cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Promiscuous DNA Packaging Machine from Bacteriophage T4

Complex viruses are assembled from simple protein subunits by sequential and irreversible assembly. During genome packaging in bacteriophages, a powerful molecular motor assembles at the special portal vertex of an empty prohead to initiate packaging. The capsid expands after about 10%–25% of the genome is packaged. When the head is full, the motor cuts the concatemeric DNA and dissociates from the head. Conformational changes, particularly in the portal, are thought to drive these sequential transitions. We found that the phage T4 packaging machine is highly promiscuous, translocating DNA into finished phage heads as well as into proheads. Optical tweezers experiments show that single motors can force exogenous DNA into phage heads at the same rate as into proheads. Single molecule fluorescence measurements demonstrate that phage heads undergo repeated initiations, packaging multiple DNA molecules into the same head. These results suggest that the phage DNA packaging machine has unusual conformational plasticity, powering DNA into an apparently passive capsid receptacle, including the highly stable virus shell, until it is full. These features probably led to the evolution of viral genomes that fit capsid volume, a strikingly common phenomenon in double-stranded DNA viruses, and will potentially allow design of a novel class of nanocapsid delivery vehicles.
The effect of spinal cord transection on motor units in cat medial gastrocnemius muscles

We studied the properties of whole medial gastrocnemius (MG) and soleus muscles, and of 74 individual MG motor units in three cats with long-term complete low thoracic spinal transection (TS). All animals remained paraplegic and there was considerable atrophy of MG and soleus muscles. Motor units in the MG pool were readily classified into the same groups, types FF, F(int), FR, and S, found in normal MG, but tetanic force outputs and mean fiber areas for the corresponding muscle fiber types were decreased in all unit types as were isometric twitch contraction times. The proportion of type F(int) motor units was greater (19.0%) than expected from normal samples (5.8%) and this was also true of the corresponding type 2AB muscle fibers (6.9% in TS vs 3.3% in controls). In addition, FR and S units were less numerous (17.5% each) than in control muscles (23.0% and 25.2%, respectively), and histochemical examination revealed a similar decrease in the percentage of type 2A (11.6%) and 1 (16.4%) fibers compared with controls (20.0% and 30.5%, respectively). The changes found in chronic paraplegic atrophy were different in some details from those found after chronic simple limb immobilization.
Cloning and characterization of a novel WD-40 repeat protein that dramatically accelerates osteoblastic differentiation.

Abstract The bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) play a pivotal role in endochondral bone formation. Using differential display polymerase chain reaction, we have identified a novel gene, named BIG-3 (BMP-2-induced gene 3kb), that is induced as a murine prechondroblastic cell line, MLB13MYC clone 17, acquires osteoblastic features in response to BMP-2 treatment. The 3-kilobase mRNA encodes a 34-kDa protein containing seven WD-40 repeats. Northern and Western analyses demonstrated that BIG-3 mRNA and protein were induced after 24 h of BMP-2 treatment. BIG-3 mRNA was expressed in conditionally immortalized murine bone marrow stromal cells, osteoblasts, osteocytes, and growth plate chondrocytes, as well as in primary calvarial osteoblasts. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated that BIG-3 was expressed in the osteoblasts of calvariae isolated from mouse embryos. To identify a role for BIG-3 in osteoblast differentiation, MC3T3-E1 cells were stably transfected with the full-length coding region of BIG-3 (MC3T3E1-BIG-3) cloned downstream of a cytomegalovirus promoter in pcDNA3.1. Pooled MC3T3E1-BIG-3 clones expressed alkaline phosphatase activity earlier and achieved a peak level of activity 10-fold higher than cells transfected with the empty vector (MC3T3E1-EV) at 14 days. Cyclic AMP production in response to parathyroid hormone was increased 10- and 14-fold at 7 and 14 days, respectively, in MC3T3E1-BIG-3 clones, relative to MC3T3E1-EV clones. This increase in cAMP production was associated with an increase in PTH binding. Expression of BIG-3 increased mRNA levels encoding Cbfa1, type I collagen, and osteocalcin and accelerated formation of mineralized nodules. In conclusion, we have identified a novel WD-40 protein, induced by BMP-2 treatment, that dramatically accelerates the program of osteoblastic differentiation in stably transfected MC3T3E1 cells.
Unsteady Subsonic Collocation Method for Wings with and without Control Surfaces

A collocation method is presented for determining aerodynamic loadings on arbitrary planar wings with control surfaces in oscillatory subsonic flow. Functions that are applicable to oscillating full or partial span control surfaces on either the leading or trailing edge are presented. Techniques for treating the kernel function singularities are then applied to the integration of the control surface pressure functions. Rules developed for steady flow are used to determine optimum sets of excess integration points and downwash point arrays. The method is finally verified through comparison with other theories and experiment for several wings with control surfaces. The method is shown to be more efficient than finite element methods.
Investigating freshwater periphyton community response to uranium with phospholipid fatty acid and denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis analyses

