cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Blood—Brain Barrier Genomics

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is formed by the brain microvascular endothelium, and the unique transport properties of the BBB are derived from tissue-specific gene expression within this cell. The current studies developed a gene microarray approach specific for the BBB by purifying the initial mRNA from isolated rat brain capillaries to generate tester cDNA. A polymerase chain reaction-based subtraction cloning method, suppression subtractive hybridization (SSH), was used, and the BBB cDNA was subtracted with driver cDNA produced from mRNA isolated from rat liver and kidney. Screening 5% of the subtracted tester cDNA resulted in identification of 50 gene products and more than 80% of those were selectively expressed at the BBB; these included novel gene sequences not found in existing databases, ESTs, and known genes that were not known to be selectively expressed at the BBB. Genes in the latter category include tissue plasminogen activator, insulin-like growth factor-2, PC-3 gene product, myelin basic protein, regulator of G protein signaling 5, utrophin, IkappaB, connexin-45, the class I major histocompatibility complex, the rat homologue of the transcription factors hbrm or EZH1, and organic anion transporting polypeptide type 2. Knowledge of tissue-specific gene expression at the BBB could lead to new targets for brain drug delivery and could elucidate mechanisms of brain pathology at the microvascular level.
DNA Looping Induced by Tubular Confinement

DNA looping is essential for the function and maintenance of genetic information. At short lengths the cyclization rate is limited by the semiflexible properties of DNA, while at long distances it is limited by the rapidly declining probability of colocation of the anchoring sequences of the loop. We propose that a facilitated diffusion process increases the rate of cyclization for large loops. The maze-like nuclear environment then becomes a major impediment for the required colocation.We have investigated the kinetic evolution of DNA loops (48500 bp) induced by T4 ligase inside a nanofabricated channel system with a channel cross-section of 100x100 nm2, and a few micron channel length. We found that addition of the ligase profoundly alters the behavior of DNA. In particular, ligase acts to stabilize hairpin geometries in which the extended forward and backward arms of the hairpin scan past each other. From the linear density of DNA inside the channel, we deduce that the effective excluded volume vanishes upon addition of T4 ligase and ATP.We conclude that the two strands are effectively stapled together through a large number of weak bonds involving T4 ligase. The absence of a similarly strong transformation of DNA in free solution points towards the necessity of parallel pre-alignment through the nanotube. We point to the fact that the formation of hairpins and the 1-d scanning of strands past each other solves the kinetic problem of forming a loop in a maze-like environment.
A simplified formula for quantification of the probability of deterministic assignments in permuted block randomization.

Abstract Open label and single blinded randomized controlled clinical trials are vulnerable to selection bias when the next treatment assignment is predictable based on the randomization algorithm and the preceding assignment history. While treatment predictability is an issue for all constrained randomization algorithms, deterministic assignments are unique to permuted block randomization. Deterministic assignments may lead to treatment predictability with certainty and selection bias, which could inflate the type I error and hurts the validity of trial results. It is important to accurately evaluate the probability of deterministic assignments in permuted block randomization, so proper protection measures can be implemented. For trials with number of treatment arms T =2 and a balance block size B =2 m , Matts and Lachin indicated that the probability of deterministic assignment is 1/( m +1). For more general situations, with T ≥2 and a block size B = ∑ j = 1 T m j , Dupin-Spriet provided a formula, which can be written as ( 1 / B ) ∑ j = 1 T ∑ i = 1 m j ∏ k = 1 i ( m j − k + 1 ) / ( B − k + 1 ) . This formula involves extensive calculation in evaluation. In this paper, we simplified this formula to ( 1 / B ) ∑ j = 1 T m j / ( B − m j + 1 ) for general scenarios and 1/( B − m +1) for trials with a balanced allocation. Through mathematical induction we show the equivalence of the formulas. While the new formula is numerically equivalent to Dupin-Spriet’s formula, the simple format not only is easier for evaluation, but also is clearer in describing the impact of parameters T and m i on the probability of deterministic assignments.
Transplantation of a cadaveric polycystic kidney in a patient with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease: long-term outcome.

Introduction: Kidneys from donors affected by autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) were considered unusable for transplantation. To the best of our knowledge, seven cases worldwide have now been described in the English literature since 1967 suggesting such donor organs may be acceptable under certain conditions. Most of these reports have only short-term follow-up. Methods: We provide a review of these patients and share our experience with an ADPKD patient who had a cadaveric ADPKD transplant and has been closely followed for 10 years. Results: During the 10-year period, the patient had three transplant biopsies without complication. This creatinine is currently 1.2 mg/dL. Serial computed tomography imaging indicated that the cystic disease slowly progressed during this time period. He eventually developed intractable pain in his native left kidney and underwent a laparoscopic nephrectomy. Conclusions: Normal functioning cadaveric kidneys that show early signs of polycystic kidney disease should be considered acceptable for renal donation. These organs provide the recipient a safe, reasonable period of graft survival and have not been shown to cause adverse effects.
Differential effects of prostaglandins on the antitumor activity of normal and BCG-activated macrophages.

