cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Novel CD4-Based Bispecific Chimeric Antigen Receptor Designed for Enhanced Anti-HIV Potency and Absence of HIV Entry Receptor Activity

ABSTRACT Adoptive transfer of CD8 T cells genetically engineered to express “chimeric antigen receptors” (CARs) represents a potential approach toward an HIV infection “functional cure” whereby durable virologic suppression is sustained after discontinuation of antiretroviral therapy. We describe a novel bispecific CAR in which a CD4 segment is linked to a single-chain variable fragment of the 17b human monoclonal antibody recognizing a highly conserved CD4-induced epitope on gp120 involved in coreceptor binding. We compared a standard CD4 CAR with CD4-17b CARs where the polypeptide linker between the CD4 and 17b moieties is sufficiently long (CD4-35-17b CAR) versus too short (CD4-10-17b) to permit simultaneous binding of the two moieties to a single gp120 subunit. When transduced into a peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) or T cells thereof, all three CD4-based CARs displayed specific functional activities against HIV-1 Env-expressing target cells, including stimulation of gamma interferon (IFN-γ) release, specific target cell killing, and suppression of HIV-1 pseudovirus production. In assays of spreading infection of PBMCs with genetically diverse HIV-1 primary isolates, the CD4-10-17b CAR displayed enhanced potency compared to the CD4 CAR whereas the CD4-35-17b CAR displayed diminished potency. Importantly, both CD4-17b CARs were devoid of a major undesired activity observed with the CD4 CAR, namely, rendering the transduced CD8 + T cells susceptible to HIV-1 infection. Likely mechanisms for the superior potency of the CD4-10-17b CAR over the CD4-35-17b CAR include the greater potential of the former to engage in the serial antigen binding required for efficient T cell activation and the ability of two CD4-10-17b molecules to simultaneously bind a single gp120 subunit. IMPORTANCE HIV research has been energized by prospects for a cure for HIV infection or, at least, for a “functional cure” whereby antiretroviral therapy can be discontinued without virus rebound. This report describes a novel CD4-based “chimeric antigen receptor” (CAR) which, when genetically engineered into T cells, gives them the capability to selectively respond to and kill HIV-infected cells. This CAR displays enhanced features compared to previously described CD4-based CARs, namely, increased potency and avoidance of the undesired rendering of the genetically modified CD8 T cells susceptible to HIV infection. When adoptively transferred back to the individual, the genetically modified T cells will hopefully provide durable killing of infected cells and sustained virus suppression without continued antiretroviral therapy, i.e., a functional cure.
Cognitive radio technologies: Envisioning the realization of network-centric warfare

Recent advancements in software defined radio (SDR) technologies have increased the likelihood that most radio infrastructures will transition away from legacy hardware architectures. SDR technologies offer simple flexibility combined with efficiencies in business models, making them the optimum solution for most radio requirements. As SDR proliferates, it is possible to envision cognitive radio technologies emerging from concept to application. Cognitive radio technologies provide an intelligent framework to allow the radio to manage its operational settings. Cognitive radios will be able to sense their environment and decide on the optimum performance parameters for initiation or maintenance of a communications link. Imagine a radio that can autonomously sense neighboring units and establish communications during combat; radios that automatically change frequency bands as necessary to facilitate interoperability; radios that can seamlessly join necessary battlefield networks; radios designed to enable Soldiers to prosecute their influence across any battlespace.
Factors associated with amplified HIV transmission behavior among American men who have sex with men engaged in care: implications for clinical providers.

The HIV epidemic continues unabated in the USA, with men who have sex with men (MSM) being most frequently infected. The purpose of this study is to understand the biological and behavioral risk factors associated with increased HIV transmission efficiency, which is HIV transmission risk behavior in the context of uncontrolled HIV replication or intercurrent sexually transmitted infections. Participants were 201 HIV-infected MSM who received their primary care at an HIV ambulatory care center in Boston. Logistic regression models were conducted to determine factors associated with engaging in behavior associated with potentially amplified transmission. In the final model, heavy alcohol use (AOR, 3.27; 95 % CI 1.37–7.79), as well as stimulant drug use (crystal meth, crack, or other cocaine; AOR, 3.00; CI 1.32–6.84), having at least a college degree (OR, 2.74; CI, 1.15–6.54), and decreased duration of HIV infection (OR, 0.91; CI, 0.85–0.97) were each uniquely associated with enhanced HIV transmission behavior. HIV primary care providers should routinely assess patients for potential HIV transmission behaviors, particularly those who are younger and more recently diagnosed with HIV, who drink alcohol heavily, and who use any nonprescription drugs, particularly stimulants, in order to decrease the spread of HIV.
Comparison of the Epstein-barr Virus (ebv) Antibodies Against Viral Capsid Antigen (vca) and Early Antigen (ea), in 2 Populations of Hospital Children From 0 To 15 Years Old Differing With Regard To Socioeconomic-status

