cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Soluble trinitrophenylated proteins and trinitrophenylated cells as specific inhibitors of target cell lysis by cytotoxic T lymphocytes.

Abstract Bovine serum albumin (BSA) substituted in 12 to 15 amino groups with 2,4,6-trinitrophenyl (Tnp-BSA) or carbobenzoxy (Cbz-BSA) or acetyl (Ac-BSA) groups was tested as inhibitor of the reaction in which anti-Tnp cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) lysed syngeneic 51 Cr-labeled Tnp-modified spleen cells [concanavalin A (Con A) blasts]. Inhibition was observed with some consistency only with Tnp-BSA at extremely high concentration (50 mg/ml). To explore the significance of this observation, inhibition of anti-Tnp CTLs was also tested with Tnp-modified cells on which products of the major histocompatibility loci H-2K and H-2D were lacking or different from those on the stimulator cells used to elicit the CTLs. Only those Tnp cells with the same H-2 products as the stimulators were inhibitory, even though all the Tnp cells tested had essentially the same surface density of Tnp (ca 1 × 10 8 groups/cell). It is concluded that effective specific inhibitors of anti-Tnp CTLs have both Tnp groups and the correct H-2 products on the same particle and that the specific inhibitory activity of soluble Tnp-BSA was probably due to its adsorption onto cells in the suspensions used to assay cytotoxicity.
Anharmonic phonon coupling in vapor-liquid-solid grown ZnO nanowires

We have determined quantitatively third-order anharmonic phonon coupling matrix elements in vapor-liquid-solid (VLS) grown ZnO nanowires, via an analysis of the Raman line shape of the E2high phonon mode. The results suggest that the decay of the E2high phonon into the sum of two acoustic phonons is suppressed in VLS-grown ZnO nanowires compared to bulk ZnO. While further studies are needed to elucidate the origin of this phenomenon, we suggest that isotope effects on Zn vapor transport and diffusion through metal nanocatalysts, processes during the VLS growth, can be contributing mechanisms.
Comment: The Methodological and Conceptual Utility of Differentiating Emotional Arousal

The concept of psychophysiological arousal as a component of emotional behavior has a long history, but has not attracted the research attention paid to valence in the burgeoning field of affective neuroscience. The potency of emotional stimuli is often poorly balanced in studies designed to assess appetitive and aversive stimulus processing, and thus I applaud Picard and colleagues’ choice to highlight the arousal dimension of emotional behavior. Any attempt to understand the nature of human emotion must carefully balance the evocative impact of appetitive and aversive processes. By focusing on the contribution of arousal to emotional processing, Picard advances this goal. In this comment I suggest methodological and conceptual refinements that may help to strengthen the multiple arousal theory perspective.
Visual monitoring of autonomous life sciences experimentation

The design and implementation of a computerized visual monitoring system to aid in the monitoring and control of life sciences experiments on board a space station was investigated. A likely multiprocessor design was chosen, a plausible life science experiment with which to work was defined, the theoretical issues involved in the programming of a visual monitoring system for the experiment was considered on the multiprocessor, a system for monitoring the experiment was designed, and simulations of such a system was implemented on a network of Apollo workstations.
The Rise of Modern Humans

Human beings are distinguished most strikingly by their unique “symbolic” way of processing information about the world. Although based on a long evolutionary history, the modern human cognitive style is not predicted by that history. It is not the product of a process of incremental refinement but is instead “emergent,” representing an entirely distinct level of complexity. Physically, Homo sapiens is very distinctive, its peculiarities clearly resulting from a significant developmental reorganization with numerous skeletal ramifications and quite plausibly others as well. It seems reasonable to suppose that the structural underpinnings of symbolic thought were acquired in this reorganization. Still, the fossil and archaeological records indicate that the first anatomically recognizable members of the species predated the first humans who behaved in a demonstrably symbolic manner. So while the biological potential for symbolic thinking most likely arose in the morphogenetic event that gave rise to H. sapiens as a distinctive anatomical entity, this new capacity was evidently exaptive, in the sense that it had to await its “discovery” and expression, clearly through a cultural stimulus that was plausibly the invention of language. One manifestation of symbolic reasoning is the adoption of technological change in response to environmental challenges, in contrast to earlier responses that typically used existing technologies in new ways. As climates changed at the end of the last Ice Age, this new technophile proclivity was expressed in a shift toward agriculture and sedentary lifestyles, precipitating a fundamentally new (and potentially self-destructive) relationship with Nature. Both of the two most radical and fateful evolutionary innovations in the history of life (symbolic thinking and sedentary lifestyles) were thus very recent occurrences, well within the short tenure of H. sapiens.
Transforming growth factor‐β regulation of retinoblastoma gene product and E2F transcription factor during cell cycle progression in mouse fibroblasts

