cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Firearms, bullets, and wound ballistics: An imaging primer

Based on its intrinsic mass and velocity, a bullet has an upper limit of wounding potential. Actual wound severity is a function of the bullet construction and trajectory, as well as the properties of the tissues traversed. Interpreting physicians must evaluate the bullet trajectory and describe patterns of injury resulting from the effect of energy transfer from the projectile into living tissue. A basic understanding of firearms, projectiles, and wound ballistics can help the interpreting physicians in conceptualizing these injuries and interpreting these cases.
Ambiguity and accounting: The elusive link between information and decision making☆

Abstract This paper argues that theories of choice, as reflected in micro economics, n -person game theory, or statistical decision theory, are incomplete and potentially misleading bases for thinking about and modifying the design of information systems, including accounting systems. The argument stems from recent behavioral research on the ambiguities surrounding individual and organizational decision making. It is developed around four simple assertions: (1) Contemporary ideas about information engineering tie strategies for seeking, organizing, and utilizing information to ideas of anticipatory, consequential choice as pictured in decision theory. (2) Behavioral studies of decision making in organizations indicate that the portrayal of decision making and information found in decision theory ignores or significantly underestimates the ambiguities of choice. (3) Analysis of discrepancies between the actual behavior of decision makers and the recommendations of decision theory shows that the behavior often introduces elements of good sense not routinely recognized within the theory, so an information system that is closely articulated with choices in the way anticipated by decision theory is often incomplete. (4) As a result, the engineering of information might profit from conceptions of decision making and information that blend the traditions of theories of choice with an understanding of the traditions of history, culture, and literature.
Antagonism of cholera enterotoxin by anti-inflammatory agents in the rat.

THE treatment of cholera by intravenous fluids and electrolytes is well established and, if instituted before dehydration and shock are irreversible, can completely protect the patient. But in times of large-scale outbreaks neither the personnel nor material (approximately 10–20 l. per patient) is usually available1. Trials of oral fluid and electrolyte replacement therapy have been effective because the absorption of salts, water and carbohydrates are unimpaired by such treatment2–4. This greatly simplifies treatment, but again limitation in the availability of materials and personnel may not allow treatment of all victims during severe epidemics. Since both these methods do not treat the severe diarrhoea but only attempt to replace fluid and electrolyte losses throughout the period (3–5 days) of diarrhoea, the patient is still debilitated and unable to carry on normal activities. A drug which could be given orally to reverse the massive loss of fluid and electrolytes by antagonizing the effect of cholera enterotoxin on secretory mechanisms of the small intestine has been suggested as a rational means to attack cholera with the least number of trained people and equipment5–7.
Calculating amplitudes in transient responses

THE IMPORTANT RESULT in many studies of transient response is the maximum displacement experienced by one or more parts of the system. It is possible to calculate this maximum value directly from the system response function, without inspecting a complete plot of the response.
Human Labor: Vocation to Share and Celebrate Divine Creativity

In the Christian religious tradition, a great deal of study is devoted to the notion of human work and its importance to the world as such. In presenting some general ideas on this topic based almost exclusively on Christian perspective, Rev. Dr. Karekatt has argued that religion throughout the ages has played a decisive role not only in the understanding of human being and his/her surroundings but also in providing them with means and methods of harnessing human labor. With the arrival of modern science and technology however, the Church was faced with immense challenges in order to redefine work ethics and provide the meaning of it that would fit the new and ever increasing development of labor philosophy within modern and secular worldview. This and other questions such as work in the Christian perspective, human being as creation in the image of God and ordained to live in society, and finally work or labor as a fundamental dimension of human existence have been discussed in the present article.
Sunscreen and Melanoma: What Is the Evidence?

effect of up to 10 years.” 1 The P value associated with the Cox regression analysis used to test the hypothesis that the risk of in situ and invasive melanoma together differed between those who used the sunscreen and those who did not was .051, whereas theP value for the risk of invasive melanoma alone (an end point less confounded by variable interpretations of pathologists) was .045. BothP values could be considered of borderline significance. The authors conclude that “our findings provide reassurance… about sunscreen’s ability to prevent melanoma.” There seems to be some contradiction between the authors’ conclusions and the P values that were reported. This brings to mind an article written by Goodman, 3 wherein he reminds us thatP values have historically been considered in two different conceptual frameworks. The first framework, as originally proposed by Fisher, was that the P value is an index or measure of evidence that can be used to measure disagreement between what is observed and what would be expected
Similarity between the transcriptional silencer binding proteins ABF1 and RAP1

The yeast ARS binding factor 1 (ABF1)--where ARS is an autonomously replicating sequence--and repressor/activator protein 1 (RAP1) have been implicated in DNA replication, transcriptional activation, and transcriptional silencing. The ABF1 gene was cloned and sequenced and shown to be essential for viability. The predicted amino acid sequence contains a novel sequence motif related to the zinc finger, and the ABF1 protein requires zinc and unmodified cysteine residues for sequence-specific DNA binding. Interestingly, ABF1 is extensively related to its counterpart, RAP1, and both proteins share a region of similarity with SAN1, a suppressor of certain SIR4 mutations, suggesting that this region may be involved in mediating SIR function at the silent mating type loci.
Isotope effect for diffusion of zinc and copper in aluminum

