cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The primary structure of Peptostreptococcus elsdenii flavodoxin.

The amino acid sequence and the studies which led to the complete sequence determination of the Peptostreptococcus elsdenii flavodoxin are presented in this report. The sequence of the flavodoxin is of interest since it is the first flavoprotein whose sequence has been determined completely. The P. elsdenii flavodoxin is a FMN protein containing 137 amino acids. This single polypeptide chain protein was shown to have the sequence [see PDF for sequence]
Removing left recursion from context-free grammars

A long-standing issue regarding algorithms that manipulate context-free grammars (CFGs) in a "top-down" left-to-right fashion is that left recursion can lead to nontermination. An algorithm is known that transforms any CFG into an equivalent nonleft-recursive CFG, but the resulting grammars are often too large for practical use. We present a new method for removing left recursion from CFGs that is both theoretically superior to the standard algorithm, and produces very compact non-left-recursive CFGs in practice.
The Structure of Group Relaxations

Abstract The study and solution of mixed-integer programming problems is of great interest, because they arise in a variety of mathematical and practical applications. Today's state-of-art software packages for solving mixed-integer programs based on linear programming include preprocessing, branch-and-bound, and cutting planes techniques. The main purpose of this article is to describe these components and recent developments that can be found in many solvers. Besides linear programming based relaxation methods we also discuss Langrangean, Dantzig-Wolfe and Benders’ decomposition and their interrelations.
Patterns in the sand

When shaken, sand and other granular materials can form into a variety of patterns — squares, stripes and hexagons, for instance — depending on a variety of factors. The dynamics of this behaviour are poorly understood, but a new and quite simple model has been formulated that reproduces the patterns. Moreover it predicts that a particular arrangement, composed of isosceles triangles and not yet seen in experiments, should exist under certain circumstances.
DENSITY AND SECRETORY ACTIVITY OF ECCRINE SWEAT GLANDS IN PATIENTS WITH CYSTIC FIBROSIS AND IN HEALTHY CONTROLS

The number of active sweat glands was observed in patients with cystic fibrosis and healthy, age-matched controls following stimulation of sweating on the inner forearm surface by pilocarpine iontophoresis. Though gland density appeared to be higher and more variable in cystic fibrosis, statistical analysis of this relationship was inconclusive but did not allow a rejection of the hypothesis that patients have higher gland densities at a given age than controls. The amount of sweat produced in cystic fibrosis was related to the number of active glands; this was not true of controls. The parameter of gland density, added to the previously described sweat test procedure, has allowed calculation of the average sweat output per gland on the forearm. This output increased with increasing age in both controls and patients with cystic fibrosis.
FITNESS CONSEQUENCES OF GENETICALLY ENGINEERED HERBICIDE AND ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE IN ARABIDOPSIS THALIANA

Researchers have often invoked the concept of metabolic drain to explain the lower growth rates of bacteria containing plasmids that confer antibiotic resistance. This idea posits that the energetic input needed to produce detoxifying enzymes diverts resources from clonal reproduction. In this paper we examine whether the concept of metabolic drain can be applied successfully to plants that differ from bacteria in several key aspects including their relative genome size and reproductive rate. We have conducted a field experiment using mutant and transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana that allows the comparison of genotypes differing by a single gene conferring resistance to either the herbicide chlorsulfuron or the antibiotic kanamycin. In addition to testing whether these traits reduce fitness, this experiment was conducted at two levels of resource availability to examine whether costs of resistance are sensitive to environmental quality. We found that herbicide-resistant individuals produced 26% fewer seeds than susceptible counterparts. However, contrasting published results in bacterial systems, the fecundity of individuals was completely unaffected by the expression of an introduced antibiotic resistance gene. The fitness cost associated with chlorsulfuron resistance was greater in nutrient-poor conditions relative to nutrient-rich conditions for comparisons involving mutant, but not transgenic, genotypes.
Dysregulation of IFN-γ Signaling Pathways in the Absence of TGF-β1

Deficiency of TGF-beta1 is associated with immune dysregulation and autoimmunity as exemplified by the multifocal inflammatory lesions and early demise of the TGF-beta1 null mice. Elevated NO metabolites (nitrite and nitrate) in the plasma of these mice suggest a participatory role of NO in the pathogenic inflammatory response. To determine the mechanism for this dysregulation, we examined upstream elements that could contribute to the overexpression of NO, including inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and transcription factors Stat1alpha and IFN-regulatory factor-1 (IRF-1). The coincident up-regulation of IFN-gamma, an iNOS inducer, and iNOS, before the appearance of inflammatory lesions, suggests that failed regulation of the IFN-gamma signaling pathway may underlie the immunological disorder in TGF-beta1 null mice. In fact, IFN-gamma-driven transcription factors IRF-1 and Stat1alpha, both of which act as transcriptional activators of iNOS, were elevated in the null mice. Treatment of mice with a polyclonal anti-IFN-gamma Ab reduced expression and activity not only of transcription factors Stat1alpha and IRF-1 but also of iNOS. Furthermore, anti-IFN-gamma treatment delayed the cachexia normally seen in TGF-beta1 null mice and increased their longevity. The global nature of immune dysregulation in TGF-beta1 null mice documents TGF-beta1 as an essential immunoregulatory molecule.
In-situ enumeration and probing of pyrene-degrading soil bacteria

