cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Immunochemical studies on blood groups. Purification, chemical and immunochemical properties of blood group-active glycoproteins from horse gastric mucosae.

Abstract Digestion of the gastric mucosae of 10 horses with pepsin or Pronase was followed by phenol/ethanol fractionation. Chemical and immunochemical examination of the fractions showed the mucosae to possess various combinations of A, B and H activities. Most were B-active, three had weak A activity, one had strong H activity and the remainder were weakly H-active; one mucosa possessed neither A, B nor H activity. Digestion with pepsin or Pronase of different portions of the same mucosa yielded products equivalent in serological and most chemical properties. Materials digested by Pronase tended to have less peptide nitrogen than those treated with pepsin. Fractions with the strongest serological activities contained significantly higher amounts of carbohydrate and lesser amounts of peptide nitrogen than those with weak A, B or H activity or with no activity. All mucosae, independent of their A, B or H activity, reacted with concanavalin A. The fractions precipitable by 10% ethanol from 90% phenol reacted most strongly.
Healthcare dialogue: constructing electronic interaction to maximize decision quality in deliberations among citizens, issue publics, and elites

The interplay of mass and elite opinion raises theoretical issues about democratic rule, as well as practical issues surrounding the proper formation and implementation of public policy. Many argue that mass opinion is the product of largely unreflective judgments. When complex or technical issues are at stake, such as those involved in the reform of America's health care system, popular input is often deemed untrustworthy. Better informed and considered opinion - expert or elite viewpoints - may prove a more valid basis for wise policy choices. Participatory democratic theorists, on the other hand, argue strenuously for serious involvement of ordinary citizens in shaping government policies (Dryzek, 1990, 1993; deLeon, 1995; Fishkin, 1995).
Image-guided customization of frequency-place mapping in cochlear implants

Multi-channel cochlear implants (CI) leverage frequency based cochlear tonotopic mapping to map acoustic information to the cochlear place of stimulation which is primarily determined by electrode locations. Despite the fact that electrode locations within the cochlea are unique to each patient, the acoustic frequencies assigned to the electrodes by the CI processor are determined generically, resulting in a mismatch between intended and actual pitch perception. This is known to be a limiting factor for hearing outcomes with CIs. In this study, we propose a novel, image-guided CI processor programming strategy to select more optimal, patient-customized frequency assignments. The performance of the proposed strategy was evaluated using vocoder-based simulations with ten normal hearing listeners. In our simulations, our strategy results in significantly better speech recognition scores than the standard clinical strategy.
Towards a comprehensive developmental model of cannabis use disorders

Aims To develop a comprehensive risk-factor model of cannabis use disorders (CUD) based on Kendler's develop- ment model for major depression. Design Risk factors were divided into five developmental tiers based on Kendler's model of depression (childhood, early adolescence, late adolescence, adulthood, past year). Hierarchical logistic regres- sion models were used to examine the independent contribution of each risk factor. Separate models were built to predict the lifetime risk of cannabis use and the risk of CUD among those with a history of lifetime risk of cannabis use. Setting Data were drawn from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC) in the United States. Participants Participants consisted of wave 2 of the NESARC (n = 34 653). Measurements Odds ratios (OR), Adjusted OR (AOR) and confidence intervals (95% CI) were used to determine the risk factors in each tier and with multiple models. Findings After mutually adjusting for the effect of other risk factors, lifetime history of drug use disorder (AOR = 4.78, 95% CI = 1.53-14.91), past year alcohol use disorders (AOR = 6.55, 95% CI = 2.54-16.89) and independent (AOR = 1.57, 95% CI = 1.15-2.14) and dependent (AOR = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.01-1.55) stressful life events predicted lifetime cannabis use. Impulsivity (AOR = 2.18, 95% CI = 1.34-3.53), past year alcohol use disorders (AOR = 4.09, 95% CI = 2.29-7.31), greater number of Axis I disorders (AOR = 1.56, 95% CI = 1.01-2.40) and social deviance (AOR = 1.19, 95% CI = 1.08-1.32) independently increased the risk of the development of CUD, whereas religious service attendance (AOR = 0.50, 95% CI = 0.30-0.85) decreased this risk. In both models, the effect of earlier development tiers was mediated by more proximal ones. There were few gender differences in both models. Conclusions A modification of Kendler's risk factor model for major depression which stratifies risk factors into five groups (childhood, early adolescence, late adolescence, adulthood, past year) provides a useful foundation for a comprehensive developmental model of cannabis use and cannabis use disorders.
Ultracentrifugal studies in capillary cells. I. Determination of sedimentation coefficients.

