cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Advanced Quantitative Magnetic Nondestructive Evaluation Methods — Theory and Experiment

The scale of fatigue crack phenomena is reviewed in relation to the size detection capabilities of nondestructive evaluation methods. Several features of the fatigue phenomena which should be considered in developing nondestructive characteriziation methods are tabulated and briefly discussed. A qualitative assessment of such factors in relation to the inspection of ball and roller bearing components suggested that magnetic methods were very promising. The basis of the magnetic methods is magnetic domain phenomena and several aspects are briefly reviewed, including interaction of domains and inclusions and the influence of stress and magnetic field on domains. While magnetic calculations from first principles are extremely complicated when applied to engineering specimens, simplified treatments have been developed and will be reviewed. Experimental results will also be described which indicate that in many instances the simplified calculations can be used to predict many features of the experimental results. A cursory comparison of results predicted by the simple analytic model and other models in which finite element computer analysis predictions have been made do not agree for certain features. Experimental results and analyses obtained on rod-type fatigue specimens which show the experimental magnetic measurements in relation to featues such as crack opening displacement, crack opening volume, crack depth and other features show much promise in providing methods for greatly improved characterization of cracks in relation to fracture mechanics analyses and life prediction.
TIPS: Covered Stents and Long-Term Results

The progressive development of flow-limiting stenoses in transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (TIPS) has been well documented, with shunt dysfunction occurring in up to 85% of patients within 1 year (LABERGE et al. 1993; ROSSLE et al. 1994, 1998; BARTON et al.1995).Although long-term assisted patency rates over 90% can be achieved by balloon dilatation or additional stent placement, such efforts are costly, invasive, and require careful monitoring of the shunt by Doppler ultrasound or venography (HASKAL et al.1994, 1997a; HAUSSEGGER et al.1994), Thus, for patients with preserved liver function (Child-Pugh class A and class B) the short-term benefit of TIPS as the definitive treatment for portal hypertension may be outweighed by the need for continuous monitoring and frequent interventions. Primary patency must be improved before TIPS can achieve the full potential that its short-term efficacy, minimal invasiveness, low morbidity, and low mortality predict.
The Central Limit Theorem

We have already seen that many distributions approach the normal distribution in some limit of large numbers. We will now discuss a very general theorem on this point, the central limit theorem. The normal distribution is the most important probability distribution precisely because of this theorem. We also will find that occasionally in regions of physical interest the assumptions fail and the normal distribution is not approached.
Differential Susceptibility to Parenting in Adolescent Girls: Moderation by Neural Sensitivity to Social Cues

This research examined whether heightened neural activation to social cues confers adjustment advantages in supportive social contexts but adjustment disadvantages in stressful social contexts. Forty-five adolescent girls were exposed to social exclusion during an fMRI scan and reported on parent-child relationship quality and depressive symptoms. Stressful parent-child relationships predicted subsequent depressive symptoms in girls with high and moderate but not low dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, subgenual anterior cingulate cortex, and anterior insula activation during exclusion. In the context of supportive parent-child relationships, however, neural activation to exclusion predicted particularly low levels of depressive symptoms. This support for a biological sensitivity to context model suggests the possibility of redirecting adolescent girls' neural sensitivity to social cues toward more positive adaptation.
Measuring Thermal Acoustic Radiation with an Optomechanical Antenna

We optically probe the SiN membrane nanomechanical resonator modes that are strongly coupled to acoustic radiation into the substrate. We use this optomechanical system for temperature metrology by detecting the ballistic transport of thermal excitations from a remote bath.
Obturator Intraneural Ganglion Cysts: Joint Connected and Underdiagnosed.

Background Intraneural ganglion cysts of the obturator nerve are rare. Our aim is to review cases of obturator intraneural ganglion cysts at our institution and those reported in the literature. Methods We reviewed all cases evaluated by the senior author. A literature search was performed using the PubMed database and Google Scholar with the following terms: "obturator cyst," "obturator intraneural ganglion cyst,” and "obturator intraneural ganglia." All cases underwent a retrospective review. Patient demographic data, including age, sex, and presenting signs and symptoms were recorded. Imaging studies were re-evaluated by 2 musculoskeletal radiologists experienced in the diagnosis of intraneural ganglion cysts. Results We identified 2 cases of obturator intraneural ganglia at our institution; both were connected to the hip joint. We found 4 cases that were clearly diagnosed as intraneural ganglia in the literature, of which only 1 was recognized by the original authors as being joint connected, but based on our reinterpretation, 3 of 4 were joint connected. An additional 9 cases identified in the literature did not definitely report the nerve–cyst relationship, but based on our reinterpretation, were believed to be intraneural; 8 were joint connected. Conclusions We believe that obturator intraneural ganglion cysts adhere to the principles of the unifying articular theory. They arise from the anteromedial hip joint and extend into an articular branch and can reach the parent obturator nerve. Surgery should address the hip disease and/or the articular branch connection. Not appreciating the pathoanatomy of these cysts can lead to persistent or recurrent cysts.
The Impact of an Integrated Gratitude Intervention on Positive Affect and Coping Resources

