cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Neuromodulation of cerebral blood flow by spinal cord electrical stimulation : the role of the Italian school and state of art

Abstract Hosobuchi first studied the effect of spinal cord stimulation (SCS) on cerebral blood flow (CBF) in human beings along with the demonstration that SCS can improve peripheral blood flow. Following these clinical and experimental observations Hosobuchi first used cervical SCS for the treatment of cerebral ischemia in man. Further experimental reports suggested so far that SCS 1) drastically prevents cerebral infarction progression along with a reduction in infarct volume in cats; 2) improves clinical symptoms of patients in persistent vegetative states; 3) suppress headache attacks in migraneous patients; 4) significantly reduces ischemic brain oedema in rats; 5) increase locoregional blood flow in high grade brain tumors. The authors found that SCS can produce either an increase of CBF or a reduction or no effect. In patients studied with both SPECT technique and transcranial Doppler (TCD) the sign of the induced variations, when present in both, as the same. Cervical stimulation produces more frequently an increase in CBF (61% of cervical stimulations). The authors' experimental studies confirm that SCS 1) interacts with CO2 with the mechanism of regulation of CBF in a competitive way and produce a reversible functional sympathectomy; 2) produces similar flowmetric changes in the brain as well as in the eyes; 3) can improve both clinical and haemodynamic ischemic stroke in humans; 4) prevents hemodynamic deterioration in the experimental combined ischemic and traumatic brain injury; 5) prevents experimental early vasospasm.
Rapid Measurements of Solar Wind Ions with the Triana PlasMag Faraday Cup

The Triana PlasMag Faraday Cup (FC) will be able to determine speed, flow angles, temperature, and density of the main solar wind ion species with a time resolution of better than one second. Thus, the Triana PlasMag FC will enable resolution of spatial structures as small as a few hundred kilometers as the structures convect past the spacecraft. Under typical solar wind conditions, that size is comparable to a few proton gyroradii.
A Review of: “The Ministry of Children's Education”

A systematic collection of essays by nine Lutheran Christian educators and seminary professors, The Ministry of Children's Education is organized as a workable textbook for a children's ministries ...
Acoustic scene analysis using estimated impulse responses

Pre-processing for hearing aids, such as adaptive beamforming, is sensitive to characteristics of the acoustic environment, in particular, reverberation. We conjecture that knowledge of the acoustic environment can aid selection of an optimal signal processing strategy. In this paper we present a method for estimation of direct-to-reverberant energy ratio from partial room responses to an impulsive sound at one receiver location, and of source distance, average absorption, reverberation time, and room volume as intermediate results.
Serum regulates Na+/H+ exchange in Caco-2 cells by a mechanism which is dependent on F-actin.

Abstract Regulation of Na+/H+ exchange by fetal bovine serum was studied in Caco-2 cells, an established cell line derived from a human colon carcinoma. Cells were grown as polarized monolayers on collagen-coated filters and intracellular pH measured fluorometrically with 2',7'-bis(2-carboxymethyl)-5,6-carboxyfluorescein. Na+/H+ exchange was reduced 64% when cells were deprived of serum for 4 h. In contrast to other cell types, readdition of serum for 10 min did not activate Na+/H+ exchange; however, readdition of serum for 4 h restored Na+/H+ exchange to control values. This long-term effect of serum on Na+/H+ exchange activity could not be explained by changes in intracellular buffering capacity or intracellular [Na+]. 4-h serum deprivation reduced the K(t) of the exchanger for external Na+ from 21 to 6 mM, and reduced the V(max) by 57%, but did not alter the IC50 for amiloride in the presence of 140 mM Na+. Inhibition of protein synthesis with cycloheximide (5 microM) did not alter the effect of serum removal or readdition on Na+/H+ exchange. Low temperature (13 degrees C) completely prevented the inhibition of Na+/H+ exchange caused by the removal of serum. In addition, once Na+/H+ exchange was inhibited by serum removal at 37 degrees C, maintaining cells at 13 degrees C also blocked the recovery of Na+/H+ exchange caused by serum readdition. Conversely, cytochalasin D (0.1-20 microM) blocked the reduction of Na+/H+ exchange which occurred due to 4-h serum deprivation, but did not block the restoration of Na+/H+ exchange when the cells were re-exposed to serum for a further 4 h. Colchicine (20 microM) did not alter the effect of serum removal or readdition. These data suggest that serum regulates Na+/H+ exchange activity by a posttranslational mechanism which is dependent on F-actin.
Experiences with microcomputer applications in agricultural economics

Abstract Microcomputers are finding application in a variety of forms in Colleges of Agriculture instruction programs. This paper reports on the experiences of faculty in developing and teaching an undergraduate computer applications course in Agricultural Economics. Student's perceptions of the usefulness of computer applications for selected career categories are reported as well. This includes their observation concerning the use of several commercial software packages.
Performance comparison of integrated continuous-time integrators containing matched MOS transistors