We have studied the presence of antibody against EBV in two populations: the first included 561 children mostly immigrants of low socio-economic status and the second included 2189 children representing a large sample of the belgian population. From 1 to 5 years of age, the percentage of positive sera against VCA rose rapidly within the first population (69% by the age of 2, 79% by the age of 3 and 78% by the age of 4). In the second group, the percentage of VCA positive sera rose more slowly (49% by the age of 2, 53% by the age of 3 and 49% by the age of 4). The differences between the two groups are statistically significant (α<0.05). From the age of 5, no more differnce was found. The percentage of EA positive sera in the 2 groups were respectively 31% and 21%. In spite of the fact that the difference between the 2 groups was not statistically significant, these high percentages of EA positive sera reflected a status of active immunization in the age groups of 1 to 5 years in the 2 populations. By contrast, in a group of school children of 10 to 15 years, we have found only 12% of EA positive sera. This difference is statistically significant (α<0.05). In the first population, 55 patients (9.75%) had anti EA titer ≥ 1/16, suggestion of a recent infection. Eleven of them (20%) had a clinical picture suggesting of actual EBV infection.
Synchronous Counters Constructed Entirely of J-K Flip-Flops

Synchronous counters composed entirely of J-K flip-flops can be systematically designed to fit given specifications. However, known design methods do not provide useful counters for many specifications of interest. We prove that some plausible counters are impossible to construct. For example, we prove that there is no self-starting, gateless, synchronous J-K flip-flop counter with N J-K flip-flops, N ≫ 2, and a period of 2N - 1. Known design methods do not trivially generate many desirable counters, but nonexistence theorems do not show that these counters are impossible. Searching among all possible configurations of J-K flip-flops is an attractive notion, but the number of possibilities is so large that it renders such search infeasible on current general-purpose digital computers. A special-purpose digital device was designed, implemented, and operated to perform an exhaustive search of all configurations of five or fewer J-K flip-flops. Some of the discovered counters are listed in the Appendix.
An effort towards identifying occupational culture among information systems professionals

Guzman, Stanton and associates have recently reported that information systems (IS) professionals do share a common culture that transcends organizational boundaries. We are embarking on a long-term research project to gain further understanding of the concept of IS occupational culture, and its effects. In the current study, we report on a partial replication of the Guzman et al study. The results of our analysis of interviews with 10 IS professionals and 11 management professionals confirm their findings on some issues and expand on their insights of the belief systems of IS professionals on other issues.
Low energy electron-excited nano-luminescence spectroscopy of GaN surfaces and interfaces

Abstract We have used low energy electron-excited nano-luminescence (LEEN) spectroscopy to obtain electronic band gap, confined state, and deep level trap information from GaN surfaces and buried interfaces on a nanometer scale. This local spectroscopy provides information available only indirectly by other electronic techniques. Using LEEN in combination with other surface science methods, we have probed the localized electronic states at GaN free surfaces, metal–GaN contacts, GaN/InGaN quantum wells, AlGaN/GaN pseudomorphic heterostructures, and GaN/sapphire template layers. Their properties are sensitive to the interface chemical composition, bonding, and atomic structure and in turn to the specifics of the epitaxial growth. The results highlight new methods for understanding and controlling electronic properties of GaN interfaces and their future applications.
Atmospheric Scale Interaction on Wintertime Intermountain West Low-Level Inversions

Persistent winter inversions result in poor air quality in the Intermountain West of the United States. Although the onset of an inversion is relatively easy to predict, the duration and the subsequent breakup of a persistent inversion event remains a forecasting challenge. For this reason and for this region, historic soundings were analyzed for Salt Lake City, Utah, with reanalysis and station data to investigate how persistent inversion events are modulated by synoptic and intraseasonal variabilities. The results point to a close linkage between persistent inversions and the dominant intraseasonal (30 day) mode that characterizes the winter circulation regime over the Pacific Northwest. Meteorological variables and pollution (e.g., particulate matter of #2.5-mm diameter, PM2.5) revealed coherent variations with this intraseasonal mode. The intraseasonal mode also modulates the characteristics of the synoptic (6 day) variability and further influences the duration of persistent inversions in the Intermountain West. The interaction between modes suggests that a complete forecast of persistent inversions is more involved and technically beyond numerical weather prediction models intended for the medium range (;10 day). Therefore, to predict persistent inversions, the results point to the adoption of standard medium-range forecasts with a longerterm climate diagnostic approach.
Infrared tunable diode laser spectroscopy of the Δv = 2 band of 7Li127I

Abstract The high-resolution infrared spectrum of the Δ v = 2 transitions of 7 LiI has been measured at temperatures near 1050 K. The observations include vibrational transitions ranging from 2-0 to 10-8. The data were fit to a set of Dunham potential constants complete through the a 6 term, from which the Dunham rovibrational constants were calculated. The band centers for the v = 1-0 and v = 2-0 transitions were determined to be 491.17398 ± 0.00026 cm −1 and 976.73042 ± 0.00038 cm −1 , respectively.
Psychology of Science/Theology of Science: Reaching Out or Narrowing?

