cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Gene expression profiling in the fetal cardiac tissue after folate and low-dose trichloroethylene exposure.

BACKGROUND: Previous studies show gene expression alterations in rat embryo hearts and cell lines that correspond to the cardio-teratogenic effects of trichloroethylene (TCE) in animal models. One potential mechanism of TCE teratogenicity may be through altered regulation of calcium homeostatic genes with a corresponding inhibition of cardiac function. It has been suggested that TCE may interfere with the folic acid/methylation pathway in liver and kidney and alter gene regulation by epigenetic mechanisms. According to this hypothesis, folate supplementation in the maternal diet should counteract TCE effects on gene expression in the embryonic heart. APPROACH: To identify transcriptional targets altered in the embryonic heart after exposure to TCE, and possible protective effects of folate, we used DNA microarray technology to profile gene expression in embryonic mouse hearts with maternal TCE exposure and dietary changes in maternal folate. RESULTS: Exposure to low doses of TCE (10 ppb) caused extensive alterations in transcripts encoding proteins involved in transport, ion channel, transcription, differentiation, cytoskeleton, cell cycle, and apoptosis. Exogenous folate did not offset the effects of TCE exposure on normal gene expression, and both high and low levels of folate produced additional significant changes in gene expression. CONCLUSIONS: A mechanism by which TCE induces a folate deficiency does not explain altered gene expression patterns in the embryonic mouse heart. The data further suggest that use of folate supplementation, in the presence of this toxin, may be detrimental and not protective of the developing embryo Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2010. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Wrench Movements in the Baluchistan Arc and Relation to Himalayan-Indian Ocean Tectonics

Satellite photographs provide evidence that the structural discontinuity between the east-west-trending Makran Ranges and the north-south-trending Kirthar and Sulaiman Ranges of the Baluchistan Arc is among the world's major left-lateral shear belts. The Kirthar Sulaiman shear occurs at the junction of the Himalayan and Baluchistan arcs and may have influenced the development of the western Himalayan syntaxis. A similar belt of right-lateral shear is suggested at the junction of the Himalayan and Burmese arcs (eastern Himalayan syntaxis). Between the two extremes the Himalayan arc appears to be affected by gigantic tear faults cutting across the east-west-trending fold and thrust axes. The tectonic pattern suggests that these cross structures are zones of differential lateral movement within the crust related to linear features of sea-floor spreading in the Indian Ocean, the northward drift and underthrust of India beneath the southern edge of the Asian craton.
Light-Reflection Liquid-Level Sensor

When parallel-polarized light is reflected at an angle ? by the interface between two transparent media with refractive indices n and N, the interface reflectance is switched from 1 to 0 by varying the refractive index ratio N/n from sin ? to tan ?. This is the basis of a light-reflection liquid-level sensor that uses a prismatic window in the side wall of the vessel whose liquid level is to be monitored. Such a sensor is described and its design procedure is developed. Remote liquid-level telemetering is possible by using fiber optics to lead the light to and from this particular sensor.
Conformation of naturally-occurring peptides in surfactant solution: its relation to the structure-forming potential of amino acid sequence.

Abstract Short polypeptides are unordered in aqueous solution. Surfactants provide a proteinaceous environment in which ordered conformation of the peptides can be induced if they have a structure-forming potential. Ten peptides studied are classified into four types: (I) helix-forming, (II) β-forming, (III) either helix- or β-forming, and (IV) neither structure-forming. At low molar ratio, R, of sodium dodecyl sulfate to peptide (residue) (R
Diffusion Modeling of the Rayleigh Piston

A Markov jump process in which a massive labeled particle undergoes random elastic collisions with a thermal bath is investigated. It is found that the behavior of the labeled particle can be divided into three distinct regimes depending on whether its velocity is (1) much less than, (2) on the order of, or (3) much greater than the mean speed of a bath particle. In each regime the jump process can be approximated by a particular continuous-path diffusion process. The first case corresponds to the Ornstein-Uhlenbeck process, while each of the latter can be modeled by a deterministic process with a nonlinear Langevin equation. In addition, in cases (2) and (3), the scaled deviation from the mean velocity can be modeled by a nonstationary diffusion. By scaling the time and letting the mass of the labeled particle become large, a continuous-path diffusion is constructed which approximates the jump process in each regime. Analytic solutions for the transition probability density are provided in each case, and numerical comparisons are made between the mean and variance of the diffusions and the original jump process.
What fills the gaps in food deserts? Mapping independent groceries, food stamp card utilization and chain fast-food restaurants in the Chicago area

Recent research has identified the existence of “food deserts” in many urban (and rural) areas, characterized by a lack of access to chain supermarkets. With few exceptions, these studies have focused on chains rather than independent supermarkets. The Northeastern Illinois Community Food Security Assessment is a GIS and survey based study of food access in the six-county Chicago metropolitan area. Preliminary results indicate that poor and minority areas are less likely to have full-line chain supermarkets, but it does not necessarily follow that all of these communities have poor food access since many Hispanic and other ethnic communities have many stores that cater to their cuisines. More interestingly, food stamp card allocation and redemption data indicate that most poor African–American areas have much higher levels of allocation than redemption. Surrounding areas have higher redemption than allocation levels, indicating that residents are spending their food stamp money at stores in these surrounding neighborhoods. This food stamp usage data set is compared to the mix of stores in the particular neighborhoods in question. Further analysis looks at the pattern of chain fast-food restaurants in the Chicago area. While national chains are not absent from most ‘food deserts,’ as with supermarkets, many of these areas are served more by local chains and independents.
A comparison of He ii 304 Å and He i 10 830 Å spectroheliograms

