cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Structural Energetics of the Adenine Tract from an Intrinsic Transcription Terminator

Abstract Intrinsic transcription termination sites generally contain a tract of adenines in the DNA template that yields a tract of uracils at the 3′ end of the nascent RNA. To understand how this base sequence contributes to termination of transcription, we have investigated two nucleic acid structures. The first is the RNA–DNA hybrid that contains the uracil tract 5′-rUUUUUAU-3′ from the tR2 intrinsic terminator of bacteriophage λ. The second is the homologous DNA–DNA duplex that contains the adenine tract 5′-dATAAAAA-3′. This duplex is present at the tR2 site when the DNA is not transcribed. The opening and the stability of each rU-dA/dT-dA base pair in the two structures are characterized by imino proton exchange and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The results reveal concerted opening of the central rU-dA base pairs in the RNA–DNA hybrid. Furthermore, the stability profile of the adenine tract in the RNA–DNA hybrid is very different from that of the tract in the template DNA–DNA duplex. In the RNA–DNA hybrid, the stabilities of rU-dA base pairs range from 4.3 to 6.5 kcal/mol (at 10 °C). The sites of lowest stability are identified at the central positions of the tract. In the template DNA–DNA duplex, the dT-dA base pairs are more stable than the corresponding rU-dA base pairs in the hybrid by 0.9 to 4.6 kcal/mol and, in contrast to the RNA–DNA hybrid, the central base pairs have the highest stability. These results suggest that the central rU-dA/dT-dA base pairs in the adenine tract make the largest energetic contributions to transcription termination by promoting both the dissociation of the RNA transcript and the closing of the transcription bubble. The results also suggest that the high stability of dT-dA base pairs in the DNA provides a signal for the pausing of RNA polymerase at the termination site.
Multi-Agent Flight Simulation with Robust Situation Generation

A robust situation generation architecture has been developed that generates multi-agent situations for human subjects. An implementation of this architecture was developed to support flight simulation tests of air transport cockpit systems. This system maneuvers pseudo-aircraft relative to the human subject's aircraft, generating specific situations for the subject to respond to. These pseudo-aircraft maneuver within reasonable performance constraints, interact in a realistic manner, and make pre-recorded voice radio communications. Use of this system minimizes the need for human experimenters to control the pseudo-agents and provides consistent interactions between the subject and the pseudo-agents. The achieved robustness of this system to typical variations in the subject's flight path was explored. It was found to successfully generate specific situations within the performance limitations of the subject-aircraft, pseudo-aircraft, and the script used.
Reproductive Attitudes and Behavior Among Latina Adolescents

SUMMARY This study examines the relationship between acculturation and sexual activity, contraceptive use and attitudes toward self. The sample consisted of 290 Latinas participating in a statewide adolescent pregnancy prevention program funded by the California Department of Health Services. Respondents were divided into three groups for purposes of analysis: those born outside the United States, those born in the United States who spoke primarily Spanish in the home, and those born in the United States who spoke primarily English in the home. Results indicated that less acculturated adolescents were less likely to engage in sexual activity. Place of birth was the most important predictor of differences in reproductive attitudes and behavior; language spoken in the home was not a predictor of sexual activity. There were no significant differences in contraceptive use among the sexually active respondents in the three groups. Respondents born outside of the United States had more negatives attitudes towar...
Infrared spectra of some acetone—magnesium adducts

Abstract Co-deposition of atomic magnesium with excess acetone at liquid-nitrogen temperature produces an unstable charge-transfer complex with a characteristic carbonyl infrared band at 1595 cm−1 and stable acetone adducts in which the metal atom bridges the carbonyl bond (π-complex) or coordinates to the oxygen atom (σ-complex). Infrared spectra of these complexes with (CH3)2CO and (CD3)2CO have been obtained. Corroborations for these adducts were obtained from infrared studies of acetone matrices with atomic copper and acetaldehyde matrices with atomic magnesium and with atomic copper. Infrared spectra of an acetone adduct and a dimethyl ether adduct of the Grignard reagent CH3MgI have also been obtained. Hydrolysis of a σ-adduct gives acetone but isopropyl alcohol is obtained from hydrolysis of the π-adduct.
Occurrence of cytoplasmic f- and m-type thioredoxins in leaves

There is a growing body of evidence that thioredoxins (proteins that act as regulatory messengers in linking light to enzyme modulation in chloroplasts [ 1,2]) occur in multiple forms in photosynthetic cells [3-61. Two types of thioredoxins are found in chloroplasts (thioredoxins f and m), and a third type is found outside chloroplasts, possibly in the cytoplasm (thioredoxin c) [6]. Chloroplast thioredoxinsfand m are reduced photochemically by chloroplasts via ferredoxin and ferredoxin-thioredoxin reductase or, independently of light, in vitro by the nonphysiological sulfhydryl reagent dithiothreitol. When reduced, thioredoxinf activates specific chloroplast enzymes, including enzymes of the reductive pentose phosphate cycle (fructose-l ,6-bisphosphatase (Fru-Psse), NADPglyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase, phosphoribulokinase, sedoheptulose-1,7-bisphosphatase [6]) and an enzyme of secondary plant metabolism (phenylalanine ammonia lyase [7]). By contrast, thioredoxin m is specific in its activation of the single chloroplast enzyme, NADP-malate dehydrogenase (NADP-MDH [6]). The function of cytoplasmic thioredoxin c is unknown. In our research, thioredoxin c resembled its chloroplast counterparts in promoting the activation of chloroplast enzymes. However, unlike chloroplast thioredoxins, thioredoxin c appeared to be nonspecific in that when reduced with dithiothreitol it
Comparative analysis of immune responses in cattle vaccinated with Brucella abortus strain 19 or strain RB51.

