-released population established from a single source displayed a trend toward reduced genetic diversity relative to and significant genetic differentiation from its source population, though small founder population effects may also explain this pattern. Wild-released flocks restored from multiple populations maintained source levels of genetic variation and lacked significant differentiation from at least one of their sources. Further, the flock originating from a single source revealed significantly lower levels of genetic variation than those established from multiple sources. The distribution of genetic variation in the captive flock was similar to its source. While the case of trumpeter swans provides evidence that restorations from multiple versus single source populations may better preserve natural levels of genetic diversity, more studies are needed to understand the general applicability of this management strategy.
Value‐Added Agricultural Enterprises and Local Economic Performance

Proponents of value-added agricultural enterprises (VAAE) argue for favorable government policies and funds to promote these industries as a local development strategy. Though regularly advocated at all levels of government, the beliefs regarding the benefits of VAAE to local economies merit empirical investigation. A county-level analysis of the contiguous U.S. states for a ten-year time period was used to evaluate the contribution of selected VAAE to county economic well-being. The two-stage least squares regression coupled with spatial econometric methods suggests that the support for these selected VAAE as a tool of local economic well-being, measured using income and employment growth and change in poverty rates, is not well founded.
The T complex distorter 2 candidate gene, Dnahc8, encodes at least two testis-specific axonemal dynein heavy chains that differ extensively at their amino and carboxyl termini.

Abstract Homozygosity for the t haplotype allele of the testis-specifically expressed axonemal dynein heavy chain (axDHC) gene, Dnahc8, has been linked to male sterility resulting from aberrant sperm motility. However, the near absence of Dnahc8 expression has been associated with male sterility resulting from an early breakdown in sperm flagellar development. Although axDHCs are integral participants in flagellar motility, a role in flagellar morphogenesis has never been attributed to a member of this highly conserved gene family. To gain a better understanding of this presumed novel role for Dnahc8, we have studied the organization and expression of full-length Dnahc8+ and Dnahc8t transcripts. Our results demonstrate the existence of at least two alternatively spliced, testis-specific Dnahc8 mRNAs transcribed from both the + and t alleles. A highly expressed isoform encodes a protein with significant homology nearly throughout to the γ heavy chain of the Chlamydomonas axonemal outer arm dynein, while a more poorly expressed isoform codes for a protein whose sequence diverges significantly from that of other axDHCs at both its N and C termini. While in situ hybridization studies demonstrate that both mRNA species accumulate exclusively in mid to late spermatocytes, each isoform shows spatial independence. Additional experiments demonstrate the existence of a testis-expressed mRNA with no significant open reading frame, a portion of which is antisense to the 5′-untranslated region of the highly divergent Dnahc8 isoform. The cumulative data imply that Dnahc8 may have acquired functional plasticity in the testis through the tightly controlled expression of both typical and unusual isoforms.
Solitary wave solution of the Zakharov–Kuznetsov equation in plasmas with power law nonlinearity

Abstract In this paper, we obtain an exact 1-soliton solution of the Zakharov–Kuznetsov equation, with power law nonlinearity, by the solitary wave ansatz method. A couple of conserved quantities of this equation are also calculated by using this 1-soliton solution.
Seasonal Ovipositional Status of Field Populations of Female Stable Flies (Diptera: Muscidae) in Cattle Feedlots as Measured by Two Sampling Methods

The ovipositional status of field populations of adult stable flies, Stomoxys calcitrans (L.), in cattle feedlots was investigated for 3 yr in southeast Nebraska. The proportions of female flies in each of three ovipositional stages (nulliparous, uniparous, and biparous) collected by two sampling methods (a stanchioned-calf technique and Alsynite fiberglass traps) at three times of day at two cattle feedlots were compared. In 2 of the 3 yr of the study, location (Feedlots A, B, or C), time of sampling (0800, 1100, and 1400 hours), and method of collection did not affect significantly the proportions of female stable flies in each ovipositional stage. During the 3 yr of the study, nulliparity was the predominant ovipositional stage. At the time of population peaks of adult stable flies, the majority of female stable flies were nulliparous, which indicates that the population peaks are caused by young flies that had recently emerged. More than 97.0% of the female flies collected during this study had immature eggs. We concluded that both methods sampled the same population of female stable flies: each method has strengths for different types of ecological studies. Also, we feel that increasing stable fly populations at any feedlot develop on site and are not a result of immigration. Furthermore, at beef cattle feedlots, most adult female stable flies do not live much beyond one egg cycle.
Is a change in the vaginal flora associated with an increased risk of preterm birth

