cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
UE-to-Network Relay Discovery in ProSe-enabled LTE Networks

The UE-to-Network Relay functionality was introduced to Long Term Evolution (LTE) cellular networks by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) in Release 13. In this technology, User Equipment (UEs) acting as Relay UEs are used to extend network coverage to cell-edge and out-of-coverage Remote UEs. One important part of this functionality is direct discovery, which is used by the Remote UEs willing to reach the network to detect the Relay UEs in proximity that can provide the desired connectivity service. In this paper, we study this protocol considering both discovery models defined in the LTE standard, and we develop analytical models to characterize the average time a Remote UE takes to discover a Relay UE using each discovery model. We validate the analytical models using system level simulations and we study the sensitivity of the metrics to different parameters of the protocol and number of UEs involved in the UE-to-Network Relay discovery.
Prognostic value of cardiac biomarkers in COVID-19 infection.

Multiple Biomarkers have recently been shown to be elevated in COVID-19, a respiratory infection with multi-organ dysfunction; however, information regarding the prognostic value of cardiac biomarkers as it relates to disease severity and cardiac injury are inconsistent. The goal of this meta-analysis was to summarize the evidence regarding the prognostic relevance of cardiac biomarkers from data available in published reports. PubMed, Embase and Web of Science were searched from inception through April 2020 for studies comparing median values of cardiac biomarkers in critically ill versus non-critically ill COVID-19 patients, or patients who died versus those who survived. The weighted mean differences (WMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) between the groups were calculated for each study and combined using a random effects meta-analysis model. The odds ratio (OR) for mortality based on cardiac injury was combined from studies reporting it. Troponin levels were significantly higher in COVID-19 patients who died or were critically ill versus those who were alive or not critically ill (WMD 0.57, 95% CI 0.43–0.70, p < 0.001). Additionally, BNP levels were also significantly higher in patients who died or were critically ill (WMD 0.45, 95% CI − 0.21–0.69, p < 0.001). Cardiac injury was independently associated with significantly increased odds of mortality (OR 6.641, 95% CI 1.26–35.1, p = 0.03). A significant difference in levels of D-dimer was seen in those who died or were critically ill. CK levels were only significantly higher in those who died versus those who were alive (WMD 0.79, 95% CI 0.25–1.33, p = 0.004). Cardiac biomarkers add prognostic value to the determination of the severity of COVID-19 and can predict mortality.
Understanding Children's Problem-Solving Strategies in Solving Game-Based Logic Problems.

Problem solving is an essential skill for students to be successful in life and careers. Students need to use efficient strategies to solve problems effectively. In this basic interpretive qualitative study, we aimed to (a) explore children’s problem-solving strategies in a game-based tool (i.e., puzzles), and (b) investigate the troubleshooting strategies they employed while solving the puzzles. We recorded students’ puzzle-solving efforts, and using an observation analysis approach, noted important moments, patterns in puzzle-solving, troubleshooting methods, and other noteworthy events. Our analysis showed that while solving computer-based puzzles, students demonstrated the use of three approaches: varying-one-thing-at-a-time (VOTAT), building all-at-once or change-all (CA), and a mixed approach. CA was the approach used most often, followed by VOTAT, and then the mixed approach. Of the two troubleshooting approaches, starting the sequence over was the preferred method. Others opted to search for the faulty tile in the sequence. We discuss how these findings can inform practice and provide some insights as to the usefulness of the game-based tool, Lightbot.
Raced to death in 1920s Hawai'i: injustice and revenge in the Fukunaga case

Jonathan Okamura’s riveting account of Myles Yutaka Fukunaga’s 1928 kidnapping and murder of ten-year-old George Gill Jamieson takes you back to interwar Hawai'i, a pivotal moment in the territory’...
Relative Likelihood of Success in the Search for Primitive versus Intelligent Extraterrestrial Life

We estimate the relative likelihood of success in the searches for primitive versus intelligent life on other planets. Taking into account the larger search volume for detectable artificial electromagnetic signals, we conclude that both searches should be performed concurrently, albeit with significantly more funding dedicated to primitive life. Based on the current federal funding allocated to the search for biosignatures, our analysis suggests that the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI) may merit a federal funding level of at least $10 million per year, assuming that the average lifetime of technological species exceeds a millennium.
Form, function and phylogenetic relationships of mosquito immune peptides.

Insects represent one of the earth’s most successful groups of organisms, colonizing essentially every niche possible, with the exception of the oceans. One factor contributing to this success in exploiting such diverse ecological niches is their ability to defend themselves against harmful pathogens and parasites (1,2). Insects can mount an extremely effective response against invasion by prokaryotic and eukaryotic pathogens involving both cellular and humoral factors (3,4). These responses may include phagocytosis of bacteria, formation of nodules containing large aggregates of bacteria, the melanotic encapsulation of metazoan parasites (5,6) or the use of potent antimicrobial peptides (7,8).
Statistical properties of the surface-charging environment at geosynchronous orbit

