cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Recovery of Real Estate Returns for Portfolio Allocation

Appraisal-based return indexes may not approximate the true real estate return distributions because of understated return volatility. Recovery of returns from reported, appraisal-based returns may be possible by evoking models to correct for appraisal-based smoothing of the second moment. Because recovery intentionally alters the volatility of the reported return distribution and the correlations among assets in the portfolio, the weights to real estate are likely affected. Our examination of the portfolio implications of altering the return distribution indicates that weights may be quite sensitive to the effects of recovery across a reasonable range of correlation regimes. A comparative analysis of several recovery models reveals that all models achieve the objective of inflating the volatility of reported returns. However, the models also change the mean of the return distribution, which either counteracts or magnifies the effect of the volatility change on allocations. These findings bring into question the applicability of recovery models in their current form.
Class 3 Aldehyde Dehydrogenase

Mammalian Class 3 aldehyde dehydrogenase includes both constitutively-expressed and xenobiotic-inducible forms encoded by at least 2 separate genes (Lindahl, 1992; Petersen and Lindahl, 1997). The rat microsomal form of Class 3 ALDH, encoded by the ALDH4 gene, is constitutively expressed. Depending on the tissue, the product of the rat ALDH3 gene is either constitutively expressed or inducible. In liver, no constitutive expression of ALDH3 is detectable (Lindahl, 1992). However, following exposure to either polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons such as 3-methylcholanthrene (3-MC) or dioxins such as 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), increases in both hepatic ALDH3 transcript and Class 3 ALDH enzyme activity occur (Lindahl, 1992). Constitutive expression of ALDH3 occurs in a variety of normal tissues, including the urinary bladder, lung, stomach and particularly the cornea of the eye (Lindahl, 1992). Class 3 ALDH activity is also elevated in both chemically-induced and spontaneous neoplasms from a variety of tissues, such as liver, colon, breast and leukemias as well as a number of tumor-derived cell lines (Lindahl, 1992).
Frontal eye field neurons orthodromically activated from the superior colliculus.

Sommer, Marc A. and Robert H. Wurtz. Frontal eye field neurons orthodromically activated from the superior colliculus. J. Neurophysiol. 80: 3331–3333, 1998. Anatomical studies have shown that the f...
Application of Immunohistochemistry to the Diagnosis of Malignant Mesothelioma

Abstract Context.—The diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma (MM) is rendered with the aid of immunohistochemistry to demonstrate the presence of “mesothelial,” “epithelial,” or “sarcomatous” differentiation. Antibody panels that have been proposed for the distinction between MM and other neoplasms usually include 2 or more epithelial markers used to exclude the diagnosis of a carcinoma, such as monoclonal and polyclonal carcinoembryonic antigen, Ber-EP4, B72.3, CD15, MOC-31, thyroid transcription factor 1, BG8, and others, and 2 or more mesothelial markers used to confirm the diagnosis of MM, such as cytokeratin 5/6, calretinin, HBME-1, thrombomodulin, WT-1, mesothelin, D2-40, and podoplanin. In general, most antibody panels provide excellent sensitivity and specificity for the differential diagnosis between MM epithelial variant and adenocarcinoma, particularly of lung origin. However, the accuracy of these markers is lower for the diagnosis of sarcomatous MM and for the differential diagnosis between MM a...
Mannequin Based Simulators

Manikin-based simulators represent the predominant form of technology used in healthcare simulation. This technology includes a spectrum from partial-task trainers to full-scale, high-fidelity manikins. Full-scale manikins have variability in their control mechanisms and in their autonomous features. Various commercially available platforms allow for significant variability in the delivery of simulations by an operator for a learner. Manikin-based simulators also have significant feature variability. Respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurologic signs and symptoms are available. In addition, pharmacologic and procedural capabilities are available in varying degrees. This chapter includes a summary of manikins across the age and cost spectrum and several tables which compare features and other specifics. Task trainers have been developed for airway management, invasive procedures, skills-based teaching and learning and other special situations, primarily surgical. There is ongoing innovation in task trainer development around the world. Future direction for manikin-based simulators will likely include continued specialization in age-related specifications and advanced functionality.
7 Rethinking Polity Formation: A Gendered Perspective on Formative Period Household Development in the Pacific Coast Region of Guatemala

Social complexity and polity formation involve volatile periods of political cycling with integration and decentralization occurring as elites vie for political power. Political economic interpretations, while valuable in understanding the social and political processes involved in polity formation, do not adequately trace changes in the social relations that comprise the formation of a polity. In this chapter, I examine three models (subsistence intensification, craft production, and exchange) that have been proposed to explain the political and economic development of the Pacific coast region of Guatemala during the Middle Formative period (ca. 900–600 b.c.e.) and the rise of the La Blanca polity. I contend that macroscale models obscure gendered interpretations of the past. I suggest that investigations of prehistoric gender patterns would benefit from a microscaled approach drawing attention to household activities and the diverse social and economic accommodations that must have been made by Middle Formative households. The La Blanca inhabitants may have responded to the changing political landscape by altering their daily rounds and by increasing coordination of household activities that affected all members of the household regardless of gender.
Electrical properties of tissues and cell suspensions: mechanisms and models

