cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Twinning effects in the orthorhombic form of a Ba2YCu3O7−x superconductor

Abstract Twinning effects in a Ba 2 YCu 3 O 7− x superconductor (orthorhombic form) have been analyzed by X-ray diffraction techniques. Regions of reciprocal space surrounding the (220), the (2 2 0) , the (400), and the (040) reflections for each of three twinned crystals were mapped on a single crystal diffractometer. Various modes of twinning were modeled by computer and the results were compared to the observed intensity distribution in the proximity of these reflections. A twinning mode based on a main and a smaller satellite crystal, each contining a mirror along h h 0 , with the satellite crystal rotated 90° relative to the main crystal gave the best agreement to the observed data.
Fighting With Siblings and With Peers Among Urban High School Students

Understanding the determinants of fighting is important for prevention efforts. Unfortunately, there is little research on how sibling fighting is related to peer fighting. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the association between sibling fighting and peer fighting. Data are from the Boston Youth Survey 2008, a school-based sample of youth in Boston, MA. To estimate the association between sibling fighting and peer fighting, we ran four multivariate regression models and estimated adjusted prevalence ratios and 95% confidence intervals. We fit generalized estimating equation models to account for the fact that students were clustered within schools. Controlling for school clustering, race/ethnicity, sex, school failure, substance use, and caregiver aggression, youth who fought with siblings were 2.49 times more likely to have reported fighting with peers. To the extent that we can confirm that sibling violence is associated with aggressive behavior, we should incorporate it into violence prevention programming.
A cannula of variable depth for chemical stimulation of the brain.

Abstract A cannula is described with the capability to treat various brain sites below the original site, and to return repeatedly to precisely the same brain region. This allows direct application of crystalline or liquid drugs into a series of fixed brain sites. With this cannula, maps can be made of drug-induced changes in the brain, and sites of optional activity can be localized.
Results of the ultra-long duration balloon flight support system development

Abstract NASA/Wallops Flight Facility (WFF) developed an Ultra-Long Duration Balloon (ULDB) balloon support system that was flown on a balloon test flight at Fort Sumner, NM in May of 2001. The objectives were to develop a flight support system that would meet the generic requirements of supporting ULDB missions for up to 100 days. The flight system consists of hardware and software elements including RF communications, power system, attitude control, command and data handling, thermal control and mechanical structures. An overview of the flight support systems is presented along with the results from the balloon test flight. A key result of this test flight was the proven capability to transmit 150 kbps through a newly developed TDRSS high gain antenna. In addition, the balloon flight support system is currently being reconfigured to support the Cosmic Ray Energetics and Mass (CREAM) mission scheduled for launch out of Antarctica in December 2003. The technical capabilities and performance of the flight support system has been analyzed in light of limited resources to support the CREAM mission. A discussion of the technical trade-offs that has resulted in a baseline design to meet the CREAM mission requirements will be presented.
Imaging of penile neoplasm

Penile malignancies are rare, accounting for less than 1% of all male malignancy in the United States. The diagnosis can be very devastating psychologically to patients and often presents a challenge for physicians to accurately diagnose and treat these neoplasms. Clinical examination is known to have certain limitations and cross-sectional imaging techniques are increasingly utilized. Knowledge in imaging characteristics of the normal anatomy of the penis, vascular supply, lymphatic drainage, and pathology of penile malignancy is essential for an accurate staging. In this article, normal anatomy of the penis is briefly discussed and is followed by a review of multiple imaging approaches for characterization of the primary tumor and nodal staging.
Some results for approximate strain and rotation tensor formulations in geometrically non-linear Reissner Mindlin plate theory

Abstract Finite element deflection and stress results are presented for four flat plate configurations and are computed using kinematically approximate (rotation tensor, strain tensor or both) non-linear Reissner–Mindlin plate models. The finite element model is based on a mixed variational principle and has both displacement and force field variables. High order interpolation of the field variables is possible through p-type discretization. Results for some of the higher order approximate models are given for what appears to be the first time. It is found that for the class of example problems examined, exact strain tensor but approximate rotation tensor theories can significantly improve the solution over approximate strain tensor models such as the von Karman and moderate rotation models when moderate deflections/rotations are present. However, for each of the problems examined (with the exception of a postbuckling problem) the von Karman and moderate rotation model results compared favorably with the higher order models for deflection magnitudes which could be reasonably expected in typical aeroelastic configurations.
Origin and evolution of the West Philippine Basin: a new interpretation

