cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Absolute Priority Rule and Option Theory

Using the language of options, this paper shows how variance in judicial valuation under an unbiased judge may work to the disadvantage of the junior class in Chapter 11 reorganizations. Given liquidity constraints and information barriers, the parties to bankruptcy cases choose Chapter 11 to propose plans to distribute securities of the reorganized debtor instead of cash. In this context, we identify three effects from the valuation variance - the floor, the ceiling, and the feasibility effects - two of which favor the senior class. Our analysis puts in doubt the conventional wisdom (Baird & Bernstein 2006) of a systematic bias of valuation variance in favor of the junior class in Chapter 11 reorganizations. The framework we offer may also enable us to further examine the efficiency of absolute priority.
The appearance of circular DNA after lysogenic induction in Escherichia coli CR34(λ)

A circular (non-ended) form of DNA is synthesized both after ultraviolet light and after thymineless induction of the lysogen Escherichia coli CR34(λ). This new DNA species is shown to have characteristics identical to the circular DNA formed from λ phage DNA immediately after infection. Thus, the formation of a circular λ DNA is not limited to that derived directly from an infecting phage DNA but is also formed during the normal replication of the λ DNA after lysogenic induction. The circular λ DNA formed after lysogenic induction contains no detectable amounts of the bacterial genome. Once formed in the cell, the circular DNA species is stable and not significantly degraded.
Thermal conductivity of polypyromellitimide film with alumina filler particles from 4.2 to 300 K

Abstract The thermal conductivities of several types of a commercial polyimide (namely polypyromellitimide, PPMI) film were measured over a range of temperatures from 4.2 to 300 K with an unguarded steady state parallel-plate apparatus. Specimens were made by stacking multiple layers of film together. Conductive grease was used between the layers of film to reduce thermal contact resistance. Two specimens were made from two different types of neat film with a thickness of 76 μm, and three specimens were made from films that contained two different amounts of alumina filler and had thicknesses of 25 or 76 μm. The conductivity of PPMI film increases with the amount of alumina filler present. The thermal conductivity of specimens made from film of the same type but of different thickness is independent of film thickness, within the limits of experimental uncertainty. The conductivity of a specimen subjected to a simulated curing process by being held at a temperature of 150 °C for 90 min was indistinguishable from that of a similar, control specimen not subjected to such treatment.
Nanomechanics of Electrospun Fibers for Tissue Engineering

Understanding the material properties of the nanofibers comprising electrospun scaffolds for tissue engineering will elucidate the mechanotransduction of cells seeded onto and attached those scaffolds. The overall mechanical properties of any structure built from fibers depend on 1) the architecture, 2) the properties of the constituent single fibers, and 3) the junctions between fibers. All three must be known to design a structure with predictable mechanical properties. We hypothesize that a basic understanding of the nanolevel mechanical properties of individual electrospun fibers will enable accurate prediction of the overall cellular response and bulk mechanical behavior of electrospun tissue scaffolds.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Transcriptional profiling of Androgen Receptor (AR) mutants suggests instructive and permissive roles of AR signaling in germ cell development

The androgen receptor (AR) is a transcription factor that plays a critical role in male sexual development, spermatogenesis, and maintenance of hormonal homeostasis. Despite the extensive knowledge of the phenotypic consequences of mutations in Ar, very little is known about the transcriptional targets of AR within the testis. To identify potential targets of androgen signaling in the testis, we have analyzed the transcriptional profile of adult testes from Ar hypomorphs alone or in combination with Sertoli cell-specific Ar ablation. Using Affymetrix MOE430A mouse genome arrays we interrogated more than 22,000 transcripts. We found the expression level of 62 transcripts in the Ar mutants differed by greater than 2-fold compared with wild type. We also found that more transcripts were up-regulated than down-regulated, highlighting AR's role as a transcriptional repressor in the testis. Twelve transcripts were uniquely affected, and 16 transcripts were more severely affected in Sertoli cell-specific Ar ablation compared with hypomorphic Ar mutants. Using a comparative genomic approach, we analyzed the 6 kb around the transcriptional start sites of affected transcripts for conserved AREs (androgen response elements). We identified at least one conserved ARE in 65% of the genes misregulated in our microarray analysis where clear mouse-human orthologs were available. We used a reporter assay in cell culture to functionally verify the AREs for the kallikrein 27 gene. This suggests that the majority of the misregulated transcripts have a high probability of being direct AR targets. The transcripts affected by these Ar mutations encode a diverse array of proteins whose molecular functions support the contention that AR supports spermatogenesis in both a permissive and instructive fashion.
THE INTERACTION EFFECT IN n-p CAPTURE

