cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
RFLP tagging of QTLs conditioning specific leaf weight and leaf size in soybean

Selection for high specific leaf weight (SLW) in soybean [Glycine max (L) Merr.] may increase apparent photosynthetic rate per unit leaf area (AP), which in turn may improve seed yield. In general, the SLW and leaf size are negatively correlated in soybean. To maximize total photosynthetic performance, and perhaps the seed yield, of a soybean cultivar, it would be necessary to establish a large leaf area rapidly while maintaining a high SLW. The objective of the present study was to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) conditioning SLW and leaf size in soybean. One hundred and twenty F4-derived lines from a ‘Young’×PI416937 population were evaluated using restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) markers. The genetic map consisted of 155 loci on 33 linkage groups (LGs) covering 973 cM of map distance. The phenotypic data were collected from two different environments – a greenhouse at Athens, Ga. and a field site at Windblow, N.C. The SLW and leaf-size measurements were made on leaves from the 8th and 9th node of soybean plants at the V12 stage of development. Combined over environments, six putative independent RFLP markers were associated with SLW, and four of these loci were consistent across environments. Individually, the six markers each explained between 8 and 18% of the phenotypic variation among lines for SLW. The Young alleles contributed to a greater SLW at four of the six independent marker loci, and transgressive segregation occurred among the progeny for SLW. Three putative independent RFLP markers were associated with leaf size, each explaining between 6 to 11% of the phenotypic variation in the trait, and one of these markers was identified in both environments. There was no correlation between SLW and leaf size in this population. Similarly, none of the six QTLs conditioning SLW were linked to any of the three QTLs for leaf size. In this soybean population, it is possible to select for progeny lines with greater SLW than either parent perhaps without affecting the leaf size. It is feasible to pyramid all of the desirable alleles for greater SLW and large leaf size in a single genetic background.
Evaluation of imiquimod for topical treatment of vaccinia virus cutaneous infections in immunosuppressed hairless mice

Imiquimod is an immune response modifier prescribed as a topical medication for a number of viral and neoplastic conditions. We evaluated the antiviral activity of imiquimod against vaccinia virus (WR strain) cutaneous infections in immunosuppressed (with cyclophosphamide) hairless mice when administered after virus exposure. Primary lesions progressed in severity, satellite lesions developed, and infection eventually killed the mice. Once daily topical treatment with 1% imiquimod cream for 3, 4, or 5 days were compared to twice daily topical treatment with 1% cidofovir cream for 7 days. Survival time of mice in all treated groups was significantly prolonged compared to placebo controls. The mean day of death for the placebo group, 3-day imiquimod, 4-day imiquimod, 5-day imiquimod, and cidofovir groups were 15.5, 20.0, 20.5, 19.5, and 20.5 days post-infection, respectively. All treatment groups showed significant reductions in primary lesion size and in the number of satellite lesions. The cidofovir and 4-day imiquimod treatments delayed the appearance of lung virus titers by 3 and 6 days, respectively, although cutaneous lesion and snout virus titers were not as affected by treatment. Benefits in survival and lesion reduction were observed when imiquimod treatment was delayed from 24, 48, and 72 h post-infection. However, increasing the treatment dose of imiquimod from 1% to 5% led to a significant decrease in antiviral efficacy. These results demonstrate the protective effects of topically administered imiquimod against a disseminated vaccinia virus infection in this mouse model.
Local magnetic fields in an anyon superconductor.

As has been noted previously, there should be orbital currents and magnetic fields associated with any inhomogeneities in the carrier density \ensuremath{\rho}(r) in anyon models of high-temperature superconductors. For a simple effective-mass model with two species of semions, one can calculate exactly the zero-temperature value of the coefficient \ensuremath{\gamma}, which determines ratio between the current and \ensuremath{\nabla}\ensuremath{\rho}, for IsmallP values of \ensuremath{\nabla}\ensuremath{\rho}. We consider here various situations where \ensuremath{\nabla}\ensuremath{\rho} is IlargeP. For a circularly symmetric localized perturbation, we find constraints on the induced orbital magnetic moment at T=0 which show that the current cannot vanish, if the net inhomogeneity has a magnitude of one electronic charge. We also show that at temperatures above the superconducting transition, the total current at the boundary of a macroscopic sample is determined if the coefficient \ensuremath{\gamma} is known; i.e., in this case the net current is the same as if the density gradients were small. As an intermediate step in our analyses, we review the formulation of the Hartree or Hartree-Fock approximation for an inhomogeneous anyon system. We also introduce a generalized anyon model, where the fictitious charge that couples to the Chern-Simons gauge field is smeared by a Gaussian of width w, for which the Hartree approximation becomes exact in the limit w\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{\infty}.
Decreased survival in EGFR gene amplified vulvar carcinoma

