cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Growth arrest and DNA-damage-inducible, beta (GADD45b)-mediated DNA demethylation in major psychosis

Aberrant neocortical DNA methylation has been suggested to be a pathophysiological contributor to psychotic disorders. Recently, a growth arrest and DNA-damage-inducible, beta (GADD45b) protein-coordinated DNA demethylation pathway, utilizing cytidine deaminases and thymidine glycosylases, has been identified in the brain. We measured expression of several members of this pathway in parietal cortical samples from the Stanley Foundation Neuropathology Consortium (SFNC) cohort. We find an increase in GADD45b mRNA and protein in patients with psychosis. In immunohistochemistry experiments using samples from the Harvard Brain Tissue Resource Center, we report an increased number of GADD45b-stained cells in prefrontal cortical layers II, III, and V in psychotic patients. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor IX (BDNF IXabcd) was selected as a readout gene to determine the effects of GADD45b expression and promoter binding. We find that there is less GADD45b binding to the BDNF IXabcd promoter in psychotic subjects. Further, there is reduced BDNF IXabcd mRNA expression, and an increase in 5-methylcytosine and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine at its promoter. On the basis of these results, we conclude that GADD45b may be increased in psychosis compensatory to its inability to access gene promoter regions.
The B subunit of a rat heteromeric CCAAT-binding transcription factor shows a striking sequence identity with the yeast Hap2 transcription factor.

Abstract CBF is a heteromeric mammalian transcription factor that binds to CCAAT sequences in a number of promoters such as the two type I collagen promoters, the albumin promoter, the major histocompatibility complex class II promoter, and others. It is composed of two components, A and B, that are both needed for DNA binding. We have isolated a rat cDNA containing the complete 341-amino acid coding sequence of the B component of CBF. Expression of this cDNA in vitro generates a polypeptide that shows the same dependency on the A component as the native B component in the formation of a complex with a CCAAT-containing DNA. The C-terminal portion of the B component from residue 260 to residue 312 shows a 75% sequence identity with a portion of the Hap2 protein, a component of a heteromeric CCAAT-binding protein in yeast. In contrast, the rest of the protein shows little sequence homology with Hap2, although both proteins contain glutamine-rich domains. In the B component of CBF this domain spans the amino-terminal 60% of the protein, whereas in Hap2 this domain is much smaller. Hence, only a few changes in one domain of this protein were tolerated during evolution between yeast and mammals, whereas the rest of the protein diverged much more extensively.
A monoclonal antibody to a zona pellucida-proteinase inhibitor binding component on murine spermatozoa

A monoclonal antibody, J-23, was produced to an epitope of a binding (acceptor) component on the plasma membrane in the acrosomal cap region of the mouse sperm head. The component binds a proteinase inhibitor of seminal vesicle origin at ejaculation and participates in the in vitro binding of capacitated sperm to the zona pellucida. The antibody, an IgM molecule, recognizes affinity purified acceptor, crude acceptor and whole sperm as determined by ELISA methodology. The antibody reacts with a 15,000 molecular weight component, the size previously determined for the acceptor, found in the supernatants of frozen-thawed cauda epididymal sperm. In addition, it binds to a 21,000 molecular weight component generated by mixing an excess of purified inhibitor (6400 daltons) with a crude acceptor preparation. J-23 binds to an epitope in the same region of the sperm head as does the inhibitor. This epitope becomes fully expressed during epididymal maturation and is found only in the lumen of epididymal tissues. Pretreating sperm with J-23 inhibits their ability to bind the inhibitor as well as the zona pellucida. Pretreating sperm with the inhibitor has little effect on the binding of J-23. These data indicate that J-23 recognizes an epitope on the acceptor but the epitope is not directly involved with inhibitor binding.
Wire layer geometry optimization using stochastic wire sampling

The variation of in-plane interconnect geometry (pitch and width) as a function of wiring level results in improved system level performance because the properties of each wiring layer may be tailored to the characteristic lengths of the wires allocated to it. Performance metrics such as interconnect functional yield, and power dissipation are well suited to layer-by-layer optimization since they are determined by geometrical properties integrated across the wiring layer. The cycle time of a circuit, on the other hand, is a poor candidate for geometry optimization because it may be determined by a single wire length allocated to a single wiring layer. This paper addresses this issue by combining a genetic algorithm for geometry optimization with stochastic sampling of the wires lengths used in determining the signal delay within a key circuit block. We present results on how the stability of the optimal cycle time geometries vary as a function of the stochastic variations inherent in the layout process.
New fermionic description of quantum spin liquid state.

A novel approach to S=1/2 antiferromagnets with strong quantum fluctuations based on the representation of spin-1/2 operators as bilinear forms of real (Majorana) fermions is suggested. This representation does not contain unphysical states and thus does not require the imposition of constraints on the fermionic Hilbert space. This property allows one to construct a simple and effective mean field theory of the spin liquid state. As an example illustrating the basic properties of this state I consider a model of Kondo lattice. It is shown that this model has a singlet ground state; elementary excitations have a spectral gap and are S=1 real (Majorana) fermions.
Blockade of parathyroid hormone-related protein prevents joint destruction and granuloma formation in streptococcal cell wall-induced arthritis.