[1] Based on 13 years of data from the Magnetospheric Plasma Analyzers on six Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) geosynchronous satellites, the statistical behavior of environmental conditions that cause strong surface charging on the satellites is examined. Analysis of the Magnetospheric Plasma Analyzers data reveals the electron energy range (~5–10 keV) and threshold flux (1.4×103 cm–2 s–1 sr–1 eV–1 at 8 keV) that are most closely associated with satellite surface charging. We also find that the average ambient electron temperature in the plasma sheet correlates with the observed magnitude of the surface potential on the LANL satellites. Analysis of the statistical occurrence rates of (1) the observed surface potential on the LANL satellites, (2) 8 keV electron fluxes above the threshold, and (3) elevated values of the average electron temperature all reveal that an enhanced surface charging probability exists (a) during higher values of Kp, (b) in the local time range from premidnight through dawn, (c) during equinox seasons, and (d) during the declining phase of the solar cycle. With the exception of the solar cycle dependence, these are the same statistical dependences found by Choi et al. (2011) in the satellite anomaly database they examined. The local time dependence of those anomalies is a particularly strong diagnostic of surface charging as a probable cause of a significant number of them.
The Identification of a Tryptophan Residue Essential to the Catalytic Activity of Bovine Pancreatic Deoxyribonuclease

Abstract Bovine pancreatic deoxyribonuclease contains 3 tryptophan residues per molecule of enzyme (mol wt 31,000). Two of these residues react with the chemical modifying reagents specific for tryptophan, N-bromosuccinimide (NBS) and 2-hydroxy-5-nitrobenzyl bromide (HNB). A 6-fold excess of NBS over DNase completely inactivates DNase and at 100% loss of activity, one tryptophan is oxidized to oxindole per DNase molecule. HNB also reacts with a single tryptophan residue in DNase to give a 20% to 30% loss of activity. HNB-modified DNase then can be inactivated with a 6-fold excess of NBS with the resulting oxidation of a single tryptophan residue. This indicates that there are two reactive tryptophans in DNase, one of which is essential for catalytic activity. NBS also reacts with tyrosine, histidine, and methionine, but amino acid analysis of NBS-inactivated DNase showed that no other amino acids except tryptophan were modified. The structure of the NBS-inactivated enzyme has not been grossly altered. Calcium protects one of the two disulfide bonds in native DNase from mercaptoethanol reduction and also protects one disulfide bond in the inactivated enzyme. Comparison of circular dichroism spectra of NBS-inactivated and native DNase shows little significant difference. However, calcium was found to induce an ultraviolet difference spectrum in DNase while the NBS-inactivated DNase showed no difference spectrum over a wide range of calcium concentration.
Chapter 35 Coordination Issues in Long-Run Growth

Abstract Economic growth depends not only on how people make decisions but also upon how their decisions are coordinated. Because of this, aggregate outcomes can diverge from individual intentions. I illustrate this with reference to the modern literature on economic growth, and also with reference to an older literature on the stability of full-employment equilibrium. Agent-based computational methods are ideally suited for studying the aspects of growth most affected by coordination issues.
Review: In patients with mild hypertension and no CV disease, BP-lowering drugs reduce stroke and mortality

Source Citation Sundstrom J, Arima H, Jackson R, et al; Blood Pressure Lowering Treatment Trialists' Collaboration. Effects of blood pressure reduction in mild hypertension: a systematic review and...
Rationale for a Multimodality Strategy to Enhance the Efficacy of Dendritic Cell-Based Cancer Immunotherapy.

Dendritic cells (DC), master antigen-presenting cells that orchestrate interactions between the adaptive and innate immune arms, are increasingly utilized in cancer immunotherapy. Despite remarkable progress in our understanding of DC immunobiology, as well as several encouraging clinical applications — such as DC-based sipuleucel-T for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer — clinically effective DC-based immunotherapy as monotherapy for a majority of tumors remains a distant goal. The complex interplay between diverse molecular and immune processes that govern resistance to DC-based vaccination compels a multimodality approach, encompassing a growing arsenal of antitumor agents which target these distinct processes and synergistically enhance DC function. These include antibody-based targeted molecular therapies, immune checkpoint inhibitors, therapies that inhibit immunosuppressive cellular elements, conventional cytotoxic modalities, and immune potentiating adjuvants. It is likely that in the emerging era of “precision” cancer therapeutics, tangible clinical benefits will only be realized with a multifaceted—and personalized—approach combining DC-based vaccination with adjunctive strategies.
C.A.T. Scan in severe facial cleft surgery

Summary We report two rare cases of median facial cleft with holoprosencephaly and the use of C.A.T. brain scan in one of them as a diagnostic aid in deciding whether surgical intervention is indicated.
AddressSanitizer: a fast address sanity checker

Memory access bugs, including buffer overflows and uses of freed heap memory, remain a serious problem for programming languages like C and C++. Many memory error detectors exist, but most of them are either slow or detect a limited set of bugs, or both. This paper presents AddressSanitizer, a new memory error detector. Our tool finds out-of-bounds accesses to heap, stack, and global objects, as well as use-after-free bugs. It employs a specialized memory allocator and code instrumentation that is simple enough to be implemented in any compiler, binary translation system, or even in hardware. AddressSanitizer achieves efficiency without sacrificing comprehensiveness. Its average slowdown is just 73% yet it accurately detects bugs at the point of occurrence. It has found over 300 previously unknown bugs in the Chromium browser and many bugs in other software.
Synchronization and cache coherence in computer design

