cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Photodynamic therapy for choroidal metastasis from carcinoid tumor

Abstract Purpose To determine the efficacy of photodynamic therapy for the treatment of a choroidal metastasis unresponsive to chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Design Interventional case report. Methods Photodynamic therapy with verteporfin was performed. Visual acuity, local tumor control, and complications were assessed. Results A 72-year-old woman was diagnosed with bilateral, biopsy-proven choroidal metastasis from a pulmonary carcinoid tumor that was resistant to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The tumor in the left eye caused a retinal detachment and vision loss to light perception. The smaller lesion in the right eye progressively enlarged toward the fovea despite therapy and was treated with photodynamic therapy with verteporfin. Within 2 months, the exudative detachment resolved, the visual acuity returned to baseline, and the tumor volume decreased by 50%. Conclusion Photodynamic therapy may be an effective treatment option for selected patients with choroidal metastasis.
Effects of age and 1,4,6-androsta-triene-3,17-dione on activities of hCG-induced 19-hydroxylase and aromatase of rat testes

Abstract The testicular aromatase activity was significantly increased by administration of hCG to 18-day old rats, but not increased in 29-day old rats. 1,4,6-Androstatriene-3,17-dione did not inhibit the in vitro conversion of testosterone to 19-hydroxytestosterone by the testicular cell-free homogenates of the hCG-treated 18-day old rats, but strongly suppressed production of estrogen from 19-hydroxyandro-stenedione. On the other hand, the 19-hydroxylase activity of 18-day old rats stimulated by hCG was reduced to about 50% of the control value by SKF-525A, SU-4,885, SU-8,000 and SU-9,055 at their concentration of 10 −4 M. From our results, it is postulated that there are two distinct steps in the process of aromatization of testosterone, the one, the primary 19-hydroxylation which is inhibited by SK.F-525A and SU-compounds, but not by 1,4,6-androstatriene-3,17-dione, and the other, aromatization of 19-hydroxylated androgen which is inhibited by both 1,4,6-androstatriene-3,17-dione and non-steroidal inhibitors.
Balancing prostanoid activity in the human vascular system

The imbalance theory proposes that arterial thrombosis is dependent on a ratio or balance between the cyclooxygenase (COX)-1-dependent generation of thromboxane in platelets and the COX-2-dependent generation of prostacyclin in the endothelium. Accordingly, by reducing endothelium-derived prostacyclin levels, selective COX-2 inhibitors would increase susceptibility to vasoconstriction, platelet activation and atherothrombosis. This imbalance theory has been frequently used to legitimize the potential for increased cardiovascular risk associated with the use of these agents. Surprisingly, the imbalance theory is based not on human vascular biology but on the analysis of urinary prostacyclin metabolites. In this review, I discuss the theory in the context of direct studies of human vascular biology, which indicate that the imbalance theory is based on incorrect assumptions and is not plausible.
Occupational Structure and Criminal Behavior: Prescription Violation by Retail Pharmacists

An increasing number of sociologists have become interested in the study of occupations, noticeably neglecting at the same time the criminal behavior which occurs within occupations.' On the other hand, sociologists concerned with the study of white collar crime have not made any systematic attempt to consider the social structure of occupations in their explanations of white collar crime.2 The purpose of this study is to demonstrate that an analysis of the occupation should be considered in the attempt to explain violations of laws and regulations which control occupational activities and that such an approach makes it possible to learn more about both the structure of the occupation and the criminal behavior which occurs within
Designing VDT Operator Training Programs for Preventing Work Related Musculoskeletal Disorders

A systems approach is essential in addressing work related musculoskeletal disorders associated with VDT work. One integral component in the systems methodology is that of designing, developing and implementing an effective VDT training program. This paper specifically focuses on the importance of a VDT training program, how the training should be comprehensive, and systematically evaluated. Elements of a successful ergonomie VDT training program are described and examples of two successful VDT training programs are given.
Density Functional Theory and Complete Basis Set Ab Initio Computational Study of Five-, Six-, Seven- and Eight-hydrogen Coordinated Carbon Cations

High level ab initio and density functional theory studies are performed on highly protonated methane species.
Triumphs and tribulations of ΛCDM, the double dark theory

ΛCDM has become the standard cosmological model because its predictions agree so well with observations of the cosmic microwave background and the large-scale structure of the universe. However ΛCDM has faced challenges on smaller scales. Some of these challenges, including the “angular momentum catastrophe” and the absence of density cusps in the centers of small galaxies, may be overcome with improvements in simulation resolution and feedback. Recent simulations appear to form realistic galaxies in agreement with observed scaling relations. Although dark matter halos start small and grow by accretion, the existence of a star-forming band of halo masses naturally explains why the most massive galaxies have the oldest stars, a phenomenon known as known as galactic “downsizing.” The discovery of many faint galaxies in the Local Group is consistent with ΛCDM predictions, as is the increasing evidence for substructure in galaxy dark matter halos from gravitational lensing flux anomalies and gaps in cold stellar streams. However, the “too big to fail” (TBTF) problem challenges ΛCDM. It arose from analysis of the Acquarius and Via Lactea very high-resolution ΛCDM simulations of dark matter halos like that of the Milky Way. Each simulated halo has ∼10 subhalos that were so massive and dense that they would be too big to fail to form lots of stars. The TBTF problem is that none of the observed satellite galaxies of the Milky Way or Andromeda have stars moving as fast as would be expected in these densest subhalos. This may indicate the need for a more complex theory of dark matter – or perhaps just better understanding of dark matter simulations and/or baryonic physics.
Effect of Polymer Deposition and Washing Medium on the Felting Shrinkage of Chlorinated Wool Fabrics

