cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Relation between serum nifedipine concentration and hemodynamic effects in nonobstructive hypertrophie cardiomyopathy

The relation between nifedipine concentration and hemodynamic effects after sublingual administration of 10 or 20 mg was examined in 13 patients with nonobstructive hypertrophie cardiomyopathy (HC). Serum nifedipine concentrations were determined by gas chromatography and were not related to dose. Peripheral vascular resistance decreased as a function of nifedipine concentration (r = −0.63, p 120 ng/ml (40 ± 3 to 38 ± 4 ml/m2, p 120 ng/ml (11 ± 2 to 16 ± 4 mm Hg, p 120 ng/ml were associated with increased end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes, reduced ejection fraction and end-systolic pressure-volume ratio. No beneficial effects on LV diastolic function were observed at these higher concentrations, as the time constant of isovolumic relaxation increased (32 ± 13 to 60 ± 11 ms, p < 0.01). These results indicate that the hemodynamic effects of nifedipine are related closely to nifedipine concentration in patients with nonobstructive HC. Peripheral vasodilating effects are evident over a wide range of nifedipine levels. At low and medium concentrations, these effects result in augmentation of LV ejection performance; however, negative inotropic effects predominate at high concentrations.
A simple method for faster nonbonded force evaluations.

Accurate approximations are introduced for the evaluation of inverse interparticle distances such that square root or division operations are not required in the computation of interparticle interactions and forces. These generally applicable approximations are illustrated by incorporation into the protein simulation package TINKER (Pappu, R. V.; Hart, R. K.; Ponder, J. W. J Phys Chem B 1998, 102, 9725; Ponder, J. W.; Richards, F. M. J Comput Chem 1987, 8, 1016; Dudek, M. J.; Ramnarayan, K.; Ponder, J. W. J Comput Chem 1998, 19, 548) along with several other speed enhancement strategies. With these modifications, implicit solvent Langevin dynamics simulations of proteins are performed factors of 4.6 times faster than the modified open source distributed program. Programming speedups are obtained by extensive vectorization, simplification of the inner loop to avoid IF statements, and by using lookup tables for the distance dependent “dielectric constant” in implicit solvent models. Benchmarks are provided for the all-atom, implicit solvent dynamics of Met-enkephalin, the villin headpiece, the B1 domain of protein-G, and barnase. We also discuss the more general applicability of the approximation methods to explicit solvent simulations and of look-up tables for other implicit solvent models such as the generalized Born models. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem 26: 691–698, 2005
Leaf bidirectional reflectance and transmittance in corn and soybean

Bidirectional optical properties of leaves must be adequately characterized to develop comprehensive and reliably predictive canopy radiative-transfer models. Directional reflectance and transmittance factors of individual corn and soybean leaves were measured at source incidence angles (SIAs) 20, 45, and 70 deg and numerous view angles in the visible and NIR. Bidirectional reflectance distributions changed with increasing SIA, with forward scattering most pronounced at 70 deg. Directional-hemispherical reflectance generally increased and transmittance decreased with increased SIA. Directional-hemispherical reflectance factors were higher and transmittances were lower than the nadir-viewed reflectance component.
Proposal review rankings: the influence of reviewer discussions on proposal selection

The telescope time allocation process for NASA's Great Observatories involves a substantial commitment of time and expertise by the astronomical community. The annual review meetings typically have 100 external participants. Each reviewer spends 3-6 days at the meeting in addition to one-two weeks of preparation time, reading and grading proposals. The reviewers grade the proposals based on their individual reading prior to the meeting and grade them again after discussion within the broad, subject-based review panels. We summarize here how the outcome of the review process for three Spitzer observing cycles would have changed if the selection had been done strictly based on the preliminary grades without having the panels meet and discuss the proposals. The changes in grading during the review meeting have a substantial impact on the final list of selected proposals. Approximately 30% of the selected proposals would not have been included if just the preliminary rankings had been used to make the selection.
Fast and Accurate Characterization of MOS and Interconnect Capacitance Using Direct Charge Measurement (DCM)

A fast and accurate capacitance measurement technique, direct charge measurement (DCM), is introduced to improve productivity of semiconductor parametric testing. The approach is simpler and much faster compared with conventional method using charge-based capacitance measurement (CBCM) or LCR meter. On-chip active device is not an essential necessity for DCM test structure and it is easy to implement parallel measurements. The basic theory, parallel measurement method and mathematical analysis on non-linear MOS capacitance measurement are explained. For interconnect capacitance measurement, an extension of DCM, degenerated exhaustive direct charge measurement (DEDCM) is presented as a faster, more accurate and thorough characterization technique. Experimental results show good data matching and significant throughput improvement over conventional LCR meter measurements.
Hemodynamic responses to asphyxia in spontaneously breathing newborn term and premature lambs

