cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The evolution of a high copy gene array in Arabidopsis.

Local gene duplication is a prominent mechanism of gene copy number expansion. Elucidating the mechanisms by which local duplicates arise is necessary in understanding the evolution of genomes and their host organisms. Chromosome one of Arabidopsis thaliana contains an 81-gene array subdivided into 27 triplet units (t-units), with each t-unit containing three pre-transfer RNA genes. We utilized phylogenetic tree reconstructions and comparative genomics to order the events leading to the array’s formation, and propose a model using unequal crossing-over as the primary mechanism of array formation. The model is supported by additional phylogenetic information from intergenic spacer sequences separating each t-unit, comparative analysis to an orthologous array of 12 t-units in the sister taxa Arabidopsis lyrata, and additional modeling using a stochastic simulation of orthologous array divergence. Lastly, comparative phylogenetic analysis demonstrates that the two orthologous t-unit arrays undergo concerted evolution within each taxa and are likely fluctuating in copy number under neutral evolutionary drift. These findings hold larger implications for future research concerning gene and genome evolution.
A FLOQUET THEORY FOR FUNCTIONAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATION.

Introduction.-Let C denote the space of continuous functions from [-h, 01 into Rm, m-dimensional Euclidean spa.ce, h > 0, with the norm in C given by 111\ = max 1{(u) l, -h s, by x,(u) = x(t + u), -h s u s 0. With this notation (due to Hale4) and the above definitions, we may write the linear functional differential equation with periodic coefficients as follows:
Chronic food limitation of egg production in populations of copepods of the genus Acartia in the San Francisco estuary

Egg production of planktonic copepods, is commonly measured as a proxy for secondary production in population dynamics studies and for quantifying food limitation. Although limitation of copepod egg production by food quantity or quality is common in natural waters, it appears less common or severe in estuaries where food concentrations are often high. San Francisco Estuary, California, has unusually low concentrations of chlorophyll compared to other estuaries. We measured egg production rates of three species ofAcartia, with dominate the zooplankton biomass at salinity above 15 psu, on 36 occasions during 1999–2002. Egg production was determined by incubating up to 40 freshly collected individual copepods for 24 h in 140 ml of ambient water. Egg production was less than 10 eggs female−1 d−1 most of the year, but as high as 52 eggs female−1 d−1 during month-long spring phytoplankton blooms. Egg production was a saturating function of total chlorophyll concentration with a mean of 30 eggs female−1 d−1 above a chlorophyll concentration of 12±6 mg chl m−3. We take chlorophyll to be a proxy for total food ofAcartia, known to feed on microzooplankton as well as phytoplankton. These findings, together with long-term records of chlorophyll, concentration and earlier studies of abundance of nauplius larvae in the estuary, imply chronic food limitation ofAcartia species, with sufficient food for maximum egg production <10% of the time over the last 25 yr. These results may show the most extreme example of food limitation of copepod reproduction in any temperate estuary. They further support the idea that estuaries may provide suitable habitat forAcartia species by virtue of other factors than high food concentration.
(K+)-dependent acyl phosphatase as part of the (na+ + K+)-dependent ATPase of cell membranes.

Summary 1. A (K + )-dependent acetyl phosphatase (acyl phosphate phosphohydrolase, EC 3.6.1.7) activity of a (Na + + K + )-dependent ATPase (ATP phosphohydrolase, EC 3.6.1.3) preparation from cell membranes of guinea-pig kidney cortex was compared with the (Na + (Na + + K + )-dependent ATPase activity. 2. Of a variety of phosphate compounds tested only acetyl phosphate and carbamyl phosphate showed a (K + )-dependent hydrolysis which was comparable with the (Na + + K + )-dependent hydrolysis of ATP. 3. A close relationship was shown between the (K + )-dependent hydrolysis of acetyl phosphate and the (K + )-dependent part of the hydrolysis of ATP by the (Na + + K + )-dependent ATPase preparations. Both activities showed the following characteristics: K + could be replaced by Rb + Cs + , NH 4 + or Li + but not by Na + . The K m 's for Mg 2+ , K + , Rb + , NH 4 + and Li + were similar. The optimal pH was 7.8 for both. Both activities were inhibited by ouabain, Ca 2+ , Hg 2+ , and F − with similar K i 's, They had similar activation energies. ATP and acetyl phosphate were each competitive inhibitors of the other as substrate. 4. These close relationships suggest that the (K + )-dependent acetyl phosphatase activity arises from the (Na + + K + )-dependent ATPase system and that an acyl phosphate may be a functional intermediate in the system.
Posttransition state desolvation of the hydrophobic core of the src-SH3 protein domain.

