cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Viewing images of alcohol use in PG-13-rated movies and alcohol initiation in Mexican-heritage youth.

Mexican American adolescents report high rates of alcohol consumption as well as media use. Viewing alcohol images in the media is associated with increased alcohol consumption; however, to date, this association has not been examined across different ethnic groups in the United States. To bridge this gap, we examined the association between viewing alcohol use images in PG-13-rated movies and alcohol initiation in Mexican-heritage adolescents. A cohort of 1,154 Mexican-heritage youth, average age 14 years, was followed for 2 years; in 2008-2009, participants reported alcohol use in the past 30 days and again in 2010-2011. Exposure to alcohol use images in PG-13-rated movies was estimated from 50 movies randomly selected from a pool of 250 of the top box office hits in the United States using previously validated methods. A series of generalized linear models, adjusting for age, gender, peer and family alcohol use, family functioning, anxiety, sensation-seeking tendency, and acculturation were completed. Multiple imputation was utilized to address missing data. Overall, N = 652 participants reported no alcohol use in 2008-2009; by 2010-2011, 33.6% (n = 219) had initiated alcohol use. Adjusted models indicated an independent association between exposure to alcohol use images in PG-13-rated movies and alcohol initiation (comparing quartiles 3 to 1: RR =1.53; 95% CI [1.11, 2.10]). The findings emphasize that the relationship between viewing alcohol use scenes in American films and alcohol initiation holds among Mexican-heritage adolescents and underscore the need to limit adolescents' exposure to such powerful images in PG-13-rated movies.
Allegories of “Postracial” Capitalism: Colson Whitehead and the Materials of Twenty-First-Century Black Cultural Authorship

ABSTRACTThis essay reads novels by Colson Whitehead as sustained allegorical engagements with race’s conceptual and discursive mutation across capitalism’s historical development, and also as highl...
Reachability analysis for neural feedback systems using regressive polynomial rule inference

We present an approach to construct reachable set overapproximations for continuous-time dynamical systems controlled using neural network feedback systems. Feedforward deep neural networks are now widely used as a means for learning control laws through techniques such as reinforcement learning and data-driven predictive control. However, the learning algorithms for these networks do not guarantee correctness properties on the resulting closed-loop systems. Our approach seeks to construct overapproximate reachable sets by integrating a Taylor model-based flowpipe construction scheme for continuous differential equations with an approach that replaces the neural network feedback law for a small subset of inputs by a polynomial mapping. We generate the polynomial mapping using regression from input-output samples. To ensure soundness, we rigorously quantify the gap between the output of the network and that of the polynomial model. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach over a suite of benchmark examples ranging from 2 to 17 state variables, comparing our approach with alternative ideas based on range analysis.
Effect of Kinesiology Taping on Upper Torso Mobility and Shoulder Pain and Disability in US Masters National Championship Swimmers: An Exploratory Study.

Abstract Objective The purpose of this study was to observe changes in shoulder pain and upper-extremity functional movement after kinesiology taping (KT) in competitive swimmers. Methods Seventy-six healthy participants competing in the US Masters Swimming 2017 National Championship participated in the study. Participants performed functional movement of shoulder flexion along with Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand index assessments for the shoulder before and 30 minutes after application of KT. Results A change in the functional movement assessment was observed after KT application when compared to the pre-KT application (33.56 ± 1.39 cm vs 35.35 ± 1.52 cm, P Conclusion For the participants in this study, KT changed shoulder pain and active functional movement scores significantly in swimmers.
A Recursion for the FiboNarayana and the Generalized Narayana Numbers

The Lucas polynomials, $\{n\}$, are polynomials in $s$ and $t$ given by $\{ n \} = s \{ n-1 \} + t \{ n-2 \}$ for $n \geq 2$ with $ \{ 0 \} = 0$ and $\{ 1 \} = 1$. The lucanomial coefficients, an analogue of the binomial coefficients, are given by \[ \Bigl\{ \begin{array}{c} n\\k \end{array} \Bigr \} = \frac{ \{n\}! }{ \{k\}! \{n-k\}!}. \] When $s = t = 1$ then $\{ n \} = F_n$ and the lucanomial coefficient becomes the fibonomial coefficient \[ \binom{n}{k}_F = \frac{F_n!}{F_k! F_{n-k}!}. \] The well-known Narayana numbers, $N_{n,k}$ satisfy the equation \[ N_{n,k} = \frac{1}{n} \binom{n}{k} \binom{n}{k-1}. \] \[ %C_n = \sum_{k=1}^n N_{n,k}. %\] In 2018, Bennett, Carrillo, Machacek and Sagan defined the generalized Narayana numbers and conjectured that these numbers are positive integers for $n \geq 1$. In this paper we define the FiboNarayana number $N_{n,k,F}$ and give a new recurrence relation for both the FiboNarayana numbers and the generalized Narayana numbers, proving the conjecture that these are positive integers for $n \geq 1$.
Racial and Ethnic Divides in Privatized Punishment: Examining Disparities in Private Prison Placements

