cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Diabetes and diabetes-associated lipid abnormalities have distinct effects on initiation and progression of atherosclerotic lesions

Diabetes in humans accelerates cardiovascular disease caused by atherosclerosis. The relative contributions of hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia to atherosclerosis in patients with diabetes are not clear, largely because there is a lack of suitable animal models. We therefore have developed a transgenic mouse model that closely mimics atherosclerosis in humans with type 1 diabetes by breeding low-density lipoprotein receptor–deficient mice with transgenic mice in which type 1 diabetes can be induced at will. These mice express a viral protein under control of the insulin promoter and, when infected by the virus, develop an autoimmune attack on the insulin-producing β cells and subsequently develop type 1 diabetes. When these mice are fed a cholesterol-free diet, diabetes, in the absence of associated lipid abnormalities, causes both accelerated lesion initiation and increased arterial macrophage accumulation. When diabetic mice are fed cholesterol-rich diets, on the other hand, they develop severe hypertriglyceridemia and advanced lesions, characterized by extensive intralesional hemorrhage. This progression to advanced lesions is largely dependent on diabetes-induced dyslipidemia, because hyperlipidemic diabetic and nondiabetic mice with similar plasma cholesterol levels show a similar extent of atherosclerosis. Thus, diabetes and diabetes-associated lipid abnormalities have distinct effects on initiation and progression of atherosclerotic lesions.
Localization of anti-clathrin antibody in the sarcomere and sensitivity of myofibril structure to chloroquine suggest a role for clathrin in myofibril assembly☆

Immunofluorescence microscopy has been used to demonstrate that X22, a monoclonal antibody specific for clathrin heavy chain, localizes in repetitive bands that appear soon after the fusion of skeletal myoblasts into multinucleate fibers. This organization has been found in cultures containing myotubes that develop in vitro from explants of newborn rat hindlimb cells and in myotubes derived from the L8E63 myogenic line. Bands were also prominent in skinned fibers prepared from adult rat soleus muscle and in cardiac myocytes grown in vitro from 4-day heart ventricles. Immunofluorescence banding was localized in the sarcomere as a doublet, with one element on either side of the Z line. Evidence that supports the conclusion that the reaction with X22 antibody is specific and indicative of the localization of clathrin in the sarcomere includes: (1) Identical titration of X22 antibody reactivity with the determinant in coated vesicles and in the sarcomere. (2) Conditions (eg., pH and Tris) that disrupt clathrin baskets or prevent its assembly likewise disrupt the localization of X22 in bands. (3) Chloroquine inhibits both the normal trafficking of clathrin in the cell and X22 banding in the sarcomere. (4) Immunoblot analysis of myotube lysates reveals a single band with an electrophoretic mobility identical to the 180,000-Da clathrin heavy chain. (5) The assembly of clathrin into sarcomeric bands occurs early in the development of the myofibrillar apparatus. Quantitation of the appearance of X22 banding in primary cultures of myotubes indicates that it precedes that of other myofibrillar proteins and that assembly takes place in the following order: X22, titin, myosin heavy chain, actin, and desmin. The assembly of myosin, titin, and actin into sarcomeric bands, as well as X22, is inhibited by chloroquine. Upon prolonged exposure to chloroquine previously assembled proteins are drastically reduced or no longer evident in the sarcomere. On the basis of these results and considering the role of clathrin in intracellular transport and its capacity to interact with actin and alpha-actinin, we suggest that clathrin may have diverse roles in the assembly, integrity, and functioning of the sarcomere and its integration with the sarcolemma. The early organization of X22 into bands further suggests that clathrin may also function early in the assembly of the contractile system.
Aggression and impulsivity instruments: an examination in veterans

To gather useful and meaningful information concerning behavioral traits, instruments must be determined to be reliable and valid for the specific population in which they will be used. The objecti...
Reactions of O2+, O4+ and O2+•H2O ions with neutral molecules

Abstract A selected-ion drift chamber mass spectrometer has been used to determine the rate coefficients and product ions for the reactions of O2+, O4+ and O2+·H2O ions with simple inorganic and organic molecules in the gas phase at room temperature. Comparisons are made with FA and SIFT measurements. The observed reactions exhibit a wide variety of different routes including charge transfer, dissociative charge transfer, adduct formation and switching. Reaction efficiencies are discussed by comparison with rate coefficients calculated from Langevin or ADO Collision theory. The results of reaction with some chlorofluoromethanes are also included because of their importance in the stratosphere.
Effect of substrate mechanics on chondrocyte adhesion to modified alginate surfaces.

