cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Survey of Systems Engineering Design Automation Tools

The paper surveys the current field of Systems Engineering Design Automation tools, applications, and their relationship to successful implementation of Concurrent Engineering. As well, it gives a future view of where the tools are going and why they are becoming increasingly important in the pursuit of improving engineering productivity and reducing engineering cycle time.
Video scenarios: listening, discussing, exploring, solving -- a participatory approach for the computing classroom and beyond: pre-conference workshop

This highly participatory workshop introduces attendees to the use of video scenarios as a tool for teaching computing in a problem-centric manner that emphasizes active listening, discussion and exploratory problem solving. The video scenarios present problems in the context of life-like settings and emphasize the role of computing as part of a process for solving problems that are diverse and frequently ill-defined. Attendees will participate in a variety of small and large group exercises to experience the many ways video scenarios can be used to energize classroom, laboratory and programming experiences, while developing computational, entrepreneurial and critical thinking skills.
Cuerpo anormal-cuerpo proscrito: genealogía contra la indignidad del poder

The problem that will be questioned in this communication is part of the binary classifications that, from the West, have been constructed to read, in their own way and according to their intentions, the discourses of the minority. Discourses of minorities that are glimpsed in the marginalized, in the abnormal, in what the same discourse of power called the opposite sex, in the Others. Others left aside by diverse cultural differences that translate into languages, sexual discourses and idiosyncrasies outside of what is canonically defined.
A novel approach to high resolution fetal brain MR imaging

This paper describes a novel approach to forming high resolution MR images of the human fetal brain. It addresses the key problem of motion of the fetus by proposing a registration refined compounding of multiple sets of orthogonal fast 2D MRI slices, that are currently acquired for clinical studies, into a single high resolution MRI volume. A robust multi-resolution slice alignment is applied iteratively to the data to correct motion of the fetus that occurs between 2D acquisitions. This is combined with an intensity correction step and a super resolution reconstruction step, to form a single high isotropic resolution volume of the fetal brain. Experimental validation on synthetic image data with known motion types and underlying anatomy, together with retrospective application to sets of clinical acquisitions are included. Results indicate the method promises a unique route to acquiring high resolution MRI of the fetal brain in vivo allowing comparable quality to that of neonatal MRI. Such data is highly valuable in allowing a clinically applicable window into the process of normal and abnormal brain development.
Genetic Engineering, Plants

Janice W. Edwards, Ganesh M. Kishore and David M. Stark (Monsanto Company) Several discoveries in the 1980s and 1990s permitted the transition of plant molecular biology from a fledgling science to commercial reality. These discoveries ranged from the identification of biologically important genes to the development of methods to introduce new genes into plants transformation and regulate gene expression. Nearly five dozen plant species have been transformed and the list of plant species subject to transformation include principal field crops such as corn, cotton, rape, rice, soybean, and wheat. In addition, several horticultural species such as tomato, potato, etc, have been subject to transformation. More than 500 field tests have been conducted and transgenic plants such as transgenic tomato, soybean, corn, rape, etc, are in the advanced stages of commercial development and regulatory process. Four methods have been extensively investigated for the introduction of transferred deoxyribonucleic acid (T-DNA) into plants. Most common direct uptake of DNA by protoplasts, particle acceleration techniques such as electrostatic discharge or biolistics gun technology, and DNA uptake into partially digested immature embryos. Expression of genes that have been introduced into plants is regulated by promoters, although the extent of regulation of gene activity by the promoter is influenced at least to some extent by the insertion site of the gene within the chromosome. The choice of promoters is dictated by the tissue and developmental specificity required for gene expression. Two specific applications of plant biotechnology include engineering tolerance to the widely used herbicide glyphosate, C3H8NO5P, and increasing starch biosynthesis in plants. Both tomato fruit ripening and fruit firmness are among the advanced quality traits that are being investigated. Keywords: Bioengineering; Glyphosate tolerance; Engineering roundup tolerance; Starch content; Enzymes; Insect control
Variations in the composition dependence of the activity coefficient in terminal solid solutions of Ag-Zn, Ag-Cd, and Cu-Zn

The vapor pressure of zinc and cadmium over moderately dilute solutions of α Ag−Zn, α Ag−Cd, and α Cu−Zn was measured. An isothermal equilibrium technique was used, which was believed to give vapor pressures with relatively small error. Temperature coefficients of the vapor pressure were not measured. The purpose was to determine, with greater precision than has been obtained previously, the composition-dependence of the excess Gibbs free energy of the solute. It was found that the excess Gibbs free energy attains a minimum value in α Ag−Zn and α Cu−Zn, and there is a corresponding change ind In γCd/dx Cd, although it does not go to zero, in α Ag−Cd. Such minima do not violate thermodynamic criteria for phase stability, but have not been reported previously.
A slowly inactivating potassium current truncates spike activity in ganglion cells of the tiger salamander retina

