cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Isotonic length/force models of nine different skeletal muscles.

The isotonic length/force relationships of nine skeletal muscles in the cat's hindlimb were determined using electrical stimulation of the sciatic nerve branches. Large variability in the active, passive, total force patterns and elongation ranges was found. The lateral gastrocnemius (LG), medial gastrocnemius (MG), peroneus longus (PL), flexor digitorum longus (FDL), tibialis posterior (TP) and soleus (Sol) showed symmetric active force curces, whereas those of the extensor digitorum longus (EDL), tibialis anterior (TA) and peroneus brevis (PB) were asymmetric. The total force curves of the EDL, LG, MG, FDL, TP and Sol increased quasilinearly through the elongation range, whereas the PL and PB increased in a nonlinear fashion. The TA had an intermediate plateau. The ranges were generally asymmetric, with a longer shortening range than lengthening past the optimum length. A simple model of the active force was fitted to all except the MG, EDL and TA, which are complex, with at least two compartments. These were successfully fitted with a two-compartment model. The variabilities encountered in the various isotonic length/force curves confirm the need to represent muscles according to their architecture to account for the variety of properties exhibited, which reflect their adaptations to their functions.
Electromagnetic field singularities

An integral transform based method is given for determining information about the locating and properties of singularities of electromagnetic fields associated with axially symmetric radiating sources.
Application of the Bootstrap to Assess the Precision of Industry Risk Measures

ABSTRACT A recent contribution In the finance literature presents a goal programming solution to the problem of estimating the systematic risk (beta) of an operating division. The estimation problem is difficult, but the necessity of a reliable risk estimate is undeniable for sound capital budgeting decisions. This paper describes a method Introduced recently In the statistics literature for assessing the precision of the estimator.
Polymer deformation. III. Annealing of drawn polyethylene single crystals and fibers

Polyethylene single crystals plastically deformed by drawing as much as 100% and fibers that occasionally form during this deformation have been annealed at 121 and 125°C. Striations with a spacing similar to that measured with small-angle x-ray diffraction are observed on the fibers in contact with a substrate. No readily apparent change occurs during the annealing of freely suspended fibers. Similar striations are observed along slip bands and other grossly deformed regions within the crystals. Recrystallization through an “ameboid” motion occurs in both drawn and undrawn crystals on Mylar substrates and results in an irregular crystal boundary. The more usual type of recrystallization involving an increase in fold period appears to occur more readily at a given temperature in undrawn crystals than in the plastically deformed ones. The b axis in drawn crystals was found to rotate during the annealing treatment so as to be nearly perpendicular to the draw direction. Any polymer in the monoclinic unit cell returns to the more stable orthorhombic unit cell.
A knowledge-based approach to support the generation of construction schedules

Abstract Computerized support of the task of generating construction schedules is currently limited to provide a network representation of activities manually defined and sequenced. This definition of the activities, their characteristics (resource allocation, duration, etc.), and their sequencing demands substantial expertise and is time consuming. This research work attempts to provide intelligent support to the construction scheduler. A Knowledge-Based Systems approach is used, which involves three major phases: (1) knowledge acquisition from experts; (2) formalization of the elicited knowledge; and (3) production of a prototype Knowledge-Based System. An extensive program of interaction with industry expert schedulers is described here. The status of the computer implementation work is discussed as well.
Lack of central 5-hydroxytryptamine influence on the anticonflict activity of diazepam

This study examined the effects of various drug treatments (IP injections) proposed to modify central 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) activity on a conditioned suppression of drinking behavior in water-deprived rats. The subjects were trained to drink their daily water requirement during a 10-min session. Intermittent tone periods of 7 s were then introduced, the last 5 s of which the drinking tube was electrified. The animals gradually suppressed tube contacts during the tone to a low constant level within 2 weeks of training. Diazepam increased punished responding dramatically. The 5-HT antagonists methysergide (1–18 mg/kg), cyproheptadine (1–18 mg/kg), metergoline (0,25–2.0 mg/kg) and cinanserin (10–100 mg/kg) failed to induce large, reliable increases in punished responding. When a low dose of diazepam was combined with 5-HT antagonists, only one treatment, methysergide at 3 mg/kg, potentiated the anticonflict activity of diazepam. Acute or chronic treatment with PCPA increased behavior suppressed by punishment, but this effect was weak, brief, and poorly related to the depletion of brain 5-HT. LSD (0.3–100 μg/kg) administered 1,10, or 30 min before the test was ineffective in overcoming suppression by punishment. Mescaline (6–30 mg/kg) had no significant effect on punished responding. 5-HTP (18 mg/kg) decreased the number of shocks accepted, but not after pretreating with carbidopa. Pretreatment with carbidopa plus 5-HTP potentiated the anticonflict effect of diazepam. The 5-HT agonist mCPP (0.25–2.0 mg/kg) enhanced suppression due to punishment, but only in doses that interfered with unpunished responding. The 5-HT-releasing agent fenfluramine (0.25–1.0 mg/kg) did not affect this behavior. Amitriptyline pretreatment in a dose not affecting unpunished behavior (5.6 mg/kg) potentiated the diazepam-induced increase in punished responding. These results are difficult to reconcile with the proposal that suppression of behavior consequent to punishment is related to brain 5-HT activity.
Synthesis and biological evaluation in Mice of (2-[11C]methoxy)-6′,7′-dihydrorotenol, a second generation rotenoid for marking mitochondrial complex I activity