Abstract Immune responses were measured for 12 weeks following vaccination of cattle with either Brucella abortus strain (S) 19 or SRB51. Cattle vaccinated with S19, but not with SRB51, produced antibodies that agglutinated B. abortus S1119 in the standard tube agglutination test. Cattle vaccinated with S19 or SRB51 produced antibodies to the surface antigens of SRB51 when measured by a dot enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Superficial cervical lymph node (LN) cells obtained by biopsy at 10 and 12 weeks from cattle given the S19 or SRB51 vaccine exhibited similar proliferative responses when incubated in vitro with γ-irradiated B. abortus S2308. At 10 and 12 weeks after vaccination, LN cells obtained from cattle given S19 or SRB51 proliferated to 22 protein fractions (106-18 kDa proteins) of B. abortus S2308 that were isolated by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). Twelve of the same 22 fractions, which contained 49-27 kDa proteins, produced a stimulation index of greater than 10 when incubated with LN cells taken from S19-vaccinated or SRB51-vaccinated cattle. Two factions, which contained 27 kDa proteins of S2308, induced the highest proliferative response (stimulation index 25 or greater) by LN cells in cattle given either S19 or SRB51. These results suggest that cattle vaccinated with S19 or SRB51 have similar LN immune responses to S2308, but unlike S19, SRB51 does not induce positive results in the standard tube agglutination test used to diagnose brucellosis in cattle.
A phase I trial of continuous-infusion cyclophosphamide in refractory cancer patients

Cyclophosphamide demonstrates enhanced tumoricidal activity with decreased bone marrow toxicity when given on a divided-dose schedule in certain animal models. A total of 22 patients presenting with refractory metastatic cancer were treated in a phase I trial of continuous infusion of cyclophosphamide over 96 h. Granulocytopenia of less than 500/microliters that lasted for greater than 14 days or thrombocytopenia of less than 25,000/microliters that lasted for greater than 14 days was the target dose-limiting toxicity in the absence of nonhematologic grade 4 toxicity. The maximal tolerated dose was 7 g/m2. Three patients died. Of 21 evaluable patients, 9 responded, including 8/9 who had experienced disease progression during prior oxazaphosphorine-containing combination chemotherapy. Clinically meaningful responses were observed in patients who had demonstrated clinical resistance to an oxazaphosphorine drug given at lower doses.
Neural net selection methods for Gabor transform detection filters

New Gabor transform (GT) filters to detect candidate object locations independent of the object class, object distortions, and for low contrast objects in clutter are described. A new neural network (NN) technique is described to automate selection of GT parameters and to combine multiple Gabor functions (GFs) into once composite macro GF detection filter. Fusion of real and imaginary GT filter outputs is used to reduce false alarms, (P FA ), while maintaining high detection rates (P D ). Test results on the TRIM-2 database are provided.
Reaction of ammonia with accelerated benzoyl ions under multiple‐collison conditions in a triple quadrupole instrument

The reaction of benzoyl ion with ammonia in multiple-collision conditions in the second quadrupole assembly of a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer at (laboratory) ion kinetic energies from 0 to 20 eV produced the even-electron ions [C6H5]+, [C6H5NH3·(NH3)m]+ (m = 0, 1) and [C6H5CONH3·(NH3)n]+ (n = 0, 1, 2, 3) and the odd-electron ions [C6H4NH3·(NH3)p]+· (p = 0, 1). Thermochemical information could not be obtained under multiple-collision conditions: both exothermic and endothermic reactions were observed, with no translational-energy onset measurable for the endothermic processes, nor decrease in the yield of the exothermic processes at high energies. The behaviour of cluster-ion intensities as pressure varied was qualitatively as expected. There are pressure and energy regions where spectra change little; if this feature were to be general, it would point to some utility for these conditions in qualitative analysis.
A "counter-charge layer in generalized solvents" framework for electrical double layers in neat and hybrid ionic liquid electrolytes.

