cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Isolation of vitamin B 12 transport mutants of Escherichia coli.

Escherichia coli KBT001, a methionine-vitamin B12 auxotroph, was found to require a minimum of 20 molecules of vitamin B12 (CN-B12) per cell for aerobic growth in the absence of methionine. After mutagenesis with N-methyl-N′-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine and penicillin selection, two kinds of B12 transport mutant were isolated from this strain. Mutants of class I, such as KBT069, were defective in the initial rapid binding of CN-B12 to the cell and were unable to grow in the absence of methionine even with CN-B12 concentrations as high as 100 ng/ml. The class II mutants possessed intact initial phases of CN-B12 uptake but were defective in the secondary energy-dependent phase. These strains were also unable to convert the CN-B12 taken up into other cobalamins. In the absence of methionine, some of these strains (e.g., KBT103) were able to grow on media containing 1 ng of CN-B12/ml, whereas others (e.g., KBT041) were unable to grow with any of the CN-B12 concentrations used. Osmotic shock treatment did not affect the initial rate of uptake of CN-B12 but gave a substantial decrease in the secondary rate. Trace amounts of B12-binding macromolecules were released from the cells by the osmotic shock, but only from strains such as KBT001 and KBT041 which possessed an active initial phase of CN-B12 uptake. These results are interpreted as being consistent with the view that the initial CN-B12 binding site which functions in this transport system is probably bound to the cell membrane.
Better approaches to cleaner air from electricity generation

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) developed the Clean Air Power Initiative (CAPI) as a more effective way to reduce air pollution from electric power generation. The Agency decided during the CAPI process to focus initially on nitrogen oxides (NOx) and sulfur dioxide (SOx) emissions. EPA developed a set of options that varied the level, timing, and type of approach to reducing emissions of NOx and SOx in order to meet the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 (CAAA) goals. The Agency analyzed the costs and emission reductions of these options using a new modeling approach. This paper describes the alternatives that EPA examined and summarizes its findings.
Robust estimation and control using command-to-state mapping

In this paper, the concept of command-to-state/output mapping is introduced for robust estimation under output feedback. Specifically, robust estimation is achieved if a command-to-state mapping of the plant converges to that of an uncertainty-free observer. It is shown using the Lyapunov direct method that, for a command-to-state mapping to be convergent, the Jacobian system corresponding to the observer (not the observer itself) should meet certain stability conditions. These conditions are in terms of algebraic Lyapunov equations, and they can be used to synthesize nonlinear observers in a similar fashion as the design of a stabilizing state-feedback control. The proposed method does not impose any structural condition and therefore it is both constructive and general.
IBD: Diagnosis and Evaluation

In 1932, Crohn, Ginzburg, and Oppenheimer described 13 patients with “regional ileitis.” It was their published description that established the formal classification of the disease syndrome and association with noncaseating granulomas. The surgeon involved in the care of the majority of the patients, Dr. AA Berg, did not want his name included in the article. Brooke and Lockhart-Mummery pointed out both the segmental and granulomatous nature of the colitis in CD. Brooke contributed significantly by introducing pioneering surgical techniques in the 1950s that created a more functional ileostomy. Truelove and Witts in 1959 reported on a double-blind, controlled study demonstrating the value of high-dose cortisone as treatment for severe colitis. The ileal pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA) was first described by Parks and Nicholls in 1978 and subsequently refined by Utsunomiya. The IPAA is now the standard of care for the surgical correction of UC.
Study on Compressive Strength of Pellets for the Novel Silicothermic Process

A novel process of magnesium production has been developed by changing the preparation method of pellets of silicothermic process. For the method, the pellets consist of dolomite, ferrosilicon, fluorite and binder, which need to be roasted before reduction. However, the discharge of carbon dioxide reduces compressive strength of the pellets during the calcinations. Therefore, the present paper reports the effects of calcination atmosphere, temperature and insulation post-processing conditions on compressive strength of pellets. The results indicated that compressive strength was increased with increasing calcination temperature and post-processing temperature. The value of compressive strength obtained in air was larger than that in other atmospheres. The compressive strength value reached 80N in the experimental condition. The pellet was reduced at 1473K for 60min and the reduction ratio reached 86.75%.
Folding of Membrane Proteins

Originally published in: Protein Folding Handbook. Part I. Edited by Johannes Buchner and Thomas Kiefhaber. Copyright © 2005 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA Weinheim. Print ISBN: 3-527-30784-2 The sections in this article are Introduction Thermodyamics of Residue Partitioning into Lipid Bilayers Stability of β-Barrel Proteins Stability of Helical Membrane Proteins Helix and Other Lateral Interactions in Membrane Proteins The Membrane Interface as an Important Contributor to Membrane Protein Folding Membrane Toxins as Models for Helical Membrane Protein Insertion Mechanisms of β-Barrel Membrane Protein Folding Experimental Protocols SDS Gel Shift Assay for Heat-modifiable Membrane Proteins Reversible Folding and Unfolding Protocol Using OmpA as an Example Tryptophan Fluorescence and Time-resolved Distance Determination by Tryptophan Fluorescence Quenching TDFQ Protocol for Monitoring the Translocation of Tryptophans across Membranes Circular Dichroism Spectroscopy Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy Protocol for Obtaining Conformation and Orientation of Membrane Proteins and Peptides by Polarized ATR-FTIR Spectroscopy Acknowledgments Keywords: protein folding; membrane proteins; beta barrel proteins; circular dichroism; protein stability
Prescription medication advertising: professional discomfort and potential patient benefits – can the two be balanced?