The isotope effect for the diffusion of copper in aluminum is 0.81 +- 0.05 at 656.9 /sup 0/C and 0.89 +- 0.05 at 584.7 /sup 0/C. The isotope effect for the diffusion of zinc in aluminum increases from approx. 0.35 at 415 /sup 0/C to approx. 0.6 at 654 /sup 0/C with a temperature dependence of 0.1 eV. These results and earlier diffusion data indicate that the impurity-vacancy binding energy is small in aluminum, but they do not resolve the controversy concerning the extent of the divacancy contribution to self-diffusion in aluminum.
Fertilization Rates and Embryonic Death Rates in Cows Bred to Bulls of Different Levels of Fertility

Summary Holstein and Guernsey bulls of different nonreturn rates in artificial insemination have been compared to determine their fertilization rates and to estimate their embryonic death rates. The 64 bulls for which fertilization tests were made on first service heifers had an average nonreturn rate of 65.1%, a fertilization rate of 85.9%), and an embryonic death date, estimated as the per cent of fertilized ova that died, of 21.0%. When the bulls were divided according to nonreturn rates into a high half (67-79%) and a low half (40-66%), they had fertilization rates of 100% and 71.9% (P The differences were not significant between the fertilization rates of the Holsteins (89.2%) and the Guernseys (81.5%). The nonreturn rates of 65.8% and 64.0% were similar. It appears from this study that approximately 40% of all potential young in dairy cattle are lost by 60-90 days after breeding. Their loss may be estimated as 3% due to genital abnormalities of the cow, 9% to defective ova, 12% to failure of fertilization resulting from undetermined causes, and 16% to death of the embryo, all calculated as percentages of the potential young producible by a female group.
THE MECHANISM OF KERNICTERUS—WHO ARE THE REAL CULPRITS?

To examine some common concepts concerning the development of kernicterus a scanning ultracentrifugation technique (450 mμ region) was used to clearly identify that fraction of bilirubin (BR) migrating with the protein (bound BR) and the free fraction. Titration data showed that bovine serum albumin (BSA) and human serum albumin (HSA) at pH 7.4 had an initial binding of 1:1 BR to protein. When more BR was added, binding continued, showing breaks at 4 and 10 in the case of BSA and 3 and 5 with HSA. A significant proportion of BR was in “solution” as aggregates at pH 7.4. As the BR to albumin ratio increased, the BR in “solution” increased. When the pH was reduced to 6.9 the binding of BR to albumin hardly changed but there was a dramatic decrease in the amount of BR in “solution.” It is postulated that the development of kernicterus at acidotic pH is associated with the decrease of solubility of the free BR with partition into lipoidal sites, rather than decreased binding ability of albumin at pH 6.9. Sulfisoxazole and salicylate did not alter BR binding. This is in accord with tissue culture data showing the necessity of drug concentrations 200-300 fold higher than the BR before BR partitioned into cells. Another mechanism is being sought for the enhancement of the development of kernicterus in the presence of these drugs rather than competition. However, hemin did offer competition once a 1:1 ratio was exceeded. (Supported by NIH.)
Inhibition of Insulin Sensitivity by Free Fatty Acids Requires Activation of Multiple Serine Kinases in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes

Insulin receptor substrate (IRS) has been suggested as a molecular target of free fatty acids (FFAs) for insulin resistance. However, the signaling pathways by which FFAs lead to the inhibition of IRS function remain to be established. In this study, we explored the FFA-signaling pathway that contributes to serine phosphorylation and degradation of IRS-1 in adipocytes and in dietary obese mice. Linoleic acid, an FFA used in this study, resulted in a reduction in insulin-induced glucose uptake in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. This mimics insulin resistance induced by high-fat diet in C57BL/6J mice. The reduction in glucose uptake is associated with a decrease in IRS-1, but not IRS-2 or GLUT4 protein abundance. Decrease in IRS-1 protein was proceeded by IRS-1 (serine 307) phosphorylation that was catalyzed by serine kinases inhibitor κB kinase (IKK) and c-JUN NH2-terminal kinase (JNK). IKK and JNK were activated by linoleic acid and inhibition of the two kinases led to prevention of IRS-1 reduction. We demonstrate tha...
Variable transpiration cooling for the thermal management of reusable hypersonic vehicles

