cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Increased Effect of Interferon γ on PDGF-Induced c-fos Gene Transcription in Glomerular Mesangial Cells: Differential Effect of the Transcriptional Coactivator CBP on STAT1α Activation

We have previously shown that interferon γ (IFNγ) synergistically increases PDGF-induced DNA synthesis in mesangial cells. To examine the mechanism, we studied its effect on PDGF-induced c-fos gene transcription using a reporter mesangial cell in which firefly luciferase gene is driven by c-fos promoter. IFNγ significantly enhanced PDGF-induced c-fos transcription. We have shown previously that PDGF-induced c-fos transcription in mesangial cells is mediated by the ternary complex factor Elk-1. Using a GAL-4 DNA binding-domain-Elk-1 transactivation domain fusion protein-based reporter assay we showed that the increased effect of IFNγ was not mediated by Elk-1 transactivation. Gel mobility shift assay of lysates of mesangial cells treated with a combination of IFNγ and PDGF using sis-inducible DNA element (SIE) showed increased STAT1α-SIE complex formation as compared to the PDGF alone. To investigate the transcriptional consequences of this observation, stable reporter mesangial cells in which luciferase gene is driven by four copies of SIE was used. IFNγ and PDGF in combination significantly increased SIE-dependent transcription as compared to PDGF or IFNγ alone. Using an antibody in the gel mobility shift assay we showed that the PDGF-induced SIE-STAT1α complex recruited the transcriptional coactivator CBP. However, the STAT1α-SIE complex formed in the presence of IFNγ and PDGF did not contain CBP. Taken together, our data provide the first evidence that the synergistic effect of IFNγ on PDGF-induced DNA synthesis may be the result of increased c-fos gene transcription via SIE. This effect occurs in the presence of increased activation of STAT1α without recruitment of the transcriptional coactivator CBP.
Hausvater and Landesvater: Paternalism and Marriage Reform in Sixteenth-Century Germany

Long before Melanchthon and Erasmus drew their parallels, paternal and political authority had enjoyed a long and successful association in Greco-Roman thought. The apparent resurgence of this patriarchal metaphor in sixteenth-century European literature and polemic, however, has led some historians to suggest a more socially significant transformation in the actual legal or moral authority of one or both of these father figures. Beginning with the pioneering work of Phillippe Aries many historians of the family, particularly Lawrence Stone, have identified the sixteenth century as a time of greater paternal authority within the household and the beginning of the modern nuclear family throughout most of Europe. Others, expanding on references by Aries and Stone to a new state paternalism, have focused on the political half of the patriarchal analogy, especially the almost ubiquitous association among sixteenth-century German authors of the Hausvater (head of the household) with the Landesvater (political ruler). For most of these scholars, paternalistic language was a natural and even necessary component of the ambitious absolutist state-building of early modern Europe.
Critical surface free energies and universal finite-size scaling amplitudes of three-dimensional XY models by direct Monte Carlo sampling

Direct Monte Carlo sampling is employed to obtain estimates of excess surface free energies of three-dimensional XY models at criticality. Results for simple-cubic and body-centered-cubic lattices are consistent with universality of finite-size scaling amplitudes. The results are used to estimate the magnitude of the thinning effect, mediated by the incipient long-ranged correlations, on liquid-helium films at the \ensuremath{\lambda} point.
Productive Recognition of Factor IX by Factor XIa Exosites Requires Disulfide Linkage between Heavy and Light Chains of Factor XIa

In the intrinsic pathway of blood coagulation factor XIa (FXIa) activates factor IX (FIX) by cleaving the zymogen at Arg145-Ala146 and Arg180-Val181 bonds releasing an 11-kDa activation peptide. FXIa and its isolated light chain (FXIa-LC) cleave S-2366 at comparable rates, but FXIa-LC is a very poor activator of FIX, possibly because FIX undergoes allosteric modification on binding to an exosite on the heavy chain of FXIa (FXIa-HC) required for optimal cleavage rates of the two scissile bonds of FIX. However preincubation of FIX with a saturating concentration of isolated FXIa-HC did not result in any potentiation in the rate of FIX cleavage by FXIa-LC. Furthermore, if FIX binding via the heavy chain exosite of FXIa determines the affinity of the enzyme-substrate interaction, then the isolated FXIa-HC should inhibit the rate of FIX activation by depleting the substrate. However, whereas FXIa/S557A inhibited FIX activation of by FXIa, FXIa-HC did not. Therefore, we examined FIX binding to FXIa/S557A, FXIa-HC, FXIa-LC, FXIa/C362S/C482S, and FXIa/S557A/C362S/C482S. The heavy and light chains are disulfide-linked in FXIa/S557A but not in FXIa/C362S/C482S and FXIa/S557A/C362S/C482S. In an ELISA assay only FXI/S557A ligated FIX with high affinity. Partial reduction of FXIa/S557A to produce heavy and light chains resulted in decreased FIX binding, and this function was regained upon reformation of the disulfide linkage between the heavy and the light chains. We therefore conclude that substrate recognition by the FXIa exosite(s) requires disulfide-linked heavy and light chains.
Interkulturelles Lernen mit Fatih Akins Gegen die Wand (2004)

