cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome: A case study and discussion.

Background and purpose Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) was first described in the literature in 2004. The pathophysiology of CHS remains largely unknown. The syndrome is becoming more prevalent in inpatient settings and emergency departments as the legal usage of cannabis proliferates, although it is often not recognized when encountered. While symptoms of CHS are becoming better defined, early recognition and comprehensive treatment plans with reproducible outcomes remain elusive. Symptoms can be further complicated by the presence of chronic conditions or comorbidities. The purpose of this article is to consolidate findings from the literature, identify commonalities in clinical characteristics and pathogenesis, and highlight diagnostic and treatment approaches. Methods Data collection methods include a review of the literature on CHS published in the past 10 years. Case study data were gathered from a patient interview and chart review. Conclusions and implications for practice Through better recognition of CHS, nurse practitioners and other providers can promptly and accurately diagnosis the condition and improve treatment plans for these patients.
Updates in Pediatric Urology: Highlights of the American Academy of Pediatrics Section on Urology Annual Meeting, October 8-10, 2005, Washington, DC.

The American Academy of Pediatrics Section on Urology’s Annual Meeting was held in Washington, DC, October 8–10, 2005. More than 100 papers and posters were presented on a wide range of topics, including cryptorchidism, genitourinary tumors, varicocele, exstrophy, sexual differentiation, reflux, hypospadias, neurogenic bladder, hydronephrosis, valves, and voiding dysfunction. Dr. Dixon Walker received the Pediatric Urology Medal. He is known for his numerous contributions to pediatric urology, especially in the area of vesicoureteral reflux. He also served as the first pediatric section editor of the Journal of Urology. The meeting was well attended by pediatric urologists from North America, South America, Europe, and Asia. Select clinical abstracts from the meeting are high-lighted below.
Design Approach for Investigating Multimodal Communication in Dismounted Soldier-Robot Interaction

For several decades there has been continuous growth in the field of robotics, with recent trends driving towards a vision of humans collaborating in a cohesive unit with automated counterparts. Enabling true mixed-initiative teaming between a human and robot will require communication capabilities and cognition comparable to human teammates. Multimodal communication is a framework in which interfaces can be created supporting the flexible selection of different modalities (e.g. speech, gestures) for these transactions. A major challenge for human factors researchers investigating human robot collaboration with multimodal interfaces is the current limitations of robots. Therefore, simulations and wizard-of-oz type experiments are heavily employed to measure performance, workload, and other factors in future mixed-initiative scenarios. Although these techniques facilitate experimentation, it can be difficult to transition findings to working prototypes of today’s robots. For example, a researcher finds an effective way to convey a robots decision making rationale in a simulation-based study, but has no working robot that can drive the content in reality. Furthermore, the literature regarding multimodal communication with robots applied to the military domain is limited. For example, evaluation of different modalities as part of an interrupting task has been explored in driving scenarios, but not between robot(s) and soldiers. In many cases there is conflict in findings across domains. To address this challenge, this paper describes how a multimodal interface for a real robotic platform developed under the U.S. Army Research Labs Robotics Collaborative Technology Alliance (RCTA) was extended to support standalone simulation of interactions and integration with simulated virtual environments. This functionality enables researchers to assess new interaction techniques using the same software that will interact with a real platform to facilitate transition of their research. Furthermore, experiment design approaches including theory-based tasks in a military relevant mission (Cordon and Search) are discussed.
Comment: Reciprocity and the Rise of Populism

It has recently been contended that the rise of populism in the US, culminating in the election of Donald Trump, vindicates liberal political theory, and the liberal political theory of John Rawls in particular. For the election of someone like Trump is just what Rawls’s theory would lead us to expect. Rawls’s theory would lead us to expect it because Rawls thought that if a liberal democracy is to be stable, it must satisfy the demands of reciprocity. But there is ample evidence that the contemporary US flouts those demands, and so an angry backlash of the sort that carried Trump to the White House is not surprising. I draw on research sociologist Arlie Hochschild did among voters on the American right to show that the failure of reciprocity which explains Trump’s election is not a failure of exactly the form of reciprocity Rawls had in mind. The difference between the two forms of reciprocity is suggestive. It suggests the sort of policy conclusions liberals and progressives ought to draw from Rawls’s theory to address our current predicament.
STEMing from scholarship and resilience: A case study focusing on U.S. undergraduate women who are thriving in STEM

Research suggests a variety of challenges often impede women’s achievement and persistence in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers. However, some women persist in STEM fields and attain laudable professional standing (e.g., academic tenure, supervisory positions in industry). As such, the current study employed a case study to examine the characteristics of nascent STEM success within a diverse sample of U.S. undergraduate women ( N = 9) participating in a summer research program. Qualitative interviews and observations focused on understanding women’s STEM career experiences and trajectories to date. Thematic analysis revealed that women’s educational attitudes and opportunities as well as resilience were integral in their ability to thrive in STEM. In addition, women’s background characteristics, such as ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and student status provided unique intersectional insight into the nuances of STEM success. Overall, findings extend prior research, which typically focuses on persistence, by illuminating constructs that enable women to thrive in STEM. Moreover, findings can be leveraged to inform interventions that aim to improve women’s standing in STEM fields.
Youth quotas and “Jurassic Park” politicians: age as a heuristic for vote choice in Tunisia’s new democracy