The felting shrinkage of chlorinated wool fabrics treated with a group of preformed polymers has been investigated. The results suggest that after polymer deposition on the fabric, interfiber bridges and transient adhesive junctions formed between the fibers prevent relative fiber movements when the fabric is subjected to bending deformations in a washing medium. In the case of Hercosett-treated fabrics the shrinkproofing mechanism seems to include the elimination of directional bias in the movement of fibers by fiber lubrication. This latter mechanism is probably prevalent in fabrics made from Hercosett-treated top. These results are supported by the frictional and mechanical behavior of the polymers. The effect of surfactants in the washing medium on felting shrinkage depends on their ionic nature. Anionic and nonionic surfactants seem to reduce shrinkage by interfiber repulsions and limited fiber lubrication. Although they are operating by the same mechanisms, wettability of the fibers seems to be a ke...
Periodic Gap-functions in superconductivity with strong coupling.

Abstract Oscillatory solutions of the “historical” gap equations with very strong (retarded, step-function and softened) interactions are obtained for all values of the oscillation period (in the energy variable). They bunch around metastable solutions that belong alternately to attractive and repulsive interactions.
Motoneuron number in the lumbar lateral motor column of larval and adult bullfrogs.

Motoneuron number in the lumbar lateral motor column of the bullfrog, Rana catesbeiana, was investigated through the course of premetamorphic development and in postmetamorphic frogs. Motoneurons were distinguished on the basis of histological characteristics into two classes, type L (less differentiated) and type M (more differentiated). The number of type L motoneurons on each side showed a precipitous decline between stages V and VI (6,300 to 2,500) and a slower rate of loss until stage XI (to 550). Type M motoneurons increased in number between stages V and VII (560 to 2,775) and declined precipitously between stages VII and VIII to a value similar to that of juvenile frogs (1,100). These changes in motoneuron number do not correspond to the formation of myotubes or to the appearance of contractile properties in hindlimb muscles. The development of myotubes in the hindlimb occurs only after total motoneuron number has declined by 35%. Similarly, hindlimb muscle contraction develops after the early decline in type L motoneuron number and is restricted to proximal thigh at the peak of type M motoneuron number. In postmetamorphic frogs, a weak (r = 0.44) but statistically significant correlation was found between type M motoneuron number and body length. In the largest frogs (greater than 15 cm body length), 1262 +/- 157 (mean +/- s.d.) motoneurons were present, whereas the smallest frogs (less than 5 cm body length) had 1099 +/- 98 motoneurons. These results are not consistent with previous findings that the variance of motoneuron number among small frogs is greater than that among larger frogs. The present results are thus inconsistent with explanations of size-related differences in motoneuron number that are based on selection of small frogs with greater number of motoneurons for survival. The increase in motoneuron number may be due to a slow addition of newly born motoneurons to the LMC or to the differentiation of existing motoneurons. The latter possibility is supported by the finding that the number of presumptive type L profiles is less in larger frogs.
Compatibilism, determinism, and the identity theory

Two issues are raised with regard to Ted Honderich's A Theory of Determinism. First, regarding the relation between a token identity theory of mental and physical events and Honderich's ‘psychoneural union theory’, it is suggested that a token identity theory would serve Honderich's purposes while securing a simpler ontology. Second, it is argued that there is a substantive philosophical issue dividing compatibilists and incompatibilists on the question of whether persons possess free will, contrary to Honderich's contention that the compatibilist and incompatibilist differ only in responsive attitude.
The intracellular amino acid pool of Candida utilis during growth in batch and continous flow cultures

Abstract 1. 1. The amino acid pool extracted from cells of Candida utilis , grown on simple chemically defined media by batch and chemostat methods, was investigated. 2. 2. The spectrum of the amino acids in the pool was significant as a register of the cell metabolism. 3. 3. The composition of the pool was found to be related to the medium, to the growth rate, and to the environmental conditions. 4. 4. The relationship of the pool to cell regulation is discussed.
The relationship of pretreatment family functioning to drinking behavior during follow-up by alcoholic patients.