The electrical properties of tissues and cell suspensions are most unusual. They change with frequency in three distinct steps and their dielectric constants reach enormous values at low frequencies. The author concentrates on the "linear" properties observed with applied fields less than about 1 V/cm. The linear properties of interest include the dielectric constant /spl epsiv/ and conductivity /spl sigma/. Extensive measurements have been carried out over a broad frequency range extending from less than 1 Hz to many GHz. A number of mechanism have been identified which explain the observed data. These mechanisms reflect the various compartments of the biological material. These include membranes and their properties, biological macromolecules and fluid compartments inside and outside membranes. The authors summarize the mechanisms which contribute to the total frequency response. >
DEBLURRING AND SPARSE UNMIXING OF HYPERSPECTRAL IMAGES USING MULTIPLE POINT SPREAD FUNCTIONS

This paper is concerned with deblurring and spectral analysis of ground-based astronomical images of space objects. A numerical approach is provided for deblurring and sparse unmixing of ground-based hyperspectral images (HSIs) of objects taken through atmospheric turbulence. Hyperspectral imaging systems capture a three-dimensional (3D) datacube (tensor) containing two-dimensional (2D) spatial information and one-dimensional (1D) spectral information at each spatial location. Pixel intensities vary with wavelength bands, providing a spectral trace of intensity values and generating a spatial map of spectral variation (spectral signatures of materials). The deblurring and spectral unmixing problem is quite challenging since the point spread function (PSF) depends on the imaging system as well as the seeing conditions and is wavelength varying. We show how to efficiently construct an optimal Kronecker product--based preconditioner, and provide numerical methods for estimating the multiple PSFs using spectr...
Fitting it all in: how mothers' employment shapes their school engagement

Although incompatibilities between work and home life are well studied, less is known about the implications of employment for another key life role, particularly for working mothers: being a ‘school-engaged parent’. Using data from in-depth interviews with 17 employed mothers in a mid-size Midwestern city, recruited from a diverse sample of 95 survey-taking parents, we examined the mechanics of how mothers' employment conditions shaped their involvement in their children's schools. We observed patterns between occupational status – professional and low-wage jobs, particularly – and when and how mothers engaged. Some with job schedule flexibility and paid time off were more often and easily able to participate in school activities, while others faced barriers to or negative consequences from using such supports. Several mothers lacked any time-related accommodations from their jobs. Yet all mothers pushed themselves to be involved, even as they had to make hard calculations about their work lives to do so...
Kinetics of Growth and Inhibition of Listeria monocytogenes in the Presence of Antioxidant Food Additives

Listeria monocytogenes strain Scott A in Tryptose Broth was treated with 100-300 ppm butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), 300-700 ppm butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) and 10-30 ppm tertiary butylhydroquinone (TBHQ). Resulting growth curves were fitted using the logistic model, and growth parameters [lag period (LP), generation time (GT), and maximum growth (MG)] were calculated. BHA and BHT inhibited Listeria monocytogenes by increasing LP and GT and decreasing MG. Extent of inhibition was concentration-dependent for cultures with BHA, but not with BHT. TBHQ at 10-30 ppm increased LP but did not affect other parameters. LP increased exponentially with increased BHA or TBHQ in Listeria culture. Concentrations of additive required to increase LP by one order of magnitude were 240 ppm for BHA and 26 ppm for TBHQ.
The Regulation of Human P450c17 Activity: Relationship to Premature Adrenarche, Insulin Resistance and the Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

The polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance, but the connection between these two features has been unclear. Androgen synthesis is regulated in part by the ratio of the 17α-hydroxylase and 17,20 lyase activities of P450c17. Three separate lines of evidence show that the ratio of lyase to hydroxylase activity is regulated by electron flow from P450 oxidoreductase. Lyase activity and androgen synthesis are particularly dependent on the serine phosphorylation of P450c17. Serine phosphorylation of the insulin receptor β chain causes insulin resistance, and some PCOS women have hyperphosphorylated receptors. We hypothesize that an overactive serine/threonine kinase hyperphosphorylates both the insulin receptor and P450c17 in PCOS, accounting for the characteristic insulin resistance and hyperandrogenism of this disease.
Efficient rank aggregation using partial data

