cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Genetic and structural characterization of an amino acid dimorphism in glycoprotein Ib alpha involved in platelet transfusion refractoriness.

The platelet-specific alloantigen, Siba, located within the alpha- subunit of the glycoprotein (GP) Ib-IX membrane receptor, has been found to be involved in the pathogenesis of platelet transfusion refractoriness. We have identified the existence of a naturally occurring threonine/methionine dimorphism at position 145 of the GPIb alpha sequence, and determined that the Siba antigen corresponds to the molecule containing methionine145. The diallelic codons can be detected by restriction enzyme analysis of amplified genomic DNA fragments from the GPIb alpha gene. Evaluation of 61 healthy blood donors showed that the allele frequencies are 89% and 11% for the threonine145 and methionine145 codons, respectively. A positive correlation exists between platelet reactivity with the anti-Siba antibody and the presence of a methionine145-encoding allele. Moreover, recombinant expression of two soluble GPIb alpha fragments differing only at residue 145, provided definitive evidence that the human anti-Siba antibody reacts only with the molecule containing methionine145. These results explain the structural basis of the Siba human alloantigen system and define screening methodologies useful in transfusion medicine to match donor and recipient platelets accordingly.
A novel method for key exchange and authentication with cellular network applications

As PCS evolves secure communication and authentication will become increasingly important. The authors propose a cryptographic scheme that allows to ensure the ongoing authenticity and security of connections in a wireless network. This is achieved by combining a zero-knowledge authentication scheme and a public key exchange protocol in a novel way. Due to the combination, both protocols gain additional security against attacks that would otherwise be successful. The scheme is applied to EIA/TIA-IS-41, the proposed standard for networking between mobile carriers.
An Allelic Series of Mutations in the Kit ligand Gene of Mice. I. Identification of Point Mutations in Seven Ethylnitrosourea-Induced KitlSteel Alleles

An allelic series of mutations is an extremely valuable genetic resource for understanding gene function. Here we describe eight mutant alleles at the Steel (Sl) locus of mice that were induced with N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU). The product of the Sl locus is Kit ligand (or Kitl; also known as mast cell growth factor, stem cell factor, and Steel factor), which is a member of the helical cytokine superfamily and is the ligand for the Kit receptor tyrosine kinase. Seven of the eight ENU-induced Kitl(Sl) alleles, of which five cause missense mutations, one causes a nonsense mutation and exon skipping, and one affects a splice site, were found to contain point mutations in Kitl. Interestingly, each of the five missense mutations affects residues that are within, or very near, conserved alpha-helical domains of Kitl. These ENU-induced mutants should provide important information on structural requirements for function of Kitl and other helical cytokines.
Microscale detection of polychlorinated biphenyls using two-step laser mass spectrometry

Microprobe two-step laser desorption/laser ionization mass spectrometry (L 2 MS) is used as a new analytical technique for the detection of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Three standard Aroclor solutions (Aroclor 1232, 1242, and 1262) and three samples of activated carbon spiked with Aroclor 1242 are examined. All the PCBs present in the Aroclor solutions are clearly identified using L 2 MS. The distribution of the peaks follows the relative natural abundances of the carbon and chlorine isotopes. L 2 MS analyses of the spiked particles of activated carbon reveal the presence of PCBs and an abundance of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The detection limit for PCBs on solid surfaces is determined to be between 1 and 10 ppm. Because the spatial resolution of the L 2 MS instrument varies between 10 and 40 microns, PCB information at the sub-particle scale can be obtained. (Int J Mass Spectrom 212 (2001) 41‐ 48) © 2001 Elsevier Science B.V.
New FET active slotline ring antenna

A new active slotline ring antenna using an FET is presented. A simple transmission line method was used to predict the resonance frequency of the FET active slotline ring antenna with good agreement. The active antenna radiated 21.6 mW with 18% efficiency at 7.7 GHz.
The Control and Containment Forces on the Swash Plate of an Axial-Piston Pump

In this research, the control and containment forces and moments acting on the swash plate of an axial-piston pump are examined. From a practical standpoint, swash plate control and containment devices take on many different designs; however, they must all resist the same essential moments and forces that attempt to dislocate the swash plate from its proper position. By considering the basic machine design without its control and containment mechanisms, this work generally derives the needed forces and moments for insuring proper swash-plate motion and thereby gives the designer of these machines a useful tool for designing control and containment devices of any type. The success of the actual control and containment devices will be measured by how well they exert the proper forces and moments on the swash plate which are presented here.
Response to selection for sensitivity to ethanol hypothermia : genetic analyses

Selective breeding has been used to produce lines of mice differing in sensitivity to the hypothermic effects of ethanol (EtOH). Two genetically independent HOT (insensitive) and two COLD (sensitive) lines are maintained along with two nonselected control (CON) lines. The breeding program is currently in selected generation 14, and HOT and COLD mice differ by about 4°C in selected hypothermic response. Estimates of heritability indicate that approximately 20% of the variance in EtOH-induced hypothermic response in mice is of additive genetic origin. Inbreeding has increased at a rate of about 1.7% per generation and no fertility problems have been detected as a result of selection. Projects designed to evaluate apparent correlated responses to selection are discussed.
Cleavable epoxy resins: Design for disassembly of a thermoset

