cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
DNA METHYLATION PROFILING OF A CNIDARIAN-ALGAL SYMBIOSIS USING NANOPORE SEQUENCING

Symbiosis with protists is common among cnidarians such as corals and sea anemones, and is associated with homeostatic and phenotypic changes in the host that could have epigenetic underpinnings, such as methylation of CpG dinucleotides. We leveraged the sensitivity to base modifications of nanopore sequencing to probe the effect of symbiosis with the chlorophyte Elliptochloris marina on methylation in the sea anemone Anthopleura elegantissima. We first validated the approach by comparison of nanopore-derived methylation levels with CpG depletion analysis of a published transcriptome, finding that high methylation levels are associated with CpG depletion as expected. Next, using reads generated exclusively from aposymbiotic anemones, a largely complete draft genome comprising 243 Mb was assembled. Reads from aposymbiotic and symbiotic sea anemones were then mapped to this genome and assessed for methylation using the program Nanopolish, which detects signal disruptions from base modifications as they pass through the nanopore. Based on assessment of 452,841 CpGs for which there was adequate read coverage (approximately 8% of the CpGs in the genome), symbiosis with E. marina was, surprisingly, associated with only subtle changes in the host methylome. However, we did identify one extended genomic region with consistently higher methylation among symbiotic individuals. The region was associated with a DNA polymerase zeta that is noted for its role in translesion synthesis, which opens interesting questions about the biology of this symbiosis. Our study highlights the power and relative simplicity of nanopore sequencing for studies of nucleic acid base modifications in non-model species.
Deep-learning-based volumetric imaging in fluorescence microscopy

We report a deep learning-based volumetric imaging framework that uses sparse 2D-scans captured by standard wide-field fluorescence microscopy at arbitrary axial positions within the sample. Through the design of a recurrent neural network, the information from different input planes is blended, and virtually propagated in space to rapidly reconstruct the sample volume over an extended axial range. We validated this deep-learning-based volumetric imaging framework using C. Elegans and nanobead samples to demonstrate a 30-fold reduction in the number of required scans. This versatile and rapid volumetric imaging technique reduces the photon dose on the sample and improves the temporal resolution.
Identity Property: Protecting the New IP in a Race-Relevant World

This Article explores the relatively new idea in American legal thought that people of color are human beings whose dignity and selfhood are worthy of legal protection. While the value and protection of whiteness throughout American legal history is undeniable, non-whiteness has had a more turbulent history. For most of American history, the concept of non-whiteness was constructed by white society and reinforced by law -- i.e., through a process of socio-legal construction -- in a way that excluded its possessor from the fruits of citizenship. However, people of color have resisted this negative construction of selfhood. This resistance led to the development of a number of empowered racial minority identities that were created through labor and affirmatively claimed by people of color. I analyze in this Article the concept of racial minority identity as a form of identity property and utilize examples from intellectual property and defamation law to illustrate some of the nuances of such a concept. This Article proceeds in three parts. Part I begins by exploring the socio-legal construction of race and explains Cheryl Harris’s idea that whiteness has been a form of property. Part II sets forth the argument that people of color have constructed empowering racial identities in resistance to the socio-legal construction of negative racial meaning that has been imposed on them. Finally, Part III explores the idea of identity property and provides examples of how intellectual property and reputational harm concepts can elucidate ways in which identity property can be expressed and protected.
Dilemma of the Tropics: Changes to Housing Safety Perceptions, Preferences, and Priorities in Multihazard Environments

AbstractThis study seeks to understand how housing safety perceptions have changed after a specific hazard event: the 2019–2020 earthquakes affecting the US Caribbean island of Puerto Rico. The res...
The Impact of “Flatten the Curve” on Interdependent Economic Sectors

The COVID-19 pandemic has severely disrupted the operation of many economic sectors and challenged the capacity of healthcare systems. The “flatten the curve” expression has been widely used recently. To flatten the curve means to slow down the rate of disease transmission so as not to strain limited healthcare resources. In the absence of vaccines, the scientific community has urged for the implementation of nonpharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) to flatten the curve. This paper applies the Leontief input-output model (IO) to assess the impact of COVID-19 on the U.S. economy. The model uses publicly available IO data coupled with epi curves to estimate the ripple effects of workforce disruptions across interdependent sectors of the economy. The epi curve for the U.S. is characterized by an uptick of cases after the 2020 Memorial Day weekend, which is used as the baseline scenario. The paper then explores a mitigated scenario and evaluates the extent to which a flattened curve can effectively reduce the economic losses incurred by various sectors. The results of this study can be used to formulate policies for implementing NPIs, as well as to identify potential solutions to curb the impact of disasters, like the COVID-19 pandemic, on the workforce and the economy.
A Time Series Analysis and Forecast of CAPE

