cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Heuristic identification of biological architectures for simulating complex hierarchical genetic interactions.

Simulation plays an essential role in the development of new computational and statistical methods for the genetic analysis of complex traits. Most simulations start with a statistical model using methods such as linear or logistic regression that specify the relationship between genotype and phenotype. This is appealing due to its simplicity and because these statistical methods are commonly used in genetic analysis. It is our working hypothesis that simulations need to move beyond simple statistical models to more realistically represent the biological complexity of genetic architecture. The goal of the present study was to develop a prototype genotype–phenotype simulation method and software that are capable of simulating complex genetic effects within the context of a hierarchical biology-based framework. Specifically, our goal is to simulate multilocus epistasis or gene–gene interaction where the genetic variants are organized within the framework of one or more genes, their regulatory regions and other regulatory loci. We introduce here the Heuristic Identification of Biological Architectures for simulating Complex Hierarchical Interactions (HIBACHI) method and prototype software for simulating data in this manner. This approach combines a biological hierarchy, a flexible mathematical framework, a liability threshold model for defining disease endpoints, and a heuristic search strategy for identifying high-order epistatic models of disease susceptibility. We provide several simulation examples using genetic models exhibiting independent main effects and three-way epistatic effects.
Pulse-shape discrimination for wide dynamic range neutron scattering experiments

Abstract The zero-crossing technique of pulse-shape discrimination, coupled with constant fraction timing and low-noise, low-walk amplification techniques, has been utilized to study pulse-shape discrimination over a dynamic range of 200:1. The system uses commercially available components throughout. It is shown that a figure of merit and the peak-to-valley ratio in the zero-crossing time distribution are simultaneously necessary to evaluate the effectiveness of a pulse-shape discrimination system operating over a large dynamic range. The combination of NE218 scintillator and bi-alkali photomultiplier tube provides superior pulse-shape discrimination characteristics as compared to the combination of NE213 scintillator and mono-alkali photomultiplier tube.
An optimization model and solution for radiation shielding design of radiotherapy treatment vaults

In radiation shielding design, one is usually faced with a set of conflicting goals that are navigated by an experienced physicist. If one has abundant space, the task is simplified because concrete is relatively inexpensive and will provide adequate shielding for high energy photons and neutrons, when applicable. However, if space is constrained (which is usually the case), the design becomes more difficult since one will likely have to employ combinations of steel, lead, and concrete, or other new materials—each with different properties and costs. Very experienced shielding designers can draw upon previous plans, but they do not know if their design is optimal in any sense. We have constructed a linear program that minimizes the cost of the shielding materials and minimizes the dose at the protection point or the shielding thickness subject to space constraints and to Federal or State regulations regarding the allowable exposure to individuals adjacent to the radiotherapy vault. In spite of what appears to be a simple model, the solution may require iterations of the optimization to arrive at the optimal solution.
In vitro and in vivo translational efficiencies of the 5' untranslated region from eight genotype 2 bovine viral diarrhea virus field isolates

We determined the in vitro and in vivo translational efficiency mediated by the internal ribosomal entry site (IRES) from eight BVDV2 field isolates varying in virulence using a bicistronic reporter vector in rabbit reticulocyte lysates (RRL), and in primate and bovine cell lines. Using a T7-promoter system, the high virulence isolates had greater translational efficiencies in bovine lymphocytes (BL-3 cells), than did the low virulence isolates. The low virulence isolates translated with greater efficiencies than the high virulence isolates in RRL, African green monkey kidney (CV-1) and bovine turbinate (BT) cells. Our results demonstrate that despite a high degree of sequence identity in the 5' untranslated region (UTR), subtle differences in the primary and secondary structures, as well as differences in cell lines, influence translational efficiencies.
Economic design of the specification region for multiple quality characteristics

Economic specification limits have typically been developed on the basis of a single quality characteristic. From the viewpoint of the customer, products are often evaluated based on multiple quality characteristics. The specification region for multiple quality characteristics must be determined on an economic basis where we minimize the total loss to both the producer and the customer and thus to the whole society. In this paper a multivariate normal distribution is considered for the quality characteristics. The specification region is given by truncating the multivariate normal distribution. We present the optimization model to develop the specification region for multiple quality characteristics based on the framework of multivariate quality loss function.
Issues and findings in the evaluation of occupational risk among women high nickel alloys workers

