cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Targeted Overexpression of Androgen Receptor in Osteoblasts: Unexpected Complex Bone Phenotype in Growing Animals

The androgen receptor (AR), as a classic steroid receptor, generally mediates biologic responses to androgens. In bone tissue, both AR and the estrogen receptor (ER) are expressed in a variety of cell types. Because androgens can be converted into estrogen via aromatase activity, the specific role of the AR in maintenance of skeletal homoeostasis remains controversial. The goal of this study was to use skeletally targeted overexpression of AR as a means of elucidating the specific role(s) for AR transactivation in bone homeostasis. Rat AR cDNA was cloned downstream of a 3.6-kb alpha1(I)-collagen promoter fragment and used to create AR-transgenic mice. AR-transgenic males gain less weight and body and femur length is shorter than wild-type controls, whereas females are not different. AR-transgenic males also demonstrate thickened calvaria and increased periosteal but reduced endosteal labeling by fluorescent labeling and reduced osteocalcin levels. High-resolution micro-computed tomography shows normal mineral content in both male and female AR-transgenic mice, but male AR-transgenics reveal a reduction in cortical area and moment of inertia. Male AR-transgenics also demonstrate an altered trabecular morphology with bulging at the metaphysis. Histomorphometric analysis of trabecular bone parameters confirmed the increased bone volume comprised of more trabeculae that are closer together but not thicker. Biomechanical analysis of the skeletal phenotype demonstrate reduced stiffness, maximum load, post-yield deflection, and work-to-failure in male AR-transgenic mice. Steady-state levels of selected osteoblastic and osteoclastic genes are reduced in tibia from both male and female transgenics, with the exception of increased osteoprotegerin expression in male AR-transgenic mice. These results indicate that AR action is important in the development of a sexually dimorphic skeleton and argue for a direct role for androgen transactivation of AR in osteoblasts in modulating skeletal development and homeostasis.
Nanocomposite Route to Ultra-sensitive Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering Substrates

We show a novel route to prepare SERS substrates, which is based on polymer–metal nanocomposites with a specific structure and composition just below the percolation threshold. The neighboring nanoparticles are still quite densely packed, but remain separated by narrow polymer gaps (<1 nm). Such a nanostructure allows the creation of densely packed hot spots where electromagnetic energy can be confined. The polymer–metal nanocomposites are fabricated by a simple and single-step method of electron-beam-assisted vapor-phase co-deposition. The preparation of the SERS substrates is based on a simple plasma-etching process, which removes the polymer structures that allow the formation of metal nanoparticle SERS nano-aggregates with very uniform and controllable inter-particle gaps. The method results in “ideal SERS hot spots” throughout the matrix. These hot spots can be created over very large areas. The prepared SERS substrates are promising candidates for the direct detection (label-free) and analysis of various biological and chemical samples.
The blended librarian : A job announcement analysis of the newly emerging position of Instructional Design Librarian

This exploratory study uses job advertisements from periodicals (College and Research Libraries News, Library Journal, and The Chronicle of Higher Education), a job discussion list (libjobs), and an employment Web site (Educause) from 1999–2004 to investigate position announcements of the newly emerging position of Instructional Design Librarian. Ten unique position announcements were identified and examined to determine the positions’ qualifications and job responsibilities. The research reveals some notable similarities and differences among these positions and identifies a broad set of key characteristics.
Computer Recognition of Cardiac Arrhythmias and Statistical Approaches to Arrhythmia Analysis

The recognition of marked spontaneous variability in the frequency of ventricular ectopy has required the analysis of various statistical approaches to define appropriate guidelines for determining that a therapeutic agent, rather than spontaneous variability alone, is the cause of an observed reduction in VPC frequency. Analysis of variance or linear regression techniques have been applied to ambulatory ECG data obtained on different patient population groups. When similar patient groups are studied with comparable assumptions, then either of these statistical techniques provides similar guidelines to detect spontaneous variation as the cause of ventricular ectopic reduction. A 75% minimal reduction in VPC frequency should be required when comparing one 24-hour ambulatory monitoring period with another. The impact of spontaneous variability of ventricular ectopy on clinical trial designs is discussed, as is the categorization of various ambulatory ECG monitoring recorders and analysis systems.
The Ribosome Challenge to the RNA World

An RNA World that predated the modern world of polypeptide and polynucleotide is one of the most widely accepted models in origin of life research. In this model, the translation system shepherded the RNA World into the extant biology of DNA, RNA, and protein. Here, we examine the RNA World Hypothesis in the context of increasingly detailed information available about the origins, evolution, functions, and mechanisms of the translation system. We conclude that the translation system presents critical challenges to RNA World Hypotheses. Firstly, a timeline of the RNA World is problematic when the ribosome is incorporated. The mechanism of peptidyl transfer of the ribosome appears distinct from evolved enzymes, signaling origins in a chemical rather than biological milieu. Secondly, we have no evidence that the basic biochemical toolset of life is subject to substantive change by Darwinian evolution, as required for the transition from the RNA world to extant biology. Thirdly, we do not see specific evidence for biological takeover of ribozyme function by protein enzymes. Finally, we can find no basis for preservation of the ribosome as ribozyme or the universality of translation, if it were the case that other information transducing ribozymes, such as ribozyme polymerases, were replaced by protein analogs and erased from the phylogenetic record. We suggest that an updated model of the RNA World should address the current state of knowledge of the translation system.
Altered profile of transcription factor-binding activities in senescent human fibroblasts