Objective. We undertook an extensive molecular characterization of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene in vulvar squamous cell carcinomas to investigate EGFR mutation and/or genomic amplification and its association with EGFR protein expression, high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) status and clinical outcome. Methods. A cohort of 51 vulvar cancer patients distributed across all FIGO stages was selected for immunohistochemistry (IHC) and fluorescence in situ hybridization. EGFR expression and gene amplification were correlated with high-risk HPV status, EGFR mutational status and clinical prognostic variables. Fisher's exact tests, Kaplan–Meier survival estimates and a Cox proportional-hazards model were utilized. Results. EGFR gene amplification and chromosome 7 high polysomy were observed in 12% and 6% of cases, respectively. IHC of malignant tissue with 3+ staining demonstrated 100% sensitivity and 79% specificity to detect EGFR gene amplification, yielding a 39% positive predictive value. Decreased survival (pb0.025) was observed in patients with gene amplification, and was associated with a more statistically robust 3.3 hazard ratio (pb0.005) in the Cox proportional-hazards model that controlled for age at diagnosis, stage and lymph node metastasis. Univariate analysis confirmed that EGFR gene amplification was associated with the absence of high-risk HPV (pb0.001). Common activating EGFR gene mutations were not identified. Conclusion. A subset of patients with vulvar squamous cell carcinoma was identified with EGFR gene amplification that was HPV-independent and associated with poor prognosis. Given the association of EGFR amplification with response to targeted therapy in other tumor types, these patients may be candidates for therapeutic strategies that target the EGFR pathway.
The perception of 3D shape from planar cut contours

A new computational analysis is described for estimating 3D shapes from orthographic images of surfaces that are textured with planar cut contours. For any given contour pattern, this model provides a family of possible interpretations that are all related by affine scaling and shearing transformations in depth, depending on the specific values of its free parameters that are used to compute the shape estimate. Two psychophysical experiments were performed in an effort to compare the model predictions with observers' judgments of 3D shape for developable and non-developable surfaces. The results reveal that observers' perceptions can be systematically distorted by affine scaling and shearing transformations in depth and that the magnitude and direction of these distortions vary systematically with the 3D orientations of the contour planes.
A simple conversion of [E]- into the isomeric [Z]-2-(1-substituted-1-alkenyl)-1,3,2-dioxaborinanes, providing a convenient stereospecific synthesis of both [E]- and [Z]-1,2-disubstituted vinyl bromides

Abstract A highly stereo- and regioselective conversion of [ E ]- into [ Z ]-2-(1-substituted-l-alkenyl)-1,3,2-dioxaborinane has been achieved for the first time. Treatment of these boronic acid esters with bromine, followed by base, produces either [ Z ]- or [ E ]-disubstituted vinyl bromides in good yields (76–81%) and excellent stereochemical purities (> 99%). Replacement of boron moiety with bromine proceeds with complete inversion.
Hepatic Portal Venous Gas with Pneumatosis Intestinalis

Hepatic portal venous gas with pneumatosis intestinalis are radiological clues of intestinal ischemia. Prompt evaluation and a high index of clinical suspicion for the diagnosis of acute mesenteric ischemia are necessary given the high mortality of this condition. We present a case of mesenteric ischemia, radiological clues to diagnosis, and associated mechanisms.
Electron-Beam Atomic Spectroscopy for In Situ Measurements of Melt Composition for Refractory Metals: Analysis of Fundamental Physics and Plasma Models

Electron-beam (EB) melting is used for the processing of refractory metals, such as Ta, Nb, Mo, and W. These metals have high value and are critical to many industries, including the semiconductor, aerospace, and nuclear industries. EB melting can also purify secondary feedstock, enabling the recovery and recycling of these materials. Currently, there is no method for measuring melt composition in situ during EB melting. Optical emission spectroscopy of the plasma generated by EB impact with vapor above the melt, a technique here termed electron-beam atomic spectroscopy, can be used to measure melt composition in situ, allowing for analysis of melt dynamics, facilitating improvement of EB melting processes and aiding recycling and recovery of these critical and high-value metals. This paper reviews the physics of the plasma generation by EB impact by characterizing the densities and energies of electrons, ions, and neutrals, and describing the interactions between them. Then several plasma models are introduced and their suitability to this application analyzed. Lastly, a potential method for calibration-free composition measurement is described and the challenges for implementation addressed.
Rhizosphere effects on soil solution composition and mineral stability

