cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Therapeutic Potential of Nucleic Acids when Combined with Extracellular Vesicles

Extracellular vesicles (EVs), endogenous nanocarriers of proteins, lipids, and genetic material, have been harnessed as intrinsic delivery vectors for nucleic acid therapies. EVs are nanosized lipid bilayer bound vesicles released from most cell types responsible for delivery of functional biologic material to mediate intercellular communication and to modulate recipient cell phenotypes. Due to their innate biological role and composition, EVs possess several advantages as delivery vectors for nucleic acid based therapies including low immunogenicity and toxicity, high bioavailability, and ability to be engineered to enhance targeting to specific recipient cells in vivo. In this review, the current understanding of the biological role of EVs as well as the advancements in loading EVs to deliver nucleic acid therapies are summarized. We discuss the current methods and associated challenges in loading EVs and the prospects of utilizing the inherent characteristics of EVs as a delivery vector of nucleic acid therapies for genetic disorders.
Teach Poiseuille First — A Call for a Paradigm Shift in Fluid Dynamics Education

A classic, life science-themed fluid dynamics scenario is blood flow through a constriction. Physics teachers traditionally ask students if the pressure experienced by the blood in the constriction is greater, lesser, or the same as before the constriction. The conventional approach to resolving this question calls upon the equation of continuity, as well as the Bernoulli equation. Biological systems, however, experience a resistance to flow, and a consequential pressure drop, that is often better described by Poiseuille’s law. Within this apparent conflict, which approach is correct? This paper argues that Poiseuille’s law is the more appropriate choice for most biological examples and encourages a Poiseuille-first approach to teaching fluid dynamics in classes designed for life science majors.
Comparing traditional modeling approaches versus predictive analytics methods for predicting multiple sclerosis relapse

Abstract Objective This study compared traditional statistical methods to different predictive analytics methods on the endpoint of multiple sclerosis (MS) relapse. Study setting This is a secondary data analysis on four different MS Centers based on the third year of data, July 2019-June 2020. Study design The parent study is a two-part, 3-year clinical quality improvement prospective study that started in June 2017 and concluded in June 2020, and utilizes a prospective stepped-wedge randomized design. Binary logistic regression was compared with other machine learning models, specifically ridge, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), and random forest. Data collection This study used electronic health record data extracted at the individual level and ‘rolled up’ to the system and population level. Inclusion criteria included participants aged 18 years or older, with MS presenting to any of the four centers, who entered the study in any quarter. Exclusion criteria included cases with missing or incorrectly input data and those who refused to participate in the study. Principal findings When comparing relapse indices across models, random forest significantly outperformed logistic regression and other machine learning algorithms (ΔperfA =27.1%, ΔperfM =27.5%). However, for ΔperfF, logistic regression and random forest performed relatively the same. Ridge and LASSO outperformed logistic regression (ΔperfM1 =0.9%, ΔperfM2 =9.4%, ΔperfF2=25.8%, respectively). Conclusion Multiple sclerosis is a complex and costly chronic (“3C”) condition that currently has no cure. In a condition like MS, which has an unpredictable course, the use of predictive analytics could help health systems learn better, faster, and to improve more effectively and predict rather than react to emerging health needs for people with MS. Comparing the predictability of relapse across various models with a predictive analytics framework can potentially change how we manage MS care.
Ethnobiology: Overview of a Growing Field

Department of Anthropology, University of California, Riverside, CADEFINITION OF A FIELD 1AN INTERDISCIPLINARY FIELD 2LOCAL BIOLOGY AS SCIENCE 3ETHNOBIOLOGY SPREADS OUT 6ETHNOBIOLOGY GOES INTERNATIONAL 8“TEK” AND ITS SORROWS 8MOVING TOWARD MORE LOCAL PARTICIPATION 9INTERFACING WITH POLITICAL ECOLOGY 10ETHNOBIOLOGY AS FUTURE 11A NOTE ON USAGE 11ACKNOWLEDGMENTS 12REFERENCES 12God put the fever in Europe and the quinine in America in order to teach usthe solidarity that should prevailamong all the peoples of the earth.
Localization and alternative splicing of agrin mRNA in adult rat brain: transcripts encoding isoforms that aggregate acetylcholine receptors are not restricted to cholinergic regions

