cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Covalent attachment of Arc repressor subunits by a peptide linker enhances affinity for operator DNA.

By designing a recombinant gene containing tandem copies of the arc coding sequence with intervening DNA encoding the linker sequence GGGSGGGTGGGSGGG, the two subunits of the P22 Arc repressor dimer have been covalently linked to form a single-chain protein called Arc-L1-Arc. The 15-residue linker joins the C-terminus of one monomer to the N-terminus of the second, a distance of approximately 45 A in the Arc-operator cocrystal structure. Arc-L1-Arc is expressed at high levels in Escherichia coli, with no evidence of degradation or proteolytic clipping of the linker, and is more active than wild-type Arc in repression assays. The purified Arc-L1-Arc protein has the molecular weight expected for the designed protein and unfolds cooperatively, reversibly, and with no concentration dependence in thermal-denaturation studies. Arc-L1-Arc protects operator DNA in a manner indistinguishable from that of wild-type Arc in DNase I and copper−phenanthroline footprinting studies, but the covalent attachment of the two...
A QUANTITATIVE METHOD FOR MEASURING SEX “BIAS” IN STANDARDIZED TESTS1

The item content of eight standardized tests was examined for sex imbalance as well as for stereotyped representations of women. A quantitative method for classifying tests with respect to sex imbalance was devised which depended upon the frequency counts of male and female nouns and pronouns. Applications of this method revealed that all eight of the standardized tests exhibited considerable sex imbalance and, further, that this sex imbalance was not due to the language restrictions of English. For 19 of the 27 batteries analyzed, males are referred to more than twice as often as females. For only one battery, females were referred to more often than males. Test constructors, editors, and publishers are invited to make use of the index to measure sex imbalance in new, as well as already published testing materials. In this way, the undesirable reinforcement of discriminating sex-role stereotyping can be curtailed, and the preponderance of male noun and pronoun references can be eliminated.
Passive loss of hydrogen sulfide in biological experiments.

Abstract Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a volatile gas of considerable interest as a physiologically relevant signaling molecule, but this volatility has typically been overlooked in the context of biological experiments. We examined volatility of 10 and 100 μM H2S (Na2S·9H2O) in real time with polarographic electrodes in three commonly employed experimental apparatuses: 24-well tissue culture plates (WP), muscle myograph baths (MB), and the Langendorff perfused heart apparatus (LPH). H2S loss from all apparatuses was rapid and exponential, with half-times (t1/2) of 5 min (WP), less than 4 min (MB), and less than 0.5 min (LPH). The t1/2 for H2S loss from MB bubbled with 100% oxygen was slightly longer than that for MB bubbled with 100% nitrogen; both were significantly shorter than stirred but unbubbled MB (>9 min). Therefore, even without tissue, H2S rapidly disappears from buffer under a variety of experimental conditions, and this is due to volatilization, not oxidation. The inability to maintain H2S concentration, even briefly, questions the accuracy of dose–response studies and the relevance of long-term (>10 min) exposure to a single treatment of H2S. These results also help to explain the discrepancy between low H2S concentrations in blood and tissues versus high concentrations of exogenous H2S required to produce physiological responses.
Flow and heat transfer in simulated re-entry vehicle tile gaps

Experiments were performed to investigate the flow patterns and convective heat transfer characteristics in intersecting tile gaps on space vehicles. The flow in a water channel simulates the external flow, and gaps with a depth to width ratio of 20 are mounted as recesses in the bottom wall. A "parallel" gap is installed at 18 deg to the flow direction and ends in a perpendicular gap normal to the flow direction. Gap flow patterns and temperature distributions are obtained as functions of the gap-width-based Reynolds number, the relative height between tiles at the T intersection, and the temperature difference between gap and external flows, using dye entrainment, liquid crystals, and a grid of surface thermocouples. External flow penetration into the perpendicular gap was limited to roughly two gap widths while greater entrainment occurred in the parallel gap. The 18-deg angle of the parallel gap led to asymmetries about the centerline in the perpendicular gap flow patterns and convection coefficients. Natural convection was the predominant mode of heat transfer in the bulk of the perpendicular gap. The Reynolds number and relative tile-height differences had the strongest influence on heat transfer and affected both the magnitude and the asymmetry of the temperature and flowfields.
Rethinking Automatic Chord Recognition with Convolutional Neural Networks

Despite early success in automatic chord recognition, recent efforts are yielding diminishing returns while basically iterating over the same fundamental approach. Here, we abandon typical conventions and adopt a different perspective of the problem, where several seconds of pitch spectra are classified directly by a convolutional neural network. Using labeled data to train the system in a supervised manner, we achieve state of the art performance through this initial effort in an otherwise unexplored area. Subsequent error analysis provides insight into potential areas of improvement, and this approach to chord recognition shows promise for future harmonic analysis systems.
The turnover of disaccharidases and brush border proteins in rat intestine