Gratitude interventions are an emerging focus in clinical work. Consistent with theories of positive emotions, research needs to examine the effects of gratitude on different wellbeing outcomes after a positive experience. To this end, the current study examines the effects of a gratitude intervention on positive emotions and coping resources (resilience and coping self-efficacy) after a positive experience. Forty-eight university students completed a positive experience exercise and were then randomly assigned to either a gratitude or control task. Results revealed a significant interaction effect, such that individuals in the gratitude intervention group reported higher levels of positive emotions (at time 3) compared to the control group. This finding supported the hypothesis that gratitude maintains positive emotions resulting from a positive experience. Our findings also revealed a significant main effect of condition on resilience and coping self-efficacy. Specifically, the gratitude intervention group reported higher levels of resilience and coping self-efficacy compared to the control group. These findings support the hypothesis that gratitude interventions employed after a positive experience impact coping resources. The results are further discussed in terms of gratitude being an effective upregulation strategy.
Complementary and Integrative Management of Pediatric Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction Implemented within an Interprofessional Clinic.

Lower urinary tract dysfunction in children is a common multifactorial functional problem that often correlates with bowel dysfunction and behavioral disorders. Ideal management combines integrative therapies that optimize bladder and bowel habits, address behavioral issues, foster mind–body connection, and improve pelvic floor muscle dysfunction. Movement therapies that teach diaphragmatic breathing and relaxation, mind–body awareness, and healthy pelvic floor muscle function are vital for long-term symptom improvement in children. This paper outlines recommendations for integrative management of these patients and discusses a recently developed interprofessional clinic that aims to better meet these patients’ complex needs and to provide patients with an integrated holistic plan of care. Additional work is needed to scientifically assess these treatment models and educate providers across the various disciplines that evaluate and treat these patients.
Nostalgia and heritage in the carousel city: Deindustrialization, critical memory, and the future

Binghamton became the carousel city as part of a marketing campaign aimed at heritage tourism. The carousels were a gift from George F. Johnson, the Chief Executive Officer of Endicott–Johnson Corp...
The impact of sealer extrusion on endodontic outcome: A systematic review with meta-analysis.

The purpose of this systematic review was to qualify and quantify the evidence regarding the effect of extruded sealers on endodontic treatment outcomes. Two reviewers independently conducted a comprehensive literature search. The EMBASE, MEDLINE, Cochrane, PubMed databases, bibliographies, grey literature of all relevant articles and textbooks were searched. Six articles met the inclusion criteria with a moderate risk of bias and were analysed for qualitative and quantitative synthesis. There was moderate-certainty evidence that sealer extrusion can contribute to non-healing outcomes, 95% confidence interval, risk ratio 1.32 (1.12-1.54) and P < 0.05. This indicates that the current authors are somewhat confident the true effect is likely to be close to the estimate of the effect. Sealer extrusion had a 32% higher risk of contributing to a non-healing outcome than no extrusion. However, well-conducted research would need to be conducted to confirm this causality claim.
β2 adrenergic receptor polymorphisms and COPD exacerbations: a complicated story.

Genomics has significantly improved our understanding of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) over the past decade. Genome-wide association studies have identified a number of genetic variants associated with lung function and susceptibility to COPD,1 2 and have helped explain why only some smokers develop COPD and why never-smokers can also be affected by the disease. Once COPD is diagnosed, reducing the burden of respiratory exacerbations is a clinical priority because these events are associated with accelerated lung function decline3 and increased mortality.4 However, not all patients with COPD experience exacerbations.5 6 Therefore, identifying individuals at increased risk of exacerbations may help target management and improve outcomes. Beyond the susceptibility to COPD, genomics may also help inform the morbidity of COPD. A previously reported twin study suggests that more than 60% of the risk of severe COPD exacerbations can be attributed to genetic factors.7 Among those, genetic polymorphisms of the β2 adrenergic receptor have been of particular interest.8 9 Using data from individuals with COPD in the Copenhagen General Population Study (n=5262) and the Copenhagen City Heart Study (n=923), Ingebrigtsen et al tested the association of β2 adrenergic receptor polymorphisms Gly16Arg (rs1042713, c.46G>A) and Gln27Glu (rs1042714, c.79C>G) with incident risk of COPD exacerbations requiring hospitalisation.10 In the Copenhagen General Population Study, compared with 16Gly homozygotes, 16Gly/Arg heterozygotes (HR 1.62, 95% CI 1.30 to 2.03, p=0.00002) and 16Arg homozygotes (HR 1.41, 95% CI …
Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in the Treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder: Rationale, Preliminary Evidence, and Future Directions

Recent iterations of behavior therapy emphasize transdiagnostic processes highlighting commonalities of human experience, mindfulness, language, and acceptance. In contrast to traditional treatment models—which emphasize symptom reduction—these therapies instead prioritize improving quality of life and life engagement. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is one such approach with over 300 randomized controlled trials, 40 meta-analyses, and countless uncontrolled studies published on its use. ACT not only shares features of many existing evidence-based treatments for borderline personality disorder (BPD) but also proposes some unique skills that may be of benefit to patients with BPD. The purpose of the current review is to outline commonalities and distinct features of ACT that may not be familiar to providers currently treating BPD, to present a rationale for using ACT with these patients, and to provide a summary of preliminary evidence supporting this use. Existing research incorporating ACT and ACT processes in the treatment of BPD is reviewed, results from which suggest that ACT provides a promising approach for use with these patients. Nonetheless, several deficits in the research body exist. ACT provides an alternative to existing treatments for BPD with a burgeoning evidence base. However, additional research is needed documenting its use in this patient group.
Dimensionality and Predictive validity of the Classroom Learning Activities Checklist in Prekindergarten

