cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Low energy dislocation structures caused by sliding and by particle impact

Abstract Tribological processes cause large plastic strains and plastic strain gradients adjacent to the interface between the interacting materials. For sliding wear and erosion test specimens, the dislocation structures observed in the plastically deformed material are consistent with those expected when energy is minimized. Studies of these structures can contribute to our knowledge of deformation and dislocation substructures produced at large strains under other test conditions. Tribological processes also create patches or layers of mechanically mixed material on one or both of the contacting surfaces. This material is important in the generation of typical wear debris. Studies of the mechanically mixed material may also be helpful in understanding the structure and properties of ultrafine grained two-phase materials.
EFFECTIVE POTENTIALS AND QUANTUM FLUID MODELS: A THERMODYNAMIC APPROACH

We present a thermodynamic approach to introducing quantum corrections to the classical transport picture in semiconductor device simulation. This approach leads to a modified Boltzmann equation with a quantum corrected force term and to quantum corrected fluid, or quantum hydrodynamic models. We present the quantum interaction of electrons with a gate oxide barrier potential and quantum hydrodynamic simulations of a resonant tunneling diode as application examples.
Excitatory binocular neurons are lost following prismatic binocular dissociation in infant monkeys

Four infant rhesus monkeys had prismatic dissociation of binocular vision by viewing the world through prisms. Those monkeys tested previously for ability to utilize horizontal disparity cues in detection of dynamic random dot stereograms, were found here to have few excitatory binocular neurons in visual cortex (V1). Each eye was well represented in the monocular ability to drive cortical neurons, whilst stimulus orientation tuning appeared normal in the monocular neurons, but somewhat less sensitive in the remaining binocular neurons. Binocular dissociation early in life constitutes conditions unfavorable for the maintenance of neural connections delivering binocular excitation to the visual cortex.
Life cycle climate impacts of the US concrete pavement network

Life cycle assessment (LCA) offers a comprehensive approach to evaluate and improve the environmental impacts of pavements. First, a general pavement LCA methodology is created that describes the concepts necessary to conduct a comprehensive pavement LCA. Second, the methodology is applied to the life cycle of concrete pavements to quantify current emissions across the road network. System boundaries are drawn to include all phases of the pavement life cycle – materials production, construction, use, maintenance, and end of life. Greenhouse gas emissions are quantified for twelve functional units, which evaluate average conditions for each major roadway classification in the United States. The results present the relative contribution of each component in the life cycle, the annual emissions occurring during the 40-year analysis period, and the sensitivity of these results to model parameters. It is found for all roads that the majority of emissions occur in year one – from cradle-to-gate materials production, and pavement construction – primarily due to cement production. The results are most sensitive to traffic volume, and then to parameters affecting the cement production. Based on emissions and their sensitivity, the LCA results suggest three broad reduction approaches: reducing embodied emissions, reducing use phase emissions, and reducing end-of-life emissions.
Characterization of Rhodamine 6G-Doped Thin Sol-Gel Films

Rhodamine 6G- (R6G) doped thin sol-gel films were cast on glass microscope slides and characterized with the use of steady-state and time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy. The fluorescence intensity, photo-degradation under laser illumination, and excited-state decay kinetics were all investigated as a function of dopant concentration. The excited-state decay kinetics of highly doped films show clear evidence of R6G aggregation. Photodegradation under laser illumination is very interesting and is discussed in detail.
Biphasic pattern of histone gene expression during Drosophila oogenesis

Abstract The expression of histone genes during Drosophila oogenesis was compared to periods of DNA synthesis as well as to the pattern of actin gene expression. Accumulation of histone mRNAs was measured by RNA blot hybridization. Relatively low levels of histone mRNAs are present in egg chambers prior to stage 10, during the period of nurse and follicle cell polyploidization. Surprisingly, histone mRNAs accumulate rapidly and selectively after stage 10, coinciding with the onset of nurse cell degeneration and well after DNA synthesis and actin mRNA accumulation have ceased. A large proportion of the histone mRNAs is associated with polysomes at all times, indicating that expression of histone genes is not strictly coupled to DNA synthesis. The burst of histone mRNA accumulation near the end of oogenesis may provide a store of maternal histone mRNA to support the rapid cleavages that occur during early embryogenesis. These and previous results suggest that genes are independently regulated during differentiation of the Drosophila egg chamber.
Renal artery fibromuscular dysplasia in 2,640 renal donor subjects: a CT angiography analysis.

