cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Anomalously large gap anisotropy in the a - b plane of Bi 2 Sr 2 CaCu 2 O 8 + δ

Superconducting gap anisotropy at least an order of magnitude larger than that of the conventional superconductors has been observed in the a-b plane of ${\mathrm{Bi}}_{2}$${\mathrm{Sr}}_{2}$${\mathrm{CaCu}}_{2}$${\mathrm{O}}_{8+\mathrm{\ensuremath{\delta}}}$ in angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy. For samples with ${\mathit{T}}_{\mathit{c}}$ of 88 K, the gap size reaches a maximum of approximately 20 meV along the Cu-O bond direction, and a minimum of much smaller or vanishing magnitude 45\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} away. The experimental data are discussed within the context of various theoretical models. In particular, a detailed comparison with what is expected from a superconductor with a ${\mathit{d}}_{\mathit{x}}^{2}$-${\mathit{y}}^{2}$ order parameter is carried out, yielding a consistent picture.
Approximation Algorithms for a Directed Network Design Problem

We present a 2-approximation algorithm for a class of directed network design problems. The network design problem is to find a minimum cost subgraph such that for each vertex set S there are at least f(S) arcs leaving the set S. In the last 10 years general techniques have been developed for designing approximation algorithms for undirected network design problems. Recently, Kamal Jain gave a 2-approximation algorithm for the case when the function f is weakly supermodular. There has been very little progress made on directed network design problems. The main techniques used for the undirected problems do not extend to the directed case. Andras Frank has shown that in a special case when the function f is intersecting supermodular the problem can be solved optimally. In this paper, we use this result to get a 2-approximation algorithm for a more general case when f is crossing supermodular. We also extend Jain's techniques to directed problems. We prove that if the function f is crossing supermodular, then any basic solution of the LP relaxation of our problem contains at least one variable with value greater or equal to 1/4.
Decision-making in elementary age children: effects on motor skills and self-concept.

Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of vertical and horizontal teaching models on the development of specific motor skills and self-concept in elementary-aged children. The treatment group consisted of 230 Boston school children, grades one through five, who participated either in a physical activity program in which the teacher made all the decisions (vertical model) or in a program in which they shared in the decision-making process (horizontal model). An additional 115 elementary school children were used as a control group. The Cheffers Adaptation of Flanders Interaction Analysis System was used to verify the two treatments used in the study. The Body Coordination Test was used to test motor skill development, and the Martinek-Zaichkowsky Self-Concept Scale for Children was used to measure self-concept. Results indicated that a teacher-directed approach appears to be best for the development of motor skills and that a student-sharing approach has a definite positive effect ...
Alphavirus replicon particles containing the gene for HER2/ neu inhibit breast cancer growth and tumorigenesis

Overexpression of the HER2/neu gene in breast cancer is associated with an increased incidence of metastatic disease and with a poor prognosis. Although passive immunotherapy with the humanized monoclonal antibody trastuzumab (Herceptin) has shown some effect, a vaccine capable of inducing T-cell and humoral immunity could be more effective. Virus-like replicon particles (VRP) of Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus containing the gene for HER2/neu (VRP-neu) were tested by an active immunotherapeutic approach in tumor prevention models and in a metastasis prevention model. VRP-neu prevented or significantly inhibited the growth of HER2/neu-expressing murine breast cancer cells injected either into mammary tissue or intravenously. Vaccination with VRP-neu completely prevented tumor formation in and death of MMTV-c-neu transgenic mice, and resulted in high levels of neu-specific CD8+ T lymphocytes and serum IgG. On the basis of these findings, clinical testing of this vaccine in patients with HER2/neu + breast cancer is warranted.
The Problems with Patents: A Less than Optimistic Reading of the Future

This article examines a number of problems associated with patents. These are aspects of patents (and patent law) that are masked by conventional discourse that frequently equates strong patent protections with innovation and, ultimately, economic growth. This article will discuss: patents' links with knowledge and expertise; infrastructural requirements; innovation incentive structures; coercive tendencies (via high litigation and transactions costs); and global ‘harmonization' agreements (specifically TRIPs). In sum, it provides a glimpse of why patent law matters for understanding today's political economy and why global inequalities will continue to grow unless the international socio-legal landscape changes substantially.
Carcinoma of the fallopian tube: clinical management.