Abstract Combined analyses of the magnetic lineations and seafloor structures of the West Philippine Basin show that it was formed by spreading from the Central Basin Spreading Center in two distinctly different spreading phases, before and after subduction was initiated along the Palau-Kyushu trend at ~ 45 Ma B.P. These episodes are recognized by differences in the strike of the magnetic lineations, spreading rates, density and strike of fracture zones, and basement relief. From 60-45 Ma B.P. spreading was NE-SW, relative to present orientations, at a half-rate of 44 mm/a. At about 45 Ma B.P. the spreading direction changed to a more N-S direction with a reconfiguration of the Central Basin Spreading Center into numerous, short E-W segments offset by closely spaced N-S transform faults. Spreading slowed to a half-rate of 18 mm/a, and ceased at 35 Ma B.P. Thus, the West Philippine Basin originated at 45 Ma B.P. by the trapping of normal ocean crust west of the initial subduction along the Palau-Kyushu trend. The 45-35 Ma B.P. period represents the dying phase of spreading on the Central Basin Spreading Center following isolation of the West Philippine Basin from the plate driving forces of the Pacific.
Reduced muscle fiber force production and disrupted myofibril architecture in patients with chronic rotator cuff tears.

Background A persistent atrophy of muscle fibers and an accumulation of fat, collectively referred to as fatty degeneration, commonly occur in patients with chronic rotator cuff tears. The etiology of fatty degeneration and function of the residual rotator cuff musculature have not been well characterized in humans. We hypothesized that muscles from patients with chronic rotator cuff tears have reduced muscle fiber force production, disordered myofibrils, and an accumulation of fat vacuoles. Methods The contractility of muscle fibers from biopsy specimens of supraspinatus muscles of 13 patients with chronic full-thickness posterosuperior rotator cuff tears was measured and compared with data from healthy vastus lateralis muscle fibers. Correlations between muscle fiber contractility, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) scores, and tear size were analyzed. Histology and electron microscopy were also performed. Results Torn supraspinatus muscles had a 30% reduction in maximum isometric force production and a 29% reduction in normalized force compared with controls. Normalized supraspinatus fiber force positively correlated with ASES score and negatively correlated with tear size. Disordered sarcomeres were noted, along with an accumulation of lipid-laden macrophages in the extracellular matrix surrounding supraspinatus muscle fibers. Conclusions Patients with chronic supraspinatus tears have significant reductions in muscle fiber force production. Force production also correlates with ASES scores and tear size. The structural and functional muscle dysfunction of the residual muscle fibers is independent of the additional area taken up by fibrotic tissue. This work may help establish future therapies to restore muscle function after the repair of chronically torn rotator cuff muscles.
An Unstructured Discontinuous Finite Element Method for Three-Dimensional Radiative Transfer in Participating Media

This paper presents a discontinuous finite element (or discontinuous Galerkin) computational methodology for the numerical solution of internal thermal radiation problems in three-dimensional geometries using unstructured meshes. Mathematical formulation and numerical details using the discontinuous Galerkin method for internal radiation heat transfer calculations are given. Computational procedures are presented. Numerical examples are given for radiative transfer in 3-D geometries filled with a non-scattering or scattering medium. The computed results are given and are compared well with analytical solutions whenever available or the data reported in references.Copyright © 2004 by ASME
Li Hung-chang and Modern Enterprise The China Merchants' Company, 1872-1885

The role of Li Hung-chang (1823-1901) in the development of modern enterprises in late Ch'ing China has been one of the most important controversies in the study of modern Chinese history. Some sch...
Cultural characteristics of Rhizopogon spp. associated with Pinus radiata seedlings

Abstract Seven cultural types of Rhizopogon (from at least two species, R. luteolus Fr. and R. rubescens Tul.) were isolated from sporocarps, and/or mycorrhizas of Pinus radiata D. Don seedlings and their cultural characteristics descnbed. The factors that determine the distribution of the different types in 14 nurseries in the North Island of New Zealand are not clear.
Raman Side-Scatter Instability in Nonuniform Plasma

For the Raman instability in nonuniform plasma, the linear space-time asymptotic response consists of two parts, convectively growing wave packets and temporally growing localized side-scattered eigenmodes. Eigenmodes dominate the response only after the growth of the side-scattered wave packets is terminated by refraction from their resonance zones. A finite pump-beam diameter typically ends all growth before eigenmodes appear, except near quarter-critical density. These considerations may reconcile simulations, previous theories, and experiments.
The simple analytics of greenhouse gas emission intensity reduction targets

The Bush Administration followed its March 2001 withdrawal from the Kyoto Protocol by a February 14, 2002 proposal for unilateral action to reduce the intensity of US greenhouse gas emissions, with intensity defined as emissions per unit of GDP. The idea is to focus on the rate of decline of the emissions intensity of the economy, rather than the total amount of emissions (though the two are obviously related). In this paper we examine the characteristics of a goal of a rate of decline in intensity. We present a simple model and show that in order to stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations, the rate of decline in intensity must equal the rate of growth of GDP. Additionally, we show that cost uncertainty can be reduced through the use of intensity reduction targets.
Communicating the ocular and systemic complications of obesity to patients.