Abstract Purpose To present the incidence, demographics, and clinical presentation of patients diagnosed with renal fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) who underwent computed tomography (CT) angiography for evaluation of living renal donor protocol. Methods and Materials A retrospective review was performed from January 1, 2000, to December 31, 2011 on patients who underwent CT angiography for evaluation of living renal donor protocol. Of 2,640 patients identified, only patients with a diagnosis of FMD by the radiology report underwent independent reader evaluation of CT angiography for the presence of FMD and associated characteristics. The demographics, medical history, and presentation were reviewed using the electronic medical chart. Results The independent readers who evaluated CT angiography identified a diagnosis of FMD in 68 patients (2.6%; 59 female) with an average age of 52 years ± 10. Unilateral FMD was observed in 46 patients (68%), and bilateral FMD was observed in 22 patients (32%). Three patients had aneurysms of the renal artery. Comorbidities included hypertension (n = 21, 31%), dyslipidemia, (n = 13, 19%), history of migraines (n = 3, 4%), and history of smoking (n = 14, 21%). No patients had diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease, or family history of FMD. Of 21 patients (31%) with a history of hypertension, 13 patients (62%) were treated with antihypertensive medications. Conclusions The incidence of FMD in patients who underwent CT angiography for evaluation of living renal donor protocol is 2.6%.
A flow birefringence method for the determination of deoxyribonuclease activity.

Abstract A quantitative method for the study of deoxyribonuclease activity by means of a photocell-flow birefringence apparatus is described. The amount of elliptically polarized light transmitted by DNA or DNP solutions varried directly as the velocity gradient and the concentration of the DNA or DNP solutions. Salts decreased the flow birefringence. The decrease in flow birefringence due to the action of DNase is comparable to the data obtained by viscosimetry.
Copper is a potent inhibitor of both the canonical and non-canonical NFκB pathways

Copper is an essential trace element that plays key roles in many metabolic processes. Homeostatic regulation of intracellular copper is normally tightly controlled, but deregulated copper levels are found in numerous metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases, as well as in a range of neoplasms. There are conflicting reports regarding the exact role of copper in the regulation of NFκB-responsive genes, specifically whether copper leads to increased activation of the NFκB pathways, or downregulation. Here we show that increased intracellular levels of copper, using the ionophore clioquinol, leads to a potent inhibition of NFκB pathways, induced by multiple distinct stimuli. Addition of copper to cells inhibits ubiquitin-mediated degradation of IκBα by preventing its phoshorylation by the upstream IKK complex. Intriguingly, copper-dependent inhibition of NFκB can be reversed by the addition of the reducing agent, N-acetylcysteine (NAC). These results suggest that the oxidative properties of excess copper prevent NFκB activation by blocking IκBα destruction, and that NFκB activity should be assessed in diseases associated with copper excess.
Some functional inequalities, with application to Green's function

Some elementary inequalities for functional with functional derivatives of given sign are presented and proved. These are then applied to the study of Green's functions for diffusion processes in a medium with sources and sinks (or alternately to Green's functions for the Schrodinger operator). The resulting inequalities are shown to include as quite special cases the super and sub-additive inequalities of potential theory. One consequence of the generalization is that scattering length is also shown to have sub-additive properties.
The First Fluorescent Diboronic Acid Sensor Specific for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells Expressing Sialyl Lewis X

Carbohydrate antigens with subterminal fucosylation have been implicated in the development and progression of several cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Fluorescent sensors targeting fucosylated carbohydrate antigens could potentially be used for diagnostic and other applications. We have designed and synthesized a series of 26 diboronic acid compounds as potential fluorescent sensors for such carbohydrates. Among these compounds, 7q was able to fluorescently label cells expressing high levels of sLex (HEPG2) within a concentration range of 0.5 to 10 μM. This compound (7q) did not label cells expressing Lewis Y (HEP3B), nor cells without fucosylated antigens (COS7). This represents the first example of a fluorescent compound labeling cells based on cell surface carbohydrate structures.
Template Recognition in Inorganic−Organic Hybrid Films Prepared by the Sol−Gel Process

Inorganic−organic hybrid sol−gel processing has been utilized to fabricate thin, porous, chemically selective silicate films. These materials have been fabricated using a template-based approach that involves the formation of a cross-linked matrix around a specific reagent followed by removal of that reagent. The silica sol consisted of a hybrid mixture of functionalized organosilicon precursors (phenyltrimethoxysilane and methyltrimethoxysilane), a network former (tetramethoxysilane), and the template molecule, dopamine (DA). Silicate thin films were prepared by spin casting an aliquot of the composite sol on the surface of a glassy carbon electrode. Dopamine was extracted from the dried film via soaking in phosphate buffer, and the affinity and selectivity of the DA-templated films were characterized using cyclic voltammetry. The results show that the DA-templated films have an increased affinity for dopamine over that of structurally related molecules including serotonin, epinephrine, and dihydroxynaph...
Development of a functional schwann cell phenotype from autologous porcine bone marrow mononuclear cells for nerve repair.

