cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Kinetics of the clearing of 14C-labeled deoxyribonucleosides from rat blood in vivo and in vitro

Abstract 1. 1. Doses of deoxythymidine, deoxyguanosine or deoxyadenosine, ranging from 7.8 to 11.3 μmoles per 100 g of body weight and administered as a single intra-arterial injection to rats, are cleared from the blood within 5 min to the extent of 91.0, 98.1 and > 99%, respectively, of the injected total. Thus, large doses of these deoxynucleosides are handled by the rat in the same way as tracer doses of deoxythymidine, with no noticeable lag in clearance. 2. 2. Upon incubation with whole blood in vitro at 39°C, at initial concentrations between 200 and 300 μg/ml, deoxyadenosine and deoxyguanosine undergo a moderate rate of breakdown amounting to no more than 40% of the beginning total after 12 min, whereas deoxythymidine is not degraded significantly even after 24 min of incubation. Processes that lie outside the metabolic activities of the blood appear to be mainly responsible for the clearing of these deoxynucleosides from blood in vivo . 3. 3. An unusual chromatographic technique is described that makes possible the direct analysis of blood samples for certain organic, nonprotein constituents without the necessity of prior deproteinization.
Mutual information-based approach to adaptive homodyne detection of quantum optical states

The author proposes an approach to adaptive homodyne detection of digitally modulated quantum optical pulses in which the phase of the local oscillator is chosen to maximize the average information gain, i.e., the mutual information, at each step of the measurement. The properties of this adaptive detection scheme are studied by considering the problem of classical information content of ensembles of coherent states. Simulations of quantum trajectories and visualizations of corresponding measurement operators demonstrate that the proposed measurement scheme adapts itself to the features of each ensemble. For all considered ensembles of coherent states, it consistently outperforms heterodyne detection and Wiseman's adaptive scheme for phase measurements [H.M. Wiseman, Phys. Rev. Lett. 75, 4587 (1995)].
For the Pet Care Appliance of Location Aware Infrastructure on Cyber Physical System

“Technology stems from humanity.” This sentence is a good description of modern life. The interaction between humans and physical devices and objects in the real world is gaining more attention and requires a natural and intuitive methodology to employ. Cyber physical systems refer to a new generation of systems that integrate computational and physical capabilities and are capable of interacting with humans through many new modalities. Thus, this study examines the ability of computation, communication, and control technologies to improve human interaction with pets. This study proposes a mobility-aware algorithm to enable digital home technology for pets and implements the proposed system to prove that it meets the needs of pet owners.
Estimating the costs of VA ambulatory care.

This article reports how we matched Common Procedure Terminology (CPT)codes with Medicare payment rates and aggregate Veterans Affairs (VA)budget data to estimate the costs of every VA ambulatory e...
Directing the differentiation of embryonic stem cells to neural stem cells.

Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) are a potential source of neural derivatives that can be used in stem cell-based therapies designed to treat neurological disorders. The derivation of specific neuronal or glial cell types from ESCs invariably includes the production of neural stem cells (NSCs). We describe the basic mechanisms of neural induction during vertebrate embryogenesis and how this information helped formulate several protocols used to generate NSCs from ESCs. We highlight the advantages and disadvantages of each approach and review what has been learned about the intermediate stages in the transition from ESC to NSC. Recent data describing how specific growth factors and signaling molecules regulate production of NSCs are described and a model synthesizing this information is presented. Developmental Dynamics 236:3255–3266, 2007. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Evaluating variations of genotype calling: a potential source of spurious associations in genome-wide association studies

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) examine the entire human genome with the goal of identifying genetic variants (usually single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs)) that are associated with phenotypic traits such as disease status and drug response. The discordance of significantly associated SNPs for the same disease identified from different GWAS indicates that false associations exist in such results. In addition to the possible sources of spurious associations that have been investigated and discussed intensively, such as sample size and population stratification, an accurate and reproducible genotype calling algorithm is required for concordant GWAS results from different studies. However, variations of genotype calling of an algorithm and their effects on significantly associated SNPs identified in downstream association analyses have not been systematically investigated. In this paper, the variations of genotype calling using the Bayesian Robust Linear Model with Mahalanobis distance classifier (BRLMM) algorithm and the resulting influence on the lists of significantly associated SNPs were evaluated using the raw data of 270 HapMap samples analysed with the Affymetrix Human Mapping 500K Array Set (Affy500K) by changing algorithmic parameters. Modified were the Dynamic Model (DM) call confidence threshold (threshold) and the number of randomly selected SNPs (size). Comparative analysis of the calling results and the corresponding lists of significantly associated SNPs identified through association analysis revealed that algorithmic parameters used in BRLMM affected the genotype calls and the significantly associated SNPs. Both the threshold and the size affected the called genotypes and the lists of significantly associated SNPs in association analysis. The effect of the threshold was much larger than the effect of the size. Moreover, the heterozygous calls had lower consistency compared to the homozygous calls.
Discordant effects of carotid sinus massage and intravenous adenosine in atypical (fast-slow) atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia.