Periphyton communities can be used as monitors of ecosystem health and as indicators of contamination in lotic systems. Measures of biomass, community structure, and genetic diversity were used to investigate impacts of uranium (U) exposure on periphyton. Laboratory exposures of periphyton in river water amended with 238U were performed for 5 days, followed by 2 days of U depuration in unamended river water. Productivity as measured by biomass was not affected by concentrations up to 100 microg238U L(-1). Phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) profiles and denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) banding patterns revealed no changes in community or genetic structure related to U exposure. We suggest that the periphyton community as a whole was not significantly impacted by exposures of 238U up to a concentration of 100 microgL(-1). These findings have significance for the assessment and prediction of U impacts on aquatic ecosystems.
Permeability Microstratification in Natural Sandstones

Spherical flow tests in sandstones indicated a strong tendency for flow to follow the natural bedding planes. These results suggested that a cylindrical flow pattern be studied in the same rock. The latter tests for the 10 samples studied, showed an unexpected type of microstratification. The flow took place in thin (0.1 in. thick) horizontal laminae. The apparent permeability of adjacent laminae varied widely in many cases. It is believed that this type of microstratification can cause premature breakthroughs and poor performances in gas cycling and miscible displacement projects.
Inadvertent stent extraction six months after implantation by an entrapped cutting balloon.

We report a case of extraction of a restenosed aorto-ostial stent by an entrapped cutting balloon that had inadvertently been passed through a protruding stent cell. Cathet Cardiovasc Intervent 2001;53:415–419. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Scaling up a Mobile Telemedicine Solution in Botswana: Keys to Sustainability

Effective health care delivery is significantly compromised in an environment where resources, both human and technical, are limited. Botswana’s health care system is one of the many in the African continent with few specialised medical doctors, thereby posing a barrier to patients’ access to health care services. In addition, the traditional landline and non-robust Information Technology (IT) network infrastructure characterised by slow bandwidth still dominates the health care system in Botswana. Upgrading of the landline IT infrastructure to meet today’s health care demands is a tedious, long and expensive process. Despite these challenges, there still lies hope in health care delivery utilising wireless telecommunication services. Botswana has recently experienced a tremendous growth in the mobile telecommunication industry coupled with an increase in the number of individually owned mobile devices. This growth inspired the Botswana-UPenn Partnership (BUP) to collaborate with local partners to explore using mobile devices as tools to improve access to specialised health care delivery. Pilot studies were conducted across four medical specialties, including radiology, oral medicine, dermatology and cervical cancer screening. Findings from the studies became vital evidence in support of the first scale-up project of a mobile telemedicine solution in Botswana, also known as “Kgonafalo”. Some technical and social challenges were encountered during the initial studies, such as malfunctioning of mobile devices, accidental damage of devices and cultural misalignment between IT and healthcare providers. These challenges brought about lessons learnt, including a strong need for unwavering senior management support, establishment of solid local public-private partnerships, and efficient project sustainability plans. Sustainability milestones included the development and signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Botswana government and private telecommuni
Dynamic Changes of Smooth Muscle and Endothelial Markers in the Early Healing Process of Dacron Vascular Grafts in the Dog, Using RT-PCR.

Previous studies of neointima formation on Dacron vascular grafts mainly focused on the late stages using immunohistochemistry staining for von Willebrand factor (vWF) and smooth muscle (SM) α-actin. However, it is impossible to use immunohistochemistry to study the early events of neointima formation, because graft samples lack sufficient cellular material. Therefore, we used reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to demonstrate dynamic changes of SM and endothelial markers during the early stages of neointima formation. Preclotted Dacron grafts were implanted in the descending thoracic aorta of 14 mongrel dogs. Specimens were retrieved at 1–4 weeks. Total RNAs were extracted from mid-portion of graft flow surfaces, and RT-PCR for vWF, SM myosin heavy chain (MHC), and SM α-actin were performed and expressed as a ratio to the ribosome s17 signal. SM MHC and vWF mRNA expression was low at 1–2 weeks but elevated at 3–4 weeks (P<0.05). However, SM α-actin mRNA levels were expressed consistently throughout the study period. At 3–4 weeks, vWF mRNA expression was inversely correlated to thrombus formation on the graft flow surface. Increased expressions of SM MHC and vWF mRNA corresponded to the formation of neointima and an endothelial layer at the later stages. However, SM α-actin mRNA expression did not vary during the healing process. The application of RT-PCR should permit further studies of gene regulation in the early vascular graft healing process in vivo. This model can also be used to study the molecular events that are involved in SM cell differentiation.
Sedative-hypnotic anomalies related to dose of pentobarbital in long-sleep and short-sleep selectively-bred mice.