Abstract 1. 1. The incorporation and turnover of amino acids into different protein fractions of the small intestinal mucosa of rats has been measured after the intravenous injection of leucine or mixed amino acids. 2. 2. The incorporation into the brush border fractions was delayed compared with other fractions and was compartible with the time required for the transfer of newly formed proteins from within the epithelial cell to the brush borders. 3. 3. After maximal labeling the half-life of the brush border was shorter (18 h) than the homogenate (31 h) or other subcellular fractions. 4. 4. The separated and purified disaccharides had an even faster turnover rate (11.5 h) than whole brush borders. Since migration per se cannot account for the turnover of disaccaharidases, control of disaccharidase turnover may not depend on cell formation in the intestinal crypts. It is suggested that control may be located at the villus level of the intestinal cells. 5. 5. Although the adult rat is known to have lower lactase activity than the neonatal animal, no differences in turnover between the disaccharidases were found to account for this reduced activity.
Modeling Urban Growth Effects on Surface Runoff with the Integration of Remote Sensing and GIS

A methodology is developed to relate urban growth studies to distributed hydrological modeling using an integrated approach of remote sensing and GIS. This linkage is possible because both studies share land-use and land- cover data. Landsat Thematic Mapper data are utilized to de- tect urban land-cover changes. GIS analyses are then con- ducted to examine the changing spatial patterns of urban growth. The integration of remote sensing and GIS is applied to automate the estimation of surface runoff based on the Soil Conservation Service model. Impacts of urban growth on sur- face runoff and the rainfall-runoff relationship are examined by linking the two modeling results with spatial analysis tech- niques. This methodology is applied to the Zhujiang Delta of southern China, where dramatic urban growth has occurred over the past two decades, and the rampant urban growth has created severe problems in water resources manage- ment. The results revealed a notably uneven spatial pattern of urban growth and an increase of 8.10 mm in annual runoff depth during the 1989 -1997 period. An area that experienced more urban growth had a greater potential for increasing an- nual surface runoff. Highly urbanized areas were more prone to flooding. Urbanization lowered potential maximum storage, and thus increased runoff coefficient values.
Quantitative analysis of glycerophospholipids by LC–MS: Acquisition, data handling, and interpretation

As technology expands what it is possible to accurately measure, so too the challenges faced by modern mass spectrometry applications expand. A high level of accuracy in lipid quantitation across thousands of chemical species simultaneously is demanded. While relative changes in lipid amounts with varying conditions may provide initial insights or point to novel targets, there are many questions that require determination of lipid analyte absolute quantitation. Glycerophospholipids present a significant challenge in this regard, given the headgroup diversity, large number of possible acyl chain combinations, and vast range of ionization efficiency of species. Lipidomic output is being used more often not just for profiling of the masses of species, but also for highly-targeted flux-based measurements which put additional burdens on the quantitation pipeline. These first two challenges bring into sharp focus the need for a robust lipidomics workflow including deisotoping, differentiation from background noise, use of multiple internal standards per lipid class, and the use of a scriptable environment in order to create maximum user flexibility and maintain metadata on the parameters of the data analysis as it occurs. As lipidomics technology develops and delivers more output on a larger number of analytes, so must the sophistication of statistical post-processing also continue to advance. High-dimensional data analysis methods involving clustering, lipid pathway analysis, and false discovery rate limitation are becoming standard practices in a maturing field.
The Correlation between Relatives in a Random Mating Population

The variance of a characteristic in a random mating diploid population is partitioned into two components, the genotypic variance and the environmental variance. The genotypic variance is then separated into components which can be attributed to the additively genetic effects, the dominance deviations and the epistatic effects. The total epistatic variance is subdivided into components arising from interactions among sets of $2,3...,n$ loci and the interaction variance from a particular number of loci is shown to be composed of portions attributable in a certain sense to the interaction of additive and/or dominance effects of genes. For example, the epistatic variance arising from two loci consists of three distinct parts: additive-by-additive, additive-by-dominance and dominance-by-dominance variance. It is then shown that the covariances, and hence the correlations, between relatives which are not inbred, can be expressed in terms of the components of genotypic variance. The basic result is that if $\sigma \_{X}^{2}$ is a component of the genotypic variance, where X contains r additive and s dominance effects, the covariance between two relatives with respect to $\sigma \_{X}^{2}$ is equal to $[(\frac{1}{2})(\phi +\phi ^{1})]^{r}[\phi \phi ^{1}]^{s}$, where $\phi $ $\text{and}$ $\phi ^{1}$ are easily calculated from the pedigree of the relatives.
Trigeminal neuralgia secondary to tumor with normal exam, responsive to carbamazepine

Trigeminal neuralgia is most commonly idiopathic, although it can be associated with multiple sclerosis. Tumors are rare causes of trigeminal neuralgia. A case is presented of trigeminal neuralgia with normal neurological examination and responsive to carbamazepine, secondary to a cerebellopontine angle meningioma. Literature relative to neoplastic etiologies of trigeminal neuralgia is reviewed. The role of electrodiagnostic testing in the evaluation of trigeminal neuralgia is considered. A normal neurological examination and responsiveness to carbamazepine do not exclude tumor as an etiology of trigeminal neuralgia.
The extent of Kierkegaard's skepticism