Abstract The overall aerodynamic performance of every flying vehicle is strongly dependent on near-wall effects. In the hypersonic regime, the viscous dissipation of the high-enthalpy flow over the vehicle is responsible for the generation of surface temperatures and heat fluxes that can easily exceed the thermo-mechanical limits of current materials. Based on these considerations, it is important to understand the physics that characterize the boundary layer and its interaction with the vehicleʼs surface in order to simulate its behavior for different surface parameters such as the type of material, surface manufacturing, surface coating, wall geometry, mass exchanges, etc. The work presented in this paper is focused on the mass exchanges at the surface, and investigates the cooling effectiveness of the proposed variable transpiration cooling concept for the case of hypersonic laminar boundary layers on a flat plate. A reduced order model that captures the relevant physics has been developed and implemented in a code that solves the Navier–Stokes equations written for stationary, non-reacting, hypersonic laminar boundary layers and neglecting the radiative thermal exchange. The code uses a coupled solution of Self-Similar Method and Difference Differential Method assuming a unitary Prandtl and Lewis number. Selected distributions of the coolant (air) transversal velocity at the wall have been considered to simulate the variable transpiration. The analysis reveals that the constant–linear wall velocity distribution minimizes the wall heat flux (for a specified wall temperature) along the flat plate if the total coolant mass–flow rate is kept constant. In addition, the saw-tooth wall velocity distribution allows for a reduction of nearly 37% of the required coolant mass with respect to the other cases. These results highlight the potential thermal-management implications of this concept applied to hypersonic vehicles. The comparison between the computationally inexpensive reduced order code (AERO-Code) and the high-fidelity Computational Fluid Dynamics code GASP shows similar qualitative and quantitative results on the heat fluxes and shear stresses prediction.
Quantitative analysis of 5HT2C receptor RNA editing patterns in psychiatric disorders

Initially identified as an RNA modification in the anticodon loop of tRNAs from animal, plant and eubacterial origin, the deamination of adenosine-to-inosine by RNA editing has become increasingly recognized as an important RNA processing event to generate diversity in both the transcriptome and proteome and is essential for modulating the activity of numerous proteins critical for nervous system function. Here, we focus on the editing of transcripts encoding the 2C-subtype of serotonin receptor (5HT2C) to generate multiple receptor isoforms that differ in G-protein coupling efficacy and constitutive activity. 5HT2C receptors have been implicated in the regulation of anxiety, components of the stress response, and are thought to play a role in compulsive behavioral disorders, depression and drug addiction. A number of studies have been conducted to assess whether 5HT2C editing is altered in individuals suffering from psychiatric disorders, yet the results from these studies have been inconsistent, and thus inconclusive. This review provides a discussion of the challenges involved with characterizing 5HT2C editing patterns in human postmortem tissue samples and how differences in quantitative methodology have contributed to the observed inconsistencies between multiple laboratories. Additionally, we discuss new high-throughput sequencing tools, which provide an opportunity to overcome previous methodological challenges, and permit reliable systematic analyses of RNA editing in control and pathologic disease states.
Characterization of a human chorionic gonadotropin-like protein from Candida albicans

Studies from our laboratory have demonstrated that human CG (hCG), human LH, (hLH), and an hCG-like protein extracted from Xanthomonas maltophilia were able to induce Candida albicans transition from the blastospore to the germ tube stage. In the present study, we describe the characterization of an hCG-like material extracted from Candida albicans blastospores (CaCGLP), which is potent in inducing transition and presumably represents the endogenous transition-inducing substance. This material was extracted from Candida albicans blastospores with glacial acetic acid and purified by affinity chromatography using a polyclonal rabbit anti-hCG antibody. The product obtained is a 68-kilodalton single band protein, as analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and Western blot analysis. Under reduced conditions a protein smear is seen. Amino acid analysis showed a predominance of glycine (22%), followed by serine (12%), and glutamate (12%). This protein reacted in the following hCG im...
Short-term outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention: effects of stenting and institutional volume shifts.

Abstract Background This study examines how the dissemination of stenting and procedural shifts to high-volume facilities have affected short-term outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods Discharge information from the 1994 and 1997 US Nationwide Inpatient Sample was used. Data from 1994 involved 84,036 angioplasties, 27.3% of which were performed for acute myocardial infarction (AMI), at a time when stents were generally unavailable. Data from 1997 included 118,548 angioplasties, 30.2% of which were performed for AMI and 59% of which involved stenting. Outcomes included same-admission mortality and same-admission bypass grafting surgery (CABG). Results Compared with 1994, in 1997 stents were in widespread use, and there was a significant shift in PCI procedures to high-volume facilities. There was no significant difference in overall mortality rates between 1994 and 1997. However, same-admission CABG rates were lower in 1997 than in 1994 for the AMI group (2.9% vs 4.7%, P P P P =.004). Conclusions Despite the dissemination of stenting and shifts to high-volume facilities, overall mortality rates after PCI have not significantly changed. However, patients undergoing stenting in 1997 had a significantly lower mortality rate than patients who did not undergo stenting, suggesting that stents may prevent inhospital deaths. Furthermore, same-admission CABG rates have decreased dramatically, an association seen with the introduction of stenting, but not with volume shifts. (Am Heart J 2002;144:309-14.)
Post-spill state of the marsh: Remote estimation of the ecological impact of the Gulf of Mexico oil spill on Louisiana Salt Marshes