Expanding stock market valuation multiples add to expected returns, and contracting multiples subtract from them. But how to forecast valuation measures, like the cyclically adjusted price earnings (CAPE) ratio? Using Robert Shiller’s CAPE, the author first shows that forecasts based on mean reversion are almost certainly wrong—CAPE appears to be nonstationary, indicating no tendency toward mean reversion. The author then provides forecasts of CAPE using time series analysis—an approach that requires no theory, and that accommodates a range of views about factors that influence valuation. The author suggests that practitioners use these time series forecasts to help inform capital market assumptions. TOPICS:Security analysis and valuation, fundamental equity analysis, quantitative methods, statistical methods, financial crises and financial market history Key Findings ▪ CAPE may be nonstationary and as such have no tendency to revert to its long-term or any other mean—forecasts of CAPE based on mean regression may be wrong. ▪ Considering the range of outcomes for CAPE values suggested by time series models reduces the chances of a big surprise in either direction. ▪ Practitioners factoring valuation changes into their capital market assumptions may wish to assume no or small changes as a base case, rather than reversion to a long-term mean value.
SPOROS: A pipeline to analyze DISE/6mer seed toxicity

micro(mi)RNAs are (18-22nt long) noncoding short (s)RNAs that suppress gene expression by targeting the 39 untranslated region of target mRNAs. This occurs through the seed sequence located in position 2-7/8 of the miRNA guide strand, once it is loaded into the RNA induced silencing complex (RISC). G-rich 6mer seed sequences can kill cells by targeting C-rich 6mer seed matches located in genes that are critical for cell survival. This results in induction of Death Induced by Survival gene Elimination (DISE), also referred to as 6mer seed toxicity. miRNAs are often quantified in cells by aligning the reads from small (sm)RNA sequencing to the genome. However, the analysis of any smRNA Seq data set for 6mer seed toxicity requires an advanced workflow, solely based on the exact position 2-7 of any sRNA that can enter the RISC. Therefore, we developed SPOROS, an automated pipeline that produces multiple useful outputs to compare 6mer seed toxicity of all cellular sRNAs, regardless of their nature, between different samples. We provide two examples to illustrate the capabilities of SPOROS: Example one involves the analysis of RISC-bound sRNAs in a cancer cell line (either wild-type or two mutant lines unable to produce most miRNAs). Example two is based on a publicly available smRNA Seq data set from postmortem brains (either from normal or Alzheimer9s patients). Our methods are designed to be used to analyze a variety of smRNA Seq data in various normal and disease settings.
Exploring dissociation as a facilitator of suicide risk: A translational investigation using virtual reality

Abstract Research shows that suicidal behavior is not a result of a single cause or single event, but instead is an interaction of facilitators. One potential facilitator that needs further exploration is dissociation. Dissociation has been consistently linked to suicidal behavior, and theories have posited that dissociation increases the possibility of a suicidal act via intensified disconnect from the body. However, these theories do not indicate whether dissociation is a facilitator of suicide risk by increasing suicidal ideation and attempt behaviors. Additionally, unique considerations of working with suicidal individuals have caused suicide research to lag behind research where laboratory manipulation is possible. Virtual Reality (VR) technology is potentially a useful new translational approach to studying suicide causes. Undergraduate students (n = 145) completed a dissociation induction task and then decided whether to engage in a virtual suicide option. Results showed that those who reported higher dissociation scores also reported higher suicide risk and indicated that certain facets of dissociation (i.e., depersonalization and derealization) significantly predicted engaging in virtual suicide. Results indicate that dissociation should be considered as a factor in the assessment and treatment of suicide risk. Limitations include that this used an uncommon suicide attempt method (i.e., jumping), and engaging in VR suicide is not the same as engaging in actual suicide or suicidal behaviors. However, VR may recreate certain sensations and situations one might experience when engaging in a suicide attempt and thus should be considered assessing and treating suicide risk.
Effect of Intracytoplasmic Membrane Development on Oxidation of Sorbitol and Other Polyols by Gluconobacter oxydans

By using membrane-bound dehydrogenases, Gluconobacter oxydans characteristically accomplishes single-step oxidation of many polyols and quantitative release of the oxidation product into the medium. These cells typically differentiate by forming intracytoplasmic membranes (ICM) after exponential growth on glycerol. Earlier experiments demonstrated that glycerol-grown cells containing ICM oxidized glycerol more rapidly than cells which were harvested during exponential growth and lacked ICM (Claus et al., J. Bacteriol. 123: 1169-1183). This report demonstrates that ICM are also formed after growth on sorbitol. Sorbitol-grown, ICM-containing maximum stationary-phase (MSP) cells showed from 50 to 300% greater oxidation (respiration) rates on mannitol, glycerol, glucose, meso -erythritol, and meso -inositol than did exponential-phase (EXP) cells which lacked ICM. Both EXP and MSP cells exhibited maximum sorbitol oxidation at pH 5.0, 38°C, and 5% (wt/vol) sorbitol. When assayed under these optimum conditions, ICM-containing MSP cells demonstrated a 72% increase in respiration on sorbitol compared with that of EXP cells lacking ICM (oxygen quotients of 3,100 and 1,800, respectively). Gas chromatographic studies showed that sorbose was the only detectable product released from cells during oxygen quotient analysis. The specific activity of particulate-bound sorbitol dehydrogenase from ICM-containing MSP cells was twice that obtained from particulate fractions prepared from EXP cells lacking ICM. These results show that neither ICM formation after exponential growth nor increased respiration of other polyols is dependent upon the polyol used to grow cells. Our results suggest that increased respiratory activity of MSP cells is caused both by ICM formation and by increased synthesis (or activity) of the polyol dehydrogenases found in these membranes. Images
The Push-Me Pull-You of T Cell Activation

