cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Bovine Gallbladder Mucin

Gallbladder mucin is a densely glycosylated macromolecule that promotes cholesterol gallstone formation in experimental animals and in humans. Bovine gallbladder mucin structure was studied after chemical deglycosylation by treatment with anhydrous hydrogen fluoride at 23% for 3 hours. Deglycosylated mucin contained 4% of the amino sugar and neutral hexose content of native mucin. Electrophoretic and molecular sieve chromatographic analyses indicated that significant cleavage of the mucin polypeptide core had occurred during deglycosylation. Deglycosylated mucin was separated into three major fractions by reverse-phase chromatography, one of which was enriched with respect to threonine and proline. Tryptic peptides prepared from this fraction were purified by molecular sieve and reverse-phase chromatography, and the amino acid sequences (8-20 residues) of the four principal tryptic peptides were determined. These peptides contained 65%~75% threonine and proline residues and demonstrated 80%~100% sequence similarity. These data provide the first information on the primary structure of gallbladder mucin and suggest that repeating amino acid sequences occur in this protein. Comparison of gallbladder mucin peptide structure with the consensus repeat sequence of human intestinal mutin showed approximately 60% sequence similarity. It was concluded that mammalian gastrointestinal mucins may be derived from a common ancestral gene. G
Activation of Cellulose via Cooperative Hydroxyl-Catalyzed Transglycosylation of Glycosidic Bonds

The thermal activation of cellulose by initial glycosidic bond cleavage determines the overall rate of conversion to organic products for energy applications. Here, the kinetics of ether scission by transglycosylation of β-1,4-glycosidic bonds was measured using the “pulse-heated analysis of solid reactions” (PHASR) method from 400 to 500 °C. Levoglucosan (LGA) formation from cellulose was temporally resolved over the full extent of conversion, which was interpreted via a coupled reactant–product evolution model to determine an apparent barrier of LGA formation of 27.9 kcal mol–1. In parallel, LGA formation from the glucose monomer of cellobiosan was measured at temperatures between 380 and 430 °C by isotopically labeling the 13C1 carbon; an apparent activation energy of LGA formation was measured as 26.9 ± 1.9 kcal mol–1. The unusually low activation barrier for LGA formation at lower temperature is in agreement with previous PHASR studies for cellulose breakdown and is indicative of catalytic rather tha...
Intuition Pumps

The award of the 2003 Barwise Prize to Daniel Dennett by the American Philosophical Association signifies Dennett's importance in the developing area of philosophical inquiry into computing and information. One source of Dennett's intellectual stature is his command of scientific and engineering ideas, which he effectively applies to philosophical debates over machine intelligence, consciousness, and intentionality. Dennett regards the computer as both a model and a tool that will transform the ways that philosophy is pursued in the 21st century. In order to understand Dennett's conception of how philosophy changes and fares, if his mechanistic and reductionist conception of the life of the mind succeeds, we turn to an examination of a central idea in Dennett's thought: the intuition pump.
Current Status of Immunotherapy for Localized and Locally Advanced Renal Cell Carcinoma

Systemic therapy strategies in the setting of localized and locally advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) have continued to evolve in two directions: as adjuvant therapy (to reduce risk of recurrence or progression in high risk localized groups), or as neoadjuvant therapy as a strategy to render primary renal tumors amenable to planned surgical resection in settings where radical resection or nephron-sparing surgery was not thought to be safe or feasible. In the realm of adjuvant therapy, the results of phase III randomized clinical trials have been mixed and contradictory; nonetheless based on the findings of the landmark S-TRAC study, the tyrosine kinase inhibitor Sunitinib has been approved as an adjuvant agent in the United States. In the realm of neoadjuvant therapy, presurgical tumor reduction has been demonstrated in a number of phase II studies utilizing targeted molecular agents. The advent of immunomodulation through checkpoint inhibition as first line therapy for metastatic RCC represents an exciting horizon for adjuvant and neoadjuvant strategies. This article reviews the current status and future prospects of adjuvant and neoadjuvant immunotherapy in localized and locally advanced RCC.
Factors Associated with Identification and Consumption of Whole-Grain Foods in a Low-Income Population.

