cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Phase Formation in Isothermally Annealed (Co0.95Fe0.05)89Zr7B4 Nanocrystalline Alloys

This report focuses on the phase relations and transformations in a (Fe0.05Co0.95)89Zr7B4 melt-spun alloy with an emphasis on crystallization and its effects on thermomagnetic properties. When as-spun ribbons are annealed at relatively low temperatures (near primary crystallization), the nucleation and growth of nonequilibrium body-centered-cubic (bcc) crystallites occurs in a residual amorphous matrix, as determined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). At intermediate temperatures, bcc crystallites continue to grow with the addition of a small volume fraction of the equilibrium face-centered-cubic (fcc) phase. It is expected that after the bcc nuclei are formed, the grains coarsen as bcc phase and do not transform to the more stable fcc phase at intermediate temperatures. At temperatures where the amorphous matrix phase dissociates into Zr intermetallics, the bcc phase is transformed into fcc and the grains coarsen significantly. Thermodynamic modeling has been used to support the nucleation of the nonequilibrium bcc phase during the early stages of crystallization. Thermomagnetic results show little reduction in the saturation magnetization as a function of annealing temperature up to the primary crystallization temperature (~420 °C).
Fibrous xanthomas of the conjunctiva.

Xanthomas are nodular masses of lipid-laden histiocytes which may contain scattered Touton giant cells. They occur in the systemic lipoidoses, in patients with increased serum lipids, and in apparently normal individuals. These lesions may be solitary or may be seen as multiple plaques or papules with a characteristic distribution. The ophthalmologist encounters this abnormality most frequently as the xanthelasma palpebrarum. The present report describes a patient with xanthomata involving the conjunctivae. A review of the literature and of cases on file at the Registry of Ophthalmic Pathology indicate this to be an extremely unusual site. The lesion had the appearance of fibrous xanthoma, a type that may be less benign than other types of xanthoma. Report of a Case The patient was a 44-year-old white woman with rheumatoid arthritis and Sjogren's Syndrome referred by the Arthritis and Rheumatism Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Metabolic Diseases to the Ophthalmology Branch,
Application of SONET Adaptive Rate to multi-carriers transport network

This paper provides a current assessment of SONET Adaptive Rate technique from the local access service provider perspective. It also highlights how it shortens the service provisioning and activation processes from weeks to hours.
Amino acid compositions of simian virus 40 structural proteins.

Abstract The structural proteins of purified SV40 particles were isolated by preparative polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and the amino acid composition of each protein was obtained. The amino acid composition of VP1 (the major coat protein) was significantly different to that of VP3 (the capsid protein most closely associated with SV40 DNA). The amino acid compositions of VP4, VP5 and VP6 indicated that these proteins were not exclusively histones.
Real-Time Quantification of Time-Gated Autofluorescence Spectrum Shape to Track Mitochondrial Metabolism

Recent studies by various groups report the use of NADH as an intrinsic optical biomarker and metabolic indicator. Using measurements of excited-state lifetime or anisotropy decay, different forms of intracellular NADH were identified and monitored, with the response of NADH to metabolic conditions being more complex than a simple concentration change. Recently, we report an approach for the real-time tracking of UV-excited autofluorescence based on the rapid quantification of spectrum shape. Here, we show that nanosecond-gated spectral acquisition - combined with spectrum-shape quantification (such as with spectral phasor analysis) - can be used to track the physiologic response of a cellular system (Saccharomyces cereviseae) to the addition of mitochondrial functional modifiers (e.g., cyanide) and metabolic substrates (e.g., ethanol and glucose). We demonstrate that time-gated detection allows for the rejection of short excited-state-lifetime emission. We observe that the spectrum shape of long excited-state-lifetime autofluorescence exhibits a different response to chemical additions than that of the time-integrated autofluorescence, even allowing for the discrimination between nominally similar responses. Results are consistent with the existence of multiple NADH forms, as changes in autofluorescence spectrum shape cannot be accounted for by a two spectra model. Time-gated spectroscopy combined with rapid spectrum-shape analysis may lead to new and useful approaches for the real-time tracking of cellular metabolic state.
Recreational deer hunting tree stand injuries in the USA: A brief review

Almost 11 million people are estimated to be recreational deer hunters in the USA. This review summarizes current knowledge regarding tree stand injuries associated with deer hunting, a popular outdoor recreational activity in the USA. Injuries from falling from tree stands now represent a greater threat to hunters than firearms injuries. Reported injury rates, when sufficient information was provided, varied from 0.002 to 0.053. One of the most commonly reported injuries was to the spinal cord. Contributing accident factors were: mechanical failures, use of intoxicants, failure to use a fall arrest device, falling asleep, and carelessness. Ascending and descending from the stand were found to be particularly hazardous. Better record keeping and improved outdoor education might improve the safety of this outdoor activity.
Simulation of the Syst-Eur randomized control trial using a primary care electronic medical record was feasible

