cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
DNA methyltransferase inhibition enhances apoptosis induced by histone deacetylase inhibitors

Histone acetylation has long been associated with transcriptional activation, whereas conversely, deacetylation of histones is associated with gene silencing and transcriptional repression. Here we report that inhibitors of histone deacetylase (HDAC), depsipeptide and trichostatin A, induce apoptotic cell death in human lung cancer cells as demonstrated by DNA flow cytometry and Western immunoblot to detect cleavage of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase. This HDAC inhibitorinduced apoptosis is greatly enhanced in the presence of the DNA methyltransferase inhibitor, 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine (DAC). The HDAC inhibitor-induced apoptosis appears to be p53 independent, because no change in apoptotic cell death was observed in H1299 cells that expressed exogenous wild-type p53 (H1299 cells express no endogenous p53 protein). To further investigate the mechanism of DAC-enhanced, HDAC inhibitor-induced apoptosis, we analyzed histone H3 and H4 acetylation by Western immunoblotting. Results showed that depsipeptide induced a dose-dependent acetylation of histones H3 and H4, which was greatly increased in DAC-pretreated cells. By analyzing the acetylation of specific lysine residues at the amino terminus of histone H4 (Ac-5, Ac-8, Ac-12, and Ac-16), we found that the enhancement of HDAC inhibitor-induced acetylation of histones in the DAC-pretreated cells was not lysine site specific. These results demonstrate that DNA methylation status is an important determinant of apoptotic susceptibility to HDAC inhibitors.
Judicially Re(De)Fining Software Patent Eligibility: A Survey of Post-Bilski Jurisprudence

On June 1, 2009, the United States Supreme Court granted certiorari to hear the landmark Bilski v. Kappos case. Awaiting the Supreme Court’s decision, some district courts have exercised restraint by delaying their ruling on patent eligibility issues until the perceived uncertainty clears. For instance, one court has explained that “[a]fter the Supreme Court issues its Bilski opinion, this Court will likely have clear direction on the precise standard to be applied in evaluating the patentability of method claims. With that guidance, the Court will be able to efficiently consider and evaluate [the accused infringer’s] argument that the [patent-at-issue] is invalid.” Lincoln Nat’l Life Ins. Co. v. Transamerica Fin. Life Ins. Co., No. 1:08-CV-135-JVB-RBC, 2010 WL 567993, at *1 (N.D. Ind. Feb. 12, 2010) (citing Arrivalstar S.S. v. Canadian Nat’l Ry. Co., No. 08 C 1086, 20008 WL 2940807, at *2 (N.D. Ill. July 25, 2008)). This may be a prudent course, as the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals even “recognize[d] that the Supreme Court may ultimately decide to alter or perhaps even set aside [the Bilski machine-or-transformation] test to accommodate emerging technologies.” In re Bilski, 545 F.3d 943, 956 (Fed. Cir. 2008) (en banc)However, other courts have interpreted the Federal Circuit’s guidance in a manner that, if adopted by more courts, could cause material invalidity challenges to many patents. See, e.g., CyberSource Corp. v. Retail Decisions, Inc., No. C 04-03268, 2009 WL 815448 (N.D. Cal. May 26, 2009); Every Penny Counts, Inc. v. Bank of America Corp., No. 2:07-cv-042, slip op. (M.D. Fla. May 27, 2009); DealerTrack, Inc. v. Huber, 657 F. Supp. 2d 1152, 1153 (C.D. Cal. July 7, 2009); see also Assoc. for Molecular Pathology v. USPTO, No. 09 Civ. 4515, 2010 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 30629 (S.D.N.Y. March 29, 2010). This paper briefly reviews the Federal Circuit’s In re Bilski decision and details the Federal Circuit’s and district courts’ responses to it.
Habit formation and lifetime portfolio selection

We solve for optimal consumption and portfolio rules in a discrete-time economy for an agent with long-memory habit. Our specification encompasses that in which the habit stock equals consumption in the previous period, as well as that of a constant subsistence level. We show important differences in the policies for the two special cases, and investigate the implications for life cycle portfolio choice. Our main finding is that habit formation can explain both hump-shaped and decreasing risky investment over the life cycle. Finally, we contrast the results of habit formation in discrete time and in continuous time.
Noise Equivalent Power of Background Limited Thermal Detectors at Submillimeter Wavelengths

With the advent of large submillimeter telescopes at high, dry sites, the atmospheric background noise in a moderate bandwidth can be low enough to challenge the ability of instrument designers to produce sufficiently low noise bolometers to be background limited. We compare the predictions for the noise power of a bolometer observing through an emissive atmosphere, considering the effect of atmospheric absorption, telescope optical efficiency, and detector optical efficiency, with measurements through the atmosphere over Mauna Kea.
Identification of uidA gene sequences in beta-D-glucuronidase-negative Escherichia coli.

