cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Public opinion on climate change in the USA: to what extent can it be nudged by questionnaire design features?

Policymakers may wish to take into account public opinion on climate change as they craft legislation, but if public opinion changes substantially in response to seemingly trivial changes in survey questionnaire design, perhaps such reliance would be unwise. This paper examines 110 experiments implemented in surveys of truly random samples of American adults between 2012 and 2018 (N=4414), exploring the extent to which answers to questions were influenced by order and wording manipulations. Of 144 tests, 31 (22%) yielded statistically significant effects. Adjustments for multiple hypothesis tests reduced this percentage to between 7 and 9%. The effect sizes are routinely small. These results are consistent with the conclusion that survey results on climate change issues are relatively robust, so policymakers can take them seriously if they wish to do so.
Constitutive signaling by the C-terminal fragment of polycystin-1 is mediated by a tethered peptide agonist

ABSTRACT Mutation of the PKD1 gene, encoding polycystin-1 (PC1), is the primary cause of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease. PC1 is an 11-transmembrane domain protein that binds and modulates the activity of multiple heterotrimeric G protein families and is thought to function as a non-canonical G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR). PC1 shares a conserved GPCR autoproteolysis inducing [GAIN] domain with the adhesion family of GPCRs, that promotes an auto-catalytic, cis-cleavage at the GPCR proteolysis site (GPS) located proximal to the first transmembrane domain. GPS cleavage divides these receptors into two associated ‘subunits’, the extracellular N-terminal (NTF) and transmembrane C-terminal (CTF) fragments. For the adhesion GPCRs, removal of the NTF leads to activation of G protein signaling as a result of the exposure and subsequent intramolecular binding of the extracellular N-terminal stalk of the CTF, i.e., the tethered cryptic ligand or tethered agonist model. Here, we test the hypothesis that PC1-mediated signaling is regulated by an adhesion GPCR-like, tethered agonist mechanism. Using cell-based reporter assays and mutagenesis of PC1 expression constructs, we show that the CTF form of PC1 requires the stalk for signaling activation and synthetic peptides derived from the PC1 stalk sequence can re-activate signaling by a ‘stalk-less’ CTF. In addition, we demonstrate that ADPKD-associated missense mutations within the PC1 stalk affect signaling and can inhibit GPS cleavage. These results provide a foundation for beginning to understand the molecular mechanism of G protein regulation by PC1 and suggest that a tethered agonist-mediated mechanism can contribute to PKD pathogenesis. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Mutations of the PKD1 gene, encoding polycystin-1, are the predominant cause of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), a systemic disease that is the 4th leading cause of kidney failure. Polycystin-1 functions as an atypical GPCR capable of binding or activating heterotrimeric G proteins, which is essential for preventing renal cystogenesis. However, little is known regarding its regulation. Polycystin-1 shares structural features with the Adhesion family of GPCRs. In this work, we combined mutagenesis and cellular signaling assays which demonstrated that constitutive activation of signaling by polycystin-1 involves an Adhesion GPCR-like molecular mechanism. This study provides new knowledge regarding the structure-function relationships of polycystin-1 which will stimulate additional areas of investigation and reveal novel avenues of therapeutic intervention for ADPKD.
Bistable Valves for MR Fluid-Based Soft Robotic Actuation Systems

Magnetorheological (MR) fluids have unique characteristics that make them well-suited for soft robotic actuation systems. Two particularly interesting applications are bistable valves and force-amplified grippers, which only require power to switch states. These design topologies can not only make MR fluid actuation systems more efficient, but can also allow them to be constructed from entirely compliant materials. In this work, we describe new bistable valve mechanism concepts; the first design is constructed using traditional rigid components while the second design is composed of entirely compliant materials. This includes liquid metal coils, compliant magnetic composites, and silicone flexures. The MR valve concept is modeled using magnetic field theory and scaling laws are determined from MR fluid holding pressure experiments. Then, experimental results are used to show that rough tubing surfaces can withhold an average of 5× more pressure than smooth tubing surfaces. Both rigid and compliant valve topologies are then constructed and tested, showing the ability to hold up to 88 kPa and 37 kPa of pressure, respectively. These valves are then implemented for controlling a soft multi-fingered PneuNet gripper and a new force-amplified MR fluid gripper, which has the ability to provide up to 324 $\%$ higher load capacity than purely pressure-driven mechanisms (with the addition of a 25 mm diameter and 12.7 mm thick Nd-Fe-B magnet). Finally, we show how these bistable valves and grippers can be used for grasping and manipulation applications.
The Impact of Legal Abortion on Maternal Health: Looking to the Past to Inform the Present

From 1959 to 1980, abortion-related mortality declined by 97%, and maternal mortality fell by 86%. In this study, we question whether the legalization of abortion over 1969-1973 explains a portion of this maternal mortality decline. Our results suggest that legal abortion reduced non-white maternal mortality by 30-40%, with little impact on overall or white maternal mortality. We also find that early state-level legalizations were crucial, and explain more of the observed mortality decline than the Roe v. Wade decision itself. Overall, our findings suggest that legal abortion substantially improved maternal health for disadvantaged groups.
Adaptive hough transform with optimized deep learning followed by dynamic time warping for hand gesture recognition