A series of cycloaliphatic diepoxides with cleavable acetal links were synthesized and characterized. These materials were shown to undergo thermosetting reactions with cyclic anhydride in very similar fashion to a commercial cycloaliphatic epoxide, but cured samples were easily dissolved in a variety of acid-containing solvent mixtures. Such materials can extend the utility of thermosetting epoxies by preserving their positive attributes while eliminating their well known intractability after curing. The latter property is particularly a problem for manufacturers designing products for disassembly at end of use in order to facilitate recycling. © 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The “D Circle”: Closed-circuit operation of the bain circuit

A method of converting a Mapleson D (Bain) circuit to closed-circuit operation is presented, utilizing a laboratory air pump and a Waters carbon dioxide absorber canister to recirculate exhaled gas. The elimination of carbon dioxide from the circuit was studied and found to be adequate. The circuit would allow the use of low fresh gas flows for the maintenance of anaesthesia without the danger of carbon dioxide rebreathing. We suggest that such a circuit could provide appropriate conditions of gas humidity and temperature for endotracheal anaesthesia. while realizing the advantage of a circulator in mask anaesthesia is possible. Furtherdesign considerations for a “D circle” breathing system for clinical use are discussed.
The dynamics of hedging the master schedule

SUMMARY An important issue in the management of material requirements planning (MRP) systems is the location of safety stocks. In a previous paper Miller describes a hedging strategy that distributes safety stock throughout the product structure. This paper investigates the dynamic behaviour of such a system in the presence of uncertain demand. Compared to holding a planned buffer only at the finished goods level, this strategy reduces inventory investment at the cost of slightly lower service. Additionally, when planned replenishment rates for safety stock are decreased, the average level of inventory is also decreased with minor loss of service.
A hypergraph partitioning based approach for scheduling of tasks with batch-shared I/O

This paper proposes a novel, hypergraph partitioning based strategy to schedule multiple data analysis tasks with batch-shared I/O behavior. This strategy formulates the sharing of files among tasks as a hypergraph to minimize the I/O overheads due to transferring of the same set of files multiple times and employs a dynamic scheme for file transfers to reduce contention on the storage system. We experimentally evaluate the proposed approach using application emulators from two application domains; analysis of remotely-sensed data and biomedical imaging.
Evolutionary history of a mosquito endosymbiont revealed through mitochondrial hitchhiking

Due to cytoplasmic inheritance, spread of maternally inherited Wolbachia symbionts can result in reduction of mitochondrial variation in populations. We examined sequence diversity of the mitochond...
Alliance Politics during the Cold War: Aberration, New World Order, or Continuation of History?

Scholars have often wondered whether the nature of alliance politics fundamentally changed during the bipolar nuclear era characterized by the Cold War. The extension of the Alliance Treaty Obligat...
Rock and Roll: The Establishment Fights Back and Loses

Various Artists, 2012, 2 CDs, Jasmine 168 Songs are aesthetic commodities. Crafted by composers and gaining public attention through performance in live settings or on commercial recordings, songs ...
Aldosterone-Secreting Adrenal Cortical Carcinoma. A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Adrenal cortical carcinomas (ACC) are rare, typically aggressive malignant neoplasms with a reported incidence of 1–2 cases per 1 million population and account for 0.05–0.2 % of all malignancies. The majority of these tumors are functional with approximately 60 % of patients experiencing endocrine symptomatology typically characterized by Cushing’s syndrome (40 %) or a mixed hormonal picture of Cushing syndrome seen in association with virilization. Rarely, patients present with a pure hormonal syndrome of feminization or hyperaldosteronism, 6 and 2.5 %, respectively. We report a case of a 76-year-old woman presenting with recently diagnosed hypertension secondary to primary hyperaldosteronism. The patient underwent laparoscopic converted to an open adrenalectomy and a diagnosis of adrenocortical carcinoma (aldosteronoma clinical) was rendered. This case and review of the literature highlight that while rare, aldosterone-secreting adrenal cortical carcinomas may occur. In this case report, we discuss the clinical presentation, pathologic findings, and review the literature for adrenal cortical carcinomas and aldosterone-secreting adrenal cortical carcinomas.
Electron paramagnetic resonance of triplet excitons in anthracene-tetracyanobenzene crystals☆