Countries that undergo a democratic transition often adopt youth quotas to ensure stability and legitimacy in the eyes of a potentially rebellious youth cohort. Tunisia followed this trend by insta...
The Ironic Defense of Socrates: Final Speech (38c1–42a5)

Socrates' final speech (38c1–42a5) has three parts: first he speaks to the condemners; then to the acquitters; and then to, or at least about, the condemners once more. Speech to the Condemners (38c1–39d9) To the condemners, Socrates makes three points. First, he says that they are foolish to kill him because he would have died soon anyway. This, of course, may help to explain why he was so willing to provoke the jury (38c1–7; cf. 41d3–5). Second, he says that he was convicted, not because he was at a loss for words – “far from it” – but because he refused to do and say the shameful things that defendants usually do and say. This confirms that he was not being honest when, at the outset of his defense, he implied that he was unfamiliar with courtroom speech and hence incapable of addressing the jury in the customary manner (38d1–39b8, 17c–d). Third, he asserts that by condemning him they have furthered rather than hindered the cause of philosophy or examination in the city – partly because after his death his reputation for wisdom will grow, he will been seen as a martyr, and the city will be put on the defensive (38c1–4; cf. 20d8–e3); but also for another reason: You have done this deed supposing that you will be released from giving an account of your life, but it will turn out much the opposite for you, as I affirm. There will be more who will refute you, whom I have now been holding back; you did not perceive them.[…]
Investigation of Micromotion Kinematics of Continuum Robots for Volumetric OCT and OCT-Guided Visual Servoing

Continuum robots (CRs) have been recently shown capable of micron-scale motion resolutions. Such motions are achieved through equilibrium modulation using indirect actuation for altering either internal preload forces or changing the cross-sectional stiffness along the length of a CR. Previously reported, but unexplained, turning point behavior is modeled using two approaches. An energy minimization approach is first used to explain the source of this behavior. Subsequently, a kinematic model using internal constraints in multibackbone CRs is used to replicate this turning point behavior. An approach for modeling the micromotion differential kinematics is presented using experimental data based on the solution of a system of linear matrix equations. This approach provides a closed-form approximation of the empirical micromotion kinematics and could be easily used for real-time control. A motivating application of image-based biopsy using 3-D optical coherence tomography (OCT) is envisioned and demonstrated in this article. A system integration for generating OCT volumes by sweeping a custom B-mode OCT probe is presented. Results showing high accuracy in obtaining 3-D OCT measurements are shown using a commercial OCT probe. Qualitative results using a miniature probe integrated within the robot are also shown. Finally, closed-loop visual servoing using OCT data are demonstrated for guiding a needle into an agar channel. Results of this article present what we believe is the first embodiment of a CR capable of micro and macromotion control for 3-D OCT imaging. This approach can support the development of new technologies for CRs capable of surgical intervention and micromotion for ultraprecision tasks.
The floral ecology and breeding system of Veratrum virginicum (Melanthiaceae)1

We analyzed the floral biology of a population of the threatened/endangered Veratrum virginicum (L.) W.T. Aiton at the Shaw Nature Reserve (Missouri, USA), comparing our results to the first and only study of this species by Charles Robertson (1896). We confirmed most of Robertson's original descriptions regarding floral presentation, protandry, and insect pollination but found the following new information. Each flower lived 9–11 days and smelled of raw liver and latex. We discerned four floral stages based on gradual changes in style and stamen orientation, which might assist in insect-mediated pollination. We determined that stigmas became receptive by the fifth day of anthesis. The generalist pollination system included three Lasioglossum species (Halictidae) and the beetle Chauliognathus marginatus Fabr. (Cantharidae). Most floral foragers showed a geometric mean of body dimensions between 2–3 mm. Approximately 40% of foraging insects carried heterospecific pollen loads, combining the host flower's pollen with grains from up to seven co-blooming taxa. Field observations suggest that all bees foraged on multiple inflorescences whereas beetles remained on the same inflorescence for hours. Larger Apidae species showed symptoms of nectar poisoning. Epifluorescence showed that flowers exposed to visiting insects contained < 5 pollen tubes per gynoecium. Fruit set was 3% for bagged flowers and 51% for exposed flowers. However, the conversion rate of ovules into seeds was low in both bagged (2%) and exposed (6%) flowers. We interpret low reproductive success as one explanation for current declines in populations of this species.
Public health response to COVID-19 for persons living with dementia in communities, acute care, and long-term care settings

