cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Activation of purified calcium channels by stoichiometric protein phosphorylation.

Abstract Purified dihydropyridine-sensitive calcium channels from rabbit skeletal muscle were reconstituted into phosphatidylcholine vesicles to evaluate the effect of phosphorylation by cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase (PK-A) on their function. Both the rate and extent of 45Ca2+ uptake into vesicles containing reconstituted calcium channels were increased severalfold after incubation with ATP and PK-A. The degree of stimulation of 45Ca2+ uptake was linearly proportional to the extent of phosphorylation of the alpha 1 and beta subunits of the calcium channel up to a stoichiometry of approximately 1 mol of phosphate incorporated into each subunit. The calcium channels activated by phosphorylation were determined to be incorporated into the reconstituted vesicles in the inside-out orientation and were completely inhibited by low concentrations of dihydropyridines, phenylalkylamines, Cd2+, Ni2+, and Mg2+. The results demonstrate a direct relationship between PK-A-catalyzed phosphorylation of the alpha 1 and beta subunits of the purified calcium channel and activation of the ion conductance activity of the dihydropyridine-sensitive calcium channels.
A novel passive polymeric micromixer using 3D porous structure

In microfluidic related chemical and biological applications, mixing on the micro scale is important and has been considered as one of the most challenging tasks. With a trend for polymeric microfluidic systems, a simple yet efficient passive micromixer is highly preferred [1–4]. We developed a novel passive micromixer with 3D porous microstructure on a polymer chip. The fabrication process uses high-intensity focused ultrasound to selectively foam gas-impregnated polymers. The selective ultrasonic foaming technique is simple, low-cost, and biocompatible. The porous microstructure is easily controlled by adjusting the parameters of the ultrasonic foaming process. The 3D porous microstructure can split, stretch, fold and break the mixing flows in microfluidic channels and thus dramatically improve the mixing efficiency.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Comparative methods for handling missing data in large databases

Objective Analysis of complex survey databases is an important tool for health services researchers. Missing data elements are challenging because the reasons for "missingness" are multifactorial, especially categorical variables such as race. We simulated missing data for race and analyzed the bias from five methods used in predicting major amputation in patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI). Methods Patient discharges with fully observed data containing lower extremity revascularization or major amputation and CLI were selected from the 2003 to 2007 Nationwide Inpatient Sample, a complex survey database (weighted n = 684,057). Considering several random missing data schemes, we compared five missing data methods: complete case analysis, replacement with observed frequencies, missing indicator variable, multiple imputation, and reweighted estimating equations. We created 100 simulated data sets, with 5%, 15%, or 30% of subjects' race drawn to be missing from the full data set. Bias was estimated by comparing the estimated regression coefficients averaged over 100 simulated data sets (β miss ) from each method vs estimates from the fully observed data set (β full ), with relative bias calculated as (β full – β miss /β full ) × 100%. Results Our results demonstrate that reweighted estimating equations produce the least biased and the missing indicator variable produces the most biased coefficients. Complete case analysis, replacement with observed frequencies, and multiple imputation resulted in moderate bias. Sensitivity analysis demonstrated the optimal method choice depends on the quantity and type of missing data encountered. Conclusions Missing data are an important analytic topic in research with large databases. The commonly used missing indicator variable method introduces severe bias and should be used with caution. We present empiric evidence to guide method selection for handling missing data.
A theory for nonlinear soft webs

Abstract In this paper, a fundamental theory for deformable webs not resisting any compressive membrane forces is developed through a direct derivation on the deformed configuration. In order to better describe the deformable webs, the classification of deformable webs is presented. A theory for the non-continuum elastic network webs consisting of many deformable cables is presented from the deformable cable theory, and then a theory for fabric deformable webs without relative sliding is developed as well. Finally, a nonlinear theory for continuous deformable webs is presented on the deformed configuration. The local criteria for the existence of such deformable webs are presented through the definitions, and such criteria are very significant for the wrinkling stability of the deformable webs. A deformable web possessing the local wrinkling is an unsolved problem in numerical computations. The theory for fabric webs with relative motions needs to be further developed. Herein the fundamental theory for deformable webs is presented only, and numerical examples will be presented in sequel. Such a theory of deformable webs can be applied to textile or other soft materials and bio-membranes.
Signs of the times: Language as sign in these times

This essay is a survey of twelve recently published books contributing to the general interdisciplinary movement that, recognizing the immense role of sign systems, and especially language, in human understanding, relationships, and actions, is attempting to find ever more comprehensive and powerful ways of analyzing such systems. All offer insights into language, literature or culture.
Do we need to irradiate all small invasive breast cancers and DCIS

Breast radiotherapy after lumpectomy is considered standard for nearly all patients with invasive breast cancer and is recommended for many patients after lumpectomy for ductal carcinoma in situ (D...
Gender effects on perceptions of external assets, development of resilience and academic achievement: Perpetuation theory approach

This study found that gender had an effect on external assets and resiliency among urban high school students. Significantly greater caring relations, high expectations, and opportunities for participation in meaningful activities (external assets) from parents, teachers, peers, and adults in the community were available to girls than to boys. Girls also scored higher on resiliency. It was noted that higher resiliency scores did not afford girls an edge in academic achievement nor break the barrier of stereotyping. Instead, the expectations to behave within a given range of possibilities were self-perpetuating. Higher scores in external assets and resilience and low correlations with academic achievement among girls were indicators of perpetuated values that led to complacency and conformity, not to competitiveness, creativity, and curiosity. However, lower scores in external assets and resiliency also may have explained some of the behavioral traits in boys about which researchers currently are concerned.
Elementary School Nurses' Perceptions of Student Bullying.