Abstract The non-relativistic prediction of the n-p capture cross section at a neutron laboratory velocity of 2200 m/sec is evaluated as 302.5±4.0 mb assuming that r s np = 2.73±0.03 fm as predicted by charge independence, or 308.5±5.0 mb if r s np = 2.44±0.11 fm. The smaller value for r s np , derived from the two most recent n-p total cross section measurements, raises serious difficulties with the hypothesis of charge independence, which are discussed. The prediction includes corrections for the shape dependence of the triplet effective range, the deuteron D state probability, and the intermediate range behaviour of the wave functions, which contribute half the quoted uncertainty; these corrections are model independent to within that uncertainty if the longest range part of the interaction is due to one-pion exchange. The experimental value of 334.2±0.5 mb obtained by Cox, Wynchank and Collie therefore shows an interaction effect of 9.5±1.2% (or 7.7±1.5%). A recently proposed approximation based on dispersion theory which would, if accepted, explain two-thirds of the effect, is shown to be quantitatively inadequate. Hence covariant calculations which reduce to this approximation must be rejected, except for those parts of the calculation which give meson current corrections. Stranahan predicts a 2.9% correction coming from the π-N 33 resonance, while the calculation of M. H. Skolnick, interpreted as indicated, gives a non-resonant contribution of 2.2%. Even if these effects could be added, a substantial part of the meson current contribution remains unexplained. It is suggested that at least part of this residual effect might be due to the large π-γ-ϱ coupling recently invoked by Adler and Drell to account for the static magnetic moment of the deuteron and the large forward photopion production cross section in the multi-GeV region.
Modeling staring thermal systems with FLIR92

With the increasing availability and applicability of staring focal plane array (FPA) thermal imagers, the accurate modeling of these sensors is a critical requirement within the infrared community. The FLIR92 sensor performance model, developed by the U.S. Army Night Vision and Electronic Sensors Directorate (NVESD), provides the capability to predict laboratory performance for staring FPA thermal imagers. FLIR92 uses readily available system level parameters to predict the device MRTD and MDTD. This paper illustrates the techniques used in the model by evaluating performance for a staring FPA thermal imager.
A Plasmodium vinckei cysteine proteinase shares unique features with its Plasmodium falciparum analogue.

Abstract The gene encoding a cysteine proteinase of the murine parasite Plasmodium vinckei has been identified and characterized. The gene encodes a papain-family proteinase that shares unique features with a previously described P. falciparum cysteine proteinase. We hypothesize that both enzymes mediate the hydrolysis of hemoglobin, and perhaps other Plasmodium -specific functions.
Post-Newtonian behavior of the Bondi mass.

We present an algorithm for calculating the Bondi mass, based upon renormalized variables, which converges at second order in grid size. The algorithm is highly effective in exploring both the Newtonian and strong field limits of general relativity. In particular, we study a quasi-Newtonian system with gravitational radiation. The algorithm allows calculation of the Newtonian mass and mechanical energy and joins smoothly to a post-Newtonian expansion of the Bondi mass carried out through terms of $O({\ensuremath{\lambda}}^{7})$. At higher $\ensuremath{\lambda}$, the computed mass peels away and shows markedly non-Newtonian behavior. It remains strictly positive, in contrast to the post-Newtonian expansion.
SU‐E‐J‐11: ExacTrac Setup Uncertainties in Intracranial and HN Patients: Comparison with CT‐On‐Rail

Purpose: To evaluate the accuracy of ExacTrac system based setup in intracranial and HN patients, and provide quantitative data to reduce PTV margin. Methods: The accuracy of ExacTrac system based patient setup depends on both the excellence of its image registration and the reliability of the congruence of its image isocenter with the linac radiation isocenter. The accuracy of ExacTrac system's image registration was studied by marking the ExacTrac determined isocenter (< 1mm residual translation, and < 2 degree residual rotation) with 2 mm in diameter BBs using the room laser and comparing it with CT determined isocenter. CT‐on‐rail was used to acquire the 3D‐data using the same scan parameters as the planning CT. An in‐house software registered the daily CT with the planning CT on the fly and calculated the difference between the CT determined isocenter and BB marked isocenter. The small residual rotations were manually examined with the in‐house software using boney landmark. A total of 68 fractions spread over 12 patients were used in this study. Short Orfit masks were used as the patient immobilization device. Both daily and weekly QA were performed to ensure the agreement between the laser and Exactrac image isocenter was within 1 mm. Results: The distance between ExacTrac and CT‐on‐rail determined isocenter were 1.66±0.9 mm with 95% less than 3 mm. For the small residual rotation angle detected by the ExacTrac, CT data also showed good agreement. ExacTrac snap data between beams of an IMRT delivery demonstrated the intra‐fraction motion can be controlled within 2 mm Conclusions: CT data confirmed that ExacTrac can accurately setup both intracranical and HN patients. PTV margin for patients with the Orfit masks can be reduced to 3 mm based on the image isocenter QA, image registration accuracy and motion tracking ability of ExacTrac system.
Optimal price policy and the futures markets

Abstract Because of the short-term nature of existing commodity futures contracts, optimally hedged producers remain subject to intertemporal income uncertainty, but price stabilization may be detrimental because it negates the benefits of intertemporal production flexibility. Multiperiod futures would be preferred to price stabilization, although they would not provide perfect hedging opportunities, thus leaving scope for government intervention. The optimal price policy requires the support price to be positively correlated to the futures price that prevails when production decisions are made.
Miscibility, phase separation, and volumetric properties in solutions of poly(dimethylsiloxane) in supercritical carbon dioxide