L'A. s'interroge sur la position sceptique de Kierkegaard quant aux pouvoirs de la connaissance humaine, en particulier pour la connaissance des realites hors du moi. L'A. tente de cerner sa pensee a travers ses differents pseudonymes (Johannes Climacus, Anti-Climacus)
Equidistribution schemes, poisson generators, and adaptive grids

Equidistribution of a weight function over a mesh is the main concept employed in the recent development of adaptive grid schemes. This idea is reviewed in this paper, and several examples of grids produced using equidistribution are presented. The shortcomings of this approach are identified, and its usefulness is evaluated. Next, the traditional Poisson grid generators are written as nonlinear equidistribution schemes. In this form, the relationship between the numerical solution of a physical problem, the source terms in the grid generation equations, and the weight functions in equidistribution schemes are identified. Examples are given illustrating the case of providing a useful adaptive grid with this approach.
Behavioral and physiological responses of Eared Grebes ( Podiceps nigricollis ) to variations in brine shrimp ( Artemia franciscana ) densities

Abstract Eared Grebes (Podiceps nigricollis) use the Great Salt Lake (GSL) primarily as a fall staging area. They feed on brine shrimp (Artemia franciscana) to build up energy reserves to complete their southward migration. Whereas it has been speculated that timing of grebe departure from the GSL is due to declining shrimp density, this hypothesis has not been tested. We monitored grebe weight, behavior, and departure dates to test this hypothesis and to determine the effects of declining shrimp densities on Eared Grebes during 1999, 2000, and 2001 when there were different shrimp densities. Despite differences in shrimp densities, grebes left the GSL about the same time each year. Juvenile and subadult mass was significantly lighter (P 0.05) in dive or surface duration between 1999 and 2000, there were differences in the perc...
Solution concentration prediction for pharmaceutical crystallization processes using robust chemometrics and ATR FTIR spectroscopy

In the pharmaceutical industry, a vast number of compounds are produced by solution crystallization, making the design and development of such processes of critical importance. The kinetics of crystal growth and nucleation, the fundamental mechanisms of a solution crystallization process, are strongly dependent on supersaturation (the difference between solution concentration and the saturation concentration). The present study uses attenuated total reflection (ATR) Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, coupled with robust chemometric techniques, for the on-line measurement of solution concentration of two pharmaceutical compounds in multicomponent systems in the presence of impurities and over a wide range of temperature. To our best knowledge, this is the first time that ATR FTIR spectroscopy has been applied to a multicomponent pharmaceutical system. The resulting models show high accuracy in predicting the solution concentration and are applied successfully in measuring the solubility for th...
Inferring exposure ages and erosion rates from cosmogenic nuclides: A probabilistic formulation

Cosmogenic nuclides have become an important tool in geomorphology; the concentration of such nuclides in minerals in an eroding surface is directly related to the exposure time and the erosion rate. In principle, measurement of the two nuclides 10Be and 26Al allows for the determination of both the erosion rate and the exposure age. In practice, due to a variety of factors such as the similar lifetimes of the two nuclides and the limits on measurement precision, this determination is often not possible. We propose a new approach to this problem, showing how to construct a joint probability distribution for the age and erosion rate by using the concentration of one (or two) nuclides measured at the surface. We explain the Bayesian approach to this problem; the construction of the prior is a crucial element of this Bayesian method, and we devote particular attention to this issue. By analyzing previously published data, we show how this method improves on the standard approach of computing a “model age” and “model erosion rate.”
Primary cortical representation of sounds by the coordination of action-potential timing

Cortical population coding could in principle rely on either the mean rate of neuronal action potentials, or the relative timing of action potentials, or both. When a single sensory stimulus drives many neurons to fire at elevated rates, the spikes of these neurons become tightly synchronized, which could be involved in 'binding' together individual firing-rate feature representations into a unified object percept. Here we demonstrate that the relative timing of cortical action potentials can signal stimulus features themselves, a function even more basic than feature grouping. Populations of neurons in the primary auditory cortex can coordinate the relative timing of their action potentials such that spikes occur closer together in time during continuous stimuli. In this way cortical neurons can signal stimuli even when their firing rates do not change. Population coding based on relative spike timing can systemically signal stimulus features, it is topographically mapped, and it follows the stimulus time course even where mean firing rate does not.
The biochemical relationship between trehalase and trehalose during growth and differentiation in the cellular slime mold, Dictyostelium discoideum.

