cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Theoretical and experimental studies of anisotropic shrinkage in injection moldings of various polyesters

A novel approach to predict anisotropic shrinkage of slow crystallizing polymers in injection moldings was proposed, using the flow-induced crystallization, frozen-in molecular orientation, elastic recovery, and PVT equation of state. In the present study, three different polyesters, polyethylene terephthalate, polybutylene terephthalate, and polyethylene-2,6-naphthalate (PEN), are used. The anisotropic thermal expansion and compressibility affected by the frozen-in orientation function and the elastic recovery that was not frozen during moldings were introduced to obtain the in-plane anisotropic shrinkages. The frozen-in orientation function was calculated from the amorphous contribution based on the frozen-in and intrinsic amorphous birefringence and crystalline contribution based on the crystalline orientation function determined from the elastic recovery and intrinsic crystalline birefringence. To model the elastic recovery and frozen-in stresses related to birefringence during molding process, a nonlinear viscoelastic constitutive equation was used with the temperature-dependent viscosity and relaxation time. Occurrence of the flow-induced crystallization was introduced through the elevation of melting temperature affected by entropy production during flow of the viscoelastic melt. Kinetics of the crystallization was modeled using Nakamura and Hoffman-Lauritzen equations with the rate constant affected by the elevated melting temperature. Numerous injection molding runs were carried out by varying the packing time, packing pressure, flow rate, melt and mold temperature, and anisotropic shrinkage of moldings were measured. The experimental results were compared with the simulated data and found in a fair agreement. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 102: 3526–3544, 2006
Magnetic coupling of two-dimensional pancake vortex lattices in a finite stack of thin superconducting films with transport currents in the two outermost layers

We give a detailed study of the magnetic coupling between two-dimensional (2D) pancake vortices in a stack of N Josephson-decoupled superconducting thin films. The problem of a single pancake vortex in a finite stack of layers is first considered. We then investigate the magnetic interaction between 2D pancake lattices residing in different layers. It is assumed that all these 2D lattices have the same structure and orientation, although it is not required that they be in perfect registry. We derive an analytical solution for the coupling force on a pancake in a lattice arising from its interaction with a vortex lattice in another layer. As a direct application of this solution, we consider the case wherein a magnetic field is applied perpendicular to the layers and equal but oppositely directed surface current densities are introduced into the top and bottom layers, respectively. For weak currents, force-balanced configurations of pancake vortices are obtained. We then show the existence of a decoupling surface current density. Above this critical value, slippage occurs between 2D pancake lattices in different layers. This decoupling surface current density is then calculated for different magnetic fields and for different values of N.
Teaching civic engagement: Evaluating an integrative service-learning program

The demands on successfully teaching intervention skills in macro (community) environments are numerous and extend beyond the confines of any one academic discipline. In particular, when considering community, the compounding of the multiple factors of social economics, diversity, social policy, history and political agendas requires an integrative approach. This mixed-methods retrospective article analyses the use of service-learning in an advanced Master of Social Work community practice course. Special attention is given to the construction of academic and community experience that facilitates learning integration and understanding of the ways in which factors compound on community wellbeing. Specifically this project involved students in efforts constructed to address violence directed by and against inner-city youth in a mid-sized northeastern city in the United States that is beset with gang violence and has led its state in per capita murders for four of the past five years. Recommendations and lessons learned presented in this article are directed at exploring a construction of service-learning that could address integrative learning in community intervention courses. Keywords: Service-learning, teaching, macro practice, violence
Low-magnitude mechanical loading becomes osteogenic when rest is inserted between each load cycle.

Strategies to counteract bone loss with exercise have had fairly limited success, particularly those regimens subjecting the skeleton to mild activity such as walking. In contrast, here we show that it is possible to induce substantial bone formation with low-magnitude loading. In two distinct in vivo models of bone adaptation, we found that insertion of a 10-s rest interval between each load cycle transformed a locomotion-like loading regime that minimally influenced osteoblast activity into a potent anabolic stimulus. In the avian ulna model, the minimal mean (+SE) periosteal labeled surface (Ps.LS) observed in the intact contralateral bones (1.6 ± 1.5%) was doubled after 3 consecutive days of low-magnitude loading (3.8 ± 1.5%; p = 0.03). However, modifying the regimen by inserting 10 s of rest between each load cycle significantly enhanced the periosteal response (21.9 + 4.5%; p = 0.03). In the murine tibia model, 5 consecutive days of 100 low-magnitude loading cycles did not significantly alter mean periosteal bone formation rate (BFR) compared with contralateral bones (0.011 ± 0.005 μm3/μm2 per day vs. 0.021 ± 0.013 μm3/μm2 per day). In contrast, separating each of 10 of the same loading cycles with 10 s of rest significantly elevated periosteal BFR (0.167 ± 0.049 μm3/μm2 per day; p = 0.01). Endocortical bone formation parameters were not altered by any loading regimen in either model. We conclude that 10 s of rest between each load cycle of a low-magnitude loading protocol greatly enhances the osteogenic potential of the regimen.
The Impact of Specifying Suicide as the Cause of Death in an Obituary