The relationship of alcoholics″ perceptions of the pretreatment functioning of their families to drinking outcomes during an 18-month follow-up was examined. Family functioning was hypothesized to be predictive of drinking behavior, particularly in subjects with low assertion of autonomy scores. These individuals report greater dependency and attachment, and therefore might be more affected by the state of important relationships. The results indicated that with low autonomy male alcoholics, greater family dysfunction predicted significantly fewer days abstinent during Months 1–6 and 13–18 and more severe drinking episodes during the first year of the follow-up. In the high autonomy males, family dysfunction was unrelated to subsequent drinking behavior. In women, on the other hand, greater family dysfunction predicted more days abstinent in those high in autonomy and was unrelated to the drinking behavior of those low in autonomy. Implications for patient-treatment matching, differences between male and ...
A microcapsule self-regulating delivery system for insulin

The self-regulating insulin delivery systems previously developed in our laboratory utilized the affinity binding of succinyl-amidophenyl-glucopyranoside insulin (SAPG-insulin) to soluble, beadimmobilized or crosslinked concanavalin A (Con A). The systems were enclosed in polymer membranes for in vitro assessment. These devices exhibited long lag times for the dynamic exchange of SAPG-insulin and glucose. A new system was prepared with hydrophilic nylon microcapsules containing Con A and SAPG-insulin. Unbound SAPG-insulin permeation was the rate limiting step for diffusion from the microcapsules. Preliminary in vitro data demonstrated rapid diffusion of both glucose and SAPG-insulin across the microcapsule membrane with a short lag time for exchange. SAPG-insulin was released from a reservoir system (the microcapsules in a pouch membrane) with a quick response to changes in glucose concentration.
Superconducting parameters and size effects of aluminum films and foils

In this paper we present the experimental results and analysis of the critical-field determination of aluminum films and foils. We studied the thermodynamic parallel and perpendicular critical fields as a function of thickness and temperature. The measurement of the critical fields together with suitable theories allows the determination of the penetration depth $\ensuremath{\lambda}$, the coherence length $\ensuremath{\xi}$, and the surface-energy parameter $\ensuremath{\Delta}$. The thermodynamic transition of all films studied was of second order. Measurement in both magnetic field orientations offers a check on the consistency of the methods used to analyze the data. The value of the Ginzburg-Landau parameter $\ensuremath{\kappa}$ obtained from these measurements is six times larger than the value obtained from supercooling experiments. This phenomenon has been observed previously by other authors in different metals. The superconducting transition of all foil samples was of first order. In perpendicular fields the transition to the intermediate state was analyzed by means of an interpolation formula having the correct theoretical behavior in the limits of both large and small thicknesses. The value of the surface-energy parameter so obtained is in agreement with the supercooling result.
Suprathreshold Auditory Cortex Activation Visualized by Intrinsic Signal Optical Imaging

The suprathreshold tonotopic organization of rat and guinea pig auditory cortex was investigated using intrinsic signal optical imaging through a thinned skull. Optical imaging revealed that suprathreshold pure sine wave tone stimulation (25-80 dB) evoked activity over large cortical areas that were tonotopically organized. Three-dimensional surface plots of the activated areas revealed "patchy' auditory-evoked activity consisting of numerous local peaks and valleys building to a maximum. Subsequent detailed electrophysiological mapping in the same subjects confirmed the localization of auditory-evoked activity based on optical imaging, including responses to a test frequency at cortical loci more than 2 octaves away from the threshold-defined isofrequency contour. The success of this technique in visualizing auditory cortex functional organization at suprathreshold stimulus levels will allow for future investigations of auditory cortex frequency representation, including representational plasticity induced by a variety of experimental manipulations.
Numerical Prediction of Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow in Rectangular Offset-Fin Arrays

A computational study of laminar flow and heat transfer in the channels of a rectangular offset-fin heat exchanger is presented. Computations are carried out for the entrance region and continued till the flow becomes periodically fully developed due to the repetitive nature of the geometry. All the heat transfer surfaces are assumed to be at a uniform temperature. A parametric study is made for various values of the aspect ratio and the fin-length parameter. Results show that developing length is about 5-10 modules. Local results are presented to provide a good physical understanding of the flow and heat transfer phenomena. A comparison of the numerical results with the available experimental data is also presented.
Preparing Preservice Teachers to Use Technology: Issues and Strategies

I recognize the complexity of enabling future teachers to apply technology. Political and budgetary issues existing at individual teacher education institutions add to the complexity. This discussion is offered as a contribution to the ongoing dialogue among all concerned persons. Teacher educators, in addition to attending to state adopted proficiencies, must exchange ideas with each other, with students, with school teachers and administrators, and with members of the community. There is also need for related research that can guide the teacher education effort (see Robin, Price, Willis & Willis, 1996).
A radiochemical assay for glycolytic activity in dental plaque.

A radiochemical technique for the rapid and precise measurement of glucose utilization of fresh samples of dental plaque is described. The method appears to be a sensitive indicator of the actual glycolytic ability of an organized microbial plaque including activity in the Embden-Meyerhof pathway as well as heterolactic fermentation and the Entner-Doudoroff pathway. It was found that the glycolytic rate of plaque associated with periodontal pockets was significantly higher than that for plaque not so associated.
Influenza outbreak control practices and the effectiveness of interventions in long-term care facilities: a systematic review.

