cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Transesophageal echocardiography: diagnostic and clinical applications in the evaluation of the stroke patient.

Objectives. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is superior to transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) in diagnosing cardiac abnormalities that may result in cerebral embolism. The clinical importance of these abnormalities is unclear. Methods . We classified 96 consecutive stroke patients into high- or low-risk groups for cardioembolism based on historical criteria. The presence of left atrial thrombus, atrial smoke, patent foramen ovale, atrial septal aneurysm, and plaque in the ascending aorta was assessed with TEE. Stroke type and other possible stroke mechanisms were evaluated. Results . Left atrial thrombus occurred only in the high-risk group. Patent foramen ovale, atrial septal aneurysm, and most cases of left atrial smoke occurred in the presence of another embolic source or were associated with a stroke related to hypertensive small vessel disease. Protruding atherosclerotic plaque in the ascending aorta and aortic arch was the most significant cause of stroke diagnosed by TEE because it frequently occurred in those without other risk factors for stroke. TEE identified aortic plaque in one and left atrial smoke in two patients with lacunar infarction without risk factors for small vessel disease. Conclusions . TEE should be considered in both lacunar and nonlacunar stroke that occur in the absence of stroke risk factors, although optimal management of most TEE findings is yet to be determined.
A population-based study of body image concerns among urban Chinese adults.

Abstract Using a nationally representative Chinese urban sample of 930 women and 893 men aged 20–45 who were married or had a steady sexual partner, this study examines the prevalence, risk factors and sequelae of body image concerns. Women's weight loss desires begin at modest BMI levels and are more pronounced among youth, among people of urban origin, and among the educated. Women also have stronger body image concerns if they are single, living in coastal areas, taller or larger than their partner, or if their relationship with their partner is poor. Moreover, women who perceive themselves as unattractive and who want to lose weight report more psychological distress. These findings suggest that China has joined the worldwide diffusion of the thin ideal, with negative consequences for women.
Genetic control of somatic cell fusion in a myxomycete.

Somatic cell fusion in the myxomycete Didymium iridis is controlled by at least 11 loci. Each locus has a pair of alternate alleles and diploid cells (plasmodia) must be phenotypically identical in order to fuse freely with each other. Cells with unknown fusion alleles can be tested against genetically defined testers. Thus identification of alleles at known fusion loci is relatively easy. The study of new fusion alleles is much more complex since no testers exist. However, F1's from a given cross can be analysed simultaneously for several new fusion loci without resorting to an additional breeding programme. Theoretical considerations for this procedure are presented. Of the 11 loci, seven have been identified as strong loci; these loci do not permit any plasmodial fusion. Four fusion loci have been identified as weak loci; they allow a partial, temporary fusion which is terminated within 2 to 3 minutes by cytoplasmic coagulation. Possible biochemical mechanisms in these cell recognition phenomena are discussed.
Predicting modality from text queries for medical image retrieval

In recent years, attention has been raised on the use of image modality in medical image retrieval. Several methods have been developed to automatically identify the modality of images and integrate this information to image retrieval systems. Results show that using the modality can significantly improve the performance of these systems. However, doing so also requires to identify the modality expressed in the queries. This task is usually performed by elementary pattern matching techniques that can be applied only to a small proportion of queries. This paper addresses the issue of predicting the modality expressed in the queries in a general way. First, a taxonomy of queries and the specificities of the problem are described. Then, a Bayesian classifier is proposed to automatically predict the modality expressed in the queries, as well as two models to integrate these prediction to an image retrieval system. Experiments performed on data from the ImageCLEFMed 2009 and 2010 challenges show that our approach can outperform current systems in precision, although the performance can differ significantly from one query to another.
The influence of PDL principal fibers in a 3-dimensional analysis of orthodontic tooth movement******

Abstract The effects of mechanical loads on the tooth-alveolus complex are of particular concern in orthodontics. The concepts of center of resistance (CRes) and center of rotation (CRot) are used to characterize tooth responses to orthodontic loads. The mechanical environment (stresses and strains) associated with orthodontic tooth movement is a unique model in bone adaptation physiology. Numerous finite element models of varying complexity have been developed to calculate tooth movements and stress distributions within the alveolar bone and the periodontal ligament (PDL). In general, the PDL has been idealized as a homogeneous isotropic material. For this project, a 3-dimensional tooth/PDL/mandible/finite element model was developed in which, for the first time in such an analysis, the PDL's principal-fiber structure was also incorporated. Parametric analyses showed that the fiber orientation and the mechanical properties do not exert much influence on the locations of the CRes and the CRot and on the stress patterns within the bone and the PDL matrix. However, the absence of principal fibers produces not only different stress magnitudes, but also differences in stress patterns. Furthermore, the no-fiber-associated CRes and CRot are considerably separated from the cluster of fiber-influenced centers. It was concluded that it may be more realistic to incorporate “generic” principal fibers into finite element models than not to include them at all, despite the lack of reliable information about fibers. (Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop 2001;120:272-9)
Flow cytometric determination of zoospore DNA content and population DNA distribution in cultured Pfiesteria spp. (Pyrrhophyta)