Adult bone marrow mononuclear cells (BM-MNCs) are a potential resource for making Schwann cells to repair damaged peripheral nerves. However, many methods of producing Schwann-like cells can be laborious with the cells lacking a functional phenotype. The objective of this study was to develop a simple and rapid method using autologous BM-MNCs to produce a phenotypic and functional Schwann-like cell. Adult porcine bone marrow was collected and enriched for BM-MNCs using a SEPAX device, then cells cultured in Neurobasal media, 4 mM L-glutamine and 20% serum. After 6–8 days, the cultures expressed Schwann cell markers, S-100, O4, GFAP, were FluoroMyelin positive, but had low p75(NGF) expression. Addition of neuregulin (1–25 nM) increased p75(NGF) levels at 24–48 hrs. We found ATP dose-dependently increased intracellular calcium [Ca 2+] i, with nucleotide potency being U T P = A T P > A D P > A M P > a d e n o s i n e . Suramin blocked the ATP-induced [Ca 2+] i but α, β,-methylene-ATP had little effect suggesting an ATP purinergic P2Y2 G-protein-coupled receptor is present. Both the Schwann cell markers and ATP-induced [Ca 2+] i sensitivity decreased in cells passaged >20 times. Our studies indicate that autologous BM-MNCs can be induced to form a phenotypic and functional Schwann-like cell which could be used for peripheral nerve repair.
Clinical Features and Associated Systemic Diseases of HLA-B27 Uveitis

Purpose To delineate the clinical features, course, complications, and associated systemic diseases in patients with HLA-B27-associated uveitis. Methods We reviewed the records of 148 patients with HLA-B27-associated uveitis from two large uveitis practices. Results There were 127 (86%) white and 21 (14%) nonwhite patients, and a male-to-female ratio of 1.5:1. The median age at onset of uveitis was 32 years; eight patients (5%) had their first attack after age 55 years. Acute anterior uveitis was noted in 129 patients (87%), and nonacute inflammation was noted in 19 (13%). Ocular involvement was categorized as unilateral or unilateral alternating in 138 patients (93%), but ten patients (7%) had bilateral, concurrent disease. The median duration of an attack was six weeks, and the median number of recurrences for patients with more than 12 months of follow-up was three. Cataracts were associated with posterior synechiae (P = .03), increased intraocular pressure (P = .003), and cystoid macular edema (P = .04). An HLA-B27-associated systemic disorder was present in 83 patients (58%), 30 of whom were women, and it was diagnosed in 43 of the 83 patients as a result of the ophthalmologic consultation. Thirty-four (30%) of 112 patients had a family history of a spondyloarthropathy. Conclusions Although HLA-B27-associated uveitis is usually described as a disease of young white men, women and nonwhites may also be affected. A subgroup of patients have severe disease and consequently more complications. Most patients have an associated systemic disease, including women, who appear to have more atypical spondyloarthropathies. The systemic diseases were frequently undiagnosed before the onset of the ocular disease and before the uveitis consultation.
The effect of an electric field on self-sustaining combustion synthesis: Part I. modeling studies

An analysis of the effect of an electric field on self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS) reactions is presented. Using the synthesis of SiC as a model, the analysis showed that the imposition of a field results in a highly localized distribution of the current density. It was shown that the current is primarily restricted to the region just ahead of the combustion zone. Thus, in addition to the chemical heat release, this zone also includes heat release from an electric source, a value equivalent to σE2 where σ is the conductivity andE is the field. From the dependence of the degree of conversion to the product on the applied voltage, it is shown that the velocity of the combustion wave is linearly proportional to the field.
Safety and Efficacy of Pemetrexed in Maintenance Therapy of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Lung cancer incidence continues to rise and is the number one cause of cancer death in both men and women worldwide with projected 221,130 new cases and 156,940 deaths in the United States in 2011.1 Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) represents more than 85% of the cases with most patients having either locally advanced or metastatic disease at the time of initial diagnosis, and approximately 60%–70% of them have an adenocarcinoma histologic subtype. In the last three years, we have seen several advances in the management of NSCLC, with several factors playing an important role in the treatment decision making process. Maintenance therapy has been added to the algorithm of NSCLC management and Pemetrexed has been studied as single agent or in combination in this setting with recent studies showing safety and improved progression free survival (PFS) and/or overall survival (OS), still the disease for the most part has a dismal outcome. More research work needs to be done to identify which patients truly benefit from these approaches, and to whom we should offer maintenance or switch maintenance vs. close observation.
A CONCEPTUAL AND EMPIRICAL REEXAMINATION OF THE MEASUREMENT OF THE SOCIAL DESIRABILITY OF ITEMS: IMPLICATIONS FOR DETECTING DESIRABLE RESPONSE STYLE AND SCALE DEVELOPMENT

This paper calls into question traditional methods of measuring the social desirability of items and their use in scale construction. First, we make explicit that the proper focus for desirability studies of items and traits are the rated desirabilities of the alternative item responses indicating different trait levels. Second, the results from our first study show that the relation between degree of endorsement of an item and its judged desirability level is often nonlinear and varies across items such that no general model of item desirability can be adopted that will accurately represent the relations across all items, traits, and trait levels. In addition, the nature of these relationships can vary depending on whether desirability is considered in a work or general context. Third, results from a second study indicate specifically that people when instructed to self-present in a maximally desirable manner will choose for some attributes a moderate level of endorsement (e.g., “agree”) rather than a more extreme response option (e.g., “strongly agree”). Subjects offer several different reasons for viewing the less extreme response options, which yield more moderate trait level scores, as more desirable. These reasons are linked to perceptions of the more extreme response option as being associated with negative behaviors and concerns about how others will view a more extreme response to the item. Both studies indicate that desirable responding to personality items is more complex than previously believed.
Oxygen grain boundary diffusion in natural and hot-pressed calcite aggregates

