cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The rfb locus from Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain PA103 promotes the expression of O antigen by both LPS‐rough and LPS‐smooth isolates from cystic fibrosis patients

Strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa initially isolated from patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) often express a smooth lipopolysaccharide (LPS) containing many long O side-chain antigens, but once a chronic infection is established, strains recovered from these patients express little or no LPS O antigen. The genetic basis for this loss of O antigen expression by P. aeruginosa CF isolates is unknown. We report here that 20 CF isolates of P. aeruginosa, 13 of which are LPS-rough, were each capable of expressing serogroup O11 antigen when provided with the rfb locus from P. aeruginosa serogroup O11 strain PA103 on the recombinant plasmid pLPS2. Eight of the thirteen LPS-rough isolates co-expressed another, presumably endogenous, O antigen when they contained pLPS2. Different subcloned regions of pLPS2 complemented distinct strains to restore endogenous O antigen expression. These data suggest that the loss of O antigen expression by P. aeruginosa CF isolates results from alterations specific to the rfb region, and is not due to mutations involving other loci or ancillary LPS genes.
489 CONSEQUENCES OF COLONIZATION WITH GROUP B STREPTOCOCCI (GBS): INFECTION VS PREMATURITY AND/OR FETAL LOSS. WHICH RISK IS GREATER?

489 CONSEQUENCES OF COLONIZATION WITH GROUP B STREPTOCOCCI (GBS): INFECTION VS PREMATURITY AND/OR FETAL LOSS. WHICH RISK IS GREATER?
Nuclear and cytoplasmic receptors for 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol in intestinal mucosa.

The apparent hormonal form of cholecalciferol, 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (1,25-(OH)2-CC), was incubated with intestinal mucosa homogenates and whole intestinal tissue, in vitro. After 40–70 min, 1,25-(OH)2-CC was specifically associated with the nuclear chromatin fraction. This sterol remains bound to the cytosol fraction at 0°C and a dramatic movement to the nuclear chromatin occurs at 37°C indicating that the subcellular localization of the sterol is temperature dependent. Isolated intestinal cytosol, previously incubated with 1,25-(OH)2-CC, is required for transportation of the hormone to the intestinal chromatin fraction; cytosol fractions from other tissues are ineffective mediators of this sterol migration. It is concluded that the intestinal cytosol contains a specific receptor that functions to transport 1,25-(OH)2-CC to the nucleus, its probable site of action.
Thermodynamics of hydrogen-isotope-exchange reactions. Proton solvation in n-hexanol and water

This paper reports our results for the direct experimental determination of the equilibrium constant for the hydrogen-isotope-exchange reaction, 1/2D2(g)+HCl(hexOH)=1/2H2(g)+DCl(hexOD), where hexOH isn-hexanol and hexOD isn-hexanol with deuterium substitution in the alcohol function. The reaction was studied in electrochemical double cells without liquid junction for which the net cell reaction is the above isotope-exchange reaction. The experimentally determined value of e° (296.0°K) for this cell is 4.03±0.95 mV (strong electrolyte standard states, mole-fraction composition scale); the value of the equilibrium constant for the reaction is 1.17±0.05. The contributions of isotope-exchange and transfer effects to the magnitude of the standard Gibbs energy change for the above reaction and for the analogous reaction 1/2D2(g)+HCl(aq)=DCl(daq)+1/2H2(g) are considered. Our results support the conclusion of Heinzinger and Weston that the formulation of the solvated proton in water as H3O+, as opposed to H9O4 +, is sufficient for the interpretation of the thermodynamics of hydrogen-isotope-exchange reactions in water. We also find that the formulation of the solvated proton inn-hexanol as ROH 2 + is sufficient for the interpretation of our results on the thermodynamics of hydrogen-isotope-exchange inn-hexanol.
Ultraviolet spectra of coumarins and psoralens

Abstract The π → π ∗ transitions of coumarins in the ultraviolet region have been described on the basis of fluorescence polarization, dichroic spectra, and SCF MO CI results. The two lowest π → π ∗ transitions in coumarin, 4-hydroxy-coumarin, and psoralen were found to be polarized nearly parallel to each other, probably along the long molecular axis. The two lowest π → π ∗ transition moments in 8-methoxypsoralen were found to be oriented with a substantial angle between them, in contrast to the case of coumarin and psoralen. It was not possible to identify any n → π ∗ bands as they are probably obscured by the strong π → π ∗ bands.
GLI2 Transcription Factor Mediates Cytokine Cross-talk in the Tumor Microenvironment

