cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A red fluorescent protein (DsRED) from Discosoma sp. as a reporter for gene expression in walnut somatic embryos

An improved scorable marker was developed for somatic embryo transformation. This method is more reliable than GFP and provides more efficient embryo selection than β-glucuronidase assays (GUS, MUG). Reporter genes are widely used to select transformed cells and tissues. Fluorescent proteins have become an integral part of live-cell imaging research over the past 10 years. DsRED is an ideal reporter for avoiding plant chlorophyll autofluorescence and for double labeling in combination with other scorable markers. In this study, we transformed walnut somatic embryos with a construct containing the DsRED-expressing binary vector pKGW-RR to assess the effect of this red fluorescent protein visual reporter on both embryos and regenerated plants. Results showed that DsRED expression was apparent with maximum brightness at 7–10 days after initiation. Fourteen of twenty-four surviving somatic embryos were bright red. These E0 embryos generated 25 wholly fluorescent E1 embryos and 43 wholly fluorescent E2 embryos at 2 weeks intervals. The germination percentage of DsRED-positive embryos was greater than 80 % and gave rise to 45 fluorescent transgenic walnut plants. The regenerated transgenic plants expressed DsRED in all tissues examined including transverse sections of vegetative organs. The percentage of transformed plants that developed roots (48.3 %) was similar to control shoots (53 %). For transformation of walnut somatic embryos, the DsRED-based reporter system is more stable and reliable than green fluorescent protein (GFP) and, since it is a directly read and non-destructive assay, it provides a more efficient means of monitoring transformation than β-glucuronidase (GUS).
The synthetic protease substrate N-benzoyl-L-argininyl-P-nitroanilide activates specific binding of [3H]estradiol to a protein in rat pancreas: relationship of structure to activity

N-benzoyl-L-argininyl-p-nitroanilide (BAN), A sythetic substrate for trypsin-like proteolytic enzymes, is a potent activator of [3H]estradiol-binding to a protein present in rat pancreas. When partially purified, this protein is almost devoid of [3H]estradiol-binding activity in the absence of an endogenous accessory factor. BAN can mimic the natural coligand in this steroid binding reaction. The effect of BAN is specific since a number of derivatives of this substance are inactive or may even inhibit steroid binding. It is unlikely that BAN exerts this stimulatory action indirectly, possibly by preventing proteolytic inactivation of the [3H]estradiol-binding protein, since preincubation of the protein in the absence of BAN resulted neither in reduced rate, nor extent, of steroid binding following BAN addition. Also, a number of protease inhibitors had no effect on the binding reaction. Of those inhibitors tested, only antipain significantly enhanced binding of [3H]estradiol, but only about 20 percent as effectively as BAN.
African American Students, Retention, and Team-Based Learning A Review of the Literature and Recommendations for Retention at Predominately White Institutions

This article reviews the literature on retention of African American students at predominately White institutions (PWIs). A focus on current trends in Kentucky colleges and universities outlines re...
CRETINISM IN LAMBS: AN EXPERIMENTAL INTRAUTERINE MODEL

Intrauterine deprivation of thyroxine in lambs causes developmental changes analagous to human congenital cretinism. Intrauterine fetal thyroidectomies were performed at 56-80 days gestation. Thyroidectomized neonatal lambs showed gross evidence of cretinism with immature wool coats, wobbly gaits, inability to suck, weak bleats and radiologic evidence of markedly delayed bone ages. In three twin pairs with one fetus thyroidectomized, the differences between normal and cretin lambs were striking. Amniotic fluid thyroxine by column (T4/Col) was measured at thyroidectomy and at delivery by Cesarean section. T4/Col was measured throughout pregnancy in ewes, shortly after birth in lambs and thereafter. Average T4/Col in pregnant ewes was 2.8μg% (1.4-6.0). Average amniotic fluid at surgery (19 animals) was 1.7μg% (.5-3.6). In twin pairs with one fetus thyroidectomized, normal fetus T4/Col average was 4.8μg% (3.5-5.6) while cretin values were 0.7-1.6μg%. In these twin pairs at Cesarean section average amniotic fluid T4/Col was 0.96μg% for both normal control and cretin animals. Conclusions: (1) Intrauterine fetal lamb thyroidectomy with subsequent thyroxine deprivation in utero produced morphologic, behavioral and chemical changes analagous to human athyrotic cretinism. (2) Amniotic fluid T4/Col did not reflect fetal thyroid status, thus precluding the monitoring of amniotic fluid T4/Col levels prenatally as an effective early detection method for cretins.
A new syndrome of axial muscle rigidity associated with etretinate therapy

We report on three cases of a novel syndrome associated with treatment for psoriasis with the retinoid etretinate. The distinctive features of this syndrome include rigidity that is restricted to the axial muscles, impairment of neck extension greater than flexion, impairment of anteflexion at the waist, severe impairment of lateral flexion at both the waist and the neck, and, in one case, rigidity of proximal lower extremity muscles. Peripheral nerve block extinguished the lower extremity rigidity in one patient, and two patients had a favorable response to Sinemet. One patient had persistence of symptoms and findings 2 years after discontinuation of etretinate. The clinical features of this syndrome are consistent with an effect of etretinate on central, possible catecholaminergic neurons.
Limitations to photosynthetic function across season in Larrea tridentata (creosotebush) growing on contrasting soil surfaces in the Sonoran Desert