Abstract A probe specific for the uidA gene of Escherichia coli hybridized with 112 of 116 E. coli isolates examined, including 31 beta-D-glucuronidase-negative and 12 enterohemorrhagic E. coli serotype O157:H7 isolates. Southern hybridizations confirmed the presence of a 900-bp HinfI fragment from the uidA gene in all isolates examined, suggesting that uidA gene sequences are present in most E. coli.
An algorithm for integrated pin assignment and buffer planning

The buffer block methodology has become increasingly popular as more and more buffers are needed in deep-submicron design, and it leads to many challenging problems in physical design. In this article, we present a polynomial-time exact algorithm for integrated pin assignment and buffer planning for all two-pin nets from one macro block (source block) to all other blocks of a given buffer block plan, while minimizing the total cost α d W p β d R for any positive α and β where W is the total wirelength, and R is the number of buffers. By applying this algorithm iteratively (each time, pick one block as the source block), it provides a polynomial-time algorithm for pin assignment and buffer planning for nets among multiple macro blocks. Experimental results demonstrate its efficiency and effectiveness.
Interaction of ocean-atmosphere with planetary interior

Abstract All current models of formation of the Earth allow the occlusion of volatiles in the inner core but suggest their efficient removal from the accreting solids at formation of the outer core and the mantle. Analyses of upper mantle materials support this interpretation and indicate that the primitive mantle has an exceedingly low content of water and halogens compared to saturation in thermodynamic equilibrium. The volatiles emanating at the Earth's surface result from impregnation of the crust by the atmosphere and hydrosphere which seem to be as old as the planet. The progressive contamination of the upper mantle by the crust leads to a continuous net loss of oxygen to the interior of the Earth, which appears as a sink, not a source of volatiles.
Effector activity of peanut allergens: a critical role for Ara h 2, Ara h 6, and their variants.

RATIONALE An important property of allergens is their ability to cross-link IgE and activate mast cells and basophils. The effector activity of peanut allergens has not been well characterized. METHODS Crude extracts of fresh peanut flour were fractionated by gel filtration. Effector function was assayed by measuring degranulation of RBL SX-38 cells sensitized with IgE from individual sera and from pools of sera of peanut-allergic donors. RESULTS Following gel filtration, 75 +/- 7% of the applied protein and 76 +/- 16% (n=3) of the applied activity (assayed with a pool of 11 sera) were recovered in the resultant fractions. The majority (85 +/- 2%; n=3) of the recovered activity resided in a fraction with a theoretical average molecular weight of approximately 20 kDa and a range of 13-25 kDa. When all the individual fractions were recombined, the measured activity was similar to that of the original extract [140 +/- 43% when measured with a pool of serum (n=2) and 66 +/- 7% when measured with individual sera (n=4)]; when all individual fractions excluding the 20 kDa fraction were recombined, the measured activity was only 8 +/- 2% (n=2) of the original extract when assayed with the serum pool and 10 +/- 4% (n=3) when assayed with the individual sera. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis of this biologically active fraction revealed >60 protein spots. Analysis of 50 of the most prominent spots by matrix-assisted laser-desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry and of the full mixture by automated tandem mass spectrometry coupled to online capillary liquid chromatography revealed that >97% of the protein mass consisted of Ara h 2.0101, Ara h 2.0201, Ara h 6 isoforms, and variants of these proteins. CONCLUSIONS Ara h 2 and Ara h 6 account for the majority of the effector activity found in a crude peanut extract.
Effects of perchlorate on earthworm (Eisenia fetida) survival and reproductive success.

Abstract The effects of perchlorate on earthworm, Eisenia fetida, survival and reproductive success were evaluated using three types of tests: dermal contact (filter paper), sand, and artificial soil. All studies utilized a range of perchlorate concentrations in order to simulate levels that are likely to occur in the environment under different scenarios (typical soil levels vs. spill levels). The OECD filter paper contact test involved exposing earthworms to the test compound on moist filter paper for 14 days to evaluate earthworm survival under a worst-case dermal exposure scenario. A similar test involved exposing the earthworms to perchlorate-contaminated sand, where earthworm survival decreased as concentration of perchlorate increased, with no worms surviving 14 days at the highest treatment concentrations (> 2000 μg/g). However, the perchlorate concentrations that affected the survival of E. fetida are likely to occur only under extreme conditions (e.g. spills). The effect of perchlorate on the reproductive success (cocoon production) of E. fetida over a 4-week test period in artificial soil and a 3-week test period in sand was also examined. Production of cocoons was observed in soil containing up to 100 μg/g perchlorate, with no production in the uppermost treatment groups (1000 μg/g). Cocoon production was highest in the control group, although overall cocoon production appeared to be low. In contrast to the acute toxicity tests, perchlorate did affect earthworm reproduction at environmentally relevant soil concentrations. In addition, preliminary data suggest that cocoons produced under perchlorate contamination did not hatch as well as cocoons produced in control soil despite incubation of both sets of cocoons in clean soil or sand.
Incidence and predictors of neuropathic pain following breast surgery.