Cache coherence and synchronization are two important issues that a computer designer must consider. These topics are typically considered individually and taught to students in computer design courses. The first goal of this paper is to show the role that cache coherence can play when implementing synchronization primitives. The second goal is to illustrate the importance of synchronization techniques as a part of cache coherence's overall function in computer design. Finally, the last goal is to demonstrate the limitations of both cache coherence and synchronization.
Performing gender in song games among Nicaraguan Miskitu children

Abstract This article brings together theories of performance and language-in-interaction to interpret the socialization and negotiation of gender and sexuality in children’s peer groups. The object of this study are song games played by multilingual, indigenous Miskitu children living on Corn Island, off the Caribbean coast of Nicaragua. Ethnographic research and micro-analyses of transcribed song game performances demonstrate that mobile aesthetic forms are both a communicative resource and a framework for the formation and re-formation of subjectivity in social discourse. Through the social “work” accomplished by “play,” Miskitu children contribute to an ongoing reshaping of the forms and meanings of gender and sexuality.
Some adaptive Monte Carlo methods for Bayesian inference

Monte Carlo methods, in particular Markov chain Monte Carlo methods, have become increasingly important as a tool for practical Bayesian inference in recent years. A wide range of algorithms is available, and choosing an algorithm that will work well on a specific problem is challenging. It is therefore important to explore the possibility of developing adaptive strategies that choose and adjust the algorithm to a particular context based on information obtained during sampling as well as information provided with the problem. This paper outlines some of the issues in developing adaptive methods and presents some preliminary results.
Optical absorption by rare-gas atoms in alkali-metal rare-gas alloys

Abstract We present results of a Cluster-Bethe Lattice Method calculation of the optical absorption due to rare-gasses in alkali-metal rare-gas alloys. A specific application to the Cs-Xe alloy reveals that the main features of the absorption for the whole concentration range can be understood in terms of a single-quasiparticle model. The effects of short-range order are investigated.
A case controlled comparison of open and laparoscopic splenectomy in children

Background: This case controlled study compares the efficacy, safety, and cost of laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) and open splenectomy (OS) for hematologic disorders in children. Methods: The records of 82 consecutive children and adolescents undergoing splenectomy for hematologic disorders between August 1994 and September 1997 were reviewed retrospectively. Results: Fifty patients underwent LS by a lateral approach and 32 underwent OS through a left subcostal incision. Mean age was 7.76 years for LS and 6.9 years for OS. Patient weights were similar: (LS, mean 30.5 kg; OS, mean 27.6 kg). Hematologic indications included hereditary spherocytosis in 43 children (LS 26, OS 17), sickle cell anemia with sequestration in 13 (LS 7, OS 6), immune thrombocytopenic purpura in 14 (LS 8, OS 6), and 12 with other disorders (LS 9, OS 3). Concomitant cholecystectomy was performed in 10 of 50 LS and 6 of 32 OS cases. Accessory spleens were identified in 8 of 32 (25%) OS and 9 of 50 (18%) LS cases (P =.578). No LS procedures required conversion to OS. The mean estimated blood loss was 54.4 mL for LS and 49.0 mL for OS (P =.233). LS required a longer operative time (115 vs 83 minutes, P =.002), less need for postoperative intravenous narcotic (51% vs 100%, P <.0001), lower total narcotic doses (0.239 vs 0.480 mg/kg morphine, P =.006), shorter length of hospital stay (1.4 ± 0.97 vs 2.5 ± 1.43 days, P =.0001), and lower average total hospital charges ($5713 vs $6564) than OS. There were no deaths or major complications in either group. Conclusions: Laparoscopic splenectomy is a safe and effective procedure in children with hematologic disorders resulting in longer operative times, less narcotic administration, shorter length of stay, and lower total hospital charge. (Surgery 1998;124:670-6.)
Effects of Uniaxial Stress on the Indirect Exciton Spectrum of Silicon

