cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evaluating breast lymphoplasmacytic infiltrates: a multiparameter immunohistochemical study, including assessment of IgG4

Lymphoplasmacytic infiltrates in the breast, a modified skin appendage, include lymphocytic lobulitis, other nonspecific benign proliferations, and mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT)-type lymphoma. Distinguishing these entities, all of which may be B-cell rich and may have associated sclerosis, can be difficult. In addition, the proportion that represents IgG4-related disease is unknown, and the similarity of MALT lymphomas to primary cutaneous marginal zone lymphoma is uncertain. To address these questions, the clinical, histologic, and immunohistochemical features of 50 benign and malignant breast lymphoplasmacytic infiltrates (10 lymphocytic lobulitis, 1 granulomatous, 19 not otherwise specified, 20 MALT lymphomas) were evaluated. Compared with the MALT lymphomas, benign cases had a less dense infiltrate (P < .001), fewer but more histologically apparent germinal centers (P < .001), and more marked fibrosis (P < .0001). Greater than 60% B cells were present in 23% (7/30) benign cases versus 75% (15/20) MALT lymphomas (P = .0003). Plasma cells were predominantly IgG+ in 83% (24/29) benign cases and predominantly IgM+ in 73% (14/19) MALT lymphomas (P < .0001). None of the benign cases had greater than 50 IgG4+ plasma cells/high-power field, and only 1 lymphocytic lobulitis case had an IgG4/IgG ratio exceeding 40% and no clinical evidence for extramammary IgG4-related disease. Although there may be some overlapping features, routine histopathology together with limited immunohistochemical stains can distinguish benign from neoplastic lymphoplasmacytic infiltrates in the breast. Despite frequent sclerosis, the breast is not a common site of unrecognized IgG4-related sclerosing disease. Although there are similarities, breast MALT lymphomas can be separated from cutaneous marginal zone lymphoma.
What constrains the geographic and host range of the rhizocephalan Loxothylacus texanus in the wild

In the Gulf of Mexico, the rhizocephalan barnacle Loxothylacus texanus parasitizes members of the genus Callinectes. In the past, research has primarily focused on the interaction between L. texanus and its blue crab host Callinectes sapidus. Only recently investigators have begun to examine the association that this parasite shares with other Gulf of Mexico hosts and little is known about interactions outside of the Gulf of Mexico. In the current study, settlement of L. texanus on a variety of potential hosts was examined. Settlement of L. texanus occurred not only on C. sapidus but also on the congener Callinectes similis, the grapsid Sesarma cinereum and the xanthid Rhithropanopeus harrisii collected from the Gulf of Mexico. L. texanus also settled on C. sapidus from Delaware Bay and Callinectes ornatus from Brazil. A carbohydrate-based cue appears to be the trigger for settlement in all cases. These results suggest that larval settlement may not play as important a role in determining host specificity as is often assumed. In fact, this type of nonspecific settlement may over evolutionary time lead to establishment of the parasite on new host species. Other factors such as physical barriers and immune response may aid in the control of such parasitic infections.
Optimal battery sizing for storm-resilient photovoltaic power island systems

Abstract Photovoltaic systems with battery storage are analyzed from the perspective that they can operate as a local power island in circumstances of storm-damage or other grid outage. The specific focus is to determine the optimal battery size for a given solar array size, taking into account reasonable day-to-day and seasonal sunlight variations as well as efficiency losses when converting from DC to AC for connection to the grid, or for provision of power during island mode. Three locations in the United States are used as case studies (Newark NJ, Boulder CO, and Tucson AZ). These provide a wide range of sunlight characteristics and illustrate variability factors that will be similar to many locations in continental North America. The analysis of the probability distributions for sunlight brightness then allow for the establishment of a 95% confidence rating for the steady-state power output from a specific combined battery and solar array configuration when faced with a grid interruption. This rating system can be used as a guide for designing systems for future installation.
HYDROPULSE: A MULTIPURPOSE SYSTEM FOR OCULAR MICROSURGERY

MANY microsurgical mechanical devices have recently been introduced in ophthalmic microsurgery to remove cataracts, opacified vitreous, and membranous material through a small incision.1 n Each of these instruments has been designed primarily for one specific purpose. The HydroPulse system is capable of performing many functions in ophthalmic microsurgery that previously required the use of several separate machines.
Finite temperature induced fermion number for quarks in a chiral field

We compute the finite temperature correction to the induced fermion number for fermions coupled to a static SU(2) chiral background, using the derivative expansion technique. At zero temperature the induced fermion number is topological, being the winding number of the chiral background. At finite temperature, however, higher order terms in the derivative expansion give nontopological corrections to the winding number. We use this result to show that the standard cancellation of the fractional parts of the fermion number inside and outside the bag in an SU(2) x SU(2) hybrid chiral bag model of the nucleon does not occur at nonzero temperature.
The Role of Learning Tasks on Attitude Change Using Cognitive Flexibility Hypertext Systems