Abstract The effect of exogeneously added prostaglandins E 1 , E 2 , and F 2α , on the capacity of normal and BCG-activated mouse peritoneal macrophages to destroy tumor cells, inhibit tumor cell proliferation, and phagocytize sheep red blood cells (SRBC) was assessed. BCG-activated macrophages destroyed the B16 melanoma cells as assessed by the release of tritiated thymidine ([ 3 H]TdR). The addition of prostaglandins did not effect the tumoricidal activity of the macrophage. BCG-activated macrophages also inhibited the tumor cells from incorporating [ 3 H]TdR while normal macrophages had no effect. The addition of prostaglandins to BCG-activated macrophages reduced their cytostatic effect on the tumor cells. In contrast, the growth inhibitory capacity of the normal macrophage was enhanced in the presence of prostaglandins. The effect of various pharmacological agents on the ability of the BCG-activated macrophage to reduce tumor cell growth was assessed. Indomethacin potentiated the prostaglandin-mediated reduction in tumoristatic activity. Dibutyryl cyclic AMP did not effect the antitumor activity of the macrophage. Prostaglandins of the E series and dibutyryl cyclic AMP inhibited the phagocytosis of SRBC by BCG-activated macrophages. The opposing effects of prostaglandins on the tumoristatic activity of the BCG-activated and normal macrophage suggests that prostaglandins may play a role in regulating macrophage function based on their level of activation.
Negative affect as a mediator of the relationship between vigorous-intensity exercise and smoking

The present cross-sectional study evaluated whether people who engage in vigorous-intensity exercise are better able to regulate negative affective states, thereby changing core maintenance factors of smoking. Participants were a community sample of adults (n = 270) who completed self-report measures of physical activity, cigarette smoking, anxiety sensitivity, and negative affect. Consistent with hypothesis, vigorous-intensity exercise was related to lower levels of cigarette smoking, accounting for 10% of the variance in smoking. Additionally, negative affect mediated the relationship between vigorous-intensity physical activity and cigarette smoking, accounting for about 12% of this relation. Furthermore, these relationships were stronger for individuals with high anxiety sensitivity than for those with low anxiety sensitivity; including anxiety sensitivity as a moderator of the mediated relationship increased the amount of variance accounted for by negative affect to 17%. The findings are discussed in relation to developing further scientific insight into the mechanisms and pathways relevant to understanding the association among vigorous-intensity exercise, smoking, and emotional vulnerability.
Amino Acid Absorption in Portal Blood After Duodenal Infusions of a Soy Protein Hydrolysate Prepared by a Novel Soybean Protease D3

The intestinal absorption of amino acids from decapeptide was investigated in rats under unrestrained conditions. The soy protein hydrolysate utilized in the experiment was produced by a novel soybean protease D3. The enzymatic features of protease D3 showed high homology with cathepsin L and cathepsin K and the average molecular weight of D3 hydrolysate is approximately 1200. We compared the intestinal absorption of D3 hydrolysate in portal blood with that of an amino acids mixture and soy protein with the same amino acid composition by determining the concentration of individual amino acids after a single administration of a nitrogen source. The absorptive velocity and intensity of each amino acid were calculated from its rate of elevation in the portal blood. And in most cases, these were higher in the D3 hydrolysate than in amino acids mixture and protein. The proportion of the amount of each amino acid absorbed in portal blood from D3 hydrolysate was much more like the composition of the administrated amino acids than like that from the amino acids mixture. The result of in vitro digestion assay indicated that D3 hydrolysate was hydrolyzed easier than the hydrolysates produced by microbial proteases. This is the first report to demonstrate that the D3 hydrolysate, which contains decapeptide as a dominant fraction, was more rapidly utilized than the amino acids mixture and protein as is the case with di-, tripeptides. This suggested that this hydrolysate could be available for nutraceutical use as well as use in nutritious foods for athletes and patients.
Algorithm 660: QSHEP2D: Quadratic Shepard Method for Bivariate Interpolation of Scattered Data

We describe a new algorithm for scattered data interpolation. The method is similar to that of Algorithm 660 but achieves cubic precision and C2 continuity at very little additional cost. An accompanying article presents test results that show the method to be among the most accurate available.
Upper critical fields and reduced dimensionality of the superconducting layered compounds

A detailed study of the critical magnetic fields of the superconducting layered compounds is reported and used to investigate the quasi-two-dimensional nature of these superconductors. The compounds studied include Ta${\mathrm{S}}_{2}$ and Ta${\mathrm{S}}_{1.6}$${\mathrm{Se}}_{0.4}$ intercalated with collidine, pyridine, or aniline and the unintercalated compounds Ta${\mathrm{S}}_{1.6}$${\mathrm{Se}}_{0.4}$ and Nb${\mathrm{Se}}_{2}$. The parallel critical fields of the intercalated compounds are found to be extremely high, rising faster with decreasing temperature (up to 200 kOe/K in the case of the Ta${\mathrm{S}}_{1.6}$${\mathrm{Se}}_{0.4}$ intercalation complexes) than for any other known superconductor. Ginzburg-Landau coherence lengths derived from the data indicate that the intercalated compounds should behave two dimensionally at low temperatures. It is found that the critical-field behavior is in qualitative agreement with the theoretical predictions of Klemm, Beasley, and Luther, based on the model of layered compounds as two-dimensional superconducting layers weakly coupled via Josephson tunneling. However, not all features of the data can be explained by this model. In addition, it is found that the observed critical fields are too high to be consistent with the conventional theory of Pauli paramagnetic limiting of the critical fields in superconductors.
A translation/rotation invariant neural network trained via conjugate gradient optimization

