cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Bindin, a multifunctional sperm ligand and the evolution of new species

Abstract Sea urchin sperm species-specifically adhere to the egg surface during fertilization. The protein which mediates this adhesion is known as bindin and cDNAs have recently been cloned and sequenced from several different species. Bindin proteins contain a highly conserved central domain flanked by much more highly divergent amino- and carboxyl-terminal domains. Investigations of the structure and function relationships indicate that the conserved domains may participate in membrane fusion and sulfated fucan binding activities, which may be conserved functions of bindin. The species-specific adhesion activity appears to be duplicated in both the amino- and carboxyl-terminal domain and may correspond to repeated sequence motifs found in these domains. The duplication of these sequence motifs and the redundancy of the adhesive domains may be important for the molecular mechanism of bindin evolution during speciation.
V2O5/single-walled carbon nanotube hybrid mesoporous films as cathodes with high-rate capacities for rechargeable lithium ion batteries

Abstract The hybrid films composed of V 2 O 5 nanoparticles and single-walled carbon nanotubes (V 2 O 5 /SWNT) with mesoporous structure are prepared using a simple floating CVD method followed by controllably hydrolytic deposition of V 2 O 5 nanoparticles. The hybrid films as cathodes for lithium ion batteries exhibit a high-rate capacity of 548 mAhg −1 at the discharge rate of 300 mAg −1 (∼1C); 342 mAhg −1 and 171 mAhg −1 at higher discharge rates of 1200 mAg −1 (∼4C) and 2400 mAg −1 (∼8C), which is attributed to the chemical interaction between the V 2 O 5 nanoparticle and the functional groups on the surface of SWNTs evidenced by the HRTEM and XPS results. It is also conclusively elucidated with detailed electrochemicl analysis that SWNTs can improve Li + diffusivity by 2 to 4 orders of magnitude to significantly facilitate lithium-ion transport, achieving an excellent electrochemical performance of the hybrid cathode system.
Critical temperature gradient and critical current density in thin films of a type I superconductor

Abstract Measurements of the critical temperature gradient and the critical current density in superconducting lead films in a transverse magnetic field indicate that the critical current flows predominantly along the surface of the films and that the critical surface currents contribute only very little to the Lorentz force on a fluxoid.
Enhancement of Human DNA Polymerase η Activity and Fidelity Is Dependent Upon a Bipartite Interaction with the Werner Syndrome Protein

We have investigated the interaction between human DNA polymerase η (hpol η) and the Werner syndrome protein (WRN). Functional assays revealed that the WRN exonuclease and RecQ C-terminal (RQC) domains are necessary for full stimulation of hpol η-catalyzed formation of correct base pairs. We find that WRN does not stimulate hpol η-catalyzed formation of mispairs. Moreover, the exonuclease activity of WRN prevents stable mispair formation by hpol η. These results are consistent with a proofreading activity for WRN during single-nucleotide additions. ATP hydrolysis by WRN appears to attenuate stimulation of hpol η. Pre-steady-state kinetic results show that kpol is increased 4-fold by WRN. Finally, pulldown assays reveal a bipartite physical interaction between hpol η and WRN that is mediated by the exonuclease and RQC domains. Taken together, these results are consistent with alteration of the rate-limiting step in polymerase catalysis by direct protein-protein interactions between WRN and hpol η. In summary, WRN improves the efficiency and fidelity of hpol η to promote more effective replication of DNA.
The Egg Cycle and the Ability of Recursive Models to Explain It

The often-discussed instability of the price of eggs is examined by use of spectral analysis, and the existence of an egg cycle is confirmed. In explaining the cycle, the familiar cobweb model is shown to be inferior to an alternative model. The alternative model, proposed by Nerlove, has producers planning changes in their production levels in response to prices, with the changes being realized only after a lag. Economic justifications are given for such producer behavior to continue' even though it causes instability. Recent destabilizing influences, not related to the cycle, are also discussed.
Doppler predictions of pulmonary artery pressure, flow, and resistance in adults☆

We examined the accuracy of noninvasive predictions of pulmonary artery pressure (P), flow (Q), and resistance (R) by means of main pulmonary artery blood velocities and diameters measured with Doppler echocardiography (DE). The ratio of noninvasive acceleration time to ejection time (An) was correlated to invasively determined mean pulmonary artery pressure (Pl) and resistance (Rl). Noninvasive flows were correlated to thermodilution flows (Ql). Simultaneous invasive and noninvasive measurements were made in nine adult patients (ages = 22 to 73 years). The results were: Pl = 87 - 152An, r = 0.90, SEE = 7 mm Hg, p less than 0.05; Rl = 899 - 1722An, r = 0.79, SEE = 121 dynes X sec X cm-5, p less than 0.05; and Ql = -0.3 + 1.21Qn, r = 0.95, SEE = 0.81 L X min-1, p less than 0.05. We then used these equations prospectively to predict Pl, Rl, and Ql in 21 of 25 (83% technically adequate) consecutive patients. Pl, Rl, and Ql ranged from 10 to 35 mm Hg, 39 to 456 dynes X sec X cm-5, and 3.51 to 8.39 L X min-1, respectively. Results were: Pl = 0.80P + 3, r = 0.72, SEE = 6 mm Hg, p less than 0.05; Rl = 0.75R - 12, r = 0.64, SEE = 77 dynes X sec X cm-5, p less than 0.005; and Ql = 0.87Q + 0.38, r = 0.83, SEE = 0.86 L X min-1, p less than 0.05. These results suggest that DE predictions of pulmonary artery pressure, flow, and resistance correlate significantly with values subsequently obtained at catheterization.
Laryngeal cancer after topical mitomycin C application

