cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Multi-dimensional search for personal information management systems

With the explosion in the amount of semi-structured data users access and store in personal information management systems, there is a need for complex search tools to retrieve often very heterogeneous data in a simple and efficient way. Existing tools usually index text content, allowing for some IR-style ranking on the textual part of the query, but only consider structure (e.g., file directory) and metadata (e.g., date, file type) as filtering conditions. We propose a novel multi-dimensional approach to semi-structured data searches in personal information management systems by allowing users to provide fuzzy structure and metadata conditions in addition to keyword conditions. Our techniques provide a complex query interface that is more comprehensive than content-only searches as it considers three query dimensions (content, structure, metadata) in the search. We propose techniques to individually score each dimension, as well as a framework to integrate the three dimension scores into a meaningful unified score. Our work is integrated in Wayfinder, an existing fully-functioning file system. We perform a thorough experimental evaluation of our techniques to show the effect of approximating individual dimensions on the overall scores and ranks of files, as well as on query performance. Our experiments show that our scoring strategy adequately takes into account the approximation in each dimension to efficiently evaluate fuzzy multi-dimensional queries. In addition, fuzzy query conditions in non-content dimensions can significantly improve scoring (and thus ranking) accuracy.
hCGβ Residues 94–96 alter LH activity without appearing to make key receptor contacts

Abstract The ability of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) to distinguish lutropin (LHR) and follitropin (FSHR) receptors is controlled principally by β-subunit residues 94–117. To learn how residues 94–96 (Arg-Arg-Ser) influence LHR binding, we studied the effects of replacing them on the LH and FSH activities of a bifunctional hCG analog in which residues 101–109 were derived from FSH. Analogs containing 1–3 arginines and no aspartates at residues 94–96 bound LHR with 25–400% the potency of hCG. When residues 94–96 were neutral or contained 1–3 aspartates, LHR binding was reduced 6–100 fold but remained at least ten-fold greater than the negative control analog containing residues 94–117 derived from FSH. Residues 94–96 had little influence on FSHR binding. These observations support a model [Moyle et al. (1995) J. Biol. Chem. 270:20 020] in which residues 94–96 influence LHR binding specificity primarily through an effect on hormone conformation rather than by direct participation in essential high affinity receptor contacts.
Tension distribution shaping via reconfigurable attachment in planar mobile cable robots

Traditional cable robots derive their manipulation capabilities using spooling winches at fixed base locations. In our previous work, we examined enhancing manipulation capabilities of cable robots by the addition of base mobility to spooling winches (allowing a group of mobile robots to cooperatively manipulate a payload using cables). Base mobility facilitated the regulation of the tension-direction (via active coordination of mobile bases) and allowed for better conditioning of the wrench-feasible workspace. In this paper we explore putting idler pulleys on the payload attachment as alternate means to simplify the design and enable practical deployment. We examine analysis of the system using ellipse geometry and develop a virtual cable-subsystem formulation (which also facilitates subsumption into the previously developed mobile cable robot analysis framework). We also seek improvement of the tension distribution by utilizing configuration space redundancy to shape the tension null space. This tension distribution shaping is implemented in the form of a tension factor optimization problem over the workspace and explored via both simulation and experimental studies.
A minimum on the mean number of steps taken in adaptive walks.

Abstract I consider the adaptation of a DNA sequence when mutant fitnesses are drawn randomly from a probability distribution. I focus on “gradient” adaptation in which the population jumps to the best mutant sequence available at each substitution. Given a random starting point, I derive the distribution of the number of substitutions that occur during adaptive walks to a locally optimal sequence. I show that the mean walk length is a constant:L =e−1, where e≈2.72. I argue that this result represents a limit on what is possible under any form of adaptation. No adaptive algorithm on any fitness landscape can arrive at a local optimum in fewer than a mean of L=e−1 steps when starting from a random sequence. Put differently, evolution must try out at least e wild-type sequences during an average bout of adaptation.
Characteristics of virus-specific RNA in avian sarcoma virus-transformed BHK-21 cells and revertants.

Several characteristics of viral RNA transcripts in a clone of avian sarcoma virus (ASV)-transformed baby hamster kidney cells have been studied and compared with the characteristics of viral RNA in clones of cells reverted to a normal phenotype. As reported previously [Deng, C. T., Boettiger, D., Macpherson, I., and Varmus, H. E. (1974). Virology62, 512–5211, both transformed and reverted cells contain one DNA copy of the viral genome per cell, but the concentration of viral RNA is 2- to 85-fold higher in the transformed cells than in the reverted cells. We now show that ASV RNA from cells of both types contains poly(A) sequences, is threefold more abundant in the cytoplasm than in the nuclei, and is associated with polyribosomes. In the transformed clone, whole cell RNA contains 35 and 24 S species of ASV RNA, whereas only 24 S ASV RNA is detected in the cytoplasm; in the reverted clones, the 24 S species of ASV RNA is present in whole cell RNA and in poly(A)-containing cytoplasmic RNA, but the amounts of viral RNA in these cells are too low to determine unambiguously whether they also contain 35 S ASV RNA. Nucleotide sequences specific for the transforming gene of ASV are present in the RNA, including the polyribosome-associated RNA, of both transformed and reverted cell types, but the concentration of these sequences is reduced in the reverted cell and its polyribosomes in proportion to the overall reduction in viral RNA in reverted cells. Thus, a reduction in the concentration of viral RNA may be the only change in viral gene expression in the reverted cells.
The role of the hippocampus in the retrieval of a spatial location

