cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Dexamethasone-related osteogenic differentiation of dental follicle cells depends on ZBTB16 but not Runx2

Dental follicle cells (DFCs) can be artificially differentiated into mineralizing cells. With a dexamethasone-based differentiation protocol, transcription factors ZBTB16 and NR4A3 are highly upregulated but Runx2 and other osteogenic marker genes are not. Previous studies have suggested the involvement of a Runx2-independent differentiation pathway. The objective of this study is to further elucidate this mechanism. Differentiation of DFCs was examined by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining and ALP activity measurement, by Alizarin Red S staining and by real-time reverse transcription plus the polymerase chain reaction. ZBTB16 was overexpressed by using a transient transfection method. Resulting genome-wide gene expression changes were assessed by microarray. ZBTB16 and Runx2 were inhibited by short interfering RNA transfection. Promoter binding of ZBTB16 was evaluated by chromatin immunoprecipitation. Downregulation of Runx2 had no effect on dexamethasone-induced differentiation but was effective on BMP2-induced differentiation. Downregulation of ZBTB16, however, impaired dexamethasone-induced differentiation. Genes that were upregulated by dexamethasone induction were also upregulated by ZBTB16 overexpression. Genes that were not upregulated during dexamethasone-induced differentiation were also not regulated by ZBTB16 overexpression. ZBTB16 bound directly to the promoter regions of osterix and NR4A3 but not that of Runx2. Overexpression of ZBTB16 led to changes in the gene expression profile, whereby upregulated genes were overrepresented in osteogenesis-associated biological processes. Our findings suggest that, in DFCs, a Runx2-independent differentiation mechanism exists that is regulated by ZBTB16.
Decision tool for optimal replacement of plumbing systems

There is a noticeable increase in pinhole corrosion in copper plumbing pipes. Home is the most valuable asset for the majority of homeowners. The possibility of falling home value and health concerns have caused considerable anxiety among affected homeowners. There is a need for a decision tool that can determine whether to continue repair or to replace the system. In this article, a model capable of replicating time-dependent failure rate is proposed to generate synthetic sequences of leak arrivals. An economically sustainable optimality criterion is exploited to designate optimal replacement time of the plumbing system. The analysis is applied to a real system.
CORR Insights™: High Infection Rate Outcomes in Long-bone Tumor Surgery with Endoprosthetic Reconstruction in Adults: A Systematic Review

This CORR Insights™ is a commentary on the article “High Infection Rate Outcomes in Long-bone Tumor Surgery with Endoprosthetic Reconstruction in Adults: A Systematic Review” by Racano and colleagues available at DOI 10.1007/s11999-013-2842-9. The author certifies that he, or a member of his or her immediate family, has no funding or commercial associations (eg, consultancies, stock ownership, equity interest, patent/licensing arrangements, etc) that might pose a conflict of interest in connection with the submitted article. The author is the President of the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society, the sponsor of the Parity clinical trial referred to in this commentary, and a coauthor of an article referenced that describes the methodology for developing that trial. All ICMJE Conflict of Interest Forms for authors and Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research editors and board members are on file with the publication and can be viewed on request. This CORR Insights™ comment refers to the article available at DOI: 10.1007/s11999-013-2842-9
Insulin action in non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus: The relationship between hepatic and extrahepatic insulin resistance and obesity☆

Abstract To determine the contribution of obesity to the insulin resistance of non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, insulin dose response curves for suppression of glucose production and stimulation of glucose utilization were generated in lean and obese diabetic patients and compared to those observed in weight-matched nondiabetic subjects. Glucose utilization during 0.4, 1.0, and 10.0 mU/kg × min insulin infusions (producing insulin concentrations ranging from ∼50 to 2,000 μU/mL) was lower (p P
The absolute configurations of (+)-thalictrifoline and (+)-corydalic acid methyl ester. Total synthesis of (+)-thalictrifoline.

Abstract (+)-Thalictrifoline ( 3 ) has been synthesized from an optically resolved (+)-8-oxo-13-carboxytetrahydroprotoberberine ( 13 ) whose absolute configuration was established by correlation with (+)- 18 . This determines the absolute configurations of (+)-thalictrifoline ( 3 ) as 13R, 14R aria (+)-corydalic acid methyl ester ( 9 ) as 3R, 4R.
Nanoscale oscillatory fracture propagation in metallic glasses

We describe the oscillatory crack propagation for small propagation velocities at the atomistic scale that was recently observed for brittle metallic glasses [G. Wang, Y.T. Wang, Y.H. Liu, M.X. Pan, D.Q. Zhao, W.H. Wang, Appl. Lett. 89 (2006) 121909; G. Wang, D.Q. Zhao, H.Y. Bai, M.X. Pan, A.L. Xia, B.S. Han, X.K. Xi, Y. Wu, W.H. Wang, Phys. Rev. Lett. 98 (2007) 235501]. Based on a simple model of crack propagation [Y. Braiman, T. Egami, Phys. Rev. E, 77 (2008) 065101(R)], we derived and analyzed expressions for the feature size, oscillation period, and maximum strain accumulated in the material.
Relaxation Oscillations, Stability, and Cavity Feedback in a Superradiant Raman Laser