Hand gesture is a natural interaction method, and hand gesture recognition is familiar in human–computer interaction. Yet, the variations, as well as the complexity of hand gestures such as self-structural characteristics, views, and illuminations, made hand gesture recognition as a challenging task. Nowadays, the human–computer interaction area enhancement leads to putting interest in the dynamic hand gesture segmentation based on the gesture recognition system. Apart from the lengthy clinical success, dynamic hand gesture segmentation through webcam vision seems challenging due to the light effects, partial occlusion, and complicated environment. Hence, to segment the entire hand gesture region and enhance the segmentation accuracy, this paper develops an improved segmentation and deep learning-based strategy for dynamic hand gesture recognition. The data is gathered from the ISL benchmark dataset that consists of both static as well as dynamic images. The initial process of the proposed model is the pre-processing, which is being performed by grey scale conversion and histogram equalization. Further, the segmentation of gestures is done by the novel Adaptive Hough Transform (AHT), where the theta angle is tuned. Once the segmentation of gestures is done, the optimized Deep Convolutional Neural Network (Deep CNN) is used for gesture recognition. The learning rate, epoch count, and hidden neurons are tuned by the same heuristic concept. As the main contribution, the segmentation and classification are enhanced by the hybridization of Electric Fish Optimization (EFO), and Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA) called Electric Fish-based Whale Optimization Algorithm (E-WOA). The training of optimized Deep CNN is handled by Dynamic Time Warping (DTW) for avoiding redundant frames, thus enhancing the performance of dynamic hand gestures. Quantitative measurement is accomplished for evaluating hand gesture segmentation and recognition, which portrays the superior behaviour of the proposed model.
Microstructure and the fracture behaviou of a Ti-24Al-11Nb intermetallic

The results of a study of the effects of heat treatment on the microstructure and fracture behaviour of an α2-based Ti-24Al-11Nb intermetallic are reported in this paper. The effects of cooling rate, annealing temperature and annealing duration on the microstructure are discussed in detail. Room- and elevated-temperature fracture mechanisms are elucidated. Toughening is shown to mainly occur by crack-tip blunting, and to a lesser extent via crack bridging and crack deflection mechanisms. A new micromechanics model is presented for the estimation of the shielding due to crack-tip blunting.
A factor analysis of the preferred learning styles of Industrial Technology and Engineering undergraduate students at North Carolina Agriculture and Technical State University and at Iowa State University

This study examined the learning style preferences of African American and European American undergraduate students in the Industrial Technology and Engineering programs at North Carolina A&T State University and Iowa State University. In this study, the independent variables employed were ethnicity, discipline, and the named institutions. The dependent variables were the 20 learning style preferences in the Productivity Environmental Survey (PEPS). Convenience sampling was used to collect 540 students. A factor analysis was used to determine the preferred learning styles for African American and European American students at each institution. In addition, the hypotheses were tested by the Box's M test in the discriminant analysis. The hypotheses were tested at an a priori level of .05 to ascertain significant differences in the factor structures or groups. The findings of the study concluded that 1) there were differences in the factor loading profiles of African American and European American students at each institution, regardless of discipline, and 2) there were no differences between the factor loading profiles of Industrial Technology and Engineering students at either institution. Further analyses were generated to determine additional findings on African American and European American learning styles within their respective disciplines. The analyses consisted of examining if there were differences between factor loading profiles by combining both ethnic groups from each program, regardless of institution. The findings concluded that there were no differences between the factor loading profiles of the students enrolled in the two programs.
A comparison of histomorphometric data collection methods.

Although many variables that skeletal biologists examine have been standardized, the actual techniques used to collect these data from bone thin sections vary. This project compares different methods of obtaining data (relative cortical area values) for histomorphometric research. One visual and three digital methods of histomorphometric data collection are compared: (i) Merz microscopic eyepiece counting reticule, (ii) flatbed scanner, (iii) overlaying multiple images of a thin section, and (iv) digital SLR camera with macro settings. The discussion includes a comparison of usability factors such as cost, time, user-experience, and ease-of-use, which vary for each method. Values from the different methods are compared using ANOVA tests to evaluate inter-method, inter-observer, and intra-observer variability. Intra-observer error was greater for the microscopic method, although the error values are concomitant with experience. We found no statistically significant differences between the four methods examined, but certain caveats must be addressed when these methods are used. Language: en
Design of a Microculture Chamber to Observe Cell Division of Bacterial L-Forms in Liquid Medium

A culture chamber is described that permits phase-contrast microscopic observations of the growth of stable L-form cells of Bacillus subtilis 168 in liquid medium.
Manganese supplementation increases adiponectin secretion by upregulating disulfide bond A-like protein in endothelial cells and Zucker diabetic fatty rats (767.13)