Background We present the mortality experience for a cohort of women (n = 2,877) from a large epidemiologic study of production and fabrication high nickel alloys workers (n = 31,165). All the plants were located within the United States and cohort eligibility required some work experience within the period of the late 1940s through the mid 1960s. Methods Vital status follow-up was through the end of 1988 and incorporated information from multiple sources. Cause-specific mortality was evaluated by comparing cohort mortality to the general United States female population and to local populations in geographic proximity to the plants. Relative risk estimates were determined for 62 cause of death categories using the Standardized Mortality Ratio (SMR) and were adjusted for age, race, gender, and calendar time by the indirect method using a modified life table technique. Results Relative risks for all causes (0.98), all cancers (0.90), lung cancer (1.34), and breast cancer (0.96) were nonsignificant when mortality was compared to the US female population. No relationship between mortality and length of time employed in the industry or work area was identified. Discussion Although there were some difficulties in tracing women due to name changes, comprehensive follow-up was obtained when using multiple sources of information. Our strategy resulted in resolving vital status for over 95% of the women, which is comparable to that of the male cohort. The type of jobs and work activities differed between genders. Females were employed predominantly in two work areas (allocated services, 87%, and grinding, 46%), whereas males were employed in several work areas (allocated services, 76%, grinding, 27%, hot working, 20%, and cold working, 17%). Considerable variation was noted among the study plants with respect to the percent of female production workers in the workforce. Generally, the patterns of relative risks derived for the total cohort and various subgroups are similar across the different comparison populations. Estimated elevated risks are usually lower when cohort mortality is compared to that of local populations. No increased risks were identified for any site-specific cancers or nonmalignant causes of death.
GLYCEROL INTOLERANCE: A NEW SYNDROME

A 3 yr old boy had numerous episodes of fatigue, irritability, pallor and sweating dating from 11 mo. of age when he had an episode of symptomatic hypoglycemia with ketonuria. His height and weight were below the 3rd percentile. No hepatomegaly or cataracts were found. Intellectual development, liver and renal functions, electrolytes, T4, hGH and cortisol values were normal. He manifested euphoria, mental confusion, drowsiness, nausea and vomiting 1-5 hrs after oral glycerol in doses of 0.5-1 gm/kg. Oral medium chain triglycerides (1 gm/kg) had similar effects. Once, oral glycerol (1 gm/kg) also provoked hypoglycemia with a decline in blood lactate. A 16 1/2 hr fast also induced hypoglycemia, unresponsive to glucagon. IV glycerol (0.09 gm/kg) induced an immediate loss of consciousness with no change in blood glucose. He recovered spontaneously after 30 min. IV fructose (0.25 gm/kg) was tolerated normally. Leukocytes showed normal activity for fructose-1, 6-diphosphatase, glycerol kinase and glycerol phosphate dehydrogenase. However, plasma dopamine β hydroxylase activities were low and fell significantly following IV or oral glycerol. The restriction of dietary fat intake improved his physical and mental activities. These observations suggest a unique, yet undefined metabolic intolerance to glycerol. Supported by grants from the John A. Hartford Foundation and NIH #HD 03959-06 and HD 06291-03.
Intergenerational Transmission of Violence, Threatened Egoism, and Reciprocity: A Test of Multiple Psychosocial Factors Affecting Intimate Partner Violence

A myriad of factors have been advanced to explain intimate violence. This study was undertaken to investigate the effects on intimate violence of three specific concepts: threatened egoism, violence in the family of origin, and reciprocity. Self-report questionnaires were administered to a randomly selected cluster sample of 423 participants, 147 males and 276 females. While no support was found for threatened egoism, both violence witnessed in the family of origin and reciprocity were found to significantly influence intimate violence. Analyses conducted separately for males and females indicated that these factors operate differently based on gender.
Who is really hurt anyway? The problem of soliciting designated organ donations.

In their article, “Examining the Potential Exploitation of UNOS Policies,” Zink, Wertlieb, Catalano, and Marwin (2005) appeal to familiar intuitions of utility and equity to argue against the curre...
Effects of Rice Straw Management on Sclerotium oryzae Inoculum, Stem Rot Severity, and Yield of Rice in California

Under continuous rice cropping, open field burning has been the primary means of rice residue disposal and of minimizing the carryover inoculum of Sclerotium oryzae, the cause of stem rot of rice. The phase down of open field burning in California has necessitated the development of alternatives to burning. In 1993, a continuous-year experiment was initiated in Colusa County to evaluate the effects of alternative residue management strategies on overwintering sclerotia of S. oryzae, stem rot incidence and severity, and yield. Treatments were arranged in a split-plot design with winter flooding and winter nonflooding as the main plots, and fall incorporation of the straw residue, rolling of the straw to enhance soil contact, baling and removal of residue, and fall burning as the subplots. S. oryzae inoculum and disease severity were significantly lower and yield was significantly higher in 5 out of 6 years in the winter-flooded main plots compared with the winter nonflooded plots. Over the duration of the trial, S. oryzae inoculum was consistently lower in burn subplots when compared with all other subplots. No consistent differences in disease incidence and severity or yield occurred in the subplots, although average yield over the 6 years was highest in burn subplots when compared with all other subplots. The results suggest that winter flooding is the best alternative to burning for stem rot management.
Integrating 'top-down" and "bottom-up" mass spectrometric approaches for proteomic analysis of Shewanella oneidensis.