The paper compares integrated continuous-time integrators with a matched pair of MOS transistors. The same method of analysis is applied to each circuit under consideration, and its allows some unknown properties of them to be elucidated. Useful universal analytical relations to analyse these integrators are presented.
Double and Triple Bonds to f-Elements: Structure and Chemistry of Actinide Complexes of Multielectron Pair Donor Ligands

F-element-ligand multiple bonds are not well studied. In the course of our studies of phosphoylide-early actinide chemistry we obtained Cp3U=CHFR3. Based on very good x-ray data, the first neutron diffraction structure of an organo-uranium complex, and theoretical results, we have assigned multiple bond character to the uranium-carbon bond in this molecule. Besides being the first reasonably well characterized f-element-carbon multiple bond, Cp3U=CHPR3 is one of the first members of a class of compounds in which an electron rich, dicarbanion donor is stabilized by an electron withdrawing substituent.
Role of peroxidase in the development of water-impermeable seed coats in Sida spinosa L

The seed coats of S. spinosa (prickly sida, Malvaceae) become impermeable to water during seed development on the mother plant. After the seeds have dehydrated during the final maturation stages, piercing of seed coats is necessary to induce imbibition of water and germination. Onset of impermeability occurs during seed coat browning, well in advance of seed dehydration. I. Marbach and A.M. Mayer (1975, Plant Physiol. 56, 93-96) implicated polyphenol oxidase (PO; EC 1.10.3.1) as catechol oxidase in the formation of insoluble polymers during development of coat impermeability in a wild strain of pea (Pisum elatius) seeds. We found, however, that peroxidase (EC 1.11.1.7), not PO, is instrumental in the development of water-impermeable seed coats in prickly sida. We isolated coats and embryos from seeds harvested at several stages of development. Highest peroxidase activity of coat extracts correlated well with the developmental stages of maximum conversion of soluble phenolics to insoluble lignin polymers. Although seed extracts oxidized dihydroxyphenylalanine, this activity was eliminated by catalase, indicating that the oxidation of phenolics in the coat is catalyzed by peroxidase rather than PO. Histochemical localization of peroxidase was strongest in the palisade layer; both the level and time of appearance of activity was proportional to the spectrophotometric assays of seed-coat extracts. The presence of peroxidase and the absence of PO in the seed coat were also confirmed with immunocytochemistry. Our results support the view that peroxidase is involved in the polymerization of soluble phenolics to insoluble lignin polymers during development of prickly sida seed coats, causing the formation of a water-impermeable barrier prior to seed dehydration. As dehydration proceeds, the chalazal area finally becomes impermeable resulting in the hard mature seeds of prickly sida.
The Descent of Man, human nature and the nature/culture divide:

How does human nature, especially as typically construed within an imposed nature/ culture divide, fit into Darwin’s keen and detailed descriptions of animate life? My answer will point out omissions on each side of the nature/culture divide, a divide academically evident in the division between ‘the humanities’ on the one side and ‘the sciences’ on the other. It will proceed to concentrate attention pre-eminently on an incredible lacuna in today’s scientific research, and in research generally over the 138 years since The Descent of Man and Selection in Relation to Sex was published, namely, on the lack of recognition of, and in turn the lack of penetrating and self-enlightening research on, ‘the law of battle’ as a real human phenomenon. As described by Darwin, ‘the law of battle’ is a biological matrix, natural to humans as to other animals, though tempered by ‘civilization’. As I will show, variously aided and abetted, the matrix has not only been reduced to a cellular phenomenon, i.e. sperm competiti...
On the Limited Budget Problem

We consider the problem of planning a mix of products with a limited budget constraint. This problem is an extension of the well known product mix problem. The problem is easily formulated as a linear programming problem. In this paper we find the optimal solution by an explicit formula without applying any linear programming solution method. Therefore, very large problems can be easily solved. The problem is illustrated by an example. It can be used to demonstrate the usefulness of the dual problem in linear programming and the utility of using problem structure insight as a means to provide a more meaningful tool for management decision making. An Excel spreadsheet is constructed for illustrating the procedure in class.
Bioanalytical Analysis of Bis(monoacylglycero)phosphate (BMP) Model Lipid Membranes

Bis(monoacylglycero)phosphate (BMP) is an unusually shaped, negatively charged phospholipid found in elevated concentrations in the late endosomes. The unusual structure and stereochemistry of BMP are thought to play important roles in the endosome, including structural integrity, endosome maturation, and lipid/protein sorting and trafficking. We have utilized dynamic light scattering, fluorescence spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy to characterize the morphology and size of BMP hydrated dispersions and extruded vesicles. We find that the morphology of hydrated BMP dispersions varies with pH, forming highly structured, clustered dispersions of 500 nm in size at neutral pH 7.4. However, at acidic pH 4.5, spontaneous hydrolysis of BMP occurs, altering the vesicle morphology to spherically shaped dispersions. BMP vesicles are also significantly smaller in diameter than palmitoyloleoylglycerophosphocholine (POPC) vesicles. In a stability assay using dynamic light scattering measurements to compare and monitor 30 nm extruded vesicles of BMP, POPC, and POPG over a 5 week period, we find that BMP vesicles do not fuse to form larger structures. BMP also forms lamellar vesicles evidenced by the fluorescence leakage assay studies. These results shed light on the possibility that the biosynthesis of BMP and the increasing acidity during the maturation process of late endosomes play an important role in the formation of intraendosomal vesicular bodies.
THE EFFECT OF INSULIN ON SERUM LIPOPROTEINS OF DIABETIC PATIENTS