Abstract This study characterized the attachment of chondrocytes to RGD-functionalized alginate by examining the effect of substrate stiffness on cell attachment and morphology. Bovine chondrocytes were added to wells coated with 2% alginate or RGD-alginate. The alginate was crosslinked with divalent cations ranging from 1.25 to 62.5 mmol/g alginate. Attachment to RGD-alginate was 10–20 times higher than attachment to unmodified alginate and was significantly inhibited by antibodies to integrin subunits α3 and β1, cytochalasin-D, and soluble RGD peptide. The equilibrium level and rate of attachment increased with crosslink density and substrate stiffness. Substrate stiffness also regulated chondrocyte morphology, which changed from a rounded shape with nebulous actin on weaker substrates to a predominantly flat morphology with actin stress fibers on stiffer substrates. The dependence of attachment on integrins and substrate stiffness suggests that chondrocyte integrins may play a role in sensing the mechanical properties of the matrices to which they are attached.
Genetics of Parkinson's Disease

For the past 40 years, research into Parkinson's disease (PD) has been predominantly the province of epidemiologists interested in pursuing the connection between the disease and environmental factors such as viral infection or neurotoxins. Hereditary influences were actually discounted because of a high monozygotic twin discordance rate found in studies that were later shown to be inadequate and inconclusive. There has recently been a resurgence of interest in investigating hereditary factors in PD when it became more and more apparent that a positive family history was a major risk factor for the disease. Meanwhile, it also became increasingly apparent from neuropathological studies that the common, idiopathic form of Parkinson's disease had, in fact, a pathological correlate, i.e., the existence of Lewy bodies, an eosinophilic cytoplasmic inclusion body, distributed diffusely throughout the substantia nigra, hypothalamus, hippocampus, autonomic ganglia and olfactory tracts. Although candidate gene approaches to linkage in PD families have not been rewarding, a genome wide scan mapped PD to 4q21-23 in one large family with PD with diffuse Lewy bodies, where a candidate gene, alpha-synuclein, resides. This gene encodes a presynaptic protein of which a peptide fragment is known to be a constituent of Alzheimer's disease plaques. The identification of a missense mutation in the alpha-synuclein gene in four independent PD families suggests that at least some fraction of familial PD with diffuse Lewy bodies is the result of an abnormal protein that interferes with normal protein degradation leading to the development of inclusions and ultimately neuronal cell death. There may be common pathogenetic mechanisms involved in alpha-synuclein mutations in PD and beta-amyloid and presenilin gene mutations in Alzheimer's disease.
Microgeographic genetic structure and gene flow in Hibiscus moscheutos (Malvaceae) populations.

Microgeographic genetic variation in populations of a wetland macrophyte, Hibiscus moscheutos L. (Malvaceae), was investigated using allozyme polymorphism. The species is a self-compatible insect-pollinated perennial, and seeds are water dispersed (hydrochory). Six hundred plants were analyzed from eight brackish and two freshwater populations within the Rhode River watershed/estuarine system. The genetic structure of the populations was assessed by fixation indices and spatial autocorrelation analyses. The degree of genetic differentiation among sites and gene flow between all paired combinations of sites (M ˆ) was analyzed using three hypothetical gene flow models. Fixation indices indicated almost complete panmixia within populations, and spatial autocorrelations showed that genotypes were randomly distributed within sites, most likely the result of water dispersal of seeds. Allele frequencies were significantly different among sites, and estimated F ST indicated moderate genetic differentiation ( u5 0.062). Genetic differences between populations were mostly explained by a gene flow model that accounted for the location of populations relative to the tidal stream. The importance of hydrochory in affecting spatial genetic structure was thus suggested both within and among H. moscheutos populations.
Novel approaches and future directions in castration-resistant prostate cancer

Recent advances in the treatment of castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) have started to change the therapeutic landscape allowing clinicians to choose from a broad range of treatment options. Understanding the mechanisms that transform prostate cancer (PCA) into a castration-resistant state has enabled investigators to explore critical pathways involved in such process allowing for rational therapeutic design. These novel therapies complement the modest success that chemotherapy has demonstrated in recent years. In this review, we discuss the different mechanisms that render PCA castration resistant and elaborate on the nonchemotherapy approaches evolving in CRPC. These include agents targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor, endothelin receptor antagonists, angiogenesis inhibitors, immunomodulatory agents, immunotherapy, novel antiandrogens, and delivery of cytotoxic agents via therapeutic antibodies. This timely review coincides with the identification of newer therapies in this setting affirming our steady movement towards better disease control.
Studies on the Use of Permanent Milk Pipelines in Dairy Barns. III. Labor (Time) Requirements for Operation of Pipeline and Conventional Installations in a Stanchion Barn

Summary The relative labor (time) requirements of a pipeline and conventional milking systems used in a 24-cow stanchion barn have been assessed. Premilking, milking, and clean-up operations in the pipeline system required more clock hours than did the conventional systems. However, the data show that more efficient utilization of labor (man-minutes) during the milking operation occurred when the pipeline system was used, as compared to the two- and four-unit conventional system. A modified four-unit two-man conventional system and the two-unit one-man pipeline system had approximately equal labor requirements (man-minutes) for accomplishing the premilking, milking, and clean-up operations.
Efficiency of E2-p7 Processing Modulates Production of Infectious Hepatitis C Virus

