cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evidence for scaling in an interfacial growth instability: The solid case.

An interfacial instability driven by concentration diffusion in a solid system is studied with use of simulations based on an Ising lattice-gas model with conserved dynamics. Interfacial thermodynamic properties including the effect of surface tension are built in at the microscopic level. Finger structures evolve on a reasonable scale compared to any thermal characteristic lengths. The dynamics and universality of the growth process are studied. Evidence is presented for power-law growth, and for a scaling form in the evolution of the Fourier transform of the interface shape.
Nonrelativistic Dyon-Dyon Scattering

Abstract The nonrelativistic problem of the scattering of two dyons (including the case of electron scattering by magnetic monopoles) is systematically studied, both classically and quantum mechanically, with a view toward the discrimination between various combinations of electric and magnetic charges. We analyze the classical cross section with particular attention to the interesting phenomena which occur for large angle scattering, the “rainbows” and “glory,” where the cross section becomes infinite. Quantum mechanically, we find that these infinities do not occur and that, when the partial wave scattering amplitude is summed, a very elaborate structure emerges for the cross section, which depends sensitively upon the electric and magnetic charges of the particles, as well as on their relative speed. We further discuss a large modification, leading to spin flip and nonflip amplitudes, due to the dipole moments of the particles. Numerical results are presented for a variety of values of these parameters. In principle, these results could be used to distinguish the δ-ray distributions produced by the various species of electrically and magnetically charged particles. Quite apart from the experimental implications of our numerical results, we have made a number of theoretical improvements and extensions. Numbered among these are the consideration of dyons and particles having dipole moments, and the explicit demonstration, based on the methods of angular momentum, that the differential cross section is independent of the choice of singularity line.
The legal (de)construction of geography: race and political community in supreme court redistricting decisions

This article examines the different conceptions of racial identity and ‘geography’ in two landmark Supreme Court decisions, Shaw v. Reno (1993) and Easley v. Cromartie (2001). Both decisions evaluated similar Congressional redistricting plans in North Carolina, but reached opposite conclusions. In Reno, the Court based its reasoning on the ‘objective’, ‘natural’ and ‘rational’ geography of North Carolina. Such geographic relationships create political communities and constrain the way in which state legislatures can draw electoral districts. In contrast, the Easley decision based its reasoning on voting behaviour, and makes an implicit appeal to deliberative democratic principles. From this perspective, political relationships create the geographic relationships defined by Congressional district boundaries. Where the Reno decision treats race as an arbitrary social distinction that the state should not use as the basis of political representation, the Easley opinion argues that the state can consider diff...
Brain dynamics, psychophysiological uncertainty and behavioral learning.

The present paper takes a first step toward the integration of recent findings on brain dynamics and learning into established fields of psychophysiological science.
What do you do when you're happy or blue? Mood, expectancies, and behavioral interest

The effects of induced moods on interest in performing a wide spectrum of behaviors were examined in two experiments. In Experiment 1, subjects who received the Velten Mood Induction elation manipulation indicated significantly greater interest than neutral subjects in social, prosocial, strenuous, leisure, and general activities on a shortened version of the Pleasant Events Schedule. Subjects who received the depression induction indicated lower interest in social, leisure, and strenuous activities. Depressed mood was associated with an interest in sitting and thinking, being alone, and taking a nap, but depression produced no increase in interest in prosocial behavior or in 12 forms of self-gratification. Experiment 2 focused on seven potential mediators in the effects of mood on behavior interests. Following a positive, negative, or neutral mood induction, subjects were asked to record their positive and negative outcome expectancies, positive and negative emotion expectancies, and their self-perceptions of energy, ability, and opportunity for active and passive, social and nonsocial behaviors. Induced elation, depression, and neutral moods again were found to influence interest in both active and passive types of social and nonsocial behaviors. The subjects' expectations of positive outcomes, and to a lesser extent their perceived energy for the behavior, were the strongest mediators of the effect of mood on behavior interests.
Electroencephalographic indications of brightness enhancement

Abstract Bartley has suggested that the alpha rhythm is related to the increased apparent brightness (brightness enhancement) of flashes at 8–10/sec when compared with a steady field of the same physical intensity. We investigated changes in the amount of electrical activity in the electroencephalogram, at the frequency of the flicker during brightness matchings between a flickering and a steadily illuminated field. The EEG activity at the frequency of the flicker rate did not increase with the occurrence of brightness enhancement.
2, 4-D Residues in tubers; Texture and respiration of potatoes in storage

Residues of 2, 4-D found in potato tubers ranged from 15 to 30 ppb at harvest when 2, 4-D was applied at the rate and time recommended for enhancement of color and control of tuber size. When used at higher rates and applied later, average residues reached 110 ppb. These residues did not include 2, 4-D bound to plant metabolites. In a single test, hydrolysis with aqueous acid resulted in a two to seven fold increase in 2, 4-D residues, suggesting a considerable portion of the 2, 4-D becomes combined with plant metabolites. Apparent respiration in storage of tubers from plants treated with 2, 4-D averaged 11% higher than tubers from plants not sprayed, but this was not great enough to be significant. Tubers of the same specific gravity from unsprayed plants and those sprayed with recommended rates of 2, 4-D were similar in texture.
In vitro transcripts from the rrn B ribosomal RNA cistron originate from two tandem promoters