Abstract Oxygen grain boundary diffusion rates were experimentally determined in natural (Solnhofen limestone) and hot-pressed calcite aggregates at 300 to 500°C and 100 MPa water pressure. The Solnhofen limestone was pre-annealed for 24 h at 700°C and 100 MPa confining pressure under anhydrous conditions to produce an equilibrium microstructure for the diffusion experiments. The synthetic calcite aggregates were formed by hot isostatic pressing of an intimate mixture of 1–2 μm calcite grains plus 5 wt% 0.3 μm alumina grains at 700°C and 200 MPa for 3–10 days. Values for the product of the grain boundary diffusion coefficient ( D ′) and the effective grain boundary diffusion width ( δ ) were determined from 18 O concentration profiles measured with an ion microprobe. There is no measurable difference between D ′ δ values obtained for pre-annealed Solnhofen samples and hot-pressed calcite aggregates; the temperature dependence for oxygen grain boundary diffusion at 100 MPa is described by the Arrhenius parameters D 0 ′ δ =3.8×10 −14 m 3 /s and Q =127±17 kJ/mol. Comparison of the results of this study with previously published data show that the rate of oxygen grain boundary diffusion in calcite aggregates is four to five orders of magnitude greater than that of volume diffusion in calcite single crystals, and the activation energy is less. Grain boundary diffusion of oxygen in calcite aggregates is five to six orders of magnitude greater than that of calcium, when the latter is extrapolated to the temperature range of this study. In addition, oxygen grain boundary diffusion rates in calcite aggregates are about a factor of 4–10 and ∼100 times greater than that in feldspar and quartz aggregates, respectively, under similar experimental conditions.
Linked flux analysis of nucleation in condensed phases

Abstract Linked flux analysis is applied to precipitation in condensed phases, accounting for possible solute depletion and volume diffusion in nucleation. The resulting differential equation, a type defying exact solution, is analyzed by time reversal to yield paths of activation, delay times and steady-state nucleation rates. Clusters approach critical size surrounded by an enriched matrix. Frequency factors for nucleation rate and delay time are proportional to a bulk rather than boundary diffusivity for all homogeneous nucleation not at constant composition. Further applications of the linked fluxes-time reversal approach are suggested.
Incidence of cutaneous T cell lymphoma and other rare skin cancers in a defined population

Between 1970 and 1984 in Rochester, Minnesota, rare skin cancers developed in 15 local residents: cutaneous T cell lymphoma (six subjects), dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (four), adenocarcinoma of sweat glands (two), Merkel cell carcinoma (one), liposarcoma (one), and extramammary Paget's disease (one). These cases were identified through a unique computerized retrieval system that is maintained at the Mayo Clinic for the population of Rochester, Minnesota. The annual incidences of these cancers in the Rochester population were 0.9, 0.5,0.3,0.2,0.2, and 0.2 per 100,000 residents, respectively (standardized to 1980 U.S. population). To our knowledge, this is the first report of the incidences of these rare skin cancers in a well-defined population.
Effects of Temperature and Density on Sediment Reworking by Stylodrilus Heringianus (Oligochaeta: Lumbriculidae)

A non-destructive, radio-marker system was used to follow sediment burial, or reworking rate, by the particle-feeding oligochaete Stylodrilus heringianus Claparede over a range of worm densities and water temperatures in laboratory microcosms. Marker layer burial rates were monitored for seven densities (30,000 to 134,000 worms m−2) while slowly altering the temperature from 10°C down to 4°C, up to 20°C, and then back to 10°C. From 10°C to 4°C, reworking rates decreased approximately 90%. When the temperature was increased above 4°C, reworking rates approached levels shown at the initial 10°C but remained relatively constant through the remainder of the experiment. It is assumed that reproductive activities, stimulated by the 4° C period, affected feeding activity. The reworking rate per worm was shown to be independent of the initial oligochaete density. Time dependent and depth dependent models were tested to examine the decline in observed reworking rates during the latter part of the experiment. There was a weak correlation between time and decreased reworking rates and a strong correlation between density and depth of feeding. Correlations suggested that reworking rates per worm remained similar over time, but the depth to which an organism fed increased with increasing worm density.
Hydroxycarbamide treatment in sickle cell disease: estimates of possible leukaemia risk and of hospitalization survival benefit.

Summary Using health insurance claims databases we compared the frequency/incidence of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) and inpatient mortality in sickle cell disease (SCD) subjects taking (n = 1051), or not taking (n = 9203) hydroxycarbamide (HC). Patients taking HC were older (median 19 vs. 17 years of age), had a higher proportion of males (53% vs. 38%), and their median hospitalizations per year was five times greater than in SCD patients not on HC (all P < 0·001). No new AML cases occurred in HC-treated paediatric SCD patients. For adults, the new AML incidence with HC exposure was 10·7/10 000 patient years, vs. 4·0/10 000 patient years in subjects not on HC (P = 0·2), a possible AML risk ratio of 3·18. Adjustment for a probable database bias for AML diagnosis/ascertainment lowered the risk ratio to 0·94 (95% confidence interval = 0·16–5·47). Despite their greater disease severity, the inpatient mortality in SCD adults prescribed HC (0·29%) was lower than that of patients not taking the drug (0·42%, P = 0·032). In this SCD population we find no increased risk for AML with HC treatment. If such a risk is eventually proven, it will probably be lower than that for drugs with known AML association. By contrast, HC treatment appears to confer a survival benefit.
Three-dimensional singular stress field near a partially debonded cylindrical rigid fiber