We have measured the stress dependence of the indirect exciton spectrum of silicon at 77\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K, for static uniaxial compression along the [111], [001], and [110] directions with light polarized parallel and perpendicular to the stress direction, using wavelength modulation. The high stresses reached in this work ($X=1.8\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{10}$ dyn ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}2}$) have enabled us to accurately study the behavior of the ${\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{{25}^{\ensuremath{'}}}$ valence-band maxima and the ${\ensuremath{\Delta}}_{1}$ conduction-band minima under stress. The stress splitting of the valence bands is produced by (i) the orbital-strain interaction, which is described by two deformation potentials ${b}_{1}$ and ${d}_{1}$, and (ii) the stress-dependent spin-orbit interaction, described by ${b}_{2}$ and ${d}_{2}$. We find that $b={b}_{1}+2{b}_{2}=\ensuremath{-}(2.10\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.10)$ eV, ${b}_{2}=\ensuremath{-}(0.1\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.15)$ eV, $d={d}_{1}+2{d}_{2}=\ensuremath{-}(4.85\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.15)$ eV, and ${d}_{2}=\ensuremath{-}(0.05\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.25)$ eV. The same measurements yield a value for the shear deformation potential of the ${\ensuremath{\Delta}}_{1}$ conduction-band minimum ${\mathcal{E}}_{2}=\ensuremath{-}(8.6\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.4)$ eV. The effect of hydrostatic deformation is interpreted in terms of two deformation potentials: ${\mathcal{E}}_{1}+{a}_{1}$ (orbital-strain interaction) and ${a}_{2}$ (stress-dependent spin-orbit interaction). We obtain ${\mathcal{E}}_{1}+{a}_{1}=+(1.5\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.3)$ eV and ${a}_{2}=0$. The hydrostatic coefficient of the indirect gap obtained from ${\mathcal{E}}_{1}+{a}_{1}$ agrees with hydrostatic pressure measurements. In addition the stress-induced coupling between ${\ensuremath{\Delta}}_{1}$ minima and the neighboring ${\ensuremath{\Delta}}_{{2}^{\ensuremath{'}}}$ conduction band, described by the deformation potential $|{\mathcal{E}}_{2}^{*}|=(8\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}3)$ eV, has been observed. Interpretation of the stress dependence of the intensities on the basis of one (${\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{15,c}$ or ${\ensuremath{\Delta}}_{5,v}$) or two (${\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{15,c}$ and ${\ensuremath{\Delta}}_{5,v}$) intermediate states gives the first conclusive evidence of a contribution of ${\ensuremath{\Delta}}_{5,v}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{\ensuremath{\Delta}}_{1,c}$ virtual transitions to the indirect adsorption edge of this material.
Use of 2D:4D Digit Ratios to Determine Sex

Second to fourth digit ratios (2D:4D) are sexually dimorphic in human hands and established by the 13th gestational week. Application of 2D:4D for determining sex in living individuals by Kanchan et al. (Forensic Sci Int, 181, 2008, 53.e1) produced classification rates of 80% for males and 74-78% for females. Few studies have explored the use of 2D:4D for sexing skeletal remains. We test estimated finger lengths, phalanx lengths, and 2D:4D derived from hand bones for determining sex. Maximum phalanx length was collected using a mini-osteometric board from 451 individuals of known age, sex, and ancestry in four skeletal collections. Logistic regression of 2nd and 4th digit finger and phalanx lengths produced classification rates greater than 80%. Digit ratios, however, failed to reach classification rates greater than 59%. Our results support those of Voracek (Forensic Sci Int, 185, 2009, e29) and suggest that 2D:4D may be population-specific and thus inappropriate for universal application as a means of determining sex.
Hydrogen isotope fractionation during water uptake by woody xerophytes

Stable isotope measurements are employed extensively in plant–water relations research to investigate physiological and hydrological processes from whole plant to ecosystem scales. Stable isotopes of hydrogen and oxygen are routinely measured to identify plant source water. This application relies on the assumption that no fractionation of oxygen and hydrogen isotopes in water occurs during uptake by roots. However, a large fraction of the water taken up through roots in halophytic and xerophytic plants transverses cell membranes in the endodermis before entering the root xylem. Passage of water through this symplastic pathway has been hypothesized to cause fractionation leading to a decrease in 2H of root xylem water relative to that in the surrounding soil medium. We examined 16 woody halophytic and xerophytic plant species in controlled conditions for evidence of hydrogen isotope fractionation during uptake at the root–soil interface. Isotopic separation (Δ2H = δ2Hsoil water − δ2Hxylem water) ranging from 3‰ to 9‰ was observed in 12 species. A significant positive correlation between salinity tolerance and the magnitude of Δ2H was observed. Water in whole stem segments, sapwood, and roots had significantly lower δ2H values relative to soil water in Prosopis velutina Woot., the species expressing the greatest Δ2H values among the 16 species examined. Pressurized water flow through intact root systems of Artemisia tridentata Nutt. and Atriplex canescens (Pursh) Nutt. caused the δ2H values to decrease as flow rate increased. This relationship was not observed in P. velutina. Destroying the plasma membranes of root cells by excessive heat from boiling did not significantly alter the relationship between δ2H of expressed water and flow rate. In light of these results, care should be taken when using the stable isotope method to examine source-water use in halophytic and xerophytic species.
The Tau-function and Poincaré series

Abstract We express the Baker function and the τ-function associated to each point of a certain infinite-dimensional Grassmannian in terms of Poincare series. We also express an infinite-dimensional version of finite-zone solutions of the Kadomtsev-Petviashivili equation in terms of Poincare series.
Analogue assessment, affective arousal, and the smoking taste test

Abstract The relation between conditions of affective arousal and smoking was evaluated by the utilization of the taste test as the dependent measure for smoking behavior. Experimentally manipulated levels of arousal did not significantly influence smoking intensity or topography; however, the results are qualified by data which casts doubt on the validity of the taste test. There were no significant correlations between performance on the taste test and smoking in the natural environment. The implications regarding the validity of assessment analogue procedures are presented.
Major histocompatibility class I molecules can present cryptic translation products to T-cells.