Abstract Plant community structure in the southwestern United States co-varies with soil surface characteristics due to their role in controlling water availability. At the University of Arizona Desert Laboratory on Tumamoc Hill, we evaluated winter and summer season dynamics of photosynthesis in a dominant shrub species, Larrea tridentata (creosotebush), across soils with contrasting development of surface and sub-surface horizons. We measured pre-dawn water potential ( Ψ pd ), stomatal conductance ( g s ), leaf nitrogen content (%N), and determined stable carbon isotope discrimination ( Δ ). There were no differences in these parameters throughout the winter, although Δ was higher and %N was lower on the clay than sandy soil early in the dry summer period, and g s was higher on the clay than sandy soil late in the summer season while precipitation decreased. We used path analysis to determine the relative influences of %N, g s and Ψ pd on photosynthetic function ( Δ ) during the winter and summer seasons. There was no influence during the summer, although g s and %N had positive and negative impacts on Δ within the sandy soil type respectively during the winter. Across soil type, g s was the main driver of %N and Δ. Our study highlights the need to include soil type for understanding how physiological performance of L. tridentata varies over seasons within arid and semi-arid ecosystems.
Saturated-interference spectroscopy

The background in saturation spectroscopy is decreased by balancing the probe beam, in amplitude and phase, against a second probe, using a configuration like a Jamin interferometer. This improves the signal-to-noise ratio. If the phase is adjustable to provide best balance while the laser is tuned, the signal is proportional to the square of the absorption, and the line width is accordingly reduced.
FastBeam: Practical fast beamforming for indoor environments

In this work, we explore algorithms to perform fast beamforming when relying only on RSSI measurements in indoor environments. Fast beamforming allows for a faster adaptation of the antenna weights for environments where the channel is time varying. Time varying channel can be caused by client mobility, orientation changes at the client, and environmental changes. We show that existing techniques for RSSI based beamforming have a high time complexity, and hence severely under-perform when the channel is time varying. We then propose FastBeam, a suite of strategies that in tandem enable fast and practical beamforming using only RSSI measurements. FastBeam consists of both optimality preserving techniques and heuristic approaches that are selectively applied depending on the rate of change of the channel. We implement FastBeam on a Phocus Array System with eight antennas and use experimental evaluations to study its performance.
Finite-time blow-up for nonlinear wave equations in high dimensions

On considere le probleme de Cauchy pour l'equation d'onde non lineaire u tt -Δu=G(u r ,u t ), (XeR n , t>0) avec des dimensions d'espace superieures a un et avec des donnees initiales de support compact
cis elements of the villin gene control expression in restricted domains of the vertical (crypt) and horizontal (duodenum, cecum) axes of the intestine

Villin, an actin bundling protein found in the apical brush border of absorptive tissues, is one of the first structural genes to be transcriptionally activated in the embryonic intestinal endoderm. In the adult, villin is broadly expressed in every cell of the intestinal epithelium on both the vertical axis (crypt to villus tip) and the horizontal axis (duodenum through colon) of the intestine. Here, we document that a 12.4-kilobase region of the mouse villin gene drives high level expression of two different reporter genes (LacZ and Cre recombinase) within the entire intestinal epithelium of transgenic mice. Deletion of a portion of this transgene results in reduction of β-galactosidase activity in restricted domains of the small intestine (duodenum) and large intestine (cecum). In addition, expression is reduced in the crypt compartment throughout the intestine. Thus, the global expression pattern of villin in the intestine is apparently the consequence of an amalgam of distinct and individual domain-specific control processes. That is, expression of villin in the duodenum and cecum requires different regulatory sequences than the rest of the intestine, and the expression of villin in crypts is regulated by different circuitry than expression of villin on villus tips.
In vitro comparison of standard ultrasound and pneumatic lithotrites with a new combination intracorporeal lithotripsy device.

Objectives. A new combination intracorporeal lithotripter (Lithoclast Ultra) has been developed that incorporates the beneficial effects of pneumatic lithotripsy (rapid stone fragmentation) and ultrasound lithotripsy (rapid fragment removal). An in vitro study was performed to assess the efficiency of stone fragmentation and clearance of this new combination intracorporeal lithotripter compared with currently available ultrasound and pneumatic units. Methods. Pneumatic and ultrasound lithotrites, along with the combination pneumatic/ultrasound unit, were used through a rigid 27F nephroscope to fragment and remove phantom stones made of BegoForm. The mean fragment removal times and stone fragment sizes for the standard ultrasound and pneumatic devices were compared with the combination unit to determine the completeness and efficiency of stone fragmentation and removal. Results. The average time for stone clearance using the pneumatic and ultrasound devices was 23.8 and 12.9 minutes, respectively. The combination pneumatic/ultrasound unit was significantly more efficient, requiring only 7.4 minutes to completely fragment and clear all stone material (P <0.002). In addition, the average size of the 15 largest fragments removed was significantly less with the combination device than with the pneumatic and ultrasound lithotrites (1.67 mm versus 9.07 mm and 3.67 mm, respectively, P <0.00001). Conclusions. The combination of pneumatic and ultrasound capabilities in a newly developed lithotrite exhibited a significantly enhanced ability to fragment and clear phantom stones compared with standard ultrasound or pneumatic devices alone. These preliminary studies suggest that this combination pneumatic/ultrasound lithotripter may be an ideal device for the expeditious removal of large-volume renal or bladder calculi. Additional studies are warranted to better assess the capabilities of this new device in treating human stones of various compositions and its safety, as well as the optimal power and frequency settings.
γ-Terpinene synthetase: A key enzyme in the biosynthesis of aromatic monoterpenes

