cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Regulation of TauT by cisplatin in LLC-PK1 renal cells

Cisplatin is a commonly used chemotherapeutic agent that has a major limitation because of its nephrotoxicity. Since cisplatin-induced renal injury is mainly confined to the S3 segment of renal proximal tubules-the primary site for renal adaptive regulation of TauT-we hypothesize that TauT functions as an anti-apoptotic gene and plays a role in protecting renal cells from drug-induced nephrotoxicity. In the present study we demonstrated that expression of TauT was significantly reduced by cisplatin (50 muM) in LLC-PK1 cells. Down-regulation of TauT by cisplatin occurs at the transcriptional level in a dose-dependent manner, as demonstrated through a reporter gene driven by the TauT promoter. It appears that cisplatin down-regulates TauT expression, at least in part, through the p53-dependent pathway, since cisplatin induces the p53 expression, which, in turn, represses TauT. Cisplatin induces apoptosis of LLC-PK1 cells in a dose-dependent manner. However, forced over-expression of TauT by stable transfection of a taurine transporter cDNA (pNCT) in LLC-PK1 cells was able to attenuate cisplatin-induced down-regulation of taurine uptake by LLC-PK1 cells and protect renal tubular cells from apoptosis. The mechanism by which TauT serves as an anti-apoptotic gene in cisplatin-induced renal injury remains to be determined, but could relate to taurine-dependent cell volume regulation.
Comparison of Calmodulin Gene Expression in Human Neonatal Melanocytes and Metastatic Melanoma Cell Lines

The qualitative and quantitative expression of three calmodulin genes (CAM I, CAM II and CAM III) was characterized in human neonatal melanocytes and metastatic melanoma cell lines in the absence and presence of serum, other growth modulators, and/or 12-O-tetradecanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate (TPA). Results indicated that the qualitative expression in melanocytes was the same as that of melanomas, that is, CAM I gene expressed two transcripts, 4.4 kb and 2.1 kb, whereas CAM II and CAM III expressed one transcript each, 1.95 kb and 2.37 kb, respectively. Differential quantitative expression was seen particularly with CAM I. The average levels of both CAM I transcripts in melanomas were less than one-half those of melanocytes. Serum and other growth modulators (including Ca++, isobutyl methyl xanthine, bovine pituitary extract, and insulin) enhanced CAM I and CAM II gene expression in melanocytes; in contrast, the net effect of serum in melanomas was to decrease expression of CAM I and CAM III. This effect was most prominent in melanoma C81-46C. TPA markedly inhibited expression of all three CaM genes in melanocytes; however, in melanomas the net effect of TPA was to increase their expression. CAM I in melanoma C81-46C was the most sensitive to TPA stimulation.
Numerical analysis of wave propagation on a periodic linear array

The propagating mode on a periodic array of wires or strips is studied. Numerical solutions of the current distribution on each element, the propagation constant, and the cutoff frequencies of the propagating mode are found. It is discovered that this periodic structure in some cases can support propagating waves in two or more widely separated frequency bands.
The demand for minor league baseball

Overall our model explains 80 percent of the variation in attendance at minor league baseball games for 27 teams over the 1973–77 seasons. This is a remarkable proportion of the variance to be explained by a pooled cross-section-time-series model with 86 observations. Demmert's model explained 58 percent of the variation in per capita attendance in major league baseball over the 1951–69 period and Noll's model explained 69 percent of the variation in absolute attendance at major league baseball games during 1970–71. The F-ratio indicates that our overall model is statistically significant. Our empirical estimation of the demand for minor league baseball attendance supports the general hypotheses one derives from the theory of consumer demand. As expected, the quantity demanded is negatively related to price; the elasticity of demand is less than one. Per capita income has little effect on attendance, but the quality and excitement of play seem to be important to fans. Surprisingly, winning has no effect on attendance. Promotional efforts appear to be effective in generating attendance, but paid advertising seems to be wholly ineffective.
Optimal Planar Flow Network Designs for Tissue Engineered Constructs with Built-in Vasculature

Convective delivery of nutrients is important to enhance mass transport within tissue engineered (TE) products. Depending on the target tissue, an ideal TE product will have an integrated microvasculature that will eliminate mass transport limitations that can occur during product growth in vitro and integration in vivo. A synthetic approach to develop microvasculature involves development of network designs with efficient mass transfer characteristics. In this paper, utilizing a planar bifurcating network as a basis, we develop an approach to design optimal flow networks that have maximum mass transport efficiency for a given pressure drop. We formulated the optimization problem for a TE skin product, incorporating two types of duct flow, rectangular and square, and solved using a generalized reduced gradient algorithm. Under the conditions of this study, we found that rectangular ducts have superior mass transport characteristics than square ducts. Microvascular area per volume values obtained in this work are significantly greater than those reported in the literature. We discuss the effect of network variables such as porosity and generations on the optimal designs. This research forms the engineering basis for the rational development of TE products with built-in microvasculature and will pave the way to design complex flow networks with optimal mass transfer characteristics.
Influence of Host Foliage on the Douglas-fir Tussock Moth