Inferences about which microorganisms degrade polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in contaminated soils have largely been obtained using culture-based techniques, despite the low percentage of microorganisms in soil that are believed to be culturable. We used a substrate-responsive direct viable count method to identify and quantify potential polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria in a soil containing petroleum wastes. Bacteria were extracted and their response to substrates determined in the presence of DNA gyrase inhibitors, which cause viable and active cells to elongate. When yeast extract, a widely used carbon source, was added as a growth substrate, together with nalidixic acid, piromidic acid and ciprofloxacin, a significant increase in elongated cells to 47%, 37% and 22%, respectively, was observed within 24 h. With pyrene as the main substrate, 10 mg L(-1) of nalidixic acid or piromidic acid caused 18-22% and 8-12%, respectively, of the cells to elongate within 24 h; whereas the effect of 0.5 mg L(-1) ciprofloxacin was not significant until 53 h later. Enlarged cells were identified and enumerated by fluorescent in situ hybridization, using Alpha-, Beta- and Gammaproteobacteria, and domain Bacteria-specific probes. The Bacteria-specific probe detected 35-71% of the total microorganisms detected by the DNA-binding dye 4,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole. Initially, 44%, 13% and 5% of the total bacteria in the soil extract were Alpha-, Beta- and Gammaproteobacteria, respectively. Without pyrene or a gyrase inhibitor, these subgroups decreased to 30% of the total population but were predominant with piromidic acid or unchanged with ciprofloxacin when pyrene was the main substrate. The proportion of elongated Alpha- and Betaproteobacteria (potential pyrene degraders) increased significantly (P<0.05). This approach links phylogenetic information with physiological function in situ without the conventional cultivation of bacteria and can be used to probe and enumerate degradative groups at even a finer level of discrimination.
Maternal and neonatal risk factors associated with vertical transmission of ophthalmia neonatorum in neonates receiving health care in Blantyre, Malawi.

Context: Neonatal conjunctivitis is associated with poor prenatal care worldwide. Purpose: Data on neonatal conjunctivitis is scarce in Malawi. This study describes risk factors associated with conjunctivitis in neonates born in a large tertiary care hospital in Blantyre, Malawi. Materials and Methods: Medical records of a retrospective cohort of 231 neonates diagnosed with conjunctivitis from January 2006 to December 2009 at a large tertiary hospital in Malawi were reviewed. All subjects were clinically diagnosed with ophthalmia neonatorum. Data were collected on patient demographics and clinical features. The frequencies were calculated of various risk factors in neonates with ophthalmia neonatorum and their mothers as well as the treatments administered. Results: Mean age of the mother was 23.45 years (range, 15-40 years), and the mean number of previous deliveries was 2.3 (range, 1-7) children. Nearly, 80% of mothers delivered preterm infants via spontaneous vaginal delivery. The mean birth weight of neonates was 2869.6 grams (1100-5000 grams). Among mothers, premature rupture of membranes was the leading risk factor (24%) followed by sepsis during labor (9%), and history of sexually transmitted infections (STI) (7%). Neonates presented with low Apgar scores (19%), fever (8%), and/or meconium aspiration (5%). Providers treated patients empirically with a varied combination of benzyl penicillin, gentamicin, tetracycline eye ointment, and saline eye wash. Tetracycline with a saline eyewash was used frequently (34%) compared with combinations of benzyl penicillin and gentamicin. Conclusions: Improving prenatal care to reduce sepsis, traumatic deliveries, and early diagnosis of STI with appropriate treatment may potentially reduce vertical transmission of neonatal conjunctivitis in this understudied population.
Coal fly ash interaction with environmental fluids: Geochemical and strontium isotope results from combined column and batch leaching experiments

Abstract The major element and Sr isotope systematics and geochemistry of coal fly ash and its interactions with environmental waters were investigated using laboratory flow-through column leaching experiments (sodium carbonate, acetic acid, nitric acid) and sequential batch leaching experiments (water, acetic acid, hydrochloric acid). Column leaching of Class F fly ash samples shows rapid release of most major elements early in the leaching procedure, suggesting an association of these elements with soluble and surface bound phases. Delayed release of certain elements (e.g., Al, Fe, Si) signals gradual dissolution of more resistant silicate or glass phases as leaching continues. Strontium isotope results from both column and batch leaching experiments show a marked increase in 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratio with continued leaching, yielding a total range of values from 0.7107 to 0.7138. For comparison, the isotopic composition of fluid output from a fly ash impoundment in West Virginia falls in a narrow range around 0.7124. The experimental data suggest the presence of a more resistant, highly radiogenic silicate phase that survives the combustion process and is leached after the more soluble minerals are removed. Strontium isotopic homogenization of minerals in coal does not always occur during the combustion process, despite the high temperatures encountered in the boiler. Early-released Sr tends to be isotopically uniform; thus the Sr isotopic composition of fly ash could be distinguishable from other sources and is a useful tool for quantifying the possible contribution of fly ash leaching to the total dissolved load in natural surface and ground waters.
Hyperbaric oxygen and wound healing