Miscibility conditions and volumetric properties of solutions of poly(dimethylsiloxane) in supercritical carbon dioxide have been determined as a function of polymer molecular weight, polymer concentration, temperature, and pressure. Measurements have been conducted in a variable volume view cell equipped with an LVDT sensor to identify the position of a movable piston and thus the internal volume of the cell and consequently the density of the solution at a given pressure and temperature. The demixing data (in the form of P-T curves for a given concentration, or as P-x diagrams at a given T) and the density isotherms are presented for solutions of two polymer samples with different molecular weights (Mw = 38,600; Mw/Mn = 2.84 and Mw = 94,300; Mw/Mn = 3.01) at several concentrations in the range from 0.05 to 10 mass % over a temperature range from 302–425 K. Solution densities corresponding to the demixing points also have been identified. Representation of the demixing densities on the density isotherms, i.e., pressure-density plots is a new methodology that gives a direct assessment of the volumetric expansion the solution must undergo before phase separation. The temperature–composition diagrams generated at selected pressures show that the poly(dimethylsiloxane) + CO2 solutions display both lower critical solution and upper critical solution type behavior. The lower critical solution temperature moves to lower temperatures and the upper critical solution temperature moves to higher temperatures with decreasing pressure and they eventually merge together at lower pressures forming an hourglass-shaped region of immiscibility. This behavior is linked to the solvent quality of supercritical carbon dioxide that changes with pressure. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 75: 1397–1403, 2000
Selected highlights from the Extreme Ultraviolet Explorer

We present a few scientific highlights from the Extreme Ultraviolet Explorer (EUVE) all-sky and deep surveys, from the EUVE Righ Angle Program, and from the EUVE Guest Observer Program. The First EUVE Source Catalog includes 410 extreme ultraviolet (EUV) sources detected in the initial processing of the EUVE all-sky data. A program of optical identification indicates that counterparts include cool star coronae, flare stars, hot white dwarfs, central stars of planetary nebulae, B star photospheres and winds, an X-ray binary, extragalactic objects (active galactic nuclei, BL Lacertae), solar system objects (Moon, Mars, Io,), supernova remnants, and two novae.
Semiempirical molecular orbital calculations with linear system size scaling

Details are provided for the implementation of a density matrix divide‐and‐conquer approximation into the framework of molecular orbital theory on nonperiodic systems. Originally developed for density functional theory, the divide‐and‐conquer procedure is one of the most promising in a growing list of techniques that exhibit linear scaling with respect to the number of basis functions in the system. The key to linear scaling is the division of the electronic structure calculation into a series of calculations over a set of small, overlapping subsystems. A semiempirical molecular orbital program designed around the divide‐and‐conquer approach has been written and a number of tests are carried out on polyglycine structures in order to evaluate its performance. For the systems examined, linear scaling is indeed observed, and the accuracy of the calculations can be controlled quite readily by the manner in which the system is divided into its component subsystems. For very large structures, the expense associated with the computation of two‐center interactions will ultimately dominate the calculation, and quadratic scaling will become apparent. Techniques to linearize this aspect of the calculation are investigated and discussed.
Targeted delivery of immunomicrospheres in vivo

AbstractThe feasibility of targeted delivery of bioactive agents using microspheres made of enzymatically degradable gelatin/chondroitin sulfate was investigated. The microspheres, synthesized by complex coacervation under mild aqueous conditions, exhibited high loading level for a variety of agents. Monoclonal anti-bodies against P-glycoprotein (Pgp), lymphocyte function associated antigen-1 (LFA-1), and thrombomodulin (TM) were attached to the microsphere surface using avidin and biotin as the linkage system. Anti-Pgp mAb-coated microsphere encapsulated with photofrin II destroyed Pgp-positive KB-V-1 cells 24 times more efficient as compared to the free drug in vitro. The binding and destruction of KB-V-1 cells were cell tar-get selective and antibody dependent. Electron microscopy studies showed that colloidal gold-encapsulated microspheres coated with anti-Pgp mAb were internalized by KB-V-1 cells within 4 h after binding. The target selectability of this immunomicrosphere delivery system was also dem...
Effects of annual grass senescence on 15NH4+ and 15N-glycine uptake by blue oak (Quercus douglasii) seedlings and soil microorganisms in California oak woodland

Abstract Annual grasses are stronger competitors for available soil N than blue oak seedlings and soil microorganisms. However, little is known about the dynamics of N competition during annual grass senescence. We conducted a field experiment in a California oak woodland to study effects of annual grass senescence on N uptake by grasses, blue oak seedlings and soil microorganisms. Labeled N was applied at the beginning of April, May and of June in the form of 15NH4+ or 15N-glycine. Plants and soils were harvested after 5 days (15NH4+ and 15N-glycine treatments) and after 26 days (15NH4+ treatment only). We evaluated effects of N form, season and labeling period on N competition among oak seedlings, annual grasses and soil microorganisms. N forms did not affect competition among grasses, oak seedlings and soil microorganisms, but more 15N was incorporated into the soil organic N pool in the 15N-glycine treatments than in the 15NH4+ treatments. There were no seasonal (May vs June) effects on 15N recovery in blue oak seedlings and soil microorganisms. Plant samples from April harvest were lost. In June, when grasses were senescing, more 15N was found in the soil inorganic pool than in May. Extremely dry soils in June may have limited inorganic N availability to oak seedlings and soil microorganisms. After 26-day labeling period, 15N recovery in blue oak seedlings and the soil organic N pool significantly increased, while 15N recovery in both the soil microbial and inorganic N pools decreased compared to the 5-day labeling period. Although blue oak seedling biomass changed little from early May to late June, N concentrations in oak roots increased 53%. In contrast, annual grass biomass peaked in May, and then decreased rapidly. Our results suggest that blue oak seedlings and annual grasses have different temporal competitive abilities. Blue oak seedlings appear to have a long-term strategy for N competition. Blue oaks take up N slowly but steadily, increasing N uptake from 5 to 26 days. This extended time period has a greater positive effect on N uptake than does reduced grass uptake caused by senescence.
Expression of p14ARF, p15INK4b, p16INK4a, and DCR2 increases during prostate cancer progression

