cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Steroid aromatization by a small particle fraction from porcine ovaries

Testosterone, 4-androstene-3,17-dione, 19-hydroxy-4-androstene-3,17-dione, 4alpha-5-oxido-5alpha-androstane-3,17-dione and 4beta-5-oxido-5beta-androstane-3,17-dione were compared as substrates for aromatization by the small particle fraction from sow ovaries. Relative conversion rates were: 19-hydroxy-4-androstene-3,17-dione:4-androstene-3,17-dione: testosterone: 4alpha-5-oxido-5alpha- and 4beta-5-oxido-5beta-androstane-3,17-dione; 100:32:20:congruent to O. Apparent Michaelis constants were 4.4 muM for 4-androstene-3,17-dione and 12 muM for testosterone. Maximum velocities were 0.20 pmoles/mg protein per min for androstenedione [1] and 0.16 for testosterone. The substrate preferences of the aromatizing system found in ovary are similar to those of the enzyme found in placenta.
Formation Of RecA Filament During The Mechanical Unzipping Of dsDNA To ssDNA: Competition With SSB Differentially Controls RecA Mediated SOS Response And Replication Repair

RecA and its eukaryotic homologs Rad51 and Dmc1 carry out many DNA transactions: recombinational DNA damage repair, genome integration of incoming DNA, programmed recombination during meiosis, and stalled DNA replication forks processing, all reactions initiated forming a RecA ssDNA nucleoprotein filament. ssDNA/RecA interactions activate the “SOS” response through RecA co-protease activation, raising RecA concentration. RecA/ssDNA binding must be regulated such that it only occurs in specific situations: a feature involved in modulating specificity is competitive binding of SSB and RecA to ssDNA. We studied this competition using a magnetic tweezers assay system in which we follow the formation of RecA filaments, in the presence and absence of SSB, on a single ssDNA molecule obtained by mechanical unzipping of dsDNA. We examined various buffer conditions and the effects of several relevant nucleotides. When RecA and SSB tetramer are equimolar, SSB wins the competition and no stable RecA filament is observed; when RecA is in a 20-fold molar excess, stable RecA filament forms. At intermediate molar ratios mixed situations are observed. These results provide information on the competition dynamics between RecA and SSB at the single DNA molecule level. Our results confirm previous ensemble studies: RecA and SSB affinities for ssDNA provide an intrinsic differential control for RecA mediated DNA repair and recombination functions, independently by a RecA loading machinery. SOS response increases RecA concentration giving a molar ratio of RecA:SSB of ∼30:1 outcompeting SSB without need for loading factors. These studies show that a ssDNA/RecA filament is stable for much longer than any ssDNA/SSB complex examined. This could imply that the free energy for bound RecA is much lower than that for SSB.
Diastolic Rumbles in Normally Functioning Porcine Mitral Valves

Fourteen of 22 patients (64 percent) with normally functioning porcine prosthetic valves in the mitral position had apical diastolic rumbles on phonocardiogram and by auscultation. Six (27 percent) had opening snaps. Factors necessary for the production of a diastolic rumble appear to Include central flow, a flexible stent, and the presence of biologic material. Clinicians should be aware that diastolic murmurs and snaps occur in the normally functioning porcine valve.
Enhanced Model-Based Clustering, Density Estimation,and Discriminant Analysis Software: MCLUST

MCLUST is a software package for model-based clustering, density estimation and discriminant analysis interfaced to the S-PLUS commercial software and the R language. It implements parameterized Gaussian hierarchical clustering algorithms and the EM algorithm for parameterized Gaussian mixture models with the possible addition of a Poisson noise term. Also included are functions that combine hierarchical clustering, EM and the Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC) in comprehensive strategies for clustering, density estimation, and discriminant analysis. MCLUST provides functionality for displaying and visualizing clustering and classification results. A web page with related links can be found at http://www.stat.washington.edu/mclust.
R L Gregory and Others: The Wrong Picture of the Picture Theory of Perception:

It is the position of R L Gregory and other cognitive theorists that perceptual knowledge conceived as an inner picture leads to an infinite regress, but that perceptual knowledge conceived as an abstract or coded representation does not. It is argued here that this view is mistaken.All inner representations, whether pictorial or abstract, lead to the regress because all representations, inner or outer, require interpretation, and hence an interpreter. The problem will not disappear, furthermore, by formalizing the representation because rule-following is not equivalent to interpretation. The regress can only be avoided if the whole organism is made the interpreter, and representations are given their appropriate place: in the external world, not inside heads.
Linguistic approach to the multi-criteria ranking problem

The problem of employing linguistic variables to rank alternatives across a set of criteria is investigated, with emphasis placed on modelling the decision-maker's reasoning process. Given a set of alternatives, decision-makers often do not make conclusions immediately, instead evaluating them in the light of a given set of criteria and then synthesizing the knowledge obtained from the evaluation. Both evaluation and synthesis are usually expressed linguistically rather than numerically. A fuzzy mathematical model is employed to represent this sort of linguistic evaluation and synthesis. An example is presented to illustrate the basic idea and technique. This example is also used to compare the proposed technique with another existing technique. The model can be employed in expert systems for making inferences on multi-criteria problems.
The effects of temperature changes on the swelling of AISI 316