Agrin is a protein implicated in the formation and maintenance of the neuromuscular junction. In addition to motor neurons, agrin mRNA has been detected in the brains of embryonic rat and chick and adult marine ray, suggesting that this molecule may also be involved in the formation of synapses between neurons. As a step toward understanding agrin's role in the CNS, we utilized Northern blot and in situ hybridization techniques to analyze the regional distribution and cellular localization of agrin mRNA in the spinal cord and brain of adult rats. The results of these studies indicate that the agrin mRNA is expressed predominantly by neurons broadly distributed throughout the adult CNS. Moreover, expression of agrin mRNA is not restricted to cholinergic structures or regions of the brain receiving cholinergic input. Recently, RNA isolated from rat embryonic spinal cord was shown to contain four alternatively spliced agrin mRNAs, referred to as agrin0, agrin8, agrin11, and agrin19, each of which encodes agrin proteins that are active in acetylcholine receptor aggregating assays (Ferns et al., 1992). Using the polymerase chain reaction we demonstrate that all four of these agrin transcripts are expressed within the adult CNS. Agrin0, agrin8, and agrin19 were present in all regions analyzed. In contrast, agrin11 was detected only in forebrain. Results of these studies indicate that both the level of expression and pattern of alternative splicing of agrin mRNA are differentially regulated in the brain. The broad and predominantly neuronal distribution of agrin mRNA in the adult brain suggests that, in addition to its role at the neuromuscular junction, agrin may play a role in formation and maintenance of synapses between neurons in the CNS.
Amino acid sequencing by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry using perfluoro-dideuteroalkylated peptide derivatives: A. Gas chromatographic retention indices

The gas chromatographic properties of more than 200 O-trimethylsilylated perfluoro-dideuteroalkyl polyamino alcohols were evaluated which were obtained by LiAlD4-reduction and O-trimethylsilylation of N-perfluoroalkyl oligopeptide methyl esters. Complex derivatized mixtures were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry which contained between 2 nmol and 12 μmol of the original peptides. Retention indices of these derivatives can be predicted by summation of retention index increments which are assigned to each amino acid residue. Upon application of a uniform factor, the predicted and experimentally found retention index values generally agree within ±30 units up to retention index 3000. Larger compounds, especially the heptafluoro derivatives, emerge significantly earlier than expected, which makes these the most useful derivatives of complex peptides.
Pruritic papular eruption of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome: a clinicopathologic study.

The pruritic papular eruption of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome is characterized by generalized, pruritic, skin-colored papules and nodules. Chronic lesions are excoriated and hyperpigmented. The eruption and pruritus typically wax and wane and are resistant to oral antihistamine and topical steriod therapy. The characteristic histologic features are (1) superficial and mid dermal perivascular and perifollicular mononuclear cell infiltrate with numerous eosinophils and (2) follicular damage of varying degrees. When compared with control subjects, these patients did not demonstrate any significant difference in laboratory or demographic data.
Theoretical models of electron and ion density in the night-time D-region

Abstract Theoretical models of electron and ion density in the night-time D -region have been derived, the objective being to reproduce the characteristics of the experimental profiles available for conditions of middle latitude and low solar activity. The ionizing agents of the atmospheric gases below 90km at night are considered to be galactic cosmic rays and precipitated electrons. It is shown that the ionization distribution is strongly dependent upon the concentration of atomic oxygen and ozone, and different theoretical models for these constituents have been used in the computations. Four species of negative ions are considered to be important and, at all heights, those having high electron affinities are most abundant. It is shown that the reaction O 3 − + N 2 → NO 2 − + NO must be considered the main removal process for O 3 in order to obtain a reasonably good agreement between the computed and observed ionization profiles.
Analysis of multiple criteria decision support systems for cooperative groups

This article reviews research on multiple criteria decision support systems for cooperative groups. The systems included in this survey integrate concepts from group decision theory, multiple criteria decision methodology, and decision support system technology. Three dimensions are considered in the analysis of existing research: the multiple criteria decision technique used to generate decision alternatives or to choose from a given set; the method used to facilitate individual compromise and group consensus; and the application category, if any.
Evoked potentials to dynamic random-dot correlograms in monkey and man: a test for cyclopean perception.

Abstract Dynamic random-dot correlograms elicited cortical evoked potentials in both monkey and human subjects. Control conditions which disturbed the binocular correlation eliminated or diminished the evoked potentials. Thus the evoked potentials were a response to the uniquely binocular, i.e. cyclopean, aspects of the stimulus. The procedure used in this experiment allows a fast, objective assessment of cyclopean perception.
Mammography screening rates decline: a person-time approach to evaluation.

Abstract Objectives Early detection through mammography can reduce breast cancer mortality. This cohort study evaluated trends in mammography screening, demonstrating a person-time approach. Methods Included were women HMO members aged 50–69 from 1999 to 2002 who had not had breast cancer, dysplasia, fibrocystic disease, or implant. The amount of person-time covered by mammography as a percent of the time eligible for mammography screening (the prevention index (PI)) was calculated using electronic data. The denominator was the time during which the guidelines recommended that each participant should have been covered by a mammogram (every 24 months), excluding times when breast mass, abnormal mammogram, galactorrhea, or other breast disorders were under evaluation. The numerator was the time during which she was covered by a mammogram. Results The number of women who contributed person-time increased from 43,283 to 49,512 and the number of screening mammograms declined from 23,586 to 22,719. The overall PI for screening mammography declined from 67.0 (67% of eligible person-time was appropriately covered by a mammogram) to 62.5, and the proportion of women with no coverage during a given year increased 16%. Conclusions This study shows a declining pattern of mammography screening using a person-time approach, a decline greater than that shown by methods that include diagnostic mammograms. The study highlights opportunities for use of the PI and quality improvement initiatives to improve breast cancer outcomes.
EFFECTS OF DMSO ON THE PROPERTIES OF RED BLOOD CELLS IT. ELECTROKINETICS AND SEDIMENTATION