Abstract The relative cellular DNA content from 23 different clonal cultures of Pfiesteria spp. zoospores was determined using a DNA fluorochrome and flow cytometry. Significant differences between Pfiesteria piscicida and P. shumwayae were detected, both in mean zoospore DNA content and population cell cycle DNA distribution. Intraspecific differences in DNA content were found between clonal zoospore cultures established from different geographical regions. Long-term cultures (years) of P. piscicida were available for testing, and a negative correlation was observed between zoospore DNA content and time in culture. Zoospore cell cycle-related DNA distributions were also markedly different between the two species in these clonal cultures. In most cultures tested, P. piscicida zoospores exhibited bimodal DNA flow histograms with G1-S-G2+M distributions, typical of eukaryotic asynchronously cycling cells. In contrast, cultures of P. shumwayae zoospores exhibited one DNA peak distribution, indicative of synchronized cells. The data are consistent with the hypothesis that P. shumwayae zoospores are interphasic cells, and mitosis in zoospore cultures of this species predominantly occurs as benthic or adherent non-motile division cysts. Light microscopy observations of the nuclear condition of electrostatically sorted zoospores of each Pfiesteria species also support this hypothesis. If highly conserved, this disparity in modes of vegetative reproduction would ramify the population dynamics of the two Pfiesteria species.
Microfluidic system for planar patch clamp electrode arrays

We present a microfluidic system integrated with disposable cell interface partitions for simultaneous patch clamp recordings. Glass-supported poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) partitions, having a 2 microm air-blown aperture, were reversibly sealed to a microfluidic system including PDMS channels with isolation valves and microfabricated Ag/AgCl electrodes. Gigaseal recordings from RBL-1 cells were obtained with a 24% success rate. Simultaneous whole cell recordings from valve-isolated electrodes were obtained.
Uptake of sugars by mucosa of rat colon

Uptake of 3-0-methylglucose, galactose and 1+ arabinose was studied in isolated segments of rat colon incubated in modified bicarbonate-saline solutions. Results are expressed as the fraction (T/M) of the tissue water penetrated by the sugar. The fraction of tissue water penetrated by galactose on the mucosal surface of the proximal colon was 0.36 ± 0.04 (SE), whereas, in the distal colon, it was 0.10 ± 0.02. In these two regions, that of 3-0-methylglucose was 0.28 ± 0.05 and 0.22 ± 0.02, respectively. When sugar-containing solutions bathed both surfaces of the mucosal cells, the fraction penetrated by 1+ arabinose, galactose and 3-0-methylglucose ranged from 0.67 to 0.76 in the distal colon. Sodium ion replacement or phlorizin in the medium was not found to inhibit penetration from mucosal fluid in the colon. Vasopressin, nystatin and dimethylsulfoxide all increase colonic permeability to galactose. In experiments reported here, there is no evidence of active transport of sugar in the colon. Galactose appears neither to support lactate production in the rat colon nor to give rise to measurable metabolic products in these studies.
Photovoltaic efficiencies in lattice-matched III-V multijunction solar cells with unconventional lattice parameters

We explore the potential for high efficiency multijunction solar cells that are not lattice matched to currently available single crystal substrates, but are still formed of component subcells that can be lattice matched to one another in the III-V GaInAsP compound semiconductor material system. Using detailed balance calculations, the theoretical efficiency of three and four junction cells with lattice constants in the range from 5.65325 to 5.8687 A are explored. In this range, a lattice-matched three junction cell with an In x Al 1−x As top subcell has a 56.2% detailed balance efficiency (500 suns). A lattice-matched four junction cell with 54.5% (500 suns) detailed balance efficiency is also identified.
The Efficacy of Oral Midazolam for Decreasing Anxiety in Children Undergoing Voiding Cystourethrogram: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo Controlled Study

Purpose: Voiding cystourethrogram is an invasive test that evokes anxiety. Our primary aim was to determine whether midazolam is beneficial in decreasing anxiety in children who undergo voiding cystourethrogram. Secondary aims were an examination of parent anxiety, health care professional perceptions and post-procedure behavioral outcomes in children after voiding cystourethrogram.Materials and Methods: A total of 44 children were randomized to placebo or oral midazolam before voiding cystourethrogram in double-blind fashion. The Modified Yale Preoperative Anxiety Scale was used to evaluate child behavior before and during voiding cystourethrogram, and the Post Hospitalization Behavior Questionnaire was used to investigate any short-term and intermediate-term behavioral outcomes. The State-Trait Anxiety Inventory was used to evaluate parent personal anxiety during voiding cystourethrogram. A separate questionnaire was administered to radiology staff. Statistical analysis included the 2-sample t and Fishe...
The soft-pion skyrmion lagrangian and strong CP-violation