. Formalizing a “psychology of science” today will constrain intellectual freedom in ways more likely stultifying than liberating. We should be more improvisational in seeking ideas from academic psychology to develop a more comprehensive purview. I suggest that a psychology of science should look at systematic theology and empirical theology. Liberal theologians have long experience trying to distill from religion those structural aspects that affirm openness in a search for truth. Science, as well as religion, has its myths and rituals, but theologians are more experienced than scientists at a large mythohistorical scale. There are distortions in the extreme degree to which psychological science has traditionally emphasized empiricism, positivism, hypothesis testing, and falsifiability. I argue for less critical reduction and more creative augmentation. This could include looking outside academia at cognitive competencies of people in trades. Exaggerated parsimony is an old story. This is illustrated by the opposition to David Hartley's 1749 theory of neural oscillations. There is an inexorable “margin of uncertainty” where scientific prediction and control can never outstrip the new uses to which human beings put ideas. Facts and values interact in this margin; theology has long made a home there, but scientists sometimes have been excessive in rejecting the “naturalistic fallacy.” There is also often a degree of disingenuousness in psychology's reluctance to take subjective phenomena seriously; here there may be lessons in how empirical theology has handled subjectivity, as well as in taking an honest look at the way much of the methodology of experimental psychology incorporates subjective assessments. Feist's book is a start, but these things need more thought before codifying a psychology of science.
Procedural proficiency in the placement of a word catheter: a resident training model

Study objectives: Residency involves on-the-job training and may present a risk when the least-experienced personnel perform critical procedures requiring a degree of surgical skill and dexterity. We develop a training tool for the evaluation and treatment of a Bartholin's cyst or abscess. We assess resident procedural proficiency in the placement of a Word catheter. Methods: This was a prospective before-and-after model. Postmortem porcine tissue was fashioned to simulate the female perineum with Bartholin cyst or abscess. A Foley catheter placed at the vestibule was inflated with Maalox to simulate a Bartholin cyst or abscess. Residents completed a survey to validate the model's clinical fidelity. With an array of equipment used in treatment, including a Word catheter, residents were asked to treat this model as they would a patient. Each resident was individually and critically evaluated and scored using a standardized critical points sheet for procedural competence before and after viewing an instructional video on the placement of a Word catheter. Results: Equal numbers of obstetrics and gynecology (OBGYN) and emergency medicine residents participated (N=34). Sixty-eight percent stated that the model resembled female genitalia. Sixty-one percent correctly diagnosed a Bartholin cyst or abscess. Emergency medicine residents' responses were comparable to those of the OBGYN residents. Mean pretraining score was 5.5±1.46 (range 3 to 9). Mean posttraining score was 8.2±1.20 (range 4 to 9 points). There was a 58% increase in procedural proficiency ( P Conclusion: A model female perineum fashioned from porcine tissue can be used to instruct residents in the recognition of a Bartholin cyst or abscess. Residents' procedural proficiency in the placement of a Word catheter may be improved through the use of tissue model perineum and instructional video.
Radiation‐Induced Creep of UO2

In-reactor creep tests were performed on stoichiometric UO2 helices enriched with 1.82%235U at fission rates of 2×1012 to 1.5×1013 fissions/cm3-s and outer-fiber shear stresses of 2890 and 2090 psi. Depending on the test procedure, the initial creep transient either decelerated continuously or was of the sigmoidal type; this difference is rationalized in terms of the radiation-produced substructure. For constant substructure, however, strain rate was linearly proportional to fission rate. Strain recovery was also observed when the specimens were unloaded and then irradiated. Postirradiation creep tests conducted at zero fission rate showed that fission events are required for either creep or strain recovery to occur. Incremental-temperature-change experiments and normalized strain-rate-vs-temperature plots verified that the deformation was athermal at T≤200°C. Postirradiation examination showed that 0.01% strain was recovered after a specimen was fractured and irradiated, but no measurable swelling, changes in density, grain size, or stoichiometry had occurred. No evidence of microfracture was observed on ceramographic sections. A model for radiation-induced creep is proposed in which Frank loops and dislocations absorb interstitials produced locally by the fission spike and move with the aid of the localized thermal energy of the spike.
A “Chimeric” C57L-Derived Ly49 Inhibitory Receptor Resembling the Ly49D Activation Receptor

Abstract Ly49D is a natural killer (NK) cell activation receptor that is responsible for differential mouse inbred strain-determined lysis of Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. Whereas C57BL/6 NK cells kill CHO, BALB/c-derived NK cells cannot kill because they lack expression of Ly49D. Furthermore, the expression of Ly49D, as detected by monoclonal antibody 4E4, correlates well with CHO lysis by NK cells from different inbred strains. However, one discordant mouse strain was identified; C57L NK cells express the mAb 4E4 epitope but fail to lyse CHO cells. Herein we describe a Ly49 molecule isolated from C57L mice that is recognized by mAb 4E4 (anti-Ly49D). Interestingly, this molecule shares extensive similarity to Ly49DB6 in its extracellular domain, but its cytoplasmic and transmembrane domains are identical to the inhibitory receptor Ly49AB6, including a cytoplasmic ITIM. This molecule bears substantial overall homology to the previously cloned Ly49O molecule from 129 mice the serologic reactivity and function of which were undefined. Cytotoxicity experiments revealed that 4E4+ LAK cells from C57L mice failed to lyse CHO cells and inhibited NK cell function in redirected inhibition assays. MHC class I tetramer staining revealed that the Ly49OC57L-bound H-2Dd and lysis by 4E4+ C57L LAK cells is inhibited by target H-2Dd. The structural basis for ligand binding was also examined in the context of the recent crystallization of a Ly49A–H-2Dd complex. Therefore, this apparently “chimeric” Ly49 molecule serologically resembles an NK cell activation receptor but functions as an inhibitory receptor.
Formation and anomalous properties of fractals

