cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Bladder regeneration using small intestinal submucosa as a scaffold: experience in five children

Purpose Small intestinal submucosa (SIS) has been successfully used as an acellular scaffold for bladder regeneration in animal models. A preliminary experience in children is reported. Material and methodsS Five exstrophic patients, (3 males, 2 females), presenting with poor bladder capacity/compliance without significant dry-intervals after successful primary repair underwent in vivo bladder augmentation using a SIS-graft. Patients were investigated before (Time0) and after surgery (mean 7.25 months Time1) by ultrasonography, non-invasive urodynamics, cystogram, cystoscopy and bladder biopsy for histology of native and regenerated bladder wall. Bladder capacity and dry-intervals were compared pre-operatively and post-operatively. Student T-test was adopted for statistical analysis. Results Mean patient age at surgery was 10–4 years (8–17 years). The SIS graft was 5 x 4 cm wide. The post-operative periods were uneventful. Mean follow-up was 2.5 years (6 months–4.3 years). Bladder capacity and dry-intervals at Time1 are reported in table; bladder capacity was significantly increased (p 0.05). No bladder stones, mucous or diverticulae were observed. At Time1 bladder biopsy,the SIS-membrane was not evident; normal transitional epithelial mucosa, smooth muscle fascicles, small nerve trunks and vessels were found with abundant collagen and fibroblasts. AGE BL CAPACITY (cc) Time0 DRY INTERVAL (min) Time0 BL CAPACITY (cc) Time1 DRY INTERVAL (min) Time1 8 80 45 85 (+6%) 45 8 90 90 115 (+26%) 100 (+15%) 8 90 45 110 (+22%) 50 (+11%) 11 120 90 140 (+18%) 100 (+15%) 17 130 60 155 (+20%) 75 (+25%) p = 0.029 p = 0.069 Conclusions Bladder wall regeneration is feasible in exstrophic patients offering an option for a significant increase of bladder capacity. Histology is imperfect showing high collagen and fibroblast components. Adequate outlet resistance and bladder cycling, with careful long-term follow-up are recommended. Further research studies for better modulation of the regenerative process are needed before extensive application in humans.
Barnacle reattachment: a tool for studying barnacle adhesion

Standard approaches for measuring adhesion strength of fouling organisms use barnacles, tubeworms or oysters settled and grown in the field or laboratory, to a measurable size. These approaches suffer from the vagaries of larval supply, settlement behavior, predation, disturbance and environmental stress. Procedures for reattaching barnacles to experimental surfaces are reported. When procedures are followed, adhesion strength measurements on silicone substrata after 2 weeks are comparable to those obtained using standard methods. Hydrophilic surfaces require reattachment for 2-4 weeks. The adhesion strength of barnacles in reattachment assays was positively correlated to results obtained from field testing a series of experimental polysiloxane fouling-release coatings (r = 0.89). The reattachment method allows for precise barnacle orientation, enabling the use of small surfaces and the potential for automation. The method enables down-selection of coatings from combinatorial approaches to manageable levels for definitive field testing. Reattachment can be used with coatings that combine antifouling and fouling-release technologies.
Nonlinear Robust Control Design for a Supercavitating Vehicle

Supercavitating vehicles can achieve very high speed but also pose technical challenges in maneuvering, system stability and control. Compared to a fully-wetted vehicle for which substantial lift is generated due to vortex shedding off the hull, the supercavitating vehicles are enveloped by gas surface thus the lift is provided by control surface deflections of cavitator and fins, as well as planing force between the vehicle and the cavity. The nonlinearity in the modeling of cavitator, fin, and in particular, the planing force make the control design more challenging. In this paper, a sliding-mode based controller is designed for the longitudinal dynamics of a supercavitating vehicle model. The stability and robustness of the final design are analyzed by the Lyapunov method and verified using simulation. A high-gain observer is also designed to estimate the vertical velocity of the supercavitating vehicle, which is not directly measurable, and then simulation results are presented for the (partial) output-feedback sliding-mode controller.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Phosphorylation of SNAP-23 in activated human platelets.

