cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Case Study in Laboratory-Based Online Courses: Teaching CNC Programming

Asynchronous web based instruction, more commonly known as online education or distance learning, has been available for some time. This technology has brought education within the reach of many who would otherwise be unable to attend live classes. Time schedules and distance no longer have a bearing on attending a course. Even group projects are manageable with email and discussion groups. Many courses convert quite well to the online format, and studies have shown that students can learn as much from online courses as from live courses. In many cases, multiple course certificate programs and even some complete degree programs are offered online. As inviting as online courses may be, they do have their limitations, especially classes with a laboratory component. A number of institutions have offered laboratory-based classes in an online format with varying degrees of complexity and success. In some cases, students travel to the institution a limited number of times for extensive laboratory experiences while other institutions use what might best be described as virtual reality based systems. This paper discusses Purdue University Calumet’s first laboratory-based online course, MFET 275, Computer Numerical Control Programming Application. A combination of technologies makes this course successful and effective. Development procedures for this course along with technology used, online pedagogy issues, and course assessment are covered in this paper. Suggestions for future course development complete the discussion.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Mean Free Path and Apparent Thermal Conductivity of a Gas in a Porous Medium

Consider a system consisting of two parallel plates at different temperatures. To reduce the heat transfer, one can place a solid network; e.g., a matrix or lattice, in the system. The matrix Partitions the space into very fine open pores. As a result, the motion of the gas molecules is restrict d and the heat transfer is reduced. Silica aerogel is a porous medium, which has pore sizes of about 10 nm, which is smaller than the mean free path of gas molecules at atmospheric pressure (about 80 nm) in a free space. Hence, even at atmospheric pressure the matrix restricts the motion of the gas molecules; the effect is more pronounced at lower pressures. 5 refs., 2 figs.
Prostaglandins and Leukotrienes: Advances in Eicosanoid Biology

Prostaglandins and leukotrienes are potent eicosanoid lipid mediators derived from phospholipase-released arachidonic acid that are involved in numerous homeostatic biological functions and inflammation. They are generated by cyclooxygenase isozymes and 5-lipoxygenase, respectively, and their biosynthesis and actions are blocked by clinically relevant nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, the newer generation coxibs (selective inhibitors of cyclooxygenase-2), and leukotriene modifiers. The prime mode of prostaglandin and leukotriene action is through specific G protein-coupled receptors, many of which have been cloned recently, thus enabling specific receptor agonist and antagonist development. Important insights into the mechanisms of inflammatory responses, pain, and fever have been gleaned from our current understanding of eicosanoid biology.
Implementing the multiprefix operation efficiently

Abstract The multiprefix operation is a parallel primitive operation of significant generality. It is, for example, one of the two basic primitives proposed for the Fluent abstract machine [10]. It also subsumes the fetch-and-op primitive of the NYU Ultracomputer [6] and the scan operation of the Connection machine [2]. Ranade et al. [10] present an efficient randomized implementation of the multiprefix operation. In this paper, we present an efficient deterministic implementation of the multiprefix operation for the hypercube. This implementation can be used as a paradigm for implementing this primitive efficiently on other networks, such as the shuffle-exchange, mesh, butterfly, and mesh-of-trees [4] . We arrive at our implementation of the multiprefix operation in two steps. We first present an efficient implementation of another parallel primitive operation, Hillis' β operation [7], in terms of a number of simple primitives. We then show that this implementation can be modified to create an implementation for the multiprefix operation without increasing the use of any of the simple primitives by more than a constant factor.
Ultrastructure of juxtaglomerular cells correlated with biochemical parameters in a hibernator.

Abstract 1. 1. Ultrastructural features of juxtaglomerular cells have been correlated with plasma and kidney analyses from non-hibernating, hibernating and awakening ground squirrels. 2. 2. Juxtaglomerular cells in kidneys from hibernating animals show signs of increased activity. 3. 3. Plasma samples from hibernating animals show a significant increase in magnesium. 4. 4. Kidney analyses from hibernating animals, show glycogen increases and lactate and inorganic phosphate decrease significantly. Adenosine triphosphate remains the same. 5. 5. Maintenance of high-energy phosphates in the hibernating kidney is essential to maintaining sodium transport and osmotic pressure. This coupled with a functional renin-angiotensin system regulates water and electrolyte balance.
Double-Tensural Bistable Mechanisms (DTBM) With On-Chip Actuation and Spring-Like Post-Bistable Behavior

A set of mechanisms called Double Tensural Bistable Mechanisms (DTBM) is presented. DTBMs are fully compliant linear bistable mechanisms that have two bending segments that undergo tension loading. Five configurations of the DTBM are designed, fabricated using surface micromachining, and tested. Measured force and displacement are compared with finite element analysis (FEA) predictions. For two DTBM configurations, a novel post-switch, large-displacement, low-k linear spring behavior is predicted by the FEA models and verified through experimental testing. On-chip actuation of two devices is achieved using thermomechanical in-plane microactuators (TIMs). The DTBM mechanism set explores a relatively new design space for fully compliant micromechanisms, and mechanisms from this class have promise in such applications as shutter positioning, microvalves, electrical relays, inertial sensors and g/time switches.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Yersinia ironomics: comparison of iron transporters among Yersiniapestis biotypes and its nearest neighbor, Yersinia pseudotuberculosis

