cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mode interaction models for near-wall turbulence

Intermittent bursting events, similar to those characterizing the dynamics of near-wall turbulence, have been observed in a low-dimensional dynamical model (Aubry et al. 1988) built from eigenfunctions of the proper orthogonal decomposition (Lumley 1967). In the present work, we investigate the persistency of the intermittent behaviour in higher - but still of relatively low-dimensional dynamical systems. In particular, streamwise variations which were not accounted for in an explicit way in Aubry et al.'s model are now considered. Intermittent behaviour persists but can be of a different nature. Specifically, the non-zero streamwise modes become excited during the eruptive events so that rolls burst downstream into smaller scales. When structures have a finite length, they travel at a convection speed approximately equal to the mean velocity at the top of the layer (y+ ≈ 40). In all cases, intermittency seems to be due to homoclinic cycles connecting hyperbolic fixed points or more complex (apparently chaotic) limit sets. While these sets lie in the zero streamwise modes invariant subspace, the connecting orbits consist of nonzero streamwise modes travelling downstream. Chaotic limit sets connected by quasi-travelling waves have also been observed in a spatio-temporal chaotic regime of the Kuramoto–Sivashinsky equation (Aubry & Lian 1992a). When the limit sets lose their steadiness, the elongated rolls become randomly active, as they probably are in the real flow. A coherent structure study in our resulting flow fields is performed in order to relate our findings to experimental observations. It is shown that streaks, streamwise rolls, horseshoe vortical structures and shear layers, present in our models, are all connected to each other. Finally, criteria to determine a realistic value of the eddy viscosity parameter are developed.
Accuracy of two electronic pedometers for measuring steps taken under controlled conditions among ambulatory individuals with multiple sclerosis.

Pedometers are inexpensive and user-friendly devices that might be practical for measuring physical activity among individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). This study involved an evaluation of the accuracy of two pedometers against actual steps taken under controlled laboratory conditions (five minute bouts of walking at five different treadmill speeds [41, 54, 67, 80, and 94 m—min-1]) among 23 individuals with MS who were ambulatory without an aide. Both pedometers exhibited good accuracy with the 67, 80, and 94 m=min-1 speeds, but poor accuracy with the 41 and 54 m=min-1 speeds. Those results support the quantification of physical activity using pedometers among those with MS who are ambulatory without an aide.
Influences of Constructivist-Oriented Nutrition Education on Urban Middle School Students' Nutrition Knowledge, Self-efficacy, and Behaviors

Abstract Background: Health professionals are looking to nutrition-based youth health interventions in K-12 schools to combat the growing obesity crisis; however, none have explored the influences of interventions guided by constructivist learning theory. Purpose: This study examined the influences of a constructivist-oriented nutrition education program on urban middle school students' nutrition knowledge, self-efficacy and behaviors. Methods: A quasi-experimental design examined changes in middle schools students' (N = 1,476) nutrition knowledge, self-efficacy and behaviors, relative to a control group (N = 656), in response to a 6-lesson nutrition education intervention. Results: For dietary knowledge and self-efficacy, there were significant group and time main effects and group x time interactions. In addition, there were significant group and time main effects and a group x time interaction for the dietary behaviors related to consuming fruits, vegetables, meats and “other” food groups, but not dair...
Determination of Diffusion Coefficient and Rheological Properties of Surface Layers from Surface Trough Diffusion

Abstract A theoretical analysis of the surface trough diffusion problem is used in this paper to interpret the diffusion coefficient, the dilational elasticity, and the viscosity of a surface layer from experimental measurements of the surface diffusion motion. A simple Kelvin-Voight model, in which the elastic and viscous stresses are additive, is assumed for the material behavior of the surface layer in dilational deformation. The surface flow problem is solved based on the analytical solution of the surface diffusion equation. The surface distribution at any time and the time course at any surface position of dynamic quantities such as concentration, concentration gradient, displacement, velocity, velocity gradient, area strain, and area strain rate are all deduced in explicit form and graphically studied in detail. An interpretation is proposed to obtain the kinetic and rheological properties of the surface layer from experimental measurement of the displacements at the central position of the trough surface at different times, or from the record of the time when the diffusion front passed through a specified surface position. The idea of accessing the diffusivity and dilational viscoelasticity of lipid monolayers by mechanical measurement is new, simple, and feasible. The experiment deserves to be realized in the study of monolayers and bilayers of chemical and biological molecules.
Prolonged coma and visual loss: Unusualreaction to chlorothiazide

Summary Chorothiazide was administered to a 7-year-old boy suffering from nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, following which he developed prolonged coma, hyperpyrexia, and cortical blindness. Though the exact mechanism of this unusual reaction is not clear, it is felt that it represents an abnormal response to the administration of chlorothiazide.
Current Status and Future of Antifungal Therapy for Systemic Mycoses