The need to rank items based on user input arises in many practical applications such as elections, group decision making and recommendation systems. The primary challenge in such scenarios is to decide on a global ranking based on partial preferences provided by users. The standard approach to address this challenge is to ask users to provide explicit numerical ratings (cardinal information) of a subset of the items. The main appeal of such an approach is the ease of aggregation. However, the rating scale as well as the individual ratings are often arbitrary and may not be consistent from one user to another. A more natural alternative to numerical ratings requires users to compare pairs of items (ordinal information). On the one hand, such comparisons provide an "absolute" indicator of the user's preference. On the other hand, it is often hard to combine or aggregate these comparisons to obtain a consistent global ranking.In this work, we provide a tractable framework for utilizing comparison data as well as first-order marginal information (see Section 2) for the purpose of ranking. We treat the available information as partial samples from an unknown distribution over permutations. We then reduce ranking problems of interest to performing inference on this distribution. Specifically, we consider the problems of (a) finding an aggregate ranking of n items, (b) learning the mode of the distribution, and (c) identifying the top k items. For many of these problems, we provide efficient algorithms to infer the ranking directly from the data without the need to estimate the underlying distribution. In other cases, we use the Principle of Maximum Entropy to devise a concise parameterization of a distribution consistent with observations using only O(n2) parameters, where n is the number of items in question. We propose a distributed, iterative algorithm for estimating the parameters of the distribution. We establish the correctness of the algorithm and identify its rate of convergence explicitly.
Reversal of the detrimental effects of simulated microgravity on human osteoblasts by modified low intensity pulsed ultrasound.

Microgravity (MG) is known to induce bone loss in astronauts during long-duration space mission because of a lack of sufficient mechanical stimulation under MG. It has been demonstrated that mechanical signals are essential for maintaining cell viability and motility, and they possibly serve as a countermeasure to the catabolic effects of MG. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of high-frequency acoustic wave signals on osteoblasts in a simulated microgravity (SMG) environment (created using 1-D clinostat bioreactor) using a modified low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (mLIPUS). Specifically, we evaluated the hypothesis that osteoblasts (human fetal osteoblastic cell line) exposure to mLIPUS for 20 min/d at 30 mW/cm2 will significantly reduce the detrimental effects of SMG. Effects of SMG with mLIPUS were analyzed using the MTS proliferation assay for proliferation, phalloidin for F-actin staining, Sirius red stain for collagen, and Alizarin red for mineralization. Our data showed that osteoblast exposure to SMG results in significant decreases in proliferation (∼ −38% and ∼ −44% on days 4 and 6, respectively; p < 0.01), collagen content (∼ −22%; p < 0.05) and mineralization (∼ −37%; p < 0.05) and actin stress fibers. In contrast, mLIPUS stimulation in SMG condition significantly increases the rate of proliferation (∼24% by day 6; p < 0.05), collagen content (∼52%; p < 0.05) and matrix mineralization (∼25%; p < 0.001) along with restoring formation of actin stress fibers in the SMG-exposed osteoblasts. These data suggest that the acoustic wave can potentially be used as a countermeasure for disuse osteopenia.
Big City Mayors and School Governance Reform: The Case of School District Takeover

As the Peabody Journal of Education celebrates its 80th anniversary, educational policymakers and practitioners are keenly aware of the many changes in the way public schools have been governed in large urban districts over the last 80 years. Among the most significant changes is the role of the mayor. Although the 1920s saw partisan politics in retreat because of the reform efforts of the Progressive movement, mayors (and governors) have felt the political pressure to mediate intense interest-group competition since the 1960s. By the 1990s, mayors in several big cities, with gubernatorial support, decided to lead the public school system. Clearly, the relationship between the mayors and the schools has been reconfigured in the last 80 years. This article aims to analyze mayoral takeover as a reform strategy.
1461 DETERMINANTS OF ORAL BREATHING IN PREMATURE INFANTS

We have previously demonstrated that 40% of term neonates may exhibit effective oral ventilation during nasal occlusion. To evaluate the influence of postnatal maturation on oral breathing (OB), we measured nasal and oral ventilation in response to 15 sec nasal occlusions(10/study) in 11 sleeping preterm infants (gest.age 29±1wk, BW 1.3±0.2kg). When OB occurred, nasal occlusion was maintained for up to 1 min. Studies were performed at 31-32, 33-34 and 35-36 wk post-conceptual age. Nasal and oral airflow(via 2 resistance matched pneumotachometers), TcPO2 and esophageal pressure(via fluid filled catheter) were recorded. Frequency of OB in response to nasal occlusion increased with advancing postconceptual age from 8±8% at 31-32wk to 26±18 at 33-34wk (n=9,p<0.04) and 29±29% at 35-36wk (n=7). Unlike term infants, OB in preterm infants is characterized by intermittent airway obstruction and respiratory pauses, resulting in a fall in minute ventilation from 447±95 to 229±88cc/min/kg (p<0.01) and TcPO2 from 64±8 to 56±6 (p<0.01). Inspir.(RI) and expir.(RE) total airway resistances were calculated from the ratio of flow resistive pressure to flow at half maximal volume. On switching from nasal to oral breathing, RI increased from 41±30 to 234±228 (p<0.004) and RE increased from 62±16 to 145±43 cmH2O·L−1·sec (p<0.004). We conclude that oral breathing becomes more frequent and effective with increasing postnatal maturation. High oral airway resistance appears to be the critical factor which limits oral ventilation in preterm infants. Supp. by NHL 25830 and 31173.
173 PREDICTORS OF OUTCOME IN ACUTE MENINGOCOCCAL INFECTIONS