Abstract Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) involves the administrtion of oxygen in an environment where the ambient pressure has been increased. The ensuing hyperoxia and elevated pressure have a number of beneficial clinical effects, including the promotion of wound healing. When HBOT is used repetitively, it can become an expensive treatment modality. Therefore, in wound patients it can be cost effective only in extraordinary circumstances. In the acute wound, it can be a useful adjunct in the treatment of some life- or limb-threatening situations. In treating a chronic wound, it can be useful in specific settings in which a wound has been truly refractory to appropriate local medical and surgical care. This article is not a comprehensive review of hyperbaric medicine. Outstanding reviews of diving medicine 1–4 and clinical hyperbaric medicine 5–8 have already been written. This review examines the relevance of HBOT to wound management. It is necessary, however, to preface this review with a brief discussion of the background, basic physics, and physiology of HBOT.
Thermodynamic Modeling of Aqueous Aluminum Chemistry and Solid-Liquid Equilibria to High Solution Concentration and Temperature. I. The Acidic H-Al-Na-K-Cl-H2O System from 0 to 100 °C

In this paper, we describe the development of a thermodynamic model that calculates solute/solvent activities and solid-liquid equilibria in the acidic aluminum system, H-Al3+-Na-K-Cl-H2O, to high molality from 0 ° to ≈100 °C. The model incorporates the concentration-dependent, specific interaction equations for aqueous solutions of Pitzer (Activity Coefficients in Electrolyte Solutions, 2nd edn., pp. 75–153, CRC Press, Boca Raton, 1991). Parameterization of this model adds Al3+ specific interactions in the binary Al-Cl-H2O and ternary Al-H-Cl-H2O, Al-Na-Cl-H2O and Al-K-Cl-H2O systems as well as the standard chemical potentials of AlCl3⋅6H2O(s) and Al(OH)3(s) (gibbsite) in the 0 ° to 100 °C range to our variable temperature (0–250 °C) model of acid-base reactions in the H-Na-K-OH-Cl-HSO4-SO4-H2O system (Christov and Moller in Geochim. Cosmochim. Acta 68:1309, 2004). In constructing our aluminum model, we used Emf, osmotic, equilibrium constant and solubility data. New Emf measurements using the cell Pt|H2(g, 101.325 kPa)|HCl(m 1), AlCl3(m 2)|AgCl(s)|Ag|Pt at temperatures ranging from 0 to 45 °C and at total ionic strength ranging from 0.1 to 3 mol⋅kg−1 are presented. Gibbsite and boehmite, AlOOH(s), solubility data are used in testing the model. Limitations of the model due to data insufficiencies are discussed.
Response of filtered eyes to digital ocular pressure

Abstract Purpose: To examine the effect of digital ocular pressure (DOP) on the intraocular pressure (IOP) of eyes 3 months or longer after successful glaucoma filtering surgery. Methods: Fifteen patients participated in this study. Each had one eye with a successful filtering operation (IOP ≤ 21 mmHg without medications) and a fellow eye that was not operated on, which served as a control. The authors measured IOP in both eyes before and serially after DOP until return to baseline or for 3 hours to determine the amounts and durations of reductions. The authors monitored changes of bleb morphology and searched for complications. Results: Digital ocular pressure 3 months or more after successful filtering surgery reduced IOP by approximately 50% of baseline. The time after DOP for 50% of eyes to have intraocular pressure return to within 2 mmHg of baseline was 95 minutes; 40% recovered within 20 minutes and 30% had not recovered by 3 hours. Eyes with localized blebs recovered faster than did eyes with diffuse blebs. Transient shallowing of the anterior chamber developed in one eye. Otherwise, there were no adverse effects. Time since surgery and baseline IOP were not correlated with response. Fellow eyes had minimal response to DOP and recovered within 30 minutes. Conclusion: This study shows that a substantial, transient decrease of IOP after DOP occurs in glaucomatous eyes with a well-functioning bleb 3 months to 6 years after filtering surgery. The duration exceeds 90 minutes in more than 50% of the eyes tested and 180 minutes in more than 30% of the eyes tested.
Thoracic Trauma: When and How to Intervene

Trauma is the leading cause of death in patients younger than 40 years of age. Thoracic injuries are common and often can be managed by tube thoracostomy. In many patients, however, the thoracic injuries must be repaired surgically in one of three time periods: immediate, urgent, or delayed thoracotomy. In this article, we describe the general approach to effectively managing thoracic trauma patients. We review common injuries and scenarios that may be encountered by the surgeon and discuss the considerations and variables that enter into the decision-making process for operative intervention.
Terminal Cretaceous Events