Self or foreign cellular proteins provide peptides for presentation by major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules on the surface of antigen presenting cells (APC). Surprisingly, several studies have shown that T-cells can recognize APC transfected with antigen genes that were not present in the appropriate translational context. To understand the basis of this phenomenon, APC were transfected with DNA constructs encoding the OVA257-264 (SL8) peptide, but with varying translation initiation codons. We report that, in addition to ATG, 6 other codons (ATT, ACG, CTG, GCG, TGG, GAT) also allowed presentation to SL8•Kb-specific T-cells. Significantly, this set includes 3 of 4 known non-ATG translation initiation codons strongly suggesting that cryptic translation accounts for this phenomenon. Although expression of the SL8•Kb complex was readily detected by T-cell activation, the amount of processed peptides was below detection limit (
A Public/Private Partnership in the Quest for Quality: Development of Cerebrovascular Disease Practice Guidelines and Review Criteria

The development of Uniform Clinical Data Set (UCDS) algorithms for cerebrovascular disease can serve as a model for cooperation between government agencies and physician organizations in the develop ment of clinical guidelines and the translation of prac tice guidelines into review criteria. UCDS is a computer ized system of data collection and case finding developed by the Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) to standardize the Peer Review Organization screening process for potential utilization and quality problems. Input on the cerebrovascular disease algo rithms was provided through the American Medical As sociation UCDS Advisory Panel and the American Acad emy of Neurology Task Force on Hospital Utilization for Stroke. Physician organizations were successful in identifying problematic areas, improving the original al gorithms, suggesting new issues for development, and deleting inappropriate or misdirected algorithms. Since HCFA modified the cerebrovascular disease algorithms in response to fe...
Ruthenium molecular wires with conjugated bridging ligands: onset of band formation in linear inorganic conjugated oligomers.

We have prepared and characterized a series of multimetallic oligomers of Ru using the π-conjugated bridging ligand tetra-2-pyridyl-1,4-pyrazine (tppz), as well as mixed-ligand complexes with terpyridine end caps, and analyzed their electrochemical and spectroscopic properties, comparing them with modern computational electronic structure methods. The results suggest that the high degree of metal−metal interunit communication in these linear oligomers yields low HOMO−LUMO gaps, high delocalization, and the onset of “quasi-band” features, all indicative that these compounds should be excellent molecular wire materials. Recent spectroscopic and excited-state analyses of these and related compounds focus on optically accessible states, which ignore optically silent frontier electronic states more relevant to nanoelectronic applications.
Purulent pericarditis complicating pneumonia

Summary An instance is reported of a recovery from purulent pericarditis in an 80month-old infant following a single large, therapeutic aspiration of the pericardial sac and the subsequent, gradual development of pneumopericardium, both of which factors appear to have operated together in bringing about the favorable outcome. The suggestion is derived from the events in this case that therapeutic aspiration followed by induced pneumopericardium may, under certain circumstances, serve as a conservative method of treatment in purulent pericarditis.
Influence of Thyroxine In Vivo on Preadipocyte Development and Insulin‐Like Growth Factor‐I and IGF Binding Protein Secretion in Fetal Stromal Vascular Cell Cultures

Studies were conducted to determine the influence of thyroxine (T4) in vivo on preadipocyte development and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) and IGF binding proteins (IGFBPs) secretion in stromal-vascular (S-V) cultures. Fetal pigs were hypophysectomized (hypox) at 70 days of gestation, implanted with T4 pellets, and fetuses from the dam at 75 days of gestation. In a second experiment, hypox and T4 implantation were performed at 75 days and fetal pigs removed at 95 days of gestation. Primary cultures of stromal vascular (S-V) cells derived from fetal adipose tissue were established. Cultures were stained for morphological analysis and conditioned media were collected for IGF-1 determination by radioimmunoassay (RIA) and IGFBP analysis by Western blotting. After only 5 days of T4 treatment, fat cell cluster number and size and lipid deposition in cultures were significantly increased compared to cultures from untreated hypox fetuses. Fetal hypox reduced IGF-I secretion by preadipocytes at both ages and T4 treatment completely normalized IGF-I secretion (p < 0.05). Four IGFBPs (BP-1, BP-2, BP-3 & BP-4) detected in S-V cultures derived from 95-day fetuses were decreased in concentration by hypox by 44 +/- 9.4%, 32 +/- 9.7%, 42 +/- 12% and 53 +/- 6.9%. In cultures derived from T4 treated hypox fetuses, the levels of these four IGFBPs were increased by 187 +/- 25%, 239 +/- 38%, 190 +/- 5% and 347 +/- 43% over control values, respectively. In cultures from 75-day fetuses, only IGFBP-2 (major one) and BP-1 (minor one) were detected and their secretion was also decreased by hypox and elevated by T4 treatment (190 +/- 49.5%, 156 +/- 30%, respectively, of controls). The results provide direct evidence that T4 has a major influence on fetal preadipocyte development. T4 stimulated production of IGF-I and IGFBP in fetal S-V cultures, which in turn, may have mediated the capability of T4 to enhance fetal adipose tissue development.
C-terminal deletions of the Escherichia coli RecA protein. Characterization of in vivo and in vitro effects.