Abstract Background Emergencies and disasters can exacerbate or complicate unique vulnerabilities associated with dementia The Healthy Brain Initiative?s State and Local Public Health Partnerships to Address Dementia: The 2018-2023 Road Map calls for addressing the special needs of people with dementia and caregivers in emergency preparedness/response Method During the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, public health professionals play a critical role in protecting people living with dementia, their caregivers and families The Alzheimer's Association and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) educated public health professionals and partners about the unique challenges associated with dementia during the pandemic and steps to tailor the emergency response Homes in the community, acute care and long-term care are three settings that require unique public health responses Result Challenges encountered vary by setting In homes and the community, people living with dementia and their caregivers have been affected by the suspension of adult day services, social events, congregate meals, respite care, peer support groups, community education, physical activity classes and more, including virtual delivery of non-urgent primary care, case management and behavioral health Many emergency departments and hospitals adopted no-visitor policies to reduce transmission of COVID-19;however, caregivers for people living with dementia provide essential medical and emotional support that aids diagnosis and treatment Long-term care (LTC) facilities are especially prone to COVID-19 outbreaks due to the concentration of vulnerable older adults, many with some form of cognitive impairment Provision of person-centered dementia care is hampered by no-visitor policies without caregiver allowances and limited training of professionals working in LTC facilities during the crisis Conclusion Taking immediate public health actions will not only help minimize the negative impacts of COVID-19 on people living with dementia and their caregivers, but also support effective, efficient delivery of person-centered care Through this session, public health professionals will quickly learn about challenges posed by dementia in these settings, immediate steps to better protect health and safety for this population, and resources their departments can use Disclaimer: The findings and conclusions in this report are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official position of the CDC
Spatial-frequency-dependent pulse height spectroscopy of x-ray scintillators using single x-ray imaging

Indirect flat panel imager (I-FPI) performance is limited by noise in the scintillator’s response to single x-rays, i.e. random variation of gain and blur. Single x-ray imaging (SXI) is an experimental methodology to record the response of scintillators to single x-rays using an image intensifier that is lens coupled to an EMCCD camera. In this work we developed a framework for using ensembles of SXI images to compute the spatial-frequency-dependent pulse height spectrum, Pr[g(f)], a novel detector performance metric whose moments may be used to compute scintillator MTF(f), qNNPS(f), and DQE(f). The approach is demonstrated using cesium iodide (CsI:Tl) samples of various thicknesses and screen-optical properties. SXI was conducted on each sample using ~60 keV γ-rays emitted by Am-241. Each image in an SXI ensemble was summed in 1D, and Fourier transformed to form an ensemble of frequencydependent responses. The histogram at each frequency f forms the Pr[g(f)]. To validate this approach against standard methods, each sample was also evaluated using the standard method by coupling it to a photodiode-TFT array as in a conventional I-FPI. MTF(f) and qNNPS(f) were measured using a slanted edge and flood field images, respectively, using an 85 kVp x-ray spectrum filtered to achieve an average energy of 60 keV. MTF(f) and qNNPS(f) results agreed well between both methods, and discrepancies were consistent with the differing experimental conditions. The Pr[g(f)] may be used to help optimize CsI:Tl in I-FPIs, and to improve the computational efficiency of Monte Carlo simulations of I-FPI performance.
Performance and Portability of a Linear Solver Across Emerging Architectures

A linear solver algorithm used by a large-scale unstructured-grid computational fluid dynamics application is examined for a broad range of familiar and emerging architectures. Efficient implementation of a linear solver is challenging on recent CPUs offering vector architectures. Vector loads and stores are essential to effectively utilize available memory bandwidth on CPUs, and maintaining performance across different CPUs can be difficult in the face of varying vector lengths offered by each. A similar challenge occurs on GPU architectures, where it is essential to have coalesced memory accesses to utilize memory bandwidth effectively. In this work, we demonstrate that restructuring a computation, and possibly data layout, with regard to architecture is essential to achieve optimal performance by establishing a performance benchmark for each target architecture in a low level language such as vector intrinsics or CUDA. In doing so, we demonstrate how a linear solver kernel can be mapped to Intel® Xeon™ and Xeon Phi™, Marvell® ThunderX2®, NEC® SX-Aurora™ TSUBASA Vector Engine, and NVIDIA® and AMD® GPUs. We further demonstrate that the required code restructuring can be achieved in higher level programming environments such as OpenACC, OCCA, and Intel® OneAPI™/SYCL, and that each generally results in optimal performance on the target architecture. Relative performance metrics for all implementations are shown, and subjective ratings for ease of implementation and optimization are suggested.
Design and rationale of a clinical trial to increase cardiomyocyte division in infants with tetralogy of Fallot.