Mitomycin C is part of the mitomycin group of antibiotics and has found use in medicine in the treatment of various cancers, including those of the head and neck. In recent years, it has gained popularity as a topical treatment to prevent scar formation in the larynx and choanae in paediatric and adult inflammatory processes. Also, this alkylating agent is potentially a potent carcinogen. We report the first case in the world literature of laryngeal carcinoma in a non-smoking adult, which may have been induced by topical mitomycin C application to a glottic web. We discuss the mechanism of action of this drug, and we advise caution on its use for benign laryngeal pathologies.
Dynamics of small superconductors

Abstract A phenomenological model is discussed for the phase-slip process in small superconducting structures. In this model, Josephson type phenomena are developed without the concept of transport of flux quanta in the film, but arise from the localized periodic quenching of the superconducting wavefunction by an electric field.
2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin reduces the number, size, and organelle content of Leydig cells in adult rat testes

Exposure to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) alters testicular steroidogenesis and reduces total Leydig cell volume in the testis. However, its effect on Leydig cell number, size, and organelle content had not been determined in adult rats. Adult male rats received a single intraperitoneal injection of TCDD at a dose of 0, 12.5, 25.0, or 50.0 micrograms/kg body weight. Testicular tissues were obtained from rats 4 weeks after treatment. Testes were vascularly perfused with glutaraldehyde, embedded in Epon 812, sectioned at 0.5 micron, stained with toluidine blue, and evaluated by stereology for number and size of Leydig cells. Specimens from control and high dose groups were prepared for electron microscopy to quantify Leydig cell organelle content. TCDD treatment reduced (P < 0.01) body weight in a dose-dependent fashion. Testicular weight was not significantly reduced by TCDD treatment. The volume of Leydig cell cytoplasm per testis was reduced (P < 0.01) four weeks after treatment. Reduction in total Leydig cell volume resulted from a reduced (P < 0.05) number of Leydig cells and a reduced (P < 0.01) size of individual Leydig cells. However, the volume density (percentage) of Leydig cells occupied by specific organelles was not influenced by TCDD treatment. As a result of reduced total Leydig cell volume with no change in volume density of organelles in Leydig cells, the volumes per testis of smooth endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria were reduced (P < 0.01) by TCDD treatment. In conclusion, the TCDD-induced reduction in Leydig cell volume per testis is explained by reduced number and size of individual Leydig cells and resulted in a significant reduction in total volume of both Leydig cell smooth endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria per testis. Reduction in content of organelles that are responsible for various key steps in steroidogenesis, could explain TCDD-reduced production of testosterone in rats.
Gapped permutation pattern discovery for gene order comparisons.

The list of species whose complete DNA sequence have been read is growing steadily, and it is believed that comparative genomics is in its early days. Permutations patterns (groups of genes in some...
Riboflavin Requirement of Fingerling Rainbow Trout

Abstract Fingerling rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) were fed purified diets containing graded levels (0, 3, 6, 12, 18, 24, and 54 mg/kg) of supplemental riboflavin for 20 weeks. The cellular riboflavin supply of the fingerlings was estimated on the basis of the activity of the FAD-dependent enzyme, erythrocyte glutathione reductase (EGR). The dietary riboflavin level that produced the fastest growth, an efficient feed: gain ratio, and normal values for the EGR activity coefficient was about 3 mg of supplemental riboflavin per kilogram of diet.
Extrapyramidal signs and cognitive abilities in Alzheimer's disease.

