cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Inhibitory effect of prostaglandins on dopamine release from the retina.

Abstract 1. Prostaglandins have been shown to modulate transmitter release from both central and peripheral neuroeffector junctions. In the present study, we examined the effect of prostaglandins on [ 3 H]-dopamine release from isolated, superfused rabbit retina. 2. Both naturally occurring and synthetic prostaglandins produced concentration-dependent reduction of electrically evoked [ 3 H]-dopamine overflow without affecting basal tracer efflux. The rank order of potencies of the agonists was: sulprostone > 16, 16-dimethyl PGE 2 >PGE 2 > > 11-deoxy-PGE 1 >PGF 2 α . 3. The PGE 2 -mediated inhibition of field stimulated [ 3 H]-dopamine release was not blocked by the selective EP 1 -receptor antagonist, AH6809 (5–30 μM). 4. The cyclooxygenase inhibitor, flurbiprofen (3 μM) had no effect on basal or evoked [ 3 H]-dopamine overflow nor did it affect the inhibition caused by PGE 2 suggesting that endogenous prostaglandins are not involved in the regulation of dopamine release in the retina. 5. The inhibition of [ 3 H]-dopamine release produced by submaximal concentrations of PGE 2 , apomorphine and melatonin were not additive indicating that presynaptic PGE 2 , D 2 - and melatonin receptors coexist at sites for neurotransmitter release and may share a common mechanism for regulation of dopamine release. 6. We conclude that prostaglandin-induced inhibition of electrically evoked [ 3 H]-dopamine release from the rabbit retina may be mediated by specific prostaglandin receptors of the EP 3 subtype.
Human hepatic 3α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase : possible identity with human hepatic chlordecone reductase

Abstract 3α-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase is a cytosolic, monomeric, NADPH-dependent oxidoreductase which reduces 3-keto-5-dihydrosteroids to their tetrahydro products. We present here the first partial amino acid sequence data for the human liver enzyme and show these sequences to be identical to the deduced amino acid sequence for human hepatic chlordecone reductase. In addition, these two enzymes exhibit similar substrate and cofactor specificities and immunological reactivity. The results suggest that the natural substrates for chlordecone reductase are 3-keto-5-dihydrosteroids and that these two proteins may be identical.
High temperature X-ray diffraction study of LiGaO2

Abstract In recent years LiGaO 2 has been gaining attention as a substrate material for the growth of GaN. Since film deposition is generally carried out at high temperatures the behavior of the substrate at processing temperatures should be known. The lattice constants of polycrystalline LiGaO 2 were measured from room temperature to 1423 K and the linear thermal expansion coefficients in the temperature range between 293 and 1423 K were determined to be α a =10.1±0.2×10 −6 K −1 , α b =21.1±0.3×10 −6 K −1 , and α c =13.6±0.2×10 −6 K −1 . High temperature X-ray powder diffraction data show that at above 1173 K the Ga rich phases, LiGa 5 O 8 and Ga 2 O 3 , start to form indicating volatilization of the Li from the structure.
DIGITAL DENTISTRY IN THE COMPUTER AGE

ABSTRACT Background and Overview Computers are becoming an integral part of the practice of dentistry. Smaller, smarter and more ergonomic computing devices will support an increasing proportion of dental practice activities. Technology will make practice management more efficient, mainly by reducing transactional overhead. Educational software and intelligent assistants will increasingly support the needs for decision making in clinical practice. Research will benefit from automated tools for data acquisition, management and analysis. Conclusions Dentistry must actively shape the application of technology. It can do this by developing a cadre of experts in dental informatics, relying on sound research principles, effectively disseminating best practices and developing strategic objectives for the implementation of technology. Clinical Implications Computer technology is an essential ingredient for state-of-the-art patient care. Dentists must stay current with this rapidly developing field to make appropriate choices in their use of technology.
Conversion of 14C glucose into free amino acids and peptides during metamorphosis of the blowfly, Phormia regina

The incorporation of 14C from labelled glucose into non-essential free amino acids was highest at puparium formation. The labelled amino acids declined substantially during pupal development with minor changes appearing in the pharate adult. The total amount of unlabelled free and peptide amino acids tended to exhibit a U-shaped curve during metamorphosis. Changes in the essential free amino acids correlate well with periods of tissue histolysis and protein synthesis. The non-essential free amino acids exhibit changes which indicate that these amino acids may be utilized as an energy source during early metamorphosis and contribute to protein synthesis in the pharate adult.
Pierre Auger Observatory hybrid events: design, analysis, and preliminary results

