cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Finite-element modeling of the anthropoid mandible: The effects of altered boundary conditions

Finite-element modeling provides a full-field method for describing the stress environment of the skull. The utility of finite-element models, however, remains uncertain given our ignorance of whether such models validly portray states of stress and strain. For example, the effects of boundary conditions that are chosen to represent the mechanical environment in vivo are largely unknown. We conducted an in vitro strain gauge experiment on a fresh, fully dentate adult mandible of Macaca fascicularis to model a simplified loading regime by finite-element analysis for purposes of model validation. Under various conditions of material and structural complexity, we constructed dentate and edentulous models to measure the effects of changing boundary conditions (force orientation and nodal constraints) on strain values predicted at the gauge location. Our results offer a prospective assessment of the difficulties encountered when attempting to validate finite-element models from in vivo strain data. Small errors in the direction of load application produce significant changes in predicted strains. An isotropic model, although convenient, shows poor agreement with experimental strains, while a heterogeneous orthotropic model predicts strains that are more congruent with these data. Most significantly, we find that an edentulous model performs better than a dentate one in recreating the experimental strains. While this result is undoubtedly tied to our failure to model the periodontal ligament, we interpret the finding to mean that in the absence of occlusal loads, teeth within alveoli do not contribute significantly to the structural stiffness of the mandible.
Isolation and characterization of Tetrahymena pyriformis GL mitochondria.

Abstract 1. 1. Mitochondria were isolated from Tetrahymena pyriformis GL and characterized as to substrate utilization and respiratory control. 2. 2. The mitochondria were further characterized with inhibitors. Amytal and rotenone specifically blocked NADH oxidation, and respiration was also inhibited by KCN, antimycin A and thenoyltrifluroacetone. 3. 3. Oxidative phosphorylation was quite insensitive to oligomycin and KCN, but 2,4-dinitrophenol and pentachlorophenol did inhibit this reaction. NAD + also produced a marked inhibition.
Sterilization method determines effect of toxic foam plug on algal cultures

Abstract Polyurethane foam plugs have long been known to be potentially toxic to algae and should be tested before use. We show that new, un-autoclaved diSPo R plugs are toxic to algae and that their toxicity varies with the pre-culture sterilization method used. This can make detection of toxicity difficult. Autoclaving a toxic polyurethane foam plug in an empty flask produced the greatest toxicity to Dunaliella sp. and resulted in the death of all cultures tested. We suggest using this treatment method when testing plugs for toxicity to algal cultures. Autoclaving a toxic plug in a fluid-filled flask was found to significantly decrease its toxicity to Dunaliella sp. After 9 days, algal cultures stoppered with toxic plugs which were initially autoclaved in a fluid-filled flask had similar observed color intensities but reduced cell densities compared to control cultures. Culturists using this sterilization procedure with toxic foam plugs may be unaware of potential problems due to the normal-appearing color intensity of the cultures. We recommend that the results of any studies using diSPo R and other potentially toxic plugs be re-examined for the possible effects of toxicity. This includes studies where foam plugs have been autoclaved in flasks containing culture water or media and the resultant cultures appeared normal.
A statistical-mechanical model for regulation of long-range chromatin structure and gene expression.

Abstract In eukaryotic organisms, organization of chromatin is considered to play a role in transcriptional regulation by limiting the accessibility of a gene to the transcription machinery. It is not fully understood, however, how chromatin around a particular locus can be specifically altered to allow transcription. This paper introduces a statistical–mechanical model of chromatin to illustrate a potential mechanism. The model, which is mathematically equivalent to the one-dimensional Ising model of magnetic systems, explains how gene regulatory DNA sequences can affect the chromatin structure over a long distance in cis. The main assumption of the model is cooperativity of histone H1 in binding to the nucleosome array. This cooperativity results in a long-range correlation of histone H1 distribution along the chromatin. Due to this long-range correlation, a gene regulatory element, such as a transcriptional enhancer, may lead to depletion of histone H1 over a large region of chromatin thereby increasing the accessibility of the gene. The model provides a mechanism for a sensitive genetic switch and explains several aspects of gene regulation and chromatin structure.
The Medical Home for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Parent and Pediatrician Perspectives

This qualitative study examines differences between perceptions of parents and pediatricians regarding the needs of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and their families within the medical home. Two separate focus groups of parents of children with ASDs and pediatricians were conducted. Parents and pediatricians identify unmet needs within medical homes of children with ASDs. Parents perceived that physicians did not act early upon their concerns about development, and that care is less comprehensive, coordinated and family-centered than desired. Pediatricians desire to improve services but cite lack of time, training and resources as barriers. Medical homes for children with ASDs would benefit from better pediatrician ASD education and medical systems that support extended visits, care coordination and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Maximizing single connection TCP goodput by trading bandwidth for BER