Here we present a comprehensive method for proteome analysis that integrates both intact protein measurement (“top-down”) and proteolytic fragment characterization (“bottom-up”) mass spectrometric approaches, capitalizing on the unique capabilities of each method. This integrated approach was applied in a preliminary proteomic analysis of Shewanella oneidensis, a metal-reducing microbe of potential importance to the field of bioremediation. Cellular lysates were examined directly by the “bottom-up” approach as well as fractionated via anion-exchange liquid chromatography for integrated studies. A portion of each fraction was proteolytically digested, with the resulting peptides characterized by on-line liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry. The remaining portion of each fraction containing the intact proteins was examined by high-resolution Fourier transform mass spectrometry. This “top-down” technique provided direct measurement of the molecular masses for the intact proteins and thereby enabled...
The ISLAND module for computing magnetic island widths in tokamaks

The ISLAND module in the National Transport Code Collaboration (NTCC) Module Library computes the saturated widths of multiple magnetic islands due to neoclassical tearing modes by implementing a quasi-linear model that includes the effects of arbitrary aspect ratio. cross-sectional shape, and plasma beta. This paper presents a significantly improved version of the module available at the NTCC Library. The model was updated to include the distortion of islands caused by the radial variation of the perturbed magnetic field near the mode rational surface. The computer algorithm implemented by the module was redesigned to increase its speed, reliability and accuracy. The new module has been successfully interfaced with the BALDUR integrated modeling code, where it is used to compute the saturated widths of multiple islands in tokamak discharges.
Fresh market tomato yields as affected by deficit irrigation using a micro-irrigation system

Abstract Yield response of fresh market tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill) to different micro-irrigation amounts and timing was determined in 1970, 1971 and 1972. Total tomato yield increased linearly with increasing water application up to 467 mm where yield was 99 t/ha. The relationship between deficit relative yield (yield divided by maximum yield) and deficit relative evapotranspiration (evapotranspiration divided by maximum evapotranspiration) is similar to that reported for processing tomatoes as long as total tomato yield, regardless of grade, is used in the relationship. The marketable yield percentage decreased under moisture stress conditions, and was only 3% for the dryland plots receiving 93 mm of rainfall, plus irrigation for establishment Daily yield from tomato plants and water-use-efficiency peaked 20 to 30 days after harvest began and again near the end of the growing season.
Comparison of outcomes of percutaneous coronary intervention of ostial versus nonostial narrowing of the major epicardial coronary arteries

Outcomes of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of the ostia of the major epicardial coronary arteries in the modern era of stenting have not been clearly defined. We evaluated data from all PCIs performed from 1998 to 2001 in the proximal segments of the major epicardial coronary arteries entered into a large cardiac database and compared ostial with nonostial PCI outcomes. Of 2,484 patients who underwent PCI of a proximal coronary artery (left anterior descending, left circumflex, or right coronary), 223 patients had ostial narrowing and 2,261 patients had proximal, nonostial narrowing. Baseline characteristics were similar between the 2 groups, except that patients with ostial narrowing tended to be older and have shorter narrowings than did patients with nonostial narrowings. Stenting occurred in 89% of all patients and was similar in patients with ostial or nonostial narrowings. Procedural success was the same for ostial and nonostial PCI (96% vs 95%, p = 0.95). One-year event-free survival rate was lower in patients who underwent ostial PCI (69% vs 80%, p = 0.0019), largely due to a greater need for repeat PCI (19% vs 10%, p <0.0001). Multivariate analysis showed that ostial location, age, angina class, and number of diseased vessels were independent predictors of the occurrence of cardiac events. PCI of ostial narrowings of the major epicardial coronary arteries was relatively safe. However, at 1 year, patients who underwent ostial PCI had an increased rate of repeat revascularization compared with patients who underwent nonostial, proximal PCI.
Hemicellulose bioconversion to polyanionic heteropolysaccharides.

Anionic polysaccharides, traditionally obtained from plant or algal sources, have a variety of commercial uses. Such gums from microorganisms have received increased recent interest. We have initiated a program to investigate the bioconversion of pentosans to rheologically useful anionic extracellular polysaccharides (AEPS). A number of earlier-described species, includingCryptococcus laurentii, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Arthrobacter viscosus, andPseudomonas ATCC 31260, appear to have potential in this regard. These organisms can individually convert either xylose, enzymatic oligomeric hemicellulose digests, dilute mineral acid hemicellulose (“TVA”) hydrolysates, or a five-monosaccharide mixture simulating sulfite process liquors to AEPS. The formation parameters, compositions, mol-wt distributions, and the intrinsic viscosities of these purified AEPS are exemplified. Substitution of pentose as the major substrate for glucose can result in changes in mol-wt distribution or in the percentage of noncarbohydrate substituents in some AEPS. Pursuit of these observations may lead to interesting structure-property relationships and toward rheological applications for pentosan-derived AEPS.
A circular tunnel kiln for firing of refractories

The first high-temperature circular tunnel kiln in the country, in which firing of mullite-corundum refractories with a phosphate binder at 1400–1500°C has been introduced, has been placed in service.
A study of individual and situational antecedents of violent victimization

