cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Autosomal dominant Parkinson's disease

Over the past two decades the understanding and classification of Parkinson's disease (PD) has been revolutionized by genetic research. Currently, sixteen PARK loci have been identified with autosomal dominant genes such as SNCA, and LRRK2, and autosomal recessive genes such as PRKN, DJ-1, and PINK1. Among these genes, LRRK2 is the most prevalent. Additionally, susceptibility variants located on some of these genes are widely recognized as risk factors for PD in certain ethnic populations. Alpha synuclein Lewy body (LB) pathology, the hallmark of sporadic PD, is predominantly seen in carriers of SNCA and LRRK2. Recently two new autosomal dominant PD genes have been discovered, eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4-gamma (EIF4G1) and vacuolar protein sorting 35 (VPS35). EIF4G1 is associated with LB pathology; however, only limited data currently exists on pathology of the VPS35. Thus, it remains to be seen if LB pathology can be identified on autopsy examination of carriers of VPS35 gene. The mechanism behind the cause of PD has yet to be elucidated; however, genetic studies on autosomal dominant PD have provided novel insights into the potential etiology of PD. Thus, paving the way for future targeted therapies aimed at disease prevention and cure.
The multivariate-t distribution and the Simes inequality

Abstract Sarkar (1998) showed that certain positively dependent ( MTP 2 ) random variables satisfy the Simes inequality. The multivariate- t distribution does not satisfy this ( MTP 2 ) property, so other means are necessary. A corollary was given in Sarkar (1998) to handle this distribution, but there is an error. In this paper a direct proof is given to show the multivariate- t does satisfy the Simes inequality.
Ezogabine for the Adjunctive Treatment of Partial Onset Seizures in Adults with Epilepsy

Partial seizures are frequently resistant to pharmacologic treatment. There are a plethora of medications currently approved for use in partial epilepsy. However, despite the large number of medications available, seizure control often remains elusive. A new medication with a unique mechanism of action has recently been approved for the adjunctive treatment of partial seizures in adults. Ezogabine (retigabine) exerts its actions at the level of voltage-gated potassium channels. In clinical trials it has demonstrated efficacy similar to that of other agents approved for resistant partial epilepsy. Adverse events tend to be central nervous system related. However, significant urinary retention has been noted in some persons exposed to the drug. A Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy is being implemented to minimize urinary adverse events. Ezogabine represents an important addition to the partial epilepsy medication arsenal.
Superposition of antidromic responses in pyramidal tract cell clusters.

Abstract Large-seeing-distance microelectrodes were used to record simultaneously the activity of several pyramidal tract neurons in cerebral cortex. When activated antidromically, these neurons responded simultaneously, forming a “stack” of superimposed spikes, rather than responding at different times within the 10-ms time interval during which they might be expected to respond. Using a variety of spike collision tests, we found that these individual spikes arose from separate sources and reflected the activity of individual, albeit neighboring, pyramidal tract neurons. The collaterals of neurons within a stack projected to different structures, further verifying that separate neurons were involved. Such synchrony of antidromic activity among neighboring pyramidal tract neurons is an exceedingly low-probability event, if neighboring fibers conduct independently of one another. Our results imply that fibers from small clusters of neurons in the cortex assemble to form synchronously conducting bundles of fibers within the pyramidal tract.
Structure and molecular organization of the photosynthetic accessory pigments of cyanobacteria and red algae

Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) and Rhodophyta (red algae) contain high concentrations of photosynthetic accessory pigments (phycobiliproteins) which trap light energy in the region between 400 and 650 nm. The electronic excitation energy is then transferred along a chain of these pigments to the reaction center chlorophyll of Photosystem II by a radiationless induced resonance process.
RAIphy: Phylogenetic classification of metagenomics samples using iterative refinement of relative abundance index profiles

Computational analysis of metagenomes requires the taxonomical assignment of the genome contigs assembled from DNA reads of environmental samples. Because of the diverse nature of microbiomes, the length of the assemblies obtained can vary between a few hundred bp to a few hundred Kbp. Current taxonomic classification algorithms provide accurate classification for long contigs or for short fragments from organisms that have close relatives with annotated genomes. These are significant limitations for metagenome analysis because of the complexity of microbiomes and the paucity of existing annotated genomes. We propose a robust taxonomic classification method, RAIphy, that uses a novel sequence similarity metric with iterative refinement of taxonomic models and functions effectively without these limitations. We have tested RAIphy with synthetic metagenomics data ranging between 100 bp to 50 Kbp. Within a sequence read range of 100 bp-1000 bp, the sensitivity of RAIphy ranges between 38%-81% outperforming the currently popular composition-based methods for reads in this range. Comparison with computationally more intensive sequence similarity methods shows that RAIphy performs competitively while being significantly faster. The sensitivity-specificity characteristics for relatively longer contigs were compared with the PhyloPythia and TACOA algorithms. RAIphy performs better than these algorithms at varying clade-levels. For an acid mine drainage (AMD) metagenome, RAIphy was able to taxonomically bin the sequence read set more accurately than the currently available methods, Phymm and MEGAN, and more accurately in two out of three tests than the much more computationally intensive method, PhymmBL. With the introduction of the relative abundance index metric and an iterative classification method, we propose a taxonomic classification algorithm that performs competitively for a large range of DNA contig lengths assembled from metagenome data. Because of its speed, simplicity, and accuracy RAIphy can be successfully used in the binning process for a broad range of metagenomic data obtained from environmental samples.
Comment on Selection-Rule Effects in Electron-Energy-Loss Spectroscopy of Ge and GaAs Surfaces