Abstract From 1970 to 1986, 36 women were diagnosed to have primary fallopian tube cancer. Fifty-three percent of the patients were Stage III with a median adjusted survival of 27 months. Although varied adjunctive therapies were employed, none provided a clear survival benefit. Five "second-look" procedures were performed. Only one was negative, occurring in a Stage IIIC patient treated with combination chemotherapy. She has continued without evidence of disease 26 months following diagnosis. Recurrent disease was uniformly fatal, despite efforts at salvage therapy. Disease biology and response to therapy parallels that of similar stage epithelial carcinoma of the ovary.
Cell Density Sensing Mediated by a G Protein-coupled Receptor Activating Phospholipase C

When the unicellular eukaryote Dictyostelium discoideum starves, it senses the local density of other starving cells by simultaneously secreting and sensing a glycoprotein called conditioned medium factor (CMF). When the density of starving cells is high, the corresponding high density of CMF permits signal transduction through cAR1, the chemoattractant cAMP receptor. cAR1 activates a heterotrimeric G protein whose alpha-subunit is Galpha2. CMF regulates cAMP signal transduction in part by regulating the lifetime of the cAMP-stimulated Galpha2-GTP configuration. We find here that guanosine 5'-3-O-(thio)triphosphate (GTPgammaS) inhibits the binding of CMF to membranes, suggesting that the putative CMF receptor is coupled to a G protein. Cells lacking Galpha1 (Galpha1 null) do not exhibit GTPgammaS inhibition of CMF binding and do not exhibit CMF regulation of cAMP signal transduction, suggesting that the putative CMF receptor interacts with Galpha1. Work by others has suggested that Galpha1 inhibits phospholipase C (PLC), yet when cells lacking either Galpha1 or PLC were starved at high cell densities (and thus in the presence of CMF), they developed normally and had normal cAMP signal transduction. We find that CMF activates PLC. Galpha1 null cells starved in the absence or presence of CMF behave in a manner similar to control cells starved in the presence of CMF in that they extend pseudopods, have an activated PLC, have a low cAMP-stimulated GTPase, permit cAMP signal transduction, and aggregate. Cells lacking Gbeta have a low PLC activity that cannot be stimulated by CMF. Cells lacking PLC exhibit IP3 levels and cAMP-stimulated GTP hydrolysis rates intermediate to what is observed in wild-type cells starved in the absence or in the presence of an optimal amount of CMF. We hypothesize that CMF binds to its receptor, releasing Gbetagamma from Galpha1. This activates PLC, which causes the Galpha2 GTPase to be inhibited, prolonging the lifetime of the cAMP-activated Galpha2-GTP configuration. This, in turn, allows cAR1-mediated cAMP signal transduction to take place.
Single-Molecule Analysis of Hepatitis C Virus NS3 Helicase Translocating on Single-Stranded RNA

Large, structured RNA molecules often require the need of RNA helicases in order to correctly and efficiently fold into their active conformation. Likewise, RNA helicases are needed to displace proteins from RNA molecules or to melt RNA structures to make parts of the RNA accessible for binding partners. Long-range translocation events of RNA helicases on their substrates are functionally important, yet lack understanding at the single molecule level. Using the RNA helicase NS3h from Hepatitis C Virus (DExH/D-box family) we used a custom-built “fleezer”, a single-molecule instrument combining fluorescence detection with an optical tweezer, to observe, identify and define underlying translocation events. This instrument provides the necessary means to locate a fluorescence-labeled molecule with the precision of a few nanometers on a long nucleic acid strand that is held under a defined and adjustable tension with piconewton accuracy by optical trapping. We measured long-range translocation of HCV NS3h on single-stranded RNA of various sequences and obtained data on velocity and processivity. With ca. 70 nucleotides per second, NS3h translocation on single stranded RNA is 2-2.5 times faster than on single stranded DNA.
Interactive, computer-based pediatric chest atlas.

OBJECTIVES The authors created a computer-based, interactive atlas of pediatric chest radiographs to facilitate (1) understanding of normal variants and (2) interpretation of pediatric chest radiographs in the acute setting. METHODS Seventy-three normal pediatric chest radiographs were selected for inclusion in the atlas by consensus after review by 3 pediatric radiologists. Sixteen abnormal pediatric chest radiographs showing a variety of abnormalities (infection, malignancy, congenital abnormalities, foreign body, and acquired disease), as well as 4 normal adult chest radiographs, were also included in the atlas. Images for the atlas were derived from Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine-compliant data. The atlas software was written in C# and offers features of a picture archiving and communication system viewer. In addition, the atlas offers annotated series that describe particular radiographic features of normal variants and disease. RESULTS The digital, interactive pediatric chest atlas displays normal chest radiographs of children aged 7 days to 17.8 years, as well as 4 normal adult chest radiographs and 16 abnormal pediatric chest radiographs. The digital interactive format of the atlas allows for (1) easy manipulation of atlas cases and (2) direct comparison between normal atlas cases and provided abnormal cases, as well as (3) the potential for direct comparison with images displayed on an institution's picture archiving and communication system. The atlas is available for free download at http://www.seattlechildrens.org/radiologyeducation/pediatric-chest. CONCLUSIONS Improved interpretation of pediatric chest radiographs in the acute setting may be facilitated by a comprehensive, computer-based, pediatric chest atlas.
Distal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis in seven cattle using the Acutrak Plus screw.

