cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Accessing a transporter structure.

Information processing in the brain requires the neurotransmitter glutamate. Hence the importance of today's publication of the structure of an archaeal relative of the transporter controlling glutamate's levels.
Conflicting forces of warfarin and matrix gla protein in the artery wall.

In this journal, 14 years ago, Price et al1 reported that 2 weeks of warfarin treatment in young rats caused massive focal calcification of the artery media. It had been known for years that warfarin could induce mineral deposition in the arteries of rodents,2 and the phenomenon was so robust that warfarin was often used as an experimental model for vascular calcification, but the mechanism was unknown. See accompanying article on page 237 In this issue, Tantisattamo et al3 provide evidence from a large sample of patients that the prevalence of vascular calcification detected by mammography is greater in women taking warfarin and that it seems to increase with duration of warfarin therapy. If one accepts the fair assumption that calcification of arteries in breast tissue reflects that occurring in other branches of the vascular tree, probably a fair extrapolation, this finding has enormous translational effect, given the morbidity and mortality associated with vascular calcification and given the millions of patients who use warfarin.4 Their work ties together a series of previous laboratory observations. Twenty-one years ago, calcified human carotid …
Histochemical studies on cell death and histolysis during regeneration. I. Distribution of acid phosphomonoesterase activity in the normal, the regenerating and the resorbing forelimb of the larval spotted salamander, Amblystoma maculatum.

Histochemical methods, especially azo dye methods for detecting acid phosphomonoesterase activity were applied to normal, regenerating and denervated, amputated limbs from larval Amblystoma maculatum. Efforts were made to control inactivation of enzymic activity and diffusion of both enzyme and reaction product. “Base-line” values for enzymic activity were determined for normal limbs. Activity appeared most intense in macrophages, less intense in epidermis and cartilage matrix. Some activity was detected in Schwann cells, peri- and endoneurium and muscle fibers form normal limbs. Enzymic activity in regenerating limbs was strongest within macrophages which appeared in increased numbers especially in early stages. Wound tissue showed little increased activity. As the blastema formed, increased enzymic activity was detected in epidermis and within increased numbers of macrophages. Chondrocytes showed increased activity especially during cartilage matrix deposition. Amputated, denervated limbs showed large numbers of active macrophages beneath and within epidermis and along muscle. As regression commenced, areas of cartilage matrix breakdown showed increased enzymic activity but, in general, greatest activity was in macrophages. The various possible roles of acid phosphomonoesterase activity in the specific biological situations dealt with are considered in light of such observations.
Tailor-made planning: Making planning fit the firm☆

Abstract This selective and limited application of the contingency approach to planning is intended to show that the process is a highly flexible set of activities which can be adapted and tailored to the organization's requirements. At each stage of the planning process the manager has a set of choices which enable him to make the best possible fit between the process and the organization. He is not a passive recipient of a pre-ordained sequence of rigidly invariable activities. He is in the position of being able to select specific solutions to specific problems so that the planning process and structure form the best possible fit for the organization in its environment.
Sensing Mechanism of a Carbon Monoxide Sensor Based on Anatase Titania

This paper reports results on a TiO{sub 2} (anatase)-based CO sensor and proposes a possible surface-controlled sensing mechanism. The complex plane analysis of the ac electrical data provides quantitative evidence supporting the mechanism. The grain-boundary capacitance and conductance, extracted from the impedance plane, were observed to increase with the CO concentration. This effect is attributed to a change in the depletion region thickness and barrier height at the TiO{sub 2} intergranular contact. The analysis of the electrical data combined with x-ray diffraction and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy observations support the proposed sensing mechanism involving CO adsorption and ionization on the titania surface, and not an oxidation-reduction type reaction as observed in most oxide-based sensors.
INVESTIGATION OF EXTENDED OVER-WATER RANGES OF LOW-SITED RADAR

Abstract An investigation of the extension of radar ranges coincidental with the existence of surface-based superrefractive layers is discussed using data obtained during the operation of a low-sited overwater radar link. Instrument readings were found to agree substantially with results predicted by previously published methods. Individual cases are treated to show the interrelationship with the increase in signal strength and the development of the super-refractive layer as a result of air-mass movement and modification.
Agency and Efficacy in Interpersonal Communication: Particularity as Once-Occurrence and Noninterchangeability