The Pierre Auger Project is an international effort to make a high statistics study of cosmic rays at the highest energies. To obtain full sky coverage two nearly identical air shower detectors will be constructed, one to be placed in the Northern Hemisphere and one in the Southern Hemisphere. Each installation will have an array of about 1,600 particle detectors spread over 3,000 km2. Atmospheric fluorescence telescopes placed within and on the boundaries of the surface array will record showers that strike the array. The two air shower detector techniques working together form a powerful, hybrid, instrument for these studies. The results from both air fluorescence and surface detectors, on their own, have been quite notable, but are also notable in their disagreement with each other. Hence the concept of an experiment unifying the two approaches to the highest-energy cosmic rays. It is the design of the hybrid nature of the experiment, the analysis of events with hybrid information, and some preliminary results that will be discussed here.
Load Transfer in Torsion of Compound Cylinders With a Cylindrical Crack

A general formulation is given for the problem of torsion of a cylinder embedded in another cylinder in the presence of a cylindrical crack at the interface. The present formulation leads to a coupled pair of dual relations involving trigonometric series. By an extension of certain methods of solving dual series equations an integral equation is obtained which in general is singular. Stress singularities near the crack tip and at the juncture when there is no crack are discussed. Based upon a numerical solution of the integral equation, stress-intensity factor, torque, and several other quantities of interest are obtained for the homogeneous case when the radius of the outer cylinder is infinitely large.
HIM-8 Binds to the X Chromosome Pairing Center and Mediates Chromosome-Specific Meiotic Synapsis

The him-8 gene is essential for proper meiotic segregation of the X chromosomes in C. elegans. Here we show that loss of him-8 function causes profound X chromosome-specific defects in homolog pairing and synapsis. him-8 encodes a C2H2 zinc-finger protein that is expressed during meiosis and concentrates at a site on the X chromosome known as the meiotic pairing center (PC). A role for HIM-8 in PC function is supported by genetic interactions between PC lesions and him-8 mutations. HIM-8 bound chromosome sites associate with the nuclear envelope (NE) throughout meiotic prophase. Surprisingly, a point mutation in him-8 that retains both chromosome binding and NE localization fails to stabilize pairing or promote synapsis. These observations indicate that stabilization of homolog pairing is an active process in which the tethering of chromosome sites to the NE may be necessary but is not sufficient.
Social Identity Theory and the reduction of inequality: Can cross-cutting categorization reduce inequality in mixed-race groups?

A strategy to modify racial inequality in task groups was tested. Based on social identity literature: If members of a group are encouraged to think of other group members as individuals instead of representatives of a larger group, cross-cutting categorization may decrease the effects of race. Thirty groups of one Black woman and two white women, were randomly assigned to either a condition in which group members knew only that some people did better than others on the task (baseline condition), or a condition in which individualization of group members was emphasized (cross-cutting condition). The task was exactly the same in both conditions; only the description of it varied. Relative to the baseline condition, the cross-cutting condition does not significantly decrease the inequality between Black and white group members. Implications of these results for future research on group racial dynamics are considered.
Geophysical surveys of a pluvial lake barrier deposit, Beatty Junction, Death Valley, California, USA

Abstract We used ground penetrating radar (GPR) and seismic refraction to image the internal stratigraphy of a beach barrier deposit at Beatty Junction, Northern Death Valley, to better understand its depositional environment in the context of variations in the level of the former Lake Manly. The deposit is a gravelly bar ~ 500 m long with 4 m of surface relief that formed at a shoreline of Lake Manly during the end of the last Pleistocene ice age. The GPR profiles provide subsurface images that we interpret as progradational foreset beachface strata in the uppermost 2 m and the surface of an earlier bar at depths of 2 to 6 m. We conclude that the crest of the bar migrated in a landward direction during the construction of the uppermost 4 m of the bar as lake level rose. The seismic survey indicates a sharp velocity increase from 760 m/s to 1510 m/s at the base of the bar, which we interpret as the boundary between well-sorted gravelly beach deposits, and underlying older fan deposits. The depth of the base of the bar varies between 5 m and 10 m. The elevation of the bar is comparable to that of other shoreline features in Death Valley that formed during the MIS 6/5e (186–120 ka) highstand. Measurements of fault slip on the nearby Northern Death Valley fault have documented only strike–slip motion. In absence of any evidence for significant vertical uplift in the area during the late Pleistocene and Holocene, we conclude that the bar probably formed during MIS 6/5e. This conclusion is subject to uncertainty due to discrepancies in age dates reported for the deposit.
Temperament disturbances measured in infancy progress to substance use disorder 20 years later

Objective This prospective study determined whether temperament before two years of age predicts transmissible risk for substance use disorder (SUD) up to a decade later and SUD outcome in adulthood.
Molecular Subsets in the Gene Expression Signatures of Scleroderma Skin

Background Scleroderma is a clinically heterogeneous disease with a complex phenotype. The disease is characterized by vascular dysfunction, tissue fibrosis, internal organ dysfunction, and immune dysfunction resulting in autoantibody production.
A permeability database for composites manufacturing

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has developed a database containing a set of permeability results from carefully controlled measurements for both saturated and unsaturated flows in glass fabrics. The materials studied are fully documented in the database, and in some cases the material compressibility is also included. The experimental techniques used to generate the permeability data are briefly described and the included permeability data summarized. A sample search is illustrated to demonstrate the database user interface and the extent of the data documentation.
Susceptibility of Bean Seeds to Thermal and Impact Damage