Spectroheliograms were obtained simultaneously in the He ii 304 A emission line and the He i 10 830 A absorption line with an angular resolution of approximately 5″. A negative print of the 304 A image is matched with a positive print of the 10 830 A image so that corresponding features of the chromospheric network (including active regions) appear identical in the two images. Differences between these images include the facts that: These results provide constraints on models of helium line formation in various types of solar features.
A survey for haemoglobinopathies in Nepal.

Abstract 2,473 Hb electrophoreses performed on specimens collected from various parts of Nepal showed the most common abnormal Hb to be Hb E. The highest prevalence of Hb E (4%) was found in southeast Nepal. Haemoglobin D was occasionally found in central Nepal. Both alpha and beta thalassaemias were diagnosed, and thalassaemia was likewise more frequent in southeast Nepal. The diverse ethnic background on which the significance of the distribution of Hb E and thalassaemia must be considered is presented, and this challenges attempts to attribute their distribution to environmental factors alone.
Cell-type homologies and the origins of the neocortex

The six-layered neocortex is a uniquely mammalian structure with evolutionary origins that remain in dispute. One long-standing hypothesis, based on similarities in neuronal connectivity, proposes that homologs of the layer 4 input and layer 5 output neurons of neocortex are present in the avian forebrain, where they contribute to specific nuclei rather than to layers. We devised a molecular test of this hypothesis based on layer-specific gene expression that is shared across rodent and carnivore neocortex. Our findings establish that the layer 4 input and the layer 5 output cell types are conserved across the amniotes, but are organized into very different architectures, forming nuclei in birds, cortical areas in reptiles, and cortical layers in mammals.
Detecting citrus canker by hyperspectral reflectance imaging and PCA-based image classification method

Citrus canker is one of the most devastating diseases that threaten citrus crops. Technologies that can efficiently identify citrus canker would assure fruit quality and safety and enhance the competitiveness and profitability of the citrus industry. This research was aimed to investigate the potential of using hyperspectral imaging technique for detecting canker lesions on citrus fruit. A portable hyperspectral imaging system consisting of an automatic sample handling unit, a light source, and a hyperspectral imaging unit was developed for citrus canker detection. The imaging system was used to acquire reflectance images from citrus samples in the wavelength range between 400 nm and 900 nm. Ruby Red grapefruits with normal and various diseased skin conditions including canker, copper burn, greasy spot, wind scar, cake melanose, and specular melanose were tested. Hyperspectral reflectance images were analyzed using principal component analysis (PCA) to compress the 3-D hyperspectral image data and extract useful image features that could be used to discriminate cankerous samples from normal and other diseased samples. Image processing and classification algorithms were developed based upon the transformed images of PCA. The overall accuracy for canker detection was 92.7%. This research demonstrated that hyperspectral imaging technique could be used for discriminating citrus canker from other confounding diseases.
CURRENT ALGEBRA AND THE PION TRAJECTORY.

It is shown that one conventional interpretation of the success of current-algebra results requires the pion Regge trajectory to choose the Toller quantum number $M=0$ at zero energy.
An assessment of a tracheal tube introducer as an endotracheal tube placement confirmation device

Abstract Introduction Early detection of an inadvertent esophageal intubation can be particularly challenging in cases when the current standard of care, carbon dioxide detection, is unreliable. We sought to determine the sensitivity and specificity of an inexpensive and portable device, the gum elastic bougie (Eschmann Tracheal Tube Introducer, SIMS Portex, Inc, Keene, NH), as an endotracheal tube placement confirmation device. Methods We conducted a prospective blinded trial in 20 human cadavers. Each cadaver was randomized to a mixed series of 5 esophageal and 5 tracheal intubations. Each intubation was assessed with the bougie twice, once by a novice to the technique, and once by an assessor who was constant through the trial. Assessors used the bougie to “feel” for “clicks” of the tracheal rings and to appreciate “hang up” of the bougie as it was advanced into the smaller airways. Absence of these findings was presumed to indicate an esophageal intubation. Actual placement was confirmed by bronchoscopy. Each assessor made an independent determination of tube location. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data. Results Overall, 93% (95% confidence interval [CI], 86%-97%) of tracheal placements were correctly identified. The constant assessor was able to correctly identify 98% (95% CI, 90%-100%). Tracheal rings were detected in 92% of tracheal placements. Ring clicks were 95% specific for tracheal intubation. Hang up was reported in 100% of tracheal placements with a specificity of 84%. Overall, 95% (95% CI, 88%-98%) of esophageal intubations were detected. The constant assessor detected 100% of esophageal intubations. Conclusion In the cadaver model used in this study, the gum elastic bougie (Eschmann Tracheal Tube Introducer) shows promise as an endotracheal tube confirmation device.
Cenozoic tectonic evolution of the central Wassuk Range, western Nevada, USA