Recent energy-loss and photoemission-partial-yield studies of (spin-orbit-split) $d$-core to surface-state transitions imply relative transition probabilities for the ${d}_{\frac{5}{2}}$ and ${d}_{\frac{3}{2}}$ components differing from their orbital degeneracies. This has previously been interpreted as implying $s$ character for the unoccupied surface states of GaAs(110). I present an alternative explanation for this effect assuming only $p$ character for these states and a small exchange interaction.
Influence of Environmental Factors on Denitrification in Sediment Contaminated with JP‐4 Jet Fuel

In 1975, the loss of approximately 83,000 gallons of JP-4 grade jet fuel resulted in contamination of the shallow aquifer near North Charleston, South Carolina. To identify those factors likely to influence microbial activity under denitrifying conditions, we examined the fate of amended NO3, the effect of pH, NO3, and PO4 on denitrification, and the variability of denitrification in sediments collected at the site. Denitrification (N2O-N production) accounted for 98% of the depletion of NO3-N under anaerobic conditions. Both carbon mineralization and denitrification rates increased asymptotically with increasing NO3 to a maximum at approximately 1 mM NO3. Addition of up to 1 mM PO4 did not significantly increase N2O and CO2 production. Denitrification rates were at least 38% lower at pH = 4 than observed at pH = 7. Comparison of samples with differing degrees of hydrocarbon contamination indicated that at least a tenfold variation in sediment denitrification occurs at the North Charleston site.
Evaluation of Interventions to Reduce Multiply Controlled Vocal Stereotypy

This study examined four interventions targeted at decreasing multiply controlled vocal stereotypy for a 12-year-old boy diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and a severe intellectual disability. These interventions included Noncontingent Music, Differential Reinforcement of Other Behaviors, Self-Recording, and Functional Communication Training (FCT). In addition to measuring vocal stereotypy during each condition, task engagement and challenging behavior were also monitored. Across conditions, vocal stereotypy did not vary significantly from baseline except in FCT, when it decreased significantly. Task engagement was higher in this condition as well. It is hypothesized that FCT provided an enriched environment by increasing social interaction and access to desired items as well as removal of less preferred activities. For these reasons, there was a decrease in the need for the participant to engage in vocal stereotypy and challenging behavior and increase in his ability to engage in a task.
An experimental model of carotid artery occlusive disease

To develop an animal model for acute carotid artery occlusion suitable for studying the retinal sequelae of this disease, we performed bilateral and unilateral common carotid artery ligations on mature pigmented rats. Bilateral ligation consistently resulted in a characteristic pathologic retinal appearance, paralleling the retinopathy of carotid artery occlusive disease in humans, demonstrated by fundus photography and fluorescein angiography. Any abnormalities found in the rats with unilateral ligations were inconsistent and less severe, although fluorescein angiography proved to be more sensitive than ophthalmoscopy for detecting these subtle changes. Pepsin-trypsin retinal digests disclosed extensive disruption of the microvasculature in the eyes of bilaterally ligated animals. This model should prove to be useful in examining the reversibility of the ocular findings as well as evaluating central nervous system abnormalities after carotid artery occlusion.
Simulation and cost optimization of solar heating of buildings in adverse solar regions

Abstract In the present study a model has been developed which simulates the effects of hourly weather conditions on the performance and cost of a combined solar/conventional heating system for buildings in cold, cloudy climates. The model exhibits the effects of several system and cost parameters on combined system cost so that optimal designs can be determined. Performance and cost results are presented for 1971 Ottawa, Ontario, weather data. The economic analysis, which treats both collector and conventional system fuel costs parametrically, shows that solar heating of a typical house in cold, cloudy climates is economically competitive with fuel oil heating only if the price of oil rises to approximately 80¢/gal.
FLUORESCENT POLYENE ALIPHATICS AS SPECTROSCOPIC AND MECHANISTIC PROBES FOR BACTERIAL LUCIFERASE: EVIDENCE AGAINST CARBONYL PRODUCT FROM ALDEHYDE AS THE PRIMARY EXCITED SPECIES

