cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Studies on the Role of Glycosyltransferases in the Hepatic Binding of Asialoglycoproteins

Abstract The presumed role of glycosyltransferases in the specific recognition and binding of asialoglycoproteins has been investigated utilizing a solubilized hepatic binding protein with a high specific activity for 125I-asialo-orosomucoid. Under optimally determined conditions, no transferase activity for sialic acid, galactose, N-acetylglucosamine, or fucose was detectable in the purified preparation. The inhibition of glycoprotein binding by α-lactalbumin, a specific modifier of galactosyltransferase, was confirmed and shown to result from competitive binding to the purified protein. In contrast to asialoglycoproteins, the binding of α-lactalbumin was independent of calcium and unaffected by EDTA.
Case report of congenital absence of lower half of vagina and hematocolpos.

Abstract 1. 1. A case of congenital absence of the lower half of the vagina with hematocolpos is presented. 2. 2. The simple surgical technique used to correct this deformity is described. 3. 3. The importance of careful follow-up and dilatations is stressed and a simple, effective dilator is described.
Through a mirror darkly: How programmers understand legacy code

Y2K - the Year 2000 software update challenge - highlighted for the general population what has been a recurrent issue in the software development community. That problem is the requirement to maintain and update legacy software long after the original programmers have gone, taking with them perhaps the only concrete knowledge of how the software actually works. Legacy code is older code that is still in use [28]. This research investigated how programmers understand legacy code in order to maintain and improve it. The findings were used to develop a theoretical model on how programmers understand legacy code, integrating difficulties and methods, including the need to understand why software was written in a particular style, format, or functional structure. The primary conclusions from this research are that knowledge sharing and collaborative structures in the enterprise could be significant factors for programmers and that even poor documentation is useful.
Structural and functional importance of a conserved hydrogen bond network in human carbonic anhydrase II.

Amino acid substitutions at Thr199 of human carbonic anhydrase II (CAII) (Thr199-->Ser, Ala, Val, and Pro) were characterized to investigate the importance of a conserved hydrogen bonding network. The three-dimensional structures of azide-bound and sulfate-bound T199V CAIIs were determined by x-ray crystallographic methods at 2.25 and 2.4 A, respectively (final crystallographic R factors are 0.173 and 0.174, respectively). The CO2 hydrase activities of T199S and T199P variants suggest that the side chain methyl and backbone amino functionalities stabilize the transition state by approximately 0.4 and 0.8 kcal/mol, respectively. The side chain hydroxyl group causes: stabilization of zinc-hydroxide relative to zinc-water (pKa increases approximately 2 units); stabilization of the transition state for bicarbonate dehydration relative to the CAII.HCO3- complex (approximately 5 kcal/mol); and destabilization of the CAII.HCO3- complex (approximately 0.8 kcal/mol). An inverse correlation between log(kcatCO2/KM) and the pKa of zinc-water (r = 0.95, slope = -1) indicates that the hydrogen bonding network stabilizes the chemical transition state and zinc-hydroxide similarly. These data are consistent with the hydroxyl group of Thr199 forming a hydrogen bond with the transition state and a non-hydrogen-bonded van der Waals contact with CAII.HCO3-.
Direct Recognition of Cytomegalovirus by Activating and Inhibitory NK Cell Receptors

Natural killer (NK) cells express inhibitory receptors for major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I antigens, preventing attack against healthy cells. Mouse cytomegalovirus (MCMV) encodes an MHC-like protein (m157) that binds to an inhibitory NK cell receptor in certain MCMV-susceptible mice. In MCMV-resistant mice, this viral protein engages a related activating receptor (Ly49H) and confers host protection. These activating and inhibitory receptors are highly homologous, suggesting the possibility that one evolved from the other in response to selective pressure imposed by the pathogen.
Pitfalls of the relaxation time approximation: Hydrodynamic sound in a multicomponent Fermi liquid

When transport in a Fermi liquid is treated in the relaxation time approximation, the quasiparticle energy appearing in the local equilibrium distribution must have the form determined by the nonequilibrium distribution function. Sometimes this requirement is overlooked and the equilibrium quasiparticle energy is used. In applications to unpolarized normal3He the resulting error can be repaired by a simple rescaling of the relaxation rates 1/τ1 by the Fermi liquid corrections 1+Fl/(2l+1). The distinction between the two forms of the relaxation time approximation is thus of little consequence, and quantities independent of the relaxation time are entirely unaffected. We point out that more significant damage results from using this wrong relaxation time approximation in a multicomponent (or spin-polarized single-component) Fermi liquid. In particular, it is essential to use the correct form to derive the velocity of hydrodynamic sound, even though the incorrect form also satisfies all the conservation laws, and even though the sound velocity is independent of the relaxation time.
History of the Irradiation Cross-Linking of Polyethylene