Room-temperature ionic liquids (RTILs) have received significant attention as electrolytes due to a number of attractive properties such as their wide electrochemical windows. Since electrical double layers (EDLs) are the cornerstone for the applications of RTILs in electrochemical systems such as supercapacitors, it is important to develop an understanding of the structure–capacitance relationships for the EDLs of these systems. Here we present a theoretical framework termed “counter-charge layer in generalized solvents” (CGS) for describing the structure and capacitance of the EDLs in neat RTILs and in RTILs mixed with different mass fractions of organic solvents. Within this framework, an EDL is made up of a counter-charge layer exactly balancing the electrode charge, and of polarized generalized solvents (in the form of layers of ion pairs, each of which has a zero net charge but has a dipole moment—the ion pairs thus can be considered as a generalized solvent) consisting of all RTILs inside the system except the counter-ions in the counter-charge layer, together with solvent molecules if present. Several key features of the EDLs that originate from the strong ion–ion correlation in RTILs, e.g., overscreening of electrode charge and alternating layering of counter-ions and co-ions, are explicitly incorporated into this framework. We show that the dielectric screening in EDLs is governed predominantly by the polarization of generalized solvents (or ion pairs) in the EDL, and the capacitance of an EDL can be related to its microstructure with few a priori assumptions or simplifications. We use this framework to understand two interesting phenomena observed in molecular dynamics simulations of EDLs in a neat IL of 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([BMIM][BF4]) and in a mixture of [BMIM][BF4] and acetonitrile (ACN): (1) the capacitance of the EDLs in the [BMIM][BF4]/ACN mixture increases only slightly when the mass fraction of ACN in the mixture increases from zero to 50% although the dielectric constant of bulk ACN is more than two times higher than that of neat [BMIM][BF4]; (2) the capacitance of EDLs near negative electrodes (with BMIM+ ion as the counter-ion) is smaller than that near positive electrodes (with BF4− as the counter-ion) although the closest approaches of both ions to the electrode surface are nearly identical.
Circulating Cell-Free DNA Is a Non-Invasive Marker of Heart Transplant Rejection

s S85 Methods: We reviewed all patients with end-stage RCM who had LVAD implantation from 01/2008 until 08/2013 at our institution. The primary outcome was defined as all-cause mortality or heart transplantation. RCM was defined according to endomyocardial biopsy results or by the presence of echocardiographic characteristics of restrictive physiology. The study cohort consisted of 28 patients (71% males) with end stage RCM (10 Amyloidosis (36%), 8 Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (28.5%), 5 Sarcoidosis (18%), 4 Chemotherapy or Radiation induced cardiomyopathy (14%) and 1 Fabry disease (3.5%)) who underwent LVAD implantation either as BTT (n= 19, 68%) or destination therapy (DT) (n= 9, 32%). Average age at the time of implant was 57± 13 years. Results: The total 1 year survival was 56% and mean survival time was 547 days, in hospital mortality was 14%. 10 patients underwent heart transplantation with 100% survival during follow up period. Sub analysis to compare amyloid patients vs. non-amyloid patients revealed significant differences in age at implant (66.5±10 vs. 52±11.5, p< 0.05), male gender (10 patients (100%) vs. 10 patients (56%), p< 0.05), left ventricular (LV) end diastolic dimensions (46±10 vs. 58±10 mm, p< 0.05) and in the ratio DT/BTT (n= 6/4 (60%/40%) vs. n= 3/15 (17%/83%), p< 0.05). There were no differences in mean survival time between the groups. Cox regression analysis revealed significant association between LV end diastolic and end systolic dimensions and mortality (RR= 0.94, p< 0.05; RR= 0.95, p< 0.05, respectively). Conclusion: LVAD is a feasible and life saving therapy for end stage heart failure related to RCM especially as a bridge to transplant in patients who would otherwise not survive. Larger LV dimensions may predict improved outcomes following implantation.
Terrorism in the year 2020: Examining the ideational, functional and geopolitical trends that will shape terrorism in the twenty-first century

The intelligence failures associated with the 9/11 attacks in the United States have emphasized the challenges government leaders face when trying to predict specific terrorist attacks. A complementary approach focuses on strategic forecasting, which prioritizes assessment of and response to longer-term trends that may shape the evolution of terrorism. Viewed from a historical perspective, terrorism has been influenced by three key drivers: ideational and ideological trends, functional developments, and geopolitical tensions and transitions. In this paper I follow these three drivers into the future as predicted by the National Intelligence Council (NIC)'s 2004 report, Mapping the Global Future, which identifies key trends that will shape the security environment to the year 2020. I highlight the trends that correspond to historical drivers of terrorism, and conclude that the enabling environment for terrorism will probably be robust and enduring well into the twenty-first century.
The influence of early parenting on child maltreatment

Resume JEUNE ÂGE DES PARENTS ET SEVICES a L'ENFANT—L'idee presidant a la recherche exposee ici etait de voir si la maternite a un âge tres jeune (A) favorisait la dysfonction resultant en sevices a enfant (B). Un deuxieme objectif etait de voir si le recours a l'Assistance Publique d'une part, la desintegration sociale d'autre part, avaient des liens avec (A) et (B). La base statistique consistait en 50 dossiers de familles avec sevices a l'enfant et 50 dossiers de familles sans sevices a l'enfant. On s'attendait a ce que les meres adolescentes, etant moins bien preparees a leur fonction de mere, eussent davantage tendance a maltraiter leur enfant, dans ces milieux socio-economiquement defavorises, que les meres plus âgees. Ce ne fut pas le cas. Cependant, comme on pouvait s'y attendre, il existe une forte correlation entre le degre de desorganisation sociale intra-familiale et les sevices ( Tau C = .57, p . desintegration sociale et familiale , quand il s'agit de determiner des priorites dans les besoins d'appui. L'âge des meres est moins important.
The effect of alloxan diabetes on experimental atherosclerosis in the rat