Background US Dietary Guidelines include recommendations to increase whole-grain consumption, but most Americans, especially low-income adults, fail to consume adequate amounts. Objectives The aim of this study was to determine major factors that may affect whole-grain consumption among low-income adults. Methods A mixed methods approach including a whole-grain food identification activity and in-depth interview was used to determine the factors that influence whole-grain consumption based on the constructs of the integrative behavioral model. Participants were recruited from food pantries in the northeastern United States. Descriptive statistics were conducted for demographic data and survey scores, and logistic regression was used to examine differences in whole-grain accuracy by demographic characteristics. Results Low-income adults (n = 169) completed a quantitative survey, with a subset (n = 60) recruited for an in-depth qualitative interview. When completing the whole-grain identification activity, most low-income adults identified popcorn incorrectly as refined grain (71%), whereas the refined-grain food commonly identified as whole grain was white rice (42%). Less than half of low-income adults (46%) identified the majority of whole-grain foods correctly. Age, race, and education were not associated with the ability to identify whole-grain foods correctly. However, younger adults (aged 18-49 y) were less likely to identify popcorn as a whole-grain food (OR = 0.42, P = 0.02) compared with older adults (aged ≥50 y). According to the qualitative results, additional barriers, such as perceived cost, may also affect whole-grain food consumption among low-income adults. Conclusions Low-income adults' ability to correctly identify whole-grain foods and having a perception that whole-grain foods are higher in cost may be the overarching barriers to consuming adequate amounts. Future efforts should focus on strategies improving identification and seeking affordable whole-grain foods to increase whole-grain consumption in low-income adults.
Permanent Magnet-Based Localization for Growing Robots in Medical Applications

Growing robots that achieve locomotion by extending from their tip, are inherently compliant and can safely navigate through constrained environments that prove challenging for traditional robots. However, the same compliance and tip-extension mechanism that enables this ability, also leads directly to challenges in their shape estimation and control. In this letter, we present a low-cost, wireless, permanent magnet-based method for localizing the tip of these robots. A permanent magnet is placed at the robot tip, and an array of magneto-inductive sensors is used to measure the change in magnetic field as the robot moves through its workspace. We develop an approach to localization that combines analytical and machine learning techniques and show that it outperforms existing methods. We also measure the position error over a 500 mm × 500 mm workspace with different magnet sizes to show that this approach can accommodate growing robots of different scales. Lastly, we show that our localization method is suitable for tracking the tip of a growing robot by deploying a 12 mm robot through different, constrained environments. Our method achieves position and orientation errors of 3.0 $\pm$ 1.1 mm and 6.5 $\pm 5.4^\circ$ in the planar case and 4.3 $\pm$ 2.3 mm, 3.9 $\pm 3.0^\circ$ , and 3.8 $\pm 3.5^\circ$ in the 5-DOF setting.
Using monodromy to statistically estimate the number of solutions

Synthesis problems for linkages in kinematics often yield large structured parameterized polynomial systems which generically have far fewer solutions than traditional upper bounds would suggest. This paper describes statistical models for estimating the generic number of solutions of such parameterized polynomial systems. The new approach extends previous work on success ratios of parameter homotopies to using monodromy loops as well as the addition of a trace test that provides a stopping criterion for validating that all solutions have been found. Several examples are presented demonstrating the method including Watt I six-bar motion generation problems.
Active Learning for Probabilistic Record Linkage

Integrating information from multiple sources plays a key role in social science research. However, when a unique identifier that unambiguously links records is not available, merging datasets can be a difficult and error-prone endeavor. Probabilistic record linkage (PRL) aims to solve this problem by providing a framework in which common variables between datasets are used as potential identifiers, with the goal of producing a probabilistic estimate for the unobserved matching status across records. In this paper, I propose an active learning algorithm for PRL, which efficiently incorporates human judgment into the process and significantly improves PRL's performance at the cost of manually labeling a small number of records. Using data from local politicians in Brazil, where a unique identifier is available for validation, I find that the proposed method bolsters the overall accuracy of the merging process. In addition, I examine data from a recent vote validation study conducted for the ANES, and I show that the proposed method can recover estimates that are indistinguishable from those obtained from a more extensive, expensive, and time-consuming clerical review.
Beyond exotic goods: Wari elites and regional interaction in the Andes during the Middle Horizon (AD 600–1000)

A common feature of successful ancient states was the role of elites in maintaining and regulating socioeconomic structures and, in particular, emphasising their own social difference. The Wari (AD 600–1000) are considered the earliest expansive state in South America, and excavations have demonstrated the rich variety of exotic goods imported from across the region into the polity's heartland. Here, the authors argue that the importation of raw materials, plants, animals and people from distant regions was crucial for defining and sustaining Wari social differentiation and ideology. They emphasise the importance of studying material provenance and their archaeological contexts in order to understand the role of exotic goods in legitimising ruling groups in ancient states.
The Impact of the Circadian Clock on Skin Physiology and Cancer Development

Skin cancers are growing in incidence worldwide and are primarily caused by exposures to ultraviolet (UV) wavelengths of sunlight. UV radiation induces the formation of photoproducts and other lesions in DNA that if not removed by DNA repair may lead to mutagenesis and carcinogenesis. Though the factors that cause skin carcinogenesis are reasonably well understood, studies over the past 10–15 years have linked the timing of UV exposure to DNA repair and skin carcinogenesis and implicate a role for the body’s circadian clock in UV response and disease risk. Here we review what is known about the skin circadian clock, how it affects various aspects of skin physiology, and the factors that affect circadian rhythms in the skin. Furthermore, the molecular understanding of the circadian clock has led to the development of small molecules that target clock proteins; thus, we discuss the potential use of such compounds for manipulating circadian clock-controlled processes in the skin to modulate responses to UV radiation and mitigate cancer risk.
Metabolic Risk Profiles for Hepatic Steatosis Differ by Race/Ethnicity: An Elastography-Based Study of US Adults