Abstract The soft-pion skyrmion effective lagrangian is constructed so as to satisfy all soft-pion threshold threorems. As an application, the strong CP -violating soft-pion nucleon coupling constant is calculated, which is found to contribute 1.2 × 10 −16 θ e cm to D n , the electric dipole moment of the neutron.
A facile and efficient synthesis of d6-labeled PU-H71, a purine-scaffold Hsp90 inhibitor

PU-H71 is a purine-scaffold Hsp90 inhibitor currently undergoing late stage preclinical evaluation for the treatment of cancer. In this investigation, we present a simple method for the synthesis of d6-labeled PU-H71 for use as an internal standard to accurately quantitate the drug in biological matrices based on an LC-MS-MS method. PU-H71-d6 was synthesized in five steps using readily available 1,3-dibromopropane-d6 and is an important compound for the advancement of our clinical program. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Two elevators serving up-traffic

A model is described for the motion of two elevators serving traffic only from a single lobby floor to multiple higher floors. Over a certain range of passenger arrival rates, the average round trip time of an elevator can be approximated by a linear function of the number of passengers carried which, in turn, is proportional to the time since the last elevator departure from the lobby (the headway). A pair of deterministic equations for the means of two state variables describes the approximate evolution of the system behavior. These equations lead to a very strange chaotic type of motion in the two-dimensional state space. For moderately light traffic the two elevators tend to travel close together, but for heavy traffic the headways tend to be nearly uniformly distributed over the mean round trip time of a single elevator.
Post-Crisis: Embracing Public Service Architecture With Humility

In the wake of large-scale disasters, architects often step forward with new visions for recovery and rebuilding. The widespread destruction of buildings and human landscapes presents an attractive opportunity to work in an atmosphere of moral clarity: to design and build as an act of defiance against hostile forces. The demands of post-disaster environments give the work of architecture a sense of urgency, both morally and economically. However, such rebuilding efforts can also expose problematic undercurrents, and while widely acclaimed for their altruistic vision, opportunistic architects may, in some cases, do more harm than good.
An evaluation of the influence of natural science in regional-scale restoration projects

Regional-scale restoration is a tool of growing importance in environmental management, and the number, scope, and complexity of restoration programs is increasing. Although the importance of natural science to the success of such projects generally is recognized, the actual use of natural science in these programs rarely has been evaluated. We used techniques of program evaluation to examine the use of natural science in six American and three Western European regional-scale restoration programs. Our results suggest that ensuring the technical rigor and directed application of the science is important to program development and delivery. However, the influence of science may be constrained if strategies for its integration into the broader program are lacking. Consequently, the influence of natural science in restoration programs is greatest when formal mechanisms exist for incorporating science into programs, for example, via a framework for integration of science and policy. Our evaluation proposes a model that can be used to enhance the influence of natural science in regional-scale restoration programs in the United States and elsewhere.
Cell type mediated resistance of vesicular stomatitis virus and sendai virus to ribavirin.

Ribavirin (RBV) is a synthetic nucleoside analog with broad spectrum antiviral activity. Although RBV is approved for the treatment of hepatitis C virus, respiratory syncytial virus, and Lassa fever virus infections, its mechanism of action and therapeutic efficacy remains highly controversial. Recent reports show that the development of cell-based resistance after continuous RBV treatment via decreased RBV uptake can greatly limit its efficacy. Here, we examined whether certain cell types are naturally resistant to RBV even without prior drug exposure. Seven different cell lines from various host species were compared for RBV antiviral activity against two nonsegmented negative-strand RNA viruses, vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV, a rhabdovirus) and Sendai virus (SeV, a paramyxovirus). Our results show striking differences between cell types in their response to RBV, ranging from virtually no antiviral effect to very effective inhibition of viral replication. Despite differences in viral replication kinetics for VSV and SeV in the seven cell lines, the observed pattern of RBV resistance was very similar for both viruses, suggesting that cellular rather than viral determinants play a major role in this resistance. While none of the tested cell lines was defective in RBV uptake, dramatic variations were observed in the long-term accumulation of RBV in different cell types, and it correlated with the antiviral efficacy of RBV. While addition of guanosine neutralized RBV only in cells already highly resistant to RBV, actinomycin D almost completely reversed the RBV effect (but not uptake) in all cell lines. Together, our data suggest that RBV may inhibit the same virus via different mechanisms in different cell types depending on the intracellular RBV metabolism. Our results strongly point out the importance of using multiple cell lines of different origin when antiviral efficacy and potency are examined for new as well as established drugs in vitro.
Application of isothermal calorimetry and uv spectroscopy for stability monitoring of pentaerythritol tetranitrate

Abstract Thermal stabilities for three pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN) samples with variable surface areas were monitored by isothermal calorimetry and UV spectroscopy over the range 363–408 K. Isothermal induction times measured with constant volume calorimetry under an air atmosphere, and NO evolution rates monitored by UV absorbance at 213 nm under vacuum correlated with the PETN surface area at temperatures equal or exceeding 383 K. Rate data measured at 383 K are in accord with predictions based on detailed kinetic modeling. Below 383 K, NO evolution data suggested that additional geometric factors may be significant in controlling PETN stability. Mechanisms for the influence of surface area upon the rate-determining step are addressed.
A model for the loss of memory potential assuming a requirement for two interacting cell populations with different functional half-lives