Abstract Hypnotic effects following administration of three doses of pentobarbital were evaluated in mice selectively-bred for differential hypnotic sensitivity to ethanol. Although the ethanol-sensitive Long-Sleep (LS) line displays greater sedation to a wide variety of CNS depressants (alcohols, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, general anesthetics), when compared to the ethanol-insensitive Short-Sleep (SS) line, the response pattern to pentobarbital remains equivocal. Thus, to clarify the effect of pentobarbital, certain variables (dose, sex, circadian rhythmicity) believed to be important in the expression of sleep time were evaluated. For all doses examined “sex” and “time of day tested” impacted on sleep time. With these provisos, 40 mg/kg consistently induced shorter sleep time in SS mice. The 60 mg/kg dose either failed to distinguish these two lines, or induced greater sleep times in the SS mice. The 80 mg/kg dose tended to have the same effect as the 60 mg/kg dose, but to a greater degree. Overall, it appears that for each line the dose response curve for pentobarbital is sigmoidal, but that the slope of the curve for the middle range of doses is greater for the SS line. Since pentobarbital has a unique effect on these lines of mice that is dissimilar to those reported for other barbiturates, the implication is that an additional factor, that is unimportant for other barbiturates, is essential for pentobarbital-induced hypnosis. Factors that could be responsible for this effect include differential metabolism or Gabaergic receptor dynamics.
Statistical Analysis of Forecasting Models across the North Slope of Alaska during the Mixed-Phase Arctic Clouds Experiment

Abstract The National Centers for Environmental Prediction’s (NCEP) Eta Model, the models of the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) Global Modeling and Assimilation Office (GMAO) models, and the Regional Atmospheric Modeling System (RAMS) model are all examined during the Mixed-Phase Arctic Clouds Experiment (MPACE) that took place from 27 September through 22 October 2004. During two intensive observation periods, soundings were launched every 6 h from four sites across the North Slope of Alaska (NSA): Barrow, Atqasuk, Oliktok Point, and Toolik Lake. Measurements of temperature, moisture, and winds, along with surface measurements of radiation and cloud cover, were compared to model outputs from the Eta, ECMWF, GMAO, and RAMS models using the bootstrap statistical technique to ascertain if differences in model performance were statistically significant. Ultimately, three synoptic regimes controlled NSA weather during t...
Teaching simulation to undergraduate liberal arts students

Few colleges and universities in the United States teach simulation courses to undergraduate liberal arts students. Simulation was born and grew up in engineering, but it may attain its greatest sophistication in a new realm, the liberal arts. This paper suggests that a course in simulation for undergraduate liberal arts students is important and presents a course outline for it. Our experience with teaching the course is presented.
Inclination distributions and size measurements of hemlock and red spruce needles.

Needle inclination angle distributions were plotted for 5 and 10 deg intervals for two hemlock trees and one red spruce. The distributions for the hemlock and spruce were similar, with the peak normal angle occurring between 10 and 20 deg. These distributions are between two theoretical (planophile and spherical) leaf angle distributions. The results can be used as an input to radiative transfer models that require a distribution of the orientation of the scattering elements of the canopy.
Independent Calculation of Dose from a Helical TomoTherapy Unit

Conventional monitor unit (MU) verification calculations are not applicable for TomoTherapy treatments where intensity-modulated doses are delivered in an arc-therapy mode based on elapsed time. A new calculation algorithm has been developed for independently verifying doses calculated by the TomoTherapy treatment planning system. The algorithm is designed to confirm the dose to a point in a high dose, low dose-gradient region. Patient data used by the algorithm include the radiological depth to the point for each projection angle and the treatment sinogram. The algorithm uses common dosimetric functions [tissue phantom ratio ( TPR ) and output factor ( S cp )] combined with lateral and longitudinal beam profile data to quantify the off-axis dose dependence. Machine data for the dosimetric functions were measured on the TomoTherapy machine and simulated using the TomoTherapy treatment planning system. Point dose calculations were made for several test phantoms and for 97 patient treatment plans. Comparisons with Tomotherapy-predicted point doses for the phantom treatment plans demonstrated agreement within 2% for both on-axis and off-axis planning target volumes (PTVs). Similar comparisons with TomoTherapy-predicted point doses for the patient treatment plans also showed good agreement. For calculations at sites other than lung and superficial PTVs, agreement between the calculations was within 2% for 94% of the patient calculations (64 of 68). Calculations within lung and superficial PTVs overestimated the dose by an average of 3.1% ( s =2.4%) and 3.2% ( s =2.2%), respectively. S ystematic errors within lung are probably due to the weakness of the algorithm in correcting for missing tissue and/or tissue density heterogeneities, whereas errors encountered within superficial PTVs probably result from the algorithm overestimating the scatter dose within the patient. Our results demonstrate that for the majority of cases, the algorithm could be used without further refinement to independently verify patient treatment plans.
Suppression of cell growth and invasion by miR-205 in breast cancer