Background Obesity has become a growing worldwide epidemic that is associated with serious medical complications. Many clinicians and patients are aware of the systemic complications of obesity, but there are few providers and patients who are aware of the ocular manifestations of obesity. Methods A review of the current medical literature was performed. Ocular and systemic manifestations associated with obesity are described, and a methodology for educating the optometric patient is presented. Results There is significant morbidity and mortality associated with obesity, which is causing serious consequences to patients and an enormous economic strain on the health care system. Optometrists have a tremendous opportunity and obligation to educate their patients on the potential sight-threatening complications of obesity and encourage them to decrease their caloric intake and increase their physical activity to help alleviate this individual and collective burden. Conclusions Optometrists have a duty to educate and counsel their overweight and obese patients on the devastating ocular complications that could manifest as a result of obesity.
Cytomegalovirus and Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia in children with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

To ascertain the effect of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection on the course of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) in children with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), we reviewed the fharts of all children with AIDS who also had a lung biopsy specimen or a bronchoalveolar lavage specimen cultured for CMV at the time PCP was diagnosed. The data indicate that children with AIDS and PCP whose cultures are positive for CMV do not have a poorer prognosis during a first episode of PCP compared with children whose cultures are negative for CMV.
Diffusive channels for composite system scattering

Abstract A new set of coupled equations for nucleon-nucleus and nucleus-nucleus scattering is derived in which closely spaced and strongly coupled inelastic channels are treated by diffusive equations of the Fokker-Planck type, while the low-lying and well-separated channels are explicitly taken into account by the coupled channel method. The diffusive channel treatment is compared with the pseudostate approach. Several limiting cases for the diffusion channels are examined, and closed form solutions are obtained in some simple cases. Extensions and applications of the new set of equations are discussed.
The Effect of H-Bonding and Proton Transfer on the Voltammetry of 2,3,5,6-Tetramethyl-p-phenylenediamine in Acetonitrile. An Unexpectedly Complex Mechanism for a Simple Redox Couple

The voltammetry of 2,3,5,6-tetramethyl-p-phenylenediamine, H2PD, has been studied and compared to that of its isomer N,N,N′,N′-tetramethyl-p-phenylenediamine, Me2PD. Both undergo two reversible electron transfer processes in acetonitrile that nominally correspond to 1 e− oxidation to the radical cations, Me2PD+ and H2PD+, and a second 1 e− oxidation at more positive potentials to the quinonediimine dications, Me2PD2+ and H2PD2+. While the voltammetry of Me2PD agrees with this simple mechanism, that of H2PD does not. The second voltammetric wave is too small. UV−vis spectroelectrochemical experiments indicate that the second wave does correspond to oxidation of H2PD+ to H2PD2+ in solution. The fact that the second wave is not present at all at the lowest concentrations (5 μM), and that it increases at longer times and higher concentrations, indicates that H2PD+ is not the initial solution product of the first oxidation. A number of lines of evidence suggest instead that the initial product is a mixed valen...
Expansion of cavities in layered elastic system

Theoretical formulations to the problem of expansion of spherical and cylindrical cavities in a layered elastic system are presented. The medium surrounding the cavity is assumed to consist of several layers, and each is idealized as a linear elastic solid. The solutions are expressed in matrix forms and can be obtained using a programmable calculator. The developed solutions are of some importance in geomechanics. The spherical cavity solution can be used to compute the settlement of single axially loaded piles. The predicted settlement using the analysis outlined herein agrees reasonably well with one case of field measurements. The cylindrical cavity solution can be used to manifest the effect of disturbed mass at the cavity wall on the stress–strain and deformation characteristics of the intact mass.
Occurrence of α-Amylase in the Axis of Germinating Peas

α-Amylase was found in the axis portion of ungerminated pea seeds (Pisum sativum var. Alaska). The occurrence of this enzyme was demonstrated with crude homogenates (also containing β-amylase) using three different methods: the hydrolysis of β-limit dextrin, the change in absorption spectra for the iodine-starch complex, and the increase in reducing materials relative to the decrease in starch. The first method was used to quantitate the changes in α-amylase activity during germination. The increase in total amylase activity (primarily β-amylase) paralleled germination; the accumulation of α-amylase activity was not initiated for an additional day. The increased α-amylase activity was related to epicotyl growth. Approximately half of this activity was found in the etiolated stem, the distribution being higher in growing than in nongrowing portions.
Probabilistic responses of base-isolated structures to El centro 1940 and Mexico city 1985 earthquakes