Voltage-gated ganglion cell membrane currents were studied under whole- cell patch clamp in isolation and in retinal slices. The cells were identified by (1) backfilling their axons with rhodamine and later identifying them by their fluorescence in the slice or the mix of isolated cells or (2) by filling them with Lucifer yellow during recording in retinal slices. Both methods yielded cells with similar currents. In some cases, isolated cells lacked processes yet showed currents similar to other cells, suggesting that voltage-gated currents in all cells were located primarily at the soma. Both a conventional inactivating sodium current and a sustained calcium current were found. We describe 3 inactivating outward currents, ordered in their rate of inactivation. The fastest current resembled IA reported by Connor and Stevens (1971a, b). A slower current labeled IB inactivated with a time constant of 339 msec at 0 mV. The current with slowest inactivation is labeled IC here, inactivating with a time constant of 4.03 sec at 0 mV. An additional outward current was sustained and calcium dependent labeled IK(Ca). IB was the largest of these currents. It was slower than IA, was not blocked by 4AP, and inactivated over a much more positive potential range. IB appears to play an important role in spike generation, different from that of IA: Its inactivation leads to a slow depolarizing shift of the membrane during a current step, truncating spike activity after about 300–700 msec as the membrane potential enters the region of sodium inactivation. We analyze how the inactivating outward current acts to ensure a graded spiking response and to truncate the spiking output in the presence of large excitatory inputs.
Halichondrin B: synthesis of a C1-C14 model via desymmetrization of (+)-conduritol E.

A model C1−C14 segment (1) of halichondrin B was synthesized from (+)-conduritol E (7) in 18 steps and 2.9% overall yield. Key features of the synthesis include the novel ozonolytic desymmetrization of C2-symmetric diol 6, the early-stage construction of the C-ring which accompanies installation of the crucial C12 stereocenter, and the use of an enol ether C14-ketone surrogate as a precursor to the CDE-“caged” ketal.
The further purification and characterization of mouse bone collagenase.

Mouse bone collagenase, a specific tissue collagenase, was isolated from the tissue culture media of 5 day old mouse tibiae. By a combination of (NH4)2SO4 precipitation, molecular sieve filtration and ion exchange chromatography a fraction was obtained with a yield of approximately 11% which had a specific enzyme activity 120-fold greater than the original crude extract. The molecular weight of the fraction containing the enzyme activity was approximately 41000 as determined by calibrated molecular sieve filtration studies. There were at least two distinct major fractions and one minor fraction possessing collagenase activity which had distinct isoelectric points. It is not clear whether these fractions represent isoenzymes from bone or from bone and cartilage, or are derived from a single enzyme which has been minimally degraded by the extraction and purification techniques used. Collagenase activity was inhibited by EDTA, cysteine and horse serum, but not by phenylmethylsulfonylfluoride, epsilon amino caproic acid or soybean trypsin inhibitor.
Oral laquinimod therapy in relapsing multiple sclerosis.

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease of the CNS. Early treatment reduces the number of relapses, limits progression of disability, and improves quality of life; however, existing therapies are only partially effective and require parenteral administration. Objective: To review current experience with laquinimod as a novel immunomodulatory therapy for MS. Results: Laquinimod is a new quinolonecarboxamide that has demonstrated efficacy in animal models of several autoimmune diseases, including MS. It shows immunomodulatory effects, likely through Th1/Th2 shift, but does not lead to immunosuppression. Laquinimod is metabolized in the liver, primarily by the CYP3A4 enzyme. Phase II studies in relapsing MS demonstrate a dose-response effect on disease activity, measured by number of active lesions on brain magnetic resonance imaging, and show favorable tolerability and safety based on clinical and laboratory indicators. Two Phase III studies currently in progress are evaluating t...
Accelerator Pulsed Fast Assembly

An accelerator pulsed fast reactor has been constructed and placed in operation at General Atomic. A 20 megawatt L-band electron accelerator drives a super-critical U-235 metal reactor. This device has the unique characteristic that peak power and pulse width can be varied independently by adjusting various accelerator and reactor parameters. Pulse widths range from less than 0.1 ?sec to 5 ?sec and the fast fluxes attainable are in excess of 5 ? 1015 n/cm2/sec at the surface and about an order of magnitude higher internally. Further improvements are planned to increase these yields by an order of magnitude. In addition to single pulse operation, these devices can be repetitively pulsed up to several pulses per second to provide high intensity fast or thermal fluxes if some means of cooling the fuel is provided.
Political Risk and Purchases of Privatized State‐Owned Enterprises

We assess the valuation effects and risk for acquirers of privatized state-owned enterprises (SOEs). The valuation effects of purchasers are positive and significant; they increase for purchasers that have recent high performance, better access to capital, and have engaged in larger acquisitions. The acquirer valuation effects are lower when the selling government is more corrupt, more bureaucratic, and a weaker financial performer. Acquirer's total and unsystematic risk increases, indicating that purchasers of SOEs realize diversification benefits. Systematic risk increases for purchasers when the government is characterized by high political risk.
Reduction of Glutathione by Co-Enzyme II: Enzymatic Reduction of Glutathione by Triphosphopyridine Nucleotide (Co-enzyme III)

