cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract 5028: MicroRNA-212 targets multiple signaling pathways in prostate cancer

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most common type of cancer in men in the United States. While metastasis is the most common cause of death among PCa patients, no specific markers have been assigned to the severity of the disease. Identification of molecular factors could improve diagnosis and therapeutic intervention of PCa. MicroRNAs represent a promising new class of circulating biomarkers owing to their inherent stability and resilience. Studies in our lab have demonstrated that miR-212 is a differentially modulated circulatory microRNA in prostate cancer patients. Identification and validation of miRNA targets provides functional insights in mechanisms of prostate carcinogenesis and strategies for therapy. The present study was aimed to investigate and validate the targets for miR-212 to elucidate its role in prostate cancer and identify potential biomarkers and/or therapeutic targets for prostate cancer. Common mRNA targets of miR-212 were extracted from four web-based databases: TargetScan, miRanda, RNAhybrid, and PicTar. Some of the important common targets for miR-212 included DEDD, E2F5, GRM3, G2L1, SPRED1, SIRT1, SOS1, RASA1, PEA15, MYC, MAPK3, MAPK1 and HMGA2. Out of these SIRT1, SOS1, SPRED1, RASA1 were picked for further validation based on their documented role in carcinogenesis and tumor progression. Transfection studies with miR-212 mimics were performed in PC3 and LnCap prostate cancer cell lines. Western blotting was used to see the initial expression of various targets. 3′UTR-Luciferase reporter assay was performed for validating the target inhibition by miR-212. In addition, Cell proliferation assay and wound-healing assay were performed to evaluate the effects of miR-212 on PCa cell proliferation and migration. In summary the present study identifies and validates miR-212 targets and examines the functional significance of miR-212 in prostate cancer (PCa) cells lines. *Contributed equally. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 5028. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-5028
Tandemly repeated sequences in the mitochondrial DNA control region and phylogeography of the pike-perches Stizostedion

DNA sequences from the mitochondrial DNA control region are used to test the phylogeographic relationships among the pike-perches, Stizostedion (Teleostei: Percidae) and to examine patterns of variation. Sequences reveal two types of variability: single nucleotide polymorphisms and 6 to 14 copies of 10- to 11-base-pair tandemly repeated sequences. Numbers of copies of the tandem repeats are found to evolve too rapidly to detect phylogenetic signal at any taxonomic level, even among populations. Sequence similarities of the tandem repeats among Stizostedion and other percids suggest concerted evolutionary processes. Predicted folding of the tandem repeats and their proximity to termination-associated sequences indicate that secondary structure mediates slipped-strand mispairing among the d-loop, heavy, and light strands. Neighbor-joining and maximum parsimony analyses of sequences indicate that the genus is divided into clades on the continents of North America and Eurasia. Calibrating genetic distances with divergence times supports the hypothesis that Stizostedion dispersed from Eurasia to North America across a North Pacific Beringial land bridge approximately 4 million years before present, near the beginning of the Pliocene Epoch. The North American S. vitreum and S. canadense appear separated by about 2.75 million years, and the Eurasian S. lucioperca and S. volgensis are diverged by about 1.8 million years, suggesting that speciation occurred during the late Pliocene Epoch.
OBJECT-ORIENTED IMPLEMENTATION OF AN INTEGRATED DESIGN AND ANALYSIS TOOL FOR FIBER PLACED STRUCTURES

With the expanding use of fiber placement technology to control fiber orientations in composite parts, a need exists for an integrated system allowing concurrent design, modeling and analysis. Currently, the capability of designing fiber placed parts resides with the offline programming systems of the fiber placement machines themselves. This design capability exists independently of modeling and analysis capabilities. This paper presents the design and implementation of an integrated design and analysis system for use in preliminary through detailed design phases of a fiber placed structure. The described system is unique in that it controls the design of tows rather than plies, and as such enables an evaluation of manufacturability during preliminary design. Implementation includes the development of self-positioning tow representations, simulating the manufactured part, using specified fiber angle control methods; validation of these representations; integration of self-positioning tow representations with a pre-existing analysis tool; and integration with finite element analysis tools accepting the NASTRAN file format. This system allows for the generation and evaluation of multiple solutions in the preliminary design phase without the use of proprietary machine programming systems.
Health promotion and the older population: Expanding our theoretical horizons

As the year 2000 approaches (and beyond) more health educators will be involved in the implementation of health promotion programs and related activities specifically designed for the older population. Most health educators draw upon a variety of theoretical frame-works as they design programs. Traditionally, health education has been grounded in behavior change theories such as the Health Belief Model, the Theory of Reasoned Action, and Bandura's Social Learning/Cognitive Theories. When the focus is gerontological, however, an opportunity exists to expand health education's theoretical horizons by incorporating features drawn from gerontology itself. Principles of adult cognitive development, social gerontology and person-environment fit can potentially complement and supplement those models already in use as more programs are targeted for a growing older population.
Comparison of brain slice chamber designs for investigations of oxygen deprivation in vitro