Abstract The formation of covalent C-C bonds or cross-links between the long chains in polyethylene (PE) by means of high energy irradiation was first deduced from changes in the stress-strain curves of the PE samples after irradiations in vacuo in the heavy water pile of the Argonne National Laboratory near Chicago in the academic year 1947-48. These cross-links can be produced in the solid sample at room temperature without change of shape of the sample. Such irradiated PE samples have a “memory effect” which has led to a large-scale application of the irradiation of PE to make heat shrinkable films and tubing.
Predicting the "unpredictable"

This is a survey of results about the accuracy of prediction when the predictor has no prior knowledge about the process that s/he must forecast. No prior knowledge means just that; no moments, distributions, periods etc.For example, suppose one is asked to predict successive outcomes of an infinite sequence of 0's and 1's. Accuracy will be measured by the fraction of correct guesses. With no information beyond this, how well can one guarantee to do?Predicting the actual outcome is demanding and in many cases inappropriate; think for example of the case when the sequence is generated by a stochastic process. In this case it is more natural to ask for a probability forecast. How should one measure the error of a probability forecast? Given this measure, are there forecasting algorithms that guarantee a small error no matter what process generates the sequence?
Changes in cell wall neutral sugar composition during fruit ripening: a species survey

Abstract Non-cellulosic neutral sugar composition of cell walls from seventeen fruit types were analysed during ripening. Galactose was the major non-cellulosic neutral sugar in cell walls of cucurbit and solanaceous fruit, xylose was the predominant non-cellulosic neutral component of berries, and arabinose was the major non-cellulosic component of pome fruits. The major non-cellulosic neutral sugar residue in cell walls of stone fruits varied. In nectarine and peach, plum, and apricot, the major sugar was arabinose, galactose, and xylose, respectively. In 15 of the 17 types of fruit, a net loss of non-cellulosic neutral sugar residues occurred during ripening. No net loss occurred in plums and cucumbers. A net loss of cell wall galactose and/or arabinose occurred in 14 of the types of fruit. Xylose was the major neutral sugar residue lost from walls of apricot during ripening. In general, berry cell walls were comparatively low in galactose and arabinose content.
GSK3β and the control of infectious bacterial diseases

Glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) has been shown to be a crucial mediator of the intensity and direction of the innate immune system response to bacterial stimuli. This review focuses on: (i) the central role of GSK3β in the regulation of pathogen-induced inflammatory responses through the regulation of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine production, (ii) the extensive ongoing efforts to exploit GSK3β for its therapeutic potential in the control of infectious diseases, and (iii) the increasing evidence that specific pathogens target GSK3β-related pathways for immune evasion. A better understanding of complex bacteria–GSK3β interactions is likely to lead to more effective anti-inflammatory interventions and novel targets to circumvent pathogen colonization and survival.
Substance P in heart failure: The good and the bad

The tachykinin, substance P, is found primarily in sensory nerves. In the heart, substance P-containing nerve fibers are often found surrounding coronary vessels, making them ideally situated to sense changes in the myocardial environment. Recent studies in rodents have identified substance P as having dual roles in the heart, depending on disease etiology and/or timing. Thus far, these studies indicate that substance P may be protective acutely following ischemia-reperfusion, but damaging long-term in non-ischemic induced remodeling and heart failure. Sensory nerves may be at the apex of the cascade of events leading to heart failure, therefore, they make a promising potential therapeutic target that warrants increased investigation.
Multi-intersection Traffic Light Control with blocking

We address the traffic light control problem for multiple intersections in tandem by viewing it in a stochastic hybrid system setting and developing a Stochastic Flow Model (SFM) for it. Our model includes roads with finite vehicle capacity, which may lead to additional delays due to traffic blocking. Using Infinitesimal Perturbation Analysis (IPA), we derive on-line gradient estimators of an average traffic congestion metric with respect to the controllable green and red cycle lengths. The IPA estimators obtained require counting traffic light switchings and estimating car flow rates only when specific events occur. The estimators are used to iteratively adjust light cycle lengths to improve performance and, in conjunction with a standard gradient-based algorithm, to seek optimal values which adapt to changing traffic conditions. Simulation results are included to illustrate the approach.
The relative effectiveness of signal related pedestrian countermeasures at urban intersections—Lessons from a New York City case study