The central Wassuk Range is ideally located to investigate the interplay of Basin and Range extension and Walker Lane dextral deformation along the western Nevada margin of the Basin and Range province. To elucidate the Cenozoic evolution of the range, the author conducted geologic mapping, structural data collection and analysis, geochemical analysis of igneous lithologies, and geochronology. This research delineates a three-stage deformational history for the range. A pulse of ENE–WSW-directed extension at high strain rates (∼8.7 mm/yr) was initiated immediately after the eruption of ∼15 Ma andesite flows; strain was accommodated by high-angle, closely spaced (1–2 km), east-dipping normal faults which rotated and remained active to low angles as extension continued. A post-12 Ma period of extension at low strain rates produced a second generation of normal faults and two prominent dextral strike–slip faults which strike NW, subparallel to the dextral faults of the Walker Lane at this latitude. A new pul...
Synthetic approaches to oligomeric natural products

Covering: up to the end of 2010 This review aims to examine families of oligomeric natural products, collections whose members are built from the successive union of a simpler secondary metabolite. After providing a collated series of examples of such families, classified either as serial or non-serial oligomers based on the mode of monomer union, various synthetic approaches that have been developed to prepare selected members in the laboratory are discussed.
OCTAHEDRAL METAL CARBONYLS. 56.1 KINETICS AND MECHANISM OF LIGAND EXCHANGE IN [4-METHYL,1,2-BIS(METHYLTHIO)BENZENE]-TETRACARBONYLCHROMIUM(O)

Abstract The kinetics and mechanism of displacement of the chelating ligand bmtb (= 4-methyl-1,2-bis(methylthio)benzene) from (bmtb)Cr(CO)4 by L (= tri(isopropyl) phosphite, triethyl phosphite) in chlorobenzene (CB) and 1,2-dichloroethane (DCE) have been studied. The reaction obeys a rate law, -d[(bmtb)Cr(CO)4]/dt = k[(bmtb)Cr(CO)4][L]. Although two limiting mechanisms, one involving rate-determining nucleophilic attack at the metal atom and the other rate-determining reversible ring-opening may be envisioned, activation data in CB taken over a 75 degree temperature range and a thousand-fold change in k demonstrate that only one reaction pathway is accessible. Despite the slightly negative entropies of activation observed, the latter mechanism is favoured based upon a comparison of the data to that obtained for other closely-related systems.
Problem finding skills as components in the creative process

Abstract The present investigation compared the impact of explicit and standard instructions on six tests of divergent thinking. Two of these tests assessed real-world divergent thinking; two tests assessed real-world problem generation; and the last two assessed a combination of problem generation and divergent thinking (i.e. examinees chose one of the problems they had themselves identified, and then generated ideas and solutions). Importantly, all tasks focused on problems occurring in the natural environment. In particular, examinees (80 college students) were asked to give solutions for problems concerning both work and school situations. The results revealed significant differences among the various tests and differences between the explicit and standard instructional groups. Importantly, only the scores elicited by explicit instructions were significantly correlated with—and predictive of—creative activities and accomplishments. Implications for future research are discussed.
3,4-Epoxy-1-butene, a reactive metabolite of 1,3-butadiene, induces somatic mutations in Xpc-null mice.

Xpc-null (Xpc−/−) mice, deficient in the global genome repair subpathway of nucleotide excision repair (NER-GGR), were exposed by intraperitoneal (IP) injection to a 300 mg/kg mutagenic dose of 3,4-epoxy-1-butene (EB), to investigate NER's potential role in repairing butadiene (BD) epoxide DNA lesions. Mutagenic sensitivity was assessed using the Hprt assay. Xpc−/− mice were significantly more sensitive to EB exposure, exhibiting an average 2.8-fold increase in Hprt mutant frequency (MF) relative to those of exposed Xpc+/+ (wild-type) mice. As a positive control for NER-GGR, additional mice were exposed by IP injection to a 150 mg/kg mutagenic dose of benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P). The Xpc−/− mice had MFs 2.9-fold higher than those of exposed Xpc+/+ mice. These results suggest that NER-GGR plays a role in recognizing and repairing some of the DNA adducts formed following in vivo exposure to EB. Additional research is needed to examine the response of Xpc−/− mice, as well as other NER-deficient strains, to inhaled BD. Furthermore, it is likely that alternative DNA repair pathways also are involved in restoring genomic integrity compromised by BD-epoxide DNA damage. Collaborative studies are currently underway to address these critical issues. Environ. Mol. Mutagen., 2006. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Site-Directed Mutations of the 4Fe-Ferredoxin from the Hyperthermophilic Archaeon Pyrococcus furiosus: Role of the Cluster-Coordinating Aspartate in Physiological Electron Transfer Reactions†

