cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A strategy for the identification of candidate genes for alcohol-related phenotypes and other human disorders using rapid polymerase chain reaction mapping of gene-based sequence-tagged sites

We describe a method for the rapid identification and mapping of human genes, including those possibly contributing to disease and alcohol-related phenotypes. New human genes are identified from cDNA libraries through single-pass sequencing into the 3' untranslated (3'UT) regions of human brain cDNAs. Primers derived from the 3'UT region sequences [representing gene-based, sequence-tagged sites (STSs)] are used for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analyses of the CEPH megabase insert yeast artificial chromosome (YAC) DNA pools. With this approach, approximately 18,000 megabase YACs can be screened and a single YAC identified using only 52 PCR reactions. The YAC localization in conjunction with other mapping techniques, such as PCR mapping to human chromosomes using somatic cell hybrids, allows identification of chromosomal band locations. In this manner, each gene can be associated with its own STS, which in turn specifies both a corresponding genomic clone and specific location in the genome. These locations can be compared with the purported locations of disease genes. The locations of the STSs can also be compared with those of Quantitative Trait Loci implicated for quantitative traits (e.g., alcohol-related phenotypes) on the basis of synteny between the mouse and human genes. Using this strategy, we found candidates for 78 human disease/syndrome genes among the first 220 genes mapped.
Transfer of Structural Elements from Compact to Extended States in Unsolvated Ubiquitin

Multidimensional ion mobility spectrometry techniques (IMS-IMS and IMS-IMS-IMS) combined with mass spectrometry are used to study structural transitions of ubiquitin ions in the gas phase. It is possible to select and activate narrow distributions of compact and partially folded conformation types and examine new distributions of structures that are formed. Different compact conformations unfold, producing a range of new partially folded states and three resolvable peaks associated with elongated conformers. Under gentle activation conditions, the final populations of the three elongated forms depend on the initial structures of the selected ions. This requires that some memory of the compact state (most likely secondary structure) is preserved along the unfolding pathway. Activation of selected, partially folded intermediates (formed from specific compact states) leads to elongated state populations that are consistent with the initial selected compact formevidence that intermediates not only retain elem...
Expression of mRNA for a newly identified Pax5 exon is reduced in multiple myeloma

Pax5 is a transcription factor that is critical in the bone marrow for differentiation and proliferation of B cells until the plasma cell stage. In Pax5−/− mice, B-cell development stalls at the pro-B-cell stage. Messenger RNA profiles of alternatively spliced isoforms of Pax5 in bone marrow frequently differ between multiple myeloma (MM) patients and healthy donors. We sought to determine if Pax5 mRNA profiles also differed in blood and unexpectedly detected the presence of a previously unreported exon that alters the amino acid code for the transactivating domain of Pax5 in CD138− B cells. This unique exon escapes detection by conventional analyses of RT-PCR products and may serve as a prototype for other exons, in other genes, that escape RT-PCR detection. Eight percent of tested human subjects were heterozygous for an allele with a nonsynonymous nucleotide substitution in the new exon, and one MM patient was homozygotic for this base difference. Subsequent analysis of plasma and B-cell populations from bone marrow revealed a markedly reduced mRNA expression of the new isoform in cells from MM patients when compared to cells from normal subjects.
The Noisy Ceramic Hip: Is Component Malpositioning the Cause?

Noisy ceramics bearing surfaces are a recently recognized problem in total hip arthroplasty. Component malposition as a potential cause has been proposed. Squeaking occurred in 28 (2.7%) of 999 patients undergoing ceramic on ceramic total hip arthroplasty at our institution. Patients were matched, in a 1:2 ratio by anthropometric and demographic variables and also prosthesis size and type. The acetabular position was measured using radiographs and computed tomography. There was no statistically significant difference in cup inclination (P = .25) or version (P = .38) between groups. Four hips that have been revised were available for retrieval analysis. Stripe wear and metal transfer to ceramic components were observed. Etiology of squeaking ceramic total hip arthroplasty remains elusive. Although malposition could be an important contributing factor, the latter cannot be the sole reason based on our findings. Further investigation to elucidate the etiology is warranted.
Regulation of the Ribosome–Membrane Junction at Early Stages of Presecretory Protein Translocation in the Mammalian Endoplasmic Reticulum

A series of fusion protein constructs were designed to investigate the contribution of secretory nascent chains to regulation of the ribosome-membrane junction in the mammalian endoplasmic reticulum. As a component of these studies, the membrane topology of the signal sequence was determined at stages of protein translocation immediately after targeting and before signal sequence cleavage. Truncated translation products were used to delimit the analysis to defined stages of translocation. In a study of secretory protein precursors, formation of a protease-resistant ribosome-membrane junction, currently thought to define the pathway of the translocating nascent chain, was observed to be precursor- and stage-dependent. Analysis of the binding of early intermediates indicated that the nascent chain was bound to the membrane independent of the ribosome, and that the binding was predominately electrostatic. The membrane topology of the signal sequence was determined as a function of the stage of translocation, and was found to be identical for all assayed intermediates. Unexpectedly, the hydrophobic core of the signal sequence was observed to be accessible to the cytosolic face of the membrane at stages of translocation immediately after targeting as well as stages before signal sequence cleavage. Removal of the ribosome from bound intermediates did not disrupt subsequent translocation, suggesting that the active state of the protein-conducting channel is maintained in the absence of the bound ribosome. A model describing a potential mode of regulation of the ribosome-membrane junction by the nascent chain is presented.
Premalignant conditions of bone