We experimentally study the relaxation oscillations and amplitude stability properties of an optical laser operating deep into the bad-cavity regime using a laser-cooled $^{87}\mathrm{Rb}$ Raman laser. By combining measurements of the laser light field with nondemolition measurements of the atomic populations, we infer the response of the gain medium represented by a collective atomic Bloch vector. The results are qualitatively explained with a simple model. Measurements and theory are extended to include the effect of intermediate repumping states on the closed-loop stability of the oscillator and the role of cavity feedback on stabilizing or enhancing relaxation oscillations. This experimental study of the stability of an optical laser operating deep into the bad-cavity regime will guide future development of superradiant lasers with ultranarrow linewidths.
Production of a tumor-specific xenoantiserum from partially purified immunoprotective tumor antigen.

Rabbits imunized with the immunoprotective TSTA fraction partially purified by preparative isoelectric focusing of 3 M KCl extracts from a chemically induced murine sarcoma, MCA-F, produced specific xenoantisera as assessed by an indirect membrane immunofluorescence assay. Only the immunizing tumor, MCA-F, and not the antigenically distinct MCA-D or MCA-T target cells were stained by the xenoantiserum. Absorption of anti-MCA-F antiserum with the antigenically distinct MCA-D or MCA-T cells did not reduce its capacity to bind to MCA-F cells. The immunofluorescence reaction was competitively inhibited by MCA-F fractions that induced specific immunoprotection: crude 3 M KCl extract, isoelectrically focused TSTA (fraction 15), and intact irradiated MCA-F cells. The TSTA specificity of these xenoantisera suggests that they may provide useful reagents for rapid isolation and characterization of the immunoprotective moiety.
George Price’s contributions to evolutionary genetics

Abstract George Price studied evolutionary genetics for approximately seven years between 1967 and 1974. During that brief period Price made three lasting contributions to evolutionary theory; these were: (i) the Price Equation, a profound insight into the nature of selection and the basis for the modern theories of kin and group selection; (ii) the theory of games and animal behavior, based on the concept of the evolutionarily stable strategy; and (iii) the modern interpretation of Fisher’s fundamental theorem of natural selection, Fisher’s theorem being perhaps the most cited and least understood idea in the history of evolutionary genetics. This paper summarizes Price’s contributions and briefly outlines why, toward the end of his painful intellectual journey, he chose to focus his deep humanistic feelings and sharp, analytical mind on abstract problems in evolutionary theory.
John Quincy Adams on the war powers of congress

John Quincy Adams’ speech of May 25, 1836, contains the first public enunciation of the constitutional justification for the emancipation of slaves in the event of a civil war. Although an opportunity for applying Adams’ doctrine was not immediately available, his speech seems to have been as closely related to Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation, as his speech of July 4, 1821, was to the Monroe Doctrine.
Effects of netropsin on yeast mitochondria.

Abstract Netropsin binds tightly to AT rich regions of DNA and correspondingly is an efficient inhibitor of mitochondrial DNA replication in Saccharomyces cerevisiae . Netropsin treatment does not cause formation of large populations of petite cells. However, a large portion of cells grown in cultures with ethanol as carbon source are killed by 1 μg/ml netropsin. When petite induction by berenil or ethidium bromide is carried out in the presence of netropsin, the petite cells are killed. This appears to be an effect of netropsin action on the cells during the process of petite formation.
Risk for later school problems in preterm children who do not cooperate for preschool developmental testing

Abstract Objective: To determine whether preterm children born at ≤32 weeks’ gestation who did not cooperate for developmental testing at 3 ½ to 4 ½ years old were more likely to have school problems at 7 to 10 years old than preterm children who completed developmental testing. Study design: The McCarthy Scales of Children’s Abilities were administered to a cohort of 118 preterm children at 3 ½ to 4 ½ years old when they were seen in the neonatal follow-up clinic. When these children were 7 to 10 years old, their parents completed the Child Behavior Checklist, and the child’s teacher completed the Teacher’s Report Form. Results: Parents returned questionnaires on 105 (89%) children. On the Teacher’s Report Form, children who were untestable had more somatic complications and more attention problems and scored higher on the Total Problems Scale and the Internalizing Scale than children who had completed testing. Children who were untestable were twice as likely to receive help in school than were children who completed developmental testing. Conclusions: Preterm children born at ≤32 weeks’ gestation who do not cooperate for developmental testing at 3 ½ to 4 ½ years old should be examined at school age for evidence of school and behavior problems. (J Pediatr 1999;135:756-60)
Teachers and Teacher Educators Learning from New Literacies and New Technologies