Prostate carcinoma is a hormonally driven age-related neoplasm. Cellular senescence is an age-related process where cells remain metabolically active but in a growth-arrested state at the G1 phase. p14(ARF), p15(INK4b), and p16(INK4a), which are known to regulate G1 cell cycle arrest, and the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member decoy receptor 2 (DCR2), have been recently identified as senescence markers. The purpose of this study was to characterize and compare the expression of p14(ARF), p15(INK4b), p16(INK4a), and DCR2 in tissue microarrays containing cases of normal prostate, nodular hyperplasia, prostate intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN), and malignant prostate cancer tissue. We performed immunohistochemical staining for p14(ARF), p15(INK4b), p16(INK4a), and DCR2 in tissue microarray blocks containing 41 cores of normal prostate, 65 cores of nodular hyperplasia, 21 cores of PIN, 69 cores of low-grade prostate carcinoma, and 42 cores of high-grade prostate carcinoma, derived from 80 cases of prostatectomy with adenocarcinomas. We detected positive staining of p16(INK4a) in 19% of the PIN, 25% of the low-grade carcinoma, and 43% of the high-grade carcinoma specimens but none in the normal prostate and nodular hyperplasia specimens. Expression of p14(ARF) revealed very high levels of expression in normal tissues (83%), nodular hyperplasia (88%), PIN (89%), and cancer cells (100%). P15(INK4b) and DCR2 were found positive in 81 and 33% normal, 46 and 10% nodular hyperplasia, 74 and 36% PIN tissues, 87 and 89% low-grade carcinomas, and 100 and 93% high-grade carcinomas. There is an increased protein expression of senescence-associated molecular markers, indicating that cellular senescence might play a role in prostate carcinoma. Because p16(INK4a)-positive cells were detected only in premalignant lesions and carcinomas but not in normal or benign tissues, p16(INK4a) may aid in the diagnosis of PIN and prostate cancer in difficult cases.
Synthesis of oxocenones from δ -lactones and their conversion to transposed oxocenes by a reductive ferrier reaction

Abstract The ring expansion of δ-lactones into oxocenones by the insertion of an acetylene is reported. A reductive Ferrier reaction can be employed to convert these products into transposed oxocenes.
Examination Effects in Audiometric Testing of Children

Serial AC threshold data recorded at 6-month intervals in 261 children aged 6 to 18 years have been analyzed for examination effects. After excluding effects of age, linear examination effects are shown by a multivariate analysis of variance for repeated measures and by a regression method. The findings indicate that hearing sensitivity improves with repeated examination. In the present data, the cumulative examination effects for eight examinations at 6-month intervals approximate 3 dB at 0.5, 1, and 2 kHz and 5 dB at 4 and 6 kHz. The effects are larger in the right ear than in the left ear, but there is no significant sex difference. The recorded serial data have been adjusted for the estimated examination effects prior to further analyses.
Rhetoric and Dialogue in Hopkins's “Spring and Fall: To a Young Child”: An Approach through Burke and Levinas

The epideictic genre of rhetoric has traditionally included public, ceremonial types of rhetoric, such as eulogies and public speeches, that affirm communities. Public memorials and even lyric poetry, however, also epideictically constitute personal and communal identities. When read through the theoretical lenses of Kenneth Burke and Emmanuel Levinas, Gerard Manley Hopkins's poem “Spring and Fall: To a Young Child” seems to evoke a public, communal attitude in readers. This epideictic effect challenges the conventional dichotomy between public and private audiences, inviting us to think more broadly about epideictic rhetoric and its audiences.
High-temperature in situ 11B NMR study of network dynamics in boron-containing glass-forming liquids