The etiology of most malignant bone tumors is poorly understood, and most bone malignancies are believed to arise de novo. Nevertheless, a small number of malignant bone tumors arise in recognizable benign precursors, and these lesions may be may be divided into three conceptual categories: diseases with documented predisposition to malignant bone tumors; sporadic benign tumors with a known risk for secondary malignancy; and postradiation malignant tumors (Table ​(Table1).1). The following review attempts to summarize the more common entities in each category with an emphasis on clinical manifestations and pathological findings. Table 1 Premalignant conditions of bone Congenital syndromes associated with bone tumors A number of inherited conditions have been identified that predispose the affected individual to malignant bone tumors, typically osteosarcoma (Table ​(Table2).2). In general, inherited susceptibility accounts for a small number of sarcomas in most series. For example, at the Mayo Clinic, we identified only two examples each of osteosarcoma arising in the context of familial retinoblastoma, Rothmund-Thompson syndrome, and Bloom syndrome (2/1952, 0.1%). Although rare, the molecular mechanisms of the inherited syndromes may parallel the mechanisms of the more common sporadic osteosarcomas. Although a complete review of the genetic mechanisms for all of these syndromes is beyond the scope of this article, a few unifying points are discussed. Table 2 Syndromes associated with bone sarcomas Werner, Rothmund-Thompson, and Bloom syndromes all present with characteristic cutaneous findings during childhood and a predisposition for high-grade osteosarcoma, often at unusual locations, such as the patella. Although each of these syndromes maps to a unique genetic locus, the gene products share significant sequence homology. The latter finding is intriguing given the clinical similarities between the syndromes. Osteosarcoma is typically a diagnosis of childhood among the congenital syndromes. In contrast, chondrosarcoma presenting as part of an inherited syndrome does so late in adult life and is discussed in the context of specific precursor lesions below.
Carbonic anhydrase II-based metal ion sensing: Advances and new perspectives.

Carbonic anhydrases are archetypical zinc metalloenzymes and as such, they have been developed as the recognition element of a family of fluorescent indicators (sensors) to detect metal ions, particularly Zn2+ and Cu2+. Subtle modification of the structure of human carbonic anhydrase II isozyme (CAII) alters the selectivity, sensitivity, and response time for these sensors. Sensors using CAII variants coupled with zinc-dependent fluorescent ligands demonstrate picomolar sensitivity, unmatched selectivity, ratiometric fluorescence signal, and near diffusion-controlled response times. Recently, these sensors have been applied to measuring the readily exchangeable concentrations of zinc in the cytosol and nucleus of mammalian tissue culture cells and concentrations of free Cu2+ in seawater.
The Microwave Spectrum, Structure and Nuclear Quadrupole Coupling Constants for Stibabenzene

The microwave spectrum of 121.SbCsHs, 123~SbCsH, p-dideutero 121-SbCbH3Dz and 123.SbCjHaDz has been assigned in the region 26.5-40.0 GHz. The respective rotational constants and uncertainties are: A = 4512.69 f 0.42, B = 1738.00 f 0.01, C = 1254.51 f 0.01; A = 4512.84 f 0.30, B = 1729.80 f 0.01, C = 1250.22 f 0.01; A = 4176.18 f 0.33, B = 1660.94 f 0.01, C = 1188.15 f 0.01; A = 4176.60 f 0.61, B = 1652.94 f 0.03, C = 1184.03 f 0.03 (in MHz units). The structure is found to be planar, CZ,, in symmetry. The d(Sb-C) = 2.050 f 0.005 i and LCSbC = 92.9” f 1.0”. The nuclear quadrupole coupling constants for the 121 and 123 antimony isotopes are x,,,, = 456.4 f 4.1 MHz , YJ = 0.396 f 0.008, and x.~ = 583.00 f 5.3 MHz, n = 0.399 f 0.008, respectively. Several alternate techniques using the coupling constants as data support a o-donating property for antimony.
Libraries as local database producers

Sale of citations retrieved from bibliographic database services began more than a decade ago. Data as well as literature citations were later made available from the same companies. Recently, other information vendors have entered the market and offered databases on such things as automobiles for sale or barter exchange of skills.
Interpenetrating polymer networks derived from silylated soybean oil and polydimethylsiloxane

