cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Differentially ligand-functionalized microcantilever arrays for metal ion identification and sensing.

A microcantilever array sensor with cantilevers differentially functionalized with self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) of thiolated ligands is prepared by simultaneous capillary coating. This array is described for the detection of metal ions including Li+, Cs+, Cu2+, Co2+, Fe3+, and Al3+. Binding of the charged metal cations to the surface of the microcantilever sensors produces surface stress that causes bending of the cantilevers that is detected as tip deflection using an array of vertical cavity surface emitting lasers and a position-sensitive detector. Optimization studies of the nanostructured dealloyed surface were performed for SAMs based on their response to Cu2+ cations. Sensor performance experiments demonstrate good sensitivity toward metal ions, with limits of detection as low as 10-8 molar. A multiplex capillary coating method for cantilever array creation is demonstrated and validated based on surface-enhanced Raman spectra obtained from adjacent cantilevers that were functionalized with diff...
Purification and partial characterization of a carboxypeptidase from the limpet (Patella vulgata).

Abstract A carboxypeptidase A-like enzyme has been purified to apparent homogeneity from commercially available acetone powder from the visceral hump of the limpet, Patella vulgata . A two-step procedure involving affinity chromatography on ϵ-amino- N -caproyl- d -phenylalanine-Sepharose and gel filtration resulted in a 3000-fold purification with an 80% yield. The enzyme is a single polypeptide chain of M r = 40,000 and exhibits both peptidase and esterase activities, which are characterized by dramatic excess substrate inhibition. Inhibition studies suggest that a metal ion is required for activity and demonstrate that the affinity label, N -bromoacetyl- N -methyl- l -phenylalanine, and a polypeptide carboxypeptidase inhibitor from potatoes (apparent K i approx. 2 n m ) are effective against the limpet enzyme.
Factors of polynomials under composition

Abstract Let S , T ∈ Q [X] be polynomials over the rational numbers of degrees m , n respectively where m | n . When is there a polynomial F ∈ Q [X] such that T = S · F ? A necessary condition is that the ratio of the leading coefficients be an m -th power in Q . This together with (i) S ( X ) = T ( Y ) has an infinity of solutions in (1/k) Z for some k or (ii) T ( Q ) ⊆ S ( Q ) is sufficient. Application is made to the question of when there are infinite sets E ⊆ Q such that S ( E ) = T ( E ).
Subpopulations of T lymphocytes in primary biliary cirrhosis.

Abstract The distribution of T lymphocytes that bear Fc receptors for IgG and IgM (TG and TM) has been investigated in 22 patients with primary biliary cirrhosis. Absolute numbers and percentages of T lymphocytes and of TG and TM lymphocytes were decreased, while percentages and absolute numbers of lymphocytes without a detectable Fc receptor for IgG and IgM (TnonG-nonM) were markedly increased. These results are not completely explained by the masking of the Fc receptor by immune complexes since enzymatic treatment of lymphocytes corrected these alterations only partially. These data suggest a faulty regulation of immunocompetent cells in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis.
Temporomandibular joint disorders: Discussion of a rational approach to surgery and a retrospective analysis of surgeries performed

A discussion of a rational technique of evaluation, diagnosis, and surgical therapy of temporomandibular joint disorders is presented. A retrospective analysis of operations for temporomandibular joint that occurred in a 30-month period is presented in light of this approach.
Risk-taking as a personality trait

Consistencies in risk-taking behavior were investigated in a multi-method, convergent validity study of 13 risk-related measures. Fifty-six student nurses served as participants. As with earlier studies, a general convergence was not found. However, factor analysis of the correlations indicated 2 qualitatively different kinds of dimensions. In addition to 5 strategy traits, a single motivational trait was identified. The motivational trait was interpreted as identifying a person’s general willingness to approach or avoid risk situations. Data, independent of the factor analysis, supported the approach-avoidance construct. The results suggest (a) a redefinition of risk-taking as a personality trait; and (b) that consistencies in risk behavior do occur across a variety of situations.
Secondary Causes of Dyslipidemia

The causes of the lipid disorders in patients referred to specialty clinics for difficult-to-treat dyslipidemias are likely multifactorial. However, the importance of evaluating for secondary causes is unclear. The investigators performed a chart review of new patients referred to the University of Michigan Lipid Clinic from January 2004 to June 2011 (n = 824) to evaluate for the prevalence of several secondary causes of dyslipidemia. In addition to lipoproteins, new patients were assessed for secondary dyslipidemias by a standardized protocol consisting of laboratory testing, a nutritional evaluation, and medical history. These data were evaluated to determine the prevalence of several secondary causes of dyslipidemia. A total of 363 separate factors were identified in the 824 patients that were thought to be potential secondary causes of dyslipidemia. Because some patients (n = 83 [10%]) had multiple conditions, there were 230 (28% of the cohort) with ≥1 potential secondary dyslipidemias. The most common conditions were excessive alcohol intake (n = 82 [10%]), uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (n = 68 [8%]), and overt albuminuria. Although other causes occurred less frequently (each individually found in <5% of patients), altogether they were present in a substantial portion of patients (n = 102 [12%]). In conclusion, nearly 1/3 of patients referred to a specialty clinic had identifiable secondary conditions plausibly contributing to their dyslipidemia. Numerous disorders were identified, with diabetes mellitus and excessive alcohol being the most common.
Fungicide Sensitivity of Pythium spp. Associated with Cavity Spot of Carrot in California and Michigan