Abstract Rats made diabetic by alloxan were fed an anterogenic diet, and the incidence of aortic atherosclerosis was compared with that found in nondiabetic rats fed the same atherogenic diet in diabetic rats fed laboratory chow. Results indicate a more severe degree of aortic atherosclerosis in the diabetic-atherogenic diet group.
CASSM: a cellular system for very large data bases

This paper describes an on-going National Science Foundation sponsored project on the design and implementation of an associative memory system for handling large data base information storage and retrieval. The system uses a Clontext Addressed Segment Sequential Memory (CASSM) implemented on a head-per-track disc and an array of non-numeric microprocessors for processing data in parallel and in an associative manner. It provides hardware support to carry out Boolean searches, data base collection, and the execution of high-level data processing functions. It also contains facilities for processing data represented in several data models. The content and context addressing and parallel processing capabilities of CASSM offer potential solutions to several large data base problems. In this paper, the application view of CASSM is emphasized.
Recirculation reassessed : the impact of blood flow rate and the low-flow method reevaluated

The recognition that during hemodialysis the blood urea nitrogen level in a peripheral vein differs substantially from that in an artery has made invalid the conclusions of prior studies based on the standard (peripheral vein) means of calculating recirculation. The increase in recirculation associated with an increase in blood flow may be artifactual, as may the reported inaccuracy of the two-needle low blood flow technique for measuring recirculation. Using a stopflow technique to measure recirculation, a study was performed to reassess these issues. Sixteen patients were each studied once within the first 30 minutes of a standard hemodialysis session (mean, 3.78 hour) at routine blood flow (mean, 419 mL/min) and at 200 mL/min. Dialyzer afferent and efferent blood line samples were obtained, as were afferent samples after sequential, rapid reductions in blood flow to 200, 50, and 0 mL/min. The final two samples were obtained within 30 seconds of reducing blood flow to less than 200 mL/min. Blood flow had a significant ( P = 0.03) although clinically minor effect on recirculation (mean, 13.9% at 419 mL/min v 10.2% at 200 mL/min). The low blood flow technique yielded the same results as the stop flow technique (stop flow technique 13.9% v low blood flow technique 13.2% at 419 mL/min, P = 0.76). We conclude (1) that the increase in recirculation associated with increased blood flow is substantially less than has been reported previously and is minimal in a well-functioning access, and (2) that a modified low blood flow (50 mL/min) technique for measuring recirculation yields results equivalent to those obtained using the stop flow technique.
Cascading effects of host size and host plant species on parasitoid resource allocation

1. The bottom-up factors that determine parasitoid host use are an important area of research in insect ecology. Host size is likely to be a primary cue for foraging parasitoids due to its potential influence on offspring development time, the risk of multiparasitism, and host immunocompetence. Host size is mediated in part by host-plant traits that influence herbivore growth and potentially affect a herbivore's quality as a host for parasitoids. 2. Here, we tested how caterpillar host size and host plant species influence adult fly parasitoid size and whether host size influences wasp parasitoid sex allocation. We measured the hind tibia lengths and determined the sex of wasp and fly parasitoids reared from 11 common host species of polyphagous caterpillars (Limacodidae) that were in turn reared on foliage of seven different host plant species. 3. We also tested how host caterpillar species, host caterpillar size, and host and parasitoid phenology affect how the parasitoid community partitions host resources. We found evidence that parasitoids primarily partition their shared hosts based on size, but not by host species or phenology. One index of specialisation (d′) supports our observation that these parasitoids are quite generalised within the Limacodidae. In general, wasps were reared from caterpillars collected in early instars, while flies were reared from caterpillars collected in late instars. Furthermore, for at least one species of solitary wasp, host size influenced sex allocation of offspring by ovipositing females. 4. Host-plant quality indirectly affected the size attained by a tachinid fly parasitoid through its direct effects on the size and performance of the caterpillar host. The host plants that resulted in the highest caterpillar host performance in the absence of enemies also yielded the largest parasitoid flies, which suggests that host plant quality can cascade up to influence the third trophic level.
Controlled Etching of Au:SR Cluster Compounds

When Au:SR cluster compounds (R = (CH2)5CH3) with an Au metallic cluster core mass of ∼14 kDa (∼75 atoms, 1.1 nm equivalent diameter), are heated in neat dodecane−thiol solution under inert atmosphere, species with smaller Au core masses are formed, presumably by the removal of Au atoms from the outermost surface layer of the cluster's Au core. This process was monitored through laser desorption mass spectrometry, optical absorption spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction, where all three methods indicate a substantial decrease (>50%, by mass or number of Au atoms) in the size of the cluster compound's inorganic core. The optical absorption spectra and laser desorption mass spectra of the compounds generated by etching are strikingly similar to compounds previously separated without an etching step. The dual function of the thiol as both stabilizing adsorbate and efficient etchant sets this cluster (or nanocrystal) system apart from other metallic and semiconductor systems.
Inhibitor of Oocyte Maturation from Porcine Follicular Fluid: Further Purification and Evidence for Reversible Action