Abstract Rhizosphere properties are known to differ from those of bulk soil, but differences are not always predictable and may be influenced by the kinds of plant roots and by soil mineral composition. Parent material primary minerals have a great influence on the soil secondary mineral suite, and the secondary phyllosilicates can influence soil solution composition. We hypothesized that 1) bulk soil solution and rhizosphere soil solution differ, 2) soil clay mineral Si content, hence parent material mineral composition, controls soil solution Al activity, 3) soil solution composition of soils acidified by agricultural fertilization practices differs from soil solution composition of soils acidified by long-term weathering, and 4) monocots and dicots differ in their rhizosphere effects. We compared the effects of a monocot (fescue, Vulpia myuros) and a dicot (tomato, Solanum lycopersicum) on rhizosphere solution composition in soils with a wide range of Si content. The greenhouse pot experiment was conducted using soils derived from parent materials of sialic, mafic, and mixed lithology. Differences between non-acidified, agriculturally-acidified, and naturally-acidic phases of soil within each parent material were compared so that a soil member of each parent material could be evaluated for its influence on rhizosphere chemistry. Mineral stability diagrams based on soil clay-fraction mineralogy for each parent material type served as guides to interpret rhizosphere effects on soil solution composition. These diagrams demonstrated that rhizosphere solution extracts are farther from equilibrium than are bulk soil solution extracts, that rhizosphere influences are greater in non-acidified than in agriculturally-acidified soils, and that the dicot changed the rhizosphere more than the monocot, relative to bulk soil. The sialic soil diagram suggests that conditions are not favorable for hydroxyl-Al interlayered 2:1 material (HIM) formation in this parent material, presumably because solution Si competes with 2:1 interlayer space for solution Al. The diagrams also suggest a montmorillonite → beidellite → kaolinite transformation in the mafic soil. We can draw no clear conclusions about which solid-phase sink controls solution Al in the non-acidified and agriculturally acidified mixed soils, but SRO aluminosilicate formation may attenuate the Al3 + activity in the naturally acidic soil.
Progress in human gene therapy

There have been major advances in our understanding of the molecular biology and pathophysiology of human disease over the past decade. This expanding knowledge of the basic mechanisms of human disease coupled with the development of efficient methods of transferring genes to mammalian cells has stimulated considerable interest in treating diseases with gene therapy. Clinical trials have demonstrated that human gene transfer is possible, that several strategies exist for successfully introducing exogenous genes to human cells, that a variety of transgenes can evoke biologic responses important to human diseases, and that gene transfer can provide valuable insights into the pathophysiology of human disorders. Initial clinical trials have yielded encouraging results and adverse reactions have been uncommon. Despite the advances in human gene transfer, significant obstacles need to be overcome before it becomes a firmly established therapeutic option for human illness. The potential benefits of utilizing human gene therapy in the treatment of hereditary and acquired disease have generated interest in further advancing this remarkable technology.
The fine structure of sow lutein cells.

The morphological observations described in this report are part of a biochemical study of progesterone intermediates using sow ovary. This tissue is extensively involved in the production of some steroid hormones. Because the lutein cells are thought to be involved in the synthesis of progesterone and its intermediates and because these cells constitute by size and number the greatest portion of the mass of sow ovary, we confined the morphological investigation to these cells. Sow corpora lutea, fixed with glutaraldehyde and osmium tetroxide were examined by light and electron microscopy. The lutein cells of the sow are large epithelioid cells with oval nuclei and extensive amounts of cytoplasm. Large masses of highly organized smooth endoplasmic reticulum, many oval mitochondria with tubular cristae, and many lipid droplets are present. Only a few profiles of rough endoplasmic reticulum are seen in any one section, and Golgi membranes cannot by distinguished from other smooth membranes. The smooth endoplasmic reticulum is the major membranous organelle in these luteal cells. Microsomal preparations from luteal cells must be very rich in fragments of these smooth membranes. The demonstration of many steroidogenic enzyme systems in microsomal preparations lends strong support to the supposition that these enzyme systems reside in the smooth endoplasmic reticulum.
Growth rate patterns which maintain a helical tissue tube

Twining plants have a growth rate pattern which produces a corkscrew-shaped form, a helical tube of tissue. The form is established in the apical part of the growth zone. The plant apex has a complicated, undulatory growth trajectory with temporal and spatial periodicities. In contrast, older tissue in the basal two-thirds of the growth zone expands and is displaced rather smoothly through the steady form. This part of the stem can be modelled as a tube of radius w surrounding a generative helix α ( s ), where s is arc length along α . Position vectors to points in the stem can then be given in terms of α , the Frenet unit vectors, and the natural co-ordinates s,φ , r , where the angle φ is measured from the normal to α , and r is distance along the radius at φ . If pitch and radius of the helical coil are given, then the metric tensor for the curvilinear, non-orthogonal, natural co-ordinate system can be used to calculate lengths of tissue elements. If velocities along the generative helix are known, a form of the strain rate tensor, with components which are covariant derivatives of the co-variant velocity components, can be computed and used to find elongation rates of line elements during twining growth. Untapered stems are produced by a uniform distribution of the growth strain rate; tapered, nonrotating stems elongate slightly more rapidly on the “outside” of the coiled stem; tapered, rotating stems have a φ -dependent elongation rate field with a maximum on the bottom surface of the stem.
Aging-Associated Enzyme Human Clock-1: Substrate-Mediated Reduction of the Diiron Center for 5-Demethoxyubiquinone Hydroxylation