Serial scrum lipoprotein and cholesterol determinations were performed in 17 female diabetic patients institutionalized because of mental illness. Each patient was studied during prolonged periods of low insulin dosage (hyperglycemic but clinically non-acidotic decontrol phase) and high insulin dosage (control phase). Statistical analysis of the data, based on the assay of more than 300 blood samples over 500 patient-weeks of study, showed highly significant increases in , Atherogenic Index and serum cholesterol values in association with the decontrol phase. Mean increases in serum lipoprotein and total cholesterol concentrations associated with the decontrol phase were markedly greater in the younger group of patients, although the mean changes in blood sugar oncentration were about the same in the 2 age groups (mean ages, 48 and 71 years). The practical significance of the findings is discussed with respect to the biochemical support they lend to the desirability of rigid rather than loose insulin cont...
The computational eye

Specialized cells in the eye work in parallel for unequaled image processing and computation. Millionfold swings in light intensity from the outside world, transformed to electrical signals, are processed in space and time for contrast and edge enhancement, as well as to detect motion.
Liquid chromatography mass spectrometry of antisense oligonucleotides

Abstract The development of rapid, simple and accurate methods for characterizing and insuring the integrity of oligonucleotides is important for the development of therapeutic and diagnostic products. This study was performed to determine the utility of high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry detection (LCMS) as an alternative or addition to the current techniques of HPLC, capillary electrophoresis and gel electrophoresis.
An aggregative growth process for controlling size, shape and composition of metal, alloy and core-shell nanoparticles toward desired bioapplications

Metal nanoparticles, especially gold and its alloy, core–shell, or nanocomposites function as theranostic probes or vehicles with amplified optical, spectroscopic, electrical and magnetic signals, or unique bio-functional, bio-compatible properties upon the desired bio-conjugation. Exploration of these functions is inherently linked to the ability to control the size, shape, composition, and surface properties, which depends to a large degree on the understanding of the controllability of these nanostructure parameters in the synthesis and processing. Aggregative growth constitutes an important pathway for the control of size, shape and composition in synthesis and processing of nanoparticles. This article highlights recent progress in the exploration of aggregative growth for the control of size, shape, and composition of metal nanoparticles. Examples such as thermally-activated aggregative growth of gold, copper, copper sulfide, alloy nanoparticles, and core–shell nanoparticles with magnetic cores and gold shells are discussed. The focus is to highlight the significance of understanding the mechanistic aspects in establishing the controllability over size, shape, and composition for further harnessing the unique nanoscale properties toward desired bioapplications.
A case for using grid architecture for state public health informatics: the Utah perspective

This paper presents the rationale for designing and implementing the next-generation of public health information systems using grid computing concepts and tools. Our attempt is to evaluate all grid types including data grids for sharing information and computational grids for accessing computational resources on demand. Public health is a broad domain that requires coordinated uses of disparate and heterogeneous information systems. System interoperability in public health is limited. The next-generation public health information systems must overcome barriers to integration and interoperability, leverage advances in information technology, address emerging requirements, and meet the needs of all stakeholders. Grid-based architecture provides one potential technical solution that deserves serious consideration. Within this context, we describe three discrete public health information system problems and the process by which the Utah Department of Health (UDOH) and the Department of Biomedical Informatics at the University of Utah in the United States has approached the exploration for eventual deployment of a Utah Public Health Informatics Grid. These three problems are: i) integration of internal and external data sources with analytic tools and computational resources; ii) provide external stakeholders with access to public health data and services; and, iii) access, integrate, and analyze internal data for the timely monitoring of population health status and health services. After one year of experience, we have successfully implemented federated queries across disparate administrative domains, and have identified challenges and potential solutions concerning the selection of candidate analytic grid services, data sharing concerns, security models, and strategies for reducing expertise required at a public health agency to implement a public health grid.
Multifragmentation versus sequential fission: Observable differences?