Objective To evaluate whether the relationship between extrapyramidal signs (EPS) and cognitive disturbances in Alzheimer's disease (AD) is influenced by illness duration. Methods A multivariate regression analysis was used to study the relationships between EPS, illness duration and five cognitive ability areas based on the Mattis Dementia Rating Scale (DRS) in 89 clinically diagnosed AD patients with extrapyramidal motor involvement. Results Severity of EPS was statistically associated with performance on four cognitive ability areas from the DRS including: attention, initiation and perseveration, construction and memory. Age was a significant factor related to severity of EPS. However illness duration did not contribute to the strength of the association between EPS and cognitive disturbances in patients with AD. Conclusions The findings of the present study support the notion that while neuropsychological and motor functions often coexist in patients with AD, their relationship seems to be unrelated to degenerative processes that accumulate throughout the illness. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Genetic diseases of hemoglobin: diagnostic methods for elucidating β-thalassemia mutations

n the last two decades, a vast array of molecular tools for the diagnosis of genetic diseases of hemoglobin have been developed that allow definitive identification of the DNA mutations underlying each of these diverse but prevalent diseases. It is the purpose of this article to review these new tools which can be used for individual diagnoses, analyses of fetal tissue or in screening and epidemiological studies. Although these techniques have been developed in high technology settings, recent technical advances are making their application simpler and cheaper so that in the near future they will likely be available in many more parts of the world, especially those areas in which these diseases are most prevalent.This review updates previous reviews by Cao and Rosatelli, Embury and Cao et al., on the methodologies used to elucidate the various β-thalassemia genetic lesions. α-thalassemia syndromes have been reviewed elsewhere.
A model of eye movements and visual working memory during problem solving in geometry.

Abstract The Oculomotor Geometry Reasoning Engine (OGRE) was proposed to model eye movements and visual working memory during problem solving in geometry. OGRE postulates that geometrical elements from diagrams are added to visual working memory when they are scanned. Newly-added elements overwrite elements already in memory. The model was applied to eye-movement patterns of three subjects: two geometry experts and one non-expert. Their eye movements and verbal protocols were recorded as they solved geometry problems posed with diagrams. Subjects used highly redundant eye-movement patterns with multiple rescans of the same geometrical elements. OGRE's model of visual memory provided a good fit for the distribution of times between rescans. The model was used to estimate the size of visual working memory used in geometry. The estimates varied as a function of both problems and subjects, with means and standard deviations for each subject being: 5.3±1.4, 4.0±0.9 and 4.7±1.6.
Chemisorption-induced Structural Changes and Transition from Chemisorption to Physisorption in Au6(CO)n− (n = 4−9)

The interactions of CO with gold clusters are essential to understanding the catalytic mechanisms of CO oxidation on supported gold nanoparticles. Here we report a photoelectron spectroscopy and theoretical study of CO adsorption on a well-defined Au6− cluster in Au6(CO)n− (n = 4−9). Previous studies have shown that the first three CO successively bind the three apex sites of the triangular Au6−. The current work reveals that the fourth CO induces a major structural change to create more apex sites to accommodate the additional CO. Definitive spectroscopic evidence is obtained for the chemisorption saturation at Au6(CO)6−, in which Au6 has rearranged to accommodate the six CO adsorbates. The photoelectron spectra of larger clusters from Au6(CO)7− to Au6(CO)9− are observed to be almost identical to that of Au6(CO)6−, suggesting that the additional CO units are simply physisorbed onto the Au6(CO)6− core. Quasirelativistic density functional calculations are performed on both Au6(CO)n and Au6(CO)n− (n = 4−6)...
Relationship between Game Playing and Personality

The relationship between personality variables and involvement in adventure games (such as Dungeons and Dragons) has been equivocal with both negative and positive correlates being reported. 75 college students were evaluated with the 16 PF. No differences were found between heavy and light involvement gamers; both groups' scores were similar to the 16 PF standardization population.
Spatial Integration, Adjustment, and Structural Transformation in Sub‐Saharan Africa: Some Linkage Pattern Changes in Ghana

In 1983, Ghana embarked on a program of structural adjustment under the auspices of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, to resuscitate the economy and to foster development. This paper utilizes the Lagos Plan of Action, a comprehensive, continent-wide effort and African-led policy strategy for the economic development of the African continent, to examine the contribution of adjustment to the development of an integrated economy in Ghana. Adjustment is examined as a form of structural transformation, as evidenced by the emergent intranational (intra- and inter-sectoral) and international linkages in the formal wood processing industry, a key sector with tremendous potential for such linkages. Intranationally, this study shows that, as in the pre-adjustment years, inter-sectoral linkages, although important, were not dynamic enough to play a significantly galvanizing role in the nation's economic development. However, intra-sectorally, a dramatic expansion in lumber exports led to an unprece...
On the relationship between the pressure and the projection function in the numerical computation of viscous incompressible flow

Abstract The relationship between the pressure p and the projection function φ employed in the numerical computation of viscous incompressible flow using the fractional-step method is discussed. To leading order, the difference p−φ is proportional to the divergence of the intermediate velocity, u ∗ , computed by integrating the equation of motion in the absence of the pressure gradient. Previous authors have shown that the intermediate rate of expansion, α ∗ ≡∇· u ∗ is supported by numerical boundary-layers of thickness δ≃(νΔt)1/2, where Δt is the time step and ν is the kinematic viscosity. We demonstrate that, in the absence of singularities due to discontinuous boundary velocity, the magnitude of α ∗ changes by an amount of order δ across the boundary layers and of higher order in the bulk of the flow, and argue that adding a computable correction to the projection function allows us to recover the pressure with temporal accuracy whose order matches that of the method used for carrying out the convection–diffusion step. When the boundary velocity is discontinuous, the normal derivative of the pressure exhibits strong singularities, and the computation of the pressure using finite-difference methods on non-staggered grids is notably sensitive to the numerical implementation. In contrast, in spite of the singular behavior of the intermediate rate of expansion, the solution of the Poisson equation for the projection function subject to the homogeneous Neumann boundary condition is less sensitive to the numerical method. Computing the projection function thus emerges as a preferred venue of approximating the pressure on non-staggered grids even under demanding conditions.
Entrainment pattern between sympathetic and phrenic nerve activities in the Sprague-Dawley rat: hypoxia-evoked sympathetic activity during expiration

