cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Loss of synergistic transcriptional feedback loops drives diverse B-cell cancers.

Abstract Background The most common B-cell cancers, chronic lymphocytic leukemia/lymphoma (CLL), follicular and diffuse large B-cell (FL, DLBCL) lymphomas, have distinct clinical courses, yet overlapping “cell-of-origin”. Dynamic changes to the epigenome are essential regulators of B-cell differentiation. Therefore, we reasoned that these distinct cancers may be driven by shared mechanisms of disruption in transcriptional circuitry. Methods We compared purified malignant B-cells from 52 patients with normal B-cell subsets (germinal center centrocytes and centroblasts, naive and memory B-cells) from 36 donor tonsils using >325 high-resolution molecular profiling assays for histone modifications, open chromatin (ChIP-, FAIRE-seq), transcriptome (RNA-seq), transcription factor (TF) binding, and genome copy number (microarrays). Findings From the resulting data, we identified gains in active chromatin in enhancers/super-enhancers that likely promote unchecked B-cell receptor signaling, including one we validated near the immunoglobulin superfamily receptors FCMR and PIGR. More striking and pervasive was the profound loss of key B-cell identity TFs, tumor suppressors and their super-enhancers, including EBF1, OCT2(POU2F2), and RUNX3. Using a novel approach to identify transcriptional feedback, we showed that these core transcriptional circuitries are self-regulating. Their selective gain and loss form a complex, iterative, and interactive process that likely curbs B-cell maturation and spurs proliferation. Interpretation Our study is the first to map the transcriptional circuitry of the most common blood cancers. We demonstrate that a critical subset of B-cell TFs and their cognate enhancers form self-regulatory transcriptional feedback loops whose disruption is a shared mechanism underlying these diverse subtypes of B-cell lymphoma. Funding National Institute of Health, Siteman Cancer Center, Barnes-Jewish Hospital Foundation, Doris Duke Foundation.
Common Clinical Conditions of the Shoulder

The shoulder provides a greater range of motion than any other joint in the human body. Shoulder function is necessary to position the hand in space. The shoulder is therefore necessary for nearly all activities of daily living. Injuries or disorders of the shoulder cause significant impairment in both work and recreational activities. Disorders of the shoulder may be caused by chronic overuse or the result of a single traumatic event. Shoulder pathology may affect nearly all ages and activity levels, although certain disorders are more common in certain populations. The successful treatment of these disorders allows relief of pain and return to function for this variable group of patients. This chapter aims to describe the basic etiology, presentation, and treatment of the most common shoulder disorders encountered in daily orthopedic practice.
An analysis of East Asian coins excavated in Tucson, Arizona

The Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese low denomination coins from late 19th and early 20th century archaeological deposits in Tucson, Arizona, are analyzed. Many authors have suggested the recovery of East Asian coins in frontier American sites provides evidence of their use as currency within Asian ethnic communities. Evidence for such utilization is discussed along with the contention that latrines may provide the most readily accessible corroborative data.
The International Clearinghouse for Birth Defects Monitoring Systems: Past, present and future

The International Clearinghouse for Birth Defects Monitoring Systems (ICBDMS), founded in 1974, is an organization devoted to the prevention of birth defects. A major activity of member programs is the monitoring of rates of birth defects, searching for changes that might herald the introduction of a new teratogen into the environment. The primary purpose of the ICBDMS is to provide a forum for member programs to share information. This sharing is done through regular quarterly and annual reports of data, at annual meetings, and through informal contacts of the staff of member programs. In 1988, the ICBDMS established an International Centre for Birth Defects (ICBD) at the University of Bergen, generous financial support is being provided by the Norwegian government. The Centre is to function as a "headquarters" for the Clearinghouse, promoting and facilitating its activities. It will establish a focus for collaborative epidemiologic research on birth defects, promote improvements in birth defects monitoring, and provide a setting for training.
On the nature of problems

This paper is an attempt at clarifying the concept of “problem”, and originates from a concern for improving the teaching of problem solving.
Biological activity of all-trans retinol requires metabolic conversion to all-trans retinoic acid and is mediated through activation of nuclear retinoid receptors in human keratinocytes

