cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Functional Significance of Common Polymorphisms in Zinc Finger Transcription Factors

Variants that alter the DNA-binding specificity of transcription factors could affect the specificity for and expression of potentially many target genes, as has been observed in several tumor-derived mutations. Here we examined if such trans expression quantitative trait loci (trans-eQTLs) could similarly result from common genetic variants. We chose to focus on the Cys2-His2 class of zinc finger transcription factors because they are the most abundant superfamily of transcription factors in human and have well-characterized DNA binding interactions. We identified 430 SNPs that cause missense substitutions in the DNA-contacting residues. Fewer common missense SNPs were found at DNA-contacting residues compared with non-DNA-contacting residues (P = 0.00006), consistent with possible functional selection against SNPs at DNA-contacting positions. Functional predictions based on zinc finger transcription factor (ZNF) DNA binding preferences also suggested that many common substitutions could potentially alter binding specificity. However, Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium analysis and examination of seven orthologs within the primate lineage failed to find evidence of trans-eQTLs associated with the DNA-contacting positions or evidence of a different selection pressure on a contemporary and evolutionary timescales. The overall conclusion was that common SNPs that alter the DNA-contacting residues of these factors are unlikely to produce strong trans-eQTLs, consistent with the observations by others that trans-eQTLs in humans tend to be few and weak. Some rare SNPs might alter specificity and remained rare due to purifying selection. The study also underscores the need for large-scale eQTLs mapping efforts that might provide experimental evidence for SNPs that alter the choice of transcription factor binding sites.
Homosexual Applicants to the Priesthood: How Many and Are They Psychologically Healthy?

The current investigation evaluated the psychological profiles of applicants to seminary who were identified as being either homosexual or heterosexual in orientation. The MMPI-2 from 63 seminary applicants conducted between 1990 and 2004 was reviewed. Results indicate that 49 applicants (78%) identified themselves as being heterosexual while 14 applicants (22%) identified themselves as being homosexual. Few psychological differences emerged on the MMPI-2 when comparing heterosexual to homosexual applicants.
The design of the Integrated Information Center project

This article describes the information environment at the University of Minnesota at the beginning of the Integrated Information Center (IIC) project, the proposed design of the IIC, and the proposed organization structure of the IIC. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
New efficiency theory: extensions and new applications of data envelopment analysis

New types of characterization of Pareto efficiency based on data envelopment analysis are extended here in several new directions involving allocative efficiency and stochastic filtering methods.
Quantum Monte Carlo simulations and maximum entropy: Dynamics from imaginary-time data.

We report the details of an application of the method of maximum entropy to the extraction of spectral and transport properties from the imaginary-time correlation functions generated from quantum Monte Carlo simulations of the nondegenerate, symmetric, single-impurity Anderson model. We find that these physical properties are approximately universal functions of temperature and frequency when these parameters are scaled by the Kondo temperature. We also found that important details for successful extractions included the generation of statistically independent, Gaussian-distributed data, and a good choice of a default model to represent the state of our prior knowledge about the result in the absence of data. We suggest that our techniques are not restricted to the Hamiltonian and quantum Monte Carlo algorithm used here, but that maximum entropy and these techniques lay the general groundwork for the extraction of dynamical information from imaginary-time data generated by other quantum Monte Carlo simulations.
TWO NEW SPECIES OF PHARYNGODONIDAE (NEMATODA: OXYUROIDEA) AND OTHER NEMATODES IN AGAMA CAUDOSPINA (SQUAMATA: AGAMIDAE) FROM KENYA, AFRICA

Parapharyngodon kenyaensis n. sp. and Thelandros samburuensis n. sp. (Nematoda: Pharyngodonidae) from the large intestine of the agamid lizard (Agama caudospina) are described and illustrated. Parapharyngodon kenyaensis n. sp. is the 41st species assigned to the genus, and it differs from other species in that genus by possessing 3 pairs of caudal papillae, cloacal lip adornment, and spicules of 112–120 μm in length. Thelandros samburuensis n. sp. is the 31st species assigned to the genus, and it differs from other species in that genus by possessing swollen posterior annulations, 6 caudal papillae, a smooth anterior cloacal lip, and spicules of 43–52 μm in length. In addition to the 2 new nematode species, Abbreviata ortleppi (Nematoda: Physalopteridae) and Strongyluris ornata (Nematoda: Heterakidae) were found.
Pseudo-tetrablock copolymers with ethylene and a functionalized comonomer

Pseudo-tetrablock copolymers comprised of ethylene and 5-norbornen-2-yl acetate (1), were synthesized using the initiator system (LiPr2)Ni(η1-CH2Ph)(PMe3) (2) [(LiPr2) = N-(2,6-diisopropylphenyl)-2-(2,6-diisopropylphenylimino)propanamide] and 2.5 equivalents of Ni(COD)2 [bis(1,5-cyclooctadiene) nickel.
Thermodynamics of a transition state analogue inhibitor binding to Escherichia coli chorismate mutase: probing the charge state of an active site residue and its role in inhibitor binding and catalysis.