The comparative effects of asphyxia were studied in spontaneously breathing premature and full term newborn lambs. The premature lambs exhibited significantly higher baseline blood flow to several organs. Asphyxia induced similar changes in regional organ blood flow in preterm and term newborn lambs. Regional differences were found in baseline brain blood flow with an increase from cephalad to caudad. Asphyxia resulted in preferential increases in blood flow to the lower brain structures (cerebellum, medulla, midbrain, and spinal cord). Blood flow to most organs returned to baseline 140 min after recovery from asphyxia.
Human capital accumulation and endogenous public expenditures

In this paper, we present an overlapping-generations model, where individuals accu- mulate human capital through formal schooling. We model the role of the public sector in schooling as one of collecting taxes from households and providing inputs to the learning technology. Public expenditures on schools are determined endogenously. Under plausible restrictions, our model's predictions qualitatively match the observations on schooling, pub- lic expenditures on education, and student-teacher ratios. JEL Classification: El 3, E62. Accumulation de capital humain et depenses publiques endogenes. Dans ce memoire, les auteurs presentent un modele de generations qui se chevauchent ofu les individus accumulent du capital humain via l'education formelle. Le r6le du secteur public dans l' education est defini comme celui de collecteur d'imp6ts aupres des menages et de fournisseur d'intrants dans la technologie d'apprentissage. Les depenses publiques en education sont determinees de maniere endogene. A partir de restrictions plausibles, les predictions du modele s'arriment qualitativement aux observations sur le monde scolaire, aux depenses publiques en educa- tion, et aux ratios 6leves/enseignants.
CHALLENGES IN INTERNATIONAL RETAILING: COMPARISON OF POLICY PREFERENCES OF FUTURE BUSINESS PERSONNEL

Cross‐cultural variations in the international ethical environment has the potential to hamper the international activities of the unwary international retailer. This study investigated differences in preferences for policies addressing potentially ethically troublesome retail sales situations among future business personnel from two differing cultures. The results suggest the existence of cultural differences in such preferences. Implications are discussed.
Developing Bipolar Transistors for Sub-mm-Wave Amplifiers and Next-Generation (300 GHz) Digital Circuits

Here we consider the prospects for continued improvement in InP HBTs, specifically the challenges faced in a further doubling of transistor and IC bandwidth. Our objective is an IC technology supporting 300 GHz digital clock rates, -600 GHz reactively-tuned amplifiers, and balanced cutoff frequencies in the 700-1000 GHz range. Such ICs would permit monolithic transceivers for 300 GHz and 600 GHz imaging systems, -250 GHz high-rate communications radios, chip sets for 300 Gb/s optical data transmission, and very high-resolution microwave mixed-signal ICs.
Framing of Kennewick Man against the Backdrop of a Scientific and Cultural Controversy

The authors examine news coverage surrounding the unearthing of an ancient skeleton known as Kennewick Man. The skeleton was the focus of legal arguments from 1996 to 2004, with a group of scientists countering Indian claims that the skeleton should be rightfully repatriated to the North American tribes. The authors take a case-study approach, examining the theoretical underpinnings of scientific and cultural rationality in contemporary ways of knowing and linking them with communitarian ethics offered by Clifford Christians and others. Through an examination of mass media framing, the authors show how coverage has resulted in a discourse that has limited discussion to a division of rationalities. In this case, rationalist and cultural value sunfold with scant attendance to ethical or pluralistic considerations.
Cognitive Performance Test: a new approach to functional assessment in Alzheimer's disease.

A new performance-based assessment instrument for evaluating function in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD), the Cognitive Performance Test (CPT), is described. This instrument, based on Allen Cognitive Disability Theory, uses six common activities of daily living (ADL) tasks, for which the information-processing requirements can be systematically varied to assess ordinal levels of functional capacity. Seventy-seven patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease (AD) and 15 neurologically normal elderly controls were administered the CPT. Subsets of the AD patients were assessed again at 4 weeks and 1, 2, and 3 years following the initial evaluation. Internal consistency of the CPT estimated by alpha was .84. Intraclass correlation for interrater reliability was .91 and for test-retest reliability at 4 weeks, .89. CPT scores were significantly correlated with Mini-Mental State Examination scores (r = .67) and two measures of caregiver-rated ADL (Instrumental Activities of Daily Living, r = .64; Physical Self-Maintenance Scale, r = .49). Significant declines in CPT scores were seen on 1-, 2-, and 3-year follow-ups. Initial CPT scores predicted risk of institutionalization over a 4-year follow-up period.
Resistance to the Introduction of Solids and Liquids into High-Energy Spectroscopic Sources

One way to improve spectrographic methods is to improve light sources. Flame sources are convenient to use but they often suffer from lack of intensity. In order to get stronger excitation than is ordinarily obtained with a flame, a small water-cooled are chamber was constructed so that an arc could be struck through the aerosol vapor. When the spectrum of the arc was examined, no trace of light from the element in the nebulized spray was found. The method was a failure, as, I suspect, many similar efforts have been in the past. Spark excitation gave a spectrum of the element being nebulized. But even here the intensity was not what would be expected compared to the flame, at least for the alkali and alkaline earth elements.
Perturbation analysis of optimal free-time decaying-catalyst systems

