cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Decidualization and implantation: embryo-uterine bioinformatics at work

The implantation of the blastocyst into a nurturing endometrium involves two overlapping steps: 1. The blastocyst-endometrial luminal epithelial attachment. 2. The decidualization of the endometrial stroma. An intriguing question is how does the blastocyst identify the uterine implantation site. Current research is focused on hypothetical soluble signaling molecules released by the blastocyst for conditioning a discrete uterine luminal epithelial domain for implantation. A still unresolved issue is the functional significance of receptor autophosphorylation following binding of uterine epithelial cell-derived heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor to the epidermal growth factor receptor on trophoectodermic cell surfaces. With recent results hinting at the role of signaling proteins associated with the bone morphogenetic protein, fibroblast growth factor, WNT and hedgehog families to enable embryo implantation, the dynamics of uterine-embryo interaction becomes linked to fundamental cellular pathways of growth, differentiation and apoptosis.
VIRUS spectrograph assembly and alignment procedures

We describe the mechanical assembly and optical alignment processes used to construct the Visual Integral-Field Replicable Unit Spectrograph (VIRUS) instrument. VIRUS is a set of 150+ optical spectrographs designed to support observations for the Hobby-Eberly Telescope Dark Energy Experiment (HETDEX). To meet the instrument's manufacturing constraints, a production line will be set up to build subassemblies in parallel. To aid in the instrument's assembly and alignment, specialized fixtures and adjustment apparatuses have been developed. We describe the design and operations of the various optics alignment apparatuses, as well as the mirrors' alignment and bonding fixtures.
Receptor‐mediated clearance of factor VIII: implications for pharmacokinetic studies in individuals with haemophilia

Summary The present review discusses the current concept of receptor-mediated clearance of coagulation factor VIII (FVIII) from the circulation in vivo, which is one of the mechanisms regulating FVIII level in plasma. Several lines of experimental evidence suggest that two receptors from the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor family, low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein (LRP) and LDL receptor (LDLR), cooperate in this process. Administration of receptor-associated protein, a classical antagonist of these receptors, leads to prolongation of FVIII half-life in mice. The elevation of FVIII level and prolongation of its mean residence time, recorded in genetically LRP-deficient mice, directly confirm the physiological role of LRP in mediating clearance of FVIII. Mice with combined LRP and LDLR deficiency show a further increase of FVIII levels and more impressive, approximately fivefold, prolongation of FVIII residence time in the circulation. Receptor-mediated clearance of FVIII is facilitated by heparan sulfate proteoglycans of extracellular matrix, which provide the initial binding of FVIII to the cell surface. We discuss the mapping of the major high-affinity LRP-binding sites to the regions 484–509 and 1811–1818 of A2 and A3 domains of FVIII respectively; LDLR-binding sites are yet to be identified. Mutagenesis of these sites may result in disruption/reduction of FVIII/receptor interaction and consequently lead to clinically significant prolongation of FVIII lifetime in the circulation. We demonstrate the feasibility of this approach by the results of Ala-scanning mutagenesis of the A2 LRP-binding site. Generation of a novel recombinant FVIII with prolonged lifetime would meet the demands, improve the efficacy and reduce the cost of FVIII replacement therapy of haemophilia A.
Hydrostratigraphic subdivisions and fault barriers of the Edwards aquifer, south-central Texas, U.S.A.

Abstract The karstic Edwards Limestone within the Balcones Fault Zone of south-central Texas forms a productive confined aquifer that consists predominately of dense carbonate rocks and contains several layers of highly permeable and porous honeycombed rocks that have been produced by the leaching of evaporitic, tidal flat or reefal deposits. Fractures have hydraulically interconnected these layers at some places. Faults, however, commonly place rocks of very high-permeability opposite rocks of very low permeability, thus creating a lateral discontinuity and a flow barrier. At places, fault barriers probably cause partial to almost complete blockage of groundwater flow normal to the fault.
Acrodermatitis enteropathica–like eruption and failure to thrive as presenting signs of cystic fibrosis

We describe a female infant with an acrodermatitis enteropathica-like eruption as the presenting sign of rapidly fatal cystic fibrosis. The patient had growth retardation, developed an erythematous eruption unresponsive to oral zinc, and finally a generalized erosive dermatitis with associated edema, anemia and hypoproteinemia.
Effects of low-dose dopamine on urine output in normotensive very low birth weight neonates

Effects of low-dose dopamine on urine output in normotensive very low birth weight neonates
Selective repression of rat prolactin gene by stable expression of dominant-negative Ets in GH4 pituitary cells.