Previous studies indicate that the processing of hepatitis C virus (HCV) E2-p7-NS2 precursor mediated by host signal peptidase is relatively inefficient, resulting in the accumulation of E2-p7-NS2 and E2-p7 precursors in addition to E2 in mammalian cells. In this study, we discovered that a significant inhibition of the processing at an E2-p7 junction site is detrimental for HCV production, whether it was caused by the mutations in p7 or by the strategic introduction of a mutation at a terminal residue of E2 to block the signal peptidase-mediated cleavage of this junction site. However, complete separation of E2 and p7 by inserting an encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV) internal ribosome entry site (IRES) between these two proteins also moderately inhibited virus production. These results indicate that optimal processing of the E2-p7 junction site is critical for efficient HCV production. We further demonstrated that disrupting E2-p7 processing inhibits both NS2 localization to the putative virus assembly sites near lipid droplets (LD) and NS2 interaction with NS3 and E2. However, the impact, if any, of the p7-NS2 processing efficiency on HCV production seems relatively minor. In conclusion, these results imply that effective release of E2 and p7 from the precursor E2-p7 promotes HCV production by enhancing NS2-associated virus assembly complex formation near LD.
Comorbid social anxiety and body dysmorphic disorder: managing the complicated patient.

Patients with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) have an obsessive preoccupation with an imagined defect in appearance or, if a slight physical abnormality exists, a grossly excessive concern with it. This preoccupation causes significant distress or impairment of social, occupational, or other functioning. Social anxiety is a prominent component of BDD, and social avoidance resulting from BDD symptoms may markedly impair social functioning. In severe cases, avoidance of social situations in combination with occupational and academic impairment may result in patients becoming housebound. The prevalence of BDD is 1% to 2% in the U.S. population and 11% to 12% in patients with social anxiety disorder. Behaviors associated with BDD include mirror checking, physician visits, hair grooming, use of cosmetics, and social avoidance. Distress over BDD may lead patients to undergo repeated cosmetic surgeries in futile attempts to conceal or correct perceived defects. Additionally, depression and suicide are frequent complications of BDD. Pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatments for the management of BDD with coexisting social anxiety are presented in this article.
Fundamental bounds on decay rates in asymmetric single-mode optical resonators

We derive tight upper and lower bounds of the ratio between decay rates to two ports from a single resonance exhibiting Fano interference, based on a general temporal coupled-mode theory formalism. The photon transport between these two ports involves both direct and resonance-assisted contributions, and the bounds depend only on the direct process. The bounds imply that, in a lossless system, full reflection is always achievable at Fano resonance, even for structures lacking mirror symmetries, while full transmission can only be seen in a symmetric configuration where the two decay rates are equal. The analytic predictions are verified against full-field electromagnetic simulations.
Correlation between vertebral body rotation and two-dimensional vertebral bone density measurement.

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of vertebral rotation, as seen in idiopathic scoliosis, on bone mineral density determination for the lumbar spine. Bone mineral content, biplanar vertebral segment area and calculated bone mineral density of each vertebra from L1 to L4 were obtained for a human cadaveric specimen. The average density for the entire L1–L4 segment was also recorded. This was done with the spine in the midline position as well as in rotation up to a maximum of 60° either side of the midline. The spine was rotated in each direction using 10° increments and two bone density readings were done at each rotation interval. The measured biplanar vertebral segment area increased with increasing rotation from 0° to 50° but decreased after 50° of rotation (r= 0.73, p<0.001). The bone mineral density was significantly negatively correlated with the degree of rotation (r=−0.92, p<0.001). The decrease in measured bone mineral density was nearly 20% when the lumbar spine was rotated from neutral to 60°. This study demonstrates that degree of spinal rotation influences apparent bone mineral density by increasing the apparent vertebral segment area. The measurement change may be as high as 20%. This fact should be considered when investigating scoliotic patients with vertebral segment rotation.
Apparent Weekly and Daily Earthquake Periodicities in the Western United States

Analysis of apparent seismicity rate (ASR) using magnitude ≥1 earth- quakes located in the western United States confirmed the existence of prominent spectral peaks with periods of 1 and 7 days. The number of recorded earthquakes on Sundays for the duration of 1963-2008 is about 5% higher than that on weekdays, and, more significantly, there is a 9% increase of ASR in the early morning compared with that in the middle of the days. Significant similarities in the spatial distributions of the weekly and daily variations suggest that the two types of variations have the same sources and both originate from periodic variations in cultural noise that lead to periodic variations in the detectability of the seismic networks. Comparisons with freeway traffic flow data suggest that traffic flow on the freeways is not the only significant factor in the observed periodicities. Instead, ambient noise from all the ground traffic, operating machineries, and building shaking is probably the major cause of the observed apparent periodicities. The observed temporal variations in ambient noise as reflected by the ASR can be used as objective guidelines for choosing the best time/day for noise-sensitive scientific experiments.
A Very High Resolution General Circulation Model Simulation of the Global Circulation in Austral Winter