The. its vitro culture of porcine oocytes was used as a bioassay for inhibitory fractions from PM-b membrane filtration. Sephadex G-25 column chromatography and paper electrophoresis of porcine follicular fluid (FF1). A 100-fold purification ofthe inhibitor of oocyte meiosis from the PM-I Oconcensratc was achieved. The major inhibitory fraction had a molecular weight of less than 2,000. Freshly collected. unfractionased FF1 also contained inhibitory activity, with significant inhibition exhibited by fluids from small and medium sized follicles. The inhibition of maturation by unfractionased FF1. the PM-b filtrate and the inhibitory peak from the Sephadex column could be reversed when the inhibitory fraction was removed from oocyte cultures by 20-24 h after the initiation of culture. The modifications from previously reported purifications of the inhibitor from FF1 and the finding of a reversible arrest of porcine oocyte maturation are discussed.
Parathyroid hormone regulation of Na+,K+-ATPase requires the PDZ 1 domain of sodium hydrogen exchanger regulatory factor-1 in opossum kidney cells

It was demonstrated that expression of murine sodium hydrogen exchanger regulatory factor (NHERF-1) lacking the ezrin-binding domain blocks parathyroid hormone (PTH) regulation of Na + ,K + -ATPase in opossum kidney (OK) cells. The hypothesis that the NHERF-1 PDZ domains contribute to PTH regulation of Na + ,K + -ATPase was tested by comparison of PTH regulation of Na + ,K + -ATPase in wild-type OK (OK-WT) cells, NHERF-deficient OKH cells, OK-WT transfected with siRNA for NHERF (NHERF siRNA OK-WT), and OKH cells that were stably transfected with full-length NHERF-1 or constructs with mutated PDZ domains. OKH cells and NHERF siRNA OK-WT showed decreased expression of NHERF-1 but equivalent expression of ezrin and Na + ,K + -ATPase α 1 subunit when compared with OK-WT cells. PTH decreased Na + ,K + -ATPase activity and stimulated phosphorylation of the Na + ,K + -ATPase α 1 in OK-WT cells but not in NHERF-deficient cells. Rubidium ( 86 Rb) uptake was equivalent in OK-WT, OKH, and OKH cells that were transfected with all but the double PDZ domain mutants. PTH decreased 86 Rb uptake significantly in OK-WT but not in OKH cells. PTH also significantly inhibited 86 Rb uptake in OKH cells that were transfected with full-length NHERF-1 or NHERF-1 with mutated PDZ 2 but not in OKH cells that were transfected with mutated PDZ 1. Transfection with NHERF expressing both mutated PDZ domains resulted in diminished basal 86 Rb uptake that was not inhibited further by PTH. PTH stimulated protein kinase Cα activity and α 1 subunit phosphorylation in OK-WT but not in NHERF-deficient cells. Transfection of OKH cells with NHERF constructs that contained an intact PDZ1 domain restored PTH-stimulated protein kinase Cα activity and α 1 subunit phosphorylation. These results demonstrate that NHERF-1 is necessary for PTH-mediated inhibition of Na + ,K + -ATPase activity and that the inhibition is mediated through the PDZ1, not PDZ2, domain.
Is very high C-reactive protein in young adults associated with indicators of chronic disease risk?

Summary Background Cases with very high C-reactive protein (CRP > 10 mg/L) are often dropped from analytic samples in research on risk for chronic physical and mental illness, but this convention could inadvertently result in excluding those most at risk. We tested whether young adults with very high CRP scored high on indicators of chronic disease risk. We also tested intergenerational pathways to and sex-differentiated correlates of very high CRP. Methods Data came from Waves I (ages 11–19) and IV (ages 24–34) of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (N = 13,257). At Wave I, participants’ parents reported their own education and health behaviors/health. At Wave IV, young adults reported their socioeconomic status, psychological characteristics, reproductive/health behaviors and health; trained fieldworkers assessed BMI, waist circumference, blood-pressure, and medication use, and collected bloodspots from which high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) was assayed. Results Logistic regression analyses revealed that many common indicators of chronic disease risk — including parental health/health behaviors reported 14 years earlier — were associated with very high CRP in young adults. Several of these associations attenuated with the inclusion of BMI. More than 75% of young adults with very high CRP were female. Sex differences in associations of some covariates and very high CRP were observed. Conclusion Especially among females, the exclusion of cases with very high CRP could result in an underestimation of “true” associations of CRP with both, chronic disease risk indicators and morbidity/mortality. In many instances, very high CRP could represent an extension of the lower CRP range when it comes to chronic disease risk.
The Seductions of Strange and Painted Women

Representing mingles with what it represents, to the point where one speaks as one writes, one thinks as if the represented were nothing more than the shadow of the representer. A dangerous promiscuity and a nefarious complicity between the reflection and the reflected which lets itself be seduced narcissistically. In this play of representation, the point of origin become ungraspable. There are things like reflecting pools, and images, an infinite reference from one to the other, but no longer a source, a spring. There is no simple origin. Jacques Der rida, Of Gram mato logy
Bringing functional brain image analysis to the clinician: Initial assessment of an online interactive diagnostic aide

Image database extensions for functional brain images were assessed by asking clinicians questions about (i) diagnosis confidence level before and after using the software; (ii) expected and unexpected differences between patient and control images; and (iii) an overall rating of the future usefulness of this application in an everyday clinical setting. Examining the difference image of a patient compared to a normative group affects the clinicians' initial diagnosis of the patient in two-thirds of the cases. All three clinicians stated that the interface would be a useful tool when added to the clinical workup of a patient.
An Analysis of Higher-Order Thinking: Examining a Secondary Physics I Web-Enhanced Instructional Design.