Abstract Objective To determine the validity of outcome research using a primary care practice database by comparing a randomized controlled trial (RCT) with a simulated one. Study Design and Setting A cohort from the United Kingdom General Practice Research Database (GPRD) was used to simulate the Systolic Hypertension in Europe (Syst-Eur) trial, a study of antihypertensive therapy of isolated systolic hypertension, by replicating all aspects of that RCT (selection criteria, study time frame, treatment, and outcomes) except randomization. Results The exposed and unexposed groups in the GPRD study exhibited similar baseline characteristics. Stroke, the primary RCT outcome, decreased significantly in both the RCT (incidence rate ratio IRR = 0.58) and the GPRD study (IRR = 0.68). Myocardial infarction decreased nonsignificantly but similarly in both studies (RCT IRR = 0.70; GPRD IRR = 0.74). With the GPRD study extended for 3 years more, myocardial infarction decreased significantly, comparable to findings from the Systolic Hypertension in the Elderly Program (SHEP), another RCT similar to Syst-Eur. Conclusions The findings support the potential value of clinical databases to investigate treatment effectiveness. RCT simulation using the GPRD may be the most feasible way to assess observational study validity in comparison to RCTs. The extended GPRD study shows the feasibility of using a simulated study to supplement the results of an RCT of limited duration.
Hardware complexities of algebraic soft-decision Reed-Solomon decoders and comparisons

Algebraic soft-decision (ASD) decoding of Reed-Solomon (RS) codes can achieve significant coding gain over hard-decision decoding. For practical implementation purpose, ASD algorithms with simple multiplicity assignment schemes are preferred. This paper answers the question of which practical ASD algorithm has lower hardware complexity. In addition, decoder complexity comparisons for an example (458, 410) RS code constructed over GF(210) are presented. This paper also provides discussions on how the hardware complexities of ASD decoders change with codeword length, code rate and other parameters.
Letter to the Editor-Some Confidence Intervals for Queues

It is possible to calculate for many queuing situations, in the steady state, the state probabilities, the expected number of units in the system or in the queue, the proportion of idle time per channel, and other quantities of interest. These quantities are calculated as a function of the number of channels, the queuing discipline, and the parameters of the distributions of arrival and service times. If the parameters of the distributions are known exactly, then the results are exact. In many cases of interest, however, the parameters are not known exactly and estimates must be used. In such situations one obtains estimates rather than exact values for the state probabilities, expected number of units in the queue, and the other quantities. In order to make use of these estimates it is important to know the precision of the estimates as measured by their respective confidence intervals. In this paper confidence intervals are calculated for several cases of interest.
Perioperative risk and late outcome of nonelective carotid endarterectomy.

Abstract Purpose: In an earlier report of our database for 1924 isolated carotid endarterectomies (CEAs) from 1989 to 1995, multivariable analysis results indicated that the urgency of operation unfavorably influenced the combined stroke and mortality rate (CSM). This study was conducted in an attempt to document the features that contribute to perioperative complications and late outcome in 314 patients for whom CEA was considered to be nonelective because of the severity of previous symptoms, carotid stenosis, or medical comorbidities. Methods: All the hospital charts and outpatient records were reviewed retrospectively for the 209 men and 105 women who had undergone nonelective CEAs (median age, 69 years). Information regarding the clinical risk factors, the operative indications (CHAT classification), the severity and distribution of carotid disease, and the surgical management were analyzed to assess the impact on the 30-day CSM and on the long-term survival rate and neurologic events during a median follow-up period of 34 months. Results: Previous symptoms had occurred in 285 patients (91%) and included cortical transient ischemic attacks in 47%, amaurosis fugax in 20%, completed strokes in 14%, unstable strokes in 2%, and nonspecific or miscellaneous symptoms in 8%. Preoperative angiography was performed in 308 patients (98%), which confirmed the presence of 80% to 99% ipsilateral carotid stenosis in 79% of the patients and >90% stenosis in 43%. The median interval between presentation and surgical treatment was 2 days, but 48% of the 314 CEAs were performed within 24 hours of presentation. The 30-day CSM was 6.7% and ranged from 3.4% for 29 patients with severe asymptomatic carotid stenosis to 14% for those patients with unstable strokes. The cardiac and pulmonary risk factors were the only variables that were related statistically to the CSM. During the follow-up period, the risk for ipsilateral stroke was significantly higher in women (risk ratio [RR], 2.38; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02 to 5.56; P = .04) and in patients with higher gradients of cardiac and pulmonary risk factors (RR, 2.8; 95% CI, 1.6 to 4.8 per gradient increase; P P = .006) in comparison with synthetic patching. However, 38 of the 55 patients (69%) who underwent synthetic patching also had widespread atherosclerosis for which the saphenous veins already had been harvested for coronary bypass grafting surgery or infrainguinal revascularization. Conclusion: In our experience, the perioperative risk of nonelective CEA primarily is determined by incidental cardiopulmonary disease. Vein patch angioplasty appears to enhance late results, but the late stroke rate associated with synthetic patching also may have been influenced by the extent of vascular disease in our study group. (J Vasc Surg 1999;30:618-31.)
Surfing on microtubule ends.