Objective To determine whether parathyroid hormone–related protein (PTHrP), an interleukin-1β–inducible, bone-resorbing peptide that is produced in increasing amounts by the synovium in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), may play a role in the pathophysiology of joint destruction in RA. Methods PTHrP expression and the effect of PTHrP 1–34 neutralizing antibody on disease progression were tested in streptococcal cell wall (SCW)–induced arthritis, an animal model of RA. Results As has been reported in RA, while serum levels of PTHrP did not change during SCW-induced arthritis, PTHrP expression dramatically increased in the arthritic synovium. Treatment with PTHrP neutralizing antibody (versus control antibody) did not affect joint swelling in SCW-treated animals. However, PTHrP antibody significantly inhibited SCW-induced joint destruction, as measured by its ability to block increases in serum pyridinoline (a marker of cartilage and bone destruction), erosion of articular cartilage, decreases in femoral bone mineral density, and increases in the numbers of osteoclasts in eroded bone. Unexpectedly, granuloma formation at sites of SCW deposition in the liver and spleen was also inhibited by PTHrP antibody, an effect associated with significant decreases in the tissue influx of PTH/PTHrP receptor–positive neutrophils and in SCW-induced neutrophilia. In vitro, neutrophil chemotaxis was stimulated by PTHrP 1–34. Conclusion These findings suggest that PTHrP, consistent with its previously described osteolytic effects in metastatic bone disease, can also be an important mediator of joint destruction in inflammatory bone disorders, such as RA. Moreover, this study reveals heretofore unknown effects of PTHrP peptides on neutrophil function that could have important implications in the pathogenesis of inflammatory granulomatous disorders.
Introduction: Internal representations and parent-infant relationships

Infant mental health practitioners have continually striven to understand and to improve disordered parent-infant relationships. Recently, researchers have begun attempts to describe and study these relationships systematically. There is an increasing interest in the construction of internal representations as indices of how relationship patterns are carried internally and transmitted from parent to child. This special issue of the Infant Mental Health Journal presents theoretical and clinical perspectives on internal representations, as well as results from some preliminary empirical investigations. This new convergence of efforts among theoreticians, clinicians, and investigators may yield important advances in our efforts to capture the complexity and riches of parent-infant relationships and their disorders.
Simulation of ion velocity distributions in the magnetosheath

[1] A two-dimensional global hybrid simulation is carried out to study the ion velocity distributions in the dayside magnetosheath in the presence of a northward interplanetary magnetic field. In the simulation, the bow shock and the magnetosheath form self-consistently by the interaction between the solar wind and the geomagnetic field. Downstream of the quasi-perpendicular shock, the initial isotropic distribution of upstream ions first becomes an oval-shaped bi-Maxwellian distribution with the perpendicular temperature T⟂ greater than the parallel temperature T∥. These downstream ions are then found to evolve to a conic-like or D-shaped distribution in the high-latitude magnetosheath prior to the transmission into the magnetosphere. The presence of the D-shaped distribution is due to the adiabatic ion motion from the subsolar magnetosheath with a high magnetic field strength to high latitudes with a lower field, but not due to magnetic reconnection at the high-latitude magnetopause.
Fluorescence and Functional Measurements of Phospholamban Mutant Competition

Ca2+ cycling through the SR in muscle cells is largely controlled by the Ca-pump (SERCA). SERCA transports Ca2+ into the SR, allowing muscles to relax, and is inhibited by phospholamban (PLB) at submicromolar [Ca2+]. PLB inhibition can be relieved by adrenergic stimulation, leading to PLB phosphorylation. Heart Failure (HF), which contributes to 12% of US deaths, can be caused by a variety of genetic or environmental factors, but a common symptom is decreased SERCA activity. Several potential therapies for HF aim to increase SERCA activity, including overexpression of the enzyme via rAAV gene therapy. We are investigating the possibility of using LOF-PLB mutants (PLBM) as alternative gene therapy vectors to increase Ca-ATPase activity. We have used FRET and FLIM to measure quantitatively measure the ability of several PLBM to compete with WT-PLB to bind to SERCA and activate it. Experiments in living HEK cells examine the ability of PLBM to compete with WT-PLB, thus rescuing SERCA activity. Active human SERCA2a and WT-PLB, tagged with fluorescent proteins (e.g., CFP and YFP), are co-expressed in stable cell lines followed by transient co-expression with PLBM. The effects of PLBM on Ca-ATPase activity and FRET are measured to determine the mutant's ability to compete with PLBW, both physically and functionally. Optimal mutants are being tested in a rat model of heart failure.
Tobacco ribosomal DNA spacer element elevates Bowman–Birk inhibitor expression in tomato plants