Abstract The folding thermodynamics of the src-SH3 protein domain were characterized under refolding conditions through biased fully atomic molecular dynamics simulations with explicit solvent. The calculated free energy surfaces along several reaction coordinates revealed two barriers. The first, larger barrier was identified as the transition state barrier for folding, associated with the formation of the first hydrophobic sheet of the protein. ϕ values calculated from structures residing at the transition state barrier agree well with experimental ϕ values. The microscopic information obtained from our simulations allowed us to unambiguously assign intermediate ϕ values as the result of multiple folding pathways. The second, smaller barrier occurs later in the folding process and is associated with the cooperative expulsion of water molecules between the hydrophobic sheets of the protein. This posttransition state desolvation barrier cannot be observed through traditional folding experiments, but is found to be critical to the correct packing of the hydrophobic core in the final stages of folding. Hydrogen exchange and NMR experiments are suggested to probe this barrier.
Characterization of binding of [3H]GBR 12935 (1-[2-(diphenylmethoxy)ethyl]-4-(3-phenylpropyl)-piperazine) to membranes and to solubilized membrane extracts from terminal field regions of mesolimbic, mesocortical and nigrostriatal dopamine pathways.

The binding characteristics of [3H]GBR 12935 (1-[2-(diphenylmethoxy)ethyl]-4-(3-phenyl-propyl)piperazine), a selective dopmaine uptake inhibitor, were examined in intact membrane preparations and solubilized extracts of terminal field regions of dopamine pathways in the brain of the rats. There were many similarities in the properties of binding sites for [3H]GBR 12935 in the striatum, nucleus accumbens and olfactory tubercle. The binding of [3H]GBR 12935 was saturable and the affinity constants were not significantly different between regions of the brain. The binding of [3h]GBR 12935 was inhibited by amfonelic acid, GBR 12909, mazindol, methylphenidate and cocaine, with comparable affinities in each region of the brain and with the same order of potency in both preparations. Furthermore, the rank order of potencies for inhibiting the binding of [3H]GBR 12935 was the same as for inhibiting the uptake of [3H]dopamine in these regions of the brain. There did appear to be some degree of heterogeneity of binding sites for [3H]GBR 12935 in each of these regions of the brain, as both amfonelic acid and mazindol were best fitted by two-site models. Whether this apparent heterogeneity was due to the existence of two distinct binding sites or to two components of a single site is unclear. It did not, however, appear to be due to binding to uptake sites for norepinephrine or serotonin, as neither nisoxetine nor fluoxetine, selective inhibitors of the uptake of norepinephrine and serotonin, respectively, inhibited the binding of [3H]GBR 12935, at concentrations which inhibit the uptake of norepinephrine or serotonin.
Low-power adaptive RF system design using real-time fuzzy noise-distortion control

Earlier research has demonstrated that the power in a RF front-end can be traded off for performance in real-time to operate at the threshold of acceptable operation using a lookup table driven controller. Such a controller needs careful calibration and suffers from modeling inaccuracies which must be guardbanded during real-time operation resulting in "less than optimal" power consumption. In this work we propose a real time fuzzy noise-distortion control algorithm for low-power adaptation of the RF front-end to continuously changing channel conditions. As opposed to prior techniques, the proposed control algorithm handles adaptation to channel attenuation and fading as well as in-band and out- of- band interference, taking advantage of signal and interferer estimation techniques that are already incorporated in modern transceivers. In the proposed technique, the RF front-end controller automatically finds an optimal power-performance trade-off point in real-time across a large gamut of channel conditions. It is seen that about 23% savings in power consumption can be obtained over RF systems that are not capable of real-time adaptation.
Big data: Distilling meaning from data

Buried in vast streams of data are clues to new science. But we may need to craft new lenses to see them, explain Felice Frankel and Rosalind Reid.
Impact of sample preparation on the determination of crude fat content in corn

Sample preparation is an important step in any analysis as it directly affects the assay results. The effect of sample preparation on the extraction of crude fat from 10 corn samples with varying fat content was studied. Samples were ground on seven different grinders, namely, the Mega-grinder, Knifetec, Cyclotec, Cemotec, Mikro-mill, UDY, and Brinkmann-Retsch mill. The crude fat was extracted from ground samples using Soxtec and/or Butt-tube extraction procedures and was determined gravimetrically after evaporation of the extraction solvent. The lowest amount of crude fat was extracted from samples ground on a Cemotec grinder. However, similar yields of crude fat were obtained with the other six sample preparation mills by using the proper screen size and grinding conditions. We observed an increase of 0.3% in the grand mean of crude fat extracted from samples ground on a Cyclotec grinder fitted with a 1.0-mm screen as compared with a 2.0-mm screen. Modifying the grinding time from 5 to 10 s/cycle and increasing the number of cycles from 2 to 3 resulted an increase of 0.4% in the grand mean of crude fat extracted from 10 corn samples. No significant differences were observed in crude fat content when samples were ground with a Monsanto-built Mega-grinder, located at two different sites. The efficiency of crude fat extracted from ground samples was found to increase with the decrease in particle size.
The incidence of spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage with change in barometric pressure

The authors' observation of an apparent increased incidence of patients presenting with spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) during stormy weather prompted them to retrospectively review admissions data during an 18-month period to look for an association between SAH and changes in barometric pressure (BMP). Of the 39,049 cases examined, 76 had confirmed SAH. Continuous graphs of BMP were used to categorize days as being "flat" days (change in BMP 0.15; dpHg). Days on which patients presented with SAH were significantly correlated with change days (P < .004). There was significantly more SAH during the winter months (October to March), than during the remaining summer months (P < .02). The correlation of SAH with change in BMP did not hold if these summer months were examined alone. The risk ratio of having an SAH on an inclement day during the winter months was 1.99 (95% confidence interval, 1.11 to 3.60). The reason for this association is not clear at this time.
Kinetics of ultrasonically induced coalescence within oil/water emulsions: Modeling and experimental studies