The identity of 172 isolates of Pythium spp. from cavity spot lesions on carrot produced in California and Michigan was determined, and their sensitivity to three fungicides was examined. Pythium violae accounted for 85% of California isolates, with P. irregulare, P. dissotocum (the first report as a carrot pathogen in the United States), P. ultimum, and P. sulcatum making the balance. P. sulcatum, P. sylvaticum, and P. intermedium were the most commonly recovered (85%) species in Michigan; others from Michigan included P. intermedium, P. irregulare, and an unclassified strain, M2-05. On fungicide-amended media, 93% of isolates were sensitive to mefenoxam (inhibition of mycelial growth was >60% at 10 μg active ingredient [a.i.]/ml); however, two of five isolates of P. irregulare from California were highly resistant (≤60% inhibition at 100 μg a.i./ml); about half of the isolates of P. intermedium and P. sylvaticum and a single isolate of P. violae were highly or intermediately resistant to mefenoxam (>60% inhibition at 100 μg a.i./ml, or ≤60% inhibition at 10 μg a.i./ml). P. dissotocum, P. irregulare, P. sulcatum, M2-05, and three of seven isolates of P. intermedium were insensitive to fluopicolide (effective concentrations for 50% growth inhibition [EC50] were >50 μg a.i./ml), while P. sylvaticum, P. ultimum, P. violae, and some isolates in P. intermedium were sensitive (EC50 < 1 μg a.i./ml). All isolates were sensitive to zoxamide (EC50 < 1 μg a.i./ml). Sensitivity baselines of P. violae to zoxamide and fluopicolide were established.
Alexander fleming: The spectrum of penicillin

Abstract The discovery of penicillin was directly linked to the inhibition by that agent of the growth of colonies of staphylococcus. However, subsequent resistance by this organism to penicillin as well as to a number of other agents has marked the history of staphylococcus in the antibiotic era. One of the most important mechanisms of this resistance has been the production of penicillinase, an enzyme that inactivates penicillin and related antibiotics. Penicillinase is currently termed betalactamase, and it is now recognized that there are several types of beta-lactamases produced by various organisms. The ability of staphylococci to produce this enzyme has been countered by the development of penicillinase-resistant agents and the addition of beta-lactamase inhibitors to antibiotics.
Periodic NADH oxidase activity associated with an endoplasmic reticulum fraction from pig liver. Response to micromolar concentrations of retinol

Abstract An endoplasmic reticulum fraction from pig liver enriched in transitional endoplasmic reticulum vesicles capable of forming 50–60 nm buds in the presence of ATP and retinol was assayed for retinol-responsive oxidation of NADH and cleavage of a dithiodipyridine (DTDP) protein disulfide–thiol interchange substrate. Maxima for the two activities alternated giving rise to a 24 min period. The NADH oxidase activity was inhibited by micromolar and submicromolar concentrations of retinol. Retinol at 0.1 mM stimulated the activity. The inhibition was confined to two activity maxima separated in time by about 5 min. In contrast, with the DTDP substrate, the activity was stimulated by retinol and the stimulations were in the part of the oscillatory pattern where retinol inhibition of NADH oxidation was observed. The findings support an earlier proposed mechanism whereby retinol exerted opposing effects on NADH oxidation and protein disulfide reductions.
Heme axial methionine fluxionality in Hydrogenobacter thermophilus cytochrome c552

The heme group in paramagnetic (S = 1/2) ferricytochromes c typically displays a markedly asymmetric distribution of unpaired electron spin density among the heme pyrrole β substituents. This asymmetry is determined by the orientations of the heme axial ligands, histidine and methionine. One exception to this is ferricytochrome c552 from Hydrogenobacter thermophilus, which has similar amounts of unpaired electron spin density at the β substituents on all four heme pyrroles. Here, determination of the orientation of the magnetic axes and analysis of NMR line shapes for H. thermophilus ferricytochrome c552 is performed. These data reveal that the unusual electronic structure for this protein is a result of fluxionality of the heme axial methionine. It is proposed that the ligand undergoes inversion at the pyramidal sulfur, and the rapid interconversion between two diastereomeric forms results in the unusual heme electronic structure. Thus a fluxional process for a metal-bound amino acid side chain has now been identified.
An Improved Strength Pareto Evolutionary Algorithm 2 with application to the optimization of distributed generations

This paper presents an Improved Strength Pareto Evolutionary Algorithm 2 (ISPEA2), which introduces a penalty factor in objective function constraints, uses adaptive crossover and a mutation operator in the evolutionary process, and combines simulated annealing iterative process over SPEA2. The testing result of ISPEA2 by authoritative testing functions meets the requirement of Petro-optimum fronts. The case study result shows that the proposed algorithm provides a rapid convergence in obtaining Pareto-optimal solutions during the calculation process of evolution. Based on the fuzzy set theory, ISPEA2 is able to solve the multi-objective problems in the IEEE 33-bus system, and its validity and practicality are demonstrated by the utilization on DG's economic dispatch and optimal operation in the field of power industry.
The modified health assessment questionnaire difficulty scale. A health status measure revisited

