cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The RecA Protein

This chapter focuses on the bacterial RecA proteins, which have at least three major roles. The first function involves a direct participation in the central steps of recombination, via the DNA strand exchange activity. Second, RecA protein has a role in regulation. As a regulatory function, the RecA protein facilitates the autocatalytic cleavage of the LexA repressor and certain other proteins to induce the SOS response to DNA damage. Finally, the RecA protein participates in yet another type of repair process. Late in the SOS response, especially when DNA damage levels are particularly high and nonmutagenic DNA repair is insufficient to get replication restarted, a need arises to restart replication via lesion bypass. The known biochemical activities of the RecA protein parallel these cellular roles. These include binding to DNA, ATP hydrolysis, filament formation, DNA strand exchange, and the coprotease activity. The nucleation of RecA protein on single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) is slowed considerably if the DNA is bound by the Escherichia coli single-strand DNA-binding protein SSB. The capacity to promote uniquely unidirectional DNA strand exchange reactions, to bypass significant structural barriers, and to promote four-strand exchange reactions is so far unique to the bacterial RecA proteins, and all of these processes require ATP hydrolysis.
Water and Sodium Regulation in Health and Disease

The maintenance of normal circulatory volume is the single most important characteristic of body fluid homeostasis. The constituents of body fluids in turn are regulated within narrow limits. The kidney plays a critical role in these regulatory processes. Keywords: fluid compartments; circulation; salt and water; antidiuretic hormone; aldosterone
Consumption Value Theory and the Marketing of Public Health: An Effective Formative Research Tool

Contemporary public health requires the support and participation of its constituency. This study assesses the capacity of consumption value theory to identify the basis of this support. A telephone survey design used simple random sampling of adult residents of Cherokee County, Oklahoma. Factor analysis and stepwise discriminant analysis was used to identify and classify personal and societal level support variables. Most residents base societal level support on epistemic values. Direct services clientele base their support on positive emotional values derived from personal contact and attractive programs. Residents are curious about public health and want to know more about the health department. Where marketing the effectiveness of public health programs would yield relatively little support, marketing health promotion activities may attract public opposition. This formative research tool suggests a marketing strategy for public health practitioners.
Effects of modifying individual amino or carboxyl groups on the affinity of calmodulin for calcineurin.

Abstract The effects of modifying individual lysyl, aspartyl, or glutamyl residues in calmodulin on its ability to bind to the neural phosphatase calcineurin have been investigated using a competitive binding method termed "label selection." Samples of calmodulin were radiochemically labeled at a low level (0.03-0.6 group/molecule) by acetylation of amino groups or coupling carboxyl groups with ethanolamine to produce preparations containing predominantly single-site modified and unmodified molecules. These preparations were incubated in a 5-10-fold molar excess with bovine calcineurin under conditions appropriate for complex formation. The bound population was isolated, and the level of modification of each reactive residue was compared with the level in the corresponding group in the intial unselected preparation to determine if molecules modified at specific sites had been selected for or against during the competition for complex formation. Significant selection was observed against molecules modified at Lys21, Asp64, Glu67, Lys75, Glu84, Glu114, Asp118, or Lys148, whereas modification of Glu83 increased binding. The modification of other groups, including components of the four Ca2+-binding sites, had no effect on the interaction. Glu67, a Ca2+-liganding residue in Ca2+-binding site II that may regulate the orientation of this site in relation to the central helix, had the strongest influence on complex formation. Most of the residues identified form a nearly linear array in the three-dimensional structure of calmodulin and indicate the location of an extended surface for interaction with calcineurin and other enzymes.
Studies on the electron transfer system: LXVII. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of the mitochondrial electron transfer complexes

Abstract A new method is described for the fractionation of the hydrophobic proteins of the mitochondrial electron transfer chain. The four constituent complexes of the chain, complex I (DPNH-coenzyme Q reductase), Complex II (succinic-coenzyme Q reductase), Complex III (reduced coenzyme Q-cytochrome c reductase), and Complex IV (cytochrome c ; O 2 oxidoreductase E.C.1.9.3.1) and also succinic dehydrogenase (succinic; (acceptor) oxidoreductase, E.C. 1.3.99.1), after extraction with acetone, were completely soluble in a solvent system consisting of phenol-acetic acid-water (2:1:1, w/v/v). Zone electrophoresis of the solubilized mitochondrial complexes and of succinic dehydrogenase on polyacrylamide gel (7.5% in acrylamide, 35% in acetic acid and 5 M in urea) revealed, in every case, many protein bands with a specific and reproducible pattern for each enzyme complex. These bands include not only the proteins with known prosthetic groups but also other uncharacterized proteins. Bands were identified corresponding to (1) the flavoprotein of Complex II, (2) the flavine protein of the soluble succinic dehydrogenase, and (3) the cytochrome c 1 of Complex III. Bands were tentatively identified corresponding to the nonheme iron protein, to cytochrome b of Complex III, and to cytochrome a of Complex IV. The results support the concept that the electron transfer chain is composed of a series of proteins of small molecular weight.
Visual topography in primate V2: multiple representation across functional stripes