A series of interpenetrating polymer networks (IPNs) was prepared using various concentrations of silylated soybean oil and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) that were cross linked with inorganic silicates. This series of IPNs was prepared from emulsions of silylated soybean oil and PDMS together with colloidal silica and dioctyltin dilaurate catalyst at pH 10. Under these conditions, water soluble silicates reacted with silanols in the oil phase and formed intraparticle siloxane cross links. Upon casting films and evaporation of the water, additional interparticle cross linking were obtained between the coagulating particles to produce entangled networks of soybean oil and PDMS that were further reinforced by fine silica particles. The morphology revealed intimate mixing of the two immiscible components. The mechanical properties depended on the ratio of the soft, flexible PDMS phase and the rigid, brittle cross linked silylated soybean oil phase. These IPNs can be used as high release liners, low friction materials, or as a general protective coating. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 2479–2486, 2013
Application of microscopic techniques to pigment manufacture and performance in fluid inks

Abstract A number of physicochemical techniques including transmission electron microscopy, optical microscopy, densitometry, X-ray diffraction and surface area determinations were used in the study of organic pigment yellows in correlation with their performance characteristics in fluid inks. The pigment chosen for this study was Diarylide Yellow, CI Pigment Yellow 14, which is widely used in nitrocellulose-polyamide alcohol flexographic inks. Transmission electron microscopy was employed to obtain the particle size and shape of several preparations of the pigment (particle size distributions and average particle diameters). Crystallite size and average particle diameters were determined by X-ray diffraction line broadening and surface area techniques, respectively. Optical microscopy and densitometry were utilized to study properties of the flexographic ink films such as transparency and strength. The results show the significant effect on particle size caused by process variables in pigment manufacture such as drying conditions and use of additives such as solvents and surfactants. Variations in particle size are in turn related to differences in strength and transparency exhibited by the corresponding ink films.
The distribution of colloidal and dissolved organic carbon in the Gulf of Mexico

Abstract Cross-flow ultrafiltration techniques have been used to extract colloidal organic carbon (COC) from seawater and to investigate different molecular weight fractions of dissolved organic carbon (DOC). Using a high-temperature catalytic oxidation (HTCO) method, DOC and COC of seawater in the Gulf of Mexico were measured during a R/V Gyre cruise in June 1992. DOC concentrations in surface water varied from 131 μM at a near-shore station (water depth ∼ 20 m) to 83 μM at an off-shore station (water depth ∼ 1550 m). DOC concentrations show statistically significant correlations with apparent oxygen utilization (AOU), as well as with temperature. However, as a upper limit, only 20–30% of the oxygen consumption could be due to dissolved organic carbon oxidation. Furthermore, a good correlation between DOC and AOU existed only in the upper water column across the pycnocline, which we ascribed to lateral exchange processes. Water mixing can be quite important in controlling the distribution of DOC and the relationship between DOC and AOU in the water column. Concentrations of COC > 1000 Dalton ranged from 20 to 69 μM, while COC > 10,000 Dalton ranged from 4 to 16 μM in the study area. On average, COC (> 1000 Dalton) comprised about 45% of the initial DOC, and the mass concentration of colloids was > 1 mg l−1. This was one order of magnitude higher than the concentration of suspended particulate matter, and indicates that COC may be an important component of the carbon cycle in the ocean. The relative abundance of COC (both > 1000 and > 10,000 Dalton) decreased from surface water to deep water, not only in terms of concentration but also relative to total DOC. The measurement of molecular weight distributions indicated that ∼ 35% of the initial DOC was in the 1000 –10,000 Dalton fraction, while only about 10% was in the > 10,000 Dalton fraction, leaving approximately 55% in the truly dissolved fraction (i.e.
The stabilizing effect of noise on the dynamics of a Boolean network

Abstract In this paper, we explore both numerically and analytically the robustness of a synchronous Boolean network governed by rule 126 of cellular automata. In particular, we explore whether or not the introduction of noise into the system has any discernable effect on the evolution of the system. This noise is introduced by changing the states of a given number of nodes in the system according to certain rules. New mathematical models are developed for this purpose. We use MATLAB to run the numerical simulations including iterations of the real system and the model, computation of Lyapunov exponents (LyE), and generation of bifurcation diagrams. We provide a more in-depth fixed-point analysis through analytic computations paired with a focus on bifurcations and delay plots to identify the possible attractors. We show that it is possible either to attenuate or to suppress entirely chaos through the introduction of noise and that the perturbed system may exhibit very different long-term behavior than that of the unperturbed system.
The Prednisolone Glucose Tolerance Test in Pregnancy

The response to a prednisolone glucose tolerance test (PGTT) was investigated in 166 pregnant women, divided into control and diabetes-suspect groups. The diabetes-suspect group consisted of pregnant women with a history of a large infant, a family history of diabetes and/or glycosuria during a previous pregnancy. Positive responses by the criteria of Fajans and Conn occurred in 23 per cent of the control group and 44 per cent of the suspect group. After excluding women with abnormal glucose tolerance tests (GTT), the prevalence of positive responses fell to 15 per cent in the control group and 31 per cent in the suspect group. Thirty patients with normal GTT but positive PGTT during pregnancy were studied at varying intervals after delivery. Half of them reverted to normal PGTT. The increased frequency of positive responses to the PGTT in the suspect group suggests that this presumably more rigorous test of islet reserve may permit recognition of suboptimal islet capacity during pregnancy.
The public health crisis of child sexual abuse in low and middle income countries: An integrative review of the literature