This study examined the equivalency of disability estimates obtained from the health assessment questionnaire (HAQ) and the modified HAQ (MHAQ). We found that although the MHAQ and HAQ scores were highly correlated, MHAQ scores were significantly lower than HAQ scores, were not normally distributed, and exhibited a restricted range. Implications of these findings are discussed.
Cloning and sequencing hybrid striped bass (Morone saxatilis x M. chrysops) transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), and development of a reverse transcription quantitative competitive polymerase chain reaction (RT-qcPCR) assay to measure TGF-β mRNA of teleost fish

Abstract A transforming growth factor (TGF)-β was isolated and cloned from hybrid striped bass ( Morone saxatilis x M. chrysops ) anterior kidney mononuclear cells. This isolate (Genbank accession number AF140363) contains an open reading frame of 1146 bases coding for a 382 amino acid protein most similar to rainbow trout TGF-β (57·3 and 78·6% identity with precursor and active protein, respectively) and rat TGF-β 1 (41·1 and 68·8% identity with precursor and active protein, respectively). Consensus primers were demonstrated to amplify specifically by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), a TGF-β segment from 14 species of teleost fish comprising 10 taxonomic families in 7 orders. A reverse transcription quantitative competitive polymerase chain reaction (RT-qcPCR) assay was devised to measure TGF-β mRNA expression in teleost fish. Higher levels of TGF-β mRNA expression were detected in mononuclear cells of peripheral blood than from spleen or anterior kidney.
Structural and functional maturation of the developing primate brain

Descriptive studies have established that the developmental events responsible for the assembly of neural systems and circuitry are conserved across mammalian species. However, primates are unique regarding the time during which histogenesis occurs and the extended postnatal period during which myelination of pathways and circuitry formation occur and are then subsequently modified, particularly in the cerebral cortex. As in lower mammals, the framework for subcortical-cortical connectivity in primates is established before midgestation and already begins to remodel before birth. Association systems, responsible for modulating intracortical circuits that integrate information across functional domains, also form before birth, but their growth and reorganization extend into puberty. There are substantial differences across species in the patterns of development of specific neurochemical systems. The complexity is even greater when considering that the development of any particular cellular component may differ among cortical areas in the same primate species. Developmental and behavioral neurobiologists, psychologists, and pediatricians are challenged with understanding how functional maturation relates to the evolving anatomical organization of the human brain during childhood, and moreover, how genetic and environmental perturbations affect the adaptive changes exhibited by neural circuits in response to developmental disruption.
Genotype-phenotype analysis for the polymorphic CA repeat in the insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) gene.

Polymorphic microsatellite dinucleotide (cytosine–adenine, CA) repeats of the insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) gene may have implications in the development of certain types of cancer and osteoporosis. We studied correlations between IGF-I genotypes determined by direct sequencing and plasma IGF-I levels among 113 healthy individuals (60 men and 53 women), who were originally enrolled as controls for hospital-based case–control studies of breast and prostate cancer. On the contrary to an earlier observation, there were no differences in plasma IGF-I levels between those with and without the allele of 19 repeats. With adjustment for other confounders, there were no trends in plasma IGF-I levels with increasing or decreasing the number of CA repeats among all study subjects combined, all Whites or all Blacks, suggesting no overall functional significance of this polymorphism. Opposite trends observed in gender and racial subgroups, i.e., an inverse association between plasma IGF-I levels and the CA repeat length in white women and a positive association in black men, are likely to be chance findings.
Transvaginal sonographic characterization combined with cytologic evaluation in the diagnosis of ovarian and adnexal cysts.

A transvaginal sonographic (TVS) scoring system using morphologic features has been developed at our institution to maximize discrimination between benign and malignant ovarian and adnexal cysts. Low (4–7) or intermediate (8–9) scores have been found to correlate with benignity, hence TVS-guided or laparo-scopically directed needle aspiration of low-scoring lesions may safely be performed. High-scoring lesions (10–14) are often malignant, therefore in situ needle aspiration of such lesions is not recommended. The aim of our study was to correlate the results of TVS characterization of ovarian and adnexal cysts with the aspiration cytologic evaluation. Twenty-three of the 43 cysts studied were aspirated in situ from the patient; 20 were aspirated from resected surgical specimens. Thirty-six benign cysts had TVS scores ranging from 4 to 12, with a median score of 7. All 25 cysts that were benign by TVS and/or histology were also cytologically benign as well as an additional 11 cysts that were not resected (TVS scores: 4 to 9). Seven cytologically and histologically malignant cysts had high TVS scores (TVS scores 10–14; median = 12). The combination of TVS and needle aspiration cytology is valuable, particularly in the diagnosis of cysts having low or intermediate TVS scores and benign cytology. Aspiration of cysts or masses with high TVS scores is not recommended. This combined evaluation may allow a more limited surgical approach, such as operative laparoscopy, or, in some cases, obviate the need for operative treatment altogether. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
A Generation That Has Squandered Its Men: The Late Soviet Crisis of Masculinity in the Poetry of Sergei Gandlevskii

