cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Estrus and steroid-induced changes in circadian rhythms in a diurnal rodent, Octodon degus

Diurnal Octodon degus exhibited marked alterations in activity and temperature in conjunction with the 3 wk estrous cycle when housed in LD12:12 light cycle. On the day of estrus, mean daily activity increases 109%, mean core temperature rises .4 degree C, activity onset is advanced 2 h, and amplitudes of both rhythms decline compared with the 3 days prior to estrus. On the day following estrus, activity onset was delayed 4.9 h, and mean activity and core temperature fell below that of the preestrus period. Ovariectomy significantly reduced mean temperature (.98 degree C) but did not significantly alter mean activity, and eliminated cyclic effects of estrus. Estrogen replacement led to a nonsignificant elevation in mean activity and core temperature with no change in the phase angle of entrainment. Progesterone replacement significantly reduced mean core temperature and mean activity, while only the phase angle difference between temperature minimum and activity onset was significantly altered. Intact degus maintained in constant darkness displayed only transient fluctuations in activity onset and temperature minimum during and after estrus. Estrogen or progesterone treatment of ovariectomized, free-running degus altered mean temperature and activity levels, but did not influence tau. Changes in phase angle of entrainment during estrus are not the result of hormone effects on the circadian clock but likely reflect increased or decreased levels of activity.
The effects of avoidability and unavoidably of punishment on stimulus selection

Forty volunteers were tested to assess the effects of avoidable and unavoidable punishment (shock) on stimulus selection. Half of the Ss learned to avoid the shocks which followed presentation of a given stimulus while the other half were unable to avoid the shock. Results indicated that opposing selective tendencies were established toward that stimulus, the former group displaying increased selection and the latter group, decreased selection. These results were discussed with reference to the previously contradictory findings on the effect of (unavoidable) punishment on stimulus selection.
Train Braking Distance Estimation Under Different Operating Conditions

One of the critical factors in Positive Train Control (PTC) is accurately estimating the train braking distance under different conditions. Accurate estimation of the braking distance will allow the trains to be spaced closer together, with reasonable confidence that they will stop without causing a collision. This study will develop a dynamic model of a train consist that includes three railcars for performing a parametric study to evaluate how various elements will affect the train stopping distance, from an initial speed. Parameters that can be varied in the model include, initial train speed, railcar weight, wheel-rail interface condition, and dynamic braking force. Other parameters are included in the model such as aerodynamic drag forces and air brake forces. The model is based on a multibody formulation of the railcars, trucks (bogies), and suspensions. The paper will include the derivation of the mathematical model and the results of a numerical study in Matlab. The results indicate that the railcars’ weight and initial speed play a significant role in the stopping distance and the time required to stop the train. Our future work will include using this model for closed-loop control of the dynamic braking forces, such that the train braking distance and time to stop can be minimized, under various wheel-rail dynamic conditions.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Labeling hESCs and hMSCs with Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Non-Invasive in vivo Tracking with MR Imaging

In recent years, stem cell research has led to a better understanding of developmental biology, various diseases and its potential impact on regenerative medicine. A non-invasive method to monitor the transplanted stem cells repeatedly in vivo would greatly enhance our ability to understand the mechanisms that control stem cell death and identify trophic factors and signaling pathways that improve stem cell engraftment. MR imaging has been proven to be an effective tool for the in vivo depiction of stem cells with near microscopic anatomical resolution. In order to detect stem cells with MR, the cells have to be labeled with cell specific MR contrast agents. For this purpose, iron oxide nanoparticles, such as superparamagnetic iron oxide particles (SPIO), are applied, because of their high sensitivity for cell detection and their excellent biocompatibility. SPIO particles are composed of an iron oxide core and a dextran, carboxydextran or starch coat, and function by creating local field inhomogeneities, that cause a decreased signal on T2-weighted MR images. This presentation will demonstrate techniques for labeling of stem cells with clinically applicable MR contrast agents for subsequent non-invasive in vivo tracking of the labeled cells with MR imaging.
Filling the GAPS: description and evaluation of a primary care intervention for children with chronic health conditions.

Objectives.— Consistent with the "medical home" model, the GAPS program was developed to provide expanded care for children with a range of chronic health conditions within the context of primary care pediatric offices. Parents, pediatricians, and representatives from local Title V agencies participated to assess the child's and family's needs and to identify ways of addressing them. Methods.— Eleven pediatricians in 5 pediatric practices participated in the 4 main activities of the GAPS project: a) needs assessment; b) planning meeting among parents and pediatricians; c) practice-based advisory group; and d) Department of Public Health consultation. A telephone interview of parents and 2 needs assessment questionnaires completed by families were the 2 evaluation methods used. Results.— Parents were able to meet desires for "information" and "specific help." Moderate amounts of success were reported for meeting "contact" and "counseling" needs. Parents' explanations of unmet needs included lack of follow-through in obtaining services, unavailability of services, change of mind regarding needs, and pragmatic barriers. Socioeconomic status, the diagnosis and severity of the child's condition, and maternal psychological status were not significant predictors of success in families' ability to get their needs met. Conclusions.— Active collaboration among parents, pediatricians, and Department of Public Health staff helps to ensure comprehensive coordinated care for families of children with chronic health conditions. Considerable challenges remain in implementing effective medical homes.
How has evolution shaped human behavior? Richard Alexander's contribution to an important question