Abstract The biphasic exponential loss of memory potential in adoptively immunized rats cannot be explained by assuming that secondary antibody formation under these conditions requires the interaction of two different cell populations of different functional half-lives.
Treatment of Temper Tantrums by a Paradoxical Intervention

In the present case, a paradoxical intervention was employed in the treatment of a 4-year-old boy for temper tantrums. Temper tantrums, which had been a daily occurrence, disappeared entirely after the second session. A follow-up at nine months indicated there had been no further tantrums.
An unusual mosaic karyotype detected through prenatal diagnosis with duplication of 1q and 19p and associated teratoma development.

A 40-year-old white woman underwent amniocentesis for advanced maternal age at 15.4 weeks gestation. Fetal chromosome analysis demonstrated two distinct cell lines: [46,XX,t(1;19)(p11;p11)]—10%; and [47,XX, t(1;19)(p11;p11) + der(1)t(1;19)(p11;q11)]—90%. The latter karyotype was trisomic for both 1q and 19p. The mother carried the balanced translocation; the father had a normal karyotype. Amniotic fluid α-fetoprotein level was elevated and an acetylcholinesterase band was detected. Level II ultrasonography at 17 and 24 weeks revealed several abnormalities, including a large facial cleft and a probable facial teratoma and intracranial tumor. Autopsy following pregnancy termination confirmed the presence of both. Chromosome evaluation of 172 metaphases of both the epignathus and the intracranial teratoma demonstrated a predominance of the cell line with 47 chromosomes (166/172 = 96.5%), while from nonteratoma tissue (lung, liver, skin, and brain) only the balanced karyotype was detected. These observations suggest that the chromosomal imbalance is instrumental in the etiology of the teratoma. © 1992 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Small-Time Asymptotics of Hermite Functions on Compact Symmetric Spaces☆☆☆

Abstract Let M be a compact, connected, oriented Riemannian manifold. Hermite functions on M are defined in terms of the heat kernel, and the existence of an asymptotic expansion of these functions in powers of t is established for small time. In the case where M is a compact symmetric space, the asymptotic expansion of Hermite functions associated to “symmetrized” derivatives is shown to be greatly reduced, leaving an expansion in powers of t only.
Conducting carbon wires in ordered, nanometer-sized channels

The encapsulation of graphite-type carbon wires in the regular, 3-nanometer-wide hexagonal channels of the mesoporous host MCM-41 is reported. Acrylonitrile monomers are introduced through vapor or solution transfer and polymerized in the channels with external radical initiators. Pyrolysis of the intrachannel polyacrylonitrile results in filaments whose microwave conductivity is about 10 times that of bulk carbonized polyacrylonitrile. The MCM host plays a key role in ordering the carbon structure, most likely through the parallel alignment of the precursor polymer chains in the channels. The fabrication of stable carbon filaments in ordered, nanometer-sized channels represents an important step toward the development of nanometer electronics.
A Rhetorical Analysis of Apologies for Scientific Misconduct: Do They Really Mean It?

Since published acknowledgements of scientific misconduct are a species of image restoration, common strategies for responding publicly to accusations can be expected: from sincere apologies to ritualistic apologies. This study is a rhetorical examination of these strategies as they are reflected in choices in language: it compares the published retractions and letters of apology with the letters that charge misconduct. The letters are examined for any shifts in language between the charge of misconduct and the response to the charge in order to assess whether the apology was sincere or ritualistic. The results indicate that although most authors’ published acknowledgments of scientific misconduct seem to minimize culpability by means of the strategic use of language, their resulting ritualistic apologies often still satisfy in some way the accusers’ (and thus their community’s) concerns.
CFD analysis for solar chimney power plants

Abstract Solar chimney power plants are investigated numerically using ANSYS Fluent and an in-house developed Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) code. Analytical scaling laws are verified by considering a large range of scales with tower heights between 1 m (sub-scale laboratory model) and 1000 m (largest envisioned plant). A model with approximately 6 m tower height is currently under construction at the University of Arizona. Detailed time-dependent high-resolution simulations of the flow in the collector and chimney of the model provide detailed insight into the fluid dynamics and heat transfer mechanisms. Both transversal and longitudinal convection rolls are identified in the collector, indicating the presence of a Rayleigh–Benard–Poiseuille instability. Local separation is observed near the chimney inflow. The flow inside the chimney is fully turbulent.
Defining the facial extent of the platysma muscle: a review of 71 consecutive face-lifts.