Abstract To elucidate the observable distinctions between different reaction mechanisms for multifragment production in nuclear collisions at intermediate energies, we contrast two opposite extremes: sequential binary fission and simultaneous multifragment breakup ( true multifragmentation). For identical multifragment channels produced by these two idealized mechanisms, we examine the kinetic-energy spectra and the correlated velocity distributions of the fragments and discuss the possibility of identifying informative multifragment observables.
Polarons in quasi-one-dimensional systems

We discuss the nature of polaron excitations in two models of current interest in the study of quasi-one-dimensional materials: the coupled electron-phonon and molecular-crystal models. Using for definiteness parameters appropriate to trans-${(\mathrm{CH})}_{x}$, we show that, although qualitatively very similar, the two polarons differ quantitatively in many respects. We then consider the very weakly bound polaron limit and show that here the two polarons become identical. We indicate that this limit, although not applicable to trans-${(\mathrm{CH})}_{x}$, may be relevant to other interesting quasi-one-dimensional materials.
Establishing relationships for designing rural information systems

Designing for the developing world presents unique challenges. Establishing rapport with local partners is important to overcome contextual unfamiliarity and ensure the relevance of proposed solutions. In this paper, we discuss our experiences designing a CAM-based mobile data capture system for Asobagri, a rural coffee cooperative in Barillas, Guatemala. CAM is a camera-based mobile application framework designed based on fieldwork with rural microfinance groups in India. Our local partners in India are now using the CAM framework in a real application. We list some practices that have helped us establish and sustain both these design relationships.
A short history of the initial discovery of the Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome.

Deletion of the short arm of chromosome 4 (4p-) was first described in 1961 [Hirschhorn and Cooper, 1961], and the second case of 4p- was published in 1965 [Hirschhorn et al., 1965]. This short history describes the original case and the sequence of events leading to the publications. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Lessons from literature for the historian of science (and vice versa): reflections on "form"

This essay surveys recent discussion of the problem of form in literary studies, identifies several ways in which the notion of form might be expanded, and suggests ways in which such an expanded category of form might be useful to historians of science and literary critics alike.
Probing the effects of cholesterol on pyrene-functionalized interfacial adlayers.

We have synthesized a novel set of pyrene-functionalized, covalently bound surface adlayers with and without cholesterol derivatives coadded to the adlayer. We have deposited these adlayers on quartz, oxidized silicon wafers, and indium-doped tin oxide coated substrates. The addition of tethered cholesterol to the adlayer creates a hydrophobic, likely disordered, microenvironment in which the surface-bound pyrene resides. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements demonstrate the covalent attachment of both cholesterol and pyrene in our adlayers. The presence of the cholesterol moieties gives rise to a reduction in film thickness, as measured ellipsometrically, and contact angle data indicate significant surface heterogeneity. Steady-state fluorescence data show that the presence of cholesterol moieties reduces the extent of pyrene excimer formation and provides a less polar environment for the chromophore. Fluorescence lifetime measurements on surface-bound pyrene were biexponential, consistent with m...
CREB-binding Protein Activates Transcription through Multiple Domains

CREB-binding protein (CBP) functions as a coactivator molecule for a number of transcription factors including CREB, c-Fos, c-Jun, c-Myb, and several nuclear receptors. Although binding sites for these factors within CBP have been identified, the regions of CBP responsible for transcriptional activation are unknown. In this report, we show that the N-terminal half of CBP is sufficient for activation of CREB-mediated transcription and that this region contains a strong transcriptional activation domain (TAD). Both deletion of this TAD or sequestering of factors that the TAD binds using a squelching assay were found to greatly decrease the ability of CBP to activate CREB-mediated transcription. In vivo studies by others have shown that p300/CBP associates with TBP; using an in vitro approach, we show the N-terminal TAD binds TBP. We also examined the ability of the C terminus of CBP to activate transcription using GAL-CBP chimeras. With this approach, we identified two C-terminal TADs located adjacent to the c-Fos binding site. In previous studies, cAMP-dependent protein kinase A (PKA) increased the transcriptional activity of a GAL full-length CBP chimera in F9 cells, and of the C terminus in PC-12 cells. Here, we demonstrate that PKA also increased the ability of the N-terminal TADs of CBP to activate transcription in PC-12 but not F9 or COS-7 cells, suggesting that this PKA-responsiveness is cell type-specific.
General notions of statistical depth function

Statistical depth functions are being formulated ad hoc with increasing popularity in nonparametric inference for multivariate data. Here we introduce several general structures for depth functions, classify many existing examples as special cases, and establish results on the possession, or lack thereof, of four key properties desirable for depth functions in general. Roughly speaking, these properties may be described as: affine invariance, maximality at center, monotonicity relative to deepest point, and vanishing at infinity. This provides a more systematic basis for selection of a depth function. In particular, from these and other considerations it is found that the halfspace depth behaves very well overall in comparison with various competitors.
Timed intercourse after intrauterine insemination for treatment of infertility

Abstract Objective: To compare the pregnancy rates, between intrauterine insemination (IUI) followed by timed intercourse and IUI only for treatment of the infertile couples. Study design: A prospective study of two different protocols of intrauterine insemination in two hundred and one infertile couples with a normal spermiogram was carried out. Of these, 101 couples were treated with IUI alone and 100 couples had both IUI and timed intercourse within a 12-18 h period. The pregnancy rates were compared between groups. Results: The characteristics of the two groups were similar in terms of the mean age, as well as the duration and causes of infertility. The cycle characteristics following follicular stimulation were also similar between two groups. The pregnancy rate per cycle increased with increasing numbers of total motile sperm per insemination in the IUI alone group (P=0.045). Timed intercourse increased pregnancy rate in patients with lower motile sperm number (
Bloodless cardiac surgery and the pediatric patient: a case study