Phosphorylation of SNARE proteins may provide a critical link between cell activation and secretory processes. Platelets contain all three members of the SNAP-23/25/29 gene family, but by comparison to brain tissue, SNAP-23 is the most highly enriched of these proteins in platelets. SNAP-23 function is required for exocytosis from platelet α, dense, and lysosomal granules. SNAP-23 was phosphorylated largely on serine residues in platelets activated with thrombin. Phosphorylation kinetics paralleled or preceded granule secretion. Inhibition studies suggested that SNAP-23 phosphorylation proceeds largely through a protein kinase C (PKC) mechanism and purified PKC directly phosphorylated recombinant (r-) SNAP-23 (up to 0.3 mol of phosphate/mol of protein). Five major tryptic phosphopeptides were identified in cellular SNAP-23 isolated from activated platelets; three phosphopeptides co-migrated with those identified in PKC-phosphorylated r-SNAP-23. In contrast, only one major phosphopeptide was identified when SNAP-23, engaged in a ternary SNARE complex, was phosphorylated by PKC. Ion trap mass spectrometry revealed that platelet SNAP-23 was phosphorylated at Ser23/Thr24 and Ser161, after cell activation by thrombin; these sites were also identified in PKC-phosphorylated r-SNAP-23. SNAP-23 mutants that mimic phosphorylation at Ser23/Thr24 inhibited syntaxin 4 interactions, whereas a phosphorylation mutant of Ser161 had only minor effects. Taken together these studies show that SNAP-23 is phosphorylated in platelets during cell activation through a PKC-related mechanism at two or more sites with kinetics that parallel or precede granule secretion. Because mutants that mimic SNAP-23 phosphorylation affect syntaxin 4 interactions, we hypothesize that SNAP-23 phosphorylation may be important for modulating SNARE-complex interactions during membrane trafficking and fusion.
Why Do Tamarins Swallow Such Large Seeds? A Response to Heymann’s Commentary

In a manuscript published several years ago in the International Journal of Primatology we (Garber and Kitron International Journal of Primatology, 18, 523–538, 1997) offered two hypotheses —a feeding efficiency hypothesis and a curative function hypothesis— to account for the fact that several, if not all, species of tamarin monkeys (Saguinus) commonly swallow very large seeds (mean seed length 1.12–1.47 cm depending on the tamarin species) that pass through their digestive tract intact. Recently, Heymann (2013), using data from Knogge and Heymann (Folia Primatologica, 74, 33–47, 2003), Muller (2007), and Wenz et al. (Parasitology, 137, 675–684, 2010), attempted to test the curative function hypothesis and argued that there was no support for the contention that seeds passing through the tamarin gut acted to dislodge or expel intestinal parasites. Here we respond to Heymann’s commentary. Although we acknowledge the difficulties of testing self-medication hypotheses on wild primates, we also point out that using data sets not originally designed to test such hypotheses directly limits the strength of Heymann’s analyses. Moreover, we postulated that the mechanical advantage provided by seeds in expelling parasites was based on the number of large seeds present in the tamarin gut and the volume of seeds present in the tamarin gut, and not simply on whether fecal samples did or did not contain seeds. Finally we question why Heymann (2013) set a threshold for seed length in his analyses at ≥0.5 cm when based on his own data (Knogge and Heymann Folia Primatologica, 74, 33–47, 2003) the mean length of seeds voided by his tamarin study groups exceeded 1.7 cm. We commend Heymann for advancing this discussion; however, we feel that given our current state of knowledge the curative function hypothesis remains a viable explanation to account for seed swallowing in wild tamarins.
AGRIN AND ACETYLCHOLINE RECEPTORS ARE REMOVED FROM ABANDONED SYNAPTIC SITES AT REINNERVATED FROG NEUROMUSCULAR JUNCTIONS

Changes in the distribution of agrin and acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) were examined during reinnervation and following permanent denervation as a means of understanding mechanisms controlling the distribution of these molecules. Following nerve damage in the peripheral nervous system, regenerating nerve terminals preferentially return to previous synaptic sites leading to the restoration of synaptic activity. However, not all portions of original synaptic sites are reoccupied: Some of the synaptic sites are abandoned by both the nerve terminal and the Schwann cell. Abandoned synaptic sites contain agrin, AChRs, and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) without an overlying nerve terminal or Schwann cell providing a unique location to observe changes in the distribution of these synapse-specific molecules. The distribution of anti-agrin and AChR staining at abandoned synaptic sites was altered during the process of reinnervation, changing from a dense, wide distribution to a punctate, pale pattern, and finally becoming entirely absent. Agrin and AChRs were removed from abandoned synaptic sites in reinnervated frog neuromuscular junctions, while in contralateral muscles which were permanently denervated, anti-agrin and AChR staining remained at abandoned synaptic sites. Decreasing synaptic activity during reinnervation delayed the removal of agrin and AChRs from abandoned synaptic sites. Altogether, these results support the hypothesis that synaptic activity controls a cellular mechanism that directs the removal of agrin from synaptic basal lamina and the loss of agrin leads to the dispersal of AChRs.
Rearrangements and stereomutations of metallacycles derived from allenes and imidozirconium complexes.

