cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Microwave frequency division using transferred-electron devices

Transferred-electron devices (t.e.d.s), when biased above threshold (Vth) exhibit transit-time or circuit-controlled oscillations. This property of t.e.d.s is used to achieve dynamic division at microwave frequencies. The device is biased at 0.9?0.95 Vth using a d.c. power source, and an input signal of 0.1?0.3 Vth, is used to raise the device bias above threshold level. The division occurs when the input frequency is an integral multiple of the oscillator frequency. We observed dynamic division by 2, 3 and 4 with the output frequency 4.0 GHz. The bandwidth for division by two is 560 MHz referred to the input.
Synthesis and folding of a mirror-image enzyme reveals ambidextrous chaperone activity

Mirror-image proteins (composed of d-amino acids) are promising therapeutic agents and drug discovery tools, but as synthesis of larger d-proteins becomes feasible, a major anticipated challenge is the folding of these proteins into their active conformations. In vivo, many large and/or complex proteins require chaperones like GroEL/ES to prevent misfolding and produce functional protein. The ability of chaperones to fold d-proteins is unknown. Here we examine the ability of GroEL/ES to fold a synthetic d-protein. We report the total chemical synthesis of a 312-residue GroEL/ES-dependent protein, DapA, in both l- and d-chiralities, the longest fully synthetic proteins yet reported. Impressively, GroEL/ES folds both l- and d-DapA. This work extends the limits of chemical protein synthesis, reveals ambidextrous GroEL/ES folding activity, and provides a valuable tool to fold d-proteins for drug development and mirror-image synthetic biology applications.
On the construction and efficiency of staggered numerical differentiators for the wave equation

Finite-difference (FD) techniques have established themselves as viable tools for the numerical modeling of wave propagation. The accuracy and the computational efficiency of numerical modeling can be enhanced by using high-order spatial differential operators (Dablain,1986).
Distribution and Abundance of Anadromous Sea Lamprey Spawners in a Fragmented Stream: Current Status and Potential Range Expansion Following Barrier Removal

Dams fragment watersheds and prevent anadromous fi shes from reaching his- toric spawning habitat. Sedgeunkedunk Stream, a small tributary to the Penobscot River (Maine), has been the focus of efforts to reestablish marine-freshwater connectivity and restore anadromous fi shes via the removal of two barriers to fi sh migration. Currently, Petromyzon marinus (Sea Lamprey) is the only anadromous fi sh known to spawn success- fully in the stream downstream of the lowermost dam. Here, we describe the distribution and abundance of a spawning population of Sea Lamprey in Sedgeunkedunk Stream, prior to and in anticipation of habitat increase after the completion of one barrier removal. In 2008, we estimated the abundance of Sea Lamprey and its nests using daily stream sur- veys and an open-population mark-recapture model. We captured 47 Sea Lamprey and implanted each with a PIT tag so that we could track movements and nest associations of individual fi sh. The spawning migration began on 18 June, and the last living individual was observed on 27 June. We located 31 nests, distributed from head-of-tide to the lower- most dam; no spawners or nests were observed in the tidally infl uenced zone or upstream of this dam. Mean longevity in the stream and the number of nests attended were correlated with arrival date; early migrants were alive longer and attended more nests than later mi- grants. Males were more likely to be observed away from a nest, or attending three or more nests, than were females, which attended usually one or two nests. We observed a negative association between nest abundance and substrate cover by fi ne sediment. Based on their observed movements in the system, and the extent of their habitat use, we anticipate that spawning Sea Lamprey will recolonize formerly inaccessible habitat after dam removals.
Tunable properties of wide-band gap p-type BaCu(Ch1 − xChx′)F (Ch = S, Se, Te) thin-film solid solutions

Abstract Thin-film solid solutions of BaCu(Ch1 − xChx′)F (Ch, Ch′ = S, Se, or Te) wide-band gap p-type semiconductors are obtained by pulsed laser deposition at elevated substrate temperatures from alternating layers of BaCuChF and BaCuCh′F. Adjusting the thickness of the component layers varies the relative chalcogen content, which allows tunability of the film transparency and results in a conductivity change of more than three orders of magnitude. The tunability of the physical properties makes these chalcogen-based semiconductors potentially useful for optoelectronics applications. Lattice parameters of BaCuChF calculated using density functional theory agree with those previously reported for the powders. Deviations from Vegard's law are observed in BaCu(S1 − xSex)F thin films with large sulfur content.
Optical tomography for flow field diagnostics

Abstract Optical tomography has been applied to an off-axis turbulent methane-air free jet to determine the mean methane concentration throughout the mixing region. Optical tomography is a multi-angular absorption technique which involves making M line of sight absorption measurements (projections) at N angles. These M × N measurements are then used to reconstruct the original two-dimensional flow field. Absorption measurements were made on methane using the near resonance 3.39 μm line of a He-Ne laser. Mean concentration measurements were obtained at three positions downstream of the jet exit plane. Comparisons with the results of previous workers for the axial and radial mean concentration profiles show good agreement. Additionally, the sensitivity of the reconstructed results to the number of angles and scans used is briefly described. The results demonstrate the unique capabilities of optical tomography for flow field diagnostics.
Immediate hypersensitivity to penicillins. Studies on Italian subjects

