cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
ELECTROSTATIC REPULSION BETWEEN MOLECULES OF LIKE CHARGE CAN BE MISINTERPRETED AS BINDING

Spectroscopic methods have shown that Ca2+ chelators interact with Ca2(+)-binding proteins. These spectral alterations have been interpreted as evidence for the binding of chelator by the proteins. We show by direct examination of EDTA interaction with calmodulin and alpha-lactalbumin that these proteins repel EDTA rather than bind it. The repulsion is reduced by increased salt concentration but is unaffected by Ca2+ binding to the proteins. The acidic protein, alpha-lactalbumin, repells the negatively charged EDTA and inorganic phosphate whereas the basic protein, lysozyme, repells the positively charged spermine. Thus, spectroscopic changes induced by negatively charged Ca2+ chelators on negatively charged Ca2(+)-binding proteins are due to electrostatic repulsion, and not to binding. These observations underscore the possible pitfalls of using spectroscopic methods alone to analyze protein-ligand interactions.
Effects of co-vibrotactile stimulations around the torso on non-volitional postural responses

The purpose of this study was to characterize the effects of co-vibrotactile stimulations around the torso on non-volitional postural responses in the absence of instructions. Four healthy young adults maintained an upright, erect posture with their eyes closed in two different stance conditions: normal and Romberg stance. Six vibrotactile transducers (tactors) were placed on the skin over the right and left external oblique, internal oblique, and erector spinae muscles. Either a combination of vibration at two locations or all locations around the torso was applied for 5 s during each experimental trial. Regardless of stance condition, vibration applied concurrently over the right and left internal oblique muscle locations and the right and left erector spinae muscle locations induced a postural shift in the anterior and posterior directions, respectively. For these two stimulation conditions, the root-mean-square of sway in the anterior-posterior direction was significantly greater during vibration than before or after stimulation. However, simultaneous activation of all tactors, a combination of right internal oblique and right erector spinae locations, and a combination of left internal oblique and left erector spinae locations did not produce significant directional postural shifts or increases in sway, regardless of the stance condition. These findings suggest that stimuli combinations contribute to a vector summation of individual postural responses described in our previous work and that they could be leveraged in balance-related applications of sensory augmentation vibrotactile displays.
DLW: a computer program for the calculation of total energy expenditure in doubly labeled water ( 2 H 2 18 O)studies

The double labeled water technique for determination of the rate of total energy expenditure in human subjects is based on measurement of the differential rates of disappearance of 2H and 18O from body water following oral administration of 2H218O. Two calculation procedures, the "two-point" and "slope-intercept" methods of calculation have previously been validated for use in humans. We describe here a computer program. DLW, that provides options to calculate doubly labeled water data in each of these accepted ways.
Translation events in cross-language information retrieval

Cross-Language Information Retrieval (CLIR) systems enable users to formulate queries in their native language to retrieve documents in foreign languages. Because queries and documents in CLIR do not necessarily share the same language, translation is needed before matching can take place. This translation step tends to cause a reduction in the retrieval performance of CLIR as compared to monolingual information retrieval. To understand the events occurring in crosslanguage retrieval query translation and the relation of these events to retrieval performance, the study explored the following research questions:
Aggressive surgical therapy after irradiation failure in treatment of cancer of the oral tongue.

• Fifty-three consecutive unrandomized patients with squamous cell cancer of the oral tongue were retrospectively studied to compare the results of an aggressive surgical approach performed as primary therapy or as salvage after irradiation failure. Twenty-five patients underwent surgery primarily, while 23 of 28 patients treated with curative irradiation required surgical salvage. Tumor staging was equivalent between the two groups. Local recurrences at the site of origin of the tumor within two years postoperatively were significantly more frequent in salvage patients (10.0%) than in primary surgical patients (5.5%). Cervical lymph node recurrences within five years were more frequent in the salvage surgery group (74.8% V 36.7%). Systemic metastases developed in a similar proportion in both groups. Determinate fiveyear survivals were nearly identical (55.2% v 55.5%). Although recurrence rates were significantly higher after irradiation and salvage surgery, an aggressive surgical effort in patients who are irradiation failures can result in five-year survival rates matching those of surgical patients. (Arch Surg1984;119:394-399)
Ramsey Properties of Finite Posets II

We classify Fraisse classes of finite posets with convex linear orderings with respect to the Ramsey property and extend the list of extremely amenable groups and universal minimal flows thanks to a theory developed by Kechris et al. (Geom Funct Anal 15:106–189, 2005). For the structures from the Schmerl list for which this technique is not applicable, we provide a direct calculation of universal minimal flows.
Cosmic (Super)String Constraints from 21 cm Radiation.