Abstract One and a half years after the worst oil spill in U.S. history, we present the first quantitative assessment on the ecological impact of the spill on the salt marsh habitats along the southeastern Louisiana (LA) coast. This research combined satellite and ground data to quantify the impact of the oil and dispersant on the salt marshes in terms of their photosynthetic capacity and physiological status over a large spatial scale. Two of the most important marsh biophysical characteristics, including distribution of canopy chlorophyll content and above ground green biomass, were monitored across the southeastern LA coast during the salt marsh growing season (May–October) of 2009 (pre-spill) and 2010 (post-spill) in order to compare and isolate the spill impacted areas. The initial assessment showed that there was a significant post-spill increase in areas with reduced biomass and canopy chlorophyll (> 400 km2) during the 2010 growing season compared to 50–65 km2 during the 2009 growing season. Phenological analysis of the post oil-spill data revealed a significant decrease in the magnitude of biomass and canopy chlorophyll during the peak of the 2010 growing season. June was consistently found to be the worst month in terms of salt marsh health across LA over the 2010 phenological cycle followed by the initial signs of recovery along the fringing marsh areas proximal to the shoreline that were first impacted by oil. Interior marsh patches exhibited persistent signs of stress towards the end of the growing season. Extensive reduction in photosynthetic activity was observed during the peak of the growing season, particularly in Plaquemines Parish and St. Bernard Parish. The products generated through this study successfully delineate the critical hotspots of marsh stress so that prioritization of areas needing immediate restoration can be performed.
Isolation of the 434 Phage Repressor

The repressor protein of the coliphage 434 has been isolated and its properties compared with those of the λ phage repressor.
Commentary on the Article by Rose et al.: Search for the Right Stuff

The exponential progress in unmanned aviation and the emergence of the remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) pilot over the past decade raise the specter of a potential new class of virtual warriors. In ...
MU-Estimation and Smoothing

In the M-estimation theory developed by Huber (1964, Ann. Math. Statist.43, 1449?1458), the parameter under estimation is the value of ? which minimizes the expectation of what is called a discrepancy measure (DM) ?(X, ?) which is a function of ? and the underlying random variable X. Such a setting does not cover the estimation of parameters such as the multivariate median defined by Oja (1983) and Liu (1990), as the value of ? which minimizes the expectation of a DM of the type ?(X1, ?, Xm, ?) where X1, ?, Xm are independent copies of the underlying random variable X. Arcones et al. (1994, Ann. Statist.22, 1460?1477) studied the estimation of such parameters. We call such an M-type MU-estimation (or ?-estimation for convenience). When a DM is not a differentiable function of ?, some complexities arise in studying the properties of estimators as well as in their computation. In such a case, we introduce a new method of smoothing the DM with a kernel function and using it in estimation. It is seen that smoothing allows us to develop an elegant approach to the study of asymptotic properties and possibly apply the Newton?Raphson procedure in the computation of estimators.
Corneal endothelial deposits in patients with cytomegalovirus retinitis.

Purpose We studied six patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) who had cytomegalovirus retinitis and abnormal endothelial deposits in at least one eye, to characterize their corneal endothelial deposits. Methods The corneas of the six patients were examined by slit-lamp biomicroscopy and specular microscopy with morphometric analysis. The eyes of one patient with endothelial changes were obtained post mortem for histopathologic and ultrastructural examination. Results There were multiple diffuse, fine, retractile, stellate-shaped deposits on the corneal endothelium in all affected eyes. The deposits were best seen with retroillumination. Two of six patients examined with specular microscopy showed severe abnormalities, which included marked areas of polymegathism and decreased endothelial cell counts. Examination of one eye obtained post mortem disclosed chains of dendritic macrophages and fibrin adherent to the apical surface of the corneal endothelium. There was no evidence of direct infection of the corneal endothelium by cytomegalovirus. Conclusions Deposits on the corneal endothelium in patients with cytomegalovirus retinitis most likely result from an anterior uveitis. A preponderance of macrophages observed by histopathologic examination may be related to the inability of the immunodeficient patient to mount a normal T-cell response.
Evaluation of ozonation and cryptic growth for biosolids management in wastewater treatment

The ultimate disposal of biosolids has been and continues to be one of the most expensive problems faced by wastewater utilities. The objective of this research is to develop a process configuration for reducing the waste sludge generation in an activated sludge plant by promoting cryptic growth conditions (i.e., biomass growth on intracellular products). For this purpose, excess biosolids from a continuous flow activated sludge system were solubilized using ozone as the cell lysis agent, and then returned to the aeration tank. It is hypothesized that growth under such cryptic conditions will result in low net microbial yields, and hence, minimal net solids wastage. The results of these preliminary studies indicate that the proposed process configuration has the potential to reduce the waste sludge production by 40% to 60%.
A real-time monitor for toxic metal emissions from combustion systems