The Classroom Learning Activities Checklist (CLAC) is a brief classroom observation measure that assesses task-oriented and self-regulated learning in early childhood environments. We assessed the tool’s dimensionality and validity in predicting prekindergarten (PreK) learning gains. The study sample is from the Midwest Child-Parent Center (MCPC) program, an evidence-based PreK–3rd grade school reform model providing comprehensive educational and family support services. Data from 1358 enrolled students in 72 observed classrooms indicated that a 2-factor model—instructional responsiveness and student engagement—explained 50% of the variance in item scores. Evidence for construct validity was strong. Linear and probit regression analyses indicated that CLAC scores independently predicted learning gains in literacy (ES = .34 SD) and math (ES = .30 SD) on the Teaching Strategies Gold Assessment System, a standardized performance assessment. Findings support the validity of the CLAC in assessing the classroom learning environment. Implications for program monitoring, evaluation, and professional development are discussed.
Lucene-P $^2$ 2 : A Distributed Platform for Privacy-Preserving Text-Based Search

Information retrieval (IR) plays an essential role in daily life. However, currently deployed IR technologies, e.g., Apache Lucene – open-source search software, are insufficient when the information is protected or deemed to be private. For example, submitting a query to a publicly available search engine (e.g., Bing or Google) requires disclosing potentially delicate facts (e.g., thoughts about abortion), as well as the websites the user considers interesting. Similarly, when a private database contains sensitive information needed by the user, it cannot be searched freely. Over the past decade, various approaches, generally referred to as private information retrieval, have been proposed to obfuscate queries and responses, but they are limited in that the retrieved information is inadequate to compute relevancy. To address such limitations, this article introduces the necessary techniques to build Lucene-P $^2$ 2 that allows one party to discover whether a second party harbors any relevant textual information without either party disclosing any information.
Mediating Islamic State| Theologians, Poets, and Lone Wolves: Mapping Medium-Specific Epistemologies of Radicalization

Examinations into the roots of Islamist terrorism have frequently presented the phenomenon as a result of either perverting political–religious epistemologies into distorted, caricatured fundamentalisms, or, alternatively, as a return to form, whereby a pure, root ideology/metaphysic is rediscovered. The former approach reflects a discourse rooted in print media and characterized by logical argumentation, linear chronology, and deference to the text. The latter approach reflects a discourse rooted in modes of secondary orality, which posit a font of ideal essence that precedes expression. The figure of the digitally engaged lone wolf undermines these discourses. His violent extremism appears only Islamically inflected through an accretion of contradictory mediated encounters linking representations of violence, Islam, and the lone wolf himself. This article argues that a new approach and discourse should therefore emerge, specific to the hypertextual and rhizomatic qualities of multiplicity and contradiction that characterize the digitally engaged lone wolf.
Use of the lignocellulose-degrading bacterium Caldicellulosiruptor bescii to assess recalcitrance and conversion of wild-type and transgenic poplar.

Biological conversion of lignocellulosic biomass is significantly hindered by feedstock recalcitrance, which is typically assessed through an enzymatic digestion assay, often preceded by a thermal and/or chemical pretreatment. Here, we assay 17 lines of unpretreated transgenic black cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa) utilizing a lignocellulose-degrading, metabolically engineered bacterium, Caldicellulosiruptor bescii. The poplar lines were assessed by incubation with an engineered C. bescii strain that solubilized and converted the hexose and pentose carbohydrates to ethanol and acetate. The resulting fermentation titer and biomass solubilization were then utilized as a measure of biomass recalcitrance and compared to data previously reported on the transgenic poplar samples. Of the 17 transgenic poplar lines examined with C. bescii, a wide variation in solubilization and fermentation titer was observed. While the wild type poplar control demonstrated relatively high recalcitrance with a total solubilization of only 20% and a fermentation titer of 7.3 mM, the transgenic lines resulted in solubilization ranging from 15 to 79% and fermentation titers from 6.8 to 29.6 mM. Additionally, a strong inverse correlation (R2 = 0.8) between conversion efficiency and lignin content was observed with lower lignin samples more easily converted and solubilized by C. bescii. Feedstock recalcitrance can be significantly reduced with transgenic plants, but finding the correct modification may require a large sample set to identify the most advantageous genetic modifications for the feedstock. Utilizing C. bescii as a screening assay for recalcitrance, poplar lines with down-regulation of coumarate 3-hydroxylase 3 (C3H3) resulted in the highest degrees of solubilization and conversion by C. bescii. One such line, with a growth phenotype similar to the wild-type, generated more than three times the fermentation products of the wild-type poplar control, suggesting that excellent digestibility can be achieved without compromising fitness of the tree.
Meeting the Needs of Mid-Career Women in Academic Medicine: One Model Career Development Program.