Researchers traditionally rely on routine activities and lifestyle theories to explain the differential risk of victimization; few studies have also explored nonsituational alternative explanations. We present a conceptual framework that links individual trait and situational antecedents of violent victimization. Individual risk factors include low self-control and weak social ties with the family and school. Situational risk factors include having delinquent peers and spending time in unstructured and unsupervised socializing activities with peers. We investigate the empirical claims proposed in this model on a sample of high school students, using LISREL to create a structural equation model. The results generally support our assertions that individual traits and situational variables each significantly and meaningfully contribute to victimization.
Improved Seals for High Temperature Airframe Applications

Current thermal barrier seals, such as those used on the Space Shuttle, are insufficient to fully meet the demands of future hypersonic vehicles and reentry spacecraft. Previous investigations have demonstrated limited usage temperatures, as evidenced by a decreased ability to maintain sealing effectiveness at high temperatures (i.e., inadequate resiliency). In order to improve resiliency at elevated temperatures, Rene 41 (Allvac) was substituted for Inconel X-750 (Special Metals Corp.) as the spring tube material in the existing seal design. A seal construction incorporating the Rene 41 spring tube was fabricated and tested against the baseline Inconel X-750 spring tube seal. Although resiliency improvements were not as dramatic as in previous tests with the spring tubes alone, seals incorporating the Rene 41 spring tube exhibited an average 20 percent resiliency enhancement up to 1750 F when compared to seals containing the Inconel spring tube. In addition, the seals with the Rene 41 spring tubes showed less reduction in resiliency as temperatures increased above 1200 F. Results also indicated the Saffil (Saffil Ltd.) insulation in the core of the seal contributed more to resiliency than previously thought. Leakage data did not demonstrate an improvement with the seal containing the Rene 41 spring tube. However, based upon resiliency results, one could reasonably expect the Rene 41 version of the seal to track gap openings over a wider range. Therefore it would exhibit lower leakage than the Inconel X-750 version as the seal gap opens during a typical mission.
Children Helping Peers: Altruism and Preschool Environment

Abstract The effects of different preschool learning environments on choice of helping behavior were studied using 10 female Ss each from a Transactional Analysis preschool, a Montessori preschool, and a “traditional” preschool program. An experimental need for help was created, using a four-year-old unfamiliar female confederate. A high rate of helping responses was found across preschools, with no difference in response level by preschool. Ss from the different preschool environments selected different behaviors in reacting to the same need for help. Ss attending the T.A. preschool were more likely to offer spontaneous comfort and assistance, while Montessori Ss more frequently provided compliant help. Only Ss from the “traditional” program offered to get adult assistance. The results suggest that even preschool children can select from a repertoire of behaviors a response which is most appropriate for both a specific need for help and the social learning environment in which they are placed.
Mesoscale Analysis of a Heat Wave in Western Oregon.

Abstract A combination of subsidence, east winds and advection of warm air produced a summer heat wave that raised maximum temperatures 35F in four days. This meteorological event was analyzed at the mesoscale, from data in reports from 15 lower elevation stations and from 90 fire-weather stations in mountainous western Oregon. The temperature analyses show the influences of major physiographic features and a stratified marine airmass. The complex temperature patterns, illustrated in cross sections and terrain surface potential temperature analyses, are related to both pressure and wind-flow patterns.
Multifrequency interpolation for fast off-resonance correction

Field inhomogeneities or susceptibility variations produce blurring in images acquired using non-2DFT k-space readout trajectories. This problem is more pronounced for sequences with long readout times such as spiral imaging. Theoretical and practical correction methods based on an acquired field map have been reported in the past. This paper introduces a new correction method based on the existing concept of frequency segmented correction but which is faster and theoretically more accurate. It consists of reconstructing the data at several frequencies to form a set of base images that are then added together with spatially varying linear coefficients derived from the field map. The new algorithm is applied to phantom and in vivo images acquired with projection reconstruction and spiral sequences, yielding sharply focused images.
Quality Control of Spirometry Testing in the Registry for Patients With Severe α1-Antitrypsin Deficiency

As part of the multicenter National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute registry of patients with severe deficiency of α 1 -antitrypsin with 1,129 enrollees, this report describes measures undertaken to achieve high-quality FEV 1 measurements, the rates of satisfying reproducibility and acceptability criteria, and clinical features of participants unable to achieve reproducible FEV 1 values at baseline. Spirograms were performed both before and after an inhaled bronchodilator in enrollees followed up at 37 participating clinical centers. Using a reproducibility criterion of 1 measurements at baseline were observed for both prebronchodilator (95.0% of 1,090 sessions) and postbronchodilator measurements (95.7% of 1,077 sessions). Using the more recently published reproducibility criterion of ≤200 mL, reproducibility rates were even higher. Eighty-four percent of clinical centers submitted FEV 1 values that satisfied reproducibility criteria for at least 90% of spirograms. Also, the mean coefficient of variation for prebronchodilator FEV 1 values measured over serial visits separated by up to 9 months was 5.6% for participants with baseline FEV j 55 to 90% predicted. This degree of reproducibility is similar to that observed in the Lung Health Study. Rates of satisfying acceptability criteria for prebronchodilator spirograms were lower, almost universally (98% of tests) due to failure to achieve end-of-test criteria (which usually required 15 s of expiration in this population with mean FEV 1 =42.6±29.6% [SD] predicted). Multivariate logistic regression models show that clinical correlates of failure to achieve reproducible prebronchodilator FEV 1 efforts include symptoms of chronic wheeze, chronic cough, and chronic phlegm, and the degree of airflow obstruction. We conclude that highly reproducible FEV 1 measurements are achievable in a population with severe airflow obstruction despite the additional challenges posed by testing in multiple centers on a variety of spirometers. Furthermore, the difficulty of satisfying end-of-test criteria in a large cohort with severe airflow obstruction did not preclude achieving high rates of reproducibility for FEV 1 measurements. Finally, our study confirms prior observations that failure to achieve reproducible efforts is associated with the presence of pulmonary symptoms and the degree of airflow obstruction. Thus, excluding patients with nonreproducible FEV 1 efforts from epidemiologic studies would bias results by including only healthier participants.
Hemophilia and gene transfer: this dog might hunt