The risk of serious complications and mortality due to acute meningococcal infection has stimulated interest in identifying predictors of outcome. In order to identify abnormalities predictive of complications, organ system failure (OSF), and mortality, we retrospectively reviewed patients admitted with acute meningococcal infection during a recent 5 yr period. OSF was defined according to the following: cardiovascular-hypotension or inotropic infusion; respiratory-mechanical ventilation or PaO2/FiO2 2mg/dl or BUN >100mg/dl. Complications included purpura fulminans, DIC, seizures, pulmonary edema, myocardiopathy, hypotension, cerebral edema, SIADH, cranial nerve palsy, and subdural effusion. The presence of ≥2 of the following risk factors was associated with increased morbidity and mortality: 1. poor peripheral perfusion; 2. purpura; 3. acidosis (HCO3 <15); 4. co-agulopathy (prolonged PT or PIT); 5. WBC 10,000 cells/mm3. The occurrence of ≥ 2 risk factors upon admission was a sensitive indicator of increased risk for complications, OSF and mortality.
Association of the p75 Neurotrophin Receptor with TRAF6

In addition to the Trk tyrosine kinase receptors, neurotrophins also bind to a second receptor, p75, a member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily. Several signaling pathways have been implicated for p75 in the absence of Trk receptors, including induction of NF-kappaB and c-Jun kinase activities and increased production of ceramide. However, to date, the mechanisms by which the p75 receptor initiates intracellular signal transduction have not been defined. Here we report a specific interaction between p75 and TRAF6 (tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor-6) after transient transfection in HEK293T cells. The interaction was ligand-dependent and maximal at 100 ng/ml of nerve growth factor (NGF). Other neurotrophins also promoted the association of TRAF6 with p75 but to a lesser extent. The binding of TRAF6 was localized to the juxtamembrane region of p75 by co-immunoprecipitation and Western blotting. To assess the functional significance of this interaction, we have tested responses in cultured Schwann cells that express p75 and TRAF6. An NGF-mediated increase in the nuclear localization of the p65 subunit of NF-kappaB could be blocked by the introduction of a dominant negative form of TRAF6 in Schwann cells. These results indicate that TRAF6 can potentially function as a signal transducer for NGF actions through the p75 receptor.
Sag Calculations for Transmission Lines

A set of sag formulas is presented, in the form of convergent series which give accurately the results of the hyperbolic catenary formulas. The series are useful for calculating almost any practical transmission line span, long or short. Trial and error methods are not used. First, the sag or deflection is calculated for a given maximum tension in the cable. Then, changes in temperature corresponding to changes in deflection and loading are computed. This procedure is followed whether the supports are at equal heights or at unequal heights. A formula is presented for the deflection from the line joining the supports, when the elevations are unequal. This is useful in sighting from tower to tower, as shown in Fig. 2. A few examples are worked out and some derivations of formulas are given. In the last appendix instructions are given with regard to allowing for the change in weight per ft. with change in length of cable.
Second-hand smoking and carboxyhemoglobin levels in children: A prospective observational study

Summary Aim: To establish baseline noninvasive carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) levels in children and determine the influence of exposure to environmental sources of carbon monoxide (CO), especially environmental tobacco smoke, on such levels. Background: Second-hand smoking may be a risk factor for adverse outcomes following anesthesia and surgery in children (1) and may potentially be preventable. Patients and Methods: Parents and their children between the ages of 1–12 were enrolled on the day of elective surgery. The preoperative COHb levels of the children were assessed noninvasively using a CO-Oximeter (Radical-7 Rainbow SET Pulse CO-Oximeter; Masimo, Irvine, CA, USA). The parents were asked to complete an environmental air-quality questionnaire. The COHb levels were tabulated and correlated with responses to the survey in aggregate analysis. Statistical analyses were performed using the nonparametric Mann–Whitney and Kruskal–Wallis tests. P < 0.05 was statistically significant. Results: Two hundred children with their parents were enrolled. Children exposed to parental smoking had higher COHb levels than the children of nonsmoking controls. Higher COHb values were seen in the youngest children, ages 1–2, exposed to parental cigarette smoke. However, these trends did not reach statistical significance, and confidence intervals were wide. Conclusions: This study revealed interesting trends of COHb levels in children presenting for anesthesia and surgery. However, the COHb levels measured in our patients were close to the error margin of the device used in our study. An expected improvement in measurement technology may allow screening children for potential pulmonary perioperative risk factors in the future.
A quantitative focus assay for titration of retroviruses that encode human granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF).

Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) is a haematopoietic growth factor that regulates proliferation, differentiation, and effector functions of monocyte-macrophages and granulocytic cells. Because of the ability of this cytokine to enhance immune functions of antigen-presenting cells, retroviruses encoding GM-CSF have been used to transduce GM-CSF into murine and human tumour cells as part of autologous tumour vaccine strategies. We have previously shown that NIH 3T3 cells engineered to express functional human GM-CSF receptors (hGMR-NIH 3T3), become fully transformed when these cells are incubated in the presence but not in the absence of human GM-CSF. In this study we have used these hGM-CSF conditional transformants to devise a sensitive focus assay to titrate retroviruses encoding hGM-CSF, using MFG-hGM-CSF/Psi-CRIP as our model virus. This helper-free amphotropic retrovirus, which has been frequently used to transduce hGM-CSF into tumour cells, was quite transforming in our indicator cell line, exhibiting virus titres well above 10(5)FFU/ml. The transformation-based assay described here allows rapid determination of the titre of hGM-CSF-viruses, and may serve as a model for development of quantitative assays for other cytokine-encoding viruses of clinical importance.
The Impact of a Foundations of Education Course on Attitudes: Results of a Longitudinal Study:

This study investigated attitude changes of university undergraduate students enrolled in a foundations of education course assigned two different types of reading materials, (1) materials of a controversial and very persuasive nature, and (2) a traditional foundations textbook. Attitudes toward 13 concepts were measured by an evaluative form of the sematic differential. Ss were tested on the first and last day of class and again three and one-half years later. Results indicated that, for 10 concepts, the experimental approach produced attitude changes in the Ss; such changes were maintained over time for nine concepts. Furthermore, for five of the 10 concepts, the experimental approach resulted in greater attitude changes than did the traditional approach.
Performance of Stochastic Global Optimization Methods in the Calculation of Phase Stability Analyses for Nonreactive and Reactive Mixtures

In this paper, we perform a comparative study of four stochastic optimization methods for calculating the phase stability of reactive and nonreactive mixtures. We have compared the algorithms: simulated annealing, very fast simulated annealing, a modified version of direct search simulated annealing, and stochastic differential equations. We test the numerical performance and reliability of these methods using several stability problems. From our results, the simulated annealing algorithm appears to be the most reliable method for minimization of the tangent plane distance function for both reactive and nonreactive mixtures.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder adults: Comorbidities and adaptive impairments

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is increasingly recognized as a legitimate adult diagnostic category. Yet the nature of and comorbidities and adaptive impairments associated with adult ADHD have received little scientific investigation. The present study, therefore, compared 172 adults diagnosed with ADHD with 30 adults referred to the same adult ADHD clinic who were not so diagnosed. The ADHD group showed a significantly greater prevalence of oppositional, conduct, and substance abuse disorders, and greater illegal substance use than control adults. Moreover, adults with ADHD displayed greater self-reported psychological maladjustment, more driving risks (speeding violations), and more frequent changes in employment. Significantly more ADHD adults had experienced a suspension of their driver license, had performed poorly, quit, or been fired from their job, and had a history of poorer educational performance and more frequent school disciplinary actions against them than adults without ADHD. Multiple marriages were more likely in the ADHD group as well. Contrary to previous studies, anxiety and mood disorders were not found to be more prevalent in the ADHD than in the control group. Results suggest that ADHD in adults is associated with relatively specific risks for disruptive behavior disorders, school and job performance problems, and driving risks.
Risk factors and complications in free TRAM flap breast reconstruction.

Methods: The authors retrospectively reviewed 500 free TRAM flaps performed between 1992 and 2003. This cohort was subdivided based on smoking history, obesity, preoperative chemotherapy, preoperative radiation therapy, peripheral vascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and hypertension, and compared surgical complication rates. Measured complications included fat necrosis, mastectomy flap necrosis, abdominal flap necrosis, partial TRAM flap loss, wound infection, hematoma, seroma, vessel thrombosis, and abdominal hernia. Χ 2 analysis and Fisher exact test were performed to determine differences between groups, and linear regression models were used to predict the risk factors of surgical complications. Results: Smokers were more likely to have a higher incidence of wound infection (P = 0.01), mastectomy flap necrosis (P = 0.015), abdominal flap necrosis (P = 0.033), and fat necrosis (P = 0.01). Obese patients were more likely to have higher rates of mastectomy flap necrosis (P = 0.01) and hematoma (P = 0.01). Patients with peripheral vascular disease were more likely to have a higher incidence of wound infection (P = 0.031), and patients with preoperative radiation therapy were more likely to have a higher incidence of seroma (P = 0.043). Logistic regression showed that smoking was found to be a risk factor for fat necrosis (P = 0.006), wound infection (P = 0.002), mastectomy flap necrosis (P = 0.039), and abdominal flap necrosis (P = 0.042). Obesity was a risk factor for mastectomy flap necrosis (P = 0.002). Peripheral vascular disease was a risk factor for wound infection (P = 0.032). Conclusion: Awareness of risk factors and associated complications will lead to modification and individualization of surgical techniques in an attempt to limit these complications and continually improve outcomes.
Lu‐Hf and Sm‐Nd evolution in lunar mare basalts

Existing cumulate remelting models for mare basalt genesis are evaluated in light of Lu-Hf, Rb-Sr, Sm-Nd data and overall REE characteristics in order to determine the simplest model that can account for these data. A data base for comparing Lu-Hf evolution in the lunar mantle as inferred from Lu-Hf analyses of oceanic basalts is presented along with a preliminary comparison of Lu-Hf and Sm-Nd evolution betwee mare basalts and terrestrial oceanic basalts. It is found that Lu/Hf characteristics of mare basalts cannot be explained in terms of modal melting of cumulate sources formed from a magma ocean with chondritic Lu/Hf. The data are consistent with a model in which the cumulate sources formed from a light REE + HF-enriched magma ocean. Nonmodal melting of ilmenite in the sources is also required. The Lu-Hf data suggest that even the high-Ti basalt sources contained no more than about 3 percent ilmenite.
O-acetylation affects the binding properties of the carboxyl groups on the Vi bacterial polysaccharide

