cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Tc, an unusual promoter element required for constitutive transcription of the yeast HIS3 gene

Tc is the proximal promoter element required for constitutive his3 transcription that occurs in the absence of the canonical TATA element (TR) and is initiated from the +1 site. The TC element, unlike TR, does not respond to transcriptional stimulation by the GCN4 or GAL4 activator protein. Analysis of deletion, substitution, and point mutations indicates that Tc mapped between nucleotides -54 and -83 and is a sequence-dependent element because it could not be functionally replaced by other DNA sequences. However, in contrast to the behavior of typical promoter elements, it was surprisingly difficult to eliminate Tc function by base pair substitutions. Of 15 derivatives averaging four substitutions in the Tc region and representing 40% of all possible single changes, only 1 inactivated the Tc element. Moreover, the phenotypes of mutant and hybrid elements indicated that inactivation of Tc required multiple changes. The spacing between Tc and the initiation region could be varied over a 30-base-pair range without significantly affecting the level of transcription from the +1 site. From these results, we consider it possible that Tc may not interact with TFIID or some other typical sequence-specific transcription factor, but instead might influence transcription, either directly or indirectly, by its DNA structure.
Kagome-Based High Authority Shape Morphing Structure

A concept for a high authority shape morphing plate is described and demonstrated. The design incorporates an active back-plane comprising a Kagome truss, capable of changing the shape of a solid face, connected to the back-plane by means of a tetrahedral truss core. The two shape deformations to be demonstrated consist of hinging and twisting. The design is performed by a combination of analytic estimation and numerical simulation, guided by previous assessments of the Kagome configuration. It is shown that, while the structure is capable of sustaining large passive loads at low weight, the demonstrable authority is actuator-limited. An optimization based on a genetic algorithm has been used to determine the best placement of a limited number of actuators in the structure for a given set of target shapes. The force capability of the actuators and failure threshold loads of the structure were ascertained in the optimization. Possible applications of such multi-shape morphing structures include ailerons and mirrors.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
INHALATION ANAESTHETICS DECREASE CALCIUM CONTENT OF CARDIAC SARCOPLASMIC RETICULUM

In a Langendorff perfused rat heart model, caffeine was shown to have a negative inotropic effect similar to that of inhalation anaesthetics. Both inhalation anaesthetics and caffeine decreased calcium content of left ventricular muscle as measured by atomic absorption spectroscopy. Halothane 2.8% decreased left ventricular pressure by 75.4 (SEM 4.4)% and decreased the calcium content by 30%. Enflurane 5.1% decreased the pressure by 72.4 (6.0)% and decreased calcium content by 31%. Both halothane and enflurane decreased the calcium content of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) as measured by caffeine-induced calcium release. There was a high degree of correlation between the negative inotropic effect of inhalation anaesthetics and the decrease in calcium content of the SR (r = 0.95 for halothane, r = 0.91 for enflurane). These data suggest that inhalation anaesthetics increase the calcium permeability of cardiac SR, thereby decreasing the calcium content of SR, resulting in the negative inotropic effect.
Ubiquitin immunoreactivity of paired helical filaments differs in Alzheimer's disease and corticobasal degeneration

To establish whether there is a relationship between ubiquitination and ultrastructural appearance of filaments, we compared the ubiquitin immunoreactivity of paired helical filaments (PHFs) in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and corticobasal degeneration (CBD). PHFs in these disorders share a limited similarity since filaments in CBD are wider and twisted at longer intervals than those in AD, and also display less ultrastructural stability. Preparations enriched in SDS-soluble filaments were isolated from AD and CBD brains and subjected to tau and ubiquitin immunogold labeling. Both preparations contained mostly dispersed individual PHFs, which labeled for the amino and carboxyl termini of tau. Immunolabeling of ubiquitin was variable, however, being more intense in AD than CBD samples. SDS-insoluble filaments were prepared from PHFs by boiling in the presence of SDS and 2-mercaptoethanol and collected by sedimentation. In both disorders, the pellets contained highly aggregated and bundled filaments, which were devoid of the amino but not the carboxyl terminal region of tau. Again, ubiquitin labeling was more intense in AD than CBD filaments. The present results suggest that ubiquitination has limited influence on SDS solubility, aggregation and bundling of PHFs; however, it may be one of the factors responsible for the ultrastructural variability and/or stability of filaments.
Domain definition and search techniques in meta-analyses of L2 research (Or why 18 meta-analyses of feedback have different results)

Applied linguists have turned increasingly in recent years to meta-analysis as the preferred means of synthesizing quantitative research. The first step in the meta-analytic process involves defini...
Can loss of apoptosis protect against cancer

Cells of higher organisms can commit suicide in response to genomic alterations, a process called programmed cell death. Although it is commonly thought that the loss of programmed cell death is required for carcinogenesis, we argue that the situation is more complex and that the loss of programmed cell death can have the converse effect, preventing cancer progression. If the death rate of cancer cells is low, fewer cell divisions are required for the tumor to reach a certain size, resulting in the presence of fewer mutant cells. Therefore, the chances of overcoming potential selective barriers are reduced, rendering the failure of pathogenic progression probable. However, if there is a higher cell death rate, more cell divisions need to occur for the tumor to reach a certain size, resulting in the presence of more mutant cells and in an increased probability of overcoming selective barriers and cancer progression.
Neural Networks for Computer Vision: A Framework for Specifications of a General Purpose Vision System