Abstract Previous studies with thyme ( Thymus vulgaris L.) leaf slices indicated that γ-terpinene (1,4- p -menthadiene) is the precursor of the aromatic monoterpenes p -cymene (4-isopropyl toluene) and thymol (5-methyl-2-isopropyl phenol) (Poulose, A. and Croteau, R. (1978) Arch. Biochem. Biophys. 187, 307–314). A 105,000 g supernatant obtained from an extract of young thyme leaves catalyzed the cyclization of both [1- 3 H]neryl pyrophosphate and [1- 3 H]geranyl pyrophosphate to γ-[3- 3 H]terpinene. No evidence for the interconversion of the acyclic precursors was obtained, and isotopic dilution experiments suggested that γ-terpinene was synthesized directly from these acyclic precursors without the involvement of any free intermediates. Competing phosphatase activity in the soluble preparation was removed by ammonium sulfate fractionation followed by gel filtration on Sephadex G-150. In these fractionation steps, γ-terpinene synthetase activity co-purified with small amounts of α-thujene (1-isopropyl-4-methylbicyclo[3.1.0]-hex-3-ene) and α-terpineol ( p -menth-1-en-8-ol) synthetase activities, and these three activities could not be resolved by subsequent hydroxylapatite chromatography, anion exchange chromatography on QAE-Sephadex, or affinity chromatography on neroic acid-substituted agarose. All the enzymatic products were identified by radio chromatography and by the synthesis of derivatives followed by radio chromatography or crystallization to constant specific activity. γ-Terpinene synthetase has an apparent molecular weight of 96,000, shows a pH optimum at about 6.8, and requires Mg 2+ for catalytic activity. Mn 2+ can partially substitute for Mg 2+ , but other divalent cations are ineffective. Estimated values of V and K m are 3.5 nmol/h/mg and 9 μ m , respectively, for neryl pyrophosphate, and 3.0 nmol/h/mg and 14 μ m , respectively, for geranyl pyrophosphate. Enzymic activity is inhibited by sulfhydryl-directed reagents and inorganic pyrophosphate, but not by γ-terpinene, p -cymene, or thymol. Based on the specific location of tritium in the product, a mechanism is proposed which involves the cyclization of the acyclic precursor, loss of a proton from C5 to form the Δ 4 double bond, and a 1,2-hydride shift from C4 to C8 to give γ-terpinene. A similar mechanism, but with loss of the proton from C6 and the formation of a cyclopropane ring, would yield α-thujene.
Analyzing power measurements for p-d radiative capture.

Analyzing power measurements are presented for radiative capture of polarized protons on deuterium and for polarized deuterons on hydrogen at {ital E}{sub c.m.}=3.33 MeV. The reaction is dominated by {ital E}1 capture from channel-spin {ital S}{sub {ital c}}=1/2 states; however, the measurements show clear evidence of {ital M}1, {ital E}2, and spin-flip ({ital S}{sub {ital c}}=3/2) {ital E}1 contributions at the 1/2% level. The new data can impose fairly strong constraints on individual matrix elements.
Self-assembled, cation-selective ion channels from an oligo(ethylene glycol) derivative of benzothiazole aniline.

This paper describes the spontaneous formation of well-defined pores in planar lipid bilayers from the self-assembly of a small synthetic molecule that contains a benzothiazole aniline (BTA) group attached to a tetra-ethylene glycol (EG4) moiety. Macroscopic and single-channel current recordings suggest that these pores are formed by the assembly of four BTA-EG4 monomers with an open pore diameter that appears similar to the one of gramicidin pores (~ 0.4 nm). The single-channel conductance of these pores is modulated by the pH of the electrolyte and has a minimum at pH ~ 3. Self-assembled pores from BTA-EG4 are selective for monovalent cations and have long open channel lifetimes on the order of seconds. BTA-EG4 monomers in these pores appear to be arranged symmetrically across both leaflets of the bilayer, and spectroscopy studies suggest that the fluorescent BTA group is localized inside the lipid bilayers. In terms of biological activity, BTA-EG4 molecules inhibited growth of gram-positive Bacillus subtilis bacteria (IC50 ~ 50 μM) and human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells (IC50 ~ 60 μM), while they were not toxic to gram-negative Escherichia coli bacteria at a concentration up to 500 μM. Based on these properties, this drug-like, synthetic, pore-forming molecule with a molecular weight below 500 g mol− 1 might be appealing as a starting material for development of antibiotics or membrane-permeating moieties for drug delivery. From a biophysical point of view, long-lived, well-defined ion-selective pores from BTA-EG4 molecules offer an example of a self-assembled synthetic supramolecule with biological function.
Modified hippocampal long-term potentiation in PKCγ-mutant mice