Abstract 1. 1. The hydrolytic enzyme trehalase (trehalose i -glucohydrolase, EC 3.2.1.28) was studied during the life cycle of the cellular slime mold Dictyostelium discoideum. The enzyme is found at the amoebae stage but at aggregation it is preferentially released and can be recovered in the external medium. 2. 2. Once trehalase is released, the cells are capable of synthesizing the enzyme de novo only upon feeding Escherichia coli. 3. 3. Aggregation per se is not necessary for this release but conditions suitable for aggregation must be satisfied. 4. 4. Upon spore germination the enzyme reappears and the non-reducing disacharide, trehalose, is converted to glucose. Glucose gradually disappears from amoebae so that by aggregation both glucose and trehalose are detected in very small quantities. It is suggested that the breakdown of trehalose is necessary for spore germination.
EXPRESSION OF SYNAPTOBREVIN II, CELLUBREVIN AND SYNTAXIN BUT NOT SNAP-25 IN CULTURED ASTROCYTES

Astrocytes, a sub-type of glial cell in the central nervous system, can release the excitatory transmitters glutamate and aspartate in response to elevated levels of internal calcium. To investigate potential release mechanisms that may be present in these cells we have determined whether protein components of the neuronal secretory apparatus are expressed in astrocytes. Western blots, immunocytochemistry and RT PCR demonstrate that astrocytes express cellubrevin, synaptobrevin II and syntaxin, proteins known to form a macromolecular fusion complex. However, SNAP-25 which is another neuronal protein of the fusion complex, was not detected. Astrocyte cellubrevin and synaptobrevin II were also shown to be sensitive to the proteolytic activity of tetanus toxin. Together these data indicate that astrocytes express some proteins that are known to form a fusion complex indicating that regulated exocytosis might mediate calcium-regulated transmitter release from these cells.
The Changing Role of the Chinese Intellectual: an Introductory Note

The rapidly mounting Occidental pressure that China felt after 1800, and her evident need of new devices to meet it, faced the Chinese intellectual with hard decisions. His reactions become more understandable if we consider them in the context of his history – a context of which he was particularly aware, since his training and his approach to political problems were strongly historical. His position had not always been as secure as it seemed ostensibly in 1800; his outlook and even his identity had undergone several transformations before he arrived at the Confucian orthodoxy of the Manchu period. Two centuries after Confucius, the dominant thinkers were power-oriented Legalists, eclipsed by the Confucians only after permanently discrediting themselves through their brutally oppressive methods of unifying government and thought. After the 2nd century, Confucian ardor declined; intellectual leadership (and an important share of political influence) had passed to essentially anti-political Taoists and anti-worldly Buddhists. The Confucianists of the 10th and 11th centuries established their intellectual primacy and unchallenged political leadership only through an intense ideological struggle with these rivals.
Electrochemical studies of metal ion inhibition of polyacrylamide gel immobilized glucose oxidase

Abstract Metal ion inhibitions of polyacrylamide gel immobilized glucose oxidase were investigated. Both Hg2+ and Ag+ ions were the subjects of this study, in the oxidation of β-D-glucose catalyzed by immobilized glucose oxidase. Electric potential measurement was used as a means to determine the inhibition effect. Experimental results show that the inhibition effects of Hg2+ and Ag+ ions on immobilized glucose oxidase were similar to those observed in free enzyme system. Reversibility of the immobilized enzyme matrix for metal ion inhibition study is reasonably good for a period of 48 hours. The detection level of the metal ions presented in the medium by this electrochemical method is, however, limited.
Value analysis of location-enabled radio-frequency identification information on delivery chain performance

Abstract A shipping yard of an automotive assembly plant is one of the key business processes as well as a starting point of outbound logistics, which holds finished vehicles temporarily until their shipment. The shipping yard involves various dynamically changing events and operations associated with vehicle movement, deployment, and shipment. Location-enabled radio-frequency identification tracking of vehicles can significantly improve the performance of delivery operations by facilitating better decision making. This paper analyzes the value of wireless location information for logistic operations during vehicle deployment and load makeup planning (DLMP) using a comprehensive simulation framework that simulates real operations of the yard.
Knee buckling: prevalence, risk factors, and associated limitations in function.

BACKGROUND: Knee buckling is common in persons with advanced knee osteoarthritis and after orthopedic procedures. Its prevalence in the community is unknown. OBJECTIVE: To examine the prevalence of knee buckling in the community, its associated risk factors, and its relation to functional limitation. DESIGN: Cross-sectional, population-based study. SETTING: The Framingham Osteoarthritis Study. PARTICIPANTS: 2351 men and women age 36 to 94 years (median, 63.5 years). MEASUREMENTS: Participants were asked whether they had experienced knee buckling or "giving way" and whether it led to falling. They were also asked about knee pain and limitations in function by using the Short Form-12 and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index, had isometric tests of quadriceps strength, and underwent weight-bearing radiography and magnetic resonance imaging of the knee. Radiographs were scored for osteoarthritis by using the Kellgren-Lawrence scale, and magnetic resonance images were read for anterior cruciate ligament tears. The relationship of buckling to functional limitation was examined by using logistic regression that adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, and knee pain severity. RESULTS: Two hundred seventy-eight participants (11.8%) experienced at least 1 episode of knee buckling within the past 3 months; of these persons, 217 (78.1%) experienced more than 1 episode and 35 (12.6%) fell during an episode. Buckling was independently associated with the presence of knee pain and with quadriceps weakness. Over half of those with buckling had no osteoarthritis on radiography. Persons with knee buckling had worse physical function than those without buckling, even after adjustment for severity of knee pain and weakness. For example, 46.9% of participants with buckling and 21.7% of those without buckling reported limitations in their work (adjusted odds ratio, 2.0 [95% CI, 1.5 to 2.7]). LIMITATION: Causal inferences are limited because of the study's cross-sectional design. CONCLUSION: In adults, knee buckling is common and is associated with functional loss. (Less)
Synthesis of mixed-metal carbonates by grinding