MILCHAK, M.A., et al.: Discordant Effects of Carotid Sinus Massage and Intravenous Adenosine in Atypical (Fast-Slow) Atrioventricular Nodal Reentrant Tachycardia The precise mechanism underlying supraventricular tachycardia with a long R-P interval is often difficult to assess noninvasively. Carotid sinus massage has been used traditionally to produce transient AV nodal conduction delay at the bedside, and may be of diagnostic or therapeutic benefit. More recently, adenosine has also been shown to be useful in this situation. We report the case of a patient with an incessant long R-P tachycardia in whom the response to CSM was misleading while the response to adenosine was diagnostic. The electrophysiologic responses to both maneuvers are displayed, and a mechanism for the discordant responses is proposed.
Adjustment of Undergraduate Latino Students at a Southeastern University Cultural Components of Academic and Social Integration

College campuses in the southeast United States are striving to understand and serve their newly arriving Latino students to promote adjustment and academic success. The purpose of this article is to outline the cultural components of academic and social integration of Latino college students at one southeastern campus, based on descriptive survey results. Participant responses reflected relatively smooth academic integration but some complications in the social/cultural areas. Implications for student affairs professionals are discussed.
Hourglass pore-forming domains restrict aquaporin-1 tetramer assembly.

The AQP1 water channel protein is a homotetramer with 28 kDa subunits containing six transmembrane domains. The sequence-related loops B (cytoplasmic) and E (extracellular) were predicted to overla...
Altered Cortical Expression of GABA-Related Genes in Schizophrenia: Illness Progression vs Developmental Disturbance

Background Schizophrenia is a neurodevelopmental disorder with altered expression of GABA-related genes in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). However, whether these gene expression abnormalities reflect disturbances in postnatal developmental processes before clinical onset or arise as a consequence of clinical illness remains unclear. Methods Expression levels for 7 GABA-related transcripts (vesicular GABA transporter [vGAT], GABA membrane transporter [GAT1], GABAA receptor subunit α1 [GABRA1] [novel in human and monkey cohorts], glutamic acid decarboxylase 67 [GAD67], parvalbumin, calretinin, and somatostatin [previously reported in human cohort, but not in monkey cohort]) were quantified in the PFC from 42 matched pairs of schizophrenia and comparison subjects and from 49 rhesus monkeys ranging in age from 1 week postnatal to adulthood. Results Levels of vGAT and GABRA1, but not of GAT1, messenger RNAs (mRNAs) were lower in the PFC of the schizophrenia subjects. As previously reported, levels of GAD67, parvalbumin, and somatostatin, but not of calretinin, mRNAs were also lower in these subjects. Neither illness duration nor age accounted for the levels of the transcripts with altered expression in schizophrenia. In monkey PFC, developmental changes in expression levels of many of these transcripts were in the opposite direction of the changes observed in schizophrenia. For example, mRNA levels for vGAT, GABRA1, GAD67, and parvalbumin all increased with age. Conclusions Together with published reports, these findings support the interpretation that the altered expression of GABA-related transcripts in schizophrenia reflects a blunting of normal postnatal development changes, but they cannot exclude a decline during the early stages of clinical illness.
Möbius 2.3: An extensible tool for dependability, security, and performance evaluation of large and complex system models

Mobius 2.3 is an extensible dependability, security, and performance modeling environment for large-scale discrete-event systems. It provides multiple model formalisms and solution techniques, facilitating the representation of each part of a system in the formalism that is most appropriate for it, and the application of the solution method or methods best-suited to estimating the system's behavior. Since its initial release in 2001, many advances have been made in Mobius's design and implementation that have strengthened its place in the modeling and analysis community. With almost a decade of widespread academic and industrial use, Mobius has proven itself to be useful in a wide variety of modeling situations. This paper documents the current feature set of Mobius 2.3, emphasizing recent significant enhancements.
Global Position Sensing and Step Activity as Outcome Measures of Community Mobility and Social Interaction for an Individual With a Transfemoral Amputation Due to Dysvascular Disease

