cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Techniques for measurement of the thermal expansion of advanced composite materials

Techniques available to measure small thermal displacements in flat laminates and structural tubular elements of advanced composite materials are described. Emphasis is placed on laser interferometry and the laser interferometric dilatometer system used at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Langley Research Center. Thermal expansion data are presented for graphite-fiber reinforced 6061 and 2024 aluminum laminates and for graphite fiber reinforced AZ91 C and QH21 A magnesium laminates before and after processing to minimize or eliminate thermal strain hysteresis. Data are also presented on the effects of reinforcement volume content on thermal expansion of silicon-carbide whisker and particulate reinforced aluminum.
Probability of error for trained unitary space-time modulation over a Gauss-innovations Rician channel

The pairwise probability of error for trained unitary space-time modulation over channels with a constant specular component and time-varying diffuse fading is derived. We consider the case where the diffuse channel varies from sample to sample within a symbol according to a first-order AR model. Our previous results are reviewed which show that the effect of the time-varying diffuse channel can be described by an effective SNR that decreases with time. We derive pairwise probability of error expressions using these effective SNR values, which are shown by simulation to describe the performance accurately.
Weyl's Law with Error Estimate

Let X=Sl(3,Z)\Sl(3,R)/SO(3,R). Let N(lambda) denote the dimension of the space of cusp forms with Laplace eigenvalue less than lambda. We prove that N(lambda)=C lambda^(5/2)+O(lambda^2) where C is the appropriate constant establishing Weyl's law with a good error term for the noncompact space X. The proof uses the Selberg trace formula in a form that is modified from the work of Wallace and also draws on results of Stade and Wallace and techniques of Huntley and Tepper. We also, in the course of the proof, give an upper bound on the number of cusp forms that can violate the Ramanujan conjecture.
INTERFACING U.S. CENSUS MAP FILES WITH STATISTICAL GRAPHICS SOFTWARE : APPLICATION AND USE IN EPIDEMIOLOGY

In 1990, the United States Bureau of the Census released detailed geographic map files known as TIGER/Line )Topologically Integrated Geographic Encoding and Referencing(. The TIGER files, accessible through purchase or federal repository libraries, contain 24 billion characters of data describing various geographic features including coastlines, hydrography, transportation networks, political boundaries, etc. for the entire United States. Many of these physical features are of potential interest in epidemiological case studies. Unfortunately, the TIGER data base only provides raw alphanumeric data; no utility software, graphical or otherwise, is included. Recently, the S statistical software package has been extended to include a map display function. The map function augments S's high-level approach towards statistical analysis and graphical display of data. Coupling this statistical software with the map data base developed for U.S. Census data collection will facilitate epidemiological research. We discuss the technical background necessary to utilize the TIGER data base for mapping with S. Two types of S maps, segment-based and polygon-based, are discussed along with methods to construct them from TIGER data. Polygon-based maps are useful for displaying regional statistical data, such as disease rates or incidence at the census tract level. Segment-based maps are easier to assemble and are appropriate when the data are not regionalized. Census tract data of AIDS incidence in San Francisco and lung cancer case locations relative to petrochemical refinery sites in Contra Costa County are used to illustrate the methods and potential uses of interfacing the TIGER data base with S.
Conformation-Dependent Interaction of α-Lactalbumin with Model and Biological Membranes: A Spin-Label ESR Study

α-Lactalbumin (α-LA) is biosynthesized and stored at the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (ER), then transferred to the Golgi lumen when prolactin stimulation of lactose biosynthesis and secretion takes place. Because both environments are composed of membranes, it was of interest to examine the interactions of α-LA with relevant model and biological membranes. Using the ESR spin-labeled fatty acid analog 5-doxyl stearic acid, we found evidence reflecting the insertion of “acid-shocked” molten globule (MG) α-LA into lecithin or phosphatidylserine (PS) multi-lamellar vesicles. An additional ∼3 G immobilization was observed in the α-LA-lecithin sample versus the lipid alone. With PS, the increased immobilization was almost 6 G, reflecting an enhanced effect caused by strong electrostatic interactions between the positively charged protein with the negatively charged headgroup at pH 2.4. This was also reflected in the broadening of the PS:α-LA phase transition. Additionally, we have demonstrated that α-LA in its apo-form also shows similar insertion characteristics with both model and natural lipid membranes. Upon addition of calcium, the apo-form is released from the membrane as the Ca2+-bound protein.
Formation of misfit dislocations with in-plane Burgers vectors in boron diffused (111) silicon

The study of different stages of boron diffusion by plan-view and cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy shows that, as in the classical model of Matthews, misfit dislocation half-loops are initially generated at the surface. The Burgers vector of the dislocation half-loop is inclined with respect to the surface and thus the initial misfit dislocations are not very efficient in strain relaxation. As the diffusion proceeds, non-parallel dislocations interact and give rise to product segments that have in-plane Burgers vectors parallel to the surface. Based on the observations, a model is presented to elucidate the details of these interactions and the formation of more efficient misfit dislocations from the less-efficient inclined ones.
The extent of non-conglomerability of finitely additive probabilities