Peri-operative transfusion of blood or blood products is associated with increased morbidity and mortality after cardiac surgery. However, excessive hemodilution as a result of avoiding the use of homologous blood products can also lead to decreased oxygen delivery to vital end organs and dilutional coagulopathy. This is particularly challenging in pediatric cardiac surgery where there is a large discrepancy between the patient circulating blood volume and the priming volume of the cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) circuit. Strategies to avoid the use of homologous blood products during pediatric cardiac surgery must also incorporate miniaturization of the CPB circuit and other bypass techniques in order to avoid problems with excessive hemodilution. We report a 5.9 kg male infant who underwent successful surgical correction of a ventricular septal defect without the use of homologous blood transfusion. Our strategies included the pre-operative administration of erythropoietin and iron to increase red blood cell mass, acute normovolemic hemodilution (ANH) before the institution of CPB, retrograde autologous priming (RAP), cell salvage, continuous ultrafiltration, vacuum-assisted venous drainage to minimize the circuit size and priming volume, and the use of near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) to monitor the patient during the entire procedure. The utilization of these strategies is now standard for our entire pediatric cardiac surgical population.
Assessment of Science Learning: Living in Interesting Times.

Beginning with a reference to living in a time of both uncertainty and opportunity, this article presents a discussion of key areas where shared understanding is needed if we are to successfully realize the design and use of high quality, valid assessments of science. The key areas discussed are: (1) assessment purpose and use, (2) the nature of assessment and the importance of research on learning, (3) assessment design processes, (4) validity arguments, (5) measurement and statistical inference, (6) affordances of technology, and (7) systems of assessment. After introducing each vital area, the article discusses how each of the five articles in the special issue is connected to the areas. Concluding comments emphasize the reminder that despite the large amount of work to be done, we are well positioned to realize the high quality, valid science education assessments that we need for K-16 science education. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 49: 831–841, 2012
Agent-based modeling for trading wind power with uncertainty in the day-ahead wholesale electricity markets of single-sided auctions

Abstract This paper, for the first time, adopts agent-based simulation approach to investigate the bidding optimization of a wind generation company in the deregulated day-ahead electricity wholesale markets, by considering the effect of short-term forecasting accuracy of wind power generation. Two different wind penetration levels (12% and 24%) are investigated and compared. Based on MATPOWER 4.0 software package and the 9-bus 3-generator power system defined by Western System Coordinating Council, the agent-based models are built and run under the uniform price auction rule and locational marginal pricing mechanism. Each generation company could learn from its past experience and improves its day-ahead strategic offers by using Variant Roth–Erev reinforcement learning algorithm. The results clearly demonstrate that improving wind forecasting accuracy helps increase the net earnings of the wind generation company. Also, the wind generation company can further increase its net earnings with the adoption of learning algorithm. Besides, it is verified that increasing wind penetration level within the investigation range can help reduce the market clearing price. Furthermore, it is also demonstrated that agent-based simulation is a viable modeling tool which can provide realistic insights for the complex interactions among different market participants and various market factors.
Corneal wavefront errors 24 months after deep lamellar endothelial keratoplasty and penetrating keratoplasty.

Purpose To evaluate high-order aberrations (HOA) induced by the anterior corneal surface after deep lamellar endothelial keratoplasty (DLEK) and penetrating keratoplasty (PK). Design Prospective, randomized clinical trial. Methods Twenty-eight eyes of 25 patients with corneal edema resulting from Fuchs dystrophy underwent DLEK with a 9- to 10-mm incision (n = 13) or PK with double-running sutures (n = 15) at the Cornea Service, Mayo Clinic Department of Ophthalmology, Rochester, Minnesota. The main outcome measures were HOA from the anterior corneal surface calculated from corneal topography and decomposed into Zernike polynomials to the sixth order, high- and low-contrast visual acuity (VA), and contrast sensitivity. Variables after surgery were compared with those before surgery and between treatments by using generalized estimating equation models with Bonferroni adjustment. Results Total HOA through 24 months (0.48 ± 0.15 μm) after DLEK was similar to total aberration before surgery (0.44 ± 0.23 μm; P = .10). After PK, total HOA remained elevated through 24 months (1.68 ± 0.58 μm) compared with that before surgery (0.49 ± 0.27 μm; P P P = .001). High- and low-contrast VA and contrast sensitivity at 24 months after PK did not correlate with any HOA. Conclusions HOAs from the anterior corneal surface were higher after PK compared with after DLEK but did not correlate with visual function after PK.
Age estimate for the 1987 megaplume on the southern Juan de Fuca Ridge using excess radon and manganese partitioning