Electrostatic interactions play important roles in the catalysis of chorismate to prephenate by chorismate mutase. Mutation of Gln88 to glutamate in the monofunctional chorismate mutase from Escher...
Quantitative analysis of the relative effectiveness of 3 iliotibial band stretches

Abstract Fredericson M, White JJ, MacMahon JM, Andriacchi TP. Quantitative analysis of the relative effectiveness of 3 iliotibial band stretches. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2002;83:589-92. Objective: To compare the relative effectiveness of 3 common standing stretches for the iliotibial band (ITB): arms at side (stretch A), arms extending overhead (stretch B), and arms reaching diagonally downward (stretch C). Design: Each subject's biomechanics was captured as a 3-dimensional image by using a 4-camera gait acquisition system with a forceplate. Setting: University biomotion laboratory. Participants: Five male elite-level distance runners. Interventions: All participants performed each of the 3 standing stretches for the ITB. Main Outcome Measures: For each stretch, change in ITB tissue length and the force generated within the stretched complex was measured. Data were then combined and analyzed by using kinetic values assessment. Results: All 3 stretches created statistically significant changes in ITB length ( P Conclusions: Adding an overhead arm extension to the most common standing ITB stretch may increase average ITB length change and average external adduction moments in elite-level distance runners. © 2002 by the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine and the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
An infrared study of CO adsorption on Pt(111)

Abstract Infrared spectroscopy of isotopic mixtures is used to examine island formation during carbon monoxide (CO) adsorption on Pt(111) at 300 K. It was found that the linear CO band shifts from 2084.0 cm−1 at low coverage to 2094.7 cm−1 at saturation. This shift can be decomposed into a 14.4 cm−1 downward shift due to changes in the binding of the CO with coverage, and a 25.1 cm−1 upward shift due to dipole interactions within the adlayer. Analysis of the measured band shifts with coverage and isotopic dilution shows that no islands are formed upon CO adsorption on Pt(111) at low coverage. The interpretation of the data is less clear at high coverage. However, all of the observations can be explained without invoking island formation.
An implantable cardioverter-defibrillator but not amiodarone reduced risk for death in congestive heart failure.

Source Citation Bardy GH, Lee KL, Mark DB, et al. Amiodarone or an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator for congestive heart failure. N Engl J Med. 2005;352:225-37. 15659722
Similarity transformations of the complex Ginzburg-Landau and associated equations

Abstract Lie group theory is used to construct the similarity transformations of the two-dimensional complex Ginzburg-Landau and associated equations (the linear heat and bar equations, and the non-linear Schrodinger equation).
Working memory training improves visual short-term memory capacity.

Since antiquity, philosophers, theologians, and scientists have been interested in human memory. However, researchers today are still working to understand the capabilities, boundaries, and architecture. While the storage capabilities of long-term memory are seemingly unlimited (Bahrick, J Exp Psychol 113:1–2, 1984), working memory, or the ability to maintain and manipulate information held in memory, seems to have stringent capacity limits (e.g., Cowan, Behav Brain Sci 24:87–185, 2001). Individual differences, however, do exist and these differences can often predict performance on a wide variety of tasks (cf. Engle What is working-memory capacity? 297–314, 2001). Recently, researchers have promoted the enticing possibility that simple behavioral training can expand the limits of working memory which indeed may also lead to improvements on other cognitive processes as well (cf. Morrison and Chein, Psychol Bull Rev 18:46–60 2011). However, initial investigations across a wide variety of cognitive functions have produced mixed results regarding the transferability of training-related improvements. Across two experiments, the present research focuses on the benefit of working memory training on visual short-term memory capacity—a cognitive process that has received little attention in the training literature. Data reveal training-related improvement of global measures of visual short-term memory as well as of measures of the independent sub-processes that contribute to capacity (Awh et al., Psychol Sci 18(7):622–628, 2007). These results suggest that the ability to inhibit irrelevant information within and between trials is enhanced via n-back training allowing for selective improvement on untrained tasks. Additionally, we highlight a potential limitation of the standard adaptive training procedure and propose a modified design to ensure variability in the training environment.
Feasibility of inducing micturition through chronic stimulation of sacral roots

Past attempts at inducing micturition in paraplegics by electric stimulation of the spinal cord micturition center have been generally unsuccessful. Failure has most often resulted from inability to separate the response of the detrusor from that of the sphincter. Because the sacral nerves provide some organizational specificity over the spinal cord and are practically suited to chronic stimulation, experiments were carried out in dogs to find out whether or not stimulation of these roots could induce micturition. Results of acute dog studies did suggest that micturition might effectively be performed by stimulation of the ventral root of the sacral nerve having the greatest detrusor representation. Specificity of bladder response was improved by dividing somatic fibers peripherally. Selected division of somatic fibers from the sacral root stimulated was compared with complete pudendal neurotomy. (The former procedure has the advantage of preserving perineal sensation.) The principles learned from the acute studies were then applied to "chronic" dogs--5 paraplegic and 1 normal. Effective voiding was achieved on a long-term basis. Over-all results were very encouraging. Further research is necessary before application of this technique to humans can be considered.
Comparison of dynamic block randomization and minimization in randomized trials: a simulation study