Objective The purpose of this study was to determine if a change in the vaginal flora was associated with an increased risk of preterm birth, and to determine if metronidazole therapy before 32 weeks increased the risk of preterm birth. Study design We compared cultures taken at 23 to 26 weeks of gestation with cultures taken at delivery from women enrolled in the Vaginal Infections and Preterm Birth study to analyze the association of changes in the vaginal flora with preterm birth. Results Metronidazole therapy before 32 weeks was associated with an increased risk of preterm birth (OR 1.5, 95%CI 1.05-2.1) in an unadjusted model. A change to heavy growth of Escherichia coli or Klebsiella pneumoniae at delivery was found to be associated with preterm birth (OR 2.4, 95%CI 1.6-3.8). After controlling for race, parity, prepregnancy weight Trichomonas vaginalis, bacterial vaginosis, chlamydia, mycoplasmas, group B streptococcus, metronidazole therapy before 32 weeks, vaginal pH >5.0, and an increase in E coli or K pneumoniae , only prepregnancy weight E coli or K pneumoniae in the vagina at delivery (AOR 2.99, 95%CI 1.37-6.53) were found to be significantly associated with preterm birth. Conclusion An increase in E coli or K pneumoniae in the vagina is an independent risk factor for preterm birth. Changes in the vaginal flora may explain the increased risk of preterm birth seen with vaginal clindamycin or oral metronidazole therapy.
Enhanced Vehicle Identification Utilizing Sensor Fusion and Statistical Algorithms

Several studies in the area of vehicle detection and identification involve the use of probabilistic analysis and sensor fusion. While several sensors utilized for identifying vehicle presence and proximity have been researched, their effectiveness in identifying vehicle types has remained inadequate. This study presents the utilization of an ultrasonic sensor coupled with a magnetic sensor and the development of statistical algorithms to overcome this limitation. Mathematical models of both the ultrasonic and magnetic sensors were constructed to first understand the intrinsic characteristics of the individual sensors and also to provide a means of simulating the performance of the combined sensor system and to facilitate algorithm development. Preliminary algorithms that utilized this sensor fusion were developed to make inferences relating to vehicle proximity as well as type. It was noticed that while it helped alleviate the limitations of the individual sensors, the algorithm was affected by high occurrences of false positives. Also, since sensors carry only partial information about the surrounding environment and their measured quantities are partially corrupted with noise, probabilistic techniques were employed to extend the preliminary algorithms to include these sensor characteristics. These statistical techniques were utilized to reconstruct partial state information provided by the sensors and to also filter noisy measurement data. This probabilistic approach helped to effectively utilize the advantages of sensor fusion to further enhance the reliability of inferences made on vehicle identification. In summary, the study investigated the enhancement of vehicle identification through the use of sensor fusion and statistical techniques. The algorithms developed showed encouraging results in alleviating the occurrences of false positive inferences. One of the several applications of this study is in the use of ultrasonic-magnetic sensor combination for advanced traffic monitoring such as smart toll booths.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Geldanamycin-Induced Destabilization of Raf-1 Involves the Proteasome

The Raf-1-MEK-MAPK pathway plays an important role in transducing extracellular growth factor signaling into altered nuclear transcription factor function. The benzoquinone ansamycin Geldanamycin (GA) specifically binds to the heat shock protein HSP90 and alters its complex with Raf-1. This leads to a decrease in Raf-1 levels and to disruption of the Raf-1-MEK-MAPK signaling pathway. The enhanced degradation of Raf-1 protein was prevented by inhibitors of the proteasome, while inhibition of lysosomal or other proteases was ineffective. Raf-1 that was protected from GA-induced degradation was of higher molecular weight and showed a laddering pattern consistent with its polyubiquitination. Unlike Raf-1 in untreated cells, the protein was insoluble in Triton X100- or NP40-based buffers. Signaling through this pathway was inhibited by GA, concomitant with loss of Raf-1 protein, but was restored if Raf-1 was protected from GA-induced degradation by proteasome inhibitors.
When vibrations interact: ultrafast energy relaxation of vibrational pairs in polyatomic liquids

