cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Comparison Of Evaluation Techniques For Decision Analysis Involving Large Attribute Sets

This study investigates the effectiveness of two multi-attribute evaluation techniques under conditions of high information load that is caused by large attribute sets. One hundred and sixty-five respondents were randomly assigned to two groups: the first one used a holistic, point allocation-based method to evaluate a list of 20 job attributes, while the second employed a triad-based technique that decomposed the evaluation task. The results suggest that the decomposed method produced more reliable results and was deemed easier to use, even though it took longer to complete the task.
Comprehensive analysis of the endoplasmic reticulum stress response in the soybean genome: conserved and plant-specific features

Despite the relevance of the eukaryotic endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-stress response as an integrator of multiple stress signals into an adaptive response, knowledge about these ER-mediated cytoprotective pathways in soybean (Glycine max) is lacking. Here, we searched for genes involved in the highly conserved unfolded protein response (UPR) and ER stress-induced plant-specific cell death signaling pathways in the soybean genome. Previously characterized Arabidopsis UPR genes were used as prototypes for the identification of the soybean orthologs and the in silico assembly of the UPR in soybean, using eggNOG v4.0 software. Functional studies were also conducted by analyzing the transcriptional activity of soybean UPR transducers. As a result of this search, we have provided a complete profile of soybean UPR genes with significant predicted protein similarities to A. thaliana UPR-associated proteins. Both arms of the plant UPR were further examined functionally, and evidence is presented that the soybean counterparts are true orthologs of previously characterized UPR transducers in Arabidopsis. The bZIP17/bZI28 orthologs (GmbZIP37 and GmbZIP38) and ZIP60 ortholog (GmbZIP68) from soybean have similar structural organizations as their Arabidopsis counterparts, were induced by ER stress and activated an ERSE- and UPRE-containing BiP promoter. Furthermore, the transcript of the putative substrate of GmIREs, GmbZIP68, harbors a canonical site for IRE1 endonuclease activity and was efficiently spliced under ER stress conditions. In a reverse approach, we also examined the Arabidopsis genome for components of a previously characterized ER stress-induced cell death signaling response in soybean. With the exception of GmERD15, which apparently does not possess an Arabidopsis ortholog, the Arabidopsis genome harbors conserved GmNRP, GmNAC81, GmNAC30 and GmVPE sequences that share significant structural and sequence similarities with their soybean counterparts. These results suggest that the NRP/GmNAC81 + GmNAC30/VPE regulatory circuit may transduce cell death signals in plant species other than soybean. Our in silico analyses, along with current and previous functional data, permitted generation of a comprehensive overview of the ER stress response in soybean as a framework for functional prediction of ER stress signaling components and their possible connections with multiple stress responses.
An Introduction to “A Song Among the Ruins”

That the Presidential Directive instruct the National Academy of Sciences - National Research Council - to undertake a long range, continuing study of the biological and medical effects of the atomic bomb on man. …
A flexible model for correlated medical costs, with application to medical expenditure panel survey data

We propose a flexible model for correlated medical cost data with several appealing features. First, the mean function is partially linear. Second, the distributional form for the response is not specified. Third, the covariance structure of correlated medical costs has a semiparametric form. We use extended generalized estimating equations to simultaneously estimate all parameters of interest. B-splines are used to estimate unknown functions, and a modification to Akaike information criterion is proposed for selecting knots in spline bases. We apply the model to correlated medical costs in the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey dataset. Simulation studies are conducted to assess the performance of our method.
Bandwidth Prediction on a WiMAX Network

The IEEE 802.16 standard (WiMAX) is an important next-generation networking technology which promises high-speed network access for both mobile and fixed users. In this paper we present a method to estimate link quality for devices connected to Temple University's WiMAX network as they traverse both the main campus and the city of Philadelphia via foot and motor vehicle. This is accomplished by first measuring receive signal strength indicator (RSSI), carrier to interference plus noise ratio (CINR), and bandwidth. After capturing these values, we then analyze the data to provide an estimation of the actual system rate. We then present an approach to predict future states of link quality both while stationary at Temple and when traversing Philadelphia via bus.
Molecular genetics of demyelination: new wrinkles on an old membrane.

The study of myelin and inherited demyelinating disorders has converged to a common point: the biology of myelin-forming cells. Once the subject of a lively debate, all of the known mutations causing demyelination have turned out to affect genes expressed by myelin-forming cells; mutations of neuronal genes have not yet been shown to cause any inherited demyelinating disease. The consequences of these mutations, moreover, must ultimately be deciphered in the myelinating cells. This will be challenging, given the large number of genes that cause demyelination, the different effects of mutations that have been described, the sheer number of mutations, and the possibility of macromolecular interactions in the myelin sheath. Yet, determining the molecular mechanisms of demyelination is a powerful way to understand the function of myelin and the clearest way to a rational basis for classifying and treating these disorders.
Experimental Ischemia in Monkeys: II. Vascular Response

The extent and duration of experimental vascular occlusion in the periodontium of squirrel monkeys was determined by India ink perfusion. Three, hours after the induction of carbonized microspheres, only vessels of the periodontal ligament contained perfusion material. The palatal gingiva was vascularized before the maxillary buccal gingiva, Gingival vessels adjacent to the epithelial attachment and crevicular epithelium vascularized first.
Subunit arrangement of spinach ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase

The structure of spinach ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (EC 4.1.1.39) has been investigated by tilted-view electron microscopy of negatively stained monolayer crystals and image processing. The structure determined consists of a cylinder of octagonal cross-section with a large central hole. Based on this and other available evidence a model for the arrangement of the large and small subunits is suggested with the eight small subunits arranged equatorially around the core of eight large subunits.
Pepstatin A—A human leukocyte chemoattractant

Abstract Pepstatin A, a specific pepsin inhibitor of bacterial origin, induces directed migration of human peripheral blood neutrophils, monocytes, and eosinophils.
Use of Computerized Dynamic Assessment to Improve Student Achievement: Case Study

Recent studies have reported on the benefits of dynamic assessment (DA) in improving student learning and achievement through diagnostic monitoring of student misunderstandings, providing context-specific feedback, and assessing the improvement thereafter. Following these reports, a computer-based DA system has been developed by us for use in an undergraduate hydraulic engineering course. This case study presents data collected before and after implementation of this DA system that shows improvement in student performance. In this study, student performance is quantified by the percent of questions correctly answered in the fundamentals of engineering (FE) exam relative to the national average. Since implementation of the DA system in 2004, this measure for our students has increased from below national level [ mean=0.942 ; SD =0.068 ] in nine administrations of the FE exam, to above national level ( mean=1.068 ; SD=0.028 ) in the last five administrations. Based on this measure, performance of these stud...
Nicotinic receptor alpha7 expression identifies a novel hematopoietic progenitor lineage.

How inflammatory responses are mechanistically modulated by nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR), especially by receptors composed of alpha7 (α7) subunits, is poorly defined. This includes a precise definition of cells that express α7 and how these impact on innate inflammatory responses. To this aim we used mice generated through homologous recombination that express an Ires-Cre-recombinase bi-cistronic extension of the endogenous α7 gene that when crossed with a reporter mouse expressing Rosa26-LoxP (yellow fluorescent protein (YFP)) marks in the offspring those cells of the α7 cell lineage (α7lin+). In the adult, on average 20–25 percent of the total CD45+ myeloid and lymphoid cells of the bone marrow (BM), blood, spleen, lymph nodes, and Peyers patches are α7lin+, although variability between litter mates in this value is observed. This hematopoietic α7lin+ subpopulation is also found in Sca1+cKit+ BM cells suggesting the α7 lineage is established early during hematopoiesis and the ratio remains stable in the individual thereafter as measured for at least 18 months. Both α7lin+ and α7lin– BM cells can reconstitute the immune system of naive irradiated recipient mice and the α7lin+:α7lin– beginning ratio is stable in the recipient after reconstitution. Functionally the α7lin+:α7lin– lineages differ in response to LPS challenge. Most notable is the response to LPS as demonstrated by an enhanced production of IL-12/23(p40) by the α7lin+ cells. These studies demonstrate that α7lin+ identifies a novel subpopulation of bone marrow cells that include hematopoietic progenitor cells that can re-populate an animal’s inflammatory/immune system. These findings suggest that α7 exhibits a pleiotropic role in the hematopoietic system that includes both the direct modulation of pro-inflammatory cell composition and later in the adult the role of modulating pro-inflammatory responses that would impact upon an individual’s lifelong response to inflammation and infection.
X-ray observations of ex hydrae with the Einstein solid state spectrometer

Einstein SSS X-ray observations of the eclipsing intermediate polar EX Hya are presented. The SSS data have a better resolution at energies extending below 2 keV than do the EXOSAT data. These data reveal the presence of a soft component with a temperature of about 0.74 keV. The phase-resolved data can be fitted to a model of two-temperature thermal plasma with a single absorber, with the result that only the normalization varies with phase. This suggests that part of the soft component might become occulted at minimum. If we assume that the reduction in the flux occurs due to the photoelectric absorption, we find that a high-density material covering only about 40 percent of the emission can fit the data equally well. The EXOSAT and Ginga data of this source favor the accretion curtain model rather than the occultation model. We modify the accretion curtain model by assuming that the modulation is caused by an absorber which partially covers the accreting column at the minimum of the 67-min pulse. An emission line at 1.72 keV is present in the data. The equivalent width of this line varies in phase with the continuum. We associate this line with Si fluorescence.
Adult Vitelliform Macular Detachment Occurring in Patients with Basal Laminar Drusen

We studied 41 young and middle-aged adults who developed innumerable, small, round, uniformly sized, yellow, subretinal nodules that were often arranged in clusters throughout the posterior fundus. Angiographically, they fluoresced discretely during the early arteriovenous phase. In middle or later life 17 of these patients developed visual loss caused by vitelliform retinal detachment in the macula of one or both eyes. Spontaneous resolution of the detachment and retention of good visual acuity occurred frequently. We found evidence indicating that the multiple, small, subretinal nodules are probably focal areas of pigment epithelial attenuation overlying nodular thickenings of the basement membrane of the pigment epithelium. The term basal laminar drusen would distinguish these nodules from those of typical drusen, which are caused by focal detachments of attenuated pigment epithelium and its usually normal-thickness basement membrane from the inner collagenous zone of Bruch's membrane.
A stable nanoemulsion of cyclopentadecanolide potentiates both acute and longitudinal death of pancreatic cancer cells following irreversible electroporation (IRE)