Abstract The capsular polysaccharide of Salmonella typhi and Citrobacter freundii (Vi) is a linear homopolymer of (1 → 4)-linked 2-acetamido-2-deoxy-α- D -galactopyranosyluronic acid partially O -acetylated at the C-3 position. The physico-chemical properties of the carboxyl groups of the Vi polysaccharide, as a function of different degrees of O -acetylation, were studied by potentiometric titration, circular dichroism, and their reaction with the bulky nucleophile 2-nitro-phenylhydrazine (NPH). Potentiometric titrations with K + and Ca 2+ hydroxides showed that the difference in the free energy of binding between the two cations (Δ( G K Ca ) was inversely proportional to the degree of O -acetylation. Similar cationic effects were found when measuring circular dichroism. Moreover there was also an inverse relation between the degree of O -acetylation and the extent of binding of NPH to the carboxyl groups. These data all indicate that O -acetyl groups hinder the association of carboxyls with cations and nucleophilic reagents. This provides a possible explanation for the importance of the O -acetyl and the relative unimportance of the carboxyl groups in contributing to the immunologic properties of the Vi.
The Ups and Downs of Peer Review: Making Funding Choices for Science

Although peer review provides the primary mechamism for allocating research funds, very few people have undertaken any serious study of the issue. Most of the literature surrounding peer review comes from individuals who have experienced specific problems with the system. The one detail that does stand out is that though policy makers and researchers seem to view peer review as a specific process, no single form exists. In fact, almost agency and foundation has its own unique process. This presentation will explore the concept of peer review and highlight its strengths and weaknesses.
Interactions of the components of the general secretion pathway: role of Pseudomonas aeruginosa type IV pilin subunits in complex formation and extracellular protein secretion

The general secretion pathway (GSP), found in a wide range of bacteria, is responsible for extracellular targeting of a subset of proteins from the periplasm. In Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the GSP requires the participation of 12 proteins, of which XcpT, XcpU, XcpV, XcpW are homologues of PilA, the major subunit of type IV pili. The interaction between the pilin-like Xcp proteins was investigated using bifunctional crosslinking reagents. Cross-linking analysis of whole cells of wild-type P. aeruginosa, followed by immunoblot analysis, revealed a 34-kDa XcpT-containing complex. This complex was shown to consist of XcpT/PilA heterodimers. The role of PilA in the GSP was examined, using P. aeruginosa mutants in the pilA gene, or in rpoN, a gene regulating pilA expression. Each mutant showed a significant reduction in the efficiency of extracellular protein secretion, and this defect could be restored by expression of the cloned pilA gene in the mutant cells. The formation of the PilA/XcpT complex did not require XcpR or XcpQ, two other components of the secretion machinery, nor did it require the pilus biogenesis factors PilB and PIlC. The dimeric XcpT/PilA complex was also formed in a pilD mutant, which lacks the leader peptidase enzyme, demonstrating that the leader peptide at the N-terminus or PilA or XcpT did not have to be removed for the dimerization to occur. XcpW and XcpU can also be crosslinked to form dimeric complexes with PilA. When expression of XcpT is increased, its homodimers, as well as XcpT/XcpW heterodimers, can be detected. Finally, an oligohistidine-tagged XcpT was shown to form stoichiometric complexes with PilA, and with XcpT, U, V and W. These dimers were co-purified by nickel-affinity chromatography. The results of this study suggest that XcpT can form heterodimers with PilA, and Xcp U, V and W, which may be assembly intermediates of the secretion apparatus. Alternatively, these may represent dynamic intermediates that facilitate protein secretion by continuous association and dissociation. The requirement for PilA for efficient protein secretion argues for a critical role played by PilA in two related processes during P. aeruginosa infections: formation of an adhesive pilus organelle and secretion of exoenzymes.
(3R,3′R)-astaxanthin from the yeast Phaffia rhodozyma

Abstract Astaxanthin isolated from the yeast Phaffia rhodozyma has the 3 R ,3′ R -configuration, opposite to that of astaxanthin from other sources which have been so far investigated. This is the first example of a naturally occurring carotenoid biosynthesized in different optical forms. A possible explanation is advanced.
The Protein Kinase Cδ Catalytic Fragment Targets Mcl-1 for Degradation to Trigger Apoptosis