Amplification promoting sequence (aps), from tobacco rDNA, was found to induce amplification and enhances the expression of heterologous genes, consequently increasing the expression of transgenic proteins in tobacco. In this report we demonstrate that aps element also affects integration, transcription, and translation of a soybean protease inhibitor, Bowman-Birk inhibitor (BBI), in transgenic tomato plants and quantifies its effects in different expression vectors. A synthetic bbi gene was constructed, based on the wild-type gene containing two independent inhibition sites; trypsin and chymotrypsin. Transformation vectors were designed using two different promoters; the tomato fruit specific E8 promoter and the constitutively active 35S CaMV promoter. These vectors were transformed into 'Moneymaker' tomato plants. In tomato fruits and leaves, aps caused a 3-fold increase in bbi mRNA levels when compared to the lines without aps. Similar increases were obtained in plants expressing bbi controlled by E8 or 35S CaMV promoters. Also, the level of BBI protein expression in aps-transformed plants was 3 fold-higher than in plants without aps. This is the first report of aps effect on the enhanced gene expression and transgenic protein production in plant other than tobacco.
Supportive When Not Supported? Male Responses to Negative Climates for Women

This study examined the relationship between perceived climate for women and job satisfaction in a male-dominated context, focusing on moderating variables which may augment or decrease this relationship for men. Specifically, it was predicted that job satisfaction will be lower for women and men in a male-dominated context when they perceive a negative climate for women, but that this relationship will be moderated for men based on the levels of support and exclusion they experience. Using a sample of 239 (75.7% male) professors, staff, graduate assistants, and undergraduate assistants in a male-dominated science department of a large Midwestern university, we found that perceptions of a negative climate for women were significantly related to lower reports of job satisfaction for both women and men. However, perceived organizational support moderated this relationship, such that the job satisfaction of men who felt highly supported by the organization were unaffected by the perceived climate for women. Discussion and implications of results are included.
Sensitization of human colon cancer cells to TRAIL-mediated apoptosis☆☆☆

TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL), a novel member of the tumor necrosis factor (TMF) family, is thought to induce apoptosis preferentially in cancer cells; however, increasing evidence suggests that a number of cancers are resistant to TRAIL treatment. FLICE-like inhibitory protein (FLIP), which structurally resembles caspase-8, can act as an inhibitor of apoptosis when expressed at high levels in certain cancer cells. The purpose of our present study was to determine whether human colon cancer cells are sensitive to TRAIL treatment and, if not, to identify potential mechanisms of resistance. Colon cancer cells of different metastatic potential (KMlZC, KML4A, and KM20) were found to be resistant to the effects of TRAIL when used as a single agent. FLIP expression levels were increased in all three KM cell lines. Treatment with either actinomycin D (Act D;10 μ/ml) or cycloheximide (CHX; 10 μg/ml) decreased FLIP expression levels in all three cell lines. The decrease in cellular levels of FLIP was associated with sensitization to TRAIL-mediated apoptosis, as demonstrated by enhanced cell death and caspase-3 activity compared with either Act D or CHX alone. Our findings suggest that reduction of FLIP levels by Act D or CHX renders TRAIL-resistant human colon cancer cells sensitive to TRAIL-mediated apoptosis. The combination of TRAIL along with agents such as Act D or CHX, which target proteins that prevent cell death, may provide a more effective and less toxic regimen for treatment of resistant colon cancers.
Redesigning Women: Television after the Network Era

Lotz, A. (2006). Redesigning Women: Television after the Network Era. Urbana and Chicago: University of Illinois Press. 224 pages. Even to the casual channel surfer, it seems there are not only mor...
Muonium Dynamics in Semiconductors

Investigations of the dynamics of muonium transitions in semiconductors using RF-μSR and longitudinal depolarization measurements are described. Results for intrinsic and doped Si allow development of an essentially complete model for the Mu dynamics. Energy barriers are compared with the few available measurements for H in Si. In intrinsic and p-type samples three states, Mu 0 BC , Mu 0 T , and Mu + BC are active and at high temperatures a rapid cycle among all three states is identified. In n-type samples the Mu - T state becomes important and numerous additional transitions become active. Parameters are extracted for seven separate transition processes and features associated with several additional ones are identified. Preliminary data for other materials are also briefly discussed.
Histochemical evidence of a functional heterogeneity of the chondrocytes of adult canine articular cartilage.

