cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Exogenous and endogenous control of the annual reproductive cycle in the male golden hamster: participation of the pineal gland.

Testes and accessory sex organs (seminal vesicles and coagulating glands) of hamsters exposed to natural lighting (NL) conditions beginning September 22 underwent complete degeneration by October 31. The following February the testes began to regrow with the regeneration being complete by mid to late March. Associated with the atrophic response of the testes during the winter months was a consistent depression in pituitary prolactin and an inconsistent decrease in pituitary luteinizing hormone levels. If hamsters are pinealectomized prior to their exposure to NL, the sexual organs do not atrophy and the pituitary hormone levels do not drop. Moving hamsters from NL to the long daily photoperiods (light:dark cycles of 14 hrs light and 10 hrs darkness— LD 14:10) of the laboratory near mid winter is followed by regrowth of the gonads and accessory glands. Regeneration of the reproductive system in the spring is not a function of increasing photoperiodic length since if animals are completely deprived of light (by blinding) in February, the gonads still regenerate. When hamsters are exposed to LD 14:10 cycles during the subsequent summer, the return to NL on September 22 is followed by a second involution of the reproductive system. However, if the period of LD 14:10 (the simulated summer) is shortened by ten weeks, the second return to NL does not initiate involution of the reproductive system. During the simulated summer complete light deprivation by blinding is incapable of forcing atrophy of the sexual organs.
The biotransformation of nitroglycerin

Abstract The transformation of nitroglycerin (NG) was accomplished by the formation of 1,2- and 1,3-dinitroglycerin. The dinitrates were resistant to further degradation and appeared as the urinary metabolites after the administration of NG. The dinitroglycerins were less active coronary vasodilators and blood pressure depressants than NG. A heat-stable inhibitor of the spontaneous reaction between NG and glutathione (GSH) was removed by dialysis. The enzyme that catalyzes the NG-GSH reaction was not found in heart but was localized in rat liver soluble fraction and was enhanced by phenobarbital pretreatment.
Miniaturized circular antennas for MIMO communication systems — pattern diversity

This paper evaluates the performance of a miniaturized circular patch antenna demonstrated in [1]. This antenna can be used to realize a 2×2 multiple-input multiple output communication that exploits pattern diversity. Correlation coefficients of orthogonal patterns were calculated and used to evaluate the ergodic capacity of the system.
Posture and the role of vestibular and proprioceptive influences on neocortical, limbic, subcortical and cerebellar EEG activity.

Abstract The effect of posture on EEG data from cortical, subcortical, rhinencephalic and cerebellar structures was tested by spectral analysis. The investigation was performed in 12 cats with chronically implanted electrodes in visual cortex, lateral geniculate body, superior colliculus, midbrain reticular formation, anterior hypothalamus, septum, dorsal and ventral hippocampus, amygdala, caudate nucleus, globus pallidus, putamen, and cerebellar nuclei. EEG records were taken with the animal in prone, supine, and right and left lateral positions. Spectral analyses of prone records indicated peaks in intensity at frequencies between 1 and 4 c/sec in all structures. Following changes in body position, increased power in the lower frequency bands was observed, usually at the same frequencies as characterized the prone position. In the dorsal hippocampus, however, the new spectral peaks appeared at higher frequencies. Bilateral section of the dorsal columns of the spinal cord did not abolish these effects, whereas the section of the vestibular nerves diminished them markedly. Their relationship to orienting reflexes is discussed, in view of major changes induced in hippocampal records. Since these responses were elicited in blindfolded animals, it is concluded that vestibular influxes play a highly important role in orienting responses in the cat.
Electrophysiological studies on a protein fraction (K′) from Mojave rattlesnake (Crotalus scutulatus scutulatus) venom

Abstract The venom of the Mojave rattlesnake, Crotalus scutulatus scutulatus , was fractionated as previously described ( Pattabhiraman and Russell , 1975). Fraction K′ ( C.s.s. Protein K′), having a molecular weight of ca. 20,000 and an ld 50 of 0·03 mg/kg, was studied on the extensor digitorum longus muscle preparation of the frog. The fraction caused a significantly delayed depression of the indirectly elicited end plate potentials, with quantal content and miniature end plate potential frequency falling rapidly between 25 and 50 min after the application of the toxin. The findings indicate a presynaptic site for the action of protein K′.
Flexibility foils filter function: structural limitations on suspension feeding