Problem Walking, the simplest form of transportation has many benefits for pedestrians and the society. Yet, pedestrians are a vulnerable group of people and safety concerns are a significant barrier in one's decision to walk. Multiple signal related pedestrian countermeasures have been proposed to promote pedestrian safety. Although the safety impacts of individual strategies have been investigated, their relative effectiveness is little known. Furthermore, those effective in reducing pedestrian crashes may be at odds with motorist safety. Purpose In this study, we evaluate the relative effectiveness of four signal related pedestrian countermeasures in New York City - increasing the total cycle length, Barnes Dance, split phase timing, and signal installation - and examine potential trade-offs in their reducing pedestrian crashes and multiple vehicle crashes. Methods We adopted a rigorous two-stage design that first identifies a comparison group, corresponding to each treatment group, and then estimates a negative binomial model with the generalized estimating equation (GEE) method to further control confounding factors and within-subject correlation. Built environment characteristics are also accounted for. Results Set in a large urban area, this study shows trade-offs between improving pedestrian safety and motorist safety. The study finds that two of them - split phase timing and signal installation - are effective in reducing multiple vehicle crashes. Increasing total cycle length is most effective in promoting pedestrian safety, but its effect on motorist safety is insignificant. Among the four examined, Barnes Dance is the second most effective countermeasure in reducing pedestrian crashes and yet, it tends to increase multiple vehicle crashes, though the effect is insignificant. Takeaway for practice The findings indicate that selection and implementation of countermeasures for urban intersections should consider the types of conflicts and balance the time for different groups of road users at the intersections so that the countermeasure is targeted to the problem and the improvement of the safety of one group does not compromise the safety of other groups. It is suggested that increasing cycle length be implemented at intersections with wide streets and areas where there is a higher percentage of elderly pedestrians; Barnes Dance is best installed at areas with many pedestrians and a modest amount of traffic; split phase timing is most desirable for locations with turning movements and relatively narrow streets; and installation of new signals depends largely on the volume of pedestrian and vehicle traffic at the intersections as warranted by MUTCD. Language: en
Considering the application of the trait/state distinction for response shift research: continuing the conversation.

The article by Schwartz and Sprangers (this issue) is an extremely interesting article that opens the door to a much wider range of inquiry regarding health-related quality of life (HRQOL). I am very excited by this work, and I think that it has the potential to spark a much-needed dialogue in the HRQOL field, where methodology has gotten ahead of basic theory and conceptualization. In the spirit of continuing a dialogue started by this important article, I will raise several ideas that I hope will stimulate further dialogue. This article relies heavily on the Rapkin and Schwartz (2004) (R&S) [1] appraisal model, which is appropriate because appraisal is the linchpin for understanding the state and trait influences on QOL. As the authors note, the R&S model posits response shift as an inferred epiphenomenon, when changes in appraisal explain discrepancies in observed vs. expected QOL. However, the much larger question that this article raises, and that the R&S model does not address, has to do with the determinants of appraisal processes and changes in appraisal. For this reason, I think it is inconsistent to equate direct and indirect RS with trait and state components of appraisal. For example, a direct response shift would be evident if all people in a sample who shifted their standard of comparison from ‘‘healthy, past ideal’’ to ‘‘other patients with my illness’’ showed a positive improvement in QOL. An indirect response shift would be evident if the positive improvement in QOL only occurred among those people who shifted their standard of comparison and who experienced worsened symptoms. Neither the direct response shift nor indirect response shift scenarios presuppose the determinants of the associated change in appraisal itself. The change in appraisal might have occurred because of affective reservedpeople with more resources might have an easier time modulating their negative affect, getting unstuck in their thinking, and adopting an
News of Corporate Failure: Evaluating the Relationship Between Individual Assessments and Market Investments

Individuals’ comprehension of communication is shaped by the use of metaphor. This study illustrates how the use of metaphor in business and economic news coverage shapes individuals’ responsibility attributions in ways that can ultimately influence consumers’ investment decisions. In a randomized experimental design, participants were invited to read news articles that described the bankruptcy of a business. The treatment text narrated the bankruptcy using metaphor, while the control text narrated the same event without the use of metaphor. After exposure to the communication text narrated with metaphor, responsibility attributions and subsequent investment decisions were significantly altered. The findings suggest that individual responsibility attributions, particularly when employed in connection with exposure to metaphorical loss frames, have the ability to influence individuals’ economic decisions. The theoretical importance and prospects for future communication studies are considered.
An experimental method for measuring the mean length of cerebellar parallel fibers: validation and derivation of a correction factor by computational simulation and probability analysis

The length of cerebellar parallel fibers is important for information integration by the Purkinje cells. Based on the Copernican principle for analyzing the length of stochastic events, we have recently devised a stochastic method to estimate the mean length of parallel fibers within a given cerebellar region. The purpose of the present report is to provide validation of this methodology via computational simulations. We create virtual parallel fibers with known lengths and program each step of our stochastic method for computational simulation. We then compare the observed mean length obtained from our computational simulation with the known mean length of the virtual parallel fibers. In particular, we investigate the effect of cutting parallel fibers into segments during histological sectioning. Our computational results reveal an over-estimation factor ranging from 1.0 (no correction is necessary) to 2.0 as the parallel fiber segmentation becomes increasingly severe. Based on probability theory considerations, we have confirmed the existence of this over-estimation. We have further determined the cause of this over-estimation to be an artificial consequence of one of the sampling steps in our stochastic method. These results provide validation of our methodology, as well as a correction factor, which can be derived directly from the experimentally measured parameters and used to obtain the true mean length of parallel fibers. Potential applications of the stochastic method include a comparative analysis of the length of parallel fibers as an approach to gain clues about cerebellar circuit principles and function. In addition, the stochastic method may also find promising applications in other functionally important axonal systems in the brain.
Performance of a Hopping Rotochute