Abstract After convectional drying, bean seeds (Nadwislanski variety) were subjected to impact trials conducted in a specially constructed centrifugal impactor. The influences of rotational speed of 1000-2500 rev/min, seed moisture content of 14-21% w.b., and drying air temperature of 25-55°C on seed damage and germination were examined. To make the results more useful, a theoretical analysis of the mechanical forces acting on the seed was conducted to determine impact velocities. Values of impact velocity, below 4·0m/s and seed moisture contents above 18% w.b. were associated with acceptable seed damage of 5%. The test conditions, within the ranges given above, had little effect on seed germination capacity.
Prenatal molecular diagnosis of tuberous sclerosis complex.

Objective The objective of the study was to report experience with prenatal molecular diagnosis of tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). Study Design Sequential deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) studies were performed on amniotic fluid cells and chorionic villi from 50 pregnant women at risk for having a child with TSC. Mutations were determined by gene sequencing and deletion/duplication analysis of the 2 TSC genes. Results DNA analysis was successful in 48 of 50 tested fetuses. Mutations were precisely identified in a family member (24) (TSC1 [5]; TSC2 [19]) and/or fetus (11) (TSC1 [3]; TSC2 [8]). Novel mutations were found in 19 individual families, and a probable polymorphism was noted in 4. Second-trimester ultrasound detected 18 fetuses with cardiac rhabdomyomas. There was insufficient DNA in 1, whereas 8 of 17 (47%) had a mutation, 6 (75%) being in TSC2. In 4 of 18 cases, a mutation was detected in the fetus for the first time despite a parent known to have TSC. Conclusion The value and utility of prenatal diagnosis of TSC by DNA analysis was demonstrated by the results in this series of 50 pregnancies in women at risk of having affected offspring. A family history of TSC or detection of fetal cardiac rhabdomyoma should prompt genetic evaluation and counseling of parents and the option of prenatal diagnosis.
Host‐specific variation in Ieaf miner population dynamics: effects on density, natural enemies and behaviour of Stilbosis quadricustatella (Lepidoptera: Cosmopterigidae)

. 1. We compared high and low density populations of a leaf miner (Stilbosis quadricustatella (Cham.)) on two host oaks to ascertain mechanisms influencing abundance. High density miner populations occurred on sand live oak, Quercus geminata (Fagaceae), found in homogeneous stands at inland and coastal sites. Quercus nigra, water oak, a patchily distributed inland species, supported a low density leaf miner population. 2. Average foliar nitrogen of Q.geminata was significantly lower than that of Q.nigra, and lad mining period on Q.geminata was correspondingly longer than on Q.nigra. 3. The average leaf area of Q.nigra was significantly greater than that of Q.geminata. 4. Parasitism was significantly greater in Q.geminata miner populations and predation was significantly higher in Q.nigra populations. However, parasitism and predation rates were roughly reciprocal so that overall larval mortality did not differ significantly between hosts. 5. In a laboratory experiment, pupal overwintering survivorship did not differ significantly between moist and dry treatments of the sand and loam soil types that typify Qgeminata and Q.nipra habitats, respectively. 6. Within-leaf miner density on Q.geminata significantly affected larval survivorship, parasitism and predation. Leaf area and within-leaf miner density were positively correlated. 7. We detected no host-patch area or isolation effect on miner densities on coastal Qgeminata and there was no significant gradient of local coastal conditions affecting larval survivorship or natural enemies. 8. Coastal leaf miner densities were significantly higher on oak patch edges than in interiors.
Towards Performance Predictive Application-Dependent Workload Characterization

Workload characterization is important for users, designers, and those specifying future machine acquisitions. If the characterization method is carefully crafted to be comprehensive and consistent across platforms, it can be used to specify characteristics and components that comprise an optimal micro-architecture for the workload or application. Prior work has traditionally focused on two primary objectives: explaining application performance on a particular architecture through bottleneck identification and studying application similarity. This work defines an efficient characterization methodology that enables performance prediction in the context of architecture resources in addition to understanding application performance and similarity. We use four different and relatively new benchmark suites; two of which have not been characterized before. We apply this technique on two distinct micro-architectures to show that the characterization is consistent across platforms and can be used to accurately and optimally map applications to a machine in a testbed of available platforms.
Work in progress: Engaging faculty for program improvement via EvalTools®: A new software model