What causes the aberrant immune responses that result in chronic multiorgan autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)? As Carson and Lo explain in their Perspective, new findings suggest that the lysophospholipid LPC--generated during the breakdown of low density lipoproteins and plasma membranes--is a master inhibitor of T cell activation ( Kabarowski et al.). Defects in the LPC pathway could lower the threshold for T cell activation leading to SLE and other multiorgan autoimmune diseases.
On Competing Models of Coronal Heating and Solar Wind Acceleration: The Debate in '08

In preparation for lively debate at the May 2008 SPD/AGU Meeting in Fort Lauderdale, this document attempts to briefly lay out my own view of the evolving controversy over how the solar wind is accelerated. It is still unknown to what extent the solar wind is fed by flux tubes that remain open (and are energized by footpoint-driven wavelike fluctuations), and to what extent much of the mass and energy is input more intermittently from closed loops into the open-field regions. It may turn out that a combination of the two ideas is needed to explain the full range of observed solar wind phenomena.
Diagnosis in the presence of intermittent faults

Several constant-time parallel algorithms for fault diagnosis have been given for the classical static-fault model We extend those algorithms to tolerate intermittent faults.
On the Formal Analysis of a Spatio-temporal Role-Based Access Control Model

With the growing use of wireless networks and mobile devices, we are moving towards an era where spatial and temporal information will be necessary for access control. The use of such information can be used for enhancing the security of an application, and it can also be exploited to launch attacks. For critical applications, a model for spatio-temporal-based access control is needed that increases the security of the application and ensures that the location information cannot be exploited to cause harm. Consequently, researchers have proposed various spatio-temporal access control models that are useful in pervasive computing applications. Such models typically have numerous different features to support the various application requirements. The different features of a spatio-temporal access control model may interact in subtle ways resulting in conflicts. We illustrate how the access control model can be formally analyzed to detect the presence of conflicts. We use Alloy, a formal language based on first-order logic, for the purpose of our analysis. Alloy is supported by a software infrastructure that allows automated analysis of models and has been used to verify industrial applications. The results obtained by analyzing the spatio-temporal access control model will enable the users of the model to make informed decisions.
Characterization of a synthetic peptide that inhibits the interaction between protein S and C4b-binding protein.

Protein S is unique among the vitamin K-dependent proteins found in blood plasma because it is a cofactor rather than a zymogen of a serine protease. Instead of a trypsin-like domain, protein S contains a domain that has sequence homology with steroid binding proteins. In order to understand the function of this structural domain, peptides have been synthesized with amino acid sequences that are homologous between human protein S and rat androgen binding protein. Two peptides, corresponding to amino acids 400–407 (PINPRLDG) and 605–614 (GVQLDLDEAI) of the protein S sequence have been tested for their effects on protein S function. Neither peptide altered the clotting of bovine or human plasma. The peptide GVQLDLDEAI enhanced the anticoagulant activity of human-activated protein C in human plasma while the peptide PINPRLDG had no effect. The peptide GVQLDLDEAI was observed to inhibit the binding of protein S to C4b-binding protein in plasma, resulting in increased concentrations of free protein S. GVQLDLDEAI was also observed to enhance the disassociation of the protein S•C4b-binding protein complex when purified complex was used. Finally, C4b-binding protein was observed to bind to GVQLDLDEAI. These results suggest that the carboxyl-terminal region of protein S, which contains the sequence GVQLDLDEAI, is involved in the interaction between protein S and C4b-binding protein.
Globalization and the Labor Markets of the Logistics Industry

When the Frontline documentary, Is Wal-Mart Good for America? was released, it presented a vision of an information-intensive logistics system which brought goods to market from far-off suppliers on schedule. In the documentary, when a customer purchases a product at Wal-Mart, the cashier's computer scans the sale and sends information to the company's inventory control internet data-base so that orders for new supplies of that product can be transmitted to suppliers in China. Throughout academia, researchers have absorbed this image, and fashioned a picture of a logistics industry that is tightly integrated. Sales data drives orders; orders drive logistics services; shipping data drive warehouse schedules; lean inventories mean low insurance and interest costs.
Use of Intraoperative Computed Tomography for Revisional Procedures in Patients with Complex Maxillofacial Trauma.