Background Evaluation of influenza control measures frequently focuses on the efficacy of chemoprophylaxis and vaccination, while the effectiveness of non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPI) receives less emphasis. While influenza control measures are frequently reported for individual outbreaks, there have been few efforts to characterize the real-world effectiveness of these interventions across outbreaks. Objectives To characterize influenza case and outbreak definitions and control measures reported by long-term care facilities (LTCFs) of elderly adults and estimate the reduction in influenza-like illness (ILI) attack rates due to chemoprophylaxis and NPI. Methods We conducted a literature search in PubMed including English-language studies reporting influenza outbreaks among elderly individuals in LTCFs. A Bayesian hierarchical logistic regression model estimated the effects of control measures on ILI attack rates. Results Of 654 articles identified in the literature review, 37 articles describing 60 influenza outbreaks met the inclusion criteria. Individuals in facilities where chemoprophylaxis was used were significantly less likely to develop influenza A or B than those in facilities with no interventions [odds ratio (OR) 0·48, 95% CI: 0·28, 0·84]. Considered by drug class, adamantanes significantly reduced infection risk (OR 0·22, 95% CI: 0·12, 0·42), while neuraminidase inhibitors did not show a significant effect. Although NPI showed no significant effect, the results suggest that personal protective equipment may produce modest protective effects. Conclusions Our results indicate pharmaceutical control measures have the clearest reported protective effect in LTCFs. Non-pharmaceutical approaches may be useful; however, most data were from observational studies and standardized reporting or well-conducted clinical trials of NPI are needed to more precisely measure these effects.
Controlling Chaotic Lasers

Over the past decade it has become clear that many different types of lasers exhibit chaotic fluctuations of intensity under a variety of operating conditions. These include exotic systems, such as the far infrared ammonia laser, as well as commonly used semiconductor lasers. Signatures of chaotic fluctuations in laser light and the comparison of experimental observations with predictions of numerical models will be reviewed. An important issue here is the development of measures that can separate noisy and deterministic components of dynamical behavior and provide information relevant for application of dynamical control techniques. While earlier work consisted of efforts to identify and classify chaotic behavior, the emphasis today is on the control of chaotic lasers, and possible applications.
Beliefs About Older Workers' Learning and Development Behavior in Relation to Beliefs About Malleability of Skills, Age‐Related Decline, and Control1

This study investigated beliefs about older workers' ability and inclination to develop career-relevant skills, concepts that have not been empirically examined previously in any depth. Two sets of distinct but conceptually related variables were examined in relation to these beliefs. First, participants' implicit theory of abilities (whether they are fixed or changeable) was investigated, and was not found to predict beliefs about older workers' ability or inclination to develop. Second, their beliefs about the age-related decline of learning-relevant abilities and the controllability of such decline were examined. Beliefs about the decline of such abilities significantly predicted beliefs about older workers' ability to develop and beliefs about their inclination to develop. A significant relationship was also found between beliefs about controllability of decline and beliefs about older workers' learning goal orientation. Implicit theories significantly predicted beliefs about controllability of decline. These results empirically link research on beliefs about age-related decline of abilities with the older worker stereotype literature. The results also link literature on beliefs about controllability of decline with literature on implicit theories of skill malleability.
Shopping behavior and retail merchandising strategies

Abstract This article examines consumer shopping behavior and retail assortments by presenting a model of consumer shopping behavior within a competitive retail market with partially overlapping assortments. It first analyzes the search for a single product and, later, looks at the joint search for several products. The analysis indicates that a high degree of cross shopping is to be expected and, for the retailer to build patronage, it would require very high levels of inventory. The article concludes with some implications for retailers' assortment strategies.
Effect of increased milking frequency in early lactation with or without recombinant bovine somatotropin.

Abstract Multiparous Holstein cows (n=300) were assigned to 1 of 2 milking frequency treatments at parturition. Cows were either milked 6 times (6×) or 3 times (3×) daily to determine effects on early lactation milk yields and subsequent lactation persistency with or without use of recombinant bST (rbST). Treatments included a control group milked 3× and 3 groups milked 6× for either the first 7, 14, or 21 days in milk (DIM). Those 4 groups of cows all received rbST starting at 63 DIM. The fifth treatment group was also milked 6× for the first 21 DIM but those cows received no rbST during the entire lactation. All cows returned to 3× milking after their respective treatment periods ended. Cows milked 3× tended to produce more milk (43.2 vs. 41.5 and 41.0±1.1kg/d) during the first 9 wk of lactation compared with cows milked 6× for 7 or 21 DIM, respectively. Group milk yields after wk 9 averaged 38.3±0.7kg/d and did not differ among various groups assigned to an increased milking frequency in early lactation. Percentages of milk fat (3.8±0.12%) and protein (2.9±0.06%) did not differ among treatments during the first 9 wk after calving. Early lactation milk yield (41.9±1.2kg/d) did not differ between the 2 groups of cows milked 6× for 21 DIM. However, cows subsequently administered rbST (at 63 DIM) produced more milk (38.8 vs. 34.2±0.9kg/d) from wk 10 to 44. The number of cows sent to the hospital during the 305-d trial for mastitis (97), digestive disorders (14), respiratory issues (9), lameness (22), or retained placenta (16), were not affected by treatments ( χ 2 =0.49). Under the conditions of this commercial dairy herd in Arizona, increasing milking frequency to 6 times daily for 7 to 21 d at the start of lactation conditions did not increase milk yield nor improve lactation persistency.
Restoring longleaf pine through silvopasture practices: an economic analysis

