cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Aneuploidy and percentage of S-phase cells determined by flow cytometry correlate with cell phenotype in childhood acute leukemia

Cellular DNA content distributions of propidium-iodide-stained bone marrow blasts were determined by flow cytometry (FCM) for 225 untreated children with acute leukemia and were correlated with leukemia cell phenotype and karyotype. Aneuploidy of the primary malignant stem line was detected in 54 cases (24%): 51 hyperdiploid and 3 hypodiploid. A second stem line with approximately twice the DNA content of the primary stem line was recognized by FCM in 28 cases (23 ALL, 5 ANLL) and may be an important source of leukemia cell heterogeneity. The degree of DNA content abnormality detected by FCM was highly correlated (r = 0.98) with the number of whole chromosome gains or losses in the leukemia karyotype. Aneuploidy detectable by FCM was more frequent in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) (52 of 173, 30.1%) than in acute nonlymphoblastic leukemia (2 of 52, 3.8%) (p less than 0.001). In the ALL group, aneuploidy was significantly correlated with the cell surface expression of common ALL antigen: 46 of 127 antigen-positive cases were aneuploid compared to 6 of 46 antigen-negative cases (p less than 0.003). Only 2 of 21 cases of T-cell ALL without common ALL antigen had detectable aneuploidy, which was significantly less than in the common ALL group (p = 0.02). The median percentage of cells in S-phase was significantly greater for B-cell and erythrocyte rosette-positive T-cell ALL, than for the other phenotypic subgroups. We conclude that aneuploidy and S-phase cell percentage are correlated with the state of leukemia cell differentiation. The biologic basis for the correlation is not established, but may be linked to the process of malignant transformation.
Using programmer-written compiler extensions to catch security holes

This paper shows how system-specific static analysis can find security errors that violate rules such as "integers from untrusted sources must be sanitized before use" and "do not dereference user-supplied pointers." In our approach, programmers write system-specific extensions that are linked into the compiler and check their code for errors. We demonstrate the approach's effectiveness by using it to find over 100 security errors in Linux and OpenBSD, over 50 of which have led to kernel patches. An unusual feature of our approach is the use of methods to automatically detect when we miss code actions that should be checked.
The parabolic approximation method

This article has dealt with various aspects of parabolic approximation methods in underwater acoustics, mostly for propagation of sinusoidal signals. Extensions of these methods to time-dependent problems are also available: pulse propagation, moving sources and receivers, frequency shifting effects due to rapid temporal variations of oceanic conditions, and so forth. However, an adequate description of these extensions would require another long section and it was felt that the principles involved in making parabolic approximations have been sufficiently illustrated. Parabolic equation methods in underwater acoustics were developed only in the last few years, and as more and more use is made of these methods we may expect that many of the important modelling problems in ocean acoustics may be solved.
Kinetics of Proposed Gamma-Ray Lasers

Gamma-ray lasers, although proposed for many years, remain undeveloped because pumping can destroy conditions essential for gain. We review many of the solutions (viz., narrowed-1ine, explosive neutron pump, two-stage pump, two-step pump) proposed so far, with emphasis on kinetics. The most promising approach requires fast interlevel transfer from a separated isomer to initiate a superradiant Borrmann mode in a solid host. However, suitable nuclear transitions and nondestructive transfer mechanisms have yet to be identified.
The nature of autonomy

In both theoretical and applied contexts, the concept of autonomy has assumed increasing importance in recent normative philosophical discussion. Given various problems to be clarified or resolved, the author characterises the concept by first setting out conditions of adequacy. The author then links the notion of autonomy to the identification and critical reflection of an agent upon his or her first-order motivations. It is only when a person identifies with the influences that motivate him or her, assimilates them to himself or herself, that he or she is autonomous. In addition, this process of identification must itself meet certain procedural constraints. Keywords: individual autonomy; first and second order motivation; moral philosophy (Published: 3 July 2015) Citation: NordSTEP 2015, 1: 28479 - http://dx.doi.org/10.3402/nstep.v1.28479
On the Development of Prototypes and Preferences

Using a methodology previously established to investigate prototype development, the present study evaluated the hypothesis that prototypicality is the basis for aesthetic preference. Over the course of several sorting trials, subjects classified (with feedback) computer-generated random asterisk patterns (exemplars) into two categories, each of which represented a different predetermined prototype pattern. Subjects did not see the prototype patterns during this learning phase, but were exposed to them in a subsequent sorting test phase during which sorting speed and accuracy measures were taken for old exemplars, new exemplars and prototypes. Following this test phase, preference ratings for old exemplars, new exemplars and prototype patterns were obtained. Various indices of prototype development, reflecting sorting speed and accuracy of classification of test patterns, were derived for individual subjects. The results indicated that although overall “classic” prototype effects emerged for both latency ...
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Insurance Parity for Federal Employees: How Did Health Plans Respond?.