Based on computational models of the hippocampus, it has been suggested that a possible mechanism for memory retrieval is pattern completion, wherein an autoassociative network recalls previous patterns of activity given noisy or degraded cues. However, there are few behavioral data examining pattern completion per se in the hippocampus. Here, we present a study in which rats were tested on a spatial location retrieval paradigm, each trial of which consisted of a sample and choice phase. During the sample phase, rats were trained to displace an object in one of 15 possible locations to retrieve a food reward and return to the start-box on a cheeseboard maze. The object was then removed and the same location was re-baited for the choice phase. The rats' accuracy in returning to the correct location was recorded. On test trials, visual extramaze cues, vestibular cues, or both were manipulated to assess pattern completion in normal rats. Subjects were then randomly assigned to receive a cortical control, a sham, or a dorsal and ventral hippocampal lesion and were retested on the task. Control and unoperated rats were able to perform the task when visual extramaze or vestibular cues were reliable, but not when they were manipulated. Rats with hippocampal lesions were impaired in the baseline condition, as well as during all manipulations. These results support the hypothesis that the hippocampus supports the retrieval of a spatial location, possibly through a process of pattern completion.
The social realities of adherence to protease inhibitor regimens: substance use, health care and psychological states.

Adherence to HIV antiretroviral treatments is impacted by a variety of factors nested within the realities of people’s lives.To understand this phenomenon, we undertook an investigation to assess HIV medication adherence in a community-based sample of 300 HIV seropositive men-who-have-sex-with-men (MSM). Using multiple measurement strategies (self-report, electronic monitoring, calendar-based assessments) we assessed factors related to medication adherence. Our findings indicate that adherence to protease inhibitor regimens are highly variable and are related to contextual, intrapersonal and behavioral factors, including access to health care, the use of specific recreational substances, self-efficacy toward adherence and avoidant coping strategies. These results suggest that a complex interaction between intrapsychic and socio-cultural realities may help to explain adherence to HIV treatment medications.
DupChecker: a bioconductor package for checking high-throughput genomic data redundancy in meta-analysis

Meta-analysis has become a popular approach for high-throughput genomic data analysis because it often can significantly increase power to detect biological signals or patterns in datasets. However, when using public-available databases for meta-analysis, duplication of samples is an often encountered problem, especially for gene expression data. Not removing duplicates could lead false positive finding, misleading clustering pattern or model over-fitting issue, etc in the subsequent data analysis. We developed a Bioconductor package Dupchecker that efficiently identifies duplicated samples by generating MD5 fingerprints for raw data. A real data example was demonstrated to show the usage and output of the package. Researchers may not pay enough attention to checking and removing duplicated samples, and then data contamination could make the results or conclusions from meta-analysis questionable. We suggest applying DupChecker to examine all gene expression data sets before any data analysis step.
Solvent Deuterium Isotope Effect on the Binding of β-d-Galactopyranosyl Derivatives to β-Galactosidase (Escherichia coli, lac Z)

Abstract A value of 1.8 has been determined for (KI)HOH/(KI)DOD, the ratio of the values of KI for competitive inhibition of β-galactosidase by isopropyl β-d-thiogalactopyranoside in H2O and D2O. This is similar to the value of 1.7 for (Km)HOH/(Km)DOD, the ratio of the Michaelis constants determined for the β-galactosidase-catalyzed hydrolysis of 4-nitrophenyl β-d-galactopyranoside (Gal-OPNP) in H2O and D2O. The similarity of these solvent deuterium isotope effects suggests that the observed isotope effect on Km corresponds, mainly, to the isotope effect on the dissociation constant Kd for Gal-OPNP. The implications of these results for the interpretation of the solvent deuterium isotope effects on kcat and kcat/Km for β-galactosidase-catalyzed hydrolysis of Gal-OPNP is discussed.
The Degradation of Solar Cells under Van Allen Radiation

The electrons and protons of the Van Allen Belt cause radiation damage to silicon solar cells which results in a gradual reduction of the power output of solar power plants on satellites passing through the Belt. The study of the radiation damage caused by monoenergetic electrons and by monoenergetic protons of various energy indicates that N on P solar cells are substantially more radiation resistant than the commonly used P on N cells. From such studies and a knowledge of the composition of the Van Allen Belt, a flux of, for example, 1 Mev electrons can be determined that will cause the same radiation damage per unit time to a bare solar cell as the Van Allen Belt spectrum would produce under a given shielding. Observations of radiation damage on satellites are also conveniently expressed in terms of such an equivalent flux. Measurements of solar cell short circuit current changes and changes in the current gain of specially designed highly radiation sensitive transistors have been performed on the Telstar satellite. The results are in general agreement with the radiation damage expected from the observed particle flux and they indicate that solar power is practical for long-life satellites passing through the Van Allen Belt, particularly if N on P solar cells are used.
HIV gp120-specific cell-mediated immune responses in mice after oral immunization with recombinant Salmonella