Abstract Asymptotic solutions to a class of problems pertaining to the stress fields in the neighborhood of a circular cylindrical partially debonded infinitely rigid fiber (inclusion) in a homogeneous isotropic linearly elastic matrix (plate), subjected to far-field extension-bending (mode I), inplane shear-twisting (mode II) and torsional (mode III) loadings, are presented. Two different combinations of boundary conditions are considered: (i) infinitely rigid fiber with partial axisymmetric debond, and (ii) infinitely rigid fiber with partial axisymmetric frictionless slip (Comninou type contact zone). Introduction of the Comninou type contact zone at the circumferential tip of an infinitely rigid fiber–matrix axisymmetric interfacial debond eliminates the oscillatory character of the deformation in the case of mode I/II loading, and the stress singularity altogether in the case of mode III loading. Numerical results presented include, whenever applicable, the effect of Poisson’s ratio on the computed eigenvalue(s).
Pili in Gram-positive bacteria: assembly, involvement in colonization and biofilm development

Various cell-surface multisubunit protein polymers, known as pili or fimbriae, have a pivotal role in the colonization of specific host tissues by many pathogenic bacteria. In contrast to Gram-negative bacteria, Gram-positive bacteria assemble pili by a distinct mechanism involving a transpeptidase called sortase. Sortase crosslinks individual pilin monomers and ultimately joins the resulting covalent polymer to the cell-wall peptidoglycan. Here we review current knowledge of this mechanism and the roles of Gram-positive pili in the colonization of specific host tissues, modulation of host immune responses and the development of bacterial biofilms.
Membrane Topology of Hedgehog Acyltransferase

Hedgehog acyltransferase (Hhat) is a multipass transmembrane enzyme that mediates the covalent attachment of the 16-carbon fatty acid palmitate to the N-terminal cysteine of Sonic Hedgehog (Shh). Palmitoylation of Shh by Hhat is critical for short and long range signaling. Knowledge of the topological organization of Hhat transmembrane helices would enhance our understanding of Hhat-mediated Shh palmitoylation. Bioinformatics analysis of transmembrane domains within human Hhat using 10 different algorithms resulted in highly consistent predictions in the C-terminal, but not in the N-terminal, region of Hhat. To empirically determine the topology of Hhat, we designed and exploited Hhat constructs containing either terminal or 12 different internal epitope tags. We used selective permeabilization coupled with immunofluorescence as well as a protease protection assay to demonstrate that Hhat contains 10 transmembrane domains and 2 re-entrant loops. The invariant His and highly conserved Asp residues within the membrane-bound O-acyltransferase (MBOAT) homology domain are segregated on opposite sides of the endoplasmic reticulum membrane. The localization of His-379 on the lumenal membrane surface is consistent with a role for this invariant residue in catalysis. Analysis of the activity and stability of the Hhat constructs revealed that the C-terminal MBOAT domain is especially sensitive to manipulation. Moreover, there was remarkable similarity in the overall topological organization of Hhat and ghrelin O-acyltransferase, another MBOAT family member. Knowledge of the topological organization of Hhat could serve as an important tool for further design of selective Hhat inhibitors.Hedgehog acyltransferase (Hhat) transfers palmitate onto Sonic Hedgehog, which is required for efficient signaling. Results Hhat membrane topology was determined using in silico and empirical methods. Conclusion Hhat contains 10 transmembrane domains and 2 re-entrant loops. Significance This analysis provides a framework for understanding the mechanism of action of Hhat and other membrane bound O-acyltransferase enzymes with protein substrates.
Androstenedione, Testosterone, and Estradiol Concentrations in Fetal and Maternal Plasma in Late Pregnancy in the Sheep*

Fetal and maternal plasma concentrations of androstenedione, testosterone, and estradiol were measured in chronically catheterized pregnant sheep during late gestation, spontaneous term delivery, and premature delivery induced by the infusion of low doses of synthetic ACTH-(1-24) (ACTH) to the fetus at 120-130 days gestation. RIAs employing two different antisera directed at different sites of each molecule were used in combination with Celite column chromatography to ensure the specificity of the hormone measurements. Fetal plasma concentrations of all three hormones were greater than the respective maternal concentration at all periods investigated, except immediately before ACTH-induced delivery when fetal testosterone and estradiol concentrations were lower. These observations further support the hypothesis that delivery in the sheep is associated with the induction of placental 17 alpha-hydroxylase and 17,20-lyase by the increased conversion of progesterone to estrogens. The higher values of androstenedione than of testosterone also support the view that estrone is produced in larger quantities than estradiol and that estrone and estrone sulfate are good endocrine markers of the progress of the endocrine changes occurring immediately before parturition in the sheep.
Multiple Nutritional Deficiencies and Metabolic Complications 20 Years after Jejunoileal Bypass Surgery