A fundamental concern with competitive health insurance markets is that they will not supply efficient levels of coverage for treatment of costly, chronic, and predictable illnesses, such as mental illness. Since the inception of employer-based health insurance, coverage for mental health services has been offered on a more limited basis than coverage for general medical services. While mental health advocates view insurance limits as evidence of discrimination, adverse selection and moral hazard can also explain these differences in coverage. The intent of parity regulation is to equalize private insurance coverage for mental and physical illness (an equity concern) and to eliminate wasteful forms of competition due to adverse selection (an efficiency concern). In 2001, a presidential directive requiring comprehensive parity was implemented in the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program. In this study, we examine how health plans responded to the parity directive. Results show that in comparison with a set of unaffected health plans, federal employee plans were significantly more likely to augment managed care through contracts with managed behavioral health “carve-out” firms after parity. This finding helps to explain the absence of an effect of the FEHB Program directive on total spending, and is relevant to the policy debate in Congress over federal parity. © 2008 by the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management
A Yeast Transcriptional Stimulatory Protein Similar to Human PC4

A yeast protein has been identified that stimulates basal transcription by RNA polymerase II, binds both single- and double-stranded DNA, and interacts with both a general transcription factor and a transcriptional activator. Phosphorylation appears to regulate these interactions. The gene for the transcriptional stimulatory protein, termed TSP1, was cloned and found to be dispensable for yeast cell viability. The deduced amino acid sequence is similar to that of mammalian coactivator protein PC4.
ROLLER-COMPACTED FIBER CONCRETE PAVEMENT FOUNDATION WITH RECYCLED AGGREGATE AND WASTE PLASTICS

A laboratory investigation was conducted to evaluate the performance of a moderate-strength roller-compacted concrete (RCC) made from reclaimed crushed concrete used as aggregate, Class C fly ash, and wasteplastic fibrous reinforcement. The motivation for evaluating this primarily waste composite is to develop a high-quality foundation layer for a conventional flexible or rigid pavement while attempting to address such crucial issues as the ever-increasing solid waste disposal problem, rapidly depleting landfill spaces, and conservation of natural resources. A summary is given of the findings of materials characterization studies with the following objectives: (a) to evaluate the effectiveness of recycled high-density polyethylene strips in stabilizing the tensile crack propagation through the brittle cementitious matrix; (b) to determine the strength and toughness characteristics of the composite; and (c) to suggest performance-based mixture design proportions for recycled aggregate, fly ash, cement, and...
Sum-capacity of a class of K-user Gaussian interference channels within O(K) bits

Though the capacity of the 2-user Gaussian interference channel has long eluded information theorists, recent progress has been made by focussing on approximations with provable bounds. However, extensions to a general K-user network has proven to be non-obvious, in particular due to the role of interference alignment in these cases. In this paper, we look at a special case of a K-user Gaussian interference network where only one of the users interferes with and is also interfered by all the other users. We determine the sum-capacity of such a network within O(K) bits for all possible values of the channel parameters, provided the direct signal is stronger than the receiver noise.
A generalized inverse solution to the discrete-time singular Riccati equation

A closed-form solution to the discrete-time singular Riccati equation is presented which is based on the Moore-Penrose matrix inverse. Applications to deadbeat control and stabilizability are discussed.
Mixed mode elastic-magnetostrictive wave propagation in a cubic media

A preliminary theoretical effort has provided a robust three dimensional energy based model of magnetostrictive wave propagation in a general cubic magnetostrictive material. Under high intensity impact we predict that the wave front will split between a higher velocity elastic precursor wave and a lower velocity, strongly dissipative, magnetostrictive shockwave. The wave front solution strongly depends on longitudinal pre-stress level and initial magnetization state. We may expect that a significant portion of the magnetostrictive wave deformation will be reversible under the application of well chosen field paths. In combination these technical characteristics therefore present an opportunity to develop magnetostriction based shock hyper-toughness in safety critical civil and military structures utilizing relatively shock tough magnetostrictive materials such as Terfenol-D particle based composites or homogenous Galfenol rods.
Failed Nissen fundoplication in two patients who had persistent vomiting and eosinophilic esophagitis

The following report describes two patients who had chronic symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux and persistent histological esophagitis, despite aggressive medical antireflux therapy, who continued to have esophagitis and remained symptomatic post antireflux surgery (Nissen fundoplication). Both patients demonstrated a severe eosinophilic esophagitis with normal gastric and duodenal histology before and after surgery. Postoperatively, each received the diagnosis of allergic enteritis and both responded clinically and histologically to oral corticosteroids and an elemental diet.
Cell-free translation analysis of messenger RNA in echinoderm and amphibian early development.