Tumor cells interact with their surrounding microenvironment to survive and persist within the host. Cytokines play a key role in regulating this crosstalk between malignant cells and surrounding cells in the microenvironment. Although this phenomenon is clearly established, the molecular mechanisms mediating this cellular event remain elusive. Here, using as a model bone marrow stromal cells, we describe a novel signaling mechanism initiated by CCL5 in these cells leading to up-regulation of immunoglobulin secretion by malignant B cells. CCL5 increases IL-6 expression and secretion in bone marrow stromal cells. IL-6 in turn induces Ig secretion by malignant B cells. Analysis of the mechanism reveals that CCL5 signaling induces GLI2 through a PI3K-AKT-IκBα-p65 pathway and requires GLI2 transcriptional activity to modulate IL-6 expression and Ig secretion in vitro and in vivo. Together, these results identify a novel signaling pathway mediating the stromal-cancer cell interactions, leading to increased Ig production by malignant cells.
The Future of NATO Expansion: Four Case Studies

In 1999 three East-Central European states (Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic) gained membership in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Professor Barany argues that, once it began, the Alliance should continue the enlargement process. Nevertheless he maintains that only states that satisfy NATO's membership criteria should be allowed to join. Through an extensive analysis of four countries, Bulgaria, Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia who, at the time of the book's original publication in 2003 were NATO aspirants, Barany demonstrates that they were in several important respects unprepared for membership and that there was no pressing reason for NATO's haste. Barany argues that while NATO should be clear that its doors remain open to qualified candidates, the Alliance should hold off further expansion until prospective members will become assets rather than liabilities.
Non-standard synchronization of clocks outside a rotating body

It has been known for years that it is only the round-trip speed of light that has physical significance. We show that even using this freedom, the synchronization gap, which is useful for testing predictions of general relativity, still remains.
Discrete free—free and free—bound spectra from classical trajectories

Abstract A calculation of bound—free and free—free transition frequencies and intensities is presented for a well studied model occurring in a collinear scattering of a particle with a harmonic oscillator.
Defoliation and bark harvesting affect life-history traits of a tropical tree

Summary 1. Selectively harvesting whole individuals in managed populations (e.g. fisheries, hunting) has substantial effects on life expectancy and age at maturity. Although demographic rates of trees are impacted by recurrent harvest of plant organs (e.g. fruit, leaf, bark) known as non-timber forest products, the effect of such harvesting on life-history traits is less explored. 2. Here, we investigate how different strategies of foliage and bark harvest by local people affect life expectancy and age at maturity of Khaya senegalensis across two climatic regions in West Africa. We compare elasticities of life expectancy to perturbation of vital rates to the elasticities of population growth rate, emphasizing how the two kinds of elasticity address distinct biological issues and management goals. 3. Life expectancy was shorter and reproduction delayed in the dry than in the moist region, indicating a cost of drought to life-history traits. Harvesting at constant rates only affects (increased) life expectancy in the moist region and (reduced) age at first reproduction in the dry region. 4. Models in which harvest intensity varies stochastically over time show results similar to those with constant harvesting rate. However, there is an interactive effect of harvest on life-history traits between regions. Increasing harvesting pressure accelerates maturity and reduces life expectancy in the dry region but delays reproduction and increases life expectancy in the moist region. This indicates that stochasticity magnifies the effect of harvesting on life-history traits. 5. With the notable exception of heavily harvested populations in the moist region, life expectancy is more elastic to survival of early rather than late life stages. This pattern contrasts with the elasticity of population growth rate; the latter is more elastic to survival of late rather than early life stages. 6. Synthesis. Our results suggest that plant harvesting can affect life-history traits but in different ways across an environmental gradient. Failure to account for stochasticity in harvesting rate can mask some of these effects. Our results also indicate that processes driving plant life expectancy, at least for long-lived species, may differ from those driving population dynamics.
Homologues of wheat ubiquitin-conjugating enzymes--TaUBC1 and TaUBC4 are encoded by small multigene families in Arabidopsis thaliana.

Covalent attachment of ubiquitin to other cellular proteins has been implicated in a multitude of diverse physiological processes in eukaryotes including selective protein degradation. This attachment is carried out by a multi-enzyme pathway consisting of three classes of enzymes: ubiquitin-activating enzymes (E1s), ubiquitin-conjugating enzymes (E2s), and ubiquitin-protein ligases (E3s). E2s accept activated ubiquitin from E1 and conjugate it to target proteins with or without the participation of specific E3s. Previously, we have isolated wheat cDNAs encoding 16 and 23 kDa E2s, TaUBC1 and TaUBC4, respectively. TaUBC1 shows structural homology to the yeast RAD6 E2 that is essential for DNA repair whereas TaUBC4 is related to the yeast ScUBC8 E2, both of which effectively conjugate ubiquitin to histones in vitro but as yet are without a known in vivo function. Here, we report the isolation of genomic and cDNA homologues of these genes from Arabidopsis thaliana. In Arabidopsis, both of these E2s are encoded by three member gene families. Members of the AtUBC1 gene family, comprising AtUBC1, 2 and 3, encode 150–152 amino acid proteins that are 83–99% identical to each other and TaUBC1 and contain four introns that are conserved with respect to position. Members of the AtUBC4 gene family, comprising AtUBC4, 5 and 6, encode 187–191 amino acid proteins that are 73–88% identical to each other and TaUBC4 and contain five introns that are conserved with respect to position. In contrast, AtUBC1-3 gene products are only 31–36% identical to those derived from AtUBC4-6. mRNA for each family was detected in Arabidopsis roots, leaves, stems, and flowers indicating that members of each family are expressed in most if not all tissues.
A puff pollutant dispersion model with wind shear and dynamic plume rise

