cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Gastrointestinal Symptoms as a Predictor of Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis of the Posterior Compartment of the Pelvis on MRI Imaging

Study Objective To determine if gastrointestinal symptoms can predict deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) of the posterior compartment of the pelvis on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Design Retrospective cohort study. Presenting gastrointestinal symptoms were collected from the modified International Pelvic Pain Society Pelvic Pain Assessment Form (mIPPS-PPAF). MRI reports and interdisciplinary conference notes were reviewed to identify DIE of the posterior compartment (rectosigmoid, uterosacral ligaments, posterior cul de sac, and pelvic side walls). Associations between symptoms and DIE were evaluated using logistic regression. Setting Academic tertiary care center. Patients or Participants Patients with suspected endometriosis undergoing an endometriosis protocol MRI with interdisciplinary conference review between 9/1/2015 and 7/31/2018 were identified from a clinical database. Patients with a pre-treatment mIPPS-PPAF were included. Interventions N/A Measurements and Main Results 104 patients met inclusion criteria; 89 (85.6%) presented with at least one gastrointestinal symptom. DIE of the posterior compartment was identified on MRI in 47 patients (45.2%). A bowel movement resulting in pain relief was the gastrointestinal symptom that most strongly predicted DIE (OR 3.36, 95%CI 1.31-8.61, p=0.012). For this symptom, sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were 0.42, 0.82, 0.67, and 0.63, respectively. Other gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, emesis, rectal bleeding, and increased pain with change in frequency of bowel movements did not have a statistically significant association with DIE; a trend towards significance was seen for bowel movements making pain worse (OR 2.33, 95%CI 0.97-5.58, p=0.059). Of the 15 patients with no gastrointestinal symptoms, 5 were found to have DIE of the posterior compartment. Conclusion In patients with suspected endometriosis, those who noted that bowel movements relieved their pain had more than 3 times the odds of having DIE of the posterior compartment on an endometriosis protocol MRI. Preoperative evaluation with MRI may be of value in these patients; however, lack of gastrointestinal symptoms does not exclude the possibility of posterior compartment DIE.
In situ selective laser gas nitriding for composite TiN/Ti-6Al-4V fabrication via laser powder bed fusion

Abstract Laser-assisted gas nitriding of selective Ti-6Al-4 V surfaces has been achieved during laser powder bed fusion fabrication by exchanging the argon build gas environment with nitrogen. Systematic variation of processing parameters allowed microdendritic TiN surface coatings to be formed having thicknesses ranging from a few tens of microns to several hundred microns, with TiN dendrite microstructure volume fractions ranging from 0.6 to 0.75; and corresponding Vickers microindentation hardness values ranging from ∼ 7.5 GPa–9.5 GPa. Embedded TiN hard layers ranging from 50 μm to 150 μm thick were also fabricated in the laser-beam additively manufactured Ti-6Al-4 V alloy producing prototype, hybrid, planar composites having alternating, ductile Ti-6Al-4 V layers with a hardness of ∼ 4.5 GPa and a stiff, TiN layer with a hardness of ∼8.5 GPa. The results demonstrate prospects for fabricating novel, additively manufactured components having selective, hard, wear and corrosion resistant coatings along with periodic, planar or complex metal matrix composite regimes exhibiting superior toughness and related mechanical properties.
Alterations in sleep electroencephalography synchrony in combat-exposed veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder.

STUDY OBJECTIVES We assessed whether the synchrony between brain regions, analyzed using electroencephalography (EEG) signals recorded during sleep, is altered in subjects with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and whether the results are reproducible across consecutive nights and subpopulations of the study. METHODS A total of 78 combat-exposed veteran men with (n = 31) and without (n = 47) PTSD completed two consecutive laboratory nights of high-density EEG recordings. We computed a measure of synchrony for each EEG channel-pair across three sleep stages (rapid eye movement [REM] and non-REM stages 2 and 3) and six frequency bands. We examined the median synchrony in 9 region-of-interest (ROI) pairs consisting of 6 bilateral brain regions (left and right frontal, central, and parietal regions) for 10 frequency-band and sleep-stage combinations. To assess reproducibility, we used the first 47 consecutive subjects (18 with PTSD) for initial discovery and the remaining 31 subjects (13 with PTSD) for replication. RESULTS In the discovery analysis, five alpha-band synchrony pairs during non-REM sleep were consistently larger in PTSD subjects compared with controls (effect sizes ranging from 0.52 to 1.44) across consecutive nights: two between the left-frontal and left-parietal ROIs, one between the left-central and left-parietal ROIs, and two across central and parietal bilateral ROIs. These trends were preserved in the replication set. CONCLUSION PTSD subjects showed increased alpha-band synchrony during non-REM sleep in the left frontoparietal, left centro-parietal, and inter-parietal brain regions. Importantly, these trends were reproducible across consecutive nights and subpopulations. Thus, these alterations in alpha synchrony may be discriminatory of PTSD.
Chapter 5 – Conservation Law

In Chapter 4, two types of relationships among traffic flow characteristics were discussed: the flow-speed-density relationship (i.e., the identify) and the pairwise relationships (i.e., equilibrium models). These relationships, however, describe only traffic flow in steady states, whereas traffic flow dynamics are of great interest for traffic control and management. This chapter paves the way to dynamic traffic flow modeling by setting up dynamic relationships among traffic flow characteristics.
Pitx2-Sox2-Lef1 interactions specify progenitor oral/dental epithelial cell signaling centers.