Abstract The functional structure of the promoter region of a bacterial ribosomal operon is analyzed by in vitro transcription of linear DNA fragments derived from the hybrid Col El plasmid pGG1. This plasmid contains the promoter region of the rrn B ribosomal cistron present in the λ rif d18. When transcripts arising from this promoter region are terminated by restriction endonuclease cleavage of DNA, two RNA chains are resolved by gel electrophoresis that differ in length by about 100 bases. Evidence is presented indicating that these two transcripts arise from different initiation sites, each directing tandem transcription of the sense strand of the early portion of the ribosomal cistron.
An acoustic model of diffusion in gases [1]

Principles of macroscopic acoustical theory are applied to the calculation of the friction constant of a dilute gas of rigid spheres. In the model molecular motions are perturbed by acoustic disturbances arising from the occurrence of density fluctuations in the equilibrium fluid. The friction constant calculated is found to have the same parametric form but a substantially lower numerical coefficient when compared with the result of Chapman and Enskog.
An O(n log n) Heuristic for Steiner Minimal Tree Problems on the Euclidean Metric

An O(n log n) heuristic for the Euclidean Steiner Minimal Tree (ESMT) problem is presented. The algorithm is based on a decomposition approach which first partitions the vertex set into triangles via the Delaunay triangulation, then “recomposes” the suboptimal Steiner Minimal Tree (SMT) according to the Voronoi diagram and Minimum Spanning Tree (MST) of the point set. The ESMT algorithm was implemented in FORTRAN-IV and tested on a number of randomly generated point sets in the plane drawn from a uniform distribution. Comparison of the O(n log n) algorithm with an O(n4) algorithm clearly indicates that the O(n log n) algorithm is as good as the previous O(n4) algorithm in achieving reductions in the ratio SMT/MST of the given vertex set. This is somewhat surprising since the O(n4) algorithm considers more potential Steiner points and alternative tree configurations.
Crystallographic Anisotropy in Compression of Uranium Metal to 100 GPa

New high-pressure x-ray diffraction data on uranium metal (99.9 %) in a diamond anvil cell is presented to 100 GPa (Volume compression V/Vo = 0.700) at room temperature using a variety of pressure markers like ruby, copper, and platinum. The diffraction patterns are carefully indexed allowing for reversal of peak positions based on anisotropic compression. We report anisotropic compression of the orthorhombic unit cell with the axial ratio b/a increasing initially to 40 GPa followed by a rapid decrease at higher pressure. On the other hand, axial ratio c/a shows a rapid increase with increasing pressure followed by saturation at megabar pressures. The most recent full potential electronic structure calculations reproduce the increasing tend of axial ratio c/a to 100 GPa but do not explain the variation in the b/a ratio. Our detailed analysis of all available experimental data also indicates that the observed anisotropic effects are intrinsic to Uranium and are independent of the pressure medium used in the high-pressure experiments.
Rheumatoid arthritis: review of searches for an infectious cause. Part II.

Bisher hat sich aus der Masse von angesammelten Befunden kein spezifisches Muster ergeben, das als allgemein gultige Hypothese der Atiologie der Rheumatoiden Arthritis dienen konnte. Eine Anzahl immunologischer Anomalien wurde beschrieben, ohne das ein immunologischer Schlusseldefekt hatte erkannt werden konnen, der die verschiedenen Anteile der Immunantwort zu einem passenden Muster zusammenfugen konnte. Die Moglichkeit eines anhaltenden, von einer Infektion ausgehenden Antigen-Stimulus kann weder bestatigt noch widerlegt werden. Falls ein Virus beteiligt ist, durfte es wahrscheinlicher ein „slow virus“ sein als eine allgemein bekannte Form, doch ist bisher kein ernsthafter Vertreter dieses Typs in Aussicht. Trotz der Tatsache, das Mykoplasmen zweifellos bei anderen Species arthritogen wirken, ist ihre Rolle als atiologisches Agens der Rheumatoiden Arthritis nicht belegt worden. Die Vorstellung, das das Peptidoglykan der Bakterienzellwand einen Dauerstimulus darstellen konnte, hat viel fur sich, aber bei dem jetzigen Stand der Dinge ist es nicht moglich, das Peptidoglykan als einen gesicherten atiologischen Faktor anzuerkennen. Diese Vermutung wird jedoch zweifellos viel Anregung fur weitere Forschungen bringen.
Advance directives in cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation patients.