Since the 1950s there has been an increase in the incidence of invasive fungal disease. The first successful systemically administered antifungal drug, amphotericin B, was introduced in the 1950s and, until very recently, was considered the best therapeutic drug for severe mycoses. The development of new antifungals to treat systemic disease has been slow compared to that of antibacterial compounds, with the introduction of only a single new class of drugs over the past 20 years. This review discusses the antifungal drugs that are clinically in use and summarizes interesting new applications and patents from the US Patent and Trademark Office.
Diffusion and Settling of Suspended Sediment at River Mouths: a Computer Simulation Model: ABSTRACT

A Fortran IV computer program has been written for simulating the diffusion and settling of suspended sediment at river mouths. The rate of sediment accumulation at any point in front of the channel mouth is governed by water and sediment discharge, sediment grain-size distribution, sediment density, the porosity of the resulting sediment, width and depth of the river channel, and the geometry of the basin. A plane jet model is used for determining the velocity field and the rates of sediment diffusion. By adjusting the input parameters, a variety of "delta" deposits may be created. The shape and foreset slope of the delta fan are found to be closely controlled by grain size and discharge. By allowing the model to respond dynamically to the buildup of sediment at the chan el mouth, a distributary mouth bar and submerged levees can be formed. Delta-simulation experiments are monitored by printing (1) maps showing the rates of sedimentation for each grain size at every point in a digital accounting grid and (2) facies maps using alphabetic symbols. Maps and stratigraphic cross sections are drawn with a digital plotter. Computer simulation is an important method for sedimentology, and should be used in combination with hydraulic models and direct observations of natural phenomena. End_of_Article - Last_Page 2162------------
Characteristics of 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine sulfate metabolism in euthyroid man.

The sulfated conjugate of T3 (T3S) has long been recognized as a normal product of peripheral thyroid hormone metabolism. In order to better understand the role that T3S may play in this process, the metabolic handling of T3S was studied in euthyroid man. After the iv administration of [125I]T3S in man, T3S was found to be rapidly metabolized with estimated mean MCR of 135 ± 15 liters/day (L/D) after a bolus injection and 127 ± 8 L/D employing a constant infusion. The primary route of T3S disposal was by deiodination with an efficiency of 92%. The administration of propylthiouracil (PTU, 300 mg every 6 h × 5 days) and iopanoic acid (IA, 500 mg every day × 5 days), both inhibitors of deiodination, decreased clearance compared to control (87 ± 9 L/D, P < 0.01 and 46 ± 10 L/D, P < 0.002, respectively). A 3-day fast also reduced the clearance of T3S (56 ± 10 L/D, P < 0.002). All three maneuvers decreased the total urinary deiodination fraction of tracer T3S (control 91 ± 2%, PTU 70 ± 9%, P < 0.04, IA 26 ± 3%,...
Foraminiferal trends in a Holocene turbidite

Abstract Sediments cored in Cascadia Deep-Sea Channel in the northeastern Pacific show a rhythmic alternation of thick, graded, olive-green turbidity current deposits and thin layers of gray pelagic clay. Benthic foraminifera indigenous to shallow, intermediate and abyssal depths occur within a single graded layer from the channel floor. Forms from all depths occur throughout the layer indicating that the transporting turbidity current accumulated and mixed sediment as it flowed from the source area to the abyssal plain. A striking size sorting of foraminifera occurs along with the grading and sorting of the sediment itself, indicating deposition from suspension.
An Action Research Study of Student Self-Assessment in Higher Education

Although student self-assessment is considered a critical component of assessment for learning, its use and related research are rare in higher education. This article describes an action research study of self-assessment as an instructional strategy in two university courses. Results indicate that self-assessment exercises provided students the opportunity to reflect on the course and their performance, helped them monitor their own progress, motivated them to do well in the course, and provided them the opportunity to give feedback to the instructor. Additionally, from the instructor perspective, the exercises provided useful feedback for course improvement and facilitated interactions and relationships with students.
Laparoscopic cryoablation of hepatic metastases.

Cryosurgery for liver metastases may improve survival for unresectable hepatic metastases. The laparoscopic approach to managing these tumors is a novel method fostered by increasing surgeon and patient interest in minimally invasive surgical techniques and the development of laparoscopic ultrasound and cryoprobes. A retrospective review of our patients who underwent laparoscopic cryoablation of hepatic tumors from April 1996 to December 1997 was conducted. We report on this experience and comment on the feasibility and safety of the procedure based on this early trial. Semin. Surg. Oncol. 15:194–201, 1998. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Sex differences in responses to epidural steroid injection for low back pain.