Abstract The ultrafast IR–Raman technique is used to compare picosecond timescale vibrational energy relaxation (VR) of a polyatomic liquid, acetonitrile (CH 3 CN), following excitation of either a C–H stretching fundamental (∼3000 cm −1 ) or a pair of vibrations at about the same energy, the CN stretch and C–C stretch. When the vibrational pair is excited via combination band pumping, the CN stretch lifetime decreases by more than an order of magnitude, and an oscillation is observed in the C–C stretch population. These studies of a pair of interacting vibrations on the same molecule provide insight into the complex behavior expected from vibrationally excited nascent products of chemical reactions of condensed-phase polyatomic molecules.
Prototype base curve attachment for the topographer: What will replace the vanishing radiuscope?

Abstract Background With the disappearance of the radiuscope, alternative methods must be developed to accurately measure gas-permeable (GP) lenses. The purpose of this study was to design, manufacture, and test a novel attachment for the evaluation of spherical base curves of GP rigid contact lenses using a corneal topographer. Methods A topographer attachment was devised with the intent of measuring the surface radii of GP lenses. A front-surface mirror was fixed at a 45° angle above a hemispherical GP lens mount taken from a radiuscope. The device was set in the chin rest of a Humphrey Atlas topographer (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Inc., Jena, Germany) such that the image from the back of a GP surface was focused. The base curve radii of 9 rigid polymer buttons nominally ranging from 5.00 mm to 9.00 mm in 0.5-mm steps were measured 3 times with a Neitz Auto CG (Neitz Instruments Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan), Reichert Radiuscope (Reichert Ophthalmic Instruments, Depew, New York), and Humphrey Atlas topographer using the base curve (BC) attachment. Results An analysis of variance with replication and without interaction, using the main effects of measurement method (n = 5) and nominal button radius (n = 9), found that there was no statistically significant effect of the base curve measurement method (F[4, 122] = 1.23; P = 0.303), although there was a statistically significant effect of nominal button radius (F[8, 122] = 4.70; P = 0.003). Conclusions Although the optical system of the corneal topographer was designed for measurement of convex surfaces, measurement of base curve radii from concave surfaces was performed without a correction factor using the prototype attachment. The mean SimK and Axial radii were within the tolerance for GP base curve radius, 0.05 mm, cited in ANSI Z80.20-2004 and ISO 18369-2:2006. Thus, the clinical feasibility of this prototype BC attachment to support measurement of spherical base curve radii for GP lenses by a corneal topographer was demonstrated.
Vortex-Induced Response of a Flexible Cylinder in a Sheared Current

Dans cet article on met en evidence une methode par la prevision approximative par la prevision des methodes statiques et de remontee d'un cylindre flexible dans un courant variable unidimensionnel. Ces previsions sont basees sur des informations derivees de resultats experimentaux. Application notamment avec tubes prolongateurs
Angle-resolved X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy study of the oxides on Nb surfaces for superconducting r.f. cavity applications

Abstract Angle-resolved X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy is used to study the oxidation of chemically etched, polycrystalline Nb surfaces and thermal effects on the oxide layer. Annealing the sample at 250 °C does not remove the oxide layer but simply changes the oxide composition from a Nb 2 O 5 -dominated layer to a Nb 2 O-dominated one through oxygen diffusion. The latter is stable in ultrahigh vacuum and metallic in nature. For oxygen diffusion into the bulk at 250 °C, estimations are made of the composition of the oxygen-enriched metal layer and the density change of this layer due to interstitial oxygen. Room temperature re-oxidation of the annealed surface follows similar kinetics as the oxidation of as-etched surfaces. Nb 2 O 5 is simply re-generated in the existing oxide layer by inward oxygen diffusion starting out from the oxide surface. It is demonstrated that the electric field-assisted, Cabrera–Mott mechanism operates in the initial Nb surface oxidation. Its effectiveness diminishes quickly as the insulating oxide layer grows over 3 nm. The existing electric field is evidenced by the shifts in the binding energy of Nb 2 O 5 towards that of Nb metal, indicating a potential drop across the oxide.
A New Method in Optical Interferometry

A new, rapid, and accurate method for obtaining the order of interference in a Fabry-Perot etalon is discussed. Apparatus for using the method in calibrating end standards is described. Possible improvements and application to other measurements such as wavelength determinations are pointed out.
Euphausiid distribution along the Western Antarctic Peninsula—Part B: Distribution of euphausiid aggregations and biomass, and associations with environmental features