This paper reviews current controversies surrounding direct-to-consumer (DTC) promotion of prescription drugs in an attempt to address the empirical information void and to provide a framework for sound policy deliberations by policy-makers. While brand specific DTC promotion is currently restricted to only two developed countries, the issues discussed are relevant not only to countries contemplating deregulatory provisions but also to all those impacted by the diffusion over time of new electronic media such as the internet. The paper begins by reviewing the principal arguments put forward by supporters and by opponents of the activity. It then reports on a series of interconnected empirical studies that examine perceptions of the impact DTC has on patient consultations and on the physician–patient relationship in New Zealand, one of the markets where prescription drug promotion direct to consumers is permitted. It concludes with a discussion of managerial implications in order to facilitate informed deb...
Relativity as the quantum mechanics of space-time measurements

Can a simple microscopic model of space and time demonstrate Special Relativity as the macroscopic (aggregate) behavior of an ensemble ? The question will be investigated in three parts. First, it is shown that the Lorentz transformation formally stems from the First Relativity Postulate (FRP) {\it alone} if space-time quantization is a fundamental law of physics which must be included as part of the Postulate. An important corollary, however, is that when measuring devices which carry the basic units of lengths and time (e.g. a clock ticking every time quantum) are `moving' uniformly, they appear to be measuring with larger units. Secondly, such an apparent increase in the sizes of the quanta can be attributed to extra fluctuations associated with motion, which are precisely described in terms of a thermally agitated harmonic oscillator by using a temperature parameter. This provides a stringent constraint on the microscopic properties of flat space-time: it is an array of quantized oscillators. Thirdly, since the foregoing development would suggest that the space-time array of an accelerated frame cannot be in thermal equilibrium, (i.e. it will have a distribution of temperatures), the approach is applied to the case of acceleration by the field of {\it any} point object, which corresponds to a temperature `spike' in the array. It is shown that the outward transport of energy by phonon conduction implies an inverse-square law of force at low speeds, and the full Schwarzschild metric at high speeds. A prediction of the new theory is that when two inertial observers move too fast relative to each other, or when fields are too strong, anharmonic corrections will modify effects like time dilation, and will lead to asymmetries which implies that the FRP may not be sustainable in this extreme limit.
Supernovae and supernova remnants at low frequencies

The intrinsic radio emission from supernovae and their remnants is still poorly understood so that observations over the broadest possible frequency range can be very useful. An example of a peculiarity at low frequencies is the 38 MHz “flare” observed from Cas A in the mid-1970's. Such events could provide the key to understanding the radio emission from a remnant like Cas A.
Characteristics of ice grains in the Enceladus plume from Cassini observations

Ice grains in the Enceladus plume have been observed by several Cassini instruments during many Enceladus encounters. In this paper we study the ice grains ranging from less than one nanometer to micrometers in size based on multiple instrument observations. We have analyzed the nanograin data from the E17 and E18 Cassini Plasma Spectrometer (CAPS) energy spectra using the approach of Hill et al. (2012) and studied the charging of the grains using the E3–E6 Radio and Plasma Wave Spectrometer (RPWS)-Langmuir Probe (LP) data presented by Morooka et al. (2011). To bridge the gap between CAPS nanograin observations and Cosmic Dust Analyzer and RPWS micrograin observations, we propose a composite size distribution and fit it to the E3, E5, E17, and E18 CAPS and RPWS data. The resulting size distribution peaks at ~2 nm and provides a total grain mass density ~20% that of the water vapor measured by Ion and Neutral Mass Spectrometer at the densest part of the plume and a total grain charge density much smaller than that inferred from the RPWS-LP plasma data. Charge balance with the RPWS-LP plasma data would require many more grains than provided by the best fit composite distribution to the CAPS and RPWS data and would provide a grain mass density comparable to that of the water vapor. On the basis of these results, we study the subsequent motion of the ice grains and estimate the resulting grain current (~104 to ~105A) and grain mass production rate (~15–65 kg/s).
Comparative Evaluation of Binary Features

Performance evaluation of salient features has a long-standing tradition in computer vision. In this paper, we fill the gap of evaluation for the recent wave of binary feature descriptors, which aim to provide robustness while achieving high computational efficiency. We use established metrics to embed our assessment into the body of existing evaluations, allowing us to provide a novel taxonomy unifying both traditional and novel binary features. Moreover, we analyze the performance of different detector and descriptor pairings, which are often used in practice but have been infrequently analyzed. Additionally, we complement existing datasets with novel data testing for illumination change, pure camera rotation, pure scale change, and the variety present in photo-collections. Our performance analysis clearly demonstrates the power of the new class of features. To benefit the community, we also provide a website for the automatic testing of new description methods using our provided metrics and datasets www.cs.unc.edu/feature-evaluation.
Ultrastructure of ascospore delimitation in freeze substituted samples of Ascodesmis nigricans (Pezizales)