Ferredoxin from the hyperthermophilic archaeon Pyrococcus furiosus is a monomeric protein (7.5 kDa) that contains a single [4Fe-4S]1+, 2+ cluster. The protein is unusual in that its cluster is coordinated by three Cys and one Asp residue, rather than by the typical four Cys residues. Site-directed mutagenesis has been used to obtain mutant forms in which the cluster-coordinating Asp was replaced by Cys (D14C) and also by Ser (D14S), together with a third mutant (A1K) which contained N-Met-Lys at the N-terminus instead of N-Ala. Analyses using UV-visible absorption, far-UV circular dichroism, and EPR spectroscopy showed that there were no gross structural differences between the native and the three mutant forms and that they each contained a [4Fe-4S] cluster. The reduction potentials, determined by direct electrochemistry (at 23 degrees C, pH 8.0), of the D14S, D14C, and A1K mutants were -490, -422, and -382 mV, respectively, which compare with values of -375 mV for native [4Fe-4S]-containing ferredoxin and -160 mV for the [3Fe-4S]-containing form. The native, D14C, and A1K proteins functioned as electron acceptors in vitroat 80 degrees C for pyruvate ferredoxin oxidoreductase (POR) and aldehyde ferredoxin oxidoreductase (AOR) from P. furiosus using pyruvate and crotonaldehyde as substrates, respectively. The calculated kcat/Km values were similar for the three proteins when ferredoxin reduction was measured either directly by visible absorption or indirectly by coupling ferredoxin reoxidation to the reduction of metronidazole. In contrast, using the D14S mutant and the 3Fe-form of the native ferredoxin as electron acceptors, the activity with AOR was virtually undetectable, and with POR the calculated kcat/Km values were at least 3-fold lower than those obtained with the native (4Fe-), D14C, and A1K proteins. The ability of this 4Fe-ferredoxin to accept electrons from two oxidoreductases of the same organism is therefore not absolutely dependent upon Asp14, as this residue can be effectively replaced by Cys. However, the efficiency of electron transfer is compromised if Asp14 is replaced by Ser, or if the 4Fe-cluster is converted to the 3Fe-form, but Asp14 does not appear to offer any kinetic advantage over the expected Cys.
Shear strengthening of un-reinforced concrete masonry walls with fabric-reinforced-cementitious-matrix

Abstract In this paper, the in-plane behavior of un-reinforced concrete masonry walls externally strengthened with a fabric-reinforced cementitious matrix (FRCM) system is investigated. The experimental program consists of testing nine un-reinforced concrete masonry walls strengthened on both sides with two different FRCM schemes (one and four reinforcement fabrics). The analytical model as per ACI 549-13 is used to predict the shear capacity of the strengthened walls. The effects of design limitations in the approach proposed by ACI 549-13 are also discussed. Finally, experimental data from other research programs using fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites are presented to demonstrate that when normalized shear capacity is related to a calibrated reinforcement ratio, the two overlay strengthening technologies match well.
"Can't Get No (Dis)Satisfaction": Professional Satisfaction with Professional-Client Encounters.

Satisfaction with professional-client encounters was ascertained from 173 genetic counselors for each of 1,044 counseling sessions. Counselors were satisfied with 69% of the sessions and very satisfied with 25%. Counselors were dissatisfied with 5% and very dissatisfied almost never. Professional satisfaction was not associated with client learning of medical information or with discussion of items of greatest concern to clients. The major correlates of professionals' satisfaction were perceptions that they were communicating knowledge successfully. Additional correlates of being “very” satisfied included having better-educated clients, opportunity to use special expertise, and applicability of technology.
Frequency resolution in children.

The auditory frequency resolving ability of preschool children, school-aged children, and adults was assessed in a standard forced-choice masking experiment. Thresholds for pure-tone signals at 500...
Water-based synthesis of cationic hydrogel particles: effect of the reaction parameters and in vitro cytotoxicity study.

Micro/nanoscale hydrogel particles are of great interest for biomedical applications, such as carriers for therapeutic delivery. Compared to conventional hydrogel particles that are mainly composed of vinylic monomers, we have introduced a simple methodology to prepare multi-functional cationic hydrogel particles by adopting the epoxy–amine chemistry in water exemplifying “click” characteristics. Herein, we investigate the effects of key reaction parameters, including time, temperature, reactant concentration and amine–epoxy stoichiometric ratio, on the preparation and properties of such hydrogel particles. Our results indicated that the aforementioned parameters could greatly impact the particle formation. The hydrodynamic diameter, surface charge, and morphology of the resultant particles were characterized by dynamic light scattering and scanning electron microscopy. Particle size was inversely correlated with the following reaction parameters: reaction time, temperature, and reactant concentration. This is likely due to the influence of the parameters on the formation of the intermediate thermosensitive prepolymers. Different reaction conditions yielded a wide range of particle surface charges, varying from +47 mV to +71 mV. Morphological analysis also revealed significant effects induced by the variation of reaction time and temperature. All particles exhibited a temperature-dependent swelling property. However, the extent of swelling and sensitivity varied depending on the reaction conditions. Finally, in vitro cytocompatibility studies based on murine RAW264.7 macrophages showed the particle acute cytotoxicity being dose and surface charge dependent. Cytocompatibility of the cationic hydrogel particles was improved by reducing the surface charges with variation of the synthesis conditions.
Impact of tricuspid regurgitation on long-term survival