Adiponectin is an insulin sensitizer that plays a role in the regulation of lipid and glucose homeostasis and has anti atherosclerotic effects. It is synthesized as a single polypeptide and is then assembled in the endoplasmic reticulum into different multimers. An adiponectin-interacting protein named disulfide bond A-like protein (DsbA-L) was recently found to play an important role in multimerization of adiponectin; impairment in DsbA-L is associated with diabetes and low adiponectin levels. Manganese (Mn) levels have been found to be low in atherosclerotic and diabetic patients. Previous studies in our lab have shown that Mn supplementation can lower blood cholesterol and ICAM-1 levels in ZDF rats and reduce MCP-1 secretion and monocyte adhesion to endothelial cells in HUVECs model (J. Biol. Chem, 2013 Mar 1; 288 (9):6409-16). This study investigates the hypothesis that Mn supplementation affects DsbA-L expression levels, and thereby adiponectin levels, in ZDF rats and endothelial cells (HUVECs). Resu...
Dissembling his art: ‘Gascoigne's Gardnings’

This essay considers how garden and agricultural manuals from the sixteenth and early seventeenth centuries provide insight into George Gascoigne's negotiation of his role as professional writer in A Hundreth Sundrie Flowres and The Posies. By considering Gascoigne's collection in conjunction with gardening books from the period, we can see more clearly the issues Gascoigne confronts, issues that seem inextricably involved with print culture and changing social values. The same concerns that permeate so much of Gascoigne's work are evident in the gardening manuals of the period with their interrogation of profit and pleasure, art and nature, the reliability of sources – and with their obsession with the vulgarity of men who wrote or gardened for profit. Recent scholarship also suggests the connection between the garden manual and notions of nationhood, the history of the book, and the burgeoning print marketplace – all issues apparent in Gascoigne's work. Gascoigne's analogy then is more than just a convention and is fundamentally connected to the ways that he fashions his identity as gentleman, author, and Englishman.
Line source representations for shear wave birefringence measurements in transversely isotropic materials using laser ultrasonics

Line source representations for thermoelastic, laser excitation of transversely isotropic materials are developed to model shear wave birefringence effects that can occur in these materials. Continuum descriptions for elastic wave propagation are used to generate equations of motion that are solved using transform methods. Analytical solutions are presented for epicentral waveforms for propagation parallel and perpendicular to the axis of symmetry. These solutions are particularly simple and allow for rapid examination of the influence of various components of the stiffness tensor on wave propagation. In particular, for propagation perpendicular to the axis of symmetry, line source orientations parallel and perpendicular to this axis yield two cases that demonstrate shear wave birefringence. This effect is computed for titanium as well as for a nearly isotropic material–both Class I–to highlight the influence of diagonal as well as off-diagonal components of the stiffness tensor on the character of laser ultrasonic waveforms when the tensor is referenced to the principal coordinate system. The results presented in this work should be used to guide the interpretation of laser ultrasonic, line source measurements in transversely isotropic materials when birefringence effects are present.
PAR4 Mediates an Elevated Risk for Thrombosis in Blacks Relative to Whites (425.1)

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of mortality in the US amongst all races. CHD disproportionality burdens blacks relative to whites and even after adjusting for other demographic p...
Development of a clickable bimodal fluorescent/PET probe for in vivo imaging

Fluorescent imaging agents are becoming evermore important in preclinical and clinical research. They do, however, suffer from poor tissue penetration, which makes optical fluorescence imaging incompatible with whole-body imaging techniques. The design of novel bimodal PET active and fluorescent tracers could therefore combine the benefits of optical imaging with radioactively labeled imaging probes. Herein, we report the synthesis and evaluation of a clickable 18F-labeled fluorescent dye. An azide-modified BODIPY-Fl dye could be successfully radio-labeled with 18F using an 18F/19F exchange reaction of the boron-fluoride core of the BODIPY dye to yield a clickable bimodal PET/fluorescent imaging tool. In vitro as well as in vivo imaging (PET/fluorescence) using a bombesin analog was conducted to study the applicability of the dual-modality imaging probe. We use the radio-labeled small molecule, 18F-BODIPY-azide to label site-specifically different targeted peptides, based on a standard modular labeling protocol. Following the synthesis of a bimodal bombesin analog, we determine the peptide tracer’s performance in vitro and in vivo, exploring both the optical as well as PET imaging capabilities. This versatile methodology has the potential to have a transformational impact on 18F radiotracer synthesis, opening the door for rapid screening of novel-labeled peptide tracers, both on the cellular (optical) as well as whole-body (PET) level.
Facilitated diffusion in chromatin lattices: mechanistic diversity and regulatory potential

