cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
PAS reaction stains phagocytosed atypical mycobacteria in paraffin sections

In 4% formaldehyde-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues, PAS negativity for mycobacteria in the literature has been axiomatic. However, recent observations of disseminated human mycobacteriosis have shown that intracellular (phagocytosed) organisms stained strongly positive with the routine PAS technique. This staining was abolished by a sequential hydrolytic procedure, which suggests that the carbohydrate residues of the mycobacterial peptidoglycolipids are responsible for the reaction. This staining characteristic in tissue sections is of diagnostic importance, since few bacteria of medical relevance are concomitantly acid-fast and PAS positive. The nature of this affinity is for the aqueous form of basic fuchsin.
HEAT TRANSPORT IN FLOWING SUBCOOLED HELIUM II

There are definite limitations to the maximum heat flux that can be axially transported in a He II filled channel. The present study investigates the effect of forced convection on these limitations defined by the destruction of superfluidity at the heated surface and the jump to film boiling. Three regions of heat transfer and transport are identified in the experiment: (1) non-boiling He II the behavior of which is not affected by velocity of flow, (2) two-phase boiling He I and He II and (3) boiling He I. Results are analyzed in terms of heat balance and two fluid hydrodynamics.
Ultra-high heat flux dissipation with Piranha Pin Fins

Abstract The Microfluidic, Extreme heat flux, CMOS compatible, Heat-eXchanger (MECH-X) is an embeddable silicon-based reactor-style heat sink which has been experimentally studied by the authors. The 800 µm thick MEMS heat sink discretizes the working fluid into stacked primary and secondary chambers to enhance phase change heat transfer. Piranha Pin-Fin (PPF) microstructures—reported previously by the authors—have been employed in the primary reaction chamber. The PPF structures vent higher-enthalpy fluid into a secondary, or booster, chamber for additional heat transfer. The MECH-X system has been shown to dissipate heat loads exceeding 10,000,000 W/m2 with dielectric fluid HFE7000 while maintaining surface temperatures below 95 °C. The present work reports on flow boiling experiments performed to characterize system-level performance of the MECH-X heat sink at mass fluxes of 680, 1440, and 3350 kg/s/m2. HFE7000 was used as a coolant at ambient lab temperature (∼23 °C) and a system pressure of 377 kPa. A 3.95 mm2 heating element, which simulated a heat generating component, was maintained below 95 °C with heats loads exceeding 1 kW/cm2. Experiments were terminated at this heat flux due to saturating a 50 VDC laboratory power supply. Results are also presented at a system pressure of 239 kPa, and results are compared to first generation PPF heat sinks.
Hostility, forgiveness, and cognitive impairment over 10 years in a national sample of American adults.

OBJECTIVE We examined the extent to which self-forgiveness and forgiveness of others moderated the association of hostility with changes in cognitive impairment over 10 years in a nationally representative sample of adults in the United States. METHOD Participants were 1,084 respondents to the Americans' Changing Lives survey, a longitudinal study of American adults. Hostility, self-forgiveness, forgiveness of others, and cognitive impairment were measured at baseline, and cognitive impairment was assessed again at follow-up. Moderated multiple regression analyses tested whether self-forgiveness and forgiveness of others moderated the association of hostility with changes in cognitive impairment over time, controlling for baseline cognitive impairment and relevant sociodemographic and clinical factors. RESULTS As hypothesized, greater hostility levels at baseline predicted more cognitive impairment 10 years later, β = .08, p < .01. In addition, self-forgiveness at baseline moderated the association between baseline hostility and cognitive impairment at follow-up, β = -.07, p < .01. Decomposing this interaction revealed that hostility significantly predicted increased cognitive impairment at follow-up for individuals with low, β = .15, p < .001, and average, β = .08, p = .001, levels of self-forgiveness but not for persons with high levels of self-forgiveness, β = .03, p = .34. In contrast, forgiveness of others was not a significant moderator. CONCLUSIONS Greater hostility is associated with the development of more cognitive impairment over 10 years, and being more self-forgiving appears to mitigate these hostility-related effects on cognition. Enhancing self-forgiveness may thus represent one possible strategy for promoting cognitive resilience in adulthood. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved).
Genomics of posttraumatic stress disorder in veterans: Methods and rationale for Veterans Affairs Cooperative Study #575B.