This paper discusses a small-scale study assessing the extent to which the instructional design of a web-enhanced educational learning environment using the specific CMC discussion board tool facilitated higher-order thinking processes. The study was carried out in a secondary Physics I online module with 38 male and female high school students. Group discussion posts and final analyses data was coded and analyzed using the Garrison, Anderson, and Archer (2001) Community of Inquiry (CoI) model. Two raters coded over 311 discussion messages using the cognitive presence categories and indicators to determine the level of higher-order thinking processes. Each message was given a number relating to the model’s categories: 1= triggering , 2= exploration , 3= integration , and 4= resolution , plus an additional category of 5= social to determine the level of social presence. Results determined that 8% of participant groups’ postings moved to higher levels of thinking processes through the use of authentic learning activities, CMC discussion board tool, and teacher presence, however 32% could not move beyond exploration. Over 43% of student postings scored in the social category, an increased result than previous studies in higher education. Data also indicated 19 out of 38 that is 50% of the participants were able to score in the higher-order thinking levels on their final analyses rather than in the discussion thread. Well-designed online learning modules offering learners authentic learning activities, CMC collaborative tools, prompting questions, and teacher presence must be accompanied with precise structured directives for secondary learners to achieve higher levels of critical thinking within collaborative discussion groups. DOI: 10.2458/azu_itet_v1i1_manley
Feasibility Study of Photovoltaic Panels in Military Temporary Housing Structures

Energy consumption by the US Army is becoming an increasingly important issue. The cost of providing fuel to Army outposts in deployed environments is particularly expensive due to numerous precautions required to defend fuel convoys from enemy attacks. This work is part of the Army's Construction Engineering Research Laboratory (CERL) efforts to reduce the amount of energy consumed by temporary barracks structures commonly referred to as “B-Huts”. A prototype is being developed utilizing structurally insulated panels (SIP) and is referred to as a “SIP-Hut”. This paper explores the benefits of incorporating photovoltaic (PV) panels into the SIP-Hut's power system. Powering a SIP-Hut is a unique challenge because SIP-Huts are typically located in remote and dangerous locations and, in addition, are temporary structures. A main thrust of this work was to examine if PV could be economically beneficial within this unique environment and short time span. However, the findings from this study can be applied to other remote locations where fossil fuels are not readily available. The SIP-Hut was modeled, solar resources estimated and analysis was performed using Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewable (HOMER) software. Our analysis indicates that PV incorporation can have a significant positive impact on the amount of diesel fuel consumed and the overall cost of energy production.
USE OF SYENITE IN SEMIVITREOUS WARE, I (a) Physical Properties of Bisques and (b) a Glaze Containing Syenite

Results are given on the physical properties of eight bodies, comprising that of a typical semiporcelain and seven bodies incorporating different nepheline syenites, both singly and in combination with feldspar, respectively. The relative viscosities of four nepheline syenites, a typical potash feldspar, and a soda feldspar are compared at five different temperatures. This study is to be followed by comprehensive plant tests.
Communicating Methylmercury Risks and Fish Consumption Benefits to Vulnerable Childbearing Populations

Methylmercury is a known neurotoxin especially harmful to the fetus, infant, and child. Preventing exposure to this environmental toxin is best accomplished through consumer messages specifically adapted for local populations. Health care providers play an important role in the dissemination of information. The purpose of this article is to review the benefits and risks of fish consumption and identify strategies for presenting effective risk communication messages to vulnerable groups, particularly women of childbearing age.
Effects of the Contingency for Homework Submission on Homework Submission and Quiz Performance in a College Course.

Effects of the contingency for submission of homework assignments on the probability of assignment submission and on quiz grades were assessed in an undergraduate psychology course. Under an alternating treatments design, each student was assigned to a points condition for 5 of 10 quiz-related homework assignments corresponding to textbook chapters. Points were available for homework submission under this condition; points were not available under the no-points condition. The group-mean percentage of homework assignments submitted and quiz grades were higher for all chapters under the points condition than in the no-points condition. These findings, which were replicated in Experiment 2, demonstrate that homework submission was not maintained when the only consequences were instructor-provided feedback and expectation of improved quiz performance.
Structural Models for Dual Modality Data With Application to Network Tomography