Abstract A puff diffusion model, which includes wind shear and dynamic plume rise, is developed for numerical prediction of pollutant concentrations under unsteady and non-uniform flow conditions. The plume from a continuous source is treated as a series of puffs emitted successively from the source. Each puff is represented by a set of six tracer particles, which define the size, shape and location of the puff. Initially these particles are located at the surface of the source, on arbitrarily chosen orthogonal axes. The location of the particles is computed at each time step by taking into account advection, eddy diffusion, wind shear and entrainment of ambient air during plume rise. The concentration distribution of each puff is determined by fitting an ellipsoid to the cluster of the six particles and assuming a three-dimensional Gaussian distribution, with standard deviation equal to the half-lengths of the principal axes of the ellipsoid. The concentration at a point of interest is obtained by summing the contributions from nearby puffs. The effect of wind shear on the pollutant concentration is investigated by use of a typical wind shear encountered in the atmosphere. The results show that, at 600 m downstream from the source, the present model gives concentrations a factor of 2 higher and lower at one standard deviation below and above the plume center, respectively, than that of conventional models in which no wind shear is considered. The plume-rise formulation is calibrated against the observations compiled by Briggs and the model is used to predict the trajectory of a plume observed by Slawson and Csanady. Excellent agreement between the prediction and the observation can be achieved if an appropriate eddy diffusivity is chosen.
Adhesive properties of several impression material systems: Part II.

The tensile adhesive bond strength of five impression adhesive systems was studied: polysulfide, polyether, polyvinylsiloxane, condensation silicone impression, and polyvinylsiloxane putty adhesive systems. Results showed no significant difference in adhesive bond strength to autopolymerizing acrylic resin between the former four impression materials studied. Polyether and medium-viscosity polyvinylsiloxane demonstrated significantly higher adhesive bond strength to polystyrene than either polysulfide or condensation silicone. The medium-viscosity polyvinylsiloxane impression material showed significantly higher adhesive bond strength to polystyrene than autopolymerizing acrylic resin whereas polysulfide and condensation silicone impression materials adhered significantly better to autopolymerizing acrylic resin than polystyrene. The polyvinylsiloxane putty did not adhere to its impression adhesive. Variation of the speed of tensile testing between 5 to 20 inches per minutes did not affect the adhesive bond strength of a polysulfide impression material.
eBird: Curating Citizen Science Data for Use by Diverse Communities

In this paper we describe eBird, a highly successful citizen science project. With over 150,000 participants worldwide and an accumulation of over 140,000,000 bird observations globally in the last decade, eBird has evolved into a major tool for scientific investigations in diverse fields such as ornithology, computer science, statistics, ecology and climate change. eBird’s impact in scientific research is grounded in careful data curation practices that pay attention to all stages of the data lifecycle, and attend to the needs of stakeholders engaged in that data lifecycle. We describe the important aspects of eBird, paying particular attention to the mechanisms to improve data quality; describe the data products that are available to the global community; investigate some aspects of the downloading community; and demonstrate significant results that derive from the use of openly-available eBird data.
Long-term changes in dopaminergic innervation of caudate nucleus after continuous amphetamine administration

Silicone pellets containing d-amphetamine base were implanted subcutaneously in rats. These pellets release amphetamine continuously for at least 10 days. Several days after implantation, swollen dopamine axons concomitant with large decreases in tyrosine hydroxylase activity were observed in the caudate nucleus. Decreased tyrosine hydroxylase activity was still present 110 days after pellet removal in the caudate but not in several other brain regions, nor in the caudate of rats injected with an equivalent amount of amphetamine in daily injections. This implies that continuous amphetamine administration has a selective neurotoxic effect on dopamine terminals in the caudate.
Intraaortic Balloon Pumping for Ventricular Septal Defect or Mitral Regurgitation Complicating Acute Myocardial Infarction

The intraaortic balloon pump (IABP) has been employed in the management of five patients with ventricular septal rupture (VSD) and six patients with acute mitral regurgitation (AMR) following myocardial infarction. All patients were in cardiogenic shock which responded poorly to medical therapy including pressor and inotropic agents. IABP resulted in significant clinical and hemodynamic improvement in all cases. In patients with VSD, IABP produced a fall in wedge (PCW) pressure from 17 ± 4 (sd) to 13 ± 4 mm Hg (P < 0.01) while mean arterial pressure increased from 68 to 73 mm Hg. Systemic A-V O2 difference fell from 9.7 ± 2.4 to 8.1 ± 2.4 vol % (P < 0.05) while pulmonary A-V O2 difference was unchanged. Thus the pulmonic/systemic flow ratio (P/S) declined in all patients. In patients with AMR, PCW fell from 25 ± 4 to 20 ± 4 mm Hg (P < 0.02) with a significant diminution in "V"-wave amplitude. Cardiac output (CO) rose from 3.1 ± 0.9 to 3.7 ± 1.0 liters/min (P < 0.01). All patients underwent coronary angiog...
Silica sol‐gel encapsulation of cyanobacteria: lessons for academic and applied research

