cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Endoplasmic Reticulum Oxidoreductin-1-Like β (ERO1lβ) Regulates Susceptibility to Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Is Induced by Insulin Flux in β-Cells

Hyperglycemia increases insulin flux through the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) of pancreatic β-cells, and the unfolded protein response pathway is required to enhance insulin processing. Pancreatic and duodenal homeobox 1 (PDX1), a key pancreatic transcription factor, regulates insulin along with targets involved in insulin processing and secretion. Here we find that PDX1 is a direct transcriptional regulator of ER oxidoreductin-1-like β (Ero1lβ), which maintains the oxidative environment of the ER to facilitate disulfide bond formation. PDX1 deficiency reduced Ero1lβ transcript levels in mouse islets and mouse insulinoma (MIN6) cells; moreover, PDX1 occupied the Ero1lβ promoter in β-cells. ERO1lβ levels were induced by high glucose concentrations and by the reducing agent dithiothreitol, indicating potential roles in adaptation to increased oxidative protein folding load in the β-cell ER. In MIN6 cells, small interfering RNA-mediated silencing of Ero1lβ decreased insulin content and increased susceptibility to ER stress-induced apoptosis. These findings demonstrate roles for the PDX1 target ERO1lβ in maintaining insulin content and regulating cell survival during ER stress.
In vivo and in vitro fate of fenvalerate in house flies

Investigations of pyrethroid resistant (R) and susceptible (S) house flies (Musca domestica L.) provided conclusive evidence that a high level of cross-resistance to fenvalerate in the laboratory-selected R strain was influenced by an enhanced capability for metabolic degradation of the toxicant. Comparative studies of the in vitro metabolism of [14C]fenvalerate by homogenate preparations of S and R house flies, in the presence or absence of the mixed function oxidase (mfo) inhibitor piperonyl butoxide (PBO) or the esterase inhibitor S,S,S-tributylphosphorothioate (DEF), indicated that elevation of mfo activity was a major component of enhanced metabolism and that there also was enhancement of esterases associated with both the microsomal and cytosolic subcellular fractions of homogenate preparations of R insects. In vitro studies of the effects of coad-ministered PBO or DEF on the absorption and metabolism of topically applied [14C]fenvalerate in R insects demonstrated that both synergists slowed the rate at which the toxicant penetrated the cuticle; PBO significantly reduced the metabolic degradation of fenvalerate, but effects of DEF on metabolism were less conclusive.
The effects of γ-aminobutyric acid on evoked potentials

Abstract The effects of topical application of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) on evoked potentials of cerebral cortex were examined in cats anesthetized with Nembutal or with Pentothal and chloralose. The dendritic response, the transcallosal response, the sensory primary response, and the recruiting response were tested. Significant changes in sign, amplitude, and duration were noted. These changes were neither specific for a given type of control evoked potential, nor invariable for that response. In addition to effects that indicate an inhibitory action by GABA, as has been proposed by others, effects excitatory in nature were observed—most obviously in the enhancement of both phases of diphasic control potentials. Prolongation of the time course of evoked potentials was also noted, in conjunction with greater, rather than less, total electrogenesis. These potent, but nonpredictable effects, indicate the need for microelectrode analysis of the response of individual neurons to GABA.
The national estimates approach to U.S. fire statistics

The development of the National Fire Incident Reporting System in the late 1970s made detailed, representative national fire statistics possible for the first time. However, calculation rules used to produce these statistics have varied among users. The authors present a detailed consensus procedure for such calculations and the supporting rationale.
Sorption capacity of a new generation granular activated carbon—Bio-Sep® bead—and its use in a suspended growth bioreactor

BACKGROUND: A new generation granular activated carbon—Bio-Sep® beads—consist of 25% polymer (Nomex) and 75% powdered activated carbon. The porous structure and high surface area of these beads make them suitable for sorbent in adsorption columns, and for immobilization media in bioreactors. The aim of this study was to study the sorption characteristics of Bio-Sep® beads for methyl t-butyl ether (MTBE) and t-butyl alcohol (TBA), and to demonstrate the advantage of their usage in a suspended growth bioreactor. RESULTS: The maximum uptake capacity of Bio-Sep® beads for MTBE and TBA, in the studied concentration range (10–100 mg L−1), was observed to be 9.73 and 6.23 mg g−1, respectively. A 52 h desorption experiment resulted in 13.6–42.2% MTBE and 33–53% TBA desorption corresponding to the initial solid phase concentrations of 1.68–9.73 mg g−1 and 1.41–6.23 mg g−1, respectively. The sorption of TBA on the Bio-Sep® beads was significantly hindered by the presence of MTBE. The addition of 10 g Bio-Sep® beads (dry weight) in a suspended growth bioreactor was able to eliminate the inhibitory effect of 150 mg L−1 MTBE. CONCLUSIONS: At an equilibrium aqueous phase concentration (Ce) of 1 mg L−1, the solid phase concentration (qe) on Bio-Sep® beads were observed as 1.44 and 0.47 mg g−1 for MTBE and TBA, respectively. The results obtained in this study indicate that Bio-Sep® beads have reasonable sorption and desorption characteristics, which can be successfully exploited for the removal/degradation of toxic organic pollutants in high rate bioreactors. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Education by Any Means Necessary: Peoples of African Descent and Community-Based Pedagogical Spaces