Abstract Purpose Theoretical and empirical studies conducted to ascertain the incidence and characteristics of child sexual abuse (CSA) in developing countries around the world are inconsistent and poorly synthesized. In order to prevent and respond to these heinous acts, clinicians and policymakers require a substantive body of evidence on which to base interventions and treatment programs. The purpose of this study is to conduct an integrative review of the literature concerning CSA in non-industrialized nations. Ultimately, this evidence could be used to drive research and policy implementation in this area. Methods An integrative literature review of publications identified through a comprehensive search of five relevant databases (PubMed, CINAHL, EMBase, PsycINFO, and Web of Science) regarding the incidence and characteristics of all forms of child sexual assault in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) since 1980. Independent and collective thematic assessment and analysis was utilized to identify major concepts of the phenomenon. Findings Forty-four articles were identified. These represented 32 separate low or middle-income countries. More studies were identified in low-income countries, and there was a disproportional distribution of studies conducted on regions of the world. CSA has been identified at all levels of society in nearly every region and continent of the world. It is being falsely perceived as a new phenomenon in some developing countries, most likely as a result of increases in CSA reporting. Researching and discussing CSA is difficult because of the sensitive and taboo nature of the topic. Four major themes emerged including difficulty of accurate measurement, barriers to reporting, barriers to justice, and the false perception of CSA as a new phenomenon. Themes of early marriage, human trafficking, sexual coercion and forced first sex, and males as victims have been identified as characteristics and topics placing individuals at risk for CSA. Poverty and its resultant social or family strain are exacerbating factors to CSA. Conclusions There is inadequate representation of CSA research in LMICs, and an increasing awareness that sexual abuse of children is an endemic threat to the health and safety of children worldwide. This review lays the foundation for an array of further areas of analysis to explore the expanse of unanswered questions that remain regarding the phenomena of CSA in low and middle-income countries. Clinical relevance Healthcare workers hold a unique position and responsibility for identifying and responding to CSA.
Locations of the Regulatory Sites for Isocitrate Dehydrogenase Kinase/Phosphatase

Isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH)(1) of Escherichia coli is regulated by a bifunctional protein, IDH kinase/phosphatase. In this paper, we demonstrate that the effectors controlling these activities belong to two distinct classes that differ in mechanism and in the locations of their binding sites. NADPH and isocitrate are representative members of one of these effector classes. NADPH inhibits both IDH kinase and IDH phosphatase, whereas isocitrate inhibits only IDH kinase. Isocitrate can "activate" IDH phosphatase by reversing product inhibition by dephospho-IDH. Mutations in icd, which encodes IDH, had parallel effects on the binding of these ligands to the IDH active site and on their effects on IDH kinase and phosphatase, indicating that these ligands regulate IDH kinase/phosphatase through the IDH active site. Kinetic analyses suggested that isocitrate and NADPH prevent formation of the complex between IDH kinase/phosphatase and its protein substrate. AMP, 3-phosphoglycerate, and pyruvate represent a class of regulatory ligands that is distinct from that which includes isocitrate and NADPH. These ligands bind directly to IDH kinase/phosphatase, a conclusion which is supported by the observation that they inhibit the IDH-independent ATPase activity of this enzyme. These effector classes can also be distinguished by the observation that mutant derivatives of IDH kinase/phosphatase expressed from aceK3 and aceK4 exhibited dramatic changes in their responses to AMP, 3-phosphoglycerate, and pyruvate but not to NADPH and isocitrate.
The Major G-Quadruplex Formed in the Human Platelet-Derived Growth Factor Receptor β Promoter Adopts a Novel Broken-Strand Structure in K+ Solution

Overexpression of platelet-derived growth factor receptor β (PDGFR-β) has been associated with cancers and vascular and fibrotic disorders. PDGFR-β has become an attractive target for the treatment of cancers and fibrotic disorders. DNA G-quadruplexes formed in the GC-rich nuclease hypersensitivity element of the human PDGFR-β gene promoter have been found to inhibit PDGFR-β transcriptional activity. Here we determined the major G-quadruplex formed in the PDGFR-β promoter. Instead of using four continuous runs with three or more guanines, this G-quadruplex adopts a novel folding with a broken G-strand to form a primarily parallel-stranded intramolecular structure with three 1 nucleotide (nt) double-chain-reversal loops and one additional lateral loop. The novel folding of the PDGFR-β promoter G-quadruplex emphasizes the robustness of parallel-stranded structural motifs with a 1 nt loop. Considering recent progress on G-quadruplexes formed in gene-promoter sequences, we suggest the 1 nt looped G(i)NG(j) motif may have been evolutionarily selected to serve as a stable foundation upon which the promoter G-quadruplexes can build. The novel folding of the PDGFR-β promoter G-quadruplex may be attractive for small-molecule drugs that specifically target this secondary structure and modulate PDGFR-β gene expression.
Modification of a latex glove for the safe endoscopic removal of a sharp gastric foreign body.

