cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Molecular and Transcriptional Regulation of Megakaryocyte Differentiation

Megakaryocytes, among the rarest of hematopoietic cells, serve the essential function of producing numerous platelets. Genetic studies have recently provided rich insights into the molecular and transcriptional regulation of megakaryocyte differentiation and thrombopoiesis. Three transcription factors, GATA-1, FOG-1, and NF-E2, are essential regulators of distinct stages in megakaryocyte differentiation, extending from the birth of early committed progenitors to the final step of platelet release; a fourth factor, Fli-1, likely also plays an important role. The putative transcriptional targets of these regulators, including the NF-E2-dependent hematopoietic-specific beta-tubulin isoform beta1, deepen our understanding of molecular mechanisms in platelet biogenesis. The study of rare syndromes of inherited thrombocytopenia in mice and man has also refined the emerging picture of megakaryocyte maturation. Synthesis of platelet-specific organelles is mediated by a variety of regulators of intracellular vesicle membrane fusion, and platelet release is coordinated through extensive and dynamic reorganization of the actin and microtubule cytoskeletons. As in other aspects of hematopoiesis, characterization of recurrent chromosomal translocations in human leukemias provides an added dimension to the molecular underpinnings of megakaryocyte differentiation. Long regarded as a mysterious cell, the megakaryocyte is thus yielding many of its secrets, and mechanisms of thrombopoiesis are becoming clearer. Although this review focuses on transcriptional control mechanisms, it also discusses recent advances in broader consideration of the birth of platelets.
Surgically preventable site of local recurrence of testicular carcinoma

We report on a patient with a mixed germ cell testicular carcinoma in whom recurrence developed at the site of retained spermatic cord elements subsequent to retroperitoneal lymph node dissection. This site for recurrence can be prevented by total removal of the spermatic cord. Recurrence at this site often involves the peritoneum thus significantly reducing the survival rate. It is our policy to attach a long length of nonabsorbable suture marker material to the most proximal aspect of the spermatic cord when performing a radical inguinal orchiectomy. Such a marker facilitates the removal of the entire remaining cord if a retroperitoneal node dissection is performed.
Subcutaneous terbutaline use in CKD to reduce potassium concentrations

Background: Acute hyperkalemia is a frequent and potentially life-threatening medical problem in patients on maintenance hemodialysis therapy. β-Adrenergic receptor (βAR) stimulation causes potassium cellular influx and a decline in plasma potassium concentrations. Therefore, βAR agonists are used in the treatment of patients with hyperkalemia. The goal of this study is to evaluate the utility of weight-based subcutaneous terbutaline dosing to reduce plasma potassium concentrations in a group of subjects with chronic kidney disease (CKD) requiring hemodialysis. Methods: Fourteen subjects with CKD receiving long-term hemodialysis were administered terbutaline, 7 μg/kg, subcutaneously. Heart rate measurements and blood samples for potassium concentration determinations were made serially for 420 minutes. Effects of terbutaline on heart rate and potassium responses were determined in each subject. Results: Terbutaline significantly reduced plasma potassium concentrations and significantly increased heart rates during the time course of the study ( P P
Antithrombotic agents in cerebral ischemia

Abstract The choice of antithrombotic agent in cerebral ischemia depends on the pathogenesis: thrombosis, embolism, or hemorrhage. Antiplatelet agents are considered most beneficial in thrombotic stroke, anticoagulants are most effective in cardioembolic stroke aantithrombotic agents are generally contraindicated in hemorrhagic stroke. A meta-analysis of 18 trials documented a 23% reduction in stroke risk with antiplatelet agents; aspirin is typically the antiplatelet agent of choice for stroke prevention. There are no definitive data regarding the optimal aspirin dose for stroke prevention and this issue remains controversial. Ticlopidine is the most effective anti-platelet agent, but its adverse effect profile restricts its use. Anticoagulants are highly effective for preventing cardioembolic stroke, but their effectiveness in non-cardioembolic stroke is uncertain because of lack of trial data. Results of the ongoing Warfarin/Aspirin Recurrent Stroke Study (warfarin [INR 1.8-2.8] vs aspirin [325 mg/day]) may clarify this issue. There is renewed interest in thrombolytics because recent data indicate that reperfusion within a few hours of stroke onset appears to be effective in preventing neutronal damage. In addition, when given within 6 hours of stroke onset, thrombolytics appear to be relatively safe. Several direct thrombin inhibitors are being evaluated. Experimentally, hirudin, hirulog, d -Phe- l -Pro- l -Arg-CH 2 Cl (PPACK), and argatroban are clearly more effective than heparin in inhibiting platelet deposition and thrombus formation, and also show promise in preventing reocclusion after thrombolysis for both experimental thrombotic and embolic stroke. However, the risk of hemorrhage in patients with cerebrovascular disease is unknown for these agents. New antiplatelet agents, most of which inhibit the platelet llb/llla receptor, have also shown a significant reduction in ischemic complications in experimental thrombosis models.
Interception of real and apparent motion targets: psychophysics in humans and monkeys.