SEVERAL explanations have been offered (see refs. 1–3) for the abrupt faunal extinctions at the end of the Cretaceous and, with the advent of the JOIDES Deep Sea Drilling Project, it was hoped that the nature of the extinctions—at least for calcareous microfossils—would be found by coring a transitional sequence across the boundary in deep sea facies. Unfortunately, the results from the few JOIDES holes so far penetrating the Cretaceous–Tertiary boundary indicate that the unconformity is even greater in the deep ocean basins than on the continents and that a transitional sequence will probably never be found, especially in calcareous pelagic sediments. Although disappointing on first inspection, these data nevertheless provide the most tangible and significant clue yet as to the nature of the terminal Cretaceous event.
Hydrodynamic morphology and behavior of a free-living sediment-dwelling bryozoan, Alcyonidium disciforme (Smitt)

Abstract The free-living bryozoan Alcyonidium disciforme (Smitt) is a pliable slightly convex disc with a central opening and lophophores on the upper surface. Field and flow-tank experiments on live and preserved specimens from the Bering and Chukchi Seas as well as model colonies indicate that this morphology 1. (1) maintains a correct convex-side up position on the sea floor 2. (2) resists dislodgement and transport by flow 3. (3) when lifted into the water column, falls to the substratum basal-side up 4. (4) when basal-side up on substratum, is easily reorientated at low flow (≤l0cm·s−1. Strong negative lift (> - 12 mN) was produced by flow over upright colonies, enabling them to resist suspension and maintain their orientation through a wide range of current velocities (≤ 60 cm · s−1). Experimental closure of the colonies' central opening reversed the direction of lift and resulted in colonies being swept away at much lower current velocities ( ≤ 30 cm · s −1 ). The self-righting ability of A. disciforme is the result of significantly higher drag and lift experienced by inverted vs. upright colonies at all flow speeds. Observations of live A. disciforme suggest the existence of a colony-wide escape response. When disturbed, split and coiled colonies tightened their coil and increased their height. Plastic models used to mimic this response showed “extended” colonies were transported at significantly lower flow velocities (mean = 46 cm · s−1) than colonies of normal aspect (mean = 57 cm · s−1). The shape of A. disciforme aided in directing experimental current flow between the overlapped ends and thus across the covered lophophore regions of split and coiled fragments. The high proportion of colony fragments found in the Bering Sea, many of which had grown into overlapping coils exceeding 360°, suggests that asexual reproduction is important. These findings show that the morphology and behavior of A. disciforme, unique among Bryozoans, enable it to live in high energy, wave swept, sedimentary environments, which are equally unusual for the phylum.
Differential diagnosis of low back pain

Low back pain is a symptom affecting millions of adults annually. The etiology of low back pain may be difficult to determine at times because of the number of diverse anatomic structures located in or near the low back region. These structures may be causing direct or referred pain patterns. An accurate diagnosis is essential for both acute and chronic low back pain conditions. The discussion in this article is extensive but not all-inclusive, and the clinician should consult other sources for more detailed description of the less common differential diagnoses.
Long-term naturalistic treatment of depressive symptoms in bipolar illness with divalproex vs. lithium in the setting of minimal antidepressant use.

Abstract Objective: Risks have been associated with the long-term use of antidepressant in the treatment of bipolar disorder. We review our naturalistic experience with divalproex versus lithium in treating depressive symptoms of bipolar illness. Method: All patients with bipolar disorder treated with lithium or divalproex were identified in a university outpatient psychiatry clinic sample over one year ( n =38 patients, 41 treatment trials). Treatment response was based on standard prospective symptom rating scales. Mean duration of follow-up was 90 weeks. Results: Lithium and divalproex were equally effective and tolerated in the total sample. Antidepressant effects were noted despite sparing use of standard antidepressant agents (19% received them). Lithium non-responders responded well to divalproex (50%), and vice versa (44%). Divalproex monotherapy (24%) was more common than lithium monotherapy (7%, P =0.07) and was notably effective in treating depressive symptoms, with a 7/10 response on the CGI-BP and improvement on the HDRS (14.8±9.2 to 7.6±7.8, P =0.003, duration of prospective follow up 26.7 weeks). Conclusions: Lithium and divalproex were equally effective and tolerated in this naturalistic sample, but responders may represent distinct subgroups. Both agents, but particularly divalproex, demonstrated long-term antidepressant effects, with limited adjunctive standard antidepressant use.
Coupled dynamic instability of thin-walled structural systems

Abstract The dynamics of thin-walled structural systems are presented for both the pre- and the post-buckling states. The influence of the coupling effect of axial compression and initial imperfection on the dynamical response of columns, plates and cylindrical shells is discussed. The theoretical procedure used to study the subject is presented, together with illustrative examples. The use of the results obtained for the prediction of buckling loads of cylindrical shells by means of nondestructive vibration tests is also presented. The implications of the results on the design of thin-walled systems is discussed. The work is done in the scope of the elastic stability, and damping is not included in the analysis.
Implementation of cancer prevention guidelines in clinical practice.