Suspension feeders rely on filter structures of a variety of forms to capture food particles. Much effort has been devoted to examining the operation of such filters, but mechanistic evaluations have generally represented filter elements with artificially stiff cylinders. We extended this previous work to investigate how bending affects the function of flexible cylindrical filter elements. Scaled models of filters were constructed from materials with elastic moduli comparable to material stiffnesses of invertebrate appendages (1–177 GPa). These models were mounted on a sled to mimic the protrusion of filters away from an animal's body or from the substratum, and were towed through a vat of syrup to generate relative fluid motion at low Reynolds numbers ( Re <10–3, based on cylinder diameter and tow speed). Flow between filter elements was quantified at multiple positions along their lengths, and a hydrodynamic index of filter performance (`leakiness') was calculated. Leakiness generally increased with cylinder Re and distance from the filter base. At higher flexibilities, however, streamwise bending and lateral narrowing of the filter reduced projected area and slowed flow between elements. This effect decreased leakiness and reversed the otherwise monotonic trend for increased leakiness at higher cylinder Re . Additional experiments showed that filters composed of stouter elements were less susceptible to bending but experienced lower leakiness because of their reduced ability to transcend boundary layers formed over surfaces to which they attached. These findings indicate that filter bending can strongly alter the performance of particle capture apparatus in suspension feeders.
Bamboo-dominated forests and pre-Columbian earthwork formations in south-western Amazonia

Aim To determine whether the c. 160,000 km2 patch of bamboo-dominated forests (Guadua spp.) in Amazonia is associated with pre-Columbian earthwork (geoglyph) formation. Location South-western Amazonia. Methods We modelled the distribution of Guadua-dominated forests and geoglyphs with Maxent, which uses occurrence points and a suite of environmental parameters. We compared the modelled distribution of Guadua with mapped distributions derived from remote sensing data, and with the modelled distribution of geoglyphs. Results The modelled Guadua distribution closely fitted previously mapped estimates. Based on our analyses, the best predictors for the distribution of Guadua-dominated forests are temperature seasonality and close proximity to hilly terrain. Distance to bamboo forest and precipitation of the driest quarter were the most significant predictors of geoglyph distributions. Main conclusions This study suggests that the most parsimonious explanation for the association of geoglyphs and bamboo forests in south-western Amazonia is that pre-Columbian people constructed geoglyphs near the edges of the semelparous Guadua forests. After die-off events, the large fuel load of dead vegetation would burn easily, providing a much easier mechanism of forest clearing than was possible in closed-canopy forests. These results highlight the interplay of ancient human activity with observed biogeographical patterns, and suggest that pre-Columbian settlement patterns may reflect the heterogeneity of forest types found within Amazonian rain forests.
Effect of some organic acids in the incubation step on plasma renin activity.

The organic acids potassium hydrogen phthalate (KHphthalate), maleic, citric, acetic, formic, and oxalic were used to adjust the pH of plasma to 5.6 ± 0.2 in the incubation step of the procedure for the determination of plasma renin activity (PRA). When compared to the PRA determined after pH adjustment with hydrochloric acid (HCl), it was found that KHphthalate and maleic acid produced a statistically significant increase in PRA. In comparison to HCI, KHphthalate and maleic acid showed a mean percent difference of 61% and 27% respectively for a one hour incubation; and, 57% and 34% respectively for a three hour incubation.
The response of the equatorial tropospheric ozone to the Madden–Julian Oscillation in TES satellite observations and CAM-chem model simulation

Abstract. The Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO) is the dominant form of the atmospheric intra-seasonal oscillation, manifested by slow eastward movement (about 5 m s−1) of tropical deep convection. This study investigates the MJO's impact on equatorial tropospheric ozone (10° N–10° S) in satellite observations and chemical transport model (CTM) simulations. For the satellite observations, we analyze the Tropospheric Emission Spectrometer (TES) level-2 ozone profile data for the period of January 2004 to June 2009. For the CTM simulations, we run the Community Atmosphere Model with chemistry (CAM-chem) driven by the Goddard Earth Observing System Model, Version 5 (GEOS-5)-analyzed meteorological fields for the same data period as the TES measurements. Our analysis indicates that the behavior of the total tropospheric column (TTC) ozone at the intra-seasonal timescale is different from that of the total column ozone, with the signal in the equatorial region comparable with that in the subtropics. The model-simulated and satellite-measured ozone anomalies agree in their general pattern and amplitude when examined in the vertical cross section (the average spatial correlation coefficient among the eight phases is 0.63), with an eastward propagation signature at a similar phase speed as the convective anomalies (5 m s−1). The model ozone anomalies on the intra-seasonal timescale are about 5 times larger when lightning emissions of NOx are included in the simulation than when they are not. Nevertheless, large-scale advection is the primary driving force for the ozone anomalies associated with the MJO. The variability related to the MJO for ozone reaches up to 47% of the total variability (ranging from daily to interannual), indicating that the MJO should be accounted for in simulating ozone perturbations in the tropics.
A remark on a paper of J. F. Aarnes

LetA be aC*-algebra on the separable Hilbert space ℋ, and let ℛ be the von Neumann generated byA. LetG be a topological group anda→φ(a) a representation ofG into the group of *-automorphisms ofA. Suppose that each φ(a) extends to a *-automorphism of ℛ, and suppose thata→〈φ(a)(T)x, y〉 is continuous for eachT inA andx, y and ℋ. Then, for a large class of groupsG, one has automatically thata→〈φ(a)(T)x,y〉 is continuous for allT in ℛ andx, y in ℋ.
Adaptation, plant evolution, and the fossil record

