cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Accommodating Student Diversity in Reading and Writing Instruction: A Cooperative Learning Approach

Cooperative Integrated Reading and Composition (CIRC) combines mixed-ability cooperative learning teams and same-ability reading groups to teach reading, writing, and language arts in heterogeneous intermediate classes containing mainstreamed special education and remedial reading students. Students engage in a wide range of cooperative activities in four- to five-member teams. In reading, students read aloud with their partners, identify components of the story grammar; practice vocabulary, decoding, and spelling; and write a composition in response to stories. They receive direct instruction in reading comprehension skills and practice them in their teams. In writing/langauge arts, a structured writing process is used in which students work with teammates to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish compositions. Two studies of the full CIRC model and one of the reading comprehension component found that the program increased the reading, language arts, and writing achievemnt of all students, including mai...
High collecting efficiency of an LED projection system

Due to Light Emitting Diode (LED) have the properties of compact size and high efficiency, there have more and more illumination system use it to be a lighting source. In this paper, a compact projection system was designed by a simple architecture. For this compact projection system, the prototype has been developed by using a single tranmissive light valve and LED source in it. With a simple collecting light reflector, a curved mirror and a light tunnel of the illumination system, the optical efficiency from the source to light valve is up to over 70% and the uniformity illuminated on the light valve is over 85%.
Resolving the roles of body size and species identity in driving functional diversity

Efforts to characterize food webs have generated two influential approaches that reduce the complexity of natural communities. The traditional approach groups individuals based on their species identity, while recently developed approaches group individuals based on their body size. While each approach has provided important insights, they have largely been used in parallel in different systems. Consequently, it remains unclear how body size and species identity interact, hampering our ability to develop a more holistic framework that integrates both approaches. We address this conceptual gap by developing a framework which describes how both approaches are related to each other, revealing that both approaches share common but untested assumptions about how variation across size classes or species influences differences in ecological interactions among consumers. Using freshwater mesocosms with dragonfly larvae as predators, we then experimentally demonstrate that while body size strongly determined how predators affected communities, these size effects were species specific and frequently nonlinear, violating a key assumption underlying both size- and species-based approaches. Consequently, neither purely species- nor size-based approaches were adequate to predict functional differences among predators. Instead, functional differences emerged from the synergistic effects of body size and species identity. This clearly demonstrates the need to integrate size- and species-based approaches to predict functional diversity within communities.
Clamped circular rigid-plastic plates under central blast loading

Abstract A theoretical study is made of clamped circular plates of rigid-plastic material subjected to blast loading uniformly distributed over a central circular area. The dependence of the permanent central deflection on pressure, impulse and loaded area is obtained when the blast pulse is taken as a rectangular pulse.
(A Review) Carbon Nanotubes Used for Renewable Energy Applications and Environmental Protection/Remediation

Carbon nanotubes are surprisingly ubiquitous in their use for renewable energy applications as well as for environmental protection and remediation. Hence, this is the motivation for the current review, to investigate into their usefulness. The characteristic properties of these nanotubes is a result of their large surface areas, and their unique mechanical, electrical and chemical properties, and in no small part, due to its relatively easy manufacturability. Research has been done using carbon nanotubes for hydrogen storage, although it does not seem logical that carbon nanotubes would be very useful for this purpose. Carbon nanotubes used for solar collectors are used mainly for their improved thermal and electrical conductivities. Organic solar cells do not have a long life since they deteriorate in the sun. Research into long-lasting, yet inexpensive organic solar cells is an active area, and should continue to be so for some time. Carbon nanotubes are activated by certain chemicals. They may be used to react with solids, liquids and gases. Hence, they are employed for waste water treatment, liquid and gaseous cleanup. They may be used to remove metals as well as life pathogens. As the number of new pollutants and pathogens entering the environment multiply, research should continue to study the use of carbon nanotubes with regards prevention and remediation.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
A Randomized Trial Comparing the Effect of Two Phone-Based Interventions on Colorectal Cancer Screening Adherence

Early-stage diagnosis of colorectal cancer is associated with high survival rates; screening prevalence, however, remains suboptimal. This study seeks to test the hypothesis that participants receiving telephone-based tailored education or motivational interviewing had higher colorectal cancer screening completion rates compared to usual care. Primary care patients not adherent with colorectal cancer screening and with no personal or family history of cancer (n = 515) were assigned by block randomization to control (n = 169), tailored education (n = 168), or motivational interview (n = 178). The response rate was 70%; attrition was 24%. Highest screening occurred in the tailored education group (23.8%, p < .02); participants had 2.2 times the odds of completing a post-intervention colorectal cancer screening than did the control group (AOR = 2.2, CI = 1.2−4.0). Motivational interviewing was not associated with significant increase in post-intervention screening. Tailored education showed promise as a feasible strategy to increase colorectal cancer screening.
Effect of antabuse (disulfiram) on Rous sarcoma virus and on eukaryotic cells