Abstract Sex differences in clinical and experimental pain responses have been widely reported; however, few studies have examined sex differences in outcomes from interventional pain treatment and the predictors thereof. The aims of this study were to examine sex differences in (1) the acute pain produced by epidural steroid injections (ESIs), (2) clinical improvements in pain and pain-related psychological distress and disability after ESIs, and (3) predictors of the clinical response to ESIs. A total of 57 patients (37 menopausal women and 20 men), seen in the pain clinic of a regional medical center for ESI therapy, participated. Patients rated the painfulness of the ESI procedure itself. Also, clinical pain, depression, and disability were assessed before treatment and at 2 weeks and 2 months after the ESIs. Participants also were queried about their expectations of successful pain relief, coping strategies, and pain-related anxiety, which were examined as predictors of treatment outcome. Men reported significantly greater pain intensity and unpleasantness than women for the first injection only. All groups showed significant reductions in clinical pain, depression, and disability at 2 weeks compared to baseline, but minimal change occurred between 2 weeks and 2 months past baseline. No sex differences in the magnitude of treatment response emerged; however, specific dimensions of pain coping were associated with treatment responses in a sex-dependent manner. These findings suggest that the determinants of ESI pain and treatment outcome might differ across sex. Perspective Sex-related influences on pain responses have been widely reported, but few studies have explored sex-dependent predictors of treatment response. These findings indicate that pain coping was differentially associated with outcomes after ESI in women versus men.
Responses of Dwarf and Normal Chickens to Feed Restriction, Eimeria tenella Infection, and Sheep Red Blood Cell Antigen

Abstract Relationships among stress responses, habituation to feed restriction, resistance to Eimeria tenella, and antibody response to SRBC were studied in dwarf and normal White Plymouth Rocks. Transfer of chicks at 22 days of age from starter to developer batteries resulted in an increase within 24 h of heterophil:lymphocyte (H:L) ratios of chicks of both genotypes. Restriction of feed intake from ad libitum (AL) to 60% of ad libitum reduced body weight and increased size of the crop-esophagus. As measured by H:L ratios, the effect of adapting to the 60% feed restriction dissipated between 12 and 16 days after initiation. Release of 60% restricted chicks to 80% of ad libitum also elicited a stress response as measured by H:L. These effects were noted in both dwarf and normal chicks. Time required for chicks on restriction to consume their daily allotment was curvilinear with a plateau occurring at a smaller value for dwarf than for normal chicks. Neither feeding regimen nor genotype had an effect on antibody response to SRBC. Resistance to E. tenella was greater in normal than dwarf chicks and greater for restricted than ad libitum chicks.
I—Dean Zimmerman: From Property Dualism to Substance Dualism

Property dualism is enjoying a slight resurgence in popularity, these days; substance dualism, not so much. But it is not as easy as one might think to be a property dualist and a substance materialist. The reasons for being a property dualist support the idea that some phenomenal properties (or qualia ) are as fundamental as the most basic physical properties; but what material objects could be the bearers of the qualia? If even some qualia require an adverbial construal (if they are modifications of the thing that is conscious because of them, not properties of something else to which the subject of consciousness is related), then the property dualist can be driven to speculative forms of materialism none of which, at this point, looks more likely to be true than the more modest versions of emergent dualism defended by contemporary substance dualists.
Curvature-continuous extensions for rational B-spline curves and surfaces

Abstract The paper presents a method for extending rational B-spline curves and surfaces. The approach taken is geometric, and it can easily be implemented in a CAD/CAM surface modeler based on the rational B-spline mathematical form. The method uses knot insertion and the reflection of control points to generate extensions. As extrapolation can, in general, result in unpredictable results, this method should be used for relatively ‘short’ extensions.
Characterization of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa metalloendopeptidase, Mep72, a member of the Vfr regulon

Pseudomonas aeruginosa Vfr (the virulence factor regulator) enhances P. aeruginosa virulence by positively regulating the expression of numerous virulence genes. A previous microarray analysis identified numerous genes positively regulated by Vfr in strain PAK, including the yet uncharacterized PA2782 and PA2783. In this study, we report the detailed characterization of PA2783 in the P. aeruginosa strain PAO1. RT-PCR analysis confirmed that PA2782-PA2783 constitute an operon. A mutation in vfr significantly reduced the expression of both genes. The predicted protein encoded by PA2783 contains a typical leader peptide at its amino terminus end as well as metalloendopeptidase and carbohydrate binding motifs at its amino terminus and carboxy terminus regions, respectively. An in-frame PA2783::phoA fusion encoded a hybrid protein that was exported to the periplasmic space of Escherichia coli and P. aeruginosa. In PAO1, the proteolytic activity of the PA2783-encoded protein was masked by other P. aeruginosa extracellular proteases but an E. coli strain carrying a PA2783 recombinant plasmid produced considerable proteolytic activity. The outer membrane fraction of an E. coli strain in which PA2783 was overexpressed contained specific endopeptidase activity. In the presence of cAMP, purified recombinant Vfr (rVfr) bound to a 98-bp fragment within the PA2782-PA2783 upstream region that carries a putative Vfr consensus sequence. Through a series of electrophoretic mobility shift assays, we localized rVfr binding to a 33-bp fragment that contains part of the Vfr consensus sequence and a 5-bp imperfect (3/5) inverted repeat at its 3′ and 5′ ends (TGGCG-N22-CGCTG). Deletion of either repeat eliminated Vfr binding. PA2782 and PA2783 constitute an operon whose transcription is positively regulated by Vfr. The expression of PA2783 throughout the growth cycle of P. aeruginosa follows a unique pattern. PA2783 codes for a secreted metalloendopeptidase, which we named Mep72. Mep72, which has metalloendopeptidase and carbohydrate-binding domains, produced proteolytic and endopeptidase activities in E. coli. Vfr directly regulates the expression of the PA2782-mep72 operon by binding to its upstream region. However, unlike other Vfr-targeted genes, Vfr binding does not require an intact Vfr consensus binding sequence.
Fourier transform Raman spectroscopic studies of a polyimide curing reaction