This article explores the didactic possibilities of Fatih Akin's Gegen die Wand (2004) at multiple levels in the German classroom, from beginning language courses to advanced seminars, with particular attention to the intercultural perspective promoted by the film's own aesthetic vision. Provocative and challenging, this film offers students more than a simple text for listening comprehension, rather an invitation to intercultural engagement, enhanced by emotionally loaded imagery and an eclectic musical soundtrack, all of which will ensure a high level of student motivation. As such, this film offers itself as an excellent resource for advancement of students' understanding of the German language as well as contemporary German culture. In the appendices, various lesson plan samples and exercises are offered that are de-signed to deepen students' lexical, grammatical, and cultural insights.
Extinction with 2MASS: Star Counts and Reddening toward the North America and Pelican Nebulae

We propose a general method for mapping the extinction in dense molecular clouds using Two Micron All Sky Survey near-infrared data. The technique is based on the simultaneous utilization of star counts and colors. These two techniques provide independent estimations of the extinction, and each method reacts differently to foreground star contamination and to star clustering. We take advantage of both methods to build a large-scale extinction map (25 × 25) of the North America and Pelican Nebulae complex. With Ks star counts and H-Ks color analysis the visual extinction is mapped up to 35 mag. Regions with visual extinction greater than 20 mag account for less than 3% of the total mass of the cloud. Color is generally a better estimator for the extinction than star counts. Nine star clusters are identified in the area, seven of which were previously unknown.
Effect of substrate size on immunoinhibition of amylase activity

Immunoinhibition assays are hypothesized to work by antibodies blocking substrate access to enzyme active sites. To test this hypothesis, the inhibition of amylase isoenzymes by monoclonal and polyclonal antisera was assessed using substrates of varying sizes: chromogenic sustrates 3, 5, or 7 glucose units in length, novel synthetic macromolecular substrates, and starch. The synthetic macromolecular substrates consisted of small oligosaccharide substrates linked to an inert polymer that conferred a large size to substrate molecules as determined by gel filtration chromatography. When substrate size increased, amylase activity could be inhibited equivalently by antibody concentrations that are 10hfold lower. Progressively less polyclonal serum was required to inhibit amylase activity as substrate length increased from 3 to 5 to 7 glucose units and as size was increased by linkage to a polymer. Different effects of substrate size were observed with two monoclonal antibodies. One monoclonal antibody blocked amylase activity independent of substrate size, while another monoclonal antibody had little inhibitory effect except using starch as substrate. We conclude that use of larger substrates can expand the repertoire of inhibitory epitopes on enzymes and convert a noninhibitory antibody into an inhibitory one. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 15:64–70, 2001.
The Science and Practice of Micronutrient Supplementations in Nutritional Anemia: An Evidence-Based Review

Nutritional anemia is the most common type of anemia, affecting millions of people in all age groups worldwide. While inadequate access to food and nutrients can lead to anemia, patients with certain health status or medical conditions are also at increased risk of developing nutritional anemia. Iron, cobalamin, and folate are the most recognized micronutrients that are vital for the generation of erythrocytes. Iron deficiency is associated with insufficient production of hemoglobin. Deficiency of cobalamin or folate leads to impaired synthesis of deoxyribonucleic acid, proteins, and cell division. Recent research has demonstrated that the status of copper and zinc in the body can significantly affect iron absorption and utilization. With an increasing number of patients undergoing bariatric surgical procedures, more cases of anemia associated with copper and zinc deficiencies have also emerged. The intestinal absorption of these 5 critical micronutrients are highly regulated and mediated by specific apical transport mechanisms in the enterocytes. Health conditions that persistently alter the histology of the upper intestinal architecture, expression, or function of these substrate-specific transporters, or the normal digestion and flow of these key micronutrients, can lead to nutritional anemia. The focus of this article is to review the science of intestinal micronutrient absorption, discuss the clinical assessment of micronutrient deficiencies in relation to anemia, and suggest an effective treatment plan and monitoring strategies using an evidence-based approach.
Introducing parallel processing at the undergraduate level

With multiprocessor computers becoming more readily available on college campuses and with the recent development of software tools to aid in the implementation of parallel algorithms, it is time for parallel processing to enter the undergraduate curriculum. In this paper we show how widely available tools combined with concepts learned in an operating systems course could be used to develop an upper level undergraduate course in parallel processing. A typical artificial intelligence search problem (N-queens) is implemented in C and exhibits almost linear speedups.
Electrospinning an essential oil: cinnamaldehyde enhances the antimicrobial efficacy of chitosan/poly(ethylene oxide) nanofibers.