Abstract The temperature dependence of the EPR spectrum of triplet excitons in single crystals of the charge-transfer complex between anthracene and 1,2,4,5-tetracyanobenzene is reported. There is a phase transition at T c ≈ 202 K. Above T f the EPR spectrum shows the existence of a single magnetic species, while below T c there are two magnetically inequivalent sites related by symmetry. The EPR lines are narrow lorentizens in both phases and are attributed to triplet excitons. Analysis of the linewidths indicates two types of exciton motion. The faster motion is within one of the two sublattices of magnetically equivalent species ( v 11 ≳ 6.4 × 10 8 s −1 ) and shows no indication of change with temperature. The slower motion is between magnetically inequivalent sites and depends on temprature ( v 2 = 1.1 × 10 8 s −1 200 K) with an activation energy ≈ 700 cm −1 . It is suggested that, although the triple excitation is almost entirely localized on the anthracene Joners, the motion may proceed effectively along the linear stacks. These results are discussed with particular reference to earlier work.
Rapid Sensitization of Physiological, Neuronal, and Locomotor Effects of Nicotine: Critical Role of Peripheral Drug Actions

Repeated exposure to nicotine and other psychostimulant drugs produces persistent increases in their psychomotor and physiological effects (sensitization), a phenomenon related to the drugs' reinforcing properties and abuse potential. Here we examined the role of peripheral actions of nicotine in nicotine-induced sensitization of centrally mediated physiological parameters (brain, muscle, and skin temperatures), cortical and VTA EEG, neck EMG activity, and locomotion in freely moving rats. Repeated injections of intravenous nicotine (30 μg/kg) induced sensitization of the drug's effects on all these measures. In contrast, repeated injections of the peripherally acting analog of nicotine, nicotine pyrrolidine methiodide (nicotinePM, 30 μg/kg, i.v.) resulted in habituation (tolerance) of the same physiological, neuronal, and behavioral measures. However, after repeated nicotine exposure, acute nicotinePM injections induced nicotine-like physiological responses: powerful cortical and VTA EEG desynchronization, EMG activation, a large brain temperature increase, but weaker hyperlocomotion. Additionally, both the acute locomotor response to nicotine and nicotine-induced locomotor sensitization were attenuated by blockade of peripheral nicotinic receptors by hexamethonium (3 mg/kg, i.v.). These data suggest that the peripheral actions of nicotine, which precede its direct central actions, serve as a conditioned interoceptive cue capable of eliciting nicotine-like physiological and neural responses after repeated nicotine exposure. Thus, by providing a neural signal to the CNS that is repeatedly paired with the direct central effects of nicotine, the drug's peripheral actions play a critical role in the development of nicotine-induced physiological, neural, and behavioral sensitization.
A Case-Control Study of Hypertensive Women in a Post-Disaster Community: Wyoming Valley, Pennsylvania

Among 396 female flood victims participating in a five-year post-disaster survey, 31 cases were identified who developed hypertension during that time period. A case-control study of hypertension was carried out utilizing age and ponderal index as matching criteria. The purpose of the study was to assess risk factors for hypertension associated with the early recovery period. Pairwise matching yielded 29 case-control pairs for analysis. Such factors as property loss, financial difficulties, physical work, use of alcohol, and perceived distress--all associated with the recovery period--were significantly associated with hypertension. Two mental health dimensions--somatization and anxiety--and the respondent's perceived effect of the flood on health assessed at the time of the survey also demonstrated significant positive correlations with hypertension.
Genetic polymorphism of CON 1 and CON 2 salivary proteins detected by immunologic and concanavalin A reactions on nitrocellulose with linkage of CON 1 and CON 2 genes to the SPC (salivary protein gene complex).

Two new genetic protein polymorphisms (CON 1 and CON 2) were identified in parotid saliva. Genetic polymorphisms of salivary CON 1 (concanavalin A) and CON 2 proteins are determined by autosomal inheritance of one expressed (dominant) and one unexpressed (recessive) allele for each gene. Autosomal inheritance is supported by studies in 26 families including 105 children for CON 1 and 23 families including 95 children for CON 2. Gene frequencies determined for randomly collected salivas from 134 whites, 79 Chinese, and 74 blacks are as follows: for whites, CON 1+= 0.396 and CON 1− = 0.604, CON 2+ = 0.034 and CON 2−= 0.966; for Chinese, CON 1+ = 0.580 and CON 1− = 0.420, CON 2+ = 0 and CON 2− = 1; for blacks, CON 1+ = 0.581 and CON 1− = 0.419, CON 2+ = 0.007 and CON 2− = 0.993. Both CON 1 and CON 2 proteins, transferred from SDS gels to nitrocellulose, react with concanavalin A. The CON 1 and CON 2 proteins react with antisera prepared to proline-rich proteins (PRP), and the CON 1 and CON 2 proteins have isoelectric points greater than pH 8.5. In randomly collected salivas, the CON 1 protein shows a strong association with Ps proteins, and the CON 2 protein shows a strong association with the PmF protein. On the basis of association data, PmS and CON 2 genes may be outside markers in a linear arrangement of the three genes, PmS, PmF, and CON 2. There is strong evidence for linkage of CON 1 and CON 2 to the SPC (salivary protein gene complex), CON 1 to Ps (15 families, lod score at ϑ = 0 is 6.77), CON 2 to PmF (7 families, lod score at ϑ = 0 is 5.93), and CON 2 to Gl (5 families, lod score at ϑ=0 is 3.91). In addition to immunologic reactions with the CON 1 and CON 2 proteins, antisera to PRP show extensive immunologic reactions with many other salivary proteins when tested by immunoblotting on nitrocellulose. Some of these proteins were previously identified PRP (proline-rich proteins) that are determined by different PRP loci.
A cloud-enabled regional climate model evaluation system