This paper discusses a simulation obtained with the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory ‘‘SKYHI’’ troposphere‐stratosphere‐mesosphere general circulation model run at very high horizontal resolution (;60-km grid spacing) and without any parameterization of subgrid-scale gravity wave drag. The results are for a period around the austral winter solstice, and the emphasis is on the simulated Southern Hemisphere (SH) winter circulation. Comparisons are made with results obtained from lower horizontal resolution versions of the same model. The focus in this paper is on two particularly striking features of the high-resolution simulation: the extratropical surface winds and the winter polar middle atmospheric vortex. In the extratropical SH, the simulated surface westerlies and meridional surface pressure gradients in the high-resolution model are considerably stronger than observed and are stronger than those simulated at lower horizontal resolution. In the middle atmosphere, the high-resolution model produces a simulation of the zonal mean winter polar vortex that is considerably improved over that found with lower resolution models (although it is still significantly affected by the usual cold pole bias). Neither the improvement of the middle atmospheric polar vortex simulation nor the deterioration of the simulation of surface winds with increased model resolution shows a clear convergence, even at the ;60-km grid spacing employed here.
Collagenase and neutral metallo‐proteinase activity in xtracts of inflamed human gingiva

Human gingiva was found to contain neutral proteolytic enzymes that degrade native and denatured collagen, and azocoll, a substrate for non-specific proteinases. The best enzyme recovery was obtained when an insoluble gingival homogenate was extracted at 40°C in the presence of 0.1 M CaCl2. The proteinases were found to exist in the extracts mostly in a latent form that could be activated by compounds reacting with sulfhydryl groups of proteins. Enzyme inhibitor studies showed that all three enzymes belong to the group of metallo-proteinases. In gel filtration chromatography the enzyme activity degrading denatured collagen was separated from the two other proteinase activities. When the specific collagenase activity and the nonspecific proteinase activity were compared with Gingival Index, it was found that the enzyme activities were significantly higher in gingival samples that showed clear signs of inflammation than in clinically non-inflamed samples.
The effect of proteasome inhibitors on mammalian erythroid terminal differentiation.

Abstract Objective Murine erythroblasts infected with the anemia-inducing strain of Friend virus (FVA cells) terminally differentiate to the reticulocyte stage after 48 hours of culture in vitro in response to erythropoietin (EPO). The objective of this study was to determine the possible role of proteasome-mediated proteolysis during the terminal differentiation of FVA cells. Materials and Methods The proteasome inhibitors MG132 and lactacystin were used to perturb the normal function of proteasomes during terminal differentiation. Effects of proteasome inhibitors on terminal differentiation were quantitated by evaluation of cellular morphology after benzidine staining and by Western blot analyses. Results Treatment of EPO-stimulated FVA cells with lactacystin or MG132 at later periods of culture increased accumulations of nuclear and cytosolic ubiquitinated proteins and decreased nuclear extrusion to less than 40% of controls. Conclusion Our results suggest that the proteasomal degradation of ubiquitinated proteins plays an important role in the enucleation of mammalian erythroblasts.
A double-isotope method for comparing polyribosome populations: effects of glucocorticoid hormone administration.

A simple double—isotope technique is described which permits a detailed comparison of polyribosomes isolated from "co—homogenates" of livers from control and glucocorticoid—treated animals. By means of this method it is shown that glucocorticoid hormone administration to adrenalectomized rats results in a true reduction in the number of ribosomal monomers and dimers in liver and in a consistent increase in the proportion of large polyribosomes. By specifically excluding the possibility that the hormone—induced changes in polysome size distribution can be ascribed to artifacts appearing during the course of isolation, the results of this study provide an explanation for the well—known enhancement of in vitro amino acid incorporating activity of liver polyribosome preparations from glucocorticoidtreated animals. It is suggested that this sensitive method for comparing polyribosome populations may find use in other systems as well. (Endocrinology 92: 857, 1973)
Growth and Feed Conversion Ratio of Pond‐Raised Hybrid Catfish Harvested at Different Sizes

AbstractA study was conducted to examine growth and feed conversion ratios (FCRs) of pond-raised hybrid catfish (Channel Catfish Ictalurus punctatus×Blue Catfish I. furcatus) harvested at different sizes. Fingerling hybrid catfish (initial weight per fish, mean±SD = 62±2.0 g) were stocked into 25 earthen ponds (0.04 ha each) at a density of 14,826 fish/ha. Fish were fed daily to apparent satiation with a commercial 28% protein feed. When fish reached a predetermined weight (0.454, 0.680, 0.907, 1.361, or 1.814 kg/fish), they were harvested. Fish grown to 0.46 kg and 0.70 kg during the first season had FCRs of 1.61 and 1.59, respectively. Fish carried over for a second season of growth were harvested at mean weights of 0.85, 1.43, and 2.01 kg/fish, respectively. The FCRs of these fish, 1.97, 2.10, and 1.93, respectively, were significantly higher than those of fish harvested in first season. These results suggest it is generally more cost effective to harvest food-size hybrid catfish after one season becau...
Robinson Crusoe: The quintessential economic man?