The present paper explores the role images of masculinity play in the work of the contemporary Russian poet Sergei Gandlevskii. Gandlevskii's treatment of masculinity, the paper argues, serves as a vehicle for commentary on the historical situation of the late Soviet era, as well as providing an outlet for the poet's reflection upon his own life path and, at times, for an implicit moral self-judgment within the context of a general condemnation of Soviet society. Gandlevskii's poetry, the paper attempts to show, reflects what the sociologists Elena Zdravomyslova and Anna Temkina have termed a “crisis of masculinity” characteristic of late Soviet society: it associates a masculine life-path with the notions of futility, moral failure and existential impasse. At the same time that Gandlevskii treats Soviet-era paradigms of masculinity with skepticism and distance, however, he also does engage to some extent in fantasies of masculine autonomy and agency as possible even within the context of Soviet society. This ambivalence is preserved in Gandlevskii's work through the poet's use of various masculine personae (some more distant than others from his biographical self), as well as by the abundance of quotations from other poets and from official Soviet discourses.
The Synthesis of Stabilized Dimetallated Thioimidate Complexes by the Insertion of Ethoxycarbonylisothiocyanate into a Rhenium–Rhenium Bond

Molecules containing dimetallated hydrocarbyl groupings are of great chemical interest[1–3]. These groupings often represent intermediates in important catalytic processes[4]. Recently, we have shown that substituted dimetallated olefins can be formed by alkyne insertion into the metal–metal bonds of certain dinuclear complexes[2,5]. Complexes having dimetallated hydrocarbyl groups combined with heteroatoms are quite rare[6]. Herein is described the formation of a dimetallathioimidate grouping by the insertion of an organic isothiocyanates into an unsupported metal–metal bond. Organic isothiocyanates are useful reagents in organic synthesis[7], but the organometallic chemistry of these molecules is not yet well developed[8].
Viscoelastic behavior of fullerene end-capped linear polymers

Abstract Viscoelastic behavior of C60-end-capped linear polybutadiene and C60-end-capped poly(butadiene-co-styrene) with molecular weight (Mn) ranging from 30 to 130 kg/mol and with polydispersity index (Mw/Mn) ranging from 1.02 to 1.08 was investigated. These polymers were synthesized through anionic polymerization of butadiene and styrene in hexane, in which the living ends were capped with the C60 via an alcoholate bridging. Rheological measurements showed that the polymer dynamics in the terminal zone were profoundly affected by the presence of fullerene, while the dynamics in the entanglement-plateau and at the terminal relaxation were nearly unaffected.
IDEA Transition Policy Compliance and Best Practice: Perceptions of Transition Stakeholders.

This study used the Survey on Transition Policy Compliance and Best Practices to measure transition policy compliance and best practices at local education agencies (LEAs) and identify predictors of transition policy compliance and best practice. The study participants consisted of 186 persons involved in transition planning, including parents and guardians, educators, and adult service professionals. Respondents reported that their schools were generally complying with the transition requirements of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) with the exception of the requirement to reconvene the Individualized Education Program (IEP) team if transition services could not be provided as planned. The strongest predictor of policy compliance and best practice in LEAs was the existence of a school-based interagency transition team. In addition, transition training proved to be a weaker predictor of best practice. The findings support the need for interagency team forming activities as part of tra...
Evaluation of a Wall-Flow Direction Probe for Measurements in Separated Flows

The upstream-downstream flow direction intermittency is an important parameter that can quantitatively describe the stages of flow separation. This paper gives an improved design for a wall-flow-direction probe. Intermittency measurements made using this modified probe show agreement within experimental uncertainties with direct measurements made using a LDV, although both the unmodified and modified probe designs produce results that are consistently higher than those for the LDV.
The micronucleus test: statistical design and analysis.

Abstract Alternative statistical procedures are discussed which may be employed to compare the incidences among treatment groups of micronucleated polychromatic and normochromatic erythrocytes and their ratios. Comparison of incidences of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes using a sequential sampling strategy based on the negative binomial distribution is shown to require fewer animals for the same sensitivity of test than a similar procedure based on the binomial distribution. The sequential test is superior, both in power and number of animals required, to an alternative 1-stage test based on the same distribution. The procedure described permits the investigator to optimize the number of animals in each group and the number of cells counted per animal to detect a predetermined increase in the incidence of micronucleated cells over that observed in the control population within chosen limits of type I and type II error. An alternative sequential approach based on the binomial distribution is presented, which is applicable when the number of cells analyzed per animal is variable.
SOME DIFFERENCES BETWEEN TWO STRAINS OF RATS DEVELOPED BY SELECTION TO DIFFER IN THEIR RESPONSE TO EQUINE GONADOTROPHIN1