Objective To delineate the superior (facial) extent of the platysma muscle. Methods A total of 142 facial halves were examined from 71 consecutive deep-plane rhytidectomies performed over a period of 3 months. The platysma muscle was identified and isolated during the procedure. The superior extent of the platysma was measured along the line created by the angle of the mandible to the malar eminence, also known as the malar mandibular line. Results On average, the platysma extended 3.98 cm along the malar mandibular line, superiorly from the inferior border of the mandible. The platysma was located 3.09 cm inferiorly from the malar eminence along the malar mandibular line. On average, the platysma muscle occupied 56% of the malar mandibular line. Conclusion The platysma muscle may have a more significant facial extension than previously described.
A network based model of a promotion‐sensitive grocery logistics system

We use a network model to choose retail prices in a grocery logistics system consisting of a warehouse (managed by a manufacturer) that supplies stores (managed by a retailer). We model retail prices as endogenous decisions that respond to store-level cost and demand parameters. The retail prices are chosen to maximize the retailer's expected profits. The retail environment is captured by a three-segment retail customer model where segments differ in their reservation price, size, and propensity to stockpile. The resulting network model chooses retail prices each period to optimize profits across the horizon. Retail price variation across time is profit-maximizing because of the promotion sensitivity of the retail environment. We also model the impact of retail price variation on the manufacturer costs, warehouse inventory levels, and associated manufacturer expected profit. The suggested model is fit to a dataset consisting of retail prices and associated sales of canned soup. The model parameters as well as the residual variance are included in the decision model that generates the optimal retail prices that maximize the expected retail profit. We use model runs from the empirical dataset to show that (i) retail price variation can be profit-maximizing for the retailer, (ii) retail market-share constraints can decrease both manufacturer and retailer profits, and (iii) manufacturer price variation can be beneficial for the manufacturer and the retailer. The results show that manufacturer and retailer price variation can play a valuable role in improving logistics system performance in promotional retail environments. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Symbols, And Policymaking In Corrections

The development of corrections policy is often complex and confusing. The authors argue that myths and symbols affect the policy making process in corrections, contributing to preservation of the s...
Effect of lazabemide on the progression of disability in early Parkinson's disease

Lazabemide (Ro 19-6327) is a relatively short-acting, reversible, and selective type B monoamine oxidase inhibitor that is not metabolized to amphetamines or other active compounds. We previously found lazabemide to be safe and well tolerated at dosages of up to 400 mg/day during a 6-week study of 201 patients with early untereated Parkinson's disease (PD). We now assess whether or not lazabemide influences the progression of disability in untreated PD. Patients (N = 321) were assigned by randomization to one of five treatment groups (placebo, 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, or 200 mg/day) and followed systematically for up to 1 year. The risk of reaching the primary end point (the onset of disability sufficient to require levodopa therapy) was reduced by 51% for the patients who received lazabemide compared with placebo-treated subjects. This effect was consistent among all dosages. The frequency of adverse experiences did not placebo-treated subjects. This effect was consistent among all dosages. The frequency of adverse experiences did not differ among the treatment groups. At dosages ranging from 25 to 200 mg/day, lazabemide was well tolerated and delayed the need for levodopa in early, otherwise untreated PD. The magnitude and pattern of benefits were similar to those observed after 1 year of deprenyl (selegiline) treatment in the DATATOP clinical trial.
Quasi-Newton algorithms: Approaches and motivations

This paper surveys some of the unifying approaches used to derive formulae for updating the inverse Hessian approximations in quasi-Newton algorithms and presents a new approach of this kind based on geometric considerations. The paper discusses the intuitive motivations for these approaches and their potential in providing explanations for observed behavior of such algorithms.
Risk Factors for Occult Mediastinal Metastases in Clinical Stage I Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Background In patients deemed to have clinical stage I for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) after computerized tomography (CT) and positron emission tomography (PET) scans, the utility of mediastinoscopy to detect occult mediastinal metastases is unclear. The goal of this study was to analyze the risk factors for occult mediastinal metastases in this subset of patients. Methods We conducted a retrospective review during a 7-year period to identify patients with potentially operable clinical stage I NSCLC screened by CT and PET scans. Medical records were reviewed, and the prevalence of pathologic N2 disease was analyzed according to clinical tumor location, size, histology, and PET uptake of the primary tumor. Results Of 224 patients identified with clinical stage I NSCLC with a CT-negative and PET-negative mediastinum, 16 patients had pathologic N2 disease proven by mediastinoscopy (n = 11) or after resection (n = 5). The overall prevalence of histologically confirmed N2 disease was 6.5% in clinical T1 patients and 8.7% in clinical T2 patients. Central tumors had a higher prevalence of N2 disease compared with peripheral tumors, 21.6% versus 2.9% ( p p max ) of the primary tumors was analyzed, patients with occult N2 metastases had a higher median SUV max of the primary tumor compared with patients without N2 metastases, 6.0 g/mL versus 3.6 g/mL ( p = 0.017). Conclusions For patients deemed at clinical stage I NSCLC by CT and PET, the prevalence of missed N2 metastases increased significantly with larger tumor size and central location. Adenocarcinoma cell type and a high PET SUV max of the primary tumor were other risk factors. Mediastinoscopy may have improved yield in the select subset of patients with one or more risk factor.
Five Equivalent d Orbitals: A Continuum of Sets