Abstract Fourier transform (FT)-Raman spectroscopy was used to monitor the curing reaction of a polyimide bonding agent, the Ciba-Geigy Matrimid® system. Major Raman bands were assigned by comparison to spectra for small model molecules, by use of ab initio calculations, and by reference to previous literature. The set of FT-Raman spectra taken at various intervals during the curing process was modeled by principal component analysis (PCA). Cure percentage determined by differential scanning calorimetry was then regressed against scores on the first principal component for the different polymer samples. The PCA and regression results summarized significant trends in the FT-Raman spectra and led to a better understanding of the curing mechanism.
Organocatalytic Approach to Amphiphilic Comb-Block Copolymers Capable of Stereocomplexation and Self-Assembly

Biocompatible amphiphilic block copolymers comprised of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) as the hydrophilic component and a poly(methylcarboxytrimethylene carbonate) (PMTC) as a hydrophobic backbone having either poly(l-lactide) (l-PLA) or poly(d-lactide) (d-PLA) branches were prepared by organocatalytic ring-opening polymerization (ROP). The polycarbonate backbone was prepared by copolymerization of two different MTC-type monomers (MTCs) including a tetrahydropyranyloxy protected hydroxyl group, a masked initiator for a subsequent ROP step. Interestingly, the organic catalyst used in the ROP of MTCs was also effective for acetylation of the hydroxyl end-groups by the addition of acetic anhydride added after polymerization. Acidic deprotection of the tetrahydropyranyloxy (THP) protecting group on the carbonate chain generated hydroxyl functional groups that served as initiators for the ROP of either d- or l-lactide. Comb-shaped block copolymers of predictable molecular weights and narrow polydispersities (∼1.3...
On the existence of two ‘transition’ boiling curves

Abstract The idea that there are two ‘transition’ boiling curves accessible to a given liquid boiling on a given surface, is advanced. A variety of saturated, subcooled, pool, and flow boiling data are shown to be consistent with, and explainable in terms of, the idea. Some of the data are hitherto unpublished results. The two boiling curves are extensions of the nucleate and film boiling curves, and they are related to nucleate and film boiling phenomenologically.
The Strength of a Calcified Tissue Depends in Part on the Molecular Structure and Organization of its Constituent Mineral Crystals in their Organic Matrix

High-voltage electron-microscopic tomographic (3D) studies of the ultrastructural interaction between mineral and organic matrix in a variety of calcified tissues reveal different crystal structural and organizational features in association with their respective organic matrices. In brittle or weak pathologic or ectopic calcifications, including examples of osteogenesis imperfecta, calciphylaxis, calcergy, and dermatomyositis, hydroxyapatite crystals occur in various sizes and shapes and are oriented and aligned with respect to collagen in a manner which is distinct from that found in normal calcified tissues. A model of collagen-mineral interaction is proposed which may account for the observed crystal structures and organization. The results indicate that the ultimate strength, support, and other mechanical properties provided by a calcified tissue are dependent in part upon the molecular structure and arrangement of its constituent mineral crystals within their organic matrix.
Integrating a knowledge-based component into a physical database design system

Abstract Physical database design is a difficult and complex process. Algorithmic approaches are appropriate for design subproblems, such as record segmentation and access path selection, but are infeasible for global design. A major problem with algorithmic approaches is that, for realistic databases, the number of alternative schema possibilities that must be evaluated to generate an optimal design is extremely large. Our design system addresses this problem by combining a knowledge-based component with an algorithmic component. The knowledge-based component reduces the solution space to a reasonable size by producing a small number of efficient schema alternatives. The algorithmic component develops a low cost design for each alternative. An example of the application of the KBS component of the design system is presented.
Digestion of the basic trypsin inhibitor of bovine pancreas by thermolysin

Abstract Extensive digestion of the basic trypsin inhibitor by thermolysin at 60–80° has been demonstrated by loss of inhibitory activity, increase in ninhydrin positive material and separation of the breakdown products by electrophoresis. Formation of the inhibitor-trypsin complex does not protect the inhibitor from digestion by thermolysin; both components are digested. Between 40° and 80° the inhibitor undergoes a reversible transition involving a slight conformational change; this may account for its susceptibility to thermolysin.
A goldstone mode in the Kawasaki-Ising model

The hydrodynamic regime of superfluids is dominated by a Goldstone mode corresponding to a spontaneously brokenU(1) symmetry. In this article we map the Kawasaki-Ising model for a classical lattice gas into a quantum model for a superfluid and establish a connection between the normal density fluctuations of the first and the Goldstone mode of the second. The fact that the quantum model we obtain describes a superfluid derives from an inequality by Penrose and Onsager which gives a lower bound to the Bose-Einstein condensate density. Mathematically, the Goldstone mode can be described by means of a “quantum” extension of the local algebra of the Ising model. The classification of its irreducible representations requires an additionalU(1) phase factor and the correspondingU(1) gauge symmetry is spontaneously broken for all finite values of the temperature and of the density.
The quantity and quality of physical activity among those trying to lose weight.