Purpose A nontoxic nanoemulsion of cyclopentadecanolide (CPDL) destabilizes cell membranes to permit effective, reduced temperature ablation of cells and tissues at 47-55 o C. This study was performed to test the hypothesis that the CPDL emulsion's effects on cell membranes would also sensitize human PANC-1 Pancreatic Cancer Cells to irreversible electroporation. Materials and Methods Suspensions of PANC-1 cells were treated with 0.005-0.6% (w/V) CPDL nanoemulsions 10-40 min prior to and then during IRE, using voltage gradients of 1,000-4,500 V/cm. Cells were assayed using a flow cytometric live-dead assay immediately following IRE and at various times thereafter, for up to 96 h post IRE. Results Treating PANC-1 cells for 10-40 min prior to IRE increased acute cell killing (immediately following IRE) by 2.2-fold, thus permitting iso-effective IRE killing with 2.2-fold lower voltage gradients. CPDL also accelerated and enhanced longitudinal cell death following IRE, by a similar factor. Thus, voltage gradients that produced little acute killing were able to yield effective cell killing 24-96 hours following IRE. Conclusion It is postulated that CPDL interactions with cell membranes enhance the membrane porosity produced by IRE to increase acute killing and delay resolution of the pores to enhance longitudinal cell killing. Regardless of its mechanism of action, CPDL will ostensibly permit using lower IRE voltage gradients for treating tumors to minimize normal tissue sequelae and promote longitudinal killing over acute killing to further reduce inflammation and other complications that result from high levels of rapid, acute tissue death. Delayed repair of membrane pores should also promote cellular intake of drugs, nanoparticles and other IRE-synergistic therapies to improve their contribution to killing cancer cells and promoting local tumor control.
How To Be a Predator

This paper discusses what would appear to be the optimal strategy of a predator given two alternative objectives: (1) maximum yield commensurate with the long-term maintenance of the prey species, and (2) extinction of the prey species. The problem is examined in terms of past research on Daphnia and Hydra , and takes into account estimates of ecological efficiency, population efficiency, and growth efficiency based on many laboratory experiments. It is shown that there may be distinct differences in the effects of removing different kinds of individuals from a prey population. The optimal system for a predator wishing to insure the continued availability of its prey is to take animals which are about to die anyway, i.e., to alter the natural pattern of mortality as little as possible. It is concluded, with some reservations, that predators in nature generally act in this manner. Conversely, if one's intent is to exterminate a prey species ( e.g., an objectionable pest), the animals removed should be those which natural predators do not select.
Dispersion mechanisms and the effect of parameter uncertainty on hydrologic response in urban catchments

[1] The link between river network structure and hydrologic response for natural watersheds has been the subject of ongoing research for the past 30 years. In this paper we investigate the link between sewer network structure and hydrologic response in urban catchments. It has been shown in natural watersheds that there are dispersion mechanisms that contribute to the impulse response function of the catchment: hydrodynamic dispersion, geomorphologic dispersion, and hydrodynamic dispersion. We introduce a fourth dispersion mechanism, intrastate dispersion, which accounts for the variance in conduit (e.g., slope, length, diameter, etc.) and overland region input parameters (e.g., slope, area, imperviousness, etc.) within an order. This dispersion mechanism is found to be the second largest contributor to the total dispersion in the urban catchments analyzed, contributing less than hydrodynamic dispersion but more than kinematic and geomorphologic dispersion. This is primarily a result of the shorter network travel times observed in urban catchment. The dispersion mechanisms are incorporated in the Illinois Urban Hydrologic Model, which is a recently developed probabilistic approach for predicting the hydrologic response in highly urbanized catchments. Furthermore, an analysis is performed to help better understand the uncertainty in the predicted hydrologic response that is introduced by spatial variation in conduit and overland input parameters. It is identified that conduit slope and length are the greatest sources of uncertainty in the predicted direct runoff hydrograph for the CDS-51 catchment in the village of Dolton, Illinois, and the CDS-36 catchment in the city of Chicago, Illinois.
Using SDO's AIA to investigate energy transport from a flare's energy release site to the chromosphere

Coordinated observations of a GOES B4.8 microflare with SDOs Atmospheric Imaging Assembly (AIA) and the RamatyHigh Energy Solar Spectroscopic Imager (RHESSI) on 2010 July 31 show that emission in all seven of AIAs EUV channels brightened simultaneously nearly 6 min before RHESSI or GOES detected emission from plasma at temperatures around 10 MK. Aims. To help interpret these and AIA flare observations in general, we characterized the expected temporal responses of AIAs 94, 131, 171, 193, 211, and 335 channels to solar flare brightenings by combining (1) AIAs nominal temperature response functions available through SSWIDL with (2) EUV spectral line data observed in a flare loop Coordinated observations of a GOES B4.8 microflare with SDOs Atmospheric Imaging Assembly (AIA) and the RamatyHigh Energy Solar Spectroscopic Imager (RHESSI) on 2010 July 31 show that emission in all seven of AIAs EUV channels brightenedsimultaneously nearly 6 min before RHESSI or GOES detected emission from plasma at temperatures around 10 MK.Aims. To help interpret these and AIA flare observations in general, we characterized the expected temporal responses of AIAs 94,131, 171, 193, 211, and 335 channels to solar flare brightenings by combining (1) AIAs nominal temperature response functionsavailable through SSWIDL with (2) EUV spectral line data observed in a flare loop
Star counts and visual extinctions in dark nebulae.

Application of star count techniques to the determination of visual extinctions in compact, fairly high-extinction dark nebulae is discussed. Particular attention is devoted to the determination of visual extinctions for a cloud having a possibly anomalous ratio of total to selective extinction. The techniques discussed are illustrated in application at two colors to four well-known compact dust clouds or Bok globules: Barnard 92, B 133, B 134, and B 335. Minimum masses and lower limits to the central extinction of these objects are presented.
Thin films of triglycine sulfate by laser evaporation

Abstract Thin films of triglycine sulfate were prepared by laser evaporation. The properties of these films were evaluated by electrical measurements, x-ray diffraction and IR spectrometry. The deposited material was found to be essentially triglycine sulfate with some glycine present as a decomposition product. The deposited material was also found to be highly oriented with the pyroelectric direction lying in the plane of the film.
Effect of multileaf collimator leaf width on physical dose distributions in the treatment of CNS and head and neck neoplasms with intensity modulated radiation therapy.

The purpose of this work is to examine physical radiationdose differences between two multileaf collimator(MLC) leaf widths (5 and 10 mm) in the treatment of CNS and head and neck neoplasms with intensity modulated radiation therapy(IMRT). Three clinical patients with CNStumors were planned with two different MLC leaf sizes, 5 and 10 mm, representing Varian-120 and Varian-80 Millennium multileaf collimators, respectively. Two sets of IMRTtreatment plans were developed. The goal of the first set was radiationdose conformality in three dimensions. The goal for the second set was organ avoidance of a nearby critical structure while maintaining adequate coverage of the target volume. Treatment planning utilized the CadPlan/Helios system (Varian Medical Systems, Milpitas CA) for dynamic MLCtreatment delivery. All beam parameters and optimization (cost function) parameters were identical for the 5 and 10 mm plans. For all cases the number of beams, gantry positions, and table positions were taken from clinically treated three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy plans. Conformality was measured by the ratio of the planning isodose volume to the target volume. Organ avoidance was measured by the volume of the critical structure receiving greater than 90% of the prescription dose (V 90 ). For three patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (T2-T4 N0-N2c M0) 5 and 10 mm leaf widths were compared for parotid preservation utilizing nine coplanar equally spaced beams delivering a simultaneous integrated boost. Because modest differences in physical dose to the parotid were detected, a NTCP model based upon the clinical parameters of Eisbruch et al. was then used for comparisons. The conformality improved in all three CNS cases for the 5 mm plans compared to the 10 mm plans. For the organ avoidance plans, V 90 also improved in two of the three cases when the 5 mm leaf width was utilized for IMRTtreatment delivery. In the third case, both the 5 and 10 mm plans were able to spare the critical structure with none of the structure receiving more than 90% of the prescription dose, but in the moderate dose range, less dose was delivered to the critical structure with the 5 mm plan. For the head and neck cases both the 5 and 10×2.5 mm beamlets dMLC sliding window techniques spared the contralateral parotid gland while maintaining target volume coverage. The mean parotid dose was modestly lower with the smaller beamlet size (21.04 Gy vs 22.36 Gy). The resulting average NTCP values were 13.72% for 10 mm dMLC and 8.24% for 5 mm dMLC. In conclusion, five mm leaf width results in an improvement in physical dose distribution over 10 mm leaf width that may be clinically relevant in some cases. These differences may be most pronounced for single fraction radiosurgery or in cases where the tolerance of the sensitive organ is less than or close to the target volume prescription.
Substance Use and Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Risk Reduction and Prevention: A Novel Model for Treatment

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and substance use disorders (SUDs) frequently co-occur. Individuals with histories of alcohol or other drug use are at greater risk for sustaining TBI, and individuals with TBI frequently misuse substances before and after injury. Further, a growing body of literature supports the relationship between comorbid histories of mild TBI (mTBI) and SUDs and negative outcomes. Alcohol and other drug use are strongly associated with risk taking. Disinhibition, impaired executive function, and/or impulsivity as a result of mTBI also contribute to an individual's proclivity towards risk-taking. Risk-taking behavior may therefore, be a direct result of SUD and/or history of mTBI, and risky behaviors may predispose individuals for subsequent injury or continued use of substances. Based on these findings, evaluation of risk-taking behavior associated with the co-occurrence of SUD and mTBI should be a standard clinical practice. Interventions aimed at reducing risky behavior among members of this population may assist in decreasing negative outcomes. A novel intervention (Substance Use and Traumatic Brain Injury Risk Reduction and Prevention (STRRP)) for reducing and preventing risky behaviors among individuals with co-occurring mTBI and SUD is presented. Areas for further research are discussed.
Malfunctioning electrocardiographic monitor simulating sinus arrest.

A 64-year-old patient was admitted to the hospital with a history of two syncopal episodes. The results of the physical examination, resting electrocardiogram and Hisbundle study were all normal. Study with a 24-hour ECG monitor (Holter) was at first interpreted as demonstrating periods of sinus arrest. However, more careful examination revealed that these actually represented transient speeding of the monitor tape, perhaps secondary to a semiconductor malfunction. Such monitor malfunction may stimulate severe rhythm disturbances.
Pressure, Legitimacy, and Innovative Behavior by Public Organizations

According to New Public Management (NPM) doctrines, public organizations involved in service delivery and policy implementation will be induced to innovative behavior if they have enough managerial autonomy and simultaneously are subjected to managerial pressure, such as result control by government or competition of other providers. This NPM pressure-response model is tested by using survey data on 84 Flemish public organizations. These tests provide evidence for the assumed effect of NPM-like pressure on the innovative behavior of public organizations. However, the empirical model shows more complex relationships as is assumed by NPM doctrine. These complex relationships are corroborated and explained by making reference to a multiple-case study of four Flemish public organizations. An expanded political/administrative pressure-response model, referring to legitimacy as a motivational force, is suggested in order to explain innovative behavior by public organizations. This model may help to understand the preconditions for spontaneous adaptation of public organizations.
Intensity-Induced Changes in Optical Polarizations in Glasses

Using a single-mode ruby laser we have made the first measurements of intensity-induced changes of the optical polarization (ellipse rotation) in solids, viz., fused quartz and Schott BK-7 and SF-7 glasses for which we have obtained the nonlinear susceptibility values ${c}_{1221}(\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\omega}, \ensuremath{\omega}, \ensuremath{\omega}, \ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\omega})=1.5, 2.3, \mathrm{and} 9.9\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}15}$ esu, respectively. These values are accurate to within 10% relative to the value for liquid C${\mathrm{S}}_{2}$, which we used for calibration and determined from other experiments to be 37.8\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\ensuremath{-}14}$ esu to within 2%. We also show theoretically that a comparison of these values with electric-field-induced birefringence (Kerr) data can determine uniquely the fractional contribution to both of purely electronic nonlinearities. Existing Kerr data are only accurate enough at present for us to conclude that the electronic nonlinearities might dominate our effect.
Rat Adipose ob mRNA Levels in States of Altered Circulating Glucose and Insulin

We measured levels of ob mRNA in epididymal fat pads of rats exposed to manipulations designed to alter circulating insulin and glycemia. Changes in ob mRNA were compared to alterations in GLUT-4 glucose transporter mRNA, which is known to be regulated under these conditions. 48 h fasting decreased GLUT-4 mRNA to 23% of control with restoration beginning by 6 h refeeding and full restoration at 24 h. In contrast, ob mRNA decreased less markedly to 47% of control with only partial restoration by 24 h. Two days of streptozocin (STZ)-diabetes (glucose > 400 mg/100 ml) decreased GLUT-4 mRNA to 8% of control with restoration by two days of S.C. insulin. In contrast, ob mRNA decreased to 42% of control and was not restored by insulin. Six days of insulin administration to normal rats under conditions of ad lib. feeding, but without otherwise preventing the blood glucose from decreasing, resulted in no significant change in levels of either ob or GLUT-4 mRNA.
Memory conformity affects inaccurate memories more than accurate memories

After controlling for initial confidence, inaccurate memories were shown to be more easily distorted than accurate memories. In two experiments groups of participants viewed 50 stimuli and were then presented with these stimuli plus 50 fillers. During this test phase participants reported their confidence that each stimulus was originally shown. This was followed by computer-generated responses from a bogus participant. After being exposed to this response participants again rated the confidence of their memory. The computer-generated responses systematically distorted participants’ responses. Memory distortion depended on initial memory confidence, with uncertain memories being more malleable than confident memories. This effect was moderated by whether the participant's memory was initially accurate or inaccurate. Inaccurate memories were more malleable than accurate memories. The data were consistent with a model describing two types of memory (i.e., recollective and non-recollective memories), which d...
WE-D-I-609-08: Multimodality Small Animal Imaging: Registration of Functional EPR Images with MRI Anatomy

Purpose:Electron paramagnetic resonanceimaging (EPRI) is a spectroscopicimaging modality being developed for functional and molecular imaging in small animals, and has potential for ultimate translation to clinical imaging. By utilizing contrast agents (“spin probes”) whose EPR spectra are modified by the local environment, it is possible to produce images which directly measure important physiologic quantities. In studies of tumor response to radiation‐mediated gene therapy we have utilized EPR oxygen images, which provide 3D oxygen maps with resolution of ∼1mm spatially and ∼3 Torr in oxygen partial pressure. Like functional nuclear medicineimages,EPR oxygen images do not depict anatomy directly. Analysis is facilitated by the ability to use an anatomic image as a “roadmap” for interpretation of the functional images. We have developed methods for registration of EPRI with MRI to allow anatomically‐based analysis of these functional images.Method and Materials: EPRI is performed using locally developed spectroscopicimaging systems. MRI is performed on a 4.7T dedicated small animal system. Several registration techniques have been newly developed or adapted from clinical multimodality imaging. Fiducial markers visible in both EPRI and MRI can be attached to the animal or to the immobilization device. Simple point‐to‐point registration is possible using this method. Surface‐based and intensity‐based registration methods have also been applied. Customized immobilization devices are fabricated using a polymer dental impression material, analogous to foam cradles used in radiotherapy. Results: Both anatomically directed analysis of functional EPRimages and analysis of serial changes in defined anatomical regions during a course of therapy are enabled by the use of customized immobilization and anatomic/functional image registration.Conclusion:Image registration is critical for accurate interpretation of multimodality anatomic/functional small animal imaging. Techniques analogous to those in clinical use can be used with success in this setting.
Effect of DNA-binding drugs on early growth response factor-1 and TATA box-binding protein complex formation with the herpes simplex virus latency promoter.

Abstract Adjacent binding sites for early growth response factor-1 (EGR1) and TATA box-binding protein (TBP) were identified on the herpes simplex virus latency promoter in previous work. The binding of EGR1 to the GC-rich region prevented TBP binding to the AT-rich region. With the simultaneous addition of both EGR1 and TBP, the intercalator nogalamycin prevented EGR1 complex formation, resulting in a dose-dependent increase of the TBP·DNA complex. The minor groove binder chromomycin A3 inhibited EGR1 complex formation but resulted in a smaller increase of the TBP complex. In contrast, an alkylating intercalator hedamycin strongly inhibited binding of both proteins. The ability of these GC-binding drugs to prevent EGR1·DNA complex formation was in the following order: hedamycin > nogalamycin > chromomycin A3, and the specificity was nogalamycin > chromomycin A3 > hedamycin. With transcription factor IIA (TFIIA) in the assay, TBP was able to bind the promoter whereas formation of the EGR1·DNA complex was reduced. An AT minor groove-binding drug, distamycin A, disrupted the TBP·TFIIA·DNA complex and restored the EGR1·DNA complex. We conclude that the binding motif and sequence preference of DNA-interactive drugs are manifested in their ability to inhibit the transcription factor-DNA complexes.
Comparison and development of absorption peak determination algorithms for wavelength standards

Several peak determination algorithms are described and compared using the spectra of a NIST wavelenght/wavenumber standard reference material (SRM). These methods are the (1) centroid (or center of gravity) (with fraction value 0.5), (2) extrapolated centroid, (3) extrapolated bisecting, (4) polynomial curve fit, and (5) absolute maximum (minimum) methods. Comparisons are made of the peak wavelength value accuracy and reproducibility, versatility and other aspects of the peak determination methods. Optimization studies of the centroid, extrapolated centroid, and extrapolated bisecting peak determination methods, used for several NIST SRM's, have found that the peak value accuracy and precision can be improved by careful selection of peak fraction, spectral data density and polynomials fitting order (for extrapolated algorithms).
Law, professional practice, and professional organizations: Where do we go from here?

Abstract The ethical dilemmas presented to the practicing school psychologist by the plethora of laws that dictate procedures, policies, and instrumentation are discussed. The function of professional organizations, both national and state, is described as (a) anticipating legislation, (b) developing political impact, (c) affecting existing laws, and (d) affecting proposed legislation. Coordination of efforts among various groups and development of political expertise is urged as a way to approach issues of concern to both psychologists and their clients.
Assessment of body image organization of hospitalized and non-hospitalized subjects.

(1963). Assessment of Body Image Organization of Hospitalized and Non-Hospitalized Subjects. Journal of Projective Techniques and Personality Assessment: Vol. 27, No. 2, pp. 185-190.
Fluctuations in the phase-conjugate signal generated via degenerate four-wave mixing

Abstract The excess fluctuations of the phase-conjugate (PC) signal generated via pulsed degenerate four-wave mixing (DFWM) in sodium vapor are investigated. Various dye-laser oscillator and amplifier combinations are employed to trace the sources of these fluctuations. For DFWM driven by an externally-stabilized cw dye-laser oscillator amplified with a dye system pumped by the smoothed pulses of a Nd:YAG laser, the PC excess fluctuations are very highly correlated with the energy fluctuations of the input amplified dye-laser pulses. Thus, input-pulse selection on the basis of energy alone permits observation of the quantum-mechanical fluctuations of the PC signal.
Die Sonne bringt es an den Tag

Die Neutrinoforschung macht weitere Fortschritte. Mit dem Sudbury Neutrino Observatory lies sich die Oszillation von solaren Neutrinos stichhaltig belegen, und in Japan gelang es, Neutrinos aus Kernreaktoren nachzuweisen. Die Messwerte aller bisherigen Neutrinoexperimente ermoglichten es jetzt auch, den Anteil des CNO-Zyklus an der Energieerzeugung im Innern der Sonne einzugrenzen.
Interpretation of "Anomalous Inelastic Scattering"

Cohen's arguments on (p,p') reactions are examined in light of preliminary (p,d) dath. It is suggested that the shell model may be a good description of the states involved in (p,p') reactions. No attempt is made to calculate the relative intensities of the peaks. It is assumed that states due to the excitation of single particles appear in the (p,p') spectra, and states due to the excitation of two or more particles are sufficiently inhibited to be unimportant in describing the gross features of the spectra. (W.D.M.)
The effect of positional realignment on dose delivery to the prostate and organs-at-risk for 3DCRT.

Abstract In this study, we evaluate the impact of daily image-guided patient repositioning on dose delivery to prostate and sensitive organs in the treatment of prostate carcinoma with 3-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3DCRT). Five patients with substantial ultrasound-documented interfractional prostate motion during their 3DCRT treatment course were selected. Starting with the original treatment plan, 2 additional plans were retrospectively generated for each patient. In one set, organ contours were moved for each fraction, thus simulating positioning with misalignment caused by organ motion if ultrasound guidance were not used. In a second set of plans, the isocenter was shifted, as were the organ contours, simulating realignment based on the ultrasound image. In all cases, the number of planned monitor units was set to those of the original plan. For a given patient, isodose distributions, dose-volume histograms (DVHs), equivalent uniform dose (EUD) for prostate, and generalized equivalent uniform dose (gEUDs) for bladder and rectum were calculated for each fraction and then combined for each shift condition. In all reconstructed plans, the results show no substantial changes in dose coverage of the prostate (
Presistent diarrhea caused by Isospora belli: Therapeutic response to pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine

A 54-year-old human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive homosexual man developed overwhelming watery diarrhea and marked weight loss over a 3-week period. Although Entamoeba histolytica and other nonpathogenic enteric protozoa were observed along with Isospora belli in this patient's stool specimens, they were promptly eradicated after metronidazole (flagyl) treatment. The presence of I. belli oocysts in various stages of development in the stool and clinical symptoms related to Isospora infection persisted for 10 more months despite treatment with combined chemotherapeutic agents. Clinical and parasitiological resolution was ultimately achieved through an 8-week course of pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine
Stimulus-selective Inhibition of Rat Osteocalcin Promoter Induction and Protein-DNA Interactions by the Homeodomain Repressor Msx2

Osteocalcin (OC) is a matrix calcium-binding protein expressed in osteoblasts and odontoblasts undergoing mineralization. OC expression is up-regulated in part by signals initiated by basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF2), cyclic AMP or forskolin (FSK), and calcitriol via defined elements and DNA-protein interactions in the OC promoter. We identified the OC gene as a target for transcriptional suppression by Msx2, a homeodomain transcription factor that controls ossification in the developing skull. In this study, we examine the effects of Msx2 expression on OC promoter activation (luciferase reporter) by FGF2/FSK and calcitriol in MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts. Expression of Msx2 decreases basal activity of the 1-kilobase (−1050 to +32) rat OC promoter by 80%; however, the promoter is still inducible 3-fold by calcitriol. By contrast, OC promoter induction by FGF2/FSK is completely abrogated by Msx2. Because intrinsic Msx2 DNA binding activity is not required for the Msx2 suppressor function, we assessed whether Msx2 represses OC activation by regulating DNA-protein interactions at the FGF2 response element (OCFRE) and compared these interactions with those occurring at the calcitriol response element (VDRE). Treatment of MC3T3-E1 cells with FGF2/FSK or calcitriol up-regulates specific DNA-protein interactions at the OCFRE or VDRE, respectively, as detected by gel shift assay. Preincubation of crude nuclear extracts with recombinant glutathioneS-transferase (GST)-Msx2 dose-dependently inhibits OCFRE DNA binding activity, whereas GST has no effect. Msx2 itself does not bind the OCFRE. Residues 132–148 required for Msx2 core suppressor function in transfection assays are also required to inhibit OCFRE DNA binding activity. By contrast, GST-Msx2 has no effect on calcitriol-regulated DNA-protein interactions at the VDRE. Using gel shift as an assay, the OCFRE DNA-binding protein OCFREB was purified to about 50% homogeneity from MG63 osteosarcoma cells. Recombinant Msx2 inhibits purified OCFREB DNA binding activity, whereas the Msx2 variant lacking residues 132–148 is inactive. Thus, Msx2 abrogates up-regulation of the OC promoter by FGF2/FSK in part by inhibiting OCFREB binding to the OCFRE.
Knowledge and Dogmatism

There is a sceptical puzzle according to which knowledge appears to license an unacceptable kind of dogmatism. Here is a version of the corresponding sceptical argument: (1) If a subject S knows a proposition p, then it is OK for S to ignore all evidence against p as misleading; (2) It is never OK for any subject to ignore any evidence against their beliefs as misleading; (3) Hence, nobody knows anything.I distinguish between different versions of the puzzle (mainly a ‘permissibility’ version and a ‘closure’ version) and offer a solution for one version (the permissibility version) of the problem. No matter how much a subject knows, knowledge never gives one a license to ignore evidence against a proposition. Premise (1) of the argument is false and the puzzle can thus be resolved.
IMPROVED GENE DELIVERY FORMULATIONS AND EXPRESSION SYSTEMS FOR ENHANCED TRANSFECTION EFFICIENCY

Effective gene therapy requires efficient delivery of DNA to transfected cells followed by high levels of gene expression. Our laboratory has developed two new delivery formulations LPDI containing the DNA condensing agent protamine sulfate and reconstitued chylomicrons containing a hydrophobic lipidDNA complex. LPDI can produce higher levels of gene expression than the corresponding liposome/DNA complexes alone both in vitro and in vivo. Reconstituted chylomicrons also induce high gene expression in the liver through intraportal injection. To increase overall gene expression of delivered DNA, an improved cytoplasmic expression system has been developed using a unique T7 RNA polymerase autogene pCMVIT7-T7pol. High levels of reporter gene expression were detected in the presence of this new autogene.
Enthalpies of mixing in some binary liquid alkali fluoride mixtures

The enthalpies of mixing have been determined by a direct mixing technique for LiF + NaF, NaF + KF, and LiF + KF at 1360 K, and for LiF + KF also at 1176 K. The results are in reasonable agreement with values previously reported by Holm and Kleppa (LiF + NaF, NaF + KF, LiF + KF) and by Gilbert (LiF + KF), but differ significantly from recent data of Macleod and Cleland. The new results for LiF + KF show that the enthalpies of mixing in this system become less negative with increasing temperature; the maximum value of ΔCpM is about +0.8 calth K−1 mol−1 near mole fraction 0.5 in the range 1176 to 1360 K. A simple correlation between ΔCpM and −ΔHM is proposed.
Strategic technology scanning

Abstract This article proposes a procedure for strategic technology scanning, an activity that has received insufficient attention in the literature to date. Strategic technology scanning is needed to strengthen the link between technology and corporate strategy. This link is ever present although not always explicitly managed. For instance, while it is commonly recognized that the corporate mission dictates the technological interests of the organization, it is not always sufficiently emphasized that it is the quality of technology foresight that shapes the corporate mission in the first place. Scanning enhances technology foresight by seeking major distinguishing features in the technological landscape. These features are termed landmark technologies and serve as indicators of evolving technological and economic potential. For the strategic manager landmark technologies can become focal points for understanding the external environment, very much as core competencies have become focal points for understanding the internal capabilities of the organization. The scanning procedure proposed here is tailored to fit conventional procedures for strategic planning. However, it employs new theoretical structures from the field of strategic technology analysis; and calls for involvement of all levels of the corporate hierarchy-from the corporate board to the technology analyst. It seeks to maximize corporate learning.
Neonatal lead exposure: effects on development of behavior and striatal dopamine neurons.

Abstract Rats treated directly with water or lead acetate (25 or 75 mg/kg) on postnatal days 2 through 14 were tested for the development of spontaneous activity and for locomotor responses to d -amphetamine as weanlings. The development of striatal dopamine (DA) levels, uptake, release, and the disappearance of DA after synthesis inhibition were also examined. Blood and brain lead levels were markedly increased at 15 days in exposed animals; by 35 days blood lead levels had decreased 90% while lead level in neostriatum decreased only 55–60% The effects of the early lead exposure fell into two classes. Shortly after cessation of lead treatment, changes were observed in exposed animals in the development of motor activity, as well as in the disappearance of DA after synthesis inhibition, accumulation of labelled DA, and endogenous DA levels. As brain lead decreased from 15 to 35 days many of the behavioral and neurochemical abnormalities also dissipated. However, at 35 days, striatal DA levels remained decreased in animals given the higher lead dose with a resultant decrease in turnover rate and alterations were noted in activity responses to d -amphetamine in lead-treated animals.
Brief Multidimensional Students' Life Satisfaction Scale: Sex, Race, and Grade Effects for a High School Sample

Preliminary normative data for the total score of the Brief Multidimensional Students' Life Satisfaction Scale were collected from 5,034 adolescents in Grades 9 through 12 at public high schools in South Carolina. The statistically significant mean differences by race were of small magnitude. Mean total scores did not differ by sex or grade in school.
A Technique for Obtaining Detailed Wind Fields in a Frontal System from a Single-Doppler Radar

Abstract A technique is described for obtaining detailed horizontal winds in a “two-dimensional,” steady-state frontal system from a single-Doppler radar. Measurements obtained from this technique in a cold frontal system are presented.
Linear Chain Formation by an Oxovanadium(V) Complex of p-Methylhexahomotrioxacalix[3]arene

The oxovanadium(V) complex 4 can be readily synthesized by the reaction of the lithium salt of p-methylhexahomotrioxacalix[3]arene trianion 3 with VOCl(3). Infrared spectra indicate a terminal V=O for complex 4 in solution and V=O.V dative interactions in the solid state consistent with the formation of a m-oxo-bridged linear chain polymer 1 (M = V, Y = O, X(3) = trianion of macrocycle 2a). Vanadium-51 NMR spectra indicate increased shielding for the linear chain polymer in the solid state compared to complex 4 in solution. Complex 4 and its linear chain polymer are proposed to have the oxovanadium group contained within the cup of the macrocycle ligand as shown in structures 5 and 7, respectively, where the cone represents macrocycle 2a.