cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Aneurysmal (angiomatoid) fibrous histiocytoma

We report a patient with aneurysmal (angiomatoid) fibrous histiocytoma manifested clinically as a single firm subcutaneous nodule, diagnosed as an epithelial cyst. Histologically, the growth showed massive histiocytic proliferation and areas with a vascular component. The lesion was histologically mistaken for Kaposi's sarcoma.
The German minority in inter‐war Yugoslavia

(1993). The German minority in inter‐war Yugoslavia. Nationalities Papers: Vol. 21, No. 2, pp. 129-143.
Self similar particle distribution in particulate ceramic matrix composites I: Theoretical background and computer implementation☆

Abstract This work presents a self-similar distribution of particles in a particulate reinforced ceramic composite. A set of fractal microstructures is generated by the Iterated Functions Systems. Nearest neighbors distribution and radius distribution are performed for each microstructure. The self-similar models are compared with the model obtain by the Yang Teriari Gokhale method that produce non-uniform microstructure. The proposal shows that the fractal dimension can be related to the average radius of circular particle in special cases.
Sampling Characteristics of Kelley's ε and Hays' ω:

Statistics used to estimate the population correlation ratio were reviewed and evaluated. The sampling distributions of Kelley's e2 and Hays' ω2 were studied empirically by computer simulation within the context of a three level one-way fixed effects analysis of variance design. These statistics were found to have rather large standard errors when small samples were used. As with other correlation indices, large samples are recommended for accuracy of estimation. Both e2 and ω2 were found to be negligibly biased. Heterogeneity of variances had negligible effects on the estimates under conditions of proportional representativeness of sample sizes with respect to their population counterparts, but combinations of heterogeneity of variance and unrepresentative sample sizes yielded especially poor estimates.
Diversity and abundance of leafhopper species (Homoptera: Cicadellidae) among red maple clones

A survey was conducted in the 2001 growing season to examine the leafhopper diversity and abundance among trees of 17 red maple (Acer rubrum) clones. Yellow sticky traps were used to qualify and quantify the number of aerial leafhoppers from 1 May 2001 until 4 September 2001. A total of 45 species from eight different leafhopper subfamilies, for a total of 6055 individuals, were considered in this study. The mean number of leafhoppers collected, mean species richness, diversity and evenness were significantly lower on traps of trees for ‘October Glory’ than for the other clones. Yet, none of the leafhopper species dominated the weekly samples. Species similarity among clones ranged from 56 to 90%. No two clones had complete similarity. ‘Franksred’ and trees of a controlled cross between ‘October Glory’ × ‘Autumn Flame’ shared the highest degree of species similarity, while clones from PA, USA and RI, USA were the least similar. The development of new clones did not create new pest problems, but suppressed populations of damaging pests, and maintained the diversity of low abundance species.
Processing Errors in Conditional and Biconditional Problem Solving Behavior.

Abstract Students ( N = 237) in each of grades 8, 10, 12, and 14 were randomly divided into three groups and administered either a 16-item multiple-choice test of conditional syllogisms, or a 16-item test of biconditional syllogisms, or a 32-item test with both conditional and biconditional syllogisms. Results provided within experiment and within-subjects comparison of responses on conditional and biconditional syllogisms. A comparison of response patterns on conditional items with responses on actual biconditional items provided a direct test of the previously hypothesized biconditional misinterpretation of conditional problems. These analyses confirmed the strong tendency of subjects (across grades) to interpret conditional syllogisms biconditionally. Surprisingly, performance on biconditional problems does not improve systematically with age; in fact, college sophomores perform only slightly better than eighth graders. With regard to conditional syllogisms, results confirmed previously described performance variations across forms of both major and second premises and also replicated an unusual reversed developmental trend on the problem which involves denying the consequent.
The Theory of Cascade Showers in Heavy Elements

The one-dimensional equations of the cascade theory of showers are solved, account being taken of the variation with energy of the cross section for pair production, as well, of course, as ionization and bremsstrahlung effects. This modification is necessary for the discussion of cosmic-ray showers and bursts in elements of high atomic number since, for such elements, there is a region of energy (10 Mev-200 Mev for Pb) in which the pair production process is important while the cross section usually assumed for the process is greatly in error. Introducing the usual units $t$ of length and $\ensuremath{\beta}$ of energy, both characteristic of the material traversed $(t,\ensuremath{\beta}=240 \mathrm{m}, 95 \mathrm{Mev}\mathrm{and} 0.4 \mathrm{cm}, 6.5 \mathrm{Mev}$ for air and lead, respectively), one finds that the maximum number of particles arising in lead from an incident particle of energy ${E}_{0}=\ensuremath{\beta}{e}^{\ensuremath{\epsilon}}$ varies between $\frac{{E}_{0}}{11\ensuremath{\beta}}$ and $\frac{{E}_{0}}{10\ensuremath{\beta}}$ as ${E}_{0}$ varies between ${10}^{9}$ ev and ${10}^{11}$ ev. For a given $\ensuremath{\epsilon}$, the maximum number of particles occurs at a distance (in units of $t$) slightly less for lead than for air, and for large distances the effect of the variation with energy of the pair production cross section is to increase the number of particles and $\ensuremath{\gamma}$- rays to be expected.
Clinical performance of the Multispot HIV-1/HIV-2 rapid test to correctly differentiate HIV-2 from HIV-1 infection in screening algorithms using third and fourth generation assays and to identify cross reactivity with the HIV-1 Western Blot