The endoscopic removal of sharp foreign objects from the upper GI tract is a challenge. A latex protector hood (Ballard Medical Products, Draper, Utah) exists as a commercially available device for retrieving sharp objects. The following is a case report of the safe removal of a sharp foreign object by a similar technique using a modification of a widely available latex orthopedic glove (Maxxus, Arlington, Tex.).
Successional events following simazine application

Successional events of aquatic vegetation in a farm pond were studied, after application of simazine. After decay of the higher plants, phytoplankton did not dominate, instead herbicide-resistant seeds and subsurface structures of Potamogeton foliosus developed. Benthic algae covered and stabilized the bottom. Following stabilization, the water cleared and Chara vulgaris growth resumed wherever the substrate was firm.
Higher hydrocarbon combustion 1. Primary process in fuel-rich acetylene combustion

Abstract Computational results are presented supporting the suggestion that the primary process in fuel-rich acetylene combustion is reaction with OH to yield ketene, and that acetylene does not decay, primarily, through the methane family. The methodology for modeling higher hydrocarbon decay is discussed.
Diode pumped holmium, thulium and erbium lasers between 2 and 3 micrometers operating cw at room temperature

Diode-pumped cw lasers operating between 2 and 3 m in the heavy rare-earth activator ions are reviewed. In Ho,Tm:YAG we demonstrated high efficiency using Tm as the sensitizer ion, which absorbed the pump radiation. This is followed by a cross-relaxation process, which allows two excited Tm ions to be produced from one absorbed photon. There is rapid energy migration among the Tm ions, followed by energy transfer to the Ho ion. The 2 pm laser action is to a level 460 cm1 above the ground state. In Tm,Ho:YLF we demonstrated cw cascade laser emission at 2.31 and 2.08 rim. Above threshold for both transitions, two infrared photons are produced for each absorbed pump photon. The theoretical slope efficiency ofthis system is 72.3% for pumping at 0.791 pm. In Er:YLF, cw laser emission at 2.8 im with a 10% slope efficiencywas demonstrated. The laser transition is normally self-terminating, but an upconversion process, which depopulates the lower laser level and populates the upper laser level, allows this transition to operate in a cw mode.
Spiral waves in normal isolated ventricular muscle

Rotating waves of electrical activity may be observed in small (20 × 20 × < 1 mm) pieces of normal ventricular epicardial muscle from the sheep heart. Application of an appropriately timed voltage gradient perpendicular to the wake of a quasiplanar wavefront gives rise to sustained vortex-like reentry which may last indefinitely, unless another stimulus of appropriate characteristics and timing is applied to terminate the arrhythmia. Once established, the vortex pivots at a frequency of 5 to 7 Hz around a small elongated core (≈ 2 by 4 mm) which only develops small electrotonically mediated depolarizations. Imaging of the entire course of local activation and recovery may be accomplished with high temporal and spatial resolution using the voltage-sensitive dye di-4-ANEPPS and a 10 x 10 photodiode array system focused onto the preparation. Two- and three-dimensional reconstructions of the optical images generated by the local fluorescence response to the circulating waves provide accurate maps of the distribution of voltage across most of the surface of the tissue and gives insight into the dynamics and mechanisms of initiation, maintenance and termination of the arrhythmia. The overall results suggest that neither dispersion of action potential duration (APD) nor tissue anisotropy are essential for the induction or maintenance of reentry. A transient nonuniformity in refractoriness created by the appropriately timed voltage gradient is sufficient to establish the circulating activity. Anisotropy and dispersion of APD serve only to produce a nonuniform topographical distribution of conduction velocity and excitable gap (i.e., that interval during which part of the circuit is excitable). Annihilation of the reentry by an appropriately timed stimulus is the result of collision of the reentrant wavefront with the stimulus-induced excitation wave propagating in the opposite direction. These results may be useful in the understanding of the mechanisms of ventricular tachycardia and may have important implications in the development of new and more specific antiarrhythmic therapies.
Endogenous ADP-ribosylation of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase that is not regulated by nitric oxide in Dictyostelium discoideum.

Abstract A 41,000 Mr cytosolic protein (p41) in Dictyostelium discoideum was shown to be modified by ADP-ribosylation that was not regulated by nitric oxide (NO). This endogenous ADP-riboxylation was optimal at conditions distinct from those optimal for the NO-stimulated ADP-ribosylation of p41. These two activities were also differentially sensitive to reducing agents and modified different amino acids. The addition of haemoglobin, which sequesters NO, and 3 the NO synthase inhibitors failed to block the endogenous ADP-ribosylation. P41 was purified to homogeneity. The N-terminal sequence of the purified protein was shown to be highly homologous to glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH). Both endogenous and NO-stimulated activities ADP-ribosylated three isoforms of the protein, with pI values of 6.6., 6.8 and 7.0. In each case, the isoform with pI 6.8 was preferentially modified. Experiments using purified GAPDH indicate that both the endogenous and NO-stimulated ADP-ribosylation are self-catalysed modifications.
Do different production environments justify separate maize breeding programs