Abstract Due to the persistent spread of antibiotic resistance, commercial antibiotic treatments are proving ineffective. Cinnamaldehyde (CA), a volatile essential oil, eradicates pathogens non-specifically. However, the ability to incorporate essential oils into nanofiber mats has not yet been demonstrated, and, only six studies have electrospun two immiscible phases. Here, CA (0.5 and 5.0%) was incorporated into chitosan/poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) solutions that were successfully electrospun into mats with ∼50 nm fiber diameters. Solid-state NMR results corroborated with release studies wherein the 5.0% CA mats released a statistically higher amount of CA-liquid (545% more) and CA-vapor (279% more) than the 0.5% CA mats. In time dependent cytotoxicity studies, the intrinsic antibacterial activity of chitosan along with the quick release of CA enabled high inactivation rates against Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa . For the first time we have demonstrated chitosan/CA/PEO nanofiber mats can serve as CA delivery vehicles that potentially eradicate pseudomonas infections.
Representation as agency and the Pork Barrel Paradox

Among the quirks of Congress that have exercised scholars, one of the most puzzling is universalism, the tendency of distributive legislation to command unanimous or near unanimous majorities.1 Such legislation uses general revenues to finance water projects, rent subsides, school construction, or other separate benefits for the constituencies of the winning majority to bake a pie and distribute slices to the bakers' households. Unanimity on any issue would be remarkable enough: in the House, the unanimous majority is one of 2434 possible majorities, and those of 90 percent or more are fewer than 4.10-17 of that total. Winning majorities are not random, of course. Often they are partisan (Weisberg, 1978), as well they might be in a body elected and organized by party label. Yet the majority party embraces the opposition on distributive issues. When not acting as party animals, congressmen sometimes form regional, sectoral, and other cross-cutting coalitions (Schattschneider, 1942), which they can expand by vote trading. Once a majority is reached, however, there is no evident reason to keep expanding. Occasionally, I like to think, congressmen act as Burkean trustees, sacrificing partisan and parochial interests for the wider public interest. Then one might expect unanimity or something close, but not distributive legislation. More frequently, perhaps, congressmen act as Burkean delegates, promoting the interests of their several constituencies (Mayhew, 1974), party and public be damned. Then one expects a bounty of distributive legislation, but nothing like unanimity. Then, predicts Riker's Size Principle, distributive issues should be decided by particularly small majorities: each of few households can'have a bigger slice of pie than each of many.2
Cloning of non-human primates: the road "less traveled by"

Early studies on cloning of non-human primates by nuclear transfer utilized embryonic blastomeres from preimplantation embryos which resulted in the reproducible birth of live offspring. Soon after, the focus shifted to employing somatic cells as a source of donor nuclei (somatic cell nuclear transfer, SCNT). However, initial efforts were plagued with inefficient nuclear reprogramming and poor embryonic development when standard SCNT methods were utilized. Implementation of several key SCNT modifications was critical to overcome these problems. In particular, a non-invasive method of visualizing the metaphase chromosomes during enucleation was developed to preserve the reprogramming capacity of monkey oocytes. These modifications dramatically improved the efficiency of SCNT, yielding high blastocyst development in vitro. To date, SCNT has been successfully used to derive pluripotent embryonic stem cells (ESCs) from adult monkey skin fibroblasts. These remarkable advances have the potential for development of human autologous ESCs and cures for many human diseases. Reproductive cloning of nonhuman primates by SCNT has not been achieved yet. We have been able to establish several pregnancies with SCNT embryos which, so far, did not progress to term. In this review, we summarize the approaches, obstacles and accomplishments of SCNT in a non-human primate model.
Experiments on Bose-Einstein Condensates in Synthetic Spin-Orbit and Gauge Fields: Transport and Dynamics

I will discuss our experiments on Bose-Einstein condensates (BEC) subject to optically-generated synthetic gauge fields and spin-orbit (SO) coupling, focusing on the dynamics and transport of BEC in spin-orbit dressed bands.
Benthic detritus dynamics in a mountain stream

The dynamics of sedimentary detritus was examined over a 17-month period in a third-order mountain stream in Colorado. Autumnal and vernal peaks in total detritus standing crop (197 g and 165 g AFDW m−2, respectively) were associated with leaf abscission and ice out. The flushing action of snowmelt runoff rapidly reduced benthic detritus to 14 g AFDW m−2. Detrital size classes differentially contributed to temporal fluctuations in total detritus. The autumnal maximum was largely comprised of coarse particulate organic matter (CPOM), primarily leaf litter. The large increase following ice out was mainly due to fine detritus (FPOM, 0.45–75 μm) which accounted for > 50% of benthic detritus during 9 months of the year. Evidence suggests that changes in standing crop and particle size distribution during the extended period of ice cover (November-March) resulted from in situ processing rather than transport. Despite major differences in climate, geochemistry and hydrology, the Colorado stream exhibited patterns of detrital dynamics remarkably similar to an eastern deciduous forest stream.
Hydrometeor Profile Characterization Method for Dual-Frequency Precipitation Radar Onboard the GPM