The interaction between a protein and a specific DNA site is the molecular basis for vital processes in all organisms. Location of the DNA target site by the protein commonly involves facilitated diffusion. Mechanisms of facilitated diffusion vary among proteins; they include one- and two-dimensional sliding along DNA, direct transfer between uncorrelated sites, as well as combinations of these mechanisms. Facilitated diffusion has almost exclusively been studied in vitro. This review discusses facilitated diffusion in the context of the living cell and proposes a theoretical model for facilitated diffusion in chromatin lattices. Chromatin structure differentially affects proteins in different modes of diffusion. The interplay of facilitated diffusion and chromatin structure can determine the rate of protein association with the target site, the frequency of association-dissociation events at the target site, and, under particular conditions, the occupancy of the target site. Facilitated diffusion is required in vivo for efficient DNA repair and bacteriophage restriction and has potential roles in fine-tuning gene regulatory networks and kinetically compartmentalizing the eukaryotic nucleus.
A black phosphorus FET integrated on a silicon waveguide for high speed, low dark current photodetection

A waveguide-integrated black phosphorus photodetector with high responsivity and low dark current is demonstrated for telecom wavelengths with an RC-limited bandwidth of 3 GHz. Electrostatic doping and frequency dependent photoresponse are used to identify photocurrent generation mechanisms.
Probing potential binding modes of the p53 tetramer to DNA based on the symmetries encoded in p53 response elements

Symmetries in the p53 response-element (p53RE) encode binding modes for p53 tetramer to recognize DNA. We investigated the molecular mechanisms and biological implications of the possible binding modes. The probabilities evaluated with molecular dynamics simulations and DNA sequence analyses were found to be correlated, indicating that p53 tetramer models studied here are able to read DNA sequence information. The traditionally believed mode with four p53 monomers binding at all four DNA quarter-sites does not cause linear DNA to bend. Alternatively, p53 tetramer can use only two monomers to recognize DNA sequence and induce DNA bending. With an arrangement of dimer of AB dimer observed in p53 trimer-DNA complex crystal, p53 can recognize supercoiled DNA sequence-specifically by binding to quarter-sites one and four (H14 mode) and recognize Holliday junction geometry-specifically. Examining R273H mutation and p53-DNA interactions, we found that at least three R273H monomers are needed to disable the p53 tetramer, consistent with experiments. But just one R273H monomer may greatly shift the binding mode probabilities. Our work suggests that p53 needs balanced binding modes to maintain genome stability. Inverse repeat p53REs favor the H14 mode and direct repeat p53REs may have high possibilities of other modes.
Nonlinear optical resonators for tunable THz emission

We designed and theoretically investigated nonlinear optical micro-ring resonators for tunable terahertz (THz) emission in 1-10 THz range by using difference frequency generation (DFG) phenomenon with large second order optical nonlinearity (χ(2)). Our design consists of a nonlinear ring resonator and another ring underneath capable of sustaining high-Q resonant modes for infrared pump beams and the generated THz radiation, respectively. The nonlinear ring resonator generates THz through DFG by mixing the input waves carried by a pair of waveguides. The proposed device can be a viable platform for tunable, compact THz emitters and on-chip integrated spectrometers.
Melt inclusion formation mechanisms and compositional effects in high-An feldspar and high-Fo olivine in anhydrous mafic silicate liquids

Important aspects of melt inclusion formation and potential compositions effects have been addressed through a series of experiments using anorthite/fosterite saturated anhydrous mafic liquids. Experimental charges were cooled from 1,300 to 1,230 and 1,210°C at rates of 1–10°/min followed by 0–24 h isothermal periods. Hopper and skeletal crystal morphologies with variable degrees of completeness developed during the cooling period. Planar overgrowth of these textures during isothermal periods led to the formation of inclusions, the majority of which formed after 6 h of isothermal run time. We suggest that the change in morphologies is related to a decrease in growth rates and changes in dominant growth mechanisms. In general, inclusion compositions were uniform and similar to the host glass, indicating that with the isothermal times required for most inclusions to form, a boundary layer was not entrapped that could be detected within the limits of our analyses.
The relationship of network affiliation change to prime time program ratings

Nielsen ratings data from sixty markets were analyzed to determine whether factors traditionally thought to influence program ratings continue to do so in the face of affiliation change. Overall, the study concludes that they do. Affiliation change was less significant in predicting ratings than several other variables, suggesting that the audience does indeed watch programs, not stations and will find preferred programs even if they move from one station to another.
A protein diffusion model of the sealing effect

Water transport across the arterial endothelium is believed primarily to occur through breaks in the tight junction strands at the cell periphery between neighboring cells. Additional proteins arriving at the tight junction can close these breaks, thereby attenuating this water flux. Motivated by evidence that the diffusion of presynthesized protein from the interior of the cell to and incorporation into the cell border is the mechanism of endothelial tight junctional sealing, we develop a diffusion-limited mathematical model of intercellular gap sealing. A single endothelial cell is represented as a thin, axisymmetric disk, initially containing a uniform distribution of junctional protein that does not interact with the apical or basal cell surfaces. Upon application of a transmural pressure gradient, water flows through the junctional cleft, and tight junction remodeling begins. We assume that proteins at the junction are instantaneously incorporated into its strand, dropping the free protein concentration at the cell periphery to zero. This sets the diffusion of intracellular proteins toward the junction in motion. The solution of this one-dimensional initial value problem provides excellent fits to current and previously published experimental data over a wide variety of conditions. It yields three physically meaningful parameters for each fit, including a protein diffusivity in the cytoplasm that varies little within experimental treatments. Statistical variation of these parameters allows rational comparison of experimental runs and identification of outlier runs.
Nitric oxide decreases the stability of DMPO spin adducts.