Objectives— To report a technique for arthrodesis of the distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ) with two 6.5 mm Acutrak Plus (AP) compression screws from a solar approach and outcome in 7 cattle. Study Design— Case series. Animals— Cattle (n=7) with DIPJ arthritis. Methods— Retrieved data from medical records of cattle that had undergone DIPJ arthrodesis using 2 AP screws via a solar approach were signalment, history, clinical signs, preoperative blood work, preoperative radiographs, complications, postoperative radiographs, and postoperative lameness evaluation. Outcomes, assessed by owner interview 6–26 months after surgery, were classified as excellent, good, or poor. Results— Fusion of the DIPJ was evident by 6 months. All cattle returned to full function with minimal lameness and normal appearance to the distal aspect of the limb. Four thoracic limbs and 3 pelvic limbs were affected; 3 medial and 4 lateral claws. Complications included moderate lameness associated with implants (n=2) that resolved after screw removal. Clinical Relevance— Use of the AP screw system in cattle is an excellent option for DIPJ arthrodesis with minimal postoperative morbidity and excellent return to function.
Age Differences in the Trends of Smoking Among California Adults: Results from the California Health Interview Survey 2001-2012.

The aim is to study the trends of cigarette smoking from 2001 to 2012 using a California representative sample in the US. Data was taken from the California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) from 2001 to 2012, which is a population-based, biennial, random digit-dial telephone survey of the non-institutionalized population. The CHIS is the largest telephone survey in California and the largest state health survey in the US. 282,931 adults (n = 184,454 with age 18–60 and n = 98,477 with age >60) were included in the analysis. Data were weighted to be representative and adjusted for potential covariance and non-response biases. During 2001–2012, the prevalence of current smoking decreased from 18.86 to 15.4 % among adults age 18–60 (β = −0.8, p = 0.0041). As for adults age >60, the prevalence of current smoking trend decreased with variations, started from 9.66 % in 2001, slightly increased to 9.74 % in 2003, but then gradually decreased, falling to 8.18 % in 2012. In 2012, there was a 14 % reduction of daily smoking adults age 18–60 (OR 0.84, 95 % CI 0.76–0.93, p = 0.0006) compared to 2001, while no significant reduction of daily smoking was observed for those age >60. The reductions of smoking prevalence for adults younger than 60 are encouraging. However, there is a concern for smoking cessation rates among those older than 60 years of age, particularly for African Americans.
Outcome for patients treated with laparoscopic versus open resection of hepatocellular carcinoma: case-matched analysis

This is a case-matched analysis of patients undergoing laparoscopic versus open hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), with specific regard to margin status and survival. Laparoscopic cases were matched with open controls by cirrhosis and tumor size (within 10%). Data were evaluated by logistic regression using the generalized estimating equation method. Mixed linear regression models were used to assess operative duration in the groups. Overall and disease-free survival were compared using a Cox proportional frailty model. Twenty laparoscopic cases were matched to 56 open resections. Thirty patients (39%) developed recurrence and 13 patients (17%) died, including one (1.3%) death within 30 days. There were no significant differences in age, gender, cirrhosis or tumor size. Paired univariate and multivariate analyses showed cases of laparoscopic resection had similar rates of transfusion and positive margins compared with open resection. Operative duration was similar in laparoscopic (mean 161 ± 37 min) and open (mean 165 ± 53 min) groups. The adjusted odds of length of stay ≥ 6 days was significantly lower in patients with laparoscopic resection [odds ratio (OR) = 0.07, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.02–0.27]. Both unadjusted and adjusted analyses showed no significant association between type of resection and overall or disease-free survival. Neither margin status, nor recurrence, nor survival was significantly different between the two cohorts. Laparoscopic resection for malignancy is safe, with a similar operative time as open hepatectomy. If tumor location is amenable, laparoscopic resection for HCC is a reasonable alternative to open resection with the added benefits of improved cosmesis and sooner discharge home.
The Anatomy and Basic Biomechanics of the Wrist joint

T he human wrist joint is an elegant mechanism that normally allows the hand to be positioned in space on the stable platform of the forearm. The wrist allows not only for the classic, or cardinal, motions of flexion, extension, radial deviation, and ulnar deviation, but also for limited longitudinal rotation, combined motions, and independent forearm rotation. Each of these motions normally enjoys a substantial magnitude of range, making the challenge of maintaining stability an even more difficult anatomic problem. Considerable effort is currently under way to increase our understanding of normal anatomy and normal biomechanics of the wrist, which is prerequisite to understanding pathomechanics and developing efficacious treatment plans. This article reviews certain basic features of wrist anatomy and applies them to a fundamental review of wrist joint biomechanics. Because this paper is not a comprehensive review, the reader is encouraged to explore these issues in greater detail with a more complete reading of the original references.
Time Spent Eating and Its Implications for Americans’ Energy Balance

The upward trend in Americans’ weight has precipitated research aimed at identifying its underlying causes. In this paper we examine trends in Americans’ time spent eating in an attempt to gain a better understanding of Americans’ changing eating habits and their predictors. Data used in the analyses come from four national time use surveys conducted between 1975 and 2007. We find that Americans’ total eating time has risen over the past 30 years largely because of increases in secondary eating time. Multivariate analyses reveal that shifts over time in wage rates, food prices, household income, and racial/ethnic composition may be contributing to Americans’ changing eating patterns.
Multiple node thermal analysis of Sedsat 1 using THAWS