Scholars have identified diverse ways in which get-tough policies adversely affect minorities. An interest has also emerged in privatized corrections and the potential for exploitation of those who...
Deepening the Guard-Inmate Divide: An Exploratory Analysis of the Relationship between Staff-Inmate Boundary Violations and Officer Attitudes regarding the Mistreatment of Prisoners

Some correctional officers end their careers in disgrace when they engage in acts of cruelty against the very inmates they are paid to protect. In the present study, we administered 501 questionnai...
Safety and tolerability of once‐weekly GLP‐1 receptor agonists in type 2 diabetes

What is known and objective In recent years, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) including once-weekly (QW) formulations have been incorporated into type 2 diabetes (T2D) clinical guidelines, making it essential that pharmacists and healthcare professionals (HCPs) have a clear understanding of their safety profiles. Currently, three QW GLP-1 RAs are approved and marketed in the United States for the treatment of T2D: dulaglutide, exenatide extended-release and semaglutide. This review provides pharmacists and HCPs with collated data related to potential safety and tolerability issues when patients use QW GLP-1 RAs, enabling patient education and treatment optimization. Methods This is a narrative review comparing the safety and tolerability of the three QW GLP-1 RAs, using data from Phase 3 clinical trials. Extracted safety data included gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events (AEs), hypoglycaemia, injection-site reactions, pancreatitis, neoplasms, gallbladder events, and diabetic retinopathy (DR) and/or its complications (DRCs). Results and discussion A total of 30 trials were identified for inclusion; eight were head-to-head trials involving another GLP-1 RA; of these, six compared GLP-1 RAs with different dosing regimens (QW vs once-daily or twice-daily), and two were direct QW vs QW GLP-1 RA comparisons. The most commonly reported AEs were GI events (notably nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea), but there was variation between the three QW drugs. These were generally mild-to-moderate in severity and transient. Risk of hypoglycaemia, injection-site reactions, pancreatitis, neoplasms and gallbladder events was generally low across the GLP-1 RAs investigated. Overall rates of DR or DRC were low across the trials. Only in one trial (SUSTAIN 6) there were significantly more DRC events reported in patients treated with QW semaglutide (3.0%) compared with placebo (1.8%). This was likely due to the rapid improvement in glucose control in patients with pre-existing DR enrolled within that trial. What is new and conclusion This review puts the latest clinical data from the marketed QW GLP-1 RAs into context with results from older Phase 3 trials, to enable pharmacists and HCPs to make informed treatment decisions. Each of the three QW GLP-1 RAs has their own safety profile, which should be considered when choosing the optimal treatment for patients.
A new approach to automated affinity tagged protein purification

LB-305 Purification of affinity tagged recombinant proteins is a critical first step for downstream functional and structural studies in many cancer research laboratories. Two commonly used affinity tags for the purification of recombinant proteins include the glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and poly-histidine (His) tags. An automated chromatography instrument has been developed for fast, reproducible, and cost-effective purification of both GST and His-tagged proteins. The system is configured for tandem chromatography applications and can perform time saving affinity purifications with integrated desalting (buffer exchange) in a single run. The system provides a complete set of chromatography buffers and affinity cartridges that have been optimized for GST and IMAC (immobilized metal affinity chromatography) separations. A user-friendly touch screen interface allows users to select pre-programmed chromatography methods or to customize methods for specific applications. The system is specifically designed for ease of use and for the unattended purification of 1-100 mg of GST or His-tagged proteins. Following purifications, instrument and column cleaning routines are performed to ensure optimal system performance. Representative purifications of GST tagged proteins using pre-programmed methods as well as custom methods designed to increase overall yield of purified protein are presented.
Design of efficient low-frequency sound absorbers using an array of Helmholtz Resonators

This paper describes the design process of a low-frequency sound absorptive panel composed of differently tuned Helmholtz Resonators. Given the size and fabrication constraints relevant for applications in the building sector, we focus on cylindrical and spiral resonators with embedded necks that are space-efficient and can achieve perfect absorption. Apart from the design of an individual resonator, the design process involves modifying the mutual interaction between the resonators to improve the absorption performance of the whole panel. Additional resistance in the necks is considered as a means to shift the absorption towards lower frequencies. Panel sizes of 0.2 m × 0.2 m loaded with 9 or 16 resonators were tested in an impedance tube built specifically for measuring low-frequency absorption. The measured absorption performance of these panels is consistent with the theoretical predictions. Of particular interest is the impact of the arrangement of the resonators in the panel on its absorption performance, which has been overlooked in the theoretical models. As predicted, the experiments show a shift in absorption performance towards low-frequencies with the inclusion of neck embedding and additional resistance in the neck, and without changing the geometry of the panel.
Ten-year review of neuroimaging in acute paediatric strabismus