The biological activity of all-trans retinol, in human keratinocytes, was investigated through metabolic and functional analyses that assessed the capacity for retinol uptake and metabolism and the mechanism of retinol-induced activation of gene transcription. Human keratinocytes converted all-trans retinol predominantly to retinyl esters, which accounted for 60 and 90% of cell-associated radiolabel after a 90-min pulse and a 48-h chase, respectively. Human keratinocytes also metabolized all-trans retinol to low levels of all-trans retinoic acid (11.47-131.3 ng/mg of protein) in a dose-dependent manner, between 0.3 and 10 microM added retinol. Small amounts of 13-cis retinoic acid (5.47-8.62 ng/mg of protein) were detected, but 9-cis retinoic acid was detected only when keratinocytes were incubated with radiolabeled retinol. There was no accumulation of the oxidized catabolic metabolites 4-hydroxy- or 4-oxoretinoic acid; however, 5,6-epoxy retinoic acid was detected at pharmacological levels (10 and 30 microM) of added retinol. Biological activity of retinol was assessed through analysis of two known retinoic acid-mediated responses: 1) reduction of type I epidermal transglutaminase and 2) activation of a retinoic acid receptor-dependent reporter gene, beta RARE3-tk-CAT. Both all-trans retinol and all-trans retinoic acid reduced type I epidermal transglutaminase in a dose-dependent manner; however, the ED50 for all-trans retinol (10 nM) was 10 times greater than for all-trans retinoic acid (1 nM). All-trans retinol also stimulated beta RARE3-tk-CAT reporter gene activity in a dose-dependent manner. Half-maximal induction was observed at 30 nM retinol, which was again 10-fold greater than observed with all-trans retinoic acid. Cotransfection of human keratinocytes with expression vectors for dominant negative mutant retinoic acid and retinoid X receptors reduced retinol-induced beta RARE3-tk-CAT reporter gene activation by 80%. Inhibition of conversion of all-trans retinol or all-trans retinaldehyde to all-trans retinoic acid by citral reduced beta RARE3-tk-CAT activity 98 and 86%, respectively. These data demonstrate that retinol-induced responses in human keratinocytes are mediated by its tightly regulated conversion to retinoic acid, which functions as a ligand to activate nuclear retinoic acid receptors.
Saccade and vestibular ocular motor adaptation

Purpose: This paper focuses on motor learning within the saccadic and vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) oculomotor systems, vital for our understanding how the brain keeps these subsystems calibrated in the presence of disease, trauma, and the changes that invariably accompany normal development and aging. We will concentrate on new information related to multiple time scales of saccade motor learning, adaptation of the VOR during high-velocity impulses, and the role of saccades in VOR adaptation. The role of the cerebellum in both systems is considered. Methods: Review of data involving saccade and VOR motor learning. Results: Data supports learning within the saccadic and VOR oculomotor systems is influenced by 1). Multiple time scales, with different rates of both learning and forgetting (seconds, minutes, hours, days, and months). In the case of forgetting, relearning on a similar task may be faster. 2). Pattern of training, learning and forgetting are not similarly achieved. Different contexts require different motor behaviors and rest periods between training sessions can be important for memory consolidation. Conclusions: The central nervous system has the difficult task of determining where blame resides when motor performance is impaired (the credit assignment problem). Saccade and VOR motor learning takes place at multiple levels within the nervous system, from alterations in ion channel and membrane properties on single neurons, to more complex changes in neural circuit behavior and higher-level cognitive processes including prediction. Language: en
Protocol for the Examination of Specimens From Patients With Hodgkin's Disease

T protocol is intended to assist pathologists in providing clinically useful and relevant information as a result of the examination of surgical specimens. Use of this protocol is intended to be entirely voluntary. If equally valid protocols or similar documents are applicable, the pathologist is, of course, free to follow those authorities. Indeed, the ultimate judgment regarding the propriety of any specific procedure must be made by the physician in light of the individual circumstances presented by a specific patient or specimen. It should be understood that adherence to this protocol will not guarantee a successful result. Nevertheless, pathologists are urged to familiarize themselves with this document. Should a physician choose to deviate from the protocol owing to the circumstances of a particular patient or specimen, the physician is advised to make a contemporaneous written notation of the reason for the procedure followed. The College recognizes that this document may be used by hospitals, attorneys, managed care organizations, insurance carriers, and other payers. However, the document was developed solely as a tool to assist pathologists in the diagnostic process by providing information that reflects the state of relevant medical knowledge at the time the protocol was first published. It was not developed for credentialing, litigation, or reimbursement purposes. The College cautions that any uses of the protocol for these purposes involve considerations that are beyond the scope of this document.
Tietz Textbook of Clinical Chemistry, Third Edition. Carl A. Burtis and Edward R. Ashwood, eds. Philadelphia, PA: WB Saunders, 1998, 1917 pp., $195.00. ISBN 0-7216-5610-2.

One can identify a good textbook in medicine by its being authoritative, useful, comprehensive, facile, inclusive, and well-organized. One needs to ask whether one would use the book every day, as the first place to refer and the last. The third edition of the Tietz Textbook of Clinical Chemistry fits this bill. The editors of the Tietz Textbook have made several changes from the previous edition. They have added chapters covering Laboratory Management, Cytokines, Cardiac Function, and Organ Transplantation; split Amino Acids and Proteins into two chapters; and combined the chapters on Osmometry, Electrolytes, Blood Gases and pH, and Acid-Base Balance and Acid-Base Disorders into one chapter. In addition, the chapter on Endocrinology has been split into six chapters, now entitled General Endocrine Function, Pituitary Function, Thyroid Function, Function of the Adrenal Cortex-Mix, Catecholamines …
Branding Time: Swatch and Global Brand Management