Freeze substitution proved to be a valuable technique for studying the early stages of ascosporogenesis inAscodesmis nigricans. Our observations indicate that the ascus vesicle originated from the ascus plasma membrane. Invaginations of the plasma membrane produced ascus vesicle initials consisting of two closely spaced unit membranes. The appearance of the outer leaflet of each of these membranes was identical to that of the inner leaflet of the ascus plasma membrane. Apparent points of continuity between ascus vesicle initials and the plasma membrane were observed. Ascus vesicle initials accumulated in the ascus cytoplasm near the plasma membrane and then coalesced to form the ascus vesicle, a peripheral, cylinder-like structure consisting of two closely spaced unit membranes that extended from the ascus apex to the ascus base. The ascus vesicle then became invaginated in a number of regions and subsequently gave rise to eight sheet-like segments, or ascosporedelimiting membranes, that encircled uninucleate segments of cytoplasm forming ascospore initials. Like the ascus vesicle, each ascospore-delimiting membrane consisted of two closely spaced unit membranes, the inner of which became the ascospore plasma membrane. The ascospore wall then developed between the spore plasma membrane and the outer membrane. Many details of ascospore maturation were clearly visible in freeze substituted samples.
Rotational and Translational Dynamics of N‑Butyl‑N‑methylpiperidinium Trifluoromethanesulfonimide Ionic Liquids Studied by NMR and MD Simulations

Translational and rotational dynamics of the room temperature ionic liquid N-butyl-N-methylpiperidinium trifluoromethanesulfonimide, [C4mpip][Tf2N], were investigated by 1H, 19F, and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. 1H NMR and MD results for the temperature-dependent diffusion coefficients, D, spin–lattice relaxation times, T1, and rotational correlation times, τc, for each site in the cation of [C4mpip][Tf2N] are in good agreement. The T1 data indicate a long N–CH3 group rotation time, comparable to the overall molecular reorientation time. Correlation time comparisons between 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium RTILs with different anions (Cl–, PF6–, Tf2N–) argue against invoking hydrogen bond interactions between the N–CH3 hydrogens and the electron rich center of the anion as an explanation of the long N–CH3 rotation times. Correlation time comparisons between piperidinium and pyrrolidinium RTILs with a common anion (Tf2N–) suggest that correlation time...
STUDIES ON THE AMINO ACID SEQUENCE OF TOBACCO MOSAIC VIRUS PROTEIN. V. AMINO ACID SEQUENCES OF TWO PEPTIDES FROM TRYPTIC DIGESTS AND LOCATION OF AMIDE GROUP.

Abstract Data concerning the sequence of the 41 amino acids of the N-terminal peptide (peptide 1) of TMV protein, as well as of the amino acids of the dodecapeptide 10 are reported. Additional evidence concerning the doubtful allocation of the amide groups in peptide 8 is presented. The complete primary structure of the protein (158 residues) shows 2 amino acid transpositions and 3 corrected amide group allocations compared to that reported from this laboratory in 1960.
SU‐GG‐I‐128: Biophysical Studies of Tendon to Elucidate Magic Angle MRI

Purpose: The “Magic Angle Effect” observed in cartilage, tendon and other collagen rich tissues of the extracellular matrix have largely unused potential for evaluation of musculo‐skeletal disease processes. These studies seek to improve understanding of the molecular basis for magic angle phenomena based on collagen hydration. We hypothesize that improved understanding will provide a conceptual framework and extend the ability of musculo‐skeletal radiologists to design protocols using MRI orientational contrast for better accuracy and specificity. Method and Materials: These studies use Differential Scanning Calorimetry(DSC) to directly measure the enthalpy and entropy of water bound to rat tail collagen/tendon at different hydration levels. Water vapor sorption and recovery rehydration rates of rat tail collagen/tendon at 22 °C were also measured. Measured bound water fractions are compared to the theoretical values (h=0.263 g/g) predicted from the molecular structure of collagen. Bound water hydration measured with both methods agreed with the molecular prediction of water bound to the protein back bone. Statistical analyses performed using Graphpad Prism. Results: The water vapor sorption and DSC studies of collagen/tendon at 22 °C show that both equilibrium hydration and enthalpy are linear functions of relative humidity up to critical hydration of the protein backbone h = 0.26 g/g. The water bridge hydration hypothesis identifies three hydration water fractions in direct contact with the protein that differ in motional/orientational properties from bulk water. Comparison to T1 and T2 relaxation rate and orientational studies shows the relaxation rate of tendon is determined by fast exchange of water between these motional and orientational restricted water fractions. Conclusion: This work offers evidence for the important role of protein main chain hydration in determining MRI contrast due to dielectric binding of polar water molecules interacting with partial electric charges separated on the backbone by steric restrictions of the collagen molecule.
Physical State of Cellulose During Ripening of Peach