Abstract Swelling data on 20% cold worked 316 during a temperature change indicate an effect of both increasing and decreasing irradiation temperatures on the swelling-fluence relationship. Specimens were found to follow the swelling behavior of the final irradiation temperature after both temperature increases and decreases. Swelling rates were equal for all specimens which were irradiated at a final temperature of 625°C, in the linear swelling regime. This constancy of behavior supports the hypothesis that swelling in these specimens may be explained on the basis of changes in vacancy diffusivity and concentration with temperature. Those heats of material which show relatively low swelling resistance also show a more pronounced response to temperature change than relatively low-swelling heats.
Factors Associated with Consumer Preferences for Convenience Meat

Abstract An ordered-probit model was used to examine the preferences of Louisiana and southeast Texas residents for convenience meat. The results suggested that male, younger or unmarried respondents, and Catholics had higher probabilities of agreeing that they preferred convenience meat than their corresponding counterparts. However, unmarried male Caucasians had the highest probability of strongly agreeing or somewhat agreeing that they preferred to buy convenience meat. The results also suggested that price was an important determinant in shaping these preferences.
Magnetic states in selectively doped quantum well heterostructures

Abstract Exchange interactions between electrons localized in selectively doped, electrically neutral, planar quantum well heterostructures are shown to lead to a characteristic sheet density below which the conventional picture of a paramagnetic two-dimensional electron gas ground state may be inapplicable, especially at low temperatures. First order Hartree-Fock approximation estimates indicate that critical sheet densities for a possible magnetic transition may lie in a readily achievable experimental range of order 6 × 1010 cm−2 for 40 A AlGaAs GaAs quantum wells. Relevant experiments are suggested.
Cover Picture: Progress in Supramolecular Chemistry of Gases (Eur. J. Org. Chem. 20/2007)

The cover picture shows a star field filled with molecules of environmentally important gases. Gases are very interesting for molecular recognition. Supramolecular complexes with gases have been obtained by utilizing dynamic, reversible forces. On this basis, supramolecular, optical sensors for the detection of gases have been introduced. Studies on molecules and molecular materials for gas entrapment, separation, storage and release that involve synthetic containers, self-assembling capsules and even nanotubes and fullerenes have been well in progress. Moreover, supramolecular fixation of gases has yielded stable and selective chemical reagents for preparative organic chemistry. Gases have also been used as building blocks for supramolecular nanostructures. Dynamic, switchable polymers that can be used as storing and separating materials have been constructed from gases. The current progress in supramolecular chemistry and molecular recognition of gases is presented in the Microreview by D. M. Rudkevich on p. 3255 ff. The star field picture is a courtesy of Joe Eakin, Director, The Planetarium at The University of Texas at Arlington.
Jobs of the Future and the Education They Will Require: Evidence From Occupational Forecasts:

Analyses of occupational forecasts have played a prominent role in this debate about the skill and educational implications of changes in technology and other developments in the economy. Unfortunately, some analysts and commentators have used the data to argue that skill and educational demands are rising while others rely on occupational data to support the argument that skills are unchanged or falling. Although the latest occupational data suggest that a dramatic educational upgrading of the occupational structure is not taking place, they do indicate that at the very least there is a steady increase in those occupations that currently employ more highly educated workers. Moreover, there is a case to be made that the projections underestimate the extent of upgrading. In the end, there are severe limitations to the usefulness of occupational forecasting for guiding educational reform. Many of the most significant changes may be taking place within occupational categories, yet occupational forecasts can ...
Population dynamics of Bythotrephes cederstroemii in south‐east Lake Michigan 1995–1998

SUMMARY 1. Population characteristics (density, size, reproductive patterns) of the predatory cladoceran Bythotrephes cederstroemii in south-east Lake Michigan were monitored at an offshore station (110m) in 1995-98 and at a nearshore station (45 m) in 1997-98. 2. The mean density of B. cederstroemii at the offshore station was generally highest in July-September (145-914 m- 2 ) and at the nearshore station in October-November (168-1625 m- 2 ). In 1995 and 1998, density was also high at the offshore station in November (211-284 m- 2 ). Fish predation may limit B. cederstroemii in nearshore regions in the summer. The maximum annual densities of B. cederstroemii for 1995-98 were generally similar to those reported from the late 1980s, when the species arrived in Lake Michigan. 3. Body size increased rapidly each year to a maximum in August. Thereafter, body size declined and converged for stage-2 and 3 individuals, suggesting food scarcity or size-selective fish predation was affecting large individuals. 4. Most reproduction occurred asexually (90%), and by stage 2 or 3 females (99%). Asexual brood size was highest when B. cederstroemii first appeared each year, and decreased in August, when larger neonates were produced. There appeared to be differences in reproductive mode for stage 2 and 3 females, with a higher percentage of stage 2 females reproducing sexually.
The Changing Relationship Between Unemployment and Suicide

The relationship between unemployment and suicide has changed over time and in particular during the Great Recession. Using state-level panel data covering the years 1979-2010, the study indicates that unemployment's impact was insignificant during the first half of the sample period, but was highly significant during the second half. In addition, while the impact has generally become stronger over recent decades, it fell during the Great Recession although remained significant. Evidence suggesting that increased economic insecurity helps explain the growing sensitivity over time is offered. The models fit the data well, explaining up to 90% of the variation in state suicide rates.
Atrial arrhythmias after lung transplantation: epidemiology, mechanisms at electrophysiology study, and outcomes.