Abstract Antabuse (disulfiram) is widely used in the treatment of chronic alcoholism. We have examined the effect of this drug on malignant transformation by Rous sarcoma virus, on eukaryotic cell synthesis, and on nucleic acid binding. It was found that: 1. (1) Disulfiram inhibits the activity of the RNA dependent DNA polymerase of Rous sarcoma virus and inactivates the ability of the virus to malignantly transform chick embryo cells. The monomer of disulfiram, diethyldithiocarbamate does not affect the virus. 2. (2) Disulfiram induced the synthesis of four proteins in normal chick embryo and human foreskin cells. The monomer diethyldithiocarbamate, induced these proteins also. Cellular DNA synthesis is more sensitive to disulfiram than are RNA and protein synthesis. 3. (3) Disulfiram binds to neither DNA or RNA in the presence or absence of copper. However, diethyldithiocarbamate in the presence of, but not in the absence of, copper binds to HeLa cell DNA and to Rous sarcoma virus 70 S genome RNA. These results indicate that this compound, which causes no symptoms in people who do not consume alcohol, may have significant effects on a cellular level.
Regulation of dynein-driven microtubule sliding by the axonemal protein kinase CK1 in Chlamydomonas flagella

Experimental analysis of isolated ciliary/flagellar axonemes has implicated the protein kinase casein kinase I (CK1) in regulation of dynein. To test this hypothesis, we developed a novel in vitro reconstitution approach using purified recombinant Chlamydomonas reinhardtii CK1, together with CK1-depleted axonemes from the paralyzed flagellar mutant pf17, which is defective in radial spokes and impaired in dynein-driven microtubule sliding. The CK1 inhibitors (DRB and CK1-7) and solubilization of CK1 restored microtubule sliding in pf17 axonemes, which is consistent with an inhibitory role for CK1. The phosphatase inhibitor microcystin-LR blocked rescue of microtubule sliding, indicating that the axonemal phosphatases, required for rescue, were retained in the CK1-depleted axonemes. Reconstitution of depleted axonemes with purified, recombinant CK1 restored inhibition of microtubule sliding in a DRB- and CK1-7-sensitive manner. In contrast, a purified "kinase-dead" CK1 failed to restore inhibition. These results firmly establish that an axonemal CK1 regulates dynein activity and flagellar motility.
Fixed-Dose Every-Other-Week Capecitabine and Oxaliplatin for Refractory Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck

Abstract Aims To maximize the palliative benefits of capecitabine and oxaliplatin for patients with refractory squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN). Methods Patients received fixed-dose capecitabine (1500 mg orally twice a day) on days 1 to 7 and oxaliplatin (85 mg/m 2 ) days 1 and 14. Results Fifteen patients with refractory SCCHN were enrolled. All patients had relapsed after surgery and had failed radiation therapy. Eighty-seven percent (13) had progressed after chemotherapy. The most common toxicities were grades 1 or 2 fatigue and anemia. There was a 13% partial response rate and 33% stable disease rate for a clinical benefit of 46% by Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors criteria. Conclusions Fixed-dose capecitabine and oxaliplatin combination on an every-other-week schedule showed activity in refractory SCCHN. The simplicity and toxicity profile of this regimen compares favorably with other commonly used chemotherapies and should be tested in larger studies.
Oxidative coupling of alcohols on gold: Insights from experiments and theory

Molecular level understanding of the mechanism of oxidative coupling of alcohols on metallic Au(111) activated by oxygen is achieved through a combination of experiments and theoretical calculations. The facility of the β–H elimination of the alkoxys, which increases with the length of the alkyl chain, is identified to be critical in determining the product distributions. Dioxymethylene serves as a formaldehyde reservoir in the cross-coupling reaction between methanol and formaldehyde through its reversible formation and decomposition, contributing to the high selectivity for the coupling products.
Heat transfer and stability properties of convection rolls in an internally heated fluid layer

A study has been made of stationary two-dimensional convection in an internally heated, infinite Prandtl number, horizontal fluid layer bounded above and below by rigid plates of unequal temperature. Sufficient conditions for instability of the quiescent state, as well as post-instability, two-dimensional finite amplitude convective solutions, and heat transfer are obtained as a function of the two Rayleigh number parameters and the wavenumber. Investigation of the stability of the finite amplitude convective motion reveals a region in the dual Rayleigh number domain wherein stationary, two-dimensional convection represents a stable solution of the equations of motion.
Searching for Kamalot: Political Patronage and Youth Politics in Uzbekistan

The Islam Karimov government in Uzbekistan is precariously brittle. Signs that the regime might collapse, though, would not be readily apparent if one's analytical framework derived solely from the...
Perceived stress and eating behaviors in a community-based sample of African Americans †