PURPOSE Advance directives have been available in parts of the United States for more than 20 years, but research shows that only a small percentage of adults (5-25%) have some form of written advance directive. The purose of this study was to examine the presence of advance directives among persons entering cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation, and identify characteristics of persons most likely to have advance directives. METHODS The sample consisted of 336 cardiac patients and 181 pulmonary patients who enrolled in the University of Alabama at Birmingham's Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Program between January 1996 and December 1999. As part of the initial program assessment, patients were asked two questions: (1) Do you have a living will? (2) Do you have any advance directives? For the purposes of this study, the two questions were combined to examine the presence of either a living will or other type of advance directive. RESULTS Results indicate that 25% of both subgroups (cardiac and pulmonary patients) report having written advance directives. Logistic regression analysis indicates that among cardiac patients whites and older persons were more likely to have advance directives. Among pulmonary patients, females and whites were more likely to have advance directives. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that only a minority of cardiopulmonary rehabilitation patients have advance directives upon entry into the program, and that the prevalence differs among gender, racial, and age groups. Cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation programs may be valuable sites for educating patients about advance directives and efforts by rehabilitation personnel may increase the prevalence of advance directives among patients.
Prostaglandin E2 inhibition of sodium transport in the freshwater mussel

Ligumia subrostrata (Say) will maintain a steady state for Na when acclimated to an artificial pondwater. Prostaglandin E2 (0.6 μM/g dry tissue) injected into the blood cause an 80% reduction of Na influx and the animals experience a net loss of Na. Injections of indomethacin (0.1 μM/g dry tissue), a prostaglandin synthetase inhibitor, cause a doubling of Na influx relative to control animals. Prostaglandin-like material can be extracted from the blood of L. subrostrata and may be a component of the endocrine control of ion regulation in freshwater bivalves.
Genetic Engineering of Self-Assembled Protein Hydrogel Based on Elastin-like Sequences with Metal Binding Functionality

Recombinant DNA methods have been exploited to enable the creation of protein-based block copolymers with programmable sequences, desired properties, and predictable three-dimensional structures. These advantages over conventional polymer counterparts facilitate the utility of this new class of biomaterials in a wide range of applications. In this project, we exploited the environmental application of protein-based block copolymers based on elastin-like protein (ELP) sequences. Triblock copolymers containing charged and hydrophobic segments were synthesized. Chain lengths of each segment were manipulated in order to maintain a gelation point below room temperature. Polyhistidine sequences were successfully incorporated into the hydrophilic segment without disruption of the self-assembled hydrogel formation. The microscopic structure was further investigated using laser confocal microscopy. The metal binding capability and capacity of resulting hydrogel were studied to demonstrate the functionality of polyhistidine and its environmental application for heavy metal removal. Reversibility of metal binding was demonstrated, indicating the cost-effectiveness of this hydrogel. Significantly, we envision that this versatile strategy of incorporating functional groups within a 3-D protein network provides new possibilities in creation of biomaterials with great control over structure-property relationships.
Relation between nerve fiber number and pectoral fin regeneration in the teleost.

The number of nerve fibers per unit of amputation surface area has been determined in four teleosts capable of regenerating their fins (Gobius paganellus, Gobius minutus, Ictalurus nebulosus and Fundulus heteroclitus) and in two non-regenerating ones (Cottus bubalis and Blennius pholis.) The number of nerve fibers is about 16 in the non-regenerating fins and varies between 25 and 35 in the regenerating ones. These data, correlated with previous ones obtained on tetrapods, affirm the principle that there is a phylogenetic decline in the quantitative innervation of the vertebrate appendage. Moreover, they show that in the fish a quantitative neuronal threshold must also be satisfied in order for fin regeneration to occur. The threshold, in terms of fiber number, is higher than in the urodele amphibian. However, the fibers appear to be of smaller caliber; and so, the total amount of neuroplasm at the amputation surface which is required for regeneration may be similar to that for the amphibian.
Small arms, big guns: a dynamic model of illicit market opportunity

Transnational illicit markets are deeply embedded within legal trade systems and thus should be affected by shifting market conditions. Applying a stochastic actor-oriented model (SAOM), this study tests whether variation in illicit market opportunity could account for changing relations within the small arms trade (2003–2008). Measures of market accessibility – changes in export activity, reporting transparency and the percent of the labour force that is armed – outperformed measures of weapon availability with the exception of involvement in armed conflict. Significant structural change in outdegree density and transitivity suggest the development of trade factions, and decreasing balance hints that leaders are emerging. With the pending de-escalation of US-led conflict in the Middle East, a flood of second-hand weaponry is about to enter the market. Continued research is required to further uncover how the legitimate trade infrastructure facilitates the illicit flow of goods.
How does building arguments relate to the development of understanding

Abstract In mathematics, for professionals, the most compelling way to back a statement is to prove it. This could even be true, as recent research indicates, for 9-year-olds (or for even younger learners), given appropriate conditions in the early grades. In this article, based on data drawn from the three preceding papers, I explore some ways in which the building of an argument can emerge in step with the development of understanding.
Elevated body mass in National Football League players linked to cognitive impairment and decreased prefrontal cortex and temporal pole activity

