cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fibrous obstruction within the left ventricular outflow tract associated with ventricular septal defect: A pathologic study

Objectives. We examined the nature of ridges within the left ventricular outflow tract associated with ventricular septal defects that might be found by echocardiography. Background. Echocardiography displays even small ridges well. Surgical removal of such ridges at the time of defect closure is recommended. Methods. We examined 37 heart specimens with ventricular septal defects with a ridge, noting its nature and relation to the defect and adjacent valves. We excluded left ventricular outflow tract obstruction associated with complex lesions. Results. Defects were perimembranous in 25 specimens, muscular in 8 and part of an atrioventricular septal defect in 5. Some hearts had multiple defects. Many of the original reports had not mentioned ridges. Three distinct ridge patterns were found. The first (n = 18) was a fold of endocardial tissue related to the membranous septum. The second (n = 12) was a defect of a fibrous nature; in 8 this was a discrete, protuberant fibrous ridge, and in 4 the obstruction was diffuse, which we termed keloidal. The third pattern (n = 7) lay circumferentially around the ventricular septal defect, seemingly associated with the defect's attempted spontaneous diminution in size. Endocardial folds were not found in specimens from patients > 5 years old. Fibrous and keloidal lesions, which may represent a continuum of progression, generally were found in specimens from older patients. Histologic studies of 17 specimens confirmed the morphologic findings. The endocardial folds were endothelial tissue, whereas the fibrous and keloidal ridges were of fibrous tissue, as were circumferential lesions. All specimens had mitral-semilunar valvular continuity. Conclusions. Endocardial fold and circumferential lesions appear to be benign. The endocardial folds arose from the membranous ventricular septum, were not protuberant and usually were found in younger patients. The fibrous ridges, in contrast, were protuberant and were always associated with the underlying muscle of the outlet septum. These pathologic distinctions may facilitate echocardiographic diagnosis and prognosis.
Escherichia coli E-39 ADPglucose synthetase has different activation kinetics from the wild-type allosteric enzyme.

Abstract Kinetic and binding studies have shown that Lys39 of Escherichia coli ADPglucose synthetase is involved in binding of the allosteric activator. In order to study structure—function relationships at the activator binding site, this lysine residue was substituted by glutamic acid (Lys39 → Glu) by site-directed mutagenesis. The resultant mutant enzyme (E-39) showed activation kinetics different from those of the wild-type enzyme. The level of activation of the E-39 enzyme by the major activators of E. coli ADPglucose synthetase, 2-phosphoglycerate, pyridoxal phosphate, and fructose-1,6-phosphatase was only approximately 2-fold compared to activation of 15- to 28-fold respectively, for the wild-type enzyme. NADPH, an activator of the wild-type enzyme, was unable to activate the mutant enzyme. In addition, the concentrations of the above activators necessary to obtain 50% of the maximal stimulation of enzyme activity (A0.5) were 5-, 9-, and 23-fold higher, respectively, than those for the wild-type enzyme. The E-39 enzyme also had a lower apparent affinity (S0.5) for the substrates ATP and MgCl2 than the wild-type enzyme and the values obtained in the presence or absence of activator were similar. The concentration of inhibitor giving 50% of enzyme activity (I0.5) was also similar for the E-39 enzyme in the presence or absence of activator. These results indicate that the E-39 mutant enzyme is not effectively activated by the major activators of the E. coli ADPglucose synthetase wild-type enzyme, and that this amino acid substitution also prevents the allosteric effect that the activator has on the wild-type enzyme kinetics, either increasing its apparent affinity for the substrates or modulating the enzyme's sensitivity to inhibition.
Degraded Collagen Fragments Promote Rapid Disassembly of Smooth Muscle Focal Adhesions That Correlates with Cleavage of Pp125FAK, Paxillin, and Talin

Active matrix metalloproteinases and degraded collagen are observed in disease states, such as atherosclerosis. To examine whether degraded collagen fragments have distinct effects on vascular smooth muscle cells (SMC), collagenase-digested type I collagen was added to cultured human arterial SMC. After addition of collagen fragments, adherent SMC lose their focal adhesion structures and round up. Analysis of components of the focal adhesion complex demonstrates rapid cleavage of the focal adhesion kinase (pp125FAK), paxillin, and talin. Cleavage is suppressed by inhibitors of the proteolytic enzyme, calpain I. In vitro translated pp125FAK is a substrate for both calpain I– and II–mediated processing. Mapping of the proteolytic cleavage fragments of pp125FAK predicts a dissociation of the focal adhesion targeting (FAT) sequence and second proline-rich domain from the tyrosine kinase domain and integrin-binding sequence. Coimmunoprecipitation studies confirm that the ability of pp125FAK to associate with paxillin, vinculin, and p130cas is significantly reduced in SMC treated with degraded collagen fragments. Further, there is a significant reduction in the association of intact pp125FAK with the cytoskeletal fraction, while pp125FAK cleavage fragments appear in the cytoplasm in SMC treated with degraded collagen fragments. Integrin-blocking studies indicate that integrin-mediated signals are involved in degraded collagen induction of pp125FAK cleavage. Thus, collagen fragments induce distinct integrin signals that lead to initiation of calpain-mediated cleavage of pp125FAK, paxillin, and talin and dissolution of the focal adhesion complex.
Alternative foot placements for individuals with spinal cord injuries standing with the assistance of functional neuromuscular stimulation