Most population-based studies of risk profiles for liver steatosis have relied upon serum markers (e.g., ALT or FIB-4) or ultrasound steatosis index to define cases. We sought to examine racial/ethnic differences in metabolic risk factors associated with liver steatosis and fibrosis at the population level using elastography-based measures. In total, 4509 adults completed vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTE) with controlled attenuated parameter (CAP) examinations in the 2017–2018 National Health and Nutrition Examinations Survey. Race/ethnicity was self-identified; metabolic parameters included waist circumference, obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. Primary outcome was steatosis defined by CAP score ≥ 280 decibels per meter and secondary outcome significant fibrosis by VCTE median stiffness ≥ 8 kilopascals. Race-specific logistic regression models were performed to assess the relationship between metabolic parameters and hepatic steatosis and fibrosis. Prevalence of elastography-based hepatic steatosis was > 30% for all race/ethnicities. Steatosis was associated with increasing waist circumference for all race/ethnicities (OR ranging 1.7–2.3, p < 0.01). Steatosis was associated with diabetes for Whites (OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.2–4.7), Asians (OR 3.0, 1.4–6.3), and Hispanics (OR 2.2, 1.3–3.6), but not Blacks (OR 1.3, 0.8–2.2); hypertension for Whites (OR 1.7, 1.3–4.7) and Asians (OR 2.1, 1.1–3.8); and hyperlipidemia for Blacks only (OR 2.2, 1.3–3.7). Of metabolic risk factors, higher odds of fibrosis were demonstrated with higher waist circumference per 10 cm increase (OR 2.1, 1.8–2.4) and diabetes (OR 2.5, 1.6–3.7), but the effect of diabetes was present in all racial/ethnic groups except Blacks (p-interaction < 0.05). Blacks have a distinct metabolic phenotype for steatosis, while Asians, Whites, and Hispanics are more similar. Racial/ethnic differences in risk profiles are important to consider in prevention, screening strategies, and interventions for fatty liver disease.
A novel efficient numerical solution of Laplace equation with mixed boundary conditions

This paper describes a new type of method to solve Laplace equation subject to mixed boundary conditions in two-dimensional domains for electrostatics. The electric potential ϕ is represented by ha...
Formative Usability of the Kidneytime Online Live Donor Kidney Transplant Education Tool Among Transplant Candidates.

BACKGROUND Web-based education may be a powerful tool to support transplant candidates' learning and communication about live donor kidney transplantation. Few educational interventions are web-based and have education sharing for living donor transplant as a primary goal. METHODS Through user-centered design and iterative usability testing, we developed a web platform, called KidneyTIME, to support an educational intervention for adult transplant candidates. KidneyTIME delivers animated videos to improve candidate knowledge, motivation, and self-efficacy to pursue living donor transplantation and to promote outreach through video sharing. The animated-video educational content was previously produced by the researchers. We conducted a formative usability evaluation of the KidneyTIME web platform to enable users to find, view, and share the previously produced videos. A total of 30 kidney transplant candidates were involved in 4 rounds of testing at one transplant center, with amendments made after each round. RESULTS Transplant candidates were predominantly White non-Hispanic; 47% had incomes 43% had vision or motor impairment. Readability, navigation, and failure to find videos were the main usability issues identified. Substantial improvements were found in the usability of most functions after implementing certain features, such as enlarging text and buttons, enhancing contrast, and simplifying presentation. Participants reported that the intervention was user friendly and easy to navigate. CONCLUSION Considering feedback from a wide spectrum of users has improved the usability of KidneyTIME. A salient concern for End stage kidney disease populations is ensuring online accessibility despite vision and motor impairments.
Relation of pantothenic acid to adrenal cortical function.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the effects of pantothenic acid on adrenal function. Pantothenic acid is widely distributed in both plant and animal cells, occurring both in the free and conjugated form. Pantothenic acid will affect both the structure and the function of the adrenal cortex. Changes in adrenocortical function are suggested by the decrease in adrenal cholesterol concentration in pantothenate deficiency. An additional evidence of impaired adrenocortical function in pantothenate deficiency is provided by the abnormal response of animals to various types of stress stimuli. The effects of pantothenate deficiency on the metabolism of tissues other than the adrenal cortex may contribute to the abnormal responses elicited by stress. Adding large amounts of calcium pantothenate to the diet will modify some of the responses of intact and adrenalectomized rats and of normal human subjects to certain types of stress. The physiological changes associated with the level of pantothenic acid in the diet reflect the critical role of pantothenic acid, as part of coenzyme A, in the intermediary metabolism of all cells, particularly those of the adrenal cortex.
Lessons Learned and Best Practices of Stealth Assessment

Stealth assessment provides an innovative way to assess and ultimately support knowledge, skills, and other personal attributes within learning and gaming environments without disrupting students' flow. In this paper, the authors briefly discuss two challenges they encountered during the development of stealth assessments in two past projects i.e., utility issues related to log files and validation issues related to in-game measures. They also present successful examples of designing and testing stealth assessments and describe the steps they are taking to apply the lessons they have learned to the ongoing development of a stealth assessment for problem solving skills. The authors conclude with suggestions for future research.
Studies on rat sympathetic neurons developing in cell culture. I. Growth characteristics and electrophysiological properties.