The aim of this study was to assess elementary school nurses' perceptions of student bullying, actions when they encounter bullies or victims, and perceived level of preparation for dealing with this problem. School nurses identified the most common barriers to dealing with bullying, which included bullying taking place where the nurse is not supervising (49%), someone else in the school being more qualified to address bullying (41%), not having enough time (26%), and not being prepared to handle the problem (25%). Only 14% stated that there were no barriers to dealing with student bullying. School nurses believed that the most effective means to reduce school bullying were consistent discipline and improved supervision. However, these perceptions are not in line with current research, which indicates that the most effective method to reduce bullying is to create a whole-school atmosphere to prevent the problem from occurring.
Provocative techniques should not be used for the diagnosis of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures.

Patients with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (NES) have episodes of abnormal movements, alterations of awareness and unresponsiveness that appear similar to epileptic seizures. Unlike epileptic seizures, however, these spells occur in the absence of concurrent epileptiform activity in the brain. Such episodes are common, occurring in approximately 20% of those presenting to academic epilepsy centers for evaluation [1]. Although there is no gold standard process for diagnosis, the most common approach involves capturing the spell during electroencephalography (EEG), to demonstrate the lack of corresponding epileptiform discharges. Often patients with NES will not have spells while undergoing EEG monitoring, however, which creates difficulty in establishing a diagnosis and often leads to the use of induction procedures. Historically, the neurologists’ approach to the diagnosis of NES or other forms of conversion disorder has been controversial. In the 19th century, Charcot developed criteria for the differentiation of ‘‘hysterical attacks” from epilepsy, which included the precipitation or termination of spells by pressing on the ovaries or other ‘‘hysterogenic” areas [2]. A review of his works revealed that he was ‘‘not above slight trickery” or suggestion, as when he spoke offensively to a patient with psychogenic hearing loss to elicit a response [3]. Others in this time period were reported to use more radical methods. Gowers’ approach included applying electric shocks, covering the face with a towel to the point of asphyxiation, pouring water in the mouth, inducing vomiting with apomorphine, and pulling on pubic hair to abort spells and establish a diagnosis [4]. Perhaps the most colorful story from this era is that of Mitchell’s consultation on a puzzling case of paralysis. After examining the patient, he requested that the other doctors step into the hallway. When he joined them a moment later, they asked if the patient would ever walk again. He responded ‘‘yes, in a moment,” at which time the patient ran out of the room. When asked what happened, Dr. Mitchell replied, ‘‘I set the bedclothes on fire” [5]. In the midto late-20th century, diagnostic methods for conversion disorder may have been more ‘‘humane,” but nevertheless deceptive. Many physicians advocated the use of placebos for the diagnosis of conversion disorder in its various forms. Levy and Jankovic [6] reported a particularly striking case in which they documented a ‘‘dose dependent” reaction to a placebo injection, resulting in psychogenic nonfluent aphasia, NES, and profound
Relationship between plasma corticosterone and insulin levels in rats with ventromedial hypothalamic lesions.

Abstract The effects of ventromedial hypothalamic (VMH) lesions on plasma corticosterone, insulin, and glucose levels were studied in food-restricted and ad lib fed female rats. VMH lesions resulted in significant elevations of corticosterone and insulin levels compared to control values during the first 25 days after surgery. However, unlike insulin values which were generally greater in VMH rats fed ad lib than in food-restricted animals, plasma corticosterone levels were unaffected by level of food intake. Corticosterone and insulin levels were unrelated preoperatively and in sham-operated animals, but were positively correlated (r=.82) by Day 25 in ad lib fed VMH rats. It is concluded that the elevation in plasma glucocorticoids observed in VMH rats is a primary effect of the lesion that is independent of food intake or initial weight gain.
Local and commissural neuropeptide-containing projections of the nucleus of the solitary tract to the dorsal vagal complex in the pigeon.