SOME of the causes of variation in the response of the ovaries of 21- day-old rats to a standard dose of equine gonadotrophin have been reported by Chapman (1946). Heredity was estimated on his random-bred stock as responsible for 40% of the variance in the weight of the stimulated ovaries after the variability due to body weight and to temporal factors was eliminated. Selection and inbreeding experiments have since been carried out on the descendents of this stock to develop lines that differ markedly in their quantitative response to the gonadotrophic hormone (Kyle and Chapman, 1948). The ability of a rat ovary to respond to gonadotrophic stimulation is associated with the presence of vesicular follicles (Corey, 1930 and Hargitt, 1930). It may be suspected that the larger the number of vesicular follicles present, within limits, the greater will be the response to a given amount of hormone and that differences in number of vesicular follicles might account for differences between lines in the degree of ...
Palpitations Occur Frequently Following Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation for Supraventricular Tachycardia, But Do Not Predict Pathway Recurrence

Radiofrequency ablation of extranodal pathways is an effective treatment for supraventricular tachycardia, but late recurrences of pathway conduction do occur. To determine if recurrence of palpitations following ablation predicts pathway recurrence, we interviewed 77 patients who were at least 4 weeks status-post successful ablation of an accessory pathway (43 overt, 11 concealed) or slow pathway (23) for AV nodal reentrant tachycardia. Palpitations were reported by 45 (58%) patients postablation, and 28 (36%) patients reported palpitations lasting > or = 10 seconds and/or felt their symptoms represented recurrent tachycardia (major palpitations). Repeat electrophysiological testing was performed 3 months postablation in 53 patients, including 34 patients with palpitations (22 with major symptoms). Eight (10%) patients had recurrent pathway conduction demonstrated on repeat testing: two had no symptoms prior to restudy and six had major symptoms. One patient had major symptoms, but was found to have inducible atrial tachycardia and not pathway recurrence on restudy. Thus, 15 (68%) of 22 patients with major symptoms who were restudied had no pathway recurrence or inducible arrhythmia to explain their symptoms. Of the 24 patients not restudied, none has had documented recurrent tachycardia or overt pathway conduction by electrocardiogram over a mean follow-up of 335 +/- 138 (range 132-616) days. Thus, palpitations, including palpitations reminiscent of preablation symptoms, are common following radiofrequency ablation and often do not predict pathway recurrence. Repeat electrophysiological testing is frequently required to document long-term success of radiofrequency ablation for supraventricular tachycardia in patients with recurrence of major symptoms.
Academic Socialization Experiences of Latina Doctoral Students A Qualitative Understanding of Support Systems That Aid and Challenges That Hinder the Process

This article examines the experiences of academic socialization for Latina doctoral students. Thirteen 1- to 2-hour semistructured interviews were conducted with Latina doctoral students attending U.S. research institutions who had been in their programs for 3 or more years. Through production theory, a phenomenological analytic approach of Latina doctoral experiences was conducted. Findings include support systems, challenges, resistance methods, and issues with claiming their academic voice. The article concludes with policy implications and a discussion.
Nucleation, growth, and structure of fullerene films on Au(111)

Abstract The growth of fullerene films by vapor deposition on Au(111) was studied using UHV-STM, LEED, AES, and TOF-SIMS. The fullerenes were found to grow in a layer-by-layer manner. The molecules initially adsorb at intersections of multiple steps and edges of monatomic steps on narrow terraces. As the coverage is increased, periodic arrays of short chains form at steps separating wider terraces with the periodicity determined by the (23 × √3)− Au (111) reconstruction. At higher coverages, hexagonal layers with a lattice constant of 1.0 nm grow out from the steps on both the upper and lower terraces. The adsorption of the fullerenes lifts the reconstruction indicating a strong interaction between the fullerenes and Au(111). STM indicates that two ordered commensurate structures predominate on the Au(111) surface: (1) a layer with a periodicity of approximately 38 Au spacings; and (2) a layer with a (2√3 × 2√3)R30° unit cell. Second layer molecules were found to display no affinity for step edges. On Au(111), the second layer desorbs at 300°C, while the first layer is strongly bound and does not begin to desorb until 500°C. After annealing to 500°C the remaining C 60 is largely disordered. Intramolecular structure was observed within molecules at the step edges and in the hexagonal arrays.
Identification of Fibrous Cap Rupture With Magnetic Resonance Imaging Is Highly Associated With Recent Transient Ischemic Attack or Stroke

Background— High-resolution MRI has been shown to be capable of distinguishing intact, thick fibrous caps from thin and ruptured caps in human carotid atherosclerosis in vivo. The aim of this study was to determine whether MRI identification of fibrous cap thinning or rupture is associated with a history of recent transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke. Methods and Results— Fifty-three consecutive patients (mean age, 71 years; 49 male) scheduled for carotid endarterectomy were recruited after obtaining informed consent. Twenty-eight subjects had a recent history of TIA or stroke on the side appropriate to the index carotid lesion, and 25 were asymptomatic. Preoperative carotid MRI was performed in a 1.5-T GE Signa scanner that generated T1-, PD-, and T2-weighted and three-dimensional time-of-flight images. Using previously reported MRI criteria, the fibrous cap was categorized as intact-thick, intact-thin, or ruptured for each carotid plaque by blinded review. There was a strong and statistically signi...
Radiometric evaluation of MODIS emissive bands through comparison to ER-2-based MAS data