Previous studies have reported that psychological stress is associated with greater food consumption, particularly consumption of high fat foods. We are unaware of any studies that have examined stress-induced eating among African Americans (AAs). The goals of the current study were to examine the relationship between perceived stress and high fat eating behaviors in a sample of AAs, to examine whether this relationship is stronger among overweight and obese participants, and to examine whether haphazard meal planning mediates the relationship between perceived stress and high fat eating behaviors. One hundred fifty-nine adults from a metropolitan area completed the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), the Eating Behaviors Pattern Questionnaire (EBPQ), a demographic questionnaire, and body mass was assessed with BMI. Perceived stress was associated with haphazard planning and emotional eating, but not related to other high fat eating domains in the overall sample. These findings held for overweight and obese participants with the addition of snacking on sweets. High fat eating behaviors were not mediated by haphazard meal planning. These findings are consistent with other studies which demonstrate a link between stress and eating. Long-term interventions for high fat consumption and obesity should include an examination of perceived stress among AAs.
Nature of IgG anti-lymphocyte autoantibody-reactive molecules shed from activated T cells in systemic lupus erythematosus.

Shedding of cell-surface antigens that react with anti-lymphocyte autoantibodies in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is well-recognized, but the nature of such molecules is unknown. The present investigation demonstrates the rapid shedding of three IgG antibody target molecules of Mr 55 000, 37 000, and ∼32 000 from the surface of mitogen-activated peripheral T cells during brief incubation at 37°C. Sera lacking IgG anti-lymphocyte antibodies stained none of the three antigens. Absorption of antibody-positive sera with viable HSB-2 cells, a primitive T-cell line lacking HLA antigens and many CD antigens characteristic of mature peripheral T cells, eliminated staining of the shed molecules. These data delineate the number and estimated molecular mass of anti-lymphocyte autoantibody target molecules that are shed from the surface of T cells, and provide further insight into potential mechanisms by which anti-lymphocyte antibodies contribute to the pathogenesis of SLE and related disorders.
Stresses and finite strains around an elliptic hole in finite plates subjected to uniform load

Abstract This paper deals with stresses and large strains around an elliptic hole located symmetrically in the center of a long plate. The plate is loaded with uniform tension parallel to the minor axis. The deformation is sufficiently large to make the hole elliptical with the major axis parallel to the uniform tension. A series of five plate widths were investigated. Stresses and strains were analyzed for each plate width and for successive steps of load. Several experimental techniques were combined to solve the problem. Photoelasticity was used to determine stresses which are reported using a new definition for stress. Moire and grids were used to determine strains. Stress and strain concentration factors are evaluated at critical points on the axes.
Oscillating incompressible aerodynamics of a loaded airfoil cascade

On developpe un modele complet au premier ordre. Les champs d'ecoulement stationnaire et instationnaire dans la cascade sont analyses en considerant un ecoulement periodique dans un canal
Improved synthesis of the sulfur analog of serotonin (SAS)

SAS, 3-β-aminoethyl-5-hydroxybenzo(b)thiophene, the sulfur analog of serotonin, has proved refractory to synthesis. The various steps in its preparation have been refined, and its preparation in overall yield of about 20 percent in an eight-step sequence from commercially available m -hydroxyacetophenone has been achieved.
Velocity-difference probability density functions for Burgers turbulence

In this paper the Polyakov equation [Phys. Rev. E {bold 52}, 6183 (1995)] for the velocity-difference probability density functions, with the random Gaussian external force, with the correlation function {kappa}(y){approximately}1{minus}y{sup {alpha}}, is analyzed. Solutions for the cases {alpha}={l_brace}2,1/2,1{r_brace} are found, which agree very well with available numerical results. It is also argued that the stationary regime of Burgers turbulence can depend not only on the distribution of the external force, but also on the dissipative regularization. {copyright} {ital 1997} {ital The American Physical Society}
Performance of a point-of-care qualitative triple cardiac marker screen under controlled laboratory conditions and in an emergency department setting.

Background: The performance of point-of-care testing under controlled laboratory conditions may vary from results obtained in actual patient care settings. User errors are a major cause of this discrepancy. Methods: We studied the clinical performance of the Cardiac STATus (Spectral USA, Frederick, MD), a qualitative triple cardiac marker point-of-care test, under controlled laboratory conditions and in actual practice in an emergency department (ED) satellite laboratory. First-draw samples obtained from patients presenting to the hospital emergency department with chest pain were used for the study. Tests were performed in the chemistry research laboratory by a company product specialist or in an emergency department satellite laboratory by hospital staff. Test results were analyzed by correlation to the clinical discharge diagnosis. Results: In the emergency department, for the test system as a whole (any one or more marker(s) positive versus all three markers negative), sensitivity was 63%, specificity was 81%, positive predictive value was 26%, and negative predictive value was 95%. A manufacturer-supplied product specialist in a laboratory setting achieved very similar sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values. Conclusions: The performance of this system under controlled laboratory conditions can be applied to estimate its performance at the point of care.
Efferent neurons and specialization of abdominal segments in grasshoppers.