The development of autonomous land vehicles (ALV) capable of operating in an unconstrained environment has proven to be a formidable research effort. The unpredictability of events in such an environment calls for the design of a robust perceptual system, an impossible task requiring the programming of a system bases on the expectation of future, unconstrained events. Hence, the need for a "general purpose" machine vision system that is capable of perceiving and understanding images in an unconstrained environment in real-time. The research undertaken at the UCLA Machine Perception Laboratory addresses this need by focusing on two specific issues: 1) the long term goals for machine vision research as a joint effort between the neurosciences and computer science; and 2) a framework for evaluating progress in machine vision. In the past, vision research has been carried out independently within different fields including neurosciences, psychology, computer science, and electrical engineering. Our interdisciplinary approach to vision research is based on the rigorous combination of computational neuroscience, as derived from neurophysiology and neuropsychology, with computer science and electrical engineering. The primary motivation behind our approach is that the human visual system is the only existing example of a "general purpose" vision system and using a neurally based computing substrate, it can complete all necessary visual tasks in real-time.© (1989) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Isolation and characterization of bovine adenovirus type 5 associated with "weak calf syndrome".

An adenovirus isolated from a calf with clinical signs of polyarthritis or “weak calf syndrome” was characterized and identified as bovine adenovirus type 5. This is the first time this serotype has been described in the United States.
Saline compared to plasma volume replacement after volume depletion in sheep: Lung fluid balance

We bled anesthetized sheep until they were severely hypotensive, and immediately infused enough normal saline or autologous plasma to restore systemic blood pressure in order to define differences between the effects of crystalloid and colloid infusions on lung fluid balance. Forces favoring fluid filtration in the pulmonary microcirculation were highest just after the infusion period. Lung lymph flow tripled after saline but increased only 50% after plasma infusion. Lymph flow rate correlated well with the sum of Starling forces throughout the study whether saline or plasma was infused, and the relationship was similar to that when lung vascular pressures were mechanically elevated. Saline-resuscitated animals were the only ones to develop significant increases in postmortem wet-to-dry lung weight ratios (controls = 4.36 ± 0.05; saline = 4.86 ± 0.17, P P = NS). After volume depletion, saline eliminated the lymph-to-plasma oncotic pressure gradient while plasma helped to preserve it. Regardless of the type of fluid used to restore circulating volume, hydrostatic pressure was the major determinant of transvascular fluid filtration in the lungs. Lung lymph flow correlated more closely with forces affecting fluid filtration than with lung water content.
SU-GG-T-412: PyEGS5 - a Python Programming Interface for EGS5

INTRODUCTION: EGS5 is the state‐of‐the‐art implementation of the Electron Gamma Shower (EGS) Monte Carlo code system, which is written purely in Fortran language. The Fortran language is an efficient computer language for numerical calculation, however, it is much limited in functionalities like GUI, plotting. In order to make EGS5 an easy‐to‐use tool, a Python programming interface to EGS5 and a pythonic Monte Carlo simulation environment for radiation transport calculations has been developed, referred to as PyEGS5. METHOD AND MATERIALS: With binding to Python, PyEGS5 can be used in a scripting and interpreted way, while maintaining the efficiency of the Fortran binary code. As a powerful modern programming language, Python brings to EGS5 many advanced programming features and resources, with which users can create full‐featured Monte Carlo simulation applications with much less efforts than using Fortran language. RESULT: PyEGS5 is a very useful tool in medical physics research, fast‐prototyping of medical physics devices and teaching Monte Carlo simulation to medical physics students. PyEGS5 will be provided as an open source code to anybody who requires it, under the general GNU license (GNL). CONCLUSION: PyEGS5 provides the medical physics community with an easy‐to‐use programming interface to EGS5 code system which combines the advantages of the Python language and the Fortran language.
Patterns of illicit drug and alcohol use among secondary school students.

A questionnaire survey of drug practices and related behavior was conducted on 551 middle class, white, largely Jewish, urban adolescents attending private secondary schools. The incidence of illicit drug usage was 14 per cent, of alcohol 52 per cent, and of tobacco 18 per cent. Marihuana was smoked by 12 per cent and was the drug most commonly used. Fifty-nine per cent of users employed more than one illicit drug. A positive correlation was found between the use of alcohol and tobacco, alcohol and illicit drugs, and tobacco and illicit drugs. Drug usage correlated with male sex, older age, Protestant religion, poor school grades, lack of interest in higher education, high incidence of usage by friends and classmates, heterosexual activity, negative subjective mood, history of psychiatric difficulty, and history of difficulty with police. It appeared that illicit drug use in high-school students was associated with significant deviation from currently accepted norms of behavior and adjustment. Patterns of alcohol use were similar to patterns of illicit drug use except that factors reflecting intrapsychic difficulty showed a significant correlation with illicit drugs but not with alcohol.
The role of the T cell receptor in positive and negative selection of developing T cells