While many teachers and teacher educators agree that it is important to integrate new literacies and technologies into their teaching, educators are often perplexed about how to begin thinking about this task. Research reveals that educators use technologies for personal and communicative purposes, but teachers, for the most part, have not yet applied these technologies in their classroom teaching and learning. Given these challenges, the current study was undertaken as an instance of teacher research carried out in the context of a teacher education course in new literacies and technologies wherein teacher educators attempted to take up new literacies practices. Study participants were pre‐ and in‐service teachers. Findings indicate that teacher educators must foster environments to share problem‐solving and distributed learning, to support design and multimodal redesign of texts, and to explore literacy and technology as transactional processes. Whereas both teachers and teacher educators may be tempted...
Hepatoctye growth factor pretreatment reduces apoptosis and mucosal damage after intestinal ischemia-reperfusion

Abstract Background/Purpose: Ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury to the intestine can result in mucosal damage and cellular death. This study was designed to evaluate the protective effects of pretreatment with hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) on intestine after moderate IR injury. Methods: Control animals (n = 7) received 48 hours of intravenous saline, and treatment animals (n = 7) received HGF (150 μg/kg/d). After 35 minutes of mesenteric artery occlusion and 120 minutes of reperfusion, serum and jejunal mucosa samples were obtained. Fluorometric assays were performed for hexosaminidase A (HEX A) and β-glucuronidase (GLUC), enzyme markers of enterocyte necrosis. Apoptosis was quantified by the TUNEL method. Transcription of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) was assessed by multiplex reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) Statistical analysis was performed using the Student's t test. Results: After HGF pretreatment, HEX A and GLUC activities were reduced from 543 ± 28 to 343 ± 35 nmole/h/mL ( P P P P Conclusions: Pretreatment with HGF reduces the severe crypt apoptosis and cellular necrosis after IR injury to the intestine. These data suggest that HGF may be beneficial in attenuating IR damage and thus may have significant clinical application. J Pediatr Surg 37:1093-1097. Copyright 2002, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.
Joint Experimental and Theoretical Characterization of the Electronic Structure of 4,4'-Bis(N-m-tolyl-N-phenylamino)biphenyl (TPD) and Substituted Derivatives

We investigate by means of gas-phase ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy complemented by quantum-chemical calculations how the frontier levels of the 4,4‘-bis(N-m-7tolyl-N-phenylamino)biphenyl (TPD) molecule are affected upon substitution of the terminal aryl rings with methoxy groups or fluorine atoms. These results provide strategies to modulate energy barriers at metal/organic or organic/organic interfaces involving TPD and its derivatives; it is shown that the change in the energy of the HOMO level of TPD upon derivatization is strongly affected by inductive effects taking place in the σ skeleton.
Dragmacidin E Synthesis Studies. Preparation of a Model Heptacyclic Core Structure

The conversion of a cycloheptannelated indole platform into the heptacyclic core structure of dragmacidin E proceeded over nine steps. Key sequences include a cyclocondensation to form an intermediate dihydropyrazinone ring and the conversion of a cyclic urea into the cyclic guanidine of the target.
Comparative Effectiveness of Three Release Rates for a Pteromalid Parasitoid (Hymenoptera) of House Flies (Diptera) in Beef Cattle Feedlots

Abstract Muscidifurax zaraptor Kogan and Legner (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) was released at three rates in nine beef cattle feedlots in eastern Nebraska to measure dosage response. Dosage response was measured by the percentage parasitism of sentinel house fly pupae. Releases were made from a single location near the center of the pen at three feedlots, from two locations within the pen at three feedlots, and from four corners of the pen at three feedlots. One-time releases initiated held propagation of M. zaraptor using freeze-killed house fly pupae as hosts. Three treatment rates, averaging 4480, 20,300, and 37,100 parasitoids, were released weekly over a 15-week period with each of the three release methods receiving a low, medium, or high treatment rate. All nine release sites produced significantly higher levels of parasitoid emergence and sentinel host mortality than sentinel hosts at two control facilities. The three sites receiving the high treatment rate averaged 38% host mortality, compared with 26% for the medium treatment rate and 17% for the low treatment rate. The two control sites averaged 2% host mortality. No significant differences could be detected in the number of release stations except at the four-station method using the low treatment rate. High temperatures during at least two of the weekly periods were detrimental to the released parasitoids.
A suggested methodology for data acquisition, measurement and control using microcomputer and multiprocessor systems

Abstract This paper proposes three-phase measurement systems which can be built around a microcomputer and further upgraded using multiprocessors. These systems will have the ability to measure the instantaneous values of three-phase voltages and currents and to use these values to calculate active power, reactive power, RMS and peak values of voltage and current, and to display these values using graphic capabilities. These systems can also be used to measure DC voltages and currents and calculate DC power. The maximum frequencies of the three-phase signals that can be measured depend on the sampling rate of the system, which depends on different factors such as the frequency of operation of the microcomputer and of its various peripherals. An attempt will be made to relate these different factors to the sampling rate of the system. The maximum resolution of measurements that can be made by this system depends on the analog/digital (A/D) converter that is used. A maximum resolution of 0.0015% can be achieved by using a 16-bit A/D converter.
The Trajectory of My Work with Metaphor