A set of C-terminal deletion mutants of the RecA protein of Escherichia coli, progressively removing 6, 13, 17, and 25 amino acid residues, has been generated, expressed, and purified. In vivo, the deletion of 13 to 17 C-terminal residues results in increased sensitivity to mitomycin C.In vitro, the deletions enhance binding to duplex DNA as previously observed. We demonstrate that much of this enhancement involves the deletion of residues between positions 339 and 346. In addition, the C-terminal deletions cause a substantial upward shift in the pH-reaction profile of DNA strand exchange reactions. The C-terminal deletions of more than 13 amino acid residues result in strong inhibition of DNA strand exchange below pH 7, where the wild-type protein promotes a proficient reaction. However, at the same time, the deletion of 13–17 C-terminal residues eliminates the reduction in DNA strand exchange seen with the wild-type protein at pH values between 7.5 and 9. The results suggest the existence of extensive interactions, possibly involving multiple salt bridges, between the C terminus and other parts of the protein. These interactions affect the pK a of key groups involved in DNA strand exchange as well as the direct binding of RecA protein to duplex DNA.
From Protective to Equal Treatment: Legal Framing Processes and Transformation of the Women’s Movement in the 1960s1

The author develops the concept of legal framing to expand theoretical knowledge on the cultural and symbolic processes that enable, constrain, and transform social movements. Merging insights from social movement theory, the sociology of law, and law and society scholarship, the author argues that law is a type of “master frame,” and that mobilizing law’s “constitutive” symbols and categories is a central, yet routinely overlooked, way in which challengers frame their grievances, identity, and objectives. This study systematically explores legal framing processes through historical‐narrative analysis of the women’s movement and the debate over protective labor laws in the 1960s. Historical evidence suggests that reciprocal transformations in the women’s movement and equal employment law were largely attributable to a symbolic framing contest between competing cultural representations of gender (“protective” vs. “equal” treatment) and that this contest was waged in explicitly legal terms.
Enhancement of Peritoneal Transport in Rats by Disrupting Stagnant Fluid Films

Dialysate comes into contact with the active membrane and remains in contact until the fluid is refreshed. This design exaggerates stagnant fluid films. Dialysis rate studies were done to evaluate transport when stagnant fluid Aims were disrupted. Following anesthesia, 30 mL of commercial 1.5% glucose dialysate containing 100 mg% urea and 25 mg% inulin warmed to 37.5 C were instilled. Dialysate was sampled at 5,15,30,45, and 60 min after instillation. Experimental rats were vibrated at 25 Hz throughout the study. Diffusive mass-transfer coefficients (MTC mL/min 1000 cm2) were calculated, and control and vibrated group means were tested for differences using Student’s t-test. The mean MTC values for control (n = 10) and vibrated groups (n = 12), respectively, were: urea 0.8 ± 0.04, 1.4 ± 0.2, p < 0.01; glucose 0.4 ± 0.03, 0.6 ± 0.03, p < 0.01; inulin 0.2 ± 0.01, 0.2 ± 0.01, p = NS. Disrupting stagnant fluid films augments peritoneal transport.
Nanoindentation study of individual cellulose nanowhisker-reinforced PVA electrospun fiber

Electrospun poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) fiber and its composites have been widely studied recently. However, most physical properties reported in literature are measured from a nanofiber web. In this study, for the first time, the mechanical properties of individual electrospun fiber, rather than fiber web, of cellulose nanowhisker-reinforced poly(vinyl alcohol) was studied using nanoindentation technique. The modulus is 2.1 GPa for a pure PVA electrospun fiber, and 7.6 GPa for 20.0 wt% cellulose nanowhisker-reinforced PVA electrospun fiber, respectively. The modulus of PVA/cellulose nanowhisker electrospun fibers increases linearly with increasing loading ratio of cellulose nanowhiskers up to 20.0 wt%. The experimental results were compared with that calculated using isotropic and longitudinal Halpin–Tsai models. The modules of the cellulose nanowhiskers are 60–80 % higher than the isotropic model predictions but lower than longitudinal model prediction, suggesting the nanowhiskers are partially aligned to the electrospun fiber direction.
Ecological character displacement in a variable environment

Abstract We analyzed a simple genetic model of ecological character displacement in a fluctuating environment. Character states of two identical, competing species were determined by a single-gene, two-allele model. In each generation, the carrying capacity of different segments of a uniform resource spectrum fluctuated randomly. Inter- and intraspecific exploitation competition reduced fitnesses of similar genotypes. In contrast to demographic models of niche shift, this genetic model led to a high average overlap of species in a variable environment. However, for moderate or small environmental fluctuations, character distributions of the two species diverged significantly and rapidly. Results were nearly identical for a model of environmental fluctuations that incorporated resource “crunches.” These models were sensitive to the intrinsic rate of increase of the competing species: divergence was substantially slower at small values of r. Nevertheless, most simulations of this simple genetic model suggest that interspecific competition can lead to significant divergence, even in a moderately fluctuating environment.
Event Pileup in Charge-coupled Devices

The problem of event pileup in single-photon-counting CCD cameras (e.g., in the X-ray regime) is discussed, and a solution to the problem is proposed. The resulting pileup equation includes the effects of grade migration and presents itself as a nonlinear modification to the standard integral equation used by forward-folding spectral-fitting programs. The effectiveness of the model is demonstrated by its application to the moderately piled zeroth-order data obtained by the Chandra X-Ray Observatory for the quasar S5 0836+7104.
Three-dimensional microwell arrays for cell culture