We calculate the contribution of cosmic strings arising from a phase transition in the early Universe, or cosmic superstrings arising from brane inflation, to the cosmic 21 cm power spectrum at redshifts z{>=}30. Future experiments can exploit this effect to constrain the cosmic string tension G{mu} and probe virtually the entire brane inflation model space allowed by current observations. Although current experiments with a collecting area of {approx}1 km{sup 2} will not provide any useful constraints, future experiments with a collecting area of 10{sup 4}-10{sup 6} km{sup 2} covering the cleanest 10% of the sky can, in principle, constrain cosmic strings with tension G{mu} > or approx. 10{sup -10}-10{sup -12} (superstring/phase transition mass scale >10{sup 13} GeV)
Dose-related effect of IGF-I on placental prostanoid release☆

Abstract Prostanoids play an important role throughout all of pregnancy and during the initiation and progress of labor. The human placenta at term produces large quantities of prostanoids, yet little is known of the factors regulating their biosynthesis. In a previous study we observed that insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) specifically inhibits thromboxane B2 (TxB2) and prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) from human term placental explants. In these studies we have defined the dose-related action of IGF-I on the release of placental prostanoids. With use of a perifusion system, the basal release of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), PGF2α, TxB2 and 6-keto-prostaglandin F1α (6-keto-PGF1α) from human term placental explants increased from the fifth hour in culture, while the release of 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-PGF2α (PGFM) remained constant. The addition of IGF-I (5.2–83.3 ng/mL) to the perifusing medium effected an inhibition of TxB2 and PGF2α. The release of TxB2 was inhibited in a dose-related fashion from the initiation of IGF-I treatment and throughout the five hours of treatment, whereas the inhibition of PGF2α was significant only at a dose of 83.3 ng/mL of IGF-I. Yet, the release of 6-keto-PGF1α, PGE2, or PGFM was not altered by any dose of IGF-I studied. Because both TxB2 and PGF2α are vasoconstrictors, we have proposed that IGF-I may enhance vasodilation in the placenta. Therefore, IGF-I may allow for increased blood flow, thus affecting the maintenance of pregnancy and the supply of nutrients available for the growth of the fetus.
7.3.3 A Lifetime Extension Strategy for Simulation Models

Using a systems engineering approach, a lifetime extension strategy for legacy simulation systems is presented. This lifetime extension strategy establishes a bridge allowing legacy simulation systems to participate in a larger more diverse simulation community. Previous recommendations to solve this legacy simulation problem have been narrow in scope viewing the solution in terms of a single technical solution. However, like systems engineering, this strategy describes a solution using a multilayered interdisciplinary approach. This approach takes advantage of existing technologies across the hardware and software spectrum and presents a five-year convergence strategy.
Preference of Endoscopic Ablation Over Medical Prevention of Esophageal Adenocarcinoma by Patients With Barrett’s Esophagus

Background & Aims Endoscopic intervention or pharmacologic inhibition of cyclooxygenase might be used to prevent progression of Barrett's esophagus (BE) to esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). We investigated whether patients with BE prefer endoscopic therapy or chemoprevention of EAC. Methods Eighty-one subjects with nondysplastic BE were given a survey that described 2 scenarios. The survey explained that treatment A (ablation), endoscopy, reduced lifetime risk of EAC by 50%, with 5% risk for esophageal stricture, whereas treatment B (aspirin) reduced lifetime risk of EAC by 50% and the risk of heart attack by 30%, yet increased the risk for ulcer by 75%. Subjects indicated their willingness to undergo either treatment A and/or treatment B if endoscopic surveillance were required every 3–5 years, every 10 years, or were not required. Visual aids were included to represent risk and benefit percentages. Results When surveillance was required every 3–5 years, more subjects were willing to undergo treatment A than treatment B (78%, 63 of 81 vs 53%, 43 of 81; P Conclusions In a simulated scenario, patients with BE preferred endoscopic intervention over chemoprevention for EAC. Further investigation of the shared decision-making process regarding preventive strategies for patients with BE may be warranted.
Photo-induced nicking of deoxyribonucleic acid by ruthenium(II)-bleomycin in the presence of air.

Abstract A new metallobleomycin, ruthenium(II)-blemycin A 2 was prepared. When irradiated at 366 nm the ruthenium complex (1–10 μM) was found to break a 121-base pair DNA restriction fragment at specific sites (usually the pyrimidine residues located at the 3′-side of guanine). Care was taken to rule out complications due to the presence of trace amounts of iron. Photo-induced damage by cobalt-bleomycin in the presence of light, and redoxmediated damage by bleomycin and iron produced DNA cleavage at sites similar to ruthenium-bleomycin. In contrast to cobalt-bleomycin, ruthenium-bleomycin required oxygen as well as light to cause significant damage to DNA.
Tuning, attenuating, and switching by controlled flexure of long-period fiber gratings.