Epithelial signaling centers control epithelial invagination and organ development, but how these centers are specified remains unclear. We report that Pitx2 (the first transcriptional marker for tooth development) controls the embryonic formation and patterning of epithelial signaling centers during incisor development. We demonstrate using Krt14Cre/Pitx2flox/flox (Pitx2cKO) embryos, and Rosa26CreERT/Pitx2flox/flox mice that loss of Pitx2 delays epithelial invagination, decreases progenitor cell proliferation, and dental epithelium cell differentiation. Developmentally, Pitx2 regulates formation of the Sox2+ labial cervical loop (LaCL) stem cell niche in concert with two signaling centers, the initiation knot (IK) and enamel knot (EK). The loss of Pitx2 disrupted the patterning of these two signaling centers resulting in tooth arrest at E14.5. Mechanistically, Pitx2 transcriptional activity and DNA binding is inhibited by Sox2, and this interaction controls gene expression in specific Sox2 and Pitx2 co-expression progenitor cell domains. We demonstrate new transcriptional mechanisms regulating signaling centers by Pitx2, Sox2, Lef-1 and Irx1.
Effects of different interventions on virus detoxification in patients with hand, foot and mouth disease caused by other enterovirus infection

Objective To understand the pharyngeal and intestinal detoxification time of hand, foot and mouth disease caused by non-enterovirus 71 and non-coxsackievirus A16 enteroviruses (other EV), and the effect of recombinant human interferon α2b spray on its detoxification time. Methods The data of 159 children with hand, foot and mouth disease caused by other EV infection who were admitted in Hangzhou Children’s Hospital from December 2016 to December 2017 were selected. The stools and pharynx were collected within 2 days after admission, and tested for virus by real-time PCR. The pharyngeal and intestinal detoxification situation of 87 patients with complete diagnosis were followed up. The experimental group was treated with recombinant human interferon α2b spray(52 cases), and the control group was treated with Kaihoujian spray(35 cases). The cumulative conversion rate of two groups were observed. Results The fecal virus nucleic acid in 159 patients were all positive at the first week of treatment, and negative cases occurred at the second week. By the sixth week, all the fecal virus nucleic acid were negative. The cumulative negative rate of pharyngeal detoxification for hand, foot and mouth disease caused by other EV was 54.0%, which was higher than that of the control group(40.0%), but the difference was not statistically significant (χ2=1.382, P>0.05). There was no significant difference in the cumulative negative rate of enterovirus between the two groups (χ2=0.131, P>0.05). Conclusions Enterovirus turns negative in hand, foot and mouth disease children caused by other EV infections in the second week. Recombinant human interferon α2b spray treatment slightly improved the pharyngeal detoxification rate. Key words: Hand, foot and mouth disease; Enteroviruses; IFNα2b; Detoxification time
Association of C>U RNA Editing with Human Disease Variants

RNA-editing is an important post-transcriptional RNA sequence modification performed by two catalytic enzymes, "ADAR"(A>I) and "APOBEC"(C>U). Although APOBEC-mediated C>U editing has been associated with a number of human cancers, the extent of C>U editing in human disease remains unclear. Here, we performed an association study and found that at least 1293 human disease variants occur at sites predicted by sequence motif analysis (RNASee protocol) to undergo APOBEC3A/G C>U editing. These variants were associated with a wide array of human disease conditions ranging from cancer, metabolic disorders, retinopathies, cardiomyopathies, neurodegenerative disorders and immunodeficiencies. These results indicate that APOBEC mediated C>U RNA editing may have widespread and previously unreported contributions to human disease conditions.
Body Mass Index Correlates with Skin to Spinal Canal Distance: A Large Retrospective Single-Center Study.

Background and purpose Despite increasing demand for fluoroscopy-guided lumbar puncture (FG-LP), there is limited quantitative and epidemiological data on patients undergoing this procedure. Additionally, data are scarce on the correlation of iliac crest landmarks to the actual anatomical lumbar level (intercristal line). The aim of this study is to determine if (1) body mass index (BMI) correlates with skin to spinal canal distance (SCD) and (2) the iliac crest landmark correlates with the presumed anatomical landmark on cross-sectional imaging. Methods In this retrospective, single-center IRB-approved study, we assessed 495 patients who underwent FG-LP and had lumbar computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging within 6 months of presentation. SCD was measured on the sagittal view at the L3-L4, L4-L5, and L5-S1 intervertebral levels. Results In our cohort of 495 adults (mean age ± standard deviation [SD], 53.2 ± 16.4 years), there was a statistically significant linear correlation between BMI and SCD at each intervertebral level. Mean ± SD (R2 ) SCD at L3-4, L4-5, and L5-S1 was 6.7 ± 1.6 cm (.5486), 7.4 ± 1.9 cm (.5894), and 7.8 ± 1.9 cm (.5968), respectively. The intercristal line aligned with L3-L4, L4-L5, and L5-S1 in 2.1%, 72.4%, and 6.2% of patients, respectively. Conclusions There was direct, positive linear correlation between BMI and SCD at clinically relevant lumbar disc levels. Furthermore, there is considerable anatomical variance in the intervertebral space that aligns with the superior aspect of the iliac crest.
Abstract A08: PI3Kbeta regulates beta-1 integrin signaling in invadopodia through formation of PI(3,4)P2

