cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Absolute cross sections for emission of 284.7-nm /Hg II/ and 479.7-nm /Hg III/ radiation in electron-mercury-ion collisions

Crossed beams of electrons and Hg/sup +/ ions have been used to measure absolute cross sections for emission of 284.7-nm radiation, resulting from excitation of a predominantly ground-state Hg/sup +/ target to the 7s /sup 2/S/sub 1///sub 2/ state. Values range from 3 x 10/sup -17/ cm/sup 2/ near threshold, where the cross section is strongly peaked, to 1.3 x 10/sup -18/ cm/sup 2/ at 280 eV. Also reported are some measurements of emission of 479.7-nm (Hg III) radiation, resulting from electron impact on both Hg/sup +/ and Hg/sup + +/ targets. Cross sections range from approximately 5 x 10/sup -19/ to 5 x 10/sup -20/ cm/sup 2/, and in the case of electron-Hg/sup + +/ collisions, are more than an order of magnitude smaller than predicted by an available semiclassical binary-encounter calculation. (AIP)
Dispersal of ectomycorrhizal basidiospores: the long and short of it

Dam (2013) critiques our paper, “95% of basidiospores fall within 1 m of the cap” (Galante et al. 2011). Our title was easily misconstrued to suggest we thought there was little long distance dispe...
Field-dependent magnetization for an Anderson model fluctuating between two magnetic configurations

We calculate the magnetization as a function of field for an Anderson impurity model for which the lowest configurations are f1 and f2, using the leading order 1/N expansion (where N is the orbital degeneracy). For most values of the valence, except those near two, we find a two-stage crossover in M(H). This is due to an unbinding of the many-body singlet, first to a partially screened magnetic state and then to the full f2 moment. At small fields there is a positive deviation from linearity in M(H) near the integer valent limits which is characteristic of degenerate f0-f1 models. This upturn disappears for intermediate values of the valence.
Intersection problem of Steiner systems S (3,4,2 v )

A Steiner quadruple system of order v (SQS(v)) is a pair (Q, q), where Q is a v-set and q is a collection of 4-element subsets of Q, called blocks, such that every 3-element subset of Q is contained in exactly one block of q. Hanani [12] proved that an SQS(v) exists if and only if v =-2 or 4 (mod 6). It is easy to see that [ql = ~ v ( v 1)(v 2), which we will denote by q~ in what follows. Denote by J[v] the set of all positive integers k such that there exists a pair of SQS(v) which have exactly k blocks in common, and set I [ v ] = {0, 1, 2 , . . . , q~, 14} U {qv 12, q~ 8, qo}. In [6], Gionfriddo and Lindner conjectured that J[v] = l[v] for every v 2 or 4 (mod 6) and v /> 8. Since the conjecture by Giofiiddo and Lindner, a considerable amount of work has been done in an at tempt to prove that J[v] = I[v] [3-11]. But compared to the whole problem, we still have a lot of work to do. In this paper, we proved that J[2v] = l[2v] for certain admissible order v of Steiner quadruple systems, and l [ 2 v ] \ {q2~ h : h = 17, 18, 19} ~_J[2v] for every v -= 2 or 4 (mod 6). Moreover, with the assumption of J[16] = I[16], J[20] = I[20], and J[28] = I[28], we are able to prove that J[2v] = I[2v], where v 2 or 4 (mod 6) and v 1> 4.
Assay of Melanotropic Peptides in an in Vitro Mammalian System

A reproducible and sensitive assay for melanotropic agents is described employing mouse melanoma cells in culture and measuring tyrosinase activity in terms of production of tritiated water from L-(ring-3,5- 3 H)-tyrosine. Molar concentrations of peptides inducing one-half maximal stimulation of tyrosinase activity were: β -MSH, 1 ± 2 × 10 −9 ; α -MSH and β h -LPH, 1 ± 2 × 10 −8 ; ACTH p , 1 ± 2 × 10 −7 . β p 9–18 -MSH and melanotropin potentiating factor, β s 88–91 -LPH exhibited no activity at concentrations as high as 10 −5 M.
Membrane Topology of the MotA Protein ofEscherichia coil

Abstract The MotA protein ofEscherichia coliis a component of the flagella that functions together with the MotB protein in transmembrane proton conduction. It is an integral membrane protein, with four hydrophobic segments that might traverse the membrane and two short segments that are predicted to be in the periplasm. In a previous study of the accessibility of MotA to various proteases, evidence for periplasmic segments was not obtained, probably because they are small. Here, we report site-directed sulfhydryl labeling experiments which show that two segments of MotA are exposed on the periplasmic side of the membrane, while the rest of the protein is in the cytoplasm. These experiments establish that the main features of the suggested model for MotA topology are correct, furnishing a basis for more detailed structure-function studies of the MotA/MotB proton channel.
(11R)-13-Dimethyl-ammonio-11,13-dihydro-4,5-epoxy-costunolide semifumarate.