In this study, the authors examined the impact of task assignment on the effectiveness of a Web-based experiential exercise based on cognitive flexibility theory to enlighten learner attitudes toward the ill-structured topic of sexual harassment. In the research study, we sought to shed light on the use of a cognitive flexibility approach when measuring attitude changes. Specifically, in this study, we examined whether a learning task assigned to the learner impacts his or her attitude toward the emotionally charged and complex topic of sexual harassment. Results suggest a task need to be carefully constructed so that learners may adapt their attitudes toward sexual harassment.
Perinatal development of 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl coenzyme a reductase activity in rat lung, liver and brain

The developmental pattern of microsomal 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (EC 1.1.1.34), which catalyzes the rate-limiting step of cholesterol biosynthesis, was studied in lung, liver and brain of Sprague-Dawley rats. Each tissue exhibited a distinet pattern. Reductase activity in the fetal lung reached a peak at 19 days of gestation, which corresponds to the onset of active surfactant production. This observation is consistent with the suggestion that the fetal lung synthesizes all surfactant components including cholesterol. In the liver, reductase activity varied in a reciprocal fashion with serum cholesterol levels. The peak of brain reductase activity occurred at 3 days after birth at the onset of rapid brain growth despite rapidly rising serum cholesterol levels.
On comparability of structures

Abstract The problem of comparability of structures and functions defined on structures is considered following the early work of Muirhead (confined to integral parametrization) and more modern generalization of Karamata. The basis of such comparabilities is the set of inequalities which when satisfied permit one to establish a relative order (importance) of the structures or associated functions. Chemical illustrations are given for both, Muirhead and Karamata inequalities. It is outlined how to go beyond the partial ordering in such comparison when additional information on the trends among the parameters involved is available.
Tocopherols in runner and virginia peanut cultivars at various maturity stages

Alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta-tocopherol (α-T, β-T, γ-T and σ-T) were determined in peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) cultivars Florunner, Sunrunner, Southern Runner, AT-127, GK-7, NC-7, NC-9 and GK-3. There were significant differences in tocopherol content among runner- and virginia-type peanut cultivars, and these differences were affected by the degree of maturation. α-T decreased with maturation for all of the cultivars except Florunner. γ-T increased with maturation for GK-7, NC-9 and GK-3 but decreased for Florunner. For the mature nuts, Florunner and NC-9 had the highest levels of α-T while GK-3 and Southern Runner had the lowest levels. GK-7 and Sunrunner had the highest levels of γ-T, while the lowest levels were in Florunner and GK-3.
Special pattern of widespread neuroblastoma with a favourable prognosis.

Abstract There is a group of children with disseminated neuroblastoma with a surprisingly good prognosis. Patients who fit the syndrome can have widespread disease in the liver, skin, and bone-marrow, or any combination of these. The primary tumour in some may be relatively small. 21 of 25 such patients (84%) survived for two years or longer. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy may not be necessary in the management of certain children with this syndrome.
Metadata for digital libraries: architecture and design rationale

In a distributed, heterogeneous, proxy-based digital library, autonomous services and collections are accessed indirectly via proxies. To facilitate metadata compatibility and interoperability in such a digital library, we have designed a metadata architecture that includes four basic component classes: attribute model proxies, attribute model translators, metadata facilities for search proxies, and metadata repositories. Attribute model proxies elevate both attribute sets and the attributes they define to first-class objects. They also allow relationships among attributes to be captured. Attribute model translators map attributes and attribute values from one attribute model to another (where posMetadata facilities for search proxies provide structured descriptions both of the collections to which the search proxies provide access and of the search capabilities of the proxies. Finally, metadata repositories accumulate selected metadata from local instances of the other three component classes in order to facilitate global metadata queries and local metadata caching. In this paper, we outline further the roles of these component classes, discuss our design rationale, and analyze related work. Keywords: Metadata architecture, interoperability, attribute model, attribute model translation, metadata repository, InfoBus, proxy architecture, heterogeneity, digital libraries, CORBA.
Infrared spectroscopic study of catalytic oxidation reactions over cobalt oxide under steady-state conditions

Abstract An infrared spectroscopic study of the catalyzed CO and hydrocarbon (HC) oxidation reactions over cobalt oxide was carried out under static conditions, and the catalyzed CO oxidation reaction under steady-state conditions. The reactions proceed principally via surface carbonate groups. The source of the oxygen required to form the surface carbonates is the surface of the cobalt oxide. This oxygen is replenished from gas phase oxygen. Under steady-state reaction conditions changes in the surface concentrations of these groups are observed when the CO feed concentration is changed. Concurrent measurements of the background transmission were used to determine the state of oxidation of the cobalt oxide under the reaction conditions, which demonstrated that the cobalt oxide goes through an oxidation-reduction cycle when functioning as an oxidation catalyst.
Whither Social-Political Development in the Emerging Nations?