SUMMARY Cell walls of ripening fruits of peach were purified of a large part of their non-cellulosic components and examined with X-ray techniques. Small, but distinct, increases in micellar size, and perhaps in percentages of crystallinity, are a function of the maturation process. These increases are interpreted as evidence of a limited degradation of cellulose (broadly defined).
Performance of a 23KW Solar Thermal Cooling System Employing a Double Effect Absorption Chiller and Thermodynamically Efficient Non-tracking Concentrators

Abstract A solar thermal cooling system using novel non-tracking External Compound Parabolic Concentrators (XCPC) has been built and operated for two cooling seasons (summers of 2011 and 2012). Its performance in providing power for space cooling has been analyzed. This solar cooling system is comprised of 53.3 m2of XCPC trough collectors which are used to power a 23 kW double effect (LiBr) absorption chiller. This is the first system that combines both XCPC and absorption chilling technologies. Performance of the system was measured in both sunny and cloudy conditions. The collector system maintained operating temperatures between 160-200 °C. When operated in this temperature range, the XCPC collector array collected solar energy with an average daily efficiency of 36.7% and reached instantaneous efficiencies up to 40%. The thermal COP of the system (including thermal losses and COP of absorption chiller) averaged at 0.99 and the daily solar COP of the entire system averaged 0.363. It was found that these collectors are well suited at providing thermal power to drive absorption cooling systems and that both the coinciding of available thermal power with cooling demand and the simplicity of the XCPC collectors compared to other solar thermal collectors makes them a highly attractive candidate for cooling projects. XCPC technology has numerous potential applications and is currently being commercialized in the U.S. and India
Diagnosis and seroprevalence of leptospirosis in California sea lions from coastal California.

The sensitivity and specificity of the microscopic agglutination test (MAT) as a method for detection of exposure to Leptospiraspp. in California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) were determined. Sera came from individuals that demonstrated clinical signs of renal disease, had lesions suggestive of leptospirosis at necropsy, and had visible leptospires in silver stained kidney sections as positive controls. Sera from unexposed captive individuals were used as negative controls. The test was 100% sensitive at 1:3,200 for confirming renal infection and 100% specific at negative <1:100 for detection of Leptospira interrogansserovar pomona antibodies by MAT in California sea lions. Leptospira interrogansserovar pomona was used as a screening serovar because it has been isolated previously from the kidneys and placentas of California sea lions, and there appears to be cross-reactivity between serovar pomona and other serovars. Sera from 225 free-ranging California sea lions presented to one of three particip...
Reducing bias and improving precision in species extinction forecasts

Forecasting the risk of population decline is crucial in the realm of biological conservation and figures prominently in population viability analyses (PVA). A common form of available data for a PVA is population counts through time. Previous research has suggested that improving estimates of population trends and risk from count data depends on longer observation periods, but that is often impractical or undesirable. Making multiple observations within a single time step is an alternative way to gather more data without extending the observation period. In this paper, we examine the trade-off between the length of the time period over which observations of the population have been taken and the total number of observations or samples that have been recorded through an analysis of simulated data. We found that when the ratio of process error to measurement error variance is high, more precise estimates of quasi-extinction risks can be obtained if replicated observations are taken at each time step, but when the ratio is low, replicated observations add little benefit in improving precision. These results can be used to efficiently design effective monitoring schemes for species of conservation concern.
Alterations in the Number of Ovine Luteal Receptors for LH and Progesterone Secretion Induced by Homologous Hormone

To study the events associated with down-regulation of receptors for luteinizing hormone (LH) in the ovine corpus luteum, normally cycling ewes were injected i.v. with 1 mg LH on Day 10 of the estrous cycle. Changes in concentrations of LH and progesterone in serum, luteal concen trations of progesterone and numbers of luteal receptors for LH were measured up to 72 h after LH injection. Serum levels of LH increased more than 1000-fold (P<0.01) from a control level of 298 Â±23 pg/ml (mean Â±SEM) to 327 Â±22 ng/ml at 10 mm, then returned to control levels by 24 h. Progesterone concentrations in serum increased (P<0.05) from 2.63 Â±0.29 (least squares mean Â±SEM) to 4.09 Â±0.29 ng/ml within 10 mm after administration of LH, remained elevated for 2 h, decreased to control levels within 4 h, but never decreased below control levels. Proges terone content of the corpus luteum was correlated (r = 0.78, P<0.05) with progesterone concen trations in serum. The number of unoccupied receptors decreased (P<0.05) by 66% from control levels of 2.63 Â±0.48 X 1012 mol/corpus luteum to 0.90 Â±0.48 X 1012 mol/corpus luteum by 12 h. Recovery to control levels had occurred between 24â€”48h. Within 10 mm the total number of receptors for LH increased 260% while the number of occupied receptors increased 13-fold from control levels of 0.41 Â±0.66 X 1012 mol/corpus luteum to 5.43 Â±0.73 X 1012 mol/corpus luteum. The number of receptors occupied by LH decreased rapidly until 6 h and had returned to control values by 24 h. Serum concentrations of progesterone were correlated (r = 0.80, P<0.05) with the number of occupied receptors during the first 24 h after LH injection. In addition, there was good correlation between the number of receptors occupied by LH at 10 min (5.43 X 10-12 mol/corpus luteum) and the number of total receptors lost from 10 min to 24 h (6.75 X 10-12 mol/corpus luteum) after LH injection. These data suggest that down-regulation of ovine luteal receptors forLH involves thelossofoccupiedreceptors, perhapsviainternalization ofhormone receptor complexes. In addition, a mechanism for the replacement of receptors is proposed.
Thermodynamic analysis of two-component, two-phase flow in solar collectors with application to a direct-expansion solar-assisted heat pump