SUMMARY All other conditions being equal, the end-to-end throughput of a TCP connection depends on the packet loss rate at the IP level. This is an issue when IP runs on a wireless link, where the bit error rate is variable and typically much higher than it i s on fixed links. Especially on ph ysical l inks where the bandwidth d elay product is high, TCP performance is s ignificantly impaired by apparently low values of the bit error rate. Generally speaking, on a wireless link b andwidth can be traded for information quality (error r ate), the simplest method being to change the type or parameters of forward error correction. On this basis, we show a general method of taking advantage of this trade-off in order to maximize the throughput of a TCP connection.
Production of gold cluster ions by laser desorption/ionization Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry

Abstract We report a simple method for generating large gold cluster ions, Au +/- , by laser desorption Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance (LD FT-ICR) mass spectrometry. The gold clusters are generated from peptide-covered thin gold films coated on glass plates to ≈ 10 nm thickness to provide for high optical absorbance at the Nd:YAG laser fundamental wavelength, 1064 nm. Abundant negatively charged gold clusters up to Au - 46 are produced when gramicidin S peptide is overcoated on the gold film. These gold cluster ions are the largest reported to date by laser desorption without use of a supersonic jet expansion source.
Ischemia Reperfusion Induced Arrhythmia are Prevented by Mitochondrial IK,ATP Opening by Mesenchymal Stem Cell (MSC) Paracrine Factors

MSC transplantation after I/R injury reduces infarct size and improves cardiac function. There is evidence that this cardioprotective effect is mediated by paracrine signalling, but the mechanism remains yet to be determined. Isolated mouse ventricular myocytes (VMs) were used in an in vitro model of I/R to determine the effect of MSC conditioned tyrode (ConT) on the recovery of VMs from an ischemic challenge (15 min). Measurements of the mitochondrial membrane potential (Ψmito) with TMRM (100 nM), the intracellular Ca concentration (fluo-4/AM) and cell shortening were used as functional readouts. During ischemia VMs exhibit a depolarization of Ψmito and an increase in diastolic calcium concomitant to a decrease in cell contractility. Reperfusion with either Ctrl or ConT resulted in an increase in Ca transient amplitudes. Early After Depolarizations (EADs) frequently observed in Ctrl cells were reduced during ConT reperfusion (EADs: ConT:1% vs. Ctrl: 24%; at 1 min). ConT prolonged VM survival (ConT: 58% vs Ctrl: 33%; at 20 min) and Ca transients returned to pre-ischemic values. After I/R, Ψmito rapidly recovered in Ctrl as well as ConT; however, in Ctrl an exaggerated hyperpolarization of Ψmito (Ctrl: 6 of 9; ConT: 0 of 5 cells) was observed. This hyperpolarization could be prevented by supplementing Ctrl solution after I/R with the ROS scavenger mitoTEMPO (5 μM) or the IK,ATP opener (diazoxide, 200 μM). Enhanced hyperpolarization was induced by supplementing ConT with a blocker of IK,ATP 5-HD (500 μM) or PI3K/Akt inhibitors (LY: 10 μM; Akt iV: 20 μM). In conclusion we could demonstrate that MSC ConT protects VMs from I/R injury by attenuation of arrhythmic Ca release events and by delaying the recovery of Ψmito through PI3K/Akt mediated opening of IK,ATP.
The effect of lecithin on the activity of pancreatic lipase.

Abstract Lecithin preparations were shown to inhibit the hydrolysis of triglycerides by purified pancreatic lipase; the extent of the inhibition depended on the levels of triglycerides and on the lipase concentration.
Prognostic Factors and Outcomes of Patients with Myxofibrosarcoma

Background Myxofibrosarcomas (MFS) are a historically heterogeneous group of tumors that exhibit a propensity for local recurrence. The objectives of this study were to analyze the prognostic factors and outcomes of patients with MFS treated at a single institution.
The energy absorption potential of chain composites

Abstract Various chain composites designed to exhibit delocalized damage and high-energy absorption have been fabricated and tested. The energy absorbed per unit volume ranges up to 55 MJ/m 3 and the specific energy absorption up to 14 J/g, figures comparable to or exceeding the best current candidate materials for energy absorption. Observations of damage mechanisms are reported and related to a previously derived model appropriate to chain composites with matrices that are relatively weak in tension. Estimates of the energy absorption levels that could be achieved in the optimal case are then made based on modeling arguments. These are found to exceed 160 MJ/m 3 or 40 J/g.
Practical Parameters in the Use of Flooding for Treating Chronic PTSD

While flooding or direct therapeutic exposure (DTE) has been empirically validated as an effective primary treatment for PTSD through several randomized controlled trials, there is also evidence that relatively few trauma therapists actually use the technique. There are now several published reports which document a number of the difficulties in implementing the treatment with chronic PTSD patients. These problems, ranging from patient refusal to adverse reactions, represent several domains, including trauma history characteristics, patients' personal characteristics, therapist factors, and treatment environment factors. The purpose of the present report is to provide an empirical rationale to support the use of individual flooding as a primary form of psychotherapy for chronic combat-related PTSD. Implementation rates for flooding are compared among expert behavioural trauma therapists versus field use rates for trauma programmes generally. Complications or side-effects of flooding are considered. We also identify several predictable sources of difficulty in implementing individual flooding and the proportions of patients likely to be affected by each type. Finally, practical suggestions are offered for improving utilization of flooding, and directions for future empirical investigations are explored.
Well-imaged large vessel vasculitis attributed to anticardiolipin antibody.