Abstract Background Patients with Tetralogy of Fallot with pulmonary stenosis (ToF/PS), the most common form of cyanotic congenital heart disease (CHD), develop adverse right ventricular (RV) remodeling, leading to late heart failure and arrhythmia. We recently demonstrated that overactive β-adrenergic receptor signaling inhibits cardiomyocyte division in ToF/PS infants, providing a conceptual basis for the hypothesis that treatment with the β-adrenergic receptor blocker, propranolol, early in life would increase cardiomyocyte division. No data are available in ToF/PS infants on the efficacy of propranolol as a possible novel therapeutic option to increase cardiomyocyte division and potentially reduce adverse RV remodeling. Methods Using a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, we will evaluate the effect of propranolol administration on reactivating cardiomyocyte proliferation to prevent adverse RV remodeling in 40 infants with ToF/PS. Propranolol administration (1 mg/kg po QID) will begin at 1 month of age and last until surgical repair. The primary endpoint is cardiomyocyte division, quantified after 15N-thymidine administration with Multi-isotope Imaging Mass Spectrometry (MIMS) analysis of resected myocardial specimens. The secondary endpoints are changes in RV myocardial and cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Conclusion This trial will be the first study in humans to assess whether cardiomyocyte proliferation can be pharmacologically increased. If successful, the results could introduce a paradigm shift in the management of patients with ToF/PS from a purely surgical approach, to synergistic medical and surgical management. It will provide the basis for future multi-center randomized controlled trials of propranolol administration in infants with ToF/PS and other types of CHD with RV hypertension. Clinical trial registration: The trial protocol was registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04713657).
Pulmonary endometriosis

Pulmonary endometriosis is manifested as either asymptomatic pulmonary nodules or as pneumothorax, hemothorax, or hemoptysis during menses. We review 84 cases of pulmonary endometriosis in the English literature and report 3 additional patients. One of our patients is the first reported to have hemoneumothorax. Catamenial pneumothorax usually involved the right chest, and occurred in young nulliparous women without pelvic endometrosis. Pleuroscopy, laparoscopy with pneumoperitoneum, and thoracotomy produced a tissue diagnosis infrequently. Hormonal suppression of ovulation and pleurodesis usually corrected this disorder. Catamenial hemothorax only affected the right chest, but occurred in older multiparous women with pelvic endometriosis. While thoracotomy or laparotomy produced a tissue diagnosis, these procedures were not curative. In contrast, our patient with this disorder was treated successfully with pleurectomy. Catamenial hemoptysis occurred in multiparous women without pelvic endometriosis. Bronchoscopy localized bleeding but never produced a tissue diagnosis. Thoracotomy produced endometrial tissue. Endometrial pulmonary nodules require a diagnosis but do not otherwise produce problems.
Inherited cancer and the primary care physician

Difficulties faced by primary care physicians as they increase their responsibility for the diagnosis of inherited cancer risk include issues of cognitive strategy, the context of care, and cultural and institutional factors. Charateristics common to many genetic disorders—such as rarity, variability, implications for relatives, and temporal pattern—render our usual cognitive strategies less effective. Constraints of managed care, care teams, and high turnover of panels create a particularly difficult context for the care of people at risk for inherited cancer. Echoes of the eugenics movement, the implications of expanding genetic knowledge, and concerns about discrimination all complicate collaborative clinical decision making. Eight strategies are suggested to cope with these barriers to diagnosis. Primary care physicians also face challenges managing patients identified as at increased risk for inherited cancer. These include confidentiality, coordination and communication. Concerns for protecting the patient's confidentiality can inadvertently leave primary care physicians with partial information. Coordination is complicated when multiple organ systems and individuals are at risk, and knowledgable specialty centers may be distant. Communication requires sensitivity and skill in translating complex concepts from molecular biology and statistics into lay terms. Seven strategies are suggested to help with management. Cancer 1999;86:2583–8. © 1999 American Cancer Society.
Modulating tumor infiltrating myeloid cells to enhance bispecific antibody-driven T cell infiltration and anti-tumor response.

BACKGROUND Tumor microenvironment (TME) is a dynamic cellular milieu to promote tumor angiogenesis, growth, proliferation, and metastasis, while derailing the host anti-tumor response. TME impedes bispecific antibody (BsAb) or chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-driven T cells infiltration, survival, and cytotoxic efficacy. Modulating tumor infiltrating myeloid cells (TIMs) could potentially improve the efficacy of BsAb. METHODS We evaluated the effects of TIM modulation on BsAb-driven T cell infiltration into tumors, their persistence, and in vivo anti-tumor response. Anti-GD2 BsAb and anti-HER2 BsAb built on IgG-[L]-scFv platform were tested against human cancer xenografts in BALB-Rag2-/-IL-2R-γc-KO (BRG) mice. Depleting antibodies specific for polymorphonuclear myeloid-derived suppressor cell (PMN-MDSC), monocytic MDSC (M-MDSC), and tumor associated macrophage (TAM) were used to study the role of each TIM component. Dexamethasone, an established anti-inflammatory agent, was tested for its effect on TIMs. RESULTS BsAb-driven T cells recruited myeloid cells into human tumor xenografts. Each TIM targeting therapy depleted cells of interest in blood and in tumors. Depletion of PMN-MDSCs, M-MDSCs, and particularly TAMs was associated with enhanced T cell infiltration into tumors, significantly improving tumor control and survival in multiple cancer xenograft models. Dexamethasone premedication depleted monocytes in circulation and TAMs in tumors, enhanced BsAb-driven T cell infiltration, and anti-tumor response with survival benefit. CONCLUSION Reducing TIMs markedly enhanced anti-tumor effects of BsAb-based T cell immunotherapy by improving intratumoral T cell infiltration and persistence. TAM depletion was more effective than PMN- or M-MDSCs depletion at boosting the anti-tumor response of T cell engaging BsAb.
Continuous-Flow Left Ventricular Assist Device Support in Patients with Ischemic Versus Nonischemic Cardiomyopathy