An arbitrary finitely additive probability can be decomposed uniquely into a convex combination of a countably additive probability and a purely finitely additive (PFA) one. The coefficient of the PFA probability is an upper bound on the extent to which conglomerability may fail in a finitely additive probability with that decomposition. If the probability is defined on a σ-field, the bound is sharp. Hence, non-conglomerability (or equivalently non-disintegrability) characterizes finitely as opposed to countably additive probability. Nonetheless, there exists a PFA probability which is simultaneously conglomerable over an arbitrary finite set of partitions. Neither conglomerability nor non-conglomerability in a given partition is closed under convex combinations. But the convex combination of PFA ultrafilter probabilities, each of which cannot be made conglomerable in a common margin, is singular with respect to any finitely additive probability that is conglomerable in that margin.
Pirates, prisoners, and preliterates: anarchic context and the private enforcement of law

This paper investigates institutions that develop to strengthen or expand the discipline of continuous dealings as a mechanism for privately enforcing law. I consider three such institutions in three different anarchic contexts: that of Caribbean pirates; that of drug-dealing gangs and prison inmates; and that of preliterate tribesmen. These cases highlight several ways in which different anarchic contexts give rise to different private law enforcement institutions. The varieties of private law enforcement institutions that emerge in different anarchic contexts reflect the particular problem situations that persons who rely on those institutions confront in their attempts to protect property rights without government.
The Dolbeault-cohomology ring of a compact, even-dimensional lie group

The paper presents a classification of all homogeneous (integrable) complex structures on compact, connected lie groups of even dimension. Thereafter, using lie algebraic methods it proves theorems about the Dolbeault cohomology rings of these complex manifolds in the semisimple case and exhibits the dramatic variation of ring structure of the Dolbeault rings of groups of rank 2. Using some specific computations forSO(9), it gives a counter-example to a long-standing conjecture about the Hodge-deRham (Frohlicher) spectral sequence.
Tepary beans (Phaseolus acutifolius var. latifolius): a potential food source for African and Middle Eastern cultures

Tepary bean (Phaseolus acutifolius var. latifolius), a native North American legume adapted to arid/semiarid lands was partially evaluated as a potential food source for people of African and Middle Eastern regions. To indicate the acceptability of these pulses, traditional Nigerian and Saudi Arabian foodstuffs were formulated with teparies substituted for beans commonly used in these regions. Organoleptic evaluation of these food products by students native to the area of recipe origin indicated the dishes to be moderately to highly acceptable. Chemical analyses of this species revealed tepary beans to be very similar in proximate composition, amino acid profile and content of various minerals to other grain legumes (cowpeas, chickpeas and fava beans) of the African/Middle Eastern region. Protein contents of tepary samples averaged 23.0%, whereas protein quality was found limiting in sulfur amino acids. Laboratory examination of raw tepary samples for antinutritional factors uncovered levels of flatulent oligo saccharides, trypsin inhibitors and phytic acid commonly associated with grain legumes. However, lectin assays revealed greater agglutination associated with tepary composites than in fava, chickpea and cowpea samples. All bean samples were simmered resulting in fully cooked materials which exhibited low levels of nutritional antagonists. Cooked beans were considered safe and nutritionally acceptable.
Chlamydia trachomatis infection in pregnancy and effect of treatment on outcome

The effect of Chlamydia trachomads on pregnancy outcome and the effect of treatment of positive cervical cultures was studied by culturing 11,544 women for chlamydia at their first prenatal visit. Chlamydia culture was positive in 2433 (21.08%) and prevalence was related to age and race. Of the positive cultures, 1110 were classified as untreated. The untreated group demonstrated a significant increase in the incidence of premature rupture of the membranes and low birth weight and a decrease in survival when compared with either those with positive cultures who received treatment ( N = 1323) or those with negative cultures ( N = 9111). Screening of populations at high risk of chlamydia is recommended and treatment of chlamydia-positive patients may improve pregnancy outcome. (AM J OBSTET GYNECOL 1990;162:34-9.)
Strategically planned entrepreneurial expansion into emerging markets: a resource-based view of Argentina

This paper highlights entrepreneurial expansion into an emerging market. These markets are characterised as locations moving along a dynamic path from a closed economy with government control of economic policy to an open economy with reliance on market forces and the global economy. Building upon Porter’s diamond to determine international country attractiveness we added additional factors relevant to firms considering entrepreneurial expansion into emerging markets. A model is developed for achieving successful entrepreneurial expansion into emerging markets. Argentina is the emerging market used to apply the model.
Development and Evaluation of Ceramic Components for Small Gas Turbine Engine