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous, small, non-coding RNAs, which are capable of silencing gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. In this study, we report that miR-205 is significantly underexpressed in breast tumor compared to the matched normal breast tissue. Similarly, breast cancer cell lines, including MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231, express a lower level miR-205 than the non-malignant MCF-10A cells. Of interest, ectopic expression of miR-205 significantly inhibits cell proliferation and anchorage independent growth, as well as cell invasion. Furthermore, miR-205 was shown to suppress lung metastasis in an animal model. Finally, western blot combined with the luciferase reporter assays demonstrate that ErbB3 and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) are direct targets for miR-205, and this miR-205-mediated suppression is likely through the direct interaction with the putative miR-205 binding site in the 3′-untranslated region (3′-UTR) of ErbB3 and VEGF-A. Together, these results suggest that miR-205 is a tumor suppressor in breast cancer.
Use of Segmental Measures to Estimate Stature in Children With Cerebral Palsy

Background: The assessment of stature in children with cerebral palsy is difficult. This study tested the clinical utility of the segmental measures of upper-arm length, tibial length, and knee height as proxies for stature in children with cerebral palsy. Methods: The study included 211 sets of measurements made in 172 children with cerebral palsy attending an outpatient clinic at a pediatric rehabilitation center during a 2-year period. Forty-three percent were female, 20% black, 31% diplegic or hemiplegic, and 52% nonambulatory. An observer measured weight, head circumference, recumbent length or standing height, upper-arm length, tibial length, knee height, midarm circumference, triceps skinfold, and subscapular skinfold. Results: The correlation coefficients were as follows: upper-arm length and stature,.97 (95% confidence interval,.95 to.98) (R2=.94); tibial length and stature,.97 (95% confidence interval,.96 to.98) (R2=.94); and knee height and stature,.98 (95% confidence interval, .98 to .99) (R2=.97). The linear regression equations were used to develop formulas for the estimation of stature from a segmental measure. Conclusions: Upper-arm length, tibial length, and knee height are all reliable and valid proxies for stature in children with cerebral palsy up to 12 years of age. We recommend that either knee height or tibial length be measured in the routine anthropometry of children with cerebral palsy who cannot be measured by standard techniques. Estimates of stature can then be calculated and plotted on standard growth charts. (Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 1995;149:658-662)
Ovarian hyperstimulation associated with the sole use of leuprolide for ovarian suppression

An IVF patient who was placed on leuprolide therapy prior to ovulation induction to improve ovarian response developed moderate ovarian hyperstimulation from the sole use of the GnRH agonist. Clinicians should be aware of this possible outcome.
A synthetic superoxide dismutase/catalase mimetic EUK-207 mitigates radiation dermatitis and promotes wound healing in irradiated rat skin

In the event of a radionuclear attack or nuclear accident, the skin would be the first barrier exposed to radiation, though skin injury can progress over days to years following exposure. Chronic oxidative stress has been implicated as being a potential contributor to the progression of delayed radiation–induced injury to skin and other organs. To examine the causative role of oxidative stress in delayed radiation–induced skin injury, including impaired wound healing, we tested a synthetic superoxide dismutase (SOD)/catalase mimetic, EUK-207, in a rat model of combined skin irradiation and wound injury. Administered systemically, beginning 48 hours after irradiation, EUK-207 mitigated radiation dermatitis, suppressed indicators of tissue oxidative stress, and enhanced wound healing. Evaluation of gene expression in irradiated skin at 30 days after exposure revealed a significant upregulation of several key genes involved in detoxication of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. This gene expression pattern was primarily reversed by EUK-207 therapy. These results demonstrate that oxidative stress has a critical role in the progression of radiation-induced skin injury, and that the injury can be mitigated by appropriate antioxidant compounds administered 48 hours after exposure.
Evaluation of Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization-Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry for Identification of Clinically Important Yeast Species

We evaluated the use of matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) for the rapid identification of yeast species. Using Bruker Daltonics MALDI BioTyper software, we created a spectral database library with m/z ratios of 2,000 to 20,000 Da for 109 type and reference strains of yeast (44 species in 8 genera). The database was tested for accuracy by use of 194 clinical isolates (23 species in 6 genera). A total of 192 (99.0%) of the clinical isolates were identified accurately by MALDI-TOF MS. The MALDI-TOF MS-based method was found to be reproducible and accurate, with low consumable costs and minimal preparation time.
The Growth of Malignant Keratinocytes Depends on Signaling Through the PGE2 Receptor EP11

Abstract Recent discoveries shed light on the importance of prostaglandin (PG) production in the development of skin cancer. Work by Fischer et al. demonstrates that skin tumor promotion caused by ultraviolet B radiation can be decreased by up to 89% by blocking cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) with the drug Celecoxib. A similar study showed that Celecoxib can decrease new tumor formation by 44% in mice that already have tumors. These studies demonstrate the importance of COX-2 and PGs in the development of squamous cell carcinoma. We have explored growth signaling in a model of skin tumor progression. Because changes in PG production have been implicated in skin carcinogenesis, we examined this pathway. We found that malignant cell lines secrete more prostaglandin E 2 (PGE 2 ) than the parental cells. We observed increased expression of COX-1 and -2. We also found that these cells express the PGE 2 receptors EPi and EP4. When the cells are grown in the presence of indomethacin, the growth rate of the malignant cells is decreased. This effect can be reversed by addition of PGE 2 or an EPi agonist to the medium. Thus, we have shown that skin tumor cells depend in part on PGE 2 signaling through the EPi prostanoid receptor for their in vitro growth.
Sensitivity of nonequilibrium systems