Excimer laser fragmentation-fluorescence spectroscopy (ELFFS) simultaneously detects many airborne toxic metal species in real time and in situ. With ELFFS, sub-ppm single-shot detection limits are achieved for Ba, Cr, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Tl in postcombustion gases of methane-air flames. Spectra of metals both singly and in mixtures illustrate the response of ELFFS to metals injected into a flame. Background interference from combustion products is negligible. We investigate aspects of the technique relevant to application in real-world devices. The detection signal changes linearly with concentration for each metal injected in the postflame gases. The signal also changes with the aerosol size, which is a strong function of temperature. We find that the ELFFS signal depends on the aerosol surface area, suggesting that the signal evolves from surface ablation. In the cooled gases, where the temperature and aerosol size are constant, the signal is constant, and similar signal levels are observed for four different Pb species injected into the flame. These characteristics are discussed along with the detection limits, and we concluded that ELFFS is a technique capable of functioning as a real-time emissions monitor for the toxic metals listed above.
Extension theorems for homogenization on lattice structures

When applying homogenization techniques to problems involving lattice structures, it is necessary to extend certain functions defined on a perforated domain to a simply connected domain. This paper provides general extension operators which preserve bounds on derivatives of order l. Only the special case of honeycomb structures is considered.
Baclofen and the brain stem auditory evoked potential.

Abstract Baclofen, a commonly used antispastic drug, is believed to block the release of excitatory amino-acid neurotransmitters. Auditory distortions are one side effect of this drug. Peak 1 of the brain stem auditory evoked potential of the cat was not affected by intravenously applied baclofen (2 to 3 mg/kg). Peaks 2, 4, and 5, however, were strongly suppressed or blocked. The results indicate a basis for the occasional auditory side effects of baclofen and suggest that the transmitter of the auditory nerve is an excitatory amino acid.
Workshop report: US-China workshop on smart structures and smart systems

A Joint U.S.-China workshop on the topic of Integrated Sensing Systems, Mechatronics and Smart Structures Technologies was held in Jinan, China in October 2005 to evaluate the current status of research and education in the topic areas in the United States and China, to identify critical and strategic research and educational issues of mutual interest, and to identify joint research projects and potential research teams for collaborative research activities. The workshop included a series of presentations by leading researchers and educators from the United States and China and group discussions on the workshop objectives.
Potential effect of prior raccoonpox virus infection in raccoons on vaccinia-based rabies immunization

Background The USDA, Wildlife Services cooperative oral rabies vaccination (ORV) program uses a live vaccinia virus-vectored (genus Orthopoxvirus) vaccine, Raboral V-RG® (V-RG), to vaccinate specific wildlife species against rabies virus in several regions of the U.S. Several naturally occurring orthopoxviruses have been found in North America, including one isolated from asymptomatic raccoons (Procyon lotor). The effect of naturally occurring antibodies to orthopoxviruses on successful V-RG vaccination in raccoons is the focus of this study.
Correlation of fission fragment kinetic energy data

Recent measurements of the most probable kinetic energy release in fission are compared in order to study the dependence on nuclear species. Appropriate corrections to data obtained with semi-conductor detectors, particularly with regard to calibration procedures, are discussed and applied. Corrected results are listed in Table I and plotted in Fig. 1. It is found that the most probable kinetic energy release in fission can be simply expressed by the function. E k > = 0.1071 Z 2 / A 1 / 3 + 22.2 MeV . The corrected values are compared with recent liquid drop calculations and good agreement is found for Z2/A less than 35, but not above this value. Effects of mass asymmetry are also briefly discussed. Analysis of the data indicates that the most probable kinetic energy release is essentially independent of excitation energy. Use was made only of results published since 1961. Prior data can be found in the review of Huizenga and Vandenbosch .
Disparities in patient-physician communication for persons with a disability from the 2006 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS).

Abstract Background Ineffective patient-physician communication has been shown to result in poorer health outcomes for various vulnerable populations. However, little research has been done on patient-physician communication issues as perceived by persons with disabilities. The purposes of this study are to determine if there is a relationship between disability and patient-physician communication and how disability affects the likelihood of effective patient-physician communication. The research questions for this study are: (1) Is there a significant difference in patient-physician communication for persons with disabilities compared to persons without disabilities? (2) Does having a disability influence the likelihood of ineffective patient-physician communication? Methods Data were obtained from the 2006 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS). Chi-square analyses were performed to determine if there a significant difference in patient-physician communication for persons with disabilities compared with persons without disabilities. A series of logistic regression analyses were conducted examining the likelihood of ineffective patient-physician communication with the independent variable of disability status. Results Those with a disability are significantly more likely than persons without a disability to perceive that the physician does not listen to them, does not explain treatment so that they understand, does not treat them with respect, does not spend enough time with them, and does not involve them in treatment decisions. Regression analyses further revealed that persons with a disability are from 1.36 to 1.78 times as likely to perceive inadequate patient-physician communication. Conclusions This study revealed that persons with disabilities are at increased risk of experiencing ineffective patient-physician communication, compromising current health status and increasing the possibility of secondary health conditions. Several suggestions were made with regard to incorporation of “disability literacy” mechanisms such as physician training, health facility environmental assessment, and use of technologies such as telehealth and e-health. Further research in partnership with the disability community is needed to determine the effectiveness of these methods in improving patient-physician communication.
Back from the dead: Tracking the progress of Kentucky's Furman-commuted death row population