The mitochondrial membrane-bound enzyme Clock-1 (CLK-1) extends the average longevity of mice and Caenorhabditis elegans, as demonstrated for Δclk-1 constructs for both organisms. Such an apparent impact on aging and the presence of a carboxylate-bridged diiron center in the enzyme inspired this work. We expressed a soluble human CLK-1 (hCLK-1) fusion protein with an N-terminal immunoglobulin binding domain of protein G (GB1). Inclusion of the solubility tag allowed for thorough characterization of the carboxylate-bridged diiron active site of the resulting GB1-hCLK-1 by spectroscopic and kinetic methods. Both UV-visible and Mossbauer experiments provide unambiguous evidence that GB1-hCLK-1 functions as a 5-demethoxyubiquinone-hydroxylase, utilizing its carboxylate-bridged diiron center. The binding of DMQn (n = 0 or 2) to GB1-hCLK-1 mediates reduction of the diiron center by nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) and initiates O2 activation for subsequent DMQ hydroxylation. Deployment of DMQ to mediate reduction of the diiron center in GB1-hCLK-1 improves substrate specificity and diminishes consumption of NADH that is uncoupled from substrate oxidation. Both Vmax and kcat/KM for DMQ hydroxylation increase when DMQ0 is replaced by DMQ2 as the substrate, which demonstrates that an isoprenoid side chain enhances enzymatic hydroxylation and improves catalytic efficiency.
A novel token passing algorithm for management of refueling vehicles in a multi-UUV 24/7 mission scenario

During extended continuous operations, gaps can form in the operations area when vehicles leave to recharge their energy supplies. This project implements a novel token-passing algorithm to manage a refueling strategy for cooperating unmanned undersea vehicles. The algorithm, which limits the number of vehicles to refuel during any time segment, robustly accommodates intermittent communications.
Is there a rebound effect after clopidogrel discontinuation in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention with drug-eluting stent implantation?

Objective: The uptake of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (OxLDL) by macrophages is an important early event in the development of atherosclerosis. Recent evidences suggest that the endogenous and exogenous cannabinoid system participates in regulating of lipid metabolism and body composition. In the present study, therefore, whether Win55212-2, a synthetic cannabinoid, participates in modulations of the cellular cholesterol metabolism in macrophages was investigated. Methods: RAW264.7 mouse macrophages were cultured and incubated with OxLDL and Win55212-2 alone or combined. Cellular cholesterol taken up by macrophages was visualized by oil-red O staining and quantified by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry; The mRNA levels and protein expressions of peroxisome proliferators activated receptor gamma (PPAR-gamma) and its downstream scavenger receptor CD36 were measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, or fluorescence activated cell sorting analysis methods. Results: The results showed the following: (1) Win55212-2 (1–20 μM) promoted macrophages to take up OxLDL mainly in the forms of total and esterified cellular cholesterol (Pb.01); (2) compared with control incubated with OxLDL alone, mRNA levels of PPAR-gamma receptor were increased by 1.97-, 4.08-, 9or 40.57-fold by WIN55212-2 at the concentrations of 1, 5, 10, and 20 μM, accordingly, and its protein expressions up-regulated by 1.34-, 2.36-, 2.51-or 3.63-fold, respectively; (3) in comparison with control incubated with OxLDL alone, the expressions of CD36 mRNAwere 1.52-, 2.89-, 2.18-, and 10.18-fold by incubations combined with win55212-2 (1, 5, 10, or 20 μM), and its counterpartly protein expressions increased by 1.07-, 1.29-, 1.35-, and 1.41-fold, respectively. Conclusion: We demonstrate for the first time that synthetic cannabinoid, Win55212-2 promotes macrophages to take up OxLDL by activating PPARgamma receptor-mediated CD36 receptor signal pathway.
Ultra-small punchthrough MOSFET

Abstract A design for an ultra-small MOSFET is presented. MOSFETs with submicron channel lengths ( L ≲ 0.25 μm ) that operate with controlled punchthrough current are analyzed by two-dimensional numerical modeling. Current-voltage characteristics for subthreshold, nonsaturated and saturated regions of operation were obtained at various temperatures for devices of different channel length. The results indicate that device current is due to barrier-limited, space-charge-limited and surface-inversion conduction processes.
Effect of beam diameter on pulsed laser polishing of S7 tool steel

Abstract Tool steels such as S7 are often used for molds and dies, an application that requires both an extremely smooth surface and tight geometric tolerances. Pulsed laser micro polishing (PLμP) is a process capable of achieving significant surface smoothing quickly and without removing material. This paper presents the effect of melt pool diameter (laser spot diameter) on surface topography during pulsed laser polishing. How the manipulation of melt pool diameter during three-pass laser polishing can reduce surface roughness is also discussed.
Excess enthalpies for ethane + acetonitrile at 298.15, 323.15, and 348.15 K and at 7.5 and 15 MPa

Abstract Excess enthalpies have been determined for acetonitrile + ethane at 298.15, 323.15 and 348.15 K and at pressures of 7.5 and 15 MPa. The critical point for ethane is at 305.50 K and 4.914 MPa. Hence, the measurements at 298.15 K are with liquid ethane while those at 323.15 and 348.15 K are with supercritical ethane. This system enables us to make interesting comparisons of excess enthalpies and phase equilibria for a non-polar liquid (or supercritical fluid) with a second polar liquid. For example, pressure has a large effect on H m E at 323.15 and 348.15 K where the ethane is supercritical, but not at 298.15 K where the ethane is liquid. Liquid ethane + acetonitrile have a miscibility gap which continues into the supercritical region. The H m E results at 15 MPa have been used to obtain the fluid + Hiquid phase diagram at this pressure.
Temperature Dependence of the Alpha-Ester Rearrangement Reaction