Simple mechanisms through which nonequilibrium structures can be influenced by external fields are discussed. It is shown that a very weak gravitational or electric field can have a large influence on selection or creation of structures. In the absence of cooperativity, the influence of a weak field, to the leading order, is characterized by the ratio (Eint/kT), where Eint is the energy of interaction; however, when there is far-from-equilibrium cooperativity, it is shown that the influence of the field is characterized by (EintkT)13.
Relative Photoneutron Yields from the 330-Mev Bremsstrahlung

Relative photoneutron yields were determined for 50 elements bombarded by the 330-Mev x-ray bremsstrahlung of the Berkeley synchrotron. The determinations were made at 90\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} to the beam axis with a paraffin moderated B${\mathrm{F}}_{3}$ proportional counter. Relative yields for elements above atomic number 30 were proportional to ${Z}^{1.7}$. Yields for low $Z$ elements show a correlation with the binding energy of the last neutron. Angular distributions of photoneutrons were briefly investigated, and a Pb transition curve for photoneutrons was run.
Convergence of a matrix-oriented coupled cluster (doubles) method

Abstract The convergence of an iterative matrix-oriented coupled cluster approach is investigated and compared with a more recent implementation. Where the reference wavefunction dominates, the special features of the matrix-oriented implementation result in rapid convergence.
Embedding problems in semiring theory

The main object of this paper is to give various constructions of the universal semiring of a partial semiring and apply them to find conditions for the embedding of partial semirings into semirings.
Cyborg Violence: Bursting Borders and Bodies with Queer Machines

A new killer drug has hit the streets of Detroit and the cyborg RoboCop is hunting down its creator. Entering the warehouse where his computer tells him "nuke" is being made, RoboCop sees the druglord and tells him, "Dead or alive, you're coming with me." Cain laughs as his underlings emerge from the shadows. Carrying guns, they move in and shoot; a boy blasts off RoboCop's hands and a woman lacerates his stomach with laser fire. Forced to his knees, RoboCop vows, "I will kill you" to Cain. The thugs now encircle him and one, maneuvering a huge magnet, picks up the cyborg' s metal body then drops it onto a bed of warehouse scraps. Before RoboCop can move, he is pinned down at his hands and feet with metal stakes. Standing over him, Cain holds up a vial of Nuke and plunges it rapturously into his neck. Armed with tools, the minions approach RoboCop and start dismembering him. They hack, saw, and drill his body; a fade-out follows the severing of his left leg. The fragments of RoboCop are delivered to the precinct police station. What remains of him forms a pile that a technician moves to her lab to start rebuilding. But her bosses-executives at Omni Consumer Products (OCP) who own the police force as well as the cyber-cop-have not yet decided whether RoboCop is worth the cost of reconstruction. Saying he's "just a machine," they halt his repair. But the police who have gathered around the cyber-cop see this differently: "It's like you're killing him." Two scenes later, RoboCop has yet to be reassembled. His body is strung up in the lab; the torso with attached head is hung eerily on a line. The police chief pleads for OCP to save him because he' s "one of ours" and needed back on the job. A corporate executive responds to this that they may just sell him as scrap. When OCP does decide to fix him, they pay particular attention to weeding out any human remains in the cyborg. Yet, when asked who he is at the end, RoboCop answers "Murphy"the person he was before and whose remnants were used to build the cybercop. Told this is an illusion, he is rewired to identify himself as "RoboCop." Shortly afterward, RoboCop walks out the door. When he is greeted by his fellow cops, they call him "Murphy."
Concurrent-vowel and tone recognitions in acoustic and simulated electric hearing

Because of the poor spectral resolution in cochlear implants (CIs), fundamental frequency (F0) cues are not well preserved. Chinese-speaking CI users may have great difficulty understanding speech produced by competing talkers, due to conflicting tones. In this study, normal-hearing listeners’ concurrent Chinese syllable recognition was measured with unprocessed speech and CI simulations. Concurrent syllables were constructed by summing two vowels from a male talker (with identical mean F0’s) or one vowel from each of a male and a female talker (with a relatively large F0 separation). CI signal processing was simulated using four- and eight-channel noise-band vocoders; the degraded spectral resolution may limit listeners’ ability to utilize talker and/or tone differences. The results showed that concurrent speech recognition was significantly poorer with the CI simulations than with unprocessed speech. There were significant interactions between the talker and speech-processing conditions, e.g., better tone and syllable recognitions with the male-female condition for unprocessed speech, and with the male-male condition for eight-channel speech. With the CI simulations, competing tones interfered with concurrent-tone and syllable recognitions, but not vowel recognition. Given limited pitch cues, subjects were unable to use F0 differences between talkers or tones for concurrent Chinese syllable recognition.
Nonlinear response and fatigue of stiffened panels