Obesity is a risk factor for neurodegenerative disease and has been shown to adversely affect cognitive function. Professional athletes who participate in sports, which expose them to repetitive concussions, may be at heightened risk for cognitive impairment. Here, we investigated the effects of body mass as measured by waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) on regional cerebral blood flow using single-photon emission computed tomography imaging in 38 healthy weight (WHtR mean 49.34±2.8; age 58±9.6) and 38 overweight (WHtR mean 58.7±4.7; age 58±13.3) retired National Football League football players. After matching for age and position, we used a two sample t-test to determine the differences in blood flow in healthy versus overweight subjects. Statistical parametric mapping revealed a higher WHtR ratio is associated with decreased blood flow in Brodmann areas 8, 9 and 10, brain regions involved in attention, reasoning and executive function (P<0.05, family-wise error) along with deficits in the temporal pole. Moreover, overweight athletes had significant decrease in attention (P=0.01326), general cognitive proficiency (P=0.012; Microcog: Assessment of Cognitive Functioning) and memory (P=0.005; Mild Cognitive Impairment Screen). The association between elevated WHtR percentage and decreased blood flow in the prefrontal cortex and temporal pole may be correlated with the decreased performance on tests of attention and memory. These findings suggest that a weight management program may be critical to the health of athletes who have been exposed to mild brain trauma during their careers.
An analysis of self-reported sexual behavior in a sample of normal males

Ninety-eight presumably normal London men, age 20–35 and sexually active in a stable relationship, responded to an invitation at their work place to participate in a detailed sexuality interview. The interview was developed by a group of WHO collaborators to measure possible effects on sexual functioning resulting from various medical regimens (for example, a male contraceptive pill). It assessed frequency of coitus and masturbation during the previous 4 weeks, a variety of subjective ratings of sexual interest, satisfaction, and quality of relationships, as well as reports of the nature and incidence of various sexual problems. The study sample's responses displayed internal consistency and in general supported the inference that the sample was not atypical. The data appear to support Westoff's (1974) notion that the frequency of coitus has increased since the early normative reports by Kinsey et al.(1948). Most importantly, the results of principal components analyses point to the fact that overall sexual drive or “libido” (e.g., frequency of sexual behavior) is independent of several other possibly significant dimensions, including latency to orgasm, quality of sexual experience, autoeroticism, and the incidence of erectile difficulties. It is concluded that the sexuality interview provides potentially useful baseline data against which to evaluate effects of sexual therapy or drug regimens.
Dialysis-associated seizures in children and adolescents

A retrospective medical chart review was conducted to document seizure occurrence in 180 children and adolescents (newborn to 22 years of age) receiving hemodialysis (HD) and/or peritoneal dialysis (PD) from January 1974 through June 1988 at Children's Hospital and Medical Center in Seattle, Washington. The purpose of the review was to identify risk factors associated with seizure activity during or up to 24 h following dialysis treatment. Seventy-eight patients received only HD, 79 received only PD and 23 received both HD and PD. Dialysis-associated seizures (DAS) were seen in 7.2% (13/180) of all dialyzed patients; 12 occurred during HD and 1 occurred during PD. Patients receiving only HD were more likely to experience DAS (7/78, 9%), than patients receiving only PD (0/79, 0%) (chi-squared = 5.5, 1 df, P = 0.02). Among the 101 patients who received HD, the risk of HD-associated seizures among those with a prior history of seizure (6/21, 29%) was significantly higher than among those with no history of seizure (6/80, 8%) (chi-squared = 5.2, 1 df, P = 0.02). Prior history of seizure did not influence the risk of seizures among patients receiving PD. These data suggest that patients receiving HD, and especially those with a prior history of seizure, should be monitored closely during dialysis and measures taken to reduce the risk of seizures.
Reinstituting Oral Feeding in Tube-Fed Adult Patients With Dysphagia

Feeding tubes are valuable assets in the rehabilitation of adult patients with dysphagia. Feeding tubes may be placed in response to perceived risks of airway compromise or insufficient nutrient intake. However, not all patients require long-term enteral feeding. With intensive dysphagia therapy, many patients will experience resolving deficits or improvement in swallowing ability. These patients require an appropriate strategy to transition from tube to oral feeding. This article reviews some of the basic characteristics of dysphagia and identifies specific swallowing difficulties in 2 groups of patients who often benefit from temporary enteral feeding: stroke survivors and patients treated for head and neck cancer. Specific suggestions are offered for clinical strategies to reinstitute oral feeding in these groups of tube-fed patients.
Fabrication and Characterization of SiOx/Parylene and SiNx/Parylene Thin Film Encapsulation Layers

Successful commercialization of flexible organic electronic devices is largely dependent on proper encapsulation that protects them from permeation of oxygen and water vapor. At present, low permeation encapsulation materials generally consist of multilayer films of organic/inorganic materials which can be deposited by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD), atomic layer deposition (ALD), and vapor phase deposition. For this study, we report the effective water vapor transmission rates (WVTR) for multilayer thin films consisting of low temperature PECVD deposited SiNx and SiOx combined with a parylene organic layer. The effective WVTR was measured as a function of the number of bilayer pairs using Ca corrosion tests. The effective WVTR at 20 °C and 50% relative humidity [RH] for three bilayer pairs of SiOx/parylene ranged between 4.4–8.0 × 10−4 g/m2 /day while SiNx/parylene had a transmission rate 1.3×10−4 g/m2 /day. In general, additional layers were found to decrease the permeation rates to as low as 3.9×10−5 g/m2 /day, while the SiNx/parylene coatings performed the best overall.© 2007 ASME
Macrocyclic complexes of lanthanides in identical ligand frameworks Part 2. Synthesis of lanthanide(III) and yttrium(III) complexes of an 18-membered hexaaza macrocycle☆