Members of the Ets family of transcription factors are key regulators controlling prolactin (PRL) gene expression. Utilizing a transient transfection approach and the GH4 rat pituitary cell line, we have shown that Ets-1 acts synergistically with the pituitary-specific POU homeodomain transcription factor, Pit-1, to mediate basal and Ras-induced regulation of the proximal (−425) rat PRL (rPRL) promoter. Although the transient transfection approach has provided important information regarding rPRL proximal promoter regulation, the role of Ets factors in the regulation of the intact, endogenous PRL promoter has not been explored. To address this area of question, we created several clonal GH4 cell lines that stably express either dominant-negative Ets (dn-EtsZ) or dominant-active Ets (VP16 Ets) constructs and used these cell lines as a model system to analyze the role of Ets factors on endogenous PRL gene expression. Northern blot analysis of these cells showed that PRL mRNA levels were dramatically reduced, by an average of 80%, in the cell lines expressing dn-Ets compared to vector-only controls. Conversely, stable expression of the dominant-active VP16 Ets led to an average threefold increase in PRL mRNA. GH4 cells expressing dn-EtsZ displayed significantly lower levels of intracellular PRL protein content and greatly diminished secretion of PRL into the cell culture medium, compared to vector-only controls. Consistent with our previous observations, the mRNA levels for growth hormone were unaffected by either dn-EtsZ or VP16 Ets expression. Expression of dn-EtsZ reduced Pit-1 mRNA levels by about 30%; however, the intracellular levels of Pit-1 protein were unchanged. Taken together, these results verify and strengthen the view that Ets factors play a critical role in the regulation of endogenous PRL gene expression and PRL protein production.
Effects of Aging on the Neural Correlates of Successful Item and Source Memory Encoding

To investigate the neural basis of age-related source memory (SM) deficits, young and older adults were scanned with fMRI while encoding faces, scenes, and face-scene pairs. Successful encoding activity was identified by comparing encoding activity for subsequently remembered versus forgotten items or pairs. Age deficits in successful encoding activity in hippocampal and prefrontal regions were more pronounced for SM (pairs) as compared with item memory (faces and scenes). Age-related reductions were also found in regions specialized in processing faces (fusiform face area) and scenes (parahippocampal place area), but these reductions were similar for item and SM. Functional connectivity between the hippocampus and the rest of the brain was also affected by aging; whereas connections with posterior cortices were weaker in older adults, connections with anterior cortices, including prefrontal regions, were stronger in older adults. Taken together, the results provide a link between SM deficits in older adults and reduced recruitment of hippocampal and prefrontal regions during encoding. The functional connectivity findings are consistent with a posterior-anterior shift with aging previously reported in several cognitive domains and linked to functional compensation.
In-vivo NIR diffuse-reflectance tissue spectroscopy of human subjects

There are few published works (Marbach 1993,1995) in the field of tissue spectroscopy for glucose self-monitoring, in the wavelength range from 1.0 microns to 2.5 microns, and the error described is too large for clinical use or for home monitoring. Measurements (Arnold 1990, Marbach 1993) of aqueous solutions of glucose, with concentrations in the physiological range, have been promising, including measurements (McNulty 1998) in our laboratory.
Solutions to the one-dimensional inverse scattering problem with missing phase information

Abstract The conversion of intensity data to structural models is made difficult by the uniqueness problem when phase information is lacking. Several different structures can give the same scattering intensities. For the one-dimensional problem in which the scattered amplitude is given by a finite Fourier transform, specification of all possible structures can be made using the analytic properties of the intensity function, since it is uniquely determined by the values of its complex zeros. The concepts of zero encoding are reviewed to show how reflectivity data in the first Born approximation can be converted into all possible structural models that give the measured intensities.
Numerical investigations of transient heat transfer characteristics and vitrification tendencies in ultra-fast cell cooling processes.

Abstract During freezing, cells are often damaged directly or indirectly by ice formation. Vitrification is an alternative approach to cryopreservation that avoids ice formation. The common method to achieve vitrification is to use relatively high concentrations of cryoprotectant agents (CPA) in combination with a relatively slow cooling rate. However, high concentrations of CPAs have potentially damaging toxic and/or osmotic effects on cells. Therefore, establishing methods to achieve vitrification with lower concentrations of CPAs through ultra-fast cooling rates would be advantageous in these aspects. These ultra-fast cooling rates can be realized by a cooling system with an ultra-high heat transfer coefficient ( h ) between the sample and coolant. The oscillating motion heat pipe (OHP), a novel cooling device utilizing the pressure change to excite the oscillation motion of the liquid plugs and vapor bubbles, can significantly increase h and may fulfill this aim. The current investigation was designed to numerically study the effects of different values of h on the transient heat transfer characteristics and vitrification tendencies of the cell suspension during the cooling processes in an ultra-thin straw (100 μm in diameter). The transient temperature distribution, the cooling rate and the volume ratio ( x ) of the ice quantity to the maximum crystallizable ice of the suspension were calculated. From these numerical results, it is concluded that the ultra-high h (>10 4 W/m 2 K) obtained by OHPs could facilitate vitrification by efficiently decreasing x as well as the time to pass through the dangerous temperature region where the maximum ice formation happens. For comparison, OHPs can decrease both of the parameters to less than 20% of those from the widely used open pulled straw methods. Therefore, the OHP method will be a promising approach to improving vitrification tendencies of CPA solutions and could also decrease the required concentration of CPAs for vitrification, both of which are of great importance for the successful cryopreservation of cells by vitrification.
Manipulation of carrier concentration, crystallite size and density in polycrystalline anatase TiO2via amorphous-phase medium range atomic order