Abstract The surface protection systems of aerospace and aircraft structures are often constructed from discretely stiffened panels. The information that is available indicates that response of surface panels exposed to high intensity surface flow and/or acoustic pressure is nonlinear. A theoretical study on nonlinear response of discretely stiffened panels to random pressures and thermal loads is presented in this paper. The random pressures are simulated in time-space domain and the nonlinear equations of motion are solved numerically by a Monte Carlo type approach. In addition, preliminary estimates of sonic fatigue based on the nonlinear stress distribution of response peaks and fatigue data from constant amplitude tests are given. The numerical results include deflection and stress response time histories, spectral densities, root mean square values, crossing rates, probability distribution, peak distribution and fatigue damage.
Supporting cancer survivors’ participation in peer review: perspectives from NCI’s CARRA program

Purpose Including cancer survivors in the peer review of cancer-related research is increasingly valued as a strategy for bringing the “patient perspective” to discussions of research merit and human subject protection. Because integrating lay stakeholders into peer review poses challenges, this qualitative study explored the perspectives of experienced patient advocates to identify programmatic supports for survivors’ participation.
Exchange‐Rate Coordination for Surmounting the East Asian Currency Crises

This paper investigates the long-run pattern of private saving in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand. These countries have not only maintained saving levels that are currently among the highest in the world, but have also experienced a sustained increase in their rate of private saving over the past twenty years. Using a cointegration approach, this paper empirically examines the economic determinants underlying the saving trends in this group and the extent to which these countries share a common experience with respect to the factors accounting for their strong saving performance. The findings suggest that demographic shifts and, to a somewhat lesser extent, rising per capita incomes have been important factors underlying regional saving trends, with broadly similar long-run impacts across countries. Limited evidence to support a significant and common relation between compulsory and total saving in Singapore and Malaysia is also found.
Early experience with a comprehensive hip preservation service intended to improve clinical care, education, and academic productivity.

Background The field of hip preservation surgery has grown substantially over the past decade. Although open hip procedures reportedly relieve pain and restore function, arthroscopic treatment has increasingly become a reasonable alternative. In 2008, we formed a comprehensive hip preservation service (HPS) to address clinical, educational, and research needs.
Use of interactive videodisc for teaching of pathology laboratory cases.

Images from a generic videodisc called the 'Slice of Life' were utilized to develop computer assisted interactive videodisc instruction (IVI) units for supplemental independent review of the laboratory cases studied in the general pathology course for year 1 medical students. Four units based on laboratory cases (two on ‘inflammation’ and two on ‘neoplasia’) were developed for a dual-screen Macintosh system. With this dual-screen system, specific picture frames from the videodisc could be retrieved on one screen while the other screen displayed the corresponding text. Each unit contained a number of case studies, each of which consisted of a clinical profile, gross picture and description of the tissue removed, sequential photomicrographs at successively higher magnifications from various fields of slides and their descriptions, comparison with the normal histology of the organ involved, interpretation of the observations and comments, final diagnosis, and a quiz at the end. Histopathological features were specifically emphasized. Evaluation of the units obtained from three consecutive classes of students indicated that these units were received as valuable supplemental tools for independent review of the laboratory cases.
Dysfunctional platelet membrane receptors: from humans to mice.

Insights into hemostasis and thrombosis have historically benefited from the astute diagnosis of human bleeding and thrombotic disorders followed by decades of careful biochemical characterization. This work has set the stage for the development of a number of mouse models of hemostasis and thrombosis generated by gene targeting strategies in the mouse genome.The utility of these models is the in depth analysis that can be performed on the precise molecular interactions that support hemostasis and thrombosis along with efficacy testing of various therapeutic strategies. Already the mouse has proven to be an excellent model of the processes that support hemostasis and thrombosis in the human vasculature. A brief summary of the salient phenotypes from knockout mice missing key platelet receptors is presented, including the glycoprotein (GP) Ib-IX-V and GP IIb/IIIa (αIIb/β3) receptors; the collagen receptors, GP VI and α2/β1; the protease activated receptors (PARs); and the purinergic receptors, P2Y1 and P2Y12. A few differences exist between mouse and human platelets and where appropriate those will be highlighted in this review. Concluding remarks focus on the importance of understanding the power and limitations of various in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo models currently being used and the impact of the mouse strain on the described platelet phenotype.
Maternal behavior in the undernourished rat (Rattus norvegicus).