The mechanisms of the rearrangements and stereoinversion of azametallacyclobutenes generated via [2+2] cycloaddition of allenes and imidozirconium complexes have been studied. Metallacycles derived from allenes bearing β-hydrogen atoms racemize at room temperature by reversible β-hydride elimination, a process which is also responsible for their eventual conversion to monoazadiene complexes. Metallacycles derived from diarylallenes racemize by reversible thermal bond homolysis at 95 °C; racemization of these metallacycles is also catalyzed by mild oxidants.
Demand signal modelling: A short-range panel forecasting algorithm for semiconductor firm device-level demand

A model-based approach to the forecasting of short-range product demand within the semiconductor industry is presented. Device-level forecast models are developed via a novel two-stage stochastic algorithm that permits leading indicators to be optimally blended with smoothed estimates of unit-level demand. Leading indicators include backlog, bookings, delinquencies, inventory positions, and distributor resales. Group level forecasts are easily obtained through upwards aggregation of the device level forecasts. The forecasting algorithm is demonstrated at two major US-based semiconductor manufacturers. The first application involves a product family consisting of 254 individual devices with a 26-month training dataset and eight-month ex situ validation dataset. A subsequent demonstration refines the approach, and is demonstrated across a panel of six high volume devices with a 29-month training dataset and a 13-month ex situ validation dataset. In both implementations, significant improvement is realised versus legacy forecasting systems. [Received 11 May 2007; Revised 5 September 2007; Accepted 15 October 2007]
Abnormal anal sphincter response in chronically constipated children

Using a strain gauge, we measured anal sphincter function in 116 chronically constipated and 18 healthy children. Eighteen constipated children were re-evaluated two months later (receiving laxative), and 15 were again studied seven to 12 months later. The anal resting tone varied along the length of the anal canal and was highest at 1 to 1.5 cm from the anal verge. This region was used to study the resting motor activity of the internal anal sphincter, the amplitude of the rectosphincteric reflex after 30 and 60 ml rectal distension, and the rectosphincteric reflex threshold. The mean anal resting tone was significantly lower in constipated than in control children ( P P
Outcome-Based Education: A Critique of the Theory, Philosophy, and Practice

The trouble with Outcome-Based education is that it is an idea ahead of public education's ability t o deliver. A research-derived knowledge base for implementing OBE remains lacking. Conversely, the philosophy now underlying OBE is shown to be surreptitiously loaded with a value orientation previously rejected by a sizeable proportion of the public While originally intended to be a neutral and objective approach to educational accountability, OBE is now a vehicle that promotes the mandatory learning of specific values-oriented content. Highly amenable to biblical teachings, OBE is regrettably an anathema to many Christian educators.
Shōfujin (Little Women): Recreating Jo for the Girls of Meiji Japan

Louisa May Alcott's famous novel Little Women has been translated into Japanese several times. It was first rendered accessible to Japanese readers at the end of the Meiji period in 1906 by an amateur translator, Kitada Shūho, about whom very little is known. This article discusses how Kitada's version introduced the concept of the Christian home and the idea of modern womanhood to the Japanese audience. The approach taken by the translator throws valuable light on the cultural norms of Meiji society. Men held specific expectations about the contribution women could make in their domestic roles to the modern nation, encapsulated in the Good Wife Wise Mother (ryōsai kenbo) ideology propagated through the girls' education system. The Kitada translation upheld these expectations, but at the same time its publication spread enthusiasm among educated young Japanese women to contribute prose to the flora of girls' magazines (shōjo zasshi) appearing around the turn of the twentieth century. Thus it appears also ...
Improving Classroom Quality with The RULER Approach to Social and Emotional Learning: Proximal and Distal Outcomes

The RULER Approach to Social and Emotional Learning ("RULER") is designed to improve the quality of classroom interactions through professional development and classroom curricula that infuse emotional literacy instruction into teaching-learning interactions. Its theory of change specifies that RULER first shifts the emotional qualities of classrooms, which are then followed, over time, by improvements in classroom organization and instructional support. A 2-year, cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted to test hypotheses derived from this theory. Sixty-two urban schools either integrated RULER into fifth- and sixth-grade English language arts (ELA) classrooms or served as comparison schools, using their standard ELA curriculum only. Results from multilevel modeling with baseline adjustments and structural equation modeling support RULER's theory of change. Compared to classrooms in comparison schools, classrooms in RULER schools exhibited greater emotional support, better classroom organization, and more instructional support at the end of the second year of program delivery. Improvements in classroom organization and instructional support at the end of Year 2 were partially explained by RULER's impacts on classroom emotional support at the end of Year 1. These findings highlight the important contribution of emotional literacy training and development in creating engaging, empowering, and productive learning environments.
Analysis of the pyrolysis products of dimethyldichlorosilane in the chemical vapor deposition of silicon carbide in argon

A study of the products and reactions occurring during the chemical vapor deposition of silicon carbide from dimethyldichlorosilane in argon is presented. Reaction conditions were as follows: 700 to 1100 C, a contact time of about 1 min, and a pressure of 1 atm. At these conditions, the gases that formed were mainly methane, hydrogen, silicon tetrachloride, trichlorosilane, and methyltrichlorosilane. The silicon carbide solid that formed showed the presence of hydrogen and chloride as impurities, which might degrade the silicon carbide properties. These impurities were eliminated slowly, even at 1100 C, forming hydrogen, trichlorosilane, and silicon tetrachloride.
Competition, Learning and Investment in New Technology