Abstract A wheat germ cell-free translation system has been used to analyze populations of abundant messenger RNA from sea urchin eggs and embryos and from amphibian oocytes and ovaries. We show directly that sea urchin eggs and embryos contain translatable mRNA of three general classes: poly(A)+ mRNA, poly(A)− histone mRNA, and poly(A)− nonhistone mRNA. Additionally, some histone synthesis appears to be promoted by poly(A)+ RNA. Sea urchin eggs seem to contain a higher proportion of prevalent poly(A)− nonhistone mRNAS than do embryos. Some differences in the proteins encoded by poly(A)+ and poly(A)− RNAs are detectable. Many coding sequences in the egg appear to be represented in both poly(A)+ and poly(A)− RNAs, since the translation products of the two RNA classes exhibit many common bands when run on one-dimensional polyacrylamide gels. However, some of this overlap is probably due to fortuitous comigration of nonidentical proteins. Distinct stage-specific changes in the spectra of prevalent translatable mRNAs of all three classes occur, although many mRNAs are detectable throughout early development. Particularly striking is the presence of an egg poly(A)− mRNA, encoding a 70,000–80,000 molecular weight protein, which is not detected in morula or later-stage embryos. In amphibian (Xenopus laevis and Triturus viridescens) ovary RNA, the translation assay detects the following three mRNA classes: poly(A)+ nonhistone mRNA, poly(A)− histone mRNA, and poly(A)+ histone mRNA. Amphibian ovary RNA appearently lacks an abundant poly(A)− nonhistone mRNA component of the magnitude detectable in sea urchin eggs. mRNA encoding histone-like proteins is found in the very earliest (small stage 1) oocytes of Xenopus as well as in later stage oocytes. During oogenesis there appear to be no striking qualitative changes in the spectra of prevalent translatable mRNAs which are detected by the cell-free translation assay.
Suitability of controlled release delivery system for root canal disinfection.

Abstract The purpose of the present study was to assess the bacteriologic status of the root canal after disinfection with a quaternary ammonium compound in a controlled release system. Root canal infection was induced in 57 single root teeth in dogs. The canals were then instrumented under aseptic conditions and irrigated with sodium hypochlorite and sterile saline. After the instrumentation, 10 canals were treated with the quaternary ammonium compound in the controlled release system, 9 canals with the quaternary ammonium compound on a cotton pellet, 10 canals with formocresol, 10 canals with a paste of calcium hydroxide. In 18 canals, no intracanal medicament was used. Bacteriologic samples were taken after 14 days using an anaerobic technique. The results indicated that the quaternary ammonium compound in the controlled release system was as effective as formocresol and calcium hydroxide in rendering the root canal free of bacteria. The advantages of an antiseptic with a long-lasting effect for the elimination of bacteria from the root canal and for the prevention of culture reversals were stressed.
CRYOGENIC COOLING USING TUNNELING STRUCTURES WITH SHARP ENERGY FEATURES

Thermoelectric cooling, based upon the extraction of hot electrons and holes from a metallic electron gas, holds unrealized potential for refrigeration at cryogenic temperatures. We discuss the performance of two such electronic refrigerators: the quantum-dot refrigerator (QDR) and the normal-insulator-superconductor (NIS) refrigerator. We obtain the QDR base temperature using a numerical simulation and verify the validity of certain simplifying assumptions which allow refrigerating performance to be summarized on a diagram of ambient temperature versus electronic temperature. In this way, we find that the best refrigeration is obtained with the electronic distribution far from the equilibrium Fermi-Dirac function and the temperature reduction achieved is limited by the rate at which phonons are absorbed. We predict that, with sufficient thermal isolation, electronic devices could be cooled to a small fraction of the ambient temperature using these solid-state refrigerators. The NIS refrigerator should be capable of cooling thin-film devices from above 300 mK to below 100 mK; the QDR will cool macroscopic metallic samples in the \ensuremath{\mu}K or nK range. We also discuss topics related to thermoelectric refrigeration including other cryogenic thermoelectric cooling schemes, the validity of the linear-response theory of thermoelectric effects, the refrigerating efficiency of an optimized thermoelectric refrigerator, and the overall cooling power of thermoelectric refrigeration.
Unusual steric course of aldosterone reduction in the bullfrog in vivo.

Abstract The major pathway of aldosterone metabolism in the bullfrog in vivo results in the reduction of ring A to yield the unusual isomer, 3β-hydroxy-5β-tetrahydroaldosterone (I). The metabolite was isolated from bullfrog urine following the injection of aldosterone. Identification was accomplished by infrared spectroscopic comparison of the etiolactone derivatives of metabolite and synthesized steroid. The 3β-hydroxy-5β-etiolactone (II) was prepared by catalytic hydrogenation of aldosterone etiolactone which also yielded the 3β,5α isomer (V) and smaller amounts of the 3α,5β isomer (IV).
Targeting of the Hedgehog signal transduction pathway suppresses survival of malignant pleural mesothelioma cells in vitro