Abstract In September 1987 we collected samples for the determination of 222 Rn, 226 Ra, and dissolved and particulate manganese in “Megaplume 2” above the Juan de Fuca Ridge spreading center. The results of these analyses permit us to estimate the apparent age of the megaplume by two independent methods. The age estimate based on excess 222 Rn is 20±9 days. Based on the partitioning of manganese between the dissolved and particulate phases the age is estimated to be between 6 and 60 days. Both techniques confirm that Megaplume 2 was a separate hydrothermal event and that it was not Megaplume 1 sampled 1 year after it was first discovered.
Waste Products as Highway Materials in Flexible Pavement System

The purpose of this study is to investigate the use of industrial by-product mixtures as construction materials. Fly ash, which is a by-product of coal combustion, is mixed with fine-grained material, a by-product from an aggregate processing operation. Neither material exhibits satisfactory engineering properties by itself. However, if combined, the resulting material properties are improved and potential applications may be found within pavements, structural fill for embankment construction, or as backfill behind abutments and retaining walls. For this paper, the materials are investigated for use as highway materials within a flexible pavement system. In order to demonstrate the benefit of the material mixture toward improvement of overall pavement performance, predicted pavement lives for structures having subgrades consisting of aggregate waste, fly ash, and a mixture of aggregate waste and fly ash are compared.
Transcriptional activation by mitochondrial transcription factor A involves preferential distortion of promoter DNA

Mitochondrial transcription factor A (mtTFA/TFAM) is a nucleus-encoded, high-mobility-group-box (HMG-box) protein that regulates transcription of the mitochondrial genome by specifically recognizing light-strand and heavy-strand promoters (LSP, HSP1). TFAM also binds mitochondrial DNA in a non-sequence specific (NSS) fashion and facilitates its packaging into nucleoid structures. However, the requirement and contribution of DNA-bending for these two different binding modes has not been addressed in detail, which prompted this comparison of binding and bending properties of TFAM on promoter and non-promoter DNA. Promoter DNA increased the stability of TFAM to a greater degree than non-promoter DNA. However, the thermodynamic properties of DNA binding for TFAM with promoter and non-specific (NS) DNA were similar to each other and to other NSS HMG-box proteins. Fluorescence resonance energy transfer assays showed that TFAM bends promoter DNA to a greater degree than NS DNA. In contrast, TFAM lacking the C-terminal tail distorted both promoter and non-promoter DNA to a significantly reduced degree, corresponding with markedly decreased transcriptional activation capacity at LSP and HSP1 in vitro. Thus, the enhanced bending of promoter DNA imparted by the C-terminal tail is a critical component of the ability of TFAM to activate promoter-specific initiation by the core mitochondrial transcription machinery.
A Meta-Analytic Review of Gender Differences in ADHD

The present study examined gender differences in ADHD through a meta-analysis. Effect size estimates for the primary symptoms and correlates of ADHD were calculated in an attempt to replicate and extend a previous meta-analysis on gender differences in the disorder. Relatively lenient inclusion criteria were used in order to maximize the number of studies included in the effect sizes.The results indicated that in comparison to ADHD boys, ADHD girls had lower ratings on hyperactivity, inattention, impulsivity, and externalizing problems. In addition, ADHD girls had greater intellectual impairments and more internalizing problems than ADHD boys. Overall, the results of the current meta-analysis indicated general agreement with the previous meta-analysis. The clinical implications of these gender differences and future research considerations are discussed.
One-bead, one-compound peptide library sequencing via high-pressure ammonia cleavage coupled to nanomanipulation/nanoelectrospray ionization mass spectrometry.

Biological screening of one-bead, one-compound (OBOC) combinatorial peptide libraries is routinely carried out with the peptide remaining bound to the resin bead during screening. After a hit is identified, the bead is isolated, the peptide is cleaved from the bead, and its sequence is determined. We have developed a new technique for cleavage of peptides from resin beads whereby exposure of a 4-hydroxymethyl benzoic acid (HMBA)-linked peptide to high-pressure ammonia gas led to efficient cleavage in as little as 5 min. Here we also report a new method of extracting peptide from individual library beads for its introduction into a mass spectrometer that uses nanomanipulation combined with nanoelectrospray ionization mass spectrometry (NSI MS). Single beads analyzed by nanomanipulation/NSI MS were found to give identical MS results to those of bulk samples. Detection of 18 unique cleaved peptides 1 to 8 amino acids in length, and sequencing of 14 different peptide sequences 4 to 8 amino acids in length, was demonstrated on a combination of bulk samples and ones from individual beads of an OBOC library. The method was highly reproducible, with 100% of attempts to extract peptide resulting in high-quality MS data. This new collection of techniques allows rapid, reliable, environmentally responsible sequencing of hit beads from combinatorial peptide libraries.
In the Name of Diversity: Education and the Commoditization and Consumption of Race in the United States