Different production environments are being adopted by farmers. Therefore, allocation of resources to breeding research that targets different production environments should be continuously assessed. Agronomists should conduct extensive hybrid × production environment interaction research before recommending breeders to conduct separate breeding programs for each production environment. The lack of interactions between genotypes and production environments (e.g., tillage) would not justify conducting separate breeding programs and duplicating breeding resources. On the other hand, separate breeding programs would be necessary if cultivar rankings differ. The purpose of this paper is to review the available literature on experiments designed to test genotype × tillage interactions (GT) in maize (Zeamays L.). No-till system (NT) and conventional till system (CT) were utilized as examples of different production environments. The majority of experiments reviewed showed that there is no need to develop cultivars specific to NT because the cultivars that were developed under CT systems performed relatively the same under NT. The magnitude of GT interactions found was very small to expect better cultivars from breeding under NT. Additional research is needed to confirm these conclusions, especially when applied to other production environments (e.g., development of cultivars under organic conditions). Scientists should evaluate genotype by tillage interactions before investing additional resources in breeding for those specific target environments. Top yielding genotypes seem be consistent across years, locations, inputs; and most of the present evidence suggests that breeding for specific till systems is not necessary.
Interactions of engineered nanomaterials in physiological media and implications for in vitro dosimetry

In vitro toxicity assays are efficient and inexpensive tools for screening the increasing number of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) entering the consumer market. However, the data produced by in vitro studies often vary substantially among different studies and from in vivo data. In part, these discrepancies may be attributable to lack of standardisation in dispersion protocols and inadequate characterisation of particle–media interactions which may affect the particle kinetics and the dose delivered to cells. In this study, a novel approach for preparation of monodisperse, stabilised liquid suspensions is presented and coupled with a numerical model which estimates delivered dose values. Empirically derived material- and media-specific functions are presented for each media–ENM system that can be used to convert administered doses to delivered doses. The interactions of ENMs with a variety of physiologic media were investigated and the importance of this approach was demonstrated by in vitro cytotoxicity assays using THP-1 macrophages.
Stigmatizing Indebtedness: Implications for Labeling Theory

Given the low visibility of indebtedness and normative expectations regarding the use of credit and the accrual of debt, questions arise as to whether or not being unable to manage one's finances responsibly should necessarily lead a person to feel shame. Findings from a study, based on forty-six interviews with members of Debtors Anonymous (DA), exploring the relevance of labeling theory to individual perceptions of one's indebtedness as shameful are presented. Shame is revealed to be a key element in the labeling process. How stigmatized labels arise in interaction, how such labels affect a person's thoughts, feelings, and actions, and how gender affects labeling experiences are discussed. Insights into the interconnections between labeling and shame show the labeling process to be considerably more complex than suggested in the original version of labeling theory.
Alexander's Disease: Clinical, Pathologic, and Genetic Features

Alexander's disease, a rare and fatal disorder of the central nervous system, most commonly affects infants and young children but can also occur in older children and sometimes adults. In infants and young children, it causes developmental delay, psychomotor retardation, paraparesis, feeding problems, usually megalencephaly, often seizures, and sometimes hydrocephalus. Juvenile cases often do not have megalencephaly and tend to have predominant pseudobulbar and bulbar signs. In both groups, characteristic magnetic resonance imaging findings have been described. In adult cases, the signs are variable, can resemble multiple sclerosis, and might include palatal myoclonus. In all cases, the examination of brain tissue shows the presence of widely distributed Rosenthal fibers. Almost all cases have recently been found to have a heterozygous, missense, point mutation in the gene for glial fibrillary acidic protein, which provides a new diagnostic tool. In most cases, the mutation appears to occur de novo, not being present in either parent, but some adult cases are familial.
Phonetic diversity, statistical learning, and acquisition of phonology

In learning to perceive and produce speech, children master complex language-specific patterns. Daunting language-specific variation is found both in the segmental domain and in the domain of prosody and intonation. This article reviews the challenges posed by results in phonetic typology and sociolinguistics for the theory of language acquisition. It argues that categories are initiated bottom-up from statistical modes in use of the phonetic space, and sketches how exemplar theory can be used to model the updating of categories once they are initiated. It also argues that bottom-up initiation of categories is successful thanks to the perception-production loop operating in the speech community. The behavior of this loop means that the superficial statistical properties of speech available to the infant indirectly reflect the contrastiveness and discriminability of categories in the adult grammar. The article also argues that the developing system is refined using internal feedback from type statistics over the lexicon, once the lexicon is well-developed. The application of type statistics to a system initiated with surface statistics does not cause a fundamental reorganization of the system. Instead, it exploits confluences across levels of representation which characterize human language and make bootstrapping possible.
Physical and chemical protection in hierarchical soil aggregates regulates soil carbon and nitrogen recovery in restored perennial grasslands