Abstract We have systematically compared anoxia-induced effects in the CA1 stratum pyramidale of rat hippocampal slices maintained in Haas-type interface, and fully-submerged recording chambers to determine whether heterogeneous responses occur in response to oxygen deprivation, between these brain slice chambers. Extracellular K + concentration ([K + ] e ), extracellular d.c. potential, and synaptically-evoked field potentials were measured using a K + -selective microelectrode. In slices maintained in the interface chamber, anoxia resulted in a dramatic disturbance of K + homeostasis; during the first ≈3 min of anoxia, [K + ] e increased to ca. 5 mM and synaptic transmission was abolished. Thereafter, [K + ] e increased explosively to ca. 35 mM, and a negative shift in the extracellular d.c. potential occurred. In slices maintained fully-submerged, even prolonged anoxia (60 min) caused only a very modest increase in [K + ] e to ca. 5 mM and a negative shift in the extracellular potential never occurred. However, when glucose deprivation was combined with anoxia, both a dramatic increase in [K + ] e and a negative shift in the d.c. potential were observed. We conclude that major differences exist in the degree of disruption of ionic homeostasis by anoxia in rat hippocampal slices when they are maintained at a gas-liquid interface, compared to when they are completely immersed. Possible factors underlying this difference include heterogeneous rates of glucose diffusion into the tissue slices, and washout from the extracellular space of accumulating substances such as K + by the perfusing artificial cerebrospinal fluid (ACSF). The changes observed in the interface chamber may more closely replicate the dramatic disturbance of K + homeostasis that is commonly observed in rodent brain in response to anoxia in vivo.
Does regulation improve small farmers' access to Brazilian rural credit?

Abstract Brazilian policymakers attempted to counter the inherent tendency for concentration in subsidized rural credit programs by requiring banks to lend a specified volume to small farmers. Inferences about the regulation's success are drawn from farm-level, panel data from Sao Paulo in the early 1980s. Membership in the target group should have a positive effect in an ‘access rule’, relating farmers' characteristics to their probability of receiving credit. When allowing for time-invariant individual effects, possibly correlated with target group indicators, tests indicate that the regulation had no effect. Subsidiary results cast doubt on the efficacy of a broader set of regulations.
Comparison of guided and discovery learning strategies

Summary.-60 volunteer female university students randomly assigned to either a variable guidance, single guidance, or discovery group performed initial acquisition and transfer trials of the Mirror Target Toss Test. AU three groups exhibited similar acquisition curves on the initial task. Significant differences on the last acquisition block and first transfer block were found between the discovery group and the variable-guidance group, with the former exhibiting the poorer performance. Means for the second transfer block were similar, indicating adjustment to the task. According to the experimental research in verbal and psychomotor learning, the literature on guided or error-free learning leads to quicker mastery of a task (8, 9, lo), being advantageous to situations restricted by time. However, when the intent of the instruction is transfer, the trial-and-error (error-full) technique has been superior (1, 3, 5, 7, 8). Much of ths research has either been laboratory based or has used a cognitive skill to study learning with and without errors. Only some have used real-world psychomotor tasks. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of three instructional strategies, two levels of guided instruction, and one level of discovery on the transfer properties of a novel throwing skill. The subjects were 60 volunteer university female students randomly assigned to one of the three instructional groups. Subjects had no prior experience with the task but exhibited similar throwing skill in reaching the wall. The initial task was a modification of the Mirror Target Toss Test (2, 6) which involved rebounding a volleyball off a hard surfaced wall onto a floor target while viewing the image of the target in a mirror. The floor target consisted of three concentric circles whose centers were 11 feet from the wall. The initial throwing position was marked six feet from the wall and 11 feet to the right of the floor target. The transfer-task location was marked at a further distance from the wall and target. A partition was stationed between the floor target and the subject, blocking direct vision of the target. The mirror was angled so a clear and total view of the floor target from the throwing positions was possible. Wall targets for the two guided groups were either one or three circles, positioned one above the other on a flat wall, such that a rebound from a circle assisted in making accurate contact with the floor target.
Carotid-Sparing Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy for Early-Stage Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the True Vocal Cord

Purpose To compare radiation doses to carotid arteries among various radiotherapy techniques for treatment of early-stage squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the true vocal cords. Methods and Materials Five patients were simulated using computed tomography (CT). Clinical and planning target volumes (PTV) were created for bilateral and unilateral stage T1 vocal cord cancers. Planning risk volumes for the carotid arteries and spinal cord were delineated. For each patient, three treatment plans were designed for bilateral and unilateral target volumes: opposed laterals (LATS), three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3DCRT), and intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), for a total of 30 plans. More than 95% of the PTV received the prescription dose (63Gy at 2.25 Gy per treatment). Results Carotid dose was lowest with IMRT. With a bilateral vocal cord target, the median carotid dose was 10Gy with IMRT vs. 25 Gy with 3DCRT and 38 Gy with LATS (p Conclusions There is no question that IMRT can reduce the dose to the carotid arteries in patients with early-stage vocal cord cancer. The question is whether the potential advantage of reducing the carotid dose outweighs the risk of tumor recurrence due to contouring errors and organ motion and the risk of complications from dose heterogeneity.
Adenovirus type 2 polypeptide synthesis in arginine-deprived cells