Societe Suisse de Microelectronique et d'Horlogerie (SMH) was formed in 1983 by merging the two leading Swiss watch groups, SSIH and ASUAG. SMH and its main brand, Swatch, was the outcome of crisis for the Swiss watch industry. In a few short decades, foreign competitors with superior technology had all but eliminated the Swiss from a global industry that they dominated for centuries. The creation of Swatch is the extraordinary story of how the Swiss re-invented their watch industry. Recognizing the crucial role of brand intangibles to its future success, SMH changed its name to the Swatch Group in 1998. Now in the new millennium the Group needs to chart a strategy to preserve and enhance its stable of global brands. This case study has been reprinted: ICFAI Journal of Brand Management, Vol.2(2), pp.39-54, June 2005. An updated version of this case, under the same title, is available from the European Case Clearing House, Case 307-377-1, 2007. An accompanying teaching note is also available: Teaching Note 307-377-8, 2007.
Concrete Slump in Nuclear Power Plant Construction

The various aspects related to the slump test are detailed for nine nuclear power plants including test frequency, acceptance criteria, time limits, and the addition of supplement water. These aspects are compared to industry standards of practice. It is pointed out that nuclear concrete specifications are written so as to diminish the role played by the concrete inspector because much of the engineering judgment traditionally applied on commercial construction projects is not permitted on nuclear construction. Instead, the rigid interpretation of the specifications often relegates the inspector to a position of nothing more than a number collector. It is suggested that the role of the inspector is the most important element in a cost effective quality control program and should be complemented with flexible specifications that include inadvertency margins are void of time limits, lower slump limits, and running averages.
New Therapeutic and Surgical Approaches for Sporadic and Hereditary Pheochromocytoma

: Pheochromocytoma is a rare, surgically correctable cause of hypertension. Modern medical blockade has significantly improved patient survival and morbidity. The last decade has seen the identification of the genes responsible for several hereditary causes of pheochromocytoma. Evaluation of these patients has demonstrated different catecholamine profiles associated with the different syndromes. Genetic testing and new, more sensitive catecholamine tests are allowing better, earlier diagnosis of affected patients. Some patients with small tumors deemed nonfunctional by traditional methods may be safely observed until function is demonstrated. Laparoscopic surgery has supplanted the use of open surgery in the management of these tumors. Adrenocortical-sparing surgery may be performed using laparoscopy in patients with hereditary forms of pheochromocytoma.
Critical assessment of pyroelectric detectors

Abstract A critical assessment of the pyroelectric detector is given. The response function and noise sources are reviewed and an optimal procedure to reach the practical performance limit defined by material thermal noise is presented. The temperature dependent characteristics of the detector are described and the figure-of-merit of the detector is discussed.
Picosecond light-pulse-induced damage to diamond

We report on picosecond laser-induced damage experiments that were carried out on a natural type-IIa diamond and a thick specimen of high-quality chemically vapor-deposited (CVD) diamond. In conjunction with earlier measurements performed elsewhere on an `optically thick' single crystal, it is shown that for spot sizes (2 (omega) ) ranging from 3 to 60 micrometers , the breakdown field strength (E BD ) at the damage threshold of diamond obeys a pattern best described as follows: E BD approximately equals A/(root)2(omega) , where A equals 30.7 and 38.7 MV(mu) 1/2 /cm at 532 and 1064 nm, respectively. The case of CVD diamond demonstrates that, if problems arising from localized high absorption at the deposition surface can be avoided, this material should be of much promise for contemplated high-power free-electron laser window applications. We show that corrections for self- focusing in laser damage experiments depend not only on the peak pulse power but also on the position of the diffraction prefocus and the length of the Rayleigh range.
Cardiovascular complications of Rheumatoid Arthritis - Assessment, prevention and treatment

Morbidity and mortality rates are higher in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) than in the general population. Ischemic heart disease and heart failure now represent one of the most common causes of death in RA. Indeed, RA appears to represent an independent risk factor for ischemic heart disease, similar to diabetes mellitus. However, no clear guidelines with regard to cardiovascular disease diagnosis and prevention in RA have been developed. This review highlights recent investigations on the assessment, prevention, and treatment of cardiovascular disease in RA.
Decreased total serum coenzyme-Q10 concentrations: a longitudinal study in children with cystic fibrosis.

Objective To assess total serum levels of coenzyme Q 10 (Co-Q 10 ), an important antioxidant, in children with cystic fibrosis (CF) and to investigate an association between Co-Q 10 level and clinical outcome. Study design Co-Q 10 levels were measured annually in a prospective cohort study of 381 children with CF. A total of 1092 serum levels of total Co-Q 10 were obtained by high-performance liquid chromatography and ultraviolet light detection. Associations of Co-Q 10 with demographic variables and clinical outcomes were investigated. Results Of the 381 initial total serum Co-Q 10 measurements, 188 were in the deficient range. Low Co-Q 10 was significantly more prevalent in patients with pancreatic insufficiency (PI) (55%) compared with patients with pancreatic sufficiency (PS) (3%); 22% of the patients with PI exhibited persistently low Co-Q 10 levels. Low Co-Q 10 levels were significantly associated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa colonization in patients with PI and CF under age 24 months, but not with subsequent lung function or hospitalization rates. Low Co-Q 10 levels were related to other markers of nutritional status, including total lipids, beta-carotene, and alpha-tocopherol. Conclusions Persistently low total serum Co-Q 10 levels are common in children with CF and PI. A prospective study is indicated to determine whether Co-Q 10 supplementation in CF is beneficial.
Headspace volatiles and sensory characteristics of ground beef from forage- and grain-fed heifers