Abstract Calcium-phospholipid-dependent protein kinase (PKC) has long been suggested to play an important role in modulating synaptic efficacy. We have created a strain of mice that lacks the γ subtype of PKC to evaluate the significance of this brain-specific PKC isozyme in synaptic plasticity. Mutant mice are viable, develop normally, and have synaptic transmission that is indistinguishable from wild-type mice. Long-term potentiation (LTP), however, is greatly diminished in mutant animals, while two other forms of synaptic plasticity, long-term depression and paired-pulse facilitation, are normal. Surprisingly, when tetanus to evoke LTP was preceded by a low frequency stimulation, mutant animals displayed apparently normal LTP. We propose that PKCγ is not part of the molecular machinery that produces LTP but is a key regulatory component.
Bombesin stimulates inositol polyphosphate production in GH4C1 pituitary tumor cells: comparison with TRH.

Abstract The hormones bombesin and thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) stimulated formation of inositol-monophosphate, bisphosphate, trisphosphate and tetrakisphosphate with parallel time courses in GH 4 C 1 cells, while a more polar inositol polyphosphate peak, consisting of inositol-pentakisphsophate and perhaps also inositol-hexakisphosphate, was unaffected by either hormone. Although bombesin and TRH had similar potencies in stimulating inositol trisphosphate production (K m = 30 nM and 40 nM, respectively), TRH was significantly more efficacious than bombesin. Maximal stimulation of inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate formation by TRH was not further increased by addition of a maximally effective dose of bombesin, suggesting that the two hormones act through stimulation of a common pool of phospholipase C, and this enzyme pool can be fully stimulated by TRH, alone.
Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Treatment and Cardiovascular Implications

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic neurobehavioral disorder afflicting adults worldwide. This article is an update on the evidence supporting medications for adult ADHD, with particular emphasis on cardiovascular implications. Relevant clinical literature was sought using PubMed searches, with an emphasis on new reports from April 2009 to April 2011. This review describes the efficacy and general tolerability of stimulant and nonstimulant medications for adults with ADHD as seen in contemporary clinical trials. Cardiovascular response to medications for ADHD is primarily seen in heart rate and blood pressure elevations, while less is known about the etiology of rare cardiovascular events or long-term sequelae. Further research is indicated to delineate clinical and functional outcomes for adults with ADHD, as well as long-term safety of medication treatment.
Determinants of the ARM share of national and regional lending

We model the ARM share of mortgage lending and provide several unique contributions to the mortgage choice literature. First, we motivate the use of the price spread between fixed- and adjustable-rate credit as a regressor by constraining the effect of FRM and ARM prices to be symmetric and show that the data support this restriction. Second, our data span a far longer time period (six years) than previous research. Third, we estimate separate share equations by region, allowing us to contrast geographic variation in ARM shares. Fourth, we examine the effect of convertible ARMs—which became prevalent in mid-1987—on overall ARM lending.
A system dynamics analysis of food supply chains – Case study with non-perishable products

Abstract The purpose of this study is to examine the non-perishable product food supply chain performance under a monopolistic environment. A system dynamics approach was used to study the behavior and relationships within a supply chain for a non-perishable product, and to determine the impact of demand variability and lead-time on supply chain performance. The proposed model facilitates identification and study of the critical components of the overall supply chain, allowing for the creation of an efficient and sustainable supply chain network. The modeling also provides a tool to generate multiple business situations for effective strategic planning and business decision-making.
New physics opportunities at high baryon densities

Abstract Beam energy scan programs are carried out at RHIC and SPS with the goals of finding signatures for the disappearance of the QGP, a QCD phase transition, and for a critical point. In this paper an overview of various observables studied by STAR, PHENIX, and NA60 to identify those structures in the QCD phase diagram are discussed. Furthermore, an outlook on the Beam Energy Scan phase II program at RHIC, which is anticipated for the years 2018–2019, is given.
Image-guided placement of occipitocervical instrumentation using a reference arc attached to the headholder.

OBJECTIVE: To develop a safe and accurate method of image-guided placement of instrumentation in the upper cervical spine and occiput in which the reference arc is fixed to the headholder. METHODS: The authors describe a technique for placing screws at the occipital, C1, and C2 levels using 3-dimensional image guidance in which the reference arc is fixed to the headholder. Technical details are discussed as well as modifications to the technique to maximize navigation accuracy and decrease the need for re-registration. One of 2 paired systems, the BrainLAB Vector Vision system (BrainLAB Inc., Westchester, IL) used in conjunction with the Arcadis Orbic Isocentric C-arm (Siemens Medical Solutions, Erlangen, Germany) or the Stealth Treon system (Medtronic, Littleton, MA) paired with the O-arm (Medtronic), was used for image guidance in this study. A total of 18 patients had 82 screws placed at the occipital, C1, or C2 level using this technique. An independent radiologist interpreted postoperative computed tomographic scans of these patients and graded the screws for bony breach. RESULTS: No complications resulted from the use of image guidance or from the placement of instrumentation. Postoperative computed tomography revealed 1 screw with a minimal breach of the outer lamina of C2. Another screw was replaced intraoperatively secondary to a minimal bony breach. No other bony breach occurred. CONCLUSIONS: This technique allows safe and accurate placement of instrumentation in the posterior occipitocervical junction using 3-dimensional image guidance in which the reference arc is attached to the headholder.
Husbands' reproductive health knowledge, attitudes, and behavior in Uttar Pradesh, India.

