cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Collective Racial Bias and the Black-White Test Score Gap

Anti-black bias is an important focal point in conversations about the sources of racial inequality in schools. Much of the empirical research on this issue has focused on the racial biases of individual teachers, finding that racial inequality in student outcomes is generally worse when teachers have more racial bias. Less is known, however, about how racial inequality in schools relates to anti-black biases that play out at a larger scale within communities. This study begins to fill this gap by examining the relationship between county-level estimates of racial bias and black-white test score gaps in U.S. schools. Data from over 1 million respondents from across the United States who completed an online survey of explicit and implicit racial attitudes were combined with data from the Education Opportunity Project covering over 300 million test scores from U.S. schoolchildren in grades 3 through 8. Results indicated that counties with higher levels of racial bias had larger black-white test score disparities. The magnitude of these associations was on par with other widely accepted predictors of racial test score gaps, including racial gaps in family income and racial gaps in single parenthood. This study also found that the observed relation between collective rates of racial bias and racial test score gaps was largely accounted for when controlling for between-school segregation and racial gaps in discipline, gifted assignment, and special education placement. This pattern is consistent with a theoretical model in which collective rates of racial bias relate to educational opportunity through sorting mechanisms that operate both within and beyond schools.
Matching sparse sets of cardiac image cross-sections using large deformation diffeomorphic metric mapping algorithm

The purpose of this study is to illustrate the application of large deformation diffeomorphic metric mapping to perform registration among sparsely sampled cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data. To evaluate the performance of this method, we use two sets of data: 1) contours that are generated from sparsely sampled left ventricular sections and extracted from short axis cardiac MRI of patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and 2) left ventricular surface mesh that is generated from higher resolution cardiac computed tomography image. We present two different discrepancy criteria, one based on a measure that is embedded in the dual of a reproducing kernel Hilbert space of functions for curves and the other is based on a geometric soft matching distance between a surface and a curve.
Polypharmacy and Drug Interaction

In days past, a basic understanding of a drug’s mechanism of action was sufficient for the purpose of prescribing a medication to treat the vast majority of patients and their conditions. Those days are long gone with 48 % of Medicare beneficiaries over the age of 65 having three or more chronic medical conditions and 21 % having five or more of these conditions (Boyd et al., JAMA. 294(6):716–24, 2005). It has been estimated that the likelihood of a drug interaction in a patient taking only two different medications is only 6 %, whereas when the number of medications increases to ten, the likelihood of drug interaction increases to 100 % (Lin, Can Alzheimer Dis Rev. 10–4, 2003). With this virtual certainty of frequently dealing with drug interaction, a physician must have a solid understanding of polypharmacy along with drug interactions.
The Promise and Peril of Flexible Working Time

Flexible working time has reduced turnover, improved productivity, and increased morale for a large number of organizations. However, many employers retain their fixed schedule practices. This article identifies the benefits of flextime to firms, explores common organizational barriers to flextime adoption, and highlights the legal and regulatory risks surrounding flextime practices with a particular focus on the Americans with Disabilities Act. A case study is also provided, showing how an originally manageable flextime dispute devolved into a employee's public crusade. The social risks of flextime are also explored with a discussion of emerging regulation of flextime practices.
3-D Topography Simulation Using Surface Representation and Central Utilities

There are major opportunities for new algorithms and system integration concepts in TCAD systems which can be met by developing centralized utilities. Suitable purpose-built high performance algorithms for surface representation based simulation developed in connection with SAMPLE-3D are described. An exploratory centralized services system called the Berkeley Topography Utilities has been developed for studying the continuum of flexible choices between reusing these purpose-built algorithms and robust general-purpose solid modeling operations. This system links code from SAMPLE-3D, SIMPL, the IBM Geometry Engine serving as -a solid modeler, and a 2-D shock tracker. The BTU organization into hierarchial views, the use of surface direction monotonicity for speed enhancement, and a geometry tagging method for process trace-back are described.
Chapter 6 – Some Mathematical Problems in Geophysical Fluid Dynamics

This chapter addresses some mathematical aspects of the equations of geophysical fluid dynamics namely, existence, uniqueness, and regularity of solutions of the primitive equations (PEs) of the ocean, the atmosphere and the coupled atmosphere-ocean. The emphasis is on the case of the ocean which encompasses most of the mathematical difficulties. A guide and summary of results for the physics oriented reader is provided at the end of the Introduction (Section 1).
Personal background knowledge influences cross-cultural understanding.