Objective. We report a case of large vessel vasculitis, compare imaging techniques, and briefly review the literature. Methods. Anticardiolipin antibody titers, acute-phase response, and ischemic symptoms in a 50-year-old man admitted for treatment of vasculitis-related ischemia of the fingers were monitored over a 14-month period. Images from serial magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) were compared with images from conventional arteriography in the evaluation of peripheral arterial circulation. Results. The acute-phase response and anticardiolipin antibody levels were found to vary in parallel with slow resolution of ischemic symptoms following monthly treatment with pulse methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide. Conclusion. Attribution of ischemic symptoms to anticardiolipin antibody is supported by the correlation of anticardiolipin antibody titers, acute-phase response parameters, and ischemic symptoms. The serial images from MRA demonstrate its usefulness as a noninvasive tool for followup studies of both large and medium-sized vessels affected by vasculitis.
Tactical Intelligence Exploitation And Fusion System For Contingency Operations

The requirement for near real time intelligence in today's tactical environment is driven by the adversaries' multiple lines communications (LOC) and the highly dynamic forces operating within a small geographic area. Military forces within the Warsaw Pact, and even Third World countries, have highly mobile, rapidly deployable weapon systems. With their established LOCs they can bring these weapons to bear against friendly forces within minutes. Keeping track of these forces and their movements is a most formidable task for our tactical forces. However, we do have the resources to accomplish the mission. The tendency has been to concentrate on the European scenario, but this does leave a void in the arsenal for fighting brush fires or limited conflicts. What is lacking is a modularized, mobile, self sustaining, ground processing and intelligence fusion center that can be deployed at a moment's notice to a forward bare base and be operational within three hours after arriving. The purpose herein is to define a modularized, tactical ground processing and fusion center that can be tailored to satisfy the requirements of each of the Services for a lightweight, highly mobile system. A system definition describing the physical characteristics of the system is presented, along with a concept of operation. Also presented is a brief discussion of the system architecture and the interaction among the ground mission supervisors (GMS). Finally, several methods of system implementation and the communications for tasking and product dissemination are discussed.
CHILBINIA GEN. NOV., AN ARCHAIC SEED FERN IN THE LATE TRIASSIC CHINLE FORMATION OF ARIZONA, USA

: A seed-bearing pinnate leaf found in the Chinle Formation of Late Triassic age in Arizona appears to be an archaic seed fern that more closely resembles typical Carboniferous–Permian seed fern leaves than any younger form. The fossil, which is described here as Chilbinia lichii gen. et sp. nov., incorporates characters of several Palaeozoic taxa. These characters include pinnules that have reticulate venation resembling that in some species of Lonchopteris, cordate bases similar to those found in many species of Sphenopteris, and, except for a significant difference in size, linear ovate seeds that resemble the radially symmetrical seeds found attached to a species of Alethopteris in the Permian of China. The presence of this fossil in strata of Late Triassic age is further evidence that plant extinctions after the Permian–Triassic ecological crisis followed a stepwise pattern and apparently continued for at least 20–25 myr after the end of the Permian in western parts of the Triassic paratropical belt.
Nonanalytic Behavior Above the Critical Point in a Random Ising Ferromagnet

It is shown that in a class of randomly diluted Ising ferromagnets the magnetization fails to be an analytic function of the field $H$ at $H=0$ for a range of temperatures above that at which spontaneous magnetization first appears.
Social Styles and the Second Language Acquisition of Spanish‐Speaking Kindergartners

Previous studies that have examined the relationship between personality factors and second language acquisition have yielded contradictory findings. However, when these studies are divided according to whether they examined natural communicative language as compared with formal tested language, it becomes clear that certain personal characteristics are consistently related to successful language learning. The present study examines seven such characteristics in connection with success at acquiring certain communicative language skills among thirteen Spanish-speaking kindergartners who began the school year with almost no English. The question of motivation to be a part of the target language group and preference for English speakers as playmates and friends is also discussed on the basis of sociometric evidence. Contrary to previous conclusions (e.g., WongFillmore 1976), the faster learners did not seek to befriend or identify more with English speakers than did the slower learners. Faster learners, however, were more talkative, responsive, and gregarious than slower learners. Implications of these findings for teachers and researchers are discussed. This study attempts to discover some of the reasons why young children from similar backgrounds will acquire a second language at markedly different rates and with varying degrees of success. Studies by Wong-Fillmore (1976), and Cathcart, Strong, and Fillmore (1979) have already shown that, within a given time period, in any group some children will become able to communicate comfortably, some will learn enough to get by, and some will acquire hardly any skills in the second language. Recently, much second language research (reviewed in Long 1982) has suggested that language learners who can maintain communicative interactions with native speakers experience the optimal conditions for improving their skills in the new language. The focus of most of this
Maternity and family leave policies: a comparative analysis