This study describes husbands knowledge of reproductive health issues extramarital sexual activity sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and health-seeking behavior as well as attitudes about their wives role in the household. Data were obtained from a 1995-96 survey of 6727 husbands from 5 major districts in Uttar Pradesh state India: Nainital Aligarh Kanpur Nagar Gonda and Banda. About 25% of the sample lived in urban areas. Only 25% of urban men and 20% of rural men knew the most fertile time of the menstrual period. Younger husbands knew less than older ones. Men with more assets were twice as knowledgeable. Most husbands knew little about danger signs during pregnancy. More urban husbands knew about warning signs of danger. The youngest husbands were the least informed about danger signs. Ownership of assets was associated with limited knowledge about danger signs. Knowledge about STDs was associated with higher levels of education urban residence and ownership of assets but knowledge levels were not high. 84% of men reported no extramarital sex activity. 12% reported premarital sex only. 1.8% had extramarital sex of whom 50% had relations with more than 1 woman. 33% paid for sex and 10% had ever used a condom during extramarital sex. Only 9% reported having symptoms of STDs. Most men seeking treatment visited an allopathic practitioner. 60-70% of men sought treatment for symptoms. 54% of husbands with a high school education and 72% of husbands without any schooling felt wives should always follow their husbands instructions. 37% of noncontraceptors agreed that wives would have difficulty discussing family planning with them.
D2 dopamine receptor Gene TaqI A1 and B1 restriction fragment length polymorphisms: Enhanced frequencies in psychostimulant-preferring polysubstance abusers

Several lines of evidence suggest that presence of a D2 dopamine receptor (DRD2) gene variant marked by TaqI restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs) might contribute to vulnerability to substance abuse. Psychostimulants display the most robust enhancement of dopamine activity in mesolimbic/mesocortical circuits important for behavioral reward. The present study tests the hypothesis that a DRD2 gene variant might be more prominent in polysubstance users who preferentially use psychostimulants than in addicts with preferential opiate use or in those with no drug preference. Polysubstance users with histories of heavy daily preferential psychostimulant use more often displayed one or two copies of the TaqI A1 (27/62 = 43.5% vs 33/119 = 27.7% for controls), and B1 (20/62 = 32.3% vs 23/119 = 19.8% for controls) markers at the DRD2 locus. DRD2 gene marker distributions in abusers with more prominent opiate use, or those with no history of drug preference, were similar to control genotypes. Psychostimulant-preferring drug users also reported earlier onset of psychostimulant use. Our data are consistent with the hypothesis that DRD2 gene variants marked by these polymorphisms may work, probably in concert with other genetic and environmental factors, to enhance vulnerability to psychostimulant abuse.
EVOLUTIONARY AND ECOLOGIC SIGNIFICANCE OF OXYGEN‐DEFICIENT MARINE BASINS

Benthic invertebrates living in low oxygen regions of the Black Sea, Gulf of California, and basins off Southern California form three major biofacies associated with the following concentrations of dissolved oxygen: (1) an azoic region (≤ 0.1 ml/1), (2) a low diversity, small, soft-bodied infauna (0.3–1.0 ml/1), and (3) a diverse calcareous fauna (2 1.0 ml/l). These biofacies recapitulate the chronologic appearance of Pre-Cambrian trace fossils followed by a diverse calcified fauna in the Cambrian. The basin model has been used to reconstruct a Lower Cambrian oxygen level of 0.1 P.A.L. (present atmospheric level). This value is ten-fold that proposed in the Berkner-Marshall hypothesis.
Price transmission across the U.S. food distribution system

Price transmission models are estimated using recursive methods across 100 food commodities. From the individual commodities, short- and long-run price transmission coefficients are estimated for rising and falling prices. These coefficients are classified into five commodity categories and expressed as one vector while coding for causality, market levels, rising/falling prices, short and long run, and time period. Then the impact of each variable is estimated and inferences are drawn about the degree of price transmission. Results show that price linkages are strong but slightly declining over time, with some evidence of asymmetric behavior. Long-run rising prices are passed through more than long-run falling prices, except for fruits and vegetables.
Relationship between the pulse wave and the flow velocity wave and their propagation velocities in the arterial system: Implications for the assessment of regional physical properties of the arterial beds

The rate of propagation of pressure wave in a thick-walled viscoelastic tube depends on its wall stiffness following the Moens-Korteweg equation. It is hypothesized that pulse and flow waves are closely related and share the same physical principles of transmission. Twenty human subjects were studied to explore the relationship between the pulse and flow velocity waves in the arterial system. The pulse waves were recorded using the external pulse recorder from the right carotid and femoral arteries. The velocity signals were recorded from the same locations using pulsed wave Doppler technique. The onsets of the pulse and velocity waves correlated very closely in both the carotid and femoral arteries (r=0.96, p<0.001 and r=0.97, p<0.001 respectively). The carotid to femoral rates of transmission of the pulse and velocity waves, calculated by the foot to foot method, were very closely related (r=0.98, p<0.001, SEE=50 cm/sec). It is suggested that velocity waves follow the same physical principles of transmission as the pulse or pressure waves and a study of the velocity waves will enable one to assess the elastic properties of the arterial wall as suggested by the Moens-Korteweg equation. In addition, velocity signals can be obtained noninvasively from deeper vessels, potentially allowing assessment of regional elastic properties of different arterial beds. This may allow serial noninvasive monitoring for disease in different arterial segments.
XPS study of the Al/SiO2 interface viewed from the SiO2 side