The mechanism by which transforming growth factor beta (TGF beta) exerts growth stimulatory effects was examined in C3H/10T1/2 mouse fibroblasts by study of cell cycle regulation of the retinoblastoma gene product (p110Rb) and transcriptional regulation of the p110Rb-associated transcription factor, E2F. Northern blotting analysis shows that TGF beta and/or epidermal growth factor (EGF) stimulate by three to sixfold the level of Rb mRNA which is also reflected by the increased levels of p110Rb. p110Rb becomes phosphorylated in mid-G1 and further phosphorylated at the G1/S transition. Hyperphosphorylation of p110Rb by TGF beta can be observed when cells are in S phase. TGF beta stimulates by three to fourfold the activity of cdk2 kinase consistent with the observed phosphorylation of p110Rb and also with the possibility that the kinase is involved in phosphorylating p110Rb close to the G1/S transition. Thus, TGF beta as a growth stimulator induces, as does EGF, the phosphorylation of p110Rb during cell cycle progression. Transient transfection of E2F promoter constructs was used to analyze the effect of TGF beta on the modulation of E2F-mediated transcription. The data revealed that TGF beta can stimulate wild-type adenoviral E2 promoter activity by 12-fold. Taken together, TGF beta-induced phosphorylation of p110Rb in mouse fibroblasts appears to exert a positive regulatory function upon genes that have a pivotal role in the G1/S transition of the cell cycle.
Preparing a Detailed Landslide-Inventory Map for Hazard Evaluation and Reduction

A method of preparing a detailed landslide-inventory map has been developed which provides the engineering geologist with the basic information for evaluating and reducing landslide hazards or risk on a regional or community level. For each landslide, the map depicts (1) state of activity, (2) certainty of identification, (3) dominant type of slope movement, (4) primary direction of movement, (5) estimated thickness of material involved in landsliding, and (6) date(s) of known activity. This information is developed from interpreting aerial photographs and examining landslide features in the field. Although preparing detailed landslide-inventory maps involves considerably more time and effort than landslide reconnaissance mapping, these maps are directly useable by planners and decisionmakers as a basis for requiring site-specific investigations prior to development or adopting land-use regulations. (Author/TRRL)
Clomiphene citrate-induced perturbations during meiotic maturation and cytogenetic abnormalities in mouse oocytes in vivo and in vitro.

Abstract Objective: To determine if clomiphene citrate induces temporal perturbations during meiotic maturation and aneuploidy in mouse oocytes. Design: A controlled dose study involving mouse oocytes in vivo and in vitro. Setting: Clinical and academic research setting in a university medical center. Intervention(s): Oocytes were obtained after superovulation and from mature follicles. Main Outcome Measure(s): Cytogenetic analysis of oocytes for aneuploidy, premature centromere separation, premature anaphase, and single chromatids, and the frequencies of metaphase I and diploid oocytes. Result(s): Clomiphene citrate resulted in a decrease in the number of ovulated oocytes and a significant ( P P Conclusion(s): These findings suggest that clomiphene citrate has the potential for inducing aneuploidy in mouse oocytes both in vivo and in vitro and that the rate of oocyte maturation is altered after clomiphene exposure in vitro. Additional data are needed to support the results of this study.
Scattering optimization method for the design of compact mode converters for waveguides

A method for the design of compact and efficient mode converters for waveguides is presented. The required mode converter is modeled in the form of a scatterer placed in the waveguide and then its surface profile is optimized for maximum excitation of power in the required mode. Design examples are provided which show that such converters can achieve efficiencies of above 98%, while keeping the length of the converter less than that of the conventional mode converters. >
Navigating tensions in the process of change: An English educator's dilemma management in the revision and implementation of a diversity-infused methods course

In response to growing concerns among faculty regarding the lack of attention to the bilingual student population in our pre-service teacher education program, the authors engaged in a shared self-study of the process of revising and implementing a secondary English methods course with explicit attention to the special needs of bilingual/bicultural learners. The paper describes how the second author, an English educator, with support from the first author, a mentor/colleague in bilingual education, identified and negotiated tensions and dilemmas that arose in a process of curricular transformation toward culturally and linguistically responsive teacher education practice. The study highlights several points of disjuncture, or critical turning points, experienced by the English educator and the ways in which she navigated the contradictions that resulted at these points of disjuncture through conversation with her mentor. Our documentation and articulation of this process may assist content area teacher educators in negotiating new knowledge and creating strategies for managing the dilemmas in practice that arise in the design and implementation of revised course curricula aimed at supporting culturally and linguistically diverse learners.
Theory of nonlinear optical absorption associated with free carriers in semiconductors