Although many combinations of alpha beta T cell receptors are available to the T cells in any given organism, far fewer are actually used by mature T cells. The combinations used are limited by two selective processes, positive selection of T cells bearing receptors that will be useful to the host, and clonal elimination or inactivation of T cells bearing receptors that will be damaging to the host. The ways in which these two apparently contradictory processes occur, and the hypotheses that have been suggested to reconcile them, are discussed.
An Empirical Model for Global Earthquake Fatality Estimation

Abstract We analyzed mortality rates of earthquakes worldwide and developed a country/region-specific empirical model for earthquake fatality estimation within the U.S. Geological Survey's Prompt Assessment of Global Earthquakes for Response (PAGER) system. The earthquake fatality rate is defined as total killed divided by total population exposed at specific shaking intensity level. The total fatalities for a given earthquake are estimated by multiplying the number of people exposed at each shaking intensity level by the fatality rates for that level and then summing them at all relevant shaking intensities. The fatality rate is expressed in terms of a two-parameter lognormal cumulative distribution function of shaking intensity. The parameters are obtained for each country or a region by minimizing the residual error in hindcasting the total shaking-related deaths from earthquakes recorded between 1973 and 2007. A new global regionalization scheme is used to combine the fatality data across different co...
Elastic–plastic contact analysis of an ellipsoid and a rigid flat

Abstract The work presents a finite element model (FEM) of the equivalent von-Mises stress and displacements that are formed for the different ellipticity contact of an ellipsoid with a rigid flat. The material is modeled as elastic perfectly plastic and follows the von-Mises yield criterion. The smaller the ellipticity of the ellipsoid is, the larger the depth of the first yield point from the ellipsoid tip happens. The FEM produces contours for the normalized normal and radial displacement as functions of the different interference depths. The evolution of plastic region in the asperity tip for a sphere (ke=1) and an ellipsoid with different ellipticities ( k e = 1 2 and 1 5 ) is shown with increasing interferences. It is interesting to note the behavior of the evolution of the plastic region in the ellipsoid tip for different ellipticities, ke, is different. The developments of the plastic region on the contact surface are shown in more details in Fig. 7 . When the dimensionless contact pressure is up to 2.5, the uniform contact pressure distribution is almost prevailing in the entire contact area. It can be observed clearly that the normalized contact pressure ascends slowly from the center to the edge of the contact area for a sphere (ke=1), almost has uniform distribution prevailing the entire contact area for an ellipsoid ( k e = 1 2 ) , and descends slowly from the center to the edge of the contact area for an ellipsoid ( k e = 1 5 ) .
Vascular insulin/insulin-like growth factor-1 resistance in female obese Zucker rats

Because insulin resistance/diabetes may cause inordinate vascular complications in females, we have investigated the effects of insulin and insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) on vascular reactivity in 12-week-old female Zucker obese (Ob) rats, a rodent model of insulin resistance and its lean (Ln) age-matched counterpart. Endothelium intact aortic rings from Ob animals and their Ln littermates (12 weeks of age) were subjected to contractile concentration responses to phenylephrine (PE) followed by relaxation to isoproterenol (Iso), with and without preincubation for 2 hours with cholera toxin (CTX; 1 microg/mL) or pertussis toxin (PTX; 2 microg/mL) and before and after incubation with either insulin or IGF-1 (100 nmol/L) for 1 hour. Systolic blood pressure was higher (138 +/- 3 v. 109 +/- 4 mm Hg; P <.0001) in the 12-week-old Ob rats. Contractile responses to PE were similar in both groups; however, both insulin and IGF-1 induced a paradoxical increase (P <.001) in contraction in Ob vasculature (929 +/- 92 v. 679 +/- 25 mg, respectively). CTX alone decreased contraction in the Ob (P <.02) and PTX in the Ln (P <.02), but there were no interactions between either IGF-1 or insulin and the toxins. Marked impairment of relaxation to Iso was seen in aortic rings of these female Ob rats (ED(50) = 2.6 micromol/L v. 418 nmol/L, P =.0002), an effect exacerbated by preincubation with either insulin or IGF-1 (P =.0001). Again, no role for G-proteins could be demonstrated. Insulin-dependent glucose uptake was severely impaired (P <.05) in aortic segments of the Ob insulin-resistant rats. Insulin receptor binding, tyrosine kinase activity (TKA), and abundance of several G-protein alpha subunits (inhibitory and stimulatory) in solubilized arterial membrane preparations (assessed by Western blot) were comparable in the 2 groups. These results indicate that resistance to the vascular actions of insulin/IGF-1 in female Ob rats is a postreceptor event that parallels glucose uptake resistance and is independent of G-proteins.
Understanding the impact of convergence on broadband industry regulation: A case study of the United States