Abstract Evidence has accumulated suggesting that impairment of the function of the complexes of the mitochondrial respiratory chain might be involved in the pathology of neurological diseases including Parkinson's and Huntington's diseases. Recently we reported the synthesis of (2-[ 11 C]methoxy)rotenone ([ 11 C]ROT) as a tool for in vivo studies of complex I. In an effort to develop a complex I imaging radiotracer which might be easier to synthesize and less likely to be metabolized, we prepared (2-[ 11 C]methoxy)-6′,7′-dihydrorotenol ([ 11 C]DHROT). The radiotracer was synthesized by [ 11 C]methylation of 2- O -desmethyl-6′,7′-dihydrorotenol under basic [ 11 C]alkylation conditions. (2-[ 11 C]Methoxy)-6′,7′-di-hydrorotenol was produced in 30–35% radiochemical yields (decay corrected), with synthesis times shorter than 35 min. Radiochemical purities were over 95% and specific activities averaged 1000 Ci/mmol. The brain distributions of [ 11 C]ROT and ( 11 C]DHROT were investigated in mice after intravenous injections. For both radiotracers, distribution of radioactivity was similar in all brain regions examined. However, significantly higher uptake was observed with ( 11 C]DHROT than with [ 11 C]ROT, indicating that the alterations introduced in the structure of rotenone during the design of [ 11 C]DHROT resulted in a tracer with greater brain barrier permeability.
Age, gender-role orientation, and attitudes toward menstruation.

Students aged 18 to 23 yr. at a community college in suburban New Jersey and adults aged 30 to 39 yr. from suburban New Jersey completed the 1974 Bern Sex-role Inventory and Brooks-Gunn and Ruble's...
Vector modifications to eliminate transposase expression following piggyBac-mediated transgenesis

Transgene insertion plays an important role in gene therapy and in biological studies. Transposon-based systems that integrate transgenes by transposase-catalyzed “cut-and-paste” mechanism have emerged as an attractive system for transgenesis. Hyperactive piggyBac transposon is particularly promising due to its ability to integrate large transgenes with high efficiency. However, prolonged expression of transposase can become a potential source of genotoxic effects due to uncontrolled transposition of the integrated transgene from one chromosomal locus to another. In this study we propose a vector design to decrease post-transposition expression of transposase and to eliminate the cells that have residual transposase expression. We design a single plasmid construct that combines the transposase and the transpositioning transgene element to share a single polyA sequence for termination. Consequently, the separation of the transposase element from the polyA sequence after transposition leads to its deactivation. We also co-express Herpes Simplex Virus thymidine kinase (HSV-tk) with the transposase. Therefore, cells having residual transposase expression can be eliminated by the administration of ganciclovir. We demonstrate the utility of this combination transposon system by integrating and expressing a model therapeutic gene, human coagulation Factor IX, in HEK293T cells.
Networks for on‐line data base access

This tutorial paper discusses network sharing of resources-hardware, software, communication, and data bases-and reasons for using networks for on-line data base searching. Uses of on-line systems include retrospective searching, quick questions, current awareness, search strategy development, training, and bibliometric studies. The requirements for on-line searching in terms of equipment, personnel, and development of search strategy are discussed as are the costs and advantages associated with such services.
Benchmarking Hospitality Management Curricula: A Comparison of Top US Programs

(1998). Benchmarking Hospitality Management Curricula: A Comparison of Top US Programs. Journal of Hospitality & Tourism Education: Vol. 10, No. 3, pp. 41-46.
Racial Disparities in Diffusion, Comparative Morbidity, and Disease Control of Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy Compared to Conformal Radiation Therapy for Localized Prostate Cancer

benign and malignant cases. Results: In 2008-2009 there were 477904 screening mammography examinations in Hungary. 5.15 % of participating women were recalled. The attendance of re-called women was 92.25 %. Altogether 2092 women (9.7 %) were referred for breast surgery but only 1485 women (71.0 %) underwent surgery. Histological examination confirmed 281 benign (18.9 %) and 1204 malignant (81.1 %) cases. ConClusions: The quality indicators of the Hungarian organized mammography screening program met the recommendations of international professional guidelines. However, in addition to current indicators, new ones should be introduced in order to provide a more comprehensive monitoring of the program.
CORR Insights®: What Are the Results Using the Modified Trapdoor Procedure to Treat Chondroblastoma of the Femoral Head?