Abstract A technique has been developed which is based on transport method equations and allows determination of sedimentation coefficients using less than 5 ng of a biological active principle. Glass capillaries of 0.30 mm inside diameter and 3.0 mm length are used as sedimentation cells. About 200 nl of pure or impure solutions with concentration as low as 0.05 mg/ml are ultracentrifuged in a swinging-bucket rotor with a conventional preparative ultracentrifuge. The capillary microcells are easily sectioned after centrifugation through a plane previously marked on the glass surface. The technique was successfully extended to the use of larger glass capillaries, up to 1.25 mm inside diameter, and plastic centrifuge tubes of 5.0 mm diameter and 0.40 ml capacity. The method has been experimentally verified with proteins and protein-polysaccharides of known sedimentation constants.
Five ADNFLE mutations reduce the Ca2+ dependence of the mammalian α4β2 acetylcholine response

Five nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) mutations are currently linked to autosomal dominant nocturnal frontal lobe epilepsy (ADNFLE). The similarity of their clinical symptoms suggests that a common functional anomaly of the mutations underlies ADNFLE seizures. To identify this anomaly, we constructed rat orthologues (S252F, +L264, S256L, V262L, V262M) of the human ADNFLE mutations, expressed them in Xenopus oocytes with the appropriate wild-type (WT) subunit (alpha4 or beta2), and studied the Ca2+ dependence of their ACh responses. All the mutations significantly reduced 2 mM Ca2+-induced increases in the 30 microM ACh response (P = 30 microM. Co-expression of the V262M mutation with a mutation (E180Q) that abolished Ca2+ potentiation resulted in 2 mM Ca2+ block, rather than potentiation, of the 30 microM ACh response, suggesting that the ADNFLE mutations reduce Ca2+ potentiation by enhancing Ca2+ block of the alpha4beta2 nAChR. Ca2+ modulation may prevent presynaptic alpha4beta2 nAChRs from overstimulating glutamate release at central excitatory synapses during bouts of synchronous, repetitive activity. Reducing the Ca2+ dependence of the ACh response could trigger seizures by increasing alpha4beta2-mediated glutamate release during such bouts.
CHOLEDOCHODUODENAL FLOW : EFFECT OF THE SPHINCTER OF ODDI IN OPOSSUMS AND CATS

The aim of this study was to test in vivo (a) whether the sphincter of Oddi acts as a resistor or also as a pump, (b) the effect of an IV infusion of cholecystokinin (CCK) on choledochoduodenal flow, and (c) the ability of the choledochoduodenal junction to prevent duodenobiliary reflux in two animal species, opossums (n = 11) and cats (n = 8). Opossums were implanted with bipolar electrodes on the sphincter of Oddi and the adjacent duodenum. Cats were not. Experiments were performed in vivo using a propulsion evaluation system to test whether the Sphincter of Oddi was able to pump fluid from the bile duct to the duodenum against pressure gradients. In 5 opossums and 4 cats, choledochoduodenal flow was evaluated during the IV infusion of CCK (20 ng.kg-1.min-1). The opossum sphincter of Oddi moved fluid against duodenal pressure gradients of 6-45 cm H2O. The spike-burst frequency (6.4 +/- 1.7 min-1) was maximal at peak bile duct pressures and decreased as bile duct pressure decreased (4.9 +/- 1.6 min-1; P less than 0.001). Pressure pulses in the bile duct were observed at a frequency that correlated with sphincter of Oddi spike-burst frequency (r = 0.84; P less than 0.001). In cats, choledochoduodenal flow occurred only along a hydrostatic gradient; the sphincter of Oddi never acted as a pump but only as a resistor. Infusion of CCk significantly increased the frequency of sphincter of Oddi contractions in opossums, but the transfer of fluid from bile duct to duodenum was significantly reduced. In cats, the rate of fluid flow from the bile duct to the duodenum during CCK infusion did not differ from control values. Reflux of duodenal fluid into the biliary tree was never observed, even at duodenal pressures as high as 100 cm H2O. In conclusion, in vivo, the sphincter of Oddi is able to pump fluid from the bile duct to the duodenum against a pressure gradient in opossums, but, in cats, choledochoduodenal flow requires a bilioduodenal pressure gradient. The increase in sphincter of Oddi contraction frequency induced by CCK in opossums resulted in a decrease in active transsphincteric flow. Duodenobiliary reflux could not be elicited in opossums and cats under the conditions of these experiments.
Akkadian Tablets in Minoan Dress

1. In the September number of ANTIQUITY (no. 123, pp. 124–130), I suggested that the language of Linear A was Semitic. I leaned toward narrowing down the probabilities to West Semitic, but indicated the possibility of East Semitic (= Akkadian or Assyro-Babylonian) too. The clue to the identification of the language proved to be ga-ba MAN 62 (= Akkadian gabba awilū 62) ‘ all the men = 62 ’ (p. 128, n. 14aa). Subsequently I observed that the regular Mycenaean Greek totalling formula (e.g. to-so MAN 17 ‘ so many men: 17 ’) was as exact an equivalent of my Akkadian reading as one could expect in so different an idiom. From that moment on I approached Linear A with Akkadian in mind.
Clinical Indications and Applications of Serum and Urine Protein Electrophoresis