Convergence is a dominant trend in the telecommunications and information industries, driven by the market demands for broadband service and promoted by competition and deregulation. This paper examines the impact of convergence in technology, business, and market on broadband services regulation by investigating the distinct features of the emerging broadband technologies and networks, comparing the differences between the narrowband network and broadband network in several dimensions, and elaborating on the implications of these differences for the regulation of the broadband services. It is argued that the advanced broadband networks, as a brand-new facility, should be treated differently in regulation compared to the existing narrowband telecom industry.
The influence of organizational tenure on safety climate strength: a first look

This study examined the relationship between the organizational tenure of employees at a given worksite and safety climate strength (i.e., the variability of employees' perceptions of the policies, procedures, and practices regarding workplace safety). Results revealed that average worksite tenure was related to safety climate strength such that higher average tenure was associated with stronger safety climates. The moderating effect of tenure level on the relationship between tenure and climate strength was also examined. Results revealed a curvilinear relationship between mean worksite tenure and safety climate strength, such that at higher levels of worksite tenure, smaller increases in the group's average tenure improved climate strength to a greater extent than at lower levels of worksite tenure.
Transvenous Physiological Pacing—A New Atrioventricular Electrode

Twenty-eight patients were paced physiologically by transvenous atrioventricular electrodes since 1968. Fourteen of the twenty-eight patients received the new modified atrioventricular electrode (Mark 11). Technical details of the electrode and recent modifications are elaborated. Pacing threshold characteristics, indications and method of introduction are discussed. (PACE, Vol. 5, March-April, 1982)
The free electron laser interaction with a short-Rayleigh-length optical mode

High-power, short-wavelength free electron lasers (FELs) can make use of a short-Rayleigh-length (SRL) optical mode in order to reduce the intensity on resonator mirrors. The conventional FEL interaction attempts to optimize the coupling between the electron beam and optical mode by minimizing the optical mode volume around the electron beam. In contrast, the SRL FEL focuses optical power in a small region of the undulator, which accelerates the electron bunching process. As a result, the fundamental FEL interaction is significantly altered with a rapidly changing optical field and phase along the undulator. Advantages and disadvantages of FELs designed with an SRL optical mode are discussed.
IMPROVED 2-YR OUTCOME OF PREMATURE INFANTS WITH MAJOR INTRAVENTRICULAR HEMORRHAGE

Portable cranial sonography was performed serially on 137 infants weighing 1750 or less at birth and admitted to the intensive care nursery from January 1980 to December 1981. Hemorrhage was graded by a modified Papile's classification with Grades I&II considered Minor and III&IV designated Major. Forty-nine infants were diagnosed with major IVH.
Evolution of Pineal Control of Endocrine Function in Lower Vertebrates

Pineal bodies, and other associated parietal structures, are remarkably varied among vertebrates These organs apparently assumed, in the primitive vertebrates, a principal role in integration of photic information. The pineal photoreceptor cell seems to have evolved into the secretory pinealocyte that is found in most of the higher vertebrates. Along with the evolution of the photoreceptor element into the pinealocyte, there is a concomitant shift in the neural connection of the pineal organ. The pinealo-fugal, sensory innervation gives way to an autonomic, pinealo-petal motor innervation. Thus, direct photosensitivity was superceded by indirect, optically-mediated control of the now secretory pineal gland. Even though pineal organs display such unusual plasticity and diversity across groups, responsivenses to light remains a constant feature. Photoperiod may modify the diurnallyrhythmic patterns of melatonin secretion across seasons and invoke appropriate “programs” which permit an animal to anticipate seasonal changes. Thus, melatonin may be a key molecule, attuned to photoperiodicity, which has been selected through evolution to effect adaptation to annual events.
A simplified digital method for predicting anesthetic uptake and distribution.

Abstract A simple, yet flexible and accurate method of calculating anesthetic uptake and distribution is presented. The basic program is described with modifications which allow calculations of anesthetic uptake and distribution under a wide variety of biological conditions. Data are included for making predictions of anesthetic uptake and distribution in man and also examples to illustrate some predictions which may be made.
A finite element-based methodology for inverse problem of determining contact forces using measured displacements

The identification of contact forces applied on a solid body or structure is a special case of a general class of inverse problems. This problem is very complicated, especially when there is insufficient boundary information in the region where the contact forces need to be identified. In this article, the unknown loads or contact forces are identified by minimizing the criterion function derived as the sum of squares of the differences between measurements and numerical results of the finite element method. A detailed description of the formulation, analysis and solution of the inverse problems are given. The Tikhonov–Phillips regularization technique is employed to reduce the noise in the measurements. Three examples are chosen to demonstrate the accuracy of the numerical algorithm.
Brittle–ductile transitions and the toughening mechanism in paraffin/organo-clay nanocomposites