Thin-film semiconducting anatase TiO2 finds several applications, including photocatalysis, wherein control over carrier concentration and other material properties would be useful. The present work employs atomic layer deposition to fabricate thin amorphous films of TiO2, which are then annealed into polycrystalline anatase. Variations in the temperature and growth rate for deposition, as well as in the ramp rate and final temperature employed during the annealing, propagate into changes in one or more of the final carrier concentration, crystallite size and bulk density. Many of these surprising findings can be interpreted in terms of medium range atomic order existing in the initial amorphous films, and demonstrate that the order can be manipulated and exploited to some degree.
Teaching statistics online in a blended learning environment

Several Versions of a Web-based graduate-level course in statistics are described. In the final version, the experiential aspects of a face-to-face course in statistics are maintained through frequent interaction between the instructor and students using digital video lectures that depict real-time statistical computations. The use of text-based explanations, two-way interactive television technology, interactive whiteboard technology, and videos created from VHS recordings also are discussed within a recently described framework for evaluating the instructional effectiveness of new media.
Preprotachykinin gene expression in the mediobasal hypothalamus of estrogen-treated and ovariectomized control rats.

We have determined the localization of preprotachykinin (PPT) mRNA-containing neurons in the mediobasal hypothalamus of the rat. PPT mRNA-containing neurons are present in the ventromedial nucleus (with a concentration in the ventrolateral aspect (VL-VM)), the dorsomedial nucleus, the lateral hypothalamus and the arcuate nucleus. This distribution is consistent with the findings of immunocytochemical studies of substance P-immunoreactive neurons in the hypothalamus. We have also examined whether PPT gene expression is regulated by estrogen in the VL-VM by comparing the levels of PPT mRNA in the VL-VM of ovariectomized rats and ovariectomized, estrogen-replaced rats. Both in situ hybridization and slot blot hybridization analysis revealed no changes in PPT mRNA content in the VL-VM following estrogen treatment. These results suggest that estrogen does not regulate lordosis behavior by affecting PPT gene expression in VL-VM neurons.
Curricular resources from the acm two-year college education committee

This poster presentation highlights the curricular resources available from the Two-Year College Education Committee (TYCEC), a standing committee of the ACM Education Board. This Committee is charged with developing computing curricula for associate-degree granting institutions. To this end, the TYCEC has published curriculum guidelines in each of the computing sub-disciplines: Computer Science, Information Technology, Computer Engineering, Information Systems, and Software Engineering.
Beyond linear least squares regression

Abstract Regression is a collection of statistical methods that are used to study relationships among predictor and response variables. In addition to the most popular linear model, solved by least squares, several other techniques have found an application in analytical chemistry. Biased methods such as stepwise regression, ridge regression, principal components regression, and partial least squares regression are especially useful in cases of poorly or underdetermined systems with collinearity. When structural and/or distributional assumptions associated with linear least squares are violated, nonlinear regression, robust regression or generalized least squares estimators may offer potential remedies.
LOW-TOXICITY OUTPATIENT ADOPTIVE IMMUNOTHERAPY OF METASTATIC CANCER WITH AUTOLOGOUS LYMPHOCYTES GENERATED BY IN VITRO IMMUNIZATION (IVI)

LOW-TOXICITY OUTPATIENT ADOPTIVE IMMUNOTHERAPY OF METASTATIC CANCER WITH AUTOLOGOUS LYMPHOCYTES GENERATED BY IN VITRO IMMUNIZATION (IVI)
Evaluation of Eye Formation and Structural Quality of Swiss-Type Cheese by Magnetic Resonance Imaging

The quality and commercial value of Swiss-type cheeses depend mainly on the features of the eyes characterizing this type of cheese. The application of magnetic resonance imaging in the detection and evaluation of eye features during the ripening of Swiss-type cheese was evaluated. The presented images illustrate the potential of this high resolution, nondestructive technique as a powerful tool for the evaluation of the structural features of these cheeses. The results demonstrate the detection and the ability to follow eye formation and development in Swiss cheeses and to evaluate cheese quality in terms of various structural defects associated with the make procedures for these types of cheeses.
Coccidioidomycosis among persons with human immunodeficiency virus infection in the era of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART).