Abstract The effect nitric oxide (NO ) on the stability of 5,5-dimethyl-1-pyrroline- N -oxide (DMPO) adducts has been investigated using EPR spectroscopy. We report that the DMPO/HO adduct, generated by porcine pulmonary artery endothelial cells in the presence of H 2 O 2 and DMPO, or by a Fenton system (Fe(II) + H 2 O 2 ) is degraded in the presence of the NO -donor, 2-( N , N -diethylamino)-diazenolate-2-oxide (DEANO) or by bolus addition of an aqueous solution of NO . A similar effect of DEANO was observed on other DMPO adducts, such as DMPO/ CH 3 and DMPO/ CH(CH 3 )OH, generated in cell-free systems. Measurements of the loss of DMPO/HO in the presence of DEANO in aerated and oxygen-free buffers showed that in both of these settings the process obeys first-order kinetics and proceeds with similar efficacy. This indicates that direct interaction of the nitroxide with NO , rather than with NO 2 (formed from NO and O 2 in aerated media), is responsible for destruction of the spin adduct. These results suggest that the presence of NO may substantially affect the quantitative determination of DMPO adducts. We also show that NO 2 radicals, generated by a myeloperoxidase/H 2 O 2 /nitrite system, also degrade DMPO/HO . Because DMPO is frequently used to study generation of superoxide and hydroxyl radicals in biological systems, these observations indicate that extra caution is required when studying generation of these species in the presence of NO or NO 2 radicals.
Cerebral dominance and subtypes of developmental dyslexia

Evidence of different syndromes of developmental dyslexia raises the question of the interaction between dyslexic types and patterns of cerebral dominance. Some of the proposed classifications of dyslexia, and most notably the one proposed by Boder (1971), strongly suggest that dyslexic subtypes, that can be identified clinically by reading-spelling patterns, may possess different or opposite cerebral dominance patterns. Thus, research of cerebral dominance in dyslexia (i.e., Orton’s hypothesis) should involve careful selection and classification of subjects. When this is done it can be shown that electrophysiological measures can identify cerebral-dominance abnormalities in at least one subtype of developmental dyslexia.
Exploring the Intersection of Neighborhood Racial and Economic Composition and Individual Race on Substance Use Among Male Adolescents

This article examines how Blacks and Whites living in neighborhoods with divergent racial and income profiles differed in early onset (by age 14 years) and adolescent lifetime prevalence (by age 18 years) of substance use, with longitudinal data from 473 high-risk boys (58% Black). A latent profile analysis identified four neighborhood classes: Black, lower-income; racially mixed, middle-income; White, middle-income; and White, upper-income. Bivariate analyses showed that Blacks living in racially mixed, middle-income neighborhoods reported the lowest rates of tobacco and marijuana use. Whites living in White, upper-income neighborhoods reported higher substance use prevalence, particularly marijuana. Findings suggest that substance use prevention efforts are critical for Whites in upper-income communities.
The geological implications of steady-state mechanisms in catastrophe theory

A brief introduction to catastrophe theory is presented, within the context of geological application, and a fundamental problem with a critical axiom of the theory noted. Implications for the application of this theory to modeling geological processes are noted and a solution to the problem proposed. The new approach is examined with reference to a model for sediment transport on the continental slope.
A Matrix Stability Criterion which does not Involve Forming the Characteristic Polynomial

Abstract A crucial problem in the theory of stability is to determine whether or not all of the eigenvalues of a system matrix have negative real parts. The classical test is to form the characteristic polynomial of the given matrix and then apply the Routh-Hurwitz criterion, which involves evaluating certain determinants. A new approach is presented in this paper; the characteristic polynomial is not formed, though certain differential equations must be integrated (numerically). Results of some computational experiments are encouraging.
1.3-micron all-fiber passive optical rotation sensor

An all-fiber, 1.3-micron passive optical rotation sensor utilizing 4.2 km of single-mode fiber and synchronous detection has been constructed and tested in the laboratory. rms noise-equivalent rotation rates of 0.005 deg/hr have been measured. Drift and scale-factor variations resulted in a change in the indicated rotation rate of 0.4 deg/hr over a 1-hr time period.
Engineering curriculum in the preschool classroom: the teacher's experience