Abstract Tensile properties for paraffin wax and a nanocomposite produced with 2 wt.% Cloisite ® 20A were measured within the temperature range of 10 to 30 °C. Young's modulus and maximum stress are significantly greater at 10 °C for the nanocomposite than those measured for the pure wax. Values for both materials decrease with increasing temperature and converge to where little difference exists as the wax enters a series of plastic crystalline states. Large enhancements in ductility for these nanocomposites reported previously are shown to be a consequence of a decrease in their brittle–ductile transition temperatures. Reduced crystallite size was observed via polarized optical microscopy for the nanocomposite and X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy demonstrate preferred alignments of wax lamellae and organo-clay platelets under strain. Results indicate that a combination of proximity to mesophases and influence of organo-clay on wax morphology and on the fracture mechanism account for the observed high ductility under ambient conditions.
Hormone effects on male sex behavior in adult South African clawed frogs, Xenopus laevis

Abstract Intact, adult male Xenopus laevis were injected with human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) and tested with intact HCG-primed females. Under these conditions, males displayed high levels of sex behavior (clasping of females). By 2 weeks after castration, these males had ceased clasping. Testosterone and dihydrotestosterone reinstated clasping in male castrates. Following removal of testosterone or dihydrotestosterone pellets, castrated males ceased to clasp. No male was ever observed to clasp following estradiol implanted in pellets or in silastic capsules. In experiments on castrated, adult, female Xenopus laevis , both testosterone and testosterone propionate pellets reliably produced male sex behavior in the form of clasping. The clasping of testosterone-implanted female and male castrates was very similar in form and duration. The behavioral effectiveness of testosterone in both sexes and the ineffectiveness of estradiol in eliciting clasping is paralleled by autoradiographic localization of sex steroids in brain where the distribution of testosterone-concentrating, cells is the same for males and females, but different from the distribution of estradiol-concentrating cells.
Continuous release of diazepam: Electrophysiological, biochemical and behavioral consequences

Neuronal GABAergic sensitivity was assessed using electrophysiological, biochemical and behavioral techniques following the continuous release and maintenance of relatively constant brain levels of diazepam for greater than or equal to 21 days. Our studies indicate that long-term exposure to diazepam results in: (1) a decrease in iontophoretic sensitivity to GABA in the dorsal raphe nucleus, (2) an increase in the affinity of the GABA recognition site in brain tissue and (3) an increase in susceptibility to bicuculline-induced seizures in the intact animal. Since the decrease in GABAergic responsiveness was observed in the presence of measurable levels of diazepam, it was concluded that this subsensitivity phenomenon is associated with tolerance and not with withdrawal effects of the benzodiazepines.
Unbalanced Operations of Three-Phase Machines with Damper Circuits

A study on unbalanced short circuits of three-phase machines with additional field circuits is discussed, and a detailed solution for the case of a double-line-to-ground short circuit of a salient-pole synchrenous machine is offered. By mathematical analysis, new and complete transient solutions for short-circuit currents, torque, and open-phase voltage are derived for ready uses.
Titanium Aryloxide Catalyzed Cross-Coupling and Oligomerization Reactions Involving 1,3-Cyclohexadiene, 1,3-Cyclooctadiene, and α-Olefins

The dimerization/oligomerization and cross coupling of 1,3-cyclohexadiene (1,3-CHD) with α-olefins can be achieved using a variety of titanium aryloxide catalysts. The titanabicyclic compound [Ti(OC6H3Ph4-2,3,5,6)2{CH2(C6H10)CH2}] initiates the rapid, non-Diels−Alder catalytic dimerization of 1,3-CHD to produce exclusively threo-5-(3-cyclohexenyl)-1,3-cyclohexadiene. Following dimerization of the majority of 1,3-cyclohexadiene into 8, the titanium catalyst then isomerizes (1,5-shift) 8 into 1-(3-cyclohexenyl)-1,3-cyclohexadiene 9 and eventually into a 70/30 mixture (GC analysis) of 9 and 2-(3-cyclohexenyl)-1,3-cyclohexadiene 10. Further cross coupling of dimers 8−10 with themselves and 1,3-CHD leads to trimers (C18 species) and tetramers (C24). This reaction can also be catalyzed by the dichlorides [Ti(OAr)2Cl2] (OAr = 2,6-diphenyl-, 2,3,5,6-tetraphenyl-, 2,6-diphenyl-3,5-dimethyl-, and 2,6-di-isopropyl-phenoxide) and [Cp(OAr)TiCl2] (OAr = 2,6-diphenyl-3,5-dimethyl-phenoxide) activated with 2 equiv of n-b...
Induction of high levels of anticardiolipin antibodies in mice by immunization with β2-glycoprotein I does not cause fetal death

Abstract OBJECTIVE: Our purpose was to determine whether anticardiolipin antibodies induced by immunization with β 2 -glycoprotein I cause fetal death in mice. STUDY DESIGN: Female BALB/c mice were immunized with β 2 -glycoprotein I in a carbohydrate adjuvant or with carbohydrate adjuvant alone. The mice were mated with BALB/c malee and killed on day 11 to 13 of pregnancy, and the fetal status was determined. Posttreatment blood samples were obtained for measurement of anticardiolipin and anti-β 2 -glycoprotein I antibodies and platlet counts. RESULTS: Anticardiolipin and anti-β 2 -glycoprotein I antibodies developed in all mice immunized with β 2 -glycoprotein I. Fetal death occurred in 17 of 145 gestational sacs (12%) in 18 mice immunized with β 2 -glycoprotein I compared with 24 of 177 (14%) sacs in 21 control mice. There were no morphometric or histologic differences between gestational tissues, and platelet counts were similar for each group. CONCLUSIONS: The induction of high levels of anticardiolipin antibodies in BALB/c mice by β 2 -glycoprotein I immunizations did not result in fetal death or thrombocytopenia. These nonpathogenic β 2 -glycoprotein I-induced anticardiolipin antibodies should prove useful in the characterization of clinically relevant epitopes for antiphospholipid syndrome.
Effects of representation on students solving physics problems: A fine-grained characterization