This CORR Insights® is a commentary on the article “What Are the Results Using the Modified Trapdoor Procedure to Treat Chondroblastoma of the Femoral Head?” by Xu and colleagues available at: DOI: 10.1007/s11999-014-3771-y. The author certifies that he, or any member of his immediate family, has no funding or commercial associations (eg, consultancies, stock ownership, equity interest, patent/licensing arrangements, etc) that might pose a conflict of interest in connection with the submitted article. All ICMJE Conflict of Interest Forms for authors and Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research ® editors and board members are on file with the publication and can be viewed on request. The opinions expressed are those of the writers, and do not reflect the opinion or policy of CORR ® or the Association of Bone and Joint Surgeons®. This CORR Insights® comment refers to the article available at DOI: 10.1007/s11999-014-3771-y.
The Design and Application of a Retargetable Peephole Optimizer

Peephole optimizers improve object code by replacing certain sequences of instructions with better sequences. This paper describes PO, a peephole optimizer that uses a symbolic machine description to simulate pairs of adjacent instructions, replacing them, where possible, with an equivalent single instruction. As a result of this organization, PO is machine independent and can be described formally and concisely: when PO is finished, no instruction, and no pair of adjacent instructions, can be replaced with a cheaper single instruction that has the same effect. This thoroughness allows PO to relieve code generators of much case analysis; for example, they might produce only load/add-register sequences and rely on PO to, where possible, discard them in favor or add-memory, add-immediate, or increment instructions. Experiments indicate that naive code generators can give good code if used with PO.
Tricarboxylic acid cycle activity in postischemic rat hearts.

BACKGROUND Although myocardial oxidative tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle activity and contractile function are closely linked in normal cardiac muscle, their relation during postischemic reperfusion, when contractility often is reduced, is not well defined. METHODS AND RESULTS To test the hypothesis that oxidative TCA cycle flux is reduced in reperfused myocardium with persistent contractile dysfunction, TCA cycle flux was measured by analyzing the time course of sequential myocardial glutamate labeling during 13C-labeled substrate infusion with 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy in beating isolated rat hearts at 37 degrees C. Total TCA cycle flux, indexed by both empirical and mathematical modeling analyses of the 13C data, was not reduced but rather increased in hearts reperfused after 17-20 minutes of ischemia (left ventricular pressure, 73 +/- 5% of preischemic values) compared with flux in developed pressure-matched controls (e.g., total flux, 2.5 +/- 0.4 versus 1.6 +/- 0.1 mumol.min-1.g wet wt-1, respectively; p CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that TCA cycle activity is not persistently decreased in dysfunctional reperfused myocardium after a brief ischemic episode and therefore cannot account for the reduced contractile function at that time.
Effects of SR 141716A after acute or chronic cannabinoid administration in dogs

Abstract The effects of N-(piperidin-1-yl)-5-(4-chlorophenyl)-1-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-4-methyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxamide HCl (SR 141716A), a specific cannabinoid receptor antagonist, were assessed in the dog static ataxia test after either acute treatment with two cannabinoid receptor agonists, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and arachidonylethanolamide (anandamide), or chronic treatment with Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol. As previously reported, acute intravenous (i.v.) injected Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol produced dose-dependent cannabinoid effects, including marked static ataxia, prancing, loss of muscle tone, and incoordination. The behavioral profile of anandamide was distinctly different in that it produced a loss of muscle tone and considerable sedation with little static ataxia, prancing, or incoordination. Despite these qualitative differences between the two agonists, SR 141716A blocked the acute behavioral effects of both drugs indicating a cannabinoid receptor mechanism of action. Interestingly, SR 141716A was able to precipitate a withdrawal syndrome in Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol-tolerant dogs, but failed to produce any observable effects in dogs receiving chronic vehicle injections. Acute toxicity caused by anandamide, which was not blocked by SR 141716A, precluded conducting dependence studies with this drug. The Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol precipitated withdrawal syndrome included diarrhea, vomiting, excessive salivation, decreases in social behavior, and increases in restless behavior and trembling. This is the first demonstration of a precipitated withdrawal syndrome in a non-rodent species.
Mechanical properties of nano-silver joints as die attach materials

Abstract This review traces the development of silver (Ag) as a die attach bonding material in the microelectronic packaging industry from its’ early days as micron-scale silver flakes to the recent nanoscale Ag paste and other derivatives. Basic materials properties include the composition of Ag pastes, the methods of producing Ag nanoparticles, and product applications will be presented. Key processing conditions will be discussed to elucidate different factors which influence the mechanical properties of nano-Ag joints, principally the tensile and shear strength as well as thermal fatigue properties. Success in implementing nano-scale Ag pastes could only have been possible by deriving a fundamental understanding developed in the field of processing and using ceramic and metallic nano-powders.
Role of natriuretic peptides in cGMP production in fetal cardiac bypass.

Background. We previously showed cyclic guanosine 3’,5’-monophosphate (cGMP) levels increase with fetal cardiac bypass despite derangements in the placental nitric oxide pathway. The natriuretic peptides, atrial (ANP), brain (BNP), and c-type (CNP), are common indicators of cardiac distress, and an alternative pathway for cGMP generation. We hypothesized that these natriuretic peptides may account for the paradoxic rise in cGMP seen with fetal bypass. Methods. Six ovine fetuses, 106 to 118 days’ gestation, underwent cardiac bypass for 30 minutes and were followed for 120 minutes after bypass. Fetal plasma samples were collected before bypass, during bypass, and 30 and 120 minutes after bypass for natriuretic peptide analysis. Results were compared with 6 sham bypass fetuses and cGMP values from another 14 bypass fetuses (to avoid confounding effects of excess blood sampling). Fetal hemodynamics and metabolics were correlated to ANP, BNP, and CNP values. Statistical analysis was by analysis of variance, Student=s t test, and best-fit correlations, with significance set at p 0.05 or less. Results. The ANP, BNP, and CNP increased with fetal bypass (674 133 pg/mL, 151 52 pg/mL, and 295 45 pg/mL, respectively), remaining elevated after bypass, whereas sham concentrations remained stable at prebypass levels. Changes in ANP, BNP, and CNP positively correlated with rising cGMP. There was positive correlation between ANP and CNP and rising fetal lactate levels, but not to other physiologic parameters associated with placental dysfunction. Conclusions. There is a substantial rise in natriuretic peptides seen with fetal bypass, likely in part a reflection of myocardial dysfunction. Further, the natriuretic peptide pathway may account for the paradoxic rise in cGMP seen with fetal bypass.
Adverse effects of newer cephalosporins. An update.