Two-phase flow of pure chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) refrigerants in solar collector tubes has been examined in previous studies in connection with applications in direct-expansion, solar-assisted heat pumps (DX-SAHP). The present work extends the thermodynamic analysis of solar collectors to the multicomponent and multiphase domain to cover newly proposed refrigerant mixtures which are potential candidates for replacing CFCs in future DX-SAHP systems. A computational methodology is developed to determine the size of a solar collector of a DX-SAHP that uses a binary refrigerant mixture whose thermodynamic and transport properties are predicted from a computer code. The energy equation for the elemental collector tube control volume, incorporating the local thermodynamic and heat transfer characteristics, is integrated to determine the tube length for a given set of inlet and exit thermodynamic states of the refrigerant mixture. Effects of various parameters such as the collector mass-flow rate and operating pressure, tube diameter and absorbed solar radiation on the collector tube length, heat transfer coefficient, and the local refrigerant temperature in the tube are also considered.
A simple calculation scheme for the luminous-flame emissivity

A simple expression for the total emissivity of a luminous flame has been established on the basis of a flame-radiation model that consists of gray soot and non-gray gases. The gray-soot approximation is demonstrated to be an accurate characterization of soot emission from both the analytical formulation and the experimental observations. This simple model also allows a comparative analysis of soot emission characteristics in flames produced by various common solid and gaseous fuels. The present calculations for the luminous-flame emissivity show excellent agreement with existing experimental data and exact analysis.
Patterns of Support for George Wallace: Implications for Racial Change

Evidence to support the argument that George Wallace's popularity is a product of rising antiblack sentiment is examined with a focus on the evaluation of Wallace by northern whites across a number of national surveys. Demographic characteristics of supporters are examined and the link between racial attitudes and pro-Wallace tendencies is explored. It is concluded that the role of racial prejudice in Wallace's northern support has been exaggerated, that the Wallace phenomenon is a symptom not a cause of structural changes in the political system, and that party leaders are overreacting to myths about the extent of Wallace's influence.
Specters at the Port of Entry:Understanding State Mobilities through an Ontology of Exclusion

Abstract This paper suggests that recent literature on the ‘new mobilities paradigm’ largely overlooks the role of state mobilities. It argues for the inclusion of state mobilities, and addresses a range of sites of study to build this case. These landscapes offer material expressions where state mobility can be examined. The paper then offers a sustained examination of the port of entry as a seemingly static and yet increasingly mobile expression of state infrastructure and power. The ports of entry under examination are all found in close proximity to the US-Canada border. The provisional nature of their appearance and disappearance highlights the dialectical spatial relations between mobilities and moorings, working simultaneously to conceal exclusion and shrink spaces of asylum. This concealment requires, in turn, an ontology of exclusion.
Effects of adjective orientation and gradability on sentence subjectivity

Subjectivity is a pragmatic, sentence-level feature that has important implications for text processing applications such as information extraction and information retrieval. We study the effects of dynamic adjectives, semantically oriented adjectives, and gradable adjectives on a simple subjectivity classifier, and establish that they are strong predictors of subjectivity. A novel trainable method that statistically combines two indicators of gradability is presented and evaluated, complementing existing automatic techniques for assigning orientation labels.
Hybrid Approaches to Complex Aortic Arch Aneurysms

The management of aortic arch aneurysms remains a clinical challenge. Although open operative techniques have been refined with improving results over the last 2 decades, neurologic and cardiovascular complications remain significant causes of morbidity and mortality. This is related to the requirement for hypothermic circulatory arrest with adjunct cerebral perfusion strategies during open aortic arch surgery. In patients thought to be at prohibitively high risk for conventional repair, an alternative therapy is much desired. The recent introduction of thoracic aortic endovascular stent grafting (TEVAR) has provided an alternative surgical option in patients felt to be at prohibitively high risk for conventional open aortic arch repair. Combining conventionalsurgicaltechniqueswithendovasculartechnology,this so-called “hybrid” aortic arch repair seeks to minimize the “operation” by either eliminating or significantly simplifying and shortening the arch reconstruction, thus limiting the duration of circulatory arrest and cerebral ischemia. The arch hybrid repair is a landing zone “0” endovascular repair of the aortic arch and is guided by the 2 following fundamental concepts: (1) brachiocephalic bypass, or revascularization of the great vessels; (2) construction of optimal proximal and distallandingzonesforTEVAR.Therefore,archhybridrepair comprises open surgical techniques for great vessel revascularization and landing zone reconstruction along with endovascular stent grafting performed concomitantly or at a later time. The arch hybrid repair is especially appealing in older patients and in those with significant comorbidities who may not tolerate prolonged cardiopulmonary bypass and circulatory arrest. This report focuses on aortic arch hybrid operative techniques.
Endometrial cancer survivor perspectives on weight loss and lifestyle modifications: A Uterine Cancer Action Network study