Recent papers document that student problem-solving competence varies (often strongly) with representational format, and that there are significant differences between the effects that traditional and reform-based instructional environments have on these competences [Kohl and Finkelstein, Phys. Rev. ST Phys. Educ. Res. 1, 010104 (2005); Kohl and Finkelstein, Phys. Rev. ST Phys. Educ. Res. 2, 010102 (2006)]. These studies focused on large-lecture introductory physics courses, and included aggregate data on student performance on quizzes and homeworks. In this paper, we complement previous papers with finer-grained in-depth problem-solving interviews. In 16 interviews of students drawn from these classes, we investigate in more detail how and when student problem-solving performance varies with problem representation (verbal, mathematical, graphical, or pictorial). We find that student strategy often varies with representation, and that in this environment students who show more strategy variation tend to perform more poorly. We also verify that student performance depends sensitively on the particular combination of representation, topic, and student prior knowledge. Finally, we confirm that students have generally robust opinions of their representational skills, and that these opinions correlate poorly with their actual performances.
Impact of dialysis modality on survival of new ESRD patients with congestive heart failure in the United States

Impact of dialysis modality on survival of new ESRD patients with congestive heart failure in the United States. Background It is hypothesized, but not proven, that peritoneal dialysis might be the optimal treatment for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients with established congestive heart failure (CHF) through better volume regulation compared with hemodialysis. Methods National incidence data on 107,922 new ESRD patients from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Medical Evidence Form were used to test the hypothesis that peritoneal dialysis was superior to hemodialysis in prolonging survival of patients with CHF. Nonproportional Cox regression models evaluated the relative hazard of death for patients with and without CHF by dialysis modality using primarily the intent-to-treat but also the as-treated approach. Diabetics and nondiabetics were analyzed separately. Results The overall prevalence of CHF was 33% at ESRD initiation. There were 27,149 deaths (25.2%), 5423 transplants (5%), and 3753 (3.5%) patients lost to follow-up over 2years. Adjusted mortality risks were significantly higher for patients with CHF treated with peritoneal dialysis than hemodialysis [diabetics, relative risk (RR) = 1.30, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.20 to 1.41; nondiabetics, RR=1.24, 95% CI 1.14 to 1.35]. Among patients without CHF, adjusted mortality risk were higher only for diabetic patients treated with peritoneal dialysis compared with hemodialysis (RR = 1.11, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.21) while nondiabetics had similar survival on peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis (RR = 0.97, 95% CI 0.91 to 1.04). Conclusion New ESRD patients with a clinical history of CHF experienced poorer survival when treated with peritoneal dialysis compared with hemodialysis. These data suggest that peritoneal dialysis may not be the optimal choice for new ESRD patients with CHF perhaps through impaired volume regulation and worsening cardiomyopathy.
Two-photon double ionization of H 2 in intense femtosecond laser pulses

Triple-differential cross sections for two-photon double ionization of molecular hydrogen are presented for a central photon energy of $30$ eV. The calculations are based on a fully ab initio, nonperturbative approach to the time-dependent Schr\"odinger equation in prolate spheroidal coordinates, discretized by a finite-element discrete-variable representation. The wave function is propagated in time for a few femtoseconds using the short, iterative Lanczos method to study the correlated response of the two photoelectrons to short, intense laser radiation. The current results often lie in between those of Colgan et al. [J. Phys. B 41, 121002 (2008)] and Morales et al. [J. Phys. B 42, 134013 (2009)]. However, we argue that these individual predictions should not be compared directly with each other, but preferably with experimental data generated under well-defined conditions.
Field Demonstration of Polyacrylamide in an Unlined Irrigation Canal

AbstractAlthough polyacrylamide (PAM) use for reducing soil erosion and increasing water retention is common in agriculture, research suggests PAM application may also be effective in reducing seepage in unlined irrigation canals. A polymer application test was conducted on a 457-m-long section of the Bordeaux lateral canal near Wheatland, Wyoming. Flow rating curves were developed by combining discharge and water level data, and the curves were used to convert real-time water level data into real-time discharge data. Falling head permeameters (FHP) provided a spatial method of quantifying seepage. Real-time stage discharge data showed a mean pretreatment flow loss over the entire test reach of 25.5–26.6 L/s, whereas the mean posttreatment loss was 30.9–31.2 L/s (α=0.05), which corresponds to a 21% increase in seepage. The FHP tests also showed an increase in seepage as a result of PAM treatment. On the basis of the results of this study, it appears that PAM and suspended sediment concentrations were to...
Is hypnotizability modifiable