A specialized behavior, oviposition, is produced by the eighth and ninth abdominal segments of female grasshoppers. To begin to understand how these segments produce the behavior, which is not displayed by males or pregenital regions of the abdomen in females, the structure and function of efferent neurons in abdominal ganglia of both sexes were examined. In females, the eighth and ninth segments are specialized differently for oviposition: 20 ovipositor motor neurons were found in the eighth segment, and 26 were found in the ninth segment. Males had fewer motor neurons in their eighth segment, but the same number in the ninth segment, which is the only genital segment in males. However, the axons of several of the ninth segmental male motor neurons traveled to the periphery in the genital nerve, which is only found in males. In both sexes, pregenital ganglia had the most motor neurons, but these neurons, for the most part, had morphologies that strongly resembled those of genital segments. Efferent modulatory neuron numbers were not sexually dimorphic in the segments examined, except that males had a greater number in their ninth segment. Experimental methods that activate oviposition were found to also activate a rhythmical motor pattern in pregenital abdominal segments of both sexes. In females, the pattern was phase-coupled to oviposition, but persisted after the connections with the terminal abdominal ganglion were severed. The preponderance of similarities among efferent neurons and elicited motor activity suggests a common pattern of neural circuitry in the behaviorally diverse abdominal segments of grasshoppers.
Template Recognition and Ribonucleotide Specificity of the DNA Primase of Bacteriophage T7

The 63-kDa gene 4 DNA primase of phage T7 catalyzes the synthesis of oligoribonucleotides on single-stranded DNA templates. At the sequence, 5′-GTC-3′, the primase synthesizes the dinucleotide pppAC; the cytidine residue of the recognition sequence is cryptic. Only tetraribonucleotides function as primers, but the specificity for the third and fourth position is not as stringent with a preference of CMP > AMP > UMP > GMP. The predominant recognition sites on M13 DNA are 5′-(G/T)GGTC-3′ and 5′-GTGTC-3′. Synthesis is usually limited to tetranucleotides, but T7 primase can synthesize longer oligoribonucleotides on templates containing long stretches of guanosine residues 5′ to the recognition sequence. The specificity beyond the first two positions of the primer increases as the length of the template on the 3′-side of 5′-GTC-3′ increases. On an oligonucleotide having 20 3′-flanking cytidine residues GMP is incorporated at the third position; incorporation is reduced 4-fold when the flanking sequence reaches 65 residues, and little is incorporated on M13 templates. The presence of the 56-kDa gene 4 helicase decreases the incorporation of GMP on long templates. We propose that pausing is required for the incorporation of less preferred nucleotides and that pausing is decreased by the ability of the primase to translocate 5′ to 3′ on templates having long 3′-flanking sequences.
Qualitative differences in the pyrimidine metabolism of Trypanosoma equiperdum and mammals as characterized by 6-azauracil and 6-azauridine.

Abstract The protozoan organism, Trypanosoma equiperdum , converts 6-azauracil, an analog of uracil, directly to the 5'-ribonucleotide, 6-azauridylic acid, by condensation of the free base with 1-pyrophosphorylribose 5-phosphate. Azauridylic acid, in turn, can be further phosphorylated to the di- and triphosphate derivatives. These reactions proceed, presumably, via the normal pathway used by the organism for incorporation of preformed uracil. Although the ribonucleoside, 6-azauridine, can readily enter viable trypanosomes, the organism appears to lack any significant capacity to phosphorylate this ribose-containing analog to azauridylic acid. Since the latter is a potent inhibitor of orotidylic acid decarboxylase, the capacity of trypanosomes to convert azauracil, and not azauridine, to this derivative appears to account for the far greater potency of azauracil in inhibiting the de novo -synthesis of pyrimidines by T . equiperdum and, thus, in suppressing the growth of this organism in mice. The extensive capacity of trypanosomes to convert azauracil to azauridylic acid by direct condensation of the free base with 1-pyrophosphorylribose 5-phosphate, together with the limited capacity of mammalian cells to convert azauracil by a totally different reaction sequence to the same ribonucleotide (via the intermediate formation of azauridine), affords both a qualitative and a. quantitative biochemical distinction between this protozoan and mammalian species.
Osteoma of long bone: an expanding spectrum of imaging findings