Proteolytic cleavage and subsequent activation of protein kinase C (PKC) δ is required for apoptosis induced by a variety of genotoxic agent, including UV radiation. In addition, overexpression of the constitutively active PKCδ catalytic fragment (PKCδ-cat) is sufficient to trigger Bax activation, cytochrome c release, and apoptosis. While PKCδ is a key apoptotic effector, the downstream target(s) responsible for the mitochondrial apoptotic cascade are not known. We found that expression of the active PKCδ-cat in HaCaT cells triggers a reduction in the anti-apoptotic protein Mcl-1, similar to UV radiation. The down-regulation of Mcl-1 induced by PKCδ-cat was not at the mRNA level but was due to decreased protein half-life. Overexpression of Mcl-1 protected HaCaT cells from both UV and PKCδ-cat-induced apoptosis and blocked the release of cytochrome c from the mitochondria, indicating that Mcl-1 down-regulation was required for apoptosis signaling. Indeed, down-regulation of Mcl-1 with siRNA slightly increased the basal apoptotic rate of HaCaT cells and dramatically sensitized them to UV or PKCδ-cat-induced apoptosis. HaCaT cells with down-regulated Mcl-1 had higher activated Bax protein, as measured by Bax cross-linking, indicating that Mcl-1 down-regulation is sufficient for Bax activation. Finally, recombinant PKCδ could phosphorylate Mcl-1 in vitro, identifying Mcl-1 as a direct target for PKCδ. Overall our results identify Mcl-1 as an important target for PKCδ-cat that can mediate its pro-apoptotic effects on mitochondria to amplify the apoptotic signaling induced by a wide range of apoptotic stimuli.
THE CHEMICAL BASIS OF THE PHOTO-OXIDATIVE ENHANCEMENT OF TRACK ETCHING IN THE POLYCARBONATE OF BISPHENOL-A

ABSTRACT In order to further the understanding of the chemical nature of the damage along nuclear tracks in polycarbonates and of the enhancement of this damage by photo-oxidation, the following study is undertaken. Available data on the radiolytic products of polycarbonate and model compounds are assembled together with the known photolytic behavior behavior of these materials in the presence and absence of oxygen. These properties are then used to interpret preferential track etching and the increase in track etch rate observed for polycarbonate upon exposure to UV radiation in the presence of oxygen. Studies such as this may lead to the ability to design molecular structures specifically for the task of nuclear track detection.
Relative physical stability of the solid forms of amiloride HCl

Abstract Amiloride HCl is available in two polymorphic dihydrate forms, either of which can be dehydrated to an anhydrous crystalline form. The anhydrate rapidly rehydrates to polymorph A of the dihydrate upon exposure to ambient relative humidity. The polymorph A and polymorph B dihydrates have similar melting points, FTIR spectra, and solubilities. X-ray powder diffraction can differentiate the two polymorphs, and quantitative estimates for mixed phase samples can be obtained. This technique was used to show that the composition of USP grade material varies by both vendor and lot number. Polymorph A was found to be more physically stable than polymorph B using X-ray powder diffraction to follow solid-state transformations upon milling or compressing both forms.
New England's Generation: The Great Migration and the Formation of Society and Culture in the Seventeenth Century

Acknowledgements Introduction 1. Decision 2. Passage 3. Transplantation 4. Competency 5. Legacy Appendix Index.
Tradeoffs between courtship, fighting, and antipredatory behavior by a lizard, Eumeces laticeps

Male fitness in many species depends strongly on social behaviors needed to obtain fertilizations and prevent loss of fertilizations to other males, but courtship, copulation, and fighting may incur increased risk of predation. When demands for reproductive and antipredatory behaviors conflict, fitness may be maximized by accepting some degree of risk to enhance reproductive success. To examine such tradeoffs, I introduced tethered conspecific males or females to adult male broad-headed skinks, Eumeces laticeps, in the field and observed how close they allowed a simulated predator (me) to approach before fleeing, or their latency to approach an introduced female located at different distances from the predator. When conspecific males were introduced, isolated and mate-guarding males initiated agonistic behaviors and permitted closer approach than control males, and mate-guarding males permitted closer approach than isolated males. When females were introduced, both isolated and mate-guarding males courted the introduced females and isolated males permitted closer approach than did mate-guarding males. These results for introduced males and females suggest that increasing risk was accepted when reproductive benefits were greater. Latency for isolated males to approach a conspecific female was greater when the predator was closer to the female, further suggesting sensitivity to predation risk during a reproductive opportunity. Relationships between reproductive and antipredatory behaviors have been studied much less than those between feeding and antipredatory behaviors, but this study indicates that animals balance increased risk of predation with the opportunity to perform several reproductively important behaviors.
New insights into Hoogsteen base pairs in DNA duplexes from a structure-based survey

Hoogsteen (HG) base pairs (bps) provide an alternative pairing geometry to Watson-Crick (WC) bps and can play unique functional roles in duplex DNA. Here, we use structural features unique to HG bps (syn purine base, HG hydrogen bonds and constricted C1'-C1' distance across the bp) to search for HG bps in X-ray structures of DNA duplexes in the Protein Data Bank. The survey identifies 106 A•T and 34 G•C HG bps in DNA duplexes, many of which are undocumented in the literature. It also uncovers HG-like bps with syn purines lacking HG hydrogen bonds or constricted C1'-C1' distances that are analogous to conformations that have been proposed to populate the WC-to-HG transition pathway. The survey reveals HG preferences similar to those observed for transient HG bps in solution by nuclear magnetic resonance, including stronger preferences for A•T versus G•C bps, TA versus GG steps, and also suggests enrichment at terminal ends with a preference for 5'-purine. HG bps induce small local perturbations in neighboring bps and, surprisingly, a small but significant degree of DNA bending (∼14°) directed toward the major groove. The survey provides insights into the preferences and structural consequences of HG bps in duplex DNA.
A finite element model for sound transmission through laminated composite plates