Normal eukaryotic cells divide a limited number of times, after which they enter a state of irreversible growth arrest and altered function termed senescence. Cell senescence entails changes in the expression of growth- and differentiation-specific genes, suggesting that senescent cells express an altered profile of transcription factors. Nuclear extracts were prepared from presenescent (quiescent and growing) and senescent human fibroblasts (WI-38) and from SV40-immortalized WI-38 cells and Y79 human retinoblastoma tumor cells--both of which have escaped senescence. The extracts were assayed for ability to form specific protein-DNA complexes with oligonucleotides containing binding sites for the general transcription factors CTF (CAAT-binding transcription factor), SP1 (promotor-specific transcription factor-1), and TFIID (transcription factor-IID) and the more gene-specific factors AP1 (activator protein factor-1), CREBP (cAMP response element-binding protein), GREBP (glucocorticoid response element-binding protein), NF-kappa B (nuclear factor kappa B) and OctBP (octamer-binding protein). Two TFIID complexes and the GREBP, NF-kappa B, and SP1 complexes were similar in presenescent and senescent cells. AP1, CREBP, and CTF complexes were reduced in senescent cells. Two activities were more abundant in senescent cells: OctBP and one TFIID complex. This TFIID complex was present in quiescent cells, but absent from four human cell lines that lack a functional retinoblastoma protein (pRb); both pRb-specific and TFIID-specific antibodies selectively disrupted it. The data suggest that an altered profile of transcription factors may specify the senescent phenotype and that pRb may interact with TFIID or a TFIID-associated protein(s).
Best approximation by normal operators

Abstract The problem of approximating an arbitrary operator on Hilbert space by normal operators is studied, with special emphasis on those operators which admit zero as a best normal approximant.
A width-independent sequential thinning algorithm

We propose a new sequential width-independent thinning algorithm for binary images. The algorithm uses a 4-neighbor distance transformation, and is designed to preserve the topological properties and shape of the object to be thinned. Comparison of the run time with a standard algorithm is given.
Target-directed catalytic metallodrugs

Most drugs function by binding reversibly to specific biological targets, and therapeutic effects generally require saturation of these targets. One means of decreasing required drug concentrations is incorporation of reactive metal centers that elicit irreversible modification of targets. A common approach has been the design of artificial proteases/nucleases containing metal centers capable of hydrolyzing targeted proteins or nucleic acids. However, these hydrolytic catalysts typically provide relatively low rate constants for target inactivation. Recently, various catalysts were synthesized that use oxidative mechanisms to selectively cleave/inactivate therapeutic targets, including HIV RRE RNA or angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE). These oxidative mechanisms, which typically involve reactive oxygen species (ROS), provide access to comparatively high rate constants for target inactivation. Target-binding affinity, co-reactant selectivity, reduction potential, coordination unsaturation, ROS products (metal-associated vs metal-dissociated; hydroxyl vs superoxide), and multiple-turnover redox chemistry were studied for each catalyst, and these parameters were related to the efficiency, selectivity, and mechanism(s) of inactivation/cleavage of the corresponding target for each catalyst. Important factors for future oxidative catalyst development are 1) positioning of catalyst reduction potential and redox reactivity to match the physiological environment of use, 2) maintenance of catalyst stability by use of chelates with either high denticity or other means of stabilization, such as the square planar geometric stabilization of Ni- and Cu-ATCUN complexes, 3) optimal rate of inactivation of targets relative to the rate of generation of diffusible ROS, 4) targeting and linker domains that afford better control of catalyst orientation, and 5) general bio-availability and drug delivery requirements.
Geochemistry and mineralogy of sediments from the Ventersdorp and Transvaal Supergroups, South Africa: Cratonic evolution during the early Proterozoic