Background Acute childhood strabismus is often a clinical conundrum faced by ophthalmologists. Currently, there are no clear clinical guidelines on how to investigate a child presenting with acute strabismus. Furthermore, there is no consensus as to whether to initially perform neuroimaging of a child to rule out the small but serious risk of intracranial pathology, or to pursue a careful observational approach. This paper aims to outline a standardised approach to investigating acute strabismus in paediatric patients. Methods A retrospective chart review of all paediatric patients that presented over a 10-year period to the ophthalmology departments at two tertiary level hospitals in New Zealand was conducted. Patients under 18 years of age with an acute presentation of strabismus, who underwent neuroimaging, were included. Results A total of 500 patient records were reviewed. Seventy patients met the study inclusion criteria. Of these patients, 17 (24.3%) had non-isolated strabismus while 53 patients (75.7%) had isolated strabismus. Twelve patients (70.6%) who presented with a non-isolated strabismus had abnormal neuroimaging. Of those who presented with an isolated strabismus, 4 (7.5%) had abnormal neuroimaging. Conclusions Acute onset non-isolated strabismus is a significant predictor of underlying neurological abnormality in children and requires urgent neuroimaging. However, a cautious approach in which there is close observation, along with general paediatric and/or paediatric neurology input, may be appropriate for children presenting acutely with an isolated strabismus.
A compact open-hole compression test fixture for composite materials

Abstract A new open-hole compression (OHC) test fixture for composite laminates is proposed as a promising alternative to existing test fixtures. It is tested on both standard angle (SA) and non-standard angle (NSA) laminates. As compared to ASTM D6484, the new test fixture increases the fiber continuity threshold from 17° to 27° (which is required for accurate testing of NSA), with 80% less material needed for coupons. The new fixture shows results consistent with ASTM D6484 on SA laminates, but are significantly different OHC strengths (up to 28%) on NSA laminates. The difference on NSA laminates may be due to the 17° fiber continuity threshold in ASTM D6484, suggesting a potential application of the proposed fixture in NSA studies. From this preliminary testing with NSA laminates, fiber continuity could be a critical factor for the laminate to benefit OHC strength improvement from flipped angle designs.
Great exaptations

Long interspersed nuclear elements (LINEs) are among the most successful parasitic genetic sequences in higher organisms. Recent work has discovered many instances of LINE incorporation into exons, reminding us of the hazards they pose to genes in their vicinity as well as their potential to be co-opted for the host's purposes.
Does Creative Destruction Matter in Competitive Industries

We find that the positive impact of a firm’ own innovations on its own growth is similar in more and less competitive industries. In contrast, the negative impact of rival firms’ innovations on a firm’s growth (creative destruction) is significantly stronger in less competitive industries, especially for firms with less independent existing board. Creative destruction improves subsequent board independence and interrupts the quiet life of managers more in less competitive industries. Difference-in-differences tests using major tariff cuts show that our results are unlikely due to endogeneity. Overall, creative destruction improves resource reallocation and efficiency when there is inadequate competition.
Correlating light absorbance parameters in peach skin with susceptibility to streaking and association with rainwater components

Since first observed in 2003, peach skin streaking (PSS) has increasingly affected fruit production in the Southeast. Since 2017 we have documented the occurrence of peach skin streaking on 21 cult...
Medial Collateral Ligament Injury

The medial collateral ligament (MCL) is one of the most commonly injured knee ligaments. Most MCL injuries can be managed conservatively, but some require surgical intervention. A thorough history and a solid physical exam, combined with imaging, can help determine the best course of treatment. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the mainstay modality for assessing the soft-tissue structures of the knee, as it can show great detail into the extent of the injury. Treatment for MCL injuries ranges from conservative treatment, with bracing and rehab, for incomplete tears to surgical repair for complete tears. Clinical outcomes are generally favorable, with most patients returning to baseline activity levels.
MicroRNA-455-3p improves synaptic, cognitive functions and extends lifespan: Relevance to Alzheimer's disease.

Abstract Background MicroRNA-455-3p is one of the highly conserved miRNAs involved in multiple cellular functions in humans and we explored its relevance to learning and memory functions in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Our recent in vitro studies exhibited the protective role of miR-455-3p against AD toxicities in reducing full-length APP and amyloid-β (Aβ) levels, and also in reducing defective mitochondrial biogenesis, impaired mitochondrial dynamics and synaptic deficiencies. In the current study, we sought to determine the function of miR-455-3p in mouse models. Methods For the first time we generated both transgenic (TG) and knockout (KO) mouse models of miR-455-3p. We determined the lifespan extension, cognitive function, mitochondrial biogenesis, mitochondrial dynamics, mitochondrial morphology, dendritic spine density, synapse numbers and synaptic activity in miR-455-3p TG and KO mice. Results MiR-455-3p TG mice lived 5 months longer than wild-type (WT) counterparts, whereas KO mice lived 4 months shorter than WT mice. Morris water maze test showed improved cognitive behavior, spatial learning and memory in miR-455-3p TG mice relative to age-matched WT mice and miR-455-3p KO mice. Further, mitochondrial biogenesis, dynamics and synaptic activities were enhanced in miR-455-3p TG mice, while these were reduced in KO mice. Overall, overexpressed miR-455-3p in mice displayed protective effects, whereas depleted miR-455-3p in mice exhibited deleterious effects in relation to lifespan, cognitive behavior, and mitochondrial and synaptic activities. Conclusion Both mouse models could be ideal research tools to understand the molecular basis of aging and its relevance to AD and other age-related diseases.
Seafood: Effects of Technology on Nutrition