Coccidioidomycosis remains an important opportunistic infection among individuals infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) who live in the coccidioidal endemic area. There are several manifestations of coccidioidomycosis during HIV infection, but pulmonary disease, either diffuse or focal, is the most common. The most important factor associated with the risk for developing clinically active coccidioidomycosis is a CD4 peripheral blood lymphocyte count of less than 250/microL. The advent of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) for the treatment of HIV infection has changed our approach to the management of opportunistic infections, including coccidioidomycosis. Few data are available regarding the incidence of coccidioidomycosis since the initiation of HAART, but these suggest a decline. It is currently recommended that antifungal therapy for coccidioidomycosis during HIV infection be continued indefinitely, even among those with asymptomatic disease. Future studies should indicate whether this is necessary if immune function has been reconstituted through appropriate therapy for the HIV infection.
FAMILY GROUP CONFERENCING AND CHILD PROTECTION MEDIATION: ESSENTIAL TOOLS FOR PRIORITIZING FAMILY ENGAGEMENT IN CHILD WELFARE CASES

Family group conferencing (FGC) and child protection mediation maximize family engagement in child welfare cases by prioritizing families’ roles in discussions and decisions. This article examines how FGC helps professionals to focus on family and community strengths, encourages family engagement, and provides targeted case plans for families and timely, permanent placements for children. It explores how courts and agencies use these interventions to empower families to contribute to resolutions in ways that are not possible in traditional litigation processes. These complementary processes help children and families by providing forums where families are allowed to make informed choices and take an active role in creating plans for their future.
Thermal-difference reflectance spectroscopy of the high-temperature cuprate superconductors

The temperature-dependent thermal-difference reflectance (TDR) spectra of thin-film samples of ${\mathrm{Tl}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Ba}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Ca}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Cu}}_{3}$${\mathrm{O}}_{10}$, (BiPb${)}_{2}$${\mathrm{Sr}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Ca}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Cu}}_{3}$${\mathrm{O}}_{10}$, ${\mathrm{Tl}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Ba}}_{2}$${\mathrm{CaCu}}_{2}$${\mathrm{O}}_{8}$, and ${\mathrm{YBa}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Cu}}_{3}$${\mathrm{O}}_{7}$ have been measured for photon energies between 0.3 and 4.5 eV at temperatures above and below each material's superconducting critical temperature. The amplitude of the characteristic optical structure near the screened plasma frequency of each sample in the normal-state TDR spectrum varies approximately linearly with temperature, T, indicating that the temperature-dependent optical scattering rate in these materials scales with temperature as ${\mathit{T}}^{2}$. From the TDR spectra collected above and below the critical temperature of each sample, the superconducting to normal-state reflectance ratio, ${\mathit{R}}_{\mathit{S}}$/${\mathit{R}}_{\mathit{N}}$, has been obtained. In all of these spectra, there are significant deviations from unity in ${\mathit{R}}_{\mathit{S}}$/${\mathit{R}}_{\mathit{N}}$ at photon energies on the order of 2.0 eV. This optical structure cannot be accounted for using the conventional Mattis-Bardeen description of the optical properties of a superconductor or its strong-coupling extension where electron-pairing interactions are limited to energies less than 0.1 eV. However, both the temperature and energy dependence of the structure in the ${\mathit{R}}_{\mathit{S}}$/${\mathit{R}}_{\mathit{N}}$ spectra may be adequately described within Eliashberg theory with an electron-boson coupling function which consists of both a low-energy component (0.1 eV) and a high-energy component located between 1.6 and 2.1 eV. \textcopyright{} 1996 The American Physical Society.
The effects of tail autotomy on survivorship and body growth of Uta stansburiana under conditions of high mortality

We examined the effects of tail autotomy on survivorship and body growth of both adult and juvenile Uta stansburiana by directly manipulating tail condition. Tail loss decreased neither survivorship nor rate of body growth for individuals in two natural populations. Lack of an influence of tail loss on survivorship in these two populations may be the result of high mortality. Under high mortality any differential effects of tail loss will be lower than in populations facing lower mortality. Growth experiments in the laboratory demonstrated that, under conditions of minimal environmental variation and social interactions, there is no tradeoff between body growth and tail regeneration as has been suggested for other species of lizards. One possible reason for this difference is that U. stansburiana does not use the tail as a storage organ for lipids. The original and regenerated tails are composed mainly of protein. In general, any differential body growth between tailed and tailless individuals may be due to social interactions and not a diversion of limited energy into tail regeneration.
Design of a PZN-PT piezoelectric linear motor

The focus of this paper is to design a small incremental linear motor that could have the potential performance for light load applications. Due to its superior piezoelectric coefficients, PZN-PT (Pb(Zn 1/3 Nb 2/3 )O 3 -PbTiO) is considered as a fungible material to conventional PZT. For the design of a lightweight linear motor, PZN-PT piezoelectric actuator was utilized to drive the motor due to its fast response time and high piezoelectric coefficient. Furthermore, this paper presents the design and expected performances of a PZN-PT inchworm linear motor. We propose a new method of inchworm motion based on a novel electrode design using a single rectangular rod of PZN-PT single crystal piezoelectric material. The size of the monolithic PZN-PT linear motor can be very small (a length less than 5mm). The motor has a high-resolution positioning capability.
The edentulous patient. I. Xerostomia and the serum cholesterol level.