We have reported a patient with multiple nutritional and metabolic abnormalities following JI bypass. Most of her biochemical abnormalities were corrected with cautious but vigorous supplementation, and her nutritional status improved, as documented by several positive nitrogen balances and normalization of most of her vitamin and trace element serum concentrations. This case clearly demonstrates many of the metabolic complications that can result from the JI bypass procedure and the meticulous followup that is needed during nutritional rehabilitation.
Performance of an improved design for storage-type domestic electrical water-heaters

Abstract Performance of an improved design for storage-type domestic electrical water-heaters (EWHs) was experimentally investigated for energy conservation. The results were compared with those of conventional design EWHs having the same tank size and power rating. Data were obtained for two tanks with aspect ratios of 1 and 2, two draw-off rates of 5 and 10 l/min, and using three heating elements of different heights. It is found that improved design EWHs provide more hot water at almost constant temperature in the first mean residence time, which is of prime concern for the user. Thus, they exhibit higher discharging efficiencies due to better thermal stratification inside the heater storage tank. Also, thermal performance is enhanced with increasing tank aspect ratio and decreasing draw rate. These characteristics have a direct impact on energy consumption and result in lower electricity bills. The design improvements are simple to adapt as they only require minor modifications to be made to existing EWH models.
Utopia and ideology in Daughters of a Coral Dawn and contemporary feminist utopias

(1987). Utopia and ideology in Daughters of a Coral Dawn and contemporary feminist utopias. Women's Studies: Vol. 14, No. 2, pp. 119-133.
Stable semi‐explicit algorithms for non‐linear dynamic problems

Algorithmes iteratifs pour l'integration dans le temps de problemes dynamiques non lineaires de grande taille (calcul vectoriel); procedures d'acceleration pour ameliorer la stabilite et la convergence
Governmental Forest Policy for Sustainable Forest Management in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Nicaragua: Regulation, Implementation, and Impact

We evaluated how governmental forest regulation in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Nicaragua has succeeded or failed in fostering changes in forest owner and user behavior that enhance the sustainability of tropical forest management. As expected, sufficient resources and capacity for forest policy implementation are crucial for attaining governmental forest policy objectives, but innovative arrangements for promoting, enforcing, and verifying policy compliance can compensate for limited regulatory resources and processes. The findings also indicate that: the level of governmental commitment to sustainable forest management (SFM) was as important as total funding levels; a mix of government rules and incentives enhanced adoption of SFM; the incorporation of professional forest regents offset limited agency capacity; and forest certification enhanced SFM on forest concessions. Local level inducements and constraints that enhance or impede governmental forest policy adoption and compliance also were identified.
Spatial ability, throwing accuracy and man's hunting heritage

ATTENTION has recently been drawn1 to the indications that spatial ability—the ability to create, maintain and mentally transform a visual image1,2—has an X-linked recessive mode of inheritance in Caucasians1,3–8, with males having a proportionately greater facility1,9–12. At first glance, this result seems paradoxical in that such a presumably adaptive trait would not be expected to be transmitted on a recessive allele. If past selection pressures were exerted primarily on males, however in whom the spatial allele is co-dominant, the paradox would be resolved satisfactorily.
Evaluation of management strategies for reducing nitrogen loadings to four US estuaries.

Abstract In this study we used the Watershed Assessment Tool for Evaluating Reduction Strategies for Nitrogen (WATERSN) model to evaluate a variety of management strategies for reducing nitrogen (N) loads to four US east coast estuaries: Casco Bay, Long Island Sound, Chesapeake Bay and Pamlico Sound. These management strategies encompass reductions in atmospheric emissions and deposition of N from sources including, fossil fuel burning utility emissions and mobile NOx emissions, N treatment in wastewater and controls on agricultural N inputs. We find that in primarily urban watersheds biological removal of N in wastewater treatment produces the greatest reduction in N loading (32–57% reductions), while in less urban watersheds, reductions in agricultural loading are more effective (5–56% reductions) in decreasing N loads to coastal ecosystems. Because anthropogenic N inputs are derived from a variety of sources, we also examined an integrated scenario targeting all major N sources; this resulted in 35–58% reductions in N loading. Nitrogen pollution originates from multiple sources and is transported through several media (air, soil, water); a major challenge of the development of N management strategies will be the control of multiple sources to effectively reduce N loads to estuaries.
Genetic variation in direct and indirect measures of wood stiffness in coastal Douglas-fir