This study examines how and why peoples of African descent access and utilize community-based pedagogical spaces that exist outside schools. Employing a theoretical framework that fuses historical methodology and border-crossing theory, the researchers review existing scholarship and primary documents to present an historical examination of how peoples of African descent have fought for and redefined education in nonschool educative venues. These findings inform the authors’ analysis of results from an oral history project they conducted into how Black Bermudian men utilized learning spaces outside schools, such as the family, Black church, and athletics clubs, to augment their personal and scholastic development. Based on their historical and empirical research findings, the authors argue that educational actors (including teachers, administrators, policy makers, and researchers) focused on school-based issues like the academic achievement gap would do well to recognize the impact learning spaces outside...
Molecular composites from sulfonated poly(p-phenylene terephthalamide)

It is shown that sulfonated poly(p-phenylene terephtalamide) [NHPh(SO 3 H)NHCOPhCO] n fporm molecular composites with flexible poly(4-vinylpyridine), poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) and poly(vinyl alcohol)
Processing of bacteriophage lambda DNA during its assembly into heads.

Abstract DNA purified from bacteriophage λ added to a cell-free extract derived from induced λ lysogens can be packaged into infectious phage particles (Kaiser & Masuda, 1973). In this paper the structure of the DNA which is the substrate for in vitro packaging and head assembly is described. The active precursor is a multichromosomal polymer that contains covalently closed cohesive end sites. Neither circular or linear DNA monomers nor polymers with unsealed cohesive ends are packaged efficiently into heads. The unit length monomer is packaged when it is either contained in the interior of a polymer (both of its ends are in cos sites) or when it has a free left end and a cos site on its right. The monomer unit with a free right end is not a substrate for packaging. A procedure is given for the purification of λ DNA fragments that contain either the left or the right cohesive end. The fragments are produced by digesting λ DNA with the site-specific Escherichia coli R1 endonuclease; the left and right ends are separated by sedimentation through a sucrose gradient. These fragments are used to construct small polymers that have a unit length λ monomer with (1) a free left end and a closed right end, (2) a free right end and a closed left end, or (3) both ends closed in cos sites.
Seasonality, division of labor, and dynamics of colony-level nutrient storage in the ant Pheidole morrisi

Nutritional provisioning is a critical component of life history strategies, and of particular interest in social insect colonies because of the role that division of labor plays in resource allocation. To explore the mechanisms that underlie colony nutritional strategies, I examined three populations of the ant Pheidole morrisi across a gradient of overwinter food scarcity over two seasons. P. morrisi colonies were found to employ amixed strategy of fat storage with regard to a longer overwinter period: members of both worker castes increase their percent-fat in a graded manner, while the proportion of a specialized subcaste of majors known as “repletes”, also increased within the colony. Geographic variation in other colony traits such as mean colony size, mean worker size, and minor/major caste ratio were also found, although not always in a manner clearly relating to fat storage. These results indicate that colony demography responds to seasonal fluctuations in food availability through behavioral alterations (increased fat stores and recruitment of replete workers) rather than physical alterations (changes in lean body sizes or caste ratio). The findings illustrate the dynamic role division of labor plays in the success of insect colonies confronting environmental variability.
Development of a Lumped-Parameter Occupant Injury Assessment Model for Vehicular Blast Effects Simulation

In this study, a lumped-parameter human body including lower leg in seated posture with a quarter-car model was developed for blast injury assessment simulation. To simulate the shock acceleration of the vehicle, mine blast analysis was conducted on a generic land vehicle crew compartment (sand box) structure. For the purpose of simulating human body dynamics, a physical model of lumped-parameter human body with a quarter car model was developed and implemented in multi-body dynamic simulation software. The injury criteria and tolerance levels for the biomechanical effects are discussed for each of the identified vulnerable body regions, such as the lower leg, the spine, and the neck. Passive seat and footrest damper devices were analytically evaluated to investigate their effectiveness for a seated occupant in a vehicle environment during a blast event. The seat damper has significant influence on the neck and the spine injury assessment values; however has less influence on the lower leg injury assessment value. For protecting the lower leg from injury, a separated footrest with a passive spring-damper system was more effective than the seat damper.
A fun-learning approach to programming: An adaptive Virtual Reality (VR) platform to teach programming to engineering students