Abstract A crowd of proteins seems to have gathered around the plus-ends of microtubules. A rapidly expanding group of proteins known as plus-end tracking proteins (+TIPs) have been identified that seem to be able to ‘surf' the dynamic ends of microtubules. Microtubule plus-ends exist in multiple conformational and chemical states. In principle, altering this plus-end microenvironment is an appealing way for regulators such as the +TIPS to control microtubule dynamics; however, specific mechanisms are poorly defined. Here, we focus on new findings addressing the underlying mechanisms of plus-end tracking and the mechanisms by which +TIPS control microtubule dynamics. We review the evidence that plus-end-binding and the control of microtubule dynamics are mechanistically linked. We also consider the possibility that, by studying +TIPs, we might learn more about the dynamic structural changes at the microtubule ends that are at the heart of dynamic instability.
Transgenic mouse models of lipoprotein metabolism and atherosclerosis

Lipoprotein transport genes have either been added to the germ line of mice by transgenic techniques or knocked out by homologous recombination in embryonic stem cells. The resultant over- or underexpression of these genes has resulted in new insights about how these genes function in the body and their role in lipoprotein metabolism. Either singly or in combination, these genetic modifications can be used to engineer the mouse to make it a better model for human lipoprotein disorders and atherosclerosis.
Novel Applications of Rapid Thermal Chemical Vapor Deposition for Nanoscale MOSFET’s

In this paper we examine several applications of Rapid Thermal Chemical Vapor Deposition (RTCVD) for the fabrication of sub-100 rum MOSFET’s. Vertical dual-gated MOSFET’s are used as a test vehicle to implement FET’s of very short channel length. To realize such devices, the ability of epitaxial Si1-x-y, GexCy layers for suppressing the thermal diffusion, transient enhanced diffusion, and oxidation enhanced diffusion of boron both in the Si1-x-y, GexCy and in nearby Si layers is very useful Novel gate electrodes deposited by RTCVD also showed the ability to greatly reduce boron penetration in ptype polycrystalline gates for p-channel FET’s.
Denture plaque control and inflammation in the edentulous patient

The relationship between denture base plaque and mucosal inflammation under complete dentures was tested by clinical comparison with the PTI and a comparable plaque-scoring technique. Two treatment groups, one of which practiced tissue-brushing only and the other denture-brushing only, were compared with a control group with regard to mucosal inflammation and denture plaque score. Significant reduction in inflammation occurred, although no reduction in denture base plaque score was found. The effect of denture plaque on denture stomatitis and the efficacy of denture-brushing as a plaque removal technique is challenged.
Area-volume properties of fluid interfaces in turbulence: scale-local self-similarity and cumulative scale dependence

Area-volume properties of fluid interfaces are investigated to quantify the scale-local and cumulative structure. An area-volume density g 3 (λ) and ratio Ω 3 (λ) are introduced to examine the interfacial behaviour as a function of scale λ or across a range of scales, respectively. These measures are demonstrated on mixed-fluid interfaces from whole-field ∼ 1000 3 three-dimensional space-time concentration measurements in turbulent jets above the mixing transition, at Re ∼ 20000 and Sc ∼ 2000, recorded by laser-induced-fluorescence and digital-imaging techniques, with Taylor's hypothesis applied. The cumulative structure is scale dependent in Ω 3 (λ), with a dimension D 3 (λ) that increases with increasing scale. In contrast, the scale-local structure exhibits self-similarity in g 3 (λ) with an exponent α g 1.3 for these interfaces. The scale dependence in the cumulative structure arises from the large scales, while the self-similarity corresponds to the small-scale area-volume contributions. The small scales exhibit the largest area-volume density and provide the dominant contributions to the total area-volume ratio, which corresponds to ∼ 10 times the area of a purely large-scale interface for the present flow conditions
Nitrogen metabolism by ruminal microorganisms: current understanding and future perspectives

This review presents an outline of our current understanding of ruminal nitrogen metabolism from three perspectives: proteolytic microorganisms and their enzymes, intraruminal recycling of microbial protein, and enzymes of ammonia assimilation. Some of the pending advances and future research opportunities in these areas are also discussed. The 'smugglin' concept appears to offer the potential to inhibit peptide-utilizing bacteria selectively in the rumen, as demonstrated by initial studies with Prevotella ruminicola. The relative contributions of protozoa-, bacteriophage-, and self-mediated lysis of bacteria to intraruminal recycling of microbial protein are not yet quantified, and further efforts to understand the biology and dynamics of ruminal bacteriophage and protozoa populations are warranted. In Ruminococcus flavefaciens and Prevotella ruminicola, glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) appears to be the predominant route of ammonia assimilation irrespective of ammonia concentration, and peptides modulate GDH activity in P. ruminicola. The physiological basis behind the difference between optimal ammonia concentrations for ruminal fibre digestion and microbial protein synthesis remains unclear. Molecular biology techniques extend beyond their application in pursuit of the 'superbug' concept, by offering new and exciting opportunities to understand better microbial physiology, diversity, and ecology. Fundamental research in these areas must be continued if further advances in feed utilization and nutrient retention are to be realized.
Anatomical and neurobehavioral investigations concerning the thalamo-cortical organization of the rat's visual system.