Measurements have been made of the oxidation products of methyl formate and methyl acetate as a function of temperature (253−324 K). Both processes show the occurrence of the α-ester rearrangement channel RC(O)OCH2O• → RC(O)OH + HCO, which has an activation energy of ∼10 kcal mol-1. Reaction of hydroxyl radicals with methyl formate occurs with roughly equal efficiency at both of the carbon atoms, while OH-reaction with methyl acetate leads to 30−40% attack at the acetate group.
Differences in Characteristics of Online versus Traditional Students: Implications for Target Marketing

ABSTRACT This study provides insight for educators and administrators into differences between students enrolled in Web-based and traditional classes as online learning enters the growth stage of its product life cycle. We identify characteristics that differentiate online students from those who prefer traditional education methods in order to offer more effective marketing techniques for attracting and retaining online students. Results of the study suggest that students in traditional classes have higher perceptions of performance and financial risk than their online counterparts. Social character was another important factor determining the choice of traditional over online learning. Recommendations to assist administrators in increasing enrollment in their online programs are presented.
Economic integration of poor countries: Obstacles and prospects

This paper examines the principal factors affecting the growth of intra‐group trade for four Latin American and Caribbean economic groups. Its findings suggest that the share of a group member's leading export sold within the group is an important determinant of intra‐group trade. For member countries that depend heavily on extra‐group markets, intra‐group trade is indirectly affected by the impact of extra‐group trade on gross domestic product.
Effect of topical and subcutaneous epinephrine in combination with topical thrombin in blood loss during immediate near-total burn wound excision in pediatric burned patients

Bleeding is a major concern during burn wound excision. To evaluate the efficacy of epinephrine to control blood loss, a prospective cohort of 42 pediatric patients were examined. Half of the patients received topical epinephrine to excised wounds and donor sites and subcutaneous epinephrine to scalp donor sites during total burn excision, while the other half did not. Both groups of patients received bovine topical thrombin sprayed at a concentration of 1000 U/ml. Mean blood loss in the epinephrine group was 1090 ml (range 20-4000), with a blood loss of 0.48+/-0.12 ml/cm2 excised, while the control group was 1271 ml (range 40-3750) and 0.51+/-0.15 ml/cm2. Differences in preoperative and postoperative hematocrits were respectively -3.4+/-7.8 and -4.6+/-7.5. The groups were not statistically different in this analysis. Subgroup analysis by age, burn size and time of burn to excision showed no differences. No complications or side effects of the use of the vasopressor solution occurred. In conclusion, no differences in blood loss were found between the groups. The routine use of local epinephrine during total wound excision in combination with topical thrombin in pediatric patients operated within 24 h after the admission may not be necessary. The effect of topical thrombin on blood loss should be analyzed separately.
Regulation of sialomucin complex/Muc4 expression in rat uterine luminal epithelial cells by transforming growth factor‐β: Implications for blastocyst implantation

Blastocyst implantation is arguably the most critical stage of mammalian embryogenesis and requires that the uterus be in a receptive state. Initiation of receptivity involves loss of anti-adhesive molecules from the apical surface of the uterine luminal epithelium, one of which is sialomucin complex (SMC/Muc4), a highly O-glycosylated, anti-adhesive glycoprotein composed of mucin ascites sialoglycoprotein-1 (ASGP-1) and transmembrane (ASGP-2) subunits. SMC expression at the uterine luminal surface, but not in glandular epithelium, is hormonally regulated and varies with the estrous cycle. SMC is lost from the luminal uterine surface at the period of receptivity. However, the mechanism by which SMC is hormonally regulated is not understood. Analyses of SMC regulation in hormone-responsive primary cultures of rat uterine luminal epithelial cells (RULEC) demonstrated robust SMC expression by the RULEC, which is not altered by treatments with estrogen or progesterone. However, both SMC protein and transcript are downregulated by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β1). SMC is also downregulated when RULEC are co-cultured with isolated uterine stromal cells. Estradiol and anti-TGF-β block the stromal cell effect. These results suggest an indirect hormonal regulation of RULEC SMC, in which TGF-β acts as a hormonally regulated, mesenchymal paracrine factor to repress SMC production by the epithelial cells and permit implantation. J. Cell. Physiol. 185:310–316, 2000. © 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Satires of Rome: Threatening Poses from Lucilius to Juvenal

This survey of Roman satire locates its most salient possibilities and effects at the center of every Roman reader's cultural and political self-understanding. This book describes the genre's numerous shifts in focus and tone over several centuries (from Lucilius to Juvenal) not as mere 'generic adjustments' that reflect the personal preferences of its authors, but as separate chapters in a special, generically encoded story of Rome's lost, and much lionized, Republican identity. Freedom exists in performance in ancient Rome: it is a 'spoken' entity. As a result, satire's programmatic shifts, from 'open' to 'understated' to 'cryptic' and so on, can never be purely 'literary' and 'apolitical' in focus and/or tone. In Satires of Rome, Professor Freudenburg reads these shifts as the genre's unique way of staging and agonizing over a crisis in Roman identity. Satire's standard 'genre question' in this book becomes a question of the Roman self.
College students' attitudes toward inmate programs, services, and amenities