A hybrid micro air/ground vehicle has been developed and is specifically tailored to explore interior spaces with complex terrain. The vehicle, called the hopping rotochute, maneuvers through intricate environments by hopping over or through impeding obstacles. A small coaxial rotor system provides the necessary lift while a moveable internal mass allows directional control. In addition, the low mass center and egg-like exterior shape of the body creates a means to passively reorient the vehicle to an upright attitude when in contact with the ground while protecting the rotating components. This paper examines basic flight performance of the device obtained through a validated simulation. Key parameters such as system weight, rotor speed, internal mass weight and location, as well as battery capacity are varied to explore air vehicle performance characteristics such as single hop height and range, number of hops, and total achievable range. In general, the total achievable range is increased as the intern...
On the rate of convergence of some feasible direction algorithms

This paper is concerned with first-order methods of feasible directions. Pironneau and Polak have recently proved theorems which show that three of these methods have a linear rate of convergence for certain convex problems in which the objective functions have positive definite Hessians near the solutions. In the present note, it is shown that these theorems on rate of convergence can be extended to larger classes of problems. These larger classes are determined in part by certain second-order sufficiency conditions, and they include many nonconvex problems. The arguments used here are based on the finite-dimensional version of Hestenes' indirect sufficiency method.
Rendering synthetic objects into real scenes: bridging traditional and image-based graphics with global illumination and high dynamic range photography

We present a method that uses measured scene radiance and global illumination in order to add new objects to light-based models with correct lighting. The method uses a high dynamic range image-based model of the scene, rather than synthetic light sources, to illuminate the new objects. To compute the illumination, the scene is considered as three components: the distant scene, the local scene, and the synthetic objects. The distant scene is assumed to be photometrically unaffected by the objects, obviating the need for reflectance model information. The local scene is endowed with estimated reflectance model information so that it can catch shadows and receive reflected light from the new objects. Renderings are created with a standard global illumination method by simulating the interaction of light amongst the three components. A differential rendering technique allows for good results to be obtained when only an estimate of the local scene reflectance properties is known.We apply the general method to the problem of rendering synthetic objects into real scenes. The light-based model is constructed from an approximate geometric model of the scene and by using a light probe to measure the incident illumination at the location of the synthetic objects. The global illumination solution is then composited into a photograph of the scene using the differential rendering technique. We conclude by discussing the relevance of the technique to recovering surface reflectance properties in uncontrolled lighting situations. Applications of the method include visual effects, interior design, and architectural visualization.
A Climatological Baseline for Assessing the Skill of Tropical Cyclone Phase Forecasts

AbstractA simple linear discriminant analysis scheme using climatological predictors is derived for the Atlantic basin as a no-skill baseline for operational phase forecasts from the National Hurricane Center (NHC). The model with independent data correctly classifies 80% of the cases at 12 h, and this value decreases to about 45% by 60 h, remaining steady thereafter. Using the same cases, NHC-issued phase predictions were more frequently accurate than the baseline, so their forecasts are said to have skill.
The Effect of Tissue Culture on Suture Holding Strength and Degradation in Canine Tendon

The purpose of this study was to assess tendon metabolism and suture pull-out strength after simple tendon suture in a tissue culture model. One hundred and twelve flexor digitorum profundus tendons from 28 dogs were cultured for 7, 14, or 21 days with or without a static tensile load. In both groups increased levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) mRNA was noted. Suture pull-out strength did not decrease during tissue culture. While the presence of a static load had no effect on the pull-out strength, it did affect MMP mRNA expression. This tissue culture model could be useful in studying the effect of factors on the tendon-suture interface.
Cross-conjugated polymers via condensation of a zirconocene alkynyl(benzyne) derivative generated by thermolysis of Cp2ZrMe(C6H4CCSiMe3)

Abstract The complex Cp2ZrMe(C6H4CCSiMe3) (4) has been synthesized by reaction of Cp2ZrMeCl and LiC6H4CCSiMe3 (generated in situ from reaction of nBuLi with BrC6H4CCSiMe3 at −95°C). Thermolysis of 4 in THF afforded an unsaturated, organometallic polymer [Cp2Zr(C6H3CCSiMe3)]n (7) in ca. 80% yield ( M w M n = 4000 2000 ). Polymer 7 was investigated as a synthon for other unsaturated polymers. It reacts with hydrochloric acid to form a new phenylene-1,1-vinylene polymer [C(CHSiMe3)-1,4-C6H4-]n (8), and with sulfur dichloride to give poly(1-trimethylsilyl-2-benzo[b]thiophene) (9). Thermolysis of two similar compounds, Cp2ZrMe(C6H4CCCH3) (5) and Cp2ZrMe(C6H4C6H4CCSiMe3) (6), did not give polymers.
Enhanced hydrogel adhesion by polymer interdiffusion: Use of linear poly(ethylene glycol) as an adhesion promoter