Approximately 100 pelite and 12 quartzite samples from the Ventersdorp (~2.7 Ga) and Transvaal Supergroups (~2.6–2.1 Ga) have been analyzed to monitor the early Proterozoic evolution of the Kaapvaal Craton, southern Africa. From oldest to youngest, pelites were sampled from the Ventersdorp-Bothaville (BOT), Transvaal-Selati (SEL), Black Reef (BR), Timeball Hill (TH), Strubenkop (STR), and Silverton (SIL) Formations. Paleocurrent measurements in Transvaal quartzites indicate sources lying predominantly to the north and east. Relative to the BOT-SEL-BR, pelites from the TH-STR-SIL are enriched in heavy-REE, LILE, Zr, Hf, Nb, and Ta, depleted in K2O, MgO, Ni, and Cr, and have lower Cr/Zr, Sc/Th, K2O/Na2O, and K/ Rb ratios. Compared to SEL-BR, BOT-TH-STR-SIL pelites have higher light-REE contents and La/Yb ratios, and lower Eu/Eu∗ ratios (0.61–0.66). Relative to NASC (North American Shale Composite), THSTR-SIL pelites are enriched in light-REE, Th, U, Ta, Nb, Sc, Cs, have higher La/Yb ratios, and are depleted in K2O and MgO. BOT-SEL-BR pelites are enriched in K2O, MgO, Cr, and Ni, have higher K2O/Na2O, Sc/Th, and Eu/Eu∗ ratios, and are depleted in Th, U, heavy-REE, and High Field Strength Elements (HFSE) relative to NASC. Compositions of TH-STR-SIL pelites suggest a provenance similar to average Phanerozoic uppercontinental crust. This source is more evolved than that of BOT-SEL-BR pelites, indicating a transformation from primitive (mafic-rich) to evolved (felsic-rich) upper-crust at 2.2 Ga. This transition follows earlier primitive to evolved trends in Moodies-Pongola (3.3-3.0 Ga) and Witwatersrand (~2.8 Ga) successions. These data suggest that several cycles of changing upper-continental crust occurred in the Kaapvaal craton between 3.3-2.1 Ga.
Decay Accelerating Activity of Complement Receptor Type 1 (CD35): TWO ACTIVE SITES ARE REQUIRED FOR DISSOCIATING C5 CONVERTASES *

The goal of this study was to identify the site(s) in CR1 that mediate the dissociation of the C3 and C5 convertases. To that end, truncated derivatives of CR1 whose extracellular part is composed of 30 tandem repeating modules, termed complement control protein repeats (CCPs), were generated. Site 1 (CCPs 1–3) alone mediated the decay acceleration of the classical and alternative pathway C3 convertases. Site 2 (CCPs 8–10 or the nearly identical CCPs 15–17) had one-fifth the activity of site 1. In contrast, for the C5 convertase, site 1 had only 0.5% of the decay accelerating activity, while site 2 had no detectable activity. Efficient C5 decay accelerating activity was detected in recombinants that carried both site 1 and site 2. The activity was reduced if the intervening repeats between site 1 and site 2 were deleted. The results indicate that, for the C5 convertases, decay accelerating activity is mediated primarily by site 1. A properly spaced site 2 has an important auxiliary role, which may involve its C3b binding capacity. Moreover, using homologous substitution mutagenesis, residues important in site 1 for dissociating activity were identified. Based on these results, we generated proteins one-fourth the size of CR1 but with enhanced decay accelerating activity for the C3 convertases.
A Hybrid Approach to Feature Segmentation of Triangle Meshes

Abstract Segmentation of a polygonal mesh is a method of breaking the mesh down into ‘meaningful’ connected subsets of meshes called regions or features. Several methods have been proposed in the past and they are either vertex based or edge based. The vertex method used here is based on the watershed segmentation scheme which appears prominently in the image segmentation literature and was later applied to the 3D segmentation problem [9] , [10] . Its main drawback is that it is a vertex based method and no hard boundaries (edges) are created for the features or regions. Edge based methods rely on the dihedral angle between polygon faces to determine if the common edge should be classified as a Feature Edge. However, this method results in many disconnected edges and thereby incomplete feature loops. We propose a hybrid method which takes advantage of both methods mentioned earlier and create regions with complete feature loops. Satisfactory results have been achieved for both CAD parts as well as other laser scanned objects such as bones and ceramic vessels.
Marginal zone B-cell lymphoma: a retrospective immunophenotypic analysis.

Background: Marginal zone B-cell lymphoma (MZL) comprises three related yet biologically distinct subtypes—splenic MZL (SMZL), nodal MZL (NMZL), and extranodal MZL of MALT type (MALT). In cases without adequate morphology, immunophenotypic characterization by flow cytometric immunophenotyping (FCI) relies heavily on exclusion of other low-grade lymphomas. We performed a retrospective review of FCI studies of MZL to search for immunophenotypes specific for MZL and its subtypes. We compared these to follicular lymphoma (FL) as we were specifically interested in differentiating MZL from CD10 negative FL. Design: FCI findings for MZL and FL cases were reviewed. Statistical analysis of patterns and intensity of antigen expression [mean channel fluorescence (MCF)] were performed. Results: Thirty-one cases of MZL (7 SMZL, 6 NMZL, 15 MALT, 3 MZL not otherwise specified) and 31 cases of FL were identified. All expressed CD19, CD20, and CD45. Thirty-two percent of MZL and 77% of FL expressed CD38. Expression of CD11c was seen in 57% of SMZL and 8% of other MZL (P < 0.01). Statistically significant differences in antigen expression between MZL and FL were seen for CD10, CD11c, and CD38. CD19 expression was significantly brighter in MZL (mean MCF of 455.3) than in FL (mean MCF of 166.9) (P < 0.001). MCF for isotype controls and CD20 were similar for FL and MZL. Conclusions: MZL expresses typical pan-B-cell antigens. Expression of CD11c is highly associated with SMZL. Levels of CD19 expression in conjunction with CD11c and CD38 expression can distinguish MZL from CD10 negative FL. © 2008 Clinical Cytometry Society
Anthropology, the indigenous and human rights: Which billiard balls matter most?:

Anthropology is uniquely positioned to open a new dimension of critical human rights discourse based on engaging indigenous rights. Moving toward a critical anthropology of human rights begins from the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. The charge that this document reifies ‘indigenous’ and ‘rights’ is examined in light of reifications such as ‘primitive’ and ‘tribe’, referencing Eric Wolf’s assertion that cultures, societies and nations should not be treated as if they were bounded ‘billiard balls’. In reframing rights, Marx’s (1844) and others’ insights on human collectivity are useful. This reframing perforce questions the ipso facto legitimacy of nation-statism.
FACTS AND FALLACIES OF PURPORTED ERGOGENIC AMINO ACID SUPPLEMENTS

Although current research suggests that individuals involved in either high-intensity resistance or endurance exercise may have an increased need for dietary protein, the available research is either equivocal or negative relative to the ergogenic effects of supplementation with individual amino acids. Although some research suggests that the induction of hyperaminoacidemia via intravenous infusion of a balanced amino acid mixture may induce an increased muscle protein synthesis after exercise, no data support the finding that oral supplementation with amino acids, in contrast to dietary protein, as the source of amino acids is more effective. Some well-controlled studies suggest that aspartate salt supplementation may enhance endurance performance, but other studies do not, meriting additional research. Current data, including results for several well-controlled studies, indicated that supplementation with arginine, ornithine, or lysine, either separately or in combination, does not enhance the effect of exercise stimulation on either hGH or various measures of muscular strength or power in experienced weightlifters. Plasma levels of BCAA and tryptophan may play important roles in the cause of central fatigue during exercise, but the effects of BCAA or tryptophan supplementation do not seem to be effective ergogenics for endurance exercise performance, particularly when compared with carbohydrate supplementation, a more natural choice. Although glutamine supplementation may increase plasma glutamine levels, its effect on enhancement of the immune system and prevention of adverse effects of the overtraining syndrome are equivocal. Glycine, a precursor for creatine, does not seem to possess the ergogenic potential of creatine supplementation. Research with metabolic by-products of amino acid metabolism is in its infancy, and current research findings are equivocal relative to ergogenic applications. In general, physically active individuals are advised to obtain necessary amino acids through consumption of natural, high-quality protein foods.
The Use of Conditional Simulation in Nuclear-Waste-Site Performance Assessment

Stochastic simulation methodology is becoming an important tool for evaluating the performance of potential nuclear-waste repositories. This article presents an overview of such methodology as it is currently used in many waste-management applications. Details involved with the statistical and geostatistical analyses of relevant hydrogeologic variables are provided in a simulation study of groundwater travel time through an aquifer overlying the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant repository in southeastern New Mexico.
Development of a robust mapping between AIS 2+ and ICD-9 injury codes.

Motor vehicle crashes result in millions of injuries and thousands of deaths each year in the United States. While most crash research datasets use Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) codes to identify injuries, most hospital datasets use the International Classification of Diseases, version 9 (ICD-9) codes. The objective of this research was to establish a one-to-one mapping between AIS and ICD-9 codes for use with motor vehicle crash injury research. This paper presents results from investigating different mapping approaches using the most common AIS 2+ injuries from the National Automotive Sampling System-Crashworthiness Data System (NASS-CDS). The mapping approaches were generated from the National Trauma Data Bank (NTDB) (428,637 code pairs), ICDMAP (2500 code pairs), and the Crash Injury Research and Engineering Network (CIREN) (4125 code pairs). Each approach may pair given AIS code with more than one ICD-9 code (mean number of pairs per AIS code: NTDB = 211, ICDMAP = 7, CIREN = 5), and some of the potential pairs are unrelated. The mappings were evaluated using two comparative metrics coupled with qualitative inspection by an expert physician. Based on the number of false mappings and correct pairs, the best mapping was derived from CIREN. AIS and ICD-9 codes in CIREN are both manually coded, leading to more proper mappings between the two. Using the mapping presented herein, data from crash and hospital datasets can be used together to better understand and prevent motor vehicle crash injuries in the future.
Thermal requirements for barley maturation and leaf development in interior Alaska

Abstract Spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is well adapted to the cool and short growing season of interior Alaska but little is known about thermal requirements for development and maturation of barley at such latitudes. Air temperature and barley development were monitored over the course of six growing seasons at Fairbanks (65°N) and Delta Junction (64°N), Alaska. These data were used to assess the base temperature (Tb) in the linear, thermal-unit model using the least variable, x-intercept, and regression coefficient methods. These methods indicated a range in Tb from 0°C to 1.5°C. At a Tb of 0°C, barley required nearly 1100°C d to mature. The phyllochron differed between early and late sowings and averaged 75°C d leaf−1. Sowing date appeared to influence the phyllochron during early vegetative growth due to differences in daylength as well as temperature.
Facilitating the Use of Sas under the VAX/VMS System

A command file permits the user of SAS Institute software to control the input and output file specifications. Such control facilitates the processing of data sets in both instructional and research settings.
Convergence and divergence in gene expression among natural populations exposed to pollution