Efforts to describe the evolution of production costs must simultaneously include the impact of investment in new technologies as well as experience-based learning. In this paper we formulate a dynamic model of technological investments, which includes the impacts of learning curve effects, investment levels in new technologies with uncertain timing, and competitive responses. Our results highlight the interaction of investment and output rate decisions in monopolistic and duopolistic situations, and illuminate the impact of the planning horizon length on such decisions. The model results elaborate upon how the attractiveness of new technologies is related to the firm's ability to learn using its existing technology, how competition can increase or decrease the market size for new technologies, and how investment levels are driven in opposite directions by considering longer horizons on one hand and the competitive response on the other.
Amino Acid Biosynthetic Cost and Protein Conservation

Protein products of highly expressed genes tend to favor amino acids that have lower average biosynthetic costs (i.e., they exhibit metabolic efficiency). While this trend has been observed in several studies, the specific sites where cost-reducing substitutions accumulate have not been well characterized. Toward that end, weighted costs in conserved and variable positions were evaluated across a total of 9,119 homologous proteins in four mammalian orders (primate, carnivore, rodent, and artiodactyls), which together contain a total of 20,457,072 amino acids. Degree of conservation at homologous positions in these mammalian proteins and average-weighted cost across all positions within a single protein are significantly correlated. Dividing human genes into two classes (those with and those without CpG islands in their promoters) suggests that humans also preferentially utilize less costly amino acids in highly expressed genes. In contrast to the intuitive expectation that the relatively weak selective force associated with metabolic efficiency would be a selection pressure in complex multicellular organisms, the overall level of selective constraint within the variable regions of mammalian proteins allows the metabolic efficiency to derive a reduction of overall biosynthetic cost, particularly in genes with the highest levels of expression.
Improving the Upside-Down Response-to-Intervention Triangle With a Systematic, Effective Elementary School Reading Team

In today's educational environment, schools struggle to meet the academic needs of every student. Many schools are challenged by the use of a response-to-intervention framework in which too many students need strong interventions. This article details a data-driven, decision-making response-to-intervention reading team model in which teachers, staff, and administrators from a school actively take responsibility for and monitor the school's academic results to improve classroom and intervention instruction.
EFFECTS OF GRANULOCYTE-COLONY STIMULATING FACTOR ON TERM AND PRETERM NEONATAL NEUTROPHIL ADHESIVE PHENOTYPES. • 1304

EFFECTS OF GRANULOCYTE-COLONY STIMULATING FACTOR ON TERM AND PRETERM NEONATAL NEUTROPHIL ADHESIVE PHENOTYPES. • 1304
A process-driven computing model for reconfigurable semiconductor manufacturing

Reconfigurability is essential for semiconductor manufacturing systems to remain competitive. Reconfigurable systems avoid costly modifications required to change and adapt to changes in product, production and services. A fully automated, collaborative, and integrated while reconfigurable manufacturing system proves cost-effective in the long term and is a promising strategy for the semiconductor manufacturing industry. However, there is a lack of computing models to facilitate the design and development of control and management systems in a truly reconfigurable manner. This paper presents an innovative computing model for reconfigurable systems and controlled manufacturing processes while allowing for the integration of modern technologies to facilitate reconfiguration, such as radio frequency identification (RFID) and reconfigurable field programmable gate array (FPGA). Shop floor manufacturing activities are modeled as processes from a business perspective. A process-driven formal method that builds on prior research on virtual production lines is proposed for the formation of a reconfigurable cross-facility manufacturing system. The trajectory of the controlled manufacturing systems is optimized for on-demand production services. Reconfigurable process controllers are introduced in support of the essential system reconfigurability of future semiconductor manufacturing systems. Implementation of this approach is also presented.
Moderating Factors in the Path from Physical Abuse to Attempted Suicide in Adolescents: Application of the Interpersonal‐Psychological Theory of Suicide

Childhood physical abuse is a major risk factor for suicide attempt, but factors that moderate this risk remain largely unexamined. Moderated mediation analysis was used with 186 adolescents who responded to the Profiles of Student Life: Attitudes and Behavior survey. Physical abuse increased risk directly and indirectly through reduced self-esteem. Involvement in youth programs moderated the direct effect. Community service moderated the indirect effect. Results indicate 2 hours per week of involvement in youth programs and 2 hours per week of community service mitigated suicide attempt risk associated with abuse. Providing avenues for youth experiencing abuse to increase their community service and involvement is recommended.
Body Image Distortion and Three Types of Weight Loss Behaviors Among Nonoverweight Girls in the United States