The basic mathematical concept of fractals is explained. A limited set of examples of fractals in nature, drawn mainly from condensed matter physics, is given. Current understanding of how fractals are formed in nature, as learned through computer simulation, is examined. Diffusion is used as an example to illustrate some of the anomalous physical properties of fractal systems. >
120 REAL-TIME SPECTRUM ANALYSIS OF BRACHIAL DOPPLER SIGNALS IN NEONATES WITH PATENT DUCTUS ARTERIOSUS (PDA)

We previously reported a correlation between brachial artery pulsatility index (continuous wave velocitometry) and left atrial enlargement (echocardiographic LA:Ao ratio) in neonates with PDA. To further define the limitations of neonatal Doppler ultrasound for PDA evaluation, we compared the pulsatility index (PI) obtained by continuous wave (CW) velocitometry with the index obtained from spectral analysis (SA) of the audio Doppler signal in ten patients with suspected PDA. Twenty-one brachial examinations were obtained. Linear regression of the PI values obtained by CW and SA revealed a highly linear correlation (r=0.89, p<0.001) but the regression line was not the line of identity. Additionally, the standard deviation of the residuals is greater than that expected for identical measurements. PI values by both methods resolved into two distinct groups, representing normal arterial flow and reverse flow secondary to left-to-right shunt. Although CW measurements were lower than SA measurements, there was no difference in sensitivity for identifying infants with significant PDA. We conclude that CW pulsatility index is a satisfactory predictor of PI obtained by the more precise SA technique. Lower CW values may be related to inherent limitations of the zero crossing detector used to produce the CW signal.
The transition from complex crater to peak-ring basin on Mercury: New observations from MESSENGER flyby data and constraints on basin formation models

Abstract The study of peak-ring basins and other impact crater morphologies transitional between complex craters and multi-ring basins is important to our understanding of the mechanisms for basin formation on the terrestrial planets. Mercury has the largest population, and the largest population per area, of peak-ring basins and protobasins in the inner solar system and thus provides important data for examining questions surrounding peak-ring basin formation. New flyby images from the MErcury Surface, Space ENvironment, GEochemistry, and Ranging (MESSENGER) spacecraft have more than doubled the area of Mercury viewed at close range, providing nearly complete global coverage of the planet's surface when combined with flyby data from Mariner 10. We use this new near-global dataset to compile a catalog of peak-ring basins and protobasins on Mercury, including measurements of the diameters of the basin rim crest, interior ring, and central peak (if present). Our catalog increases the population of peak-ring basins by ∼150% and protobasins by ∼100% over previous catalogs, including 44 newly identified peak-ring basins (total=74) and 17 newly identified protobasins (total=32). A newly defined transitional basin type, the ringed peak-cluster basin (total=9), is also described. The new basin catalog confirms that Mercury has the largest population of peak-ring basins of the terrestrial planets and also places the onset rim-crest diameter for peak-ring basins at 126 − 26 + 33 km , which is intermediate between the onset diameter for peak-ring basins on the Moon and those for the other terrestrial planets. The ratios of ring diameter to rim-crest diameter further emphasize that protobasins and peak-ring basins are parts of a continuum of basin morphologies relating to their processes of formation, in contrast to previous views that these forms are distinct. Comparisons of the predictions of peak-ring basin-formation models with the characteristics of the basin catalog for Mercury suggest that formation and modification of an interior melt cavity and nonlinear scaling of impact melt volume with crater diameter provide important controls on the development of peak rings. The relationship between impact-melt production and peak-ring formation is strengthened further by agreement between power laws fit to ratios of ring diameter to rim-crest diameter for peak-ring basins and protobasins and the power-law relation between the dimension of a melt cavity and the crater diameter. More detailed examination of Mercury's peak-ring basins awaits the planned insertion of the MESSENGER spacecraft into orbit about Mercury in 2011.
Radio Frequency Superconducting Studies at Argonne National Laboratory

We have conducted a number of tests on superconducting lead-plated cavities and superconducting lead-plated, iris-loaded deflecting structures. Our best result for the cavity has been a Q0 of 7.4 × 109 for the TE011 resonant mode at 2.856 GHz. For the iris-loaded structure we have achieved a Q0 of 2.2 × 108 at 1.8°K for the deflecting 27?/3 mode and an equivalent deflecting field of 500 kV/m.
On the complexity of a piecewise linear algorithm for approximating roots of complex polynomials

LetS be a triangulation of ℂ andf(z) = zd +ad−1zd−1+⋯+a0, a complex polynomial. LetF be the piecewise linear approximation off determined byS. For certainS, we establish an upper bound on the complexity of an algorithm which finds zeros ofF. This bound is a polynomial in terms ofn, max{∥ai∥}i, and measures of the sizes of simplices inS.
Drosophila: a life in the laboratory.