The PI3Kbeta isoform of PI 3-kinase, which is activated downstream from both RTKs and GPCRs, is an important regulator of invadopodia formation. We have previously reported that in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells, replacement of endogenous PI3Kbeta with kinase dead (KD) or GPCR-uncoupled (KK-DD) mutants leads to defects in invadopodia-mediated gelatin degradation. We have now studied the mechanism by which loss of PI3Kbeta signaling affects invadopodia. While the number of invadopodia precursors is unaffected by mutation of PI3Kbeta, formation of mature invadopodia is reduced in cells expressing KK-DD and KD PI3Kbeta mutants. Previous studies have demonstrated a role for beta-1 integrins in invadopodia maturation, and PI3Kbeta has been implicated in integrin signaling in platelets. We therefore tested whether mutation of PI3Kbeta would affect integrin signaling in breast cancer cells. In both haptotaxis and cell spreading assays on collagen I, cells expressing KD or KK-DD PI3Kbeta showed a significant impairment. Haptotaxis and cell spreading was also inhibited by TGX221 (PI3Kbeta inhibitor) and pertussis toxin (PTX), but not by specific inhibitors of other Class I PI3Ks. To distinguish whether PI3Kbeta was acting on integrins by inside-out versus outside-in mechanisms, we treated cells with the activating beta-1 integrin antibody TS2/16, which bypasses inside-out regulation of integrin binding. TS2/16 increased cell spreading on gelatin, but this was blocked by TGX221, suggesting that PI3Kbeta acts downstream of beta-1 integrins. Importantly, haptotaxis and cell spreading were not affected by an Akt inhibitor, but were blocked by an inhibitor of SHIP2, which hydrolyzes PIP3 to produce PI[3,4]P2. These data suggest that integrin signaling requires the coupling of Gbeta/gamma-mediated activation of PI3Kbeta to the production of PI[3,4]P2. Finally, to determine whether PI3Kbeta was involved in beta-1 integrin signaling in invadopodia, we plated starved cells on high-density fibrillar collagen (HDFC), which drives invadopodia formation through beta-1 integrin activation. Collagen degradation on HDFC was blocked by inhibition of PI3Kbeta or SHIP2, but not PI3Kalpha. Moreover, recruitment of the PI(3,4)P2 binding protein lamellipodin to invadopodia was reduced by inhibition of PI3Kbeta. In summary, beta-1 integrin signaling in the context of invadopodia maturation requires signaling through PI3Kbeta. We propose that heterotrimeric G-protein activation of PI3Kbeta is necessary for formation of PI(3,4)P2 in invadopodia, which is required for invadopodial maturation. Citation Format: Zahra Erami, Anne R. Bresnick, Jonathan M. Backer. PI3Kbeta regulates beta-1 integrin signaling in invadopodia through formation of PI(3,4)P2 [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Targeting PI3K/mTOR Signaling; 2018 Nov 30-Dec 8; Boston, MA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Res 2020;18(10_Suppl):Abstract nr A08.
Evaluation of Single-Phase PV Smart Inverter Functions in Unbalanced Residential Distribution Systems

Rooftop single-phase PV smart inverters in residential distribution systems are becoming more common throughout the United States. As a result, utilities are experiencing increases in the numbers of operations for voltage regulators and on-load tap changers under certain operating conditions for high PV penetration levels which may lead to reduced maintenance intervals. However, PV smart inverters can be controlled under different functions or operating modes with some potentially reducing the number of operations of voltage regulators and thus, increasing maintenance intervals. To this end, three selected functions of PV smart inverters are evaluated on a case study based on a 13.8-kV modified IEEE 37-bus system controlled under conservation voltage reduction and integrated Volt/VAr using EPRI OpenDSS™ software package to demonstrate that some functions do positively assist in voltage regulation and reactive power control.
Future Trends in Semiconducting Gas-Selective Sensing Probes for Skin Diagnostics

This paper presents sensor nanotechnologies that can be used for the skin-based gas "smelling" of disease. Skin testing may provide rapid and reliable results, using specific "fingerprints" or unique patterns for a variety of diseases and conditions. These can include metabolic diseases, such as diabetes and cholesterol-induced heart disease; neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's; quality of life conditions, such as obesity and sleep apnea; pulmonary diseases, such as cystic fibrosis, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; gastrointestinal tract diseases, such as irritable bowel syndrome and colitis; cancers, such as breast, lung, pancreatic, and colon cancers; infectious diseases, such as the flu and COVID-19; as well as diseases commonly found in ICU patients, such as urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and infections of the blood stream. Focusing on the most common gaseous biomarkers in breath and skin, which is nitric oxide and carbon monoxide, and certain abundant volatile organic compounds (acetone, isoprene, ammonia, alcohols, sulfides), it is argued here that effective discrimination between the diseases mentioned above is possible, by capturing the relative sensor output signals from the detection of each of these biomarkers and identifying the distinct breath print for each disease.
Next Generation of Real-Time Operating Systems: Industrial Prospective

