cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Direct inhibition of u.v.-induced DNA excision repair in human cells by novobiocin, coumermycin and nalidixic acid.

In permeable human fibroblasts, novobiocin, coumermycin and nalidixic acid completely inhibit u.v.-induced DNA repair synthesis, with 50% inhibition occurring at 500, 24 and 8800 microM respectively. Novobiocin also inhibits damage-specific incision of DNA in u.v.-irradiated permeable human fibroblasts by at least 75%. It has been suggested that effects of novobiocin on DNA excision repair result from changes in ATP pools; this explanation is not applicable to our data because excision repair in the permeable cell system is entirely dependent on exogenous ATP. It has also been suggested that novobiocin-induced inhibition of repair is mediated by alterations of chromatin structure recognizable by electron microscopy as gross chromatin clumping. There were no ultrastructural alterations, however, in the nuclei of permeable cells that had been incubated with 1 mM novobiocin. We conclude that, in human cells, novobiocin, coumermycin, and nalidixic acid directly inhibit the excision repair of u.v. damage to DNA, and that one locus of inhibition lies at or before the incision step. Because 1 mM novobiocin completely abolishes u.v.-induced repair synthesis in permeable cells, but inhibits damage-specific incision by only 75%, there seems to be a second site of inhibition following the incision step. The similarity between the concentrations of novobiocin, nalidixic acid and coumermycin required to inhibit u.v.-induced excision repair and the concentrations required to inhibit human DNA polymerase alpha suggest that the distal locus of inhibition may be DNA polymerase alpha-mediated repair patch synthesis. The proximal inhibitory site may be a type II DNA topoisomerase.
SOCIAL NORMS AND LEVEL OF ASPIRATION IN CHILDREN

Summary.-171 boys and girls in Grade 4 from schools in three different socio-economic areas were tested on a hand-dynamometer task to determine the effects of social norms on level of aspiration. One-half of the subjects received high social-norm feedback (failure), while the other half received low socialnorm feedback (success). Analysis of variance of discrepancy scores indicated that mral girls' aspirations were significantly lowered in the success situation and inner city girls' aspirations were significantly raised in the failure situation. Social norms had greater influence on girls' than boys' aspirations for performance. The results suggest that elementary school children's level of aspiration can be altered through social-norm anchoring, but the nature of these changes varies according to the sex and socio-economic status of the child. As early as 1930 Hoppe identified level of aspiration as an important variable in studying personality. Since that time research has demonstrated that the level of aspiration is determined by a multitude of factors including success and failure (Tolrnan, 1955; Eysenck, 1961; Hellmann, 1976), need for achievement (Heckhausen, 1967; Kureshi, Husain, & Akhter, 1978), self-concept (Strasl-Romanowska, 1979; Sheehah, 1979), and gender (Mohanty, 1978; Hellmann, 1976). Some attention has been given to level of aspiration as an important variable in motor performance (Clark & Clark, 1961; Green, 1964; Drowatzky, 1975). An individual's level of motor performance appears to be directly related to how well one -thinks one can do. Furthermore, subsequent aspirations change as an individual's performance meets or fails to meet previous aspiration levels. Whether such changes in level of aspiration reflect differences in achievement motivation or are due to social-norm anchoring is not well researched. Level of aspiration may be influenced profoundly by certain social factors such as group referenced goal setting, expectancy, and social norms (Rotter, 1954). The present study sought to test the effects of experimentally induced success or failure via social-norm anchoring on the performance aspirations of children differing in sex and socio-economic background. The problem specifically was how will the level of aspiration on a motor task be affected if the child knows that he is scoring above or below others in his reference group?
Experimental Determination of the Absolute Enantioselectivity of an Antibody-Catalyzed Diels−Alder Reaction and Theoretical Explorations of the Origins of Stereoselectivity

The exo and endo Diels−Alder adducts of p-methoxycarbonylbenzyl trans-1,3-butadiene-1-carbamate and N,N-dimethylacrylamide have been synthesized, and the absolute configurations of resolved enantiomers have been determined. On the basis of this information, the absolute enantioselectivities of the Diels−Alder reaction catalyzed by antibodies 13G5 and 4D5 as well as other catalytic antibodies elicited in the same immunizations have been established. The effects of different arrangements of catalytic residues on the structure and energetics of the possible Diels−Alder transition states were modeled quantum mechanically at the B3LYP/6-311++G**//B3LYP/6-31+G** level of theory. Flexible docking of these enantiomeric transition states in the antibody active site followed by molecular dynamics on the resulting complexes provided a prediction of the transition-state binding modes and an explanation of the origin of the observed enantioselectivity of antibody 13G5.
Density‐Dependent Growth and Survival of Penaeus setiferus and Penaeus vannamei in a Semi‐Closed Recirculating System