Abstract Purpose To examine the relationship between body image distortion (BID) and onset of three types of weight loss behavior among nonoverweight girls in the United States. Methods Data were from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health) (n = 20,745) and included 5,173 nonoverweight (body mass index [BMI] Results At Wave I, 85% of nonoverweight girls engaged in weight control behaviors, and 29% displayed BID (i.e., overestimation of weight status). When compared to girls without BID, those with BID at Wave I had 4.3 times greater odds of onset of extreme weight loss behavior (e.g., vomiting, laxatives, diet pills) (OR = 4.5, CI=2.44–7.42) and 2.3 times higher odds of onset of dieting to control weight (OR = 2.30, CI=1.72–3.06) 1 year later. Girls who practiced extreme weight loss had 10.7 times greater odds of continuing unsafe practices 1 year later than girls who did not (OR = 10.67, CI=4.27–26.63). BID was unrelated to exercise for weight control. Conclusions BID predicts onset of unsafe, but not safe, weight loss behavior among nonoverweight girls. Brief assessment of BID may help identify nonoverweight girls at risk for unsafe weight loss practices and strengthen prevention efforts.
The change in the rate of vaginal birth after caesarean section

The objective of this study was to determine whether, and to what degree, the change in the vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC) rate is due to a change in the characteristics of the obstetric population, the undertaking of a trial of labour (TOL), or the tendency to abandon a TOL once it has been initiated. All women with one prior low transverse caesarean and a vertex singleton gestation at term were identified in a registry of caesarean deliveries occurring at 8 academic centers during a four-year period (1999 – 2002). Women were classified by their predicted chance of VBAC and year-to-year differences were analyzed. Of the 9643 women who met criteria for analysis, 5334 (55.3%) underwent a TOL. From 1999 to 2002, the VBAC rate underwent a steady decline: 51.8% to 45.1% to 37.4% to 29.8% (P < .001). Although there were some changes in the characteristics of the population that predispose to successful VBAC, as well as some reduction in the chance that a VBAC is successful once a TOL is undertaken, the most pervasive reason for this decline was that women became increasingly likely to forego a TOL, regardless of their likelihood of vaginal delivery. Based on these results, it appears that the change over time in the VBAC rate is multifactorial, although the greatest change has been a decrease in the frequency with which women undertake a TOL, and this change is observed in all categories of the chance of a successful TOL.
Hepatitis B surface antigen binds to human serum albumin cross-linked by transglutaminase

It has been postulated that polymerized human serum albumin may play a role in the infection of hepatocytes by hepatitis B virus, because both the envelope of hepatitis B virus (HBsAg) and hepatocytes exhibit binding activity for human serum albumin after cross-linking by glutaraldehyde. Since glutaraldehyde-dependent cross-linking of albumin molecules is not likely to occur in vivo, we considered the possibility that albumin may be polymerized by the action of transglutaminase enzymes present in plasma as activated factor XIII or released into plasma from tissues. Guinea pig liver transglutaminase covalently cross-linked human serum albumin molecules into dimers, trimers and polymers up to hexamers as shown by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in sodium dodecyl sulfate. HBsAg particles bound transglutaminase-cross-linked as well as glutaraldehyde-cross-linked human serum albumin as demonstrated by radioimmunoassay and immunoelectron microscopy. The binding was blocked by preincubation of HBsAg with transglutaminase- or glutaraldehyde-cross-linked human serum albumin, anti-HBs or monoclonal anti-pre-S2, but not by polymerized bovine or rat serum albumin or by monomeric human serum albumin. These data indicate that HBsAg particles contain specific binding sites for transglutaminase-cross-linked human serum albumin, but it remains to be determined whether the albumin polymers play a role in the attachment of hepatitis B virus to hepatocytes.
Investment in Infrastructure as Determinant of Metropolitan Productivity

Utilizing newly assembled data on per capita metropolitan investments from the Census of Governments - Finance Statistics, this paper assesses the effects of local (i.e., non-state and non-federal) government investments in public capital on metropolitan factor productivity. Differences in productivity across metropolitan areas are modeled as a Hicks-neutral production function shifter, and the analysis covers 261 metropolitan areas of the United States for the period 1977 to 1992. These findings indicate that there is no significant relationship between levels of public capital investments and the levels of metropolitan productivity for the periods 1977, 1982, 1987, and 1992; however, a positive and significant relationship is found between the growth rate of local government investments in public capital and the growth rate of metropolitan productivity for the fifteen-year period.
The role of religious coping in adjustment to cancer.