Objectives: To examine the experiences and preferences of uterine cancer (UC) survivors with regard to weight and lifestyle counseling performed by their cancer providers. Methods: Members of the Uterine Cancer Action Network of the Foundation for Women's Cancer were invited to complete a 45-item web-based survey. Standard descriptive statistical methods and chi square tests were used to analyze responses. Results: For the 177/657 UC survivors who completed the survey (27%), themedian agewas 58 years, 90%werewhite, and themedian length of survivorship was 4.4 years. Most were diagnosed with stage I disease (89%). Eighty-nine percent received their cancer care from a gynecologic oncologist (GO). Sixty-five percent classified themselves as overweight or obese. Increased respondent bodymass index was associated with decreased exercise frequency (P = 0.016). Only 50% of respondents received any weight or lifestyle counseling. Counseling rates differed significantly between geographic regions, with respondents in the West and Southwest reporting the highest rates (70.8% and 69.2%, P = 0.011). Most who received counseling felt that discussions were motivating, were performed sensitively, and did not undermine the patient–physician relationship. However, 72% of respondents did not believe that specific recommendations or interventions were offered; no survivors reported referrals to weight loss programs or bariatric specialists and few (6%) reported referrals to nutritionists. Overweight patients experienced greater successes with weight loss/ lifestyle changes compared to their obese or morbidly obese counterparts (30.8% vs. 15.8% vs. 12.5%, P = 0.011). Respondents (85%) preferred that their GO address weight using direct, face-toface counseling, with specific recommendations for interventions and referral to weight specialists. Conclusions: In this UC Action Network study, survivors reported high obesity and low activity rates and desire for substantive weight loss counseling from their GOs. Respondents suggested that current counseling practices are inadequate and incongruent with their needs, especially for morbidly obese survivors. Specific weight loss recommendations, with referrals to other specialists for lifestyle interventions, were desired.
Effects of glucagon and secretin on food- or morphine-induced motor activity of the distal colon, rectum, and anal sphincter

The effects of glucagon and secretin on food- or morphine-induced motor activity of the distal colon, rectum, and internal anal sphincter were investigated in 12 healthy subjects. Intraluminal pressure changes were measured using a triple-lumen polyvinyl tube assembly with 3 side orifices. Glucagon, administered intravenously, caused significant inhibition of food- or morphine-induced motor activity of both the distal colon and rectum. In contrast, secretin did not suppress morphine-induced motor activity but did significantly inhibit food-stimulated motor activity of the distal colon. The inhibitory effect of secretin on motor activity of the rectum was insignificant. Morphine, but not food, elevated the pressure of the anal sphincter which was not effected by glucagon or secretin. Hyperglycemia, produced by the infusion of 5% glucose, had no effect on motor activity. These studies demonstrate that glucagon but not secretin, in the doses employed, inhibits morphine-induced motor wave activity of both the distal colon and rectum and that this inhibitory effect is not secondary to hyperglycemia. Furthermore, the rise in anal sphincter pressure is not affected by glucagon or secretin.
Actinomycin D‐sensitive Periods in the Differentiation of Drosophila Neurons and Muscle Cells in vitro

Observations were made of neuroblasts differentiating into neurons, and myoblasts differentiating into myocytes in cultures of embryonic Drosophila cells. Axons greater than 50 μm long appeared in vitro between 7.5 and 16.5 h, and pulsating myocytes appeared between 12.5 and 23.5 h. Actinomycin D treatment prevented neuroblasts and myoblasts from proceeding in differentiation. Neurons became resistant to actinomycin D when they reached the stage of axon initiation, and axon elongation was not actinomycin D-sensitive. Myocytes were sensitive to actinomycin D until they attained the ability to pulsate, and ongoing pulsations were not halted by the drug. Autoradiographs and controls indicated that actinomycin D prevented uridine incorporation by about 90% but prevented leucine and thymidine incorporation by 6% or less in these cells. The results favour the interpretation that transcription is necessary in neuron differentation up to the point of axon initiation and in myocytes up to the point where pulsations can begin. Since ribosomal RNA synthesis is unnecessary for these differentiations, necessary RNA synthesis would be messenger or transfer RNA, or RNA of unknown identity.
How disconfirmation, perception and actual waiting times impact customer satisfaction

The experience of waiting for service is often the first direct interaction between customers and most service delivery processes. The literature on satisfaction with waiting has paralleled the literature on general service satisfaction, in which the relative importance of actual performance, perceived performance, and the disconfirmation between expected performance and perceived performance has been the subject of much debate. This paper presents an empirical study of satisfaction with waiting for service in a fast food environment. The study demonstrates that actual waiting time, perceived waiting time, and the disconfirmation between expected waiting time and perceived waiting time are all related to satisfaction with the waiting experience. It further demonstrates that the relative importance of each of these variables in predicting satisfaction depends on the differences in the needs of the customers. The implications for both theory and practice are significant: the importance of the perception of the experience increases as the importance of the satisfaction measure increases. More specifically, for customers who are concerned about time, the perception of the time spent waiting is a better predictor of satisfaction than the actual waiting time.
The Reliability of Modern Alumina Bearings in Total Hip Arthroplasty