Background— Atrial arrhythmias (AAs) including atrial fibrillation (AF) and atrial tachycardia (AT) are often observed after cardiothoracic surgery. Our aim was to evaluate the prevalence and mechanism of AAs after lung transplantation. Methods and Results— All patients (n=127) after bilateral sequential lung transplantation followed at our institution over 20 years were included. All patients received postoperative rhythm monitoring and clinic visits with ECG at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months, or as needed. AAs occurred in 40 of 127 (31.5%) patients over 4.2±4.1 years. AA prevalence at postoperation and 1, 3, 6, 12, and >12 months was 24%, 11%, 3%, 2%, 4%, and 11%, respectively. Early AAs were predominantly AF, whereas all AAs >12 months were AT. Time to first AF versus AT was 11±9 versus 1485±2462 days ( P =0.09). Male sex, age, and preoperative AA predicted any early (<3 months) AA but did not predict late AA. Early AA did not predict late AT. In 4 patients with drug-resistant AT, electrophysiology studies found AT involving the pulmonary vein/left atrium anastomoses in 3 patients, including donor-to-recipient conduction in 1, border zone macroreentry in 2, and cavotricuspid isthmus dependent flutter in 1; all patients were successfully treated with ablation. Conclusions— AAs after lung transplantation are common. Although AF is common early, AF is rare after healing of left atrial incisions, which probably result in surgical pulmonary vein isolation with rare exception. This raises the question of whether additional surgical or ablation lines at the time of lung transplantation would prevent late AA. Received March 24, 2009; accepted August 5, 2009. # CLINICAL PERSPECTIVE {#article-title-2}
Selection bias in case-control studies using relatives as the controls

Investigators have suggested using relatives of cases as the control group when studying complex diseases thought to have a major genetic component. However, there is a concern about possible bias and we developed a model to examine the possibility of bias in the selection of relatives as the control group. Assuming the exposure-specific risks of disease remain constant over time, the results indicate that even when there is a correlation in the exposure status among relatives, selection of controls from relatives of cases does not, of itself, introduce bias in the estimate of effect.
Hamiltonian Cycles in Triangular Grids.

We study the Hamiltonian Cycle problem in graphs induced by subsets of the vertices of the tiling of the plane with equilateral triangles. By analogy with grid graphs we call such graphs triangular grid graphs. Following the analogy, we define the class of solid triangular grid graphs. We prove that the Hamiltonian Cycle problem is NPcomplete for triangular grid graphs. We show that with the exception of the “Star of David”, a solid triangular grid graph without cut vertices is always Hamiltonian.
The application of an automated plant-wide control strategy for a continuous pharmaceutical pilot plant

Continuous manufacturing has the potential to provide substantial improvements to the manufacturing of pharmaceutical products compared to traditional batch-wise manufacturing. A key challenge is the development of effective control strategies for this new type of process. This contribution presents the experimental application of an automated plant-wide control strategy for a continuous pharmaceutical pilot plant that produces a pharmaceutical product from start to finish in a continuous fashion. The performance of the automated control loops demonstrate the maintenance of the critical material attributes close to their desired setpoints for a sustained period of operation.
Multi-level diffusion adaptive networks

We study the problem of distributed estimation, where a set of nodes are required to collectively estimate some parameter of interest from their measurements. Diffusion algorithms have been shown to achieve good performance, increased robustness and are amenable for real-time implementations. In this work we focus on multi-level diffusion algorithms, where a network running a diffusion algorithm is enhanced by adding special nodes that can perform different processing. These special nodes form a second network where a second diffusion algorithm is implemented. We illustrate the concept using diffusion LMS, provide performance analysis for multi-level collaboration and present simulation results showing improved performance over conventional diffusion.
Neurological Soft Signs in Individuals with Pathological Gambling

Increased neurological soft signs (NSSs) have been found in a number of neuropsychiatric syndromes, including chemical addiction. The present study examined NSSs related to perceptual-motor and visuospatial processing in a behavioral addiction viz., pathological gambling (PG). As compared to mentally healthy individuals, pathological gamblers displayed significantly poorer ability to copy two- and three-dimensional figures, to recognize objects against a background noise, and to orient in space on a road-map test. Results indicated that PG is associated with subtle cerebral cortical abnormalities. Further prospective clinical research is needed to address the NSSs' origin and chronology (e.g., predate or follow the development of PG) as well as their response to therapeutic interventions and/or their ability to predict such a response.
Vecteurs de médicaments innovants et « intelligents » : leurs applications pharmaceutiques