The tale of Robinson Crusoe strikes a responsive chord in the imagination of many economists. This paper argues that the story of Robinson Crusoe, and the joy economists take in his example, are indicative of the way the discipline deals with issues of race and gender. Crusoe is used to represent homo economics par excellence, yet his self-sufficiency conceals the labor of others. A close reading of the novel reveals the issues of power, sexuality and race that are hidden underneath the storyline of Crusoe's relationship with Friday. The economists' portrait of equal exchange ignores the elements of domination and exploitation between Crusoe and Friday. The absence of female agency in Defoe's and the economists' story masks a narrative structure that, in fact, relies in fundamental ways on gendered representations. This process of exclusion mirrors the lack of recognition in our culture of the economic contribution of women. If Crusoe is taken to be the quintessential economic man, the economists' story i...
A Haplotype-Specific Resistance Gene Regulated by BONZAI1 Mediates Temperature-Dependent Growth Control in Arabidopsis

Plant growth homeostasis and defense responses are regulated by BONZAI1 (BON1), an evolutionarily conserved gene. Here, we show that growth regulation by BON1 is mediated through defense responses. BON1 is a negative regulator of a haplotype-specific Resistance (R) gene SNC1. The bon1-1 loss-of-function mutation activates SNC1, leading to constitutive defense responses and, consequently, reduced cell growth. In addition, a feedback amplification of the SNC1 gene involving salicylic acid is subject to temperature control, accounting for the regulation of growth and defense by temperature in bon1-1 and many other mutants. Thus, plant growth homeostasis involves the regulation of an R gene by BON1 and the intricate interplay between defense responses and temperature responses.
Hydrogen Sulfide Ameliorates Homocysteine-Induced Alzheimer’s Disease-Like Pathology, Blood–Brain Barrier Disruption, and Synaptic Disorder

Elevated plasma total homocysteine (Hcy) level is associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD). During transsulfuration pathways, Hcy is metabolized into hydrogen sulfide (H2S), which is a synaptic modulator, as well as a neuro-protective agent. However, the role of hydrogen sulfide, as well as N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) activation, in hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) induced blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption and synaptic dysfunction, leading to AD pathology is not clear. Therefore, we hypothesized that the inhibition of neuronal NMDA-R by H2S and MK801 mitigate the Hcy-induced BBB disruption and synapse dysfunction, in part by decreasing neuronal matrix degradation. Hcy intracerebral (IC) treatment significantly impaired cerebral blood flow (CBF), and cerebral circulation and memory function. Hcy treatment also decreases the expression of cystathionine-β-synthase (CBS) and cystathionine-γ-lyase (CSE) in the brain along with increased expression of NMDA-R (NR1) and synaptosomal Ca(2+) indicating excitotoxicity. Additionally, we found that Hcy treatment increased protein and mRNA expression of intracellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, and MMP-9 and also increased MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity in the brain. The increased expression of ICAM-1, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and the decreased expression of vascular endothelial (VE)-cadherin and claudin-5 indicates BBB disruption and vascular inflammation. Moreover, we also found decreased expression of microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP-2), postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD-95), synapse-associated protein 97 (SAP-97), synaptosomal-associated protein 25 (SNAP-25), synaptophysin, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) showing synapse dysfunction in the hippocampus. Furthermore, NaHS and MK801 treatment ameliorates BBB disruption, CBF, and synapse functions in the mice brain. These results demonstrate a neuro-protective effect of H2S over Hcy-induced cerebrovascular pathology through the NMDA receptor. Our present study clearly signifies the therapeutic ramifications of H2S for cerebrovascular diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.
Using locally weighted regression for robot learning

The use of locally weighted regression in memory-based robot learning is explored. A local model is formed to answer each query, using a weighted regression in which close points (similar experiences) are weighted more than distant points (less relevant experiences). This approach implements a philosophy of modeling a complex function with many simple local models. The author explains how an appropriate distance metric or measure of similarity can be found, and how the distance metric is used. How irrelevant input variables and terms in the local model are detected is also explained. An example from the control of a robot arm is used to compare this approach with other robot control and learning techniques. >
Design and simulation of a class of spatial reactionless manipulators