Osteoma of long bone is an extremely rare, benign bone-forming surface lesion with the largest published case series consisting of only 14 patients. The most important and often most difficult lesion to differentiate from osteoma of long bone radiographically is parosteal osteosarcoma, which is a rare, low-grade surface osteosarcoma with the potential for dedifferentiation. Reports of imaging studies of osteoma of long bone depict a well-defined ossified mass arising from the surface of the diaphysis or metadiaphysis of a long bone. A characteristic feature is the homogeneity of the mass, with uniform density near or equal to that of cortical bone from the base of the lesion to its periphery. The 45-year-old female in this case presented with left hip fullness and was subsequently found to have a proximal femoral osteoma, which was unique in that it contained large fatty marrow spaces that corresponded to bands of relatively low density on plain radiography and computed tomography, giving it a heterogeneous appearance atypical of osteoma of long bone. Furthermore, the osteoma reported here was associated with a small but separate nodular focus of ossification in the adjacent soft tissue. These findings led to a presumptive diagnosis of parosteal osteosarcoma with a local soft tissue metastasis or satellite nodule resulting in radical resection of the tumor. Definitive diagnosis of osteoma was made on histology of both the parent lesion and ossified nodule as no neoplastic spindle cell proliferation was present to establish a diagnosis of low-grade osteosarcoma. This represents, to the best of our knowledge, the first such presentation of osteoma of long bone.
Interaction of odour and flow perception and the effects of parathion in the locomotor orientation of the goldfish Carassius auratus L.

The effects were studied of a 24 h exposure to a subacute concentration of parathion (0.33 p.p.m., which is approximately equivalent to 0.5 of the 48-h LC50) on the locomotor orientation of mature goldfish Carassius auratus L., 26–30 cm long, in response to a food odour and a water flow differential, singly and in combination, in a free choice situation. Prior to exposure, food odour alone was significantly attractive but the combination ‘food odour with increased water flow’, as compared with the control situation, was avoided. Factorial analysis demonstrated interaction between odour and increased flow. After exposure to parathion the food odour ceased to be attractive and was significantly avoided. This avoidance was not present in the ‘food odour-increased flow’ combination. The parathion exposure did not affect the response to the flow conditions per se but reversed the interaction between food odour and increased flow. In addition, the exposure to the pesticide itself, in a second order interaction, interacted with ‘food odour-flow’ response. Hence, the short term exposure to the subacute organophosphate concentration affected not only the perception of food odour and flow individually, but also the interaction between these common environmental stimuli.
Variation in Charges for Emergency Department Visits Across California

Study objective Previous studies have shown that charges for inpatient and clinic procedures vary substantially; however, there are scant data on variation in charges for emergency department (ED) visits. Outpatient ED visits are typically billed with current procedural terminology-coded levels to standardize the intensity of services received, providing an ideal element on which to evaluate charge variation. Thus, we seek to analyze the variation in charges for each level of ED visits and examine whether hospital- and market-level factors could help predict these charges. Methods Using 2011 charge data provided by every nonfederal California hospital to the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development, we analyzed the variability in charges for each level of ED visits and used linear regression to assess whether hospital and market characteristics could explain the variation in charges. Results Charges for each ED visit level varied widely; for example, charges for a level 4 visit ranged from $275 to $6,662. Government hospitals charged significantly less than nonprofit hospitals, whereas hospitals that paid higher wages, served higher proportions of Medicare and Medicaid patients, and were located in areas with high costs of living charged more. Overall, our models explained only 30% to 41% of the between-hospital variation in charges for each level of ED visits. Conclusion Our findings of extensive charge variation in ED visits add to the literature in demonstrating the lack of systematic charge setting in the US health care system. These widely varying charges affect the hospital bills of millions of uninsured patients and insured patients seeking care out of network and continue to play a role in many aspects of health care financing.
Branin Tachykinins and the Regulation of Salt Intake

The regulation of salt intake is achieved through the coordination of behavioral and physiological responses. Brain neuropeptides, such as the tachykinins, play an important role in orchestrating both of these responses. Intraventricular injections of NK3 receptor agonists, such as senktide, are potent in suppressing salt intake. Experimental results show that intraventricular injections of senktide that suppress salt intake have no effect on the ingestion of other tastes, such as sucrose. The means by which senktide suppresses salt intake was investigated in a series of experiments. Taste reactivity and lick rate analyses suggest that the activation of NK3 receptors reduces salt intake by modulating the oral-stimulating property of salt taste.
Flexible and rapidly configurable femtosecond pulse generation in the mid-IR.

We demonstrate a new experimental approach for flexible femtosecond pulse generation in the mid-IR by use of difference-frequency generation from two tightly synchronized Ti:sapphire lasers. The resultant mid-IR pulse train can be easily tuned, with an adjustable repetition frequency up to 100 MHz, a pulse energy of ∼1.5×10-13 J, and an intensity noise similar to that of the Ti:sapphire. Rapid switching of the mid-IR wavelength and programmable amplitude modulation are achieved by precision setting of the time delay between two original pulses.
Dot blot chemiluminescence assay for studying food protein binding to small intestinal brush border membranes in vitro.