Interpersonal communication is sometimes defined quantitatively (i.e., discourse between 2 and 4 interactants), though it may be defined qualitatively: Unlike mass-mediated communication, which is characterized by interactant anonymity and interchangeability, interpersonal communication hinges on the once-occurrence and noninterchangeability—the existential particularity—of interactants and interaction. Accordingly, this article advances a communicological orientation toward interpersonal communication by focusing on those aspects and dimensions of communication that critically depend on the once-occurrence and noninterchangeability of interactants and their interaction. I begin by exploring some main obstacles to recognizing particularity. Next, I examine how agency and efficacy in interpersonal communication amount to reckoning with once-occurrence and noninterchangeability. Finally, I illustrate the vitality of particularity in two domains of interpersonal communication: face-to-face conversation and f...
The dog in prehistoric and early historic britain

Abstract The development and changes in size, conformation and skull shape of the dog in Britain from the Mesolithic to the end of the eleventh century AD are described and factors are derived for the estimation of shoulder height from long bone lengths. The Mesolithic dog is represented by not more than four animals of about 60 cm shoulder height. In both the Neolithic and the Bronze Age the available evidence indicates a single population showing little variation. The observed range of estimated shoulder height was the same, 43–62 cm, but the mean values for each long bone length were a little higher in the later period. In the Iron Age there is again a single population but the larger dogs in it were either more common or better represented. An overall reduction in height is apparent, the range being 29–58 cm. The cardinal feature of the Romano-British dog is variability, apparent in height, build and skull shape. The height range is 23–72 cm. There were definitely two, possibly three, distinct populations and what were almost certainly house dogs were seen for the first time. The mean size of the dog in Anglo-Saxon times was greater than that in any previous period and there is evidence for two distinct populations. The range in shoulder height is 23–71 cm but overall the variation is reduced. Evidence is presented that the dog was probably used as a food animal.
Solubility behavior of alkali aluminosilicate components in aqueous fluids and silicate melts at high pressure and temperature

Abstract The solubility behavior of K2O, Na2O, Al2O3, and SiO2 in silicate-saturated aqueous fluid and coexisting H2O-saturated silicate melts in the systems K2O-Al2O3-SiO2-H2O and Na2O-Al2O3-SiO2-H2O has been examined in the 1- to 2-GPa pressure range at 1100°C. Glasses of Na- and K-tetrasilicate compositions with 0, 3, and 6 mol% Al2O3 were used as starting materials. In both systems, the oxides dissolve incongruently in aqueous fluid and silicate melt. When recalculated to an anhydrous basis, the aqueous fluids are enriched in alkalis and depleted in silica and alumina relative to their proportions in the starting materials. The extent of incongruency is more pronounced in the Na2O-Al2O3-SiO2-H2O system than in the K2O-Al2O3-SiO2-H2O system. The partition coefficients of the oxides, Doxidefluid/melt, are linear and positive functions of the oxide concentration in the fluid for each composition. There is a slight dependence of the partition coefficients on bulk composition. No effect of pressure could be discerned. For alkali metals, the fluid/melt partition coefficients range from 0.06 to 0.8. For Al2O3 this range is 0.01 to 0.2, and for SiO2, it is 0.01 to 0.32. For all compositions, DK2Ofluid/melt∼DNa2Ofluid/melt>DSiO2fluid/melt>DAl2O3fluid/melt for the same oxide concentration in the fluid. DK2Ofluid/melt, DNa2Ofluid/melt, and DSiO2fluid/melt correlate negatively with the Al2O3 content of the systems. This correlation is consistent with a solubility model of alkalis that involve associated KOH°, NaOH°, silicate, and aluminate complexes.
DHVA oscillations in the correlation energy of a two-dimensional quantum plasma

Abstract We evaluate DHVA oscillatory effects in the correlation energy of a 2D quantum plasma for low/intermediate magnetic field strengths in the degenerate case. The DHVA part of the lowest ring diagram energy is obtained in a closed form in terms of an elementary periodic linear sawtooth function of EF/ h ωc.
Managing Global Capitalism

Over the last year and a half there has been a growing concern about the ability of the world’s international financial system and its associated institutions, such as the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, to provide the appropriate framework for the management of global capitalism. This paper is a transcript of the first David Finch Lecture at the University Melbourne, presented by the well-known Harvard economist, Jeffrey Sachs. The lecture was delivered on 24 October 1997, at an early stage of what was first called the Asian financial crisis, and what is now being described by some as a world financial crisis. In this lecture, Sachs outlines how the world became a world of global capitalism and some of the challenges that poses, especially for institutions such as the international Monetary Fund and the World Bank. Given the nature and extent of the international financial developments that have occurred since the lecture was delivered, it is remarkable how apposite the contents remain over a year later.
Differential regulation of 5-HT1A receptor-G protein interactions in brain following chronic antidepressant administration.