This study explains the design and implementation of a Virtual Reality (VR) framework for `fun-based' interactive programming instruction in engineering education courses. Students continue to face several difficulties when learning programming [1] and the lack of efficient tools to overcome such difficulties can affect the students' motivation [2]. Over time, this creates a drastic and negative impact in their attitude towards `learning programming,' which is undesirable for student success in engineering education. To rectify this, a suitable approach that can motivate students needs to be developed to change students' mindset towards learning programming. Student motivation is considered imperative as it is directly influences a student's perseverance and dedication towards accomplishing an objective [3]. Rather than viewing programming courses as a means to complete coursework requirements, students should be made to realize the `power of programming.' Learning and gaining experience in computer programming necessarily involves the development of computational/critical thinking and problem solving skills. All these skills sharpen the minds of the students while simultaneously opening up multiple job prospects for them upon graduation. To this end, to facilitate interactive and fun-filled learning, this research employs a learner-centric, user-friendly Virtual Environment (VE) to teach programming concepts. In doing so, this research aims to make a paradigm shift in the `approach to teaching and learning programming.'
Public Support for the Supreme Court in the 1970s

In the 1960s, Murphy and Tanenhaus examined the linkages between public opinion and the U.S. Supreme Court. This article represents a new look at that question within the context of the 1970s, using national survey data. Four clusters of explanations are developed, based upon the previous literature, and tested, using trust in the Court as the dependent vanable. The two most important explanatory variables found are race and education, but race is declining as an explanation for variations in support for the Court.
Usage of data-encoded web maps with client side color rendering for combined data access, visualization, and modeling purposes

Current approaches to satellite observation data storage and distribution implement separate visualization and data access methodologies which often leads to the need in time consuming data ordering and coding for applications requiring both visual representation as well as data handling and modeling capabilities. We describe an approach we implemented for a data-encoded web map service based on storing numerical data within server map tiles and subsequent client side data manipulation and map color rendering. The approach relies on storing data using the lossless compression Portable Network Graphics (PNG) image data format which is natively supported by web-browsers allowing on-the-fly browser rendering and modification of the map tiles. The method is easy to implement using existing software libraries and has the advantage of easy client side map color modifications, as well as spatial subsetting with physical parameter range filtering. This method is demonstrated for the ASTER-GDEM elevation model and selected MODIS data products and represents an alternative to the currently used storage and data access methods. One additional benefit includes providing multiple levels of averaging due to the need in generating map tiles at varying resolutions for various map magnification levels. We suggest that such merged data and mapping approach may be a viable alternative to existing static storage and data access methods for a wide array of combined simulation, data access and visualization purposes.
Sequential intermediates in the pathway of intercompartmental transport in a cell-free system

Two-stage incubations and the selective inhibitory effects of N-ethylmaleimide have revealed three steps in the transport of the vesicular stomatitis viral glycoprotein (G protein) between compartments of the Golgi. These are "priming" of the donor membrane, making G protein available for transfer to the acceptor Golgi stack; "transfer" of G protein to the acceptor stack to form a prefusion complex in which G protein is still separate from the GlcNAc transferase; and "fusion," the steps that result in the delivery of G protein to the same cisternal membranes that contain the GlcNAc transferase. Electron microscopy shows that priming of the donor membrane is accompanied by the formation of a uniform population of small (60-80 nm diameter) vesicles that bud from the rims of the cisternae of the Golgi stacks. This suggests the working hypothesis that the above steps correspond to stages in the budding and fusion of transport vesicles.
Tillage, cover cropping, and poultry litter effects on selected soil chemical properties

Abstract Conservation tillage systems such as no-till with winter rye cover cropping change soil chemical properties, which affect crop growth and the environment. The objectives of this study were to investigate the effect of no-till and mulch-till systems, surface application of poultry litter, and winter rye (Secale cereale L.) cover crop on soil pH, soil organic matter (SOM), and N and P concentrations in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) plots. The study was done on a Decatur silt loam in north Alabama from 1996 to 1998. SOM under no-till and mulch-till systems in the 0–15 cm soil depth in November 1998 was 22 g kg−1 (P
Nucleus basalis (Ch4) and cortical cholinergic innervation in the human brain: Observations based on the distribution of acetylcholinesterase and choline acetyltransferase

The nucleus basalis (NB) of the human brain is a large, complex, and highly differentiated structure. Many of its neurons are magnocellular, hyperchromic, isodendritic, acetylcholinesterase-rich, and choline-acetyltransferase-positive. Concurrent histochemical and immunological staining demonstrated that all choline-acetyltransferase-positive NB neurons in the human brain also contain acetylcholinesterase enzyme activity. Only a small minority of acetylcholinesterase-rich magnocellular cell bodies in the NB failed to show choline acetyltransferase immunoreactivity. Sections that were counterstained for Nissl substance showed that 80-90% of all magnocellular neurons in the NB were choline-acetyltransferase-positive and therefore cholinergic. These characteristics, which are very similar to those of the NB in the monkey brain, justified the designation of these cholinergic neurons in the human brain as the Ch4 (or NB-Ch4) complex. On morphological grounds, the compact parts of the human NB-Ch4 complex were divided into distinct sectors which appeared to show a greater level of differentiation than in the monkey brain. In addition to the compact sectors, interstitial elements of NB Ch4 were embedded within adjacent fiber bundles. The putative cortical projections from NB-Ch4 were identified in the form of acetylcholinesterase-rich fibers. These fibers formed a dense plexus in all cortical regions but also displayed laminar and regional variations. Limbic and paralimbic areas had higher concentrations of these fibers than the immediately adjacent neocortical association areas. Alzheimer's disease was associated with a marked depletion of cortical acetylcholinesterase. Two cases of Alzheimer's disease with relatively selective NB-Ch4 cell loss supported the hypothesis that the corticopetal cholinergic pathways in the human brain may have a topographical organization similar to that in the monkey brain.
Volcanic hot spots on Io: Correlation with low‐albedo calderas