Purpose of the StudyThe purpose of the study was to investigate how two types of videos, personal background knowledge (PBK) and general background knowledge (GBK), affect people's interpretation o...
The Inverse scattering transform fourier analysis for nonlinear problems

A systematic method is developed which allows one to identify certain important classes of evolution equations which can be solved by the method of inverse scattering. The form of each evolution equation is characterized by the dispersion relation of its associated linearized version and an integro-differential operator. A comprehensive presentation of the inverse scattering method is given and general features of the solution are discussed. The relationship of the scattering theory and Backlund transformations is brought out. In view of the role of the dispersion relation, the comparatively simple asymptotic states, and the similarity of the method itself to Fourier transforms, this theory can be considered a natural extension of Fourier analysis to nonlinear problems.
Environmental and geospatial factors drive juvenile Chinook salmon distribution during early ocean migration

Migrating animals rely on a variety of cues to guide them, but the relative importance of those signals may vary with size, life stage, or location. During their initial ocean migration, yearling Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytcha) from the Columbia River have stock-specific spatial distributions that shift through time. We used a two-process mixture model to examine how the distribution of yearling migrants from three Chinook salmon stocks varies as a function of geospatial (e.g., latitude and distance from shore) and environmental (e.g., chlorophyll a and temperature) covariates. In this framework, one process described the probability of being inside the spatial, temporal, and environmental boundaries of the migration route, and one process described the patchy distribution of salmon abundance within that route. We found that both environmental and geospatial covariates explained substantial portions of observed spatial patterns in abundance, suggesting that these stocks responded to multiple cues...
Diagnosis and surgical repair of stifle luxation in a spur-thighed tortoise (Testudo graeca).

Abstract This report describes stifle luxation resultant from multiple ligamentous injuries in a spur-thighed tortoise (Testudo graeca). Despite an absence of obvious trauma in the case history, the tortoise presented with acute, unilateral hind limb lameness. Diagnosis of stifle luxation was based on cranial drawer motion, increased rotational joint instability, and radiographic findings. Joint stabilization was accomplished by a combination of cranial cruciate reconstruction using an autograft of lateral vastus muscle in an over-the-top procedure and lateral imbrication of the joint capsule. Postoperative management included restriction of limb movement for 6 wk and parenteral chondroprotective regime. Treatment was effective in restoring clinically normal function to the limb.
A Schenkerian Reading of an Excerpt from Tristan und Isolde

The article applies the concepts and techniques of Schenkerian analysis to a relatively long and integral excerpt from Wagner's Tristan und Isolde, the english horn solo from Act III. The result is an analytical sketch that displays “foreground” and “middleground” patterns as they contribute to the total structure, providing continuity and linear contexts for Leitmotifs as well as for micro-motives that appear to characterize the solo melody and that penetrate other parts of the music as well. Throughout the excerpt, the instantiation of such paradigms as middleground linear progressions and foreground unfoldings leads to the conclusion that Schenker's approach to analysis illuminates the music in effective ways and suggests that Wagner's oeuvre may be more amenable to that approach than has previously been thought to be the case.
Evidence-Based Practices and Implementation Science in Special Education

Establishing a process for identifying evidence-based practices (EBPs) in special education has been a significant advance for the field because it has the potential for generating more effective educational programs and producing more positive outcomes for students with disabilities. However, the potential benefit of EBPs is bounded by the quality, reach, and maintenance of implementation. The cross-disciplinary field of implementation science has great relevance for translating the promise of EBPs into positive outcomes for children and youth with disabilities. This article examines the history, extent, and limitations of EBPs and describes the emergence and current state of implementation science as applied in special education. Subsequent articles in this special issue of Exceptional Children address a range of issues related to implementation science in special education: the research-to-practice gap, dissemination and diffusion, adherence and sustainability, scaling up, a model for state-level imple...
The presence of conjugative transposon Tn916 in the recipient strain does not impede transfer of a second copy of the element.

Abstract Transfer of the conjugative transposon Tn916 from the chromosome of Bacillus subtilis to a transposon-free Streptococcus pyogenes strain occurs at the same frequency as transfer to a Tn916-containing recipient. This rules out a model for conjugal transfer of Tn916 in which a copy of the element in the recipient represses transposition of a copy introduced by conjugation. Homology-directed integration of the incoming transposon into the resident one is less frequent than insertion elsewhere in the chromosome. This shows that after conjugation, transposition occurs more frequently than homologous recombination. However, because transconjugants arising from homologous recombination can be selected, it is possible to use Tn916 as a shuttle for gram-positive organisms for which there is no easy means of introducing DNA.
The Innervation of the Cranial Dura Mater: Neurosurgical Case Correlates and a Review of the Literature

Objective Headache and postcraniotomy pain can be disabling. In addition, generation of pain on manipulation of dural membranes during an awake craniotomy can limit the mapping procedure and create significant discomfort for the patient. There is controversy regarding the distribution of innervation of the cranial dura mater. Our aim was to review the literature regarding the innervation of the cranial dura mater and provide surgical case illustrations to highlight the relevance of such innervation to the neurosurgeon. Methods A review of the literature regarding the nerves thought to innervate the cranial dura mater was performed. Case illustrations are provided to highlight such innervation patterns. Results The cases provided reinforce the finding that the posterior part of the falx cerebri, tentorium cerebelli, and the dura mater along the middle cranial fossa floor are heavily innervated and most likely cause intense pain by their manipulation, which should therefore be avoided, if possible, during surgical procedures. Conclusions Knowledge of the nerves that supply the dura mater of the skull and their pathways is important to the clinician who treats headache and to the neurosurgeon who operates in this region.
Alteration of the ion-optic lens configuration to eliminate mass-dependent matrix-interference effects in inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry

Abstract The ion-optic lens configuration can have a substantial influence on mass-dependent matrix effects in inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). A laboratory-constructed instrument is used to study the influence of Sr, Ba, W, Pb and U (10 mM) on signals from Sc, Zn, Y, Ag and Cs (10 μM). Instrumental arrangements which did not utilize second-stage ion lenses were found to eliminate the matrix effects. With additional modifications to the third-stage lens system, the analytical utility of the system is maintained.
Abstract P6-15-20: Development of PEA-15-Based Therapy in Breast Cancer in a Preclinical Study

Background: PEA-15 (phosphoprotein enriched in astrocytes, 15 kDa) has tumor suppressor properties in both breast and ovarian cancer cells. Overexpression of PEA-15 in MDA-MB-468 triple-negative breast cancer cells using adenoviral vector (Ad.PEA-15) inhibited cell growth by inducing apoptosis. Treatment with Ad.PEA-15 led to significant regression of tumors in mice, indicating that PEA-15 could have therapeutic potential in breast cancer. PEA-15 exerts its antitumor activity by binding to ERK in the cytoplasm and preventing its translocation into the nucleus, thereby inhibiting ERK-dependent transcription and cell proliferation. Because ERK inhibitors have been shown to be toxic, in this study, we developed PEA-15 mimetic peptides as a therapeutic agent in breast cancer. These peptides, which are expected to be less toxic because of their ability to mimic PEA-15, are proposed to inhibit cell proliferation by sequestering ERK in the cytoplasm. Material and Methods: PEA-15 mimetic peptides were designed and synthesized based on structural analysis of linear segments from the C-terminal end of PEA-15, which is one of the two regions that are presumably critical for ERK binding, using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. These synthetic peptides were labeled with FAM to enable determination of their subcellular localization. The PULSin reagent was used as a delivery reagent for peptide penetration into cancer cells. The penetration ability of these peptides into HeLa and MDA-MB-468 cells was analyzed by fluorescence microscope and fluorescence-activated cell sorting. Their effect on ERK subcellular localization was examined by cell-fractionation analysis. Their impact on cell survival was determined by trypan blue viability assay and propidium iodide staining. Results: Ten peptides were designed and synthesized based on the C-terminal segments of PEA-15. Three of these FAM-labeled synthetic peptides delivered with the PULSin reagent were able to penetrate HeLa and MDA-MB-468 cells with 80-90% and 30-40% efficiency, respectively. Further, these peptides redirected ERK into the cytoplasm from the nucleus in MDA-MB-468 cells and caused 31% reduction in viability of HeLa cells as compared to the untreated control. Ongoing studies are evaluating PEA-15 peptides for their ability to interact with ERK using ELISA. In the future, we will also test their therapeutic efficacy and safety using a xenograft breast cancer model. Discussion: Previous studies revealed that PEA-15 has antitumor activity against breast and ovarian cancer cells by sequestering ERK in the cytoplasm. Due to the toxicity of ERK enzymatic inhibitors, we developed PEA-15 mimetic peptides and demonstrated their therapeutic potential for breast cancer, which may provide opportunities for breast cancer patients who currently have limited treatment options. Citation Information: Cancer Res 2010;70(24 Suppl):Abstract nr P6-15-20.
COMPUTER‐BASED INFORMATION SYSTEMS: THEIR ROLE IN REVITALISING THE UNITED STATES MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY

The United States has been a dominant force in industrial and economic affairs worldwide. Recently, this dominance has eroded to a point which concerns most US manufacturers. What has happened to the US dominant position in manufacturing? Why has this competitiveness crisis emerged? This crisis is analysed the use of computer technology and computer integrated manufacturing are examined as possible solutions to the crisis. Final remarks concerning the major technical and behavioural problems are presented in the conclusions.
On the stability of nonlinear operator differential equations, and applications

Existence and stability problems of nonlinear operator differential equations containing linear operator with domain and range contained in real Hilbert space
The Diagnosis and Management of Solitary Circumscribed Lesions of the Lungs

1)Solitary circumscribed lesions of the lung are significant because of the frequency with which they are malignant and the potential danger when granulomatous. 2)In the majority of cases the diagnostic limitations are sufficient to prevent making a diagnosis except after surgical removal. 3)Complete bacteriologic study of granulomatous tissue is as important as microscopic examination of tumor tissue. 4)The results of specific skin tests are of limited diagnostic value and are never conclusive in themselves. 5)The presence of a known extrapulmonary malignant lesion is not incontestable proof that an intrapulmonary nodule in the same patient is metastatic. 6)Slow diagnostic methods and prolonged periods of observation have no place in the management of the patient with a possible malignant tumor of the lung. 7)Most intrapulmonary nodules containing calcium need not be removed. 8)Careful individual consideration must be given each patient with a solitary lesion of the lung.
The case for DUF1220 domain dosage as a primary contributor to anthropoid brain expansion.