Background: Historically, people who die by suicide and those who survive them have been perceived more negatively than those affected by other types of death (e.g., Reynolds & Cimbolic, 1988). Yet, it is unclear whether these negative perceptions actually lead to decreased social and emotional support for people bereaved by suicide. Aims: To examine whether specifying suicide as the cause of death in an obituary impacts perceptions of a decedent and willingness to provide support to the decedent’s family. Method: A group of 253 participants were randomly assigned to read one of three fictional obituaries that were identical except for the stated cause of death (suicide, cancer, or drug overdose). Participants responded to questions about the decedent and behaviors toward the family. Results: Consistent with our prediction, people depicted as dying by suicide were viewed more negatively than decedents depicted as dying due to cancer. Contrary to our prediction, participants endorsed similar levels of will...
Human renal allograft rejection: Immune mechanisms, molecular correlates and treatment strategies

Summary: Through the release of cytokines and cell-to-cell interactions, a diverse assembly of lymphocytes, including CD4+ cells, CD8+ cytotoxic T cells, antibody-forming B cells, and other pro-inflammatory leucocytes are recruited into the anti-allograft response. In this review, we discuss immune effector mechanisms, molecular correlates of rejection and therapeutic protocols. the recent expansion in our knowledge, coupled with the discovery and use of new immunosuppressants in the clinic, engenders optimism regarding management of allograft rejection, the most serious frequent complication in organ transplantation.
Simultaneous kinetic and heat transfer limitations in the crystallization of highly undercooled melts

Abstract To elucidate the rapid crystallization of highly supercooled materials, and to provide novel methods for data interpretation in terms of crystallization kinetic parameters, we treat here the directional solidification of a semi-infinite (one-dimensional) radiation-cooled opaque melt using a versatile and computationally efficient integral (profile) technique. Our attention is focused on the coupling of crystallization kinetics with heat transfer limitations in determining the experimentally observable outer surface temperature—time history of the sample. Representative results are displayed for the case of locally planar solidification ‘fronts’ which propagate at a rate dependent either exponentially or on a power of the instantaneous interfacial undercooling, using material property values and cooling rates representative of previously reported experiments on the solidification of ZrO2(l) droplets. In the particular case of constant wave front speed, our present computational method compares favorably in accuracy with an exact solution. Thus, the present model and computational method not only rationalizes the observed luminousity structure of recalescence (‘spearpoints’) in refractory metals and oxides but also appears to hold some promise for inferring phenomenological kinetic laws for the internal solidification of highly supercooled refractory substances, based on readily available luminosity—time records for solidifying opaque melts.
New General Formulations for Constant-Isomer Series of Polycyclic Benzenoids

Constant-isomer series have the same number of isomers and corresponding membership topology at each stage of the circumscribing process. New general formulas which generate the first generation molecular formulas to all constant isomer benzenoid hydrocarbons are presented for the first time. These general formulas along with our recursion equations allow one to obtain all the molecular formulas of benzenoid constant-isomer series. These general formulas are more convenient than those previously derived by Cyvin and coworkers based on the Harary/Harborth upper/lower bounds. At the same time, these general formulas also identify the various topological subclasses of these constant-isomer series.
Colonial secondary education in a global age: Economic

Retaining a secondary education structure designed during British colonial times has resulted in a secondary education system ill suited to serve the labor market needs of Bangladesh. As the country enters an era when increasing numbers of people move away from subsistence farming lifestyles into the informal and small business sector, Bangladesh requires a system that provides large number of people with basic skills for such activities. The economic distortions caused by a secondary sector mismatched with the realities of the labor market result in ongoing income inequalities, unnecessary demand for secondary education growth, and expenditures for private tutors by parents who can ill-afford such services.
Self structuring in the borderline personality.

As a resident in a state hospital, I worked for a time on a chronic ward housing patients who had been there more than 6 years, and some more than 20. Medication had quieted them, but did little to help them return to the world. Their days were spent in a large dayroom holding perhaps 200 patients, all sitting on hard chairs set in rows, one group facing a TV set on the wall, the other facing the first. There was no conversation, no communication of any sort, no interest in the programs on the television, and no spontaneous movement anywhere in the room. I wondered, naively, if rearranging the chairs into small circles might stimulate some interaction, some conversation. So one lunchtime the aides and I scattered the chairs about, breaking up the rows and creating small groupings. We then sat back and waited while they shuffled back in from lunch. There was a pause at the door, silence, and then, for about 10 minutes, without a word being said, a constant scraping sound enveloped us as the chairs were replaced in their rows, all facing as they had before and--though I can't prove it--each one next to its original neighbor. Each person sat in the same place she had always sat and once more, all was right with the world. During the Watergate hearings, Senator Sam Irvin said that the law assumes that each man intends the consequences of his actions. Similarly, a psychoanalytically existential view of man, such as Horney's formulation of character neurosis, attends to how the individual is actively responsible for the creation, perpetuation, and reinforcement of who he is, as well as how that experience of self serves as the organizing principle that gives meaning and direction to his life. When the chronic, regressed schizophrenic patient maintains his detachment from the world with such consistency and energy, can this simply be the consequence of some genetic or developmental deficit, a lack of psychic resources with which to act in the world? Or is there also revealed a dynamic
Role of Moral Identity and Moral Courage Characteristics in Adolescents’ Tendencies to Be a Moral Rebel