Abstract Richard Alexander has been a major contributor to the development of theory concerning the evolution of human sociality. His most important contributions include (1) a theory of the evolution of morality as a form of indirect reciprocity that aids in intergroup competition, (2) a theory of the relationship between biological evolution and culture, (3) an elaboration of Humphrey's theory of the human intellect as a social tool, (4) theories about human parental investment and nepotism, and (5) theories about scenario building, consciousness, and human communication. He also has offered a hypotheses on a large range of other human traits. He is a biologist and has also made major contributions to theories of speciation, communication, eusociality, and social organization in nonhuman animals and has contributed extensively to the study of a number of specific taxa other than the human species: crickets, katydids, cicadas, naked mole rats, and horses. His contribution to the study of nonhuman animals and evolutionary theory, in general, are sufficient to earn him a reputation as an outstanding leader in biology without reference to his work on humans. The same can be said for his contribution to the understanding of human sociality taken alone.
Detailed heat transfer coefficient distributions on a large-scale gas turbine blade tip

Measurements of detailed heat transfer coefficient distributions on a turbine blade tip were performed in a large-scale, low-speed wind tunnel facility, Tests were made on a five-blade linear cascade. The low-speed wind tunnel is designed to accommodate the 107.49 deg turn of the blade cascade. The mainstream Reynolds number based on cascade exit velocity was 5.3 × 10 5 . Upstream unsteady wakes were simulated using a spoke-wheel type wake generator. The wake Strouhal number was kept at 0 or 0.1. The central blade had a variable tip gap clearance, Measurements were made at three different tip gap clearances of about 1.1 percent, 2.1 percent, and 3 percent of the blade span. Static pressure distributions were measured in the blade mid-span and on the shroud surface. Detailed heat transfer coefficient distributions were measured on the blade tip surface using a transient liquid crystal technique
A simple derivation of microwave solar brightness temperatures and polarizations from thermal regions

Using the full magnetoionic theory in the microwave region along a ray-path through the solar chromosphere and corona we have obtained a convenient expression, and from it a simple diagram which permits the direct computation of the brightness temperature and circular polarization from a thermal source, for any combination of the physical parameters which enter in their computation.
The synthetic multivulval genes of C. elegans: functional redundancy, Ras-antagonism, and cell fate determination.

Summary: Development of the C. elegans vulva requires coordination between a strikingly complex set of molecular regulators and pathways. In particular, the correct specification of vulval cell-fates requires both the activation of RTK/Ras/Map kinase members as well as negative regulation by a set of genes known as the SynMuvs. SynMuvs comprise two functionally redundant sets of genes that appear to antagonize Ras pathway signaling. In this way, SynMuv genes act to limit the number of cells adopting vulval fates. Recently, a number of SynMuv genes have been shown to encode worm homologs of the Rb transcriptional-regulatory complex. These and other results are discussed and we present several models for understanding the role of SynMuv genes in vulval development. genesis 26:279–284, 2000. © 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Ionic Transport in Amorphous Oxides

To aid in understanding the electrical conductance of amorphous oxide films, some experimental and theoretical results on ionic transport in bulk oxide glasses are reviewed. Results on alkali and hydroxyl ion movement in fused silica are perhaps the most pertinent; results on other glasses help to test theories and to show the effects of additives and hydration of the glass.
Salvage of suboptimal prostate seed implantation: Reimplantation of underdosed region of prostate base

Abstract Purpose To demonstrate how a suboptimal 125I prostate implant can be salvaged by reimplantation. Methods and materials A 125I implant was preplanned to deliver 150 Gy to the prostate of a patient with early stage prostate cancer. A CT scan at 35 days postimplant indicated that V100 and D90 were 46% and 49 Gy, respectively. The cause was a systematic source placement error that left the base significantly underdosed. A reimplantation of the underdosed region was planned by superimposing a template grid onto the 35-day postimplant CT scan images and digitizing them into the treatment planning computer as if they were TRUS images. The reimplantation was carried out under fluoroscopy guidance so that the initial implant was visible. Results The reimplantation increased V100 and D90 to 98% and 201 Gy, respectively. The misplaced seeds resulted in a high dose to the apical region and urethra, which was further increased by the reimplantation. The patient experienced increased urinary morbidity, which was relieved by medication. Conclusion It is feasible to salvage a suboptimal prostate seed implant by reimplanting the underdosed regions under fluoroscopy guidance based on a plan generated from the postimplant CT scan.
A widely applicable extension of the random effects two-way layout: Its definition and statistical analysis based on group invariance