Analyzes how the technology and commercial practices of cultivation affect the nutritive value of certain fish, molluscs, crustacea, and freshwater plants. Organized to reflect the sequence from growth, harvest, and capture, through transportation, storage, and processing, to packaging and distribut
PET-CT of rare diseases and syndromes

1276 Learning Objectives The objective of this exhibit is to familiarize the reader with constellation of findings present in rare disorders and diseases. PET-CT is used frequently to stage, restage and assess response to therapy in various malignancies. We present an educational exhibit of the the role of PET-CT in rare disorders and syndromes such as Von Hippel-Lindau Syndrome, neurofibromatosis, epithelial hemangioendothelioma and myositis such as dermatomyositis. We review the typical findings in these infrequently encountered disorders. The PET-CT reader may be the first physician to diagnose the syndrome from the constellation of findings. This exhibit will familiarize the reader with rare diseases and syndromes leading to increased ease and confidence in interpreting PET-CTs when these cases are encountered.
Can Confirmatory Biopsy be Omitted in Patients with Prostate Cancer Favorable Diagnostic Features on Active Surveillance

Purpose: We evaluated whether initial diagnostic parameters could predict the confirmatory biopsy result in patients initiating active surveillance for prostate cancer, to determine whether some men at low risk for disease reclassification could be spared unnecessary biopsy.Materials and Methods: The cohort included 392 men with Gleason 6 prostate cancer on initial biopsy undergoing confirmatory biopsy. We used univariate and multivariable logistic regression to assess if high grade cancer (Gleason 7 or greater) on confirmatory biopsy could be predicted from initial diagnostic parameters (prostate specific antigen density, magnetic resonance imaging result, percent positive cores, percent cancer in positive cores and total tumor length).Results: Median patient age was 62 years (IQR 56–66) and 47% of patients had a dominant or focal lesion on magnetic resonance imaging. Of the 392 patients 44 (11%) had high grade cancer on confirmatory biopsy, of whom 39 had Gleason 3+4, 1 had 4+3, 3 had Gleason 8 and 1 ha...
Complete Nucleotide Sequences of Two Adjacent Early Vaccinia Virus Genes Located Within the Inverted Terminal Repetition

Abstract The proximal part of the 10,000-base pair (bp) inverted terminal repetition of vaccinia virus DNA encodes at least three early mRNAs. A 2,236-bp segment of the repetition was sequenced to characterize two of the genes. This task was facilitated by constructing a series of recombinants containing overlapping deletions; oligonucleotide linkers with synthetic restriction sites provided points for radioactive labeling before sequencing by the chemical degradation method of Maxam and Gilbert (Methods Enzymol. 65:499-560, 1980). The ends of the transcripts were mapped by hybridizing labeled DNA fragments to early viral RNA and resolving nuclease S1-protected fragments in sequencing gels, by sequencing cDNA clones, and from the lengths of the RNAs. The nucleotide sequences for at least 60 bp upstream of both transcriptional initiation sites are more than 80% adenine · thymine rich and contain long runs of adenines and thymines with some homology to procaryotic and eucaryotic consensus sequences. The gene transcribed in the rightward direction encodes an RNA of approximately 530 nucleotides with a single open reading frame of 420 nucleotides. Preceding the first AUG, there is a heptanucleotide that can hybridize to the 3′ end of 18S rRNA with only one mismatch. The derived amino acid sequence of the protein indicated a molecular weight of 15,500. The gene transcribed in the leftward direction encodes an RNA 1,000 to 1,100 nucleotides long with an open reading frame of 996 nucleotides and a leader sequence of only 5 to 6 nucleotides. The derived amino acid sequence of this protein indicated a molecular weight of 38,500. The 3′ ends of the two transcripts were located within 100 bp of each other. Although there are adenine · thymine-rich clusters near the putative transcriptional termination sites, specific AATAAA polyadenylic acid signal sequences are absent.
BANDWIDTH SELECTION FOR SPATIAL HAC AND OTHER ROBUST COVARIANCE ESTIMATORS