We studied wood stiffness (estimated by modulus of elasticity, MOE), wood density, wood moisture content, and growth in a progeny test (50-130 families per trait; 1-3 sites) of coastal Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii var. menziesii (Mirb.) Franco). We measured MOE directly using lumber bending tests (MOEbl) and indirectly using tools (HM200 and ST300) that can be used to measure acoustic velocity in logs (VelHM) or standing trees (VelST). Acoustic MOEs in logs and standing trees (MOEHM and MOEST) were obtained from the velocities and green wood density. For backward selection, we estimated genetic gains in MOEbl of 8.6%-12.3%. Relative efficiencies (REs), the relative gains in MOEbl expected from indi- rect selection for correlated traits, were 78%-93% for the HM200 traits, 57%-58% for the ST300 traits, 38% for the basic wood density of basal discs (Denbd), and 98% for the oven-dry density of logs estimated from the lumber (Denol). The HM200 is an efficient tool for improving MOEbl, but gains will be lower using the ST300 on standing trees. Indirect selection on Denbd should be used with caution because the RE was low and Denbd was negatively correlated with growth (-0.49 to -0.73). Resume´ : Les auteurs ont examinela rigiditedu bois (MOE), sa densite´, sa teneur en humiditeainsi que la croissance des arbres dans un test de descendance (50-130 familles par proprieteet 1-3 sites) de douglas de Menzies typique (Pseudotsuga menziesii var. menziesii (Mirb.) Franco). Le MOE a etemesurede maniere directe au moyen d'essais de flexion statique (MOEbl) avec des pieces de bois et de maniere indirecte au moyen d'appareils (HM200 et ST300) capables de mesurer la vitesse sonique dans des billes (VelHM) ou dans des arbres sur pied (VelST). Les MOE acoustiques (MOEHM et MOEST) ont eteobtenus apartir de ces vitesses et de la densitedu bois al'etat vert. Dans le cas de la selection en retour, les auteurs ont estimeque le gain genetique pour le MOEbl variait de 8,6-12,3 %. L'efficaciterelative (ER), soit le gain relatif en MOEbl espereala suite d'une selection in- directe pour les proprietes correlees, atteignait : 78-93 % pour les proprietes mesurees au moyen du HM200; 57-58 % pour les proprietes mesurees au moyen du ST300; 38 % pour la densitebasale des disques de souche (Denbd) et 98 % pour la densitean- hydre des billes estimeeapartir de pieces de bois (Denol). Le HM200 s'avere un outil efficace pour l'amelioration du MOEbl alors que les gains reliesal'utilisation du ST300 avec les arbres sur pied sont plus faibles. La selection indirecte apartir de la Denbd devrait etre pratiquee avec prudence puisque l'ER etait faible et que la Denbd etait negativement correlee avec la crois- sance (-0,49 a` -0,73). (Traduit par la Redaction)
Vector Hankel transform analysis of annular-ring microstrip antenna

A rigorous analysis of the resonant frequency characteristics of an annular-ring conductor printed on a dielectric substrate backed by a ground plane is presented. The problem is cast into a set of vector dual integral equations by using vector Hankel transform (VHT). Galerkin's method is then applied to compute the resonant frequencies of both transverse magnetic modes (TM 11 and TM 12 ) of the microstrip antenna. The real part of the resonant frequency shift of the TM 11 mode increases with increasing dielectric thickness in contrast to the TM 12 mode. While the TM 11 mode has a high Q , it is a poor radiating mode; the TM 12 mode is more suitable for antenna applications. For a probe excitation the input impedance is obtained using single mode approximation for both the TM 11 and TM 12 modes. It is shown that the TM 12 mode of the annular ring has a greater bandwidth than the TM 11 mode.
Informed Consent and Refusal of Treatment: Challenges for Emergency Physicians

Due to the distinctive features of the hospital emergency department and its patients, emergency physicians confront special challenges in respecting patient rights to informed consent to treatment. After a brief review of the doctrine of informed consent and of its significance in the emergency department, this article will examine three specific challenges for informed consent and refusal of treatment in emergency medicine: (1) assessing patient decision-making capacity, (2) performing procedures on the newly dead, and (3) making treatment decisions for patients in legal custody.
Fast NMR Data Acquisition From Bicelles Containing a Membrane-Associated Peptide at Natural-Abundance

In spite of recent technological advances in NMR spectroscopy, its low sensitivity continues to be a major limitation particularly for the structural studies of membrane proteins. The need for a large quantity of a membrane protein and acquisition of NMR data for a long duration are not desirable. Therefore, there is considerable interest in the development of methods to speed up the NMR data acquisition from model membrane samples. In this study, we demonstrate the feasibility of acquiring two-dimensional spectra of an antimicrobial peptide (MSI-78; also known as pexiganan) embedded in isotropic bicelles using natural-abundance 15N nuclei. A copper-chelated lipid embedded in bicelles is used to speed-up the spin–lattice relaxation of protons without affecting the spectral resolution and thus enabling fast data acquisition. Our results suggest that even a 2D SOFAST-HMQC spectrum can be obtained four times faster using a very small amount (∼3 mM) of a copper-chelated lipid. These results demonstrate that t...
Revisiting the Nucleotide and Aminoglycoside Substrate Specificity of the Bifunctional Aminoglycoside Acetyltransferase(6')-Ie/Aminoglycoside Phosphotransferase(2")-Ia Enzyme