Preliminary results are presented from a multiple-node thermal analysis of the Sedsat satellite, using the 'THAWS' Thermal Analysis Workstation code to create the 48-node System Improved Numeric Difference Analyzer/Net Energy Verification And Determination Analyzer model. Attention is presently given to Sedsat's construction and temperature requirements; a 5-15 C temperature-control band is shown to be achievable.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Microorganisms Cultured From the Anterior Chamber of Ruptured Globes at the Time of Repair

Purpose We studied events leading to the development of posttraumatic endophthalmitis by examining the significance of 15 factors on microbial contamination of injured eyes. Methods A prospective study was done of 30 ruptured globes in patients admitted to an urban medical center. Cultures were taken from the conjunctiva before and after preoperative disinfection and from the anterior chamber at the beginning and end of wound repair. Twenty-five of 30 patients received a three-day regimen of intravenous antibiotics that were begun before surgery. Results Anterior chamber samples grew microorganisms in ten (33%) of 30 eyes, with positive cultures recovered from specimens taken at the beginning of wound repair in eight eyes and at the end of wound repair in six eyes. Contamination with indigenous flora may have occurred at the time of injury in one eye and during repair in another eye. Microbes recovered included Staphylococcus, Corynebacterium , and Aspergillus species. No patient developed endophthalmitis. Of the 15 factors studied, only intravenous antibiotics significantly decreased the incidence of positive anterior chamber cultures in eyes treated before wound repair compared with eyes not receiving such therapy (P = .002). Conclusions Despite the frequency of anterior chamber microbial contamination during injury or repair of the wound, with our treatment protocol and the presence of physiologic mechanisms to reduce intraocular microbes, no eyes developed clinical endophthalmitis. With our limited sample size only intravenous antibiotic therapy was found significantly to reduce anterior chamber microorganisms at the time of surgical repair, supporting their prophylactic use against the development of posttraumatic endophthalmitis.
Some new directions for research on the biology of aging.

: A highly selective, eclectic, and personal view of new directions and new opportunities for research on the biology of aging is briefly outlined. Some concern is raised regarding the present emphasis on the use of centenarians for the definition of genetic loci responsible for unusually robust retention of structure and function. More progress is likely to be made were we to focus on the genetic basis for “elite” aging in middle-aged subjects examined for very specific phenotypes, as these are likely to be far less polygenic. Descriptive gerontology is entering a renaissance, given such new clinical tools as functional MRI and basic science tools such as functional genomics and proteomics. Advances in genomics should expedite answers to such questions as why some avian species have exceptionally long lifespans despite unusual loads of oxidative stress. One hopes to see renewed mechanistic studies, using such tools, at the systems levels. New methodologies are permitting the evaluation of stochastic alterations in gene structure and function in postreplicative cells. The exciting work on molecular misreading should prompt us to reexplore the Orgel hypothesis as it applies to such cell types. Epigenetic shifts in gene expression that occur in association with sexual maturation and the cessation of growth may have deleterious consequences late in the life course. It will therefore be important for gerontologists to investigate the molecular biology of pubescence. Finally, our community should investigate the impact of environmental “gerontogens,” agents that accelerate specific processes of aging and specific senescent phenotypes.
Computational Fluid Dynamics Modeling of Two-Phase Boiling Flow and Critical Heat Flux

This paper presents recent advances in the modeling of two-phase boiling flow and critical heat flux that have been implemented in the Extended Boiling Framework (EBF) [1, 2, 3]. The EBF code was developed as a customized module built on the foundation of the commercial Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) code STAR-CD, which provides general two-phase flow modeling capabilities, for the detailed analysis of the two-phase flow and heat transfer phenomena that occur in Boiling Water Reactor (BWR) fuel assemblies. These phenomena include coolant phase changes and multiple flow regimes that directly influence the coolant interaction with the fuel pins and, ultimately, the reactor performance. An effort to expand the EBF two-phase models and to explore their applicability to other CFD codes is currently underway.The paper presents results of recent CFD analyses of Critical Heat Flux (CHF) experiments that have measured the axial distribution of wall temperature in two-phase upward flow in a vertical channel with a heated wall. The experiments were designed to produce the onset of CHF in the upper half of the heated channel. The simulated axial distribution of wall temperature is compared with experimental data, illustrating the ability of the extended EBF model to capture the onset of CHF for a wide range of thermal-hydraulic conditions relevant for BWRs. The paper concludes with a discussion of results and plans for future work.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
The effects of acute exercise and increased atmospheric pressure on the hemostatic mechanism and plasma catecholamine levels