The organization of thalamic afferents to the rat's visual cortex was investigated autoradiographically and through the retrograde transport of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) following injections into striate and peristriate cortex. The results revealed that Nucleus lateralis posterior (NLP) projects to a large peristriate cortical field that includes areas 18A, 7, and the anterior portion of area 18, and to a circumscribed temporal area corresponding to Krieg's ('46a,b) area 20. The dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (LGNd) was shown to project to two spatially discontinuous cortical areas. The largest geniculate receiving area is partially coextensive with Krieg's area 17, but an extension of this projection posterior and medial to the striate cortex was found. In addition, a geniculate projection to a restricted field located in the lateral peristriate cortex was identified. Concurrent investigations were designed to assess the pattern discrimination abilities of rats prepared with striate cortical ablations, lesions in NLP and combined striate-cortical and thalamic ablations. Comparison of these animals with normal control subjects revealed that the striate cortex in the rat (as in the cat [Doty, '71; Sprague et al., '77] and the tree shrew [Killackey and Diamond, '71; Ware et al., '74]) is not necessary for successful pattern discrimination, and that the geniculo-striate and NLP-extra-striate projection systems are both involved in mediating the visual discriminative abilities of the rat. The results add species generality to the concept that the central connections to the visual cortex are characterized by parallel-conducting thalamic channels and contribute to the growing number of demonstrations that the extra-striate cortex and associated thalamic cell groups contribute significantly to the process of visual-pattern recognition.
Understanding paediatric ECGs

Abstract The ability to interpret the paediatric electrocardiogram (ECG) correctly is a skill of value to all doctors who treat children, whether acutely or electively. Furthermore, basic ECG interpretation is a common component of paediatric postgraduate examinations. In this article we have aimed to arm the reader with the essential principles of paediatric ECG interpretation, highlighting age-specific variation. As with any other area of medicine, practice makes perfect. The reader would do well to inspect a number of normal and abnormal ECGs across the paediatric age range, keeping in mind the clinical background against which the investigation was performed. A comprehensive assessment of the paediatric ECG can then be made by cross-referencing ECG observations against the framework presented herein.
Natural history of spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis

Spondylolysis refers to a defect in the pars interarticularis of the vertebrae; spondyolisthesis, or a slippage of one vertebral body on another, can result from spondylolysis or other conditions. Both conditions may be a cause of low back pain, but are also commonly seen as incidental findings in asymptomatic patients. The natural history of these conditions is important to understand in order to counsel patients and determine a course of action when either diagnosis is made, and varies based upon etiology as well as patient characteristics.
Uninsured children: A state-by-state analysis

Abstract This article provides a state-by-state analysis of the uninsured component of health care for children. The topical area is significant because one usually does not expect that some—or any—children do not have health insurance coverage. The major findings were that the state rates of noncoverage of children depended on race/ethnicity and region when other variables were controlled. The findings raise the following fundamental questions: Can we consider health care to be at the same level of collective responsibility as education? Can we afford not to do so? Is there an expanded role for Medicaid?
Movement is Essential to Learning

(2003). Movement is Essential to Learning. Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance: Vol. 74, No. 9, pp. 22-25.
Almost extinct diseases: measles, mumps, rubella, and pertussis.

Introduction The availability of effective vaccines led to a dramatic decrease in the number of cases of measles, mumps, rubella, and pertussis reported each year. However, several years after their introduction, small but significant outbreaks began to appear in urban settings among clusters of children, adolescents, and young adults. Some of those who became ill were members of families that did not accept vaccine for religious reasons or because of fear of adverse reactions. Others were "vaccine failures," the 5% to 10% who did not respond to injected antigens or responded with only transient low levels of protective antibody. However, the majority of children who are infected during community outbreaks of contagious disease are those younger than school age who never received the vaccine. The requirement for immunization before school attendance and the new practice of administering a second dose of measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine to children of school age has resulted in relatively good levels of immunity among those 5 years of age and older, but more vigorous efforts are needed to protect a higher proportion of those not yet in school. Estimates for the year 1993, based on the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), revealed that 67.7% of children ages 19 to 35 months had received the series of vaccines recommended routinely: four doses of diphtheria and tetanus toxoids and whole-cell pertussis (DTP) vaccine, three doses of polio vaccine, and one dose of MMR.
Augmented reality: a novel approach for navigating in panorama-based virtual environments (PBVE)

This paper presents a novel approach for navigating in a panorama-based virtual environment (PBVE). A PBVE was constructed to synthesize the corresponding view when navigating. Users can interact with PBVE through augmented 3D graphic objects. Unlike traditional image-based virtual environment (VE) systems in which the functions of presenting 3D geometry and human-computer interaction (HCI) are very limited, the proposed PBVE system utilized augmented reality technology to enable users to interactively present 3D geometry. Therefore, the HCI ability is significantly increased and the gap between passive planar navigation and interactive human-VE three-dimensional navigation is eliminated.
Simple, rapid, and highly efficient separation of amino acid phenylthiohydantoins by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography

Abstract A rapid and efficient separation of amino acid phenylthiohydantoins by high-performance liquid chromatography has been accomplished by step-gradient elution with use of a mobile phase of acetate-buffered aqueous acetonitrile and an octadecylsilyl stationary phase. Typical analyses are completed in less than 12 min. Peak elution positions in this procedure are highly reproducible (with about 0.2% variance) and allow unambiguous identification of all residues. A procedure for the optimal positioning phenylthiohydantoin-Arg and -His is given. Molar extinction coefficients at 254 nm, which are particularly useful with common fixed wavelength detectors, are given for 25 amino acid phenylthiohydantoins.
THE EFFECTS OF THREAT OF SHOCK ON HEART RATE FOR SUBJECTS WHO DIFFER IN MANIFEST ANXIETY AND FEAR OF SHOCK

Although there is growing consensus that psychophysiological response to stress is in part a function of the Ss’ definition of the situation, many investigators continue to ignore individual differences in Ss’ interpretation of stressor situations. In this study, high (HA) and low (LA) anxiety Ss were run in Threat of Shock and No Threat Conditions. The Threat Condition produced a significant mean increase in heart rate (HR) as compared to the No Threat Condition, but there was no difference in the HR response of HA and LA Ss to threat of shock. However, Ss who reported moderate to extreme fear of shock two months prior to the experiment responded with greater HR acceleration than Ss who reported little or no fear. These findings were discussed in terms of a conceptualization of “anxiety” which distinguishes between anxiety as a transitory state of the organism and as a relatively permanent personality trait. It was concluded that Ss’“cognitive appraisal” of an experimental situation was an important determinant of psychophysiological responses to stress.
Signal transduction between the chloroplast and the nucleus

Chloroplasts are essential for the unique photoautotrophic and sessile existence of higher plants. Chloroplasts account for >50% of the total soluble protein in leaves, and these proteins are encoded by both nuclear and chloroplast genomes. This separation of genetic information necessitates
Physiological Influences on Cell Division Patterns in the div IV-B1 Minicell-Producing Mutant of Bacillus subtilis

The proportion of abnormal divisions resulting in minicells is influenced by growth stage and medium composition.
Thermal Decomposition of Zircon Refractories

Zircon can be used to make refractory brick for the glass industry. At elevated temperatures it is known to dissociate into silica and zirconia. This study was undertaken because one of the factors that can adversely affect the quality of the glass melted in zircon-lined tanks is the degree of dissociation. The thermal dissociation of purified and unpurified zircon refractory was studied by ambient- and high-temperature X-ray diffraction (HTXRD) to understand the high-temperature performance of brick made from this material. Most of the data were collected on powders at or below 1650°C; however, data were collected between 1400° and 2000°C. In addition, small pieces of the refractory were heated to 1650°C, cooled to room temperature, and then examined under ambient conditions. The degree of dissociation was shown to be dependent on purity, particle size, peak temperature, and time at temperature. The HTXRD dissociation was monitored using the intensity of the tetragonal zirconia peaks. The monoclinic polymorph was measured in the ambient runs. High-temperature mass spectrometry (HTMS) showed that the silica is vaporized at elevated temperatures.
Microfilament Disruption in a Noncycling Organized Tissue, the Corneal Endothelium, Initiates Mitosis

The adult corneal endothelium represents a noncycling cell population that resides as a monolayer on its basement membrane, Descemet's membrane. Evidence is presented for the first time, showing that mitotic regulation in this organized tissue, residing on its natural basement membrane, is coupled to microfilament integrity. When mitotically quiescent rat corneal endothelia are organ cultured in medium containing serum and cytochalasin B, low levels of mitosis are initiated. Supplementing the culture medium with either insulin or IGF-2 augments this response and results in increased cell density within the tissue monolayer. Fluorescence microscopy of actin using TRITC-conjugated phalloidin revealed that cellular circumferential microfilament bundles appear unaffected by cytochalasin B treatment, whereas the cytoplasmic microfilaments appear to be completely disrupted. These results suggest the possibility that the actin cytoskeleton is involved with the regulation of cell growth in the corneal endothelium.
Physical activity levels of students with mental retardation and students without disabilities.

This study compared physical education and recess physical activity levels of elementary school age students with mild mental retardation (MR) and students without disabilities who possessed either high or low cardiorespiratory fitness. For this study, the System for Observing Fitness Instructional Time (SOFIT), a measure of physical activity, was validated for students with mild MR. A significant difference for moderate to vigorous physical activity was obtained between settings. Findings suggest that students with MR and those without disabilities were more active during recess than during physical education. Students with mild MR and those with low cardiorespiratory fitness performed similarly in both the physical education and recess settings.
Primary laparoscopic placement of peritoneal dialysis catheters in children and young adults

Background: Primary placement of peritoneal dialysis catheters in children often requires suturing of the catheter into the pelvis. We describe our experience with a gasless laparoscopy technique in children and young adults.
Identification of N‐acetylglucosamine binding residues in Griffonia simplicifolia lectin II