The importance of adaptation in determining patterns of evolution has become an important focus of debate in evolutionary biology. As it pertains to paleobotany, the issue is whether or not adaptive evolution mediated by natural selection is sufficient to explain the stratigraphic distributions of taxa and character states observed in the plant fossil record. One means of addressing this question is the functional evaluation of stratigraphic series of plant organs set in the context of paleoenvironmental change and temporal patterns of floral composition within environments. For certain organ systems, quantitative estimates of biophysical performance can be made on the basis of structures preserved in the fossil record. Performance estimates for plants separated in time or space can be compared directly. Implicit in different hypotheses of the forces that shape the evolutionary record (e.g. adaptation, mass extinction, rapid environmental change, chance) are predictions about stratigraphic and paleoenvironmental trends in the efficacy of functional performance. Existing data suggest that following the evolution of a significant structural innovation, adaptation for improved functional performance can be a major determinant of evolutionary changes in plants; however, there are structural and development limits to functional improvement, and once these are reached, the structure in question may no longer figure strongly in selection until and unless a new innovation evolves. The Silurian-Devonian paleobotanical record is consistent with the hypothesis that the succession of lowland floodplain dominants preserved in the fossil record of this interval was determined principally by the repeated evolution of new taxa that rose to ecological importance because of competitive advantages conferred by improved biophysical performance. This does not seem to be equally true for Carboniferous-Jurassic dominants of swamp and lowland floodplain environments. In these cases, environmental disruption appears to have been a major factor in shaping the fossil record. This does not mean that continuing adaptation was not important during this interval, but it may indicate that adaptive evolution was strongest in environments other than those best represented in the paleobotanical record.
Prospectus of mobile TV: Another bubble or killer application?

Abstract This paper investigates the prospectus of digital multimedia broadcasting from the technical, economic and regulatory issues and whether the market is evolving equitable, open, and competitive environment. Applying concepts of open access policy to the emerging technology of DMB, this paper attempts to gain a better understanding of how DMB will evolve and stabilize in next generation network environments. Three research questions guide this study: (1) How does DMB trigger a change in policy, market and industry structure? (2) What are the driving forces of the rapid DMB development in Korea? (3) Does DMB haul new generation network environment by disrupting the current network environment? As these questions involve socio-technical issues, this study uses a socio-technical perspective to investigate the complex relations between social and technical aspects of DMB by highlighting the co-evolving nature, diversity, and interface, which constitute the next generation network environment. The implication of next generation networks involves the dynamics of industry, regulation, and technology. Finally, this paper provides the DMB prospectus in reference to the next generation network environment.
Fabrication of TiO2 Tubules by Template Synthesis and Hydrolysis with Water Vapor

TiO2 nanostructures are prepared using a template method involving synthesis of TiO2 within pores of a nanoporous membrane. In this study, template synthesis is accompanied by hydrolysis by water vapor in the preparation of TiO2 nanotubules. These TiO2 nanotubules are prepared within the pores of an alumina template membrane. Characterization of the TiO2 tubules is accomplished by infrared spectroscopy (IR), UV−Vis spectrometry (UV), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmittance electron microscopy (TEM). TiO2 nanotubule diameters of ca. 50 and 200 nm were found. The 50-nm-diameter nanotubules were polycrystalline of anatase, and the 200-nm-diameter nanotubules had a thickness of 10 nm. This new method based on template synthesis and hydrolysis by water vapor can fabricate smaller TiO2 nanotubules easier than sol−gel template synthesis.
Isolated Candida infection of the lung

Candida pneumonia is a rare infection of the lungs, with the majority of cases occurring secondary to hematological dissemination of Candida organisms from a distant site, usually the gastrointestinal tract or skin. We report a case of a 77-year-old male who is life-long smoker with a history of rheumatoid arthritis and polymyalgia rheumatica, but did not take immunosuppressants for those conditions. Here, we present an extremely rare case of isolated pulmonary parenchymal Candida infection in the form pulmonary nodules without evidence of systemic disease which has only been described in a few previous reports.
Possible mechanisms of miniaturization during androgenetic alopecia or pattern hair loss

Abstract In androgenetic alopecia, or pattern hair loss, follicles undergo miniaturization, shrinking from terminal to vellus-like hairs. Traditionally, this process is thought to progress gradually over a number of follicular cycles. However, it is unlikely that miniaturization can be explained only by a series of progressively shorter anagen cycles. Simple calculations show that this process would take too long for significant miniaturization to occur secondary to shorter anagen cycles alone, especially in view of the latent lag period seen in pattern hair loss that occurs between the loss of a telogen hair and the appearance of an anagen hair. Evidence is presented to support a new concept that miniaturization is an abrupt, large-step process that also can be reversed in 1 hair cycle, as has been shown clinically, with confirmatory histologic evidence, in patients with pattern hair loss responding to finasteride treatment. It is hypothesized that the miniaturization seen with pattern hair loss may be the direct result of reduction in the cell number and, hence, size of the dermal papilla. (J Am Acad Dermatol 2001;45:S81-6.)
A prospective trial evaluating a standard approach to reoperation for missed parathyroid adenoma.