Abstract Sensitivity equations are developed for a free-time optimal decaying-catalyst reference path, which enable rapid on-line correction upon updating parameter estimates. It is shown that the equations are preferably indexed in time-to-go, rather than elapsed time, and that the sensitivity region is asymmetric.
Democratic development: a comprehensive concept of comparative assessment

Purpose – Existing attempts to assess national development and processes of democratization suffer from conceptual and measurement challenges. This paper proposes a comprehensive concept of democratic development and develops a more inclusive concept of democracy to provide a common set of categories to evaluate its depth and quality.Design/methodology/approach – In order to measure the depth and health of democracy, democratic development incorporates four categories of human progress, each measured by multiple variables. The four categories deemed important for human progress are general development, democratic health, democratic inclusiveness, and human capital. Components of democratic development incorporate existing measures of political and economic development to create a comprehensive and accessible measure of democratic development.Findings – The comparative tables based on multiple goals of development clearly reveal that neither the GDP index nor the HDI are adequate measures of development. D...
Hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke in children with cancer

Abstract Background Adult survivors of childhood cancer have an increased risk of cerebrovascular disease; little is known about early stroke risk in childhood cancer. Our objectives were to assess stroke prevalence in children with cancer, to establish cancer and stroke type, and to determine if modifiable risk factors for stroke were present. Methods Children with stroke and cancer were compared with all children seen for cancer at a single institution between 2000 and 2009. An International Classification of Disease, 9th version, code search and search of existing pediatric oncology and stroke databases identified children Results Of 1411 children with cancer, 15 had a stroke (1.1%, 95% CI: 0.6-1.7%). Stroke classifications were seven intracerebral hemorrhages, five ischemic strokes (one of which was followed by intracerebral hemorrhage), and three sinovenous thromboses. Stroke occurred at a median of 5 months after cancer diagnosis. Ten children with strokes had hematologic malignancies and five had brain tumors. Thirteen patients died poststroke, eight because of withdrawal of care. White blood cell count ≥48,000/mm 3 was found in four children, all with intracerebral hemorrhage. Five of seven children with intracerebral hemorrhage had platelets 3 . Conclusions Stroke has a prevalence of approximately 1% in children with cancer. Hemorrhagic stroke and ischemic stroke occur with approximately equal frequency; children with leukemia and brain tumors are at greatest risk.
Further studies on the mechanism of antibody-antigen interaction.

Abstract By selective absorption of rabbit antisera to crystalline egg albumen as antigen, it was possible to show specific antibodies to antibody-antigen complexes and other specific antibodies to the antigen. This is further support for the findings obtained with rabbit antiserum using crystalline yeast alcohol dehydrogenase as antigen. The findings obtained so far with three widely different antigens but the same host animal, support the new concept for antibody-antigen interaction. This concept invokes progressive antigenic site formation consequent to a reaction between two protein molecules, antibody and antigen.
Supporting Telework: Obstacles and Solutions

Abstract Recent advances in telecommunications technology and transportation have freed many workers from the traditional model of fixed place of work in two major ways. First, many Americans have become telecommuters – spending at least a part of their regular business hours either in home offices, satellite offices or neighborhood work centers close to their homes, at customer sites, or on the road. Second, it has become increasingly common for work to be performed by virtual teams – where the membership of the team is not limited by the physical location of an employee's primary workplace or a team member's functional unit within the organization. The author first describes common obstacles that organizations and employees face when implementing these types of telework arrangements, and then presents both technological and managerial solutions to alleviate them.
Common acute lymphoblastic leukemia characterized by four different DNA stemlines with heterogeneity in RNA content, antigen expression and sensitivity to chemotherapy

Four subpopulations of cells with different DNA content were present in the bone marrow of a pediatric patient with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Flow cytometry of DNA/RNA and DNA/surface antigen expression enabled the identification and characterization of diploid, hypertriploid, tetraploid and hypertetraploid leukemic cells. This was not appreciated by cytogenetic analysis, which identified only some tetraploid cells (3/20 metaphases). Common acute lymphoblastic leukemia antigen was expressed in all aneuploid and also on 17% of diploid cells. Quantitative CALLA expression was unrelated to ploidy and cell size. Cellular RNA content paralleled ploidy, i.e. the more aneuploid cells had increased RNA content and there was pronounced RNA heterogeneity within each DNA stemline. The different subclones showed almost identical stages of early B-cell differentiation. The early pre B-cell antigens BL1 and BL2 were expressed in approx. 80 and 60%, respectively, of aneuploid leukemic cells. Cytoplasmic immunoglobulin heavy chain was also present. Clonal excess of lambda light chain immunoglobulin on the cell surface was present on less than 10% of hypertriploid, tetraploid and hypertetraploid leukemic cells indicating differentiation of a subpopulation of aneuploid leukemic cells to mature B cells. This was not seen for any diploid cells. The heterogeneity of the different subpopulations was also evident in the differences in response to chemotherapy: the hypertriploid and hypertetraploid subpopulations were most sensitive to initial induction chemotherapy.
Turbulent Flow Friction Factor Calculation Using a Mathematically Exact Alternative to the Colebrook–White Equation