We present calculations of the intensity dependence of the free-carrier absorption in semiconductors by high-intensity light with a wavelength near 10 μm. The paper is divided into two sections. The first section examines the nonlinear absorptive and dispersive properties associated with free-hole transitions in semiconductors, and the second section presents calculations of the nonlinear absorption associated with free-electron intraband transitions in germanium. The dominant free-hole absorption of CO 2 laser light for most p-type semiconductors with a diamond or zinc-blende crystal structure is direct intervalence-band transitions where a hole in the heavy- (or light-) hole band absorbs a photon and makes a direct transition to another band within the valence band structure. The absorption coefficient due to this mechanism is found to decrease with increasing intensity in a manner closely approximated by an inhomogeneously broadened two-level model. We present detailed results for the saturation behavior of germanium as a function of temperature, wavelength, and doping density. Calculated values for the intensity dependence of the index of refraction and low-frequency conductivity are presented. Calculated values of the saturation intensity are also given for most of the other Groups IV and III-V semiconductors. In several n-type semiconductors, the dominant absorption of 10 μm light is free-electron intraband transitions where an electron absorbs a photon and is excited to a state in the same band. The interaction of the electron distribution with the high-intensity light increases the average energy of the electrons and leads to an increase in the free-carrier cross section. For sufficiently high intensities, a significant fraction of the electron density in the interaction region can have an energy greater than the bandgap (relative to the conduction band minimum) by successive one-photon intraband transitions. These hot electrons can relax by creating an electron-hole pair by an impact ionization process. This can lead to the formation of an optically induced plasma and an abrupt increase in the absorption coefficient for light well below the bandgap of the material. Calculated threshold values for the formation of a laser-induced plasma by this impact ionization process are presented for germanium as a function of the lattice temperature and wavelength of the CO 2 laser light.
What determines the tuning of hearing organs and the frequency of calls? A comparative study in the katydid genus Neoconocephalus (Orthoptera, Tettigoniidae).

The calls of five syntopic species of Neoconocephalus varied significantly in their spectral composition. The center-frequency of the narrow-band low-frequency component varied from 7kHz to 15kHz among the five species. Hearing thresholds, as determined from whole nerve recordings, did not vary accordingly among the five species but were lowest in the range from 16kHz to 18kHz in all five species. Iso-intensity response functions were flat for stimulus intensities up to 27dB above threshold, indicating an even distribution of the best frequencies of individual receptor cells. At higher stimulus intensities, the intensity/response functions were steeper at frequencies above 35kHz than at lower frequencies. This suggests the presence of a second receptor cell population for such high frequencies, with 25-30dB higher thresholds. This receptor cell population is interpreted as an adaptation for bat avoidance. The transmission properties of the Neoconocephalus habitat (grassland) had low-pass characteristics for pure tones. Frequencies below 10kHz passed almost unaffected, while attenuation in excess of spherical attenuation increased at higher frequencies. Considering these transmission properties and the tuning of female hearing sensitivity, call frequencies of approximately 9-10kHz should be most effective as communication signals in this group of insects. It is discussed that the frequency of male calls is strongly influenced by bat predation and by the transmission properties of the habitat but is not strongly influenced by the tuning of the female hearing system.
A Usable Past: History and the Politics of National Identity in Late Victorian England

For the past two decades, issues of English national identity have provided a fertile field for historical investigation. In the late Victorian era, the development of professional standards of scholarship within the academy gave a new dimension to historical debates. The bitter quarrels about appropriate research techniques from the 1860s to the 1890s, among James Anthony Froude, Edward Freeman and John Horace Round, acted as a proxy for the vision of national identity that each historian espoused. After 1870, the development of a national narrative focused on constitutional history as its primary vehicle. The battle over historical reconstruction represented a surrogate for divergent views about political values and national identity. What sometimes seemed frivolous scholarly skirmishes, therefore, had a much greater political importance. As a result, the long feud had greater importance than the eccentric personalities of the participants appeared to indicate. For Froude, the Tudor age of discovery and religious reformation represented the best of English character. For Freeman, a strong Gladstonian Liberal, consensus and continuity over many centuries defined English history best. John Horace Round, a Conservative stalwart, thought that Freeman had slanted his historical conclusions to validate his Liberal politics and reinterpreted the Norman conquest to express his own political beliefs. Thus the quibbles about shield walls and other issues provided a terrain for the real cause of antagonism: different views of national identity that history furnished. Each historian constructed a usable past in order to justify contemporary discussions of national identity.
Exploring Phase Change Memory and 3D Die-Stacking for Power/Thermal Friendly, Fast and Durable Memory Architectures