Abstract In situ high-temperature nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy can be very useful for probing changes in structure and dynamics in glass-forming liquids, and is a unique method for observing chemical exchange among structural species ( e.g. BO 3 –BO 4 , Q n –Q n+1 , and NBO–BO) at the seconds to microseconds time scales. High-temperature 11 B MAS NMR line shape measurements were made at about 100 K above the glass transitions on (Na 2 O) 0.3 (B 2 O 3 ) 0.7 and (Na 2 O) 0.2 (B 2 O 3 ) 0.21 (Al 2 O 3 ) 0.08 (SiO 2 ) 0.51 glass-forming liquids. BO 3 and BO 4 groups are well resolved in 11 B MAS NMR spectra at 14.1 T with sample spinning at 5000 Hz. At higher temperatures, partial peak coalescence occurred due to exchange of BO 3 and BO 4 . Temperature effects on borate speciation were also determined by varying the fictive temperature ( T f ) of glasses, where T f estimated from differential scanning calorimetry measurements. We combined these complementary data sets to model structural exchange in the liquid state. The time scale of BO 3 –BO 4 exchange from NMR data, τ NMR , appears to be “decoupled” from that of the macroscopic shear relaxation process τ s derived from the viscosity, however, at higher temperatures, τ s approaches τ NMR . The “decoupling” at lower temperature may be related to intermediate-range compositional heterogeneities, and/or fast modifier cation diffusivities which trigger “unsuccessful” network exchange events.
Characterization of genes encoding hydroxypyruvate reductase in cucumber.

Several clones corresponding to the gene encoding NADH-dependent hydroxypyruvate reductase have been isolated from a cucumber genomic library. Restriction mapping indicates the presence of two HPR genes, hpr-A and hpr-B, in the cucumber genome. Examination of the DNAs of individual plants suggests that hpr-A and hpr-B are most likely alleles at a single locus. The sequence of a 6.7 kb genomic fragment that includes the entire transcribed region, 2.2 kb of 5′ flanking sequence, and about 0.8 kb of 3′ flanking sequence reveals the presence of 12 introns in hpr-A. These introns are AT-rich relative to the exons. The donor sequence at the 5′ end of the sixth intron contains an unusual dinucleotide, GC, rather than the nearly invariant GT. Primer extension analysis maps the transcription initiation site to 61 nucleotides upstream of the translation initiation codon. An AT-rich stretch is centered at position −31 with respect to the transcription initiation site, and a potential CCAAT box is centered at position −138. Several elements that are homologous to regulatory elements of other plant genes have been identified in the flanking regions of hpr-A.
Shocking the stressed planet into better governance

Reading Joseph Camilleri and Jim Falk's erudite Worlds in Transition: Evolving Governance across a Stressed Planet 1 is humbling. The ambitious scope of their massive and original synthesis goes fa...
Reproducibility of Echocardiographic Diagnosis of Left Ventricular Noncompaction

Background Left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC) cardiomyopathy is variably defined by numerous trabeculations, deep intertrabecular recesses, and noncompacted-to-compacted (NC/C) ratio >2. Limited studies exist on the reproducibility of diagnosing LVNC. Methods Clinical records of patients diagnosed with LVNC by echocardiography were reviewed. Blinded review of the index echocardiogram for all patients and a 1:1 match without LVNC was performed independently by two observers, measuring the number of trabeculations and the NC/C ratio. Results A total of 104 patients with LVNC were included in the study, 52 with no congenital heart disease (NCongHD) and 52 with congenital heart disease (CongHD). The duration of follow-up was 7.2 years (range, 0.5–23.1 years) for NCongHD and 8.2 years (range, 0–33.3 years) for CongHD. Agreement between observers in determining zero to three versus more than three trabeculations was 59% (NCongHD) and 73% (CongHD). Agreement in measuring an NC/C ratio ≤ 2 versus > 2 was 79% (NCongHD) and 74% (CongHD). Agreement with the original reader in diagnosing LVNC was 67%. There was no association between the number of trabeculations or the NC/C ratio and the likelihood of a major event. Patients with moderate or severe left ventricular dysfunction at the time of diagnosis were more likely to undergo cardiac transplantation or die compared with those with normal or mild dysfunction (NCongHD, 22% vs 0%, P = .01; CongHD, 39% vs 3%, P = .001). Conclusions The reproducibility of making measurements to diagnose LVNC by accepted criteria is poor. Heart transplantation and death are associated with significant ventricular dysfunction and not with increased trabeculations or NC/C ratios.
A comprehensive study of the spatiotemporal pattern of β-amyloid precursor protein mRNA and protein in the rat brain: lack of modulation by exogenously applied nerve growth factor

Nerve growth factor (NGF) is a neurotrophic factor for basal forebrain cholinergic neurons, a population that degenerates and dies in Alzheimer's disease (AD). It has been suggested that NGF be used to treat AD patients. However, in vivo administration of NGF to the developing hamster brain was shown to induce the expression of the β-amyloid precursor protein (βAPP) gene. The association of alterations in βAPP gene expression with AD-like neuropathological changes and cognitive impairment in animals, and with AD-like neurodegeneration in Down syndrome patients suggests that NGF-mediated increases in βAPP expression could negate or attenuate NGF's neurotrophic activity in AD treatment trials. The present study was undertaken to explore further the influence of NGF on βAPP expression, and to determine which, if any, of the βAPP mRNAs is altered in response to NGF treatment. We first examined the spatiotemporal pattern of βAPP-695 and Kunitz protease inhibitor (KPI)-containing βAPP mRNA expression in the rat brain. Specific oligonucleotide probes were used to show that these mRNAs are present during embryonic development. In addition, we evaluated postnatal expression in nine brain regions and showed that βAPP mRNAs were readily detected in all regions at postnatal day 2. In human brain, the relative levels of βAPP-695 and βAPP-KPI mRNA and their protein are discordant, in that the level of βAPP-695 mRNA is slightly higher than that of βAPP-KPI, but βAPP-KPI protein predominates. In contrast, the several-fold excess of βAPP-695 mRNA relative to βAPP-KPI mRNA in the rat brain was also reflected at the protein level. Surprisingly, administration of exogenous NGF failed to affect rat βAPP mRNA levels either in vitro or during postnatal development in vivo.
Motor vehicle injuries among semi truck drivers and sleeper berth passengers.