Abstract Among the exogenous amino acids which are essential for mammalian cell growth in vitro, only arginine (arg) is absolutely required for productive infection by nuclear DNA viruses. As previously reported, when arg-deprived KB cells are infected with adenovirus type 2, both viral DNA and viral structural proteins are synthesized at appropriate times in the virus growth cycle, but virion assembly does not occur. Quantitative study of the polypeptides made late in infection by electrophoresis under denaturing conditions show that (1) all the polypeptides synthesized in arg+ cultures are also identified in arg− cultures; (2) overall synthesis is reduced 70–75%; (3) neither a disproportionate reduction of one or more polypeptides nor enhanced degradation is observed. An equivalent reduction in virus polypeptide synthesis is seen in isoleucine-starved cells as well as a similarly reduced rate of protein synthesis, but significant yields (1000 FFU/cell) of virus progeny are obtained. Since no alteration in the proportions of the various viral polypeptides could be detected and since similar amounts were adequate to support virus production in isoleucine-deficient cells, the arg-sensitive function cannot occur at the level of synthesis. This suggests the possibility that an as yet undefined arg-sensitive host function may be a critical prerequisite in virus assembly.
Differential effects of selenium on the growth of mouse mammary cells in vitro.

The effect of selenium was examined on the growth potential of normal, preneoplastic and neoplastic mammary cells grown in primary monolayer cell cultures and on 3 established mammary cell lines. Selenium, present as Na2SeO3 in serum-free DMEM, inhibited all mammary cell cultures at 1 × 10−5 M. Selenium, at 5 × 10−8 M, stimulated the growth of primary cell cultures of normal mammary cells and C4 preneoplastic cells and the established cell line YN-4, but not the growth of D2 preneoplastic cells and tumors in primary cell cultures and of established cell line CL-S1 and WAZ-2t. The differential responses of cells from preneoplastic outgrowth lines C4 and D2 and of D2 primary tumors in vitro correlated with the sensitivity of these same cell populations to selenium-mediated inhibition of growth and tumorigenesis in vivo. The differential responses among the 3 cell lines will allow further comparative studies on the cell biological basis of selenium function.
Plasma atherogenic markers in congestive heart failure and posttransplant (heart) patients

Abstract OBJECTIVES We hypothesized that plasma factors important for the development of atherosclerosis play a major role in the occurrence of cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV). BACKGROUND Cardiac allograft vasculopathy is a major cause of death among heart transplant recipients, has a poorly understood pathogenesis and has similarities to atherosclerotic coronary disease. METHODS The study population consisted of 93 postcardiac transplant recipients. Thirty-one patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) and 18 healthy individuals served as control subjects. Posttransplant coronary anatomy was evaluated by angiography and intravascular ultrasound. Laboratory analyses of lipids, homocysteine, vitamin B 12 and folate, fibrinogen, vonWillebrand factor antigen (vWFAg) and renin were obtained on all participants. RESULTS Posttransplant patients were found to have elevated serum triglycerides, total cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio, lipoprotein (a), homocysteine, vWFAg, fibrinogen and renin and lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Most of these laboratory atherogenic factors were also elevated to a similar degree in the CHF control population. Although most atherogenic markers were elevated, there was little correlation with CAV severity. Cardiac allograft vasculopathy severity varied with time after transplantation, 3-hydroxy-methyl-glutaryl-coenzyme A reductase inhibitor use and prior cytomegalovirus infection. Even within the normal range, lower RBC folate levels were associated with increased severity of CAV. CONCLUSIONS The posttransplant course is associated with increased clinical and laboratory atherogenic factors, some of which likely contribute to the severity of coronary vasculopathy. Compared with normal control subjects, many of these markers are already increased in pretransplant CHF patients with or without occlusive coronary artery disease.
NMR Spectral Data of Benzofurans and Bithiophenes from Hairy Root Cultures of Tagetes Patula Andthe Molecular Structure of Isoeuparin

Abstract In the course of our biosynthetic studies of constituents of hairy root cultures of Tagetes patula, we isolated four bithiophenes,[5-(3-buten-1-yny1)]-2,2′-bithiophenes(BBT),5-(4-acetoxy-1-butyny1)-2,2′-bithiophenes (BBTOAc),5-(4-hydroxy-1-butyny1)-2,2′bithiophenes (BBTOH) and 5-(3,4-diacetoxy-1-butyny1)-2,2′-bithiophenes [BBT(OAc)2]. In addition, stigmasterol, α-farnesene, three known benzofurans, of which only one was previouly isolated from T.patula, as well as a new benzofuran were obtained. The structures of the componds were determined by spectral analysis and comparison with published data. The molecular structure of the benzofuran isoeuparin was established by single crystal x-ray diffraction.
Alpha coefficients for tetravalent plutonium

The complexation of tetravalent plutonium in aqueous solutions derives from several sources including counterions, hydrolysis, additives, and impurities. A quantitative tool accounting for all such effects, known and unknown, is the alpha coefficient. It can be expressed in six ways by means of the equilibrium fractions of two Pu oxidation states.
The pallidin (Pldn) gene and the role of SNARE proteins in melanosome biogenesis.