Azimuthal variations in the refractive index that are inherent in CO2-laser-induced long-period fiber gratings (LPFG’s) coupled to small controlled flexure of the LPFG produce a wide variety of transmission characteristics as a function of LPFG curvature. The particularly useful cases of (1) wavelength tuning at a constant attenuation and (2) variable attenuation (switching) at a constant wavelength are demonstrated by flexing of LPFG’s that have been appropriately axially rotationally oriented relative to the plane of curvature.
Isolation of tetrahydroaldosterone 3β-glucosiduronic acid from urine

Abstract Crystalline tetrahydroaldosterone 3β-glucosiduronic acid has been isolated from human urine, its structure has been determined, and several derivatives of it have been prepared and characterized.
Experiments with 315-Mev Polarized Protons. I. Elastic Scattering by Complex Nuclei

In this paper we describe experiments with high-energy polarized protons, (\ensuremath{\sim}315 Mev), their production, and their scattering from complex nuclei. We give the essentials of the theory of polarization of particles of spin \textonehalf{} in a form suitable for the interpretation of the experimental results. Included is a detailed description of the experimental techniques, the characteristics of the polarized beam, and a discussion of the errors of measurement. The beam was 76% polarized and the maximum beam current was approximately ${10}^{5}$ protons per second. Results of the scattering experiments on beryllium, carbon, aluminum, calcium, iron, and tantalum are described. Some results of triple-scattering experiments, which further determine the scattering matrix, are also given. The relation of the experimental results to the various theories proposed for explaining the polarization by scattering is discussed. Only qualitative agreement with the theoretical studies made on current models is achieved. Although many of the features predicted by the usual types of potentials are present, no single potential can account for all the observed facts.
The metal ion requirements of Arabidopsis thaliana Glx2-2 for catalytic activity.

In an effort to better understand the structure, metal content, the nature of the metal centers, and enzyme activity of Arabidopsis thaliana Glx2-2, the enzyme was overexpressed, purified, and characterized using metal analyses, kinetics, and UV–vis, EPR, and 1H NMR spectroscopies. Glx2-2-containing fractions that were purple, yellow, or colorless were separated during purification, and the differently colored fractions were found to contain different amounts of Fe and Zn(II). Spectroscopic analyses of the discrete fractions provided evidence for Fe(II), Fe(III), Fe(III)–Zn(II), and antiferromagnetically coupled Fe(II)–Fe(III) centers distributed among the discrete Glx2-2-containing fractions. The individual steady-state kinetic constants varied among the fractionated species, depending on the number and type of metal ion present. Intriguingly, however, the catalytic efficiency constant, k cat/K m, was invariant among the fractions. The value of k cat/K m governs the catalytic rate at low, physiological substrate concentrations. We suggest that the independence of k cat/K m on the precise makeup of the active-site metal center is evolutionarily related to the lack of selectivity for either Fe versus Zn(II) or Fe(II) versus Fe(III), in one or more metal binding sites.
Is the nectar redox cycle a floral defense against microbial attack

Many angiosperms use a remarkable reproductive strategy that relies on attracting animals (insect, avian or mammalian pollinators) to transfer pollen between plants. Relying on other organisms for sexual reproduction seems evolutionarily untenable, but the great diversity of angiosperms illustrates how highly successful this strategy is. To attract pollinators, plants offer a variety of rewards. Perhaps the primary floral reward is floral nectar. Plant nectar has long been considered a simple sugar solution but recent work has demonstrated that nectar is a complex biological fluid containing significant and important biochemistry with the potential function of inhibiting microbial growth. These results lead the way to novel insights into the mechanisms of floral defense and the co-evolution of angiosperms and their pollinators.
The dilated pore of Winer--an overlooked cutaneous lesion of cats.

Abstract A retrospective study of 125 cutaneous cystic lesions in cats from 1978 to 1987 revealed 14 examples of the dilated pore of Winer, a lesion previously described in man and in one cat. Histologically, this lesion appears as a flask-like cystic structure with a wide external opening and laminated keratinaceous content. The cyst is characterized by a thickened wall with numerous, closely apposed rete ridges, either at its base or throughout most of the circumference, with a thinner atrophic wall approaching the os. Clinically, the lesion is a hairless nodule or visible cutaneous defect containing either soft keratinaceous material or, more commonly, projections of horn-like material. In man, the lesion is believed to be either a hamartoma or a benign neoplastic process. Surgical excision is curative.
Controllability, extremality, and abnormality in nonsmooth optimal control

We derive sufficient conditions for controllability and necessary conditions for minimum in nonsmooth optimal control problems defined by differential or functional-integral equations with isoperimetric and unilateral restrictions. We consider the cases when the controls are relaxed or chosen fromabundant sets of original (ordinary) controls (which include most, or all, of the control sets studied in the literature). We prove that, if there exist optimal strictly original controls (that is, controls that are optimal in an abundant set but not among relaxed controls), then the problem admits abnormal extremals. We also study the abnormality of the optimal strictly original controls themselves.
Drug Repurposing Screen Reveals FDA-Approved Inhibitors of Human HMG-CoA Reductase and Isoprenoid Synthesis That Block Cryptosporidium parvum Growth