Abstract Stochastic earthquake responses of a base-isolated shear beam structure with several base isolation systems, including the laminated rubber bearing, the resilient-friction base isolator with and without sliding upper plate, and the EDF system, are studied. The recently developed stochastic models for the El Centro 1940 and the Mexico City 1985 earthquakes which preserve the nonstationary evolutions of amplitude and frequency content of ground accelerations are used as seismic excitations. The method of time-dependent equivalent linearization is utilized and the mean-square response statistics of the base-isolated shear beam structure are evaluated. Statistically estimated peak responses of the base-isolated structure are compared with the response spectra for the actual earthquake accelerograms. Comparisons of the results with those for the fixed-based structure show that the base isolation systems can, in general, be highly effective in reducing the mean square responses of the superstructure. However, they are sensitive to ground excitations with considerable energy at low frequencies.
Serum TA90 immune complex assay can predict outcome after resection of thick (≥4 mm) primary melanoma and sentinel lymphadenectomy

We hypothesized that the postoperative serum level of TA90-IC, an immune complex of a 90-kDa tumor-associated antigen and its antibody, might have a significant correlation with recurrence and survival in patients with thick primary melanomas. We used our prospective melanoma database to identify all patients who underwent wide local excision and sentinel lymphadenectomy for primary melanomas ≥4 mm and from whom sera had been collected and cryopreserved within 6 months after surgery. These sera were analyzed in a blinded fashion for TA90-IC status by using our double-determinant enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results were correlated with disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). Standard prognostic factors for melanoma were then compared with TA90-IC status for the prediction of DFS and OS. The sensitivity and specificity of the TA90-IC assay for predicting recurrence were 70% and 85%, respectively. Five-year DFS and OS rates were higher for the TA90-IC-negative group than the positive group. The differences in DFS and OS between the TA90-IC-negative and-positive groups were significant. At a median follow-up of 25 months, multivariate analysis identified postoperative TA90-IC status and sex as significant predictors of DFS. TA90-IC status was the only independent prognostic factor with multivariate analysis. TA90-IC status after resection of thick primary melanoma accurately predicts outcome. A positive postoperative TA90-IC level might affect a decision regarding adjuvant therapy, regardless of regional nodal status.
Electromigration of eutectic SnPb and SnAg3.8Cu0.7 flip chip solder bumps and under-bump metallization

The electromigration damage in flip chip solder bumps of eutectic SnPb and SnAg3.8Cu0.7 was studied after current stressing at 120 °C with 1.5 A. The diameter of the bumps was about 200 μm. The under-bump metallization (UBM) on the chip side was electroless Ni and on the board side was electroplated Cu. Surface marker motion was used to measure the atomic flux driven by electromigration and to calculate the effective charge number, Z*, of the solder. For eutectic SnPb, Z* is about 36–100 after 39.5 h of electromigration, but for SnAg3.8Cu0.7 the marker movement was too small to measure Z* even after 200 h of current stressing. While the effect of electromigration in SnAg3.8Cu0.7 is much smaller than that in eutectic SnPb, hillocks of intermetallic compounds at the anode have been observed in the former. An extensive growth of Ni–Cu–Sn intermetallic compounds in the matrix of both solder bumps was found. A localized dissolution of electroless Ni UBM was observed under current stressing, yet no dissolution ...
RIVAROXABAN FOR THE TREATMENT OF SYMPTOMATIC VENOUS THROMBOEMBOLISM: IS THERE A NEED FOR INITIAL HEPARIN TREATMENT? A SUBGROUP ANALYSIS OF THE EINSTEIN DVT AND PE STUDIES

In the EINSTEIN DVT and EINSTEIN PE studies, the majority of patients received heparins while venous thromboembolism (VTE) was confirmed and trial logistics were completed. In contrast to vitamin K antagonist (VKA) therapy, patients receiving rivaroxaban may not require initial heparin treatment.
Neighborhood Design and the Accessibility of the Elderly: An Empirical Analysis in Northern California

The low mobility of seniors may be due in part to a history of auto-oriented transportation and land use policy decisions. More recently, land use policies that make it possible to drive less show promise of effectiveness for the population as a whole. However, little attention has been paid to the implications of such policies for older people. Using data collected from Northern California in 2003, this study explores the ability of neighborhood design to preserve accessibility for the elderly by enabling a shift from driving to transit and walking, controlling for confounding factors. The results show that overall, older people drive less and use alternative modes more often than younger people. After controlling for attitudes and socio-demographics, neighborhood design has limited effects on driving and transit use, but enhancing accessibility tends to be a promising strategy for promoting walking trips. This enhanced accessibility has a much larger effect on the elderly than on the younger. Therefore, neighborhood design seems to be an important aspect of sustaining the accessibility of older people.
Molecular Epidemiologic Characterization of a Clustering HCV Infection Caused by Inappropriate Medical Care in Heyuan City of Guangdong, China

Background From November 2011 to January 2012, a number of clustering cases of HCV infection were reported in Zijin County, Heyuan City, Guangdong, China. Most patients in the clustering cases suspected that they could be infected due to inappropriate medical care in the clinic located at the Xiangshui road. However, the molecular epidemiology of the clustering cases remains unknown.
Current and future status of stem cell therapy in heart failure.