Here we present the hypothesis that increasing copy number (dosage) of sequences encoding DUF1220 protein domains is a major contributor to the evolutionary increase in brain size, neuron number and cognitive capacity that is associated with the primate order. We further propose that this relationship is restricted to the anthropoid sub-order of primates, with DUF1220 copy number markedly increasing in monkeys, further in apes, and most extremely in humans where the greatest number of copies (~272 haploid copies) is found. We show that this increase closely parallels the increase in brain size and neuron number that has occurred among anthropoid primate species. We also provide evidence linking DUF1220 copy number to brain size within the human species, both in normal populations and in individuals associated with brain size pathologies (1q21-associated microcephaly and macrocephaly). While we believe these and other findings presented here strongly suggest increase in DUF1220 copy number is a key contributor to anthropoid brain expansion, the data currently available rely on correlative measures that, though considerable, do not yet provide direct evidence for a causal connection. Nevertheless, we believe the evidence presented is sufficient to provide the basis for a testable model which proposes that DUF1220 protein domain dosage increase is a main contributor to the increase in brain size and neuron number found among the anthropoid primate species and that is at its most extreme in human.
Lactation following conservation surgery and radiotherapy for breast cancer

A 38-year-old woman with early stage invasive breast cancer was treated with wide excision of the tumor, axillary lymph node dissection, and breast irradiation. Three years later, she gave birth to a normal baby. She attempted breast feeding and had full lactation from the untreated breast. The irradiated breast underwent only minor changes during pregnancy and postpartum but produced small amounts of colostrum and milk for 2 weeks postpartum. There are only a few reports of lactation after breast irradiation. These cases are reviewed, and possible factors affecting breast function after radiotherapy are discussed. Because of scant information available regarding its safety for the infant, nursing from the irradiated breast is not recommended.
Perineal body anatomy in living women: 3-dimensional analysis using thin-slice magnetic resonance imaging

Objective The objective of the study was to describe a framework for visualizing the perineal body's complex anatomy using thin-slice magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. Study Design Two millimeter thick MR images were acquired in 11 women with normal pelvic support and no incontinence/prolapse symptoms. Anatomic structures were analyzed in axial, sagittal, and coronal slices. Three-dimensional (3-D) models were generated from these images. Results Three distinct perineal body regions are visible on MR imaging: (1) a superficial region at the level of the vestibular bulb, (2) a midregion at the proximal end of the superficial transverse perineal muscle, and (3) a deep region at the level of the midurethra and puborectalis muscle. Structures are best visualized on axial scans, whereas craniocaudal relationships are appreciated on sagittal scans. The 3-D model further clarifies interrelationships. Conclusion Advances in MR technology allow visualization of perineal body anatomy in living women and development of 3-D models that enhance our understanding of its 3 different regions: superficial, mid, and deep.
Tensile properties of two responsive hydrogels

Abstract Temperature-responsive hydrogels were prepared from N -vinyl caprolactam/ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (PVCL) or from hydroxypropylcellulose/divinyl sulfone (HPC). Both gels undergo reversible volume shrinkage between room temperature and 50 °C, and for both, the tensile stress–strain behavior in the collapsed state above the temperature-induced transition is qualitatively different from that at room temperature. At the higher temperature, PVCL gels become stiffer, more ductile, and more viscoelastic. HPC gels, on the other hand, have lower initial tangent moduli in the high-temperature state. Possible molecular mechanisms are suggested, and implications for the design of temperature-responsive actuators (‘artificial muscles’) from these materials are discussed.
Variation in the Expression and/or Phosphorylation of the Human Low Molecular Weight Stress Protein during in Vitro Cell Differentiation

Members of the low molecular weight heat shock protein (hsp) family show regulated expression in both Drosophila and mice during development and differentiation. Here we have examined whether similar regulation of the single low molecular weight hsp (hsp 28) of humans exhibits differences in either its expression and/or phosphorylation during the course of in vitro differentiation of hematopoietic cells. In the promyelocytic leukemic cell line, HL-60, we show that early after commitment of the cells to a macrophage-like phenotype (via exposure to phorbol ester myristate, PMA) there occurs an accompanying increased phosphorylation of hsp 28. Over time and as the cells become terminally differentiated the levels of hsp 28 increase significantly. In contrast, cells stimulated to adopt a granulocyte-like phenotype (e.g. exposed to either dimethyl sulfoxide or retinoic acid) show no changes in either the phosphorylation or expression of hsp 28. Moreover, once differentiated the granulocyte-like cells no longer appear capable of phosphorylating hsp 28. Human K562 cells, in response to hemin, rapidly increase their expression and phosphorylation of hsp 28 during the course of their differentiation into erythroid-like cells. Addition of PMA to the K562 cells induces differentiation into a megakaryocyte-like phenotype but is not accompanied by changes in hsp 28 phosphorylation/expression. In the case of the HL-60 cells, differentiation toward the macrophage like lineage is accompanied by an increased adherence of the cells to their substratum and an apparent association of hsp 28 with the actin cytoskeleton.
Optical microscopy of antibody-dependent phagocytosis and lysis of erythrocytes by living normal and chronic granulomatous disease neutrophils: a role of superoxide anions in extra- and intra-cellular lysis