Sixty-seven edentulous patients with complete dentures were studied during 168 visits. Xerostomia was reported during only 38 of the 168 visits, and in most of these instances it was mild and intermittent; there were no severe cases, and only 5 patients reported that the condition was constant. The serum cholesterol level was definitely elevated (250 mg per 100 ml, or higher) during 42 per cent of the visits, and marginally elevated during another 45 per cent. Statistical analysis showed that the concentration of serum cholesterol was significantly higher in the patients with xerostomia.
Safety of drotrecogin alfa (activated) in surgical patients with severe sepsis.

Background: We conducted a retrospective evaluation of the overall safety of drotrecogin alfa (activated) in surgical patients with severe sepsis enrolled in PROWESS. Methods: A blinded Surgical Ev...
A method of design using available assets: Identifying a feasible system configuration

In the early stages of the product realization process, if the functional requirements of a system to be designed can be partitioned and represented, concepts can be quickly explored to meet these functions. If methods and tools for partitioning and representing functional requirements can be developed, it becomes possible to arrange functional components rapidly to represent specific concepts, allowing designers to explore different system configurations at a high level of abstraction. Likewise, if component or component assemblies performing certain functions are known to exist, a designer can determine the feasibility of realizing the product specific functions for each feasible system configuration using available parts. It is also possible that a product may often be realized through partial use of available assets while part of the system is designed and manufactured.
Improved Bayesian image estimation for digital chest radiography.

Purpose: Previously, we have shown that Spatially Varying Bayesian Image Estimation (SVBIE) can be used to reduce scatter and improve contrast-to-noise ratios(CNR) in digital chest radiographs with no degradation of image resolution. This previous algorithm used a model for scatter compensation that was derived for emission tomography. Here, we develop and evaluate a new iterative SVBIE technique that incorporates a scatter model derived for projection radiography.Materials and Methods: Portable digital radiographs of an anthropomorphic chest phantom were obtained along with quantitative scatter measurements using a calibrated photostimulable phosphor system. The new iterative SVBIE technique was applied to the phantom image to reduce scatter. Scatter fraction reduction, CNR improvement, and resolution degradation were evaluated. Results: Residual scatter fractions were reduced to less than 2% in the lungs and 30% in the mediastinum at 14 iterations. CNR was improved by approximately 50% in the lung region and 187% in the mediastinum. Resolution was not degraded. Conclusions: The new SVBIE technique can reduce scatter to levels far below those provided by an antiscatter grid and can increase CNR without loss of resolution. The new technique outperforms the previous Bayesian techniques.
Effect of Coal Characteristics and Molybdenum Sulfide Catalyst on Conversions and Yields of Heavy Products from Liquefaction in Phenanthrene

Eight coals, ranging in rank from subbituminous B to high-volatile A bituminous, were reacted in microautoclave reactors in a hydrogen atmosphere and with the nondonor solvent phenanthrene. Reactions were conducted at 360 °C for 1 h. Both noncatalytic and catalytic reactions were investigated. The catalytic reactions employed ammonium tetrathiomolybdate as a catalyst precursor. In noncatalytic reactions, conversions ranged from 18 to 47% and showed a dependence on the oxygen contents of the coals. Addition of a catalyst increases conversions to 54−83%. In catalytic reactions there is no apparent dependence of conversion on oxygen content, but rather the hydrogen content, the net hydrogen (the total hydrogen corrected for oxygen, sulfur, and nitrogen), and its distribution in the coal structure are important. Segregation of the coals into groups originally defined by Given shows two different effects of added catalyst: for medium- to low-rank medium-sulfur coals the available hydrogen in the coal and that...
The construction of crystalline lattice vectors in specified orientations for atomistic simulations

Abstract We present an algorithm for the construction of arbitrary crystals in arbitrary orientations. The method is general, requires only readily available lattice and basis vectors and Miller indices as input, and is particularly suitable for molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo simulations. This leads to a simple convention for the specification of surfaces for crystals having more than one atom per primitive cell. We address several specific requirements for efficiently performing atomistic simulations of crystals and surfaces with an imposed stress.
Flow measurements in a highly curved atherosclerotic coronary artery cast of man.

Flow visualization and wall pressure measurements were made in a polyurethane cast of a cadaver coronary artery with a significant “s” shaped reverse curvature. A sucrose solution was used to simulate the kinematic viscosity of blood, with flow rates in the physiologic range. Flow visualization demonstrated significant secondary flow patterns in the wall vicinity, which increased with increasing Reynolds number. Random dye dispersion was observed at a Reynolds number of about 400, but not at 200. Dye filament patterns in the transition between the first and second curved region were predominantly influenced by the second curved region at lower Reynolds numbers, and by the first curved region at higher Re. Local wall pressure measurements demonstrated a significant centrifugal effect with large radial pressure differences across the casting. Flow resistances for the casting were considerably greater than reference Poiseuille flow values, and increased further with pulsatile flow.
mRNA turnover rate limits siRNA and microRNA efficacy.