Background and Purpose Community mobility of individuals following lower limb amputation is highly variable and has a great impact on their quality of life. Currently, clinical assessments of ambulatory ability and motivation influence prosthetic prescription. However, these outcome measures do not effectively quantify community mobility (ie, mobility outside of the clinic) of individuals with an amputation. Advances in global positioning systems (GPSs) and other wearable step-monitoring devices allow for objective, quantifiable measurement of community mobility. This case report will examine the combined use of a GPS unit and a step activity monitor to quantify community mobility and social interaction of an individual with transfemoral amputation due to dysvascular disease. Case Description A 76-year-old woman with a unilateral transfemoral amputation due to vascular disease carried a commercial GPS unit and step activity monitor to quantify her community mobility and social interaction every day over a period of 1 month. The step activity monitor was affixed to her prosthesis. The patient used a wheelchair as well as her prosthesis for everyday mobility. Outcome Information from the GPS unit and step activity monitor provided quantitative details on the patient's steps taken in and out of the home, wheelchair use, prosthesis use, driving trips, and time spent on social and community trips. Discussion This case report describes a potential clinical measurement procedure for quantifying community mobility and social interaction of an individual with lower limb amputation. Future efforts are needed to validate this measurement tool on large sample sizes and in individuals with different mobility levels. Additionally, automatization of data analysis and technological approaches to reduce compromised GPS signals may eventually lead to a practical, clinically useful tool.
Performance bounds on error probability of serially concatenated convolutional codes and CPM in fading channels

Serial concatenation of convolutional codes and CPM through an interleaver has a similar structure as serially concatenated turbo codes. Although the union bound, which is an analytical tool to estimate the bit error probability of such systems, is tight for high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), it diverges for low SNR where the performance of our system is the most appealing. For this reason, we apply improved upper bounding techniques to our system to estimate the performance at low SNR. We show that by applying these techniques, it is possible to obtain 1 dB or more improvement over the union bound in fading channels.
An Individual Barnacle, Semibalanus Balanoides, with Two Penises

Abstract During the late fall and early winter of 2007, we collected intertidal barnacles and observed reproductive activity. Among these, we found an otherwise normal barnacle that had two penises. At least one of these penises is inferred to have retained normal function and to have fertilized the egg brood of the barnacle's neighbor.
Lessons from the Cold War: Military Service and College Education

Since World War II, the federal government has provided funds to pay for the education of veterans through the GI bill. Yet, these funds were unavailable from 1955 to 1965. This article considers four potentially overlapping hypotheses to describe the effect of military service on veterans' educational attainment in the absence of government funding. Military service may have (1) reproduced civilian status defined by social background, (2) reflected the process of selection on the basis of individual characteristics, (3) changed men's educational trajectories by providing a positive turning point, or (4) disrupted the educational portion of the transition to adulthood. The results indicate that veterans who were drafted were less likely than were nonveterans and veterans who were not drafted to go on to college, which is consistent with the disruption hypothesis, and that military service diverted academically ambitious men from their plans for higher education. Thus, military service disrupted some men's...
Microfabrication of asymmetric, homogeneous cell-laden hydrogel microcapsules

Cell encapsulation has been broadly investigated as a technology to provide immunoprotection for transplanted endocrine cells. Here we develop a new fabrication method that allows for rapid, homogenous microencapsulation of insulin-secreting cells with varying microscale geometries and asymmetrically modified surfaces. Micromolding systems were developed using polypropylene mesh, and the mesh material/surface properties associated with efficient encapsulation were identified. Cells encapsulated using these methods maintain desirable viability and preserve their ability to proliferate and secrete insulin in a glucose-responsive manner. This new cell encapsulation approach enables a practical route to an inexpensive and convenient process for the generation of cell-laden microcapsules without requiring any specialized equipment or microfabrication process.
Application of synthetic sex pheromone for management of diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella, in cabbage

Over a 2-year period field trials were conducted to assess the potential to disrupt mating of Plutella xylostella (L.) using a commercial rope formulation of a 70:30 mixture of (Z)-11-hexadecenal and (Z)-11-hexadecenyl acetate, two components of the sex pheromone of the female. Screened field cages were placed into blocks of cabbage which were either treated with the pheromone or left untreated. Different densities of P. xylostella pupae were placed into each cage and then larval and pupal counts were made of the subsequent generation. In addition, sentinel females at mating stations were placed in each cage to assess the influence of the pheromone on the ability of males to locate and mate with females. Likewise, we used pheromone traps to assess whether the pheromone treatment influenced the ability of males to locate a pheromone source. In both years larval and pupal populations, produced as a result of the original inoculation, did not differ between pheromone-treated and untreated fields. The effect of pheromone treatment on larval and pupal numbers did not change with changes in inoculated P. xylostella density, however, the density of P. xylostella released caused significant differences in the density of the subsequent generation. No significant differences were detected between the number of sentinel female adult P. xylostella that successfully mated in pheromone-treated fields compared with untreated fields. Significant differences in the numbers of male P. xylostella caught in pheromone-baited traps occurred between pheromone-treated and untreated fields in the first trial of 1993, and in the first trial in 1994 but not in the second trial. Such differences are often thought of as indications of mating disruption, although our other data presented in this study and reports from other studies indicate this is not always the case. Previous studies on mating disruption of P. xylostella in larger scale field tests have been performed but the results have been variable and often ambiguous. Overall, our results indicate that mating disruption of P. xylostella with the present technology does not appear to work even under the very controlled situations which we utilized to eliminate insect movement between plots.
On the Use of the Force–Restore SVAT Model Formulation for Stratified Soils