Abstract Objectives The goal of this study was to examine mortality associated with tricuspid regurgitation (TR) after controlling for left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), right ventricular (RV) dilation and dysfunction, and pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP). Background Tricuspid regurgitation is a frequent echocardiographic finding; however, the association with prognosis is unclear. Methods We retrospectively identified 5,223 patients (age 66.5 ± 12.8 years; predominantly male) undergoing echocardiography at one of three Veterans Affairs Medical Center laboratories over a period of four years. Follow-up data were available for four years (mean 498 ± 402 days). Kaplan-Meier and proportional hazards methods were used to compare differences in survival among TR grades. Results Mortality increased with increasing severity of TR. The one-year survival was 91.7% with no TR, 90.3% with mild TR, 78.9% with moderate TR, and 63.9% with severe TR. Moderate or greater TR was associated with increased mortality regardless of PASP (hazard ratio [HR] 1.31, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.16 to 1.49 for PASP >40 mm Hg; HR 1.32, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.62 for PASP ≤40 mm Hg) and LVEF (HR 1.49, 95% CI 1.34 to 1.66 for EF Conclusions We conclude that increasing TR severity is associated with worse survival in men regardless of LVEF or pulmonary artery pressure. Severe TR is associated with a poor prognosis, independent of age, biventricular systolic function, RV size, and dilation of the inferior vena cava.
Inverse Stieltjes-like Functions and Inverse Problems for Systems with Schrodinger Operator

A class of scalar inverse Stieltjes-like functions is realized as linear-fractional transformations of transfer functions of conservative systems based on a Schrodinger operator T h in L 2au][a,+∞) with a non-selfadjoint boundary condition. In particular it is shown that any inverse Stieltjes function of this class can be realized in the unique way so that the main operator \( \mathbb{A} \) possesses a special semi-boundedness property. We derive formulas that restore the system uniquely and allow to find the exact value of a non-real boundary parameter h of the operator T h as well as a real parameter μ that appears in the construction of the elements of the realizing system. An elaborate investigation of these formulas shows the dynamics of the restored parameters h and μ in terms of the changing free term α from the integral representation of the realizable function.
Seismic imaging of the upper ocean

In recent years, seismic imaging has become a commonly used method to observe fine-scale ocean structures. In this technique, sound waves are generated and reflected off oceanographic structures such as the thermocline, the layer separating warm surface waters from colder, deeper waters. The reflectivity of the thermocline is determined by its thickness and the temperature difference between the warm surface water and colder layers below; by examining the properties of the reflected sound waves, scientists can get a picture of the thermocline structure.
A Genetic Map of Peromyscus with Chromosomal Assignment of Linkage Groups (A Peromyscus Genetic Map)

The rodent genus Peromyscus is the most numerous and species-rich mammalian group in North America. The naturally occurring diversity within this genus allows opportunities to investigate the genetic basis of adaptation, monogamy, behavioral and physiological phenotypes, growth control, genomic imprinting, and disease processes. Increased genomic resources including a high quality genetic map are needed to capitalize on these opportunities. We produced interspecific hybrids between the prairie deer mouse (P. maniculatus bairdii) and the oldfield mouse (P. polionotus) and scored meiotic recombination events in backcross progeny. A genetic map was constructed by genotyping of backcross progeny at 185 gene-based and 155 microsatellite markers representing all autosomes and the X-chromosome. Comparison of the constructed genetic map with the molecular maps of Mus and Rattus and consideration of previous results from interspecific reciprocal whole chromosome painting allowed most linkage groups to be unambiguously assigned to specific Peromyscus chromosomes. Based on genomic comparisons, this Peromyscus genetic map covers ~83 % of the Rattus genome and 79 % of the Mus genome. This map supports previous results that the Peromyscus genome is more similar to Rattus than Mus. For example, coverage of the 20 Rattus autosomes and the X-chromosome is accomplished with only 28 segments of the Peromyscus map, but coverage of the 19 Mus autosomes and the X-chromosome requires 40 chromosomal segments of the Peromyscus map. Furthermore, a single Peromyscus linkage group corresponds to about 91 % of the rat and only 76 % of the mouse X-chromosomes.
Plasma membrane alterations due to promoters and antipromoters

The attachment of tumor cells to plastic surfaces coated with concanavalin A is inhibited by agents that either increase or decrease the apparent microviscosity of the plasma membrane. Since some promoters have been reported to decrease the plasma membrane microviscosity of treated cells, we have tested whether these agents inhibit tumor cell attachment. All 13 promoters tested were found to inhibit attachment at nontoxic concentrations. The apparent microviscosity of treated plasma membrane was reduced in the 11 cases where a measurement was possible. Eight of nine nonpromoting agents did not inhibit attachment. The exception, Aroclor 1254, was inhibitory on prolonged incubation. Finally, 10 of 13 antipromoting agents were found to also inhibit attachment. The apparent membrane microviscosity was increased following treatment with these inhibitory antipromoters. Thus, a consistent feature of promoter and antipromoter treatment is an alteration of the functional and the apparent fluid properties of the plasma membrane. These characteristics may be useful in the design of an in vitro assay for promoting activities in environmental samples.
The AAA-ATPase p97 is essential for outer mitochondrial membrane protein turnover.