Abstract Lanthanide(III) and yttrium(III) complexes of the 18-membered hexaaza Schiff base macrocycle 2,11,17,26,31,32-hexaazapentacyclo-[26.2.1.112.16,04.9,019.24]dotriaconta-1(31),2,4,6,8,10,12,14,16(32),17,19,21,23,25,27,29-hexadecaene (L6) have been synthesized by the metal template condensation of phthalic dicarboxaldehyde and 2,6-diaminopyridine. Discrete mononuclear complexes [La(L6)(NO3)2(H2O)]NO3·2H2O, [Dy(L6)(NO3)2(H2O)2]NO3·H2O, [Ln(L6)(NO3)(OH)]NO3·nH2O (Ln = Pr3+, Nd3+, Eu3+; n = 2 for Pr3+, Nd3+, 3 for Eu3+), [Ln(L6)(NO3)2]NO3·4H2O (Ln = Tb3+, Y3+) and [Ln(L6)(NO3)(H2O)(OH)]NO3·nH2O (Ln = Sm3+, Gd3+; n = 2 for Sm3+, 3 for Gd3+) have been synthesized by using the respective hydrated metal nitrate as the template. The lanthanum(III) complex [La(L6)Cl3(C2H5OH)]·H2O has been synthesized by using LaCl3·7H2O. The metal ion is bound to the macrocycle, to one or two bidentate chelating nitrates, and to one or two water molecules and/or a hydroxide ion. Only the lighter lanthanide(III) cations (LaDy, except Ce and Pm) serve as effective templates in the assembly of L6. The lanthanide(III) complexes of L6 are quite stable in the solid state and are inert to the release of metal ions in DMF. The coordinated exocyclic ligands are labile and undergo anion metathesis. The complexes are thermally stable and the macrocyclic entity remains intact with the metal ions up to 388 °C. The template potential of the lanthanide(III) cations of various sizes in the assembly of L6 is due to the flexibility of the macrocycle to adapt to the geometrical requirements of the metal ions and to the steric demands of the exocyclic ligands. The essential requisite to synthesize lanthanide(III) complexes in the same macrocyclic ligand framework is the ability of the macrocycle to coordinate in a conformation favorable for the central metal ion and for the coordination of exocyclic ligands.
Nuclear backscattering analysis of Nb-Nb 2 O 5 -Bi structure

The technique of nuclear backscattering has been used to analyze the interface reactions of Nb-Nb2O5-Bi multilayer films. This new analytical technique is explained in detail. It has been concluded that the drastic and erratic changes in the electrical properties of niobium oxide switchable resistor devices that take place at 450°C are associated with the gross migration of oxygen from the oxide to the niobium layer. The accompanying reactions of bismuth with the oxide are relatively moderate, diffusing less than 3 × 1011 atoms/cm2 of bismuth into the oxide layer.
Correlation of immunohistochemical expression of p53 with unamplified chromosome 17 polysomy in invasive breast carcinoma

p53 functions as a tumor suppressor gene and is frequently mutated and inactivated in several human cancers. Some studies have shown p53 overexpression in breast cancer to be an independent prognostic indicator. A subset of breast cancers have chromosome 17 polysomy. Although p53 immunostaining has
Avian heterophils in inflammation and disease resistance

Abstract Heterophils are the predominate granulated leukocyte in the acute inflammatory response in gallinaceous birds. Heterophils are highly phagocytic and are capable of a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity. They accumulate in inflamed tissue, causing tissue damage and forming heterophil granulomas that are morphologically similar to inflammatory lesions in reptiles. The avian heterophil lacks myeloperoxidase and depends primarily on nonoxidative mechanisms for antimicrobial activity. The beta-defensins found in heterophil granules can kill a wide variety of bacterial pathogens and are a major component of the heterophil antimicrobial arsenal. Heterophils form the first line of cellular defense against invading microbial pathogens in the lungs and air sacs where resident macrophages are lacking.
Stochastic Price-Based Coordination of Intrahour Wind Energy and Storage in a Generation Company

This paper develops a day-ahead price-based scheduling strategy for the coordination of wind and storage units in a generating company (GENCO). The proposed strategy is based on the stochastic price-based unit commitment (PBUC) for the scheduling of wind energy and storage units, which considers volatilities in day-ahead intrahour market prices and wind power generation. The proposed approach firms up the hourly sum of wind and storage unit generation, and mitigates potential wind energy imbalance charges for participating GENCOs in electricity markets. Although the proposed approach would apply to any kind of storage, we consider the pumped-storage (PS) hydro unit as an example in this study. Numerical examples illustrate a GENCO's day-ahead coordinated scheduling results for wind and PS units.
Lack of sustained clinical improvement in an elderly population after percutaneous aortic valvuloplasty