A continuum of sets of five equivalent d orbitals is derived and discussed. A discussion of five equivalent sd orbitals is also presented.
Ions in fuel-rich and sooting acetylene and benzene flames

Mass spectrometric measurements of flame ion concentration profiles have been made in low pressure rich and sooting acetylene/oxygen and benzene/oxygen flames. As both flames are made richer and approach sooting the predominant ion C3H3+ is replaced by large positive aromatic ions with mass greater than 300. The profile of these ions corresponds with a previously identified class of “soot precursor” species. Similarities and differences between the ion spectra in the two flames are discussed along with possible reasons for dual maxima in individual ion concentration vs distance profiles observed in sooting flames. The data are consistent with an ionic mechanism of soot nucleation.
Aspergillus flavus-induced chitosanase in germinating corn and peanut seeds: A. flavus mechanism for growth dominance over associated fungi and concomitant aflatoxin production.

Chitosanase, a new class of enzymes with antifungal properties was induced by toxigenic Aspergillus flavus in both germinating corn and peanut seeds. The enzyme was partially purified and fractioned by SDS‐Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis activity and copolymerized with chitosan or glycolchitosan as substrate, then quantified by scanning densitometry and a 2‐dimensional analysis software program. Chitosanase enzyme was markedly induced by toxigenic A. flavus growing in germinating corn and peanut seeds, as compared to control (water) which showed the lowest activity (almost nil in corn). However, chitosanase induction was higher in seeds treated with chitosan from Crustacea. Overall, enzyme activity was higher in peanut than in corn seeds. However, electrophoresed gels from peanut treated with A. flavus or water showed more polypeptides (three and one, respectively) than gels from corn seeds, which only showed one polypeptide for both A. flavus and water treatment. The enzyme molecular weight was estima...
Assessment of genetic diversity and relationship among a collection of US sweet sorghum germplasm by SSR markers

Sweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) is a type of cultivated sorghums and has been recognized widely as potential alternative source of bio-fuel because of its high fermentable sugar content in the stalk. A substantial variation of sugar content and related traits is known to exist in US sweet sorghum. The objectives of the study were to assess the genetic diversity and relationship among the US sweet sorghum cultivars and lines using SSR markers and to examine the genetic variability within sweet sorghum accessions for sugar content. Sixty-eight sweet sorghum and four grain sorghum cultivars and lines were genotyped with 41 SSR markers that generated 132 alleles with an average of 3.22 alleles per locus. Polymorphism information content (PIC) value, a measure of gene diversity, was 0.40 with a range of 0.03-0.87. The genetic similarity co- efficient was estimated based on the segregation of the 132 SSR alleles. Clustering analysis based on the genetic similarity (GS) grouped the 72 sorghum accessions into 10 distinct clusters. Grouping based on clustering analysis was in good agreement with available pedigree and genetic background informa- tion. The study has revealed the genetic relationship of cultivars with unknown parentage to those with known parentage. A number of diverse pairs of sweet sorghum accessions were identified which were polymorphic at many SSR loci and significantly different for sugar content as well. Information generated from this study can be used to select parents for hybrid development to maximize the sugar content and total biomass, and development of segregating populations to map genes controlling sugar content in sweet sorghum.
Selective interference between imagery and perception: Is it modality specific or relation specific?

When subjects perform a perceptual task while maintaining an image, there is more interference when the task and image are in the same modality than when they are in different ones (e.g., Segal & Fusella, 1970). This has been interpreted as demonstrating that the image is a perceptual representation. An alternative interpretation is that both image and task are represented propositionally with the relations expressed in the propositions being more similar when the image and task involve the same modality. To evaluate the new interpretation, subjects formed images that varied in modality—visual vs. auditory—and in the relation describing the imaged information—spatial vs. temporal. While maintaining an image, subjects performed either a spatial or a temporal visual task. Performance was poorer when the task and image were in the same modality, but was relatively unaffected by whether the task and image relations were the same or not.
Impending cardiac tamponade as a primary presentation of hypothyroidism: case report and review of literature.

Objective: To describe a patient who presented with pericardial effusion and impending cardiac tamponade attributable to hypothyroidism. Methods: We present clinical, laboratory, and imaging data f...
Death and survival: viral regulation of TNF signaling pathways.

The TNF superfamily of ligands and receptors is critical for mounting innate and adaptive immune responses against foreign pathogens by regulating cell death and survival. Several viruses have recently been shown to induce the expression of death receptor ligands in infected cells, which may serve as an effective strategy for the elimination of cytotoxic T lymphocytes and natural killer cells. In turn, viruses have evolved a variety of strategies to inhibit the effects of death receptor signaling in the infected cells themselves, aiding the progression of replication and dissemination. By contrast, the host has also developed non-lethal antiviral mechanisms initiated by TNF receptor signaling that avoid the potentially costly side-effects of cell death. At the current time, virtually all facets of TNF receptor signaling, from ligand binding to activation of the apoptotic machinery, have been shown to be targeted by viruses.
Where Is Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase More Critical: Plasma Membrane or Golgi?