Resume Au cours des trente dernieres annees, notre laboratoire a developpe des systemes innovants a base de biomateriaux « intelligents » pour l′administration des medicaments. Ces systemes ont ete utilises pour la conception de nouvelles formes pharmaceutiques destinees a l’administration orale de l’insuline ou d’autres proteines a usage therapeutique ainsi que pour la detection de substances biologiques endogenes avec liberation de principes actifs appropries. Cet article decrit la preparation et les applications possibles de tels systemes d’administration.
Analysis of newly synthesized proteins during differentiation of cultured Douglas fir cotyledons.

Addition of plant growth regulators (5 nM NAA and 5μM BAP) to a defined basal medium stimulated adventitious bud formation of Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii [Mirb.] Franco) cotyledon explants in culture. Cytoplasmic soluble proteins synthesized during early stages of adventitious bud formation were analyzed by electrophoresis of 3H- and 14C-leucine labeled proteins on SDS polyacrylamide gels. Increased synthesis of low molecular weight proteins (16,000 to 20,000 daltons) was detected after 2 days in culture and reached a maximal level at day 4. When cotyledon explants cultured on bud medium for 2 days were transferred to callus medium (which suppressed adventitious bud formation), suppression of the synthesis of low molecular weight proteins was also observed, suggesting that these proteins may be associated with early stages of adventitious bud formation.
Downscaling of soil moisture fields using a modified fractal interpolation scheme

The scaling analysis of the soil moisture from the Southern Great Plains Hydrology experiment (SGP'97) showed that the scaling behavior of soil moisture fields violates the scale invariance at large-scale and this characteristic can be explained by field parameters related water holding capacity. Therefore, ancillary data were incorporated in to the fractal interpolation method as vertical scaling parameters to replicate the spatial characteristic of soil moisture from the existing characteristics of field parameters. Even though previous works related random fractal downscaling method can generate more deterministion output as the number of observations is increased, the output is a single realization of many. Therefore, they have limitation for practical application. A modified fractal interpolation method using a contraction mapping approach was used to construct unique fractal interpolated surfaces. We applied the modified fractal interpolation method for downscaling the retrieved soil moisture from the SGP'97 experiment. The results demonstrate that the downscaling model can capture all the basic statistics of soil moisture at higher-resolution as well the dual-scaling behavior for spatial scales above and below 10 km for a wide range of environmental conditions including very wet and dry soils.
An artificial-viscosity method for the lagrangian analysis of shocks in solids with strength on unstructured, arbitrary-order tetrahedral meshes

We present an artificial viscosity scheme tailored to finite-deformation Lagrangian calculations of shocks in materials with or without strength on unstructured tetrahedral meshes of arbitrary order. The artificial viscous stresses are deviatoric and satisfy material-frame indifference exactly. We have assessed the performance of the method on selected tests, including: a two-dimensional shock tube problem on an ideal gas; a two-dimensional piston problem on tantalum without strength; and a three-dimensional plate impact problem on tantalum with strength. In all cases, the artificial viscosity scheme returns stable and ostensibly oscillation-free solutions on meshes which greatly underresolve the actual shock thickness. The scheme typically spreads the shock over 4 to 6 elements and captures accurately the shock velocities and jump conditions.
Paired-associate transfer as a function of ability level in the A-B, C-A and the A-B, B-C paradigms.

Summary.-In 2 experiments, the A-B, B-C and the A-B, C-A paradigms were compared with the A-B, C-D control using 2 levels of ability. For each experiment a different although equivalent sample of 120 Armor enlisted personnel was used (6 groups of 20 each). Both lists of Exp. I and List I of Exp. I1 utilized a modificatiox of the anticipation procedure in which the stimuli were not pronounced. List 11 of Exp. I1 additionally used a multiple-choice procedure to equate response availability between groups. Original list learning unequivocally demonstrated the superiority of the high ability groups. List I1 comparisons showed clearly for the A-B, B-C paradigm that the high ability groups were faster but were somewhat equivocal for the A-B, C-A paradigm. The similar pattern of A-B, C-A transfer in both experimencs was interpreted as suggesting the possibility of a source of facilitation operating on the perceptual level in Exp. 11. A recent article (Schulman, 1967b) has raised the possibility that the magnitude or even the direcrion of transfer in the A-B, C-A paradigm may be dependenr upon the ability level of the subject population. The additional question of whether this also may be the case for the A-B, B-C paradigm is of interest here. It is not easy to reconcile these speculacions with the findings of Carroll and Burke (1965) that pai~ed-associate learning with CVC lists was not affected by apritude. That rheir results are what may be expected from past research can be seen from the literature review by Zeaman and House (1967). Of the 10 experiments which they summarized, only 3 indicated statisrical support for this effect. Each of these 3 involved the relatively great difference in abilicy level found between retardates and normals. The current study represenrs an attempt to clarify [he effect of ability level on these transfer paradigms using a normal population. Two experimencs are reported here in which the effecr of ability level on both original list learning and transfer to List I1 is evaluated. The second repeats the conditions of the first with the sole exception of using a multiplechoice procedure during List I1 acquisition. The rationale for this modificarion was based on evidence (Schulman, 1967a) that repetition of the List I stimulus as the List I1 response adds to the initial Lisr I1 response availability and thus facilitates List I1 learning. S~ibstituting multiple choice for recall should
Nonlinear digital PID controller for DC-DC converters