Twenty humeral heads were collected from 10 adult English Pointer dogs, fixed in 15% formalin containing cetylpyridinium chloride, decalcified, processed for paraffin sections, and cut serially. The articular cartilage was studied by staining principally with Alcian Blue in the presence of 0.4 or 0.9m MgCl2 with and without a van Gieson counterstain. The results of the differential staining procedures demonstrated the existence of two groups of chondrocytes with distinctly different staining affinities. One group reacted intensely for the presence of protein-polysaccharides within its cytoplasm while the other group completely lacked this property. An approximate proportionality of 3∶1 of the protein polysaccharide-positive and-negative chondrocytes was observed in the tangential layer and upper intermediate zone. In the lower intermediate zone, radiate zone, and zone of calcified cartilage, the chondrocyte types were present in equal proportions. Staining with Alcian Blue in the presence of 0.9m MgCl2 with and without a van Gieson counterstain indicated a further subdivision of the protein-polysaccharide positive group of chondrocytes. This blocking technique has been reported to distinguish between chondroitin sulphate and high mol. wt. keratosulphate. Thus, based upon a greatly decreased number of the blue-stained chondrocytes after staining with Alcian Blue in the presence of 0.9m MgCl2 the hypothesis is put forward that some chondrocytes produce primarily chondroitin suphate and others produce both chondroitin sulphate and keratosulphate.
Phase II of the Small Main-Belt Asteroid Spectroscopic Survey: The Observations

Abstract We present visible-wavelength (0.435–0.925 μm) spectroscopic measurements for 1341 main-belt asteroids observed during the second phase of the Small Main-belt Asteroid Spectroscopic Survey (SMASSII). The purpose of this survey is to provide a new basis for studying the compositional structure of the asteroid belt. Through the large sample size and the relatively high spectral resolution (R∼100) of the SMASSII data, we find that values of the spectral parameters describing these data form more of a continuum than previously realized. Objects with intermediate spectral characteristics are bridging gaps that once separated distinct spectral classes. In some cases, newly revealed small-scale spectral features may be indicative of previously unrecognized mineral constituents. Here we present the data and principal component analyses that describe the SMASSII spectra. A companion paper utilizes these principal component scores, along with other measures of the spectral features, to develop a new taxonomy that takes advantage of the information contained within charge-coupled device spectra.
Cycles of life and death: narrative homology and archaeological realities

Egyptian data speak to modern interpreters in many ways; through the rich iconographic repertoire, the materiality of houses and tombs and through the vast corpus of writings left to us. At the New Kingdom village of Deir el Medina (c.1500-1100 BC) each of these data sets is available and can be used dialectically to gain a more intimate knowledge of lifecycles and individual life experience. Using excerpts from the documents and personal letters of the community I present the villagers' own narratives of life experience: pregnancy, birth, childhood, adolescence, adulthood, old age and death. These potent vignettes of life potentially have material correlates in the archaeology of the village - the individual houses and tombs which have remained in a remarkable state of preservation. For instance, the Eastern Necropolis at Deir el Medina is layered in terms of the lifecycle: neonates were buried at the base of the slope, followed by children and adolescents mid-slope and adults were buried at the high poi...
Emerging issues: nutritional awareness in environmental toxicology

Based on recent evidence, we hypothesize that nutrition can modulate the toxicity of environmental pollutants and thus modulate health and disease outcome associated with chemical insults. For example, certain dietary fats may increase the risk to environmental insult induced by polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and fruits and vegetables, rich in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutrients or bioactive compounds, may provide protection. Nutritional awareness in environmental toxicology is critical, because of opportunities to develop dietary guidelines which specifically target exposed populations. Nutrition may provide the most sensible means to develop primary prevention strategies of diseases associated with environmental toxicology.
Using schematic organizers to help college students organize personal concepts and behavior related to alcohol and cocaine use

Abstract The intent of this study was to assess the perceived effectiveness of using two types of schematic, graphic organizers — “maps” and “conceptual matrices” — to organize personal understanding of alcohol and cocaine behavior patterns and knowledge about reasons for and consequences of alcohol and cocaine use. Participants in this three-session, 6-hour study were 111 students from a private, southwestern university who were recruited from undergraduate psychology classes. Participants were randomly assigned to either “schema” (matrix/map) or “nonschema” (essay) conditions. The dependent measure, perceived usefulness of an activity, was defined in terms of three factors (use for personal insights, motivational aspects of an activity, and use for counseling purposes) and was assessed through a series of four postactivity questionnaires. Verbal ability was found to play an important role: map organizers for alcohol experiences were perceived as more useful than essay writing by below-median verbal ability participants. For organizing personal knowledge of reasons and consequences, essay writing was perceived as more useful. Possible trends were noted with respect to personality factors.
Effect of factors on RFID tag readability-statistical analysis

Radio frequency identification, or RFID, is a generic term for technologies that use radio waves to automatically identify individual items. This paper examines the effect of different factors such as distance to the tag from antenna, height and position of antenna, effect of metals, and interference from other sources on readability of the tag. Experiments were conducted and readings were taken to consider the effect of the factors to identify the critical ones that affects the readability of the tag. Design of Experiments (DOE) was used; specifically 2k factorial design and 2(k−1) fractional factorial designs were considered to determine which factor/s contributes to the variation of readability. In addition, combined effects of factors were also analyzed. SASTM software package was used to validate the data statistically. The two designs were compared and the best out of the two was chosen to develop a model. The developed model can be used to read the intensity of the tag (output) with 99.08% accuracy. Based on the analysis of the data we concluded that half fractional factorial design was the best fit for the experiment.
The effect of tetanic and post-tetanic potentiation on facilitation of transmitter release at the frog neuromuscular junction