Abstract A modified Hartman model was developed to investigate the economic potential of silvopasture as a means of restoring longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) on private land. Specifically, the model was used to investigate the impact of payments to the landowner for sequestering carbon and the effect of lengthening the rotation to produce red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis) habitat. The results suggested that silvopasture is more profitable than either traditional ranching or traditional forestry. Further, it was found that, carbon payments increased the profitability, optimal rotation age and optimal tree density for both silvopasture and traditional forestry. In addition, extending the rotation to 60 years to produce red-cockaded woodpecker habitat is less costly with silvopasture than with traditional forestry. These results suggest that silvopasture may be an attractive land use option for landowners who desire to restore longleaf pine on their land.
The catalytic synthesis of hydrocarbons from H2CO mixtures over the group VIII metals: I. The specific activities and product distributions of supported metals

Abstract Specific activities have been determined in the synthesis of hydrocarbons from CO-H2 mixtures over the Group VIII metals. In the methanation reaction the relative activities of supported metals, based on the number of surface metal atoms, are significantly different than similar comparisons in older studies which did not correct for variations in metal surface area. The methanation reaction was fitted to a power rate law of the form r CH 4 = Ae −Em RT P H 2 X P CO Y over all the Group VIII metals except Os. In addition, accurate product distributions, determined under comparable conditions and at low conversions, are provided. The necessity of catalyst characterization, such as the use of selective chemisorption techniques, is clearly evident in this study.
No benefit of the doubt: Intergroup bias in understanding causal explanation

Conversational conventions predict that receivers weigh later information more heavily than earlier information because they presume that communicators add later information only when it is particularly relevant and important. Drawing on Pettigrew's observation of the ultimate attribution error, the present research predicted that intergroup bias could override this conversational convention when individuals received multiple explanations (one beneficial, one condemning) for acts committed by out-group members vs. in-group members. Specifically, subsequently presented mitigating explanations for negative acts should not temper impressions of out-group members, and subsequently presented crediting explanations for positive acts should not enhance impressions of out-group members. Results supported this pattern, and the discussion considers these findings in light of communication rules, and in-group/out-group definition.
An extremal result for sum-free sequences

Let a1 < a2 < … be a sequence of positive integers such that no ak is a sum of distinct other terms. Erdos conjectured that if a1 ≥ n, then Σ1ak < log 2 + ϵn, where, ϵn → 0 as n → ∞. This result, which is the best possible, is established in this paper.
Stochastic Methods for Flow in Porous Media: Coping with Uncertainties

DONGXIAO ZHANG. Academic Press, San Diego, CA. 2002. Hardcover, 350 pp. $89.95. ISBN: 0-12-779621-5. Hydrogeological variables of a groundwater system, for example, the hydraulic head and contaminant concentration, vary with space and time. The variability is due to spatial heterogeneities of
Cumene hydroperoxide effected hydroperoxidation by cytochrome P-450

9-Methylfluorene was found to be oxygenated to 9-hydroperoxy-9-methylfluorene and 9-hydroxy-9-methylfluorene by cytochrome P-450 in the presence of cumene hydroperoxide. Molecular oxygen is required and carbon monoxide is inhibitory. The reaction is inhibited by SKF-525A and metyrapone. Metyrapone and cumene hydroperoxide also retard the conversion of 9-hydroperoxy-9-methylfluorene to 9-hydroxy-9-methylfluorene. The reaction is different from hydroperoxide-supported oxygenation, since the cumene hydroperoxide appears to act as an effector of the enzyme rather than oxygen donor. It is suggested that substrates with stable radicals can be dioxygenated in this manner.
Characterization and peripheral blood biomarker assessment of anti-Jo-1 antibody-positive interstitial lung disease