The IgE response, the involvement of the different penicillins available for therapeutic use, and the specificity of the IgE antibodies found in a group of penicillin-allergic subjects from Italy were studied. Thirty subjects with a history of allergic reactions to penicillins were studied. In vivo and in vitro specific IgE antibodies were determined to different penicillin determinants. Fifteen subjects developed anaphylactic responses and the remainder urticaria and angioedema. The drug most frequently involved in the patients' allergic reactions was ampicillin (AMP). The benzylpenicilloyl (BPO) skin test was positive in 16 (53.3%) patients, whereas 23 (76.6%) patients were positive to minor determinant mixture (MDM), benzylpenicillin (PG), AMP, or amoxicillin (AX). When classified according to initial reaction type, most anaphylactic patients (93.3%) were associated with minor determinant reactivity, whereas most urticaria patients (80%) reacted to BPO. RAST results for the anaphylactic and urticaria subgroups were similar. RAST inhibition showed that most sera contained highly cross-reactive IgE antibodies. There was evidence of a specific response to AX and PG (one patient each). These data show that in a population of penicillin-allergic patients from Italy, AMP was the main drug inducing the allergic reaction. In skin tests and RAST, patients exhibited heterogeneous IgE responses with little indication of specific reactivity to AMP.
Metal Oxide Solubility in Eutectic Li/K Carbonate Melts

The equilibrium solubility of NiO, CuO, ZnO, LiFeO/sub 2/, and LaNiO/sub 3/ in binary Li/K carbonate was quantitatively measured between 823 and 1223 K under a simulated molten carbonate fuel cell cathode environment. The solubility of all materials, except LaNiO/sub 3/, was found to increase with increasing temperature. Equilibrium solubilities at 923 K, the operating temperature of a molten carbonate fuel cell, were determined to be 13 X 10/sup -6/, 32 X 10/sup -6/, 63 X 10/sup -6/, and 16 X 10/sup -6/ mole fraction for NiO, CuO, ZnO, and LiFeO/sub 2/, respectively. The LaNiO/sub 3/ solubility remained below the quantitative detection limit until the melt's temperature exceeded 1123 K, at which time material decomposition was detected.
Operative Hörverbesserung Bei Verödetem Mittelohr und Irreversibel Verschlossener Tube (1. Mitteilung)

Durch Implantation eines luftgefiillten Hohlkorpers aus Silastic uber das runde Fenster gelingt es, bei Patienten mit vollig verodeter Pauke und irreversibel verschlossener Tube einen betrachtlichen Horgewinn zu erzielen. Die Methodik wird beschrie-ben und das Ergebnis an 2 Beispielen demonstriert.
Designing Primers with Higher Taxonomic Distinguishability

Current methods of understanding microbiome composition and structure rely on accurately estimating the number species and their relative abundance. Most of these methods require an efficient PCR whose forward and reverse primers bind well to the same, large number of identifiable species, and produce amplicons that are unique. It is therefore not surprising that currently used universal primers designed many years ago are not as efficient and fail to bind to recently cataloged species. We propose an automated general method of designing PCR primer pairs that abide by primer design rules and since the method is automated, primers can be designed for targeted groups of microbial species or updated when a database is updated. In silico experiments and laboratory experiments confirm the efficacy of the newly designed primers for metagenomics applications.
THE ROLE OF STATE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS IN NATIONAL INDUSTRY POLICY

A decade of economic stagnation has produced a plethora of calls for government action to stimulate economic growth in employment. Arguing that activists federal industry policy is likely not to emerge in the United States, Rasmussen and Ledebur examine the potential role of states in a “federalist industry policy.” States presently administer effective programs of financial assistance to business enterprises. These efforts are “rationally parochial” in that their purpose is served equally well by cresting a new job or pirating from other jurisdictions. This paper considers how state programs can be reoriented to serve national growth and development objectives as well as those of specific jurisdictions. It concludes that a subnational industry policy offers a unique opportunity to reallocate existing state resources to achieve a much higher social return.
Hydrogen-induced sustained load cracking in single crystal Fe-3wt.%Si

Summary Sustained load slow crack growth rate in Fe-3wt%Si single crystals was determined to be about 5 × 10 −8 m/s at room temperature in 1 atm gaseous hydrogen. Extensive plastic deformation was observed to accompany crack growth. During crack growth, slip line upsets of about 10 μ m spacing were generated behind the advancing crack tip but the crack advance step size was on the order of 1 μ m. Further investigation to clarify the mechanism is in progress.
Five-Year Survival after Second-Line Cisplatin-Based Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy for Advanced Ovarian Cancer