Background: Regular exercise to elicit caloric expenditure is an important component for achieving weight loss. The Healthy People 2000 objectives recommend regular sustained physical activity lasting 30 minutes, five days per week (Objective 1.3) particularly for weight loss. Moreover, this recommendation has been restated for weight loss and overall health benefits in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention / American College of Sports Medicine (CDC/ACSM) statement and Surgeon General’s Report (SGR) on Physical Activity and Health. Thus, we sought to identify the relative quality and quantity of physical activity among people trying to lose weight. Design: Cross-sectional self-reported data from the West Virginia Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) were used. The BRFSS is a state-based telephone survey of adults that uses a multistage cluster design based on the Waksberg method of random-digit dialing. Data from 2769 men and 4490 women were obtained from the 1992, 1994, and 1996 surveys. Results: Half (49.6%) of individuals trying to lose weight did not engage in any physical activity. Further, only 15% of respondents trying to lose weight reported exercising regularly. Nevertheless, those trying to lose weight were more likely (OR [odds ratio] = 1.3; 95% CI [confidence interval], 1.14, 1.51, p < 0.001) to exercise regularly than those not trying to lose weight. In particular, women trying to lose weight were significantly more likely (OR = 1.45; 95% CI, 1.22,1.74, p < 0.001) to exercise regularly than women not trying to lose weight. Conversely, men trying to lose weight were no more likely to exercise regularly (p = .23) than men not trying to lose weight. Among respondents who were using exercise for weight loss, only 14.7% were expending ≥1000 kcal/week and 18.2% were expending ≥500 kcal/week. Weekly expenditure rates of ≥1000 kcal/week were more likely to occur among men (17%) than women (13.8%), in younger age groups, and among those with higher educational attainment. Conclusion: These data suggest that while certain individuals trying to lose weight are more likely to engage in regular physical activity, most persons trying to lose weight have not adopted regular physical activity as part of their weight loss practice. These results suggest that public health efforts to effectively integrate physical activity into weight control practices of West Virginians have been minimally successful.
Dynamic modeling of a revolute-prismatic flexible robot arm fabricated from advanced composite materials

A dynamic model for a two degree-of-freedom planar robot arm is derived in this study. The links of the arm, connected to prismatic and revolute joints, are considered to be flexible. They are assumed to be fabricated from either aluminum or laminated composite materials. The model is derived based on the Timoshenko beam theory in order to account for the rotary inertia and shear deformation. These effects are significant in modeling flexible links connected to prismatic joints. The deflections of the links are approximated by using a shear-deformable beam finite element. Hamilton's principle is implemented to derive the equations describing the combined rigid and flexible motions of the arm. The resulting equations are coupled and highly nonlinear. In view of the large number of equations involved and their geometric nonlinearity (topological and quadratic), the solution of the equations of motion is obtained numerically by using a stiff integrator. The digital simulation studies examine the interaction between the flexible and the rigid body motions of the robot arm, investigate the improvement in the accuracy of the model by considering the flexibility of all rather than some of the links of the arm, assess the significance of the rotary inertia and shear deformation, and illustrate the advantages of using advanced composites in the structural design of robotic manipulators.
The spectrum of histopathologic findings in vesical diverticulum: implications for pathogenesis and staging

Diverticula are saccular evaginations of urinary bladder mucosa that are encountered in all age groups with a prevalence of 1% to 10%. Intradiverticular neoplasms pose diagnostic and management challenges. The aim of this study was to document the common morphologic changes and neoplasms found in a large series of adult and pediatric vesical diverticula. A total of 174 diverticula from 133 patients were reviewed including 48 pediatric (mean age, 7.1 years) and 85 adult (mean age, 63.93 years); 92% were male. Of the 85 nonneoplastic cases, prominent morphologic findings included significant chronic inflammation (59), granulomatous inflammation including foreign body giant cell reaction (6), acute inflammation (7), squamous metaplasia (9), cystitis glandularis (10), and nephrogenic metaplasia (2). The pediatric cases showed no malignancy. Thirty-three of the 48 neoplastic cases had high-grade urothelial carcinoma, 4 had carcinoma in situ, 7 had low-grade papillary urothelial carcinoma, 2 had primary squamous cell carcinoma, 1 had primary melanoma, and 1 had urothelial dysplasia. Nine of the neoplastic cases had variant morphology. Diverticula from 31 cases were involved by primary tumors, of which 6 had coexisting intravesical neoplasia (3 had carcinoma in situ with invasion elsewhere). In 19 of 33 high-grade urothelial carcinomas, infiltration into adjacent fat was noted. Seven of these cases arose within diverticula. Diverticula may harbor neoplasms, most commonly urothelial carcinoma. Attenuation of the muscle layer associated with diverticulum formation may facilitate tumor invasion into peridiverticular soft tissues. It is emphasized that pT2 stage should be eliminated to avoid the confusion in staging these neoplasms.
Urine catecholamine levels as diagnostic markers for neuroblastoma in a defined population: implications for ophthalmic practice.