Recent studies have revealed a role for the Ub/proteasome system in the regulation and turnover of OMM-associated proteins. The data presented show that an AAA-ATPase, p97, is required for the prot...
DNA synthesis and mitosis in well-differentiated mammalian cardiocytes.

Incorporation of [ 3 H ] thymidine into nuclei of heart cells of 2-day-old rats indicates that neonatal cardiac cells containing well-aligned myofibrils synthesize DNA. In these highly differentiated cells, neither the presence of contractile proteins nor their organization into myofibrils inhibits either DNA synthesis or mitosis.
False memory for associated word lists in individuals and collaborating groups

Using the Deese/Roediger-McDermott (DRM) paradigm, we investigated recall of presented and nonpresented associated words by collaborating groups, nominal groups, and individuals. In Experiment 1, participants recalled individually and then recalled in collaborating groups. Nominal groups made up of individual recall produced more presented and nonpresented associated words than did collaborating groups. Collaborating groups recalled more presented words than did individuals, but not more nonpresented words. In Experiment 2, collaborating groups versus individuals was a between-subjects variable, and everyone made two recall attempts. For recall, the pattern was the same as that in Experiment 1, in that collaborating groups recalled more presented words than did individuals but about the same number of nonpresented words. In a DRM paradigm, collaborating groups were able to produce more presented words than were individuals, without increasing their false recall.
A study of the nucleoli of certain insects and the crayfish

Nucleoli in the germ cells of certain Orthoptera, Hemiptera and the crayfish have been studied. In Ceuthophilus (camel cricket) these bodies are found to be definitely connected with chromatin threads and are believed to be products of chromatin. The large structure in the ova of Nemobius (cricket) is interpreted as a nucleolus because of its very irregular behavior and apparent complete disappearance. It is found that some of the nucleoli of Gelastocoris (toad bug) arise within the chromatin threads. Observations on Cambarus (crayfish) fail to show nucleolar extrusion, a phenomenon which has formerly been reported for this form. The unique behavior and fate of the nucleolar material in Pselliopus (true bug) is described. In this species the nucleolar material is added to and becomes part of the general oxychromatin network of the nucleus. This study fully supports the opinion that nucleoli have a chromatin origin.
Electro/Acoustic Improvisation and Deeply Listening Machines

In this paper we discuss our approach to designing improvising music systems whose intelligence is centred around careful listening, particularly to qualities related to timbre and texture. Our interest lies in systems that can make contextual decisions based on the overall character of the sound field, as well as the specific shape and contour created by each player. We describe the history and paradigm of ‘expanded instrument’ systems, which has led to one instrumental system (GREIS) focused on manual sculpting of sound with machine assistance, and one improvising system (FILTER) which introduces the ability to listen, recognize and transform a performer’s sound in a contextually relevant fashion. We describe the different modules of these improvising performance systems, as well as specific musical performances as examples of their use. We also describe our free improvisation trio, in order to describe the musical context that situates and informs our research.
CONTRACTILE RESPONSE OF NEWBORN LAMB PULMONARY ARTERY (PA) TO SEROTONIN AND HISTAMINE IS ASSOCIATED WITH PROTEIN TYROSINE KINASE- AND NITRIC OXIDE-DEPENDENT MECHANISMS † 2062

The purpose of the present study is to determine if contractile property of PA is regulated by protein tyrosine kinase [PTK])- and nitric oxide[NO]-dependent signaling systems. We preliminarily evaluated, using tissue chamber technique, effects of genistein[G], a PTK inhibitor, and SNAP[(+/-)-S-Nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine], an NO donor, in histamine[H]](100 μM)- and serotonin [S](1 μM, 10 μM)-challenged PA preparations (wet weight ≈0.75mg, initial load 1g) as a model. [G](20μM, 80 μM) dose-dependently relaxed [S](10 μM)-induced maximum contraction (0.73±0.03 g/mg tissue) to (0.57±0.01, 0.01±0.01 g/mg, respectively; equal to 22%, 98% relaxation) and[H]-induced maximum contraction (0.16±0.09 g/mg) to (-0.05±0.04,-0.09±0.07 g/mg, respectively; equal to 160%, 286% relaxation). SNAP(1μM, 10 μM) relaxed [S](10 μM)-induced maximum contraction(0.92±0.03 g/mg) to (0.38±0.14, 0.17±0.02 g/mg, respectively; equal to 58%, 78% relaxation) in dose-dependent manner. Interestingly, [G](20 μM)-induced relaxation of both [S]- and [H]-induced contraction had a slow onset but was steady and sustaining while SNAP caused rapid relaxation of both [S]- and [H]-induced contraction. SNAP-induced relaxation of [S]-contraction was partially and dose-dependently recovered. LY-83583, an inhibitor of NO-induced activation of soluble guanylate cyclase, reversed SNAP-induced relaxation of both [S]- and [H]-contraction. In contrast, SOV reversed [G]-induced relaxation of both [S]- and[H]-contraction. L-NAME (100 μM), NO synthase (NOS) inhibitor, did not effect SNAP- or Zaprinast [Z](c-GMP phosphodiesterase inhibitor)-induced relaxation. [Z](10 μM) further enhanced SNAP-induced relaxation of[S](1μM)-contraction. Diphenyleneiodonium chloride (DPI) (5 μM), another NOS inhibitor, showed a similar effect of [Z]. Based on these data, we conclude that contractile property of isolated newborn lamb PA is regulated by PTK mediated signal transduction pathway(s) and that [S]- and [H]-induced contraction in this paradigm is associated with PTK-dependent mechanisms and linked to NO-responsive element(s). {supported in part by Institute for Korean-American Studies; American Heart Association, national council#95009270}
In vitro membrane reconstitution of the T-cell receptor proximal signaling network