1. End-plate potentials (e.p.p.s) were recorded from frog neuromuscular junctions blocked with high Mg and/or low Ca. 2. Estimates of f(t), the facilitation contributed by each impulse, were obtained during and following repetitive stimulation from the incremental change in e.p.p. amplitudes following step changes in the stimulation rate during the conditioning and testing trains. 3. Estimates of f(t) increased during the conditioning stimulation and returned to control in the post-tetanic period. This increase in f(t) was proportional to the magnitude of tetanic or post-tetanic potentiation (PTP) present. 4. These results are described by: [Formula: see text] where h(t)/hc is the e.p.p. amplitude at time t expressed in terms of the control, P(t) is potentiation, F(t) is facilitation and 1 is the base level of transmitter release. Thus, potentiation has a multiplicative (gain) effect on facilitation and the base level of transmitter release. 5. PTP was present immediately following the conditioning train. However, if depression occurred during the conditioning train, PTP developed after a delay. 6. It is suggested that facilitation and potentiation represent increases in two independent factors which act jointly to increase the probability of transmitter release.
Competitive equilibria in overlapping generations Experiments

The paper presents the results of four overlapping generations experiments performed at the California Institute of Technology. Overlapping generations markets were created in which each agent had a two period life span. With the exception of the first period, there were eight agents trading in each period; four buyers (two young and two old) and four sellers (two young and two old). Parameters were selected so that a “small” set of equilibria existed. The markets were open for twenty-nine periods with a demand shift occurring at the fifteenth and sixteenth periods.
Atorvastatin in the Treatment of Primary Hypercholesterolemia and Mixed Dyslipidemias

OBJECTIVE:To review the efficacy and safety of atorvastatin in the treatment of dyslipidemias.DATA SOURCES:A MEDLINE search (January 1960–April 1998), Current Contents search, additional references listed in articles, and unpublished data obtained from the manufacturer were used to identify data from scientific literature. Studies evaluating atorvastatin (i.e., abstracts, clinical trials, proceedings, data on file with the manufacturer) were considered for inclusion.STUDY SELECTION:English-language literature was reviewed to evaluate the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, therapeutic use, and adverse effects of atorvastatin. Additional relevant citations were used in the introductory material and discussion.DATA EXTRACTION:Open and controlled animal and human clinical studies published in the English-language literature were reviewed and evaluated. Clinical trials selected for inclusion were limited to those in human subjects and included data from animals if human data were not available.DATA SYNTHESIS:Ator...
Optical firing system

A complete packaged optical firing system was designed and fabricated to be used to trigger optical detonators. The system consists of a specially designed Nd:YAG laser operating at 1064 nm, attenuator module, and splitter module that divide the beam into multiple high power, and one low power channels. The beams are then focused into fibers to transmit the optical pulse to the optical detonators. The low power channel can be used for monitoring timing and/or energy. No active cooling is required since it is designed for low repetition rates. The system is designed to be rack mounted, requiring only 110 V AC power and rugged enough to be transported to various test sites without further alignment. One of the unique aspects of this system is the incorporation of numerous safety features to prevent accidental release of optical or electrical energy, mirroring safety themes required for electrical firing systems.
Stimulated secretion of esterified lipids and VLDL by perifused hepatocytes

This report describes a new method for investigation of hepatic metabolism by perifusion of medium through a batch of hepatocytes isolated from fed rats. Oxygenated medium flows by gravity through a hepatocyte-containing glass column that is immersed in 37 degrees C water bath. The effluent medium is then collected in consecutive aliquots in test tubes on ice. The pattern of export of esterified lipids, glucose, and VLDL by isolated liver cells into the perifusate was examined under both basal conditions and response to the infusion of certain metabolic stimulants. Perifusion of medium containing sodium clofibrate (1 mM and 10 mM levels) through lipid-prelabeled cells augmented the secretion of radioactive triacylglycerols that reached a maximal rate by about 30 min after exposure to this agent. Measurement of effluent glucose levels after perifusion of hepatocytes with media lacking glucose but containing a gluconeogenic precursor revealed steadily declining concentrations despite the addition of glucagon or epinephrine. Concomitantly, glycogen granules disappeared from the cytoplasm, but the cells retained intact ultrastructure after the course of perifusion. Protein-prelabeled hepatocytes released labeled VLDL into the perifusate, and this release was enhanced by prolonged exposure of the cells to medium containing palmitate (0.80 mM). The hepatocyte perifusion system thus offers a simple, reproducible method whereby hepatocellular secretory processes can be sequentially examined under carefully controlled basal and stimulated conditions.
Lessons Learned from the Viking Missions Which are Relevant to Mission to Planet Earth