The presentation begins with discussing major driving forces which will impact the next generation of real-time operating systems. These are: 1. Approval of the ieee posix standards 1003.4 (Real-time standard), and 1003.4a (Threads). Once these standards will be approved (expected time frame is end of 1992 to middle of 1993), every real-time operating system in order to be successful, must comply with the standard. In other words, the domination of proprietary real-time operating systems will be over! 2. Big players, such as ibm, des, Hewlett-Packard, and Sun, have entered the real-time computer battle by introducing their real-time unix operating systems. Their rt unix systems contain a fully preemptive kernel, fixed priority schedulers, and run on powerful risc-based systems. These are ibm, aix, des osf/1, sun Solaris 2.0, and hp/rt.
Spatial multiplexing for blue lasers for undersea communications

Space division multiplexing of optical beams has recently been demonstrated for improving the bandwidth of optical communication links. This paper will explore the use of space division multiplexing utilizing blue lasers for potential undersea applications. Experimental results will be shown for optical vortices utilizing a range of charge numbers corresponding to various Orbital Angular Momentum states.
Toward Sustainable Collaborative Software Development: A Case in Higher Education

Unmet needs in the area of enterprise applications have led to a new type of system development. Community source is collaborative open source development among multiple institutional partners, typically to achieve mutually desired outcomes. By examining a real world community source project – Kuali, this study addresses the challenges community source faces for sustaining in a large and complicate community. We apply modularity theory to understand how such challenges can be addressed to enhance the sustainability of a collaborative software development community. The matrix is developed to demonstrate both of existing modularity and lacking of modularity in the Kuali community. A proposed matrix is suggested to enhance modularity and establish an organic roof for sustainable collaborative software development.
The total synthesis of 7(8→11α)abeoestrogens

Abstract The ambiguity concerning the relative importance of the spatial configuration and the electronic characteristics in determining the biological activity of steroids is reviewed. A novel approach to the resolution of this ambiguity, involving determination of the activity of model compounds, is presented. The total synthesis of some of these compounds, which are based on the 7(8→11α) abeo estrane ring system, is described. The biological activity of this class of compounds is found to provide evidence of the importance of the spatial characteristics of estrogens.
Improving irrigation efficiency through technology adoption: When will it Conserve water?

Abstract Irrigated agriculture accounts for as much as 90% of the water consumed in arid parts of the world. In these areas the availability of water for competing agriculture, domestic, industrial, and environmental uses is quite low. Since agriculture is normally the largest consumer of water, and the historical owner of water rights, it is frequently proposed that water could be made available for the other uses by increasing irrigation efficiency through investment in new irrigation technology. Unfortunately, this position is often advocated without full knowledge of how increased irrigation efficiency is achieved and the broader implications of this process. This paper will explain the physical phenomena of irrigation management and plant growth involved in changing irrigation efficiency. The paper will then examine the conditions under which such changes might conserve water use in agriculture and make more available for other uses. The paper will also demonstrate conditions in which improvements in irrigation efficiency may actually reduce water availability for other uses, particularly in periods of drought or water shortage. Irrigation return flows from inefficient irrigation systems are normally an important part of the water supply to subsequent users in irrigated river basins. In such settings the process of increasing irrigation efficiency can actually decrease instream water supplies during periods of drought when compared to use of older, less efficient technologies.
[9] Thiyl radical formation during thiol oxidation by ferrylmyoglobin

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the molecular mechanisms and methodological aspects of the reaction of two major classes of sulfur compounds—namely, aliphatic monothiols and dithiols, with the high oxidation state of myoglobin, known as “ferrylmyoglobin.” The biological significance of ferrylmyoglobin can be viewed in connection with its occurrence in vivo and its potential implications in cardiac and skeletal muscle oxidative conditions. The recovery of myoglobin by thiols, in itself a repair process, generates a thiyl radical species, an important feature of which is its chemical reactivity. Thiyl radicals are potent oxidants, which oxidize vitamin E and ascorbate and are also able to abstract an allylic hydrogen from unsaturated fatty acids, thus initiating lipid peroxidation. Thiyl radical formation appears to be a process inherent in enzymatic reactions, such as the oxidative decarboxylation of pyruvate to acetyl-CoA by pyruvate:ferredoxin oxidoreductase.
Relativism, Cultural and Moral

Cultural relativism is a descriptive claim that ethical practices differ among cultures; that is, as a matter of fact, what is considered right in one culture may be considered wrong in another. Thus, the truth or falsity of cultural relativism can be determined by examining the world. There is widespread consensus among social scientists that cultural relativism is true. Moral relativism, on the other hand, is the claim that what is really right or wrong is what the culture says is right or wrong. Moral relativists accept cultural relativism as true, but they claim much more. If a culture sincerely and reflectively adopts a basic moral principle, then it is morally obligatory for members of that culture to act in accordance with that principle. The plausibility of moral relativism is widely challenged. Keywords: moral differences; universal principles
Parsing of genomic graffiti