In exploring the relationship between cultural capital, symbolic violence and the diversification of the curriculum the notion of commoditization of race in higher education is developed. The term first and foremost emphasizes how students from “disadvantaged” racialized communities remain significantly under-represented at selective universities and colleges. Commoditization of race in higher education is also concerned with the potentially unequal terms of exchange between racialized communities, whose experiences and collective struggles are increasingly embodied in novels, poetry, non-fictional works, ethnographies, academic discourses, and programs of study, and the educational benefits associated with diversity at 4-year institutions accorded predominantly to white student bodies. In doing so, the paper demonstrates that race-based segregation initiated at the neighborhood and public school levels continues to inhibit racialized students from receiving quality higher education opportunities. Based on an analysis of the economic obstacles disproportionately affecting Black communities, the paper concludes by reiterating that unless selective universities and colleges are prepared to significantly enhance quality educational opportunities for students of color, even the most sincere expressions of support for affirmative action, multiculturalism and diversity will likely legitimate, rather than challenge, racial inequality in the foreseeable future.
Symbolic evaluation and the global value graph

This paper is concerned with difficult global flow problems which require the symbolic evaluation of programs. We use, as is common in global flow analysis, a model in which the expressions computed are specified, but the flow of control is indicated only by a directed graph whose nodes are blocks of assignment statements. We show that if such a program model is interpreted in the domain of integer arithmetic then many natural global flow problems are unsolvable. We then develop a direct (non-iterative) method for finding general symbolic values for program expressions. Our method gives results similar to an iterative method due to Kildall and a direct method due to Fong, Kam, and Ullman. By means of a structure called the global value graph which compactly represents both symbolic values and the flow of these values through the program, we are able to obtain results that are as strong as either of these algorithms at a lower time cost, while retaining applicability to all flow graphs.
Atomistic simulations of structure of solvated sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) membranes and their comparisons to nafion: I. Nanophase segregation and hydrophilic domains.

The results of extensive all-atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of water- and methanol-solvated SPEEK (sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone)) are reported. In this Part I of the two-part article, we present results elucidating the key structural features of hydrophilic domains with varying water, methanol content, and temperature. With increasing hydration, the membrane was observed to swell appreciably and transform from a state containing a large number of water clusters containing just few molecules at low water content to very large water clusters encompassing almost all molecules at the highest water contents. In comparison with the results reported for Nafion, SPEEK was observed to be characterized by more isolated and smaller sized water clusters and less pronounced percolation than Nafion at lower water contents, but the percolation characteristics became comparable to Nafion at higher water content. Water confined in SPEEK showed less internal structure than bulk water or water confined in Na...
Currency fluctuations and the French–U.S. trade balance: evidence from 118 industries

The impact of currency depreciations on trade has inspired a large body of research. Recent studies have examined industry-level trade, often using cointegration analysis, finding that a significant fraction of industries respond positively to devaluations. Oftentimes, adjustment lags result in a “J curve” effect, where devaluations hurt the trade balance temporarily. This study examines the specific case of trade between the United States and France, but finds that these flows are less sensitive than has been shown for other country pairs. Only 30 of 118 industries see increased trade balances after a dollar depreciation, and virtually none follow any type of a “J curve.” Certain industry sectors are more sensitive than others, however. Examining the SITC classifications of those 30 industries, we find that many of them are clustered in the SITC 700 (Machinery and Transport Equipment) and 800 (Miscellaneous Manufactured Articles) categories. In particular, clothing and footwear, as well as electrical equipment, are particularly affected.
DEFINING A REGION OF THE HUMAN KERATIN 6A GENE THAT CONFERS INDUCIBLE EXPRESSION IN STRATIFIED EPITHELIA OF TRANSGENIC MICE

Injury to the epidermis and other stratified epithelia triggers a repair response involving the rapid induction of several genes, including keratin 6 (K6). The signaling pathways and mechanisms presiding over this induction in keratinocytes at the wound edge remain to be defined. We reported previously that of the multiple genes encoding K6 isoforms in human, K6a is dominant in skin epithelia (Takahashi, K., Paladini, R., Coulombe, P. A. (1995) J. Biol. Chem. 270, 18581-18592). Using bacterial LacZ as a reporter gene in transgenic mice, we show that the proximal 5.2 kilobases of 5'-upstream sequence from the K6a gene fails to direct sustained expression in any adult tissue, including those where K6 is constitutively expressed (e.g. hair follicle, nail, oral mucosa, tongue, esophagus, forestomach). In contrast, the proximal 960 base pairs of 5'-upstream sequence suffice to mediate an induction of beta-galactosidase expression in a near-correct spatial and temporal fashion after injury to epidermis and other stratified epithelia. Transgene expression also occurs following topical application of phorbol esters, all-trans-retinoic acid, or 2-4-dinitro-1-fluorobenzene, all known to induce K6 expression in skin. Our data show that critical regulatory sequences for this inducibility are located between -960 and -550 bp in the 5'-upstream sequence of K6a and that their activity is influenced by enhancer element(s) located between -2500 and -5200 base pairs. These findings have important implications for the control of gene expression after injury to stratified epithelia.
On the maximum total sample size of a group sequential test about binomial proportions