Crystals of the title salt, C17H28NO3+·C4H3O4−, were obtained by reacting parthenolide with dimethyl­amine followed by conversion of the amine adduct into a water-soluble fumarate salt. Subsequent crystallization of the fumarate salt from water afforded colorless ortho­rhom­bic crystals. The amine addition is highly stereospecific yielding exclusively a single diastereomer with R-configuration at the newly formed C-11 chiral carbon. In the crystal, intermolecular O—H⋯O and N—H⋯O hydrogen bonds help to establish the packing.
Orientation development in the injection molding of amorphous polymers

Frozen-in orientation in the injection-molding of amorphous polymers has been considered in terms of flow- and cooling-induced birefringence. In particular, measurements of the frozen-in orientation distribution in polystyrene (PS) molded strips and circular runners have been performed. Three birefringence components, Δn, n22 − n33, and n11 − n33, have been measured for strips, and two components, Δn and nrr − nθθ, for runners. The effects of various processing conditions, of strip thickness, and of runner diameter on orientation development have been analyzed and compared with those predicted by our previously developed viscoelastic theory. In addition to injection-molding experiments, free and constrained quenching experiments for PS and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) strips have been carried out and the gapwise distribution of cooling-induced (thermal) birefringence has been measured. Relaxation of thermal birefringence following quenching has been observed for PMMA. The effects of flow- and cooling-induced orientation on various components of birefringence in molded parts have been elucidated and limitations on the applicability of the stress-optical law to the injection-molding of amorphous polymers have been discussed.
Micro-strain Evolution and Toughening Mechanisms in a Trimodal Al-Based Metal Matrix Composite

A trimodal metal matrix composite (MMC) based on AA (Al alloy) 5083 (Al-4.4Mg-0.7Mn-0.15Cr wt pct) was synthesized by cryomilling powders followed by compaction of blended powders and ceramic particles using two successive dual mode dynamic forgings. The microstructure consisted of 66.5 vol pct ultrafine grain (UFG) region, 30 vol pct coarse grain (CG) region and 3.5 vol pct reinforcing boron carbide particles. The microstructure imparted high-tensile yield strength (581 MPa) compared to a conventional AA 5083 (242 MPa) and enhanced ductility compared to 100 pct UFG Al MMC. The deformation behavior of the heterogeneous structure and the effects of CG regions on crack propagation were investigated using in situ scanning electron microscopy micro-tensile tests. The micro-strain evolution measured using digital image correlation showed early plastic strain localization in CG regions. Micro-voids due to the strain mismatch at CG/UFG interfaces were responsible for crack initiation. CG region toughening was realized by plasticity-induced crack closure and zone shielding of disconnected micro-cracks. However, these toughening mechanisms did not effectively suppress its brittle behavior. Further optimization of the CG distribution (spacing and morphology) is required to achieve toughness levels required for structural applications.
Hiding the Higgs boson from prying eyes

Abstract There are two simple ways that the Higgs boson H of the Standard Model (SM) may be more difficult to observe than expected at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) or the Tevatron. One is well known, i.e. H decays invisibly, into dark-matter scalar particles for example. The other is that H mixes with a heavy singlet scalar S which couples to new colored fermions and scalars. Of the two mass eigenstates, the light one could (accidentally) have a suppressed effective coupling to two gluons, and the heavy one could be kinematically beyond the reach of the LHC.
A repetitive DNA sequence, rhs, responsible for duplications within the Escherichia coli K-12 chromosome.

Abstract A novel family of large, imperfectly repeated DNA sequences has been found in Escherichia coli. Two members of this family, rhsA and rhsB, occur as direct repeats, flanking the pit glyS xyl segment of the chromosome. Unequal sister-chromatid crossing over between rhsA and rhsB accounts for the frequent tandem duplication of the glyS locus that has been observed by various workers. This unequal recombination is recA -dependent. The rhs A locus is operationally defined as the segment between xyl and mtl that is repeated at other chromosomal locations. Using this definition, rhsA extends minimally 5500 base-pairs; 3800 base-pairs of rhs A are sufficiently homologous to rhsB to form an S1 nuclease-resistant heteroduplex with it. The rhsA sequence also exhibits internal repetition. At least one additional rhs sequence occurs in the E. coli chromosome unlinked to either rhs A or rhsB. Southern analysis of restriction digests of genomic DNA from E. coli strains C and B/5 showed that both of these strains have rhs hybridizable patterns similar to strain K-12, but the rhs sequence is absent in Salmonella typhimurium. The function of the rhs sequences has not been discovered. In the course of this work we developed a technique, termed “transductional walking”, by which chromosomal DNA adjacent to a previously cloned DNA segment can be cloned through genetic procedures.
Biological Matrix Effects in Quantitative Tandem Mass Spectrometry-Based Analytical Methods: Advancing Biomonitoring

The ability to quantify levels of target analytes in biological samples accurately and precisely in biomonitoring involves the use of highly sensitive and selective instrumentation such as tandem mass spectrometers and a thorough understanding of highly variable matrix effects. Typically, matrix effects are caused by co-eluting matrix components that alter the ionization of target analytes as well as the chromatographic response of target analytes, leading to reduced or increased sensitivity of the analysis. Thus, before the desired accuracy and precision standards of laboratory data are achieved, these effects must be characterized and controlled. Here we present our review and observations of matrix effects encountered during the validation and implementation of tandem mass spectrometry-based analytical methods. We also provide systematic, comprehensive laboratory strategies needed to control challenges posed by matrix effects in order to ensure delivery of the most accurate data for biomonitoring studies assessing exposure to environmental toxicants.
Endovascular treatment of intrahepatic inferior vena cava obstruction from malignant hepatocellular tumor thrombus utilizing Luminexx self-expanding nitinol stents