Sympathetic and respiratory motor activities are entrained centrally. We hypothesize that this coupling may partially underlie changes in sympathetic activity evoked by hypoxia due to activity-depe...
Comparative Effects of Fibrinogen Degradation Fragments D and E on Coagulation

Summary The mechanism of anticoagulant action of the fibrinogen degradation products (fragments D and E) has been investigated using purified products in selected esterolytic, proteolytic and coagulation systems. Their modes of action were distinctly different. Fragment D acted primarily by inhibiting fibrin monomer polymerization, while fragment E did not significantly alter this process. The latter product appeared to be a competitive inhibitor of the clotting action of thrombin on fibrinogen. Its comparative effect in thrombin proteolytic and esterolytic systems indicated that fragment E did not irreversibly inactivate the enzyme centre of thrombin. Rather, it appeared to block a thrombin binding site essential for proper alignment with the fibrinogen substrate. This competitive inhibition suggests that fragment E may derive from and share physical structures with the thrombin-susceptible, N-terminal portion of the fibrinogen molecule.
Implementation of data types by algebraic methods

Dans cet article, on prend une approche quelque peu differente des programmes et du concept de base de l'implantation, accentuant une construction explicite de la cartographie. De plus, on elabore le concept d'implementation pour des algebres arbitraires A et B, independantes de leurs preservations soit par des axiomes abstraits d'equations soit par des programmes concrets dans quelque langage actuel tel le ADA par exemple
Cotton Dust Characterization: A Comparison of Sonically Separated Fine Dust (<20 μm) with Respirable (Vertical Elutriator) Dusts

Based on comparison of properties of the inorganic composition of various cotton dusts, this paper demonstrates that cotton dusts <20 μm in diameter separated from card room condenser trash material are very similar chemically to dusts collected in that same environment by a vertical elutriator cotton dust sampler. A method to estimate the fraction of cotton dust from sources such as cotton leaf and bract, humidifier water solids, soils, and background ambient air is given. Data from dusts obtained from the North Carolina State model card room and dusts reported in the literature are compared. In a study of 24 bales of cotton processed in the Model Card Room, approximately 26% of the elutriator dust was from humidifier water solids, less than 15% from ambient air and soils, and the remainder mostly from cotton bract and leaf.
On the isolation of neat allylic fluorides

Abstract Neat cinnamyl fluoride, geranyl fluoride, 5-carbomethoxy-3-fluorocyclohexene and parent 3-fluorocyclohexene undergo spontaneous decomposition on contact with borosilicate glass or catalytic quantities of moderately strong acids that consists in polycondensation with elimination of HF initiated by electrophilic abstraction of F − . Acid sensitivity of these allylic fluorides correlates with stability of respective allylic cations, exceeds that of parent benzyl fluoride, yet can be mitigated by the use of Teflon and PFA containers that permit their isolation and handling in the neat state.
Metallurgical factors affecting fracture toughness of aluminum alloys

Crack extension in commercial aluminum alloys proceeds by the “ductile” or fibrous mode. The process involves the large, ~1 μm to ~10μm, Fe-, Si-, and Cu-bearing inclusions which break easily, and the growth of voids at the cracked particles. The linking-up of the voids is accomplished by the rupture of the intervening ligaments, and this is affected by the fine, ~0.01μm precipitate particles that strengthen the matrix. The ~0.1μm Cr-, Mn-, and Zr-rich intermediate particles are more resistant to cracking and may enter the process in the linking-up stage. The fracture toughness of aluminum alloys therefore depends on a) the extent of the heavily strained region ahead of the crack tip, which is a function of the yield strength arad modulus, b) the size of the ligaments which is related tof c, the volume fraction of cracked particles, and c) the work of rupturing the ligaments. An approximate analysis predicts KIc varies asf c-1/6, and this is in agreement with measurements on alloys with comparable yield strength levels. Studies in which the aging conditions are altered for the samef cshow that the toughness decreases with increasing yield strength level. This degradation in toughness is related to the localization of plastic deformation. The tendency for localization is illustrated with the help of “plane strain” tension and bend specimens whose behavior is related to the toughness. Measurements of the strain distribution on the microscale show that slip is relatively uniformly distributed in a 7000-type alloy with low inclusion and particle content when the material is in the as-quenched and overaged conditions. In contrast the distribution is highly nonuniform in the peak aged condition where slip is concentrated in widely spaced superbands involving coarse slip bands with large offsets that crack prematurely. The connection between the tendency for slip localization and the fine precipitate particles which strengthen the matrix remains to be established. In overaged alloys grain boundary ruptures occur within the superbands. The amount of intergranular failure increases with grain size and is accompanied by a loss of fracture toughness.
Myometrial maxi-K channel β1 subunit modulation during pregnancy and after 17β-estradiol stimulation