Objectives The authors evaluate the results of preoperative imaging protocols and surgical re-exploration in a series of patients with missed parathyroid adenomas after failed initial procedures for primary hyperparathyroidism. Background The success rate is lower and the complication rate is increased in patients undergoing reoperation for primary hyperparathyroidism compared with initial procedures. Scarring and distortion of tissue planes plus the potential for ectopic gland location leads to this worsened outcome. Methods Two hundred eighty-eight consecutive patients with persistent/recurrent hyperparathyroidism were treated at a single institution after a failed procedure or procedures at outside institutions. Two hundred twenty-two of these patients (77%) were believed to have a missed single adenoma, and these patients underwent 228 operations and 227 preoperative work-ups. Preoperative evaluation consisted of a combination of four noninvasive imaging studies-neck ultrasound, nuclear medicine scan, neck and mediastinal computed tomography scan, and neck and mediastinal magnetic resonance imaging. Based on the noninvasive testing alone, 27% patients underwent surgery whereas the other patients underwent invasive studies, including selective angiography (58%), selective venous sampling for parathyroid hormone (43%), or percutaneous aspiration of suspicious lesions (15%). Results Abnormal parathyroid adenomas were found in 209 of 222 initial procedures and 6 of 6 second procedures, with an overall success rate in terms of resolution of hypercalcemia in 97% (215/222) of patients. The single most common site of missed adenoma glands was in the tracheal-esophageal groove in the posterior superior mediastinum (27%). The most common ectopic sites for parathyroid adenomas are thymus (17%), intrathyroidal (10%), undescended glands (8.6%), carotid sheath (3.6%), and the retroesophageal space (3.2%). The most sensitive and specific noninvasive imaging test is the sestamibi subtraction scan, with 67% true-positive and no false-positive results. The rate of true-positive and false-positive results for ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and technetium thallium scans were 48%/21%, 52%/16%, 48%/14%, and 42%/8%, respectively. The incidence of injury to the recurrent laryngeal nerve was 1.3%. Conclusions A single missed parathyroid adenoma is the most common cause for a failed initial parathyroid operation. Appropriate use of preoperative imaging tests and knowledge of the potential location of parathyroid adenomas can lead to very high cure rates with minimal morbidity.
Iterative technique for high-resolution phase distortion compensation in adaptive interferometers

High-resolution adaptive phase distortion suppression is ex- perimentally demonstrated for laser interferometers using a liquid crystal television as a phase modulator and an optoelectronic feedback loop. The experiments are carried out for both amplitude division (Mach- Zehnder) and rotational shear types of interferometers. The suggested iterative control algorithm is based solely on interference pattern infor- mation. The results of numerical simulations of a high-resolution adap- tive system based on rotational shear type interferometers show the sys- tem's potential for atmospheric turbulence phase distortion suppression.
Intrinsic Josephson junctions in YBa2Cu3O7-δ single crystals

In the resistive region just below Tc, the dc magnetic field dependences of the dynamic resistance of several YBa2Cu3O7-δ single crystals exhibit oscillations with periods suggestive of the existence of Josephson junctions formed by the CuO2−Y−CuO2 atomic planes within the unit cell as well as those formed by the CuO2 bilayers from different unit cells. The coupling strength of these junctions and the distance over which the bilayers from different unit cells can couple depend very strongly on temperature.
Dieting Increases the Likelihood of Subsequent Obesity and BMI Gain: Results from a Prospective Study of an Australian National Sample.

Diet is a major determinant of obesity; however, findings from the studies examining how dieting to lose weight affects weight gain have been inconclusive. Our aim was to examine the longitudinal association of frequency of dieting for weight loss with (a) obesity status and (b) body mass index (BMI) change. We used data from Waves 9 (2009) and 10 (2010) of the Household Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) survey. Binominal logistic regression estimated the association of frequency of dieting in 2009 on probability of obesity in 2010. Multinomial logistic regression estimated the association of frequency of dieting in 2009 on the probability of BMI gain versus BMI maintenance and BMI loss between 2009 and 2010. The analysis sample size was 8824. Compared to those who were never on a diet in the previous year, the odds of obesity were 1.9, 2.9, and 3.2 times higher among those who were on a diet once, more than once, and always, respectively. Similarly, the odds of BMI gain versus BMI maintenance and also versus BMI loss were higher among those who dieted than those who did not. Dieting to lose weight can contribute to the risk of future obesity and weight gain. Losing weight requires a commitment to change one’s lifestyle and a sustained effort to maintain a healthy diet and engage in physical activity.
FIXing hemophilia B with gene therapy

A critical element for treatment of hemophilia B via gene therapy is sustained transgene expression. This study describes novel AAV vectors, optimized for expression in the liver, that generate sustained, therapeutic levels of factor IX expression in nonhuman primates. Although sustained
The effect of suture-button fixation on simulated syndesmotic malreduction: a cadaveric study.