Human subjects and monkeys intercepted real (RM) and apparent (AM) moving targets that traveled through a low contrast circular path. The subjects intercepted the targets at 6 o'clock by applying a net force pulse on a semi-isometric joystick which controlled a cursor on the screen. Eight target speeds (180–560°/s) were used. The starting points of the moving target were systematically placed around the circle in order to determine the effect of the target travel time and velocity on the decision to initiate the interception movement and on the interception accuracy. It was found that the probability of interception in the first revolution varied as a function of the target travel time, which followed an S-shaped psychometric curve. The minimum processing time (MPT) was defined as the target travel that corresponded to a 75% probability of interception in the first revolution on the psychometric curve. The MPT decreased slightly as a function of target speed and was larger in AM than RM. In addition, the interception accuracy increased when the target travel time was above the MPT, and the angular error was smaller in RM than in AM. Finally, the interception movement was initiated at different target locations and time-to-contacts, depending on the target speed and the motion condition. Interestingly, similar findings were observed in human subjects and monkeys. These results suggest that the neural mechanisms engaged in extracting the visual motion information and in the implementation of the response are more efficient during RM than AM, and that such mechanisms need less processing time when the target is moving faster.
Developing psychophysiological profiles for monitoring stress

Training prepares first responders for disasters including terrorist attacks. To train effectively it should be as realistic as possible and elicit the stress response. We are developing a profile that will be a marker for intensity of stress as well as differentiate stress from exertion. We have monitored stress during several training scenarios for different groups including civilian SWAT teams and the military. In addition, we can monitor stress to exposure to nonlethal weapons. We have monitored stress during exposure to blunt impact using a paintball paradigm. We have measured salivary substances (such as cortisol and DHEA [markers for the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis]) and amylase [marker for the sympathetic branch of the autonomic nervous system], physiological parameters (such as activity and heart rate), and neuropsychological assessment tools (such as Borg's perceived exertion scale, Spielberger's STAI and Thayer's ADC). With these neuroendocrine, physiological and behavioral indices in hand, we are poised to examine stress induction in preparedness in trainees.
Imaging of Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer is a heterogeneous and frequently multifocal disease with a variable clinical course. The management of bladder cancer is therefore challenging and complicated. CT and MR imaging have replaced the traditional excretory urography and are emerging as the imaging modalities of choice for work-up of patients who have bladder cancer. Imaging provides essential diagnostic information for detection, staging, and post-treatment follow-up of bladder cancer.
Echocardiographic images of a melody valve in the tricuspid position.

(Echocardiography 2014;31:E98–E100)Key words: Melody valve, tricuspid valve, transesophageal echocardiography, intra-cardiac echocardi-ography, three-dimensional echocardiographyA 5-year-old male, weighing 16.1 kg, with adiagnosis of interrupted aortic arch (IAA) type Band a large ventricular septal defect (VSD) pre-sented with severe bioprosthetic tricuspid valveregurgitation and mild stenosis. His medical his-tory was signiﬁcant for IAA repair and main pul-monary artery (MPA) banding in the neonatalperiod. He had a signiﬁcant residual coarctationand thus was taken back at 4 months of agefor Gore-tex patch aortoplasty. At 10 months ofage, he underwent VSD closure and MPA de-banding. This operation was complicated bycomplete heart block and an epicardial pace-maker system was placed. He subsequentlydeveloped a ﬂailed tricuspid valve leaﬂet thatwas unable to be repaired; therefore, a 19-mmaortic tissue valve was placed in the tricuspidposition at 18 months of age. This valve even-tually became incompetent and a 23-mm aortictissue valve was placed in the tricuspid positionat 26 months of age. Follow-up echocardio-grams over time revealed worsening tricuspidregurgitation. Clinically, he had decreasingexercise tolerance despite being treated withdigoxin, enalapril, furosemide, and spironolac-tone. It was felt that alleviating his tricuspidregurgitation would improve his symptoms;therefore, he was referred for possible percuta-neous correction of his tricuspid valve regurgita-tion.In the catheterization laboratory, an 8 Frenchintra-cardiac echocardiography (ICE) catheterwas inserted into the right femoral vein (Acuso-nAcuNav, Siemens, Mountain View, CA, USA).Transesophageal echocardiographic (TEE) 2Dand 3D images (iE33; Philips, Amsterdam, The
Web-based treatment for infertility-related psychological distress