The study presented here focuses on the development of an early education Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) curriculum with emphasis on engineering. This article presents the teacher's experience as she undertook the task of familiarising herself with the new content and using the curriculum in a university based lab-school classroom in the US. More specifically, the article describes and analyses the collaboration between the teacher and the curriculum developer. It also presents facilitators and barriers during the implementation, as identified by the teacher and the researchers, reports on the multiple stakeholders involved, and raises questions for future research. Engineering education in the precollege years is a developing academic discipline that stems from the need to understand and improve the ways engineers are formally educated. The belief of early experiences as determinants of later experiences has long constituted a basis of educational planning. Therefore, identifying...
Importance of the Locus coeruleus and involvement of α-adrenergic receptors in the post-decapitation reflex in the rat

The latency, duration, hindlimb kick frequency, and total activity components of the post-decapitation reflex (PDR) were measured in the rat using a movement-sensitive transducer. Reduction of brain and spinal cord norepinephrine (NE) caused by neonatal administration of 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) or 5,7-dihydroxytryptamine, which also reduced brain serotonin, decreased all components of the PDR. Depletion of serotonin or dopamine alone reduced the vigor of the reflex, suggesting that these pathways can influence the PDR but are not essential for the response. Lesions of neurons in the Locus coeruleus, made electrolytically or with 6-OHDA, decreased the intensity of the PDR, with the 6-OHDA-induced lesion being more effective. Depletion of forebrain NE terminals with 6-OHDA did not alter the PDR, consistent with a critical involvement of spinal noradrenergic fibers. The PDR was also decreased by phentolamine and prazosin, but not by propanolol, suggesting an involvement of α-adrenergic receptors in the response. This hypothesis was further supported by the finding that the efficacy of a variety of drugs (such as tricyclic antidepressants, phenothiazines, and antihypertensive compounds) for blocking the reflex was apparently related to their affinity for α-adrenergic receptors. Thus, the PDR is dependent on noradrenergic fibers in the spinal cord and may provide a simple screen for drugs with suspected α-adrenergic blocking properties or for agents that disrupt the function of central noradrenergic fibers.
Modeling of dust concentration distribution in a simulated swine room under non-isothermal conditions

Experimental and numerical modeling were conducted to determine the dust concentration distribution in a simulated, mechanically ventilated, swine nursery room under non-isothermal conditions. Effects of dust generation rate, temperature difference between supply air and inside air, dust source location, and presence/absence of obstructions (mock pigs) on dust concentration were also evaluated. Results from numerical modeling agreed well with measured values from full-scale tests, based on the ASTM (1995) guidelines. Analysis of the measured values indicated that the dust source location significantly (p < 0.05) influenced the dust concentration distribution; dust concentration was higher at or near the source. However, the effects of temperature difference between supply air and inside air (7.0 vs. 16.0°C), dust generation rate (low vs high), and presence/absence of the mock pigs on dust concentration distribution were not statistically significant (p > 0.05).
An aberrant plastid ribosomal RNA gene cluster in the root parasite Conopholis americana.

The plastid ribisomal RNA (rRNA) operon of the achlorophyllous root parasite Conopholis americana was completely sequenced. Full-length rRNA genes are retained in the gene cluster, but significant divergence has occurred in the 16S, 23S and 5S genes. Both the 16S–23S intergenic spacer and the 4.5S–5S intergenic spacer have suffered substantial deletions, including the two tRNA genes typically found in prokaryotic and plastid 16S–23S spacers.
The Case of the First-Year Charter School

Charter schools are growing at a phenomenal rate because of the deregulation of education in many states. Exempt from many rules that constrain public schools, charter schools can use any means to accomplish their goals, such as offering an ethnocentric curriculum or focusing on technology, science, communications, or the arts. However, there is a dearth of research on charter schools. This article explains how one urban charter school struggled during its first year to overcome several barriers, such as the school’s initial facility, limited curricula, and certain administrative policies, to become a cohesive team that nurtured a unique community of learners.
Alephnull Anti-de Sitter supergravity with Lorentz Chern–Simons term in 3D

Abstract We formulate supergravity in three-dimensional Anti-de Sitter (AdS) space–time with an arbitrary number of supersymmetries with a Lorentz Chern–Simons term. Our field content is ( e μ m , ψ μ A , A μ A B , ω μ m n , λ m n A ) , where the gravitino ψ μ A and the gaugino λ m n A are in the vectorial representation of SO ( N ) for N ∀ , whose gauge field is A μ A B . The ω μ m n is a spin connection regarded as an independent field. Both ω μ m n and A μ A B have their Chern–Simons (CS) terms. Local N ∀ ( ℵ 0 ) supersymmetry requires the coefficients of these CS terms be proportional to the gravitino mass. Differently from most conventional works, our supersymmetry transformation for ω μ m n is proportional to the gaugino λ m n A . The solution for the scalar curvature is a negative constant, and our space–time is AdS. Despite the Lorentz CS term, ω μ m n can be algebraically solved. The Lorentz and SO ( N ) CS terms serve as the gravitational and SO ( N ) gauge anomalies for the two-dimensional boundary superconformal field theory. We also compute the charges for ℵ 0 supersymmetry, SO ( N ) and Lorentz symmetries, and also show that Witten–Nester charges are positive definite.
The p-version of the finite element method for a singularly perturbed boundary value problem