This essay summarizes and synthesizes the author's previously published work on rhetorical metaphor and depiction and relates personal stories behind this research. The essay also explores points of connection that tie this research together into an oeuvre. These points of connection trace a trajectory from the initial microscopic view of metaphor to the later panoramic view of functions sketched in the rhetorical depiction essay. The present essay pinpoints a vital over-statement in the original formulation of archetypal metaphor, the claim that such metaphor is “immune” rather than “resistant” to change. The gradual evolution of certain archetypal metaphors, despite their enduring nature, is perhaps the most fascinating thing about them. This essay also identifies a basic question left unanswered, concerning how the experience of metaphor can be so meaningful, and further complicates the explanation of rhetorical depiction. At the heart of both metaphor and depiction there remain mysteries.
Photonic crystals fabricated from gold-silica core-shell nanoparticles

An approach to metallic photonic crystals is demonstrated by using gold-silica core-shell colloids as the building blocks. The formation of gold-silica core-shell nanoparticles involved a base-catalyzed hydrolysis of precursor TEOS and subsequent condensation of silica onto the surfaces of gold cores. The obtained core-shell colloids were monodispersed in size and their shell thickness could be controlled in the range of a few nanometers to about 500 nm. The core diameter could also be varied from ~5 nm to ~100 nm. The core-shell colloids were then employed as building blocks to self-assemble highly ordered three-dimensional photonic crystals using a non-lithographic method. The photonic band-gap properties were characterized by taking the transmittance and reflectance spectra.
c-Jun Binds the N Terminus of Human TAFII250 to Derepress RNA Polymerase II Transcription in Vitro

c-Jun is an oncoprotein that activates transcription of many genes involved in cell growth and proliferation. We studied the mechanism of transcriptional activation by human c-Jun in a human RNA polymerase II transcription system composed of highly purified recombinant and native transcription factors. Transcriptional activation by c-Jun depends on the TATA-binding protein (TBP)-associated factor (TAF) subunits of transcription factor IID (TFIID). Protein-protein interaction assays revealed that c-Jun binds with high specificity to the largest subunit of human TFIID, TAF(II)250. The region of TAF(II)250 bound by c-Jun lies in the N-terminal 163 amino acids. This same region of TAF(II)250 binds to TBP and represses its interaction with TATA boxes, thereby decreasing DNA binding by TFIID. We hypothesized that c-Jun is capable of derepressing the effect of the TAF(II)250 N terminus on TFIID-driven transcription. In support of this hypothesis, we found that c-Jun increased levels of TFIID-driven transcription in vitro when added at high concentrations to a DNA template lacking activator protein 1 (AP-1) sites. Moreover, c-Jun blocked the repression of TBP DNA binding caused by the N terminus of TAF(II)250. In addition to revealing a mechanism by which c-Jun activates transcription, our studies provide the first evidence that an activator can bind directly to the N terminus of TAF(II)250 to derepress RNA polymerase II transcription in vitro.
The Keratin Polypeptides of Psoriatic Epidermis

The polyacrylamide SDS electrophoretic pattern of protein extracted from the stratum corneum obtained by scraping the surface of involved skin of patients with psoriasis was different from that of uninvolved skin and normal controls. The pattern from superficial scales was similar to that of whole stratum corneum in the case of involved psoriatic epidermis but different in uninvolved and normal epidermis. These data indicate that the changes which are observed in the structural proteins during normal keratinization are not seen in involved psoriatic epidermis. In addition, the relative proportion of keratin polypeptides was different in involved psoriatic epidermis compared to normal skin. That these changes are not specific for psoriasis was shown by finding similar electrophoretic patterns with stratum corneum proteins from patients with other keratinizing disorders.
Intellectual similarity of virtual twin pairs: Developmental trends

Virtual twins (VTs) are same-age unrelated siblings reared together from infancy who replicate twinship, but without the genetic relatedness. A 2005 report from the ongoing Fullerton Virtual Twin Study found an IQ intraclass correlation of .26 (p < .01, n = 113 pairs) and a within-pair difference of 13.22 IQ points. The average age of VTs in that study was 8.10 years (SD = 8.56, range: 4.01-54.84 years). An opportunity to retest members of 43 VT pairs, 1.70-8.96 years after their time 1 assessment, allowed additional analyses of genetic and environmental influences underlying general intellectual development. A decrease in the VT IQ correlation and an increase in the within-pair difference were indicated, consistent with increasing genetic and/or non-shared environmental influences and decreasing shared environmental influence on general intellectual development throughout childhood.
Changes in the Competitiveness of House Primary Elections, 1956-1976

This study examines trends in U.S. House primary election competition from 1956-1976. While primaries generally have become more contested, the degree of change varies with the partisanship of the primary and the opportunities for winning the seat in the fall. Democratic races have increased in competitiveness more than have Republican contests, thus making even greater the normal party difference. Furthermore, stronger trends toward competitiveness exist within the primaries of more marginal incumbents in both parties. In primaries not involving an incumbent, however, there is an important difference betwen the parties; here, Democratic candidates to a greater extent have been drawn to contests in districts where they stand a better chance in November, while exactly the opposite obtains for Republicans. This suggests, therefore, that close primaries increasingly signify real candidate interest in obtaining a House seat among Democrats, but internecine ideological or factional struggles for the opposition.
Exploiting maximal redundancy to optimize SQL queries