A type of data layout that may be considered as an extension of the two-way random effects analysis of variance is characterized and modeled based on group invariance. The data layout seems to be suitable for several scenarios in psychometrics, including the one in which multiple measurements are taken on each of a set of variables, and the measurements can be divided into exchangeable subsets. The algebraic structure of the model is studied, which leads to results that are applicable to such problems as estimating correlation matrix corrected for attenuation and testing symmetry hypotheses.
Seeing God as Cruel or Distant: Links with Divine Struggles Involving Anger, Doubt, and Fear of God's Disapproval

Many people experience what psychologists refer to as divine struggle: struggle focused on ideas about God or a perceived relationship with God. When trying to predict this type of spiritual struggle, it may be useful to consider a person's basic concept of God. We examined two facets of a negative God concept—seeing God as cruel or distant—as potential predictors of divine struggle. We expected that views of God as cruel and distant would correlate highly; however, we also proposed that each view would be especially useful in predicting certain forms of divine struggle. Specifically, we reasoned that seeing God as cruel would be especially useful in predicting anger at God and concern about God's anger or disapproval toward the self. In contrast, we proposed that seeing God as distant would be especially predictive of doubt about God's existence. These hypotheses received solid support in web-based studies with two samples (413 undergraduates and a broader sample of 471 U.S. adults).
Stability in a Semilinear Boundary Value Problem via Invariant Conefields

Abstract We give a geometric proof of stability for spatially nonhomogeneous equilibria in the singular perturbation problem u t = e 2 u xx + f ( x , u ), t ∈ R + , −1⩽ u ⩽1, with the Neumann boundary conditions on x ∈[0, 1]. The nonlinearity is of the form f ( x , u )≔(1− u 2 )( u − c ( x )), where c ( x ) is merely continuous with a finite number of zeros. The strength of the method is in dealing with non-transversal zeros of c , the case escaping the existing techniques of singular perturbations. The approach is also used for showing existence of unstable equilibria with one transition layer.
Maximizing lifetime for k-barrier coverage in energy harvesting wireless sensor networks

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) can be used effectively to form barriers that monitor strips of land for applicaions such as homeland security and critical infrastructure protection. Sensors are highly constrained in their energy usage, so when they harvest energy, it is neccessary that this energy be used effectively. When WSNs are used as barriers, they are typically deployed for extended period of time, so it is of great importance that the network has a long lifetime. The lifetime problem for WSNs has been studied extensively. In this paper we give an exact solution to the problem of achieving maximum lifetime for the application of k-barrier coverage in energy harvesting wireless sensor networks.
Identification of HsORC4, a Member of the Human Origin of Replication Recognition Complex

Abstract A new member of human origin recognition complex (ORC) has been cloned and identified as the human homologue ofSaccharomyces cerevisiae ORC4. HsORC4 is a 45-kDa protein encoded by a 2.2-kilobase mRNA whose amino acid sequence is 29% identical to ScORC4. HsORC4 has a putative nucleotide triphosphate binding motif that is not seen in ScORC4. HsORC4P also reveals an unsuspected homology to the ORC1-Cdc18 family of proteins. HsORC4 mRNA expression and protein levels remain constant through the cell cycle. HsORC4P is coimmunoprecipitated from cell extracts with another subunit of human ORC, HsORC2P, consistent with it being a part of the putative human origin recognition complex.
A comparison of theoretical rock models with laboratory data

Abstract A number of rock modelling theories based on single-crystal data were tested in order to assess their effectiveness in modelling actual laboratory rock data. These theories included the Voigt, Reuss, and Hashin-Shtrikman bounds for isotropic single-phase pore free aggregates and composites; and, the self-consistent inclusion theories of Hashin-Shtrikman, Wu, and Walsh, and Thomsen's Biot-consistent approach for porous materials. The results for very low porosity rocks (effectively pore free) indicate that models based on Hashin-Shtrikman theory yield narrow bounds which accurately predict mean laboratory P- and S-wave velocities. However, meaningful comparisons require careful and accurate rock characterization in terms of mineral composition and texture. The theories for porous rock models yielded S-wave velocities which were not as consistent as their counterpart P-wave velocities in matching the laboratory data. Moreover, the discrepancies increase markedly as rock porosity increases. This result reflects primarily, differences in internal microcrack structure and composition between that assumed in the theoretical modelling procedures, and that present in the actual rock samples. Saturated and dry rocks containing cracks were most successfully modelled by the Biot-consistent theory proposed recently by Thomsen (1985).
Correction of gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase deficiency in amniotic fluid of some cystic fibrosis fetuses by mixing with nondeficient fluids.