Although Yersinia pestis epidemic biovars and Yersinia pseudotuberculosis are recently diverged, highly related species, they cause different diseases via disparate transmission routes. Since iron transport systems are important for iron acquisition from hosts and for survival in the environment, we have analyzed potential iron transport systems encoded by epidemic and non-epidemic or endemic strains of Y. pestis as well as two virulent Y. pseudotuberculosis strains. Computational biology analysis of these genomes showed a high degree of identity/similarity among 16 proven or possible iron/heme transporters identified. Of these, 7 systems were essentially the same in all seven genomes analyzed. The remaining 9 loci had 2-6 genetic variations among these genomes. Two untested, potential siderophore-dependent systems appear intact in Y. pseudotuberculosis but are disrupted or absent in all the endemic Y. pestis strains as well as the epidemic strains from the antiqua and mediaevalis biovars. Only one of these two loci are obviously disrupted in Y. pestis CO92 (epidemic orientalis biovar). Experimental studies failed to identify a role for hemin uptake systems in the virulence of pneumonic plague and suggest that Y. pestis CO92 does not make a siderophore other than Ybt.
Partitioning two- and three-trophic-level effects of resistant plants on the predator, Nabis roseipennis

Two- and three-trophic-level effects of resistant soybean plants on the development and fecundity of the predator Nabis roseipennis Reuter (Hemiptera: Nabidae) were determined. The nabids, like many hemipteran predators, feed on plants as well as arthropod prey. The life history traits of N. roseipennis when feeding on Pseudoplusia includens (Hubner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) fed the resistant soybean cultivar PI 229358 or the susceptible Cobb' and while exposed to these resistant and susceptible soybean cultivars or a no-plant control were determined. Nymphal survival of N. roseipennis was unaffected by either prey or plant treatment. Development time was extended and fecundity of N, roseipennis was reduced by feeding on prey fed the resistant plant but not by exposure to resistant soybean plants. Thus, three-trophic-level effects of the resistant cultivar PI 229358 on prey quality were more important than two-trophic-level effects of direct plant feeding on development and fecundity of N. roseipennis, Consistency of these results with those of other predatory hemipterans and the potential impact of diet composition on the effects of resistant plants are discussed.
Direct injection hplc analysis of some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs on restricted access media columns

Direct serum injection methods are described for the HPLC determination of selected non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) on restricted access media (RAM) columns, using either a Pinkerton (ISRP) or semi-permeable surface (SPS) column. Twenty microlitres of a filtered serum sample was injected directly onto each column. Calibration curves were prepared for ketoprofen (1-20 micrograms/mL), fenbufen (0.8-20 micrograms/mL), sulindac (0.8-20 micrograms/mL) and probenecid (1.5-40 micrograms/mL) on the SPS column, and nabumetone (1.5-40 micrograms/mL) and indomethacin (1.5-40 micrograms/mL) on the Pinkerton column. The percentage error and imprecision of the methods were found to be less than 10%. The inter- and intra-day variability for analytes were in the range of 0.15-10%. The limits of quantitation and detection were in the range of 800-1500 and 300-800 ng/mL, respectively, for the analytes studied. A hydrophobic shielded phase (Hisep) column was also investigated and was found to be generally too retentive (> 29 min) for assay of these analytes.
Isolation and characterization of multipotential mesenchymal stem cells from feline bone marrow

Objective. Although several types of stem cells have been isolated from rodent and human tissues, very few data exist on stem cell isolation from nonrodent animals, which seriously limits the advancement of stem cell biology and its ultimate translation to human clinical applications. Domestic cats are used frequently in biomedical research and are the preferred species for studies of normal physiology and disease, particularly in neuroscience. Therefore, the objective of this study was to characterize mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) from feline bone marrow for use in research on the application of stem cells to human health problems for which cats are the preferred model. Methods. Mesenchymal stem cells from feline bone marrow were isolated by standard methodology developed for other species and characterized according to morphology, growth traits, cell-surface antigen profile, and differentiation repertoire in vitro. Results. Feline mesenchymal stem cells exhibit a fibroblast-like morphology with bipolar or polygonal cell bodies and possess a cell-surface antigen profile similar to their rodent and human counterparts. Feline MSC exist at a frequency of 1 in 3.8 � 10 5 bone marrow mononuclear cells and are capable of differentiation to adipocytic, osteocytic, and neuronal phenotypes when exposed to appropriate induction media. Conclusions. Mesenchymal stem cells isolated from feline bone marrow possess several traits typical of MSC from other species. Characterization of feline mesenchymal stem cells will facilitate future studies of stem cell biology and therapeutics for which the domestic cat is an indispensable model. © 2002 International Society for Experimental Hematology. Published by Elsevier Science Inc.
Contribution of taxane biosynthetic pathway gene expression to observed variability in paclitaxel accumulation in Taxus suspension cultures