Zygomaticomaxillary complex (ZMC) fractures are extremely common in patients with facial trauma, due to the prominent position of the zygoma on the face.1–3 Displaced ZMC fractures often require prompt surgical reduction at all articulation points to restore facial symmetry and prevent the development of enophthalmos.4 However, in some cases, posttraumatic swelling or the severe distortion of anatomic landmarks in patients with multiple facial fractures can adversely affect the intraoperative assessment of the operating surgeon, resulting in nonanatomic reduction and subsequent need for more challenging revisional procedures. Intraoperative C-arm cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging has been evaluated as an aid to improve the accuracy of ZMC fracture repair multiple studies.5–9 Intraoperative CBCT scan is not without risks, however, including: radiation exposure, increased operative time, and increased costs. To mitigate these challenges, we propose reserving the use of intraoperative CBCT scan to aid in the reduction of complex or secondary ZMC repositioning after a failure of conventional techniques rather than for all cases as suggested by others.5–9 We have successfully used it in 3 patients with distorted anatomical landmarks and ZMC malpositioning after initial attempt of surgical repair. A representative case is described below.
Signaling the Strategic Value of Knowledge

Firms competing primarily on knowledge resources face problems in informing relevant external stakeholders about the value of that knowledge without losing its value. This knowledge may be transferred to stakeholders only at great expense, or that transfer of knowledge to stakeholders may simultaneously promote its transfer to competitors. By conceptualizing firms and the environments within which they compete to differ in levels of uncertainty, this paper develops a framework to examine signaling mechanisms firms can use to effectively signal the value of their knowledge to two key stakeholder groups, the capital and labor markets, while avoiding associated transfer problems.
Improved Amplification of Microbial DNA from Blood Cultures by Removal of the PCR Inhibitor Sodium Polyanetholesulfonate

Molecular methods are increasingly used to identify microbes in clinical samples. A common technical problem with PCR is failed amplification due to the presence of PCR inhibitors. Initial attempts at amplification of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene from inoculated blood culture media failed for this reason. The inhibitor persisted, despite numerous attempts to purify the DNA, and was identified as sodium polyanetholesulfonate (SPS), a common additive to blood culture media. Like DNA, SPS is a high-molecular-weight polyanion that is soluble in water but insoluble in alcohol. Accordingly, SPS tends to copurify with DNA. An extraction method was designed for purification of DNA from blood culture media and removal of SPS. Blood culture media containing human blood and spiked with Escherichia coli was subjected to an organic extraction procedure with benzyl alcohol, and removal of SPS was documented spectrophotometrically. Successful amplification of the extracted E. coli 16S rRNA gene was achieved by adding 5 μl of undiluted processed sample DNA to a 50-μl PCR mixture. When using other purification methods, the inhibitory effect of SPS could be overcome only by dilution of these samples. By our extraction technique, even uninoculated blood culture media were found to contain bacterial DNA when they were subjected to broad-range 16S rRNA gene consensus PCR. We conclude that the blood culture additive SPS is a potent inhibitor of PCR, is resistant to removal by traditional DNA purification methods, but can be removed by a benzyl alcohol extraction protocol that results in improved PCR performance.
Chelation of Heavy Metals: The Future

(1992). Chelation of Heavy Metals: The Future. Journal of Toxicology: Clinical Toxicology: Vol. 30, No. 4, pp. 491-492.
Long-term follow-up of patients with culture-confirmed Lyme disease.

Abstract Purpose To determine the long-term outcome of patients with culture-confirmed Lyme disease. Methods We analyzed data collected prospectively on adult patients from a highly endemic area in New York State who were diagnosed with early Lyme disease between 1991 and 1994. Patients with culture-confirmed erythema migrans were evaluated at baseline, 7 to 10 days, 21 to 28 days, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and annually thereafter. All patients were treated with antibiotics at the time of diagnosis. Results We evaluated 96 cases on 709 separate occasions (median, eight evaluations per case). The erythema migrans rash resolved within 3 weeks in all of the 94 evaluable cases, none of whom developed an objective extracutaneous manifestation of Lyme disease. Of the 81 cases who were followed for ≥1 year, all but 8 (10%) were asymptomatic at their last visit, a mean (± SD) of 5.6 ± 2.6 years into follow-up, and only 3 (4%) were symptomatic at every follow-up visit. Intercurrent tick bites were reported by 45 cases (47%), and 14 (15%) developed a second episode of erythema migrans. Four other cases who were asymptomatic seroconverted between years 2 and 5. Conclusion The long-term outcome of patients with erythema migrans after antibiotic therapy was excellent, but patients from a highly endemic area in New York State remained at high risk of re-exposure to ticks and reinfection. Subjective symptoms during follow-up evaluations tended to be mild to moderate, intermittent, and associated with more symptomatic illness at the time of initial diagnosis.
The relation of tip-of-the-tongue states and retrieval time

The tip-of-the-tongue state (TOT) is the phenomenological experience that a word is on the verge of being recalled. Participants rated TOTs as either emotional or nonemotional. In Experiment 1, given general-information questions, participants spent more time attempting retrieval during emotional TOTs than during nonemotional TOTs or n-TOTs (retrieval failures not accompanied by TOTs). Experiment 2 replicated the effect that TOTs show longer retrieval times than n-TOTs. In Experiment 3, with word definitions as stimuli, retrieval times were longer for emotional TOTs. Experiment 4 showed the same relation between retrieval times and TOTs even when participants made retrospective decisions about whether they had experienced a TOT before they retrieved the correct target. Valence of emotion was correlated with correct resolution of the TOT. These results are discussed in the context of a metacognitive model, in which TOTs serve to monitor and control cognition.
Subversive Institutions: The Design and the Destruction of Socialism and the State