After the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Furman v. Georgia (1972), 23 inmates at the Kentucky State Penitentiary in Eddyville had their capital sentences commuted. This study tracks 17 of these former death row inmates, who have been paroled, and reports on their current legal status. The analysis reveals that the recidivism rate of these parolees was not dramatically high and that none of the parolees committed another homicide. In fact, those inmates who did recidivate had the most extensive prior records and had committed homicides of police officers during an armed robbery.
SOLVENT-INDUCED ELECTRON TRANSFER AND DELOCALIZATION IN MIXED-VALENCE COMPLEXES. ELECTROCHEMISTRY

For the RuIII/II couple in [(bpy)2ClOs(4,4‘-bpy)Ru(NH3)5]3+ (bpy = 2,2‘-bipyridine; 4,4‘-bpy = 4,4‘-bipyridine), E1/2 varies linearly with the donor number (DN) of the solvent with a slope of −26 ±...
Seasonal Phosphorus Losses in Runoff from a Coastal Plain Soil

Nutrients from agricultural fields can contaminate runoff and groundwater and enhance eutrophication. Runoff, soil loss, soluble P (SP), and bioavailable P (BP) associated with runoff and soil loss were measured from six 2 h simulated rainfall events (1 in./h) to determine amount of P transported during a corn (Zea mays L.) growing season and to develop relationships that predict P amounts and forms leaving different size field plots. Two 60-sq-ft microplots and two 6500-sq-ft mesoplots (3% slope) were located on a Tifton loamy sand (fine-loamy, siliceous, thermic Plinthic Kandiudult). Phosphorus was broadcast at 31 Ib P/acre, then incorporated to a depth of 6 in. Corn (conventional tillage) was planted after fertilizer application. Six simulated rainfall events occurred 5 d before and 1, 14, 29, 49, and 108 d after fertilizer application [...]
Risk of endocarditis among patients with prosthetic valves and Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia

Purpose Staphylococcus aureus is a common cause of bacteremia and of native valve infective endocarditis. However, the risk of endocarditis in patients with a prosthetic valve who develop S. aureus bacteremia is unclear. The aim of this study was to define the risk of prosthetic valve endocarditis in patients with S. aureus bacteremia. Subjects and methods All patients with a prosthetic valve or ring who developed S. aureus bacteremia during the 94-month study period were prospectively evaluated. The modified Duke criteria were used for the diagnosis of endocarditis. Patients were followed up for 12 weeks after the initial diagnosis of S. aureus bacteremia. Results The overall rate of definite prosthetic valve endocarditis among the study patients was 26/51 (51%). The risk of endocarditis was similar in patients with late (≥12 months after valve implantation) vs. early S. aureus bacteremia ( P =1.0), mitral vs. aortic prostheses (62% vs. 48%, P =0.24), and mechanical vs. bioprosthetic valves (62% vs. 44%, P =0.29). The 12-week mortality was higher among patients with definite vs. possible endocarditis (62% vs. 28%, P =0.019). Conclusion In this investigation, approximately half of all patients with prosthetic valves who developed S. aureus bacteremia had definite endocarditis. The risk of endocarditis was independent of the type, location, or age of the prosthetic valve. The mortality of prosthetic valve endocarditis is high. All patients with a prosthetic valve who develop S. aureus bacteremia should be aggressively screened and followed for endocarditis.
Transsexuality Among Twins: Identity Concordance, Transition, Rearing, and Orientation

ABSTRACT The relative contributions of genetic and environmental factors to the development of gender identity have been debated. Twins were studied that are concordant or discordant for gender identity status in order to provide clarification of this issue. An extensive library search yielded reports of 27 male and 16 female sets concordant or discordant for transsexuality. An Internet bulletin board search and clinical contact requests for participants in a survey of twins in which one or both transitioned located 69 new twin pairs. In addition to asking about matters associated with gender, these new twins were asked about their transition, rearing, and sexual practices. Combining data from the present survey with those from past-published reports, 20% of all male and female monozygotic twin pairs were found concordant for transsexual identity. This was more frequently the case for males (33%) than for females (23%). The responses of our twins relative to their rearing, along with our findings regardin...
On Conceptual Metaphor and the Flora and Fauna of Mind: Commentary on Brookes and Etkina; and Jeppsson, Haglund, and Amin

I have been asked to comment on two papers appearing in this special issue. The first paper is The Importance of Language in Students’ Reasoning About Heat in Thermodynamic Processes, by David T. B...
Alcohol-induced microencephaly during the third trimester equivalent: relationship to dose and blood alcohol concentration