Background Minimizing the imbalance of key baseline covariates between treatments is known to be very important to the precision of the estimate of treatment effect in clinical research. Dynamic randomization allocation techniques have been used to achieve balance across multiple baseline characteristics. However, empirical data are limited on how these techniques compare in terms of balance and efficiency. We are motivated by a newly funded randomized controlled trial, in which we have the option of choosing between two methods of randomization at the subject level: (1) randomizing individual subjects consecutively as they are enrolled, using Pocock and Simon’s minimization method, and (2) simultaneously randomizing blocks of subjects once all subjects in a block have been enrolled, using a balance algorithm originally developed for cluster randomized trials.Purpose To compare dynamic block randomization and minimization in terms of balance on baseline covariates and statistical efficiency. Simple random...
High Efficiency Collimator-Converters for Neutral Particle Imaging with MWPC

A MWPC with external collimator converter system has been developed specifically for the detection of 0.511 MeV gammas in a positron camera. The design basis is applicable also to the imaging of other gammas and neutrons. The converter consists of honeycomb cells which provide an enhanced area of escape surface as well as restricting the range of conversion electrons to the cell dimensions. (WHK)
Raman scattering study of adsorption/desorption of water from single-walled carbon nanotubes

We utilized Raman spectroscopy to investigate H2O adsorption in and desorption from single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). SWCNT tips were opened by known chemical methods and H2O was inserted into the tubes via capillary action over periods up to 136 h. The wavenumbers in the OH bending region of H2O increase almost exponentially with H2O treatment time. Following H2O adsorption for 136 h, Raman spectra were also measured as a function of heat-treatment temperature. These data lead to 0.07 eV for the H2O desorption energy from SWCNTs. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reduction of terphenyl iron(II) or cobalt(II) halides in the presence of trimethylphosphine: an unusual triple dehydrogenation of an alkyl group

The reduction of {ArFeBr}2 (Ar = terphenyl) with KC8 in the presence of excess PMe3 afforded the Fe(I) complex 3,5-Pri2-Ar′Fe(PMe3) (1) (Ar′-3,5-Pri2 = C6H-2,6-(C6H3-2,6-Pri2)-3,5-Pri2), which has a structure very different from the previously reported, linear Cr(I) species 3,5-Pri2-Ar*Cr(PMe3) (3,5-Pri2-Ar* = C6H-2,6-(C6H2–2,4,6-Pri3)2–3,5-Pri2) and features a strong Fe-η6-aryl interaction with the flanking aryl ring of the terphenyl ligand. In sharp contrast, the reduction of {ArCoCl}2 (Ar = 3,5-Pri2-Ar′ and Ar′) afforded the allyl complexes Co(η3-{1-(H2C)2C-C6H3–2-(C6H2–2,4-Pri2–5-(C6H3–2,6-Pri2))-3-Pri})(PMe3)3 (4) and Co(η3-{1-(H2C)2C-C6H3–2-(C6H4–3-(C6H3–2,6-Pri2))-3-Pri})(PMe3)3 (5) formed by an unusual triple dehydrogenation of an isopropyl group. It is proposed that the reduction initially generates an intermediate 3,5-Pri2-Ar′Co(PMe3), which is similar in structure to 1, followed by 3,5-Pri2-Ar′Co(PMe3) decomposition to a cobalt hydride intermediate and dehydrogenation of the isopropyl groupvia remote C–H activation induced by PMe3 complexation. Complexes 1, 4, and 5 were characterized by X-ray crystallography. In addition, 1 was studied by NMR and EPR spectroscopy; 4 and 5 were characterized by NMR spectroscopy.
Effects of sulfate concentration, electroendosmotic flow, and electrical resistance of agars and agaroses on counterimmunoelectrophoresis with adenovirus antigens and antisera.

Abstract The sulfate concentration, electroendosmosis (EE), and electrical resistance of 23 commonly used agars and agaroses were measured by standard techniques and related to counterimmunoelectrophoresis (CE) with adenovirus antigens and antisera. Statistical analyses of the test procedures themselves showed that the tests had sufficient reproducibility to warrant further analyses on the interaction or combined effects of these parameters on adenovirus CE tests. Both sulfate concentration and EE were related to CE by cubic polynomial equations; sulfate was directly related to EE by a linear equation. Resistance was somewhat linearly related to CE, but the differences among agars were too small to show a clear correlation. The data show that the fixed charges of the sulfate anion are major, although probably not the only, contributors to EE. The combined EE calculations from spectrophotometrically-scanned and hand-measured slides were used to predict the usefulness of new lots of agaroses for diagnostic adenovirus CE tests, according to the derived equation, CE score = 4.9 + 112.1 EE −397.1 EE 2 + 329.1 EE 3 . The best stabilizing media for adenovirus CE tests had sulfate concentrations of 0.37% ± 0.16% and EE cathodic mobility ratios of 0.17 ± 0.03.
Child Development Abstracts and Bibliography in Retrospect

This is a brief historical sketch of Child Development Abstracts and Bibliography, a professional publication, whose contents include abstracts of the results of published research projects and review summaries of professional books related to child development. Abstracts is child development's oldest publication. Significantly, along with the information retrieval function provided, Abstracts can also be regarded as an historical catalogue of the interdisciplinary scope of the evolving body of information known as child development research.
The Role of Credit in the Theory of the Household

Consumer credit has been neglected in the economic theory of the household. This article examines the role and impacts of credit on household utility, investment, savings and consumption choices. Household consumption-investment models are developed based on the works of Fisher, Lancaster and Becker. Implications are developed for consumer credit use, credit policy and consumer lending institutions.
Photoreactivation of ultraviolet radiation-induced basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and the role of bFGF in corneal lesion formation in Monodelphis domestica.