The neuropeptide content of neurons of the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS), which have local and commissural projections to the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMNX) and to NTS, were demonstrated in the pigeon (Columba livia) by using a combined fluorescein-bead retrograde-transport-immunofluorescence technique. The specific peptides studied were bombesin, cholecystokinin, enkephalin, galanin, neuropeptide Y, neurotensin, and substance P. Perikarya immunoreactive for bombesin were located in the Medial tier subnuclei of NTS and the caudal NTS. Most galanin- and substance P-immunoreactive cells were found in subnucleus medialis ventralis. Cells immunoreactive for neuropeptide Y were found in the medial tier of NTS and in the lateral tier, especially in subnucleus lateralis dorsalis intermedius. The majority of enkephalin- and neurotensin-immunoreactive cells were found centrally in subnuclei medialis dorsalis and medialis intermedius. Cells immunoreactive for cholecystokinin were located in subnuclei laterolis dorsalis pars anterior, medialis superficialis, and the caudal NTS. Based on the presence of retrogradely labeled cells, numerous neurons of the medial tier of NTS, but extremely few lateral tier NTS neurons, had projections to the ipsilateral and contralateral DMNX and NTS. The number of retrogradely labeled NTS cells was always greater ipsilateral than contralaterally. The percentages of peptide-immunoreactive NTS cells that projected to the ipsilateral and contralateral DMNX were in the ranges of 29–61% and 10–48%, respectively. The percentages of peptide-immunoreactive NTS cells that projected to the contralateral NTS ranged from 13 to 60%. Peptide-immunoreactive NTS cells that have local and commissural projections to DMNX and NTS may act as interneurons in vagovagal reflex pathways and in the integration of visceral sensory and forebrain input to NTS and DMNX. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Scheduling and cooperative control of electric vehicles' charging at highway service stations

Due to their limited ranges, electric vehicles (EVs) need to be periodically charged during their long-distance travels on a highway. Compared to the fossil-fuel powered vehicles, the charging of a single EV takes much more time (up to 30 mins versus 2 mins). As the number of EVs on highways increases, adequate charging infrastructure needs to be put in place. Nonetheless waiting times for EVs to get charged at service stations could still vary significantly unless an appropriate scheduling coordination is in place and individual EVs make correct decisions about their choice of charging locations. This paper attempts to address both the system-level scheduling problem and the individual control problem, while requiring only distributed information about EVs and their charging at service stations along a highway. Specifically, we first develop a higher-level distributed scheduling algorithm to optimize the operation of the overall charging network. The scheduling algorithm uses only local information of traffic flows measured at the neighboring service stations (nodes), and it aims at adjusting the percentage of the EVs to be charged at individual stations so that all the charging resources along the highway are well (uniformly) utilized and the total waiting time is minimized. Then, a lower level cooperative control law is designed for individual EVs to decide whether or not it should charge its battery when approaching a specific service station by meeting the published scheduling level while taking into account its own battery constraint. Analytical designs are presented and their performance improvement is illustrated using simulation.
Measurement of the stress in oxide scales formed by oxidation of alumina-forming alloys

The alumina scales on a variety of high-temperature alloys are found to fluoresce when illuminated with light having a frequency greater than 18,000 cm−1. The fluorescence exhibits two narrow lines characteristic of chromium-doped alpha-aluminum oxide. The frequency shift of the two lines from the room-temperature, stress-free values of 14,402 cm−1 (1.786 eV) and 14432 cm−1 (1.789 eV) provides a noncontact measure of the stress in the alumina scales using the piezospectroscopic effect. In addition, the broadening of the lines is a measure of the stress gradient in the scale. The physical basis for the fluorescence technique is described together with its implementation for highspatial-resolution (∼2 μm) measurements. As illustration, room-temperature measurements of the residual stress in scales formed at 1100°C on single-crystal NiAl, polycrystalline Ni3Al, two Fe−Ni−Cr−Al alloys, and two Ni−Al base superalloys are presented.
Mutually Positive Regulatory Feedback Loop between Interferons and Estrogen Receptor-α in Mice: Implications for Sex Bias in Autoimmunity

Background Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), an autoimmune disease, predominantly affects women of childbearing age. Moreover, increased serum levels of interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha) are associated with the disease. Although, the female sex hormone estrogen (E2) is implicated in sex bias in SLE through up-regulation of IFN-gamma expression, the molecular mechanisms remain unknown. Here we report that activation of IFN (alpha or gamma)-signaling in immune cells up-regulates expression of estrogen receptor-alpha (ERalpha; encoded by the Esr1 gene) and stimulates expression of target genes. Methodology/principal findings We found that treatment of mouse splenic cells and mouse cell lines with IFN (alpha or gamma) increased steady-state levels of ERalpha mRNA and protein. The increase in the ERalpha mRNA levels was primarily due to the transcriptional mechanisms and it was dependent upon the activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription-1 (STAT1) factor by IFN. Moreover, the IFN-treatment of cells also stimulated transcription of a reporter gene, expression of which was driven by the promoter region of the murine Esr1 gene. Notably, splenic cells from pre-autoimmune lupus-prone (NZB x NZW)F(1) female mice had relatively higher steady-state levels of mRNAs encoded by the IFN and ERalpha-responsive genes as compared to the age-matched males. Conclusions/significance Our observations identify a novel mutually positive regulatory feedback loop between IFNs and ERalpha in immune cells in mice and support the idea that activation of this regulatory loop contributes to sex bias in SLE.
Non-linear AVO Inversion Using Support Vector Machines.