.— Two growth trials utilizing Penaeus vannamei and Penaeus setiferus were conducted at densities of 28.4, 56.8, 85.2, 113.6, 170.4, 227.3 and 284.1/ m2 in an indoor recirculating system. There was an inverse linear relationship between stocking density and growth among both species. The relationship between final weight and stocking density is described by the following linear equation: P. setiferus, Y =−0.00619X ± 4.46, adj. r2= 0.8572;.P. vannamei, Y=−0.00717X ± 7.39, adj. r2= 0.6230. Although the responses in terms of growth depressions were similar, P. setiferus growth was lower than that of P. vannamei. There was an inverse relationship between stocking density and survival for P. setiferus. Survival of P. vannamei was highly variable but was negatively correlated with density. Based on the results of the present study, P. setiferus has a similar tolerance of high density as that of P. vannamei and hence may be suitable for intensive culture systems. However, depressed growth rates of P. setiferus, which do not appear to be due to effects of water quality or density, must be solved if growth rates similar to P. vannamei are to be realized.
Effect of acute and chronic cardiac denervation on osmotic release of vasotocin in chickens.

Hypo- and hyperosmotic NaCl were infused intravenously to examine osmotic release of arginine vamtocin (AVT) in anesthetized, acutely cardiacdenervated chickens and in conscious, chronically denervated birds. Mean arterial blood pressure was consistently higher in denervated compared to sham-operated chickens but heart rates were similar in experimental and control groups. Plasma AVT concentrations (pAVT) were significantly higher than controls in acutely, but not chronically, denervated chickens. The slope of the regression line relating pAVT to plasma sodium concentration was higher in denervated birds indicating that removal of cardiac receptor activity increases the osmotic sensitivity of the AVT system. The results suggest that cardiac end- net receptor activity may participate in the regulation of blood pressure and can modulate the release of antidiuretic hormone in the chicken. 0 1986 society for Experimental Biology and Medicine.
A Rapid Method for Qualitative Analysis of Volatile Mercaptan Mixtures

THE recently developed technique of flash exchange gas chromatography1,2 has proved valuable for the determination of trace quantities of volatile aldehydes, ketones and acids. This approach has now been extended to the qualitative analysis of volatile mercaptans3,4 by use of the exchange reaction between mercuric mercaptides and toluene-3,4-dithiol.
Whites' perceptions of discrimination against Blacks: The influence of common identity

Abstract The present research, consisting of three experiments, examined how different ways of representing the group identities of White and Black Americans affect Whites' recognition of discrimination against a Black person and their willingness to protest on behalf of that person. In Experiment 1 we predicted and found that inducing a common-group representation (as Americans), compared to a condition that emphasized separate racial-group identities, reduced Whites' recognition of subtle discrimination. This pattern was reversed under external threat. In Experiment 2, common identity reduced recognition of discrimination that was subtle, but not blatant. In addition, although a common-group identity did not facilitate Whites' willingness to protest blatant discrimination in Experiments 2 and 3, in Experiment 3 inducing a dual identity, which emphasizes both subgroup differences and a common-group representation, did. We discuss the implications of the results for when common- and dual-identity representations foster action on behalf of a minority group.
Concealment of electrocardiographically based diagnosis of left ventricular hypertrophy by anasarca.

Background Diagnosis of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is primarily based on measurements of R- and S-waves from various electrocardiographic (ECG) leads. Recent information has shown that anasarca peripheral edema (AN) (defined as fluid accumulation diagnosed by weight gain, positive fluid intake/output records, and pitting edema in the lower extremities and rest of the body, particularly in the dorsal region) leads to attenuation in the amplitude of QRS complexes and consequently could interfere with the diagnosis of LVH. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether the diagnosis of LVH is concealed by AN. Methods Conventional ECG measurements and diagnostic binary characterization according to the Cornell, Sokolow-Lyon, and Romhilt-Estes systems were carried out in 14 patients with LVH (six patients with AN and eight patients admitted contemporaneously who did not gain weight during their hospitalization and who served as control subjects). The patients with AN were evaluated on admission (before the development of AN), and on the days of half of peak weight (HF-W) gain, peak weight (P-W) gain, and the lowest subsequent weight (L-W). The control subjects were evaluated on admission and at discharge. Analyses included the following: characterization by the three LVH diagnostic instruments mentioned previously; QRS amplitude measurements for the assessment of LVH before and after development of AN; and comparisons of the AN patients with the control subjects. Results Measurements and binary characterization was diagnostic of LVH on admission by design for all 14 patients. However, although such characterization remained unaltered for the control subjects, the patients with AN revealed statistically significant drops in all ECG measurements on the days of HF-W gain (P = .016 to .0005) and P-W gain (P = .02 to .0005), at which points the diagnosis of LVH could no longer anymore substantiated. Conclusions The results of this study indicate that AN interferes with electrocardiographically based diagnosis of LVH. This has clinical implications because accurate characterization of the presence or absence of LVH is unattainable in patients with AN and should await abatement of the edematous state. The previously stated can be extrapolated to the patients with congestive heart failure who have gone on to develop right heart failure and AN, or to patients with end-stage renal failure who also reveal attenuation of the ECG QRS potentials at the stage of poor compensation of their edematous state.
Automatic Detection and Tracking of Security Breaches in Airports