Abstract Inferior vena cava (IVC) obstruction is a well-described clinical entity. Most IVC obstructions from malignant neoplasms are a direct result of tumor compression [Oviedo J, Cerda S. Vascular invasion by hepatocellular carcinoma. Arch Pathol Lab Med 2001;125: 454–5; Furui S, Sawada S, et al. Gianturco stent placement in malignant caval obstruction: analysis of factors for predicting the outcome. Radiology 1995;195:147–52; Fletcher WS, Lakin PC, et al. Results of treatment of inferior vena cava syndrome with expandable metallic stents. Arch Surg 1998;133:935–8]. The symptoms of IVC obstruction include progressive ascites, scrotal edema and lower body edema. These constellations of symptoms are described as IVC syndrome and are devastating to a patient with end-stage cancer. We describe a palliative therapy utilizing Luminexx nitinol self-expanding stents to treat intracaval hepatoma thrombus obstructing the IVC. The procedure is rapidly performed, technically reliable, and has essentially no morbidity or mortality. This procedure can be performed in the interventional radiology suite with excellent results resolving the IVC syndrome soon after placement of the stents. We believe endovascular stenting as an excellent palliative therapy for patients with IVC syndrome and should be the treatment of choice for caval obstructions due to intraluminal tumor thrombus.
Pseudohypoparathyroidism and pregnancy: Is pseudo-pseudohypoparathyroidism a mild form of pseudohypoparathyroidism?

Summary Pregnancy in a woman with pseudohypoparathyroidism is described. She was delivered of a live infant who, up until the present (14 months of age), appears normal. The patient, though she ha tetany as a child, has been without treatment as an adult for long periods of time. It is suggested that pseudo-pseudohypoparathyroidism is a mild form of pseudohypoparathyroidism, and that the hypocalcemia appears in the former only during growth or other periods of increased calcium demand.
Technical challenges for the future of high energy lasers

The Solid-State, Heat-Capacity Laser (SSHCL) program at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory is a multi-generation laser development effort scalable to the megawatt power levels with current performance approaching 100 kilowatts. This program is one of many designed to harness the power of lasers for use as directed energy weapons. There are many hurdles common to all of these programs that must be overcome to make the technology viable. There will be a in-depth discussion of the general issues facing state-of-the-art high energy lasers and paths to their resolution. Despite the relative simplicity of the SSHCL design, many challenges have been uncovered in the implementation of this particular system. An overview of these and their resolution are discussed. The overall system design of the SSHCL, technological strengths and weaknesses, and most recent experimental results will be presented.
The measurement of Henry's constant for hydrogen in high subcritical and supercritical aqueous systems

Abstract Studies are reported on the Hg|HgO|ZrO 2 (Y 2 O 3 )|NaOH(aq)|H 2 (Pt) cell at temperatures ranging from 298.15 K (2 (450°C) and at a pressure of 275 bar, to assess the viability of ceramic sensors for measuring Henry's constant for hydrogen in high subcritical (473.15K T > 647.30K) aqueous systems. Previous work has shown that this cell is thermodynamically well-behaved, in that the measured potential is in good agreement with that calculated from thermodynamic data for the cell components. Thus, the Hg|HgO|ZrO 2 (Y 2 O 3 )|H + ,H 2 O ceramic membrane electrode, when combined with a plati provides a convenient means of evaluating hydrogen activity and Henry's constant for hydrogen in high subcritical and supercritical aqueous systems. The apparent standard Gibbs energies of formation of H 2 (aq) at temperatures within the range 473 and 723 K and at a pressure of 275 bar have been obtained. The calculated Henry's constants for dissolved molecular hydrogen in pure water were compared with the available literature data, and good agreement was found over the entire temperature range explored in this work.
Forebrain Pathways Mediating Stress-Induced Hormone Secretion ☆ ☆☆

Exposure to hostile conditions initiates the secretion of several hormones, including corticosterone/cortisol, catecholamines, prolactin, oxytocin, and renin, as part of the survival mechanism. Such conditions are often referred to as "stressors" and can be divided into three categories: external conditions resulting in pain or discomfort, internal homeostatic disturbances, and learned or associative responses to the perception of impending endangerment, pain, or discomfort ("psychological stress"). The hormones released in response to stressors often are referred to as "stress hormones" and their secretion is regulated by neural circuits impinging on hypothalamic neurons that are the final output toward the pituitary gland and the kidneys. This review discusses the forebrain circuits that mediate the neuroendocrine responses to stressors and emphasizes those neuroendocrine systems that have previously received little attention as stress-sensitive hormones: renin, oxytocin, and prolactin. Anxiolytic drugs of the benzodiazepine class and other drugs that affect catecholamine, GABAA, histamine, and serotonin receptors alter the neuroendocrine stress response. The effects of these drugs are discussed in relation to their effects on forebrain neural circuits that regulate stress hormone secretion. For psychological stressors such as conditioned fear, the neural circuits mediating neuroendocrine responses involve cortical activation of the basolateral amygdala, which in turn activates the central nucleus of the amygdala. The central amygdala then activates hypothalamic neurons directly, indirectly through the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, and/or possibly via circuits involving brainstem serotonergic and catecholaminergic neurons. The renin response to psychological stress, in contrast to those of ACTH and prolactin, is not mediated by the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis and is not suppressed by benzodiazepine anxiolytics. Stressors that challenge cardiovascular homeostasis, such as hemorrhage, trigger a pattern of neuroendocrine responses that is similar to that observed in response to psychological stressors. These neuroendocrine responses are initiated by afferent signals from cardiovascular receptors which synapse in the medulla oblongata and are relayed either directly or indirectly to hypothalamic neurons controlling ACTH, prolactin, and oxytocin release. In contrast, forebrain pathways may not be essential for the renin response to hemorrhage. Thus current evidence indicates that although a diverse group of stressors initiate similar increases in ACTH, renin, prolactin, and oxytocin, the specific neural circuits and neurotransmitter systems involved in these responses differ for each neuroendocrine system and stressor category.
Characteristics of mammary mitochondria in lines of mice genetically divergent for milk production.

Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship of mitochondrial proliferation and ATP production to milk production in two lines of mice that were genetically divergent for milk production. Milk production differed between high production and low production lines by .8 phenotypic standard deviations as determined by cross-fostered litter weight gain from 1 to 12 d postpartum. Mammary weight, mammary total DNA, and RNA: DNA ratio were greater in glands of high line mice. Mammary DNA and protein, expressed per gram mammary tissue, were similar between lines. Mammary mitochondrial mass per gland differed after six generations of divergent selection. Rates of succinate-supported ATP production and ADP:O of isolated mitochondria differed, but the rate of pyruvate-supported ATP production did not differ between lines. Differences between selection lines in mitochondrial mass and in the efficiency of succinate use for support of ATP production were probable consequences of selection for divergent milk production.
Syndromic craniosynostosis: from history to hydrogen bonds

The syndromic craniosynostoses, usually involving multiple sutures, are hereditary forms of craniosynostosis associated with extracranial phenotypes such as limb, cardiac, CNS and tracheal malformations. The genetic etiology of syndromic craniosynostosis in humans is only partially understood. Syndromic synostosis has been found to be associated with mutations of the fibroblast growth factor receptor family (FGFR1, -R2, -R3), TWIST1, MSX2, and EFNB1. Apert, Pfeiffer, Crouzon, and Jackson-Weiss syndromes are due to gain-of-function mutations of FGFR2 in either the Ig II-III linker region (Apert) or Ig III domain. Loss of function mutations of TWIST1 and gain-of-function mutations of MSX2 lead to Saethre-Chotzen and Boston-type syndromes, respectively. The mutations in Pfeiffer (FGFR1), Muenke (FGFR3), and Apert syndrome (FGFR2) are caused by the same amino acid substitution in a highly conserved region of the Ig II-III linker region of these proteins, which suggests that these receptor tyrosine kinases have an overlapping function in suture biology. In this review we will discuss the historical descriptions, current phenotypes and molecular causes of the more common forms of syndromic craniosynostosis.
Design options for advanced manned launch systems

Various concepts for advanced manned launch systems (AMLS) are examined for delivery missions to Space Station and polar orbit. Included are single- and two-stage winged systems with rocket and/or airbreathing propulsion systems. For near-term technologies, two-stage, reusable rocket systems are favored over single-stage rocket or two-stage airbreathing/rocket systems. Advanced technologies enable viable single-stage-to-orbit (SSTO) concepts. Although two-stage rocket systems continue to be lighter in dry weight than SSTOs, advantages in simpler operations may make SSTOs more cost effective over the life cycle. Generally, rocket systems maintain a dry weight advantage over airbreathing systems at the advanced technology levels, but to a lesser degree than when near-term technologies are used. More detailed understanding of vehicle systems and associated ground and flight operations requirements and procedures is essential in determining quantitative discrimination between these latter concepts.
Effect of the segmental mobility restriction on the thermoset chemical kinetics

The cure kinetics of an epoxy–amine commercial thermoset system have been investigated with the isothermal differential scanning calorimetry technique. In particular, a kinetic study has been performed in the glass–transition zone, in which diffusion phenomena compete with the chemical transformations and the overall reaction rate is partially slowed by the reduced segmental chain mobility. A generalized form of the Vogel equation has been formulated to account for the effect of the increasing glass–transition temperature on the chain mobility and, therefore, on the overall reaction rate. The kinetic model has been expressed with two factors representing the chemical reaction rate and the segmental mobility reduction. As the main result, the activation energy relative to the diffusion phenomena has been found to be very low, having a value of 42.5 K ≈ 0.356 kJ/mol, which is compatible only with the small-angle rotation of the reactive unit. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 40: 3757–3770, 2002
An Improved Synthesis of a Hydroxymethyl Tricyclic Ketone from Cyclohexanone, the Key Processes for the Synthesis of a Highly Potent Antiinflammatory and Cytoprotective Agent.

Compound (VI) is a key structure for the synthesis of TBE-31 (VII), which can be obtained after 10 further steps.
Long-term agonist exposure induces upregulation of beta 3-adrenergic receptor expression via multiple cAMP response elements.