Model/data pairs, computed using known geophysical forward relationships, can be used to train Support Vector Machines to approximate inverse relationships. Given appropriate training data, a Support Vector Machine statistically reproduces the results of non-linear inversion. Inversion of the non-linear Zoeppritz equations is an illposed problem. The results of an inversion depend heavily on the a priori assumptions used to regularize it. If an SVM is trained using data that contains the same assumptions, it will get the same answer. It captures nonlinear relationships as easily as linear ones by employing a kernel function. A naive SVM can usually be trained using fewer calculations of a forward model than are necessary in an equally naive inversion. Since an SVM only needs to be trained once whereas an inversion needs to be repeated on each new data set, procedures which require multiple inversions of the same data become available. The Jackknife method uses multiple inversions to calculate error bars and improve a model estimate.
Embryonic Caffeine Exposure Acts via A1 Adenosine Receptors to Alter Adult Cardiac Function and DNA Methylation in Mice

Evidence indicates that disruption of normal prenatal development influences an individual's risk of developing obesity and cardiovascular disease as an adult. Thus, understanding how in utero exposure to chemical agents leads to increased susceptibility to adult diseases is a critical health related issue. Our aim was to determine whether adenosine A1 receptors (A1ARs) mediate the long-term effects of in utero caffeine exposure on cardiac function and whether these long-term effects are the result of changes in DNA methylation patterns in adult hearts. Pregnant A1AR knockout mice were treated with caffeine (20 mg/kg) or vehicle (0.09% NaCl) i.p. at embryonic day 8.5. This caffeine treatment results in serum levels equivalent to the consumption of 2–4 cups of coffee in humans. After dams gave birth, offspring were examined at 8–10 weeks of age. A1AR+/+ offspring treated in utero with caffeine were 10% heavier than vehicle controls. Using echocardiography, we observed altered cardiac function and morphology in adult mice exposed to caffeine in utero. Caffeine treatment decreased cardiac output by 11% and increased left ventricular wall thickness by 29% during diastole. Using DNA methylation arrays, we identified altered DNA methylation patterns in A1AR+/+ caffeine treated hearts, including 7719 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) within the genome and an overall decrease in DNA methylation of 26%. Analysis of genes associated with DMRs revealed that many are associated with cardiac hypertrophy. These data demonstrate that A1ARs mediate in utero caffeine effects on cardiac function and growth and that caffeine exposure leads to changes in DNA methylation.
The program structure tree: computing control regions in linear time

In this paper, we describe the program structure tree (PST), a hierarchical representation of program structure based on single entry single exit (SESE) regions of the control flow graph. We give a linear-time algorithm for finding SESE regions and for building the PST of arbitrary control flow graphs (including irreducible ones). Next, we establish a connection between SESE regions and control dependence equivalence classes, and show how to use the algorithm to find control regions in linear time. Finally, we discuss some applications of the PST. Many control flow algorithms, such as construction of Static Single Assignment form, can be speeded up by applying the algorithms in a divide-and-conquer style to each SESE region on its own. The PST is also used to speed up data flow analysis by exploiting “sparsity”. Experimental results from the Perfect Club and SPEC89 benchmarks confirm that the PST approach finds and exploits program structure.
Abstract 1379: Impact of tumor blood flow modulation on sensitivity of 9L gliosarcoma xenografts to the bioreductive drug, AQ4N

The bioreductive drug AQ4N is reduced enzymatically under hypoxic conditions to yield AQ4, a cytotoxic metabolite and topoisomerase II inhibitor. This study tests the hypothesis that the two electron reductase DT-diaphorase (NQO1) contributes to AQ4N reduction and that modulation of tumor hypoxia increases AQ4N activity in vivo. A panel of human and rodent tumor cells was assayed for AQ4N sensitivity under normoxic and hypoxic conditions (0.1% O2 for 24 hr), followed by 3 days culture under normoxia without drug. 9L rat gliosarcoma and H460 lung carcinoma, but not 10 other tumor cell lines, exhibited substantially higher (≥ 8 fold) AQ4N sensitivity under hypoxic culture conditions. Investigation of the impact of the DT-diaphorase inhibitors dicumarol and flavone-8-acetic acid on AQ4N cytotoxicity and examination of the cell line dependence of DT-diaphorase protein expression indicated that this enzyme does not contribute to AQ4N cytotoxicity. Next, we investigated whether AQ4N chemosensitivity could be increased by modulating tumor hypoxia in s.c. 9L and H460 tumors implanted in immunodeficient mice. In mice treated with the vasodilator hydralazine, tumor hypoxia was significantly increased in 9L, but not H460 tumors, as determined by pimonidazole staining. Hydralazine also decreased tumor perfusion to a greater extent in 9L tumors than H460 tumors, as judged by uptake of Hoechst 33342. However, hydralazine-induced 9L tumor hypoxia did not increase AQ4N mediated tumor growth delay, in either scid or nude mouse models. Furthermore, combination of AQ4N treatment with inhibition of VEGF receptor-dependent angiogenesis, which increases tumor hypoxia in 9L xenografts, did not augment anti-tumor activity beyond that of VEGF receptor inhibition alone. These findings suggest that the enhancement of AQ4N cytotoxicity in these tumors requires a level of tumor hypoxia that is more extensive or prolonged that can be achieved using these vasodilators and anti-angiogenic agents. Supported in part by NIH grant CA49248 (to D.J.W.). Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1379.
Large amplitude modulation of heat transfer from a circular cylinder