The fluorescent α-parinaric acid (α-PAC) and β-parinaric acid (β-PAC) were converted to the corresponding aldehydes and alcohols all of which exhibited absorption and fluorescence properties closely resembling those of the parent acids. α-PAC and β-PAC each binds to luciferase in competition with aldehyde. The hydrophobic nature of the aldehyde site was indicated by the enhanced fluorescence quantum yields of the bound α-PAC and β-PAC. These two polyene acids and the β-parinaryl alcohol were shown to stabilize the luciferase flavin-peroxide intermediate. α-Parinaraldehyde (α-PAD) and bt-parinaraldehyde (β-PAD) were active substrates for Vibrio harveyi and Vibrio fischeri luciferases and, for the former enzyme, exhibited Km, values similar to and quantum yields about20–30% as those for decanal and dodecanal. For the V. harveyi luciferase with reduced FMN as a co-substrate, the α-PAD- or β-PAD-initiated luminescence was indistinguishable from the normal emission obtained with octanal (γmax 495 nm) showing no additional 430-nm component correlatable with emission from excited α-PAC or β-PAC. In reactions using reduced 2-thioFMN for V. harveyi luciferase or reduced FMN for V. fischeri luciferase plus yellow fluorescent protein, the replacement of octanal by β-PAD again resulted in no additional 430-nm emission. The lack of any emission correlatable with excited α-PAC, β-PAC, or equivalent carbonyl product was not due to the quenching of the polyene moiety by chemical transformation, binding to luciferase, or a 100% energy transfer to the flavin 4a-hydroxide emitter. These results strongly favor singlet state of flavin 4a-hydroxide rather than singlet or triplet carbonyl product from aldehyde as the primary excited species in the normal luciferase reaction in the absence of any additional fluorescent protein.
The Relationship Between Ego Identity Status and Satisfaction with College.

AbstractTwo studies were conducted to investigate the relationship between Erikson's concept of ego identity and student attitudes toward college. The results of Study 1 indicated that students who were in the process of going through an identity crisis over occupational choice had the least favorable evaluations of their education while students who had never experienced a crisis but were, nevertheless, committed to a vocational goal held the most favorable attitudes. Study 2 demonstrated that students who went through crisis over choice of major field while in college showed more negative attitudes than did students not experiencing a crisis during their college years. These findings suggest that the association of crisis with college is an important factor in student dissatisfaction.
On the rate-dependency of dynamic tensile strength of a model ceramic system

In this paper, we use the established cohesive element method to investigate the probabilistic failure of a model ceramic system under dynamic tensile loading. Monte-Carlo simulations are performed to calculate the fracture strength of a monolithic silicon carbide (SiC), which is deformed by different strain rates. The numerical tests intend to provide elementary intuitions on a physical phenomenon that is difficult to observe experimentally. By statistically analyzing the test data, two kinds of rate-dependency related to the tensile strength are found: (1) the average tensile strength increases with strain rate; and (2) the scatter of the tensile strength decreases with strain rate. These phenomena are explained by recurring to the physics of dynamic microcracking mechanisms. Weibull analysis on these test data provides quantitative rate-dependent Weibull parameters.
Shifting distributions of adult Atlantic sturgeon amidst post-industrialization and future impacts in the Delaware River: a maximum entropy approach.

Atlantic sturgeon (Acipenser oxyrinchus oxyrinchus) experienced severe declines due to habitat destruction and overfishing beginning in the late 19th century. Subsequent to the boom and bust period of exploitation, there has been minimal fishing pressure and improving habitats. However, lack of recovery led to the 2012 listing of Atlantic sturgeon under the Endangered Species Act. Although habitats may be improving, the availability of high quality spawning habitat, essential for the survival and development of eggs and larvae may still be a limiting factor in the recovery of Atlantic sturgeon. To estimate adult Atlantic sturgeon spatial distributions during riverine occupancy in the Delaware River, we utilized a maximum entropy (MaxEnt) approach along with passive biotelemetry during the likely spawning season. We found that substrate composition and distance from the salt front significantly influenced the locations of adult Atlantic sturgeon in the Delaware River. To broaden the scope of this study we projected our model onto four scenarios depicting varying locations of the salt front in the Delaware River: the contemporary location of the salt front during the likely spawning season, the location of the salt front during the historic fishery in the late 19th century, an estimated shift in the salt front by the year 2100 due to climate change, and an extreme drought scenario, similar to that which occurred in the 1960’s. The movement of the salt front upstream as a result of dredging and climate change likely eliminated historic spawning habitats and currently threatens areas where Atlantic sturgeon spawning may be taking place. Identifying where suitable spawning substrate and water chemistry intersect with the likely occurrence of adult Atlantic sturgeon in the Delaware River highlights essential spawning habitats, enhancing recovery prospects for this imperiled species.
Ab Initio and Density Functional Study of the Electronic Transitions of Indoline and Indoline-2-Carboxylic Acid

In this study, a range of computational methods including time-dependent density functional theory, configuration interaction, and Zerner's spectroscopic intermediate neglect of differential overla...
Structure and Membrane Interaction of Myristoylated ARF1

ADP-ribosylation factors (ARFs) are small (21 kDa), monomeric GTPases that are important regulators of membrane traffic. When membrane bound, they recruit soluble adaptors to membranes and trigger the assembly of coating complexes involved in cargo selection and vesicular budding. N-myristoylation is a conserved feature of all ARF proteins that is required for its biological functions, although the mechanism(s) by which the myristate acts in ARF functions is not fully understood. Here we present the structure of a myristoylated ARF1 protein, determined by solution NMR methods, and an assessment of the influence of myristoylation on association of ARF1.GDP and ARF1.GTP with lipid bilayers. A model in which myristoylation contributes to both the regulation of guanine nucleotide exchange and stable membrane association is supported.
Physiologic subperiosteal new bone formation: prevalence, distribution, and thickness in neonates and infants.