We present a novel, mathematically equivalent representation of the Colebrook–White equation to compute friction factor for turbulent flow in rough pipes. This new form is simple, no iterative calculations are necessary, and is well suited for accurate friction factor estimation. A limiting case of this equation provided friction factor estimates with a maximum absolute error of 0.029 and a maximum percentage error of 1% over a 20×500 grid of e∕D and R values ( 10−6 ⩽e∕D⩽5× 10−2 ; 4× 103 <R< 108 ). This was more accurate than the best currently available noniterative approximation of the Colebrook–White equation (maximum absolute error of 0.058; maximum percentage error of 1.42%). The superior accuracy, however, was obtained at the expense of a 30% increase in computational effort over the noniterative approximation. The novel equation presented in this study is theoretical and eliminates the need for best fit parameters or complicated initial guesses that are a characteristic of various empirical approxi...
Kinetic Studies of Thermobifida fusca Cel9A Active Site Mutant Enzymes

Thermobifida fusca Cel9A-90, an unusual family 9 enzyme, is a processive endoglucanase containing a catalytic domain closely linked to a family 3c cellulose binding domain (Cel9A-68) followed by a fibronectin III-like domain and a family 2 cellulose binding domain. To study its catalytic mechanism, 12 mutant genes with changes in five conserved residues of Cel9A-68 were constructed, cloned, and expressed in Escherichia coli. The purified mutant enzymes were assayed for their activities on (carboxymethyl)cellulose, phosphoric acid-swollen cellulose, bacterial microcrystalline cellulose, and 2,4-dinitrophenyl β-d-cellobioside. They were also tested for ligand binding, enzyme processivity, and thermostability. The results clearly show that E424 functions as the catalytic acid, D55 and D58 are both required for catalytic base activity, and Y206 plays an important role in binding, catalysis, and processivity, while Y318 plays an important role in binding of crystalline cellulose substrates and is required for ...
New genes as drivers of phenotypic evolution.

Genes that have originated in recent evolution are present in only a subset of organisms and are often assumed to be dispensable or redundant. This Review discusses our latest understanding of how new genes in diverse species have actually evolved to have important functions in diverse developmental and physiological processes in various organisms. During the course of evolution, genomes acquire novel genetic elements as sources of functional and phenotypic diversity, including new genes that originated in recent evolution. In the past few years, substantial progress has been made in understanding the evolution and phenotypic effects of new genes. In particular, an emerging picture is that new genes, despite being present in the genomes of only a subset of species, can rapidly evolve indispensable roles in fundamental biological processes, including development, reproduction, brain function and behaviour. The molecular underpinnings of how new genes can develop these roles are starting to be characterized. These recent discoveries yield fresh insights into our broad understanding of biological diversity at refined resolution.
Adjacent Residues in the E1 Initiator β-Hairpin Define Different Roles of the β-Hairpin in Ori Melting, Helicase Loading, and Helicase Activity

We have analyzed two residues in the helicase domain of the E1 initiator protein. These residues are part of a highly conserved structural motif, the beta-hairpin, which is present in the helicase domain of all papovavirus initiator proteins. These proteins are unique in their ability to transition from local template melting activity to unwinding. We demonstrate that the beta-hairpin has two functions. First, it is the tool used by the E1 double trimer (DT) to pry open and melt double-stranded DNA. Second, it is required for the unwinding activity of the hexameric E1 helicase. The fact that the same structural element, but not the same residues, contacts both dsDNA in the DT for melting and ssDNA in the double hexamer (DH) for helicase activity provides a link between local origin melting and DNA helicase activity and suggests how the transition between these two states comes about.
Effect of the silicone interlayer on mechanical properties of carbon fiber reinforced PMR-15 polyimide composites

Carbon fibers coated with various types and amounts of very high molecular weight silicones (780000 g/mol) are used to make unidirectional PMR-15 polyimide composites. Coating conditions have been found to affect the fiber arrangement within the interlayered composites which consequently has a strong effect on composite properties. The effect of variation of the type and the amounts of the silicone on the impact resistance, toughness and mechanical properties of the composite is determined. Retention of properties of the thermally aged composites has also been studied. Finally, the interlayered composites are checked for improvement of microcracking resistance.
Comparison of HCl extraction versus total iron analysis for iron tissue analysis

Abstract Extraction of Fe from fresh leaves with 0.1 N HCl proved to be a better indicator of the Fe status of a variety of ornamental tropical foliage and flowering plants compared to total Fe, 0.1 N HCl‐ether, and IN HCl extraction. It consistently gave higher correlations (r = 0.73 to 0.95 depending on the species) with chlorophyll concentration than the other methods tested. However, even 0.1 N HCl extraction did not distinguish levels of Fe deficiency accurately when compared between species.
Molecular markers as basis for chemotherapy