while classifications into generations according to antimicrobial activity has helped clinicians incorporate the increasing number of cephalosporins into their pharmacological repertoire, adverse effects among the different agents fail to follow similar categories. In general, cephalosporins are fairly well tolerated antibiotics, and toxicity has been limited to specific agents. Subtle differences in chemical structure and pharmacokinetics can influence the potential for adverse effects. The route of administration may result in minor adverse reactions, including thrombophlebitis and pain. The most common adverse effects of cephalosporins are allergic reactions, occurring in 0.9 to 3.2% of patients. Cephalosporins have very rarely been associated with haematological toxicity (less than 1% of patients), but specific agents have been associated with neutropenia, hypoprothrombinaemia, haemolytic anaemia, and problems with platelet production and function. Other reactions include localised gastrointestinal disturbances, hepatotoxicity (e.g. biliary sludging), nephrotoxicity and mild central nervous system effects. The cephalosporins are generally well tolerated in the paediatric population. Very few interactions have been observed between cephalosporins and other drugs, largely because cephalosporins do not affect the microsomal P450 hepatic enzyme system. While cephalosporins are considered to be relatively ‘safe’ drugs, the introduction of newer members warrants continued careful observation for reporting of adverse drug reactions.
Sequential forms of ATPase activity correlated with changes in cation binding and membrane potential from meiosis to first cleavage in R. pipiens

Abstract Changes in cortical membrane potential, cation binding, subcellular aggregation, ATPase activity, phosphoprotein phosphatase activity and inorganic phosphate levels have been measured in the R. pipiens egg from meiotic prophase to first cleavage. 1. 1. Between meiotic prophase (oocyte) and metaphase of the second maturation division (ovulated egg), the egg cortex depolarizes and the egg cytoplasm becomes positive relative to the external environment. Fertilization is accompanied by a transient positive hyperpolarization and the potential returns to the level of the ovulated egg by the completion of meiosis (15 to 20 min). The egg cytoplasm remains positive until first cleavage when the cortex slowly repolarizes and the cytoplasm again becomes negative relative to the external medium. 2. 2. During the depolarization phase there is an increase in K+, Ca2+ and Mg2+ binding to the cortical pigment granule fraction and an increase in soluble Na+, Ca2+ and Mg2+. Concomitant with these ionic shifts there occurs a massive subcellular disaggregation. During the rising phase of the hyperpolarization there is a release of bound Na+, K+, Ca2+, and Mg2+ and a rapid efflux of 15 to 25% of the Na+, K+, and Mg2+ and 80% of the Ca2+. By first cleavage, the cations remaining in the egg are largely recovered in both the yolk platelet and pigment granule fractions. 3. 3. In meiotic prophase the principal ATPase is Na-K-Mg activated, Ca-inhibited and ouabain sensitive, consistent with the negative potential and the K+ selectivity of the cell membrane. By metaphase of the second maturation division, ATPase activity has increased five-fold and is now Ca-activated and ouabain insensitive, consistent with the apparent disappearance of active Na+ transport. After fertilization the endogenous ATPase activity slowly declines and the Mg-requirement returns. The enzyme again becomes Ca-inhibited and ouabain sensitive by first cleavage.
G proteins in cellular control

In the past year, cDNA cloning has revealed substantial diversity in G protein alpha, beta and gamma subunits. The number of cellular functions recognized to be controlled by G proteins is also increasing. Most G proteins are associated with the cytoplasmic surface of the plasma membrane, and molecular mechanisms for membrane association of certain G protein subunits have been defined recently. Mutations in G protein subunits, both artificially induced and naturally occurring, have provided important insights into G protein structure and function.
Adverse effects of hyperlipidemia on bone regeneration and strength