Data from several sources, including consumer surveys, physician surveys, and medical record audits, indicate that consumers do not receive cancer screening tests as recommended by the National Cancer Institute, the American Cancer Society, and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Performance rates are consistently below published standards for all tests except Pap tests. Major reasons physicians do not perform the recommended tests include physician forgetfulness, disagreement with recommendations, lack of time, and patient refusal. Physicians also tend to overestimate their own performance rates. Barriers to screening test performance can be categorized into patient factors, physician factors, test factors, and health care delivery system factors. Interventions, such as computerized reminder systems, physician audits with feedback, and patient education and reminders, can be effective in promoting performance of such screening. Interventions that target both physician and patient may be particularly effective.
The distribution, elimination, and in vivo biotransformation of aldicarb in the rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss).

Abstract The distribution and elimination of [14C]aldicarb, administered orally and by intraperitoneal (ip) injection, was examined in the rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Tissue residues were determined by monitoring radioactivity at various time periods up to 96 hr in trout administered [14C]aldicarb orally. Periodic water samples and a single tissue residue radioactivity level were obtained after 24 hr in free swimming and spinally transected fish which received [14C]aldicarb via intraperitoneal injection. Aldicarb appears to be absorbed rapidly (99% within 3 hr) and distributed to all tissues. Elimination profiles from both dosage groups demonstrate a rapid α phase (oral 24 hr; ip 3 hr) probably due to branchial excretion (96% after ip injection) followed by a slower β phase (oral 107 hr; ip 28 hr) suggesting a deeper compartment such as muscle. [14C]Aldicarb and/or its metabolites were slowly being transported to the bile after 24 hr. The in vivo biotransformation of [14C]aldicarb was examined in spinally transected trout 24 hr after ip injection. The major metabolite found was aldicarb sulfoxide (7.6%) along with lesser amounts of aldicarb oxime (5.4%).
Physical Disability After Severe Lower-Extremity Injury

Abstract Archer KR, Castillo RC, MacKenzie EJ, Bosse MJ, and the LEAP Study Group. Physical disability after severe lower-extremity injury. Objective To investigate the use of a combined measure of decreased walking speed and gait deviation to identify high physical disability in patients with lower-limb salvage. Design Longitudinal study of patients with severe lower-extremity trauma. Setting Eight level I trauma centers. Participants Patients (N=276) with lower-limb salvage from the Lower Extremity Assessment Project. Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures Disability from the physical dimension of the Sickness Impact Profile (SIP), walking speed, and gait deviation were measured at 24 months of follow-up. A 1-way analysis of variance and planned comparisons compared mean SIP scores across and between the following 3 outcome groups: no impaired speed and no gait deviation, impaired speed or gait deviation, and impaired speed and gait deviation. Results Mean SIP scores for the physical dimension and its 2 categories of ambulation and body care and movement differed statistically across the planned comparisons. The mobility category showed that the impaired speed or deviation group was statistically similar to the group without impaired speed and gait deviation. Conclusions The combination of decreased walking speed and gait deviation appears to provide a valid measure of physical disability among patients with lower-limb salvage.
A microwave-assisted and environmentally benign approach to the synthesis of near-infrared fluorescent pentamethine cyanine dyes

Abstract A time-efficient and eco-conscious microwave methodology was developed and applied to synthesize a systematic library of pentamethine cyanine dyes and their corresponding precursors. The synthesis outlined herein drastically reduced the reaction pathway for pentamethine carbocyanine dye syntheses from days to min, as well as producing increased yields (89–98%) to the conventional heating method (18–64%). Twelve examples of pentamethine cyanine dyes were synthesized by means of microwave-assisted organic synthesis which provided excellent yield in expedited reaction time and were obtained using facile isolation methods. Furthermore, three cyanines were prepared with a novel methylene dioxy heterocyclic structure which imparted an approximately 40 nm bathochromic shift compared to unsubstituted counterparts; these results were shown to be in agreement with DFT calculations and HOMO-LUMO energy differences.
New Horizons Pluto lessons learned during ground processing

The New Horizons (NH) Pluto probe was launched on an Atlas V-551 equipped with a five-meter payload fairing (PLF). In-situ Gel-Pak witness plates were used to monitor fall-out at spacecraft level and at Centaur level within the PLF. Based upon the composition of particles captured on a Gel-Pak that witnessed encapsulation and transport to the launch facility significant particle fall-out is associated with fairing materials of construction. The weekly variation of particle fall-out onto subsequent Gel-Pak surfaces over the course of launch preparation indicates that upward transport of particles occurred. Based upon the sum of all Gel-Pak particle counts combined with visual detection of dust on the top deck of New Horizons during installation of the radioisotope thermoelectric generator (RTG) our goal of level 450 beginning of life (BOL) was probably exceeded. A big contributor to this excedance was removal of the isolation diaphragm that normally separates the spacecraft form activity below due to mission unique requirements. The launch service provider confirmed detection of upward air movement in previous ground testing of an Atlas V fairing. Future contamination sensitive missions using the Atlas V may want to consider the following: 1) reduced PLF airflow (NH used 280 Lbm/min.), 2) ultraviolet inspection of the PLF, 3) use of isolation diaphragm, 4) in-situ particle counting. Sodium chloride was evident on many particles examined by SEM/EDS, indicating intrusion of the sea coast atmosphere into KSC cleanrooms.
Effects of AMP-activated protein kinase in cerebral ischemia