Abstract Background. To evaluate the 5-year survival rates of second-line intraperitoneal chemotherapy in advanced-staged ovarian cancer. Materials and Methods. Between August 1985 and September 1991, 63 patients with advanced epithelial ovarian cancer received intraperitoneal cisplatin and cytarabine chemotherapy as second-line treatment. Results. The median survival from the time of initiation of intraperitoneal chemotherapy (IPC) was 29.1 months. A significant advantage in 5-year survival (40%) and 5-year progression-free survival (37%) was observed among 21 patients who demonstrated a response to first-line and second-line treatment compared to those who demonstrated a response to first-line treatment only (6 and 0%, respectively) ( P n = 13) who failed to respond to either first-line or second-line treatment survived for 5 years. Among 42 patients with ≤5 mm residual disease at the time of initiation of IPC, 5-year survival was 36% and 5-year progression-free survival was 31%, while no patient ( n = 21) with residual disease measuring >5 mm at the initiation of IPC survived 5 years ( P Conclusion. Given the limitation that this is not a randomized trial, the data appear to indicate that salvage platinum-based intraperitoneal chemotherapy results in significant 5-year survival and progression-free survival in selected patients who initiated therapy with small (≤5 mm) tumor burden. These survival rates as second-line therapy approach those achieved by first-line platinum-based intravenous chemotherapy in patients with advanced-stage ovarian cancer with similar small residual disease at the initiation of therapy.
Opposed-flow flame spread and extinction in mixed-convection boundary layers

Experimental data for flame spread down thin fuel samples in an opposing, mixed-convection, boundary-layer flow are analyzed to determine the gas-phase velocity that characterizes how the flame reacts as it spreads toward the leading edge of the fuel sample into a thinning boundary layer. In the forced-flow limit where the cube of the Reynolds number divided by the Grashof number, Re exp 3/Gr, is large, L(q)/L(e), where L(q) is a theoretical flame standoff distance at extinction and L(e) is the measured distance from the leading edge of the sample where extinction occurs, is found to be proportional to Re exp n with n = -0.874 and Re based on L(e). The value of n is established by the character of the flow field near the leading edge of the flame. The Re dependence is used, along with a correction for the mixed-convection situation where Re exp 3/Gr is not large, to construct a Damkohler number with which the measured spread rates correlate for all values of Re exp 3/Gr.
On the reorganization of homobullvalenyl carbonium ions: A convenient synthesis of homobullvalenone

There has been continued intense interest in the reorganization of (CH), hydrocarbons and ions particularly with regard to expectations based on theoretical grounds. 1 Toward this end we recently described the generation of enone i upon silver assisted solvolysis of dibromide 1. 2a We report here the ready conversion of dibromide 1 to the skeletally related a-bromotrifluoroacetate, 2. 2b Treatment of 2 with silver trifluoroacetate affords preparative quantities of homobullvalenone (z)3a confirming our prior suggestion of its intermediacy on the path to 5 More importantly, the isolation of two additional isomeric ketones appears to gilie some additional insight into the predominant modes of rearrangement in this manifold.
Mechanisms controlling expression of the RAG locus during lymphocyte development

Recombination activating genes (RAG)1 and RAG2 are expressed in developing B and T lymphocytes and are required for the rearrangement of antigen receptor genes. In turn, RAG expression is regulated by the products of these assembled immunoglobulin (Ig) and T cell receptor (TCR) genes. Upon successful assembly of Ig genes, the antigen receptor is expressed on the immature B cell surface and tested for autoreactivity leading to either maintenance or inactivation of RAG expression. Successful assembly of TCR genes is followed by surface TCR expression and testing for its ability to interact with self-MHC, which if appropriate leads to the inactivation of RAG expression. Recent studies in B and T lymphocytes demonstrate that the reduction in RAG expression at the immature B and double-positive (DP) T cell stages is mediated through tonic (foreign antigen independent) receptor signaling. In B cells, tonic signaling activates PI(3)K and Akt kinases, which phosphorylate and lead to the cytoplasmic sequestration of FoxO proteins, the key transcriptional activators of RAG expression. In T cells, tonic signaling activates Abl and Erk kinases, leading to the transcriptional inactivation of RAGs.
Complementary and alternative medicine. The importance of doctor-patient communication.

The foundation of good medical care is a comfortable and evolving relationship between the patient and the physician. Since the dawn of medicine with Hippocrates and later Plato, this relationship was regarded as the foundation of the art of medicine. This bidirectional relationship has evolved over time from a benign physician paternalism to one of patient autonomy. It is hoped that by communicating about CAM, patients and physicians can reach a state of shared comfort, described by Balint as the mutual investment company. To begin this process, physicians must understand the complex and important role CAM plays in modern society. Its increasing prevalence and efficacy benefit (actual and perceived) are difficult points to argue with. Patients need to understand they can turn to physicians to receive constructive feedback with regards to the safety and efficacy of these modalities in an unbiased fashion. Physicians can do no less for their patients. As Peabody said in 1927, "...the secret of the care of the patient is caring for the patient."
What Is a Geriatrician? American Geriatrics Society and Association of Directors of Geriatric Academic Programs End-of-Training Entrustable Professional Activities for Geriatric Medicine