A surveillance system that detects and tracks security breaches in airports is presented. The system consists of two subsystems with one overhead static and one Pan/Tilt/Zoom (PTZ) camera to first acquire and then follow an intruder who illegally walks into a crowded secure area of an airport. The overhead camera detects the intruder using a motionbased segmentation and an optical flow algorithm. Intruder handover from the overhead camera to the PTZ camera is then performed. A novel approach for intruder handover and feature extraction using color is presented for continuous tracking with the PTZ camera when the intruder moves out of the view of the overhead camera. We also use a mean shift filter with a newly designed non-rectangular search window which will be automatically updated to accurately localize the target. Real experimental results from a local airport are given and discussed.
Some integration formulas for a four-node isoparametric element

Abstract In this paper we present analytical integration formulas for a four-node isoparametric element. All the formulas are constructed with three simple functions of element nodal values, and therefore they can be easily coded and have high cost-effectiveness. Some of the formulas are exact and some are approximate. However, even the approximate formulas have enough accuracy and do not suffer from the so-called “hourglass” instability, which is a major drawback of one-point quadrature.
Stochastic target interception in non-convex domain using MILP

In this paper we present a planning approach for the stochastic target interception problem, in which, a team of mobile sensor agents is tasked with intercepting multiple targets. We extend our previous work on stochastic target interception to non-convex domains and propose a cost that addresses minimum time requirement for probabilistically intercepting all the targets if possible over a finite horizon. Indeed, our optimization problem for the stochastic case has similar computational costs as the optimization program for the corresponding deterministic case. Our solution presumes that the system can be approximated by linear dynamics and Gaussian noise, with Gaussian localization uncertainty.
Analytic models of electron impact excitation cross sections

A number of analytic forms are presented which have been used to represent electron impact excitation cross sections all the way from threshold to the high energy domain where they join approximately to the results of the Born-Bethe approximation. Techniques for estimating the parameters in these analytic forms are described in detail so that the reader can update his own parameter set when new experimental information becomes available. A short collection of parameters for excitations to key states of N2, O2 and O is given along with references to sources where more complete sets are available. The importance of analytic models as a means of communication to aeronomical users of cross sections is discussed.
Modal Approximation of Distributed Dynamics for a Hydraulic Transmission Line With Pressure Input-Flow Rate Output Causality

Based on analytical results obtained in the frequency domain, modal approximation techniques are employed to derive transfer function and state space models applicable to a pressure input-flow rate output causality case of a transmission line. The causality case considered here arises while modeling short connection lines to hydraulic accumulators. However, the modal approximation results presented apply also to other cases where the linear friction model is considered applicable. It is highlighted that the results presented can reduce the overall order of the hydraulic system model containing the transmission line being considered.
Full reconstitution of human platelets in humanized mice after macrophage depletion

Cotransplantation of human fetal thymic tissue and CD34+ fetal liver cells in nonobese diabetic (NOD)/severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) or NOD/SCID/γc−/− mice results in the development of multilineage human hematopoietic cells. In this study, we show that these humanized mice had extremely low levels of human platelets. The presence of human megakaryocytes at a normal concentration in the bone marrow suggests that human megakaryocytic differentiation occurred efficiently in these mice. Rapid increase in human platelets in blood to levels comparable with those of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) after macrophage depletion indicates that mouse macrophages are responsible for the poor human platelet reconstitution in humanized mice. In support of this possibility, human platelets were rapidly rejected after infusion into untreated mice, but persisted in macrophage-depleted mice. These findings indicate that inhibition or depletion of recipient mouse macrophages may provide a useful means for evaluating human thrombopoiesis and platelet function in vivo using immunodeficient mice.
Effectiveness of a Psychiatric Rehabilitation Training Program for Community Services Staff

Abstract The implementation of a pilot-project for training community services staff in empirically-validated psychiatric rehabilitation techniques is described. Thirteen staff from six community settings were trained in how to conduct the UCLA Social and Independent Living Skills modules and Personal Effectiveness Training (PET) groups. The investigators report on the effectiveness of utilizing a brief seminar-type training format with one-year consultation follow-up. Results provide evidence for the effectiveness of such a training procedure. Specifically, results indicated that participants' knowledge of materials taught in the course increased and that during a three to twelve month post-training follow-up period, the number of new groups implemented increased substantially. The importance of designing similar training programs to disseminate psychiatric rehabilitation technologies to community settings is emphasized.
Ecosystem Structure and Function are Complementary Measures of Water Quality in a Polluted, Spring-Influenced River