Twenty-seven yearling Hereford-Angus heifers were allotted to one of three intense managed pasture systems: Tifleaf pearl millet, sorghum sudangrass and fescue-clover. After grazing, heifers were finished in drylot and then serially slaughtered at 0, 52, and 82 days in the feedlot (DIF). A total of 51 volatiles were identified in ground beef from Longissimus dorsi (L. dorsi) muscle and subcutaneous fat. Major classes of volatile compounds identified included hydrocarbons and aldehydes plus fewer numbers of ketones, alcohols, aromatic compounds and sulfur-containing compounds. The majority of compounds which varied due to DIF were alkanals and alk-2-enals. The concentration of each of the volatiles which varied due to DIF was found to increase. None of the volatiles quantitated were positively correlated with sweetness or gamey aftertaste, the two characteristics which were highest for the O DIF cattle.
ICIS and Aurora B Coregulate the Microtubule Depolymerase Kif2a

Kinesins in the mitotic spindle play major roles in determining spindle shape, size, and bipolarity, although specific regulation of these kinesins at distinct locations on the spindle is poorly understood. So that the forces that are required for spindle bipolarity are balanced, microtubule-depolymerizing kinesins are tightly regulated. Aurora B kinase phosphorylates the neck regions of the kinesin-13 family microtubule depolymerases Kif2a and mitotic centromere-associated kinesin (MCAK) and inhibits their depolymerase activities. How they are reactivated and how this is controlled independently on different kinetochore fibers is unknown. We show that inner centromere Kin-I stimulator (ICIS), which stimulates the related depolymerase MCAK, can reactivate Kif2a after Aurora B inhibition. When antibodies that block the ability of ICIS to activate Kif2a are injected into cells, monopolar spindles are generated. This phenotype is rescued by coinjection of anti-Nuf2 antibodies. We have performed a structure-function analysis of the ICIS protein and find that the N terminus of ICIS binds Aurora B and its regulators INCENP and TD60, whereas a central region binds MCAK, Kif2a, and microtubules, suggesting a scaffold function for ICIS. These data argue that ICIS and the chromosomal passenger complex (CPC) regulate Kif2a depolymerase activity.
Absorbable Cyanoacrylate Surgical Sealant in Kidney Transplantation

As the proportion of older recipients increases, the vascular anastomoses can be challenging with significant atherosclerosis, and patients with comorbidities may be on an anticoagulation therapy, potentially increasing the risk of hemorrhagic complications. We report a case of kidney transplantation in which an absorbable cyanoacrylate surgical sealant was used. A 32-year-old white male received a kidney transplant from his wife. Two renal arteries of the donor's left kidney were reconstructed on the back table and anastomosed to the right iliac artery of the recipient. After the sealant was applied to the suture lines, the vascular clamps were released without significant bleeding from the anastomoses. The recipient demonstrated a stable graft function without an immediate complication. This case illustrates the potential benefits of the cyanoacrylate sealant in selected kidney transplant recipients.
Thermal Conductivity and Seebeck Coefficient of InP

The thermal conductivity and the Seebeck coefficient of two undoped InP crystals were measured between 300 and 800\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. Computed values of the Seebeck coefficient, assuming pure polar scattering, are in excellent agreement with the experimental data. The electronic thermal conductivity was found to be negligible in InP. The interpretation of the lattice thermal resistivity provides strong evidence for the influence of optical mode scattering on the thermal resistivity of III-V compounds, which was postulated earlier by the authors.
More than maths and mindreading: Sex differences in empathizing/systemizing covariance.

Empathizing–Systemizing theory posits a continuum of cognitive traits extending from autism into normal cognitive variation. Covariance data on empathizing and systemizing traits have alternately suggested inversely dependent, independent, and sex-dependent (one sex dependent, the other independent) structures. A total of 144 normal undergraduates (65 men, 79 women) completed the Reading the Mind in the Eyes, Embedded Figures, and Benton face recognition tests, the Autism Spectrum Quotient, and measures of digit length ratio and field of study; some also completed tests of motion coherence threshold (64) and go/no-go motor inhibition (128). Empathizing and systemizing traits were independent in women, but largely dependent in men. In men, level of systemizing skill required by field of study was directly related to social interactive and mindreading deficits; men's social impairments correlated with prolonged go/no-go response times, and men tended to apply systemizing strategies to solve problems of empathizing or global processing: rapid perceptual disembedding predicted heightened sensitivity to facial emotion. In women, level of systemizing in field was related to male-typical digit ratios and autistic superiorities in detail orientation, but not to autistic social and communicative impairments; and perceptual disembedding was related to social interactive skills but independent of facial emotion and visual motion perception.
Microwave power and efficiency performance of AlGaAs/GaAs self-aligned HBTs