Abstract This article compares maternity leave data from a 1981 Columbia study, a 1992 two county survey and a 1997 revisit to the same sample of Idaho employers. The data reflect a trend between 1981 and 1997 of shifting costs for specific benefits (pension, life and health insurance) from employer to employee. The findings also indicate that, regardless of the number of employees, all responding employers have health insurance that covers maternity and allow pregnant employees to work until delivery if able to do so. Additionally, the effects of the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 are considered by comparing policies reported in 1992 and those reported in 1997 by Idaho employers with 50 or more employees. The conclusions point to substantial changes in some leave benefits since the FMLA took effect but echo again the dilemma faced in the United States, that we are still out of step with most industrial societies in that we have an unpaid leave policy.
Crucibles of leadership (how to learn from experience to become a great leader)

Crucibles of leadership (how to learn from experience to become a great leader), by Robert J. Thomas, Boston, Massachusetts, Harvard Business School Publishing Corporation, 2008, 264 pp., US$20.45 ...
Complexes of dibromo(ethylenediamine)-palladium(II) observed from aqueous solutions by electrospray mass spectrometry.

The dimeric complex of dibromo(ethylenediamine)palladium(II) observed in water was investigated using electrospray mass spectrometry. One µM aqueous solutions of Pd(en)Br2 yielded a variety of previously unreported species. The most abundant ion observed was attributable to the Pd(en)Br2 · Pd(en)Br+ dimeric complex at m/z 568.7 (most abundant stable isotopes). The characteristics of the oligomeric complexes were examined using collision-induced dissociation (CID) up to MS6. The most common loss mechanism observed was loss of HBr leaving an unsaturated Pd(II) center. Fragmentation of the ethylenediamine ligand was also observed during CID experiments. Loss of Pd was only observed as the final step in the CID process when other loss mechanisms had been exhausted. A number of calculations were carried out at the B3-LYP/SBKJC[d] level of theory in an attempt to elucidate the structure of the [2M − Br]+ dimer.
Strange attractors for asymptotically zero maps

Abstract A discrete dynamical system in Euclidean m-space generated by the iterates of an asymptotically zero map f, satisfying f ( x ) → 0 as x → ∞ , must have a compact global attracting set A. The question of what additional hypotheses are sufficient to guarantee that A has a minimal (invariant) subset A that is a chaotic strange attractor is answered in detail for a few types of asymptotically zero maps. These special cases happen to have many applications (especially as mathematical models for a variety of processes in ecological and population dynamics), some of which are presented as examples and analyzed in considerable detail.
THEORY OF HIGH-SPIN FIELDS.

A general method for the construction of wave functions and wave equations for higher spins is proposed. This method is based on the full use of projection operators, without any use of boosting and without explicit use of auxiliary fields. The wave equations are always expressed in the form of single matrix equations, so that their Lagrangians follow immediately. Then the entire program of quantization of the free fields can follow straightforwardly by using the so-called $d(\ensuremath{\partial})$-operator technique which was developed previously. The present method is made up of two steps: The first step is to derive wave equations when the maximum spin is specified; the second step is to derive equations when the spin itself is specified. The techniqu employed in the first step, when it is applied to many-spinor representations, can be used to put the Bargmann-Wigner equations into the form of a single matrix equation. The same technique enables us to write explicitly the Harish-Chandra $\ensuremath{\beta}$ matrices in terms of Dirac matrices. General arguments explain why the relativistic wave equations in general contain a certain number of arbitrary parameters, such as have been observed by several authors. The method is illustrated by several examples of relativistic wave equations.
The incidence of concurrent osteitis in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis: a clinicopathological study

BackgroundThe pathogenesis of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) has been found to be multifactorial, with environmental, general host, and local anatomic factors all contributing to its development. Recent studies have indicated that local osteitis of the underlying bone also may play a critical role in the elaboration of CRS by inducing persistent inflammatory changes in the surrounding mucosa. The purpose of this study was to determine the clinical incidence rate of osteitis in patients with CRS undergoing functional endoscopic sinus surgery.MethodsFrom January to July 2003, a prospective study was performed on 121 patients undergoing functional endoscopic sinus surgery for CRS. Age, number of previous surgeries, radiographic bony characteristics, and pathological findings were all documented. The presence of concurrent osteitis was assessed using both radiographic (neoosteogenesis) and pathological (bony remodeling) criteria.ResultsThe mean age of the patients was 44.3 years. Fifty-eight percent of the case...
Translational control of the expression of bacteriophage T7 gene 0.3.