This study tested a model of adjustment to cancer in which social support, disease impact, and religious coping were hypothesized to have an impact on adjustment to cancer that was mediated by self-efficacy. Two hundred and ninety-two people with cancer completed questionnaires. Three analyses were undertaken: first, the structure of the Religious Problem Solving Scale was assessed by a factor analysis in which two factors emerged, Deferring–Collaborative and Self-Directing; second, the resulting factors' relationships to outcome measures were assessed through correlational and regression analyses; third, a mediated model of coping was tested with self-efficacy as a mediating variable between religious coping and adjustment. The Deferring–Collaborative factor had positive relationships with most of the variables and was partially mediated by self-efficacy. The results indicate that religious coping has no relationship to quality of life, a positive relationship with adjustment, and was more important in this study than available social support. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diffusion of Macromolecules in Agarose Gels: Comparison of Linear and Globular Configurations

The diffusion coefficients (D) of different types of macromolecules (proteins, dextrans, polymer beads, and DNA) were measured by fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) both in solution and in 2% agarose gels to compare transport properties of these macromolecules. Diffusion measurements were conducted with concentrations low enough to avoid macromolecular interactions. For gel measurements, diffusion data were fitted according to different theories: polymer chains and spherical macromolecules were analyzed separately. As chain length increases, diffusion coefficients of DNA show a clear shift from a Rouse-like behavior (DG congruent with N0-0.5) to a reptational behavior (DG congruent with N0-2.0). The pore size, a, of a 2% agarose gel cast in a 0.1 M PBS solution was estimated. Diffusion coefficients of the proteins and the polymer beads were analyzed with the Ogston model and the effective medium model permitting the estimation of an agarose gel fiber radius and hydraulic permeability of the gels. Not only did flexible macromolecules exhibit greater mobility in the gel than did comparable-size rigid spherical particles, they also proved to be a more useful probe of available space between fibers.
Cytokine-Neuroantigen Fusion Proteins as a New Class of Tolerogenic, Therapeutic Vaccines for Treatment of Inflammatory Demyelinating Disease in Rodent Models of Multiple Sclerosis

Myelin-specific induction of tolerance represents a promising means to modify the course of autoimmune inflammatory demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS). Our laboratory has focused on a novel preclinical strategy for the induction of tolerance to the major encephalitogenic epitopes of myelin that cause experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in rats and mice. This novel approach is based on the use of cytokine-NAg (neuroantigen) fusion proteins comprised of the native cytokine fused either with or without a linker to a NAg domain. Several single-chain cytokine-NAg fusion proteins were tested including GMCSF-NAg, IFNbeta-NAg, NAgIL16, and IL2-NAg. These cytokine-NAg vaccines were tolerogenic, therapeutic vaccines that had tolerogenic activity when given as pre-treatments before encephalitogenic immunization and also were effective as therapeutic interventions during the effector phase of EAE. The rank order of inhibitory activity was: GMCSF-NAg, IFNbeta-NAg > NAgIL16 > IL2-NAg > MCSF-NAg, IL4-NAg, IL13-NAg, IL1RA-NAg, and NAg. Several cytokine-NAg fusion proteins exhibited antigen-targeting activity. High affinity binding of the cytokine domain to specific-cytokine receptors on particular subsets of APC resulted in the concentrated uptake of the NAg domain by those APC which in turn facilitated the enhanced processing and presentation of the NAg domain on cell surface MHC class II (MHCII) glycoproteins. For most cytokine-NAg vaccines, the covalent linkage of the cytokine domain and NAg domain was required for inhibition of EAE, thereby indicating that antigenic targeting of the NAg domain to APC was also required in vivo for tolerogenic activity. Overall, these studies introduced a new concept of cytokine-NAg fusion proteins as a means to induce tolerance and to inhibit the effector phase of autoimmune disease. The approach has broad application for suppressive vaccination as a therapy for autoimmune diseases such as MS.
Group learning using contrast NMF : Application to functional and structural MRI of schizophrenia

Non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) has increasingly been used as a tool in signal processing in the last couple of years. NMF, like independent component analysis (ICA) is useful for decomposing high dimensional data sets into a lower dimensional space. Here, we use NMF to learn the features of both structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI/fMRI) data. NMF can be applied to perform group analysis of imaging data and we apply it to learn the spatial patterns which linearly covary among subjects for both sMRI and fMRI. We add an additional contrast term to NMF (called co-NMF) to identify features distinctive between two groups. We apply our approach to a dataset consisting of schizophrenia patients and healthy controls. The results from co-NMF make sense in light of expectations and are improved compared to the NMF results. Our method is general and may prove to be a useful tool for identifying differences between multiple groups.
Experimental Study on the Effect of Synthetic Jet on Flow Boiling Instability in a Microchannel

Two-phase flow instability in microchannel flow boiling exhibits pressure fluctuations with different frequencies and amplitudes. One possible way to suppress the dynamic instability is to introduce synthetic jet near the inlet of the channel. An important feature of synthetic jet is that it allows momentum transfer into the microchannel flow without net mass injection into it. The strength and frequency of the jet can be controlled by changing the driving voltage and frequency of the piezoelectric driven jet actuator. The effects of the synthetic jet together with upstream throttling are evaluated as a means of stabilizing the flow boiling instability. The results are compared with the case without synthetic jet. The pressure dynamics of the microchannel flow caused by the synthetic jet are also analyzed.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Combining mathematical models and statistical methods to understand and predict the dynamics of antibiotic-sensitive mutants in a population of resistant bacteria during experimental evolution.