Primary structure and crystallographic data of several legume lectins were used to predict the involvement in carbohydrate binding of six amino acid residues (Asp88, Glu108, Tyr134, Asn136, Leu226 and Gln227) in Griffonia simplicifolia lectin II (GS-II). The functional involvement of these residues was evaluated by assessing GlcNAc binding of modified forms of GS-II in which these residues were eliminated in truncated peptides or systematically substituted with other amino acids by site-specific mutations. Mutations at (Asp88, Tyr134 or Asn136 eliminated GlcNAc binding activity by GS-II, while those at Glut108, Leu226 or Gln227 did not alter the activity. The former three amino acids were functionally essential for carbohydrate binding by GS-II presumably through hydrogen bonding to and hydrophobic interactions with GlcNAc. Although an Asp or Gly substitution for Tyr134 eliminated GlcNAc affinity, substitution with Phe did not appreciably affect binding. Despite the fact that mutations to Leu226 and Gln227 did not alter carbohydrate binding, a truncated form of GS-II lacking these residues no longer exhibited carbohydrate binding affinity.
Insulin-like growth factor-binding proteins in healthy and atretic follicles during natural menstrual cycles.

An increasing body of evidence suggests a regulatory role for insulin-like growth factor-binding proteins (IGFBPs) in ovarian folliculogenesis. Although IGFBPs have been identified in the follicular fluid (FF) from women undergoing hyperstimulation for in vitro fertilization, little is known about the pattern of IGFBP expression during follicle development in natural menstrual cycles. The purpose of the present study was to determine the pattern of IGFBPs in the FF of healthy and atretic follicles during the follicular phase of natural menstrual cycles. FF was aspirated from follicles in normal ovaries of regularly cycling women. Dominant follicles were identified as the largest follicle in either ovary with an androstenedione to estradiol ratio in the FF of 4 or less. The androstenedione/estradiol ratio in atretic follicles was greater than 4. IGFBPs in the FF samples were analyzed by ligand blotting with [125I]IGF-II. The identities of the BPs measured by ligand blotting were confirmed by immunoblot and...
3D GrabCut: interactive foreground extraction for reconstructed 3D scenes

In the near future, mobile devices will be able to measure the 3D geometry of an environment using integrated depth sensing technology. This technology will enable anyone to reconstruct a 3D model of their surroundings. Similar to natural 2D images, a 3D model of a natural scene will occasionally contain a desired foreground object and an unwanted background region. Inspired by GrabCut for still images, we propose a system to perform interactive foreground/background segmentation on a reconstructed 3D scene using an intuitive user interface. Our system is designed to enable anyone, regardless of skill, to extract a 3D object from a 3D scene with a minimal amount of effort. The only input required by the user is a rectangular box around the desired object. We performed several experiments to demonstrate that our system produces high-quality segmentation on a wide variety of 3D scenes.
A Simple Technique for Submicron Scale Patterning of Silver Using Visible Light Interference

A novel, one step and simple methodology for the fabrication of submicron scale silver patterns is demonstrated. The photosensitivity of an organic silver salt has been utilized for this purpose of fabrication. The silver-organometallic compound is converted to metallic silver selectively in the illuminated regions. Surface morphology was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Energy dispersion spectroscopy (EDS) shows the presence of silver in the developed film. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) confirms the formation of metallic silver. Feature sizes of the order of 200 nm have been achieved using this technique.
Effects of activated factor X inhibitor, JTV-803, in a pig model of hemodialysis.

Abstract JTV-803 (4-[(2-amidino-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinolin-7-yloxy)methyl]-1-(4-pyridinyl)piperidine-4-carboxylic acid monomethanesulfonate trihydrate), a specific inhibitor of factor Xa, was evaluated in a pig hemodialysis model with ligation of renal arteries. In this model, JTV-803 administered into the dialysis circuit showed an anticoagulant effect (prolongation of dialysis time) at doses of 0.3 mg/kg+0.3, 1.0 and 3.0 mg/kg/h. The prolongation of dialysis time in the 0.3 mg/kg+1.0 mg/kg/h JTV-803 group was comparable to that in the 15 U/kg+7.5 U/kg/h heparin group. The plasma concentrations of JTV-803 following 0.3 mg/kg+1.0 mg/kg/h infusion of the drug into the dialysis circuit was 500 ng/ml or less, and prothrombin time was 1.5-fold or less than the pretreatment value. JTV-803 was removed by passing the blood through a dialyzer, resulting in a clearance rate of 53.4–81.8%. After the end of dialysis, plasma concentrations of JTV-803 decreased rapidly with time. These results suggest that human factor Xa inhibitor JTV-803 may have good potential as an antithrombotic agent during hemodialysis, with lower likelihood of bleeding after the end of dialysis.
Reduced Fat Cheddar Cheese from Condensed Milk. 1. Manufacture, Composition, and Ripening