A focal point of modern biology is investigation of wide varieties of phenomena at the level of molecular genetics. The nucleotide sequences of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and ribonucleic acid (RNA) define the ultimate resolution of this reductionist approach to understand the determinants of heritable traits. The structure and function of genes, their composite genomic organization, and their regulated expression have been studied in systems representing every class of organism. Many human diseases or pathogenic syndromes can be directly attributed to inherited defects in either the regulated expression, or the quality of the products of specific genes. Genetic determinants of susceptibility to infectious agents or environmental hazards are amply documented. Mapping and sequencing of the DNA molecules encoding human genes have provided powerful technology for pharmaceutical bioengineering and forensic investigations.
Effects of stimulus modality on reversal and nonreversal concept learning in children

This study was concerned with the effects on reversal and nonreversal learning of presenting concept information either tactually or visually. A major finding of the investigation was the presence of a significant interaction between type of shift and mode of presentation. In the reversal situation, a tactual solution enhanced the shift solution, whereas in the nonreversal task, a tactual presentation interfered with the shift solution.
Linearization of the timing analysis and optimization of level-sensitive digital synchronous circuits

This paper describes a linear programming (LP) problem formulation applicable to the static-timing analysis of large scale synchronous circuits with level-sensitive latches. Specifically, an LP formulation for the clock period minimization problem is developed. In order to minimize the clock period of level-sensitive circuits, the simultaneous effects of time borrowing and nonzero clock skew scheduling are considered. The clock period minimization problem is formulated for both single-phase and multi-phase clocking schemes. The ISCAS'89 benchmark circuits are used to derive experimental results. LP minimization problems for these benchmark circuits are generated using the modified big M (MBM) method and the generated problems are solved using the industrial LP solver CPLEX . The experimental results demonstrate up to 63% improvements in minimum clock period compared to flip-flop based circuits with zero clock skew.
An enhancement of ion energy spectra resolution and sensitivity in a multigridded energy analyzer with a retarding grid potential: the variable energy analyzer (VEA)

An energy analyzer was developed that allows enhanced resolution of ion energy spectra and sensitivity. The energy analyzer is based on the principles of electrostatic multigrid ion or electron energy analyzers. Studies indicate that geometrical parameters such as grid separation, the grid transparency, and the spatial charge all influence the characteristic curve of the analyzer (typically a plot of collector current versus the retarding potential on the discriminator grid of the analyzer). Through the adjustment of these parameters, the resolution and the sensitivity of the analyzer is improved by a factor of two. It was found that there was an optimum separation distance between the two grids where the analyzer provides optimal resolution. >
Photoelastic measurement of recoverable strain at four sites

Abstract Recoverable strain has been measured in situ with bridged, photoelastic bar gages in both 45°−45°t-90° and 60°−60°−60° rosettes. Strains commonly lie between 10 and 200 · 10−6, but values of over 1000 · 10−6 have been measured. The variations in strain change are large over a period of several days. In some cases the initial relief is related to active tectonic deformation or topographic loading. Coaxially mounted rosettes show that the amount of recovery depends on the proximity to the freed surface. A partial relaxation of the strain, normal to a pervasive fracture set, may occur prior to an investigation, so that the major extension on overcoring is oriented parallel to such sets. At Rangely, Colorado, photoelastic data agree with measurements by five other methods, and are consistent with local fractures and the formation of the anticline. At three sites on Rattlesnake Mountain, Wyoming, the strain recovery two weeks after overcoring is correlated with stresses thought to occur within such a block during asymmetric uplift. The orientations of recovery axes at two sites, 72 km apart, in the Llano region, Texas, are similar and are related to stresses during Paleozoic folding as well as the opening of fractures during uplift.
TGA1a, a tobacco DNA-binding protein, increases the rate of preinitiation complex formation in a plant in vitro transcription system [corrected]

We describe here a plant in vitro transcription system for class II promoters using wheat germ extract. In this system transcription is stimulated by TGA1a, a tobacco DNA-binding protein, and the stimulation is dependent on the presence of its cognate binding site upstream of the TATA box. Titration experiments showed that transcription initiation is more sensitive than transcription elongation to low concentrations of sarkosyl (N-lauroylsarcosine). At 0.07% sarkosyl, the formation of initiated complex is inhibited but transcription elongation is not. Under these conditions, events associated with a single round of transcription can be studied. We demonstrate that the time required for completing transcription of a 380-base-pair template is about 10 min. Addition of TGA1a increases the number of preinitiation complexes by approximately 3-fold with no significant effect on the frequency of transcription initiation from a single complex or on the rate of RNA elongation. We anticipate that this in vitro system will be valuable for the elucidation of mechanisms that regulate transcription in plants.
Evolution of Multiple-Beam Antenna Design for Intelsat Satellites

An offset reflector antenna fed by a horn array feed is employed by INTELSAT to achieve multiple frequency re-use via spatial and polarization isolation among various coverage beams. As the satellites evolve from INTELSAT-V to INTELSAT-VI, the basic multiple beam antenna configuration remains the same. However, the reflector has to be made larger due to the introduction of more zone coverage beams with closer spacing. In addition, the feed array must be refined to improve its polarization purity and expand its bandwidth; the feed network is also designed to have lower loss and be more compact. For satellites beyond INTELSAT-VI generation. the teehuclogy demand will rely on using even larger reflectors to provide zone beams sep3I'ated very closely. The use of variable power dividers (VPS) and phase shifters (VPS) is very likely when a certain degree of reconfigurability is required. The feed array will require a selection between circular conical horns or multi-mode horns depending on the bandwidth requirement.
4-substituted quinoline N-oxide complexes of copper(II) acetate