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a serine threonine kinase that is highly conserved through evolution. AMPK is found in most mammalian tissues including the brain. As a key metabolic and stress sensor/effector, AMPK is activated under conditions of nutrient deprivation, vigorous exercise, or heat shock. However, it is becoming increasingly recognized that changes in AMPK activation not only signal unmet metabolic needs, but also are involved in sensing and responding to 'cell stress', including ischemia. The downstream effect of AMPK activation is dependent on many factors, including the severity of the stressor as well as the tissue examined. This review discusses recent in vitro and in vivo studies performed in the brain/neuronal cells and vasculature that have contributed to our understanding of AMPK in stroke. Recent data on the potential role of AMPK in angiogenesis and neurogenesis and the interaction of AMPK with 3-hydroxy-3-methy-glutaryl-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) agents are highlighted. The interaction between AMPK and nitric oxide signaling is also discussed.
7147 Esophagitis dissecans superficialis: a case series.

Background: Esophagitis dissecans superficialis (EDS) is a rare benign esophageal condition characterized by dysphagia and sloughing of the squamous mucosal lining with little inflammation. Many consider EDS to be a unique clinicopathologic entity with a distinctive endoscopic appearance. Aim: To determine the underlying clinical characteristics of a group of patients with typical endoscopic appearance of EDS. Method: We retrospectively reviewed a series of 10 consecutive patients who were diagnosed with EDS from 1996 to 1999. Result: There were 6 women and 4 men with a mean age of 56 (range 33-87). All had upper endoscopy documenting desquamation of sheets of superficial squamous mucosa from most of the relatively intact underlying esophageal wall. Corresponding histology demonstrated desquamated squamous epithelia with mild or no inflammation. Seven of the 10 patients (70%) were symptomatic, and had the following frequencies of symptoms: dysphagia 3/7 (43%), dyspepsia 3/7 (43%), non-cardiac chest pain 2/7 (29%), and odynophagia 1/7 (14%). All symtoms resolved within 1-2 weeks. The remaining 3 patients were asymptomatic (30%); and EDS was an incidental finding in the course of: post esophageal variceal band ligation follow-up, iron-deficiency anemia work-up, and routine gastrostomy tube placement. EDS can be caused by various insults. Five patients had the following respective associated conditions: acute graft-versus-host disease, achalasia, post esophageal variceal band ligation, prurigo nodularis, and mediastinal radiation for lung cancer. To our knowledge, this is the first report of EDS related to these specific conditions. EDS was related to retching and vomiting in 2 other patients, while 3 patients had no obvious predisposing condition. Conclusion: EDS is a condition with a distinct endoscopic appearance that affects a variety of patients. It represents a common reaction of the esophageal squamous mucosa to various physical, chemical, thermal, and immunologic insults. Although its most typical presentation is dysphagia and dyspepsia, it is frequently asymptomatic, and is more common than generally appreciated.
Undergraduate health psychology: Another challenge for an ambitious field

Abstract Approaches to teaching undergraduate health psychology are explored drawing on information gathered from a national survey and from an APA symposium. Data from the survey are summarized, followed by brief descriptions of actual courses reflecting a range of approaches. Finally, a hypothetical course which blends the dominant features of existing courses is presented as a mainstream prescription for current development of undergraduate health psychology courses.
Influence of maintained ocular deviation on the spatial displacement component of the oculogyral illusion.

We evaluated the effect of maintained gaze deviation on the displacement component of the oculogyral illusion (OGI). Whiteside, Graybiel, and Niven (1965) proposed that the perception of an OGI was dependent upon the central monitoring of a fixation command needed to suppress vestibular nystagmus and maintain a retinally stable target. By employing a procedure developed by Alexander (1922), we varied the fixation signal strength needed to maintain stable target fixation during rotation, and found systematic and predictable differences in the magnitude of the displacement component of the OGI. These results suggest that the visual fixation signal needed to override a covert vestibular nystagmus is used in computing the visual direction of a target, and provide support for the theoretical analysis of the OGI proposed by Whiteside, Graybiel, and Niven.
Aberrations involving 13q12∼q14 are frequent secondary events in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Abstract Chromosome 13 aberrations, particularly in the region 13q12∼q14, are common events in hematological neoplasms that have a clinical significance in many cases. However, although chromosome 13 aberrations are a nonrandom event in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), their biological and clinical associations are limited. We have studied a consecutive series of 277 cases of childhood ALL, including 33 initially at relapse, by conventional cytogenetic analysis. In 20 cases, a chromosome 13 aberration that involved the region 13q12∼q14 was detected at some point during the disease. An aberration was identified in 15 of 244 (6.1%) presentation cases and 7 of 54 (13%) relapsed cases, of which in 11 cases it was shown that the abnormality arose as a secondary karyotypic event. To further characterize the cases, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) using the commercially available probes LSI 13 (RB1) and D13S25 (both 13q14) was undertaken. These analyses provided additional evidence for the secondary nature of many events and suggested that 13q14 deletions may confer a growth advantage in culture because the percentage of cells containing 13q14 deletions detected by FISH was often lower than that detected by G-banding. Since 13q12∼q14 aberrations in childhood ALL frequently occur as secondary events, these results imply that the abnormality has implications for disease progression.
Complete pterygoidectomy--a novel method for the topographical investigation of the deep masticator space and its contents.