Vascular endothelium–derived nitric oxide (NO), originally identified as endothelium-derived relaxing factor,1–3 plays a pivotal role in regulation of vascular homeostasis.4 NO is a major regulator of vascular tone and blood pressure, and has multiple antiatherogenic roles including antiinflammatory, antithrombotic, antiproliferative, and antioxidant effects.4–6 Loss of the bioavailability of endothelium-derived NO is the hallmark of endothelial dysfunction and is implicated in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease such as hypertension and atherosclerosis.7,8 Therefore, it is of great interest to understand the molecular mechanisms regulating NO production by endothelium, which is likely to provide new insight into endothelial function in health and disease. See page 1015 Endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) is a highly regulated, calcium (Ca2+)/calmodulin (CaM)-dependent enzyme responsible for the physiological production of NO in the vasculature.9,10 In endothelial cells (ECs), NO is formed from its precursor L-arginine via the enzymatic activation of eNOS with cofactors such as tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4). eNOS activation and subsequent NO production is stimulated by a variety of physical stimuli such as fluid shear stress generated by blood flow and by many humoral factors including acetylcholine, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), bradykinin, estrogen, insulin, and angiopoietin.10–12 Increasing evidence suggest that eNOS is regulated by subcellular localization,9,13,14 posttranslational modifications such as phosphorylation at serine 1179 (S1179) by Akt,15–17 and interactions with several regulatory proteins such as heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) and caveolin-1.18,19 In particular, subcellular localization of eNOS is critical for optimal coupling of extracellular stimulation to NO production.10 In ECs, eNOS appears to localize at peripheral aspects of the Golgi complex and cholesterol-rich microdomains of the plasma membrane (PM) such as caveolae. Cotranslational N-myristoylation and posttranslational cysteine palmitoylation of eNOS determine its membrane targeting.9,13 It has been proposed that eNOS membrane localization may bring eNOS …
The effects of elevation and depletion of intracellular free calcium on progesterone and prostaglandin production by the primate corpus luteum.

The role of the phosphatidylinositol second messenger system in luteal regulation has not been extensively studied, particularly in the primate. The objectivesof thisstudy were (1) to further characterize the response of the primate CL to the calcium ionophore A23187, in terms of intracellularfreecalcium concentrations (lCa2l1) and progesterone (P) production; and (2) to assess the effectsof depleting,aswell as elevating,availablecalcium on lutealP and prostaglandin (PG) production. The response to A23187, in terms of [Ca’l, was measured by fura-2 fluorescence microscopy of single small and large lutcal cells. A23187 significantly increased lCa’4l in both cell types (p < 0.01). P production (basaland hCG-stimulated) by dispersed primate luteal cells incubated for various tunes (1-8 h) with and without A23187 was measured. Treatment with A23187 rapidly (within 12 h) attenuated (� < 0.05) the time-dependent increase in basal and hCG-stimulated P production. Luteal P and PG production following treatment with the calcium ionophore, lonomycin, alone or in combination with additional CaCl,,was alsomonitored. Treatment with ionomycin (p < 0.01) and CaCI2 (� < 0.01) inhibitedlutealP production. Incontrast,treatmentwith ionomycin stimulated (p < 0.01) lutealPG production. To determine the effects of Ca’� depletion on luteal function, P and PG production by cellsincubated for 2 and 8 h in the absence and presence of the Ca’�-chelatorEGTA was measured. Luteal production of both P and PG was inhibitedby 8-h treatment with EGTA. In conclusion, elevations in lCa’�l differentially regulate PG and P production in the primate CL, leading to elevated PG and suppressed P production in CL collected in the mid-luteal phase. Since thispattern of luteal PG and P production is also evident latein the lutealphase, the phosphatidylinositolpathway may be involved in regressionof the primate CL In contrast to the selectivealterationsin lutealfunctionfollowing increases in lCa21i, depletion of available calcium leads to suppression of both PG and P production. Thus, an optimal level of tCa2�] may be necessary for maximal luteal function.
Intelligent systems in accounting, finance and management: ISI journal and proceeding citations, and research issues from most-cited papers

This paper analyses the citations from Intelligent Systems in Accounting, Finance and Management that have occurred in ISI's Web of Knowledge in February 2010. I found roughly 1000 citations to the journal under 10 different journal name abbreviations, with roughly 25p of the citations occurring during 2008–2009, associated with 27 of the more frequently cited papers. Using that citation data, the H-index and the 40 (42 with ties) most-cited papers are presented. I found that ISI's new proceedings data appear to have a different citation pattern than ISI's journal citation data, resulting in citations to more sources, but fewer citations per source. I also examine the research methodologies and applications of the most-cited papers in an attempt to determine what areas have been cited most and where there are potential gaps in the research. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rule graph: Incorporate expert and statistical knowledge for rule execution