Novel optical microscopic techniques have been developed to observe neutrophil-mediated effector functions at the level of individual cells. Conventional absorption spectrophotometry has shown that exposure of hemoglobin to superoxide anions decreases the intensity of the Soret band and shifts it to lower wavelengths. This oxidative event can be visualized within intact erythrocytes using bright-field microscopy in conjunction with violet illumination at 430 nm. The sequential oxidation of IgG-opsonized sheep erythrocytes bound to normal human neutrophils can be observed. Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) neutrophils which do not generate superoxide anions were not capable of influencing target absorption at 430 nm. Cytolytic events were visualized by fluorescence microscopy. Cytosolic or membrane compartments of sheep erythrocytes were labeled with eosin Y or fluorescein isothiocyanate, respectively. Time-dependent studies of erythrolysis show that targets are lysed extra- and intra-cellularly. The fluorescent diffusion gradient generated at the site of membrane rupture suggests that a pore of approximately 30 nm in diameter is formed in the target membrane. The site of pore formation is not found at the target-effector cell interface. CGD neutrophils did not display these cytolytic phenomena. Furthermore, the cytosolic label eosin Y could be followed into an associated granule compartment; we suggest that the phenomenon of piranhalysis may participate in antibody-dependent effector mechanisms. Phagocytosis can also be observed using fluorescently-labeled erythrocytes. Determinations of phagocytic index are more reliable with this approach. These microscopical methods are both simple and efficient. To our knowledge, these are the first direct microscopic studies of effector cell-mediated target cell oxidation and cytolysis. These experiments provide a fresh approach to the study of phagocyte effector functions at the cellular level and illuminate the importance of superoxide anions in antibody-dependent erythrolysis.
Phenotypic relationships of scrotal circumference to frame size and body weight in performance-tested bulls

Abstract The objective of this study was to determine if frame size (height) is related to scrotal circumference. A total of 695 bulls (425 Angus, 65 Hereford, 70 Charolais, 135 Simmentals) were tested for postweaning gain in five stations over a period of 1 to 3 years. Variables examined included hip height, weight and scrotal circumference at beginning and completion of a 140-d feeding period. Correlations among these traits, adjusted for age (7 to 10 months at entry), year, station and management were estimated for each breed. Both height and weight were correlated positively with scrotal circumference at the start and the end of the test period in all four breeds. When height and scrotal circumference were adjusted for weight, correlations were negligible, with the exception of end-of-test values for Charolais bulls (−0.26). Negative correlations were obtained between the scrotal circumference at the start of the test and the change in height during the test after adjustment for weight in Angus bulls (−0.18) and in Charolais bulls (−0.15). These small negative phenotypic relationships indicate that a bull's fertility is not seriously reduced by large frame size at the completion of a feedlot performance test. For maximum fertility in bulls, scrotal circumference needs to be evaluated independently of frame size.
Laser trapping of short-lived radioactive isotopes

Using sources of laser trapped radioactive atoms in beta-decay experiments could lead to more precise measurements of decay correlations that can be used to test the Standard Model of electroweak interactions. We discuss a recent demonstration of the feasibility of slowing and trapping significant numbers of accelerator produced short lived atoms.
Volcán Las Navajas, a Pliocene-Pleistocene trachyte/peralkaline rhyolite volcano in the northwestern Mexican volcanic belt

Volcan Las Navajas, a Pliocene-Pleistocene volcano located in the northwestern portion of the Mexican volcanic belt, erupted lavas ranging in composition from alkali basalt through peralkaline rhyolite, and is the only volcano in mainland Mexico known to have erupted pantellerites. Las Navajas is located near the northwestern end of the Tepic-Zacoalco rift and covers a 200-m-thick pile of alkaline basaltic lavas, one of which has been dated at 4.3 Ma. The eruptive history of the volcano can be divided into three stages separated by episodes of caldera formation. During the first stage a broad shield volcano made up of alkali basalts, mugearites, benmoreites, trachytes, and peralkaline rhyolites was constructed. Eruption of a chemically zoned ash flow then caused collapse of the structure to form the first caldera. The second stage consisted of eruptions of glassy pantellerite lavas that partially filled the caldera and overflowed its walls. This stage ended about 200 000 years ago with the eruption of pumice falls and ash flows, which led to the collapse of the southern portion of the volcano to form the second caldera. During the third stage, two benmoreite cinder cones and a benmoreite lava flow were emplaced on the northwestern flank of the volcano. Finally, the calc-alkaline volcano Sanganguey was built on the southern flank of Las Lavajas. Alkaline volcanism continued in the area with eruptions of alkali basalt from cinder cones located along NW-trending fractures through the area. Although other mildly peralkaline rhyolites are found in the rift zones of western Mexico, only Las Navajas produced pantellerites. Greater volumes of basic alkaline magma have erupted in the Las Navajas region than in the other areas of peralkaline volcanism in Mexico, a factor which may be necessary to provide the initial volume of material and heat to drive the differentiation process to such extreme peralkaline compositions.
Guest Editorial: Special Section on Multimedia Semantics