The complexity of the topographical anatomy of the infratemporal fossa (=masticator space) remains underappreciated because of limitations of the methods used to expose it; these methods are described and critiqued. The disposition of the lateral pterygoid (LPt) muscle in the masticator space obscures the anatomical relations of clinically significant neurovascular structures. Controversies regarding the nerve supply and actions of the two LPt heads are summarized. Since the LPt has been implicated in temporomandibular (joint) dysfunction (TMD), its precise relationships to the mandibular neurovascular structures is essential in understanding its role in TMD. We recently developed a method involving the en bloc removal of the LPt-tensor veli palatini complex along with all vital neurovascular structures. Further investigations using our method--in conjunction with contemporary imaging techniques (CT, MRI)--should help describe the detailed topography of masticatory structures. This information should help in understanding, differential diagnosis, and treatment of TMD.
The Urban Challenge

The Urban Challenge was a robotic vehicle race through a simulated urban environment. Full size autonomous vehicles were required to complete a 60 mile course, while independently reasoning about other autonomous and human driven vehicles. The vehicles were required to safely handle intersections, multi-lane roads, parking lots and unusual situations. Teams from around the world attempted the competition with eleven qualifying for the final challenge. In this talk I describe the Urban Challenge and Boss, the vehicle that won the challenge. Boss is a modified Chevy Tahoe that fuses data from many sensors to interpret the world around it and drive safely. I will highlight how Boss incorporates radar and lidar data to track moving vehicles and how this information is used. I will also speculate on the future of autonomous vehicles and the critical open challenges.
Probing the magnetization reversal in epitaxial Fe/IrMn exchange biased bilayers using angle-dependent anisotropic magnetoresistance

We investigated the detailed magnetotransport properties of epitaxial Fe/IrMn exchange biased bilayers by angle-dependent anisotropic magnetoresistance measurements over a wide temperature range. Irreversible resistance jumps and smooth transitions are observed when measuring along different angles with respect to the bias at certain temperatures. The angular dependence of the switching fields shows good agreement with a domain wall (DW) nucleation model. The exchange bias, the induced uniaxial anisotropy, and the intrinsic 90° DW nucleation energy are further extracted from the angle-dependent measurements. A linear temperature dependence is observed for both the exchange bias and the induced uniaxial anisotropy, while the intrinsic 90° DW nucleation energy is independent of the temperature.
Their pain gives us pleasure: How intergroup dynamics shape empathic failures and counter-empathic responses

Despite its early origins and adaptive functions, empathy is not inevitable; people routinely fail to empathize with others, especially members of different social or cultural groups. In five experiments, we systematically explore how social identity, functional relations between groups, competitive threat, and perceived entitativity contribute to intergroup empathy bias: the tendency not only to empathize less with out-group relative to in-group members, but also feel pleasure in response to their pain (and pain in response to their pleasure). When teams are set in direct competition, affective responses to competition-irrelevant events are characterized not only by less empathy toward out-group relative to in-group members, but also by increased counter-empathic responses: Schadenfreude and Gluckschmerz (Experiment 1). Comparing responses to in-group and out-group targets against responses to unaffiliated targets in this competitive context suggests that intergroup empathy bias may be better characterized by out-group antipathy rather than extraordinary in-group empathy (Experiment 2). We find also that intergroup empathy bias is robust to changes in relative group standing-feedback indicating that the out-group has fallen behind (Experiment 3a) or is no longer a competitive threat (Experiment 3b) does not reduce the bias. However, reducing perceived in-group and out-group entitativity can significantly attenuate intergroup empathy bias (Experiment 4). This research establishes the boundary conditions of intergroup empathy bias and provides initial support for a more integrative framework of group-based empathy.
Play aggression among zapotec children: Implications for the practice hypothesis