Abstract Improved grinding methods have reduced the time for dolomite formation from calcite and magnesite by a factor of 4 compared to the literature. This approach to the synthesis of Ca/Mg carbonates has been extended to huntite (Mg/Ca=3) and the use of aragonite and hydromagnesite as reagents. In addition, grinding of the corresponding chloride or sulfate salts with sodium carbonate yields dolomite in the shortest time and with the most crystallinity. The ordered carbonates with Ba/Mg=1 (norsethite) and Pb/Mg=1 form rapidly by grinding appropriate salt mixtures. Mixed-metal carbonates containing transition metals could also be formed by grinding. Carbonates formed with cations larger than calcium have the aragonite structure. Locally high pressure and temperature generated by grinding are not considered to be the key to this broadly applicable synthesis method. The locally high solubility of the components in thin water films at the grinding surface could account for the rapid reaction rates observed.
Excessive gastric retention by vagotomized rats and rabbits given a solid diet

Rats and rabbits were subjected to bilateral subdiaphragmatic vagotomy or laparotomy (sham vagotomy) and maintained on a diet of solid food. Measurement of stomach size was done following fasting for 0, 4, 8, or 12 h in rats or 0, 12, or 24 h in rabbits. Comparison of data from vagotomized and laparotomized animals that underwent an electrophysiological verification procedure indicated that the stomachs of vagotomized animals declined only slightly in size across the full range of fasting intervals, whereas the stomachs of fasted laparotomized animals decreased to a minimum size within 0–4 h in rats and 12–24 h in rabbits. This effect of vagal destruction on gastric function provides a partial explanation for changes in the feeding pattern observed subsequent to vagotomy. In addition, measurement of stomach size provides a reliable means of verifying the completeness of vagal damage produced by a vagotomy procedure.
Computer generation of high-energy x-ray dose distributions

A computer program for the generation of high-energy x-ray dose distributions has been developed. The program takes account of the fact that the x-ray beam profile, as affected by penumbra, wedges, beam blocks, or flattening filters, is one of the prime determinants of the dose distribution. Doses from primary and scattered radiation are calculated separately by using published tissue-air ratio (TAR) and scatter-air ratio (SAR) data. The dose from scattered radiation is determined by dividing the x-ray field into a series of scatter strips and summing the contribution from each. Wedges or beam blocks are taken into account simply by entering their actual coordinates and linear attenuation coefficients. The program may be used to design wedges, beam blocks, or flattening filters prior to fabrication. Finally, complete libraries of dose distributions for 60Co, 2-, 4-, and 6-MV x rays have been generated.
Golf-related Ocular Injuries

Purpose To examine patient outcomes from golf-related ocular injuries. Methods Retrospective case review of patients treated at the University of Michigan during the six-year period from November 1989 to October 1995. Results Of nine injuries treated in the six-year period, six of the patients with ocular injuries from golfing required enucleation. Seven of the injuries were from golf balls, and the remaining two were injuries from golf clubs. Conclusion Although unpredictable and difficult to avoid, proper golf etiquette and safety may diminish the incidence of golf-related ocular injuries.
Scheme for Measuring Queueing Delay of a Router Using Probe-Gap Model: The Single-Hop Case

In this letter, we propose a probe-gap scheme to measure queueing delay of a router in a single-hop path. The proposed scheme is based on estimating the change of an intra-probe gap between a pair of probing packets after they traverse the router under test. The proposed scheme can be applied to online routers and is sensitive to small queueing delays. Our simulation results show that this scheme consistently achieves high measurement accuracy under different levels of queueing delays.
Percutaneous Mitral Valve Repair for Mitral Regurgitation