Abstract An approach to simulate soil moisture content with the force–restore soil–vegetation–atmosphere transfer (SVAT) model in the case of stratified soils is proposed. Typical soil profiles possess marked variation in soil hydraulic properties from the soil surface to the base of the root zone. The force–restore method is extensively used for land surface modeling in atmospheric models but without any specific consideration for dealing with stratified soils. Drainage from and recharge to the near-surface soil layer is classically estimated on the basis of the volumetric soil moisture differences between the near surface and lower root zone, with an adjustment for gravitational effects. However, moisture differences do not relate uniquely to differences in hydraulic potentials when the soil properties are vertically inhomogeneous. As a consequence, the classical force–restore formulation does not correctly represent vertical fluxes, and it results in biased time series of predicted near-surface soil mo...
Experimental study design and grant writing in eight steps and 28 questions

While writing a grant proposal may take a few days, the planning of the study takes much longer and requires thoughtful consideration. The use of a systematic and itemised approach can help in planning crucial details of a study. An eight-step, 28-question, iterative approach is proposed to help with the careful planning of experiments in order to maximise the researchers' chances of acceptance when submitting the study for funding and its results for publication. The steps include defining a relevant research question; selecting instrumentation, study design and statistics; determining sample size and sampling procedure; ensuring data quality throughout data collection and analysis; setting personnel and budget requirements, and writing a convincing grant proposal. Reviewers pay particular attention to the importance of the research topic and question, the presence of a clear problem statement and up to date review of the literature, the use of an optimal design and instrumentation, a sufficient and unbiased sample, and appropriate and well applied statistics. They also appreciate a clear and easy to follow proposal. The research question is the keystone of the entire enterprise, followed by the selection of an optimal study design and the control of possible confounding variables. No study is perfect. The researchers must constantly weigh advantages and disadvantages and select the most scientifically sound and feasible alternatives. While the steps and questions presented are best applied to experimental studies, the principles are also applicable to a wide range of questions and observational, evaluative and qualitative designs.
Photometric Errors in Equilibrium and Kinetic Analyses Based on Absorption Spectroscopy

We report a detailed analysis of the effects of photometric errors in absorption spectroscopy. We show that photometric errors can be divided into five categories, each having a different effect on the relative concentration error for equilibrium and kinetic analyses. Error coefficients defined for each category are incorporated into mathematical equations that permit one to calculate both systematic and random components of the error. We show that the transmittance for minimum error depends largely on the types of errors that predominate, and equations are presented that can be used to predict the optimum point for any combination of systematic or random error coefficients. These equations are applied successfully to one commercial spectrometer for which data were published recently and to two custom-designed spectrometers with very different performance characteristics. We think that this error analysis can be applied successfully to virtually any spectrometer currently used in clinical laboratories and that the results of the analysis will identify the nature and origin of the major sources of error. We believe this to be an essential step in any program aimed at improving reliability of analytical results.
In operando X-ray studies of the conversion reaction in Mn3O4 lithium battery anodes

The pursuit of energy storage systems with high energy density has revealed several exciting possibilities, including the unexpectedly reversible conversion reactions between metal oxides and lithium for lithium ion battery anodes. The mechanistic complexity of the drastic chemical and structural changes as well as the sensitivity of the reaction intermediates and products to ambient conditions mean that the reaction mechanism is best studied by non-destructive techniques in the native battery environment (in operando). This work applies synchrotron X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) to directly observe the conversion reaction of a Mn3O4 anode previously shown to have promising electrochemical performance. The results enable the assignment of electrochemical features to specific reactions, including the formation of LiMn3O4, MnO, metallic Mn, and non-metal-centered reactions, and elucidate the difference between the first and subsequent lithiation reactions. In operando XAS clearly shows that a significant fraction of the charge is stored in non-Mn-centered reactions, a result with serious implications for Mn3O4, in particular, and other metal oxide conversion anodes, in general. This study emphasizes the importance of in situ/in operando studies on next-generation electrode materials to confirm that the observed charge transfer is due to the desired electrochemical reactions.
Elevated brain lesion volumes in older adults who use calcium supplements: a cross sectional clinical observational study