Reduction of Glutathione by Co-Enzyme II: Enzymatic Reduction of Glutathione by Triphosphopyridine Nucleotide (Co-enzyme III)
Echo-sounder observations of midwater nets and their towing cables

Abstract By echo-sounding from a following ship it has been possible to determine the shape of towing cables as well as the depth to a net with varying amounts of wire out. It was found that at 2·5 knots the depth to the Isaacs-Kidd midwater trawl can be closely approximated by computing it from the wire angle measured at the surface.
Adaptive CFAR detection for clutter-edge heterogeneity using Bayesian inference

Radar constant false alarm rate (CFAR) detection is addressed in this correspondence. Motivated by the frequently encountered problem of clutter-edge heterogeneity, we model the secondary data as a probability mixture and impose a hierarchical model for the inference problem. A two-stage CFAR detector structure is proposed. Empirical Bayesian inference is adopted in the first stage for training data selection followed by a CFAR processor using the identified homogeneous training set for target detection. One of the advantages of the proposed algorithm is its inherent adaptivity; i.e., the threshold setting is much less sensitive to the nonstationary environment compared with other standard CFAR procedures.
Reconstitution of single calcium channels from secretory granules of rat adenohypophysis in planar lipid membranes.

Abstract Free cytosolic Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) has been demonstrated to play a crucial role in the prolactin secretory pathway. It regulates events as apparently diverse as prolactin gene transcription and the fusion of secretory granules with the plasma membrane. It is therefore important to understand the mechanisms which regulate the level of [Ca2+]i. Because prolactin secretory granule membranes have been shown to contain large amounts of Ca2+ and there is evidence that this calcium can be released independently of the granule hormone content, we have investigated the possibility that prolactin secretory granule membranes contain Ca2+ channels. When purified prolactin secretory granules were fused with an artificial phospholipid bilayer, we found a Ca2+ channel with a linear current-voltage relationship (conductance ~ 45 pS) in symmetrical 50 mM CaCl2 solutions. Said channel had an open probability that was weakly dependent on the transmembrane potential, and a very good selectivity for calcium over chloride ions. The channel opened and closed very rapidly, when the majority of events lasting well below 25 ms. This channel could be important for the provision of high [Ca2+]i levels necessary for granule-plasma membrane fusion and could also be involved in the modulation of Ca2+ fluxes across the plasma membrane after the exocytotic release of prolactin.
Simulating Clouds with Global Climate Models: A Comparison of CMIP5 Results with CMIP3 and Satellite Data

AbstractClouds are a key component of the climate system affecting radiative balances and the hydrological cycle. Previous studies from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 3 (CMIP3) showed quite large biases in the simulated cloud climatology affecting all GCMs as well as a remarkable degree of variation among the models that represented the state of the art circa 2005. Here the progress that has been made in recent years is measured by comparing mean cloud properties, interannual variability, and the climatological seasonal cycle from the CMIP5 models with satellite observations and with results from comparable CMIP3 experiments. The focus is on three climate-relevant cloud parameters: cloud amount, liquid water path, and cloud radiative forcing. The comparison shows that intermodel differences are still large in the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 5 (CMIP5) simulations, and reveals some small improvements of particular cloud properties in some regions in the CMIP5 ensemble over C...
The lipid second messenger diacylglycerol as a negative regulator of Rac signalling.

We have established a novel role for the second messenger DAG (diacylglycerol), a product of PtdIns(4,5) P 2 hydrolysis by PLC (phospholipase C). In addition to its well-known function as a protein kinase C activator, DAG produced by stimulation of the epidermal growth factor receptor causes the redistribution of the Rac-GAP (GTPase-activating protein) β2-chimaerin to the plasma membrane, where it associates with the active form of Rac1 and promotes the inactivation of this small G-protein. This represents the first example of a Rac-GAP regulated directly by DAG in response to the activation of a tyrosine kinase receptor, and suggests a previously unappreciated role for this lipid as a negative modulator of Rac signalling.
Improvement of Two-Way Active Avoidance Memory Requires Protein Kinase A Activation and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Expression in the Dorsal Hippocampus

Previous studies have shown that two-way active avoidance (TWAA) memory processing involves a functional interaction between the pontine wave (P wave) generator and the CA3 region of the dorsal hippocampus (DH-CA3). The present experiments examined whether the interaction between P wave generator activity and the DH-CA3 involves the intracellular protein kinase A (PKA) signaling system. In the first series of experiments, rats were subjected to a session of TWAA training followed immediately by bilateral microinjection of either the PKA activation inhibitor (KT-5720) or vehicle control into the DH-CA3 and tested for TWAA memory 24 h later. The results indicated that immediate KT-5720 infusion impaired improvement of TWAA performance. Additional experiments showed that KT-5720 infusion also blocked TWAA training-induced BDNF expression in the DH-CA3. Together, these findings suggest that the PKA activation and BDNF expression in the DH-CA3 is essential for the improvement of TWAA memory.
Laboratory evolution of peroxide-mediated cytochrome P450 hydroxylation. Joo H, Lin Z, Arnold FH. Nature 1999; 399: 670-673.