During the 1970's many countries and international and private organizations generally adopted a new philosophy to guide development in the emerging nations, primarily to give more direct benefits to the poorest people in the poorest nations. Central to this approach is an effort to achieve a minimum standard of living for all peopes by the end of the Twentieth Century. The main arguments for this strategy are to improve the economic condition and contribution of the poor, to avoid political problems stemming from poverty, and to promote the observance of basic human rights. These objectives are laudable, but economic progress is likely to fall short of aspirations and not only fail to alleviate but even exacerbate tensions arising from ethnic, ideological, class, regional and other differences. In this paper I urge that more attention be given to promoting 1) better mobilization of all major groups to serve their own interests more effectively and 2) better linkage among such groups to advance more adequate communication and conciliation. Taking both steps should facilitate the new “bottom-up” strategy and also cope with some of its limitations.
Predictability of RO/UF performance from surface force parameters and data on average pore size and pore size distribution on membrane surface

Abstract The equilibrium coefficient of organic solutes between interfacial water and bulk water phases obtained from liquid chromatography experiments is related to the structure of the solute molecule and the repeating unit of the polymer. The equilibrium coefficient is further related to the force constants associated with the interaction forces, such as steric effect and the van der Waals force, working between polymer surface and the solute molecule. The force constants, together with the pore size and the pore size distribution, enable one to predict the reverse osmosis and ultrafiltration performance data.
Hydrophobicity of contact surface induces appressorium formation in Magnaporthe grisea

Infection by Magnaporthe grisea, the causal agent of rice blast, requires the formation of a melanized, dome-shaped infection cell, called an appressorium. Little is known about the signals and mechanisms regulating this important developmental process. We have previously observed a correlation between hydrophobicity of the contact surface and appressorium formation. To evaluate this thigmotropic response more precisely, we measured appressorium formation on the surfaces of silicon wafers modified to create various degrees of hydrophobicity. We also examined the effects of artificial ridges created on polystyrene surfaces. Hydrophobic surfaces induced a high level of appressorium formation, whereas hydrophilic surfaces did not. Tips of germ-tubes did not respond to ridges of any particular height, but formed appressoria in a random manner. These results indicate that hydrophobicity of the substratum is a primary determinant and is sufficient to induce appressorium formation in M. grisea.
Peroxynitrite Inactivates Tryptophan Hydroxylase via Sulfhydryl Oxidation COINCIDENT NITRATION OF ENZYME TYROSYL RESIDUES HAS MINIMAL IMPACT ON CATALYTIC ACTIVITY

Abstract Tryptophan hydroxylase, the initial and rate-limiting enzyme in serotonin biosynthesis, is inactivated by peroxynitrite in a concentration-dependent manner. This effect is prevented by molecules that react directly with peroxynitrite such as dithiothreitol, cysteine, glutathione, methionine, tryptophan, and uric acid but not by scavengers of superoxide (superoxide dismutase), hydroxyl radical (Me2SO, mannitol), and hydrogen peroxide (catalase). Assuming simple competition kinetics between peroxynitrite scavengers and the enzyme, a second-order rate constant of 3.4 × 104 m −1s−1 at 25 °C and pH 7.4 was estimated. The peroxynitrite-induced loss of enzyme activity was accompanied by a concentration-dependent oxidation of protein sulfhydryl groups. Peroxynitrite-modified tryptophan hydroxylase was resistant to reduction by arsenite, borohydride, and dithiothreitol, suggesting that sulfhydryls were oxidized beyond sulfenic acid. Peroxynitrite also caused the nitration of tyrosyl residues in tryptophan hydroxylase, with a maximal modification of 3.8 tyrosines/monomer. Sodium bicarbonate protected tryptophan hydroxylase from peroxynitrite-induced inactivation and lessened the extent of sulfhydryl oxidation while causing a 2-fold increase in tyrosine nitration. Tetranitromethane, which oxidizes sulfhydryls at pH 6 or 8, but which nitrates tyrosyl residues at pH 8 only, inhibited tryptophan hydroxylase equally at either pH. Acetylation of tyrosyl residues withN-acetylimidazole did not alter tryptophan hydroxylase activity. These data suggest that peroxynitrite inactivates tryptophan hydroxylase via sulfhydryl oxidation. Modification of tyrosyl residues by peroxynitrite plays a relatively minor role in the inhibition of tryptophan hydroxylase catalytic activity.
Congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation connected to an extralobar pulmonary sequestration in the contralateral chest: Common origin?

Extralobar pulmonary sequestration (ELS) and congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation have been reported to coexist in several variations. This suggests a common embryologic origin. A 6-month-old boy presented with a history of recurrent pneumonias. The patient was diagnosed with a right lower lobe congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation (CCAM) and a left lower lobe ELS/CCAM. The diagnosis was made with the aid of a multidetector computed tomography (CT). Three-dimensional CT reconstruction showed the presence of a right lower lobe CCAM, a left lower ELS with an aberrant arterial supply from the celiac axis, and possible venous drainage into the right CCAM. The patient underwent a right thoracotomy. Intraoperatively, the lesions were discovered to be connected by a band of tissue. The right lower lobe CCAM and the left ELS were removed from the right chest. Histologic analysis confirmed the presence of a CCAM within the right lower lobe. The ELS had involvement of a type II CCAM within the sequestration. The connection between the right CCAM and left ELS/CCAM showed an anomalous conducting airway, anomalous vein, and anomalous artery connecting the 2 lesions. The authors present the first case of a CCAM connected to an ELS/CCAM in the contralateral hemithorax. The unique anatomic configuration of these lesions suggests a common embryologic origin of ELS and CCAM.
Sexing and detection of gene construct in microinjected bovine blastocysts using the polymerase chain reaction.