Extending prior research on the characteristics potentially associated with adolescents’ tendencies to be a moral rebel, the present study found that adolescents themselves, their peers, and their teachers agreed on adolescents’ tendencies to (a) possess a moral identity, (b) possess moral courage characteristics, and (c) be a moral rebel. Although moral identity (when considered independently and in combination with the moral courage characteristics) did not consistently predict the tendency to be a moral rebel, all indices of the adolescents’ moral courage characteristics positively predicted the tendency to be a moral rebel.
Determining growth faltering with a tracking score.

A tracking score for determining growth faltering in children was developed and tested. A graphical method was developed for classifying by visual inspection whether or not a given child had faltered in growth. This method was used to classify all children in a sample of Guatemalan children as to faltering in both weight and length between 9 and 24 months of age; 80 of 345 children had faltered in weight, and 44 of 336 children had faltered in length. The accuracies for determining this faltering of seven versions of the tracking score and that of three other commonly used scores were assessed and compared using ROC curves, the areas under the curves, and two other ways. The other scores tested were the increment score, the residual score, and a growth-curve parameter score. The accuracies of the scores were overall lower for weight than for length. For both weight and length, the growth-curve parameter score had the lowest accuracy, and the tracking score that used an intermediate number of measurements (four in the interval of interest and three in the previous interval) had the highest accuracy. The tracking score has a number of features that make it attractive as an indicator of faltering. It is easy to calculate and interpret, preserves magnitude and direction, incorporates several growth measurements into a single indicator of faltering, gives equal weight to the information in all the measurements used, allows for missing measurements, and can be generalized to include other aspects of growth.
New ideas track: testing mapreduce-style programs

MapReduce has become a common programming model for processing very large amounts of data, which is needed in a spectrum of modern computing applications. Today several MapReduce implementations and execution systems exist and many MapReduce programs are being developed and deployed in practice. However, developing MapReduce programs is not always an easy task. The programming model makes programs prone to several MapReduce-specific bugs. That is, to produce deterministic results, a MapReduce program needs to satisfy certain high-level correctness conditions. A violating program may yield different output values on the same input data, based on low-level infrastructure events such as network latency, scheduling decisions, etc. Current MapReduce systems and tools are lacking in support for checking these conditions and reporting violations.This paper presents a novel technique that systematically searches for such bugs in MapReduce applications and generates corresponding test cases. The technique works by encoding the high-level MapReduce correctness conditions as symbolic program constraints and checking them for the program under test. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first approach to addressing this problem of MapReduce-style programming.
Nondestructive testing of nuclear reactor components

Abstract This paper summarizes some of the significant research and development efforts in nondestructive testing of nuclear reactor components done by various U.S. Atomic Energy Commission agencies and contractors since 1958. The methods of nondestructive testing discussed here include fuel assay, thermal testing, penetrating radiation (X-rays, gamma-rays, beta-rays, and neutrons), ultrasonics, and eddy currents. A nondestructive testing system for evaluating fuel element cores is described.
Utilization of algal assays to assess the effects of municipal, industrial, and agricultural wastewater effluents upon phytoplankton production in the Snake River system

The most characteristic water quality problem of the Snake River Basin is the excessive aquatic growth and thick blooms of algae. The cause of these aquatic growths is related to the high concentrations of basic nutrients — nitrogen and phosphorus — in the Snake system. Industrial wastes, natural phosphate levels, irrigation return flows, municipal wastes, and the decay of aquatic biota all contribute to the nutrient balance which stimulates aquatic growths.
Open-label Phase I Clinical Study to Assess the Safety of Intravenous Eptifibatide in Patients Undergoing Internal Carotid Artery Angioplasty and Stent Placement