The article entitled Laboratory evolution of peroxide-mediated cytochrome P450 hydroxylations, by Hyun Joo, Zhanglin Lin and Francis H. Arnold of the Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering,...
Impact of Feeding Strategies on the Frequency and Clearance of Acid and Nonacid Gastroesophageal Reflux Events in Dysphagic Neonates

Background. Feeding difficulties and gastroesophageal reflux (GER) are common problems in neonates. The authors hypothesize that GER could be influenced by feeding mechanics by evaluating the effects of feeding volumes, feeding durations, feeding flow rates, and caloric density on the chemical composition and clearance of GER in dysphagic neonates. Methods: Symptomatic dysphagic neonates (n = 35) underwent evaluation for suspected GER using pH-impedance methods. Results: The proportions of acid and nonacid GER were different during the first, second, and third postprandial hours (P < .0001). Prolonged feeding duration was significantly associated with decreased total, nonacid GER and BCT (P < .03). Significant positive correlations (P < .05) were detected between feeding flow rate vs frequency of total, nonacid GER and BCT. Significant positive correlation (P = .002) was noted between feeding volume and BCT. BCT decreased with each hourly interval (analysis of variance [ANOVA] P < .05); however, ACT incre...
Fades, topography, and sedimentary processes in the Catskill Sea (Devonian), New York and Pennsylvania

Topography of the floor of the sea bordering the Catskill Delta (referred to here as the Catskill Sea) differed markedly from modern continental-margin configurations. Data from exposures in New York and Pennsylvania indicate that the Catskill Sea floor was a subdued surface with three topographic subdivisions. Nearest the shore was the basin margin , a low-gradient, shelf-like surface. Seaward, this gave way to the clinoform , the gradient of which was not much greater. The clinoform merged seaward into the basin floor. A sandstone and shale sequence with abundant fauna developed on the basin margin; thin turbidites and gray, silty shales with both transported and pelagic fauna were deposited on the clinoform and silt-stones and black shales with pelagic fauna formed on the basin floor. Boundaries between facies and between the inferred topographic subdivisions on which they formed reflect the different sedimentary processes active on the sea floor and not geophysical discontinuities. The basin margin was affected mainly by deltaic processes, waves, tides, and, perhaps, internal waves. Turbidity currents deposited the majority of clinoform sediments with a lesser contribution from pelagic sedimentation. Pelagic deposits dominate on the basin floor.
Comparison of breast density measured on MR images acquired using fat-suppressed versus nonfat-suppressed sequences

Purpose: To investigate the difference of MR percent breast density measured from fat-suppressed versus nonfat-suppressed imaging sequences. Methods: Breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with and without fat suppression was acquired from 38 subjects. Breasts were divided into subgroups of different morphological patterns (“central” and “intermingled” types). Breast volume, fibroglandular tissue volume, and percent density were measured. The results were compared using nonparametric statistical tests and regarded as significant at p < 0.05. Results: Breast volume, fibroglandular volume, and percent density between fat-suppressed and nonfat-suppressed sequences were highly correlated. Breast volumes measured on these two sequences were almost identical. Fibroglandular tissue volume and percent density, however, had small (<5%) yet significant differences between the two sequences—they were both higher on the fat-suppressed sequence. Intraobserver variability was within 4% for both sequences and different morphological types. The fibroglandular tissue volume measured on downsampled images showed a small (<5%) yet significant difference. Conclusions: The measurement of breast density made on MRI acquired using fat-suppressed and nonfat-suppressed T1W images was about 5% difference, only slightly higher than the intraobserver variability of 3%–4%. When the density data from multiple centers were to be combined, evaluating the degree of difference is needed to take this difference into account.
Aneurysm of an autologous aorta to right coronary artery reverse saphenous vein graft presenting as a mediastinal mass: a case report

Aneurysmal dilation of saphenous vein grafts is a relatively rare complication of the now common surgical procedure of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. The true prevalence of this condition is not clear, however, literature review by Jorgensen et. al. between 1975 and 2002 revealed only 76 published cases. 1 Recent review of literature, utilizing OVID (search terms: saphenous vein, aneurysm, graft, pseudoaneurysm, coronary bypass) suggests a significantly higher prevalence with 14 such cases published in a variety of multinational journals during the period of 2006 to April 2007. The causes of this dramatic increase is likely multifactorial, however, in the author's opinion, likely reflects the increased sophistication and utilization of cross sectional imaging modalities. Regardless of the true prevalence of the condition, there is little debate that the potential for serious morbidity and mortality in this patient population is significant, and that increased detection and discussion of viable therapeutic options is critical. 1 Therefore, we present a case report and discussion of a patient with symptomatic cardiac ischemia, found to have a large saphenous vein graft aneurysm (SVGA) on coronary CTA.
THE CONTRAST OF INCLUSIONS COMPARED WITH THAT OF MICROPIPES IN BACK-REFLECTION SYNCHROTRON WHITE BEAM TOPOGRAPHS OF SIC