Infertility has been associated with stigma and negative psychosocial functioning. However, only a small proportion of this population actually receives care. Fertility patients predominantly use the Internet for information gathering, social support, and assistance with decision-making; yet, available web resources are unreliable sources of mental health care. Web-based alternatives also have the potential to assist with intervention access difficulties and may be of significant lower cost. This study evaluated the efficacy of a web-based approach to providing a cognitive behavioral intervention with 31 infertile women seeking medical reproductive technologies. Following randomized assignment, participants using the web-based intervention were compared with those in a wait-list control condition on general and infertility-related psychological stress measures. Results were mixed regarding intervention efficacy. Significant declines in general stress were evidenced in the experimental group compared with a wait-list control group. However, website access did not result in statistically significant improvements on a measure of infertility-specific stress. These findings add to the literature on psychological interventions for women experiencing fertility problems. Moreover, despite the widespread use of the Internet by this population, the present study is one of the first to investigate the usefulness of the Internet to attenuate stress in this population. Preliminary results suggest general stress may be significantly reduced in infertile women using an online cognitive behavioral approach.
Patterns of Aggressive Behavior in Experimentally Created “Social Climates”

(1939). Patterns of Aggressive Behavior in Experimentally Created “Social Climates”. The Journal of Social Psychology: Vol. 10, No. 2, pp. 269-299.
Marital therapy and spouse-involved treatment with alcoholic patients

The question of what is an optimal focus on relationship and individual issues is a central one for marital and spouse-involved treatment with alcoholic subjects. The major approaches in this area differ sharply on this point. The popular but untested family disease approach emphasizes the individual well being of the non-alcoholic spouse or family member with relatively little attention to the alcoholic patient's drinking or to the couple's relationship. The family systems approach, which also has not been researched to any degree, combines work on the drinking problem and on the couple relationship. The relatively well researched, and as yet infrequently used, behavioral marital therapy (BMT) methods emphasize the relationship to a greater degree than the other approaches. Only future research can determine whether the emphasis on the couple relationship in BMT needs to be balanced with a greater focus on individual issues for some or most alcoholic subjects and their spouses.
The effect of ionizing radiation on mobile ion current peaks in MOS capacitors

MOS capacitors were examined for sodium ion concentrations before and after radiation using the high-temperature voltage ramp technique. The radiation caused a field-dependent lateral shift of the Na+displacement current peak along the voltage axis. An explanation is suggested based upon lateral nonuniformities and image forces.
Nuances of Metropolitan Cooperative Networks

In their article “Administrators’ and Elected Offi cials’ Collaboration Networks: Selecting Partners to Reduce Risk in Economic Development,” Richard C. Feiock, In Won Lee, and Hyung Jun Park address a central question in governance theory: what determines the participation and design of voluntary associations (network relationships) within metropolitan arenas? More specifi cally, the authors examine how incentives and risk aversion infl uence association and how network structure infl uences results. Th e authors also explore whether network interactions among elected offi cials are diff erent from those of appointed administrators. Th e authors rightly found their research by quoting the work of H. George Frederickson: “Public administrators practice conjunction with their professional counterparts out of a deep understanding that many public problems can only be dealt with eff ectively through jurisdictional cooperation, and out of a strong sense of jurisdictional interdependence” (2002, 5–6).
Physostigmine‐induced myoclonus in Alzheimer's disease

Physostigmine caused myoclonus in two patients with Alzheimer's disease during a clinical trial. Neither patient had myoclonus before or after physostigmine treatment. We hypothesize that physostigmine reduced the sensitivity of the remaining muscarinic receptors in these two patients, altering the interaction between cholinergic and either serotoninergic or dopaminergic neurotransmitter systems.
GaS-GaSe-GaTe phase diagram

Physicochemical interactions in the GaS-GaSe-GaTe system were studied by differential thermal analysis, X-ray powder diffraction, and microhardness measurements. Phase diagrams for the GaTe-GaS0.75Se0.25 non-quasi-binary polytherm and the GaS-GaSe0.5Te0.5 quasi-binary polytherm are given. The GaS-GaSe-GaTe system is triangulated into two ternary subsystems and characterized by two ternary eutectic invariant points.
Metabolic rate and body composition of Pima Indian and Caucasian children.

Since a low metabolic rate (for a given body size and body composition) is a risk factor for body weight gain and obesity is prevalent among Pima Indians, we have tested whether Pima Indian children have a low resting metabolic rate (RMR) as compared to Caucasian children. Body composition (bioelectrical resistance) and RMR were measured in 43 Pima Indian children (22 male/21 female, mean +/- s.d. 9.9 +/- 1.1 years) and 42 Caucasian children (21 male/21 female, 9.7 +/- 1.2 years). Pima children were taller (143 +/- 9 vs. 137 +/- 8 cm, P less than 0.001), heavier (48.6 +/- 15.8 vs. 32.9 +/- 7.8 kg, P less than 0.001) and fatter (39 +/- 10 vs. 24 +/- 7% fat, P less than 0.001) than Caucasians. Absolute values of RMR were higher in Pimas than in Caucasians (6234 +/- 1201 vs. 5171 +/- 715 kJ/day, P less than 0.001), but similar when adjusted for differences in body size, body composition and sex. Contrary to our hypothesis, we did not find a decreased RMR in Pima children when compared to Caucasian children. Therefore, the high prevalence of obesity in Pima children at age 10 suggests that excess energy intake and/or low levels of physical activity might be the major aetiological factor. However, this study does not exclude the possibility that a low metabolic rate might be a predisposing factor at an earlier age.
pH-Sensitive hemolysis by random copolymers of alkyl acrylates and acrylic acid