This review focuses on the product of the pallidin (Pldn) gene, one of a number of genes that in mice are associated with pigmentation defects and platelet dense granule deficiency. A similar combination of defects is also observed in patients suffering from Hermansky–Pudlak (HPS) and Chediak–Higashi (CHS) syndromes. Pldn encodes a novel, ∼20-kDa protein that is expressed ubiquitously in mammalian tissues. The pallidin protein was found to bind to syntaxin 13, a member of the syntaxin family of soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptors (SNAREs). As SNARE proteins mediate fusion of intracellular membranes, pallidin may play a role in membrane fusion events required for melanosome biogenesis.
Microscale Colocalization of CD3 and CD28 is Required for Activation of Human CD4+ T Cells

It is increasingly recognized that intracellular cell signaling is dependent on the spatial organization of signaling molecules. We previously introduced a platform for investigating spatially-dependent signaling, in the context of the immune synapse, a small (∼70 square micrometer) region of contact between T cells and Antigen Presenting Cells. Multiple rounds of microcontact printing are combined to produce glass surfaces with independently defined, micro-scale patterns of antibodies to CD3 (part of the TCR complex) and CD28 (a major costimulatory signal), surrounded by ICAM-1; antibodies locally engage and activate their respective ligands, organizing signaling complexes in cells on these substrates. We demonstrated that Il-2 secretion by naive mouse CD4+ T cells is sensitive to the position of CD28 signaling within the region of cell-substrate contact, analogous to the immune synapse. Mouse T cell activation is less sensitive to the organization of CD3 both within the cell-substrate interface and with respect to the location of CD28. In sharp contrast, we demonstrate here that Il-2 secretion by human CD4+ T cells requires colocalization of CD3 and CD28 signaling. All patterns we examined in which antibodies to CD3 and CD28 are separated by micrometer-scale distances were ineffective in inducing Il-2 secretion. Immunohistochemcial staining using phospho-specific antibodies after 15 and 60 minutes following cell-substrate binding revealed that colocalized patterns are more effective than segregated counterparts in maintaining Lck phosphorylation at Y394, a site associated with full activation of this kinase. No differences in Zap70, PI3K, or PKC-theta were observed as a function of pattern geometry. Together, these results identify a dramatic difference between mouse and human T cell physiology, and suggest that Lck may be responsible for spatial integration of CD3 and CD28 signaling.
Popular discontent, divided perceptions, and political polarization in Taiwan

Popular discontent with political performance has been a preeminent feature in Taiwanese politics since the first power alternation in 2000. Potential explanations include economic decline, deteriorating quality of democratic governance, and electoral over-competition. For an emerging democracy like Taiwan, the political experience under the Chen Shui-bian administration was a crucial test for the transition to a mature democracy. While popular discontent with various political agencies might convey different messages, the author argues that the synthetic outcome is a partisan-laden perception of political accountability, which led to serious political gridlock and ingrained partisan rivalry that could have jeopardized Taiwan's fledgling democracy. More importantly, polarized politics in Taiwan under the Chen administration can be seen as a lesson, one that illustrates how the process of democratic consolidation can be possibly reversed in an emerging democracy.
The Demand for Protectionism: Democracy, Import Elasticity, and Trade Barriers

Numerous studies suggest that democracies employ lower trade barriers than nondemocracies. In this article, we examine the conditioning role that the elasticity of import demand at the commodity le...
Pathophysiology and biochemistry of end-stage hypertensive heart disease.

Abstract Sustained hypertension is accompanied by certain physiologic and biochemical changes in the heart which may lead to an eventual reduction in myocardial contractility and the onset of circulatory congestion. The early mechanical stress of the hypertensive state evokes cardiac hyperfunction and concentric left ventricular hypertrophy through stimulation of protein synthesis. At some point in the course of the disease one or more rate-limiting processes, in either energy metabolism, excitation-contraction coupling, or the mechanical function of the sarcomere, prevent a normal response to further stress. The small chambered, concentrically hypertrophied ventricle gives way to a large chambered, eccentrically hypertrophied one which must develop a greater wall tension to perform the same or lesser amounts of stroke work. Structural changes in mitochondria, myofibrils, and the coronary circulation occur along with abnormalities in enzyme activity and catecholamine content of the myocardium. The sequence and relative significance of these changes are currently being investigated to elucidate the underlying cause of intrinsic myocardial failure in hypertensive heart disease.
University-Community Partnerships and Community-Based Participatory Research: One Community's Approach to Enhance Capacity in End-of-Life and Bereavement Practice, Research, and Education