Abstract ABSTRACT The Influence of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) concentrations from 0 to 22% (v/v) was studied on the electrophoretlc nihilities, the droplet formation times, the cell sedimentation rates and the cell sedimentation volumes of fresh and aldehyde-fixed human erythrocytes and on fixed turkey erythrocytes. DMSO influenced the ζ-potentials of the different cells in various ways. These observations remain phenomenoncgical for the time being; it Is not as yet possible to predict quantitatively how the ζ-potentials of given cell types will be affected by the admixture of DMSO. Low concentrations of DMSO (up to 7.5%) cause red cells to swell, resulting in an Increase in sedimentation velocity due to their increased Stokes radius. At higher DMSO concentrations no further swelling occurs so that, due to a decrease in density difference between the cells and the liquid medium, the sedimputation velocities then decrease, Cell sedimentation volumes and droplet formation times reached maxima at 13% DMSO (fo...
Fine mapping of the sequences in domain 5 of high molecular weight kininogen (HK) interacting with heparin and zinc.

Summary. We previously localized the heparin binding region on high molecular weight kininogen to domain 5 (D5) by quantifying the binding using surface plasmon resonance of D5 fused at its N-terminal to glutathione-S-transferase. We further examined GST-(H475-S626) which at 100 nm was previously shown to be ineffective in reversing the heparin acceleration of antithrombin inhibition of thrombin. However, we now show that at a concentration of 400 nm, complete reversal of accelerated inhibition occurred. To characterize the interacting sequences on D5, four peptides representing surface loops of a molecular model were synthesized. Peptides H475-H485 and G440-G455, rich in histidine and low in lysine, showed weak or no detectable binding in the absence of Zn++, but tighter binding in the presence of Zn++. H483-K497 containing three histidines and six lysines showed tight binding without Zn++, and increased in avidity with Zn++. In contrast, G486-K502, low in histidine and high in lysine, showed tight binding (KD = 0.8 µm) in the absence and presence of Zn++. Both H483-K497 and G486-K502 were effective in neutralizing the accelerated inhibition by heparin of thrombin by antithrombin in the absence of Zn++. Therefore, a set of lysine residues in the sequence of K487-K502 is responsible for Zn++-independent binding of heparin. Further, a group of histidine residues in sequence range of H475-H485 contributes to Zn++-dependent binding of heparin to HK-D5.
A note on seniority and political competition

Seniority conveys political power to legislators despite the fact that all legislators have equally valuable voting power. What prevents a coalition of junior members from exercising their political power to form a coalition and claim an equal share of the power by eliminating the benefits of seniority? Several models explain how valuable services are supplied by senior members, so the returns to seniority may be looked at as compensation for their services. This still does not explain why the providers of those services should be chosen based on seniority rather than on some other criterion.
THE MATHEMATICS OF PAOLO TOSCANELLI

title RIASSUNTO /title Paolo dal Pozzo Toscanelli (1397-1482) fu ritenuto di cos rilevante importanza come matematico, da essere giudicato rivale di Archimede. Ma l'unica evidenza diretta della sua competenza nelle matematiche ci risulta da una sola pagina di misure che trovasi in un manoscritto di osservazioni sulle comete. L'A. prende in analisi questa pagina per la prima volta per dimostrare che il Toscanelli era a conoscenza della trigonometria sferica tradizionale di derivazione tolemaica ed usava i teoremi di Menelao per risolvere i problemi astronomici. Egli usava calcoli e simboli sessagesimali, i calcoli decimali e scriveva le frazioni in forma moderna. Nella pagina del manoscritto preso in esame anche menzionata una osservazione di Giove.
Evaluation of the posttraining generalization test procedure for measuring amount of learning

A common procedure for determining what S learns when he is trained to respond to a compound stimulus consists of giving a posttraining generalization test in which S encounters stimuli differing from the training stimulus along various physical dimensions. If S produces a sloped gradient along a given dimension, then it is concluded that he acquired information about the value of the test stimulus on that dimension during initial training; if S produces a flat gradient along a given dimension, then it is concluded that he did not acquire information about the value of the test stimulus on that dimension. The present experiment demonstrates that this procedure systematically underestimates the amount of information that has been acquired about the test stimulus.
Isoelectric focusing studies of A2/1957 influenza neuraminidase and its subunits