Salmonella is of great interest as a potential human immunodeficiency virus vaccine vector because of its ability to elicit potent mucosal and systemic immune responses when administered orally. To determine whether such a vaccine could elicit an immune response in mice, plasmids expressing HIV gp120-LAI were introduced into attenuated S. typhimurium. Three serial doses of 10(10) recombinant organisms were administered orally to BALB/c mice at 2-week intervals. Immunized mice but not control mice demonstrated proliferative T cell responses to gp120-LAI, comparable in magnitude to the proliferative responses to Salmonella antigens. Immunized mice had detectable serum and intestinal Salmonella-specific IgA and serum Salmonella-specific IgG. However, no gp120-specific antibody was detected in either serum or intestinal washes. These results indicate that live recombinant Salmonella-based vaccine constructs can induce HIV-specific cellular immune responses in vivo.
Simplified Model for Steady State and Real-Time Ampacity of Overhead Conductors

Recently the utility industry has recognized that there are substantial economic advantages that can be achieved by knowing the real-time temperature of a conductor when it is subjected to variations in current and weather conditions. Unfortunately realtime thermal models for the calculation of temperature of overhead conductors are usually quite complex. This paper proposes a simplified transient ampacity model that overcomes this difficulty. The model predicts both the steady state and transient thermal behavior of conductors that are subjected to a step change in current. The simplified model provides results that are within 15 percent of a more complex, detailed transient ampacity model.
On the order of general linear methods

General linear (GL) methods are numerical algorithms used to solve ODEs. The standard order conditions analysis involves the GL matrix itself and a starting procedure; however, a finishing method (F) is required to extract the actual ODE solution. The standard order analysis and stability are sufficient for the convergence of any GL method. Nonetheless, using a simple GL scheme, we show that the order definition may be too restrictive. Specifically, the order for GL methods with low order intermediate components may be underestimated. In this note we explore the order conditions for GL schemes and propose a new definition for characterizing the order of GL methods, which is focused on the final result – the outcome of F – and can provide more effective algebraic order conditions.
Regulation of microbial phenanthrene mineralization in sediment samples by sorbent‐sorbate contact time, inocula and gamma irradiation‐induced sterilization artifacts

Time-dependent diffusion and/or sorption reactions were proposed as a mechanism for protecting polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in surface and subsurface sediments from a coal tar waste-contaminated field site. 14 C-labeled phenanthrene was aged in both subsurface sand and organic matter-rich seep sediments that had previously been sterilized by gamma irradiation. After aging periods ranging from 0 to 28 d, the sediments were dispensed to replicate vials and inoculated with site-derived phenanthrene-degrading microorganisms (with and without previous enrichment on phenanthrene), and cumulative 14 CO 2 production was measured. When pure culture and mixed inocula originated from the seep sediments, phenanthrene mineralization from sand sediment samples was retarded with longer aging periods. However, when a mixed inoculum originating from the sand sediments was tested, aging of the phenanthrene had only a slight or no effect on its rate or extent of mineralization. Thus, the susceptibility of phenanthrene to biodegradation varied with the source of the microbial inocula. When gamma-irradiated seep sediments were the sorbent, all mineralization of 14 C phenanthrene was eliminated. Several hypotheses were tested for explaining this sorbent-dependent inhibition of phenanthrene metabolism. Gamma radiation-induced changes in the sorptive properties of the seep sediment seemed to be the cause.
Nonspontaneous late preterm birth: etiology and outcomes.

Objective We sought to determine the proportion of evidence-based (EB), vs non-EB (NEB) iatrogenic late preterm birth, and to compare corresponding rates of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission. Study Design We performed a retrospective cohort study. Cases were categorized as EB or NEB. NICU admission was compared between groups in both univariate and multivariate analysis. Results Of 2693 late preterm deliveries, 32.3% (872/2693) were iatrogenic; 56.7% were delivered for NEB indications. Women with NEB deliveries were older (30.0 vs 28.6 years, P = .001), and more likely to be pregnant with twins (18.8% vs 7.9%, P P P Conclusion Over half of nonspontaneous late preterm births were NEB. EB guidelines are needed.
A statistical analysis of mesoscale rainfall as a random cascade

The paper considers the random cascade theory for spatial rainfall. Particular attention was given to the following four areas: (1) the relationship of the random cascade theory of rainfall to the simple scaling and the hierarchical cluster-point-process theories, (2) the mathematical foundations for some of the formalisms commonly applied in the develpment of statistical cascade theory, (3) the empirical evidence for a random cascade theory of rainfall, and (4) the way of using data for making estimates of parameters and for making statistical inference within this theoretical framework. An analysis of space-time rainfall data is presented. Cascade simulations are carried out to provide a comparison with methods of analysis that are applied to the rainfall data.
An Outbreak of Urinary Tract Infections and Septicemia due to Escherichia coli in Male Infants.