We tested how ecosystem structure (macroinvertebrate community and primary producers) and functions (leaf decay and open-water metabolism) are related to water quality in the Portneuf River, southeast Idaho. This river is polluted with excess nutrients and fine sediment and simultaneously demonstrates a range of hydrologic conditions due to a variety of groundwater and spring inputs. Macroinvertebrate abundance, functional feeding group composition, and diversity responded most to hydrology due to affinity of the invasive New Zealand mudsnail for spring-influenced conditions. Macrophytes were most abundant at spring-influenced sites, while benthic periphyton standing crop was highest at sites with highest nutrient concentrations. Leaf decay rates increased by 50% at spring-influenced sites and showed no response to 3–100-fold differences in nutrient concentrations. Finally, primary production measured via open-water metabolism was highest at spring-influenced sites, which tended to have low turbidity. Community respiration, however, was greatest at the site with the highest nutrient concentrations. Therefore, open-water metabolism was a useful indicator of water quality in this nutrient-polluted river, while invertebrate community structure and leaf decay did not reflect large differences in water quality among sites. Our findings suggest that structure and function metrics provide complementary information on biotic responses to water pollution and that these metrics should be used in concert to more fully understand and monitor biotic responses to water pollution and hydrologic alterations in streams and rivers.
Nanoscale protein domain motion and long-range allostery in signaling proteins—a view from neutron spin echo spectroscopy

Many cellular proteins are multi-domain proteins. Coupled domain–domain interactions in these multidomain proteins are important for the allosteric relay of signals in the cellular signaling networks. We have initiated the application of neutron spin echo spectroscopy to the study of nanoscale protein domain motions on submicrosecond time scales and on nanometer length scale. Our NSE experiments reveal the activation of protein domain motions over a long distance of over more than 100 A in a multidomain scaffolding protein NHERF1 upon binding to another protein, Ezrin. Such activation of nanoscale protein domain motions is correlated with the allosteric assembly of multi-protein complexes by NHERF1 and Ezrin. Here, we summarize the theoretical framework that we have developed, which uses simple concepts from nonequilibrium statistical mechanics to interpret the NSE data, and employs a mobility tensor to describe nanoscale protein domain motion. Extracting nanoscale protein domain motion from the NSE does not require elaborate molecular dynamics simulations, nor complex fits to rotational motion, nor elastic network models. The approach is thus more robust than multiparameter techniques that require untestable assumptions. We also demonstrate that an experimental scheme of selective deuteration of a protein subunit in a complex can highlight and amplify specific domain dynamics from the abundant global translational and rotational motions in a protein. We expect NSE to provide a unique tool to determine nanoscale protein dynamics for the understanding of protein functions, such as how signals are propagated in a protein over a long distance to a distal domain.
A Bayes Rule for the Symmetric Multiple Comparisons Problem

Abstract A simple LSD (least significant difference) rule is presented for simultaneously testing the differences between n treatments considered in all possible pairs. This rule is a simpler, fully completed, version of the Bayes rule presented for special cases in Duncan [4]. It is based on the same multiple decision theory model except for a modified and extended use of a conjugate chi-square density in the prior. The new rule has the same intuitively appealing dependence on the between-treatment F ratio, varying from a sensitive comparisonwise-α-like rule when F is large or moderate, to a conservative experimentwise-α-like rule when F is small. Tables of t for computing the LSD are presented for three choices of a type-1 to type-2 error-seriousness ratio, k = 50, 100 and 500 (analogous to the usual choices of α = .10, .05 and .01 in testing a single difference), and for full ranges of F and its degree of freedom q and f.
Determination of White Phosphorus Residues in Ducks: An Atomic Emission Detection/Compound-Independent Calibration-Based Method of Generating Residue Data for Risk Assessment and Environmental Monitoring

Analysis of phosphorus concentrations in the gizzards of ducks harvested from munitions sites is necessary to ascertain if acute phosphorus toxicity was the cause of death and to estimate potential secondary hazards to predators and scavengers, such as eagles that readily consume the dead ducks. Gas chromatography/atomic emission detection analysis permitted compound-independent quantification of white phosphorus standards following analysis of the stable phosphorus-containing compound triethyl phosphate. The white phosphorus standards were then used to quantify white phosphorus residues in duck gizzard extracts by gas chromatography/flame photometric detection analysis. For gizzards containing less than 0.01 μg of phosphorus, quantification was based on a three-point calibration curve. For gizzards containing 0.01 μg or more of white phosphorus, single-point calibration was used. Mean recoveries for phosphorus-fortified (0.03−3000 μg) gizzards ranged from 73 to 91%. The method limit of detection was 0.01...
Methodology for Designing Diagnostic Data Streams for Use in a Structural Impairment Detection System

This paper outlines a general methodology used to design digital data streams of electronic sensors attached to critical components of a structure to be processed by a structural impairment detection system (SIDS). The methodology begins by evaluating a specific structure, establishing a baseline behavior profile, and identifying specific structural impairments that are likely to occur. Finite-element modeling of a specific test bed is presented as a tool with which to design and create diagnostic data streams. Establishing a list probable impairments is critical to designing diagnostic data streams with which to implement a SIDS capable of indicating and, more importantly, identifying digital data signatures that may indicate specific structural impairments. Once a set of impairment scenarios is defined, finite-element models representing those impairments are created and several locations sensitive to modeled impairments are identified. A matrix of different locations and measurement types determines the instrumentation schedule. Through experimental observation and iterative structural analysis, diagnostic data streams are created that serve as (1) patterns for training neural diagnostic algorithms and (2) patterns to be interrogated to evaluate a testbed structure.
Prediction of process conditions in drawing and ironing of cans