To determine whether the cause of cardiomyopathy affects outcomes in patients who undergo continuous-flow left ventricular assist device support, we compared postimplant adverse events and survival between patients with ischemic and nonischemic cardiomyopathy. The inclusion criteria for the ischemic group were a history of myocardial infarction or revascularization (coronary artery bypass grafting or percutaneous coronary intervention), ≥75% stenosis of the left main or proximal left anterior descending coronary artery, or ≥75% stenosis of ≥2 epicardial vessels. From November 2003 through March 2016, 526 patients underwent device support: 256 (48.7%) in the ischemic group and 270 (51.3%) in the nonischemic group. The ischemic group was older (60.0 vs 50.0 yr), included more men than women (84.0% vs 72.6%), and had more comorbidities. More patients in the nonischemic group were able to have their devices explanted after left ventricular recovery (5.9% vs 2.0%; P=0.02). More patients in the ischemic group had gastrointestinal bleeding (31.2% vs 22.6%; P=0.03), particularly from arteriovenous malformations (20.7% vs 11.9%; P=0.006) and ulcers (16.4% vs 9.3%; P=0.01). Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed no difference in overall survival between groups (P=0.24). Older age, previous sternotomy, higher total bilirubin level, and concomitant procedures during device implantation independently predicted death (P ≤0.03), whereas cause of heart failure did not (P=0.08). Despite the similarity in overall survival between groups, ischemic cardiomyopathy was associated with more frequent gastrointestinal bleeding. This information may help guide the care of patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy who receive continuous-flow left ventricular assist device support.
Polymer film-nanoparticle composites as new multimodality, non-migrating breast biopsy markers

To develop a breast biopsy marker that resists fast and slow migration and has permanent visibility under commonly used imaging modalities. A polymer-nanoparticle composite film was prepared by embedding superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles and a superelastic Nitinol wire within a flexible polyethylene matrix. MRI, mammography, and ultrasound were used to visualize the marker in agar, ex vivo chicken breast, bovine liver, brisket, and biopsy training phantoms. Fast migration caused by the “accordion effect” was quantified after simulated stereotactic, vacuum-assisted core biopsy/marker placement, and centrifugation was used to simulate accelerated long-term (i.e., slow) migration in ex vivo bovine tissue phantoms. Clear marker visualization under MRI, mammography, and ultrasound was observed. After deployment, the marker partially unfolds to give a geometrically constrained structure preventing fast and slow migration. The marker can be deployed through an 11G introducer without fast migration occurring, and shows substantially less slow migration than conventional markers. The polymer-nanoparticle composite biopsy marker is clearly visible on all clinical imaging modalities and does not show substantial migration, which ensures multimodal assessment of the correct spatial information of the biopsy site, allowing for more accurate diagnosis and treatment planning and improved breast cancer patient care. • Polymer-nanoparticle composite biopsy markers are visualized using ultrasound, MRI, and mammography. • Embedded iron oxide nanoparticles provide tuneable contrast for MRI visualization. • Permanent ultrasound visibility is achieved with a non-biodegradable polymer having a distinct ultrasound signal. • Flexible polymer-based biopsy markers undergo shape change upon deployment to minimize migration. • Non-migrating multimodal markers will help improve accuracy of pre/post-treatment planning studies.
Familial colorectal cancer type X

Three to four percent of colon cancers occur in the setting of inherited or familial cancer syndrome. Currently approximately half of these are currently attributed to hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) [1, 2].
Effects of progesterone on some enzymes of fat and carbohydrate metabolism in rat liver.

The known effect of progesterone on carbohydrate metabolism prompted a study of some of the hepatic “lipogenic” and “gluconeogenic” enzymes in rats treated with progesterone. Several enzymes providing lipid precursors (phosphofructokinase, malic enzyme, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, and citrate cleavage enzyme) showed increased specific activity. These changes may represent insulin effects. Specific activity of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase, usually associated with control of gluconeogenesis, was also increased. The latter is compatible with increased capability for glycogenesis, which is recognized as a progesterone effect.
Glycerol Kinase, the Pacemaker for the Dissimilation of Glycerol in Escherichia coli