This chapter reviews basic principles of electrophoresis, the types of apparatus that are available, quality control and quality assurance procedures, and costs involved with the procedure and provides a wide variety of patterns with recommended interpretations. Electrophoresis of serum and urine in the clinical laboratory takes advantage of the fact that each protein has its own unique structure. The first studies of serum protein electrophoresis were performed entirely in a fluid-based system devised by Arne Tiselius, winner of the 1948 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, called moving boundary electrophoresis. An early-morning void collected into a container without preservative is adequate for screening for the presence of monoclonal free light chains. Each protein electrophoresis gel should have an internal control sample run on it. The percentage of protein in each fraction should be recorded and compared day to day. Good quality assurance requires coordination of all available laboratory information for the patient. A file is set up for the patient the first time that an M protein is detected in the serum or in the urine. In patients with cirrhosis, synthesis of hepatocyte-derived proteins such as albumin and transferrin is decreased. In protein-losing enteropathy, damage to the gastrointestinal tract such as occurs in gluten-losing enteropathy (celiac disease), the serum demonstrates findings similar to those of the nephritic syndrome with hypoalbuminemia, hypogammaglobulinemia, and occasionally elevated levels of α2 macroglobulin. The urine immunofixation is compared to the urine protein electrophoresis to determine which band is the monoclonal free light chains (MFLC).
Drosophila hemocytes, phagocytosis, and croquemort, a macrophage receptor

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the origins and multiple functions of Drosophila hemocytes and discusses the role of croquemort as a macrophage (embryonic phagocytic hemocyte) receptor in phagocytosis of apoptotic cells during Drosophila embryogenesis. The conserved functions of blood cells in the fly are the phagocytosis of pathogens in innate immunity, as well as the phagocytosis of apoptotic cells during development. Although many phagocytic receptors have been characterized and studied in mammalian systems, many of the molecular mechanisms underlying each step of the phagocytic process remain unclear. The chapter characterized a new Drosophila macrophage receptor, croquemort, which is a member of the CD36 superfamily. Croquemort acts as a phagocytic receptor of apoptotic cells during Drosophila development. This indicates that Croquemort behaves as a functional analogue of various mammalian CD36 family members, which also participate in similar processes. It is believed that the study of this molecule in Drosophila will help to identify new molecules and unravel new pathways that are involved in both the terminal differentiation of macrophages and in phagocytosis. The identification of these molecules may reveal more similarities in the conserved mechanisms of hematopoiesis and phagocytosis in invertebrates and vertebrates.
Biomarkers of Insulin for the Diagnosis of Hyperinsulinemic Hypoglycemia in Infants and Children

Objective To evaluate thresholds of various biomarkers for defining excess insulin activity to recognize congenital hyperinsulinism. Study design This was a retrospective chart review of diagnostic fasting tests in children with ketotic hypoglycemia (n = 30) and genetically/pathology confirmed congenital hyperinsulinism (n = 28). Sensitivity and specificity for congenital hyperinsulinism were determined for plasma insulin, β-hydroxybutyrate, free fatty acids (FFA), C-peptide, insulin-like growth factor binding protein-1 (IGFBP-1), and the glycemic response to glucagon (through the glucagon stimulation test [GST]) at the time of hypoglycemia. Results Only 23 of the 28 subjects with congenital hyperinsulinism had detectable insulin (median, 6.7 μIU/mL), and insulin was undetectable in all subjects with ketotic hypoglycemia. Compared with ketotic hypoglycemia, subjects with congenital hyperinsulinism had higher GST values (57 vs 13 mg/dL; ΔGST ≥30 mg/dL in 24 of 27 subjects with congenital hyperinsulinism vs 0 of 30 subjects with ketotic hypoglycemia) and C-peptide levels (1.55 vs 0.11 ng/mL), with lower levels of FFA (0.82 vs 2.51 mM) and IGFBP-1 (59.5 vs 634 ng/mL). At the time of hypoglycemia, the upper limits of β-hydroxybutyrate and FFA in subjects with congenital hyperinsulinism were higher than reported previously (β-hydroxybutyrate Conclusion Because low or undetectable insulin level during hypoglycemia does not exclude the diagnosis of hyperinsulinism, C-peptide and IGFBP-1 may inform the diagnosis of congenital hyperinsulinism. In this group of children with well-defined congenital hyperinsulinism, thresholds for “suppressed” β-hydroxybutyrate and FFA are higher than previously reported levels.
Renin-Angiotensin Inhibitors Decrease Recurrence after Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor in Patients with Nonmuscle Invasive Bladder Cancer

Purpose: Prior reports suggest that renin-angiotensin system inhibition may decrease nonmuscle invasive bladder cancer recurrence. We evaluated whether angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blocker treatment at initial surgery was associated with decreased recurrence or progression in patients with nonmuscle invasive bladder cancer.Materials and Methods: Using an institutional bladder cancer database we identified 340 patients with data available on initial transurethral resection of bladder tumor. Progression was defined as an increase to stage T2. Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate associations with recurrence-free and progression-free survival.Results: Median patient age was 69.6 years. During a median followup of 3 years (IQR 1.3–6.1) 200 patients (59%) had recurrence and 14 (4.1%) had stage progression. Of those patients 143 were receiving angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blockers at the time of the first transurethral resection...
The System Al2O3-Cr2O3-Sio2

Liquidus phase equilibrium data are presented for the system Al2O3-Cr2O3-SiO2. The liquidus diagram is dominated by a large, high-temperature, two-liquid region overlying the primary phase field of corundum solid solution. Other important features are a narrow field for mullite solid solution, a very small cristobalite field, and a ternary eutectic at 1580°C. The eutectic liquid (6Al2O3-ICr2O3-93SiO2) coexists with a mullite solid solution (61Al2O3-10Cr2O3-29SiO2), a corundum solid solution (19Al2O3-81Cr2O3), and cristobalite (SO2). Diagrams are presented to show courses of fractional crystallization, courses of equilibrium crystallization, and phase relations on isothermal planes at 1800°, 1700°, and 1575°C. Tie lines were sketched to indicate the composition of coexisting mullite and corundum solid solution phases.
Nuclear data sheets for A = 93.

