cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Isolation and characterization of a dioxin-inducible CYP1A1 promoter/enhancer region from zebrafish (Danio rerio).

To isolate the CYP1A1 promoter/enhancer from zebrafish, a PAC genomic library was screened with sequence derived from the 5'UTR of the zfCYP1A1 cDNA. Sequence was identified that contained CAAT and TATA boxes, had a large intron within the 5'UTR, and showed 100% sequence identity to zfCYP1A1 cDNAs in the 5'UTR and initial 300 bp of the open reading frame. Oligonucleotides complementary to the 5'UTR were used to detect zfCYP1A1 mRNA in zebrafish liver cells (ZFL) exposed to TCDD, thus identifying the gene as a TCDD-inducible CYP1A1. Sequence analysis revealed that the 5' flanking region contained eight putative xenobiotic response elements (XRE) arranged in two distinct clusters. One cluster was localized between –580 and –187 and contained three XREs and two XREs bound zfAHR2 · rtARNTb complexes in vitro. However, this region was incapable of conferring TCDD-responsiveness to an SV40 promoter. In contrast, the region between –2608 and –2100 contained five XREs and was capable of driving TCDD-inducible exp...
Derivatives with Twists

We study derivatives on an interval of length l (or the associated circle of the same length), and certain pseudo-differential operators that arise as their fractional powers. We compare different translations across the interval (around the circle) that are characterized by a twisting angle. These results have application in
Transient changes in sweating activity of man following ingestion of walter at different temperatures

Sweat rates were continuously recorded by the resistance hygrometry technique from 4 male subjects while they either drank or were fed water at different temperatures via a stomach tube in a controlled temperature chamber at 36°C, 30% RH and also at ambient temperatures below the normal threshold of sweating. Following a drink of ice-cold water the subjects sweating in a warm room responded with an immediate depression in their sweating activity prior to any detectable change in their internal temperature. When cold water was introduced to the stomach via a tube, the subject felt the cold sensation but his sweating rate was not altered until the internal temperature decreased. However, there was no consistent response of the sweat glands to the intake of hot water. The results suggest that there are thermoreceptors in the human buccopharyngeal area. Similarly effective thermoreceptors seem to be absent in the gastric wall.
Effects of 3,3'-iminodipropionitrile on acquisition and performance of spatial tasks in rats.

Abstract 3,3′-Iminodipropionitrile (IDPN) has been reported to disrupt learning and memory in rats (24). The present work addressed the effects of IDPN on tasks requiring the use of spatial information. Separate groups of male rats were dosed with IDPN (IP, in 1 ml/kg saline) for 3 consecutive days and tested in the following procedures: (a) step-through passive avoidance conditioning (0, 100, 150, and 200 mg/kg/day); (b) Morris water maze (MWM) acquisition and retention (0, 125, 150, 175, and 200 mg/kg/day); (c) radial arm maze (RAM) acquisition (0, 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg/day); (d) RAM steady-state performance (0, 200, and 400 mg/kg/day); (e) repeated acquisition in the RAM (0, and 200 mg/kg/day). The vestibular toxicity of IDPN resulted in alterations in spontaneous behavior or swimming deficits in 5 of 8 rats treated with 175 mg/kg/day and in all the animals dosed with 200 or 400 mg/kg/day. IDPN increased step-through PA latencies at 200 mg/kg/day but not at lower doses. In the MWM, no performance deficits were observed at the dose levels preserving the swimming ability of the animals. In both the acquisition and the steady-state RAM tasks, IDPN (400 mg/kg/day) induced an increase in both choice errors and perseverative errors. In the RAM repeated acquisition paradigm, IDPN (200 mg/kg/day) induced performance deficits that included a decreased rate of within-session reduction in errors. The present data show that IDPN disrupts performance of tasks requiring spatial learning and memory and indicate that these deficits can be in part caused by an acquisition deficit.
Characterization of monoclonal antibodies directed to canine T lymphocyte markers expressed during development

Abstract Two monoclonal antibodies (mAb) which recognize cell surface antigens of canine T lymphocytes are described. mAb RQ1 (of IgG1 subclass) binds a 34 kDa peptide under non-reducing conditions which is expressed, on average, by 27±9% (n = 11 dogs) of thymocytes, with preferential binding for medullary, but not cortical thymocytes. RQ1 adheres to splenic periarteriolar lymphoid sheath cells. In adult dogs (n = 7) RQ1 binds on average 86 ± 7% of unstimulated canine peripheral blood mononuclear cells (CPBMC), 69 ± 13% (n = 11) of lymph node cells, and ≤ 19% (n = 2) of bone marrow cells. RQ1 does not bind canine granulocytes, erythrocytes, fibroblasts or kidney epithelial cells. The relative density of RQ1-binding antigen (expressed as fluorescence intensity per cell) was up to 83% greater in lymph node cells than in thymocytes. Thus, RQ1 appears to preferentially bind mature T cells. In contrast, mAb LQ1 (of IgG3 subclass, which binds a 32 kDa sialic acid containing glycoprotein) recognizes both cortical and medullary canine thymocytes as well as 75± 6% CPBMC. This profile is characteristic of a pan-T cell marker. The simultaneous utilization of these two markers allows for the characterization of canine T lymphocyte development: early lymphocyte (e.g. LQ1 +, RQ1 − thymocytes), common lymphocyte (e.g. LQ1 +, RQ1 + [dim fluorescence] thymocytes), and mature lymphocyte (e.g. LQ1 +, RQ1 + [bright fluorescence]).
Identification and adaptive control: An application to flight control systems