The fracture energy required to separate layers of hydrogel films was investigated to evaluate the impact of bulk polymer diffusion on hydrogel/hydrogel adhesion and to obtain molecular information on the fracture energy in polymer mucoadhesion. Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) was incorporated in a hydrogel and was used as an adhesion promoter. The influence of PEG molecular weight and contact time on PEG diffusion across the hydrogel/hydrogel interface was investigated by using tensiometric studies and near-field FTIR microscopy. These experiments indicated that linear PEG diffusion enhanced the adhesion between the two hydrogel layers. The enhanced adhesion could not be explained by surface wetting phenomena alone. These results indicated that bulk diffusion of linear polymers such as PEG (adhesion promoter) incorporated into polymer networks (hydrogels) was an effective technique for enhancing gel/gel adhesion in various applications including polymer/mucus interactions in mucoadhesion and development of mucoadhesive controlled drug delivery systems.
EOSINOPHILIC PUSTULAR FOLLICULAR REACTION: A PARADIGM OF IMMUNE DYSREGULATION

Background. We encountered 10 patients whose biopsies showed an eosinophilic pustular follicular reaction, a histomorphology alleged to be pathognomonic of eosinophilic folliculitis (EF). Only seven of these patients fell within the clinical spectrum of EF. Seven patients had conditions associated with immune dysfunction, including three patients with an atopic history. Potential antigenic stimuli could be elicited in six cases. Methods. Formalin-fixed biopsy specimens from all 10 patients were available for examination. Hematoxylin and eosin-, alcian blue-periodic acid-Schiff (PAS)- and PAS-diastase-stained sections cut from paraffin-embedded tissue were examined by light microscopy. Immunoperoxidase preparations with antibody to IgE were performed on paraffin sections and the number of IgE-decorated cells quantitated in each case. Four patients also had biopsy material submitted in Michel's medium, on which direct immunofluorescent studies were conducted. Results. IgE-coated mononuclear cells were present in patients whose lesions would logically be expected to derive from dominant type I hypersensitivity mechanisms and absent or minimal in biopsies from those patients in whom the pathogenetic basis of lesions derived principally from cell-mediated immunity. Conclusions. The eosinophilic pustular follicular reaction, while characteristic of EF, is not exclusive to that entity. It represents an expression of an excessive immediate or delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction to various auto-, epicutaneous, or ingested stimuli. A background of immune dysregulation may be contributory.
Psychosocial and combined treatments for ADHD

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common mental health disorder of childhood and results in serious impairment across a variety of domains. The only empirically validated treatments for ADHD include psychostimulant medication, behavioral treatment, and their combination. This article reviews studies of behavioral treatments for ADHD, including clinical behavioral interventions (parent training, school interventions), contingency management techniques, and intensive treatments. Behavioral treatments are shown to be effective in improving the behavior and academic performance of children with ADHD. In addition, studies of combined behavioral and pharmacological treatments for ADHD are reviewed. Limitations of each single treatment (behavioral, pharmacological) alone are described in the context of the efficacy of combining modalities. Finally, directions for future study are discussed. MRDD Research Reviews 1999;5:225–236. ©1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The impact of technological innovation—Concepts and measurement☆

Abstract Past studies of the economic effects of innovation have been based on inadequate conceptual foundations and their findings may therefore be invalid. In particular, too superficial and too narrow a view has been taken of the impact of innovation on inputs, outputs and production flows. The author argues the need for a deeper and more comprehensive framework for the analysis of innovation, showing resultant interaction among all the inputs and outputs of the system under study. For this, more effective measurements than have hitherto been available are required of output levels, inputs, productivity and unit costs. The paper then examines the deficiencies of currently used indices and indicates the conceptual requirements for more meaningful measurements of innovatory effects.
Biometal Derivatives as Catalysts for the Ring-Opening Polymerization of Trimethylene Carbonate. Optimization of the Ca(II) Salen Catalyst System

Schiff base derivatives of the biometals (Zn, Mg, Ca) in the presence of anion initiators have been shown to be very effective catalysts for the ring-opening polymerization of trimethylene carbonate (TMC or 1,3-dioxan-2-one) to poly(TMC) devoid of oxetane linkages. The order of catalytic activity as a function of metal was found to be Ca(II) ≫ Mg(II) > Zn(II). Optimization of the calcium system was achieved utilizing a salen ligand with tert-butyl substituents in the 3,5-positions of the phenolate rings and an ethylene backbone for the diimine along with an azide ion initiator. These conditions led to a TOF of 1286 h-1 for a melt polymerization carried out at 86 °C. Solution studies in tetrachloroethane demonstrated the polymerization reaction to proceed via a mechanism first order in [monomer], [(salen)Ca], and [anion initiator] and to involve TMC ring-opening by way of acyl−oxygen bond cleavage. The activation parameters were determined to be ΔH⧧ = 20.1 kJ/mol and ΔS⧧ = −128 J/(mol K).
Optimum design and error analysis of digital integrators for discrete system simulation

In digital differential analyzers and digital computers, simulation is carried out by some form of numerical integration or of replacing a difference differential equation by a difference equation. This paper is concerned with the development of optimum numerical integration and digital simulation techniques and a discussion of the accuracy of these methods when compared with ideal integration.
Fructose diphosphate aldolase during growth and development of the blowfly, Phormia regina (Meigen).