Community-based participatory research (CBPR) is an increasingly utilized methodology for actively involving practitioners, community members, organizations, and university researchers in identifying and addressing community health concerns. This article presents one community's effort to conduct community-based participatory research in order to increase awareness and understanding of grief and loss issues as well as to develop evidence-based practice in this specialized field. Utilizing focus groups, the Institute for Grief, Loss, and Family Survival identified community priority needs in grief, loss, and end-of-life care. The findings have resulted in increased awareness, education, research, and community collaboration in advancing the field of grief, bereavement, and end-of-life care.
Redefining the Boundary Spanning-Environment Relationship

A review of previous studies on the relationship between boundary spanning activity and environment indicates that the full effects of environment have not been investigated due to the restricted representation of environmental effects. In addition, we argue that the boundary spanning-environment relationship may be moderated by function, hierarchical level, perceived influence, size, and industry. Accordingly, an enlarged model of the boundary spanning-environment relationship is tested in both the high-technology electronics industry and the wood products industry. Results indicate that boundary spanning activity is related to environment, but this relationship appears to vary along dimensions of environment as well as by industry. In addition, size, perceived influence, and function are found to moderate the boundary spanning-environment relationship. Implications for further studies include a reconceptualization of the boundary spanning-environment relationship based on the findings.
Studies on the sedimentation behaviour of thymus deoxypentose nucleic acid with reference to its homogeneity, size and shape.

1. 1. An examination has been made of the sedimentation and electrophoretic behaviour of separate and mixed solutions of a thymus deoxypentose nucleic acid (DNA) preparation and of the same DNA degraded by sonic irradiation. 2. 2. In sedimentation at an ionic strength of 0.3, the presence of 10% of the degraded DNA in a mixture could be detected, but the method was limited by self-sharpening effects in the boundary and by the insensitivity of sedimentation coefficient (s) to molecular weight. It is concluded that the original DNA cannot contain as much as 10% of such degraded material, but there is some indication of polydispersity in sedimentation at low concentrations. During sedimentation of a mixed solution containing equal amounts of the two DNA's the area of the schlieren peak of the slower, degraded DNA was enhanced by the operation of the Johnston-Ogston effect. 3. 3. In electrophoresis, the individual DNA samples had the same mobility, in spite of the very great difference in the viscosity of their solutions. No separation was observed with the mixtures. 4. 4. Solutions of the degraded DNA (ionic strength = 0.3) had a very much lower viscosity than those of the original DNA and behaved as Newtonian liquids. This enabled its intrinsic viscosity to be determined and a molecular weight for the degraded DNA of the order of 3–4·105 was calculated on the basis of different models. 5. 5. The sedimentation data are discussed with reference to the sedimentation of long rod-like] molecules in general. Application of Perrin's equation shows that, for very large axial ratios, s is chiefly dependent on the minor axis of the equivalent prolate ellipsoid. If this model is assumed, the anhydrous diameter of the undegraded DNA molecule in solution can be estimated as 25 A. The data are also discussed in terms of a flexible chain model, and, on that basis, a molecular weight of about 8.5·106 is obtained.
Tests of a self-control model of depression *

Several hypotheses derived from Rehm's (1977) self-control model of depression were investigated. It was predicted that during their performance on repeated trials of a simple laboratory task, mildly depressed subjects would set more stringent standards and self-reinforce less frequently than nondepressed controls. Neither of these hypotheses was supported. However, relative success at goal achievement and frequent self-reinforcement, in conjunction with an internal attribution for success, exerted a positive effect on mood. Internally attributed failure, externally attributed success, and low rates of self-reinforcement were all associated with increased dysphoria.
Precise estimation of crosstalk in multiline circuits

With advances in VLSI technology, increasing wire density causes coupled-noise or cross-talk, which may lead to critical delays or logic malfunctions. Traditional SPICE simulators are not time-efficient estimators of crosstalk, hence alternatives are sought to ensure acceptable signal integrity in a limited design cycle time. This work proposes a novel and accurate crosstalk noise estimation method in the presence of multiple lines for use in design automation tools. It offers a complete multiline noise model, for the first time, by representing active and passive aggressors simultaneously on the victim line. In the model, active aggressors are represented by current sources and passive aggressors are accurately modelled as equivalent capacitances. Realistic exponential aggressor waveform and resistive shielding effect is all considered. This approach allows to obtain a general noise model that considers the effect of many active and passive aggressors and general formulas derived can easily be applied to...
Fixed left ventricular outflow tract obstruction in presumed hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy: implications for therapy.