Temporarily discontinuing the use of antibiotics has been proposed as a means to eliminate resistant bacteria by allowing sensitive clones to sweep through the population. In this study, we monitored a tetracycline-sensitive subpopulation that emerged during experimental evolution of E. coli K12 MG1655 carrying the multiresistance plasmid pB10 in the absence of antibiotics. The fraction of tetracycline-sensitive mutants increased slowly over 500 generations from 0.1 to 7%, and loss of resistance could be attributed to a recombination event that caused deletion of the tet operon. To help understand the population dynamics of these mutants, three mathematical models were developed that took into consideration recurrent mutations, increased host fitness (selection), or a combination of both mechanisms (full model). The data were best explained by the full model, which estimated a high mutation frequency (λ = 3.11 × 10−5) and a significant but small selection coefficient (σ = 0.007). This study emphasized the combined use of experimental data, mathematical models, and statistical methods to better understand and predict the dynamics of evolving bacterial populations, more specifically the possible consequences of discontinuing the use of antibiotics.
Interference suppression for DS/CDMA

A direct-sequence spread spectrum (DS/SS) receiver for suppressing multiple-access interference in direct-sequence code-division multiple-access (DS/CDMA) communication systems is introduced. The proposed receiver does not require knowledge of other users' spreading codes, timing, or phase information. Moreover, the receiver allows the number of taps to be chosen independently of the processing gain and, hence, is easily applicable to CDMA systems employing either a small or a large processing gain. Performance analysis, including average probability of error and signal-to-noise ratio, is provided, and results are presented for systems varying from lightly loaded (for example, eight user/255 chip) to heavily loaded (for example, 50 user/200 chip). Performance results indicate that the proposed receiver outperforms the linear correlation receiver and, in many cases, it does so by a considerable margin.
Direct Frequency Modulation of Crystal Controlled Transistor Oscillators

Three types of HF and VHF crystal controlled transistor oscillators are experimentally studied to assess their frequency shift bandwidth and stability properties. The capacitance bridge oscillator exhibits a bandwidth under certain circuit conditions of 0.1 per cent of center frequency, with amplitude modulation of 1 db, but degraded frequency stability. Combining this oscillator with another exhibiting superior stability in the low VHF band results in a hybrid oscillator circuit in which frequency can be shifted 0.02 percent with good power regulation. Frequency stability is 0.46 ppm/ \degC and 3 ppm/10 per cent change in supply voltage. Most of the experiments were conducted at 35 Mc, but higher order modes to 150 Mc were also investigated.
Codependency, Loss Of Self, And Power:

The feminist critique that codependency and loss of self are related to power was tested in a sample of 122 college women and men in committed relationships. Participants completed two codependency measures, a loss of self scale, and three indices of power: perceived power, use of specific influence strategies, and decision making. Among both women and men, codependency and loss of self were positively related to the use of indirect strategies and negatively related to perceived power, and loss of self was negatively related to use of the direct strategies. Among women alone, codependency was also negatively related to use of direct strategies and loss of self negatively related to decision making. These correlational data provide support for a feminist critique of codependency as related to power; however, gender similarities suggest that the relations between power, loss of self, and codependency hold for college men as well as college women.
Viscoelasticity in shearing and accelerative flows - A simplified integral theory

Viscoelasticity in shearing and accelerative flows by integral theory, discussing stress distribution and pressure drop
Flexible automation investments: A problem formulation and solution procedure

In this paper, a multi-period replacement model, based on a mixed integer nonlinear programming formulation, is developed for flexible automation investments. The model takes into account the costs, benefits and effective utilization of several types of flexibility. The decision variables pertain to the selection and optimal implementation sequence for new, CNC modules, the replacement schedule for current equipment and the aggregate production plans for transition and subsequent periods in the planning horizon. The objective function maximizes the present worth of the cash flows over the planning horizon. A two-level, exact solution method is also developed, utilizing dynamic programming methodology for the higher level sub-problem and mixed integer-linear programming for the lower level sub-problem.
Spatial and temporal patterns of microcrustacean assemblage structure and secondary production in a wetland ecosystem