This paper introduces an approach for the design and implementation of a non-linear digital PID controller. The proposed PID controller includes nonlinear proportional, integral and differential gains that are selected based on the input error signal value to achieve significantly improved dynamic responses. This implementation uses an off-the-shelf digital PWM controller well suited for practical high-frequency SMPS applications. Simulation and experimental results are presented for a point-of-load 12 V-to-1 V, 40 A, 500 kHz dual phase synchronous buck converter to verify the improved dynamic performance of the non-linear digital controller.
Vibrational Stabilizability of Nonlinear Systems

Conditions of vibrational stabilizability for trivial solutions of nonlinear systems are derived. Several examples based on the classical equations of the theory of oscillations are given.
The Dynamics and Structure of Water at Interfaces

Neutron diffraction and inelastic scattering measurements from water in clay minerals, lamellar phases of fatty acid salts, fumed silica suspension and collagen are reviewed. The fluidity of the water as a function of layer thickness from a few angstroms (about one molecular layer) to several hundred angstroms is analysed to show how these systems exhibit a range of behaviour between freely exchanging and bound water on the neutron quasielastic scattering time scale 10−9 to 10−12 seconds.
Link-Length Minimization in Networks

Three general methods are described for attacking link-length minimization problems. All methods assume a system of fixed points that are to be interconnected by a network of links the sum of whose lengths is a minimum. In the mechanical and numeric-analytic methods, the interconnections are made through a specified number of junction points whose locations are to be determined although the connections thereto are specified initially. Constraints on the variable points and weighting of links are possible. In the soap-film method, network configurations are produced directly without assuming variable points or junctions.
The impact of countermeasure propagation on the prevalence of computer viruses

Countermeasures such as software patches or warnings can be effective in helping organizations avert virus infection problems. However, current strategies for disseminating such countermeasures have limited their effectiveness. We propose a new approach, called the countermeasure competing (CMC) strategy, and use computer simulation to formally compare its relative effectiveness with three antivirus strategies currently under consideration. CMC is based on the idea that computer viruses and countermeasures spread through two separate but interlinked complex networks - the virus-spreading network and the countermeasure-propagation network, in which a countermeasure acts as a competing species against the computer virus. Our results show that CMC is more effective than other strategies based on the empirical virus data. The proposed CMC reduces the size of virus infection significantly when the countermeasure-propagation network has properties that favor countermeasures over viruses, or when the countermeasure-propagation rate is higher than the virus-spreading rate. In addition, our work reveals that CMC can be flexibly adapted to different uncertainties in the real world, enabling it to be tuned to a greater variety of situations than other strategies.
Effects of stellate stimulation and hypoxia on haemodynamics and coronary circulation.

The effects of left stellate ganglion stimulation on haemodynamics and coronary blood flow were studied in dogs, and compared with hypoxia produced by arterial anoxia. Both left stellate stimulation and hypoxia resulted in an increase in coronary blood flow and myocardial oxygen consumption, but the increment in coronary blood flow was much more pronounced during hypoxia. Coronary resistance was significantly reduced during hypoxia but not altered during left stellate stimulation. This suggests an inadequate coronary vasodilator response during left stellate stimulation, probably secondary to a vasoconstrictor effect of the sympathetic nerves. This vasoconstrictor effect interferes with maximum vasodilatory response to hypoxia that is induced by sympathetic stimulation.
Silicon(lithiated)–sulfur full cells with porous silicon anode shielded by Nafion against polysulfides to achieve high capacity and energy density