Douglas-fir tussock moth (Orgyia pseudotsugata (McDunnough)) larvae were fed foliage obtained from the top and bottom of the crowns of Douglas-fir, grand fir, and subalpine fir under controlled laboratory conditions. High density field populations were simulated by forcing larvae to feed upon old-growth foliage creating a stress factor that was detrimental to the population. The host plant and crown position had a significant effect on frass production, head-capsule size, and pupal weight. The number of eggs produced was significantly greater from foliage obtained from the top of the crown. The most significant factor was whether larvae were forced to feed upon old-growth foliage. This “stress” resulted in increased development time, frass production, number of instars and decreased head capsule size, and egg production.
Modeling the 1998–2003 summer circulation and thermal structure in Lake Michigan

[1] A three-dimensional primitive equation numerical model was applied to Lake Michigan on a 2 km grid for 6 consecutive years to study interannual variability of summer circulation and thermal structure in 1998–2003. The model results were compared to long-term observations of currents and temperature at seven moorings and two NOAA buoys. The accuracy of modeled currents improved considerably relative to previous summer circulation modeling done on a 5 km grid, while the accuracy of temperature simulations remained the same. Particle trajectory model results were also compared with satellite-tracked surface drifter observations. Large-scale circulation patterns tend to be more cyclonic (counterclockwise) toward the end of summer as the thermocline deepens and density effects become more important. Circulation in southern Lake Michigan appears to be more variable than circulation in northern Lake Michigan. An important new feature not previously seen in observations was found in southern Lake Michigan: an anticyclonic gyre extending northward from the southern shore of Lake Michigan, sometimes occupying the entire southern basin.
Exploiting Symmetry When Verifying Transitor-Level Circuits by Symbolic Trajectory Evaluation

In this paper we describe the use of symmetry for verification of transistor-level circuits by symbolic trajectory evaluation. We show that exploiting symmetry can allow one to verify systems several orders of magnitude larger than otherwise possible. We classify symmetries in circuits as structural symmetries, arising from similarities in circuit structure, data symmetries, arising from similarities in the handling of data values, and mixed structural-data symmetries. We use graph isomorphism testing and symbolic simulation to verify the symmetries in the original circuit. Using conservative approximations, we partition a circuit to expose the symmetries in its components, and construct reduced system models which can be verified efficiently. We have verified Static Random Access Memory circuits with up to 1.5 Million transistors.
Tumor Necrosis Factor-Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand Can Induce Apoptosis in Subsets of Premalignant Cells

During the transformation from a normal to a malignant cell, several mutations are required to bypass the pathways responsible for controlling proliferation. Premalignant cells have acquired some, but not all of these mutations and consequently have not yet attained a malignant phenotype characterized by tumor formation in vivo. Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) can induce apoptosis in malignant cells while sparing normal ones and is currently being considered as adjuvant therapy for various human malignancies. Whether TRAIL is effective in inducing apoptosis in premalignant cells is unclear, however. We studied the effect of TRAIL on two human premalignant cell lines the SV7tert and HA1E cells. Both cell lines had been immortalized by the addition of simian virus 40 large T antigen and the telomerase subunit hTERT, but had not been transformed into malignant cells. TRAIL initiated apoptosis by activating both the mitochondrial-independent and -dependent apoptotic pathways in both cell lines at relatively low doses whereas it had no effect on normal human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells even at high doses. These results suggest that TRAIL can induce apoptosis in premalignant cells and suggests a novel therapy for the treatment of premalignant lesions in vivo.
BenchFriend: Correlating the performance of GPU benchmarks

Graphics processing units GPUs have become an important platform for general-purpose computing, thanks to their high parallel throughput and high memory bandwidth. GPUs present significantly different architectures from CPUs and require specific mappings and optimizations to achieve high performance. This makes GPU workloads demonstrate application characteristics different from those of CPU workloads. It is critical for researchers to understand the first-order metrics that most influence GPU performance and scalability. Furthermore, methodologies and associated tools are needed to analyze and predict the performance of GPU applications and help guide users' purchasing decisions. In this work, we study the approach of predicting the performance of GPU applications by correlating them to existing workloads. One tenet of benchmark design, also a motivation of this paper, is that users should be given the capability to leverage standard workloads to infer the performance of applications of their interest. We first identify a set of important GPU application characteristics and then use them to predict performance of an arbitrary application by determining its most similar proxy benchmarks. We demonstrate the prediction methodology and conduct predictions with benchmarks from different suites to achieve better workload coverage. The experimental results show that we are able to achieve satisfactory performance predictions, although errors are higher for outlier applications. Finally, we discuss several considerations for systematically constructing future benchmark suites.
ANALYSIS OF AN EAST TENNESSEE OAK HICKORY FOREST BY CANONICAL CORRELATION OF SPECIES AND ENVIRONMENTAL PARAMETERS