Cryptosporidiosis, a diarrheal disease usually caused by Cryptosporidium parvum or Cryptosporidium hominis in humans, can result in fulminant diarrhea and death in AIDS patients and chronic infection and stunting in children. Nitazoxanide, the current standard of care, has limited efficacy in children and is no more effective than placebo in patients with advanced AIDS. Unfortunately, the lack of financial incentives and the technical difficulties associated with working with Cryptosporidium parasites have crippled efforts to develop effective treatments. In order to address these obstacles, we developed and validated (Z' score = 0.21 to 0.47) a cell-based high-throughput assay and screened a library of drug repurposing candidates (the NIH Clinical Collections), with the hopes of identifying safe, FDA-approved drugs to treat cryptosporidiosis. Our screen yielded 21 compounds with confirmed activity against C. parvum growth at concentrations of <10 μM, many of which had well-defined mechanisms of action, making them useful tools to study basic biology in addition to being potential therapeutics. Additional work, including structure-activity relationship studies, identified the human 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitor itavastatin as a potent inhibitor of C. parvum growth (50% inhibitory concentration [IC(50)] = 0.62 μM). Bioinformatic analysis of the Cryptosporidium genomes indicated that the parasites lack all known enzymes required for the synthesis of isoprenoid precursors. Additionally, itavastatin-induced growth inhibition of C. parvum was partially reversed by the addition of exogenous isopentenyl pyrophosphate, suggesting that itavastatin reduces Cryptosporidium growth via on-target inhibition of host HMG-CoA reductase and that the parasite is dependent on the host cell for synthesis of isoprenoid precursors.
Low-Energy X-ray and Ozone-Exposure Induced Defect Formation in Graphene Materials and Devices

We have evaluated the responses of graphene materials and devices to 10-keV X-ray irradiation and ozone exposure. Large positive shifts are observed in the current-voltage characteristics of graphene-on- SiO2 transistors irradiated under negative gate bias. Moreover, significant radiation-induced increases are found in the resistance of suspended graphene layers; the charge neutral point (CNP) of the graphene layer also shifts positively with increasing total dose. Raman spectroscopy shows that similar defects are generated in graphene-on-SiO2 sheets by 10-keV X-ray irradiation and ozone exposure. First principles calculations of the relevant binding energies, and reaction and diffusion barriers for oxygen on graphene, strongly suggest that oxygen adsorption and reactions, along with the resulting p -type doping, can lead to the observed degradation of irradiated or ozone-exposed graphene materials and devices.
Positioning Your Library for Solar (and Financial) Gain. Improving Energy Efficiency, Lighting, and Ventilation with Primarily Passive Techniques.

Abstract This article stresses the importance of building design above technology as a relatively inexpensive way to reduce energy costs for a library. Emphasis is placed on passive solar design for heat and daylighting, but also examines passive ventilation and cooling, green roofs, and building materials. Passive design is weighed against technologies that actively capture renewable energy. Best practice examples include new construction and retrofits. Active technologies for capturing renewable energies, such as photovoltaic panels, can be employed when passive solutions are not realistic due to limitations resulting from site selection. Building or remodeling an environmentally sustainable building is more costly than a conventional equivalent, but long-term savings in energy and maintenance can more than compensate for the initial investment. Passive solar heat is particularly compatible with library functionality because it invites natural light into living spaces and eliminates noise that would otherwise exist with forced-air HVAC systems. Practical suggestions for subtle improvements to existing buildings are offered in addition to more ambitious construction projects.
DER integration framework and projects in utility industry in north America and Europe

The Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) is leading a five-year smart grid demonstration initiative to advance interoperability of DER. This presentation will provide a brief overview of a variety of large-scale projects nationally and internationally that are integrating DER discussing the challenges and opportunities that are surfacing in these projects. The methodology and resulting framework being implemented to integrate DER will be discussed along with the process to communicate to lessons learned and gaps that may require additional research to foster the advancement of these smart grid applications.
Of four murine, anti-Shigella itdysenteriae type 1 O-polysaccharide antibodies, three employ V-genes that differ extensively from those of the fourth

Three murine, monoclonal antibodies, IgM 5286 F2, IgM 5297 Cl, and IgG 5338 H4 were generated against Shigella dysenteriae type 1 O-specific polysaccharide (O-SP)-conjugate. They are specific for the O-SP, which is a poly-[α-l-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→3)-α-l-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→2)-α-d-galactopyranosyl-(1→3)-2-deoxy-2-amino-N-acetyl-α-d- glucopyranosyl]. The VH and VL genes of these antibodies were cloned and their sequences determined. They showed 93% homology, but were quite different to the primary sequence of IgM 3707 E9, of the same O-SP-specificity, previously reported. The fine-specificities of both IgG 5338 H4 and IgM 3707 E9 were for the same disaccharide moiety in the O-SP, while IgMs 5286 F2 and 5297 C1 showed fine-specificity for the entire repeating unit of the O-SP. Therefore, divergent sequences can confer upon antibodies similar-, or even identical-carbohydrate-epitope fine-specificity. In addition, close primary sequence-homology does not preclude differences in antibody fine-specificity.
Early Removal of .Retained Biliary Stone Without T-Tube Removal: Case Report

Techniques for removal of retained common bile duct stones through mature tracts are safe and well established. When symptomatic, the stones may require removal prior to the 4–6-week period required for tract maturation. We report a case in which substituting a Teflon sheath for the standard polyethylene basket sheath allowed manipulation through the T-tube lumen and basketing of an impacted distal common bile duct stone, which had caused pancreatitis. This technique is simple and avoids the problem of loss of access to the biliary tree in the early postoperative period.
Effective attenuation of signals in noise under focused attention.