OBJECTIVE. The objective of our study was to determine the prevalence, distribution, and thickness of physiologic subperiosteal new bone formation in neonates and infants.MATERIALS AND METHODS. High-detail postmortem skeletal radiologic surveys of 101 neonates and infants who had died from sudden infant death syndrome were reviewed. The average age at the time of death was 2.6 months (range, 2 weeks—8 months 2 weeks). The location, distribution, and thickness of subperiosteal new bone formation of the long bones were noted and measured with an ocular magnification system.RESULTS. subperiosteal new bone formation was identified in 35 infants (35%), all of whom were between 1 and 4 months of age. The prevalence of subperiosteal new bone formation involving one or more bones was 37% for ages 1-2 months, 55% for ages 2-3 months, and 35% for ages 3-4 months. subperiosteal new bone formation involved the tibia in 29 infants (bilateral involvement in 19) and the femurs in 14 infants (bilateral involvement in 11)...
Origination of the Protein Fold Repertoire from Oily Pluripotent Peptides

While the repertoire of protein folds that exists today underlies most of life's capabilities, our mechanistic picture of protein fold origination is incomplete. This paper discusses a hypothetical mechanism for the emergence of the protein fold repertoire from highly dynamic and collapsed peptides, exemplified by peptides with high oil content or hydrophobicity. These peptides are called pluripotent to emphasize their capacity to evolve into numerous folds transiently available to them. As evidence, the paper will discuss previous simulation work on the superior fold evolvability of oily peptides, trace ("fossil") evidence within proteomes seen today, and a general relationship between protein dynamism and evolvability. Aside from implications on the origination of protein folds, the hypothesis implies that the vanishing utility of a random peptide in protein origination may be relatively exaggerated, as some random peptides with a certain composition (e.g., oily) may fare better than others. In later sections, the hypothesis is discussed in the context of existing discussions regarding the spontaneous origination of biomolecules.
Field evaluation of water transport in grape berries during water deficits

The net flow in vascular and transpirational components of the grape berry water budget was evaluated during water deficits imposed at different stages of fruit development. Diurnal fluctuations in berry diameter were measured on field-grown grapevines (Vitis vinifera L. cv. Cabernet Sauvignon) by using electronic displacement transducers. Water deficits were imposed by withholding irrigation, and water potentials of mid-shoot leaves, basal stem xylem and clusters were determined with a pressure chamber. The relative net flows through pedicel xylem and phloem and through berry transpiration were estimated pre-veraison and post-veraison. The xylem functioned nearly exclusively in providing net inflow pre-veraison, while the phloem was clearly dominant post-veraison. Accordingly, the amplitude of diurnal contraction was markedly smaller post-veraison than pre-veraison. The amplitude of diurnal contraction increased dramatically with decreasing plant water status pre-veraison, yet exhibited little sensitivity to low vine water status post-veraison. Measurements of the difference in water potential between clusters and source stems did not provide evidence of a gradient that would elicit significant water movement from the cluster to the stem at any time of the day. This was true for both irrigated and non-irrigated vines, although the non-irrigated vines exhibited a smaller gradient favoring inflow throughout much of the day. The gradient for xylem water transport to the cluster was considerably smaller post-veraison than pre-veraison. The results showed that berry transpiration functioned as the primary pathway for water loss both pre- and post-veraison.
Inflation, Agriculture, and the Food Economy: Discussion

Our economy, of all economies in the world, should have the capacity for flexibility and dynamism beyond most others to achieve the basic economic goals of full employment, price stability, and economic growth. But, increasingly it appears our economic system lacks the adaptability and capacity to generate change. One reason for inflation being at, or near, the forefront as an economic problem is that we may have set our sights for economic growth, economic equality, and full employment at unrealistic levels. Our promises have led to highly stimulative monetary and fiscal policies. Combined with excessive regulation, they have resulted in an acceleration in the rate of inflation.
Crosslinking of Starch Xanthate IV. Epoxy Resin and Diepoxide Thickeners for Xanthate and Starch

Aqueous solutions of starch xanthate (of varying degree of substitution), butanediol dixanthate or alkali-gelatinized starch were reacted with a diepoxide, such as butanediol diglycidyl ether to get viscous gels. Epoxy resins were likewise reacted with xanthate to form viscous media. Alkaligelatinized starch of varying alkali ratio content similarly produced gels with diepoxides. Solids were precipitated from the gels and their compositions were deduced from their elemental contents and infrared spectra.
Active-region plages and the Hyades anomaly?