The microRNA pathway participates in basic cellular processes and its discovery has enabled the development of si/shRNAs as powerful investigational tools and potential therapeutics. Based on a simple kinetic model of the mRNA life cycle, we hypothesized that mRNAs with high turnover rates may be more resistant to RNAi-mediated silencing. The results of a simple reporter experiment strongly supported this hypothesis. We followed this with a genome-wide scale analysis of a rich corpus of experiments, including RT–qPCR validation data for thousands of siRNAs, siRNA/microRNA overexpression data and mRNA stability data. We find that short-lived transcripts are less affected by microRNA overexpression, suggesting that microRNA target prediction would be improved if mRNA turnover rates were considered. Similarly, short-lived transcripts are more difficult to silence using siRNAs, and our results may explain why certain transcripts are inherently recalcitrant to perturbation by small RNAs.
A multigrid method for the generalized symmetric eigenvalue problem: Part I—algorithm and implementation

A multigrid method is described that can solve the generalized eigenvalue problem encountered in structural dynamics. The algorithm combines relaxation on a fine mesh with the solution of a singular equation on a coarse mesh. A sequence of coarser meshes may be used to quickly solve this singular equation using another multigrid method. The hierarchy of increasingly finer meshes can be further exploited using a nested iteration scheme, whereby initial approximations to the fine mesh eigenvectors are computed using interpolated coarse mesh eigenvectors. The solution of some simple plate problems on a Convex C240 demonstrates the efficiency of a vectorized version of the multigrid algorithm.
PD-L1 Limits the Mucosal CD8+ T Cell Response to Chlamydia trachomatis

Chlamydia trachomatis infection is the most common bacterial sexually transmitted disease in the United States. Repeated infections with C. trachomatis lead to serious sequelae, such as infertility. It is unclear why the adaptive immune system, specifically the CD8+ T cell response, is unable to protect against subsequent C. trachomatis infections. In this article, we characterize the mucosal CD8+ T cell response to C. trachomatis in the murine genital tract. We demonstrate that the immunoinhibitory ligand, PD-L1, contributes to the defective CD8+ T cell response. Deletion or inhibition of PD-L1 restores the CD8+ T cell response and enhances C. trachomatis clearance.
On-screen laser spot detection for large display interaction

Laser pointer based interfaces present an interesting alternative for interaction with large displays such as those provided by video projection systems. In order to operate correctly, such systems need to quickly and reliably detect the on-screen laser spot generated by the pointer. This paper describes a fast algorithm for real-time laser spot tracking and presents some performance results.
Men: the missing client in family planning.

Family planning services have typically been directed at the female client. In addition, most family planning services and programs are female client-centered, with female-specific health care services such as family planning counseling, female sexual/reproductive medical care, genetic counseling, pregnancy tests, contraception administration, and prenatal care rendered primarily to the female client. The presence of men in most family planning clinics is negligible. Men are key persons in the reproductive decision-making process. In some cultures, the male significantly influences the choice of birth control methods, birth number, birth sequencing, and timing, along with an opinion regarding the birthing method. Comprehensive family planning services should include men and women as equal partners and clients in the family planning process and delivery of family planning services. This would require the development and funding of family planning services directed at male clients. A basis to assist with the development of these types of services is Title X Family Planning programs and funding streams. The integration of men into family planning services should include male sexual/reproductive health services, development of male-focused reproductive life plans, discussion of intimate partner violence, basic primary care services to include immunizations, sexually transmitted disease testing and treatment, along with primary care services to promote healthy lifestyle choices. In addition, family planning services that include men should either integrate men into the existing family planning services and have a true "family--male and female client together" planning program or develop male-centered family planning services. In addition to the aforementioned male services, male-centered family planning services should include demonstration of condom usage; sexually transmitted infection counseling; pregnancy prevention; pregnancy timing methods and female and male birth control options; preconception health counseling; genetic counseling; testicular health and self-examination; infertility counseling and management; discussion of alcohol, tobacco, and other substance use from an overall health and reproductive health perspective; and depression screening. A secondary benefit of male-centered family planning services or the integration of men into existing family planning services is that this may serve as an entry point into the health care system and lead men to a further referral processes to secure primary health care prevention and treatment services. Men are the critical missing client in most family planning services. It is our obligation to provide male-centered family planning services either through an integrated model or male-focused model of health care delivery. Language: en
Integrating biological information into the statistical analysis and design of microarray experiments.