Background An accurate and rapid serologic method to differentiate HIV-2 from HIV-1 infection is required since the confirmatory HIV-1 Western Blot (WB) may demonstrate cross-reactivity with HIV-2 antibodies.
The iodination of aromatic substrates on alumina

Abstract The iodination of a wide variety of aromatic substrates has been attained on dehydrated alumina. The procedure is particularly well suited for arenes.
Structure–activity relationship of Aza-steroids as PI-PLC inhibitors

A number of aza-steroids were synthesized as potent phosphatidylinositol phospholipase C (PI-PLC) inhibitors. The epimeric mixtures 22,25-diazacholesterol (8a) and 3beta-hydroxy-22,25-diazacholestane (8b) were among the most active of these inhibitors, with IC(50) values of 7.4 and 7.5 microM, respectively. The 20alpha epimer, 8a2 (IC(50)=0.64 microM), whose stereochemistry at C-20 coincides with that of cholesterol, was found 50 times more potent than the 20beta epimer, 8a1 (IC(50)=32.2 microM). In diaza-estrone derivatives, the 3-methoxy group on the aromatic A-ring of 23 exhibited moderate PI-PLC inhibitory activity (IC(50)=19.7 microM), while compound with a free hydroxyl group (21) was inactive. However, in diaza-pregnane derivatives, epimers with a 3-hydroxyl group (8a, IC(50)=7.4 microM) exhibited more potent PI-PLC inhibitory activity than their counterparts with 3-methoxyl group on the non-aromatic A-ring (26, IC(50)=17.4 microM). We have illustrated in our previous publication that 3-hydroxyl-6-aza steroids are potent PI-PLC inhibitors.(3) However, simultaneous presence of the 6-aza and 22,25-diaza moieties in one molecule as in 13, led to loss of activity. Epimeric mixture 8a showed selective growth inhibition effects in the NCI in vitro tumor cell screen with a mean GI(50) value (MG-MID) of 5.75 microM for 54 tumors.
Platform Based Design...of Innovation

I first met Alberto in his office at the University of California (UC), Berkeley, in the summer of 2001, when I was deciding about applying for graduate school. Of course I couldn't know at that point how much that meeting would have changed not only my career but my entire life.
Evaluating the Role of Rubisco Regulation in Photosynthesis of C $_3$ Plants

The enzyme ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase (Rubisco) catalyses the entry of carbon dioxide into photosynthetic metabolism, provides acceptor molecules that consume the products of the light reactions of photosynthesis, and regulates the pool sizes of important photosynthetic intermediates. Studies of the regulation of Rubisco in vivo have required the development and adaptation of biochemical techniques to physiological questions. For example, the analogue of the six-carbon intermediate 2-carboxyarabinitol bisphosphate is now used in several ways to assess regulation of Rubisco. The advances in understanding Rubisco regulation allow a re-evaluation of the concepts of regulation and limitation of photosynthesis. The Blackman view of limiting factors in photosynthesis is supported by measurements and can be explained by the regulation of Rubisco. This regulation of Rubisco can result in the efficient use of resources. The Blackman view remains a useful framework for discovering patterns in the complex regulation of Rubisco
Innovation in State Judicial Administration: Effects on Court Management and Organization

The 50 states gradually are adopting centralized judicial management and court reorganization. Viewing change in judicial administration as part of the adoption of policy innovations, the research ...
Low diagnostic yield of sural nerve biopsy in patients with peripheral neuropathy and primary amyloidosis

Patients with primary amyloidosis may develop peripheral neuropathy as an early feature. Sural nerve biopsy is reported to be a sensitive method for diagnosing amyloidosis in such patients. We identified nine patients, ultimately diagnosed as having amyloidosis, who were referred for peripheral neuropathy of undetermined etiology. In six, a sural nerve biopsy demonstrated no amyloid. Subsequent examination of other tissue or of the contralateral sural nerve eventually resulted in the correct diagnosis. We conclude that sural nerve biopsy may be less sensitive than previously believed for the diagnosis of amyloidosis in patients with peripheral neuropathy secondary to amyloid. When the clinical suspicion of amyloidosis is high, a nondiagnostic sural nerve biopsy should not discourage the performance of further investigative studies.
Homoleptic Group 12 metal complexes of macrocyclic thioethers: the crystal structures of bis(1,4,7-trithiacyclodecane)M(II) perchlorate: M(II)=zinc(II), cadmium(II), mercury(II)