1. The collapse of socialism and socialist states 2. Domestic socialism: monopoly and deregulation 3. Federalism and the Soviet Bloc: monopoly and deregulation 4. Leaving socialism 5. Leaving the state 6. Violent versus peaceful state dismemberment 7. Institutions and opportunities: constructing and deconstructing regimes and states.
Development of an integration mutagenesis system in Lactobacillus gasseri

Lactobacillus gasseri ATCC 33323 is a member of the acidophilus-complex group, microbes of human origin with significant potential for impacting human health based on niche-specific traits. In order to facilitate functional analysis of this important species, a upp-based counterselective chromosomal integration system was established and employed for targeting the lipoteichoic acid (LTA) synthesis gene, ltaS, in L. gasseri ATCC 33323. The ltaS gene encodes a phosphoglycerol transferase responsible for building the glycerol chain of LTA. No isogenic mutant bearing the deletion genotype was recovered, but an integration knockout mutant was generated with insertion inactivation at the ltaS locus. The ltaS deficient derivative exhibited an altered cellular morphology and significantly reduced ability to adhere to Caco-2 intestinal cell monolayers, relative to the wild-type parent strain.
Conflict Cause Identification in Web-Based Concurrent Engineering Design System

Modern engineering design commonly involves the cooperative effort of design experts, who often come from different engineering backgrounds, have different geological locations, and communicate primarily via the web. Conflicts, which commonly exist in the design process, are exacerbated by this situation. This paper first presents a well-organized structure of conflict classes and causes. Based on an analysis of conflict nature and conflict-related human behavior in the concurrent engineering design, a new computational model for autonomously identifying the conflict cause in the web-based concurrent engineering design environment is developed and tested. The Plane World design simulation system is used as a test-bed to demonstrate and verify the conflict cause identification methods developed in this work.
The specter haunting multiculturalism

I argue that the specter haunting multiculturalism is incommensurability. In many discussions of multiculturalism there is a ‘picture’ that holds us captive – a picture of cultures, religious or ethnic groups that are self-contained and are incommensurably radical with each other. I explore and critique this concept of incommensurability. I trace the idea of incommensurability back to the discussion by Thomas Kuhn; and especially to the ways in which his views were received. Drawing on Gadamer’s understanding of hermeneutics, I argue that the very idea of radical incommensurability is incoherent. This does not entail an abstract universalism but rather sensitivity to the ways in which all languages and cultures are in principle open to the real possibility of enlarging one’s vision and mutually understanding.
Aliphatic polyhydrazides: A new low temperature solution polymerization

High molecular weight polyhydrazides have been prepared by a new low temperature polymerization technique from equimolar amounts of a dihydrazide and a dicarbonyl chloride in dialkyl amide solvents. All-aliphatic polyhydrazides were insoluble in dimethyl sulfoxide, had polymer melt temperatures ranging from 200 to 300°C. Films could be pressed and fibers could be pulled from the melt. Aliphatic-aromatic and oxalic-aromatic polyhydrazides which undergo dehydration at different rates had polymer melt temperatures ranging from 250 to 300°C. and inherent viscosities ranging from 0.3 to 1.5. They were soluble in dimethyl sulfoxide, a solvent from which tough films could be cast.
2D optoelectronic engines with wafer scale self-aligned optical cores

We developed a novel 24 channel (2×12) surface mount solder reflowable optoelectronic engine using MEMS manufacturing techniques, wafer scale packaging, and passive alignment. A fiber optic link operating at 16.5 Gbps/channel was demonstrated.
Mechanism of inhibition of Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigen 85 by ebselen.

The increasing prevalence of drug-resistant tuberculosis highlights the need for identifying new antitubercular drugs that can treat these infections. The antigen 85 (Ag85) complex has emerged as an intriguing mycobacterial drug target due to its central role in synthesizing major components of the inner and outer leaflets of the mycobacterial outer membrane. Here we identify ebselen as a potent inhibitor of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis Ag85 complex. Mass spectrometry data show that ebselen binds covalently to a cysteine residue (C209) located near the Ag85C active site. The crystal structure of Ag85C in the presence of ebselen shows that C209 modification restructures the active site, thereby disrupting the hydrogen-bonded network within the active site that is essential for enzymatic activity. C209 mutations display marked decreases in enzymatic activity. These data suggest that compounds using this mechanism of action will strongly inhibit the Ag85 complex and minimize the selection of drug resistance.
Perception of temporal patterns defined by tonal sequences.