Natural populations of the teleost fish Fundulus heteroclitus tolerate a broad range of environmental conditions including temperature, salinity, hypoxia and chemical pollutants. Strikingly, populations of Fundulus inhabit and have adapted to highly polluted Superfund sites that are contaminated with persistent toxic chemicals. These natural populations provide a foundation to discover critical gene pathways that have evolved in a complex natural environment in response to environmental stressors. We used Fundulus cDNA arrays to compare metabolic gene expression patterns in the brains of individuals among nine populations: three independent, polluted Superfund populations and two genetically similar, reference populations for each Superfund population. We found that up to 17% of metabolic genes have evolved adaptive changes in gene expression in these Superfund populations. Among these genes, two (1.2%) show a conserved response among three polluted populations, suggesting common, independently evolved mechanisms for adaptation to environmental pollution in these natural populations. Significant differences among individuals between polluted and reference populations, statistical analyses indicating shared adaptive changes among the Superfund populations, and lack of reduction in gene expression variation suggest that common mechanisms of adaptive resistance to anthropogenic pollutants have evolved independently in multiple Fundulus populations. Among three independent, Superfund populations, two genes have a common response indicating that high selective pressures may favor specific responses.
A method for accurate full spectrum testing without requiring coherency

Achieving coherent sampling to accurately estimate the spectral characteristics of a signal is a very challenging task. Though the Four point sine wave fitting method can be used to accurately estimate some spectral parameters of a non-coherently sampled signal, not all parameters can be estimated accurately. This paper proposes a method that can be used to accurately estimate ALL the spectral characteristics from the spectrum when a signal is not sampled coherently. The non-coherent fundamental and harmonics are accurately identified and replaced with their corresponding coherent signals to achieve accurate results. Simulation results show the effectiveness and robustness of the method.
A note on Fermat's problem

The General Fermat Problem asks for the minimum of the weighted sum of distances fromm points inn-space. Dozens of papers have been written on variants of this problem and most of them have merely reproduced known results. This note calls attention to the work of Weiszfeld in 1937, who may have been the first to propose an iterative algorithm. Although the same algorithm has been rediscovered at least three times, there seems to be no completely correct treatment of its properties in the literature. Such a treatment, including a proof of convergence, is the sole object of this note. Other aspects of the problem are given scant attention.
A critical review of adolescent substance abuse group treatments.

Objective: Evidence-based social work requires the use of interventions that are supported by good research evidence. This article reviews the empirical research on adolescent alcohol and other drug (AOD) abuse group treatments. Despite the popularity of group work, searches of the academic literature yielded only 13 adolescent group treatments for which AOD use outcomes have been reported. These treatments and the studies that evaluated them are systematically reviewed. Method: Methodological, efficacy rating, and treatment factor criteria are applied to these studies. Results: Statistically significant reductions in pre-, post-, and/or follow-up use rates of one or more substances were reported for 10 of the 13 reviewed treatments, but only two met Chambless and Hollon's (1998) criteria for “possible efficacy.” Similarities between the two possibly efficacious treatments, as well as among the three treatments with no indication of positive outcomes are described. A major limitation of the studies overal...
The isolation and characterization of an alkylating-agent-sensitive yeast mutant, ngs1.

Abstract We have isolated and characterized a mutant of baker's yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae , carrying the new mutation, ngs1 , which is sensitive to the toxic effects of monofunctional alkylating agents, but normal with respect to 254-nm ultraviolet light sensitivity. ngs1 mutants exhibited more or less normal reversion frequencies for his1-7 and ilv1-92 induced by each of these mutagens. The various sensitivities associated with ngs1 cosegregated and have been shown to be the result of a lesion in a single nuclear gene. Extracts of ngs1 and NGS1 + strains contained approximately equal levels of an activity that removes 3-methyl-adenine (3MA) and 7-methylguanine (7MG) from DNA in vitro. The mutation also depressed sporulation.
Oxidative stress is required for mechanical ventilation-induced protease activation in the diaphragm

Prolonged mechanical ventilation (MV) results in diaphragmatic weakness due to fiber atrophy and contractile dysfunction. Recent work reveals that activation of the proteases calpain and caspase-3 is required for MV-induced diaphragmatic atrophy and contractile dysfunction. However, the mechanism(s) responsible for activation of these proteases remains unknown. To address this issue, we tested the hypothesis that oxidative stress is essential for the activation of calpain and caspase-3 in the diaphragm during MV. Cause-and-effect was established by prevention of MV-induced diaphragmatic oxidative stress using the antioxidant Trolox. Treatment of animals with Trolox prevented MV-induced protein oxidation and lipid peroxidation in the diaphragm. Importantly, the Trolox-mediated protection from MV-induced oxidative stress prevented the activation of calpain and caspase-3 in the diaphragm during MV. Furthermore, the avoidance of MV-induced oxidative stress not only averted the activation of these proteases but also rescued the diaphragm from MV-induced diaphragmatic myofiber atrophy and contractile dysfunction. Collectively, these findings support the prediction that oxidative stress is required for MV-induced activation of calpain and caspase-3 in the diaphragm and are consistent with the concept that antioxidant therapy can retard MV-induced diaphragmatic weakness.
The Temple of Healing: Reflections from a Physician at the Movies