We present a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based procedure for rapid bovine embryo sexing and classifying embryos for the presence of exogenous DNA. Fourteen bovine blastocysts microinjected with gene construct DNA at the pronuclear stage were divided into quarters and subjected to amplification with construct-specific and sex gene-specific (ZFY/ZFX) primers in the same initial PCR reaction. Blastocysts carrying microinjected construct DNA could be identified by the presence of construct-specific PCR product in approximately 4 h. Approximately half of the microinjected and two of 16 non-microinjected blastocysts typed PCR-positive for the construct DNA. Owing to erroneous amplifications in the two non-microinjected control blastocysts, and the inability of the system to distinguish integrated from non-integrated copies of the microinjected construct, the number of construct-positive blastocysts determined in our assay most likely overestimates the number of true transgenic embryos. Nevertheless, using this assay, we were able to determine that approximately half of the microinjected embryos were negative for the transgene construct and thus could be eliminated from transfer to a recipient cow. Embryo sexing was achieved in less than 6 h by restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis of nestedZFY/ZFXPCR products reamplified from initial PCR reactions. In 11/14 microinjected blastocysts all sections assayed unambiguously as the same sex. In one embryo, only one section was analysed, while two other blastocysts whowed some discrepancies of sexing results between the sections analysed. The approach employed here to determine the sex and presence of microinjected construct DNA in bovine preimplantation embryos is rapid, accurate among different sections of an embryo and can be used to increase the efficiency of current transgenic cattle production procedures.
On few-view tomographic reconstruction with megavoltage photon beams.

Currently portalimaging devices are used to obtain information on patient localization during radiation therapytreatments. Such obtained information is two dimensional in nature, limited to the plane of the captured image. It has been proposed that megavoltage computed tomographyimages be reconstructed to overcome this limitation. This study explores the feasibility of reconstructing tomographic images from fan-beam projection data acquired with a commercial portalimaging device on a standard radiotherapylinear accelerator. Several CTreconstruction algorithms are examined as to their performance and suitability for applications in radiation therapy verification. The results show that it is possible, using some of the iterative reconstruction techniques, to obtain an image useful for patient localization from only several (⩽10) projection views.
Recolonization by Warmwater Fishes and Crayfishes after Severe Drought in Upper Coastal Plain Hill Streams

Abstract Extreme hydrologic disturbance, such as a supraseasonal drought, can dramatically influence aquatic communities. Documentation of the responses of aquatic communities after such disturbances provides insight into the timing, order, and mechanisms of recolonization. Postdisturbance recolonization of streams depends on many factors, including the region and characteristics of the disturbance relative to the disturbance regime. A supraseasonal drought that ended in the fall of 2000 resulted in the desiccation of numerous small streams or stream segments in northern Mississippi that were normally perennial. We repeatedly sampled fish and crayfish during predrought and postdrought periods in seven stream reaches that dried and five that remained flowing during the drought. From immediately after the drought until early summer of 2001, postdrought fish and crayfish assemblages differed from predrought assemblages in dry sites but not in flowing sites. The initially slow recolonization rates increased c...
Long-Term Profile Stability of the Kuder Occupational Interest Survey

Profile stability of the Kuder Occupational Interest Survey (1966) for 729 persons was assessed by computing rank order correlations between the sets of scales on two profiles obtained 12 or 19 years apart, with first administrations at five different ages from 13 to 20. Median rhos varied from just over .40 for the youngest to near .80 for the oldest age at administration. Reliabilities were generally better for the male-normed than female-normed scales, and the difference between 12 and 19 year intervals was slight. These figures are comparable with similar reliabilities reported for the Strong Vocational Interest Blank, the only other interest inventory reporting long term reliability.
Effects of central administration of distinct fatty acids on hypothalamic neuropeptide expression and energy metabolism.