Multimedia semantics is the research area that deals with interpreting the meaning of a multimedia content and annotate the data in such a way that it will be useful for others to search, reuse, and repurpose the content (assuming the appropriate copyrights are available to do them!). The major hurdle in achieving this objective is well known: the binary nature of multimedia content does not lend itself to precise interpretations easily. Several machine learning and other artificial intelligence techniques have been developed for analyzing the binary data. However, these approaches have two major deficiencies in general:
Structured co-evolution of models and web application platforms

Web applications exemplify the need for generative programming techniques in part due to the many languages, artifacts, and groups of developers involved. Some problems remain, including those that that arise from the interplay with versioning. This paper proposes addressing these problems with structured program transformations, and explores a framework for the co-evolution of platform artifacts and the models that generate them.
Human mammary epithelial cells rapidly exchange empty EGFR between surface and intracellular pools.

Binding of ligand to the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) initiates a series of processes including activation of the intrinsic EGFR tyrosine kinase, receptor autophosphorylation, and the assembly of active signaling complexes at the plasma membrane. Concomitantly, receptor trafficking is initiated, and the receptor is ultimately delivered to the lysosome, where it is degraded. Virtually all studies on EGFR trafficking have used fibroblasts and transformed cells. Because EGFR exerts a potent effect on the physiology of epithelial cells, we examined the regulation of EGFR activity and trafficking in nontransformed human mammary epithelial cells (HMEC). We found that HMEC that displayed a luminal phenotype were largely unresponsive to EGF and maintained a majority of their EGFR at the cell surface. In contrast, HMEC with a basal phenotype were highly responsive to EGF and, at steady state in the absence of exogenous ligand, distributed empty EGFR into intracellular pools. Maintenance of the intracellular pools was a direct consequence of specific and rapid endocytosis of the empty EGFR. The trafficking pattern was EGFR specific, used coated pits, and did not require receptor tyrosine kinase activity. Such an mechanism redistributes EGFR signaling potential among different membrane domains and into vesicles with unique biochemical microenviroments. In addition, our data show that EGFR endocytosis can be regulated in the absence of ligand binding and receptor activation in a cell-type-specific manner. J. Cell. Physiol. 180:448–460, 1999. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Determination of Metronidazole in Tablet Formulations by Differential Pulse Polarography

Abstract A method for the determination of metronidazole in pharmaceutical tablets is presented. Differential pulse polarography at a static mercury drop electrode is used to observe the reduction of the imidazole. The method is demonstrated to be simple, rapid, linear, reproducible and accurate.
A gel slicer for the transverse sectioning of cyclindrical polyacrylamide gels

Abstract A transverse sectioning device for cylindrical polyacrylamide gels has been constructed which provides 1 mm-thick gel slices with a precision from 13 to 34%, depending on the gel type and operator skill: 1. a—without freezing or other pretreatment of the gel 2. b—on materials varying widely in gel concentration, in the degree of crosslinking and in the nature of the crosslinking agent 3. c—with sufficient speed of slicing to allow analysis of 20 or more samples/day per operator.
Electron microscopic visualization of intranuclear virus-like bodies in epithelial cells infected with poliomyelitis virus.

Electron microscopic examination of poliomyelitis virus infected kidney epitheliM cells has revealed collections of viruslike particles which may represent a site of virus development. The observations are reported to supplement the recent demonstration by Kl6ne 1 of the morphologic sequences in poliomyelitis infected cells as seen in the phase microscope and to expand our knowledge of the micromorphologic consequences of virus infections demonstrated by others 2-5. Outgrowths from trypsinized monkey kidney epithelial cells in mono: layers ~-1~ were, after removal of the preliminary feeding mixture, provided with maintenance medium (No 199) n and infected with Type I (Mahoney) poliomyelitis virus suspension (0.1 ml. cell culture fluid). The inoculated tubes and suitable controls including cultures inoculated with virus-type specific antiserum mixtures were observed twice daily for cytologic changes. No lesions were detected in uninoculated cultures or those in which the virus was neutralized by the monkey poliomyelitis virus antiserum. Degeneration was apparent in the infected cells within 24 hours. The few cells still at tached to the tube walls after the second day were rinsed with buffer and fixed with 1-percent buffered osmium tetroxide for 15 minutes and then dehydrated with 70-, 95 and 100-percent alcohol. They were embedded in a methacrylate layer 12 by maintaining the tubes in a horizontal position and replacing the air above the methacrylate
The relationship between orphanhood and child fostering in sub-Saharan Africa, 1990s–2000s