As heart transplantation and mechanical assist technology are inadequate solutions for the growing clinical epidemic of heart failure, myocardial regeneration has moved to the forefront. Multiple laboratories using a variety of cell types have demonstrated myocardial repair in different animal models. Translating these results into clinical practice through clinical trial research has thus far proved challenging. Amassing clinical evidence suggests that cell therapy is safe and offers a modest clinical benefit, but the long-term effect of such therapy as well as the overall impact on the natural progression of heart failure and, ultimately, survival are unknown. Furthermore, cost-benefit analysis of such therapy, which will likely become increasingly important as health care reform takes shape, has not been examined to any degree. Although scientific competition has driven this field with remarkable speed, it is also responsible for its fragmentation, with multiple avenues of pursuit happening in parallel. Consensus opinion is absent with respect to mechanism of action, effectiveness of cell type or delivery method, timing and dosing of cell therapy, adjunctive medication or therapies, and optimum cell type or combination of cell types. Nevertheless, in the arena of clinical medicine, ease of cell availability and cell delivery has proved paramount to cell type selection. The flourish of clinical trials investigating bone marrow–derived stem cells (BMSCs) delivered via direct intracoronary injection testifies to this opinion. The modest improvements in cardiac function demonstrated in trials to date will likely not have a significant clinical impact. We expect, however, that scientific competition will make continued contributions over the next decade that will propel the field forward, resulting in more pronounced clinical benefits in future trials. The authors further believe that the realization of true cardiac regeneration will require the use of autologous cells more capable of retention and differentiation to cardiac cell lineages. We believe that endogenous cardiac progenitor cells have superior regenerative potential to current cell types in this regard. The difficulty in accessing, isolating, and expanding these cells has resulted in less preclinical and clinical interest. Ongoing investigation will better define the capabilities of these cardiac progenitor cells.
Staff Performance Goals: What Gets Measured, Gets Done

In October 1999 I queried the discussion list, SERIALST: Serials in Libraries Discussion Forum, in an effort to learn what others were doing about measuring staff performance, specifically regardin...
Ultramicroporous metal-organic framework based on 9,10-anthracenedicarboxylate for selective gas adsorption.

An ultramicroporous metal−organic framework based on 9,10-anthracenedicarboxylate (PCN-13) has been synthesized and structurally characterized. The desolvated PCN-13 demonstrates selective adsorption of oxygen and hydrogen over nitrogen and carbon monoxide.
Transient expression of IL-2 receptor precedes the differentiation of immature thymocytes

The growth of mature T lymphocytes after activation by antigen is regulated by the binding and endocytosis of interleukin-2 (IL-2)1,2. In the thymus, ∼50% of adult thymocytes that carry neither the CD4 nor the CD8 antigen and day 14–15 fetal CD4–8– thymocytes express receptors for IL-2(IL-2R)3–5. The CD4–8– (double-negative) subpopulation of thymocytes contains the precursors of cells that can differentiate along an unknown pathway into thymocytes bearing either CD8 or CD4, with the characteristics of mature T lymphocytes6,7. The basis for IL-2R expression by double-negative thymocytes is unclear as they appear to lack a functional T-cell receptor/CD3 complex through which activation of peripheral T cells is mediated8. The argument for a role for IL-2 in thymocyte differentiation has also been complicated by conflicting reports on the inability9–12 or capability4,13 of double-negative thymocytes to respond to IL-2 in vitro. At present, both the nature of the stimuli within the thymic micro-environment which induce IL-2R expression and its relevance to thymocyte differentiation are not known. We show here that the IL-2R-bearing subset has a greater potential to differentiate into phenotypically mature T lymphocytes than do IL-2R-negative thymocytes. In addition, progeny of IL-2R-negative donor cells transiently express IL-2R in the thymuses of adoptive hosts before generating CD8 and/or CD4-positive thymocytes. These results identify the IL-2R-positive cells as a more differentiated double-negative thymocyte subset on the pathway to mature T lymphocytes.
Pattern-dependent correction of mask topography effects for alternating phase-shifting masks

Strategies for modifying both mask fabrication processes and design data for alternating phase-shifting masks to account for mask scattering phenomena are explored. Results were derived from the rigorous solution of Maxwell's equations using the EMFlex and TEMPEST programs for an etched-quartz fabrications process. By importing the resulting diffracted orders into VCIMAGE, full vector calculation of the aerial image from mask to wafer was obtained. From the rigorous mask simulations, the 0th and 1st diffracted orders were translated into an effective transmission and phase based on a thin-mask approximation. With this analysis technique, a 0.25 micrometers line-space grating for the baseline etched-quartz process (4X magnification) showed a transmission error of 7.2% and a phase error of 1.6 degree(s). In order to compensate for these errors, etch-back fabrication techniques, in which the quartz was recessed beneath the chrome, were evaluated to determine the extent to which the transmission and phase errors could be reduced. For the dual etch-back process typically in use today, a residual transmission error of approximately 0.5% could not be completely removed, even for etch-back depths greater than 200 nm. Correction of the phase errors was achieved by reducing the reactive-ion etch depth by 2-3 nm. Design manipulation, in which the 180 degree(s) opening was increased in size, required feature-dependent phase errors as large as 1 degree(s) were present.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Regulation of bone morphogenetic protein-2 expression in endothelial cells: role of nuclear factor-kappaB activation by tumor necrosis factor-alpha, H2O2, and high intravascular pressure