Abstract Stabilization offered by physicochemical protection in hierarchical soil aggregates is critical for building and maintaining soil C and N stocks. However, it is unclear if complex stabilization mechanisms can completely recover when native plant communities are re-established on soils depleted of C and N by agriculture. We isolated particulate organic matter (POM) and silt- and clay-sized fractions from four structurally defined locations within soil collected from an agricultural field, prairies restored for 3–33 years, and a never-cultivated remnant prairie. We used aggregate hierarchy to define our four soil locations: non-aggregated material, free microaggregates, macroaggregates (excluding encapsulated microaggregates), and microaggregates-within-macroaggregates. We found that the duration of linear soil C and N accumulation differed among aggregate-occluded pools in relation to the combined influences of soil mass redistribution and increases in C and N concentrations. Silt in microaggregates isolated from within macroaggregates contributed the greatest quantities of C and N to whole soil, yet reached steady state C and N contents that were only 59% (C) and 56% (N) of those observed in the remnant prairie soil. Although the C and N contents of most pools were still well below the amounts in the reference remnant prairie, the overall distribution of C among pools was similar to the remnant within 33 years of restoration, suggesting that SOM stabilization mechanisms do largely recover in the first decades after cessation of tillage and restoration of the plant community. Thus, the pools that fell short of pre-cultivation C and N contents within the timespan of the chronosequence might continue to build C and N even though they appeared to be at steady state at the time of sampling, possibly because not enough time has passed at the current input rate or because of lags in SOM transfer among pools. We hypothesize that several “transient steady states” could occur in some SOM pools along the way to an overall whole-soil steady state that could take centuries to achieve.
Effects of Altered Food Intake during Pubertal Development in Male and Female Wistar Rats

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is currently validating assays that will be used in a Tier I Screening Battery to detect endocrine disrupting chemicals. A primary concern with the Protocols for the Assessment of Pubertal Development and Thyroid Function in Juvenile Male and Female Rats is that a nonspecific reduction in body weight (BWT) during the exposure period may potentially confound the interpretation of effects on the endocrine endpoints. Wistar rats were underfed 10, 20, 30, or 40% less than the ad libitum food consumed by controls from postnatal days (PNDs) 22 to 42 (females) or PNDs 23 to 53 (males). Terminal BWT of females and males were 2, 4, 12, and 19% and 2, 6, 9, and 19% lower than controls, respectively. In the females, neither the age of pubertal onset nor any of the thyroid hormone endpoints were affected by food restriction (FR) that led to a 12% decrease in BWT. Similarly, none of the male reproductive endpoints examined were altered by FR that led to a 9% BWT decrease. However, decreased triiodothyronine and thyroxin was observed in FR males with a 9% reduced BWT. While these data support the use of the maximum tolerated dose for BWT (10%) for the female protocol, effects on the male thyroid endpoints indicate that a slightly lower limit (<or= 6% BWT loss) may be appropriate for the male pubertal protocol, and in cases where the BWT loss approaches 9-10%, additional studies and/or a weight of evidence approach should be used when interpreting the data for the thyroid endpoints.
Identifying Social Risk via a Clinical Social History Embedded in the Electronic Health Record

Although the link between social determinants and health outcomes is well established, the social history remains poorly integrated into clinical care processes. This study's purpose was to determine social risk documentation rates among newborns using a new electronic template. A retrospective review of 639 well-infant visits was performed. The authors determined documentation rates for a standardized social history embedded in the clinic electronic health record. Social history completion rates and prevalence of risks were identified. More than 80% of clinicians documented asking at least 1 of 7 questions (mean = 4.5, SD = 2.9). The most commonly asked question was about "making ends meet," and the least common was about personal safety (79% vs 57%, P < .01). Nearly 30% of caregivers reported at least 1 risk, 11% at least 2 risks. An electronic health record-embedded social history led to documented screening in more than 80% of visits, identifying 30% as having at least 1 social risk.
AGS booster tune meter kickers

The AGS (Alternating Gradient Synchrotron) booster tune meter kicker system consists of two identical kickers for horizontal and vertical tune measurements, and a control unit utilizing a programmable logic controller. The kicker modulators are line-type pulsers. The pulse energy stored in the PFN (pulse forming network) is discharged through a set of matched cables to the load magnet and a matching terminating resistor. Some RC compensation networks are used to obtain the fast rising pulse waveforms. The booster will cover a wide range of revolution frequencies. To cover this wide range, tunes will be measured by kicking the beams with two different pulse lengths. A switch mode power supply with fast command tracking speed is used for PFN charging and enables the kickers to change pulse amplitudes on a pulse-by-pulse basis. The pulse repetition rate can reach up to a maximum of 200 pulses per second (p.p.s.) at 20 kV and 2000 p.p.s. at 2.5 kV. >
Perceived Hotness Affects Behavior of Basketball Players and Coaches