Background: The accuracy of reduction of distal tibiofibular syndesmosis disruptions has been associated with the clinical outcome. Suture-button fixation of the syndesmosis is a dynamic alternative mode of fixation. We hypothesized that with deliberate clamp-induced malreduction, suture-button fixation of the syndesmosis would allow a more anatomic post-fixation position compared with screw fixation. Methods: Forty-eight syndesmotic fixations were performed on twelve through-knee cadaveric specimens. The syndesmosis was destabilized and off-axis clamping was used to produce both anterior and posterior malreduction patterns. In twelve scenarios (six anterior and six posterior malreductions), syndesmotic screw fixation was used, followed by computed tomography. With tenacula holding the malreduction, the syndesmosis screws were exchanged for a suture-button construct and the specimens underwent a subsequent computed tomography scan. In the other twelve scenarios, the suture-button fixation was achieved first, followed by screw fixation. Standardized measurements of anterior-posterior and medial-lateral fibular displacement were performed by two observers blinded to the method of fixation. Results: With anterior off-axis clamping, the mean sagittal malreduction was 2.7 ± 2.0 mm with screw fixation and 1.0 ± 1.0 mm with suture-button fixation (p = 0.02). With posterior off-axis clamping, the sagittal malreduction was 7.2 ± 2.3 mm with screw fixation and 0.5 ± 1.4 mm with suture-button fixation (p < 0.01). No differences were observed between fixation types in the coronal plane (p = 0.20 for anterior malreductions and p = 0.06 for posterior malreductions). Conclusions: With deliberate malreduction in a cadaver model, suture-button fixation of the syndesmosis results in less post-fixation displacement compared with screw fixation. The suture button’s ability to allow for natural correction of deliberate malreduction was greatest with posterior off-axis clamping. Clinical Relevance: Although the clinical relevance is unknown, dynamic syndesmotic fixation may mitigate clamp-induced malreduction.
Increasing Incidence of Pediatric Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in Southeastern Wisconsin: Relationship with Body Weight at Diagnosis

Introduction Several studies have confirmed the increasing rate of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in children and the link with increasing BMI at diagnosis termed the ‘accelerator hypothesis’. Our objective was to assess whether changing incidence of type 1 diabetes in a group of children and adolescent from the Midwest United States was associated with changes in BMI. Methods Data from 1618 (52.1% M/47.9% F) newly-diagnosed children and adolescents (<19 years) with T1DM, admitted to Children's Hospital of Wisconsin (CHW) between January 1995 and December 2004, was analyzed in relationship to body mass index (BMI) standard deviation score (SDS). Results An overall, 10-year cumulative incidence of 27.92 per 100,000 (19.12 to 41.72/100,000) was observed, with an average yearly cumulative incidence of 2.39%. The increase was largest in the younger age groups, 0–4, 5–9, and 10–14 having an average yearly increase of 2.4, 2.3, and 3.0%, respectively, corresponding to a relative 10-year increase of 25.3, 33.8, and 38.0%, respectively. Age at diagnosis was inversely correlated with BMI SDS (p<0.001) and remained significant for both males and females. Conclusions Annual incidence of T1DM increased two-fold at CHW over the 10-year study period. The majority of the increase was observed in the youngest age groups, which also appeared to be the heaviest. This research adds to the growing literature supporting the hypothesis that excess weight gain during childhood may be a risk factor for early manifestation of T1DM.
A note on new semi-regular divisible difference sets

We give a construction for new families of semi-regular divisible difference sets. The construction is a variation of McFarland's scheme [5] for noncyclic difference sets.
Age-related decreases in Nurr1 immunoreactivity in the human substantia nigra.

Nuclear receptor-related factor 1 (Nurr1), a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily, is associated with the induction of dopaminergic (DA) phenotypes in developing and mature midbrain neurons. It is well established that dopaminergic nigrostriatal function decreases with age. Whether age-related deficits in DA phenotypic markers are associated with alterations in Nurr1 expression is unknown. The present study found that virtually all of tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactive (TH-ir) neurons within the young adult human substantia nigra were Nurr1-immunoreactive (Nurr1-ir) positive. Stereologic counts revealed a significant reduction in the number of Nurr1-ir nigral neurons in middle-aged (23.13%) and aged (46.33%) individuals relative to young subjects. The loss of Nurr1-ir neurons was associated with a similar decline in TH-ir neuron number. In this regard, TH-ir neuronal number was decreased in middle-aged (11.10%) and in aged (45.97%) subjects, and this loss of TH-ir neurons was highly correlated (r = 0.92) with the loss of Nurr1-ir neurons. In contrast, the number of melanin-containing nigral neuron number was generally stable across age groups, indicating that changes in Nurr1 and TH reflect phenotypic age-related changes and not frank neuronal degeneration. In support of this concept, confocal microscopic analyses of Nurr1-ir and TH-ir fluorescence intensity revealed parallel decreases in Nurr1- and TH-immunofluorescence as a function of age. These data demonstrate that age-related decline of DA phenotypic markers is associated with down-regulation of Nurr1 expression in the SN.
Ni-Al2O3 and Ni-Al composite high-aspect-ratio microstructures