When attending to a tone at a given frequency, listeners are most sensitive to that tone and others within a restricted band of frequencies surrounding it. This region of enhanced sensitivity defines the attention band that was measured in two experiments using a modified version of the probe-signal method of Greenberg and Larkin [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 44, 1513–1523 (1968)]. Experiment 1 showed that at five center frequencies, from 0.25 to 4.0 kHz, the shape of the attention band resembles that of the auditory filter as inferred from notched-noise masking experiments by other investigators. The width of the attention band is close to the critical band at higher frequencies, but only half as wide at 0.25 and 0.5 kHz. Experiment 2 produced psychometric functions for unattended probe tones at least 0.23 kHz away from a fully attended, 1-kHz target tone. From these functions, the effective attenuation, measured as the threshold difference between the 1-kHz target and the probes, was estimated to be 7 dB; the amount of attenuation appeared to be about the same regardless of how far the probe frequency was from the attended band. One interpretation of these results is that bands centered on the unattended tones contribute to the decision process with some small but measurable weight and are not entirely ignored.
Treatment of Hay Fever With the Antihistamine Desloratadine: Impact on Performance of Simple, Intermediate, and Complex Task Requirements1

Seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR), which is known as hay fever, can diminish task performance and quality of life. Antihistamines are used to treat the symptoms of SAR. This research compared desloratadine with placebo for the treatment of SAR. Additional baseline data were obtained outside the allergy season. Nine real-world equivalent performance scores were obtained from individuals participating in the Strategic Management Simulation. For easier task demands, no difference between treatment conditions was observed. For demands of intermediate difficulty, SAR diminished performance and desloratadine restored performance to baseline. For the most challenging task demands, desloratadine treatment improved performance over allergy season placebo treatment. The data suggest that the beneficial effects of desloratadine vary with task difficulty.
Dexmedetomidine: pediatric pharmacology, clinical uses and safety.

Importance of the field: Dexmedetomidine is an α2-adrenoceptor agonist with sedative, anxiolytic and analgesic properties. It is used off-label in pediatric patients due to its efficacy and lack of adverse respiratory effects. Dexmedetomidine may cause severe circulatory complications in adults. Despite its popularity, the safety of dexmedetomidine in the pediatric population has not been extensively studied.Areas covered in this review: This article reviews the current literature (up to 2010) focusing on applications and safety of dexmedetomidine administered to pediatric patients.What the reader will gain: Dexmedetomidine is a useful sedative and anxiolytic drug in the pediatric intensive care unit as well as during diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Deleterious effects of dexmedetomidine include hypotension and bradycardia. Additionally, hypertension may occur during the “loading dose” or with high infusion rates. Few studies have been performed to evaluate the safety of dexmedetomidine in pediatri...
Contrasting effect of similar effective regurgitant orifice area in mitral and tricuspid regurgitation: A quantitative Doppler echocardiographic study

We compared the effect of similar effective regurgitant orifice (ERO) areas in tricuspid regurgitation (TR) and mitral regurgitation (MR) on hemodynamics and volume overload, and examined the impact on grading of TR and MR severity. In a prospective study, 95 patients with TR in sinus rhythm were compared with 95 patients with MR in sinus rhythm matched for ERO area, age, and body surface area. We found that similar ERO area was associated with decreased volume overload in TR compared with MR. There were more women with TR than with MR, but comparison stratified by sex confirmed that regurgitant volume (RVol) was smaller in TR than in MR for similar ERO area. However, patients with systolic venous flow reversal (hepatic for TR and pulmonary for MR) had lower RVol but similar ERO area in TR compared with MR. Therefore, optimal diagnostic thresholds for severe regurgitation (maximum sum of sensitivity and specificity) in TR and MR were different for RVol (45 and 60 mL/beat, respectively) but similar for ERO area (40 mm(2)). We conclude that similar ERO areas induce less RVol in TR than in MR because of the decreased driving force in TR, but have similar consequences with regard to venous flow reversal. Therefore, a similar ERO area grading scheme can be used, and an ERO area of 40 mm(2) or greater is consistent with severe regurgitation in both TR and MR.
Diode Laser Measurements of H2O Line Intensities and Self-Broadening Coefficients in the 1.4-μM Region