Comment on Arruda et al, page [3458][1] The authors have shown sustained correction of bleeding in hemophiliac dogs using a new method of viral vector–mediated gene transfer to skeletal muscle. The blight of hemophilia is well documented, dating back to ancient times. Two distinct forms of the
Expression of G1/S phase modulators of cell cycle cyclin D1, CDK4, and pRb, and of proliferation marker Ki67 in primary mucosal melanoma of the head and neck

Objective Overexpression of Cyclin D1 and CDK4 genes and loss of pRb function are frequent events in many malignant tumors. Interestingly, Cyclin D1 and CDK4 expression is infrequent in cutaneous melanomas, except for the acral melanomas, and pRb expression is retained. The objective of this study was to ascertain the expression of these G1/S phase modulators of the cell cycle and of the proliferation marker Ki67 in the nonUV-light-related primary mucosal melanoma of the head and neck using monoclonal antibodies to Cyclin D1, CDK4, pRb, and Ki67. Findings Archival tissue from 13 primary sinonasal and 4 oral mucosal melanomas from 12 men and 5 women (age range 60-86 years, median 76 years) were used for the study. Cyclin D1 expression was seen in 14 of 15 tumors ( 50% positive cells = 5 tumors). CDK4 expression was seen in all 17 cases (20% positive cells = 1, >50% positive cells = 16 tumors). pRb expression also was seen in all 17 tumors ( 50% positive cells = 14 tumors). The proliferation index as determined by Ki67 expression was 50% in 4 tumors and did not correlate with the expression of cyclin D1, CDK4, or pRb. Conclusion Frequent overexpression of Cyclin D1 and CDK4 suggests deregulation of the G1/S phase of the cell cycle. This may be a critical step in the pathogenesis of mucosal melanoma. Loss of pRb is infrequent in mucosal melanoma and does not appear to be an important factor in its pathogenesis.
Interaction between detonation waves and flowfields.

The study of the interaction between detonation waves and flowfields could lead to a better understanding of combustion instability in rocket motors and to possible application to supersonic combustion. Apparatus was designed to measure the relative wave velocity and to photograph the wave profile as a fully developed detonation wave propagated against a flow of stoichiometric mixture of hydrogen-oxygen gases. The Mach number of the flowing unburned gas was varied from 0.14 to 4. The subsonic flow results were in good agreement with the Chapman-Jouguet theory; but the supersonic flow results indicated a strong detonation wave. The schlieren photographs of the wave indicated propagation into the boundary layer, and a convex curvature of the complete wave front was observed in the Mach 4 experiments. Velocity measurements indicated that the detonation wave was steady, but in some experiments disturbances were observed downstream of the detonation wave.
Electron-bombarded CCD detectors for ultraviolet atmospheric remote sensing

Electronic image sensors based on charge coupled devices operated in electron-bombarded mode, yielding real-time, remote-readout, photon-limited UV imaging capability are being developed. The sensors also incorporate fast-focal-ratio Schmidt optics and opaque photocathodes, giving nearly the ultimate possible diffuse-source sensitivity. They can be used for direct imagery of atmospheric emission phenomena, and for imaging spectrography with moderate spatial and spectral resolution. The current state of instrument development, laboratory results, planned future developments and proposed applications of the sensors in space flight instrumentation is described.
A phenolic antioxidant from the freshwater orchid, Habenaria repens.