High-aspect-ratio microstructures (HARMs) have a variety of potential applications in heat transfer, fluid mechanics, catalysts and other microelectromechanical systems (MEMS). The aim of this work is to demonstrate the feasibility to fabricate high performance particulate metal-matrix composite and intermetallic micromechanical structures using the LIGA process. Well-defined functionally graded Ni-Al2O3 and Ni-Al high-aspect-ratio microposts were electroformed into lithographically patterned PMMA holes from a nickel sulfamate bath containing submicron alumina and a diluted Watts bath containing microsized aluminum particles, respectively. SEM image analysis showed that the volume fraction of the alumina reached up to around 30% in the Ni-Al2O3 deposit. The Vickers microhardness of these composites is in the range of 418 through 545, which is higher than those of nickel microstructures from a similar particle-free bath and other Ni-based electrodeposits. In the work on Ni-Al electroplating, a newly developed diluted Watts bath was used to codeposit micron-sized aluminum particles. The intermetallic compound Ni3Al was formed by the reaction of nickel matrices and aluminum particles through subsequent annealing at 630 degrees Celsius. WDS and XRD analyses confirmed that the annealed coating is a two-phase (Ni-Ni3Al) composite. The maximum aluminum volume fraction reached 19% at a cathode current density of 12 mA cm-2, and the Vickers microhardness of the as-deposited coatings is in the range 392 - 515 depending on the amount of aluminum incorporated.
Efficient Solenoidal Discretization of the Volume EFIE for Electromagnetic Scattering From Dielectric Objects

A solenoidal basis discretization of the volume electric-field integral equation is developed that avoids the need for volumetric integrals. The resulting formulation produces a symmetric system, enables an efficient matrix generation, and requires the fewest unknowns of existing low-order tetrahedral-mesh approaches.
Government Policies, Market Imperfections, and Foreign Direct Investment

The internalization/eclectic theory of foreign direct investment includes the important insight that government policies create market imperfections, which make foreign direct investment an economically rational strategic alternative for firms. This paper reexamines the effects of government policies on market imperfections and foreign direct investment (FDI). It broadens and refines the analysis of the impact of government policies by developing the following arguments: (1) There is a wide range of government policies that affect firms' FDI decisions via their effects on market imperfections. (2) There are numerous dimensions of variability in government policies that need to be identified in order to understand fully the effects of government policies on market imperfections and hence FDI flows. (3) Some of the effects of government policies on market imperfections and FDI are the opposite of those previously noted in the FDI literature. (4) The effects of government policies vary across the several individual components of FDI flows. The paper thus examines the following variables and relationships more extensively and precisely than has the previous literature: government policy variables as causal factors affecting FDI; market imperfection variables as intervening factors in the causal connections between government policies and FDI; and the multiple indicators of the various dimensions of FDI as dependent variables.
Enhanced priming of adaptive immunity by a proapoptotic mutant of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

The inhibition of apoptosis of infected host cells is a well-known but poorly understood function of pathogenic mycobacteria. We show that inactivation of the secA2 gene in Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which encodes a component of a virulence-associated protein secretion system, enhanced the apoptosis of infected macrophages by diminishing secretion of mycobacterial superoxide dismutase. Deletion of secA2 markedly increased priming of antigen-specific CD8+ T cells in vivo, and vaccination of mice and guinea pigs with a secA2 mutant significantly increased resistance to M. tuberculosis challenge compared with standard M. bovis bacille Calmette-Guerin vaccination. Our results define a mechanism for a key immune evasion strategy of M. tuberculosis and provide what we believe to be a novel approach for improving mycobacterial vaccines.
Strong verification of programs

The authors investigate the strong verification of programs using the concept of predicate transformer introduced by Dijkstra (1974). They show that every do-while program has a loop invariant that is both necessary and sufficient proving strong verification. This loop invariant is shown to be the least fixpoint of a recursive function mapping predicates to predicates that is defined by the program and the postcondition.
Bayesian hierarchical model of protein-binding microarray k-mer data reduces noise and identifies transcription factor subclasses and preferred k-mers

Motivation: Sequence-specific transcription factors (TFs) regulate the expression of their target genes through interactions with specific DNA-binding sites in the genome. Data on TF-DNA binding specificities are essential for understanding how regulatory specificity is achieved. Results: Numerous studies have used universal protein-binding microarray (PBM) technology to determine the in vitro binding specificities of hundreds of TFs for all possible 8 bp sequences (8mers). We have developed a Bayesian analysis of variance (ANOVA) model that decomposes these 8mer data into background noise, TF familywise effects and effects due to the particular TF. Adjusting for background noise improves PBM data quality and concordance with in vivo TF binding data. Moreover, our model provides simultaneous identification of TF subclasses and their shared sequence preferences, and also of 8mers bound preferentially by individual members of TF subclasses. Such results may aid in deciphering cis-regulatory codes and determinants of protein–DNA binding specificity. Availability and implementation: Source code, compiled code and R and Python scripts are available from http://thebrain.bwh.harvard.edu/hierarchicalANOVA. Contact:bojiang83@gmail.com or mlbulyk@receptor.med.harvard.edu Supplementary information:Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Binary Coding in Auditory Cortex