The first nondestructive measurement of the chemical and physical characteristics of the interface between bulk SiO2 and thick aluminum films is presented. Both X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and electrical measurements of unannealed resistively evaporated Al films on thermal SiO2 indicate an atomically abrupt interface. Postmetallization annealing (PMA) at 450 C induces reduction of the SiO2 by the aluminum, resulting in the layer ordering SiO2/Al2O3/Si/Al. The XPS measurement is performed from the SiO2 side after removal of the Si substrate after etching with XeF2 gas and thinning of the SiO2 layer with HF:ETOH. This represents a powerful new approach to the study of metal-insulator and other interfaces.
A Review of: “Greenberg's Text Atlas of Emergency Medicine”

In his erudite forward to this beautiful book, Linden aptly evokes the quip that “one picture is worth a thousand words.” In few texts is this adage exemplified more than this one. Although this is...
Restricted Representation: The Role of Ethics and Esthetics in Framing Images of Suffering

Times of conflict produce a dizzying array of images of suffering. As conflict unfolds, photojournalists often scramble to capture the image that “perfectly” represents the human rights violations that are occurring on the ground. In turn, human rights advocates and organizations often utilize these images during the aftermath as a means of drawing global attention to a particular issue. From a surface perspective, it seems as though the advantages of representation through image are bountiful: Images generate publicity, images help people relate to a cause, images mobilize funds, etc. However, beneath the surface, there lie deep-seated and diverse ethical questions: Do photojournalists, as nonactive voyeurs, become a contributing factor to the suffering of the subject? Is the ethical course of action by the photographer sacrificed in the name of art? Moreover, at what point does the pursuit of the “perfect” image override one's ability to see the event as a human occurrence? There cannot be conclusive ca...
Gas Phase Acidity of a Cysteine Residue in Small Oligopeptides

Abstract The conformational effects on the gas-phase acidities of small cysteine-containing peptides were examined using ten oligopeptides. The gas-phase deprotonation enthalpies were measured using the extended Cooks kinetic method with full entropy analysis. The experiments were carried out using a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer. The values of Δ acid H were determined to be 335.6 ± 1.7 kcal/mol (AlaCysNH 2 ), 334.6 ± 1.8 kcal/mol (Ala 2 CysNH 2 ), 331.2 ± 1.8 kcal/mol (CysAlaNH 2 ), 330.5 ± 2.0 kcal/mol (CysAla 2 NH 2 ), 329.7 ± 1.8 kcal/mol (AlaCysAlaNH 2 ), 335.3 ± 1.8 kcal/mol (GlyCysNH 2 ), 334.6 ± 1.7 kcal/mol (Gly 2 CysNH 2 ), 330.4 ± 1.8 kcal/mol (CysGlyNH 2 ), 329.7 ± 1.8 kcal/mol (CysGly 2 NH 2 ), and 327.3 ± 2.0 kcal/mol (GlyCysGlyNH 2 ). The gas-phase acidities (Δ acid G ) and the deprotonation entropies (Δ acid S ) for these peptides were determined accordingly. These results suggested that the tripeptides were more acidic than the corresponding dipeptides by about 1 kcal/mol, and the N-cysteine peptides were more acidity than the isomeric C-cysteine peptides by about 4 kcal/mol. The initial conformations of the peptides were modeled via a conformational search using the MMFF method. The final geometries and energies were calculated at the B3LYP/6-31++G(d,p) level of theory. The calculated enthalpies of deprotonation agreed reasonably well with the experimental results. The conformations of the deprotonated N-cysteine peptides were more compact than those of the C-cysteine analogues. The more compact conformations allowed more efficient multiple hydrogen-bonding interactions between the thiolate anion and the nearby N H bonds. The greater acidities of the N-cysteine peptides were likely the results of the more favorable hydrogen-bonding and charge–amide dipole interactions that stabilized the thiolate anions more efficiently.
The Effect of Differences in Objective and Subjective Definitions of Childhood Physical Abuse on Estimates of Its Incidence and Relationship to Psychopathology.