The bifunctional aminoglycoside-modifying enzyme aminoglycoside acetyltransferase(6')-Ie/aminoglycoside phosphotransferase(2″)-Ia, or AAC(6')-Ie/APH(2″)-Ia, is the major source of aminoglycoside resistance in gram-positive bacterial pathogens. In previous studies, using ATP as the cosubstrate, it was reported that the APH(2″)-Ia domain of this enzyme is unique among aminoglycoside phosphotransferases, having the ability to inactivate an unusually broad spectrum of aminoglycosides, including 4,6- and 4,5-disubstituted and atypical. We recently demonstrated that GTP, and not ATP, is the preferred cosubstrate of this enzyme. We now show, using competition assays between ATP and GTP, that GTP is the exclusive phosphate donor at intracellular nucleotide levels. In light of these findings, we reevaluated the substrate profile of the phosphotransferase domain of this clinically important enzyme. Steady-state kinetic characterization using the phosphate donor GTP demonstrates that AAC(6')-Ie/APH(2″)-Ia phosphorylates 4,6-disubstituted aminoglycosides with high efficiency (k(cat)/K(m) = 10(5)-10(7) M(-1) s(-1)). Despite this proficiency, no resistance is conferred to some of these antibiotics by the enzyme in vivo. We now show that phosphorylation of 4,5-disubstituted and atypical aminoglycosides are negligible and thus these antibiotics are not substrates. Instead, these aminoglycosides tend to stimulate an intrinsic GTPase activity of the enzyme. Taken together, our data show that the bifunctional enzyme efficiently phosphorylates only 4,6-disubstituted antibiotics; however, phosphorylation does not necessarily result in bacterial resistance. Hence, the APH(2″)-Ia domain of the bifunctional AAC(6')-Ie/APH(2″)-Ia enzyme is a bona fide GTP-dependent kinase with a narrow substrate profile, including only 4,6-disubstituted aminoglycosides.
Role of histamine in meperidine-induced hypotension.

Summary The challenge of intact and histamine-depleted dogs with large doses of meperidine has clearly established the fact that this drug does not have any intrinsic hemodynamic effect. The circulatory changes that are induced by meperidine injection in the intact animals are entirely due to the release of endogenous histamine. Correlation of information from these experiments as well as from the work of others suggests that the mechanism of histamine-induced hypotension has at least two components. One of these is a reduction in effective circulating blood volume and the other a decrense in peripheral vascular resistance.
ANDREADOXA FLAVA (RUTACEAE, CUSPARIINAE) : A NEW GENUS AND SPECIES FROM BAHIA, BRAZIL

Andreadoxa flava is distinguished from all other genera of the neotropical subtribe Cuspariinae by the combination of a cupular calyx, yellow, free petals narrowed at base, two glandular-punctate anthers joined by their based appendages, five apically subglobose and glandular staminodes, a smooth papery testa, and conduplicate, plicate cotyledons. It is one of 10 monospecific genera of the subtribe and one of 17 species of this subtribe endemic to the coastal forests of Bahia.
Mechanical properties of three-dimensional braided composites

Recently developed digital element approach, which treats textile composite manufacturing process as a nonlinear solid mechanics problem, was successfully used to investigate the complicated microstructure of 3D braided rectangular preform. The yarns interaction and cross-sectional deformation, which were neglected in traditional topological model, could be analyzed exactly. Results showed that yarns inside 3D braided preform were curvy, which was opposite to the straight-yarns assumption of topological model and, yarns curvature inside the preform, which was very difficult to be explored before both experimentally and theoretically, was investigated numerically. After that, the mechanical properties of 3D rectangular braided composites, such as tensile stiffness, shear stiffness and Poisson ratio were calculated through the volume-average-compliance method. Comparison was conducted for those from the topological model and digital element approach, and topological model was found to underestimate greatly both the tensile stiffness and shear stiffness.
Osteoporosis and Strength Training

Osteoporosis is a major public health problem. Mechanical strain, imparted by muscle action and ground reaction forces, regulates bone size, shape, mineral mass, and density and subsequently bone s...
434 ESOPHAGITIS AND LOWER ESOPHAGEAL SPHINCTER PRESSURE IN CHILDREN

Patients with gastroesophageal reflux (GER) frequently have a decreased lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure that increases after surgery, although variable results have been noted in children. LES pressures were measured in 80 patients > 3 months of age with symptomatic GER and in 20 control patients. The esophageal probe was a triple lumen catheter perfused at a rate of 1.5 ml per min. Patients were classified as having severe esophagitis if they had stricture, hematemesis or friable esophageal mucosa at esophagoscopy. Normal patients had mean ± SEM pressures of 11.4 ± 0.9 mm Hg while 20 patients with severe esophagitis had LES pressures of 4.3 ± 0.8 mm Hg (p <.001). Symptomatic GER patients without esophagitis (N=60) had LES pressures of 11.6 ± 0.9 mm Hg. In the 10 esophagitis patients with pre and postoperative LES measurements, the average change was +2 mm Hg, and the mean postoperative LES pressure was not different from controls. Patients without esophagitis who ultimately required surgery had LES pressures that were not different from controls, and the average change in LES pressure in the 20 patients with pre and postoperative studies was -0.5 mm Hg. A low LES pressure with a postoperative increase in pressure was noted only when severe esophagitis accompanied the symptomatic GER. The low LES pressures frequently noted in GER patients may be a result of esophageal inflammation rather than the cause of GER.