A model for the coalescence of the oil phase within aqueous emulsions driven by the application of a low-intensity, resonant ultrasonic field has been developed. Under the application of a resonant ultrasonic field, the density and compressibility difference between the dispersed and continuous phases results in a net force that pushes droplets toward pressure antinodes where coalescence subsequently occurs. A mathematical model that determines the relative transport of two individual droplets under the action of acoustic and other relevant forces was recently published. That approach is utilized here in the development of a population balance model which predicts global coalescence rates and the evolution of the droplet size distribution under the influence of the ultrasonic field. These results are experimentally validated and good qualitative agreement between model predictions and experimental observations of the evolution of the droplet size distribution is observed. Discrepancies between the experimental and modeling results are attributed to spatial non-uniformities in the acoustic field utilized in the experiments and the associated lateral radiation forces. The contribution of these forces to overall coalescence rates is described in terms of an effective strength of the acoustic field within the acoustic chamber.
Disparities in pregnancy healthcare utilization between Hispanic and non-Hispanic white women in Rhode Island.

Low healthcare utilization is a prime contributor to adverse health outcomes in both the general population and the Hispanic community. This study compares background characteristics and rates of prenatal and postpartum health care utilization between Hispanic and non-Hispanic white women. Using the Rhode Island Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS), 2002–2008, we assess rates of prenatal and postpartum healthcare utilization relevant to maternal and neonatal care. Associations between maternal ethnicity and adequacy of health care utilization were quantified using survey weighted multivariable logistic regression. Compared with non-Hispanic white women, Hispanic women were younger (less than 24 years, 43.8% vs. 25.2%), had less education (less than 12 years of education, 38.2% vs. 10.6%), lower annual income levels (incomes less than $19,999, 72.2% vs. 21.7%), and lower insurance rates before pregnancy (47.8% uninsured vs. 12.8%). Hispanic women had higher odds of having delayed prenatal care (AOR 1.84, 95% CI 1.27–2.65) or inadequate prenatal care (AOR 2.01, 95% CI 1.61–2.50), and their children had higher odds of not having a 1-week check-up (AOR 1.73, 95% CI 1.21–2.47) or any well-baby care (AOR 3.44, 95% CI 1.65–7.10). Disparities in inadequate prenatal care and not having any well-baby care remained significant after adjusting collectively for age, marital status, education, income, and insurance status of mother and newborn. Although many previously uninsured women became insured during pregnancy, disparities in healthcare utilization remained. Interventions focusing on reducing barriers to access prior to and during pregnancy should consider potential structural, informational, and educational barriers.
Antecedent Upstream Air Trajectories Associated with Northwest Flow Snowfall in the Southern Appalachians

Abstract Northwest flow snow (NWFS) events are common occurrences at higher elevations and on windward slopes in the southern Appalachians. Low temperatures and considerable blowing and drifting of snow, coupled with significant spatial variability of snowfall, substantially increase societal impacts. This paper develops a synoptic classification of NWFS events in the southern Appalachians using 72-h antecedent upstream (backward) air-trajectory analyses. Hourly observations from first-order stations and daily snowfall data from cooperative observer stations are used to define snowfall events. NCEP–NCAR reanalysis data are utilized to identify NWFS events on the basis of 850-hPa northwest flow (270°–360°) at the event maturation hour. The NOAA Hybrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory tool is used to calculate 72-h backward air trajectories at the event maturation hour and composite trajectories are mapped in a geographic information systems format. Analyses of vertical soundings are coupled...
Quantitative assessment of photoacoustic tomography systems integrating clinical ultrasound transducers using novel tissue-simulating phantoms

Photoacoustic Tomography (PAT) systems based on commercial ultrasound instruments have the benefit of dualmodality imaging, which increases their appeal from a clinical standpoint. However, factors that influence PAT system performance have not been thoroughly investigated and standardized test methods have not been established for image quality evaluation. To address these issues we have adapted phantom-based approaches from ultrasound imaging standards and implemented them to assess a PAT system developed for vascular imaging. Our system comprises a tunable near-infrared pulsed laser and a commercial ultrasound imaging system, including four interchangeable linear array clinical ultrasound transducers with varying center frequencies, acoustic bandwidths and geometries. Phantoms consisted of a customized polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastisol gel that simulates both optical and acoustic properties of breast tissue. One phantom incorporates a sub-resolution filament array suitable for bimodal ultrasound-photoacoustic imaging, while another contains an array of hemoglobin-filled cylindrical inclusions at various depths. Key performance characteristics were evaluated, including spatial resolution, signal uniformity, contrast, and penetration depth. These characteristics were evaluated at 750 nm at radiant exposures below ANSI safety limits. Effects of transducer properties on imaging performance were evaluated. Axial and lateral resolution ranged from 0.27-0.83 mm and 0.28-1.8 mm, respectively, and penetration depths from 1.9-4.2 cm were achieved. These results demonstrate variation in PAT system performance based on clinical transducer selection, as well as the utility of realistic phantom-based test methods in performing benchtop evaluations of system performance.
High resolution mass spectrometry. Bufadienolides—II.