Chronic ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure to the eyes of Monodelphis domestica causes corneal opacification, neovascularization, and fibrosarcoma induction. By immunohistochemistry and Western blotting, we have shown that one to four exposures of the eyes of this opossum to UVR enhances basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) expression by the corneal epithelium. Treatment with photoreactivating light, which selectively removes UVR-induced pyrimidine dimers, suppresses bFGF induction, indicating that UVR induction of bFGF is ultimately due to DNA damage. Furthermore, UVR-induced corneal tumors derived from corneal keratocytes express bFGF mRNA and protein, as determined by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization. Taken together, these findings suggest that bFGF acts in both an autocrine and a paracrine manner to stimulate corneal fibroplasia, neovascularization, and tumor development.
A Photographic Spark Chamber for Manned Satellites

The advent of manned space flight for extended periods will allow the retrieval of important photographic data. Under construction is a gamma ray spark chamber with photographic recording which is a prototype for manned satellite applications. On a 14-day orbital flight it can detect a point source of ?-rays of intensity 10-7 photons cm-2 sec-1 and can determine the power law dependence of the energy spectrum for a 10-6 source. The ?-ray energy can be measured from 2.5?107 to 5?109 ev. The counter triggering arrangement will have a 3? anticoincidence shield plus a directional Cerenkov detector to minimize accidental triggerings of the chamber. A high altitude balloon flight of this system in Panama is scheduled for October, 1965. Two smaller spark chambers, designed to detect cosmic ray gamma rays and electrons, have been flown on a series of 15 flights from 120,000 to 140,000 ft. over the past two years.
Converting public housing to cooperatives: The experience of three developments

Abstract This article assesses the feasibility of converting public housing developments to limited‐equity cooperatives to increase tenants’ control over their living environments. It analyzes the experience of three housing developments converted under the Public Housing Homeownership Demonstration of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Obstacles to conversion included the extensive renovations needed before transfer, the prohibition against involuntary relocation of tenants, the work of generating interest in the cooperatives, and the difficulty of financing. Indicators of the cooperatives’ success are mixed. One faces serious financial problems; the other two are financially sound despite substantial amounts of share payments in arrears. One set of cooperators is largely dissatisfied with living in the cooperative; the other two sets are mildly satisfied. Factors inhibiting greater success included inadequate board training, poor communication between board and residents, lack of part...
Semantic memory: Distinct neural representations for abstractness and valence

Abstract The hypothesis that abstract words are grounded in emotion has been supported by behavioral research and corpus studies of English words. A recent neuroimaging study reported that a single brain region, the rostral anterior cingulate cortex (rACC), is responsive to abstract words, and is furthermore modulated by the emotional valence. This finding is surprising because the rACC is not commonly associated with semantic processing. It is possible that the effects observed were driven not by abstractness, but rather by valence, since the abstract words used in that study were significantly more emotional than the concrete words. We tested this hypothesis by presenting participants with words that were abstract/concrete, as well as emotionally valenced/neutral in a 2 × 2 factorial design. Activations to emotional words overlapped with both abstract and concrete activations throughout the brain. An ROI analysis revealed that the rACC was responsive to valence, not abstractness, when concreteness and valence unconfounded.
Strategic ambidexterity in innovation: an indispensable capability in the face of change

Ambidexterity is a dynamic capability that may be fulfilled through prudent implementation of organizational processes necessary for product innovation. In this research, a model is tested using data collected from US high technology manufacturers. Results indicate that firms interested in pursuing strategic ambidexterity in innovation should implement all the studied processes in order to improve radical and incremental innovation output. Furthermore, post hoc exploratory analysis suggests that US high technology industries appear to be divided as to the levels of exploration, exploitation, and ambidexterity that they attain.
Caspofungin for invasive candidiasis at a tertiary care medical center.

Abstract Background Caspofungin is emerging as first-line therapy for invasive candidiasis. Data on the use of caspofungin for treatment for invasive candidiasis are limited to clinical trials and case reports. We report a single-center experience with 104 consecutive courses of caspofungin for the treatment of invasive candidiasis to evaluate a real-world performance of this drug. Methods A retrospective chart review of patients receiving caspofungin at a tertiary care medical center was performed. Patient information and microbiologic data were abstracted from patient charts and electronic medical records. Results Of 241 patients receiving caspofungin for all indications, 122 (51%) had proven invasive candidiasis. There were 104 treatment courses for candidiasis in 99 patients available for review. Bloodstream (66%) and abdominal infections (25%) were the most common sites of infection. Most infections were non- albicans (80/104, 77%; including patients infected with more than one species). Clinical cure rates at the end of therapy were 83% (57/69) for bloodstream infections and 84% (22/26) for abdominal infections. Caspofungin did not clear candidiasis in 14 episodes (microbiologic cure rate 75%, 42/56). Conclusions The clinical use of caspofungin has been successful in the treatment of invasive candidiasis, even in patients with prior antifungal exposure. In this unselected review, caspofungin performed similarly as in clinical trials, and clinicians should consider caspofungin as first-line therapy for invasive candidiasis, particularly non- albicans species.
Multicentric infantile myofibromatosis.