The climate research community is increasingly interested in utilizing direct, observational measurements to validate model output in an effort to tune those models to better approximate our planet's dynamic climate. The current emphasis on performing these comparisons at regional, as opposed to global, scales presents challenges both scientific and technical, since regional ecosystems are highly heterogeneous and the available data is not readily consumed on a regional basis. If provided with a common approach for efficiently accessing and utilizing the existing observational datasets, climate researchers have the potential to effect lasting societal, economic and political benefits. A key challenge, however, is that model-to-observational comparison requires massive quantities of data and significant computational capabilities. Further complicating matters is the fact that, currently, observational data and model outputs exist in a variety of data formats, utilize varying degrees of specificity and resolution, and reside in disparate, highly heterogeneous data systems. In this paper we present a software architectural approach that leverages the advantages of cloud computing and modern open-source software technologies to address the regional climate modeling problem. Our system, dubbed RCMES, is highly scalable and elastic, allows for both local and distributed management of the satellite observations and generated model outputs, and delivers this information to climate researchers in a way that is easily integrated into existing climate simulations and statistical tools.
FIDDLER CRABS OF JAMAICA (DECAPODA, BRACHYURA, OCYPODIDAE, GENUS UCA)

Review of recent collections and older material in the U.S. National Museum of Natural History and the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia has confirmed the occurrence of six species of fiddler crabs on the island of Jamaica. The discovery of a colony of Uca major in Kingston Harbor has suggested that it was this species rather than the South American form, U. m. maracoani, that formed the basis of a disputed 18th-century identification by Sir Hans Sloane. At the same time another South American species, U. cumulanta, was found to be well represented on the mud flats around Kingston Harbor. The remaining four species are typical of the Caribbean. U. rapax and U. t. thayeri occur in muds associated with mangrove swamps, U. leptodactyla was found on sand, and U. burgersi occupied habitats on both sandy and muddy substrates ranging in salinity from brackish to seasonally hypersaline. U. v. vocator has yet to be reported from Jamaica although it is known from estuaries and mud flats on other islands of the Caribbean. Evidence of female reproductive activity was found in samples of all species, except U. rapax and U. burgersi, collected one to three days before new moon in late March, 1982. Past habitats of fiddler crabs in Kingston Harbor have been extensively modified by pollution, dredging, and filling. A growing body of literature has demonstrated the sensitivity of fiddler crabs to such environmental stresses and pointed to the usefulness of the animals as bioindicators of alterations of local intertidal habitats.
Simulation and theory of speckle noise for an annular aperture frequency-modulation differential-absorption LIDAR (FM-DIAL) system

This paper presents theory of speckle noise for a frequency-modulation differential-absorption LIDAR system along with simulation results. These results show an unexpected relationship between the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the speckle and the distance to the retro-reflector or target. In simulation, the use of an annular aperture in the system results in a higher SNR at midrange distances than at short or long distances. This peak in SNR occurs in the region where the laser’s Gaussian beam profile approximately fills the target. This was unexpected since it does not occur in the theory or simulations of the same system with a circular aperture. By including the autocorrelation of this annular aperture and expanding the complex correlation factor used in speckle models to include conditions not generally covered, a more complete theoretical model is derived for this system. Obscuration of the center of the beam at near distances is also a major factor in this relationship between SNR and distance. We conclude by comparing the resulting SNR as a function of distance from this expanded theoretical model to the simulations of the system over a double-pass horizontal range of 10 meters to 10 km at a wavelength of 1.28 micrometers
Compressive behavior of undulations in filament-wound composites

The compressive performance of a filament-wound cylinder can be severely degraded by unavoidable fiber curvatures due to the presence of crossover bands. These crossover bands contain fiber undulations which influence the compressive strength, stiffness, and associated failure mechanisms of a filament-wound structure. The primary objectives of this study were to identify failure mechanisms and measure the compressive strength and stiffness of test specimens which model the microundulations. Compressive tests were conducted on flat-panel coupons which were developed to model the mechanics of large-scale fiber undulation regions in filament-wound composite cylinders. The primary effect of the undulation regions within a filament-wound structure is to initiate failure. Depending on the overall laminate configuration, the failure process includes various combinations of failure mechanisms, such as delaminations, matrix splitting and/or fiber fracture. These failure mechanisms are aggravated by the presence of large deformations caused by the reduction in local compressive stiffness and the introduction of complex material couplings due to the fiber undulation. Furthermore, the adjacent layers have been shown to strongly influence the compressive strength, stiffness, and associated failure mechanisms by weakening or reinforcing the laminate.
Reply to Letter to the Editor: In Brief: Crowe’s Classification: Arthroplasty in Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip

Reply: We are grateful to Drs. Wu and Lin for reading our article entitled: In Brief: Crowe’s Classification: Arthoplasty in Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip [2]. They correctly pointed out errors in Table 1 of the article. We agree that Group I should read: Subluxation 100% or proximal dislocation of > 20% or 0.2 of pelvic height [1]. The text of the manuscript, however, describes this classification without the above-mentioned errors. An erratum confirming these changes will be published. Once again, we are grateful to Drs. Wu and Lin for bringing this to our attention.
Polarization parameter in elastic proton-proton scattering from 0.75 to 2.84 GeV

Abstract : The polarization parameter in elastic proton-proton scattering was measured at 0.75, 1.03, 1.32, 1.63, 2.24, and 2.84 GeV by employing a double-scattering technique. An external proton beam from the Brookhaven Cosmotron was focused on a three-inch long liquid hydrogen target and the elastic recoil and scattered protons were detected in coincidence by scintillation counters. The polarization of the recoil beam was determined from the azimuthal asymmetry exhibited in its scattering from a carbon target. Values of the polarization parameter as a function of the center-of-mass scattering angle are given for each incident beam energy. The predictions of the Regge theory for polarization in elastic proton-proton scattering and recently published phase shift solutions are compared with the experimental results. Surprisingly good agreement with the Regge predictions is found despite the low energies involved. (Author)
Speculation contrasting experiences of World War II and U.S. servicemen of the Vietnam era in Southeast Asia.

The Vietnam Era (1964-1975) coincided with mushrooming drug use in this country. The problems stirred up by the "Hippies" (3) may have led to neglect of a factor in Vietnam drug abuse by servicemen. The speculation offered here is that drug use was actively encouraged as a guerilla tactic by the Viet Cong. To test this speculation the author talked informally with three older therapists who had also had contact with many World War I1 veterans. The question posed was: Did you ever see a World War I1 veteran stationed in the China-Burma-India theater and returned to the U.S. with a drug habit? No one, including the author, could recall an addicted veteran from that area in World War 11. It was not possible in 1993 to determine the extent to which troops actually spent time in Vietnam (then French Indochina) during that war, but that theater contained areas in which drugs were used, primarily opium. The ALLied troops did have the benefit of civilian support in World War 11, whereas telling the South Vietnamese from the Viet Cong was a major oroblem durine the Vietnam era. The next group queried on an informal basis were Vietnam veterans. Reaction was often an "Aha" phenomenon. In retrospect they recalled that they had frequently received drugs without paying for them. A few veterans said they had never for drugs while in the country. The most significant response was a veteran who said this idea cleared up something he had never understood. He had been held in a detoxifying area prior to being sent home, and the exercise yard had two fences around it. Nevertheless, Vietnamese children thew free drugs to the incarcerated men in the exercise yard. He felt their generosity could be understood if it were their "job" to keep U.S. servicemen provided with drugs. Other veterans took the position that drugs were "everywhere" and used by both sides. This view also has merit, that drug seUers were simply pushing a local product for profit. Little reliable information is available about any drug trade. One book, considered reliable by a former Central Intelligence Agency officer who reviewed it, pointed out actions by the Mafia in Brazil: " . . . in 1972 when the entire U.S. heroin population consumed some 90 kilos (198 pounds) a month, the Brazilian Mafia families alone were preparing to ship 300 kilos a month. The Mafia was not just feeding a habit but creating one" (2). The idea that "drugs were everywhere" would not account for instances in Vietnam where no monev chaneed hands. The Vietnam veterans were prevented from communication experiences available to most veterans of World War I1 and the Korean Conflict. In the earlier wars veterans returned home 'This paper reflects [he author's personal views and in no way represents the official view of the De arrment of Veterans Affairs or the U.S. government. Address requests for reprints to Dr. ha Knox, 116B-1, V. A. Medical Center, Biloxi, MS 39531.
Does early repair of lingual nerve injuries improve functional sensory recovery

Purpose This study evaluated the relationship between timing of lingual nerve repair and functional sensory recovery. Materials and Methods Using a retrospective cohort study design, the investigators enrolled a sample of subjects who had lingual nerve repair. The predictor variable was time between injury and repair, categorized as early ( 90 days after injury). The outcome variable was the time to functional sensory recovery (FSR), measured in days. Other variables were categorized as demographic, anatomic, and operative. Uni- and multivariate Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate the association between the timing of the repair and time to FSR. Results The study sample was composed of 64 subjects who had lingual nerve repair between January 1998 and January 2005. The mean time between injury and repair was 153.2 (31–1606) days; 21.9% of subjects had early repair. The mean age was 28.4 ± 8.0 years, 62.5% of subjects were female; 77% of the injured nerves were repaired by direct suture, and 23% had surgical exploration with decompression/neurolysis. In bivariate analyses, early repair, method of repair, and neuroma were statistically or near-statistically associated with time to FSR ( P ≤ .12). In a multiple Cox proportional hazards model, early repair was associated with time to FSR ( P = .02). Ninety-three percent of subjects in the early repair group achieved FSR within 1 year, compared with 62.9% in the late group ( P = .05). Conclusions Early repair of lingual nerve injuries results in FSR more frequently and earlier than late repair.
ON PRECIPITABLE SUBSTANCES DERIVED FROM BACILLUS TYPHOSUS AND BACILLUS PARATYPHOSUS B