We propose models for the joint distribution of two modalities for network flow volumes. While these models are motivated by computer network applications, the underlying structural assumptions are more generally applicable. In the case of computer network flow volumes, this corresponds to joint modeling for packet and byte volumes and enables computer network tomography, whose goal is to estimate characteristics of source-destination flows based on aggregate link measurements. Network tomography is a prototypical example of a linear inverse problem on graphs. We introduce two generative models for the relation between packet and byte volumes, establish identifiability of their parameters, and discuss different estimating procedures. The proposed estimators of the flow characteristics are evaluated using both simulated and emulated data. Finally, the proposed models allow us to estimate parameters of the packet size distribution, thus providing additional insights into the composition of network traffic.
English Workers' Real Wages: Reply to Crafts

We are, of course, pleased the "English Workers' Living Standards during the Industrial Revolution" has attracted the critical eye of N. F. R. Crafts.' His comment makes three assertions: first, that his cost of living index is better than ours; second, that the macro implications of our index cannot be believed; and third, that his criticisms affect our conclusions. We disagree with all three assertions, although his suggestions have helped us improve our cost-of-living index.
Suppression of Lateral Phase Separation in Thin Polyolefin Blend Films

The effectiveness of a compatibilizer in suppressing lateral phase separation in thin polyolefin blend films is investigated as a function of film thickness and temperature. Neutron and X-ray reflectivity measurements were made on spun-cast thin blend films of partially deuterated and hydrogenated polyolefin blends with and without diblock compatibilizer. We use an extended silicon surface passivating treatment. Under these biased symmetric wetting conditions (air vs hydrophobic Si), binary blend films are stabilized against both dewetting from the substrate and roughening of the surface due to phase separation when the film thickness (25 nm) is on the order of the molecular radius of gyration. However, thicker (100 nm) films exhibit lateral phase separation that can be suppressed by the addition of block copolymer compatibilizer. This stabilization effect can be attributed to the reduction of interfacial tension leading to a broadening of interfaces, and additionally, the presence of diblock copolymer in both phases alters their surface interactions. On longer time scales, optical micrographs show the development of large-scale features over the course of a year in the molecularly thin blend films and in the ternary thin film (stored under vacuum). A droplet morphology is observed for molecularly thin blend films, and an interconnected domain structure characteristic of the early and intermediate stages of phase separation is observed for the ternary thin blend film. The phase separated structure obtained for the binary thin blend film does not evolve with time. Our results indicate that one also needs to account for kinetics in order to develop a comprehensive understanding of the structure of thin blend films. In general, temperature has a weak effect on the profile development of compatibilized blend films.
Microprocessors in a digital system design curriculum

For some time now, the notion that "an algorithm is an algorithm" has been emphasized in digital system design. In approaching such design problems, the question of hardware versus software implementation of the algorithm should be left to the last. In fact, such approaches have not been viable until the advent of the microprocessor, and software design has seemingly gone its own way independently of hardware design. But has it really? It is becoming increasingly clear that structured approaches to the design of digital systems, hardware or software, have evolved in both areas and are virtually identical. It is possible to teach a course on digital system design so that a diverse group can understand and learn from each other's background. It is also possible to have a laboratory wherein realistic projects can be undertaken. In this paper, the digital system design sequence and laboratory facilities at Northwestern University will be discussed. Also, desirable design tools will be postulated.
Depth of post-depositional remanence acquisition in deep-sea sediments: a case study of the Brunhes-Matuyama reversal and oxygen isotopic Stage 19.1

Although post-depositional magnetization (PDRM) in deep-sea sediments appears to be acquired during the earliest stages of sediment compaction, the natural variability of the PDRM lock-in depth in deep-sea sediments is poorly understood and as yet unquantified. Here we consider variations in the relative stratigraphic positions of oxygen isotopic interglacial Stage 19.1 and the Brunhes-Matuyama (B/M) Chronozone reversal for eight deep-sea sediment cores. Results from a similar study of the displacement between a widespread microtektite layer and the B/M boundary are also included [1]. The PDRM lock-in depth and the temporal relationships between the B/M and Stage 19.1 datums can be determined from the offsets between the paleomagnetic and the isotopic (and microtektite) stratigraphies. For cores with sedimentation rates greater than 1 cm kyr-a, the depth offset between the paleomagnetic and isotopic datums is a linear function of sedimentation rate. A simple model (r 2 = 0.77) demonstrates that (1) PDRM acquisition occurs - 16 cm below the sediment surface, and (2) the B/M reversal occurs 6 kyr (4-2 kyr) after the Stage 19.1 datum, and the Stage 19.1 datum occurs 9 kyr ( 4- 3 kyr) after the deposition of the Australasian microtektite strewnfield. This example argues against simple geophysical models linking geomagnetic field reversals to climate change or impact events. The B/M boundary is anomalously deep (30-50 cm) in very low accumulation rate sediments (< 1 cm kyr -1) and this may reflect the unusual physical properties of these sediments. A review of the geotechnical literature suggests that very low accumulation rate sediments have sufficient time to develop enhanced interparticle rigidity (structural strength) which inhibits early compaction and, hence, PDRM acquisition.
Properties of aircraft tire materials

A summary is presented of measured elastomeric composite response suitable for linear structural and thermoelastic analysis in aircraft tires. Both real and loss properties are presented for a variety of operating conditions including the effects of temperature and frequency. Suitable micro-mechanics models are used for predictions of these properties for other material combinations and the applicability of laminate theory is discussed relative to measured values.
Alteration of the distribution of intermediate filaments in PtK1 cells by acrylamide II: Effect on the organization of cytoplasmic organelles