Abstract Recently, an unusual compound named habenariol was isolated from the freshwater orchid, Habenaria repens . Its phenolic structure suggested that habenariol should have substantial antioxidant activity. This possibility was investigated by evaluating the capacity of habenariol to inhibit copper-induced lipid peroxidation of human low density lipoprotein (LDL), a popular experimental model. LDL was incubated with 5 μ M cupric chloride in the presence and absence of habenariol or a positive control, viz., α -tocopherol. Both kinetic and end-point spectrophotometric assays were used to determine extent of lipid peroxidation of LDL. In the kinetic assay, the time elapsing before the onset of rapid formation of conjugated lipid hydroperoxides in LDL (marked by a sharp increase in UV absorbance) was prolonged by habenariol, indicative of an antioxidant effect. In the end-point assay, direct colorimetric measurement confirmed habenariol's ability to inhibit formation of lipid hydroperoxides. However, in both assays, habenariol was less potent than α -tocopherol in inhibiting lipid peroxidation of LDL.
Increased vulnerability of neonatal rats and mice to 1-nitronaphthalene-induced pulmonary injury ☆

The postnatal period of lung development is a critical window of susceptibility to environmental toxicants, including polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and furans. To determine whether the increased susceptibility of neonatal lung injury due to environmental toxicants is a universal response across species and also applies to nitrated compounds, adult and 7-day-old male mice and rats were given a single intraperitoneal dose (0, 12.5, 25, 50, or 100 mg/kg) of 1-nitronaphthalene and killed 24 h later. Exposure to 1-nitronaphthalene, a nitro-polyaromatic hydrocarbon, results in pulmonary lesions in both adult rats and mice, although the severity of the injury is species-specific (greater in rats than in mice). Pulmonary lesions, as assessed by quantitative histopathology, included dose-dependent vacuolization and exfoliation of both ciliated and nonciliated airway epithelial cells throughout the airway tree in both rats and mice. In both species, the 7-day-old animals were more susceptible to injury by 1-nitronaphthalene than adult animals. In contrast to adult response, neonatal mice were more susceptible to 1-nitronaphthalene-induced pulmonary injury than neonatal rats. This indicates that neonatal susceptibility to environmental pollutant-induced lung injury cannot be reliably predicted based on adult susceptibility.
FREQUENCY EFFECTS AND CLASSICAL PATHS IN STRONG-FIELD IONIZATION

The ability of the SFA (strong-field approximation) to predict the ionization of atoms at all frequencies is explored at low frequency by comparison with experiment. Excellent agreement is found over a very wide range of high intensities. At high frequency, where no precision strong-field experiments are available, a comparison is made between predictions of the SFA and a high-frequency theory due to Gavrila. Agreement in transition rates is very good. The disagreement in the assignment of energy conditions at high frequencies is explained as a difference in interpretation brought about by the gauge transformation employed by Gavrila. An examination of semiclassical path behavior of a photoelectron after ionization gives insight on the lower limits of intensity for which the SFA is applicable, and makes transparent the meaning of a recently applied Coulomb correction to the SFA for circularly polarized light. A related examination for linearly polarized light gives an effective high energy limit for intense-field photoelectron spectra.
Absence of perforin expression confers axonal protection despite demyelination.

Abstract Current evidence suggests that demyelination may be a necessary but not a sufficient condition for neurologic deficits associated with multiple sclerosis. Axon injury that occurs within the permissive environment of the demyelinated lesion is better correlated with functional deficits, but the mechanisms and cellular effectors of this injury are largely unknown. In an effort to identify potential axon injury mediators, we examined demyelination, motor function, and the number of spinal axons in perforin-deficient mice. Perforin is a critical molecular mediator of cytotoxic immunological injury and we hypothesized that genetic deletion of perforin expression would protect demyelinated axons. Indeed, we found that while perforin-deficient mice had considerable spinal cord demyelination 180 days after infection with Theiler’s murine encephalomyelitis virus, such mice exhibited functional and axonal preservation comparable to non-demyelinated perforin-competent controls. We conclude that perforin-dependent effector cells such as cytotoxic T cells, γδ T cells, and natural killer cells may play a role in axon damage that is dependent upon but separable from demyelination.
Synthesis and Reactivity of a Novel, Dimeric Derivative of Octafluoro[2.2]paracyclophane. A New Source of Trifluoromethyl Radicals

Novel radical addition chemistry, involving addition of CF3• radicals to octafluoro[2.2]paracyclophane (AF4), leads to formation of an unprecedented new class of dimeric CF3-substituted AF4 derivatives. These chemically stable, but highly sterically constrained compounds undergo a clean thermal homolytic retro process to form monomeric CF3-substituted radicals. These radicals can be trapped by atom-transfer agents such as 1,4-cyclohexadiene or I2, but in the absence of such agents, they undergo further homolysis to form trifluoromethyl radicals in a process that is amenable to their use as free-radical initiators, as was shown by a study of the polymerization of vinylidene fluoride.
TEST ELEMENTS IN DIRECT PRODUCTS OF GROUPS