Abstract Deep drawing and ironing are the major processes used today in manufacturing of beverage cans from aluminum. The same technology is utilized in manufacturing of steel cans for the food industry, photosensitive drums and pressure vessels for fire extinguishers. Most of these processes require multi-stage ironing following the deep drawing and redrawing or backward extrusion processes. The practical aspects of this technology are well known and gained through extensive experimentation and production know-how. However, the fundamental aspects of these processes are relatively less known, especially regarding the temperature developed during deformation and the effect of deformation speed upon temperatures and lubrication. Thus, it is expected that process simulations using FEM techniques would provide additional detailed information that could be utilized to improve the process conditions. This paper illustrates the application of process modeling to deep drawing and ironing operations. A commercially available finite element code DEFORM was used to simulate deep drawing, redrawing and multi-stage ironing operations with varying parameters to illustrate the interactions between process variables.
Subunit structure and composition of oat seed globulin.

Oat (Avena sativa L.) seed globulin was extracted from ground caryopses with 1 m NaCl, 0.05 m Tris(hydroxymethyl)aminoethane (pH 8.5) at room temperature. The globulin had a sedimentation constant of 12.1, and a molecular weight of 322,000, as determined by analytical ultracentrifugation. The globulin could be separated into two major subunits by sodiumdodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Molecular weights of the subunits were 21,700 (α) and 31,700 (β), and they were present in equimolar amounts. A subunit model of 6α and 6β per molecule of globulin is proposed. Amino acid analysis indicated that the α subunit contained more basic amino acids and aspartic acid/asparagine but less glutamic acid/glutamine and glycine than the β subunit.
π - Phase Cylindrical Vector Beams in Optical Tweezers

The use of ? - phase cylindrical vector beams in optical trapping is investigated. We find that tuning the relative phase between the eigenmodes comprising the beams can optimize the axial trapping forces.
Self-assembled monolayers for MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry for immunoassays of human protein antigens.

This paper reports a method that combines self-assembled monolayers with matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry to perform immunoassays on clinical samples. The immunosensors are prepared by immobilizing His-tagged protein G (or A) to a monolayer presenting the Ni2+ chelates, followed by immobilization of IgG antibodies with specificity for the intended analyte. The SAMDI mass spectrometry technique confirms the presence of the two proteins on the immunosensor and additionally provides a label-free analysis of antigens that bind to the sensor. This paper reports examples of detecting several proteins from human serum, including multianalyte assays that resolve each analyte according to their mass-to-charge ratio in the SAMDI spectra. An example is described wherein SAMDI is used to identify a proteolytic fragment of cystatin C in cerebral spinal fluids from patients diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. The SAMDI-TOF immunoassay, which combines well-defined surface chemi...
Is Antifungal Susceptibility Testing Useful in Guiding Fluconazole Therapy

Recently, the National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards (NCCLS) subcommittee on antifungal susceptibility testing published a proposed standard for a broth macrodilution method for in vitro susceptibility testing of yeasts. The major reason for developing such a method is to predict the likely clinical and microbiological outcome of treatment. A number of studies of fluconazole have attempted to correlate in vitro minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) with in vivo efficacy in humans by means of a variety of methods, including the NCCLS proposed standard. These studies have clearly demonstrated that the ability to predict clinical outcome with MICs is dependent on the patient population studied. Thus, fluconazole MICs were correlated with clinical outcomes for patients with AIDS-associated oropharyngeal candidiasis. In contrast, fluconazole MICs did not correlate with clinical outcomes for patients with candidemia who did not have AIDS ; these patients have numerous factors that can independently influence the response to antifungal therapy aside from the MIC. Data on patients with AIDS-associated cryptococcal meningitis from my laboratory demonstrated that the use of fluconazole MICs in conjunction with clinical variables, such as blood culture results, enhances the ability to predict treatment outcome. More investigations addressing the role of host factors in the in vitro-in vivo correlation are necessary before antifungal testing can be useful in guiding therapy.
Chlorochromate ion as a catalyst for the photodegradation of chloroform by visible light

Exposure of solutions of tetrabutylammonium chlorochromate in chloroform to UV or blue light causes decomposition of the chloroform and the buildup of HCl and peroxides in solution. The CrO3Cl− is converted during irradiation to CrO2Cl2, which forms a suspension in the chloroform, and then to CrOCl4−. CrO2Cl2 does not by itself catalyze photodecomposition. The initial rate of HCl formation shows an apparently linear dependence on the incident light intensity and on the fraction of light absorbed by chlorochromate, but different values for the apparent quantum yield at 435 nm with high and low concentrations imply a nonlinear contribution to the rate. It is proposed that, at least initially, a cycle involving photoreduction of a Cr(VI) species and thermal reoxidation of Cr(V) by CCl3OOH produces radicals that initiate further decomposition.
A formal hybrid modeling scheme for handling discontinuities in physical system models