Abstract When Escherichia coli are infected at 43 °C with a bacteriophage T7 mutant that produces a temperature-sensitive RNA polymerase (ts342), the rate of transcription of the T7 late genes is reduced three- to fourfold below the rate of transcription in cells infected with wild-type T7. The reduction in T7 late mRNA concentration in cells infected with ts342 is accompanied by the over-production at late times of at least one T7 early protein, the gene 0.3 protein. Despite the difference in T7 late mRNA concentration in cells infected with wild-type T7 and ts342 at 43 °C, T7 late proteins are synthesized at the same rate in the two infected-cell cultures. These findings support an hypothesis of discrimination against 0.3 mRNA translation in favor of translating T7 late messages when mRNA is in excess of the protein synthetic machinery of the cell.
Seasonal and Interannual Variation In the Energetic Condition of Adult Male Atlantic Sharpnose Shark Rhizoprionodon terraenovae In the Northern Gulf of Mexico

One hundred and thirty Atlantic sharpnose shark Rhizoprionodon terraenovae livers were collected from April 1999 to October 2001 from inshore waters of the Mississippi Sound to investigate seasonal and inter-annual variation in their energetic condition. A decline in the hepato-somatic index (I H ) was observed from 1999 to 2001. In addition, I H , liver specific energy content and total energy content were lowest during the summer and highest during the spring and autumn, while liver water content was highest during the summer and lowest during the spring and autumn.
Characterization of interactions between chitosan and an anionic surfactant.

Chitosan is a cationic biopolymer that has many potential applications in the food industry because of its unique nutritional and physiochemical properties. Many of these properties depend on its ability to interact with anionic surface-active molecules, such as phospholipids, surfactants, and bile acids. The purpose of this study was to characterize the interaction between chitosan and a model anionic surfactant (sodium dodecyl sulfate, SDS) using isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), surfactant-selective electrode (SSE), and turbidity measurements. ITC and SSE indicated that SDS bound strongly to chitosan via a highly exothermic interaction. The turbidity measurements indicated that chitosan formed insoluble complexes with SDS that strongly scattered light. The chitosan bound approximately 4 mM of SDS per 0.1 wt % chitosan before becoming saturated with surfactant. The SDS−chitosan interaction was weakened appreciably by the presence of 100 mM NaCl, which suggested that it was electrostatic in origin....
A constrained maximum-likelihood approach to estimating switching regressions☆

Abstract It is widely known that the likelihood function for the switching-regression model is unbounded if the error variances are unconstrained. This paper shows that a constrained maximum-likelihood formulation makes the likelihood function bounded. Relatively mild constraints are imposed on the parameters, and if the true parameters satisfy the constraints, there is a global maximizer of the likelihood function on the constrained parameter space which is consistent, asymptotically normal, and efficient. A well-known EM algorithm is modified in order to compute constrained maximizers of the likelihood function.
MICROSTRUCTURE CHARACTERIZATION OF AMORPHOUS THIN SOLID FILMS IN A FRINGE-FREE ENVIRONMENT

We have comprehensively analyzed the influence of the probe beam’s polarization state and incident angle on the vibrational absorption spectra of thin solid films such as hydrogenated amorphous silicon nitride and hydrogenated amorphous silicon in Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. This analysis demonstrates the nuisance of interference fringes in distorting the bond structure of thin solid films in conventional vibrational absorption spectra. Based on the spectrum analysis and optical fundamentals, a practical method of recording a vibrational absorption spectrum of a thin solid film in an interference fringe-free environment is proposed. Furthermore, it is also demonstrated that a fringe-free spectrum can be recorded even in an interference-embedded environment if a right light incident angle is chosen. This interference-embedded fringe-free spectrum is only valid for material’s qualitative microstructure assessment but not for direct quantitative analysis. Finally, a comparison between ideal spec...
Metabolic fate of biotin and of avidin-biotin complex upon parenteral administration.

Abstract 1. 1. The parenteral administration of 0.01–0.02 mg biotin to fed or fasted rats caused a marked increase in biotin excretion for one day, accounting for up to 40% of the dose. 2. 2. The use of labelled biotin in a similar experiment indicated that most of the residual biotin was also excreted within one day although not in microbiologically active form. 3. 3. Of similar amounts of radiobiotin administered in complex form with avidin, about one half was excreted over a 3–5 day period, apparently largely as free biotin. 4. 4. In each experiment, a small fraction of the administered radiobiotin was found in the liver, but no appreciable amount in the other organs tested.
Coupled Operation Experience at the Holifield Heavy Ion Research Facility

The 25URC Pelletron tandem electrostatic accelerator and the Oak Ridge Isochronous Cyclotron (ORIC) comprise the accelerators of the Holifield Heavy-Ion Research Facility (HHIRF). The two machines may be operated individually or coupled, with ORIC serving as an energy booster for the tandem. In the coupled dode, the ion beam enters the cyclotron through the dee stem and is directed by the inflection magnet so that it is tangent to an orbit suitable for acceleration at a higher charge state. A thin carbon foil, placed at the point of tangency, strips the ions so that a substantial fraction are in the desired higher charge state. This fraction of the beam is then accelerated and extracted in the normal fashion. Full energy performance (25 MeV/A oxygen) was demonstrated during first coupled operation in January 1981. Routine coupled operation for experiments commenced in July 1982.
Structure-based drug design of nonpeptidic P2 substituents for HIV-1 protease inhibitors