The microwave power performance of AlGaAs/GaAs self-aligned HBTs from 10 to 35 GHz is described. A record value of 68% power added efficiency was obtained at 10 GHz. At 18 GHz, 16.3 dB associated gain was achieved with 1.83 W/mm power density and 40% efficiency. At 35 GHz, a 15 dB small signal gain was observed. The tested HBTs have 2 micron feature size. Further improvement is expected with optimization of the HBT structure.
Human immunodeficiency virus reservoir might be actively eradicated as residual malignant cells by cytotoxic chemotherapy

A unique characteristic of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is that the virus must incorporate its cDNA into the host genomic DNA for replication. Once the virus gets into the host genome and becomes a part of the host genetic materials, elimination of the virus without killing the infected cells is virtually impossible. The use of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) can result in a substantial decline in viremia. However, HAART does not eradicate HIV. The progressive HIV infection will unavoidably rebound after a cessation of the treatment. Searching for a new combination therapeutic strategy with cytotoxic agents that eliminate or significantly reduce the HIV reservoir is a potential way for better control of the disease. Theoretically, the HIV reservoir can be gradually eradicated by long-term use of certain antimetabolic cytotoxic drugs coupled with proper activation of latently infected cells, if viral replication is completely blocked by antiretroviral chemotherapy to protect uninfected, susceptible cells.
CRYSTAL, MOLECULAR AND ELECTRONIC STRUCTURE OF THE ELECTRON ACCEPTOR 5,5-DIFLUORO-7,7,8,8-TETRACYANO-P-QUINODIMETHANE, 2,5-TCNQF2.

Abstract The crystal structure of the electron acceptor 2,5-difluoro-7,7,8,8-tetracyano-p-quinodimethane, 2,5-TCNQF2, has been determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction methods. The layered crystal structure is dominated by the antiparallel coupling of cyano bond moments of symmetry-related molecules. The molecular and electronic structure (INDO approximation) of 2,5-TCNQF2 are extensively compared to that of its parent TCNQ and the perfluoro analog TCNQF4. Crystal data for 2,5-TCNQF2 are as follow: monoclinic, space group C2/m, a=10.208(4) A, b=6.026(2) A, c=8.836(3) A,β=106.64(3)[ddot], V=520.8 A3. The site symmetry (2/m;C2h) in the crystal is identical to that for the free 2,5-TCNQF2 molecule
W. M. Keck Observatory's next-generation adaptive optics facility

We report on the preliminary design of W.M. Keck Observatory's (WMKO's) next-generation adaptive optics (NGAO) facility. This facility is designed to address key science questions including understanding the formation and evolution of today's galaxies, measuring dark matter in our galaxy and beyond, testing the theory of general relativity in the Galactic Center, understanding the formation of planetary systems around nearby stars, and exploring the origins of our own solar system. The requirements derived from these science questions have resulted in NGAO being designed to have near diffraction-limited performance in the near-IR (K-Strehl ~ 80%) over narrow fields (< 30" diameter) with modest correction down to ~ 700 nm, high sky coverage, improved sensitivity and contrast and improved photometric and astrometric accuracy. The resultant key design features include multi-laser tomography to measure the wavefront and correct for the cone effect, open loop AO-corrected near-IR tip-tilt sensors with MEMS deformable mirrors (DMs) for high sky coverage, a high order MEMS DM for the correction of atmospheric and telescope static errors to support high Strehls and high contrast companion sensitivity, point spread function (PSF) calibration to benefit quantitative astronomy, a cooled science path to reduce thermal background, and a high-efficiency science instrument providing imaging and integral field spectroscopy.
Acetoxymercuration of acylferrocenes a novel synthesis of 1,2-disubstituted ferrocenes

Abstract Acetoxymercuration of a series of acylferrocenes has been found to produce appreciable amounts of 1,2- as well as 1,1′-mercurated products. The mercurated derivatives were readily converted into a variety of other unsymmetrical 1,2- and 1,1′-disubstituted ferrocenes. The 1,2-orientation of substituents was inferred by spectra data, and was confirmed by a comparison of products from the mercuration reactions with analogous products obtained from the 2-lithiation of [(dimethylamino)methyl]ferrocene. Both 2-(methoxycarbonyl)biferrocene and 2-acetylbiferrocene have been obtained from mixed Ullmann reactions of iodoferrocene with 2-iodo-1-(methoxycarbonyl)ferrocene and 2-iodo-1-acetylferrocene, respectively.
Beyond natural resources: horizontal and vertical FDI diversification in Sub-Saharan Africa

This article uses firm-level data to analyse the drivers of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to the manufacturing and services sectors of 30 Sub-Saharan African countries. It shows that improving the investment climate helps to attract aggregate FDI. By analysing disaggregate FDI data, the article establishes that there is considerable contrast in behaviour between vertical FDI (foreign firms producing for export) and horizontal FDI (foreign firms producing for local markets). In particular, the latter firms are attracted to areas with higher trade regulations, highlighting their interest in protected markets. Furthermore, horizontal FDI is more affected by financing and human capital constraints and less affected by infrastructure and institutional constraints than vertical FDI is.
Kinetics of colicin E2-induced solubilization and fragmentation of Escherichia coli DNA in vivo.