OBJECTIVE Eptifibatide, a competitive platelet glycoprotein IIb-IIIa receptor inhibitor with high selectivity and a short half-life, has been demonstrated to reduce the risk of ischemic events associated with coronary interventions. However, its role in neurointerventional procedures needs to be analyzed. We report the results of an open-label Phase I study to evaluate the safety of the use of eptifibatide during carotid angioplasty and stent placement. METHODS Each study patient received eptifibatide administered intravenously as a 135-microg/kg single-dose bolus, then a 0.5-microg/kg/min infusion for 20 to 24 hours during carotid angioplasty and stent placement. The primary efficacy end point was the 30-day composite occurrence of death, cerebral infarction, transient ischemic attack, and unplanned or urgent surgical intervention, thrombolysis, or subsequent percutaneous revascularization. The primary safety end point was bleeding. Bleeding complications were classified as major (hemoglobin decrease >5 g/dl), minor (hemoglobin decrease 3-5 g/dl), or insignificant. RESULTS Ten patients (mean age, 73 yr; four men) were treated by use of the study protocol. One patient developed a minor stroke postprocedurally (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score of 21 at 24 h that improved to 1 at 7 d). Three patients underwent scheduled coronary artery bypass graft surgery 4 to 12 days after undergoing carotid angioplasty and stent placement. At 1-month follow-up, no new ischemic events were observed. Major or minor bleeding was not observed in any patient. Insignificant bleeding was observed in two patients. CONCLUSION The use of eptifibatide as an adjunct to carotid angioplasty and stent placement seems to be safe. Further studies are required to analyze the effectiveness and role of eptifibatide in neurointerventional procedures.
Less Common Upper Limb Mononeuropathies

This article will focus on the less commonly injured nerves of the upper extremity. These nerves may be involved when trauma results in fractures, dislocations, or swelling with resultant nerve compression. Tumors and ganglions can also compress nerves, causing pain and, over time, demyelination or axon degeneration with weakness. Other mechanisms for upper limb nerve injury include participation in high-level sports, that is, those that generate torque about the arm and shoulder, abnormal stresses about the joints and muscles, or muscle hypertrophy, which may result in nerve injury. The goals of this review are to discuss the clinical presentation and possible causes of upper extremity nerve entrapments and to formulate an electrodiagnostic plan for evaluation. Descriptions of the appropriate nerve conduction studies or needle electromyographic protocols are included for specific nerves. The purpose of the electrodiagnostic examination is to evaluate the degree of nerve injury, axon loss over time, and later, evidence for reinnervation to assist with prognostication. The latter has implications for management of the neuropathy, including the type of exercises and therapy that may be indicated to help maintain the stability and motion of the involved joint(s) and promote strengthening over time as the nerve regenerates.
Noninvasive assessment of diastolic and systolic properties of ibopamine in patients with congestive heart failure.

Abstract The acute effect of a single oral 100 mg dose of ibopamine on systolic and diastolic left ventricular function in nine patients with congestive heart failure was assessed by quantitative M-mode and pulsed Doppler echocardiography. Echocardiography was performed at baseline and 30, 60, and 120 minutes after ingestion of drug. Indices of systolic and diastolic left ventricular function were derived from digitized tracings of the septal and posterior endocardial surfaces and transmitral and aortic valve velocity profiles. Ibopamine significantly improved systolic function as reflected by a decrease in the preejection period to left ventricular ejection time ratio from 0.57 ± 0.16 at baseline to 0.47 ± 0.15 ( p p p = 0.05), respectively. The contribution of atrial systole to total diastolic filling increased from 32 ± 10% at baseline to 37 ± 12% ( p p
Local interactions in a Schellman motif dictate interhelical arrangement in a protein fragment

Background: As an approach to understanding the role of local sequence in determining protein tertiary structure, we have examined the conformation of a 23-residue peptide fragment corresponding to the structurally conserved helix–Schellman motif–helix (H–Sm–H) domain (residues 10–32) of cellular retinoic acid binding protein, along with variants designed to probe the contributions of the helix-terminating Gly23 and the hydrophobic interactions between Leu19 and Val24 in stabilizing the Schellman motif and hence helix termination. Results: In aqueous solution, NMR data for the H–Sm–H peptide show that it samples a largely helical conformation with a break in the helix at the point of the turn in the protein. The data also establish the presence of local hydrophobic interactions and intramolecular hydrogen bonds characteristic of a Schellman motif. Absence of helix termination in trifluoroethanol, a solvent known to disrupt hydrophobic interactions, along with an analysis of H α chemical shifts and NOEs in the variant peptides, suggest a major role for glycine in terminating the helix, with local hydrophobic interactions further stabilizing the Schellman motif. Conclusions: The presence of a Schellman motif in this isolated fragment in water is governed by local interactions and specifies the interspatial arrangement of the helices. This observation underlines the structure predictive value of folding motifs. As proposed for a Schellman motif, helix termination in this fragment is dictated by the local distribution of polar/apolar residues, which is reminiscent of the binary code for protein folding.
Interferon induction and augmentation of natural-killer activity by Staphylococcus protein A.

Abstract Protein A from Staphylococcus aureus (SpA)-induced interferon (IF) production and augmented natural-killer (NK) activity in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBL). IF production was apparent 8 hr and peaked 24 hr after exposure to SpA. Augmentation of NK activity occurred within 10 hr of IF production with peak NK activity occurring 48 hr after exposure to SpA. SpA-induced augmentation of NK activity correlated directly with IF production ( r = 0.997; P
Signs and symptoms of the myofascial pain syndrome: a national survey of pain management providers.