Background— Recent studies suggest that bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2), a transforming growth factor-β superfamily member cytokine, plays an important role both in vascular development and pathophysiological processes, including endothelial activation that is likely to contribute to the development of coronary atherosclerosis, yet the factors that regulate arterial expression of BMP-2 are completely unknown. We tested the hypothesis that BMP-2 expression in endothelial cells is governed by an H2O2 and nuclear factor (NF)-κΒ–dependent pathway that can be activated by both proinflammatory and mechanical stimuli. Methods and Results— The proinflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α induced NF-κΒ activation and elicited significant increases in BMP-2 mRNA and protein in primary coronary arterial endothelial cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells that were prevented by NF-κΒ inhibitors (pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate and SN-50), silencing of p65 (siRNA), or catalase. Administration of H2...
Perspectives on pathogenesis and prevention of congenital herpes virus infection

Meeting abstracts - A single PDF containing all abstracts in this Supplement is available <a href="http://
The Leaky Thermocline

A model for the vertical structure of ocean gyres is presented that extends the ideal thermocline theories of Rhines and Young and Luyten et al. to include a cross-layer volume flux associated with geostrophic eddy transfer. A two-and-one-half-layer model is considered that assumes that the intensity of the eddy transfer depends on the local strength of the current. The ideal thermocline models emerge in the limit where the parameter characterizing the cross-layer volume flux is asymptotically small. Inclusion of the eddy-induced volume flux resolves the nonuniqueness of the Sverdrup dynamics in the unventilated pool attached to the western boundary layer. In the ventilated region, solutions of the model equations converge to their ideal counterparts. The circulation is closed explicitly by developing a western boundary layer theory based entirely on the effects of the cross-isopycnal volume flux due to eddies. Unlike most models of western intensification, the leaky boundary layer here is active, and its dynamics are essential for determining the structure of the interior field.
Theory of the Discriminator Circuit for Automatic Frequency Control

The theory of the frequency-discriminator circuit which is used in radio receivers equipped with automatic frequency control is worked out. Formulas for computing gain, frequency-control sensitivity, adjacent-channel attentuation, pull-in range, etc., are developed. These formulas apply to any value of primary or secondary inductance and to any value of coil quality factor. The loading represented by the plate impedance of the driver tube and by the diodes is also taken into account. After slight modification, the resulting formulas can be used for various different circuit arrangements. Nonlinear audio-frequency, distortion is found to exist in the case where the channels for signal and automatic frequency control are common; these distortions, however, are small. It is found that the loading effect of the diodes is responsible for the poor selectivity resulting for most automatic-frequency-control transformers. A circuit in which the automatic frequency control and the signal channel are separated is preferable if better selectivity is desired.
MRI left ventricle segmentation and reconstruction for the study of the heart dynamics

A two-stage method for left ventricle (LV) segmentation in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is reported as the current results of an ongoing research carried on within a project devoted to the analysis and study of the cardiac dynamics. The first stage of the proposed method for LV segmentation is focused on the identification and localization of the left ventricle cavity, by means of fuzzy clustering and temporal regions tracking. The final segmentation is accomplished by a second processing stage, devoted to identify the left ventricle contours using an artificial neural network
Morphological Variation in the Cryptic Species Desmognathus quadramaculatus (Black-bellied Salamander) and Desmognathus folkertsi (Dwarf Black-bellied Salamander)

Abstract Plethodontid salamanders in general and the genus Desmognathus in particular exhibit extreme morphological conservatism and rampant homoplasy so that cryptic lineages are common. In spite of this, multivariate morphometric analysis has proven a useful tool in detecting subtle morphological differences among cryptic forms. We used this technique to investigate subtle differences in morphology among populations of Desmognathus quadramaculatus (Black-bellied Salamander) and its cryptic congener, Desmognathus folkertsi (Dwarf Black-bellied Salamander). We found significant morphological variation among five populations of D. quadramaculatus but not between two populations of D. folkertsi. We also determined there to be a significant, albeit weak, correlation between genetic distance and morphological (Mahalanobis) distance. Given the relationship between genetic and morphological distance, the high morphological variation within D. quadramaculatus, relative to that within D. folkertsi, is not surpris...
Vectored antibody gene delivery protects against Plasmodium falciparum sporozoite challenge in mice

Malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum kills nearly one million children each year and imposes crippling economic burdens on families and nations worldwide. No licensed vaccine exists, but infection can be prevented by antibodies against the circumsporozoite protein (CSP), the major surface protein of sporozoites, the form of the parasite injected by mosquitoes. We have used vectored immunoprophylaxis (VIP), an adeno-associated virus-based technology, to introduce preformed antibody genes encoding anti-P. falciparum CSP mAb into mice. VIP vector-transduced mice exhibited long-lived mAb expression at up to 1,200 µg/mL in serum, and up to 70% were protected from both i.v. and mosquito bite challenge with transgenic Plasmodium berghei rodent sporozoites that incorporate the P. falciparum target of the mAb in their CSP. Serum antibody levels and protection from mosquito bite challenge were dependent on the dose of the VIP vector. All individual mice expressing CSP-specific mAb 2A10 at 1 mg/mL or more were completely protected, suggesting that in this model system, exceeding that threshold results in consistent sterile protection. Our results demonstrate the potential of VIP as a path toward the elusive goal of immunization against malaria.
Pathogen regulation of plant diversity via effective specialization.

The Janzen–Connell (JC) hypothesis, one of the most influential hypotheses explaining forest diversity, is inconsistent with evidence that tree species share the same natural enemies. Through the discussion of seedling diseases from a pathogen-centered perspective, we expand the JC hypothesis to tie in host–pathogen–environment interactions at three levels: local adaptation, host specificity of the combined effect of multiple infections, and environmental modulation of disease. We present evidence from plant pathology, disease ecology, and host–parasite evolution relevant to (but not commonly associated with) forest species diversity maintenance. This expanded view of the JC hypothesis suggests ways to direct new experiments to integrate research on pathogen local adaptation, co-infection, and environmental effects on infection by using high-throughput molecular techniques and statistical models.
Saccharomyces cerevisiae Vacuolar H+-ATPase Regulation by Disassembly and Reassembly: One Structure and Multiple Signals

Vacuolar H+-ATPases (V-ATPases) are highly conserved ATP-driven proton pumps responsible for acidification of intracellular compartments. V-ATPase proton transport energizes secondary transport systems and is essential for lysosomal/vacuolar and endosomal functions. These dynamic molecular motors are composed of multiple subunits regulated in part by reversible disassembly, which reversibly inactivates them. Reversible disassembly is intertwined with glycolysis, the RAS/cyclic AMP (cAMP)/protein kinase A (PKA) pathway, and phosphoinositides, but the mechanisms involved are elusive. The atomic- and pseudo-atomic-resolution structures of the V-ATPases are shedding light on the molecular dynamics that regulate V-ATPase assembly. Although all eukaryotic V-ATPases may be built with an inherent capacity to reversibly disassemble, not all do so. V-ATPase subunit isoforms and their interactions with membrane lipids and a V-ATPase-exclusive chaperone influence V-ATPase assembly. This minireview reports on the mechanisms governing reversible disassembly in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, keeping in perspective our present understanding of the V-ATPase architecture and its alignment with the cellular processes and signals involved.
On Maxwell's concept of equivalent inhomogeneity: When do the interactions matter?

Abstract The concept of Maxwell's equivalent inhomogeneity is re-evaluated in the context of the effective elastic properties of unidirectional multi-phase composite materials with the fibers of circular cross-section. The following key questions are addressed in this paper. Is the concept of equivalent inhomogeneity valid only for the materials with low volume fractions, as originally suggested by Maxwell? When do the interactions among the fibers matter? Could Maxwell's concept be generalized to allow for accurate estimates of the effective properties? The approach advocated in the paper provides an unique opportunity to study, in the framework of one model, the effects of the interactions among fibers on the effective transversely isotropic elastic properties of multi-phase composite materials.
Mechanisms of Mitochondrial Fission and Fusion

Mitochondria continually change shape through the combined actions of fission, fusion, and movement along cytoskeletal tracks. The lengths of mitochondria and the degree to which they form closed networks are determined by the balance between fission and fusion rates. These rates are influenced by metabolic and pathogenic conditions inside mitochondria and by their cellular environment. Fission and fusion are important for growth, for mitochondrial redistribution, and for maintenance of a healthy mitochondrial network. In addition, mitochondrial fission and fusion play prominent roles in disease-related processes such as apoptosis and mitophagy. Three members of the Dynamin family are key components of the fission and fusion machineries. Their functions are controlled by different sets of adaptor proteins on the surface of mitochondria and by a range of regulatory processes. Here, we review what is known about these proteins and the processes that regulate their actions.
Clinical comparison of three-dimensional MP-RAGE and FLASH techniques for MR imaging of the head