This study investigated the effects of altering foot placement for two individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI) that stood using functional neuromuscular stimulation (FNS) as compared to an able-bodied subject group. FNS-assisted standers used parallel bars as needed for support, while the able-bodied group stood hands-free. Three different foot placements were tested: side-by-side, wide, and modified tandem. For SCI subjects, the percentage of body weight loaded on the feet was not greatly affected by foot placement, which potentially could be altered to provide postural benefits during functional tasks. Anterior/posterior (A/P) center of pressure (COP) origins tended to be located more anterior in the base of support for SCI subjects as compared to able-bodied subjects. SCI subjects also tended to have medial/lateral (M/L) COP excursions that were larger than able-bodied subjects. The sacrum appeared to hold some promise as a sensor location for monitoring A/P postural sway, but movements in the M/L direction were inconsistent and will require additional study. General guidelines such as positioning the A/P COP more posterior in the base of support and feedback concerning excessive M/L COP displacements may be useful to improve standing performance for SCI subjects. In addition, the modified tandem placement was an effective alternative for making postural adjustments in one SCI subject who experienced excessive right knee flexion with other foot placements.
Jiazzi: new-age components for old-fasioned Java

We present Jiazzi, a system that enables the construction of large-scale binary components in Java. Jiazzi components can be thought of as generalizations of Java packages with added support for external linking and separate compilation. Jiazzi components are practical becuase they are constructed out of standard Java source code. Jiazzi requires neither extensions to the Java language nor special conventions for writing Java source code that will go inside a component. Our components are expressive becuase Jiazzi supports cyclic component linking and mixins, which are used together in an open class pattern that enables the modular addition of new features to existing classes. This paper describes Jiazzi, how it enhances Java with components, its implementation, and how type checking works. An implementation of Jiazzi is available for download.
Analyzing the performance of simultaneous generalized hill climbing algorithms

Simultaneous generalized hill climbing (SGHC) algorithms provide a framework for using heuristics to simultaneously address sets of intractable discrete optimization problems where information is shared between the problems during the algorithm execution. Many well-known heuristics can be embedded within the SGHC algorithm framework. This paper shows that the solutions generated by an SGHC algorithm are a stochastic process that satisfies the Markov property. This allows problem probability mass functions to be formulated for particular sets of problems based on the long-term behavior of the algorithm. Such results can be used to determine the proportion of iterations that an SGHC algorithm will spend optimizing over each discrete optimization problem. Sufficient conditions that guarantee that the algorithm spends an equal number of iterations in each discrete optimization problem are provided. SGHC algorithms can also be formulated such that the overall performance of the algorithm is independent of the initial discrete optimization problem chosen. Sufficient conditions are obtained guaranteeing that an SGHC algorithm will visit the globally optimal solution for each discrete optimization problem. Lastly, rates of convergence for SGHC algorithms are reported that show that given a rate of convergence for the embedded GHC algorithm, the SGHC algorithm can be designed to preserve this rate.
Frictional heating and the stability of rate and state dependent frictional sliding

Numerous laboratory experiments have found that the coefficient of friction of simulated faults depends both on the instantaneous sliding velocity and on a state variable that represents the previous sliding history. The coefficient of friction is typically given as μ = μ0+a1n( V/V0) + b1n( ψ/ψ0) where μ0, V0, ψ0, a, and b are constants, V is the sliding velocity and ψ is the state variable. The time derivative of the state variable is often given by an expression of the form 1/t0-ψV/Dc where t0 is a constant with dimensions of time and Dc is a critical displacement. The stiffness of a one-dimensional system must be less than the effective normal traction times (b-a)/Dc for instability to occur. Temperature increase from frictional heating expands pore fluid, increasing its pressure and decreasing the effective stress on a sealed fault plane. The amount of temperature change depends on heat conduction into the country rock from the planar heat source of the fault zone. The apparent value of the coefficient a is decreased by an amount that depends on the square root of elapsed time of an oscillation from steady-state. Systems which are close to the stability limit and/or have large characteristic times Dc/Vp, where Vp is the long term slip velocity, exhibit slow evolution in the absence of frictional heating and thus are significantly affected by frictional heating. In real faults, the effects of frictional heating at slow creep rates may conceivably be overwhelmed by those of compaction, dilation, hydrofracture, and fluid flow.
Changing patterns of land use in a decentralizing metropolis