Urine catecholamine levels as diagnostic markers for neuroblastoma in a defined population: implications for ophthalmic practice
The absence of a color-distance trend in comets

New near-IR J-H and H-K observations of 23 comets have been obtained in the heliocentric distance range of 1 to 6 AU. No evidence is found for a color-distance trend in the present sample. Significant differences between the grain populations in different comets are pointed out. The results indicate that the color distributions are unimodal, and that, unlike asteroids, the comets cannot be classified into distinct color-defined groups.
Regulation of glucocorticoid receptor immunoreactivity in the rat hippocampus by andronergic-anabolic steroids☆

Abstract To determine whether androenic-anabolic steroids (AAS) regulate glucocorticoid receptors (GR), the effects of a mixture of three commonly abused AAS (testosterone cypionate, nandrolone decanoate and boldenone undecylenate) on GR immunoreactivity (ir), were examined in hippocampi of adrenalectomized male rats. Treatment with AAS for 1 week increased nuclear GRir in pyramidal cells of CA1, and granule cells of the dentate gyrus. These findings suggest a role for GR in the mediation of some of the CNS effects of androgenic-anabolic steroids.
Contribution of Kca channel activation to hypoxic cerebrovasodilation does not involve NO

Abstract Although nitric oxide (NO) and calcium sensitive K + channel (K ca ) activation contribute to hypoxic pial artery dilation in the piglet, responses to the NO releasers SNP and SNAP are unchanged by the K ca channel antagonist iberiotoxin. These data suggest that NO does not elicit dilation via K ca channel activation. The present study was designed to determine if dilation by K ca channel activation is mediated by NO in newborn pigs equipped with a closed cranial window. NS1619 (10 −8 , 10 −6 M), a K ca agonist, produced dilation that was unchanged by the NO synthase inhibitor, l -NNA (10 −6 or 10 −3 M) (11±1 and 20±1 vs. 11±1 and 18±1% before and after l -NNA 10 −3 M). NS1619 dilation also was not associated with increased CSF cGMP and was unchanged by Rp 8-Bromo cGMPs, a cGMP antagonist (9±1 and 17±1 vs. 9±1 and 16±2% before and after Rp 8-Bromo cGMPs 10 −5 M). Iberiotoxin (10 −7 M) attenuated hypoxic dilation but hypoxia associated CSF cGMP release was unchanged (418±11 and 897±31 vs. 419±10 and 896±25 fmol/ml for control and moderate hypoxia before and after iberiotoxin). Coadministration of l -NNA with iberiotoxin further decremented hypoxic pial dilation and blocked the hypoxia-associated rise in CSF cGMP. These data show that pial artery dilation by K ca channel activation is not mediated by NO/cGMP. Further, these data suggest that NO and the K ca channel act at different sites in their contributions to hypoxic pial artery dilation.
Interfacial regulation of crystallization in aqueous environments

Abstract In nature, organisms control crystal nucleation and growth using organic interfaces as templates. Scientists are striving to understand this biological process and adapt it in order to produce synthetic analogs for use as advanced materials and composites. Recently, there has been much work in the area of understanding and controlling crystallization events at organic interfaces in aqueous environments has taken place. © 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd.
Preferred Conformers and Photochemical (λ > 200 nm) Reactivity of Serine and 3,3-Dideutero-Serine In the Neutral Form

A systematic investigation of the conformational potential energy surface of neutral serine [HOCH2CHNH2COOH] and 3,3-dideutero-serine [HOCD2CHNH2COOH] was undertaken, revealing the existence of 61 different minima. The structures and vibrational spectra of the most stable conformers, which were estimated to have relative energies within 7 kJ mol-1 and account for ca. 93% of the total conformational population at room temperature, were calculated at both the MP2 and DFT/BLYP levels of theory with the 6-311++G(d,p) basis-set and used to interpret the spectroscopic data obtained for the compounds isolated in low-temperature inert matrixes. The assignment of the main spectral infrared features observed in the range 4000−400 cm-1 to the most stable conformers of serine was undertaken. In addition, UV irradiation (λ > 200 nm) of the matrix-isolated compounds was also performed, leading to decarboxylation, which was found to be strongly dependent on the conformation assumed by the reactant molecule.
Longitudinal structure functions in high-energy lepton-hadron scattering

The ratio of longitudinal to transverse structure functions at high energies, hitherto unmeasured, can be determined from the present generation of muon-hadron scattering experiments. This quantity has an important bearing on the viability of the quark-parton picture and the correct interpretation of the ''anomalies'' of high-energy neutrino and antineutrino scattering experiments.
Growth control by intracellular tension and extracellular stiffness

