cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Should short, relatively complex algorithms be taught using both graphical and verbal methods? Six replications

This research investigates the preference for a graphical method (structured flowcharts) or for a verbal method (pseudocode) when learning short, relatively complex algorithms. The research summarizes the data from 6 replications using 193 students of data structures and 16 data structures classes. A preference for flowcharts was hypothesized under eight conditions. All eight conditions produced large differences which were statistically significant, p
When first we practice to deceive: arresting online copyright infringement through the Digital Millennium Copyright Act

The problem of internet copyright infringement is one of the important copyright challenges of the day. In 1998, the US Congress undertook to address this issue by passing the Online Copyright Infringement Liability Limitation Act, which provides 'safe harbour' immunity to Internet Service Providers (ISPs) from vicarious liability claims for subscriber infringement. Some recent court decisions interpreting the act, however, threaten this balance of the pertinent internet constituent interests. This article proposes that these court decisions misconstrue the terms of the act, and contravene the express objectives of the statute, by needlessly entangling ISPs in infringement disputes between copyright holders and internet end-users.
Mitral valve leaflet excursion velocity in the pediatric population: A comparable diastolic index to the color M-mode propagation velocity

Color M-mode (CMM) Doppler flow propagation velocity (Vp) is a reliable diastolic index, but may be difficult to define. We hypothesized that because the valve is opened by flow, the anterior mitral leaflet excursion velocity (MEV Apex ), interrogated from the cardiac apex, may be similar to the CMM-Vp. We investigated the MEV Apex by apical M-mode echocardiography in 49 children and adolescents with normal echocardiograms, and compared it with the CMM-Vp and other indices. The mean CMM-Vp and MEV Apex were similar (41.5 ± 6 vs 40 ± 5.7, respectively, mean ± SD; P = .5) and correlated positively ( r = 0.71, P Apex correlated well (2.54 ± 0.58 vs 2.52 ± 0.58, respectively, mean ± SD; r = 0.857, P Apex is comparable with the CMM-Vp and the E/MEV Apex with E/Vp. The Vp may be assessed either by CMM or conventional M-mode from the apex. In our experience, the latter is easier to do. Study in other populations is warranted.
Female mate choice in the cichlid fish Cichlasoma nigrofasciatum

Abstract Male body size (standard length) and prior reproductive experience were tested for their influence on the mate choice of naive female convict cichlid fish, Cichlasoma nigrofasciatum . Females showed no preference based on male reproductive experience, but significantly preferred the larger of two males. The possibility that the size dimorphism is a sexually-selected trait in male C. nigrofasciatum is discussed. Individual broods of C. nigrofasciatum were reared and sexually mature animals measured to determine the relationship between sex, age and size. Males of the same age showed sufficient size variation to serve as a basis for female choice. Thus the size variation necessary for selection to operate exists in male C. nigrofasciatum . These data suggest that male body size may be a sexually-selected trait in this monogamous cichlid species.
Low Plasma Adiponectin Levels Predict Progression of Coronary Artery Calcification

Background— Circulating adiponectin levels are lower in men than in women and lower in advanced coronary artery disease, obesity, and type 2 but not type 1 diabetes. However, it is not known whether low adiponectin levels predict development of atherosclerosis independently of other cardiovascular risk factors. Methods and Results— Progression of coronary artery calcification (CAC) over an average of 2.6 years (range, 1.6 to 3.3) was assessed in a cohort of patients with type 1 diabetes and nondiabetic subjects 19 to 59 years of age. In this nested case-control substudy, plasma adiponectin levels were measured in 101 cases with significant CAC progression and in 205 controls. Controls were oversampled on the basis of age, gender, diabetes status, and presence of baseline CAC. In conditional logistic regression adjusted for baseline CAC volume and other significant predictors of CAC progression, adiponectin levels were inversely related to progression of CAC in diabetic (OR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.24 to 0.94) and...
A re-review of caspule endoscopies of patients referred for deep enteroscopy changes their management

Abstract Background Patients are commonly referred to tertiary centers for deep enteroscopy because of abnormal findings on video capsule endoscopy (VCE). The aim of this study was to determine how often clinical management changes when VCEs are reviewed by an enteroscopist prior to scheduling a procedure. Methods A retrospective review was performed of patients referred for deep enteroscopy because of abnormal capsule endoscopy. All VCE images were reviewed prospectively by the tertiary center's enteroscopist. Patients were then scheduled for deep enteroscopy or other management based on the capsule review. The rate of disagreement in the capsule findings, changes in management, and the diagnostic and therapeutic yield of enteroscopy were calculated. Results Video capsule endoscopy was available in 45 patients who were referred for deep enteroscopy. The mean age was 61 years (51% were females). Indications included obscure GI bleeding (37 patients), abnormal imaging (3 patients), abdominal pain (2 patients), Peutz-Jegher syndrome (2 patients), and weight loss (1 patient). Referring physician findings included polyps or masses (13 patients), angioectasia (13 patients), ulcers (9 patients), active bleeding (9 patients), nonspecific findings (8 patients), and normal (2 patients). A capsule review led to disagreement of the findings of 13 (29%) patients and led to a change in the management of 9 (20%) patients. The most common reason for a change in management was overcalled lesions. Thirty-seven patients underwent enteroscopy with a diagnostic yield of 48.8% and therapeutic intervention in 24.4%. Conclusion A review of referral VCE studies led to a change in management in a large percentage of patients, particularly when the indication was polyp, mass, or ulcer. Patients referred for deep enteroscopy should have their capsule re-read by an enteroscopist prior to scheduling the procedure.
Microfabricated polymer-based neural interface for electrical stimulation/recording, drug delivery, and chemical sensing - development