Histoire de l'introduction et de la domestication des drosophiles dans les laboratoires de recherche biologique au debut du 20eme siecle. Analyse de leurs caracteristiques et de la diversite d'experimentation dont ils font l'objet
Structural constraints in non-crystalline semiconductors

Abstract The needs and opportunities for studying the structural and compositional heterogeneities in noncrystalline semiconductors are discussed, as well as the as yet tenuous connection of these heterogeneities with several anomalous electronic transport properties. A study of the metastable photostructural changes in hydrogenated and deuterated chalcogenide glasses by means of neutron scattering is suggested.
The aorta wall of patients presenting to the emergency department with acute myocardial infarction by cardiac magnetic resonance

Abstract Background Inflammation has been shown to be a major component in the pathophysiology of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). In patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction (AMI), a critical component of the ACS spectrum, multiple coronary arteries are involved during this inflammatory process. In addition to the coronary vasculature, the inflammatory cascade has also been shown to affect the carotid arteries and possibly the aorta. Purpose To assess the involvement of the aorta during AMI by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). Methods We prospectively evaluated the aortic wall by CMR in 123 patients. 78 patients were enrolled from the emergency department (ED), who presented with chest pain and were classified as either: (1) AMI: elevated troponin levels and typical chest pain or (2) non-cardiac chest pain (CP): negative troponins and a normal stress test or normal cardiac catheterization. We compared these 2 groups to a group of 45 asymptomatic diabetic patients. The descending thoracic aortic wall area (AWA) and maximal aortic wall thickness (AWT) were measured using a double inversion recovery T-2 weighted, ECG-gated, spin echo sequence by CMR. Results Patients with AMI were older, more likely to smoke, had a higher incidence of claudication, and had higher CRP levels. The AWA and maximal AWT were greater in patients who presented to the ED with ACS (2.11 ± 0.17 mm 2 , and 3.17 ± 0.19 mm, respectively) than both patients presenting with non-cardiac CP (1.52 ± 0.58 mm 2 , p p 2 , p p Conclusion Patients with AMI have a significantly greater maximal aortic wall thickness and area compared to patients with non-cardiac CP. Longitudinal studies are needed to assess whether this increase is due to inflammation or a higher atherosclerotic burden.
Pictorial Debates: The Tatar Satirical Journal Yalt-Yolt and Muslim Modernity Discourses, 1906-1917

AbstractThe Great Reform era in Russia, as well as the modernist movements in the Ottoman Empire and other Muslim lands represent the background against which the Muslims of the Russian Empire engaged in the scrutiny of the reasons behind the backwardness of their societies and began advocating the compatibility of Islam with modernity. After 1906, the Muslim press became the most important instrument in the creation of the public sphere where issues of tradition and modernity were debated. This essay focuses on the Tatar satirical journal Yalt-Yolt to explore its contribution to the critique of the old Muslim mentalite, as well as its role as an instrument of modernity.
Spectral Sensitivity, Luminous Sensitivity, and Temporal Resolution of the Visual Systems in Three Sympatric Temperate Coastal Shark Species

We used electroretinography (ERG) to determine spectral and luminous sensitivities, and the temporal resolution (flicker fusion frequency, FFF) in three sympatric (but phylogenetically distant) coastal shark species: Carcharhinus plumbeus (sandbar shark), Mustelus canis (smooth dogfish), and Squalus acanthias (spiny dogfish). Spectral sensitivities were similar (range ~400–600 nm, peak sensitivity ~470 nm), with a high likelihood of rod/cone dichromacy enhancing contrast discrimination. Spiny dogfish were significantly less light sensitive than the other species, whereas their FFF was ~19 Hz at maximum intensities; a value equal to that of sandbar shark and significantly above that of smooth dogfish (~9–12 Hz). This occurred even though experiments on spiny dogfish were conducted at 12 versus 25 °C and 20 °C for experiments on sandbar shark and smooth dogfish, respectively. Although spiny dogfish have a rod-dominated retina (rod:cone ratio 50:1), their visual system appears to have evolved for a relatively high temporal resolution (i.e., high FFF) through a short integration time, with the requisite concomitant reduction in luminous sensitivity. Our results suggest adaptive plasticity in the temporal resolution of elasmobranch visual systems which reflects the importance of the ability to track moving objects such as mates, predators, or prey.
Evaluation of energy efficiency standards for residential clothes dryers in the USA