Abstract Interactions of food proteins with the apical membrane of small intestinal epithelial cells can influence enterocytic antigen handling. For studying these interactions in vitro, isolated brush border membrane vesicles are a widely accepted model. In order to improve measurement of food protein binding, we developed a sensitive dot blot chemiluminescence assay. This assay comprises immobilization of membrane vesicles on nitrocellulose, detection of bound biotinylated food proteins by a peroxidase-catalyzed chemiluminescence reaction, and densitometric quantitation of signal intensities. By using this assay, saturation of brush border membrane binding of food proteins (gliadin peptides, α-casein, β-lactoglobulin, ovalbumin) was demonstrated. Inhibition studies indicated components of specific membrane binding of gliadin peptides, α-casein and β-lactoglobulin, whereas aggregation tendency of ovalbumin interfered with inhibition experiments. Maximal binding intensities of gliadin peptides (22.2±1.2 densitometric units (d.u.)/μg membrane protein), α-casein (27.9±1.7 d.u./μg) and ovalbumin (21.3±1.6 d.u./μg) were comparable to sugar-specific lectin binding (range from 23.4 to 35.1 d.u./μg), in contrast to significantly less binding of β-lactoglobulin (6.8±0.6 d.u./μg). The dot blot chemiluminescence assay is appropriate for characterizing interactions between food proteins and brush border membranes. Its sensitivity makes investigation of pathological membrane alterations possible. Besides, it might be useful for any studies defining ligand–membrane interactions.
Isomerization reaction dynamics and equilibrium at the liquid-vapor interface of water. A molecular-dynamics study

The gauche-trans isomerization reaction of 1,2-dichloroethane at the liquid-vapor interface of water is studied using molecular-dynamics computer simulations. The solvent bulk and surface effects on the torsional potential of mean force and on barrier recrossing dynamics are computed. The isomerization reaction involves a large change in the electric dipole moment, and as a result the trans/gauche ratio is considerably affected by the transition from the bulk solvent to the surface. Reactive flux correlation function calculations of the reaction rate reveal that deviation from the transition-state theory due to barrier recrossing is greater at the surface than in the bulk water. This suggests that the system exhibits non-Rice-Ramsperger-Kassel-Marcus behavior due to the weak solvent-solute coupling at the water liquid-vapor interface.
The management of a pelvic lymphocele by the use of a percutaneous indwelling catheter inserted with ultrasound guidance

Abstract The management of a pelvic lymphocele is initially expectant. Surgical intervention is not utilized until major problems occur. The first reported case of a postsurgical pelvic lymphcele managed by the use of a percutaneous indwelling catheter inserted and monitored with ultrasound guidance is presented. If this technique proves to be generally successful with more experience, intervention could be considered at an earlier point since a major surgical procedure is not involved.
Mental representations of spatial language

Previous studies have provided evidence of multi-level mental representations of language-conveyed spatial (scenic) information. However, the available evidence is largely inconclusive with regard to the structure of these mental representations. A laboratory experiment assesses computer-assisted problem-solving performance abilities when language-conveyed representations of spatial information are matched with the language perspective of the task and with individual cognitive skills. Our findings largely validate this paradigm of “cognitive fit” that has been applied in non-language computer display domains, and the results suggest language-fostered “perspective-bias” in the formation and use of mental representations of spatial (scenic) information.
Lysosomal enzyme inactivation associated with defects in post-translational modification during development in Dictyostelium discoideum.

Abstract The developmental accumulation of lysosomal α- mannosidase-1 activity in Dictyostelium discoideum is controlled at the level of de novo enzyme precursor biosynthesis. Aggregation-deficient mutants are defective with regard to the accumulation of α-mannosidase-1 activity beyond 8–16 h of development. We used enzyme-specific monoclonal antibodies to show that the activity defect in aggregation-deficient strains is not due to a lack of mannosidase-1-precursor synthesis or processing, or to preferential degradation of the mature enzyme protein. Instead, the defect is a result of enzyme inactivation: cells of aggregation deficient strains contain significant amounts of inactive α-mannosidase-1 protein late in development. The α-mannosidase-1 inactivation phenotype is associated with a more general defect in lysosomal enzyme modification. A change in the post-translational modification system occurs during normal slime-mold development, as shown by differences in enzyme isoelectric point, antigenicity, and thermolability. We found that this change in modification does not occur in mutant strains blocked early in development. We propose a model in which pleiotropic mutations in early aggregation-essential genes can indirectly affect the accumulation of a-mannosidase-1 activity by preventing the expression of a developmentally controlled change in the post-translational modification system, a change which is required for the stability of several lysosomal enzymes late in development.
Silent nucleotide substitutions and G+C content of some mitochondrial and bacterial genes