Profile classification is a critical module in the microphysics retrieval algorithm for the dual-frequency precipitation radar (DPR) that will be onboard the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) Core satellite. Hydrometeor profile characterization (HPC or melting region detection) is an important part of profile classification. To accomplish this classification, characteristics of measured dual-frequency ratio DFRm, defined as the difference between measured reflectivity at two frequency channels (Ku- and Ka-bands), were studied for different hydrometeor phases. This paper shows that a DFRm profile can be used to detect the frozen, mixed-phase, and liquid regions. An HPC model is developed in this paper for DPR profile classification using DFRm and its range variability along the height. Data collected by the Second Generation Airborne Precipitation Radar (APR-2) in NASA African Monsoon Multidisciplinary Analysis, Genesis and Rapid Intensification Processes, and Wakasa Bay campaigns are employed in model validation. Signatures of Doppler velocity, as well as the linear depolarization ratio at Ku-band, available for APR-2 data, are used for cross-validation purpose. Comparison of the melting layer top and bottom between the HPC model and the velocity-based estimates shows that they compare well, with a 2% bias. The performance of the HPC method at GPM-DPR observation resolution is evaluated and is shown to be applicable to observation at GPM-DPR resolution. It can be inferred from the analysis presented that the methodology developed in this paper using DFRm is a good candidate for HPC for GPM-DPR.
Quality of life: A patient-centered outcome

V ICTOR FRANKL, psychiatrist, concentration camp survivor, and author of Man's Search for Meaning, often quoted Nietzsche: "Those who have a 'WHY' to live will put up with almost any 'HOW'." Frankl came to this conclusion after listening to the answer to the question he asked many of his fellow inmates, who, like himself, had endured privations, indignities, and horrors: "Why is it that you do not commit suicide?" One had a daughter with a future that could be bright; another had a manuscript to publish; yet another had a loving family to whom to return. When another camp was liberated, the following astonishing prayer was found, written in a child's handwriting: "Oh Lord, when our captors come to judgment, consider not only the evil they have done, but also the good we have found in our imprisonment--the courage, the patience, the friendship, the appreciation of simple acts of kindness, the generosity of spirit, the love-and let those things be their forgiveness," If these persons could find hope for the future, or could even find meaning in lives that had little hope of a future, is it so surprising that patients with disabilities can find quality of life in the midst of their limitations, not only in spite of their limitations but, dare I say it, sometimes even because of their limitations? What is quality of life? This question has been addressed systematically for at least three decades and asked and answered by lovers of wisdom for millennia. It is related to health, wholeness, holiness, and harmony with all people. As the psalmist says (Psalm 133): "How good it is for brethren to dwell together in harmony! Like oil upon the head-l ike much fine oil running down Aaron's beard! It is like the dew of Mount Hermon in the Land of Zion!" The ancient Greeks and Romans sought health and harmony of body and mind. Their motto, "Mens sana in corpore sano" (a sound mind in a sound body), was not so much a statement of fact as a goal to be attained. The 16th century author, Andrew Boorde, inscribed the following motto on his Breviary of Healthe (1546): "Myrrh is One of the Chiefest Things in Physicke." Not unduly constrained by the rigors of the Carthusian monastery to which he belonged, be went on to say: "There is nothing that doth comfort the heart so much, beside God, as honest mirth and good company. A merry heart and mind, the which is in rest and quietness, without adversity and too much worldly business, canseth a man to live long, and to look youngly, although he be aged. Care and sorrow bringeth in age and death, wherefore let every man be merry; and, if he can not, let him resort to merry company to break of his perplexities." In a 1978 report titled, "A Research Approach to Improving
Poly(dimethylsiloxane) Microchip Electrophoresis with Contactless Conductivity Detection for Measurement of Chemical Warfare Agent Degradation Products

Abstract The applicability of a poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) microfluidic device with contactless conductivity detection for the determination of organophosphonate nerve agent degradation products is reported. Five alkyl methylphosphonic acids, isopropyl methylphosphonic acid (IMPA), pinacolyl methylphosphonic acid (PMPA), O‐ethyl‐N,N‐dimethyl phosphoramidate (EDPA), ethyl methylphosphonic acid (EMPA), and methylphosphonic acid (MPA), (degradation products of Sarin, Soman, Tuban and VX nerve agents) were analyzed by microchip capillary electrophoresis. Experimental conditions for the separation and detection processes have been optimized to yield well‐defined separation and high sensitivity. Under optimal conditions, analyses were completed in less than 2 min. Linear relations between concentration and peak heights were obtained with detection limits in the 1.3–4.5 mg/l range and precision values for the peak heights were in the range of 3.4–6.1% RSD. Applicability of this method for natural (lake and ta...
Physiological effects of an allozyme polymorphism: Glutamate-pyruvate transaminase and response to hyperosmotic stress in the copepod Tigriopus californicus

In order to regulate cell volume during hyperosmotic stress, the intertidal copepod Tigriopus californicus, like other aquatic crustaceans, rapidly accumulates high levels of intracellular alanine, proline, and glycine. Glutamate-pyruvate transaminase (GPT; EC 2.6.1.2), which catalyzes the final step of alanine synthesis, is genetically polymorphic in T. californicus populations at Santa Cruz, California. Spectrophotometric studies of homogenates derived from a homozygous isofemale line of each of the two common GPT alleles indicated that the GPTF allozyme has a significantly higher specific activity than the GPTS allozyme. Under conditions of hyperosmotic stress, individual adult copepods of GPTF and GPTF/S genotypes accumulated alanine, but not glycine or proline, more rapidly than GPTS homozygotes. When young larvae were subjected to the same hyperosmotic conditions, GPTS larvae suffered a significantly higher mortality than GPTF or GPTF/S larvae. These results suggest that the biochemical differences among GPT allozymes result in specific physiological variation among GPT genotypes and that this physiological variation is manifested in differential genotypic survivorships under some naturally occurring environmental conditions.
Emerging patterns of multinational enterprise operations in developed market economies: evidence and policy