The 300kW class CGT project in Japan administered by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) under the sponsorship of the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) was completed in March, 1999 after 11 years. The purposes of the project were energy conservation and environmental protection. The CGT302 group of the CGT project, in cooperation with Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. (KHI), achieved all of the project targets. The targets included the turbine inlet temperature (TIT) of 1350°C, a thermal efficiency of 42%, emissions below 70ppm, and a 1000hr engine durability test carried out at 1200°C1).To achieve such targets Kyocera has been developing various ceramic components such as large-sized stationary components, monolithic rotors and ceramic shrouds with abradable seal. These components have been successfully fabricated with SN281 and SN282. Damage was caused as a result of contact between the turbine blades and the shrouds. In order to reduce such damages, the shroud has been modified to incorporate an abradable material newly developed for this application, and an engine test has been carried out successfully with no damage.For practical use, the greatest concern is the durability of ceramic components. The ceramic components were evaluated in a 1000hr long term durability test. There were, however, some troubles for the GGT rotors and the engines were broken when the durability tests were carried out. Finally, only the combustor survived the 1000hr engine test at 1200°C. The material characteristics of the survived combustor along with other broken components were analyzed after the long-term engine tests. The test results revealed no obvious change in mechanical properties nor in blade shape.In this paper, the development of selected components is presented along with the evaluation results of components exposed to the long-term engine tests.Copyright © 2000 by ASME
The deregulation of the US dairy industry: Implications for world dairy markets

The US government implemented or sanctioned measures that substantially deregulated the US dairy industry during the 1980s and early 1990s. Leading US cooperatives have read government signals as forecasts of additional reductions in real support for the US dairy industry. Accordingly, they made product development, exporting, and other strategic adjustments to operate more effectively in the new environment. Two scenarios describing future developments in the US dairy industry were analyzed: Scenario No. 1 involves additional gradual liberalization of the industry. Scenario No. 2 involves changes that occur as a by-product of the North American Free Trade Agreement. Developments under this scenario enable US firms to expand their shares of the Canadian and Mexican dairy markets. © 1992 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Changes in rheological properties of gliadin as a function of temperature and moisture: Development of a state diagram

Abstract Rheological properties and thermal properties are used to characterize the physical states of gliadin. In this research the temperature and frequency dependence of storage (G′) and loss (G″) moduli were obtained for gliadin with 15–40% moisture. Gliadin showed a networking reaction in the temperature range of 70–115°C for the examined moisture content. Below this temperature it behaved like and entangled fluid. Gliadin showed a maximum cross-linking density at 100°C calculated using G′ and density data. As the temperature exceeded 135°C, the aggregated gliadin softened. A preliminary state diagram of gliadin as a function of temperature and moisture content was developed.
Surgery: outcomes of gastric-segment bladder reconstruction.

Although early studies of gastrocystoplasty reported good long-term outcomes with few adverse effects, some more recent studies have contradicted this view—a recent report has shown high complication rates and poor outcomes. The use of the technique remains controversial and can be recommended only in a select group of patients.
Sorted Chase Detection Algorithm for MIMO System

In multiple-input multiple-output wireless communication system, the order of symbol detection in Chase framework is critical because of error propagation. In order to improve chase detector's performance, sorted chase detection algortihm to reduce error propagation is proposed here. By setting parameters at different values, trade-off between performance and complexity can be obtained properly. Simulation experiment results show the validity of proposed algorithm.
Induction of four proteins in eukaryotic cells by kethoxal bis(thiosemicarbazone)

Abstract Kethoxal bis(thiosemicarbazone) induces the synthesis of four proteins (100 000, 70 000, 35 000 and 25 000 daltons) in normal chick embryo cells. The 70 000 dalton species is produced at the fastest rate 2 h after exposure to the compound. Pulse-chase experiments revealed neither precursors nor products of these proteins and both actinomycin and cycloheximide inhibited their synthesis. Neither of the two substituents of the inducer, kethoxal or thiosemicarbazide, were active. The four proteins were induced in several other species, but human cells produced only three proteins (100 000, 70 000 and a different 30 000 dalton form).
Animal models of atherosclerosis: more than mice.

Despite the complexities and intricacies of human atheroscleosis our understanding of the underlying processes is growing, in o small part due to the use of animal models of atherosclerosis. uman atherosclerosis is difficult to study as the lesions evolve ver years to decades. However, by utilizing small animal models nwhich atherogenesis can be induced over shorter periods of time weeks tomonths) current research can investigate the pathogenic echanisms involved at various stages of development. Much of ur recent advances in atherosclerosis research have come from he use of murine models, in which atherosclerosis can be induced ia genetic and/or dietarymanipulations over relatively short perids of time. Further, the ability to fairly easily alter the mouse enome, for example over-expressing or deleting a gene of interest, as allowed direct testing of the role of certain proteins in varius stages of atherosclerosis development. The relative low cost, asy access, high fertility, and availability of numerous biological ools havemademurinemodels the apparent first choice for animal tudiesof atherosclerosis.However, therearenumerousdrawbacks o the use of murine models that are often overlooked, and new odels of atherosclerosis are urgently neededby the research comunity to expand our understanding and allow research beyond he limitations of murine models. Although murine models have many features making them dvantageous for use in atherosclerosis studies, there are several ajor concerns. First, mice carry their cholesterol primarily in HDL articles, unless genetically altered. Second, mice do not express holesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP), which plays a signifiant role in lipoprotein metabolism in humans [1]. Third, murine therosclerosis is limited to early stages of disease andmostmodels o not develop advanced atheroma, with none manifesting plaque upture. Other rodent models, including guinea pigs and hamsters
Molecular genetics of APUDomas