Entrustable professional activities (EPAs) describe the core work that constitutes a discipline's specific expertise and provide the framework for faculty to perform meaningful assessment of geriatric fellows. This article describes the collaborative process of developing the end-of-training American Geriatrics Society (AGS) and Association of Directors of Geriatric Academic Programs (ADGAP) EPAs for Geriatric Medicine (AGS/ADGAP EPAs). The geriatrics EPAs describes a geriatrician's fundamental expertise and how geriatricians differ from general internists and family practitioners who care for older adults.
Fire in Chihuahuan Desert grassland: Short-term effects on vegetation, small mammal populations, and faunal pedoturbation

A prescribed burn resulted in significant decreases in canopy cover of the grasses: Bouteloua eriopoda, Sporobolus flexuosus, and Aristida purpurea. One year post-burn, basal cover of B. eriopoda remained significantly lower in burned patches than in unburned areas but there were no differences in basal cover of the other perennial grasses. Only one species of the 14 summer annual species occurred in both burned and unburned plots. There were six species of spring annuals in burned patches but no spring annuals in the unburned grassland ten months post-burn. Fire killed 100% of the snakeweed shrubs (Gutierrezia sarothrae), 77% of the Ephedra torreyana shrubs, and 36% of the Yucca elata. All mesquite shrubs that were top-killed by fire, resprouted one month post-burn. Fire had no effect on abundance and species richness of rodents. There were fewer wolf spider, Geolycosa spp. burrows in burned areas than in unburned grassland. The area and volume of soil in termite galleries and sheeting were significantly larger in the unburned grassland than in the burned areas.
Changes in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D and plasma intact PTH levels following treatment with ergocalciferol in patients with CKD.

Background Vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency are very common in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The effect of ergocalciferol administration on serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D and plasma intact parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels in these patients is not known. Study Design Retrospective study. Setting & Participants Patients with CKD stage 3 or 4 who had a serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D level less than 30 ng/mL ( Outcome & Measurements 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and intact PTH were measured at baseline and follow-up. Results 66 patients met inclusion criteria. Average age was 70.4 ± 1.3 (SE) years (range, 40 to 88 years), and 97% were men. There were 44 patients (66%) with CKD stage 3 and 22 patients (33%) with CKD stage 4. After a median follow-up of 6 months, there was a significant increase in 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels from 16.6 ± 0.7 to 27.2 ± 1.8 ng/mL (41 ± 2 to 68 ± 4 nmol/L; P P 12 nmol/L) is associated with a significant likelihood of a greater than 30% decrease in plasma intact PTH level (odds ratio, 4.5; 95% confidence interval, 1.5 to 15.1; P Limitations This is a retrospective study with mostly male patients. Conclusions Results show that ergocalciferol administration has a favorable effect on PTH levels if therapy results in an increase in 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels; this effect is more evident in patients with CKD stage 3.
Propranolol for airway hemangiomas: Case report of novel treatment

Infantile hemangiomas arising in the trachea are rare. These lesions pose a management dilemma as several treatment options can provide safe management. Propranolol, a nonselective beta-blocker, has recently been introduced as a novel modality for the treatment of proliferating hemangiomas. This report illustrates the successful management of tracheal hemangiomas using oral propranolol in a young patient with otherwise treatment-resistant airway lesions. Despite various endoscopic therapeutic attempts, the patient remained stridulous with airway disease that persisted into the involution phase of the average hemangioma cycle. Within 6 weeks of beginning oral propranolol (2 mg/kg/day), her airway compromise was eliminated and she had complete resolution of endoscopically visible disease. No side effects from propranolol occurred. We propose that oral propranolol should be considered for use in airway hemangiomas.
Estrogen associated changes in uterine blood flow and maternal recognition of pregnancy in Chinese (Meishan) pigs

Our laboratory has recently demonstrated a reduced embryonic growth rate and estradiol-17β (E2β) content of preimplantation Meishan embryos compared with embryos of European breeds. Estrogen secretion by the preimplantation conceptus has been linked to both the transient increase in uterine blood flow (UBF), and maternal recognition of pregnancy (MRP) on Days 11–13 of gestation in European swine breeds. The objective of these experiments was to evaluate the temporal association between estrogen secretion by the preimplantation conceptus, increases in UBF and the onset of MRP in Meishan pigs. In Experiment 1, multiparous Meishan sows (N = 3) were observed for estrus once daily, and hand-mated at first observed estrus (Day 0) and 24 h later with a Meishan boar. On Day 2 postmating, sows were bilaterally instrumented with blood flow transducers and uterine venous catheters. UBF (ml min−1) was monitored and blood samples collected once daily from Days 6 to 30 postmating. UBF increased on Day 11 (P = 0.06) to peak on Day 13, then decreased on Days 14–17, before increasing progressively thereafter, coincident with increasing uterine E2β secretion. In Experiment 2, second cycle Meishan (N = 20) and Yorkshire (N = 18) gilts were hand-mated at first observed estrus (Day 0), and 24 h later, to boars of their own breed. Embryos were flushed from the gilts on Day 9, 11, 13 or 15 postmating. Gilts were again observed for estrus to determine treatment estrous cycle length (ECL). Treatment ECL was similar (P > 0.1) to presurgical ECL when embryos were collected from either Meishan or Yorkshire gilts on Days 9 and 11. ECL was extended in both breeds (P < 0.05) when embryos were recovered on Days 13 and 15.
Macrophages isolated from regressing moloney sarcomas are more cytotoxic than those recovered from progressing sarcomas.