Background: A gender gap in leadership exists in academic medicine. Medical school faculty rosters indicate an overrepresentation of women in entry-level positions. As positions increase in seniori...
Influence of nursing intervention on the obedience of rabies patients in completeing the entire process of rabies vaccination

Objective To investigate the influence of systematized nursing intervention on increasing the obedience of rabies patients throughout the comprehensive vaccination.Methods 1392 cases of rabies patients who were infected by dogs or other animals treated in dog injury outpatient at our center from July 2010 to June 2011,were randomly divided into an experimental group and a control group,each with 696 cases.The intervention nursing measures were implemented to the experimental group,which included vaccination record book,intensive psychological counseling and health education,enquiry hotline service and random telephone interviews etc.The conventional rabies vaccination notification advice and verbal explanation on health education were applied to the control group without random telephone interviews.Results The obedience of the experimental group during the rabies vaccination was remarkably enhanced compared to that of the control group (P＜0.01).Conclusion The implement of systematized hohstic nursing intervention on the patients is of positive significance to strengthen the obedience of patients to complete the entire process of rabies vaccination. Key words: Nursing intervention; Rabies; Vaccination; Entire process; Obedience
Tax Avoidance through Cross-Border Mergers and Acquisitions

We investigate 13,458 cross-border, tax-haven mergers and acquisitions (M&A) from 1990 to 2017, totaling $4.2 trillion in deal value. These M&A result in $32.9 billion in recurring annual tax avoidance. $2.4 trillion of haven M&A is beyond what is predicted based on a gravity model with economic fundamentals. Moreover, we improve the measurement of a key data item in tax research–a firm’s tax residence–through a novel algorithm that embeds the residency laws of 150 countries and the associated tie-breaking provisions. We reassign the tax residence of a considerable fraction of firms relative to standard assignments.
Intravitreal methotrexate and fluocinolone acetonide implantation for Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada uveitis.

Abstract Purpose To report a case of intravitreal methotrexate treatment and fluocinolone acetonide (Retisert®) implantation in a patient with Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada syndrome (VKH). Observations A 34-year-old male was referred for worsening vision and bilateral panuveitis consistent with VKH. He was treated with prednisone, mycophenolate mofetil, prednisolone acetate eye drops, and injections of triamcinolone and adalimumab. He failed to improve with these therapies and developed multiple adverse effects, including hepatotoxicity, severe eye pain, cataracts, and cystoid macular edema. We treated him with intravitreal methotrexate injections in both eyes, which rapidly improved his eye pain, inflammation, and vision. He subsequently underwent fluocinolone acetonide (Retisert®) implantation, cataract extraction with intraocular lens insertion, and Ahmed tube placement for long-term intraocular pressure control. His vision improved from hand motions to 20/30, intraocular pressure remained stable at 17, there was complete resolution of his panuveitis and uveitic macular edema, and his systemic medications were able to be discontinued. Conclusions /Importance: This case demonstrates intravitreal methotrexate may successfully treat intraocular inflammation, pain, and macular edema in VKH. Excellent long-term vision and reduction of adverse effects of systemic medications were also achieved with subsequent fluocinolone acetonide implantation. Combining these two targeted therapies may be an effective strategy in treating VKH in patients who have severe pain and cannot tolerate systemic therapy.
Reverence in Classroom Teaching

Background/ContextOur article develops insights from Paul Woodruff's book, Reverence: Renewing a Forgotten Virtue (Oxford University Press, 2001), to discuss reverence in teaching. We show how reve...
Blood mRNA levels of T cells and IgE receptors are novel non-invasive biomarkers for eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE).

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is often misdiagnosed as GERD; therefore, the goal of the current study is to establish a non-invasive diagnostic and monitoring biomarker that differentiated GERD from EoE. Reports indicates that IL-15 responsive iNKT cells and tissue specific IgE have a critical in EoE pathogenesis, not in GERD. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that the panel of IL-15-responsive T cell and IgE receptors may be novel non-invasive biomarkers for EoE. Accordingly, the receptors of IL-15 responsive T cells (Vα24, Jα18, γδT, αβT) and IgE (FceRI & FceRII) were examined. The data indicates that blood mRNA levels of Vα24, Jα18, γδ T, αβ T and FceRI are significantly reduced in EoE compared to the GERD patients and normal individuals. The ROC curve analysis indicated FceRII, Jα18 and δ TCR are the positive predictors that discriminate EoE from GERD. Thus, these molecules will be a novel non-invasive diagnostic biomarker for EoE.
Microbial synthesis of wax esters.