A neural network (NN) model which possesses the properties of invariance to both left-right/up-down image translation and integer multiples of 90 degrees image rotation is computer simulated. This invariance network comprises two distinct subnetworks, the preprocessor and the adaptive descrambler, which are themselves NNs. Although the overall structure of the network mimics that of the MADALINE invariance NN of B. Widrow (1987), the operation of the two networks is different. Sigmoidal nonlinearities (versus hardlimiting nonlinearities in the Widrow model) are used for the neurons in this model. Consequently, a conventional conjugate gradient optimization routine can be utilized to train the weights in the network on standard (normal reading position and centered in the field of view) input images. Once trained on the standard images only, the network is also capable of recognizing as the same image one with left-right/up-down translation or integer multiples of 90 degrees rotation. Successful simulation results are achieved for both bipolar and gray-level input images. >
Anomalous meridional thermospheric neutral winds in the AE-E NATE data: Effects of the equatorial nighttime pressure bulge

The work described here makes it possible to identify anomalous wind behavior such as the nighttime meridional wind abatements that occur at F-region heights. A new analysis technique uses a simple empirical wind model to simulate measurements of 'normal' winds (as measured by the Neutral Atmosphere and Temperature Experiment (NATE) that flew on the Atmosphere Explorer-E (AE-E)) to highlight anomalous wind measurements made by the satellite while in circular orbits at 270-290 km altitude. Our approach is based on the recognition that the 'in orbit' wind variation must show the combined effects of the diurnal wind variation as seen from the ground with the latitude variation of the satellite orbit. For the data period 77250-78035 examined thus far, the wind abatement always occurred with a corresponding pressure or temperature maximum, and was detected on 12 out of the 36 nights with data. This study has revealed that the wind abatement occur only during or shortly after increases in solar extreme ultraviolet (EUV) flux, as indicated by daily radio flux measurements. In the past, nighttime wind reversals at mid-latitudes have been associated with increased geomagnetic activity. This study indicates that intensified solar EUV heating may be responsible for anomalous thermospheric nighttime winds at mid-latitudes.
Duplication of machines and subcontracting of parts in the presence of alternative cell locations

Abstract In this paper a polynomial programming model is presented to deal with the processes of machine duplication and part subcontracting in the presence of alternative cell locations and maximum number of machines that can be assigned to a cell. As the model formulated for the problem can be proven strongly NP-hard, a tabu search-based heuristic solution algorithm is presented for solving problems that have industrial merit. A simple example is solved to demonstrate the applicability of the algorithm at two different budgetary levels. The example further demonstrates that alternative cell locations indeed have a significant impact in dealing with the processes of machine duplication and part subcontracting in cellular manufacturing systems.
Specific interaction of terminase, the DNA packaging enzyme of bacteriophage lambda, with the portal protein of the prohead.

Abstract Terminase, the bacteriophage γ DNA packaging protein, is a heteromultimer of two subunits, gpNu1 and gpA, the products of genesNu1andA, resp. Phage 21 is a lambdoid phage that produces a terminase similar to that of γ terminase, the subunits of 21 terminase, gp1 and gp2, have the same domain stuctures of their γ analog, gpNu1 and gpA, respectively. The γ and 21 terminases have different DNA binding and prohead binding specificities. When the C-terminal 32 amino residues of gpA replace the C-terminal 32 residues of gp2, the resulting chimeric terminase specifically uses γ proheads, indicating that the C-terminal 32 residues of gpA are a specficity domain for prohead binding. A second chimeric terminase, in which the C-terminal six residues of gpA are replaced by the C-terminal six residues of gp2, is unable to ultilize γ proheads, and a γ phage producing this terminase, γAre36, is unable to form plaques. In the present work, a pseudorevertant of γre636 was isolated that contained a mutationBms8, affecting the prohead. TheBgene encodes the portal protein of γ proheads, which forms the special vertex that is thought to serve as (1) the site of DNA entry into the prohead during packing, (2) the site for DNA exit during DNA injection, and (3) the site of tail attachment during virion assemblyBmn8 is predicted to change residue 331 of gpB from proline to serine. Burst size measurements andin vitroDNA packaging experiments demonstrated allele-specific interactions between theAre636 terminase andBms8 proheads. That is wild-type terminase interacted more efficiently with wild-type proheads than withBms8 proheads, andAre636 terminase interacted withBms8 proheads more efficiently than with wild-type proheads. Prohead binding by γ terminase is stimulated by an assembly catalyst, ghFI.In vitropacking extracts lacking gpFI were used under conditions in which packaging was gpFI-independent. In the absence of gdFI,Are636 terminae interacted most efficiently withBms8 proheads, and wild-type terminase interacted most efficiently with wild-type proheads. The allele-specific interactions in the absence of gpFI indicate that theAre636 andBms8 mutations affect direct interactions between terminase and the portal protein, rather than acting indirectly by altering the interactions of terminase and gpB and gpFI.
Cleavage of cell surface proteins by thrombin