Attempts to confirm certain statements that ether-soluble specific substances can be obtained from B. typhosus have lead to negative results. Two serologically active protein substances and another that was non-protein have been separated from B. typhosus. The first two are not resistant to tryptic digestion or to treatment with alkaline hypochlorite solution whereas the third resists both. One of the proteins could be extracted with 75 per cent alcohol. Specific precipitable substances reacting like the non-protein substance of B. typhosus and containing large amounts of carbohydrates have been prepared from B. paratyphosus B, B. enteritidis, and Proteus HX19 and OX19. Observations on the serological behaviour of these preparations are described.
Sliding-layer conformational change limited by the quaternary structure of plant RuBisCO

RuBisCO, D-ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase-oxygenase (EC 4.1.1.39), converts carbon dioxide to sugar in the first step of photosynthesis. In plants and some bacteria, this enzyme has an L8S8 structure, where L is the large catalytic subunit and S is the small subunit of unknown function. The molecule resembles a keg 105 A along the 4-fold axis and 132 A in diameter at the widest point of the keg. Here we describe the quaternary structure of RuBisCO from N. tabacum, the first L8S8 type known from an X-ray crystallographic study at near-atomic resolution (3 A). The structure shows that all eight L subunits are elongated along the 4-fold axis so that the molecule cannot be simply described as layers of subunits, as it had been from studies by electron microscopy. The structure, with its elongated and interdigitated L subunits, is evidence against a large, sliding-layer conformational change in plant RuBisCO, as proposed recently in Nature for the same enzyme from Alcaligenes eutrophus.
Destabilization of the Si(111) π -bonded chain structure upon Cs adsorption

Contrary to previous knowledge, we have found an ordered $\sqrt{3}\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}\sqrt{3}R30\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}$ surface reconstruction on the cleaved Si(111) surface after room-temperature deposition of one monolayer of Cs. The preparation and characterization of this surface, and the dispersion of the lowest unoccupied surface-state band as measured with angle-resolved inverse photoemission spectroscopy are presented. The surface is observed at the saturation of the work function and found to be semiconducting.
Induced sputum proteome in healthy subjects and asthmatic patients

Background Asthma is a heterogeneous disease characterized by abnormal airway pathophysiology and susceptibility to different stimuli, as exemplified by a subset of patients with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. Induced sputum provides a noninvasive method to sample airway biofluids that are enriched in proteins. Objective We hypothesized that novel mechanisms in the pathogenesis of asthma might be revealed by studying the patterns of protein expression in induced sputum. Methods We used shotgun proteomics to analyze induced sputum from 5 healthy subjects and 10 asthmatic patients, including 5 with exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. Differential protein expression among asthmatic patients, asthma subphenotypes, and control subjects was determined by using spectral counting and computational methods. Results Using Gene Ontology analysis, we defined the functional landscape of the induced sputum proteome and applied network analysis to construct a protein interaction map for this airway compartment. Shotgun proteomics analysis identified a number of proteins the differential enrichment or depletion of which robustly distinguished asthmatic patients from healthy control subjects and captured the effects of exercise on induced sputum proteome. Functional and network analysis identified key processes, including proteolytic activity, that are known contributors to airway remodeling. Importantly, this approach highlighted previously unrecognized roles for differentially expressed proteins in pathways implicated in asthma, such as modulation of phospholipase A 2 by secretoglobin, a putative role for S100A8/9 in human asthma, and selective upregulation of complement component 3a in response to exercise in asthmatic patients. Conclusion Computationally intensive analysis of induced sputum proteome is a powerful approach to understanding the pathophysiology of asthma and a promising methodology to investigating other diseases of the airways.
Alphoid DNA polymorphisms for chromosome 21 can be distinguished from those of chromosome 13 using probes homologous to both

Although alphoid DNA sequences shared among acrocentric chromosomes have been identified, no human chromosome 21-specific sequence has been isolated from the centromeric region. To identify alphoid DNA restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs) specific for chromosome 21, we hybridized human genomic DNA with alphoid DNA probes [L1.26; aRI(680),21-208] shared by chromosomes 13 and 21. We detected RFLPs with restriction enzymes ECoRI, HaeIII, MboI,StuI, and TaqI. The segregation of these RFLPs was analyzed in the 40 CEPH families. Linkage analysis between these RFLPs and loci previously mapped to either chromosome 13 or 21 revealed RFLPs that appear to be specific to chromosome 21. These polymorphisms may be useful as genetic markers of the centromeric region of chromosome 21. Different alphoid loci within the centromeric region of chromosome 13 were identified.
Teen home pregnancy test takers: more worried or more wishful?