This research note documents estimation procedures and results for an empirical investigation of the performance of the recently developed spatial, heteroskedasticity and autocorrelation consistent (HAC) covariance estimator calibrated with different kernel bandwidths. The empirical example is concerned with a hedonic price model for residential property values. The first bandwidth approach varies an a priori determined plug-in bandwidth criterion. The second method is a data driven cross-validation approach to determine the optimal neighborhood. The third approach uses a robust semivariogram to determine the range over which residuals are spatially correlated. Inference becomes more conservative as the plug-in bandwidth is increased. The data-driven approaches prove valuable because they are capable of identifying the optimal spatial range, which can subsequently be used to inform the choice of an appropriate bandwidth value. In our empirical example, pertaining to a standard spatial model and ditto dataset, the results of the data driven procedures can only be reconciled with relatively high plug-in values (n0.65 or n0.75). The results for the semivariogram and the cross-validation approaches are very similar which, given its computational simplicity, gives the semivariogram approach an edge over the more flexible cross-validation approach.
Ascaris hypersensitivity in the rhesus monkey: I. A model for the study of immediate type hypersensitivity in the primate

Abstract Immediate type hypersensitivity to Ascaris occurs in certain rhesus monkeys. This sensitivity is probably the result of cross-reactive antibodies directed against other nematodes following natural exposure to the latter. The antibodies present in the sensitive monkeys are of a reaginic type, being heat labile and nonprecipitating. The antibodies can passively sensitize monkey skin and have been localized by dextran gel chromatography. Systemic reactivity to Ascaris antigen is present in the animals and is thought to be a type of reaginic reactivity in subhuman primates.
Simulating formations of non-holonomic systems with control limits along curvilinear coordinates

Many games require a method for simulating formations of systems with non-trivial motion constraints, such as aircraft and boats. This paper describes a computationally efficient method for this objective, inspired by solutions in robotics, and describes how to guarantee the satisfaction of the physical constraints. The approach allows a human player to select almost an arbitrary geometric configuration for the formation and to control the aircraft as a single entity. The formation is fixed along curvilinear coordinates, defined by the curvature of the reference trajectory, resulting in naturally looking paths. Moreover, the approach supports dynamic formations and transitions from one desired shape to another. Experiments with a game engine confirm that the proposed method achieves the desired objectives.
Design of an analog ranking system using optical intensity comparison smart-pixels with programmable intensity offset levels

This project involves the design and simulation of a smart-pixel arrangement capable of compensating the interconnect losses of two analog optical signals based on its positional coordinates in the waveguide array and a programmable attenuation factor, before comparing them to produce a digital output. This pixel has been incorporated into an optical co-processor system to rank an array of analog optical signals, with an operation time almost independent of the number of inputs.
Laser Tweezers in the Study of Mechanobiology in Live Cells

The study of how cells respond to mechanical stimuli has recently leaped into the forefront of cell science with recent advances in molecular probes facilitating real-time measurements of cell signaling. In this chapter, we will detail the development of a "real-time" molecular probe designed to report the current fractional activated state of Src kinase by changing its spectral output in accordance to local Src states. Src kinase is widely understood to be a key player in the transduction of mechanical stimuli transduced through cell adhesions and focal complexes. To study the local and long-range Src response to localized stresses, an experimental protocol was developed whereby ligand-coated microspheres were adhered to the cell surface and pulled laterally by laser tweezers. This chapter contains a practical discussion of system design considerations and force calibration. Image processing, background subtraction, and the construction of an unbiased ratio image are discussed. Methods of analyzing the distribution of activated Src molecules are detailed with examples of cells with varying degrees of mechanostimulation.
Control of cholecystokinin receptor dephosphorylation in pancreatic acinar cells.

Phosphorylation of cell surface receptors regulates the physiological response to many hormones and neurotransmitters. We have demonstrated that the receptor for cholecystokinin (CCK), the major secretagogue for the exocrine pancreas, is phosphorylated on serines in response to CCK (Klueppelberg, U.G., Gates, L.K., Gorelick, F.S., and Miller, L.J. (1991) J. Biol. Chem. 266, 2403-2408). Receptor phosphorylation was transient, even in the continued presence of agonist, and suggested a role for pancreatic protein phosphatases (PP) in regulating receptor phosphorylation in the intact cell. Treatment of acinar cells with okadaic acid increased the extent and duration of receptor phosphorylation induced by CCK. Receptor phosphorylated in the intact cell in response to CCK was used as substrate to analyze protein phosphatases in pancreatic acinar cell extracts. The predominant CCK receptor phosphatase activity was found in the cytosol and was potently inhibited by okadaic acid (IC50 = 0.2 nM). This phosphatase activity was unaffected by inhibitor-2, Ca2+, or Mg2+, suggesting that the major receptor phosphatase was PP-2A. Stimulation of cells with CCK resulted in a 3-fold increase in protein phosphatase activity toward the CCK receptor, at the same time that phosphorylase a phosphatase activity was unchanged. This increase in receptor phosphatase activity was reflected only in the cytosol, with the particulate activity unchanged. Consistent with this subcellular localization, the hormone-regulated receptor phosphatase activity was PP-2A, with chromatographic separation demonstrating activity in both PP-2A1 and PP-2A2 forms. These data suggest that CCK coordinates the activity of both protein kinases and phosphatases acting on the CCK receptor to control the extent and duration of receptor phosphorylation in the pancreatic acinar cell.
The Physics of the Interstellar Matter