On developpe un code de calcul base sur la methode des elements finis de Galerkin pour resoudre le probleme de transfert de chaleur instationnaire bidimensionnel
The interagency consortium for desalination and membrane separation research

Abstract The Interagency Consortium has made significant progress since the concept was first envisioned. It has provided a forum for government agencies to meet and share information on technical programs and research needs. It has also increased the transfer of information and data between agencies. The Consortium has proven to be a worthwhile venture to establish joint programs and cooperative efforts. As the group continues to meet and formulate its strategy for the future, significant opportunities exist to build upon the foundation that has been laid.
Leadership and Loyalties: the Imams of Nineteenth Century Colonial Cape Town, South Africa

Bien que les imams de la colonie sud-africaine du Cap aient complete leur itineraire religieux d'un pelerinage a La Mecque, ils ont d'abord voulu creer un islam creole dans la region. Leurs ambitions politiques etaient modestes, mais ils ont recherche un statut notable dans la ville et dans la communaute musulmane. Les rituels publics ainsi que la vie sociale des musulmans sont des champs de pouvoir ou les imams ont articule leur autorite. Les imams du Cap ont voulu elaborer une religion destinee a une population qui n'etait pas la population blanche coloniale ni composee d'indigenes Khoisan
INTERPERSONAL ATTRACTION IN A ROLE-PLAYED INTERACTION

Summary.-To look at the usefulness of a neutral task in studying 2-person interactions, to ascertain some behavioral correlates of experimentally manipulated attraction, to investigate the generality of the similarity-acttaction hypothesis, and to examine the behavioral relevance of scores on a commonly used paperand-pencil attraction scale, Ss interacted wirh confederates posing as Ss. Each S was given the impression that C had similar or dissimilar attitudes and twice S performed an incomplete sentences task administered by C. On one set of trials, S was instructed to act as if he liked C, and on the other set as if he did not. Measured behaviors were eye contact, interview length, number of words used, smiles, and both S's and C's response latencies. In the high-attraction roleplaying condition, more smiles and a higher percentage of eye contact occurred than in the low-attraction role-playing condition. But no differences in the other behaviors were noted, only very mild support was obtained for the similarity-attraction hypothesis, and none of the measures were related to scores on the paperand-pencil index of interpersonal attraction.
Abnormal glutamate metabolism in an adult-onset degenerative neurological disorder

In patients with recessive, adult-onset olivopontocerebellar degeneration associated with a partial deficiency of glutamate dehydrogenase, the concentration of glutamate in plasma was significantly higher than that in controls. Plasma alpha-ketoglutarate was significantly lower. Oral administration of monosodium glutamate resulted in excessive accumulation of this amino acid in plasma and lack of increase in the ratio of plasma lactate to pyruvate in the glutamate dehydrogenase-deficient patients. Decreased glutamate catabolism may result in an excess of glutamate in the nervous system and cause neuronal degeneration.
The ALS-associated proteins FUS and TDP-43 function together to affect Drosophila locomotion and life span

The fatal adult motor neuron disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) shares some clinical and pathological overlap with frontotemporal dementia (FTD), an early-onset neurodegenerative disorder. The RNA/DNA-binding proteins fused in sarcoma (FUS; also known as TLS) and TAR DNA binding protein-43 (TDP-43) have recently been shown to be genetically and pathologically associated with familial forms of ALS and FTD. It is currently unknown whether perturbation of these proteins results in disease through mechanisms that are independent of normal protein function or via the pathophysiological disruption of molecular processes in which they are both critical. Here, we report that Drosophila mutants in which the homolog of FUS is disrupted exhibit decreased adult viability, diminished locomotor speed, and reduced life span compared with controls. These phenotypes were fully rescued by wild-type human FUS, but not ALS-associated mutant FUS proteins. A mutant of the Drosophila homolog of TDP-43 had similar, but more severe, deficits. Through cross-rescue analysis, we demonstrated that FUS acted together with and downstream of TDP-43 in a common genetic pathway in neurons. Furthermore, we found that these proteins associated with each other in an RNA-dependent complex. Our results establish that FUS and TDP-43 function together in vivo and suggest that molecular pathways requiring the combined activities of both of these proteins may be disrupted in ALS and FTD.
Insulin resistance in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with insulin resistance. There are also defects in pancreatic β-cell function in affected women. These abnormalities are heritable. There are post-binding defects in insulin receptor signaling, with selective resistance to insulin's metabolic actions and constitutively activated mitogenic signaling in skeletal muscle. Intrinsic and environmental abnormalities interact to produce peripheral insulin resistance in PCOS. A susceptibility gene region for PCOS is located on chromosome 19p13.2. The susceptibility allele is also associated with a metabolic phenotype.
Aircraft technology and network structure in short-haul air transportation