Although a majority of cancer patients show no response or minimal response to any given chemotherapy, all patients are nevertheless placed on standard therapy regimens because there has been no way to identify beforehand those patients who are destined not to respond. Determining the biochemical factors relevant to drug response in each patient's tumor cells prior to treatment should allow optimal therapy to be selected for each patient on a rational basis. In this paper, we summarize studies aimed at determining whether analysis of the quantitative expression levels of genes or proteins involved in cancer drug activity in clinical specimens of tumor tissue could predict the effect of the drug on a tumor. This hypothesis has been tested mostly in 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-based regimens in colorectal cancer. In the case of 5-FU, the quantitative expression levels of thymidylate synthase, thymidine phosphorylase, and dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase were found to be associated with tumor response. Using all three of these markers together resulted in very effective identification of responding patients. The salient results of these studies were that, using the PCR enhanced by newly developed methodology, gene expressions can be identified and measured in pretreatment biopsies that are quantitatively associated with either response or non-response to drugs that are used in treating colorectal cancer.
Reduction of the cholesterol sensor SCAP in the brains of mice causes impaired synaptic transmission and altered cognitive function.

The sterol sensor SCAP is a key regulator of SREBP-2, the major transcription factor controlling cholesterol synthesis. Recently, we showed that there is a global down-regulation of cholesterol synthetic genes, as well as SREBP-2, in the brains of diabetic mice, leading to a reduction of cholesterol synthesis. We now show that in mouse models of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, this is, in part, the result of a decrease of SCAP. Homozygous disruption of the Scap gene in the brains of mice causes perinatal lethality associated with microcephaly and gliosis. Mice with haploinsufficiency of Scap in the brain show a 60% reduction of SCAP protein and ∼30% reduction in brain cholesterol synthesis, similar to what is observed in diabetic mice. This results in impaired synaptic transmission, as measured by decreased paired pulse facilitation and long-term potentiation, and is associated with behavioral and cognitive changes. Thus, reduction of SCAP and the consequent suppression of cholesterol synthesis in the brain may play an important role in the increased rates of cognitive decline and Alzheimer disease observed in diabetic states.
Quenching of 6p(3/2)/sub 1/ and 6p(5/2)/sub 2/ levels of atomic xenon by rare gases

The rates of quenching the 6p(3/2)/sub 1/ and 6p(5/2)/sub 2/ levels of atomic xenon by rare gases have been measured. The quenching rates are obtained from the 6p fluorescence decay following two-photon excitation. Radiative lifetimes of the two 6p levels are also measured. Rates from quenching Xe 6p(5/2)/sub 2/ by neon, argon, and krypton are larger by a factor of 5 to 40 than the same rates for Xe 6p(3/2)/sub 2/. Quenching of 6p(5/2)/sub 2/ by helium is found to be a factor of 12 smaller than it is for 6p(3/2)/sub 1/. The implications of these rates for high-pressure atomic xenon laser kinetics are discussed. >
GaAs MESFET model for circuit simulation

Abstract This paper describes a generalized circuit model for GaAs MESFETs. The novel features of the model include continuous descriptions for the intrinsic FET, Schottky diode and inter-electrode capacitance, valid both above and below device threshold. The model also displays good agreement with HEMT characteristics.
Effects of Surface Albedo on Cloud and Radiation Processes in Cloud-Resolving Model Simulations

Abstract The relationship among the surface albedo, cloud properties, and radiative fluxes is investigated for the first time using a year-long cloud-resolving model (CRM) simulation with the prescribed evolving surface albedo. In comparison with the run using a fixed surface albedo, the CRM with the observed surface albedo represents the shortwave radiative budget closer to the observations in the winter. The greater surface albedo induces weaker instability in the low troposphere so that the amount of low clouds decreases during the winter. This reduces the shortwave and longwave cloud radiative forcing at the surface. The analysis of the CRM simulations with the evolving surface albedo reveals that there is a critical value (0.35) of the surface albedo. For albedos greater than the critical value, the upward shortwave flux at the top of the atmosphere (TOA) is positively proportional to the surface albedos when optically thin clouds exist, and is not much affected by reflection on the cloud top. If opt...
Progression to Complete Atrioventricular Block in a Patient With Bundle Branch Re-entry Tachycardia

Abstract A 38-year-old man with no significant structural heart disease suffered from one episode of wide QRS tachycardia. The electrocardiogram showed a PR interval of 0.20 second and a QRS duration of 0.10 second. His bundle recording revealed an HV interval of 90–100 ms. The tachycardia was inducible with programmed stimulation and displayed a QRS morphology of complete left bundle branch block. It was characterized by an atrioventricular dissociation, a cycle length of 280 ms, and an H deflection preceding each QRS complex. Pacing from the right ventricular apex at a cycle length of 270 ms entrained the tachycardia, while at a cycle length of 260 ms, the tachycardia was terminated. Four years later, the patient presented with complete atrioventricular block with a wide QRS escape rhythm. An electrophysiologic study conducted while he was in 1:1 atrioventricular conduction showed an HV interval of 100 ms. Second-degree infrahisian block developed at an atrial paced cycle length of 700 ms. There was no induction of tachycardia with programmed stimulation before or after isoproterenol. The patient was treated with an implantation of a permanent pacemaker.
First-Grade Student Retention Within a 3-Tier Reading Framework