The p-version of the finite element method is applied to solve the singularly perturbed two-point boundary value problem with or without turning point. With the special choice of mesh points, global error estimates are derived. In some cases, the exponential rate of convergence is obtained. Some numerical results are given to show the performance of the proposed method.
Perceptual indexing of visual information

The application of Human perceptual models in image and video coding is motivated by the fact that non-perceptual distortion metrics (mean square error) do not correlate well with the perceived quality at lower bit-rates despite their acceptable signal to noise ratio. In this paper, we propose a novel approach for indexing the visual content of images based on human perceptual thresholds employed for encoding. In other words, the thresholds that are employed in perceptual coding also serve as an index. These thresholds depend on the overall luminance, frequency/orientation, and the variety of patterns in an image and can serve as indexing features. These features therefore have the potential to retrieve perceptually similar images in response to a query image. Detailed simulations have been carried out using the proposed indexing concept in the DCT compressed domain. Here, the indices have been computed using the DCTune coding technique, which has been shown to provide a superior visual quality in encoding images. Simulation results demonstrate that superior retrieval performance can be achieved for specific classes of images while comparable performance is obtained for other image classes.
Bladder afferent pathway and spinal cord injury: possible mechanisms inducing hyperreflexia of the urinary bladder

Lower urinary tract dysfunction is a common problem in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI). Since the coordination of the urinary bladder and urethra is controlled by the complex mechanisms in spinal and supraspinal neural pathways, SCI rostral to the lumbosacral level disrupts voluntary and supraspinal control of voiding and induces a considerable reorganization of the micturition reflex pathway. Following SCI, the urinary bladder is initially areflexic. but then becomes hyperreflexic because of the emergence of a spinal micturition reflex pathway. Recent electrophysiologic and histologic studies in rats have revealed that chronic SCI induces various phenotypic changes in bladder afferent neurons such as: (1) somal hypertrophy along with increased expression of neurofilament protein; and (2) increased excitability due to the plasticity of Na+ and K+ ion channels. These results have now provided detailed information to support the previous notion that capsaicin-sensitive, unmyelinated C-fiber afferents innervating the urinary bladder change their properties after SCI and are responsible for inducing bladder hyperreflexia in both humans and animals. It is also suggested that the changes in bladder reflex pathways following SCI are influenced by neural-target organ interactions probably mediated by neurotrophic signals originating in the hypertrophied bladder. Thus, increased knowledge of the plasticity in bladder afferent pathways may help to explain the pathogenesis of lower urinary tract dysfunctions after SCI and may provide valuable insights into new therapeutic strategies for urinary symptoms in spinal cord-injured patients.
The cross-cultural generality of visual-verbal synesthetic tendencies.

The Sapir-Whorf hypothesis that the structure of a language influences cognitive behavior is questioned in this study of comparability of experience in different sense modalities. Do the Navajo, like ourselves, see HAPPY as more up and SAD as more down? Do the Japanese, like ourselves, conceive of EXCITEMENT as colorful and CALM as colorless? Do the Navajos and Anglos differ widely in their connotative meanings of the words “blue” and its correlate in Navajo, yet agree closely on their meanings for a specific BLUE color chip? Here is a first attempt to demonstrate that the visualverbal synesthetic relationships characteristic of our own language/culture community are shared by peoples who speak different languages and enjoy different cultures. Perhaps there is a “world view” that is relatively stable despite differences in both language and culture.
Electronic Raman scattering across the unconventional charge gap in FeSi

The unusual charge gap in FeSi is investigated using Raman scattering. These studies reveal (i) a rapid suppression of low-frequency (760 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$) electronic scattering below \ensuremath{\sim}250 K, (ii) a redistribution of low-frequency electronic scattering strength to interband transitions near ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\Delta}}}_{0}$\ensuremath{\sim}1200 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$, and (iii) a dramatic decrease in phonon linewidths below 250 K, indicating a strong coupling between low-frequency charge excitations and the lattice in FeSi.
A permanent line of macrophages with normal activity in a primary antibody response in vitro.