Variability in product accumulation is one of the major obstacles limiting the widespread commercialization of plant cell culture technology to supply natural product pharmaceuticals. Despite extensive process engineering efforts, which have led to increased yields, plant cells exhibit variability in productivity that is poorly understood. Elicitation of Taxus cultures with methyl jasmonate (MeJA) induces paclitaxel accumulation, but to varying extents in different cultures. In this work, cultures with different aggregation profiles were established to create predictable differences in paclitaxel accumulation upon MeJA elicitation. Expression of known paclitaxel biosynthetic genes in MeJA-elicited cultures exhibiting both substantial (15-fold) and moderate (2-fold) differences in paclitaxel accumulation was analyzed using qRT-PCR. Each population exhibited the characteristic large increase in paclitaxel pathway gene expression following MeJA elicitation; however, differences in expression between populations were minor, and only observed for the cultures with the 15-fold variation in paclitaxel content. These data suggest that although upregulation of biosynthetic pathway gene expression contributes to observed increases in paclitaxel synthesis upon elicitation with MeJA, there are additional factors that need to be uncovered before paclitaxel productivity can be fully optimized.
PDT as a Cytotoxic Agent and Biological Response Modifier: Implications for Cancer Prevention and Treatment in Immunosuppressed and Immunocompetent Patients

PDT acts as a biological response modifier in addition to directly damaging target cells and their blood supply. The reduced efficacy of PDT in immunosuppressed patients demonstrates the importance of immune mechanisms in this therapy, and transplant recipients require aggressive optimization of direct cytotoxic pathways. However, immunocompetent individuals can benefit from PDT's effects on innate and adaptive immune responses, including the possibility of generating in situ anti-tumor vaccines.
Determination of phenylbutazone in tablets by nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometry.

A method for the quantitative analysis of phenylbutazone in tablets using NMR is reported. The method is both accurate and precise. Using synthetic mixtures, the mean recovery value ±SD was 100.5 ± 0.86%. The NMR results of commercial preparations are compared with those obtained by the USP XX procedure. The NMR spectrum, in addition, provides a very specific means of identification for phenylbutazone.
Cycle life performance of lithium-ion pouch cells

Abstract Cycle life studies have been done on lithium-ion pouch cell with LiCoO 2 as cathode and meso-carbon micro-beads (MCMB) as anode at five different temperatures. By using the rate capability tests done at the same temperature as that of cycling and the half cell studies done on the fresh and cycled individual electrodes, the stoichiometric windows of individual electrodes at the beginning and at the end of cycling have been estimated. By analyzing these estimates along with the X-ray diffraction studies and half cell studies on cycled cathodes, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and half cell studies on cycled anodes, possible causes of increased capacity fade with increasing temperature were found to be the anode active material loss, probably due to a solvent/salt reduction reaction on the anode. Lithium deposition on the anode also has been identified as a possible side reaction during later stages of cycling at 35 and 45 °C.
2,[3]tert-butyl-4-hydroxyanisole does not reduce SCE induction by benzo(a) pyrene in bone marrow cells of C57BL/6 mice.

Recently, a number of publications have suggested that bone marrow cytogenetics may be used to detect anticarcinogenic or antimutagenic activity. In this work, 0.75% 2,[3]-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyanisole (BHA), fed in the diet for 2 weeks, was tested for its ability to reduce the frequency of benzo(a)pyrene (BP)-induced SCE in mouse bone marrow. C57BL/6 male mice, were injected i.p. with BP at 0, 33, 67, and 100 mg/kg body weight. The mean SCE/chromosome +/- s.e.m. for animals on control diet was 0 mg/kg, 0.108 +/- 0.005; 33 mg/kg, 0.225 +/- 0.011; 67 mg/kg, 0.289 +/- 0.012; 100 mg/kg, 0.311 +/- 0.013. The mean SCE/chromosome +/- s.e.m. for animals on the 0.75% BHA diet was 0 mg/kg, 0.105 +/- 0.006; 33 mg/kg, 0.224 +/- 0.009; 67 mg/kg, 0.262 +/- 0.013; 100 mg/kg, 0.326 +/- 0.012. There are no significant differences between animals on the control and BHA diets. Excretion of BP in urine over a 72 hr time period was significantly increased in animals on the BHA diet, at both low and high doses. Water-soluble metabolites accounted for all of this increase. It appears that bone marrow is not a good model for the gastrointestinal tract, and that short-term assays for anticarcinogens or antimutagens are more likely to be predictive if they are done in the target organs.
Velocity profile similarity for viscous flow development along a longitudinally slotted wind-tunnel wall

A discussion of the flow field measurements on the slot centerline of two different longitudinally slotted wind-tunnel walls is presented. The longitudinal and transverse components of these data are then transformed using the concept of flow similarity to demonstrate the applicability of the technique to the development of the viscous shear flow along and through a slotted wall. Results are presented showing the performance of the similarity transformations with variations in tunnel station, Mach number, and airfoil-induced curvature of the tunnel free stream.
Electrochemical potentials and potassium concentration profiles recorded from perilymph, endolymph and associated inner ear tissues in adrenalectomized rats.