Abstract The distribution of euphausiids ( Euphausia spp.) in the continental shelf region in and around Marguerite Bay, west of the Antarctic Peninsula, was studied in relation to aspects of the physical and biological environment. Acoustic, video, net, and environmental data were collected during surveys in the austral falls and winters of 2001 and 2002. Application of the analysis methods described in Lawson et al. [2008. Euphausiid distribution along the Western Antarctic Peninsula—Part A: Development of robust multi-frequency acoustic techniques to identify euphausiid aggregations and quantify euphausiid size, abundance, and biomass. Deep-Sea Research II, this issue] to acoustic survey data demonstrated strong seasonal, inter-annual, and spatial variability in krill distribution. The distribution of krill aggregations was characterized by many small aggregations closely spaced relative to one another, punctuated by much fewer aggregations of very large size that accounted for the majority of overall biomass in the region. The greatest number of aggregations was found at depths less than 100 m, but biomass was usually greatest at deeper depths. Similar biomass levels were estimated for both the fall surveys and the winter of 2002 survey, while biomass during the winter of 2001 was an order of magnitude smaller. During fall, biomass estimates vertically integrated over the sampled portion of the water column were negatively associated with chlorophyll a concentrations, and some suggestion was observed of highest biomass in regions of lowest current magnitude and horizontal current gradient. Generalized additive models indicated that highest krill biomass was consistently associated with regions close to land where the temperature maximum below 200 m depth was cooler than what was available over the shelf as a whole. Krill were thus not associated with regions where intrusions of warm and nutrient-rich circumpolar deep water onto the shelf were present, despite such intrusions being thought to be an important driver of primary productivity.
Comparison of mixed cultures based on activity

Biodegradation experiments using mixed bacterial cultures are difficult to compare because repeatable rates may not be produced in different experiments when cultures are normalized on a cell mass or number basis. A technique was therefore developed to quantify [14C]substrate-specific biodegradation activity of mixed cultures. The technique can be used to obtain a preliminary estimate of the substrate-degrading activity of a culture for more substantial experiments. The technique is applied to 1-naphthol-humic acid bioavailability experiments using both mixed and pure cultures to help isolate the impact of humic acid from differences between the cultures.
Using Water as an Infrared Solvent

To many infrared spectroscopists it may sound foolish to talk about using water as an infrared solvent. However, as early as 1949, R. C. Gore (1) described the very excellent results he obtained when using water and deuterium oxide as infrared solvents. Since then, little attention has been paid to this fact. Some spectroscopists, confronted with an infrared analysis of a water solution, will say: Impossible! Water dissolves the rock salt cell windows and is so strongly absorbing in the region from 2μ to 15μ that it obscures most of the absorption bands of any material dissolved in it. In spite of this, an attempt will be made to indicate the useful information that can be obtained from water solution spectra.
Association of Clostridium difficile Infections with Acid Suppression Medications in Children

Objective Multiple studies have confirmed associations between acid suppression medication and Clostridium difficile infections (CDIs) in adults. Therefore, we sought to evaluate an association between acid suppression medications and CDI in children. Study design A retrospective self-controlled case series was performed utilizing billing records from the TRICARE Management Activity military health system database. Children ages 2-18 years from October 1, 2001 to July 31, 2013, who had an outpatient or inpatient record of CDI diagnosis were included. The relative incidences (RIs) of CDI or recurrent CDI were calculated comparing time periods prescribed and not prescribed proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or histamine-2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs). Results There were 2531 cases of CDI among 2437 patients, and 1190 (48.8%) were prescribed acid suppression medications. CDI were more likely to occur during periods when patients were prescribed a PPI (RI 2.36; 95% CI 2.22-2.52), H2RA (RI 1.95; 95% CI 1.63-2.34), or during periods while prescribed both simultaneously (RI 2.40; 95% CI 1.90-3.04). There were 265 (10.4%) cases that were classified as recurrent among 217 (8.9%) patients. Recurrent CDI also was found to be more likely during prescription periods of PPI (RI 1.74; 95% CI 1.51-2.00) and H2RA (RI 2.63; 95% CI 1.89-3.66). Conclusions Acid suppression medications are associated with an increased risk of CDI and recurrent CDI. Judicious use of acid suppression medication should be considered, especially among those at highest risk for CDI.