Effects of central administration of distinct fatty acids on hypothalamic neuropeptide expression and energy metabolism
The Construction and Development of Comprehensive Test Centre Based on Real Transmission Line

Galloping of overhead transmission line is a low-frequency, large amplitude, wind-induced vibrations of both single and bundle of overhead transmission lines, which have been one of the largest threaten for the security and stability of power grid operation. On account of the uncertainty and probability of galloping events happening, most of the study on transmission line galloping had still stayed on simulation or model test, only less of the study were in accordance with the accident records on-site. Several ten years study on conductor galloping had been proved that the laboratory built on real transmission line was the essential foundation and the effective condition for the systemic study on galloping. Comprehensive Test Centre based on Real Transmission Line (CTC for short) is the first laboratory focus on the study of conductor galloping and ice-accretion. whose content of tower type,conductor arrangement and transmission line length, currently have been the most abundant in worldwide. The establishment of the Comprehensive test centre have been very important on promoting the fundamental and systemic study in the relative field. Since the frequent conductor galloping under the condition of natural climate achieved successfully, CTC have developed several essential and valuable scientific projects. In this paper, CTC would be introduced from the aspects of basic facilities configuration, mainly function design and implementation, focal capabilities and some study outcomes at moment.
Extreme Ultraviolet Explorer Observations of OY Carinae in Superoutburst

The Extreme Ultraviolet Explorer (EUVE) satellite was used for three days beginning on 1997 March 26.96 UT to obtain photometric and spectroscopic observations of the eclipsing SU UMa-type dwarf nova OY Carinae in superoutburst. Because of the longer time on source (143 ks), the larger number of eclipses observed (17), and the higher count rate in the detector (0.5-2.2 counts s -1), we are able to significantly strengthen previous reports that there is little or no eclipse by the secondary of the EUV emission region of OY Car in superoutburst. The mean EUVE spectrum extends from 70 to 190 A and contains broad (FWHM ≈ 1 A) emission lines of N V, O V-O VI, Ne V-Ne VII, Mg IV-Mg VI, Fe VI-Fe VIII, and possibly Fe XXIII. Good fits of the observed spectrum are obtained with a model (similar to that of Seyfert 2 galaxies) wherein radiation from the boundary layer and accretion disk is scattered into the line of sight by the system's photoionized accretion disk wind. It is possible to trade off continuum luminosity for wind optical depth, but reasonable models have a boundary layer temperature Tbl ≈ 90-130 kK and a boundary layer and accretion disk luminosity Lbl = Ldisk 4 × 1034 ergs s-1 ≈ 10 L☉ corresponding to a mass accretion rate a 10-8 M☉ yr-1; an absorbing column density NH ≈ 1.6-3.5 × 1019 cm-2; and a wind mass-loss rate w 10-10 M☉ yr-1 ≈ 0.01a. Because radiation pressure alone falls an order of magnitude short of driving such a wind, magnetic forces must also play a role in driving the wind of OY Car in superoutburst.
Design Of A Fiber-Optic Laser Scanning System For A Smectic Liquid Crystal Display

AbstractThis paper describes the design of a system that scans an array of GaAs laser beams over a thermally- addressed smectic liquid crystal cell. The cell is projected onto a 1 m square screen to create a very- high -resolution storage display (8000x8000 pels). The scanning system chosen to achieve this high resolution image uses optical fibers to couple the outputof 32 GaAs lasers into a two -column array. The array is imaged onto the LC cell by a small plastic lenswhich, along with the fiber array, is scanned over the area of the cell by a linear X -Y mechanism.The performance and limitations of this addressing method will be discussed and compared with those of alternate multi -beam systems. IntroductionThe use of GaAs lasers to write on a thermally- addressed liquid crystal (LC) cell and create a high - resolution projection storage display has been under investigation for several years [1 -3]. In early work C1]a single multi -mode laser junction was imaged at 1:1 with low numerical aperture optics onto the cell, andscanned over a 5 mm square area by a pair of galvo mirrors. This gave a 500x500 picture -element (pel)
A multivariable auto-tuning digital controller for switching power converters

This paper presents an online multivariable auto-tuning digital controller for DC-DC switching power converters. In the proposed scheme, all the variables/parameters (i.e. gain, zero(s) and pole(s)) of a digital PID compensator are auto-tuned simultaneously during system operation in order to achieve an optimized compensator that results in improved dynamic performance for a given power converter design. The proposed multivariable auto-tuning scheme is based on observing the time-domain characteristics of the compensated error signal, namely the output of the compensator, and it does not require the accurate knowledge of the power stage parameters and/or the measurement of the control loop frequency response. Experimental results are presented in order to illustrate and verify the multivariable auto-tuning scheme.
Identification of Errors in Power Flow Controller Parameters

Transmission open access allows power transactions to take place between remote parts of an interconnected system. As a result, some parts of the transmission system may experience unusual power flows during certain power transactions. One way to circumvent possible congestion is to use power flow control devices. These devices which are also referred as Flexible AC Transmission System (FACTS) devices, allow re-routing of power flows in the system. The amount of power flowing through such a device can be controlled via device parameters. Hence, proper monitoring of these parameters is important for reliable operation and system security. In this paper, an identification method for detecting and identifying errors associated with power controller parameters will be presented. The method is based on the available measurements such as the power flows and injections which are used by the state estimators at the control center. Hence, the method can be implemented easily as part of the existing energy management functions.
Do cigarette taxes affect children's body mass index? The effect of household environment on health

Several recent studies demonstrate a positive effect of cigarette prices and taxes on obesity among adults, especially those who smoke. If higher cigarette costs affect smokers' weights by increasing calories consumed or increasing food expenditures, then cigarette taxes and prices may also affect obesity in children of smokers. This study examines the link between child body mass index (BMI) and obesity status and cigarette costs using data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth-79 (NLSY79). Controlling for various child, mother, and household characteristics as well as child-fixed effects, I find that cigarette taxes and prices increase BMI in the children of smoking mothers. Interestingly, and unlike previous research findings for adults, higher cigarette taxes do not increase the likelihood of obesity in children. These findings are consistent with a causal mechanism in which higher cigarette costs reduce smoking and increase food expenditures and consumption in the household. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pancreatic duct stent insertion for functional smoldering pancreatitis.