Abstract This study evaluated the electrochemical potentials and potassium concentration ( C K+ ) profiles in the perilymph, endolymph, marginal cells, and spiral ligament of adrenalectomized rats in which endogenous corticosteroids had been removed. Electrochemical potentials recorded at the four cochlear sites were not affected by adrenalectomy (ADX). C K+ was greater in the endolymph of the ADX animals as compared to control animals. Additionally, there was an increase of C K+ in the marginal cells, perilymph, and spiral ligament tissues of the ADX animals as compared to control animals, although the observed increases were not statistically significant. In a previous study (Ma et al., 1995a), it was found that potassium levels in the blood plasma of ADX animals were higher than those identified in normal rats; thus, ADX may have a systemic effect on C K+ that is detectable in both tissues and fluids within the cochlea. Even though C K+ was elevated within the cochlea in the ADX model, the functional response of the inner ear, as assessed electrophysiologically, was not altered.
Enteroenteric intussusception due to a metastatic malignant fibrous histiocytoma

Intussusception secondary to metastatic sarcoma is an unusual cause of small bowel obstruction. When a patient who has no history of a previous laparotomy, and has a known malignancy which metastasized hematogenously, presents with small bowel obstruction, the diagnosis of intussusception should be considered. The patient should be evaluated and treated accordingly.
Vapor pressures of the polychlorinated dibenzodioxins (PCDDs) and the polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs)

Abstract A dynamic gas saturation technique was used to measure the solid-phase vapor pressures (pSo) of six polychlorinated dibenzodioxins (PCDDs) and seven polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) at 25°C. Three polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (phenanthrene, anthracene, and chrysene) were also examined to validate the method. The pSo values of the three PAHs at 25°C were all within a factor of 2 of values previously obtained by a similar technique. The measured pSo values were converted to sub-cooled liquid vapor pressure (pLo) values using entropy of fusion information. For eight of the PCDD/F congeners, which included four toxicologically significant 2,3,7,8-substituted PCDD/F congeners, the pLo values obtained here at 25°C are significantly different than the values that can be extrapolated from higher temperatures using previously available pSo values. The log p L o values at 25°C obtained in this study were regressed vs.: (1) corresponding values of gas chromatography retention index (GC-RI); (2) number of chlorines; (3) molecular weight; and (4) melting point. The best correlation was obtained using GC-RI, and was used together with information on the temperature-dependent molar enthalpy of vaporization to develop equations for predicting temperature-dependent pLo values for all 210 PCDD/Fs.
Lithiation-induced zinc clustering of Zn3, Zn12, and Zn18 units in Zintl-like Ca∼30Li3+xZn60-x (x = 0.44-1.38).

Zinc clusters are not common for binary intermetallics with relatively low zinc content, but this work shows that zinc clustering can be triggered by lithiation, as exemplified by Ca∼30Li3+xZn60–x, P6/mmm, Z = 1, which can be directly converted from CaZn2. Two end members of the solid solution (x = 0.44 and 1.38) were established and structurally characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analyses: Ca30Li3.44(6)Zn59.56(6), a = 15.4651(9) A, c = 9.3898(3) A; Ca30.45(2)Li4.38(6)Zn58.62(6), a = 15.524(3) A, c = 9.413(2) A. The structures of Ca∼30Li3+xZn60–x feature a condensed anionic network of Zn3 triangles, lithium-centered Zn12 icosahedra, and arachno-(Zn,Li)18 tubular clusters that are surrounded respectively by Ca14, Ca20, and Ca30 polyhedra. These polyhedra share faces and form a clathrate-like cationic framework. The specific occupation of lithium in the structure is consistent with theoretical “coloring” analyses. Analysis by the linear muffin-tin orbital (LMTO) method within the atomic spher...
The effects of depuration, size and sex on trace metal levels in bay mussels

Abstract The effects of depuration, size and sex on the concentrations of Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn and Cd were determined for gonadal and somatic tissues of Mytilus edulis from Yaquina Bay, Oregon. After depuration, Mn levels decreased significantly in both tissues while Cu and Ni concentrations increased in somatic tissues. The latter finding may have been associated with a stress response manifested by the appearance of new byssal threads and attachment to the vessel. Larger, and presumably older, mussels contained higher concentrations of Ni, Cu and Cd in their somatic tissues while smaller animals had greater somatic levels of Mn. There were no significant differences in gonad concentrations between the two size groups. Manganese and Zn levels were greater in the gonads of female mussels and Cd was more concentrated in the somatic tissues of females.
Constant reverse thrust activated reorientation of liquid hydrogen with Geyser initiation