We present here a microfabricated, multi-functional neural interface with the ability to selectively apply electrical and chemical stimuli, while simultaneously monitoring both electrical and chemical activity in the brain. Such a comprehensive approach is required to understand and treat neuropsychiatric disorders, such as major depressive disorder (MDD), and to understand the mechanisms underlying treatments, such as pharmaceutical therapies and deep brain stimulation (DBS). The polymer-based, multi-functional neural interface is capable of electrical stimulation and recording, targeted drug delivery, and electrochemical sensing. A variety of different electrode and fluidic channel arrangements are possible with this fabrication process. Preliminary testing has shown the suitability of these neural interfaces for in vivo electrical stimulation and recording, as well as in vitro chemical sensing. Testing of the in vitro drug delivery and combined in vivo functionalities this neural interface are currently underway.
Database buffer paging in virtual storage systems

Three models, corresponding to different sets of assumptions, are analyzed to study the behavior of a database buffer in a paging environment. The models correspond to practical situations and vary in their search strategies and replacement algorithms. The variation of I/O cost with respect to buffer size is determined for the three models. The analysis is valid for arbitrary database and buffer sizes, and the I/O cost is obtained in terms of the miss ratio, the buffer size, the number of main memory pages available for the buffer, and the relative buffer and database access costs.
Damaged-induced isolation in n-type InP by light-ion implantation

Abstract A detailed study of the insulating properties of ion-implantation induced damage in InP has been carried out for H, He, B and Be implantation. For each ion, there was found to be an optimal implantation fluence for the formation of resistive layers. At this fluence, a maximum resistivity of 10 3 to 10 4 Ω·cm was observed. Lower resistivities were observed for higher and lower implantation fluences. The primary anneal stage for the maximum resistivity layers was between 250 and 300°C. Anomalous results were observed for H implantation in that the resistivity observed depends on the test structure geometry. Measurements carried out by contacting the front and back of the damage layer gave resistivity values two orders of magnitude greater than those measured by contacting adjacent points on an epitaxial structure. For all other ions, the results obtained for the two geometries were in good agreement. It has been shown that a conductive layer produced by the proton bombardment of the underlying Fe-doped substrate gives rise to a low resistance shunt in the epitaxial study.
Dibenzobicyclo[2.2.2.]octane angiotensin II receptor antagonists

Abstract Most angiotensin II antagonists in the literature contain the biphenyltetrazole moiety. We now wish to report a new, more rigidized biphenyl replacement, namely the dibenzobicyclo[2.2.2.]octane scaffold. It was designed on the basis of the three-dimensional conformation of the biphenyltetrazole moiety of losartan, the prototypic angiotensin II antagonist. This biphenyltetrazole replacement fixes both the imidazole and the negatively charged (at physiological pH) tetrazole in the same areas of space where they are located in losartan. Other scaffolds such as a fluorene and Rebek's Cleft are also discussed.
Conflict in single-queen hymenopteran societies : the structure of conflict and processes that reduce conflict in advanced eusocial species

Social insect workers can increase their inclusive fitness by increasing colony production of reproductives, by manipulating the identity of colony reproductives in favor of individuals with greater kin-value (e.g. relatedness) to themselves, or both. The manipulative option results from the non-clonal genetic structure of insect societies and necessarily introduces conflict into insect societies. This paper examines conflict over male production, queen-rearing, and sex allocation for monogynous hymenopteran societies. The structure of conflict is shown to vary according to the particular conflict, queen mating frequency, and other factors. Importantly, there are conditions under which the actual conflict (i.e. the actual manipulation of reproduction) is predicted to be markedly less than the potential conflict (i.e. all the manipulations potentially beneficial to individual workers given the kin-value asymmetries within the colony). For example, when manipulation is costly (i.e. reduces colony productivity), or relatively ineffective (i.e. because of limitations to kin recognition ability, or counter manipulations such as worker policing) it may be selectively disfavored. Furthermore, low actual conflict may be characteristic of certain sub-sets of workers (e.g. foragers) or certain phases of colony growth (e.g. the ergonomic phase). As a result, a pluralistic rather than a typological perspective on conflict in insect societies is suggested. Low actual conflict may facilitate the evolution of colony- or group-level adaptations (i.e. attributes of individuals which have evolved to enable them to function synergistically as a colony or group, such as social foraging in honey bees and army ants), despite the non-clonal genetic structure of most insect societies. However, low levels of actual conflict between individuals need not result in group-level adaptations. The term community of interest is suggested to describe groups within which there is little or no actual conflict, whether or not group-level adaptations occur. The recently revived term superorganism is problematic, because it is often used in a categorical way, to describe whole societies. This difficulty is partly overcome by the pluralistic outlook, which would favor statements such as “foraging in the honey bee shows superorganismic properties” (i.e. group-level adaptations), rather than typological thinking such as “the honey bee colony is a superorganism”.
Pale Western Cutworm: Chemical Control and Effect on Yield of Winter Wheat in Kansas