Abstract Undernutrition was produced in rat pups and their mothers by allowing the mothers access to only 40 percent of the food that they normally would eat. Undernourished or well nourished rat pups were fostered on undernourished or well nourished mothers when the pups were 8 days old. Retrieving times and maternal behaviors were recorded for a period of 2 hr. Neither the well nourished nor undernourished mothers treated the undernourished pups significantly differently from the well nourished pups. The undernourished mothers spent more time than well nourished mothers in exploratory behaviors (rearing up and sniffing) and took longer to retrieve their pups. No significant differences occurred in the time spent with the pups or other maternal behaviors. Decreases in maternal attentiveness to pups found in previous studies may be a result of competition from exploratory or food seeking behaviors.
Basketball shooting strategies — the free throw, direct shot and layup

A rationale and geometric parameters for optimal basketball shooting are provided. The premise is that shots requiring the least energy are the easiest to control and thus have the greatest probability of success. The kinematics of the ball movement are modelled and simulated for the free throw, for the direct shot, and for the bank shot off the backboard (the ‘layup’). For the layup, the analysis includes the effects of friction, ball inertia, ball spin and impact restitution. The results provide a means for shot planning and for coaching to improve shooting technique. The advantage of the layup for close-in shooting is demonstrated. Results of numerical parameter studies are also presented, demonstrating the ranges of allowable shooting error for the various shots, and thus also identifying the shots with highest probability of success.
Residues essential for plasminogen binding by the cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor.

The 300 kDa cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CI-MPR) is a multifunctional protein that binds diverse intracellular and extracellular ligands with high affinity. The CI-MPR is a rece...
The development and immunosuppressive functions of CD4+ CD25+ FoxP3+ regulatory T cells are under influence of the adenosine-A2A adenosine receptor pathway

The A2A adenosine receptor (A2AR)-mediated immunosuppression is firmly implicated in the life-saving down-regulation of collateral tissue damage during the anti-pathogen immune response and in highly undesirable protection of cancerous tissues during anti-tumor immune response. Therefore, depending on specific clinical situation there is a need to either weaken or strengthen the intensity of A2AR signal. While the A2AR-mediated immunosuppression was shown to be T cell autonomous in studies of effector T cells, it was not clear how A2AR stimulation affects regulatory T cells (Treg). Here we show in parallel assays that while A2AR stimulation on T cells directly inhibits their activation, there is also indirect and longer-lasting T cell inhibitory effect through modulation of Treg. A2AR stimulation expanded CD4+ CD25hi FoxP3+ cells, which also express CD39, CD73 and CTLA-4. Treg cultured with A2AR agonist showed increased expression of CTLA-4 and stronger immunosuppressive activity. There was a significant increase of Treg cell number after A2AR stimulation. The CD4+ FoxP3+ population contained those induced from CD4+ CD25- cells, but CD4+ FoxP3+ cells predominantly derived from CD4+ CD25+ natural Treg. Thus, A2AR stimulation numerically and functionally enhanced Treg-mediated immunosuppressive mechanism. These data suggest that the A2AR-mediated stimulation of lymphocytes using A2AR agonists should be considered in protocols for ex vivo expansion of Treg before the transfer to patients in different medical applications.
Functional morphology of insect neuronal cell‐surface/glial contacts: The trophospongium

Ultrastructural studies were carried out on the surfaces of insect nerve cell bodies. Some of the neurons were identified, by using physiological criteria, before filling with dye. Their surface patterns were compared, to provide data needed for understanding dynamic relationships with glial cells, in the trophospongium. The data are also needed in connection with interpretation of electrical signals recorded from the somata and of their roles in integration and in learning and memory. The surfaces were found to be extremely complex and also varied, even for neurons of comparable size and function, as well as for different regions of the same neuron, suggesting that the surface is constantly changing as the neuron receives food and loses waste. There is a variety of cytoplasmic types of invagination of neuron somata by glial processes. The invaginations were classified into four easily recognized types: regular, chunky, filigree, and ridge (present only in axon hillock regions). Motor neurons also make reciprocal invaginations into the glial cells that surround them. Some of these extend for distances up to 40 microns from the surface. The effective surface area is increased, compared with that calculated for a smooth surface, as a result of the invaginations, by from as little as 5% for a small interneuron to as much as 12-fold for a large motor neuron. The axon hillock region of all types of neurons is heavily invaginated.
Framing Greater France Between The Wars

This essay analyzes the relationship between France as an imperial nation-state and the discourse of Greater France that intensified during the interwar period. I am interested in the way that the figure of Greater France sought to stage and reconcile – not justify, rationalize, or mystify – structural contradictions between republican and imperial systems of government. I argue that there is an intrinsic relationship between colonial discourse and its corresponding political form. By posing questions about the status we assign to colonial ideology through the analysis of a series of influential colonial texts, this essay pays special attention to the dissociation of nationality and citizenship that characterized a political form composed of a metropolitan parliamentary government articulated with a colonial administrative regime. I hope to reframe the familiar discussion of the proliferating representations of empire that circulated in metropolitan France after World War One. The figure of la plus grande France that developed then allows us to interrogate the French imperial nation-state at a doubly paradoxical historical conjuncture characterized by the consolidation of both the republic and the empire, on the one hand, and by unprecedented crises of the republic and colonial legitimacy, on the other. Interwar imperialism produced qualitative and evaluative distinctions between different French colonies but I will focus on the more general conceptions of the empire as such that circulated through the discourse of Greater France.
A Theory of Arbitrage Capital