Detecting and dealing with redundancy is an ubiquitous problem in query optimization, which manifests itself in many areas of research such as materialized views, multi-query optimization, and query-containment algorithms. In this paper, we focus on the issue of intra-query redundancy, redundancy present within a query. We present a method to detect the maximal redundancy present between a main (outer) query block and a subquery block. We then use the method for query optimization, introducing query plans and a new operator that take full advantage of the redundancy discovered. Our approach can deal with redundancy in a wider spectrum of queries than existing techniques. We show experimental evidence that our approach works under certain conditions, and compares favorably to existing optimization techniques when applicable.
A Pt-cluster-based heterogeneous catalyst for homogeneous catalytic reactions: X-ray absorption spectroscopy and reaction kinetic studies of their activity and stability against leaching.

The design and development of metal-cluster-based heterogeneous catalysts with high activity, selectivity, and stability under solution-phase reaction conditions will enable their applications as recyclable catalysts in large-scale fine chemicals production. To achieve these required catalytic properties, a heterogeneous catalyst must contain specific catalytically active species in high concentration, and the active species must be stabilized on a solid catalyst support under solution-phase reaction conditions. These requirements pose a great challenge for catalysis research to design metal-cluster-based catalysts for solution-phase catalytic processes. Here, we focus on a silica-supported, polymer-encapsulated Pt catalyst for an electrophilic hydroalkoxylation reaction in toluene, which exhibits superior selectivity and stability against leaching under mild reaction conditions. We unveil the key factors leading to the observed superior catalytic performance by combining X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XA...
The occurrence of tubercle bacilli in spirometers used by patients with pulmonary tuberculosis.

Various parts of Benedict-Roth spirometers which had been used by patients with active pulmonary tuberculosis, having tubercle bacilli in their sputa, were examined for the presence of tubercle bacilli. In 27 different specimens no tubercle bacilli were found on smear or culture. It appears safe to use the same machines for the testing of tuberculous and non-tuberculous patients.
Changes in nuclear non-histone protein composition during normal differentiation and carcinogenesis of intestinal epithelial cells.

Abstract Nuclei from colonic epithelial cells were isolated and fractionated by centrifugation in discontinuous sucrose density gradients. Nuclei differing in buoyant density differ in size, non-histone protein to DNA ratio, and capacity for DNA synthesis in vivo. They do not differ in histone content or in proportions of the major histone classes. The distribution of cell nuclei after density gradient centrifugation corresponds functionally to their histological localization in the colonic mucosa, as judged by the nuclear capacity for DNA synthesis in both normal and tumor tissues. The nuclei of colonic epithelial cells contain a heterogeneous set of non-histone proteins which change in total amount and in relative proportions during normal differentiation. The complement of nuclear proteins differs in normal intestinal epithelial cells and in colon tumors induced by the carcinogen, 1,2-dimethylhydrazine. There is a striking increase in the nuclear content of two major protein classes (of mol. wt ca 44 000 and 62 000) during carcinogenesis. The accumulation of these proteins in the nuclei of carcinogen-treated cells follows early, selective increases in their rates of synthesis.
A Comparison between Corn Starch and Dry Milled Corn Products in their Dispersion Properties

Gelatinization of corn starch, flour, meal and grits has been compared. Amylograph curves show differences that can be related to particle size and to constraints on the swelling behavior, presumably due to native protein in the corn milled products. Autoclaving starch and dry milled products at 121 °C in the presence of steam alone merely hardens the particles. However, when the particles are in contact with liquid water, swelling and gelatinization readily occur and gels are formed. Above 10% loading, gels formed by autoclaved grits and meal are significantly more rigid than gels formed from corn starch alone. Flour gives gels of essentially the same properties as the starch up to 30% loading, above which flour gels become more rigid than starch gels and match the gels formed from corn meal and grits. Ein Vergleich zwischen Maisstarke und trocken vermahlenen Maisprodukten hinsichtlich ihrer Dispersionseigenschaften. Die Verkleisterung von Maisstarke, Maismehl, Maisschrot und -grits wurde verglichen. Die Amylogramme zeigen Unterschiede, die auf die Teilchengrose sowie auf die durch natives Protein in den Maismahlprodukten auftretenden, das Quellverhalten beeinflussenden Hemmungen zuruckgefuhrt werden konnen. Die Autoklavbehandlung von Starke und Trockenvermahlungsprodukten bei 121 °C in Gegenwart von Dampf allein verhartet lediglich die Teilchen. Wenn die Teilchen jedoch mit flussigem Wasser in Beruhrung kommen, so tritt ohne weiteres Quellung und Verkleisterung auf, und es bilden sich Gele. Oberhalb einer Konzentration von 10% sind die aus autoklavbehandelten Grits und Schroten gebildeten Gele fester als die allein aus Starke gebildeten. Mehl ergibt Gele von im wesentlichen gleichen Eigenschaften wie starke bis zu 30%. Oberhalb dieser Konzentration sind Mehlgele fester als Starkegele und entsprechen den aus Maisschrot und -grits gebildeten Gelen.
Regularization of Feynman diagrams in the high density expansion method for spin systems near critical points