This experiment tested how listeners discriminate between the temporal patterns defined by two sequences of tones. Two arrhythmic sequences of n tones were played successively (n=8, 12, or 16, tone duration=35 ms, frequency=1000 Hz), and the listener reported whether the sequences had the same or different temporal patterns. In the first sequence, the durations of the intertone gaps were chosen at random; in the second sequence, the gaps were either (a) the same as the first sequence or (b) chosen at random. Discrimination performance increased with the variability of the gap sequences and decreased with the size of the correlation between the sequences. A discrimination model based on computation of the sample correlation between the sequences of gaps, but limited by an internal variability of approximately 15 ms, described observer performance in a variety of conditions.
Radius versus diameter in cocomparability and intersection graphs

Abstract Whereas in general graphs the only connection between radius and diameter can be expressed by the inequality r(G)⩽diam(G)⩽2r(G), in this paper it is shown that much sharper inequalities of type 2r(G)-diam(G)⩽a are valid inside the classes of cocomparability graphs and trapezoid graphs, with constants a = 3,2. For circular-arc graphs and proper circular-arc graphs we obtain diam(G) - r(G)⩽b, with constants b=2,1.
Pulsed laser deposition of chromium-doped zinc selenide thin films for mid-infrared applications

We have grown Cr doped ZnSe thin films by pulsed laser deposition on GaAs, sapphire and Si substrates through KrF excimer laser ablation of hot-pressed targets containing appropriate stoichiometric mixtures of Zn, Se, and Cr species and hot-pressed ceramic targets made of ZnSe and CrSe powders in vacuum and in an He background environment (10-4 Torr). Deposited films were analyzed using X-ray diffraction to determine crystallinity and energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence to confirm Cr incorporation into the films. Photoluminescence measurements on the films show intracenter Cr2+ emission in the technologically important 2–2.6 μm spectral range.
Isolation of a scorpion toxin for use as a probe of the electrically excitable sodium channel

Summary Fractionation of the venom of the scorption Tityus serrulatus yielded two toxic components that caused an increase in the uptake of 22Na+ by neuroblastoma cells. Scorpion toxins and veratridine stimulated 22Na+ uptake by cells in a synergistic manner while tetrodotoxin blocked this effect. A radio-labeled derivative of scorpion toxin retained biological activity similar to unmodified material.
Methamphetamine-induced hyperthermia in mice: examination of dopamine depletion and heat-shock protein induction

Abstract Methamphetamine (METH) is a common drug of abuse and a clinical anoretic which is known to cause neurotoxicity in rodents as evidenced by a depletion of dopamine (DA) and by decreased numbers of DA uptake sites in the striatum. It is also known to cause hyperthermia which is believed to induce the production of the 72-kDa heat-shock protein (HSP-72). In the present study, we evaluated whether METH induced the production of HSP-72 in both the mouse hippocampus and striatum and also attempted to correlate this induction with monoamine depletion. Adult male C57BL/6N mice received METH (20 mg/kg, i.p.) in an ambient temperature of 27°C and body temperatures were monitored up to 240 min after treatment. Animals were sacrificed 12, 18, 24, 39, and 48 h after treatment. One striatum was examined for DA, DOPAC, and HVA levels using HPLC–EC and the contralateral striatum, along with the hippocampus, was prepared for immunoblotting. HPLC–EC analysis revealed a significant depletion of DA, DOPAC, and HVA at all time points. There was, however, a significant increase in DA at 48 vs. 39 h. A biphasic production of HSP-72, in both the hippocampus and striatum, was detected by immunoblot. HSP-72 production was strong at 12 h which corresponds to neuronal induction. However, at 18 h in the striatum and 24 h in the hippocampus, the induction appears to be reduced. A second phase of HSP-72 induction occurred at 39 h in both regions. In a second experiment, mice were dosed according to the same paradigm and were perfused at 18 h after treatment for immunohistochemical analysis. HSP-72 immunoreactivity was found in neurons of the CA1 and CA4 regions of the hippocampus; however, no detectable response was evident in the striatum. In conclusion, these data demonstrate that a single injection of METH can lead to hyperthermia which may then result in both the induction of HSP-72 and depletion of DA concentration.
Velocity filter effect and dynamics of distant magnetotail

Abstract The velocity filter effect produces a persistent time variation of the self-consistent magnetic-field configuration in the Earth's distant magnetotail. In the presence of a mantle source of plasma, a steady-state configuration cannot be attained, even if the source supply is constant in time. The velocity filter effect produces an evolution of the magnetotail such that the plasma sheet thins throughout the region accessible to the incoming plasma. This thinning process, widely observed and theoretically predicted, leads to current-sheet disruption when the thickness of the plasma sheet shrinks to a critical value. The whole process lasts 1–2 h, consistent with the observed duration of a typical substorm growth phase.
Demographic Characteristics Associated with Homelessness and Risk Among Female and Male Veterans Accessing VHA Outpatient Care