It is well known that the standard single-stage binomial test is uniformly most powerful to detect an increase or decrease in a binomial proportion. The general perception is that, to achieve a fixed significance level and power, a group sequential test will require a larger maximum total sample size than required by the corresponding standard single-stage test because missing observations are possible under the group sequential test setting. In this article, it is proved that, under mild conditions, there exist group sequential tests which achieve the predesignated significance level and power with maximum total sample size bounded above by the sample size for the corresponding standard single-stage test.
Large granular lymphocytic (LGL) leukemia in rats exposed to intermittent 60 Hz magnetic fields.

An animal model for large granular lymphocytic (LGL) leukemia in male Fischer 344 rats utilized to determine whether magnetic field exposure can be shown to influence the progression of leukemia. We previously reported that exposure to continuous 60 Hz 1 mT magnetic fields did not significantly alter the clinical progression of LGL leukemia in young male rats following inspection of spleen cells from donor leukemic rats. Results presented here extend those studies with the objectives to (1) replicate the previous study of continuous 60-Hz magnetic field exposures but using fewer LGL cells in the inoculum, and (2) determine if intermittent 60-Hz magnetic fields can alter the clinical progression of leukemia.
Scanning tunneling microscopy study of platinum deposited on graphite by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition

Abstract The growth of thin Pt(111) films on highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition has been followed by scanning tunneling microscopy. Depositions were carried out on substrates held at 205°C and contacted with intersecting streams of H 2 and of He saturated with (η 5 −C 5 H 4 CH 3 )Pt(CH 3 ) 3 . The deposition was monitored by the appearance methane in the product stream. Deposition initiated almost immediately, in contrast with earlier studies showing a significant induction period for deposition on glass. The deposits obtained after several minutes at 205°C consisted of Pt clusters with diameters ranging from 8 to 80 A along with some very much larger Pt islands. The deposits were morphologically very rough with rather well defined facet orientation. The step heights of the terraces ranged from 20 to 54 A. Oval shaped disks free of apparent dislocations were also observed. One of the larger crystallites investigated was 2074 × 1482 A 2 and 200 A in height. The deposits were non-uniform throughout the deposition. The initial crystal growth under CVD was by island nucleation, followed by a growth mode that produced a random rough surface after the islands coalesced. At early stages the films are preferentially oriented with (111) crystallites parallel to the HOPG basal plane; further growth, however, leads to a poly-crystalline deposit.
Systematic Assessment of RNA-Seq Quantification Tools Using Simulated Sequence Data

RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) technology has emerged as the preferred method for quantification of gene and isoform expression. Numerous RNA-seq quantification tools have been proposed and developed, bringing us closer to developing expression-based diagnostic tests based on this technology. However, because of the rapidly evolving technologies and algorithms, it is essential to establish a systematic method for evaluating the quality of RNA-seq quantification. We investigate how different RNA-seq experimental designs (i.e., variations in sequencing depth and read length) affect various quantification algorithms (i.e., HTSeq, Cufflinks, and MISO). Using simulated data, we evaluate the quantification tools based on four metrics, namely: (1) total number of usable fragments for quantification, (2) detection of genes and isoforms, (3) correlation, and (4) accuracy of expression quantification with respect to the ground truth. Results show that Cufflinks is able to use the largest number of fragments for quantification, leading to better detection of genes and isoforms. However, HTSeq produces more accurate expression estimates. Moreover, each quantification algorithm is affected differently by varying sequencing depth and read length, suggesting that the selection of quantification algorithms should be application-dependent.
High affinity and low affinity ouabain binding sites in the rat heart.

Ventricular muscle of rat heart has two classes of receptors which are responsible for the positive inotropic effect of ouabain. Low affinity receptors are apparently related to Na+, K+-ATPase. To determine if high affinity receptors are also sarcolemmal Na+, K+-ATPase of muscle cells, their characteristics were examined. Binding of [3H]ouabain to the high affinity binding site required ATP in the presence of Mg2+ and Na+, was stimulated by Na+ in the presence of Mg2+ and ATP, and was inhibited by K+. Digoxin, digitoxin and cassaine all inhibited [3H]ouabain binding to the high affinity site. Cassaine was about an order of magnitude less potent than the glycosides. These results indicate similarities in high affinity ouabain binding sites in ventricular muscle of rat heart and Na+, K+-ATPase obtained from other sources. Destruction od sympathetic nerve terminals with 6-hydrodopamine failed to affect the high affinity ouabain binding sites indicating that high affinity sites do not represent the Na+, K+-ATPase in sympathetic nerve terminals. Labeling of Na+, K+-ATPase from [γ-32P]ATP indicates that high affinity ouabain binding sites account for 25% of the total enzyme molecules present in ventricular muscle of rat heart.