T-cell receptor (TCR) phosphorylation is controlled by a complex network that includes Lck, a Src family kinase (SFK), the tyrosine phosphatase CD45 and the Lck-inhibitory kinase Csk. How these competing phosphorylation and dephosphorylation reactions are modulated to produce T-cell triggering is not fully understood. Here we reconstituted this signaling network using purified enzymes on liposomes, recapitulating the membrane environment in which they normally interact. We demonstrate that Lck's enzymatic activity can be regulated over an ~10-fold range by controlling its phosphorylation state. By varying kinase and phosphatase concentrations, we constructed phase diagrams that reveal ultrasensitivity in the transition from the quiescent to the phosphorylated state and demonstrate that co-clustering TCR and Lck or detaching Csk from the membrane can trigger TCR phosphorylation. Our results provide insight into the mechanism of TCR signaling as well as other signaling pathways involving SFKs.
REVERSIBILITY OF CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE LUNG DISEASE IN INFANTS FOLLOWING REPAIR OF VENTRICULAR SEPTAL DEFECT(VSD)

The persistence of signs of obstructive lung disease in some infants with VSD and left to right shunt, despite apparent cardiac compensation, suggests underlying or unrelated lung disease. To determine whether the chronic lung hyperinflation and respiratory acidosis seen in these infants is reversible, we analyzed the course of nine infants who presented at 1 month to 7 months of age. All had wheezing and persistent x-ray evidence of hyperinflation, either generalized or lobar, and five had chronic hypercarbia. The increase in heart size and pulmonary vascularity varied from mild to severe; pulmonary to systemic blood flow ratios ranged from 1.8 to 4.1/1, and pulmonary to systemic mean arterial pressure ratios ranged from 0.3 to 0.9. There was no relationship between the severity of cardiac disease and the manifestation of obstructive lung disease. Both chest x-ray and arterial blood gas findings reverted to normal in all of the patients following open heart correction of the VSD at 4 to 12 months of age. We conclude that the chronic obstructive lung disease in infants with VSD and left to right shunt is directly related to the cardiac disease and is completely reversible when the heart lesion is surgically corrected.
Using TRIZ, parametric modeling, FEA simulation, and rapid prototyping to foster creative design

Fostering creative design within the curriculum in engineering and engineering technology is often both daunting and time-consuming. This paper describes the efforts in the Engineering Technology Department at Western Washington University to foster creative design within the curriculum by using TRIZ, parametric modeling, finite element analysis (FEA) simulation, and rapid prototyping. First, the paper describes how assessment enabled the faculty to create a collaborative environment. Second, the introduction to the design process using parametric modeling and 3D printing rapid prototyping technology during the freshman experience is described. Next, the paper describes TRIZ, the Theory of Inventive Problem Solving, in detail and how that philosophy can be used within an academic setting to foster both creativity and efficient product and process design. Then the paper details how TRIZ, FEA simulation and Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) are actually used in the senior year. The paper concludes with the results of the department's assessment efforts and plans for future.
Expanding surgical clerkships to remote community sites: the success of the Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Montana, and Idaho experience.

Abstract Background The purpose of this analysis was to determine if the surgical clerkship model and site affect educational outcomes and student postclerkship perceptions. Methods Data from University of Washington students participating in surgical clerkships at traditional/academic or community/apprentice sites across Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Montana, and Idaho (WWAMI) between 2005 and 2007 were gathered retrospectively. Comparisons of final examination scores as well as postclerkship student evaluations of the educational experience were made between traditional and community training sites. Results The mean final examination scores at WWAMI sites were significantly higher than those at traditional academic sites. Furthermore, WWAMI sites were rated higher with respect to time spent by faculty in direct observation, quality of the clerkship as a whole, and overall contribution to medical education. Conclusions Community surgical clerkship sites remote from an academic institution can provide an excellent learning experience for students.
VANISHING TETRAD DIFFERENCES AND MODEL STRUCTURE

The tetrad representation theorem, due to Spirtes, Glymour, and Scheines (1993), gives a graphical condition necessary and sufficient for the vanishing of an individual tetrad difference in a recur...
A new voice scheduling scheme for broadcast bus local area networks