Abstract Microbial synthesis of wax esters (WE) from low-cost renewable and sustainable feedstocks is a promising path to achieve cost-effectiveness in biomanufacturing. WE are industrially high-value molecules, which are widely used for applications in chemical, pharmaceutical, and food industries. Since the natural WE resources are limited, the WE production mostly rely on chemical synthesis from rather expensive starting materials, and therefore solution are sought from development of efficient microbial cell factories. Here we report to engineer the yeast Yarrowia lipolytica and bacterium Escherichia coli to produce WE at the highest level up to date. First, the key genes encoding fatty acyl-CoA reductases and wax ester synthase from different sources were investigated, and the expression system for two different Y. lipolytica hosts were compared and optimized for enhanced WE production and the strain stability. To improve the metabolic pathway efficiency, different carbon sources including glucose, free fatty acid, soybean oil, and waste cooking oil (WCO) were compared, and the corresponding pathway engineering strategies were optimized. It was found that using a lipid substrate such as WCO to replace glucose led to a 60-fold increase in WE production. The engineered yeast was able to produce 7.6 g/L WE with a yield of 0.31 (g/g) from WCO within 120 h and the produced WE contributed to 57% of the yeast DCW. After that, E. coli BL21(DE3), with a faster growth rate than the yeast, was engineered to significantly improve the WE production rate. Optimization of the expression system and the substrate feeding strategies led to production of 3.7–4.0 g/L WE within 40 h in a 1-L bioreactor. The predominant intracellular WE produced by both Y. lipolytica and E. coli in the presence of hydrophobic substrates as sole carbon sources were C36, C34 and C32, in an order of decreasing abundance and with a large proportion being unsaturated. This work paved the way for the biomanufacturing of WE at a large scale.
The magnitude of energy transition risk embedded in fossil fuel company valuations.

Abstract This paper examines ExxonMobil, a widely-followed, mature, large oil and gas producer using discounted cash flow valuation modeling under two scenarios: “Business as usual”; and an adequate climate policy response that would limit warming to 1.5C. The analysis across the last two decades shows the market continues to price in a “business as usual” future. ExxonMobil's overvaluation, relative to an adequate policy response scenario, has increased (pre-pandemic) from 50% to 70% of equity value at risk. Investors are taking significant energy transition risk without meaningful compensation. To avoid continued capital misallocation, negative externalities should be incorporated into underwriting.
Opioid and Cocaine Abuse and Dependence Disorders

Historically, conceptualizations of substance abuse and the psychopathology associated with addictive behaviors have varied depending on the sociopolitical climate (Sutker & Allain, 1988). As drug-taking behaviors unfold within the societal Zeitgeist, patterns of substance abuse shift to parallel contemporary fashions, moods, and sanctions. Over the past several decades, drugs of choice have included psychedelics in the early 1960s, cannabis in the middle to late 1960s, heroin in the early to mid 1970s, and cocaine in the late 1970s and 1980s (Zinberg, 1987). Abuse of cocaine in its new, more potent forms continues to escalate in the 1990s. Currently, cocaine accounts for the majority of drug treatment referrals (Kleber, 1988) and drug abuse-related emergency room admissions (National Institute on Drug Abuse [NIDA], 1988). A gradual resurgence in popularity of opioids also has been reported (NIDA, 1989b), prompting researchers to speculate that the cocaine epidemic will be followed by a resurgence of opioid abuse (Arif, 1987; Pinkney, 1989). In addition, Pollack, Brotman, and Rosenbaum (1989) have described a steady increase in “speedball” abuse (ingestion of a mixture of cocaine and heroin). The purpose of this chapter is to describe the psychopathology associated with use of the two most prevalent and addictive types of illicit substances: the opioids and cocaine in its several popular forms.
Anaerobic Metabolism of Cyclohex-1-Ene-1-Carboxylate, a Proposed Intermediate of Benzoate Degradation, by Rhodopseudomonas palustris

Anaerobic benzoate degradation by the phototrophic bacterium Rhodopseudomonas palustris has been proposed to proceed via aromatic ring reduction reactions leading to cyclohex-1-ene-1-carboxyl-coenzyme A (CoA) formation. The alicyclic product is then proposed to undergo three β-oxidation-like modifications resulting in ring cleavage. Illuminated suspensions of benzoate-grown cells converted [7-14C]cyclohex-1-ene-1-carboxylate to intermediates that comigrated with cyclohex-1-ene-1-carboxyl-CoA, 2-hydroxycyclohexanecar-boxyl-CoA, 2-ketocyclohexanecarboxyl-CoA, and pimelyl-CoA by thin-layer chromatography. This set of intermediates was also formed by cells grown anaerobically or aerobically on cyclohex-1-ene-1-carboxylate, indicating that benzoate-grown and cyclohex-1-ene-1-carboxylate-grown cells degrade this alicyclic acid by the same catabolic route. Four enzymatic activities proposed to be required for conversion of cyclohex-1-ene-1-carboxylate to pimelyl-CoA were detected at 3- to 10-fold-higher levels in benzoate-grown cells than in succinate-grown cells. These were cyclohex-1-ene-1-carboxylate-CoA ligase, cyclohex-1-ene-1-carboxyl-CoA hydratase, 2-hydroxycyclohexanecarboxyl-CoA dehydrogenase, and 2-ketocyclohexanecarboxyl-CoA hydrolase (ring cleaving). Pimelyl-CoA was identified in hydrolase reaction mixtures as the product of alicyclic ring cleavage. The results provide a first demonstration of an alicyclic ring cleavage activity.
Mice lacking the folic acid-binding protein Folbp1 are defective in early embryonic development.