Physical systems are by nature continuous, but often exhibit nonhnearities that make behavior generation complex and hard to analyze. Complexity is often reduced by linearizing model constraints and by abstracting the time scale for behavior generation. In either case, the physical components are modeled to operate in multiple modes, with abrupt changes between modes. This paper discusses a hybrid modeling methodology and analysis algorithms that combine continuous energy flow modeling and localized discrete signal flow modeling to generate complex, multi-mode behavior in a consistent and correct manner. Energy phase space analysis is employed to demonstrate the correctness of the algorithm, and the reachability of a continuous mode.
Biology and Biometry of Sharpshooter Homalodisca coagulata (Homoptera: Cicadellidae) Reared on Cowpea

Abstract Stage-specific survival, growth, developmental biology, and biometry of the sharpshooter Homalodisca coagulata (Say) were studied in the laboratory under controlled conditions of 27 ± 1°C, 65 ± 5 RH, and a photoperiod of 14:10 (L:D) h. Nymphs and adults were individually reared on excised cowpea, Vigna unguiculata L. Walp., plants maintained in floral aquapics containing a hydroponic solution. Embryonic development of eggs was completed in 7.1 ± 0.8 d with 92.6% of the incubated eggs hatching. Nymphs molted five times, and the nymphal period of 61 ± 2.9 d for females was 1.2-fold significantly longer than that of males. The second nymphal stage was the shortest for both sexes (6.1 ± 0.5 d for females and 5.8 ± 0.8 d for males), whereas the last instar was the longest for females only. Stage-specific mortality was similar between instars; ≈36% of the nymphs molted to adults. H. coagulata adult sex ratio was not significantly different from a 1:1 ratio. Adult females lived 52 ± 11 d, and females de...
Substance P and neurokinin-1 receptor modulation of HIV

There is a high incidence of life event stress, depression, and associated symptoms in individuals with HIV infection/AIDS. Psychological and psychiatric symptomatology in individuals with HIV and AIDS may be related to the progression of AIDS disease. The association between depression, anxiety, and stress with HIV disease progression suggests that neurobiologic and neurophysiologic factors have an important role in modulating HIV. The immune effects caused by changes in behavioral state or brain activity are affected, at least in part, through the neuroendocrine-immune pathways. Life stress and depression may be associated with altered blood levels of CNS-released neuropeptides, including substance P (SP). SP is a powerful immunomodulator which is a critical link between the nervous and immune system. We have investigated the role of the neuropeptide SP and its preferred receptor, neurokinin-1, in HIV infection and AIDS. There are compelling data from our laboratories, as well as the findings in the literature, which demonstrate that SP may play an important role in the pathophysiology of neuropsychiatric disorders, including stress and depression in HIV-infected individuals and in the immunopathogenesis of HIV disease. Modulation of SP activity and SP receptor may offer a novel approach to the treatment of psychiatric disorders and to the design of new anti-HIV therapy.
Dynamics of mechanosensing in the bacterial flagellar motor

Mechanosensing by flagella is thought to trigger bacterial swarmer-cell differentiation, an important step in pathogenesis. How flagellar motors sense mechanical stimuli is not known. To study this problem, we suddenly increased the viscous drag on motors by a large factor, from very low loads experienced by motors driving hooks or hooks with short filament stubs, to high loads, experienced by motors driving tethered cells or 1-μm latex beads. From the initial speed (after the load change), we inferred that motors running at very low loads are driven by one or at most two force-generating units. Following the load change, motors gradually adapted by increasing their speeds in a stepwise manner (over a period of a few minutes). Motors initially spun exclusively counterclockwise, but then increased the fraction of time that they spun clockwise over a time span similar to that observed for adaptation in speed. Single-motor total internal reflection fluorescence imaging of YFP–MotB (part of a stator force-generating unit) confirmed that the response to sudden increments in load occurred by the addition of new force-generating units. We estimate that 6–11 force-generating units drive motors at high loads. Wild-type motors and motors locked in the clockwise or counterclockwise state behaved in a similar manner, as did motors in cells deleted for the motor protein gene fliL or for genes in the chemotaxis signaling pathway. Thus, it appears that stators themselves act as dynamic mechanosensors. They change their structure in response to changes in external load. How such changes might impact cellular functions other than motility remains an interesting question.
Instantaneous pavement condition evaluation using non-destructive neuro-evolutionary approach