Cyanobacteria inhabit nearly every ecosystem on earth, play a vital role in nutrient cycling, and are useful as model organisms for fundamental research in photosynthesis and carbon and nitrogen fixation. In addition, they are important for several established biotechnologies for producing food additives, nutritional and pharmaceutical compounds, and pigments, as well as emerging biotechnologies for biofuels and other products. Encapsulation of living cyanobacteria into a porous silica gel matrix is a recent approach that may dramatically improve the efficiency of certain production processes by retaining the biomass within the reactor and modifying cellular metabolism in helpful ways. Although encapsulation has been explored empirically in the last two decades for a variety of cell types, many challenges remain to achieving optimal encapsulation of cyanobacteria in silica gel. Recent evidence with Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803, for example, suggests that several unknown or uncharacterized proteins are dramatically upregulated as a result of encapsulation. Also, additives commonly used to ease stresses of encapsulating living cells, such as glycerol, have detrimental impacts on photosynthesis in cyanobacteria. This mini-review is intended to address the current status of research on silica sol-gel encapsulation of cyanobacteria and research areas that may further the development of this approach for biotechnology applications.
Prevalence and Risk of Depression and Anxiety-Related Disorders During the First Three Years After Heart Transplantation

Although poor psychological adjustment to organ transplantation appears to be a major contributor to reduced quality of life and increased physical morbidity, the prevalence and risk factors for psychiatric disorder have not been considered beyond the first 12-18 months after transplantation. The authors enrolled a representative sample of 191 heart transplant recipients in a prospective examination of the prevalence, clinical characteristics, and risk factors for DSM-III-R major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), associated adjustment disorders, and posttraumatic stress disorder related to transplant (PTSD-T) during the 3 years postsurgery. Survival analysis indicates that cumulative risks for disorder onset were MDD, 25.5%; adjustment disorders, 20.8% (17.7% with anxious mood); PTSD-T, 17.0%; and any assessed disorder, 38.3%. There was only one case of GAD. PTSD-T onset was limited almost exclusively to the first year posttransplant. Episodes of MDD (but not anxiety disorders) that occurred later posttransplant (8 to 36 months postsurgery) were more likely than early posttransplant episodes to be treated with psychotropic medications. For both MDD and anxiety disorders, later episodes were less likely to be precipitated by transplant-related stressors than other life stressors. Factors increasing cumulative risk for psychiatric disorder posttransplant included pretransplant psychiatric history, female gender, longer hospitalization, more impaired physical functional status, and lower social supports from caregiver and family in the perioperative period. Risk factors' effects were additive; the presence of an increasing number of risk factors bore a dose-response relationship to cumulative risk of disorder.
Dimerization of the Trinuclear Mercury(II) Complex [(o-C6F4Hg)3·μ3-acetone] via Mercurophilic Interactions

In the crystalline state, the trinuclear mercury(II) complex [(o-C6F4Hg)3·μ3-acetone] forms cofacial dimers which are held by two mercurophilic interactions of 3.51 A. In this form, the complex displays an intense photoluminescence with a sharp emission centered at 480 nm.
Computational analysis of sequence selection mechanisms.

Abstract Mechanisms leading to gene variations are responsible for the diversity of species and are important components of the theory of evolution. One constraint on gene evolution is that of protein foldability; the three-dimensional shapes of proteins must be thermodynamically stable. We explore the impact of this constraint and calculate properties of foldable sequences using 3660 structures from the Protein Data Bank. We seek a selection function that receives sequences as input, and outputs survival probability based on sequence fitness to structure. We compute the number of sequences that match a particular protein structure with energy lower than the native sequence, the density of the number of sequences, the entropy, and the "selection" temperature. The mechanism of structure selection for sequences longer than 200 amino acids is approximately universal. For shorter sequences, it is not. We speculate on concrete evolutionary mechanisms that show this behavior.
Contact sensitizing potential of pyrogallol and 5-amino-o-cresol in female BALB/c mice