Complete low resolution mass spectra and some high resolution data are presented and discussed for a series of naturally occurring 14β-hydroxy bufadienolides (toad venoms) and their derivatives, but excluding compounds with a 14β,15β-epoxy group. The bufadienolides employed were bufalin, bufotalin, gamabufotalin, telocinobufagin, arenobufagin, 3β-acetoxybufotalien, 3β-acetoxyhellebrigenin, 3β-acetoxybufalin, 3-ketobufalin, 14-anhydrobufalin, 3β-acetoxy-15-ketobufalin and 15α-hydroxybufalin. The relatively unsaturated 2-pyrone functionality at C-17β has been used as an integral label to distinguish (from elemental composition data) ions containing it, from those coming from other parts of the molecule that do not. Structural ‘ion types’ are proposed to interpret this spectral data, and the prognosis for structure elucidation of other bufadienolides by high resolution mass spectrometry appears good.
CO2 laser ablation and balloon dilation for acquired nasopharyngeal stenosis: A novel technique

Objectives/Hypothesis: Although acquired nasopharyngeal stenosis (NPS) is frequently attributed to infectious and granulomatous processes, it can also occur secondary to external beam radiation therapy for head and neck cancer. NPS can be treated with local flaps, laser excision, nasal stenting, and combinations thereof. Unfortunately, the postoperative course is frequently complicated by scarring and restenosis that often necessitates multiple revision surgeries. The objective of this study is to report a novel endoscopic approach, employing the use of a flexible CO2 laser in combination with balloon dilation and mitomycin-C application, allowing for the successful treatment of acquired NPS with lasting results. Study Design: Retrospective review of case series. Methods: An endoscope with a working channel is passed transnasally to the location of nasopharyngeal stenosis. A flexible CO2 laser fiber is then inserted via the working channel of the scope. Precise radial incisions are made on the stenosis using the laser under direct visualization. The laser is removed, and a controlled radial expansion balloon dilation device is inserted, advanced to span the segment of stenosis, and inflated to achieve adequate dilation. Mitomycin-C is then applied topically to the area of dilation. Results: Three patients with severe NPS were treated using this novel technique. All patients had successful long-lasting dilation of NPS without complications over a follow-up period ranging from 12 to 18 months. Conclusions: Acquired NPS can be successfully treated with durable results with radial laser incisions and controlled radial expansion balloon dilation.
l-Arginine Restores Dilator Responses of the Basilar Artery to Acetylcholine During Chronic Hypertension

Abstract The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that administration of l-arginine, a substrate for nitric oxide synthase, restores acetylcholine-induced dilatation of the basilar artery in chronically hypertensive rats. Basilar artery diameter was measured through a cranial window in anesthetized stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRSP) and normotensive Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY) aged 6 to 7 months (adult) and 12 months (older adult). Under control conditions, baseline basilar artery diameter was smaller in SHRSP (adult, 239±30 μm; older adult, 198±13 μm) (mean±SE) than in WKY (adult, 261±10 μm; older adult, 259±7 μm) ( P −5 mol/L) produced dilatation of the basilar artery in WKY, which was impaired in both adult and older SHRSP ( P −3 mol/L for 30 minutes) did not affect responses to acetylcholine in adult SHRSP but enhanced vasodilatation in response to acetylcholine (10 −5 mol/L) in older SHRSP without affecting responses to sodium nitroprusside. In contrast, d-arginine did not affect acetylcholine-induced vasodilatation in older SHRSP. These results suggest that impaired dilatation of the basilar artery in response to acetylcholine in older SHRSP is restored toward normal by l-arginine, a substrate for nitric oxide synthase.
Relationship between sprouting in wheat and embryo response to endogenous inhibition

Seed dormancy in wheat (Triticum aestivum L. em Thell) is important for minimizing pre-harvest sprouting. To facilitate breeding cultivars that tolerate pre-harvest sprouting conditions, we assessed mode and magnitude of variation of seed dormancy among genotypes and investigated involvement of endogenous water-soluble inhibitor(s) in seed germination. Embryo bio-assays established that water-soluble inhibitor was ubiquitous among the wheat cultivars studied and did not diminish in quantity during after-ripening. Germination response of embryos was decreased by endogenous inhibitor, but the effect markedly declined as embryos aged at room temperature. Variation in dormancy among cultivars was primarily caused by differential response of their embryos to endogenous inhibitor. Gibberellic acid counteracted the initial inhibitory effect of endogenous inhibitor on germination but not the subsequent inhibitory effect on seedling growth. We concluded that pre-harvest sprouting resistance involves multiple factors, particularly embryo receptivity to endogenous inhibitor, and that variation in inhibitor quantity is not solely responsible for genotypic differences in susceptibility to pre-harvest sprouting. The possibility of additional approaches to breeding for pre-harvest sprouting resistance is indicated.
Hard-meson current algebra analysis of the Kl3 decay