Objective: The present study sought to determine whether the Hedgehog (Hh) pathway is active and regulates the cell growth of cultured malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) cells and to evaluate the efficacy of pathway blockade using smoothened (SMO) antagonists (SMO inhibitor GDC-0449 or the antifungal drug itraconazole [ITRA]) or Gli inhibitors (GANT61 or the antileukemia drug arsenic trioxide [ATO]) in suppressing MPM viability. Methods: Selective knockdown of SMO to inhibit Hh signaling was achieved by small interfering RNA in 3 representative MPM cells. The growth inhibitory effect of GDC-0449, ITRA, GANT61, and ATO was evaluated in 8 MPM lines, with cell viability quantified using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Cell death was determined by annexinV/propidium iodide staining and flow cytometry. Results: SMO small interfering RNA mediated a two- to more than fivefold reduction of SMO and Gli1 gene expression as determined by real-time quantitative reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, indicating significant Hh pathway blockade. This was associated with significantly reduced cell viability (34% � 7% to 61% � 14% of nontarget small interfering RNA controls; P ¼ .0024 to P ¼ .043). Treating MPM cells with Hh inhibitors resulted in a 1.5- to 4-fold reduction of Gli1 expression. These 4 Hh antagonists strongly suppressed MPM cell viability. More importantly, ITRA, ATO, GANT61 induced significant apoptosis in the representative MPM cells. Conclusions: Hh signaling is active in MPM and regulates cell viability. ATO and ITRAwere as effective as the prototypic SMO inhibitor GDC-0449 and the Gli inhibitor GANT61 in suppressing Hh signaling in MPM cells. Pharmaceutical agents Food and Drug Administration‐approved for other indications but recently found to have anti-Hh activity, such as ATO or ITRA, could be repurposed to treat MPM. (J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2014;147:508-16)
Wear and scratch hardness of 304 stainless steel investigated with a single scratch test

Abstract The wear and scratch hardness of 304 stainless steel was investigated with a scratch test developed by the US Bureau of Mines. The scratch was produced by a diamond indenter with a 0.2-mm spherical tip in air and in a corrosive environment. Scratch hardness was calculated from the width of the scratch and was correlated with Vickers hardness. Wear was measured by integrating the area between the profile of the scratch and the original surface. At low loads wear occurs in a rubbing mode. At higher loads wear debris was formed. The transition from rubbing wear to wear with a continuous formation of debris occurred at a critical value of the attack angle. A relationship between the attack angle, the radius of the tip of the scratcher, the load on the scratcher, and the hardness of the material is presented. Stainless steel was scratched at an anodic potential (with a passive film on the surface) and at a cathodic potential (with no passive film on the surface). The presence or absence of the passive film had no effect on the scratch hardness or wear for either the rubbing mode or the mode of wear with debris. The interface shear strength was not affected by the change in potential.
Justice on whose terms? A critique of international criminal justice responses to conflict-related sexual violence

Synopsis This article argues that the international criminal justice system fails to sufficiently address conflict-related sexual violence in two critical ways: [1] by advocating a pro-prosecution, “end impunity” approach (defined as holding perpetrators accountable through criminal, civil, administrative or disciplinary proceedings) which applies the prevailing Euro-American model of justice designed to prosecute one man for the rape of one woman to post-conflict zones where widespread sexual violence occurred, and [2] by identifying conflict and post-conflict zones as both discursive and practical sites of pathology that require intervention by elites who strongly identify with a Euro-American liberal individualistic vision of justice. We argue that the international community can no longer conveniently refuse to address the inequalities characterizing the international criminal justice system, in which a tiny minority of self-congratulatory elites uses the noble principles of human rights and justice to advance an agenda that works in their own best interests. To explore possible alternatives to a prosecution-centered approach to conflict-related sexual violence, we employ two African case study examples of community-led gender justice initiatives that have successfully shifted legal discourse while simultaneously transforming wider cultural frameworks.
Necrotizing soft tissue infection.

Abstract Background: Necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTIs) continue to pose major problems in diagnosis and management. Methods: Review of the pertinent English-language literature. Results: A high index of suspicion and good clinical judgment should be used in conjunction with laboratory and imaging studies in appropriate cases to establish the diagnosis as rapidly as possible. Successful treatment requires early, aggressive surgical debridement of all necrotic tissue, appropriate systemic antibiotic therapy, and supportive care to maintain oxygenation and tissue perfusion. Conclusions: The mortality rate of necrotizing soft tissue infection remains approximately 25% despite optimal care. Delayed definitive debridement remains the single most important risk factor for death.
Elemental Status in Sediment and American Oyster Collected from Savannah Marsh/Estuarine Ecosystem: A Preliminary Assessment