Hair dye components such as pyrogallol and cresol have been shown previously to promote allergic reactions such as rashes, dermal inflammation, irritation and dermatitis. The objective of this study was to determine the contact sensitization potential of pyrogallol (PYR) and 5-amino-o-cresol (AOC) when applied dermally to female BALB/c mice. Measurement of the contact hypersensitivity response was initially accomplished using the local lymph node assay. For PYR, significant increases in the proliferation of lymph node cells were observed at concentrations of 0.5% (w/v) and higher. For AOC, borderline increases, albeit significant, in auricular lymph node cell proliferation were observed at 5% and 10%. Results from the irritancy assay suggested that PYR, but not AOC, was an irritant. To further delineate whether PYR was primarily an irritant or a contact sensitizer, the mouse ear swelling test (MEST) was conducted. A significant increase in mouse ear thickness was observed at 72h following challenge with 0.5% PYR in mice that had been sensitized with 5% PYR. In contrast, no effects were observed in the MEST in mice sensitized and challenged with the highest achievable concentration of AOC (10%). Additional studies examining lymph node subpopulations and CD86 (B7.2) expression by B cells further support the indication that PYR was a sensitizer in BALB/c mice. The results demonstrate that PYR is both a sensitizer and an irritant in female BALB/c mice. However, the contact sensitization potential of AOC is minimal in this strain of mouse.
Non-primary afferents to the principal cells of the rostral anteroventral cochlear nucleus of the guinea pig.

The non-primary input to the soma of the principal cells of the rostral anteroventral cochlear nucleus (AVCN) of the guinea pig was defined by correlating data from freeze-fractured and thin-sectioned specimens. The principal cells receive three types of non-primary terminals in addition to a single end bulb from the ascending branch of the auditory nerve. The first, the O-boutons are irregularly shaped, medium-sized boutons, containing oval synaptic vesicles. These cover about 13% of the soma and each makes from one to three crescent-shaped axosomatic junctions. Paramembranous dense material is distributed symmetrically between the pre- and postsynaptic junctional membranes. The second, the F-bouton, is a small, ovate bouton which occurs either singly or in small clusters and covers about 5% of the soma. This bouton, containing flattened synaptic vesicles, has a single, oval synaptic junction lined by thin, paramembranous densities distributed symmetrically between the pre-and postsynaptic membranes. The third, the SR-bouton, is a medium-sized bouton containing small, round synaptic vesicles. These boutons cover about 4% of the soma, but more frequently contact dendrites in the neuropil. The junctional region of the bouton is poorly defined. Small tufts of dense material symmetrically line the cytoplasmic surfaces of the pre- and postsynaptic membranes along scattered, narrow undulations of the apposition. In freeze-fracture replicas, several narrow troughs on the cytoplasmic leaflet frequently have a higher density of large intramembranous particles than adjacent membrane and may represent a diffusely organized active zone. No specializations are found on either leaflet of the postsynaptic plasmalemma opposite the non-primary boutons. Correlation of the measurements from thin-sectioned and freeze-fractured material suggests that the oval, flattened, and small round vesiclecontaining boutons occur on the somata of the principal cells in a ratio of 6:3:1.
Separation and detection of organic acids on silica gel

Abstract Thin-layer chromatography of water soluble organic acids on silica gel H with a water-saturated diethyl ether-formic acid (7:1) developing system is a rapid, satisfactory qualitative method of analysis. In combination with good extraction procedures, the technique should prove particularly useful for the separation of specific groups of acids and for the detection of specific metabolic products or reactions. Particularly advantageous is the quantitative determination of radioactively labeled organic acids by gel removal and liquid scintillation counting. The formation of molybdenum blue by reduction of silicomolybdic acid on silica gel is a sensitive indicator for some organic acids and certain other organic compounds.
Nonlinear electroabsorption cell for artificial neural networks

A nonlinear electroabsorption cell that has possible practical applications in the development of artificial neural networks is described. The properties of the cell are based on cross modulation of light in semi-insulating GaAs in the presence of an electric field. The electroabsorption cell has memory capability and similar nonlinear input–output characteristics to the neuron. The cell can be incorporated in an artificial neural network consisting of parallel interconnects and feedback.
Vane Method to Evaluate the Yield Stress of Frozen Ice Cream

Abstract The ability of ice cream to be dipped or scooped is a direct consequence of yield stress; however, yield stresses of frozen ice cream have not been quantified because of the lack of suitable testing equipment. This work presents the experimental equipment and methodology to solve this problem. A vane tester was designed, constructed, and then used to measure the yield stress of ice cream at typical scooping temperatures of –16 to –14°C. The moisture and fat contents of each brand varied significantly. Yield stresses ranged from 2.5 to 8.0 kPa. In general, the yield stress of chocolate was higher than the yield stress of vanilla ice cream. Also, yield stresses decreased as temperature increased. Yield stress and temperature were highly correlated in the higher fat ice cream; the lower fat brand did not show a strong correlation.
Tonic immobility as a predator-defense in the rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

Proximity of either the experimenter or the home cage was found to affect speed of recovery from tonic immobility in rabbits. The closer the experimenter was to the rabbit during immobility, the slower the rabbit was to right itself. Conversely, the closer the home cage was to the rabbit, the more quickly the rabbit righted itself. Habituation of the response was not observed in rabbits in any of the groups. These results suggest that there may be species differences in habituation of tonic immobility because the response readily habituates in chickens. The effects of the proximity of the experimenter or home cage on speed of recovery from immobility support the hypothesis that this form of immobility serves as a defense against predation.
Systems Engineering and Project Management, an Ideal Partnership