Abstract In exponentially growing cultures of sensitive bacteria treated with colicin E2, solubilization of DNA was detected after 3–5 min, single-strand cleavage after an additional 2–5 min and finally double-strand breaks in DNA were detected after a further 5–10 min. Early addition of 2,4-dinitrophenol completely prevented E2-induced fragmentation of DNA and the uncoupler immediately inhibited further DNA breakdown when added at various times after the commencement of E2 action. Both E2-induced fragmentation and solubilization of DNA proceeded faster in a RecA mutant compared to the wild type but DNA degradation was normal in a UvrA mutant. In contrast to growing cultures, the induction of E2-induced solubilization of DNA commenced without detectable lag in phosphate buffer suspensions and therefore the formation of the E2-cellular complex which actually triggers DNA breakdown appears to be transiently inhibited in growing bacteria. Addition of high salt concentrations to cell suspensions in buffer effectively blocked both fragmentation and solubilization of DNA induced by E2.
Evolution in the pancreatic chymotrypsinogen series: N-terminal sequence determinations and comparisons.

The N-terminal amino acid sequences of chymotrypsinogens purified from the pancreas of three turtle species (Chelydra serpentina, Chrysemis picta andPseudemys elegans) have been determined, using automated Edman degradation. Homology has been established in the sequences of mammalian and reptilian chymo-trypsinogens. The first basic residue (and probable point of activating cleavage) was found, for reptilian chymotrypsinogens, to be at position 15, the same as in the cases of bovine and porcine chymotrypsinogens A and B. Although the comparative sequence information so far available in this series is limited, it suggests that a high rate of acceptance of replacement occurs in certain region of the chain: the variability observed can be interpreted in terms of the hypothesis of the selection of variants by the requirements for protein folding. The divergence of types of chymotrypsinogen is discussed.
The effect of sodium restriction and weight reduction on blood pressure of patients with hypertension and chronic renal disease

Abstract Objective: To examine the blood pressure (BP) effect of sodium intake and weight changes in hypertensive patients with moderate to advanced chronic renal diseases. Design: Subgroup analyses comparing urine, sodium, weight, and BP changes by lifestyle modification (sodium, weight, sodium and weight, or none). Setting: 15 US clinical centers Patients: 724 hypertensive patients with chronic renal disease used in the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) Study Group. Interventions: Primary MDRD interventions were protein and phosphorus reductions in the diet and hypertension treatment with antihypertensive medications. Secondary interventions included lifestyle modifications. Main outcome measures: BP changes during 18 months of follow-up. Results: In this study, 51.2% of patients were prescribed sodium or weight modifications: sodium or sodium plus weight loss (31.2%) and weight alone (20.0%). After 18 months, sodium reductions averaged 4.3 mmol/L in the usual mean arterial pressure (MAP) group and 20.7 mmol/L in the low MAP group. Weight reductions averaged 2.0 kg in the usual MAP group and 1.4 kg in the low MAP group. BP decreased more in low MAP patients advised to reduce sodium or weight (−4.5 to −5.7 mm Hg; P = .0002), and patients on both weight and sodium modifications showed the largest decrease. Multiple regression analyses revealed significant association between weight change and BP in low MAP patients. Cautious interpretation is recommended because these were subgroup analyses and participants were not randomly assigned to lifestyle modifications. Conclusion: Planned weight loss and modest sodium reductions were observed in hypertensive MDRD Study participants on concurrent dietary protein and phosphorus and antihypertensive medication interventions. Sodium or weight benefits were greater in hypertensives randomized to low MAP and low protein goals. Even modest weight loss appeared beneficial for BP management. Weight loss benefits to blood pressure management would be important to confirm in future randomized studies of hypertensive renal patients.
Multi-mechanism vibration harvester combining inductive and piezoelectric mechanisms

With increasing demand for wireless sensor nodes in automobile, aircraft and rail applications, the need for energy harvesters has been growing. In these applications, energy harvesters provide a more robust and inexpensive power solution than batteries. In order to enhance the power density of existing energy harvesters, a variety of multimodal energy harvesting techniques have been proposed. Multi-modal energy harvesters can be categorized as: (i) Multi-Source Energy Harvester (MSEH), (ii) Multi-Mechanism Energy Harvester (MMEH), and (iii) Single Source Multi-Mode Energy Harvester (S 2 M 2 EH). In this study, we focus on developing MMEH which combines the inductive and piezoelectric mechanisms. The multi-mechanism harvester was modeled using FEM techniques and theoretically analyzed to optimize the performance and reduce the overall shape and size similar to that of AA battery. The theoretical model combining analytical and FEM modeling techniques provides the system dynamics and output power for specific generator and cymbal geometry at various source conditions. In the proposed design, a cylindrical tube contains a magnetic levitation cavity where a center magnet oscillates through a copper coil. Piezoelectric cymbal transducers were mounted on the top and bottom sections of the cylindrical shell. In response to the external vibrations, electrical energy was harvested from the relative motion between magnet and coil through Faraday's effect and from the piezoelectric material through the direct piezoelectric effect. Experimental results validate the predictions from theoretical model and show the promise of multimodal harvester for powering wireless sensor nodes in automobile, aircraft, and rail applications.
Graph cut-based binarisation of noisy check images