Periconceptional folic acid supplementation reduces the occurrence of several human congenital malformations, including craniofacial, heart and neural tube defects1,2,3,4. Although the underlying mechanism is unknown, there may be a maternal-to-fetal folate-transport defect or an inherent fetal biochemical disorder that is neutralized by supplementation. Previous experiments have identified a folate-binding protein5,6,7 (Folbp1) that functions as a membrane receptor to mediate the high-affinity internalization and delivery of folate to the cytoplasm of the cell8,9,10. In vitro, this receptor facilitates the accumulation of cellular folate a thousand-fold relative to the media, suggesting that it may be essential in cytoplasmic folate delivery in vivo. The importance of an adequate intracellular folate pool for normal embryogenesis has long been recognized in humans11,12,13,14,15,16 and experimental animals17,18,19. To determine whether Folbp1 is involved in maternal-to-fetal folate transport, we inactivated Folbp1 in mice. We also produced mice lacking Folbp2, another member of the folate receptor family that is GPI anchored but binds folate poorly20. Folbp2–/– embryos developed normally, but Folbp1–/– embryos had severe morphogenetic abnormalities and died in utero by embryonic day (E) 10. Supplementing pregnant Folbp1+/– dams with folinic acid reversed this phenotype in nullizygous pups. Our results suggest that Folbp1 has a critical role in folate homeostasis during development, and that functional defects in the human homologue (FOLR1) of Folbp1 may contribute to similar defects in humans.
Lamellar, micro-phase separated blends of methyl cellulose and dendritic polyethylene glycol, POSS-PEG

Blends of methyl cellulose (MC) and liquid pegylated polyoctahedralsilsesquioxane (POSS-PEG) were prepared from non-gelled, aqueous solutions at room temperature (RT), which was below their gel temperatures (Tm). Lamellar, fibrillated films (pure MC) and increasingly micro-porous morphologies with increasing POSS-PEG content were formed, which had RT moduli between 1 and 5GPa. Evidence of distinct micro-phase separated MC and POSS-PEG domains was indicated by the persistence of the MC and POSS-PEG (at 77K) crystal structures in the X-ray diffraction data, and scanning transmission electron images. Mixing of MC and POSS-PEG in the interface region was indicated by suppression of crystallinity in the POSS-PEG, and increases/decreases in the glass transition temperatures (Tg) of POSS-PEG/MC in the blends compared with the pure components. These interface interactions may serve as cross-link sites between the micro-phase separated domains that permit incorporation of high amounts of POSS-PEG in the blends, prevent macro-phase separation and result in rubbery material properties (at high POSS-PEG content). Above Tg/Tm of POSS-PEG, the moduli of the blends increase with MC content as expected. However, below Tg/Tm of POSS-PEG, the moduli are greater for blends with high POSS-PEG content, suggesting that it behaves like semi-crystalline polyethylene oxide reinforced with silica (SiO1.5).
Measurement of pH

The measurement of pH is one of the most basic and necessary skills in a life science laboratory. The function and physical characteristics of biological molecules are highly sensitive to the pH of the environment. Common biological buffers must be prepared with the appropriate pH, usually close to neutral for most biological applications. This unit includes a discussion of the different pH instrumentation, notably pH electrodes. It also relates basic pH measurement theory to critical parameters for the technique, and covers the correct use, handling, and storage of pH instruments. Curr. Protoc. Essential Lab. Tech. 3:3.2.1-3.2.16. © 2010 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Keywords: electrode; meter; calibration; Nernst; electrical potential
Flash memory BIOS for PC and notebook computers

The author describes a flash memory device used to store the basic input/output system (BIOS) of a PC or notebook computer. Rapidly increasing computer complexity requires rapid and convenient BIOS modifications. BIOS code can be stored in ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, bulk erasable flash memory, or block erasable flash memory. Updating BIOS stored in ROM or EPROM requires much time and money. BIOS storage does not require EEPROM's feature of byte erasure. Rapid and inexpensive BIOS revisions can be accomplished in flash memory with update software provided on a desk or by modem. Block erasable flash memory provides the capability of BIOS updates while providing boot and recovery code protected from inadvertent program or erasure. BIOS code is easily updated in flash memory containing an internal program and erase sequence controller. A 1-Mb block erasable flash memory with an internal program and erase sequence controller is an ideal storage medium for PC and notebook computer BIOS code. >
Three-Dimensional Sonography of the Endometrium and Adjacent Myometrium Preliminary Observations

Objective By evaluating a series of patients undergoing pelvic sonography with routine 2-dimensional (2D) as well as 3-dimensional (3D) reconstructed images in the coronal plane, we attempted to characterize the types of additional information that can be obtained. Methods Ninety randomly selected patients undergoing transvaginal pelvic sonography were imaged according to a standard 2D protocol. A 3D uterine volume was then acquired in the sagittal plane and reconstructed in the coronal plane. The endometrium and surrounding myometrium were evaluated for architecture, masses, the relationship of masses to the endometrial cavity, and the anatomic configuration of the cavity. Results Ninety-one studies were obtained. Additional findings were obtained on the coronal view in 28 studies (30.8%). No additional findings were obtained in 63 studies (69.2%). Normal endometrial and myometrial findings were obtained by conventional 2D imaging in 42 of 91 patients. Of this group, additional findings were shown in 2 (5%) patients. Forty-nine of the 91 patients had abnormal findings by 2D imaging. Additional information was obtained in 26 (53%) of these patients. Added information included uterine anomalies, better definition of the endometrium, more accurate delineation and location of endometrial polyps, location of leiomyomas, visualization of cystic areas within the myometrium, and confirmation of the location of intrauterine devices. Conclusions The 3D reconstructed view of the endometrium and adjacent myometrium appears to be most helpful after a conventional transvaginal study, showing abnormalities within the endometrium and myometrium but being of little added benefit if the conventional findings are normal.
New Ultraviolet Observations of AM CVn