Abstract Introduction Injuries and fatalities due to large truck and other vehicle crashes have decreased over the last decade, but motor vehicle injuries remain a leading cause of death for both the working and general populations. The present study was undertaken to determine semi truck driver and sleeper berth passenger injury risk in a moving semi truck collision using a matched-pair cohort study. Method Study data were obtained from the Kentucky Collision Report Analysis for Safer Highways (CRASH) electronic files for 2000–2010. A matched-pair cohort study was used to compare the odds of injury of both drivers and sleeper berth passengers within the same semi truck controlling for variables specific to the crash or the semi truck. The crude odds ratio of injury was estimated and a statistical model for a correlated outcome using generalized estimating equations was utilized. Results In a moving semi truck collision, the odds for an injury were increased by 2.25 times for both semi truck drivers and sleeper berth passengers who did not use occupant safety restraints compared to semi truck drivers and sleeper berth passengers who used occupant safety restraints at the time of the collision. The driver seat or sleeper berth position in the vehicle was not a significant factor (p-value = 0.31) associated with a moving semi truck collision injury. Conclusion Nonuse of occupant safety restraints by either drivers or sleeper berth passengers significantly increased the odds of an injury in a moving semi truck collision; semi truck seating position (driver's seat or sleeper berth) did not increase the odds for an injury in moving collisions. Impact on Industry Trucking companies should include the mandatory use of occupant safety restraints by both semi truck drivers and sleeper berth passengers in their company safety policies.
Cross-correlation digital registration techniques for multispectral cell images

Abstract Several variants of the cross-correlation technique of automatic digital image registration are tested and compared on a set of multispectral images of lymphoblastic bone marrow cells. Factors investigated are normalization, application of a gradient and subtraction of the average image density from each image point. Several of the variants are shown to have low error rates. A gradient method requiring a small degree of manual intervention is concluded to be the most sensitive approach.
CHARACTERIZATION OF REPETITIVE DNA ELEMENTS IN ARABIDOPSIS

We have applied computational methods to the available database and identified several families of repetitive DNA elements in the Arabidopsis thaliana genome. While some of the elements have features expected of either miniature inverted-repeat transposable elements (MITEs) or retrotransposons, the most abundant class of repetitive elements, the AthE1 family, is structurally related to neither. The AthE1 family members are defined by conserved 5' and 3' sequences, but these terminal sequences do not represent either inverted or direct repeats. AthE1 family members with greater than 98% identity are easily identified on different Arabidopsis chromosomes. Similar to nonautonomous DNA-based transposon families, the AthE1 family contains members in which the conserved terminal domains flank unrelated sequences. The primary utility of characterizing repetitive sequences is in defining, at least in part, the evolutionary architecture of specific Arabidopsis loci. The repetitive elements described here make up approximately 1% of the available Arabidopsis thaliana genomic sequence.
The Idiom--Reference Connection

Idiom processing and reference resolution are two complex aspects of text processing that are commonly treated in isolation. However, closer study of the reference needs of some idioms suggests that these two phenomena will need to be treated together to support high-end NLP applications. Using evidence from Russian and English, this article describes a number of classes of idioms according to their reference needs and suggests a method of lexical encoding which, supplemented by procedural semantic routines, can adequately support the full semantic and referential interpretation of these idioms.
Pigmentary maculopathy in a patient with Wolfram syndrome

Abstract Case report: We describe a rare association of pigmentary maculopathy with Wolfram syndrome not previously reported in the literature. A 12-year-old boy presented to the retina service with a diagnosis of Wolfram syndrome and a history of poor central vision.The patient was found to have bilateral atrophic pigmentary maculopathy that was confirmed with fluorescein angiography. Comments: Wolfram syndrome may present with a pigmentary maculopathy and this rare finding may assist the clinician in making appropriate genetic referral when this diagnosis is suspected.
New Results in Understanding Performance and Vulnerability in Complex Networks

New results can be obtained about performance and vulnerability of complex networks through the common intersection of the fields of graph theory, information theory, and optimization theory. Graph theory provides a basis of architecture and also constraint relationships for key flow variables. Information theory provides measures and metrics of flow performance. The optimization of complex networks is accomplished via genetic algorithms on the flow variables. By performing a minimum flow and maximum flow optimization, a sensitivity matrix of vulnerabilities of a network can be ascertained. Thus the most vulnerable set of nodes can be determined. This procedure is first applied to a logistics network. The generalization to communication's networks and other distributed complex systems is discussed.
Combination Therapy Using Exercise and Pharmaceutical Agents to Optimize Bone Health