Recent studies have implicated Ca supplements in vascular risk elevation, and therefore these supplements may also be associated with the occurrence of brain lesions (or hyperintensities) in older adults. These lesions represent damage to brain tissue that is caused by ischaemia. In the present cross-sectional clinical observational study, the association between Ca-containing dietary supplement use and lesion volumes was investigated in a sample of 227 older adults (60 years and above). Food and supplemental Ca intakes were assessed with the Block 1998 FFQ; participants with supplemental Ca intake above zero were categorised as supplement users. Lesion volumes were determined from cranial MRI (1.5 tesla) scans using a semi-automated technique; volumes were log-transformed because they were non-normal. ANCOVA models revealed that supplement users had greater lesion volumes than non-users, even after controlling for food Ca intake, age, sex, race, years of education, energy intake, depression and hypertension (Ca supplement use: β = 0.34, SE 0.10, F(1,217)= 10.98, P= 0.0011). The influence of supplemental Ca use on lesion volume was of a magnitude similar to that of the influence of hypertension, a well-established risk factor for lesions. Among the supplement users, the amount of supplemental Ca was not associated with lesion volume (β = - 0.000035, SE 0.00 015, F(1,139)= 0.06, P= 0.81). The present study demonstrates that the use of Ca-containing dietary supplements, even low-dose supplements, by older adults may be associated with greater lesion volumes. Evaluation of randomised controlled trials is warranted to determine whether this relationship is a causal one.
Effects of Extremely Low Frequency (Elf) Electric Fields On Cell Growth and Dna Repair In Human Skin Fibroblasts

A number of physical and chemical agents in the environment have been studied for their ability to induce or alter DNA repair mechanisms in human cells. We have investigated the effects of 60 Hz, 1000 V/cm electric fields on DNA repair in normal human fibroblasts in vitro. An examination was done on the ability of electric fields suspected to cause damage which could be repaired by thymine dimer excision and measurable by the bromodeoxyuridine photolysis assay. The thymine dimer assay with enzyme-sensitive site analysis was used to measure the cells' capacity for removing ultraviolet light (u.v.)-induced pyrimidine dimers; during exposure to electric field 24 hr before u.v. irradiation; 24 hr after u.v. irradiation; and up to 48 hr continuously after u.v. irradiation. Cell growth and cell survival following electric field exposure were also studied. Within the limits of these experiments, it was found that exposure to such electric fields did not alter cell growth or survival, and no DNA repair or alteration in DNA excision repair capacity was observed as compared with unexposed control cultures.
Dyspnea in overweight children: is it asthma?

In a Dutch birth cohort study published in this issue of the Journal, children had an increased risk of bronchial hyperresponsiveness or dyspnea at age 8 years if they had a high body mass index (BMI) at 6 to 7 years of age with or without increased BMI at an earlier age. Taking advantage of the longitudinal nature of their study of 3,756 children, the authors also report the encouraging finding that children who had a high BMI at a young age but whose BMI returned to normal did not have increased risk either of bronchial hyperresponsiveness or dyspnea. As always, extrapolation from an observational study to early-life interventions should be done cautiously. It is not known whether children whose BMI decreases without any known deliberate intervention are the subset of children who might benefit from BMI screening or from weight-reduction programs. Programs for screening and early intervention in obesity abound, but further prospective evaluation of their success in reducing weight and obesity-associated respiratory symptoms is needed. But what does overweight-associated dyspnea signify in the children from this birth cohort, and is dyspnea a symptom of asthma, as the investigators suggest? Mouse model data suggest that obesity can lead to bronchial hyperresponsiveness. Airway narrowing can occur through obesity-associated lung and tidal volume reduction, low-grade systemic inflammation, or obesity-related changes in adipose-derived hormones, including leptin and adiponectin. Nevertheless, studies of adults in which data suggest that asthma might be overdiagnosed in obese adults with dyspnea are accumulating. Misdiagnosis of asthma can result in inappropriate prescription of short-acting bronchodilators or corticosteroids in persons who are short of breath for obesity-related dyspnea that does not represent reversible airway obstruction. In a study of 16,171 participants ( 17 years of age) from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, the highest BMI quintile (ie, the most obese participants) was associated with the greatest risk of self-reported asthma, bronchodilator use, and dyspnea with exertion (odds ratio, 2.66; 95% CI, 2.35-3.00). The highest BMI quintile, however, had the lowest risk for significant airflow
Turbulence generated by the interaction of entropy fluctuations with non-uniform mean flows

The turbulence generated by random entropy fluctuations in an accelerating stream is analyzed. The results are obtained by using rapid distortion theory together with a high frequency solution of a previously developed wave equation that governs the small-amplitude unsteady vortical and entropic motion on steady potential flows (Goldstein, 1978). Simple results are obtained for the case of symmetric contraction, expansion or combination of the two. It is shown that the energy of the entropy-generated turbulence increases more rapidly with the contraction ratio of a subsonic flow than that of any imposed upstream turbulence. This result indicates that the entropy-generated turbulence may be more significant than the hydrodynamically generated turbulence in the turbine stages of aircraft engines.
Soft tissue malignant fibrous histiocytoma in a finger