Abstract:Objective:The goal of this study was to assess clinical consensus regarding whether myofascial pain syndrome (MPS) is a legitimate and distinct diagnosis as well as the signs and symptoms characterizing MPS.Design:A standardized mailed survey with return postage provided.Subjects:A total of
Computer Simulation of the Interaction of a Superconducting Synchrotron Magnet Good Field Region with a Particle Beam

This paper illustrates how the results of several magnetic field calculation computer programs can be combined to form a single graphical representation of magnetic field quality within the aperture of a superconducting accelerator magnet. The graphical technique can be applied on a magnet by magnet basis over a range of current excitations. The paper illustrates the value of such graphics when the accelerator beam profile is shown within the simulated magnet bore.
A Laser Deposition Strategy for the Efficient Identification of Glass-Forming Alloys

Compositionally graded Cu-Zr specimens covering a wide composition range (30 to 60 at. pct Zr) were fabricated by direct laser deposition. By observing the surface topography of the as-fabricated specimens with differential interference contrast microscopy, primarily amorphous regions corresponding to compositions of high glass-forming ability were rapidly identified. Electron diffraction results confirmed the relationship between surface topography and atomic structure. The compositional widths of the amorphous regions were observed to narrow with increasing heat input from the laser, enabling further identification of local maxima in the glass-forming landscape of Cu-Zr alloys. In this work, we report two peaks in the glass-forming ability, located at Cu64.7Zr35.3 and Cu50.2Zr49.8. These two compositions find excellent agreement with previously reported results based on casting of discrete compositions.
Penetration Gradients of Sodium Nitrite and Sodium Tripolyphosphate in Haddock Fillets

SUMMARY– Studies were carried out to determine the penetration gradients of sodium nitrite, containing sodium 24, and sodium tripolyphosphate, containing mostly phosphorus 32 in addition to sodium 24. In a parallel experiment, the penetration of sodium nitrite was also determined calorimetrically. Results on this technique compare closely with those obtained from the radiological method.
Amnion-derived stem cells: in quest of clinical applications

In the promising field of regenerative medicine, human perinatal stem cells are of great interest as potential stem cells with clinical applications. Perinatal stem cells could be isolated from normally discarded human placentae, which are an ideal cell source in terms of availability, the fewer number of ethical concerns, less DNA damage, and so on. Numerous studies have demonstrated that some of the placenta-derived cells possess stem cell characteristics like pluripotent differentiation ability, particularly in amniotic epithelial (AE) cells. Term human amniotic epithelium contains a relatively large number of stem cell marker-positive cells as an adult stem cell source. In this review, we introduce a model theory of why so many AE cells possess stem cell characteristics. We also describe previous work concerning the therapeutic applications and discuss the pluripotency of the AE cells and potential pitfalls for amnion-derived stem cell research.
Cathode Materials for Reduced-Temperature SOFCs

The progress toward a commercial solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) continues to be a slow struggle due to materials, stacking, and system challenges. One long-term challenge has been the search for suitable cathode materials for use on intermediate (650-800°C) yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) electrolytes and low-temperature (500-650°C) gadolinia-doped ceria (CGO) electrolytes. The present study has identified La(Sr)FeO 3 and possibly Pr(Sr)FeO 3 as potential cathode materials for YSZ. A La-deficient La(Sr)FeO 3 cathode has achieved an area-specific resistance of 0.1 Ω cm 2 at 800°C, with stable long-term performance. On CGO, Pr(Sr)CoO 3 , Gd(Sr)CoO 3 , and Sr(Co/Fe) 1 . 5 O 3 . 2 5 have all achieved an area-specific resistance close to 0.1 Ω cm 2 at 650°C, with relatively stable long-term performance, but further reduction in temperature to 600°C is necessary for efficient CGO operation.
Knots, Tangles, and Electrical Networks

The signed graphs of tangles or of tunnel links (special links in {R3-two parallel lines}) are two terminal signed networks. The latter contain the two terminal passive electrical networks. The conductance across two terminals of a network is defined, generalizing the classical electrical notion. For a signed graph, the conductance is an ambient isotopy invariant of the corresponding tangle or tunnel link. Series, parallel, and star triangle methods from electrical networks yield techniques for computing conductance, as well as giving the first natural interpretation of the graphical Reidemeister moves. The conductance is sensitive to detecting mirror images and linking. The continued fraction of a rational tangle is a conductance. Algebraic tangles correspond to two terminal series parallel networks. For tangles, the conductance can be computed from a special evaluation of quotients of Conway polynomials and there is a similar evaluation using the original Jones polynomial.
Characterization of fluorescently derivatized bovine tau protein and its localization and functions in cultured Chinese hamster ovary cells