Aging is associated with a reduction in bone strength and resultant increase in low trauma fractures. These so-called osteoporotic fractures represent a prominent and growing societal problem. To reduce the individual and societal cost of osteoporosis there is a need for efficacious interventions. Two frequently prescribed interventions are load-bearing exercise and pharmaceutical agents. These modalities have similar, yet somewhat contrasting influences on the underlying processes responsible for bone health. Exercise affects both osteoblastic bone formation and osteoclastic bone resorption to have both anabolic and anti-resorptive effects. Pharmaceutical agents target these processes also; however, they are typically specific to one process or the other. For instance, anti-resorptive agents such as bisphosphonates target osteoclast-mediated bone resorption, whereas anabolic agents such as intermittent parathyroid hormone (PTH) target osteoblast-mediated bone formation. In light of the similar targets of both exercise and pharmaceutical agents, questions have been raised of whether combining the two modalities may result in greater enhancements in bone health than with their isolated introduction. This article discusses the tissue-level processes regulating bone health, mechanisms of action of exercise and pharmaceutical agents, and rationale and current evidence for combined exercise and pharmaceutical intervention for optimizing bone health.
Identification of the pigment in amniotic fluid of erythroblastosis as bilirubin

The yellow pigment found in amniotic fluid obtained from pregnancies with fetusesaffected with erythroblastosis behaves in exactly the same manner as does bilirubin on spectrophotometric scanning and diazotization after chloroform extraction and when developed by reverse phase kieselguhr column chromatography.
Molecular dynamics simulation of oligosaccharides containing N‐acetyl neuraminic acid

alpha D-N-acetyl neuraminic acid (Neu5Ac, sialic acid) is a commonly occurring carbohydrate residue in various cell surface glycolipids and glycoproteins. This residue is linked terminally or internally to Gal residues via an alpha(2-->3) or alpha(2-->6) linkage. In the cell surface receptor, sialyl-LewisX, a terminal alpha(2-->3) linkage is present. Previous studies from our laboratory have shown that in solution LewisX adopts a relatively rigid structure. In order to model the Neu5Ac residue, vacuum molecular dynamics of this monosaccharide were compared with simulations that explicitly include solvent water. The dynamical average of the monosaccharide conformation obtained from the two simulations was similar. Vacuum calculations for the disaccharide Neu5Ac alpha(2-->3) Gal beta-O-methyl show that a number of low energy minima are accessible to this disaccharide. Molecular dynamics simulations starting from the low energy minima show conformational transitions with a time scale of 10-50 ps among several of the minima while large barriers between other minima prevent transitions on the time scale studied. Simulations of this disaccharide in the presence of solvent show fewer conformational transitions, illustrating a dampening effect of the solvent that has been observed in some other studies. Our results are most consistent with an equilibrium among multiple conformations for the Neu5Ac alpha(2-->3) Gal beta linkage.
Observations on the lifespans of several species of annual fishes and of the world's smallest fishes

Abstract Three species of South American annual fishes ( Cynolebias adloffi, C. bellottii and C. wolterstorffi ) were maintained in the laboratory at 15–16°C and 20–22°C. They grew faster, reached a larger eventual size and lived up to twice as long at the lower temperature range. Two species of gobies, collected as adults and representing the smallest known species of vertebrates, lived one to two years in the laboratory. The potential lifespan of these minute fish is probably greater than that of the annuals, suggesting that a strict relationship between body size and longevity does not obtain in teleosts.
Chemical Hydrides for Hydrogen Storage in Fuel Cell Applications

Due to its high hydrogen storage capacity (up to 19.6% by weight for the release of 2.5 molar equivalents of hydrogen gas) and its stability under typical ambient conditions, ammonia borane (AB) is a promising material for chemical hydrogen storage for fuel cell applications in transportation sector. Several systems models for chemical hydride materials such as solid AB, liquid AB and alane were developed and evaluated at PNNL to determine an optimal configuration that would meet the 2010 and future DOE targets for hydrogen storage. This paper presents an overview of those systems models and discusses the simulation results for various transient drive cycle scenarios.
Ni-base superalloy rods pulled from melts

Abstract Rods of a Ni-base superalloy PWA-1480 were pulled in the [100] direction with a uniform diameter of 1.3 cm by using a floating-shaper with temperature control of the shaper aperture. The growth process was observed. The resultant dendritic microstructure was examined, including the primary dendrite spacing and the secondary dendrite arm spacing.
Microchimerism and tolerance after in utero bone marrow transplantation in mice.