Hyperlipidemia increases the risk for generation of lipid oxidation products, which accumulate in the subendothelial spaces of vasculature and bone. Atherogenic high-fat diets increase serum levels of oxidized lipids, which are known to attenuate osteogenesis in culture and to promote bone loss in mice. In this study, we investigated whether oxidized lipids affect bone regeneration and mechanical strength. Wild-type (WT) and hyperlipidemic (Ldlr(-/-)) mice were placed on a high-fat (HF) diet for 13 weeks. Bilateral cranial defects were introduced on each side of the sagittal suture, and 5 weeks postsurgery on the respective diets, the repair/regeneration of cranial bones and mechanical properties of femoral bones were assessed. MicroCT and histological analyses demonstrated that bone regeneration was significantly impaired by the HF diet in WT and Ldlr(-/-) mice. In femoral bone, cortical bone volume fraction (bone volume [BV]/tissue volume [TV]) was significantly reduced, whereas cortical porosity was increased by the HF diet in Ldlr(-/-) but not in WT mice. Femoral bone strength and stiffness, measured by three-point bending analysis, were significantly reduced by the HF diet in Ldlr(-/-), but not in WT mice. Serum analysis showed that the HF diet significantly increased levels of parathyroid hormone, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, calcium, and phosphorus, whereas it reduced procollagen type I N-terminal propeptide, a serum marker of bone formation, in Ldlr(-/-), but not in WT mice. The serum level of carboxyl-terminal collagen crosslinks, a marker for bone resorption, was also 1.7-fold greater in Ldlr(-/-) mice. These findings suggest that hyperlipidemia induces secondary hyperparathyroidism and impairs bone regeneration and mechanical strength.
Hormonal Regulation of Androgen Biosynthesis by Primary Cultures of Testis Cells from Neonatal Rats

Enzymatically dispersed testis cells derived from 7-day-old male rats maintained their gonadotropin-stimulated testosterone production for 18 days in culture. Treatment with hCG or LH stimulated androgen production in a dose-dependent manner, with ED50 values of 0.030 +/- 0.007 and 1.0 +/- 0.4 ng/ml for hCG and LH, respectively. Concomitant treatment with a phosphodiesterase inhibitor further enhanced LH action. In contrast, treatment with FSH, GH, or PRL was without effect. Treatment with forskolin, cholera toxin, or 8-bromo-cAMP induced dose-dependent increases in testosterone biosynthesis; this was accompanied by stimulation of 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity after treatment with hCG, forskolin, or 8-bromo-cAMP. RIA measurement of different androgens in HPLC-fractionated medium revealed that the main androgen secreted by the neonatal testis cells was testosterone, with lower production of 5 alpha-androstane-3 alpha,17 beta-diol and negligible 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone, androstenedione, and androsterone. Treatment with epidermal growth factor, GnRH, and arginine vasopressin (AVP) decreased hCG-induced testosterone biosynthesis. Since the inhibitory actions of GnRH and AVP were blocked by concomitant addition of specific hormone antagonists, their inhibitory actions were probably mediated by specific testis receptors. In contrast, treatment with several potent synthetic steroid hormone analogs [diethylstilbestrol (an estrogen), dexamethasone (a glucocorticoid), R5020 (a progestin; 17,21-dimethyl-19-nor-4,9-pregnadiene-3,20-dione), R1881 (an androgen; 17 beta-hydroxy-17 alpha-methyl-4,9,11-estratrien-3-one), or cyproterone acetate (an antiandrogen; 17 alpha-acetyloxy-6-chloro-1,2-dihydro-(1 beta,2 beta)3'-H-cyclopropa-(1,2) pregna-1,4,6-trien-3,20-dione)] did not affect testosterone biosynthesis in hCG-treated cells. These results demonstrate that testosterone production by neonatal testis cells is maintained by gonadotropins during prolonged culture; the ability of cAMP-generating drugs and a cAMP analog to mimic gonadotropin actions on testosterone biosynthesis and 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity suggests a mediatory role of cAMP in gonadotropin action; and AVP, epidermal growth factor, and GnRH, through their putative testis receptors, directly inhibit gonadotropin-stimulated testosterone synthesis, while various steroids (androgens, estrogens, progestins, and glucocorticoids) do not affect Leydig cell function in the neonatal testis. The present culture system offers a unique model for elucidating the hormonal control of Leydig cell androgen biosynthesis during neonatal development.
Time-frequency analysis of optical communication signals and effects of second and third order dispersion

Summary form only given. Channel data rates in optical communication systems are continually increasing with 40 and 80 Gbps rate systems under development today and bit-rates up to 640 Gbps demonstrated in laboratory experiments. Dispersive effects due to propagation through fiber and wavelength-division-multiplexing (WDM) channel filters distort optical signals, requiring dispersion compensation. In addition, systems with high data rates or WDM channels ranging over wide wavelength range also require dispersion slope compensation. We describe time-frequency analysis and measurements of amplitude- and phase-modulated optical signals. Such spectrogram representation of communication signals clearly shows spectral evolution of the signals, the effects of dispersion and dispersion slope on the signals, and can help in the design of spectrally-efficient, single or multichannel high-speed optical communication signals and systems.
Rna polymerase activities in heart tissue of aging mice.

Abstract RNA polymerase activities have been measured in heart tissue of C57B1/6J mice to determine if any change can be correlated with decreasing survivorship of the animals. The RNA polymerases were solubilized by homogenization of the tissue in a buffer of high ionic strength. The multiple enzymes were resolved by differential elution from DEAE-Sephadex. Enzyme activity in the column fractions was quantitated by measuring the incorporation of [3H]UMP into RNA using heat denatured calf thymus DNA as the template. The data were normalized to tissue DNA levels as measured by the diphenylamine procedure. Statistically significant decrease in polymerase I and polymerase II activities were observed in animals ranging in age from 21 to 30 months. Polymerase III levels in these animals did not significantly differ. Since these age groups span the period of most rapid decline in survivorship in the colony of mice (from 97% to 25%), it suggests that the decreases in heart RNA polymerase activities may be related to the decreasing survivorship. Heart tissue from 30-month old animals that had experienced stress was also studied. In these animals the polymerase I activity increased, the polymerase II activity decreased, but the polymerase III activity remained constant when compared to non-stressed animals of the same age. The results demonstrate that these old animals are capable of increasing polymerase I activity in response to physiological stimuli. Collectively the data suggest that the level of each polymerase is regulated independently.
OspC Phylogenetic Analyses Support the Feasibility of a Broadly Protective Polyvalent Chimeric Lyme Disease Vaccine