Abstract A hard-meson calculation of the K l 3 , K ∗ and κ decays is given based upon (i) chiral SU(3) × SU(3) current algebra, (ii) pion and kaon PCAC, (iii) single meson saturation, (iv) approximation of meson vertices by low-order polynomials in momentum. No a priori assumption on the size of SU(3) or chiral breakdown, or type of chiral breakdown, is made. The possible existence of a κ-meson is included by (v) the PCVC condition on the strangeness changing vector current. If ƒ + (0) takes on its SU(3) symmetric value (ƒ + (0) ≈ 1.0) then large breakdown of chiral invariance exists, while the chiral symmetric value (ƒ + (0) ≈ 0.86) implies large breakdown of SU(3). A value of λ + consistent with the K l 3 data and yielding also the correct K ∗ width if one uses the chiral symmetric ƒ + (0) can be obtained, and implies the vanishing of the K ∗ -K-π vertex asymptotically. If no κ-meson exists, the theory requires both |ξ| and λ − to be small. This is also generally the case if a κ meson exists and one assumes a (3 ∗ , 3) + (3, 3 ∗ ) form of chiral breakdown. A large |ξ| and small λ − (which is consistent with both the polarization and the most recent branching ratio determinations) can only be achieved if both a κ-meson exists and one violates the (3 ∗ , 3) + (3, 3 ∗ ) assumption. The theory than also predicts a κ width in agreement with recent data. It is further shown that the hard meson assumption are inconsistent with both a large |ξ| and a large λ − , and that the Callan-Treiman relation may be in error by as much as 50% (due to the presence of non-gentle terms in the K l 3 amplitude).
The treatment of hay fever with gelatin-pollen extracts

Abstract 1.1. A gelatin-pollen extract was prepared by combining the standard aqueous pollen extract with a gelatin mixture autoclaved at 20 pounds pressure for one and one-fourth hours. 2.2. This gelatin-pollen extract jells at 5° C., but is much less viscous at room temperature than the previously described gelatin mixture. It is, therefore, easier to handle in the hypodermic syringe and needle. 3.3. This improved gelatin-pollen extract shows the slow absorption rate characteristic of the previously reported gelatin-pollen extract. 4.4. The gelatin-pollen extract is especially useful for the treatment of patients so sensitive as to accept poorly the usual aqueous pollen therapy.
Ac- and dc-driven noise and I-V characteristics of magnetic nanostructures

We study a structure consisting of a ferromagnetic (F) layer coupled to two normal metal (N) leads. The system is driven out of equilibrium by the simultaneous application of external dc and ac voltages across the N/F/N structure. Using the Keldysh diagrammatic approach, and modeling the ferromagnet as a classical spin of size S >> 1, we derive the Langevin equation for the magnetization dynamics and calculate the noise correlator. We find that the noise has an explicit frequency dependence in addition to depending on the characteristics of the ac and dc drive. Further, we calculate the current-voltage characteristics of the structure to O(1/S^2) and find that the nonequilibrium dynamics of the ferromagnetic layer gives rise to corrections to the current that are both linear and nonlinear in voltage.
Bulk Gold-Catalyzed Reactions of Diazoalkanes with Amines and O2 to Give Enamines

Bulk gold powder, consisting of approximately 5–50 μm particles, catalyzes reactions of diazoalkanes E(H)C=N2, where E is CO2Et or PhC(O), with amines R1R2NH and O2 to give enamine products (R1R2N)(E)C=CH(E) in 58–94% yield. The reactions are proposed to occur by initial formation of surface-bound (E)(H)C: carbene groups that are attacked by nucleophilic amines. The enamine products are very different than those obtained in reactions catalyzed by homogeneous transition metal complexes. These reactions of diazoalkanes, amines, and O2 represent a new type of bulk gold-catalyzed reaction.
The four-helix bundle: An attractive fold

Abstract A convergence of evidence suggests the core of 4-α-helix bundles is an important structural motif of volatile anesthetic targets. However, structural detail of such sites in natural proteins remains elusive. We screened over 80 soluble proteins for anesthetic binding, and found that ferritin, a 24-mer of 4-α-helix bundles, binds halothane with KA values of ∼ 105 M− 1, higher than any previously reported inhaled anesthetic–protein interaction. The crystal structures of the 1.7 A halothane/apoferritin complex revealed a binding pocket within an interhelical dimerization interface. The high affinity is explained by favorable entropy and enthalpy, but the acidic proton does not appear to contribute to binding. Halothane produced no detectable alteration of structure or B factors. The remarkably high affinity of the anesthetic/apoferritin complex implies greater selectivity of protein sites than previously thought, and also suggests that direct protein actions may underlie effects at lower than surgical levels of anesthetic, including loss of awareness.
Maximal Proliferation of Cytotoxic T Lymphocytes Requires Reverse Signaling through Fas Ligand