Alcohol was administered in different doses to groups of neonatal rat pups from postnatal days 4-10 using an artificial rearing technique. Blood alcohol concentrations (BACs) were monitored in pups on postnatal day 6. Brain weights were measured on postnatal day 10 and the extent of microencephaly was correlated with dose and BAC. Doses of 7.4 g/kg/day and above resulted in microencephaly. Although BACs varied considerably among individual animals at each dose tested, the amount of microencephaly increased with the BAC, and the amount of brain growth reduction was more dependent on BAC than dose. The BAC threshold for producing microencephaly was between 140 and 197 mg/dl. Deficits in the brain weight to body weight ratio ranged from 14% to 25% as BACs increased to approximately 280 mg/dl. Higher BACs did not produce significantly more microencephaly, although BACs above 425 mg/dl were lethal. Sex-related differences were also examined. There were significant differences in the brain weights and the BACs between males and females of the same dose groups. These data indicate that increasing the amount of alcohol during the third trimester equivalent increases the amount of microencephaly. However, BAC is a better predictor than dose of the adverse affects of alcohol on brain growth.
New Human Embryonic Stem-Cell Lines — More Is Better

It is rare that a field of scientific research can simultaneously represent a domain of fundamental discovery in human biology and potentially have major effects on human health and the quality of life. Human embryonic stem cells serve not only as a resource for basic research, but also as the starting material for the development of cell-based therapies. Formidable scientific challenges face those who aim to develop cell-based therapies. It will take the efforts of many scientists and clinicians in a variety of disciplines to bring this endeavor to fruition. Of immediate importance and concern is whether or not we . . .
Mining functional subgraphs from cancer protein-protein interaction networks

Protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks carry vital information about proteins' functions. Analysis of PPI networks associated with specific disease systems including cancer helps us in the understanding of the complex biology of diseases. Specifically, identification of similar and frequently occurring patterns (network motifs) across PPI networks will provide useful clues to better understand the biology of the diseases. In this study, we developed a novel pattern-mining algorithm that detects cancer associated functional subgraphs occurring in multiple cancer PPI networks. We constructed nine cancer PPI networks using differentially expressed genes from the Oncomine dataset. From these networks we discovered frequent patterns that occur in all networks and at different size levels. Patterns are abstracted subgraphs with their nodes replaced by node cluster IDs. By using effective canonical labeling and adopting weighted adjacency matrices, we are able to perform graph isomorphism test in polynomial running time. We use a bottom-up pattern growth approach to search for patterns, which allows us to effectively reduce the search space as pattern sizes grow. Validation of the frequent common patterns using GO semantic similarity showed that the discovered subgraphs scored consistently higher than the randomly generated subgraphs at each size level. We further investigated the cancer relevance of a select set of subgraphs using literature-based evidences. Frequent common patterns exist in cancer PPI networks, which can be found through effective pattern mining algorithms. We believe that this work would allow us to identify functionally relevant and coherent subgraphs in cancer networks, which can be advanced to experimental validation to further our understanding of the complex biology of cancer.
A study of the frequency of associated cardiac and pulmonary disease in patients with defects of the atrial septum coming to necropsy.

The hospital records of 80 cases of defects of the atrial septum in which necropsy was performed have been reviewed. Among these patients, 46 had at least one and frequently more than one additional congenital cardiac anomaly. Fourteen had significant defects without any other congenital defect besides partial anomalous pulmonary venous drainage; 11 of these were in congestive heart failure at the time of death. Almost all of the eleven had some other important disease of the heart or lungs. It is suggested that other congenital disorders and acquired diseases of the heart frequently cause failure in patients with atrial septal defect.
Obstructive defecation: a failure of rectoanal coordination

Objective: The pathophysiology of obstructive defecation is unclear. We investigated whether impaired rectoanal coordination causes obstructive defecation and if this dysfunction can be corrected by biofeedback therapy. Methods: We prospectively studied 25 healthy subjects and 35 consecutive patients with constipation (>1 year) with anorectal manometry and balloon expulsion test. Symptoms were assessed from diary cards. Patients found to have obstructive defecation were offered biofeedback therapy. After treatment, their defecation dynamics and symptoms were reassessed. Results: Eighteen patients had obstructive defecation and 17 had normal defecation dynamics (nonobstructive). Five normals (20%) exhibited obstructive pattern but only one failed to expel balloon. In the obstructive group, during straining, the intrarectal pressure and defecation index were lower (p < 0.05), and anal residual pressure was higher (p < 0.01) when compared with the nonobstructive group or normals. After biofeedback therapy, the intrarectal pressure and defecation index increased (p < 0.02) and anal residual pressure decreased (p < 0.001); stool frequency, degree of straining, and bowel satisfaction scores improved (p < 0.05); 67% stopped laxatives and 11 patients discontinued stooling with digitation. Conclusion: Patients with obstructive defecation showed impaired rectal contraction, paradoxical anal contraction, or inadequate anal relaxation. These features suggest that rectoanal coordination was impaired. Biofeedback therapy rectified these pathophysiological disturbances and improved constipation.
Forms of corticotropin and β-endorphin released by partially purified CRF in mouse anterior pituitary cultures☆

A double label technique (with 35S-met and 3H-phe) is used to show that partially purified CRF releases equal amounts of endorphin (β-endorphin plus β-LPH-like material) and ACTH (glycosylated and unglycosylated forms) from both old a newly synthesized stores of these hormones in cultures of mouse anterior pituitary cells. The possibility that processing of hormone from large forms to small forms occurs during stimulated release is also discussed.
Image charge undulator: theoretical model and technical issues