Myometrial maxi-K channels are modulated by β subunits. We aimed to determine whether β subunits are modulated to affect uterine excitability during gestation. RNase protection analyses revealed that mouse β1 subunit transcripts are regulated during gestation with peak expression at day 14 of pregnancy. Immunohistochemical analysis indicates an increase of this subunit during gestation. Upregulation of the β1 transcript occurs with 4-day exposure to 17β-estradiol but not progesterone, and acute estradiol exposure has no effect on β1 transcript expression. These findings verify that β1 subunit transcript is regulated in mouse myometrium during gestation and estrogens may contribute to this increase.
Effect of disperse dye structure on dye sorption onto PLA fiber

Abstract The effect of the structure of various disperse dyes on their percentage sorption onto polylactide (PLA) is explained using molecular modeling. The interaction energies between the dyes and PLA have been calculated, and a linear equation has been developed to predict the percentage sorption on PLA based on the dye–PLA interaction energy. The predicted percentage sorption for a dye is shown to agree with its experimentally obtained percentage sorption on commercial PLA fabric and on PLA fiber extruded in our laboratory. Within the dyes, the functional groups that form the strongest interactions with PLA are N(C2H4OCOCH3)2, (CO)2NC3H6OCH3, SO2NHC6H5, NO2, CN(NH)C6H4, and CH(CO)2C6H4, and the groups that form the weakest interactions with PLA are Br and Cl.
Residual stresses generated during joining of dissimilar alumina–zirconia composites by plastic deformation and its implications on mechanical properties

Abstract Ceramic bars of zirconia toughened–alumina composites were fabricated by pressureless sintering in air at 1450 °C for 4 h. Composite samples were fabricated with two different compositions: zirconia with 60 vol.% alumina (ZT60A) and zirconia with 40 vol.% alumina (ZT40A). Average four-point-bend strengths for the ZT40A and ZT60A were 480 ± 45 MPa and 410 ± 120 MPa, respectively. Three-layered sandwich structures were fabricated by joining two bars of sintered ZT60A with a sintered ZT40A bar. High-temperature plastic joining was accomplished at 1350 °C at a strain rate of 5 × 10−6 s−1 and a compressive stress ranging from 30–40 MPa. Bend tests conducted on the layered structure exhibited average strengths of 707 ± 81 MPa. Strength enhancements for the multilayered structure were higher than those predicted by stress analysis. Stress enhancements were compared with the residual stresses measured in the layered sample using X-ray micro-diffraction at the Advance Photon Source (APS). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was also conducted to identify the location of failure causing flaws.
Stock Market Overreactions to Bad News in Good Times: A Rational Expectations Equilibrium Model

This article presents a dynamic, rational expectations equilibrium model of asset prices where the drift of fundamentals (dividends) shifts between two unobservable states at random times. I show that in equilibrium, investors’ willingness to hedge against changes in their own “uncertainty” on the true state makes stock prices overreact to bad news in good times and underreact to good news in bad times. I then show that this model is better able than conventional models with no regime shifts to explain features of stock returns, including volatility clustering, “leverage effects,” excess volatility, and time-varying expected returns.
Armed Conflict, International Linkages, and Women's Parliamentary Representation in Developing Nations

Politics is arguably the arena in which gender inequality remains most pronounced. Yet in recent decades, women in some countries and regions of the world have made significant gains in legislative presence at the national level. But for women living outside of the industrialized West, we know little about the processes that facilitate their entry into politics. Through separate analyses of 36 high-income, 86 middle-income, and 63 low-income countries, I demonstrate that past models of women's political representation fail to explain variation across low-income samples. Using multiple methods, I also explore two sets of factors that may be more salient predictors of women's parliamentary representation in low-income nations: civil war and international linkages. Although historically women have been unable to consolidate gains made during wartime into post-conflict political representation, I find that certain types of civil conflict during the 1980s and 1990s positively affect women's representation in low-income nations. Longer, larger-scale wars that contest the political system or serve to alter the composition of the government have the best prospects for creating opportunities for women to gain parliamentary seats. Brief case studies of women, war, and social change in Rwanda, Mozambique, Uganda, and Tajikistan suggest that structural and cultural mechanisms may work in conjunction with political openings to produce post-conflict gains in women's political presence. Both women's lack of political representation and the tragic effects of civil war remain enduring challenges faced by the developing world, but at the intersection of these two problems, there is hope for women seeking political access.
The Text in the Jew