W e treated a patient with a malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH) of the index finger by radical ray resection followed by external-beam radiotherapy and chemotherapy. This is a rare lesion. Two cases have been reported in the finger,‘, ’ six in the hand,3-8 and two in the wrist.6 Multimodality protocols for treatment of soft tissue sarcoma (STS) were introduced in the 1970~~ and confirmed in the 198Os,” with improvement in survival rates. One case of MFH in the palm of the hand has been treated with multimodality treatment with a 4-month survival,3 but results of multimodality treatment in the digits have not been described.
Research Article: Effects of nanosecond pulsed laser light on porcine retinal pigment epithelium

Abstract Laser technology and use is rapidly expanding in medical, industrial, commercial, and military applications. As a result, the likelihood of inadvertent ocular exposure has also increased. Risks may be especially acute for military personnel when employment occurs under less than ideal circumstances. The ocular tissue layer most susceptible to laser damage is the retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) due to the highly absorptive nature of its melanin-containing pigment granules. We enucleated pig eyes and exposed the RPE layer to 3 ns pulsed laser-light using a ND:YAG laser. Changes in cellular ultrastructure were observed in 48 h post exposure by transmission electron microscopy. Pigment granules of laser-treated cells showed decreased pigment content and loss of elliptical shape but were otherwise normal and bounded by discrete membranes. Pigment granules appeared striated and in various stages of maturity suggesting capacity for melanin regeneration after laser damage. Thermal denaturation and pho...
Irradiation Behavior of Bonded Structures: Impact of Swelling-Creep-Stress Relationship

AbstractRadiation damage will be a major key point in the design of the many duplex components in fusion reactors. There is a substantial amount of available data showing that stress plays a major role in die onset, and possibly the rate, of void growth in austenitic stainless steels. There is also a strong support for models which predict a coupling of swelling and creep through the stress environment A parametric study for the stress-enhanced swelling and its connection to creep is conducted for a typical fusion power demonstration reactor.
Update on community-acquired pneumonia: impact of antibiotic resistance on clinical outcomes.

In contrast to the rapid expansion in the number of published studies reporting the increasing rate of antimicrobial drug resistance among common respiratory pathogens, there remain few controlled studies examining the impact of these trends on clinical outcomes. Those studies that are published are
Electron Momentum States and Bremsstrahlung Radiation from Ultra-Intense Atomic Field Ionization

To date, classical trajectory and Monte-Carlo techniques have been used to model ultraintense field electron dynamics1. Some salient points, such as the electron energy gain2 enhancement when the electrons are introduced at the right phase of the field 3 and the non-planar electron dynamics in a real laser focus4, have been established by these methods. Fully quantum calculations using the Dirac or Klein-Gordon equation are difficult but have also been used to gain insight into electron-ion scattering 5 and the properties of the continuum wave functions6. Interactions at the atomic level are quantum mechanical, and incorporation of the quantum nature into model is essential for an accurate representation of many phenomena. Keeping this in mind, we present the results from a semi-classical, wavelet model of the continuum that incorporates the quantum mechanical tunnel ionization. In this approach a classical relativistic trajectory is generated for each time interval. Every trajectory has a corresponding ionization probability associated with it and is called a wavelet. When all these wavelets are projected onto position or momentum spaces they create, albeit semi-classically, a dynamical view of the atomic response of a bound electron to the ultra-intense field during the whole laser pulse. The wavelet approach allows us to model the spatially distributed electron probability in the continuum, calculate a probability distribution of continuum momentum states, and capture (as shown in Fig. 1) a clear change in the continuum dynamics from 1017W/cm2 to 1020W/cm2. The momentum states of the semiclassical electron probability are used to interpret the dynamics at ultrahigh intensities and model, e.g., the bremsstrahlung radiation spectrum. Normalized to give the total energy radiated by a single electron, i.e. one ionization event, the bremsstrahlung radiation is shown in Fig. 2. The spectrum is relatively flat out to the cutoff energy, which scales linearly with intensity. This material is based upon work supported by Research Corporation and the National Science Foundation under Grant No. 0140331.
Analysis of Fatty Acid and Alcoholic Components of Sebaceous Lipid Types

Lipids were extracted from hair, scalp wipings, ovarian dermoid cysts, and vernix caseosa and submitted to alkaline hydrolysis. Alumina chromatography applied to the unsaponifiable portions allowed for the separation of hydrocarbons, alcohols, and sterols. The fatty acids from the saponifiable mixtures were converted to the methyl esters and analyzed by gas chromatography in conjunction with mass spectrometry. This technique permitted the identification of the even, odd, iso, and anteiso fatty acid levels of the various pools. Analysis of the alcohols was afforded by gas chromatography of the acetates. Ratios were determined among the acidic and alcoholic components of each lipid class and the alcoholic constituents of each pool appeared to be increased by two C2-fragments over the average carbon number of the corresponding acid fraction. Branched components ranged higher in all alcohol mixtures as compared to the respective acids and thus, indicative of a specificity for the synthesis of a specificity for the synthesis of alcohols.
Comparative Effects of Colchicine and Vincaleukoblastine on Bone Marrow Mitotic Activity in Syrian Hamster.