Three-dimensional (3D) MP-RAGE (magnetization-prepared rapid gradient-echo) imaging was evaluated as a high-resolution 3D T1-weighted brain imaging technique for patients with suspected neurologic disease. Fourteen patients were studied. In five, 3D MP-RAGE images were compared with 3D FLASH (fast low-angle shot) images. Signal difference--to-noise ratios and T1 contrast were not statistically different for 3D MP-RAGE images as opposed to 3D FLASH images. Advantages intrinsic to the application of 3D MP-RAGE sequences include decreased imaging time and decreased motion artifact. With this technique, it is possible to perform a relatively motion-insensitive, T1-weighted screening brain study with voxel resolution of 1.0 x 1.4 x 2.0 mm or smaller, in an imaging time of 5.9 minutes or less--permitting offline (poststudy) reconstruction of high-resolution images in any desired plane.
Audiovestibular Dysfunction Associated with Adoptive Cell Immunotherapy for Melanoma

ObjectiveTo understand the audiologic and vestibular toxicities associated with adoptive cell immunotherapy (ACI) targeting pigment-pathway antigens on melanoma and to investigate the use of intratympanic steroid injections in the treatment of these toxicities.Study DesignProspective nonrandomized study.SettingTertiary clinical research center.MethodsThirty-two patients with progressive metastatic melanoma who failed conventional therapy underwent ACI with T cells genetically modified to target MART-1 (n = 18) or gp100 (n = 14). All patients received serial audiometric testing. Vestibular testing was performed on patients with vestibular complaints. Patients with significant deficits received intratympanic steroid injections.ResultsOf 32 patients, 15 had no hearing change, 9 had mild hearing loss, and 8 had moderate hearing loss following treatment. Ten patients received intratympanic steroid injections for mild (n = 2) or moderate (n = 7) hearing loss or for significant imbalance (n = 1). Of those with m...
From classical to intuitionistic probability

We generalize the Kolmogorov axioms for probability calculus to obtain conditions defining, for any given logic, a class of probability functions relative to that logic, coinciding with the standard probability functions in the special case of classical logic but allowing consideration of other classes of "essentially Kolmogorovian" probability functions relative to other logics. We take a broad view of the Bayesian approach as dictating inter alia that from the perspective of a given logic, rational degrees of belief are those representable by probability functions from the class appropriate to that logic. Classical Bayesianism, which fixes the logic as classical logic, is only one version of this general approach. Another, which we call Intuitionistic Bayesianism, selects intuitionistic logic as the preferred logic and the associated class of probability functions as the right class of candidate representions of epistemic states (rational allocations of degrees of belief). Various objections to classical Bayesianism are, we argue, best met by passing to intuitionistic Bayesianism—in which the probability functions are taken relative to intuitionistic logic—rather than by adopting a radically non-Kolmogorovian, for example, nonadditive, conception of (or substitute for) probability functions, in spite of the popularity of the latter response among those who have raised these objections. The interest of intuitionistic Bayesianism is further enhanced by the availability of a Dutch Book argument justifying the selection of intuitionistic probability functions as guides to rational betting behavior when due consideration is paid to the fact that bets are settled only when/if the outcome bet on becomes known.
Earthquake watch to be discussed

The most intensive earthquake monitoring program ever mounted in this country is going on near Parkfield, Calif., about midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco on the San Andreas fault. Although no particularly large or destructive quake is feared in Parkfield, the regularity with which earthquakes have occurred there in the past makes the site unique. Since the next quake has been forecast for 1988 (±5 years), seismologists have decided to blanket the area with data-gathering equipment in hopes of having front-row seats for the expected seismic show. The studies in Parkfield will be the topic of an all-day session sponsored by the Seismology Section on Friday, December 13, at the AGU Fall Meeting in San Francisco, Calif.
Species as family resemblance concepts: the (dis-)solution of the species problem?

The so-called "species problem" has plagued evolutionary biology since before Darwin's publication of the aptly titled Origin of Species. Many biologists think the problem is just a matter of semantics; others complain that it will not be solved until we have more empirical data. Yet, we don't seem to be able to escape discussing it and teaching seminars about it. In this paper, I briefly examine the main themes of the biological and philosophical literatures on the species problem, focusing on identifying common threads as well as relevant differences. I then argue two fundamental points. First, the species problem is not primarily an empirical one, but it is rather fraught with philosophical questions that require-but cannot be settled by-empirical evidence. Second, the (dis-)solution lies in explicitly adopting Wittgenstein's idea of "family resemblance" or cluster concepts, and to consider species as an example of such concepts. This solution has several attractive features, including bringing together apparently diverging themes of discussion among biologists and philosophers. The current proposal is conceptually independent (though not incompatible) with the pluralist approach to the species problem advocated by Mishler, Donoghue, Kitcher and Dupre, which implies that distinct aspects of the species question need to be emphasized depending on the goals of the researcher. From the biological literature, the concept of species that most closely matches the philosophical discussion presented here is Templeton's cohesion idea.