The calibration accuracy of the Moderate resolution Imaging Spectro-radiometer (MODIS) on Terra near its one year anniversary of first light has been assessed using ER-2 aircraft underflights during the Terra eXperiment (TX-2001) in the spring, 2001. The ER-2, equipped with the MAS and SHIS instruments, underflew Terra several times viewing clear sky earth scenes of the Gulf of Mexico. MAS and SHIS form a powerful tandem, combining high spatial resolution imaging with high spectral resolution sampling in the midwave to longwave infrared region. The assessment is based on co-located MODIS and MAS fields of view with matching viewing geometry and removes spatial and spectral dependencies. The MAS L1B calibration accuracy is improved by transferring the SHIS calibration accuracy (conservatively 0.5 K) to MAS. The early results of two days from TX-2001 indicate that MODIS bands are performing well, but not optimally. The MODIS MWIR window bands appear to be close to the 0.75 - 1% radiometric accuracy specification for the uniform warm, low reflectance scenes assessed, perhaps suggesting that known electronic crosstalk in MODIS SWIR and MWIR bands is small for such scenes. MODIS LWIR window bands show residuals of about 0.5 K to 0.6 K, larger than the 0.5% radiometric accuracy specification. However with the 0.5 K (window bands) to 1 K (atmospheric bands) uncertainties associated with the current assessment, it is not possible to definitively state whether these MODIS bands are or are not within specification. MODIS LWIR atmospheric CO2 bands appear to perform near the 1% accuracy specification with the exception of bands 35 and 36, the upper tropospheric CO2 bands at 13.9micrometers and 14.1micrometers . Different MODIS viewing geometry on the two days seems to suggest that scan mirror reflectance dependence on mirror angles may be influencing the MODIS L1B calibration for some bands, most notably the 8.6micrometers and LWIR CO2 bands; however this assessment is dependent upon the accuracy of the spectral correction (a function of atmospheric conditions), which will be further investigated in coming months. It was surprising to find large MODIS residuals for several bands when the mirror angle to the earth scene closely matched that of when MODIS views its onboard blackbody.© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
A Decade of Antimicrobial Susceptibilities at the University of Kentucky Hospital

OBJECTIVE:To determine the antimicrobial susceptibility rates for key antimicrobial agents and selective bacterial pathogens in the decade of the 1990s.METHODS:Data from 1990 to 2000 from the University of Kentucky Clinical Microbiology Laboratory were analyzed by linear regression analysis to identify agents and pathogens that show a decline in susceptibility. For selected pathogens and antimicrobial agents, predictions were made for further declines in susceptibility for 2005 and 2010.RESULTS:Significant declines in susceptibility to selected antimicrobial agents were found for Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterobacter cloacae, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Streptococcus pneumoniae. Further declines were predicted for 2005 and 2010.CONCLUSIONS:Examination of susceptibility rates over time in a university hospital medical center provides useful data for future planning. In our institution, antimicrobial susceptibility rates have significantly d...
Spin excitations of bitumens

Abstract Bitumen free radicals are located within the planar polynuclear aromatic ring systems of bituminous crystallites in such a manner as to optimize their stabilization by the resonance of delocalized π-electrons. The states of spin multiplicity exhibited by these substances are revealed by the observed transitions under thermal excitations. Experimental ESR intensity-temperature dependence data from several asphaltic bitumens, a model compound (phthalocyanine), and a few charge-transfer complexes were collected. Curves containing both exponential (singlet-triplet) and Curie-Weiss (doublet) components were then calculated from the curves and found to be consistent with published results. This spin correlation indicates that both singlet-triplet transitions and doublet states exist within the bituminous aromatic sheets. This and other forms of thermal excitation (e.g., Russell effect), may be attributed to the propagation of Wannier excitons. The predominance of doublet concentrations in high vanadium samples (e.g., Mara asphaltene) indicates that spins are localized by nuclei-spin interactions.
CD studies of a peptide mimetic of L-type calcium channels

Abstract A synthetic peptide known to form functional transmembrane ion channels when templated to form a four-helix bundle has been examined in its non-templated form by circular dichroic spectroscopy. In aqueous fluoroalcohol media, the peptide is largely helical while in dodecylphosphocholine micelles, a β sheet motif seems to predominate.
Effects of coronary stenoses on coronary flow reserve and resistance.