Abstract During continuous stimulation by agonist, beta 1- and beta 2-adrenergic receptors (ARs) undergo processes that lead to decreases in receptor expression. This receptor down-regulation serves to limit the cellular cAMP response during chronic agonist exposure. In the recently described third subtype of the beta AR, denoted beta 3AR, we found four potential cAMP response elements in the 5' flanking region, suggesting that expression of this receptor might be positively regulated by agonists. These elements were cloned into the vector pA10CAT2, which contains a chloramphenicol acetyltransferase reporter gene, and transiently expressed in VERO cells. Three of these elements, TGACTCCA, TGAGGTCT, and CGAGGTCA (located 518, 622, and 1125 bases upstream of the beta 3AR coding block, respectively) were found to increase transcription of the chloramphenicol acetyltransferase gene in response to cAMP analogues and agents that increase intracellular cAMP. 3T3-F442A cells, when differentiated into the adipocyte phenotype by insulin, expressed beta 3AR, and nuclear runoff studies from such cells confirmed cAMP enhancement of beta 3AR mRNA transcription. In these cells, beta 3AR mRNA increased in response to exposure to the beta 3AR agonist isoproterenol and remained elevated during exposures of up to 24-30 hr. During prolonged exposure to agonist, no downregulation of beta 3AR expression in 3T3-F442A cells occurred. Indeed, beta 3AR expression increased during agonist exposure to approximately 165% of basal expression. In marked contrast, beta 1AR expression declined by approximately 70% in response to chronic agonist exposure. These studies reveal a subtype-specific prolonged transcriptional regulation of a beta AR gene by the end product of its signal transduction pathway. Thus, the beta 3AR undergoes a paradoxical increase in receptor expression during chronic agonist exposure.
A high-content imaging assay for the quantification of the Burkholderia pseudomallei induced multinucleated giant cell (MNGC) phenotype in murine macrophages

Burkholderia pseudomallei (Bp), a Gram-negative, motile, facultative intracellular bacterium is the causative agent of melioidosis in humans and animals. The Bp genome encodes a repertoire of virulence factors, including the cluster 3 type III secretion system (T3SS-3), the cluster 1 type VI secretion system (T6SS-1), and the intracellular motility protein BimA, that enable the pathogen to invade both phagocytic and non-phagocytic cells. A unique hallmark of Bp infection both in vitro and in vivo is its ability to induce cell-to-cell fusion of macrophages to form multinucleated giant cells (MNGCs), which to date are semi-quantitatively reported following visual inspection. In this study we report the development of an automated high-content image acquisition and analysis assay to quantitate the Bp induced MNGC phenotype. Validation of the assay was performed using T6SS-1 (∆hcp1) and T3SS-3 (∆bsaZ) mutants of Bp that have been previously reported to exhibit defects in their ability to induce MNGCs. Finally, screening of a focused small molecule library identified several Histone Deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors that inhibited Bp-induced MNGC formation of macrophages. We have successfully developed an automated HCI assay to quantitate MNGCs induced by Bp in macrophages. This assay was then used to characterize the phenotype of the Bp mutants for their ability to induce MNGC formation and identify small molecules that interfere with this process. Successful application of chemical genetics and functional reverse genetics siRNA approaches in the MNGC assay will help gain a better understanding of the molecular targets and cellular mechanisms responsible for the MNGC phenotype induced by Bp, by other bacteria such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis, or by exogenously added cytokines.
Parametric Study of Solar Thermal Rocket Nozzle Performance

This paper details a numerical investigation of performance losses in low-thrust solar thermal rocket nozzles. The effects of nozzle geometry on three types of losses were studied; finite rate dissociation-recombination kinetic losses, two dimensional axisymmetric divergence losses, and compressible viscous boundary layer losses. Short nozzle lengths and supersonic flow produce short residence times in the nozzle and a nearly frozen flow, resulting in large kinetic losses. Variations in geometry have a minimal effect on kinetic losses. Divergence losses are relatively small, and careful shaping of the nozzle can nearly eliminate them. The boundary layer in these small nozzles can grow to a major fraction of nozzle radius, and cause large losses. These losses are attributed to viscous drag on the nozzle walls and flow blockage by the boundary layer, especially in the throat region. Careful shaping of the nozzle can produce a significant reduction in viscous losses.
Acute myocardial infarction during infusion of liposomal doxorubicin for recurrent breast cancer.

: Doxorubicin and anthracycline antineoplastic agents are well known for their myocardial toxicity. This effect, however, is thought to be a direct one on the myocardium as a result of free radical formation and oxidative stress. We present the case of a patient who suffered an acute myocardial infarction during her first infusion of a liposomal formulation of doxorubicin as part of chemotherapy for recurrent breast cancer. To our knowledge, this is the first report of an angiographically proven infarction temporally related to exposure to this chemotherapeutic agent.
High-speed InGaP/GaAs HBTs with a strained In/sub x/Ga/sub 1-x/As base

A self-aligned InGaP/GaAs heterojunction bipolar transistor with a compositionally graded In/sub x/Ga/sub 1-x/As base has been demonstrated with f/sub T/=83 GHz and f/sub max/=197 GHz. To our knowledge, these results are the highest reported for both parameters in InGaP/GaAs HBT's. The graded base, which improves electron transport through the base, results in a DC current gain and a cutoff frequency which are 100% and 20% higher, respectively, than that achieved by an identical device with a nongraded base. The high f/sub max/ results from a heavily doped base, self-aligned base contacts, and a self-aligned collector etch. These results demonstrate the applicability of InGaP/GaAs HBT's in high-speed microwave applications.
Doubly symmetric interactive buckling of plate structures