Emerging three-dimensional (3D) integration technology allows for the direct placement of DRAM on top of a microprocessor, significantly reducing the wire-delay between the two and thereby alleviating memory latency and bandwidth constraints. However, the increase in power density of 3D technology leads to elevated on-chip temperature, which results in an exponential rise in charge leakage of DRAM. Consequently, the refresh frequency of 3D die-stacked DRAM needs to be doubled (or more) to retain data at the expense of additional power overhead. In this work, we investigate using Phase-change Random Access Memory (PRAM) as a promising candidate to achieve scalable, low power and thermal friendly memory system architecture in the upcoming 3D-stacking technology era. Using analytical model, circuit- and architectural- level simulations that capture both physical and electrical characteristics of PRAM, we show that the higher temperature of 3D chips is beneficial to PRAM power savings due to its unique, heat-driven programming mechanisms. Moreover, we show that the Through Silicon Vias (TSVs) ubiquitously used in 3D implementations contribute further PRAM power savings due to their substantially lower resistance to the high PRAM programming current. To effectively integrate PRAM into a conventional memory hierarchy, we propose architecture and OS support to address its write latency and reliability disadvantages. We present a hybrid PRAM/DRAM memory architecture and exploit an OS- level paging scheme to improve PRAM write performance and lifetime. Moreover, we leverage the error-correcting capability of strong ECC codes to expand PRAM lifespan and use wear-out aware OS page allocation to minimize ECC performance overhead. Our experimental results show that compared to die-stacked planar DRAM, our design reduces the overall power consumption of the memory system by 54% with 6% performance degradation, consequently alleviating the thermal constraint of 3D chips by up to 4.25°C and achieving a speedup of up to 1.1X. We also show that the lifetime can be improved by a factor of 114X using the proposed endurance optimization schemes.
Microsatellite DNA markers for population genetic studies in the dinoflagellate Karenia brevis

Nine nuclear-encoded microsatellites from an enriched genomic DNA library of the HAB (harmful algal bloom) dinoflagellate Karenia brevis were isolated and characterized. The microsatellites include five perfect (three dinucleotide and two trinucleotide) and four imperfect (two dinucleotide and two trinucleotide) repeat motifs. Gene (haplotype) diversity ranged from 0.153 to 0.750 among a sample of 13 isolates; the number of alleles among the isolates ranged from two to six and pairwise tests of genotypic disequilibria were nonsignificant. The microsatellites developed in this study will provide insight into the genetic diversity of this HAB species and tools that may prove useful in predicting source populations and physiological parameters of individual K. brevis blooms.
Vertebrate Species Introductions in the United States and its Territories

At least 1,065 introduced vertebrate species have been introduced in the United States and its territories, including at least 86 mammalian, 127 avian, 179 reptilian/amphibian, and 673 fish species. Examples in each major taxonomic group include domestic cat, small Indian mongoose, red fox, goat, pig, rabbit, rats, house mouse, gray squirrel, nutria, starling, Indian common myna, red-vented bulbul, brown treesnake, red-eared slider, brown trout, tilapia, and grass carp. We briefly review some of these species and the types of damage they cause. We then review the basic types of methods used for control or eradication of each taxonomic group, including physical, chemical, biological, and cultural methods. We discuss some of the challenges in managing these species, including issues with the use of toxicants, land access, public attitudes, and monitoring difficulties. Finally, we list some ongoing research and future research needs, including improved detection methods, improved attractants, improved barriers, improved capture methods, fertility control, and risk assessment methods (Current Zoology 57 (5): 559-567, 2011).
Multiresolution analysis, wavelets, and probability density estimation

We consider the estimation of the probability density function f(x) of stationary mixing processes using wavelet orthonormal bases. For f belonging to the Sobolev space H/sub 2//sup s/, s>0 we derive precise asymptotic expressions for the integrated mean-square estimation error. >
Ultra-wideband continuous sawtooth generation using RF-photonic technique

We report the first continuous-time implementation of the RF-photonic arbitrary waveform generator. The technique utilizes wavelength-to-time mapping of a broadband optical source to convert spectral modulation into a high fidelity time domain signal. The repetition rate of the system is modified to seamlessly interleave adjacent waveforms. As a proof of concept, an ultra-wideband continuous sawtooth is generated with 260 ps duration and fast 30 ps rise time.
DIFFERENCES IN SPACE USE by COMMON RAVENS IN RElATION TO SEx, bREEDING STATUS, AND KINShIP

Abstract. Group differences in avian space use relate to group differences in resource use and demographic parameters. However, studies that consider year-round, intraspecific variation in the space use of noncooperatively breeding species are relatively rare. A greater understanding of factors relating to intraspecific variation in space use is especially important for managing human-subsidized predators, such as the Common Raven (Corvus corax). We hypothesized that sex, sociality, and the distribution of bonanzas of food should influence year-round space use by breeding and nonbreeding Common Ravens on the Olympic Peninsula of Washington State. We detected differences in space use between breeders and nonbreeders but not between the sexes. Breeders shared little space with their neighbors and displayed strong site fidelity, except in the fall and winter or after the death of a mate, when some breeding ravens moved extensively. Nonbreeders moved widely, were more gregarious, and their home ranges interse...
Unraveling a card trick

In one version of Gilbreath’s card trick, a deck of cards is arranged as a series of quartets, where each quartet contains a card from each suit and all the quartets feature the same ordering of the suits. For example, the deck could be a repeating sequence of spades, hearts, clubs, and diamonds, in that order, as in the deck below.
Localization of multiple pleiotropic genes for lipoprotein metabolism in baboons