Summary 1. In contrast to extensive studies of zooplankton in lakes, the role of microcrustaceans in wetlands is not well studied. In this study, spatial and temporal patterns of microcrustacean assemblage structure and secondary production were quantified over a 2-year period in a southeastern U.S.A. wetland. 2. Thirty-two species, including 19 cladocerans, 10 copepods and three ostracods, generated different temporal patterns of density and production between vegetated (Nymphaea) and non-vegetated (open-water) zones reflecting species-specific differences in life histories. 3. Summer assemblages were dominated by small, planktonic filter-feeders, typified by high annual production/biomass (P/B) and daily production. In contrast, winter assemblages were dominated by larger, epibenthic detritivores with low P/B and high biomass. Seasonal shifts in the relative importance of planktonic species in the warmer months to benthic and epiphytic species in the cooler months suggest that energy flow pathways through microcrustaceans may vary seasonally. 4. Total annual production was higher during both years in the Nymphaea zone (13.0 g and 13.6 g DM m−2 year−1) than the open-water (8.2 and 6.3 g DM m−2 year−1), and was similar between years for the entire wetland pond (12.3 and 12.2 g DM m−2 year−1). 5. Although wetland ecosystems have been the subject of considerable ecological research in the past 20 years, our study is one of the few to demonstrate a highly diverse and relatively productive microcrustacean assemblage. Such comprehensive production studies can be used to quantify the ecological importance of microcrustaceans in freshwater wetland ecosystems.
Vitellogenin in Pupal Hemolymph of Diatraea grandiosella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)

Vitellogenin (Vg) concentration was determined in pupal hemolymph of female southwestern corn borer, Diatraea grandiosella (Dyar). Vitellogenin concentration increased significantly with pupal age. Vitellogenin level reached 7 mg/ml on day 7 after pupation. The vitellogenin was separable into 2 apoproteins on sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), with molecular weights of 145,000 for apoVg-I and 38,000 for apoVg-II. SDS-PAGE analysis revealed that vitellogenin polypetides in female pupal hemolymph appeared to be identical to those from eggs, but were absent in male and early female pupal hemolymph. A method to quantify vitellogenin by indirect ELISA is described. Results from this study and those of a previous study suggest that juvenile hormone does not have a role in vitellogenesis but does so in choriogenesis.
Evaluating the agility of adaptive command and control networks from a cyber complex adaptive systems perspective

Command and control (C2) networks are critical components of modern military systems, enabling information sharing and communications between systems. These systems operate in complex environments ...
Fragging: Why U.S. Soldiers Assaulted Their Officers in Vietnam . By George Lepre.

During the Vietnam War, an alarming number of enlisted men assaulted and killed their commanding officers. In the vast majority of these assaults the soldiers used fragmentation or “frag” grenades ...
Comparative replication of Autographa californica nuclear polyhedrosis virus in tissues of Heliothis spp. (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

Studies were conducted to determine the relative increase of nonoccluded virus in two hosts of the nuclear polyhedrosis virus (Ac M NPV) isolated from the alfalfa looper, Autographa californica (Speyer). One host, Heliothis virescens (F.), is highly susceptible, but the other, Heliothis zea (Boddie), is a poor host. Replication of the virus after per os infection was determined by removal and end-point titration of the following tissues: hemolymph, fat body, hypodermis, midgut, Malpighian tubules, and silk glands. We confirmed that replication of the virus in all tissues of H. zea was very low and often difficult to detect. H. virescens tissues, on the other hand, readily supported replication. These data provide information about the ability of Ac M NPV to replicate in the two species and also may provide another basis to discriminate differences in virulence of isolates, variants, and recombinants.
Robust scheme for inversion of seismic and production data for reservoir facies modeling

Summary This research aims at making optimal updates of geological models by jointly inverting flow and seismic data while honoring the geologic spatial continuity. Numerical models for reservoir characterization are increasing in complexity, due in part to the greater need to model the complex spatial heterogeneity and fluid flow in the subsurface. These models, once properly calibrated, can make better forecasts. This calibration process requires in essence the solving of an inverse problem. The inversion problem is formulated as mi nimizing the mismatch function between observations and the output of the numerical models. The optimal search is carried out by adjusting model parameters, typically one or more for each grid-point of the reservoir. The optimization problem is large-scale in nature, with a nonlinear and nonconvex objective function, that often involves time-expensive simulations. Additionally, this problem is generally ill-conditioned, because the number of degrees of freedom usually is larger than the number of observations. We present a robust and fairly efficient methodology to deal with these difficulties in the framework of oil reservoir characterization. The illconditioned character of the optimal search can be attenuated in two ways. By Principal Component Analysis (PCA) the search space can be projected to a subspace of much smaller dimension, while keeping consistency with prior spatial geological features already known for the reservoir. The number of optimal solutions can be reduced further by increasing the diversity of the data observed. We integrate two different types of data: time-lapse seismic (spatially distributed and of lower temporal periodicity) and production data (localized around wells and of high temporal periodicity). Production data provides an integrated response of the reservoir to fluid flow, while time-lapse seismic data yields a spatially distributed characterization of the changes in elastic velocities due to saturation and pressure variations. The reduction in the number of optimization variables by PCA allows the use of numerical derivatives of the cost function. Within a distributed computing framework these approximate derivatives can be calculated efficiently. We also consider derivative-free algorithms. We illustrate the methodology on a sector of the Stanford VI synthetic reservoir created for testing algorithms.