First-grade students from 6 Title I schools participated in this study, which used a response to intervention (RTI) framework to examine the retention of 1st-grade students. Researchers examined reading and behavior data from 3 cohorts of students (1 historical control cohort and 2 cohorts receiving tiered reading instruction) and data gathered from interviews with school principals. They (a) identified a change in the retention rate of 1st-grade students, (b) synthesized principals' perceptions of the retention decision-making process, and (c) compared reading and behavior outcomes of students retained after RTI implementation to those of students retained using a more “traditional” school framework. The retention rate of 1st-grade students decreased by 47% after RTI was implemented. Data suggest student behavior, oral reading rates, and other individual school variables (as identified by principals) as possible factors contributing to the retention of students.
Warfarin and vitamin K accelerate protein and glycoprotein synthesis in isolated rat liver mitochondria in vitro

Abstract Protein and glycoprotein synthesis is accelerated by vitamin K 1 and warfarin in isolated rat liver mitochondria and slightly accelerated in rat liver microsomes and brain mitochondria in vitro . At 2 × 10 −3 M vitamin K 1 , protein synthesis increased 5 fold and glycoprotein synthesis 7 fold in isolated rat liver mitochondria. There is no concomitant increase in RNA and DNA synthesis in the isolated rat liver mitochondria with vitamin K 1 or warfarin. Cycloheximide has no effect on this increase in mitochondrial protein and glycoprotein synthesis in the rat liver mitochondria but chloramphenicol completely abolishes the increase. Conversely, L5178Y mouse leukemia cell macromolecular synthesis is greatly inhibited by vitamin K 1 and warfarin.
Development of a standardized curriculum for teaching cystoscopic skills using a computer-based endourologic simulator.

Introduction:Educational opportunities with simulation are now available to teach endoscopic skills outside the clinical setting. The goal of this study is to assess the learning curve and subjective impressions of cystoscopic tasks performed by untrained subjects on a computer-based simulator using
Micellar solubilization of testosterone. I. In aqueous solutions of polysorbates.

The solubility of testosterone in aqueous solutions of partially purified polysorbate 20, 40, and 60 was determined by measuring the area under the ultraviolet spectral peaks. There was solubilization below the critical micelle concentration. A linear relationship was observed between the amount of testosterone solubilized and the per cent polysorbate concentration. Polysorbate 60 exhibited the greatest solubilizing capacity and polysorbate 20 the least. The Z-value method for determining solvent polarity was employed to investigate the polarity of the environment in which testosterone was solubilized. At low polysorbate concentrations the Z-value was similar to that in water. As the polysorbate concentration increased, the Z-value decreased. This decrease in Z-value paralleled the increase in solubility of testosterone.
DCs and NK cells: critical effectors in the immune response to HIV-1

Dendritic cells (DCs) and natural killer (NK) cells have central roles in antiviral immunity by shaping the quality of the adaptive immune response to viruses and by mediating direct antiviral activity. HIV-1 infection is characterized by a severe dysregulation of the antiviral immune response that starts during early infection. This Review describes recent insights into how HIV-1 infection affects DC and NK cell function, and the roles of these innate immune cells in HIV-1 pathogenesis. The importance of understanding DC and NK cell crosstalk during HIV infection for the development of effective antiviral strategies is also discussed.
Malonyl-CoA: the regulator of fatty acid synthesis and oxidation

In the catabolic state with no food intake, the liver generates ketones by breaking down fatty acids. During the nocturnal fast or longer starvation periods, this protects the brain, which cannot oxidize fatty acids. In 1977, we published a study in the JCI noting the surprising realization that malonyl-CoA, the substrate of fatty acid synthesis, was also an inhibitor of fatty acid oxidation. Subsequent experiments have borne out this finding and furthered our understanding of molecular metabolism.
Earth science: Lasting earthquake legacy.

Earthquakes occur within continental tectonic plates as well as at plate boundaries. Do clusters of such mid-plate events constitute zones of continuing hazard, or are they aftershocks of long-past earthquakes?
Enhanced electron flux and reduced calmodulin dissociation may explain "calcium-independent" eNOS activation by phosphorylation.