In the present investigation, it is shown that a one-to-one correspondence exists on Io between hot spots and features with normal albedos less than or equal to 0.3 (in the Voyager orange filter). It is pointed out that the hot spots are a manifestation of the prolific volcanic activity and heat flow of Io, widely believed to be due to dissipation of tidal energy resulting from the forward eccentricity of Io's orbit and the tides raised by Jupiter. All of the hot spots identified by the Voyager 1 infrared interferometric spectrometer (IRIS) correspond to relatively low-albedo features. An approach has been developed to identify hot spots not included in the IRIS inventory and to model their temperatures. The spectral reflectivities of the low-albedo features, extracted from the multispectral mosaics produced by Soderblom et al. (1985), are also presented, and compared to the laboratory spectra of a variety of candidate materials.
Correlates of Sex among the Aged: The NORC General Social Survey

The NORC General Social Survey provides a sufficient sample base to examine the correlates of sex among the aged. The data for the older groups are put in perspective by comparison with data for younger groups, and the analysis is reported in abbreviated form. A model for controlling for important background and experience variables is applied in a standard way.
Dephosphorylation of 40S ribosomal subunits by phosphoprotein phosphatase activity from rabbit reticulocytes.

Phosphoprotein phosphatase activities which remove phosphoryl groups from ribosomal protein have been partially purified from rabbit reticulocytes by chromatography on DEAE-cellulose. Two major peaks of phosphoprotein phosphatase activity were observed when 40S ribosomal subunits, phosphorylated in vitro with cyclic AMP-regulated protein kinases and (γ-32P)ATP, were used as substrate. The phosphatase activity eluting at 0.14 M KCl was characterized further using ribosomal subunits phosphorylated in situ by incubation of intact reticulocytes with radioactive inorganic phosphate. Phosphate covalently bound to 40S ribosomal subunits and 80S ribosomes was removed by the phosphatase activity. The enzyme was not active with phosphorylated proteins associated with 60S ribosomal subunits.
Physical Activity Disparities Between US-born and Immigrant Children by Maternal Region of Origin

We examined and compared patterns in physical activity participation for children of US-born and immigrant mothers from seven world geographic regions, and tested whether the physical activity differences were attenuated by socioeconomic status or maternal language proficiency. Using the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study-Kindergarten data (N = 18,850) we utilized logistic regression to predict adequate vigorous physical activity and participation in group and individual sports for kindergarten children. US-born children of US-born parents have significantly higher rates of physical activity compared to immigrant children. Children of Mexican, Southeast Asian, and Caribbean immigrants were especially unlikely to participate in sports. These disparities were not significantly attenuated by socioeconomic status, but accounting for language proficiency reduced some differences between the US-born and immigrant children, particularly for group sports participation. Researchers interested in improving the physical activity patterns of second-generation children should consider the relevance of language barriers in promoting healthy living.
ENTROPICALLY INDUCED EULER BUCKLING INSTABILITIES IN POLYMER CRYSTALS

Molecular simulations show that heating crystalline polyethylene leads to an entropically induced Euler buckling instability, associated with the softening of the long wavelength transverse acoustic vibrational modes propagating along the chain axis. This entropic effect is augmented by axial compressive stress, leading to a decrease in the instability temperature with applied stress. For zero or low compressive stresses, the instability will occur above the melting temperature and impose a maximum temperature for the superheated crystal; for high compressive stresses, the instability will occur below the melting temperature and trigger a transition to another solid structure.
The Humanities and Chaos Theory: A Response to Steenburg's “Chaos at the Marriage of Heaven and Hell”

In an article in the fall 1991 issue of the Harvard Theological Review, David Steenburg proposes “to consider the potential significance of chaos theory for modern culture.” This important issue has not received adequate attention because the understanding of math and the physical sciences necessary to be able to speak cogently about chaos theory can be intimidating for nonscientists. Those who are not scientists, however, have at their disposal the popular and effective summary of chaos theory by James Gleick. While Gleick's work is solid, it has led some to be captivated by chaos theory's fecund metaphorical terminology and elegant computer-aided graphical images. Although those images, particularly the logistic map, show striking instances of order hidden within chaotic systems, too often they are used to forward the thesis that there are other systems, ranging from modern literary theory to stock market fluctuations, that also house deep structure amid their apparent disorder. The result is, on occasion, analysis that is based only upon metaphor.
The effect of tip geometry on the mechanical performance of unused and reprocessed orthopaedic drill bits.