Abstract Resting coronary flow and regional distribution are not affected by narrowing of up to 85 percent of arterial diameter and therefore provide little insight into the effects of stenoses on coronary hemodynamics. However, maximal coronary flow and coronary flow reserve are markedly reduced by constrictions that do not affect resting flow. Accordingly, coronary flow reserve and its relations to pressure-flow-resis-tance characteristics of 177 single (10 dogs) and 125 double coronary stenoses in series (7 dogs) were studied in open chest preparations. Coronary flow, aortic pressure and left circumflex coronary pressure distal to a single or to each of two separate adjustable coronary constrictors in series were simultaneously recorded while flow was varied from basal to maximum by intracoronary injections of contrast medium. The hyperemic response to contrast medium is a quantitative measure of coronary flow reserve which was closely related to, and predictive of, the following characteristics of single and double stenoses in series: (1) total pressure gradient and distal circumflex perfusion pressure at resting coronary flow; (2) total pressure gradient and distal circumflex pressure at hyperemic flow when effects of stenoses are greatest; and (3) coronary stenoses resistance. Thus, the hyperemic response after injection of contrast medium, or coronary flow reserve, is in itself a quantitative measure of the pressure-flow-resistance characteristics of coronary constrictions. In addition, resistances of coronary stenoses in series are shown to be additive; the flow effects of stenoses in series are not generally determined by the dominant or most severe lesion, contrary to common clinical precepts. These concepts are applicable to patients in assessing the effects of stenoses on coronary hemodynamics.
National variability in intracranial pressure monitoring and craniotomy for children with moderate to severe traumatic brain injury.

Recent estimates suggest that 1.7 million traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) occur annually in the United States, leading to approximately 53 000 deaths.1 Among infants and children, TBI is both a major cause of mortality and of significant postinjury disability.2 In the period following initial injury, patients with moderate and severe TBI frequently develop secondary insults to the brain due to hemorrhage, swelling, and disruption of normal autoregulation of cerebral blood flow, all of which may lead to increased intracranial pressure (ICP). Increased ICP further decreases blood flow and oxygen delivery to the already vulnerable brain, compounding the effects of the primary injury. Monitoring and medical/surgical management of increased ICP are hallmarks of modern neurosurgical and neurocritical care, and both are level III recommendations in peer-reviewed treatment guidelines for severe pediatric TBI published by the Brain Trauma Foundation.3,4 Despite the publication of evidence-based guidelines for the medical management of severe pediatric TBI in 2003, significant variability in the use of diagnostic and therapeutic technologies in the treatment of pediatric TBI has been documented in several studies.3–7 Associations between lower rates of ICP monitoring and patient-level factors, especially young age, have been previously reported.5–7 A possible link between higher volume of TBI care and increased use of ICP monitors has also been described.5 To better analyze the sources of patient, hospital, and regional variability in the care delivered to US children with TBI, we undertook an analysis of the American College of Surgeons National Trauma Databank (NTDB). A priori, we elected to examine the incidence and variation of 2 neurosurgical markers of potential therapeutic intensity of care and guideline adherence in the care provided to children with moderate-severe TBI: ICP monitoring and craniotomy/craniectomy for intractable intracranial hypertension.3,4
Diffuse symbioses: roles of plant–plant, plant–microbe and microbe–microbe interactions in structuring the soil microbiome

A conceptual model emphasizing direct host–microbe interactions has dominated work on host-associated microbiomes. To understand plant–microbiome associations, however, broader influences on microbiome composition and functioning must be incorporated, such as those arising from plant–plant and microbe–microbe interactions. We sampled soil microbiomes associated with target plant species (Andropogon gerardii, Schizachyrium scoparium, Lespedeza capitata, Lupinus perennis) grown in communities varying in plant richness (1-, 4-, 8- or 16-species). We assessed Streptomyces antagonistic activity and analysed bacterial and Streptomyces populations via 454 pyrosequencing. Host plant species and plant richness treatments altered networks of coassociation among bacterial taxa, suggesting the potential for host plant effects on the soil microbiome to include changes in microbial interaction dynamics and, consequently, co-evolution. Taxa that were coassociated in the rhizosphere of a given host plant species often showed consistent correlations between operational taxonomic unit (OTU) relative abundance and Streptomyces antagonistic activity, in the rhizosphere of that host. However, in the rhizosphere of a different host plant species, the same OTUs showed no consistency, or a different pattern of responsiveness to such biotic habitat characteristics. The diversity and richness of bacterial and Streptomyces communities exhibited distinct relationships with biotic and abiotic soil characteristics. The rhizosphere soil microbiome is influenced by a complex and nested array of factors at varying spatial scales, including plant community, plant host, soil edaphics and microbial taxon and community characteristics.
Does Neuroscience Matter for Education

In this review essay, Francis Schrag focuses on two recent anthologies dealing completely or in part with the role of neuroscience in learning and education: The Jossey-Bass Reader on the Brain and Learning, edited by Jossey-Bass Publishers, and New Philosophies of Learning, edited by Ruth Cigman and Andrew Davis. Schrag argues that philosophers of education do have a distinctive role in the conversation about neuroscience. He contends that the impact of neuroscience is likely to be substantial, though not in the way its advocates imagine. It has the potential to enhance education by way of interventions that successfully alter the fundamental neural mechanisms of learning, but neuroscience is unlikely to affect classroom teaching substantially.
A Comparison of Ekman Pumping in Approximate Models of the Accelerating Planetary Boundary Layer

Abstract Several theories of the planetary boundary layer that retain the flow accelerations in approximate form are compared. Two special test cases focus on the role of either local or convective accelerations. The semigeotriptic theory of Cullen predicts the boundary layer pumping most accurately for the cases and parameter range considered here.
Treatment of sarcoidosis-associated pulmonary hypertension. A two-center experience.