Abstract The 1960 version of the Nuclear Data Sheets for A = 93 has been revised on the basis of experimental data received prior to November 1, 1972. Information from approximately 180 papers and communications has been included in the present evaluation. Nine nuclei are known for A = 93. Only the presumed ground states and their half-lives have been established for 93Kr, 93Rb, and 93Sr, and only fragmentary information on their decay schemes is available. The Q-Value for 93Sr decay is not well determined experimentally. Decay studies and pick-up reactions have established a few low-lying levels in 93Y. Many spin assignments have been made for levels in 93Zr on the basis of decay studies, transfer reactions, and measurements on isobaric analog resonances in 93Nb. The decay schemes of long-lived 93Zr and 93Mo are still somewhat uncertain, since the existence of a decay on the 93Nb ground state is not well established for either nucleus. Furthermore, the half-life of 93Mo has not been directly measured. Low-lying levels in stable 93Nb have been extensively studied via β-decay, Coulomb excitation, neutron inelastic scattering and transfer reactions, and an appreciable number of spin assignments are firm. Extensive β-decay, γ-decay, transfer and charge-exchange reaction, and isobaric analog resonance measurements have led to many spin assignments for levels in 93Mo. The nucleus 93Tc has been studied via γ-decay and transfer reactions, but few spin assignments are firm. Recent measurements indicate the existence of two levels in 93Ru with approximately the same half-life, but the ordering of the levels and their decay properties is not well established. The well-established MA γ-decays of the first-excited states of 93Nb and 93Tc are found to have large enhancements of 13.2 and 26.7, respectively, the latter being the largest M4 enhancement known. The electron-capture decay of the first-excited state of 91Tc also is found to have an unusually low log ft of 4.2.
The utilization of microsomes in assessing the role of membrane bound ribosomes in protein synthesis

Abstract Microsomes isolated from developing seeds of Pisum sativum L. were functional in a wheat germ protein synthesis system. The addition of proteolytic enzymes to reaction mixtures driven by microsomes after in vitro synthesis revaled that polypeptide products were sequestered within the microsomes. It is suggested that the use of microsomes provides a method for conclusively assessing the role of membrane-bound ribosomes in the synthesis of cellular proteins. The technique will be of potential utility to studies aimed at establishing the site of synthesis of specific proteins and for investigators studying post-translational modification of proteins.
The One Room School House & Design Challenge Based Learning for design-oriented HCI education: Initial results, reflective hypotheses, & collaborative issues

This paper describes two different learning paradigms, namely One Room School House (ORSH) and Design Challenge Based Learning (DCBL). ORSH is targeted at teaching design-oriented HCI at combined undergraduate and graduate levels in small scale settings. DCBL is targeted at teaching design-oriented HCI to undergraduate and/or graduate levels in larger scale settings. The basic paradigms are described and the results of three years of student evaluations for these approaches are discussed with an eye towards construction of hypotheses about why the trends are as they are and how the paradigms may be improved and further evaluated going forward. The collaborative elements of the paradigms and certain classroom facilities in which these paradigms have been applied are also briefly described.
Image of Fomalhaut Dust Ring at 350 Microns: The Relative Column Density Map Shows Pericenter-Apocenter Asymmetry

We have imaged the circumstellar disk of Fomalhaut at 350 mm wavelength, using SHARC II (Submillimeter High Angular Resolution Camera II) at the Caltech Submillimeter Observatory. The spatial resolution of the raw images (9") has been enhanced by a factor of 3 using the HiRes deconvolution procedure. We find that at this wavelength and signal-to-noise ratio (approx.12), the observed morphology is that of a simple inclined ring (i approx. 70 deg), with little or no other apparent structure--this is the first observation that shows clearly the ring morphology of the disk. We have combined our 350 mm data with Spitzer Space Telescope images at 24, 70, and 160 mm in order to estimate the two-dimensional spatial variation of relative column density ("tau map") using our DISKFIT procedure. The tau map is based on the following physical assumptions: (1) the wavelength variation of opacity is the same throughout the disk, (2) the radial variation of dust temperature is dictated by the energy balance of individual grains in the stellar radiation field, and (3) the vertical scale height of the disk follows a power-law radial variation. The results confirm the ringlike morphology but also show that the geometric center is displaced from the star by about 8 AU and that the ring has an apocentric enhancement of approximately 14% in integrated column density. If we interpret the displacement in terms of elliptical orbital motion due to gravitational perturbation by an unseen planet, then the implied forced eccentricity is ~0.06; dynamical modeling then predicts an apocentric density enhancement consistent with that inferred from the tau map.
Zwergmutanten versprechen höhere Erträge für Mais und Hirse