Abstract A semianalytical approach is developed for the study of doubly symmetric interactive buckling of plate structures subject to axial compression, using the theory of mode interaction and finite strip concept. The approach is shown to be capable of dealing with a variety of interaction phenomena. Imperfection-sensitivity of a panel with near-coincident local and Euler critical stresses is seen to be dependent on the slenderness of the constituent members and the extent of their participation in the local buckling process. No catastrophic behavior is associated, however, with interactive buckling of a narrow stiffened plate supported along its longitudinal edges, in the elastic range. The “naive optimum” design is probably justified in these cases.
The Provision of Assistive Technology by Occupational Therapists Who Practice in Mental Health

The purpose of this study is to determine what assistive technology devices occupational therapists working in mental health settings use with their clients. Based on the literature, the authors expected that no tech and low tech assistive technology solutions are being used with clients in these settings even though high technology options are available for people with mental illness who have co-existing cognitive disabilities. The findings of the study reveal that indeed no tech and low tech interventions are most often used. Implications for professional development educational programs and further research are suggested.
Microbial Transformation of the Labdanes, cis-Abienol and Sclareol

The microbial transformation of cis-abienol and sclareol by a recently isolated soil bacterium, JTS–131, was studied. In the presence of metabolic inhibitors, three new compounds were isolated from the culture broth as degradation products of cis-abienol. They were determined to be (12Z)-labda-12,14-dien-18-ol, (12Z)-labda-12,14-dien-18-oic acid and its methylester. Two new compounds were also formed from sclareol in the presence of metabolic inhibitors. They were determined to be 13β-hydroxylabd-14-en-18-oic acid and 13β-hydroxylabd-14-en-18-oic acid methylester. As a result of sequence determination experiments, the biotransformation pathways of cis-abienol and sclareol by the bacterium were proposed.
Moisture desorption in mechanically masticated fuels: effects of particle fracturing and fuelbed compaction

Mechanical mastication is increasingly used as a wildland fuel treatment, reducing standing trees and shrubs to compacted fuelbeds of fractured woody fuels. One major shortcoming in our understanding of these fuelbeds is how particle fracturing influences moisture gain or loss, a primary determinant of fire behaviour. To better understand fuel moisture dynamics, we measured particle and fuelbed drying rates of masticated Arctostaphylos manzanita and Ceanothus velutinus shrubs, common targets of mastication in fire-prone western USA ecosystems. Drying rates of intact and fractured particles did not differ when desorbing at the fuelbed surface, but these particles did dry more rapidly than underlying fuelbeds. Average response times of 10-h woody particles at the fuelbed surfaces ranged from 16 to 21 h, whereas response times of fuelbeds (composed of 1-h and 10-h particles) were 40 to 69 h. Response times did not differ between fuelbeds composed of fractured woody particles and fuelbeds composed of intact particles (P¼0.258). Particle fracturing as a result of mastication does not affect the drying rate, but the longer-than-expected response times of particles within fuelbeds underscores the needs to better understand fuel moisture dynamics in these increasingly common fuels.
The fate of embryonal-carcinoma cells in mouse blastocysts.

Abstract Double-labeled embryonal-carcinoma (ECa) cells were injected into blastocysts or incorporated into blastocysts by aggregation, and their fate after various periods of time in culture was investigated. ECa-247 cells labeled with fluorescent microscopheres werc easily identified in whole blastocysts. These blastocysts were embedded in plastic, serially sectioned, and prepared for autoradiography. The 3 H-thymidine label on the embryonalcarcinoma cells allowed precise localization of the cancer-derived cells. ECa-247 cells preferentially localized in the mural trophec-toderm, with a few being seen in primitive endoderm and, even more rarely, in the inner cell mass. Selected autoradio-grams were reembedded and thin sectioned for transmission electron microscopy. The cancer-derived cells were found to have differentiated in accordance with their localization.
Distribution of Smoking Relapse Prevention Materials in the Hispanic Community: Lessons Learned

There is a dearth of Spanish language, culturally relevant tobacco-related information available to Hispanics in the USA. The primary aim of this study was to examine the distribution process of Libres para Siempre (Forever Free), a Spanish language smoking relapse prevention booklet series, by health care and social service agencies serving Hispanic individuals in Florida. Representatives (N = 16) from ten agencies that requested copies of the booklets completed a semi-structured interview to assess strategies used to distribute the booklets to their Hispanic clients. As a secondary aim, we obtained feedback regarding the booklets’ quality and utility from the representatives. Results revealed that many agencies used both active and passive approaches to distribute the booklets. Issues related to distribution included language barriers between staff and clients and confusion regarding identification of the target population. Results indicated that the booklets were received favorably, and providers would recommend them to future clients.
Cordycepin analog of (A2′p)2A: Evidence that it functions as a prodrug of cordycepin

Abstract The effect of the cordycepin trimer analog of (A2′p) 2 A on cell growth, cell viability and nucleic acid synthesis was assessed in human colon carcinoma cell line HT-29 in vitro . The cordycepin analog, (3′dA2′p) 2 3′dA reduced 24 hr cell growth by 50% at 10 −4 M and decreased cell viability by 98% under these conditions. The cytotoxicity and inhibitory effects of (3′dA2′p) 2 3′dA on DNA and RNA synthesis were potentiated 5–10-fold by the presence of the adenosine deaminase inhibitor, 2′-deoxycoformycin, and closely resembled those of the parent drug, cordycepin. Chromatographic analyses of the stability of (3′dA2′p) 2 3′dA in the tissue culture medium indicated that it was hydrolyzed to the dimer and monomer forms with a half life of approximately 2 hr. No intact (3′dA2′p) 2 3′dA was detectable intracellularly, but large concentrations of cordycepin nucleotide metabolites were formed, particularly in the presence of 2′-deoxycoformycin.
Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate for prostates of >125 mL