We have been designing and synthesizing synthetic polymers that mimic viral fusogenic peptides, which contain peptide residues having alkyl groups and carboxyl groups. We have synthesized two different types of such polymers, and their abilities to hemolyse red blood cells at pH 7.4 and 5.5 are compared here. The polymers are poly(2-alkylacrylic acid)s such as poly(2-propylacrylic acid), and random copolymers of poly(alkyl acrylate-co-acrylic acid) where the alkyl group is propyl or butyl. We have found that the poly(2-alkylacrylic acid)s such as poly(2-propylacrylic acid) are significantly more hemolytic at acidic pH than the random copolymers of equivalent propyl and carboxyl contents.
Adaptive textural segmentation of medical images

A number of important problems in medical imaging can be described as segmentation problems. Previous fractal-based image segmentation algorithms have used either the local fractal dimension alone or the local fractal dimension and the corresponding image intensity as features for subsequent pattern recognition algorithms. An image segmentation algorithm that utilized the local fractal dimension, image intensity, and the correlation coefficient of the local fractal dimension regression analysis computation, to produce a three-dimension feature space that was partitioned to identify specific pixels of dental radiographs as being either bone, teeth, or a boundary between bone and teeth also has been reported. In this work we formulated the segmentation process as a configurational optimization problem and discuss the application of simulated annealing optimization methods to the solution of this specific optimization problem. The configurational optimization method allows information about both, the degree of correspondence between a candidate segment and an assumed textural model, and morphological information about the candidate segment to be used in the segmentation process. To apply this configurational optimization technique with a fractal textural model however, requires the estimation of the fractal dimension of an irregularly shaped candidate segment. The potential utility of a discrete Gerchberg-Papoulis bandlimited extrapolation algorithm to the estimation of the fractal dimension of an irregularly shaped candidate segment is also discussed.
The Furniture of Frank Furness

Frank Furness (1839–1912) was one of Philadelphia's leading architects of the nineteenth century. Between 1867 and 1912, Furness and his office produced more than 400 known works, among which were some of Philadelphia's most important monuments. Although many of Furness' buildings are no longer extant, the few which remain, such as the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and the soon-to-be restored Furness Library at the University of Pennsylvania, have been preserved as precious artifacts of Philadelphia's vital history. Among these treasures of Furness designs are a desk and chair, and a bedroom suite in the Philadelphia Museum of Art collection. Along with the buildings, these pieces of furniture are documents of an extraordinary artistic talent, this paper describes the origins of Furness' furniture designs and his method of composition.
Indications du traitement chirurgical dans l’endobrachyœsophage

La chirurgie anti-reflux est indiquee chez les porteurs d’un endobrachyœsophage uniquement apres echec du traitement medical car le traitement chirurgical ne procure, ni une regression complete de l’epithelium metaplasique, ni une prevention du developpement ulterieur de la dysplasie et/ou de l’adenocarcinome. L’endobrachyœsophage avec stenose doit etre traite par dilatations ou en cas d’echec, par chirurgie anti-reflux associee a une dilatation per-operatoire. Les stenoses resistantes aux dilatations justifient la resection avec reconstruction appropriee concue en vue de prevenir le reflux acide. Les ulceres de Barrett peuvent, dans la majorite des cas, etre traites avec succes par les moyens medicaux. La chirurgie anti-reflux est efficace lorsque le traitement medical echoue. Les complications telles que les hemorragies massives ou la perforation, necessitent indiscutablement un traitement chirurgical. L’œsophago-gastrectomie est recommandee pour les patients dont les biopsies demontrent une dysplasie de haut degre et/ou un carcinome in situ, de meme qu’en cas de cancer invasif.
High-performance, power-aware distributed computing for scientific applications

The PowerPack framework enables distributed systems to profile, analyze, and conserve energy in scientific applications using dynamic voltage scaling. For one common benchmark, the framework achieves more than 30 percent energy savings with minimal performance impact.
Pigeons and humans are more sensitive to nonaccidental than to metric changes in visual objects.

Humans and macaques are more sensitive to differences in nonaccidental image properties, such as straight vs. curved contours, than to differences in metric properties, such as degree of curvature [Biederman, I., Bar, M., 1999. One-shot viewpoint invariance in matching novel objects. Vis. Res. 39, 2885–2899; Kayaert, G., Biederman, I., Vogels, R., 2003. Shape tuning in macaque inferior temporal cortex. J. Neurosci. 23, 3016–3027; Kayaert, G., Biederman, I., Vogels, R., 2005. Representation of regular and irregular shapes in macaque inferotemporal cortex. Cereb. Cortex 15, 1308–1321]. This differential sensitivity allows facile recognition when the object is viewed at an orientation in depth not previously experienced. In Experiment 1, we trained pigeons to discriminate grayscale, shaded images of four shapes. Pigeons made more confusion errors to shapes that shared more nonaccidental properties. Although the images in that experiment were not well controlled for incidental changes in metric properties, the same results were apparent with better controlled stimuli in Experiment 2: pigeons trained to discriminate a target shape from a metrically changed shape and a nonaccidentally changed shape committed more confusion errors to the metrically changed shape, suggesting that they perceived it to be more similar to the target shape. Humans trained with similar stimuli and procedure exhibited the same tendency to make more errors to the metrically changed shape. These results document the greater saliency of nonaccidental differences for shape recognition and discrimination in a non-primate species and suggest that nonaccidental sensitivity may be characteristic of all shape-discriminating species.
Open complex formation by Escherichia coli RNA polymerase: the mechanism of polymerase‐induced strand separation of double helical DNA