We have obtained observations of the ultraviolet spectrum of AM CVn, an ultrashort-period helium cataclysmic variable, using the Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph aboard the Hubble Space Telescope (HST). We obtained data in time-tag mode during two consecutive orbits of HST, covering 1600-3150 and 1140-1710 A, respectively. The mean spectrum is approximately flat in fν. The absorption profiles of the strong lines of N V, Si IV, C IV, He II, and N IV are blueshifted and in some cases asymmetric, evidencing a wind that is partly occulted by the accretion disk. There is weak redshifted emission from N V and He II. The profiles of these lines vary mildly with time. The light curve shows a decline of ~20% over the span of the observations. There is also flickering and a 27 s (or 54 s) "dwarf nova oscillation," revealed in a power-spectrum analysis. The amplitude of this oscillation is larger at shorter wavelengths. We assemble and illustrate the spectral energy distribution of AM CVn from the ultraviolet to the near-infrared. Modeling the accretion phenomenon in this binary system can in principle lead to a robust estimate of the mass accretion rate on to the central white dwarf, which is of great interest in characterizing the evolutionary history of the binary system. Inferences about the mass accretion rate depend strongly on the local radiative properties of the disk, as we illustrate. Uncertainty in the distance of AM CVn and other parameters of the binary system currently limit the ability to confidently infer the mass accretion rate.
CONFORMAL TRANSFORMATIONS OF COMPACT SELF-DUAL MANIFOLDS

We prove that when the dimension of the group of conformal transformations of a compact self-dual manifold is at least three, the conformal class contains either a metric with positive constant scalar curvature or a metric with zero scalar curvature. This result is combined with a topological classification of 4-manifolds to provide a complete geometrical classification of the compact self-dual manifolds whose symmetry group is at least three-dimensional.
Epithelium‐lining macrophages in psoriasis

Summary Epithelium-lining macrophages are spindle-shaped cells which line the epidermis and hair follicles. We studied the distribution and phenotype of this hitherto neglected member of the dermal monocyte/macrophage system in 25 lesional psoriatic, and five normal skin biopsies. Epithelium-lining macrophages were inconspicuous in normal skin, whereas their number was increased in almost two thirds of psoriatic cases; in nine out of 25 lesional skin biopsies, these flattened cells formed an almost continuous single-cell row at the dermo-epidermal junction. Immunophenotyping revealed that these cells expressed the leucocyte common antigen CD45. and the macrophage markers CD14, CD36 and CD4, but not CD11b. Epithelium-lining macrophages strongly expressed HLA-DR-antigens and CD 11a, but lacked the Langerhans cell marker CD1, and CD34. The dermal dendrocyte marker factor XIIIa was expressed in only a minority of these cells. It is concluded that epithelium-lining macrophages represent a separate subset of dermal monocytes/macrophages with a distinct tissue localizaton and immunophenotype. Their restricted distribution and close association with the epidermis may suggest a role in the regulation of epidermal growth. Alternatively, the expression of several immune-associated molecules may indicate that epithelium-lining macrophages are involved in the antigen-dependent or-independent activation of T cell.
Exotische Atome: Protonium

Das Protonium gehort zur Gruppe der „exotischen” wasserstoffahnlichen Atome, bei denen das Hullenelektron durch ein Antiproton ersetzt ist.
Adsorption to starch of a β-galactosidase fusion protein containing the starch-binding region of Aspergillus glucoamylase

Abstract We have constructed and purified by affinity chromatography three β-galactosidase (βGal) fusion proteins (BSB133, BSBCD8, and BGA 134) containing amino acid (aa) sequences from Aspergillus glucoamylase (GA). BSB 133, containing the C-terminal 133 aa of GA (aa 484–616), adhered to native starch granules with a much higher affinity (Kad = 18 ml/g starch) than a βGal control (Kad = 0.9 ml/g starch). Two other fusion proteins, BSBCD8 and BGA134, similar in size to BSB133, adhered to starch with a relatively low affinity (Kad = 7 ml/g starch, and Kad = 4 ml/g starch, respectively). B SBCD8 differs from BSB 133 by a truncation of 8 aa at the C terminus. BGA134 contains 134 aafrom an overlapping region of GA (aa 380–513). These results confirm the presence of a strong starch-binding region (SBR) included in the C-terminal 133 aa of GA and indicate that the SBR can confer starch-binding activity on a fusion protein produced in Escherichia coli. In the presence of crude soluble cell extracts, the fusion proteins adsorbed by native starch granules with an affinity similar to that of the purified enzymes. BSB133 that had been adsorbed by starch from crude extracts could be eluted at a high level of purity, similar to that achieved by affinity chromatography. These results suggest that it may be feasible to use native starch as an adsorbent for the recovery and purification of recombinant fusion proteins containing the SBR. Starch has many favorable qualities for this application: it is inexpensive, stable, nontoxic, and easy to recover by centrifugation.
Effect of dietary fish oil, vitamin E, and probucol on renal injury in the rat ☆