OBJECTIVE To examine a group of patients treated with holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) and with the bladder outlet obstructed by an exceptionally large (>125 mL) prostate, as such men are often not considered candidates for endoscopic treatments and historically have required open surgery. PATIENTS AND METHODS We analysed retrospectively all patients with prostates of > 125 mL on transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS) who underwent HoLEP between January 2000 and January 2005. RESULTS Eighty-six patients were identified; their mean (range) age was 72.6 (48–90) years and prostate volume 170.2 (125–309) mL. Their mean preoperative prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level was 9.82 ng/mL and preoperative American Urologic Association symptom score (AUA-SS) was 19.6. The mean operative duration and hospital stay were 128.1 min and 26.1 h, respectively. The mean weight of tissue enucleated was 140.2 g. At the 1-month follow-up the mean AUA-SS (63 men) was 8.4 and at 6 months (35 men) it was 6.4. The mean serum PSA level in 48 patients was 0.96 ng/mL, a reduction of 90%. TRUS measurements in 20 patients gave a mean prostate volume of 30.8 mL, a reduction of 82%. At the 1-year follow-up the mean AUA-SS of 22 patients was 5.1. CONCLUSIONS The present report details the largest series of patients, with the largest mean prostate size, treated by any endoscopic surgical method. HoLEP may be the ideal treatment for men with prostates of > 125 mL with symptoms of bladder outlet obstruction.
Embryonic genetic load in the highbush blueberry Vaccinium corymbosum (Ericaceae)

Hand-pollinations of 28 autotetraploid V. corymbosum accessions from a single population resulted in lower selfthan outcross seed set. Fertility varied widely, ranging from clones that were effectively female sterile to individuals with high seed yields in both matings. Selfand outcross fertility were highly correlated. A genetic load model was invoked to explain these phenomena. Reduced self-fertility was attributed to homozygosity for sublethal mutations at loci controlling embryo development, or to loss of heterotic interactions at these loci. Near zero cross-fertility in some clones may be evidence of partially dominant mutational load. Estimates of the number of lethal equivalents per zygote carried by individuals in this population ranged from 2.2 to 20.4, with a mean of 9.6. Embryonic genetic load at the individual level was significantly correlated with heterozygosity at nine enzyme loci. Low pollen viability and reduced receptivity to pollen from any source were also noted in the low fertility genotypes. It is suggested that gametic, gametophytic, and embryonic development are symptomatic of the amount of genetic load carried by individuals.
β-adrenergic regulation of adenosine 3′,5′-monophosphate concentration in brain microvessels

Norepinephrine increases the concentration of adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cyclic AMP) in an incubated suspension of brain microvessels. This response can be matched by other drugs that stimulate the beta receptors, but the alpha-adrenergic agonist phenylephrine is without effect; beta-adrenergic blockade abolishes the response while alpha-adrenergic blockade produces no change. The data support the contention that cerebral capillary function is subject to adrenergic neural control.
A Real-Time Adaptive High-Gain EKF, Applied to a Quadcopter Inertial Navigation System

The authors demonstrate the practical application of the adaptive high-gain extended Kalman filter (EKF) (AEKF) onboard a quadcopter unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The AEKF presents several advantages in state estimation, as it combines good filtering properties with an increased sensitivity to large perturbations. It does this by varying the high-gain parameter according to a metric called innovation. Unlike many adaptive observers, the AEKF is mathematically proven to globally converge, a significant advantage over the traditional EKF when considering robust controls. The AEKF is implemented on the UAV's inertial navigation system (INS). Full INSs can have problems when sensors are noisy and limited, particularly in the case of highly dynamically unstable systems such as a quadcopter. Simulation and experimental data show that the AEKF is suitable for this INS.
Estimation of skew angle in text image analysis by sensor array processing techniques

A new signal processing method is developed for estimating the skew angle in text document images. Based on a recently introduced multi-line fitting algorithm, the proposed method reformulates the skew detection problem into a special parameter estimation framework such that a signal structure similar to the one in the field of sensor array processing is obtained. Then the well-studied techniques in that formalism (e.g., the ESPRIT algorithm) are exploited to produce a closed-form and high resolution estimate for the skew angle. A simple preprocessing stage transforms each line of text characters into a straight line of a single-pixel width. Then, a virtual planar wave propagation environment reformulates the line fitting problem into the sensor array processing framework, and high resolution signal subspace techniques are used to obtain an estimate of the skew angle. The proposed algorithm possess extensive computational speed superiority over existing single and multiple line fitting algorithms such as the Hough transform method. Details of the proposed skew detection algorithm and experimental results are presented.
Lipoprotein (a), homocysteine, and hypercoagulable states in young men with premature peripheral atherosclerosis: A prospective, controlled analysis