Die „Grune Revolution” vor 50 Jahren brachte beeindruckende Ergebnisse aus der ersten zielgerichteten genetischen Kreuzungsstrategie der Geschichte: die neuen Sorten von Weizen und Reis verdoppelten teilweise den Ertrag pro Hektar. Die Analysen von Mais und Hirse klarten jetzt die molekulare Grundlage einer ahnlichen Mutation auf, so dass auch von diesen Pflanzen ertragreichere Sorten gezuchtet werden konnen.
Cytoablative therapy with combined resection and cryosurgery for limited bilobar hepatic colorectal metastases.

Background Cryosurgery can be employed in patients with unresectable hepatic metastases when the tumor size and the number of metastases are limited. However, local recurrence can result from incomplete ablation. We proposed a trial of complete cytoablation with a combined approach of cryosurgery and hepatic resection for patients with bilobar hepatic metastases. Methods Seven patients underwent cryosurgery alone (CRYO). Seven additional patients underwent combined resection and cryosurgery (CRYO+RES) for bilobar metastases. Results In the CRYO group, 5 of 7 patients had at least one centrally located tumor. All 5 of these patients had early recurrence at the site of ablation. In the CRYO+RES group complete ablation was achieved in 7 of 7. Two (28.6%) of these patients developed local recurrence. Conclusion Cytoablation of hepatic metastases can be safely achieved with combined hepatic resection and cryosurgery in selected patients. Long-term survival data are necessary before advocating widespread application of this approach.
ATS-6 Satellite-to-Satellite Tracking and Data Relay Experiments

Thr first radio tracking of one artificial satellite via another began on April 16, 1975. At that time the NASA Applications Technology Satellite6 (ATS-6) geostationary satellite began to relay both tracking and telemetry data from the near-Earth geodynamics satellite, Geos-3. This historic first was followed by the ATS-6 relay of data from the NASA weather satellite, Nimbus-6 launched on June 12, 1975. This paper presents the various experiment configurations, equipment descriptions, and results achieved to date with these satellite-to-satellite tracking and data relay experiments.
Analysis of Phase noise of RF signals in Analog Fiber Optic Systems

Stability of phase is a critical issue in several applications, especially those that require the transmission of reference signals. A fiber optic system is considered the best medium for the transmission of reference signals due to its high bandwidth, superior stability and immunity to external interference. Even in fiber optic links, phase stability becomes an issue as the microwave frequency of operation is increased. We quantify phase noise in an analog fiber optic system and also study the effect of optical amplification on the noise. The amplifier is placed at three different positions in the link, to check for significant variations in phase noise when no other link parameters are changed. The study also examines how phase noise is affected by changing transmitter power and wavelength. Experimental results indicate fluctuations in phase noise greater than 10dB for different transmitter power outputs while wavelength changes produce very little effect on the noise. Optical amplification increases the average phase noise by 3 to 6dB depending on the location of the amplifier in the link. In addition to experimental studies, computer simulations using virtual photonics (VPI) software are performed to confirm experimental results.
Compound-Specific Carbon Isotopic Analysis of Aroclors, Clophens, Kaneclors, and Phenoclors

Advances in instrumentation have allowed the measure ment of the isotopic composition of 13C/12C (δ13C) in the effluent of a gas chromatograph for each individual peak; this technique is called compound-specific isotope analysis (CSIA). CSIA has been used in a variety of biogeochemical studies to determine the sources of hydrocarbons. We have utilized the technique of CSIA to examine δ13C of the individual congeners in the polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) mixtures Aroclor 1242 and 1254; Clophen A30, A50, and T241; Kanechlor 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600; and Phenoclor DP-3, DP-4, DP-5, and DP-6. In addition, the bulk δ13C values (i.e., the entire mixture) were determined for comparison to the CSIA values. Bulk δ13C values ranged from −22.34‰ (Phenoclor DP-3) to −26.95‰ (Clophen A30). The analogues Aroclor 1254, Clophen A50, Kanechlor 500, and Phenoclor DP-5 had different bulk δ13C values. The bulk values fall within the CSIA values and are similar to the average of the δ13C values of the individual congeners....
A novel array chip to monitor in situ composite degradation using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy

Abstract Objectives This paper presents a novel array-chip technology used to monitor the physical properties of dental composites in situ . The DECAY chip ( D egradation via E lectro c hemical A rra y ) leverages microfabrication techniques to construct a uniform array of recessed wells that may be filled with dental restorative materials (e.g. composite or amalgam) and analyzed electrochemically in solution. Methods The array enables the uniform preparation of multiple specimens and reference controls on a common substrate, all of which may be simultaneously evaluated. The DECAY-chip presented here consists of a 3 × 3 array of 100 μm deep wells, and is used to monitor the degradation of a common dental composite as a function of time. Results The data correlate changes in the measured dielectric properties to surface and bulk changes as the composite is exposed to an ethanol:DI mixture (75% ethanol). A model for the system is presented, as are future plans to simplify the methodology for rapid materials screening and in vitro analyses. Significance This in situ diagnostic chip will enable evaluation of composite specimens, tested under a wide range of simulated oral environments. It may also serve as a screening platform for new composite formulations and aid in the study of materials degradation and failure mechanisms.
Transforming the CS classroom with studio-based learning