A new multivariate analytical technique, canonical group correlation (CGC) is developed to correlate abiotic and biotic characterization of communities. This technique is applied to the plant communities of a 97.5 ha oak-hickory watershed. This analysis has validated inferences drawn in earlier studies which used only species data. We have concluded that the dominant factors discriminating the four distinct types of vegetation which exist in the region being studied are age and slope position. Slope position is inferred to be correlated with a moisture gradient. This information is depicted by the location of the four community types in two canonical spaces. One space is determined by vegetational parameters (species composition), the other by environmental parameters. A linear transformation between the two spaces is derived. This transformation can be used to predict successional development.
Long-lived electron capture dissociation product ions experience radical migration via hydrogen abstraction.

To explore the mechanism of electron capture dissociation (ECD) of linear peptides, a set of 16-mer peptides were synthesized with deuterium labeled on the α-carbon position of four glycines. The ECD spectra of these peptides showed that such peptides exhibit a preference for the radical to migrate to the α-carbon position on glycine via hydrogen (or deuterium) abstraction before the final cleavage and generation of the detected product ions. The data show c-type fragment ions, ions corresponding to the radical cation of the c-type fragments, c·, and they also show c·-1 peaks in the deuterated peptides only. The presence of the c·-1 peaks is best explained by radical-mediated scrambling of the deuterium atoms in the long-lived, metastable, radical intermediate complex formed by initial electron capture, followed by dissociation of the complex. These data suggest the presence of at least two mechanisms, one slow, one fast. The abundance of H· and −CO losses from the precursor ion changed upon deuterium labeling indicating the presence of a kinetic isotope effect, which suggests that the values reported here represent an underestimation of radical migration and H/D scrambling in the observed fragments.
Prophylactic oxacillin in dog bite wounds

This prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was undertaken to determine the value of prophylactic oxacillin in dog bites. Adult patients with uninfected full-thickness wounds presenting within 24 hours of injury were considered. Management consisted of cleansing, irrigation, debridement, and closure as indicated; no topical antibiotics were applied. Patients were randomly assigned to receive oxacillin 500 mg QID × 5 days or identically appearing placebo. Home wound care was standardized and patients were observed at least every 2 days. Clinical assessment of infection was confirmed microbiologically. Sixty-three patients were admitted and 46 completed the study. Oxacillin (22) and placebo (24) groups were identical in sex, age, number of wounds per patient, wound location and type, number of open and closed wounds, delay to presentation, length of follow-up observation, medication compliance, and adequacy of patient wound care. Two infections of the hand occurred in patients receiving oxacillin; no infections were seen among placebo-treated patients (P = NS). Prophylactic oxacillin was not associated with improved outcome. We do not advise the use of prophylactic antibiotics in dog bite injuries treated within 24 hours of accident.
Personalized oncology: Recent advances and future challenges

Personalized oncology is evidence-based, individualized medicine that delivers the right care to the right cancer patient at the right time and results in measurable improvements in outcomes and a reduction on health care costs. Evolving topics in personalized oncology such as genomic analysis, targeted drugs, cancer therapeutics and molecular diagnostics will be discussed in this review. Biomarkers and molecular individualized medicine are replacing the traditional "one size fits all" medicine. In the next decade the treatment of cancer will move from a reactive to a proactive discipline. The essence of personalized oncology lies in the use of biomarkers. These biomarkers can be from tissue, serum, urine or imaging and must be validated. Personalized oncology based on biomarkers is already having a remarkable impact. Three different types of biomarkers are of particular importance: predictive, prognostic and early response biomarkers. Tools for implementing preemptive medicine based on genetic and molecular diagnostic and interventions will improve cancer prevention. Imaging technologies such as Computed Tomography (CT) and Positron Emitted Tomography (PET) are already influencing the early detection and management of the cancer patient. Future advances in imaging are expected to be in the field of molecular imaging, integrated diagnostics, biology driven interventional radiology and theranostics. Molecular diagnostics identify individual cancer patients who are more likely to respond positively to targeted chemotherapies. Molecular diagnostics include testing for genes, gene expression, proteins and metabolites. The use of companion molecular diagnostics is expected to grow significantly in the future and will be integrated into new cancer therapies a single (bundled) package which will provide greater efficiency, value and cost savings. This approach represents a unique opportunity for integration, increased value in personalized oncology.
Substituting one risk increase for another: A method for measuring risk aversion

Abstract This paper defines the rate of substitution of one stochastic change to a random variable for another. It then focuses on the case where one of these changes is an nth degree risk increase, and the other is an mth degree risk increase, where n > m ⩾ 1 . The paper shows that the rate of substitution for these two risk increases can be used to provide a broader definition and two additional characterizations of the nth degree Ross more risk averse partial order. The implications for local intensity measures of nth degree risk aversion are also examined. The analysis organizes the existing results as well as generates new ones.
Effects of air drag on near-circular satellite orbits

solved, showing the oscillatory nature of the solutions. The solution is given in its more general form, which includes nonzero initial conditions and which shows that the oscillatory terms depend very strongly on the initial velocity, i.e., the initial departure from an exactly circular orbit. Next, the case of large descent into exponentially increasing atmosphere is solved. The solution includes the oscillatory terms that tend to die out with the descent. In the last section, the effects of diurnal variations and atmospheric oblateness are treated. It is shown that effects of diurnal variations can be pronounced, but that the effects of atmospheric oblateness are relatively small. Numerical examples are included.
Effects of protein versus simple sugar intake on weight loss in polycystic ovary syndrome (according to the National Institutes of Health criteria).

Objective To compare the effects of protein vs. simple sugars on weight loss, body composition, and metabolic and endocrine parameters in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Design A 2-month, free-living, randomized, single-blinded study. Setting University PCOS clinic. Patient(s) Thirty-three patients with PCOS. Intervention(s) To achieve a final energy reduction of 450 kcal/day, first the daily energy intake was reduced by 700 kcal; then a 240-kcal supplement containing either whey protein or simple sugars was added. Main Outcome Measure(s) Changes in weight, fat mass, fasting glucose and insulin, plasma lipoproteins, and sex steroids. Result(s) Twenty-four subjects (13 in the simple sugars group and 11 in the protein group) completed the study. The protein group lost more weight (−3.3 ± 0.8 kg vs. −1.1 ± 0.6 kg) and more fat mass (−3.1 ± 0.9 kg vs. −0.5 ± 0.6 kg) and had larger decreases in serum cholesterol (−33.0 ± 8.4 mg/dL vs. −2.3 ± 6.8 mg/dL), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (−4.5 ± 1.3 mg/dL vs. −0.4 ± 1.3 mg/dL), and apoprotein B (−20 ± 5 mg/dL vs. 3 ± 5 mg/dL). Conclusion(s) In patients with PCOS, a hypocaloric diet supplemented with protein reduced body weight, fat mass, serum cholesterol, and apoprotein B more than the diet supplemented with simple sugars.
Connection between central force model treatment of polyatomic molecular liquids and the interaction site cluster expansion

The connection between central force model (CFM) treatment of a polyatomic molecular liquid and the interaction site cluster expansion results is investigated. We demonstrate an exact cancellation of cluster diagrammatic contributions in the CFM treatment which occurs when chemical bonding interactions are assumed to saturate at the diatomic level. The results following from the CFM and the interaction site cluster expansion are shown to be the same when this cancellation is explicitly incorporated in the CFM treatment. These results provide an exact criterion for physically correct approximate treatment of chemical bonding interactions within a CFM.
Transnational Community in Demetria Martínez's Mother Tongue

Relying on feminist theory concerning difference, identity, gender, and solidarity, “Transnational Community in Demetria Martinez’s Mother Tongue ” reads Martinez’s 1994 novel through a transnational feminist lens. I point out that Mother Tongue complicates identification with the other and resists the impulse by characters to elide national, racial, and sexual difference. However, the articulation of community identities and the portrayal of characters as members of both oppressed communities and communities in resistance offers a new and provocative way to understand how individuals interact with identity and attend to important differences while nonetheless working for global change. The resulting analysis contributes to literary scholarship that seeks to understand how characters, authors, critics, and activists create and articulate transnational identities, an analysis particularly relevant given the history of intervention of the U.S. in El Salvador and the recent historic presidential elections in both nations.
Learning from failure in health care reform.

Jonathan Oberlander writes that just a year after its introduction in September 1993, the Clinton Health Security Act was dead in Congress. What happened to the Clinton plan, and what lessons can today's reformers learn from its failure? Jonathan Oberlander discusses the pitfalls of the Clinton health care plan of 1993, the obstacles to reforming the U.S. health care system, and the outlook for the future. Dr. Oberlander is an associate professor of social medicine and of health policy and administration at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.
Rubella Antibodies in Human Serum: Detection by the Indirect Fluorescent-Antibody Technique.

Antibodies for rubella virus were detected in human serum and titrated by the indirect method of immunofluorescence; a chronically infected, continuous line of monkey kidney cells was used as antigen. Positive reactions were obtained with serums from convalescent patients or persons who had been exposed to the virus while serums from patients in the acute stage of the disease and those from unexposed individuals were negative
MIGRATION OF AN EXTRADURAL CATHETER INTO THE SUBDURAL SPACE A Case Report

After repeated, successful extradural injections in a parturient, the extradural catheter migrated into the subdural space. The injection of 3% chloro-procaine 10 ml resulted in an extensive block, which extended to the cranial nerves and paralysed the respiratory muscles. The position of the catheter tip was confirmed by fluoroscopy. Subdural injection should always be suspected when tests for subarachnoid injection are negative, but an extensive block occurs gradually within 15–20 min. Respiration and circulation should be supported until the block regresses.
Cytomegalovirus infection of the laryngeal nerve presenting as hoarseness in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.

C ytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is by far the most common opportunistic viral infection in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) [l] and has been reported to involve virtually every organ in the body [2,3]. Though difficult to treat, some limited success has been observed with ganciclovir therapy for CMV retinitis and gastrointestinal disease [4]. We encountered two patients with AIDS in whom hoarseness developed due to CMV involvement of the recurrent laryngeal nerve during administration of ganciclovir for CMV colitis.
Control of one invasive plant species allows exotic grasses to become dominant in northern Great Plains grasslands.

Abstract Decline of leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula) in the northern Great Plains of the US is generally viewed as a success story for biological control, but quality of the vegetation that survived the infestation is key to recovery of ecosystem function. In addition, effects of other invasive species, notably cool-season exotic grasses, must be taken into account. Objectives of this study were (1) to evaluate direction and significance of changes in biomass of native and exotic grasses, forbs, and leafy spurge and in plant species composition following control of leafy spurge by flea beetles and (2) to evaluate the relative effects of leafy spurge and exotic grasses on biomass of native grasses, biomass of forbs, and richness of native species. We monitored species composition (1998–2003 and 2008) and biomass (2000, 2002, 2003 and 2008) of these groups on spurge-infested and noninfested permanent plots at three sites with unbroken prairie sod in North Dakota, USA. We found little evidence, in terms of species richness or biomass of native grasses or forbs, that leafy spurge was being replaced by desirable native species, although desirable as well as weedy and exotic species were characteristic of 2008 vegetation at all three sites. Structural equation models revealed that leafy spurge had temporally intermittent negative effects on forb biomass and species richness, but no effects on native grasses. In contrast, exotic grass had consistently strong, negative effects on native grass biomass, as well as stronger negative effects than leafy spurge on native species richness. Although substantial native plant diversity remains at these sites, exotic grasses pose an important threat to these crucial building blocks of native prairie ecosystems.
Percutaneous, intramuscular neuromuscular electrical stimulation for the treatment of shoulder subluxation and pain in chronic hemiplegia: a case report

This case report describes the first survivor with chronic stroke who was treated with percutaneous, intramuscular neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) for shoulder subluxation and pain. The patient developed shoulder subluxation and pain within 2 mo of his stroke. After discharge from acute inpatient rehabilitation, he developed shoulder and hand pain, which was treated with subacromial bursa steroid injection and ibuprofen with eventual resolution. The patient remained clinically stable until approximately 15 mo after his stroke-when he developed severe shoulder pain associated with shoulder abduction, external rotation, and downward traction. The patient could not tolerate transcutaneous NMES because of the pain of stimulation. At approximately 17 mo post-stroke, the patient's posterior deltoid, middle deltoid, and supraspinatus muscles were percutaneously implanted with intramuscular electrodes. After 6 wk of percutaneous, intramuscular NMES treatment, marked improvements in shoulder subluxation and pain, and modest improvements in activities of daily living and motor function were noted. One year after the onset of treatment, the patient remained pain free, but subluxation had recurred. However, the patient was able to volitionally reduce the subluxation by abducting his shoulder. The patient remained pain free for up to 40 mo after the initiation of percutaneous, intramuscular NMES treatment. This case report demonstrates the feasibility of using percutaneous, intramuscular NMES for treating shoulder subluxation and pain in hemiplegia.
Teachers' Reinforcement of Sex-Preferred Behaviors in Dutch Preschools

4-yr.-old children were observed in three Dutch preschools. Significant sex differences in play were found in all schools. These differences were similar to those reported in studies of American preschools. In contrast to American preschool teachers who have been reported to reinforce feminine-preferred behaviors for both boys and girls, these Dutch preschool teachers reinforced children for behaviors preferred by their own sex.
Importance of HLA-DQ and HLA-DP polymorphisms in cytokine responses to naturally processed HLA-DR-derived measles virus peptides.

We studied the association between class II human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-DRB1*0301 presented measles virus (MV) peptide-specific cytokine responses and DQB1 and DPB1 alleles among 313 individuals who received two doses of measles–mumps–rubella-II vaccine. The overall median IFN-γ secretion levels (first and third quartiles) for the 19-amino acid MV phosphoprotein (MV-P)- and 14-amino acid MV nucleoprotein (MV-N)-derived peptides were 27.7 pg/ml (1.8, 109.4) and 1.9 pg/ml (−6.2, 13.0), respectively; median IL-4 secretion levels were −0.6 pg/ml (−7.1, 6.2) and 2.4 pg/ml (−3.2, 9.3), respectively. Primary statistical analyses were adjusted for previously identified DRB1 associations. A marginally significant increase in the frequency of the DQB1*0604 (p = 0.02) allele was found among subjects who demonstrated detectable IL-4 levels to the MV-P peptide. Further, DPB1*0201 (p = 0.02) and DPB1*1301 (p = 0.09) alleles provided suggestive evidence of an association with MV-P-induced IL-4 secretion. Examination of IFN-γ responses to MV-P and MV-N indicated that none of the individual alleles of the DQB1 and DPB1 loci were associated with peptide-induced T cell response. An increase in the frequency of DPB1*0501 (p = 0.01) was found among subjects who failed to produce MV-N peptide-specific IL-4 responses. These data further confirm that HLA-DRB1 alleles are the major restriction molecules for MV-P and MV-N measles virus antigen presentation to T cells. We speculate that MV-P and MV-N peptides derived from DRB1*0301 could potentially be recognized in association with different HLA molecules, including DQB1 and DPB1; however, statistical adjustments for the effect of HLA-DR locus could potentially alter these genetic relationships. This concept provides important information supporting the use of promiscuous peptides in a peptide-based vaccine approach.
Parents’ socializing behavior and children’s participation in math, science, and computer out-of-school activities

This study examined associations between multiple parental behaviors and children's participation in out-of-school math, science, and computer activities for children in 2nd (n = 125), 3rd (n = 123), and 5th grade (n = 200). Mothers and fathers reported how often they encouraged their children's activities, participated in activities with their child, provided activity-related materials, and participated in activities themselves, as well as how often their children participated in activities. The youth described how often they participated in math, science, and computer activities. Results indicate that parents' behavior is a strong, positive predictor of children's participation. Although there were significant mean level gender differences, relations between parents' behavior and children's participation were similar for boys and girls.
Parallel polynomial arithmetic over finite rings

Abstract Convolution algorithms for polynomial multiplication are well known, as is the use of Residue Number Systems and the Chinese Remainder Theorem. This paper discusses how these techniques may be used to perform polynomial arithmetic over very large rings or finite fields. The algorithm is practical and structured so that it can be implemented very efficiently on either a shared memory or a message passing parallel computer. We discuss the mathematical basis of the algorithm and contrast its performance on an Alliant FX/8 and a Symult S2010. These are, respectively, shared memory and message passing parallel computers.
Triphasic oral contraceptives: review and comparison of various regimens.

Abstract Objective: To review and compare the risk-benefit profile of triphasic oral contraceptives with that of low-dose monophasic oral contraceptives. Design: Literature on currently marketed triphasics and monophasics. Patient(s): Healthy women of reproductive age. Main Outcome Measure(s): Comparison of the rationale for development, composition, mechanism, efficacy, menstrual cycle control, side effects, health benefits, and risk-benefit profile. Result(s): All triphasics contain ethinyl estradiol (0.025–0.040 mg/d) and one of several progestins in doses (0.05–1.0 mg/d) related to their relative potencies, which are substantially lower overall (total dose) than those in monophasics. The triphasics are highly efficacious. In general, menstrual cycle control and side effects are similar in both types, but triphasics containing the newer progestins (desogestrel, gestodene, and norgestimate) have better cycle control and a reduced incidence of androgenic side effects compared with those with norethindrone or levonorgestrel. Both triphasics and monophasics have minimal effects on carbohydrate and lipid metabolism and hemostasis parameters, and therefore comparable low risks of coronary heart disease. The health benefits of triphasics and monophasics are similar and include decreased incidence of unwanted and ectopic pregnancies, ovarian cysts, endometrial and ovarian cancers, benign breast disease, and acute pelvic inflammatory disease; less menstrual blood loss and iron deficiency anemia; and lower frequency of irregular bleeding and menorrhagia. Conclusion(s): The risk-benefit profiles of both triphasics and monophasics are favorable and similar.
Diffusivity and thermodynamic properties of diopside and jadeite melts by computer simulation studies

Abstract We report the results of ion dynamics computer experiments on two liquid silicates of geochemical interest in which the charge characteristics of the cations other than Si cause differences in the extent to which the integrity of the open network structure of liquid SiO 2 is maintained. The two cases are jadeite, the transport behavior of which was described in an earlier paper, and diopside. The focus of the study is on the pressure-density relations. In diopside, Mg is found to exist in four-fold coordination up to pressures above 50 kbar at 4000 K while Ca, like Na in jadeite, has a large and poorly defined coordination. Likewise, Ca in diopside is the most mobile element at low pressures but becomes jammed at high pressures. The activation volume corresponds to the ion volume. Both melts show highly similar pressure-density relations, the compressibility of jadeite becoming larger than that of diopside only below 30 kbar. The calculated values fall between the measured value for diopside and the estimated value of jadeite, but show the same form of pressure dependence. By taking advantage of the low probability of cavitation in simulated systems, we carry the simulations into the expanded, negative pressure region, to show how the increasing compressibility at low pressures is a reflection of the impending mechanical stability limit which is found at weakly negative pressures at the temperatures of these simulations.
Dynamic speech representations in the human temporal lobe

Speech perception requires rapid integration of acoustic input with context-dependent knowledge. Recent methodological advances have allowed researchers to identify underlying information representations in primary and secondary auditory cortex and to examine how context modulates these representations. We review recent studies that focus on contextual modulations of neural activity in the superior temporal gyrus (STG), a major hub for spectrotemporal encoding. Recent findings suggest a highly interactive flow of information processing through the auditory ventral stream, including influences of higher-level linguistic and metalinguistic knowledge, even within individual areas. Such mechanisms may give rise to more abstract representations, such as those for words. We discuss the importance of characterizing representations of context-dependent and dynamic patterns of neural activity in the approach to speech perception research.
A Principal’s Dilemma Full Inclusion or Student’s Best Interests?

This case highlights one principal’s struggle to reconcile his philosophy of full inclusion with the best interests of a student with serious emotional disturbance. It raises a number of issues that bring to light challenges posed by a system of full inclusion. It also provides an opportunity for educational leadership students and administrators to critically confront and appreciate the ethical and legal dilemmas presented in the provision of special education services to students with serious disabilities.
Cerebral Venous Thrombosis Combined Intrathrombus rtPA and Intravenous Heparin

Background and Purpose—We chose to evaluate the safety and efficacy of combined intrathrombus rtPA and intravenous heparin in cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT). Methods—We treated 12 patients with symptoms of 1 to 40 days’ duration (eg, headache, somnolence, focal deficits, seizures, and nausea and vomiting). Pretreatment MRI disclosed subtle hemorrhagic venous infarction in 4 patients, obvious hemorrhagic infarction in 2, small parenchymal hemorrhage from recent pallidotomy in 1, and no focal lesion in 5. Magnetic resonance venography and contrast venography identified thrombi in the superior sagittal sinus (SSS) in 3 patients; transverse/sigmoid sinus (TS/SS) in 2; SSS and both TS/SS in 1; SSS and 1 TS/SS in 5; and SSS, 1 TS/SS, and straight sinus in 1 patient. A loading dose of rtPA was instilled throughout the clot at 1 mg/cm, followed by continuous intrathrombus infusion at 1 to 2 mg/h. Intravenous heparin was infused concomitantly. Results—Flow was restored completely in 6 patients and partially in 3...
Harmonic Dispersion Analysis of Incremental Waves in Uniaxially Prestressed Plastic and Viscoplastic Bars, Plates, and Unbounded Media

The equations governing the propagation of infinitesimal incremental loading stress waves in a medium prestressed uniaxially into the plastic region are derived for a strain-rate-independent and a strain-rate-dependent constitutive equation. These equations, applied to a circular rod, a flat plate, and an unbounded medium, are solved using harmonic analysis to give the phase-velocity dispersion curves for component waves as a function of frequency. The results of this analysis are compared to the corresponding elastic dispersion curves.
Low-mass black holes as the remnants of primordial black hole formation.

Between low-end stellar-mass black holes and top-end supermassive black holes, lie the elusive intermediate black holes. Jenny Greene reviews the search for these black holes in galaxy centres, which should indicate if supermassive black holes grew from stellar-mass ones or if a more complex process was needed.
Interface-usability evaluation: science of trade-offs

The effectiveness of four techniques in evaluating the usability of a graphical user interface is presented. The techniques are heuristic evaluation, usability testing, guidelines, and cognitive walkthrough. The techniques are compared as to the number, type, and severity of the problems each could identify for a specific product. >
Magnetic circular dichroism spectra of the methyl halides. Resolution of the n → σ* continuum

Abstract The MCD (magnetic circular dichroism) of CH 3 l, CH 3 Br and CH 3 Cl has been studied in the spectral region of the n → σ * continuum (3500-1700 A). The MCD spectrum of CH 3 I makes it possible to resolve the three excited states contributing to the continuum. The peak energies and the oscillator strengths of the components are obtained.
Molecular markers for colorectal cancer screening

Colorectal cancer (CRC), although a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, has seen a declining incidence and mortality in countries with programmatic screening. Faecal occult blood testing and endoscopic approaches are the predominant screening methods currently. The discovery of the adenoma-carcinoma sequence and a greater understanding of the genetic and epigenetic changes that drive the formation of CRC have contributed to innovative research to identify molecular markers for highly accurate, non-invasive screening tests for CRC. DNA, proteins, messenger RNA and micro-RNA have all been evaluated. The observation of tumour cell exfoliation into the mucocellular layer of the colonic epithelium and proven stability of DNA in a harsh stool environment make stool DNA a particularly promising marker. The development of a clinically useful stool DNA test has required numerous technical advances, including optimisation in DNA stabilisation, the development of assays with high analytical sensitivity, and the identification of specific and broadly informative molecular markers. A multitarget stool DNA test, which combines mutant and methylated DNA markers and a faecal immunochemical test, recently performed favourably in a large cross-sectional validation study and has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the screening of asymptomatic, average-risk individuals. The ultimate way in which molecular marker screening assays will be used in clinical practice will require additional studies to determine optimal screening intervals, factors affecting compliance, management of false-positive results, and the use of these assays in high-risk populations, as well as other considerations.
Lessons learned from the application of online homework generation modules in a signals and systems course

Online engineering education tools present students with flexible access to local/distance learning resources and offer an opportunity to maintain student engagement via the use of dynamic interfaces. This paper addresses lessons learned from the creation and use of online homework generation modules in an electrical engineering signals and systems course. The nine modules address complex number calculations, complex conversions, signal graphing, zero input response, unit impulse response, Fourier series, and fast Fourier transforms. The primary goal was to create an innovative and engaging set of online learning experiences that would allow faculty to assess the transfer of mathematical knowledge from calculus and differential equations courses to subsequent electrical engineering courses. These modules offer student specific problem generation and automatic grading, where the latter accelerates the feedback cycle and provides tool scalability to large numbers of students. The tools are easily upgradable and offer the opportunity to track, through a database, elements of the student learning process that often go unrecorded but yield a rich data set for correlating performance on related subjects in current, previous, or subsequent semesters. The modules have been employed nine semesters to date, and student survey data from these experiences supplement data stored in the database files and data recorded from written examinations. Student reactions to these tools have been generally positive, where the ease of answer entry plays a large role in the experience. Quantitative correlations between module scores, grades on written examinations, and performance in previous mathematics courses have demonstrated variable clarity, but qualitative assessments of the technology-facilitated environment point to a clear increase in student learning and engagement. Instructor benefits are apparent with regard to grading time saved, grading consistency, confidence in student accountability for work submitted, and information regarding when/where students work that is difficult to obtain any other way.
Evidence of host adaptation in Lawsonia intracellularis infections

Background: Lawsonia intracellularis is the causative agent of proliferative enteropathy, an endemic disease in pigs and an emerging concern in horses. Enterocyte hyperplasia is a common lesion in every case but there are differences regarding clinical and pathological presentations among affected species. We hypothesize that host susceptibility to L. intracellularis infection depends on the species of origin of the bacterial isolate. The objective of this study was to evaluate the susceptibilities of pigs and horses to L. intracellularis infection using either a porcine or an equine isolate. Materials and methods: Twelve foals and eighteen pigs were equally divided into three groups and infected with either a porcine or an equine isolate (10 9 L. Intracellularis/challenged animal), and a saline solution (negative control group). The animals were monitored regarding clinical signs, average of daily weight gain, fecal shedding of the bacteria by PCR and humoral serological response. Results: Foals infected with the equine isolate developed moderate to severe clinical signs and maintained a lower average of weight gain compared to control foals. Fecal quantitative PCR in equine isolate-infected foals revealed higher amounts of bacterial DNA associated with longer duration of shedding compared with porcine isolateinfected foals. All four foals infected with the equine isolate demonstrated higher IgG titers in the serum compared with porcine isolate-infected foals. In the pig trial, diarrhea and seroconversion were only observed in animals infected with the porcine isolate. Pathological changes typical of proliferative enteropathy were observed in the necropsied foal infected with equine isolate and in the two necropsied pigs infected with the porcine isolate. Conclusions: Evident clinical signs, longer periods of bacterial shedding and stronger serologic immune responses were observed in animals infected with species-specific isolates. These results show that host susceptibility is driven by the origin of the isolated L. intracellularis strain.
Rhetorical figures in headings and their effect on text processing: the moderating role of information relevance and text length

Professionals involved in the creation of text-based communication face a number of challenges. These include overburdened and often uninterested users juxtaposed with the writer's desire to communicate relevant topical information. Uninvolved users are likely to ignore the message. This may be exacerbated by increases in text length designed to increase the amount and/or detail of information to be communicated. An experiment was conducted to examine the effect of rhetorical figures in text headings as to how users read and process the text (hereafter readership, as used in marketing). To the extent that higher levels of text readership increase user knowledge and skills, enhance topic-related attitudes, and facilitate beneficial topic-related behaviors, higher readership should yield desirable communication outcomes. Headings with rhetorical figures were hypothesized to enhance readership, particularly under conditions generally associated with relatively low readership, namely, lower perceived information relevance and longer text. Results generally support rhetorical figures' abilities to enhance readership, especially with longer texts.