In this series of three papers, we describe electrophysiological and pharmacological studies on sympathetic principal neurons developing in cell culture. This paper is concerned with the methods for growing and recording from the neurons and with observations on some of their electrical properties. The succeeding papers are concerned with functional synapses which the neurons form with one another. Superior cervical ganglia of newborn rats were dissociated into single cells and small cell clusters, and the resulting cell suspension of principal neurons and a much smaller number of non-neuronal cells was cultured at low density in medium containing nerve growth factor (D. Bray, 1970, Proc. Nat. Acad. Sci. USA. 65, 905–910; R. E. Mains and P. H. Patterson, 1973a, J. Cell Biol. 59, 329–345). As in the previous studies the multiplication of the non-neuronal cells could be controlled so that the neurons grew in the presence of an increasing number of non-neuronal cells or in the virtual absence of other cell types. Another method for obtaining mixed cultures was to plate the initial cell suspension onto a preexisting layer of cells dissociated from some other tissue (e.g., heart). Neurons grown for 3 weeks or longer in the presence of non-neuronal cells had resting potentials, passive electrical properties, and action potentials generally similar to those reported for principal neurons of the superior cervical ganglia of adult rats. Through the use of tetrodotoxin, tetraethylammonium, and cobalt, evidence was obtained for the presence of potential-sensitive sodium, potassium, and calcium channels. Frequently the action potential was followed by a prolonged after-hyperpolarization whose properties suggested the presence of potassium channels controlled by calcium ions. When the neurons were grown in the absence of non-neuronal cells, the action potentials were similar, but the prolonged after-hyperpolarization was rarely seen, and the neurons usually discharged repetitively in response to a steady depolarization.
Radiologic Diagnosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary malignancy of the liver accounting for one million deaths annually worldwide. The incidence of HCC in North America has almost doubled during the past 20 years, more significantly among younger people aged 40–60 years [1]. Cirrhosis carries an increased risk of developing HCC with the greatest risk in patients with hepatitis B and C. Of the patients chronically infected with hepatitis C, 25% are expected to progress to cirrhosis [2]. In the setting of cirrhosis, HCC develops at an annual rate of 1%–4% annually, with 25%–30% of patients with hepatitis C and cirrhosis developing HCC. Patients with hepatitis B and hepatitis C coinfection have the highest risk of developing HCC [3]. HCC is mostly asymptomatic and is often detected at a late stage. HCC growth can be sporadic, and screening must be performed at appropriate intervals to detect lesions early [4].
Large-Scale Electric Vehicle Operation Monitoring Platform Based on Cloud Computing

With the development of electric vehicles in China, the demand on computing ability and storage for large-scale electric vehicle operation monitoring platform is increasing. Value-added technology of grid collaborative and proactive demand forecasting, multi-source data management technology, and storage technology of value-added services platform are new technology for the platform with the help of cloud computing. By using the new technology, the platform can provide powerful computing ability without substantial investment and make sufficient technical preparation for the extensive use of the electric vehicle.
Tools for computer architecture research

Simulators are critical tools for computer architecture research and education. They are invaluable when evaluating hardware designs and enhancements, that would otherwise be prohibitively expensive to prototype in practice. Simulators can be useful vehicles for verifying the validity of initial designs, understanding their cost-benefit trade-offs, whether or not a more expensive and time-consuming hardware prototyping effort is undertaken. In addition to being the sole vehicle for conducting an investigation in different research organizations, simulators are extensively used in industry for validating new ideas before justifying further investments on those ideas. Further, simulators can also serve as excellent platforms for teaching difficult concepts in hardware and compilers, by allowing students hands-on access to hardware and software internals that may not be accessible otherwise.
Genetic Inactivation of Trpml3 Does Not Lead to Hearing and Vestibular Impairment in Mice

TRPML3, a member of the transient receptor potential (TRP) family, is an inwardly rectifying, non-selective Ca2+-permeable cation channel that is regulated by extracytosolic Na+ and H+ and can be activated by a variety of small molecules. The severe auditory and vestibular phenotype of the TRPML3(A419P) varitint-waddler mutation made this protein particularly interesting for inner ear biology. To elucidate the physiological role of murine TRPML3, we conditionally inactivated Trpml3 in mice. Surprisingly, lack of functional TRPML3 did not lead to circling behavior, balance impairment or hearing loss.
Wirelessly powering miniature implants for optogenetic stimulation