In this paper we present our experiences with a new software-tool model for program assessment and evaluation, and engineering programs improvement in assessing learning effectiveness. In the past, the assessment plan was based on the typical practice of assigning a person in the department for overseeing the whole process. The non-collaborative evaluation that is managed by a single program leader is not effective and problematic. To involve more faculty and in an effort to prepare for the most recent ABET visit, we decided to adopt EvalTools® in fall of 2010. EvalTools® is designed and developed according to ABET standards to provide a mechanism for collecting and analyzing data about the program, students' performance and their learning achievements. In addition, EvalTools® is instrumental in providing a mechanism to simplify the process of inspecting the assessment results as well as identifies strengths and shortcomings of the program before ABET review. More importantly getting faculty members excited about results and involved in the process of program improvement is a major accomplishment. Our experience via first-time implementation of EvalTools® shows very useful results for this model that can be easily disseminated for various programs in various disciplines. In this paper we will show: process of best use of relevant features in aid of streamlining faculty's time in data collection as well as evaluation was achieved; our results and how we succeeded in improving our program quality in an effective, efficient and systematic way; that simple curriculum revisions for multiple programs as a result of using EvalTools® for programs under going ABET is possible; that capturing the process of effective trainings needed for faculty and staff in a simple manner; faculty's experience in a constructive and engaging manner.
51 SCRIPTAID AND MG132 IMPROVE DEVELOPMENT OF PORCINE EMBRYOS RECONSTRUCTED BY SOMATIC CELL NUCLEAR TRANSFER

Nuclear transfer efficiency in pigs and other large animal species is low. Previous studies have shown that histone deacetylase inhibitor (Scriptaid) and proteasomal inhibitor (MG132) treatment of somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) pig embryos enhances blastocyst formation and pregnancy. The current experiment was carried out to determine the effects of combined MG132 and Scriptaid treatment on early development of cloned pig embryos reconstituted by SCNT. A total of 328 sow oocytes procured from ART (Madison, WI, USA) were reconstructed using α-1,3-Galactosyltransferase knockout hDAF transgenic pig fetal-derived fibroblast cells. Immediately after electrofusion and activation, SCNT oocytes were treated with 0, 1, or 10 μM MG132 for 2 h and then treated with 500 nM Scriptaid for another 16 h. The SCNT embryos were washed and cultured in Porcine Zygote Medium 3 for 7 days. Percent cleavage was determined on Day 2, and blastocyst formation and cell number were determined on Day 7. The experiment was repreated 8 times. There was no difference (P > 0.05) in percent cleavage (57.9 to 66.7%), or cell number (25.5 to 30.6) among the 3 groups. Interestingly, while there was no difference in the percent blastocyst between the 1 μM and 0 μM MG132 treatment groups, more oocytes from the 1 μM MG132 group developed into blastocysts than in the 10 μM MG132 group (25.1 ± 4.6% v. 12.9 ± 3.3%; P = 0.045). Further research will be conducted to transfer these embryos to surrogate gilts to determine the true developmental competence of these embryos. Supported by the National Institutes of Health National Center for Research Resources (RR018877 and RR013438), and Food for the 21st Century.
Implementing real-time video abstraction

Iterated bilateral filtering and anisotropic diffusion are both adaptive smoothers. Adaptive smoothing operations are similar to a mean-shift filter, in that they move pixels values towards local modes. Iterated bilateral filtering in particular may be seen as a restricted mean-shift procedure [1]. However, unlike mean-shift, adaptive smoothing requires only local information, and is thus better suited to implementation on graphics hardware. We create an adaptive smoothing effect by iteratively applying the separable approximation to a bilateral filter first introduced by Pham and Vliet [2]. The result is very similar to that of a true iterated bilateral filter, but the separability allows for a faster implementation.
Historical Presence and Distribution of Prairies in the Black Belt of Mississippi and Alabama

Abstract The Black Belt region of Mississippi and Alabama has long been reported to contain prairies. To assess the extent and distribution of these prairies, this study examined historical accounts of prairie in the region, compiled a map based on surveyors' plat maps from the 1830s and compared the flora of existing prairie fragments with other open ecosystems in the Southeast using data from the literature. Numerous historical accounts attest to the presence in the Black Belt of prairies of varying sizes, discretely bounded by forest. Surveys from the 1830s show that approximately 144,000 hectares of prairie were present in the Black Belt. Fragments of remaining prairie appear most similar in composition with other southeastern prairies, as well as nearby open ecosystems. This evidence suggests that Black Belt prairies were a relatively small but distinctive ecosystem in the region.
Concurrent Sweet’s Syndrome and Erythema Nodosum