Abstract Dietary fish oil, vitamin E, and probucol have been considered in a variety of human and experimental models of kidney disease. Using subtotal nephrectomized cholesterol-fed rats as a model for progressive kidney disease, we examined the effect of 5% dietary fish oil, or a combination of 5% dietary fish oil with 500 IU vitamin E/kg diet or 1% probucol on renal injury. Three-month-old Sprague Dawley rats were fed a control diet (C group) or a cholesterol supplemented (2%) diet (Ch group) containing either fish oil (FO group) or fish oil plus vitamin E (FO+E group) or fish oil plus probucol (FO+P group). After 4 weeks of dietary treatment, the right kidney was electrocoagulated and the left kidney nephrectomized. After 8 weeks, 24-hour urine was collected before sacrifice. No effect of the dietary treatments was noted on serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, or proteinuria, except that proteinuria was highest in FO+P group. Rats receiving the cholesterol diets had higher serum low density lipoprotein (LDL) + very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol ( P
Dissociable effects of the cannabinoid receptor agonists Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and CP55940 on pain-stimulated versus pain-depressed behavior in rats

Cannabinoid receptor agonists produce reliable antinociception in most preclinical pain assays but have inconsistent analgesic efficacy in humans. This disparity suggests that conventional preclinical assays of nociception are not sufficient for the prediction of cannabinoid effects related to clinical analgesia. To extend the range of preclinical cannabinoid assessment, this study compared the effects of the marijuana constituent and low-efficacy cannabinoid agonist Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and the high-efficacy synthetic cannabinoid agonist 3-(2-hydroxy-4-(1,1-dimethylheptyl)phenyl)-4-(3-hydroxypropyl)cyclohexanol (CP55940) in assays of pain-stimulated and pain-depressed behavior. Intraperitoneal injection of dilute lactic acid (1.8% in 1 ml/kg) stimulated a stretching response or depressed intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS) in separate groups of male Sprague-Dawley rats. THC (0.1–10 mg/kg) and CP55940 (0.0032–0.32 mg/kg) dose-dependently blocked acid- stimulated stretching but only exacerbated acid-induced depression of ICSS at doses that also decreased control ICSS in the absence of a noxious stimulus. Repeated THC produced tolerance to sedative rate-decreasing effects of THC on control ICSS in the absence of the noxious stimulus but failed to unmask antinociception in the presence of the noxious stimulus. THC and CP55940 also failed to block pain-related depression of feeding in rats, although THC did attenuate satiation-related depression of feeding. In contrast to the effects of the cannabinoid agonists, the clinically effective analgesic and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug ketoprofen (1 mg/kg) blocked acid-stimulated stretching and acid-induced depression of both ICSS and feeding. The poor efficacy of THC and CP55940 to block acute pain-related depression of behavior in rats agrees with the poor efficacy of cannabinoids to treat acute pain in humans.
Improved sensitivity of chromogenic substrate assays for urokinase and plasmin.

Abstract Commercially available synthetic substrates for the fibrinolytic enzymes plasmin and urokinase yield 4-nitroaniline during hydrolysis. A method is described for intensifying the color of this chromogen produced during enzyme catalyzed amidolysis of these synthetic chromogenic substrates. The liberated chromogen is diazotized and coupled with N-(1-Naphthyl)-ethylenediamine dihydrochloride to yield a colored complex with absorption maximum at 545 nm and a molar absorbancy of 4.54 × 10 4 . This contrasts with an absorption maximum of 380 nm and a molar absorbancy at 405 nm of only 9850 for the 4-nitroaniline. When combined with a modification of the assay procedure a substantial increase in sensitivity can be obtained. This method is applicable to all synthetic substrates which use 4-nitroaniline as chromogen when amplification of the color yield is desired.
Band structure, optical properties, and compton profile of copper

Abstract A self-consistent calculation of the band structure of copper has been performed using a basis of gaussian orbitals and a local exchange-correlation potential. Results are also presented for the optical conductivity and the Compton profile.
Simple reflection measurement of nonlinear optical activity using silicon as an electrode

ABSTRACT Future generations of photonic devices which incorporate poled organic nonlinear optical materials may be aided by, or require the use of non-traditional electrodes. This report details the integration of highly doped silicon as one of the poling/modulating electrodes in the simple reflection type experiment for determination of nonlinear optical activity in a guest-host polymer system. The measurements illustrate that the behavior of doped-silicon and the traditional indium tin oxide (ITO) coated glass electrodes are analogous. Results demonstrate both successful poling and subsequent modulation of NLO materials using a silicon electrode, including the calculation of r 33 values comparable or exceeding those achieved using a standard ITO electrode. Keywords: electro-optic polymer, nonlinear optical polymer, silicon electrode, poling 1. INTRODUCTION Recent progress has seen the electro-optic (EO) activity of specially designed polymer systems achive new highs, easily surpassing lithium-niobate by a factor of at least two with respect to the critical figure of merit for the field, the electro-optic coefficient, r