Dans's essay traces a moral shift in society and medicine through a review of cinematic representations of medicine in film from the 1960s and '70s to the present. He argues that medicine, like society, is groping to achieve a consensus on values. He voices concern over the movement from an adherence to the Hippocratic oath to an increase in moral pluralism, suggesting that the uncoupling of medicine from its ancient codes has altered the physician/patient relationship from a sacred covenant to a business contract.
Response deprivation and reinforcement in applied settings: A preliminary analysis

First-grade children engaged in seatwork behaviors under reinforcement schedules established according to the Premack Principle and the Response Deprivation Hypothesis. Across two experiments, schedules were presented to the children in a counter-balanced fashion which fulfilled the conditions of one, both, or neither of the hypotheses. Duration of on-task math and coloring in Experiment 1 and on-task math and reading in Experiment 2 were the dependent variables. A modified ABA-type withdrawal design, including a condition to control for the noncontingent effects of a schedule, indicated an increase of on-task instrumental responding only in those schedules where the condition of response deprivation was present but not where it was absent, regardless of the probability differential between the instrumental and contingent responses. These results were consistent with laboratory findings supporting the necessity of response deprivation for producing the reinforcement effect in single response, instrumental schedules. However, the results of the control procedure were equivocal so the contribution of the contingent relationship between the responses to the increases in instrumental behavior could not be determined. Nevertheless, these results provided tentative support for the Response Deprivation Hypothesis as a new approach to establishing reinforcement schedules while indicating the need for further research in this area. The possible advantages of this technique for applied use were identified and discussed.
Performance of Broilers with Different Methods of Debeaking

Abstract Broiler chicks were debeaked at one day and 10 days of age. These were compared to broiler chicks that were not debeaked. By the end of the first week the non-debeaked chicks were slightly heavier than those debeaked at one day of age but by the second week all three groups were approximately the same weight. The group debeaked at 10 days of age gained less the third week. At 8 weeks of age the non-debeaked group was heavier than the two debeaked groups. No difference was noted for the three groups as to feed efficiency or mortality.
Percolative conduction in three dimensions.

We employ finite-size scaling to analyze the critical behavior of large [up to (80${)}^{3}$] three-dimensional random resistor lattices. The ratio of the conductivity exponent t to the correlation length exponent \ensuremath{\nu} is found to be t/\ensuremath{\nu}=2.276\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.012. Combining this with the accepted value \ensuremath{\nu}=0.88\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.02 gives t=2.003\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.047, very close to the upper bound t=2 recently proposed by Golden. Studying the connectivity of lattices up to (200${)}^{3}$, we estimate that the bond percolation threshold ${\mathit{p}}_{\mathit{c}}$=0.2488 3\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.000 05, slightly smaller than some recent estimates, and have also confirmed the accepted value of \ensuremath{\nu}.
Customer Engagement and Behavioral Considerations

Customer Retention is more complex than ever before and there has been a dramatic change in how selling takes place (Jacob, 1994). There is even strong evidence that reveals US corporations lose half their customers in five years (Ganesh, Arnold, & Reynolds, 2000). Changes such as technological advances, a more frantic competitive climate, globalization, more demanding, sophisticated customers and even catastrophic crisis are some of the shifts in the business environment causing this (Stiglitz, 2003). The faster the economy changes, with new innovations and opportunities, creating more choices and options for customers, the harder it is to retain better informed and astute customers that can switch allegiance quickly, providing themselves with greater value and choice (Stiglitz, 2003).
Neonatal ablations of the amygdala and inferior temporal cortex alter the vocal response to social separation in rhesus macaques

Abstract Rhesus macaques that had received bilateral ablations to either the amygdala or area TE in inferior temporal cortex in the 1st week of life were briefly separated from familiar conspecifics at 10–14.5 months of age in order to assess the vocal response to this mild challenge. Sound spectrograms were subjected to quantitative analysis and compared with calls from normal, age-matched controls subjected to the same testing conditions. Animals with TE damage called at a higher rate than animals in the other two groups. TE subjects also produced more coos than controls. Males with TE lesions produced noisy calls at a higher rate than males of the other two groups. Females did not differ between groups in this measure. Analysis of the detailed acoustic structure of the ‘coo’ indicated significant differences in a measure of slope of the fundamental frequency (rate of frequency change over time) between amygdalectomized animals and those of the other 2 groups. The amygdalectomized monkeys produced calls with lower slope values, giving the calls a less inflected quality both in sonagrams and to the listener. These findings suggest an important role for the amygdala and inferior temporal cortex in regulating the vocal response to social separation during development.
Toward a ‘just’ sustainability?