Abstract The hemodynamic and clinical results following 25 percutaneous aortic valvuloplasty (PAV) procedures on 24 patients are reported. The mean aortic gradient decreased from 66 ± 23 to 40 ± 15 mm Hg (p
No difference in outcome at 4 years between surgical and non-surgical endodontic retreatment

No difference in outcome at 4 years between surgical and non-surgical endodontic retreatment
A charged view of voltage-gated ion channels

Propagation of electrical signals by nerve cells relies on voltage-sensing ion channel proteins residing in the neuronal membrane. The first structure of a channel of this type dramatically overturns conventional wisdom about how these 'biomolecular transistors' work.
Proteolytic conversion of xanthine dehydrogenase to xanthine oxidase: Evidence against a role for calcium-activated protease (calpain)

The present study tested the hypothesis that calpain is responsible for the limited proteolytic conversion of xanthine dehydrogenase (XD) to xanthine oxidase (XO). We compared the effects of various proteases on the activity and molecular weight of a purified preparation of xanthine dehydrogenase from rat liver. In agreement with previous reports, trypsin treatment produced a complete conversion of XD to XO accompanied by a limited proteolysis of XDH from an Mr of 140 kD to an Mr of 90 kD. Treatment with calpain I or calpain II did not produce a conversion from XD to XO nor did it result in partial proteolysis of the enzyme. Similarly, trypsin treatment partially degraded a reversibly oxidized form of xanthine dehydrogenase while calpain I or calpain II were ineffective. The possibility that an endogenous inhibitor prevented the proteolysis of XDH by calpain I or II was excluded by verifying that brain spectrin, a known calpain substrate, was degraded under the same incubation conditions. The results indicate that calpain is not likely to be responsible for the in vivo conversion of XD to XO under pathological conditions.
Effects of social and token reinforcement on WISC block design performance.

Amounts of accuracy and speed gain in WISC Block Design performance under 3 treatments (control, social reinforcement, or token reinforcement) were tested with 48 fourth graders of average ability, equally divided as to sex, who were matched by pretest performance on these variables. Boys showed significant gains in accuracy only under token reinforcement and significant speed gains only under social reinforcement (Ps < .05), while girls showed significant gains in accuracy under all three treatments (Ps < .05) but also speed losses under all treatments (Ps < .05). Girls showed significantly greater gains in accuracy than boys under social reinforcement, while boys showed significantly greater speed gains than girls under social reinforcement (Ps < .05).
Study of K−π− scattering using the reaction K−d → K−π−pps

Abstract Approximately 700 events of the reaction K−d → K−π−pps produced by 5.5 GeV/c kaons were used to measure the cross section for Kπ elastic scattering in the T = 3 2 state by a Chew-Low extrapolation. The cross section does not exceed 2.1 mb and has no structure for Kπ masses from threshold up to 2.0 GeV.
Screening complex hazardous wastes for mutagenic activity using a modified version of the TLC/Salmonella assay

Abstract 10 complex hazardous wastes were tested for mutagenic activity using a modified version of the TLC/Salmonella assay developed by Bjorseth et al. (1982). This fractionation/bioassay scheme couples thin-layer chromatography (TLC) with the Salmonella/mammalian-microsome (Ames) assay for the detection of mutagenic constituents in complex mixtures. Crude (unadulterated) hazardous wastes and selected hazardous waste extracts were fractionated on commercially available cellulose TLC plates. Mutagenicity testing was performed in situ by applying a single overlay of minimal growth agar, tester strain TA98 or TA100, and the optional metabolic activation system directly onto the developed chromatogram. A mutagenic effect was indicated either by the appearance of localized clusters of revertant colonies or by an increase in total revertant growth vis-a-vis control plates. 7 of 10 hazardous wastes (including tars, emulsions, sludges, and spent acids and caustics) demonstrated mutagenic activity when tested by this method. To assess the sensitivity of the modified TLC/Salmonella assay, 14 Salmonella mutagens from a wide range of chemical classes and polarities were tested. Selected compounds included heterocyclics, aromatic amines, alkylating agents, antitumor agents, a nitrosamine and a nitroaromatic, 11 of the 14 mutagens were positive in this test system. The 3 compounds refractory to analysis included a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon and two volatiles.
The contrast-to-noise in relaxation time, synthetic, and weighted-sum MR images

The contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) in three types of computed MR images is compared in a computer simulation. The original data consist of two spin-echo or two saturationrecovery images. Each pair of images is used to generate a relaxation time image, a synthetic image at arbitrary echo or repetition time, and an image which is a weighted sum of the original images. The CNR produced by these three methods is compared for signals spanning a wide range of relaxation times. In every comparison an optimally weighted sum produces the highest CNR that is statistically attainable. The CNR in the optimum synthetic image equals this bound only if contrast reversal does not occur in the original images. The CNR in relaxation time images is always less than the statistical bound and can be less than the CNR in the original images. © 1987 Academic Press, Inc.
COMPARATIVE ANATOMY AND SYSTEMATICS OF SENGHAS'S CUSHION SPECIES OF MAXILLARIA (ORCHIDACEAE)