We employed a novel approach to identify the key loci that harbor genes influencing lipoprotein metabolism in approximately 2,000 pedigreed baboons fed various diets differing in levels of fat and cholesterol. In this study, 126 overlapping traits related to both LDL and HDL metabolism were normalized and subjected to genome-wide linkage screening. As was expected, the traits were highly, but not completely, correlated. We exploited the information in these correlated traits by focusing on those genomic regions harboring quantitative trait loci (QTL) for multiple traits, reasoning that the more influential genes would impact a larger number of traits. This study identified five major QTL clusters (each with at least two significant logarithm of the odds scores >4.7), two of which had not been previously reported in baboons. One of these mapped to the baboon ortholog of human chromosome 1p32-p34 and influenced concentrations of LDL-cholesterol on Basal and high-fat, low-cholesterol diets. The other novel QTL cluster mapped to the baboon ortholog of human chromosome 12q13.13-q14.1 and influenced LDL size properties on high-fat, low-cholesterol and high-fat, high-cholesterol, but not Basal, diets. Confirming the value of this approach, three of the QTL clusters replicated published linkage findings for the same or similar traits.
A comparative study of two macro-scale models of condensed-phase explosives

Two macro-scale models of high-energy, condensed-phase explosives are considered. The first, called ignition and growth, treats the heterogeneous explosive as a homogeneous mixture of reacting and product species. The second model treats the explosive as two distinct, but interacting, phases. Both models are hyperbolic systems of nonlinear partial differential equations involving balance laws of mass, momentum and energy, and involving assumed constitutive input and reaction kinetics. The two-phase model also involves stiff relaxation terms and nozzling terms that prevent the equations from being cast in conservation form. A high-resolution shock-capturing scheme on overlapping grids, with parallel adaptive mesh refinement, is used to solve the governing equations accurately. The purpose of the paper is to compare solutions of the two models for macro-scale problems involving detonation initiation and diffraction. This is done to illustrate strengths and weaknesses of the models, and to suggest modifications and extensions of the models for further study.
Direct electromyography of the psoas major muscle in man.

Electromyographic studies of the psoas major muscle were performed on five patients with wire electrodes implanted directly into the muscle during lumbar sympathectomy. Recordings made during various activities, approximately ten days after operation, indicated that this muscle has a regular and significant role in advancing the limb while walking and in controlling deviation of the trunk during sitting. The action of the psoas in rotation, abduction, and adduction of the hip was slight and somewhat variable, suggesting a stabilizing function.
High phosphate feeding promotes mineral and bone abnormalities in mice with chronic kidney disease

Background Chronic kidney disease-mineral bone disorder (CKD-MBD) is a systemic syndrome characterized by imbalances in mineral homeostasis, renal osteodystrophy (ROD) and ectopic calcification. The mechanisms underlying this syndrome in individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are not yet clear. Methods We examined the effect of normal phosphate (NP) or high phosphate (HP) feeding in the setting of CKD on bone pathology, serum biochemistry and vascular calcification in calcification-prone dilute brown non-agouti (DBA/2) mice. Results In both NP and HP-fed CKD mice, elevated serum parathyroid hormone and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels were observed, but serum phosphorus levels were equivalent compared with sham controls. CKD mice on NP diet showed trabecular alterations in the long bone consistent with high-turnover ROD, including increased trabecular number with abundant osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Despite trabecular bone and serum biochemical changes, CKD/NP mice did not develop vascular calcification. In contrast, CKD/HP mice developed arterial medial calcification (AMC), more severe trabecular bone alterations and cortical bone abnormalities that included decreased cortical thickness and density, and increased cortical porosity. Cortical bone porosity and trabecular number strongly correlated with the degree of aortic calcification. Conclusions HP feeding was required to induce the full spectrum of CKD-MBD symptoms in CKD mice.
NB4 cells are superior to HL-60 cells as a basis for the Activated Transfected Killer (ATAK) cell platform (P4224)

We are developing a cellular immunotherapy to enable neutrophil transfusions to treat neutropenic infections. We have found that HL-60 cells (AML M2 cells) can be transfected with a suicide trap and activated to differentiate into neutrophil-like cells. However, we now report that NB4 (AML M3 cells) result in far superior neutrophil differentiation by morphology, superoxide production, and CD11b expression. NB4-based ATAK cells possess superior microbicidal characteristics against Staphylococcus aureus, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Candida albicans than HL-60-based ATAK cells. NB4 cell microbicidal activity and morphology are similar to freshly harvested neutrophils.. Our current results confirm marked improvement in performance of the technology platform based on use of an NB4 cell line.
The planning dimension of sustainable urban design

A framework for sustainable urban design that lays out the elements of sustainable form implementable at different urban scales and highlights relationships across the scales is indeed a helpful gu...
Software reliability growth model based on Bohrbugs and Mandelbugs