Abstract The hemostatic response to acute exercise and increased atmospheric pressure was studied in 20 healthy male subjects (18–35 yr of age) exercised to volitional exhaustion on a cycle ergometer in a hyperbaric chamber at 3 atmospheres absolute (ATA). As a means of comparison, 6 of the 20 subjects were exercised in the same manner at 1 ATA. Similiar increases in fibrinolytic activity (FA), Factor VIII activity (VIII:C), von Willebrand factor antigen (vWF:Ag) and plasma catecholamine levels were observed following acute exercise at 1 ATA and at 3 ATA. There were no changes in the levels of plasminogen, antithrombin III, Protein C or Fibrinopeptide A (FPA) with exercise either at 1 ATA or at 3 ATA. In addition, there were no changes in plasma catecholamine levels or any of the hemostatic variables measured when atmospheric pressure was increased from 1 ATA to 3 ATA without exercise. These findings demonstrate that increasing atmospheric pressure from 1 ATA to 3 ATA does not alter the exercise-induced changes in hemostasis. Therefore, exercise or physical exertion at 3 ATA for a time period not to exceed 30 min does not perturb the hemostatic mechanism and increase the risk of bleeding or thrombosis.
Atomic force microscopy of DNA-colloidal gold and DNA-protein complexes

ABSTRACTThe atomic force microscope (AFM)1 is capable of imaging and manipulating nucleic acids in solution and in air29' 13 We are developing methods for random and site-specific labeling of individual DNA molecules to facilitate manipulation of fragments excised in the AFM and for localization of specific DNA domains, such as protein binding sites and origins of replication. One successful method was to incorporate biotinylated nucleotides at random internal locations or specifically at the ends of linearized DNA molecules in vitro. Following complex formation with Snm diameter streptavidin-gold conjugates, chromatographic purification and passive adsorption of the complexes to mica, the biotinylated domains were easily localized in the AFM by virtue of the distinctive size and shape of the streptavidin-gold complex. In many cases unconjugated streptavidin (i.e., lacking gold) was alsoobserved attached to the biotinylated DNA. A second approach to site-specific labeling of DNA forimaging in the AFM was to react DNA with restriction enzymes having sequence-specific bindingproperties. Like the unconjugated streptavidin-DNA complexes, these enzyme-DNA complexes were
Functional Polymorphism in the Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Promoter as a Potential Risk Factor for Intracranial Aneurysm

Background and Purpose—There is convincing evidence that susceptibility to intracranial aneurysms (ICAs) has a genetic component. However, few studies have sought to identify functional variation in specific candidate genes that may predispose individuals to develop an ICA. Methods—ICA cases and controls were genotyped for a simple length polymorphism in the promoter of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) to test for association between variation in the promoter and the occurrence of ICA. Alternative alleles were cloned into an in vitro reporter vector, transfected into human HT1080 fibroblasts, and assayed for promoter activity by β-gal and luciferase assays. Electrophoretic gel shift assays were used to assess nuclear factor binding. Results—A length polymorphism in the promoter of MMP-9 was nonrandomly associated with the occurrence of ICA in a case-control study. This polymorphism was shown, by direct sequencing of 36 individuals, to be the only sequence variation within a 736–base pair region proximal...
Modification of the Microhematocrit Technique with Trout Blood

Abstract Commercial and laboratory-prepared capillary tubes for hematocrit were tested. A 10 percent solution of heparin was found to be best for the preparation of treated capillary tubes. For examination of trout blood laboratory-prepared capillary tubes were found to be superior to commercial tubes which are designed for human blood. Sharp, pointed heparinized capillary tubes were used with good results for collecting blood from the heart without killing the examined fish. Hematocrits determined directly in such tubes were found to have the same value as those prepared in other ways.
Reaching out to young investigators.

It is self-evident that the future of biomedical research depends on the development of the next generation of investigators. Supporting young investigators has always been a core mission of the American Heart Association, one of its most distinguished and noble accomplishments. As an official journal of the American Heart Association, the editors and I think that Circulation Research must also contribute to this mission. Our view that young investigators are a key audience of the journal has already resulted in several initiatives.1 For example, a major reason for the introduction of Profiles in Cardiovascular Science was our desire to highlight role models that could inspire and guide early career investigators.2 More recently, the introduction of New Leaders in Cardiovascular Science 3,4 was similarly motivated by our desire …
Comparative amoebacidal activity of some compounds related to emetine.

Summary and conclusions1. Members of 2 different series of compounds were tested against cultures of E. histolytica grown with E. coli. 2. E-2 proved the more effective of the 2 quaternary emetine derivatives, exhibiting an amoebacidal endpoint of 500 μg per ml; this was 10 times as effective as E-1. 3. Of the series of phenylalkylamides of phen-ylalkylaminoisovaleric acids, V-3 and V-1 proved approximately 10 times more effective than the corresponding methoxy-substituted moieties. V-3 was the most amoebacidal of all the above compounds, with an amoebacidal endpoint of 200 μg per ml, while the endpoint for V-1 was 500 μg per ml. 4. The amoebacidal activity of the compounds was shown to be independent of effects upon the associated bacterial flora, as measured both by surviving bacterial populations and oxidation-reduction potentials of the cultures. This activity was definitely influenced, however, by the pH during tests, more alkaline conditions being correlated with greater effectiveness. 5. Parallel t...
A Comprehensive Analysis of a Three-Phase Z-Source DC-AC Converter