Eleven previously normal male infants under 2 months of age were admitted forpyelonephritis and sepsis due to E. coli to two Baltimore hospitals during one 12 week period in 1958. Bacteriologic records from one of the hospitals indicated that there was during this time an unusually high incidence of these infections. Strains of E. coli recovered from the blood of 2 of the infants, the only ones available later for study, were both identified as E. coli 04 : K12 (L) : H5. The clinical records of 10 of the infants were reviewed. Maternal obstetric complications were frequent, although the infants' neonatal courses were normal. Six of the infants were discharged from the same newborn nursery during a 3 month period. Clinically and pathologically these infants were similar to previously reported sporadic cases of pyelonephritis and sepsis. The strains of E. coli O4 isolated during the outbreak and a strain of E. coli O7 recovered from another isolated case of pyelonephritis and sepsis were more virulent for mice than an enteropathogenic strain of E. coli O111.
Theoretical estimates of the dynamic, radiative and chemical effects of clouds on tropospheric trace gases

Abstract Using a subhemispheric-scale tropospheric chemistry model, we examine the influence of cloud-scale processes on regional-scale tropospheric chemistry. Reactions producing sulfuric acid and ozone (O 3 ) are found to be very sensitive to the dynamic, radiative, and aqueous chemical processes occurring in clouds. During a three-day spring-time period over the northeast U.S., aqueous-phase chemical reactions in clouds occupying 1–2% of the tropospheric volume are calculated to oxidize SO 2 to sulfuric acid at a rate comparable to gas-phase reactions occurring throughout the troposphere. During the passage of a midlatitude cyclonic storm system, the model calculates that over 65% of the sulfuric acid in the troposphere over the northeast U.S. is formed in cloud droplets via aqueous-phase chemical reactions. The model calculations show that the vertically integrated O 3 formation rate is enhanced by ∼50% when vertical motions in clouds are allowed to rapidly transport surface-emitted nitrogen oxides and organic compounds into the upper troposphere This results from a rapid dilution and transport of these oxidant precursors out of the planetary boundary layer into a colder and drier chemical environment where photolysis rates are significantly enhanced by cloud albedo. Below-cloud photolysis rates are calculated to be sensitive to the mean cloud-drop radius and cloud liquid-water content, implying that photochemistry during cloudy periods is sensitive to the microphysical structure of overlying clouds. Sulfuric acid and O 3 formation rates are highly correlated with tropospheric cloud amount, implying that an uncertainty in the mesoscale distribution of cloudiness leads to a similar uncertainty in the rates of these tropospheric chemical reactions. At present, it is difficult to evaluate parameterizations of these cloud-scale processes in regional or global-scale tropospheric chemical models. These model results suggest that accurate microphysical, dynamical and mesoscale characterizations of clouds are required in regional or global-scale tropospheric chemical models.
Frequency dependence of MR relaxation times. I. Paramagnetic ions.

T1 and T2 of paramagnetic ions in free and chelated form were measured over the range of clinical magnetic resonance imaging field strengths (0.02-1.5 T). T1 values agreed with published data; however, to our knowledge, the field dependence of T2 has not been systematically studied before. Mn2+, Cr3+, and Fe3+ all showed T2 reduction at high field strengths, although reduction due to Fe3+ was minimal. This is believed to be due to “contact” interactions, which have been previously noted for manganese. No such T2 reduction was seen in the chelates, except that dysprosium chelate (but not free ion) showed an anomalous decrease in T2 at high field strengths, which may possibly be explained by a dephasing effect caused by the large magnetic moment of Dy3+.
Polarized H- Ion Source Development for the AGS

The polarized H- ion source that Argonne National Laboratory and Yale University are building for the AGS polarized beam facility is based on the crossed beam concept in which a polarized atomic hydrogen beam, H?o, is ionized to H- by a fast neutral cesium beam, Cso. We describe our studies which will aid in achieving a high intensity polarized H- beam. In particular, we describe time-of-flight studies on the atomic beam and the effect of dissociation nozzle cooling on the velocity distribution. The cesium gun design is described, and a brief discussion of the H?o-Cso interaction region is given.
Defining Criteria for Oligomannose Immunogens for HIV Using Icosahedral Virus Capsid Scaffolds

Summary The broadly neutralizing antibody 2G12 recognizes a conserved cluster of high-mannose glycans on the surface envelope spike of HIV, suggesting that the "glycan shield" defense of the virus can be breached and may, under the right circumstances, serve as a vaccine target. In an attempt to recreate features of the glycan shield semisynthetically, oligomannosides were coupled to surface lysines on the icosahedral capsids of bacteriophage Qβ and cowpea mosaic virus (CPMV). The Qβ glycoconjugates, but not CPMV, presented oligomannose clusters that bind the antibody 2G12 with high affinity. However, antibodies against these 2G12 epitopes were not detected in immunized rabbits. Rather, alternative oligomannose epitopes on the conjugates were immunodominant and elicited high titers of anti-mannose antibodies that do not crossreact with the HIV envelope. The results presented reveal important design considerations for a carbohydrate-based vaccine component for HIV.
Valence determination of titanium and iron using electron energy loss spectroscopy