Abstract Background: Some patients with smoldering pancreatitis in the absence of necrosis, pseudocyst, and ductal disruption experience unremitting abdominal pain caused by persistent pancreatic inflammation. Experience with the use of pancreatic duct stents in this patient population was reviewed. Patients and Methods: Data for 11 patients with smoldering pancreatitis who underwent ERCP with pancreatic duct stent placement were reviewed retrospectively. All patients had severe, daily pain that worsened with ingestion of food, had required narcotic analgesics for control of pain, had lost weight, and had persistently elevated serum levels of pancreatic enzymes as well as pancreatic inflammatory changes on CT (without necrosis or pseudocyst). Six patients were being treated with parenteral nutrition. Observations: The mean duration of symptoms from the onset of pancreatitis until pancreatic duct stent insertion was 74 days (range 14-151 days). Stents were placed for a mean of 7 weeks (range 2-19 weeks). Pancreatic stent placement provided permanent pain relief in 10 (91%) patients within a mean of 9 days (range 3-20 days); one patient had persistent symptoms requiring celiac plexus blockade after 5 months. Parenteral nutrition and treatment with narcotic agents were discontinued for 10 patients within a mean of 15 days (range 7-39 days) after pancreatic duct insertion. Conclusions: Smoldering pancreatitis may result from functional obstruction, possibly caused by edema or spasm, of the papillary orifice. Insertion of a stent into the pancreatic duct alleviates pain, enables early resumption of oral intake of food, and facilitates pancreatic duct drainage. It also may help to prevent complications arising from persistent pancreatic inflammation.
Insights from an erroneous kinetochore-microtubule attachment state

Faithful distribution of the genome requires that sister kinetochores, which assemble on each chromatid during cell division, interact with dynamic microtubules from opposite spindle poles in a configuration called chromosome biorientation. Biorientation produces tension that increases the affinity of kinetochores for microtubules via ill-defined mechanisms. Non-bioriented kinetochore-microtubule (kt-MT) interactions are prevalent but short-lived due to an error correction pathway that reduces the affinity of kinetochores for microtubules. Interestingly, incorrect kt-MT interactions can be stabilized by experimentally applying force to misoriented chromosomes. Here, a live-cell force assay is utilized to characterize the molecular composition of a common type of improper kt-MT attachment. Our force-related studies are also discussed in the context of current models for tension-dependent stabilization of kt-MT interactions.
DnaK ATPase activity revisited.

It has recently been reported that the ATPase activity of DnaK, a 70 kDa heat shock protein from E. Coli, is autostimulated by increasing protein concentration [(1993) FEBS Lett. 322, 277-279], suggesting that the DnaK dimer may be the enzymatically active species. In this paper we investigated the ATPase activity of different DnaK preparations; we found that the turnover number was very dependent on protein purification. With HPLC-purified DnaK we found a turnover number 20- to 50-fold lower than typical values previously published and no evidence of autostimulation, indicating that the monomer is the active species.
The orbits and masses of satellites of Pluto

Abstract We present the numerically integrated orbits of Pluto’s satellites. The orbits have been fit to a data set that includes Earth-based and Hubble Space Telescope (HST) astrometry of Charon, Nix, Hydra, Kerberos, and Styx, as well as the lightcurves from the Pluto–Charon mutual events. We also report new, 2010–2012 HST astrometry of all satellites including recently discovered Styx plus a pre-discovery detection of Kerberos in 2006. Pluto-relative data sets have been corrected for the center-of-light vs. center-of-mass offsets with the Pluto albedo model. The results are summarized in terms of the postfit residuals, state vectors, and mean orbital elements. Orbits of Charon, Styx, Nix, and Kerberos are nearly circular, while Hydra’s shows a small eccentricity. All satellites are in near-resonance conditions, but we did not uncover any resonant arguments. Our model yields 975.5 ± 1.5 km 3 s −2 , 869.6 ± 1.8 km 3 s −2 , and 105.9 ± 1.0 km 3 s −2 for the system’s, Pluto’s, and Charon’s GM values. The uncertainties reflect both systematic and random measurement errors. The GM values imply a bulk density of 1.89 ± 0.06 g cm −3 for Pluto and 1.72 ± 0.02 g cm −3 for Charon. We also obtain GM Nix = 0.0030 ± 0.0027 km 3 s −2 GM Hydra = 0.0032 ± 0.0028 km 3 s −2 , GM Kerberos = 0.0011 ± 0.0006 km 3 s −2 , and an upper bound on Styx’s GM of 0.0010 km 3 s −2 . The 1 σ errors are based on the formal covariance from the fit and they reflect only measurement errors. In-orbit (or along the track), radial, and out-of-plane orbital uncertainties at the time of New Horizons encounter are on the order of few tens of km or less for Charon, Nix, and Hydra. Kerberos and Styx have their largest uncertainty component of ∼140 km and ∼500 km respectively in the in-orbit direction.
Laser-induced fluorescence of pyrene and other polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in seawater.