ABSTRACT: The deficiency of γ-glutamyl transpeptidase activity, which was evident in some but not all cystic fibrosis amniotic fluids, could be corrected by mixing with either normal fluids or nondeficient cystic fibrosis fluids. Incubation of any amniotic fluid for 20 min at 62° C resulted in total loss of γ-glutamyl transpeptidase activity, but the activity could be restored by mixing with untreated nondeficient fluids. In contrast, no restoration could be obtained by mixing with untreated deficient cystic fibrosis fluids. Dialysis of amniotic fluids did not diminish their corrective capacity. Only the transpeptidation reaction was corrected and no correction was observed for the hydrolysis or autotranspeptidation of γ-glutamyl p-nitroanilide in the absence of the glycylglycine or methionine acceptor. Plasma specimens did not have any corrective activity, although their γ-glutamyl transpeptidase activity could be restored after heat inactivation by mixing with untreated nondeficient amniotic fluids. No correction was found for aminopeptidase or disaccharidase activities. These findings suggest that the deficient cystic fibrosis amniotic fluids probably contain normal quantities of the γ-glutamyl transpeptidase enzyme but lack a heat-labile nondialyzable activator that is necessary for its transpeptidation catalytic performance. An assay for this transpeptidase activator may provide a valuable approach to identify at least a subgroup of cystic fibrosis patients.
Full and reduced-order observer design for discrete stochastic bilinear systems

The author considers a general discrete-time stochastic bilinear system model and derives the mean square optimal linear unbiased observer equations to be used in reconstructing a prespecified linear combination of state variables based on noisy output measurements. >
Design considerations for trapezoid-shaped Frisch-grid semiconductor radiation detectors

Measurements with 60 keV gamma-rays from a 241Am check source show that most of the volume of a trapezoidal Frisch grid device is active and operates as a detector. Measurements were performed on a trapezoidal device constructed from 'counter grade' CdZnTe material, which despite the lower quality of the starting material still demonstrated excellent energy resolution at relatively high gamma ray energies. The energy resolution was comprised at low energies, most likely due to surface effects and material non-uniformities. Models indicate that performance can be improved with very straightforward and simple design changes.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
High-Fidelity or Low-Fidelity, Paper or Computer? Choosing Attributes when Testing Web Prototypes:

Interface designs are currently tested in a mixture of fidelities and media. So far, there is insufficient research to indicate what level of fidelity and media will produce the best feedback from ...
Quantifying Aggregation of IgE-FcϵRI by Multivalent Antigen

Aggregation of cell surface receptors by multivalent ligand can trigger a variety of cellular responses. A well-studied receptor that responds to aggregation is the high affinity receptor for IgE (FcepsilonRI), which is responsible for initiating allergic reactions. To quantify antigen-induced aggregation of IgE-FcepsilonRI complexes, we have developed a method based on multiparameter flow cytometry to monitor both occupancy of surface IgE combining sites and association of antigen with the cell surface. The number of bound IgE combining sites in excess of the number of bound antigens, the number of bridges between receptors, provides a quantitative measure of IgE-FcepsilonRI aggregation. We demonstrate our method by using it to study the equilibrium binding of a haptenated fluorescent protein, 2,4-dinitrophenol-coupled B-phycoerythrin (DNP25-PE), to fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled anti-DNP IgE on the surface of rat basophilic leukemia cells. The results, which we analyze with the aid of a mathematical model, indicate how IgE-FcepsilonRI aggregation depends on the total concentrations of DNP25-PE and surface IgE. As expected, we find that maximal aggregation occurs at an optimal antigen concentration. We also find that aggregation varies qualitatively with the total concentration of surface IgE as predicted by an earlier theoretical analysis.
A perspective of OSI standardization: object-oriented architecture for distributed processing

Abstract After more than ten years of efforts, OSI has become real. Many service and protocol standards had been developed based on a single “communication” architecture, known as OSI Basic Reference Model. Now, the focus in ISO/IEC JTC 1/SC 21 is the development of a “distributed processing” architecture, a long-term project known as Reference Model of Open Distributed Processing. This paper presents a perspective of the OSI standardization based on an object-oriented approach for distributed application processing.
Increased erythropoietin elimination in fetal sheep following chronic phlebotomy.

Purpose To determine by pharmacokinetic (PK) means the role of erythropoietin-receptor (EPO-R) upregulation in fetuses on the elimination of erythropoietin (EPO).
Effect of Alkyl Derivatization on Several Properties of N-Halamine Antimicrobial Siloxane Coatings

Variation of alkyl substitution at position 5 on the hydantoin ring of a series of N-halamine siloxane derivatives has been employed to better understand the biocidal activities of these compounds for use in preparing antimicrobial coatings. The alkyl derivatization of the hydantoin ring at its 5 position, while an essentially constant chlorine loading is maintained at the 1 position, has shown that there is little dependence of the antimicrobial efficacy against Escherichia coli O157:H7 on the alkyl chain length, in contrast to reported observations for biocidal quaternary ammonium salt derivatives. The stabilities of the derivatives toward hydrolyses and ultraviolet light exposure have also been found to not be dependent upon the nature of the alkyl substituent group. These observations led to the conclusion that the 5,5-dimethyl derivative would be recommended for use, since it is the least expensive alternative.
Monoamines in the dorsomedial hypothalamus of rats following exposure to different tests of 'anxiety'

1. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to the fear-potentiated startle, elevated plus-maze and social interaction tests and the levels of norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin in the dorsomedial hypothalamus were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. 2. Only rats subjected to the full fear potentiated startle test and not the other tests of anxiety or components (foot shocks or acoustic startle) of fear-potentiated startle showed significant increases in norepinephrine and dopamine levels after 24 hours. 3. A time course experiment specific for the norepinephrine changes in the dorsomedial hypothalamus of fear-potentiated startle rats revealed a significant increase in tissue content as compared to controls at both the 12 and 24 hour post-test time points. 4. Tyrosine hydroxylase activity in the dorsomedial hypothalamus of the fear-potentiated startle rats did not show a significant change from controls. 5. An in vitro release study found a significant decrease in potassium-stimulated release of norepinephrine in the dorsomedial hypothalamus as compared to controls at 24 hours post-test. 6. These results suggest that animals exposed to fear-potentiated startle and not other tests of "anxiety" have a change in tissue catecholamine levels and that the norepinephrine change may be the result of a decrease in release and not an increase in synthesis.
Endocytosis is regulated by protein kinase A, but not protein kinase C in a secretory epithelial cell line

Endocytosis in the chloride secreting epithelial cell line T84 was monitored by uptake of the fluid-phase markers FITC-dextran and horseradish peroxidase (HRP). Uptake of marker was inhibited by incubation of cells at 4°C, consistent with an endocytic uptake. Although activation of the cAMP-dependent second messenger pathway has been shown to stimulate exocytosis in this cell line, it caused a 63% reduction in endocytosis as measured by uptake of fluid-phase markers. In contrast, the presence of the protein kinase C activator phorbol-myristate acetate (PMA) caused no significant reduction in the level of endocytosis compared to control, nor did it reverse the inhibitory effect of PKA activation. The data thus suggest that endocytosis in T84 cells is regulated through activation of protein kinase A, but not through activation of protein kinase C.
Evaluations of Outcome Sequences.

We extend the literature on intertemporal choice by investigating how possession of knowledge related to the present value of future outcomes (PV knowledge) affects the extent to which individuals weight certain attributes when evaluating outcome sequences. While PV-knowledgeable individuals can ascribe value to attributes according to their PV relevance (or irrelevance), unknowledgeable individuals cannot do so. Such knowledge, therefore, likely interacts with outcome-sequence attributes to affect the extent to which individuals exhibit impatience when evaluating outcome sequences. The main experimental findings indicate that higher PV knowledge increases the extent to which individuals value impatience (as opposed to improvement). However, these findings also reinforce a need to distinguish among impatience, improvement, and PV because some higher PV knowledge participants willingly sacrifice PV while exhibiting impatience (while others do so in order to gain improvement). Overall, PV considerations appear central, but not determinative, in higher PV-knowledgeable individuals' evaluations of outcome sequences.
Post-cesarean section pain secondary to intussuscepting colonic adenocarcinoma

The differential diagnosis for lower abdominal and pelvic pain following Cesarean section includes many causes, such as endometritis, abscess, pelvic hematoma, wound complications, pelvic vein thrombophlebitis, gastrointestinal dysfunction and obstruction. Colonic obstruction secondary to intussusception is a rare cause. We present a case of post-Cesarean section pain in a 26-year-old patient due to obstructing colonic intussusception secondary to colonic adenocarcinoma. Review of the literature failed to identify a previous case report of colonic adenocarcinoma with intussusception presenting early in the postpartum period. The diagnosis was initially made by ultrasound, and later corroborated by computed tomography, barium enema and laparotomy.
Controlled Reduction of the Acid Site Density of SAPO-34 Molecular Sieve by Means of Silanation and Disilanation

SAPO-34 has been modified by silanation and disilanation reactions. The acidic properties of these modified SAPOs have been characterized by IR measurements. The bands of the bridging hydroxyls at 3600 and 3625 cm-1 show a gradual decrease in intensity with increasing silane or disilane loading. The band intensity of the P−OH group at 3675 cm-1 remains unaffected. The silanation process can be monitored (i) spectroscopically through the characteristic IR band of Si−H at 2250 cm-1 and (ii) analytically by the changes in the H2/SiH4 ratio during the modification. CD3CN has been used as an IR spectroscopic probe to elucidate the changes in Bronsted and Lewis acidity of the modified SAPO-34. The intensity of the C⋮N absorption band at 2320 cm-1, which is attributed to CD3CN adsorbed on Lewis acid sites, increases relative to the band at 2290 cm-1 (Bronsted acidity). This indicates that Bronsted acid sites are irreversibly transformed into Lewis acid sites after silanation reactions on the SAPO-34. 1H and 29Si...
Doing the Public's Business: Florida's Purge of Gay and Lesbian Teachers, 1959–1964