In their attempt to adapt to the extreme flexibility requirements of the current international competitive environment multinational enterprises have enriched their menu of means for international expansion with many forms of minority equity investments and nonequity interfirm alliances. The rapid proliferation of these new means of international operation has opened a Pandora's box for governments; the increased internationalization of business in a large number of manufacturing industries has certainly decreased the possibilities for the successful implementation of strictly internally focused economic policies. The fact that this internationalization is a bottom-up procedure (firms reacting to market conditions) and that its causes seem only to be intensifying in the foreseeable future has conviced governments of developed market economies to accept the resulting global interdependence as a rather permanent feature of international competition and try to accomodate national priorities accordingly. Econ...
Programmable Optical Processor For Associative Retrieval

A programmable optical associative memory for two-dimensional image retrieval is described. Both the stored image and the input image are displayed spatially; therefore, they can be updated in real time more conveniently. The integral product between the input image and the stored images is obtained by nonlinear correlation technique which has a superior performance compared with the conventional optical correlation techniques in the areas of the light efficiency and the correlation signal quality. Thus, better quality images can be reconstructed and the need for optical gain and the optical feedback may be eliminated. There are small losses in the system since no halograms are employed.
Anab initio pair potential for the interaction between a water molecule and a formate ion

The potential surface for the interaction between a rigid formate ion and a rigid water molecule has been investigated byab initio methods. An analytical potential expression was derived to fit the 591 calculated SCF energies. The global minimum on the surface is −16.3 kcal/mol and corresponds to a bifurcated bonding situation.
Pre-existing cardiovascular conditions and pharmacological treatment of adult ADHD.

Background Stimulants and atomoxetine should generally not be used or used only with caution in adults with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions. The extent to which pre-existing cardiovascular conditions influence initiation of these ADHD medications in adults is not known. Methods We performed a retrospective cohort study of privately insured adults with new ADHD treatment episodes. Pre-existing cardiovascular conditions were assessed by the presence of ICD-9-CM codes for congenital abnormalities, atherosclerosis, cardiac disease, and cerebrovascular disease in the 12 months before the index ADHD diagnosis. The primary outcome was new initiation of a stimulant or atomoxetine in the 3 months after the index date. Multivariate logistic regression was used to predict the likelihood of treatment initiation with stimulants or atomoxetine based on pre-existing cardiovascular conditions, patient demographic characteristics, clinical mental disorder comorbidities, other psychotropic drug use, and provider type. Results Of 8752 patients with a new ADHD treatment episode, 917 (10.5%) had evidence of ≥1 pre-existing cardiovascular condition. Stimulants were started by 40.8% of patients with and 53.0% of patients without pre-existing cardiovascular conditions (Adjusted Odds Ratio, AOR 0.71; 95%CI 0.61–0.82). Pre-existing cardiovascular conditions reduced the likelihood of initiating stimulant treatment in younger but not in older patients (p-value for age × cardiovascular condition interaction = 0.0002). Initiation of atomoxetine treatment was not affected by pre-existing cardiovascular conditions (AOR 1.19, 95%CI 0.94–1.50). Conclusions Pre-existing cardiovascular conditions reduce the likelihood of stimulant therapy but not atomoxetine treatment in adult ADHD patients. However, many adult ADHD patients with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions initiate stimulant therapy. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Continuous exposure to noisy work environments does affect preferred leisure noise levels

Abstract Although noise research concentrates principally on the workplace, recent studies have shown that preferred leisure noise may be as loud as 10 dBA higher than workplace levels. This two-phase study compared leisure noise preferences for workers who were exposed to either a ‘loud’ (≥ 85 dBA) or ‘not loud’ (
Over-inhibition: a model for developmental intellectual disability

Developmental intellectual disability (DID) is a daunting societal problem. Although tremendous progress has been made in defining the genetic causes of DID, therapeutic strategies remain limited. In particular, there is a marked absence of a unified approach to treating cognitive impairments associated with DID. Here, we suggest that the brain in many DID-related disorders is subject to a basic imbalance in neuronal activity, with an increased contribution of inhibition to neural circuits. This over-inhibition, in turn, is predicted to lead to deficits in synaptic plasticity and learning and memory. We further discuss possibilities for pharmacological intervention in DID, focusing on the concept of drug-induced 'therapeutic neuroadaptation' as a means of stably enhancing constitutive circuit excitability and cognition over time.
A new computer-based self-correcting calibration system for computer storage media

Abstract A new method for calibrating magnetic computer storage media Standard Reference Materials (SRMs) has been developed at the National Bureau of Standards (NBS). This calibration system applies to a new class of higher density Standard Reference Magnetic Computer Storage Media. The foundation of this method is based on both the analysis of and experience with the present well-established SRM calibration systems. Errors that would be introduced into the calibration process by unwanted system changes are prevented from doing so through the use of self-correcting techniques. The data which are automatically produced by these techniques also simplify the calibration process. The outputs from this new calibration method provide the users of these high density Standard Reference Materials with information which is easily related to the Master Reference media saturation curve. The development of magnetic computer storage media Standard Reference Materials (SRMs) is also described.
Mechanisms of chromium-induced suppression of RNA synthesis in cellular and cell-free systems: relationship to RNA polymerase arrest.