Abstract Bovine endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) is phosphorylated directly by the protein kinase Akt at serine 1179. Mutation of this residue to the negatively charged aspartate (S1179D eNOS) increases nitric oxide (NO) production constitutively, in the absence of agonist challenge. Here, we examine the potential mechanism of how aspartate at 1179 increases eNOS activity using purified proteins. Examination of NO production and cytochrome creduction resulted in no substantial changes in theK m/EC50 for l-arginine, calmodulin, and calcium, whereas there was a 2-fold increase in the rate of NO production for S1179D and a 2–4-fold increase in reductase activity (based on cytochrome c reduction). The observed increase in activity for both assays of NOS function indicates that a faster rate of electron flux through the reductase domain is likely the rate-limiting step in NO formation from eNOS. In addition, S1179D eNOS did show an increased resistance to inactivation by EGTA compared with wild type eNOS. These results suggest that a negative charge imposed at serine 1179, either by phosphorylation or by replacement with aspartate, increases eNOS catalytic activity by increasing electron flux at the reductase domain and by reducing calmodulin dissociation from activated eNOS when calcium levels are low.
First record of ostriches (Aves, Struthioniformes, Struthionidae) from the late Miocene of Bulgaria with taxonomic and zoogeographic discussion

Boev Z. & Spassov N. 2009. — First record of ostriches (Aves, Struthioniformes, Struthionidae) from the late Miocene of Bulgaria with taxonomic and zoogeographic discussion. Geodiversitas 31 (3): 493-507.
The limitations of limitations

The authors consider human-centered computing, and argue that human factors and applied cognitive psychologists have not just been selective in regarding certain human characteristics as limitations, but have also selected the wrong things and for the wrong reasons.
The Impact of a 25-Cent-Per-Drink Alcohol Tax Increase

Background Excessive alcohol consumption causes 79,000 deaths annually in the U.S., shortening the lives of those who die from it by approximately 30 years. Although alcohol taxation is an effective measure to reduce excessive consumption and related harm, some argue that increasing alcohol taxes places an unfair economic burden on "responsible" drinkers and socially disadvantaged people. Purpose To examine the impact of a hypothetic tax increase based on alcohol consumption and sociodemographic characteristics of current drinkers, individually and in aggregate. Methods Data from the 2008 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey were analyzed from 2010 to 2011 to determine the net financial impact of a hypothetic 25-cent-per-drink tax increase on current drinkers in the U.S. Higher-risk drinkers were defined as those whose past-30-day consumption included binge drinking, heavy drinking, drinking in excess of the U.S. Dietary Guidelines, and alcohol-impaired driving. Results Of U.S. adults who consumed alcohol in the past 30 days, 50.4% (or approximately 25% of the total U.S. population) were classified as higher-risk drinkers. The tax increase would result in a 9.2% reduction in alcohol consumption, including an 11.4% reduction in heavy drinking. Compared with lower-risk drinkers, higher-risk drinkers would pay 4.7 times more in net increased annual per capita taxes, and 82.7% of the net increased annual aggregate taxes. Lower-risk drinkers would pay less than $30 in net increased taxes annually. In aggregate, groups who paid the most in net tax increases included those who were white, male, aged 21–50 years, earning ≥$50,000 per year, employed, and had a college degree. Conclusions A 25-cent-per-drink alcohol tax increase would reduce excessive drinking, and higher-risk drinkers would pay the substantial majority of the net tax increase.
Bioenergy development in Kentucky: A SWOT-ANP analysis

Abstract A hybrid Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats–Analytic Network Process (SWOT-ANP) framework was used to assess further development of biomass-based energy production in Kentucky. SWOT-ANP analyses were conducted with a focus group of forest policy experts in a statewide symposium on bioenergy development. Results show that participants perceive negative aspects associated with bioenergy development in Kentucky as more important than positive aspects. This suggests that various negative factors associated with bioenergy development may have to be addressed for ensuring its successful adoption in Kentucky. Results also show that factors influencing bioenergy development in Kentucky are interrelated and that SWOT-ANP can account for some of these interrelations.
Avoidance of a distressed conspecific

Albino rats previously trained to run to sucrose reinforcers in both arms of a T maze later avoided the arm which would result in shock to another rat.
CAMAC control of diverse data acquisition instrumentation

A distributed data-acquisition network has been designed and implemented for the conversion of the LLNL nuclear chemistry counting facility into a modern research facility. A major task of the conversion was to provide support for diverse nuclear instrumentation using the CAMAC instrumentation standard. The data-acquisition network and the counting-system workstations are described, and the design and implementation of the CAMAC subsystem incorporated into the data-acquisition network are discussed. The scaler/timer system, the sample changers, and the workstations software are examined in some detail. >
Linking childhood sexual abuse and abusive parenting: the mediating role of maternal anger

Objective: This study had two primary objectives: First, to examine the association between childhood sexual abuse (CSA) and later parenting characteristics, particularly physical abuse potential, and second, to explore maternal anger as a mediator of the relationship between CSA and adult physical abuse potential. Method: Utilized a community sample of low SES participants that included 138 mothers classified as having experienced CSA, and a comparison group of 152 non-sexually abused mothers. Parenting variables examined included the mothers' physical abuse potential, nurturance toward their children, unrealistic developmental expectations of children, as well as frequencies of spanking and general punishment. Data was collected via interview and other self-report measures. Results: Even after controlling for mothers' childhood experience of physical abuse, CSA significantly predicted adult risk of physically abusing one's own children. Further, maternal anger was confirmed as a mediator of the relationship between having been sexually abused as a child and the potential for physically abusing one's own children. Conclusions: CSA may be a risk factor for subsequent physically abusive parenting, while anger appears to playa significant role in mediating this relationship. Findings are discussed in the context of current knowledge concerning the impact of child sexual abuse and the processes contributing to abusive parenting.
3D motion estimation using expansion matching and KL based canonical images