Abstract Background . A subset of patients presenting with a presumed diagnosis of hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) have a fixed left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction. Recognition of this pathophysiologic abnormality is important in choosing therapy. Methods . Of patients referred for treatment of HOCM, 4 had fixed LVOT obstruction. Clinical and echocardiographic data and surgical findings were reviewed. Results . In the 4 patients with clinical features consistent with HOCM or HOCM-like conditions, echocardiography showed fixed LVOT obstruction with an early-peaking LVOT Doppler signal or absence of severe systolic anterior motion of the mitral valve. The causes of fixed obstruction included accessory mitral tissue with associated fibrous ring (1 patient), fixed subaortic tunnel stenosis (2 patients), and a discreet subaortic ridge (1 patient). After surgical relief of the fixed LVOT obstruction, all patients had relief of the ventricular outflow tract gradient. Conclusions . Not all patients with a presumed diagnosis of HOCM have isolated dynamic LVOT obstruction but may have isolated or additional fixed obstruction. Careful two-dimensional and Doppler echocardiography are needed to identify this subset of patients who are best treated surgically.
Radio Science measurements in presence of data on optical and RF links

Radio Science (RS) experiments currently rely on unmodulated CW RF signal carrier for spectral purity and maximized signal-to-noise ratio. This requires missions to carefully schedule them away from periods of high rate telemetry. In the era of optical communications, current systems experience the same problem. In this paper, we derive a data processing architecture that will yield high-accuracy RS or link science type of information on the ground from communication signals readily transmitted from space assets, in a broad range of communication frequencies, from RF to optical. This technique is intended to save power, bandwidth and scheduling demands on the spacecraft. Our proposed technical approach is applicable to a broad suite of modulations (phase and/or intensity), of receiver types (coherent and/or non- coherent), and carrier frequencies (e.g., microwave, optical), thus providing an architectural improvement to present state-of-the-art communication systems utilized by NASA as well as to future systems. This method is an additional module to the existing communication receiver architecture, and does not require modifications to their operation. We propose a practical system that approaches the ultimate theoretical performance for estimating the amplitude, phase, and frequency variations due to the changes in the planet atmosphere. For optical links with intensity modulated laser transmission or phase modulated CW laser communications the proposed optical receiver provides both data detection and signals required to extract RS data such as amplitude, phase and frequency due to planetary atmospheric changes. We can extract the same information required for RS data by using differential methods of encoding and at the optical receiver a local laser, a phase shifter, and an array of photon detectors are used.
Aortic Valve Replacement By Mini-Sternotomy

The introduction of the laparoscopic procedure, as well as later scope-based interventions by other surgical disciplines have resulted in the development of minimally invasive cardiac surgical procedures. These incisions are often foreign to traditional cardiac surgeons, but are now being increasingly used to approach aortic and/or mitral valves. Although important contributions in these areas continue to accrue almost daily, our group became convinced several years ago that access to the heart could be achieved by a modification of the traditional sternotomy, incorporating traditional cannulation techniques with a more limited exposure of the heart. Beginning in January 1996, we began performing pediatric heart operations through a partial division of the sternum, ie, only a portion of the sternum was divided in the midline. Owing to the flexibility of children’s tissues, the partially divided sternum could be stretched open with a retractor. In March 1996, we began performing aortic and mitral valve operations in adults through a similar upper sternal division. The rationale for this approach is simple: both the aortic and mitral valves are midline structures and both lie in a plane than can be best viewed obliquely from above the right shoulder. Furthermore, upper sternal division brings the surgeon directly down to the aorta and the right atrial appendage for cannulation of these traditional structures for venous return and arterial inflow. However, unlike children, the inflexible adult sternum was “T-ed” off at the second, third, o r fourth intercostal space in addition to dividing it in the midline. Although many terms can be used to describe these sternal divisions and many variations of the inverted T now exist (ie, the J, the reverse J, the L, the S, and the C, and many terms for this partial sternal division can now be found in the literature, such as hemisternotomy, partial sternotomy, limited sternotomy, and more), we coined the term mini-sternotomy (1994) to describe coronary artery bypass off-pump.” We have now had the opportunity to apply this technique to over 250 patients, but this report will limit itself to the first 110 patients who have had aortic valve procedures by mini-sternotomy. ( 6
A configurable logic architecture for dynamic hardware/software partitioning

In previous work, we showed the benefits and feasibility of having a processor dynamically partition its executing software such that critical software kernels are transparently partitioned to execute as a hardware coprocessor on configurable logic - an approach we call warp processing. The configurable logic place and route step is the most computationally intensive part of such hardware/software partitioning, normally running for many minutes or hours on powerful desktop processors. In contrast, dynamic partitioning requires place and route to execute in just seconds and on a lean embedded processor. We have therefore designed a configurable logic architecture specifically for dynamic hardware/software partitioning. Through experiments with popular benchmarks, we show that by specifically focusing on the goal of software kernel speedup when designing the FPGA architecture, rather than on the more general goal of ASIC prototyping, we can perform place and route for our architecture 50 times faster, using 10,000 times less data memory, and 1,000 times less code memory, than popular commercial tools mapping to commercial configurable logic. Yet, we show that we obtain speedups (2x on average, and as much as 4x) and energy savings (33% on average, and up to 74%) when partitioning even just one loop, which are comparable to commercial tools and fabrics. Thus, our configurable logic architecture represents a good candidate for platforms that will support dynamic hardware/software partitioning, and enables ultra-fast desktop tools for hardware/software partitioning, and even for fast configurable logic design in general.
Map Building from Human-Computer Interactions