Abstract Lithium-ion batteries have attracted great attention as one of the most versatile electrochemical energy storage devices. However, to meet the ever-growing energy needs for wide applications, further improvements on energy density of batteries are expected, which requires the development of innovative high-energy electrode materials. Silicon (Si) and sulfur (S) are two promising candidates and have been studied intensively as anode and cathode materials in lithium-ion batteries. Nevertheless, the excellent performance achieved with Li–Si and Li–S half cells usually does not easily translate to high-performance Si–S full cell. Here, we will discuss the challenges in the Si–S full cell integration, and a failure mechanism of Si–S full cell is proposed, which is due to the spontaneous reaction between Si (and lithiated Si) and polysulfides. On this basis, we report one prototype of Si-S full cells using lithiated Nafion-coated porous Si as anode and sulfur as cathode, and our study on the functionality of Nafion in shielding Si from reaction with polysulfides. With optimized mass ratio between sulfur and silicon, the full cell yields specific capacity of 330 mA h/g and energy density of 590 W h/kg after 100 cycles based on the total mass of sulfur and silicon. The achieved energy density is more than 2 times higher than commercially available lithium-ion batteries. The investigation of issues in Si–S full cell research and the proposed full cell prototype will shed light on the development of next-generation lithium-ion batteries.
Gene therapy in man and mice: adenosine deaminase deficiency, ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency, and Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Gene therapy is defined as the delivery and expression of a functional gene into somatic tissues of patients (or animals) endogenously deficient in this gene. Depending on the natural tissue pattern of expression and the sites most affected by disease processes, different anatomic sites may be the targets for gene transduction. To date, retrovirus-mediated gene transfer into hemopoietic stem cells is the most advanced of gene therapy systems and the most promising in terms of clinical applications in the near future. There are, however, additional efforts under way in our laboratory to develop efficient means of transducing genes into the liver, intestine, skeletal and cardiac muscles.
Virginia Orange: A Versatile, Red-Shifted Fluorescein Scaffold for Single- and Dual-Input Fluorogenic Probes.

Fluorogenic molecules are important tools for biological and biochemical research. The majority of fluorogenic compounds have a simple input–output relationship, where a single chemical input yields a fluorescent output. Development of new systems where multiple inputs converge to yield an optical signal could refine and extend fluorogenic compounds by allowing greater spatiotemporal control over the fluorescent signal. Here, we introduce a new red-shifted fluorescein derivative, Virginia Orange, as an exceptional scaffold for single- and dual-input fluorogenic molecules. Unlike fluorescein, installation of a single masking group on Virginia Orange is sufficient to fully suppress fluorescence, allowing preparation of fluorogenic enzyme substrates with rapid, single-hit kinetics. Virginia Orange can also be masked with two independent moieties; both of these masking groups must be removed to induce fluorescence. This allows facile construction of multi-input fluorogenic probes for sophisticated sensing reg...
Evolution of Structure and Function in the Carbonic Anhydrase Isozymes of Mammals

Comparative studies on the primary structures of the carbonic anhydrase isozymes, designated CA I and CA II, from a number of mammlian species have shown that nearly one half (46%) of the amino acid residues at homologous positions in these isozymes has remained invariant (cf. Tashian, 1977). Because of this high degree of sequence homology between the two carbonic anhydrase isozymes and the fact that the three-dimensional structures of human CA I and CA II are very similar (Kannan et al., 1975; Liljas et al., 1972; Notstrand et al., 1974), it is clear that the structural genes for these isozymes arose from the same ancestral gene. These isozymes are known to differ, sometimes markedly, in their stabilities to heat and denaturing reagents, specific activities, and inhibition by cyclic sulfonamides, halides, and anions (Cf. Lindskog et al., 1971; Maren, 1976; Tashian, 1977). Thus, some critical changes must have evolved in the structures (active site residues?) of these isozymes to account for the observed functional differences (Notstrand et al., 1974; Kannan et al., 1977). Recently, a third isozyme of carbonic anhydrase has been reported, which we have designated CA III, from mammalian skeletal muscle (Holmes, 1977; Koester et al., 1977; Tashian, 1977, 1978; Tashian et al., 1978) some of whose properties differ strikingly from those of CA I and II. For example, the CO2 hydratase and esterase activities and sulfonamide binding affinity of the CA III isozymes are much lower than those of the CA I and II isozymes, especially the esterase activity and sulfon­amide binding affinity (Holmes, 1977; Koester et al., 1977; Tashian et al., 1978; Carter et al., 1979). In addition, the conformational properties of CA III appear to be uniquely different from CA I and CA II (Koester and Noltmann, 1979).
Vitamin D autocrine system and prostate cancer prevention and treatment

Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes play crucial roles in vitamin D metabolism and actions, including hepatic vitamin D-25-hydroxylase and renal 25-hydroxyvitamin D-1α-hydroxylase (CYP27B1) for the synthesis of the active form 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1α,25(OH)2D3), and 25-hydroxyvitamin D-24-hydroxylase (CYP24A1) also in the kidneys to inactive 1α,25(OH)2D3. The active hormone has high affinity for and interacts with vitamin D receptor (VDR), a transcription factor, to induce anti-proliferative, anti-invasive, anti-angiogenic, anti-inflammatory, pro-apoptotic and pro-differentiation actions in prostate cancer cells. However, it is now recognized that CYP27B1 and CYP24A1 are also expressed in many tissues and cells, including the prostate. Although six CYP enzymes have been identified with 25-hydroxylase activity, the two major ones are CYP27A1 and CYP2R1, and both are expressed in the prostate with CYP2R1 as the main 25-hydroxylase. The finding demonstrates that prostate tissue has the ability to activate and inactivate vitamin D in an autocrine/paracrine fashion. Recently 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25(OH)D3) and its analogs, without converting to their 1α-hydroxylated counter parts, have been shown to bind to VDR as agonists to modulate various gene expressions that ultimately lead to cell growth arrest and other anti-tumor activities. The finding suggests that the circulating levels of 25(OH)D, and the autocrine synthesis of 25(OH)D3 and 1α,25(OH)2D3 may play an important role in regulating the growth of prostate cancer. Thus, in addition to 1α,25(OH)2D3 analogs, the presence of CYP2R1, CYP27B1 and CYP24A1 in the prostate suggests that the analogs of vitamin D3 and 25(OH)D3, especially those that are resistant to CYP24A1 degradation, can be developed and used for the prevention and treatment of prostate cancer.
Comparative Criminal Law