Abstract Spectrally resolved measurements of pure water vapor absorption spectra have been performed with a tunable diode laser. The laser, a distributed feedback InGaAsP diode, emits in the 1.4-μm region. A total of 12 lines were studied corresponding to rovibrational transitions within the ν 1 + ν 3 and 2ν 1 vibrational bands. A Voigt profile analysis of lineshape is used to infer both intensities and self-collision-broadening coefficients of the water vapor. Good agreement is found between the observed line intensities and those recently measured by Toth. These results are apparently the first published measurements of the broadening coefficient within this spectral range.
Variations in some inorganic components and physical properties of claw keratin associated with claw disease in the British Friesian cow

Abstract Horn hardness, water content and mineral composition were measured in the feet of 42 Friesian cows, 27 with no history and 15 with a history of lameness. Water content and magnesium concentration increased with age, potassium concentration was lower in the hooves of pregnant animals, but none of the variates was affected by lactation. Horn hardness was related to composition, the harder keratin of the claw wall containing more calcium, copper, zinc and phosphorus and lower concentrations of water, sodium, potassium and iron than the heel. Zinc concentration was lower in the horn of lame animals but those of magnesium and copper were increased. Mineral composition varied significantly with respect to the position of the horn in the claw (heel, sole or wall). The results are discussed with regard to the function of the horn constituents.
Loop corrected entropy of near extremal dilatonic p-branes

Abstract It has recently been shown that for certain classical non-dilatonic p-branes, the entropy and temperature satisfy the ideal-gas relation S ∼ Tp in the near-extremal regime. We extend these results to cases where the dilaton is non-vanishing, but nevertheless remains finite on the horizon in the extremal limit, showing that the ideal-gas relation is again satisfied. At the classical level, however, this relation does break down if the dilaton diverges on the horizon. We argue that such a divergence indicates the breakdown of the validity of the classical approximation, and that by taking string and worldsheet loop corrections into account, the validity of the entropy/temperature relation may be extended to include these cases. This opens up the possibility of giving a microscopic interpretation of the entropy for all near-extremal p-branes.
Measurement of oxygen grain boundary diffusion in natural, fine-grained, quartz aggregates

Grain boundary diffusion measurements using fine-grained, natural, monomineralic aggregates offer several distinct advantages over techniques previously employed. Pure quartz aggregates (Arkansas novaculite), with 1.2 and 4.9 μm diameter grains, were annealed at 450–800°C and 100 MPa confining pressure in 18O-enriched water. Profiles of 18O(18O + 16O) with depth from the surface were measured using an ion microprobe, and data were collected from an area 68 μm in diameter in order to obtain a well-averaged value for many grain boundaries. Using graphical solutions appropriate to the boundary conditions employed, the product of the average grain boundary diffusion coefficient (D′) and effective boundary width (δ) is obtained and is independent of the grain size, geometry, and grain boundary tortuosity. Arrhenius parameters for the 1.2 and 4.9 μm grain size samples are: D′0δ = 2.6 and 3.4 × 10−17 m3/sec, and Q = 27 ± 1 and 26 ± 3 kcal/mol, respectively. Measured values of D′δ were about three times greater for the 4.9 μm aggregate, although this might be due in part to thermal cracking while going to temperature. The activation energy of both samples, ~ 27 kcal/mol ( 113 kJ/mol), is significantly less than that for volume diffusion of oxygen in quartz, but greater than that for ionic diffusion in a static fluid. Measured D′δ values are within the range of most previous estimates. For a representative effective grain boundary width of 1 nm, the oxygen grain boundary diffusion coefficients are 4 to 6 orders of magnitude greater than oxygen volume diffusion coefficients in quartz single crystals, and ~6 orders of magnitude less than ionic diffusion coefficients in a static fluid, over the temperature range of the experiments.
Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH): a review of literature

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare disease in children and an exceptionally rare occurrence in adults. It is categorized broadly into primary (familial) or the secondary types; the latter being associated most commonly with an underlying malignancy. HLH carries a high rate of mortality, and the treatment itself is associated with significant morbidity and risk of mortality. A high degree of suspicion for the diagnosis, early treatment and aggressive supportive care is critical for management. We present a comprehensive review of literature describing the clinical features, diagnosis, management and outcome of HLH.
Hypopharyngeal Gastric Choristoma in an Infant Resulting in Airway Obstruction

Gastric choristoma (GC) is a relatively common congenital condition characterized by the presence of heterotopic gastric tissue outside the bounds of the gastric cavity. Although GCs may occur anywhere along the alimentary tract, they rarely occur in the hypopharynx. Hypopharyngeal GCs often declare themselves clinically during the neonatal period with life-threatening obstructive respiratory symptoms and/or feeding difficulty. We present a case of GC of the posterior pharyngeal wall manifesting as progressive dysphagia with failure to thrive and intermittent stridor.
Chirospecific synthesis of D and Lp-chlorohomophenylalanine N-t-BOC DCHA salts