This study was based on our previous findings that the mitogenic action of thrombin on cultured fibroblasts can result from interaction of thrombin with the cell surface in the absence of internalization, and that the proteolytic activity of thrombin is required for stimulation of cell division. This prompted us to look for thrombin-mediated cleavages using 2-dimensional gel electrophoresis of labeled cell surface proteins. Surface membrane components were labeled by 3 procedures: 1) proteins were labeled by lactoperoxidase-catalyzed iodination using 125I-; 2) galactose and galactosamine residues of glycoproteins were oxidized with galactose oxidase and reduced with 3H-NaBH4; and 3) glycoproteins were metabolically labeled by incubating cells with 3H-fucose. labeling with the first 2 procedures was carried out after thrombin treatment; in contrast, cells metabolically labeled with 3H-fucose were subsequently treated with thrombin to look for proteolytic cleavages. Collectively, these studies indicated that only about 5 cell surface proteins were thrombin-sensitive, consistent with the high specificity of this protease. Each of the labeling procedures revealed a thrombin-sensitive cell surface glycoprotein which was identified as fibronectin by immunoprecipitation experiments. In addition, cell surface proteins of about 140K and 55K daltons were thrombin-sensitive. However, cell surface proteins of about 45K daltons and 130K to 150K daltons were increased after thrombin treatment. These experiments were conducted on an established line of Chinese hamster lung cells with the eventual goal of studying thrombin-mediated cleavages of cell surface proteins in a large number or in cloned populations derived from this line that are either responsive or unresponsive to the mitogenic action of thrombin. This approach should permit identification of proteolytic cleavages tha are necessary for thrombin-stimulated cell division.
Calcium Channel α2δ1 Proteins Mediate Trigeminal Neuropathic Pain States Associated with Aberrant Excitatory Synaptogenesis

To investigate a potential mechanism underlying trigeminal nerve injury-induced orofacial hypersensitivity, we used a rat model of chronic constriction injury to the infraorbital nerve (CCI-ION) to study whether CCI-ION caused calcium channel α2δ1 (Cavα2δ1) protein dysregulation in trigeminal ganglia and associated spinal subnucleus caudalis and C1/C2 cervical dorsal spinal cord (Vc/C2). Furthermore, we studied whether this neuroplasticity contributed to spinal neuron sensitization and neuropathic pain states. CCI-ION caused orofacial hypersensitivity that correlated with Cavα2δ1 up-regulation in trigeminal ganglion neurons and Vc/C2. Blocking Cavα2δ1 with gabapentin, a ligand for the Cavα2δ1 proteins, or Cavα2δ1 antisense oligodeoxynucleotides led to a reversal of orofacial hypersensitivity, supporting an important role of Cavα2δ1 in orofacial pain processing. Importantly, increased Cavα2δ1 in Vc/C2 superficial dorsal horn was associated with increased excitatory synaptogenesis and increased frequency, but not the amplitude, of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents in dorsal horn neurons that could be blocked by gabapentin. Thus, CCI-ION-induced Cavα2δ1 up-regulation may contribute to orofacial neuropathic pain states through abnormal excitatory synapse formation and enhanced presynaptic excitatory neurotransmitter release in Vc/C2.
Myelin-binding antibodies in vitro. Immunoperoxidase studies with experimental allergic encephalomyelitis, anti-galactocerebroside and multiple sclerosis sera

Abstract To determine whether in vitro demyelinating activity of blood sera correlates with the presence of myelin-binding immunoglobulin, we studied sera from 7 rabbits with allergic encephalomyelitis induced with white matter homogenate (EAE), two with encephalomyelitis induced with myelin basic protein (MBP-EAE), two sensitized with galactocerebroside, and from 4 patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Living, myelinated, organotypic cultures of fetal mouse spinal cord were incubated with serum, fixed, treated with peroxidase-conjugated anti-rabbit or anti-human immunoglobulins, and incubated with diaminobenzidine. Immuno-stained myelin, coursing across the cultures, was found with EAE and anti-galactocerebroside sera, and these sera had strong demyelinating activity. In addition, anti-galactocerebroside serum sometimes immuno-stained cell membrane of cells with elaborate branching processes, possibly oligodendrocytes. No immuno-stained myelin was found with MBP-EAE, MS or control sera. Of these, only MS serum had demyelinating activity. These results indicate that the demyelinating activity of animal sera is associated with a myelin-binding immunoglobulin, which in the presence of complement probably mediates demyelination. On the other hand, the demyelinating activity of MS serum does not appear to be associated with a myelin-binding immunoglobulin. Thus there are differences between the demyelinating activities of MS and EAE sera.
Reconsidering Whately's Folly: An emotive treatment of presumption

This essay employs the metagthical theory of emotivism to critique existing theories of presumption, arguing that traditional views have confused the term's emotive force with the criteria for assigning argumentative burdens in any given case.
Conformational analysis and structural determinations from ab initio calculations for vinyl silyl chloride

The structural parameters for both the cis and gauche rotamers of vinyl silyi chloride, CH2CH-SiH2Cl, were calculated using ab initio Hartree-Fock gradient calculations employing the 3-21G∗ and 6-31G∗ basis sets. These results are compared with the r0 values obtained experimentally from previously reported microwave data. Potential-surface calculations were carried out to determine the barriers to internal rotation and the conformational stability of the two retainers. At the 6-31G∗ basis-set level the cis to gauche and gauche to gauche barriers are 442 cm−1 (1.26 kcal mol−1) and 689 cm−1 (1.97 kcal mol−1), respectively, with the gauche conformer more stable than the cis form by 225 cm−1 (643 cal mol−1). The results are compared with the corresponding data for some similar molecules.
Systematic investigation of picosecond photoinduced absorption in hydrogenated amorphous silicon.