Abstract Aircraft technology plays a vital role in the evolution of air transportation networks. The technical and economic characteristics combine to shape the network and the air service pattern on it. This relationship between technology and network structure is investigated for the case of short-haul, low-density air transportation. The characteristics of an actual short-haul region, the Southeastern United States, are used in a quasi-empirical study. It is found that smaller aircraft are always preferable to larger ones, provided such aircraft can be developed with operating economics that would permit comparable break-even load factors. The nature of the demand for air transportation is such that maintaining low break-even load factors need not only be achieved through technological changes in aircraft characteristics, but also charging higher fares in short-haul, low-density air transportation. The relationship between aircraft technology and network structure can be characterized; but we are still quite far from being able to make generalizations about it.
Aversive stimuli and loss in the mesocorticolimbic dopamine system

There is mounting evidence that the mesolimbic dopamine system carries valuation signals not only for appetitive or gain-related stimuli, with which it is traditionally associated, but also for aversive and loss-related stimuli. Cellular-level studies demonstrate that the neuronal architecture to support aversive stimuli encoding in this system does exist. Both cellular-level and human neuroimaging research suggest the co-existence of appetitive and aversive prediction-error signals within the mesocorticolimbic system. These findings shift the view of the mesocorticolimbic system as a singular pathway for reward to a system with multiple signals across a wide range of domains that drive value-based decision making.
Cost-effectiveness of radiofrequency catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation.

Objectives We sought to compare the cost-effectiveness of left atrial catheter ablation (LACA), amiodarone, and rate control therapy in the management of atrial fibrillation (AF). Background Left atrial catheter ablation has been performed to eliminate AF, but its cost-effectiveness is unknown. Methods We developed a decision-analytic model to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of LACA in 55- and 65-year-old cohorts with AF at moderate and low stroke risk. Costs, health utilities, and transition probabilities were derived from published literature and Medicare data. We performed primary threshold analyses to determine the minimum level of LACA efficacy and stroke risk reduction needed to make LACA cost-effective at $50,000 and $100,000 per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) thresholds. Results In 65-year-old subjects with AF at moderate stroke risk, relative reduction in stroke risk with an 80% LACA efficacy rate for sinus rhythm restoration would need to be ≥42% and ≥11% to yield incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) Conclusions The use of LACA may be cost-effective in patients with AF at moderate risk for stroke, but it is not cost-effective in low-risk patients. Our threshold analyses may provide a framework for the design of future clinical trials by providing effect size estimates for LACA efficacy needed.
Differential roles for the inositol phosphatase SHIP in the regulation of macrophages and lymphocytes.

The SH2 domain-containing inositol 5′-phosphatase (SHIP) negatively regulates antigen, cytokine, and Fc receptor signaling pathways in immune cells. Our knowledge of the function of SHIP largely derives from in vitro studies that utilized SHIP-deficient cell lines and immune cells isolated from SHIP null mice. To avoid the pleiotropic effects observed in mice with germline deletion of SHIP, we have used the Cre-lox system to generate SHIP conditional knockout mice with deletion in specific immune cell populations. In this review we summarize our observations from mice with deletion of SHIP in lymphocyte and macrophage lineages and contrast them with earlier data gathered by the analysis of SHIP null mice.
Calcium and polyphosphoinositide control of cytoskeletal dynamics.

Abstract Dynamic alterations in the structure of the neuronal cytoskeleton are necessary for axonal growth and guidance during development and may also be involved in modulation of synaptic function. Recent evidence suggests that the structural and mechanochemical properties of the cytoskeletal protein, actin, are critical to our understanding of neuronal motility and cytoskeletal plasticity. Regulatory proteins that control actin polymerization, network organization and actin filament-membrane interactions have been described in non-neuronal and neuronal cell types. Many of these proteins are activated by increases in intracellular calcium. Recent results also suggest that receptor-mediated changes in polyphosphoinositide turnover may be involved in the control of cell structure. Interestingly, two major actin-binding proteins found in brain, gelsolin and profilin, specifically interact with phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate, and may themselves play a role in regulating phosphoinositide turnover.
Orobanche minor Germination With Strigol and GR Compounds

Summary The efficacy of strigol, and strigol analogs GR-7 and GR-45 as germination stimulants of clover broomrape ( Orobanche minor ) was determined. Highest germination was obtained with strigol at 10 −10 g and GR-45 at 10 −6 g. Treatment with GR-7 was not significantly different from the water controls (P = 0.001).
Network Based Information Sharing Between Emergency Operations Center