The Hyades are known to differ in their photometric properties (Crawford 1969; Campbell 1984) and spectral properties (Rose 1984) from field stars of similar metal abundance. Using spectra of solar plages, it is demonstrated that the Hyades spectral anomalies are caused by excess emission from magnetic regions (plages) on the surfaces of these cluster stars. It is further speculated that the Hyades photometric anomalies arise from the same cause, but photometric data on solar plages necessary to resolve this issue are not available. The Pleiades stars and a few extreme emission stars show similar spectral anomalies, but of such magnitude to indicate that plages on Pleiades stars have higher surface brightnesses than on the sun and do not merely cover a larger fraction of the stars.
Axial donating ligands: a new strategy for late transition metal olefin polymerization catalysis.

An α-diimine ligand (1) containing an axial donating pyridine group is developed for late metal polymerization catalysis. Despite having no substitution on the bottom face of the ligand, the nickel and palladium complexes of 1 are highly active for ethylene polymerization, producing linear high molecular weight polymers. For example, 1−NiBr2 (3) forms PE with a Mn of up to 109 224 g/mol with 1.4 branches/1000 C’s. Similarly, 1−PdMeCl (5) forms PE with a Mn of up to 880 379 g/mol with 5.1 branches/1000 C’s. In sharp contrast, catalysts containing the control ligand (2) consisting of a noncoordinating phenyl group gave only low molecular weight branched oligomers. It is observed that AlMe2Cl plays a specific role in generating the active species for the pyridine-based complexes. Presumably, the pyridine group may interact with AlMe2Cl to form a bimetallic species which suppresses the β-hydride elimination process, hence resulting in reduced chain transfer and more linear structure.
Three score and ten plus more

The elderly in our society are required to make many social and psychologic adjustments. In addition, they have to cope with the inevitable physiologic changes associated with the aging process. These alterations in lifestyle and in body functioning call for modified dietary patterns during this phase of life. In particular, older persons should reduce caloric intake while maintaining a highly nourishing diet. Other recommended dietary modifications include a shift toward smaller meals eaten more frequently, and the use of generous amounts of fiber and liquid to avoid constipation. As a result of growing community awareness, some programs have been started to assist the elderly in overcoming problems that may cause poor nourishment.
Nifedipine in Hypertensive Crises of Infants and Children

Nifedipine given by the sublingual route has been used in the treatment of 30 hypertensive emergencies in 20 children suffering from renal disease. The mean dosage of nifedipine was 0.33 mg/kg body weight. In 20 hypertensive crises occurring in 16 patients a single dose of nifedipine was sufficient to lower systolic as well as diastolic blood pressure significantly within 90 min. for a period of 4 to 12 hours. No side effects were noted with the exception of a transient flush in one patient. Nifedipine proved to be suitable for the primary treatment of hypertensive emergencies in children suffering from renal hypertension. The advantages of nifedipine compared to other drugs used for treating hypertensive crises is the rapid onset of the antihypertensive action without need for an intravenous form of administration.
Bidirectional interactions between NOX2-type NADPH oxidase and the F-actin cytoskeleton in neuronal growth cones

NADPH oxidases are important for neuronal function but detailed subcellular localization studies have not been performed. Here, we provide the first evidence for the presence of functional NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2)-type complex in neuronal growth cones and its bidirectional relationship with the actin cytoskeleton. NADPH oxidase inhibition resulted in reduced F-actin content, retrograde F-actin flow, and neurite outgrowth. Stimulation of NADPH oxidase via protein kinase C activation increased levels of hydrogen peroxide in the growth cone periphery. The main enzymatic NADPH oxidase subunit NOX2/gp91(phox) localized to the growth cone plasma membrane and showed little overlap with the regulatory subunit p40(phox) . p40(phox) itself exhibited colocalization with filopodial actin bundles. Differential subcellular fractionation revealed preferential association of NOX2/gp91(phox) and p40(phox) with the membrane and the cytoskeletal fraction, respectively. When neurite growth was evoked with beads coated with the cell adhesion molecule apCAM, we observed a significant increase in colocalization of p40(phox) with NOX2/gp91(phox) at apCAM adhesion sites. Together, these findings suggest a bidirectional functional relationship between NADPH oxidase activity and the actin cytoskeleton in neuronal growth cones, which contributes to the control of neurite outgrowth. We have previously shown that reactive oxygen species (ROS) are critical for actin organization and dynamics in neuronal growth cones as well as neurite outgrowth. Here, we report that the cytosolic subunit p40(phox) of the NOX2-type NADPH oxidase complex is partially associated with F-actin in neuronal growth cones, while ROS produced by this complex regulates F-actin dynamics and neurite growth. These findings provide evidence for a bidirectional relationship between NADPH oxidase activity and the actin cytoskeleton in neuronal growth cones.
EXTRACELLULAR FREEZING IN EQUISETUM HYEMALE