It is tempting to speculate that genetic studies of the human APUDomas, particularly those of a hereditary nature, may ultimately provide valuable clues to the molecular basis of malignant transformation in cells of all types, uncover the mechanisms responsible for tumor progression, and perhaps decipher the signals important in the differentiation of normal neural crest-derived tissue. Generally, several strategies have been used in the genetic analysis of these tumors with success. These include (1) cytogenetic examination of recurring chromosomal abnormalities in hopes of pinpointing critical neighboring growth regulatory sequences important in tumor evolution, (2) identification of dominant acting oncogenes in tumor cells, (3) search for recessive inactivated suppressor genes that may regulate cell growth by analyzing tumors for loss of heterozygosity (LOH), and (4) genetic linkage studies of kindreds affected with familial APUDomas to identify and subsequently characterize the predisposition gene using a positional or functional cloning approach. The results of these strategies as they have been employed in the investigation of cutaneous malignant melanoma (CMM), the dysplastic nevus syndrome (DNS), and the multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) syndromes are summarized.
Hybrid fertility and aphid resistance in the cross Nicotiana tabacum x N. gossei

Nicotiana gossei, a disease- and insect-resistance species, was hybridized with the cigar-wrapper variety of N. tabacum, ‘Florida 17’. The sterile interspecific hybrid was converted to a fertile amphiploid by treatment with colchicine. Of two methods of colchicine treatment one was more effective than the other. Certain differences in morphological details of shoot and leaf development were observed after colchicine treatment. Descriptions were also given of the relative fertility of the progenies resulting from reciprocal crosses of the recurrent parent Florida 17 by the amphiploid and by the sesquidiploid.
Return to fertility following discontinuation of oral contraceptives.

Objectives To provide an overview of the studies that have evaluated the return to fertility following cessation of oral contraceptives (OCs), including recent evidence in women discontinuing extended-cycle and continuous-use regimens. Design Comprehensive review. Patient(s) None. Intervention(s) Relevant articles were identified through a PubMed literature search (1960–2007) and a cross-reference of published data. Main Outcome Measure(s) Time to fertility following contraceptive use. Result(s) Numerous studies have demonstrated some delay in the time to conception in previous users of OCs who discontinued use in order to conceive, but this impairment appears to be temporary and typically limited to the early months following cessation of OC use. Reported 12-month conception rates in former cyclic OC users range from 72%–94% and are similar to those observed in women discontinuing intrauterine devices (71%–92%), progestin-only contraceptives (70%–95%), condoms (91%), and natural family planning (92%). There is a limited amount of data on the time to conception in women stopping extended-cycle and continuous-use OCs, but the data suggest that subsequent return to fertility is generally comparable to that of cyclic OCs. Conclusion(s) A comprehensive survey of reported data indicates that the return of fertility in former OC users (both cyclic and extended/continuous regimens) in women who stop use in order to conceive is comparable to that observed with other contraceptive methods.
Control of a jet-in-cross-flow by periodically oscillating tabsa)

A technique for active control of a jet-in-cross-flow (JICF) is explored in this study. Two triangular tabs are placed at the 90° and 270° edges of the jet orifice, relative to the direction of the cross-flow. An asymmetry in the placement of the two tabs is reversed periodically. This causes a profound oscillation of the flow field that persists as far downstream as permitted by the measurements in the facility (100 orifice diameters). Parametric dependence of the unsteadiness and its impact on the flow field is investigated. It is found that the effect becomes more pronounced with increasing value of the momentum flux ratio (J) while there is little or no effect in the range, J < 15. The effective frequencies of oscillation are low – more than an order of magnitude lower than that found with oscillatory blowing technique in previous studies. Flow visualization indicates that the oscillation has no impact on the “wake vortices”. The kidney-shaped cross section of the JICF is seen to tilt side-to-side periodically. The flow mechanism apparently involves a direct perturbation of the counter-rotating streamwise vortex pair of the flow.
GAS CONTENT OF GRAPHITES

ARTIFICIAL graphite for use in graphite-moderated nuclear reactors, as anodes for mercury vapour rectifiers, and crucibles for vacuum fusion work should contain little gas. Otherwise, when the graphite is heated to operating temperatures, the gas is desorbed, resulting in adverse effects. For example, in the graphite-moderated nuclear reactor, hydrogen and carbon monoxide released from the graphite can interact with the fuel-cladding material (usually zirconium or stainless steel), resulting in hardening and embrittlement of the metal. Released carbon monoxide can disproportionate on cooler metal heat-exchanger surfaces depositing carbon, resulting in an adverse effect on the heat-transfer and flow properties of the system.
Lipids in the pathogenesis of ichthyosis: topical cholesterol sulfate-induced scaling in hairless mice