The Viking missions to Mars (1976) were pioneering soft lander/orbiters to search for evidence of life, map the planet, and combine several measurements and observations to characterize the surface. The missions lasted on the surface over five years and involved the dedicated work of hundreds of scientists for over a decade (1968–83). This massive scientific and engineering undertaking was comprehensive and educated many about thinking holistically about the planets. From these thoughts about Mars (our sister planet) came a new view of the Earth, and this gave rise to Earth System Science, a recognized interdisciplinary field of study. Earth System Science is an approach to understanding how the physical-chemical-biological processes interact and influence each other. This permits an understanding of how the whole system works (as contrasted by the disciplinary nature of each individual field of research). This systems approach produces a strategy between observation and modeling that allows an understanding of the ”whole”, in the same way as systems engineering reveals the understanding of the ”black box” in counter distinction to a collection of individual engineering subsystems.
Disjunct Nocturnal Roosting by a Yellow-rumped Warbler (Setophaga coronata) during Migratory Stopover

ABSTRACT Nocturnal roosting at locations disjunct from daytime foraging areas (hereafter disjunct nocturnal roosting) is a common avian behavior on both the breeding and wintering grounds but to our knowledge has not been documented in arboreal passerines during migratory stopover. We report observations of a spring migrant Yellow-rumped Warbler (Setophaga coronata) commuting to a nocturnal roost site 2.6–3.2 km north from its 5.1–9.0 ha daytime home ranges on two consecutive stopover days. We discuss the potential significance of this behavior in terms of roost habitat type, predator avoidance, and thermoregulation. We encourage those conducting telemetry studies on stopover migrants to examine existing data and, when possible, to use tracking methods that advance understanding of the behavioral ecology of nocturnal roosting and the prevalence of and causes for disjunct roosting.
Towards a federal future

On 14 December 2000, the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, the US Environmental Protection Agency and the Institute for Alternative Futures cosponsored a roundtable meeting to discuss how federal agencies use scenarios and other futures analysis methods to achieve a long‐range perspective. Futures practitioners representing five federal agencies participated in the roundtable, which it is hoped will pave the way for a new Federal Futures Network.
Design and Analysis of LDPC Decoders for Software Defined Radio

Low Density Parity Check (LDPC) codes are one of the most promising error correction codes that are being adopted by many wireless standards. This paper presents a case study for a scalable LDPC decoder supporting multiple code rates and multiple block sizes on a software defined radio (SDR) platform. Since technology scaling alone is not sufficient for current SDR architectures to meet the requirements of the next generation wireless standards, this paper presents three techniques to improve the throughput performance. The techniques are use of data path accelerators, addition of memory units and addition of a few assembly instructions. The proposed LDPC decoder implementation achieved 30.4 Mbps decoding throughput for the n=2304 and R=5/6 LDPC code outlined in the IEEE 802.16e standard.
Do Age and Education Matter? Organizational Demography as an Influential Factor on Perceptions of a Learning Organization in Law Enforcement

Scholars and practitioners have identified many important factors that influence the development of a learning organization or employees’ perception of that organization as a learning organization. However, in The Bahamas, there have been few studies that have empirically examined whether employees' perceptions are influenced by their educational level or by their age. This study focused on the perceptions of law enforcement officers of their organization as a learning organization at individual, team and organizational levels. Additionally, the study examined whether the officers' perceptions are influenced by their educational level and age. A total of 290 participants were surveyed and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and ANOVAs. The results from the study revealed that the officers’ perceptions of the organization as promoting learning practices and cultures are neutral, revealing significant differences in their perceptions related to educational level.
Camouflaged Earnings Management

In recent years, there has been increased scrutiny of financial reporting, and analysts and investors have devoted more attention to indicators of potential earnings management, in particular, to cash and accruals relative to earnings and sales. We assert that, in response, firms have increased their focus on cash management aimed at aligning these variables, which has made the detection of earnings management more difficult. We define and develop indicators of camouflaged earnings management and use them empirically to test whether the alignment of cash and accruals with earnings and sales has intensified following the legislation of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. The empirical results are all in line with, and reinforce, our assertion. An interesting implication is that prior studies’ documented decrease in accrual-based earnings management post-SOX may have been the result of camouflaged earnings management, and not necessarily an actual decrease in accrual-based earnings management. Our findings also suggest that any comprehensive investigation of earnings management may benefit from considering the possibility of camouflaged earnings management.
Phenylation of PVC with triphenylaluminum and related model reactions