Abstract We wish to report the crystal structures for a series of homoleptic complexes involving the three Group 12 family members with the crown thioether 1,4,7-trithiacyclodecane (10S3). The ligand coordinates in tridentate fashion and readily forms bis complexes with the d10 metal ions, Zn(II), Cd(II), and Hg(II). The three compounds have the general formula [M(10S3)2](ClO4)2 and are isostructural. The three crystal structures show the two 10S3 ligands arranged in a trans or anti fashion around the metal center in a distorted octahedral fashion to yield the meso stereoisomer. All three complexes show hexakis(thioether) octahedral coordination which is unusual for these Group 12 metal ions. The mean M–S bond distances increase as one moves down the family although there is only a modest increase between the Cd and Hg complexes (Zn: 2.4965(10) A, Cd: 2.6523(6) A, Hg: 2.6870(16) A). In sharp contrast to crown thioether complexes of other metal ions, the majority of the M–S bond lengths in these 10S3 complexes are shorter than those found in their 9S3 analogs. A simple four line 13C{1H} NMR spectrum is obtained for the three complexes. Variable temperature 13C{1H} NMR experiments performed on the Hg(II) complex suggest a rapid intermolecular exchange of the 10S3 ligands is occurring. The Cd complex shows a singlet in its 113Cd{1H} NMR spectrum with a chemical shift at 612 ppm, in agreement with a hexakis(thioether) coordination environment.
Mycorrhizae alter protein and lipid contents and yield of pea seeds

Root colonization by arbuscular-mycorrhizal (AM) fungi may affect seed protein and lipid composition by altering P nutrition or by eliciting metabolic responses by the host plant. These fungi may therefore play a role in plant breeding programs. This study was conducted to determine the effects of an AM fungus and different levels of P availability on seed protein and lipid composition and yield. Pea (L.) plants were grown in a greenhouse under different P regimes (0, 1, 2, or 4 g hydroxyapatite kg soil) with or without the AM fungus (Nicol − Gerd.) Gerd. and Trappe. At the lowest level of P availability, protein concentration was significantly lower and lipid concentration and seed dry mass were higher in AM than in non-AM plants. Protein/lipid concentration ratios were invariant in non-AM plants at all soil P levels. Those of the AM plants varied, were highest at an intermediate P level, and coincided with the highest intensity of root colonization and the greatest reduction of seed yield relative to the non-AM plants at the same level of P availability. Lipid and protein contents were highly correlated (second order) with P content in all plants. In non-AM plants, however, lipid and protein contents were very low at the lowest soil P level, but statistically not different at the other soil P levels. The data show different patterns of seed P accumulation and different relationships between seed P content and protein and lipid composition in AM and non-AM plants. This suggests that both the presence and the intensity of AM-fungal colonization altered the response of seed lipid metabolism to increasing P availability, which affected the protein and lipid ratios.
Anisotropic light scattering by flowing flexible macromolecules

The dityndallism (anisotropic light scattering upon orientation or deformation of molecules or particles) to be expected from flexible macromolecules deformed in laminar flow is calculated for all angles of observation of practical interest. The model used is based on the assumption that the deformed molecule can be approximated by a statistical spheroid. The hydrodynamic part of the theory is based upon a treatment already published, while the optical part of the theory is based upon Rayleigh's treatment of spheroids, considering in addition its unpublished recent extension by Stevenson. Numerical evaluation of the equations arrived at lead to the expectation that dityndallism can give quantitative information on the shape of flexible macromolecules whose degree of swelling is known, or on the degree or swelling of macromolecules whose statistical shape is known.
Optimal detector geometry to maximize light output and timing characteristics of fast scintillators

A Monte Carlo computer program has been developed to test different detector geometries in an effort to determine the shape that maximizes a figure of merit based on increasing the temporal resolution while retaining high sensitivity. Detector crystals shaped as truncated cones were examined with specular scattering from the crystal-air interface. On the basis of the results, two truncated cones with 20-mm base radius, 10-mm top radius, and 20-mm height were purchased and compared to existing 20-mm*20-mm*40-mm crystals and to the results in the literature. The temporal resolution obtained with the cone system is 222 ps FWHM with an intrinsic efficiency of 24%. The experimental results confirm the accuracy and usefulness of the computer model. >
A study of labeled pluronic F-68 after intravenous injection into the dog

Abstract 3 H-Labeled Pluronic F-68 was given intravenously to dogs. The 3 H-labeled Pluronic F-68 was measured in whole blood, plasma, plasma protein-free filtrate, washed and unwashed red blood cells, urine, and lymph during the 24-hr administration and in various organs at the end of 24 hr. Approximately 75% of the detergent is transported in the plasma as free Pluronic F-68, and 25% appears to be attached to albumin. At the end of 24 hr, approximately 40% of the initial dose was excreted in the urine, and 3 H-labeled Pluronic was found in all organs.
High-intensity gamma -ray scattering from alkali halide crystals.