Although several abnormalities of lipid metabolism have been associated with abnormal cornification in humans, evidence that these lipids directly provoke abnormal scale is lacking. One recently described example of a lipid abnormality in ichthyosis is absence of the enzyme steroid sulfatase in recessive X-linked ichthyosis (RXLI). This enzyme normally desulfates cholesterol sulfate (CS) and sulfated steroid hormones, including dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS). As a result of this enzyme deficiency, patients with RXLI accumulate CS in their blood and skin. To detemine whether sulfated sterols are the specific cause of increased scale, we applied CS, DHEAS, cholesterol, or vehicle alone to the backs of hairless mice. In animals treated with CS, but not with DHEAS or with vehicle, visible scale without erythema appeared after 1 week, peaked at 2 weeks, and then diminished. When the dose of CS was doubled, abnormal scale reappeared and then decreased again. CS-induced scale was reversible, clearing within 3 days of discontinuation of treatment. Because there was no acanthosis, dermal inflammation, abnormal transepidermal water loss, or increased labeling index, it appears that the 3-fold increase in thickness of the stratum corneum in CS-treated animals is due to a direct effect on this layer.
Compositional grading in an ~3.24 Ga impact-produced spherule bed, Barberton greenstone belt, South Africa: A key to impact plume evolution

Compositional grading of spherules in the ~3.24 Ga spherule bed S3, Barberton greenstone belt, South Africa, provides constraints on the evolution of the impact-generated rock vapor plume within which the spherules formed. Two fall-deposited sections of S3, 40 km apart, are both about 30 cm thick and composed almost entirely of spherules. These spherules are diverse in size, composition and texture. Although they have been chemically altered, primary textures and some mineralogy is preserved. Both sections show a similar compositional grading, which includes five stratigraphic zones, each composed of a distinctive assemblage of spherule types. Petrographic and geochemical data suggest that this stratigraphic layering is the same in both sections. This regionally consistent grading suggests large-scale compositional and thermal layering in the impact plume. REE data indicate that the basal part of S3 in these sections contains the most refractory material and that the upper part contains the most basaltic components. Overall, the beds show a temporal evolution consistent with the condensation sequence predicted for a fractionation-modified mixing of chondritic and basaltic materials.
Losses introduced by tilting intracavity etalons

An approximate analytical expression and numerical results for the on-resonance losses caused by tilting an intracavity etalon are given, when the laser operates in the zero-order Gaussian mode.
Soft computing-based computational intelligent for reservoir characterization

Abstract Reservoir characterization plays a crucial role in modern reservoir management. It helps to make sound reservoir decisions and improves the asset value of the oil and gas companies. It maximizes integration of multi-disciplinary data and knowledge and improves the reliability of the reservoir predictions. The ultimate product is a reservoir model with realistic tolerance for imprecision and uncertainty. Soft computing aims to exploit such a tolerance for solving practical problems. In reservoir characterization, these intelligent techniques can be used for uncertainty analysis, risk assessment, data fusion and data mining which are applicable to feature extraction from seismic attributes, well logging, reservoir mapping and engineering. The main goal is to integrate soft data such as geological data with hard data such as 3D seismic and production data to build a reservoir and stratigraphic model. While some individual methodologies (esp. neurocomputing) have gained much popularity during the past few years, the true benefit of soft computing lies on the integration of its constituent methodologies rather than use in isolation.
DOES TRAVEL INFORMATION INFLUENCE COMMUTER AND NONCOMMUTER BEHAVIOR? RESULTS FROM THE SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA TRAVINFO PROJECT

Improved information received from public and private advanced traveler information systems can help travelers make more informed decisions, shorten times spent in traffic congestion, and reduce anxiety and stress. The behavioral responses of automobile and transit commuters as well as those of noncommuters to travel information received from radio, television, and telephone are analyzed. The influence of information has seldom been studied in terms of these different users. The data were collected through a computer-aided telephone interview conducted in the San Francisco Bay Area (n = 947). The study analyzes the impacts of socioeconomic, context, and information variables on individuals' decisions to adjust travel before beginning their trips; given an adjustment, the frequency of trip changes; and the type of most recent trip changes in terms of route, departure time, or mode shifts. The statistical analysis involves estimation of probit models with and without sample selectivity and a multinomial log...
A Bioactive Substance in the Caecum of Germ-Free Animals: Demonstration of a Bioactive Substance in Caecal Contents of Germ-free Animals

A Bioactive Substance in the Caecum of Germ-Free Animals: Demonstration of a Bioactive Substance in Caecal Contents of Germ-free Animals
Synthesis and Potent Anti-HIV Activity of l-2‘,3‘-Didehydro-2‘,3‘-dideoxy-2‘-fluoro-4‘-thiocytidine

[reaction: see text] L-2'-Fluoro-4'-thio-2',3'-unsaturated cytidine 11 was synthesized from (R)-2-fluorobutenolide 2, which was prepared from 2,3-O-isopropylidene-L-glyceraldehyde 1. The synthesized compound 11 shows potent antiviral activity against HIV-1.
Early pattern of neuronal differentiation in the Xenopus embryonic brainstem and spinal cord