It was theorized that the heat stability of PVC may be improved by exchanging the “weak” (allylic and tertiary) chlorines by groups of higher bond strength, e.g., phenyl. Thus PVC was phenylated by ϕ3Al in carbon disulfide slurry for various times (1 to 5 hrs) and temperatures (from −30 to +45°C). The ϕ3Al concentration, temperature and time of ϕ3Al treatment greatly affect the ultimate heat stability of PVC. Significant improvement in the heat stability was obtained by treating PVC in carbon disulfide at 25°C for 1 hr. The mechanism of phenylation was studied by model experiments in which the possible structural irregularities in PVC were simulated by small molecule chlorine compounds, i.e., 3-chloro-1-butene, 1,3-dichloro-1-butene, 4-choro-2-pentene were models for terminal and inchain allylic chlorines, t-butyl chloride was the model for tertiary chlorine at branch site, and isopropyl chloride simulated regular secondary chlorines. The reactions between ϕ3Al and these chlorides were carried out at 35°C for various times and the NMR spectra were analyzed. The ϕ3Al + tBuCl reaction in carbon disulfide gives t-butylbenzene (Wurtz coupling) and isobutylene oligomers. Evidently ϕ3Al (or the ϕ2AlCl formed) dehydrochlorinates tBuCl to isobutylene which rapidly oligomerizes in the presence of Lewis acids. In aromatic diluents, i.e., benzene, chlorobenzene, and o-chlorotoluene, Friedel-Crafts t-butylation of the diluent occurs; in mesitylene t-butylation is absent presumably because of steric hindrance and small amounts of t-butylbenzene are formed by Wurtz coupling. All the allyl chlorides examined are rapidly phenylated by ϕ3Al in carbon disulfide at 35°C and yield the expected products: 3-chloro-1-butene → 1-phenyl-2-butene; 1,3-dichloro-1-butene → 1-chloro-3-phenyl-1-butene; 4-chloro-2-pentene → 4-phenyl-2-pentene. The kinetics of phenylation by ϕ3Al of model compounds have been studied and the following rate constants were obtained: kallyl = too fast to measure, ktBuCl = 1.0, and kiPrCl = 9 × 10−4 l/mole min. Evidently the rate of the ϕ3Al + RCl reaction is mainly determined by the stability of the R⊕ intermediate: substituted allylic⊕ ≫ tertiary⊕ ≫ secondary⊕.
Iron chlorosis, a world wide problem, the relation of chlorophyll biosynthesis to iron

Abstract Iron‐Chlorosis is a world‐wide problem, particularly in semi‐arid regions containing calcareous soils. Although most soils contain adequate total iron, the amount available to the plant is dependent on factors such as iron species and plant genotype. Iron is reduced to ferrous form at the root surface if necessary and transported to the leaf through the xylem in a combined form. In the leaf it is used for chlorophyll (Chl) formation as well as for the functioning of various iron‐containing enzymes. Chlorophyll is formed in higher plants from the precursor δ‐amino‐levulinic acid (ALA). This intermediate, ALA, functions for both heme and chlorophyll formation and may be formed through a primary biosynthesis pathway in higher plants requiring a 5‐carbon substrate, such as a ketoglutarate or glutamate. This pathway may be activated by iron, related to aconitase ativity and/or the formation of ferredoxin (Fd). Ferredoxin could be necessary to activate the ALA‐synthesizing enzyme. With plants that are ...
Small and medium enterprises and the mobile revolution: Looking forward

Mobile technologies offer new opportunities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). SMEs that develop a mobility strategy to prepare for the future are taking the first step to becoming "next-generation SMEs." This paper describes specific characteristics and advantages of next-generation small and medium enterprises, and highlights key issues and forward looking opportunities.
STUDIES ON THE PATHOGENESIS OF EXPERIMENTAL PNEUMOCOCCUS PNEUMONIA IN THE DOG : I. SECONDARY PULMONARY LESIONS. RELATIONSHIP OF BRONCHIAL OBSTRUCTION AND DISTRIBUTION OF PNEUMOCOCCI TO THEIR INCEPTION.

A study has been made of the mode of origin of the secondary lesions occurring spontaneously during the course of experimental pneumococcus pneumonia in the dog. It was observed that the primary lesions of dogs exhibiting interlobar spread contained much more edema fluid than did those in which the inflammatory process remained confined to a single lobe. Furthermore, the sequence of spread from lobe to lobe in relation to the anatomical arrangement of the bronchi and the prone position of the animal was such as to suggest that secondary lobe involvement arose as a result of edematous pneumonic exudate flowing into the more dependent bronchial openings. Experiments were undertaken to determine whether pneumococci are constantly being distributed throughout the lung in the experimental disease in varying degree yet produce secondary foci of consolidation only if the microorganisms reach the terminal airways and are retained there through some interference with the normal eliminatory mechanism. Attempts to produce secondary lesions in dogs with non-spreading single lobe involvement, by means of plugging a terminal bronchus of a normal lobe with starch paste or mucin were largely unsuccessful. In only three out of 19 instances did a lesion develop at the site of obstruction. An investigation was then made of the distribution of pneumococci in the lungs of dogs at the height of the pneumonia. In dogs with single lobe lesions pneumococci were recovered from the lesion itself but not from any other part of the peripheral lung tissue, whereas in animals showing spread to other lobes pneumococci were found to be distributed widely throughout the lung in both the apparently normal and the involved lobes. Some of the microscopic sections of the uninvolved parts of the lungs of dogs with metastatic lesions revealed small masses of pneumococcus-containing exudate in the smaller bronchi and terminal airways of otherwise normal tissue. This finding, in conjunction with the detection of beginning inflammatory changes in other areas normal in the gross, would seem to provide direct evidence of the manner in which pneumococci are transferred from the initial lesion to other lobes and highly presumptive evidence for the mode of origin of the secondary lesions.
IN SEARCH OF A NEW EQUILIBRIUM: ECONOMIC ASPECTS OF HIGHER EDUCATION'S CHANGING FACULTY COMPOSITION