Sediment and American oyster (Crassostrea virginica) collected from nine selected marsh/estuarine ecosystems in Savannah, Georgia were analyzed for elements such as Al, As, B, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Si, and Zn. Sediments were extracted by ammonium acetate (NH4OAc), Mehlich-3 (M-3), and water procedures, whereas an acid digestion procedure was adopted for oyster tissue. Concentrations of elements were higher in M-3 extractions followed by NH4OAc and water extraction procedures. Calcium and Mg was greater in sediments by any of the extractions, whereas other elements differed depending upon the extraction procedures. There were no significant spatial variations (p < 0.05) of any of elements analyzed except Mn, in NH4OAc/water extraction procedure and Fe and Al by water extraction procedure. Contamination of Al, B, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Si, and Zn in oyster tissue ranged from 399 to 1460, 231 to 254, <1.5 to 2.9, <1.5 to 8.0, 67 to 121, 232 to 1357, 17 to 54, <0.5 to 0.64, <1.5 to 2.5, <1.5 to 4.0, 241 to 381, and 978 to 2428 μg/g dry weight (dw), respectively. Greatly elevated concentrations of elements such as P, Ca, Mg, K, and S were noticed in oyster tissue. The concentration range of Hg and As in sediment was 1.2–1.9 and 11–55 μg/g dw, respectively. The concentration range of Hg and As in oyster tissue was 130–908 and 200–912 ng/g dw, respectively. With the exception of As and Hg, other elements are several orders of magnitude greater in oyster tissue. There is no significant (p < 0.05) contamination variation in target analyses between the nine selected sites. Concentrations of heavy metals in sediment and oyster were either comparable or lower than those of other countries. Greater biota-sediment accumulation factor was noticed for P and Zn. Concentrations of Hg and P in oyster tissue were higher than the threshold limit for human consumption. Overall, the baseline data can be used for regular ecological monitoring, considering the domestic and industrial growth around this important marsh/estuarine ecosystem.
Apolipoprotein E Status is Associated with Odor Identification Deficits in Nondemented Older Personsa

Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients with moderate dementia show losses in olfactory threshold, odor identification and odor memory. Sensitivity and specificity of olfactory testing is significant, with the greatest power of accurate diagnosis in the more cognitively loaded olfactory tasks. In patients with very mild AD or in patients at risk for the disease because of their mild cognitive impairment, losses are apparent for odor identification, odor recognition memory and odor threshold, with the best sensitivity in the identification task. Persons who are either heterozygous or homozygous for the epsilon 4 allele of apolipoprotein E (ApoE) have an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease, although they show no dementia in the preclinical period. Evidence of olfactory dysfunction in this population might be reflective of an incipient dementing process. We have recently examined olfactory function in a group of normal elderly persons who have undergone genetic testing for the Apoe4 allele. These individuals consisted of all normal control subjects at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (ADRC) who had undergone both the genetic testing and testing for olfactory function. All had been diagnosed as normal control participants by two different neurologists who applied the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke and the Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders Association (NINDS-ADRDA) criteria for dementia. Persons with a history of alcoholism, drug abuse, learning disability or neurologic or psychiatric illness (including depression) were excluded. In this population, persons with the Apoe4 allele showed significantly poorer odor identification than those without an epsilon 4 allele. Early appearance of olfactory deficits in the progression to AD in persons with the epsilon 4 allele suggests diagnostic utility in olfactory testing.
PERMANENT PACING FROM THE CORONARY SINUS IN A PATIENT WITH AN IMPLANTABLE DEFIBRILLATOR

A woman with an ICD underwent permanent pacemaker implantation for bradycardia-tachycardia syndrome. Despite multiple right atrial positions, oversensing secondary to "double counting" was always noted. A coronary sinus pacing catheter was inserted and left atrial pacing was accomplished with acceptable pacing and sensing characteristics. The patient has since done well without further shocks.
Methanol bioconversion by Butyribacterium methylotrophicum—batch fermentation yield and kinetics

Butyribacterium methylotrophicum is an anaerobic bacterium that can convert methanol to butyrate. This ability to produce longer-chain carbon compounds from C(1) substrates could be of commercial significance. The fermentation rates and product formation depend on the methanol/bicarbonate ratios during fermentation. The kinetics of batch fermentation fit the Luedeking-Piret model with growth and maintenance associated product formation. Butyrate yield of 0.256 mol/mol methanol (ca. 85% of theoretical yield) has been obtained in batch fermentation.
Presence of β-mercaptoethanol can increase the glutathione content of pig oocytes matured in vitro and the rate of blastocyst development after in vitro fertilization

The present study examined the effect of beta-mercaptoethanol (BME) during in vitro maturation (IVM) of pig oocytes on in vitro fertilization (IVF) parameters, intracellular glutathione (GSH) concentration, subsequent embryo development and blastocyst cell numbers. Cumulus-oocyte complexes were cultured in North Carolina State University (NCSU)-23 medium containing porcine follicular fluid, cysteine, hormonal supplements and 0 to 50 microM BME for 20 to 22 h. They were then cultured in the same medium but without hormonal supplements for an additional 20 to 22 h. After culture, cumulus-free oocytes were coincubated with frozen-thawed spermatozoa for 5 to 6 h. Putative embryos were transferred to NCSU-23 containing 0.4% BSA and cultured for 144 h (Experiment 1). In comparisons between the presence or absence of BME, no differences were observed in fertilization parameters. At 48 h, no mean differences were found in cleavage rates. However, at 144 h, compared with no addition (26%), the presence of 12.5 and 25 microM BME increased (P < 0.05) the proportion of blastocysts in a dose-dependent manner (34 and 41%). Further increase from 25 to 50 microM BME reduced (P < 0.05) the blastocyst development rate. Blastocysts derived from oocytes matured with 25 microM BME had the highest (P < 0.05) trophectoderm (TE) and total cell numbers. No difference was found in inner cell mass (ICM) cells among treatments. In Experiment 2, after IVM, oocytes were fixed to analyze the GSH concentration. Compared to no addition, a higher (P < 0.01) level of GSH was found in oocytes matured with 25 microM BME. Compared with 25 microM BME, GSH was low (P < 0.05) at 50 microM BME. The results show that at certain concentrations BME in IVM medium has beneficial effects on subsequent embryo development, and is correlated with intracellular GSH level in pig oocytes.
Assignment of an oligomycin-resistance locus to human chromosome 10