Abstract 1. 1. Two Class I aldolase variants have been found in the blowfly Phormia regina; the insect muscle enzyme is similar to vertebrate muscle aldolase, while the fat body variant bears resemblances to that of vertebrate liver. 2. 2. Larval and adult blowfly muscle aldolase appear to be identical, whereas differences exist between larval and adult fat body enzymes. 3. 3. Total aldolase activity increases during larval growth, follows a U-shaped curve during metamorphosis and increases rapidly during adult maturation. Muscle aldolase follows a similar profile. 4. 4. The fat body enzyme rises slowly during larvae growth, continues to increase in activity during most of metamorphosis and declines in the adult.
Training Paraprofessionals to Improve Socialization in Students with ASD.

An important line of research relates to whether school personnel, such as paraprofessionals, who are present during unstructured social periods, such as lunch-recess, could successfully implement interventions to improve socialization between students with ASD and their typical peers in a group setting. Therefore, within the context of a multiple baseline across participants design, we assessed whether training paraprofessionals to provide social interventions would enhance social development in students with ASD in a group setting. Results showed that paraprofessionals who were not providing any social opportunities during baseline were able to meet fidelity of implementation following a brief training. Consequently, the children with ASD increased their levels of engagement and rates of initiation with typically developing peers following intervention. Implications for training paraprofessionals to implement effective social interventions for students with ASD are discussed.
Endemic Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in a neonatal intensive care unit

Background Nosocomial infections due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa have been well described, but the environmental reservoir of the organism varies. We conducted an epidemiologic and molecular investigation of endemic P. aeruginosa infection among infants in a neonatal intensive care unit that was associated with carriage of the organisms on the hands of health care workers. Methods In August 1998, colonization or infection with P. aeruginosa was identified in six infants. Surveillance cultures for P. aeruginosa were obtained from the other 27 infants in the unit, and possible environmental reservoirs were also assessed. The hands of health care workers were inspected and cultured, and risk factors for P. aeruginosa colonization were evaluated. Isolates were analyzed for clonality by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. Results Surveillance cultures showed that three additional infants were colonized with P. aeruginosa. Cultures of environmental specimens were negative, but cultures of the hands of 10 of 165 hea...
Boundary Layer Studies on Polymer Drag Reduction Using PIV and PLIF

The structure of turbulence in a drag reduced flat plate boundary layer has been studied with particle image velocimetry (PIV) and planar laser induced fluorescence (PLIF). Drag reduction was achieved by injection of a solution of water-soluble polymer through a spanwise slot near the leading edge of the flat plate. Velocity and concentration data were obtained using PIV and PLIF, respectively, in planes parallel to the wall (x-z plane) and perpendicular to the wall (x-y plane). Measurements of velocity, vorticity and streak spacing were obtained and trends analyzed. For increasing drag reduction, damping of streak oscillations, suppression of streak splitting and merging, streak stabilization and coarsening of the low speed streaks was observed. PLIF measurements of the injected polymer solution showed that regions of high polymer concentration are correlated with the low speed streaks. PIV measurements in the x-y plane showed that there are significant differences in the statistics of turbulence between boundary layers with polymer injection and channel flow with an ocean of polymer.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Predictors of Technical Success and Postnatal Biventricular Outcome After In Utero Aortic Valvuloplasty for Aortic Stenosis With Evolving Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome

Background— Aortic stenosis in the midgestation fetus with a normal-sized or dilated left ventricle predictably progresses to hypoplastic left heart syndrome when associated with certain physiological findings. Prenatal balloon aortic valvuloplasty may improve left heart growth and function, possibly preventing evolution to hypoplastic left heart syndrome. Methods and Results— Between March 2000 and October 2008, 70 fetuses underwent attempted aortic valvuloplasty for critical aortic stenosis with evolving hypoplastic left heart syndrome. We analyzed this experience to determine factors associated with procedural and postnatal outcome. The median gestational age at intervention was 23 weeks. The procedure was technically successful in 52 fetuses (74%). Relative to 21 untreated comparison fetuses, subsequent prenatal growth of the aortic and mitral valves, but not the left ventricle, was improved after intervention. Nine pregnancies (13%) did not reach a viable term or preterm birth. Seventeen patients had...
Intra-Industry Performance Comparison and Industrial Concentration

This study examines the importance of economies of scale in measuring the concentration-profits relationship. Firms are grouped into industries facilitating within industry analyses. Replacement cost disclosures are utilized to evaluate any price change bias resulting from the use of traditional accounting statements.This study produces no indication of economies of scale in high or low concentration industries. In medium concentration industries there is a weak tendency for larger firms to have higher returns. This result cannot, however, be attributed to scale economies. Observed replacement cost price adjustments are not randomly distributed across firms.
An assessment of the safety of adolescent and adult tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine, using active surveillance for adverse events in the Vaccine Safety Datalink.