Chromium(VI) (Cr(VI)) can suppress both DNA replication and transcription as a result of chromium (Cr)-induced DNA damage. While progress has been made in the characterization of Cr-induced DNA polymerase arresting lesions, very little information is available on the inhibition of transcription by this metal. The aim of the present study was to identify the molecular mechanisms involved in the reduction of RNA synthesis by Cr. Following treatment with a moderately cytotoxic dose (~ LC50) of Cr(VI) (150 μM for 2 h), total RNA synthesis was initially suppressed in CHO cells and recovered to control levels within 72 h post-treatment. In vitro nuclear run-on transcription assays of nuclei isolated from Cr(VI)-treated cells showed a similar amount of RNA synthesis suppression as observed in intact cells. Qualitative analysis of nascent transcripts revealed a general, concentration-dependent reduction in size suggesting that transcriptional elongation was inhibited following Cr-treatment. Transcriptional initiation in these nuclei was also reduced. To better determine whether transcriptional suppression was related to Cr-induced DNA damage we examined the transcriptional activity of T7 RNA polymerase on Cr(III)-treated plasmid DNA. Treatment of pGEM3Z-TS DNA with Cr(III) resulted in transcriptional arrest which occurred primarily at GC-rich and palindromic regions. However, in contrast to the cellular data, transcriptional initiation was unaffected in the in vitro transcription arrest assays. Taken together, these results suggest that the suppression of RNA synthesis by Cr is related to chromium-induced template DNA damage which prevents elongation leading to premature RNA polymerase arrest.
Higgs boson mass bounds in seesaw extended standard model with non-minimal gravitational coupling

Abstract In the presence of non-minimal gravitational coupling ξ H † H R between the standard model (SM) Higgs doublet H and the curvature scalar R , the effective ultraviolet cutoff scale is given by Λ ≈ m P / ξ , where m P is the reduced Planck mass, and ξ ≳ 1 is a dimensionless coupling constant. In type I and type III seesaw extended SM, which can naturally explain the observed solar and atmospheric neutrino oscillations, we investigate the implications of this non-minimal gravitational coupling for the SM Higgs boson mass bounds based on vacuum stability and perturbativity arguments. A lower bound on the Higgs boson mass close to 120 GeV is realized with type III seesaw and ξ ∼ 10 – 10 3 .
A murine model system for contact sensitization to poison oak or ivy urushiol components.

Abstract A murine model of contact sensitization to components of poison oak or ivy urushiol oils was developed. Sensitization was effected by painting such compounds on abdominal skin, and was routinely assessed by challenging on the ears and monitoring increases in ear thickness. Sensitization to 3-heptadecylcatechol (HDC, a component of poison oak urushiol) was studied in detail. Contact sensitivity as indicated by ear swelling reactions was observed from 2 until around 25 days after primary abdominal painting with HDC. In all cases maximal ear swelling occurred 3–4 days after HDC challenge. Sensitivity could also be assessed by monitoring the uptake of radioiodinated deoxyuridine at the ear challenge site, and this correlated with the ear swelling assay in terms of kinetics. The sensitization effect induced by HDC had properties of delayed-type hypersensitivity, being antigen specific, and transferable with sensitized lymph node and spleen cells but not by serum. Also, T cells were required for activity as transfer with spleen cells was abrogated by treatment with anti-Thy-1.2 antibody and complement. In this system HDC and 3-pentadecylcatechol (PDC, a component of poison ivy urushiol oil) were completely cross-reactive both in sensitization and challenge, and both compounds also cross-reacted with native urushiol oil itself. Thus murine sensitization to HDC can be used as a model system for investigating mechanisms for the immunogenicity of such catechols.
The link between lymphedema, breast reconstruction and microsurgery

SUMMARY This management perspective will explore the relationship between lymphedema and breast reconstruction surgery. Little data exist, but early reports suggest breast reconstruction may be associated with a lower risk of lymphedema. Theories surrounding this relationship, as well as available data on lymphatic repair theories, will be discussed. In addition, the emerging role of lymphatic surgery to prevent or reverse lymphedema will be discussed. The refinement of advanced microsurgical techniques has resulted in a renewed interest in lymphatic surgery to cure lymphedema. However, efficacy, validation of surgical results, and surgery's ability to eliminate from patients the need for daily compression garments and therapy need further study.
Migration, risk aversion, and regional differentiation.