The second visual cortical area (V2) of the primate is composed of repeating thin, pale, and thick cytochrome oxidase stripes containing primarily color-selective, broad-band oriented, and disparity-selective cells, respectively. We have now examined topography in V2 with respect to these functional subdivisions. Our data suggest that there are multiple, interleaved visual maps in V2, one for each of the color, orientation, and disparity domains. The same region of visual space is re-represented by each stripe within a stripe cycle, resulting in discontinuities or “jumps back” in representation at stripe borders. Adjacent stripe cycles represent adjacent regions of space such that the visual map is continuous from one stripe to the next like stripe. Receptive field size and scatter are significantly larger for thin stripes than for thick stripes. Unexpectedly, our data suggest two types of pale stripes within each stripe cycle, one with scatter similar to thin stripes and another to thick stripes. Some evidence also suggests the presence of multiple maps within individual stripes in V2. Consistent with functional clustering within single stripes (Ts9o et al., 1990b), we have recorded re-representations and topographic discontinuities coincident with functional borders within single stripes. These results suggest that multiple and interleaved mapping may be a common organizational strategy for representing multiple functional domains within a single cortical area.
Significance of a prenatally diagnosed del(10)(q23)

Structural chromosome mosaicism is rare. We report a case of prenatal mosaicism for a deletion of chromosome 10(q23). To our knowledge, there are only three reports of prenatally diagnosed cases of del(10)(q23). Two of these cases were due to an inherited fragile site. In the present case amniocentesis revealed 46,XY,del(10)(q23)[9]/46,XY[45]. Follow-up chromosome analysis of peripheral blood and placental tissue from a phenotypically normal liveborn male revealed the del(10)(q23) in only 3/100 blood cells grown in low-folate medium. It appears that prenatally diagnosed deleted (10q) mosaicism represents culture artifact and is not clinically significant.
Frequency and stability control using decentralized intelligent loads: Benefits and pitfalls

Recent research has demonstrated that many electric loads could cost-effectively become intelligent, allowing for the potential of the loads to more actively participate in system operation and control. This paper investigates benefits and potential pitfalls of decentralized intelligent load control for frequency regulation and improved stability control. Issues addressed in this paper include: the control strategy, the effect of a highly distributed nature of the loads within a distribution system, the effect of a discretized control action, and the effect of time-delay on the control action. Issues are investigated using a 16-machine example power system that has similar characteristics of the western North American power system.
Thermodynamic parameters of fluoride complexes of group IIIA ions

Abstract The stability constants and heats of formation of the monofluoride complexes of Al(III), Ga(III) and In(III) in an ionic medium of 1·0M(NaClO 4 ) have been measured by potentiometry and calorimetry. The enthalpy values are endothermic and the rather high stability constants are the result of large, positive entropies. The values of the entropy of hydration of the M F 2+ species suggest that AlF 2+ and GaF 2+ may be outer sphere complexes while InF 2+ has an inner sphere structure.
Keynote presentation: Programming the turing machine

Turing provided the basis for modern computer science. However there is a huge gap between a Turing machine and the kinds of applications we use today. This gap is bridged by software, and designing and implementing large programs is a difficult task. The main way we have of keeping the complexity of software under control is to make use of abstraction and modularity. This talk will discuss how abstraction and modularity are used in the design of large programs, and how these concepts are supported in modern programming languages. It will also discuss what support is needed going forward,
Capsule commentary on Gerber et al., hormone therapy use in women veterans accessing veterans health administration care: a national cross-sectional study.

Over the past 20 years, the Women Veterans Health Care group has rolled out numerous initiatives designed to improve access and quality of care for the rapidly growing population of women veterans,1 guided by the vision that if “you served, you deserve the best care anywhere.” Since 2008, the Veterans Administration (VA) “mini-residency” program has trained over 1,850 primary care providers in women’s health care, with the goal of offering comprehensive primary care for women at all VA sites. VA rates of screening for cervical and breast cancer are now higher than those reported in most private sector settings,2 as are gender-neutral measures of quality care such as screening for colorectal cancer and management of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes.2 However, our nation’s solemn obligation “to care for [all those] who shall have borne the battle” remains a challenge and a focus of coast-to-coast attention. In this paper by Gerber et al., women veterans are found to be receiving post-menopausal hormone therapy at twice the rate of civilian populations.3 This is a potentially concerning finding, given that such therapy increases women’s risk of both cardiovascular disease and breast cancer.4 However, menopausal symptoms can be extremely distressing to women; when these symptoms are unresponsive to other therapies, many well-informed women and their physicians feel that the risks of hormone therapy are worth the relief it offers. Thus, before we can conclude that efforts are needed to reduce women veteran’s use of post-menopausal hormone therapy, we need to know whether (and if so, why) women veterans are experiencing more distressing menopausal symptoms. For example, as noted by Gerber et al., the prevalence of obesity, hysterectomy, history of trauma, and persistent anxiety (each of which exacerbate the vasomotor symptoms of menopause) are all higher among women veterans than other women. As such, although confirming that prescriptions are clinically indicated is a priority in ensuring that our veterans receive the high-quality care they deserve, disciplined identification of the root causes of symptoms and a commitment to informed decision-making regarding the full range of available treatments are equally necessary.
Grand missions of agricultural innovation