A key objective of the cryogenic fluid management of the spacecraft propulsion system is to develop the technology necessary for acquisition or positioning of liquid outflow or vapor venting. Numerical simulation of positive liquid acquisition is attempted by introducing reverse gravity acceleration, resulting from the propulsive thrust of auxiliary engines, which exceeds critical value for the initiation of geyser. Based on the computer simulation of flowfields during the course of fluid reorientation, six dimensionless parameters resulted in this study. It shows that these parameters hold near-constant values through the entire ranges of liquid filled levels, from 30-80 percent, during the course of fluid reorientation.
Homoclinic and heteroclinic orbits for a class of Hamiltonian systems

The existence of a rich structure of homoclinic and heteroclinic solutions is established for a family of Hamiltonian systems that serve as a simpler model for the multiple pendulum system. The proof is based on recently developed arguments from the calculus of variations that have proved useful in finding actual solutions of an equation near approximate solution.
Mucosal antibody responses in experimental hookworm infection.

SUMMARY Hookworms are bloodfeeding nematodes that reside in the intestinal mucosa. These parasites secrete proteins that induce robust systemic immune responses in humans and experimental animals. By contrast, mucosal immune responses in and around the site of attachment are not described as well. This paper presents data from studies aimed at examining hookworm-specific mucosal antibody responses in a hamster model of Ancylostoma ceylanicum infection. Intestinal flush prepared from infected hamsters was analysed by ELISA and shown to be enriched in IgA-specific for A. ceylanicum excretory–secretory (ES) products. Evaluation of mucosal IgA responses by immunoblot demonstrated that infected hamsters recognized a broad range of ES proteins. Hamsters repeatedly exposed to drug-terminated infections were shown to have enhanced serum IgG and mucosal IgA responses, as well as a high level of protection from challenge infection. Parasite-specific IgA was also detected in the faeces of hamsters undergoing a primary infection, and increasing faecal IgA responses were coincident with significant reductions in intestinal worm burdens and faecal ES output over time. Together these results suggest that secretory IgA may act in concert with other components of the mucosal and systemic immune response to promote protective immunity against hookworm infection and/or disease.
Assessment of physiological integrity of sonicated retinal rod membranes

As the size of rod membrane fragments was reduced by sonication or by addition of the detergent Emulphogene, the intensity of the circular dichroism (CD) bands (210 and 221 nm) increased progressively with a blue shift in position. The intensity of the visible CD bands (340 and 495 nm) was also increased by sonication. Since the intensity increase of the CD bands was related to a reduction in turbidity, the anomalous CD features of intact membranes could be attributed to optical artifacts caused by the particulate nature of the material. Because the magnitude of the CD bands at 221 nm and 340 nm was essentially identical for the sonic suspension and detergent-clarified solution, the adequacy of sonic suspensions can be assured by checking whether detergent affects the intensity of these bands. Suspensions of sonicated rod membranes, purified on Agarose, contained vesicles of 112 nm in average diameter. The morphology and size of the vesicles did not change upon photobleaching of rhodopsin. The vesicles retained such rod membrane properties as conformational insensitivity to photobleaching of the retinal chromophore, thermal stability, and pigment regenerability. Thus, the physiological integrity of rod membranes was maintained by the sonicated vesicles. From the most reliable estimate of the molecular ellipticity at 221 nm, the helical content of membrane-bound rhodopsin was determined to be approximately 47%.
An asymptotic-numerical method for a model system with turning points

Abstract We discuss a numerical method for solving a perturbed nonlinear system with turning points that consists in replacing the continuous problem with a sequence of constant coefficient problems on abutting intervals. Asymptotic analysis is then used to show that, for a fixed stepsize, the solutions of the approximate problems accurately represent the true solution as the perturbation parameter tends to zero.
Electronic states in disordered alloys: Comparison of methods

The history of the development of techniques for calculating the electronic states of disordered systems is reviewed and illustrated with the help of model calculations. The position of the coherent potential approximation in this development is pointed out.
Identification of ionizable amino acid residues on the extracellular domain of the lutropin receptor involved in ligand binding.