Abstract Microarray technology is a powerful tool for animal functional genomics studies, with applications spanning from gene identification and mapping, to function and control of gene expression. Microarray assays, however, are complex and costly, and hence generally performed with relatively small number of animals. Nevertheless, they generate data sets of unprecedented complexity and dimensionality. Therefore, such trials require careful planning and experimental design, in addition to tailored statistical and computational tools for their appropriate data mining. In this review, we discuss experimental design and data analysis strategies, which incorporate prior genomic and biological knowledge, such as genotypes and gene function and pathway membership. We focus the discussion on the design of genetical genomics studies, and on significance testing for detection of differential expression. It is shown that the use of prior biological information can improve the efficiency of microarray experiments.
Participation of ATP7A in macrophage mediated oxidation of LDL

ATP7A primarily functions to egress copper from cells, thereby supplying this cofactor to secreted copper-accepting enzymes. This ATPase has attracted significant attention since the discovery of its mutation leading to human Menkes disease and the demonstration of its distribution in various tissues. Recently, we reported that ATP7A is expressed in the human vasculature. In the present study, we investigated the cellular expression of ATP7A in atherosclerotic lesions of LDL receptor −/− mice. Subsequently, we examined the role of ATP7A in regulating the oxidation of LDL in a macrophage cell model. We observed that ATP7A is expressed in atherosclerotic murine aorta and colocalizes with macrophages. To investigate the function of ATP7A, we downregulated ATP7A expression in THP-1 derived macrophages using small interfering RNA (siRNA). ATP7A downregulation attenuated cell-mediated oxidation of LDL. Moreover, downregulation of ATP7A resulted in decreased expression and enzymatic activity of cytosolic phospholipase A2 α (cPLA2α), a key intracellular enzyme involved in cell-mediated LDL oxidation. In addition, cPLA2α promoter activity was decreased after downregulation of ATP7A, suggesting that ATP7A transcriptionally regulates cPLA2α expression. Finally, cPLA2α overexpression increased LDL oxidation, which was blocked by coadministration of ATP7A siRNA oligonucleotides. These findings suggest a novel mechanism linking ATP7A to cPLA2α and LDL oxidation, suggesting that this copper transporter could play a previously unrecognized role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.
A manufacturing process planner for a concurrent engineering environment

Most manufacturing evaluations of mechanical designs do not consider the available materials from which the design will be fabricated or the currently available processes, tools, and fixtures on the shop floor. We present a framework in which both shop floor resources, materials, and the design specification are all considered together in order to produce a manufacturability analysis. Our framework utilizes a process planner, P/sup 3/, which generates low cost, high quality manufacturing plans. We use this planner to provide manufacturability feedback to the designer, aiding him or her in producing better designs.
CHARACTERIZATION OF NEOSPORA CANINUM PROTEASE, NcSUB1 (NC-p65), WITH RABBIT ANTI-N54

NcSUB1 (formerly known as NC-p65) is the first molecularly described proteolytic enzyme of the intracellular protozoan parasite Neospora caninum. This report describes the characterization of a rabbit anti-N54, which is an antiserum generated against an internal fragment of NcSUB1 (amino acids 649–783). In immunofluorescence studies rabbit anti-N54 labeled the apical end of the fixed parasite. By immuno-gold electron microscopy, the antibody bound primarily to the microneme organelles of the parasite. Analysis of secreted parasitic proteins indicated that a protein of molecular weight 65 kDa (reduced) or 55 kDa (nonreduced) was recognized by the antibody. The same secreted proteins were affinity purified with rabbit anti-N54–coupled resins and were shown to contain major proteolytic activity by zymography. Thus, rabbit anti-N54 is the first antibody developed for N. caninum that binds to the microneme proteins and recognizes a major secreted enzyme.
Characterization of a dopamine-sensitive adenylate cyclase in the rat caudate nucleus.

— An adenylate cyclase present in the caudate nucleus of rat brain, which is selectively stimulated by low concentrations of dopamine, and which is believed to mediate dopaminergic synaptic transmission, has been characterized with respect to several properties. The parameters studied included temperature, pH, ATP concentration, Mg/ATP ratio, and metal ion specificity. The effects of other compounds, including EGTA, NaF and several guanosine nucleotides, were also tested on the dopa-mine-sensitive adenylate cyclase. In addition, the subcellular distribution of the enzyme was studied. The highest specific activity was found in subcellular fractions enriched in nerve endings. A half-maximal increase in the activity of the enzyme in a subcellular fraction occurred in the presence of 4 × 10−6 M dopamine. Fluphenazine, a dopamine antagonist, competitively inhibited the activity of the enzyme in this fraction, with a calculated inhibition constant (Ki) of 8 × 10−9M.
Subtype-Specific Intracellular Trafficking of α2-Adrenergic Receptors

The three alpha2-adrenergic receptor subtypes (alpha2a, alpha2b, and alpha2c) are highly homologous G protein-coupled receptors. These receptors all couple to pertussis toxin-sensitive G proteins and have relatively similar pharmacological properties. To further explore functional differences between these receptors, we used immunocytochemical techniques to compare the ability of the three alpha2-receptor subtypes to undergo agonist-mediated internalization. The alpha2a-receptor does not internalize after agonist treatment. In contrast, we observed that the alpha2b-receptor is able to undergo agonist-induced internalization and seems to follow the same endosomal pathway used by the beta2-adrenergic receptor. Attempts to examine internalization of the alpha2c-receptor were complicated by the fact that the majority of the alpha2c receptor resides in the endoplasmic reticulum and cis/media Golgi and there is relatively little cell surface localization. Nevertheless, we were able to detect some internalization of the alpha2c-receptor after prolonged agonist treatment. However, we observed no significant movement of alpha2c-receptor from the intracellular pool to the plasma membrane during a 4-hr treatment of cells with cycloheximide, suggesting that these cells are unable to process alpha2c-receptors in the same way they process the alpha2a or alpha2b subtypes.
Structuring the Future: Anticipated Life Events, Peer Networks, and Adolescent Sexual Behavior.