Objective. To test the hypothesis that teenagers who have taken home pregnancy tests are more ambivalent about remaining nonpregnant than those who have not and, for this reason, use contraceptives less consistently. Methods. A racially diverse group of 340 inadequately contracepting, nulligravida teens, 94 (28%) of whom had taken a home pregnancy test, was studied. At enrollment, participants completed a self-administered questionnaire, were counseled about contraceptive options, and were given the opportunity to initiate their method of choice. The enrollment tool assessed traditional teen-pregnancy risk factors, expectations about the effects of childbearing, common deterrents to contraceptive use, the desirability of remaining nonpregnant, and contraceptive use and plans. Results. Home pregnancy test takers were more apt to be unsure that they wanted to remain nonpregnant (relative risk [RR]:1.3; 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.1–1.6), principally because they were more likely to lack negative expectations about the effects of childbearing on their lives (odds ratio: 2.2; 95% CI = 1.2–4.0). Although no more likely to perceive deterrents to contraceptive use, pregnancy-test-kit users were more apt to have had unprotected sexual intercourse in the past (RR:1.3; 95% CI:1.1–1.5) and to plan to do so in the future (RR:1.7; 95% CI:1.1–3.3). Group differences in the desire to remain nonpregnant accounted for differences in contraceptive behavior and plans. Conclusion. Home pregnancy test taking should be regarded as a red flag by those who care for adolescents; although they are as capable of using contraceptives as their peers, test takers are less apt to do so because they expect less negative consequences from childbearing and, for this reason, may benefit more from discussing childbearing expectations than contraceptive options.
Treatment of Simmonds' Disease

It has now been almost 30 years since Simmonds (1) described the syndrome associated with extensive pituitary destruction. Since then, there have been many reports of the various clinical and pathological manifestations of this disease (2). In a number of the reports, however, the clinical diagnoses are not well established. The diagnosis is sometimes difficult to make and has, not infrequently, been missed. Nevertheless, with the methods now available for study, the diagnostic accuracy has increased. Although in this report we are chiefly concerned with the treatment of Simmonds' disease, we will also emphasize certain diagnostic features, since the proper understanding of these increases the efficiency of treatment. The disease is always associated with marked destruction of the anterior pituitary gland. The cause of the destruction is varied, although most commonly it is postpartum necrosis (3) or a tumor. As a result of this destruction there is a marked decrease in the function of the thyroid, adrena...
Biomedical and Health Informatics for Surgery

The application of biomedical and health informatics to surgery holds tremendous opportunities to enhance surgical care. Better use of information in surgical practice has the potential to streamline care, remove inefficiencies, and allow for improvements in surgical research. With greater EHR adoption, health care reform, and direct investment in HIT, an increasing opportunity exists for surgeons to access and use patient information more effectively. For this to happen, greater focus on the specific needs of surgeons is particularly important, alongside increasing the number of surgical informatics stakeholders.
Emerging Antitrust Issues in Electronic Commerce

Abstract The world of electronic commerce has revolutionized retailing and marketing. Electronic commerce has not only created a new marketplace but also greatly reduced traditional market borders and increased the opportunities for competition. In this article, the author addresses how electronic commerce has changed the competitive retailing marketplace and how antitrust enforcers face the challenge of ensuring that competition is not stifled in these new markets. He discusses the application of traditional antitrust analysis to the new competitive issues in electronic commerce.
Effect of long-term treatment with inhaled corticosteroids and beta-agonists on the bronchial responsiveness in children with asthma

Airway inflammation is assumed to be an important determinant in increased bronchial responsiveness (BR). We tested the hypothesis that treatment with an inhaled anti-inflammatory drug (i.e., budesonide) but not with an inhaled β-agonsit (i.e., terbutaline) would reduce BR in children with asthma and with minimal or no bronchoconstriction. Twelve patients were treated with budesonide and seven with terbutaline for 6 months. BR decreased in 11 patients receiving budesonide and was significant in seven patients. BR decreased in none of the patients receiving terbutaline FEV 1 demonstrated a small increase with budesonide but remained unchanged with terbutaline Except in one patient, who received terbutaline, the clinical effect was good. We conclude that inhaled corticosteroids but not inhaled β-agonists will decrease persistent BR in most children with asthma.
Stay in School, Don’t Become a Parent Teen Life Transitions and Cumulative Disadvantages for Voter Turnout

We investigate three important life transitions—becoming a parent, getting married, and dropping out or graduating from high school—on the development of civic engagement. We qualify the socioecono...
Evaluation of the potential role of water in spread of conidia of the Neotyphodium endophyte of Poa ampla.