The distribution and motility of cytoplasmic particles was examined in PtK1 cells in which intermediate filament networks had been disrupted by acrylamide. In these cells, particles (mitochondria and vesicles) accumulated near the cell center although saltatory movements continued. This left a broad sheet of agranular cytoplasm at the periphery of the cell. Particles were capable of movement into this sheet. Intermediate filaments were absent in the peripheral cytoplasm although microtubules remained in a normal configuration. Particles apparently move along the microtubules. These results indicate that particle movement along microtubules is not dependent upon the normal configuration of intermediate filaments. It is suggested that intermediate filaments are necessary for normal organelle distribution and serve as a matrix with which particles can associate to maintain position.
Influence of training and stage of search on gaze behavior in a library catalog faceted search interface

This study examined how searchers interact with a web-based, faceted library catalog when conducting exploratory searches. It appliedmultiple methods, including eye tracking and stimulated recall interviews, to investigate important aspects of faceted search interface use, specifically: (a) searcher gaze behavior--what components of the interface searchers look at; (b) how gaze behavior differs when training is and is not provided; (c) how gaze behavior changes as searchers become familiar with the interface; and (d) how gaze behavior differs depending on the stage of the search process. The results confirm previous findings that facets account for approximately 10-30% of interface use. They show that providing a 60-second video demonstration increased searcher use of facets. However, searcher use of the facets did not evolve during the study session, which suggests that searchers may not, on their own, rapidly apply the faceted interfaces. The findings also suggest that searcher use of interface elements varied by the stage of their search during the session, with higher use of facets during decision-making stages. These findings will be of interest to librarians and interface designers who wish to maximize the value of faceted searching for patrons, as well as to researchers who study search behavior.
Detection of some beta adrenergic blocking drugs and their metabolites in urine by thin layer chromatography.

Beta adrenergic blocking agents are readily identifiable in urine using thin layer chromatography. Because of the tremendous current and predicted future use of beta blockers, the presence of the drugs and their metabolites will become commonplace in urine and other biological fluids. A broadscreening system is described that relies on a sequence of four detection stages to differentiate beta blockers from other drugs, including some heart medications. The minimum detectible concentrations in urine of nine beta adrenergic blocking agents, the RF values in one solvent system, and color characteristics through four detection stages of the beta blockers and other common drugs are reported.
Blast-wave propagation in a spray

A first-order analysis is presented for the propagation of a blast wave through a dilute spray of non-reactive liquid droplets that are suspended in a non-reactive gas-phase carrier. The analysis permits straightforward computation of decay rates and internal wave structure for wave strengths in the approximate Mach number range 4 ≤ M s ≤ 15, and loading factors (mass of spray per unit mass of carrier) less than about 0·4. The droplets must be sufficiently small to completely change phase in a distance behind the shock that is at all times negligible compared with the wave radius. Representative calculations are presented and discussed. These show more rapid decay rates and higher pressures, densities, and particle velocities in two-phase blast waves when compared against equivalent gas-phase blast waves. A simplification of the analysis for the regime of higher wave Mach numbers (strong waves) is also given, which for that case allows direct algebraic calculation of early wave characteristics.
Expression and function of the bile acid receptor GpBAR1 (TGR5) in the murine enteric nervous system.

Background Bile acids (BAs) regulate cells by activating nuclear and membrane-bound receptors. G protein coupled bile acid receptor 1 (GpBAR1) is a membrane-bound G-protein-coupled receptor that can mediate the rapid, transcription-independent actions of BAs. Although BAs have well-known actions on motility and secretion, nothing is known about the localization and function of GpBAR1 in the gastrointestinal tract. Methods We generated an antibody to the C-terminus of human GpBAR1, and characterized the antibody by immunofluorescence and Western blotting of HEK293-GpBAR1-GFP cells. We localized GpBAR1 immunoreactivity (IR) and mRNA in the mouse intestine, and determined the mechanism by which BAs activate GpBAR1 to regulate intestinal motility. Key Results The GpBAR1 antibody specifically detected GpBAR1-GFP at the plasma membrane of HEK293 cells, and interacted with proteins corresponding in mass to the GpBAR1-GFP fusion protein. GpBAR1-IR and mRNA were detected in enteric ganglia of the mouse stomach and small and large intestine, and in the muscularis externa and mucosa of the small intestine. Within the myenteric plexus of the intestine, GpBAR1-IR was localized to �50% of all neurons and to >80% of inhibitory motor neurons and descending interneurons expressing nitric oxide synthase. Deoxycholic acid, a GpBAR1 agonist, caused a rapid and sustained inhibition of spontaneous phasic activity of isolated segments of ileum and colon by a neurogenic, cholinergic and nitrergic mechanism, and delayed gastrointestinal transit. Conclusions & Inferences G protein coupled bile acid receptor 1 is unexpectedly expressed in enteric neurons. Bile acids activate GpBAR1 on inhibitory motor neurons to release nitric oxide and suppress motility, revealing a novel mechanism for the actions of BAs on intestinal motility.