cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Genetic Dissection of Monoamine Neurotransmitter Synthesis in Drosophila

The biogenic monoamine neurotransmitters octopamine, dopamine and serotonin have been detected in nervous tissue from many insects1. We report here that intact Drosophila melanogaster brains, when incubated with the radioactive amino acids tyrosine and tryptophan, synthesized and accumulated labelled monoamines. In two mutant strains monoamine synthesis was abnormal. The pero mutation abolishes the normal circadian rhythm2–4. Brains from pero flies, when incubated in tritiated tyrosine, accumulated one-third as much labelled octopamine as did brains from wild-type flies, but had normal dopamine and serotonin synthesis. In contrast, dopa decarboxylase (Ddc) mutations5,6 decreased dopamine and serotonin synthesis but did not affect octopamine synthesis. These results suggest that there are two different aromatic amino acid decarboxylases in Drosophila brains, one that decarboxylates L-dopa and 5-hydroxytryptophan and another that decarboxylates tyrosine. Direct measurement of L-dopa, 5-hydroxytryptophan and tyrosine decarboxylase activities in the different strains confirmed this suggestion.
Money, interest rates, and risk

Abstract This paper analyzes the role of the risk in the form of the volatility of open market interest rates as a factor in the demand for money. We demonstrate, using an inventory theoretic model of money demand, that increases in interest rate volatility will increase the demand for money. We then present empirical evidence that the demand for money has been influenced by alterations in the volatility of open market rates using standard specifications of the demand for money.
Variations of the parameterized longest previous factor

The parameterized longest previous factor (pLPF) problem as defined for parameterized strings (p-strings) adds a level of parameterization to the longest previous factor (LPF) problem originally defined for traditional strings. In this work, we consider the construction of the pLPF data structure and identify the strong relationship between the pLPF linear time construction and several variations of the problem. Initially, we propose a taxonomy of classes for longest factor problems. Using this taxonomy, we show an interesting connection between the pLPF and popular data structures. It is shown that a subset of longest factor problems may be created with the pLPF construction. More specifically, the pLPF problem is used as a foundation to achieve the linear time construction of popular data structures such as the LCP, parameterized-LCP (pLCP), parameterized-border (p-border) array, and border array. We further generalize the permuted-LCP for p-strings and provide a linear time construction. A number of new variations of the pLPF problem are proposed and addressed in linear time for both p-strings and traditional strings, including the longest not-equal factor (LneF), longest reverse factor (LrF), and longest factor (LF). The framework of the pLPF construction is exploited to efficiently address a multitude of data structures with prospects in various applications. Finally, we implement our algorithms and perform various experiments to confirm theoretical results.
Transverse contributions to the nonlinear-conductivity-ternary correlation relations in non-relativistic plasmas

Abstract The statistical mechanical perturbation theoretic method of Kubo is used to calculate the nonlinear response of an equilibrium collection of classical plasma particles and radiation field oscillators; the equilibrium system is in a constant external magnetic field.
Delayed exhibition of erythroblastosis fetalis after eight normal pregnancies.

Summary A family is reported in which erythroblastosis fetalis occurred for the firsttime in the ninth born, although all previous offspring from the Rh-negative mother had been Rh positive. The basis for the dilayed exhibition of the siease was not determined, but whatever the explanational this case report confirsms previous observations that a mating between an Rh-negative woman and a homozygons Rh-positive man may not produce an crythroblastotic infant until after many pregnancies. Knowledge of this fact many offer encouragement to Rh incompatible ecouples contemplating marriage.
Genomic pathway analysis reveals that EZH2 and HDAC4 represent mutually exclusive epigenetic pathways across human cancers

Alterations in epigenetic marks, including methylation or acetylation, are common in human cancers. For many epigenetic pathways, however, direct measures of activity are unknown, making their role in various cancers difficult to assess. Gene expression signatures facilitate the examination of patterns of epigenetic pathway activation across and within human cancer types allowing better understanding of the relationships between these pathways. We used Bayesian regression to generate gene expression signatures from normal epithelial cells before and after epigenetic pathway activation. Signatures were applied to datasets from TCGA, GEO, CaArray, ArrayExpress, and the cancer cell line encyclopedia. For TCGA data, signature results were correlated with copy number variation and DNA methylation changes. GSEA was used to identify biologic pathways related to the signatures. We developed and validated signatures reflecting downstream effects of enhancer of zeste homolog 2(EZH2), histone deacetylase(HDAC) 1, HDAC4, sirtuin 1(SIRT1), and DNA methyltransferase 2(DNMT2). By applying these signatures to data from cancer cell lines and tumors in large public repositories, we identify those cancers that have the highest and lowest activation of each of these pathways. Highest EZH2 activation is seen in neuroblastoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, small cell lung cancer, and melanoma, while highest HDAC activity is seen in pharyngeal cancer, kidney cancer, and pancreatic cancer. Across all datasets studied, activation of both EZH2 and HDAC4 is significantly underrepresented. Using breast cancer and glioblastoma as examples to examine intrinsic subtypes of particular cancers, EZH2 activation was highest in luminal breast cancers and proneural glioblastomas, while HDAC4 activation was highest in basal breast cancer and mesenchymal glioblastoma. EZH2 and HDAC4 activation are associated with particular chromosome abnormalities: EZH2 activation with aberrations in genes from the TGF and phosphatidylinositol pathways and HDAC4 activation with aberrations in inflammatory and chemokine related genes. Gene expression patterns can reveal the activation level of epigenetic pathways. Epigenetic pathways define biologically relevant subsets of human cancers. EZH2 activation and HDAC4 activation correlate with growth factor signaling and inflammation, respectively, and represent two distinct states for cancer cells. This understanding may allow us to identify targetable drivers in these cancer subsets.
Modeling and Bayesian parameter estimation for shape memory alloy bending actuators

In this paper, we employ a homogenized energy model (HEM) for shape memory alloy (SMA) bending actuators. Additionally, we utilize a Bayesian method for quantifying parameter uncertainty. The system consists of a SMA wire attached to a flexible beam. As the actuator is heated, the beam bends, providing endoscopic motion. The model parameters are fit to experimental data using an ordinary least-squares approach. The uncertainty in the fit model parameters is then quantified using Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods. The MCMC algorithm provides bounds on the parameters, which will ultimately be used in robust control algorithms. One purpose of the paper is to test the feasibility of the Random Walk Metropolis algorithm, the MCMC method used here.
Surface treatment for forming unit-cell steps on the (0 0 1) KTaO3 substrate surface

Abstract A method for the preparation of unit-cell-high steps on the (1 0 0) surface of KTaO 3 has been developed. The effects of various surface treatments on the (1 0 0) KTaO 3 surface, specifically the chemical etching and annealing characteristics, are discussed. Surface step formation was observed for KTaO 3 single-crystals that were subjected to buffered HF etching followed by annealing in air. The resulting surface morphology of (0 0 1) KTaO 3 was examined using atomic force microscopy (AFM). The role of etching time and annealing temperatures in determining the resulting step structure, roughness, and particulate formation on the KTaO 3 surface is discussed.
Vesicoureteral Reflux, Reflux Nephropathy, and End-Stage Renal Disease

Objective. To review the contribution of vesicoureteral reflux and reflux nephropathy to end-stage renal disease. Data Source. Published research articles and publicly available registries. Results. Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is commonly identified in pediatric patients and can be associated with reflux nephropathy (RN), chronic kidney disease (CKD), and rarely end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Patients with reduced GFR, bilateral disease, grade V VUR, proteinuria, and hypertension are more likely to progress to CKD and ESRD. Because progression to ESRD is rare in VUR and often requires many decades to develop, there are limited prospective, randomized, controlled trials available to direct therapy to prevent progression to ESRD. Conclusions. Identification of patients with increased risk of progression to CKD and ESRD should be the goal of clinical, biochemical, and radiological evaluation of patients with VUR. Treatment of patients with VUR should be directed at preventing new renal injury and preserving renal function.
A macromolecular factor in some leukemic cells which binds folic acid.

SummaryThe reduction of 0.57 μμmoles of 3H-folic acid to tetrahydrofolic acid by folate reductase in the cell lysates from two patients with chronic myelogenous leukemia was not apparent until the total substrate concentration of the reaction mixture was raised by the addition of stable folic acid. In addition, these leukemic cell lysates inhibited the reduction of tracer 3H-folic acid by a leukemic cell lysate containing “normal” folate reductase activity. Gel-filtration experiments demonstrated that this phenomenon was due to binding of the tracer folate to a large molecule because 3H-folic acid preincu-bated with these peculiar leukemic cell lysates and filtered through Sephadex G-75 appeared in the early or excluded volume indicating that the substrate was bound to a factor with a molecular weight of at least 50,000. This binding of 3H-folic acid could be competitively inhibited by stable folate.I thank Carol Schreiber for her technical assistance for part of these studies, and Drs. Robert Goldstein a...
The cytoarchitecture, cytology, and synaptic organization of the basilar pontine nuclei in the rat. II. Electron microscopic studies

The basilar pontine gray in adult rats was subjected to electron microscopic examination in order to characterize: 1) certain general cytologic features, 2) the principle categories of presynaptic profiles, and 3) the postsynaptic targets of the various categories of presynaptic boutons. General cytologic features included the presence of neuronal somata exhibiting either a smooth contoured nucleus and central nucleolus or an irregularly contoured nucleus with numerous invaginations and an eccentric nucleolus. In addition, dendritic protrusions with variable morphology were apparent as well as a class of dendrites and somata with a curious dense, granular matrix. Four general types of presynaptic profiles were distinguished and were classified as: round vesicle boutons, elongate vesicle, pleomorphic vesicle, and dense core vesicle boutons. The category of round vesicle boutons formed asymmetric synaptic contacts and included three subtypes. One group contained vesicles with diameters of 25-35 nm, a second group contained larger (40-60 nm) round vesicles, and a third group of much larger boutons (2.5-6.8 microns) exhibited the smaller round vesicles. Another general category of presynaptic profile contained distinctly elongated synaptic vesicles, formed symmetrical active sites, and ranged in size from 0.4-1.7 microns. A third category of synaptic end-structures was distinguished by the presence of pleomorphic synaptic vesicles and microtubules and exhibited a distinctive pale or lucent matrix, while the fourth type was characterized by a mixed population of clear and dense core vesicles. Analysis of the distribution of such bouton types over the surface of pontine neurons revealed that: somata and proximal dendrites were contacted by round, elongate, and dense core vesicle boutons; intermediate and distal dendrites received synapses from all categories of boutons including the large endings with smaller round vesicles, while dendritic spines were contacted by round vesicle boutons (large and small), the large boutons, and elongate vesicle boutons. Synapses were also observed to occur between two vesicle-containing profiles. In such situations, pleomorphic vesicle boutons were found to be postsynaptic to either elongate vesicle boutons or small boutons with round vesicles and at the same time were presynaptic to a dendritic profile.
Size Independence and Sensitivity to Heart Failure for a New Noninvasive Index of Myocardial Performance. • 102

Using M-mode echocardiography and catheter pressures, we estimated left ventricular endsystolic mean fiberstress (σ) and natural strain (e) in a) patients with structurally normal hearts and b) rabbit and pig models of tachycardia-induced heart failure. Patient data (retrospective) combined catheterization pressures with post-cath echocardiography. Animal results contained simultaneous recordings. Wall thickness (h) was normalized to a calculated value at zero lumen volume (ho) to give strain,e=ln(ho/h). Calculations assumed constant myocardial volume and epicardial long- to short-axis ratio. End-systolic pressure (P) was estimated as 1/3(EDP+2PSP), EDP and PSP being minimum and maximum pressures. Total ventricular volume (Vt) and lumen volume (Vc) gave σ=(p* 1.33322)/[2/3ln(Vt/Vc)]. Plotted σ-e pairs from normal patient(37-124 gm) and animal (3-35 gm) ventricles were tighly clustered (Fig), the non-simultaneous recording results tending toward lower stresses. Values from paced pigs fell outside the cluster after one week of pacing and further diverged with additional pacing. Rabbit pacing results (3 weeks only) were similar to pig results. We conclude that this analysis provides myocardial function assessment that displays 1) sensitivity to even mildly dilated cardiomyopathy and 2) independence from normal ventricular size variation. The noninvasive availability of all needed quantities suggests utility in pediatric applications.
Counteracting Hate Speech as a Way of Preventing Genocidal Violence

Hate speech regularly, if not inevitably, precedes and accompanies ethnic conflicts, and particularly genocidal violence. Without such incitement to hatred and the exacerbation of xenophobic, anti-Semitic, or racist tendencies, no genocide would be possible and persecutory campaigns would rarely meet with a sympathetic response in the general public. In order to successfully prevent genocidal crimes and violence, therefore, it is indispensable to effectively address the problem of systematic incitement to hatred. While less virulent forms of hate speech may be adequately addressed by human-rights law obligations on governments to prohibit such acts, vicious, systematic, and state-organized hate propaganda should be criminalized under international law. Before discussing how hate speech can be treated as an international crime, this article assesses the most important justifications for proscribing hate speech, including the need to protect the human dignity and equality rights of the victims of such speech as well as the need to protect the public peace and the dangers of hate speech in that it may contribute to the creation of a climate of hatred and violence directed against a specific group. The article supports treating systematic incitement to hatred as a form of persecution, an approach recently upheld by the Appeals Chamber of the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda. Such an approach most adequately reflects the nature of hate speech and the motivations underlying its criminalization, while also respecting the important right to freedom of speech.
Coronary atherosclerosis, low-density lipoproteins and markers of thrombosis, inflammation and endothelial dysfunction

Available information regarding the relation among atherosclerosis, low-density lipoproteins, markers of thrombosis, inflammation and endothelial dysfunction has accumulated, but is still very limited, making only minimal contributions to clinical decision-making. Many more clinical trials are needed, but unless there is a relationship between atherosclerosis prevention, specific markers and a pharmaceutical product, financial support for such trials will be difficult to obtain. The anti-inflammatory effect of statins is well established. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors are generally not thought of as having anti-inflammatory effects, but the European Trial on Reduction of Cardiac Events with Perindopril in Stable Coronary Artery Disease (EUROPA) study observed extensive RR reduction with perindopril. It was explained not simply by control of hypertension, but by reduced activity of multiple factors, supported by specific substudies. The 'cardiovascular continuum' is an excellent unifying term to explain atherosclerosis mechanisms, relate mechanisms to clinical understanding, and assist the clinician in selecting the appropriate prevention and control therapies. This so-called continuum actually describes a relationship among different biochemical, enzymatic and hormonal factors that affect the cardiovascular system. It can be seen in the downregulation of the angiotensin II receptor type 1 by statins, which contributes to hypertension control while lowering low-density lipoproteins. Peroxisome proliferator activator receptor-gamma also demonstrates the cardiovascular continuum with activation of the receptor by glitazones. The glitazones increase insulin sensitivity for diabetes control. Activation of the peroxisome proliferator activator receptor-gamma inhibits inflammation, which is possibly related to atherosclerosis, normalization of endothelial function, suppression of metalloproteinases and a decrease in smooth muscle cell migration. All of these effects may decrease atherosclerosis production while improving control of diabetes mellitus, a key disease in the cardiovascular continuum for development of atherosclerosis. Consideration of such interrelationships is just scratching the surface. Nevertheless, it can be seen that the complicated process of atherosclerosis development has a multifaceted explanation that has been minimally defined, but holds the key to prevention and control of this major medical problem faced in modern society.
Static and dynamic models of biological networks

We consider static and dynamic approaches to the specification of probability distributions on graphs, consistent with desired statistical properties such as degree distributions, for use in modeling biological networks. In the static approach we develop analytical approximations to the Hamiltonian and partition functions. In the dynamic approach, we use a stochastic parameterized grammar to construct an evolutionary tree in which the nodes represent elements such as genes or cells and the links represent inheritance relations between the nodes. The grammar then constructs a network based on the feature vectors of the nodes in the tree. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 11: 57– 63, 2006
Moisture sorption characteristics and modeling of energy sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench).

Abstract Long-term low cost storage of whole-stalk lignocellulosic energy sorghum biomass (specialized forage varieties of Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) is essential for the feedstock's successful role as a dedicated energy crop for ethanol production. As an alternative to expensive ensiling methods, aerobic storage of S. bicolor (L.) Moench biomass in traditional rectangular bale formats could alleviate feedstock supply costs if material deterioration in storage could be minimized. Moisture desorption and adsorption isotherms for S. bicolor (L.) Moench were created at 15 °C, 20 °C, 30 °C, and 40 °C with water activities from 0.1 to 0.9 using the dynamic dew-point method. Sorption isotherms were modeled using four temperature dependent and three temperature independent equations. The relationship between equilibrium moisture content and water activity was found to decrease with increasing temperatures. GAB (Guggenheim–Anderson–de Boer) monolayer moisture content and the moisture content at which microbial activity becomes limited were found to range from 5.6% db to 10.4% dry basis (db) and 12.0% db to 18.4% db, respectively. The net isosteric heat of sorption was calculated using the Clausius–Clapeyron equation and determined to be higher for desorption than adsorption with both trends decreasing exponentially at increasing levels of moisture content. The differential entropy of S. bicolor (L.) Moench was shown to exhibit a log normal relationship with moisture; peaking near the monolayer moisture content. The results of the study indicate that aerobic storage of energy sorghum biomass may be similar to other herbaceous feedstocks should extensive drying occur before entering storage.
Systematics of charge-pickup reactions by GeV/nucleon heavy nuclei

We have measured cross sections for inclusive reactions in which 1.7 GeV/N /sup 56/Fe, 1.46 GeV/N /sup 84/Kr, 1.28 GeV/N /sup 139/La, and 0.8 GeV/N /sup 197/Au increased in charge by one unit. Combining these results with data on charge pickup by /sup 12/C, /sup 18/O, and /sup 20/Ne projectiles, we find that the cross section for charge pickup by /similar to/GeV/nucleon projectiles is generally given to within a factor of 2 by the expression sigma/sub ..delta..//sub Z//sub //sub = //sub +1/ = 1.7 x 10/sup -4/ ..gamma../sub P//sub T/A/sub P//sup 2/ (in mb), where ..gamma../sub P//sub T/ = A/sub P//sup 1/3/ +A/sub T//sup 1/3/-1.0. This expression, with roles of projectile and target interchanged, equally well fits cross sections for (p,xn) reactions at GeV energies when summed over x. The factor ..gamma../sub P//sub T/ implies peripheral collisions; the dependence on A/sub P//sup 2/ is the steepest ever reported for a nuclear process.
Droop improvement in high current range on PSS-LEDs

The droop property of blue GaN light emitting diodes (LEDs) has been improved by creating a 9 quantum well (QW) LED on a patterned sapphire substrate (PSS). The droop ratio was improved from 45.9 to 7.6%. At a wavelength of 447 nm, and with standard on-header packaging, the 9QW PSS-LED had an output power of 27.6 mW and an EQE of 49.7% at a current of 20 mA. The output power of the 9QW PSS-LED remains linear with increasing drive current, even up to relatively high current density, and the EQE is almost constant.
Neon and argon in the Allende meteorite

Trapped and cosmogenic Ne and Ar were measured in Ca,Al-rich aggregates and chondrules, mafic chondrules, and bulk and matrix samples from the Allende C3V chondritic meteorite to investigate the possible occurrence of anomalous isotopic compositions of noble gases that would correlate with oxygen or magnesium isotopic anomalies previously found in this meteorite. Large enrichments of both ^(22)Ne and ^(36)Ar were observed in low-temperature release fractions from several Ca,Al-rich inclusions, but the enrichments are consistent with galactic cosmic-ray production of 22Ne by spallation from sodium and ^(36)Ar by neutron capture on chlorine. Trapped neon in matrix samples is comprised of two distinctive compositions, with (^(20)Ne/^(22)Ne)_t equal to 8.7 ± 0.1 and 10.4 ± 1.0, that appear to correlate with the two gas-rich trace phases chromite/carbon and ‘Q’ described by Lewis et al. (1975). Several Ca,Al-rich aggregates which have high contents of the volatile elements Na, Cl, K, and Rb also contain trapped neon. However, no neon-E has been identified in any of the samples studied, including samples of several inclusions known to contain isotopically anomalous oxygen and magnesium.
Rheo-optical studies of the effect of weak Brownian rotations in sheared suspensions

Etude experimentale de l'effet de petits couples browniens sur la dynamique de suspensions diluees de particules de Jeffery dans un ecoulement cisaille simple a l'aide de la technique de dichroisme lineaire
Fibroma virus-induced acid deoxyribonuclease in rabbit kidney cells.

Acid deoxyribonuclease (DNase) activity increased 6 to 10 fold in primary rabbit kidney (PRK) cells infected with Shope rabbit fibroma virus. Increase in enzyme synthesis was proportional to viral DNA replication. Addition of actinomycin D or puromycin to cultures terminated enzyme synthesis, indicating requirement for messenger RNA andde novo protein synthesis. The enzyme which was concentrated by ammonium sulfate precipitation and purified by DEAE cellulose chromatography degraded single and double-stranded DNA in a ratio of 2∶1 and required Mg++ ions for optimal activity. It was inactivated by more than 80 per cent in 5 minutes at 50° C and the presence of deoxynucleoside triphosphates in a reaction mixture inhibited its activity.
Evolving Spike Neural Network Sensors to Characterize the Alcoholic Brain Using Visually Evoked Response Potential

The electrical activity of the brain in response to a visual stimulus can be recorded using EEG. These signals are complex spatially-distributed time series. Here we investigate if it is possible to find hidden temporal patterns in these evoked electrical signals that could characterize the alcoholic brain. We have developed a technology for evolving spike neural network (SNN) sensors for detecting such hidden patterns in time-varying signals. The evolutionary computation involves a novel chromosome structure and a hybrid crossover operator for it. We have also developed a design rule for SNN-based temporal pattern detectors (TPD) that can detect a predefined inter-spike interval pattern in an incoming spike train. The design rule eliminates the need to tune the network parameters leaving only the design specifications to be learned. The primary goal of the evolutionary process is to select a set of EEG leads along with weights and to evolve the design specifications for the TPDs. After converting the composite EEG signal to a spike train, the TPDs are evaluated based on their ability to distinguish the alcoholic and the control cases. The early results suggest that this approach may be reliably used for characterizing the alcoholic brain.
Use of oligodeoxynucleotide probes for quantitative in situ hybridization to actin mRNA

We have employed an analytical approach for the development of an in situ hybridization methodology using synthetic oligodeoxynucleotide probes for actin messenger RNA detection in cultures of chicken fibroblasts and myoblasts. The methodology developed shows that oligonucleotides can complement the use of nick-translated probes in specific situations. Since they can be made to specific nucleic acid regions independent of restriction enzyme sites, they may be the most convenient approach for analysis of gene families among which sequences are highly conserved. However, it was found that oligonucleotides synthesized to different regions of a messenger RNA behave in situ with differing efficiencies, indicating that not all target sequences are equivalent. Therefore it was necessary to screen several oligonucleotide probes to a target molecule to find the optimal one. The convenience of using synthetic DNA probes makes it worthwhile to explore some of these characteristic properties so as to increase the sensitivity of this approach beyond its application to targets in high abundance.
Preparation of High Specific Activity Hydrogen Sulphide (H 2 S 35 ) from Neutron-Irradiated Potassium Chloride

THE recent note of U. Croatto and A. G. Maddock1 pointing out the desirability of producing radio sulphur in its lowest, rather than in its highest, valency form, as it ordinarily occurs when potassium chloride is irradiated with slow neutrons, has prompted us to comment on the method used in this laboratory for producing H2S35 from neutron-irradiated potassium chloride.
Toward information retrieval Web services for digital libraries

Information retrieval (IR) functions serve a critical role in many digital library systems. There are numerous mature IR algorithms that have been implemented and it will be a waste of resources and time to re-implement them. The implemented IR algorithms can be distributed or their functions made available through the framework of web services. Web services in the IR domain have not been widely tested. Concept extraction is an important area in traditional IR. We demonstrated that it can be easily adopted as IR web services and can be accessed in multiple ways. For the IR web services, we take advantage of a term representation database which was created as a result of a previous digital library project containing 31, 928, 892 terms found on 49, 602, 191 pages of the web.
Use of IRI to model the effect of ionosphere emission on earth remote sensing at L-band

Microwave remote sensing in the window at 1.413 GHz (L-band) set aside for passive use only is important for monitoring sea surface salinity and soil moisture. These parameters are important for understanding ocean dynamics and energy exchange between the surface and atmosphere, and both NASA and ESA plan to launch satellite sensors to monitor these parameters at L-band (Aquarius, Hydros and SMOS). The ionosphere is an important source of error for passive remote sensing at this frequency. In addition to Faraday rotation, emission from the ionosphere is also a potential source of error at L-band. As an aid for correcting for emission, a regression model is presented that relates ionosphere emission to the integrated electron density (TEC). The goal is to use TEC from sources such as TOPEX, JASON or GPS to obtain estimates of emission over the oceans where the electron density profiles needed to compute emission are not available. In addition, data will also be presented to evaluate the use of the IRI for computing emission over the ocean.
Characterization of foxtail (Setaria spp) seed production and giant foxtail (S faberi) seed dormancy at abscission

The foxtails are cosmopolitan weeds and among the most troublesome in agriculture. High seed production and seed dormancy are important attributes contributing to the success of the foxtails as weeds. The amoimt and sources of germination variability among giant foxtail seed were evaluated. Seed from a single genetic line of giant foxtail was grown under field, greenhouse and growth chamber conditions. Germination assays were conducted at abscission and following stratification and seed dissection. Most giant foxtail seed were shed dormant. As the seed rain progressed, mean germination percentage and variability in the germination requirements among samples increased. Changes in seed dormancy were associated with biological and environmental parameters. Within an individual panicle, seed that developed later were more likely to germinate than those that developed earlier. Seed from panicles that developed relatively later on a plant were also more likely to germinate than seed from panicles that developed earlier. Seed grown in the field were less dormant than those grown in the greenhouse which were in turn less dormant than those from growth chamber conditions. It is possible that each seed has an individual germination requirement. Seed from giant, green and yellow foxtail panicles were collected throughout the reproductive period. A higher number of seed was found than has been generally reported. Although seed number per panicle, panicle length and seed density (seed number per unit panicle length) varied among foxtail species, panicles and sites, some consistent relationships were found. The relationship between seed number
Entropy of Absolute Convex Hulls in Hilbert Spaces

The metric entropy of absolute convex hulls of sets in Hilbert spaces is studied for the general case when the metric entropy of the sets is arbitrary. Under some regularity assumptions, the results are sharp. The Krein–Milman theorem is a powerful tool in analysis. To quantify this theorem, a number of researchers have studied the entropy numbers of the convex hulls of precompact sets in a Banach space or a Hilbert space. The goal is to obtain a sharp upper bound for the entropy of the convex hull conv(T ), knowing the entropy of the set T . The importance of this problem was addressed by Dudley in [7], where some special cases were studied. Dudley’s results were improved by Ball and Pajor [2] and Carl [4], and extended to Banach spaces by Carl, Kyrezi and Pajor [5]. Recall that
TLR4 Is the Signaling but Not the Lipopolysaccharide Uptake Receptor

TLR4 is the primary recognition molecule for inflammatory responses initiated by bacterial LPS (endotoxin). Internalization of endotoxin by various cell types is an important step for its removal and detoxification. Because of its role as an LPS-signaling receptor, TLR4 has been suggested to be involved in cellular LPS uptake as well. LPS uptake was investigated in primary monocytes and endothelial cells derived from TLR4 and CD14 knockout C57BL/6 mice using tritiated and fluorescein-labeled LPS. Intracellular LPS distribution was investigated by deconvolution confocal microscopy. We could not observe any difference in LPS uptake and intracellular LPS distribution in either monocytes or endothelial cells between TLR4(-/-) and wild-type cells. As expected, CD14(-/-) monocytes showed a highly impaired LPS uptake, confirming CD14-dependent uptake in monocytes. Upon longer incubation periods, the CD14-deficient monocytes mimicked the LPS uptake pattern of endothelial cells. Endothelial cell LPS uptake is slower than monocyte uptake, LBP rather than CD14 dependent, and sensitive to polyanionic polymers, which have been shown to block scavenger receptor-dependent uptake mechanisms. We conclude that TLR4 is not involved in cellular LPS uptake mechanisms. In membrane CD14-positive cells, LPS is predominantly taken up via CD14-mediated pathways, whereas in the CD14-negative endothelial cells, there is a role for scavenger receptor-dependent pathways.
Primary attributions in women suffering fibromyalgia emphasize the perception of a disruptive onset for a long-lasting pain problem

Abstract Objective Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic musculoskeletal pain disorder characterized by widespread pain. This study focuses on patients’ attributions of illness and of symptom onset. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 56 women to elicit patients’ views on what triggered their FM. The transcripts of the interviews were analyzed using a classical indexing technique to identify key themes. Content analysis was performed by two independent coders. Results Primary causal attributions fell into five categories: psychological problems (28 respondents); somatic concerns (N = 12); violence/abuse during childhood (N = 7), gynaecological/obstetrical problems (N = 6), and fatigue (N = 3). Patients’ attributions were internal and external in the same proportions, more frequently unstable than stable, and more often described uncontrollable than controllable. Participants expressed decrements in self-esteem and feelings such as self-blame or despair; global perceptions of persistent pain and long-lasting problems, evoking chronicity and hopelessness; and low perceived control over their lives as well as beliefs that nothing can be done, thus increasing a feeling of guilt and vulnerability. Patients’ narratives emphasized disruptive circumstances surrounding symptom onset. Conclusion Attributions often referred to the psychological dimension of the events surrounding FM onset, even though some of them also had a clear somatic dimension. Many narratives mentioned successive disruptive events and suggested an increasing loss of control. Addressing these illness representations may contribute to tailor the treatment and to help patients gain self-coherency by providing means to understand pain onset but also to guide future behaviours, particularly in terms of adjustment and help-seeking.
Earthquake repeat time and average stress drop

Existing data on source parameters of large crustal earthquakes (subduction events are not considered here) over a wide range of repeat times indicate that, for a given magnitude (M_s or M_w), earthquakes with long repeat times have shorter fault lengths than those with short repeat times. A shorter fault length for a given magnitude indicates a larger average stress drop which reflects the average strength of the fault zone. Our result therefore suggests that faults with longer repeat times are stronger than those with shorter repeat times. In terms of an asperity model in which the average strength of a fault zone is determined by the ratio, r_a, of the total area of the asperities (strong spots on a fault plane) to the total area of the fault zone, the above result suggests that r_a is proportional to the repeat time. Our result provides a method to estimate seismic source spectra from the fault length and the repeat time of a potential causative fault.
Establishing Friendships in Early Childhood Inclusive Settings: What Roles Do Parents and Teachers Play?

Adult support of 12 specific friendship dyads involving 3- to 5-year-old children with and without developmental delays was investigated through semi-structured interviews with the children’s parents and teachers. Most respondents described these friendships as harmonious and important for the emotional benefits that these relationships provided children. Parents and teachers reported supporting the friendships through a variety of strategies, ranging from setting up the social environment to helping friends interact with each other and engaging in home-school communication on the topic of friendship. Findings also indicated that some of these strategies may have been implemented incidentally, rather than being intentionally focused on friendship support. Teachers reported giving information and being asked about or provided with information but did not report asking parents for information relating to specific friendships.
Targeted Imaging of Ewing Sarcoma in Preclinical Models Using a 64Cu-Labeled Anti-CD99 Antibody

Purpose: Ewing sarcoma is a tumor of the bone and soft tissue characterized by diffuse cell membrane expression of CD99 (MIC2). Single-site, surgically resectable disease is associated with an excellent 5-year event-free survival; conversely, patients with distant metastases have a poor prognosis. Noninvasive imaging is the standard approach to identifying sites of metastatic disease. We sought to develop a CD99-targeted imaging agent for staging Ewing sarcoma and other CD99-expressing tumors. Experimental Design: We identified a CD99 antibody with highly specific binding in vitro and labeled this antibody with 64 Cu. Mice with either subcutaneous Ewing sarcoma xenograft tumors or micrometastases were imaged with the 64 Cu-labeled anti-CD99 antibody and these results were compared with conventional MRI and 2[18F]fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose–positron emission tomography (FDG–PET) imaging. Results: 64 Cu-labeled anti-CD99 antibody demonstrated high avidity for the CD99-positive subcutaneous tumors, with a high tumor-to-background ratio, greater than that demonstrated with FDG–PET. Micrometastases, measuring 1 to 2 mm on MRI, were not detected with FDG–PET but were readily visualized with the 64 Cu-labeled anti-CD99 antibody. Probe biodistribution studies demonstrated high specificity of the probe for CD99-positive tumors. Conclusions: 64 Cu-labeled anti-CD99 antibody can detect subcutaneous Ewing sarcoma tumors and metastatic sites with high sensitivity, outperforming FDG–PET in preclinical studies. This targeted radiotracer may have important implications for the diagnosis, surveillance, and treatment of Ewing sarcoma. Similarly, it may impact the management of other CD99 positive tumors. Clin Cancer Res; 20(3); 678–87. ©2013 AACR .
Group Projects Using Clients Versus Not Using Clients Do Students Perceive Any Differences

Today's educators are faced with the challenge of preparing undergraduate students to be productive employees who can communicate effectively, work well in teams, and solve problems, as well as demonstrate content knowledge. Group projects are one tool that educators can use to help students develop these key skills. Educators may be tempted to try client-based projects in which students consult with real companies, an approach that may involve extensive preparation for the faculty member, or opt instead for a less labor-intensive option, such as having students work on hypothetical problems for established companies. Faculty must decide what type of project will most benefit their students and, at the same time, will not be too complex to administer. In this article the authors discuss literature regarding group projects using real world clients (client-based learning) and they empirically test whether the nature of the project has any influence on how the students perceive the project as a motivational ...
Asparagine Utilization in Escherichia coli

Asparagine-requiring auxotrophs of Escherichia coli K-12 that have an active cytoplasmic asparaginase do not conserve asparagine supplements for use in protein synthesis. Asparagine molecules entering the cell in excess of the pool required for use of this amino acid in protein synthesis are rapidly degraded rather than accumulated. Supplements are conserved when asparagine degradation is inhibited by the asparagine analogue 5-diazo-4-oxo-l-norvaline (DONV) or mutation to cytoplasmic asparaginase deficiency. A strain deficient in cytoplasmic asparaginase required approximately 260 μmol of asparagine for the synthesis of 1 g of cellular protein. The cytoplasmic asparaginase (asparaginase I) is required for growth of cells when asparagine is the nitrogen source. This enzyme has an apparent Km for l-asparagine of 3.5 mM, and asparaginase activity is competitively inhibited by DONV with an apparent Ki of 2 mM. The analogue provides a time-dependent, irreversible inhibition of cytoplasmic asparaginase activity in the absence of asparagine.
Mitochondrial superoxide dismutase activation with 17 β-estradiol-treated human lens epithelial cells

Purpose: 17 β -estradiol (17β-E2) protects human lens epithelial cells against oxidative stress by preserving mitochondrial function in part via the non-genomic rapid activation of prosurvival signal transduction pathways. The study described herein examined whether 17β-E2 also elicits genomic protection by influencing the expression (and activity) of mitochondrial-associated manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) as a possible parallel mechanism by which 17β-E2 protects against oxidative stress. Methods: Virally-transformed human lens epithelial cells (HLE-B3) were pre-incubated with 17β-E2, and mRNA or protein lysates were collected over a time course ranging from 90 min to 24 h. Positive expression of lens epithelial cell MnSOD mRNA was determined by semi-quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR), and its levels were monitored by real-time PCR up to 24 h after 17β-E2 administration. Western blot analysis was used to examine the pattern of protein expression as influenced by 17β-E2 treatment. MnSOD activity as influenced by 17β-E2 was determined by measuring enzymatic activity. Results: A significant rapid increase in the activity of MnSOD was observed with HLE-B3 cells by 90 min post-bolus addition of 17β-E2, which returned to control level by 240 min. Neither an increase in MnSOD mRNA nor in protein expression was detected up through 24 h. Conclusions: These data demonstrate that 17β-E2 rapidly and transiently increases the activity of MnSOD but influences neither its mRNA expression nor its protein expression. The results suggest that (estrogen-activated) MnSOD plays an important role against mitochondrial oxidative stress by diminishing reactive oxygen species, thus promoting cell survival.
Response of Sheep Lymphocytes to PHA: Quantitation by Nuclear Volume Measurement and Cell Counts

Phytohemagglutinin response of peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) of sheep was studied. Assessment of proliferative response was performed by determination of nuclear volumes and cell counts in cultures from 14 sheep and by incorporation of tritiated thymidine in cultures in four additional sheep. PBL of sheep were found to transform and proliferate with PHA similarly to human peripheral blood lymphocytes with minor differences. Quantitation of the proliferative response by determining the cell count and nuclear volumes provided more information on cell kinetics in culture than the commonly used isotope-labeled thymidine incorporation method.
Creative and Technical Instruction in Apparel Design Successfully Goes On-Line

THE RECENT ADOPTION of computers in the apparel industry signals a challenge to educators in higher education to revamp the apparel design curricula and include computer-aided design (CAD). Simulations of apparel design and the manufacturing process, aimed at effective transfer of knowledge and skills from classroom to workplace, augment teaching strategies. Projects synthesizing traditional methods and computer technology form an integral part of the curriculum, and students receive much encouragement to undertake independent research and studio projects and to participate in design competitions. Successful integration of apparel design curricula requires that students and faculty modify various aspects of the teaching-learning transation. New technology acts as a catalyst for initiating transformations in apparel design programs and instructional strategies.
Privatization of Wrongful Dismissal Protection in Comparative Perspective

The U.S. Supreme Court has allowed employers to sweep employee claims of violation of most labor protective law into arbitration systems that employers unilaterally establish. The law would not allow employers in the United Kingdom, France, or Germany to do so. This essay explores how and why that is so in each of these countries. It explains the U.S. exceptionalism by reference to public choice theory, i.e., by resort to the economies of judicial shirking.