A method of determining the valence state of titanium and iron in ceramic materials using the electron energy loss spectroscopy is given. In this method the L 2,3 loss edges of a standard are determined and the unknown valence state is determined by observing its spectrum and comparing it to the established standard.
AMPK-dependent phosphorylation of ULK1 regulates ATG9 localization

Autophagy is activated in response to a variety of cellular stresses including metabolic stress. While elegant genetic studies in yeast have identified the core autophagy machinery, the signaling pathways that regulate this process are less understood. AMPK is an energy sensing kinase and several studies have suggested that AMPK is required for autophagy. The biochemical connections between AMPK and autophagy, however, have not been elucidated. In this report, we identify a biochemical connection between a critical regulator of autophagy, ULK1, and the energy sensing kinase, AMPK. ULK1 forms a complex with AMPK, and AMPK activation results in ULK1 phosphorylation. Moreover, we demonstrate that the immediate effect of AMPK-dependent phosphorylation of ULK1 results in enhanced binding of the adaptor protein YWHAZ/14-3-3ζ; and this binding alters ULK1 phosphorylation in vitro. Finally, we provide evidence that both AMPK and ULK1 regulate localization of a critical component of the phagophore, ATG9, and that some of the AMPK phosphorylation sites on ULK1 are important for regulating ATG9 localization. Taken together these data identify an ULK1-AMPK signaling cassette involved in regulation of the autophagy machinery.
Recall and recognition in mild hypoxia: using covariance structural modeling to test competing theories of explicit memory

To test theories of explicit memory in amnesia, we examined the effect of hypoxia on memory performance in a group of 56 survivors of sudden cardiac arrest. Structural equation modeling revealed that a single-factor explanation of recall and recognition was insufficient to account for performance, thus contradicting single-process models of explicit memory. A dual-process model of recall in which two processes (e.g., declarative memory and controlled search) contribute to recall performance, whereas only one process (e.g., declarative memory) underlies recognition performance, also failed to explain the results adequately. In contrast, a dual-process model of recognition provided an acceptable account of the data. In this model, two processes--recollection and familiarity--underlie recognition memory, whereas only the recollection process contributes to free recall. The best-fitting model was one in which hypoxia and aging led to deficits in recollection, but left familiarity unaffected. Moreover, a controlled search process was correlated with recollection, but was not associated with familiarity or the severity of hypoxia. The results support models of explicit memory in which recollection depends on the hippocampus and frontal lobes, whereas familiarity-based recognition relies on other brain regions.
Optimization of Short-Term On-Street Park-Pay License Plate Surveying

AbstractMany cities in urban and suburban areas are characterized by parking space problems, especially during peak hours and special events. To overcome these problems, some local governments initiate on-street short-term pay programs to limit lengths of stay and generate revenue. The problem lies in determining which data should be collected, how frequently, and for how long to produce significant results. This study applied power analysis in analyzing rate of turnover and utilization levels to develop optimum data collection using license plate surveying methodology. A case involving downtown areas, shopping centers, and beach parks is presented. Analysis evaluated the probability of detecting desired changes, minimum detectable changes (MDC), and coefficient of variation (CV) for different data monitoring frequencies over desired data collection periods. Three critical license plate monitoring intervals for downtown parking were identified to be between 5–20 min, 30–40 min, and 40–60 min, with each gr...
Rolling-Element Fatigue Testing and Data Analysis - A Tutorial

In order to rank bearing materials, lubricants and other design variables using rolling-element bench type fatigue testing of bearing components and full-scale rolling-element bearing tests, the investigator needs to be cognizant of the variables that affect rolling-element fatigue life and be able to maintain and control them within an acceptable experimental tolerance. Once these variables are controlled, the number of tests and the test conditions must be specified to assure reasonable statistical certainty of the final results. There is a reasonable correlation between the results from elemental test rigs with those results obtained with full-scale bearings. Using the statistical methods of W. Weibull and L. Johnson, the minimum number of tests required can be determined. This paper brings together and discusses the technical aspects of rolling-element fatigue testing and data analysis as well as making recommendations to assure quality and reliable testing of rolling-element specimens and full-scale rolling-element bearings.
Obese Gene (Leptin) Receptors are Widely Distributed in Embryonic Tissues • 293

Leptin receptors (LR) mediate central (satiety) and peripheral metabolic actions of the translated and secreted product of the obese (ob) gene. While two isoforms as products of RNA splicing have been characterized, both of them bind leptin on the same epitope. Even though LR has been reported in adult tissues, limited information exists with respect to its presence and tissue-distribution in the embryo. We examined the spatial and temporal distribution of LR in the rat conceptus and placenta from d9 to d21 at 2 day intervals (term≈d21), and postnatal d15, and d30 (n=7/age/group). Employing frozen saggital embryonic and postnatal rat sections, 125I-leptin binding in the presence and absence of 0.6 × 10-6M unlabeled leptin was assessed by autoradiography and microdensitometry (Molecular Analyst Microdensitometry Program - 1.4.1, NIH). On d9, the placenta revealed LR while the known control (125I-insulin binding [IR]) was noted in amniotic membranes. At d11, LR was noted in the liver, while liver IR was present at d13. LR was present in the brain [d13], spine and long bones [d13], heart [d15], and kidney [d17]. The LR increased 2.5 fold in density from d9 to d21 (p < 0.01), with a subsequent 3-fold rise postnatally reaching a peak at d15 (p < 0.05). In contrast, IR demonstrated a 1.5-fold increase prenatally followed by a peak at postnatal d15. We conclude that 1] LR are present in embryonic tissues although the ontogenic peak is observed postnatally at d15, 2] LR are distributed in various tissues, with the earliest appearance being limited to the placenta and liver even before its appearance in the brain. We speculate that LR mediate the biological effects of leptin both centrally and peripherally in the embryo thereby regulating metabolism and growth.
What's in a number? Gender bias and ideology in economic statistics

