cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Single-strand breaks in bacterial DNA associated with thymine starvation

Abstract A thymine-requiring strain of Escherichia coli containing a sex factor has been starved of thymine and examined by zone centrifugation in alkaline sucrose gradients for survival of circular sex factor DNA molecules. Circles are lost at a constant rate during the period of thymine starvation. This loss does not occur if either glucose, phosphate, or hypoxanthine (in a hypoxanthine-requirer) is absent and the loss is only slightly slower if required amino acids are eliminated. When the rates of loss are compared for two different sex factors, it is found that the rate is proportional to DNA molecular weight which indicates that the strand breaks which are responsible for circle loss do not occur at a unique site in the DNA molecule. It is hypothesized that the strand breaks are the result of some (unknown) normal process and are usually repaired by DNA ligase and that thymine starvation results in the production of some substance which inhibits DNA ligase.
Model-free Q-learning over finite horizon for uncertain linear continuous-time systems

In this paper, a novel optimal control over finite horizon has been introduced for linear continuous-time systems by using adaptive dynamic programming (ADP). First, a new time-varying Q-function parameterization and its estimator are introduced. Subsequently, Q-function estimator is tuned online by using both Bellman equation in integral form and terminal cost. Eventually, near optimal control gain is obtained by using the Q-function estimator. All the closed-loop signals are shown to be bounded by using Lyapunov stability analysis where bounds are functions of initial conditions and final time while the estimated control signal converges close to the optimal value. The simulation results illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed scheme.
GMM logistic regression models for longitudinal data with time-dependent covariates and extended classifications

When analyzing longitudinal data, it is essential to account both for the correlation inherent from the repeated measures of the responses as well as the correlation realized on account of the feedback created between the responses at a particular time and the predictors at other times. As such one can analyze these data using generalized estimating equation with the independent working correlation. However, because it is essential to include all the appropriate moment conditions as you solve for the regression coefficients, we explore an alternative approach using a generalized method of moments for estimating the coefficients in such data. We develop an approach that makes use of all the valid moment conditions necessary with each time-dependent and time-independent covariate. This approach does not assume that feedback is always present over time, or if present occur at the same degree. Further, we make use of continuously updating generalized method of moments in obtaining estimates. We fit the generalized method of moments logistic regression model with time-dependent covariates using SAS PROC IML and also in R. We used p-values adjusted for multiple correlated tests to determine the appropriate moment conditions for determining the regression coefficients. We examined two datasets for illustrative purposes. We looked at re-hospitalization taken from a Medicare database. We also revisited data regarding the relationship between the body mass index and future morbidity among children in the Philippines. We conducted a simulated study to compare the performances of extended classifications.
Estrogenic activity of fermented alfalfa.

Abstract Changes in estrogenic activity of first and second growth alfalfa due to fermentation in the silo and rumen were studied. With comparative methods of harvest and storage, first growth alfalfa was higher (P μ /kg dry matter) was: direct-cut silage, 132%; low-moisture silage, 23%; and that from rumen contents of an animal fed low-moisture silage, 189%. Trends were similar for second growth alfalfa but of a lower magnitude. A decrease (P
Generalized mixed finite element model for pre- and post-quasistatic buckling response of thin-walled framed structures

Adopting an updated Lagrangian approach, the general framework for the fully non-linear analysis of thin-walled framed structures is developed using a simple, two-node, C0-model (HMB2). The governing equations are derived based on a consistent linearization of an incremental mixed variational principle of modified Hellinger/Reissner type with independent assumptions for displacement and strain fields. All coupled significant modes of deformations, i.e. stretching, bending, shear, torsion and warping, are accounted for in the generalized-beam theory employed. Emphasis is placed on devising effective solution procedures to deal with finite rotations in space, particularly with regard to their effect on the derivations of load-correction matrices corresponding to configuration-dependent externally applied forces/moments. The effectiveness and practical usefulness of present model are demonstrated through a number of test problems involving beam assemblages undergoing large displacements and rotations in space.
Near-field optical magnetometry and magnetic imaging of nanomagnets

ABSTRACT We present an all-optical approach to detecting magnetization reversal events in submicron ferromagnetic structures that is non-perturbative and compatible with ultrafast optical techniques. We demonstrate experimentally that structures much smaller than the wavelength of light can be probed us ing both near-field and far-field laser techniques combined with a cavity Kerr enhancement technique and two different polarimetry methods. Controlled magnetization reversal events are detected in nickel magnets approaching the 100nm scale. This leads to a promising way to measure sub-picosecond dynamics of nanomagnets for fast device applications. Keywords: near-field polarimetry, near-field scanning optical microscopy, nanomagnetics, MOKE. *naser@soe.ucsc.edu 1. INTRODUCTION Optical methods based on the magneto-optic Kerr effect (MOKE) are used in the study of magnetization dynamics in ferromagnetic materials and provide a spatially resolved non-invasive approach that allows for higher temporal resolution than other commonly used methods
Structural Functionalism as a Heuristic Device