An effective partnership of the Systems Engineer and the Project Manager on a project will greatly enhance the likelihood that the system will be delivered on schedule and on budget while meeting the needs of the end user. This is a partnership where project leadership is combined, playing to the strengths of each. Systems Engineering and Project Management represent two disciplines fundamental to the underlying success or failure of developing and deploying a complex system. Each of these disciplines has a systematic view of the system, offering each a perspective not afforded to the other development stakeholders. This partnership is paramount on a project of any complexity, how could it be over-looked? Even if these elements alone are brilliant in their own execution, the end result could be a disaster if there is not an alignment and cohesive execution of the two disciplines.
Angiogenic Gene Therapy A Leg to Stand On

Gene therapy for cardiovascular disease offers some of the greatest opportunities and challenges in the growing field of molecular medicine. The challenges in this field fall into three broad categories. The first relates to our state of knowledge regarding the biology of the diseases we wish to target, which must be sufficiently advanced to identify appropriate genes as targets for manipulation. The second relates to the development of biological vector systems that are suitable for genetic modification of the cardiovascular system, combining efficiency of gene transfer, ease of preparation, and acceptable side effect profile. The third relates to gene vector delivery technologies, which must be tailored to the particular requirements of the cardiovascular system and the disease to be treated. The report by Tsurumi and colleagues1 in this issue of Circulation takes advantage of recent progress in all three areas to demonstrate that although gene therapy for selected cardiovascular syndromes is not yet a clinical reality, it may no longer be only a distant speck on the therapeutic horizon. Peripheral vascular disease, predominantly affecting the lower extremities, has a relatively low mortality but results in considerable morbidity and disability. Both angioplasty and reconstructive surgery are effective treatment options for many patients with peripheral arterial insufficiency, restoring adequate perfusion and resulting in the alleviation of disabling symptoms. However, these procedures are associated with considerable risks, notably restenosis after peripheral angioplasty and cardiac complications of vascular surgery. In addition, the severity and progressive nature of this disease often limit these treatment options, resulting in persistent, disabling symptoms or limb loss. Peripheral vascular disease represents an attractive …
Strategic R&D policy and appropriability

Abstract The Spencer-Brander argument for strategic RD Journal of International Economics, 1994, 36, 133–150) that R&D subsidies are an optimal policy in the presence of uncertainty.
Initial Category Cues and Recognition Memory Foils for the Cognistat Verbal Memory Alternate Word List

The Cognistat is a widely used screening instrument for the evaluation of higher cerebral functioning. The Verbal Memory subtest contains an alternate word list without the cuing (i.e., category prompts) and recognition stimuli presented with the primary word list. This leaves the examiner responsible for creating nonstandardized category cues and recognition memory foils when the alternate task is employed. We developed a categorization questionnaire to obtain cuing and recognition items for the alternate word list. Two groups of participants were evaluated: a young sample (n = 518) and an elderly sample (n = 43). Data for the cuing and recognition phases of the alternate verbal memory word list are presented.
Hypermedia structures and the division of labor in meeting room collaboration

The type of collaboration for a group, whether working in parallel or collectively, is a style for a group influenced by many factors, among them the technology that the group works with. In an empirical study using the DOLPHIN system, we focused on the effect that using hypermedia structures in an electronic meeting room had on collaborative style. We found that groups who created documents using hypermedia were: 1) more likely to divide up their labor and work in parallel, and 2) to have a slower frequency of switching between the task phases of planning and developing ideas. We present a model to explain this effect of hypermedia on task division which suggests the involvement of mechanical and semantic components. We also discuss how DOLPHIN supports awareness of others people's activities for a parallel collaborative style.
ERGODIC TRANSFORMATIONS AND SEQUENCES OF INTEGERS

Using an ergodic transformation defined on an infinite measure space, we discuss complements in ℤ of the setA consisting of finite sums of odd powers of 2.
Statistical analysis of ECC bypass data using a nonlinear constrained maximum likelihood estimation technique

Abstract Recently much attention has been focused on the problem of developing models which describe the partial penetration of ECC water into the lower plenum of a pressurized water reactor (PWR) during a postulated loss-of-coolant accident (LOCA). To date model parameters have been estimated using inappropriate classical statistical techniques which assume that only one of the experimental variables is subject to error and that it is functionally related to a set of independent experimental variables which are not subject to error. A nonlinear constrained maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) technique is discussed and illustrated which incorporates several nonstandard features, including errors in all variables, into the estimation procedure. This technique places the statistical analysis of ECC bypass data on a solid theoretical foundation. The technique is illustrated by sample calculations of estimates of the parameters in a modified form of the Wallis flooding correlation.
Protein-Protein Ratchets: Stochastic Simulation and Application to Processive Enzymes