Abstract A decade after Kinsey published his famous studies on sexuality, a special legislative committee in Florida targeted gay and lesbian teachers in an investigation that led to the dismissal and loss of credentials for scores of educators. The Florida purge of 1959–1964 remains without parallel in educational history in terms of its intensity and scope. This historical analysis traces the actions of the legislative committee, the State Department of Education, the Florida Education Association, and the Florida Supreme Court in pressing discrimination against gay and lesbian teachers into law as the locus of oppression shifted from a renegade legislative committee to a permanent state institution. Homosexuality is not an illness like chickenpox—you cannot see it by looking into another person's face …. The revocation of a teaching certificate is the public's business …. The presence of even one homosexual teacher in our schools is not to be tolerated. (Bailey 1961, 2–3)
A Preconditioned Hierarchical Algorithm for Impedance Extraction of Interconnects in Packages

This algorithm is based on the boundary element method, accelerated by the hierarchical data structure and efficient pre-conditioning through sparsification. It is the first kernel independent BEM algorithm for impedance extraction, and also the first to use efficient preconditioners for impedance extraction. As a result, this algorithm is much faster than previous algorithms for both uniform and multilayer dielectric. Experimental results also show the extracted impedance is very accurate compared with FastImp.
LC–MS method for the estimation of Δ8-THC and 11-nor-Δ8-THC-9-COOH in plasma

The aim of the present study was to develop a simple and sensitive LC-MS method for the estimation of delta8-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta8-THC) and its metabolite, 11-nor-delta8-tetrahydrocannabinol-9-carboxylic acid (11-nor-delta8-THC-9-COOH), in guinea pig plasma after topical drug application. The plasma samples were analyzed by LC-MS using negative-mode electrospray ionization detection and a simple liquid-liquid extraction technique. The mean recoveries for delta8-THC and its metabolite, 11-nor-delta8-THC-9-COOH, were 96.6 and 88.2%, respectively. The lower limits of quantification (LLOQ) for delta8-THC and 11-nor-delta8-THC-9-COOH were 3.97 and 7.26 nM, respectively. The topical treatment steady-state plasma concentrations of delta8-THC and 11-nor-delta8-THC-9-COOH were 8.24-27.63 and 19.66-23.17 nM, respectively, with a lag period of 0.3-2.2 h. This assay method is selective, sensitive, and reproducible for the determination of delta8-THC and 11-nor-delta8-THC-9-COOH at low concentrations in small volumes of plasma.
The Campus Courier Service: Campus Delivery of Books and Journals at Auburn University

The Auburn University Libraries Campus Courier Service, a campus delivery service, allows Auburn University faculty, staff, and graduate students to have bound journals and books delivered to their offices located on the main campus and at the two branch libraries. This service is available free of charge to eligible users. This article presents an overview of the service by describing its structure and usage. It is hoped that the knowledge of the current usage of this service could help the Auburn University Libraries plan informed liaison activities, collection development, and further growth and promotion of the service. An analysis of current usage statistics provides some baseline data for future comparisons with peer institutions and for strategic planning at Auburn.
Optimal operation of baker's yeast fermentation in the presence of uncertainty

In this paper, we consider the problem of determining the optimal feeding policy for a fed-batch fermentation for the production of baker's yeast in the presence of uncertainty. Two algorithms are discussed for computing the optimal solution in the presence of uncertainty. The first method is a measurement-based closed-loop approach where process measurements are utilized to make on-line adjustments to the optimization routine. The second method is a simulator-based open-loop approach where simulations are run assuming various operating policies, and utilizing the simulator as if it were the real process. These two methods are implemented on a baker's yeast fermentation with uncertain parameters, and it is shown that both approaches lead to improved performance over the conventional open-loop operation. Copyright © 2006 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The applicability of polyphenolic data to systematic problems in the lemnaceae

Abstract In 1966 the author published a chemotaxonomic study of the Lemnaceae (McClure and Alston, 1966) wherein it was concluded that the flavonoid chemistry of axenically cultured clones was conclusive for the identification of morphologically-integrading taxa. Subsequent work on lignification characteristics in this family (Blazey and McClure, 1968) supported this distinctiveness. Physiological studies (McClure, 1968) indicate that the reliability of flavonoid accumulation under various conditions is strongly dependent on light. This work is reviewed and intercalated with additional studies of environmental effects on Lemnaceae flavonoid accumulation. The application of polyphenolic data to taxonomic problems in the morphologically similar species Lemna gibba L., L. obscura Daubs and L. minor L. is discussed. Regulation studies center around Spirodela species which have the most diverse flavonoid chemistry within this family. An attempt is made to evaluate the systematic significance of polyphenolic accumulation patterns within the Lemnaceae in terms of our current understanding of the biochemistry, physiology, and biological functions of these compounds.
ADENOSINE ON MYOCARDIAL OXYGEN CONSUMPTION