AbstractAlthough reprocessed drill bits have been in clinical use as a cost-saving measure, their performance has not been critically evaluated in comparison with the performance of unused drill bits. The effect of three commonly used reprocessing methods on the geometry and mechanical performance of 2.5 mm orthopaedic drill bits was investigated and compared with that for unused drill bits. Four mechanically significant drill parameters including chisel edge, chisel edge angle, point angle, and lip length of 36 drill bits in four groups were measured and compared. Group A included unused drill bits. Group B included drill bits reprocessed once by one company whereas group C included those reprocessed twice by the same method. Group D included drill bits reprocessed once by another company. For mechanical performance, a test set-up was developed in which the time of travel of the drill bits through layers of cortical and trabecular synthetic bone materials under constant compressive force were measured. T...
Tandem Catalyst System for Linear Low-Density Polyethylene with Short and Long Branching

A zirconium-based polymerization catalyst, Me2Si(η1-C29H36)(η1-N-tBu)ZrCl2·OEt2 (1), and a chromium-based oligomerization catalyst, [(tBuSCH2CH2)2NH]CrCl3 (2), in combination with methylaluminoxane...
Timing of synthesis and cellular localization of two conidiation-specific proteins of Neurospora crassa.

Abstract The process of conidiation in Neurospora crassa consists of a series of distinct developmental stages culminating in the formation of multinucleate asexual spores called macroconidia. Immunoblotting techniques were used to study the timing of synthesis and cellular localization of CON10 and CON13, the products of two genes that are expressed during conidiation but not during mycelial growth. Both proteins first appear about 8 hr into conidiation; CON10 disappears between 2 and 4 hr after germination. Within conidiating cultures, CON10 and CON13 proteins are localized in conidiophores, with little or no protein present in the underlying mycelium. Immunofluorescence analyses show that CON10 is evenly distributed throughout the cytoplasm of macroconidia. Synthesis of CON10 and CON13 occurs at a time when their specifying mRNAs first appear ( Hager and Yanofsky, Gene 96, 153–159, 1990 ; Sachs and Yanofsky, Dev. Biol. 148, 117–128, 1991 ), suggesting that regulation of synthesis is predominantly transcriptional.
Demonstrations of Frequency/Energy Relationships Using LEDs

The use of LEDs (light-emitting diodes) to demonstrate the relationship between frequency (or wavelength) and semiconductor energy level differences is described. LEDs can function as light detectors, and this ability is exploited to show the minimum light frequency needed to produce a voltage response in the LED. Light having higher energy (lower wavelength) than the detector LED bandgap energy produces a significant voltage response, whereas lower-energy light results in minimal response. The light sources can be other LEDs or a flashlight with colored filters. Alternatively, the voltage measured across an LED as it emits light under power can also be related to the LED bandgap energy, providing a somewhat more accurate estimate of the bandgap energy than that obtained from the LED detector mode. Although these demonstrations using LEDs are not technically the same as the classic photoelectric effect as presented in most freshman chemistry courses, they nevertheless illustrate the same relationships bet...
Alternative interpretation of sulphur isotope ratios in the McArthur lead-zinc-silver deposit

SMITH and Croxford1 have reported important new measurements of variations among the isotopes of sulphur in the enigmatic stratiform sulphide deposit at McArthur River, Northern Territory, Australia. The data place severe constraints on processes capable of forming the deposit, and Smith and Croxford interpret them to indicate a syn-sedi-mentary origin with sulphur supplied from two separate sources—one for pyrite and one for galena and sphalerite. We suggest that Smith and Croxford have misinterpreted several important aspects of their data and that they have thereby been led to erroneous conclusions. The isotopic data do not really support their preferred models of mineralisation. Rather, they support the kind of single-sulphur source model demonstrated for many other stratiform base-metal sulphide deposits, in which dissolution of pre-existing pyrite by a circulating, metal-rich but sulphur-poor brine is followed by deposition of base-metal sulphides. Brines of the kind capable of forming such deposits have been reported from the Salton Sea geothermal field2, from the Cheleken region in Russia3, in oil fields4 and in fluid inclusions5. The most complete elucidation of such a model is that by Brown6 for the White Pine deposit in Michigan but the applicability of the model to many deposits has been pointed out by White7 and others.
The United States and the Question of the Greco-Turkish War, 1919–1922

AbstractIn the post World War II era, the strain in the trilateral relation between the United States, Greece and Turkey is one of the most disquieting and vexatious elements to emerge from American foreign policy. The so-called southeastern flank of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is currently beset with tensions that threaten to impede its contributory role in NATO's overall defense strategy for southeastern Europe (if they have not already done so). In this political drama, the principal antagonists, Greece and Turkey, have a number of outstanding differences which on occasion have brought them to the precipice of war. As a result, the United States has intervened as the protagonist and consequently has become the recipient of the enmity of these two NATO allies for not recognizing their ‘special’ claims or interests. As in the characteristic classical Greek drama, the chorus of NATO partners offer a common chant: they are united in proclaiming that the current state of affairs seems to p...
Barometric and GPS altitude sensor fusion