Abstract Purified A2/1957 influenza neuraminidase (mucopolysaccharide N- acetylneuraminylhydrolase , EC 3.2.1.18) and its subunits were examined by isoelectric focusing (‘electrofocusing’) in sucrose gradients. Native neuraminidase contained enzymically active components with isoelectric points (pI) of about 5.2, 5.35, 5.5, 5.8, 6.2 and 6.5. The major components were at about pI 5.5 and 5.8. Neuraminidase was dissociated into subunits, whose sulfhydryl groups were blocked with iodo[14C]acetamide. 80% of isotope label incorporated was present in a single size of subunits with a molecular weight ( M r ) of 51 000 as determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate acrylamide gel electrophoresis. The pI of denatured subunits was about 3.6 to 4.4. 14C-labelled peptides of tryptically digested neuraminidase had predominantly acidic isoelectric points. Results are consistent that the pI of native neuraminidase is about 1.5–2 pH units higher than the pI of its structural subunits, suggesting that side chain carboxyl groups are conformationally masked in the native enzyme, and that isoelectric heterogeneity of neuraminidase may result from conformation-dependent variations in the acid-base dissociation of these groups.
Diffraction gratings and binary temporal holograms as optical delay line diffractive arrays

Abstract We present an unconventional explanation of the working principles behind diffraction gratings. By viewing gratings as delay line diffractive arrays, the intensity profiles generated by their outputs can be explained within the context of sampled periodogram estimates. Furthermore, this approach lends itself naturally to the possibility of using spatially modulated grating structures (binary temporal holograms) for arbitrary, phase-coherent temporal filtering of optical signals. We propose such structures in this paper.
The genomic map position of the adenovirus type 2 glycoprotein.

Abstract Sera from hamsters bearing Ad2 + ND-4 transformed hamster kidney cell initiated tumors contain antibody to the Ad2, 18,500 MW, or Ad5, 19,000 MW, glycoprotein synthesized at early times during productive infection of human cells. This glycoprotein has been identified by its ability to bind to concanavalin A-Sepharose and be eluted by methyl-α- d -mano-sides. The Ad2 delP305 deletion mutant (250bp deletion between 83 and 84 map units) produces a normal 18,500 MW glycoprotein in productivity infected cells. The Ad2 + ND-1 virus (deletion between 80.3 and 85.5 map units) fails to synthesize a detectable 18,500 MW glycoprotein during productive infection. The Ad2 + ND-4 transformed cells (deletion between 81.0 and 85.5 map units) contains the entire 18,500 MW glycoprotein. These deletion-insertion mutants of type 2 adenovirus place the coding region or an essential RNA splice region for the 18,500 MW glycoprotein between 80.3 and 81.0 map units in transcription region E3 on the adenovirus genome. Based upon the previously published species of spliced mRNA in region E3 (L.T. Chow, T.R. Broker, and J.B. Lewis, J. Mol. Biol. 1979, in press) it is concluded that the 80.3–81.0 region of the genome contains a portion of the structural gene for this glycoprotein.
Characteristics of large Ford and Reticon CCDs

Results of charge transfer efficiency and dark current tests for large Reticon and Ford CCDs are given, as well as a description of some experiments to improve the UV quantum efficiency, using a biased flash-gate for thinned CCDs and phosphor overlay for front-illuminated CCDs. The results indicate that large affordable CCDs suitable for astronomical work are now in reach, with excellent charge-handling characteristics, low dark current and readout noise and high quantum efficiency over the 300 nm to 1000 nm wavelength range. With buttable CCDs, whose production is planned for the future, even larger arrays of CCDs will be possible.
Plasma thyroid-stimulating hormone and thyroxine concentrations in breast cancer

Plasma TSH and thyroxine levels were measured in 74 early breast cancer patients and 53 with advanced disease, 77 patients with cancer arising in other organs and 67 healthy women of similar age. The mean plasma TSH levels were higher in the breast cancer cases than the other two groups; the difference was statistically significant only in those with advanced disease. Twelve percent of the early breast cancer and 15% of the advanced breast cancer patients had elevated plasma TSH concentrations, compared with only 1% of the other cancer patients and 3% of the controls. Four breast cancer patients with plasma TSH levels above 85 microIU/ml had subnormal plasma thyroxine levels. Five of 29 (17%) early breast cancer patients had excessive plasma TSH responses to TRH.
Using density invariant graph Laplacian to resolve unobservable parameters for three-dimensional optical bio-imaging

We explore the graph Laplacian eigenmap for the application of three-dimensional (3D) optical bioimaging. By using the density invariant graph Laplacian, each high-dimensional sampling (e.g. an image) could be represented by a low-dimensional description. These descriptions not only preserve key features of raw images but also estimate unobservable parameters for 3D imaging. In this paper, we apply this method for two 3D optical microscopies under following scenarios: (i) 3D optical tomography with projections of unknown orientation. (ii) 3D deconvolution microscopy with a disordered focal stack. To prove the robustness of the method, we use images from real biological systems and experimental measurements. In both cases, our results show that the density invariant graph Laplacian is able to overcome practical issues such as limited number of measurement, unstable environment, misalignment and experimental noise.
Ratiometric 3-D Scanning Cytometer for Quantifying Cell-Surface Biomarker Expression within Intact Tissues