While prior research has established associations between individual expectations of future events and risk behavior among adolescents, the potential effects of peers’ future perceptions on risk-taking have been overlooked. We extend prior research by testing whether peers’ anticipation of college completion is associated with adolescent sexual risk-taking. We also examine whether adolescents’ perceptions of the negative consequences of pregnancy and idealized romantic relationship scripts mediate the association between peers’ anticipation of college completion and sexual risk-taking. Results from multivariate regression models with data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health) indicate peers’ anticipation of college completion is negatively associated with a composite measure of sexual risk-taking and positively associated with the odds of abstaining from sexual intercourse and only engaging in intercourse with a romantic partner (compared to having intercourse with a non-romantic partner). In addition, perceptions of the negative consequences of pregnancy and sexualized relationship scripts appear to mediate a large portion of the association between peers’ anticipation of future success and sexual risk-taking and the likelihood of abstaining (but not engaging in romantic-only intercourse). Results from our study underscore the importance of peers in shaping adolescent sexual behavior.
Exploratory study on circuit and architecture design of very high density diode-switch phase change memories

This paper concerns the circuit and architecture design of diode-switch phase change memories at highly scaled technology nodes. Due to its great scalability potential, phase change memory technology has recently attracted tremendous interest, and from storage density perspective the diode-switch phase change memory cell structure is highly desirable. Design of very high density diode-switch phase change memory faces at least two challenges at circuit and architecture levels, including (i) silicon area overhead of memory peripheral circuits must be minimized in order to push the effective storage density envelope, and (ii) conventional defect tolerance strategy using redundant row/column repair may no longer be applicable and new defect tolerance approach should be used. This paper presents possible solutions to address the above two issues. Very simple and cost-effective peripheral circuits including row/column decoders and sensing approach are developed, and a theoretical analysis of the impact of non-negligible reverse-bias diode leakage is also presented. Moreover, this paper presents a simple defect tolerance approach that combines coarse-grained redundancy repair and error correcting codes (ECC). Hypothetical memory design examples are further used to demonstrate the presented design techniques.
Adaptation of diaphyseal structure to aging and decreased mechanical loading in the adult rat: a densitometric and histomorphometric study.

Nine-month-old female rats were subjected to right hindlimb immobilization or served as controls for 0, 2, 10, 18, and 26 weeks. They were double-labeled with bone markers prior to sacrifice. Experimental unloading was produced by immobilizing the right limb against the abdomen with an elastic bandage. Single-photon absorptiometry was performed on the intact femurs; static and dynamic histomorphometry were performed on 20-μm thick toluidine blue-stained, undecalcified cross sections of the tibial shafts. Changes in the continuously immobilized tibiae were compared to those in both tibiae of age-matched controls. Unloading shut off nearly all periosteal bone formation and accelerates bone marrow expansion over that which occurs in age-related controls. The effects of unloading appeared to be mediated by recruiting fewer osteoblasts which showed inhibited activity. Furthermore, unloading increased endocortical percentage eroded surface. These histological changes lowered cortical bone mass by inhibiting diaphyseal cross sectional expansion and enlarging the bone marrow cavity. The results support Frost's suggestion that decreased mechanical usage depresses bone modeling-dependent bone gain by decreasing activation of modeling in the formation mode. It also stimulates bone remodeling-dependent bone loss by increasing activation of remodeling in the resorption mode.
Debugging strategies for mere mortals

Recent improvements in design verification strive to automate error detection and greatly enhance engineers' ability to detect functional errors. However, the process of diagnosing the cause of these errors, and subsequently fixing them, remains one of the most difficult tasks of verification. The complexity of design descriptions, paired with the scarcity of software tools supporting this task lead to an activity that is mostly ad-hoc, labor intensive and accessible only to a few debugging specialists within a design house. This paper discusses some recent research solutions that support the debugging effort by simplifying and automating bug diagnosis. These novel techniques demonstrate that, through the support of structured methodologies, debugging can become a task pursued by the average design engineer. We also outline some of the upcoming trends in design verification, postponing some the verification effort to runtime, and discuss how debugging could leverage these trends to achieve better quality of results.
Searching a file system using inferred semantic links

We describe Eureka, a file system search engine that takes into account the inherent relationships among files in order to improve the rankings of search results. The key idea is to automatically infer semantic links within the file system, and use the structure of the links to determine the importance of different files and essentially bias the result rankings. We discuss the inference of semantic links and describe the design of the Eureka search engine.