Extracellular freezing occurs within the pith cavities of Equisetum hyemale L. aerial shoots when they are exposed to subfreezing temperatures. The weight of plugs of ice within pith cavities correlates linearly with the weight of intemodal tissues (r2 = 0.974, N = 10); ice plugs are 32-38% (33 ? 1.8%) the weight of intact shoots. Upon thawing, internodal water is gradually reabsorbed by excised shoots. Extracellular freezing can be induced by exposing excised shoots to gradually decreasing temperatures (5 C/day) to - 20C, and is associated with a reduction in tissue water potential. Data indicate that internodal tissues behave as osmometers and dehydrate until reaching equilibrium with the chemical potentials of extracellular fluids within intemodal pith cavities. Upon thawing, intemodal water is reabsorbed by excised shoots and tissue water potential increases. Extracellular freezing may operate as a mechanism that reduces intracellular ice formation and tissue damage during extremely cold weather.
Development of an aggregation-based immunoassay for anti-protein A using gold nanoparticles.

A unique, sensitive, and highly specific immunoassay system for antibodies using gold nanoparticles has been developed. The assay is based on the aggregation of gold nanoparticles that are coated with protein antigens in the presence of their corresponding antibodies. The aggregation of the gold nanoparticles results in an absorption change at 620 nm that is monitored using an absorption plate reader. To demonstrate the analytical capabilities of the new technique, monodispersed protein A-coated gold particles, averaging 10 nm in diameter, were used to determine the level of anti-protein A in serum samples. The effects of the pH, the temperature, and the concentration of protein A-coated gold nanoparticles on the sensitivity of the assay were investigated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and UV/vis absorption spectroscopy. A dynamic range of 2 orders of magnitude and a limit of detection of 1 μg/mL of anti-protein A were observed. The new technique could be used for fast, high-throughput scree...
Diabetic nephropathy: Of mice and men

Accumulating evidence supports intrinsic genetic susceptibility as an important variable in the progression of diabetic nephropathy in people. Mice provide an experimental platform of unparalleled power for dissecting the genetics of mammalian diseases; however, phenotypic analysis of diabetic mice lags behind that already established for humans. Standardized benchmarks of hyperglycemia, albuminuria, and measurements of renal failure remain to be developed for different inbred strains of mice. The most glaring deficiency has been the lack of a diabetic mouse model that develops progressively worsening renal insufficiency, the sine qua non of diabetic nephropathy in humans. Differences in susceptibility of these inbred strains to complications of diabetes mellitus provide a possible avenue to dissect the genetic basis of diabetic nephropathy; however, the identification of those strains and/or mutants most susceptible to renal injury from diabetes mellitus is lacking. Identification of a mouse model that faithfully mirrors the pathogenesis of DN in humans will undoubtedly facilitate the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.
Jensen-Shannon Divergence in Ensembles of Concurrently-Trained Neural Networks

Ensembles of neural networks have been the focus of extensive studies over the past two decades. Effectively encouraging diversity remains a key element in yielding improved performance from such ensembles. Negatively correlated learning (NCL) has emerged as a promising framework for concurrently training an ensemble of learners while emphasizing the cooperation among them. The NCL methodology relies on negatively correlating the errors of the learners as means of diversifying their outputs. In this paper, we extend this framework by employing the Jensen-Shannon divergence (JSD) - an information-theoretic measure of similarity between probability distributions - as a richer measure of diversity between learners. It is argued that for classification problems, utilizing the JSD is more appropriate than negatively correlating the errors. We analyze the new formulation and derive an upper bound on the parameter that balances accuracy and diversity among the learners. Simulation results applied to standardized benchmarks clearly demonstrate the advantages of the proposed method.
ON THE CHROMOSOMAL BASIS FOR CELLULAR DIFFERENTIATION

The relationship of somatic polyploidy to cellular differentiation is discussed. Evidences for the occurrence of endopolyploidy on the basis of auxin-induced divisions are questioned and considered valid in the light of radioisotope studies of DNA synthesis. The non-universality of endopolyploidy is shown by known exceptions. The occurrence of endopolyploidy in varying degrees in gametophytes of the same species of fern which are of different basic chronlosome numbers shows its variability within a given morphogenetic pattern. From these evidences, and from an analysis of the separate component processes of cell multiplication, it can be concluded that polyploidy is not a necessary precursor or concomitant of cell differentiation, but rather is a type of differentiation in itself. As such-, it may be one of a cumulative set of steps to yet other differentiation, but this may be incidental to the intrinsic nature and role of the nucleus. THis discussion is directed toward the question of quantitative nuclear variation and its relation to morphogenetic events, specifically to the comiponent processes of cell differentiation. There would seem to be an unnecessary confusion concerning this subject. However, this is under
Derivation and generalization of the Suhl spin-wave instability relations

The Suhl spin-wave instability relations are shown to be derivable using linear-stability theory and the method of averaging. This makes rigorous Suhl's early work on formulas for the critical radio frequency field for spin-wave instabilities as well as reformulating the problem in more mathematical terms. It also makes possible several generalizations and extensions including formulas for spin waves with frequencies near the usual detuned frequency, and a direct application of second-order averaging theory to show that the first-order results here and in Suhl's original work are very accurate within the infinite time-averaging approximations used. Appendixes on the full equations of motion, including the Landau-Lifshitz damping, and the complete expressions for the Jacobian from the variational equations are also given.
Amino acid composition of the positive, neutral, and negative peptides of trypsin-digested Escherichia coli protein