The altitude of a moving vehicle as reported by GPS suffers from intermittent errors caused by temporary obstruction of the satellites by buildings, mountains, etc. Additionally, it is affected by systematic errors caused by multipath effects, ionospheric and tropospheric effects, and other hardware design limitations and natural factors. Atmospheric pressure, measured by a portable barometric sensor, could also be used to determine altitude, is not susceptible to problems caused by obstruction of satellites, and can provide reliable measurements outdoors even in urban and mountainous regions. In this paper, we propose an algorithm which improves accuracy and provides tighter confidence bounds of altitude measurements from a mobile phone (or any device equipped with GPS and barometric sensors) by means of sensor fusion techniques without the need for calibration. Our experiments have shown that the proposed algorithm provides more accurate measurements with tighter confidence bounds compared to using either of the two sensors, barometric or GPS, alone.
Variations in Hematocrit Values of Successive Blood Samples from Bluegill

Abstract Microhematocrit values of four 100-μl samples of blood drawn successively from the severed peduncle of bluegills declined 16% (range = 4-25%) from the first to the fourth tube. This significant decline is ascribed to the rapid passage of interstitial fluids into the blood stream of the hemorrhaging fish, and represents a source of variation which must be considered in establishing “normal” hematological values for fish.
The state and civil society in Pakistan

(1995). The state and civil society in Pakistan. Contemporary South Asia: Vol. 4, No. 3, pp. 229-254.
Cyanobacteria and earthy/musty compounds found in commercial catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) ponds in the Mississippi Delta and Mississippi--Alabama Blackland Prairie.

Abstract The compounds responsible for earthy and musty “off-flavors” in farm-raised channel catfish ( Ictalurus punctatus ) in the southeastern United States of America are geosmin and 2-methylisoborneol (MIB), respectively. These compounds are produced by certain species of cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) that grow in the aquaculture ponds. Previous research has focused on the species of cyanobacteria found in catfish ponds in west Mississippi (the leading region of catfish production in the USA), while the species responsible for earthy/musty off-flavors in catfish produced in the Mississippi–Alabama Blackland Prairie (MABP) region (second greatest region of catfish production) have not been described. We examined water samples from commercial catfish ponds in both regions to contrast the different types of cyanobacteria and assess the prevalence of geosmin and MIB. Results established that filamentous cyanobacteria are more common in west Mississippi compared to the MABP region. Also, the MIB-producing cyanobacterium Oscillatoria perornata is present in catfish ponds in both geographic locations, and geosmin is more prevalent in catfish ponds in the MABP region than in west Mississippi.
A clinician's guide to the eating disorders medicine cabinet

The majority of patients with bulimia report a history of having used over-thecounter drugs for purposes of weight control. Diet pills are quite commonly used, but usually at low dosages. Laxative abuse is also relatively common and poses significant risks in terms of fluid and electrolyte abnormalities, gastrointestinal bleeding and other systemic effects. Diuretic abuse and use of ipecac are less common but are also associated with serious health consequences. Ipecac is of particular concern because of the risk of cardiomyopathy.
Evaluation of the cytologic diagnosis of canine prostatic disorders

Background: Canine prostatic disease is commonly investigated using cytologic techniques, especially now that ultrasound-guided fine needle cell aspiration (US-ENA) is widely available. Few studies, however, have evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of prostatic cytology. Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of cytologic investigation of prostatic disease using US-FNA and other methods in comparison with histopathologic diagnosis. Methods: Cytologic and histopathologic specimens of prostate or paraprostatic tissue from 25 adult dogs were retrospectively evaluated. Cytologic samples were obtained by US-FNA, prostatic massage, or direct impression smears or aspirates of tissue at surgery. Histopathologic sections were obtained from tissue collected by biopsy or at necropsy. Results: Cytologic diagnoses were categorized as nondiagnostic (n = 2); cyst (n = 1); squamous metaplasia (n = 2); inflammation (n = 4); benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH; n = 5); inflammation and BPH (n = 3); inflammation, BPH, and neoplasia (n = 1); inflammation and neoplasia (n = 3); and neoplasia (n = 4). Cytologic diagnoses agreed with final histologic diagnoses in 20 of the 25 cases (80%). Of those samples collected by US-FNA, 75% were concordant. Four samples obtained by US-FNA and 1 sample obtained by prostatic massage and wash had discordant results. Conclusions: The results of this study suggest strong agreement between cytologic and histopathologic diagnoses for prostatic conditions. Discordance in results obtained by US-FNA usually was the result of the pathologic process rather than a failure to obtain an appropriate sample.
B→D*lν and B→Dlν form factors in staggered chiral perturbation theory

We calculate the B {yields} D and B {yields} D* form factors at zero recoil in Staggered Chiral Perturbation Theory. We consider heavy-light mesons in which only the light (u, d, or s) quark is staggered; current lattice simulations generally use a highly improved action such as the Fermilab or NRQCD action for the heavy (b or c) quark. We work to lowest order in the heavy quark expansion and to next-to-leading order in the chiral expansion. We present results for a partially quenched theory with three sea quarks in which there are no mass degeneracies (the ''1+1+1'' theory) and for a partially quenched theory in which the u and d sea quark masses are equal (the ''2+1'' theory). We also present results for full (2+1) QCD, along with a numerical estimate of the size of staggered discretization errors. Finally, we calculate the finite volume corrections to the form factors and estimate their numerical size in current lattice simulations.
Response of a DRAM to single-ion tracks of different heavy-ion species and stopping powers