Mitral regurgitation (MR) associated with, ischemic, and degenerative (prolapse) disease, contributes to left ventricular (LV) dysfunction due to remodeling, and LV dilation, resulting in worsening of MR. Mitral valve (MV) surgical repair has provided improvement in survival, LV function and symptoms, especially when performed early. Surgical repair is complex, due to diverse etiologies and has significant complications. The Society for Thoracic Surgery database shows that operative mortality for a 1st repair is 2% and for re-do repair is 4 times that. Cardiopulmonary bypass and cardiac arrest are required. The attendant morbidity prolongs hospitalization and recovery. Alfieri simplified mitral repair using an edge-to-edge technique which subsequently has been shown to be effective for multiple etiologies of MR. The MV leaflers are typically brought together by a central suture producing a double orifice MV without stenosis. Umana reported that MR decreased from grade 3.6 +/−0.5 to0.8 +/−0.4 (P < 0.0001)and LV ejection fraction increased from 33 +/−13% to 45 +/−11%(P = 0.0156). In 121 patients, Maisano reported freedom from re-operation of 95 +/−4.8% with up to 6 year follow-up. Oz developed a MV “grasper” that is directly placed via a left ventriculotomy and coapts both leaflets which are then fastened by a graduated spiral screw. An in-vitro model using explanted human valves showed significant reduction in MR and in canine studies, animals followed by serial echo had persistent MV coaptation. At 12 weeks the device was endothelialized. These promising results have paved the way for a percutaneous or minimally invasive off pump mitral repair. Evalve has developed catheter-based technology, which, by apposing the edges of a regurgitant MV, results in edge-to-edge repair. Release of the device is done after echo and fluoroscopic evaluation under normal loading conditions. If the desired effect is not produced the device can be repositioned or retrieved. Animal studies show excellent healing, with incorporation of the device into the leaflets at 6–10 weeks with persistent coaptation. Another percutaneous approach has been to utilize the proximity of the coronary sinus (CS) to the mitral annulus (MA). Placement of a self-compressing device in the CS along the region of the posterior MA has, in canine models, reduced MR and addresses the issues of MA dilation and its contribution to MR. Ongoing studies are underway for both techniques. (J Interven Cardiol 2003;16:93–96)
Characterization of carbon molecular sieves using methane and carbon dioxide as adsorptive probes

Nitrogen adsorption at 77 K is the current standard means for pore size determination of adsorbent materials. However, nitrogen adsorption reaches limitations when dealing with materials such as molecular sieving carbon with a high degree of ultramicroporosity. In this investigation, methane and carbon dioxide adsorption is explored as a possible alternative to the standard nitrogen probe. Methane and carbon dioxide adsorption equilibria and kinetics are measured in a commercially derived carbon molecular sieve over a range of temperatures. The pore size distribution is determined from the adsorption equilibrium, and the kinetics of adsorption is shown to be Fickian for carbon dioxide and non-Fickian for methane. The non-Fickian response is attributed to transport resistance at the pore mouth experienced by the methane molecules but not by the carbon dioxide molecules. Additionally, the change in the rate of adsorption with loading is characterized by the Darken relation in the case of carbon dioxide diffusion but is greater than that predicted by the Darken relation for methane transport. Furthermore, the proposition of inkbottle-shaped micropores in molecular sieving carbon is supported by the determination of the activation energy for the transport of methane and subsequent sizing of the pore-mouth barrier by molecular potential calculations.
Three-dimensional reconstruction from projections with incomplete and noisy data by object estimation

An estimation approach to three-dimensional reconstruction from parallel ray projections, with incomplete and very noisy data, is described. Using a stochastic dynamic model for an object of interest in a probed domain of known background density, the reconstruction problem is reformulated as a n onlinear state estimation problem. An approximate minimum mean square error globally optimal algorithm for the solution of this problem is presented. The algorithm, which is recursive in a hybrid frequency-space domain, operates directly on the Fourier transformed projection data, eliminating altogether the attempt to invert the projection integral equation. The simulation example considered in this paper demonstrates that good object estimates may be obtained with as few as five views in a limited sector of 90° and at a signal-to-noise ratio as low as 0 dB.
Rotenone inhibition of spindle microtubule assembly in mammalian cells

Abstract Rotenone, a potent inhibitor of mitochondrial respiration is also an effective antimitotic agent. The addition of either rotenone or Colcemid to exponentially growing Chinese hamster ovary cells resulted in a dramatic increase in mitotic index after 90 min. When the cultures were washed free of the drugs, mitosis was completed and the cells progressed into G 1 at approximately the same rate. Further similarity of rotenone-arrested cells to Colcemid-induced mitotic inhibition was apparent at the ultrastructural level. Mitotic cells treated by either drug contained monopolar spindles with chromosomes grouped around centriole pairs near the cell center. Occasional microtubules were seen near the kinetochore and centrioles. These observations, along with the fact that rotenone inhibited the binding of 3H-colchicine to isolated bovine brain tubulin, suggested that rotenone inhibited mitosis by binding directly to tubulin to prevent microtubule assembly.
A sacrificial method for fabricating microchannel accelerated by galvanic corrosion