SummaryThe effect of Vincaleukoblastine and colchicine on mitotic activity of bone marrow cells was studied in the Syrian hamster. Vincaleukoblastine at a dosage of 1 mg/kg. administered intraperitoneally, caused metaphase arrest of all dividing cells. Colchicine, at a dosage of 1.2 mg/kg, which caused effective metaphase arrest of dividing cells in mice, rats, and other animals, did not demonstrate stathmokinetic effect in hamsters. A single injection of 2.4 mg/kg of colchicine caused partial metaphase arrest. There was no apparent increase in the stathmokinetic effect by increasing the dose of colchicine from 2.4 to 7.2 mg/kg.We are indebted to Miss A. Wagner for technical assistance, and to the Eli Lilly Co., Indianapolis, Ind., for a generous supply of Vincaleukoblastine.
Self-Management of Wellness and Illness in an Aging Population

In this chapter, we review the last 10 years of literature on self-management of illnesses (acute/episodic and chronic) and wellness (e.g., health promotion). We focus on health self-management in the context of an aging population, wherein middle-aged adults are more likely to be managing wellness activities and older adults are often managing both maintenance of health and chronic illnesses. The critical issues related to self-management of health are discussed, including those imposed by health care demands and those stemming from individual differences in general abilities (e.g., motor, perception, cognition) and socioemotional characteristics. The dynamic relationship between theory and practice is highlighted. Health care demands reflect the nature of the illness or wellness activity and include managing comorbidities, symptoms, and medications; engaging in health promotion activities (e.g., exercise, diet); the required use of health technologies; the need for health-related information; and coordi...
Stripping voltammetry of nanomolar potassium and ammonium ions using a valinomycin-doped double-polymer electrode.

Here, we report on the first application of an ionophore-doped double-polymer electrode for ion-transfer stripping voltammetry (ITSV) to explore the nanomolar limit of detection (LOD) and multiple-ion detectability. We developed a theoretical model for ITSV at a thin ionophore-doped membrane on the solid supporting electrode to demonstrate that its LOD is controlled by the equilibrium preconcentration of an aqueous analyte ion as an ionophore complex into the thin polymer membrane and is lowered by the formation of a more stable ion–ionophore complex. The theoretical predictions were confirmed using valinomycin as a K+-selective ionophore, which forms a ∼60 times more stable complex with K+ than with NH4+, as confirmed by cyclic voltammetry. A LOD of 0.6 nM K+ was achieved by ITSV using commercial ultrapure water as a K+-free media, where NH4+ contamination at a higher concentration was also detected by ITSV. The dependence of the ITSV response on the preconcentration time was monitored under the rotating...
Learning, Investment, and Entrepreneurial Survival: A Real Options Approach

Empirical evidence shows that entrepreneurs on average do not earn more than paid employees in terms of the net present value (NPV). One natural question is what makes the entrepreneurs to stay in business. To address this question, we propose a continuous time real options model in which an entrepreneur does not know his investment quality and learn about it over time. We show that due to the option value of learning, an entrepreneur may stay in business even though the NPV is negative. We also show that risk aversion erodes option value and lowers private firm value so that a highly risk averse entrepreneur may exit even when the NPV is positive. In addition, a more risk averse or a more pessimistic entrepreneur exits earlier. Finally, the model can generate the positive relation between wealth and survival duration without liquidity constraints.
Analyzing rhetoric : a frame analysis of the pro-life movement in the United States.

ANALYZING RHETORIC: A FRAME ANALYSIS OF THE PRO-LIFE MOVEMENT IN THE UNITED STATES Juanita Raley Shever December 1, 2003 The purpose of this study is to consider the significance of rhetoric used by prolife social movement organizations to frame the experience of abortion and to label those women who have participated in that experience. The study explores how frames are devised and how these frames are applied so that reality is organized in such a manner as to appear aligned with the religious, moral, and/or philosophical position of the pro-life movement. The study uses pro-life web pages to obtain data; then, analyzes the data for emerging themes and content. The general tasks of framing such as agenda setting are analyzed through the frames discovered in the data. These tasks and frames are constructed as a typology that shows the interactions between the tasks and the ideologies.
Simulation model for in-service rig derrick based on finite dynamic model

In order to improve the precision of simulation and reduce the discrepancy between the theoretical calculation and testing result,the model for analysis of the in-service rig derrick was established on the basis of the finite dynamic model using optimization method.Based on a simple and applicable method for sensitivity analysis,the updating parameters were determined such as material,cross shape and size of the main loading rods in the rig derrick.The optimal updating function was established according to the residual differential value between testing modal parameter and theoretical modal parameter.The first-order optimization algorithm was used to optimize and assess the updating parameters.The simulation analysis on an in-service rig derrick was carried out using the linear buckling,geometric nonlinear and double nonlinear methods.The result proves that the calculation of modified model based finite element model is close to the test result.This method is favorable for the forecast of bearing capacity and safety evaluation of rig derrick in the practical engineering.
Configuration method research for automatic hydrological telemetry station of power supply

The articleintroduces the automatic hydrological forecast system,the solar cell and battery configuration and implementation steps of calculating method,Aiming at the key equipment of power consumption under different conditions to estimation problems,the design of online measurement correction method,this method has been successfully applied to practical projects.
Transformation of Burkholderia pseudomallei by electroporation.