Abstract Infantile myofibromatosis (IM) is a rare tumor of infancy and childhood, typically presenting as a firm, nodular mass involving soft tissue, bone or viscera. Approximately one-third of cases involve the head and neck. These tumors can be solitary or multicentric. Biopsy reveals tumor cells that resemble myofibroblasts. Spontaneous regression may occur. A high degree of suspicion is necessary to differentiate this entity from other more aggressive processes—histiocytosis, fibrosarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma. We describe the case of a male infant with multicentric myofibromatosis, presenting with multiple thoraco-abdominal subcutaneous nodules and lytic mass lesions of the temporal bone and calvarium. The characteristic clinical, radiologic and histopathologic features of this process are reviewed along with diagnostic and therapeutic options.
Dynamics and Control of Biofilms of the Oligotrophic Bacterium Caulobacter crescentus

Caulobacter crescentus is an oligotrophic α-proteobacterium with a complex cell cycle involving sessile-stalked and piliated, flagellated swarmer cells. Because the natural lifestyle of C. crescentus intrinsically involves a surface-associated, sessile state, we investigated the dynamics and control of C. crescentus biofilms developing on glass surfaces in a hydrodynamic system. In contrast to biofilms of the well-studied Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Vibrio cholerae, C. crescentus CB15 cells form biphasic biofilms, consisting predominantly of a cell monolayer biofilm and a biofilm containing densely packed, mushroom-shaped structures. Based on comparisons between the C. crescentus strain CB15 wild type and its holdfast (hfsA; ΔCC0095), pili (ΔpilA-cpaF::Ωaac3), motility (motA), flagellum (flgH) mutants, and a double mutant lacking holdfast and flagellum (hfsA; flgH), a model for biofilm formation in C. crescentus is proposed. For both biofilm forms, the holdfast structure at the tip of a stalked cell is crucial for mediating the initial attachment. Swimming motility by means of the single polar flagellum enhances initial attachment and enables progeny swarmer cells to escape from the monolayer biofilm. The flagellum structure also contributes to maintaining the mushroom structure. Type IV pili enhance but are not absolutely required for the initial adhesion phase. However, pili are essential for forming and maintaining the well-defined three-dimensional mushroom-shaped biofilm. The involvement of pili in mushroom architecture is a novel function for type IV pili in C. crescentus. These unique biofilm features demonstrate a spatial diversification of the C. crescentus population into a sessile, “stem cell”-like subpopulation (monolayer biofilm), which generates progeny cells capable of exploring the aqueous, oligotrophic environment by swimming motility and a subpopulation accumulating in large mushroom structures.
Development of a New Type of Artificial Cornea for Treatment of Endstage Corneal Diseases

We report here the development of a cornea replacement implant which differs from corneal prostheses currently in use, in that it does not protrude into the inner eye nor is it made from hard materials. Our implant lies in the plane of the natural cornea and is made of flexible polymeric materials. The implant extends radially into the sclera where cellular attachment and infiltration from the surrounding tissue anchor the implant in place. The materials selected for fabrication of the prosthesis were chosen on the basis of the results of intralamellar implants in rabbit eyes. The prosthesis was evaluated by long-term implantation in cat eyes. Light microscopy and SEM were used to analyze the type and degree of cellular anchoring and ingrowth in the implant and the surrounding tissue response. The implant remained clear in the eyes for over a year without the adverse reactions seen with currently available implants.
Plant photosynthesis phenomics data quality control

Motivation: Plant phenomics, the collection of large-scale plant phenotype data is growing exponentially. The resources have become essential component of modern plant science. Such complex data sets are critical for understanding the mechanisms governing energy intake and storage in plants, and this is essential for improving crop productivity. However, a major issue facing these efforts is the determination of the quality of phenotypic data. Automated methods are needed to identify and characterize alteractions caused by system errors, all of which are difficult to remove in the data collection step, and distinguish them from more interesting cases of altered biological responses. Results: As a step towards solving this problem, we have developed a coarse-to-refined model called Dynamic Filter to identify abnormalities in plant photosynthesis phenotype data by comparing light responses of photosynthesis using a simplified kinetic model of photosynthesis. Dynamic Filter employs an Expectation-Maximization process to adjust the kinetic model in coarse and refined regions to identify both abnormalities and biological outliers. The experimental results show that our algorithm can effectively identify most of the abnormalities in both the real and synthetic datasets.
Editorial---Database Submissions