We propose the concept of three-dimensional (3D) microwell arrays for cell culture applications and highlight the importance of oxygen diffusion through pores in all three dimensions to enhance cell viability.
Mission concept and technology for spectroscopic observations of the coastal oceans from geosynchronous orbit

Space-based, multispectral, ocean color measurements of the earth's oceans have significantly added to our understanding of the oceans over the past 25 years. All of these past and current space based sensors have operated in low earth orbit with moderate temporal resolution. We describe a mission concept for improved temporal and spectroscopic measurement of the ocean from geosynchronous orbit. This orbit requires that specific, available technologies be integrated into the instrument and spacecraft. For an instrument and spacecraft configured with these technologies this vantage point offers a unique opportunity when viewing dynamic, low reflectance components of the deep-ocean and coastal areas.
p-Trifluoroacetamidophenyl O-α-d-mannopyranosyl-(1→3)-O-[α-d-mannopyranosyl-(1→6)]-β-d-mannopyranoside

p-Nitrophenyl 2-O-benzyl-4,5-O-cyclohexylidene-beta-D-mannopyranoside (4) was condensed with tetra-O-benzoyl-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl bromide. The resulting, protected disaccharide was converted into p-nitrophenyl O-(2,3,4-tri-O-benzoyl-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl)-(1----3)-4-O-benzoyl-2-O- benzyl-beta-D-mannopyranoside (8), which was condensed with tetra-O-benzoyl-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl bromide to give p-nitrophenyl O-(2,3,4-tri-O-benzoyl-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl)-(1----3)-O -[2,3,4-tri-O-benzoyl-alpha-D-mannopyranosyl-(1----6)]-4-O-benzoyl-2-O -benzyl-beta-D-mannopyranoside (9) in 75% yield. Conversion of the p-nitrophenyl group followed by deprotection then yielded the title compound, whose structure was confirmed by 1H- and 13C-n.m.r. spectroscopy.
Ro-vibrational collective interpretation of supermultiplet classifications of intrashell levels of two-electron atoms

We investigate whether the intrashell portion of the double-excitation spectrum of the helium atom may be interpreted in terms of collective rotational and bending vibrational motion, analogous to the ro-vibrational motion of molecules. Earlier work by us had identified a few levels in each atomic shell as having a rotorlike spectrum cutoff at higher energies, analogous to the cutoff rotorlike spectra of some nuclei. In this paper we use the I and d supermultiplets of the preceding paper of this journal, to interpret the entire intrashell manifold for each principal quantum number N, as resembling cutoff rotational and bending vibrational levels of a highly nonrigid linear symmetric XYX ''molecular'' structure. We obtain a good qualitative fit of each intrashell spectrum using leading-order ro-vibrational energy formulas from molecular spectroscopy including anharmonicity, centrifugal distortion, and rotation-vibration coupling. We interpret these effects for low-lying intrashell states of two-electron atoms, and find them to be consistent with an average equilibrium configuration theta/sub 12/=180/sup 0/ for the interelectronic angle. Analysis of the time scales of the proposed rotational, bending, and other degrees of freedom suggests approximate separability. We also identify parts of the spectrum analogous to molecular l doubling, and indicate a possible link betweenmore » the related Coriolis force and a recently proposed mechanism for decay by autoionization. Certain aspects of our collective interpretation of the atomic supermultiplets are discussed which have close parallels in nuclear physics, including the Elliott model and the SU(6) interacting boson model for nuclear collective motion.« less
Ultrasonic flaw detection in a monorail box beam

A steel box beam in a monorail application is constructed with an epoxy grout wearing surface, precluding visual inspection of its top flange. This paper describes a sequence of experimental research tasks to develop an ultrasonic system to detect flaws (such as fatigue cracks) in that flange, and the results of a field test to demonstrate system performance. The problem is constrained by the fact that the flange is exposed only along its longitudinal edges, and by the fact that permanent installation of transducers at close spacing was deemed to be impractical. The system chosen for development, after experimental comparison of alternate technologies, features angle-beam ultrasonic transducers with fluid coupling to the flange edge; the emitting transducers create transverse waves that travel diagonally across the width of the flange, where an array of receiving transducers detect flaw reflections and flaw shadows. The system rolls along the box beam, surveying (screening) the top flange for the presence of flaws. In a first research task, conducted on a full-size beam specimen, we compared waves generated from different transducer locations, either the flange edge or the web face, and at different frequency ranges. At relatively low frequencies, such as 100 kHz, we observed Lamb wave modes, and at higher frequency, in the MHz range, we observed nearlylongitudinal waves with trailing pulses. In all cases we observed little attenuation by the wearing surface and little influence of reflection at the web-flange joints. At the conclusion of this task we made the design decision to use edgemounted transducers at relatively high frequency, with correspondingly short wavelength, for best scattering from flaws. In a second research task we conducted experiments at 55% scale on a steel plate, with machined flaws of different size, and detected flaws of target size for the intended application. We then compared the performance of bonded transducers, fluid-coupled transducers, and angle-beam (wedge) transducers; from that comparison we made the design decision to use wedges, which beam the wave to increase the scattering from flaws. We also compared the performance of wired transducers using fluid coupling to that of wireless (inductively coupled) transducers mounted permanently. Although the wireless transducers achieved flaw detection, the necessary spacing (determined experimentally) would have required an impractical number of transducers. Therefore, we made the design decision to use wedge transducers with fluid coupling. In a third research task we developed and tested a rolling system with a water channel for acoustic coupling, including a study of its sensitivity to misalignment, and in a fourth task we devised a data display to create a pattern of reflections or shadows that could be easily interpreted as evidence of a flaw. Finally, we conducted a field test on the full-size system in a region containing bolt holes, which act as a physical simulation of a flaw, and show successful detection of reflections and shadows from those holes.
Supercell calculation on the ideal silicon single vacancy