Ceramic bearing failure in total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a rare but serious complication. The incidence of such failures has declined steadily because of improvements in ceramic material quality, manufacturing methods, and implant design. The incidence of failures of the Biolox (CeramTec AG, Plochingen, Germany) forte brand of alumina components produced by CeramTec was 0.02%, or 2 in 10,000 from January 2000 to May 2006. The current estimation of the risk of an alumina THA bearing failure is 2 in 10,000 cases; most of these failures involve alumina femoral heads. Alumina bearings used in modern THA implants are safe and reliable, with a very low risk of failure.
Ultrastructure of white-streaked Dendrobium phalaenopsis orchid flowers infected with a rhabdovirus

This report describes the first true rhabdovirus in orchids. Virions occurred as long bacilliform particles with a mean length of 320 ± 10 nm and as enveloped bullet-shaped particles and short bacilliform particles with a mean length of 180 ± 10 nm. Semienveloped bullet-shaped particles also were present. Both enveloped and unenveloped particles were in the perinuclear space. Inclusion bodies of similar appearance and density were in the nucleoplasm and the perinuclear space. No virus particles were observed in association with the inclusion bodies in the nucleoplasm but unenveloped virions were found on the margin of the inclusion bodies in the perinuclear space. Perinuclear pockets containing virions were often invaginated into the nucleoplasm or evaginated into the cytoplasm. In contrast to other bacilliform viruses studied in orchids, this virus did not induce the formation of membrane-bounded vesicles lined with unenveloped particles (“spokewheels”) in the cytoplasm. The morphological differences between this virus and other bacilliform viruses found in orchids may represent distinct modes of development of different viruses.
Characterization of a thymus-tropic HIV-1 isolate from a rapid progressor: role of the envelope

Loss of T cell homeostasis usually precedes the onset of AIDS. We hypothesized that rapid progressors may be transmitted with HIV-1 that is particularly able to perturb T cell homeostasis. To this end, we have tested two transmitted, syncytium-inducing (SI) viral isolates from a rapid progressor in two thymus models. One of the isolates (R3A) exhibited markedly rapid kinetics of replication and thymocyte depletion. These phenotypes mapped to the envelope, as a recombinant NL4-3 virus encoding the R3A envelope had similar phenotypes, even in the absence of nef. Notably, the viruses with high pathogenic activity in the thymus (R3A and NL4-R3A) did not show enhanced replication or cytopathicity in PHA-stimulated PBMCs. Furthermore, NL4-R3A did not enhance replication of the coinfected NL4-3 virus in the thymus, suggesting an intrinsic advantage of the R3A envelope. The R3A envelope showed higher entry activity in infecting human T cells and in depleting CD4+ thymocytes when expressed in trans. These data suggest that SI viruses with unique envelope functions which can overcome barriers to transmission may hasten disease progression by perturbing T cell homeostasis.
Minimal order, measurable output, disturbance rejection feedback compensators

A new necessary and sufficient condition is established for existence of a measureable output disturbance rejection feed-back for a given multivariable linear system with disturbances. If the developed condition does not hold a method of determination of extension of the given system via a dynamic compensator is presented. An upper and lower bound on a minimal extension is established. Stability of the closed loop system is considered and structure of the closed loop characteristic polynomial is discussed. The developed results are applied to solve rational matrix equations G(s)X(s)N(s)+H(s) = 0. It is shown that existence of a proper transfer matrix solution X(s) to G(s)X(s)N(s) + H(s) = 0 is equivalent with existence of a measurable output disturbance rejection feedback for a certain multivariable linear system with disturbances.
Interference between nonresonant three-photon absorption and third-harmonic generation and the cancellation of four-photon resonances.

We investigate the theory of cancellation by interference between the absorption of three fundamental laser photons and one third-harmonic photon. The theory is formulated in terms of the density matrix so as to take detunings, dephasing, and and laser bandwidth into account. The result is a theory of cancellation for finite detuning that explains how four-photon resonances can be canceled by a three-photon mechanism, if there is an atomic level at near three-photon resonance. We obtain explicit conditions for this to happen, and perform calculations pertaining to a recent experiment [D. Charalambdis et al., Phys. Rev. A (to be published)] where cancellation of 4+1 resonantly enhanced multiphoton ionization has been observed.
Foot Temperature in Healthy Individuals: Effects of Ambient Temperature and Age