Abstract Five replicates of reduced fat Cheddar cheese were manufactured from condensed milk. Four treatments were applied: control, uncondensed, 10.3% total solids; condensed, 15.4, 18.3, and 22.2% total solids. Cheese moisture was 45.96, 45.06, 43.29, and 42.99%, respectively, for the four treatments with a 15-min washing and 15-min cooking time at 34 to 36°C. Cheese yield at 45% moisture increased significantly with increasing total solids in milk. A sensory panel found a marked overall improvement in flavor, flavor intensity, and body and texture over a ripening period of 6 mo at 6 to 7°C for all cheeses. After 13 to 14 mo, almost no bitterness was present in the condensed milk cheese. Condensed milk cheeses had a lower body and texture score than the control cheeses. Cheese from condensed milk with 22.2% total solids was extremely firm and crumbly. Acceptable flavor, flavor intensity, and an increased shelf-life were obtained when condensed milk was used. Proteolysis and microbial activity decreased as concentration increased and may have been the reason for good flavor development without bitterness in condensed milk cheeses.
A Low-Hassle, Low-Cost Method to Survey Student Attitudes about Library Space

In April 2013, the Leonard Lief Library of Lehman College, City University of New York, was offered the opportunity to submit a proposal for renovation. Unfortunately, the deadline was July, which left little time for systematic research and assessment. This article explains how, with limited time and resources, librarians at Lehman College completed a survey of student satisfaction with library space. The authors discuss how they created and distributed a brief paper survey (provided as an appendix), devised a quick-and-dirty coding system, and worked as a group using Google spreadsheets to compile survey results. Mistakes and lessons learned are recounted.
Ambient Molecular Analysis of Biological Tissue Using Low-Energy, Femtosecond Laser Vaporization and Nanospray Postionization Mass Spectrometry

Direct analysis of plant and animal tissue samples by laser electrospray mass spectrometry (LEMS) was investigated using low-energy, femtosecond duration laser vaporization at wavelengths of 800 and 1042 nm followed by nanospray postionization. Low-energy (<50 μJ), fiber-based 1042 nm LEMS (F-LEMS) allowed interrogation of the molecular species in fresh flower petal and leaf samples using 435 fs, 10 Hz bursts of 20 pulses from a Ytterbium-doped fiber laser and revealed comparable results to high energy (75-1120 μJ), 45 fs, 800 nm Ti:Sapphire-based LEMS (Ti:Sapphire-LEMS) measurements. Anthocyanins, sugars, and other metabolites were successfully detected and revealed the anticipated metabolite profile for the petal and leaf samples. Phospholipids, especially phosphatidylcholine, were identified from a fresh mouse brain section sample using Ti:Sapphire-LEMS without the application of matrix. These lipid features were suppressed in both the fiber-based and Ti:Sapphire-based LEMS measurements when the brain sample was prepared using the optimal cutting temperature compounds that are commonly used in animal tissue cryosections.
Second-generation H1-antihistamines in chronic urticaria: an evidence-based review.

The effects of urticaria are predominantly mediated by histamine release; therefore, H1-antihistamines are the mainstay of treatment. Second-generation H1-antihistamines, compared with their first-generation counterparts, have demonstrated improved peripheral H1-receptor selectivity and decreased lipophilicity (which minimizes CNS adverse effects), and antiallergic properties in addition to being histamine inverse agonists.
Biology Education Research 2.0.

Biology education research (BER) 2.0 has arrived, and is moving the BER community beyond showing that active learning works to understanding the individual and contextual factors that explain and i...
Molecular recognition of aliphatic diamines by 3,3'-di(trifluoroacetyl)-1,1'-bi-2-naphthol.

The fluorescent responses of 3,3′-di(trifluoroacetyl)-1,1′-bi-2-naphthol toward a variety of amines have been studied. It was found that the aliphatic primary 1,2- and 1,5-diamines can greatly enhance the fluorescence of this compound, but under the same conditions, primary, secondary, and tertiary monoamines cannot turn on the fluorescence of this compound. In addition, this compound was shown to be an enantioselective and diastereoselective fluorescent sensor for chiral diamines. UV absorption and NMR spectroscopic methods have been used to study the interaction of the sensor with amines. These studies have demonstrated that the intramolecular OH···O═C hydrogen bonding of the sensor is important for both the reactivity of its trifluoroacetyl group with the amines and its fluorescent responses. The interaction of both of the two amine groups of a diamine molecule with the sensor is essential for the observed fluorescent sensitivity and selectivity.
Cell Membranes Open “Doors” for Cationic Nanoparticles/Biomolecules: Insights into Uptake Kinetics

Cationic nanoparticles (NPs) and cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) can enter cells in an energy-independent fashion, escaping the traditional endocytosis route, which is known as direct translocation. This unconventional entry, usually complementary to endocytosis, features rapid uptake and thus makes both cationic NPs and CPPs fascinating intracellular delivery agents. However, the mechanisms of the direct translocation of both cationic NPs and CPPs across cell membranes into the cytosol are not understood. Moreover, the relationship between direct translocation and endocytosis is also unclear. Here, using coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations we show that a model cell membrane generates a nanoscale hole to assist the spontaneous translocation of cationic gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) as well as HIV-1 Tat peptides to the cytoplasm side under a transmembrane (TM) potential. After translocation, the AuNPs/Tat peptides move freely in the “cytoplasm” region and the membrane reseals itself within a micros...
BRCA1-hapoinsufficiency: Unraveling the molecular and cellular basis for tissue-specific cancer

Over the past 20 years tremendous progress has been made in understanding the function of BRCA1 gene products. Yet one question still remains: why is mutation of BRCA1 typically associated with preferential development of breast and ovarian cancers and not tumors in other tissues? Here we discuss recent evidence documenting the effect of BRCA1-haploinsufficiency in different cells and tissues and synthesize a model for how mutations in a single BRCA1 allele in human cells might preferentially confer increased cancer risk in breast epithelial cells.
Modification of energizing effects of electric shock on a reaction-time task.