The Jew in the Text: Modernity and the Construction of Identity edited by Linda Nochlin and Tamar Garb, London: Thames and Hudson, 1995, 288 pp, 72 b. & w. illus., £18.95
Monte Carlo modeling of spatial coherence: free-space diffraction

We present a Monte Carlo method for propagating partially coherent fields through complex deterministic optical systems. A Gaussian copula is used to synthesize a random source with an arbitrary spatial coherence function. Physical optics and Monte Carlo predictions of the first- and second-order statistics of the field are shown for coherent and partially coherent sources for free-space propagation, imaging using a binary Fresnel zone plate, and propagation through a limiting aperture. Excellent agreement between the physical optics and Monte Carlo predictions is demonstrated in all cases. Convergence criteria are presented for judging the quality of the Monte Carlo predictions.
Pediatric temporal bone fractures in a rural population.

Abstract Objective To examine pediatric temporal bone fractures in a rural population. Study design and setting A retrospective chart review of pediatric temporal bone fractures between January 1, 1996, and December 31, 2000, at a rural academic medical center. Results A total of 108 patients were identified. Common etiologies include falls, bicycle-related injuries, and motor vehicle accidents. Animal-related injuries were identified primarily in patients under 5. Facial nerve injuries were noted in 7%, hearing loss in 16%, additional skull base fractures in 65%, and intracranial injuries in 75%. Conclusions Temporal bone fracture etiology in the rural pediatric population is associated with age. Young children may suffer fractures secondary to animal-related accidents. Patterns of injury differ little between rural and urban settings. Significance Animal-related accidents may be a significant cause of temporal bone trauma in rural young children. Our data remain unique in that we report additional skull base fractures as well as intracranial injuries in this population.
Role of nerve growth factor in suramin neurotoxicity studied in vitro

We determined whether suramin neurotoxicity can be prevented by nerve growth factor (NGF) and if this interaction occurs at the level of the NGF receptor. Neurite outgrowth from rat dorsal root ganglia in vitro was measured serially in the presence of suramin (100-600 μM) alone or with β-NGF (50-1,000 ng/ml). Competitive NGF receptor-binding studies were done with 125 I-labeled NGF in the presence or absence of suramin. Neurite growth was inhibited in a dose-dependent manner, but at usual neurotoxic levels this inhibition could be overcome completely by increasing the concentration of NGF. Receptor-binding assays showed similar dose-dependent inhibition of 125 I-labeled NGF binding
Refeeding after acute food restriction: Differential reduction in preference for ethanol and ethanol-paired flavors in selectively bred rats

Rats' voluntary ethanol intake varies with dispositional factors and energy status. The joint influences of these were of interest here. We previously reported that rats selectively bred for high voluntary saccharin intake (HiS) consume more ethanol and express more robust conditioning of preference for flavors paired with voluntarily consumed ethanol than do low-saccharin consuming counterparts (LoS). Three new experiments examined the effect of refeeding after an episode of food restriction on ethanol intake and on preference for ethanol-paired flavors in HiS and LoS rats. A 48-h episode of food restriction with wheel running reduced intake of and preference for 4% ethanol (Exp. 1a) and preference for an ethanol-paired flavor (Exp. 1b) during refeeding. Food restriction alone was sufficient to reduce the flavor preference (Exp. 2). Adding fat to the refeeding diet or extending the food restriction period exacerbated the effect (Exp. 3), yielding a frank aversion to ethanol-paired flavors in LoS rats. These studies indicate that rebound from negative energy balance shifts responses to ethanol-associated cues from preference toward aversion. Analyses of bodyweight changes and caloric intake during refeeding support this conclusion and further suggest that lower metabolic efficiency may be a marker for enhanced preference mutability.
Low-Temperature Si (111) Homoepitaxy and Doping Mediated by a Monolayer of Pb

The codeposition of Pb during Si (111) molecular beam homoepitaxy leads to high-quality crystalline films at temperatures for which films deposited on bare Si (111) are amorphous. Like other growth mediating elements— commonly called surfactants— Pb segregates to the film surface. Ion channeling and transmission electron microscopy reveal nearly defect-free epitaxy for a Pb coverage of one monolayer and temperatures as low as 310 °C. We have deposited films up to 1000 A in thickness with no indication that this is an upper limit for high-quality epitaxy. However, a decrease in the Pb coverage during growth by only one tenth of a monolayer leads to highly defective films at these temperatures. The codeposition of both As and Pb results in a striking enhancement of the film quality as well. In this case, while the Pb again segregates to the film surface, the As is incorporated into the film with no apparent segregation. Lead-mediated Si epitaxy on As-terminated Si (111) produces high-quality films in which the As remains buried at the substrate-film interface. These results show Pb-mediated Si (111) homoepitaxy to be a promising strategy for the synthesis of layered structures having abrupt nanoscale dopant profiles
The Homeodomain Resource: a comprehensive collection of sequence, structure, interaction, genomic and functional information on the homeodomain protein family