Conventional methods for in vivo optogenetic stimulation require optical fibers or mounted prosthesis. We present an approach for wirelessly powering implantable stimulators using electromagnetic midfield. By exploiting the properties of the midfield, we demonstrate the ability to generate high intensity light pulses in a freely moving animal.
The digital computation of discrete spectra using the fast Fourier transform

This paper is devoted to a discussion of discrete spectrum analysis which is important in applicational areas such as sonar and replica correlation. The discrete Fourier transform is shown to arise naturally as a consequence of finite impulsive sampling and the fast Fourier transform is introduced as the most efficient means of computing the discrete Fourier transform. These are described in terms of parameters pertinent to digital sonar signal processing, including resolution, dynamic range, and processing gain. Computational accuracy is investigated as a function of word lengths associated with the data, kernels, and intermediate transforms for both conditional and automatic array scaling. In real-time equipment, it is frequently necessary to employ some sort of automatic gain control and such a device is investigated here. Results are presented which enable specification of word length and automatic gain control requirements as a function of desired dynamic range, input signal-to-noise ratio, and mean-square error at the quantizer output.
Development of chitosan–ellagic acid films as a local drug delivery system to induce apoptotic death of human melanoma cells

This study was designed to develop a local chemotherapy device using chitosan as a local drug carrier and ellagic acid (EA) as an anticancer drug. We fabricated chitosan-ellagic acid (Ch-EA) films with concentrations of 0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.5, and 1% (w/v) of EA and examined the films using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and contact angle measurement. The WM115 human melanoma cell line as a skin cancer model was used to evaluate cell response to the films with the MTS assay and apoptosis assay, and HS68 human newborn fibroblast cell line as a control. With the increase in the concentration of the EA, the composite films exhibit increasing amide and ester groups and diffraction peaks of the crystallized EA and greater surface roughness and hydrophilicity. The chitosan films with 0.5 and 1% (w/v) of EA were found to have a potent antiproliferative effect on the melanoma cells by inducing apoptotic cell death. Localized effect of composites on cell behaviors has been clearly demonstrated. Our study demonstrated that the novel Ch-EA film can be potentially used in local chemotherapy.
Demographic changes in the '90s in Western Europe: Opportunities and risks for industry

Abstract There will be considerable changes in the demographic structure of Western Europe as early as the '90s. Nearly all countries will be affected in a similar way but the major impact will fall on West Germany, The Netherlands and Switzerland. These changes will exert considerable influence on the market for consumer goods. As illustrated by the automobile market, it can be seen that manufacturers must now start with their preparations to cater for the special buying habits of the growing senior market but that there are significant differences in their basic positions. The labour market will also react violently to these demographic changes. Branches of industry which in the main employ young people with low wage levels will have to consider a new approach. New ideas and methods must be applied to ensure that the participation of the older section of the population in working life is organised in a socially compatible way. The changes in demographic structure will in their entirety bring about such far-reaching changes that they will become a central topic of public discussion and therefore also gain considerable political significance.
Slip Deficit on the San Andreas Fault at Parkfield, California, as Revealed by Inversion of Geodetic Data

A network of geodetic lines spanning the San Andreas fault near the rupture zone of the 1966 Parkfield, California, earthquake (magnitude M = 6) has been repeatedly surveyed since 1959. In the study reported here the average rates of line-length change since 1966 were inverted to determine the distribution of interseismic slip rate on the fault. These results indicate that the Parkfield rupture surface has not slipped significantly since 1966. Comparison of the geodetically determined seismic moment of the 1966 earthquake with the interseismic slip-deficit rate suggests that the strain released by the latest shock will most likely be restored between 1984 and 1989, although this may not occur until 1995. These results lend independent support to the earlier forecast of an M = 6 earthquake near Parkfield within 5 years of 1988.
Stimulated Raman scattering and four-wave mixing: steady-state plane-wave analytic solutions

The equations for plane-wave steady-state propagation of n fields interacting via four wave processes in a Raman medium have been known since at least 1962. Complete analytic solutions have only been found for the process of harmonic generation. However, solutions have been obtained in the gain regime assuming zero pump depletion. Assuming all fields satisfy the phase matching condition we have found general analytic solutions to these equations. The solutions are complete in that they describe both pump deletion and saturation. Some example problems will be studied.© (1981) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Mobilizing Patients in the Intensive Care Unit: Improving Neuromuscular Weakness and Physical Function