Although "hot hands" in basketball are illusory, the belief in them is so robust that it not only has sparked many debates but may also affect the behavior of players and coaches. On the basis of an entire National Basketball Association season's worth of data, the research reported here shows that even a single successful shot suffices to increase a player's likelihood of taking the next team shot, increase the average distance from which this next shot is taken, decrease the probability that this next shot is successful, and decrease the probability that the coach will replace the player.
Examining the Actions of Organizations in Conflict: Evidence From the Delaware Court of Chancery

We use the interpersonal dispute resolution literature to develop hypotheses regarding how organizations respond to adjudicated conflicts. Our hypotheses were tested with data from disputes litigat...
A 100% Bandwidth Microstrip Antenna with Stable Endfire Radiation Patterns for Phased Array Applications

This paper presents a novel microstrip antenna design with an enhanced impedance bandwidth and stable radiation characteristics. The presented antenna provides more than 100% impedance bandwidth from 5.7 GHz to 17.3 GHz. This wide bandwidth is realized by using multi-resonance radiators of wideband characteristics. The use of multi-resonators not only improves the bandwidth but also results in stable radiation patterns in the entire operating band
Intramural Left Main Coronary Artery Unexpectedly Encountered During Aortic Root Replacement

We present an intramural left main coronary artery, unexpectedly encountered during aortic root replacement in a truncus arteriosus patient. Given the severely limited orifice, we opted to unroof the intramural portion of the left main coronary artery prior to implantation as a button. Until now there have been no reports in the literature describing unroofing an intramural coronary artery prior to reimplantation in an aortic root replacement operation.
Pockets of violence: a study of regional variation in suicide and homicide rates.

The states of America were classified on the basis of the homicide and suicide rates into violent, nonviolent, inwardly violent and outwardly violent. Social differences between these four groups of states were identified. The usefulness of this type of regional analysis was discussed. Language: en
Fish Assemblages of Shoal- and Shoreline-Associated Seagrass Beds in Eastern Gulf of Mexico Estuaries

AbstractAssemblage structure of fishes associated with seagrasses (order Alismatales) is affected by factors such as depth, seagrass coverage, location of seagrass beds, and proximity of seagrass beds to adjacent habitats. Although these relationships have been well explored for small-bodied fishes, few studies have examined seagrass habitat use by large-bodied fishes (>100 mm SL). To examine the effects of habitat characteristics on assemblages of large-bodied fishes, two seagrass habitat types were sampled in three eastern Gulf of Mexico estuaries (2008–2010) with a 183-m haul seine: (1) seagrasses immediately adjacent to shorelines and (2) seagrasses associated with shoals (seagrass beds >100 m from shoreline). Within each estuary, fish density was greater (as much as two times greater) in shoal seagrass beds than in those along shorelines. Fish assemblage structure also differed significantly between the two habitat types. Species that distinguished the seagrass shoreline (e.g., Spot Leiostomus xanthu...
Variable Modulus Materials Based Upon F2MC Reinforced Shape Memory Polymers

The performance of a new variable modulus composite material based upon shape memory polymer (SMP) reinforced with fluidic flexible matrix composite (FMC) tubes is investigated in this research. The new composite material is a unique combination of shape memory polymers acting as the matrix material with reinforcing embedded FMC tubes. The recently developed FMC tubes are small diameter tubes capable of potentially achieving more than three orders of magnitude change in effective stiffness through utilization of anisotropic flexible matrix composite (FMC) tubes, a high bulk modulus internal working fluid, and simple valve control. Similarly shape memory polymers can achieve more than three orders of magnitude change in stiffness through temperature regulation. To investigate the SMP-FMC variable modulus composite material, an analytical model of the SMP-FMC variable stiffness composite material is developed and design studies are performed. The results demonstrate that the new material system can achieve a wider range and greater selection of modulus values than the SMP or FMC systems alone. Experimental results show good agreement with analysis.
A Restrained View of Transformation

In "A Transformative Theory of Religious Freedom: Promoting the Reasons for Rights," Corey Brettschneider argues that the liberal state has the right to try to transform certain beliefs: "it is those beliefs, religious and otherwise, that are openly hostile to or implausibly consistent with the values of equal citizenship that the state should seek to transform" (195).1 This is a strong statement that Brettschneider qualifies in important ways, since he does not believe that state should wantonly seek to transform illiberal beliefs. He argues that when citizens try to impose their religious views on others through legislation that they should be stopped by the Court, and also told why it was wrong to try to do so, which is that it violates the tenets of equal citizenship (193). If being rebuked by the Court results in a transformation of their beliefs, all the better. Further, Brettschneider argues that a religious organization that receives state funds or tax-exempt status must adhere to the principles of equal citizenship. My dispute with Brettschneider is not with the idea of transformation itself, or the relatively uncontroversial idea that some religious groups should not be allowed to impose their views on others. But in cases where imposition is not an issue, we liberals should not be so quick to look to the state to directly transform practices that seem incompatible with equal citizenship. In looking at one notorious case, where Bob Jones University had its tax-exempt status revoked for its racially discriminatory policies (that have since been changed), Brettschneider announces: "What makes Bob Jones's policy subject to transformation is its direct affront to the ideal of equal citizenship. The