We have measured the fractional change F of the resonant photon fraction due to Bragg scattered from the (200), (400), and (600) planes of NaCl and NaF, as well as the (200) and (400) planes of LiF. Unlike previous measurements of this type, we have used well-collimated beams made possible by a high-intensity \ensuremath{\gamma}-ray source (\ensuremath{\approxeq}100 Ci). The values of F reflect loss in elastic intensity and are of importance since the crystals studied here are widely used as monochromating filters. We find a remarkably large fraction of the scattered radiation remains recoilless (g94%), even for the (600) reflection of NaCl, and a value of F=100.0(3%) for the (200) plane of LiF shows that this crystal is an excellent \ensuremath{\gamma}-ray monochromator and calibration for experiments with small F values. The F values can be expressed in terms of elastic and inelastic components, and as such provide information about the Debye-Waller factors of crystals.
CHLOROPLAST DNA POLYMORPHISM SUGGESTS NIGERIAN CENTER OF DOMESTICATION FOR THE COWPEA, VIGNA UNGUICULATA (LEGUMINOSAE)

Twenty-one independent chloroplast DNA polymorphisms were identified in Vigna unguiculata defining 19 different chloroplast DNA molecules (plastome types). Two plastome types, differing by a single character, were found among 32 accessions of cultivated cowpea ( Vigna unguiculata ssp. unguiculata). Eighteen different plastome types were found among 26 accessions of wild cowpea (V. unguiculata ssp. dekindtiana). The very low level of chloroplast DNA diversity found in cultivated accessions relative to wild cowpea suggests that 1) the domesticated form was derived from a narrow selection of the wild germplasm and 2) chloroplast gene flow between wild and cultivated types has been very limited. Cladistic analysis of the cpDNA data generated a robust tree completely lacking homoplasy. Three wild accessions from Nigeria possessed a plastome type indistinguishable from one present in cultivated accessions, suggesting that Nigeria represents one center of domestication of the cowpea. The other plastome type within the cultivated germplasm was not found among wild accessions. The cowpea (Vigna unguiculata [L.] Walp.) is an important leguminous crop of tropical Africa, Asia, and South America. The latest taxonomic treatment of V. unguiculata (Mithen and Kibblewhite, in press) separates it into two subspecies. Within V. unguiculata ssp. unguiculata were placed the three cultivated-groups (cv-gr.), including the cowpea (cv-gr. unguiculata), the catjang (cvgr. biflora), and the yard long or asparagus bean (cv-gr.
A micro method to measure para-amino hippurate and creatinine in plasma and urine

The Bratton—Marshall method [I] or its slight modification [2, 3] is extensively used for photometric analysis of para-amino hippurate (PAH) in biological fluids. It is more commonly employed in renal clearance techniques to measure effective renal plasma flow and tubular secretory rate [TmPAH] [2, 3]. There are many disadvantages to this method [1—4], including: 1) stepwise multiple reagent additions; 2) the intervals between mixing must be carefully timed; and, 3) the nitrite and sulfamate reagents are unstable. This procedure is complicated and time consuming when numerous analyses are to be performed, as in renal clearances. In this report, a rapid and reproducible micro method for the simultaneous determination of PAH and creatmine in plasma is described, which employs a micropartition system to remove proteins prior to high performance reverse phase chromatographic analysis. This procedure takes into account the plasma binding of PAH in each sample under all experimental conditions. This technique has also been applied to urine samples. High performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) analysis was performed using a Beckman (Berkeley, California, USA) 5 .t Ultrasphere octadecyl silane (ODS) column (0.46 x 25 cm). The pumping system was a Milton Roy mini-pump Model 396 (Riviera Beach, Florida, USA) operating at I ml/min, and the samples were applied with a Rheodyne 7125 injection valve (Cotati, California, USA) with a 20 .d sample loop. PAH and creatinine were separated with a mobile phase consisting of a 98:2 (by volume) mixture of 0.05 M ammonium acetate (pH 6.0) and acetonitrile. Absorbance at 236 nm was monitored in the eluent with a Waters Model 481 (Milford, Massachusetts, [JSA) variable wavelength detector set at 0.05 aufs. Plasma (50 iii) was placed in a reservoir of an Amicon (Danvers, Massachusetts) micropartition filtration unit and centrifuged for 10 mm at 3,500 rpm (1,740 xg) (Sorvall, Dupont Instruments, Newton, Connecticut, USA). Aliquots of the filtrate were subjected to HPLC analysis. A blank plasma sample (without PAH) was assayed to correct for interference. PAH and creatinine peak height were measured and its concentration determined with reference to a calibration curve. Routinely, urine was diluted 1:50 in column buffer, vortex—
International Negotiations: An Entirely Different Animal

ABSTRACT As the global economy becomes more entrenched and the importance of internationalization becomes self evident to American businesses, the number of contacts with foreign agents will escalate. Whether it be buying or selling, the end result often is cross-cultural negotiations. This paper examines international negotiations, how and why it is different from domestic negotiations. and provides some guidelines for increasing one's likelihood of success when conducting international (cross-cultural negotiations).
Social identity and schooling inequality

The focus of this paper is to evaluate similarities and differences between and within socio-economic samples of school attendance. Eight variables broadly classified by income, education, family background, and class size, are employed for this purpose. For each of the eight variables, the null hypothesis is that the means by various classifications (income, mother’s schooling, father’s schooling, math score, language score, 4th grade class size, number of 4th grade classes, 4th grade enrollment) are equal against an alternative hypothesis that at least one of the member group differs. The method employed for this purpose is one-way analysis of variance. In each of the classifications, samples were divided to reflect public schools, voucher private schools and unsubsidized private schools as well as the full sample. Furthermore, the full samples are employed to find whether differences between the three groups exist for the eight variables. The full sample is n = 3,776 schools. The results point to statistical significant differences for all of the variables.
SELECTION IN A MODEL SYSTEM: ECOLOGICAL GENETICS OF FLOWERING TIME IN ARABIDOPSIS THALIANA