A 29-year-old Mexican man was admitted to the hospital with fever, cough, sore throat, and red, tender leg nodules suggestive of erythema nodosum (Fig. 1). The white blood cell count was 35,000. Several days later, annular plaques and pustules developed on his face, neck, and forearms (Figs. 2 and ​and3).3). Facial skin biopsy showed neutrophilic dermatitis without evidence of infection or vasculitis consistent with Sweet’s syndrome. Biopsy of the thigh was non-diagnostic, but showed a mixed neutrophilic and granulomatous dermatitis. Figure 1 The patient's legs show red, tender nodules suggestive of erythema nodosum. Figure 2 Annular plaques and pustules developed on the patient's face. Figure 3 Annular plaques developed on the patient's hands. Erythema nodosum (EN) is a form of panniculitis characterized by painful red nodules over the pretibial area. Sweet’s syndrome (SS) is an acute febrile neutrophilic dermatosis characterized by fever, leukocytosis, and erythematous plaques involving the arms, trunk, and neck. Vesiculopustules, nodules, and ulcers may also occur. Simultaneous occurrence of EN and SS has been increasingly reported, and both appear to be reactive dermatoses with overlapping clinical and histopathologic features. Although often idiopathic, both disorders have been associated with upper respiratory infections, medications, hematologic malignancies, and autoimmune disease (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease). Treatment includes corticosteroids, potassium iodide, or colchicine. SS generally responds well to therapy, but recurs in up to 25% of patients; 15% have a chronic relapsing course. Extensive evaluation was unrevealing, including chest and abdominal imaging, bone marrow biopsy, endoscopy, and serologies for hepatitis, syphilis, recent Streptococcal infection, and rheumatologic disorders. He responded well to oral prednisone. The underlying cause was presumed to be an antecedent upper respiratory tract infection.
Amyloid β-peptide decreases neuronal glucose uptake despite causing increase in GLUT3 mRNA transcription and GLUT3 translocation to the plasma membrane

Amyloid beta-peptide (Abeta) has been shown to impair glucose uptake in cultured hippocampal neurons and shortens their survival time. Abeta appears to inhibit neuronal glucose uptake by activating Gs-coupled receptors and the cAMP-PKA system. In this study, Abeta inhibition of neuronal glucose uptake was studied by assaying translocation of glucose transporter isoform GLUT3, transcription of GLUT3 mRNA, and fusion of GLUT3-containing vesicles with the plasma membrane. Cultured hippocampal neurons exposed to 10 microM Abeta25-35 or Abeta1-40 for 3 or 24 h showed a significant decrease in glucose uptake. To assess the regulatory role of Abeta on neuronal glucose uptake, translocation of GLUT3 from the cytosol to the plasma membrane was studied by the plasma membrane lawn assay and transcription of GLUT3 mRNA by in situ hybridization. In spite of a decrease in glucose uptake, Abeta25-35 and Abeta1-40 (10 microM) markedly promoted GLUT3 translocation to the plasma membrane by 30 min. Abeta25-35 also up-regulated transcription of GLUT3 mRNA by 12 h. High extracellular K(+) increased immunolabeling of the exofacial (i.e., extracellular) epitope of GLUT3 at the plasma membrane and Abeta25-35 inhibited this increase. Based on these data we propose that Abeta increases translocation of GLUT3-containing vesicles, but inhibits their fusion with the plasma membrane.
Essential arginyl residues in thymidylate synthetase.

Abstract Thymidylate synthetase from amethopterin-resistant Lactobacillus casei is rapidly and completely inactivated by 2,3-butanedione in borate buffer, a reagent that is highly selective for the modification of arginyl residues. The reversible inactivation follows pseudo-first order kinetics and is enhanced by borate buffer. dUMP and dTMP afford significant protection against inactivation while (±)-5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate and 7,8-dihydrofolate provide little protection. Unlike native enzyme, butanedione-modified thymidylate synthetase is incapable of interacting with 5-fluoro-2′-deoxyuridylate and 5,10-(+)-methylenetetrahydrofolate to form stable ternary complex. The results suggest that arginyl residues participate in the functional binding of dUMP.
Future directions in surgery for colorectal cancer: the evolving role of transanal endoscopic surgery

SUMMARY The morbidity associated with radical surgery for rectal cancer has launched a revolution in increasingly less-invasive methods of resection, including a recent resurgence in transanal endoscopic surgical approaches. The next evolution in transanal surgery for rectal cancer is natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery (NOTES). To date, 14 series of transanal NOTES total mesorectal excision (TME) for rectal cancer have been published (n = 76). Overall, the intraoperative and postoperative complication rates of 8 and 28%, respectively, compare favorably to those expected from laparoscopic and open TME. Short-term follow-up after NOTES TME has yielded no cancer recurrence in average-risk patients. High-risk patients have cancer recurrence rates similar to those after laparoscopic TME. Overall, these early data support transanal NOTES TME as a safe and viable alternative to conventional TME. Advances in instrumentation, surgical expertise and neoadjuvant treatment may expand current indications...
Improving the accuracy of wearable activity classifiers

Providing context awareness in wearables helps the user be more efficient in his tasks while being interrupted by the wearable device only when it is needed. In this work, we focus on one important aspect of context awareness in wearables which is activity classification. First, a wearable activity classifier is improved and applied to a medical application. Afterwards, more techniques are proposed that can be used to improve the results' accuracy of any activity classifier. Future research aims to incorporate more context awareness domains that can interact with and help wearable activity classifiers.
Use of genetically modified mouse models to assess pathways of benzene-induced bone marrow cytotoxicity and genotoxicity.