Using available Borrelia outer surface protein C (OspC) sequences, a phylogenetic analysis was undertaken to delineate the number of antigenic domains required for inclusion in a broadly protective, chimeric, OspC-based Lyme disease vaccine. The data indicate that approximately 34 would be required and that an OspC-based vaccinogen is feasible.
Dihydrosterculate in Tobacco Transformed with Bacterial Cyclopropane Fatty Acid Synthase

Many gram negative bacteria accumulate cyclopropane fatty acids (CPFAs) in their membranes during stationary phase. In plants, on the other hand, CPFAs are best known as constituents of certain seed oils. CPFAs make up around 40% of Litchi chinensis seed oil [1] and a significant proportion of oils from other Sapindales. In order Malvales, small amounts of CPFA typically accompany cyclopropene fatty acids in seed oils, although up to 5% CPFA has been observed in the polar lipid fraction from Malvaceous roots [2]. Genetic engineering of oilseeds for unusual fatty acid production requires that the introduced fatty acids accumulate in triacylglycero1 without compromising membrane structure or function. A major purpose of this study has been to determine whether a higher plant would express a bacterial CPFA synthase, and, if so, how the resulting CPFA would be partitioned.
Mitigation of linear and nonlinear impairments in high-speed optical networks by using LDPC-coded turbo equalization

We study a turbo equalization scheme based on low-density parity-check (LDPC) coded turbo equalization (TE). This scheme is suitable for simultaneous: (i) suppression of intra-channel nonlinearities, (ii) chromatic dispersion compensation, and (iii) polarization-mode dispersion (PMD) compensation. LDPC coding is based on large girth (g ges 8) block-circulant codes, and maximum a posteriori probability (MAP) equalizer is based on Bahl-Cocke-Jelinek-Raviv (BJCR) algorithm. The ultimate channel capacity limits, assuming an independent identically distributed (i.i.d.) source are reported as well. In the presence of intrachannel nonlinearities the LDPC-coded TE provides almost 12 dB improvement over BCJR equalizer at BER of 10-8. For an NRZ system operating at 10 Gb/s with residual dispersion of 11200 ps/nm and for differential group delay of 50 ps, the LDPC-coded TE is only 1 dB away from the i.i.d channel capacity. The efficiency of LDPC-coded TE in PMD compensation is demonstrated experimentally, with decoding performed off line.
THE POLITICAL ECONOMY OF INDUSTRIAL GROWTH IN INDIA

The deceleration of industrial growth in India since the mid-sixties has opened up a debate over industrial policy as the new government of Rajiv Gandhi has attempted to replace many bureaucratic controls by market processes. A central issue is whether the deceleration is due primarily to inadequate investment in key sectors of the economy (a point on which there is considerable agreement) or whether resources have also been inefficiently employed. State controls put in place by antibureaucratic and anticapitalist socialists created interests within the bureaucracy, the governing Congress Party, and the business community, which sustain an industrial structure that the present government, its new orientation notwithstanding, will find difficult to dismantle.
Definitional Issues in Violence Against Women

Issues relevant to defining violence against women include the importance of severity of aggressive behavior in partner relationships, relationships among types of abusive behavior, and adequacy of explanatory models of partner violence. Severity of aggression is important for describing and understanding partner violence. Different types of abusive behavior should be assessed to account for variation in partner abuse. Constructs drawn from multiple domains are needed to adequately explain partner aggression across the range of severity of partner abuse. Standardized structured interviews to assess partner violence in high-risk surveillance would complement checklists for general population surveillance.
Immunological studies of the Snell-Bagg pituitary dwarf mouse.

SummaryThe Snell-Bagg dwarf mouse was immunologically deficient as shown by severe lymphopenia, decreased agglutinating antibody response to sheep erythrocytes and Brucella antigen, and decreased graft-versus-host reactivity of dwarf spleen cells. The lymphoid organs of the dwarf were small, atrophic, and generally depleted of small lymphocytes. Serum immunoglobulins appeared to be within normal ranges. These findings suggested a selective deficiency of the thymus-dependent lymphoid system of the dwarf, caused by a defective thymotropic pituitary control.
Time-of-day differences in dopamine clearance in the rat medial prefrontal cortex and nucleus accumbens.