On-line help from a human actor will be exploited to facilitate computer perception. This paper proposes an innovative real-time algorithm - running on an active vision head - to build 3D scene descriptions from human cues. The theory is supported by experimental results both for figure/ground segregation of typical heavy objects in a scene (such as furniture), and for 3D object/scene reconstruction.
Methodology for investigating the magnetization Process of the storage Layer in double-Layered perpendicular magnetic recording media using the anomalous Hall effect

The Hall effect is a useful phenomenon for evaluating the magnetization processes of the storage and back layers in double-layered perpendicular magnetic recording media. Although the Hall voltage in double-layered films has two components (an anomalous Hall term arising from the perpendicular component of magnetization and a planar Hall term originating from the in-plane component of magnetization), it is possible to separate the two contributions by symmetry arguments. However, in the case where the saturation field of the recording layer (RL) is comparable to that of the soft underlayer (SUL), or when the SUL dominates the signal because of its inherently high magnetic moment, it is difficult to separate the anomalous Hall effect (AHE) contributions from the RL and SUL individually. Here we propose a methodology that overcomes this limitation and allows the extraction of the magnetization process of the RL. We assume that an average perpendicular magnetization contributes to the anomalous Hall voltage in the double-layered perpendicular media. We compare the magnetization process of the RL obtained by using this approach to that measured with a magnetooptical Kerr effect (MOKE) system. The proposed technique may be useful in those situations in which alternative tools such as the MOKE system are not suitable for measuring the magnetization process.
Cytochrome c-553 is not required for photosynthetic activity in the cyanobacterium Synechococcus

In cyanobacteria, the water-soluble cytochrome c-553 functions as a mobile carrier of electrons between the membrane-bound cytochrome b6-f complex and P-700 reaction centers of Photosystem I. The structural gene for cytochrome c-553 (designated cytA) of the cyanobacterium Synechococcus sp. PCC 7942 was cloned, and the deduced amino acid sequence was shown to be similar to known cyanobacterial cytochrome c-553 proteins. A deletion mutant was constructed that had no detectable cytochrome c-553 based on spectral analyses and tetramethylbenzidine-hydrogen peroxide staining of proteins resolved by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The mutant strain was not impaired in overall photosynthetic activity. However, this mutant exhibited a decreased efficiency of cytochrome f oxidation. These results indicate that cytochrome c-553 is not an absolute requirement for reducing Photosystem I reaction centers in Synechococcus sp. PCC 7942.
Value Conflicts and Value Priorities: It’s Not Just About Religion

Social work ethics and values are the cornerstone of the profession and guide social work practice, education, and policy. Little research has examined the experience of conflict between personal values and professional ethics, or the beliefs of social workers about the prioritization of values within practice. This study explores whether social workers experience conflict between religious values and professional ethics and beliefs about the prioritization of religious values and professional roles. Overall participants reported little experience of value conflict and agreed that professional values supersede religious ones. The interaction of religiosity, political beliefs, primary work function, and sex are discussed.
Compensation effectiveness of an MLSE-EDC receiver as a function of signal quality

Experimental data is presented on the compensation effectiveness of MLSE-EDC as a function of BER and signal distortion for two modulation formats. We find the MLSE-EDC receiver shows significantly greater advantage for high BER regimes.
Computer vision system for identification, measurement, and duplication of machined parts

A strategy for identifying, measuring, and duplicating machined parts using an EOL (endpoint open loop), position based, visual servo robot is presented. The procedure is demonstrated using the representative, and commercially important, problem of duplicating keys for automobiles. The tasks to be completed for this application are: (1) identify the blank type of the original, (2) measure the unique cut pattern or `code' that activates the tumblers, (3) correct deviations, possibly due to wear, from manufacturer specified acceptable cut profiles, and (4) grind the duplicate. There are over three hundred blank types in use in the U.S. alone, each varying in length, width, groove pattern on each side, and outline of the handle. These variations are often subtle, making identification difficult, even for a human.© (1998) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
A comparison of borderline personality disorder with and without eating disorders