Comparative criminal law is alternately described as the origin and as the poor relations of comparative legal scholarship. This essay explores the history and uses of comparative criminal law, along with its limitations and its promise, which remains as yet unfulfilled.
GEM-based TPC with CCD imaging for directional dark matter detection

Abstract The most mature directional dark matter experiments at present all utilize low-pressure gas Time Projection Chamber (TPC) technologies. We discuss some of the challenges for this technology, for which balancing the goal of achieving the best sensitivity with that of cost effective scale-up requires optimization over a large parameter space. Critical for this are the precision measurements of the fundamental properties of both electron and nuclear recoil tracks down to the lowest detectable energies. Such measurements are necessary to provide a benchmark for background discrimination and directional sensitivity that could be used for future optimization studies for directional dark matter experiments. In this paper we describe a small, high resolution, high signal-to-noise GEM-based TPC with a 2D CCD readout designed for this goal. The performance of the detector was characterized using alpha particles, X-rays, gamma-rays, and neutrons, enabling detailed measurements of electron and nuclear recoil tracks. Stable effective gas gains of greater than 1 × 105 were obtained in 100 Torr of pure CF4 by a cascade of three standard CERN GEMs each with a 140 µm pitch. The high signal-to-noise and sub-millimeter spatial resolution of the GEM amplification and CCD readout, together with low diffusion, allow for excellent background discrimination between electron and nuclear recoils down below ∼10 keVee (∼23 keVr fluorine recoil). Even lower thresholds, necessary for the detection of low mass WIMPs for example, might be achieved by lowering the pressure and utilizing full 3D track reconstruction. These and other paths for improvements are discussed, as are possible fundamental limitations imposed by the physics of energy loss.
The Removal of the Massachusetts General Court from Boston, 1769–1772

O N JUNE 14, 1769, Governor Francis Bernard ordered the Massachusetts General Court to leave its traditional seat in Boston and to reassemble in Cambridge for the remainder of its session. When Lieutenant Governor Thomas Hutchinson, on March 8, 1770, summoned the Court to meet in Cambridge, he provoked a constitutional crisis in Massachusetts and instigated a controversy which lasted for more than two years.1 Hutchinson claimed that his royal instructions required him to remove the Court from Boston's turbulent influences. The Court, in turn, challenged the power of the crown to interfere in the provincial matter of calling, proroguing, and dissolving the assembly. It further questioned whether Hutchinson was actually bound by an explicit instruction and suspected him of harassing the Court out of whimsy. In the process of demanding the Court's return to
An Expert System for the Prediction of Student Performance in an Initial Computer Science Course (Abstract Only)

There are many factors that play a part in how a student performs during a course. Some of these factors can be looked at in hindsight to help suggest why a student may or may not have done well in class. This poster assesses the potential of predicting student performance in an introductory computer science class using information about students' preparation, attitudes and study habits. An expert system has been utilized for this purpose. The expert system accepts data related to seven different categories of preparation, belief and attitude and, through the partial activation of multiple rules, predicts an outcome for each student on the post-test (which should correlate with and is used as a surrogate for the student's final course grade). This poster presents our findings and correlation between certain factors relevant to students' success. It shows how these factors can be used to predict a student's grade and discusses the significance of being able to do so. Thus far, the results from the first sample of data appear promising. The work has shown that certain groups of self-assessment questions have clearly out performed other groups in predicting final test grades. The use of expert system techniques to predict student grades can provide an insight on different factors that affect student performance. Knowledge of characteristics that may lead to poor performance allows instructors to potentially identify students who may be at risk of a low grade and need supplemental instruction, tutoring or other support at the outset of the semester.
Pathological Changes in Liver and Spleen in Nutritional Anemia in Rat

Pure milk fed to young rats produces severe anemia which finally results in death in the majority of cases. In our studies of the pathological changes which take place during the course of nutritional anemia in the albino rat, the findings in the liver and spleen seem to have considerable value in the differential diagnosis of this type of anemia as contrasted with the infectious type caused by Bartonella muris. All our examined animals showed a severe degree of anemia with an erythrocyte count of less than 3 million per c.mm. and a Hb content of less than 4 gm. per 100 cc. Most of the animals died spontaneously, while 5 were killed during the course of the disease. The spontaneous death of the anemic animals was consistently preceded by a rapid loss of weight during the last days of life. The liver and spleen were weighed and fixed with the other organs in Zenker, alcohol and formalin. Slides for microscopic study were stained with hematoxylin-eosin, van Gieson, Mallory, Bielschovsky, Sudan III and Turnb...
Survey of Academy of Management Authors