This article describes the analysis of monetary and energy savings attributable to various energy efficiency levels considered as potential US federal standards for residential clothes dryers. The analysis examined benefits to both consumers and the nation as a whole. Benefits to consumers were evaluated based on the life-cycle cost of affected appliances and the payback period associated with increased first costs. Benefits to the nation incorporate both energy and financial savings associated with each potential efficiency standard. The analysis incorporated the most current information on field use of clothes dryers, which shows that dryer usage and the moisture in clothes are less than previously thought. The analysis found that high-efficiency heat pump clothes dryers would be cost-effective for nearly one fifth of US households. However, for both electric standard and gas clothes dryers, standards that improve efficiency by 5 % appear to be the highest levels that have a positive net present value of consumer benefit.
Serial Recall and Position Cue in the Verbal Maze

Sammary.-2 verbal mazes differing in number of alternatives per choice were employed in Exp. I. The number of alternatives significantly affected acquisition but not retention. In Exp. 11, 3 groups of Ss learned a 4-alternative, 8-choice maze. Retention was tested under conditions of recognition, serial recall, or cued serial recall. Results indicated that cues including the position of the correct alternative did not provide an advantage over serial recall. Some methodological advantages of the verbal maze such as that of manipulating the stimulus phase while holding the response task constant, were mentioned. The verbal maze was devised by Peterson (1918), who described it as a memory-reason test. The verbal maze task consists of serial sets of alternatives, a way in which the correct alternatives may be discovered, and a number of practice trials in which the correct response may be fixated. In addition to studies of rational learning (Garrison, 1928), such mazes were viewed as suitable transition tasks to employ in the comparison of verbal and motor learning (McGeoch & Melton, 1928). Difficulty was often a parameter in the latter setting. Peterson (1918) said, ". . . the difficulty of the problem can be increased or decreased to any desired degree, without interfering with the general principle of the experiment." One way of increasing difficulty was by increasing the length of the maze. Difficulty may also be increased by increasing the number of alternatives at a choice point. Acquisition and serial position effects were studied in such mazes by Brogden and Schmidt ( 1954). In the first of the present experiments, serial recall as well as acquisition was measured as a function of number of alternatives per choice point. EXPERIMENT I Method The data were collected in two introductory psychology classes. In one class, 33 Ss were present for both learning and memory tests. In the other class, 36 Ss were present for both sessions. Three Ss were randomly discarded from the larger class. Two mazes were composed of nonsense syllables of low association value (Stevens, 195 1). For the easy maze, a pair of alternatives was present at each of the 8 choice points. For the difficult maze, 4 alternatives were present at each of the 8 choice points. For each maze the correct alternative occurred equally often in each of the possible positions. The syllables designated as correct responses were identical in the two mazes.
Insulin Receptor Knock-Out Mice

Targeted mutagenesis of the insulin receptor gene in mice has yielded unexpected results. This article reviews recent findings and analyzes this animal model can further our understanding of the mechanism of insulin action and its impairment in non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus is analyzed. (Trends Endocrinol Metab 1997;8:101-104). Published 1997 by Elsevier Science Inc.
Genetics of essential tremor.

Essential tremor (ET), the cause of which remains poorly understood, is one of the most common neurological disorders. While environmental agents have been proposed to play a role, genetic factors are believed to contribute to its onset. Thus far, three gene loci ( ETM1 on 3q13, ETM2 on 2p24.1 and a locus on 6p23) have been identified in patients and families with the disorder. In addition, a Ser9Gly variant in the dopamine D3 receptor gene on 3q13 has been suggested to be a risk factor. Moreover, genetically deficient animal models express a phenotype that overlaps with some clinical characteristics of the human form of the illness. Further analyses of these genetic abnormalities may lead to the identification of causative mutations and a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms in this common movement disorder.
Pegylated interferon and ribavirin treatment in patients with hepatitis C virus associated vasculitis

Pegylated interferon and ribavirin treatment in patients with hepatitis C virus associated vasculitis
On the orthographic basis of phonemic segments in linguistic competence and performance

Abstract Research demonstrating an absence in non-literates of the ability to isolate and manipulate phone-level constituents of speech are reviewed and summarized. This work clearly indicates that phonemic segmentation is not pan of the linguistic performance of speakers who do not read and write. The question of the existence of the phoneme as a grammatical construct (i.e. as a component of linguistic competence) for all speakers (including non-literates) of a language is then considered in light of other possible arguments and evidence. Each of these is, in turn, rejected and the conclusion is reached that the source of phonemic competence is literacy.
Specific cytoplasmic alpha-fetoprotein binding protein in MCF-7 human breast cancer cells and primary breast cancer tissue