Field tests were conducted in Kansas during 1978 to evaluate the effectiveness of various insecticidal treatments in controlling Agrotis orthogonia Morrison infestation in winter wheat. All chemical treatments significantly reduced cutworm numbers below those in the untreated check. However, only permethrin and acephate reduced larval densities below those of the endrin standard. In general, surface sprays were more effective than poisoned baits. In most instances, yields were increased by insecticidal treatment, although not significantly so.
Dolichol induces membrane leakage of liposomes composed of phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylcholine

Dolichol promotes the leakage of membranes in liposomes composed ofphosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylcholine but not liposomes composed only of phosphatidylcholine. The membrane leakage was assayed by measuring the entrapment of TEMPOcholine, a cationic spin probe, in liposomes using ESR methods. The percent of membrane leakage induced by dolichol was found to be linearly proportional to the concentrations of dolichol. It is proposed that dolichol enhances the formation of non-bilayer configurations in liposomes containing phosphatidylethanolamine, thereby inducing membrane leakage.
Sesquiterpene lactones. Constituents of diploid and polyploid Ambrosia dumosa Gray

Abstract Diploid and polyploid forms of Ambrosia dumosa Gray have been found to differ markedly in chemical constitution. From a diploid form were isolated four known lactones: coronopilin, ambrosiol, psilostachyin and parthenolide. From a polyploid form were isolated psilostachyin C and parthenolide; and two new lactones, burrodin and apoludin, the structures of which have been established. Parthenolide is the only identifiable lactonic constituent that is found in both forms.
Miniature endoscope for a combined OCT-LIF system

An endoscopic system that provides simultaneous cross-sectional imaging and fluorescence spectroscopy is described. The first application of this device was the investigation of mouse colon cancer in vivo . This system combined optical coherence tomography (OCT), which provided high-resolution cross-sectional structural information in the form of a two-dimensional image, and laser induced fluorescence (LIF), which yielded histochemical information about the tissue. The design challenge and solution of packaging these two systems with widely different optical requirements are described in detail. The illumination geometry of the endoscope was similar to earlier published OCT and LIF catheter endoscope designs. However, several unique design challenges encountered in combining these two systems have been addressed. The use of a rodprism to reduce the asymmetry in the OCT beam caused by a cylindrical window is presented. Materials selection for use with wavelengths from 325nm - 1310nm presented a challenge usually avoided in OCT endoscopes. Preliminary mouse colon data collected with this endoscopic device is compared with previous experiments performed by researchers in our lab working with an earlier bulk-optic, combined OCT-LIF system.
Stroke in Minorities

Minorities in the United States have higher stroke risks, stroke occurrence at an earlier age, and for some groups, more severe strokes than non-Hispanic whites. Factors contributing to these disparities are explored. Characteristics of African American, Hispanic, and Native American stroke risk and incidence are reviewed. The authors describe recent interventions to raise the awareness of stroke risk factors and symptoms in minorities. The importance of the problem is highlighted, and the authors suggest ways that stroke in minorities may be reduced.
Activities of biomarkers in multiple life stages of the model crustacean, Palaemonetes pugio

Increased urbanization of coastal areas has led to increased contaminant levels in adjacent sediments and waters. Consequently, many studies have been conducted to determine the potential impacts on estuarine organisms, including the grass shrimp, Palaemonetes pugio. This study investigated baseline levels of four cellular biomarkers (glutathione (GSH), lipid peroxidation (LPx), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and cholesterol (CHL)) in multiple life stages (stage IV, V, VI, and VII embryos, newly-hatched larvae, 18-day-old larvae, juveniles, and adults) of P. pugio to determine which biomarkers may potentially be useful as indicators of contaminant exposure. There was a similar pattern in both LPx and AChE levels, with a clear increase occurring from the embryonic to the adult stages. Detectable levels of AChE did not occur until embryo stage V. Glutathione shared a similar pattern to LPx and AChE from the newly-hatched larvae through the adult stage, however, it did not exhibit any distinguishable pattern overall with highly variable levels among all life stages. Likewise, CHL did not exhibit any distinguishable pattern, but in contrast, CHL levels were similar throughout all life stages. This research provides valuable background information that may be used in future assessments of grass shrimp population health.
Photoaffinity-labeled Cytokinins: Synthesis and Biological Activity.

Two new azidopurine derivatives, 2-azido-N6-(Δ2-isopentenyl)adenine and 2-azido-N6-benzyladenine, have been synthesized as potential photoaffinity labels for probing cytokinin-binding sites. The preparation and the biological activity of these compounds are described.
Direct Demonstration of the Activation of UDP-N-Acetylgalactosamine: [GM3]N-Acetylgalactosaminyltransferase by Cyclic AMP

Treatment of NG108-15 cells in culture with the opiate peptide [D-Ala2,D-Leu5]enkephalin produces maximal inhibition of cyclic AMP synthesis in less than 15 min. The activity of [GM3]:N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase is similarly inhibited, but maximal inhibition is not observed for at least 30 min following the addition of [D-Ala2,D-Leu5]enkephalin. Conversely, the phosphodiesterase inhibitor 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine rapidly potentiates the intracellular accumulation of cyclic AMP and, in a more gradual fashion, increases [GM3]:N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase activity. The reductions in the activity of [GM3]:N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase that occur following treatment of NG108-15 cells with indomethacin argues for a direct role of cyclic AMP in the observed changed in [GM3]:N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase activity. By adding low concentrations of cyclic AMP (but not cyclic GMP) to microsomes derived from neonatal rat brain, we were able to demonstrate a dose-dependent phosphorylation of membrane protein and subsequent doubling of [GM3]:N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase activity.
The Development and Operation of Computerized Neutral Beamline Systems

Neutral hydrogen beam injectors have been demonstrated to be effective in heating magnetically confined plasmas. At Princeton a record ion temperature of 6.5 keV was achieved on the Princeton Large Torus (PLT) with the aid of four injectors. Higher power injectors are being designed and fabricated for other devices including the Poloidal Divertor Experiment (PDX) and the Tokamak Fusion Test Reactor (TFTR). Dedicated minicomputer systems interfaced with CAMAC hardware are now operational on the four PLT neutral beam injectors as well as a neutral beam test stand. These systems provide data acquisition, archival, analysis, monitoring and control support. They illustrate many of the important considerations which relate to the future applications of this technology.
Properties of a protein activator of glycosphingolipid hydrolysis isolated from the liver of a patient with GM1 gangliosidosis, type 1.

Abstract The heat stable protein activator of GM1 ganglioside hydrolysis was isolated from the liver of a patient with GM1 gangliosidosis, Type 1. It was found to be present at a level about 35 times that found in a liver sample from an age matched control. This activator protein was demonstrated to stimulate the hydrolysis of GM1 ganglioside and GA1 (asialo-GM1 ganglioside) in the presence of purified GM1 ganglioside β-galactosidase without the need for bile salt detergents. It could not stimulate the hydrolysis of two other galactosphingolipids, galactosylceramide and lactosylceramide, in the presence of the same enzyme. Lactosylceramide was a good substrate for this enzyme when sodium glycodeoxycholate was included in the assay. This activator protein had two isoelectric points pH 4.1 and 4.6, and it had an apparent molecular weight of 27,000 by gel filtration.
Intergranular Cracking of Ni-16Cr-9Fe Alloys in High Temperature Water

Abstract The objective of this work is to provide a better understanding of the role of microstructure in intergranular stress corrosion cracking (SCC) of controlled-purity, Inconel 600-type alloys...
Biological and ecological influences on development at 48 and 60 months of age.

A multiple linear-regression analysis of development at ages 4 and 5 yr. is reported. Ss were drawn from a large birth cohort born in 1966. The study examined the role of maternal traits, environmental factors, and biological data from the perinatal period, as predictors of physical growth and mental development. The findings showed that two aggregates of environmental data, one representing the micro-environment of mother and child, the other the macro-environment of society, emerged as significant influences on development at ages 4 and 5. A biological model based on early developmental data emerged as a comparatively significant influence on physical growth.
Replication and extension of association of choline acetyltransferase with nicotine dependence in European and African American smokers

Choline acetyltransferase is critical in the synthesis of acetylcholine and regulation of cholinergic neuron functions. We recently reported association of the encoding gene ChAT with both smoking cessation and nicotine dependence (ND) in two independent European American (EA) samples; however, in the replication sample, only limited SNPs partially covering the gene were examined. In this study, we examined the association of 14 SNPs, which cover the entire gene, with ND, assessed by smoking quantity (SQ), heaviness of smoking index (HSI), and Fagerstrom Test for ND (FTND), in 2,037 subjects from 602 families of African American (AA) or EA origin. Individual SNP-based association analysis revealed that five SNPs showed nominal association with at least one ND measure in one of the samples (P = 0.022-0.042); none remained significant after correction for multiple testing. Haplotype-based association analysis revealed that haplotypes G-G-A-C, formed by rs1880676-rs3810950-rs10082479-rs8178990 (P = 0.005-0.0178), and G-G-T-C-G-C, formed by rs1880676-rs3810950-rs10082479-rs8178990-rs3793790-rs12266458 (P = 0.00247-0.00468), displayed significant association with all three ND measures in the AA sample, as did haplotype T-C-G-A-T, formed by rs12266458-rs11101191-rs8178991-rs4838544-rs4838547 (P = 0.00741-0.0103), in the EA sample. All these detected haplotype-based associations remained significant after correction for all major haplotypes for a given SNP combination. Together, our findings, in conjunction with the previous report of the association, warrant further investigation of ChAT in ND.
Evidence for an alarm substance inPolistes canadensis

In this tropical social wasp the odor of venom elicits an alarm response, reduces the threshold for attack, and acts as an attractant. Attack is released visually; dark colored objects were shown to be more effective releasers than were moving objects.
From Appealing to Appalling: Disenchantment with a Romantic Partner

This study examines the tendency for there to be similarities between the qualities that initially attract individuals to romantic partners and those they later dislike, that is, " fatal attractions." Approximately 44 percent of the individuals in this sample of 125 dating persons experience fatal attractions. Individual cases illustrate opposing themes, such as " nice to passive" and " strong to stubborn." One-third (33.7%) of the respondents themselves identify similarities between attracting and disliked partner characteristics. This disenchantment occurs in ongoing, as well as previ- ous, relationships, suggesting that it is not simply sour grapes but is asso- ciated with the dissipation of infatuation. Dissimilar or extreme qualities in a partner are signie cantly more likely to become disliked.
Does margaric acid occur in alfalfa seed oil

The staturated fatty acids of alfalfa seed oil were investigated with the purpose of discovering whether or not the reported existence of a heptadecanoic acid here could be substantiated. By the application of phase rule principles to the analysis of a fraction which constituted approximately 6.3 per cent of the oil, it was found that this fraction was in reality not margaric acid but an equimolecular mixture of palmitic and stearic acids. The presence of these two acids in alfalfa seed oil has not been previously reported. Indications of the presence of myristic acid and higher homolog(s) of stearic acid have been found, although conclusive proof is wanting.
Effect of ethanol, carbon tetrachloride, and methyl ethyl ketone on butanol oxidase activity in rat lung and liver.

Tha ability of the rat liver to oxidize 2-butanol via a cytochrome P-450-mediated mixed-function oxidase reaction is well known. The purpose of this study was to examine this microsomal alcohol oxidizing system in rat lung and determine if it could be altered by treatments that inhibit or induce this activity. 2-Butanol was incubated with microsomal preparations from male rats, and methyl ethyl ketone production was measured by gas chromatography. The rate was six to eight times lower in lung than in liver. Administration of low doses of ethanol (0.5 ml/kg and 1.0 ml/kg) ip for 7 d did not alter activity in the liver but was inhibitory in the lung, as was a high dose of 3.0 ml/kg in the liver. Carbon tetrachloride (1.0 ml/kg, ip) decreased activity in both tissues, especially the lung. The effects of the two inhibitors were not additive. Methyl ethyl ketone induced 2-butanol oxidation in both tissues. The lung possesses butanol oxidase activity that is alterable by both inhibitors and inducers.
Interfiber Stress and Its Transmission Part I: Measurement of the Contact Area Between Fibers Under Pressure

A method is described for revealing the contact area between a plane and a fiber under the action of a transverse pressure distribution. It involves pressing the fiber against a plane-glass surface which has been lightly smoked with a gas flame and measuring the resultant impression microscopically.
Postmodern Pride: Mary Joe Frug's Manifesto

I never met Mary Joe Frug. So I have fewer resources than others with which to develop an analysis of her text, Postmodern Legal Feminism. Yet I nonetheless feel the act of reading this work allowed me to meet her, in some way, and I am grateful for that opportunity. But reading this book leaves me with a yearning-its fulfillment ever deferred-to talk to this author. I am left unsatiated but not unsatisfied. I year to talk to Mary Joe Frug because what is most striking about the collection of essays contained in this work-discussions ranging from the impossibility doctrine in contract law to the point of view of a married woman who cannot exercise her desire to be celibate-is the astonishing psychological sophistication of her analysis. It is the attention to the particular and the peculiar in people and practices that captivates. The repeated refusals to reduce people, laws, or social practices to a seamless, singular, simple truth suggest to me someone who never ceased questioning things. Everything must have continually been open to review. The product of that seemingly uncompromising approach is a unique and provocative text, one in which her voice is simultaneously restless, exhausting, curious, careful, and carefree and, above all, confident and humble enough to revel in the inevitable and productive
Numerical approaches for collaborative data processing

We present an approach to uncertainty propagation in dynamic systems, exploiting information provided by related experimental results along with their models. The approach relies on a solution mapping technique to approximate mathematical models by polynomial surrogate models. We use these surrogate models to formulate prediction bounds in terms of polynomial optimizations. Recent results on polynomial optimizations are then applied to solve the prediction problem. Two examples which illustrate the key aspects of the proposed algorithm are given. The proposed algorithm offers a framework for collaborative data processing among researchers.
Down-regulation of RPE65 protein expression and promoter activity by retinoic acid.

PURPOSE RPE65 is critical for the normal formation of 11-cis retinal and thus photoreceptor function. Opsin expressed in HEK293 cells has been reported to form rhodopsin on the addition of all-trans retinol, indicating that the machinery for retinoid isomerization is present. RPE65 has been previously identified in HEK293 cells at both the RNA and protein levels. To further understand retinoid metabolism in these cells and the control of RPE65 expression, HEK293 cells were used as a model to determine if retinoic acid (RA) affects RPE65 promoter activity. METHODS RPE65 levels were determined by Western blots. RA regulation of RPE65 promoter activity was monitored using the luciferase reporter assay after transient transfection of HEK293 cells with the RPE65 promoter. Deletion and truncation promoter mutants were assessed for activity. RESULTS RA down-regulates RPE65 protein expression and promoter activity. The RA receptors (RARs), RARalpha, -beta, and -gamma, and the retinoid X receptors (RXRs), RXRalpha, -beta, and -gamma, were all identified in these cells and shown to mediate the regulation of RPE65 mRNA expression. After deletion of the AP1, AP4 or NF1 transcription factor binding sites, the RA down-regulation was decreased, but the decrease was not associated with a single transcription factor. The truncation promoter constructs P60, P153 and P257 showed increases in promoter activity, indicating an inhibitory element had been removed, and the down-regulatory effect of RA was decreased. CONCLUSIONS The down-regulation of RPE65 by RA is occurring at the transcription level. Multiple elements in the RPE65 promoter may contribute to this regulation.
Immunolabeling pattern of syndecan-1 expression may distinguish pagetoid Bowen's disease, extramammary Paget's disease, and pagetoid malignant melanoma in situ.

: The differential diagnosis of pagetoid cells within the epidermis rests primarily between pagetoid Bowen's disease (PBD), extramammary Paget's disease (EPD), and pagetoid malignant melanoma (MIS) in situ. Although morphologic clues are often helpful in differentiating these lesions, the use of immunohistochemistry is often necessary to arrive at the correct diagnosis. Syndecan-1 is a cell-surface proteoglycan that mediates adhesion between cells and the extracellular matrix, and between cells themselves. Twenty-two cases of PBD, four cases of intraepidermal EPD, and 13 cases of MIS were examined for syndecan-1 immunoreactivity. Cell-membrane syndecan-1 immunoreactivity was evident in PBD, cytoplasmic syndecan-1 immunoreactivity was evident in EPD, whereas immunoreactivity for syndecan-1 was not present in MIS. The patterns of syndecan-1 immunoreactivity in these lesions may be a useful adjunct in the differentiation of PBD, EPD, and MIS.
Government debt, redistributive fiscal policies, and the interaction between borrowing constraints and intergenerational altrusim

Abstract We show how borrowing constraints, intergenerational altruism, and their interaction shape the aggregate savings response to government debt and fiscal policies that redistribute resources between living generations. We also characterize the conditions under which borrowing constraints bind and the altruistic transfer motive operates in terms of the strength of the altruism motive, the shape of the lifetime productivity profile, the willingness to substitute consumption intertemporally, and other factors. Finally, we characterize the dynamic response of aggregate savings to nonneutral government debt policies in economies with binding borrowing constraints.
Enhanced adherence of human adult endothelial cells to plasma discharge modified polyethylene terephthalate.

Human adult aortic endothelial cell attachment to polyethyleneterephthalate (PET as mylar film) was examined in vitro. PET was examined in both the unmodified form (PET −) and in a modified form (PET +) that had undergone plasma discharge surface modification (PDSM). These surfaces were compared to unmodified tissue culture polystyrene (PS −). The kinetics of attachment and the force of attachment using the rotating disc were determined as a function of surface and substrate protein applied to the surface. Four proteins—fibronectin, collagen I/III, collagen IV/V, and laminin—were added and compared to saline pretreatment. The most significant variable affecting attachment was the time of incubation. When corrected for time, PET + demonstrated significantly superior attachment kinetics when compared to PET − in most cases. These kinetics were similar to those seen on PS−. Fibronectin precoating of the surface greatly enhanced attachment kinetics on PET + and PS− but to a much lesser degree on PET−. The fibronectin effect was synergistic with PDSM, suggesting that PDSM enhances protein adsorption on the surface. The force of attachment was generally independent of incubation time and surface/substrate combination except for laminin precoating. Taken together, these data indicate that human endothelial cell adherence to PET may be significantly enhanced by PDSM and surface precoating with fibronectin. Attachment occurs rapidly and, once attached, the cells demonstrate a very firm attachment force capable of resisting shear stresses up to 90 dynes/cm2.
Management of Yellowstone bison and brucellosis transmission risk – Implications for conservation and restoration

Yellowstone bison (Bison bison bison) are managed to reduce the risk of brucellosis (Brucella abortus) transmission to cattle while allowing some migration out of Yellowstone National Park to winter ranges in Montana. Intensive management near conservation area boundaries maintained separation between bison and cattle, with no transmission of brucellosis. However, brucellosis prevalence in the bison population was not reduced and the management plan underestimated bison abundance, distribution, and migration, which contributed to larger risk management culls (total >3000 bison) than anticipated. Culls differentially affected breeding herds and altered gender structure, created reduced female cohorts, and dampened productivity. The ecological future of plains bison could be significantly enhanced by resolving issues of disease and social tolerance for Yellowstone bison so that their unique wild state and adaptive capabilities can be used to synergize the restoration of the species. We recommend several adaptive management adjustments that could be implemented to enhance the conservation of plains bison and reduce brucellosis infection. These findings and recommendations are pertinent to wood bison (Bison bison athabascae), European bison (Bison bonasus), and other large ungulates worldwide that are managed using best practices within a risk framework.
On the Unknown Attribute Values in Learning from Examples

In machine learning many real-life applications data are characterized by attributes with unknown values. This paper shows that the existing approaches to learning from such examples are not sufficient. A new method is suggested, which transforms the original decision table with unknown values into a new decision table in which every attribute value is known. Such a new table, in general, is inconsistent. This problem is solved by a technique of learning from inconsistent examples, based on rough set theory. Thus, two sets of rules: certain and possible are induced. Certain rules are categorical, while possible rules are supported by existing data, although conflicting data may exist as well. The presented approach may be combined with any other approach to uncertainty when processing of possible rules is concerned.
Multiple Threat: Overweight/Obese Women in the Workplace

Within the organizational stereotype threat literature, the majority of studies have focused on gender, race, age, and sexuality. One neglected area of increasing concern is that of overweight/obese individuals in the workplace. Recent statistics indicate that obesity is a serious epidemic in the United States with nearly 70% of the U.S. population diagnosable as overweight/obese (Flegal, Carroll, Ogden, & Curtin, 2010). In conjunction with this trend, the percentage of obese or overweight workers represented in the workplace is also increasing. Social psychological research on obesity stigmatization has shown that negative sentiment toward overweight/obese individuals is highly prevalent in society (Puhl & Heuer, 2009; Seacat, Dougal, & Roy, 2014) and that obesity-related prejudice remains one of the last acceptable forms of prejudice (e.g., Brochu & Esses, 2011; Puhl & Brownell, 2001). Obesity-related stigma is based upon numerous and potent social stereotypes of overweight people including laziness, unreliability, untrustworthiness, low motivation, low intelligence, and low dedication (Puhl & Brownell, 2006; Seacat & Mickelson, 2009). Particularly relevant is that all of these stereotypes are potentially applicable to individuals, evaluations, and consequences within the workplace, yet these stereotypes have received very little attention in the organizational literature. Although we agree with the arguments
Integration of design in electronics courses

The author presents his experience in integrating design components in a 200-level first electronics course for electrical and mechanical engineering students and in a 300-level second electronics course for electrical engineering students. The introduction of design components starts at the first electronic course and it is continued through the second-level electronics course. >
Orius (Heterorius) Vicinus (Ribaut) (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Anthocoridae) in Western North America, a Correction of the Past

Abstract Collection records for the Palearctic flower bug Orius (Heterorius) minutus (Linnaeus) (Heteroptera: Anthocoridae) in western North America date back to 1930. This species can be very similar in appearance to another Palearctic species, Orius (Heterorius) vicinus (Ribaut). Positive identification is made by examination of the genitalia. We now report O. vicinus from western North America. Over 250 specimens belonging to the subgenus Heterorius were examined from collections made between 1930–2008 in western Washington, western Oregon and western British Columbia. These specimens were identified as O. vicinus, suggesting that all previous records of O. minutus in North America are based on misidentifications of O. vicinus. We observe that O. vicinus can have more extensive darkening on the legs than has been reported in the literature, which may have been a factor contributing to confusion of this species with O. minutus.
The purification of cobalt advance electrolyte using ion exchange

Abstract Laboratory scale development work is reported for the removal of trace amounts of copper and zinc from a 40 g/l cobalt advance electrolyte solution at pH 5–6. A chelating ion exchange resin is used for copper removal but a novel Levextrel resin is used for zinc removal. Data are presented on loading and regeneration cycles and also on the loss of organic material from the Levextrel. A scanning electron microscope linked to an X-ray probe analyser has been used in an attempt to explain the mode of cobalt/zinc loading on the Levextrel resin. The information obtained from this development work has been used in the design of the proposed plant.
Local maximum-entropy approximation schemes : a seamless bridge between finite elements and meshfree methods

We present a one-parameter family of approximation schemes, which we refer to as local maximum-entropy approximation schemes, that bridges continuously two important limits: Delaunay triangulation and maximum-entropy (max-ent) statistical inference. Local max-ent approximation schemes represent a compromise—in the sense of Pareto optimality—between the competing objectives of unbiased statistical inference from the nodal data and the definition of local shape functions of least width. Local max-ent approximation schemes are entirely defined by the node set and the domain of analysis, and the shape functions are positive, interpolate affine functions exactly, and have a weak Kronecker-delta property at the boundary. Local max-ent approximation may be regarded as a regularization, or thermalization, of Delaunay triangulation which effectively resolves the degenerate cases resulting from the lack or uniqueness of the triangulation. Local max-ent approximation schemes can be taken as a convenient basis for the numerical solution of PDEs in the style of meshfree Galerkin methods. In test cases characterized by smooth solutions we find that the accuracy of local max-ent approximation schemes is vastly superior to that of finite elements.
Roger's Dilemma: A Situational Examination of Ethical Behavior in the Presence of Internal Control Deficiencies

ABSTRACT: This case exposes students to decision making in an ethically and legally ambiguous situation. It also asks them to practice using their ethical sensitivity by identifying situations where ethical conflicts are present. Students will learn the Securities and Exchange Commission's definition of insider trading and gain an understanding of the Supreme Court's recent interpretations regarding the specifics of what constitutes insider trading. Students will also learn about the legal protection afforded to whistleblowers under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and learn about the code of ethics requirement applicable to public company's senior financial officers and the chief executive officer. Finally, students will be exposed to the definition of an internal control deficiency and learn how to identify two types of internal control deficiencies.
New LIC vectors for production of proteins from genes containing rare codons

In the effort to produce proteins coded by diverse genomes, structural genomics projects often must express genes containing codons that are rare in the production strain. To address this problem, genes expressing tRNAs corresponding to those codons are typically coexpressed from a second plasmid in the host strain, or from genes incorporated into production plasmids. Here we describe the modification of a series of LIC pMCSG vectors currently used in the high-throughput (HTP) production of proteins to include crucial tRNA genes covering rare codons for Arg (AGG/AGA) and Ile (AUA). We also present variants of these new vectors that allow analysis of ligand binding or co-expression of multiple proteins introduced through two independent LIC steps. Additionally, to accommodate the cloning of multiple large proteins, the size of the plasmids was reduced by approximately one kilobase through the removal of non-essential DNA from the base vector. Production of proteins from core vectors of this series validated the desired enhanced capabilities: higher yields of proteins expressed from genes with rare codons occurred in most cases, biotinylated derivatives enabled detailed automated ligand binding analysis, and multiple proteins introduced by dual LIC cloning were expressed successfully and in near balanced stoichiometry, allowing tandem purification of interacting proteins.
Stranded by Katrina: Past and Present

Nearly a year after Hurricane Katrina made landfall, the final collection of articles for this special issue of ASAP has been assembled. The articles, submitted in November 2005, explore issues raised during the aftermath of Katrina: the undeniable reality of poverty in the United States, heated debates about racism, the need to provide prompt succor to ease physical and psychological suffering, and the challenges faced by social scientists who hope to conduct research with vulnerable and victimized communities. Although the articles address these issues with respect to the immediate aftermath of Katrina, the same issues remain critical one year later, albeit in different forms. Housing concerns during the recovery period, for example, still include cries for immediate help, are a source of stress and frustration, prompt arguments about racial inequity, and disproportionately affect lower income families. One year later, many of the same people stranded by Katrina’s floodwaters remain stranded by bureaucratic inertia, institutionalized inequity, and inadequate mental health services. Their lives show little if any evidence of a return to what they were pre-Katrina. The August 29 levee breaches in New Orleans stranded thousands of people on roof-tops, at the Morial Convention Center, and at the Superdome. Pre-Katrina, 67% of New Orleans residents were African American (www.census.gov); and 35% of them lived below the poverty line, contrasted with 11.5% of EuropeanAmerican residents living below poverty in Orleans Parish (Nasser, September 2005). Given the general confounding of race and poverty in pre-Katrina New Orleans, media images predominantly showed African-American people trapped by the floodwaters. Critics of the local government queried why the City’s evacuation plan made no provision for people without means to evacuate; critics of the federal government charged that the slow, inefficient rescue and relief efforts
A peer-to-peer approach to resource location in Grid environments

Resource location (or discovery) is a fundamental service for resource-sharing environments: given desired resource attributes, the service returns locations of matching resources. Designing such a service for a Grid environment of the scale and volatility of today's peer-to-peer systems is not trivial. We explore part of the design space through simulations on an emulated Grid. To this end, we propose four axes that define the resource location design space, model and implement an emulated Grid, evaluate a set of resource discovery mechanisms, and discuss results.
Lightness of Munker-White illusion and Simultaneous-Contrast illusion: Establishing an ordinal lightness relation among minimum and split-frame presentations

The achromatic Munker-White illusion and the Simultaneous-Contrast illusion have been used extensively in vision studies to understand how the figural configuration of a stimulus can affect the perceived lightness of its components in human perception. Yet, previous modeling and psychophysics studies did not directly compare the illusions' lightness with controlled parameters of minimum stripes and split-frame presentations, which are useful in testing model predictions and in correlating neural firings to final percept in electrophysiology. In our study, subjects performed lightness matching of the four minimum and split-frame presentations of the illusions. We found the lightness order from lightest to darkest to be statistically significant after normalization within each subject: SCB > MWW > SCW > MWB. This is to say that the lighter frame of Simultaneous Contrast (SCB) is lighter than the lighter frame of Munker-White (MWW), which is lighter than the darker frame of Simultaneous Contrast (SCW), which is still lighter than the darker frame of Munker-White (MWB).