A systematic study of the dependence of picosecond photoinduced absorption (PA) and transmission in hydrogenated amorphous silicon on sample thickness, doping concentration, and excitation intensity has been undertaken. Investigations demonstrated that the picosecond PA decays are not caused by recombination at the sample surface nor by deep trapping. The decays are consistent with thermalization within the band tails and doping-induced band-tail states.
Saturation molalities and standard molar enthalpies of solution of α-d-xylose(cr) in H2O(l); standard molar enthalpies of solution of 1,4-β-d-xylobiose(am), and 1,4-β-d-xylotriose(am) in H2O(l)

Abstract The saturation molality of α- d -xylose(cr) in water was measured by using HPLC and is m(sat) = (8.43 ± 0.42) mol · kg−1 at T = 298.15 K. It was also established that the anhydrous form of α- d -xylose(cr) is the crystalline form that is in equilibrium with the aqueous solution at T = 298.15 K. Solution calorimetry was used to measure the following standard molar enthalpies of solution at T = 298.15 K: Δ sol H m ∘ = (12.10 ± 0.12) kJ · mol−1 for α- d -xylose(cr); Δ sol H m ∘ = −(8.1 ± 2.7) kJ · mol−1 for 1,4-β- d -xylobiose(am); and Δ sol H m ∘ = −(24.1 ± 6.4) kJ · mol−1 for 1,4-β- d -xylotriose(am). It was observed that both 1,4-β- d -xylobiose(am) and 1,4-β- d -xylotriose(am) were amorphous substances and that they form thick gels in water in which no solid phase is present. Consequently, it is not possible to measure m(sat) for these two substances. All substances were carefully characterized by using both HPLC and Karl Fischer analysis. NMR was used to measure the anomeric purity of the α- d -xylose(cr). Thermodynamic network calculations were used to calculate standard molar formation properties for the aforementioned substances.
Indirect effects of irradiation: Morphogenetic effects of irradiated sucrose☆

Abstract Irradiated sucrose suppresses and even eliminates the growth induction of plant cells in culture, but it also exerts, at a lower concentration, a further stimulus to cell division. Analyses of large populations of embryos (Daucus carota and Sium suave) reared with and without irradiated sucrose in the culture medium showed that irradiated sucrose increased the frequency of abnormal growth forms, i.e., double or twin fasciated embryos, highly multiple dactyloid shoots, embryos with abnormally reduced shoots, and double radicles in varying degrees of fusion. The earlier the irradiated sucrose was applied during the course of development, the more frequent and extreme were the abnormalities. The irradiated sucrose acts by causing certain cells to divide and to function as growth centers whereas they would normally have remained quiescent; it therefore disturbs the inherent “built-in” controls which normally regulate embryonic development. Therefore, over and above the other effects of irradiated sucrose, it induces definite morphogenetic effects on embryos as they develop from free cells.
Ten Mistakes To Avoid—How NOT To Write A Successful Manuscript

As Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography (JASE), I have read a lot of manuscripts over the past year, studied expert advice from many dedicated peer reviewers, and discussed both the manuscripts and the reviewers’ comments with my associate editors, from whom I learn much every week. This experience has confirmed my conviction that writing a successful manuscript requires a great deal of thought, preparation, and attention to detail. Of course, there are many ways to write a successful manuscript. It turns out that there are also a number of pitfalls that prospective authors would be wise to avoid. In this editor’s page, I would like to clarify what not to do (and why) in hopes that this will help prospective authors to be even more successful in the future. While authors must recognize that receiving an occasional rejection letter comes with the territory, nobody likes to be rejected. Unlike Top Ten lists that are often presented by comedians, the following list is not necessarily in order of either humor or importance. In my view, each of these points deserves some consideration. With that introduction, let’s review TenMistakes to Avoid in preparing a manuscript.
Fatal degeneration of the silicone rubber ball of the Starr-Edwards prosthetic aortic valve.