Images of inclusions in synchrotron white-beam back-reflection X-ray topographs appear as spots of light contrast surrounded by darker rings, resembling images of micropipes, which appear as distinct white circles surrounded by dark rings. Section topographs taken across the centers of micropipes gave vertically displaced two-tailed images, arising from the helical tilt of the reflecting planes about the micropipes' screw dislocation axes. Section topographs taken across the inclusions showed no vertical displacement, only dark bars bracketing a region of depleted contrast, arising from the convex bulge of the reflecting planes lying above the inclusion. The features of the inclusion images could be reproduced in computer simulations based on the elastic displacement function of a spherical inclusion in a semi-infinite solid, and compared with others based on the displacement function of a screw dislocation in an infinite solid.
Intraoperative Assessment for Mitral Valve Competency in a Beatin Heart Under Retrograde Coronary Perfusion

Intraoperative assessment of a repaired mitral valve is of paramount importance for reparative mitral surgery. From September 2010 through November 2012, 20 consecutive patients underwent mitral valve plasty for mitral regurgitation. The patients who underwent surgery after June 2012 received assessment of the repair with the heart beating (HB group, n = 10), and the patients who underwent the operation before May 2012 were assessed for the repair only under cardioplegic heart arrest (non-HB group, n = 10). Intermittent cold retrograde blood cardioplegia was used in all patients. In the HB-group, after completion of the procedures, pump blood without a crystalloid additive was delivered into the coronary sinus. The function of the mitral valve was assessed under beating conditions. There were no differences between the two groups in aortic cross clamp time and operation time, although operative and concomitant procedures were slightly more complicated in the HB group than in the non-HB group. Postoperative echocardiography revealed none or mild mitral regurgitation in all the patients in both groups. Reopening of the closed left atrium for additional repair was necessary only in one patient in the HB group and 3 patients in the non-HB group. In conclusion, the method of perfusing the myocardium retrogradely via the coronary sinus with warm blood is safe and effective for assessing the competency of the mitral valve in a beating heart.
Surveillance Programs for Lots in Storage

The military, and many civilian organizations, require that a sufficient supply of materials be in storage at any one time to meet certain emergency needs that may arise. However, the deterioration of these materials in storage may render them unusable. It is therefore essential that a systematic program for the surveillance of such stored items be maintained in order to insure that the supply of usable items is always adequate. This paper investigates the appropriate time for corrective action to compensate for the deteriorating quality of a lot in storage, given the cost of appropriate corrective action and the cost of an imperfect lot when the emergency occurs as functions of the number of defective items in the lot. The critical equation is derived for general cost functions and then for specific cost functions of interest. The assumption made about the lot in storage is that the storage life of each item has a common known exponential distribution; also included is a discussion of how the results can...
Dendritic cell-based cancer immunotherapy☆

The development of effective cancer vaccines depends heavily on the ability to deliver target antigens to generate an immune response. Dendritic cells are the most potent antigen-processing cells, capable of sensitizing T cells to new and recall antigens. Dendritic cells express high levels of major histocompatibility complex class I and II antigens, which are crucial to cancer immunotherapy, as well as a variety of important immunomodulatory proteins, adhesins, and a potent cytokine. Dendritic cells must undergo activation to induce an immune response, and this can be achieved through the use of certain carrier proteins, adjuvants, cytokines, or genetically engineered viruses. Dendritic cells are scattered throughout many tissues of the body, as well as bone marrow and peripheral blood. Most studies have used dendritic cells from peripheral blood; however, these cells are not prevalent in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The cytokine, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, has been found to induce the maturation and enhance the viability of dendritic cells isolated from peripheral blood. Numerous clinical trials of antigen-pulsed dendritic cells have been conducted in various types of cancer, including non-Hodgkin lymphoma, multiple myeloma, prostate cancer, malignant melanoma, colorectal cancer, and non-small cell lung cancer. These studies show that antigen-loaded dendritic cell vaccinations are safe and promising in the treatment of cancer. This review discusses the use of dendritic cells in immunotherapy and some of the clinical trials that have been conducted.
Radio properties of type 1. 8 and 1. 9 Seyfert galaxies