Abstract A regularization of the high density expansion for spin systems is proposed. This regularization is used to remove imaginary parts of observables which appear near critical points. This regularization was applied to a first approximation for the simple Ising model.
Subpixel-Scale Rainfall Variability and the Effects on Separation of Radar and Gauge Rainfall Errors

This paper presents an extended error variance separation method (EEVS) that allows explicit partitioning of the variance of the errors in gauge- and radar-based representations of areal rainfall. The implementation of EEVS demonstrated in this study combines a kriging scheme for estimating areal rainfall from gauges with a sampling method for determining the correlation between the gauge- and radar-related errors. On the basis of this framework, this study examines scale- and pixel-dependent impacts of subpixelscale rainfall variability on the perceived partitioning of error variance for four conterminous Hydrologic Rainfall Analysis Project (HRAP) pixels in central Ohio with data from Next-Generation Weather Radar (NEXRAD) stage III product and from 11 collocated rain gauges as input. Application of EEVS for 1998–2001 yields proportional contribution of two error terms for July and October for each HRAP pixel and for two fictitious domains containing the gauges (4 and 8 km in size). The results illustrate the importance of considering subpixel variation of spatial correlation and how it varies with the size of domain size, number of gauges, and the subpixel locations of gauges. Further comparisons of error variance separation (EVS) and EEVS across pixels results suggest that accounting for structured variations in the spatial correlation under 8 km might be necessary for more accurate delineation of domain-dependent partitioning of error variance, and especially so for the summer months.
Isopycnic zonal centrifugation and characterization of the mouse mammary tumor virus (MTV) in different gradient solutions

Abstract The buoyant density of MTV in several different gradient solutions was determined, using a single pool of MTV-infected milk as the source of virus. Increased ultraviolet absorbance and detectable MTV B-particle antigenicity correlated with the positions of discrete light-scattering bands formed during centrifugation. MTV isodensities were found to be similar to those reported for other RNA tumor viruses. Centrifugation of MTV-positive preparations in preformed gradients containing sucrose or potassium tartrate resulted in the formation of two distinct light-scattering bands. Electron microscopic examination showed that only those bands at the higher buoyant density contained characteristic MTV particles. The bands of lower isodensity consisted of viruslike particles having considerable variability in size and shape, which may represent incomplete MTV particles. The properties of isopycnically centrifuged MTV-free milk samples were clearly distinguishable from those of MTV-positive samples; no discrete light-scattering bands were formed, and no viruslike particles were observed in electron micrographs.
Rising hypospadias rates: disproving a myth

Hypospadias is one of the most common congenital abnormalities occurring in males. In recent years, the prevalence of hypospadias and whether that prevalence is rising or stable has become part of a larger debate over the potential effects of so-called 'endocrine disruptors', such as phthalates and bisphenol-A, on male reproductive health. This commentary critically examines allegations suggesting a worldwide increase in hypospadias rates. Despite the lack of scientific support for this hypothesis and for related claims that the disorders of male reproductive health are related to endocrine disruptors, these constructs remain firmly entrenched in popular literature, and are being used in part to justify litigation banning suspected endocrine disruptors such as phthalates and bisphenol-A. A review of the epidemiologic data on this issue amassed to date clearly demonstrates that the bulk of evidence refutes claims for an increase in hypospadias rates. This suggests that two of the three components of alleged testicular dysfunction syndrome, i.e. decline in sperm counts and rise in urogenital anomalies, lack clinical support. It further suggests that extrapolations from data derived in laboratory animal studies about alleged occult risks to humans of various candidate compounds are unwarranted at this time.
System Intervention Trauma to Child Sexual Abuse Victims Following Disclosure

This study attempts to discover if further traumatization occurs to sexually abused children through societal system interventions. The Traumagenic Model, developed by David Finkelhor, which explains the dynamics of trauma in child sexual abuse, was employed as the theoretical framework to understand how societal system interventions can produce or reinforce the previous trauma from sexual abuse. Ninety sexually abused children ages 9 to 19 were selected from three counties that have contrasting societal system interventions. The results of the study indicated that the number of interviews children experienced and a trusting relationship with a professional were statistically significant predictors of trauma scores. Other major system interventions, testifying and removal of the child from the home, were not statistically correlated to trauma scores. The majority of the children found the system a positive support in assisting them with the stress of the intervention and personal loss.
An Arnoldi Algorithm for Power-Delivery Networks With Variable Dielectric Constant and Loss Tangent