An oligomycin-resistant variant of human fibrosarcoma HT1080 was isolated and characterized as nuclear and codominant. The mutant was stable, was not cross-resistant to respiratory inhibitors, and it contained a mitochondrial ATPase which was less sensitive to oligomycin. Hybrids formed between the human mutant and a mouse cell line expressed the resistance phenotype. By a detailed karyotypic analysis of these hybrids using trypsin-Giemsa banding it was found that resistance to oligomycin correlated with the retention of two human chromosomes 10. The hybrid lines contained only mouse mitochondrial DNA as shown by analyses of mitochondrially synthesized proteins and mitochondrial DNA. The study assigns an ATPase oligomycin-resistance locus to human chromosome 10 and suggests that mouse and human subunits can combine in a functional enzyme complex.
Effect of minor and major tranquilizers on somatosensory evoked potentials.

Two major questions were asked in this study involving 3 comparable groups of ten healthy normal volunteers: first, whether it is possible to differentiate between the effect of orally administered single doses of placebo, minor and major tranquilizers utilizing quantitatively analyzed SEP's, and, second, whether or not one can classify, based on previously established drug profiles, the clinical effectiveness of a new compound. Placebo did not produce any relevant or significant alterations of the SEP pattern. Thirty-five mg of chlordiazepoxide induced a significant latency increase of peaks in the early part as well as a decrease in the late part of the secondary response. Concerning the amplitude measurements, a decrease in all peaks was observed, reaching a level of statistical significance in the late response. Five mg of diazepam produced similar changes, which, however, reached a level of statistical significance only in the amplitudes. In contrast to minor tranquilizers, 50 mg chlorpromazine prolonged the latency of all peaks; the later the peaks, the greater were the changes. The amplitudes were attenuated significantly in the late response, but showed a tendency to increase in the primary response. After determination of the drug profiles of these clinically known psychotropic drugs, the effects on the SEP of the new compound, SCH-12,041 were investigated. Based on the latency increase of the early part and latency decrease of the late part of the secondary response, as well as the decrease in amplitude, it was suggested that this new compound will act similar to chlordiazepoxide which was confirmed by clinical trials. The significance of the findings will be discussed.
On solar ponds: Critique, physical fundamentals and engineering aspects

Abstract The following article reviews previous ideas and works on solar ponds, evaluates the effect of several design parameters on the pond performance and lists construction and operational suggestions for the successful performance of solar ponds.
Apache commits: Social network dataset

Building non-trivial software is a social endeavor. Therefore, understanding the social network of developers is key to the study of software development organizations. We present a graph representation of the commit behavior of developers within the Apache Software Foundation for 2010 and 2011. Relationships between developers in the network represent collaborative commit behavior. Several similarity and summary metrics have been pre-calculated. The data, along with the tools that were used to create it and some further discussion, can be found at: http://sequoia.cs.byu.edu/lab/?page=artifacts/apacheGraphs.
Differential involvement of amygdala corticosteroid receptors in visceral hyperalgesia following acute or repeated stress.

Symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are exacerbated by stress. Previously, we demonstrated that the stress hormone corticosterone applied directly to the amygdala induced visceral hypersensi...
Effects of Asp-369 and Arg-372 mutations on heme environment and function in human endothelial nitric-oxide synthase

Eight polar amino acid residues in the putative substrate-binding region from Thr-360 to Val-379 in human endothelial nitric-oxide synthase (eNOS) (Thr-360, Arg-365, Cys-368, Asp-369, Arg-372, Tyr-373, Glu-377, and Asp-378) were individually mutated. Only two of these residues, Asp-369 and Arg-372, were found to be essential for enzyme activity. A further series of mutants was generated by replacing these two residues with various amino acids and the mutant proteins were expressed in a baculovirus system. Mutant eNOS had a very low L-citrulline formation activity with the exception of D369E and R372K, which retained 27% and 44% of the wild-type enzyme activity, respectively. Unlike the wild-type enzyme, all mutants except D369E, R372K, and R372M had a low spin heme (Soret peak at 416 nm). All the Asp-369 mutants had higher Kd values for L-arginine (1-10 mM) than wild-type eNOS (0.4 microM) and an unstable heme-CO complex, and except for D369E, had a very low (6R)-5,6,7, 8-tetrahydro-L-biopterin (BH4) content. In contrast, each of Arg-372 mutants retained a considerable amount of BH4, had a moderate reduction in L-arginine affinity, and had a more stable heme-CO complex. 1-Phenylimidazole did not bind to wild-type eNOS heme, but bound to all Asp-369 and Arg-372 mutants (Kd ranged from 10 to 65 microM) except R372K. Heme spin-state changes caused by binding of 3, 5-lutidine appeared to depend on both charge and size of the side chains of residues 369 and 372. Furthermore, all Asp-369 and Arg-372 mutants were defective in dimer formation. These results suggest that residues Asp-369 and Arg-372 in eNOS play a critical role in oxygenase domain active-site structure and activity.
Helmholtz Absorbers: Experiments in Controlling Resonant Pulsation Without the Use of Orifice Plates