The Homeodomain Resource is a curated collection of sequence, structure, interaction, genomic and functional information on the homeodomain family. The current version builds upon previous versions by the addition of new, complete sets of homeodomain sequences from fully sequenced genomes, the expansion of existing curated homeodomain information and the improvement of data accessibility through better search tools and more complete data integration. This release contains 1534 full-length homeodomain-containing sequences, 93 experimentally derived homeodomain structures, 101 homeodomain protein–protein interactions, 107 homeodomain DNA-binding sites and 206 homeodomain proteins implicated in human genetic disorders. Database URL: The Homeodomain Resource is freely available and can be accessed at http://research.nhgri.nih.gov/homeodomain/
A plasmodium protein kinase that is developmentally regulated, stimulated by spermine, and inhibited by quercetin

Plasmodium berghei-infected murine red cells possess protein kinase activity that is associated with the isolated parasites. Schizonts contain significantly higher levels of this protein kinase than the more immature forms, suggesting a relationship between this enzyme activity and parasite development. Partially purified protein kinase has a Km for ATP of approximately 30 microMs, whereas the Km for GTP is approximately 300 microMs and the substrate preference is phosvitin greater than casein much greater than histone greater than protamine. The Mg2+ optimum is 10-20 mM, and the protein kinase activity is stimulated by the polyamines spermine and spermidine. The flavone, quercetin, inhibits the protein kinase activity in a competitive manner with respect to ATP (Ki approximately 3 microMs), and P chabaudi also has a very similarly regulated protein kinase. Protein kinases from both species are very similar to the type I casein kinase.
Does Histology Predict Survival of Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients Treated with Platin-Based Chemotherapy? An Analysis of the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Study E1594

Abstract Introduction We conducted this analysis to determine whether survival of advanced NSCLC patients treated with platin-based chemotherapy doublets involving paclitaxel, docetaxel or gemcitabine was dependent on histological subtypes and treatment regimen. Methods We retrospectively analyzed data from E1594, a front-line phase III study in which advanced NSCLC patients were randomized to receive one of four regimens: cisplatin-paclitaxel, cisplatin-gemcitabine, cisplatin-docetaxel, and carboplatin-paclitaxel. Patients were classified into four histology groups: squamous cell (SCC), adeno- (AC), large cell (LCC) and others including not otherwise specified (O/NOS) carcinoma. Logrank test was performed to compare overall survival (OS) and progression free survival (PFS) distributions according to histology as well as treatment. Results Of 1139 patients including 716 men and 423 women, AC was the most common subtype (56.8%), followed by SCC (19.7%), O/NOS (17.0%) and LCC (6.5%). Men were more likely to have SCC and women were more likely to have AC ( p =0.002). Among the four histology groups, there was no imbalance in regard to race, performance status, weight loss, brain metastasis or treatment. In each histology group, we found no significant difference in OS and PFS between the four chemotherapy regimens. Conversely, in each treatment arm, the survival outcome was similar between the four histology subtypes. Conclusions Our analysis suggests that histology does not predict survival benefit in advanced NSCLC patients treated with first-line platin-based doublets involving paclitaxel, docetaxel or gemcitabine.
Sleep Medicine Training Across the Spectrum

There is now a new pathway and examination for sleep medicine, sponsored by the American Board of Internal Medicine, and a number of accredited sleep medicine fellowship programs through the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. This review takes an historical approach to discuss the process of education for sleep physiology and disorders not only in the postgraduate period but also at all levels of instruction. In reality, there is a continuum of knowledge that needs to be reinforced up and down the educational system, of which Sleep Medicine subspecialty training is just one part. Although progress has been made at all educational levels up to this point, the future of training and education will depend on a sustained effort at several levels from undergraduate to postgraduate continuing medical education and will be facilitated by professional societies and other specialties who will collectively promote the value of and outcomes for clinical sleep medicine.
Prospective upper gastrointestinal series in the evaluation of burned children

Summary Prospective evaluation of burned patients using upper gastrointestinal series to detect possible ulcers was carried out. Two hundred fourteen studies were performed in 152 patients. Ulcers in the stomach or duodenum were demonstrated unequivocally in 3.4 per cent of patients, while suspected ulcers were present in an additional eight cases, giving a combined incidence of 7.4 per cent. Most of these patients were asymptomatic. Superior mesenteric artery syndrome in some degree was revealed in twelve patients, or 5.9 per cent of all cases. A significant number of burned patients therefore had radiographically detectable disease, and the awareness of this aided in clinical management. There were no complications as a result of performing the studies.
Two-dimensional Green's function for a wedge with impedance faces