Fas ligand (FasL/CD95L) is best known for its role in delivering apoptotic signals through its receptor, Fas (APO-1/CD95). In this study, we present evidence that FasL has a second role as a signaling receptor. Alloantigen-specific proliferation by multiple FasL− murine CTL lines is depressed compared to that of FasL+ CTL lines. FasL− CTLs kill efficiently on a per recovered cell basis and can achieve wild-type levels of proliferation upon stimulation by optimal doses of anti-CD3, suggesting the lack of a costimulatory signal during antigen stimulation. To test this hypothesis directly, soluble FasIgG, a fusion protein of murine Fas and human IgG1, was added to FasL+ CTLs to demonstrate that blocking cell surface Fas–FasL interactions mimics the depression observed for FasL− CTLs. In addition, plate-bound FasIgG in conjunction with suboptimal anti-CD3 stimulation augments proliferative signals in FasL+ but not FasL− CTLs. In contrast to these results with CD8+ T cells, alloantigen-stimulated FasL− CD4+ T cells proliferate vigorously compared to FasL+ cells. These data demonstrate that reverse signaling through FasL is required for CTLs to achieve maximal proliferation and may provide clues to differences in the homeostatic regulation of activated CD4+ and CD8+ T cells during an immune response.
Returns to Overeducation: A Longitudinal Analysis in the U.S. Labor Market

Studies examining the wage effect of overeducation have generated very consistent results. Their findings suggest that, for workers with similar educational attainment, workers who are overeducated for the job suffer from significant wage penalties. However, most studies use cross-sectional data, implicitly assuming that workers are randomly assigned to being overeducated. Using data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics for the period 1979--2005, this study conducts a panel analysis to account for time-constant individual characteristics. It uses a numerical approach to provide the wage effects in the presence of non-classical measurement error in the educational mismatch variables. The results provide evidence that overeducated status does not cause lower earnings. Instead, the significant wage differential found in previous studies is simply a result of ignoring the nonrandom assignment of workers to jobs.
The Effect of Abuse in Childhood and in Adolescence on Violence among Adolescents

This study of 1,031 persons from five public high schools examined the relative effects of elements of control, strain, and social learning theories on violence among younger (less than 16 years of age) and older (16 years of age and older) adolescents. Of special interest were the differential effects of adult abuse during childhood and during adolescence on violence of these two age groups. Findings show that the effects of abuse by adults during childhood on violence are mediated by other study factors only among older adolescents. Attachments to female caregivers, self-esteem, and fathers' education have inverse relationships, while suicide attempts are positively related to violence only among adolescents 15 years of age or younger. Attachment to father, beliefs, and religiosity are inversely related to violence, whereas feelings of frustration and alienation are positively related to this outcome for both age groups. Implications for theory are discussed.
Multiple Sclerosis: Comparison of Trace Apparent Diffusion Coefficients with MR Enhancement Pattern of Lesions

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Diffusion-weighted MR imaging and the trace apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) provide important structural information about tissues. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between trace ADC values and the enhancement pattern of multiple sclerosis (MS) lesions. METHODS: Ninety-six lesions, identified in 24 patients with MS, were characterized by their enhancement pattern on contrast-enhanced T1-weighted MR images. There were 57 nonenhancing lesions (NELs), 28 homogeneously enhancing lesions (HELs), and 11 ring-enhancing lesions (RELs). The trace ADC means for each type of lesion and for normal-appearing white matter (NAWM) were calculated and compared using Student9s t-test. RESULTS: The mean trace ADC values for HELs (mean, 7.7 × 10−10 m2s−1; SD, 1.4 × 10−10 m2s−1) were less than those for RELs (mean, 1.2 × 10−9 m2s−1; SD, 3.5 × 10−10 m2s−1) and NELs (mean, 1.3 × 10−9 m2s−1; SD, 2.6 × 10−10 m2s−1). There was a significant difference between the mean trace ADC values of HELs and RELs as well as between those for HELs and NELs. There was also a significant difference in the mean trace ADC values between all lesion types and NAWM (mean, 6.9 × 10−10 m2s−1; SD, 5.0 × 10−11 m2s−1). CONCLUSION: We found a predictable relationship between mean trace ADC and the pattern of enhancement in MS lesions, corresponding to reported histopathologic differences in myelination between lesion types and magnetization transfer ratios.
Spontaneous left main coronary artery dissection, possibly due to cystic medial necrosis found in the internal mammary arteries

A 55-year-old male without previous medical history developed chest pain. Coronary catheterization showed left main coronary dissection. Coronary artery bypass grafting was performed using bilateral internal mammary arteries, which were very fragile. The specimens of the internal mammary arteries sent for pathology showed cystic medial necrosis.
The new age of new product development: are we there yet?

A three-questionnaire DELPHI issues study identifies and ranks in importance the top twenty-four management of technology (MOT) issues (unresolved problems) in new product development involving advanced technologies. The study was conducted because of a dearth of studies evaluating the relative importance of MOT problems that are shared across advanced-technology industries. The study relates each of the top ten MOT issues to the ‘new product development paradigm’ to help explain the importance of each issue. Discussion of participants’ comments provides insights into their concerns about each issue. Strategic Planning for Technology Products was identified as the top priority issue, but European and USA participants did not fully agree on the importance of several issues. The findings aid in identifying priority new product development research projects, and show R&D managers the extent to which specific MOT issues are of general concern among companies.
EFFECTS OF HABITAT COMPLEXITY AND COMPOSITION ON A DIVERSE LITTER MICROARTHROPOD ASSEMBLAGE