Abstract A series of 4-substituted quinoline N-oxides (4ZQNO) and isoquinoline N-oxide (IQNO) have been found to react with copper(II) acetate to form the dimeric complexes [Cu(CH 3 (COO) 2 ·4ZQNO] 2 ·nH 2 O where Z is CH 3 O, CH 3 , H and Cl. The complexes were characterized by elemental analyses, electronic and infrared spectra and magnetic measurements. These data are all consistent with the δ-bonding model. The contributions of ligand steric effects and α- and π-bonding strengths to the magnitude of the copper-copper interaction are discussed. The isoquinoline N-oxide complex dehydrates over a period of time, resulting in crystal degradation to a powder. This is accompanied by a structural reorganization wherein the acetate groups probably change from bridging to monodentate. This results in a change in the magnetic moment from μ = 1.34 B.M. to μ = 2.00 B.M. with time.
Calibration of Reactive Transport Models for Remediation of Mine Drainage in Solid-Substrate Biocolumns

Experimental data pertaining to two pairs of solid-substrate sulfate-reducing biocolumns for remediation of mine drainage were used for calibrating and testing new reactive transport models based on sulfate reduction and sulfide precipitation linked to rate-limiting solid-substrate hydrolysis. First-order (F) and Contois (C) kinetics for decomposition as well as different numbers of pools of decomposable materials were proposed in different models (F1–F3 and C1–C3). Effluent sulfate concentrations for one of the columns were used as the basis for calibrating the different models and, due to limitations in the calibration data set, the number of adjustable model parameters was limited using parameter tying. Calibrated models were ranked using Akaike information criterion, and Model C2, followed by Model C1, based on Contois kinetics, emerged as the models that were supported to a greater extent by the data. For an independent experimental data set, model testing was performed using Models C2 and C1 with pa...
CLONING OF PUTATIVE GROWTH REGULATORY GENES FROM PRIMARY HUMAN KERATINOCYTES BY SUBTRACTIVE HYBRIDIZATION

Abstract In order to isolate genes that might be involved in regulating human keratinocyte (HKc) growth and/or differentiation, we constructed a cDNA library by subtractive hybridization between primary HKc and FaDu head-and-neck squamous cell carcinoma cells. Among the first set of independent cDNAs that we have isolated, ten correspond to known genes, and two represent novel sequences. Nine of the ten known genes are expressed at significantly lower levels in the majority of the SqCC cell lines in comparison with primary HKc. These include cDNAs that encode keratins K5 and K14 which are cytoskeletal proteins normally expressed in lining epithelia, the 14-3-3 protein stratifin/HME-1, lipocortin-II and CaN19 which are calcium-binding proteins that may play a role in HKc differentiation by regulating protein kinase C, plasminogen-activator inhibitor-2 which is a serine-proteinase inhibitor, HBp17 which is a HKc-specific secreted inhibitor of fibroblast growth factors, integrin α3 which plays a role in the anchoring of keratinocytes to basement membrane, and YL-8, a ras-like protein that probably mediates intracellular protein trafficking. In addition, we isolated two cDNAs, LIS-1 which encodes the 45-kDa intracellular subunit of the platelet-activating factor acetylhydrolase, and the unknown sequence HFBCB84 which showed reduced expression in only a small number of tumor lines as compared to HKc. Inactivation or loss of any of these proteins may confer a selective advantage onto squamous epithelial cells and contribute to their malignant transformation.
A unified fielder theory for interception of moving objects either above or below the horizon

A unified fielder theory is presented that explains how humans navigate to intercept targets that approach from either above or below the horizon. Despite vastly different physical forces affecting airborne and ground-based moving targets, a common set of invariant perception-action principles appears to guide pursuers. When intercepting airborne projectiles, fielders keep the target image rising at a constant optical speed in a vertical image plane and moving in a constant optical direction in an image plane that remains perpendicular to gaze direction. We confirm that fielders use the same strategies to intercept grounders. Fielders maintained a cotangent of gaze angle that decreases linearly with time (accounting for 98.7% of variance in ball speed) and a linear optical trajectory along an image plane that remains perpendicular to gaze direction (accounting for 98.2% of variance in ball position). The universality of maintaining optical speed and direction for both airborne and ground-based targets supports the theory that these mechanisms are domain independent.
PALATABILITY OF INDIVIDUAL MUSCLES FROM OVINE LEG STEAKS AS RELATED TO CHRONOLOGICAL AGE AND MARBLING