Summary Escherichia coli RNA polymerase is able to site-specifically melt 12 bp of promoter DNA at temperatures far below those normally associated with DNA melting. Here we consider several models to explain how RNA polymerase destabilizes duplex DNA. One popular model proposes that upon binding to the promoter, RNA polymerase untwists the spacer DNA between the –10 and –35 regions, which results in a destabilization of the –10 region at a TA base step where melting initiates. Promoter untwisting may result, in part, from extensive wrapping of the DNA around RNA polymerase. Formation of the strand-separated open complex appears to be facilitated by specific protein-DNA interactions which occur predominantly on the non-template strand. Recent evidence suggests that these include important contacts with Sigma factor region 2.3, which we propose binds the displaced single strand of DNA.
Developments in spontaneous imbibition and possibilities for future work

Abstract Spontaneous imbibition controls many processes of practical importance. The subject is undergoing rapid growth in terms of the number of publications. This paper is a selective review of the literature which concentrates on the last ten years or so but also highlights, as necessary, earlier work. Insight into the mechanism of spontaneous imbibition is provided through consideration of the behavior of strongly wetted uniform tubes of any cross-section. The significance of cross-flow on the mechanism of advance of interfaces in tubes is related to imbibition in much more complex pore spaces. Details of the mechanism of imbibition by rocks and correlation of data for very strongly wetted conditions are discussed with respect to the numerous variables. Correlation of spontaneous imbibition data for a wide range of viscosity ratios demonstrates unequivocally that the operative relative permeabilities during counter current imbibition are not unique as is commonly assumed. They depend on viscosity ratio. This dependence points to the limitations of analytic models of spontaneous imbibition that also include the choice of specific boundary conditions at the open face. Experiments in which both the wetting and non-wetting phase are located at separate areas of the rock face demonstrate simultaneous co- and counter-current imbibition. This new configuration offers certain interpretive advantages, especially with respect to estimating operative relative permeabilities. The effective capillary pressure at the imbibition front drives the imbibition process. Imbibition is opposed by viscous resistance and the capillary back-pressure at the open face. Modeling advance of the imbibition front as a leaky piston gives agreement with experimental data for a range of scenarios. The piston model provides a consistent and more easily understood mechanistic account of frontal behavior than current network models. Experiment and theory for examples of when imbibition rate is and is not proportional to square root of time are explained. The predictive capability often claimed for network modeling with respect to spontaneous imbibition for very strongly wetted and other wetting states is questioned. Network modeling is now commonly tied to micro-CT images of small rock samples. Spontaneous imbibition is fundamentally a dynamic process and meaningful progress depends on it being modeled as such. There is a trend within the modeling community of reaching questionable conclusions based on so called quasistatic mechanisms while under-utilizing the versatility and predictive capabilities of network modeling with respect to dynamic processes. Topics for further investigations of spontaneous imbibition are suggested. They include several opportunities for testing network models against experimental data.
Effect of Temperature on the Low-velocity Impact Behavior of Composite Sandwich Panels:

Composite sandwich panels constructed from glass-fiber-reinforced facesheets surrounding both foam-filled and nonfilled honeycomb cores are impacted using a drop-weight impactor at three energy lev...
Power, Sex, and Violence: A Psychological Reconstruction of the 20th Century and an Intellectual Agenda for Political Psychology

Power, sex, and violence are three themes that characterize a good deal of 20th-century experience. Connections among these themes can be demonstrated through archival and field studies and by laboratory experiments, in the core disciplines of political psychology as well as in literature and art. Understanding and explaining this power-sex-violence fusion is an urgent theoretical and practical imperative. Two tasks are especially critical: understanding the nature of power-striving and how it might be tempered, and understanding how and why people construct "differences" among themselves. With its broad interdisciplinary tradition, its variety of traditional and innovative methods, and its links to the real world of human affairs, political psychology is well placed to assume this intellectual agenda. Language: en
Identification of genes associated with cold acclimation in blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) using a subtractive hybridization approach