Pressure drop has been used for more than half a century to control resonant pulsation in reciprocating compressor piping. Although avoiding these resonances is the preferred method, this is not possible in many high-speed/variable-speed installations. In these cases, resonant pulsation is often managed by using orifice plates to dampen the response. Helmholtz absorbers are an old technology, used to improve the acoustics of ancient Greek theaters and modern recording studios alike. Although their application in the field of piping acoustics has been well documented, this paper presents new ways in which they have not yet been applied. In this paper, experimental data is shown for a self-tuning Helmholtz absorber, or Side Branch Absorber (SBA) used to cancel a piping length resonance, and for a Virtual Orifice that is used to reduce cylinder nozzle pulsation. These devices open up new doors for controlling pulsation with reduced horsepower costs in reciprocating compressor installations.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) reduces acetylcholinesterase activity in rat muscle

A single dose (200 mg/kg body weight, i.p.) of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), commonly used as a herbicide, caused significant decreases in acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity in diaphragm and other muscles of the rat. The 4S, 10S, and 16S forms of AChE were affected. The effect was maximal 15 to 24 h after injection. Choline acetyltransferase (CAT) activity was not affected. Neither AChE nor CAT activities changed in sciatic nerve from 2,4-D-treated animals. Spontaneous locomotor activity decreased dramatically 4 h after 2,4-D treatment. Myotonia that was present 1.5 h after 2,4-D injection became maximal at 2 to 6 h. Twenty-four hours after drug injection, when animals were recovering from myotonia, spontaneous locomotor activity was still depressed to 50% of control values. Prolonged distal motor latencies were observed 15 to 24 h after drug administration. AChE activity and spontaneous locomotor activity returned to control values at 48 h. Thus, 2,4-D causes a decrement of end-plate AChE, as well as behavioral and electrophysiologic changes. Decreased activity of AChE may be an early step in development of the myopathy that occurs after large dose 2,4-D.
The Marysvale Natural Analog Study: Preliminary oxygen isotope relations

Rocks of and around the Marysvale mining area in central Utah, U.S.A., have experienced massive, subsolidus hydrothermal exchange with heated meteoric waters. Plutonic granitic rocks in the central mining area have δ18O-values ranging from 6.7‰ to as low as +0.1‰. Quartz monzonite samples from surface exposures have, on the average (x = +2.9‰), lower δ18O-values than subsurface samples (x = +4.3‰). Within the limitations of present data, 18O depletions of the intrusive rocks are not obviously correlated to proximity of known major fractures. The δ18O data are consistent with hydrothermal modifications of normal igneous rocks, initially ∼ +7‰ by groundwater initially of −14‰ at temperatures on the order of 200°C. Preliminary estimates of integrated water/rock ratios range from <0.1 to ∼ 1 for plutonic rocks. The hydrothermal solutions responsible for the mineralization were derived from meteoric water. Samples immediately adjacent to a quartz monzonite—granite contact show symmetrical 18O depletion which may indicate that the contact was a feature allowing greater flow and/or residence time of the hydrothermal solution, and that the hydrothermal event apparently postdates granite emplacement.
Interannual Variability and Seasonal Climate Predictability

Abstract A twenty-year integration of an atmospheric general circulation model with identically evolving prescribed surface boundary conditions each year is employed to provide a measure of the interannual variability obtainable from internal atmospheric dynamics alone. In particular, the variability of seasonal mean sea level pressure and 700-mb geopotential height is considered by means of a sampled climate ensemble approach. This model-generated internal dynamics variability is assumed to be identical to that resulting from the real atmosphere if it operated without anomalous boundary conditions and is considered unpredictable since the time scales involved are beyond the traditional limits of deterministic predictability. By means of objective statistical tests, sampled model variances for these fields are compared to sampled variances of observed seasonal means (which have contributions from anomalous boundary conditions as well) for all four seasons in order to ascertain if, in an infinite populatio...
Multifunctional Nanoparticles Delivering Small Interfering RNA and Doxorubicin Overcome Drug Resistance in Cancer