A number of type 1.8 and 1.9 Seyfert galaxies have been observed at the VLA in order to compare their properties with those of the other types of Seyfert galaxy. The observed types have radio luminosities in the range of 10 to the 39th-40.5th args/s, with the median near 10 to the 40th ergs/s. Most of these galaxies have radio sources with diameters of about 500 pc or less. The ratio of radio luminosity to featureless optical continuum luminosity in the Seyfert 1.8/12.9 galaxies and Seyfert 1.2/1.5 galaxies is intermediate between the values for Seyfert 1 and Seyfert 2 galaxies. The infrared-to-radio ratio decreases along the sequence from Seyfert 1 galaxies, through intermediate Seyfert galaxies, to Seyfert 2 galaxies. This systematic statistical difference in the ratio of two aspect-independent quantities implies that the differences among the Seyfert classes cannot be attributed solely to differences in viewing angle.
The university president as pragmatist: An investigation of priorities

Presidents of leading American universities were surveyed to determine the priority they place upon university programs of research, instruction, and service. The study examines the priorities they place upon methods of delivering university service programs to various constituent groups and the varying priority that the presidents place upon business and professional groups; general public groups; state or local government officials; federal government officials; labor groups; and agriculture groups. The study also compares the priorities of private, public non-land-grant, and public land grant university presidents on these items. Highest priority was given to research, followed by instruction and service. The rating for research was six times higher than for service. The service priority was further analyzed to reveal a client orientation by presidents linked to the basis of university support.
Homocysteine Antagonism of Nitric Oxide-Related Cytostasis in Salmonella typhimurium

Nitric oxide (NO) is associated with broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity of particular importance in infections caused by intracellular pathogens. An insertion mutation in the metL gene of Salmonella typhimurium conferred specific hypersusceptibility to S-nitrosothiol NO-donor compounds and attenuated virulence of the organism in mice. The metL gene product catalyzes two proximal metabolic steps required for homocysteine biosynthesis. S-Nitrosothiol resistance was restored by exogenous homocysteine or introduction of the metL gene on a plasmid. Measurement of expression of the homocysteine-sensitive metH gene indicated that S-nitrosothiols may directly deplete intracellular homocysteine. Homocysteine may act as an endogenous NO antagonist in diverse processes including infection, atherosclerosis, and neurologic disease.
Regression Testing as a Service

Selective regression testing involves retesting of software systems with a subset of the test suite to verify that modifications have not adversely impacted existing functions. Although this problem has been heavily researched, it has never been discussed in the context of SaaS (Software as a service). This paper presents the specific requirements, challenges and benefits in delivering regression test selection as a service (RTaaS). We will introduce how to design and implement a RTaaS platform. An implementation of RTaaS has been piloted and improved via several real projects in China market. The real customer cases help illustrate that RTaaS is a cost-effective and easy way for software project teams to leap over technical barriers and tap into advanced regression testing selection technologies.
Dual-Functional Affinity Protein Purification

A rapid, single stage purification scheme for the enzyme pyruvate kinase (PK), overproduced by a genetically altered strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, is presented. A single affinity adsorption, washing and elution stage using a novel dual-functional polyacrylamide affinity gel produces 60% recovery of PK and purification to near homogeneity within a few hours. A second elution step increases the recovery to 77%, but does not enhance purification. The novel dual-functional polyacrylamide affinity gel is a crosslinked matrix containing both Cibacron Blue F3G-A and carboxylic acid groups, resulting in a higher fraction of accessible Cibacron Blue F3G-A groups than Blue Sepharose CL-6B. The significant purification achieved in a single stage is due in part to the large initial PK concentration in the recombinant yeast. However, the unique dual-functional interaction between PK and the support surface greatly facilitates the one-step purification. PK interacts with the pseudoaffinity ligand, Cibacron Blue F3G-A, as well as the carboxylic acid groups on the gel support. This dual functional binding increases the strength of the PK-gel binding and the selectivity for PK when binding is carried out below the pI of PK. Elution is accomplished under mild conditions, by raising the pH above the isoelectric pH of PK, making the interaction between PK and the carboxylic acid groups repulsive. The general applicability to other enzymes is demonstrated in the purification of 3-phosphoglycerate kinase, initially present as 3–5% of the total intracellular protein, which is purified 13-fold in a similar single stage operation.
Simulations of a long-baseline interferometer with adaptive optics

Simulation results of a long-baseline optical interferometer with adaptive optics are presented in this paper. Long-baseline optical interferometers have become useful tools for obtaining detailed stellar information and high-resolution images in the astronomy community. Several interferometric systems have been implemented successfully without adaptive optics; however, adaptive optical systems may be needed for a new generation of long-baseline interferometers with large telescopes such as those being developed for the Magdalena Ridge Observatory (MRO). A long-baseline optical interferometer in the turbulent atmosphere is modeled first, then an optical interferometer with an adaptive optics system (AOS) is modeled and the resulting fringe patterns for different input turbulence scales are interpreted. Finally, the performance of a long baseline optical interferometer with and without an AOS is carefully evaluated and recommendations are made for the implementation of adaptive optics in the 1.5-meter MRO telescopes.
Time-dependent effects of o-xylene on rat lung and liver microsomal membrane structure and function.