Background Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a common complication of sarcoidosis that is associated with increased mortality. The pathogenesis of PH in sarcoidosis is uncertain, and the role of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)-specific therapies remains to be determined. Methods We conducted a retrospective study of patients with sarcoidosis and PH at two referral centers. New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class, exercise capacity, hemodynamic data, pulmonary function tests, and survival were collected and analyzed. Results Twenty-two sarcoidosis patients treated with PAH-specific therapies were identified. After a median of 11 months of follow-up, NYHA class was improved in nine subjects. Mean 6-min walk distance (n = 18) increased by 59 m (p = 0.032). Patients with a higher FVC experienced a greater increment in exercise capacity. Among 12 patients with follow-up hemodynamic data, mean pulmonary artery pressure was reduced from 48.5 ± 4.3 to 39.4 ± 2.8 mm Hg (p = 0.008). The 1- and 3-year transplant-free survival rates were 90% and 74%, respectively. Conclusions PAH-specific therapy may improve functional class, exercise capacity, and hemodynamics in PH associated with sarcoidosis. Prospective, controlled trials of PAH therapies for sarcoidosis are warranted to verify this apparent benefit. Mortality among the study population was high, highlighting the need for urgent evaluation at a lung transplant center.
PARALLEL INDUCTION OF d-ARABITOL AND d-SORBITOL DEHYDROGENASES

Scolnick, Edward M. (Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass.) and Edmund C. C. Lin. Parallel induction of d-arabitol and d-sorbitol dehydrogenases. J. Bacteriol. 84:631–637. 1962.—Two inducible diphosphopyridine nucleotide-linked dehydrogenases are described in a bacterium isolated from the soil, Cellvibrio polyoltrophicus ATCC 14774. The first enzyme catalyzes the dehydrogenation of d-arabitol to d-xylulose and d-mannitol to d-fructose. The data suggest that in vivo this enzyme has the dual function of the utilization of both of these polyhydric alcohols. The second enzyme was found to act only on d-sorbitol, converting it to d-fructose. Evidence for its physiological function as a d-sorbitol dehydrogenase is also given. Both of these enzymes were found to be induced in parallel by any of the three polyhydric alcohols, d-arabitol, d-mannitol, and d-sorbitol. A common stereoconfiguration of the inducers for these enzymes is suggested. The parallel evolution of substrate specificity and inducer specificity is discussed with respect to the functional advantage that such a selective process might offer.
Electron escape time from single quantum wells

A theoretical model for electrons escaping a quantum well under the influence of an applied electric field is developed. Both the thermionic emission and tunneling components of the currents are calculated, taking into account the proper partitioning between the two currents. The group velocity for a nonuniform electron distribution within the quantum well, which is a function of position and energy, and the continuous energy dependence of the quantum well density of states is considered. A comparison between this model and previously reported experimental results are made which demonstrates excellent agreement.
The US health care (non)system: the personal assessment of an American radiologist.

It would be convenient to say that the US health care system is a reflection of the character of the American peopleddiverse, creative, entrepreneurial, ‘‘can do.’’ It is not that simple. In point of fact, there is no US health care system. Rather, the organization, financing, and delivery of our medical care are a patchwork that has grown over time and in response to temporal demands. In not having a clearly defined, integrated health care system, the United States is unusual among developed countries. That this is the case has implications for the American populace, which I will address in this article. My goal is to provide insight to Canadian radiologists, which may help them to evaluate their own system of care in the context of another. At the second annual American College of Radiology Forum, an event drawing together multidisciplinary experts on a selected topic, then National Quality Forum President, Dr Kenneth Kiser, described what he called ‘‘the US health care paradox’’[1]. The United States has an abundance of highly trained practitioners, state-of-the-art technologies, and unequaled health care spending. Despite this, care is difficult to access, fragmented, unevenly distributed, and much of the care provided is of uncertain value. As a result, he noted, there is a ‘‘quality gap,’’ characterized by overuse, underuse, misuse, and waste [1]. The Institute of Medicine has concluded that simply tinkering with the current nonsystem is insufficient to cure our problems and that sweeping change is needed [2]. Dr Kiser’s indictments to the contrary, the majority of Americans receive high-quality medical care. Nonetheless, there is a growing consensus, to which I subscribe, that how we deliver health care in the United States is flawed, such that our society pays too much for its health care. The continuing rate of increase in expenditures as a share of our economy (16.3% of the gross domestic product in 2007) is
Human Reproductive Technologies and Reproductive Rights: A Selective Bibliography

Human reproductive technologies and reproductive rights have been controversial issues for two decades. As cloning techniques develop, it appears that they will only increase their role as one of society’s most controversial subjects. In this annotated bibliography, Rupp‐Serrano presents articles and books written from 1990 through 1997 that address reproductive rights and technologies, as well as relevant Web sites. Her focus is primarily on the United States, with some contributions from Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Items addressing birth control, cloning, and abortion are not included; nor are materials from medicine and law that are highly technical in nature.