Abstract Fatal degeneration of silicone rubber balls of Starr-Edwards prosthetic aortic valves is described in 11 of 271 patients who underwent aortic valve replacement. Among 35 autopsy subjects, none of the 23 who died less than 24 months after operation had evidence of ball degeneration, whereas severe degeneration was present in 11 of 12 patients who died more than 24 months after operation. In 6 patients the ball had atrophied, fractured and become dislodged from the cage, and in 5 it had swollen and become impacted within the cage. Degeneration of the silicone rubber ball may be an inevitable late complication of replacement of the aortic valve with a Starr-Edwards prosthesis. Therefore, reoperation and replacement of these degenerated aortic balls will be necessary in many patients. The ideal time for reoperation, however, is not yet determined. Whether the use of a hollow metal ball will prevent this complication remains to be seen.
Selenium Speciation in Aqueous Solutions Using a Hydride Generation Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry Technique

Abstract A sensitive analytical technique for the determination of soluble selenium species [Se(IV), Se(VI), Se(0,-II), dimethyl selenide (DMSe), and oxidized methylated organo-Se compounds], using hydride generation atomic absorption spectrophotometry is described. Dimethyl selenide is purged out of a solution and trapped on a U-tube immersed in liquid N2. After controlled heating of the sample trap, DMSe is quantified in a quartz flame-in-tube atomizer aligned in the optical path of an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Selenite [Se(IV)] and oxidized methylated Se-compounds are reduced by NaBH4 in 4 M HCl to H2Se and DMSe, repectively. Entrained by a He carrier gas the H2Se and DMSe are trapped in a liquid N2 cooled U-tube. Their separation is accomplished by controlled heating of the sample trap. Hydrogen selenide and DMSe carried out of the trap into the atomization cell are detected as two distinct and sharp absorption signals. Oxidative and/or reductive chemical digestions are used to quantitative...
Development and Preliminary Validation of the Asthma Intensity Manifestations Score (AIMS) Derived from Asthma Control Test, FEV1, Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide, and Step Therapy Assessments

Objective. Inherent asthma severity is difficult to assess clinically. The purpose of this study was to develop an Asthma Intensity Manifestations Score (AIMS) as a surrogate for asthma severity. Methods. Three hundred and four patients treated with inhaled corticosteroids completed the Asthma Control Test (ACT), underwent spirometry, and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) testing, and reported their current medications. These parameters (defined as ACT 50 ppb, and Expert Panel Report [EPR3] step care level >3) were related to prior year outcomes to develop the AIMS and to follow-up year outcomes to validate it. Results. FENO was independently related to prior year short-acting beta agonist (SABA) ≥ 7 (odds ratio [OR] 2.9); ACT (OR 4.9), FEV1 (OR 3.3), and step care (OR 3.9) were independently related to prior year systemic corticosteroid (SCS) ≥ 2. Thus, all the four items were chosen for the AIMS (0–4 points). AIMSs were linea...
Carbon Dioxide and Oxygen-Nitrogen Ratios as Factors Affecting Salmon Survival in Air-Supersaturated Water

Abstract Juvenile sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) were exposed to lethal levels of air-supersaturated water (120 percent, 125 percent, 130 percent total gas saturation) containing different oxygen-nitrogen ratios and different carbon dioxide concentrations. Fish mortality was not significantly different at different carbon dioxide levels (1.7 to 22.0 mg/liter CO2) when tested at the same total gas saturation concentrations. Total gas saturation levels are much more important than the O2/N2 ratios, as fish mortality will not occur unless total gas saturation exceeds 100 percent, regardless of the O2/N2 ratios. There was a significant decrease in mortality when the ratio of oxygen to nitrogen was increased while holding the total percent saturation constant. Much more extensive and severe signs of gas bubble disease developed at high O2/N2 ratios than at low O2/N2 ratios, indicating that oxygen plays a significant part in forming external emphysema and lesions.
The role of soil science in space exploration

New frontiers in soil science are currently found in the investigation of soils in harsh, terrestrial and simulated extraterrestrial environments, the development of new methods and probes for soil characterization, and the eventual investigation, characterization, and development of extraterrestrial soil. Current aspects of space science involving soil studies are presented, including a more detailed soil study program involving the microflora of desert soil ecosystems. Basic precepts are given for preparation, investigation, and use of extraterrestrial soil.
Broadcast news navigation using story segmentation

In this paper we examine tire developed techniques and lessons learned in an operational multimedia exploitation system, Broadcast News Editor (BNE) and Broadcast News Navigator (BNN). BNE captures, analyzes, annotates, segments, summarizes, and stores broadcast news audio, video and textual data within tlte context of multimedia database system BNN provides web based retrieval tools from the multimedia database system. TJle key innovation of this system is the detection and segmentation of story segments from the multimedia broadcast stream. TJtis paper discusses: . TJte utility of using story segments to discover broadcast news stories of interest . Tlte textual, video, and audio cues used for story segment detection . Teclmiques developed for identifying story segments . Details of tlte operational BNE and BNN system BNE and BNN are currently used every evening at MJTRE’s Multimedia Researclz Lab and to this point have automatically processed over 6011 news stories from over 349 broadcasts of CNN Prime News ‘t?
Synthesis, characterization and evaluation of new fluorene-based dimethacrylates for formulating dental composites