Abstract The cocrystal structures of LY289612 and LY297135 were used as a starting point in the design of nonpeptidic HIV-1 protease inhibitors. This report details the discovery of a series of novel aromatic P 2 replacement groups. The 3-hydroxy-2-methyl benzoic acid group, discovered in AG1254, was incorporated into the hydroxyethyl amine series to produce the potent antiviral compound (LY309391/ AG1310).
Localized Corrosion Behavior of Alloy 2090—The Role of Microstructural Heterogeneity

Abstract The pitting and intergranular corrosion behavior of alloy AA 2090 (Al-2Li-3Cu, UNS A92090) in a 3.5 wt% NaCl solution was investigated. Techniques used included potentiodynamic polarization, galvanic couples, and pH measurements in simulated crevices. Polarization scans were performed on under-aged and peak-aged material to obtain the standard polarization parameters. Corroded specimens were examined with optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDAX) to distinguish various local corrosion morphologies. Ingots were cast to approximate the subgrain boundary, T1 (Al2CuLi) phase, and Al-Cu-Fe constituent phases inherent in the alloy. These were then galvanically coupled to solution heat treated (SHT) 2090 to identify their role in local corrosion processes. Simulated crevices were produced by inserting pH micro-electrodes into crevices machined in 2090 blocks to measure pH versus time response in occluded environments. Based on the experiments...
Antimicrobial drug resistance of fecal Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. isolates from United States dairy cows

Antimicrobial resistance is a growing concern for public and animal health. Threats to public health could come from the transfer of pathogens from animals to people via indirect contact such as through food or by direct contact with animals. In addition, concern has been raised for the potential transfer of resistance determinants from animals to humans through commensal bacterial flora such as Escherichia coli. Isolates of E. coli and Salmonella spp. from dairy cows on farms in 21 states were evaluated for resistance to a panel of 16 antimicrobial drugs. Resistance patterns for E. coli were compared to those of Salmonella spp. when they were isolated concurrently on the same farm or from the same fecal sample. Overall, most of the E. coli isolates (85.3%) and Salmonella spp. isolates (87.2%) were susceptible to all antimicrobials in the panel. The resistance profiles for E. coli with and without concurrent isolation of Salmonella were comparable with the exception of tetracycline resistance, which was m...
Factorization of Bosonic String Amplitudes

Abstract We consider the bosonic string path integral over degenerating Riemann surfaces. We first review the factorization of conformal field theory on a degenerating surface. A careful treatment of the degeneration of the measure for moduli leads to a modification of the usual ghost insertions so as to assure covariance under a change of conformal frame. More generally, amplitudes with BRST invariant but conformally non-invariant operators are well defined with the covariant ghost insertions. As a detailed application we study the string modifications to the background field equations. We find to first order in the tadpole and all orders in string coupling that the ratio of the graviton source, dilaton source, and zero-point amplitude agrees with that found from general covariance and the soft-dilaton theorem in the low-energy field theory. We also discuss the unitarity of the bosonic string theory,
Early Life Trauma Among Women Shoplifters and Sex Workers

Drawing from the life history of 38 drug-addicted women, this article adds to extant literature on early life trauma in female offenders by distinguishing between women on the crimes they chose to pursue. It revealed how chronic physical and sexual abuses and the invisible suffering of emotional abuse, neglect, and abandonment occurring within the childhood home resonated as the trigger for drug addiction and subsequent criminal involvement among the women. Disaggregating the female offenders by crime specialization revealed that early life trauma is most characteristic of sex workers. Women who specialized in shoplifting experienced much less early life trauma than those who specialized in sex work.
Novel approaches to determine contractile function of the isolated adult zebrafish ventricular cardiac myocyte.

Key points The zebrafish is emerging as an attractive cost-effective model for the study of structure–function relationships. However, cardiac contractile function in the zebrafish remains to be investigated. We applied novel approaches used to study contractile function at the cellular level in mammalian models to zebrafish. We found that contractile force regulation in the adult zebrafish shares many similarities with that in the mammalian myocardium as previously determined by others and ourselves, indicating that the zebrafish is an appropriate model system for the study of cardiac contractile biology. Abstract The zebrafish (Danio rerio) has been used extensively in cardiovascular biology, but mainly in the study of heart development. The relative ease of its genetic manipulation may indicate the suitability of this species as a cost-effective model system for the study of cardiac contractile biology. However, whether the zebrafish heart is an appropriate model system for investigations pertaining to mammalian cardiac contractile structure–function relationships remains to be resolved. Myocytes were isolated from adult zebrafish hearts by enzymatic digestion, attached to carbon rods, and twitch force and intracellular Ca2+ were measured. We observed the modulation of twitch force, but not of intracellular Ca2+, by both extracellular [Ca2+] and sarcomere length. In permeabilized cells/myofibrils, we found robust myofilament length-dependent activation. Moreover, modulation of myofilament activation–relaxation and force redevelopment kinetics by varied Ca2+ activation levels resembled that found previously in mammalian myofilaments. We conclude that the zebrafish is a valid model system for the study of cardiac contractile structure–function relationships.
Second order approximation of natural frequency constraints in structural synthesis