Arabidopsis thaliana and some of its close allies have been a model system for genetics, developmental biology, and molecular biology for some time. More recently, they have been adopted by an increasing number of laboratories involved in evolutionary ecological research. In this paper, I illustrate some of the methods and advantages concerning the use of Arabidopsis to study selection and the constraints imposed on it by the genetic architecture underlying morphological and life history traits. Populations of A. thaliana and closely related species show a wider ecological variance than had been suspected, and it is increasingly clear that even such a relatively simple organism presents endless challenges to ecologists and evolutionary biologists. The study of the evolution of life history traits in this group also provides us with an invaluable opportunity to advance our search for ways to integrate biological knowledge at the organismal and molecular levels. At the same time, these efforts also yield a better understanding of the type of research that can be carried out independently at these two levels of the biological hierarchy.
An expert performance approach to the study of individual differences in self-regulated learning activities in upper-level college students

Abstract One of the hallmarks of adolescent and adult development of expert performance is its self regulation. This paper reviews different approaches to assessing the use of self-regulated learning (SRL) strategies in high-school and college students and their ability to predict academic performance. The current study assesses the use of SRL strategies with interviews and diaries and their relation to grade point average (GPA) in sixty upper-level college students majoring in science. Their diaries revealed that students with high, average, and low GPAs (assessed before the start of the semester) differed in overall use of SRL strategies and in the use of particular strategies during specific weeks. Methods of assessing and understanding differences in adult self-regulation and subsequent academic performance are evaluated and discussed.
ACP Journal Club. Review: first-line low-dose thiazides and ACE inhibitors reduce mortality and morbidity in adults with hypertension.

Source Citation Wright JM, Musini VM. First-line drugs for hypertension. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2009;(3):CD001841. 19588327
Measurement of Conductive Hearing Loss in Mice

Abstract In order to discriminate conductive hearing loss from sensorineural impairment, quantitative measurements were used to evaluate the effect of artificial conductive pathology on distortion-product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs), auditory brainstem responses (ABRs) and laser-Doppler vibrometry (LDV) in mice. The conductive manipulations were created by perforating the pars flaccida of the tympanic membrane, filling or partially filling the middle-ear cavity with saline, fixing the ossicular chain, and interrupting the incudo-stapedial joint. In the saline-filled and ossicular-fixation groups, averaged DPOAE thresholds increased relative to the control state by 20–36 and 25–39 dB, respectively with the largest threshold shifts occurring at frequencies less than 20 kHz, while averaged ABR thresholds increased 12–19 and 12–25 dB, respectively without the predominant low-frequency effect. Both DPOAE and ABR thresholds were elevated by less than 10 dB in the half-filled saline condition; no significant change was observed after pars flaccida perforation. Conductive pathology generally produced a change in DPOAE threshold in dB that was 1.5–2.5 times larger than the ABR threshold change at frequencies less than 30 kHz; the changes in the two thresholds were nearly equal at the highest frequencies. While mild conductive pathology (ABR threshold shifts of 10 dB) were associated with significant deceases in DPOAE growth rate. Our LDV measurements are consistent with others and suggest that measurements of umbo velocity are not an accurate indicator of conductive hearing loss produced by ossicular lesions in mice.
Algorithms for the estimation of phase stability in heterogeneous thermodynamic systems

Abstract Two critical aspects of the computation of equilibrium phase relations in highly nonideal thermodynamic systems are discussed: 1. (1) identification of the saturation conditions and likely compositions of a suite of phases relative to a pervasive fluid phase, and 2. (2) detection of phase separation within a homogeneous phase and estimation of compositions in the resulting equilibrium multiphase assemblage. New algorithms are described which address both of these problems in multicomponent thermodynamic systems and numerical results are presented for two and three component cases. An appendix illustrates a method of deriving analytical expressions for derivatives of the Gibbs free energies of phases characterized by internal “ordering” parameters.
Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP), a Disorder of Ectopic Osteogenesis, Misregulates Cell Surface Expression and Trafficking of BMPRIA