A metal sacrificial method has been investigated for creation of microchannels by galvanic corrosion in a metal multilayer. To achieve the fastest sacrificial metal combination, different metals and the corresponding etchants are chosen. Channels from 50 μm to 1 μm wide, 0.2 μm high, and 1500 μm long, as well as the channel array is fabricated, using Cr/Cu galvanic metal couple as sacrificial material. The relationship between the etching front vs. the etching time, and the relationship of the etch rate vs. channel width is measured and compared with the etching performance of the single metal. The measurement shows there is approximately 10 times faster etching in the galvanic coupled metals than that in the single metal. SEM images of the channels and channel array made by this method are presented. This method is compatible with the conventional VLSI process, and has the potential for fabricating microchannels with submicron or even nanometer cross section.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Social context affects how rhesus monkeys explore their environment

This study reports on social modulation of exploratory behavior and response to novelty by members of a captive rhesus monkey colony. The group was trained to split in half, with one subgroup composed of dominant members only, the other of subordinates. The animals were then presented the same initially novel stimuli (i.e., sand-filled metal boxes containing hidden food items) in two social contexts differing in hierarchical composition. In a combined context, all group members (i.e., both subgroups together) were simultaneously presented the stimuli. In a split context, only members of the top or bottom half of the group (i.e., each subgroup in turn) was independently presented the stimuli. Subordinates responded similarly to dominant animals in the combined context but differently in the split context, where they were far more hesitant. Rank-related differences were evident in the way animals used their home compound and in their approach and responsiveness toward the stimuli. These findings show that social context influences how animals explore novel situations, possibly reflecting different social roles or status effects on the perception of social structure. Also, despite the complexity of primate social relationships, the separation technique produced no permanent or adverse effects on the social integrity of the group. This study shows that manipulating the social environment through separation training can be a powerful tool for assessing contextual influences on behavior.
Group Therapy for Patients with Chronic Trauma–Related Stress Disorders

(2005). Group Therapy for Patients with Chronic Trauma–Related Stress Disorders. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy: Vol. 55, Special Issue: Group Therapist Countertransference to Trauma and Traumatogenic Situations, pp. 161-165.
Cartilage mechanics in the guinea pig model of osteoarthritis studied with an osmotic loading method

Abstract Objective : To determine the material properties of articular cartilage in the Hartley guinea pig model of spontaneous osteoarthritis. Methods : Cartilage-bone samples from the medial femoral condyle and tibial plateau of 12 month-old guinea pig knees were subjected to osmotic loading. Site-matched swelling strains and fixed charge density values were used in a triphasic theoretical model for cartilage swelling to determine the modulus of the cartilage solid matrix. The degree of cartilage degeneration was assessed in adjacent tissue sections using a semi-quantitative histological grading scheme. Results : Decreased values for both moduli and surface zone fixed charge density were associated with increasing grades of cartilage degeneration. Decreases in moduli reflect damage to the collagen matrix, which give rise to greater swelling strains. Conclusion : Histological evidence of cartilage degeneration was associated with impaired cartilage mechanics in the aging Hartley guinea pig.
THE IMPACT OF BASIC RESEARCH IN THE SOCIAL SCIENCES: THE CASE OF EDUCATION

Recent expert evaluations of the condition and funding of educational research in the USA assume that basic research in the social sciences is a crucial factor in increasing our understanding and ultimately improving the practice of education (see, for example, the 1977 report1 of the National Academy of Sciences' Committee on Fundamental Research Relevant to Education). Past tests of this assumption, however, have generally relied upon argument by example or anecdote. In the present study, we analyze citation patterns in the education literature to test the corollary proposition that basic research in the social sciences has had a substantial impact on the literature in education. Empirical data collected on citation patterns in the education literature are found to be largely consistent with this proposition.
Noise analysis in intensity-weighted region-of-interest imaging for cone-beam CT

We have previously introduced an intensity-weighted region-of-interest (IWROI) technique for image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT), where the outer ROI receives lower exposure than the inner ROI by use of intensity weighting (IW-) filters during the scan. Image noise level, as a result, in the outer ROI will be higher than that in the inner ROI after reconstruction. CBCT images are to be registered to planning CT images and there exist a number of imageregistration algorithms, some of which are relatively more robust against image noise. The IW-filters should be designed so that the outer ROI images have noise levels slightly less than the tolerance of the registiration algorithm resulting in maximum reduction to patient exposure. Therefore, a proper study can guide the filter design based on noise characteristics of the image reconstruction. As a part of the study, we investigated the noise propagation from the projections to the reconstructed image in this work. Also, we obtained the experimental noise characteristics of projections for varying exposure, simulated a pelvis imaging using the NCAT phantom, and performed an image registration of the reconstructed image to the phantom image.
Molecular mechanisms of TNF-α-induced apoptosis in aging human T cell subsets

TNF-alpha, a pro-inflammatory cytokine, exerts its biological activity by signaling via its two receptors, TNFR-1 and TNFR-2 and by activating NF-kappaB. NF-kappaB is essential for survival of many cell types; however, TNF-alpha also induces cell death. During human aging TNF-alpha production and TNF-alpha-induced apoptosis are increased. In this brief review, we will discuss the TNF-alpha-mediated signaling and various molecular mechanisms underlying increased apoptosis in T cell subsets in aged humans with a special reference to alterations in transcription factor NF-kappaB and Fas-associated death domain (FADD).
Probability estimation via smoothing in sparse contingency tables with ordered categories