Oribatid mites (Acari: Oribatidae) are the most diverse arthropod group in forest litter and soil, and they make significant contributions to decomposition as microbial grazers and saprophages. As is true for all the hyperdiverse soil taxa, the determinants of their diversity and species composition are virtually unexplored. This experiment tests whether heterogeneity of the litter habitat is a determinant of their local diversity, and whether litter composition is a determinant of their species composition. At a single site of temperate deciduous forest at the Coweeta Hydrological Laboratory in the mountains of North Carolina, USA, natural litterfall was excluded from a series of 42 1-m2 plots and, for three consecutive years, replaced with treatment litters that varied in their composition and complexity. Plots of pure yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis), sugar maple (Acer saccharum), and red oak (Quercus rubra) litter comprised the monotypic or simple litter treatments. Two complex litters included a ...
The research career of Richard B. Stein (1940

This report reviews the research and mentoring career of Richard B. Stein (1940-). In 1962, he completed a B.S. degree in physics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA, and thereafter an M.A. (1964), Ph.D. (1966), and postdoctoral training (1966-68) at the University of Oxford, UK. He subsequently assumed a faculty position at the University of Alberta (Canada), where he is currently an active researcher and mentor. To this point in 2004, Stein has trained and collaborated closely with over 160 scientists, largely neuroscientists and biomedical engineers, from 27 countries. He and his former trainees and collaborators have made important contributions on topics that span the cellular-to-behavioral spectrum of movement and rehabilitation-prosthetics neuroscience. His mentors, trainees, and collaborators include scientists whose countries of origin are: Australia, 2; Austria, 1; Belgium, 1; Bulgaria, 1; Canada, 64; China, 6; Denmark, 1; Germany, 1; Great Britain, 16; Hong Kong, 4; India, 5; Iraq, 2; Italy, 2; Japan, 10; Kenya, 1; New Zealand, 4; Pakistan, 1; Palestine, 1; Poland, 1; Romania, 1; South Africa, 1; Sri Lanka, 1; The Netherlands, 1; Turkey, 1; Uruguay, 1; USA, 21; and Yugoslavia, 6. In all instances, Stein's research collaborations and mentoring have advanced the careers of his trainees and junior collaborators, a well-deserved and important compliment to a stellar movement neuroscientist.
An Affordable Software Defined Radio

This paper discusses the utilization of a relatively inexpensive wideband radio receiver in combination with a digital down-converter (DDC) based data recorder to capture and record real world radio signals. The resulting in-phase (I) and quadrature (Q) data files are then imported into MATLAB for processing. This batch processing of real world radio signals allows for a tremendous amount of classroom flexibility in the discussion of software defined radio topics.
Deep Hooking and Angling Success When Passively and Actively Fishing for Stream-Dwelling Trout with Baited J and Circle Hooks

Abstract Circle hooks are becoming commonplace in recreational fisheries because they often reduce deep hooking, but there has been little evaluation of their effectiveness in trout fisheries. To compare the occurrence of deep hooking and angling success rates for stream-dwelling trout, we used three baited hook types (i.e., inline circle hooks, inline J hooks, and 4°-offset J hooks) fished with two angling methods (i.e., active fishing, using a traditional bait fishing hook set; and passive fishing, with no sharp hook set). Of the 583 wild trout caught by anglers, 20% were deep hooked. The deep hooking rate varied by hook type and angling method, but the interaction term hook type × angling method was statistically significant, indicating that the effect of hook type could not be interpreted separately from fishing method. Accordingly, the occurrence of deep hooking was significantly greater for offset J hooks fished passively (28 ± 9% [95% CI about the mean]) and inline J hooks fished actively (27 ± 9%)...
The comprehension of ‘here’ and ‘there’

Comprehension of words like here and there demands an ability to take the speaker as reference point whether or not his position agrees with one's own. Because children are known to have difficulty taking another person's viewpoint into account, it was hypothesized that children would be able to understand here and there with the speaker as reference point only after they were able to understand the terms with self as reference point. Fifty children age 2;6–3;6 were presented with two toys spaced a few feet apart and asked ‘Which one is over here/there?’ There were three conditions: E and S both sat next to (1) the same toy; (2) a different toy; and (3) E sat next to one toy while the other toy was near no-one. Contrary to the hypothesis, it was found that children did not comprehend the words with self as reference point first. Instead, the words appear to be understood first I with respect to an inconsistent reference point before children learn that the reference point is always the speaker.
CD4+ T cells mediate mucosal and systemic immune responses to experimental hookworm infection

SUMMARY Hookworm infection is associated with anaemia and malnutrition in many resource-limited countries. Ancylostoma hookworms have previously been shown to modulate host cellular immune responses through multiple mechanisms, including reduced mitogen-mediated lymphocyte proliferation, impaired antigen presentation ⁄ processing, and relative reductions in CD4 + T cells in the spleen and mesenteric lymph nodes. Syrian hamsters were depleted of CD4 + for up to 9 days following intraperitoneal injection (200 lg) of a murine antimouse CD4 monoclonal IgG (clone GK1AE5). CD4 + T-cell
XSim :real-time analytic parallel simulations