FOP is a disorder in which skeletal muscle is progressively replaced with bone. FOP lymphocytes, a model system for exploring the BMP pathway in these patients, exhibit a defect in BMPRIA internalization and increased activation of downstream signaling, suggesting that altered BMP receptor trafficking underlies ectopic bone formation in this disease. Introduction: Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) is a severely disabling disorder characterized by progressive heterotopic ossification of connective tissues. Whereas the genetic defect and pathophysiology of this condition remain enigmatic, BMP4 mRNA and protein are overexpressed, and mRNAs for a subset of secreted BMP antagonists are not synthesized at appropriate levels in cultured lymphocytes from FOP patients. These data suggest involvement of altered BMP signaling in the disease. In this study, we investigate whether the abnormality is associated with defective BMP receptor function in lymphocytes. Materials and Methods: Cell surface proteins were quantified by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). Protein phosphorylation was assayed by immunoprecipitation and immunoblotting. Protein synthesis and degradation were examined by [35S]methionine labeling and pulse-chase assays. mRNA was detected by RT-PCR. Results: FOP lymphocytes expressed 6-fold higher levels of BMP receptor type IA (BMPRIA) on the cell surface compared with control cells and displayed a marked reduction in ligand-stimulated internalization and degradation of BMPRIA. Moreover, in control cells, BMP4 treatment increased BMPRIA phosphorylation, whereas BMPRIA showed ligand-insensitive constitutive phosphorylation in FOP cells. Our data additionally support that the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway is a major BMP signaling pathway in these cell lines and that expression of inhibitor of DNA binding and differentiation 1 (ID-1), a transcriptional target of BMP signaling, is enhanced in FOP cells. Conclusions: These data extend our previous observations of misregulated BMP4 signaling in FOP lymphocytes and show that cell surface overabundance and constitutive phosphorylation of BMPRIA are associated with a defect in receptor internalization. Altered BMP receptor trafficking may play a significant role in FOP pathogenesis.
Adolescent development and energy expenditure in females with cystic fibrosis.

Summary Background & Aims Poor nutrition and growth status are common in people with cystic fibrosis (CF), and females often have a worse clinical course. Relationships between sexual maturity, nutrition, resting energy expenditure (REE), and pulmonary status in females with CF and pancreatic insufficiency (PI) were evaluated. Methods Pre- and post-menarcheal females with CF and PI (8–29 yr) were compared to healthy females. Z -scores for growth and body composition, anthropometry and DEXA were assessed. REE was measured in all subjects and pulmonary function in CF. Results Compared to healthy females ( n = 28 , 14.6±4.1 yr), females with CF ( n = 16 , 14.7±4.4 yr) had lower height Z (−0.1±0.9 versus −0.9±0.9, P = 0.009 ) and muscle area Z (0.8±1.3 versus –0.4±1.2, P = 0.007 ), and higher REE (100±10 versus 110±11% predicted, P = 0.008 ). Difference in REE was more pronounced for post-menarcheal girls. REE adjusted for fat and fat-free mass was significantly higher with CF (+110 calories/day), and declined with menarcheal age in all subjects. FEV 1 was positively associated with BMI Z score, and negatively associated with age at menarche. Conclusions Height and muscle stores were reduced and REE elevated in subjects with CF compared to healthy controls. Poorer growth and nutritional status and delayed menarche were associated with poorer pulmonary function in CF and were likely related to the cumulative effect of energy imbalance on growth and body composition.
A tri-axial touch sensor with direct silicon to PC-board packaging

Abstract Touch sensors are receiving increasing attention nowadays in both research and products. In this work, we present a novel tri-axial touch sensor that measures contact force in three mutually perpendicular directions simultaneously. As a discrete touch sensing device, this sensor will be useful for capturing the three dimensional profile of the total contact force, such as the force of fingertip–object interaction during a robotic manipulation task. The primary distinctive feature of this sensor is the direct silicon to PCB (Printed Circuit Board) assembly scheme, effectively decomposing the incoming force vector into three independent components while eliminating the needs for complex micro fabrication and chip packaging. The design, fabrication process and testing results of this sensor are presented. Static loading tests for both single axial devices and tri-axial sensors in both normal and shear directions are presented. Data regarding sensitivities and cross-sensitivities are obtained. A linear compensation scheme is proposed using calibration matrix to correct the output data for linear errors caused by cross-talk. As a preliminary application, the sensor is also characterized as a force-proportional pointing device. Real time data are recorded during fingertip–sensor interaction through circular biaxial motions and are compared with bench mark data obtained from vision tracking method in both time and frequency domains.
“Research Use Only” Reagents: Is There an Imperative for Increased FDA Oversight?

On June 1, 2011, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)2 Office of In Vitro Diagnostic Device Evaluation and Safety issued draft guidance for industry and FDA staff intended to provide guidance regarding the FDA's thinking about in vitro diagnostic device (IVD) products labeled for “Research Use Only” (RUO) or “Investigational Use Only” (IUO) (1). Reagents may be marketed under either of these labels without FDA premarket review and are partially or totally exempt from compliance with the Quality Systems Regulation (21 CFR 820). Therefore, an IVD manufacturer might it very tempting to avoid the trouble and expense of a 510(k) or premarket-approval submission by labeling a product as RUO or IUO, despite knowing full well that the product is likely being used as an IVD under conditions in which there is no research protocol and no oversight by an institutional review board. There is no doubt that the FDA's intent is to improve patient safety. Compliance with the Quality Systems Regulation provides assurance that an IVD meets manufacturing specifications and that lot-to-lot variations are minimized and well understood. FDA clearance provides further assurance that the performance characteristics of laboratory tests are sufficiently well understood as to enable their intelligent use. Furthermore, the use by clinical laboratories of FDA-cleared IVD products likely reduces interlaboratory variation in testing and increases the ease with which results can be “ported” from one healthcare facility to another, potentially reducing healthcare costs that arise from duplicate testing. Nevertheless, the laboratory community is right to be concerned about the guidance document statement that manufacturers should not sell RUO or IUO reagents “to laboratories that they know use the product for clinical diagnostics use.” This statement could have unintended consequences that adversely affect patient care. In particular, the molecular diagnostics community has expressed concern that such …
Hyperglycemia, Hyperinsulinemia, Insulin Resistance, and the Risk of BPH/LUTS Severity and Progression Over Time in Community Dwelling Black Men: The Flint Men's Health Study