Abstract Benzene induces bone marrow cytotoxicity and chromosomal breaks as a primary mode of action for the induction of bone marrow toxicity. Our research group has used genetically modified mouse models to examine metabolic and genomic response pathways involved in benzene induced cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in bone marrow and in hematopoietic stem cells (HSC). We review our studies using NQO1−/− mice and mEH−/− mice to examine the roles of these enzymes, NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase-1 (NQO1) and microsomal epoxide hydrolase (mEH) in mediating benzene-induced toxicity. NQO1 catalyzes the detoxication of benzene quinone metabolites and mEH catalyzes the hydrolysis of benzene oxide. Our studies using gene expression profiling of bone marrow and enriched HSC populations isolated from the bone marrow of benzene-exposed mice demonstrate differential gene expression responses of key genes induced by inhaled benzene. These studies show that benzene toxicity is regulated by a number of genetic pathways that affect the production of reactive metabolites and DNA damage response pathways in a target tissue.
Chaperone Activity of Small Heat Shock Proteins Underlies Therapeutic Efficacy in Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis

To determine whether the therapeutic activity of αB crystallin, small heat shock protein B5 (HspB5), was shared with other human sHsps, a set of seven human family members, a mutant of HspB5 G120 known to exhibit reduced chaperone activity, and a mycobacterial sHsp were expressed and purified from bacteria. Each of the recombinant proteins was shown to be a functional chaperone, capable of inhibiting aggregation of denatured insulin with varying efficiency. When injected into mice at the peak of disease, they were all effective in reducing the paralysis in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Additional structure activity correlations between chaperone activity and therapeutic function were established when linear regions within HspB5 were examined. A single region, corresponding to residues 73–92 of HspB5, forms amyloid fibrils, exhibited chaperone activity, and was an effective therapeutic for encephalomyelitis. The linkage of the three activities was further established by demonstrating individual substitutions of critical hydrophobic amino acids in the peptide resulted in the loss of all of the functions.
Using dissatisfied customers as a source for innovative service ideas.

When service firms are challenged by their aging brands to become “innovation oriented,” they depend in part on key organizational competencies, such as employee competency and market orientation. These competencies are at the core of innovation in a service firm such as a hotel or a restaurant franchise. An innovation-oriented service franchise knows how to listen to its employees and customers; however, choosing which customer or employee to listen to might be paramount to finding radical innovative ideas. Learning from the past, this article investigates sources of innovation in the hospitality industry and tests the lead-user method borrowed from the manufacturing industry to extract innovative service ideas from the market before they materialize as competing market offerings. Using a downtown hotel as an empirical example, this study shows that not only are innovative service ideas present in the marketplace, but also that the best ideas most likely exist within the minds of current and past dissati...
INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERINGS: GOING BY THE BOOK

In the U.S., and increasingly in other countries as well, IPO securities are marketed to investors in a process known as “book-building”—one that amounts to polling institutional investors to establish a demand schedule for the issue and then allotting stock to individual investors according to the strength of their professed interest. Although book-building methods require use of discriminatory tactics that have attracted strong criticism from investors and regulators, this article defends such practices by demonstrating that book-building is more efficient than alternative methods. It effectively allows issuers to increase the net proceeds of their offerings by making better use of information about market demand conditions. In the process of explaining the efficiency of the book-building method, this article also offers a plausible explanation for a phenomenon that has long puzzled economists: the systematic underpricing of IPOs. The key to the success of a book-building effort lies in the use of a strategic pricing and allocation policy designed to offset the investor's incentive to understate his or her interest in an IPO. By committing to favor investors who provide strong indications of interest with relatively large allocations of underpriced shares, the investment bank can limit the distortion of investor's incentives in bidding and so increase the level of proceeds the issuing firm can expect to generate from its IPO.
A Psychophysical Approach to Image Quality

Whether an image is produced on a CRT display, a printer, or a photographic plate, that image can be described as a two-dimensional modulation of luminance and color across space. A psychophysical approach to image quality is one which considers the detectability and discriminability of these images in terms of the spatial, temporal, and color-sensitive mechanisms of perception. The aim is to develop a technology-independent method for characterizing and predicting image quality.
Large Eddy Simulation of Flow Transition in a Compressible Flat-Plate Boundary Layer at Mach 4.5

Large eddy simulation (LES) has been carried out to investigate the oblique transition process of a flat-plate boundary layer at a free-stream Mach number of M∞ = 4.5 and a Reynolds number of 10,000 based on the free-stream velocity and inflow displacement thickness. The numerical simulation is performed using a spatial approach to solve a full compressible Navier-Stokes system in the curvilinear coordinates. A compact sixth-order central difference scheme (Lele, 1992) is applied to the wall-normal direction and streamwise direction, the pseudo-spectral method is used in the spanwise direction. A compact storage third order Runge-Kutta scheme (Wray, 1986) is adopted for lime-integration. The sub-grid scales are formulated according to the filtered structure function model (Ducros et al., 1996). A pair of oblique first-mode perturbation is imposed on the inflow boundary. Several stages of transition process can be identified, i.e., the linear and weak nonlinear growth of disturbance, the appearance of stag...
Hydrocarbon Extraction into Surfactant Phase with Nonionic Surfactants. I. Influence of Phase Equilibria for Extraction Kinetics