The present study investigates the time‐dependent effect of acute intraperitoneal o‐xylene administration (1 g/kg) on rat hepatic and pulmonary mixed‐function oxidase (MFO) content and activity and microsomal membrane structural parameters for up to 12 h postadministration. The purpose of this study was to determine whether o‐xylene has similar effects on these parameters as those previously observed for the m and p isomers. o‐Xylene decreased total pulmonary cytochrome P‐450 content and aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase (AHH) activity at all time points examined with maximal inhibition occurring at 3 h postdose. The isozyme‐specific MFO activity responsible for AHH activity was examined using benzy‐loxyresorufin o‐dealkylathn (BROD) as a measure of CYP2B1 activity and ethoxyresorufin o‐dealkylation (EROD) as a measure of CYP1A1 activity. Reduced pulmonary activity for both EROD and BROD was noted for the 12‐h postexposure period, in agreement with the decreases in total cytochrome P‐450 content and AHH activi...
Seismic anisotropy in the Izu‐Bonin subduction system

[1] We evaluated shear wave splitting in local S and teleseismic sS phases from earthquakes that sample the Izu-Bonin subduction system backarc to examine the dynamics of slab deformation and mantle flow. Splitting times for local S phases range from 0.6 to 1.7 s and 0.9 to 3.2 s for teleseismic sS phases. Fast polarization directions range from ∼NW-SE to ∼ENE-WSW and suggest complex mantle deformation across the region. Mantle flow induced by both plate motion and trench-parallel flow likely combine with fossil slab fabric to control the shear wave splitting observations in the southern portion of Izu-Bonin. Strong variations in fast polarization directions beneath northern Izu-Bonin suggest a diversion to trench-parallel mantle flow behind the Philippine Sea plate. This study demonstrates that many regions of subduction previously inaccessible by conventional shear wave splitting techniques may now be feasibly examined through the use of new, complementary shear wave splitting data sets.
Direct and nondirect communication of maternal beliefs to adolescents: Adolescent motivations for premarital sexual activity.

Communication between mothers and adolescents about premarital sexual intercourse was studied within the context of a model of maternal influence and on the information of adolescent beliefs about sexual behavior. Two different forms of maternal influence were explored direct communication and indirect transmission of maternal orientations. The respondents were 751 inner city African American adolescents aged 14-17 years and their mothers. Results indicated that adolescent motivations were related to their sexual behavior and that maternal beliefs about sex were predictive of those motivations independent of reports of the amount of communication that had taken place. These data are consistent with a model that underscores multiple mechanisms by which parents influence adolescent sexual behavior over and above direct communication.
HDAC4 and PCAF bind to cardiac sarcomeres and play a role in regulating myofilament contractile activity.

Reversible acetylation of lysine residues within a protein is considered a biologically relevant modification that rivals phosphorylation (Kouzarides, T. (2000) EMBO J. 19, 1176-1179). The enzymes responsible for such protein modification are called histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and deacetylases (HDACs). A role of protein phosphorylation in regulating muscle contraction is well established (Solaro, R. J., Moir, A. J., and Perry, S. V. (1976) Nature 262, 615-617). Here we show that reversible protein acetylation carried out by HATs and HDACs also plays a role in regulating the myofilament contractile activity. We found that a Class II HDAC, HDAC4, and an HAT, PCAF, associate with cardiac myofilaments. Primary cultures of cardiomyocytes as well as mouse heart sections examined by immunohistochemical and electron microscopic analyses revealed that both HDAC4 and PCAF associate with the Z-disc and I- and A-bands of cardiac sacromeres. Increased acetylation of sarcomeric proteins by HDAC inhibition (using class I and II HDAC inhibitors or anti-HDAC4 antibody) enhanced the myofilament calcium sensitivity. We identified the Z-disc-associated protein, MLP, a sensor of cardiac mechanical stretch, as an acetylated target of PCAF and HDAC4. We also show that trichostatin-A, a class I and II HDAC inhibitor, increases myofilament calcium sensitivity of wild-type, but not of MLP knock-out mice, thus demonstrating a role of MLP in acetylation-dependent increased contractile activity of myofilaments. These studies provide the first evidence that HATs and HDACs play a role in regulation of muscle contraction.
Media Transitions in the Rear-View Mirror: Some Reflections

This essay explores the development of media systems in Central and Eastern Europe in the post-Soviet period, including the influence of social and political factors, outside media assistance, and the drive toward privatization and public service broadcasting, in an effort to understand what the experience teaches about democracy promotion, about the efficacy of various forms of media intervention, and about the utility of various forms of incentives and pressures in setting agendas and effecting political change. Despite differing historical, social, and political traditions and different forms of and reactions to media assistance efforts, factors, both exogenous (“Americanization” and “strategic communication”) and endogenous (“modernization,” secularization and commercialization), ultimately contributed to a homogenization of systems, rendering less relevant the particular distinctions among countries.
Effect of spin ½ radicals on the ultrafast photoexcitation dynamics in RR-P3HT/PCBM blends for photovoltaic applications