Direct evidence was obtained for the existence of a specific high affinity alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)-binding protein in the cytosol of both MCF-7 human breast cancer cultured cells and primary breast cancer tissue from postmenopausal women using a nitrocellulose blotting assay. Scatchard analysis of the binding data for MCF-7 cells at 37° C revealed the presence of a single class of AFP binding sites with an apparent Kd of 4.5 × 10−8 M, and 75,000 binding sites per cell. All 9 primary breast cancer cytosols obtained from postmenopausal women also contained measureable levels of this specific AFP-binding protein. The number of AFP molecules specifically bound varied considerably between patients and ranged from 29–250 fmol per mg cytosol protein. Levels of AFP-binding protein levels and estrogen receptor measured in these same breast cancer cytosols showed a positive statistical correlation (r = 0.85). Taken together, the present evidence for the existence of a specific cytoplasmic AFP-binding protein in MCF-7 cells and previously reported evidence forde novo synthesis of free immunoreactive and bound nonimmunoreactive forms of cytoplasmic AFP by MCF-7 cells is consistent with the conclusion that most of the endogenous AFP synthesized in breast cancer cells is rapidly bound to specific cytoplasmic AFP-receptors, and that binding of AFP to these receptors masks its immunoreactivity. The association of AFP synthesis with rapidly growing fetal liver and adult regenerating liver, germ-cell tumors, immature uterus, and breast cancer cells suggests that a positive correlation exists between cytoplasmic AFP-receptor levels and the proliferative capacity of malignant breast tumors, and therefore such measurements may provide useful therapeutic and/or prognostic information in individual patients.
Athletics and executive functioning: How athletic participation and sport type correlate with cognitive performance

Abstract Objectives This study aims to further the knowledge regarding the documented link between physical exercise and cognitive function. Specifically, we examined the relationship between the type and level of sports in which college students participate and their executive functioning (EF). Design We utilized a 3-way quasi-experimental design, and grouped participants by athletic status (athlete or non-athlete), sport type (self-paced, externally paced, or non-athlete; see Singer, 2000), and level (high-skilled or recreational). Methods We evaluated EF by administering a battery of validated tests of decision making, problem solving, and inhibition. Results We found that athletes scored higher on some of the EF measures than non-athletes. Furthermore, we observed that scores varied by sport type according to which subset of EF each test measured. Self-paced athletes scored highest on an inhibition task, and externally paced athletes scored highest on a problem-solving task. Conclusions Our results suggest that athletes outperform non-athletes on tests of such EF domains as inhibition and problem solving, and that different types of athletic experience may correlate with higher levels of particular EF domains.
Hormonal regulation of cytoplasmic estrogen and progesterone receptors in the beagle uterus and oviduct

Abstract The hormonal regulation of uterine and oviductal cytoplasmic estrogen and progesterone receptors was studied in immature beagles that were untreated, treated with estradiol-17β, or treated sequentially with estradiol and progesterone. Estradiol treatment increased the concentration of estrogen receptors in both tissues. Progesterone receptors were not detectable in the reproductive tract of untreated animals, but increased dramatically under the influence of estradiol. Estrogen withdrawal following estrogen stimulation, concomitant estrogen plus progesterone administration, and estrogen withdrawal plus progesterone administration all caused significant reductions in both estrogen and progesterone receptors in uterine and oviductal cytosols when compared to estrogen treatment alone. Estrogen withdrawal resembled estrogen plus progesterone administration in reducing both estrogen and progesterone receptor levels, although estrogen withdrawal plus progesterone administration resulted in a further reduction in both receptor concentrations. The same positive and negative relationships between estrogen and progesterone receptor content were observed in uterine cytosols from cycling and ovariectomized adults. These data suggest that estrogen and progesterone regulate their respective receptors and that tissue sensitivity to both steroids may be controlled by mechanisms involving fluctuations in receptor concentration in the reproductive tract of the beagle.
Fetal heart rate parameters predictive of neonatal outcome in the presence of a prolonged deceleration.

OBJECTIVE: To correlate the presence of baseline variability and the duration of a prolonged deceleration/bradycardia in intrapartum fetal heart rate (FHR) tracings with the development of neonatal acidemia. METHODS: We identified 186 patients with term gestations who had continuous electronic fetal monitoring for at least 2 hours before delivery, with an identified bradycardia during that period. Each patient had umbilical artery cord analysis done and delivery within 30 minutes of that bradycardia. One investigator blinded to the cord gas outcome reviewed the last 2 hours of the tracing using the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development guidelines for FHR monitoring. We assessed the presence or absence of variability before the bradycardia and recovery or no recovery of the bradycardia and placed the patients into four groups. Group 1 (128 patients) with normal variability and recovery, group 2 (40 patients) with normal variability and no recovery, group 3 (nine patients) with decreased variability and recovery, and group 4 (nine patients) with decreased variability and no recovery. We compared the incidence of neonatal acidosis defined as a pH of less than 7.0 at birth among the four groups. The relationship between the various groups was assessed using analysis of variance and the χ2 test. In addition, a multiple logistic regression model was developed with the parameters of amplitude and recovery used to predict pH at birth. RESULTS: The presence of decreased variability and no recovery of the FHR of a bradycardia was associated with the lowest pH 6.83 ± 0.16 and a 78% incidence of significant acidosis. Decreased variability before FHR bradycardia was the FHR parameter significantly correlated with low pH. CONCLUSION: The most significant factor predicting the development of pathologic neonatal acidemia and indicating the need for urgent delivery in the presence of a bradycardia is decreased variability before the bradycardia.
Psychosocial stress and chronic ethanol ingestion in male rats: effects on elevated plus maze behavior and ultrasonic vocalizations.