In recent years, state departments of correction have been eliminating or reducing the number of inmate programs, services, and amenities. Studies of societal attitudes toward these “privileges” have consistently shown a lack support for these reductions and eliminations. College students' views of these items have been lacking in sociological and correctional literature. Using data gathered from 553 college students from a mid‐sized southern university, we examined the difference in attitudes among these students based on their gender, race, age, major, class standing, and political ideology. Most of the programs, services, and amenities received more support for being maintained rather than eliminated. Only items which could be described as “frills” (boxing and martial arts, cable television, pornography, R‐rated movies, and conjugal visits) were seen as items which should be removed from prisons. In addition to these findings, gender, race, age, major, class standing, and political ideology predicted s...
A new mathematical approach for qualitative modeling of the insulin-TOR-MAPK network

In this paper we develop a novel mathematical model of the insulin-TOR-MAPK signaling network that controls growth. Most data on the properties of the insulin and MAPK signaling networks are static and the responses to experimental interventions, such as knockouts, overexpression, and hormonal input are typically reported as scaled quantities. The modeling paradigm we develop here uses scaled variables and is ideally suited to simulate systems in which much of the available data are scaled. Our mathematical representation of signaling networks provides a way to reconcile theory and experiments, thus leading to a better understanding of the properties and function of these signaling networks. We test the performance of the model against a broad diversity of experimental data. The model correctly reproduces experimental insulin dose-response relationships. We study the interaction between insulin and MAPK signaling in the control of protein synthesis, and the interactions between amino acids, insulin and TOR signaling. We study the effects of variation in FOXO expression on protein synthesis and glucose transport capacity, and show that a FOXO knockout can partially rescue protein synthesis capacity of an insulin receptor (INR) knockout. We conclude that the modeling paradigm we develop provides a simple tool to investigate the qualitative properties of signaling networks.
Sweetness Determinant Sites of Brazzein, a Small, Heat-Stable, Sweet-Tasting Protein

Abstract Brazzein, originally isolated from the fruit of the African plant Pentadiplandra brazzeana Baillon, is the smallest, most heat-stable and pH-stable member of the set of proteins known to have intrinsic sweetness. These properties make brazzein an ideal system for investigating the chemical and structural requirements of a sweet-tasting protein. We have used the three-dimensional structure of the protein (J. E. Caldwell et al. (1998) Nat. Struct. Biol. 5, 427–431) as a guide in designing 15 synthetic genes in expression constructs aimed at delineating the sweetness determinants of brazzein. Protein was produced heterologously in Escherichia coli, isolated, and purified as described in the companion paper (Assadi-Porter, F. M., Aceti, D., Cheng, H., and Markley, J. L., this issue). Analysis by one-dimensional 1H NMR spectroscopy indicated that all but one of these variants had folded properly under the conditions used. A taste panel compared the gustatory properties of solutions of these proteins to those of sucrose and brazzein isolated from fruit. Of the 14 mutations in the des-pGlu1-brazzein background, four exhibited almost no sweetness, six had significantly reduced sweetness, two had taste properties equivalent to des-pGlu1-brazzein (two times as sweet as the major form of brazzein isolated from fruit which contains pGlu1), and two were about twice as sweet as des-pGlu1-brazzein. Overall, the results suggest that two regions of the protein are critical for the sweetness of brazzein: a region that includes the N- and C-termini of the protein, which are located close to one another, and a region that includes the flexible loop around Arg43.
GROWTH, NUTRIENT CONTENT, AND GROWTH MEDIUM ELECTRICAL CONDUCTIVITY OF POINSETTIA IRRIGATED BY SUBIRRIGATION OR FROM OVERHEAD

The effects of subirrigation versus conventional overhead irrigation on the growth and nutrition of containerized poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima Willd. Ex Klotz) were studied by growing ‘Red Sails’ at different fertilizer levels. Plants were grown in 1.6-L pots of soilless growth medium and fertilized twice a week with 20N-4.3P-16.6K water-soluble fertilizer at 100, 175, 250, or 325 mg NL−1. Fertilizer solutions and extra irrigation water were applied by subirrigation from saucers placed below the pots or by conventional overhead watering. Regardless of irrigation method plants received 200–250mL of fertilize solution or tapwater at each irrigation. All treatments resulted in commercially acceptable plants at the end of the study, however overhead-irrigated plants were larger in diameter and had more shoot dry weight than subirrigated plants. There were no differences in plant height or bract diameter due to irrigation method and plant growth parameters were not affected by fertilizer level. The recent...
Teaching Reading Comprehension Through Collaborative Strategic Reading

This article provides an overview of collaborative strategic reading (CSR) as an approach to enhancing the reading comprehension skills of students with learning disabilities. The following four strategies that encompass CSR are presented: Preview, Click and Clunk, Get the Gist, and Wrap-Up. Procedures for implementing CSR with collaborative groups and techniques for teaching reading comprehension skills to students with learning disabilities are provided. The role of the teacher in enhancing the implementation of CSR is described, and sample teaching vignettes are included.
Paradoxes of community‐building: community control in the global economy