For conventional designs of robots, manipulator motions result in forces and moments on the base. These forces and moments may cause undesirable translation and rotation of the base. The objective of this paper is to systematically analyze the fundamentals of reactionless robots. Based on this analysis, a design of one distinct class of spatial robot is proposed. The design is achieved through appropriate choices of geometric and inertial parameters. Due to the underlying conservation laws, the trajectory must satisfy additional constraints. We illustrate the reactionless feature of this robot through computer simulations. We are also fabricating reactionless robots to illustrate the underlying concepts.
Low-resolution photo/drawing classification: metrics, method and archiving optimization

Archiving and re-purposing are automated using zoning analysis that performs segmentation (region boundary definition), classification (region typing) and bit-depth determination. For performance throughput reasons, zoning analysis is often performed on a low-resolution (e.g. 50-100 ppi) representation of the document. At these resolutions, heuristic metrics for classification are required. Reported here are metrics for distinguishing photos and color drawings, and a novel classification technique based solely on the statistics of each heuristic metric. The statistical technique allows ready combination of multiple binary classifiers, and provides a lower classification error than simple voting or metric-confidence techniques. This technique permits new metrics to improve the overall classification. The benefit of this technique on archival optimization is shown.
Erratic Evolution of Glycerol-3-Phosphate Dehydrogenase in Drosophila, Chymomyza, and Ceratitis

We have studied the evolution of Gpdh in 18 fruitfly species by sequencing 1,077 nucleotides per species on average. The region sequenced includes four exons coding for 277 amino acids and three variable-length introns. Phylogenies derived by a variety of methods confirm that the nominal genus Zaprionus belongs within the genus Drosophila, whereas Scaptodrosophila and Chymomyza are outside. The rate of GPDH evolution is erratic. The rate of amino acid replacements in a lineage appears to be 1.0 x 10(-10)/site/year when Drosophila species are considered (diverged up to 55 million years ago), but becomes 2.3 x 10(-10) when they are compared to Chymomyza species (divergence around 60 My ago), and 4.6 x 10(-10) when species of those two genera are compared with the medfly Ceratitis capitata (divergence around 100 My ago). In order to account for these observations, the rate of amino acid replacement must have been 15 or more times greater in some lineages and at some times than in others. At the nucleotide level, however, Gpdh evolves in a fairly clockwise fashion.
Phase-field microelasticity theory and micromagnetic simulations of domain structures in giant magnetostrictive materials

A computational model is proposed to predict the stability of magnetic domain structures and their temporal evolution in giant magnetostrictive materials by combining a micromagnetic model with the phase-field microelasticity theory of Khachaturyan. The model includes all the important energetic contributions, including the magnetocrystalline anisotropy energy, exchange energy, magnetostatic energy, external field energy, and elastic energy. While the elastic energy of an arbitrary magnetic domain structure is obtained analytically in Fourier space, the Landau–Liftshitz–Gilbert equation is solved using the efficient Gauss–Seidel projection method. Both Fe81.3Ga18.7 and Terfenol-D are considered as examples. The effects of elastic energy and magnetostatic energy on domain structures are studied. The magnetostriction and associated domain structure evolution under an applied field are modeled under different pre-stress conditions. It is shown that a compressive pre-stress can efficiently increase the overall magnetostrictive effect. The results are compared with existing experiment measurements and observations.
Harmony within the Walls: Perceptions of Worthiness and Competence in a Community Prison Choir.

Based on theories that low self-esteem is related to criminal activity (Oser, 2006) and high self-esteem derives from competence and worthiness (Harter, 1985; Mruk, 2006), this study measured chang...
3-D TLM time domain electromagnetic wave simulator for microwave circuit modeling

A novel 3-D TLM (transmission line matrix) time domain simulator for electromagnetic waves in structures of arbitrary geometry is described. It computes their response to arbitrary excitation in 3-D space and time, and extracts their frequency characteristics via the discrete Fourier transform. It also visualizes the field propagation in a generated-solution mode (field animation). Furthermore it permits time reversal for inverse problem simulation. It has been implemented on RISC (reduced instruction set computer) workstations and 386 microcomputers. >
Altered Hypoxic–Adenosine Axis and Metabolism in Group III Pulmonary Hypertension

Group III pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a highly prevalent and deadly lung disorder with limited treatment options other than transplantation. Group III PH affects patients with ongoing chronic lung injury, such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Between 30 and 40% of patients with IPF are diagnosed with PH. The diagnosis of PH has devastating consequences to these patients, leading to increased morbidity and mortality, yet the molecular mechanisms involved in the development of PH in patients with chronic lung disease remain elusive. Our hypothesis was that the hypoxic-adenosinergic system is enhanced in patients with group III PH compared with patients with IPF with no PH. Explanted lung tissue was analyzed for markers of the hypoxic-adenosine axis, including expression levels of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1A, adenosine A2B receptor, CD73, and equilibrative nucleotide transporter-1. In addition, we assessed whether altered mitochondrial metabolism was present in these samples. Increased expression of HIF-1A was observed in tissues from patients with group III PH. These changes were consistent with increased evidence of adenosine accumulation in group III PH. A novel observation of our study was of evidence suggesting altered mitochondrial metabolism in lung tissue from group III PH leading to increased succinate levels that are able to further stabilize HIF-1A. Our data demonstrate that the hypoxic-adenosine axis is up-regulated in group III PH and that subsequent succinate accumulation may play a part in the development of group III PH.
Applications of Galois Cohomology