Integrin-mediated cell attachment to the extracellular matrix is an established regulator of the cell cycle, and the best-characterized targets of this process are the cyclin D1 gene and members of the cip and kip (cip/kip) family of cdk inhibitors. Manipulation of intracellular tension affects the same targets, supporting the idea that integrin activation and intracellular tension are closely related. Several signaling cascades, including FAK, Rho GTPases and ERK, transmit the integrin and tensional signals to pathways controlling the cell cycle. However, the experimental approaches that have generated these results alter cell adhesion and tension in ways that do not reflect the subtlety of those occurring in vivo. Increasing emphasis is therefore being placed on approaches that use micropatterning to control cell spreading, and deformable substrata to model the compliance of biological tissue.
Coronary steal and ST elevation during dipyridamole stress testing leading to coronary artery bypass grafting.

Although our patient had a very rare manifestation of vasodilatory-induced coronary steal, it is important to be aware of this type of event during routine stress testing. This case reinforces the potential for acute myocardial infarction (1/10.000)13 as a life-threatening adverse event during dipyridamole infusion. This type of event appears to warrant expeditious coronary angiography and appropriate coronary revascularization.
Photocatalytic conversion of methane contained in methane hydrates

Photocatalytic conversion of methane dissolved in water at 1 MPa and 100 MPa, and methane contained in methane hydrates was performed. Several photocatalysts based on tungsten oxide and titania was investigated. Both full spectrum and visible light were used as the illumination source. Our results indicate that the photocatalyst with the highest level of conversion of methane is the lanthanum-doped tungsten oxide. The main products of photocatalysis are hydrogen and methanol.
On rounded five-element lines of matroids

Abstract We show that if X is a five-element line in a 3-connected matroid M which has a six-element line minor, then M has a minor using X which is isomorphic to a six-element line or one of two rank-3 matroids on ten elements. The two rank-3 matroids are constructed by freely adding an element to a four-element line of either the rank-3 Dowling geometry over GF (3) or the ternary Reid geometry. A corresponding result for four-element lines was provided by Oxley, Vertigan, and Whittle.
MODELING OF HYDRAULIC HOSE PATHS

Hydraulic hoses are key components used to transfer power in heavy industrial machinery. The routing of these hoses is currently performed late in the product design process because no accurate physical models of the hoses exist that allow designers to predict the path the hoses will follow when installed in the machine. Designers must either guess the path the hose will take based on prior experience or wait until the first product prototype is built in order to experiment with the hose routes. This paper describes the use of ADAMS, a commercially available dynamic modeling package, to predict hose paths. The hose path model was verified by comparing the predicted paths to the paths of real hoses.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Single dose methotrexate therapy: application to interstitial ectopic pregnancy

A woman with a small (6-mm gestational sac) interstitial pregnancy had complete resolution after medical therapy alone. A single cycle of methotrexate 50 mg/m2 was used as outpatient treatment without any operative procedure either for diagnosis or intervention. The guidelines that have evolved for selection of women for single dose methotrexate treatment for both intrauterine and tubal ectopic pregnancies may be applicable to interstitial ectopic pregnancy as well. A suggested framework for treatment decisions is presented.
Cellular accumulation of anandamide: consensus and controversy

The endocannabinoids N-arachidonylethanolamine (AEA or anandamide) and 2-arachidonylglycerol (2-AG) are hypothesized to function in the brain as interneuronal signaling molecules. Prevailing models of the actions of these molecules require that they traverse cellular plasma membranes twice; first, following cellular synthesis and second, prior to enzymatic hydrolysis. The transmembrane movement of AEA has been studied in multiple laboratories with a primary focus on its cellular accumulation following extracellular administration. Although there are areas of consensus among laboratories regarding AEA accumulation, several aspects are very unclear. In particular, there is a lack of consensus in the literature regarding the importance of AEA hydrolysis by fatty acid amide hydrolase in maintaining the driving force for accumulation. Furthermore, evidence for and against a transmembrane carrier protein has been published. We have reviewed the available literature and present a working model of the processes that are involved in the cellular accumulation of AEA. It is our hypothesis that transmembrane movement of AEA is regulated by concentration gradient between extracellular and intracellular free AEA. Furthermore, it is our view that a significant portion of the intracellular AEA in most cells is sequestered either by a protein or lipid compartment and that AEA sequestered in this manner does not equilibrate directly with the extracellular pool. Finally, we discuss the available data that have been presented in support of a transmembrane carrier protein for AEA.
Solar and wind opportunities for water desalination in the Arab regions