Interaction between a protein and a series of binding sites on a cytoskeletal substrate can create a resistance, or "protein friction," as the protein is moved along the substrate. If attachment and detachment rates are specified asymmetrically, this resistance can depend on the direction of movement, and the binding interaction acts as a ratchet. Stochastic computer simulations have been used to examine this type of protein-protein interaction. The performance of a protein-protein ratchet in the piconewton and nanometer range is significantly limited by thermal fluctuations, which in experimental measurements with single molecules are evident as Brownian motion. Simulations with a two-component model combining a conventional motor enzyme model with a protein-protein ratchet confirm previous suggestions that the processive movement of a single motor enzyme molecule against a load, as seen in experiments with inner arm dynein molecules, might be made possible by an accessory protein interaction that prevents backward slippage. When this accessory protein interaction is defined so that it acts as a ratchet, backward slippage can be prevented with minimal interference with forward progression.
The use of geologic and seismologic information to reduce earthquake Hazards in California

Five examples illustrate how geologic and seismologic information can be used to reduce the effects of earthquakes Included are procedures for anticipating damage to critical facilities, preparing, adopting, or implementing seismic safety studies, plans, and programs, retrofitting highway bridges, regulating development in areas subject to fault-rupture, and strengthening or removing unreinforced masonry buildings. The collective effect of these procedures is to improve the public safety, health, and welfare of individuals and their communities.
Sphingolipids and mitochondrial apoptosis

The sphingolipid family of lipids modulate several cellular processes, including proliferation, cell cycle regulation, inflammatory signaling pathways, and cell death. Several members of the sphingolipid pathway have opposing functions and thus imbalances in sphingolipid metabolism result in deregulated cellular processes, which cause or contribute to diseases and disorders in humans. A key cellular process regulated by sphingolipids is apoptosis, or programmed cell death. Sphingolipids play an important role in both extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathways depending on the stimuli, cell type and cellular response to the stress. During mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis, multiple pathways converge on mitochondria and induce mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization (MOMP). MOMP results in the release of intermembrane space proteins such as cytochrome c and Apaf1 into the cytosol where they activate the caspases and DNases that execute cell death. The precise molecular components of the pore(s) responsible for MOMP are unknown, but sphingolipids are thought to play a role. Here, we review evidence for a role of sphingolipids in the induction of mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis with a focus on potential underlying molecular mechanisms by which altered sphingolipid metabolism indirectly or directly induce MOMP. Data available on these mechanisms is reviewed, and the focus and limitations of previous and current studies are discussed to present important unanswered questions and potential future directions.
Church's thesis without tears

The modern theory of computability is based on the works of Church, Markov and Turing who, starting from quite different models of computation, arrived at the same class of computable functions. The purpose of this paper is the show how the main results of the Church-Markov-Turing theory of computable functions may quickly be derived and understood without recourse to the largely irrelevant theories of recursive functions, Markov algorithms, or Turing machines. We do this by ignoring the problem of what constitutes a computable function and concentrating on the central feature of the Church-Markov-Turing theory: that the set of computable partial functions can be effectively enumerated. In this manner we are led directly to the heart of the theory of computability without having to fuss about what a computable function is.The spirit of this approach is similar to that of [RGRS]. A major difference is that we operate in the context of constructive mathematics in the sense of Bishop [BSH1], so all functions are computable by definition, and the phrase “you can find” implies “by a finite calculation.” In particular if P is some property, then the statement “for each m there is n such that P(m, n)” means that we can construct a (computable) function θ such that P(m, θ(m)) for all m. Church's thesis has a different flavor in an environment like this where the notion of a computable function is primitive.One point of such a treatment of Church's thesis is to make available to Bishopstyle constructivists the Markovian counterexamples of Russian constructivism and recursive function theory. The lack of serious candidates for computable functions other than recursive functions makes it quite implausible that a Bishopstyle constructivist could refute Church's thesis, or any consequence of Church's thesis. Hence counterexamples such as Specker's bounded increasing sequence of rational numbers that is eventually bounded away from any given real number [SPEC] may be used, as Brouwerian counterexamples are, as evidence of the unprovability of certain assertions.
Single-incision and dual-incision laparoscopic adjustable gastric band: evaluation of initial experience