Abstract This paper discusses three related examples of mission-oriented agricultural institutional innovations associated with substantial crop yield increases in the 20th century. It begins with the implementation of the United States Land-Grant System and then discusses in turn the planning and implementation of the two grand missions that led successively to the yield increases in wheat and rice that heralded the onset of the “Green Revolution.” It notes the remarkable role of the Rockefeller Foundation in identifying these two missions, and selecting personnel developed within the land-grant system to execute them with remarkable effectiveness.
Ether derivatives for the determination of phenols and phenol-generating pesticides by electron capture gas chromatography

Abstract The formation of ether derivatives for the gas chromatographic determination of phenols and phenol-generating pesticides provides a simple and sensitive analytical method. The properties of a series of 2,6-dinitro-4-trifluoromethylphenyl ethers were compared with those of previously reported pentafluorobenzyl and 2,4-dinitrophenyl derivatives of phenols; the three types were found to be similar in their ease of preparation, stability, and electron capture response, and formed a complimentary series for trace analysis and identification. Micro-derivatization may be applied to phenols, pesticides which generate phenols on hydrolysis, or both; for illustration, recovery of p.p.b. * levels of carbaryl insecticide and the corresponding 1-naphthol from water via the DNT derivative exceeded eighty percent.
Minimum requirements for new dental materials.

Summary A brief review of the development of standards for testing and certification of dental materials is presented. The tests employed in the standards are not correlated for the clinical use of the materials, nor to the reasons for failures of the materials. They are, therefore, of limited value for the selection of materials to be used in practice but they are important for quality control of the manufacture of the materials. Previous certification programmes are being discontinued. The responsibility for selecting safe and efficient materials is transferred to the clinicians whereas making safe and efficient materials still is the responsibility of the manufacturers.
Multipotent Progenitor Cells Isolated From Adult Human Pancreatic Tissue

The supply of islet cells is a limiting factor for the widespread application of islet transplantation of type-1 diabetes. Islets constitute 1% to 2% of pancreatic tissue, leaving approximately 98% as discard after islet isolation and purification. In this report we present our data on the isolation of multipotent progenitor cells from discarded adult human pancreatic tissue. The collected cells from discarded nonislet fractions, after enzymatic digestion and gradient purification of islets, were dissociated for suspension culture in a serum-free medium. The cell clusters grown to a size of 100 to 150 mum contained cells staining for stage-specific embryonic antigens, but not insulin or C-peptide. To direct cell differentiation toward islets, clusters were recultured in a pancreatic differentiation medium. Insulin and C-peptide-positive cells by immunocytochemistry appeared within a week, reaching over 10% of the cell population. Glucagon and somatostatin-positive cells were also detected. The cell clusters were found to secrete insulin in response to glucose stimulation. Cells from the same clusters also had the capacity for differentiation into neural cells, as documented by staining for neural and glial cell markers when cultured as monolayers in media containing neurotrophic factors. These data suggest that multipotent pancreatic progenitor cells exist within the human pancreatic tissue that is typically discarded during islet isolation procedures. These adult progenitor cells can be successfully differentiated into insulin-producing cells, and thus they have the potential for treatment of type-1 diabetes mellitus.
Microdissection or microspot CO2 laser for limited vocal fold benign lesions: a prospective randomized trial.