The article presents a comment on an article titled “A Profile of the Academy of Management Member,” by Professor Roderick A. Forsgren in the March 1969 issue of “Academy of Management Journal.” In...
Epidemiological Analysis of Emergent Public Health Events in Anshun City from 2006 to 2010

Objective To explore the epidemiological characteristics of the emergent public health events in Anshun City,and to look for the control countermeasure. Methods An analysis was made on the information of emergent public health events in AnShun city from 2006 to 2010. Results There were 241 public health emergencies reported in Anshun City during the period of 2006～2010,including 164,000 individuals involved in,7,337 cases of diseases,and 18 cases of death.The attack rate,death rate,and disease mortality rate were 4.47%,0.01%,and 0.25%,respectively.There were 4 large-level events(all were food poisoning),97 general-level events,and 140 untreated events reported;and the attack rate,death rate and disease mortality rate of the large-level events were the highest(χ2=552.97、11,739.06、656.99,P0.005).There were 225 infectious disease events(including 6,911 cases),15 food poisoning events(423 cases),and 1 environmental-factor event(3 cases) reported;and the attack rate,death rate and disease mortality rate of the environmental-factor event were the highest(χ2=140.16、3,057.28、171.41,P0.005). All infectious disease events belonged to general-level events or untreated events,and most of them were the infectious diseases of respiratory tract(89.78%) and gastrointestinal tract(7.11%).Among food poisoning events,the attack rate of plant food poisoning was the highest,and the death rate of unidentified food poisoning was the highest(χ2=146.45、13.43,P0.005).The report time focused on the second quarter(49.79%) and the fourth quarter(27.80%).There were emergent public health events reported in 8 counties(districts);the number of the events and the number of the cases occurred in Xixiu District were the highest,accounting for 31.32% and 26.96%,respectively;the attack rate of Huangguoshu District was the highest(16.20%),(χ2=1,788.90,P0.005).Among the 241 public health emergencies,204 events which occurred in schools accounted for 84.65% of the total emergencies,followed by rural villages(8.71%).The attack rate of collective eatery was the highest(8.33%),followed by schools(5.30%),(χ2=821.20,P0.005). Conclusions Most of the emergent public health events reported in Anshun City during the period of 2006～2010 belonged to general-level events or untreated events.The event classification mainly focused on the infectious diseases and food poisoning.Schools and rural villages were the main event-occurrence locations.The second quarter and the fourth quarter were the main onset seasons,which accorded with the cycle of the students going back to school.It is necessary to enhance the surveillance of the infectious diseases,especially the easy-transmitted infectious diseases of respiratory tract and gastrointestinal tract,implement the five-early-system of infectious diseases,and control the epidemic within the minimum scope.The standardized management of food safety should be strengthened so as to eliminate the food poisoning events.
Cold ischemia and reperfusion each produce pulmonary vasomotor dysfunction in the transplanted lung

Pulmonary vascular resistance is significantly increased in the transplanted lung. We hypothesized that the ischemic or reperfusion injuries incurred by the transplanted lung may produce pulmonary vasomotor dysfunction, which in turn may produce increased pulmonary vascular resistance. In a dog model of autologous lung transplantation, the purpose of this study was to examine the following mechanisms of pulmonary vasomotor control and to relate each of them to cold ischemia and to reperfusion: (1) endothelium-dependent cyclic guanosine monophosphate–mediated vasorelaxation (response to acetylcholine 10–6 mol/L), (2) endothelium-independent cyclic guanosine monophosphate–mediated vasorelaxation (response to sodium nitroprusside 10–6 mol/L), and β-adrenergic cyclic adenosine monophosphate–mediated vasorelaxation (response to isoproterenol 10–6 mol/L). Autologous right lung transplantation was performed in five dogs. At each of three times, two third-order pulmonary arteries were dissected from each transplanted lung and studied: control (immediately after harvest), cold ischemia (3 hours in 4° C saline solution), and cold ischemia plus reperfusion (1 hour after lung reimplantation). The vasorelaxing effects of acetylcholine, sodium nitroprusside, and isoproterenol were studied in isolated pulmonary arterial rings, suspended on fine wire tensiometers in individual organ chambers. Statistical analysis was by analysis of variance. Results demonstrated significant dysfunction of β-adrenergic cyclic adenosine monophosphate–mediated relaxation after cold ischemia alone, and this dysfunction was exacerbated by reperfusion. Endothelium-dependent cyclic guanosine monophosphate–mediated relaxation was not impaired by cold ischemia alone but was significantly impaired by reperfusion. Endothelium-independent cyclic guanosine monophosphate–mediated relaxation was not impaired by cold ischemia or reperfusion. We conclude that cold ischemia and reperfusion each produce different patterns of pulmonary vasomotor dysfunction. Cumulatively, such dysfunction may contribute to increased pulmonary vascular resistance in the transplanted lung. ( J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 1993;106:1213-7)