Bovine brain tau protein was tagged with the fluorescent dye 5 (and 6)-carboxy-x-rhodamine-succinimidyl ester and the functional properties of the fluorescent analog were tested in vitro by kinetic measurement and SDS gel electrophoresis. X-rhodamine tau was competent to bind to microtubules and promote microtubule assembly in vitro. Labeled tau was further characterized by microinjection of cultured Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells to study its intracellular distribution and potential new functions. X-rhodamine tau incorporated rapidly into centrosomes within seconds after microinjection. It distinctly labeled the microtubule network as early as 5 to 10 minutes following microinjection. In addition, X-rhodamine tau was transported into the nucleus and labeled the nucleolus specifically. Double labeling of the injected cells with DiC6(3) indicated that in some cases, fluorescent tau may associate with the endoplasmic reticulum. The concentrations of injected X-rhodamine tau ranged from 1.7 to 5.0 mg/ml, yet distinct bundling of microtubules was not observed. Studies of nocodazole effects on the microtubules established that X-rhodamine tau stabilized microtubules against depolymerization conditions. We conclude that this fluorescent analog of tau is associated with microtubules, the nucleolus, and other microtubule-related structures in living cells, and is competent to stabilize microtubules against microtubule depolymerizing drug treatment. This approach provides a useful model system for the study of modified tau in neurodegenerative disease. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Resistance in Patients with CMV Retinitis and AIDS Treated with Oral or Intravenous Ganciclovir

Treatment of cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis with oral ganciclovir results in relatively low plasma concentrations of drug, which theoretically could cause more frequent viral resistance compared with intravenous (iv) ganciclovir. By use of a plaque-reduction assay to quantify phenotypic sensitivity to ganciclovir, virus isolates were studied from patients with CMV retinitis participating in four clinical trials of oral ganciclovir. Before treatment, 69% of patients were culture-positive but just 1.1% of patients yielded a resistant CMV, defined as a median inhibitory concentration (IC50) >6 microM. On treatment, the first resistant isolate was recovered at 50 days. Overall, 3.1% of patients receiving iv ganciclovir and 6. 5% of those taking oral ganciclovir shed resistant CMV (median ganciclovir exposures of 75 and 165 days, respectively). Since IC50s for clinical isolates increased proportionately with treatment duration, it is likely that viral resistance would be more frequent with longer treatment.
Spin evolution of supermassive black holes and galactic nuclei

The spin angular momentum $\mathbit{S}$ of a supermassive black hole (SBH) precesses due to torques from orbiting stars, and the stellar orbits precess due to dragging of inertial frames by the spinning hole. We solve the coupled post-Newtonian equations describing the joint evolution of $\mathbit{S}$ and the stellar angular momenta ${\mathbit{L}}_{j}$, $j=1\dots{}N$ in spherical, rotating nuclear star clusters. In the absence of gravitational interactions between the stars, two evolutionary modes are found: (1) nearly uniform precession of $\mathbit{S}$ about the total angular momentum vector of the system and (2) damped precession, leading, in less than one precessional period, to alignment of $\mathbit{S}$ with the angular momentum of the rotating cluster. Beyond a certain distance from the SBH, the time scale for angular momentum changes due to gravitational encounters between the stars is shorter than spin-orbit precession times. We present a model, based on the Ornstein-Uhlenbeck equation, for the stochastic evolution of star clusters due to gravitational encounters and use it to evaluate the evolution of $\mathbit{S}$ in nuclei where changes in the ${\mathbit{L}}_{j}$ are due to frame dragging close to the SBH and to encounters farther out. Long-term evolution in this case is well described as uniform precession of the SBH about the cluster's rotational axis, with an increasingly important stochastic contribution when SBH masses are small. Spin precessional periods are predicted to be strongly dependent on nuclear properties, but typical values are $\ensuremath{\sim}{10}^{7}--{10}^{8}\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{yr}$ for low-mass SBHs in dense nuclei, $\ensuremath{\sim}{10}^{8}--{10}^{10}\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{yr}$ for SBH masses $\ensuremath{\sim}{10}^{8}{\mathcal{M}}_{\ensuremath{\bigodot}}$, and $\ensuremath{\sim}{10}^{10}--{10}^{11}\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{yr}$ for the most massive SBHs. We compare the evolution of SBH spins in stellar nuclei to the case of torquing by an inclined, gaseous accretion disk.
AN ASSESSMENT OF CONTEXTUAL MEDIATION IN TRANCE STATES OF SHAMANIC JOURNEYS

30 experiences of shamanic journeys derived from Harner (1990) were analyzed based on a recent coding scheme for contextual variables proposed by Lange, Houran, Harte, and Havens. Consistent with previous research, the experiential content of the trances was quite consistent with the content of the available contextual variables, and embedded cues in particular (r = .68, p < .001). As predicted, trance states of shamanic journeys are sufficiently structured to suppress contextual effects on the modality of experience. The findings suggest that the contents of shamanic trance are not solely influenced by psychopathology, biochemical effects, or cultural influences.
Characterization of the Zymomonas mobilis glucose facilitator gene product (glf) in recombinant Escherichia coli: examination of transport mechanism, kinetics and the role of glucokinase in glucose transport