Despite the abundance of renewable energy resources in the Arab region, the use of solar thermal, solar photovoltaics, and wind is still in its technological and economic infancy. Great potential exists, but economic constraints have impeded more rapid growth for many applications. These technologies have certainly advanced technically over the last quarter century to the point where they should now be considered clean-energy alternatives to fossil fuels. For the Arab countries and many other regions of the world, potable water is becoming as critical a commodity as electricity. As renewable energy technologies advance and environmental concerns rise, these technologies are becoming more interesting partners for powering water desalination projects. We evaluate the current potential and viability of solar and wind, emphasizing the strict mandate for accurate, reliable site-specific resource data. Water desalination can be achieved through either thermal energy (using phase-change processes) or electricity (driving membrane processes), and these sources are best matched to the particular desalination technology. Desalination using solar thermal can be accomplished by multistage flash distillation, multi-effect distillation, vapor compression, freeze separation, and solar still methods. Concentrating solar power offers the best match to large-scale plants that require both high-temperature fluids and electricity. Solar and wind electricity can be effective energy sources for reverse osmosis, electrodialysis, and ultra- and nano-filtration. All these water desalination processes have special operational and high energy requirements that put additional requisites on the use of solar and wind to power these applications. We summarize the characteristics of the various desalination technologies. The effective match of solar thermal, solar photovoltaics, and wind to each of these is discussed in detail. An economic analysis is provided that incorporates energy consumption, water production levels, and environmental benefits in its model. Finally, the expected evolution of the renewable technologies over the near- to mid-term is discussed with the implications for desalination applications over these timeframes.
The Application of Periodic Loading to Ferrite Phase Shifter Design

The use of periodic loading to enhance the differential phase shift of a remanence ferrite phase shifter, while maintaining frequency compensation, has been reported previously. This paper reports on progress in the use of this techniques and the characteristics obtained versus the degree of periodic loading. The circuit has low cost potential and results in a reduction of the size and switching energy of the phase shifter; however, this is obtained at the expense of peak power handling capability.
DNA cleavage in trans by the active site tyrosine during Flp recombination: Switching protein partners before exchanging strands

Abstract Each recombination event mediated by the Flp recombinase is the sum of four strand breakage and reunion reactions executed in two steps of two-strand exchanges. The reaction requires four Flp monomers. The key catalytic residue in Flp is Tyr-343. Arg-191, His-305, and Arg-308 appear to facilitate the cleavage and exchange steps of recombination. These four residues constitute the invariant tetrad of the Int family site-specific recombinases. Complementation tests between "step-arrest" mutants of Flp suggest that each Flp protomer harbors a "fractional active site." Hybrid "half site-recombinase" complexes reveal that efficient catalysis occurs when the Arg-His-Arg triad is present on one Flp monomer and the active site Tyr on a second monomer. Strand cleavage by an Flp monomer occurs virtually exclusively on the half site to which its partner protein is bound (cleavage in trans), and almost never on the half site to which it is bound (cleavage in cis). Trans-cleavage by Flp can provide a means for functionally exchanging Flp monomers between two DNA partners. Such a mechanism would be germane to recombination, since cleavage and rejoining in cis can only restore the parental substrate configuration and cannot yield recombinants.
The New Judicial Politics of Legal Doctrine

A new judicial politics of legal doctrine has the potential to resolve foundational dilemmas and reconcile long-standing and counterproductive scholarly divisions by bringing together legal concerns and political science priorities. This doctrinal-politics approach highlights a relatively new formal apparatus known as the case-space model, and it invokes close ties between theoretical and empirical work and between the study of judicial behavior and actual legal practices and institutions. The case-space model is an adaption of standard policy-space modeling, tailored for the distinguishing features of judicial policy making. It allows for ideological differences between judges while expressing those differences in terms of legal rules that partition fact-filled legal cases into different dispositions. I explore the intellectual origins and primary contributions of the approach, focusing on how legal policy is affected by collegiality (the multi-member nature of appellate courts) and hierarchy (the multi-...
Docosahexaenoic acid alters epidermal growth factor receptor-related signaling by disrupting its lipid raft association

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a 22:6 n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid, is the longest and most highly unsaturated fatty acid found in most membranes and has been shown to inhibit cancer cell growth in part by modifying cell signaling. In the current study, alterations to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling upon DHA supplementation are examined in A549 lung adenocarcinoma, WiDr colon carcinoma and MDA-MB-231 breast carcinoma cell lines. Interestingly, EGFR phosphorylation, most notably at the tyrosine 1068 residue, is dramatically upregulated, and EGFR association with the Sos1 guanine nucleotide exchange factor is concomitantly increased upon DHA supplementation. However, guanosine triphosphate-bound Ras and phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (Erk)1/2 are paradoxically downregulated in the same treatments. Previous reports have noted changes in membrane microdomains upon DHA supplementation, and our findings confirmed that EGFR, but not Ras, is excluded from caveolin-rich lipid raft fractions in DHA-treated cells, resulting in a decreased association of Ras with Sos1 and the subsequent downregulation of Erk signaling. Xenografts of the A549 cell line implanted in athymic mice fed a control high-fat diet or a diet high in DHA confirmed our in vitro data. These results demonstrate for the first time a functional consequence of decreased EGFR protein in lipid raft microdomains as a result of DHA treatment in three different cancer models. In addition, we report the ability of DHA to enhance the efficacy of EGFR inhibitors on anchorage-independent cell growth (soft agar), providing evidence for the potential development of enhanced combination therapies.