Purpose Neuropathic pain (NPP) following breast surgery extends morbidity in the postoperative period. The incidence and etiology of postoperative NPP remains unclear and under-reported in literature. This study aims to define the incidence of neuropathic pain following breast surgery and to identify patient characteristics that are predictors for developing postoperative NPP.
Regulation of 5-HT1A receptor-stimulated [35S]-GTPγS binding as measured by quantitative autoradiography following chronic agonist administration

Because changes 5-HT1A receptor number do not occur following repeated agonist treatment, we hypothesized that the basis for 5-HT1A receptor desensitization involves changes in receptor-G protein coupling. We measured the effect of repeated agonist administration on 5-HT1A receptor-stimulated [35S]-GTPγS binding in forebrain areas, (i.e. anterior cingulate cortex, lateral septum, hippocampus, entorhinal cortex), and serotonergic cell body areas, the dorsal and median raphe nuclei. Following treatment of rats with (±)8-OH-DPAT (1 mg kg−1, s.c.) for 7 or 14 days, 5-HT1A receptor-stimulated [35S]-GTPγS binding was significantly attenuated in both the dorsal and median raphe nuclei. 5-HT1A receptor-stimulated [35S]-GTPγS binding was significantly attenuated in the CA1 region of the hippocampus after 7, but not 14 days of 8-OH-DPAT administration. 5-HT1A receptor-stimulated [35S]-GTPγS binding was not altered in other forebrain areas examined. The binding of [3H]-MPPF to 5-HT1A receptor sites was not altered in any brain region examined following repeated agonist administration, suggesting that the observed changes in (±)8-OH-DPAT-stimulated [35S]-GTPγS binding were not due to changes in 5-HT1A receptor number. Our data indicate that in serotonergic cell body areas the regulation of presynaptic 5-HT1A receptor function following repeated agonist administration occurs at the level of receptor-G protein interaction. In forebrain areas, however, the regulation of postsynaptic 5-HT1A receptor sensitivity appears not to be at the level of receptor-G protein coupling. British Journal of Pharmacology (2001) 132, 605–611; doi:10.1038/sj.bjp.0703855
High-performance liquid chromatographic quantitation of rhodamines 123 and 110 from tissues and cultured cells

Abstract Rhodamine 123 is a fluorescent vital dye which has potential for therapeutic use in cancer treatment. The dye concentrates in mitochondria of normal and neoplastic cells but accumulates in and is toxic to neoplastic cells. When dye-treated cells are irradiated with blue laser light at 514 nm, mitochondrial injury or cell death results. Rhodamine concentration in cultured cells and tumor tissue was quantitated to correlate cell or tumor death with drug dose. A reversed-phase separation of rhodamine 123 was accomplished using a gradient of 0.05 M phosphate buffer pH 2.85 (mobile phase A) and acetonitrile (mobile phase B), 10–80% B in 15 min with a DuPont Golden Series C 8 column. Effluent was monitored with a fluorescence detector at 295 nm excitation and 520 nm emission. Stock rhodamine 123 contained approximately 6–8% of rhodamine 110, the parent compound, which eluted at 9.8 min whereas rhodamine 123 eluted at 11.7 min. Structural verification of both compounds by field desorption mass spectrometry was performed. This is the first report of the chemical separation and quantitation of rhodamine 123 from cultured tumor cells or tumor tissue.
Cardiac function and heart failure.

A total of 811 abstracts were submitted in the area of Cardiac Function and Heart Failure. These are shown by sub-topic in [Figure 1][1].Each abstract was evaluated by 5 to 7 reviewers, 281 were selected for presentation, and 19 are highlighted in the following review. The committee members for
Towards energy proportionality in web systems

Green computing is a topic that receives a great amount of interests in the past few years. Energy proportionality is a principal of ensuring energy consumption is proportional to the system workload. Energy proportional design can effectively improve energy efficiency in computing systems. In this paper, we present an energy proportional model based on queuing theory and service differentiation in server clusters. The presented scheme provides controllable and predictable quantitative control of power consumption with theoretically guaranteed service performance. The preliminary simulation results indicate the effectiveness and limitations of the energy proportional model under different workloads and energy consumption curves. The most interesting finding in this paper is the trade-off between energy and performance in cluster systems.
Minority Carrier Lifetime Analysis in the Bulk of Thin-Film Absorbers Using Subbandgap (Two-Photon) Excitation

We describe a new time-resolved photoluminescence (TRPL) analysis method for the determination of minority carrier lifetime τB. This analysis is based on subbandgap excitation (two-photon excitation, or 2PE) and allows selective lifetime determination at the surface or in the bulk of semiconductor absorbers. We show that for single-crystal CdTe, τB could be determined even if surface recombination velocity is >105 cm s-1. Two-photon excitation TRPL measurements indicate that radiative lifetime in undoped CdTe is >>66 ns. We also compare one-photon excitation (1PE) and 2PE TRPL data for polycrystalline CdS/CdTe thin films.
Applying genetic algorithms to decision making in autonomic computing systems

Increasingly, applications need to be able to self-reconfigure in response to changing requirements and environmental conditions. Autonomic computing has been proposed as a means for automating software maintenance tasks. As the complexity of adaptive and autonomic systems grows, designing and managing the set of reconfiguration rules becomes increasingly challenging and may produce inconsistencies. This paper proposes an approach to leverage genetic algorithms in the decision-making process of an autonomic system. This approach enables a system to dynamically evolve reconfiguration plans at run time in response to changing requirements and environmental conditions. A key feature of this approach is incorporating system and environmental monitoring information into the genetic algorithm such that specific changes in the environment automatically drive the evolutionary process towards new viable solutions. We have applied this genetic-algorithm based approach to the dynamic reconfiguration of a collection of remote data mirrors, with the goal of minimizing costs while maximizing data reliability and network performance, even in the presence of link failures.
A renaissance of “biochemical genetics”? SNPs, haplotypes, function, and complex diseases