Abstract The kinetics of absorption of decane into a “surfactant phase” in a oil-water-surfactant system capable of forming microemulsion was estimated by studying the relative changes in phase volumes when appropriate amounts of decane were brought into contact with an aqueous solution of tetraethylene glycol dodecyl ether at 30°C. The extraction rate was strongly retarded by the fact that the mass transfer path included a liquid crystalline phase. Extraction rate was obtained for a direct contact between the hydrocarbon with water and solubilized surfactant at a ratio which on equilibration produces the surfactant phase. This extraction path provides maximum solubilization of oil with minimum surfactant.
Time Modification and Variable Coding for Packet Transmission of Speech: Early Studies [DSP History]

This contribution to the history column of IEEE Signal Processing Magazine aims to give a selected sample of work and flavor of thinking in an era more than 30 years ago, when formative notions were being established and explored for packet transmission of speech. The exposition is parochial in that it relates to only one sector of activity; namely, that motivated by telecommunications research. Since that time, enormous advances have been made, technologies refined, methods modified, and capabilities expanded. The hope is that such a snapshot, albeit only from the author's perspective, contributes to expectations for the future.
Gain enhancement in microstrip patch antennas using ferrite rings

Summary form only given. Electromagnetic Band Gap (EBG) surfaces have been of intense interest in recent years given their ability to suppress the propagation of electromagnetic waves in a frequency band. This suppression of electromagnetic waves leads to an enhancement of the maximum gain when a microstrip patch antenna is placed above one of these surfaces. However, this comes at the expense of complexity of construction of the antennas, because many of these designs include a large number of vias. As an alternative, we are proposing a new design that uses a ferrite ring to enhance the antenna gain without compromising the antenna bandwidth. The proposed design forces constructive interference between the incident and reflected fields inside the substrate. The interference is created by introducing a ferrite ring at a distance d1 (d1 = ρ1 - a, a is the radius of the circular patch) from the circumference of the patch with a ring width d2 (d2 = ρ2 - ρ1). Initial values of d1 and d2 of one-quarter of the free-space wavelength (d1 = d2 = λ0/4) were selected. The ferrite is maintained unbiased with a relative permeability of μr2 = 14 and a relative permittivity of er2 = 10. Using HFSS, the results of the patch antenna above a conventional dielectric substrate (i.e., no ferrite ring) and above the proposed substrate (which includes the ferrite ring) were compared. The former is referred to as the conventional substrate and the latter (dielectric-ferrite) as the hybrid substrate. The design that uses the hybrid substrate achieves a maximum gain of 10.9 dB within the frequency range of 5.5 GHz to 6 GHz, with an average of 9.28 dB. On the other hand, the conventional substrate achieves a maximum of 6.37 dB in the same frequency range, and the average is only 4.4 dB. Clearly, the response of the propose hybrid substrate structure exhibits gain enhancement. Another important characteristic of microstrip patch antennas is the impedance bandwidth, which in most cases is reduced as the gain is increased. However, in the proposed configuration, it is not reduced but increased. A bandwidth of 8.62% is attained using the hybrid substrate, while only 6.7% is achieved for the conventional substrate (using S11 = -10 dB as a criterion to compute the bandwidth). Therefore, by using the new design, an enhancement of about 2% in the impedance bandwidth is achieved.
Nanobiosensors: probing the sanctuary of individual living cells.

Recently, nanotechnology has been revolutionizing important areas in molecular biology, especially diagnostics and therapy at the molecular and cellular level. The combination of nanotechnology, biology, and photonics opens the possibility of detecting and manipulating atoms and molecules using nanodevices, which have the potential for a wide variety of medical uses at the cellular level. The nanoprobes were fabricated with optical fibers pulled down to tips with distal ends having sizes of approximately 30-50 nm. The nanoscale size of this new class of sensors, allows for measurements in the smallest of environments. One such environment that has evoked a great deal of interest is that of individual cells. Using these nanobiosensors, it has become possible to probe individual chemical species in specific locations throughout a cell. This article provides an overview of the principle, development, and applications of optical nanosensor systems for in vivo bioanalysis at the single-cell level. The fiberoptics nanoprobes were covalently bound with antibodies that are selective to target analyte molecules. Excitation light is launched into the fiber and the resulting evanescent field at the tip of the fiber is used to excite target molecules bound to the antibody molecules. The fluorescence emission from the analyte molecules is then collected via a microscope. The usefulness and potential of this nanotechnology-based biosensor systems in biological research and applications in single-cell analysis are discussed.
Who Wants To Be Healthy