Objective Using a combination of clinical, radiographic, functional, and serum protein biomarker assessments, this study was aimed at defining the prevalence and clinical characteristics of interstitial lung disease (ILD) in a large cohort of patients with anti–Jo-1 antibodies. Methods A review of clinical records, pulmonary function test results, and findings on imaging studies determined the existence of ILD in anti–Jo-1 antibody–positive individuals whose data were accumulated in the University of Pittsburgh Myositis Database from 1982 to 2007. Multiplex enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) for serum inflammation markers, cytokines, chemokines, and matrix metalloproteinases in different patient subgroups were performed to assess the serum proteins associated with anti–Jo-1 antibody–positive ILD. Results Among the 90 anti–Jo-1 antibody–positive individuals with sufficient clinical, radiographic, and/or pulmonary function data, 77 (86%) met the criteria for ILD. While computed tomography scans revealed a variety of patterns suggestive of underlying usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) or nonspecific interstitial pneumonia, a review of the histopathologic abnormalities in a subset of patients undergoing open lung biopsy or transplantation or whose lung tissue was obtained at autopsy (n = 22) demonstrated a preponderance of UIP and diffuse alveolar damage. Analysis by multiplex ELISA yielded statistically significant associations between anti–Jo-1 antibody–positive ILD and elevated serum levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), CXCL9, and CXCL10, which distinguished this disease entity from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and anti–signal recognition particle antibody–positive myositis. Recursive partitioning further demonstrated that combinations of these and other serum protein biomarkers can distinguish these disease subgroups at high levels of sensitivity and specificity. Conclusion In this large cohort of anti–Jo-1 antibody–positive individuals, the incidence of ILD approached 90%. Multiplex ELISA demonstrated disease-specific associations between anti–Jo-1 antibody–positive ILD and serum levels of CRP as well as the interferon-γ–inducible chemokines CXCL9 and CXCL10, highlighting the potential of this approach to define biologically active molecules contributing to the pathogenesis of myositis-associated ILD.
DAMAGE ANALYSIS AND ELASTO-PLASTIC BEHAVIOR OF METAL MATRIX COMPOSITES USING THE FINITE ELEMENT METHOD

Abstract Damage and elasto-plastic analysis is of particular importance to metal matrix composites since the onset of damage and plastic yielding begins very early in the loading process as compared to the composites ultimate strength. Voyiadjis and Park [Anisotropic damage of fiber reinforced MMC using an overall damage analysis. J. Engng Med., ASCE, 1995, 121(11), 1209–1217] proposed an overall anisotropic damage model which accounts for all types of damage as a single damage variable. A finite element analysis is presented here using the proposed theory for quantifying damage and predicting the failure loads. This is applied to two problems, the dog-bone shaped uniaxially loaded specimen and the center-cracked laminate composite plate. Finite element analysis results for uniaxial loading of laminate plates using the proposed model show good agreement with experiments.
Significance of Deep Sea drilling project sediment physical property data

Sediment disturbance associated with the Deep Sea Drilling Project coring and core‐handling program are discussed along with the effects of sample disturbance on some measurements of physical properties. Information was obtained from shopboard observations and testing on Leg 43 and shore‐based testing of several sediment samples. Disturbance results from (1) remolding of the particle structure during coring, and (2) swelling induced by stress release and thermal expansion in the presence of excess water. Remolding is most significant to depth of 50–100 m, whereas swelling effects increase with coring depth. As a result, the shipboard data are not rep‐sentative of in situ sediment properties. The tendency is for porosity to increase and for bulk density to decrease with increased swelling. Strength is significantly reduced for swelled samples with further reductions from remolding. All observations and data suggest a need for improved coring capabilities and an in situ testing program.
Analysis of recA mutants with altered SOS functions

Abstract The Escherichia coli RecA protein has at least three roles in SOS mutagenesis: (1) derepression of the SOS regulon by mediating LexA cleavage; (2) activation of the UmuD mutagenesis protein by mediating its cleavage; and (3) targeting the Umu-like mutagenesis proteins to DNA. Using a combined approach of molecular and physiological assays, it is now possible to determine which of the three defined steps has been altered in any recA mutant. In this study, we have focussed on the ability of six particular recA mutants (recA85, recA430, recA432, recA433, recA435 and recA730) to perform these functions. Phenotypically, recA85 and recA730 were similar in that in lexA+ and lexA(Def) backgrounds, they exhibited constitutive coprotease activity towards the UmuD mutagenesis protein. Somewhat surprisingly, in a lexA(Ind−) background, UmuD cleavage was damage inducible, suggesting that the repressed level of the RecA∗ protein cannot spontaneously achieve a fully activated state. Although isolated in separate laboratories, the nucleotide sequence of the recA85 and recA730 mutants revealed that they were identical, with both alleles possessing a Glu38 → Lys change in the mutant protein. The recA430, recA433 and recA435 mutants were found to be defective for both λ mutagenesis and UmuD cleavage. λ mutagenesis was fully restored, however, to the recA433 and recA435 strains by a low copy plasmid expressing the mutagenically active UmuD′ protein. In contrast, λ mutagenesis was only partially restored to a recA430 strain by a high copy UmuD′ plasmid, suggesting that RecA430 may also be additionally defective in targeting the Umu proteins to DNA. Sequence analysis of the recA433 and recA435 alleles revealed identical substitutions resulting in Arg243 → His. The recA432 mutation had a complex phenotype in that its coprotease activity towards UmuD depended upon the lexA background: inducible in lexA+ strains, inefficient in lexA(Ind−) cells and constitutive in a lexA(Def) background. The recA432 mutant was found to carry a Pro119 → Ser substitution, a residue believed to be at the RecA subunit interface; thus this complex phenotype may result from alterations in the assembly of RecA multimers.
Improved estimation of the calcium content of total digestive secretions.