Binarisation of document images with poor contrast, strong noise, complex patterns and variable modalities in the grey-scale histograms is a challenging problem. This study proposes an algorithm for the binarisation of noisy check images to extract handwriting text using normalised graph cuts (GCs). The proposed algorithm uses a normalised GC measure as a thresholding principle to distinguish the handwriting characters from the noisy background. The authors propose a factor to penalise extracting objects that do not have the elongated shape of the characters. Improving the structural quality of the characters' skeleton facilitates better feature extraction and classification, which improves the overall performance of optical character recognition (OCR). Experimental results performed on 560 check images showed significant improvements in OCR recognition rates compared to other well-established segmentation algorithms.
Evaluation of behavioral disinhibition in P/NP and HAD1/LAD1 Rats

1. Two lines of rats specifically bred for alcohol preference were exposed to two different behavioral tasks that required behavioral inhibition to successfully solve. 2. Learning and performance of a step-down passive avoidance task and a differential reinforcement of low-rate responding task were studied in P/NP and HAD1/LAD1 rats. 3. While the P rats had difficulty in learning both tasks, HAD1, LAD1 and NP rats performed at control levels. 4. These data suggest that P rats, but not HAD1 rats, may have problems learning tasks that require inhibition of ongoing or previously learned behaviors.
A benchmark-learning roadmap for the Military Finance Center

This paper aims to explore the operating efficiency and the benchmark-learning roadmap of military financial units for the finance center under the supervision of the Comptroller Bureau. A benchmarking managerial framework is developed and illustrated through application to the finance center. The framework encompasses a performance pyramid which embodies multiple perspectives of the organization under a balanced scorecard, data envelopment analysis, and cluster analysis. This assessment can assist the Comptroller Bureau to enhance the operational management of the finance center and to help military financial units deliver more efficient services, including the Armed Forces' financial management, the audit of personnel-related expenditure, and the supervision and evaluation of the operation and financial management process. This paper highlights the potential applications and strengths of the methods used in assessing the military financial units.
Acute and Chronic Effects of Iodide on Thyroid Radioiodine Metabolism in Iodine-Deficient Rats

Work of previous investigators has established that the distribution of 131I among the iodoamino acids of the thyroids of rats on an adequate iodine intake is not seriously affected by a previous acute injection of NaC104, whereas it is markedly altered by acute administration of propylthiouracil (PTU). In iodinedeficient rats, we observed that the administration of NaC104 shortly before injection of carrierfree 131I resulted in a striking further increase in the usual high values for MIT*/DIT/, and in marked decreases in T4/ and T3/. Similar changes were seen after injection of PTU. The effect of NaC104 was completely abolished by administration of 20 /μg of stable iodide together with the 131I. Similarly, in iodine-deficient rats not receiving NaC104, injection of graded doses of iodide carrier (up to 5 μg) with 131I led to progressively greater values for T4/ and DIT/, and to progressively lower values for MIT/ and T3/. These results indicate that the degree of incorporation of stable iodide into thyro...
Effect of beta-blockers on the heart rhythm complexity in children

Beta-blockers are often used in the treatment of various heart diseases and affect the heart rate variability. In this study we aimed to assess the effect of various types of beta-blockers on the heart rate complexity in children using the multiscale entropy and detrended fluctuation analysis (DFA). The study involved 21 patients who were treated with beta-blockers for supraventricular tachycardia and 15 healthy children with normal cardiac assessments. The heart rate data was extracted from 24-hour Holter recordings and the DFA and multiscale entropy analyses were performed. The entropy was significantly higher in children who were treated with beta-blockers (MANOVA, p &#60; 0.001). However DFA did not reveal significant difference between the two groups. Higher entropy indicates an increase in the heart rate complexity. Entropy and fractal behavior can change critically in disease states and the effect of beta-blockers can potentially be very useful in predicting clinical outcome.
Melanoma thickness and histology predict sentinel lymph node status

Background: It remains unclear which patients with melanoma will benefit most from lymphatic mapping and sentinel lymphadenectomy. The purpose of this study is to determine whether primary melanoma histopathologic features could be applied to predict sentinel node status. Methods: One hundred twelve patients underwent sentinel node biopsy between May 1995 and August 1999. Reported histologic features were assessed for predictive value by univariate and multivariate logistic regression. Results: The sentinel node was located successfully in 105 of the 112 patients (94%). Twenty-one of these 105 patients (20%) had sentinel nodes that were positive for metastatic disease. Multivariate analyses revealed that tumor thickness greater than 1.5 mm (P = 0.01), ulceration (P <0.01), and lymphovascular invasion (P = 0.05) predicted the presence of micrometastases. Conclusions: The presence of unfavorable histopathology such as ulceration and lymphovascular invasion may identify a group of patients with thin melanomas who would benefit from sentinel lymphadenectomy.
Fish species introductions provide novel insights into the patterns and drivers of phylogenetic structure in freshwaters