Early mobilization of patients in the hospital and the intensive care unit has a strong historical precedent. However, in more recent times, deep sedation and bed rest have been part of routine medical care for many mechanically ventilated patients. A growing body of literature demonstrates that survivors of severe critical illness commonly have significant and prolonged neuromuscular complications that impair their physical function and quality of life after hospital discharge. Bed rest, and its associated mechanisms, may play an important role in the pathogenesis of neuromuscular weakness in critically ill patients. A new approach for managing mechanically ventilated patients includes reducing deep sedation and increasing rehabilitation therapy and mobilization soon after admission to the intensive care unit. Emerging research in this field provides preliminary evidence supporting the safety, feasibility, and potential benefits of early mobilization in critical care medicine.
Breeding Season Aggression of Female and Male Eastern Bluebirds (Sialia sialis) to Models of Potential Conspecific and Interspecific Egg Dumpers

Naturally occurring aggression between female eastern bluebirds (Sialia sialis) is dramatic, resulting in severe injuries and even death. Furthermore, aggression among bluebirds is usually sex specific: males attack males, females attack females. We hypothesized that the primary function of female-female aggression is to guard against the threat of intraspecific egg dumping and that, in this context, same sex aggression is related to the possibility of advantages for males of parasitism (egg dumping) of their nests. Our hypotheses to explain variation in naturally occurring aggression predict temporal variation in aggressive tendency within nest cycles and between the sexes depending on asymmetries in threats to the residents. We report the results of experimental trials in the field designed to determine temporal variation in the aggressive tendencies of resident females to models of intruder females of two species, eastern bluebirds and brown-headed cowbirds (Molothrus ater). Both species dump eggs in the nests of bluebirds. Female aggression to eastern bluebird models is greatest during early stages of nest cycles; the patterns are most consistent with protection against egg dumping and protection of nest sites from usurpation. Male residents seldom attack female eastern bluebird models, but often attack models of female brown-headed cowbirds, a result inconsistent with the hypothesis that patterns of differential parental care control aggression of female and male residents.
Reading and Study Behaviors of Fourth-Grade Hispanics: Can Teachers Assess Risk?.

In this study, teachers assessed content reading and study behaviors of 57fourth-grade Mexican American children attending a low-income urban school in south Texas. Questionnaire items were significantly correlated with traditional at-risk indicators such as grade point average (GPA), age, and standardized achievement. Teachers' assessments of students'work habits, such as the student's completion of homework and class assignments and the student's ability to get organized and understand directions, were important indicators of students 'success in school as measured by GPA and achievement. This research indicates that the identification of good study practices can be critical in targeting at-risk students and that classroom teachers are an essential component in the assessment of these behaviors. The study concludes by recommending teachers' input in making the decision about who is at risk. Further, the results would suggest that teachers give appropriate attention to the critical assessment and teachin...
Spin pumping and inverse spin Hall effects—Insights for future spin-orbitronics (invited)

Quantification of spin-charge interconversion has become increasingly important in the fast-developing field of spin-orbitronics. Pure spin current generated by spin pumping acts as a sensitive probe for many bulk and interface spin-orbit effects, which has been indispensable for the discovery of many promising new spin-orbit materials. We apply spin pumping and inverse spin Hall effect experiments, as a useful metrology, and study spin-orbit effects in a variety of metals and metal interfaces. We quantify the spin Hall effects in Ir and W using the conventional bilayer structures and discuss the self-induced voltage in a single layer of ferromagnetic permalloy. Finally, we extend our discussions to multilayer structures and quantitatively reveal the spin current flow in two consecutive normal metal layers.
Tri-trophic level impact of host plant linamarin and lotaustralin on Tetranychus urticae and its predator Phytoseiulus persimilis

The impact of linamarin and lotaustralin content in the leaves of lima beans, Phaseolus lunatus L., on the second and third trophic levels was studied in the two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae (Koch), and its predator Phytoseiulus persimilis Athias-Henriot. The content of linamarin was higher in terminal trifoliate leaves (435.5 ppm) than in primary leaves (142.1 ppm) of Henderson bush lima beans. However, linamarin concentrations were reversed at the second trophic level showing higher concentrations in spider mites feeding on primary leaves (429.8 ppm) than those feeding on terminal trifoliate leaves (298.2 ppm). Concentrations of linamarin in the predatory mites were 18.4 and 71.9 ppm when feeding on spider mites grown on primary and terminal leaves, respectively. The concentration of lotaustralin in primary lima bean leaves was 103.12 ppm, and in spider mites feeding on these leaves was 175.0 ppm. Lotaustralin was absent in lima bean terminal trifoliate leaves and in mites feeding on these leaves. Fecundity of spider mites feeding on lima bean leaves (primary or trifoliate) was not significantly different from mites feeding on red bean, Phaseolus vulgaris L., primary leaves. However, the progeny sex ratio (in females per male) of spider mites feeding on lima bean leaves was significantly lower than progeny of spider mites feeding on red bean leaves (control). Fecundity and progeny sex ratio of P. persimilis were both significantly affected by the concentration of linamarin present in the prey. Changes in concentration of linamarin in living tissue across the three trophic levels are discussed.
Modeling Analysis of Tensile Tests of Bundled Filaments with a Bimodal Weibull Survival Function

