cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Variability in Surface BRDF at Different Spatial Scales (30m-500m) Over a Mixed Agricultural Landscape as Retrieved from Airborne and Satellite Spectral Measurements

Over the past decade, the role of multiangle 1 remote sensing has been central to the development of algorithms for the retrieval of global land surface properties including models of the bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF), albedo, land cover/dynamics, burned area extent, as well as other key surface biophysical quantities represented by the anisotropic reflectance characteristics of vegetation. In this study, a new retrieval strategy for fine-to-moderate resolution multiangle observations was developed, based on the operational sequence used to retrieve the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) Collection 5 reflectance and BRDF/albedo products. The algorithm makes use of a semiempirical kernel-driven bidirectional reflectance model to provide estimates of intrinsic albedo (i.e., directional-hemispherical reflectance and bihemispherical reflectance), model parameters describing the BRDF, and extensive quality assurance information. The new retrieval strategy was applied to NASA's Cloud Absorption Radiometer (CAR) data acquired during the 2007 Cloud and Land Surface Interaction Campaign (CLASIC) over the well-instrumented Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Program (ARM) Southern Great Plains (SGP) Cloud and Radiation Testbed (CART) site in Oklahoma, USA. For the case analyzed, we obtained approx.1.6 million individual surface bidirectional reflectance factor (BRF) retrievals, from nadir to 75deg off-nadir, and at spatial resolutions ranging from 3 m - 500 m. This unique dataset was used to examine the interaction of the spatial and angular 18 characteristics of a mixed agricultural landscape; and provided the basis for detailed assessments of: (1) the use of a priori knowledge in kernel-driven BRDF model inversions; (2) the interaction between surface reflectance anisotropy and instrument spatial resolution; and (3) the uncertainties that arise when sub-pixel differences in the BRDF are aggregated to a moderate resolution satellite pixel. Results offer empirical evidence concerning the influence of scale and spatial heterogeneity in kernel-driven BRDF models; providing potential new insights into the behavior and characteristics of different surface radiative properties related to land/use cover change and vegetation structure.
Infection of the alfalfa weevil, Hypera postica, by the fungus Beauveria bassiana

Abstract The percentage of infection of the alfalfa weevil, Hypera postica , by the fungus Beauveria bassiana was influenced by relative humidity and temperature. A relative humidity of 98% to 100% was required for a high rate of infection to occur as were temperatures above 24°C. Dusting the insects with spores proved to be the most effective means of inoculation. All stages of the weevil were found to be susceptible to the fungus, although spores were not produced from infected larvae as they were from infected adults. The fungus spores entered the tracheal system and penetrated the insect tissues. The first effect of the fungus on the insect was of a chemical nature and affected the fat tissue. The fat body was the first tissue to become permeated with hyphae. Muscle tissue and the Malpighian tubules were the next to be infected, whereas the nerve tissue was the last to become permeated with hyphae. Muscle tissue and the Malpighian tubules were the next to be infected, whereas the nerve tissue was the last to become permeated with the fungus. The fungus was never observed to have penetrated the exoskeleton except through the tracheae. Infection usually began in the anterior regions of the insect and proceeded posteriorly. All tissues may be permeated by the fungus before death occurs.
A Defect-Tolerant Computer Architecture: Opportunities for Nanotechnology

Teramac is a massively parallel experimental computer built at Hewlett-Packard Laboratories to investigate a wide range of different computational architectures. This machine contains about 220,000 hardware defects, any one of which could prove fatal to a conventional computer, and yet it operated 100 times faster than a high-end single-processor workstation for some of its configurations. The defect-tolerant architecture of Teramac, which incorporates a high communication bandwith that enables it to easily route around defects, has significant implications for any future nanometer-scale computational paradigm. It may be feasible to chemically synthesize individual electronic components with less than a 100 percent yield, assemble them into systems with appreciable uncertainty in their connectivity, and still create a powerful and reliable data communications network. Future nanoscale computers may consist of extremely large-configuration memories that are programmed for specific tasks by a tutor that locates and tags the defects in the system.
‘Forsaken and Abandoned’: The Nationalization and Salvage of Deserted, Displaced, and Private Library Collections in Poland, 1945–1948

Abstract The Second World War and subsequent changes to state boundaries resulted in significant dispersal and displacement of cultural property, including library collections, located in pre-war P...
Zenith Angle Dependence of Cosmic Ray Muons.