We present an efficient graph based rule execution method which incorporate expert knowledge and statistical knowledge. How to use both the knowledge from expert experiences and the statistical information from business instances to improve the efficiency of rule execution is meaningful. We define a directed acyclic graph to control rule execution where each potential sequential rule execution corresponds one path in the graph. Expert knowledge is defined as the constraints on the executions of rules, and it can be used to prune the rule graph to reduce the potential paths. Statistical knowledge comes from the execution of a large number of business instances, and it can be used to assign different weights for paths and then adjust the structure of rule graph. Experiments indicate our approach can achieve a very efficient performance for rule executions which outperforms the existing approaches.
Representation of deformable object structure and motion for autonomous manipulation using relative elasticity

Even though most natural and many man made objects move in a nonrigid manner, the majority of the research in computer vision has focused on recovering motion and structure of rigid objects due to the underconstrained and complex nature of deformable transformations. A novel image based model for the representation of nonrigid structure and motion based on relative elasticity is discussed which provides both sectional and global motion information and requires no knowledge of physical parameters, allowing it to overcome many of the limitations of existing deformable models. The usefulness of this new representation is demonstrated for autonomous manipulation of nonrigid objects.
Estimating rates and patterns of morphological evolution from phylogenies: lessons in limb lability from Australian Lerista lizards

Squamates (lizards and snakes) offer an exciting model system for research on the evolution of body form. A new phylogenetic study in BMC Evolutionary Biology of Australian lizards shows remarkable evolutionary lability in digit numbers among closely related species, but also highlights important challenges in this area.
Assessment on carbon capture technology: A literature review

The dominance of coal resources in many countries and the advantage of coal to generate power in terms of cost and abundance of energy supply make coal a critical source of energy. As a result, considering the climate change challenges and the carbon dioxide emission problems from coal-fired power plants, make the development of carbon capture and storage technology crucial to reconcile the conflict between carbon dioxide emission mitigation and the need for sufficient energy supply to satisfy the demand. The research objective of this study is to overview the assessment methods of carbon capture technologies and to propose a holistic evaluation model for them.
A DYNAMIC THEORY OF PRIMARY EXPORT TAXATION: EVIDENCE FROM SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA

Why do governments tax primary exports at rates that are ultimately self-defeating? The answer lies in the time inconsistent nature of a low tax policy. A government strapped for revenue always has an incentive to announce low taxes today in order to get farmers to plant. Once the harvesting season arrives however, the government can revert to a high tax policy by cheating farmers out of sunk costs. Alternatively, by sticking to a low tax policy, the government ensures continued planting and the associated future export earnings. In this paper, I show that whether a low tax policy is sustainable depends on three variables: the ratio of sunk costs to total costs; how heavily future revenue is discounted; and expected future export earnings. I use data on taxation, leadership duration and profitability to test this theory for 32 countries and six crops from Sub-Saharan Africa. Results indicate that cocoa, coffee and vanilla, the three crops with the highest ratio of sunk costs to total costs, tend to be taxed more heavily than cotton, groundnuts and tobacco, the three crops with the lowest ratio of sunk costs to total costs. Using the probability of remaining in power as a proxy for the discount factor, I also show that the likelihood of being in a low-tax regime is increasing in the discount factor. And finally, crops for which expected future profits are greatest tend to be less heavily taxed.
The myth of the madding crowd

Crowd behavior is one of the most colorful but least understood forms of human social behavior. This volume is a major contribution to the field of collective behavior, with implications for social movement analysis. McPhail's critical assessment of the major theories of crowd behavior establishes that, whatever their particular limitations and strengths, all share a general and serious flaw: their explanations were developed without prior examination of the behaviors to be explained. Drawing on a wide range of empirical studies that include his own careful field work, the author offers a new characterization of temporary gatherings. He presents a life cycle of gatherings and a taxonomy of forms of collective behavior within gatherings, as well as combinations of these forms and gatherings into larger events, campaigns and waves. McPhail also develops a new explanation for various ways in which purposive actors construct collective actions.
Characteristics and perceptions of the Medicare population: 2001-2005.

The Medicare Current Beneficiary Sur­ vey (MCBS) is a continuous panel survey of a nationally­representative sample of Medicare enrollees. The survey collects a variety of information on these Medicare beneficiaries with a focus on the social, economic, and demographic characteristics of the Medicare population, beneficiaries’ health status, and their health care services, cost, and sources of payment. The data collected in the MCBS has been a valuable statistical tool for many researchers and aides those in writing articles and publications. One such publi­ cation that has used data from the MCBS is The Characteristics and Perceptions of the Medicare Population. This annual pub­ lication serves as a source book based on the Access to Care Data File from the MCBS and focuses on the socioeconomic and demographic characteristics of the Medicare population, their health status, their health insurance coverage, and their access to and satisfaction with Medicare services.