Objectives Heritability in the risk for developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has been established, but most genome-wide association studies (GWASs) of PTSD involve relatively small sample sizes and limited identification of associated genetic loci. This report describes the methodology of a Veterans Affairs (VA) Cooperative Studies Program GWAS of PTSD among combat-exposed U.S. veterans. Methods Probable cases (with PTSD) and probable controls (without PTSD) were identified from among veterans enrolled in the VA Million Veteran Program (MVP) with an algorithm developed using questionnaire responses and electronic health record information. This algorithm, based on a statistical model, relied on medical chart reviews as a reference standard and was refined using telephone interviews. Subsequently, to evaluate the impact of probabilistic phenotyping on statistical power, the threshold probability for case-control selection was varied in simulations. Results As of September 2018, >695,000 veterans have enrolled in MVP. For current analyses, genotyping data were available for >353,000 participants, including >83,000 combat-exposed veterans. A threshold probability of 0.7 for case and control designation yielded an interim >16,000 cases and >33,000 controls. Conclusions A formal methodological approach was used to identify cases and controls for subsequent GWAS analyses to identify genetic risk loci for PTSD.
Duality and combinatorics of long strings in

Abstract The counting of long strings in ADS 3 , in the context of type IIB string theory on ADS 3 ×S 3 ×T 4 , is used to exhibit the action of the duality group O(5,5;Z) , and in particular its Weyl subgroup S 5 ⋈Z 2 , in the non-perturbative phenomena associated with continuous spectra of states in these backgrounds. The counting functions are related to states in Fock spaces. The symmetry groups also appear in the structure of compactifications of instanton moduli spaces on T 4 .
Catalytically active, ordered films of proteins, surfactants and polyelectrolytes on electrodes

This paper reviews recent results on electrochemistry and electrochemical catalysis using stable, cast films containing proteins and surfactants. The first example of electrochemistry in such films involved in iron heme protein myoglobin (Mb), which gave greatly enhanced electron transfer rates in lamellar liquid crystal films of insoluble surfactants. Strongly adsorbed surfactant at the electrode-film interface inhibits adsorption of denatured proteins which otherwise block electron
Alfred D. Chandler’s integrated learning base: Towards the classification and measurement of corporate innovation:

Although scholarship in business history has long recognised the importance of managerial and technological knowledge capital as drivers of corporate growth, scholars have made little progress towa...
The benefit of the CSSLP certification for educators and professionals

The Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional (CSSLP) is a new certification from (ISC)2®. This certification purports to confirm that the professional can skillfully incorporate security into all phases of the software lifecycle. Many security experts have consistently championed the philosophy that better design, implementation, and operation of software can prevent many of the security problems that plague ubiquitous computing. This paper discusses the value to computing educators and to information technology professionals of preparing for, taking, and obtaining the CSSLP certification.
Partisan Intoxication or Policy Voting

Many political scientists believe that partisanship is an arbitrary psychological attachment that exerts a drug-like effect on voters' decisions. An implication is that voters don't care much about policy or government performance, and instead, elections are just a roll call of intoxicated partisans. I review and reassess the evidence for this view, concluding that there is no compelling evidence to support it. For many empirical tests, partisan intoxication and policy voting are observationally equivalent. Rare opportunities to partially distinguish between these possibilities like the southern realignment suggest that policy voting is more prevalent. When I conduct new tests utilizing survey experiments about hypothetical candidates, the weight of the evidence favors policy voting.
Glucocorticoid-induced ocular hypertension: origins and new approaches to minimize

Glucocorticoids (GCs) have unique actions in their combined anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive activities and are among the most commonly prescribed drugs, particularly for inflammatory condit...
Diagnostic morphology and solid-state chemical speciation of hydrothermally derived particulate Fe in a long-range dispersing plume

Deep-sea hydrothermal vents are a source of Fe to the ocean with potential impact on surface ocean primary productivity. Long-range horizontal transport of hydrothermally derived Fe in suspended pa...
Biological Cell Communication: Quorum Sensing Versus Electromagnetic Signaling

This paper presents a quantitative comparison between electromagnetic-based and biochemical-based communication within community of biological cells. The concept of cell-to-cell communication via electromagnetic signaling has been recently postulated. It is shown that certain bacteria within their biofilms are equipped with antennas allowing them to transmit and receive signals to their neighboring cells and surrounding environment. Here, using communication channel modeling, we examine the maximum channel capacity and its variation as a function of distance based on both concepts and show EM signaling outperforms quorum sensing so far as data rate and communication distance are concerned. Fick's diffusion equation is combined with information theory fundamental equations for channel modeling of quorum sensing and Shannon channel capacity theorem is applied to EM-based communication channel for estimating the channel capacity. Results indicate that the EM-based communication provides much higher channel capacity compared to the quorum sensing.
Public Housing, Private Owners: Sustainable Development Lessons from the Fight to Shut the Poletti Power Plant