We have developed a two-color ratiometric microscopy technique that not only reduces image contrast due to nonspecific probe accumulation, but also provides a quantitative 3D map of cellular biomarker expression.
Use of Undisturbed Soil Columns under Controlled Conditions To Study the Fate of [14C]Deethylatrazine†

The fate of [14C]deethylatrazine [2-chloro-4-amino-6-(isopropylamino)-s-triazine] was studied under controlled conditions by using undisturbed soil columns in the laboratory. In a 13-week leaching study, the percentage of [14C]deethylatrazine recovered was greatest in the first leaching event (1.3% of the applied 14C), suggesting that preferential flow occurred. The total concentration of deethylatrazine leached from soil columns over the 13-week period was 4.9 μg/L (3.6% of the applied 14C). Unidentified polar degradates made up 3.8% of the applied radioactivity recovered in the leachate, and didealkylatrazine [2-chloro-4,6-(diamino)-s-triazine] and deethylhydroxyatrazine [2-hydroxy-4-amino-6-(isopropylamino)-s-triazine] occurred in trace quantities. Sixty-seven percent of the applied 14C remained in the top 10 cm of soil columns, with 48% as bound residues, 12% as unidentified polar degradates, 5.5% as deethylatrazine, 0.2% as didealkylatrazine, and less than 0.1% as deethylhydroxyatrazine. Keywords: At...
The practice of emergency psychiatry in rural areas.

Practicing emergency psychiatry in a rural area poses many special problems (1-4). The caseload of the local general hospital or community mental health center usually is insufficient to warrant a full-time staff member specifically for psychiatric emergencies. Thus the staff member covering the hospital emergency room or community mental health center may not be experienced in providing psychiatric emergency care. Hotlines may not even have 24-hour coverage. The shortage of trained personnel means that the local town constable, the local police, or the state police are usually the first to respond to psychiatric emergencies. Ambulance personnel are often volunteers, and their training in handling behavioral emergencies may be rudimentary. The lack of professional resources often places a heavier burden on rural families, who may tolerate the schizophrenic or manic patient longer than they ordinarily would or may allow child or spouse abuse to go unacknowledged for a longer period. Despite the problems, some rural communities have developed innovative ways to provide emergency psychiatric care and to improve the quality of the services delivered. This
Photoperiod and steroid-dependent adjustments in hypothalamic gonadotropic hormone-releasing hormone, dopamine, and norepinephrine content in male deer mice.

The purpose of this study was twofold: 1) to examine photoperiod-dependent and steroid-dependent adjustments in hypothalamic GnRH and catecholamine content in male deer mice, Peromyscus maniculatus, and 2) to evaluate whether the commonly used measure of GnRH accumulation serves as an accurate indicator of altered reproductive function in short-day-housed rodents. Deer mice provide a unique animal model in which to evaluate the effect of short day length on the neural substrates directing reproductive function, since individual deer mice respond to short photoperiod with a range of neuroendocrine, endocrine, metabolic, and thermoregulatory adjustments. These adjustments, in part, result in two distinct reproductive phenotypes; reproductively competent "nonresponsive" mice, and gonad-regressed "responsive" mice. Reproductively mature males were maintained on either long (16L:8D) or short (8L: 16D) photoperiod for 8 wk. Thereafter, mice were phenotyped and either remained intact, castrated, or castrated and provided with an s.c. testosterone-filled silicone elastomer capsule releasing long-day or twice long-day levels of testosterone; mice were then housed for an additional 4 wk. At autopsy, plasma levels of LH and testosterone, hypothalamic GnRH content, and hypothalamic dopamine and norepinephrine concentrations were determined. Short photoperiod caused a similar increase in GnRH content in both short-day phenotypes, and this increase was primarily localized to the medial basal hypothalamus (MBH). Castration decreased GnRH content within the MBH of mice housed on both a long and short photoperiod. However, castration also reduced GnRH content within the medial preoptic area (MPOA) only among the short-day phenotypes. Steroid replacement at levels similar to those of intact long-day males restored GnRH content in all brain regions to levels of intact mice. On the other hand, steroid replacement at twice long-day levels restored GnRH content among long-day mice but reduced GnRH content among both short-day reproductive response groups, specifically within the MBH and MPOA. There were no dramatic effects of photoperiod or steroid treatment on catecholamine concentrations. But our results do suggest that the lateral preoptic area (LPOA) and MBH may be important sites of steroid feedback among mice exposed to short photoperiods and that the LPOA and diagonal band of Broca-septal regions may specifically be associated with catecholamine-directed photoperiod-induced adjustments of reproductive responsive mice. Taken together, these data show that GnRH accumulation is not the proximate signal directing seasonal changes in pituitary-gonadal function and cast doubt on the use of this factor as an accurate indicator of altered reproductive function.
ROAuth: recommendation based open authorization