The G+C content of DNA varies widely in different organisms, especially microorganisms. This variation is accompanied by changes in the nucleotide composition of silent positions in codons. (Silent positions are defined and explained in the text.) These changes are mostly neutral or near neutral, and appear to result from mutation pressure in the direction of increasing either A+T (AT pressure) or G+C(GC pressure) content. Variations in G+C content are also accompanied by substitutions at replacement positions in codons. These substituions produce changes in the amino acid content of homologous proteins. The examples studied were genes for 13 mitochondrial proteins in five species, and A and B genes for bacterial tryptophan synthase in four species.
Radiology of pulmonary Mycobacterium avium- intracellulare complex

Although the radiographic appearance of pulmonary MAC infection in the immunocompetent host can be varied, there are several generalizations that can be made. The classic radiographic appearance is indistinguishable from that of pulmonary tuberculosis. The classic form is seen most commonly in males and is typically associated with other predisposing diseases, especially chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Most patients have upper lobe disease with associated pleural thickening. Widespread disease is common, as is cavitation. Pleural effusions and adenopathy are uncommon. The Lady Windermere syndrome is a special form of pulmonary MAC seen primarily in middle-aged and elderly women. The radiographic findings are bronchiectasis and small nodules, predominately located within the middle lobe and lingula. The combination of bronchiectasis involving exclusively, or primarily, the right middle lobe and lingula is highly suggestive of pulmonary MAC, even in the face of negative sputum cultures. Pulmonary infection with MAC in the immunocompromised patient generally reflects a widespread systemic disease. As such, the radiographic appearance is highly variable. Diffuse pulmonary opacities and adenopathy are common features. Plain radiographs are frequently normal despite active pulmonary infection. Regardless of the clinical situation, pulmonary MAC infection is often omitted from the radiographic differential even when the appearance is characteristic. In general, when pulmonary abnormalities are identified that are consistent with a granulomatous infection, pulmonary MAC needs to be considered along with tuberculosis and fungal infection. Especially with pulmonary MAC, radiographic stability over several years does not exclude active disease. The radiographic appearance may be suggestive of the diagnosis of pulmonary MAC, but correlation with the clinical and microbiological data is necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
Structure of the floating water bridge and water in an electric field.

The floating water bridge phenomenon is a freestanding rope-shaped connection of pure liquid water, formed under the influence of a high potential difference (approximately 15 kV). Several recent spectroscopic, optical, and neutron scattering studies have suggested that the origin of the bridge is associated with the formation of anisotropic chains of water molecules in the liquid. In this work, high energy X-ray diffraction experiments have been performed on a series of floating water bridges as a function of applied voltage, bridge length, and position within the bridge. The two-dimensional X-ray scattering data showed no direction-dependence, indicating that the bulk water molecules do not exhibit any significant preferred orientation along the electric field. The only structural changes observed were those due to heating, and these effects were found to be the same as for bulk water. These X-ray scattering measurements are supported by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations which were performed under electric fields of 106 V/m and 109 V/m. Directional structure factor calculations were made from these simulations parallel and perpendicular to the E-field. The 106 V/m model showed no significant directional-dependence (anisotropy) in the structure factors. The 109 V/m model however, contained molecules aligned by the E-field, and had significant structural anisotropy.
100 EVALUATION OF PATIENTS WITH THALASSEMIA BY ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY

Echocardiographic studies in 44 subjects with thalassemia major(Thal) aged 5-27 years with body surface area(BSA) 0.8-1.9M2 were compared to 54 normals(N) of similar age and BSA. Hemoglobin of the Thals was maintained by transfusion at 11.4 gms.% ± 3.2 S.D. Of 39 Thals(Group 1) studied prior to Desferrioxamine therapy only 1 was on therapy for heart failure. Five patients (Group 11) aged 9-15 years were studied to assess left ventricular(LV) function because of recent onset of failure. In comparison to normal data 95% confidence limits, Group 1 subjects had increased LV end diastolic dimension(LVD) in 23/39(59%) and increased left atrial dimension(LAD) in 21/39(54%); LV wall thickness was above the mean normal values in 33/39(85%) patients. In Group 11, normal data 95% confidence limits were exceeded in 4/5 for LVD and 5/5 for LAD. Remarkably good LV function was found in Group 1 subjects, including 9 over 20 and 22 over 15 years of age. However, once heart failure was apparent(Group 11), LV function was markedly reduced and despite treatment for failure progression to death occurred within 1-11 months.
Near Identity of Cognitive Structure in Two Ethnic Groups

As part of a large-scale family study in Hawaii, Americans of either Japanese or European ancestry were administered a battery of 15 cognitive tests. Principal component analyses (varimax rotations) yielded the same four major cognitive factors for each of the two ethnic groups, and these factors are defined by strikingly similar factor loadings.
The chemokine receptor CCR7 expressed by dendritic cells: A key player in corneal and ocular surface inflammation