This paper describes a novel approach to 3D motion estimation of planar objects based on eigen-normalization, expansion matching (EXM) and a scaled orthographic projection model. Our approach leads to a comprehensive temporal description of all degrees of freedom in 3D (3 rotations and 3 translations). The 3D motion parameters of the objects are approximated by the corresponding affine parameters. The objects in each frame of a video sequence are normalized to a set of canonical images using principal component normalization procedure. The normalization approach here is based on principal components of the intensity weighted spatial values and not on the intensity values as in works such as eigenfaces. The canonical images generated differ only in orientation. Expansion matching (EXM) is then used to find the differences in orientation. Affine transformations between the shapes also are derived. The pose of the shape in 3D space can therefore be estimated. Experiments on video sequences of planar and quasi-planar objects show robust estimation of the real 3D rotations and translations of the objects in motion.
Talking Shape: Parental Language with Electronic versus Traditional Shape Sorters.

As the traditional toys of the past are quickly being replaced with electronically “enhanced” toys, it is important to understand how these changes impact parent–child interactions, especially in light of the evidence that the richness and variety of these interactions have long-term effects on diverse areas of cognition (Hart & Risley, 1995). Here, we compared the quantity and quality of the language children hear during play with either a traditional (nonelectronic) or an electronic shape sorter designed to teach children about geometric shapes. Spatial toys and spatial language, in particular, were explored since recent work has established that parents' use of spatial language links to children's short- and long-term performance on spatial tasks (Pruden, Levine, & Huttenlocher, 2011), and that spatial skills are relevant to success in learning mathematics and science (Newcombe, 2010). Traditional toys prompted more parental spatial language and more varied overall language than did electronic toys.
Usable Content in a Post-Document World

The Usable Content Project aims to develop a set of useful paradigms for the analysis, design, and testing of usable content in a post-document world. In planning work supported by the STC, we have brought together a multidisciplinary team of Rensselaer faculty and students to explore a variety of post-document exemplars and develop an over-arching framework for what makes them usable. Our suggestion is that post-documents move users from control through identity and toward community, using a process clearly different from traditional documents. As a consequence, traditional metrics of usability ? efficiency, accuracy, and satisfaction ? are no longer adequate for post-documents.
Folk Play: A New Technique.

information and the rapid rate of change, we would probably have to de-program students constantly in order to correct and update all the data. Were it possible to achieve this information overload, we would still not be able to keep abreast of the job. How then do we as teachers prepare kids for the kinds of decisions they must make and the problems they will have in the year 2000? With all respect for the past, the solution is to develop the creative and critical intellect of students with vision toward the undefined, unknown problems of the future. As educators we must attempt to refine the skills of our students as problem solvers and enable them to analyze, hypothesize, recognize alternatives, and make thoughtful decisions based on the examination of data. It is less information recall than aptitudes we must endeavor to develop in our children. Thus, we must try to construct the kind of learning environment that enhances the creative and critical intellect of students.
A Role for Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase in the Completion of Macropinocytosis and Phagocytosis by Macrophages

Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI 3-kinase) has been implicated in growth factor signal transduction and vesicular membrane traffic. It is thought to mediate the earliest steps leading from ligation of cell surface receptors to increased cell surface ruffling. We show here that inhibitors of PI 3-kinase inhibit endocytosis in macrophages, not by interfering with the initiation of the process but rather by preventing its completion. Consistent with earlier studies, the inhibitors wortmannin and LY294002 inhibited fluid-phase pinocytosis and Fc receptor-mediated phagocytosis, but they had little effect on the receptor-mediated endocytosis of diI-labeled, acetylated, low density lipoprotein. Large solute probes of endocytosis reported greater inhibition by wortmannin than smaller probes did, indicating that macropinocytosis was affected more than micropinocytosis. Since macropinocytosis and phagocytosis are actin-mediated processes, we expected that their inhibition by wortmannin resulted from deficient signaling from macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) receptors or Fc receptors to the actin cytoskeleton. However, video microscopy showed cell surface ruffling in wortmannin-treated cells, and increased ruffling after addition of M-CSF or phorbol myristate acetate. Quantitative measurements of video data reported slightly diminished ruffling in wortmannin-treated cells. Remarkably, the ruffles that formed in wortmannin-treated macrophages all receded into the cytoplasm without closing into macropinosomes. Similarly, wortmannin and LY294002 did not inhibit the extension of actin-rich pseudopodia along IgG-opsonized sheep erythrocytes, but instead prevented them from closing into phagosomes. These findings indicate that PI 3-kinase is not necessary for receptor-mediated stimulation of pseudopod extension, but rather functions in the closure of macropinosomes and phagosomes into intracellular organelles.