The paper is concerned with structural optimization problems in which the constraints consist of limits imposed on the natural frequencies of the structure. Improvements in the quality of approximations for the frequency constraints are sought by considering second-order Taylor series expansions. Analysis of the second-order sensitivity of natural frequencies is carried out. As an example, the design of a midplane symmetric aluminum beam of constant depth supporting three nonstructural masses is considered. Web thickness and chord member areas were determined so as to achieve minimum structural mass while maintaining the fundamental frequency at or above 30 Hz.
Altered radiation therapy fractionation, chemoradiation, and patient selection for the treatment of head and neck squamous carcinoma

The resistance of some head and neck squamous cancers (HNSCC) to standard radiation therapy led to the investigation of altered fractionation regimens and the integration of chemotherapy aimed at improved therapeutic outcomes. Intensive clinical investigations during the last 3 decades have shown the benefits of biologically sound altered fractionation and concurrent chemoradiation regimens in improving local-regional control and less consistently the overall survival. These results have contributed to redefining the standard of care. The results of large randomized trials are reviewed and summarized in this article, along with recommendations for treatment selection. In view of all available data, it is proposed that the current standard nonsurgical therapy is the conventional once-daily radiotherapy alone for T1 and favorable T2, N0-1 tumors; altered fractionation alone for unfavorable T2 or exophytic T3, N0-1 disease; radiation with planned neck dissection for T1-2N2-3 tumors; and concurrent chemoradiation for more advanced HNSCCs. These newer options offer the unprecedented opportunity to select the proper therapy based on patient and tumor features and the expertise of the oncology team with the goal of optimizing cancer control and functional outcomes. Meanwhile, research efforts are ongoing to refine chemoradiation regimens and schedules, to address toxicity amelioration, and to identify predictive biomarkers and effective molecularly targeted therapy. These initiatives will likely lead to improvement in the therapeutic index for patients with HNSCC.
Protein sequestration generates a flexible ultrasensitive response in a genetic network

Ultrasensitive responses are crucial for cellular regulation. Protein sequestration, where an active protein is bound in an inactive complex by an inhibitor, can potentially generate ultrasensitivity. Here, in a synthetic genetic circuit in budding yeast, we show that sequestration of a basic leucine zipper transcription factor by a dominant-negative inhibitor converts a graded transcriptional response into a sharply ultrasensitive response, with apparent Hill coefficients up to 12. A simple quantitative model for this genetic network shows that both the threshold and the degree of ultrasensitivity depend upon the abundance of the inhibitor, exactly as we observed experimentally. The abundance of the inhibitor can be altered by simple mutation; thus, ultrasensitive responses mediated by protein sequestration are easily tuneable. Gene duplication of regulatory homodimers and loss-of-function mutations can create dominant negatives that sequester and inactivate the original regulator. The generation of flexible ultrasensitive responses is an unappreciated adaptive advantage that could explain the frequent evolutionary emergence of dominant negatives.
Occurrence and Distribution of Boron-Conitaining Phases in Sintered ş-Silicon Carbide

A variety of optical and analytical instruments have been employed to observe and characterize the mlcrostructure and composition of the B-containing phases which occur in sintered α-SiC as a result of either their use as a nensification aid or that which evolves as a result of annealing well below the sintering temperatures. The former have been identified as B4C containing a small amount of Si. The latirr occur as ∼20-nm precipitates which have also been tentatively identified as B4C and are believed to contain trace quantities of Si. No B phase was observed on the SiC grain boundaries; furthermore, the precipitate formation was not enhanced by the application of stress.
Bortezomib enhances expression of effector molecules in anti-tumor CD8 + T lymphocytes by promoting Notch-nuclear factor-κB crosstalk

The immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment usurps host antitumor immunity by multiple mechanisms including interference with the Notch system, which is important for various metazoan cell fate decisions and hematopoietic cell differentiation and function. We observed that treatment with the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib in mice bearing various solid tumors resulted in an upregulated expression of various Notch signaling components in lymphoid tissues, thereby increasing CD8+T-lymphocyte IFNγ secretion and expression of effector molecules, perforin and granzyme B, as well as the T-box transcription factor eomesodermin. Bortezomib also neutralized TGFβ-mediated suppression of IFNγ and granzyme B expression in activated CD8+T-cells. Of note, bortezomib reversed tumor-induced downregulation of Notch receptors, Notch1 and Notch2, as well as increased the levels of cleaved Notch intracellular domain (NICD) and downstream targets Hes1 and Hey1 in tumor-draining CD8+T-cells. Moreover, bortezomib promoted CD8+T-cell nuclear factor-κB (NFκB) activity by increasing the total and phosphorylated levels of the IκB kinase and IκBα as well as the cytoplasmic and nuclear levels of phosphorylated p65. Even when we blocked NFκB activity by Bay-11-7082, or NICD cleavage by γ-secretase inhibitor, bortezomib significantly increased expression of Notch Hes1 and Hey1 genes as well as perforin, granzyme B and eomesodermin in activated CD8+T-cells. Data suggest that bortezomib can rescue tumor-induced dysfunction of CD8+T-cells by its intrinsic stimulatory effects promoting NICD-NFκB crosstalk. These findings provide novel insights on using bortezomib not only as an agent to sensitize tumors to cell death but also to provide lymphocyte-stimulatory effects, thereby overcoming immunosuppressive actions of tumor on anti-tumor T-cell functions.
Resolving more sources with multi-frequency coarrays in high-resolution direction-of-arrival estimation

This paper presents a multi-frequency method to increase the number of incoherent sources that can be resolved using MUltiple SIgnal Classification (MUSIC). The method uses coarray equivalence to construct a “virtual correlation matrix” with a higher dimension than the number of receiving elements. This allows for more sources to be resolved than with traditional MUSIC, where the number of sources must be less than the number of receiving elements. This method will prove to be useful in situations where the number of antenna elements must be limited, but there are many sources. The method as presented here has restrictions on the types of sources that can be resolved.
Suppression of receptors for prolactin and estrogen in rat liver due to treatment with the growth hormone analogue produced by the tapeworm Spirometra mansonoides.

AbstractSomatogenic hormones play an important role in regulation of receptors for prolactin (PRL) and estrogen. Plerocercoids of the tapeworm, S. mansonoides produce a factor which mimics some, but not all of the actions reported for GH. Intact female rats were subjected to a constant infusion of plerocercoid growth factor (PGF) via a subcutaneous infection for two weeks to determine if PGF influences receptors for PRL, GH or estradiol. The rate of weight gain in the PGF-treated rats was accelerated in spite of a marked reduction in serum GH. Partially-purified PGF specifically displaced [125I]hGH from rat liver receptors but microsomes prepared from rats treated with PGF specifically bound significantly less [125I]hGH than microsomes from control rats. The reduction in [125I]hGH binding was not due to occupancy or to a change in affinity but to a suppression in receptor concentration. Scatchard analysis of [3H]estradiol binding in rat liver cytosols shows a 50% reduction in receptor concentration in the...
Selected aspects of penicillin allergy.

SUMMARY.— Skin tests for immediate hypersensitivity with penicillin derivatives and haemagglutination tests for penicilloyl-specific IgG and IgM antibodies are useful in the prevention, diagnosis and management of clinical adverse reactions mediated by IgE antibodies. In rare instances, the skin tests themselves may cause clinical adverse reactions. Under suitable conditions, hyposensitization or temporary loss of skin sensitivity can be successfully brought about, even in individuals with a high degree of immediate hypersensitivity. Delayed hypersensitivity plays a role in mediating certain non-urticarial forms of penicillin allergy, including some cases of exanthematous eruptions. The degree of delayed hypersensitivity consistently fluctuates to lower levels after administration of therapeutic doses of penicillin. Preliminary data are presented which suggest that infants who are given penicillin at birth form IgM penicilloyl-specific serum antibodies much less frequently and in lower titres than occur after penicillin therapy later in life.
The President said

Abstract This paper is a review of and a commentary on the published addresses of WSSA presidents from the founding of the Society through 2000. The paper's assumptions are that the presidential remarks will reveal what the Society has emphasized, what its major concerns and goals have been, and how the presidents have addressed what they considered to be important issues. Seven issues have been addressed by many presidents. These include the importance of agricultural production and profit, the necessity of herbicides, weed science and the environment, the regulation of herbicides, the need for education, comparison of weed science and other plant protection disciplines, and the problem of herbicide resistance. Nomenclature: Presidents; Society; WSSA.
Postpartum Management of Women Begun on Levothyroxine during Pregnancy.

During pregnancy, the thyroid gland must produce 50% more thyroid hormone to maintain the euthyroid state. Women with decreased thyroid reserve pre-conception, most typically due to Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, may develop hypothyroidism during pregnancy. Data over the last twenty years have reported a strong association between subclinical hypothyroidism and adverse maternal/fetal events. As a result of this association, an increasing number of women are being screened for thyroid disease either pre-conception or at the first prenatal visit. Consequently, an ever increasing number of women are being initiated on levothyroxine for the first time during pregnancy. At present, there are very limited guidelines related to the management of the thyroid disease in these women postpartum. Based on an understanding of the physiology of thyroid gland during pregnancy and postpartum, and the personal clinical experience of the author, recommendations for the postpartum management of women who were started on levothyroxine during pregnancy are presented.