Changing patterns of land use from 1956 to 1970 in metropolitan Chicago are examined using two surveys of land use. Beyond eight miles to the CBD, the changes in land use reflect the process of suburbanization. Within four miles of the CBD, the vacancy rate increased and residential, manufacturing, and commercial use declined. Between four and eight miles from the CBD, the vacancy rate decreased and residential use increased, but manufacturing and commercial use decreased.
Synthesis of engineered particulates with tailored properties using dry particle coating

Abstract Dry particle coating is used to create new-generation materials by combining different powders having different physical and chemical properties to form composites, which show new functionality or improve the characteristics of known materials. Materials with relatively large particle size (1–200 μm) form a core and these core (host) particles are mechanically coated with fine submicron (guest) particles; no liquid of any kind (solvents, binders or water) is required. A number of different devices used to achieve dry particle coating are reviewed. The fundamental mechanisms by which these devices achieve coating are discussed, and many examples of coated particles produced by these methods in our laboratory, as well as by other researchers, are described. Attempts to model some of these processes, so as to be able to predict suitable operating conditions and processing times for different host and guest particle properties, are also described. A theoretical predictive capability is necessary, not only to determine which of the devices would give the best results in a specific application, but also for scale-up and optimization. Based on our research, we believe that dry coating is a viable alternative to wet coating and can be used successfully for certain applications where wet coating processes are not feasible.
NAME AND FACIAL FEATURE STEREOTYPING

25 names and faces which had been previously scaled with respect to perceived degree of masculinity-femininity were presented to 28 Ss whose task was to match the name which seemed most appropriate...
A model for management of patients with stroke during the acute phase. Outcome and economic implications.

The purpose of the study was to develop a clinical pathway for patients with nonhemorrhagic stroke during the acute hospital phase to improve the quality of care and reduce costs.The pathway included standard admission orders and a swallow screen on day 1 of hospitalization. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and social worker assessments were done on day 2. A physiatry consult was performed on day 3 if indicated, and by day 4 a discharge target date and disposition were addressed.Outcomes for 121 patients during the first year of pathway implementation are reported. The average length of stay on the acute service decreased from 10.9 days to 7.3 days (P < .05), reducing the charges per patient by 14.6%. Complications in the form of urinary tract infections and aspiration pneumonia rates decreased by 63.2% (P < .05) and 38.7%, respectively.We conclude that the implementation of a clinical pathway for patients with acute, nonhemorrhagic stroke resulted in a significant reduction in leng...
Sulphated glycosaminoglycan synthesis by developing rat submandibular gland secretory units

This study examined the profile of S-GAGs synthesized by presecretory and secretory units isolated from rats at 17, 18 and 21 days in utero and 1, 6 and 35 days after birth. The units were incubated for 2 h in medium containing [35S]-sodium sulphate and then processed and analysed. Secretory units from 17-day embryonic presecretory units produced a S-GAG profile composed of approx. 73% chondroitin sulphate and 26% heparan sulphate. When cells of the embryonic units undergo cytodifferentiation to become secretory cells (18 days in utero), there is a major change in the relative amounts of S-GAG synthesized with 54% of the S-GAG produced being heparan sulphate and 41% chondroitin sulphate. There is a progressive increase in the relative amount of heparan sulphate produced and a concomitant decline in chondroitin sulphate as the secretory compartment of the gland matures. By 35 days after birth, the secretory units produced a S-GAG profile that was greater than 85% heparan sulphate and less than 10% chondroitin sulphate. The ratio of heparan sulphate/chondroitin sulphate production was 0.36 by 17-day embryonic presecretory units and shifted to 9.1 by 35-day postnatal units.
Ferromagnetic resonance of uncoupled and coupled ultra-thin films of Fe

Abstract The ferromagnetic resonances of iron films, separated by thin layers of carbon, changed when the C thicknesses were made less than 1.0 nm. The data are better explained by changes in magnetizations than by exchange coupling through the C.
Classification of osteoporosis and osteopenia in postmenopausal women is dependent on site-specific analysis.

Abstract Despite the availability of guidelines from the World Health Organization study group for the classification of osteoporosis in postmenopausal Caucasian women, confusion still exists about the number of sites used for diagnosis and the clinical utility of peripheral bone mass assessments. To examine the diagnosis of osteoporosis and osteopenia based on bone density measurements at single or multiple sites using central and peripheral measurements, we studied 115 ambulatory, community-dwelling, Caucasian postmenopausal women. Bone mineral density of the hip, PA spine, forearm, and finger were assessed by dual X-ray absorptiometry. Bone mass of the calcaneus was obtained using ultrasound. The diagnosis of osteoporosis based on a single measurement varied from 4% using the trochanteric region to 34% using Ward's triangle, 17% using the calcaneus, and 13% using the finger. Twenty-eight percent of the women had osteoporosis if the diagnosis was based on at least one osteoporotic value at three standard central sites (PA spine, total hip, femoral neck). Among these women, using T -scores provided by the manufacturers, 16% of osteoporotic patients would be misclassified as normal using the Sahara Clinical Bone Sonometer® (Hologic, Waltham, MA) (heel) and 34% misclassified using the accuDEXA® (Schick, New York, NY) (finger). We conclude that there is significant variability in the classification of osteoporosis based on site selection, with significant potential for misdiagnosis.
The Aorfix AAA Endograft in Highly Angulated Aortic Necks: Performance in the Pythagoras U.S. Clinical Trial