Multiple-bit errors caused by single-ion tracks in a 256-kb DRAM fabricated by a bulk process were observed for different ion species and stopping power values. The results demonstrate the utility of this device for the evaluation of ion-beam uniformity and ion-beam-induced charge collection in IC devices. The data indicate that single-ion-induced charge transport results in multiple-bit error clusters due to lateral diffusion of excess minority carriers (electrons). Charge collection occurred from a depth of up to 35 mu m from te surface of the device. An apparent charge loss was observed for very heavy ions with a high stopping power (Au at 350 MeV). >
Dietary l-Arginine Supplementation during Gestation in Mice Enhances Reproductive Performance and Vegfr2 Transcription Activity in the Fetoplacental Unit

Regarded as one of the most versatile amino acids, arginine serves as a precursor for many molecules and has been reported to improve the reproductive performance of rats and pigs. To this end, we sought to determine if dietary Larginine alters fetoplacental vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2(Vegfr2) transcription activity. Eighteen wild-type FVB/N female mice were bred to homozygous FVB/N-Tg(Vegfr2-luc)-Xen male mice. Bred female mice received 1 of 2 experimental diets: one supplemented with 2.00% (wt:wt) L-arginine (+Arg) or 1 supplemented with 4.10% (wt:wt) alanine (+Ala) to serve as an isonitrogenous control for +Arg. In addition, 6 mice were fed a nonsupplemented control (Con) diet to normalize bioluminescent imaging data. All data were analyzed using ANOVA followed by Fisher’s least significant difference. Total feed intake did not differ between groups; however, mice in the +Arg group consumed more arginine (P , 0.05). Arginine supplementation increased weight gain during the latter one-third of gestation (d 12– 18), total litter size, number of pups born alive, number of placental attachment sites, litter birth weight, and litter weight of pups born alive but decreased the individual birth weights (P , 0.05). During d 12–18, arginine supplementation increased (P , 0.05) the mean total Vegfr2 transcription activity and Vegfr2 transcription activity corrected for fetoplacental mass. Moreover, mice in the +Arg group had an earlier rise in Vegfr2 transcription activity. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that the beneficial effect of dietary L-arginine supplementation on mammalian reproduction is associated with enhanced Vegfr2 transcription activity in fetoplacental tissues. J. Nutr. doi: 10.3945/jn.111.154823.
Death Due to Parathion? Exhumation of an Embalmed Body

(1968). Death Due to Parathion? Exhumation of an Embalmed Body. Clinical Toxicology: Vol. 1, No. 3, pp. 257-263.
Dosimetric influence of seed spacers and end-weld thickness for permanent prostate brachytherapy.

Abstract Purpose The aim of this study was to analyze the dosimetric influence of conventional spacers and a cobalt chloride complex contrast (C4) agent, a novel marker for MRI that can also serve as a seed spacer, adjacent to 103 Pd, 125 I, and 131 Cs sources for permanent prostate brachytherapy. Methods and Materials Monte Carlo methods for radiation transport were used to estimate the dosimetric influence of brachytherapy end-weld thicknesses and spacers near the three sources. Single-source assessments and volumetric conditions simulating prior patient treatments were computed. Volume–dose distributions were imported to a treatment planning system for dose–volume histogram analyses. Results Single-source assessment revealed that brachytherapy spacers primarily attenuated the dose distribution along the source long axis. The magnitude of the attenuation at 1 cm on the long axis ranged from −10% to −5% for conventional spacers and approximately −2% for C4 spacers, with the largest attenuation for 103 Pd. Spacer perturbation of dose distributions was less than manufacturing tolerances for brachytherapy sources as gleaned by an analysis of end-weld thicknesses. Volumetric Monte Carlo assessment demonstrated that TG-43 techniques overestimated calculated doses by approximately 2%. Specific dose–volume histogram metrics for prostate implants were not perturbed by inclusion of conventional or C4 spacers in clinical models. Conclusions Dosimetric perturbations of single-seed dose distributions by brachytherapy spacers exceeded 10% along the source long axes adjacent to the spacers. However, no dosimetric impact on volumetric parameters was noted for brachytherapy spacers adjacent to 103 Pd, 125 I, or 131 Cs sources in the context of permanent prostate brachytherapy implants.
Endothelial progenitor cells in infantile hemangioma

Infantile hemangioma is an endothelial tumor that grows rapidly after birth but slowly regresses during early childhood. Initial proliferation of hemangioma is characterized by clonal expansion of endothelial cells (ECs) and neovascularization. Here, we demonstrated mRNA encoding CD133-2, an important marker for endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), predominantly in proliferating but not involuting or involuted hemangioma. Progenitor cells coexpressing CD133 and CD34 were detected by flow cytometry in 11 of 12 proliferating hemangioma specimens from children 3 to 24 months of age. Furthermore, in 4 proliferating hemangiomas, we showed that 0.14% to 1.6% of CD45 nucleated cells were EPCs that coexpressed CD133 and the EC marker KDR. This finding is consistent with the presence of KDR immature ECs in proliferating hemangioma. Our results suggest that EPCs contribute to the early growth of hemangioma. To our knowledge, this is the first study to show direct evidence of EPCs in a human vascular tumor. (Blood. 2004;103:1373-1375)
Molecular cloning of cDNAs for auxin-induced mRNAs and developmental expression of the auxin-inducible genes.