The ability of a permanent line of SV4O transformed mouse peritoneal macrophages to restore the plaqus-forming response to sheep erythrocytes of in vitro cultured normal mouse spleen lymphocytes depleted of macrophage activity by cell separation on a column of glass beads was investigated. The transformed macrophages retain the full restoration activity of normal primary peritoneal macrophages, while neither normal or SV4O transformed fibroblasts show the reconstituting activity. This easily grown cell line should aid investigation of macrophage activity and antigen processing.
Detection of intraocular pressure change in the eye using sonoelastic Doppler ultrasound

We report the first use of sonoelastic Doppler ultrasound for in vivo and in vitro clinical studies of intraocular pressure (IOP). The method involves low-amplitude and low-frequency sonic excitation of the eye, and detection of the resulting vibration using Doppler ultrasound. A dependence of the frequency of resonance of the eye on the IOP has been observed in both in vitro and in vivo experiments. Preliminary in vitro experiments have been performed using eviscerated and enucleated human and pig eyes. As little as 4 mm Hg change in IOP has been found detectable in these experiments. Preliminary in vivo experiments also showed promising results in this regard. We present a simple model for the resonances of the eye, a method to detect the amplitude of vibration using Doppler ultrasound and results from the in vitro and in vivo experiments.
Mitochondrial permeability transition pore component cyclophilin D distinguishes nigrostriatal dopaminergic death paradigms in the MPTP mouse model of Parkinson's disease.

Abstract Aims: Mitochondrial damage due to Ca2+ overload-induced opening of permeability transition pores (PTP) is believed to play a role in selective degeneration of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons in Parkinson's disease (PD). Genetic ablation of mitochondrial matrix protein cyclophilin D (CYPD) has been shown to increase Ca2+ threshold of PTP in vitro and to prevent cell death in several in vivo disease models. We investigated the role of CYPD in a mouse model of MPTP (1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine)-induced PD. Results: We demonstrate that in vitro, brain mitochondria isolated from CYPD knockout mice were less sensitive to MPP+ (1-methyl-4-phenyl-pyridinium ion)-induced membrane depolarization, and free radical generation compared to wild-type mice. CYPD knockout mitochondria isolated from ventral midbrain of mice treated with MPTP in vivo exhibited less damage as judged from respiratory chain Complex I activity, State 3 respiration rate, and respiratory control index than wild-type m...
Landing adaptations following isolated lateral meniscectomy in athletes.

Purpose Objective functional outcomes following isolated radial lateral meniscus tears in the athlete between the ages of 14–25 are not clearly defined. The objective of this study was to determine whether patients following lateral meniscectomy demonstrate lower extremity asymmetries relative to control athletes 3 months after surgery. We hypothesized that following lateral meniscectomy, athletes aged 14–25 years old would demonstrate altered landing biomechanics compared to sex, age, height, weight, and sport-matched controls.
Methodology for the measurement and analysis of relaxation times in proton imaging.

Measurements of proton T1 and T2 were performed on GdCl3 solutions (20<T2<500 msec, 90<T1<1000 msec) on large-bore NMR imaging systems operating at 1.0T and 1.5T. CPMG multi-echo (ME), multiple saturation recovery (MSR) and modified fast inversion recovery (MFIR) pulse sequences as well as a sequence that combines and interleaves T1 and T2 weighted data acquisition (which we call “multiple saturation-recovery multiple-echo” (MSRME) were used. The relaxation data are compared to those obtained on a small bore NMR spectrometer operated at 1.5T. T1 and T2 values for the solutions were found to be the same within 10% for the two fields. Reproducibility of measurements of T1, T2 and the unnormalized spin density of the solutions was better than 5%. Systematic errors, amenable to correction through calibration, are noted in the imager T1 and T2 values for some typical neural tissues at 1.5T and body tissue at 1.0T for human volunteers were obtained and are tabulated.
Comprehension of Wh-Questions in Two Broca's Aphasics

Abstract This study investigated comprehension of wh-questions in two Broca's aphasics. Patients were presented for comprehension with two types of wh-questions: questions headed by which and questions headed by who . These two types were chosen because according to recent syntactic analyses they give rise to different types of syntactic "chains." These questions were presented in both subject gap versions (e.g., which cat chased the dog? ) and object gap versions (e.g., which cat did the dog chase? ). Comprehension of which questions was asymmetric, with subject gap versions comprehended significantly better than object gap versions, the latter yielding chance-level performance. This finding is consistent with previous reports of subject–object asymmetries in comprehension of relative clauses and clefts, as well as active–passive comprehension asymmetries. In contrast, comprehension of who questions was symmetrical over subject gap and object gap versions: Both patients performed equally well (significantly better than chance) on subject gap and object gap who questions. These findings are inconsistent with current formulations of "chain" or "trace"-based theories of agrammatic comprehension which assume a deficit that affects both types of syntactic chains. We suggest that linguistic descriptions of agrammatic comprehension should be limited to deficits involving only one type of chain. We also suggest that there are processing differences underlying the syntactic distinctions between which -type and who -type questions and that this may account for different patterns of comprehension on these and other constructions.
Production of Impending Hepatic Coma by a Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitor, Diamox.

Conclusions1. The carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, Diamox, can produce impending hepatic coma in susceptible alcoholics with cirrhosis. 2. This type of induced impending coma may be associated with a rise in femoral or antecubital vein blood ammonia nitrogen concentrations to levels above those seen in mentally clear patients with cirrhosis. 3. The nitrogen contained in Diamox is not a source of the elevated blood ammonia nitrogen concentrations.