The main purpose of the present essay is to gain insight into the problem of regional differentiation when the characteristic undergoing spatial selection is some measure of risk aversion. There are several reasons for studying risk aversion in this context. First many studies since the discoveries by Arrow and Pratt of operational measures of risk aversion have demonstrated the importance of an individuals degree of risk aversion as a determinant of economic behavior in a wide variety of contexts. An immediate implication of these studies is that regional variations in the distribution of risk averseness in the population should lead to regional variation in many economic characteristics such as the propensities to save to carry insurance and to seek information; the relative and absolute quantities of agricultural outputs; the structure and outputs of industrial activities; the structure of financial activities; and even the occupational composition of the population. (excerpt)
A lithography workcell monitoring and modeling scheme

Abstract The goal of this work is to improve the precision of a photolithography sequence by monitoring, modeling and controlling the steps of resist application, exposure and development. The monitoring scheme is based on the in-line measurement of photoresist thickness and on the inference of photoactive compound concentration. This concentration is inferred by measuring the reflectance of the resist film. To decouple the dependence of reflectance from film thickness variations, we developed a novel method which employs a variable measurement wavelength. In addition to monitoring, we empirically model the photolithography equipment with the help of statistically designed experiments. The resulting models are accurate, simple, and can be easily updated to reflect equipment aging. These monitoring and modeling schemes are the basis of our workcell diagnosis and process control strategy.
Greater Preference among Females Than Males for Dyadic Interaction in Early Childhood

The present study was designed to examine sex differences in children's preferences for dyadic and group interaction in early childhood. In Study 1, a professional puppeteer interacted with 21 females and 20 males 4 and 5 years of age using 1 (dyad) and 3 (group) puppets in a within-subjects design. Enjoyment of the 2 conditions was assessed through frequency of smiling and eye contact. In addition, sociometric techniques were used to measure the size of children's play networks, and observations of naturally occurring dyadic and group interaction were conducted. Study 2 was a replication of the puppet play procedure used in Study 1 with 38 females and 37 males 3 and 4 years of age. In both studies, females were found to enjoy dyadic interaction more than males. In addition, some evidence suggests that males may enjoy group interaction more than females. Results are discussed in terms of theoretical explanations for sex differences in preferences for interaction with differing numbers of peers.
The glutathione S-transferases as a possible detoxification system of rat intestinal epithelium.

Abstract Because the glutathione S-transferases perform a detoxification function in liver and kidney, evidence for them was sought in the intestine, another major site of contact with xenobiotics. The range of activity with several different substrates was similar to that of liver: highest activity was observed with 1-chioro-2,4-dinitrobenzene. Antibodies prepared against homogeneous rat liver transfer-ases A, B, and E gave lines of identity with cytosol obtained from intestinal epithelial cells. With 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene as substrate a shallow gradient of increasing activity was observed from crypt to tip cells of jejunal epithelium. In cells at all stages of maturation, activity was increased in response to phenobarbital whereas alkaline phosphatase, thymidine kinase and γ-glutamyltranspeptidase were not induced. Activity was greatest in the duodenum and jejunum, and lowest in the colon and stomach. The data arc consistent with a detoxification role for the glutathione S-transferases in intestine.
A closed-loop control based braking resistor for stabilization of wind generator system

Conventional braking resistor (BR) method employing a fixed insertion period does not work well to stabilize the wind generator system for different types of faults. This paper proposes a closed-loop control strategy of the braking resistor based on thyristor technology to stabilize the wind generator system. The performance of the proposed braking resistor is evaluated in detail considering both balanced and unbalanced types of temporary and permanent faults in the system. A comparison is made between the performance of the proposed braking resistor and that of the conventional braking resistor employing a fixed insertion period. Simulation results show that the proposed braking resistor is very effective to stabilize the wind generator system in case of both balanced and unbalanced types of transient and permanent faults. Also, the performance of the proposed braking resistor method is much better than that of the conventional method.
A stereotaxic map of brainstem areas critical for locomotor responses in a novel environment

Latency to locomote from an illuminated compartment into a dark compartment was recorded in brain-damaged and control rats. The distribution of lesions sustained by those rats failing to enter the dark compartment within 10 min was plotted on the Massopust atlas. Clearly represented within the resulting map were those brainstem areas occupied by nigro-striatal and pallidofugal pathways.
Effect of process parameters on the electropolymerization potential and rate of formation of polypyrrole on stainless steel

Polypyrrole coatings were formed on stainless steel working electrodes in aqueous oxalic acid solution. The rate of formation of polypyrrole coatings on stainless steel increased proportionately with the current density but increased slightly with increased pyrrole concentration. Increasing oxalic acid concentration also had no significant change in the polymerization rate. The electropolymerization potential of pyrrole decreased significantly from 1.5 to 0.8 V versus SCE when the working electrode was polished. The polymerization potential, Ep, of pyrrole, increased however, with increased current density and decreased exponentially with the initial monomer and electrolyte concentration, respectively. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 66: 2433–2440, 1997
Measurement oftrans and other isomeric unsaturated fatty acids in butterand margarine