Recent research characterizes two types of program errors. The repeatable class, called Bohrbugs, always cause the same error with the same inputs. Prior thinking and reliability growth models were based on Bohrbugs, (Bbugs). Another class of errors called Mandelbugs, (Mbugs), are difficult to reproduce even with the same inputs, [1], [2]. Mbugs may be an interaction of inputs with computer storage, where computer storage represents the past history of inputs to the computer system [3]. A small fraction of Mbugs which increase with time, aging-related Mbugs, are ignored in the model. This paper formulates a software reliability growth model for predicting operational reliability of the software as development progresses. Based on prior experience, constant and exponentially decreasing error removal models are assumed. The inputs to the model are error removal data for both Bbugs and Mbugs, recorded during development testing and mean time to failure data from simulated operational tests. Simplified values for the model parameters are developed based on moment estimates. More sophisticated estimates using least squares and maximum likelihood techniques are discussed. The potential for improving the accuracy of reliability estimates by using models that incorporate both Bbugs and Mbugs is discussed with respect to two examples.
Serial Diffusion Tensor Imaging In Vivo Predicts Long-Term Functional Recovery and Histopathology in Rats following Different Severities of Spinal Cord Injury

Abstract The current study demonstrates the feasibility of using serial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) in vivo to quantify temporally spinal cord injury (SCI) pathology in adult female Sprague-Dawley rats that were scanned prior to a moderate or severe upper lumbar contusion SCI. Injured rats were behaviorally tested for hind limb locomotion (Basso, Beattie, Bresnahan [BBB] scores) weekly for 4 weeks and scanned immediately after each session, ending with terminal gait analyses prior to euthanasia. As a measure of tissue integrity, fractional anisotropy (FA) values were significantly lower throughout the spinal cord in both injury cohorts at all time-points examined versus pre-injury. Moreover, FA values were significantly lower following severe versus moderate SCI at all time-points, and FA values at the injury epicenters at all time-points were significantly correlated with both spared white and gray matter volumes, as well as lesion volumes. Critically, quantified F...
Seasoning the Primordial Soup: Hot Topics and Titles in Construction Law

Staying current on construction law issues requires a "dash" of effort. This brief piece summarizes recent publications relevant to Virginia practitioners.
Modelo binomial para la valoración de empresas y los efectos de la deuda: escudo fiscal y liquidación de la firma (Binomial Model for Firm Valuation and the Effects of the Debt: Tax Shield and Firm Dilution)

Spanish Abstract: En este documento se propone un modelo binomial para valorar empresas, proyectando y condicionando escenarios de continuidad o liquidacion de la firma. El modelo se basa en la Teoria de Opciones Reales para estimar el valor de la firma, que resulta de un balance explicito de las ventajas y riesgos de tomar deuda. El trabajo se estructura de la siguiente manera: Primeramente, la introduccion y desarrollo del modelo teorico; luego se ilustra mediante un caso de aplicacion, comparando los resultados obtenidos con el modelo de descuento de flujos de fondos. Se sensibilizan variables como: endeudamiento, tasa de impuesto y volatilidad para analizar el impacto en el valor de la empresa. Finalmente, se describen las ventajas del modelo propuesto.English Abstract: This paper proposes a binomial model for firming valuation, projecting continuity or dilution firm´s scenarios, instead of the discounting cash flow model. The Real Option Theory is used for estimating the value of the firm which results of an explicit trade-off between the advantages and the risk of take debts. The work structure as follows: the model is introduced and developed, and then it is illustrated with an application case comparing the results obtained with the discounting cash flow model. Variables like: leverage, tax rate and volatile are noticeable for analyses the impact in the firm value. Finally it concludes about the advantages of the model proposes.
Suicide is a Property Right; Assisted Suicide is a Contract Right

The Supreme Court decisions in Washington v. Glucksberg and Vacco v. Quill on the constitutionality of physician-assisted suicide leave much to be desired. Although this topic has been beaten to death in the literature, the vast majority of commentators have either missed the main point entirely or touched on it only briefly. Thus, the need to point out the real issue in these cases. Basically, suicide is a property rights issue and physician-assisted suicide is a contract rights issue. Both contract rights and property rights have been disparaged during the twentieth century to the point where they seem to be less than absolute rights that are granted by government rather than inherent rights. Thus, this paper takes what I hope will be an interestingly refreshing and different perspective on what is in fact a very simple issue.
Drug Resistance Gene Transfer as an Antitumor Strategy