Abstract Background The laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB) technique has been well described. Most surgeons have used a 4-trocar technique, with an additional incision for a liver retractor. Single incision (SI)-LAGB seeks to further decrease the invasiveness of the procedure. The purpose of the present report was to evaluate the safety and feasibility of SI-LAGB and the effect on the learning curve. Methods All cases performed from October 2008 to October 2009 were reviewed. Both true SI and dual-incision LAGB cases were included. The cases were performed through either a left paramedian or a transumbilical incision. The liver was retracted using the Nathanson retractor or an intracorporeal retractor. Results Of the 89 patients studied, 89% were women. Their mean age was 41 ± 12 years (range 19–74), and their body mass index was 46 ± 12 kg/m2 (range 32–63). The first 27 patients underwent dual-incision LAGB using the Nathanson retractor. The operative time was 45 ± 12 minutes (range 21–90). After the first 35 cases, a reduction in the operative time was observed (P = .03). Simultaneous hiatal hernia repair added an average of 11 minutes of operative time for 40 patients (45%). The conversion rate was 26% for the first 35 cases, 5% for the second 35 cases, and 0% for the last 19 cases. Conversion was represented by adding a 5-mm trocar or the Nathanson retractor. The length of stay was 7 ± 9 hours (range 2–36), and 81 patients (91%) qualified for outpatient surgery. The complications included 1 seroma, 1 reoperation because of band obstruction, and 1 case of esophageal dysmotility after surgery. Conclusion The results of our study have shown that SI-LAGB is a viable alternative to traditional LAGB and can be considered reliable, with low morbidity. The learning curve for consistent completion of SI-LAGB in our experience appeared to be the first 35 cases. We advise standardizing the procedure to facilitate the reproducibility of this technique.
Pressure Drop on the Cathode Side of a PEM Fuel Cell as a Diagnostic Tool for Detection of Flooding and Drying Conditions

An increase in pressure drop on the cathode side of PEM fuel cell is a reliable indicator of PEM fuel cell flooding. Flooding, i.e., liquid water accumulation inside the cell causes a rather erratic cell potential behavior — steady voltage drops followed by sudden voltage increases. The pressure drop in this case behaves similarly, i.e., increases as the water accumulates, and drops as the water is expulsed from the cell, however with an obvious and detectable upward trend. In an opposite case of fuel cell drying, the cell potential steadily decreases as the ionic resistance increases, while the pressure drop initially decreases as the last of the liquid water is being expulsed, and thereafter remains constant. By monitoring both pressure drop and cell resistance in an operational fuel cell stack it was possible to reliably diagnose either flooding or drying conditions inside the stack, which were intentionally created by adjusting the humidification and stack temperatures. Pressure drop, therefore, may be used to define a control strategy, i.e. to make decisions on corrective actions. In most cases, the pressure drop is a linear function of flow rate when a single phase (gas) is flown through a fuel cell since the flow is well in the laminar regime. When the gas starts to carry water droplets, such as the case when the fuel cell operates with fully saturated gases, the pressure drop departs from linearity. In addition, slugs of water, possibly present inside the fuel cell passages, create unsteady conditions.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Alterations of retinal inputs following striate cortex removal in adult monkey

The morphology of the retina and central retino-recipient nuclei was studied in two monkeys that had undergone total bilateral striate cortex removal as adults. These animals had been behaviorally tested for two years after lesioning and had demonstrated significant recovery of pattern vision. Light and electron microscopy and autoradiography were done on the central retino-recipient nuclei following a monocular intravitreal injection of 3H-proline. Light microscopic analysis of retinal ganglion cell number showed a 30% loss in the parafoveal retina due to retrograde trans-synaptic degeneration. The most striking central change in retinal axon distribution was in the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (dLGN) where the parvocellular but not the magnocellular region showed a marked reduction in retinal input. Despite the loss of almost all dLGN neurons through retrograde degeneration, at the EM level both parvocellular and magnocellular regions contained islands of neuropil made up of retinal and several other types of synaptic terminals as well as small dendrites and pale unidentified processes. Approximately equal numbers of retinal terminals were identified by EM autoradiography in both regions of dLGN, which did not explain the apparent differences in labeling between the two regions seen in the light microscope. A second change in central retinal pathways was found in the olivary pretectal nucleus where a significant loss of retinal input also occurred. A third change, but in the opposite direction, was found in the pregeniculate nucleus (PGN) where the area of retinal terminals appeared enlarged. The remaining central retino-recipient nuclei had the same distribution of retinal input as the control animals.
Short-range structure of Al-Mn and Al-Mn-Si aperiodic alloys

X-ray-absorption fine-structure results on the icosahedral Al-Mn and Al-Mn-Si, \ensuremath{\alpha}-(Al-Mn-Si), and decagonal Al-Mn alloys are presented. High-resolution first-shell Al radial distributions around Mn atoms were obtained using a newly developed, direct Fourier-transform method. The first and second Mn shells are analyzed in detail. The Al and Mn positions on the structural unit of the icosahedral phase are determined from these results. The result is in agreement with the speculation that the structural unit is a Mackay icosahedron (MI). Furthermore, it is found that about 40% of the MI units in the icosahedral phase have the same connection as that in \ensuremath{\alpha}-(Al-Mn-Si) and the average coordination number of the MI is about 7 in the icosahedral phase. The MI units also closely resemble those in the \ensuremath{\alpha} phase, including the distortion induced by the cubic packing of the MI's in \ensuremath{\alpha}-(Al-Mn-Si). These results suggest the presence of a short-range cubic environment in the icosahedral phase with an estimated correlation length of about 20 A\r{}. These results are in disagreement with both the completely random accretion of oriented MI units and a quasicrystalline arrangement of the MI. Results on the decagonal Al-Mn phase and the role of Si in icosahedral Al-Mn-Si are also discussed.