This study focused on the preparation and evaluation of several new fluorene-based dimethacrylates, as possible intermediates to formulate improved dental composites. As the first step towards modification of the composite formulation, the new monomers and unfilled resin matrix were prepared. The formulated and visible light-cured materials were found to be more hydrophobic, along with having higher wet (water saturated) glass transition temperatures (Tg) than the commonly used matrix resins based on 2,2-bis(4(2-hydroxy-3-methacryloxy-propyloxy))-phenylpropane (Bis GMA). In addition, the new matrix resins exhibited greater compressive strength, along with greater resistant to creep and fracture. Finally, the results suggested a correlation may exist between creep and the homologous temperature (T/Tg) of the light-cured neat resins, where the T/Tg may be used to compare the mechanical properties of different materials at various temperature. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The ground rules for arch wire design

All force systems applied to a tooth are composed of either single forcesand/or couples. The application of a force through the center of resistance of a tooth will result in translation of the tooth. The application of a force to act at points other than through the center of resistance of a tooth will produce different tendencies for rotation. Tooth rotation resulting from the application of a force always creates a simultaneous tendency to move the center of resistance of a tooth in the direction the force is acting. In contrast, the location of a couple on a tooth is irrelevant to the resulting tooth movement. A couple can never move the center of resistance, and with a couple the center of rotation and the center of resistance will always be coincident. The equilibrium forces, associated with a moment of a couple, also are single-point forces and can produce different tooth movements depending on where they are applied. All tooth movement must be either translation and/ or rotation as defined at the tooth's center of resistance.
How complicated does the model have to be

Simple macroeconomic models based on IS-LM have become unfashionable because of their lack of micro-foundations, and are in danger of being effectively forgotten by the profession. Yet while thinking about micro-foundations is a productive enterprise, complex models based on such foundations are not necessarily more accurate than simple, ad-hoc models. Three decades of attempts to base aggregate supply on rational behaviour have not displaced the Phillips curve; inter-temporal models of consumption do not offer reliable predictions about aggregate demand. Meanwhile, the ease of use of small models makes them superior for many practical applications. So we should not allow them to be driven out of circulation. Copyright 2000 by Oxford University Press.
Response of Human Breast Carcinoma (BT20) Cell Lines to Compressional Force Induced by a Laser Trap

In BT20 human breast cancer cells we have studied the physical changes resulting from compressional stress. We used optical tweezers to directly induce compressional stress on individual cells and measure the resulting elastic deformations.
Hypothesis: Menstruation is a steroid-regulated, cyclic, autoimmune process

There is presented an hypothesis that menstruation occurs when estrogen or progesterone withdrawal permits a previously hormone-blocked interaction between an endometrial autoantigen and its specific autoantibody, thereby inducing the characteristic necrosis and sloughing of the endometrium. Experimental and clinical studies are outlined to test this hypothesis.
Fine and hyperfine structure of the Li - spectrum

The fine and hyperfine structures of the doubly excited, quintet states of the $^{7}\mathrm{Li}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ ion are of comparable magnitude. This leads to strong second-order hyperfine corrections and to significant distortion of the Land\'e interval rule. We discuss the results of our many-body calculations in this system, and also in the analogous lithium quartet systems for which experimental data exist. We find that the hyperfine matrix elements of these few-electron systems may be adequately computed without detailed consideration of the electron correlations. Fine structure is significantly affected by such correlations. Experimental verification of the ${\mathrm{Li}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ structure is underway.
The 2-Silaketenylidene (CSiO) Radical: Electronic Structure of the X̃ 3Σ- and Ã 3Π States†

A theoretical study, using ab initio electronic structure theory, of the ground (X 3Σ-) and first excited triplet (A 3Π) electronic states of the 2-silaketenylidene (CSiO) radical has been reported. The A 3Π state is subject to a Renner−Teller interaction and possesses two distinct real vibrational frequencies along the bending coordinate. To avoid variational collapse to a lower-lying state, the 3A‘ ‘ component of the A 3Π state was investigated using the equation of motion (EOM) CCSD technique. With the TZ3P(2f) EOM-CCSD method, the Renner parameter (e) and bending harmonic vibrational frequency (ω2) for the A 3Π state were determined to be e = −0.253 and ω2 = 337 cm-1. At the highest level of theory, cc-pVQZ CCSD(T), the classical X−A splitting of CSiO was predicted to be 29.8 kcal/mol (1.29 eV, 10 400 cm-1), and the quantum mechanical energy separation to be 31.1 kcal/mol (1.35 eV, 10 900 cm-1). The ground state of CSiO lies 65.4 kcal/mol above the ground state of SiCO. The bond energy for C−SiO was...
Circular dichroism of liver cell membrane organ specific protein.

Abstract Previous work from this laboratory has shown that liver cell plasma membranes from a variety of mammals contain an organ specific protein (Neville, 1968) . This paper reports the purification of this protein under nondenaturing conditions and describes the results of ultraviolet circular dichroism studies performed on the purified protein. The results indicate that virtually all of the residues in the membrane protein are in the α-helix configuration. The data suggest that liver organ specific membrane protein has a rod-like structure.
Space applications of superconductivity: high field magnets

The paper discusses developments in superconducting magnets and their applications in space technology. Superconducting magnets are characterized by high fields (to 15T and higher) and high current densities combined with low mass and small size. The superconducting materials and coil design are being improved and new high-strength composites are being used for magnet structural components. Such problems as maintaining low cooling temperatures (near 4 K) for long periods of time and degradation of existing high-field superconductors at low strain levels can be remedied by research and engineering. Some of the proposed space applications of superconducting magnets include: cosmic ray analysis with magnetic spectrometers, energy storage and conversion, energy generation by magnetohydrodynamic and thermonuclear fusion techniques, and propulsion. Several operational superconducting magnet systems are detailed.
Fetal gene transfer by transuterine injection of cationic liposome-DNA complexes.