Drug resistance is a major challenge to the effective treatment of cancer. We have developed two nanoparticle formulations, cationic liposome-polycation-DNA (LPD) and anionic liposome-polycation-DNA (LPD-II), for systemic co-delivery of doxorubicin (Dox) and a therapeutic small interfering RNA (siRNA) to multiple drug resistance (MDR) tumors. In this study, we have provided four strategies to overcome drug resistance. First, we formed the LPD nanoparticles with a guanidinium-containing cationic lipid, i.e. N,N-distearyl-N-methyl-N-2-(N′-arginyl) aminoethyl ammonium chloride, which can induce reactive oxygen species, down-regulate MDR transporter expression, and increase Dox uptake. Second, to block angiogenesis and increase drug penetration, we have further formulated LPD nanoparticles to co-deliver vascular endothelial growth factor siRNA and Dox. An enhanced Dox uptake and a therapeutic effect were observed when combined with vascular endothelial growth factor siRNA in the nanoparticles. Third, to avoid P-glycoprotein-mediated drug efflux, we further designed another delivery vehicle, LPD-II, which showed much higher entrapment efficiency of Dox than LPD. Finally, we delivered a therapeutic siRNA to inhibit MDR transporter. We demonstrated the first evidence of c-Myc siRNA delivered by the LPD-II nanoparticles down-regulating MDR expression and increasing Dox uptake in vivo. Three daily intravenous injections of therapeutic siRNA and Dox (1.2 mg/kg) co-formulated in either LPD or LPD-II nanoparticles showed a significant improvement in tumor growth inhibition. This study highlights a potential clinical use for the multifunctional nanoparticles with an effective delivery property and a function to overcome drug resistance in cancer. The activity and the toxicity of LPD- and LPD-II-mediated therapy are compared.
A procedure for turbulent structure convection velocity measurements using time-correlated images

This paper describes the development of a technique used to determine the convection velocity of large-scale turbulent structures captured in time-correlated images. The crux of the procedure centers on a cross-correlation routine that is used to determine the convection distance of eddies during the time separation between the image acquisitions. The convection velocity is then estimated as the convection distance divided by the time separation of the image-pair. This cross-correlation routine is capable of analyzing very large data sets in a completely automated manner, thereby improving the accuracy and objectivity of the results over manual or partially automated procedures. Guidelines for optimizing the experimental and computational components of this technique are also presented.
In search of connection: The foster youth and caregiver relationship.

Abstract Placement instability is an ongoing challenge for the 125,000 foster youth aged 14–18 that are living in foster care, with youth living in approximately 3 placements before aging out of the system. Despite the importance caring adult relationships can play in promoting positive youth development and resiliency, there has been limited inquiry into the characteristics of the foster youth and caregiver relationship. The goal of this paper is to provide a descriptive account of the foster youth and caregiver relationship, and explore what qualities and experiences foster youth desire from their caregivers. Qualitative data were gathered from 9 focus groups. Data were analyzed using thematic content analysis approaches. Foster youth, caregivers, and child welfare staff described relationships lacking in formative bonds and connection, where youth didn't “fit in”, and chaotic homes marked by reactivity and judgment. Characteristics of supportive foster homes include a sense of belonging, structure, guidance, and consistency. This research underscores the important role positive relationships can play in foster youth's feelings of well-being and points to the need for foster parent training to include tangible strategies to develop stronger bonds.
Failed empathy ― A central theme in the survivor's Holocaust experience

In this article, we concern ourselves with massive traumatic events deliberately inflicted on individuals by fellow human beings. Specifically, we focus on the Holocaust and the fact that massive failure of the environment to mediate needs, as in genocide, will throw into question the existence of empathy, human communication, and ultimately one's own humanity, to which any mirroring ceases to exist. Such a life experience will represent, to the survivor of trauma, failure of a responsive empathic agent or function. Because it is precisely representations of need-satisfying interactions that provide the basis for links between personal existence and social connectedness, undermining the individual's representation of the need-mediating context will deconstruct the link between self and other. Destruction of the victim's representational matrix of interpersonal relatedness results in a vulnerability and loneliness in his or her internal world representation which is the sine qua non of man-made trauma.
Microwave thermal balloon angioplasty in the atherosclerotic rabbit

We evaluated the angiographic and histologic response of the coronary vessels of the atherosclerotic rabbit to microwave thermal balloon angioplasty. Sixteen rabbits with atherosclerosis of the external iliac arteries following a high fat diet and endothelial denudation were treated with either CBA or MBA. Four weeks following angioplasty angiography was repeated, and following the death of the animals, the vessels treated were excised for histologic evaluation. In vessels with MBA with peak temperatures of 85° C there was an increase in luminal diameter immediately postangioplasty, from 1.66 ± 0.32 mm to 2.54 ± 0.23 mm (p < 0.05). The diameter at 4 weeks (2.29 ± 0.74 mm) remained increased compared with the postangioplasty diameter (p < 0.05). With microwave angioplasty at 70° C there was an increase in luminal diameter, from 1.92 ± 0.37 mm to 2.40 ± 0.22 mm (p < 0.05) immediately postangioplasty. This increase in diameter was not sustained at 4 weeks (1.86 ± 0.28 mm). In the vessels treated with CBA there was no significant increase in diameter noted either immediately postangioplasty or at 4 weeks postangioplasty. In the thermally treated vessels, histologic evaluation revealed a loss of lipid-laden cells; it also revealed the formation of a concentric hypocellular fibrotic layer. Microwave thermal balloon angioplasty at 85° C results in enhancement of the immediate and delayed response to angioplasty. Modification of the proliferative response to angioplasty may be accomplished with this modality.