Abstract Enhanced cold tolerance, including tolerance to winter freezing and spring frosts, is needed for genetic improvement of current highbush blueberry ( Vaccinium corymbosum L.) cultivars. To gain a better understanding of changes in gene expression associated with development of cold tolerance in blueberry and other woody perennials, forward and reverse subtracted cDNA libraries were prepared in such a way to enrich for transcripts that are expressed at higher levels in dormant blueberry flower buds at 400 h and at 0 h of low temperature exposure, respectively. Of the clones picked and single-pass sequenced, 503 clones from the forward subtracted library and 167 clones from the reverse subtracted library had inserts and yielded high quality sequences; and of these, 291 (57.9%) and 51 (31.0%), respectively, were assigned putative identities from BLAST searches of GenBank. From contig analyses to cluster genes of like or identical sequences, 275 unigenes (unique clones) from the forward subtracted library and 99 unigenes from the reverse subtracted library were obtained. Many interesting cold and light-stress related genes were identified from the forward subtracted library and several drought-stress related genes were identified from the reverse subtracted library. Many genes, not previously characterized from blueberry or other woody perennials, encoding putative transcription factors and proteins related to signal transduction were identified from both the forward and reverse subtracted libraries. Eleven genes of interest (six from the forward subtracted library and five from the reverse subtracted library) were selected and their expression was analyzed in floral buds by quantitative real-time RT-PCR over a time course from ∼0 to 1200 h of low temperature exposure. Expression profiles validated the quality of the libraries.
Acquisition of modified American Sign Language by a mute autistic child

An attempt was made to teach a modified version of American Sign Language to mute 5-year-old boy who had been diagnosed autistic and who had a Merrill-Palmer IQ of 65. Previous attempts to teach imitative spoken language had failed, and baseline data indicated that the child's signing vocabulary was also nonexistent. Data were collected during 20 structured sessions involving presentation of stimuli, prompting and manual guidance when necessary, and reinforcement. Continuous use of signs as communication in class and at home was emphasized. The child had mastered 12 signs at the end of the study. Spontaneous signing frequency as recorded by parents and teachers during several 48 hour periods rose from 15 to 42 emitted signs over the 3 months of the study. The child made 6 months' developmental progress during this time, as measured by a sign-language adaptation of the Alpern-Boll Communication Scale. However, the child made no apparent progress in acquiring spoken language.
Nonlinear phase contrast imaging in neuronal tissue

We demonstrate nonlinear phase contrast imaging in highly scattering media using rapid femtosecond pulse shaping of mode-locked laser pulses. We will also discuss potential applications of this technique for intrinsic functional neuronal imaging.
Radionuclide Scanning Combined with MR Diffusion Weighted Imaging Investigation of Apoptosis in Neonatal Rabbit HIE • 1861

Introduction: Annexin V is an endogenous protein which binds to phosphatydylserine that is selectively expressed on the surface of apoptotic cells. Apoptosis has been seen in neonatal rat models of hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). Experimental HIE in neonatal rabbits results in areas of focally decreased apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), indicating cytotoxic edema, primarily in ipsilateral cortical tissue. These areas of decreased ADC return to above baseline values post hypoxia. We have used radionuclide scanning (technetium labeled annexin V, Tc-AV) and MR diffusion imaging (ADC mapping) in the neonatal rabbit model to investigate possible apoptotic cell death associated with these reversible ADC changes.
Extinction coefficients and midpoint potentials of cytochrome c6 from the cyanobacteria Arthrospira maxima, Microcystis aeruginosa, and Synechocystis 6803

Abstract Cytochrome c 6 is a soluble heme protein that serves as a photosynthetic electron transport component in cyanobacteria and algae, carrying electrons from the cytochrome bf complex to photosystem I. The rapid accumulation of cytochrome c 6 sequence data from a wide range of species, combined with significant advances in determining high resolution three-dimensional structures, provides a powerful database for investigating the relationship between structure and function. The fact that the gene encoding cytochrome c 6 can be readily modified in a number of species adds to the usefulness of cytochrome c 6 as a tool for comparative analysis. Efforts to relate cytochrome c 6 sequence information to structure, and structural information to function depend on knowledge of the physical and thermodynamic properties of the cytochrome from different species. To this end we have determined the optical extinction coefficient, the oxidation/reduction midpoint potential, and the pH dependence of the midpoint potential of cytochrome c 6 isolated from three cyanobacteria, Arthrospira maxima , Microcystis aeruginosa , and Synechocystis 6803.
Synthesis rates and binding kinetics of matrix products in engineered cartilage constructs using chondrocyte-seeded agarose gels