Cortical neurons have been reported to use both rate and temporal codes. Here we describe a novel mode in which each neuron generates exactly 0 or 1 action potentials, but not more, in response to a stimulus. We used cell-attached recording, which ensured single-unit isolation, to record responses in rat auditory cortex to brief tone pips. Surprisingly, the majority of neurons exhibited binary behavior with few multi-spike responses; several dramatic examples consisted of exactly one spike on 100% of trials, with no trial-to-trial variability in spike count. Many neurons were tuned to stimulus frequency. Since individual trials yielded at most one spike for most neurons, the information about stimulus frequency was encoded in the population, and would not have been accessible to later stages of processing that only had access to the activity of a single unit. These binary units allow a more efficient population code than is possible with conventional rate coding units, and are consistent with a model of cortical processing in which synchronous packets of spikes propagate stably from one neuronal population to the next.
Targeting PARP-1 allosteric regulation offers therapeutic potential against cancer

PARP-1 is a nuclear protein that has important roles in maintenance of genomic integrity. During genotoxic stress, PARP-1 recruits to sites of DNA damage where PARP-1 domain architecture initiates catalytic activation and subsequent poly(ADP-ribose)-dependent DNA repair. PARP-1 inhibition is a promising new way to selectively target cancers harboring DNA repair deficiencies. However, current inhibitors target other PARPs raising important questions concerning long-term off-target effects. Here we propose a new strategy that targets PARP-1 allosteric regulation as a selective way of inhibiting PARP-1. We found that disruption of PARP-1 domain-domain contacts through mutagenesis held no cellular consequences on recruitment to DNA damage or a model system of transcriptional regulation, but prevented DNA-damage dependent catalytic activation. Further, PARP-1 mutant overexpression in a pancreatic cancer cell line (MIA PaCa-2) increased sensitivity to platinum-based anti-cancer agents. These results not only highlight the potential of a synergistic drug combination of allosteric PARP inhibitors with DNA damaging agents in genomically unstable cancer cells (regardless of homologous recombination status), but also signify important applications of selective PARP-1 inhibition. Lastly, the development of a high-throughput (HT) PARP-1 assay is described as a tool to promote discovery of novel PARP-1 selective inhibitors.
Matrix methods for the design and analysis of recurrent algorithms for multi-purpose systolic arrays

A matrix method for the design and analysis of systolic array algorithms is presented. The method starts by representing a nested loop algorithm as a set of matrices and an expression function. This representation is then mathematically integrated into the algorithm transformation technique of Moldavan (1982) and Fortes (1984). Using this framework, data position, distribution, velocity, and collision information can be computed along with processor element memory contents, all as functions of the systolic temporal vector. The systolic array synthesis equations are then derived. Their solution is a transformation matrix that generates a systolic algorithm with prespecified properties in terms of algorithm flow. Finally, the method is shown to be able to generate systolic algorithms for nonuniform recurrent algorithms such as the LU. Cholesky and QR decompositions. >
Marangoni effects of trace impurities on the motion of long gas bubbles in capillaries

When a viscous liquid is displaced by a long air bubble in a capillary, it leaves behind a wetting liquid film. A lubrication analysis by Bretherton (1961), which assumes a mobile surface, underpredicts the film thickness at low bubble speeds. In this investigation, the Marangoni effect of small amounts of impurities is shown to be capable of explaining this discrepancy. We carry out an asymptotic analysis for different convective, diffusive and kinetic timescales and show that, if transport in the film is mass-transfer limited such that a bulk concentration gradient exists in the film, the film thickness increases by a maximum factor of 4 2/3; over Bretherton's mobile result at low bubble speeds. Moreover, at large bubble speeds, Bretherton's mobile prediction is approached for all ranges of timescales. For intermediate bubble speeds, the film thickness varies with respect to the bubble speed with an exponent smaller than 2/3 of the mobile theory. These results are favourably compared to literature data on film thickness.
Collagen expression by novel cell populations in the dermal wound environment

Numerous collagenous structures must be reconstituted following injury to the skin in order to return function to this tissue. The basement membrane zone, vascular basement membranes, and the dense connective tissue of the dermis are examples of structures that contain a number of different collagen types and that may need replacement following injury. In addition, a scar is deposited at the site of damage in order to substitute for elements lost in the trauma and for elements that cannot be successfully replaced. Clearly, cells resident within the different compartments of the skin are able to synthesize and deposit collagen to reform these multiple structures. However, accumulating experimental evidence suggests that in addition to these resident cells, blood-borne cells may be responsible for the deposition of a portion of the newly synthesized collagen. Studies from this laboratory point to the activated monocyte as a potential source of collagen in the wound environment. Given the dynamics of the process, the hypothesis is proposed that during normal wound healing, the activated monocyte is a source of collagen essential for the rapid formation of a provisional matrix conducive for the subsequent formation of granulation tissue. Collagen synthesis also occurs by expanded populations of resident cells, under the influence of inflammatory cell-derived mediators, which results in the major accumulation of collagen during normal wound repair. However, if a chronic inflammatory state is initiated, the activated monocytes may remain in sufficient numbers to deposit collagen leading to a pathological lesion.
Applications of diffuse reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy to fiber-reinforced composites