Abstract Background This study explored demographic influences on veterans' reports of homelessness or imminent risk of homelessness with a particular focus on gender. Methods We analyzed data for a cohort of veterans who responded to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Veterans Health Administration (VHA) universal screener for homelessness and risk during a 3-month period. Multinomial mixed effects models—stratified by gender—predicted veterans' reports of homelessness or risk based on age, race, marital status, and receipt of VA compensation. Findings The proportion of positive screens—homelessness or risk—was 2.7% for females and 1.7% for males. Women more likely to report being at risk of homelessness were aged 35 to 54 years, Black, and unmarried; those more likely to experience homelessness were Black and unmarried. Among male veterans, the greatest predictors of both homelessness and risk were Black race and unmarried status. Among both genders, receiving VA disability compensation was associated with lesser odds of being homeless or at risk. Conclusions The findings describe the current population of veterans using VHA health care services who may benefit from homelessness prevention or intervention services, identify racial differences in housing stability, and distinguish subpopulations who may be in particular need of intervention. Interventions to address these needs are described.
Post-nerve-sparing prostatectomy, dose-escalated intensity-modulated radiotherapy: effect on erectile function

Abstract Purpose: The advent of widespread prostate-specific antigen screening has resulted in more younger, potent men being diagnosed with early-stage, organ-confined prostate cancer amenable to definitive surgery. Nerve-sparing prostatectomy is a relatively new surgical advance in the treatment of prostate cancer. Very few data exist on the effect of postoperative radiotherapy (RT) on erectile function after nerve-sparing prostatectomy. They are based on conventional techniques using moderate doses of radiation, 45–54 Gy. Intensity-modulated RT (IMRT) is becoming more widespread because it allows dose escalation with increased sparing of the surrounding normal tissue. We investigated the effect of postprostatectomy, high-dose IMRT on patients' erectile function. Methods and Materials: A review of patient records found 51 patients treated between April 1998 and December 2000 with IMRT after unilateral or bilateral nerve-sparing prostatectomy. The pathologic disease stage in these patients was T2 in 47.4% and T3 in 52.6%. Postoperatively, 4 patients received hormonal ablation consisting of one injection of Lupron Depot (30 mg) 2 months before RT. The median age was 65 years (range 46–77) at the time of RT. The prescribed dose was 64 Gy (range 60–66). The mean dose was 69.6 Gy (range 64.0–72.3). Erectile function was assessed before and after RT by questionnaires. Sexual potency was defined as erectile rigidity adequate for vaginal penetration. Results: Of the 51 patients, 18 (35.3%) maintained their potency and 33 (64.7%) became impotent after nerve-sparing prostatectomy. Patients who underwent bilateral nerve-sparing prostatectomy had higher rates of postoperative potency than did those who underwent unilateral nerve-sparing surgery (72.2% vs. 27.8%; p = 0.025). The follow-up for the entire group was 19.5 months. All 18 patients (100%) who were potent postoperatively remained potent after RT. The median follow-up for the 18 potent patients was 27.2 months, significantly longer than that of the impotent group, 13.0 months ( p Conclusion: This is the first report on the effects of dose-escalated IMRT on men who have undergone nerve-sparing prostatectomy. Despite the high dose (mean dose 69.6 Gy) to the prostate bed and nerves, postoperative IMRT had no negative effect on erectile function for the patients who remained potent after nerve-sparing prostatectomy. Longer term follow-up and a larger cohort of patients are warranted to confirm these findings.
Modification of ventricular tachycardia by procainamide in patients with coronary artery disease

Abstract Fifteen consecutive patients with coronary artery disease had rapid (158 to 272 beats/min) and sustained ventricular tachycardia induced by the extrastimulus technique, and received procainamide infusion. Before the study, all but one patient had severe symptoms with tachycardia, and six had survived apparent sudden death. Procainamide consistently slowed ventricular tachycardia. However, in traditional doses (1 g infusion, plasma concentration greater than 4 μg/ml), it prevented induction of ventricular tachycardia in only 2 of the 15 patients. Induction of ventricular tachycardia was facilitated by procainamide in 10 patients. Larger doses of procainamide (plasma concentration 20.2 μg/ml ± 9.7 [mean ± standard deviation]) prevented induction of ventricular tachycardia in one of eight patients. Rapid ventricular rates (more than 210 beats/min) that were not slowed (by 50 percent or more) after a 1 g infusion of the drug predicted failure of procainamide to prevent ventricular tachycardia. Therefore, procainamide slowed but did not prevent induced ventricular tachycardia in most of these patients with coronary artery disease at risk of sudden death.
Changes in region- and cell type-specific expression patterns of neutral amino acid transporter 1 (ASCT-1) in the anterior cingulate cortex and hippocampus in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and major depression

Although, the pathogenetic mechanisms of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depression are not clearly understood, various neurotransmitter systems are reported to have altered expression patterns of their receptor and transporter proteins. Changes in the expression of the neutral amino acid transporter 1 (ASCT-1) protein in the anterior cingulate gyrus and the hippocampus were investigated using immunohistochemistry and western blotting. A significant decrease in ASCT-1 immunoreactivity in neurons in the cingulate cortex as well as astrocytes of the white matter was seen in schizophrenia. In bipolar disorder and major depression, similar results were seen for neurons. In the hippocampus, there was a striking loss of immunoreactivity on astrocytes, neurons and interneurons in multiple regions in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, while only minor changes were seen in major depression. The altered expression of ASCT-1 in neurons and astrocytes reflects profound changes in glutamatergic neurotransmission and highlights a significant role of astrocytes in the pathophysiology of neurotransmission in these major psychiatric disorders.
Optical implementation of programmable neural networks