Abstract Escherichia coli protein has been digested by trypsin and the digest separated into groups of peptides carrying a positive charge, a negative charge, and no charge at pH 6.5. The amino acid composition of the various groups of peptides was then determined. From the amount of material in each group and the composition of charged amino acids, a non-random distribution of charged amino acids has been inferred. No significant non-randomnes was found in the distribution of neutral amino acids among the three peaks.
Nifedipine overdose accompanied by ethanol intoxication in a patient with congenital heart disease

A 34-year-old female was brought to the emergency department after taking 200 to 250 mg of nifedipine and drinking an unknown amount of ethanol in a suicide attempt. She was hypotensive, acidotic, mildly hyperglycemic, and exhibited a conduction abnormality on the ECG. The patient was treated with IV fluids, thiamine, and calcium infusion. The patient was later found to have an endocardial cushion defect with a patched ventricular septal defect and an atrial septal defect of the ostium primum type. We did not observe any untoward effects due to the combination of drugs and congenital abnormalities that could be explained on an individual basis. Nifedipine overdose associated with alcohol intoxication, to our knowledge, has not been previously reported.
Identity salience and shifts in product preferences of Hispanic consumers: Cultural relevance of product attributes as a moderator

Abstract Culturally relevant products, services, and communications play a crucial role in the success of ethnic targeted marketing. Employing a bi-dimensional approach, two studies examine how cultural relevance of product attributes interacts with acculturation level, and situational and contextual factors to affect product attribute evaluations (PAE) of Hispanic consumers. Across both studies, cultural relevance had main effects on PAE. In Study 1, cultural relevance interacted with cultural situations to affect PAE. Hispanic consumers evaluated Hispanic (or Mainstream) relevant product attributes more favorably when exposed to a Hispanic (or Mainstream) cultural situation. In Study 2, cultural relevance interacted independently with cultural primes and acculturation level to significantly affect PAE. PAE shifted as a result of cultural primes and moved toward being typical to the activated cultural identity. Results are discussed in the context of consumer acculturation, social identity-based consumption, biculturalism, and cultural frame shifting.
Modulating inhibitory ligand-gated ion channels

The glycine and γ-aminobutyric acid receptors (GlyR and GABAAR, respectively) are the major inhibitory neurotransmitter-gated receptors in the central nervous system of animals. Given the important role of these receptors in neuronal inhibition, they are prime targets of many therapeutic agents and are the object of intense studies aimed at correlating their structure and function. In this review, the structure and dynamics of these and other homologous members of the nicotinicoid superfamily are described. The modulatory actions of the major biological macromolecules that bind and allosterically affect these receptors are also discussed.
Simultaneous quantitation of knee ligament forces

An apparatus and experimental technique have been developed which allow the simultaneous quantitation of human cadaver knee ligament forces with the knee in various positions and subjected to various loads. The methodology permits all the major ligaments of the knee to be kept intact, thus preserving much of their normal relative load-bearing function. A novel measurement technique was employed for ligament force measurement. Strain gauges were placed at the ligamentous insertions and origins either on cortical bone or the cancellous/cortical transition. Gauge output was subsequently calibrated quantitatively by cutting the ligaments and subjecting them to known loads. The gauging technique was thermally stable, and the method as a whole yielded reproducible relative ligament force data when knee positions and loads were repeated for a given knee specimen. Three fresh human cadaver knee specimens have been subjected to testing thus far with gauges at six ligamentous sites. Initial evaluation of the data indicate that ligamentous loading patterns were quite different from those reported in the literature as determined by other methods.
Dendrite formation by apparent repeated twinning of calcium oxalate dihydrate

Dendrite crystals generally result from the extension of a single crystal in preferred growth directions to form a branched structure with uniform lattice and optical properties throughout. Tetragonal calcium oxalate dihydrate was found to form intricately branched structures with each order of branching having a different optic orientation. The branches appeared to result from twinning, suggesting that this may be an entirely new mechanism for dendrite formation. The structures are examined and the effect of this form of dendritic growth on material strength is considered.
CAGD-Based Computer Vision

Three-dimensional model-based computer vision uses geometric models of objects and sensed data to recognize objects in a scene. Likewise, Computer Aided Geometric Design (CAGD) systems are used to interactively generate three-dimensional models during the design process. Despite this similarity, there has been a dichotomy between these fields. Recently, the unification of CAGD and vision systems has become the focus of research in the context of manufacturing automation. This paper explores the connection between CAGD and computer vision. A method for the automatic generation of recognition strategies based on the geometric properties of shape has been devised and implemented. This uses a novel technique developed for quantifying the following properties of features which compose models used in computer vision: robustness, completeness, consistency, cost, and uniqueness. By utilizing this information, the automatic synthesis of a specialized recognition scheme, called a Strategy Tree, is accomplished. Strategy Trees describe, in a systematic and robust manner, the search process used for recognition and localization of particular objects in the given scene. They consist of selected featureS which satisfy system constraints and Corroborating Evidence Subtrees which are used in the formation of hypotheses. Verification techniques, used to substantiate or refute these hypotheses, are explored.
Hydrologic modeling of flood conveyance and impacts of historic overbank sedimentation on West Fork Black's Fork, Uinta Mountains, northeastern Utah, USA