Because endogenous fecal calcium (EFC) excretion plays a larger role in the calcium economy of adults than does actual calcium intake, and because at typical absorption efficiencies EFC is largely determined by endogenous entry of calcium into the gut [total intestinal calcium (TIC)], it is important to be able to quantify TIC when studying the effect of nutrients, drugs, and disease on body calcium handling. Measured values for EFC, derived from 553 balance studies in middle-aged women (mean age, 48.8 yr), were pooled with 76 values obtained from premenarcheal girls (mean age, 11.2 yr) after adjusting for differences in body size. The aggregate sample provided values for calcium absorption efficiencies spanning a range from under 10% to over 90%. EFC is known to be inversely related to fractional calcium absorption (AbsFx), and the broad range of absorption efficiencies provided by the composite sample allowed derivation of reasonably precise estimates of EFC at 0% and 100% absorption. These were 0.8067 ...
Detection of static rotor eccentricity in permanent magnet synchronous drives using field reconstruction method

Permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) drives are increasingly considered in vehicular applications due to relatively high power density, negligible rotor losses, high efficiency, ease of control, and maintenance. In this paper a new method of fault detection and treatment for 5-phase PMSM under static rotor eccentricity has been introduced. As the optimum performance is of great importance in vehicular applications the excitation of stator phases has been modified to attain the maximum output torque per input phase current in the event of rotor eccentricity. Field reconstruction method has been used in conjunction with optimization methods to detect the fault and find the appropriate excitation.
Utilization of an agility assessment module in analysis and optimization of preliminary fighter configuration

A study has been conducted to develop and to analyze a FORTRAN computer code for performing agility analysis on fighter aircraft configurations. This program is one of the modules of the NASA Ames ACSYNT (AirCraft SYNThesis) design code. The background of the agility research in the aircraft industry and a survey of a few agility metrics are discussed. The methodology, techniques, and models developed for the code are presented. The validity of the existing code was evaluated by comparing with existing flight test data. A FORTRAN program was developed for a specific metric, PM (Pointing Margin), as part of the agility module. Example trade studies using the agility module along with ACSYNT were conducted using a McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet aircraft model. Tile sensitivity of thrust loading, wing loading, and thrust vectoring on agility criteria were investigated. The module can compare the agility potential between different configurations and has capability to optimize agility performance in the preliminary design process. This research provides a new and useful design tool for analyzing fighter performance during air combat engagements in the preliminary design.
Primary structure of PDC-109, a major protein constituent of bovine seminal plasma

The two major protein components of bovine seminal plasma, PDC-109 and BSP I, have been purified by gel filtration, partition chromatography and reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography from an 86% ethanol precipitate of bovine seminal plasma ejaculate. The complete 109-residue amino acid sequence of PDC-109 has been established by automated Edman degradation of the intact peptide as well as its proteolytic digestion and cyanogen bromide cleavage fragments. The 12,774 dalton structure has two structurally similar domains of 38 and 41 amino acids, each containing two disulfide bonds.
UPR-inducible miRNAs contribute to stressful situations

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) senses both extracellular and intracellular stresses that can disrupt its ability to facilitate the maturation of proteins destined for secretory pathways. The accumulation of misfolded proteins within the ER triggers an adaptive signaling pathway coined the unfolded protein response (UPR). UPR activation contributes to cell adaptation by reducing the rate of protein translation while increasing the synthesis of chaperones. Although we have gained considerable insight into the mechanisms that regulate gene expression and certain aspects of protein translation, the contribution of miRNAs to UPR-dependent activities has only recently been investigated. Here we highlight recent insights into the contribution of miRNAs to UPR-dependent cellular adaptive responses.
The Washington Psychosocial Seizure Inventory (WPSI): psychometric evaluation and future applications

The Washington Psychosocial Seizure Inventory (WPSI) clinical scales were developed via an empirical item selection approach and have been used widely to measure aspects of psychosocial functioning of patients with epilepsy. However, these empirically derived clinical scales have not been assessed psychometrically using a modern item response theory-based model. The goals of this study were to: (1) evaluate how items in each clinical scale performed in such a way as to represent the underlying constructs being measured; and (2) derive a shorter version while maintaining measurement precision. WPSI item response data from 145 adults with epilepsy collected for an evaluation study of an intervention to pact negative attributional style in epilepsy were used. The dichotomous Rasch model suitable for the true-false response choices was used to analyse each clinical scale separately. Most items within each scale fit the measurement model well, with very few exceptions. All items, therefore, were retained. A method, based on computerised adaptive testing (CAT), is offered for shortening the WPSI using a psychosocial outcomes item bank derived from the study. Individuals' specific levels of functioning are used to derive measures of their psychosocial functioning with a minimum number of items.
Hypochondriasis in the Elderly: A Reaction to Social Stress*