We present a model of equilibrium allocation of capital for arbitrage. If asset prices may fall low enough, it is profitable to carry liquid capital to acquire assets in such states. Set against this, keeping capital in liquid form entails costs in terms of foregone profitable investments. This trade-off generates occasional fire sales and limited arbitrage capital as robust phenomena. With learning-by-doing effects, arbitrage capital moves in to acquire assets only if fire sales are steep. However, once arbitrage capital finds it profitable to acquire assets, it requires similar returns elsewhere, inducing contagious fire-sale prices even for unrelated assets.
Adaptive spectral estimation by the conjugate gradient method

This paper proposes an alternative technique for adaptive spectral estimation. The new technique applies the method of conjugate gradient, which is used for iteratively finding the generalized eigenvector corresponding to the minimum generalized eigenvalue of a semidefinite Hermitian matrix, to the adaptive spectral analysis problem. Computer simulations have been performed to compare the new method to existing ones. From the limited examples presented, it is seen that the new method is computationally more efficient at the expense of more core storage. Also, this method is effective for small data records and can implement noise correction to yield unbiased spectral estimates if an estimate of the noise covariance matrix is available. The technique performs well for both narrow-band and wide-band signals.
INVESTIGATION OF FIBER-REINFORCED CONCRETE FOR USE IN TRANSPORTATION STRUCTURES

Results are presented of a laboratory investigation to determine the properties of fiber-reinforced concretes (FRCs) with steel (hooked-end), polypropylene (monofilament and fibrillated), and the recently introduced polyolefin fibers (monofilament) for application in pavements and bridge deck overlays. Concrete properties in the unhardened and hardened states were evaluated and compared. Although the ultimate splitting tensile strength, compressive strength, and first-crack strength were higher in most of the FRCs, when strength values were adjusted for changes in air content, only a few batches had higher strengths. The addition of fibers resulted in great improvements in flexural toughness and impact resistance. Three FRC pavement overlays were applied in Virginia in 1995. The FRCs used in the projects were similar to those used in the laboratory investigation, with similar fiber volumes, types, and sizes. To implement the findings of the study successfully, the performance of the FRC pavement overlays ...
Structures and Physicochemical Properties of Acid‐Thinned Corn, Potato and Rice Starches

The structures and physicochemical properties of acid-thinned corn, potato, and rice starches were investigated. Corn, potato, and rice starches were hydrolyzed with 0.14 N hydrochloric acid at 50 °C until reaching a target pasting peak of 200—300 Brabender Units (BU) at 10% solids in the Brabender Visco Amylograph. After acid modification the amylose content decreased slightly and all starches retained their native crystallinity pattern. Acid primarily attacked the amorphous regions within the starch granule and both amylose and amylopectin were hydrolyzed simultaneously by acid. Acid modification decreased the longer chain fraction and increased the shorter chain fraction of corn and rice starches but increased the longer chain fraction and decreased the shorter chain fraction of potato starch, as measured by high-performance size-exclusion chromatography. Acid-thinned potato starches produced much firmer gels than did acid-thinned corn and rice starches, possibly due to potato starch's relatively higher percentage of long branch chains (degree of polymerization 13—24) in amylopectin. The short-term development of gel structure by acid-thinned starches was dependent on amylose content, whereas the long-term gel strength appeared dependend on the long branch chains in amylopectin.
Dispersion patterns of the ground roll in eastern Saudi Arabia

Seismic surveys on land must be designed so that the source‐generated noise, such as ground roll, is preferentially attenuated before P‐wave signal amplification and recording. The correct specification of spatial and frequency filters requires prior knowledge of the noise properties in the area. We show that the strong Rayleigh wave component of source‐generated noise has a wavelength range which is predictable on a regional scale, using widespread P‐wave velocity measurements in shallow upholes. This predictive capability decreases the number of noise analyses required to map the boundaries between areas with different Rayleigh wave properties. The case history presented is for northeastern Saudi Arabia, an area of roughly 150,000km2. The data comprise 80 noise analyses and a data base of over 10,000 up‐hole measurements of P‐wave velocities, supplemented by maps of topography and geologic outcrops. Examples show that the frequency‐wavenumber transforms of time‐offset records can be interpreted in detai...
Ranking institutional settings based on publications in community psychology journals

Two primary outlets for community psychology research, the American Journal of Community Psychology and the Journal of Community Psychology, were assessed to rank institutions based on publication frequency and scientific influence of publications over a 32-year period. Three specific periods were assessed (1973–1983, 1984–1994, 1995–2004). Findings indicate that there were a large group of institutions that published articles during these periods. Those academic institutions that had the most published articles as well as the largest influence, based on citations by other authors, were identified. Using archival data from the community psychology literature represents one approach for identifying those settings that made substantial contributions to the development and growth of the field. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comm Psychol 35: 967–979, 2007.