This paper presents the analysis of a three-phase Z-source dc-ac converter operating in all the feasible operating modes. The converter has an impedance circuit which connects the power source to the converter main circuit. The Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) algorithm required for this converter is set forth after which the model which is useful for the steady-state and dynamic analyses are illustrated with some simulation results
Propositions and Facts

Propositions and facts require study from the standpoint of finite ontology. By finite ontology is meant the theory of an open system of total being in which the realistic epistemology is assumed and the infinite is neither required for reality nor disproved. “Finite” here, then, is to be interpreted as “at least finite.” The approach is not without antecedents but this does not mean that it lacks novelty. Both metaphysical realism and logical positivism have made large contributions to the position, which is, nevertheless, indecomposable. A fresh perspective in philosophy, though derived, may be something more than the sum of its parts. The prospects of philosophy are richer in possibilities than the history of its actual accomplishments would indicate. This view is reinforced by the dichotomy between those who teach philosophy as the account of a completed subject and those who counsel despair with regard to its achievements. The standpoint taken here represents neither, for by reacting against both ways of terminating inquiry we find ourselves still faced with a range of alternatives. Any philosophy would be as thin if it did not come out of the past as it would be sterile if it did not point toward the future.
Concurrent targeting of eicosanoid receptor 1/eicosanoid receptor 4 receptors and COX-2 induces synergistic apoptosis in Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus and Epstein-Barr virus associated non-Hodgkin lymphoma cell lines.

The effective antitumorigenic potential of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and eicosonoid (EP; EP1-4) receptor antagonists prompted us to test their efficacy in Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) related lymphomas. Our study demonstrated that (1) EP1-4 receptor protein levels vary among the various non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) cell lines tested (BCBL-1:KSHV+/EBV-;BC-3: KSHV+/EBV-; Akata/EBV+: KSHV-/EBV+; and JSC-1 cells: KSHV+/EBV + cells); (2) 5.0 μM of EP1 antagonist (SC-51322) had a significant antiproliferative effect on BCBL-1, BC-3, Akata/EBV+, and JSC-1 cells; (3) 50.0 μM of EP2 antagonist (AH6809) was required to induce a significant antiproliferative effect on BCBL-1, Akata/EBV+, and JSC-1 cells; (4) 5.0 μM of EP4 antagonist (GW 627368X) had a significant antiproliferative effect on BC-3, Akata/EBV+, and JSC-1 cells; (5) COX-2 selective inhibitor celecoxib (5.0 μM) had significant antiproliferative effects on BCBL-1, BC-3, Akata/EBV+, and JSC-1 cells; and (6) a combination of 1.0 μM each of celecoxib, SC-51322 and GW 627368X could potentiate the proapoptotic properties of celecoxib or vice-versa. Overall, our studies identified the synergistic antiproliferative effect of NSAIDs and EP receptor blockers on KSHV and EBV related B cell malignancies.
4:31 The dynamic mobility of vertebral compression fractures

Purpose of study: Vertebral height restoration is hoped to mitigate some morbidities and adverse biomechanical consequences of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) but this is unproven. Height restoration has been reported as the result of kyphoplasty [1] but is not generally thought to occur in vertebroplasty. The objective of this study is to describe the surprising frequency and substantial mobility of many osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures. Methods used: The institutional review board approved this retrospective, radiographic analysis of 41 consecutive patients with 65 VCFs who underwent vertebroplasty at a tertiary referral center. Selection criteria for vertebroplasty were pain of vertebral fracture origin, sufficient pain to impair activities of daily living, failure of reasonable medical therapy and time, comprehensive evaluation of osteoporotic, nonmalignant T5–L5 VCFs, technical feasibility, sufficient medical stability to tolerate vertebroplasty, absence of contraindication and informed written consent. Standing and supine cross-table lateral radiographs were evaluated preoperatively to assess fracture mobility and postoperatively to assess height restoration and sagittal alignment. All radiographic measurements were obtained with the use of a digitizing tablet (OrthoGraphics, SLC, Utah). Vertebral body height, area and kyphotic angle were reported as percent restoration compared with the original fracture. of findings: Mean patient age was 73.7 years. Average time from fracture to vertebroplasty was 89 days for mobile fractures and 133 days for fixed (nonmobile) fractures. Dynamic mobility was demonstrated in 44% of patients and 35% of treated vertebrae. In mobile fractures average posterior, middle and anterior vertebral height restorations were 15%, 93% and 106%, respectively. After vertebroplasty, mean vertebral body area increased nearly 30% and mean kyphotic angle decreased 40%. Intravertebral clefts, which represent vertebral cortical and cancellous discontinuity, were common in mobile fractures and were clustered at the thoracolumbar junction. Relationship between findings and existing knowledge: Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that can relieve pain of VCF. Kyphoplasty, a proprietary derivative of vertebroplasty, is the polymethlymethacrylate fixation of fractured vertebrae after purported vertebral height restoration using a percutaneous inflatable balloon tamp. Both have been shown to relieve fracture pain with an acceptable incidence of risk. We have documented that many VCFs are dynamically mobile and that recovery of lost height can be achieved with careful patient positioning alone during vertebroplasty. Overall significance of findings: This radiographic series demonstrates the surprising frequency and substantial mobility of many osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures. Fracture mobility must be considered when performing vertebral augmentation and when reporting and interpreting the significance of vertebral height restoration. Disclosures: No disclosures. Conflict of interest: No conflicts.
Structural changes in human tear lipocalins associated with lipid binding