The relationship between objective and subjective definitions of physical abuse and the lifetime prevalence of depression was examined in 280 women attending a family medicine clinic at a large medical center. Based on their responses to a detailed questionnaire regarding discipline and abuse in childhood, 28.2% of these women were objectively defined as abused. Only 11.4% subjectively defined themselves as abused. The proportion of women who experienced depression during their lifetime was highest among those who defined themselves as abused (83%), intermediate among those who met objective criteria for having been physically abused, but did not define themselves as such (56%), and lowest among those who did not meet objective criteria for a history of physical abuse (35%). Similar relationships were found for history of psychotherapy, receipt of psychoactive medication, history of hospitalization for depression, suicide attempts and self-injury.
The Psychology Experiment Building Language (PEBL) and PEBL Test Battery

Abstract Background We briefly describe the Psychology Experiment Building Language (PEBL), an open source software system for designing and running psychological experiments. New method We describe the PEBL Test Battery, a set of approximately 70 behavioral tests which can be freely used, shared, and modified. Included is a comprehensive set of past research upon which tests in the battery are based. Results We report the results of benchmark tests that establish the timing precision of PEBL. Comparison with existing method We consider alternatives to the PEBL system and battery tests. Conclusions We conclude with a discussion of the ethical factors involved in the open source testing movement.
A cost-minimizing diagnostic methodology for discrimination between neoplastic and non-neoplastic brain lesions: utilizing a genetic algorithm.

Abstract Rational and Objectives. The purpose of this study was to make an improvement in the performance of a logistic regression model in predicting the presence of brain neoplasia with magnetic resonance spectroscopy data by using a new approach for logistic regression coefficient estimation. This new approach, termed cost minimizing (C-min), introduced by one of the authors (Chetty), uses the cost function for prediction outcomes to estimate model coefficients and the prediction decision rule. To do this requires use of a genetic algorithm. Materials and Methods. Consecutive patients with suspected brain neoplasms or recurrent neoplasia referred for magnetic resonance spectroscopy were enrolled once a final diagnosis was established by histopathology or clinical course, laboratory data, and serial imaging. For the same magnetic resonance spectroscopy explanatory (input) variables, logistic regression models were constructed with conventional and C-min coefficient estimates, and sensitivity and specificity outcomes were compared at alternative probability threshold levels. Results. The C-min approach dominated the conventional approach in 14 of 18 trials, in that C-min had either fewer of both false negatives and false positives, or it had the same number of one type, and less of the other type of diagnostic error. C-min was always less costly. Conclusion. The C-min approach to logistic or other regression model estimation may be a step forward in reducing the cost and, often, the errors of diagnostic (and treatment) processes. However, this new approach must be validated on larger and more varied datasets, and its statistical performance characteristics determined before it can be implemented as a practical clinical tool.
Identification and Determination of the Partial cDNA Encoding the Pheromone Biosynthesis Activating Neuropeptide in Helicoverpa armigera

Abstract Sex pheromone biosynthesis is induced in many moths by a neuropeptide, PBAN, consisting of 33-amino acid amidated at the C-terminus. The present study is concerned with cloning and characterizing the partial sequence of Hea-PBAN cDNA which is isolated from the brain and suboesophageal ganglion complex (Br-Sg) of Helicoverpa armigera adults. From the cDNA sequence, it can be predicted that the cDNA has a PBAN domain with 33 amino acids, LSDDMPATPADQEMYRQDPEQIDSRTKYFSPRL, with FSPRL amidated at the C-terminus. The amino acid sequence of predicted peptides including the PBAN, is identical to that of H. zea and H. assulta.
Laser capillary spectrophotometry for drop-size concentration measurements

A laser capillary spectrophotometric technique (LCS), based on the method of Verhoff et al. (1969, 1977), is developed for the rapid and accurate determination of the bivariate drop size-concentration distribution for reactive liquid-liquid dispersions. The method employs a precision bore capillary, through which a sample is drawn from the mixing vessel by a vacuum pump. An appropriate light source is used to distinguish between the slugs of dispersed phase and continuous phase as the sample passes by two detection points in the capillary. The optical device is designed to measure drop size by the difference of light refraction between the two phases and drop concentration by the light absorbance of the organic phase in the drop. The new technique can automatically measure drop-size and drop-concentration distributions of thousands of drops within a few minutes. This technique can provide important information on the state of a reactive dispersion in situ and can provide information on the influence of dispersed-phase mixing effects on mass transfer and/or reactions in liquid-liquid dispersions. Further, the LCS technique provides the capability for on-line monitoring and control of units processing liquid dispersions.
A Convenient and Effective Preparation of Amino Acids from their Hydrohalide Salts

Abstract Although a good method for the conversion of amino acids to their hydrohalide salts has been available for some time,2 no broadly useful procedure has been reported for the reverse transformation. Most of the reported techniques are rather involved and show considerable variation in yield for the different amino acids. For instance, a variety of literature examined3 revealed 8 different methods with overall transformations averaging only 66%.
A hybrid consumption-based direct tax proposed for Bolivia

In 1994 the authors designed a consumption-based direct tax for the government of Bolivia. The proposal combined yield exemption treatment (exemption of interest income and no deduction for interest expense) of individuals with consumed income tax treatment (taxation or deduction of the net proceeds of borrowing and lending, as well as interest income and expense) of business. This article explains why taxation based on cash flow has administrative and economic advantages over a conventional income tax and why the hybrid system proposed is preferable to either pure form of consumption-based tax.
Chemical composition of bottom sediments within black hills region reservoirs of South Dakota and Wyoming