The tracking-sensitivity algorithm is an efficient method to calculate the changes in the network matrix of a circuit, when a global parameter, such as temperature, is continuously varied. In this paper, we apply the concept of tracking sensitivity on the frequency-domain simulation of power-delivery networks (PDNs) in chip packages and printed circuit boards. The global variable we consider is the complex permittivity of the dielectric. We present a methodology to calculate the change in the PDN impedance due to a variation in the dielectric constant, loss tangent, or both. This information is useful not only to understand any deviations between simulations and measurements, but also to understand the impact of the variability of these dielectric properties on the performance of the PDN. Using the tracking-sensitivity algorithm, we can efficiently recalculate the impedance matrix after changing a global parameter. The classical tracking-sensitivity algorithm was based on a power series expansion. This paper presents a more accurate approach based on the block Arnoldi algorithm.
Analysis of DC grounding systems

A theoretical error analysis of methods for analyzing grounding systems constructed from copper or galvanized steel conductors of small diameter shows that they are not suitable for application to DC grounding systems (or electrodes) and buried metallic pipes of large cross section. A suitable method is presented along with validation data and typical results. The advantages of the proposed method are the accurate computation of touch and step voltages for large-cross-section electrodes and the accurate computation of electrode maximum current density. The method has been implemented in a computer code under the symbolic name DCGRND. >
Carpal Ligament Injuries, Pathomechanics, and Classification

Carpal instability is a complex array of maladaptive and posttraumatic conditions that lead to the inability of the wrist to maintain anatomic relationships under normal loads. Many different classification schemes have evolved to explain the mechanistic evolution and pathophysiology of carpal instability, including 2 of the most common malalignment patterns: volar intercalated segment instability and the more common dorsal intercalated segment instability. Recent classifications emphasize the relationships within and between the rows of carpal bones. Future research is likely to unify the disparate paradigms used to describe wrist instability.
Sleep deprivation attenuates inflammatory responses and ischemic cell death

Although the biological function of sleep remains uncertain, the consequences of sleep deprivation are well-described and are reported to be detrimental to cognitive function and affective well-being. Sleep deprivation also is strongly associated with elevated risk factors for cardiovascular disease. We used a mouse model of cardiac arrest/cardiopulmonary resuscitation to test the hypothesis that acute sleep deprivation would exacerbate neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration after global ischemia. The resulting data led to a rejection of our hypothesis that sleep deprivation is necessarily detrimental. Indeed, acute sleep deprivation (ASD) was associated with a reduction in ischemia-induced interleukin 1β (IL-1β) gene expression and attenuation of neuronal damage in the hippocampus. Further, sleep deprivation increased gene expression of two anti-inflammatory cytokines, IL-6 and IL-10 that are associated with improved ischemic outcome. To determine whether the anti-inflammatory properties of ASD were specific to ischemia, mice were treated systemically with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a potent inflammogen. Acute sleep deprivation attenuated the central and peripheral increase in tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα) and increased IL-10 expression. Together, the ischemia and LPS data suggest that, ASD produces an anti-inflammatory bias that could be exploited to improve medical procedures that are compromised by inflammation.
What we can learn from the early history of sovereign debt

Many people believe that the early development of sovereign debt depended on institutions, but there are two very different ways of presenting this narrative and two very different conclusions one might draw for sovereign debt today. According to the first, this was an impartial story involving executive constraints, shared governance, increased monitoring, and increased transparency — in other words things that sound unambiguously good. According to the second narrative this was a story of distributive politics. States had the best access to credit when institutions gave government creditors privileged access to decision making while restricting the influence of those who paid the taxes to reimburse debts. This was a situation where institutions fostered commitment, but at a cost, and sometimes they may not even have been welfare enhancing. In this paper I present evidence from seven centuries of European history, and I suggest that available data support the distributive politics interpretation. I then draw implications for how we think about the politics of sovereign debt today.
A rare case of prototheca algaemia in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus and recent belimumab infusion

Novel agents for the treatment of immune-mediated diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have been increasingly used as an alternative to or in combination with conventional therapies. Belimumab, a human monoclonal antibody that inhibits B-cell activating factor (BAFF), has demonstrated efficacy in moderate-to-severe SLE with similar adverse effects when compared to other biologic agents and conventional SLE therapies. Here, we describe a woman with SLE and diabetes mellitus (DM) on immunosuppressive therapy for five years who was admitted to the hospital for pneumonia but had a complicated hospital course with multiple infections and, most notably, a nosocomial algaemia due to Prototheca wickerhamii, which was treated successfully with amphotericin B. She had recently received three belimumab infusions as an outpatient prior to admission to the hospital. To the best of our knowledge no cases of human protothecosis in patients receiving belimumab have been described in the English literature; however, unusual infections have to be considered in all patients undergoing immunosuppressive therapies who persist with fever despite conventional antimicrobials.
Gender Differences in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder After Motor Vehicle Accidents

OBJECTIVE: Women have higher rates of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than men. The authors examined prior trauma, PTSD, major depression, anxiety disorder not including PTSD, and peritraumatic dissociation; current peritraumatic dissociation; and passenger injury as possible explanations for the different rates of acute PTSD in women and men after a serious motor vehicle accident. METHOD: Subjects age 18–65 years who had been in a serious motor vehicle accident (N=122) were assessed with the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-III-R and the Peritraumatic Dissociative Experiences Questionnaire—Rater Version 1 month after the accident. RESULTS: Women did not differ from men in meeting the overall reexperiencing criterion for a diagnosis of PTSD (criterion B), but women were at greater risk for the specific reexperiencing symptoms of intense feelings of distress in situations similar to the motor vehicle accident and physical reactivity to memories of the motor vehicle accident. Women were 4.7 times ...
PROTINFO: new algorithms for enhanced protein structure predictions.