Abstract Growing concern about the social and economic status of women has fostered inquiry into the nature and extent of their economic activity. Such studies have drawn attention to the inadequacy of data in this area. Scholars in both the industrialized and developing nations argue that traditional statistical measures of production and employment tend to underrepresent the economic activity and contribution of women. The problem is rooted in the definition and measurement of women's work and raises important questions about the role of ideology in statistical measurement and interpretation. This article examines the issue of gender bias in economic statistics and its implications for research and policy-making.
Richard Selzer: Premiere American Surgeon-Writer

Richard Selzer (b.1928) is one of the most prominent American surgeon-authors alive today. Only Sherwin Nuland (b.1930), from Yale University Medical School as Selzer was, carries the same outstanding virtues of good surgery and excellent writing. Recently, Atul Gawande (b. 1965) has taken a road similar to these two distinguished predecessors. Selzer has produced 14 books of superb scholarship and immense value for the active and committed surgeon. He describes, with unusual grace and wit, different aspects of great interest to the surgeon's life. He includes details of instruments, particularly the surgical knife, approaching this essential and many times lifesaving instrument with unparalleled courage and incredible precision. He also advances with savvy understanding and well-defined knowledge the great character of various organs of the human body. Richard Selzer offers a special perspective on being a surgeon and a writer. He has been on both sides of these professions. He practiced general surgery ...
Making Compliance Seem More Important: The “Just-One-More” Technique of Gaining Compliance

A new compliance-gaining technique is introduced called the “just-one-more” (JOM) technique that increases compliance rates by including the phrase “I just need one more person to help.” Two studies are reported (N = 160 in each). The first established the effectiveness of the technique as compared to a direct request. The second tested the hypothesis that goal difficulty moderates the technique's effectiveness in a 2 (JOM or direct request) × 2 (requester needs five surveys or 100). Results indicate that the JOM was substantially more effective than a direct request in the 100 surveys condition but not the five.
Angiogenesis and its hormonal control in the corpus luteum of the pregnant rat.

Beginning on Day 8 of pregnancy (Day 1 = sperm in vaginal smear), rats were injected i.p. with [3H] thymidine (TDR), killed 3 h later, and corpora lutea (CL) were dissected and saved for determining radioactivity in the acid-insoluble fraction or for autoradiography to determine labeling index (LI) of luteal and endothelial cells. An approximate doubling in DNA content in CL occurred between Days 13 and 14, with a high level maintained through Day 23. This was reflected in an abrupt increase in [3H] TDR incorporation on Day 13, with the peak reached on Day 14 and a subsequent decline to baseline values on Day 18. Autoradiography revealed that the LI of luteal endothelial cells rose from 2.1% on Day 12 to 10.0% on Day 14, and the LI of luteal cells correspondingly increased from 0.3% to 2.3%. Hypophysectomy (H) on Day 12 resulted, by Day 14, in no change in serum progesterone (P4) and TDR incorporation and LI of endothelial cells. However, after H and hysterectomy (HS) on Day 12, by Day 14, animals had low values for LI of endothelial and luteal cells, [3H] TDR incorporation and serum P4. After H + HS at Day 12, animals injected daily with estradiol cyclopentylpropionate (200 micrograms/day) on Days 12-14 had serum P4, [3H] TDR incorporation and LI of endothelial cells comparable to intact controls but not to luteal cells. However, similar treatment with testosterone cypionate (200 micrograms/day) or P4 (10 mg/day) did not maintain [3H] TDR incorporation or LI of either cell type, although serum P4 and estradiol levels were restored to normal values.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Annealing C60+: Synthesis of Fullerenes and Large Carbon Rings

Laser vaporization of graphite generates C60+ cluster ions that are fullerenes and a mixture of roughly planar polycyclic polyyne ring isomers. Experimental studies of the annealing of the non-fullerene C60+ ions indicate that they can be converted (in the gas phase) into the fullerene and an isomer that appears to be a large monocyclic ring. Some fragmentation is associated with conversion to the fullerene geometry, but the majority of the non-fullerene C60+ isomers are cleanly converted into an intact fullerene. The emergence of the monocyclic ring (as the clusters are annealed) suggests that this is a relatively stable non-spheroidal form of these all carbon molecules. The estimated activation energies for the observed structural interconversions are relatively low, suggesting that these processes may play an important role in the synthesis of spheroidal fullerenes.
A Test of the Validity of a Model of the Prerequisites of Effective Organisational Consulting