Many major online platforms such as Facebook, Google, and Twitter, provide an open Application Programming Interface which allows third party applications to access user resources. The Open Authorization protocol (OAuth) was introduced as a secure and efficient method for authorizing third party applications without releasing a user's access credentials. However, OAuth implementations don't provide the necessary fine-grained access control, nor any recommendations vis-a-vis which access control decisions are most appropriate. We propose an extension to the OAuth 2.0 authorization that enables the provisioning of fine-grained authorization recommendations to users when granting permissions to third party applications. We propose a mechanism that computes permission ratings based on a multi-criteria recommendation model which utilizes previous user decisions, and application requests to enhance the privacy of the overall site's user population. We implemented our proposed OAuth extension as a browser extension that allows users to easily configure their privacy settings at application installation time, provides recommendations on requested privacy attributes, and collects data regarding user decisions. Experiments on the collected data indicate that the proposed framework efficiently enhanced the user awareness and privacy related to third party application authorizations.
PATS: pattern aware scheduling and power gating for GPGPUs

General purpose computing using graphics processing units (GPGPUs) is an attractive option to achieve power efficient throughput computing. But the power efficiency of GPGPUs can be significantly curtailed in the presence of divergence. This paper evaluates two important facets of this problem. First, we study the branch divergence behavior of various GPGPU workloads. We show that only a few branch divergence patterns are dominant in most workloads. In fact only five branch divergence patterns account for 60% of all the divergent instructions in our workloads. In the second part of this work we exploit this branch divergence pattern bias to propose a new divergence pattern aware warp scheduler, called PATS. PATS prioritizes scheduling warps with the same divergence pattern so as to create long idleness windows for any given execution lane. The long idleness windows are then exploited for efficiently power gating the unused lanes while amortizing the gating overhead. We describe the architectural implementation details of PATS and evaluate the power and performance impact of PATS. Our proposed design significantly improves power gating efficiency of GPGPUs with minimal performance overhead.
Effects of method of presentation and fluid deprivation upon drinking of sucrose and saline solutions by pigeons

In a comparison of different measures of sucrose and saline solution drinking in domestic pigeons, three factors (single stimulus vs two-bottle “choice”, test period length, and fluid deprivational state) explain the discrepancies in the shape of the saline intake functions obtained in previous studies but do not account for the failure of domestic pigeons in this experiment to display a sucrose preference. Pigeons can make quantitative discriminations between sucrose solutions differing in concentration and qualitative discriminations between isosmotic saline and sucrose solutions. The rapidity with which the birds can make these distinctions suggests the importance of orosensory cues although postingestive consequences function in the development of the pigeons' aversion to hypertonic sucrose solutions.
Disposition and metabolism of a new benzothiophene antiestrogen in rats, dogs and monkeys

A new benzothiophene-derived antiestrogen (LY156758) when orally administered was well absorbed in rats and monkeys while approx. 20% was absorbed in dogs. In the rat the compound was subject to first-pass hepatic metabolism which led to low levels of parent drug in the systematic circulation together with a small amount as the glucuronide conjugate. In monkeys the compound occurred primarily as the glucuronide conjugate of parent drug with very little circulating free drug. The systemic bioavailability of free parent drug in plasma was 39% in rats, 17% in dogs and 5% in monkeys. Excretion of the drug in rats and dogs was primarily via the bile. Approx. 1% of the dose was excreted in the urine of rats and dogs after oral dosing. In rats, at least 50% of an oral dose was excreted in bile as the glucuronide conjugate of parent drug.
Models for diabetic wound healing and healing into percutaneous devices

Delayed healing of chronic ulcers in patients with diabetes and infections resulting from percutaneous medical devices (e.g., vascular access catheters) not only plays a major role in morbidity and mortality, but is a major burden to our healthcare system. In this paper, we review models to study diabetic wound healing and the wound-healing response associated with implanted percutaneous implants.
Effect of oxytocin on craving and stress response in marijuana-dependent individuals: a pilot study

Stress has been shown to be a significant factor in the maintenance of marijuana use. Oxytocin is a hypothalamic neuropeptide that has been shown to moderate behavioral responding to stress as well as play a role in the neuroadaptations that occur as a consequence of long-term drug use. The current study evaluated the impact of oxytocin pretreatment on craving, stress, and anxiety responses following a psychosocial stress task in marijuana-dependent individuals. In a laboratory setting, baseline measurements of craving (assessed using the Marijuana Craving Questionnaire; MCQ), salivary cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), stress, and anxiety were collected in 16 participants (age 19–40) meeting DSM-IV criteria for marijuana dependence. Participants were then administered either oxytocin 40 IU (n = 8) or placebo (n = 8) nasal spray prior to completion of the Trier Social Stress Task (TSST). Measurements were repeated pre-TSST, immediately post-TSST, and 5-, 35-, and 60-min post-TSST. Oxytocin reduced both MCQ total score and DHEA levels from before to after the TSST. It also decreased anxiety, but not subjective stress ratings. Although preliminary, these results suggest that oxytocin may play a role in the amelioration of stress-induced reactivity and craving in marijuana-dependent individuals.
Developmental restrictions on hormone modulated gene transcription. I. Effects of auxin on template capacity and chromatin-bound RNA polymerase☆