Abstract Supercell calculations on a Si diamond lattice with 16, 54 and 128 sites containing one ideal vacancy are performed using a semi-ab-initio method. The electronic density of defect states shows an approximate linear relationship to the size of the supercell. Extrapolation of the result indicates that for a supercell of about 222 sites, the defect interaction between the adjacent cells will be negligible and the T 2 defect state is estimated to be at about 0.85 eV above the valence band edge.
A rapid prototyping method for polymer microfluidics with fixed aspect ratio and 3D tapered channels

In this work, a new method of rapidly fabricating thermopolymer and elastomer microfluidic channels has been developed and characterized for production of microfluidics with fixed aspect ratio and 3D tapered channels. A unique way to attain a desired channel depth by simply altering channel width is demonstrated. This rapid prototyping method is compatible with replication methods such as injection molding, hot embossing and elastomer casting and offers the ability to fabricate multiple channel depths (5 μm – 1 mm) simultaneously in a single lithographic step. This method yields facile fabrication of 3-dimensionally tapered channels and polymer lab chips.
Oklahoma's Public 2-Year Colleges: Genesis and Destiny.

Oklahoma's public 2‐year colleges originated from the public's belief in educational democracy. The crash of the oil industry in the mid‐1980s and the negative effects of the downturn in the national economy during the past decade, however, have called into question whether the state can afford its historical commitment to educational access. Oklahoma's 152‐year institutions have been responding to wave after wave of restructuring and reform initiatives since 1987. Having met the initial demands for change with innovative practices and internal reallocation efforts, the 2‐year colleges now face a second major wave of critical inspection by diverse groups. This article details the proactive responses that either have been or that currently are being pursued by the state's community colleges to successfully meet the challenges of diminishing funding and increasing demands for quality, efficiency, and accountability.
Risk Factors for Midterm Cardiac Function Deterioration After Valve Replacement Surgery in Patients With Rheumatic Mitral Stenosis

Abstract Background A symptomatic reduction in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is the main reason for postoperative heart failure after valve replacement surgery. However, postoperative heart failure occurs in patients with normal preoperative LVEF. Therefore, we examined clinical and echocardiographic data of patients with rheumatic heart disease to determine additional risk factors for low LVEF in the postoperative period. Methods and Results Ninety-seven patients with rheumatic heart disease (RHD) who underwent mitral valve replacement for severe mitral valve stenosis were included retrospectively in this study. All patients had normal LVEF before surgery. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on postoperative LVEF 6 months after surgery. Groups A had normal postoperative LVEF (82 cases, 84.5%), and group B had low postoperative LVEF (15 cases, 15.5%). Clinical and electrocardiographic data were collected to determine risk factors for deterioration in cardiac function. Multivariate analysis revealed that preoperative low systolic peak velocities at the lateral tricuspid annulus (St) and no or mild aortic stenosis were independent risk factors for cardiac deterioration in patients with normal preoperative LVEF. Individuals with preoperative St ≤4.8 cm/s were more likely to develop lower LVEF at follow-up (χ 2 = 7.54; P = .006; odds ratio 5.03, 95% confidence interval 1.31–20.82). All 15 patients who had normal preoperative LVEF but abnormal postoperative LVEF had no or only mild aortic valve stenosis. Conclusions Decreased right ventricular function and no or mild aortic stenosis were independent risk factors for low LVEF at follow-up in patients with RHD who had normal preoperative LVEF. The velocity of the tricuspid valve ring should be included in preoperative evaluations to improve the accuracy of postsurgical prognosis and clinical decision making.
Static $\bar Q Q$ Potentials and the Magnetic Component of QCD Plasma near $T_c$

Static quark-antiquark potential encodes important information on the chromodynamical interaction between color charges, and recent lattice results show its very nontrivial behavior near the deconfinement temperature T{sub c}. In this paper we study such potential in the framework of the 'magnetic scenario' for the near T{sub c} QCD plasma, and particularly focus on the linear part (as quantified by its slope, the tension) in the potential as well as the strong splitting between the free energy and internal energy. By using an analytic 'ellipsoidal bag' model, we will quantitatively relate the free energy tension to the magnetic condensate density and relate the internal energy tension to the thermal monopole density. By converting the lattice results for static potential into density for thermal monopoles we find the density to be very large around T{sub c} and indicate at quantum coherence, in good agreement with direct lattice calculation of such density. A few important consequences for heavy ion collisions phenomenology will also be discussed.