Dendritic cells (DCs) are highly potent stimulators of the immune system, and their contribution as such to the pathogenesis of corneal and ocular surface inflammatory disease has been well established. These vigorous antigen-presenting cells are reliant upon their effective migration from peripheral tissues (e.g., those of the ocular surface) to the lymphoid organs, where immune responses are triggered and can then cause disease. The chemokine receptor CCR7 expressed on DCs has emerged as the master mediator of this highly complex migratory process, and thus it is important in causing corneal and ocular surface inflammation. Furthermore, CCR7 has received considerable attention as a potential therapeutic target, as topically instilled antagonists of this receptor are quite effective therapeutically in a mouse model of ocular allergy. These findings and more are reviewed in the current article. In addition, the understanding regarding CCR7 function in mice and humans, and the biology of DCs that populate the ocular surface are also detailed herein. The involvement of DCs and their expression of CCR7 in corneal and ocular surface diseases such as in ocular allergy, dry eye disease, immune rejection and more, are also reviewed here.
Excess enthalpies for (propane + methanol) at the temperatures (298.15, 323.15, 348.15, and 373.15) K and pressures (5, 10, and 15) MPa, and at 363.15K and (5 and 15) MPa

Excess molar enthalpies HEm for (propane + methanol) have been determined at the temperatures (298.15, 323.15, 348.15, and 373.15) K and at the pressures (5, 10, and 15) MPa. Measurements were also made at 363.15 K and (5 and 15) MPa. (Propane + methanol) is a type-II mixture (Scott and van Konynenburg's classification) with a (liquid + liquid) phase separation at lower temperatures. The measurements reported in this paper were performed at temperatures and pressures at which both components were liquids and where phase separation does not occur.
Postoperative bile duct strictures: management and outcome in the 1990s.

Objective To describe the management and outcome after surgical reconstruction of 156 patients with postoperative bile duct strictures managed in the 1990s. Summary Background Data The management of postoperative bile duct strictures and major bile duct injuries remains a challenge for even the most skilled biliary tract surgeon. The 1990s saw a dramatic increase in the incidence of bile duct strictures and injuries from the introduction and widespread use of laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Although the management of these injuries and short-term outcome have been reported, long-term follow-up is limited. Methods Data were collected prospectively on 156 patients treated at the Johns Hopkins Hospital with major bile duct injuries or postoperative bile duct strictures between January 1990 and December 1999. With the exception of bile duct injuries discovered and repaired during surgery, all patients underwent preoperative percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography and placement of transhepatic biliary catheters before surgical repair. Follow-up was conducted by medical record review or telephone interview during January 2000. Results Of the 156 patients undergoing surgical reconstruction, 142 had completed treatment with a mean follow-up of 57.5 months. Two patients died of reasons unrelated to biliary tract disease before the completion of treatment. Twelve patients (7.9%) had not completed treatment and still had biliary stents in place at the time of this report. Of patients who had completed treatment, 90.8% were considered to have a successful outcome without the need for follow-up invasive, diagnostic, or therapeutic interventional procedures. Patients with reconstruction after injury or stricture after laparoscopic cholecystectomy had a better overall outcome than patients whose postoperative stricture developed after other types of surgery. Presenting symptoms, number of stents, interval to referral, prior repair, and length of postoperative stenting were not significant predictors of outcome. Overall, a successful outcome, without the need for biliary stents, was obtained in 98% of patients, including those requiring a secondary procedure for recurrent stricture. Conclusions Major bile duct injuries and postoperative bile duct strictures remain a considerable surgical challenge. Management with preoperative cholangiography to delineate the anatomy and placement of percutaneous biliary catheters, followed by surgical reconstruction with a Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy, is associated with a successful outcome in up to 98% of patients.
Bandwagon Effects in High Technology Industries

The article reviews the book “Bandwagon Effects in High-Technology Industries,” by Jeffrey H. Rohlfs.
On-chip magnetic separation and encapsulation of cells in droplets

Single cell study is gaining importance because of the cell-to-cell variation that exists within cell population, even after significant initial sorting. Analysis of such variation at the gene expression level could impact single cell functional genomics, cancer, stem-cell research, and drug screening. The on-chip monitoring of individual cells in an isolated environment would prevent cross-contamination, provide high recovery yield, and enable study of biological traits at a single cell level. These advantages of on-chip biological experiments is a significant improvement for a myriad of cell analyses methods, compared to conventional methods, which require bulk samples and provide only averaged information on cell structure and function. We report on a device that integrates a mobile magnetic trap array with microfluidic technology to provide the possibility of separation of immunomagnetically labeled cells and their encapsulation with reagents into picoliter droplets for single cell analysis. The simultaneous reagent delivery and compartmentalization of the cells immediately following sorting are all performed seamlessly within the same chip. These steps offer unique advantages such as the ability to capture cell traits as originated from its native environment, reduced chance of contamination, minimal use of the reagents, and tunable encapsulation characteristics independent of the input flow. Preliminary assay on cell viability demonstrates the potential for the device to be integrated with other up- or downstream on-chip modules to become a powerful single-cell analysis tool.