Festinger's (1957) "cognitive dissonance" has been called a drive by a numbernof re- The present study sought to induce dissonance by presenting information to S at vari- ance with his declared perception. More specifically, each was to commit himself by declar- ing, in the course of establishing a pain threshold for electrical shock, that the shock had reached a level that was painful to him. Later, it would be indicated that this level of shock was much lower than S had originally thought. Thus, confronted with this informa- tion, S would be in a state of dissonance since his declared perceptions differed from what was presented as reality. The "dissonance" would then have an energizing effect on sub- sequent performance in a reaction-time task. Method.4~ were randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups. They were told they were taking part in an experiment to test the effects of electrical shock on reaction- time (RT). The pain threshold for electrical shock was established for all 18 male Ss by the ad- ministration of gradual increments of shock to each S's left index finger until he reported it as painful. Group A was designated the dissonance group. Following the pain threshold pro- cedure, Ss in this group underwent the following treatment. An accomplice came into the room and entered into a conversation with E in which the accomplice found fault with Ens procedure. The machinery was not set up right, and S was receiving only a fraction of the shock he should be receiving. Following this procedure, S was administered a standard re- action-time task. He was told that he would receive a shock at the level of his previously established threshold any time his performance fell below the average for his group. In actuality, Ss in all groups were shocked following specified trials. Treatment for Group B was identical to that for Group A except that the accomplice found nothing wrong with E's procedure. Group C received a control treatment designed to test for the effects of shock itself in the presence or absence of dissonance. The shock administered to Ss in this group was reduced by 25% from the established pain threshold. Results.-The mean RTs (in seconds) over all trials for Groups A, B, and C were .15
Quantum Tools for Classical Coherence

The statistical description of optical fields in coherence theory is based on underlying fluctuations originating at the source or during propagation through a random medium. We show that uncertainty (partial coherence) also stems from the act of ignoring a degree of freedom of a beam when observing another degree of freedom classically entangled with it. Specifically, we demonstrate that Bell’s measure, commonly used in tests of quantum non-locality, is as a quantitative tool that delineates intrinsic incoherence associated with statistical fluctuations from classical entanglement-based incoherence. This demonstrates, more generally, the applicability of concepts from quantum information processing to classical optical coherence theory and optical signal processing.
Detection Protocols for West Nile Virus in Mosquitoes, Birds, and Nonhuman Mammals

West Nile virus is the most widespread mosquito-borne virus in the world, and the most common cause of encephalitis in the USA. Surveillance for this medially important mosquito-borne pathogen is an important part of public health practice. Here we present protocols for testing environmental samples such as mosquitoes, nonvertebrate mammals, and birds for this virus, including RT-PCR, virus isolation in cell culture, and antigenic assays, as well as serologic assays for antibody detection.
The histological variants of liposarcoma: predictive MRI findings with prognostic implications, management, follow-up, and differential diagnosis

Liposarcoma is the single most common soft tissue sarcoma accounting for up to 35 % of sarcomas. It represents a histologically diverse group of soft tissue tumors that demonstrate a wide range of imaging appearances with varied behavior patterns. Correspondingly, more aggressive histological subtypes often require management that includes a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Distinguishing among liposarcoma subtypes has important therapeutic and prognostic implications. In this manuscript, we review the liposarcoma subtypes and their histologic and MRI findings, prognostic implications, and differential diagnostic considerations.
Application of office ultrasound in the management of the spinal cord injury patient.

AbstractThe effectiveness of office ultrasonography of the bladder and kidneys to provide routine urological followup was assessed in the outpatient spinal cord injury clinic. A total of 86 asymptomatic spinal cord injury patients underwent office ultrasonography of the kidneys and bladder as part of the routine urological followup. There were 106 ultrasound scans performed. Of the patients 68 had a blinded excretory urogram for comparison, including 20 who underwent additional studies (computerized tomography scans of the abdomen and pelvis, and/or radiologist-performed ultrasound examinations of the kidneys and bladder). All 18 patients who underwent office ultrasound but not excretory urography each underwent computerized tomography scans of the abdomen and pelvis and/or radiologist-performed ultrasound examinations of the kidneys and bladder. Office ultrasound detected 5 of 6 kidney stones, 6 of 6 hydronephrotic kidneys, 5 of 7 renal masses (4 of 6 cysts and 1 of 1 renal tumor), 3 of 3 bladder stones ...