Abstract This article examines the interconnected phenomena of recruitment, retention, and utilization of faculty at research universities, with special emphasis on the changing mix of tenure track and contingent (i.e., fixed term) faculty members. The authors argue, based upon both national data and detailed information from a particular institution, that powerful economic forces are prompting research universities to rethink fundamental strategies about the core academic workforce.
Effect of Theophylline and Adrenergic Blocking Drugs on the Renin Response to Norepinephrine In Vitro

The effects of norepinephrine, theophylline, and adrenergic blocking drugs on renin release from rat kidney slices were studied in vitro. l-Norepinephrine increased renin release into the incubation medium; this increase was accompanied by an increase in the renin content of the slices. Statistically significant increases in renin release were produced by 10-5M and 2 x 10-5M l-norepinephrine. d-Norepinephrine in the same doses was ineffective. Theophylline (10-3M) had no effect by itself, but it potentiated the effect of l-norepinephrine on renin release. The response to l-norepinephrine was markedly suppressed by l-propranolol (10-4M) but not by d-propranolol (10-4M). The α-receptor blocking agents phentolamine (10-4M) and phenoxybenzamine (10-4M) increased rather than decreased the effect of l-norepinephrine. These results are consistent with a direct intrarenal effect of norepinephrine on renin release; this effect appears to be mediated by a β-adrenergic mechanism.
Forced Merging in Traffic

A vehicle waiting at an intersection with a major road makes a merging maneuver into the mainstream traffic, thus possibly requiring oncoming traffic to slow down. This paper examines the resulting disturbance that this forced entry may create in the main stream, assumed to be a renewal process. After showing that the disturbance propagation is formally equivalent to the busy period of a related queuing model, explicit results on the length of disturbance period and the number of vehicles affected are obtained for the case of Poisson traffic. It is shown that there is some minimal main-stream headway which should be forced in order to maximize the rate at which entries can be made from the secondary road. Finally, two measures of accident potential for the merging maneuver are discussed.
Dietary fibre content of thirteen apple cultivars

Fibre composition of the following 13 apple cultivars was studied: 'Cortland', 'Empire', 'Fuji', 'Golden Delicious', 'Gala', 'Granny Smith', 'Jonagold', 'Mutsu', 'McIntosh', 'Delicious', 'Rome', 'Stayman' and 'York'. Fruit samples from each of these cultivars were analysed for non-starch cell wall materials (NSCWM) and non-starch polysaccharides (NSP). NSCWM was further fractionated into soluble and insoluble fibre fractions. Both NSCWM and NSP content were found to be significantly influenced by cultivar. NSCWM content ranged from 19.1 g kg -1 apple flesh in 'Fuji' to 36.2 g kg -1 in 'York'. Mean (± SD) NSCWM content of all the cultivars was 23.1 ± 45 g kg -1 . NSP content of apple flesh ranged from 13.8 g kg -1 in 'McIntosh' to 287 g kg -1 in 'York' with the overall mean for all cultivars being 17.9 ± 4.2 g kg -1 . Relative amount of monosaccharides found in the hydrolysates of apple fibre also varied among cultivars. The greatest difference was observed in galactose content.
Predictors of atypical squamous cell of undetermined significance cervical cytology with high-risk human papilloma virus genotypes

To investigate epidemiological factors that predicts high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) types among women with atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS). Case–control study of women with ASCUS and ‘reflex’ HR-HPV DNA test results at the Prentice Ambulatory Care (PAC) outpatient clinic, Northwestern University, Chicago, USA. Univariate analysis and logistic regression were done to generate measures of association between various epidemiological variables and positive HR-HPV. A total of 2,539 women had liquid-based Pap smear and 126 (4.96%) were confirmed ASCUS. Of the 126 with ASCUS, 125 (99.2%) had ‘reflex’ HR-HPV results. The prevalence of HR-HPV among women with ASCUS was 43.2%. Among the 54 with a positive HR-HPV, 76.0% were women <30 years and 24.0% were ≥30 years. The prevalence of HR-HPV was 61.2% among women <30 years versus 22.4% among women ≥30 years (P < 0.001). The mean age and standard deviations (SD) was 26.5 (6.2 years) and 34.6 (10.2 years) for women with a positive HR-HPV and negative HR-HPV test, respectively (P < 0.001). Age category <30 years was independently predictive of HR-HPV (adjusted odds ratio 4.6, 95% CI 2.0–10.7; P < 0.001). Age <30 years significantly predicts presence of HR-HPV types among women with diagnosis of ASCUS. A strategy of limiting HPV testing to older women and referral of those <30 years for colposcopic assessment appears more effective.