Structural and conformational changes in tear lipocalins were detected in association with ligand binding and release. Circular dichroism measurements demonstrated that ligand binding induces β structure formation, aromatic side chain asymmetry, and a more rigid state in tear lipocalins (TL). The exposure of the tyrosyl component is less in apo-TL than in holo-TL. The sole tryptophan residue, Trp17, is buried in both holo- and apo-TL. The steady state exposure of Trp17 is the same in holo- and apo-TL, but the dynamic exposure is two-fold greater in apo-TL. Maneuvers to unfold the protein with urea or incubation in an acidic environment resulted in increased exposure of aromatic amino acids. Electron paramagnetic resonance studies verified that lipids are liberated from TL in an acidic environment. Acidic pH promotes conformational changes in TL involving aromatic residues, particularly the conserved residue Trp17. These changes are associated with lipid release. The liberation of lipid from the cavity of TL under acidic conditions involves a molten globule state of the protein. We postulate that TL, exposed to the steep surface pH gradient that exists at lipid–aqueous interfaces, would release lipid in association with a molten globule transition. The data suggest a plausible regulatory mechanism for lipid delivery from lipocalins at the tear film surface.
Intensive chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, high-dose methotrexate/ifosfamide, etoposide, and high-dose cytarabine (CODOX-M/IVAC) for human immunodeficiency virus–associated Burkitt lymphoma

BACKGROUND In the era of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), standard-dose chemotherapy for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated diffuse large B-cell lymphoma is becoming the standard of care. In contrast, the safety and efficacy of intensive regimens have not been established for Burkitt lymphoma (BL), a highly aggressive lymphoma for which moderate-dose chemotherapy is substandard in the HIV-negative population. METHODS To evaluate the feasibility of intensive chemotherapy in HIV-associated BL, the authors retrospectively reviewed 14 HIV-positive adults with BL treated at their center between 1988 and 2000. Eight patients were treated between 1996 and 2000 with cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, high-dose methotrexate/ifosfamide, etoposide, and high-dose cytarabine (CODOX-M/IVAC), one of the currently preferred intensive-dose chemotherapy regimens for BL. Six received other chemotherapy. Outcomes were compared with those of 24 HIV-negative adult patients with BL who had similar patient characteristics and were treated concomitantly (13 with CODOX-M/IVAC; 11 with other regimens). RESULTS Of the 14 HIV-positive patients, 63% had a complete response after CODOX-M/IVAC treatment, compared with 67% of patients receiving other chemotherapy. The 2-year event-free survival (EFS) rates were 60% and 60% after CODOX-M/IVAC or other regimens, respectively. Similar outcomes were seen despite the fact that 88% of CODOX-M/IVAC-treated HIV-positive patients had Stage IV disease, compared with one-third of HIV-positive patients treated with other chemotherapy. HIV status did not adversely affect long-term EFS independent of the treatment regimen (P = 0.88). When EFS was evaluated according to chemotherapy regimen independent of HIV status, CODOX-M/IVAC was found to be associated with improved EFS (P = 0.05) in all patients, and particularly those at high risk. HIV-positive patients treated with CODOX-M/IVAC tolerated chemotherapy well with similar rates of myelosuppression and infectious complications as HIV-negative patients. CONCLUSIONS The current nonrandomized retrospective study suggested that intensive chemotherapy with CODOX-M/IVAC is feasible and well tolerated in HIV-positive adults with BL. In the post-HAART era, intensive chemotherapy such as CODOX-M/IVAC may be appropriate in all adult patients with BL, and especially those with poor prognostic factors, regardless of HIV status. Cancer 2003;98:1196–205. © 2003 American Cancer Society. DOI 10.1002/cncr.11628
Paternity exclusion in six captive groups of rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta)

Five genetic markers were employed to attempt to identify the fathers of 135 Macaca mulatta offspring living in large outdoor field cages. Family studies of two of these markers to confirm mode of inheritance of phenotypes had not heretofore been reported. Of the 284 exclusions required to identify the fathers of all 135 monkeys, 198 (or 70 percent) were possible using only these five genetic polymorphisms. For 58 (or 43 percent) of these 135 offspring the father was identified. These data were applied to estimate the association between dominance rank of fathers and reproductive success. Fertility of first- and second-ranking fathers was judged to be about twice as high as that of third- and fourth-ranking fathers.
Energy reserve levels in edematous mouse brain.