This study examines the degree to which an eating disorder (ED) is associated with the recurrence and severity of suicide attempts, non-suicidal self-injury, rates of co-occurring Axis I and II disorders, and psychosocial functioning among Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) outpatients. A group of 135 treatment-seeking women with BPD were assessed using structured clinical interviews. BPD was assessed using the International Personality Disorders Examination, confirmed by the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV (SCID)-II, and Axis I disorders were assessed with the SCID I. A total of 17.8% of the sample met criteria for a current ED, with 6.7% meeting criteria for Anorexia Nervosa (AN), 5.9% for Bulimia Nervosa (BN), and 5.2% for Binge-Eating Disorder (BED). In this BPD sample, in the last year, current BN was associated with a significantly greater risk of recurrent suicide attempts while current AN was associated with increased risk of recurrent non-suicidal self-injury. BPD with current AN or BED was associated with a greater number of non-ED current Axis I disorders. Further replication of these results is needed. Women with BPD must be assessed for AN and BN as these diagnoses may confer greater risk for suicidal and self-injurious behavior and may have to be prioritized in treatment.
Action of adenosine in estrogen-primed nonpregnant guinea pig myometrium: characterization of the smooth muscle receptor and coupling to phosphoinositide metabolism.

The smooth muscle of guinea pig uterus is contracted by adenosine in a manner consistent with the presence of a purine nucleoside receptor of the P1-A1 subtype that is uncoupled from adenylate cyclase. Here we investigate the signal transduction mechanism responsible for adenosine's ability to contract uterine smooth muscle. The A1 adenosine receptor antagonist \[3H]-8-cyclopentyl-1.3- dipropyl xanthine ([3H]CPX) bound reversibly to a large number (172 +/- 25 fmol/mg of protein) of receptors in myometrial smooth muscle membranes from estrogen-primed virgin guinea pigs with an affinity (KD = 1.77 +/- 0.21 nM) similar to that expected of [3H]CPX binding to both central and peripheral A1 receptors. In the absence of the stable GTP analog, guanosine-5'-O-[3-thiotriphosphate], agonist competition of [3H]CPX binding resulted in a biphasic curve that was best fit assuming the presence of equal populations of two affinity states of the receptor. Addition of guanosine-5'-O-[3-thiotriphosphate\] (10 microM) resulted in a monophasic competition curve of low affinity suggesting coupling of this A1 receptor to effector via a GTP binding protein. In [3H]myo-inositol labeled strips of myometrial smooth muscle, the adenosine agonist R-phenylisopropyl adenosine (R-PIA) stimulated the rapid formation of inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3) that was antagonized by addition of the nucleoside receptor antagonist 8-sulfophenyl theophylline. Prostaglandin stimulation of myometrial strips also increased InsP3 formation. Furthermore, R-PIA stimulated the disappearance of inositol phosphate (InsP) in a fashion consistent with agonist stimulation of an inositol phosphatase activity.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Flexible, Transparent Contacts for Inorganic Nanostructures and Thin Films

transparent, flexible contact is developed using Ni nanoparticles and Ag nanowires and demonstrated on free-standing, polymer embedded, Si microwire solar cells. Contact yields of over 99% and a series resistance of 14 Ω cm^2 are demonstrated.
INCREASE IN ACOUSTIC DETECTABILITY OF PLODIA INTERPUNCTELLA LARVAE AFTER LOW-ENERGY MICROWAVE RADAR EXPOSURE

Although pheromone traps (Mullen & Dowdy 2001) are available for detection and targeting of adult Plodia interpunctella (Hiibner) in warehouses and retail stores (Arbogast et al. 2000, 2002), larvae in packaged goods often escape notice and cause significant losses (Cox & Bell 1991). Acoustic methods have been developed to detect hidden larval infestations (e.g., Shuman et al. 1993), but the weak sounds produced by 3rd-4th instar P. interpunctella are difficult to detect through multiple layers of protective packaging. Heat treatments (Mankin et al. 1999) and electrical stimulation (Mankin 2002) have been shown to increase the activity and acoustic detectability of insect larvae, but such treatments currently have limited applicability. There is continued interest in identifying other stimuli that can increase the rate and amplitude of larval sounds during acoustic monitoring, thereby reducing the fraction of "false negatives," i.e., incorrect ratings of low likelihood of infestation in samples that actually contain insects. Low-energy microwave radiation is a potential, but largely unexplored, stimulus of larval activity, although high-energy radiation has been demonstrated to be a successful, but impractical treatment for control of stored-product insects (Nelson et al. 1997; Nelson & Stetson 1974). High-energy microwaves induce thermal heating (Mitcham et al. 2004). Because heat increases larval activity, microwave radar insect detectors, e.g., the Termatrac (Protecusa, Coral Gables, FL) (Tirkel et al. 1997), may have the capability to stimulate activity in exposed larvae. To explore this possibility, a study was conducted that combined microwave radar monitoring of P. interpunctella larvae with acoustic detection. The larvae were monitored for 180-s intervals with a Termatrac device by methods described in Mankin (2004) and their acoustic activity was monitored simultaneously with a piezoelectric sensor by methods described in Mankin (2002). The tests were conducted in a 50by 30by 15-cm pan to reflect the radiation internally within the test setup and maximize the larval radiation expo-