To respond effectively to major incidents, such as terrorist acts and natural disasters, emergency operation centers (EOC) must rely on collaboration and information sharing between multiple agencies and jurisdictions. However, local jurisdictions and states throughout the Nation find it difficult to share data and implement processes that span the different systems and organizations responsible for unified incident response. For example, adjacent counties often lack the means of sharing a common situational view of an evolving incident and their responses. Emerging internet technologies are key enablers for improving the timeliness and effectiveness of this unified response. This paper describes an ongoing initiative sponsored by the DHS, Science & Technology Directorate as part of the Regional Technology Initiative (RTT) that is employing EDXL, XMPP, Web Services and other advanced information technologies to interconnect cooperating EOCs in real time to improve their situational awareness and assist in coordinating their unified incident response. The paper discusses the architecture and technology incorporated in the framework, shows details of a demonstration of the system in the Seattle region, and discusses the significant advantages identified by the participating jurisdictions to date.
Excitonic radius in the cavity polariton in the regime of very strong coupling

It is shown that the excitonic cavity polariton undergoes dramatic changes when the vacuum Rabi splitting energy becomes comparable to the exciton binding energy. The radius of the exciton becomes a strong function of the detuning, and, in screened systems, the coupling with the photons can preclude the Mott transition.
Low temperature NMR studies of polycrystalline nitroxide radicals

Abstract We have taken proton NMR spectra of a series of polycrystalline nitroxide radicals in the temperature interval from 2 K to 40 K. The lines in the spectra of thesse radicals are shifted by both the electron-nucleus dipolar and Fermi contact interactions. The shifts become large compared to the linewidth at low temperature and well resolved spectra are observed. The shifts vary with the magnetic susceptibility of the sample and our study of the temperature dependence of the shifts allowed us to measure the temperature dependence of the susceptibility. Dipolar shifts for these radicals were calculated from crystal structure data and Fermi contact terms were evaluated by spectral simulation. The protons in these molecules are held in rigid conformations with respect to the nitroxide group and this study allowed us to determine the conformational dependence of the hyperfine coupling constants. The experimental results are in good qualitative agreement with previous theoretical predictions.
Dry-Matter Yield, Protein Synthesis, Starch, and Fiber Content of Barley and Wheat Plants Under Two Irrigation Regimes

Abstract Despite the voluminous literature available on the influence of stress on plant growth and development, the issue is still controversial. The purpose of the present investigation was to gather further information on the effects of water deficit on two main agronomic crops, barley and wheat, in a region with a relatively insufficient research history. Dry-matter yield of straw and grains, protein content, starch, fiber, and ash percentage of barley (Hordeum vulgareL., cv. ‘Walfajr’) and wheat (Triticum aestivumL., cv. ‘Karaj I’) under two irrigation regimes were studied at the College of Agriculture, University of Tehran Experimental Farm, located in the city of Karaj, Iran. The treatments consisted of two irrigation regimes, at 7 d intervals (control) and 14 d intervals (stress). Total dry-matter yields of straw and grains of both species decreased under stress. Nevertheless, the fluctuation in dry-matter percentage (DM%) of both plants and the plant parts was not significant (ranging from 91.3–9...
Brachial Plexus Birth Palsy: Multimodality Imaging of Spine and Shoulder Abnormalities in Children

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive overview of the imaging of brachial plexus palsy, including both pathologic conditions of the spine and shoulder and clinical background and management. CONCLUSION. Brachial plexus birth palsy can result in permanent disability and limb deformity. Identifying the lesion type and associated sequelae is important in clinical management aimed at optimizing outcome. The imaging algorithms used are guided by clinical presentation and are designed to assess the extent of injury to guide possible surgical intervention.
SERUM BILE ACIDS IN PREMATURE INFANTS WITH TPN- ASSOCIATED LIVER DISEASE

The etiology of the cholestasis and/or hepatocellular damage observed in some children on total parenteral nutrition (TPN) remains undefined. Although amino acid imbalance in the infused solution has been implicated, we have not demonstrated any consistent correlation between serum amino acids and liver disease. However, because of the unresolved question of the role of bile acids in the pathogenesis of the condition, we studied bile acids in 8 premature infants on a Freamine II-Intralipid-based solution and were able to separate them into two groups. Four developed hepatomegaly, marked elevations in serum enzymes (SGPT, LAP, GGT), and hyperbilirubinemia. Liver biopsies were obtained from 3 of the 4, and demonstrated canalicular cholestasis. The other 4 demonstrated less pronounced increases in serum enzymes and bilirubin, no clinically demonstrable hepatomegaly, and were not biopsied. Quantitative serum bile acids determined by TLC in the two groups demonstrated a 50% increase in serum levels of unconjugated, secondary bile acids (CDC, DOC, LiC) in the more severely affected group. Although this proves no cause-effect relationship between TPN-associated liver disease and serum bile acids, it documents a distinct difference in the serum bile acid concentrations of those infants with frank liver disease and others with only biochemical changes.
Transformation of human epidermal cells by transfection with plasmid containing simian virus 40 DNA linked to a neomycin gene in a defined medium