We characterize test elements in the commutator subgroup of a direct product of certain groups in terms of test elements of the factors. This provides explicit examples of test elements in direct products whose factors are free groups or surface groups and a tool for doing the same for torsion free hyperbolic factors.
Strong Reduction and Normal Form in Combinatory Logic

possible importance are suggested by an equivalence between the theory of combinators and A-conversion, and the Church-Rosser theorem in A-conversion. This theorem implies that if a formula Xis convertible to a formula X* which cannot be further reduced-is irreducible, or in normalform-then Xis convertible to X* by a reduction alone. Moreover, the reduction may be performed in a certain prescribed order. The reduction of a formula in A-conversion is a sequence of replacements of components having certain stated forms (redexes) by certain corresponding forms (their contracts). The steps in the reduction are not further analyzable in the theory. Strong reduction is not defined as a sequence of replacements; it was an open problem, only recently solved by Hindley [3], whether or not strong reduction could be so described. Curry studied strong reduction in CLg I ([1] and [2] henceforth will be referred to as CLg I and CLg II respectively) by defining yet another kind of reduction, normal reduction, the steps of which are analogous to the steps of a reduction to normal form in A-conversion. Normal reductions are strong reductions in the sense that if X reduces to Y in a normal reduction, then X strongly reduces to Y. -If the normal reduction of X terminates in X*, then X* is said to be in normal form, and to be the normal form of X. Curry showed in CLg I that if X is in normal form, then X is strongly irreducible. The converse of Curry's theorem is the main result of this paper: THEoREM 3.2. If X is strongly irreducible, then X is in normalform. In addition, normal forms will be defined directly, without reference to normal reductions, so that a corollary result will be a characterization of strong irreducibility. The results here are contained in my thesis [4] but not always with the present proofs. In particular the present Lemma 2.5 and Theorem 3.1, and their proofs, are based on unpublished results of Professor H. B. Curry, to whom it is a pleasure to acknowledge my debt and express my gratitude. Curry's forthcoming book CLg II will contain new proofs of the results of ??3, 4, and 5 of this paper as well as
Improved control of momentary rapid thermal annealing for silicidation

Temperature control and wafer-to-wafer reproducibility during momentary annealing via rapid thermal annealing is critical for TiSi2 Self-Aligned siLICIDE (SALICIDE) processing for deep submicron complementary metal oxide semiconductor. TiSi2 must undergo a transformation from the high resistivity C49 phase to the low resistivity C54 phase for applications where it is used as a gate conductor. A process modification to achieve improved wafer-to-wafer and within wafer temperature reproducibility is demonstrated. It has the additional benefit to the TiSi2 salicide process of enabling anneals of reduced duration, enhancing suicide transformation to the desired phase without leading to agglomeration.
Job stressors and teacher job satisfaction in programs serving students with emotional and behavioral disorders

Teacher turnover is problem that continues to plague the field of special education, given the associated costs when a teacher leaves his or her job. The challenges associated with recruitment and retention of quality teachers, especially in programs serving students with emotional and behavioral disorders (E/BD) have been attributed to a variety of factors within the schools. This study examines the perceptions of teachers of students with E/BD regarding the different stressors that cause dissatisfaction and discontentment with their jobs. Electronic surveying and focus groups were used to accrue quantitative and qualitative data. Findings indicate that stressors within and outside the classrooms were responsible for high levels of stress and dissatisfaction, which eventually translate into teacher transfers or migration to other professions. Implications for promoting retention of teachers of students with E/BD are discussed.
Supplementary comment: conservation of deep-sea corals off the northeast United States

Most deep-sea corals off the northeastern US (Scleractinia, Octocorallia, Antipatharia, Pennatulacea) are non-reef forming, are dominated by octocorals and occur mainly in the deeper waters of the ...
Voluntary exercise improves both learning and consolidation of cued conditioned fear in C57 mice

Exercise is associated with improved cognitive function in humans as well as improved learning across a range of tasks in rodents. Although these studies provide a strong link between exercise and learning, to date studies have largely focused on tasks that principally involve the hippocampus. However, exercise has been shown to produce alterations in other brain areas suggesting that the cognitive enhancing effects of exercise may be more general. Therefore we set out to examine the effects of voluntary exercise on cued Pavlovian fear conditioning, a form of learning that is critically dependent on the amygdala. In Experiment 1 we showed that mice given 2 weeks of access to a running wheel prior to tone and foot shock fear conditioning showed enhanced conditioned fear as measured by fear-potentiated startle. This effect was not the result of altered shock reactivity nor was it to due to reduced baseline startle amplitude in exercising mice. In subsequent experiments we sought to examine whether the enhanced cued conditioned fear was the result of an improvement in learning, consolidation or retrieval of conditioned fear. In separate groups of mice, two weeks of access to a running wheel was begun either prior to fear conditioning, immediately after fear conditioning (consolidation period) or 2 weeks after fear conditioning. Compared to sedentary mice, mice that exercised either prior to fear conditioning, or immediately after fear conditioning, showed enhanced cued conditioned fear. Fear conditioning was not enhanced in mice that began exercising 2 weeks after fear conditioning. Taken together these results suggest that voluntary exercise improves the learning and consolidation of cued conditioned fear but does not improve the retrieval or performance of conditioned fear. Because a great deal is known about the neural circuit for cued conditioned fear, it is now possible to examine the cellular, molecular and pharmacological changes associated with exercise in this well-understood neural circuit.
Nitric oxide and vascular remodeling modulate hepatic arterial vascular resistance in the isolated perfused cirrhotic rat liver