The solution for the two-dimensional (2-D) Green's function for a wedge with impedance faces is presented. The important feature of this Green's function is that there are no restrictions on the locations for the source and observation points-they can be anywhere. Its development proceeds along two separate lines: one for when the source or observation point is far from the wedge vertex and another one for when it is close. Much of the effort that has been expended in these formulations has been in obtaining forms for the Green's function which are efficient to evaluate numerically. This involved deforming the various contours of integration so that they are rapidly convergent and separating the contributions from the numerous singularities that occur in the integrands and evaluating them in closed form. The formulations that are employed here allow for the individual field components such as the diffracted, geometrical optics, and surface wave components to be identified and studied individually so that a physical understanding for the various scattering mechanisms for the impedance wedge can be appreciated.
First Use of NTD Germanium‐Based Microcalorimeters For High‐Resolution, Broadband X‐Ray Microanalysis

Broadband, high-resolution x-ray spectra from samples excited by the electron beam of a scanning electron microscope were obtained with an NTD germanium-based microcalorimeter. An energy resolution of 8 eV was used to resolve completely the silicon Kα from the tungsten Mα x-rays. This performance will make it possible to analyze efficiently the composition of thin films and surface contaminants by using low electron excitation energies.
A robust sequential detection algorithm for cardiac arrhythmia classification

We describe a modified sequential probability ratio test (SPRT) for the discrimination of ventricular fibrillation (VF) from ventricular tachycardia (VT) in measured surface electrocardiograms. The algorithm uses a novel regularity measure dubbed blanking variability (BV) applied to threshold crossings from the measured ECG. Blanking variability corresponds to the normalized rate of change of cardiac rate as the blanking interval is varied. The algorithm has been trained and tested using separate subsets drawn from the MIT-BIH malignant arrhythmia database. BV values are modeled using a truncated Gaussian distribution, and parameter values are derived by averaging over the training component of the database. In testing, the algorithm achieved an overall classification accuracy of 95%.
Extremal sections of complex lp-balls, 0 < p 2

We study the extremal volume of central hyperplane sections of com- plex n-dimensional lp-balls with 0 < p 2: We show that the minimum corresponds to hyperplanes orthogonal to vectors = ( 1 ;:::; n )2 C n withj 1 j = ::: =j n j, and the maximum corresponds to hyperplanes orthogonal to vectors with only one non-zero coordinate.
Deposition of Magnetoelectric Ferrite Thin Films Using Multiple Targets Technique

The magnetoelectric (ME) effect has been detected in cobalt-doped M-type hexaferrite bulk. We have demonstrated that the hexaferrite films of the M-type exhibiting the ME effect can be deposited from single targets as well as multiple targets as in the alternating target laser ablation deposition technique. The corresponding ME coupling is sufficiently high at room temperature to allow for potential device applications $\alpha =5.2\times 10^{-9}$ m/s. The saturation magnetization value ( $4\pi M_{s})$ of the film was measured to be 2000 G, consistent with a vibrating sample magnetometer and the ferromagnetic resonance measurement.
High photoresponse in hybrid graphene-carbon nanotube infrared detectors.

Efficient exciton dissociation is crucial to obtaining high photonic response in photodetectors. This work explores implementation of a novel exciton dissociation mechanism through heterojunctions self-assembled at the graphene/MWCNT (multiwall carbon nanotube) interfaces in graphene/MWCNT nanohybrids. Significantly enhanced near-infrared photoresponsivity by nearly an order of magnitude has been achieved on the graphene/MWCNT nanohybrids as compared to the best achieved so far on carbon nanotube (CNT) only infrared (IR) detectors. This leads to a high detectivity up to 1.5 × 107 cm·Hz1/2·W–1 in the graphene/MWCNT nanohybrid, which represents a 500% improvement over the best D* achieved on MWCNT film IR detectors and may be further improved with optimization on the interfacial heterojunctions. This approach of the self-assembly of graphene/CNT nanohybrids provides a pathway toward high-performance and low-cost carbon nanostructure IR detectors.
Using patterns of firing neurons in spiking neural networks for learning and early recognition of spatio-temporal patterns

In this paper, we propose a novel unsupervised learning approach for spatio-temporal pattern classification. We use a spike timing neural network with axonal conductance delays to learn the structure of spatio-temporal patterns from a small set of training samples and then use this network for classifying unseen patterns. The method also enables early classification of patterns, before they are completely observed. To transform a spatio-temporal pattern into a suitable form for the spiking network, we create a mapping process that transforms it into a spike train that can be used to train the network through spike-timing-dependent plasticity. Based on the trained network, we build models of the training samples as strings of characters in which each character represents a set of neurons that fire at a particular time step, in response to the pattern. For classification, we compute the longest common subsequence between the model strings corresponding to the input and training samples and choose the class of the training sample with highest similarity. This method is evaluated on a handwritten digits dataset with spatio-temporal information. We show that this method is robustly detecting the correct class early on. Comparison with one unsupervised and eight other supervised approaches shows that our proposed approach could compete or has better performance rather than all of them. Further analysis show that even for misclassified samples, our system can detect the correct class among the top three class labels.