Background: Patient complaints of excessively warm or cold feet are common in medical practice. Such symptoms can be caused by underlying vascular or neurologic disease, and measurement of foot temperature during daily activity and sleep could provide a deeper understanding of their actual thermal basis. Methods: We used a Thermochron iButton to assess surface foot temperature variation and its relationship to ambient temperature during the day with activity and at night during sleep in 39 healthy individuals aged 18 to 65 years in a temperate region of the United States. We simultaneously used actigraphy to record leg movement. Results: We identified a mean ± SD awake temperature of 30.6° ± 2.6° C and asleep temperature of 34.0° ± 1.8° C, with values reaching as low as 15.9°C in the winter and as high as 37.5°C in the summer. Foot temperature was found to be independent of foot movement or sex; however, there was, as expected, a strong association between foot temperature and ambient temperature (r = .59...
Electrochemistry of poly(methyl vinyl ether-maleic anhydride)-polyvinyl alcohol membranes

The electrochemical properties of a series of baked poly(methyl vinyl ether-maleic anhydride)-polyvinyl alcohol membranes were investigated. Increased baking time and carboxylic acjd content reduced swelling and osmotic flow, and increased the concentration potentials. Near-maximum concentration potentials were obtained for some membranes in a limited concentration range.
The molecular dynamics of poly(1, 4-Trans-butadiene) in the amorphous state and in an inclusion complex

The molecular dynamics of poly(1, 4-trans-butadiene) in the amorphous state at bulk density and in its inclusion complex with perhydrotriphenylene are compared here. The internal motions differ in the two systems, due to the occupation of gauche states at CH2-CH2 of the amorphous polymer, but the exclusion of gauche states at these bonds in the inclusion complex. This difference in conformational preferences at CH2-CH2 has consequences for the decay rates for the orientation autocorrelation functions.
Computer-aided graphical design of spatial mechanisms

Abstract The paper discusses graphical methods of designing spatial mechanisms on the CAD (Computer Aided Drafting) system through a function-generation problem, a path-generation problem and a motion-generation problem. The results are compared with those by analytical methods. It is shown that spatial mechanisms can be designed by graphical methods on the CAD system effectively and accurately. accurately
A trail pheromone from silk produced by larvae of the range caterpillarHemileuca oliviae (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae) and observations on aggregation behavior

Methylene chloride-extractable chemical(s) from range caterpillar larval silk facilitates trail-following and aggregation by early-instar larvae, but late-instar larvae are less responsive to the pheromone. Larval aggregation does not reduce water loss when larvae are exposed to low humidity, nor does aggregation prevent predation by the antFormica neoclara Emery. Grouped larvae gain weight and complete early stadia more rapidly as compared to solitary larvae. Aggregation may provide increased visibility to herbivores and increase the impact of urticating spines, thereby decreasing inadvertant predation.
TOWARD MAKING THE AMS CARBON NEUTRAL Offsetting the Impacts of Flying to Conferences

©2007 American Meteorological Society T he AMS recently endorsed the National Academies statement on the global response to climate change. We officially recognize the high probability of global warming from anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions and implicitly endorse their recommendation to “take prompt action to reduce the causes of climate change.” The AMS could underline the organization’s stance on reducing greenhouse-gas emissions by becoming “carbon neutral.” This would involve conservation efforts as well as the purchase of carbon offsets. In effect, the AMS would tax itself for continuing to pollute while donating the receipts to organizations that will fund projects that achieve equal reductions in emissions. By committing to carbon neutrality, the AMS would lead by example and demonstrate that we take the consequences of global warming seriously.1 The AMS produces a carbon footprint through many activities, including its headquarters operations at 45 Beacon Stret, the publishing and dissemination of journal articles, and the conduct of conferences. This last and assumedly predominant impact shall be the primary topic here. For many of us, regularly f lying to and from AMS conferences produces copious greenhouse gas emissions (of course, f lying anywhere will have the same sort of impact). To quantify this, suppose you drive 12,000 miles this year (~ 19,312 km) in a car that averages 25 miles per gallon (~ 10.6 km/liter). In this way you would produce a greenhouse gas effect of approximately 4.45 metric tons (1000 kg/metric ton) of carbon dioxide (CO2). 2 In comparison, one round-trip ticket from Denver to Washington, D.C., produces approximately the greenhouse-gas effect equivalent to 1.32 metric tons of CO2. 3 Multiply this effect by the more than four thousand attendees annually to AMS conferences and the magnitude of our annual contribution from air travel becomes clear.4 As atmospheric scientists, it should discomfort us that even as we strive to reduce our personal emissions, our work travel can reduce the impact of these efforts.
Short-wavelength bottom-emitting VCSELs

The fabrication and performance of selectively oxidized 850 nm vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) diodes which emit through transparent GaP substrates is reported. Emission through the substrate is advantageous for many VCSEL configurations, such as for the incorporation of optical elements in the substrate or flip-chip integration to microelectronic circuitry. The short wavelength bottom- emitting VCSELs are fabricated by wafer fusion using an inert gas low temperature annealing process. The electrical characteristics of n- and p-type GaAs/GaAs and GaAs/GaP wafer bonded interfaces have been examined to optimize the annealing temperature. A significant reduction of the current-voltage characteristics of the VCSELs bonded to GaP substrates has been achieved whereby the bottom-emitting VCSELs show similar threshold voltage as compared to top- emitting lasers.