In 1988, personality and effectiveness data were collected from a sample of 105 organisational development consultants. A model was developed of the relationship between OD consultants′ personality characteristics and their effectiveness as change agents. The present study provides validation for that model by studying the same personality characteristics in a sample with slightly differing demographics. The question was tested statistically by using the regression equation from the sample used in 1988 to predict the dependent variable (consultant effectiveness) in this study′s sample.
Highly ionized atoms toward HD 93521

Results are reported from the HST High Resolution Spectrograph observations of absorption features of C IV and Si IV in the spectrum of the high-latitude O star HD 93521 (l = 183 deg; b = 62 deg). A comparison of Si IV and C IV profiles showed that the FWHM of both features is about 50 km/sec, in contrast to the 7 km/sec found for one of the several S II features. The line centers for C IV and Si IV are at v = -67 km/sec and -60 km/sec, respectively. As the interval velocity decreases from 90 to 50 km/sec, the Si IV/C IV ratio of the column density per unit velocity interval increases from about 0.2 to 0.4. The result is qualitatively consistent with a fountain model of Shapiro and Benjamin (1991) if the slower gas has cooled and recombined more than the faster gas.
A mutational analysis of binding interactions in an antigen-antibody protein-protein complex.

Alanine scanning mutagenesis, double mutant cycles, and X-ray crystallography were used to characterize the interface between the anti-hen egg white lysozyme (HEL) antibody D1.3 and HEL. Twelve out of the 13 nonglycine contact residues on HEL, as determined by the high-resolution crystal structure of the D1.3−HEL complex, were individually truncated to alanine. Only four positions showed a ΔΔG (ΔGmutant − ΔGwild-type) of greater than 1.0 kcal/mol, with HEL residue Gln121 proving the most critical for binding (ΔΔG = 2.9 kcal/mol). These residues form a contiguous patch at the periphery of the epitope recognized by D1.3. To understand how potentially disruptive mutations in the antigen are accommodated in the D1.3−HEL interface, we determined the crystal structure to 1.5 A resolution of the complex between D1.3 and HEL mutant Asp18 → Ala. This mutation results in a ΔΔG of only 0.3 kcal/mol, despite the loss of a hydrogen bond and seven van der Waals contacts to the Asp18 side chain. The crystal structure re...
Evaluation of a thermo-tolerant acidophilic alga, Galdieria sulphuraria, for nutrient removal from urban wastewaters.

Abstract Nutrient removal from primary wastewater effluent was tested using Galdieria sulphuraria, an acidophilic and moderately thermophilic alga. Biomass yield recorded in this study (27.42 g biomass per g nitrogen removed) is higher than the average reported in the literature (25.75 g g−1) while, the theoretical yield estimated from the empirical molecular formula of algal biomass is 15.8 g g−1. Seven-day removal efficiencies were 88.3% for ammoniacal-nitrogen and 95.5% for phosphates; corresponding removal rates were 4.85 and 1.21 mg L−1 d−1. Although these rates are lower than the average literature values for other strains (6.36 and 1.34 mg L−1 d−1, respectively), potential advantages of G. sulphuraria for accomplishing energy-positive nutrient removal are highlighted. Feasibility of growing G. sulphuraria outdoors at densities higher than in high-rate oxidation ponds is also demonstrated.
The impact of the Cretaceous/Tertiary bolide on evaporite terrane and generation of major sulfuric acid aerosol

Abstract Impact glasses from the K/T boundary in Haiti include high-Ca glasses with up to 1 wt.% SO3, formed by the fusion of anhydrite- or gypsum-rich evaporite sediments in the presence of high-silica melts, derived from melting of continental crust. Experimental studies have duplicated these two melts by fusion of gypsum and andesite, and suggest a formation temperature of 1300°C. Geochemical evidence from the glasses is consistent with their derivation from the 180 km diameter Chicxulub impact crater on the Yucatan peninsula (Mexico), situated in a thick late Cretaceous evaporite succession. This large-diameter crater is most likely the result of a cometary impact, on the basis of bolide scaling from the Ir anomaly in K/T boundary sediments. The sulfur degassing associated with formation of the high-Ca glass alone could have formed a2 × 1016 g H2SO4 stratospheric aerosol. However, the total sulfur degassing from the evaporite-rich sediments in the Chicxulub impact site may have led to formation of3.8 × 1018 to1.3 × 1019 g sulfate aerosol, and global atmospheric mass loading from the sulfate aerosol alone is estimated to beof the order of 1–2.6 g cm−2. Combined with the great optical depth estimates of Pollack et al. [1] and Covey et al. [2] resulting from an impact “dust” cloud, the sulfate aerosol may have contributed not only to a rapid decline in global surface temperatures to near-freezing in about one week, but also prolonged the cooling for several years because of the time-dependent conversion of SO2 to H2SO4 aerosol in the atmosphere. The contribution of sulfur to acid rain following the K/T boundary event may have equalled the proposed rainout of nitric acid.
Use of the PARC code for generic NASP nozzles operating at off-design transonic conditions