Using a new sequential analytic method, the safety of tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine was monitored weekly among subjects aged 10-64 years during 2005-2008. Encephalopathy-encephalitis-meningitis, paralytic syndromes, seizures, cranial nerve disorders, and Guillain-Barre syndrome were selected as outcomes based on previous reports and biologic plausibility. The risk following Tdap was not significantly higher than the risk after Td. Statistical power was sufficient to detect a relative risk of 4-5 for Guillain-Barre syndrome and 1.5-2 for the other outcomes. This study provides reassurance that Tdap is similar in safety to Td regarding the outcomes studied and supports the viability of sequential analysis for post-licensure vaccine safety monitoring.
Surface and colloid chemical studies of gamma iron oxides for magnetic memory media

Abstract The specific interaction of dispersants and of matrix polymers with the surface of gamma iron oxide particles determines the dispersibility of these powders in coating formulations for magnetic tapes and disks, and also determines the adhesion and other mechanical properties of the cast tapes. These specific interactions have been found to be Lewis acid—base interactions of the surface sites of the gamma iron oxides with the active sites of the polymers or dispersants. The FeOH surface sites of the gamma iron oxides can react with either acidic or basic molecules, and the energy of such bonds can be assessed and predicted by measurement of the molar heats of adsorption of test acids and bases with the FeOH sites. We have measured the molar heats of adsorption of test acids and bases with two different methods; primarily with a flow microcalorimeter having down-stream UV concentration-detection, but also by FTIR transmission measurements of the infrared spectral shifts of complexation of test acids or bases with the surface FeOH sites. Polymer adsorption onto gamma iron oxides from multicomponent systems (three solvents and two polymer species) was studied by another FTIR technique, photo-acoustic spectroscopy, and the results of such adsorption on the dispersibility and dispersion stability of the gamma iron oxides were assessed by photon correlation spectroscopy. Photon correlation spectra of solutions of the basic polymer polyvinylmethylether in basic organic solvents showed that some of the polymer was in the form of one micron aggregates which caused rapid flocculation of the oxide, but upon addition of the acidic epoxy resin the polymer was less aggregated and the oxide became well dispersed.
A survey of carbon monoxide emission in dark clouds

Results are reported of a CO and (C-13)O survey of 68 dark clouds from the Lynds catalog. CO was detected in 63 of the 64 sources in which it was searched for, and the (C-13)O line was seen in 52 of 55 clouds. There is a rather narrow distribution of CO peak line radiation temperatures about a mean of 6 K; this may reflect the presence of a roughly uniform kinetic temperature of 9.5 K in the sources. Despite the probably subthermal excitation temperature of the (C-13)O transition observed, derived (C-13)O column densities are most likely good to within a factor of 2. Typical CO column densities for the clouds surveyed are 5 x 10 to the 17-th power per sq cm, assuming a terrestrial carbon isotope ratio. All 68 clouds have previously been studied by Dieter in 6-cm H2CO absorption; a comparison of line widths shows the (C-13)O lines to generally be wider than their formaldehyde counterparts. Possible explanations of this fact in terms of internal cloud motions are discussed.
Science & music: lost in music.

Music provides unique opportunities for understanding both brain and culture. But globalization means that time is running out, warns David Huron, for the quest to encounter the range of possible musical minds.
Prolonged separation delays wound healing in monogamous California mice, Peromyscus californicus, but not in polygynous white-footed mice, P. leucopus

Abstract Social interactions are often stressful, but under certain circumstances, they may be beneficial for health and well-being. In a previous study, wound healing was slowed after mate separation (2 days) in monogamous California mice, Peromyscus californicus , but not polygynous white-footed mice, P. leucopus . Although these results indicate that positive social interaction is critical for immune activity in some species, the extent to which such social effects are enduring remains unspecified. The goal of the present experiments was to determine whether a period representing ∼20% of expected adult lifespan of these species in the wild (8 weeks) would affect wound healing. Because our experimental design required that the same animals were wounded twice, we were also able to determine the extent to which wound healing is repeatable. Wound healing remained delayed after 8 weeks of separation in P. californicus , and healing scores were not correlated between first and second wounds within individuals. In P. leucopus however, housing conditions did not influence wound healing, but first and second wound healings were correlated indicating repeatability. In sum, our results suggest that positive social interactions may be important for promoting immune activity in some species.
Gene profiles and electrophysiology of doublecortin-expressing cells in the subventricular zone after ischemic stroke.