Wholemount antibody labeling techniques and horseradish peroxidase backfilling were used to analyze the pattern of neuronal differentiation in the embryonic Xenopus central nervous system between stages 22 and 35/36. In the spinal cord, the first neurons to differentiate are the Rohon-Beard neurons; they are followed by ventral neurons with descending axons (descending interneurons, motoneurons) and lateral interneurons with commissural axons. The somata and axons of these primary neurons form dorsal, ventral, and lateral columns, respectively; the ventral and lateral columns uninterruptedly continue forward into the brainstem. The distribution and projection patterns of spinal neurons were analyzed quantitatively. Rohon-Beard neurons, commissural interneurons, and primary motoneurons vary in number from segment to segment. Thus, these neurons are not distributed in a segmental pattern. In each segment, neurons of a given type project axons whose length varies over a wide range. The numerical distribution of axons formed by a population of neurons of a given type was calculated and expressed as the projection profile of these neurons. For each type of neuron and spinal segment, the projection profile is different. Furthermore, the projection profiles change in a systematic way along the spinal cord. For example, the fraction of Rohon-Beard neurons with long ascending axons steadily increases if one moves towards caudal spinal levels. The findings suggest that suprasegmental cues with a graded distribution along the spinal cord determine the number and projection profile of a particular cell type in a given segment.
Higher-order latent trait models for cognitive diagnosis.

Higher-order latent traits are proposed for specifying the joint distribution of binary attributes in models for cognitive diagnosis. This approach results in a parsimonious model for the joint distribution of a high-dimensional attribute vector that is natural in many situations when specific cognitive information is sought but a less informative item response model would be a reasonable alternative. This approach stems from viewing the attributes as the specific knowledge required for examination performance, and modeling these attributes as arising from a broadly-defined latent trait resembling theϑ of item response models. In this way a relatively simple model for the joint distribution of the attributes results, which is based on a plausible model for the relationship between general aptitude and specific knowledge. Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithms for parameter estimation are given for selected response distributions, and simulation results are presented to examine the performance of the algorithm as well as the sensitivity of classification to model misspecification. An analysis of fraction subtraction data is provided as an example.
Electron-impact induced fragmentation of alkylthiopyridines. The extent of ring nitrogen involvement

The fragmentation patterns obtained upon electron impact of 2-, 3-, and 4-alkylthio-pyridines were examined to determine the extent that the ring nitrogen is involved. The effect of the size of the alkyl group, as well as the ring position of the sulfide on the fragmentation of the methyl-, ethyl-, n-propyl-, n-butyl- and t-butylthiopyridines, is discussed. The mass spectrum of 2-n-octylthiopyridine is also recorded. The molecular ions decomposed with rupture of the bonds α, β, γ, and δ from the hetero-aromatic ring. The molecular ions also exhibited the loss of alkenes via a number of mechanisms, notably the loss of Cn-1 H2n from the alkyl group of 2-alkylthiopyridines by a transition involving the rupture of a C-C bond γ to the ring and the transfer of a proton on a carbon ϵ to the ring. The role of the pyridine sp2 nitrogen in this and other fragmentations is discussed. An elimination of HS radical is also observed in a number of these alkylthiopyridines.
Rotational Splitting of Global Solar Oscillations and Its Relevance to Tests of General Relativity

The estimation of the sun's internal angular velocity using rotational splitting of low-order, low-degree global oscillations in the limb-darkening function is reviewed. Observed spatial properties of the eigenfunctions confirm the multiplet classifications previously identified by the existence of Zeeman-like frequency patterns characteristic of rotational splitting. From the observed rotational splitting, a sidereal rotational frequency of ≥3.0 μ Hz is derived for the deep interior; this value is more than six times greater than the equatorial rotational frequency of the photosphere. Upper limits have also been estimated for the internal magnetic field by analyzing the splitting for departures from uniform spacing. The inferred angular velocity distribution, together with the estimated upper limit on the internal magnetic field, yield a gravitational quadrupole moment,J2 of (5.5±1.3)×10−6. When this result is combined with different published results from planetary radar observations, values of 0.987±0.006 and 0.991±0.006 are obtained for (2+2γ−β)/3, a combination of Eddington-Robertson PPN parameters which in general relativity takes the value of 1.
Abstract B37: Monitoring kinome response to EGFR inhibition in triple negative breast cancer