The studio-based learning (SBL) model aims to promote learning in a social and collaborative context by having learners construct, iteratively refine, and critically review design artifacts under the guidance of instructors and disciplinary experts. Recognizing the potential of SBL to foster the development of not only technical design skills, but also increasingly-coveted communication and collaboration skills, we have been adapting the approach for computing education, implementing it in various courses, and evaluating its impact over the past 5 years. This effort now involves 26 computing courses at 15 institutions in seven states. To our knowledge, this represents the most systematic implementation and evaluation of a pedagogy for computing education to date. This special session will introduce SBL to the SIGCSE community and facilitate a discussion and exchange of ideas. In addition to oral and poster presentations of the SBL model and its evaluation results, the session will feature "war stories" from teachers who have applied the model to their courses and hands-on activities to help attendees apply SBL to their courses.
Influence of stochastic forcing on ENSO prediction

[1] The basic philosophy behind data assimilation forecasting is that accurate knowledge of the initial conditions at the beginning of the forecast will produce reliable predictions. In this work we explore this idea under the assumption that El Nino–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) behaves as a stochastically forced phenomenon using the Kleeman intermediate model. This work provides a quantification of how the stochastic forcing (SF) is a limiting factor in increasing the predictability of ENSO via data assimilation in this intermediate model. Different cases are considered corresponding to the presence or absence of SF during different stages of the forecast process (i.e., assimilation and prediction or validation). Within each case, different strong-constraint assimilation methodologies are used. These methodologies show that better results can be obtained when information about the thermal structure of the upper ocean is considered and when interaction between the atmosphere and ocean is allowed in the assimilation process. Considering the best possible scenario, where observations of heat content are available at every grid point and time step, the presence of SF decreases the skill of the forecasts to about 12 months. This is similar to the skill reported by many operational and experimental seasonal prediction systems that use strong-constraint data assimilation. Therefore our results suggest that there is little room for improvement in forecast skill as a result of strong-constraint data assimilation.
Decreased effectiveness of GABA-mediated inhibition in the inferior colliculus of the genetically epilepsy-prone rat.

The inferior colliculus (IC) is a critical site for induction of audiogenic seizures in the genetically epilepsy-prone rat (GEPR). Abnormal response properties observed in inferior colliculus neurons of that strain include a high incidence of onset-offset responses which may be a form of afterdischarge. These response abnormalities may involve altered actions of neurotransmitters in that region of the brain. GABA is implicated as a transmitter in endogenous sound-induced inhibition in the inferior colliculus. Endogenous inhibition and the actions of agents that affect GABA receptors were examined in inferior colliculus neurons in epileptic and normal rats. The iontophoretic dose (current) of GABA required to suppress neuronal firing in the epilepsy-prone rat was significantly greater than that required in neurons of the normal rat. A form of endogenous (binaural) inhibition in inferior colliculus neurons, which is proposed to be GABA-mediated, was also significantly reduced in the epilepsy-prone rat as compared with the normal rat. A benzodiazepine (flurazepam) which enhances the action of GABA in many brain sites including the inferior colliculus was significantly less effective than normal when applied iontophoretically onto the same neurons of the epilepsy-prone rat. The GABAA antagonist, bicuculline, which blocks the effect of GABA on inferior colliculus neurons, frequently induced the onset-ofset response in neurons not previously exhibiting this pattern. These findings suggest that the reduction of GABA-mediated inhibition in the genetically epilepsy-prone rat may result in the increased incidence of afterdischarges in neurons of the inferior colliculus and may serve as an important mechanism of epileptogenesis in audiogenic seizures in this genetic form of epilepsy.
Hypotensive closed head injuries in children: Case report

Abstract The prehospital management of pediatric trauma patients requires unique knowledge and skills. Pediatric patients are not “little adults.” The head-injured, hypotensive pediatric patient is particularly challenging. That the flight crew be well-versed in the assessment and treatment options for this patient population is imperative. The functional outcome for these patients often depends on the early interventions provided in the field. The best way to reduce the level of anxiety experienced in dealing with pediatric patients is to increase the flight crew's knowledge level.
Overlapping expression of Runx1(Cbfa2) and Runx2(Cbfa1) transcription factors supports cooperative induction of skeletal development.