Abstract We report the effect of spin ½ radical impurity, Galvinoxyl on the ultrafast photoexcitation dynamics in annealed films of regio-regular poly(3-hexylthiophene) (RR-P3HT)/[6,6]-phenyl C 61 butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) blend. The addition of Galvinoxyl radical impurities to the blend reduces the geminate recombination rate of photogenerated polaron pairs. Consequently organic photovoltaic solar cells made from the radical/blend mixture as the active layer show increased short-circuit current ( J sc ), fill-factor, and power conversion efficiency. We speculate that the spin–spin interaction of the radical impurity with the electron and hole forming the polaron pairs is the main mechanism responsible for the obtained reduced recombination rate.
Role of Calcium in the Control of Growth and Cell Division

SEVERAL treatments which increase the concentration of ionized calcium in the plasma of the rat have been shown to increase the rate at which thymus and bone marrow cells enter mitosis1–3. Because the calcium concentration in the blood is controlled by two mutually antagonistic hormones, parathyroid hormone and calcitonin4–6, then mitosis in bone marrow and thymus may be subject to control by these hormones. It has not been established, however, whether any hormonally mediated calcium shifts are important in physiological fluctuations in the rate of cell division in these tissues.
Retrograde transpulmonary propagation of giant A waves in aortic stenosis and primary myocardial disease

Abstract Giant a waves were demonstrated in the pulmonary artery and left ventricle in 4 patients with primary myocardial disease and 1 patient with aortic stenosis and insufficiency. The peak pressure of this left atrial a wave was greater than the diastolic pressure in either the pulmonary artery or the left ventricle. The hemodynamic data strongly suggest that retrograde transmission of the left atrial a wave may occur across the pulmonary arteriolar bed. Temporary retrograde flow should be expected in this situation.
Novel benzylic ether reductions in lignan biogenesis in Forsythia intermedia

Abstract Forsythia intermedia cell-free preparations catalyse the stepwise conversion of pinoresinol into secoisolariciresinol via lariciresinol; to our knowledge, this represents the first documented example of the reduction of benzylic ethers (or their quinone methide analogues) in plants. In this study, the specificity of the reductive steps was established: with (+)- and (−)-pinoresinols as substrates, it was found that their overall conversion into lariciresinol was highly enantioselective [i.e.>99:1 in favour of the (+)-antipode], whereas (−)-secoisolariciresinol formation was more strictly enantioselective with only reduction of (+)-lariciresinol being observed. Under the conditions examined to date, it was not possible to demonstrate the NADP-dependent back reaction using (±)-lariciresinols as substrates. Interestingly, neither (+)- nor (−)-epipinoresinols [i.e. the diastereomers of (±)-pinoresinols] underwent similar reduction to afford lariciresinol, epilariciresinol or secoisolariciresinol.
Stochastic Simulations of Cellular Processes: From Single Cells to Colonies

All chemical reactions are inherently random discrete events; while large numbers of reacting species in well-stirred vessels my appear to be governed by deterministic expressions, the biochemistry at the heart of the living cell—which may involve only a single copy of a gene or only a handfull of proteins—can exhibit significant fluctuations from mean behavior. Here we describe the Lattice Microbes software for the stochastic simulation of biochemical reaction networks within realistic models of cells, and explore its application to two model systems. The first is the lac genetic switch, which illustrates how stochastic gene expression can drive identical cells in macroscopically identical environments toward very different cell fates, and the second is the MinDE system, whose oscillatory behavior along the length of the E. coli cell illustrates the necessity of detailed spatial resolution in accurately modeling cellular biochemistry. We conclude by describing the use of a hybrid methodology that couples the Lattice Microbes’ reaction-diffusion modeling capability with a genome-scale flux-balance model of metabolism in order to describe the collective metabolism of a dense colony of cells.
Learning to teach science in contemporary and equitable ways: The successes and struggles of first‐year science teachers

Recent studies of beginning science teachers make clear that learning to integrate contemporary nature of science descriptions and equitable instructional strategies into educational practices is a complex and challenging endeavor. In this research project, we examined the views and practices of three first-year science teachers, recent graduates of a teacher education program in California known for its attention to gender equitable and multicultural content and instruction. We explored these beginning teachers' attempts to present contemporary descriptions of the nature of science and implement equitable instructional strategies in their classrooms; we videotaped two of their curricular units and conducted individual interviews after each unit lesson. From qualitative analysis of these interviews, we developed case studies that described the ideas and practices these beginning teachers took up from their preservice experiences, as well as the reasons provided and constraints identified for science topics taught and instructional approaches used. In our discussion, we examined commonalties across beginning teachers' successes and struggles in learning to teach science in contemporary and equitable ways, as well as lessons we learned about ways to improve preservice science teacher education. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Sci Ed87:419–443, 2003; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/sce.10058