Abstract The auxin induced growth response of the developing soybean hypocotyl has been employed as a model system to investigate the transcriptional mechanisms which may in part determine this tissue's hormonal responsiveness during early differentiation. Thus, the molecular components present at the responsive (4 day old) developmental stage, but absent at the unresponsive (8 day) stage, are regarded here as developmental “off-switches” which may commit the older tissue to the synthesis of a limited ensemble of gene products. Such commitments are considered central to the onset of the terminal developmental stages of maturity and senescence. The initial studies have focused on the RNA synthetic capacity of chromatin isolated from control and auxin-induced 4 and 8 day old seedlings. While the young tissue displayed a 160% increase in chromatin bound RNA polymerase activity in vitro , the older plant showed only an 18% increase in this parameter following auxin treatment. Investigations with an exogenous source of RNA polymerase ( Escherichia coli ) ruled out template inaccessibility to RNA polymerase as a limiting component in 8-day unresponsive chromatin. In addition, new hormone induced transcripts as determined by nearest neighbor analysis of the RNA synthesized in vitro were detected if the reaction was templated by 4-day hormone induced chromatin and its bound RNA polymerases. However, auxin specific transcripts were not observed with 8-day induced chromatin unless the reaction was supplemented with an exogenous RNA polymerase. The findings reported herein suggest that limitations on hormone controlled gene transcription may in part be determined at the RNA polymerase level, and suggest a developmentally programmed change in the specificity of the endogenous RNA polymerase enzymes.
Electronic Supply Chain Partnerships: Reconsidering Relationship Attributes in Customer-Supplier Dyads

This study is focused on discovering important trading partner selection criteria that are relevant in electronic data interchange EDI-enabled relationships. Increasing implementation of integrated supply chain management SCM and collaborative commerce initiatives call for the cultivation and maintenance of long-term strategic partnerships such as those engendered by EDI. There is a body of evidence showing that hub firms i.e., firms that initiate technology-enabled partnership networks are, in fact, getting more selective about their trading partners. However, there is a need to understand specific trading partner attributes that are more likely to ensure successful long-term relationships. Using the survey technique, this study elicited respondents from customer and supplier firms engaged in EDI applications; the final respondent sample ended up with a pool of firms primarily in the manufacturing sector. Factor analysis uncovered six trading partner selection factors which both customer and supplier firms thought were critical in selecting partners: strategic commitment of top management; readiness for high-level EDI; joint partnering; trading partner flexibility; communications; and EDI infrastructure.
Decomposing Rd into finitely many semigroups

Abstract We determine the precise structure of those (additive) semigroups in R d which belong to at least one partition of R d into finitely many disjoint Borel measurable semigroups. We also find the structure of the convex sets in R d which belong to some partition of R d into finitely many disjoint convex sets.
Abnormal human haemoglobins VII. The comparison of normal human haemoglobin and haemoglobin DChicago

Abstract It has been shown that a tryptic peptide from haemoglobin D Chicago carries a chemical difference when compared to the corresponding peptide in normal haemoglobin A. The altered peptide, called number 5, occurs in the β-chain of the molecule.
A new very high voltage semiconductor switch

A new family of semiconductor switches using double injection techniques and compensated deep impurities is described. They have the potential to raise switching voltages a factor of ten higher (up to 100 kV) than p-n junction devices while exhibiting extremely low (or zero) forward voltage. Several potential power switching applications are indicated.
A theoretical derivation of the Condensed History Algorithm

Abstract Although the Condensed History Algorithm is a successful and widely-used Monte Carlo method for solving electron transport problems, it has been derived only by an ad-hoc process based on physical reasoning. In this paper we show that the Condensed History Algorithm can be justified as a Monte Carlo simulation of an operator-split procedure in which the streaming, angular scattering, and slowing-down operators are separated within each time step. Different versions of the operator-split procedure lead to ( O ( Δs ) and O ( Δs 2 ) versions of the method, where Δs is the path-length step. Our derivation also indicates that higher-order versions of the Condensed History Algorithm may be developed.
On the experimental induction of panic

Biological challenge experiments constitute “closed systems” that enable causal inferences about the generative mechanisms of panic that are unattainable in the “open system” of the natural environment. Experimental research promises to yield a comprehensive theory of panic that comprises explanations at three levels of analysis: task description (i.e., what “purpose” does the panic system serve?), computational (i.e., how is information about bodily sensations processed?), and implementational (i.e., how are the information-processing functions instantiated in the brain?). The purpose of this article is to provide an analysis of conceptual issues in challenge research with special emphasis on testing cognitive hypotheses.
Transformative Power of e-Business Over Consumer Brands

Abstract Should we consider e-Business a threat or an opportunity for consumer brands? Responses differ between mass and selective brands, between services and products. Customer involvement and trust are key moderators. But other new, and sometimes scheming, paradigms appear among consumer online and offline behaviors. Multiplication of loyalties and increased mobility drive new buying criteria, possibly diluting the role of brand. Obviously, consequences on branding policy are important. The stake is high. A strategic analysis of new business models and resulting market behaviors is essential. A first set of reflection tracks, ideas and tentative positions are advanced.
The ratio of free to membrane-bound chloroplast ribosomes.