The zenith-angle distribution of high-energy cosmic-ray muons has been further investigated using a sample of 2 \ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{} ${10}^{5}$ muons observed in the Utah underground detector. The data have been analyzed in such a way that the angular dependence can be extracted without substantial sensitivity to the parameters of cosmic-ray phenomenology. The zenithangle distribution is flatter than expected on the basis of muon production via pion and kaon decay. An isotropic component (of unspecified origin) is required which rises to a maximum contribution of about 0.5 of the vertical intensity in the muon energy range 1-3 TeV and threafter decreases.
Decreased expression of ARV1 results in cholesterol retention in the endoplasmic reticulum and abnormal bile acid metabolism

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane cholesterol is maintained at an optimal concentration of ∼5 mol % by the net impact of sterol synthesis, modification, and export. Arv1p was first identified in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a key component of this homeostasis due to its probable role in intracellular sterol transport. Mammalian ARV1, which can fully complement the yeast lesion, encodes a ubiquitously expressed, resident ER protein. Repeated dosing of specific antisense oligonucleotides to ARV1 produced a marked reduction of ARV1 transcripts in liver, adipose, and to a lesser extent, intestine. This resulted in marked hypercholesterolemia, elevated serum bile acids, and activation of the hepatic farnesoid X receptor (FXR) regulatory pathway. Knockdown of ARV1 in murine liver and HepG2 cells was associated with accumulation of cholesterol in the ER at the expense of the plasma membrane and suppression of sterol regulatory element-binding proteins and their targets. These studies indicate a critical role of mammalian Arv1p in sterol movement from the ER and in the ensuing regulation of hepatic cholesterol and bile acid metabolism.
Renal insufficiency and hypercalcemia

Presentation of the Forum is made possible by grants from Hoechst-Roussel Pharmaceuticals Inc., Smith Kline & French Laboratories, Burroughs Wellcome Company, Ciba Pharmaceutical Company, and Boehringer Ingelheim Ltd.
Seeking the proper balance between tuition, state support, and local revenues: An economic perspective

This chapter argues that a relatively high tuition, high financial aid policy is the most equitable and efficient way to fund community college operating budgets and promote access.
Mirk Protein Kinase Is Activated by MKK3 and Functions as a Transcriptional Activator of HNF1α

Mirk/Dyrk1B is an arginine-directed serine/threonine protein kinase that is expressed at low levels in most normal tissues but at elevated levels in many tumor cell lines and in normal skeletal muscle. Colon carcinoma cell lines stably overexpressing Mirk proliferated in serum-free medium, but the mechanism of Mirk action is unknown. DCoHm(dimerization cofactor of hepatocyte nuclear factor 1α ( HNF1α) from muscle), a novel gene of the DCoH family with 78% amino acid identity to DCoH, was identified as a Mirk-binding protein by yeast two-hybrid analysis and cloned. Mirk co-immunoprecipitated with DCoHm and bound to DCoHm in glutathione S-transferase pull-down assays. DCoH stabilizes HNF1α as a dimer and enhances its transcriptional activity on the β-fibrinogen promoter reporter, and DCoHm had similar activity. Mirk enhanced HNF1α transcriptional activity in a dose-dependent manner, whereas two kinase-inactive Mirk mutants and a Mirk N-terminal deletion mutant did not. Mirk, DCoHm, and HNF1α formed a complex. Mirk bound to a specific region within the CREB-binding protein-binding region of HNF1α and phosphorylated HNF1α at a site adjacent to the Mirk-binding region. Conversely, the HNF1α binding domain was located within the first five conserved kinase subdomains of Mirk. Mirk co-immunoprecipitated with the MAPK kinase MKK3, an upstream activator of p38. MKK3 enhanced Mirk kinase activity and the transcriptional activation of HNF1α by Mirk, suggesting that Mirk, like p38, is activated by certain environmental stress agents. The Mirk-binding protein DCoH has been shown to be selectively expressed in colon carcinomas but not in normal tissue. Mirk may function as an HNF1α transcriptional activator in response to an MKK3-mediated stress signal, and the selective expression of DCoH could restrict the Mirk response to carcinoma cells.
Theoretical investigation of gas separation inside a microchannel by thermal diffusion

Microscale gas separation using thermal diffusion is investigated. Under the effects of a thermal loading, different gas species move at different velocities which results in gas separation. This approach to separation may be especially applicable in micro- and nanosystems, since the requirement for relatively bulky pumps, typically required in conventional membrane filtration or gas chromatography, is eliminated. In this paper, we report our theoretical investigation of the separation effect caused by a thermal gradient in a mixture gas flow. The dependence of separation performance on various parameters, including temperature loading, molecular weight, and channel size, is investigated.
Gender Differences in a Psychological Model of Mathematics Achievement.

This study examined the validity of the Eccles et al. (1983) theoretical model of achievement behaviors using data from the Second International Mathematics Study. With the achievement behavior defined as performance (mathematics achievement), the dominant effects of the value of mathematics and expectations for success that are hypothesized by the model were not apparent, and effects differed for males and females. There were more direct and indirect influences on achievement from the psychological constructs for females, suggesting that the explanation of mathematics achievement within the context of this model was more complicated for females than for males.
Circadian time dependence of cisplatin urinary kinetics