Circadian rhythms influence cocaine-seeking behavior in rats, and this behavior may be mediated by variability in the rate of extracellular dopamine clearance across the day:night cycle. We used rotating disk electrode voltammetry to examine dopamine clearance and inhibition of clearance by cocaine in the rat medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and nucleus accumbens (NAc). Rats were housed under light:dark conditions (LD, 12 h:12 h) or in constant darkness (DD), the latter given just prior to the day of sacrifice. Tissue was collected at 4-h intervals under LD and DD conditions. Under LD, dopamine clearance in both brain regions was greatest at 4h after lights on. Under DD, there was a blunted but still rhythmic pattern of dopamine clearance across the 24-h cycle. Cocaine-induced inhibition of dopamine clearance in the mPFC was not different across the day:night cycle in rats under LD. Paradoxically, under DD, dopamine clearance in the mPFC was enhanced by cocaine at ZT16, 4 h into the subjective night, and only minimally inhibited at other times. In the NAc, cocaine inhibition of dopamine clearance was lowest at ZT4 under LD, and did not vary under DD. We conclude that dopamine clearance varies both in a diurnal and possibly in a circadian manner in the mPFC, and in a diurnal manner in the NAc. These results indicate that light itself may be used to manipulate molecules implicated in drug addiction. Synapse 62:877–885, 2008. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Mixed mating in a recently derived self-compatible population of Leavenworthia alabamica (Brassicaceae)

 Premise of the study : A mixture of outcrossing and selfi ng is often observed in plant populations. Although mixed mating is ubiquitous, it has several potential evolutionary explanations. Mixed mating may be actively maintained by selection, passively determined by the pollination environment, or a transitional stage during the evolution of self-fertilization.  Methods : We studied patterns of self-compatibility and selfi ng rates in a population of Leavenworthia alabamica that recently lost self-incompatibility. We also experimentally tested whether natural selection against selfi ng at the pre- or postzygotic stage is suffi cient to explain mixed mating in this population.  Key results : Visualizing pollen tube growth following self-pollination, we found that nearly all plants were fully self-compatible. Progeny array analysis revealed that the average selfi ng rate of the population was s = 0.523. The inbreeding coeffi cient in the parents ( F = 0.539) exceeded the amount expected if the selfi ng rate ( s ) were constant [ F eq = s /(2 � s )], indicating either population subdivision or higher selfi ng rates in the past. Inference of family-level selfi ng rates revealed substantial variation. Experiments found that self and outcross pollen fertilized nearly equal numbers of ovules in competition. Comparison of seed production following self- or cross-pollination failed to implicate early acting inbreeding depression as a factor maintaining mixed mating.  Conclusions : The results of our experiments suggest that mixed mating is not maintained by selection against self-pollen or zygotes in this population. Mixed mating is most likely a byproduct of the pollination process but may also be a transitional stage during the evolution of higher selfi ng rates.
Efficient implementation methodology for three-dimensional space-invariant hypercube-based optical interconnection networks

A new design methodology for constructing optical space-invariant hypercube interconnection networks for connection of a two-dimensional array of inputs to a two-dimensional array of outputs is presented. The methodology permits the construction of larger hypercube networks from smaller networks in a systematic and incremental fashion. It is shown that the proposed methodology greatly improves area utilization as compared with previous methods. An example network is provided that illustrates the proposed design method. Owing to their totally space-invariant nature, the resulting three-dimensional hypercube networks are highly amenable to optical implementations by use of simple optical hardware such as multiple-imaging components and space-invariant holographic techniques. We present a space-invariant optical implementation technique for the realization of such networks. A theoretical analysis of the physical limitations of the implementation method is also presented. The analysis indicates that two-dimensional arrays of 512 × 512 nodes interconnected in a hypercube (18-cube) topology could be implemented.
Heritage Language Instruction and Giftedness in Language Minority Students: Pathways Toward Success

Language minority students, while often underrepresented in traditional gifted programs, can benefit from “heritage language” courses focused on developing academic proficiency and exploring challenging content in their home language. We describe how heritage language courses can provide an appropriate venue for the identification of gifted potential among language minority students, how such courses can enhance student motivation for learning, and what cognitive benefits may be associated with additive bilingualism developed through such courses.
Extracting behavioral information from electronic storyboards

In this paper we outline methods for extracting behavioral descriptions of interactive prototypes from electronic storyboards. This information is used to help interdisciplinary design teams evaluate potential ideas early in the design process. Using electronic storyboards provides a common descriptive medium where team members from different disciplinary backgrounds can collectively express the intended behavior of their prototype. The behavioral information is extracted by a combination of visual tags applied to elements of the storyboard, analysis of storyboard layout, and natural language processing of text written in the frames. We describe this process, provide a proof of concept example, and discuss design choices in developing this tool.
Intra- and Intersubtype Alternative Pak2-Activating Structural Motifs of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Nef

The design of antiviral strategies against human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) has been largely derived from studies of subtype B viruses, although they constitute only 12% of infections worldwide. At 50% of all HIV-1 infections worldwide, subtype C viruses are the most predominant. Here, we present evidence that subtype C Nefs display functional Pak2-activating motifs that differ from those found in subtype B and E Nefs. The identification of multiple Pak2-activating structural motifs that singly affect one Nef activity revealed a functional plasticity that has implications for future drug and vaccine design aimed at HIV-1 Nef and its effects on the deregulation of the immune system.
Methodological Issues in the Epidemiological Investigations of Lung Cancer Related to Low-Level Risks