Marketing Science, in collaboration with the Informs Society on Marketing Science (ISMS), announces a new type of authored submission---the database report. Marketing Science will consider the publication of submitted databases. The same standards will apply to these detached databases as for the data employed in submitted manuscripts.
Reactive Oxygen Species-Dependent Hypertension in Dopamine D2 Receptor-Deficient Mice

Dysfunction of D 2 -like receptors has been reported in essential hypertension. Disruption of D 2 R in mice (D 2 −/− ) results in high blood pressure, and several D 2 R polymorphisms are associated with decreased D 2 R expression. Because D 2 R agonists have antioxidant activity, we hypothesized that increased blood pressure in D 2 −/− is related to increased oxidative stress. D 2 −/− mice had increased urinary excretion of 8-isoprostane, a parameter of oxidative stress; increased activity of reduced nicotinamide-adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase in renal cortex; increased expression of the reduced nicotinamide-adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase subunits Nox1, Nox2, and Nox4; and decreased expression of the antioxidant enzyme heme-oxygenase-2 in the kidneys, suggesting that regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by D 2 R involves both pro-oxidant and antioxidant systems. Apocynin, a reduced nicotinamide-adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase inhibitor, or hemin, an inducer of heme oxigenase-1, normalized the blood pressure in D 2 −/− mice. Because D 2 Rs in the adrenal gland are implicated in aldosterone regulation, we evaluated whether alterations in aldosterone secretion contribute to ROS production in this model. Urinary aldosterone was increased in D 2 −/− mice and its response to a high-sodium diet was impaired. Spirolactone normalized the blood pressure in D 2 −/− mice and the renal expression of Nox1 and Nox4, indicating that the increased blood pressure and ROS production are, in part, mediated by impaired aldosterone regulation. However, spironolactone did not normalize the excretion of 8-isoprostane and had no effect on expression of Nox2 or heme-oxygenase-2. Our results show that the D 2 R is involved in the regulation of ROS production and that, by direct and indirect mechanisms, altered D 2 R function may result in ROS-dependent hypertension.
Control protocol for robust in vitro glial scar formation around microwires: Essential roles of bFGF and serum in gliosis

Abstract Previously, we reported an in vitro cell culture model that recreates many of the hallmarks of glial scarring around electrodes used for recording in the brain; however, the model lacked the reproducibility necessary to establish a useful characterization tool. This methods paper describes a protocol, modeled on protocols typically used to culture neural stem/precursor cells, that generates a predictable positive control of an intense scarring reaction. Six independent cell culture variables (growth media, seeding density, bFGF addition day, serum concentration in treatment media, treatment day, and duration of culture) were varied systematically and the resulting scars were quantified. The following conditions were found to give the highest level of scarring: Neurobasal medium supplemented with B27, 10% fetal bovine serum at treatment, 10 ng/ml b-FGF addition at seeding and at treatment, treatment at least 6 days after seeding and scar growth of at least 5 days. Seeding density did not affect scarring as long as at least 500,000 cells were seeded per well, but appropriate media, bFGF, and serum were essential for significant scar formation—insights that help validate the in vitro-based approach to understanding glial scarring. With the control protocol developed in this study producing a strong, reproducible glial scarring positive control with every dissection, this culture model is suitable for the in vitro study of the mechanisms behind glial scarring and neuroelectrode failure.
Identifying Optimal Treatment Protocols for the Treatment of a Bacterial Infection in a Chronic Ischemic Wound Using Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

While hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a US Food-and Drug Administration ap- proved therapy for chronic wounds, clinical protocols tend to vary, and optimal treatment strategies have yet to be identi_ed. In this work, we will identify optimal treatment protocols for chronic ischemic wounds by using optimal con- trol therapy on the treatment of a bacterial infection in chronic wounds using hyperbaric oxygen therapy. While optimal control theory has been successfully employed to identify treatment protocols for cancer and HIV, optimal control strategies have yet to be applied for the treatment of chronic wounds. In order to do so, I will present our optimal-control mathematical models and results for the treatment of a bacterial infection in a chronic ischemic wound.
Dynamics of a Logarithmic Transimpedance Amplifier

We analyze the dynamics of a logarithmic transimpedance amplifier that are not explainable from its small-signal model. The amplifier was used both to measure pixel currents in an imager as well as currents from a floating gate array for accurate programming. We explain the marked asymmetry between the up-going and down-going current steps intuitively using circuit concepts and then based on phase-plane analysis. This analysis also helps develop a method of reducing the huge delay to down-going current steps.
A functional asymmetry in the Leech Heartbeat Timing Network is revealed by driving the network across various cycle periods.