The application of gene transfer techniques holds great promise for improved antitumor therapy. The overall goal of gene transfer in the treatment of neoplastic disease is either to augment the body’s ability to eliminate the tumor or to somehow specifically weaken the tumor, in each case relative to other, normal tissues in the body. Other chapters in this volume describe direct molecular, immunological, prodrug activation, and antiangiogenic approaches as genetic antitumor therapeutic strategies. Another approach that has been explored is the introduction of genes conferring resistance to chemotherapeutic agents into normal cells and tissues as a means of protection from the toxic side effects of cancer chemotherapy. The systems that have been the most extensively studied for this purpose are the P-glycoprotein or multidrug resistance (MDR) system, drug-resistant forms of dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR), and O6-alkylguanine-DNA alkyltransferase (AGT), although other systems have emerged as well.
Efficient Adaptation Versus Gains from Specialization: Procuring Labor Services

We combine the traditions of Coase and Adam Smith to look for the most efficient mechanisms in situations where buyers need sequences of human asset services, but only know their sequence one step ahead. The environment has two critical features: (a) multilateral matching allows gains from specialization, but sellers incur specific set-up costs for each new buyer they serve. (b) Bilateral relationships economize on set-up costs, but are burdened by two-sided incomplete information and thus bargaining costs. In a suitable region, three mechanisms weakly dominate others. A bilateral mechanism (a market) is best when specific set-up costs are larger (smaller), when sellers’ costs differ less (more), and when the buyer has more ongoing (intermittent) needs. The bilateral mechanism looks like employment (a sequence of bilateral contracts) when each service takes less (more) time.
Abstract 3965: An algorithm to detect somatic mutations in cancer specimens using mass spectrometric genotyping

Although advances in technology and the biological understanding of cancer pathogenesis have brought the goal of personalized cancer medicine closer, important challenges remain in several areas. One such challenge is the reliable and sensitive detection of somatic mutations in clinical tumor specimens. Somatic mutation detection in clinical tumor specimens is confounded by biological variables such as the percentage of tumor cells in a specimen, stromal contamination, sequence quality (particularly in DNA derived from formalin-fixed clinical samples), tumor heterogeneity and ploidy considerations. These and other experimental factors can lead to allele signal ratios very different from the 1:0, 1:1 or 0:1 ratio expected for a classically-defined SNP. Germline genotyping using the Sequenom MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry platform has been used to reliably detect single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in a wide variety of samples. The automated genotype calling algorithm included with the Sequenom platform falters, however, when the ratio of allele peak signals for a given assay in a specific sample do not approximate the native algorithm9s expectations of frequency, confounding accurate genotype calling by the system. We report here a cancer-specific algorithm for sensitive genotype calling of somatic mutations, based on an independent clustering of raw allele peak data for each assay run, and the identification and stratification of outliers from an empirical background (‘wildtype’) cluster of genotypes. Outliers from this cluster are then evaluated using a number of criteria to determine the quality and performance of the overall assay run, as well as the individual call; these factors include the relative signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of each allele peak, the ratio of variant allele peak height to peak area, the percentage of signal lost in unextended probe (UEP) and relative distance of a putative mutation call from the wildtype cluster In a scatter plot of peak area values. Based on these criteria, a confidence value is assigned to each candidate outlier, allowing for stratification and prioritization of these candidates for validation. We applied the algorithm to samples run against the our OncoMap genotyping panel, comprised of 460 assays interrogating mutations in 33 cancer-associated genes. Candidate mutations produced by this algorithm correlate strongly with those called by users manually, and use of the algorithm increases the sensitivity and reliability of the OncoMap platform to detect somatic mutations in clinical tumor samples, particularly in FFPE-derived material. The algorithm code and documentation will be made publicly available in a form compatible with most Sequenom genotyping platform installations. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3965. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-3965
Attitudes of Women toward Homosexual Behavior as a Function of Veteran Status

Analysis of data from the General Social Surveys: 1972–1992 indicated no difference between 49 women who were veterans of military service and 5402 women who were not veterans in approval of homosexual behavior.
Evaluation of the S-Plus IV.

An evaluation of a Coulter Counter Model S-Plus IV® hematology analyzer was undertaken at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center to assess performance characteristics and to determine accuracy in analyzing both normal and clinical specimens. Special emphasis was placed on the platelet parameter. Precision, linearity, and carryover were found to be well within the manufacturer’s specifications. A total of 222 patient samples were analyzed in the routine laboratory and on the Model S-Plus IV. Coefficients of correlation of 0.99 or higher were obtained for white blood cell count ( WBC), red blood cell count (RBC), hemoglobin (Hgb), platelets (Plt), except mean cell volume (MCV) (r = 0.93). Results from 99 selected normal samples were compared with those from manual reference methods. Coefficients of correlation of 0.98 or higher were obtained for WBC, RBC, and Hgb. For MCV, the correlation coefficient was 0.85 and for Plt, 0.89 was obtained. The lower coefficient of correlation for these two parameters may be a function of the imprecision of the manual reference methods. In a previous study2 with an original Model S-Plus, the Plt parameter occasionally exhibited spuriously high counts. With the advent of third-generation S-Plus instruments, represented by the Model S-Plus IV, the possibility of reporting aberrant Plt values virtually has been eliminated. Data from the current study verify this. However, 93% of the flagged Plt results proved to be accurate, checking slides on these introduced inefficiencies in the laboratory.
Nontarget effects of orchard pesticides on natural enemies: Lessons from the field and laboratory