THERE is increasing evidence that many tumours contain appreciable numbers of macrophages1–3, and that these inflammatory cells can be cytotoxic for various neoplastic cells in vitro4,5. Thus at first it seems paradoxical that many tumours are progressive and lethal in spite of a high content of macrophages. But to kill a malignant cell, these inflammatory cells must be brought to an ill-defined state of ‘activation’6,7. It is therefore conceivable that the macrophages in progressing tumours are less activated, and thus less cytotoxic, than those in spontaneously regressing neoplasms. To test this hypothesis we isolated macrophages from either regressing or progressing Moloney sarcomas and tested them in vitro for their capacity to release chromium-51 (51Cr) from prelabelled target cells. The former were usually significantly more cytotoxic than the latter.
Neutron diffraction intensities from vibrating double-crystal systems

Abstract Thermal neutron diffraction has been studied using single and double quartz crystal systems vibrating in the compressional and flexure modes. A spectral shift has been noted for a vibrating crystal resulting in an increase in most probably diffracted neutron wavelength from 2.2 A to 2.9 A. Double crystal diffraction was found to yield a 95% survival of once diffracted neutrons in the second diffraction, but with a large beam angular divergence. Large amplitude flexure mode studies produced a 30% reduction in diffracted intensity and no measurable effect on beam divergence.
Revisiting the Bicutan Siege Police Use of Force in a Maximum Security Detention Center in the Philippines

Special Action Forces of the Philippine National Police stormed an attempted jailbreak in a maximum security detention center in Bicutan, Taguig City, Philippines, on March 15, 2005. This article reviews the results of separate investigations conducted by the Commission on Human Rights and the Philippine Alliance of Human Rights Advocates, news coverage, and the official statements of government officials involved. Three possible justifications emerge to explain the death of 23 detainees and a member of the national police: (1) incompetence of prison and police personnel; (2) a breakdown of administrative control over the police assault team; and (3) a premeditated and concerted effort to eliminate identified enemies of the state. The article concludes that the third option is the most credible, which is bolstered by the government's meager response to explain the massacre, and by failing to adopt measures proposed by the Philippine Commission on Human Rights.
A legislatively mandated council: a model for palliative care policy integration.

Abstract Mechanisms are needed to foster discussion of policy choices about end-of-life care, identify areas of general agreement, and clarify possible areas of disagreement. The Maryland State Advisory Council on Quality Care at the End of Life (MSAC), created by legislation as a permanent part of Maryland government, is one such mechanism. We describe the rationale for creating the MSAC, its operational features, and some of its successes and challenges. Given state-to-state variation in many aspects of health care organization and financing, we do not present the MSAC as a model to be adopted in every state. The MSAC's body of work over 8 years indicates that the model can be an effective catalyst for positive change in end-of-life policy making. Reformers elsewhere should consider this model, with an eye to both the MSAC's accomplishments and areas in which a different approach might be more fruitful.
Modeling photonic structures - nanophotonics, vecsels, x-waves and light strings

We will discuss how computational photonics impacts the design and fabrication of future micro- and nano-scale optical on-chip devices, high power, high brightness semiconductor lasers and the study of ultra-fast, highly nonlinear pulse propagation effect.
Antigens which detect IgE antibodies in workers sensitive to toluene diisocyanate

Summary Two antigens, both containing tolyl groups, were compared for ability to detect IgE antibodies in workers hypersensitive to toluene diisocyanate. One antigen, formed by reaction of p-tolyl isocyanate with human serum albumin, detected antibodies in each of ten hypersensitive workers. A second tolyl antigen, formed by reaction of p-toluoyl chloride and human serum albumin, and therefore lacking isocyanate linkages, detected antibodies in seven of the ten workers. In RAST assays, sera from toluene diisocyanate-sensitive workers demonstrated higher binding to human serum albumin-coated control discs than did sera from non-sensitive workers. The significance of this binding in calculating tolyl-reactive antibody titres is discussed.
Comparison of the small angle X-ray scattering study of sulfonated poly(etheretherketone) and Nafion membranes for direct methanol fuel cells

Abstract The microstructural evolution and swelling behaviors of sulfonated poly(etheretherketone) (SPEEK) and Nafion polymer membranes have been investigated by small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) after equilibrating them in 2 M methanol solution at various temperatures, which is relevant for their use in direct methanol fuel cells (DMFC). The relationships among Bragg distance, sulfonation levels of the membrane, equilibrating temperature and transport properties are discussed. The proton conduction properties of the SPEEK and Nafion membranes have been investigated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The network cluster model is employed to retrieve the structural information from the scattering and proton conductivity data. While the SPEEK membranes have narrower pathways for methanol/water permeation at T
Allosteric Mechanism of Hemoglobin: Concerted Mechanisms or Graded Mechanisms