1 A 3 min intracoronary infusion of adenosine (50 mug/min) produced a significant decrease in coronary artery perfusion pressure, left ventricular systolic pressure and myocardial O2 consumption in the isolated supported heart preparation of the dog perfused at a constant coronary blood flow. Heart rate was controlled at 150, 190 or 230 beats/minute. 2 Myocardial contractile force and maximal left ventricular dp/dt were not changed by adenosine infusion. 3 The absolute decrease in myocardial O2 consumption was greater at increasing heart rates whereas the decrease in coronary artery perfusion pressure and peak left ventricular systolic pressure were similar. 4 The results suggest that the reduction in myocardial O2 consumption produced by adenosine is not related to coronary vasodilatation or to a negative chronotropic or inotropic action, but may be due to a functional shunting of blood flow from high O2 extracting regions of the myocardium to low O2 extracting ones and/or important effects on myocardial substrate utilization.
Ets factors and a newly identified polymorphism regulate Fli1 promoter activity in lymphocytes

Fli1 is an Ets family member that is essential for embryonic development. Increasing evidence suggests modulating Fli1 gene expression impacts lymphocyte development/function and is an important mediator in the autoimmune disease lupus. Fli1 is over-expressed in splenic lymphocytes in lupus prone mouse strains and in PBMCs of lupus patients. Presently, it is unknown how Fli1 gene expression is controlled in lymphocytes or how it becomes over-expressed in lupus. Therefore, we examined Fli1 regulation in a murine B cell line and T cell line and identified several cis-regulatory elements within a 230 bp region that contribute to Fli1 promoter activity. Ets factors Elf1, Tel and Fli1 bind in vitro to this region and increase endogenous Fli1 expression when over-expressed in a T cell line. In addition, we determined that a microsatellite located adjacent to the region containing these cis-regulatory elements is polymorphic in three lupus prone mouse strains and that the length of the microsatellite is inversely correlated with promoter activity in a T cell line. These results suggest that several Ets factors, including Fli1 itself, are involved in the transcriptional regulation of Fli1 in lymphocytes. Furthermore, the presence of a polymorphic microsatellite in the Fli1 promoter may contribute to increased Fli1 expression in T cells during lupus disease progression.
Prolonged survival of a patient with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2b and stage IV medullary thyroid carcinoma.

Objective: To present a case of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2B (MEN2B) with a prolonged course. Methods: We describe the clinical, laboratory, and radiologic findings in a patient with MEN2B and review the various interventions during a period of approximately 3 decades. Results: In 1962, a 19-year-old man with a marfanoid body habitus presented with multiple thyroid nodules and neurofibromas of the tongue. Total thyroidectomy demonstrated multicentric medullary thyroid carcinoma with cervical lymph node metastatic involvement. At the time of the first description of the MEN2B syndrome, the patient was enrolled in a surveillance program. An increase in urinary metanephrines resulted in bilateral adrenalectomy for multinodular pheochromocytoma in 1972. Increased serum calcitonin levels and the appearance of cervical lymphadenopathy led to modified radical neck dissection 12 years after the initial diagnosis of medullary thyroid carcinoma. In 1975, angiography revealed extensive hepatic lesions metast...
Ca2+ binding and translocation by the sarcoplasmic reticulum ATPase: functional and structural considerations.

Three experimental systems are described including sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) vesicles, reconstituted proteoliposomes, and recombinant protein obtained by gene transfer and expression in foreign cells. It is shown that the Ca2+ ATPase of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) includes an extramembranous globular head which is connected through a stalk to a membrane bound region. Cooperative binding of two calcium ions occurs sequentially, within a channel formed by four clustered helices within the membrane bound region. Destabilization of the helical cluster is produced following enzyme phosphorylation by ATP at the catalytic site in the extramembranous region. The affinity and orientation of the Ca2+ binding site are thereby changed, permitting vectorial dissociation of bound Ca2+ against a concentration gradient. A long range linkage between phosphorylation and Ca2+ binding sites is provided by an intervening peptide segment that retains high homology in cation transport ATPases, and whose function is highly sensitive to mutational perturbations.
Clonal analysis of HLA-DPw1 (SB1) associated alllodeterminants: Recognition of novel epitopes and evidence for quantitative variation in class II antigen expression

Abstract Alloreactive human T-lymphocyte clones were derived from the SB1 (HLA-DPw1)-specific, primed lymphocyte typing cell line SB1A used in the Ninth International Histocompatibility Workshop. The clones from two separate subclonings were analyzed for their proliferative patterns in panel experiments with cells from unrelated individuals and in family segregation analyses. While only one clone gave a perfect correlation with the DPw1 specificity, the majority of clones recognized multiple specificities apparently associated with but not identical to HLA-DPw1. Most clones defined “splits” or subsets of DPw1 and some also displayed “extra” reactions with DPw1-negative stimulator cells. Further evidence was also found that, of the molecules bearing epitopic subsets associated with DPw1, some may be selectively expressed on the cell surface whereas the surface density of other DPw1-associated antigens may be varied. Thus, the HLA-DP region appears to encode a complex array of alloantigens and is in this regard similar to the HLA-DR region.
Transmission of the Great Depression

To a first approximation, the question of how the Great Depression spread from country to country is short and straightforward: fixed exchange rates under the gold standard transmitted negative demand shocks. The first half of this paper consequently will describe current thinking about the relationship between the gold standard and the Great Depression. The second half of the paper will look at a phenomenon not included in this first approximation: financial crises. Many have noted that banking panics and currency crises are bad for national economies, but few have tried to model their international spread.
Mechanistic and structural studies of H373Q flavocytochrome b2: effects of mutating the active site base.