CO2 lasers have become an important technological advance and an integral tool for the laryngeal surgeon since the 1960s. Surgeons have used lasers for a variety of benign and malignant lesions in the larynx with good success. With better understanding of the microarchitecture of the vocal folds and the recognition of heat distribution into surrounding tissues that occurs with the use of standard CO2 lasers, questions and concerns have been raised regarding the use of the CO2 laser for benign lesions of the vocal folds. With the advent of the microspot CO2 laser with a spot size of less than 250 μm, the potential heat distribution to the deeper layers of the lamina propria has been reduced. The microspot CO2 laser has been suggested to be an appropriate tool for the excision of superficial benign lesions of the vocal fold and may be considered as an appropriate treatment alternative to microdissection. Only a limited number of studies have compared the efficacy of microdissection versus microspot CO2 laser surgery in the larynx, and no prospective, randomized trials have been performed. Objective This study was designed to compare microspot CO2 laser excision and microdissection for superficial benign lesions confined to the free margin of the vocal fold. Study Design: A randomized, prospective trial comparing microspot CO2 laser excision and microdissection in the removal of nodules, polyps, and mucous retention cysts of the vocal fold. Methods Acoustic and aerodynamic measures and videostroboscopic and perceptual audio recordings evaluated by a panel of blinded viewers and listeners were studied preoperatively and 2 to 3 weeks and 5 to 12 weeks postoperatively. Surgical and recovery times were compared between the two groups. Results Thirty-seven patients met selection criteria and were enrolled, 21 in the microdissection group and 16 in the laser excision group. Significant improvements in videostroboscopic parameters were found over time in both groups. Significant improvements were noted for perceptual analysis over time for the laser excision group with nonsignificant improvements over time for the microdissection group. There was no difference in any measure between laser excision and microdissection at the two postoperative visits. There was no difference in surgical or recovery time between laser excision and microdissection. Acoustic and aerodynamic parameters were noncontributory in evaluating outcomes of treatment, since most values were normal before surgery. Conclusion No differences in clinical outcomes are identified when comparing microdissection with laser excision of nodules, polyps, and mucous retention cysts of the vocal folds.
Mouse killing and carrying by Maudsley and Long-Evans strain rats

The incidence of mouse killing and mouse carrying in three strains of rats was investigated. Both sexes of the Maudsley reactive, Maudsley nonreactive, and Long-Evans rats served as subjects. The highest incidence of mouse killing was observed among male reactives (44%), an intermediate incidence in Long-Evans males (24%), and a low incidence in the Maudsley nonreactive males (8%). Female reactives, female Long-Evans, and female nonreactives showed similar low incidences of killing (14%, 13%, and 11%, respectively). Male and female nonreactives and female reactives showed the highest percentages of mouse carrying (78%, 87%, and 81%, respectively) with male reactives at an intermediate percentage (48%) and Long-Evans males and females at the lowest percentage (28% and 26%). The possible relationship between selective breeding for open-field reactivity and the incidence of mouse killing is discussed.
Radio-frequency arbitrary waveform generation with a programmable SiN spectral shaper

We demonstrate programmable electrical waveform generation around 10 GHz frequency using a SiN microring spectral shaper at both polarizations. Shaping is controlled by ring resonances that may be thermally tuned using micro-heaters in ∼1 ms.
A model to calibrate and predict forces in machining with honed cutting tools or inserts

This paper describes a mechanistic approach towards modeling the effects on machining forces of the edge hone commonly ground on machining tools and tool inserts. This approach proposes that the ratio of the shearing to ploughing forces would remain identical for tools with different honed radii, machining under identical conditions of chip thickness to edge hone radius ratios and cutting velocity. This concept allows a very simple and new calibration technique toward separating out the effects of tool and machining parameters that influence the force coefficients in machining without a need for any additional parameters. The model has been presently developed for orthogonal cutting and its validation using a tube turning process on gray cast iron with straight edged inserts has shown very promising results. Continued research is being performed to evaluate the applicability of the model for more complex machining operations.
Progressive Failure Analysis of Laminated Composite Femoral Prostheses for Total Hip Arthroplasty

In this research program, a numerical method was developed to predict the progressive failure of a thick laminated composite femoral component for total hip arthroplasty. A 3-D global/local technique was used to capture the overall structural response of this system while also enabling the 3-D ply level stress state to be determined efficiently and accurately. Different failure criteria and different material degradation models were incorporated as individual subroutines in the numerical method, giving it the flexibility to model a wide range of materials and structures. Numerical modeling was also conducted to design experimental test methods for component fatigue testing that closely simulate in vivo loading conditions. Parametric studies were then conducted with the numerical model of the experimental system and the results were compared to the actual experimentally determined damage behavior of fabricated laminated composite femoral component to assess which parameter set most accurately predicted the actual damage development behavior. The best fitting parameter set was then applied to the failure problem of the composite hip prosthesis implanted in an anatomically modeled femur to predict in vivo performance. This work provides a ply level understanding of the damage behavior of laminated composite femoral components and a numerical tool which can serve as a guide for the design of fatigue resistant implants made from composite material for this and other implant applications.
Optimal Structure of the Ginning Industry in the Southern High Plains of Texas