Conclusions: Our analysis demonstrates that significantly elevated U/S velocity ratios >3.5 are strongly correlated with graft failure and also that low and even moderate CT stenosis correlate with graft success. We show that a moderately elevated U/S velocity ratio in the 2 to 3.5 range is largely clinically benign, with few of these grafts ultimately failing and that velocity ratios for this group tend to improve with time. This is a step toward defining the relationship between imaging and outcome for vein grafts, an understanding of which will likely contribute to the establishment of the optimal strategy for graft monitoring.
Genetic factors in human breast cancer

The apparent environmental risk factors for breast cancer in human populations have been previously reviewed in an anthropological context. Most epidemiologic studies have been concerned with breast cancer at the population level rather than at the level of high-risk families. Thus, the genetic factors in human breast cancer have not yet been clearly defined, and the genetic form(s) of breast cancer have not been clearly distinguished from breast cancer in the general population. Despite this lack of specificity, family history appears to be the single most influential risk factor for breast cancer in human populations. A subset of breast cancer cases, among populations both at low risk and high risk of developing cancer, that appear to be under genetic influence, are identified. The heritable form(s) can be characterized and distinguished from the overall pattern of breast cancer in the general population. Observations at the population level appear to be consistent with a role for genetic factors in the development of breast cancer. Recent evidence also suggests that the heritable form(s) of breast cancer are influenced by a single, autosomal dominant gene. Linkage relationships may exist between genetic markers that are close to this susceptibility gene. New methodologies determine the direction of future anthropological studies of breast cancer susceptibility and of strategies for prevention.
Memory of children's faces by adults: Appearance does matter

Accurately detecting faces of children when their appearance has been altered is especially important in recognizing abducted or missing child. Face recognition studies have focussed on recognizing the adult perpetrator; however, there is lack of research on recognizing a child's face under different appearances. Two studies were conducted to determine what type of photos may increase recognition of missing children. In Experiment 1 participants were shown pictures of children's faces in a study phase in which their faces were either dirtied with negative affect or clean with positive affect, followed by a recognition phase. Accuracy and confidence were higher when the face at recognition was the same type as in the study phase. Experiment 2 replicated Experiment 1, adding four delay conditions: 10-minute interval (10-MI), 3, 6 or 12 week. Accuracy and confidence decreased over time and we again found a significant interaction between face at study and face at recognition. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Language: en
The Effects of Inner-Liquid Motion on LNG Vessel Responses

The coupling and interactions between ship motion and inner-tank sloshing are investigated by a potential-viscous hybrid method in the time domain. For the time-domain simulation of vessel motion, the hydrodynamic coefficients and wave forces are obtained by a potential-theory-based 3D diffraction/radiation panel program in the frequency domain. Then, the corresponding simulations of motions in the time domain are carried out using the convolution-integral method. The liquid sloshing in a tank is simulated in the time domain by a Navier–Stokes solver. A finite difference method with SURF scheme assuming the single-valued free-surface profile is applied for the direct simulation of liquid sloshing. The computed sloshing forces and moments are then applied as external excitations to the ship motion. The calculated ship motion is in turn inputted as the excitation for liquid sloshing, which is repeated for the ensuing time steps. For comparison, we independently developed a 3D panel program for linear inner-fluid motions, and it is coupled with the vessel-motion program in the frequency domain. The developed computer programs are applied to a barge-type floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) hull equipped with two partially filled tanks. The time-domain simulation results show reasonably good agreement when compared with Maritime Research Institute Netherlands (MARIN’s) experimental results. The frequency-domain results qualitatively reproduce the trend of coupling effects, but the peaks are in general overpredicted. It is seen that the coupling effects on roll motions appreciably change with filling level. The most pronounced coupling effects on roll motions are the shift or split of peak frequencies. The pitch motions are much less influenced by the inner-fluid motion compared with roll motions.
Longevity and temperature response of pollen as affected by elevated growth temperature and carbon dioxide in peanut and grain sorghum