Of critical importance to any real-time system is the issue of predictability. We divide overall system predictability into two parts: algorithmic and systemic. Algorithmic predictability is concerned with ensuring that the parallel simulation engine and model from a complexity point of view are able to consistently yield results within a real-time deadline. Systemic predictability is concerned with ensuring that OS scheduling, interrupts and virtual memory overheads are consistent over a real-time period. To provide a framework for investigating systemic predictability, we define a new class of parallel simulation called Extreme Simulation or XSim. An XSim is any analytic parallel simulation that is able to generate a statistically valid result by a real-time deadline. Typically, this deadline is between 10 and 100 milliseconds. XSims are expected to provide decision support to existing complex, real-time systems. As a new design and implementation methodology for realizing XSims, we embed a state-of-the-art optimistic simulator into the Linux operating system. In this operating environment, OS scheduling and interrupts are disabled. Given a 50 millisecond model completion deadline, we observe that the XSim has a systemic predictability, measure of 98% compared with only 56% for the same Time Warp system operating in user-level.
Diagnosis of intramammary infections at dry-off based on sampling strategy, epidemiology of pathogens, and agreement beyond chance

Isolation of pathogens from duplicate or multiple milk samples is currently considered the gold standard in diagnosis of bovine intramammary infections (IMI). However, in large field studies and especially in normal dairy production conditions, collection of single samples is often the most practical option to determine the causal agents of mastitis in a herd. The objective of the present study was to determine how well results between the first and the second sample in pairs of duplicate and successive quarter milk samples agree, using 5 different IMI definitions, based on the number of colony forming units (CFU) per milliliter of milk and epidemiology of the pathogens isolated. Agreement between microbiologic results from the first and the second sample of a pair was assessed by calculating the percentage of agreement and kappa coefficient. Milk samples collected at dry-off from 561 Holstein cows in 4 Ohio dairy herds were included in the analyses. Results of the study indicate that the agreement between the first and the second sample of a duplicate pair was high when criteria to call a sample positive was adjusted for the number of CFU/ml of milk by considering the epidemiology of different mastitis organisms. This finding suggests that an IMI can be accurately diagnosed with single samples. For contagious pathogens (Staphylococcus aureus) a cutoff of 100 CFU/ml and a cutoff of 1,000 CFU/ml for major environmental and minor pathogens will serve as a sensible approach to diagnose bovine IMI with single milk samples.
Synthetic studies toward the generation of uridine-amino alcohol-based small optimized libraries

An efficient synthesis of a versatile scaffold 3, anti-2-chloro-3- hydroxy ester can be achieved via a boron mediated diastereofacial anti-aldol reaction of 2-(N-methylbenzyl-N-2,4,6-trimethylbenzyl)-amino-1-phenylpropanol chloroester 1 and the uridyl aldehyde derivative 2. Generation of uridine-amino alcohol-based library is demonstrated by using the scaffold 3.
Densely packed arrays of metamaterial-inspired antennas

Two metamaterial-inspired electrically small antennas are designed, one an electric-based EZ antenna and the other a magnetic-based EZ antenna. These antennas are then combined in a highly subwavelength array, i.e., the distance of separation between the antennas is the radius of the radiansphere of each electrically small antenna. Reasonably high overall efficiency of this densely packed array is demonstrated.
Callous-Unemotional Features, Behavioral Inhibition, and Parenting: Independent Predictors of Aggression in a High-Risk Preschool Sample.

A behaviorally-uninhibited temperament, callous-unemotional (CU) features, and harsh parenting have been associated with specific patterns of aggressive behavior in older children and adolescents. We tested the additive and interactive effects of these factors in predicting different types of aggressive behavior in a high-risk preschool sample. Forty-nine preschoolers and their parents registering for Head Start programs were recruited for participation. Behavioral inhibition, CU features, and attitudes toward various types of parenting were assessed through parent rating scales completed at the time of registration. Behavioral inhibition, CU features, and aggression were assessed by teacher ratings approximately six months later. Analyses revealed that behavioral inhibition, CU features, and harsh parental attitudes all contributed independently to the prediction of aggressive behavior. These associations were strongest for proactive types of aggression. Our results suggest that a behaviorally uninhibited temperament, CU features, and attitudes favoring harsh parenting are all important for understanding the development of aggression in preschool children.
Medical rehabilitation in low and middle income countries for adult acquired disability: challenges posed by rapidity of health system change and position on the individualistic/collectivist axis.

Chronic illness prevalence has rapidly increased in low or middle income countries (LMIC) and with it, the need for medical rehabilitation for adults with acquired conditions that stem from aging and long-term conditions. While Western medical rehabilitation programs have had at least two generations to develop, in LMIC, post-acute health care delivery change has been much more rapid. As a result, there has been little opportunity for models of medical rehabilitation to deliberately emerge in LMIC that reflect societal values. While adaptation of an independence-foremost model of medical rehabilitation may succeed in non-Western societies, there is a risk that adaptation of such a model will be ineffective where many value collectivism more than individualism. The rapid change in medical rehabilitation service delivery in LMIC gives Christian providers and organizations an opportunity to pause and reflect whether the dominant Western medical rehabilitation paradigm serves LMIC cultures and reflects Biblical principles.