Abstract Using data obtained through anatomy and morphology, we used cladistics to examine the monophyly of Senghas's proposed classification of Maxillaria cushion plants and his placement of Mormolyca ringens. Trigonidium obtusum was chosen as the outgroup. Leaves have multicellular hairs sunken in crypts, primarily anomocytic or primarily tetracytic stomatal apparatuses, homogeneous mesophyll, and scattered fibre bundles. Three types of adaxial hypodermis were observed: (1) water-storage cells, (2) fibre bundles scattered among water-storage cells, and (3) fibre bundles scattered among chlorenchymatous cells. Abaxial hypodermis of fibre bundles occurs in several Maxillaria species and in Trigonidium obtusum. At the midvein of the leaf, adaxial mesophyll cells of most species are anticlinally extended and empty, and the abaxial mesophyll is usually collenchymatous. Vascular bundles are collateral and usually in a single series. Pseudobulb epidermal cell walls are thin, or outer walls are thickened. Ground tissue consists of water-storage and assimilatory cells with vascular bundles and associated lacunae scattered throughout. Roots are velamentous and exodermal cell walls are usually ∏-thickened with tenuous bands of scalariform thickenings on longitudinal walls. Tilosomes may be plaited, baculate, or spongy. Endodermal cell walls are usually ∑-thickened and pericycle cell walls are usually O-thickened opposite phloem sectors. Stegmata line the periphery of the thickened pericycle cells opposite phloem sectors in M. picta. Pith may be parenchymatous or sclerenchymatous. According to our phylogenetic analysis, Mormolyca ringens is consistently nested within the cladistic structure of Maxillaria. Therefore, Maxillaria likely is paraphyletic if Mormolyca ringens is recognized as generically distinct. It appears that Senghas's subgroup divisions of the unifoliate pseudobulbous maxillarias may also be artificial.
Contested commemorations: republican war veterans and Weimar political culture

One of the Weimar Republic's greatest failures was its inability to construct a collective, national site of mourning for the victims of the Great War, the catastrophe that cast such a long shadow ...
RF Processing of Thermoset and Thermoplastic Composites

Graphite fiber-thermoset epoxy resin composite materials are frequently used in aerospace and related industries. Electromagnetic heating may have some advantages over the present autoclave techniques, especially for large objects. However, the loss factor of graphite composites at microwave frequencies (915 MHz and 2.45 GHz) is so high that the depth of penetration is no more than about 0.1 mm. Arcing may be encountered at high heating rates due to strong transverse E-fields. Also, since the curing process is exothermic and the surface is at elevated temperature, thermal runaway may be encountered in the interior spaces and result in over-cured (thermally damaged) material. We have investigated the heating obtained at radio frequency (nominal 27 MHz) in magnetic induction fields in both experiments and numerical models. Inductive coupling has the advantage that arcing is virtually eliminated, even at high heating rates, for typical cylindrical geometries. Also, induction heating easily accomplishes lap seam welds in thermoplastic composites owing to favorable electric field boundary conditions. Transient temperatures were recorded during heating by optical fiber probes and heating distribution was measured, where possible, using thermographic imaging. Finite difference electrical and thermal model results illustrate the dominance of conduction heat transfer in these materials.
Identification and functional analysis of CT069 as a novel transcriptional regulator in Chlamydia

Only a small number of transcription factors have been predicted in Chlamydia spp., which are obligate intracellular bacteria that include a number of important human pathogens. We used a bioinformatics strategy to identify novel transcriptional regulators from the Chlamydia trachomatis genome by predicting proteins with the general structure and characteristic functional domains of a bacterial transcription factor. With this approach, we identified CT069 as a candidate transcription factor with sequence similarity at its C terminus to Treponema pallidum TroR. Like TroR, the gene for CT069 belongs to an operon that encodes components of a putative ABC transporter for importing divalent metal cations. However, CT069 has been annotated as YtgC because of sequence similarity at its N terminus to TroC, a transmembrane component of this metal ion transporter. Instead, CT069 appears to be a fusion protein composed of YtgC and a TroR ortholog that we have called YtgR. Although it has not been previously reported, a similar YtgC-YtgR fusion protein is predicted to be encoded by other Chlamydia spp. and several other bacteria, including Bacillus subtilis. We show that recombinant YtgR polypeptide bound specifically to an operator sequence upstream of the ytg operon and that binding was enhanced by Zn(2+). We also demonstrate that YtgR repressed transcription from the ytg promoter in a heterologous in vivo reporter assay. These results provide evidence that CT069 is a negative regulator of the ytg operon, which encodes a putative metal ion transporter in C. trachomatis.
Evaluation of Lane Departure Warnings for Drowsy Drivers

Lane departure warning (LDW) is a driver warning system designed to reduce the number of unintended lane departures. We addressed warning effectiveness and customer acceptance when the unintended lane departures are the result of drowsy driving. Thirty-two adults who were sleep deprived for 23 hours participated in the study and drove Ford's VIRTTEX driving simulator. Four Human Machine Interfaces (HMI) for LDW were evaluated: Steering Wheel Torque, Rumble Strip Sound, Steering Wheel Vibration and Head Up Display. A yaw deviation technique was used to produce controlled lane departures in the first two hours of the drive while for the last 20 minutes driver-initiated lane departures were analyzed. The Steering Wheel Vibration HMI, accompanied by Steering Wheel Torque, was found to be the most effective HMI for LDW in a group of drowsy drivers, with faster reaction times and smaller lane excursions. The Vibration HMI was also perceived by the drowsy drivers to be acceptable and helpful.
Rubella arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis

Fourteen cases of rubella arthritis were followed between 2 and 5 years after the attack. All were women. None showed any clinical manifestation suggesting rheumatoid disease over this follow-up period nor was there a positive reactor using the englobulin sensitized sheep cell agglutination method. One patient, the daughter of a rheumatoid patient, was, and still is, positive by the englobulin inhibition reaction. The authors conclude that there is no relationship between the two diseases. Dece-quatro casos de arthritis a rubella esseva observate durante periodos de inter duo e cinque annos post le attacco. Omne le patientes esseva feminas. Nulle monstrava ulle manifestation clinic indicative de morbo rheumatic durante le period de observation, e nulle habeva un reaction positive in le test de agglutination de euglobulino-sensibilisate erythrocytos ovin. Un del subjectos, filia de un patiente rheumatoide, esseva e continua esser positive in le reaction de inhibition de euglobina. Le autores conclude que nulle relation existe inter le duo morbos.
Perceptual variation and access to colors

To identify the set of reflectances that constitute redness, the authors must first determine which surfaces are red. They do this by relying on widespread agreement among us. However, arguments based on the possible ways in which humans would perceive colors show that mere widespread agreement among us is not a satisfactory way to determine which surfaces are red.
Improving physical functional and quality of life in older adults with multiple sclerosis via a DVD-delivered exercise intervention: a study protocol

Introduction: There is a need to identify innovative, low-cost and broad-reaching strategies for promoting exercise and improving physical function in older adults with multiple sclerosis (MS). Methods and analysis: This randomised controlled pilot trial will test the efficacy of a 6-month, DVDdelivered exercise intervention to improve functional performance and quality of life in older adults with MS. Participants will be randomised either into a DVDdelivered exercise condition or an attentional control condition. This novel approach to programme delivery provides participants with detailed exercise instructions which are presented in a progressive manner and includes a variety of modifications to better meet varying levels of physical abilities. The targeted exercises focus on three critical elements of functional fitness: flexibility, strength and balance. It is hypothesised that participants who are randomised to the exercise DVD condition will demonstrate improvements in physical function compared with participants assigned to the attentional control condition. Data analysis will include a 2 (condition)×2 (time) mixed factor analysis of variance (ANOVA) that follows intent-to-treat principles, as well as an examination of effect sizes. Participants will take part in qualitative interviews about perspectives on physical activity and programme participation. Ethics and dissemination: The study protocol was approved by a university institutional review board and registered with a federal database. Participants will be asked to read and sign a detailed informed consent document and will be required to provide a physician’s approval to participate in the study. The exercise DVDs include an overview of safety-related concerns and recommendations relative to exercise participation, as well as detailed instructions highlighting the proper execution of each exercise presented on screen. Following completion of this trial, data will be immediately analysed and results will be presented at scientific meetings and published in scholarly journals.
Quartic Interband Exciton Couplings in Pump-Probe Spectroscopy of Light Harvesting Complexes †

The standard Frenkel exciton Hamiltonian for molecular aggregates only contains quadratic (intraband) couplings between chromophores. However, interband interactions between chromophores whose excitation frequences are well separated are dominated by quartic couplings. We show that the latter are responsible for spectral line shifts of the Carotenoids observed in pump−probe experiments of LH2 photosynthetic antenna following excitation of the chrolophylls (Herek; et al., Biochemistry 1998, 37, 7057).
The Society for Vascular Surgery lower extremity threatened limb classification system based on Wound, Ischemia, and foot Infection (WIfI) correlates with risk of major amputation and time to wound healing

Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether the new Society for Vascular Surgery (SVS) Wound, Ischemia, and foot Infection (WIfI) classification system correlates with important clinical outcomes for limb salvage and wound healing. Methods A total of 201 consecutive patients with threatened limbs treated from 2010 to 2011 in an academic medical center were analyzed. These patients were stratified into clinical stages 1 to 4 on the basis of the SVS WIfI classification. The SVS objective performance goals of major amputation, 1-year amputation-free survival (AFS) rate, and wound healing time (WHT) according to WIfI clinical stages were compared. Results The mean age was 58 years (79% male, 93% with diabetes). Forty-two patients required major amputation (21%); 159 (78%) had limb salvage. The amputation group had a significantly higher prevalence of advanced stage 4 patients ( P P P P P = .008). Conclusions These data support the underlying concept of the SVS WIfI, that an appropriate classification system correlates with important clinical outcomes for limb salvage and wound healing. As the clinical stage progresses, the risk of major amputation increases, 1-year AFS declines, and WHT is prolonged. We further demonstrated benefit of revascularization to improve WHT in selected patients, especially those in stage 3. Future efforts are warranted to incorporate the SVS WIfI classification into clinical decision-making algorithms in conjunction with a comorbidity index and anatomic classification.