This study addresses the optimal structure of the cotton ginning industry in the Southern High Plains of Texas, assuming a monopolistically competitive market structure. Employing survey, regression, simulation, and mathematical programming techniques, the study determines the optimal structure of the ginning industry. Results indicate that a restructuring of the ginning industry in the Southern High Plains of Texas could save the industry about $15 million per season. T he ginning industry in a sixteen-county region of the Southern High Plains of Texas (SHPT) has gone through changes in both structure and the level of sophistication of ginning machinery. The number of active gins in Texas has decreased from 783 in 1980 to 406 in 1994. This reduction has occurred in conjunction with an increase in average gin size (Texas Cotton Ginners' Association). Some of this reduction in the number of gins has been due to mergers and the creation of cooperatives among gins. However, many of the smaller gins have either become inactive or have shut down. These structural changes may also have been the result of technological changes that have taken place in the cotton ginning industry during the last decade. Rapid technological changes in cotton harvesting, seed cotton storage and handling, gin feeding, and bale packaging and handling systems have virtually eliminated many of the menial tasks that were traditional to farming and ginning, while reducing cost and increasing the efficiency of production (Texas Almanac). These technological advancements have led to intense competition among gins for seed cotton, which has forced gin managers to reduce costs through the attainment of higher gin volumes.
A field-referenced surface electrode for biosignal detection

Biopotential measurements for clinical diagnostics and brain-machine interface are usually carried out by placing multiple electrodes to the target areas. Due to the non-invasiveness, ease of deployment, and relatively simpler manufacturing, surface electrodes have found immense number of applications. This work presents a field-referenced surface electrode for the measurement of surface potentials. Each electrode can be addressed by applying a constant reference signal on the field plate and the corresponding induced potential is measured from the sensing plate. The reference-biased field plate shields the sensing plate from tangential field lines and interference from the neighboring electrodes. Due to the presence of the reference signal, the electric field originating from a biological source crowds towards the referenced-field plate and impacts the induced potential in the sensing plate. Simulation results indicate the better selectivity performance of the proposed structure.
Biodegradation of 3,4,4′-trichlorocarbanilide, TCC®, in sewage and activated sludge

Abstract As part of the studies to elucidate the environmental consequences from bacteriostat usage the extent of biodegradation of 3,4,4′-trichlorocarbanilide, TCC ® , in sewage systems was examined. TCC samples uniformly labeled in either the p-chloroaniline ring ( 14 C PCA TCC) or the dichloroaniline ring ( 14 C DCA-TCC) were monitored in activated sludge systems by measurements of 14 CO 2 evolution. As was expected, the p-chloroaniline (PCA) ring of TCC was more rapidly degraded than the dichloroaniline (DCA) ring. In a continuous flow activated sludge system (10 h retention time, 200 μg1 −1 TCC) acclimation to primary biodegradation was readily gained. 14 CO 2 evolution from 14 C PCA TCC was consistent with complete metabolism of the PCA ring while that from 14 C-PCA-TCC indicated about 50% biodegradation of the DCA ring. Analysis of effluents from continuous flow activated sludge units established that TCC undergoes primary biodegradation to its chloroaniline components which are in turn biodegraded.
Characterization of a High Chlorophyll Plume In the Northeastern Gulf of Mexico

In the northern Gulf of Mexico (NGMx), plumes of high chlorophyll shelf waters have been observed to extend across the shelf-break to the central basin. Prior research has shown an association between this cross-shelf flow of water and materials and the adjacent rotation of cyclonic and anticyclonic eddies. Satellite remote sensing data were used here to identify such an eddy-driven plume and to detect and characterize both the mechanisms driving the plume and its biogeochemical impacts. Satellite imagery included chlorophyll (CHL), fluorescence line height (FLH) and chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM) measurements from SeaWiFS and MODIS-Aqua, sea surface temperatures from MODIS-Terra, QuikSCAT wind fields and a merged multi-platform sea surface height product (SSHa). In early June 2007 images, a prominent high-CHL plume (HCP) was seen extending from the continental shelf of the NGMx. A comparison of the CHL and SSHa fields revealed that the HCP was coincident with a cyclone–anticyclone pair, thus linked to an apparent cross-shelf transport. Nearest to the shelf, the CHL values associated with the transport fell within the usual CHL temporal and magnitude range for the summer CHL maximum. Further offshore, the HCP-associated CHL increase was temporally offset, occurring several weeks earlier than expected seasonal CHL peaks. Within the HCP, the relationship of CHL:CDOM:FLH notably diverged from the climatological status, supporting the hypothesis that the HCP composition includes modified shelf waters. Estimates of primary productivity across the study region revealed significant increases in productivity within the HCP's boundaries.
Bronchoconstriction in Response to Deep Inhalation During Spirometry Testing

In healthy individuals, airway resistance has an inverse relationship with lung volume.[1][1] Moreover, deep inhalation is thought to maintain airway smooth muscle homeostasis and to possess bronchodilating and bronchoprotective properties against challenge agents.[2][2]–[6][3] The bronchodilatory
Multicartridge Audio Tape Recorder

A multicartridge audio tape recorder using four plug-in cartridges with only one set of electronics is discussed. The convenience of automatic sequencing and continuous programming over a long time period is covered.
Self-gravitating response of a spherical galaxy to sinking satellites