A three-dimensional Navier-Stokes solver, PARC3D, has been investigated for applications to the wind tunnel testing of high-speed nozzle configurations, particularly with extended expansion ramps, operating at transonic off-design conditions. Numerous cases have been run and compared with existing wind tunnel data. The code has been shown to be an efficient and robust tool in the analysis of complex nozzle configurations whose flows are substantially determined by three-dimensional effects. Although the method requires that a grid, generated independently of the code, be supplied to it, the robust nature of the code does not require that this grid be excessively detailed, nor does it seem to require that the grid be fine-tuned for individual cases. The directness and flexibility of the boundary condition specifications allow a variety of configurations and flow conditions to be handled very efficiently.
Axicon amplification of a synchronously pumped subpicosecond dye laser

The performance of a conical axicon dye amplifier pumped by a frequency-doubled Q-switched Nd:YAG laser is evaluated. The open aluminum axicon described forms a relatively inexpensive power amplification stage capable of routinely delivering pulse energies of several millijoules at 500 ps over a wavelength range of 610–660 nm. Measurements of the transverse-mode quality indicate excellent focusing properties.
Some Aspects of the Effects of Sensible Heating on the Development of Summer Weather Systems over the Tibetan Plateau

Abstract The influence of sensible heating from the earth's surface on the development of summertime vortices over the Tibetan Plateau was investigated using a numerical model. It was found that sensible heating could cause local intensification of vortices over high elevations and sometimes act in combination with topography to block intrusions of cold air. Sensible heating can play an important role, not indicated by its magnitude, when it is combined with topography and the proper synoptic situation. Sensible heating had a greater impact over higher elevations, areas with strong cold advection, and areas under the upper-tropospheric jet stream. Sensible heating tends to destabilize an air column, permitting downward transfer of westerly momentum in the vicinity of the jet stream and causing an increase in cyclonic vorticity in the lower troposphere north of the upper-level jet. During the premonsoon period, when the upper-level jet was located over the southern plateau, sensible heating acted to intens...
Red-green chromatic discrimination with variegated and homogeneous stimuli

Abstract Chromatic discrimination thresholds were measured under conditions which yielded fine and degraded discrimination steps. Discrimination was assessed by identification of the location of one of four homogeneous equiluminant stimuli arranged in a square or with pseudoisochromatic (PIC) figures using the stimulus design of Regan, Reffin and Mollon (Vis Res 1994; 34: 1279–1299). Stimuli were presented on CRT monitors and specified in units of cone trolands. They were viewed within a surround metameric to the equal energy spectrum. L troland threshold versus retinal illuminance (TVR) functions were measured by four-alternative spatial forced-choice staircase procedures for (1) a four 1×1° equiluminant stimuli arranged in a square and (2) ‘C’ shaped pseudoisochromatic figures in which the observer had to identify the gap location. The ‘C’ was constructed of spatially discrete patches of varying size and luminance to ensure that the observer's responses depended on chromatic signals. The TVR functions appeared V-shaped and were similar for the two paradigms. The minimum occurred near the L excitation of equal-energy white. The PIC stimuli yielded poorer discrimination with the TVR function being displaced by ∼0.5 log unit. Discrimination for stimuli degraded by luminance and spatial noise presented within an achromatic appearing surround is sharpest near the chromaticity metameric to the equal energy spectrum.
Strong thresholds for ℓ 2 /ℓ 1 -optimization in block-sparse compressed sensing

It has been known for a while that l 1 -norm relaxation can in certain cases solve an under-determined system of linear equations. Recently, [5, 10] proved (in a large dimensional and statistical context) that if the number of equations (measurements in the compressed sensing terminology) in the system is proportional to the length of the unknown vector then there is a sparsity (number of non-zero elements of the unknown vector) also proportional to the length of the unknown vector such that l 1 -norm relaxation succeeds in solving the system. In this paper we determine sharp lower bounds on the values of allowable sparsity for any given number (proportional to the length of the unknown vector) of equations for the case of the so-called block-sparse unknown vectors considered in [25].
INSULIN-STIMULATED GLYCOGEN SYNTHESIS IN CULTURED HEPATOMA CELLS : DIFFERENTIAL EFFECTS OF INHIBITORS OF INSULIN SIGNALING MOLECULES

AbstractIn rat HTC hepatoma cells overexpressing human insulin receptors, insulin stimulated glycogen synthesis by 55–70%. To study postreceptor signaling events leading to insulin-stimulated glycogen synthesis in these cells, we have employed pathway-specific chemical inhibitors such as LY294002, rapamycin and PD98059 to inhibit phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K), p70 ribosomal S6 kinase and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) kinase/MAPK, respectively. LY294002 (50 μM) completely abolished insulin-stimulated glycogen synthesis whereas rapamycin (2–20 nM) partially inhibited it. Neither LY294002 nor rapamycin significantly affected the basal glycogen synthesis. However, PD98059 (100 μM) significantly inhibited the basal glycogen synthesis without affecting insulin-stimulated glycogen synthesis. In these cells, insulin at 100 nM decreased glycogen synthase kinase 3α (GSK3α) activity by 30–35%. LY294002, but neither rapamycin nor PD98059, abolished insulin-induced inactivation of GSK3α. These data su...