We have made remarkable progress in understanding the molecular bases of many Mendelian diseases over the past 2-3 decades. The current interest in discovering the molecular basis of complex diseases uses either linkage or candidate gene approaches. The latter often uses case/control (or case/cohort) study designs. We believe it is critically important to have a thorough understanding of SNP (single nucleotide) and haplotype function in such endeavors. Functionally neutral SNPs and haplotypes are probably best suited for linkage studies (far away from the locus of interest). Functionally relevant SNPs and haplotypes seem best suited for candidate gene approaches. The need for functional data may result in a renaissance of biochemical genetics with a new twist in the genomic era. We propose that the functional characterization of SNPs and haplotypes be advanced with great vigor for those genes with defined assayable phenotypes. These systematic investigations will involve classical biochemistry, modern genetics, and genomics and will probably also draw on newer technologies such as microarrays. In short, a renaissance of biochemical genetics will advance our understanding of complex diseases.
Obesity and onset of depression among U.S. middle-aged and older adults.

Abstract Objectives This paper aims to examine the relationship between obesity and onset of depression among U.S. middle-aged and older adults. Methods Data came from 1994 to 2010 waves of the Health and Retirement Study. Study sample consisted of 6514 community-dwelling adults born between 1931 and 1941 who were free of clinically relevant depressive symptoms in 1994. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated from self-reported height/weight. Body weight status was classified into normal weight (18.5 kg/m 2 ≤ BMI 2 ), overweight (25 kg/m 2 ≤ BMI 2 ), and obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m 2 ). A score of ≥ 3 on the 8-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale was used to define clinically relevant depressive symptoms. Kaplan–Meier estimator and time-dependent Cox proportional hazards model were performed to examine the association between body weight status and onset of clinically relevant depressive symptoms. Results Unhealthy body weight was associated future onset of depression. Compared with their normal weight counterparts, overweight and obese participants were 13% (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.13, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.04–1.23) and 9% (HR = 1.09, 95% CI = 1.01–1.18) more likely to have onset of clinically relevant depressive symptoms during the 16 years of follow-up, respectively. The relationship between obesity and depression onset appeared stronger among females and non-Hispanic whites than their male and racial/ethnic minority counterparts. Conclusions Health care providers should be aware of the potential risk for depression among obese older adults.
The Declining Significance of Gender? - Edited by Francine D. Blau, Mary Brinton, & David B. Grunsky

The Declining Significance of Gender? Francine D. Blau, Mary Brinton, & David B. Grunsky (Eds.). New York: The Russell Sage Foundation. 2006. 296 pp. ISBN 0-87154092-4. $39.95 (hardback). This new collection assesses the degree to which the United States has experienced changes in the ideas and experience of gender inequality. Drawing on original work by scholars in a range of social science disciplines (primarily economists and sociologists), the book is intended to explore the overall status and prospects for gender equity. It is organized into three sections: an introduction in which the editors provide a theoretical and conceptual overview that frames the remainder of the book, a set of five substantive chapters addressing change and persistence in dimensions of gender inequality, and three concluding chapters in which alternate visions of the future of gender inequality are proposed. In introducing the book (which began as a lecture series at Cornell University), the editors propose the ambitious goal of moving beyond narrow disciplinary foci to a comprehensive assessment of what we know to be trends in gender inequality and where scholarship suggests significant inequality still remains. Conceptually, the editors offer a matrix for assessing these changes across what they identify as proximate and distal mechanisms that generate and sustain gender inequality. Four macrolevel forces are identified as the context within which more proximate causes of gender inequality operate. These macrolevel forces are economics; organizational logics around hiring, promotion, and bureaucracy; political movements and activities; and culture. The more proximate causes of persistent inequality, they argue, include discrimination, intemalization of preferences and identity, labor force commitment, cultural devaluation of women, and expectations of discrimination or sanctions. Their concern with much previous research is that scholars tend to focus on a narrow range of proximate causes, without addressing either the interplay of these domains or their relationship to four theoretical narratives emphasizing economic, organizational, political, and cultural explanations for inequality. Part II consists of a set of chapters in which rigorous statistical analyses demonstrate the contours of the history and status of gender inequality. Most rely on rational choice or economic models of behavior (or both) based on self-interest and market efficiency as the explanatory narrative around which gender inequality is understood having declined, yet not disappeared. …
Principal engineering design questions

The definition of principal questions is key to providing a common direction in the developing field of engineering design research. A general engineering framework can be utilized to identify these principal questions. This general framework rigorously defines variables and indicates relationships among the fundamental engineering variables of geometric form, material form, performance, behavior, environmental constraints, environmental conditions, space, and time. A number of questions arise as to how fundamental variables are defined and how the variables will be given value. Example lists of definition and value questions are presented. The number of questions and variables are tracked and the engineering problem degrees of freedom are measured. Input information from the engineer, in the form of four relationship types, is required for the solution of the engineering problem. The framework is domain independent and can be used to organize engineering design methods, design research, and curricula.
Epicardial activation and repolarization patterns in patients with right ventricular hypertrophy

To map global epicardial repolarization patterns and test the "SI" model of T wave generation, the patterns of epicardial activation and repolarization in patients with chronic pulmonary thromboembolism and right ventricular hypertrophy were studied by computerized mapping techniques and monophasic action potential (MAP) recording. The ventricular activation patterns were characterized by delayed right ventricular activation and the absence of normal early epicardial ventricular breakthrough in some cases. The repolarization patterns were characterized by nonuniform distribution of T wave morphologies. The T waves were predominantly positive over the left ventricular epicardium and negative or biphasic over the right ventricular epicardium. The activation-recovery (A-R) intervals were measured from the local activation to the maximal dV/dt of the upstroke of the T waves (Wyatt method). The difference between the A-R intervals and the MAP from onset of activation to 90% repolarization (MAP90) varies according to T wave morphology and could be as high as 96 msec with positive T waves, despite significant correlations (r = 0.56-0.90) between MAP90 and A-R intervals for each morphology. Better overall correlations were found if the minimal dV/dt on the downslope of the positive T waves was chosen to estimate the time of local repolarization (alternative method). Using this method, the mean A-R intervals were the same over the right and left ventricles. Cardiopulmonary bypass significantly prolonged the action potential duration equally at all parts of the epicardium. We conclude that in patients with right ventricular hypertrophy, the time of local repolarization can be estimated by our alternative method; the right ventricle completes activation and repolarization later than the left ventricle, and the distribution of T wave morphologies is nonuniform, with predominantly positive T waves observed over the left ventricle and negative or biphasic T waves observed over the right ventricle. These findings are compatible with the SI model of the generation of T waves.
Yields of short-lived fission products produced following 235 U ( n th , f )

Measurements of gamma-ray spectra, following the thermal neutron fission of {sup 235}U have been made using a high purity germanium detector at the University of Massachusetts Lowell (UML) Van de Graaff facility. The gamma spectra were measured at delay times ranging from 0.2 s to nearly 10thinsp000 s following the rapid transfer of the fission fragments with a helium-jet system. On the basis of the known gamma transitions, forty isotopes have been identified and studied. By measuring the relative intensities of these transitions, the relative yields of the various precursor nuclides have been calculated. The results are compared with the recommended values listed in the ENDF/B-VI fission product data base (for the lifetimes and the relative yields) and those published in the Nuclear Data Sheets (for the beta branching ratios). This information is particularly useful for the cases of short-lived fission products with lifetimes of the order of fractions of a second or a few seconds. Independent yields of many of these isotopes have rather large uncertainties, some of which have been reduced by the present study. {copyright} {ital 1998} {ital The American Physical Society}
Porous organic molecular materials

Most nanoporous materials with molecular-scale pores are composed of directional covalent or coordination bonds, such as porous metal–organic frameworks and organic network polymers. By contrast, nanoporous materials comprised of discrete organic molecules, between which there are only weak non-covalent interactions, are seldom encountered. Indeed, the majority of organic molecules pack efficiently in the solid state to minimize the void volume, leading to nonporous materials. In recent years, a large number of nanoporous organic molecular materials (crystalline or amorphous) were discovered and their porosity was confirmed by gas adsorption. All of these materials were compiled in this highlight. In addition, advantages of porous organic molecular materials over porous networks are discussed.
Mothers of molested children: some comparisons of personality characteristics

The Clinical Analysis Questionnaire (CAQ) was used to study the personality characteristics of three groups of mothers: one whose children had been molested by a family member (n = 13), a second group whose children had been molested by a teacher (n = 15), and a group of control mothers whose children had not been molested (n = 12). There were few disparities between the two groups of mothers of molested children. When the molested groups were combined and compared to controls, they differed on only one scale measuring normal personality functioning. Significant differences between mothers of molested children and control mothers were found on 7 of the 12 scales measuring abnormal functioning. In addition, significant correlations were obtained between mother's scores and children's scores on the Adjustment scale of the Personality Inventory for Children (PIC). Results were discussed in terms of the lack of differences between the two molested groups, the role of mothers in sexual abuse, and the relationship of maternal clinical symptoms to child maladjustment.
Neural Mechanisms of Hearing in Fishes

Our understanding of the sense of hearing in fishes has been greatly enhanced in recent years. This chapter selectively reviews important findings of neural mechanisms of hearing in fishes including both hearing specialists and generalists. It first introduces basic knowledge of physical properties of underwater sounds and structure of fish’s auditory organs, and then describes sound detection pathways in different fish species. Major auditory nuclei and their connections that are involved in central auditory processing are also included. Research on fish hearing has previously focused on neural representation of simple sounds, with the majority of studies done on a few species, particularly the goldfish (Carassius auratus). This review summarizes transformations of temporal response patterns and changes of frequency selectivity at several levels of the goldfish’s auditory pathway. Recent studies of auditory research in fishes have aimed at the understanding of neural coding of biologically relevant sounds such as those produced by fishes themselves. Males of the mormyrid Pollimyrus adspersus and midshipman Porichthys notatus, two of many vocalizing fishes, produce species-specific sounds for acoustic communication during courtship behavior. Although we do not fully understand how the communication sounds are processed in the brains of these species, some experimental evidence has begun to uncover mechanisms of neural coding of acoustic signals that resemble their courtship sounds. At the end of the chapter, hypotheses and experimental data regarding how fish localize a sound source are reviewed. Sensory hair cells in fish’s hearing organs are spatially oriented in three dimensional space, and these hair cells are most sensitive to detecting a sound traveling along the directions of their morphological polarizations. These have led us to believe that each sensory hair cell in the fish’s ear is a directional sensor. Experimental results have revealed that response directionality of auditory afferents correlates significantly with morphological polarity of the hair cells innervated by them, indicating that the response directionality of hair cells is faithfully relayed to the brain via auditory afferents. However, it is still not clear how peripherally encoded directional information, the axis at which a sound propagates, is further processed in the brain to extract the actual direction of the sound source.
Acetylacetonate complexes of molybdenum(V) and molybdenum(VI). I.

Abstract The compound MoO 2 (C 5 H 7 O 2 ) 2 has been reinvestigated and those methods of synthesis yielding reddish-yellow products have been found to be mixtures of MoO 2 (C 5 H 7 O 2 ) 2 and Mo 2 O 3 (C 5 H 7 O 2 ) 4 . Identification of mixtures was made by comparison of the visible spectrum and X-ray diffraction patterns with samples of known purity. The various syntheses for Mo 2 O 3 (C 5 H 7 O 2 ) 4 and MoO 2 (C 5 H 7 O 2 ) 2 have been evaluated. A new method of synthesis of Mo 2 O 3 (C 5 H 7 O 2 ) 4 is reported. The ultraviolet and visible spectra of Mo 2 O 3 (C 5 H 7 O 2 ) 4 and MoO 2 (C 5 H 7 O 2 ) 2 have been obtained in a variety of solvents and the electronic transitions assigned. The infrared spectrum and the mode of formation of Mo 2 O 3 (C 5 H 7 O 2 ) 4 is discussed. Several additional molybdenum acetylacetonate complexes reported to contain molybdenum(V) and (IV) have been reinvestigated.
A closer look at cause and effect in fire fatalities—The role of toxic fumes

Much has been learned about fire from laboratory studies on fire gases, but the idea of using a laboratory toxicity test to rank or rate materials with respect to fire safety has not proved to be a fruitful concept. ‘Toxicity’ standards or specifications are not an effective defense against the threat of toxic fumes in fire for reasons which are fundamental to the nature of fire itself. As a matter of public policy on materials standards, by far the best way of reducing the threat of toxic fumes and all other fire threats is by control and regulation of those materials properties or performance aspects which permit the elimination or moderation of fire. Some of the concepts discussed in this paper run counter to commonly held assumptions, and they are put forth for the purpose of stimulating open public discussion on alternative approaches to improved decision-making in fire safety.
Corporate tax revenues in OECD countries

This paper studies variation among OECD countries in the size of corporate income tax revenues relative to GDP over the time period 1979–2002. A decomposition explains such variation as a function of the statutory tax rate, the breadth of the tax base, corporate profitability, and the share of the corporate sector in GDP. Empirical results indicate a parabolic relationship between tax rates and revenues, implying a revenue-maximizing corporate income tax rate of 33% for the whole sample. This revenue-maximizing rate is found to decrease as economies are smaller and more integrated with the world economy.
Communication partners: Enhancing participation in life and communication for adults with aphasia in natural settings

Abstract Communication partners is a novel aphasia treatment plan whose aim is to restore a sense of purpose, direction, and control to daily life for both patient and caregiver. Treatment involves the participation of a community volunteer who, once paired with an aphasic adult, acts as a liaison in bridging clinical and real-life pursuits. Initially, treatment pairs are taught how to interact freely and effectively. Once comfortable in each other's company these partners embark on activities of the patient's choosing at home or in the community. Results from 10 treated pairs failed to yield significant differences on the Boston Diagnostic Aphasia Exmamination, Communication Abilities in Daily Living, or the Affect Balance Scale. However, all participants, i.e. patients, caregivers, and communication partners, noted statistically significant gains in the aphasic adult's well-being and communication on two investigator-constructed questionnaires. Other informal measures also supported the use of this trea...
Use of Approximate Dynamic Programming for Production Optimization

In production optimization, we seek to determine the well settings (bottomhole pressures, flow rates) that maximize an objective function such as net present value. In this paper we introduce and apply a new approximate dynamic programming (ADP) algorithm for this optimization problem. ADP aims to approximate the global optimum using limited computational resources via a systematic set of procedures that approximate exact dynamic programming algorithms. The method is able to satisfy general constraints such as maximum watercut and maximum liquid production rate in addition to bound constraints. ADP has been used in many application areas, but it does not appear to have been implemented previously for production optimization. The ADP algorithm is applied to twodimensional problems involving primary production and water injection. We demonstrate that the algorithm is able to provide clear improvement in the objective function compared to baseline strategies. It is also observed that, in cases where the global optimum is known (or surmised), ADP provides a result within 1-2% of the global optimum. Thus the ADP procedure may be appropriate for practical production optimization problems.
Photoreactivation and repair replication in rat kangaroo cells

Abstract Potorous tridactylis cells can perform photoreactivation, i.e., the visible light- catalyzed reversal of UV-induced pyrimidine dimers in DNA. UV-induced inhibitions of total RNA and DNA synthesis can also be partially reversed by exposure to visible light. P. tridactylis cells can also perform repair replication, but the extent of the latter is reduced if the cells are exposed to visible light (VL). None of these effects are observed in mouse L cells, which cannot perform photoreactivation. The results are consistent with the concept of pyrimidine dimers are one of the main substrates for repair replication.
Speeding up the Sphere Decoder With $H^{\infty }$ and SDP Inspired Lower Bounds

It is well known that maximum-likelihood (ML) decoding in many digital communication schemes reduces to solving an integer least-squares problem, which is NP hard in the worst-case. On the other hand, it has recently been shown that, over a wide range of dimensions N and signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs), the sphere decoding algorithm can be used to find the exact ML solution with an expected complexity that is often less than N3. However, the computational complexity of sphere decoding becomes prohibitive if the SNR is too low and/or if the dimension of the problem is too large. In this paper, we target these two regimes and attempt to find faster algorithms by pruning the search tree beyond what is done in the standard sphere decoding algorithm. The search tree is pruned by computing lower bounds on the optimal value of the objective function as the algorithm proceeds to descend down the search tree. We observe a tradeoff between the computational complexity required to compute a lower bound and the size of the pruned tree: the more effort we spend in computing a tight lower bound, the more branches that can be eliminated in the tree. Using ideas from semidefinite program (SDP)-duality theory and Hinfin estimation theory, we propose general frameworks for computing lower bounds on integer least-squares problems. We propose two families of algorithms, one that is appropriate for large problem dimensions and binary modulation, and the other that is appropriate for moderate-size dimensions yet high-order constellations. We then show how in each case these bounds can be efficiently incorporated in the sphere decoding algorithm, often resulting in significant improvement of the expected complexity of solving the ML decoding problem, while maintaining the exact ML-performance.
Reclassification of a thermostable α-glucosidase from Bacillus subtilis H-17 as a cyclomaltodextrinase

Abstract A thermostable p- nitrophenyl -α- d -maltoside-hydrolysing α-glucosidase from Bacillus subtilis high-temperature growth transformant H-17 displayed maximal rates of hydrolysis for linear malto-oligosaccharides and α- and β-cyclodextrin with maltose and glucose as the final products. Starch, amylose, and amylopectin were degraded slowly to maltose in an exo-fashion by preferential cleavage of maltose units from the nonreducing ends. The Km values for maltoheptaose, α-cyclodextrin, starch, and amylopectin were 0.91 m m , 0.93 m m , 22 mg/ml, and 20 mg/ml, respectively. Based on substrate specificity and affinity, we have reclassified this enzyme as a cyclomaltodextrinase (E.C. 3.2.1.54).
Novel analytic solutions to general four-wave-mixing problems in a Raman medium

A new approach to the problem of steady-state plane-wave propagation in a Raman-active medium has lead to general analytical solutions. Any arbitrary number of fields can interact via both Raman and four-wave processes, but all fields must satisfy the phase-matching condition. The solutions will be illustrated with a problem of current interest; multiple first Stokes generation from a multiple-mode pump field.
Human cell-surface structures related to Haemophilus influenzae type B disease.

Abstract Twenty-six patients with Hœmophilus influenzœ type b disease were investigated by erythrocyte and lymphocyte phenotypes and by lymphocytotoxicity with antibodies to H. influenzœ type b. These studies suggest a relationship between host cell-surface structures and susceptibility to H. influenzœ type b disease in non-immune individuals.
The Conflation of Participatory Budgeting and Public–Private Partnerships in Porto Alegre, Brazil: The Construction of a Working‐Class Mall for Street Hawkers

This article addresses the political transition of Porto Alegre's Participatory Budget from a mechanism of restraining and managing some of the harshest manifestations of neoliberal urbanization to a promoter of profit-driven urban development. The most emblematic instance of the transition is the public–private partnership for the construction and management by a developer of a marketplace to relocate downtown street hawkers to an enclosed building. The article describes not only how the mayoŕs office was able to approve, as part of the downtown revitalization project, the relocation of street hawkers into a working-class popular shopping mall but also how the executive branch succeeded in transforming a public–private partnership into an elected participatory budget demand. Furthermore, I demonstrate how neoliberal programs of public–private partnerships undermine more redistributive participatory practices, such as the participatory budget, by combining their mechanisms with the older practices rather than eliminating the rival planning tool. This article provides an analysis of local class interests and strategies regarding the issue of street hawking in Porto Alegre by contrasting models of participatory planning. I argue that social classes with an investment in the urban question are key actors in developing hybrid models of neoliberal urbanization.
Synthesis of bicyclic organo-peptide hybrids via oxime/intein-mediated macrocyclization followed by disulfide bond formation

A new strategy is described to generate bicyclic peptides that incorporate non-peptidic backbone elements starting from recombinant polypeptide precursors. These compounds are produced via a one-pot, two-step sequence, in which peptide macrocyclization by means of a bifunctional oxyamine/1,3-amino-thiol synthetic precursor is followed by intramolecular disulfide formation between the synthetic precursor-borne thiol and a cysteine embedded in the peptide sequence. This approach was found to be compatible with the cysteine residue occupying different positions within 8mer and 10mer target peptide sequences and across different synthetic precursor scaffolds, thereby enabling the formation of a variety of diverse bicyclic scaffolds.
Multiple Reactions of Triphenylstannane with Ru5(CO)12(C6H6)(μ5-C) Yield Bimetallic Clusters with Unusually Large Numbers of Tin Ligands

The cluster complex Ru(5)(CO)(12)(C(6)H(6))(mu(5)-C), 1, undergoes multiple addition reactions with Ph(3)SnH to yield two new bimetallic cluster complexes: Ru(5)(CO)(8)(mu-SnPh(2))(4)(C(6)H(6))(mu(5)-C), 2, 2% yield, and Ru(5)(CO)(7)(mu-SnPh(2))(4)(SnPh(3))(C(6)H(6))(mu(5)-C)(mu-H), 3, 26% yield, containing four and five tin ligands, respectively. Both compounds consist of a square pyramidal Ru(5) cluster with an interstitial carbido ligand and bridging SnPh(2) groups located across each of the four edges of the base of the Ru(5) square pyramid. Compound 3 contains an additional SnPh(3) group terminally coordinated to one of the ruthenium atoms in the square base.
Effect of Elongation and Temperature on the Recovery and Apparent Glass Transition Behavior of an Experimental Modacrylic Fiber

The shape of the stress-strain curve of the modacrylic fiber is correlated in a definite manner with the stress-relaxation and recovery behavior. At the yield point, where the stress-strain curve h...
Extensional vibrations of continuous circular curved beams with rotary inertia and shear deformation. II: Forced vibration

The dynamic stiffness matrix formulation for circular curved members of constant section, including the effects of rotary intertia, shear deformation and extension of the neutral axis, is presented for determining natural frequencies of continuous curved beams undergoing in-plane vibrations. A three-span curved beam is given to illustrate the application of the proposed method and to show these effects on the natural frequencies of the beam.
Development and validation of an MMPI-based Sensation Seeking Scale ☆

Abstract A measure of the sensation seeking construct was developed based on the MMPI item pool. An 18-item scale resulting from content and factor analysis had high test–retest reliability in a sample of 95 undergraduates. The scale showed good convergent and discriminant validity with respect to Zuckerman’s (1979) Sensation Seeking Scale Form V and predictive validity similar to that of the Sensation Seeking Scale when evaluated in a separate sample of 175 undergraduates. In a sample of 461 twin pairs the new scale had a heritability of 0.52, which is also similar to past results for the Sensation Seeking Scale. The results suggest that the new MMPI-based sensation seeking measure may be a useful alternative to previously developed measures of the construct, particularly in settings where the MMPI is already being collected for other reasons.
Conversion in off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting: an analysis of predictors and outcomes.

Abstract Background The incidence, predictive factors, and outcomes related to conversion from off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB) to on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (ONCAB) have not been well defined. We sought to determine the incidence of conversion, predictive factors, and any associated adverse consequences. Methods From January 2000 through June 2002, 1,644 patients underwent nonemergent OPCAB with 61 patients requiring conversion from OPCAB to ONCAB. These groups were retrospectively compared by univariate and multivariate regression analysis. The converted group was then computer matched 1:3, to a cohort of ONCAB patients to determine differences in outcomes. Results The overall conversion rate was 3.71%. Converted patients compared with a computer-matched ONCAB patients had a higher incidence of operative mortality (18.0% versus 2.7%, p p p p = 0.03), and perioperative myocardial infarction (10.7% versus 1.1%, p=0.02). Predictive factors for conversion were surgeon early in OPCAB experience (odds ratio [OR] 4.4), previous CABG (OR 2.8), and congestive heart failure (OR 2.0). The need for urgent-emergent conversion was highly predictive for operative mortality (OR 7.3) compared with elective conversion. Conclusions Patients undergoing urgent-emergent but not elective conversion from OPCAB to ONCAB had a significantly higher risk of mortality and morbidity compared with patients whose procedure was initially ONCAB. Variables predictive of conversion included previous CABG, congestive heart failure, and surgeons early in OPCAB experience.
Influence of the molar ratio SiO2∶Al2O3 in super-high silica zeolite on the acidic and catalytic properties of palladium catalysts in isomerization of C8 aromatic hydrocarbons

The effect of the molar ratio SiO2∶Al2O3 in the high-silica zeolite on the catalytic properties of palladium catalysts in the isomerization of m-xylene and ethylbenzene has been studied. A correlation between catalytic and acidic properties of the samples examined is suggested.