The objectives of this study were to determine the effect of heavy metals transported from mining areas due to historical mining activities within the Black Hills region of South Dakota and Wyoming US, and to evaluate the presence of major and trace elements resulting from influence of provenance, weathering, erosion, and sediment sorting within reservoir sediments. Soil core samples were collected from both inflow and outflow of the reservoirs. X-ray florescence analyses were performed to determine the presence of major and the trace elements concentration. Pactola and Sheridan Lakes had the highest concentration of As, Fe, Mn, and Rb/Sr ratios, while the Belle Fourche Reservoir had the highest U concentration. Spatial and temporal patterns of Rb/Sr ratio of the reservoir sediments were used to determine the weathering intensity of the catchment areas. With the exception of Angostura and LAK reservoirs, all Black Hills reservoirs were dominated by physical weathering processes within their respected watersheds. Immobile high field strength elements from within the reservoir sediments were higher compared to upper continental crust (UCC) concentrations, and further suggest the dominance of physical weathering processes for all reservoirs except LAK. Spider diagrams normalized to UCC concentrations indicate that Black Hills regional reservoirs were elevated in Zr, Hf, and U, further supporting the dominance of physical or mechanical weathering influences from their watersheds. Watersheds dominated by physical weathering processes are commonly subjected to high erosion, anthropogenic activities, and/or high precipitation processes.
CFD modeling and experimental study of resin-bonded sand/air two-phase flow in sand coremaking process

Abstract The results of an experimental study and numerical simulations of resin bonded sand/airflow in a square corebox with an H-shape insertion and passage between upper and lower pockets of the pattern are presented. A computer-controlled electronic system was designed and built to measure dynamic pressures and flow rates inside the corebox during mold filling, gassing and purging cycles of Phenolic Urethane Amine (PUA) process. Contour maps of the pressure distributions inside the corebox were created based on barometric measurements. A good agreement between experimental results and numerical simulations was found.
TH-A-18C-01: Design Optimization of Segmented Scintillators for Megavoltage Cone- Beam CT

Purpose: Active matrix flat-panel imagers incorporating thick, segmented scintillators for megavoltage cone-beam CT (MV CBCT) imaging have demonstrated strong potential for facilitating soft-tissue visualization at low, clinically practical doses. In order to identify scintillator design parameters that optimize performance for this purpose, a modeling technique which includes both radiation and optical effects and which lends itself to computationally practical implementation has been developed and explored. Methods: A hybrid modeling technique, based on Monte Carlo event-by-event simulation of radiation transport and separate determination of optical effects, was devised as an alternative to computationally prohibitive event-by- event simulations of both radiation and optical transport. The technique was validated against empirical results from a previously reported 1.13 cm thick, 1.016 mm element-to-element pitch BGO scintillator prototype. Using this technique, the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) and spatial resolution performance of numerous scintillator designs, with thicknesses ranging from 0.5 to 6 cm and pitches ranging from 0.508 to 1.524 mm, were examined. Results: CNR and spatial resolution performance for the various scintillator designs demonstrate complex behavior as scintillator thickness and pitch are varied - exhibiting a clear trade-off between these two imaging metrics up to a thickness of ˜3 cm. Based on these results, an optimization map highlighting those regions of design that provide a balance between these metrics was created. The map indicates that, for a given set of optical parameters, scintillator thickness and pitch can be judiciously chosen to maximize performance without resorting to thicker, more costly scintillators. Conclusion: Modeling radiation and optical effects in thick, segmented scintillators through use of a hybrid modeling technique provides a practical way to gain insight as to how to optimize the performance of such devices for radiotherapy imaging. Assisted by such modeling, the development of practical designs should greatly facilitate low-dose, soft tissue visualization through MV CBCT imaging. This project was supported in part by NIH grant R01 CA051397.
Definition of Race and Ethnicity in Older People in Medicare and Medicaid

BACKGROUND: Race and ethnicity are important predictors of health care access and outcomes, but quality of their documentation in the healthcare system is often problematic. OBJECTIVES: To study the agreement between Medicare and Medicaid descriptions of race and ethnicity in older beneficiaries. DESIGN: Quasiexperimental design in a natural practice setting. SETTING: New Jersey. PARTICIPANTS: 153,241 dually enrolled participants in Medicare and Medicaid. MEASUREMENTS: Agreement rates between administrative databases on recipients' race and ethnicity. RESULTS: Agreement between Medicare and Medicaid on the recipients' race and ethnicity was modest (kappa = .58; 95% CI, .57-.58) for men and women alike and across different age groups. Depending on whether Medicare or Medicaid was used as the reference standard, the relative agreement rates for race and ethnic group assignments varied. For example, using Medicare as the reference, the relative agreement rate was 84% for whites, 74% for blacks, 61 % for others, 23% for Hispanics, and only 5% for Asians. Using Medicaid as the reference, a different pattern emerged. However, such gradients of agreement rates across racial groups were observed in both programs. Medicare and Medicaid reported different percentages of all race and ethnicity groups, with Medicaid reporting greater proportions of White and Black beneficiaries, and Medicare reporting greater proportions of Hispanic, Asian, and Other groups. CONCLUSIONS: Depiction of race and ethnicity data in large government health insurance programs is approximate at best and often contradictory from one program to another. This can impede efforts to study the relationship between these important characteristics and health care utilization and outcomes. J Am Geriatr Soc 47:730–733, 1999.