A human epidermal cell culture was transformed by transfection with a recombinant plasmid containing simian virus 40 DNA with a deletion at the origin and an antibiotic (neomycin or G418) marker. A calcium phosphate-mediated DNA transfection method was optimized for introducing exogenous DNA into cells maintained in a fully defined medium. The transformed cells were propagated for more than 200 population doublings and did not appear to go through a "crisis" period. The growth characteristics of the transformed cells were similar to those of untransformed cells. Major keratins synthesized in the transformed cells were similar to those found in normal epidermal cells. Transformed cells initially transfected with the recombinant plasmid could be propagated for more than 30 passages. Actively growing cells could then be repeatedly selected from cell populations based upon their neomycin (G418)-resistant phenotype for at least another 30 passages. Simian virus 40 T-antigen and extrachromosomal DNA containing plasmid- and SV40-specific DNA sequences were detected in the transformed cells. Because of their nononcogenic phenotype and defined growth requirements, the transformed cells provide a model for examining structural changes during cell proliferation and differentiation, and for exploring the multistage carcinogenesis of human epithelial cells.
Interaction of the Solar Wind with Comet Hale-Bopp: Global Interaction and Microphysics

Comet Hale-Bopp, discovered at a heliocentric distance of ~7.2 AU, promises to become a striking spectacle as it approaches perihelion (~0.914 AU) on 1997 April 1. In this paper we describe the changes of the global interaction of the comet with the solar wind and some of the associated microphysics as the comet follows its trajectory from 4 AU to 1 AU from the Sun. Hale-Bopp's production rate of H2O at 4 AU is comparable to that of Halley's comet at the latter's encounter distance of ~0.9 AU. It is shown that while Hale-Bopp's H2O production rate may increase by 3.5-6 orders of magnitude in this range of heliocentric distances, depending on the assumed model of nuclear rotation, the dimensions of the region over which the solar wind is strongly perturbed as measured by the cometocentric distance of the cometary bow shock changes by only 1 order of magnitude. This effect primarily arises from the increasingly strong depletion effect of neutral particles ("neutrals") as the comet approaches the Sun. Because of this effect, the size of the shock at 1 AU is less than its size at 2 AU, despite the larger production rate of H2O at the smaller distance. Also, although this shock is always produced by mass loading of the inflowing solar wind by heavy cometary ions, its nature changes from "soft" or typically "comet-like" at large heliocentric distances to "hard" or "planet-like" near perihelion. This neutral depletion effect has important consequences for the microphysics as well. Strong Alfven wave turbulence, which served as a distant precursor of the bow shock of Halley's comet, will not be generated by Hale-Bopp near perihelion. Also, downstream of the shock, the excitation of MHD waves, which led to the isotropization of "pick-up" cometary ions in the solar-wind frame near Halley's comet, will be suppressed, leading to a highly anisotropic (ring-type) distribution near Hale-Bopp. It is also shown that electron energization resulting from lower hybrid turbulence leads to observable X-ray emission, which will become progressively harder as the comet approaches the Sun. Finally, it is argued that the Townsend criterion for a discharge produced by energetic electrons is likely to be more easily fulfilled by comet Hale-Bopp at heliocentric distances of ≤3 AU than by Halley's comet at encounter, thereby leading to anomalous ionization of the neutral gas outflow by the so-called Alfven or critical velocity ionization mechanism.
The coefficient of variation, stochastic dominance and inequality: A new interpretation

Abstract There exists a close tie between the coefficient of variation (CV) and a recently proposed inequality ranking criterion. We show that 1 2 (CV)2 is the area between the second-degree normalized stochastic curve and the line of perfect equality.
Alkanes and Terpenes in Wood and Leaves of Pinus jeffreyi and P. sabiniana

The wood oils of Pinus jeffreyi and P. sabiniana contain considerable amounts of heptane (76.6%, 92%), on a monoterpene basis. However, when entire wood extractables is considered, the amounts drop considerably (3.4%, 36.8%) with the major portion of the wood oils being diterpene acids. The leaf oil of P. jeffreyi is dominated by α-pinene (20.9%) and, a diterpene, thunbergol (9.2%) with moderate amounts of β-pinene, δ-3-carene, limonene, β-phellandrene, (Z)-β-ocimene, (E)-caryophyllene, δ-cadinene and cembrene. The leaf oil of P. sabiniana is dominated by α-pinene (39.1%) with moderate amounts of β-pinene, myrcene, limonene, β-phellandrene, (Z)-β-ocimene, methyl chavicol, decanal and thunbergol.
Myocardial viability: magnetic resonance assessment of functional reserve and tissue characterization.

The determination of myocardial viability is crucial in patients with left ventricular dysfunction resulting from acute myocardial ischemia or chronic coronary artery disease. Viable myocardium will most likely benefit from revascularization procedures. However, the revascularization of scar tissue will not lead to improvement of ventricular function and furthermore bears unnecessary risk for the patient. Currently, echocardiographic and radionuclide techniques are the most established methods for the assessment of presence and extent of viable myocardium. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) also provides multiple approaches for determining viability of acute ischemically injured and hibernating myocardium. MRI can assess contractile reserve in a manner similar to echocardiography. Additionally, contrast-enhanced MRI can characterize myocardial ischemic injury, including the ability to discriminate viable from nonviable zones. Several new contrast media have been introduced for this purpose. This review addr...