Une methode pour calculer la reponse d'un systeme stellaire spherique a une perturbation periodique est presentee, la perturbation pouvant etre un mode normal ou une force exterieure appliquee. Une solution analytique est etablie pour la decroissance orbitale d'un satellite dans une galaxie self-gravitante, comme application de la methode. Le resultat montre que le temps de decroissance orbitale dans le cas self-gravitant est renforce d'un facteur 2-3 sur le cas non self-gravitant
A potential mechanism for the sexual dimorphism in the onset of puberty and incidence of idiopathic central precocious puberty in children: sex-specific kisspeptin as an integrator of puberty signals

The major determinants of the variability in pubertal maturation are reported to be genetic and inherited. Nonetheless, nutritional status contributes significantly to this variability. Malnutrition delays puberty whereas obesity has been associated to a rise in Idiopathic Central Precocious Puberty (ICPP) in girls. However, epidemiology data indicate that contribution of obesity to early puberty varies significantly among ethnic groups, and that obesity-independent inheritable genetic factors are the strongest predictors of early puberty in any ethnic group. In fact, two human mutations with confirmed association to ICPP have been identified in children with no history of obesity. These mutations are in kisspeptin and kisspeptin receptor, a ligand/receptor pair with a major role on the onset of puberty and female cyclicity after puberty. Progressive increases in kisspeptin expression in hypothalamic nuclei known to regulate reproductive function has been associated to the onset of puberty, and hypothalamic expression of kisspeptin is reported to be sexually dimorphic in many species, which include humans. The hypothalamus of females is programmed to express significantly higher levels of kisspeptin than their male counterparts. Interestingly, incidence of ICPP and delayed puberty in children is markedly sexually dimorphic, such that ICPP is at least 10-fold more frequent in females, whereas prevalence of delayed puberty is about 5-fold higher in males. These observations are consistent with a possible involvement of sexually dimorphic kisspeptin signaling in the sexual dimorphism of normal puberty and of pubertal disorders in children of all ethnicities. This review discusses the likelihood of such associations, as well as a potential role of kisspeptin as the converging target of environmental, metabolic, and hormonal signals, which would be integrated in order to optimize reproductive function.
A Reassessment of Regional Politics and International Relations in the South Caucasus

One way to begin a reassessment of the situation in the Caucasus and Central Asia following the September I 1, 2001 terrorist attacks in New York and WVashington, D.C., is to ask the question: What has changed or will change in the way international relations are conducted as a result of September 11? Will that horrendous act cause a radical change, will it merely accelerate existing trends, or will things in essence continue as they were? The short answer is that September 11 has accelerated and facilitated existing trends and processes. There is no doubt of the depth of the horror, the sense of solidarity with the US and American people as a victim immediately following the attacks, and the desire to transcend differences felt around the world. But these were soon subverted by governments and non-state actors who used their collaboration with the US or the new environment to the benefit of their own causes,' assisted by a sense that the US as well was using September 11 to pursue domestic and foreign policy agendas long in place. Rather than the horrendous nature of the crime imposing a new sense of international community, it is already altered agendas and strategies that are defining the nature-and utility-of the crime. September 11 has both justified and facilitated trends in American strategic thinking and the relation of American power to the rest of the world that predated the attacks. The radical change and predisposition to act differently were introduced with the coming of the new Bush administration inJanuary 2001.
Predicting Violent Crime Using Urban and Suburban Densities

Violent crime is often studied with individual level variables, using population characteristics as predictors. This study attempts to predict an additional amount of the variability in violent crime using an environmental variable-population density-in a single U.S. city. Data aggregated to the census block group level are used to test a model that compares the urban center of the city with the entire county and the non-urban parts of the county. Drawing on Jane Jacobs' (1961) theories of urbanism and the occurrence of crime, it was hypothesized that population density at the census block level would negatively predict violent crime in the urban areas. Based on evidence of a non-linear relationship between crime and density (Regoeczi, 2002), it was conversely hypothesized that density would have a positive predictive effect on violent crime in the suburban areas, due to differences in urban and suburban/rural crime. The analyses support the hypotheses for the urban areas, but fail to support the hypotheses for the suburban areas, providing insight into an elusive relationship-and the effects of environments on behavior patterns.
Tidally Triggered Star Formation in Close Pairs of Galaxies. II. Constraints on Burst Strengths and Ages