Abstract This study assesses historic overbank alluvial sedimentation along a low-gradient reach of West Fork Black's Fork in the northern Uinta Mountains, Utah. In this previously glaciated setting, an alluvial floodplain that is approximately 400 m wide by 1500 m long has been modified by the combined effects of valley morphometry and the recent history of clear-cut logging during the late 19th and early 20th Centuries. To quantify the effects on sedimentation and flow conveyance, three natural streambank exposures were sampled and analyzed for nuclear bomb fallout 137 Cs. The distribution of 137 Cs within the three profiles suggests that a remnant outwash terrace exerts a first-order control over the deposition of overbank alluvium. Upstream from a constriction in the floodplain caused by the terrace remnant, as much as 40 cm of overbank alluvium has been deposited since the beginning of clear-cut logging. Immediately downstream of that constriction, no evidence exists for any overbank sedimentation during that same period. Vibracore samples and Oakfield soil probe sampling throughout the study reach quantified the geographic extent and thicknesses of the historic alluvial package. Flood conveyance through the study area was modeled using the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers HEC-RAS modeling program. Model simulations were run for modern conditions (using surveyed topography) and for prehistoric conditions (using the modern topography less the historic alluvial package determined by 137 Cs analyses). Model results indicate that the floodplain constriction caused a significant impediment to flood conveyance at even modest discharges during prehistoric conditions. This promoted ponding of floodwaters upstream of the constriction and deposition of alluvium. This has increased bank heights upstream of the constriction, to the point that under modern conditions 1- to 5-year recurrence interval floods are largely confined within the channel. These results confirm the validity of this new approach of combining 137 Cs dating of alluvial sediments with HEC-RAS flow modeling to compare flood conveyance along a single stream reach prior to and since an abrupt change in alluvial sedimentation patterns.
Acute chest syndrome in the postoperative sickle cell patient.

Abstract Background/Purpose: Acute chest syndrome (ACS), a phenomenon of pulmonary sequestration in sickle cell disease (SCD) patients, is frequently missed in the postoperative SCD child. The constellation of symptoms range from fever and respiratory distress to abdominal discomfort. In its most fulminate state, the syndrome has been reported in some series to carry almost a 25% to 50% mortality rate in the postoperative patient. The incidence in pediatric patients in the era of minimally invasive surgery is unknown. Methods: Since December 1995, 63 episodes of ACS have been documented in the nearly 500 SCD children seen at our institution. Six of 63 episodes occurred within 2 weeks after a surgical procedure under general anesthesia. During this period, 59 operations were performed by the pediatric surgery service on SCD patients with an ACS incidence of 10.2%. Careful review of the preoperative, intraoperative, and post-operative management of these patients was performed. Results: All six received preoperative oxygen saturation monitoring and intravenous fluid (IVF) hydration. One half of these patients required transfusion to achieve a hemoglobin level of greater than 10 mg/dL. Documentation of intraoperative temperature, hypoxia, volume status, and hypercarbia as well as any atypical perioperative events were monitored and reviewed. All patients received postoperative oxygen supplementation and IVF hydration. Onset of ACS ranged from 1 hour to 7 days postoperatively. Only one of six was thought to be of microbial etiology (elevated mycoplasma titers), and all patients received prophylactic antibiotic and aggressive pulmonary therapy. Overall length of hospitalization was increased with an average stay of 6.1 days. There were no postsurgical ACS deaths. Conclusions: Despite close attention and avoidance of known risk factors for development of postoperative SCD complications, ACS occurred with an incidence much higher than previously reported in the literature (0.4% v 10.2%). Interestingly, five of six cases were after laparoscopic procedures suggesting that the advantages of laparoscopy, such as reduced postoperative pain, do not extrapolate to decreased incidence of ACS.
The Price Differential's Impact on Retention, Recruitment, and Quality in a Public University

ABSTRACT Colleges and universities are considering various marketing strategies to attract and retain students. One strategy that has not received much attention is a price differential strategy. A tuition price differential allows schools or departments within a university to charge a different (higher) tuition rate as opposed to a flat rate tuition charge. Primary concerns for not adopting such a strategy is the fear of losing students to competitive institutions or sustaining criticism from various constituencies. Such a strategy however, may be effective if communicated to students and others. A price differential may serve as a legitimate signal of quality. The benefits, however, from the price increase must be evident in tangible terms for the student. This paper presents a review of literature on the role of tuition and college attendance, the use of tuition differentials by higher education institutions, a report on the findings of a study of current students' attitudes and perceptions about degre...