The activity of glycerol kinase is rate-limiting in the metabolism of glycerol by cells of Escherichia coli. A mutant strain producing a glycerol kinase resistant to inhibition by fructose-1,6-diphosphate grows faster than its wild-type parent on glycerol as the sole source of carbon and energy. The amount of intracellular fructose-1,6-diphosphate was determined for wild-type cells growing exponentially on glycerol. The water content of such cells was also determined, allowing calculation of the intracellular concentration of fructose-1,6-diphosphate. This value, 1.7 mm, is adequate to exert substantial inhibition on the wild-type glycerol kinase. The desensitization of glycerol kinase to feedback inhibition also enhances the power of glycerol to exert catabolite repression, both on the enzymes of the glycerol system itself and on those of the lactose system. However, desensitization of glycerol kinase alone does not eliminate the phenomenon of diauxic growth in a glucose-glycerol medium. Biphasic growth in such a medium is abolished if the altered enzyme is produced constitutively. The constitutive production of the mutant kinase at high levels, however, renders the cells vulnerable to glycerol. Thus, when the cells have been grown on a carbon source with a low power for catabolite repression, e.g., succinate, sudden exposure to glycerol leads to overconsumption of the nutrient and cell death.
Vietnam and Public International Law

With each international crisis inevitably come the self­-styled "realists" proclaiming that there is no such thing as public international law. The Vietnam war is no exception, although here, due to the unusual complexity of the facts and the controversy over the applicable rules of international law, many of the published replies to the "realist's" positions have themselves been insubstantial and unconvincing. Let us look first, briefly, at the arguments of one of the realists, and then, with equal brevity, at some of the counterclaims. The remainder of this comment will be addressed to the larger issues involved and some suggested avenues for coping with the implementation of the ideal of world peace through world law.
TFTR TF coil thermal analysis and test

A water-cooling-passage leak which developed in a TFTR (Tokamak Fusion Test Reactor) toroidal-field (TF) coil has precipitated interest in developing alternative cooling options for this coil system. A test on a spare coil was performed to establish a low-power heating schedule (in preparation for an elevated temperature dry-out cycle on the leaking coil) and to determine the efficacy of gas cooling the TF coils. A computer analysis was performed using the test results to benchmark the code. The investigation of gas cooling was initiated as a contingency in the event of future irreparable leaks developing in the TF-coil cooling passages. It is believed that gas leakage into the electrical insulation would have a relatively benign effect on its dielectric strength, whereas recent experience on the TFTR indicated a substantial degradation of dielectric strength when in contact with water (the use of high-dielectric silicone oil as an alternative coolant is discussed elsewhere in these proceedings). Two- and three-dimensional thermal models are described, and a cooling analysis of the TF coil that compares air cooling, helium cooling and sulfurhexafluoride cooling is presented. >
Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty

Edited by Gerard A. Engh and Cecil H. Rorabeck. Baltimore, Williams and Wilkins, 1997. $130.00, 485 pp. The value of this text begins with the preface. In 1996, the number of primary total knee arthroplasties in the United States overtook that of primary total hip replacements and the rate of knee revision increased by almost 12 per cent compared with that in 1995. Given the more active lifestyles of the increasing population of patients who are less than sixty-five years of age, this trend is likely to continue. The editors called upon surgeons and scientists who, in their phraseology, “have been there,” to share their collective knowledge and expertise regarding this most demanding reconstructive procedure. The first chapter delves into …
Nuclear Test Ban Treaty Gains Momentum With New and Upcoming Measures

Although the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT), which opened for signatures in 1996, still requires eight remaining “annex 2” countries—including the United States and China—to ratify it to enter into force, the treaty recently has gained some momentum.
Systemic pseudallescheriasis in a patient with acute myelocytic leukemia

Presented is a case of widely disseminated systemic pseudallescheriasis in a 41 year old male with acute myelocytic leukemia. The immediate cause of death appeared to be due to an extensive invasion of the lungs which showed massive intra-alveolar hemorrhages, congestion, mycotic thrombi, and multiple fungal lesions in all lobes. Pseudallescheria boydii was diagnosed histopathologically by virtue of its characteristic conidia present in miliary lesions throughout a wide range of host's tissues, including the brain and the thyroid. Three antemortem blood specimens cultured during the patient's final hospital stay were positive for the fungus. It was concluded the fungemia was responsible for the rapid and widespread dispersion of P. boydii in this debilitated patient who was granulocytopenic and immunosuppressed.
BRCA1 associates with the inactive X chromosome in late S-phase, coupled with transient H2AX phosphorylation

The BRCA1 tumor suppressor gene encodes an E3-ubiquitin ligase that has been implicated in several distinct biochemical processes. As the cell cycle progresses, BRCA1 proteins interact transiently with nuclear foci containing DNA replication and DNA double-strand repair machinery. A hallmark of these foci is the presence of S139 phosphorylated histone H2AX. BRCA1 was recently shown to associate with facultative heterochromatin at the inactive X chromosome (Xi), where it may play a role in maintaining gene silencing. As the kinetics of this interaction has not been described, we sought to establish whether association of BRCA1 with the Xi also correlated with replication. Here we demonstrate that the interaction of BRCA1 and the Xi is transient, occurring during late S-phase. This interaction is concomitant with the presence of distinct foci of S139 phospho-H2AX and specifically corresponds with late replication of the Xi. BRCA1 and phospho-H2AX appear on the Xi immediately adjacent to CAF-1, a known marker of replication fork activity. Taken together, these data implicate BRCA1 and the H2AX kinase in replication of facultative heterochromatin on the Xi, most likely in a fashion similar to that performed at sites of DNA replication and double-strand break repair observed on somatic chromosomes.
A Hybrid Algorithm for Solving Polynomial Zero-One Mathematical Programming Problems