Scheduling of voice traffic on broadcast-bus local area networks is considered. A voice scheduling scheme is proposed and evaluated. In this scheme, active voice calls are organized using a distributed global queue. Access scheduling overhead is reduced by voice packet arrival anticipation. To guarantee fairness and to reduce variance of the waiting time, the voice packet build-up during the overhead period is fairly shared among all calls by a round-robin service discipline. Three different voice packet service cases, namely nonexhaustive, exhaustive, and no-queueing, are evaluated. Simple closed-form approximation formulas have been proposed which show good agreement with simulation. The proposed scheme is shown to have performance approaching that of the centralized system. >
Exuberant Cortical Thymocyte Proliferation Mimicking T-lymphoblastic Lymphoma Within Recurrent Large Inguinal Lymph Node Masses of Localized Castleman Disease

We report a 13-year-old adolescent girl, the youngest thus far, with "an indolent T-lymphoblastic" proliferation (~10%) that uniquely presented within recurrent, large inguinal lymph node masses in a predominating (90%) background of Castleman disease. These nodal masses were resected thrice; the patient is well 5 years after diagnosis without further treatment. Histologically, the features of Castleman disease, hyaline vascular type, were present. Importantly, the interfollicular T-lymphoblastic component occurred as multiple clusters and islands of variable shapes and sizes composed of small "lymphoblasts" indistinguishable from normal cortical thymocytes but without thymic epithelial cells. Immunohistochemically, these lymphoblasts were consistent with the intermediate stage of T-cell differentiation (TdT(+)CD34(-)CD99(+)CD1a(+)CD2(+)CD3(+)CD4(+)CD8(+)CD5(+)CD7(+)CD10(+) [subset]), with 80% Ki-67. Molecularly, the T cells were nonclonal. Our case provides evidence for the benign nature of this highly unusual and poorly understood entity; because the current terminology can be readily misinterpreted as an indolent lymphoblastic lymphoma, we suggest a new term accurately reflecting this entity.
Image processing in the context of a visual model

A specific relationship between some of the current knowledge and thought concerning human vision and the problem of controlling subjective distortion in processed images are reviewed.
Prereading/Language Development in Two Day Care Centers

The purpose of this study was to analyze the language of eight 4-year-old children from two day care centers as they described a picture and told a story from pictures in a wordless picture book. The children's oral language was analyzed for vocabulary, syntax, completeness, and accuracy. Their stories were assessed for Ap- plebee's narrative conventions and structure. Comprehension of the picture and the book was assessed by questions. The children's descriptions and stories, although short, contained a variety of vocabulary words and an above average number of words per T-unit for their age. However, their stories did not contain any narrative conventions nor did the children demonstrate that they had achieved a sense of the story. The children's descriptions were only partially accurate, and they demonstrated limited comprehension of the picture and story. These results are discussed in relation to the day care and pre-school language curriculum and environ- ment. Implications are drawn for the children's prereading development and their readiness for beginning reading instruction. Prereading development is fostered by children's oral language fluency, listen- ing comprehension, wide experiences with books, and an interest in printed words found in their environment. A faciiitative prereading environment gives children op- portunities to look at books, to hear stories read, to tell stories, to see printed labels and words, and to engage in functional reading of environmental words such as their names or logos for popular products. It also allows them to experiment with scribbl- ing and writing and to receive adult feedback and interaction with both oral and writ- ten language (Teale, 1978). Does day care provide this type of an environment for developing a child's language and prereading skills? Relatively little information is available in the literature to answer that question. In recent reviews of day care research, Belsky and Steinberg (1978) and Etaugh (1980) noted that most day care studies consider only short-term social, emotional, and cognitive effects of day care on very young children (often infants) in high quality university-based centers. Belsky and Steinberg concluded that "with regard to children's intellectual development, the
NEW SPECIES AND PREVIOUSLY UNKNOWN MALES OF NEOTROPICAL CLEPTOBIOTIC STINGLESS BEES (HYMENOPTERA, APIDAE, Lestrimelitta)

Three new species of cleptobiotic stingless bees of the genus Lestrimelitta Friese, L. opita sp. n. and L. huilensis sp. n. from Colombia and L. catira sp. n. from Venezuela, are described and figured. The males of the Central American species L. chamelensis, L. danuncia, and L. mourei are also described and figured. New geographical records and an updated key to species from Central America and northern South America are provided.
Multi-profile hidden Markov model for mood, dietary intake, and physical activity in an intervention study of childhood obesity

Motivated by an application to childhood obesity data in a clinical trial, this paper describes a multi-profile hidden Markov model (HMM) that uses several temporal chains of measures respectively related to psychosocial attributes, dietary intake, and energy expenditure behaviors of adolescents in a school setting. Using these psychological and behavioral profiles, the model delineates health states from the longitudinal data set. Furthermore, a two-level regression model that takes into account the clustering effects of students within school is used to assess the effects of school- and community-based interventions and other risk factors on the transition between health states over time. The results from our study suggest that female students tend to decrease their physical activities despite a high level of anxiety about weight. The finding is consistent across intervention and control arms.