Triple negative breast cancers (TNBC) are resistant to hormone therapies and HER2-targeted therapies because of their ER-negative, PR-negative, and HER2-negative status. A further lack of molecularly targeted therapies for TNBC leaves conventional cytotoxic chemotherapy as the primary course of treatment for basal-like TNBC. While TNBCs are initially sensitive to chemotherapy, resistance can quickly develop, and tumors often recur with an aggressive metastatic phenotype and poorer patient prognosis. Expression of EGFR has been linked to basal-like TNBC, and EGFR expression is significantly associated with poorer prognosis in patients. However, clinical trials targeting EGFR in TNBC have been largely unsuccessful, possibly due to TNBC cell responses that bypass targeted inhibition of EGFR. Thus, EGFR inhibition in TNBC may cause a rewiring of kinase signaling, allowing TNBC cells to evade growth arrest and/or apoptosis. Rational design of combination therapies for treating cancer entails knowing how cancer cells rewire kinase growth signaling pathways to promote proliferation and survival in the presence of molecularly targeted therapies. In this study we applied a chemical proteomic approach to define kinome response to EGFR inhibitor treatment in TNBC and identify kinases upregulated in response to EGFR inhibition. We discovered compensatory upregulation of multiple receptor tyrosine kinases in response to EGFR inhibitors that may be mediating cell growth and survival following EGFR inhibition. Our methods show that kinome response to drug treatment can be monitored and proposes a new mode for designing effective small molecule inhibitor combinations for treating cancer.
The effect of teacher influence at school on first-year teacher attrition: A multilevel analysis of the Schools and Staffing Survey for 1999–2000

This paper studied the effect of perceived teacher influence over school policy on first-year teacher attrition. Data came from the National Center for Education Statistics' Schools and Staffing Survey 1999 – 2000 and Teacher Follow-up Survey 2000 – 2001. First-year teacher status and teacher influence over school policy were related to teachers' odds of leaving the teaching profession in a weighted hierarchical generalized linear model. First-year teachers stand a higher risk of leaving the teaching profession than experienced teachers, and strong teacher influence over school policy can mitigate first-year teachers' propensity to leave the teaching profession. The implications of the results for teacher retention and teacher empowerment were discussed.
Designing the world we live in

Engineering designers, who decide the physical shape and technical features of the built world, tend to forget that their predecessors have been making design decisions for hundreds of years. This paper gives several historical examples of design experience which can supply useful insights today, because the essential nature of engineering has not changed.
Targeting RAS–ERK signalling in cancer: promises and challenges

The RAS-RAF-MEK-ERK signalling pathway is hyperactivated in a high percentage of tumours, most frequently owing to activating mutations of the KRAS, NRAS and BRAF genes. Recently, the use of compounds targeting components of ERK signalling, such as RAF or MEK inhibitors, has led to substantial improvement in clinical outcome in metastatic melanoma and has shown promising clinical activity in additional tumour types. However, response rates are highly variable and the efficacy of these drugs is primarily limited by the development of resistance. Both intrinsic and acquired resistance to RAF and MEK inhibitors are frequently associated with the persistence of ERK signalling in the presence of the drug, implying the need for more innovative approaches to target the pathway.
Host transcription factor Rpb11p affects tombusvirus replication and recombination via regulating the accumulation of viral replication proteins.

Previous genome-wide screens identified over 100 host genes whose deletion/down-regulation affected tombusvirus replication and 32 host genes that affected tombusvirus RNA recombination in yeast, a model host for replication of Tomato bushy stunt virus (TBSV). Down-regulation of several of the identified host genes affected the accumulation levels of p33 and p92 pol replication proteins, raising the possibility that these host factors could be involved in the regulation of the amount of viral replication proteins and, thus, they are indirectly involved in TBSV replication and recombination. To test this model, we developed a tightly regulated expression system for recombinant p33 and p92 pol replication proteins in yeast. We demonstrate that high accumulation level of p33 facilitated efficient viral RNA replication, while the effect of p33 level on RNA recombination was less pronounced. On the other hand, high level of p92 pol accumulation promoted TBSV RNA recombination more efficiently than RNA replication. As predicted, Rpb11p, which is part of the polII complex, affected the accumulation levels of p33 and p92 pol as well as altered RNA replication and recombination. An in vitro assay with the tombusvirus replicase further supported that Rpb11p affects TBSV replication and recombination only indirectly, via regulating p33 and p92 pol levels. In contrast, the mechanism by which Rpt4p endopeptidase/ ATPase and Mps1p threonine/tyrosine kinase affect TBSV recombination is different from that proposed for Rpb11p. We propose a model that the concentration (molecular crowding) of replication proteins within the viral replicase is a factor affecting viral replication and recombination. © 2007 Published by Elsevier Inc.
Tests of hypotheses based on ranks in the general linear model

A unified approach is developed for testing hypotheses in the general linear model based on the ranks of the residuals. It complements the nonparametric estimation procedures recently reported in the literature. The testing and estimation procedures together provide a robust alternative to least squares. The methods are similar in spirit to least squares so that results are simple to interpret. Hypotheses concerning a subset of specified parameters can be tested, while the remaining parameters are treated as nuisance parameters. Asymptotically, the test statistic is shown to have a chi-square distribution under the null hypothesis. This result is then extended to cover a sequence of contiguous alternatives from which the Pitman efficacy is derived. The general application of the test requires the consistent estimation of a functional of the underlying distribution and one such estimate is furnished.
Spontaneous rupture of the stomach