Galaxy-galaxy interactions rearrange the baryons in galaxies and trigger substantial star formation; the aggregate effects of these interactions on the evolutionary histories of galaxies in the universe are poorly understood. We combine B- and R-band photometry and optical spectroscopy to estimate the strengths and timescales of bursts of triggered star formation in the centers of 190 galaxies in pairs and compact groups. Based on an analysis of the measured colors and EW(Hα), we characterize the preexisting and triggered populations separately. The best-fitting burst scenarios assume stronger reddening corrections for line emission than for the continuum and continuous star formation lasting for 100 Myr. The most realistic scenarios require an initial mass function that is deficient in the highest mass stars. The color of the preexisting stellar population is the most significant source of uncertainty. Triggered star formation contributes substantially (probably 50%) to the R-band flux in the central regions of several galaxies; tidal tails do not necessarily accompany this star formation. Many of the galaxies in our sample have bluer centers than outskirts, suggesting that pre- or nonmerger interactions may lead to evolution along the Hubble sequence. These objects would appear blue and compact at higher redshifts; the older, redder outskirts of the disks would be difficult to detect. Our data indicate that galaxies with larger separations on the sky contain weaker, and probably older, bursts of star formation on average. However, confirmation of these trends requires further constraints on the colors of the older stellar populations and on the reddening for individual galaxies.
Increasing electric vehicle policy efficiency and effectiveness by reducing mainstream market bias

Plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) provide an opportunity for reducing energy use and emissions in the transportation sector. Currently, a number of federal policies are in place to incentivize deployment of PEVs to mainstream consumers with demographics and vehicle attribute preferences most common to today's new vehicle purchasers. This article argues that policies intending to give PEVs a foothold in the market should not focus on mainstream consumers and should instead focus on niche markets—specifically carsharing and postal fleets—and early adopters including green consumers. Two arguments can be made in support of eliminating the mainstream market bias of current policies toward a policy of cultivating niche markets. The first is efficiency: so far PEV policies featuring a mainstream market bias have proven to be inefficient and costly. The second is effectiveness: it is becoming increasingly evident that PEV policies would be more effective in achieving potential societal benefits if they focused on early adopters and niche markets using such approaches as strategic niche management, accessible loans and financing, and appropriately targeted incentives. PEV policies focused on early adopters and niche markets would create complementary system effects that will lead to increased PEV market penetration and realization of intended societal benefits.
Probing the single-wall carbon nanotube bundle: Raman scattering under high pressure

We report experimental and theoretical investigations on the pressure dependence of the Raman-active radial and tangential vibrational modes of single-wall carbon-nanotube bundles. Using 514.5-nm excitation, we find that the radial mode intensity disappears beyond 1.5 GPa, and the tangential mode intensity also drops considerably above this pressure. This observation is tentatively attributed to a loss in the electronic resonance in the Raman scattering cross section due to a hexagonal distortion in the cylindrical cross section of the tubes in the bundles under compression. Theoretical calculations were made as a function of pressure using a generalized tight-binding molecular dynamics scheme that included intertubule van der Waals coupling. Under certain model assumptions, the experimental pressure dependence of the radial mode is well described by the calculations, indicating that intertubule interactions strongly influence the ambient pressure frequency and the pressure behavior of the radial breathing mode.
Functional Pulmonary Atresia in Neonatal Marfan's Syndrome: Successful Treatment with Inhaled Nitric Oxide

Functional pulmonary atresia is characterized by a structurally normal pulmonary valve not opening during right ventricular ejection. We report this rare condition in a premature newborn of a twin pregnancy, in which fetal echocardiography findings were consistent with critical pulmonary stenosis. After birth, features of neonatal Marfan's syndrome were noted. Echocardiography showed a morphologically normal but immobile pulmonary valve with continuous regurgitation. Right ventricular pressure was subsystemic. In this case, initial treatment with nitric oxide, followed by pharmacological duct closure, was successful. Differentiating between anatomic and functional pulmonary valve atresia may be difficult. The echocardiographic criteria are discussed.
An indicator framework for assessing US state carbon emissions reduction efforts (with baseline trends from 1990 to 2001)

Abstract States are at the forefront of climate-related energy policy in the US, developing innovative policy and regional institutions for reducing carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. States matter because the larger ones use more energy and produce more carbon emissions than most nations and because their policies, though heterogeneous and until recently quite limited in scope, are shaping the context for national climate action. Despite this significance, little is known about trends in state carbon emissions or the effectiveness of state policies in reducing emissions. This paper describes a framework for analyzing and comparing state carbon emissions performance using sectoral indicators of emissions, energy consumption and carbon intensity linked to key policy domains. The paper also describes the range of state experience across indicators during the period 1990–2001, establishing a baseline of leading, lagging and average experience against which future state and regional change can be assessed. The conceptual framework and the empirical analysis of emission trends are intended to provide a better understanding of, and means for monitoring, state contributions toward achieving energy system sustainability.
Particle Sizing Using Frequency Domain Photon Migration