Free platinum urinary excretion kinetics after a 30-min infusion of 60 mg/m2 IV cis-diamminedichloroplatinum (C) were studied during 51 monthly courses of C therapy in 11 patients suffering from a variety of advanced malignancies. Each patient received half of his or her treatment course at 6:00 A.M. and 6:00 P.M. Initial treatment time was randomly assigned and subsequent treatment times were alternated. Each C infusion was accompanied by 4100-ml 5% dextrose and 0.45% NaCl solution given intravenously. Evening C infusion resulted in greater urine output, lower peak urinary platinum concentrations, and lower areas under the curve of cisplatin concentration. While the normal circadian rhythm characteristics of body temperature were not altered by changing the C infusion time, the circadian rhythm characteristics of urine volume 1 mo after treatment were significantly disrupted by morning, but not by evening, C. We conclude: (1) that since the kinetics of certain drugs may be affected by the time of administration, kinetic studies should be performed and reported in a time-qualified fashion, and (2) that it is reasonable to expect that, since kinetic parameters are important in determining drug toxicity and effect, these too may vary predictably during the day.
Superconductivity and crystal structure of a new class of ternary transition metal phosphides TT/t'P (TZr, Nb, Ta and T/t'Ru, Rh)

Abstract A new series of superconducting ternary transition metal phosphides TT/t'P (TZr, Nb, Ta and T/t'Ru, Rh) was synthesized. A single-crystal structural determination for ZrRuP yielded an orthorhombic structure (space group, Pnam) with a final R value of 0.036. The superconducting transition temperature is strongly dependent on the electronic structure with TaRhP possessing the highest Tc of 4.7 K. The compound ZrRuP crystallizes in two modifications: the hexagonal phase has a Tc of 13.0 K and the orthorhombic structure has a Tc of 3.5 K. The relationship between the crystal chemistry and superconducting properties for these two modifications is discussed.
Trends in analyzing access to information. Part I: cross-disciplinary conceptualizations of access

Abstract Part I of two articles reviews six research literatures that consider access from different vantage points to identify common aspects of the concept `access to information'. The resulting multi-dimensional framework includes (1) conceptualizations of information itself (resource/commodity, data in the environment, representation of knowledge and part of the communication process), (2) conceptualizations of the notion of access (knowledge, technology, communication, control, goods/commodities and rights), (3) a set of general information seeking facets (context, situation, strategies and outcomes) and (4) a variety of influences and constraints (physical, cognitive, affective, economic, social and political). Only a comprehensive consideration of these factors will allow us to understand the concept of access to information, as well as develop and study systems, institutions and policies that foster improved access.
Luminal Ca2+ Protects against Thapsigargin Inhibition in Neuronal Endoplasmic Reticulum

Thapsigargin is a specific and potent inhibitor of sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPases. However, in whole rat brain microsomes, 1 microM thapsigargin had no significant effect on the 10-min time course of ATP-dependent Ca2+ uptake in the absence of the luminal Ca2+ chelator oxalate. In contrast, 50 mM oxalate resolved a thapsigargin-sensitive Ca2+ uptake rate (IC50 approximately 1 nM thapsigargin) five times that of a thapsigargin-insensitive rate. This remaining approximately 20% of the total ATP-dependent accumulation was insensitive to thapsigargin (up to 10 microM), slightly less sensitive to vanadate inhibition, and unresponsive to 5 microM inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate or 10 mM caffeine. Measuring both 12-min Ca2+ uptake and initial Ca2+ uptake rates, the apparent thapsigargin sensitivity increased as oxalate concentrations increased from 10 to 50 mM, corresponding to a range of luminal free Ca2+ concentrations of approximately 300 down to 60 nM. Addition of oxalate during steady-state 45Ca accumulation rapidly resolved the aforementioned thapsigargin sensitivity. These results strongly suggest that luminal Ca2+ may protect a large portion of neuronal endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pumps against thapsigargin inhibition. Although high [Ca2+] has been previously shown to protect against thapsigargin inhibition in several reticular membrane preparations, our results suggest that luminal Ca2+ alone is responsible for mediating this effect in neurons.
Anomalous invasion in a 2d model of chemotactic predation

Abstract It has been hypothesized that plankton predators sense the presence of their prey through detection of chemical signals exuded by the prey. This process is formulated using elements of existing models, tailored to correspond to the specific process under investigation. The motivation for the resulting model is discussed in detail. Numerical results are then presented. It is found that the front representing the advance of the predator into the prey is irregular in a novel way, and the reasons for this anomalous invasion are discussed. It is recognized that reaction–diffusion models, starting perhaps with Turing, can lead to what might have been thought of as anomalous patterns — yet the “flicker” front advance discovered here is indeed novel.
The uptake of [3H]GABA and differentiation of stellate neurons in cultures of dissociated postnatal rat cerebellum

Abstract Two-day rat cerebellum cultures of various ages were labeled by incubation with [3H]GABA in saline G, and examined by light microscope radioautography. Uptake of [3H]GABA was restricted to stellate neurons, Purkinje cells and interstitial neurons. It was Na+-dependent, very rapid, and had some of the characteristics of a high affinity, highly specific process. The cell components responsible for [3H]-GABA uptake appeared to be distributed throughout the plasma membrane of the neuron soma and processes. Membrane affinity for GABA developed concomitant with the earliest stages of stellate neuron differentiation: a doubling in size of the germinal cell and development of one process; and was not dependent on any progressive increase in neuron-neuron interactions.
Vasculotoxic Effects of Insulin and Its Role in Atherosclerosis: What is the Evidence?

As a result of ambiguous results from several recent trials in diabetes, scrutiny has focused on the potential effects of insulin and its role in atherosclerosis. This article reviews the premise that anti-diabetes therapy (type 2 diabetes) with insulin causes vascular impairment that leads to atherothrombosis and compromises vascular integrity, which may further potentiates cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Underlying mechanisms are discussed, including metabolic derangements (blood pressure, lipids, body weight, and glucose) and how these factors trigger insulin-like growth factor (IGF) receptors, leading to cancer. Cellular and molecular mechanisms are discussed, as well as whether the negative results seen in recent glucose trials support this premise. As with most drug therapy, aggressive therapies designed to reach glucose control targets trigger multiple and inter-related mechanisms that, in many cases, go far beyond the pre-determined physiologic targets. From a clinical perspective, physicians should always stress lifestyle modifications, including physical exercise and diet, to their patients who show the first signs of metabolic impairment. Yet even within this context, diet and exercise should be the cornerstone of good therapy when pharmacotherapy is necessary. Given the amount of evidence seen to date with existing agents and the amount of information we do not yet know, patient-centered approaches to modifying behavior before intensive drug therapy are needed should be stressed.
Ending the Unemployment Crisis with Guaranteed Employment and Retraining

Since 2008, the U.S. economy has been mired in the second worst economic crisis in its history. Conceivably, massive government spending could bring the economy out of this slump as massive war spending ultimately ended the Great Depression of the 1930s. However, a far superior strategy exists: guaranteeing employment accompanied by retraining to enable all unemployed workers to become absorbed into the regular work force. Beyond ending the crisis, the superiority of this strategy is that it would institutionalize a procedure for insuring that, in an increasingly technologically dynamic and open economy, workers would possess the necessary skills for available jobs. Guaranteeing employment would also eliminate the ecological costs associated with the need to seek growth to generate employment at practically any cost. Finally, it would establish a new moral social contract, whereby everyone is granted the dignity that accompanies being a productive member of society. Welfare for those able to work could disappear, along with the degradation and humiliation accompanying it.
Electron Spin Resonance of Rare-Earth Ions in Thorium Oxide: Yb 3+ and Er 3+

The paramagnetic resonance spectrum of ${\mathrm{Yb}}^{3+}$ and ${\mathrm{Er}}^{3+}$ in Th${\mathrm{O}}_{2}$ has been investigated at 10.5 kMc/sec over the temperature range of 4 to 2\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. Sites of cubic symmetry as well as axial sites due to nearby charge compensation were observed. Both cubic spectra gave isotropic $g$ values with $g=3.423\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.001$ for ${\mathrm{Yb}}^{3+}$ and $g=6.753\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.005$ for ${\mathrm{Er}}^{3+}$, and these values are in good agreement with the predicted values for ${\ensuremath{\Gamma}}_{7}$ doublets. Temperature variation showed that these were the lowest states. For both ions in dilute crystals the linewidth was \ensuremath{\le}0.5 Oe, and in heavily doped crystals the linewidth was 3 to 4 G. Nearby charge compensation in the ${\mathrm{Yb}}^{3+}$ case produces four sites of trigonal symmetry with [111] axes, while in the ${\mathrm{Er}}^{3+}$ case the preponderant axial site had tetragonal symmetry with three [100] axes. For ${\mathrm{Yb}}^{3+}$, ${g}_{\mathrm{II}}=4.772\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.002$ and ${g}_{\ensuremath{\perp}}=2.724\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.001$, and one-third the trace of the $g$ tensor was 3.407. For ${\mathrm{Er}}^{3+}$, ${g}_{\mathrm{II}}=3.462\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.003$ and ${g}_{\ensuremath{\perp}}=7.624\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.005$, and one-third the trace of the $g$ tensor was 6.240. The linewidths obtained for the axial sites were broader than those for cubic sites and varied with angle. Evidence for macroscopic crystalline imperfections was also found.
Automated quality assurance for image-guided radiation therapy.

Purpose: The use of image-guided patient positioning requires fast and reliable Quality Assurance (QA) methods to ensure the megavoltage (MV) treatment beam coincides with the integrated kilovoltage (kV) or volumetric cone-beam CT (CBCT) imaging and guidance systems. This study automates the standard QA protocol by using imaging filters to detect relevant QA features in the planar and volumetric X-ray images. Method and Materials: Current QA protocol is based on visually observing deviations of certain features in acquired kV in-room treatment images such as markers, distances, or HU values from phantom specifications. This is a time-consuming and subjective task because these features are identified by human operators. The method implemented in this study automated an IGRT QA protocol by using specific image processing algorithms that rigorously detected phantom features and performed all measurements involved in a classical QA protocol. The algorithm was tested on four different IGRT QA phantoms. Results: Image analysis algorithms were able to detect QA features with the same accuracy as the manual approach but significantly faster. The QA test is routinely implemented on all four IGRT-enabled machines available at our institution. All described tests are performed in a single procedure, with acquisition of the images taking ~ 5 minutes, and the automated software analysis taking less than 1 minute. Conclusion: The automated image analysis based procedure may be used as a daily QA procedure because it is completely automated and uses a single phantom setup. It adds convenience tools such as reporting, database storage and trends analysis
Stress Concentration Factors under Dynamic Loading Conditions

Dynamic photo-elasticity has been employed to determine the stress concentration factor at a central circular hole in a strut subjected to axial impact. The model was machined from a low modulus photo-elastic material (a urethane rubber compound known commercially as Hysol 8705), and the photographs of the dynamic fringe patterns were taken with a ‘Fastax’ camera or a microflash-camera combination.
EFFECT OF RAINFALL-EXCESS DETERMINATION ON RUNOFF COMPUTATION

: Four methods of determining rainfall-excess are considered. They include O-index and equations of Horton, Kostyakov and Philip. These methods are utilized in a nonlinear kinematic wave model to predict surface runoff from two natural agricultural watersheds. The effect of determining rainfall-excess on surface runoff response is then examined. It is observed that errors in rainfall-excess constitute a major source of error in runoff prediction. The choice of a method of determining rainfall-excess is thus crucial to runoff computation.
Repeated self-administered cocaine "binges" in rats: effects on cocaine intake and withdrawal.

Rationale: Repeated access to cocaine may engender behavioral sensitization, which emerges as an enhanced response to the effects of cocaine. Repeated exposure to prolonged self-administration sessions has been shown to produce an escalation in cocaine intake. Objective: The objective of the present study was to identify the consequence of repeated exposure to prolonged access to self-administered cocaine. Methods: Pairs of rats that were matched for training, housing, and surgery were treated as a single experimental unit, and these pairs were separated into groups for two separate experiments. In the first experiment, one animal of the pair acquired and maintained a stable rate for IV cocaine self-administration (0.5 mg/infusion), while the second rat was yoked such that it passively received saline infusions in the same pattern. After acquisition, the active self-administration rats were given free access to cocaine for 16 h (binge), while the yoked animal continued to receive infusions of saline. Twenty-four hours after the binge, both animals were exposed to tactile startle stimuli, and ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) and startle reflexes were measured. The animals were exposed to three cocaine binges and 24 h post-binge startle tests with an interval of 10 days between binges, and then a fourth binge, with an interval of 24 h separating binges three and four. In the second experiment, pairs of rats were separated into three groups (A, B, and C). The active cocaine rats acquired self-administration and were allowed access to a 16-h cocaine binge while their yoked controls received saline. Twenty-fours hours after the binge, all animals were tested for emission of USVs and startle reflexes with an identical protocol as that in experiment 1. Immediately after exposure to the startle stimuli, the self-administering animals were again allowed to self-administer cocaine for either 16 (group A), 12 (group B), or 8 h (group C). Results: In experiment 1, the total amount of cocaine self-administered was significantly decreased when the cocaine binges were separated by 10 days, but total cocaine intake during the binge significantly increased when the drug-free interval was 24 h. The pattern of self-administration and the withdrawal response remained unchanged over consecutive binges. In experiment 2, rats that self-administered cocaine for either 16 or 12 h emitted significantly less USVs immediately after renewed access than they emitted 24 h after the first access period. Conclusion: It appeared that consecutive prolonged self-administration was insufficient to produce sensitization, as measured by cocaine intake and renewed access to self-administered cocaine was sufficient to reduce the large number of USVs that characterize withdrawal from a cocaine binge.
Analysis of the tumorigenicity of the X gene of hepatitis B virus in a nontransformed hepatocyte cell line and the effects of cotransfection with a murine p53 mutant equivalent to human codon 249

Chronic infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) is associated with the development of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). One of the HBV genes, HBx, may have transforming potential, but this issue is still the subject of controversy. One of the major difficulties in addressing this question is the lack of a suitable in vitro model. We used a nontransformed, differentiated murine hepatocyte cell line (AML12) to transfect the HBx gene and examine its transforming capabilities. Because mutations of the p53 gene, in particular at codon 249, have been implicated in HCC development in geographical areas with high incidence of the tumor, we also studied the putative cooperative role in transformation between HBx and mutated p53 by cotransfecting HBx with a murine p53 mutant equivalent to human ser249 (ser246p53). Transfection with HBx plasmids containing the HBx gene under the control of two different promoters resulted in fewer colonies than in control plasmids. The toxic effect of HBx on colony formation was abolished by cotransfection with 246p53, suggesting that the inhibitory effect requires functionally intact p53. Clonal cell lines that stably expressed HBx messenger RNA (mRNA) (HBX lines) were tested for their growth characteristics and their ability to grow in soft agar and form tumors in nude mice. At passages 19-27 after transfection, one of four HBx-expressing lines showed the capacity for anchorage-independent growth in soft agar and produced poorly differentiated hepatocellular carcinomas in 8 of 13 sites of injection in nude mice. HBX lines as well as clonal cell lines of cells transfected with 246p53 (246 cell lines), cotransfected with HBx and 246p53 (246x lines) or transfected with control plasmids, were analyzed by flow cytometry to determine the fraction of cells in S phase (SPF). 246 and 246X lines had similar SPFs that were approximately twofold greater than control or HBX lines. 246x lines showed morphological changes in culture such as marked cellular heterogeneity, cell crowding, and the presence of multinucleated giant cells, but their tumorigenicity was not increased compared with the HBX lines. These data show that HBx has a weak tumorigenicity in murine hepatocytes and that the addition of mutation of p53 at codon 249 to HBx expression does not increase tumorigenicity in AML12 cells.
Fixation and the stereokinetic phenomenon

One of two circles on a rotating disk appears to execute a planetary motion about the other circle. It is shown that the fixated circle serves as the center of rotation for the nonfixated circle. The effect of fixation is absent when polygons replace the circles. However, when one corner of an isolated square is fixated, the remaining corners rotated about the fixated corner. These planetary effects are consistent with the retinal paths followed by the elements of a display during fixation. This is not unlike the failure of position constancy associated with smooth pursuit of linearly moving targets in environments lacking a stationary visual frame of reference. In the present instance, however, the “retinal” responses occur during tracking of circularly moving targets, even in the presence of a visual frame of reference. These results are discussed in relation to the stereokinetic phenomenon. It is also shown that there is a strong interaction between the effects of fixation and the configurational features of the display. When a circle and a square are overlapping on a rotating disk, fixation of the square does not produce the perception of planetary motion. However, when the circle is fixated, the square is readily perceived as executing a planetary path about the circle. The possibility that position constancy in general is attributable to the geometry of the scene rather than to a “discounting” of information about eye movements is mentioned.
Do internet-based surveys increase personal self-disclosure?

The use and application of internet-based surveys among practitioners and academics alike has been on the rise for several years. Internet-based surveys offer many advantages over traditional survey methods such as self-administered paper and pencil-based surveys, including lower costs and the elimination of manual data entry. Beyond the advantages for the researcher, however, less is known about whether subjects react and answer questions on internet-based surveys in the same manner as they do the same survey and questions in a paper-based, self-administered format. Since surveys in general are intended to gather information, a logical concern for researchers is response quality and level of self-disclosure. Specifically, are respondents likely to self-disclose more (or less) when answering questions in an online environment as compared to the same questions posed in a traditional paper-based survey? The primary goal of the proposed investigation, then, is to furnish empirical evidence on such a comparison.
H atom plasma diagnostics: A sensitive probe of temperature and purity

Two-photon absorption laser-induced fluorescence (TALIF) has proven to be a convenient diagnostic for reactive light atoms in plasmas. We have carried out a series of TALIF experiments and report the first temperature measurements of ground state H atoms in an rf discharge. With reasonable care, measurements of the H atom linewidths, broadened by the Doppler effect, provide detailed information about the translational energy, i.e., temperature of the atoms. It is found that in pure H2 plasmas, the H atom temperature is slighthy elevated with respect to ambient. In plasmas contaminated with the other H-containing molecules, Doppler-broadened linewidths corresponding to H atom temperatures in excess of 7000 K have been observed. The mechanisms leading to such high apparent temperatures are discussed.
Reading groups and the postmodern crisis of cultural authority

(1987). Reading groups and the postmodern crisis of cultural authority. Cultural Studies: Vol. 1, No. 3, pp. 306-327.
Gustatory solitary tract development: a role for neuropilins

The rostral nucleus of the solitary tract (rNST) receives orosensory information from taste bud cells in the tongue and palate via cranial nerves VII and IX. These nerves enter the brainstem, form the solitary tract (ST) and synapse with neurons in the rNST, which then relay incoming sensory information to other brain areas to process external gustatory stimuli. Factors that direct or regulate the trajectory of the developing ST are largely unknown. We used 1,1'-dioctadecyl-3,3,3',3'-tetramethylindocarbocyanine perchlorate (DiI) to identify ST projections originating from cells in the geniculate ganglia of embryonic rats from embryonic day 14 through 18 (E14-E18). After identifying the ST fibers, immunolabeling for and protein expression analysis of the axon guidance molecules neuropilin-1 (Npn-1) and neuropilin-2 (Npn-2) and their binding partners, semaphorin-3A (Sema-3A) and semaphorin-3F (Sema-3F) were performed. The results detail the formation of ST projections into the gustatory brainstem and their relationship to developing rNST neurons. DiI-labeled ST fibers were present in the brainstem as early as E14. Npn-1 was expressed in the ST and in the trigeminal tract at E14, but levels of the protein declined through E18. The expression levels of the binding partner of Npn-1, Sema-3A, increased from E14 to E18. Npn-2 was expressed in the ST and, additionally, in radially oriented, tuft-like structures within the brainstem at E14. Expression levels of Npn-2 also declined through E18, in contrast to the expression levels of its binding partner, Sema-3F, which increased during this time period. For the first time, the time course and particular molecular components involved in development of the ST have been identified. These results indicate that the neuropilin and semaphorin families of axon guidance molecules are potential molecular participants in ST formation.
Poster: Design and development of a virtual reality system for vocational rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities

This paper considers the design and development of a virtual reality system that aids in vocational rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities. The system focuses on three types of disabilities: autism spectrum disorder, traumatic brain injury, and severe mobility impairment. The system allows job trainers to rapidly assess the capabilities of individuals with disabilities, detect the most suitable job for them, and train them in a safe and motivating environment where there are no significant consequences of making errors. Design considerations and research questions that arise throughout development are shared to create awareness of the special considerations involved in developing virtual reality systems for individuals with disabilities.
Cysteine pKa Depression by a Protonated Glutamic Acid in Human DJ-1

Human DJ-1, a disease-associated protein that protects cells from oxidative stress, contains an oxidation-sensitive cysteine (C106) that is essential for its cytoprotective activity. The origin of C106 reactivity is obscure, due in part to the absence of an experimentally determined p K a value for this residue. We have used atomic-resolution X-ray crystallography and UV spectroscopy to show that C106 has a depressed p K a of 5.4 +/- 0.1 and that the C106 thiolate accepts a hydrogen bond from a protonated glutamic acid side chain (E18). X-ray crystal structures and cysteine p K a analysis of several site-directed substitutions at residue 18 demonstrate that the protonated carboxylic acid side chain of E18 is required for the maximal stabilization of the C106 thiolate. A nearby arginine residue (R48) participates in a guanidinium stacking interaction with R28 from the other monomer in the DJ-1 dimer and elevates the p K a of C106 by binding an anion that electrostatically suppresses thiol ionization. Our results show that the ionizable residues (E18, R48, and R28) surrounding C106 affect its p K a in a way that is contrary to expectations based on the typical ionization behavior of glutamic acid and arginine. Lastly, a search of the Protein Data Bank (PDB) produces several candidate hydrogen-bonded aspartic/glutamic acid-cysteine interactions, which we propose are particularly common in the DJ-1 superfamily.
Photoluminescence spectroscopy of individual nanocrystal quantum dots in high magnetic fields

Low temperature, polarization-resolved, magneto-photoluminescence studies of individual CdSe nanocrystals reveal a Zeeman splitting of spin-up and spin-down excitons in a subset of nanocrystals that have their wurzite-c axes aligned parallel to the applied field.
The Neurobiology of Learning and Memory: William James in Retrospect

William James did much to set the stage for psychobiology. Beyond insisting that brain structures and processes must be the basis of explanations of mental phenomena, he expressed ideas about brain localization and plasticity in neural networks that foreshadowed many aspects of current neurobiology of learning and even connectionist theory.
Reverse Engineering of Vaccine Antigens Using High Throughput Sequencing-enhanced mRNA Display

Abstract Vaccine reverse engineering is emerging as an important approach to vaccine antigen identification, recently focusing mainly on structural characterization of interactions between neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and antigens. Using mAbs that bind unknown antigen structures, we sought to probe the intrinsic features of antibody antigen-binding sites with a high complexity peptide library, aiming to identify conformationally optimized mimotope antigens that capture mAb-specific epitopes. Using a high throughput sequencing-enhanced messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) display approach, we identified high affinity binding peptides for a hepatitis C virus neutralizing mAb. Immunization with the selected peptides induced neutralizing activity similar to that of the original mAb. Antibodies elicited by the most commonly selected peptides were predominantly against specific epitopes. Thus, using mRNA display to interrogate mAbs permits high resolution identification of functional peptide antigens that direct targeted immune responses, supporting its use in vaccine reverse engineering for pathogens against which potent neutralizing mAbs are available. Research in Context We used a large number of randomly produced small proteins ("peptides") to identify peptides containing specific protein sequences that bind efficiently to an antibody that can prevent hepatitis C virus infection in cell culture. After the identified peptides were injected into mice, the mice produced their own antibodies with characteristics similar to the original antibody. This approach can provide previously unavailable information about antibody binding and could also be useful in developing new vaccines.
A REVIEW OF DRUGS THAT MAY BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH RADIOTHERAPY

The purpose of this review is to familiarize veterinarians with basic information regarding various combinations of drugs that have been used to attempt to improve the effectiveness of radiotherapy. Most of the drugs utilized function as either adjuvants, radioprotectors, radiosensitizers, or immunostimulants. Examples of these agents and their limitations in clinical veterinary radiotherapy are discussed.
Crime and Support for Democracy in Africa and Latin America

Much of the scholarship on democratization has a myopic focus on economic conditions. Using Afrobarometer and Latinobarometro survey data, the article examines how crime victimization and perceptions of crime influence citizens' attitudes toward democracy. After elaborating on several theoretical frameworks that help illuminate the relationship between crime and support for democracy, the article applies fixed effects and generalized hierarchical linear models to the cross-national survey data. The results show that a citizen's perception of public safety is as important a factor as any socio-economic variable in predicting support for and satisfaction with democracy. This finding is important because widespread support for democracy among the citizenry is considered a requisite for the consolidation of democracy.
Adverse Drug Reaction and Medication Error Reporting by Pharmacy Students

BACKGROUND:The reporting of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and medication errors is the responsibility of all who are involved, particularly pharmacists. Since pharmacists are often privy to information surrounding ADRs and medication errors, it is of utmost importance that they are educated regarding the procedures of reporting.OBJECTIVE:To determine pharmacy students' knowledge of and ability to report ADRs and medication errors.METHODS:A total of 1322 students from 9 colleges of pharmacy were surveyed.RESULTS:The largest group of respondents was fifth-year pharmacy students (38%) followed by third-, fourth-, and sixth-year students (28%, 26%, and 8%, respectively). The majority of students reported learning about ADR and medication error reporting programs via didactic experiences. In comparison, fewer students cited alternative mechanisms of learning, including experiential rotations and work experience. Overall, respondents demonstrated the most experience with MedWatch and the least experience with t...
Precision QED⊗QCD Resummation Theory for LHC Physics: Status and Update †

We present the elements of the IR-improved DGLAP-CS theory as it relates to the new MC friendly exponentiated scheme for precision calculation of higher order corrections to LHC physics in which IR singularities from both QED and QCD are canceled to all orders in α and in αs simultaneously in the presence of rigorous shower/ME matching. We present the first MC data comparing the implied new showers themselves with the standard ones using the HERWIG6.5 MC event generator as a test case at LHC energies. As expected, the IR-improved shower re-populates lower values of the energy fraction z and lower values of the attendant pT for the standard HERWIG6.5 input parameters. Possible phenomenological implications are discussed.
Detecting Super-Thin Clouds with Polarized Sunlight

We report a novel method for detecting cloud particles in the atmosphere. Solar radiation backscattered from clouds is studied with both satellite data and a radiative transfer model. A distinct feature is found in the angle of linear polarization of solar radiation that is backscattered from clouds. The dominant backscattered electric field from the clear-sky Earth-atmosphere system is nearly parallel to the Earth surface. However, when clouds are present, this electric field can rotate significantly away from the parallel direction. Model results demonstrate that this polarization feature can be used to detect super-thin cirrus clouds having an optical depth of only ~0.06 and super-thin liquid water clouds having an optical depth of only ~0.01. Such clouds are too thin to be sensed using any current passive satellite instruments.
Organization of the genes encoding complement receptors type 1 and 2, decay-accelerating factor, and C4-binding protein in the RCA locus on human chromosome 1

The organization and physical linkage of four members of a major complement locus, the RCA locus, have been determined using the technique of pulsed field gradient gel electrophoresis in conjunction with Southern blotting. The genes encoding CR1, CR2, DAF, and C4bp were aligned in that order within a region of 750 kb. In addition, the 5' to 3' orientation of the CR1 gene (5' proximal to CR2) was determined using 5'- and 3'-specific DNA probes. The proximity of these genes may be related to structural and functional homologies of the protein products. Overall, a restriction map including 1,500 kb of DNA was prepared, and this map will be important for positioning of additional coding sequences within this region on the long arm of chromosome 1.
Squamotympanic fissure in the Ngandong and Sambungmacan hominids: a reply to Delson et al.

In the present study the course of the squamotympanic fissure of the mandibular fossa is examined in several fossil hominid specimens. While previous work by several authors had found that the course of this fissure was potentially autapomorphic for the Ngandong and Sambungmacan fossil samples from Indonesia, a more recent study performed by Delson et al. (Anat Rec 2001; 262:380--397) reported that a number of other fossils, including OH 9, Sangiran 4 and 17, and KNM WT 15000 were similar to the Ngandong and Sambungmacan specimens in the expression of this feature. To test these findings, those specimens purported to share similarities with Ngandong and Sambungmacan were examined. The results of this study indicate clearly differing morphologies between the Ngandong and Sambungmacan fossils, on the one hand, and the four African and Indonesian fossils named by Delson et al. (2001). Hence, the course of the squamotympanic fissure remains a potentially autapomorphic feature separating the Ngandong and Sambungmacan samples from the remaining specimens allocated to Homo erectus.
Suppression of energy-relaxation-induced decoherence in Λ-type three-level SQUID flux qubits: A dark-state approach

We report a theoretical investigation of decoherence induced by energy relaxation of the auxiliary level in the $\ensuremath{\Lambda}$-type three-level SQUID flux qubits. We show that the energy-relaxation-induced decoherence in this particular case is proportional to the average population of the auxiliary level and thus can be effectively suppressed by the use of a dark-state approach in which the auxiliary level is unpopulated. We demonstrate through bit-flip operation that the dark state can be realized by means of the stimulated Raman adiabatic passage (STIRAP). An extension of the dark-state scheme to create any superposition state is straightforward.