Hypochondriasis in the elderly is often a preventable or reversible syndrome. It can become chronic if the patient finds no relief from social stress or becomes dependent upon medical services as a source of support. When this is recognized, psychotherapeutic intervention is necessary. Although no socioeconomic group is exempt, hypochondriasis in the elderly occurs more often among the lower social classes. Its higher prevalence in this group is attributable to the frequency and severity of social stress and the loss of alternative social opportunities. If psychotherapeutic intervention is necessary, the elderly hypochondriac patient should be helped to recognize social stress as a major source of the problem and to develop a realistic method of coping with it. Apparently the precipitating factors are often in the socioeconomic sphere; hence, social planners should be aware of this fact if the demands on the health care system are to be reduced.
Dynamic analysis of three-dimensional helical geared rotor system with geometric eccentricity

A dynamic model of a multi-shaft helical geared rotor system is presented. Rotating shafts of the system are modeled as Timoshenko beams. A general three-dimensional dynamic model of helical gear pairs with geometric eccentricity is developed for the gear mesh and bearing flexibility is included in the model as well. The transmission error and gear geometric eccentricity are simulated as excitations. Eigenvalue solution and the modal summation technique are used to predict the natural frequencies and forced responses of the system. Then two geared rotor system models are presented for validation of the gear dynamic model. It is demonstrated that the gear mesh model is effective for general geared rotor systems, spur and helical gears, one-stage and multi-stage systems. Finally, forced responses of an example system are analyzed to demonstrate the influences of the helical gear geometric eccentricity and the coupling between gear geometric eccentricity and rotor mass unbalance.
MRI and histological analysis of beta-amyloid plaques in both human Alzheimer's disease and APP/PS1 transgenic mice.

Purpose To investigate the relationship between MR image contrast associated with Aβ plaques and their histology and compare the histo-pathological basis of image contrast and the relaxation mechanism associated with Aβ plaques in human Alzheimer’s disease and transgenic APP/PS1 mouse tissues.
Arthroscopic Management of Avascular Necrosis

Avascular necrosis of the hip occurs as blood flow to the femoral head becomes compromised, leading to necrosis of osteocytes, localized resorption of bone, and collapse of the unsupported articular cartilage. Historically, the management of avascular necrosis has included bisphosphonates, core decompression, vascularized or nonvascularized bone grafting, osteotomy, joint resurfacing, and total hip arthroplasty for end stage disease. The use of hip arthroscopy has opened new diagnostic and therapeutic avenues to surgeons that were not previously available for the treatment of avascular necrosis in the hip. Hip arthroscopy offers a direct, minimally invasive technique to accurately classify patients with later-stage disease who may or may not benefit from free vascularized fibula grafts, core decompression with or without grafting, autologous bone marrow transplantation, nonvascularized bone grafting, or other resurfacing procedures. Hip arthroscopy can help improve overall diagnostic accuracy and serve as a direct means of treatment or adjunct to the application of more traditional techniques in avascular necrosis management.
Sex differences in blood protein patterns: A computer-assisted electrophoretic analysis of mid-molecular weight range proteins of human serum

We have studied the sexual dimorphism of human serum proteins between the ranges of approximately 60,000 and 150,000 daltons using computerized imaging and densitometry. Methodology is presented, based on the TEXAC computer system for the detection, segmentation and integration of protein bands. The results are discussed in terms of potential future applications in computerized medical diagnosis.
Thrombogenic microvesicles and white matter hyperintensities in postmenopausal women

Objective: To determine the association of conventional cardiovascular risk factors, markers of platelet activation, and thrombogenic blood-borne microvesicles with white matter hyperintensity (WMH) load and progression in recently menopausal women. Methods: Women (n = 95) enrolled in the Mayo Clinic Kronos Early Estrogen Prevention Study underwent MRI at baseline and at 18, 36, and 48 months after randomization to hormone treatments. Conventional cardiovascular risk factors, carotid intima-medial thickness, coronary arterial calcification, plasma lipids, markers of platelet activation, and thrombogenic microvesicles were measured at baseline. WMH volumes were calculated using a semiautomated segmentation algorithm based on fluid-attenuated inversion recovery MRI. Correlations of those parameters with baseline WMH and longitudinal change in WMH were adjusted for age, months past menopause, and APOE e4 status in linear regression analysis. Results: At baseline, WMH were present in all women. The WMH to white matter volume fraction at baseline was 0.88% (0.69%, 1.16%). WMH volume increased by 122.1 mm 3 (95% confidence interval: −164.3, 539.5) at 36 months ( p = 0.003) and 155.4 mm 3 (95% confidence interval: −92.13, 599.4) at 48 months ( p p = 0.03). Conclusion: Associations of platelet-derived, thrombogenic microvesicles at baseline and increases in WMH suggest that in vivo platelet activation may contribute to a cascade of events leading to development of WMH in recently menopausal women.