Abstract This paper presents an algorithm for solving large-scale polynomial (nonlinear) zero-one programming problems. The procedure incorporates a mixture of pseudo-Boolean concepts and time-proven implicit enumeration procedures. Significant savings in the time required to obtain optimal solutions results from the use of a minimum cover to analyze the future effect of a particular implicit enumeration iteration. Additional improvement is obtained through the use of a term ranking strategy to control the arborization of the implicit enumeration process. Computational experience demonstrates that this algorithm can reduce the magnitude of the computer solution time for large problems from several minutes to a matter of a few seconds.
Phosphomimetic Substitutions in One or Both Ser43/45 Residues of Cardiac Troponin I Produces Comparable Changes in Contractile Performance

Cardiac troponin I (cTnI) is phosphorylated on three clusters of residues in response to protein kinase C (PKC) activation. Previously, studies on the cTnISer43/45 cluster showed phosphomimetic Asp substitution reduced peak shortening and accelerated re-lengthening in adult cardiac myocytes. The goal of the present study is to determine whether one or both Ser residues contribute to the functional response observed with cTnISer43/45Asp. We studied adult rat cardiac myocytes 2 and 4 days after viral-mediated gene transfer of cTnIFLAG, cTnISer43Asp or cTnISer45Asp (+FLAG). Western analysis indicated similar levels of cTnI replacement developed for all groups, and extensive replacement with cTnIFLAG (71±9%, n= 6), and FLAG-tagged epitopes of cTnIS43D (72±3%, n=8) and cTnIS45D (70±5%, n=8) within 4 days. Further analysis showed no significant change in cTnI stoichiometry and confocal analysis confirmed a sarcomeric incorporation pattern for each mutant. In functional studies, shortening amplitude decreased significantly in chronically paced myocytes expressing non-tagged Ser43Asp and/or Ser45Asp compared to controls (Control = 0.149±0.008 μm, n=36; cTnISer43/45Asp = 0.110±0.006 μm; n=32∗; cTnISer43Asp = 0.095±0.007, n=44∗; cTnISer45Asp = 0.108±0.007∗, n=50; ∗p<0.05 vs control) 4 days after gene transfer. An accelerated re-lengthening accompanied this reduced shortening (Time to 75% relaxation = TTR75% (ms): Control = 79±4; cTnISer43/45Asp = 62±4∗; cTnISer43Asp = 63±4∗, cTnISer45Asp = 65±3∗; ∗p<0.05 vs control). Interestingly, each single mutant also accelerated the time to peak shortening (TTP (ms): Control = 83±5; cTnISer43Asp = 68±3∗; cTnISer45Asp = 67±2∗; ∗p<0.05 vs control) while cTnISer43/45Asp did not (84±5). These initial results provide evidence that each Ser residue in the Ser43/45 cluster is capable of altering cTnI function in response to phosphorylation by PKC, yet phosphorylation of both residues does not produce an additive response.
RNA regulators of transcription.

Two new studies show that a noncoding RNA, B2, acts as a novel regulator of transcription. This RNA interacts with the general transcription machinery, thereby inhibiting transcription during heat shock response in mice.
Limits on cold dark matter from underground neutrinos

Abstract Limits on the flux of energetic neutrinos from the direction of the Sun are used to improve the limits on cold dark matter. The model of Olive and Srednicki is used to exclude a number of dark matter candidates including photinos, Higgsinos, Majorana neutrinos, massive Dirac neutrinos and sneutrinos. New limits are placed on photino and Higgsino masses. We also quote limits on fluxes from the Earth.
The clinical pharmacology of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies in the treatment of malignancy; have the magic bullets arrived?

Monoclonal antibodies (Mabs) are proteins in the immunoglobulin family that bind to specific protein epitope targets on cancer and stromal cells, allowing them to be successfully exploited as therapeutic agents. The prototype Mabs were produced from fusion of mouse B lymphocytes and mouse myeloma cells and were entirely murine in sequence. Subsequent advances in technology have allowed for humanized Mabs, which have different pharmacokinetic properties than murine Mabs in humans. Mabs antitumour activity is mediated through direct interaction with specific target molecules, deployment of immune cytotoxic pathways, or through chaperoning cytotoxic agents to tumour. Mabs are typically administered intravenously, are generally well tolerated and can have powerful anticancer activity. Humanized Mabs have a t1/2 in human sera of 2–3 weeks, which determines the frequency of administration. At present, nine clinically approved Mabs are used in the treatment of human cancer, and many others are in clinical trials. We discuss the pharmacology, clinical indications, and toxicity of the currently available anticancer Mabs in this review.
Crack prediction using nonlinear finite element analysis during pattern removal in investment casting process

Abstract A three-dimensional transient thermo-mechanical coupled nonlinear finite element model was developed to predict the possible crack formation of ceramic shell during rigid polymer pattern removal in the investment casting process. A smeared crack model was used to describe the response of the ceramic shell when crack initiates. A foam degradation model was implemented to account for the loss of mechanical properties of the foam during firing process. The effects of firing method, pattern type and complex geometry were investigated. The simulation results were validated with experimental findings. The developed model not only serves as a useful tool for designing foam patterns but also can be used for optimizing firing process parameters in investment casting process.
Sorption of PAHs by aspen wood fibers as affected by chemical alterations.