His373 in flavocytochrome b2 has been proposed to act as an active site base during the oxidation of lactate to pyruvate, most likely by removing the lactate hydroxyl proton. The effects of mutating this residue to glutamine have been determined to provide further insight into its role. The kcat and kcat/Klactate values for the mutant protein are 3 to 4 orders of magnitude smaller than the wild-type values, consistent with a critical role for His373. Similar effects are seen when the mutation is incorporated into the isolated flavin domain of the enzyme, narrowing the effects to lactate oxidation rather than subsequent electron transfers. The decrease of 3500-fold in the rate constant for reduction of the enzyme-bound FMN by lactate confirms this part of the reaction as that most effected by the mutation. The primary deuterium and solvent kinetic isotope effects for the mutant enzyme are significantly smaller than the wild-type values, establishing that bond cleavage steps are less rate-limiting in H373Q ...
Managing bandwidth in ATM networks with bursty traffic

Three approaches to the bandwidth management problem that have been proposed and studied by various groups are reviewed to illustrate three distinctly different approaches and identify their strengths and weaknesses. Based on these approaches, a bandwidth management and congestion control scheme for asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) networks that supports both point-to-point and one-to-many multicast virtual circuits is proposed. It is shown that the method can handle fully heterogeneous traffic and can be effectively implemented. The algorithm for making virtual circuit acceptance decisions is straightforward and fast, and the hardware mechanisms needed to implement buffer allocation and traffic monitoring at the user-network interface have acceptable complexities. It is also shown, through numerical examples, that the approach can achieve reasonable link efficiencies even in the presence of very bursty traffic. No advance reservation required, simplifying the interface between the network and the user and avoiding an initial network round trip delay before data can be transmitted. >
Synthesis and Evaluation of Tripodal Peptide Analogues for Cellular Delivery of Phosphopeptides

Tripodal peptide analogues were designed on the basis of the phosphotyrosine binding pocket of the Src SH2 domain and assayed for their ability to bind to fluorescein-labeled phosphopeptides. Fluorescence polarization assays showed that a number of amphipathic linear peptide analogues (LPAs), such as LPA4, bind to fluorescein-labeled GpYEEI (F-GpYEEI). LPA4 was evaluated for potential application in cellular delivery of phosphopeptides. Fluorescence microimaging cellular uptake studies with fluorescein-attached LPA4 (F-LPA4) alone or with the mixture of LPA4 and F-GpYEEI in BT-20 cells showed dramatic increase of the fluorescence intensity in cytosol of cells, indicating that LPA4 can function as a delivery tool of F-GpYEEI across the cell membrane. Fluorescent flow cytometry studies showed the cellular uptake of F-LPA4 in an energy-independent pathway and confirmed the cellular uptake of F-GpYEEI in the presence of LPA4. These studies suggest that amphipathic tripodal peptide analogues, such as LPA4, can be used for cellular delivery of phosphopeptides.
Symmetric Green's functions for certain hyperbolic problems

Abstract The problems associated with a hyperbolic partial differential operator are usually posed as initial value problems. However, it is possible to view a certain class of problems as boundary value problems, and thus make use of the techniques generally reserved for problems associated with elliptic operators. In the process, some additional “boundary conditions” along the characteristics will be introduced, in order to guarantee a unique solution. In this paper, the Conjugate Point Problem and the Focal Point Problem are studied on a characteristics triangle domain. The criteria for the existence of a Green's function are established, and some additional conditions are derived. The Green's functions for several examples are then constructed by following the prescribed method, and the method is analyzed to determine the most general type of problem to which it can be extended. The method is then generalized to problems with a different domain.
Polyglutamine Proteins at the Pathogenic Threshold Display Neuron-Specific Aggregation in a Pan-Neuronal Caenorhabditis elegans Model

The basis of neuron-specific pathogenesis, resulting from the expression of misfolded proteins, is poorly understood and of central importance to an understanding of the cell-type specificity of neurodegenerative disease. In this study, we developed a new model for neuron-specific polyQ pathogenesis in Caenorhabditis elegans by pan-neuronal expression that exhibits polyQ length-dependent aggregation, neurotoxicity, and a pathogenic threshold at a length of 35–40 glutamines. Analysis of specific neurons in C. elegans revealed that only at the threshold length, but not at shorter or longer lengths, polyQ proteins can exist in a soluble state in certain lateral neurons or in an aggregated state in motor neurons of the same animal. These results provide direct experimental evidence that the expression of a single species of a toxic misfolded protein can exhibit a range of neuronal consequences.