The purpose of this article is to argue that structural functionalism as a method for conducting fieldwork and as a format for analysis of ethnographic data remains a powerful model. Because of its mechanical nature, structural functionalism is easily understood by professional educators and useful in solving their problems. As a heuristic device, functionalist theory can provide aid in the solution of a problem that is otherwise incapable of theoretical justification.
Temporal variations in phytoplankton, particulates, and colored dissolved organic material based on optical properties during a Long Island brown tide compared to an adjacent embayment

Abstract Since 1985, the coastal embayments of Long Island, New York, have been plagued with recurrent blooms, aptly called brown tides, of the pelagophyte Aureococcus anophagefferens. The distinct ocean color observed during these blooms suggests that optical methods can be used as a tool to study, detect, and track brown tides. Thus, the goal of our project was to compare the optical properties and pigment composition during bloom and non-bloom conditions and assess temporal variations in the phytoplankton and other constituents in the seawater associated with bloom development. From 17 May to 8 June 2000, we measured a time series of particle size distributions and concentrations as well as size-fractioned algal pigments and optical properties in two Long Island embayments where brown tides are known to occur. During our study, A. anophagefferens represented an insignificant contribution to the algal community in West Neck Bay (WNB), whereas a bloom developed in Quantuck Bay (QB). Initially, temperature and salinity were similar at the two locations; however, bulk optical properties, chlorophyll, and particle concentrations were nearly a factor of 2 greater at QB. Bulk optical properties remained constant at WNB, yet increased exponentially at QB as the bloom developed. The composition of particulates, including phytoplankton, varied little at QB, and the optical properties suggested the dominance of A. anophagefferens (confirmed by microscopy). The largest temporal variations were observed in the colored dissolved organic material (CDOM); the colloidal (0.2–0.7 μm) fraction, exhibiting a strong protein-like signal, increased dramatically at the height of the bloom. At WNB particle sizes and algal composition varied despite the invariant bulk optical properties; CDOM variations were minimal. Overall, the optical properties in the two bays demonstrated that at QB temporal variations were dominated by biomass and colloidal protein changes, whereas shifts in the algal community occurred at WNB. This study demonstrates the utility of in situ optical observations to resolve temporal changes in the ecological conditions associated with algal bloom development.
A Role for Gene Duplication and Natural Variation of Gene Expression in the Evolution of Metabolism

Background Most eukaryotic genomes have undergone whole genome duplications during their evolutionary history. Recent studies have shown that the function of these duplicated genes can diverge from the ancestral gene via neo- or sub-functionalization within single genotypes. An additional possibility is that gene duplicates may also undergo partitioning of function among different genotypes of a species leading to genetic differentiation. Finally, the ability of gene duplicates to diverge may be limited by their biological function.
Molecular recognition of concanavalin A on mannoside diacetylene lipid monolayer at the air-water interface.

Abstract The interaction of p -10,12-pentacosadiyne-1- n -phenylamide α- d -mannopyranoside (MPDA) with protein concanavalin A (Con A) was studied at the air/water interface. The expansion of molecular area of PDA (10,12-pentacosadiynoic acid)/MPDA mixed monolayer after injection of Con A in subphase shows strong interaction between Con A and the monolayer. The maximum expansion of molecular area decreases as the molar ratio of MPDA increases due to the steric hindrance effect. By using enzyme mannosidase to cut-off the mannoside headgroup of MPDA, expansion of molecular area was greatly reduced, indicating that the binding of Con A is specific to the mannoside headgroup. The kinetics of the binding fits to the first order bimolecular reaction model. Fluorescence quenching of fluorescein isothiocyanate labeled Con A after injection into the subphase gives a direct proof of the molecular recognition.
3-D printed hand assisstive exoskeleton for actuated pinch and grasp

In the United States over 1 million Americans suffer from muscular disorders such as Multiple Sclerosis, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Parkinson's disease. Muscular disorders can affect the skeletal muscles that control hand movements by reducing strength and dexterity resulting in a loss of the hand's ability to perform everyday functional movements such as pinching and grasping. A power assistive exoskeleton was designed to amplify a user's residual strength and restore functional movements. This device incorporates a multi-digit mechanism comprising of a thumb, index, and grouped third MRS (middle, ring, small) digit. Each digit will provide flexion/extension through the coupling of a solenoid pneumatic actuator and a double action pneumatic cylinder working in compression. The double action pneumatic cylinders are connected to a polymer-braided cable that can produce a force on each digit allowing it to actuate. The solenoid pneumatic actuator is powered through a control system that receives sensor feedback from force sensing resistors placed on each digit, and converts it to an electrical signal. Preliminary testing will include the utilization of forearm EMG data obtained when the user performs daily tasks such as picking up a pencil, a 5 lb bag, and a water bottle with the exoskeleton. These results should present a reduction in pinching and grasping effort with respect to normal force production in each subject tested, and thereby successfully amplifying these movements and restoring hand functionality.
Individual Differences in Spatial Memory and Striatal ChAT Activity among Young and Aged Rats