Abstract Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in the marine environment are currently of great concern due to their potential carcinogenicity. The standard methods of detection and quantification of PAH in seawater and sediments are costly, time-consuming and do not account for the heterogeneous nature of their distribution and sources. Laser-induced, time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy may help to overcome these limitations. Several PAH have relatively long-lived stimulated fluorescence emissions, which allow them to be detected among a background of more intense but shorter-lived chromophores. Using time-delayed techniques we have shown an ability to detect PAH, principally pyrene, at environmental levels (ng l −1 ) both in the laboratory and in situ in Boston Harbor and other study areas. Further development may lead to the rapid determination of several PAH in typical near-shore marine environments.
Maternal corticosterone reduces egg fertility and hatchability and increases the numbers of early dead embryos in eggs laid by quail hens selected for exaggerated adrenocortical stress responsiveness

Quail hens selected for exaggerated (HS, high stress) rather than reduced (LS, low stress) plasma corticosterone (B) response to brief restraint deposit more B into their egg yolks than do LS hens. Female progeny of HS hens implanted with B also show reduced egg production when compared with female offspring of LS- and HS-control and LS-B-implanted hens. Herein, LS and HS hens were implanted (s.c.) with empty (controls, CON) or B-filled silastic tubes to assess the interactive influences of maternal B-treatment with quail stress line on egg fertility (FERT), total egg hatchability (TOTHATCH) and fertile egg hatchability, and the percentages of embryonic mortality (early dead, ED; late dead) and pipped eggs. Mean FERT was dramatically reduced in eggs of HS compared with LS hens and B-implanted compared with CON-treated hens (P HS-CON > HS-B. In addition, TOTHATCH was also affected by line (LS > HS; P B-implant; P HS-B. Fertile egg hatchability was reduced (P < 0.05) in HS-B-treated hen eggs when compared with LS-B and HS-CON hen eggs and more (P < 0.05) ED embryos were found in eggs laid by HS-B-implanted hens than in any other treatment group. Late dead and pipped egg percentages were unaffected by any treatment. The findings are important to avian geneticists because they further emphasize the benefits that selection for reduced adrenocortical responsiveness has on hen reproductive performance. The maternal B findings also warn poultry and hatchery managers that unless hen stress during egg formation is avoided, negative consequences in FERT, TOTHATCH, and ED can result, particularly in hens genetically predisposed toward exaggerated adrenal stress responsiveness.
Photodisintegration of the Lightest Nuclei

It is shown that for nuclei in which the ground state wave function is symmetric in the space coordinates of all the nucleons, such as ${\mathrm{H}}^{2}$, ${\mathrm{H}}^{3}$, ${\mathrm{He}}^{3}$, ${\mathrm{He}}^{4}$, the integrated bremsstrahlung-weighted cross section for electric dipole absorption is simply related to the mean-square radius of the nucleus, independent of the existence of correlations between the motions of the nucleons. This relationship was first derived by Levinger and Bethe on the assumption of absence of correlation, and was found to be at variance with known experimental results in heavy nuclei. Experimentally, the relationship is well verified by data on ${\mathrm{H}}^{2}$ and ${\mathrm{He}}^{4}$. The relationship of the integrated bremsstrahlung-weighted cross section to certain nuclear parameters in the case of ${\mathrm{Li}}^{6}$ is briefly discussed.
Automated Mission Analysis by Markov Chain Techniques

A method of estimating the probabilities of availability and dependability, and of showing the effect of maintainability and reliability on cost effectiveness is developed through the use of Markov Chain techniques. Any system may be subjected to one or many mission profiles in its life cycle. The mission profile consists of a number of events where an event is defined as a state which describes the operational status and environmental stresses imposed on the system. Inputs required for this model include failure rates, operational status modifiers, environmental stress modifiers, mean time to repair, and mission events. Outputs of this model are: 1) the probabilities of successfully surviving each sequential mission event, 2) the system availability at any time during the mission, 3) the system dependability, and 4) the logistics required for the system for any time period during the mission profile. An example of one application of this technique to a missile system includes a typical mission profile for a ship-based surface-to-air missile. The method of formulating the problem and the results of an actual computer solution of the Markov Chain Model are given.
Spectroscopic studies of the effects of selenate and selenite on cobalt sorption to γ-Al2O3