This paper presents the first results obtained in the application of stochastic control theory to flight control problems. It involves identification and adaptive control of an aircraft which operates over a wide range of environmental conditions that affect its dynamic characteristics. The bulk of the paper deals with theidentification problem of estimating stability derivatives in the presence of turbulence. Simulation results are presented both for identification and control (windgust alleviation and desired response to pilot input). While no practical implementation is reported, the implications for such implementation appear to be promising.
Use of reason maintenance in model formulation

Abstract Studies of the process of model formulation by experts have shown the process to be an iterative one, in which the model is continuously refined until a complete and consistent representation emerges. It is also a highly unstable activity as the problem specifications, including the goal, may change both during and after the formulation. In order to be able to model real world problems, model formulation systems, which provide computer-based support for model formulation, should also be capable of dealing with changes to the problem. This paper presents the architecture of a model formulation system enhanced with reason maintenance capabilities, for dealing with changes in assumptions and specifications during formulation.
Hazard rate estimation under dependence conditions

Let X1,…,Xn be identically distributed Rp-valued (p≥1) random variables with distribution function F and probability density function ƒ with respect to Lebesgue measure in Rp. The hazard rate r is defined in terms of ƒ and the survival function F, where F(x)=P(X1 > x), by a straightforward generalization of the definition of r in the one-dimensional case. The problem then addressed here is that of estimating r(x) on the basis of the random variables X1,…,Xn. An estimate rn(x) of r(x) is proposed, constructed in terms of a kernel-type estimate for ƒ(x) and the natural estimate for F(x). The random variables involved are assumed to come from a strictly stationary process and also to satisfy any one of the four standard modes of mixing. Then, under some further suitable conditions, it is shown that the estimate rn(x) is pointwise strongly consistent, as well as strongly consistent uniformly over certain sets. In the process of establishing the latter result, it is also shown that the natural estimate of the survival function is strongly consistent uniformly over an appropriate class of sets.
Deuterium atom exchange in 3,3,4,4′-[2H]-6-oxo-prostaglandin F1α in the course of its derivatisation

Abstract The recent commercial availability of 3,3,4,4 [2H]-6-oxo prostaglandin F1α has prompted us to develop a gas-chromatography mass-spectrometry (gc-ms) assay for this metabolite of prostaglandin I2 in human skin blister fluid. In the course of this work an unexpected problem was encountered with the stability of the four deuterium atoms.
High-Q Tunable Silver Capacitors for RFIC's

This paper presents implementation and characterization of high quality factor (Q) silver (Ag) in-plane tunable capacitors on various substrates. A combination of low-loss substrate and the highest conductivity metal is used to achieve very high Q at RF frequencies. A high quality factor (Q>200 @1GHz) 0.7pF silver capacitor fabricated on a low-loss suspended Avatrel membrane achieved a tuning of 130%
Policy‐making and defining ethnic minorities: The case of immigration in France

Abstract This article analyses the transformation of the immigration issue in the French political arena. From a set of issues resolved almost entirely at the local level in the early 1970s, immigration evolved during the 1980s to become a national policy issue. By the late 1970s, the distribution of immigrants among municipalities governed by the Left and the Right became a public issue. This could not be resolved at the local level, and the existing consensus broke down. Within the new institutional frameworks that were set up to tackle the problems of integration, the supposed negative aspects of immigration became more visible and public. National party struggles, combined with greater mobilisation by the immigrants themselves, ensured that the issues became more visible and less easily amenable to solution. This article argues that it was the conflict over the portrayal of immigration issues that quintessentially brought about the change in the arena within which policy decisions were made.
Mood lability and bipolar disorder in children and adolescents

Pediatric bipolar disorder, once considered rare, has reportedly increased in incidence over the past 10 years. There is significant debate about the phenomenology, diagnosis and treatment of this illness. The diagnostic assessment of children with severe mood and behavioural disturbance is of considerable public health importance as the ultimate diagnosis can have significant treatment implications and can impact the level of stigma experienced by children and their families. The purposes of this paper are to: 1) review current issues in the phenomenology and diagnostic assessment of bipolar disorder in children and adolescents; 2) review recent research suggesting that youths with a chronic course of illness should be considered a separate group from those with an episodic course; and 3) offer suggestions for future studies to address the various phenomenological controversies.
Thermodynamic and kinetic description of dolomitization of calcite and calcitization of dolomite (dedolomitization)