Games and simulalions can play an integral part of health education by creating a productive and enjoy­ able learning environment. Television and board games requiring various degrees of knowledge and skill can be adapted to present key health concepts, I to allow students to interact with and personalize health information, and to assess personal risk. 2 Within a game format, strategies include simulations creatbg real-life situations and experi­ ences in a non-threatening environment. By usi.ng games and simulations, "students must make decisions. solve problems, and react to the results of their decisions:") thus enhancing their personal and social competence.M(;reover, with technology at the forefront of educati.onal innovations, computer simulations of popular games are easy to create ,S and may be available for use in the classroom setting. For example, access http://www.abc.go.com/primetime/ millionaire/mill_home.html. Popular games such as "Jeopardy," "Family Feud," and "Wheel of Fortune" can be adapted to address one or more National Health Education Standards.' Depending on the game, key health concepts can be reinforced. Likewise, critical thinking, problem-solving, decision-making, and communication skills can be strengthened. In games requir­ ing teamwork, students as active participants can learn to work cooperatively. Games and simulations can clarify key concepts, increase student involvement, improve peer rela­ tionships, and increase motivation to learn. Health-related simulations can provide a realistic sense of where students stand as well as an authentic assessment of kjl0wledge and skill level. g,S Key to incorporating a game format with classroom instruction is its relevance to course and student objectives. Games and simulations must meet pre-identified instruc­ tional objectives and include clear directions, procedures, and rules so the game itself does not become an obstacle to learning. . . Objectives
Kernicterus as a ‘never-event’: A newborn safety standard?

Kernicterus, preventable in most cases but with untreatable and tragic sequelae, is a matter of public health concern that requires implementation of safer community healthcare standards to prevent its occurrence.
Development of Novel Irreversible Ligands

Abstract Alkylating affinity labels are reactive compounds that bind receptors in a covalent manner. This property makes them useful tools with which to study the structure and function of these important biological recognition molecules. To familiarize investigators with the use of these compounds, an overview of their general properties in terms of design, pharmacology, and chemistry is presented. In addition, some experimental approaches to characterizing their irreversible effects are described. Finally, several uses of alkylating affinity labels for the determination of a receptor reserve, receptor turnover, and studies on receptor structure are briefly outlined. important limitations with the use of these compounds are discussed, and examples focusing mainly on catecholamine receptors are given.
Basic research for future electric propulsion

It is pointed out that the evolution of electric propulsion over the past two and a half decades has been constrained by the interaction of three broad factors, including the physics and dynamics of the propellants, the dynamical and logistical requirements of the mission, and the technological realities of materials, power sources, and thermal management. A projection of the future of electric propulsion requires, therefore, a simultaneous reassessment of all three factors. Aspects of mission specification and power systems are discussed, and basic research needed for future electric propulsion applications is considered. Attention is given to electrostatic propulsion, electrothermal propulsion, electromagnetic propulsion, electrothermal/electromagnetic hybrids, novel concepts, and ancillary concerns.
How Do SLPs Improve Outcomes in Adults in Home Care

Home care agencies that have not employed speech—language pathologists (SLPs) may not be aware of their potential to advance other rehab and nursing goals for patients with communication, swallowing, and cognitive impairments. This article provides an overview of the professional requirements and scope of speech—language pathology practice. Quality reporting in health care and various organizations engaged in performance measurement are described. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s National Outcomes Measurement System has developed specific outcomes measures to track SLP intervention. Case studies illustrate how speech—language pathology services can enhance the effectiveness of other rehabilitation services and have an impact on hospital readmission, a primary quality measure in home care.
Experimental evidence that source genetic variation drives pathogen emergence

A pathogen can readily mutate to infect new host types, but this does not guarantee successful establishment in the new habitat. What factors, then, dictate emergence success? One possibility is that the pathogen population cannot sustain itself on the new host type (i.e. host is a sink), but migration from a source population allows adaptive sustainability and eventual emergence by delivering beneficial mutations sampled from the source's standing genetic variation. This idea is relevant regardless of whether the sink host is truly novel (host shift) or whether the sink is an existing or related, similar host population thriving under conditions unfavourable to pathogen persistence (range expansion). We predicted that sink adaptation should occur faster under range expansion than during a host shift owing to the effects of source genetic variation on pathogen adaptability in the sink. Under range expansion, source migration should benefit emergence in the sink because selection acting on source and sink populations is likely to be congruent. By contrast, during host shifts, source migration is likely to disrupt emergence in the sink owing to uncorrelated selection or performance tradeoffs across host types. We tested this hypothesis by evolving bacteriophage populations on novel host bacteria under sink conditions, while manipulating emergence via host shift versus range expansion. Controls examined sink adaptation when unevolved founding genotypes served as migrants. As predicted, adaptability was fastest under range expansion, and controls did not adapt. Large, similar and similarly timed increases in fitness were observed in the host-shift populations, despite declines in mean fitness of immigrants through time. These results suggest that source populations are the origin of mutations that drive adaptive emergence at the edge of a pathogen's ecological or geographical range.