Abstract Large-sized cartilage constructs suffer from inhomogeneous extracellular matrix deposition due to insufficient nutrient availability. Computational models of nutrient consumption and tissue growth can be utilized as an efficient alternative to experimental trials to optimize the culture of large constructs; models require system-specific growth and consumption parameters. To inform models of the [bovine chondrocyte]−[agarose gel] system, total synthesis rate (matrix accumulation rate+matrix release rate) and matrix retention fractions of glycosaminoglycans (GAG), collagen, and cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) were measured either in the presence (continuous or transient) or absence of TGF-β3 supplementation. TGF-β3's influences on pyridinoline content and mechanical properties were also measured. Reversible binding kinetic parameters were characterized using computational models. Based on our recent nutrient supplementation work, we measured glucose consumption and critical glucose concentration for tissue growth to computationally simulate the culture of a human patella-sized tissue construct, reproducing the experiment of Hung et al. (2003) . Transient TGF-β3 produced the highest GAG synthesis rate, highest GAG retention ratio, and the highest binding affinity; collagen synthesis was elevated in TGF-β3 supplementation groups over control, with the highest binding affinity observed in the transient supplementation group; both COMP synthesis and retention were lower than those for GAG and collagen. These results informed the modeling of GAG deposition within a large patella construct; this computational example was similar to the previous experimental results without further adjustments to modeling parameters. These results suggest that these nutrient consumption and matrix synthesis models are an attractive alternative for optimizing the culture of large-sized constructs.
HIGH-FREQUENCY MODULATION OF ION-ACOUSTIC WAVES.

A large amplitude, high‐frequency electromagnetic oscillation is impressed on a nonrelativistic, collisionless plasma from an external source. The frequency is chosen to be far from the plasma frequency (in fact, lower). The resulting electron velocity distribution function strongly modifies the propagation of ion‐acoustic waves parallel to the oscillating electric field. The complex frequency is calculated numerically.
The role of phospholipases and phosphoIipid-derived signals in cell activation

The complexity of receptor-regulated breakdown and modification of phospholipids continues to grow. New developments extend our concepts of signalling enzymes and possible messengers.
TAp63α induces AP-2γ as an early event in epidermal morphogenesis

Abstract Epidermal morphogenesis begins with the commitment of the single-layered surface ectoderm to initiate a stratification program, a process that requires the expression of the transcription factor TAp63α. To determine the molecular mechanism by which TAp63α induces genes associated with the commitment to stratification, such as K14, we have used a combination of in vitro and in vivo approaches. Our initial gene expression profiling studies suggested that TAp63α could regulate one or more AP-2 genes, which have been implicated in development and maintenance of the epidermis. We now demonstrate that TAp63α directly induces AP-2γ expression in embryonic epidermis, when commitment to stratification occurs. Furthermore, we show that, in the absence of AP-2γ, TAp63α fails to induce K14 expression in vitro. Our data identify AP-2γ as the first in vivo target gene of TAp63α, and provide novel insights into the molecular mechanisms associated with early events in epidermal morphogenesis.
Preisach Modeling of Hysteresis for Piezoceramic Actuator System

This paper discusses the adaptation of the Preisach model to describe the hysteresis behavior of piezoceramic actuator system and presents a modified geometric interpretation and numerical implementation method for the Preisach model especially for the hysteresis modeling of piezoceramic actuator system. The demagnetized-state, which refers both input and output equal zero state, and the generalized demagnetized-state are used as the basis of Preisach model rather the saturation states. Experiments on the hysteresis behavior of a piezoceramic actuator were carried out and the experimental measurements are compared with the hysteresis predictions. The comparison results verify the application of the modified Preisach model to piezoceramic material system.
Patterns of co-occurrence among the associative agnosias: implications for visual object representation

Abstract The patterns of co-occurrence among associative agnosia for faces, words and other objects are analysed and found to be consistent with the existence of two, rather than three, underlying visual recognition capacities. Different degrees and combinations of damage to these two capacities can account for the five different combinations of word, face, and object agnosia that are found, as well as for the apparent absence of two particular combinations. A tentative interpretation of the two inferred visual recognition capacities is offered, in terms of the idea of structural representations.
Pavlovian valuation systems in learning and decision making.

Environmental stimuli guide value-based decision making, but can do so through cognitive representation of outcomes or through general-incentive properties attributed to the cues themselves. We assert that these differences are conferred through the use of alternative associative structures differing in computational intensity. Using this framework, we review scientific evidence to discern the neural substrates of these assumed separable processes. We suggest that the contribution of the mesolimbic dopamine system to Pavlovian valuation is restricted to an affective system that is only updated through experiential feedback of stimulus–outcome pairing, whereas the orbitofrontal cortex contributes to an alternative system capable of inferential reasoning. Finally we discuss the interactions and convergence of these systems and their implications for decision making and its pathology.
Determination of partial molar volumes from free energy perturbation theory

Partial molar volume is an important thermodynamic property that gives insights into molecular size and intermolecular interactions in solution. Theoretical frameworks for determining the partial molar volume (V°) of a solvated molecule generally apply Scaled Particle Theory or Kirkwood–Buff theory. With the current abilities to perform long molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo simulations, more direct methods are gaining popularity, such as computing V° directly as the difference in computed volume from two simulations, one with a solute present and another without. Thermodynamically, V° can also be determined as the pressure derivative of the free energy of solvation in the limit of infinite dilution. Both approaches are considered herein with the use of free energy perturbation (FEP) calculations to compute the necessary free energies of solvation at elevated pressures. Absolute and relative partial molar volumes are computed for benzene and benzene derivatives using the OPLS-AA force field. The mean unsigned error for all molecules is 2.8 cm3 mol−1. The present methodology should find use in many contexts such as the development and testing of force fields for use in computer simulations of organic and biomolecular systems, as a complement to related experimental studies, and to develop a deeper understanding of solute–solvent interactions.
Effect of hydrogen on the surface-energy anisotropy of diamond and silicon