A case of spontaneous rupture of the stomach associated with perforation of the diaphragm is reported. Spontaneous rupture of the stomach is a rare but fatal condition. The pathophysiologic features, clinical manifestations, and treatment are discussed.
Renewable alternative fuels: Alcohol production from lignocellulosic biomass

Abstract Advances in renewable alternative biomass-based fuel technologies make their commercialization likely within a decade. Substituting fuels derived from biomass for fossil fuels can reduce dependence on petroleum use, improve air quality, mitigate global warming, and strengthen a weak farm economy. Implementation of the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 increased the oxygenate content in gasoline, providing greater market opportunities for alcohols—as direct blends and to produce ethers such as ETBE and MTBE. Alcohol production from lignocellulosic biomass is promising, leading to renewable, alternative transportation fuels that are projected to be competitive as pure fuels with fuels derived from petroleum at $20–$25/bbl ($0.13–$0.16/liter) within the next 5 to 10 years. However, the timeframe for deployment depends not only on the development of technologies, but also on the active involvement of appropriate industries. Industrial partnerships have been formed, and commercialization strategy is well under way; process development units at the pilot scale are both operating and under construction in the United States. Alliances between industry and the government include agreements to proceed with scale-up to engineering development units and eventually to commercial-scale plants.
Joint Association Graph Screening and Decomposition for Large-Scale Linear Dynamical Systems

This paper studies large-scale dynamical networks where the current state of the system is a linear transformation of the previous state, contaminated by a multivariate Gaussian noise. Examples include stock markets, human brains, and gene regulatory networks. We introduce a transition matrix to describe the evolution, which can be translated to a directed Granger transition graph, and use the concentration matrix of the Gaussian noise to capture the second-order relations between nodes, which can be translated to an undirected conditional dependence graph. We propose regularizing the two graphs jointly in topology identification and dynamics estimation. Based on the notion of joint association graph (JAG), we develop a joint graphical screening and estimation (JGSE) framework for efficient network learning in big data. In particular, our method can predetermine and remove unnecessary edges based on the joint graphical structure, referred to as JAG screening, and can decompose a large network into smaller subnetworks in a robust manner, referred to as JAG decomposition. JAG screening and decomposition can reduce the problem size and search space for fine estimation at a later stage. Experiments on both synthetic data and real-world applications show the effectiveness of the proposed framework in large-scale network topology identification and dynamics estimation.
Regulation of T cell-dependent autoantibody production by a γδ T cell line derived from lupus-prone mice

Lupus-prone (MRLxC57BL/6) F(1) mice lacking gammadelta T cells show more severe lupus than their T cell-intact counterparts, suggesting that gammadelta T cells down-modulate murine lupus. To determine the mechanisms for this effect, we assessed the capacity of gammadelta T cell lines derived from spleens of alphabeta T cell-deficient MRL/Mp-Fas(lpr) (MRL/Fas(lpr)) mice to down-regulate anti-dsDNA production generated by CD4(+)alphabeta T helper cell lines and activated B cells from wild-type MRL/Fas(lpr) mice. One line, GD12 (gd TCR(+), CD4(-)CD8(-)), had the capacity to reduce anti-dsDNA production in a contact-dependent manner. GD12 also killed activated MRL/Fas(lpr) (H-2(k)) B cells, with less cytolysis of resting B cells than that generated by in comparison to cytokine-matched gammadelta T cell lines. In addition, GD12 also killed activated B cells derived from C57BL/6-Fas(lpr) (H-2(b)) or beta(2)-microglobulin (beta(2) M)-deficient MRL/Fas(lpr) mice, suggesting cytolysis was neither MHC- nor CD1-restricted. Killing by GD12 was inhibited by anti-TNFalpha and anti-TNF-R1, and partially blocked by anti-gd TCR Fab fragments, but not by anti-FasL, anti-TNF-R2 (p75) or concanamycin A. IL-10 produced by GD12 also partially inhibited alphabeta Th1-dependent but not alphabeta Th2-dependent autoantibody production. These findings prove that we have identtified a gammadelta T cell line that suppresses autoantibody synthesis by alphabeta T-B cell collaboration in vitro.
Diagnosis of injuries after stab wounds to the back and flank.

Background: Historically, patients with deep posterior wounds underwent a formal celiotomy to rule out injury. Currently, we use a policy of selective management. The purpose of this review is to evaluate our experience with selective management to identify potential areas of further improvement. Methods and Results: This study includes 203 patients over a 10-year period. By changing from a policy of mandatory exploration to selective management the total celiotomy rate decreased from 100 to 24% and the therapeutic celiotomy rate increased from 15 to 80%. Conclusions: In stable patients, a diagnostic peritoneal lavage should be performed as the initial diagnostic study. When diagnostic peritoneal lavage is negative, triple contrast computed tomography should be performed to evaluate the remaining retroperitoneal structures. Any suggestion of pericolonic extrav-asation of contrast or air, edema, or hemorrhage must be interpreted as a positive study and prompt consideration for operative exploration.