Allosteric parameters (KT, KR, and Ln) of hemoglobin (Hb) are normally determined by thermodynamic analyses of oxygen-binding isotherma according to the Monod-Wyman-Changeux two-state concerted model [1]. KT and KR are independent of ligation states [1,2], whereas Ln is a function of the number of ligands bound. On the other hands, in structure-linked graded models such as the Koshland-Nemethy-Filmer sequential model [3], the Perutz steroechemical model [4], and the Eaton et al. tertiary two-state (TTS) model [5], the oxygen-affinity (Kn (n = 1, 2, 3, & 4)) of Hb is linked to certain ligation-induced structural changes (tertiary and/or quaternary) such as changes in salt bridges and T/R-quaternary structures. Then, the oxygen-binding processes become circular reversible kinetic processes, as schematically shown in the figure, rather than the truely reversible kinetic process as expected thermodynamically. Supported by NIH HL14508.Reference:[1] Monod, Wyman,Changeux J. Mol. Biol 12 (1965) 88-118.[2] Yonetani, Laberge BBA 1784 (2008) 1146-1158.[3] Koshland, Nemethy, Filmer Biochemistry 5 (1966) 365-385.[4] Perutz Nature 228 (1970) 726-739.[5] Eaton et al. IUBMB Life 59 (2007) 586-599.
The role of intuitive heuristics in students' thinking: Ranking chemical substances

The characterization of students' cognitive biases is of central importance in the development of curriculum and teaching strategies that better support student learning in science. In particular, the identification of shortcut reasoning procedures (heuristics) used by students to reduce cognitive load can help us devise strategies to foster the development of more analytical ways of thinking. The central goal of this study was thus to investigate the reasoning heuristics used by undergraduate chemistry students when solving a traditional academic task (ranking chemical substances based on the relative value of a physical or chemical property). For this purpose, a mixed-methods research study was completed based on quantitative results collected using a ranking-task questionnaire and qualitative data gathered through semistructured interviews. Our results revealed that many study participants relied frequently on one or more of the following heuristics to make their decisions: recognition, representativeness, one-reason decision making, and arbitrary trend. These heuristics allowed students to generate answers in the absence of requisite knowledge; unfortunately, they often led students astray. Our results suggest the need to create more opportunities for college chemistry students to monitor their thinking, develop and apply analytical ways of reasoning, and evaluate the effectiveness of shortcut reasoning procedures in different contexts. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Sci Ed94:963–984, 2010
The effects of antioestrogens on the oestrogen receptor

Abstract In order to probe the source of the antagonistic properties of triphenylethylene antioestrogens in oestrogen induced uterine growth, we have studied both low- and high-affinity antioestrogens. In in vitro competition studies H-1285 was shown to have about 1100% the affinity for the oestrogen receptor when compared with 17-β-oestradiol (E2) (100%) which is in sharp contrast to H-1067 and U-11, 100A (UA) which have 25 and 4% binding affinities, respectively. H-1285 and H-1067 both caused an increase in uterine DNA and wet weight, but were impeded oestrogens. H-1285 and H-1067 were also antioestrogenic because they inhibited the E2-induced DNA and wet weight responses. The in vivo nuclear and cytoplasmic oestrogen receptor responses to UA, H-1067 and H-1285 were also investigated and compared to the E2 response. All antioestrogens studied caused a prolonged nuclear retention of the oestrogen receptor, in contrast to the rapid uptake followed by a rapid deletion seen with E2. H-1285 receptor complexes, however, displayed a delayed uptake, which did not reach maximal nuclear levels until 24 h. Cytoplasmic oestrogen receptor replenishment with E2 was immediate and rapid. All the antioestrogens studied demonstrated delayed and slow receptor replenishment, about 25% the E2 induced rate. E2 injected at 48 h subsequent to an injection of H-1285 caused a rapid 1-h nuclear translocation of the oestrogen receptor followed by a complete nuclear “fallout” of receptor, a phenomenon previously seen only with oestrogens. No salt-resistant oestrogen receptor complex was measurable with a high-affinity antioestrogen H-1285 or with low affinity antioestrogens, H-1067, UA or enclomiphene during 1–12 h, but the salt-resistant form was seen with E2 and diethylstilboestrol at 1–6 h. All of the oestrogen responses (wet weight, protein content, DNA and protein synthesis) exhibited the same increase at 24 h whether single 5 μg E2 or H-1285 injections were administered. However, by 48 and 72 h, H-1285 consistently gave higher responses than did E2. E2 administered at 48 h subsequent to a previous E2 injection caused a dramatic increase in oestrogenic responses, in contrast to E2 given subsequent to H-1285 which caused only a slight increase in these responses. These data demonstrate the ability of H-1285 to inhibit oestrogen induced uterine responses.
Generation and characterization of an IGFBP-7 antibody: Identification of 31kD IGFBP-7 in human biological fluids and Hs578T human breast cancer conditioned media

The cDNA encoding mac25 (IGFBP-7) was first derived from mRNA isolated from leptomeningial and senescent human mammary epithelial cells (1, 2). The open reading frame was shown to predict a protein with homology to the amino terminus of the IGF binding proteins, (IGFBP)1-6. Studies in our laboratory have shown that baculovirus generated mac25 binds IGF-I and-II in a specific manner, leading to the renaming of mac25 as IGFBP-7 (3). Further studies at the cellular level, to identify the involvement of IGFBP-7 in IGF regulation and cell growth, require a specific antibody against the protein, which has yet to be identified in either culture cells or in vivo. We have now generated three polyclonal antibodies against the purified baculovirus peptide, and, by western immunoblots and immunoprecipitation, demonstrated the existence of a specific 31,000 dalton protein. It is a secreted protein and can be identified in the conditioned media of Hs578T breast cancer cells, as well as in normal human urine, cerebrospi...
Modern Diagnosis of Small Cell Malignancies of Children.