Neotyphodium endophytes are asexual, filamentous fungi, mutualistically associated with diverse cool season grasses. Infected seeds and vegetative organs of infected host plants are the only known modes of propagation of the asexual endophytes. In the last decade certain Epichloe and Neotyphodium-infected grass species have been shown to have epiphyllous structures of the endophytes, hyphae, conidiophores, and conidia, growing on leaf blades. The production of epiphyllous conidia suggests the possibility that some of these endophytes may have the ability for plant-to-plant spread. The objective of this study was to determine the possible mechanisms involved in liberation and dispersal of asexual spores of Neotyphodium growing in vitro and epiphyllously on leaves of Poa ampla. Our results indicate that water dispersal is the most likely means of dissemination of conidia of the Neotyphodium sp. Wind generated by dry compressed air does not dislodge the conidia from slide cultures or from P. ampla leaves.
Age dependent porosity of young upper oceanic crust: Insights from seafloor gravity studies of recent volcanic eruptions

[1] An October 1997 ALVIN program collected a series of seafloor gravity stations over the February, 1996, volcanic eruption site on the northern Gorda Ridge (46°41′N, 126°47′W). These measurements yielded estimates of the density and porosity of mid-ocean ridge crust in the first few decades following formation. The estimated crustal density for this pillow eruption of 2270 ± 260 kg/m3 is very low, but in good agreement with the estimated densities of other recent seafloor volcanic flows. Rock matrix densities, measured from hand samples retrieved from the study area, give a bulk porosity for this flow of 34% ± 16%. This data, when included with similar estimates of upper crustal porosity, argue for a rapid evolution of upper crustal porosities from very high values (≥30%) for recent eruptions to much lower values (∼10–15%) where the seafloor is older than 0.5 million years. These variations of density and porosity are of a magnitude consistent with previously observed changes in seismic compressional wave velocity and permeability of ocean crust.
The steroidogenic activity of biotinylcorticotropin-avidin complexes.

The steroidogenic activity of complexes of [biocytin25]-corticotropin1–25 amide (biotinylcorticotropin) with avidin (1:1), (4:1) and (1:10) was compared to that of biotinylcorticotropin using isolated rat adrenal cells. Parallel log-dose responses and maximal stimulation were observed with all these materials. The 1:1 complex is approximately 25% as active as biotinylcorticotropin (ED5022.5 and 5.6 nM respectively). The 4:1 complex is more active than the 1:1 complex (ED509.0 nM). The presence of an excess of avidin (1:10 complex) does not interfere with the ability of biotinylcorticotropin to stimulate steroidogenesis (ED5018.0 nM). It is concluded that biotinylcorticotropin attached to avidin binds specifically to receptors on the rat adrenal cell and elicits its biological response. These results indicate that biotinylcorticotropin can be noninvasively labeled with 125I-avidin.
Category production in response to script and category cues by kindergarten and second-grade children

Abstract Two groups of kindergartners and one group of second graders produced items from three familiar categories under one of two conditions: with general taxonomic category instructions, and with instructions to produce items from two script contexts for each category. Older children and kindergarten children with prior school experience produced more items than 5-year-olds without school experience. Second graders produced more items in the taxonomic condition, although kindergartners produced more in the script cue condition, indicating that the older children had begun to integrate narrower script-based categories into broader taxonomic categories. Analyses of item organization indicated that all children relied upon event- context organization for the food and clothing categories, but no generally used organization emerged for the animal category.
Thymosin fraction 5 stimulates the release of prolactin from cultured GH3 cells

Thymosin fraction 5, a bovine thymus preparation, has recently been implicated in the regulation of neuroendocrine function. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of thymosin fraction 5 treatment upon the GH3 rat pituitary cell line. Thymosin fraction 5 stimulated prolactin (PRL) release from these cells in a dose and time dependent manner. These results suggest that a product of the endocrine thymus may regulate the release of PRL.
Unsupervised content-based indexing of sports video

This paper presents a methodology for automatically indexing a large corpus of broadcast baseball games using an unsupervised content-based approach. The method relies on the learning of a grounded language model which maps query terms to the non-linguistic context to which they refer. Grounded language models are learned from a large, unlabeled corpus of video events. Events are represented using a codebook of automatically discovered temporal patterns of low level features extracted from the raw video. These patterns are associated with words extracted from the closed captioning text using a generalization of Latent Dirichlet Allocation. We evaluate the benefit of the grounded language model by extending a traditional language model based approach to information retrieval. Experimental results indicate that using a grounded language model nearly doubles performance on a held out test set.
Stable isotopes as probes of terrestrial and extraterrestrial biotic and abiotic synthesis of organic matter

Determining how, where and when life as we know it originated are three of the most challenging questions confronting scientists. The fact that the Earth has likely been infected with life as far back in time as the rock record extends makes it almost futile to search for life's precursors on this planet. There is no definitive way to distinguish structures of the key biomonomers essential for life's origin from the remnants of once living organisms that have accumulated or recycled through the geosphere for approximately the past 4 billion years. While extraterrestrial materials that have fallen to Earth have been probed for clues to life's origin elsewhere in the solar system, these materials also, upon impact, become part of the Earth system. Thus, their subsequent contamination via exchange with terrestrial biota is always a realistic possibility. Exploring other planetary bodies is the third possible way to trace life's origin or the origin of organic compounds that preceded life. However, it is almost impossible to expect that manned or unmanned probes will not to some extent infect the surfaces of these bodies during contact. We propose that one possible way to begin to distinguish abiotic compounds from biotic compounds as well as terrestrial vs. extraterrestrial compounds is an assessment of the stable isotope compositions of the light elements that comprise them relative to those of the substrates from which they were formed.