Zymomonas mobilis is known to transport glucose by a facilitated diffusion process. A putative glucose facilitator gene (glf), closely related to a large family of glucose transporters, is located in a cluster of genes that code for enzymes of glucose metabolism. The Z. mobilis glf gene is able to complement glucose transport in an Escherichia coli strain that is defective in native glucose transport and glucokinase. In this study, the recombinant E. coli was shown to be capable of influx counterflow when preloaded with glucose and had an apparent Km for glucose of approximately 1.1-2.9 mM, consistent with the function of Glf as a low-affinity glucose facilitator. The ability of glucokinase mutants expressing glf to transport glucose made it clear that glucokinase activity was not required for Glf-dependent glucose transport. The possibility that glucokinase can interact with Glf to improve the affinity for glucose was not supported since expression of the Z. mobilis glucokinase gene, in addition to glf, did not affect the Km of Glf for glucose in recombinant E. coli. The inability of various sugars to compete with glucose during glucose transport by recombinant E. coli expressing glf indicated that Glf is specific for glucose. While the results of fructose transport assays did not completely rule out the possibility of very low affinity for fructose, the apparent specificity of Glf for glucose makes it possible that Z. mobilis utilizes a different transporter(s) for fructose.
Synchrotron X-ray topographic characterization of defects in InP bulk crystals

Synchrotron x-ray topography of InP reveals striations and facets that nucleate twinning under specific conditions, formed during growth, and slip bands during post-growth cooling. Use of necking and low temperature gradients effectively lowers dislocation densities
A Study of the Interaction of the North Atlantic Oscillation with Ocean Circulation

Observed patterns of wind stress curl and air‐sea heat flux associated with the North Atlantic oscillation (NAO) are used to discuss the response of ocean gyres and thermohaline circulation to NAO forcing and their possible feedback on the NAO. The observations motivate, and are interpreted in the framework of, a simple mathematical model that couples Ekman layers, ocean gyres, and thermohaline circulation to the atmospheric jet stream. Meridional shifts in the zero wind stress curl line are invoked to drive anomalies in ocean gyres, and north‐south dipoles in air‐sea flux drive anomalous thermohaline circulation. Both gyres and thermohaline circulation play a role in modulating sea surface temperature anomalies and hence, through air‐sea interaction, the overlying jet stream. The model, which can be expressed in the form of a delayed oscillator with ocean gyres and/or thermohaline circulation providing the delay, identifies key nondimensional parameters that control whether the ocean responds passively to NAO forcing or actively couples. It suggests that both thermohaline circulation and ocean gyres can play a role in coupled interactions on decadal timescales.
Self-aligning silicon interposer tiles and silicon bridges for large nanophotonics enabled systems

A two-and-a-half-dimensional (2.5D) platform for enabling silicon nano-photonics and dense electrical interconnections between interposers in a tile-like configuration is presented. Three 20 × 20 mm silicon interposer tiles are assembled directly on an FR4 printed wiring board (PWB), and two 6 × 20 mm silicon bridges are assembled on top of the interposer tiles. Accurate alignment of interposer tiles to bridges, an important metric in enabling highly efficient optical coupling, is provided using positive self-alignment structures (PSASs). It is demonstrated that by using PSAS on two silicon substrates, sub-micron alignment between substrates is possible; in the cascaded configuration involving FR4, <5 μm alignment accuracy is obtained. In addition, electrical interconnection via a bridge using mechanically flexible interconnects (MFIs) is demonstrated, which made non-bonding interconnections from one interposer tile to another via a silicon bridge, allowing silicon bridges as well as the interposer tiles to be replaced. Total silicon interposer area available is 960 mm2.
Hospitalizations for Kawasaki disease among children in the United States, 1988-1997.

Objective. To evaluate the epidemiologic pattern of Kawasaki disease (KD) in the United States over 10 years. Methods. The National Inpatient Sample, a stratified national sample of >900 hospitals in 22 states of the United States, was used. Data on hospital discharges from 1988–1997 were analyzed. Patients Results. There were 6442 patients with KD admitted to 651 hospitals. Median age at hospital admission was 2 years. Peak incidence by year of age was 1 year old. Children Conclusions. KD affects mainly children under 5 years of age, with a peak incidence in children 1 to 2 years of age. The incidence of KD was rising over the study period. There is a male predominance. Although KD occurs year-round, the lowest incidence is seen from July through September. Such seasonal variation did not change over the 10 years. Seasonal pattern may vary in different geographic regions. Mortality from KD is rare, although children ≥10 years are at higher risk.
Conduit properties and karstification in the unconfined Floridan aquifer.