We tested predictions of a computational model (Hill et al., 2002) of the leech heartbeat timing network. The timing network consists of two segmental oscillators located in the third (G3) and fourth (G4) segmental ganglia. Each oscillator consists of two reciprocally inhibitory oscillator interneurons along with the coordinating interneuron fibers that link them. In the model, the network was driven to cycle periods around the normal period of the network by repeatedly stimulating one of the paired oscillator interneurons in G3 or G4. Here we replicate these experiments in the biological system. The model predicts that the G3 and G4 oscillators can entrain the timing network to periods faster but not slower than the inherent period of the nondriven (“follower”) oscillator and that they can do so symmetrically. The biological system can be driven to periods both faster (such that the driven oscillator leads in phase) and slower (such that the driven oscillator lags in phase) than the inherent period of the timing network. Although both oscillators can entrain the network, the G4 oscillator does so over a narrower range of periods. Two differences between the assumptions of the model and the properties of the biological network, spike frequency adaptation in coordinating interneurons and asymmetry in the connections from the oscillator interneurons to the coordinating interneurons, may account for these discrepancies. Individual coordinating interneurons were also able to entrain the oscillators but with little effect of the phase relationship between the oscillators, suggesting that phase relations are determined by properties inherent to the oscillator interneurons.
Mutagenesis of Legionella pneumophila using Tn903 dlllacZ: identification of a growth-phase-regulated pigmentation gene

Study of the molecular basis for Legionella pneumophila pathogenicity would be facilitated with an efficient mutagen that can not only mark genomic mutations, but can also be used to reflect gene expression during macrophage infection. A derivative of Tn903, Tn903dlllacZ, is shown to transpose with high efficiency in L. pneumophila. Tn903dlllacZ encodes resistance to kanamycin (KmR) and carries a 5' truncated 'lacZ gene that can form translational fusions to L. pneumophila genes upon transposition. The cis-acting Tn903 transposase is supplied outside Tn903dlllacZ, and hence chromosomally integrated copies are stable. KmR LacZ+ insertion mutants of L. pneumophila were isolated and shown by DNA hybridization to carry a single Tn903dlllacZ inserted within their chromosomes at various locations. One particular KmR LacZ+ mutant, AB1156, does not produce the brown pigment (Pig-) characteristic of Legionella species. Tn903dlllacZ is responsible for this phenotype since reintroduction of the transposon-linked mutation into a wild-type background results in a Pig- phenotype. L. pneumophila pigment production is normally observed in stationary-phase growth of cells in culture, and beta-galactosidase activity measured from the pig::lacZ fusion increased during the logarithmic-phase growth and peaked at the onset of stationary phase. Interestingly, pig::lacZ expression also increased during macrophage infection. The pigment itself, however, does not appear to be required for L. pneumophila to grow within or kill host macrophages.
Effects of Soil Nutrient Availability on the Role of Sexual Reproduction in an Alaskan Tundra Plant Community

Abstract In a warming climate, sexual reproduction may play an important role in plant community composition in arctic tundra. As temperatures increase and currently immobilized soil nutrients become available, flowering, fruiting, and germination conditions will likely improve. We examined how experimentally adding soil nutrients for 13 and 20 years affected species composition, flower and fruit production, seed dispersal, composition of the seed bank, and seedling establishment in a dry heath plant community in northern Alaska. Fertilizer addition significantly shifted adult community composition by decreasing lichens and evergreen shrubs and increasing abundance of a bunchgrass, Hierochloe alpina, and dwarf birch, Betula nana. More seeds were dispersed adjacent to nutrient amended plots, particularly of B. nana, and soil seed banks differed significantly between control and fertilized soils reflecting the adult communities in the field. Few seedlings were observed in any field plots. However, seeds of ...
Kinematics of the Galactic Bulge: The Velocity Ellipsoid

We investigate the shape of the velocity ellipsoid in the Galactic bulge by combining radial. velocities and proper motions. We find that the velocity ellipsoid is nearly isotropic.
The Primate Ovarian Cycle: Suppression of Human Menopausal Gonadotropin-Induced Follicular Growth in the Presence of the Dominant Follicle*

In women and higher primates, only a single follicle is ovulated in the typical menstrual cycle; thereby necessitating some mode of between-ovary communication to account for asymmetrical ovarian function. However, when supraphysiological gonadotropin levels are provided, multiple ovulations often result. When in the primate ovarian cycle do gonadotropins influence selection of this single dominant follicle? Also, how does the dominant follicle thrive during subjugation of all other follicles? To study these questions, 15 adult cycling cynomolgus monkeys were given human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG; 75 IU FSH/75 IU LH) daily in one of 3 regimens: 1) days 1–3 of the menstrual cycle (early follicular), 2) days 4–6 (midfollicular), or 3) days 8–10 (late follicular). Daily serum concentrations of FSH, LH, estradiol, and progesterone were determined by RIA. Monkeys given hMG in the early or midfollicular phase initially secreted large amounts of estradiol (300–400 pg/ml; P < 0.01) during hMG therapy. However,...
Incremental low-discrepancy lattice methods for motion planning

We present deterministic sequences for use in sampling-based approaches to motion planning. They simultaneously combine the qualities found in many other sequences: i) the incremental and self-avoiding tendencies of pseudo-random sequences, ii) the lattice structure provided by multiresolution grids, and iii) low-discrepancy and low-dispersion measures of uniformity provided by quasi-random sequences. The resulting sequences can be considered as multiresolution grids in which points may be added one at a time, while satisfying the sampling qualities at each iteration. An efficient, recursive algorithm for generating the sequences is presented and implemented. Early experiments show promising performance by using the samples in search algorithms to solve motion planning problems.
Ovine Progressive Pneumonia Virus Capsid Antigen as Found in CD163- and CD172a-Positive Alveolar Macrophages of Persistently Infected Sheep