Small cell malignancies of children constitute a continuing diagnostic challenge for surgical pathologists, although modern methods of ancillary diagnosis provide powerful tools that resolve most difficult cases. Current techniques range from identification of DNA alternations, including gene fusions, chromosome translocations, and genetic deletions, to recognition of characteristic patterns of protein expression, usually visualized with immunohistochemistry. In spite of these advances, recognition of key cellular and histologic features remains the keystone of diagnosis but requires adequately fixed and carefully stained histologic sections. Cytologic features now suffice for diagnosis if confirmed by appropriate testing. This article outlines key histologic features of pediatric small cell neoplasms and the algorithms that allow diagnostic confirmation and the initiation of appropriate therapy.
A systematic approach to describe the air terminal device in CFD simulation for room air distribution analysis

Abstract Proper specification of air terminal device boundary conditions is the essential element in accurate prediction of the air distribution in a ventilated room. The conventional method of describing the air terminal device boundary conditions requires large computing time, and some of the assumptions made are far from reality. This paper proposes a systematic approach that correctly and simply describes the air terminal device boundary conditions for CFD simulation. Based on the detailed study of the air terminal device characteristics, the specification of complicated air terminal device boundary conditions is transferred to the specification of a volume around the diffuser. One surface of the volume will be located inside the jet main region. The boundary conditions of the volume are calculated using the diffuser jet characteristic equations. This method was proved to be easy to use, more efficient, applicable to any type of diffusers and, above all, can correctly predict the airflow in a ventilated room. The predictions of the newly proposed method were compared with the predictions of the conventional model as well as with the measured data. It is shown that the prediction of the new model is significantly more accurate than the prediction of the conventional model.
Secure optical data storage with random phase key codes by use of a configuration of a joint transform correlator

A secure optical storage based on a configuration of a joint transform correlator by use of a photorefractive material is presented. A key code designed through the use of an optimized algorithm so that its Fourier transform has a uniform amplitude distribution and a uniformly random phase distribution is introduced. Original two-dimensional data and the key code are placed side-by-side at the input plane. Both of them are stored in a photorefractive material as a joint power spectrum. The retrieval of the original data can be achieved with the same key code. We can record multiple two-dimensional data in the same crystal by angular multiplexing and/or key code multiplexing.
Are Efficiency and Equity in School Finance Substitutes or Complements

This paper analyzes cases made for local and centralized school finance and policies such as vouchers, categorical aid, and equalization aid. An ideal system of school finance would achieve efficiency and equity by ensuring every person invests in the amount of schooling that is socially optimal for him. The author evaluates the empirical evidence for, and the merit and importance of, arguments for each policy. She concludes that the theoretical arguments for centralized finance not only exaggerate the efficiency-equity tradeoff but actually make better arguments for a system combining local school finance with categorical aid and means-tested vouchers.
Posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms, intimate partner violence perpetration, and the mediating role of shame processing bias.

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may produce internal “threats to the self,” which generate shame. Shame is theoretically and empirically linked to intimate partner violence (IPV) perpetration. We examined relations among PTSD, cognitive processing of shame-relevant information, and IPV perpetration. Forty-seven community participants completed an emotional Stroop task with shame-relevant and neutral words. Stimuli were presented supraliminally (i.e., until vocal response) and subliminally (i.e., below an individualized threshold of conscious awareness). Facilitated color-naming of shame-relevant words (thought to reflect congruence between shame and self-schemas) mediated the relation between PTSD severity and IPV perpetration frequency. Mediation results for subliminal stimuli suggest that biased processing of shame cues may occur preconsciously and potentially catalyze processes (i.e., expectations of rejection in ambiguous situations with one's partner; avoidance that minimizes discomfort and protects self-image) that lead to IPV perpetration. Psychotherapeutic approaches to PTSD and IPV should consider the role of facilitated processing of shame cues.
Determination of the optical properties of melanin-pigmented human skin equivalents using terahertz time-domain spectroscopy

Terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) methods have been utilized in previous studies in order to characterize the optical properties of skin and its primary constituents (i.e., water, collagen, and keratin). However, similar experiments have not yet been performed to investigate whether melanocytes and the melanin pigment that they synthesize contribute to skin’s optical properties. In this study, we used THz-TDS methods operating in transmission geometry to measure the optical properties of in vitro human skin equivalents with or without normal human melanocytes. Skin equivalents were cultured for three weeks to promote gradual melanogenesis, and THz time domain data were collected at various time intervals. Frequency-domain analysis techniques were performed to determine the index of refraction (n) and absorption coefficient (μ a ) for each skin sample over the frequency range of 0.1-2.0 THz. We found that for all samples as frequency increased, n decreased exponentially and the μ a increased linearly. Additionally, we observed that skin samples with higher levels of melanin exhibited greater n and μ a values than the non-pigmented samples. Our results indicate that melanocytes and the degree of melanin pigmentation contribute in an appreciable manner to the skin’s optical properties. Future studies will be performed to examine whether these contributions are observed in human skin in vivo.
Longitudinal predictors of serious physical and sexual dating violence victimization during adolescence.