Abstract It is important to understand the effects of environmental conditions during plant growth on longevity and temperature response of pollen. Objectives of this study were to determine the influence of growth temperature and/or carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration on pollen longevity and temperature response of peanut and grain sorghum pollen. Plants were grown at daytime maximum/nighttime minimum temperatures of 32/22, 36/26, 40/30 and 44/34 °C at ambient (350 μmol mol−1) and at elevated (700 μmol mol−1) CO2 from emergence to maturity. At flowering, pollen longevity was estimated by measuring in vitro pollen germination at different time intervals after anther dehiscence. Temperature response of pollen was measured by germinating pollen on artificial growth medium at temperatures ranging from 12 to 48 °C in incubators at 4 °C intervals. Elevated growth temperature decreased pollen germination percentage in both crop species. Sorghum pollen had shorter longevity than peanut pollen. There was no influence of CO2 on pollen longevity. Pollen longevity of sorghum at 36/26 °C was about 2 h shorter than at 32/22 °C. There was no effect of growth temperature or CO2 on cardinal temperatures (Tmin, Topt, and Tmax) of pollen in both crop species. The Tmin, Topt, and Tmax identified at different growth temperatures and CO2 levels were similar at 14.9, 30.1, and 45.6 °C, respectively for peanut pollen. The corresponding values for sorghum pollen were 17.2, 29.4, and 41.7 °C. In conclusion, pollen longevity and pollen germination percentage was decreased by growth at elevated temperature, and pollen developed at elevated temperature and/or elevated CO2 did not have greater temperature tolerance.
A model for self‐regulated distance language learning

The role of learner autonomy and self‐regulated learning in distance education has received much attention. The application of these concepts impacts course design and, potentially, learner achievement. In the case of distance language learning, course designers must consider not only how to help learners gain communicative competence but also language learner strategies that support success. Although the concepts of autonomy and self‐regulated learning share some similarities, they have been variously defined and applied to distance education. Current research and discussion has not synthesized the ways in which these factors can be more fully utilized to improve distance education. Based on a critical review and synthesis of the literature on autonomy and self‐regulation, this article contributes a new model for distance language learning. The model provides guidance for course designers and assists instructors in supporting their students.
Adjective Generation Technique: Assessment Measure for Training in Progressive Relaxation

St~mmary.-The sensitivity of the Adjective Generation Technique to changes in anxiety following a progressive relaxation session was described for 13 undergraduates who reported significantly less anxiety following a relaxation procedure. Scores correlated .79 with the Spielberger State Anxiety Scale. The advantages of using the adjective technique for assessing the effectiveness of relaxation uaining were discussed.
Role of airway epithelial injury in murine orthotopic tracheal allograft rejection.

Background Murine tracheal transplantation is a model used to study bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome, a major cause of morbidity and mortality after lung transplantation. Unlike murine heterotopic tracheal transplants, orthotopic transplantation does not cause luminal obliteration despite major histocompatibility antigen mismatch. Repopulation of the tracheal allografts with recipient-derived epithelium confers protection against luminal obliteration. The purpose of this study was to determine whether (1) orthotopic tracheal transplantation showed signs of allograft rejection, and (2) airway epithelial cell injury promoted orthotopic tracheal allograft rejection. Methods Forty isogeneic (C57BL/6 to C57BL/6) and 40 allogeneic (BALB/c to C57BL/6) orthotopic tracheal transplants were performed. Damage to airway epithelial cells was induced by Sendai viral (SdV) infection and tracheal transplantation into non–reepithelializing matrix metalloproteinase-7 knockout (MMP7-KO) recipient mice. Percent fibrosis and lamina propria to cartilage ratio were calculated with computer assistance on harvested allografts. Results Allografts showed significantly more intramural fibrosis compared with isografts at 30, 60, and 180 days after transplant without luminal occlusion. Tracheal allografts infected with SdV showed an increase in fibrosis and lamina propria to cartilage ratio compared with noninfected controls. Allografts retrieved from MMP7-KO recipients also showed a significant increase in fibrosis and lamina propria to cartilage ratio. Conclusions Although orthotopic tracheal transplantation does not cause luminal obliteration, it results in increased fibrosis in allografts. Damage to the respiratory epithelium by viral infection or defective reepithelialization after transplant as seen in MMP7-KO recipient mice leads to changes consistent with chronic allograft rejection, suggesting a role for epithelial injury in bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome development.
Neuromuscular disease and calcium channels.

Calcium channels that are regulated by voltage have an important role in linking cellular stimulation to physiological responses in the nervous system. In addition, a number of autoimmune or genetic disorders that affect calcium channels (channelopathies) have been identified, including several that affect neuromuscular function. These include the Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome, which is associated with autoantibodies directed against neuronal calcium channels, as well as at least two inherited neuromuscular diseases-hypokalemic periodic paralysis and some varieties of malignant hyperthermia-that affect calcium channels in skeletal muscle. Preliminary progress has been achieved in understanding the relationship between these immunological or genetic abnormalities and the alterations in channel function that they produce. A major challenge that remains is to determine how calcium channelopathies lead to the curious assortment of paroxysmal and progressive disorders that are observed clinically.
Behavioral consequences of ovarian atrophy and estrogen replacement in the APPswe mouse