The LH receptor (LHR) is a G protein-coupled receptor characterized by a relatively large N-terminal extracellular domain responsible for high affinity ligand binding. Based on a model proposed for a major portion of the extracellular domain that contains a number of leucine-rich repeats, nine ionizable amino acid residues (Glu57, Glu80, Lys158, Glu181, Lys183, Glu184, Glu188, Lys190, and Asp206) were selected for charge reversal mutagenesis based on their locations in the proposed model and their potential to serve as ligand contact sites. Mutant LHR complementary DNAs were transiently transfected into COS-7 cells, and the expressed receptors were characterized by Western blot analysis, competitive ligand (hCG) binding, and ligand-mediated cAMP production. The most interesting mutants were K158E, K183E, E184K, and D206K, which were present on the plasma membrane fraction, as judged by Western blots, but were incapable of binding hCG and, of course, were deficient in hCG-mediated cAMP production. Other re...
Intensive Lowering of Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Levels for Primary Prevention of Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States, and a high concentration of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is a major risk factor for CAD. Current guidelines recommend the use of statins to lower LDL-C levels for the primary prevention of CAD based on an individual's risk factor profile and baseline LDL-C level. For moderaterisk individuals, those with 2 or more major risk factors for CAD and a Framingham risk score of 10% to 20%, the recommendation is to use a statin to lower LDL-C levels to less than 130 mg/dL. However, up to 40% of individuals who develop CAD have LDL-C levels lower than this cutoff. In 2004, the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III guidelines were updated to include an LDL-C goal of less than 100 mg/dL for individuals at moderately high risk of developing CAD. The guidelines identified several risk factors that when present would favor the use of pharmacological therapy to achieve this more aggressive LDL-C goal. This review evaluates the evidence supporting an LDL-C target of less than 100 mg/dL for moderately high-risk individuals and reviews those risk factors that when present help identify patients who would benefit from achieving this lower LDL-C goal. English-language publications in MEDLINE and references from relevant articles published between January 1, 1980, and November 30, 2008, were reviewed. Main keywords searched were coronary artery disease, hyperlipidemia, statins, cardiac risk factors, inflammatory markers, metabolic syndrome, and coronary artery calcium.
Reciprocal negotiation over shared resources in agent societies

We are interested in domains where an agent repeatedly negotiates with other agents over shared resources where the demand or utility to the agent for the shared resources vary over time. We propose a protocol that will maximize social welfare if agents reveal their true preferences in every negotiation. The protocol, however, is not truth-revealing and selfish agents have the incentive to artificially inflate preferences. We use a probabilistic reciprocative behavior that discourages the reporting of false preferences. This reciprocative behavior promotes cooperation in repeated negotiations and improves both individual and group long-term payoff. We characterize environmental conditions under which agents can develop and sustain mutually beneficial relationships with similar agents and avoid exploitation by different types of selfish agents.
Minimal model for the mechanism of antibody induction and paralysis by antigen.

Immunological paralysis occurs when one antigenic determinant binds to one receptor antibody on an antigen sensitive cell, whereas induction requires the stretching of that receptor on binding two identical determinants held together by carrier antibody.
Identification of Two Repressor Elements in the Mouse α2(I) Collagen Promoter

Abstract We recently identified three areas of Sp1 binding located between −568 and −453 of the 5′ flanking region of the murine α 2 (I) collagen promoter which are necessary for optimal activity. We now identify two additional regions of Sp1 binding located at −371 to −351 (region 4) and at −690 to −613 (region 5), which when mutated increased promoter activity in transfected rat hepatic stellate cells indicating they contain negative regulatory elements. AP-2 bound to region 4 while YY1 bound most strongly to region 5. AP-2 decreased Sp1 binding to region 4 and had a dual effect on Sp1 binding to region 5 decreasing and increasing Sp1 binding at low and high concentrations of AP-2, respectively. YY1 enhanced Sp1 binding to both regions. AP-2 inhibited or enhanced the stimulatory effect of a transfected Sp1 expression vector on the α 2 (I) collagen promoter in Drosophila cells at low or high AP-2 expression, respectively. YY1 enhanced or inhibited the activation of the promoter by low or high Sp1 expression, respectively. This study identifies two negative regulatory elements in the murine α 2 (I) collagen promoter and shows that AP-2 and YY1 interact with Sp1 at these sites and can inhibit the activating action of Sp1.
Hurricane katrina disaster diplomacy

Hurricane Katrina struck the United States at the end of August 2005. The consequent devastation appeared to be beyond the US government's ability to cope with and aid was offered by several states in varying degrees of conflict with the US. Hurricane Katrina therefore became a potential case study for 'disaster diplomacy', which examines how disaster-related activities do and do not yield diplomatic gains. A review of past disaster diplomacy work is provided. The literature's case studies are then categorised using a new typology: propinquity, aid relationship, level and purpose. Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath are then placed in the context of the US government's foreign policy, the international response to the disaster and the US government's reaction to these responses. The evidence presented is used to discuss the potential implications of Hurricane Katrina disaster diplomacy, indicating that factors other than disaster-related activities generally dominate diplomatic relations and foreign policy.
The Vecchietti operation for constructing a neovagina : Indications, instrumentation, and techniques

The Vecchietti method is a surgical technique for the treatment of vaginal agenesis that constructs a dilation-type neovagina in 7-9 days. We have performed the Vecchietti operation on six patients. The method was applied to create a primary neovagina, to lengthen a surgically foreshortened vagina, and to reconstruct an obliterated neovagina with or without the presence of a uterus. Two patients underwent the conventional transabdominal approach, and four, laparoscopy. Follow-up was 7-39 months, and neovaginal depth was 8.0-10.6 cm. The anatomic and functional results in all patients were excellent.
Repair of chronic radiation wounds of the pelvis.