A relativistic electron beam undergoes undulating motion due to its image charge wakefields while passing close to a conducting grating surface. A new device, an image charge undulator, has been proposed recently to utilize this mechanism for generating coherent hard radiation. We demonstrate the physics principle of this device by a 2D model of a uniform sheet beam. The transverse image charge wakefields, synchrotron radiation frequency and coherent radiation gain length are presented. We discuss a proof-of-principle experiment that takes into consideration such technical issues as grating fabrication, flat beams and beam alignment.
Low-intensity anticoagulation in mechanical cardiac prosthetic valves.

Retrospectively, we reviewed the charts of 101 patients at the University of Kansas Medical Center who received low-intensity anticoagulation for mechanical prosthetic valves implanted over a 17-yr period. The mean duration of follow-up was 4.6 yr, and the total duration of follow-up was 466.5 patient-yr. The patients' records were evaluated for evidence of hemorrhagic or thromboembolic complications. A prothrombin time ratio of 1.3 to 1.5 times control was considered to be low-intensity anticoagulation. There were three thromboembolic events or 2.9/100 patient-yr of follow-up at a prothrombin time ratio of less than 1.3, four thromboembolic events or 2.5/100 patient-yr of follow-up at 1.3 to 1.5 times control, four thromboembolic events or 2.2/100 patient-yr of follow-up at 1.6 to 2.0 times control, and no thromboembolic events at prothrombin time ratios greater than 2.0 times control. Hemorrhagic events occurred in three patients at a prothrombin time ratio of less than 1.3 times control or 2.8/100 patient-yr of follow-up, in six patients at 1.3 to 1.5 times control or 3.8/100 patient-yr of follow-up, in ten patients at 1.6 to 2.0 times control or 5.5/100 patient-yr of follow-up, and in two patients at 2.1 to 2.5 times control or 12.2/100 patient-yr of follow-up. The rate of hemorrhagic events at 2.5 times control was 470/100 patient-yr of follow-up. While not providing definitive proof, we believe that our retrospective study provides supportive evidence for the use of low-intensity anticoagulation in patients with mechanical cardiac prostheses.
Motility of the Turtle Embryo, Chelydra serpentina (Linné)

Periodic motility of turtle embryos was observed during their incubation periods (60 ± 5 days). Cyclic activity was first observed between days 10 to 14; it increased to a peak level of 50 percent of the standard observation period on day 30 ± 5, then declined to low levels until hatching activities were initiated. During the first third of the incubation period, motility of the turtles closely resembled that previously described for chick embryos at similar stages of development.
Relativistic electron acceleration in the wavielength-cubed regime

We report on relativistic electron acceleration from bulk copper in the wavelength-cubed regime with 0.4-mJ, 25-fs pulses focused to 1.2 /spl mu/m at 400 Hz. Results show electrons with energies exceeding 500 keV propagating toward the vacuum.
Oncogenic activation of androgen receptor.

Abstract Background There is considerable evidence implicating the aberrant activation or “reactivation” of androgen receptor in the course of androgen-ablation therapy as a potential cause for the development of castration-resistant prostate cancer. Several non-mutually exclusive mechanisms including the inappropriate activation of androgen receptor (AR) by non-steroids have been postulated. The present work is aimed to understand the role of neuropeptides released by neuroendocrine transdifferentiated prostate cancer cells in the aberrant activation of AR. Objectives The study was designed to study how neuropeptides such as gastrin-releasing peptide activate AR and to define the crucial signal pathways involved, in the hope to identify therapeutic targets. Methods and Materials Androgen-dependent LNCaP cell line was used to study the effects of bombesin/gastrin-releasing peptide on the growth of the cell line and the transactivation of AR. The neuropeptide was either added to the media or introduced as a transgene in LNCaP cells to study its paracrine or autocrine effect on LNCaP growth under androgen-deprived conditions. The activation of AR was monitored by reporter assay, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) of AR, translocation into the nucleus and cDNA microarray of the AR response genes. Results Bombesin/gastrin releasing peptides induce androgen-independent growth of LNCaP in vitro and in vivo. It does so by activating AR, which is accompanied by the activation of Src tyrosine kinase and its target c-myc oncogene. The bombesin or Src-activated AR induces an overlapping set of AR response genes as androgen, but they also a unique set of genes. Intriguingly, the Src-activated and androgen-bound ARs differ in their binding specificity toward AR response elements, indicating the receptors activated by these 2 mechanisms are not conformationally identical. Finally, Src inhibitor was shown to effectively block the activation of AR and the growth effects induced by bombesin. Conclusion The results showed that AR can be activated by neuropeptide, a ligand for G-protein coupled receptor, in the absence of androgen. The activation goes through Src-tyrosine kinase pathway, and tyrosine kinase inhibitor is a potentially useful adjunctive therapy during androgen ablation.