Abstract Cognitive performance was evaluated in a longitudinal study of APPswe2576 transgenic mice (APP) and a wildtype (WT) comparison group. Subgroups of the APP mice were treated with the ovarian toxicant 4-vinylcyclo-hexene diepoxide (VCD) at 60–75 days of age to induce ovarian atrophy and/or given estrogen (estradiol, 4 μg/day) continuously by pellet from 76 days of age. APP mice had a generally poorer radial maze performance than WT at 4.5, 7.5, 10.5 and 15 months of age. In separate tests, APP mice had a slight motor impairment, higher incidence of homecage stereotypy, hyperactivity in an open field and reduced object exploration relative to the WT group. Ovarian atrophy led to better maze performance at 7.5 months. The effect of estrogen on maze performance with aging could not be effectively evaluated due to poor survival (30%) of these mice. No effects of ovarian atrophy or estrogen treatment were identified for amyloid-beta accumulation or plaque formation at 15 months. Long-term longitudinal studies in animal models are needed to explore the consequences of menopause and hormone replacement on Alzheimer's disease, but they are complicated by considerations of survival, pre-aging deficits, testing experience and selection of appropriate estrogen treatment levels.
Hematogones are markedly decreased in chronic myeloid leukemia: multiparametric flow cytometric analysis

Past studies have shown decreased hematogones in the bone marrow of patients with myelodysplastic syndromes and acquired aplastic anemia. In this study, we examined the bone marrow of patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (n = 33, mean age 49 years, age range 2-83 years) for the presence of hematogones and compared their frequency with that of age-matched controls (n = 50). We found that the percentages of total and stage I hematogones were decreased in chronic myeloid leukemia at diagnosis (n = 25) and at follow-up post therapy (n = 8) when compared to age-matched controls (diagnosis, total: 0.29% vs. 0.87%, p = 0.001; diagnosis, stage I: 0.06% vs. 0.20%, p = 0.008; follow-up, total: 0.17% vs. 0.87%, p < 0.001; follow-up, stage I: 0.04 vs. 0.20, p = 0.003). We also found a significant decrease in the number of natural killer cells in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia at diagnosis. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the mechanism of hematogone decrease in chronic myeloid leukemia and whether this finding also applies to other myeloproliferative neoplasms.
Floral development, stigma receptivity and pollen viability in eight Nolana (Solanaceae) species

Nolana L.f. is a large, diverse genus in the Solanaceae endemic to the coastal deserts of Peru and Chile. Floral development studies were conducted in eight species (Nolana adansonii, N. aticoana, N. elegans, N. humifusa, N. ivaniana, N. laxa, N. plicata, and N. rupicola) as a precursor to breeding efforts and studies of interspecific sexual compatibility. Levels of stigma receptivity and pollen viability were evaluated at different stages during flower development. Species were found to be receptive to pollination over a wide range of floral developmental stages, including stages prior to anthesis. Pollen was found to remain viable throughout the open flower period and into senescence. Floral development keys were developed which provide a visual reference correlating morphological appearance of buds and flowers of each species at each developmental stage, and their corresponding durations and levels of stigma receptivity.
The effect of particle - matrix adhesion on the mechanical behavior of glass filled epoxies: Part 1. A study on yield behavior and cohesive strength

Basic properties of glass filled epoxy such as yield behavior and cohesive strength, which are important in understanding toughening mechanism, are studied using compression tests and double notch 4 point bending (DN-4PB) tests. Three different glass reinforcements, large glass spheres, small glass spheres, and glass fibers, were treated by different methods and used at different volume fractions ranging from 10 to 30 vol%. The effect of different surface treatments and moisture exposure on the yield behavior is studied. It was found that in all types of formulation the yield stress decreased after moisture exposure and that the yield stress was dependent on the surface treatment both before and after moisture exposure. No treatment and treatment of glass reinforcements with aminopropyltrimethoxysilane coupling agent resulted in relatively higher yield stress. Close observation of microstructure by transmission OM showed that the degree of debonding in the specimens for compression tests was quite dependent on the surface treatment after moisture exposure. The decrease in cohesive strength of the neat specimens were observed after moisture exposure.
Optical Imaging of Contrast Response in Macaque Monkey V1 and V2

Our studies on brightness information processing in Macaque monkey visual cortex suggest that the thin stripes in the secondary visual area (V2) are preferentially activated by brightness stimuli (such as full field luminance modulation and illusory edge-induced brightness modulation). To further examine this possibility, we used intrinsic signal optical imaging to examine contrast response of different functional domains in primary and secondary visual areas (V1 and V2). Color and orientation stimuli were used to map functional domains in V1 (color domains, orientation domains) and V2 (thin stripes, thick/pale stripes). To examine contrast response, sinusoidal gratings at different contrasts and spatial frequencies were presented. We find that, consistent with previous studies, the optical signal increased systematically with contrast level. Unlike single-unit responses, optical signals for both color domains and orientation domains in V1 exhibit linear contrast response functions, thereby providing a large dynamic range for V1 contrast response. In contrast to domains in V1, domains in V2 exhibit nonlinear responses, characterized by high gain at low contrasts, saturating at a mid-high contrast levels. At high contrasts, thin stripes exhibit increasing response, whereas thick/pale stripes saturate, consistent with a strong parvocellular input to thin stripes. These findings suggest that, with respect to contrast encoding, thin stripes have a larger dynamic range than thick/pale stripes and further support a role for thin stripes in processing of brightness information.
Mobilization of Stored Iron in Mammals: A Review