Abstract Probability estimation in sparse two-dimensional contingency tables with ordered categories is examined. Several smoothing procedures are compared to analysis of the unsmoothed table. It is shown that probability estimates obtained via maximum penalized likelihood smoothing are consistent under a sparse asymptotic framework if the underlying probability matrix is smooth, and are more accurate than kernel-based and other smoothing techniques. In fact, computer simulations indicate that smoothing based on a product kernel is less effective than no smoothing at all. An example is given to illustrate the smoothing technique. Possible extensions to model building and higher dimensional tables are discussed.
Pattern Formation by Bacteria-Driven Flow

Some marine bacterial species form mucosal layers, called veils, on sulfidic marine sediment. The bacteria attached to this veil actively swim and exert force on the surrounding fluid. The bacteria can break free of the veil and swim, chemotacting back to the veil. Over time the veil forms holes arranged in a hexagonal pattern. Motivated by this system, we present a simplified model to describe pattern formation induced by force-generating bodies embedded in a layer surrounded by fluid. When the bacteria break free of the layer, they are advected by the flow and diffuse. Competition between the fluid flow generated by the embedded bacteria and diffusion of the swimmers leads to a novel instability that drives bacterial aggregation. Analytic and numeric analysis of this system correctly defines the length scale and developmental timescale for the biological system. Similar flow dynamics may also play a role in other biological systems such as encrusting bryozoan colonies.
The Association Between Alcohol Use and Engagement in Casual Sexual Relationships and Experiences: A Meta-Analytic Review of Non-Experimental Studies

The present study provides a meta-analytic review of the association between alcohol use and engagement in casual sexual relationships and experiences (CSREs). Specifically, the meta-analysis focused on non-experimental studies of community and college samples. Results from the meta-analysis, which included 29 relevant studies (34 effect sizes), indicated that alcohol use was significantly associated with engaging in CSREs, r = .34, 95 % CI [.29–.38], but that this link showed considerable variability. Subsequent analyses examined moderators that may explain this heterogeneity. Results revealed that age and method of assessment significantly moderated the effect of alcohol use on CSRE engagement such that the association was greater for emerging adults (18–24 year olds) than older adults and online assessments produced greater effect sizes than paper-and-pencil assessments. These results have implications for future research and intervention development. In particular, this meta-analysis emphasizes the need for studies that utilize consistent measurements of CSRE engagement, include diverse methodology, and expand upon sampling.
Synthesis and antitumor activity of platinum complexes of protonated diamines

Abstract Complexes of the formula cis-[Pt(H N + ∼N)(L)Cl2], where (H N + ∼N) are the protonated diamines including 3-aminoquinuclidine, N-aminopiperidine, piperazine, N-methylpiperazine, 1,1,4-trimethylpiperazine, and N-methyl-1,4-diazabicyclo [2,2,2] octane (N-methyl-dabco) and L = SCN−, NO2−, Br−, and F−, were synthesized from the protonated diamine complexes, [Pt(H N + ∼N)Cl3]. The antitumor activities of the complexes were evaluated in vitro against L1210 murine leukemia cells, and ID50 values for the L-substituted complexes were compared to values of the parent complexes. In each case it was found that replacement of a chloride ion by SCN−, NO2−, Br−, or F−, either reduced or completely eliminated antitumor activity. This effect is explained in terms of the trans-directing ability of the ligand, L, compared to chloride. The NO2-substituted complex of 3- aminoquinuclidine was tested in vivo and found to exhibit little or no antitumor activity.
The effect of ice pressure on marginal ice zone dynamics

To evaluate the role of compressive ice pressure in marginal ice zone dynamics, a cavitating fluid model with periodic boundaries is developed and subjected to a fixed wind field and both cyclonic and anticyclonic wind vortices. In this model, ice interaction is approximated by assuming that sea ice has no resistance to divergence or shear, but has some compressive strength which is taken to be a linear function of compactness. Time scales of ice pressure effects are examined and their relevance to ocean eddies is discussed. >
The 1904–05 Welsh Revival: Modernization, Technologies, and Techniques of the Self

Surveying the short history of pentecostalism in 1925, Frank Bartelman—a consummate “insider historian”—reckoned that although the Azusa Street revival had become “full grown” in Los Angeles, California, it was “rocked in the cradle of little Wales.” In pentecostal historiography much ink has been spilled connecting the causal dots of precedence. From whence did the movement come? Los Angeles? India? Topeka, Kansas? Historians of pentecostalism are cognizant of the 1904–05 Welsh revival; they readily acknowledged that it in some way influenced the Apostolic Faith Mission in Los Angeles. My goal here is not necessarily to argue one way or another but rather to resurrect from the dustbin of history a significant event that deserves its own due. This is a story, argues historian Rhodri Hayward, that “has been largely forgotten.”