Some of the most striking recent discoveries about interstellar matter involve molecules. It has been known for a long time that there are atoms and ions in space -mainly hydrogen and helium, of course — but also heavier elements like sodium and calcium. In addition, there are solid particles of dust, about 10-5 cm across, which must be composed of heavier elements, as hydrogen and helium cannot condense under interstellar conditions.
Chapter 5 Sperm and Egg Receptors Involved in Fertilization

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the sperm and egg receptors involved in fertilization. Specific cell-cell binding and specific cell-surface interaction with the substances in solution (for example, toxins, drugs, hormones, and agglutinins) implies interaction of specific receptors on the apposed or exposed surfaces of the cells involved. By analogy, with specific immunological reactions, specific cell attachment and adhesion are commonly explained, by assuming attachment and/or binding by the receptor substances that interact in “lock-and-key” fashion. Several specific sperm–egg interactions can be attributed to the cell-surface receptors comparable to those involved in other specific cell-cell interactions. Certain events are characterized by species specificity and are evidently mediated, by the interaction of specific receptors of complementary gametes, comparable to the cell-specific receptor systems of the other cell types. Certain receptors are released into the solution from gametes, notably eggs, which can act on sperm at a distance from the source. Others are evidently attached to or built into cell coats and the cell membrane. The former include: chemotactic agents for sperm and acrosome initiating agents that presumably interact with complementary sperm-bound receptors. At least, two additional complementary sperm- and egg-bound receptor systems bind sperm to the egg envelopes and the egg plasma membrane.
Simulating a pipelined floating point adder with MPI

This paper describes a simulation that applies the low-level techniques used to accomplish floating point addition. The various stages are identified with emphasis placed on bit-level implementations representing steps like adjusting biased exponents and normalizing. Once the sequential adder is established, the simulation is extended by applying parallelism to pipeline the stages so that many additions can occur in an assembly line fashion.
Smith v. Van Gorkom

Smith v. Van Gorkom arguably was the most important corporate law decision of the 20th century. The supreme court of a state widely criticized for allegedly leading the race to the bottom held that directors who make an uninformed decision face substantial personal liability exposure. In so doing, the court breathed new life into the law of fiduciary duties.For example, Van Gorkom presaged Unocal's significant expansion of judicial review of corporate takeovers. Indeed, a Van Gorkom-based inquiry into whether the board was fully informed remains a key component of the Unocal methodology. Likewise, Van Gorkom laid the foundation for the subsequent Caremark decision and the resulting expansion of judicial inquiry into whether the board of directors exercised proper oversight of its subordinates. In fact, most of the modern edifice of corporate fiduciary duties rests in some degree on the Van Gorkom decision.The perception that the decision had significantly increased director liability exposure drove dramatic changes in the D&O liability insurance market. In turn, important legislative initiatives soon followed, including the now nearly universal liability limiting charter provisions authorized by Delaware General Corporation Law § 102(b)(7).Not surprisingly, the case generated great controversy and, in fact, continues to do so. Did the Trans Union board of directors actually deserve the criticism heaped upon it by the Delaware Supreme Court? Does the Court's decision actually deserve the criticism heaped upon it by most commentators? This essay provides the back story to this remarkable decision and concludes that the gist of the decision is sound.
Memory consolidation: Probit analysis of retrograde-amnesia data

Probit analysis of retrograde-amnesia data reveals a normal distribution of memory indicant to the logarithm of the consolidation interval. The probit regression lines of three comparable experiments in rats have similar slopes. Conflicts in published consolidation times may arise from differences in learning strengths and artifacts of data handling. Consolidation half-time is proposed to replace consolidation time.
The relationship between pupil size and recognition threshold

Words representing a broad range of emotional connotation (taboo, pleasant, and unpleasant) were presented both pupilometricatly and tachistoseopically to college students. As predicted, a statistically significant negative correlation was obtained between pupil diameter and recognition thresholds of the words. The results were interpreted as offering tentative support of the notion that the pupil response to emotional stimuli is the mechanism of perceptual defense and vigilance.
Identification of volatiles from extracted commercial tuna oil with a high docosahexaenoic acid content

Steam-distilled volatiles from the extracted oil of cooked tuna fish were fractionated and identified by g.c.–m.s. There were 64 compounds identified in the oxygenated fraction and 62 in the hydrocarbon fraction. The hydrocarbon fraction was found to have an unusually low odour threshold of 5.0 parts/109 (in water) and 3.75 parts/109 when a solvent correction factor was applied. As expected, the odour threshold of the oxygenated fraction was much lower (0.6 parts/109 and 0.51 parts/109 when corrected).
Cell-Specific Phosphorylation of Zfhep Transcription Factor