Objective To examine the associations between fasting serum glucose, insulin concentrations, and insulin resistance and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in a population-based cohort of African American men. Methods Using the Flint Men's Health Study (FMHS), we examined how fasting serum glucose and insulin concentrations and calculated Homeostasis Model of Assessment – Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) related to burden and progression of clinical markers of BPH in African American men aged 40-79 years. Results Among 369 men at baseline, mean age was 56.6 years and approximately 70% were overweight/obese (body mass index [BMI] ≥25 kg/m2). One hundred forty-eight men (34.4%) reported moderate to severe lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) (American Urological Association Symptom Index [AUASI] ≥8). There were no significant trends of metabolic disturbances as measured by serum glucose, insulin, or HOMA-IR in men with indications of BPH compared to those without. Conclusion In this population-based study of African American men aged 40-79 years, we did not observe any significant associations between hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, and insulin resistance and burden and progression of BPH after adjustment for age and BMI. This may be due, in part, to the single measurement of glucose and insulin, which may not adequately reflect average glucose metabolism. Further studies examining measures of long-term glycemic control and BPH in racially diverse populations are warranted.
Functional Properties of CaV1.3 (α1D) L-type Ca2+ Channel Splice Variants Expressed by Rat Brain and Neuroendocrine GH3 Cells

Abstract Ca2+ enters pituitary and pancreatic neuroendocrine cells through dihydropyridine-sensitive channels triggering hormone release. Inhibitory metabotropic receptors reduce Ca2+ entry through activation of pertussis toxin-sensitive G proteins leading to activation of K+channels and voltage-sensitive inhibition of L-type channel activity. Despite the cloning and functional expression of several Ca2+ channels, those involved in regulating hormone release remain unknown. Using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction we identified mRNAs encoding three α1(α1A, α1C, and α1D), four β, and one α2-δ subunit in rat pituitary GH3 cells; α1B and α1Stranscripts were absent. GH3 cells express multiple alternatively spliced α1D mRNAs. Many of the α1D transcript variants encode “short” α1D (α1D-S) subunits, which have a QXXER amino acid sequence at their C termini, a motif found in all other α1 subunits that couple to opioid receptors. The other splice variants identified terminate with a longer C terminus that lacks the QXXER motif (α1D-L). We cloned and expressed the predominant α1D-S transcript variants in rat brain and GH3 cells and their αlD-L counterpart in GH3 cells. Unlike α1A channels, α1D channels exhibited current-voltage relationships similar to those of native GH3 cell Ca2+channels, but lacked voltage-dependent G protein coupling. Our data demonstrate that alternatively spliced α1Dtranscripts form functional Ca2+ channels that exhibit voltage-dependent, G protein-independent facilitation. Furthermore, the QXXER motif, located on the C terminus of α1D-S subunit, is not sufficient to confer sensitivity to inhibitory G proteins.
A Computational Study of Nicotine Conformations in the Gas Phase and in Water

The conformational preferences of nicotine in three protonation states and in the gas phase as well as aqueous solution are investigated using several computational procedures. Conformational aspects emphasized are N-methyl stereochemistry, relative rotation of the pyridine and pyrrolidine rings, and pyrrolidine ring conformation. All methods consistently predicted that the N-methyl trans species are most stable for all protonation states in both gas phase and in water. However, the cis/trans energy gap is significantly reduced in water. Additionally, the two pyridine ring rotamers, which are energetically equivalent in the gas phase, experience different solvation energies in water.
Unavoidable Minors of Large 4-Connected Bicircular Matroids

It is known that any 3-connected matroid that is large enough is certain to contain a minor of a given size belonging to one of a few special classes of matroids. This paper proves a similar unavoidable minor result for large 4-connected bicircular matroids. The main result follows from establishing the list of unavoidable minors of large 4-biconnected graphs, which are the graphs representing the 4-connected bicircular matroids. This paper also gives similar results for internally 4-connected and vertically 4-connected bicircular matroids.
Mill and Mental Phenomena: Critical Contributions to a Science of Cognition

Attempts to define cognition preceded John Stuart Mill’s life and continue to this day. John Stuart Mill envisioned a science of mental phenomena informed by associationism, empirical introspection, and neurophysiology, and he advanced specific ideas that still influence modern conceptions of cognition. The present article briefly reviews Mill’s personal history and the times in which he lived, and it traces the evolution of ideas that have run through him to contemporary cognitive concepts. The article also highlights contemporary problems in defining cognition and supports specific criteria regarding what constitutes cognition.
Clinical impact of self-expandable stent diameter after femoropopliteal stenting