A convolution model applied to single mode Weibull fiber bundle experiments was extended to predict the response of bimodal model bundles. Published data for bimodal SiC fibers predicted the sensitivity of bundle test as a function of gauge length. A bundle test could rapidly determine the modality of a bundle from experiments at two gauge lengths. Next, the method checked the applied strain rate bimodality of Kevlar. The analysis indicates that a bundle test cannot determine the parameters of a model that predicts variation in apparent modulus or strain to failure since slack in the bundle generates these effects.
The Role of Phosphorylated Residues in Peptide-Peptide Noncovalent Complexes Formation

Electrospray mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) has become the tool of choice for the study of noncovalent complexes. Our previous work has highlighted the role of phosphorylated amino acid residues in the formation of noncovalent complexes through electrostatic interaction with arginine residues' guanidinium groups. In this study, we employ tandem mass spectrometry to investigate the gas-phase stability and dissociation pathways of these noncovalent complexes. The only difference in the three phosphopeptides tested is the nature of the phosphorylated amino acid residue. In addition the absence of acidic residues and an amidated carboxyl terminus insured that the only negative charge came from the phosphate, which allowed for the comparison of the noncovalent bond between arginine residues and each of the different phosphorylated residues. Dissociation curves were generated by plotting noncovalent complex ion intensities as a function of the nominal energy given to the noncovalent complex ion before entering the collision cell. These results showed that noncovalent complexes formed with phosphorylated tyrosine were the most stable, followed by serine and threonine, which had similar stability.
Catalan path statistics having the Narayana distribution

Abstract This paper investigates determining the statistics satisfying the Narayana distribution on the set of Catalan lattice paths. It extends the list of known statistics considerably and shows how the statistics relate to one another by moderately simple bijections.
Electrical Design Space Exploration for High Speed Servers

Today's high-speed systems are characterized by a multitude of electrical design parameters due to their complexity. Therefore, performing a thorough design space exploration is computationally exhaustive. This is primarily the result of the number of variables (electrical parameters) needed to do a comprehensive analysis. In this paper, a genetic algorithm (GA) based optimization method is described as a solution to address the above problem. Traditional statistical approaches like design of experiments (DoE) are explained along with their advantages and limitations that the GA based approach improves upon.
The Class 4 Semaphorin Sema4D Promotes the Rapid Assembly of GABAergic Synapses in Rodent Hippocampus

Proper circuit function in the mammalian nervous system depends on the precise assembly and development of excitatory and inhibitory synaptic connections between neurons. Through a loss-of-function genetic screen in cultured hippocampal neurons, we previously identified the class 4 Semaphorin Sema4D as being required for proper GABAergic synapse development. Here we demonstrate that Sema4D is sufficient to promote GABAergic synapse formation in rodent hippocampus and investigate the kinetics of this activity. We find that Sema4D treatment of rat hippocampal neurons increases the density of GABAergic synapses as detected by immunocytochemistry within 30 min, much more rapidly than has been previously described for a prosynaptogenic molecule, and show that this effect is dependent on the Sema4D receptor PlexinB1 using PlxnB1 −/− mice. Live imaging studies reveal that Sema4D elicits a rapid enhancement (within 10 min) in the rate of addition of synaptic proteins. Therefore, we demonstrate that Sema4D, via PlexinB1, acts to initiate synapse formation by recruiting molecules to both the presynaptic and the postsynaptic terminals; these nascent synapses subsequently become fully functional by 2 h after Sema4D treatment. In addition, acute treatment of an organotypic hippocampal slice epilepsy model with Sema4D reveals that Sema4D rapidly and dramatically alters epileptiform activity, which is consistent with a Sema4D-mediated shift in the balance of excitation and inhibition within the circuit. These data demonstrate an ability to quickly assemble GABAergic synapses in response to an appropriate signal and suggest a potential area of exploration for the development of novel antiepileptic drugs.
Capsule commentary on Zafar et al., predictor of CT colonography utilization among asymptomatic medicare beneficiaries.

Despite widespread availability, its universal recommendation and insurance coverage, colorectal cancer screening rates remain below targets. Current US Multisociety Task Force and American Cancer Society guidelines1 provide a menu of alternative tests for patients and providers, including stool-based, endoscopic and radiographic options. Of these options, CT colonography (CTC) is not used to a great extent because of lack of insurance reimbursement, including Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).2 The guidelines’ inclusion of newer procedures such as CTC and stool DNA testing, in addition to more established procedures, is intended to increase screening in the target population. In this issue, Dr. Zafar and colleagues3 present a population-based analysis of CTC use among Medicare beneficiaries prior to the CMS denial of reimbursement in 2009. The most frequent indication for CTC was follow-up to an incomplete colonoscopy, which is currently the only reimbursable indication. Other indications include patients who appear to be at increased sedation risk due to comorbidity or need for anticoagulation. However, even in an era where reimbursement was not a factor, the use of CTC as a primary screening test in average risk individuals appeared to be low. In addition, CTC was more frequently used in white patients and individuals who resided in more affluent geographic areas, two groups that have screening rates that are closer to or above targets.4,5 In addition to insurance reimbursement, in order to increase the overall use of colorectal screening, CTC should target otherwise unscreened patients. Efforts to minimize or eliminate any pre-procedure bowel preparation, and standardize same-day colonoscopy availability for those patients with positive findings on CTC, may help increase its use in the otherwise recalcitrant patient. In addition, agreement on the most effective follow-up strategy for small polyps seen on CTC, and avoidance of the overuse of follow-up testing to evaluate clinically insignificant extracolonic findings, should serve to increase provider endorsement.
Using Popular Films to Enhance Classroom Learning: The Good, the Bad, and the Interesting