SUMMARY– 5 muscles from each of 243 leg steaks from sheep ranging in age from 74–665 days were evaluated mechanically for tenderness using a Warner-Bratzler shear and organoleptically for tenderness and juiciness by a trained 3-member panel. The rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, biceps femoris, semitendinosus and semimembranosus muscles were evaluated. The r. femoris and semitendinosus were given the highest (P <.05) organoleptic ratings for tenderness, whereas the semimembranosus was least tender (P <.05) among the 5 muscles compared. However, no significant difference was found between the shear force values of the b. femoris and semimembranosus. The b. femoris and r. femoris received the highest juiciness ratings, while the v. lateralis and semitendinosus were least desirable in juiciness (P <.05). Significant correlations (P <.01) were observed between cooking losses and juiciness ratings for the combined muscles and between marbling scores and juiciness ratings for the r. femoris, v. lateralis and semitendinosus. However, gross amount of marbling was of minor importance in explaining differences in juiciness between muscles since r. femoris had the least marbling (P <.05). Marbling appeared to be of little consequence in determining either tenderness or thaw drip loss, based on the extremely low correlation coefficients observed between marbling and each of these variables. Correlations were significant (P <.01) between chronological age and measures of tenderness and cooking loss. Cooking loss was also negatively correlated (P <.01) with taste panel tenderness ratings. Therefore, the detrimental effect of increasing age on organoleptic tenderness may be manifested through a drying effect during cookery. These results indicate that the muscles of the ovine leg vary in palatability attributes and that cooking loss appears to affect organoleptic evaluations of both tenderness and juiciness. Increasing chronological age has a detrimental effect on tenderness measured organoleptically or mechanically. The contribution of marbling to tenderness is questionable; however, increased marbling enhanced the juiciness of the r. femoris, v. lateralis and semitendinosus muscles.
Detection of human papillomavirus DNA by in situ hybridization and polymerase chain reaction in human papillomavirus equivocal and dysplastic cervical biopsies

One hundred twenty-one paraffin-embedded cervical biopsy specimens were tested for the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA by in situ hybridization and polymerase chain reaction. By in situ hybridization using probes for HPV types 6/11, 16/18, 31/33/35, 42/43/44, 51/52, and 45/56, HPV DNA was found in none of 20 normal/squamous metaplasia biopsy specimens, in one of 76 HPV equivocal biopsy specimens, in seven of 12 condyloma/mild dysplasia biopsy specimens, and in 12 of 13 moderate/severe dysplasia biopsy specimens. Polymerase chain reaction using HPV L1 consensus sequence primers followed by filter hybridization of the amplification products was positive for HPV DNA in two of 20 normal/squamous metaplasia biopsy specimens, in 23 of 76 HPV equivocal biopsy specimens, in eight of 12 condyloma/mild dysplasia biopsy specimens, and in 12 of 13 moderate/severe dysplasia biopsy specimens. Among biopsies that tested positive by polymerase chain reaction but that were negative by in situ hybridization, the most commonly identified HPV was type 16. We conclude that although HPV equivocal biopsy specimens contain HPV DNA more frequently than histologically normal tissue, the majority of biopsy specimens in this category test negative for HPV DNA. The clinical significance of a positive test for HPV, in the absence of unequivocal histologic changes, remains to be determined.
Intimate associations between the endogenous opiate systems and the growth hormone-releasing hormone system in the human hypothalamus

Abstract Although it is a general consensus that opioids modulate growth, the mechanism of this phenomenon is largely unknown. Since endogenous opiates use the same receptor family as morphine, these peptides may be one of the key regulators of growth in humans by impacting growth hormone (GH) secretion, either directly, or indirectly, via growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) release. However, the exact mechanism of this regulation has not been elucidated yet. In the present study we identified close juxtapositions between the enkephalinergic/endorphinergic/dynorphinergic axonal varicosities and GHRH-immunoreactive (IR) perikarya in the human hypothalamus. Due to the long post mortem period electron microscopy could not be utilized to detect the presence of synapses between the enkephalinergic/endorphinergic/dynorphinergic and GHRH neurons. Therefore, we used light microscopic double-label immunocytochemistry to identify putative juxtapositions between these systems. Our findings revealed that the majority of the GHRH-IR perikarya formed intimate associations with enkephalinergic axonal varicosities in the infundibular nucleus/median eminence, while endorphinergic-GHRH juxtapositions were much less frequent. In contrast, no significant dynorphinergic-GHRH associations were detected. The density of the abutting enkephalinergic fibers on the surface of the GHRH perikarya suggests that these juxtapositions may be functional synapses and may represent the morphological substrate of the impact of enkephalin on growth. The small number of GHRH neurons innervated by the endorphin and dynorphin systems indicates significant differences between the regulatory roles of endogenous opiates on growth in humans.
Study of structural phase transition in MgSe

Abstract Total energy of MgSe as a function of unit cell volume has been calculated for the wurtzite, zinc-blende, and rocksalt phases by the periodic Hartree-Fock method. The calculated results suggest the crystallization of MgSe in the wurtzite phase at ambient conditions. No phase transition from wurtzite to zinc-blende is predicted which is found to be about 0.05 eV higher than wurtzite at equilibrium volume. For the phase transition to the rocksalt phase, the transition pressure comes out to be about 60 GPa. Analysis of electronic structure at equilibrium volume shows the minimum band gap to be indirect in the high-pressure phase of MgSe.
Etching of uranium oxide with a non-thermal, atmospheric pressure plasma