Exchange of water between conduits and matrix is an important control on regional chemical compositions, karstification, and quality of ground water resources in karst aquifers. A sinking stream (Santa Fe River Sink) and its resurgence (River Rise) in the unconfined portion of the Floridan Aquifer provide the opportunity to monitor conduit inflow and outflow. The use of temperature as a tracer allows determination of residence times and velocities through the conduit system. Based on temperature records from two high water events, flow is reasonably represented as pipe flow with a cross-sectional area of 380 m 2 , although this model may be complicated by losses of water from the conduit system at higher discharge rates. Over the course of the study year, the River Rise discharged a total of 1.9 × 10 7 m 3 more water than entered the River Sink, reflecting net contribution of ground water from the matrix into the conduit system. However, as River Sink discharge rates peaked following three rainfall events during the study period, the conduit system lost water, presumably into the matrix. Surface water in high flow events is typically undersaturated with respect to calcite and thus may lead to dissolution, depending on its residence time in the matrix. A calculation of local denudation is larger than other regional estimates, perhaps reflecting return of water to conduits before calcite equilibrium is reached. The exchange of matrix and conduit water is an important variable in karst hydrology that should be considered in management of these water resources.
An achiral form of the hexameric resorcin[4]arene capsule sustained by hydrogen bonding with alcohols

The well-known hexameric capsules sustained by self-assembly of resorcin[4]arenes 1 with water molecules (16·(H2O)8) are shown to assemble similarly with (±)-2-ethylhexanol (2EH) as an achiral 16·(2EH)6·(H2O)2 species which further encapsulates 2EH.
Open, thoracoscopic and robotic segmentectomy for lung cancer.

Lobectomy is currently the standard procedure for early stage lung cancer and the role of sublobar resection is under investigation for selected patients with small tumors. In this review, studies reporting outcomes on open, thoracoscopic and robotic segmentectomy were analyzed. In patients with stage I lung cancer, with tumors <2 cm in diameter and within segmental anatomic boundaries, segmentectomy appears to have equivalent rates of morbidity, recurrence and survival when compared to lobectomy. Segmentectomy also appears to result in greater preservation of lung function and exercise capacity than lobectomy. It appears reasonable to consider segmentectomy for patients with stage I lung cancer (particularly in air-containing tumors with ground glass opacities) where tumors are <2 cm in diameter and an acceptable segmental margin is obtainable, especially in patients with advanced age, poor performance status, or poor cardiopulmonary reserve. The results of two ongoing randomized controlled trials (CALGB 140503 and JCOG0802/ WJOG4607L) and additional well-designed studies on open, thoracoscopic, and robotic segmentectomy will be important for clarifying the role of segmentectomy for lung cancer.
Deciphering the roles of the histone H2B N-terminal domain in genome-wide transcription

Histone N-terminal domains are frequent targets of posttranslational modifications. Multiple acetylated lysine residues have been identified in the N-terminal domain of H2B (K6, K11, K16, K17, K21, and K22), but little is known about how these modifications regulate transcription. We systematically mutated the N-terminal domain of histone H2B, both at known sites of lysine acetylation and elsewhere, and characterized the resulting changes in genome-wide expression in each mutant strain. Our results indicate that known sites of lysine acetylation in this domain are required for gene-specific transcriptional activation. However, the entire H2B N-terminal domain is principally required for the transcriptional repression of a large subset of the yeast genome. We find that the histone H2B repression (HBR) domain, comprised of residues 30 to 37, is necessary and sufficient for this repression. Many of the genes repressed by the HBR domain are located adjacent to telomeres or function in vitamin and carbohydrate metabolism. Deletion of the HBR domain also confers an increased sensitivity to DNA damage by UV irradiation. We mapped the critical residues in the HBR domain required for its repression function. Finally, comparisons of these data with previous studies reveal that a surprising number of genes are coregulated by the N-terminal domains of histone H2B, H3, and H4.
Discontinuous hindcast simulations of estuarine bathymetric change: A case study from Suisun Bay, California

Simulations of estuarine bathymetric change over decadal timescales require methods for idealization and reduction of forcing data and boundary conditions. Continuous simulations are hampered by computational and data limitations and results are rarely evaluated with observed bathymetric change data. Bathymetric change data for Suisun Bay, California span the 1867e1990 period with five bathymetric surveys during that period. The four periods of bathymetric change were modeled using a coupled hydrodynamic-sediment transport model operated at the tidal-timescale. The efficacy of idealization techniques was investigated by discontinuously simulating the four periods. The 1867e1887 period, used for calibration of wave energy and sediment parameters, was modeled with an average error of 37% while the remaining periods were modeled with error ranging from 23% to 121%. Variation in postcalibration performance is attributed to temporally variable sediment parameters and lack of bathymetric and configuration data for portions of Suisun Bay and the Delta. Modifying seaward sediment delivery and bed composition resulted in large performance increases for post-calibration periods suggesting that continuous simulation with constant parameters is unrealistic. Idealization techniques which accelerate morphological change should therefore be used with caution in estuaries where parameters may change on sub-decadal timescales. This study highlights the utility and shortcomings of estuarine geomorphic models for estimating past changes in forcing mechanisms such as sediment supply and bed composition. The results further stress the inherent difficulty of simulating estuarine changes over decadal timescales due to changes in configuration, benthic composition, and anthropogenic forcing such as dredging and channelization. Published by Elsevier Ltd.