The optimal diameter of a self-expandable stent for femoropopliteal (FP) artery disease remains unclear. The aim of this study is to investigate the influence of stent diameter on the clinical outcome after FP stenting and to identify optimal stent diameter of self-expandable stent implantation. This study was a prospective observational study. Eighty patients who underwent successful self-expandable stent implantation for FP disease were enrolled in this study. A commercially available self-expandable stent was used. The operator determined the type, diameter and length of the stent based on a visual estimate in angiography. A peak systolic velocity ratio >2.0 was defined as restenosis. Primary patency was defined as treated vessel without restenosis and repeat revascularization. Secondary patency was defined as target vessel which subsequently become totally occluded and is reopened by repeat revascularization. As a result, restenosis was found in 34 patients (42.5%) during the follow-up of 24 months. In-stent restenosis was independently predicted by stent fracture [hazard ratio (HR) 2.6, p = 0.01], chronic total occlusion (HR 2.4, p = 0.02) and stent diameter ×10/vessel diameter (S/V) ratio (HR 1.7, p = 0.04). Using receiver-operator characteristic analysis, S/V ratio >1.30 best separated patients with and without in-stent restenosis. Primary and secondary patency was significantly lower in patients with S/V ratio >1.30 (85 vs. 44%, p = 0.002 and 90 vs. 65%, p = 0.009, respectively). In conclusion, an S/V ratio was an independent predictor of in-stent restenosis after FP stenting, and it was also associated with the clinical outcome.
Microwave CVD of Diamond Using Methanol-Rare Gas Mixtures

The deposition of diamond from a reactive vapor phase has been dominated by the use of very dilute gas mixtures of hydrocarbon molecules, usually methane, in hydrogen. Recently there have been reports using nitrogen and oxygen containing simple organics such as amines and alcohols which seem promising. The role of atoms other than hydrogen is still not very clear. There is need for more experimental data to further our understanding in this regard. Here we give a preliminary report on our investigation of deposition from methanol-rare gas mixtures using a small microwave reactor. An important result is that good diamond can be deposited from methanol without addition of hydrogen gas and the quality of the crystallites can be influenced by Ar in the plasma.
The Impact of Supervised Mentorship on Music Education Master's Degree Students.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of supervised mentorship in an authentic-context learning setting on music education graduate students' graduate school experiences. Participants were six current and former graduate music education majors who acted as supervised mentors to undergraduate students teaching instrumental music in an elementary school. We collected data via formal interviews and used classroom observations for triangulation. Each participant completed three interviews during the course of the academic year. We observed the participants teaching and mentoring multiple times and gave them feedback on their work with undergraduate teachers. We identified five emergent themes: pedagogical knowledge, psychological development, social development, educational experiences and identity development. Graduate students participating in supervised mentorship experienced positive growth in each of the five themes. Based on our findings, we developed a conceptual model that represe...
Lymphosarcoma. A comparison of extended to conservative chemotherapy

Sixty-three patients with Stage III and IV lymphocytic lymphoma were randomized for induction treatment between a single course of nitrogen mustard and a 14-day course of prednisone (conservative therapy) or sequential rotation of BCNU, nitrogen mustard and cytoxan with intermittent vincristine and prednisone for 6 months (extended therapy). Maintenance therapy by an oral alkylating agent (cytoxan or chlorambucil) with or without prednisone was given. Complete remission occurred in 75% of the conservative and 77% of the extended therapy group. The median duration of remission was similar, and greater than 27 months in both groups, and there was no difference in survival. At 1 year 80% of patients with no prior chemotherapy were in remission vs. 47% of patients with prior chemotherapy (p less than .01). No significant advantage for extended chemotherapy was found. The addition of vincristine was not helpful in induction and prednisone during maintenance did not improve the duration of remission or survival.
Development of a poly (ether urethane) system for the controlled release of two novel anti-biofilm agents based on gallium or zinc and its efficacy to prevent bacterial biofilm formation

Traditional antibiotic therapy to control medical device-based infections typically fails to clear biofilm infections and may even promote the evolution of antibiotic resistant species. We report here the development of two novel antibiofilm agents; gallium (Ga) or zinc (Zn) complexed with protoporphyrin IX (PP) or mesoprotoporphyrin IX (MP) that are both highly effective in negating suspended bacterial growth and biofilm formation. These chelated gallium or zinc complexes act as iron siderophore analogs, supplanting the natural iron uptake of most bacteria. Poly (ether urethane) (PEU; Biospan®) polymer films were fabricated for the controlled sustained release of the Ga- or Zn-complexes, using an incorporated pore-forming agent, poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG). An optimum formulation containing 8% PEG (MW=1450) in the PEU polymer effectively sustained drug release for at least 3months. All drug-loaded PEU films exhibited in vitro ≥ 90% reduction of Gram-positive (Staphylococcus epidermidis) and Gram-negative (Pseudomonas aeruginosa) bacteria in both suspended and biofilm culture versus the negative control PEU films releasing nothing. Cytotoxicity and endotoxin evaluation demonstrated no adverse responses to the Ga- or Zn-complex releasing PEU films. Finally, in vivo studies further substantiate the anti-biofilm efficacy of the PEU films releasing Ga- or Zn- complexes.
Stimulated Emission in Microring Cavity with Gold Core

We have demonstrated stimulated emission in microring cavity formed by dye-doped polymer deposited on a gold wire. The mode structure suggests that the stimulated emission originates from surface plasmon polaritons propagating at the gold-polymer interface.