Psychosocial stress is known to enhance anxiety levels in rodents. The present study evaluated the effect of long-term ingestion of ethanol (EtOH) on anxiety levels of male Long Evans rats housed either singly or in triads (three/cage). Based on measures of offensive and defensive behaviors, triad-housed rats were designated as being dominant, subdominant or subordinate. The effect of chronic ingestion of a 6% EtOH solution was assessed on behaviors in the elevated plus maze (EPM) test, and on air-puffs elicited 22 kHz ultrasonic vocalizations (USV). EtOH naive dominant rats showed less anxiogenic-like (open arms time) and displacement behavior (grooming), but more risk assessment behavior (stretch-attend postures) than their cage-mates or the single-housed rats. Intake of EtOH prior to the EPM test was lower in dominant and single-housed rats compared to subdominant and subordinate rats. Triad-housed rats, but not the single-housed rats, decreased their intake of EtOH after the EPM test. Overall, EtOH intake had an anxiolytic effect in all rats, but the effect was most prominent in single-housed rats. Furthermore, EtOH intake decreased air-puff induced USVs of triad-housed rats, but increased USVs of single-housed rats. These data indicate that housing condition and rank status influence the emotional state of male rats. Furthermore, the anxiolytic effect of voluntarily ingested EtOH was depended on these variables.
Experiencing and handling the diversity in data density and environmental locality in an indoor positioning service

Diversity in training data density and environment locality is intrinsic in the real-world deployment of indoor localization systems and has a major impact on the performance of existing localization approaches. In this paper, through micro-benchmarks, we find that fingerprint-based approaches are preferable in scenarios where a dense database is available; while model-based approaches are the method of choice in the case of sparse data. It should be noted, however, that practical situations are complex. A single deployment often features both sparse and dense sampled areas. Furthermore, the internal layout affects the propagation of radio signals and exhibits environmental impacts. A certain number of measurement samples may be sufficient for one part of the building, but entirely insufficient for another. Thus, finding the right indoor localization algorithm for a given large-scale deployment is challenging, if not impossible; there is no one-size-fits-all indoor localization approach. Realizing the fundamental fact that the quality of the location database capturing the actual radio map dictates localization accuracy, in this paper, we propose Modellet, an algorithmic approach that optimally approximates the actual radio map by unifying model-based and fingerprint-based approaches. Modellet represents the radio map using a fingerprint-cloud that incorporates both measured real fingerprints and virtual fingerprints, which are computed from models with a local support, based on the key concept of the supporting set. We evaluate Modellet with data collected from an office building as well as 13 large-scale deployment venues (shopping malls and airports), located across China, U.S., and Germany. Comparing Modellet with two representative baseline approaches, RADAR and EZPerfect, demonstrates that Modellet effectively adapts to different data densities and environmental conditions, substantially outperforming existing approaches.
CASE STUDY: BUS FLEET REPLACEMENT

Parallel replacement analysis is concerned with determining minimum cost replacement schedules for a group of assets that are economically interdependent and operate in parallel. That is, keep and replace decisions are required for each asset among a group of assets over a specified horizon. The assets are economically linked through economies of scale or budgeting constraints. One application of parallel replacement analysis is fleet replacement. We recently studied the operations, including fleet replacement policies, for a city transit bus operator in Europe. Key factors in their replacement decisions included the ability to choose from multiple manufacturers, purchase price, and government regulations. We explore these and other factors, by solving a heterogeneous replacement problem with fixed costs, budgeting constraints, and demand constraints. Through extensive sensitivity analysis we analyze the impact of various parameters on decisions, in terms of the choice of replacement assets, as well as th...
Biochemical interaction between chelonine wasps and their lepidopteran hosts: after a decade of research — the parasite is in control

Abstract A decade of research on the biochemical interaction between chelonine wasps and their lepidopteran hosts has yielded considerable data on the underlying basis for the developmental, immunological and reproductive effects that these parasites inflict upon their hosts. These egg-larval parasites induce their immunologically compromised host larvae to precociously initiate metamorphosis, followed by suppression of development of the precocious prepupa, in addition to castration of the host. The results from numerous laboratories have shown that the parasite egg that is normally injected by the adult female into the host along with venom, polydnavirus and calyx fluid proteins need not hatch or even be present for the host to exhibit each of these alterations. In addition to these aspects the parasite larva, when present, itself releases hormones and proteins into the hemolymph of the host. A review of the data amassed to date leads inexorably to the conclusion that it is the chelonine wasp that is the biochemically dominant partner. Thus, after 10 years of research, it still appears that in chelonine-lepidopteran parasite-host systems, the parasite is in control of specific points of the biochemistry and development of its host.
Enantiocontrolled synthesis of quaternary carbon centers. 3,3-disubstituted cyclopentanones. (+)-α-cuparenone

Abstract Asymmetric synthetic methodology is introduced for preparation of 3,3-disubstituted cyclopentanones, including (+)-α-cuparenone, of high enantiomeric purity.