Why should race and class, justice and equity play a role in sustainability? Has the current environmentally focused sustainability movement not done a good job? Irrespective of whether we take a g...
Vagal stimulation during muscarinic and β-adrenergic blockade increases atrial contractility and heart rate

Abstract We determined the effects of continuous cardiac vagal nerve stimulation on atrial contractility and on heart rate in mongrel dogs in which we blocked the muscarinic and β-adrenergic receptors. Each dog received atropine, 0.5 mg/kg and propranolol, 0.5–1 mg/kg. We stimulated the cardiac vagus nerves in each dog for three separate 5-min periods at frequencies of 0 (control), 20, and 40 Hz (5 ms, 15 V) and measured the changes in atrial contractility and heart rate. Vagal nerve stimulation increased right atrial contractility from the control value by 27% at 20 Hz and by 19% during stimulation at 40 Hz (P d -Phe6,Leu17]VIP, directly into the dog right coronary artery in concentrations of 0 (control), 2, and 4 μg/kg did not influence spontaneous atrial contractility or the heart rate. However, 4 μg/kg of the VIP antagonist significantly reduced the augmentation in right atrial contractility and the increase in heart rate during vagal nerve stimulation. Our experiments suggest that cardiac vagal nerve stimulation, during muscarinic and β-adrenergic receptor blockade, releases VIP or a ‘VIP-like substance’, that significantly augments atrial contractility and increases heart rate.
A study of the rotational-torsional spectrum of hydrogen peroxide between 80 and 700 GHz

One hundred and thirty-three new rotational transitions that occur between pairs of torsional sublevels in the ground vibrational state of hydrogen peroxide have been measured in the 80 to 700 GHz region of the spectrum. These data, in combination with the 50 previously measured lines, have been theoretically analyzed to within the expected experimental uncertainty (≲0.1 MHz). The rotational constants for the τ = 1, 2 state are (in MHz): A = 301 878.857 ± 0.015, B = 26 211.9019 ± 0.0059, C = 25 099.1400 ± 0.0059, and for the τ = 3, 4 state: A = 301 583.825 ± 0.075, B = 26 156.337 ± 0.13, C = 25 185.771 ± 0.13. The splitting between the torsional levels is 342 885.03 ± 0.05. These measurements and analysis accurately characterize the nine branches that make substantial contributions in the spectral region below 700 GHz.
The Idea of an Elephant: Ælfric of Eynsham, Epistemology, and the Absent Animals of Anglo-Saxon England

This essay argues that the elephants appearing in the works of AElfric of Eynsham, beyond their rhetorical purpose in containing the credulity of his unlearned audience, function as epistemological tokens. Although actual elephants were unknown in Anglo-Saxon England, a great deal of theoretical knowledge was available to AElfric. This essay examines the Anglo-Saxon discourse on Elephants more closely than any has done, drawing on historical, literary, and hexameral sources to suggest that AElfric followed in a tradition of using elephants as symbols of the attempt to perceive realities beyond our physical senses. The essay thus builds on and offers a differing perspective to previous essays in this area by Emily Thornbury [in Neophilologus 92 (2008)] and J.E. Cross.
Open field locomotor effects in rats after intraventricular injections of ethanol and the ethanol metabolites acetaldehyde and acetate

The typical response to acute peripheral administration of low to high doses of ethanol in rats is a dose-dependent depression of motor activity. Nevertheless, recent studies indicate that intraventricular (ICV) injections of ethanol can produce signs of behavioral activation. In addition, considerable evidence indicates that brain metabolism of ethanol is involved in modulating some of the behavioral effects of this drug, which suggests that ethanol may have active metabolites with central actions. The present study was undertaken to investigate the effects of ICV ethanol, and its two major metabolites acetaldehyde and acetate, on open field locomotor activity in rats. Male Sprague–Dawley rats received different doses of ethanol, acetaldehyde or acetate ICV and immediately were placed in an open field chamber in which locomotion was measured. Rats injected with ICV ethanol or acetaldehyde showed an inverted U-shaped dose–response curve, with moderate doses increasing motor activity. In contrast, acetate produced a dose-dependent decrease in motor activity. These results demonstrate that central administration of low doses of ethanol can increase locomotor activity in rats, and suggest that acetaldehyde may be an active metabolite of ethanol that also can facilitate locomotor activity. Moreover, it is possible that some of the motor suppression or sedation produced by ethanol is due to the central actions of acetate.
Rational design, synthesis, and structure-activity relationships of aryltriazoles as novel corticotropin-releasing factor-1 receptor antagonists

Following the discovery of the very high binding affinity of 4-anilinopyrimidines against corticotropin-releasing factor receptor-1 (CRF(1)) (e.g., 1, K(i) = 2 nM), a new series of triazoles bearing different groups has been synthesized and evaluated. The compounds were prepared by cyclizations of N-acyl-S-methylisothioureas with alkylhydrazines or by cyclizations with hydrazine followed by alkylation. While members of this series showed potent binding affinity against CRF(1) receptor, there were important differences between the different regio- (7 and 12) and stereoisomeric aryltriazoles where the R(1) or R(2) side chain in 7 has an asymmetric center. In terms of overall potency, aryltriazole analogues such as 7r bearing an N-(alpha-branched benzyl)-N-propylamino side chain were the most potent, followed by analogues such as 7a, with an N-bis(cyclopropyl)methyl-N-propylamino side chain, and analogues such as 7m, with an N-(alpha-branched aliphatic)-N-propylamino side chain. While the N-propyl group was crucial for high potency, we hypothesized that the terminal methyl mimicked the 5-methyl of pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidines 3 and 4. Correlation of the low-energy conformers of compounds of type 3 and 7 generated by computational analyses was very good. The size and shape of the N-alkyl group dramatically changed the potency of the triazoles, which is in contrast to the SAR seen for bicyclic CRF(1) antagonists. In general, the S-enantiomer was much more potent than the corresponding R-isomer. Furthermore, to a limited extent in the aryltriazole series the substituent on the 5-phenyl ring changed the potency up to 9-fold. (S)-1-Methyl-3-[N-(4-fluorophenylpentyl)-N-propyl]amino-5-(2-methoxy-4-dichlorophenyl)-1H-[1,2,4]triazole [(S)-7r] showed very potent binding affinity (K(i) = 2.7 nM) to CRF(1) receptors with an IC(50) of 49 nM in a cAMP inhibition assay.
The Local Union Revisited: New Voices from the Front Lines