There are several major issues that create great difficulties in the study of low-level risks for lung cancer. Further attention needs to be addressed to the difficulties in design, ascertainment, classification, confounding and analysis found in the environmental epidemiological aspects of the investigation. Host predisposition is an important factor that requires further characterization in the process of conducting these environmental epidemiological investigations. Within the exposure assessment aspects of these investigations, major difficulties arise from the need to obtain total exposure estimates, dose estimates and in evaluating the interactions of the several pollutants of concern in exposure settings of interest. Low-level risks for lung cancer imply difficulties in the assessment of exposure-dose pattern. Further, bio-markers are needed to focus more on dose. Further, low-level risk ratios produce difficulties in distinguishing the effects of confounders. In order to facilitate further studies of lung cancer related to low-level risks, we will have to create new, more specific, and more efficient study designs. These studies will require much better exposure assessment and case ascertainment than typical of previous studies, and more complete measurement of confounders.
Oral Rehydration Therapy of Severe Diarrheal Dehydration

In 1980, 104 infants with seven to 15 percent dehydration due to severe diarrhea and vomiting were hospitalized in Tehran and treated in two separate phases, deficit therapy and maintenance therapy, using two isotonic oral solutions. For deficit therapy, solution A (sodium 80, potassium 20 mmol/1) was administered at a rate of 40 ml/kg per hour until all signs of dehydration dis appeared. For maintenance therapy, solution B (sodium 40, potassium 30 mmol/l) was given sip by sip at a rate of about 250 ml/kg per 24 hours until diarrhea stopped. Intravenous fluids were not used, even in severe dehydration and shock. The efficacy and safety of this regimen were confirmed by rapid and successful rehydration and correction of electrolyte abnormalities present on admission.
A125: Immunomodulatory Factors Produced by Mesenchymal Stem Cells After in vitro Priming with Danger Signals

Background/Purpose: We have previously shown that pre-exposure to IL-1β augments the immunosuppressive activity of MSC using the mixed lymphocyte reaction as a readout assay. In this project, we studied the profiles of inflammatory cytokines secreted by MSCs at the protein level to identify biomarkers in in vitroprimed MSCs. The objective of this study was to determine the MSC response to “danger signals.” Methods: MSCs were isolated from a healthy donor and cultured as per a protocol published earlier by the Skeletal Research Center. After three passages, 200,000 cells per 35 mm culture dish were incubated in 2 ml DMEM with 10% fetal bovine serum at 37°C for 5 days until 90% confluent. The MSCs were then treated with LPS (10 μg/ml), IL-1β (25 ng/ml), TNF-α (50 ng/ml), or poly (I:C) (30 ng/ml) overnight (18 hours). Control and treatment groups were done in triplicate. The culture media were then collected and analyzed for secreted mediators using the RayBiotech® Human Cytokine Array (2000), as per the manufacturer's protocol. Chemiluminescense was detected using Kodak BioMax MR film, and was analyzed using the ImageJ program (rsbweb.nih.gov). Normalization and fold-difference computations were then performed in MS Excel. Pathway analysis for biomarker detection was performed using the Ingenuity (ingenuity.com) program by the CWRU proteomics center. Results: There were clear distinctions in the patterns of inflammatory mediators produced by MSC upon exposure to LPS versus poly (I:C). LPS stimulated the production of mediators that affect mostly neutrophil chemotaxis and activation, including IL-8 (1.8 fold), CXCL7 (2 fold), CXCL5 (2.4 fold), CXCL1 (1.6 fold). However, poly (I:C) induced mediators with activities on T cells and NK cells including IL-15 (18 fold), IL-4 (23 fold), TGF-β3 (9.7 fold), CCL-18 (4.6 fold). While poly (I:C) stimulated IL-1β production (2.6 fold), LPS did not (0.7 fold), and neither agent increased TNF-α significantly (1.3 and 2.1 fold). Interestingly, there was marked production of CCL1 (12 fold) upon exposure of MSC to IL-1β but not to LPS (0.6 fold), TNF-α (1.3) or poly (I:C) (2.1 fold). Conclusion: Priming MSC by TLRs ligands triggered different cytokine and chemokine expression profiles. These profile patterns may signify framework of the upcoming immune responses in the tissue. Accordingly, the candidate biomarkers for ongoing MSC immunomodulatory activities should include those for neutrophils versus those for T/NK cells. Furthermore, our results strongly suggest involvement of IL-1β in MSCmediated activation of T-regulatory cells by induction of the CCR-8 ligand, CCL-1. CCR-8 is a known biomarker identifying CD4+ memory T-cells enriched for FoxP3+ T-regulatory cells and is involved in delivery of immunosuppression.
Validity of North Shore, Oahu, Hawaiian Islands Surf Observations

Abstract Surf information is imperative for safety, coastal planning, and engineering applications. Daily surf observations made primarily by lifeguards along the north shore of Oahu, Hawaii, have been digitized for the 35-year period from 1968 to 2002. The subjective nature of observations introduces uncertainty. This study analyzes the temporal consistency and estimates the accuracy of the observations. Comparisons are made to breaker heights derived from significant wave height and dominant wave period as measured by the nearest environmental buoys, one of which has a series length of 22 years. The comparison pairs are picked from the high-surf season of October through March for days dominated by long-period swell. The analysis shows the surf observations are consistent in time. The uncertainty is between 10% and 15% of the reported height, and the magnitude of the error increases with surf height. Given the large range in breaker heights on the north shore of Oahu, this error is small. Although the v...