Radiation therapy is currently utilized for primary or adjuvant therapy for pelvic tumors. Although improvements in radiation delivery techniques have largely eliminated acute complications in the radiation field, occurrences of late wound complications persist and result in complex pelvic and perineal wounds. Since these wounds reflect underlying impaired local circulations secondary to obliterative endarteritis, local wound management frequently fails either to control secondary infection or to allow spontaneous wound closure. Twenty-four patients with chronic pelvic wounds have recently undergone successful wound repair with use of muscle, musculocutaneous, and fasciocutaneous flaps. This review of these patients will demonstrate the physiologic basis for vascularized flaps for wound closure. Specific flap selection is based on the location of the pelvic radiation wound in the anterior pelvis and inguinal region, perineum and pelvic cavity, and sacrum. Well-vascularized flaps must have an independent source of circulation distant to the site of radiation damage for reliable wound coverage. Muscle and skin fascial flaps are available based on reliable pedicles located in the anterior abdominal wall, anterior and posterior thigh, and posterior pelvic region with adequate arc of rotation to cover most pelvic defects. Flaps frequently utilized in this study included: rectus femoris, rectus abdominis, gracilis, and gluteus maximus muscle and musculocutaneous flaps, and the gluteal thigh skin fascial flap. Wound debridement and simultaneous coverage with well-vascularized flaps have been established as a useful and reliable method to repair complex wounds of pelvic radiation necrosis.
Preparation and characterization of massive TH4H15 and Th4D15

Abstract The preparation of Th4H15 and Th4D15 at pressures of H2(D2) ranging from 6 × 107 to 8 × 107 Pa and temperatures from 800 to 900 °C was studied and the composition, structure and superconducting properties of the material produced were examined. In addition to pressure and temperature, the effects of variation of temperature gradient and rate of cooling were explored. Two modifications of the stoichiometric Th4H15 were found, differing in superconducting transition temperature by about 1 K. X-ray diffraction showed no difference in the structure of the Th lattice. A third modification exhibiting a tetragonal distortion of approximately 1% was observed with reversible uptake of water vapor of less than one H2O molecule per Th16H60 unit cell. This modification was not superconducting.
Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition and beta-adrenoceptor blockade regress established ventricular remodeling in a canine model of discrete myocardial damage

Abstract Objectives. This study was designed to assess the effect of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition and beta-adrenoreceptor blockade on established ventricular remodeling. Background. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor therapy attenuates the development of ventricular remodeling when given shortly after myocardial infarction. However, regression of established ventricular remodeling after infarction has received little attention. Methods. The relative effects of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor therapy and beta-adrenoceptor blockade on established ventricular remodeling were assessed in a canine model characterized by increased left ventricular mass and chamber dilation as a result of localized myocardial necrosis produced by transmyocardial direct current shock. Dogs were randomly assigned to 3 months of therapy with captopril (25 mg twice daily, n = 7) or metoprolol (100 mg twice daily, n = 7) or to a control group with no intervention (n = 6), 11 ± 4 (mean ± SD) months after acute myocardial damage. Results. Compared with the control group, dogs in both the captopril and metoprolol groups had reduced left ventricular mass as measured by magnetic resonance imaging (−8.1 ± 3.8 vs. 1.7 ± 2.8 g, p = 0.003 and −9.6 ± 5.6 vs. 1.7 ± 2.8 g, p = 0.001), respectively. Captopril and metoprolol also produced a reduction in left ventricular end-diastolic volume (−7.6 ± 6.0 and −6.0 ± 5.8 ml, respectively) compared with the control value (−1.6 ± 3.8 ml) (p = 0.14 [NS]). Both agents reduced mean arterial pressure but had disparate effects on pulmonary wedge pressure and right atrial pressure. There was no significant correlation between change in ventricular mass or volume and change in any measured hemodynamic or neurohormonal variable. Conclusions. These data suggest that pharmacologic intervention with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition or betaadrenoceptor blockade can result in regression of established ventricular remodeling. The mechanism of this response will require further study, but these data did not support a close association between regression of remodeling and hemodynamic unloading of the ventricle or systemic neuroendocrine factors.
Size-Constancy in the CAVE

The use of virtual environments (VE) for many research and commercial purposes relies on its ability to generate environments that faithfully reproduce the physical world. However, due to its limitations the VE can have a number of flaws that adversely affect its use and believability. One of the more important aspects of this problem is whether the size of an object in the VE is perceived as it would be in the physical world. One of the fundamental phenomena for correct size is size-constancy, that is, an object is perceived to be the same size regardless of its distance from the observer. This is in spite of the fact that the retinal size of the object shrinks with increasing distance from the observer. We examined size-constancy in the CAVE and found that size-constancy is a strong and dominant perception in our subject population when the test object is accompanied by surrounding environmental objects. Furthermore, size-constancy changes to a visual angle performance (i.e., object size changed with distance from the subject) when these surrounding objects are removed from the scene. As previously described for the physical world, our results suggest that it is necessary to provide surrounding objects to aid in the determination of an object's depth and to elicit size-constancy in VE. These results are discussed regarding their implications for viewing objects in projection-based VE and the environments that play a role in the perception of object size in the CAVE.
A Novel Role for Aquaporin-5 in Enhancing Microtubule Organization and Stability