Stroke increases neuroblasts in the subventricular zone (SVZ) of the lateral ventricle and these neuroblasts migrate toward the ischemic boundary to replace damaged neurons. Using brain slices from the nonischemic adult rat and transgenic mice that expressed enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) concomitantly with doublecortin (DCX), a marker for migrating neuroblasts, we recorded electrophysiological characteristics while simultaneously analyzing the gene expression in single SVZ cells. We found that SVZ cells expressing the DCX gene from the nonischemic rat had a mean resting membrane potential (RMP) of −30 mV. DCX—EGFP-positive cells in the nonischemic SVZ of the transgenic mouse had a mean RMP of −25 ± 7 mV and did not exhibit Na+ currents, characteristic of immature neurons. However, DCX—EGFP-positive cells in the ischemic SVZ exhibited a hyperpolarized mean RMP of −54 ± 18 mV and displayed Na+ currents, indicative of more mature neurons. Single-cell multiplex RT-PCR analysis revealed that DCX—EG...
On the wave equation with a potential

(1999). On the wave equation with a potential. Communications in Partial Differential Equations: Vol. 25, No. 7-8, pp. 1549-1565.
Iodine adsorption characteristics of newly-formed rat liver glycogen.

Es wird fur die Bestimmung des Leberglykogens eine Jod-Adsorptionsmethode mit der ublichen Hydrolyse zu Glukose verglichen. Fur normale und unbehandelte diabetische Ratten zeigen die Glykogenwerte mit beiden Methoden gute Ubereinstimmung. Dagegen ist die Farbintensitat je Gewichtseinheit des Jod-Glykogen-Komplexes bei insulinbehandelten diabetischen Ratten ebenso wie bei fastenden glukosegefutterten Ratten wesentlich grosser als bei normalen Tieren. Daraus lasst sich schliessen, dass frisch gebildetes Glykogen eine erhohte Jod-Adsorptionsfahigkeit besitzt. Qualitativ erfahrt die Farbe des Jod-Glykogen-Komplexes unter den verschiedenen Bedingungen keine Veranderung.
Stochastic spineless expression creates the retinal mosaic for colour vision

Drosophila colour vision is achieved by R7 and R8 photoreceptor cells present in every ommatidium. The fly retina contains two types of ommatidia, called ‘pale’ and ‘yellow’, defined by different rhodopsin pairs expressed in R7 and R8 cells. Similar to the human cone photoreceptors, these ommatidial subtypes are distributed stochastically in the retina. The choice between pale versus yellow ommatidia is made in R7 cells, which then impose their fate onto R8. Here we report that the Drosophila dioxin receptor Spineless is both necessary and sufficient for the formation of the ommatidial mosaic. A short burst of spineless expression at mid-pupation in a large subset of R7 cells precedes rhodopsin expression. In spineless mutants, all R7 and most R8 cells adopt the pale fate, whereas overexpression of spineless is sufficient to induce the yellow R7 fate. Therefore, this study suggests that the entire retinal mosaic required for colour vision is defined by the stochastic expression of a single transcription factor, Spineless.
A graded organ culture assay for the detection of mullerian inhibiting substance

Abstract A sensitive, reliable, semiquantitaive organ culture assay has been developed to detect the presence of Mullerian Inhibiting Substance, both in whole testicular fragments, and in cell-free extracts. This in vitro assay allows regression to occur in a manner which mimics the in vivo regression of the male fetal Mullerian duct. Timed exposure studies demonstrate that the Mullerian duct must be exposed to the testicular fragments for at least 12 hr before regression is initiated. Seventy-two hours are required for the morphological changes of regression to be fully expressed. Mullerian Inhibiting Substance is a compound of considerable importance in sexual differentiation. This assay will allow a more systematic approach to the study of this unique fetal regressor.
The appearance of DNA breakage and repair activities in the synchronous meiotic cycle of Lilium

Abstract The appearance of three complementary DNA breakage and repair activities is observed during the zygotene-pachytene stages of meiotic prophase in lily microsporocytes. The appearance of these DNA metabolic activities is correlated in time when homologous chromosomes pair and when a DNA repair replication synthesis is observed. One enzymic activity which appears is an endonuclease that produces repairable single-strand DNA breaks with 5′-hydroxyl termini. The endonuclease is accompanied in its appearance by two DNA repair activities, polynucleotidase kinase and polynucleotide ligase. Polynucleotide kinase can phosphorylate 5′-hydroxyl termini produced by the endonuclease and polynucleotide ligase can join the resulting 5′-phosphate to a juxtapositioned 3′- terminus. It is proposed that these activities compose a breakage and reunion mechanism responsible for genetic recombination activities in meiosis.