ABSTRACT A 2 -D hybrid optical neural network using a high resolution video monitor as a programmable associative memory is proposed. Experiments and computer simulationsof the system have been conducted. The superior resolution and the number of graylevels of the video monitor lead to the implementation of a larger number of neuronsand a larger dynamic range. The system operates in a high speed asynchronous modedue to the parallel feedback loop. The programmability of the system permits the use of the Orthogonal Projection(OP) and the Multilevel Recognition (MR) algorithms to increase the error correction ability of the network. Using current integrated optics and electronic technology this optical neural system attains high learning and operational speed. I.INTRODUCTION In recent years attention has been made to the problems concerning optical implementation of neural networks. Recently, a 2- dimensional optical neural network has been synthesized by Farhat and Psaltis et al, for which they used the basic concept of
Asking the right question: Formulating effective search strategies for electronic databases

Abstract This article describes a simple technique that enables students to practice skills in formulating search strategies for electronic databases. Currently used in some library instruction classes at Slippery Rock University, this technique employs cooperative learning and critical thinking skills, requires relatively little time, and is effective with both undergraduates and graduates. In particular this technique clearly demonstrates that information retrieval is greatly affected by the manner in which the questioned is asked.
Prostaglandin E and mitogenic stimulation of human lymphocytes in serum-free medium.

Abstract Sera used in cell cultures contain significant amount of prostaglandins (PGs). In order to vaoid any effects of contaminating PGs, the present study employed a serum-free culture medium and confirmed the inhibitory effect of prostaglandin E (PGE) on the human lymphocyte activation which had been observed previously employing a serum-containing medium. PGE1 displayed a significantly stronger inhibitory effect on the cells than previously shown. Furthermore, reported enhancement of PGE synthesis by mitogen-activated lymphocytes could not be reproduced.
Mechanisms of cyclic deformation of NiAl single crystals at high temperatures

Cubic-oriented NiAl single crystals were subjected to [epsilon] = [epsilon][sub m] [+-] 0.5% cyclic strain histories at 750 and 850 C. For [epsilon][sub m] = 0%, the material initially strain-softened with re-arrangement of the dislocation structure. Stable cyclic responses revealed predominantly kinematic hardening for [epsilon] = [+-]0.5%, and isotropic hardening during monotonic deformation of 35%. The types of interactions between gliding and forest dislocations from the active slip systems, viz. (110) , were studied based on an idealization of the dislocation configurations observed in TEM foils. The total slip plane glide resistance was found to be mainly due to lattice resistance and to forest dislocations, [approx] 70% of which were found to be impenetrable. An idealized model of the dislocation network revealed that appreciable plastic flow (i.e. > 0.01%) requires obstacle bypassing. Bypassing results in the formation of dipoles in gliding screw dislocations which contribute to kinematic hardening. As dislocations travel larger distances for [epsilon] > 0.5%, they develop sessile segments and tangles and the dislocation density increases beyond the 3 [mu]m[sup [minus]2] needed to balance recovery, to 13.8 [mu]m[sup [minus]2] at [epsilon][sub m] = 35%, within 3% of that predicted by the model.
Conserved and unique sequences in the 3'-untranslated region of rat smooth-muscle alpha-actin mRNA.

Abstract We have isolated a cDNA clone corresponding to rat smooth-muscle α-actin mRNA [Hsu and Frankel J. Biol. Chem. 262 (1987) 9594–9600]. We present here the sequence of the 3'-untranslated region (3'-UTR) of the cDNA. By comparison with the reported sequence of the chicken gene, this 3 ' -UTR region contains a conserved 36-bp sequence and a unique 48-bp G + C-rich sequence. An RNA probe containing only the 3 ' -UTR of the cDNA was synthesized and shown to be specific for smooth-muscle α-actin message.
Superconducting current switches for multiple superconducting critical current samples

Abstract A superconducting current switch is described, several of which can be stacked in a parallel array to allow the selection of a given sample to receive the high-current input from two current leads from the outside. The switch is a coil of superconducting wire which, when driven normal by a heater, shunts the current to a parallel, less-resistive leg. If such switches are stacked in parallel and (n − 1) driven normal, all current goes through the superconducting member and its related sample. The configuration described here employs six switches with a test-current capability of 112 A to any sample.
Terms of service, cramped budgets, and good library citizenship: the Netflix dilemma

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the implications of libraries using Netflix to supplement their own audiovisual collections.Design/methodology/approach – A review of the current discussion regarding breaking terms of service is presented along with several complications that arise from libraries disregarding the Netflix terms of service agreement.Findings – The problem of providing patrons with access to materials that the library cannot afford to purchase and which cannot be acquired via interlibrary loan has no simple answer. Librarians may be in a unique position to encourage changes to terms of service that may be more friendly to lending institutions, but only if they do not squander their legitimacy by disregarding current terms.Research limitations/implications – Most of the conversation is based on anecdote and recent practice. Very little has been written on how to fix this problem.Practical implications – This paper brings this issue to the forefront in an effort to engage libr...