Abstract The nontarget effects of insecticide programs used to control codling moth, Cydia pomonella L. (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), were studied in large-plot field trials in apples, pears, and walnuts in the western United States. We assessed the health of the natural enemy community by sampling the abundance of natural enemies and by monitoring for outbreaks of secondary pests. The insecticides used in the field tests overlapped those tested in laboratory bioassays. Using these parallel lab and field studies, we examined two hypotheses: 1) pesticides found to have negative effects on natural enemy fitness in laboratory bioassays will predict reductions in natural enemy densities in the field, and 2) reductions in natural enemy densities in the field will result in outbreaks of secondary pests. We found only one clear instance, Forficula auricularia (L.) (Dermaptera: Forficulidae), where laboratory results documenting negative effects corresponded to a significant reduction in field studies (apple). This same instance was the only case where a reduction in a natural enemy population was associated with a significantly increased density of a secondary pest, Eriosoma lanigerum (Hausmann) (Hemiptera: Aphididae). There were several instances where secondary pest outbreaks were associated with unchanged or even increased natural enemy densities. The limited number of field trials, variability in field trial conditions among years and sites, duration of the negative effect relative to sampling interval, sampling efficiency, plot size/inter-plot movement, and compensation by other natural enemies attracted to a large host/prey resource may all have contributed to the poor predictive success. Overall, the laboratory bioassays predicted a far greater negative impact than was found in the field trials.
Lingual Lesions in the Dog and Cat: Recognition, Diagnosis, and Treatment

The tongue plays many vital roles in the oral cavity of the dog and cat. Consequently, lingual lesions can have devastating effects on an animal's overall health. This article provides a review of tongue anatomy as well as a review of the etiology, gross appearance, and diagnostic procedures indicated for a wide variety of lingual lesions. Lingual pathologic conditions that are reviewed include traumatic, metabolic, idiopathic, infectious, immune-mediated, hereditary, and neoplastic lesions. This article also describes current concepts in the medical management of lingual lesions.
Simulation of spatial-temporal asynchronism of East Asian summer's surface-air temperature response to orbital forcing since the Mid-Holocene

By using a fast ocean-atmosphere coupled model(FOAM) and its transient simulation of the past 6000 years driven by orbital forcing,we have studied the character of the East Asian summer surface-air temperature s response to orbital forcing.It is found that spatial-temporal response of East Asian summer surface-air temperature to solar radiation is significantly inconsistent since the Mid-Holocene.Compared with the present,the Mid-Holocene had enhanced summer isolation in the Northern Hemisphere.The surface-air temperature in East Asia,however,had not increased at large.Taking the 35°N as the boundary line,the north was significantly warmer in the Mid-Holocene than in the present while the south had no obvious variation-it had even slight cooling in some areas.Since the Mid-Holocene,the surface-air temperature variation in East Asia has exhibited a linear-reducing trend in the high and middle latitude regions north of the 40°N and a small-scale "U" shape trend in low latitude regions south of the 40°N,where showed a cooling trend before 3kaBP but warming thereafter.This finding is in agreement with the geologic records of the surface-air temperature variation.The asynchronous characteristic of East Asian summer surface-air temperature may result from its different isolation responses due to different thermal inertia between ocean and land.The surface-air temperature over high-latitude land responds to the July's isolation due to its small thermal capacity,while the surface-air temperature over the ocean responds to the May s isolation,lagging behind two months or so due to its large thermal capacity.Affected by ocean climate,the summer surface-air temperature over the south land of East Asia shows a similar feature to that over the ocean.In the precession cycle,the variation trends between May s,June's and July's isolations do not seem to have obvious differences on long time scales,instead they display a notable distinction on a relatively short time scale such as the past 6000 years when the wave valleys appeared one after another,which leads to spatial-temporal asynchronism of the East Asian summer surface-air temperature response to orbital forcing since the Mid-Holocene.The results show that the summer air temperature may not agree with the same season isolation forcing,so it is very important to choose the ruler of isolation when the climate response to orbital forcing is discussed.
Three-dimensional tolerance analysis of engine based on Jacobian-Torsor statistical model

The working mechanism of an engine is the target of analysis in order to consider geometric tolerances which cannot be handled by traditional tolerance chains in engine assemblies. The Jacobian-Torsor model is introduced,and variations and constraints of torsors for features and their joints under the restrictions of size and geometric tolerances are built. Based on Monte Carlo simulation,three-dimensional tolerance analysis for working mechanism with a statistical way is achieved. Compared with traditional tolerance analysis methods,the method based on the Jacobian-Torsor statistical model takes more geometric tolerances into consideration and obtains more accurate results. This model can build the relationship between tolerances of parts and engine performance from tolerance chains' perspectives.