By differential hybridization, two auxin-inducible cDNA clones (λSAR1 and λSAR2) have been isolated from a cDNA library constructed to poly(A)+ mRNA from auxin-treated strawberry receptacles. Both the clones have been used as probes to study the expression of the auxin-induced genes in pollinated and unpollinated fruits of various stages of development and in different organs. A high level of auxin-induced mRNAs is found in pollinated fruits as compared to unpollinated fruits of the same age, suggesting that the expression of the auxin-induced genes is developmentally regulated and the level of auxin-induced mRNAs is regulated by endogenous auxin. Furthermore, our data on the expression of λSAR1 and λSAR2 genes in pollinated and unpollinated fruits revealed a positive correlation between growth of strawberry fruit and the induction of mRNA corresponding to the λSAR1 and λSAR2 clones. Ethylene has no effect on the expression of the auxin-induced mRNAs. λSAR1 mRNA is not detected in other parts of strawberry plants whereas λSAR2 mRNA is present in roots. Furthermore, mRNA corresponding to λSAR1 and λSAR2 is not detected in other auxin-responsive plant systems such as pea epicotyls and bean explants.
Polytopic linear parameter-varying model of epileptiform activity

A novel abstract modeling approach for brain dynamics exhibiting epileptiform activity is proposed, and a seizure prediction algorithm based on this approach is presented. The model consists of several polytopes of parameters, each of which corresponds to a particular brain dynamics, and a seizure onset is predicted when real time-identified model parameters make a transition from an interictal polytope to an ictal polytope in a probabilistic sense. The seizure-prediction capability of the developed algorithm is assessed using simulated EEG signals.
AADL Fault Modeling and Analysis Within an ARP4761 Safety Assessment

SAE Standard Aerospace Recommended Practice (ARP) 4761, Guidelines and Methods for Conducting the Safety Assessment Process on Civil Airborne Systems and Equipment, provides general guidance on evaluating the safety aspects of a design and identifies processes, methods, and tools to support the evaluation. The Architecture Analysis and Design Language (AADL) Error Model Annex defines features to enable specification of risk mitigation methods in an architecture and assessments of system properties such as safety and reliability. This report describes how the AADL Error Model Annex supports the safety assessment processes and techniques presented in SAE Standard ARP4761. It provides a mapping between constructs of the AADL Error Model Annex and the assessment techniques identified in ARP4761 and presents examples of using the Error Model Annex with those techniques. The processes and techniques of the ARP4761 standard that this report addresses are the Functional Hazard Assessment, Preliminary System Safety Assessment, System Safety Assessment, Fault Tree Analysis, Failure Modes and Effects Analysis, Markov Analysis, and Dependence Diagrams, also referred to as Reliability Block Diagrams.
Characteristics of our neighboring A-stars

We have a project, under the aegis of the Nearby Stars (NStars)/Space Interferometry Mission Preparatory Science Program to obtain the spectra, the spectral types, and, where feasible, the basic physical parameters for the 3600 dwarf and giant stars earlier than M0 within 40 parsecs of the Sun. There are 66 B-to-early-F stars among the first 664 stars analyzed in the Northern hemisphere, and 38 of the same among a similar number of Southern hemisphere stars. With these we can start looking at the statistics of Ap, Am, λBootis, and other A-type stars for a volume-limited sample, and we can find out just how well we know our neighbors. The project’s data are available on our website, http://stellar.phys.appstate.edu
Fine needle aspiration of metastatic prostate carcinoma simulating a primary adrenal cortical neoplasm: A case report and review of the literature

Adrenal metastases usually occur in prostate cancer patients with widespread bone and visceral disease. Autopsy studies have shown that adrenal metastases may be found in up to 23% of these patients. However, the finding of an isolated adrenal metastasis without the involvement of other organs in a patient with prostate cancer is exceedingly rare. Thus, it may cause a diagnostic dilemma on FNA cytology. We report a patient with a history of prostate cancer, status post radiation, and hormonal therapy 4 years before, who presented with a new, single adrenal mass on abdominal imaging studies. The ultrasound-guided FNA cytology of the adrenal mass revealed cytomorphological features that were suggestive of a primary adrenal cortical neoplasm, but overlapped with those of a prostate metastasis. To our knowledge, FNA findings of metastatic prostate cancer simulating an adrenal cortical neoplasm have not been previously reported in the English literature. The purpose of our study is to discuss the differential diagnosis of these entities. The accurate diagnosis is important because of different prognosis and treatment implications for the various diseases. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2010. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.