Abstract Six hours after cold lesions were made in cerebral cortex of mice, edema was present in the lesion and in other tissue from both cerebral hemispheres. Tissue samples from the cortical lesion had reduced levels of ATP and P-creatine, but glucose and lactate were increased. This chemical evidence of tissue ischemia in the edematous cold lesion was not present in edematous tissue outside of the infarct. In edematous subcortical tissue the levels of ATP and P-creatine were increased and lactate was not changed. Glycogen concentration was increased in cortical tissue contralateral to the lesion, and glucose and glycogen levels were both increased in subcortical tissue ipsilateral to the cold lesion.
Patterning of embryonic blood vessels

Morphometric methods were developed to characterize the geometry of vascular patterns in avian and murine embryos. By using these methods, we found that networks of blood vessels formed during vasculogenesis share similar geometric properties (i.e., mean blood vessel diameters and avascular space diameters) regardless of developmental stage, location, or species in which they form. We also found that endothelial cell density within a unit area of an embryonic vasculature could be used to accurately distinguish between a small diameter, capillary-like vascular network (low endothelial cell density) and a large diameter, presinusoidal network (high endothelial cell density). Furthermore, we show that endothelial cell size remains constant in small and large diameter vessels, indicating that increased endothelial cell size is not the basis for diversity in vessel diameter. These observations serve as a foundation for future studies seeking to evaluate the effects of agents or genetic mutations on aspects of vasculogenesis. Developmental Dynamics 228:21–29, 2003. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Evaluation of Tribocharged Electrostatic Beneficiation of Lunar Simulant in Lunar Gravity

The lunar regolith has high concentrations of aluminum, silicon, calcium, iron, sodium, and titanium oxides. Liberation of these metals would provide necessary materials for structural and building material fabrication, spare part, machine and tool production, and construction and site preparation in-situ on the moon or other extraterrestrial body (Rao et al 1979). Ilmenite (FeTi03) is a mineral of interest on the moon as a source of iron, titanium, and oxygen (Cameron 1992, Zhao and Shadman 1993) and therefore enrichment of this mineral in the feedstock before processing would be a considerable advantage in reducing energy requirements to process regolith. Not only for construction materials, but shipping oxygen and water from earth is weight prohibitive, and so investigations into the potential production of oxygen from the oxides of lunar regolith are a major research initiative by NASA (Sibille et al. 2009, Moscatello et al. 2009). In this paper, the results of electrostatic beneficiation of two sets of lunar simulants on two different reduced gravity flight series are presented.
Oddity and specific searching image more important than conspicuousness in prey selection.

IN an earlier report1 I presented results from a pilot experiment which suggested that conspicuousness of prey was the most important determinant in prey selection. I now have results from 1,600 laboratory experiments performed with two species of hawks in rigorous experimental conditions, which suggest that oddity and the specific searching image are more important. Many observations and experimental results fit well into the generalization that predators have a tendency to select odd prey, animals that differ in some way from most prey2,3, although unequivocal evidence is lacking. Predators also show a tendency to continue to select a given type of prey, even though other types may be as readily, or even more easily available, a phenomenon that L. Tinbergen4 has termed the “specific searching image”. My experiments are a simultaneous test of three factors which influence prey selection: conspicuousness, oddity, and the specific searching image.
Relativistic corrections to the binding energy of Ps

Abstract Relativistic corrections to the nonrelativistic binding energy of Ps − , calculated using a Hylleraas-type wave function having up to 615 terms, have been calculated by using the Breit interaction reduced to the large components. The nonrelativistic total energy is lowered by 1.35×10 −5 R μ . We suggest that the binding energy of Ps − be measured by experiments similar to that for H − .
Measurement of J/ψ production in proton-proton collisions by the PHENIX experiment

The PHENIX experiment at the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider has measured J/ψ production in proton-proton collisions at $\sqrt{s}$ = 200 GeV using data from the 2001–2002 collider run. Distributions of rapidity and transverse momentum are presented and compared with theoretical predictions. The total cross section and mean p T are calculated and compared to fixed-target results. The total J/ψ cross section is 4.0 ± 0.6(stat) ± 0.6(sys) ± 0.4(abs) μb. The mean p T is 1.80 ± 0.23(stat) ± 0.16(sys) GeV/c. PACS: 25.75.Dw Particle and resonance production
The ethics of using transgenic non-human primates to study what makes us human

A flood of comparative genomic data is resulting in the identification of human lineage-specific (HLS) sequences. As apes are our closest evolutionary relatives, transgenic introduction of HLS sequences into these species has the greatest potential to produce 'humanized' phenotypes and also to illuminate the functions of these sequences. We argue that such transgenic apes would also be more likely than other species to experience harm from such research, which renders such studies ethically unacceptable in apes and justifies regulatory barriers between these species and other non-human primates for HLS transgenic research.