The finite element method is used to model the noise transmission through unstiffened and stiffened laminated composite panels of finite size into a closed cavity. Plate and acoustic finite elements are coupled and the frequencies of the coupled modes are determined. The model is then used to calculate the noise reduction of the panel. Results are compared to experimental values obtained at the NASA Langley Research Center. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the use of finite elements to model, for noise transmission calculations, complex structures, such as a stiffened composite panel or a composite panel with windows.
Cavitation at Sharp Edge Multi-Hole Baffle Plates

This paper reports results of an experimental investigation of cavitation caused by water flow through sharp edge multi-hole baffle plates at high speeds and large pressure drops. Such cavitation can be destructive to industrial systems due to the induced pipe wall vibrations that result. Incipient and critical cavitation numbers are design limits that are frequently needed in the design of systems implementing baffle plate type geometries to prevent adverse cavitation effects. The overall baffle plate loss coefficient, point of cavitation inception, and point where critical cavitation occurs are functions of baffle hole size, number of holes, and plate thickness. Sixteen total baffle plates were considered in the study with hole sizes ranging from 0.16 cm to 2.54 cm, total through area ranging between 11% and 60%, plate thickness ranging from 0.32–0.635 cm, and number of holes ranging from 4 to 1800. The plates were mounted in the test section of a 10.2 cm diameter schedule 40 pipe closed water flow loop. The focus of this paper is on how the influencing parameters affect the loss coefficient and the point of cavitation inception. The results show a complex dependency between the baffle plate loss coefficient with total through area ratio and the thickness to baffle hole diameter ratio. In general the loss coefficient decreases with increasing openness and increasing thickness to hole diameter ratio. A model based on the data is proposed to predict the loss coefficient for multi-holed baffle plates. Further, the data show that the cavitation number at the point of cavitation inception increases with increasing openness. However, with regard to the thickness to hole diameter ratio, the cavitation number at inception exhibits a local maximum at a ratio between 0.5 and 1.0. Models to allow prediction of the point of cavitation inception and the point where critical cavitation begins are presented in the paper.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Synthesis and biologic studies of iodinated (125I/127I) ethidium

Abstract An iodinated ( 125 I/ 127 I) ethidium derivative (3,8-diamino-5-[6′-( p -iodobenzoylamino)-4′-azahexyl]-6-phenylphenanthridinium chloride hydrochloride) was synthesized and characterized. The labeling yield of the 125 I-labeled derivative was 75% for carrier-free 125 I, with a radiochemical purity of 95%. The incubation of iodoethidium with calf thymus DNA resulted in a substantial enhancement of fluorescence yield, indicating the intercalation of this compound into DNA. In the presence of iodoethidium, the nuclei of methanol-treated mammalian cells fluoresced, while those of viable cells did not (since the plasma membrane is impermeable to iodoethidium). When viable cells were incubated with the reduced form of the derivative, 125 I/ 127 I-dihydroethidium traversed the plasma membrane, was oxidized in the cytoplasm, and intercalated into nuclear DNA. Finally, we tested the hypothesis that larger malignant solid tumors, containing a relatively greater percentage of degenerating permeable cells, can be targeted with 125 I-ethidium. In - vivo studies demonstrated a small but positive correlation (R = 0.72) between tumor volume and the uptake of the derivative. Because of the ubiquitous presence of abnormal permeable cells and necrosis in tumors, our results support the belief that radiolabeled DNA-intercalating or DNA-binding molecules may be of diagnostic and therapeutic value for a variety of solid tumors in humans.
Alterations in β-adrenergic receptor binding in partially and fully amygdala-kindled juvenile and adult rats

Abstract Twenty-eight-day-old (juvenile) rats were kindled with hourly stimulations to partial or fully kindled status. Adult rats were stimulated with hourly or daily stimulations. Alterations in [3H]dihydroalprenolol binding were determined 3 weeks after the last stimulation. We found that partially kindled, hourly stimulated juvenile rats showed a significant increase in the dissociation constant (Kd), with no change in maximal binding values. Fully kindled juvenile rats showed no change in Kd or Bmax. Partially kindled, hourly stimulated adult rats showed a significant decrease in Kd, with no change in Bmax. There was no change in Kd or Bmax values in fully kindled, hourly stimulated adult rats. Fully kindled, daily stimulated adult rats showed a decrease in maximal binding, with no change in Kd values. These findings indicate that kindling-induced β-adrenergic receptor alterations were influenced by the age of the animal and the kindling parameters used, as well as the extent to which the animals were kindled.