Abstract Conditions were defined for the successful transformation of the human pathogen Burkholderia pseudomallei 4845 by electroporation, using the incQ plasmid pKT230. We have obtained frequencies of up to 8 × 10 3 transformants per microgram plasmid DNA with freshly prepared electrocompetent B. pseudomallei. The method also allows for easy and reproducible production of frozen cell suspensions which can produce efficiencies up to 2.5 × 10 2 transformants per microgram of plasmid DNA. Kanamycin had to be added to the culture growth medium at a minimum concentration of 20 μg ml −1 and a maximum concentration of 50 μg ml −1 for the bacteria to become electrocompetent. Bacteria grown in medium containing a final concentration of 30 μg ml −1 kanamycin produced the highest numbers of transformants, although the transformation frequency at this concentration was not as efficient as that at 50 μg ml −1 . Electron microscopy indicated that the kanamycin affects the integrity of the bacterial outer membrane, which becomes loose and wrinkled in appearance. The electrocompetence does not result in a permanent morphological change.
MUGA scan of apicoaortic conduit with incidental finding of pseudoaneurysm and repeat scan after aneurysmectomy

This is a case of a 77-year-old woman who underwent a multiple-gated acquisition (MUGA) scan to evaluate her cardiac function after initially presenting with chest pain and shortness of breath. The scan revealed the presence of an apicoaortic conduit (AAC) and incidentally found a left ventricular pseudoaneurysm. After aneurysmectomy, the MUGA scan was repeated.
Genomic Landscape of poorly Differentiated and Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma

Poorly differentiated thyroid carcinoma (PDTC) and anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) are aggressive thyroid tumors associated with a high mortality rate of 38-57 % and almost 100 % respectively. Several recent studies utilizing next generation sequencing techniques have shed lights on the molecular pathogenesis of these tumors, providing evidence to support a stepwise tumoral progression from well-differentiated to poorly differentiated, and finally to anaplastic thyroid carcinomas. While BRAF (V600E) and RAS mutations remain the main drivers in aggressive thyroid carcinoma, PDTC and ATC gains additional mutations, e.g., TERT promoter mutation, TP53 mutation, as well as frequent alterations in PIK3CA-PTEN-AKT-mTOR pathway, SWI-SNF complex, histomethyltransferases, and mismatch repair genes. RAS-mutated PDTCs are commonly associated with a histologic phenotype defined by Turin proposal, high frequency of distant metastasis, high thyroid differentiation score, and a RAS-like gene expression profile, whereas BRAF-mutated PDTCs are usually defined solely by the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) criteria with a propensity for nodal metastasis and are less differentiated with a BRAF-like expression signature. Such demarcation is largely lost in ATC which is characterized by genomic complexity, heavy mutation burden, and profound undifferentiation. Additionally, several molecular events, e.g., EIF1AX mutation, mutation burden, and chromosome 1q gain in PDTCs, as well as EIF1AX mutation, chromosome 13q loss, and 20q gains in ATCs, may serve as adverse prognostic markers predicting poor clinical outcome.
Pregnancy-Induced Dynamical and Structural Changes of Reproductive Tract Collagen.

Abstract The tissues and organs of the female reproductive tract and pelvic floor undergo significant remodeling and alterations to allow for fetal growth and birth. In this work, we report on a study of the alterations of murine reproductive tract collagen resulting from pregnancy and parturition by spectrophotometry, histology, and 13 C, 2 H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Four different cohorts of rats were investigated that included virgin, multiparous, two- and fourteen-day postpartum primiparous rats. 13 C CPMAS NMR revealed small chemical shift differences across the cohorts. The measured H-C internuclear correlation times indicated differences in dynamics of some motifs. However, the dynamics of the major amino acids, e.g., Gly, remained unaltered with respect to parity. 2 H NMR relaxation measurements revealed an additional water reservoir in the postpartum and multiparous cohorts pointing to redistribution of water due to pregnancy and/or parturition. Spectrophotometric measurements indicated that the collagen content in virgin rats was highest. Histological analysis of the upper vaginal wall indicated a signature of collagen fiber dissociation with smooth muscle and a change in the density of collagen fibers in multiparous rats.
Salivary Biomarkers, Oral Inflammation, and Functional Status in Patients With Heart Failure.

Aims:To describe correlations and agreement between salivary and serum B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-10 and determine which biomarkers predi...