Aquaporin-5 (AQP5) is a water-specific channel located on the apical surface of airway epithelial cells. In addition to regulating transcellular water permeability, AQP5 can regulate paracellular permeability, though the mechanisms by which this occurs have not been determined. Microtubules also regulate paracellular permeability. Here, we report that AQP5 promotes microtubule assembly and helps maintain the assembled microtubule steady state levels with slower turnover dynamics in cells. Specifically, reduced levels of AQP5 correlated with lower levels of assembled microtubules and decreased paracellular permeability. In contrast, overexpression of AQP5 increased assembly of microtubules, with evidence of increased MT stability, and promoted the formation of long straight microtubules in the apical domain of the epithelial cells. These findings indicate that AQP5-mediated regulation of microtubule dynamics modulates airway epithelial barrier properties and epithelial function.
S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine Hydrolase (Adenosine-Forming), a Conserved Bacterial and Archeal Protein Related to SAM-Dependent Halogenases

S-Adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) is a ubiquitous molecule that participates in various biochemical reactions, second only to ATP as the most frequently used enzyme substrate.[1] The recently described SAM-dependent halogenases involved in the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites in actinomycetes represent a new family of SAM-binding proteins[2, 3] that catalyze the nucleophilic displacement of L-methionine (L-met) from SAM with halides to form halogenated 5′-deoxyadenosine (5′-XDA).[4, 5] These enzymes belong to a family of over 100 archaeal and bacterial proteins with no assigned function (pfam 01887, DUF62). Here we report that a DUF62 member from the recently sequenced marine bacterium Salinispora arenicola CNS-205 (SaDUF62, Sare_1364, genome accession number NC_ 009953) has no significant halogenase, but instead SAM hydrolase (adenosine-forming) activity in vitro.
Value speculation scheduling for high performance processors

Recent research in value prediction shows a surprising amount of predictability for the values produced by register-writing instructions. Several hardware based value predictor designs have been proposed to exploit this predictability by eliminating flow dependencies for highly predictable values. This paper proposed a hardware and software based scheme for value speculation scheduling (VSS). Static VLIW scheduling techniques are used to speculate value dependent instructions by scheduling them above the instructions whose results they are dependent on. Prediction hardware is used to provide value predictions for allowing the execution of speculated instructions to continue. In the case of miss-predicted values, control flow is redirected to patch-up code so that execution can proceed with the correct results. In this paper, experiments in VSS for load operations in the SPECint95 benchmarks are performed. Speedup of up to 17% has been shown for using VSS. Empirical results on the value predictability of loads, based on value profiling data, are also provided.
Specialist and Generalist: Roles for Coping with Variability

Abstract Two behavior patterns of fishermen, specialist and generalist, are evaluated as ways of coping with market and natural variability. Changes in these behaviors predicted by an analytical model are evaluated against data from several fisheries. The predictions and the data suggest that a mix of specialist and generalist fishing behavior is a way of coping with unpredictability. Management usually regards fishing behavior as homogeneous; as a result, many management rules discriminate against one type of behavior or the other.
Muon Spin Depolarization in Metals with Dilute Magnetic Impurities

Muon diffusion can be studied in metals without nuclear moments by the addition of paramagnetic impurities. We describe the theory and report measurements of muon depolarization in gold and silver doped with gadolinium and erbium. As well as diffusion rates, strength of the magnetic interaction and spin lattice relaxation rate of the paramagnetic ion are inferred from the data.
Chinese and American women compared: experiences and opportunities in science and technology

Summary form only given. Reports on the interchange between the Women in Science Delegation of the USA and their Chinese counterparts, during a visit of the delegation to China in June 1999. This program was founded to establish and maintain interpersonal communication among members of the world community. The delegation met with numerous women in China. The aim of the Women in Science exchange was to contribute to the efforts to increase and encourage the participation of women in science by advocacy, education, research and program development. Included were technology reviews, site visits, a visit with a Chinese family, and discussions on the achievements and progress of women in science and technology. Remarkably, women today comprise 35% (or more than 80,000,000) of the Chinese scientific and technological workforce. This paper summarizes the author's observations made during the visit on the historical development, current professional opportunities, problems and difficulties, and the impact on organizational and societal life of Chinese women in science and technology. A particular focus is on women's role in the creation and manufacture of new technologies, in publishing and patenting as sole authors, in research and engineering management, and in technical organizations. Comparisons are made, along the same dimensions, with American women, based on the experiences of the author (and her colleagues), covering over 45 years of continuous work as a scientist and engineer and technical manager in industry and academia.
Source dependence and technology scaling effects on the radiation tolerance of SiGe HBTs at extreme dose and fluence levels

We investigate the response of SiGe HBTs exposed to high fluence and total dose levels of proton, neutron and gamma irradiation typically encountered in high energy physics experiments. The transistor radiation tolerance is evaluated via a comparison of excess base current, base current ideality, and current gain degradation. The results indicate that the observed device degradation may be dominated either by conventional SRH recombination or radiation-induced carrier tunneling, depending on the technology generation and radiation source.