Zinc finger homeodomain enhancer-binding protein (Zfhep/Zfhx1a) is a transcription factor essential for immune system development, skeletal patterning, and life. Regulation of the interleukin-2 gene in T cells has been suggested to depend on post-translational processing of Zfhep, however, no modifications of Zfhep are known. Here we demonstrate that Zfhep is present in both hyperphosphorylated and hypophosphorylated forms. Western blot analysis demonstrates two forms of Zfhep with different mobilities. Differences in phosphorylation are sufficient to explain the difference in mobilities. Zfhep is primarily phosphorylated on Ser and Thr residues since PP2A dephosphorylates the slower mobility band. Treatment of nuclear extract with O-GlcNAcase did not detect O-linked sugar. Importantly, post-translational processing is cell-specific. Doublets of Zfhep were detected in five cell lines, whereas 6 cell lines contain only, or predominantly, non-phosphorylated Zfhep, and Saos-2 cells contain predominantly the phosphorylated form. These data provide the first demonstration that Zfhep is post-translationally modified.
Neoplastic plasma cells mimic mature neutrophils in plasma cell myeloma with t(11;14)(q13;q32)

![Figure][1] A 48-year-old man with a history of diabetes was found to have an elevated serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) level (8.6 g/dL) during a routine blood workup. Further laboratory study and bone marrow biopsy confirmed IgG-κ type plasma cell myeloma. The patient underwent therapy with
A worst-case comparison between temporal difference and residual gradient with linear function approximation

Residual gradient (RG) was proposed as an alternative to TD(0) for policy evaluation when function approximation is used, but there exists little formal analysis comparing them except in very limited cases. This paper employs techniques from online learning of linear functions and provides a worst-case (non-probabilistic) analysis to compare these two types of algorithms when linear function approximation is used. No statistical assumptions are made on the sequence of observations, so the analysis applies to non-Markovian and even adversarial domains as well. In particular, our results suggest that RG may result in smaller temporal differences, while TD(0) is more likely to yield smaller prediction errors. These phenomena can be observed even in two simple Markov chain examples that are non-adversarial.
Early and late global and regional left ventricular function after experimental transmural myocardial infarction: relationships of regional wall motion, wall thickening, and global performance.

Abstract Experimental myocardial infarction of the posterolateral wall of the left ventricle was produced in dogs by injecting 80 μm microspheres into the left circumflex coronary artery (1) to determine changes in regional myocardial function after infarction, (2) to examine how the changes in regional myocardial function relate to the changes in global left ventricular function, and (3) to examine the relationship between regional wall motion and wall thickening after myocardial infarction. Serial measurements of global ventricular and regional myocardial function were made in six dogs before and during 20 days after infarction, with the use of M-mode echocardiography and chronic Swan-Ganz catheter impiantation. One hour after infarction, stroke volume index had decreased 49% from baseline, percent fractional shortening had decreased 52%, lateral wall motion had decreased 80%, and lateral wall thickening had decreased 100%. By 6 days after infarction, stroke volume index had increased 41% from its low point, percent fractional shortening had increased 34%, and lateral wall motion had increased 100% toward but not to baseline. Lateral wall thickening did not return following infarction. Peak and end-systolic circumferential wall stresses and systemic arterial blood pressure remained stable. End-systolic diameter increased acutely (36%) after infarction and did not change during the 20-day time period, while end-diastolic diameter gradually increased, resulting in the increase in percent fractional shortening. In conclusion, after posterolateral wall infarction, wall motion can return without an improvement in regional myocardial function, presumably because the infarcted region stiffens, allowing it to be pulled inward. Global left ventricular performance improves because of left ventricular dilation and improved wall motion. Wall thickening appears to be a more specific measurement for assessing chronic changes in regional contractile function than wall motion.
The Glass‐Steagall Banking Act ‐ “its demise”

The purpose of this research is to analyse the Glass‐Steagall Banking Act and the congressional movement to repeal same. Reviews the outcome and ramifications of the Banking Act.
Microscopic and macroscopic aspects of fracture in lithium-containing aluminum alloys

Abstract The effects of alloy composition and aging treatment on plane strain fracture initiation toughness (Klc, Jlc) and crack growth resistance (characterized by the tearing modulus, TR) were investigated in high purity alloys belonging to the Al-Li-Cu-Zr system. The Li Cu ratio (expressed in terms of atomic fractions) was varied from 2.2 to 25.2 and in each of these alloys, microstructures spanning the very underaged to the severely overaged conditions were studied. In peak-aged and over-aged alloys of higher lithium content, intergranular fracture arising from voids initiated around grain boundary particles dictates fracture initiation toughness and crack growth resistance. In such cases, both Klc and TR are insensitive to aging beyond the peak strength. When the amount of grain boundary precipitates is limited, the existence of ordered δ′ (Al3Li) particles in the matrix promotes intense slip planarity. While there are reports of experimental evidence indicating a detrimental effect of planar slip on fracture toughness upon artificial aging, there is also a concomitant beneficial (geometrical) effect on crack growth due to severe bifurcation of the crack during quasi-static fracture. We demonstrate with the aid of branched crack models that such bifurcation can account for an important part of the microstructural effects on fracture toughness in some underaged alloys. The magnitude of microstructurally-influenced crack deflection is systematically correlated with the volume fraction of the precipitates using quantitative transmission electron microscopy. It is shown that microstructural characteristics, which are generally considered undesirable for fracture initiation toughness, can in fact lead to marked improvements in the tearing modulus. We rationalize such results based on the observed variations in crack path. In order to separate out the individual effects of Li and Cu and to address some key issues pertinent to the micromechanisms of failure, fracture experiments have also been performed in a high purity Al-3 wt% Li alloy containing only Mn (used for grain size control). Furthermore, results of heat treatments designed to produce microstructural reversion are discussed to identify the individual contributions to fracture from matrix deformation and grain boundary failure. An attempt is made to present, as quantitatively as possible, an overall mechanistic perspective on fracture initiation toughness and crack growth resistance in lithium-containing aluminum alloys.
Binding proteins for mRNA localization and local translation, and their dysfunction in genetic neurological disease