The transport properties of particulate process streams and their final product quality, are directly affected by critical parameters of particle size distribution, f(x) and volume, mass, or number density of particles or dispersed phase droplets. A method is proposed for the potential on-line monitoring of particle size distribution and volume fraction in real time, using frequency-domain photon migration measurements (FDPM). Theory, experimental measurements, and results for the determination of particle size distributions for both a polystyrene latex and a titanium dioxide suspension determined using the photon migration technique are presented. The critical issues associated with the application of photon migration to particulate and dispersed phase processes are discussed, including the effects of interparticle interactions on the transport of light.
Using Creative Process to Guide Integrated Art and Engineering Courses

Abstract This paper describes the design of two university courses that integrated practices and processes from the visual arts and engineering. In both cases, patterns of creative process were used as a means of integration. Researchers found that by focusing on process as a way to structure the integration of these two disciplines, students were able to create emergent, hybrid artifacts along the spectrum between art and engineering, beyond the range of their previous work. Creative process became the backbone that allowed students to integrate knowledge, materials, techniques, and culture across the art and engineering disciplines.
The Modern Theory of Presidential Power: Alexander Hamilton and the Corwin Thesis

Preface Introduction Hamilton and Washington Alexander Hamilton's Understanding of the American Regime and the Presidency The Political Thought and Conduct of President George Washington Revisionist Presidents and Revisionist Scholars of the Presidency Abraham Lincoln Theodore Roosevelt Woodrow Wilson and Franklin D. Roosevelt Scholarly Opinions of Presidential Power: Edward S. Corwin, Clinton Rossiter and Richard E. Neustadt Selected Bibliography Index
Fuzzy Clustering of Batting Averages

One of the most troubling, yet intriguing aspects of Major League Baseball is the fact that there is a mind-boggling amount of statistical data for the game. Batting averages are the pinnacle example of this problem. Beyond praising the players with the largest numbers, there has never been a system for establishing valid relationships amongst every professional. Fuzzy clustering provides a sound method for grouping batting averages that would not normally be linked together, and if implemented would usher in a new wave of player management, bargaining, and scouting. With fuzzy clustering, the age-old practice of stereotyping certain defensive positions as better hitters than others is eliminated. Instead of overlooking a group of players, the entire league can be analyzed rather quickly, without sacrificing or ignoring the hitting ability of any individual. By relating each player to his colleagues, a new source of player motivation is born for managers. A struggling hitter that is grouped with the best players can be shown the data, encouraged to recognize his potential, and realize that the slump is temporary. Also, players and owners can use the fuzzy-clustered batting averages in contract negotiations: a player being able to emphasize his lofty status among professional hitters, in an attempt to increase his salary, and an owner being able to point to a prospect's recent decline, in order to save money. Another noteworthy benefit of fuzzy clustering is the millions of dollars that could be saved in the scouting process. Traveling to see a hitter would no longer be necessary. Organizations could simply position a potential recruit amid other professionals and determine his relative ability and worth. Fuzzy clustering would forever changer Major League Baseball
Generalized solution of some parabolic equations with a random drift

Some stochastic partial differential equations arising from a turbulent transport model are studied using Hida's theory of Brownian functionals. For the spatially homogeneous case, the solutions are constructed as a regular or generalized Brownian functional, depending on a small parameter. The regularity property of such solutions is also determined. However, for the spatially nonhomogeneous equations, only generalized solutions in a series form involving iterated singular Wiener integrals are found.
The clinical and histologic presentation of gingival squamous cell carcinoma: a study of 519 cases

Objectives Gingival squamous cell carcinoma (SCCA) often presents with benign features, which may lead to delay in treatment. This study describes the clinical and histologic characteristics of a series of gingival SCCA cases. Study Design A retrospective consecutive case review was performed using the University of Florida College of Dentistry Biopsy service's database, which yielded clinical and histologic information on 519 cases of gingival SCCA. Results The average age of affected patients was 72.3 years. The most common site was the mandibular posterior gingiva. Approximately 72% of lesions were present for >2 months at biopsy. The majority of clinicians considered a malignancy in their differential diagnosis (64%), although 15% considered only reactive lesions. Most of the carcinomas presented as exophytic masses and, histologically, were moderately differentiated. Conclusions Gingival SCCA may present with varied clinical and histologic appearances and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of benign appearing lesions of the gingiva.
Spray Penetration and Drop Size Analysis

Understanding the disintegration mechanism, spray penetration, and spray motion is of great importance in the design of a high quality diesel engine. The atomization process that a liquid would undergo as it is injected into a high-temperature, high-pressure air, is investigated in this work. The purpose of this study is to gain further insight into the atomization mechanism, the variation over time in droplet size distribution and spray penetration. This is done based on the effects of chamber pressure, injection pressure, and type of fuel. A laser diffraction method is used to determine droplet mean diameters, single injection with synchronized time mechanism allowed the time dependent studies. Obscuration signals are obtained through a digital oscilloscope from which arrival time of spray can be measured. A spray penetration correlation is reported.Copyright © 2005 by ASME