From the nutritional standpoint, several aspects of the biochemistry and physiology of iron are unique. In stark contrast to most other elements, most of the iron in mammals is in the blood attached to red blood cell hemoglobin and transporting oxygen to cells for oxidative phosphorylation and other purposes. Controlled and uncontrolled blood loss thus has a major impact on iron availability. Also, in contrast to most other nutrients, iron is poorly absorbed and poorly excreted. Moreover, amounts absorbed (~1 mg/day in adults) are much less than the total iron (~20 mg/day) cycling into and out of hemoglobin, involving bone marrow erythropoiesis and reticuloendothelial cell degradation of aged red cells. In the face of uncertainties in iron bioavailability, the mammalian organism has evolved a complex system to retain and store iron not immediately in use, and to make that iron available when and where it is needed. Iron is stored innocuously in the large hollow protein, ferritin, particularly in cells of the liver, spleen and bone marrow. Our current understanding of the molecular, cellular and physiological mechanisms by which this stored iron in ferritin is mobilized and distributed—within the cell or to other organs—is the subject of this review.
Role of peroxynitrite in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular complications of diabetes

Hyperglycemic episodes, which complicate even well-controlled cases of diabetes, lead to increased polyol pathway flux, activation of protein kinase C and accelerated non-enzymatic formation of advanced glycation end products. Many of these pathways become activated in response to the production of superoxide anion. Superoxide can interact with nitric oxide, forming the potent cytotoxin peroxynitrite. Peroxynitrite attacks various biomolecules in the vascular endothelium, vascular smooth muscle and myocardium, eventually leading to cardiovascular dysfunction via multiple mechanisms. This review focuses on emerging evidence suggesting that peroxynitrite plays a key role in the pathogenesis of the cardiovascular complications of diabetes, which underlie the development and progression of diabetic retinopathy, neuropathy and nephropathy.
The Internalization of Political Values in Stateless Societies

The purpose of this paper is to suggest the following proposition: To understand and predict the contemporary political behavior of African peoples who were stateless prior to Western contact, one must take account of the traditional political values involved in their local authority systems, particularly since such values continue to be internalized by new generations after their society has come under the administration of a modern nation-state. Most anthropological students of stateless societies have concentrated their attention on the total-society level, analyzing the structure of intergroup relations in the absence of a central authority. In my opinion, a concept such as "segmentary society," which is at the total-society level of analysis, is an inadequate tool for the investigation of political variation and adaptation in African societies. To illustrate this point, I shall compare political behavior in two East African societies having segmentary lineage systems: the Gusii of Kenya, among whom I...
From Crackertown to Model City? Urban Renewal and Community Building in Atlanta, 1963—1966

This article uses Atlanta as a case study to examine how proponents of two visions of urban renewal came into conflict in the mid-1960s. Atlanta's mayor, aldermen, and city planners, in conjunction...
Miniemulsion copolymerization of styrene-methyl methacrylate: Effect of transport phenomena

The mechanisms of mass transfer between miniemulsion droplets and polymer particles in the miniemulsion copolymerization of styrene-methyl methacrylate were studied. A mathematical model was developed for the process. This model includes the mass transfer of highly water-insoluble compounds from miniemulsion droplets to polymer particles by both molecular diffusion and collision between droplets and particles. According to previous results, the concentration of the monomers in the different phases were assumed to be under thermodynamic equilibrium. Both homogeneous nucleation and heterogeneous nucleation were accounted for. The mathematical model also includes the calculation of the average number of radicals per particle when a mixture of oil-soluble initiator and water-soluble initiator was used. This model was used to analyze a previously reported experimental result of seeded copolymerizations carried out in the presence of miniemulsion droplets containing a water-insoluble inhibitor at different stirring speeds. The simulation results indicated that at 30 rpm, about 66% of the mass transfer of the highly water-insoluble inhibitor occurred by diffusion and the rest by collision. On the other hand, at 120 rpm only about 20% of the inhibitor's mass transfer was by molecular diffusion, whereas 80% occurred by collision.
Causal Regularities in the Biological World of Contingent Distributions

Former discussions of biological generalizations have focused on the question of whether there are universal laws’ of biology. These discussions typically analyzed generalizations out of their investigative and explanatory contexts and concluded that whatever biological generalizations are, they are not universal laws. The aim of this paper is to explain what biological generalizations are by shifting attention towards the contexts in which they are drawn. I argue that within the context of any particular biological explanation or investigation, biologists employ two types of generations. One type identifies causal regularities exhibited by particular kinds of biological entities. The other type identifies how these entities are distributed in the biological world.
The independent and combined effects of intensive weight loss and exercise training on bone mineral density in overweight and obese older adults with osteoarthritis