In the twentieth century, traditional notions of state sovereignty underwent a profound transformation. Emerging principles of human rights and sustainable development revolutionized thinking about the responsibilities states have within their own territories. Sovereignty in its Westphalian sense — based on principles of non-intervention — gave way to a more nuanced vision of the State holding duties toward individuals and their environment. Thick layers of international theory began shaping the State duty to progressively realize human rights, including the right to development and the right to a healthy environment. The Brundtland Commission report Our Common Future introduced the concept of sustainable development, which was supposed to be the apotheosis of this process — the means of integrating economic, environmental and social drivers of state action. Unfortunately, sustainable development’s ambitious integration project rapidly found itself under the sway of neo-liberal economic theory, which prioritized economic integration and gave short shrift to economic and social concerns. It is time to reclaim sustainable development from neo-liberalism’s efficiency-based economic determinism. Those seeking to give social and environmental concerns equal weight in decision-making must seize the initiative — truly sustainable development will be ‘claimed not granted.’Things will change only if ordinary people demand it. Past advocacy efforts can offer guidance for what a successful claiming of sustainable development might entail. There is much to learn from close examination of successful, socially-oriented environmental advocacy — from what successful advocates/activists did on the ground, and how they shaped their environmental claims. This principle remains true even for actors who do not themselves make human rights claims, and do not self-identify as human rights actors. This chapter examines one such situation, using the successful campaign to shut the Charles A. Poletti Power Plant to glean lessons about how to push decision-makers to value social and environmental concerns equally with economic ones.
Surgical Outcomes Following Fixation of Peri-Implant Distal Radius Fractures: A Case Series

Purpose The purpose of this study was to evaluate surgical outcomes following fixation of peri-implant distal radius fractures . Methods A retrospective chart review was conducted of peri-implant distal radius fractures treated surgically at a large academic practice over 18 years. Patients were included if they had previously undergone open reduction and internal fixation of a distal radius fracture; subsequently sustained a fracture at, or adjacent to, the existing hardware; and then undergone revision fixation with the removal of hardware. Fractures were categorized into 3 groups: type A (distal to the implant), type B (at the level of the implant), and type C (proximal to the implant). Outcomes, including range of motion, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire scores, and radiographic alignment, were recorded at the latest follow-up visit. Results Twelve peri-implant distal radius fractures that had undergone revision surgical fixation were identified. At the time of injury, the average patient age was 63 years. Ten occurred around a volar plate , 1 occurred around an intramedullary device, and 1 occurred around a dorsal plate. One fracture occurred proximal to previous hardware (type C), 9 fractures occurred at the level of previous hardware (type B), and 2 fractures occurred distal to previous hardware (type A). The median time from initial fixation to peri-implant fracture was 2.7 years. At a mean follow-up of 6 months after the removal of the hardware and revision fixation, radiographic alignment was within acceptable parameters for all injuries. At the final follow-up, the average wrist motion for flexion, extension, supination , and pronation were 66°, 66°, 83°, and 86°, respectively. The average DASH score was 6.7. Three patients experienced complications. Conclusions Although peri-implant fractures are infrequent complications following distal radius fracture internal fixation, outcomes of surgically treated peri-implant distal radius fractures are satisfactory with respect to radiographic alignment, range of motion, and function. Type of study/level of evidence Therapeutic IV.
Facilitators and barriers to colorectal cancer screening in an outpatient setting.

BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Still, 1 in 3 adults aged 50 years to 75 years have not been screened for CRC. Early detection and management of precancerous or malignant lesions has been shown to improve overall mortality. AIM To determine the most significant facilitators and barriers to CRC screening in an outpatient clinic in rural North Carolina. The results of this study can then be used for quality improvement to increase the rate of patients ages 50 to 75 who are up to date on CRC screening. METHODS This retrospective study examined 2428 patients aged 50 years to 75 years in an outpatient clinic. Patients were up to date on CRC screening if they had fecal occult blood test or fecal immunochemical test in the past one year, Cologuard in the past three years, flexible sigmoidoscopy/virtual colonoscopy in the past five years, or colonoscopy in the past ten years. Data on patient socioeconomic status, comorbid conditions, and other determinants of health compliance were included as covariates. RESULTS Age [odds ratio (OR) = 1.058; P = 0.017], no-show rate percent (OR= 0.962; P < 0.05), patient history of obstructive sleep apnea (OR = 1.875; P = 0.025), compliance with flu vaccinations (OR = 1.673; P < 0.05), compliance with screening mammograms (OR = 2.130; P < 0.05), and compliance with screening pap smears (OR = 2.708; P < 0.05) were important factors in determining whether a patient will receive CRC screening. Race, gender, insurance or employment status, use of blood thinners, family history of CRC, or other comorbid conditions including diabetes, hypertension, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and end-stage renal disease were not found to have a statistically significant effect on patient adherence to CRC screening. CONCLUSION Patient age, history of sleep apnea, and compliance with other health maintenance tests were significant facilitators to CRC screening, while no-show rate percent was a significant barrier in our patient population. This study will be of benefit to physicians in addressing and improving the CRC screening rates in our community.
Racial disparities in prevalence of homologous recombination deficiency in ovarian, uterine, and cervical cancer tumors

Objectives: Prior literature suggests that Black individuals exhibit a higher prevalence of aggressive molecular features in different cancers including endometrial cancers. Blacks may also have more defects in homologous recombination deficiency (HRD). It is currently unclear if the difference in somatic mutations in HRD genes between Blacks and Whites extends to other races and varies by cancer site. This study evaluated racial disparities in somatic mutations in HRD genes in ovarian, endometrial, and cervical cancer. Methods: Data were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Somatic mutations in genes associated with HRD including BRCA-1, BRCA-2, PTEN, CDK12, and RAD51C were acquired for the women with invasive ovarian, uterine, or cervical cancer. Race was categorized as White, Black, Asian, American-Indian, Pacific Islander, or Unknown. Chi-square was used to compare differences in the proportion of mutations between racial groups. Results: A total of 280 ovarian, 472 uterine, and 139 cervical cancer patients were included in our analysis and the distribution of somatic mutations in five HRD are displayed in Table 1 by topographic site. Within ovarian cancers, BRCA-1 was the most common mutation (8.57%), followed by CDK12 (7.50%) and BRCA-2 (7.14%). The rate of BRCA-1 mutations in Asian, White, and Black individuals was 10.0%, 7.59%, and 6.25%, respectively (P=0.21). In the endometrial cancer cases, 74.6% expressed a PTEN mutation, and 19.3% expressed a BRCA-2 mutation. PTEN mutations were less common in Black women (57.3%) compared to Whites (78.3%) or Asians (90.0%) (P=2.19 x10-18). Finally, 25.2% of all cervical cancer tumors expressed the PTEN mutation, with a similar distribution of PTEN mutations in Asians (28.6%), Blacks (26.7%), and Whites (23.4%) (p=0.78). When considering gynecologic malignancies as an integrated group, 21.6% of Asians had somatic mutations in BRCA-1 (21.6%) compared to 9.9% in Whites (9.94%) or 7.5% in Blacks (P=0.001). Asians also had the highest proportion of somatic mutations in BRCA-2 (24.3%) compared with 13.3% in Whites and 14.2% in Blacks (P=6.62x10-6). Download : Download high-res image (277KB) Download : Download full-size image Conclusions: The observed racial differences in the distribution of somatic mutations in HRD across gynecologic malignancies merits further investigation to tailor treatment selection to target these defects.
The Efficacy and Cognitive Effects of Acute Course Electroconvulsive Therapy Are Equal in Adolescents, Transitional Age Youth, and Young Adults.

Objective: Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is the most effective acute treatment for depression, but its use in younger patients is rare and heavily regulated in many U.S. states. It is unclear whe...
Streptococcal collagen-like protein 1 shields group A Streptococcus from antimicrobial molecules (836.8)

Group A Streptococcus causes a spectrum of diseases ranging from pharyngitis to life-threatening diseases such as streptococcal toxic shock-like syndrome. Invasive strains of GAS increase the expression of virulence factors that promote bacterial survival in the face of the human immune system. One such virulence factor is Scl-1, a surface collagen-like protein that has been shown in other less virulent strains to mediate attachment and resistance to serum factors. Previous work in our lab demonstrated that Scl-1 plays a role in bacterial survival against phagocytes, but the molecular mechanism for this enhanced survival has not been determined. In the current work, we determined that the presence of Scl-1 promotes resistance to phagocytic antimicrobial factors such as peroxide. We then used transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to examine whether Scl-1 can act as a physical barrier to antimicrobial molecules. Preliminary analysis of wild-type, scl-1 mutant, and plasmid-complemented strains suggests diff...
Embedded remote imaging system design

Designing an embedded image capture system for various industrial based remote applications sometimes can be a very challenging task due to embedded system architectural constraints and its relatively rich feature requirements. In this paper, we describe an embedded remote image system design, based on a widely available low cost 8-bit MCU. The uniqueness of this design includes: (1) video buffer design based on its relatively large 16 MByte memory, (2) a CMOS color camera sensor interface
Intron Definition Is Required for Excision of the Minute Virus of Mice Small Intron and Definition of the Upstream Exon

Alternative splicing of pre-mRNAs plays a critical role in maximizing the coding capacity of the small parvovirus genome. The small-intron region of minute virus of mice (MVM) pre-mRNAs undergoes an unusual pattern of overlapping alternative splicing--using two donors (D1 and D2) and two acceptors (A1 and A2) within a region of 120 nucleotides--that determines the steady-state ratios of the various viral mRNAs. In this report, we show that the determinants that govern excision of the small intron are complex and are also required for efficient definition of the upstream exon. For the MVM small intron in its natural context, the two donors appear to compete for the splicing machinery: the position of D1 favors its usage, while the primary sequence of D2 must be more like the consensus sequence than is D1 to be used efficiently. We have genetically defined the branch points that are used for generation of the major and minor spliced forms and show that recognition of components of the small-intron acceptors is likely to be the dominant determinant in alternative small-intron excision. We have also identified a G-rich intronic enhancer sequence within the small intron that is essential for splicing of the minor form (D2 to A2) but not the major form (D1 to A1) of MVM mRNAs and is required for efficient definition of the upstream NS2-specific exon. In its natural context, the small intron appears to be excised by a mechanism consistent with intron definition. When the MVM small intron is expanded, various parameters of its excision are altered, indicating that critical cis-acting signals are context dependent. Relative use of the donors and acceptors is altered, and the upstream NS2-specific exon is no longer efficiently defined. The fact that definition of the upstream NS2-specific exon can be achieved by the MVM small intron in its natural context, but not when it is expanded, suggests that the multiple determinants that govern definition and excision of the small intron are required, in concert, for upstream exon definition. Our data are consistent with a model in which alternative splicing of the MVM P4-generated pre-mRNAs is governed by a hybrid of intron- and exon-defining mechanisms.
Artificial Signal Detectors

The detection of an artificial, extraterrestrial, continuous wave (CW), or pulsed signal is a primary objective of the NASA Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI). In support of that goal, research in signal detection at Stanford University has focussed on the development of high performance computer architectures that achieve optimum sensitivity to pulsed and CW signals. Our architectures integrate parallel signal processing with matched filter computation in arithmetic processors and associative memories suitable for implementation as custom VLSI circuits. Using these devices as the computation engines in signal detectors makes matched filter pulse and CW detection both feasible and cost effective for a wideband ETI search of the microwave spectrum.
Database publishers' challenges for the future

Database publishers face a highly complex future because of competing technological develop­ ments and an increased diversity of user environments. The need to begin understanding the challenge by analyzing user information behavior is addressed and behaviors specific to aerospace scientists and engineers are analyzed. Visions for integrated database access at the individual desktop are reviewed and compared with a segmented reality. The challenges for database publishers are presented as digitizing the data into a standard format, improving and redefining quality, and confronting difficult business and policy issues. The need for cooperation is stressed.
Directed movement in the frog: a closer look at a central representation of spatial location

The neuronal circuitry underlying directed, ballistic movements in the frog includes a stage in which information about target location is represented in a form which is both experimentally distinguishable from spatial representations closer to the sensory and motor sides of the nervous system, and distinctive in its organization. Three dimensional location is represented in a distributed fashion, in terms of independent orthogonal components Each component appears to be population coded, apparently as the total activity in a particular neuronal structure. These findings are discussed in relation to related findings in other systems, with the objectives of identifying possible generalizations about spatial representations involved in sensorimotor processing and of defining directions for future research based on these.
FK506 Binding Protein Mutational Analysis: DEFINING THE SURFACE RESIDUE CONTRIBUTIONS TO STABILITY OF THE CALCINEURIN CO-COMPLEX

The 12- and 13-kDa FK506 binding proteins (FKBP12 and FKBP13) are cis-trans peptidyl-prolyl isomerases that bind the macrolides FK506 (Tacrolimus) and rapamycin (Sirolimus). The FKBP12•FK506 complex is immunosuppressive, acting as an inhibitor of the protein phosphatase calcineurin. We have examined the role of the key surface residues of FKBP12 and FKBP13 in calcineurin interactions by generating substitutions at these residues by site-directed mutagenesis. All mutants are active catalysts of the prolyl isomerase reaction, and bind FK506 or rapamycin with high affinity. Mutations at FKBP12 residues Asp-37, Arg-42, His-87, and Ile-90 decrease calcineurin affinity of the mutant FKBP12•FK506 complex by as much as 2600-fold in the case of I90K. Replacement of three FKBP13 surface residues (Gln-50, Ala-95, and Lys-98) with the corresponding homologous FKBP12 residues (Arg-42, His-87, and Ile-90) generates an FKBP13 variant that is equivalent to FKBP12 in its affinity for FK506, rapamycin, and calcineurin. These results confirm the role of two loop regions of FKBP12 (residues 40-44 and 84-91) as part of the effector face that interacts with calcineurin.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons from the high-temperature pyrolysis of pyrene

Abstract The formation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from solid fuels is a complicated phenomenon involving many physical and chemical processes. In order to gain a better understanding of the types of reactions taking place during high-temperature PAH production, we carried out a pure compound pyrolysis program between 1200 and 1500 K. In this work, which deals with pyrene pyrolysis in a laminar flow drop tube furnace, we identified four classes of condensed phase reaction products—bipyrenes, their condensation or cyclodehydrogenation products, pyrene fragmentation products and soot. Statistical and steric factors—accounted for qualitatively by the molecular topology of the reaction products—were used to rationalize the relative abundance of the different products in the first two categories. The absence of PAH species that might arise from a sequential acetylene addition pathway (like benzo[e]pyrene, benzo[ghi]perylene, coronene, etc.) leads us to conclude that in our system the most important molecular weight growth channel involves direct polymerization of aromatics. Fragmentation products like triphenylene, cyclopenta[hi]acephenanthrylenes, and cyclopenta[cd]pyrene were also detected; however, based on evidence adduced from parallel studies, we think that high amounts of CPP in this and other studies result from isomerization rather than acetylene addition.
Photonuclear and radiography applications of narrowband, multi-MeV all-optical Thomson x-ray source

The laser-driven Thomson scattering light source generates x-rays by the scattering of a high-energy electron beam off a high-intensity laser pulse. We have demonstrated that this source can generate collimated, narrowband x-ray beams in the energy range 0.1-12 MeV. In this work, we discuss recent results on the application of this source for radiography and photonuclear studies. The unique characteristics of the source make it possible to do this with the lowest possible dose and in a low-noise environment. We will also discuss recent experimental results that study nuclear reactions above the threshold for photodisintegration and photofission. The tunable nature of the source permits activation of specific targets while suppressing the signal from background materials.
Single-Wall Carbon Nanotube Polymer Composites: Investigating Their Percolative Behavior and Physical Performance

In this work, an approach to enhance the electroactive response of polymers is pursued. Single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWNT) nanoinclusions are dispersed in a piezoelectric polyimide. A qualitative assessment of dispersion is done using optical microscopy and high resolution scanning electron microscopy. Key requirements for the resulting nanocomposites are flexibility, and thermal and chemical stability. Electrical and dielectric properties of the SWNT-reinforced polyimide composites are investigated as a function of SWNT concentration. AC and DC conductivities are measured. The experimental dielectric constant was found to obey a percolation-like power law with a relatively low percolation threshold. It is found that addition of the SWNT in the polyimide composites facilitates poling and results in an increase of the piezoelectric properties of the composites. Furthermore, at higher SWNT concentration, a bending strain is observed at relatively low electric fields, indicating the potential of using these composites actuators. Current investigations illustrate the effects of SWNTs on dielectric, piezoelectric and electroactive properties. Further work is ongoing to assess the effect SWNTs on the mechanical and thermal properties of the polyimide matrix.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
The Mayo-Portland Participation Index: A brief and psychometrically sound measure of brain injury outcome.

Abstract Malec JF. The Mayo-Portland Participation Index: a brief and psychometrically sound measure of brain injury outcome. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2004;85:1989–96. Objective To evaluate the internal consistency, interrater agreement, concurrent validity, and floor and ceiling effects of the 8-item Participation Index (M2PI) of the Mayo-Portland Adaptability Inventory (MPAI). Design M2PI data derived from MPAIs completed independently by the people with acquired brain injury undergoing evaluation, their significant others, and rehabilitation staff were submitted to Rasch Facets analysis to determine the internal consistency of each independent rater group and of composite measures that combined rater groups. Correlations with the full-scale MPAI were examined to assess concurrent validity, as was interrater agreement. Setting Outpatient rehabilitation in academic physical medicine and rehabilitation department. Participants People with acquired brain injury (N=134) consecutively seen for evaluation, significant others, and evaluating staff. Interventions Not applicable. Main outcome measures The MPAI and M2PI. Results The M2PI showed satisfactory internal consistency, concurrent validity, interrater agreement, and minimal floor and ceiling effects, although evidence of rater bias was also apparent. Composite indices showed more desirable psychometric properties than ratings by individual rater groups. Conclusions The M2PI, particularly in composite indices and with attention to rater biases, provides an outcome measure with satisfactory psychometric qualities and the potential to represent the varying perspectives of people with acquired brain injury, significant others, and rehabilitation staff.
Membranes of animal cells. I. Methods of isolation of the surface membrane

Procedures have been devised for the isolation of the surface membranes of mouse fibroblasts (L cell) and a variety of other cells. The surface membranes are stabilized by various reagents in a hypotonic solution and are then removed intact or as large fragments with a Dounce homogenizer. The membranes are purified by differential centrifugation on solutions of sucrose or glycerol or on a column of fine glass beads. A trilaminar pattern can be seen in thin sections of the membrane in the electron microscope. Sufficient material can be conveniently obtained for chemical analyses.
Toxicity of ammonia to early life stages of the smallmouth bass at four pH values

Early life stages of smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieui Lacepede) were exposed to ammonia concentrations at four different pH values (from 6.5 to 8.7). Acute lethal tests were conducted with juveniles, and partial chronic tests were initiated at the late embryo stage and extended through 32 d of exposure. The 96-h LC50 ammonia concentrations at pH 6.53, 7.16, 7.74 and 8.71 were 371, 117, 39.5 and 7.43 mg/L total ammonia-N (NH3-N) and 0.694, 1.00, 1.20 and 1.78 mg/L un-ionized NH3, respectively. The acute toxicity of ammonia in terms of NH3-N was directly related to test pH, and in terms of NH3 was inversely related to pH. Embryo through preswim-up larvae were the most resistant early life stages studied during chronic exposures. Survival of embryos to larvae 7 d post hatch was unaffected by ammonia concentrations ranging from 0.236 to 0.865 mg/L NH3 at pH values of 6.60 to 8.68. Adverse effects on early developmental stages demonstrated that survival to 14 d and growth to 32 d were among the most sensitive indicators of ammonia toxicity. The estimated 32-d no-observed-effect concentrations, defined as the geometric means of the maximum no-effect and minimum effect concentrations determined from statistically significant decreases in growth (wet weight), were calculated to be 17.4, 14.4, 14.6 and 2.40 mg/L total NH3-N and 0.0437, 0.148, 0.599 and 0.612 mg/L un-ionized NH3 at pH values of 6.60, 7.25, 7.83 and 8.68, respectively. The acute to chronic ratios, as calculated from NH3 concentrations and acute results adjusted to the above pH values for chronic tests, were 16.7, 7.03, 2.07 and 2.89, respectively.
Absorption Lines in Quasi-stellar Objects

Critique of Gamow conclusion that lack of correlation between apparent brightness and red shift of quasars is due to galactic absorption
1697 ROLE OF ENDOGENOUS OPIATES IN CO2 SENSITIVITY IN THE NEWBORN PRIMATE

Recent reports indicate that naloxone will shorten the duration of primary apnea following asphyxia (Ped.Res. 14:357, 1980) and prevent the secondary depression of ventilation during hypoxia in the newborn rabbit (Ped.Res.14:643, 1980). Previous authors have shown the CO2 sensitivity in the newborn increases with postnatal maturation (J.A.P. 41:41, 1976; J.A.P. 48:347, 1980). To determine whether endorphins depress CO2 sensitivity in the immediate newborn period, five newborn M. nemestrina were studied on day 2-3 and again on day 19-21. VE/Kg and PO.2 were measured in duplicate trials in tracheotomized animals during steady state hyperoxia (FiO2=1.0), then again at 5-7 minutes of hyperoxic hypercapnia (FiO2=0.96, FiCO2=0.04). Naltrexone was given IV at a dose of 0.1 mg/kg and the trials were repeated. Values are mean ± S.E.M. Statistical analysis by paried t test. These results suggest that endogenous opiates do not influence the hyperoxic hypercapnic response in the newborn subhuman primate and confirm recent reports in adult humans (Am.Rev.Resp. Dis.121:1045,1980).
A photoregulated ligand for the nuclear import receptor karyopherin α

Abstract The ability to orchestrate the transport of proteins between nucleus and cytoplasm provides cells with a powerful regulatory mechanism. Selective translocation between these compartments is often used to propagate cellular signals, and it is an intimate part of the processes that control cell division, viral replication, and other cellular events. Therefore, precise experimental control over protein localization, through the agency of light, would provide a powerful tool for the study and manipulation of these events. To this end, a prototype photoregulated nuclear localization signal (NLS) was derived from a native NLS. A library of 30 mutants of the bipartite NLS from Xenopus laevis nucleoplasmin containing a novel, photoisomerizable amino acid was prepared by parallel, solid-phase synthesis and screened in vitro for binding to the nuclear import receptor karyopherin α, which mediates the nuclear import of cellular proteins. A single peptide was identified in which the cis and trans photoisomers bind the receptor differentially. The strategy used to obtain this peptide is systematic and empirical; therefore, it is potentially applicable to any peptide-receptor system.
Collapsin response mediator protein-2: an emerging pathologic feature and therapeutic target for neurodisease indications.

Collapsin response mediator protein-2 (DPYSL2 or CRMP2) is a multifunctional adaptor protein within the central nervous system. In the developing brain or cell cultures, CRMP2 performs structural and regulatory functions related to cytoskeletal dynamics, vesicle trafficking and synaptic physiology whereas CRMP2 functions in adult brain are still being elucidated. CRMP2 has been associated with several neuropathologic or psychiatric conditions including Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and schizophrenia, either at the level of genetic polymorphisms; protein expression; post-translational modifications; or protein/protein interactions. In AD, CRMP2 is phosphorylated by glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK3β) and cyclin dependent protein kinase-5 (CDK5), the same kinases that act on tau protein in generating neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs). Phosphorylated CRMP2 collects in NFTs in association with the synaptic structure-regulating SRA1/WAVE1 (specifically Rac1-associated protein-1/WASP family verprolin-homologous protein-1) complex. This phenomenon could plausibly contribute to deficits in neural and synaptic structure that have been well documented in AD. This review discusses the essential biology of CRMP2 in the context of nascent data implicating CRMP2 perturbations as either a correlate of, or plausible contributor to, diverse neuropathologies. A discussion is made of recent findings that the atypical antidepressant tianeptine increases CRMP2 expression, whereas other, neuroactive small molecules including the epilepsy drug lacosamide and the natural brain metabolite lanthionine ketimine appear to bind CRMP2 directly with concomitant affects on neural structure. These findings constitute proofs-of-concept that pharmacological manipulation of CRMP2 is possible and hence, may offer new opportunities for therapy development against certain neurological diseases.
A 30-year case study and 15 principles: Implications of an artificial intelligence methodology for functional modeling

Research on design and analysis of complex systems has led to many functional representations with several meanings of function. This work on conceptual design uses a family of representations called structure–behavior–function (SBF) models. The SBF family ranges from behavior–function models of abstract design patterns to drawing–shape–SBF models that couple SBF models with visuospatial knowledge of technological systems. Development of SBF modeling is an instance of cognitively oriented artificial intelligence research that seeks to understand human cognition and build intelligent agents for addressing complex tasks such as design. This paper first traces the development of SBF modeling as our perspective on design evolved from that of problem solving to that of memory and learning. Next, the development of SBF modeling as a case study is used to abstract some of the core principles of an artificial intelligence methodology for functional modeling. Finally, some implications of the artificial intelligence methodology for different meanings of function are examined.
Popular Communication After Globalization

The study of popular communication is carried out in many disciplines and many sites. It is often haunted by anxieties over high culture versus low culture and authenticity versus commercialization. Rejecting those binaries in favor of the dominance of the latter term in each, this article initially defines popular communication as objects widely circulated by mass media, texts to which people are widely exposed. Such texts are themselves commodities, and the meanings the texts facilitate are key. Scholars of popular communication usually espouse a leftist political agenda. They focus on signs that reveal processes in social or psychological experience, although some studies focus more on forms of discourse. The article proposes that studies in popular communication may be distinguished by whether they focus on rhetor, text, or audience. It concludes by urging a stance of critical populism, more popular involvement by scholars, and a greater understanding of erotics, or desire, in our work.
African American Students in Private, Independent Schools: Parents and School Influences on Racial Identity Development

Although much research has focused on the public school experiences of African American students, few studies exist that explore their race-related experiences within an independent, private school context. Studies have suggested that, while private, independent schools may elevate the quality of African American students’ education, many of these students experience social isolation from their peers. Using a qualitative methodology, the current study explores the experiences of African American students attending a private, independent school. Moreover, this investigation explores how schools as well as parental contexts contribute to racial identity development. Results indicated the importance of parents, schools and other significant institutions as racial socialization agents as well as their influence on specific identity-related processes. Educational implications for findings are also discussed.
Subzero temperature adaptations in arthropods from the summit of Mauna Kea, Hawaii

A preliminary study of subzero temperature adaptations was made of arthropods from the summit (4,200 m) of Mauna Kea, Hawaii. This barren, alpine stone desert aeolian habitat commonly experiences snow and nightly subzero temperatures in spite of its subtropical location. In mid-December, collections were made of a wolf spider (Lycosa sp.). the lygaeid bug (Nysius wekiuicola), and a noctuid caterpillar (Agrotis sp.). The Agrotis caterpillars were freeze tolerant. They had quite high supercooling points (SCP = −4.8°C) and survived a 24 hr frozen exposure at −6.2°C. The site of nucleation is apparently not the hemolymph, as the hemolymph SCP was −15.1°C. The spiders and wekiu bugs were not freeze tolerant. The SCPs of the spiders (X = −5.8°C) were not particularly low, but these highly mobile arthropods may be able to seek thermally buffered microhabitats when the need arises. The wekiu bugs showed greater supercooling abilities, with some individuals supercooling to −18°C, although the SCPs were quite variable. The subzero temperature adaptations of the arthropods from such an isolated subtropical site are remarkable adaptive capabilities.
Determinants of the incidence of U.S. Mortgage Loan Modifications

Abstract This paper combines data on the performance of mortgage loans with detailed borrower, neighborhood, and property characteristics to examine the factors that determine the outcomes of seriously delinquent loans. We employ multinomial logit models in a hazard framework to explain how loan, borrower, property, servicer and neighborhood characteristics affect which of the following four outcomes results from a seriously delinquent loan: (1) the borrower cures the delinquency; (2) the borrower and lender agree to modify the loan; (3) the borrower suffers a liquidation (short sale, deed in lieu, foreclosure auction sale or REO); or (4) the loan remains delinquent. In particular, we focus on mortgage modification. We find that the outcomes of delinquent loans are significantly related to: current LTV, FICO scores, especially risky loan characteristics, the servicer of the loan, neighborhood housing price appreciation, and whether the borrower received foreclosure counseling.
Strongly bound nucleotide derivatives in lactate dehydrogenase from the sixgill shark.

Abstract Chemical analyses on lactate dehydrogenases from diverse sources reveal the presence of substoichiometric quantities of strongly bound phosphorus, pentose, and nicotinamide. The quantities of these apparent coenzyme residuals vary among species, with a relatively high incidence in the flank muscle lactate dehydrogenase of the sixgill shark. The pentose is completely released by drastic procedures such as acid precipitation or heat denaturation of the enzyme. However, it cannot be extracted by charcoal treatment of the enzyme or exchanged with reduced 3-acetylpyridine-adenine dinucleotide. The tenacity of binding suggests that the attachment of the fragments to the enzyme is covalent and that they are somehow involved in the stabilization of the enzyme.
The role of dietary history in the effects of novelty on taste aversions

The novelty of taste stimuli is an important determinant of rats’ taste preferences and taste aversions, but the effects of novelty may be overestimated in studies of laboratory-reared rats with very limited taste experience. The tendency to associate illness with novel rather than familiar flavors was compared in rats raised on standard laboratory diets and rats raised on varied diets including a number of distinctively flavored foods and liquids. The results suggest that the large effects of novelty are not simply artifacts produced by laboratory rats’ limited taste experience, because both groups showed a strong tendency to associate illness with a novel taste rather than a familiar taste.