Abstract In isolated chloroplasts of pea and spinach, some ribosomes remain associated with green thylakoid membrane during repeated washings in hypotonic media. Attempts were made to estimate the proportion of the total chloroplast ribosomes apparently bound to membranes. Chloroplasts were prepared in which the majority retained stroma material as indicated by Class I morphology in phase-contrast microscopy, and by the failure to photoreduce ferricyanide anions until subjected to hypotonic disruption. Nevertheless judging by the distribution of the ribulose diphosphate carboxylase (Fraction I) protein in the homogenate, major amounts of stroma material have been lost depending on the care used in isolation. The ratio of free to bound ribosomes in these chloroplasts ranged between 1 and 2.5 to 1. Pea leaf chloroplasts were also isolated by non-aqueous prodecures. These contained the same amount of bound ribosomes as those prepared in aqueous media, but up to 4 times as many free 70-S chloroplast ribosomes. Electrophoresis of the rRNA from these preparations from pea leaves showed no contamination by 80-S ribosomes, and both rRNA species appeared to be stable during further extraction procedures. With non-aqueous isolated chloroplasts, the ratio of free to bound ribosomes was 4.5 to 1 for peas. These values agreed with those calculated from results with aqueous chloroplasts, based on the proportion of total ribulosediphosphate carboxylase lost.
Reliability Analysis Based on Transverse Distribution of Random Loading

The traditional loading-strength interference model is used to calculate the reliability of components and system when random loading act once. In fact, components always work under repeated random loading, so it is important to derive a reliability model considering the frequency of loading. The two-dimensional distribution of random loading is proposed in this paper. In engineering practice, only a few samples of time-loading process can be obtained because of all kinds of limitation, so the reliability model based on transverse distribution of random loading. In addition, when it is difficult to know the exact distribution of random loading and strength, a discrete reliablity model is developed through the method of universal generating function. Finally, the reliability of system is analyzed considering common cause failure.
Cross Sections of Gamma-Proton Reactions

Using the University of Pennsylvania betatron, the energy dependences of the $\ensuremath{\gamma}\ensuremath{-}p$ cross sections of C, Al, Co, Ni, and Cb have been measured. The cross-section curves exhibit the resonance character found in $\ensuremath{\gamma}\ensuremath{-}n$ reactions. The significant parameters of each of the curves are tabulated. From the data of this paper and the known $\ensuremath{\gamma}\ensuremath{-}n$ cross-section data, the sum of neutron and proton integrated cross sections is evaluated for carbon and nickel.
Splinting and local steroid injection for the treatment of ulnar neuropathy at the elbow: Clinical and electrophysiological evaluation

Abstract Objective: To compare the effects of splinting alone in the treatment of ulnar nerve lesion at the elbow with the effects of applying a local steroid injection in addition to splinting. Design: Twelve nerves of 10 patients were randomly assigned into two groups: 5 nerves in Group A were treated with elbow splinting only; 7 nerves in Group B were treated with local steroid injection in addition to splinting. Therapeutic effects were assessed 1 and 6 months after treatment. Setting: Patients were selected from an outpatient clinic of a VA Medical Center. Patients: Ten patients (12 nerves) with ulnar neuropathy at the elbow confirmed by electrodiagnostic tests. Interventions: Elbow splint was given to patients of both Groups A and B. A single dose of 40mg triamcinolone plus 1 mL of 1% lidocaine was injected around the ulnar nerve at the elbow of Group A patients. Main Outcome Measures: Clinical evaluation of symptoms and signs, and ulnar motor and sensory nerve conduction studies were performed before, 1 month after, and 6 months after treatment. Results: There was significant improvement in symptoms in both groups at 1 and 6 months after treatment. Ulnar motor nerve conduction velocity across the elbow improved at 1 month in Group A only, but showed improvement at 6 months in both groups. There was no significant change in the other parameters either at 1 or 6 months in both groups. In comparing the differences between Groups A and B regarding the changes at 1 or 6 months after treatment, there was no significant difference between the two groups in all parameters. Conclusions: Splint application alone is adequate to improve the symptoms and ulnar nerve conduction across the elbow. The addition of a steroid injection did not provide further benefit in the treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome.