cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
RNA synthesis in isolated nuclei: the use of mercurated nucleotides

Abstract We have used uridine 5' triphosphate-5-mercury (Hg-UTP) in place of UTP to study RNA synthesis in a previously described isolated nuclei system (1). Employing isopycnic density gradient centrifugation to separate RNAs based upon their relative content of Hg-U, several conclusions can be drawn. In vitro RNA synthesis consists of end addition onto pre-initiated HnRNA molecules as well as apparent initiation of new HnRNA molecules de novo. Synthesis in our system continues linearly for greater than two hours. The chain elongation rate has been measured to be about 500 nucleotides per minute. The methods used to make these measurements are generally applicable to other in vitro systems.
GONADOTROPHIC HORMONE: PROTECTION AGAINST INACTIVATION

GONADOTKOPHIC hormones stimulate gonadal growth, maturation and secretion. The simultaneous administration of certain substances modifies the action of gonadotrophins. These substances have been classified according to their mode of action, as (1) synergists and (2) augmentors. Synergists are themselves gonadotrophic substances which exert their modifying influence at the end-organ—the gonad. Synergism occurs whether the synergist is injected at the same site, or at a site distant from the gonadotrophin injection. It is exemplified by the increase in ovarian response which results from the simultaneous administration of chorionic gonadotrophin and pituitary gonadotrophin (Leonard, 1932). Augmentors exert their modifying influence by delaying absorption of gonadotrophins from the site of injection (Evans, Hines, Ceithaml and Koch, 1940). They are inert if injected at a site different than the gonadotrophin (Maxwell, 1934; Bischoff, 1945). They include such chemically diverse materials as whole blood (Casid...
Viral Latency and Its Regulation: Lessons from the γ-Herpesviruses

Latency is a state of cryptic viral infection associated with genomic persistence and highly restricted gene expression. Its hallmark is reversibility: under appropriate circumstances, expression of the entire viral genome can be induced, resulting in the production of infectious progeny. Among the small number of virus families capable of authentic latency, the herpesviruses stand out for their ability to produce such infections in every infected individual and for being completely dependent upon latency as a mode of persistence. Here, we review the molecular basis of latency, with special attention to the γ-herpesviruses, in which the understanding of this process is most advanced.
Exaggeration of postprandial hyperglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes by administration of caffeine in coffee.

ABSTRACT Objective To test whether caffeine administered in coffee increases postprandial hyperglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes who are habitual coffee drinkers. Methods The study used a within-subject, double-blind, placebo-controlled experimental design. Twenty adult coffee drinkers (11 women and 9 men) with type 2 diabetes treated with diet, exercise, orally administered antidiabetic agents, or some combination of these factors completed two mixed-meal tolerance tests (MMTT) after an overnight fast. Before the MMTT, each study participant received 250 mg of caffeine in 16 oz (475 mL) of decaffeinated coffee or decaffeinated coffee alone, with the treatment order counterbalanced in the group. Fasting and 1-hour and 2-hour postprandial blood samples were collected for measurement of plasma glucose and insulin concentrations. Results Glucose and insulin responses to the MMTT were quantified by the incremental areas under the 2-hour concentration-time curves (AUC2h). Administration of caffeine in decaffeinated coffee increased postprandial glucose and insulin responses (both P = 0.02). The mean plasma glucose AUC2h was 28% larger and the mean plasma insulin AUC2h was 19% larger after administration of caffeine than after administration of placebo. Conclusion Other constituents in coffee did not prevent the exaggeration of postprandial hyperglycemia by caffeine in these patients with type 2 diabetes, who were habitual coffee drinkers. Repeated on a daily basis, such effects could impair long-term glucose control in those patients with type 2 diabetes who habitually drink coffee or other caffeinated beverages. (Endocr Pract. 2007;13: 239-243)
Low Blood Zinc, Iron, and Other Sociodemographic Factors Associated with Behavior Problems in Preschoolers

Previous research supports the link among malnutrition, cognitive dysfunction, and behavioral outcomes; however, less research has focused on micronutrient deficiencies. This study investigates whether micronutrient deficiencies, specifically blood zinc and iron levels, will be associated with increased behavior problem scores, including internalizing and externalizing behaviors. 1314 Children (55% boys and 45% girls) from the Jintan Preschool Cohort in China participated in this study. Venous blood samples were collected and analyzed for zinc and iron when the children were 3–5 years old. Behavior problems were measured with the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL), which was completed by the parents when children were in their last months of preschool (mean age 5.6 years). General linear multivariate modeling was used, with adjustment for important sociodemographic variables. The results indicate that low zinc levels alone (p = 0.024) and combined low zinc and iron levels (p = 0.022) are significantly associated with increased reports of total behavior problems. We did not find an association between low iron and behavior problems. With regards to sociodemographics, living in the suburbs is associated with increased internalizing problems, while higher mother’s education and being female were associated with decreased externalizing problems. This study suggests that micronutrient deficiencies and sociodemographic facts are associated with behavior problems in preschoolers.
An exploratory study of some learning-based procedures for modifying stuttering

Abstract Fifteen stutterers read aloud, three times in succession, a list of 75 common monosyllable nouns. Words that were consistently stuttered or spoken with consistent fluency were the test elements of this study. In the experimental conditions, half of these words were audibly presented to the subjects in quick succession. In the matched silent condition, the other half of the consistently stuttered or fluent words were not repetitively presented. After each of these situations, the subjects orally read the original word list three additional times. The consistency of stuttering decreased significantly in both the auditory and silent conditions. Less absolute stuttering occurred in the auditory condition than in the silent condition but, apparently because of sample size, significance was not reached. Consistent fluency, like consistent stuttering, was demonstrated to be a reliable phenomenon. The consistency of stuttering and fluency is viewed in conditioning terms; the decrease in stuttering is viewed in deconditioning terms.
Understanding Vulvovaginal Candidiasis Through a Community Genomics Approach

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), predominantly caused by Candida albicans, is one of the most common types of infectious vaginitis. Extensive study has been directed toward understanding host defenses against this infection, and results remain inconclusive. While many have examined the role of innate and cell-mediated immunity, as well as Candida-specific antibodies and the anti-Candida activity of vaginal epithelial cells, little attention has been given to one of the most important players: the vaginal microbiota. Exploring changes in species composition and gene expression within the vaginal community using high-throughput genomic technologies is invaluable to fully understanding Candida pathogenesis and host response to infection. This integrative perspective of pathogenesis, host response and microbial influence are critical to our ability to improve routine gynecologic care and treatment of vaginal infections.
Engagement or Regurgitation? Teaching American Government without a Textbook

A great deal of debate exists regarding the pedagogical utility of using a standard textbook in the introductory American government course. We used a quasi-experimental research design to test empirically the assertion that teaching American politics without using a textbook will foster superior learning by students and greater satisfaction with the course. Two sections of the course were taught using a standard textbook, and two sections were taught using a series of short, critical books on American politics. Student performance was evaluated through the use of a pretest and posttest, midterm and final examinations, and a questionnaire. Contrary to our expectations, we found evidence that students learn more and perform better on exams when a standard textbook is used Based on these findings, we suggest that instructors carefully consider the decision toforego using a textbook in the introductory American government course.
Direct observations of interactions between imperfect loops and moving dislocations in aluminium

Abstract Observations have been made by transmission electron microscopy on the interactions between faulted dislocation loops and moving dislocations in high purity aluminium. Thin single crystals were quenched from 650°c and 540°c into water at 0°c. In both cases most of the loops enclosed a stacking fault. Their average diameter was 250 A in the first case, 900 A in the second case. Surface orientation for all foils was (110), which made possible easy identification of Burgers vectors for both loops and moving dislocations. When a moving dislocation came close to or in contact with a loop the stacking fault was always completely destroyed and part or all of the loop was brought to the surface of the foil by prismatic glide.
The refugee movement: an overview.

While international migration has often furthered human rights, led to the enhancement of human dignity, relieved population pressures, helped in the development and enrichment of receiving nations and facilitated cultural interchange, hindrances to such international move? ment have just as often led to social injustice and the demeaning of various peoples at various points in history. In fact, to impede migratory movement is a violation of human rights which can lead to uncircumscribed human suffering such as that which existed during the Nazi hegemony over Europe, when escape routes were blocked. The right to leave one's country is a basic human right. Socrates regarded it as an "attribute of personal liberty". The Magna Carta incorporated it for the first time into national law. The French Constitu? tion of 1791 provided for the same guarantee, and an act of the U.S. Congress in 1868 declared that "the right of expatriation is a natural and inherent right of all people, indispensable to the enjoyment of the rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness". Frequently, this right to leave, is associated with refugees and the necessity to seek asylum beyond the borders of one's native land. As such, it must be noted, that there exist situations (e.g. in both hemispheres) where some people, within their native country, or nationality, are oppressed and uprooted, or impeded from living in accordance with their cultural and religious customs which are distinctive from those of the majority culture. Such negative conditions, constituting "push factors" which might be resolved through international migration, are frequently frustrated by such governments in policies restricting emigration. Whether the refugee is within an inhospitable country or elsewhere, his position is especially precarious. Paul Weiss, former director of the Legal Division of the United Nations High Commission for Refugees, noted:
Spectral representations for the memory kernel characterizing self-diffusion

Approximate spectral representations are developed for the memory kernel which characterizes self-diffusion. These spectral representations are based upon approximate eigenfunctions constructed via the Rayleigh variational principle. A heuristic model is developed first in an effort to provide physical insight into the nature of the approximations employed, and then a number of specific trial functions are examined. These trial functions include sums of identical one- and two-particle functions as well as linear combinations of hydrodynamical variables. The results from these spectral representations indicate that the long-time behavior of the memory kernel (and thereby of the momentum autocorrelation function) is sensitive to the long-range effects of the interparticle potential. In addition, the equivalence of most of these spectral representations to specific low-order perturbation approximations is demonstrated.
Vapour—liquid equilibrium studies for the ethane—n-pentane—n-heptane system at 150, 200, 250, 300 and 350°F

The vapour—liquid equilibrium behaviour of the ethane—n-pentane—n-heptane system was investigated at 150, 200, 250, 300 and 350°F for pressures approaching the critical state. This experimental investigation utilized the static method approach for a total of twenty-one cell charges of this system. Co-existing equilibrium vapour and liquid samples were analysed with a gas chromatograph. The results of this study, covering the pressure range from 400 psia up to the critical pressure, are tabulated and are presented graphically. In addition, the equilibrium compositions for the vapour and liquid phases together with their corresponding K values for composition parameters of C = 0·200, 0·400, 0·600 and 0·800 are also tabulated.
INSTABILITY IN RURAL-URBAN MIGRATION*

Following decades of large-scale rural-urban migration in developing countries the authors note the recent growth in reverse migration or migration from urban centers to suburban or rural areas which suggests that the labor market adjustment process may be unstable. "It is our purpose here to investigate the question of stability using some recent developments in nonlinear dynamic analysis and to do so within a framework which closely resembles the original Harris-Todaro model. We find that instability is indeed a possibility and that regular or irregular nonperiodic fluctuations can be propagated--even in the absence of any exogenous shocks. The source of these results is the lag in adjustment on labour markets combined with the nonlinearity of the labour supply function." (EXCERPT)
A prospective trial for laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding in morbidly obese adolescents: an interim report of weight loss, metabolic and quality of life outcomes.

Abstract Background and Materials and Methods The outcome of patients completing 12 months of follow-up in a prospective longitudinal trial of the safety/efficacy of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) for morbidly obese adolescents aged 14 to 17 years using a Food and Drug Administration Institutional Device Exemption for the use of the LAPBAND was analyzed. Baseline and outcome data were abstracted from a prospective database. Results Baseline (mean ± SD) body mass index was 50 ± 10 kg/m 2 , and excess weight was 178 ± 53 lb in 20 patients. Comorbidities included hypertension (45%), dyslipidemia (80%), insulin resistance (90%), metabolic syndrome (95%), and biopsy-proven nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (88%). At mean (SD) follow-up of 26 (9) months, % excess weight loss was 34% ± 22% (n = 20) and 41% ± 27% (n = 12), and the metabolic syndrome was resolved in 63% and 82% of the patients at 12 and 18 months, respectively. Hypertension normalized in all patients, along with improvement in lipid abnormalities and quality of life scores ( P Conclusion At intermediate follow-up of a LAGB-based obesity treatment program, weight loss led to resolution or improvement of major obesity-related comorbidities in most patients, supporting the efficacy of LAGB as a surgical adjunct to a comprehensive obesity treatment program and its long-term evaluation.
Do Antidepressants Have Any Meaningful Potential for Abuse

A small number of cases in the literature over the past 30 years suggest the possibility of abuse of antidepressant medications. However, this number is minuscule compared with the vast population of individuals who have received antidepressant treatment. Consequently, any possible benefit of routinely warning patients of the possibility that antidepressants might be abusable substances would be more than offset by the negative effect of this warning. It is likely that such a warning would influence patients — who need the short term or maintenance effects of antidepressant medication — to become noncompliant with a therapy that would otherwise be beneficial.
Controlling unstable steady states using system parameter variation and control duration

We describe a method to control unstable steady states in high-dimensional flows that have become unstable due to a Hopf bifurcation. The control method is model independent and is accomplished by perturbing an available system parameter. Unlike methods designed for low-dimensional systems, successful control of high-dimensional systems requires the use of the control duration as an additional parameter. This is due to control activated transients that force the system off a low-dimensional attractor. We demonstrate our method using numerical simulation and compare it with the application of pure discrete control.
Random Block-Coordinate Gradient Projection Algorithms

In this paper, we study gradient projection algorithms based on random partial updates of decision variables. These algorithms generalize random coordinate descent methods. We analyze these algorithms with and without assuming strong convexity of the objective functions. We also present an accelerated version of the algorithm based on Nesterov's two-step gradient method [1]. In each case, we prove convergence and provide a bound on the rate of convergence. We see that the randomized algorithms exhibit similar rates of convergence as their full gradient based deterministic counterparts.
Effect of large uniaxial stress on the superconducting transition temperature of zinc and cadmium

''Whiskers'' of Zn and Cd can support large elastic stress (approx. 8 kbar). We have measured the change in the superconducting transition temperature T/sub c/ with stress sigma in these whiskers. In Cd we find (per. dataT/sub c//per. datasigma)/sub sigma = 0/ to be 3.7 x 10/sup -10/ K m/sup 2//N for stress parallel to the hexagonal axis, and -0.46 x 10/sup -10/ K m/sup 2//N for stress perpendicular to the hexagonal axis. For Zn, (per. dataT/sub c//per. datasigma/sub parallel/)/sub sigma = 0/ was measured to be 5.1 x 10/sup -10/ K m/sup 2//N and (per. deltaT/sub c//partialsigma/sub perpendicular/)/sub sigma /sub 0// was -1.0 x 10/sup -10/ K m/sup 2//N. An anomalous relation between T/sub c/ and sigma was found in Cd and is attributed to changes in Fermi-surface topology at high stress. As in other materials the large anisotropy in per. deltaT/sub c//partialsigma in Cd and Zn can be explained by anisotropies in the stress dependence of the lattice and electronic properties. (AIP)
Effects of Metallic Vapor Deposition Process and the Overall Coating Thickness on Thermal Contact Conductance

An investigation was conducted to determine the effects of the vapor deposition process and the interstitial coating thickness on the overall joint conductance of metallic interfaces. Eight aluminum 6061-T6 test specimens were coated with indium and tested while in contact with uncoated aluminum 6061-T6 specimens. In the first test set, all specimens were coated to a thickness of 3.51 μm, but the vapor deposition process was varied to produce both single and multiple-layered coated specimens. In the second test set, the coating thickness was varied from 0.026 μm to 3.51 μm. The results indicated that when creating multiple layered coatings, oxidation and thermal cycling caused poor layer adhesion, and resulted in significantly reduced dimensionless contact conductance enhancement factors than for single-layered coatings with an equivalent thickness. Additionally, the results demonstrated that the thermal contact conductance could be enhanced to much greater levels than previously reported in the literature, and that the dimensionless enhancement factor asymptotically approached a maximum enhancement value. A theoretical maximum enhancement limit has been presented for comparison with the experimental data.
Smoke exposure among women in Haiti: The case for improved stoves

Indoor smoke exposure is responsible for two million deaths per year and has been studied globally, but the impacts of exposure have not yet been evaluated in Haiti, the Western hemisphere's poorest nation. This study measures the disproportionate impact of indoor smoke exposure on the women and children of Haiti. We studied 2296 clinic patients in four Haitian villages to determine the extent of carbon monoxide (CO) exposure, using carboxyhemoglobin saturation in the blood as a proxy for overall smoke exposure. We predicted CO levels to be higher in women, who traditionally perform the majority of cooking duties, and in children who accompany their mothers. CO levels averaged 4.9% in women and 3.4% in men. Women of child-bearing age carried a minimum relative risk (RR) for CO exposure of 1.22, relative to all males and younger females. Older females carried no significant difference in risk. Children averaged the lowest CO exposure among all cohorts. These findings demonstrate the burden of indoor smoke ...
The Great Recession and the Social Safety Net

The social safety net responded in significant and favorable ways during the Great Recession. Aggregate per capita expenditures grew significantly, with particularly strong growth in the SNAP, EITC, UI, and Medicaid programs. Distributionally, the increase in transfers was widely shared across demographic groups, including families with and without children, single-parent and two-parent families. Transfers grew as well among families with more employed members and with fewer employed members. However, the increase in transfer amounts was not strongly progressive across income classes within the low-income population, increasingly slightly more for those just below the poverty line and those just above it, compared to those at the bottom of the income distribution. This is mainly the result of the EITC program, which provides greater benefits to those with higher family earnings. The expansions of SNAP and UI benefitted those at the bottom of the income distribution to a greater extent.
CMOS digital imager design from a system-on-a-chip perspective

Due to substantial mixed analog-digital circuit integration in one chip, CMOS digital imager cannot be considered only as a photoelectric transducer. In this paper, we have identified timing and circuit layout considerations that are critical for implementing a digital CMOS camera-on-a-chip. An optimized binary-scaled tree-topology power routing has been shown to be critical for minimizing chip area and providing low spatial pattern noise. Imaging artifacts due to timing asymmetry have been quantified, and methods for elimination of the artifacts have been demonstrated. The impact of on-chip bias-generation and drive circuits on the on-chip ADC performance has been shown. New timing and circuit layout techniques have been presented for enabling random noise limited performance of a CMOS imager.
Could a Global Marshall Plan be Successful? An Investigation Using The WEEP Simulation Model

Abstract Using the WEEP simulation model (“World Economic Equalization Program”), this research examines the potential impact of a very large-scale foreign development assistance program (a “global Marshall Plan”) on the future development of the world economy. The benchmark simulations of the model indicate a dramatic reduction in world economic inequality, at the cost of a very minor retardation in the economic growth of the rich countries. Sensitivity analysis demonstrates that with certain key exceptions, these optimistic results are reasonably robust against parametric variation.
Determination of the True Phase Velocity of Arterial Pressure Waves in Vivo

Results of simultaneously recorded pressure, diameter, flow, and differential pressure from an arterial segment were studied by Fourier analysis. The method was applied to pressure propagation in the femoral artery of anesthetized dogs. Experimental values of phase velocity compared favorably with values predicted from a theoretical wave propagation model. The phase velocity was generally constant for frequencies over 35 rad/sec. At frequencies below 20 rad/sec, it decreased rapidly with decreasing frequency. The frequency variations of the true and apparent phase velocities were significantly different. The characteristic impedance of the femoral artery was a weak function of frequency arid nearly independent of the mean arterial pressure. High frequency values of the local fluid impedance above 50 rad/sec were significantly lower than those of the characteristic impedance. It was concluded that the method can be used to obtain reliable values of phase velocity in the physiological frequency range from in vivo measurements.
Ethnic diversity and economic growth in China

We investigate the effects of ethnic diversity on economic growth in the People’s Republic of China. Based on provincial data from 1982 to 2007, we find a negative relationship between ethnic diversity and economic growth across Chinese provinces supporting existing cross‐country studies such as Alesina et al. (2003). According to our estimations, going from complete ethnic homogeneity to complete ethnic heterogeneity reduces the growth rate between 2 percentage points and 2.5 percentage points in China, depending on the ethnic diversity index used.
Customer Discrimination in Restaurants: Dining Frequency Matters

Using unique survey data collected outside of five Virginia restaurants, and controlling for subjective server productivity, as well as a variety of other factors, we compare the tip earnings of male and female servers. Evidence of customer discrimination is found, but only among those customers who frequent the restaurant the least, revealing that female servers earn comparable tips to male servers when the service quality they produce is about exceptional, but for any lower service quality their tips are smaller. This suggests that female servers are being held to a very high standard, and if this standard is not met, they are treated unfavorably in comparison to male servers who produce the same level of service quality. Additional evidence indicates that it is male customers driving these results.
New constraints on using paleosols to reconstruct atmospheric pCO2

Ecosystem and climatic changes due to anthro po genic emissions of CO 2 are of increasing importance to society. One way to predict these changes in the future is to study warming events in the geologic past. The main control of Earth’s temperature over geologic time is the concentration of atmospheric CO 2 ; however, the precise relationship between CO 2 and temperature is not fully understood. Therefore, it is essential to be able to quantify atmospheric CO 2 concentrations in the geologic past, especially at times of rapid climate change analogous to current atmospheric changes. One widely applied proxy relates the carbon isotopic composition of pedogenic carbonates to atmospheric pCO 2 , but one of the key variables (soil-respired CO 2 ; S[z]) is not well constrained. This study presents a new proxy where soil-respired CO 2 is related to mean annual precipitation (MAP) by the following equation: S(z) = 5.67(MAP) – 269.9, R 2 = 0.59, SE = 681 ppm. This proxy, validated for modern atmospheric pCO 2 levels, constrains the primary source of uncertainty in the soil carbonate paleobarometer. We apply this proxy to make atmospheric pCO 2 reconstructions for examples from the Cenozoic, Mesozoic, and Paleozoic and calculate CO 2 estimates that are in better agreement with estimates from other independent proxies and model results than previous pedogenic carbonate reconstructions. The implications of the uncertainties attributed to pedogenic carbonate paleobarometry as well as guidelines for using this method are discussed. By making individual measurements rather than assumptions for each isotopic value and combining those analyses with an S(z) estimate for each paleosol considered using our new proxy described herein, we can obtain increased precision for atmospheric pCO 2 reconstructions.
OPTIMAL CONTROL STRATEGY FOR SPIN RECOVERY

This paper presents the approach for an automatic control strategy for spin avoidance and/or recovery. The recovery is based on an optimal control algorithm developed specifically for this task. A new model for the aircraft aerodynamics is used to calculate the statedependent aerodynamic forces and moments. Controldependent forces and moments to avoid spin entry and to recover from a fully developed spin state are computed using an optimal control algorithm. For practical application of this algorithm, control surface deflections are computed using the same aircraft model. The algorithm is shown to successfully recover a light aircraft from partially and fully developed spins in a simulation, in much the same manner an experienced test pilot does.
When to Begin? Regulatory Focus and Initiating Goal Pursuit

The authors propose that a prevention focus fosters preferences to initiate action earlier than does a promotion focus. Data from four studies either measuring or manipulating regulatory focus support this proposal. Participants in a prevention focus preferred initiating academic (Studies 1 and 2) and nonacademic (Study 3) actions sooner than did participants in a promotion focus. Participants working through a set of anagrams solved those that were prevention framed before those that were promotion framed (Study 4). Moreover, regulatory focus and perceived task valence each accounted for unique variance in participants’ task-initiation preferences (Study 3). The findings’ implications are discussed for task choice, susceptibility to distraction, and other aspects of self-regulation.
The Protein Data Bank: a historical perspective

The Protein Data Bank began as a grassroots effort in 1971. It has grown from a small archive containing a dozen structures to a major international resource for structural biology containing more than 40000 entries. The interplay of science, technology and attitudes about data sharing have all played a role in the growth of this resource.
A comparison of intrauterine versus intracervical insemination in fertile single women.

Abstract Objective: To compare the efficacy of intrauterine insemination (IUI) and intracervical insemination (ICI) when used by fertile single women in a donor insemination program. Design: Prospective randomized crossover study. Setting: Donor insemination program (not an infertility clinic). Patient(s): Single fertile women choosing to inseminate with frozen donor semen. Intervention(s): Clients received procreative counseling and screening and were then randomly assigned to begin office insemination with ICI or IUI. If additional insemination cycles were required, the clients used the method opposite their previous method of insemination until pregnancy was achieved. Main Outcome Measure(s): Monthly fecundity rate was compared between the two methods of insemination. Result(s): Sixty-two women contributed a total of 189 cycles, 94 by IUI and 95 by ICI. The monthly fecundity rate for IUI was 15%, as compared with 9% for ICI, ( P =0.14). When the analysis was confined to cycles in which only one insemination was performed (64 IUI and 65 ICI cycles), the monthly fecundity rates were 14% for IUI and 5% for ICI ( P =0.04). Conclusion(s): Intrauterine insemination with frozen donor sperm is more effective than intracervical insemination for single women without known fertility problems.
Facilitated Transport in Hydroxide-Exchange Membranes for Post-Combustion CO2 Separation

Hydroxide-exchange membranes are developed for facilitated transport CO2 in post-combustion flue-gas feed. First, a correlation between the basicity of fixed-site functional groups and CO2 -separation performance is discovered. This relationship is used to identify phosphonium as a promising candidate to achieve high CO2 -separation performance. Consequently, quaternary phosphonium-based hydroxide-exchange membranes are demonstrated to have a separation performance that is above the Robeson upper bound. Specifically, a CO2 permeability as high as 1090 Barrer and a CO2 /N2 selectivity as high as 275 is achieved. The high performance observed in the membranes can be attributed to the quaternary phosphonium moiety.
The deficiency of PIP2 5-phosphatase in Lowe syndrome affects actin polymerization

Lowe syndrome is a rare X-linked disorder characterized by bilateral congenital cataracts, renal Fanconi syndrome, and mental retardation. Lowe syndrome results from mutations in the OCRL1 gene, which encodes a phosphatidylinositol 4,5 bisphosphate 5-phosphatase located in the trans-Golgi network. As a first step in identifying the link between ocrl1 deficiency and the clinical disorder, we have identified a reproducible cellular abnormality of the actin cytoskeleton in fibroblasts from patients with Lowe syndrome. The cellular abnormality is characterized by a decrease in long actin stress fibers, enhanced sensitivity to actin depolymerizing agents, and an increase in punctate F-actin staining in a distinctly anomalous distribution in the center of the cell. We also demonstrate an abnormal distribution of two actin-binding proteins, gelsolin and α-actinin, proteins regulated by both PIP2 and Ca+2 that would be expected to be altered in Lowe cells. Actin polymerization plays a key role in the formation, maintenance, and proper function of tight junctions and adherens junctions, which have been demonstrated to be critical in renal proximal tubule function, and in the differentiation of the lens. These findings point to a general mechanism to explain how this PIP2 5-phosphatase deficiency might produce the Lowe syndrome phenotype.
Differential inhibition in vivo of ammonia monooxygenase, soluble methane monooxygenase and membrane‐associated methane monooxygenase by phenylacetylene

Phenylacetylene was investigated as a differential inhibitor of ammonia monooxygenase (AMO), soluble methane monooxygenase (sMMO) and membrane-associated or particulate methane monooxygenase (pMMO) in vivo. At phenylacetylene concentrations > 1 microM, whole-cell AMO activity in Nitrosomonas europaea was completely inhibited. Phenylacetylene concentrations above 100 microM inhibited more than 90% of sMMO activity in Methylococcus capsulatus Bath and Methylosinus trichosporium OB3b. In contrast, activity of pMMO in M. trichosporium OB3b, M. capsulatus Bath, Methylomicrobium album BG8, Methylobacter marinus A45 and Methylomonas strain MN was still measurable at phenylacetylene concentrations up to 1,000 microM. AMO of Nitrosococcus oceanus has more sequence similarity to pMMO than to AMO of N. europaea. Correspondingly, AMO in N. oceanus was also measurable in the presence of 1,000 microM phenylacetylene. Measurement of oxygen uptake indicated that phenylacetylene acted as a specific and mechanistic-based inhibitor of whole-cell sMMO activity; inactivation of sMMO was irreversible, time dependent, first order and required catalytic turnover. Corresponding measurement of oxygen uptake in whole cells of methanotrophs expressing pMMO showed that pMMO activity was inhibited by phenylacetylene, but only if methane was already being oxidized, and then only at much higher concentrations of phenylacetylene and at lower rates compared with sMMO. As phenylacetylene has a high solubility and low volatility, it may prove to be useful for monitoring methanotrophic and nitrifying activity as well as identifying the form of MMO predominantly expressed in situ.
An integrated approach for automating validation of extracted ion chromatographic peaks

Summary: Accurate determination of extracted ion chromatographic peak areas in isotope-labeled quantitative proteomics is difficult to automate. Manual validation of identified peaks is typically required. We have integrated a peak confidence scoring algorithm into existing tools which are compatible with analysis pipelines based on the standards from the Institute for Systems Biology. This algorithm automatically excludes incorrectly identified peaks, improving the accuracy of the final protein expression ratio calculation. Contact: [email protected] Source and Supplementary Information: http://www.chem.uky.edu/research/lynn/Nelson.pdf
Classroom of the Sea: problem-based learning for the deaf

The Classroom of the Sea (COS) Project is an interactive problem-based learning environment embedded in marine science for deaf high school students to assist them in understanding and communicating scientific concepts. COS mixes a real and virtual environment for the students and teachers aboard a research vessel as they gather marine science data to address a problem. The students note the locations of their samples and record them on the ship's LAN. Once the students return to their classrooms, students, faculty and researchers work to place the data they have collected on to web sites enabling students to experiment with real data, generate hypotheses, test these hypotheses and write up their results. Knowledge, attitudes and behaviors (KABs) and self-efficacy measures related to science literacy and procedures of the students are collected to measure changes.
Prospect Theory-based Real Options Analysis for Noncommercial Assets

When an engineering system has the ability to change or adapt based on a future choice, then flexibility can become an important component of that system’s total value. However, evaluating noncommercial flexible systems, like those in the defense sector, presents many challenges because of their dynamic nature. Designers intuitively understand the importance of flexibility to hedge against uncertainties. In the naval domain, however, they often do not have the tools needed for analysis. Thus, decisions often rely on engineering experience. As the dynamic nature of missions and new technological opportunities push the limits of current experience, a more rigorous approach is needed. This paper describes a novel framework for evaluating flexibility in noncommercial engineering systems called prospect theory-based real options analysis (PB-ROA). While this research is motivated by the unique needs of the U.S. Navy ship design community, the framework abstracts the principles of real options analysis to suit noncommercial assets that do not generate cash flows. One contribution of PB-ROA is a systematic method for adjusting agent decisions according to their risk tolerances. The paper demonstrates how the potential for loss can dramatically affect decision making through a simplified case study of a multimission variant of a theoretical high-speed connector vessel.
Incorporating psychological influences in probabilistic cost analysis

Today's typical probabilistic cost analysis assumes an “ideal” project that is devoid of the human and organizational considerations that heavily influence the success and cost of real-world projects. In the real world “Money Allocated Is Money Spent” (MAIMS principle); cost underruns are rarely available to protect against cost overruns while task overruns are passed on to the total project cost. Realistic cost estimates therefore require a modified probabilistic cost analysis that simultaneously models the cost management strategy including budget allocation. Psychological influences such as overconfidence in assessing uncertainties, dependencies among cost elements, and risk are other important considerations that are generally not addressed. It should then be no surprise that actual project costs often exceed the initial estimates and are delivered late and/or with a reduced scope. This paper presents a practical probabilistic cost analysis model that incorporates recent findings in human behavior and judgment under uncertainty, dependencies among cost elements, the MAIMS principle, and project management practices. Uncertain cost elements are elicited from experts using the direct fractile assessment method and fitted with three-parameter Weibull distributions. The full correlation matrix is specified in terms of two parameters that characterize correlations among cost elements in the same and in different subsystems. The analysis is readily implemented using standard Monte Carlo simulation tools such as @Risk and Crystal Ball®. The analysis of a representative design and engineering project substantiates that today's typical probabilistic cost analysis is likely to severely underestimate project cost for probability of success values of importance to contractors and procuring activities. The proposed approach provides a framework for developing a viable cost management strategy for allocating baseline budgets and contingencies. Given the scope and magnitude of the cost-overrun problem, the benefits are likely to be significant. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Eng 7: 000–000, 2004
Do Artists Benefit from Online Music Sharing

Music is an information good, and more specifically, an experience good, whose true value is realized only after its consumption. At its fundamental form, artists create (or produce) the music that consumers pay to listen. Digital technologies and network based sharing/distribution mechanisms have created tremendous opportunities and challenges for producers and consumers of such goods. This paper models the economics of online music sharing and addresses the fundamental question: who benefits? The model incorporates economic and technological incentives to sample, and analyzes the effect of consumers' potential purchasing and pirating decisions. The analysis reveals several key insights. The revenue impact will be more closely related to the intrinsic value of the music to consumers, as these technologies enable users to discover the true value of music more easily. Contrary to conventional wisdom, lowering the cost to sample music will propel more consumers to purchase music online, as the total cost of evaluation and acquisition decreases. Attempts to prevent sampling will be counter productive in the long run. Reducing the cost to sample may encourage some consumers to pirate music; but it also enhances the legitimate customer base by decreasing the total cost of music acquisition. This, along with increasing enforcement aimed at individual consumers and effective pricing schemes, will enable artists to effectively leverage the emerging technologies. The model also sheds light on the conflicting opinions by the artist community on the impact of sharing technologies. We find that sharing technologies erode the superstar phenomenon widely prevalent in the music business. Extensive empirical investigations, based on surveys and Billboard Ranking Charts, lend support to the economic model and validate the key results. Implications from this study are generally applicable to buyers and sellers of other similar digital experience goods.
Molecular characterization of V-type H(+)-ATPase (B-subunit) in gills of euryhaline crabs and its physiological role in osmoregulatory ion uptake.

The vacuolar-type H(+)-ATPase (V-ATPase) has been implicated in osmoregulatory ion uptake across external epithelia of a growing variety of species adapted to life in fresh water. In the present study, we investigated whether the V-ATPase may also function in a euryhaline species that tolerates brackish water (8 salinity) but not fresh water, the shore crab Carcinus maenas. cDNA coding for the regulatory B-subunit of the V-ATPase was amplified and sequenced from C. maenas gills and partially sequenced from four other crab species. Two isoforms differing in the 3′-untranslated region were found in C. maenas. In this species, the abundance of B-subunit mRNA was greater in the respiratory anterior gills than the ion-transporting posterior gills and was not increased by acclimation to dilute salinity. Immunocytochemical analysis showed that the B-subunit protein is not targeted to the apical membrane but is distributed throughout the cytoplasmic compartment. Physiological studies of isolated perfused gills indicated that the V-ATPase inhibitor bafilomycin had no effect on transepithelial potential difference. Thus, in contrast to the freshwater-tolerant Chinese crab Eriocheir sinensis, in which the V-ATPase appears to play an important osmoregulatory role, the V-ATPase in C. maenas probably functions in acidification of intracellular organelles but not in transbranchial NaCl uptake.
Seven habits of highly effective writers

"The seven habits of highly effective people" (S. Covey, 1989) has become a classic precisely because Covey's principles are applicable to both personal and professional responsibilities-from building a stronger relationship with one's family to becoming a more effective leader within one's business organization. I have tried to suggest some ways that Covey's paradigm might help us rethink the way that we approach the writing process. This article is my interpretation of how we can apply Covey's seven habits to writing. The habits are: (1) be proactive; (2) begin with the end in mind; (3) put first things first; (4) think "win/win"; (5) seek first to understand, then to be understood; (6) synergize; and (7) sharpen the saw (i.e. self-renewal).
Pediatric Return to Sports After Spinal Surgery.

Context:Pediatric patients who undergo spinal surgery are frequently involved in sporting activities. Return to play is often an important postoperative concern for the patient and family.Evidence ...
Influence of Procedural Factors on the Reliability and Performance of the Timed Up-and-go Test in Older Adults

Summary Background "Timed up-and-go" (TUG) test is a clinical assessment commonly used to quantify functional mobility and fall risk in older adults. While the concept of the test is simple, procedural variations can significantly impact the reliability and the performance. The purpose of the study was to determine the influence of specific procedural factors on the test–retest reliability and TUG test performance in older adults. Methods Adults over the age of 60 years ( N = 83, mean age, 69.3 ± 6.9 years; range, 60–91 years) participated. The procedural factors examined included: (1) timing method (handheld stopwatch vs. load-based timing); (2) distances of test (3 m, 6 m, and 9 m); and (3) seat height (standard vs. individual specific). Test–retest reliability obtained from each combination of timing and distance was evaluated. The interaction of seat-height settings and the stature of the participant on TUG performance was investigated by comparing the TUG performance of short and tall participants in the two seat-height settings. Results Timing method and walking distance modestly influenced the TUG test reliability. The current standard procedure (stopwatch timing and 3-m distance) yielded the lowest but acceptable reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.887). Taller individuals exhibited significantly better TUG performance when individualized seat heights were used in comparison with the standard lower seat height. The influence of seat height was not as pronounced in shorter individuals. Conclusion Seat height is an important procedural factor affecting the performance of the TUG test, especially in older adults who are taller. Load-based timing may be used to improve the consistency of the TUG performance assessment.