This study evaluates a prominent functional explanation for play aggression, the practice hypothesis, employing data from a non-Western culture, the Zapotec of Oaxaca, Mexico. The practice hypothesis proposes that play aggression, sometimes called rough-and-tumble play, has evolved primarily as a “safe” way for young individuals to practice and perfect adult fighting and/or hunting skills. Ethological observations of 3–8-year-old Zapotec children (n = 48) form the basis for investigating serious and play aggression, and for evaluating predictions stemming from the practice hypothesis. Play aggression in Zapotec children is superficially similar to real aggression, but can be differentiated from aggression in a number of ways, such as by facial expression, nature of outcomes, and amount of behavioral variability. Rates of play aggression were not significantly different between Zapotec boys and girls; however, mixed-sex dyads during play aggression occurred less often than same-sex dyads. Play partners were closer in age than chance would predict, with initiators tending to be slightly older than recipients, except when boys initiated play aggression toward girls. Injuries during play aggression occurred very infrequently (in about 1% of the episodes), and children were more likely to stay together following play than following serious aggression. The Zapotec data are discussed in relation to predictions regarding play partner choice, sex differences, the overall nature (design) of play aggression (in relation to Zapotec adult aggression), as well as in relation to phylogenetic and cross-cultural considerations. It is concluded that most of the findings are consistent with the practice hypothesis. It is also suggested that because play and serious aggression can be distinguished and apparently stem from different underlying motivations, these behavioral patterns not be confounded as is sometimes done in observational studies of children's aggression.
The Viability of the Lost Letter Technique

Summary The lost letter technique was used to investigate consumer attitudes on two potential pharmaceutical services: taking of blood pressures and performing physical examinations in pharmacies. The methodology consisted of “losing” approximately 500 letters around three pharmacies with addresses that indicated favorable or unfavorable attitudes toward these services. The reliability of the lost letter was gauged through the use of simultaneously administered 300 in-store questionnaires investigating the same issues. Questionnaire respondents were opposed to both services, but only significantly so in the case of physical examinations. However, the lost letter technique results on both issues were nonsignificant; i. e., respondents were neither for nor against such services. In view of the questionnaire results, it may not be possible to replicate the findings of the lost letter technique. A possible problem with this methodology is that it may be insensitive to noncontroversial issues. When this techni...
A Further Comment on the N‐Stage Discount Model and Required Return

This comment demonstrates that the difference between the market discount rate and the rate year required rate of return by Bower is the result of a misspecification of growth rates.
Does the headless roach learn to avoid

The headless roach has been identified as a relatively simple model system for the physiological analysis of instrumental learning. The basic observation is that an experimental roach that receives shock contingent upon a leg extension raises its leg more often and keeps it raised for a longer time than its yoked control roach. This evidence is inadequate to demonstrate learning, since these results are also consistent with a purely reactive model. The asymptotic results based on one such reactive model were similar to previously reported data.
A New Hope for Precision Medicine

The SS1P immunotoxin is combined with immunomodulatory therapy in order to improve its efficacy in human mesothelioma (Hassan et al., this issue).
Water management of the DMFC passively fed with a high-concentration methanol solution

Abstract The methanol barrier layer adopted for high-concentration direct methanol fuel cells (HC-DMFCs) increases water transport resistance, and makes water management in HC-DMFCs more challenging and critical than that in the conventional direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) without a methanol barrier layer. In the semi-passive HC-DMFC used in this work, oxygen was actively supplied to the cathode side while various concentrated methanol solutions, 4 M, 8 M, 16 M, and neat methanol, were passively supplied from the anode fuel reservoir. The effects of the cathode relative humidity, cathode pressure, and oxygen flow rate on the water crossover coefficient, fuel efficiency, and overall performance of the fuel cell were studied. Results showed that electrolyte membrane resistance, which was determined by its water content, was the predominant factor that determined the performance of a HC-DMFC, especially at a high current density. A negative water crossover coefficient, which indicated that water flowed back from the cathode through the electrolyte membrane to the anode, was measured when the methanol concentration was 8 M or higher. The back flow of water from the cathode is a very important water supply source to hydrate the electrolyte membrane. The water crossover coefficient was decreased by increasing the cathode relative humidity and back pressure. Water flooding at the cathode was not severe in the HC-DMFC, and a low oxygen flow rate was preferred to decrease water loss and yield a better performance. The peak power density generated from the HC-DMFC fed with 16 M methanol solution was 75.9 mW cm −2 at 70 °C.
Acute systemic and coronary hemodynamic effects of chlorothiazide in subjects with systemic arterial hypertension

Abstract 1. 1. The acute systemic and coronary hemodynamic effects of intravenous administration of chlorothiazide are reported in 9 hypertensive subjects. 2. 2. There was a significant decrease in the central venous pressure and pulmonary artery pressure accompanied by decreased cardiac output and reduced right and left ventricular work. 3. 3. Coronary blood flow decreased slightly, but not significantly, and the coronary sinus blood oxygen content was maintained.
Family history of psychiatric disorders in social phobia.

Abstract Relatives of panic patients (N = 471), normals (N = 46), and social phobics (N = 76) were compared on family histories of emotional disorders. Social phobics had significantly more relatives with social phobia than panic disorder relatives (6.6% v 0.4% P