Individual differences in spatial memory among young and aged rats were assessed using memory tasks related to integrity of the hippocampus and the neostriatum. Relationships were then examined between measures of spatial memory and regional choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) activity, a marker for cholinergic integrity. Twenty-four-month-old Long-Evans rats were impaired in comparisons with 6-month-old rats on measures of place learning, working memory, reference memory, and perseveration in water-maze tasks. Aged rats that were impaired on one measure of memory, however, were not necessarily impaired on other measures. ChAT activity in the ventromedial and dorsolateral neostriatum of aged rats was significantly reduced in comparisons with young rats whereas no difference was found in the hippocampus. Aged rats with the most ChAT activity in the anterior ventromedial neostriatum performed best on the place-learning and reference memory tasks but also made the most perseverative errors on the working memory task. In addition, young and aged rats with the most ChAT activity in the anterior dorsolateral neostriatum were those with the least accurate working memory. No relationships were found between ChAT activity in the hippocampus and spatial memory. Thus age-related memory impairment has components that can be segregated by measuring relationships between cholinergic integrity in subregions of the anterior neostriatum and memory tasks with different strategic requirements.
Restricted Maximum Likelihood Estimators for Poisson Parameters

Abstract Let X, Xi, Xij, j = 1, …, n, j = 1, …, ni be independent Poisson random variables with parameters λ, λ i , λ ij . The maximum likelihood estimators for the parameters subject to (1) and subject to (1) and (2) are obtained. The bias and MSE of these restricted maximum likelihood estimators (RMLE's) are approximated by analytic and Monte Carlo methods. In every case a substantial savings in MSE is obtained at the expense of a small loss in bias when using RMLE's instead of unrestricted MLE's. The restrictions could be generalized to other linear restrictions.
Newly Discovered Boyle Documents in the Royal Society Archive: Alchemical Tracts and His Student Notebook

The life, works and influence of Robert Boyle (1627-1691) have been receiving greatly increased attention of late. Boyle scholars continue to enrich our image of Boyle by filling out his career in terms of his roles not only as a natural philosopher, theologian, and founding member of the Royal Society, but also as a rhetorician, moralist, and alchemist. Historical evidence for Boyle’s presently less well-known activities has been provided by examining his published writings in a more comprehensive and less programmatic way, and by scrutinizing the mass of surviving manuscript material (in excess of 14 000 pages) preserved in the Royal Society archives and at the British Library, where there are a few items among Thomas Birch’s manuscripts. In spite of the great volume of these surviving papers, there is a large amount of significant manuscript material known to have existed which is not now extant in the archive. For example, Boyle wrote a Dialogue on the Transmutation and Melioration of Metals which appears repeatedly in inventory lists drawn up towards the end of his life. At present, however, all that survives are rough first or second drafts and a fragment of a Latin translation. Had such a work survived in its entirety, Boyle’s role in early modem chemistry might now be portrayed quite differently, for even the fragmentary existing text displays Boyle’s largely suppressed or ignored alchemical interests and beliefs. (The surviving text, edited and annotated by the present author, will be published shortly.) This Dialogue , however, is far from being the only potentially instructive text now missing. About a hundred other texts are missing, comprising a diverse array of topics from a conjectural discourse ‘On the Fuel of the Solar Fire’ to an ‘Apology for Romances’. In an effort to find some of these manuscripts I recently undertook a renewed search of the Royal Society archives and located another seven items related to Boyle, two of which have special importance.
Testing Eggs Prior to Incubation

Abstract HATCHERYMEN often inquire about the practicability of testing eggs for hatchability prior to incubation. It is often the practice to test eggs for cracks either by tapping them together and by visual examination in daylight or by candling but there is little information as to the value of this practice or as to whether eggs having other defects affecting hatchability might also be tested prior to incubation. Experiments were undertaken at the National Agricultural Research Center, Beltsville, Maryland, to answer this question. Six incubations were run in the months of April to August, inclusive, of lots of eggs one day to one week old tested before the candle or by means of tapping and visual observation in daylight. Seven individuals with various amounts of candling experience examined different lots of eggs. The junior author tested one lot of eggs by tapping and daylight inspection and one lot by candling for . . .
Beyond Lip-service: An Operational Definition of “Learning-centered College”

Faculty, staff, and student perceptions of high-quality learning experiences were explored using focus groups attempting to define a “learning-centered” college. Common themes emerged suggesting that a successful learning community requires faculty-student collaboration, effective communication, critical thinking skills, reciprocal respect, faculty passion for learning, high expectations of both students and faculty, a variety of teaching and assessment strategies, and student engagement in and responsibility for learning. All groups stressed the need for learning opportunities outside the classroom in both intellectual and social situations. These themes provide a conceptual framework for future campus initiatives, which has broad relevance for other institutions.
Variable Grating Mode Liquid Crystal Device for Optical Processing Computing

Abstract Certain nematic liquid crystal mixtures are observed to form a “variable grating mode” (VGM) for appropriate choices of cell design and applied voltage. In this mode of operation, a phase grating in the plane of the cell arises from a periodic variation in the orientation of the liquid crystal director. The grating spatial frequency is observed to vary linearly as a function of the applied voltage above the formation threshold. Liquid crystal and device parameters characteristic of the observed variable grating mode are presented. Utilization of the VGM effect in a photo-conductively-addressed device is shown to provide an intensity-to-spatial frequency conversion. Applications of this unique type of optical transducer to arbitrary nonlinear optical processing problems are described. Results of level slicing experiments and implementation of optical logic functions are presented.
Chemistry and biology of N-(7-nitrobenz-2-oxa-1,3-diazol-4-yl)-labeled lipids: fluorescent probes of biological and model membranes

Lipids that are covalently labeled with the 7-nitrobenz-2-oxa-1,3-diazol-4-yl (NBD) group are widely used as fluorescent analogues of native lipids in model and biological membranes to study a variety of processes. The fluorescent NBD group may be attached either to the polar or the apolar regions of a wide variety of lipid molecules. Synthetic routes for preparing the lipids, and spectroscopic and ionization properties of these probes are reviewed in this report. The orientation of various NBD-labeled lipids in membranes, as indicated by the location of the NBD group, is also discussed. The NBD group is unchanrged at neutral pH in membranes, but loops up to the surface if attached to acyl chains of phospholipids. These lipids find applications in a variety of membrane-related studies which include membrane fusion, lipid motion and dynamics, organization of lipids and proteins in membranes, intracellular lipid transfer, and bilayer to hexagonal phase transition in liposomes. Use of NBD-labeled lipids asanalogues of natural lipids is critically evaluated.
DOUBLE-DIP CAUSTIC PEELING OF POTATOES I: LABORATORY-SCALE DEVELOPMENT

A modified caustic peeling process for potatoes was developed and evaluated. The process, called the double-dip process, comprises two separate caustic applications with an intervening holding period. Results on Russet Burbank potatoes showed that tissue removal was enhanced for the double-dip process when compared to the standard single dip process and that the double-dip process can effect reduction in caustic usage without requiring additional heat input.
Vibrational circular dichroism in molecules of pharmaceutical interest

Vibrational circular dichroism (VCD) spectra provide information on the solution conformations of chiral molecules. The CH-, OH-, NH-, and C equals O-stretching VCD features are particularly useful conformational probes. Molecules of pharmaceutical interest studied by VCD include biomimetic iron carriers, unsaturated peptides, the anticancer drug taxol and a series of type I antiarrhythmic drugs.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Evolving self-rated health in middle and old age: How does it differ across black, hispanic, and White Americans?

Objective:This research focuses on ethnic variations in the intraindividual changes in self-rated health. Method: Data came from the Health and Retirement Study involving up to 6 repeated observations between 1995 and 2006 of a national sample of 18,486 Americans above 50 years of age. Hierarchical linear models were employed in depicting variations in self-rated health across White, Black, and Hispanic Americans. Results: Subjective health worsened over time albeit moderately. Relative to younger persons, older individuals rated their health poorer with a greater rate of deteriorating health. With reference to ethnic variations in the intercept and slope of perceived health, White Americans rated their health most positively, followed by Black Americans, with Hispanics rating their health least positively. This pattern held even when socioeconomic status, social networks, and prior health were adjusted. Discussion: Significant ethnic differences exist in the evolvement of self-rated health in middle and late life. Further inquiries may include analyzing ethnic heterogeneities from a person-centered perspective, health disparities across subgroups of Hispanics, effects of neighborhood attributes, and implications of left truncation.
Topical treatment for moccasin-type tinea pedis

Sixty patients were treated for tinea pedis with 2% topical ketoconazole cream either once or twice daily. All diagnoses were confirmed mycologically. They were randomly assigned in a double-blind study into three groups on the basis of their clinical lesions, that is, vesicular pedis, interdigital pedis, and hyperkeratotic "moccasin" pedis. Patients were treated for a period of 1 month and were evaluated weekly. A 4-week posttreatment evaluation permitted an assessment of recurrence or improvement. The follow-up visits showed 93% of the vesicular patients, 86% of the interdigital patients, and 83% of the moccasin patients had responded to topical ketoconazole therapy. The high percent of clinical efficacy seen in the first two groups corroborates treatment experiences held by most practicing dermatologists. Of practical interest, however, was the high number of responders among the moccasin-type of tinea pedis. Dermatologists rarely consider topical treatment useful for this clinical entity.
Wortmannin and 1-butanol block activation of a novel family of protein kinases in neutrophils.

Neutrophils contain four uncharacterized protein kinases with molecular masses of ca. 69, 63, 49 and 40 kDa that are rapidly activated upon stimulation of these cells with the chemoattractant fMet-Leu-Phe [Ding, J. and Badwey, J.A. (1993) J. Biol. Chem. 268, 17326–17333]. We now report that wortmannin and 1-butanol block activation of all four of these kinases. These reagents are known to inhibit superoxide generation in neutrophils stimulated with this agonist. Wortmannin inhibits phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and blocks activation of phospholipase D, whereas 1-butanol can reduce the generation of phosphatidate in cells by serving as a substrate for phospholipase D. These data suggest that phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and phospholipase D may be involved in the activation of several novel protein kinases in neutrophils and that one or more of these kinases is/are involved in superoxide release.
Wave-particle transport from density drift instabilities: A comparison of local and nonlocal theories

Second-order Vlasov theory is used to compute the dissipation rates of plasma irregularities with a variety of shapes. A derivation of the nonlocal dispersion equation using linearized Vlasov theory is presented. Expressions for the normalized amplitudes of the first-order plasma density and electrostatic potential fluctuations are derived. Expressions are given for the saturation amplitudes of the electrostatic eigenmodes. The wave-particle transport and irregularity dissipation rate are computed by using formulas whose derivation is presented. Computational results for specific density variations are shown, and conclusions on the validity of the local theory as opposed to the nonlocal theory are given.
Palaeomagnetic stratigraphy of the Koobi Fora Formation, east of Lake Turkana (Lake Rudolf), Kenya (reply)

Palaeomagnetic stratigraphy of the Koobi Fora Formation, east of Lake Turkana (Lake Rudolf), Kenya (reply)
Biological Markers of Alzheimer’s Disease

AS a practicing clinician, what I’d most like to know to improve the care of my future Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients would be 1) what event(s) cause AD, 2) how can I tell when this event will or has begun to occur even before clinical deterioration is evident, 3) what treatments can be used to prevent this event from happening or prevent the pathologic sequella of this event, and 4) how can I be sure that the treatment applied is working in a given patient? Points 2 and 4 require the ideal biological marker of AD. If we knew what the causative event(s) of AD was, we could describe this ideal biological marker. Some of the characteristics would be:
Ro (SSA) and La (SSB) Antibodies

This review traces the historical development of information regarding the Ro (SSA) and La (SSB) autoantibody systems over the past twenty years. Clinical and serologic findings are integrated with fundamental observations in this rapidly expanding area of research. Retrospective analysis of the physicochemical properties of the antigens and the cellular staining characteristics of antibodies to these antigens suggest that SjD and Ro and SSA, as well as SjT and La, SSB, and Ha antigens probably are similar macromolecules. The immunologic identity of Ro with SSA and La with SSB and Ha has been established previously. Antibodies to these antigens are directed against macromolecules containing small RNA nucleotides.
Testicular torsion: direction, degree, duration and disinformation.

ABSTRACTPurpose: We reviewed and contrast with the literature the cumulative clinical experience at our pediatric urological division in the last 20 years with managing testicular torsion, focusing specifically on the direction and degree of testicular torsion and the duration of symptoms before presentation. We also addressed the incidence of gastrointestinal symptoms, role of manual detorsion, residual torsion and incidence of atrophy.Materials and Methods: We reviewed the medical records of 200 consecutive males 18 months to 20 years old who underwent surgical exploration by a pediatric urologist for a diagnosis of testicular torsion between 1980 and 2000.Results: Of 186 nonelective explorations symptoms were localized to the left side in 52% and to the right side in 48%. Information on the direction and degree of testicular rotation was available in 162 of 186 cases (87%) and anticipated medial rotation occurred in only 108 (67%). Lateral rotation in 54 of 162 cases (33%) occurred in 28 of 84 (33%) wi...
Structural studies on mitotic spindles isolated from cultured human cells.

Mitotic spindles isolated in hexylene glycol from HeLa cells have been examined with the light and electron microscopes. Spindles prepared in divalent cation-free medium are birefringent and phase dense; they contain many microtubules clustered in bundles and some intertubule matrix, but they lack chromosomes. A residuum of the kinetochores is identifiable, so a distinction between kinetochore and nonkinetochore tubules is possible. High-voltage electron microscopy of whole spindles yields a holistic, high-space-resolution image which confirms previous ideas about spindle structure and shows graphically that a mammalian spindle is constructed from intermingled kinetochore and nonkinetochore tubules. Fragments of spindles in our preparations aid in the interpretation of the complex images of whole spindles. This approach reveals that bundles of microtubules containing those bound to the kinetochore are firmly attached to the poles; that there are nonkinetochore tubules at metaphase and anaphase; and the interzone tubule bundles are polymorphic. The significance of these results is discussed.
Binding characteristics of the dopamine uptake inhibitor [3H]nomifensine to striatal membranes☆

Binding of the radiolabeled antidepressant [3H]nomifensine to rat and rabbit striatal membranes has been characterized. The specific binding of [3H]nomifensine to striatal membranes was stable, reversible and saturable. Saturation experiments indicated that [3H]nomifensine labeled a single site with an affinity (Kd) of 80 nM and a total number of binding sites (Bmax) of 6.5 pmoles/mg protein both in rat and rabbit striatal membranes. The affinity constants obtained from kinetic analyses and competition experiments were in fairly good agreement with those obtained in saturation experiments. Compounds known to inhibit [3H]dopamine uptake in vitro, such as nomifensine, 4-hydroxy-nomifensine, mazindol, amfonelic acid and benztropine, were the most potent competitors of nomifensine binding. Additionally, the absolute potencies of various drugs in competing for [3H]nomifensine binding to rat and rabbit striatal membranes correlated closely with their potencies in inhibiting [3H]dopamine uptake into striatal synaptosomes. Specific [3H]nomifensine binding was dependent on the presence of NaCl which is also consistent with its association with the dopamine uptake pump. The number, but not the affinity, of striatal [3H]nomifensine binding sites was reduced significantly following in vivo lesions with 6-hydroxydopamine. The number of [3H]nomifensine binding sites was found to be highest in areas rich in dopamine nerve terminals such as the striatum and olfactory tubercle. These results suggest that [3H]nomifensine binds to a site on dopaminergic nerve terminals associated with the dopamine uptake pump.
“SOME ASIAN MEN ARE ATTRACTIVE TO ME, BUT FOR A HUSBAND …”

Two indicators of race relations in the United States are interracial marriage and transracial adoption. We examine the salience of race in the romantic involvements of Korean adoptees, and we argue that mainstream racial discourses influence romantic preferences across variations in personal experience, local demographics, and social distance. Applying a dating-history approach to a probability sample of semistructured interviews with fifty-eight adult Korean adoptees, we demonstrate how racial discourses influence romantic preferences by shaping adoptees' interpretations of their romantic involvements across a range of structural conditions, and we also identify specific conditions that limit their salience. In brief, we introduce a conception of romantic preference that bridges the existing constructs in the qualitative and the quantitative literatures on interracial marriage.
Are biomarkers useful for assessing cardiovascular risk in patients with chronic kidney disease

PURPOSE OF REVIEW Chronic kidney disease is now recognized as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular events, and cardiovascular disease is the major cause of mortality in patients with the disease. Recent studies have attempted to evaluate the utility of biomarkers for assessing cardiovascular risk in patients with chronic kidney disease. This review will summarize these studies and critically assess the utility of cardiovascular risk biomarkers for clinical practice. RECENT FINDINGS Traditional cardiovascular risk factors including dyslipidemia, hypertension, smoking and diabetes mellitus are highly prevalent in patients with chronic kidney disease. Although prediction models using traditional risk factors underestimate cardiovascular disease risk in these patients, nontraditional biomarkers (i.e. markers of inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, myocardial necrosis, and left ventricular remodeling) have been associated with increased cardiovascular event rates and mortality risk in populations with and without chronic kidney disease. Moreover, a high prevalence of biomarkers that are directly attributable to loss of kidney function is observed in patients with the disease. SUMMARY Recent studies suggest only limited utility of either single or multiple biomarkers of cardiovascular risk as prognostic tools in patients with and without chronic kidney disease. Novel approaches for biomarker development capturing augmented information through a systems biology approach are urgently needed to improve the usefulness of cardiovascular risk biomarkers.
Vasopressin mRNA in situ hybridization: localization and regulation studied with oligonucleotide cDNA probes in normal and Brattleboro rat hypothalamus.

Abstract Hybridizable vasopressin mRNA may be quantitatively localized in situ in sections from rat hypothalamus. Radiolabeled oligonucleotide cDNA probes, synthesized by chemical and enzymatic means, provide strong hybridization in zones known to contain vasopressin cell bodies. Multiple single-stranded 32P-, 35S-, or 3H-labeled oligonucleotides demonstrate localized hybridization that increases as probes are lengthened from 8 to 75 bases. Competition studies, RNase experiments, anatomic localization, and use of multiple probes all support hybridization specificity. An approximate doubling of hybridizable mRNA in both supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei can be detected with dehydration of the animals. Hybridizable mRNA densities are virtually normal in hypothalamic nuclei of Brattleboro rats given free access to water. These methods can provide insight into regional mRNA dynamics and may reflect functional activity of peptidergic neurons.
Grain Boundary Shunt Currents Across a pn Junction

The effect on the diode characteristics when a conducting grain boundary intersects a pn junction is analyzed. The possibilities of conducting grain boundaries are related to the levels associated with precipitates at the grain boundary. The effect of the grain boundary on the diode characteristics is found particularly degrading when donor impurities precipitate in the n region while simultaneously acceptor impurities precipitate in the p region. Both solar cell characteristics and the dark diode characteristics are analyzed.
Beyond the Lynn White Thesis: Congregational Effects on Environmental Concern

An extensive literature has explored the effects of religion on opinions about environmental protection and action on environmental issues, but has largely concerned itself with the effects of theology as inspired by the Lynn White thesis. However, religion is multifaceted and any complete study should also incorporate the social dimensions of religious experience. In this article, we employ a unique data set to demonstrate the varied informational effects of church membership on environmental attitudes. We find that social sources of information in the church shape the dimensions of religious belief and exert much stronger effects on attitudes on the environment than do doctrinal or religiosity measures.
Endocrine and genomic architecture of life history trade-offs in an avian model of social behavior.

Abstract Life history trade-offs can drive the evolution of alternative phenotypes, the expression of which is usually under hormonal control. Here, I review the endocrine and genetic bases of a trade-off between parental and competitive behavior in an increasingly popular model of social behavior, the white-throated sparrow ( Zonotrichia albicollis ). Within a population, approximately half of the individuals of this species exhibit a tan stripe (TS) on the crown and adopt a parental strategy, whereas the other half exhibit a white stripe (WS) and adopt a competitive strategy that manifests as increased territorial aggression and mate finding. We and others have shown evidence that the two morphs differ with respect to HPG function; for example, plasma levels of gonadal steroids differ between the morphs in both sexes. Comparing the morphs with regard to hormone levels gives only limited information about causal mechanisms, however, and preliminary behavioral studies in males suggest that morph differences in plasma androgens do not completely explain morph differences in territorial aggression. The polymorphism segregates with a structural rearrangement of chromosome 2 (ZAL2 m ), which offers a unique and powerful starting point on which to base a more targeted approach. An ongoing effort to characterize the ZAL2 m arrangement using modern genomic techniques has revealed two included inversions that have captured a number of endocrine genes, linking them together as a potential “supergene”. This finding is compelling in light of classic hypotheses regarding the evolution of alternative phenotypes, which predict the involvement of linked genes with pleiotropic and/or antagonistic effects that cause disruptive selection toward alternative optima. Similar predictions apply to the evolution of sex and sex chromosomes, which strongly resemble the ZAL2 m system. Overall, the white-throated sparrow represents an ideal model in which to study the genetic and endocrine bases of life history strategies and their evolution.
Comparative performance evaluation of code-spread OFDM

Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) is a popular technique used to combat frequency selective fading in multipath channels. When spectral nulls are present in the channel, they can severely degrade or cancel out several OFDM tones, resulting in an irreducible error rate. In Code-Spread OFDM (CS-OFDM), each sinewave carries a weighted sum of all the information symbols being transmitted in an OFDM block interval. In this paper, an MMSE estimator is derived for each symbol for a number of cases, including when the number of carriers is greater than the number of symbols. The performance of CS-OFDM is evaluated using Hadamard, Vandermonde, and Discrete Cosine spreading and compared to standard OFDM.
Meta-analysis of the association between a serotonin transporter promoter polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) and anxiety-related personality traits

Anxiety-related personality traits, such as NEO neuroticism and TCI/TPQ harm avoidance, have been shown to have significant genetic components. To date, however, no specific genetic variants that contribute to these traits have been conclusively identified. At least 26 studies have investigated a putative association between a functional serotonin transporter promoter polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) and anxiety-related personality traits. The results of these studies have been inconsistent with some studies finding evidence for an association, and others not. We performed a meta-analysis of all applicable studies investigating this association. In the overall analysis (N = 5,629 subjects), we found suggestive evidence for an association between the 5-HTTLPR short allele (s) and increased anxiety-related personality trait scores (P = 0.087). However, we also found strong evidence for heterogeneity. This heterogeneity is largely explained by substantial variation between the studies in the inventory used. When the analysis was stratified by inventory type, there was a significant association between 5-HTTLPR and NEO neuroticism (P = 0.000016), a non-significant association between 5-HTTLPR and TCI/TPQ harm avoidance (P = 0.166), and no association between 5-HTTLPR and other anxiety-related personality traits (P = 0.944). There was no evidence that these results were either due to publication bias or accounted for by any one single study. We conclude that there is a strong association between the serotonin transporter promoter variant and neuroticism as measured in the NEO personality inventory and that non-replications are largely due to small sample size and the use of different inventories.
1.6-W cw coherent power from large-index-step (Δ n=0.1) antiguided laser arrays

Near-resonant antiguided arrays with large effective-index step between element and interelement regions have been developed. 2.2 X diffraction-limited beamwidth (0.67 degrees) at 1.6 W and 9 X threshold in CW operation has been achieved. 1 W power resides in the central lobe. The external differential quantum efficiency and threshold current are 40% and 0.4 A, respectively, for 1 mm-long devices of 191 micrometer emitting aperture. The power conversion efficiency at 1.6 W is 23%. The thermal lensing effect in high-index-step near-resonant antiguided array hardly affects high-order modes and therefore, about 2 X diffraction-limited beam can be maintained to high powers.
Design and analysis of a new conductivity-modulated power MOSFET

A MOSFET has been developed to offer a performance tradeoff between the ON-resistance, or the forward conduction capability, and the gate turn-on/turn-off switching speed. This conductivity-modulated power DMOS structure (CMDMOS) features a minority-carrier injector adjacent to the current path which allows electrical control of the switching speed/ON-resistance tradeoff. This paper presents an analytical model for the ON-resistance of the device. In this model, the injector hole concentration and the extent of conductivity modulation in the drift region are obtained as functions of the injector current, the drain current, and the device geometry. This work leads to a better understanding of the effect of conductivity modulation, and results in a new power device which provides substantial flexibility in trading off ON-resistance and switching speed. >
Vector Wave Diffraction at Crustal Discontinuities I. Basic Theory, Rayleigh Waves at the Continental Margin

Summary In this report, the first of a series on the analytic continuation of wave functions past discontinuities, we introduce an elementary procedure for the solution of problems involving the diffraction of vector fields. In particular, the report discusses the propagation of Rayleigh waves incident obliquely upon the continental margin. The ’crustal layering on either side of the coastline is modelled mathematically as a two-part boundary layer in such a fashion that the relevant reflection and transmission coefficients emerge as elementary algebraic expressions. The procedure permitting such a solution to be found is to introduce a diffraction analogue of the well-known procedure in electrical engineering : replace a transmission line network by a lumped parameter equivalent in a specified frequency or wave number domain.
Stream channel and habitat changes due to flow augmentation

A previously ephemeral stream is being used to convey water and create fish habitat as part of mitigation for impacts of a transbasin water diversion project. This stream, the South Fork of Middle Crow Creek, is located in the Medicine Bow National Forest, Wyoming. After two years of increased flow to the 8.8 km study reach, the amount of stream channel had increased 32 per cent and the total area of beaver ponds had more than doubled. Brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) stocked into the beaver ponds are surviving and growing. Factors limiting fishery development in the augmented stream include interrupted flow, discontinuous channels, and summer water temperatures exceeding 25°C. Analysis using the Physical Habitat Simulation System indicated that a flow of 0.07m3s−1 would maximize the amount of weighted usable area for brook trout under the channel conditions present in 1987.
Modulation by dietary sodium intake of melanocortin 3 receptor mRNA and protein abundance in the rat kidney.

γ-Melanocyte stimulating hormone (γ-MSH) is a circulating natriuretic peptide hormone derived from proopiomelanocortin (POMC); its concentration in plasma and pituitary POMC mRNA abundance, increas...
Genetic analysis workshop III: A biological model

A model for gene mapping that incorporates the concept of a limited crossover distribution is presented and applied to data simulated for GAW III.
Remotely sensed river surface features compared with modeling and in situ measurements

[1] Images of river surface features that reflect the bathymetry and flow in the river have been obtained using remote sensing at microwave, visible, and infrared frequencies. The experiments were conducted at Jetty Island near the mouth of the Snohomish River at Everett, Washington, where complex tidal flow occurs over a varied bathymetry, which was measured as part of these experiments. An X band (9.36 GHz) Doppler radar was operated from the river bank and produced images of normalized radar cross sections and radial surface velocities every 20 min over many tidal cycles. The visible and infrared instruments were flown in an airplane. All of these techniques showed surface evidence of frontal features, flow over a sill, and flow conditioned by a deep hole. These features were modeled numerically, and the model results correspond well to the remote observations. In situ measurements made near the hole showed that changes in measured velocities correlate well with the occurrence of the features in the images. In addition to tidal phase, the occurrence of these features in the imagery depends on tidal range. The surface roughness observed in the imagery appears to be generated by the bathymetry and flow themselves rather than by the modulation of wind waves.
Estimating Population Treatment Effects From a Survey Subsample

We considered the problem of estimating an average treatment effect for a target population using a survey subsample. Our motivation was to generalize a treatment effect that was estimated in a subsample of the National Comorbidity Survey Replication Adolescent Supplement (2001–2004) to the population of US adolescents. To address this problem, we evaluated easy-to-implement methods that account for both nonrandom treatment assignment and a nonrandom 2-stage selection mechanism. We compared the performance of a Horvitz-Thompson estimator using inverse probability weighting and 2 doubly robust estimators in a variety of scenarios. We demonstrated that the 2 doubly robust estimators generally outperformed inverse probability weighting in terms of mean-squared error even under misspecification of one of the treatment, selection, or outcome models. Moreover, the doubly robust estimators are easy to implement and provide an attractive alternative to inverse probability weighting for applied epidemiologic researchers. We demonstrated how to apply these estimators to our motivating example.