Diffuse reflectance Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy can be used to obtain infrared spectra directly from the surface of composite materials, with little or no sample preparation. It is thus of interest as a nondestructive method for industrial inspection. In many cases, the IR spectra provide detailed information concerning the chemical composition and molecular structure of the material. The technique works particularly well for carbon-fiber composites. This paper describes the principles involved, some factors which influence the quality of the spectra, and a number of examples of applications. These include the characterization of epoxy matrices (composition, curing, degradation), the detection of surface contamination, and the determination of the degree of crystallinity in poly(phenylene sulfide)-based composites. 24 references.
On a novel unsupervised competitive learning algorithm for scalar quantization

This letter presents a novel unsupervised competitive learning rule called the boundary adaptation rule (BAR), for scalar quantization. It is shown both mathematically and by simulations that BAR converges to equiprobable quantizations of univariate probability density functions and that, in this way, it outperforms other unsupervised competitive learning rules. >
Detection of Mutant BRAF Alleles in the Plasma of Patients with Metastatic Melanoma

Mutations in the BRAF oncogene at amino acid 600 have been reported in 40 to 70% of human metastatic melanoma tissues, and the critical role of BRAF in the biology of melanoma has been established. Sampling the blood compartment to detect the mutational status of a solid tumor represents a highly innovative advance in cancer medicine, and such an approach could have advantages over tissue-based techniques. We report the development of a fluorescence-based polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay to detect mutant BRAF alleles in plasma. A mutant-specific PCR assay was optimized to specifically amplify the mutant BRAF allele without amplifying the wild-type allele. Experiments mixing DNA from a BRAF mutant melanoma cell line with wild-type human placental DNA in varying proportions were performed to determine the threshold of this assay and to compare it with routine DNA sequencing. The assay was then applied to tissue and plasma specimens from patients with metastatic melanoma. The assay detected 0.1 ng of mutant DNA mixed in 100 ng of wild-type DNA and was 500-fold more sensitive than DNA sequencing. The assay detected mutant BRAF alleles in plasma samples from 14 of 26 (54%) metastatic melanoma patients. These data demonstrate the feasibility of blood-based testing for BRAF mutations in metastatic melanoma patients.
Self-Assessed Learning Style Correlates to use of Supplemental Learning Materials in an Online Course Management System.

Background: The benefit of online learning materials in medical education is not well defined. Aim: The study correlated certain self-identified learning styles with the use of self-selected online learning materials. Methods: First-year osteopathic medical students were given access to review and/or summary materials via an online course management system (CMS) while enrolled in a pre-clinical course. At the end of the course, students completed a self-assessment of learning style based on the Index of Learning Styles and a brief survey regarding their usage and perceived advantage of the online learning materials. Results: Students who accessed the online materials earned equivalent grades to those who did not. However, the study found that students who described their learning styles as active, intuitive, global, and/or visual were more likely to use online educational resources than those who identified their learning style as reflective, sensing, sequential, and/or verbal. Conclusions: Identification of a student’s learning style can help medical educators direct students to learning resources that best suit their individual needs.
Further Studies of Effects of Sodium Aluminosilicate on Egg Shell Quality

Five experiments were conducted using 36 dietary treatments to compare chloride salts and HCl as chemical sources of Cl for the adjustment of dietary Cl when using sodium aluminosilicate (SAS), to compare SAS to natural zeolites (clinoptilolite and mordenite), and to determine the appropriate level of dietary SAS for optimum egg specific gravity. The methods of Na and Cl correction used in the various treatments included altering the levels of NaCl, calcium chloride (CaCl2), potassium chloride (KCl), magnesium chloride (MgCl2), iron chloride (FeCl3), or hydrochloric acid (HCl). Experimental diets were fed for 6 to 8 wk. Results of all experiments (except Experiment 2) indicated that the addition of SAS to layer diets improved egg specific gravity and that correction for Na by removal of NaCl and the addition of HCl was not necessary for SAS to be effective. No beneficial effects of dietary SAS on egg specific gravity were observed when Na and Cl corrections were made using CaCl2, KCl, MgCl2, or FeCl3. The feeding of SAS has no influence on egg production in Experiments 1 and 3 but significantly improved egg production in Experiment 4, when it was added to diets containing 2.75% Ca. An adverse effect on production of feeding SAS was observed, especially at the higher levels of SAS in Experiments 2 and 5. In general, SAS tended to reduce feed consumption, with no effect on egg weight. It was concluded that .75% SAS will improve egg specific gravity approximately 1 to 3 units and that correction for Na was not necessary for SAS to be effective.