Identifying the genetic pathways that regulate skeletal development is necessary to correct a variety of cartilage and bone abnormalities. The Runx family of transcription factors play a fundamental role in organ development and cell differentiation. Initial studies have shown that both Runx1 and Runx2 are expressed in pre-chondrogenic mesenchyme of the developing embryo at E12.5. Abrogation of the Runx2 gene completely inhibits bone formation yet the cartilage anlagen in these mice is fully formed. In the present study, we hypothesized that Runx1 may compensate for the lack of Runx2 in vivo to induce the early stages of skeletal formation and development. Histologic β-gal stained sections using the Runx1+/−-Lac-Z mice demonstrate Runx1 promoter activity in pre-chondrocytic cell populations. In situ hybridization using Runx1 and Runx2 specific probes indicate that both factors are expressed in mesenchymal stem cell progenitors during early embryonic development. During later stages of mouse skeletal formation, Runx1 is excluded from the hypertrophic cartilage while Runx2 is present in these matured chondrocyte populations. Quantification of Runx expression by real time RT-PCR and Western blot analyses reveals that Runx1 and Runx2 are differentially modulated during embryogenesis suggesting a temporal role for each of these transcriptional regulators during skeletal formation. We provide evidence that haploinsufficiency results in normal appearing embryo skeletons of heterozygote Runx2 and Runx1 mutant mouse models; however, a delay in bone formation was identified in the calvarium. In summary, our results support a function for Runx1 and Runx2 during skeletal development with a possible role for Runx1 in mediating early events of endochondral and intramembranous bone formation, while Runx2 is a potent inducer of late stages of chondrocyte and osteoblast differentiation. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The combined incidence of taxes and public expenditures in the Philippines

Incidence studies of fiscal policy in developing countries typically examine either the distribution of tax burdens or the incidence of public expenditures. But the central issue for policymakers is the combined or net incidence of fiscal activities. One reason that combined incidence studies are so rare is that they require detailed data on both taxation and public spending. The authors show that the net incidence of fiscal policy in a country with average data - the Philippines - can be estimated using a variety of data sources and tools, using simplifying assumptions. For 20 years, the Philippine economy has experienced a series of balance of payments crises triggered by fiscal crises. It has had an unsatisfactory record of poverty alleviation. The authors examine net fiscal incidence to find out how poverty will be affected by the rise in taxes and the cut in spending. They found that: 1) the incidence pattern of taxes is basically neutral. Contrary to expectations, indirect taxes are only slightly regressive; and 2) it is the pattern of expenditures that drives the combined incidence, which is progressive.
Ceramics and Ceramic Composites: Opportunities and Cooperative Research Modes

Ceramics and ceramic composites are a rapidly evolving category of materials capable of being tailored to have unique combinations of electrical, optical, mechanical, and chemical properties that make them essential and irreplacable in many engineering applications. Conventional ceramics have both enabled and enhanced many important aspects of our modern technological society; the next generation of ceramics will play a further enabling role for still higher performance devices. A briefing panel of the National Academies of Science and Engineering recently identified four areas into which promising research areas for advanced ceramics can be grouped: 1. New thin films and layer structures with improved properties. 2. Exploration of completely new, multicomponent ceramic crystal structures and composites. 3. The mechanical behavior of ceramics and tough composites. 4. Ceramic processing of large parts and assemblies. Three mechanisms for achieving critical mass in ceramics research were recommended: 1. University/industry programs. 2. A summer institute. 3. A large interdisciplinary center.
Chiral discrimination in Langmuir monolayers of N-eicosanoylproline methyl ester

Abstract Monolayers of chiral (L) and of racemic N-eicosanoylproline methyl ester have been investigated using surface pressure isotherm measurements and Brewster angle microscopy. The surface pressure isotherms indicate differences between the chiral and racemic monolayers; however, the differences appear somewhat smaller than those previously observed for monolayers of other N-acylamino acids capable of amide amide hydrogen bonding. The surface pressure isotherms exhibit hysteresis during compression-expansion cycles. The domains formed on compression of both the racemic and chiral monolayers are small and irregular, in contrast to the dendritic or curved domains previously observed for monolayers of N-acylamino acids capable of amide amide hydrogen bonding.
Augmented autologous pericranium duraplasty in 100 posterior fossa surgeries--a retrospective case series.

Background Primary closure of the dura in posterior fossa (p-fossa) surgeries is technically difficult and usually requires the use of a dural substitute. A variety of substitutes are currently available and data suggest that autologous materials are preferred in comparison with nonautologous substitutes. Objective To report our experience using locally harvested autologous pericranium as a dural substitute in patients who underwent p-fossa surgeries. Methods Retrospective analysis of patients who had undergone p-fossa craniotomies between 2005 and 2011. All patients received locally harvested autologous pericranium for duraplasty augmented with a dural sealant. Data were reviewed for complications including: surgical site infection, meningitis, cerebrospinal fluid leak, the radiographic formation of a pseudomeningocele, and any new neurological symptoms related to the incision or repair. Results One hundred patients were identified. Indications for surgery included tumor, vascular lesions, or hemorrhage requiring surgical intervention, symptomatic Chiari I malformation, microvascular decompression for trigeminal neuralgia, and trauma requiring surgical decompression. The complication rate was 1% with 1 patient developing an nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug-induced aseptic meningitis and graft dehiscence requiring surgical revision. Conclusion Autologous pericranium with dural sealant augmentation is an effective way to repair the durotomy in p-fossa surgeries. To the best of our knowledge, this is currently the largest study using this technique in the adult neurosurgical literature. Our results report a much lower rate of complications in comparison with other duraplasty studies.
Shifts of finite type and Fibonacci Harps

Abstract We make an explicit connection between the Fibonacci Harp (or Fibonacci String) and two well-known dynamical systems: subshifts of finite type and the baker’s map on the unit interval. In particular, we show that the boundary of the Fibonacci Harp is an embedding of a commonly studied shift of finite type in the unit interval. Moreover, every shift of finite type embeds as the boundary of a lattice harp.
Different patterns of apoptosis of HL-60 cells induced by cycloheximide and camptothecin.