In utero injection of cationic liposome–DNA complexes (CLDCs) containing chloramphenicol acetyltransferase, β-galactosidase (β-gal), or human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (hG-CSF) expression plasmids produced high-level gene expression in fetal rats. Tissues adjacent to the injection site exhibited the highest levels of gene expression. Chloramphenicol acetyltransferase expression persisted for at least 14 days and was reexpressed following postnatal reinjection of CLDCs. Intraperitoneal administration of the hG-CSF gene produced high serum hG-CSF levels. X-gal staining demonstrated widespread β-gal expression in multiple fetal tissues and cell types. No toxic or inflammatory responses were observed, nor was there evidence of fetal–maternal or maternal–fetal gene transfer, suggesting that CLDCs may provide a useful alternative to viral vectors for in utero gene transfer.
Real-time mobilization decisions for multi-priority emergency response resources and evacuation groups: Model formulation and solution

This paper presents a model formulation and solution for simultaneous mobilization destination, traffic assignment, and departure schedule for multi-priority groups (SMDTS-MPG) for real-time emergency response in no-notice disasters. The presented approach addresses the decision context in which multiple emergency responses and evacuation flow groups with different destinations and varying priorities coexist in the same traffic network, within which simultaneous mobilization strategies must consider this requirement. The proposed modeling technique and the cell transmission model (CTM)-based linear-programming model provides a mechanism to accomplish this goal in an intuitive and coherent manner. The proposed matrix formulation of the SMDTS-MPG model permits the rapid deployment of the model to large networks. Model formulation and numerical examples are presented in detail in this paper.
Prediction of myocardial signal during CINE balanced SSFP imaging.

To develop a signal model for accurate prediction of myocardial signal during cine-balanced steady-state free precession (bSSFP) imaging. We present a signal model that takes into account the effects of non-ideal slice profile, off-resonance, and radio-frequency transmit variation on myocardial signal behavior. Each of the three factors was examined over the range of imaging parameters routinely used in cine bSSFP cardiac imaging at 3 Tesla. In five healthy volunteers and over a wide range of prescribed flip angles, the conventional on-resonance signal model exhibited 28.9 ± 3.9% error, while the proposed model exhibited only 2.9 ± 1.4% error, and therefore more accurate predictions of myocardial signal behavior. Slice profile effects were found to be significant and accounted for most of the improvement. Off-resonance and RF transmit inhomogeneity effects were less significant but did produce more accurate signal prediction. The proposed signal model produced more accurate predictions of myocardial signal compared to existing models and can be used for the optimization of pulse sequences and protocols.
The Development of First Generation Schizonts of Eimeria bovis

SYNOPSIS. In young first generation schizonts of E. bovis, the nuclei appeared to have a random distribution. In calves killed 8 days after inoculation some of the schizonts had the nuclei arranged in a single layer at the periphery, with a few infoldings of this layer into the interior. In further development, such ingrowths of the nuclear layer resulted in the formation of compartments of varying size. In schizonts of calves killed 12 days after inoculation spherical or ellipsoidal bodies (blastophores), about 5–20 μ in diameter with a single peripheral layer of nuclei were formed. Merozoites developed as radial outgrowths from the blastophores, leaving residual bodies of variable size, which later disappeared. The response of the host cell to the presence of the schizont was characterized by marked growth of both the nucleus and cytoplasm. The nucleolus became greatly enlarged, and the chromatin was distributed in relatively fine granules. In the host cell cytoplasm, 2 concentric layers were observed; the inner was more dense than the outer. After growth of the schizont was completed its host cell was stretched into a thin covering layer about 1 μ thick. In some schizonts, the host cell disintegrated, and the schizont was then invaded by eosinophils, macrophages and other cells, which eventually destroyed the merozoites.
Beyond Bias, Binary, and Border: Mapping out the Future of Comparative Rhetoric

Using the Confucius Institutes as a representative anecdote to think through a series of incongruities, this essay seeks to map out the future of comparative rhetoric. It reconfigures the terms of engagement through a critique of the etic/emic approach and redefines comparative rhetoric by pivoting toward “facts of usage” and facts of “non”-usage. To close the gap between what we think we know about and can speak for the other and what has to happen in order for us to begin to know about and speak for the other, it further calls for enacting the art of recontextualization as a discursive third, a metadisciplinary stance that helps us become more self-reflexive about our own biases, binaries, and boundaries and more attentive to the increasingly blurred and shifting boundaries between self and other, past and present, and local and global.
Familial incidence of intracranial aneurysms.

Four cases of intracranial aneurysms concerning a brother and sister and a mother and son are reported. In the literature sixteen other cases are described. The possibility of a direct hereditary origin of intracranial aneurysms is considered. The view that the familial occurrence of intracranial aneurysms need not necessarily be dependent on familial anomalies of the vascular walls is discussed.