The chirospecific conversions of D-glucosamine hydrochloride and D-mannosamine hydrochloride to the configurationally stable L and D isomers of N-t-butyloxycarbonylserinal were carried out byt-butylcarbonylation followed by sodium borohydride reduction and sodium meta-periodate oxidation. Reaction of the L and D aldehydes with the Wittig reagent prepared from 4-chlorobenzyltriphenylphosphonium chloride and butyl lithium followed by catalytic hydrogenation, Jones oxidation and salt formation with dicyclohexylamine gave the DCHA salts of the D and L isomers ofp-chlorohomophenylalanine N-t-Boc in high enatiomeric excess. The optical purity of the title compounds was established by hydrolysis to the respective free amino acids, followed by chiral derivatization and HPLC analysis.
In search of gender bias in evaluations and trait inferences: The role of diagnosticity and gender stereotypicality of behavioral information

Meta-analytic reviews indicate that the gender of a target person has a significant but small impact on evaluators' judgments about this person. The present study examines the extent to which this small effect reflects evaluators' tendencies not to use an evaluatee's gender because they assume that case information about a target is more informative about his or her abilities, knowledge, and traits than is gender. The first study indicates that decreasing the diagnosticity of case information does not increase the tendency for people to be influenced by the target's gender. However, the first and second study illustrate that despite the weak influence of the target's gender, subjects are still using gender stereotypes when making social judgments about the evaluatee. This is evidenced by the impact of the stereotypicality of the case information. This is most clearly seen in Study 2, which illustrates how components of gender stereotypes are influencing judgments.
Recognition memory for conspecific and heterospecific song in juvenile zebra finches, Taeniopygia guttata

We conducted two experiments on song memorization in zebra finches using a new measure of song recognition memory. We passively exposed zebra finches to songs presented from a loudspeaker, then trained them to discriminate a subset of the exposed songs from novel ones in a Go/No-go operant discrimination between familiar and novel songs. Following discrimination training, untrained exposed and novel probe songs were presented without reinforcement. The birds generalized their responses from the training songs to the unreinforced probe songs, demonstrating recognition memory for the previously exposed probe songs. The results show that juvenile females (experiment 1) and juvenile males (experiment 2) memorize several conspecific songs through passive exposure. Song recognition memory was maintained for a minimum of 3 weeks (experiment 1), and there was no difference in recognition memory for conspecific or heterospecific songs in juvenile males that were exposed to song during the sensitive period (experiment 2). The new procedure uses the power of operant conditioning techniques to assess recognition memory, while controlling for possible artificial influences of operant procedures on the song memorization process. The findings of experiment 2 have implications for theories of selective learning of bird song.
Anti-endothelial cell antibodies are prevalent in juvenile idiopathic arthritis: implications for clinical disease course and pathogenesis

To determine the prevalence of anti-endothelial cell antibodies (AECA) in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) versus healthy control children. Twenty-eight children with active JIA were studied (ten each with polyarticular and oligoarticular disease, and eight with systemic onset disease). AECA were determined by a cell-based ELISA from samples obtained every 3 months over a 2 year period in each subject. These levels were compared against previously determined levels of von Willebrand factor antigen, fibrin d-dimer, and soluble forms of ICAM-1 and E-selectin, as well as clinical measures of disease activity. AECA were detected in 5/10 oligoarticular, 6/10 polyarticular, and 7/8 systemic JIA subjects and 0/14 controls. Mean levels of AECA were significantly higher in subjects with oligoarticular, and especially systemic disease as compared to polyarticular and control groups when analyzed by ANOVA. AECA are prevalent in JIA and are present more often and at higher levels in systemic disease.
The conduction properties of GeGaAs1−xPxn−n heterojunctions

Abstract n -type Ge has been grown epitaxially on GaAs 1− x P x substrates of 4 × 10 17 cm −3 donors at 360°C. The substrates have 〈111〉 orientation and a composition range of x = 0, 0·1 and 0·3. Junctions made with x = 0 or 0·1 exhibit diode behaviour that can be interpreted by the metal-semiconductor emission theory modified to take into account the effects of both electron tunnelling and voltage distribution between the semiconductors. The barrier heights have been found to be 0·62 and 0·53 V for the A - and B -surface of substrates with x = 0·1 and 0·50 V and 0·43 V correspondingly with x = 0. The apparent barriers at zero bias are smaller than these values by about 0·2 V due to tunnelling reduction. For substrates with x = 0·3, various measurements tend to suggest a structure of back-to-back diodes. The effect of interface states, as likely produced by the relatively large lattice mismatch in this case (>1 per cent), is believed to be responsible for this structure.
Failure Analysis of Thermal Actuators, Comb Drives, and Other Microelectromechanical Elements

This paper reports on an investigation in which several standard Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS) elements consisting of thermal actuators, inchworm drives, and comb drives were subjected to vibration loading representative of the environment seen in space applications. Finite-element analysis of the MEMS devices showed that sufficient margins existed under the expected environmental loading. Vibration testing, however, resulted in several failures in the devices, and analysis showed that progressive failure initiated from large local displacements. Debris transport and entrapment was another source of failure leading to shorting of thermal actuators. The results illustrate the importance of debris control and packaging design for reliable MEMS operation. Suggestions for improving the reliability of MEMS devices through practical layout and packaging guidelines are made.
Isolated cerebral cortex: Changes in levels of glutamic acid, glutamine, aspartic acid, and γ-aminobutyric acid