The fate and transport of toxic metal ions and radionuclides in the environment is often controlled by sorption reactions. The extent of sorption of divalent metal cations is controlled by a number of factors including the presence of cosorbing or complexing ligands. To study the impact of anion cosorption on metal cation sorption behavior, Co(II) sorption to γ-Al2O3 in the presence of selenium oxyanions was investigated. To aid in the interpretation of macroscopic sorption results, X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) experiments were conducted on single and bisorbate samples where the Co(II) surface coverage of the bisorbate sample was greater than or equal to the single sorbate sample. XAS data for single sorbate Co(II) samples were consistent with reported spectra of Co(II)-Al(III) layered double hydroxides (LDHs), indicating coprecipitates are forming in these samples. Comparison of data from single and bisorbate samples showed a decrease in the number of nearest neighbor cobalt atoms in the presence ...
The Value of Integration: A U.S. Perspective

The integration of humanitarian action into intervention operations, and particularly the inclusion of a military component, carries risks—but none so great as to be worth sacrificing integration on the altar of humanitarian purity. As in the case of Iraq in the first, emergency phase of an operation, humanitarian teams working closely with the combat troops can greatly reduce civilian suffering caused by shock, displacement, and lack of access to necessities of daily life. In the transition phase, as the military begins to turn over power to an independent political authority, integration of development teams is likewise important. Integration in the interest of humanity is no vice. Humanitarian exclusivity in the interest of purity is no virtue.
Molecular Diversity of K+ Channels

K+ channel principal subunits are by far the largest and most diverse of the ion channels. This diversity originates partly from the large number of genes coding for K+ channel principal subunits, but also from other processes such as alternative splicing, generating multiple mRNA transcripts from a single gene, heteromeric assembly of different principal subunits, as well as possible RNA editing and posttranslational modifications. In this chapter, we attempt to give an overview (mostly in tabular format) of the different genes coding for K+ channel principal and accessory subunits and their genealogical relationships. We discuss the possible correlation of different principal subunits with native K+ channels, the biophysical and pharmacological properties of channels formed when principal subunits are expressed in heterologous expression systems, and their patterns of tissue expression. In addition, we devote a section to describing how diversity of K+ channels can be conferred by heteromultimer formation, accessory subunits, alternative splicing, RNA editing and posttranslational modifications. We trust that this collection of facts will be of use to those attempting to compare the properties of new subunits to the properties of others already known or to those interested in a comparison between native channels and cloned candidates.
SPOT: using collaborative technologies for developing collaborative technologies

The SPOT project applies emerging collaborative tools and techniques to assist in the development of such tools. The Software Development Group (SDG) of National Center for Supercomputing Applications (NCSA) is developing several frameworks for deploying tools as collaborative applications. SPOT exercises SDG's collaborative frameworks while creating a collaborative project management tool. This tool makes visible the goals, activities, and the status of the various projects within the organization. This includes explicating the various competencies and responsibilities of the people within the organization. To be effective, collaborative technologies need to support fluidly defined groups by making visible the activities and structure of the group in an accessible manner. SPOT attempts to achieve this by bringing together emerging concepts from computer science, cognitive systems engineering, and social sciences. We describe our use of a task-focused approach that makes heavy use of end-user participation from work-study surveys through early paper prototype evaluation to iterative prototyping. SPOT is an interdisciplinary project between cognitive systems engineering and speech communications. Our combined perspectives enable our team to combine organizational modeling techniques with cognitive engineering principles to mutually inform the design and enhance the practical utility of the evolving software product.
Twenty-nine months of geomorphic change in upper Monterey Canyon (2002-2005)

Abstract Time serial multibeam bathymetry is used to evaluate geomorphic trends and submarine processes in the upper 4 km of Monterey Canyon, California. Seven high-resolution bathymetric surveys conducted between September 2002 to February 2005 show that the upper canyon axis and head grew in volume 1 000 000 m3 ± 700 000 m3, at an average annual rate of 400 000 m3/a ± 300 000 m3/a through lateral erosion and vertical incision. This net loss of substrate during the 29-month period is parsed between local erosion of 1 400 000 m3 and local deposition of 350 000 m3. A submarine landslide with a scar void volume of 70 000 m3 and debris pile of 52 000 m3 occurred between March 2003 and September 2004. During the subsequent months until February 2005, the slide scar grew 40% in volume while the debris pile shrank by 80%. The canyon-head rim adjacent to Moss Landing Harbor prograded seaward and retreated shoreward significantly (up to 50 m) during the study suggesting frequent episodes of sediment build up and subsequent down-canyon failure. A large field of sand waves located in the channel axis was completely reworked in each time series except for a 24 h period where no wave crest movement was noted, and a 32 day period where up-canyon migration of approximately 7 m was recorded in the northern tributary.
Clinical Practice Guidelines in nephrology—for worse or for better

Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs)* (throughout the text, terms marked with an asterisk are defined in Table 1 in alphabetical order) [1] have become important tools in shaping the care of individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD). CPGs inform patient care, scientific debate, research agendas and policies. At the same time, CPGs have been criticized for restricting the care provided by physicians to patients. This article is intended as a review of selected topics related to guideline development and its application in nephrology, which ultimately aim at informing decision making and improving the quality of care.