Neurons utilize mRNA transport and local translation as a means to influence development and plasticity. The molecular mechanisms for this mRNA sorting involve the recognition of cis-acting sequences by distinct mRNA binding proteins that have a dual role, acting in both mRNA transport and translational regulation. Other proteins play a part in the assembly of messenger ribonucleoprotein complexes into transport granules. mRNA binding proteins are crucial targets of phosphorylation signals that regulate local translation. Fragile X syndrome and spinal muscular atrophy have emerged as two genetic neurological diseases that could result, in part, from impaired assembly, localization, and translational regulation of these messenger ribonucleoproteins.
Modeling and Design of Piezoelectric Actuators for Fluid Flow Control

A theoretical and experimental investigation into the modeling and design of piezoelectric flap actuators is described. The motivation for this study is to develop design tools for piezoelectric actuators in active flow control systems. In line with this goal, structural dynamic models of varying complexity must first be assessed. Theoretical modeling of the flaps is carried out using finite element analysis. For comparison, a companion experimental parametric study is executed in which ten otherwise identical piezo flaps with varying piezo patch sizes are fabricated in the Dynamics and Controls Laboratory at the University of Florida. The flaps are characterized using a laser displacement sensor and a scanning laser vibrometer to obtain the frequency response functions between the input voltage signal and the tip displacement and velocity of the flaps. The DC response and natural frequency of the flaps are extracted from the frequency response functions, and these are compared with the theoretical values.
Challenges of Vessel General Permit

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued the Vessel General Permit (VGP) for discharges incidental to the normal operation of vessels on February 5, 2009, under the Clean Water Act. This permit set forth requirements for most vessel discharges within 3 nautical miles of the U.S. shore. The requirements include filing for a notice of intent, meeting VGP effluent limits, inspecting and monitoring, record keeping, and reporting. To understand the impact of this permit, data were solicited from EPA. On the basis of the results of the analyzed data and discussion with individuals from the maritime industry and various government agencies, this paper discusses five aspects of challenges that the VGP may encounter: EPA's roles, states' additional requirements, onshore facilities, compliance issues, and economic impact.
Measuring long-range carrier diffusion across multiple grains in polycrystalline semiconductors by photoluminescence imaging.

Understanding the role of defects on semiconductor carrier transport should help improve their performance in devices. Using photoluminescence techniques, Alberi et al. image the carrier diffusion in polycrystalline CdTe and find that long-range transport is mediated by the distribution of defect states.
Biomass losses during harvest and storage of switchgrass

Abstract Estimates of dry matter losses during harvest and storage of herbaceous biomass are needed to determine harvest efficiency and net biomass yield. Losses of switchgrass ( Panicum virgatum L.) biomass stored in large round bales as affected by protected and unprotected conditions in three experiments during 1992 to 1995. We also measured the losses of dry matter (DM) during the harvesting operation each year and determined the quantity and quality of runoff water from stored bales during one year. In Experiment 1, “Alamo” switchgrass was harvested in August 1992 and stored in 275 kg bales unprotected outside on a grass sod for six months. In Experiments 2 and 3, switchgrass was harvested in November of 1993 and 1994, respectively, and stored in 370 kg bales for one year inside on concrete, outside on a grass sod unprotected from the elements, or outside on a gravel pad. In each experiment, the biomass was field dried to 11 to 19% moisture and baled. The bales were weighed at the beginning and end of the storage period to determine DM losses. In Experiment 1, DM losses during six months of storage were 13% of the original bale dry weight. In Experiments 2 and 3, there were no differences ( P > 0.05) in DM losses (average of 5%) among outside treatments during the 12 months of storage. There were no biomass losses for bales stored inside in Experiment 2; however, there was a 2% loss in Experiment 3. Losses of DM during baling ranged from 1 to 5% depending on moisture concentration in the biomass at baling. Larger losses were associated with drier biomass, presumably because of more shattering. Quality and quantity of runoff water from bales were not different ( P > 0.05) from runoff water of control plots.