This article revisits the description of local unions published in 1953 by Sayles and Strauss to see if locals in firms now transforming to meet the needs of the current economic environment also are changing in important ways. Locals are increasingly involved in areas of work previously considered the exclusive domain of management. These additional roles and responsibilities have required local leaders to develop new capacities that better fit current institutional needs.
Hfq affects the expression of the LEE pathogenicity island in enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli

Colonization of the intestinal epithelium by enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) is characterized by an attaching and effacing (A/E) histopathology. The locus of enterocyte effacement (LEE) pathogenicity island encodes many genes required for the A/E phenotype including the global regulator of EHEC virulence gene expression, Ler. The LEE is subject to a complex regulatory network primarily targeting ler transcription. The RNA chaperone Hfq, implicated in post-transcriptional regulation, is an important virulence factor in many bacterial pathogens. Although post-transcriptional regulation of EHEC virulence genes is known to occur, a regulatory role of Hfq in EHEC virulence gene expression has yet to be defined. Here, we show that an hfq mutant expresses increased levels of LEE-encoded proteins prematurely, leading to earlier A/E lesion formation relative to wild type. Hfq indirectly affects LEE expression in exponential phase independent of Ler by negatively controlling levels of the regulators GrlA and GrlR through post-transcriptional regulation of the grlRA messenger. Moreover, Hfq negatively affects LEE expression in stationary phase independent of GrlA and GrlR. Altogether, Hfq plays an important role in co-ordinating the temporal expression of the LEE by controlling grlRA expression at the post-transcriptional level.
Biopolitical Utopianism in Educational Theory

In this paper I shift the center of utopian debates away from questions of ideology towards the question of power. As a new point of departure, I analyze Foucault's notion of biopower as well as Hardt and Negri's theory of biopolitics. Arguing for a new hermeneutic of biopolitics in education, I then apply this lens to evaluate the educational philosophy of John Dewey. In conclusion, the paper suggests that while Hardt and Negri are missing an educational theory, John Dewey is missing a concept of democracy adequate to the biopolitical struggles of the multitude. Thus, I call for a synthesis of Dewey and Hardt and Negri in order to generate a biopedagogical practice beyond both traditional models of education as well as current standardization.
Analysis, design, and performance evaluation of flying-capacitor passive lossless snubber applied to PFC boost converter

A boost converter which employs a flying-capacitor passive lossless snubber to reduce the losses caused by the reverse-recovery characteristic of the boost rectifier is described. The passive snubber consists of a snubber inductor, two snubber rectifiers, and a snubber capacitor. The losses are reduced by inserting a snubber inductor in the series path of the boost switch and the rectifier to control the di/dt rate of the rectifier during it's turn-off. The snubber is analyzed and design guidelines are offered to achieve optimum performance. The proposed snubber is applied to a 500-W power factor corrected (PFC) boost converter which is designed to operate in the universal line range (90-264 V/sub RMS/). Performance evaluations of the proposed snubber are made and compared to the conventional boost converter with respect to efficiency and device temperature.
A bifurcation problem for a functional differential equation of finitely retarded type

Abstract In this paper we investigate the qualitative behavior of solutions near an equilibrium point of an autonomous functional differential equation of finitely retarded type. In particular, under certain appropriate hypotheses, we show that, as a certain parameter varies in a prescribed way, a family of one or more periodic orbits of the given equation bifurcates from the given equilibrium point. We also determine suitable stability properties of these closed orbits.
Analysis of the effects of linearity and efficiency of amplifiers in QAM systems

In this paper, we provide a comprehensive study on the performance of the quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) in the presence of nonlinear amplifiers. The study includes both in-band and out-of-band distortion by incorporating nonlinearity induced adjacent channel interference (ACI). Two objective functions proposed in the literature are studied: 1) total degradation and 2) total bit energy-to-noise power density ratio for a target bit error rate. We also consider both fixed and adaptive DC bias controlled amplifiers. The two objective functions result in identical designs in the case of fixed bias amplifiers but not in the case of adaptive bias controlled amplifiers. In the later case the second objective function is more useful.
Racing and Back-Pedalling into the Future: New Product Introduction and Organizational Mortality in the US Bicycle Industry, 1880-1918

We hypothesize that some overlap of production between and within product generations reduces firm mortality, as it allows firms to retain valuable routines. Excessive overlap, however, becomes harmful. An analysis of the effects of new product introduction on mortality rates among the population of US bicycle producers over 1880-1918 supports our hypotheses. Our results suggest the value of separating out the content effects of innovation, which are often positive, from the process effects which tend to be disruptive.