We describe new algorithms and modules for protein structure prediction available as part of the PROTINFO web server. The modules, comparative and de novo modelling, have significantly improved back-end algorithms that were rigorously evaluated at the sixth meeting on the Critical Assessment of Protein Structure Prediction methods. We were one of four server groups invited to make an oral presentation (only the best performing groups are asked to do so). These two modules allow a user to submit a protein sequence and return atomic coordinates representing the tertiary structure of that protein. The PROTINFO server is available at http://protinfo. compbio.washington.edu.
Towards evolving a better repressor

Transcriptional regulation is an essential component of all metabolic pathways. At the most basic level, a protein binds to a particular DNA sequence (operator) on the genome and either positively or negatively alters the level of transcription. Together, the protein and its operator form an epigenetic switch that regulates gene expression. In an effort to produce a ‘better’ switch, we have discovered novel facets of the lac operon that are responsible for optimal functionality. We have uncovered a relationship between operator binding affinity and inducibility and demonstrated that the operator DNA is not a passive component of a genetic switch; it is responsible for establishing binding affinity, specificity as well as translational efficiency. In addition, an operator's directionality can indirectly affect gene expression. Unraveling the basic properties of this classical epigenetic switch demonstrates that multiple factors must be optimized in designing a better switch.
Fungal Zuotin Proteins Evolved from MIDA1-like Factors by Lineage-Specific Loss of MYB Domains

Proteins are often characterized by the presence of multiple domains, which make specific contributions to their cellular function. While the gain of domains in proteins by duplication and shuffling is well established, domain loss is poorly documented. Here, we provide evidence that domain loss has played an important role in the evolution of protein architecture and function by demonstrating that fungal Zuotin proteins evolved from MIDA1-like proteins, present in animals and plants, by complete loss of the carboxyl-terminal MYB domains. Phylogenetic analyses of the DnaJ motif (the J domain) present in both Zuotin and MIDA1 proteins were complicated by the limited length and profound differences in evolutionary rates exhibited by this domain. To rigorously examine J domain phylogeny, we combined the nonparametric bootstrap with Monte Carlo simulation. This method, which we have designated the resampled parametric bootstrap, allowed us to assess type I and type II error associated with these analyses. These results revealed significant support for domain loss rather than domain gain or gene loss involving paralogs. The absence of sequences related to the MIDA1 MYB domains in Saccharomyces cerevisiae further indicates that the domains have been completely lost, consistent with known functional differences between Zuotin and MIDA1 proteins. These analyses suggest that the description of additional examples of complete domain loss may provide a method to identify orthologous proteins exhibiting functional differences using genomic sequence data.
A Practice Strategy for Robot Learning Control

"Trajectory Extension Learning" is a new technique for Learning Control in Robots which assumes that there exists some parameter of the desired trajectory that can be smoothly varied from a region of easy solvability of the dynamics to a region of desired behavior which may have more difficult dynamics. By gradually varying the parameter, practice movements remain near the desired path while a Neural Network learns to approximate the inverse dynamics. For example, the average speed of motion might be varied, and the inverse dynamics can be "bootstrapped" from slow movements with simpler dynamics to fast movements. This provides an example of the more general concept of a "Practice Strategy" in which a sequence of intermediate tasks is used to simplify learning a complex task. I show an example of the application of this idea to a real 2-joint direct drive robot arm.
Effects of hyperkalaemia on sinus nodal function in dogs: sino-ventricular conduction

The effects of hyperkalaemia on electrograms recorded from the sinus node, crista terminalis, Bachmann bundle, right and left atria and His bundle were studied in anaesthetised dogs. Increasing hyperkalaemia up to about 8.5 mol X litre-1 produced: 1) a gradual prolongation of the sino-crista terminalis interval, and 2) a shift in sinus pacemaker location. Hyperkalaemia between 8.5 and 10.0 mmol X litre-1 produced arrest of most of the atria but persistence of electrical activity of the sinus node, crista terminalis, Bachmann bundle, His bundle and ventricles and sustained sino-ventricular conduction. During the course of increasing hyperkalaemia, right atrial electrograms from sites closer to the crista terminalis disappeared later than those from sites more remote from the crista terminalis. Decremental conduction through sites progressively remote from the axis of the crista terminalis (and possibly also other "preferential pathways") seemed to be the basis of hyperkalaemic atrial arrest.