This article is about the potential and limits of community control and development (community-building) in the developed world, but most of the references are to the USA. There is a paradox in the contemporary political economy. As the level of the social, political and economic relationships at which communities and cities are embedded has become increasingly globalised – and thereby remote from people in cities and communities – there has been a substantial turn towards the community level as the domain and level at which social, political and economic problems should be solved. The article explores this paradox, beginning with a detailed explanation of contemporary political economy – the increasing economic globalisation existing side by side with political devolution at the community level. This is followed by a discussion of the growth of community-based organisations in the USA, their activities and their histories. From there, the article shifts gears to critique the theories of community that guide most mainstream practices. The article ends with a discussion of alternative forms of community organising and development that lead towards greater community control in the context of capital mobility and economic globalisation.
Structural crossover in dense irreversibly aggregating particulate systems.

Cluster-cluster aggregation has been simulated by off-lattice Monte Carlo methods for diffusion-limited (DLCA), ballistic-limited, and reaction-limited cluster aggregation classes. We find that as the system evolves and becomes dense, the largest cluster develops a hybrid structure with mass fractal dimension ${D}_{f}\ensuremath{\simeq}2.6$ over large length scales, while at smaller length scales, the early time dilute-limit fractal structure is frozen in. The largest cluster is thus an aggregate of smaller aggregates with a different fractal dimension, and we call it a ``superaggregate.'' The crossover length separating the two morphologies, which we call the critical radius of gyration, can be calculated based on a simple theory that assumes a monodisperse cluster size distribution. This agrees well with simulation results for DLCA. However, for other classes we find that the increasing polydispersity in cluster size pushes the simulated crossover length radius of gyration to values systematically larger than the predicted value.
The elastic modulus of fetal cranial bone: A first step towards an understanding of the biomechanics of fetal head molding

Fetal head molding is the change in shape of the fetal head due to forces of labor. The biomechanics of this process are poorly understood. To understand it better, classical engineering structural analysis is being applied to analyze the process. A fundamental part of this analysis is to describe the mechanical properties of the constituent materials, a knowledge which has been lacking for fetal cranial bone. As a first step toward defining the mechanical properties, 86 specimens of fetal cranial bone obtained from specimens ranging in estimated gestational age from 25 to 40 weeks were tested in three-point bending. In addition, 12 specimens from a 6-yr-old calvarium were tested for comparative purposes. The data indicate that the elastic modulus is highly sensitive to gestational age and fiber orientation. Elastic modulus values for specimens with parallel fiber orientation are in the range of 1.65 × 103 MPa for preterm bone to 3.86 × 103 MPa for term bone. The results are discussed with respect to the limitations of the test method. Finally, clinical inferences are made.
Scarcity of icosahedra in quenched simple atomic liquids.

In an extension of an earlier study [F.H. Stillinger and R. A. LaViolette, Phys. Rev. B 34, 5136 (1986)], amorphous deposits were quenched at constant volume from each of two model one-component atomic liquids for a range of densities in which the corresponding crystalline phase is close packed. That study concluded that local icosahedral coordination in monatomic amorphous substances was rare, in conflict with other reports of abundant icosahedral coordination. Here, in an attempt to find circumstances which might favor icosahedral arrangements, one of the liquids was cooled below its vitrification temperature before quenching. In another attempt, both liquids were quenched at various densities, which in some cases produced deposits under tension. Nevertheless, for all cases considered here, fewer than 1 in 1000 twelvefold-coordinated atoms possessed an icosahedral arrangement of its neighbors. These results are combined with those reported elsewhere in order to conclude that local icosahedral arrangements cannot serve as a motif for the disorder in amorphous deposits of simple atomic substances, in contrast to the claims of other studies.
Direct printing of trichlorosilanes on glass for selective protein adsorption and cell growth

Here we describe new methodology that allows for direct microcontact printing of octadecyltrichlorosilane onto glass coverslips followed by backfilling with an ethylene glycol terminated trichloroalkane silane; this produces patterns with regions that promote and prevent protein adsorption and allow for control of cell growth.
Approximate thermodynamics of the liquid-like layer on an ice sphere based on an interpretation of the wetting parameter

Abstract The approximate thermodynamics of a liquid-like layer, which was originally developed for a planar ice surface based on an interpretation of the wetting parameter, is extended to a spherical ice surface to help discover the effects of the liquid-like layer on the properties of an ice surface.
Combining matching scores in identification model

The paper discusses a problem of combining recognition scores for different classes produced by one recognizer during one recognition attempt. This problem arises in identification problems which we define as 1:N classification problems with big or variable N. By using artificial example we show that intuitive solution of making identification decision based solely on the best matching score is frequently suboptimal. Paper presents reasons for such behavior, and draws parallels with score normalization technique used in speaker identification. Two examples of real life applications illustrate the possible benefits of properly combining recognition scores.
Thermal Moore's law and near-field thermal conductance in carbon-based electronics