Summary Objective To determine the effects of dietary-induced weight loss (D) and weight loss plus exercise (D + E) compared to exercise alone (E) on bone mineral density (BMD) in older adults with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Design Data come from 284 older (66.0 ± 6.2 years), overweight/obese (body mass index (BMI) 33.4 ± 3.7 kg/m 2 ), adults with knee OA enrolled in the Intensive Diet and Exercise for Arthritis (IDEA) study. Participants were randomized to 18 months of walking and strength training (E; n = 95), dietary-induced weight loss targeting 10% of baseline weight (D; n = 88) or a combination of the two (D + E; n = 101). Body weight and composition (DXA), regional BMD, were obtained at baseline and 18 months. Results E, D, and D + E groups lost 1.3 ± 4.5 kg, 9.1 ± 8.6 kg and 10.4 ± 8.0 kg, respectively ( P P r = 0.21 and 0.54 respectively, both P ≤ 0.01). Conclusions Weight loss via an intensive dietary intervention, with or without exercise, results in bone loss at the hip and femoral neck in overweight and obese, older adults with OA. Although the exercise intervention did not attenuate weight loss-associated reductions in BMD, classification of osteoporosis and osteopenia remained unchanged. Clinical trial registration number NCT00381290.
Motivational Typology of Reentry Women

The purpose of this study was to determine whether motives for returning to college among undergraduate reentry women could be grouped into patterns and whether these reentry women could be grouped by motive-types. In this replication of an earlier study by Maslin (1978), the 70-item Continuing Education Women Motives Questionnaire was administered to 100 undergraduate reentry women aged 25 and older enrolled in a degree or certificate program in higher education. Data were treated using a principal components factor analysis with Varimax rotation after Kaiser normalization, and typal analysis. Eight distinct motives and eight motive typologies resulted from the analyses.
Proximal Femoral Allograft Treatment of Vancouver Type-B3 Periprosthetic Femoral Fractures After Total Hip Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND: Periprosthetic femoral fractures following total hip arthroplasty are becoming more prevalent. When a fracture occurs in a femur with substantial proximal bone deficiency, the surgical options for revision are limited. One option includes the use of a proximal femoral allograft. METHODS: We retrospectively assessed the results and complications of the use of a proximal femoral allograft to treat twenty-five Vancouver type-B3 periprosthetic fractures in twenty-four patients. The mean duration of follow-up was 5.1 years. Clinical results were graded with use of the Harris hip score. Radiographs were assessed for evidence of trochanteric union, host-allograft union, allograft resorption, and component loosening or fracture. Failure of the procedure was defined as the need for revision surgery requiring graft removal. RESULTS: The mean postoperative Harris hip score was 70.8. At the time of the final follow-up, twenty-one of the twenty-four patients reported no or mild pain and twenty-three patients were able to walk; fifteen required a walking aid. The greater trochanter united in seventeen of the twenty-five hips (68%), and osseous union of the allograft to the host femur occurred in twenty hips (80%). There was mild graft resorption in four hips and moderate graft resorption in two. Four (16%) of the twenty-five hips required repeat revision. CONCLUSIONS: The use of a proximal femoral allograft for the treatment of a Vancouver type-B3 periprosthetic femoral fracture can provide a satisfactory result in terms of pain relief and function at five years.
A scale-up prototype of PZT thin-film actuators for scanning endoscopes

This paper presents a feasibility study of using PZT thin-film actuators to power future scanning endoscopes. The feasibility study includes fabrication, instrumentation, and finite element analysis of a scale-up prototype PZT thin-film actuator whose dimensions are 14 mm by 14 mm. In the prototype, a 1 /spl mu/m thick PZT thin film along with its top and bottom electrodes are deposited on a 100-/spl mu/m thick silicon diaphragm suspension. A laser Doppler vibrometer is used to measure frequency response functions of the prototype to identify the actuator's gain and bandwidth. Modal analysis is performed to measure vibration mode shapes of the prototypes. Finally, a finite element analysis accurately predicts the measured gain, mode shapes, and natural frequencies by taking into the account of proper boundary conditions.
Folate deficiency inhibits pancreatic amylase secretion in rats.

Previous studies have suggested that the me- tabolism of methyl groups is an important factor in the function of the exocrine pancreas. Ethionine, an inhibitor of cellular methylation reactions, produces hemorrhagic pancreatitis when administered to mice fed a choline-deficient diet. Glycine N- methyltransferase, an enzyme which regulates the ratio of S-adenosylmethionine to S-adenosylhomocysteine, is particu- larly abundant in the exocrine pancreas. Since de novo synthe- sis of methyl groups requires the participation of folate coen- zymes, we investigated the effect of folate deficiency on pancreatic exocnine function. Rats were fed an amino acid- defined folate-deficient diet or the same diet supplemented with folate ad libitum. A third group received the folate sup- plemented diet pair-fed to the deficient group. After 3 and 5 wk, pancreatic amylase secretion was measured in perfused duodenal segments of anesthetized animals before and after cholecystokinin injection. Pancreatic secretion was signifi- cantly reduced in the deficient group compared with the pain- fed control group after 5 wk. These results indicate that severe folate deficiency impairs pancreatic exocrine function. Am