Purpose: Elevated lipoprotein (a) (Lp[a]) lipoprotein, total homocysteine, and hypercoagulable states (HCS) have all been implicated as risk factors for premature-onset atherosclerosis. This study was performed to determine the prevalence of these abnormalities in young men with chronic lower extremity ischemia (peripheral vascular disease [PVD]) and to determine their relative strengths as risk factors for premature peripheral atherosclerosis. Methods: We analyzed 50 young white men (age 45 years or younger at onset of symptoms) and compared them with 45 age-matched white male control subjects. Results: Atherosclerotic risk factors were similar in both groups. The mean (±SEM) Lp(a) lipoprotein level was 36±6 mg/dl among the study patients, compared with 14±2 mg/dl among control subjects ( p =0.02, Mann-Whitney). Twenty (40%) study patients and seven (16%) control subjects had Lp(a) lipoprotein levels of 30 mg/dl or greater (atherosclerotic risk threshold) ( p =0.01, odds ratio=3.62, confidence interval (CI) 1.4 to 9.5). Positive HCS panels (antiphospholipid antibodies or deficiencies in antithrombin III, protein C, or protein S) were nearly twice as prevalent in study patients (n=15,30%) as in controls (n=8,18%), but this difference did not achieve statistical significance. The mean total plasma homocysteine level among the study patients was 15.9±0.9 μmol/L, which was not significantly different from the mean control value of 14.7±0.7 μmol/L. Lp(a) lipoprotein was related to risk of premature PVD through a linear logistic relationship ( p =0.003, odds ratio per each 1 mg/dl Lp(a) change was 1.03, CI 1.0 to 1.1). Multivariate analysis with stepwise logistic regression selected two variables: Lp(a) lipoprotein≥30 mg/dl ( p =0.01, odds ratio=3.6, CI 1.3 to 9.9) and family history ( p =0.07, odds ratio=2,2, CI 0.9 to 5.3). Tests of interaction demonstrated no effect between Lp(a) lipoprotein, HCS, and homocysteine. Conclusions: Lp(a) lipoprotein of 30 mg/dl or greater is an independent risk factor for premature peripheral atherosclerosis in men. None of the other examined variables exhibited a significant association with premature PVD.
Exploring Refinements in Targeted Behavioral Medicine Intervention to Advance Public Health

Similar to other fields, a targeted behavioral medicine perspective can aid decision-making related to participant–intervention matching. To present one potentially useful definition of intervention targeting activity; describe potential targeting domains of particular relevance to behavioral medicine; discuss different statistical approaches to aid the targeted intervention development process; and discuss the challenges and opportunities accompanying the incorporation of targeted intervention development methods into behavioral randomized clinical trial (RCT) research. Drawing from recent conceptual work by the MacArthur group and other scientists in the field, methods and approaches to undertaking moderator analysis are discussed. Examples of moderator analyses are provided which reflect the different statistical methods and variable domains that may serve as moderators of intervention success. The recommended exploratory work can help to make the most efficient use of RCTs to identify the best paths for subsequent RCT development in a resource-constrained era.
OBSERVATIONS ON PTYXIS, PHENOLOGY, AND TRICHOMES IN THE CYCADALES AND THEIR SYSTEMATIC IMPLICATIONS

Ptyxis, phenology, and leaf trichomes are described for 43 species representing all ten genera in the Cycadales. The typical annual growth sequence is: leaf flush production, cataphyll production, reproductive production, and finally cataphyll production in all taxa except Stangeria which does not have cataphylls and produces leaves one at a time throughout the year. The leaf and cataphyll bases are slightly winged except in Zamia and Ceratozamia, which have well developed stipules, and in Stangeria, which has a distinctive adaxial, stipular hood on the leaf bases. Longitudinal ptyxis of the whole leaf is of four types: circinate (only in Bowenia); erect (Cycas, Dioon, Encephalartos, Lepidozamia, Macrozamia, Microcycas, and some Zamia spp.); inflexed (Stangeria, Ceratozamia, and some Zamia spp.); and reflexed (rarely found in Cycas and Dioon). The pinnae are oriented so that the horizontal ptyxis is conduplicate in all taxa except Bowenia and Cycas where it is involute. The individual pinnae are circinate in Bowenia and Cycas, conduplicate in Stangeria, and flat in all other taxa. The pinnules of Bowenia are also flat. Leaf trichomes are of six types: transparent unbranched; transparent branched; colored unbranched; colored branched; colored idioblastic; and short colored curved. Cycas has only transparent branched (unequally) and unbranched. Ceratozamia, Dioon, Encephalartos, and Stangeria have transparent and colored trichomes, both unbranched. Bowenia, Lepidozamia and Macrozamia have short colored curved hairs and transparent unbranched hairs. Macrozamia is the only taxon with colored idioblastic trichomes. Zamia and Microcycas have transparent and colored hairs. Both trichome types occur branched and unbranched. Because of its decompound leaf, circinate ptyxis, cones on short determinate branches and other distinct characters the family Boweniaceae D. Stevenson fam. nov. is described. This family contains one genus: Bowenia.
Characterization of Listeria monocytogenes-induced murine natural killer cells.

The thorough characterization of NK cells obtained in vitro is important as it provides a means to further our understanding of the significance of NK cells in tumorigenesis, microbial infection and hematopoietic development. It has proven very difficult to obtain cell lines that resemble in vitro NK cells both phenotypically and functionally. Further work to determine the origin and function of these cells will depend en this groundwork.