The novel thermal conductance mechanism, theoretically predicted and experimentally measured in nanotube field-effect transistors (FET), is discussed with respect to the power dissipation problem of modern carbon-based electronics. Such an effect is due to the near-field coupling of the charge carriers in the transistor channel with the local electric field of the surface electromagnetic modes. The coupling leads to a quantum electrodynamic (QED) energy exchange between the hot electrons in FET channel and the optical polar phonon bath being in thermal equilibrium with the substrate. For an example of a NT on silica, this QED coupling mechanism is shown to exceed significantly the interface Kapitza conductance, that is, the classical phonon heat transport. The QED thermal conductance is proposed to play dominant role in the energy dissipation in nanoelectronics with a hetero-interface between the device channel and the polar substrate.
Extrapyramidal signs in normal pressure hydrocephalus: an objective assessment

Background Beyond the classic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) triad of gait disturbance, incontinence, and dementia are characteristic signs of motor dysfunction in NPH patients. We used highly sensitive and objective methods to characterize upper limb extrapyramidal signs in a series of NPH subjects compared with controls. Concentrated evaluation of these profound, yet underappreciated movement disorders of NPH before and after techniques of therapeutic intervention may lead to improved diagnosis, insight into pathophysiology, and targeted treatment.
On space-times with U(1) × U(1) symmetric compact Cauchy surfaces

Abstract General space-times evolving from U (1) × U (1) symmetric Cauchy data prescribed on compact Cauchy surfaces are studied. Existence and properties of solutions of the constraint equations are analyzed. Some “canonical” forms of the metric are derived. When the spatial topology is S 3 or S 2 × S 1 or L ( p , q ) we show that no singularities form before “the spacelike boundary of Gowdy's square” is reached.
Analysis of handwriting individuality using word features

Analysis of allographs (characters) and allograph combinations(words) is the key for obtaining the discriminatingelements of handwriting. While allographs usually inhabitin words and segregation of a word into allographs ismore subjective than objective, especially for cursive writing,analysis of handwritten words is a natural and betteroption. In this study, a handwritten word image is characterizedby gradient, structural, and concavity features, andindividuality of handwritten words is experimented throughwritership identification and verification on over 12,000word images extracted from 3000 handwriting samples of1000 individuals in U.S.. Experimental results show thathandwritten words are very effective in differentiating handwritingand carry more individuality than most handwrittencharacters (allographs).
Joint exploration in the South China Sea

Chinese scientists, and American researchers from Lamont-Doherty Geological Observatory, Palisades, New York, are conducting joint explorations of the geological history, evolution, and structure of the South China Sea. Several parts of the project have already been completed and more sophisticated investigations are planned for the future. The combined effort got an official start on December 3rd, when Lamont-Doherty associate director Dennis E. Hayes arrived in Kuangchow (Canton) aboard the observatory's research vessel Vema and signed formal protocols (agreements) with People's Republic of China Ministry of Geology representative Guo Zhenxi.
Design and measurement of an MQW nipi waveguide modulator for optoelectronic integrated circuits

A procedure for optimizing MQW hetero-nipi waveguide phase modulators is presented that includes both drive voltage and frequency response. Experimental phase change, absorption change, and frequency response measurements of a modulator designed using this algorithm are presented. In a 300-/spl mu/m-long device consisting of 3 nipi periods, /spl pi/ phase shift is achieved with an applied voltage of 3.25 V with a frequency bandwidth on the order of 200 MHz.
SDF-2 Induction of Terminal Differentiation in Dictyostelium discoideum Is Mediated by the Membrane-Spanning Sensor Kinase DhkA

SDF-2 is a peptide released by prestalk cells during culmination that stimulates prespore cells to encapsulate. Genetic evidence indicates that the response is dependent on the dhkA gene. This gene encodes a member of the histidine kinase family of genes that functions in two-component signal transduction pathways. The sequence of the N-terminal half of DhkA predicts two hydrophobic domains separated by a 310-amino-acid loop that could bind a ligand. By inserting MYC6 epitopes into DhkA, we were able to show that the loop is extracellular while the catalytic domain is cytoplasmic. Cells expressing the MYC epitope in the extracellular domain of DhkA were found to respond only if induced with 100-fold-higher levels of SDF-2 than required to induce dhkA+ cells; however, they could be induced to sporulate by addition of antibodies specific to the MYC epitope. To examine the enzymatic activity of DhkA, we purified the catalytic domain following expression in bacteria and observed incorporation of labelled phosphate from ATP consistent with histidine autophosphorylation. Site-directed mutagenesis of histidine1395 to glutamine in the catalytic domain blocked autophosphorylation. Furthermore, genetic analyses showed that histidine1395 and the relay aspartate2075 of DhkA are both critical to its function but that another histidine kinase, DhkB, can partially compensate for the lack of DhkA activity. Sporulation is drastically reduced in double mutants lacking both DhkA and DhkB. Suppressor studies indicate that the cyclic AMP (cAMP) phosphodiesterase RegA and the cAMP-dependent protein kinase PKA act downstream of DhkA.