We have evaluated the surface free energies of hydrogen-covered (100), (111), and (110) surfaces of diamond and silicon as a function of the hydrogen chemical potential using first-principles methods. The change in surface-energy anisotropy and equilibrium crystal shape due to hydrogen adsorption is examined. The three low-index facets are affected differently by the presence of hydrogen and unexpected differences are found between diamond and silicon. Taking into account possible formation of local facets on the hydrogen-covered (100) surfaces, we find that the dihydride phase is not stable on both C(100) and Si(100), nor is the $3\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}1$ phase on C(100).
The international performance of healthcare systems in population health: Capabilities of pooled cross-sectional time series methods

This paper outlines the capabilities of pooled cross-sectional time series methodology for the international comparison of health system performance in population health. It shows how common model specifications can be improved so that they not only better address the specific nature of time series data on population health but are also more closely aligned with our theoretical expectations of the effect of healthcare systems. Three methodological innovations for this field of applied research are discussed: (1) how dynamic models help us understand the timing of effects, (2) how parameter heterogeneity can be used to compare performance across countries, and (3) how multiple imputation can be used to deal with incomplete data. We illustrate these methodological strategies with an analysis of infant mortality rates in 21 OECD countries between 1960 and 2008 using OECD Health Data.
Effect of Appearance of Correspondence on Response Rate to a Mail Questionnaire Survey

Probably more than any other single criticism, the criticism of low response rate can deliver the coup de grace to an otherwise well-designed, well-executed survey research project. Various techniques have been employed to increase response rate, e.g., reducing the questionnaire length; making the questionnaire easy to complete and return; using alert letters, follow-up letters, threats, pleas, coercion, rewards, logical arguments as to the importance of a project, illogical arguments, etc. Depending upon the population, the reasonable expectation may vary, say, from 50% to 80% (3). One technique often used to induce a higher rate is that of optimizing the appearance of the correspondence associated with the survey. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of the appearance of the correspondence on response rate to a mail questionnaire survey. The data were collected in a survey conducted with all (N = 132) licensed physical therapists in the state of Georgia, chca Summer 1970 (1). Group 1 (n = 66) was termed the "appearance" group and Group 2 (n = 66) the "other" group. There were three mailings: an alert letter, a letter of instruction accompanying the questionnaire, and a follow-up letter. Correspondence to Group 1 was beautifully auto-typed, appeared personal, and was signed by the director of the project (a former president of the state association). Correspondence to Group 2 was mimeographed, including the stylus-signed signature of the director of the project. The content of correspondence was constant; only appearance varied. Before mailing, each questionnaire was subtly identified as to treatment group. Returns were otherwise anonymous. The over-all response rate for the questionnaire survey (the number of questionnaires returned divided by the number of members of that group) was high, i.e., 80%. The response rates for Groups 1 and 2 were 85% and 76% respectively. The obtained t of 1.23 was nor significant (p > .05; 2, p. 138). While response rate for Group 1 was numerically higher than that for Group 2, the difference could be accounted by chance. The appearance of the correspondence apparently had no real effect on response rate for this sample. Two limimtions ought to be mentioned: a larger N would be desirable; and Ss were members of a relatively intimate professional group, but in a typical survey respondents do not know each other or the director of the project. While replication with a larger and a less intimate subject population would be desirable, the data do indicate the correspondence appearance made essentially no difference in response rate for this sample.
Interference-free mid-IR laser absorption detection of methane

A novel, mid-IR scanned-wavelength laser absorption diagnostic was developed for time-resolved, interference-free, absorption measurement of methane concentration. A differential absorption (peak minus valley) scheme was used that takes advantage of the structural differences of the absorption spectrum of methane and other hydrocarbons. A peak and valley wavelength pair was selected to maximize the differential cross-section (?peak?minus?valley) of methane for the maximum signal-to-noise ratio, and to minimize that of the interfering absorbers. Methane cross-sections at the peak and valley wavelengths were measured over a range of temperatures, 1000 to 2000 K, and pressures 1.3 to 5.4 atm. The cross-sections of the interfering absorbers were assumed constant over the small wavelength interval between the methane peak and valley features. Using this diagnostic, methane concentration time histories during n-heptane pyrolysis were measured behind reflected shock waves in a shock tube. The differential absorption scheme efficiently rejected the absorption interference and successfully recovered the vapor-phase methane concentration. These measurements allowed the comparison with methane concentration time-history simulations derived from a current n-heptane reaction mechanism (Sirjean et al 2009 A high-temperature chemical kinetic model of n-alkane oxidation JetSurF version 1.0).