In this paper, a hybrid neural network (NN)-genetic algorithm (GA) based non-destructive pavement auscultation method for instantaneous airfield infrastructure condition assessment is discussed. NNs are employed for finite element aided forward prediction of pavement surface deflections resulting from non-destructive test impulse loading and the GAs are used for global optimisation of the pavement structural parameters by matching the NN predicted deflections with the measured pavement response. This hybrid approach takes advantage of the non-linear estimation capability provided by neural networks trained using finite element (FE) solutions in modelling the stress-dependent behaviour of unbound pavement geo-materials while improving the robustness to measurement uncertainty through the application of genetic algorithms. The performance of the developed hybrid pavement auscultation technique is evaluated through extensive field studies conducted at a state-of-the-art full-scale airfield pavement test faci...
Molt Scheduling of Western Neotropical Migrants and Up-Slope Movement of Cassin's Vireo

Abstract We investigate the effects of body mass and breeding habitat use on the timing and location of the fall molt of western Neotropical migrant passerines. Most western migrants that molt within their breeding ranges breed in coniferous forests, while most that move south before molting breed in low elevation broadleaf or open habitats. We show that larger passerines take longer to molt than smaller passerines and that larger species are more likely to migrate south before molting, whereas smaller species are more likely to molt in their breeding ranges, presumably because their molts take less time. To test our habitat results, we surveyed Cassin's Vireos (Vireo cassinii) during their breeding and molting season in Washington to assess up-slope movements. Vireos that bred in low elevation coniferous forest (usually ponderosa pine [Pinus ponderosa] or Douglas-fir [Pseudotsuga menziesii]) moved up-slope at least 300 m to molt in wetter, high-elevation Douglas-fir forests.
Priming Spatial Layout of Scenes

Observers responded to full-color images of scenes by indicating which of two critical objects was closer in the pictorial space. These target images were preceded by prime images of the same scene sans critical objects, or by control primes or different-scene primes. Reaction times were faster following same-scene primes than following the various control and different-scene primes. Same-scene facilitation was obtained with color primes, line-drawing primes, and primes with shifted views. The effect occurred with natural scenes having gist and simple artificial scenes having little or no gist. The results indicate that prime-induced representations influence the perception of spatial layout in pictures.
Notch Signaling Regulates T Cell Accumulation and Function in the Central Nervous System during Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis

Systemic inhibition of Notch signaling was previously shown to attenuate experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), a disease model of multiple sclerosis in mice. Different studies attributed these effects to decreased T-bet and IFN-γ expression, enhanced regulatory T cell function, reduced T cell chemotaxis to the CNS, or impaired Th9 cell differentiation. Interpretation of these heterogeneous findings is difficult because past experimental strategies did not ensure complete Notch inhibition in T cells and because many cell populations could be affected by systemic Notch blockade. To resolve the role of Notch in T cells during EAE, we used the pan-Notch inhibitor dominant-negative form of Mastermind-like 1 (DNMAML), as well as several complementary loss-of-function approaches specifically in myelin-reactive T cells. Notch inhibition in T cells profoundly decreased EAE incidence and severity. Notch-deprived myelin-reactive T cells had preserved activation and effector differentiation in secondary lymphoid tissues. However, Notch-deprived T cells failed to accumulate in the CNS after immunization. Parking wild-type and DNMAML T cells together in bone marrow chimeras increased accumulation of Notch-deprived T cells in the CNS after immunization but did not prevent EAE, indicating the absence of dominant suppression by DNMAML T cells. Analysis of CNS-infiltrating DNMAML T cells revealed markedly defective IL-17A and IFN-γ production, despite preserved T-bet expression. Collectively, our findings capture the profound overall effects of Notch signaling in myelin-reactive T cells and demonstrate that Notch controls the accumulation and pathogenic functions of CD4(+) T cells within their target organ but not in lymphoid tissues during EAE.
Probabilistic Conditionals Are Almost Monotonic

We examine some old and new paradoxes of probability, give a rough account of probabilistic conditionals, and prove some new results about non-monotonicity in probabilistic conditionals. It is well known that such conditionals are not monotonic ‐ a conditional which is true can become false when additional hypotheses are added. We show that nonetheless, the conditionals are usually monotonic, in both finite and countably infinite universes, or roughly speaking that we do not actually have to worry about non-monotonicity in practice.
Canonical piecewise-linear analysis: Generalized breakpoint hopping algorithm

As an extension to the breakpoint hopping algorithm developed in reference 1, the algorithm presented in this paper efficiently solves the d.c. problem for finding the d.c. operating point(s) and for tracing the driving-point and transfer characteristics of an extremely broad class of non-linear resistive circuits. In particular, bipolar and MOS transistor circuits are included. A user-friendly C program has been written to implement this algorithm where the input format for describing the circuit is compatible with the SPICE program.
Immune Suppression by Herpesviruses

A unifying theme among the herpesviruses is the intimate interrelationship of virus infection with host cellular immune competence. Herpesviruses suppress cellular immunity. Recent advances suggest mechanisms of herpesvirus-induced immunosuppression that include inhibition of cytokine production and direct interaction of virus with major histocompatibility complex (MHC) components. This suppression appears to be of clinical significance primarily in patients with underlying immune deficiencies.
Retrospective Analysis of Weekly Intravenous Immunoglobulin Prophylaxis Versus Intravenous Immunoglobulin by IgG Level Monitoring in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Recipients

Patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (allo HCT) have a higher incidence of infections partly due to secondary hypogammaglobulinemia. We evaluated the role of IVIG in allo HCT patients who received prophylactic IVIG 200 mg/kg once weekly regardless of IgG level (Group 1, n 5 115) compared with patients who received IVIG based on IgG level <400 mg/dL (Group 2, n 5 114). Primary endpoints were the utilization of IVIG, incidence of veno-occlusive disease (VOD), graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), and documented infections within the first 100 days after allo HCT. Patients in both groups were similar except for a higher number of matched unrelated donor (MUD) transplants in Group 2 (62 vs. 41, P 5 0.01). There were no significant differences in the incidence all grades of GVHD (55 vs. 50), VOD (2 vs. 0) or infections in the two groups except for a higher incidence of para-influenza infections in group 1 (9 vs. 0, P 5 0.003) coinciding with the flu season. We recommend monthly monitoring of IgG level and replacement only if IgG level is <400 mg/dL. Am. J. Hematol. 87:172–174, 2012. VC 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
NESTING HABITAT AND REPRODUCTIVE SUCCESS OF SOUTHWESTERN RIPARIAN BIRDS

Abstract Vegetation structure and floristic composition strongly influence the structure of bird communities. To assess the influence of vegetation and other environmental characteristics on songbirds, we quantified nest-site characteristics and reproductive success of a riparian songbird community in Arizona. Although we found interspecific variation in characteristics associated with nest sites, we identified two suites of species that chose sites with similar characteristics. These “nest groups” were explained largely by nest height and characteristics of nest trees. Overall, nest success was low for songbirds in this community, and averaged 23%. The most common cause of nest failure was predation (81%), although brood parasitism by Brown-headed Cowbirds (Molothrus ater) was highest at nests of Bell's Vireos (Vireo bellii) (29%). No vegetation or environmental features were associated with the likelihood of cowbird parasitism for any species; nest success for Bell's Vireos was negatively associated wit...
Length-doubling ciphers and tweakable ciphers

We motivate and describe a mode of operation HEM (resp., THEM) that turns a n-bit blockcipher into a variable-input-length cipher (resp., tweakable cipher) that acts on strings of [n..2n−1] bits. Both HEM and THEM are simple and intuitive and use only two blockcipher calls, while prior work at least takes three. We prove them secure in the sense of strong PRP and tweakable strong PRP, assuming the underlying blockcipher is a strong PRP.
T4b Breast Masses: A Retrospective Review of 12 Cases Presenting to a Metropolitan Tertiary Care Center

Introduction Due to increased awareness of breast cancer resulting in early detection, there is a decreased incidence nationwide of late-stage breast cancer, including that which presents with skin involvement (T4b). Methods A retrospective analysis of a 10-month period from August 2007 to May 2008 at Howard University Hospital (HUH), Washington, DC, revealed 12 patients diagnosed with T4b breast cancer and compared to similarly staged patients in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Finally, a logistic regression for the likelihood of T4b diagnosis was performed patients in the SEER database. Results HUH patients with T4b tumors were more likely than SEER patients to present with predictors of poor clinical outcome, including high-grade histology (100% vs 59.4%, p = .04) and estrogen receptor- (75% vs 30.3%, p = .001) and progesterone receptor- negative (91.7% vs 43.9%, p = .001) status. Conversely, HUH patients were younger (57.8 y vs 66.3 y, p = .03) and had smaller tumors (11.1 cm vs 28.2 cm, p = .02) than SEER patients with similarly staged tumors. Older patients (OR, 2.36; 95% CI, 1.50-2.00; p Conclusion While much research has focused on the socioeconomic causes for the development of T4b tumors, both patient and tumor biologic conditions cannot be eliminated as causative agents.
InterSIM: Simulation tool for multiple integrative ‘omic datasets’

Abstract Background and objective Integrative approaches for the study of biological systems have gained popularity in the realm of statistical genomics. For example, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) has applied integrative clustering methodologies to various cancer types to determine molecular subtypes within a given cancer histology. In order to adequately compare integrative or “systems-biology”-type methods, realistic and related datasets are needed to assess the methods. This involves simulating multiple types of ‘omic data with realistic correlation between features of the same type (e.g., gene expression for genes in a pathway) and across data types (e.g., “gene silencing” involving DNA methylation and gene expression). Methods We present the software application tool InterSIM for simulating multiple interrelated data types with realistic intra- and inter-relationships based on the DNA methylation, mRNA gene expression, and protein expression from the TCGA ovarian cancer study. Results The resulting simulated datasets can be used to assess and compare the operating characteristics of newly developed integrative bioinformatics methods to existing methods. Application of InterSIM is presented with an example of heatmaps of the simulated datasets. Conclusions InterSIM allows researchers to evaluate and test new integrative methods with realistically simulated interrelated genomic datasets. The software tool InterSIM is implemented in R and is freely available from CRAN.