Background/Aims Hepatic arterial resistance is modulated by the hepatic arterioles but the role of NO and vascular remodeling in hepatic arterial resistance in cirrhosis is unknown. Methods Cirrhosis was induced by CCl 4 or BDL. Using a bivascular liver perfusion dose-responses curves to methoxamine were obtained from the hepatic artery in absence and presence of L-NMMA. Lumen-diameter, wall thickness and number of smooth muscle nuclei were quantitated in the arteries using image analysis. Results Hepatic arterial resistance and the response to methoxamine were lower in cirrhosis compared to controls ( p ⩽0.04) and lower in BDL compared to CCl 4 ( p ⩽0.01). L-NMMA increased the response to methoxamine in CCl 4 ( p =0.002) and BDL ( p =0.05) but corrected the response only in CCl 4 ( p =n.s. vs. control). Wall thickness and the number of smooth muscle nuclei were significantly smaller in cirrhosis compared to controls ( p 4 ( p =0.005). Conclusions NO is the main modulator of hepatic arterial resistance in CCl 4 but not in BDL. Intrahepatic arterial remodeling is present in both cirrhotic models but is greater in BDL. This indicates a larger role of structural changes in the control of hepatic arterial resistance in BDL.
Beneath the Fault Line: The Popular and Legal Culture of Divorce in Twentieth-Century America

In Beneath the Fault Line, law professor and historian J. Herbie DiFonzo juxtaposes legal doctrine and practice with popular culture and individual accounts to illustrate the history of divorce in America. DiFonzo's study focuses mainly on the cultural trend toward acceptance. Although he uses formal records such as law texts, statutes, and the decisions of trial and appellate courts, his primary sources are the popular presses of the time, with their opinions, criticisms, and even parodies of divorce and divorce legislation. Most historical accounts contend that twentieth-century reforms were attempts to liberalize family law to conform with the ever-increasing demand for divorce. DiFonzo argues that these legal tactics were in fact attempts to curb divorce rates by recommending less drastic alternatives, such as counseling, and therapy. Beneath the Fault Line is a much-needed examination of divorce in twentieth-century America and should interest students of family law and development, social work, and sociology, as well as a broader audience concerned with the history of the American family.
Very high frequency EPR — 94 GHz instrument and applications to primary reaction centers from photosynthetic red bacteria and to other disordered systems

There are many advantages to carrying out electron paramagnetic resonance experiments at very high frequencies, either as part of a multifrequency strategy for solving problems or for special characteristics of high frequencies. These special characteristics include the potential for high point sensitivity, enhanced resolution, separation of similar species, altered sensitivity to motion, suppression of motional effects, and many others. This paper describes a three-millimeter-wavelength (W-band, 94 GHz) EPR spectrometer built for a multi-user facility and illustrates with some examples, most of them being disordered systems. One significant example is the oxidized primary reaction center, P 865 + , isolated from the red photosynthetic bacteriaRhodobacter Sphaeroides R-26. The W-band technique applied to both centers isolated from bacteria grown from either deuterated or ordinary growth media allows extraction of the fullg anisotropy in these centers and sets the stage for multifrequency EPR spectroscopy to yield a full analysis of the various contributions to linewidths in these systems.
A Contraction Principle for Finite Global Games

I provide a new proof of uniqueness of equilibrium in a wide class of global games. I show that the joint best-response in these games is a contraction. The uniqueness result then follows as a corollary of the contraction principle. Furthermore, the contraction-mapping approach provides an intuition for why uniqueness arises: complementarities in games generate multiplicity of equilibria, but the global-games structure dampens complementarities so that only one equilibrium exists.
Tooth color: effects on judgments of attractiveness and age.

Tooth whitening has become a very popular procedure. Advertisements for whitening products imply that whiter teeth are more attractive than yellower teeth. We tested this idea empirically by manipulating the tooth color of pictures of male and female targets. Participants' ratings of attractiveness were not influenced by tooth color. Exp. 2 yielded a negative correlation between attractiveness and age ratings: targets judged to be older were rated as less attractive. Unless whiter teeth help in some other way, e.g., improved self-esteem or confidence, it seems that tooth whitening procedures or products are not associated with increased attractiveness to others.
Impaired synthesis of prostaglandin E2 by lung fibroblasts and alveolar epithelial cells from GM-CSF−/− mice: implications for fibroproliferation

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is a potent suppressor of fibroblast activity. We previously reported that bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis was exaggerated in granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating ...
Reliability-aware scalability models for high performance computing

Scalability models are powerful analytical tools for evaluating and predicting the performance of parallel applications. Unfortunately, existing scalability models do not quantify failure impact and therefore cannot accurately account for application performance in the presence of failures. In this study, we extend two well-known models, namely Amdahl's law and Gustafson's law, by considering the impact of failures and the effect of fault tolerance techniques on applications. The derived reliability-aware models can be used to predict application scalability in failure-present environments and evaluate fault tolerance techniques. Trace-based simulations via real failure logs demonstrate that the newly developed models provide a better understanding of application performance and scalability in the presence of failures.