Cells of the human promyelocytic HL-60 line, when treated with a variety of antitumor agents in the presence of the protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide (CHX), or with CHX alone, rapidly undergo apoptosis ("active cell death"). It is presumed, therefore, that such cells are "primed" to apoptosis in that no new protein synthesis is required for induction of their death. We have studied apoptosis of HL-60 cells triggered by the DNA topoisomerase I inhibitor camptothecin (CAM) in the absence and presence of CHX and apoptosis induced by CHX alone. Two different flow cytometric methods were used, each allowing us to relate the apoptosis-associated DNA degradation to the cell cycle position. Apoptosis induced by CAM was limited to S phase cells, e.g., at a CAM concentration of 0.15 microM, nearly 90% of the S phase cells underwent apoptosis after 4 h. In contrast, apoptosis triggered by CHX was indiscriminate, affecting all phases of the cycle: approximately 40% of the cells from each phase the cycle underwent apoptosis at 5 microM CHX concentration. When CAM and CHX were added together, the pattern of apoptosis resembled that of cycloheximide alone, namely, cells in all phases of the cycle in similar proportion were affected. Thus, CHX, while itself inducing apoptosis of a fraction of cells, protected the S phase cells against apoptosis triggered by CAM. Because CHX (5 microM) did not significantly affect the rate of cell progression through S phase, the observed protective effect was most likely directly related to inhibition of protein synthesis, rather than to its possible indirect effect on DNA replication. Furthermore, whereas apoptosis (DNA degradation) triggered by CAM was prevented by the serine protease inhibitor N-tosyl-L-lysylchloromethyl ketone (TLCK), this process was actually potentiated by this inhibitor when induced by CHX. The present data indicate differences in mechanism of apoptosis triggered by CAM (and perhaps other antitumor drugs) as compared with CHX. Apoptosis caused by CHX may be unique in that it may not involve new protein synthesis. These data are compatible with the assumption that the loss of a hypothetical, rapidly turning over suppressor of apoptosis may be the trigger of apoptosis of HL-60 cells treated with CHX, whereas de novo protein synthesis is required when apoptosis is triggered by other agents.
The disappearance of infused amino acids from plasma of hospitalized control and Addisonian subjects.

THERE is considerable evidence that secretions of the adrenal cortex accelerate amino acid catabolism (1), although there is contrary evidence and opinion (2). Cagan, Grey and Jensen demonstrated that when adrenalectomized rats are given amino acids in the form of casein hydrolysate, the elevation in the blood amino-acid nitrogen is greater and more prolonged than that in normal animals (3). Engel showed decreased urea formation in nephrectomized adrenalectomized rats given amino acids in combination with glucose (4), and Parson demonstrated increased conversion of amino acids to urea in Cushing's syndrome (5). In an attempt to substantiate in human subjects the observations of Cagan, Grey and Jensen (3) and to determine, if possible, whether the abnormality was due to impaired renal function or to defective aminoacid catabolism, the following investigation was performed.
The Role of Norepinephrine in Differential Response to Stress in an Animal Model of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Background Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a prevalent psychiatric disorder precipitated by exposure to extreme traumatic stress. Yet, most individuals exposed to traumatic stress do not develop PTSD and may be considered psychologically resilient. The neural circuits involved in susceptibility or resiliency to PTSD remain unclear, but clinical evidence implicates changes in the noradrenergic system. Methods An animal model of PTSD called Traumatic Experience with Reminders of Stress (TERS) was developed by exposing C57BL/6 mice to a single shock (2 mA, 10 sec) followed by exposure to six contextual 1-minute reminders of the shock over a 25-day period. Acoustic startle response (ASR) testing before the shock and after the last reminder allowed experimenters to separate the shocked mice into two cohorts: mice that developed a greatly increased ASR (TERS-susceptible mice) and mice that did not (TERS-resilient mice). Results Aggressive and social behavioral correlates of PTSD increased in TERS-susceptible mice but not in TERS-resilient mice or control mice. Characterization of c-Fos expression in stress-related brain regions revealed that TERS-susceptible and TERS-resilient mice displayed divergent brain activation following swim stress compared with control mice. Pharmacological activation of noradrenergic inhibitory autoreceptors or blockade of postsynaptic α 1 -adrenoreceptors normalized ASR, aggression, and social interaction in TERS-susceptible mice. The TERS-resilient, but not TERS-susceptible, mice showed a trend toward decreased behavioral responsiveness to noradrenergic autoreceptor blockade compared with control mice. Conclusions These data implicate the noradrenergic system as a possible site of pathological and perhaps also adaptive plasticity in response to traumatic stress.