Background. This study identifies potentially modifiable risk factors for the onset of and chronic victimization from serious physical and sexual dating violence. Methods. One thousand two hundred ninety-one 8th and 9th graders from a county in North Carolina were assessed annually for 5 and 4 years, respectively. Results. For males, having been hit by an adult with the intention of harm, having low self-esteem, and having been in a physical fight with a peer predicted onset of serious physical dating violence victimization. Those variables, plus having a friend who has been a victim of dating violence, alcohol use, and being white, predicted chronic victimization for males. For females, onset of serious physical dating violence victimization was predicted by having been hit by an adult; that variable, plus living in a single-parent household, predicted chronic victimization from serious physical violence. Also for females, onset of sexual violence victimization was predicted by having a friend who has been the victim of dating violence and being depressed; those variables and gender stereotyping predicted chronic victimization from sexual dating violence. Conclusions. The findings identify high-risk groups and risk factors to target for intervention and have implications for approaches to delivering dating violence prevention programs.
Persistence of Mild to Moderate Atopic Dermatitis

Importance Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common illness of childhood. Objective To evaluate the natural history of AD and determine the persistence of symptoms over time. Design, Setting, and Participants A cross-sectional and cohort study of a nation-wide long-term registry of children with AD enrolled in the Pediatric Eczema Elective Registry (PEER). Main Outcomes and Measures Self-reported outcome of whether a child’s skin was AD symptom–free for 6 months at 6-month intervals. Results A total of 7157 patients were enrolled in the PEER study for a total of 22 550 person-years. At least 2 years of follow-up were observed for 4248 children and at least 5 years of follow-up were observed for 2416 children. Multiple demographic and exposure variables were associated with more persistent AD. At every age (ie, 2-26 years), more than 80% of PEER participants had symptoms of AD and/or were using medication to treat their AD. It was not until age 20 years that 50% of patients had at least 1 lifetime 6-month symptom- and treatment-free period. Conclusions and Relevance Based on this large longitudinal cohort study, symptoms associated with AD seem to persist well into the second decade of a child’s life and likely longer. Atopic dermatitis is probably a life-long illness.
Quantitative Estimation of Alfalfa Insect Populations by Removal Sweeping

Insect populations were estimated from the reduction in catches in successive sweep samples taken from the same area. A model is provided which assumes that the probability of collecting an insect may change with successive samples. This model seems superior to previous models which assume a constant probability for capture. Population estimates are compared with results of D-Vac samples. Removal sweeping provided good estimates of Lygus lineolaris (Palisot de Beauvois), Adelphocoris lineolatus (Goeze), Empoasca fabae (Harris), Macrosteles fascifrons (Stal), Nabis sp., grasshoppers, and Hippodamia convergens Guerin-Meneville larvae. H. convergens adults were reasonably estimated in one experiment but overestimated in another case due to immigration during sampling. Estimates for Orius insidiosus (Say), Hypera postica (Gyllenhal) larvae, and Aphidius sp. were unsatisfactory. General considerations involved in obtaining optimum estimates are discussed.
Convergence of density functional iterative procedures with a Newton-Raphson algorithm

State of the art first-principles calculations of electronic structures aim at finding the ground state electronic density distribution. The performance of such methodologies is determined by the effectiveness of the iterative solution of the nonlinear density functional Kohn-Sham equations. We first outline a solution strategy based on the Newton-Raphson method. A form of the algorithm is then applied to the simplest and earliest density functional model, i.e., the atomic Thomas-Fermi model. For the neutral atom, we demonstrate the effectiveness of a charge conserving Newton-Raphson iterative method for the computation, which is independent of the starting guess; it converges rapidly, even for a randomly selected normalized starting density.
Cutaneous reactions produced by fumaronitrile in human subjects.

SUMMARY.— Experiments have been carried out to investigate possible contact dermatitic effects of fumaronitrile. Fumaronitrile was found to be a potent irritant and vesicant, especially in solution.
Optimal stopping of Markov switching Lévy processes

We consider a finite time horizon optimal stopping of a regime-switching Levy process. We prove that the value function of the optimal stopping problem can be characterized as the unique viscosity solution of the associated Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman variational inequalities.
The inside track from academia and industryTalents and technologies

More universities are offering career and technology-transfer advice — but not enough scientists are utilizing these offices.
A different view of A68 and amyloid

Data discussed in Dr. Selkoe's review can be interpreted in several ways, suggesting alternate hypotheses regarding the nature of A68, and the relationship between amyloid and Alzheimer's disease.