Abstract Background.Donor-specific tolerance has been induced after both fetal and neonatal hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplantation in mice. However, the relationship between hematopoietic microchimerism and tolerance in these models has not been defined due to the insensitivity of donor cell detection methodology. To address this problem we developed a semiquantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based assay for detection of microchimerism after major histocompatibility (MHC) class I disparate HSC transplantation. This assay was used to examine the relationship between microchimerism and tolerance after fetal and neonatal transplantation of fully allogeneic bone marrow cells. Materials and methods.C57BL/6 mice (H2-Kb) were used as adult bone marrow donors and Balb/c mice (H2-Kd) were used as fetal or newborn recipients. A dose of 1010BM cells/kg was injected intraperitoneally into recipient animals. Peripheral blood of animals which survived beyond 3 weeks of age was analyzed by PCR for the presence of donor MHC class I DNA. Tolerance was tested by placement of donor-specific skin grafts after determination of chimerism status. Results.Our assay was found to be specific for H2-Kb donor cells in an H2-Kd background with a sensitivity of Conclusions.Our results indicate the following. ( 1 ) Hematopoietic microchimerism can be detected by PCR in peripheral blood afterin uteroinjection of fully allogeneic HSCs. ( 2 ) Fetal injections yield a higher incidence of microchimerism than newborn injections. ( 3 ) Tolerance can be induced across a fully allogeneic barrier byin uteroHSC transplantation and this is associated with the presence of peripheral blood microchimerism.
Effects of morphological variations of chicken models on sexual responses of cocks

Abstract Twenty sexually active White Leghorn males were individually confronted with modified taxidermic models of receptive White Leghorn hens. Test models varied in terms of presence or absence of a body, a head, and a tail, and in terms of the position of the head or tail. Responses of each male to the test models were recorded. A standard model was incorporated into each test to facilitate comparisons and to indicate the performance level of the roosters in each trial. The presence or absence of the tail had little effect on the level of sexual response or the completeness of sexual patterns. When present, a prone position of the tail tended to raise the level of sexual behaviour; its presence aided in orientating the sexual pattern. The body or head were primary factors releasing sexual behaviour and as such their presence or position on a model determined the level of behaviour. If the head was in a prone position on the body; it seemed to have more stimulus value than when erect. Test results suggest that the body was necessary for releasing complete sexual patterns. In addition, proper orientation of the sexual pattern occurred when the head was present.
Plasmonic modulator for three-dimensional chip-to-chip optical interconnects

We present a surface-normal plasmonic modulator structure for three-dimensional (3-D) optical interconnects using subwavelength metallic photonic crystals. Optical transmission of the metallic slab was controlled by modulating the plasmonic bandgap of the metallic photonic crystal slab with a moderate index perturbation induced by thermo-optic effects. Our experimental results show that more than 60% modulation depth is achieved with only an index modulation of 0.0043.
Graphical User Interfaces in an Engineering Educational Environment

Graphical user interfaces (GUIs) are being increasingly used in the classroom to provide users of computer simulations with a friendly and visual approach to specifying all input parameters and increased configuration flexibility. In this study, the authors first describe a number of software and language options that are available to build GUIs. Subsequently, a comprehensive comparative assessment of possible alternatives is under- taken in the light of a benchmark educational program used in a course on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) at the University of Michigan. For the GUIs presented, their educational value with respect to flexible data entry and post-processing of results has been demonstrated. In addition, the authors offer recommendations for pros and cons of available options in terms of platform independence, ease of programming, facilitation of interaction with students, and
Electroporation and transcutaneous extraction (ETE) for pharmacokinetic studies of drugs

Abstract The therapeutic activity and toxicity of drugs often depends on the accumulation of drugs in the peripheral anatomical compartment rather than the central compartment. In the routine practice of therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) and pharmacokinetic studies, drug concentration determined by intermittent blood sampling is used as a surrogate for calculating the drug concentration in the peripheral compartment tissues. Microdialysis, a relatively less invasive procedure, has been used for estimation of free drug levels in dermal, subcutaneous and muscle tissues. Transcutaneous extraction of drugs from the dermal tissue is a good noninvasive alternative to phlebotomy and microdialysis. This requires a technique, which can facilitate the extraction of significant and reproducible amounts of drugs from the dermal extracellular fluid (ECF) within a short sampling duration. In the present work, we assessed the feasibility of electroporation and transcutaneous extraction (ETE) method for determining the time course of drugs in dermal ECF, using salicylic acid (SA) as a test drug. Electroporation protocol was optimized based on the in vitro diffusion studies of salicylic acid across rat skin. The concentration-time profile of total SA was determined in rats after a single i.v. bolus administration. The in vivo permeability coefficient ( P in vivo ) of rat skin was determined under steady state plasma concentration of drug created by i.v. bolus followed by constant rate infusion of SA. The pharmacokinetic parameters of the drug were determined using a two-compartment pharmacokinetic model. The theoretical predicted time course of free SA in the dermal ECF after a single i.v. bolus administration was calculated using standard formulae. The concentration of free SA determined by ETE is in good agreement with that calculated using two-compartment pharmacokinetic model. This study thus provides a credible evidence for the validity of ETE technique for determining the concentration of SA in the dermal ECF.
Cigarette Taxes and Smoking Restrictions: Impacts and Policy Implications

The effects of recently proposed increases in cigarette excise taxes and smoking restrictions on tobacco prices and quantities, quota lease rates, and revenues to tobacco-producing areas are analyzed. The price elasticity of demand for U.S. cigarette exports is estimated. Proportionally similar increases in smoking restrictions or cigarette taxes are shown to have effects of similar magnitude on cigarette consumption. A policy of reducing price instead of the quantity produced is found to minimize the impact of increased taxes and smoking restrictions on revenues to tobacco-producing areas.