Sorption and desorption experiments for phenanthrene and pyrene, using untreated (UTR) and treated (bleaching and hydrolysis) aspen wood fibers, were examined to understand their sorption mechanisms. The wood was characterized by elemental and porosity analysis, solid-state 13C NMR, and diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy. Bleaching removed aromatic components, yielding the highest polarity and increased porosity, whereas hydrolysis removed a large percentage of hemicellulose and parts of amorphous cellulose, producing a matrix with more aromatic moieties, lower polarity, and higher porosity than that of the UTR wood fibers. All isotherms fitted well to the Freundlich equation and the N values had a decreasing trend from bleached (BL), UTR, low-temperature hydrolyzed to high-temperature hydrolyzed (HHY) wood fibers. BL fibers had the lowest sorption capacity (KOC) for both phenanthrene and pyrene. HHY had the highest KOC because of its high aromatic carbon content and low polarity....
Family factors and the course of bipolar affective disorder.

• Measures of family attitudes (expressed emotion [EE]) and interactional behaviors (affective style [AS]), both of which have been found to predict relapse in schizophrenia, were obtained from key relatives of 23 hospitalized recently manic bipolar patients. Patients were then followed up for a period of nine months after hospital discharge and rated on measures of clinical course, social adjustment, and medication compliance. Levels of intrafamilial EE and AS were found to predict likelihood of patient relapse at follow-up, especially when used as conjoint predictors of patient outcome status. Levels of AS also predicted degree of social adjustment at follow-up. The predictive relationships observed were independent of patient medication compliance, treatment regimen, baseline symptoms, demographics, and illness history. Results suggest that the emotional atmosphere of the family during the postdischarge period may be an important predictor of the clinical course of bipolar disorder.
A renormalization group approach to the stick-slip behavior of faults

We treat a fault as an array of asperities with a prescribed statistical distribution of strengths. When an asperity fails, the stress on the failed asperity is transferred to one or more adjacent asperities. For a linear array the stress is transferred to a single adjacent asperity and for a two-dimensional array to three adjacent asperities. Using a renormalization group (RG) method, we investigate the properties of a scale invariant hierarchical model for the stochastic growth of fault breaks through induced failure by stress transfer. An extrapolation to arbitrarily large scales shows the existence of a critical applied stress at which the solutions bifurcate. At stresses less than the critical stress, virtually no asperities fail on a large scale, and the fault is locked. Above the critical stress, asperity failure cascades away from the nucleus of failure; we interpret this catastrophic failure as an earthquake and it corresponds to the transition from stick to slip behavior on the fault. Thus the stick-slip behavior of most faults can be attributed to the distribution of asperities on the fault. We propose our stochastic mechanism as an alternative to the traditional hypotheses for the stick-slip behavior of faults. A major advantage of our approach is the inclusion of scale invariance. Thus the observed frequency-magnitude relation for seismicity is a natural consequence of our basic hypothesis.
The relation of structural and catalytic protein in the mitochondrial electron transfer chain

A mitochondrial preparation containing the complete electron transfer chain (EP 1 ) as well as a preparation containing only one sector of the chain (Complex IV) were resolved into structural and catalytic protein fractions. The respective oxidation-reduction components of EP 1 and Complex IV, as well as the lipid, were concentrated exclusively in the catalytic protein fraction. Integrated electron transfer activity appears to be unaffected by the removal of structural protein. Such losses in electron transfer activity as are sustained appear to be referable to the severity of the procedure for resolution rather than to the removal of structural protein. Under appropriate conditions structural protein will recombine with catalytic protein to “reconstitute” a particle that resembles the parent particle in respect to solubility, activity, spectral properties, and ultrastructure. The membrane-forming capability of the complexes is not affected by the removal of structural protein.
Do Work-Site Exercise and Health Programs Work?

Studies of high-profile work-site wellness programs suggest a a number of important advantages for sponsoring corporations. Participants report greater wellness and enhanced productivity. Objective data suggest that programs (1) chiefly attract employees with a favorable attitude toward both work and health, (2) reduce absenteeism and employee turnover, (3) produce a small increase in productivity, and (4) reduce healthcare costs. Meta-analysis provides limited evidence of program-related changes in physical activity, aerobic fitness, and cardiac risk factors. The cumulative benefit has been estimated at $500 to $700 per worker per year, enough to cover the cost of a modest wellness program. The big challenge is to sustain long-term participation.