In countries most afflicted by HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa, orphanhood has increased dramatically, but the potential consequences of the increase have been mitigated by the ability of households to absorb orphans. This paper examines what the rising levels of orphanhood mean for the common practice of non-orphan child fostering in regions of high and low HIV prevalence in sub-Saharan Africa, which has a long history of child fostering. Using Demographic and Health Survey data from 135 regions within 14 sub-Saharan countries that undertake HIV testing and have had at least two surveys, we examine changes in fostering patterns. In most regions, we find a more accommodating relationship between orphan and non-orphan fostering: communities are able to absorb the demand for both orphans and non-orphans. Where HIV prevalence exceeds 10 per cent there is some evidence that the need to care for orphans is beginning to reduce opportunities for non-orphan fostering.
Ligand-binding properties of estrogen receptor proteins after interaction with surface-immobilized Zn(II) ions: evidence for localized surface interactions and minimal conformational changes.

The site- or domain-specific immobilization of steroid receptor proteins with preserved structure and function would facilitate the identification and purification of receptor-associated regulatory components and nucleic acids. We have demonstrated previously that restricted surface regions of the estrogen receptor protein contain high affinity binding sites for immobilized Zn(II) ions. Possible conformational changes in receptor at the stationary phase immobilized metal ion interface were evaluated by monitoring alterations in the equilibrium dissociation constant (Kd) for [3H]estradiol. Soluble estrogen receptor proteins (unliganded) present in immature calf uterine cytosol were immobilized via surface-exposed Zn(II)-binding sites to beads of agarose derivatized with iminodiacetate (IDA)-Zn(II) ions. The IDA-Zn(II) bound receptor was incubated with increasing concentrations of [3H]estradiol (0.01–20 nM) in the presence and absence of unlabeled competitor (diethylstilbestrol) to determine the level of specific hormone binding. Steroid-binding experiments were performed in parallel with identical aliquots of soluble receptor. Analyses of the equilibrium binding data revealed the presence of a single class of high-affinity (Kd = 2.44 ± 1.5 nM, n = 10) steroid-binding sites which were only marginally affected by receptor immobilization via surface-exposed Zn(II) bindings sites (Kd = 2.58 ± 0.56 nM, n = 4). These data are consistent with the location of surface accessible Zn(II) binding site(s) on the receptor at or near the DNA binding domain which, upon occupancy, do not influence the steroid binding domain. The high affinity of receptor for immobilized metal ions and lack of evident conformational changes in the immobilized receptor suggest that stationary phases of immobilized metal ions loaded with receptor proteins may be useful as affinity tools for the analysis and purification of receptor-associated macromolecules.
A TEST OF THE SIB-COMPETITION HYPOTHESIS FOR OUTCROSSING ADVANTAGE IN IMPATIENS CAPENSIS.

One of the potential selective mechanisms invoked in discussions of breeding-system evolution is that competition within sibships increases the fitness of outcrossed progeny relative to selfed progeny. We tested this sib-competition hypothesis using cleistogamous (CL) and chasmogamous (CH) seeds of Impatiens capensis in a large greenhouse experiment. The experimental design was a double replacement series which also allowed us to test for inbreeding depression and overall resource partitioning among sibships. We found no evidence for strong inbreeding depression in the study population; although plants from CH seeds had a slight advantage over plants from CL seeds in total flower and pod production, CL plants had slightly higher growth. We also could not detect significant resource partitioning among sibships nor any evidence to support the sib-competition hypothesis for outcrossing advantage. CH sibships were not significantly more variable than CL sibships in any of the phenotypic traits measured. These results suggest that sibling competition may have little importance in the evolution of Impatiens breeding systems.
Between genes and addiction: a critique of genetic determinism

The quest for a genetic component to addiction is promising and its evidence irresistible. But just how resistible? What does it tell us about the condition of heroin addiction or why some people drink to excess and others don't? Writer and academic Craig Reinarman believes that our thirst for the simplicity of determinism is thwarting our understanding of addiction. Here, Reinarman explains why addiction will continue to be a complex and misunderstood phenomenon, with or without genetic research.
Spin Transmission Resonance: Theory and Experimental Results in Lithium Metal

The present status of conduction-electron spin resonance in metals is reviewed. We attempt to show that in terms of practical sensitivity, detection by the transmission method (diffusion of oriented spins into a noise-free region) is superior to the usual reflection technique. Theoretical line shape is derived by a simple phase-adding procedure and from Dyson's theory of nonlocal magnetization, and the latter is made to yield a useful expression for signal power in terms of apparatus parameters. The paper contains a description of the apparatus and a discussion of how it might be improved. A method is given whereby one may experimentally determine values of spin relaxation time and conduction-electron mean free path. The latter determination seems to be more direct than that derived from conductivity measurements, and the beginnings of an interesting study are indicated. Theory and apparatus performance are compared with results obtained in lithium.
Separation of IL-4 production from Th cell proliferation by an altered T cell receptor ligand