Abstract Cerebral cortex of the cat was isolated by undercutting from its neuronal connections with the rest of the brain but not from its blood supply. The cerebral cortex responds to such treatment by changes in electrophysiological activity as well as by decreases in levels of glutamate, aspartate, and γ-aminobutyrate and a rise in glutamine suggesting the establishment of a new steady state for these amino acids. These biochemical changes are most prominent approximately one week after isolation of the tissue. There is no clear time correlation between the development of the electrophysiological abnormality and the tissue levels of these amino acids.
ELECTROSPRAY IONIZATION FOURIER TRANSFORM ION CYCLOTRON RESONANCE MASS SPECTROMETRY

▪ Abstract The basic principles and recent advances in electrospray ionization Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry are reviewed. A brief history of electrospray ionization is provided, along with a complete technical description of the technique, electrospray ionization variations, and advantages. Next, the fundamental principles of Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry are covered, including ion cyclotron motion, ion cyclotron resonance excitation, and image current detection. Instrumentation and methods used to couple these techniques are then described. Topics include ion source configuration, ion transport through a strong magnetic field gradient, and ion trapping methods. The article concludes with selected applications that highlight the strengths of electrospray ionization Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry.
Evolution of strategic management: The need for new dominant designs

The development of strategic management is explained from an evolutionary perspective on the basis of cycles of variation, selection and retention. In industry, breakthrough innovations, or technological discontinuities, initiate eras of ferment that end when a generally accepted standard, or dominant design, starts an era of incremental change. In strategic management, the original definition of strategy initiated an era of ferment characterized by a focus on the environment. The attention to the environment of firms and the integration with other areas of inquiry reached a point of maturity with development of a widely accepted model for analyzing industry and with the definition of generic strategies. The resource-based view of the firm created a new era of ferment by affirming that the main sources of sustainable competitive advantages reside in the development and use of valuable resources. A new period, marked by swift advances in technology and increasingly blurred boundaries among industries, markets and competitors as well as diverse and more complex sources of competitive advantages, imposes on scholars and practitioners an imperative need to conceive new dominant designs. This paper illustrates the evolution toward new directions and challenges of creating new dominant paradigms in strategic management that revolve around the concepts of knowledge, learning, and innovation.
Linear coding for network computing

We study the use of linear codes for network computing in single-receiver networks with various classes of target functions of the source messages. Such classes include reducible, injective, and semi-injective target functions. Computing capacity bounds are given with respect to these target function classes for network codes that use routing, linear coding, or nonlinear coding.
Welfare Issues of Genetically Modified Animals

Genetically engineered animals have opened new frontiers in the study of physiology and disease processes. Mutant animals offer more accurate disease models and increased precision for pathogenesis and treatment studies. Their use offers hope for improved therapy to patients with conditions that currently have poor or ineffective treatments. These advantages have fostered an increase in studies using mice in recent years, a development viewed with alarm by those who oppose the use of animals in research. Scientists point out that the mice are replacing more sentient species, such as nonhuman primates, and are increasing the quality of research being conducted. They assert that study of genetically engineered animals will eventually permit decreases in numbers of animals used in research. Nevertheless, the increase in use of genetically altered animals presents many challenges in reviewing protocols and providing care. Identification and resolution of any welfare problems is a responsibility that is shared by institutional animal care and use committee, veterinary, animal care, and research staffs. To identify potential welfare concerns, a database such as TBASE ( ) can be searched to learn what has been reported for established mutant lines. In addition, newly created lines should be monitored by a surveillance system and have phenotype assessment to identify the effects of altering the genome. Methods of ensuring welfare can include treatment of conditions produced, restriction of gene expression to tissues of interest or to certain time periods, and establishment of endpoints for removing animals from a study before problems appear.
A resource-constrained profit-based dynamic order management model

This research extends the Available-to-Promise (ATP) concept to include both capacity and profitability considerations in a two-level supply chain. The model in study is referred in practice as Profitable-to-Promise (PTP) logic. It provides a decision support system for companies to determine order profitability in real time environment, and allows for order promising and critical resource planning. The efficiency of the PTP model is investigated by comparing it with a capacity decision rule with customer specified due date. Results suggest that capacity loadings influence the choice of model, with the PTP model preferred at higher capacity loadings.
A Structural Analysis of Value, Quality, and Price Perceptions of Business and Leisure Travelers

Customer value has become the focus of firm strategies in recent years. This study investigates the relationships between travelers’ perceptions of value, quality, and price and their influence on travelers’ ratings of similar hotels and revisit intentions in two segments, business and leisure travelers. The findings suggest that value plays a pivotal role in travelers’ decision schema, emphasizing the need to shift efforts from managing quality alone to managing customer value. Differences in the value perceptions of business and leisure travelers emphasize the need to develop segment-based strategies for managing price and quality.