The theme of this chapter is the use of Galois theory for extending the structure theory of algebraic groups. The applicability of Galois theory stems from the fact that solvable algebraic groups are made up from the additive and multiplicative groups of the base field, and Section 1 provides the technical preparations for exploiting this.
Stochastic and dynamic shortest distance problems

In this thesis, we study a class of stochastic and dynamic shortest distance problems, in which the distances are random and unknown. The problems considered are stochastic due to randomness, and dynamic because information is obtained as we go, and the information obtained depends on where we go. We consider the stochastic shortest path problem with recourse (SSPPR), in which the realization of the random arc costs in a graph is learned when the node from which the arc emanates is first visited. We determine the complexity of this problem, and present a dynamic programming algorithm, which amounts to solving a sequence of deterministic shortest path problems. We analyze possible heuristics, that demonstrate the "value of information": the cost savings resulting from the ability to observe at each node, the cost of the emanating arcs. We also study the geometric version of the above problem. We first consider the special case in which a sequence of regions that need to be traversed is given. We assume that the distance function within each region is given by a weighted Euclidean metric. We develop two approaches to solving this problem: a Gauss-Seidel based algorithm, for solving a nonlinear programming formulation of this problem, and a dynamic programming approach that solves a discretization of the problem, guaranteed to produce a solution within $\epsilon$ $>$ 0 from the optimal. We present some computational results comparing these two algorithms. We then study the general geometric problem, called the stochastic weighted region problem with resource (SWRPR). We provide a dynamic programming algorithm to solve this problem, similar to the one that solves the SSPPR. We also develop a new method to solve the deterministic weighted region problem (WRP). This algorithm is easier to implement than the best known to date $\epsilon$-approximation algorithm, and could have a better performance in practice. Furthermore, the same methodology can be used for any metric (not only the Euclidean metric), including certain direction dependent cost functions. (Copies available exclusively from MIT Libraries, Rm. 14-0551, Cambridge, MA 02139-4307. Ph. 617-253-5668; Fax 617-253-1690.) (Abstract shortened with permission of school.)
Model-based prediction of maximum pool size in the ribbon synapse

The synaptic ribbon is a specialized structure in photoreceptor neurons that tethers vesicles prior to release (Figure ​(Figure1A).1A). When a cell is stimulated, vesicles are released from the ribbon and later replenished from the population of mobile vesicles in the synaptic terminal. A train of depolarizing pulses causes the ribbon to alternate between periods of release (lasting Δt = 25 ms) and replenishment (lasting T = 50ms), which occur on estimated timescales of τr = 5 ms (for release) and τa = 815 ms (for replenishment). After the first few pulses, the system approaches a limit cycle, and the amount of vesicles released on each pulse converges to a limiting value, R (Figure 1B). This can be used to determine the maximum available pool size on the ribbon, A. The standard method for estimating A is to measure the rate of replenishment in the limit, and then back-extrapolate from the cumulative release plot to obtain the available pool size at the start of the pulse train [1]. When comparing pulse trains of different strengths, this method yields substantially different values for A, a somewhat paradoxical result. Back-extrapolation assumes, however, that the replenishment rate is constant, even though it is thought to be proportional to the available space on the ribbon [2]. Figure 1 A) The synaptic ribbon. (B) The available pool size, A(t), during a stimulus pulse train. Table 1 Maximum pool size predictions from pulse train data We developed a model-based approach to estimate A from the limiting release R. We modeled the rate of release (resp. replenishment) to simply be proportional to the number of vesicles on the ribbon (resp. vacant ribbon sites), and using the measured timescale τr (resp. τa). By solving the alternating differential equations, we derived a recurrence relation for the release during each pulse, Ri, which we then solved to obtain a closed form expression for Ri and the limiting release R. Specifically, we found that A = cR, where c is a function of τr,τa,Δt,T, and p, with p a release constant that captures the stimulus dependence of release probabilities, and can be estimated from the first release, R1. In contrast to the back-extrapolation method, our model-based estimate for A was similar across stimulus types (Table 1), while p was much smaller for the weaker stimulus. This suggests that available pool size does not change with stimulus strength; instead, differences in release result from changes in release probability.
Neutrophils Play an Important Role in Protective Immunity against Coxiella burnetii Infection