In the presence of antigen presenting cells, a murine T helper (Th) cell specific for murine hemoglobin (Hb) responded to its immunogenic peptide by both cytokine (interleukin-4) secretion and proliferation. An altered Hb peptide with a single amino acid substitution induced only cytokine secretion and did not induce proliferation. Interleukin-1 costimulated and restored the Th proliferative response to normal levels. The altered peptide also supported cognate T cell-B cell interactions indicative of T cell helper function. Thus, this result suggests that the T cell receptor has the capacity of differential signaling.
The Response to Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) Administration in Boys with and Without Δ5-3β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Deficiency1

ABSTRACT HCG3 stimulation of 5 endocrinologically normal boys was shown to cause a more prominent rise in testosterone than in the other testicular secretions, androstenediol, androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHA) and dihydrotestosterone. There was no apparent difference in the testicular secretory pattern between 1 to 10 yr of age. The effect of hCG on children was similar to that reported in adults. However, the androstenediol-to-testosterone ratio after hCG seemed to be even lower than the 1:4 ratio recorded in adults. Previous studies have indicated that testosterone secretion is normal in pubertal boys with seeming hereditary deficiency of Δ5-3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (Δ5-3β-HSD), an enzyme necessary for testosterone biosynthesis. In 2 of 3 such cases we confirmed that plasma testosterone increased normally in response to short-term hCG stimulation. Nevertheless, the secretion of androstenediol was elevated relative to that of testosterone. The resultant uniformly abnormal ratio of plas...
Geotextile friction mobilization during field pullout test

Abstract Small-scale laboratory tests may not yield reliable values for soil–geotextile interface properties due to the effect of scaling. Field tests offer a better alternative to overcome this problem. In situ pullout tests were performed on a full-scale embankment built over a woven polyester geotextile sheet. The field tests were conducted using different fill heights of compacted clayey soil. The performance of the geotextile was examined when the base soil underneath the geotextile was stiff clay of high plasticity or compacted clean river sand. The test section was instrumented to monitor the geotextile movement and the applied pullout force. Results of the tests showed a linear increase in the geotextile frictional resistance with the increase in the fill height. Also, a successive movement response at different locations on the geotextile away from the loaded edge was detected during the early stages of loading. At the slippage load, a continuous rigid body translation occurred in the geotextile sheet without any further increase in the applied pullout force. The suitability of a widely used interface numerical model that consists of a zero-thickness joint element and a nonlinear elastic hyperbolic stress-deformation material model was examined using the finite element technique. The results showed the inadequacy of this model to deal with large deformation problems typically experienced in geosynthetic reinforced soils.
Accuracy of local exchange in the calculation of continuum wavefunctions

It is well known that electron exchange can play an important role in electron-impact elastic, inelastic and ionization scattering from atoms and molecules. The proper theoretical treatment of exchange yields an inhomogeneous differential equation with a non-local exchange operator. To simplify the calculation, a local approximation is often made for this non-local operator. In this paper, we examine the accuracy of this approximation for the calculation of elastic scattering continuum waves in the presence of an argon ion with a single vacancy in the p-shell. It is found that one can reliably use the local exchange approximation for ionization leading to s-state vacancies but not p-state vacancies.
Video-based administration of the La Trobe Communication Questionnaire for adults with traumatic brain injury and their communication partners.

Primary objective: To explore the use of direct video-based review for administration of the LaTrobe Communication Questionnaire (LCQ), and explore use of the LCQ as a tool for identifying and prioritizing targets for partner-based intervention.Research design: Between-groups design comparing self- vs partner ratings of social communication behaviours in conversation and qualitative analysis of response patterns and participant feedback.Methods and procedures: Eight adults with moderate-to-severe TBI and their partners engaged in 20-minute videotaped conversations, elicited using a topic-starter task. Each participant with TBI and his or her partner then completed the LCQ while viewing the dyad's videotaped conversation. Self- and partner ratings of the person with TBI were compared to each other and to published LCQ data.Main outcomes and results: Based on direct review of their videotaped conversations, six of eight individuals with TBI rated themselves as having more frequent problem behaviours than di...
The determinants of residential succession with renewal effects

Abstract This paper reformulates Brueckner's model of residential succession and tests the predictive capability of two discriminant models. Model A uses the Brueckner variables, and Model B is Model A plus two urban renewal variables and a variable measuring the direction of residential succession in the previous decade. Empirical tests are based on a composite set of census tracts within the City of Pittsburgh, 1950–1960 and 1960–1970. Inclusion of the additional variables and disaggregation of the model by relative income position within the central city (Low, Moderate, Middle, and High) adds a new policy dimension by increasing the predictive capability of the model by about one-third for all central city tracts and nearly three-fourths for moderate income tracts.