Replacement dolomitization of calcite is a chemical process where dolomite comes to occupy the spatial position and volume of calcite through simultaneous dissolution of calcite and precipitation of dolomite without effecting a volume change in the crystalline portion of the rock. Dissolution and precipitation occur adjacent to one another in conjunction with a narrow aqueous boundary film width which separates the dolomite growth surface from the calcite dissolution surface. The primary condition of replacement is that the volumetric rate of calcite dissolution at the actual replacement site exactly equals the volumetric rate of dolomite precipitation even though the precipitation-dissolution rates in the adjacent pores may differ widely. The volumetric equality of these rates is established by the growing dolomite crystal exerting a linear force of crystallization on the microenvironment of the replacement site. This force increases the pressure within the aqueous boundary film which in turn retards dolomite precipitation and enhances calcite dissolution. The pressure established by this force is that pressure where the thermodynamic potential for dolomite precipitation exactly equals the thermodynamic potential of calcite dissolution times the ratio of the molar volume of dolomite to that of calcite. The kinetic rate of replacement in terms of volume per unit time is proportional to a function of the dolomite thermodynamic potential and inversely proportional to functions of the pressure developed within the boundary film and the size of the growing dolomite crystal. Replacement calcitization of dolomite is an analogous process differing only in direction of the component reactions.
Optimization of a flat-panel based real time dual-energy system for cardiac imaging

A simulation study was conducted to evaluate the effects of high-energy beam filtration, dual-gain operation and noise reduction on dual-energy images using a digital flat-panel detector. High-energy beam filtration increases image contrast through greater beam separation and tends to reduce total radiation exposure and dose per image pair. It is also possible to reduce dual-energy image noise by acquiring low and high-energy images at two different detector gains. In addition, dual-energy noise reduction algorithms can further reduce image noise. The cumulative effect of these techniques applied in series was investigated in this study. The contrast from a small thickness of calcium was simulated over a step phantom of tissue equivalent material with a CsI phosphor as the image detector. The dual-energy contrast-to-noise ratio was calculated using values of energy absorption and energy variance. A figure-of-merit (FOM) was calculated from dual-energy contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) and patient effective dose estimated from values of entrance exposure. Filter atomic numbers in the range of 1-100 were considered with thicknesses ranging from 0-2500 mg/cm2. The simulation examined combinations of the above techniques which maximized the FOM. The application of a filter increased image contrast by as much as 45%. Near maximal increases were seen for filter atomic numbers in the range of 40-60 and 85-100 with masses above 750 mg/cm2. Increasing filter thickness beyond 1000 mg/cm2 increased tube loading without further significant contrast enhancement. No additional FOM improvements were seen with dual gain before or after the application of any noise reduction algorithm. Narrow beam experiments were carried out to verify predictions. The measured FOM increased by more than a factor of 3.5 for a silver filter thickness of 800 microm, equal energy weighting and application of a noise clipping algorithm. The main limitation of dynamic high-energy filtration is increased tube loading. The results of this study can be used to help develop an optimal dual-energy imaging system.
Intracrystalline oxidation of thiosulfate-intercalated layered double hydroxides.

Thiosulfate-intercalated zinc−aluminum LDH was prepared by anion exchange reaction. The interlayer thiosulfate ions of this LDH could be quantitatively oxidized to tetrathionate ions using iodine and sulfate ions using H2O2. Both of these intracrystalline reactions are topotactic in nature. The reaction of the LDH with molecular iodine makes it a potential material for the removal of radioactive iodine from effluents.
Sedimentation coefficients of replicating and crosslinked DNA.

The sedimentation coefficients of branched and cyclic replicating DNA structures have been calculated taking into account both chain stiffness and excluded volume effects. For branched DNA, the calculated ratio S0(α)/S0(0) of the sedimentation coefficient at degree of replication α to that at α = 0 increases from 1.000 to 1.331 as α goes from 0 to 1. For cyclic replicating DNA, S0(1)/S0(0) = 1.517. The considerable difference between these two ratios for α = 1 suggests that the two types of replicating structures may feasibly be distinguished by sedimentation velocity studies, A similar calculation has been made of the sedimentation coefficient of singly cross-linked DNA under denaturing conditions, as a function of placement of the crosslink. In 0.195M Na+, the ratio S0(α)/S0(0) varies from 1.000 at α = 0 to 1.124 at α = 0.5, where α is the fractional distance of the crosslink from the end of the chain.
Gated regulation of CRAC channel ion selectivity by STIM1

Two defining functional features of ion channels are ion selectivity and channel gating. Ion selectivity is generally considered an immutable property of the open channel structure, whereas gating involves transitions between open and closed channel states, typically without changes in ion selectivity. In store-operated Ca(2+) release-activated Ca(2+) (CRAC) channels, the molecular mechanism of channel gating by the CRAC channel activator, stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1), remains unknown. CRAC channels are distinguished by a very high Ca(2+) selectivity and are instrumental in generating sustained intracellular calcium concentration elevations that are necessary for gene expression and effector function in many eukaryotic cells. Here we probe the central features of the STIM1 gating mechanism in the human CRAC channel protein, ORAI1, and identify V102, a residue located in the extracellular region of the pore, as a candidate for the channel gate. Mutations at V102 produce constitutively active CRAC channels that are open even in the absence of STIM1. Unexpectedly, although STIM1-free V102 mutant channels are not Ca(2+)-selective, their Ca(2+) selectivity is dose-dependently boosted by interactions with STIM1. Similar enhancement of Ca(2+) selectivity is also seen in wild-type ORAI1 channels by increasing the number of STIM1 activation domains that are directly tethered to ORAI1 channels, or by increasing the relative expression of full-length STIM1. Thus, exquisite Ca(2+) selectivity is not an intrinsic property of CRAC channels but rather a tuneable feature that is bestowed on otherwise non-selective ORAI1 channels by STIM1. Our results demonstrate that STIM1-mediated gating of CRAC channels occurs through an unusual mechanism in which permeation and gating are closely coupled.
Clinical utility of the platelet function analyzer (PFA-100) in cardiothoracic procedures involving extracorporeal circulation.

Cardiothoracic surgical procedures involving extracorporeal circulation are frequently associated with thrombocytopenia and thromobocytopathy. Although hemodilution and consumption in combination can result in bleeding due to procoagulant factor deficiencies, platelet loss and dysfunction are more commonly responsible for blood loss. Cumbersome test procedures such as bleeding time and platelet aggregation studies do not necessarily correlate with bleeding diatheses. Because of the unavailability of tests with rapid turnaround time to delineate the cause of hemorrhage, various blood components are needlessly used in an attempt to control bleeding. This places a heavy burden on blood banks, especially during times of a nationwide shortage in platelets. In this communication, we are reporting the results obtained with the platelet function analyzer (PFA-100, Dade Behring, Inc, Deerfield, Ill) on 98 patients with or without hemorrhagic complications after undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). The PFA-100 1 is a high shear system that challenges platelets, in anticoagulated whole blood, to occlude an aperture cut into a membrane coated with collagen and an agonist (epinephrine or adenosine 5´-diphosphate, ADP). Results are expressed in seconds, with a maximum test time of 300 seconds. This system has previously been shown to be sensitive to a variety of platelet and von Willebrand factor defects (inherited, acquired, or drug-induced), as well as hemorheologic factors. 1-4
An Integrated System for the Precise Calibration of Four-Terminal Standard Resistors

A description is given of the system currently in use at the National Bureau of Standards for measurements of 1-?? standard resistors of the Thomas type. A tenfold improvement in accuracy over the former method has been realized. Resistors of this type are now reported to eight decimal places with a total uncertainty of 0.08 ppm. The latter figure includes a three-standard-deviation limit for random errors plus an estimate of systematic errors [1]. The new system is not only more rapid in operation than the old one (fewer man hours required), but has consistently produced data of superior resolution while operating with a lower test power in resistors. A dc current-linkage balance is used to determine the standard-unknown differences while both are connected in series and totally immersed in a specially designed circular oil bath, which remains completely covered during all tests. Bath temperature is maintained constantly at 25 000?? (??0.003??C) in a unique manner.
Sustained volcanically-hosted venting at ultraslow ridges: Piccard Hydrothermal Field, Mid-Cayman Rise

At slow spreading mid-ocean ridges sustained submarine venting and the deposition of large seafloor massive sulfide deposits have previously been ascribed to tectonically-controlled hydrothermal circulation unrelated to young volcanic activity. Here, by contrast, we show that the Piccard Hydrothermal Field (PHF), on the ultraslow spreading Mid-Cayman Rise, represents a site of sustained fluid flow and sulfide formation hosted in a neovolcanic setting. The lateral extent and apparent longevity associated with the PHF are comparable to some of the largest tectonically-hosted vent sites known along the slow-spreading Mid-Atlantic Ridge. If such systems recur along all ultraslow ridges, which comprise ∼20% of the ∼55,000 km global ridge crest, potential implications would include (i) a higher probability of locating large, economically valuable, mineral deposits along ultraslow ridges together with (ii) larger fluxes than previously anticipated of chemicals released from high-temperature venting entering the oceans along the Atlantic–Indian Ocean sectors of the deep-ocean thermohaline conveyor.
Regulation of Protein Kinase C δ by Phorbol Ester, Endothelin-1, and Platelet-derived Growth Factor in Cardiac Myocytes

Abstract Protein kinase C (PKC) δ is regulated allosterically by phosphatidylserine and diacylglycerol (which promote its translocation to the membrane) and by phosphorylation of Ser/Thr and Tyr residues. Although phosphorylation on Thr-505/Ser-643/Ser-662 may simply “prime” PKCδ for activation, it could be regulatory. We examined the regulation of PKCδ in cardiac myocytes by endothelin-1 (Gq protein-coupled receptor agonist) and platelet-derived growth factor (receptor tyrosine kinase agonist) in comparison with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA). All increased phosphorylation of PKCδ(Thr-505/Ser-643) and of Tyr residues, although to differing extents. De novo phosphorylation occurred mainly after translocation of PKCδ to the particulate fraction, and phosphorylations of Thr-505/Ser-643 versus Tyr residues were essentially independent events. Following chromatographic separation of the PKCδ subspecies, activities were correlated with immunoreactivity profiles of total and phosphorylated forms. In unstimulated cells, ∼25% of PKCδ lacked phosphorylation of Thr-505/Ser-643 and displayed minimal activity (assayed in the presence of phosphatidylserine/PMA following chromatography). Endothelin-1 or PMA (10 min) promoted Thr-505/Ser-643 phosphorylation of this pool, and this was associated with an increase in total recoverable PKCδ activity. Meanwhile, in cells exposed to endothelin-1 or PMA, the overall pool of PKCδ translocated rapidly (30 s) to the particulate fraction and was phosphorylated on Tyr residues. This was associated with an increase in lipid-independent activity (i.e. the phosphatidylserine/PMA requirement disappeared). For endothelin-1, Tyr phosphorylation of PKCδ and the increase in phosphatidylserine/PMA-independent activity persisted after PKCδ retrotranslocated to the soluble fraction. We concluded that, with this physiological agonist, PKCδ becomes activated in the particulate fraction but retains activity following its retrotranslocation, presumably to phosphorylate substrates elsewhere.
Angiotensin II studies in hypertension.

1. In primary hypertension, the digital blood vessels are more reactive than normal to angiotensin II as well as to l -norepinephrine. 2. In terms of weight, the potency of angiotensin II in constricting digital blood vessels is 10 times that of norepinephrine in both normotensive and hypertensive subjects. 3. The turnover of angiotensin II-I131 is slower than normal in patients with primary hypertension. 4. Digital vascular reactivity to both l -norepinephrine and angiotensin II is normal in "pure" renal hypertension. 5. Angiotensin II-I131 turnover, in contrast, in the case of renal hypertension studied, was slower than in the normal group and was similar to that in the case of primary hypertension.
Determination of selenium in fish tissues with differential pulse polarography

Abstract A method is described for the quantitative trace level analysis of selenium in fish tissues using differential pulse polarography at a dropping mercury electrode (DME). Advantages of the method include high sensitivity (detection limit = 5μg/1), linear response over a wide range of concentrations (5 μg/l ‐ 20 mg/l), close precision among replicate analyses, and freedom from interfering elements. No pre‐concentration is necessary and both calibration and analysis of a number of samples can be done in a matter of minutes. The differential pulse‐DME method is a simple, quick, sensitive, and cost effective technique for routine quantitative determination of selenium in fish tissues.
Regulation of cAMP-mediated Signal Transduction via Interaction of Caveolins with the Catalytic Subunit of Protein Kinase A

cAMP-dependent processes are essential for cell growth, differentiation, and homeostasis. The classic components of this system include the serpentine receptors, heterotrimeric G-proteins, adenylyl cyclase, protein kinase A (PKA), and numerous downstream target substrates. Evidence is accumulating that some members of this cascade are concentrated within membrane microdomains, termed caveolae and caveolae-related domains. In addition, the caveolin-1 protein has been shown to interact with some of these components, and this interaction inhibits their enzymatic activity. However, the functional effects of caveolins on cAMP-mediated signaling at the most pivotal step, PKA activation, remain unknown. Here, we show that caveolin-1 can dramatically inhibit cAMP-dependent signaling in vivo. We provide evidence for a direct interaction between caveolin-1 and the catalytic subunit of PKA both in vitro and in vivo. Caveolin-1 binding appears to be mediated both by the caveolin scaffolding domain (residues 82–101) and a portion of the C-terminal domain (residues 135–156). Further functional analysis indicates that caveolin-based peptides derived from these binding regions can inhibit the catalytic activity of purified PKA in vitro. Mutational analysis of the caveolin scaffolding domain reveals that a series of aromatic residues within the caveolin scaffolding domain are critical for mediating inhibition of PKA. In addition, co-expression of caveolin-1 and PKA in cultured cells results in their co-localization as seen by immunofluorescence microscopy. In cells co-expressing caveolin-1 and PKA, PKA assumed a punctate distribution that coincided with the distribution of caveolin-1. In contrast, in cells expressing PKA alone, PKA was localized throughout the cytoplasm and yielded a diffuse staining pattern. Taken together, our results suggest that the direct inhibition of PKA by caveolin-1 is an important and previously unrecognized mechanism for modulating cAMP-mediated signaling.
Calcium movements associated with peptide induced phagocytosis in Amoeba proteus

Calcium controls the level of phagocytosis inAmoeba proteus which is inhibited by substances such as verapamil and flunarazine which interfere with Ca++ movements in a variety of cell systems. Calcium ion movements in amoebae under control conditions appear to be primarily diffusive in response to activity and electrical potential gradients. Chemotactic peptides (n-formylmethionylleucylphenylalanine, NFMLP) at high concentrations (10−5 M) induce phagocytosis in the amoeba and bring about a concomitant increase in45Ca influx. Verapamil, flunarazine and La+++ all block the increased45Ca influx caused by NFMLP, as well as inhibiting phagocytosis. It is suggested that initiation of phagocytosis in the amoeba is associated with the movement of Ca++ into the cytoplasm from the external medium resulting in a transient increase in the cytoplasmic Ca++ ion activity.
Work in progress - UTeachEngineering: Innovative program to train qualified K-12 engineering teachers

The University of Texas at Austin's Cockrell School of Engineering, College of Education, UTeach Natural Sciences program and the Austin Independent School District are collaborating to develop and deliver UTeachEngineering, an innovative, design-based curriculum for preparing secondary teachers to meet the growing need for engineering teachers in Texas.
Depressive symptom deterioration in a large primary care-based elderly cohort

Objective The purpose of this study is to examine the incidence and clinical predictors of symptom deterioration in depressed elderly patients who have responded to treatment in primary care. Method A cohort study of 901 older adults from 18 primary care clinics in five states who met Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) criteria for major depression and/or dysthymia at baseline interview, had participated in a trial of collaborative care for depression compared to usual care, and had improved to the point of no longer meeting criteria for major depression at 12 months were observed for one year (18 and 24 months) after enrolling in the original study. Results A total of 40% of patients met criteria for significant depressive symptom deterioration over the 12- to 24-month observational period. Among usual-care patients, higher initial severity of depression and a higher number of residual DSM–IV depressive symptoms at 12 months were significant predictors of symptom deterioration. No variables predicted symptom deterioration in intervention patients. Conclusions There is a high rate of symptom deterioration among elderly patients in primary care who are treated for depression. Efforts to improve long-term outcomes of older patients with major depression and/or dysthymia should focus on providing more intensive treatment and follow up for patients with residual depressive symptoms.
Psychosocial Therapies for Children and Adolescents: Overview and Future Directions

The assessment and psychosocial treatment of children must consider developmental phase and stage, developmental tasks, the nature of the disorder (does it affect a narrow sector or one developmental line or is there a broad disruption of development?) and biological contributions (including constitution, maturational rate, and factors such as the onset of puberty). Treatments can be distinguished along dimensions, including theoretical emphases, degrees of definition of the treatment, scope, the “patient” (child, family), duration, frequency of contacts, combination with other modalities, etc. Similarly, choice of treatment is based on many factors, including the clinician's expertise, availability of resources, wishes of parents, cost, etc. Future research should be grounded in a theory of child developmentas well as a theory of therapeutic action.Treatments should be well defined and currently practiced, provided by experts, and arise from realistic situations. The study of therapies bridges basic and applied research and provides data of profound relevance for theories of child development.
Decision games applied to police decision making -an exploratory study of information usage-

Abstract An analysis of police decision making is presented using the decision board technique developed by Leslie Wilkins. This method assumes that decision making can be measured by observing a subject's response to stimuli presented in the form of pieces of information. A board was created and employed with fifty municipal police officers. Findings suggest that police demonstrate individualized preferences for varying amounts and kinds of information. The nature of the offense was considered most frequently. The attitude of the offender was also an important determinant of the decision outcome; and the offender's attitude then influenced the amount and type of information subsequently used.
Residence Hall Architecture and Sense of Community: Everything Old Is New Again.

This study of almost 600 students examines the relationship between sense of community and college dormitory architecture on the campus of a small residential liberal arts college in the Northeast. Respondents of all class years completed an online survey that included the Sense of Community Index and the Relationship dimension of the University Residence Environment Scale. Students also rated architectural characteristics about their dorms and provided background information. Results indicate significant differences in sense of community related to dormitory design, in particular a lower sense of community in dorms that are organized around clusters or suites. At the same time, these units in clusters are judged to be more positive in terms of basic architectural components, including thermal comfort, adequacy of bathrooms, and storage. Results are discussed in terms of recommendations to enhance a sense of community through design.
Adhesion, shape, proliferation, and gene expression of mouse Leydig cells are influenced by extracellular matrix in vitro

Interactions between Leydig cells and the extracellular matrix (ECM) within the interstitial compartment of the mammalian testis have not been characterized. We have examined the influence of ECM on adult mouse Leydig cells by culturing the cells on different ECM substrates. Leydig cells adhere weakly to hydrated gels of type I collagen (including those supplemented with collagen types IV, V, or VIII), or to air-dried films of collagen types I, V, or VIII. In contrast, the cells attach firmly to substrates of purified type IV collagen, fibronectin, or laminin. Leydig cells also attach rapidly and adhere strongly to gelled basement membrane matrix derived from the murine Englebreth-Holm-Swarm sarcoma (Matrigel). Leydig cells assume spherical shapes and form aggregates on thick (1.5-mm) layers of Matrigel; however, on thin (0.1-mm) layers, networks of cell clusters linked by cords of elongated cells are formed within 48 h. Similar networks are formed on thick layers of Matrigel that are supplemented with type I collagen. On substrates with high ratios of collagen I to Matrigel or on untreated tissue culture plastic, Leydig cells flatten and do not aggregate. On substrates that induce rounded shapes, proliferation is inhibited and the cells maintain the steroidogenic enzyme 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase for as long as 2 wk. Under conditions where Leydig cells are flattened, they divide and cease expressing the enzyme. Proliferating Leydig cells also exhibit elevated levels of mRNA for SPARC (Secreted Protein, Acidic and Rich in Cysteine), a Ca2(+)-binding glycoprotein associated with changes in cell shape that accompany morphogenesis and tissue remodeling. Our results indicate that the shape, association, proliferation, and expression of gene products by Leydig cells can be significantly affected in vitro by altering the composition of the extracellular substratum.
Autonomy, residence, and return

This article argues that those unjustly displaced from a particular territory T cannot involuntarily lose their rights to reside there, or, as a consequence, their rights of return to it, even if they develop territorially grounded conceptions of the good where they now reside. The contrary position fails to accord the unjustly displaced the respect due to them in virtue of their personal autonomy. Facts commonly alleged to justify the supersession of rights of return to T only provide evidence that the unjustly displaced have abandoned their rights to reside there, or would do so if given a just opportunity to return. The rights of those now residing in T, which author argues may include those responsible for the unjust displacement, may limit the right of return but are unlikely to preclude it altogether.
Background reduction in microchannel plates

The source of an observed diffuse, time-varying structured background component in both bare and coated microchannel plates (MPCs) is investigated. The effects of MCP operating voltages, MCP gain characteristics, pressure, electrical contacts, and physical shielding on this background component are addressed. Various techniques to reduce this background are considered.
Raman and fluorescent scattering by molecules embedded in concentric spheres

A classical model for Raman and fluorescent scattering by molecules embedded in particles is extended to the case where the particle consists of concentric spheres made of different dielectric materials.
Dual Sine Wave Phase Modulation for Ultra-flat Optical Comb Generation

We have developed the theory of and experimentally demonstrated the ultra- flat optical comb generation by dual sinusoidal phase modulation of CW light. 11 comb components with better than 2 dB flatness have been realized.
A Cost-Sensitive Model for Preemptive Intrusion Response Systems

The proliferation of complex and fast-spreading intrusions not only requires advances in intrusion detection mechanisms but also demands development of sophisticated and automated intrusion response systems. In this paper we present a novel cost-sensitive model for intrusion response that incorporates preemptive deployment of the response actions. Specifically, our technique relies on comparing the cost of deploying a response against the cost of damage caused by an "'un-attended" intrusion and decides to preemptively deploy a response with maximum benefit. Our technique further allows adaptation of responses to the changing environment through evaluation of success and failure of previously triggered responses. We demonstrate the advantages of the approach and evaluate it using a damage reduction metric.
Fusarisetin A: scalable total synthesis and related studies†

Fusarisetin A (1) is a recently isolated natural product that displays an unprecedented chemical motif and remarkable bioactivities as a potent cancer migration inhibitor. We describe here our studies leading to an efficient and scalable total synthesis of 1. Essential to the strategy was the development of a new route for the formation of a trans-decalin moiety of this compound and the application of an oxidative radical cyclization (ORC) reaction that produces fusarisetin A (1) from equisetin (2) via a bio-inspired process. TEMPO-induced and metal/O2-promoted ORC reactions were evaluated. Biological screening in vitro confirms the reported potency of (+)-1. Importantly, ex vivo studies show that this compound is able to inhibit different types of cell migration. Moreover, the C5 epimer of (+)-1 was also identified as a potent cancer migration inhibitor, while (−)-1 and 2 were found to be significantly less potent. The optimized synthesis is applicable on gram scale and provides a solid platform for analogue synthesis and methodical biological study.
Maintenance of Concrete Bridges

The principal reason concrete bridges deteriorate is that the reinforcement is damaged by chloride-induced corrosion. Effective maintenance, for the most part, involves activities designed to keep chlorides away from the reinforcement. Six maintenance activities help accomplish this goal: flushing debris and chlorides from decks and pier caps annually, repairing and sealing joints, sealing cracks, patching potholes, replacing the membrane if replacing an asphalt overlay, and installing low-permeability overlays.
GABAA receptors and alcohol

There is substantial evidence that GABAergic neurotransmission is important for many behavioral actions of ethanol and there are reports spanning more than 30 years of literature showing that low to moderate (3-30 mM) concentrations of ethanol enhance GABAergic neurotransmission. A key question is which GABA receptor subunits are sensitive to low concentrations of ethanol in vivo and in vitro. Recent evidence points to a role for extrasynaptic receptors. Another question is which behavioral actions of alcohol result from enhancement of GABAergic neurotransmission. Some clues are beginning to emerge from studies of knock-out and knock-in mice and from genetic analysis of human alcoholics. These approaches are converging on a role for GABAergic actions in regulating alcohol consumption and, perhaps, the development of alcoholism.
Primary care physician versus urologist: How does their medical management of LUTS associated with BPH differ?

Medical and surgical therapies for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) are based largely on the results from adherence to the 2003 American Urological Association Guidelines. However, with the emergence of medical therapies as first-line treatment and the expansion of medical therapy for lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) into the primary care office, the evaluation and management of men presenting with urinary symptoms can vary depending on provider type. This review explains the basis for BPH medical management in primary care with the review of three key studies. In addition, this review utilizes the data provided by the first longitudinal, observational BPH registry to evaluate patient outcomes and practice patterns in both urologist and primary care offices. From these data, we can conclude that men seeing urologists were more likely to be on medical therapy than men seeing primary care physicians (PCPs), who more often utilized watchful waiting. Urologists also were more likely to prescribe 5-α-reductase inhibitors (5ARIs), combination therapy with an α-blocker and 5ARI, and anticholinergic therapy. In contrast, the use of nonselective α-blockers was appreciably greater among men seeing PCPs than men seeing urologists.
TOLERANCE TO SELF AND THE PROCESSING AND PRESENTATION OF SELF ANTIGENS

Antigen processing and presentation is critical to the generation and maintenance of self tolerance. The hemoglobin system has provided important data on self antigen processing and presentation in vivo. Hemoglobin/la complexes were detectable in the thymus before the time of positive and negative selection. In addition, thymic epithelial cells were shown to lack the costimulatory factors necessary to trigger T cell clone proliferation. We have extended these findings to the Renal proximal tubule. This class II MHC-expressing epithelial cell was demonstrated to process and present foreign as well as self antigens to T cell hybridomas. Current studies are examining whether this epithelial cell possesses the costimulatory factors Required to fully stimulate T cell clones, or whether the proximal tubule may play an important Role in the maintenance of self tolerance. In addition we describe the exciting model of murine autoimmune myocarditis. We have demonstrated that this is a T cell mediated disease and be...
Efficiently Utilizing ATE Vector Repeat for Compression by Scan Vector Decomposition

Previous approaches for utilizing ATE vector repeat are based on identifying runs of repeated scan data and directly generating that data using ATE vector repeat. Each run requires a separate vector repeat instruction, so the amount of compression is limited by the amount of ATE instruction memory available and the length of the runs (which typically will be much shorter than the length of a scan vector). In this paper a new and more efficient approach is proposed for utilizing ATE vector repeat. The scan vector sequence is partitioned and decomposed into a common sequence which is the same for an entire cluster of test cubes and a unique sequence that is different for each test cube. The common sequence can be generated very efficiently using ATE vector repeat. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed approach can achieve much greater compression while using many fewer vector repeat instructions compared with previous methods.
Denoising and compression of ultrasonic signals using model-based estimation techniques

Two model based decomposition (MBD) methods using maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) and matching pursuits (MP) methods are examined for denoising and compressing ultrasonic RF echoes. MBD is a sparse data adaptive and nonorthogonal decomposition. Sparse decompositions provide efficient denoising and high rate compression by representing the signal in terms of a limited number of functions adapted to the signal. We examined MLE and MP methods for sparse decomposition of ultrasonic RF echoes in terms of Gabor functions. MLE requires estimating the parameter sets of an unknown number of Gabor functions that best represent ultrasonic data in presence of noise (superimposed signal estimation). MP requires estimating signal structures by extracting best matching Gabor functions sequentially from ultrasonic data and building up the decomposition (signal approximation). While MLE targets the best representation of signal in noise, MP targets a greedy representation. Denosing and compression capabilities of these two types of signal decomposition methods are examined. MP provides a high fidelity representation of the signal at high compression rates (typically 20:1) while suppressing the noise effectively. However, MLE is computationally costly for long data segments because of the iterative nonlinear estimation involved. MP also provides a good representation of the signal at high compression rates (typically 15:1) while providing a time-frequency (TF) representation of the signal. Furthermore, MP is computationally feasible to implement a real-time ultrasonic data compression system.
Buffer insertion under process variations for delay minimization

This paper considers the buffer insertion problem under process variations. With continued technology scaling, it is necessary to model the physical parameters to be random variables. One approach to the buffer insertion problem under variations is to use the mean values of these parameters and solve the problem using traditional buffer insertion techniques for delay minimization. Another approach is to find a buffer insertion solution using a new method that can handle the probability distributions. Thus, the performance can be optimized with some yield constraint. In this paper, we present both analytical and experimental results to show that the two approaches give almost identical solutions. In other words, the more expensive statistical methods are not needed for the buffer insertion in delay minimization problem.