Popular history films sometimes contain major historical inaccuracies. Two experiments investigated how watching such films influences people's ability to remember associated texts. Subjects watched film clips and studied texts about various historical topics. Whereas the texts contained only correct information, the film clips contained both correct information (consistent with the text) and misinformation (contradicted by the text). Before watching each clip, subjects received a specific warning, a general warning, or no warning about the misinformation. One week later, they returned for a cued-recall test about the texts. Watching a film clip increased correct recall of consistent information relative to recall of the same information when subjects did not see the clip. However, when the information in the film contradicted the text, subjects often (falsely) recalled misinformation from the film. The specific warning substantially reduced this misinformation effect. Teachers should use popular history films with caution and should warn students about major inaccuracies in the films.
Defining regulatory elements in the human KAI1 (CD 82) metastasis suppressor gene.

The human KAI1 metastasis suppressor gene encodes for a 267 amino acid plasma membrane glycoprotein, which has four transmembrane domains and one large and one small extracellular domain. Plasma membrane expression of KAI1 is downregulated during the progression of several cancers to a metastatic state, including prostate, lung, and pancreatic cancers. To elucidate the mechanisms for this downregulation, an understanding of its transcriptional regulation is critical. Therefore, a set of luciferase reporter gene plasmid constructs were generated containing various 5' flanking regions to the transcription initiation site, with or without the first exon and a portion of the first intron of the KAI1 gene. These constructs were transfected into a series of normal and malignant prostate cell lines as well as fibroblasts and the resultant luciferase activities used to define the regulatory elements for expression of the KAI1 gene. Using this approach, the minimal KAI1 promoter was found to be 0.5 kb in size and contains two regions. The first region includes the 197 bp 5' to the transcription initiation site and the second region includes the first exon and a portion of first intron (i.e., +1 to +351 bp). This combined region result in positively regulated strong, but not epithelial specific, luciferase expression. In addition to this minimal promoter element from -197 to +351 bp, there is a second regulatory element further upstream (i.e., -735 to -197 bp), which negatively regulates luciferase expression. Additional studies of Marreiros et al. (Gene 302:155, 2003) have documented that a third regulatory element even further 5' (i.e., -922 to -846 bp) encodes an enhancer for the KAI1 gene.
Involvement of nitric oxide in myotoxicity produced by diisopropylphosphorofluoridate (DFP)-induced muscle hyperactivity.

Oxidative stress, as determined by increased lipid peroxidation, has been implicated in the pathology of myotoxicity. As a model system to study the response of muscle to oxidative insults, we have studied the effects of diisopropylphosphorofluoridate (DFP)-induced muscle hyperactivity on levels of nitric oxide (NO) and energy metabolites in rat skeletal muscles. In in vivo experiments, citrulline levels as indicators of NO and NO synthase (NOS), and ATP and phosphocreatine (PCr) as indicators of mitochondrial dysfunction, were determined using HPLC methods 15 min, 30 min, 60 min, 2 h, and 24 h after intoxication. Within 15 min of DFP exposure, with onset of fasciculations, citrulline levels were significantly elevated in all three muscles [soleus, extensor digitorum longus (EDL), and diaphragm]. Maximum increases in citrulline (272–288%) were noted 60 min after DFP injection. At this time point, acetylcholinesterase activity was reduced by 90–96% (soleus < diaphragm < EDL). The levels of ATP and PCr were maximally reduced (30–43%), and total adenine nucleotides, and total creatine compounds showed declines. The findings revealed that the increase in NOS activity and NO was greater than the decrease of ATP and PCr. Since memantine (MEM) has been shown to reduce nerve and muscle hyperactivity, we have studied the possible protective effect of MEM on the DFP-induced biochemical changes. Pretreatment with MEM (18 mg/kg s.c.) and atropine sulfate (16 mg/kg s.c.), 60 min and 15 min, respectively, before DFP injection prevented the increase in citrulline and muscle hyperactivity and the decrease in ATP and PCr. These data suggest that free radical reactions by depleting high-energy phosphates may be initiating the cascade of events leading to myotoxicity during DFP-induced muscle hyperactivity.