Abstract The etching of uranium oxide films was investigated with a non-thermal, atmospheric pressure plasma fed with a mixture of 2.0 kPa carbon tetrafluoride, 880.0 Pa oxygen and 97.2 kPa helium. Etching rates of up to 4.0 μm/min were recorded at a 200 °C sample temperature. X-ray photoemission spectroscopy revealed that the etched surface was highly fluorinated, containing UOF4 species during the etching process. An average surface reaction rate was estimated to be 1.9 × 1019 UF6 molecules/m2 s.
Capitalism and Its Discontents: Back-to-the-Lander and Freegan Foodways in Rural Oregon

During an assessment of food needs and habits in rural Western Oregon, back-to-the-landers and freegans emerged as two groups that resist the global industrial food system by tapping into pre-capitalist subsistence patterns. Subsistence agriculture provides the inspiration for back-to-the-landers while freegans are akin to modern day foragers, living off the waste of others and on what they can gather in the wild. In this article, I describe the foodways of these two groups and suggest ways in which they might help articulate a post-capitalist food economy, using the work of J. K. Gibson-Graham and the Community Economies Collective. 1
TR-MUSIC inversion of the density and compressibility contrasts of point scatterers

Time-reversal imaging with multiple signal classification (TR-MUSIC) is a super-resolution ultrasound imaging method for detecting point scatterers. This algorithm assumes that there is no contrast between the density of the point targets and that of the background medium, and that ultrasound scattering is caused only by the compressibility contrast. We modify the TR-MUSIC algorithm to account for ultrasound scattering from point targets with both density and compressibility contrasts. In addition, we develop an inversion method for estimating the density and compressibility contrasts of point scatterers with known locations. This approach is an extension of the inversion method previously developed by Devaney et al. for estimating the scattering strengths of point targets that have no density contrasts relative to the background medium. We use numerical phantom data to demonstrate that our new TR-MUSIC inversion algorithm can reliably estimate the density and compressibility contrasts of point scatterers. The estimates of these properties could be used for distinguishing breast calcifications from other tissue scatterers.
Including a diversity criterion in decision making

We introduce a measure of diversity related to the problem of selecting n objects from a pool of candidates lying in q categories. We introduce the concept of target diversity index (TDI) and describe various agendas for defining it. We look at the problem of trying to select elements to satisfy some desirable criterion that additionally satisfies a requirement of being diverse. We suggest some aggregation methods for combining these multiple criteria. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prevention of Blood Coagulation by Antibiotics in vitro

SummaryWhen examined in vitro, streptomycin, penicillin, oxytetracyclene (“terramycin”) and neomycin were anticoagulants only when used in greater concentrations than can be attained in vivo.
Should healthy people take calcium and vitamin D to prevent fractures? What the US Preventive Services Task Force and others say.

The USPSTF recently threw cold water on the use of these supplements, but the findings need to be put in context.
Comparative activities of rabbit complements of different ages using an in-vitro marrow purging model

Abstract In order to determine the best time to obtain complement for use in marrow purging in vitro, we have used 51Cr-release and limiting dilution assays (LDA) to evaluate the ability of serum from rabbits 20–30 (25d), 30–40 (35d) and 40–50 (45d) days old to lyse a series of neoplastic target cells in the presence of complement activating antibodies. Utilizing a limiting dilution assay (LDA) to measure log depletion of tumor cells in a 20-fold excess of normal bone marrow, treatment with monoclonal antibody and 25d complement depleted at least 4 logs of leukemia or lymphoma cells. 35d and 45d complements were approximately one log less effective. When normal bone marrow alone was treated with either J5 (CD10) antibody alone, each complement alone or a combination of J5 antibody with each complement, there was no significant depletion of hematopoietic progenitors in any subgroup. These results suggest that complement from 20–30 day old rabbits should be used for the purpose of ex-vivo purging due to its highly sensitive and specific activity.
Citrovorum factor and oviduct response to stilbestrol in aminopterin-treated chicks.

SummaryData have been presented which show that Citrovorum Factor (CF) in a ratio to aminopterin of approximately 16:1, but not of 2:1, counteracts aminopterin inhibition of stilbestrol stimulation of the chick oviduct, while pteroylglutamic acid (PGA) in a ratio to aminopterin of 500:1 is 81% effective in this regard. That CF can substitute for PGA in permitting stilbestrol stimulation of the chick oviduct is further evidence consistent with the theory that CF is a metabolically active form of PGA.
Use of Micro Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in Roadside Condition Surveys

Micro unmanned aerial vehicles (MUAVs) that are equipped with digital imaging systems and Global Positioning System (GPS) provide a potential opportunity for improving the effectiveness and safety of roadside condition and inventory surveys. This paper provides an assessment of the effectiveness of MUAVs as a tool for collecting condition and inventory data for roadside infrastructure assets using a field experiment. The field experiment entails performing a level of service (LOS) condition assessment on 10 roadway sample units on IH-20 in Tyler, Texas. The condition of these sample units was assessed twice: onsite (i.e., ground truth) and by observing digital images (still and video) collected via a MUAV. The results of these surveys are analyzed to determine if there are statistically significant differences in the standard deviation and mean values of the condition ratings. Additionally, the operational performance of the MUAV was observed in various weather and field conditions. The results of this study will help transportation agencies to decide if MUAV technology can be adopted for inventory and condition surveys of roadside assets and maintenance activities.