Coxiella burnetii is an obligate intracellular Gram-negative bacterium that causes the zoonotic disease Q fever. Although Q fever is mainly transmitted by aerosol infection, study of the immune responses in the lung following pulmonary C. burnetii infection is lacking. Neutrophils are considered the first immune cell to migrate into the lung and play an important role in host defense against aerosol infection with microbial pathogens. However, the role of neutrophils in the host defense against C. burnetii infection remains unclear. To determine the role of neutrophils in protective immunity against C. burnetii infection, the RB6-8C5 antibody was used to deplete neutrophils in mice before intranasal infection with C. burnetii. The results indicated that neutrophil-depleted mice developed more severe disease than their wild-type counterparts, suggesting that neutrophils play an important role in host defense against C. burnetii pulmonary infection. We also found that neither CXC chemokine receptor 2 (CXCR2) nor interleukin-17 (IL-17) receptor (IL-17R) deficiency changed the severity of disease following intranasal C. burnetii challenge, suggesting that keratinocyte-derived chemokine and IL-17 may not play essential roles in the response to C. burnetii infection. However, significantly higher C. burnetii genome copy numbers were detected in the lungs of IL-1R(-/-) mice at 14 days postinfection. This indicates that IL-1 may be important for the clearance of C. burnetii from the lungs following intranasal infection. Our results also suggest that neutrophils are involved in protecting vaccinated mice from C. burnetii challenge-induced disease. This is the first study to demonstrate an important role for neutrophils in protective immunity against C. burnetii infection.
Randomized sham-controlled pilot trial of weekly electro-acupuncture for the prevention of taxane-induced peripheral neuropathy in women with early stage breast cancer

To investigate the effect of electro-acupuncture (EA) as a non-pharmacological intervention to prevent or reduce chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy of taxane. Women with stage I-III breast cancer scheduled to receive taxane therapy were randomized to receive a standardized protocol of 12 true or sham EA (SEA) weekly treatments concurrent with taxane treatment. Subjects completed the Brief Pain Inventory-Short Form (BPI-SF), Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Taxane neurotoxicity subscale (FACT-NTX), and other assessments at baseline and weeks 6, 12, and 16. A total of 180 subjects were screened, 63 enrolled and 48 completed week 16 assessments. Mean age was 50 with 25 % white, 25 % black, and 43 % Hispanic; 52 % had no prior chemotherapy. At week 12, both groups reported an increase in mean BPI-SF worst pain score, but no mean differences were found between groups (SEA 2.8 vs. EA 2.6, P = .86). By week 16, the SEA group returned to baseline, while the EA group continued to worsen (SEA 1.7 vs. EA 3.4, P = .03). The increase in BPI-SF worst pain score was 1.62 points higher in the EA group than in the SEA group at week 16 (P = .04). In a randomized, sham-controlled trial of EA for prevention of taxane-induced CIPN, there were no differences in pain or neuropathy between groups at week 12. Of concern, subjects on EA had a slower recovery than SEA subjects. Future studies should focus on EA for treatment as opposed to prevention of CIPN.
Preliminary Consideration of Alloys 617 and 230 for Generation IV Nuclear Reactor Applications

Alloys 617 and 230 are currently identified as two leading candidate metallic materials in the down selection for applications at temperatures above 760°C in the Gen IV Nuclear Reactor Systems. Qualifying the materials requires significant information related to Codification, mechanical behavior modeling, metallurgical stability, environmental resistance, and many other aspects. In the present paper, material requirements for the Gen IV Nuclear Reactor Systems are discussed; certain available information regarding the two alloys under consideration for the intended applications are reviewed and analyzed. Suggestions are presented for further R&D activities for the materials selection.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Comments on Simulation

The uses of simulation are discussed along with a brief examination of when it is appropriate to use simulation. Strengths and weaknesses of the basic data in this field are treated. Finally, prospects for the future are considered.
Young at Heart: A Perspective for Advancing Research on Play in Adulthood

Developmental and animal research has established play as important to well-being, yet little is known about implications of play by human adults, particularly within close relationships, where it is most likely to occur. Although this is an important emerging topic for psychology, several obstacles have impeded research in this area, including definitional issues and the lack of a guiding framework. In this article, we direct attention to this neglected research area and propose a perspective on play in adulthood that provides a definition of the construct (a behavior or activity that is carried out with the goal of amusement and fun, involves an enthusiastic and in-the-moment attitude or approach, and is highly interactive among play partners or with the activity itself) and identifies potential immediate outcomes (e.g., positive affect, feelings of being accepted and valued, reductions in daily stress) and long-term outcomes (e.g., psychological, physical, and relational health) of play in adulthood, with an emphasis on play occurring within the context of close relationships. In doing so, we elucidate important avenues for future research on this topic (e.g., development of standardized measures, examination of biological mechanisms), which is ripe for investigation.