Despite long-standing interest of terrestrial ecologists, freshwater ecosystems are a fertile, yet unappreciated, testing ground for applying community phylogenetics to uncover mechanisms of species assembly. We quantify phylogenetic clustering and overdispersion of native and non-native fishes of a large river basin in the American Southwest to test for the mechanisms (environmental filtering versus competitive exclusion) and spatial scales influencing community structure. Contrary to expectations, non-native species were phylogenetically clustered and related to natural environmental conditions, whereas native species were not phylogenetically structured, likely reflecting human-related changes to the basin. The species that are most invasive (in terms of ecological impacts) tended to be the most phylogenetically divergent from natives across watersheds, but not within watersheds, supporting the hypothesis that Darwin's naturalization conundrum is driven by the spatial scale. Phylogenetic distinctiveness may facilitate non-native establishment at regional scales, but environmental filtering restricts local membership to closely related species with physiological tolerances for current environments. By contrast, native species may have been phylogenetically clustered in historical times, but species loss from contemporary populations by anthropogenic activities has likely shaped the phylogenetic signal. Our study implies that fundamental mechanisms of community assembly have changed, with fundamental consequences for the biogeography of both native and non-native species.
Apparent stresses in disturbed pulsatile flows

Abstract Traditional attempts at decomposing measured velocities into repeatable and random components are examined for a set of velocity data measured under pulsatile flow conditions distal to a 90% axisymmetric constriction. The Reynolds numbers, which are typical of those found in the human carotid artery, are such that transitional phenomena occur during portions of the pulsatile cycle at several axial stations. The implications of the method selected for velocity decomposition upon the computation of fluctuating or ‘apparent’ stresses is a point of major focus. It is shown that the usual estimation of Reynolds stresses in a pulsatile flow by subtracting the ensemble-averaged velocity from the instantaneous velocity leads to an underestimation of the apparent stress when coherent or repeatable disturbances exist in the flow. An alternative decomposition using a frequency domain approach is presented which combines both random and coherent stresses into a single apparent stress, and it is proposed that this approach is preferable to the traditional ensemble averaging method when estimating fluctuating stresses in arterial flows.
Seeing Conflict: A Study of Conflict Accuracy in Work Teams

This study examines individual conflict accuracy, or the ability of a team member to make accurate judgments about dyadic conflict between others. We examine team member accuracy in identifying the presence of conflict between two team members and argue that individuals differ in the extent to which they accurately make judgments about conflict. We maintain that specific factors determine whether conflict is seen or not. We develop a framework for understanding individual conflict accuracy that takes into account pre-existing beliefs about the consequences that conflict has for team performance, the extent to which one is in conflict with other team members, and one's structural position within the network of team relationships. Our analyses of nearly 3,000 assessments made by team members about conflict between two of their teammates provide general support for the proposition that individual, interpersonal, and structural factors play a role in explaining team members' conflict accuracy.
Fast technetium 99m-labeled sestamibi gated single-photon emission computed tomography for evaluation of myocardial function

Abstract Background. This study assesses the feasibility of 99mTc-labeled sestamibi electrocardiographic gated single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) with a short acquisition time (6.7 minutes, “fast” gated SPECT) for the evaluation of stress myocardial perfusion and poststress myocardial function. Simultaneous assessment of stress perfusion and poststress function is possible with standard gated SPECT acquisition (19.3 minutes) of stress-injected sestamibi. Sestamibi gated SPECT can be used to evaluate regional wall motion (RWM), thickening, and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF); the feasibility of fast gated SPECT has not been evaluated previously. Methods and Results. Fifty patients were studied who underwent treadmill exercise, sestamibi injection (25 to 30 mCi), and standard gated SPECT 15 minutes after exercise, immediately followed by fast gated SPECT. All patients underwent rest 201 Tl SPECT before exercise testing. All studies were analyzed by semiquantitative visual scoring. Both standard and fast gated SPECT were read for stress perfusion and poststress wall motion and thickening, dividing the left ventricle into 20 segments, on a 5-point scale described previously. The measurement of LVEF used a previously described automatic algorithm. Average myocardial counts per pixel were 58 ± 19 for standard gated SPECT and 13 ± 4 for fast gated SPECT (p = 0.0001). Heart/lung ratio was 10.2 ± 4.8 for regular gated SPECT and 10.3 ± 5.7 for fast gated SPECT (difference not significant). Perfusion analysis showed exact agreement in 92% of the segments (κ = 0.76; p Conclusions. Our data demonstrate that fast sestamibi gated SPECT is feasible and yields results equivalent to those of standard sestamibi gated SPECT with respect to left ventricular regional and global function.