In situ detection of ovine progressive pneumonia virus (OPPV) and the phenotypic identification of the cells that harbor OPPV have not been described for the OPPV-affected tissues, which include lung, mammary gland, synovial membranes of the carpal joint, and choroid plexus of the brain. In this study, the authors first developed a single enzyme-based automated immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis for detection of OPPV capsid antigen (CA) on OPPV-affected tissues, using 2 anti-CAEV CA monoclonal antibodies, 5A1 and 10A1, and 2 enzyme-based IHC systems. Out of 10 naturally and persistently OPPVinfected ewes, OPPV CA was detected in intercellular regions of the carpal synovial membrane of 1 ewe, in cells resembling alveolar macrophages and pulmonary interstitial macrophages in lung tissue of 3 ewes, and in mammary alveolar cells of 1 ewe. Furthermore, dual enzyme-based automated IHC analyses revealed that OPPV CA was predominantly detected in CD172a- or CD163positive alveolar macrophages of the lungs and mammary gland. That anti-inflammatory (CD163) and downregulatory (CD172a) types of alveolar macrophage harbor OPPV CA leads to the possibility that during persistent infection with OPPV, the host alveolar macrophage might serve to limit inflammation while OPPV persists undetected by the host adaptive immune response in the lung and mammary gland.
Crystal engineering principles applied to solution photochemistry: controlling the photodimerization of stilbazolium salts within γ-cyclodextrin and cucurbit[8]uril in water

Borrowing concepts from crystal engineering techniques we have been able to steer the photodimerization of stilbazolium salts included in γ-cyclodextrin towards a desired dimer.
Alison Gregory Named Director of Library Services at Lycoming College

Alison S. Gregory has been named Lycoming College’s Associate Dean and Director of Library Services at the John G. Snowden Memorial Library, according to an announcement by Dr. Phil Sprunger, Provost and Dean of the college. She began her duties July 1, having served the college since 2005 as Assistant Professor and Instructional Services Librarian and Coordinator of Information Literacy and Outreach. She is replacing Janet McNeil Hurlbert, who retired at the conclusion of the 2012-13 academic year.
Impact ionization FETs based on silicon nanowires

Vertical impact ionization of single surround-gated silicon nanowire field-effect transistor (NW FET) have been demonstrated that allow for very steep sub-threshold swings, low operating voltages and low leakage current. As a result the standby power of highly integrated circuits dramatically decreases.
A new model of perceptual threshold functions for application in image compression systems

This paper discusses the development of a perceptual threshold model for the human visual system. The perceptual threshold functions describe the levels of distortions present at each location in an image that human observers can not detect. Models of perceptual threshold functions are useful in image compression problems because an image compression system that constrains the distortion in the coded images below the levels suggested by the perceptual threshold function performs perceptually lossless compression. Our model involves the decomposition of an input image into its Fourrier components and spatially localized Gabor elementary functions. Data from psychophysical masking experiments are then used to calculate the perceptual detection threshold for each Gabor transform coefficient in the presence of sinusoidal masks. The result of one experiment involving distorting an image using additive noise of magnitudes as suggested by the threshold model is also included in this paper.
Meningocoele of fallopian canal causing recurrent meningitis

Objective: We report a rare case of meningocoele of the fallopian canal resulting in recurrent meningitis. Methods: We present a case report together with a review of the world literature concerning meningocoele of the fallopian canal and meningitis. Results: A child developed profound, bilateral, sensorineural hearing loss as a result of meningitis caused by a meningocoele of the fallopian canal. He was treated with bilateral cochlear implantation, with a subtotal petrosectomy and middle ear and eustachian tube obliteration on the affected side. Conclusion: Meningocoele of the fallopian canal has rarely been reported. This lesion can present with recurrent meningitis and, rarely, with facial weakness. All children with recurrent meningitis should be investigated for skull base defects. Treatment aims to prevent further episodes of meningitis; we recommend that this is best achieved by the technique of subtotal petrosectomy, with obliteration of the middle ear and eustachian tube.
BUSINESS RESOURCES AND TAXATION: A CROSS-SECTIONAL EXAMINATION OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ECONOMIC ORGANIZATION AND PUBLIC POLICY

Many writers have speculated about the connection between economic resources of corporations and their ability to dominate politics in democratic societies with advanced capitalist economies. Using a cross-sectional analysis of business taxes in the American states, this study examines the political impact of four economic resources that are plausibly related to heightened business political influence. With seven factors held constant, I find that states with larger enterprises are most likely to have lower taxes on manufacturing, but concentrated sales do not have any effect on these taxes. The degree to which the organizational efforts of firms are handicapped because industry products are diverse also has an independent relationship with state and local taxes paid by manufacturers, but this relationship does not hold when the least industrial states are excluded from the equations. I also find that where competition between political parties is most intense, tax policies will be less likely to favor business interests. It follows that the evidence in this study is consistent with a hypothesis that firms can translate their formidable economic resources into political influence at the state and local level.