Abstract This paper discusses a number of methodological problems raised by experimental attempts to modify hypnotic responsivity. In particular the criteria of modifiability, the issue of plateau susceptibility, and the special problem of demand characteristics as it exists for modification studies are discussed. Evidence that initial hypnotic susceptibility level may limit the degree to which hypnotizability may be modified (including the fiequent finding of high correlations between pre- and postmodification hypnotizability scores) is noted as a major paradox stemming from modification studies that requires greater attention. Until these methodological issues are treated more thoroughly than hitherto, claims for modifiability need to be treated with caution. Since hypnotic responsivity involves both aptitudinal and attitudinal components, future research in this field needs to develop strategies for determining the degree to which eachis altered by modification training procedures.
Nonlinear viscoelastic solids

An overview of constitutive equations and models for fracture and strength of nonlinear viscoelastic solids is given. Recent work is emphasized. Research needs are listed in the concluding section.
Reversible cardiac enlargement in a case of congenital cavernous hemangioma

Abstract 1. 1. Congenital hemangioma of the upper extremity has been added to the group of diseases which produce the condition known as “reversible heart.” 2. 2. In the case reported, definite cardiac enlargement had persisted for four years prior to amputation of the right arm and forearm for a cavernous hemangioma; after operation the cardiac dimensions returned to normal size. Twelve years later the heart again became enlarged, following a metastasis or activation of hemangiomatous “nests” in the right submammary region. Adequacy tests, however, revealed cardiac competency. 3. 3. The mechanism of the cardiac enlargement in this case is discussed, and the injury theory of Eyster is accepted as the underlying cause of the hypertrophy, just as it is the most reasonable explanation for the reversible cardiac enlargement associated with arteriovenous fistula.
Early Spring, Severe Frost Events, and Drought Induce Rapid Carbon Loss in High Elevation Meadows

By the end of the 20th century, the onset of spring in the Sierra Nevada mountain range of California has been occurring on average three weeks earlier than historic records. Superimposed on this trend is an increase in the presence of highly anomalous "extreme" years, where spring arrives either significantly late or early. The timing of the onset of continuous snowpack coupled to the date at which the snowmelt season is initiated play an important role in the development and sustainability of mountain ecosystems. In this study, we assess the impact of extreme winter precipitation variation on aboveground net primary productivity and soil respiration over three years (2011 to 2013). We found that the duration of snow cover, particularly the timing of the onset of a continuous snowpack and presence of early spring frost events contributed to a dramatic change in ecosystem processes. We found an average 100% increase in soil respiration in 2012 and 2103, compared to 2011, and an average 39% decline in aboveground net primary productivity observed over the same time period. The overall growing season length increased by 57 days in 2012 and 61 days in 2013. These results demonstrate the dependency of these keystone ecosystems on a stable climate and indicate that even small changes in climate can potentially alter their resiliency.
Network design for personal rapid transit under transit-oriented development

This study addresses guideway network design for personal rapid transit (PRT) favoring transit-oriented development. The guideway network design problem seeks to minimize both the guideway construction cost and users’ travel time. In particular, a set of optional points, known as Steiner points, are introduced in the graph to reduce the guideway length. The model is formulated as a combined Steiner and assignment problem, and a Lagrangian relaxation based solution algorithm is developed to solve the optimal solution. Numerical studies are carried on a real-sized network, and illustrate that the proposed model and solution algorithm can solve the PRT guideway network design problem effectively.
The dirty little truth: we want them to understand, but not really...

When it comes to disclosures of awkward matters in research, I do not think I have ever seen a disclosure worthy of the name. Disclosures about conflicts of interest, for instance, commonly read so...
Kinetics of enzymatic hydrolysis of lignocellulosic materials based on surface area of cellulose accessible to enzyme and enzyme adsorption on lignin and cellulose.

Comparison of the model with experimental data is currently in progress. It appears that more detailed studies of the adsorption dynamics, not just adsorption equilibrium, are needed.
The electrocardiogram in pulmonary stenosis with intact septa.

Abstract The electrocardiograms of 100 patients with pure pulmonary stenosis studied by right heart catheterization were reviewed. For analysis, the subjects were grouped according to the systolic pressure in the right ventricle. The majority of patients showed evidence of right ventricular hypertrophy, the frequency increasing with the severity of the stenosis. No diagnostic pattern was established. The severity of the stenosis and the height of systolic pressure in the right ventricle cannot be gauged in the individual patient by the character of the tracing.
Testing risk aversion and nonexpected utility theories

Abstract This paper tests risk aversion and compares several nonexpected utility theories using paired comparisons. Economic hypotheses associated with risk aversion are found not to hold in preference data. Expected utility with rank dependent probability is found to provide a smooth representation of preference for a wide range of preference types.
Gait performance in dementia: the effects of a 6-week resistance training program in an adult day-care setting.

Background Age-related declines in balance and muscle power are largely responsible for the changes in the various components of gait performance among elderly people. But these can often be remedied with strength training. People with cognitive impairment frequently demonstrate impaired gait, putting them at increased risks for falls and serious injury. Objectives This paper reports on the effects of a six-week pilot study of moderate intensity strength training on the gait of elderly individuals with dementia who attend a day-care center. Methods Twenty-six adults (23 female, three male), age = 79.2 ± 6.6 years, completed the study. Each subject completed a baseline assessment of lower extremity strength and gait. Gait was evaluated using free- and fast-gait speed over a 6-meter course, the Tinetti-Gait Assessment scale, the ‘Timed-Up-and-Go’, and the Gait Assessment Rating Scale (GARS). The intervention consisted of moderate-intensity progressive resistance lower extremity exercise using Theraband, for two to three sessions per week over the six weeks. Post-intervention assessment of strength and gait was repeated at the completion of the sixth week. Multiple paired t-tests were calculated for each outcome measure. Results The baseline assessment of gait suggests a high degree of frailty and risk for falls in the sample. Although post-intervention scores reflected improvement on all gait measures, the only statistically significant change observed was in fast-gait time. Conclusion A six-week resistance training program proved to be of insufficient duration, intensity or specificity to produce significant change in gait outcome measures, with the exception of fast speed gait. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Objective and Interpretive Approaches to Equality in Marriage

This article differentiates two ways of studying equality in marriage: as an objective entity or as a socially constructed interpretation. Objective and interpretive researchers adopt divergent stances toward defining, measuring, and explaining marital equalities and inequalities. However, they also employ similar terms and methods, as well as exhibit mutual concern over the moral implications of research. Consequently, scholars may study marital equality in somewhat similar ways but produce reports that vary along an objective–interpretive continuum.
Simultaneous Dual Frequency $^{1}{\rm H}$ and $^{19}{\rm F}$ Open Coil Imaging of Arthritic Rabbit Knee at 3T

The combination of sensitive magnetic resonance techniques with a selective site-targeted nanoparticle contrast agent has a demonstrated utility for molecular imaging studies. By detecting a unique signature of the contrast agent, this approach can be employed to identify specific bio-molecular markers and observe cellular-level processes within a large and complex organism (e.g., in vivo rabbit). The objective of the present investigation was to design, fabricate and characterize a radio-frequency (RF) coil for the dual frequency (1H and 19F) simultaneous collection of both nuclei images in a 3T field, in order to facilitate studies of arthritic knee degradation in rabbits. The coil supports both transmit and receive modes. The supporting activities included: 1) establishing a technical database for calculating the required coil parameters, 2) selection of a favorable coil geometry, and 3) adaption of existing RF measurement techniques to the design, development and electrical evaluation of the coil. The coil is used in conjunction with a Philips Medical Systems clinical MRI scanner, requiring all RF simultaneous dual frequency (1H and 19F) coils to operate in both transmit and receive modes. A commercial version of SPICE (simulation program with integrated circuit emphasis) was used to estimate significant operational parameters prior to fabricating the imaging coil. Excellent images were obtained with the fabricated coil and no operational problems were observed that would limit the use of other coil geometries and field strengths.
Morphological evidence for callosally projecting nonpyramidal neurons in rat visual cortex.

This investigation shows that some of the callosally projecting neurons in rat visual cortex are nonpyramidal cells. Callosally projecting neurons were labeled by injections of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) into the area 17/18 a border zone of the contralateral hemisphere. The retrogradely transported HRP was visualized with diaminobenzidine or with tetramethylbenzidine. In some of the labeled neurons the reaction product was diffuse, so that the neurons had a Golgi-like appearance, but in others the reaction product was granular, or punctate. The majority of neurons with a Golgi-like appearance were pyramidal cells, but one callosally projecting neuron from layer V area 18 a was confirmed by electron microscopy to be a nonpyramidal neuron. This dearth of well-filled nonpyramidal cells suggested that callosally projecting nonpyramidal neurons may not transport sufficient HRP to show Golgi-like filling, and so punctately labeled neurons from areas 17, 18 a and 18 b were examined. Reacted sections from areas 17, 18 a and 18 b of control animals, into which no tracer had been injected, were also examined, but in these control preparations no granules similar to the HRP granules within the neuronal profiles of the experimental animals were encountered. In methylene blue-stained 1-μm sections, neuronal profiles from the control animals possessed only blue staining lysosomes, while neuronal profiles from the experimental animals exhibited both lysosomes and HRP granules. It was determined, from the counts of HRP granules in neurons from the experimental animals, that in selected regions of areas 17, 18 a, and 18 b similar percentages of the pyramidal and nonpyramidal neuronal populations (ranging from 100% to 34%) contained HRP granules, and so had callosally projecting axons. However, most callosally projecting nonpyramidal neurons had far fewer HRP granules than the pyramidal neurons, again indicating that they transport less HRP. This could account for the fact that callosally projecting nonpyramidal neurons only rarely show a Golgi-like filling, and this could be one reason why such cells have been overlooked in most previous studies.