A procedure is described for gas liquid chromatographic determination of cis andtrans isomers of unsaturated fatty acids after fractionation of the saturated, monenoic, dienoic, and polyenoic fatty acid methyl esters by argentation thin layer chromatography. To test its reliability, the procedure was used for quantitative measurement of transisomers of unsaturated fatty acids in a known mixture of simple triglycerides containing saturated fatty acids from 4:0 to 24:0 andcis andtrans isomers of 14:1. 16:1, 18:1, and 18:2. Results of the analyses of five margarine and five butter samples are presented, together with results of infrared spectrophotometric analyses fortrans fatty acid concentrations, ultraviolet spectrophotometric analyses for conjugated fatty acid concentrations, and enzymatic analyses forcis-cis-methylene interrupted fatty acid concentrations. The combined argentation thin layer and gas Chromatographic procedure is suitable for determination of the principal fatty acids in complex food lipids such as milk fat.
Solid-state DNA sizing by atomic force microscopy.

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) allows rapid, accurate, and reproducible visualization of DNA adsorbed onto solid supports. The images reflect the lengths of the DNA molecules in the sample. Here we propose a solid-state DNA sizing (SSDS) method based on AFM as an analytical method for high-throughput applications such as fingerprinting, restriction mapping, +/− screening, and genotyping. For this process, the sample is first deposited onto a solid support by adsorption from solution. It is then dried and imaged under ambient conditions by AFM. The resulting images are subjected to automated determination of the lengths of the DNA molecules on the surface. The result is a histogram of sizes that is similar to densitometric scans of DNA samples separated on gels. A direct comparison of SSDS with agarose gel electrophoresis for +/− screening shows that it produces equivalent results. Advantages of SSDS include reduced sample size (i.e., lower reagent costs), rapid analysis of single samples, and potential for...
Seizures following subclavian-carotid bypass.

Abstract Seizures are uncommon after carotid endarterectomy. Patients at greatest risk for having this complication are those with high-grade carotid stenosis and possibly those with recent stroke or severe hypertension. The most favored theory regarding the pathophysiology is hyperperfusion caused by failure of cerebral autoregulation. This article describes our experience with the management of a patient suffering focal motor seizures after subclavian-carotid bypass performed to treat common carotid occlusion. (J VASC SURG 1987;5:483-5.)
Evaluation and Management of Urgency and Urge Urinary Incontinence in Men

The overactive bladder (OAB) syndrome is increasingly being recognized as a major contributor to the lower urinary tract symptoms in men previously thought to be only due to bladder outlet obstruction from benign prostatic hyperplasia. Medical and surgical treatments that have historically been used to treat women with OAB are being applied to men with great efficacy and a good safety profile. Additionally, treatments such as the β-3 agonist mirabegron, phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, sacral and peripheral neuromodulation, and intravesical botulinum toxin injection are promising emerging therapies for the OAB syndrome. This review discusses the evaluation of the male patient with OAB symptoms such as urgency and urge incontinence, and explores the different therapeutic options available for management of men with OAB.
P-aminophenol Fluorescence and determination in the Presence of Acetaminophen

The spectrophotometric and fluorometric properties of the aminophenols and of several compounds related to p-aminophenol were examined. A direct spectrofluorometric method for p-aminophenol determination at trace levels in methanol was developed and evaluated for the effect of inner filtering by acetaminophen. The method was applied to the determination of p-aminophenol as an impurity in acetaminophen and acetaminophen-containing tablets.
An Interview Protocol and Scoring Rubric for Evaluating Teacher Performance

This paper introduces an interview protocol, administration procedures, and scoring rubric for evaluating teacher performance. Procedures used to develop and adminis ter the protocol and scoring rubric and subsequent validity and reliability studies are reported. All evidence suggests that the protocol and scoring rubric are aligned with professional standards and focus on a teacher's assessment of and ability to modify instruction to improve student learning. These findings support the viability of the interview protocol as an effective method of evaluating teacher performance.
Immortalized dopamine neurons: A model to study neurotoxicity and neuroprotection.

6-Hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) causes selective degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the rat brain and has been used to produce an animal model of Parkinsonism. Recently, a clonal line of immortalized dopamine (DA) neurons (1RB3AN27), which expresses varying levels of tyrosine hydroxylase, dopamine transporter, neuron specific enolase, and nestin, was established. These DA neurons reduce behavioral deficits in 6-OHDA-lesioned rats. The relative sensitivity of fetal and adult neurons to potential neurotoxins is not well defined. The availability of immortalized DA neurons provides a unique opportunity to compare the relative neurotoxicity of 6-OHDA in differentiated and undifferentiated DA neurons In vitro and identify neuroprotective agents. Our results showed that 6-OHDA treatment for 24 hr decreased the viability of undifferentiated and differentiated immortalized DA neurons in vitro, as determined by the MTT assay, and increased the rate of apoptosis in differentiated DA neurons. The differentiated DA n...
The clinical effects of music therapy in palliative medicine

Goal This study was to objectively assess the effect of music therapy on patients with advanced disease.