Changes in 5-HT1A receptor function or sensitivity following chronic antidepressant treatment may involve changes in receptor-G protein interaction. We have examined the effect of chronic administration of the SSRI fluoxetine or the tricyclic antidepressant amitriptyline on 5-HT1A receptor-stimulated [35S]GTPγS binding in serotonergic cell body areas, and cortical and limbic structures using quantitative autoradiography. Treatment of rats with fluoxetine, but not amitriptyline, resulted in an attenuation of 5-HT1A receptor-stimulated [35S]GTPγS binding in the dorsal and median raphe nuclei. The binding of the antagonist radioligand [3H]MPPF to 5-HT1A receptor sites was not altered, suggesting that the observed changes in 5-HT1A receptor-stimulated [35S]GTPγS binding were not due to changes in receptor number. Thus, the desensitization of somatodendritic 5-HT1A autoreceptors in the dorsal and median raphe following chronic SSRI treatment appears to be due to a reduced capacity of the 5-HT1A receptor to activate G protein. By contrast, no significant change in postsynaptic 5-HT1A receptor-stimulated [35S]GTPγS binding was observed in any of the forebrain areas examined following chronic antidepressant treatment. Thus, changes in postsynaptic 5-HT1A receptor-mediated responses reported to follow chronic SSRI or tricyclic antidepressant administration most likely occur distal to receptor-G protein interaction, perhaps at the level of effector, or involving changes in neuronal function at the system or circuit level.
Establishing spatial trends in water chemistry and stable isotopes (δ15N and δ13C) in the Elwha River prior to dam removal and salmon recolonization

Two high-head dams on the Elwha River in Washington State (USA) have changed the migratory patterns of resident and anadromous fish, limiting Pacific salmon to the lower 7.9 km of a river that historically supported large Pacific salmon runs. To document the effects of the dams prior to their removal, we measured carbon and nitrogen stable isotope ratios of primary producers, benthic macroinvertebrates, and fish, and water chemistry above, between and below the dams. We found that δ15N was significantly higher in fish, stoneflies, black flies, periphyton and macroalgae where salmon still have access. Fish and chloroperlid stoneflies were enriched in δ13C, but the values were more variable than in δ15N. For some taxa, there were also differences between the two river sections that lack salmon, suggesting that factors other than marine-derived nutrients are structuring longitudinal isotopic profiles. Consistent with trophic theory, macroalgae had the lowest δ15N, followed by periphyton, macroinvertebrates and fish, with a range of 6.9, 6.2 and 7.7‰ below, between, and above the dams, respectively. Water chemistry analyses confirmed earlier reports that the river is oligotrophic. Phosphorous levels in the Elwha were lower than those found in other regional rivers, with significant differences among regulated, unregulated and reference sections. The removal of these dams, among the largest of such projects ever attempted, is expected to facilitate the return of salmon and their marine-derived nutrients (MDN) throughout the watershed, possibly altering the food web structure, nutrient levels and stable isotope values that we documented. Published in 2010 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Explaining the African food riots of 2007–2008: An empirical analysis

Abstract A sharp escalation in worldwide commodity prices precipitated the global food crisis of 2007–2008, affecting the majority of the world’s poor, causing protests in developing countries and presenting policymakers with the challenge of simultaneously addressing hunger, poverty, and political instability. These food price shocks fomented violent civil responses in some countries, but not others, offering a unique opportunity to assess the factors that contributed to these disturbances. We explore this question empirically with specific reference to Africa, where “food riots” occurred in at least 14 countries. By examining the socio-economic and political conditions facing African countries, we attempt to answer why only some countries in Africa witnessed food riots in late 2007 and early 2008, while others did not. Our empirical analysis demonstrates that higher levels of poverty (as proxied by the Human Poverty Index), restricted access to and availability of food, urbanization, a coastal location, more oppressive regimes and stronger civil societies are associated with a higher likelihood of riots occurring. We also examine three country cases (Egypt, Mozambique, Niger) which represent different circumstances and responses to the food crisis, and identify specific factors that were associated with food protests in each case. Our study highlights the importance of pro-poor policies and investments and improved governance in addressing the problems facing the poor and in helping secure political stability. As the frequency and variability of natural disasters increase in response to climate change, such policies can serve to protect the poor from the debilitating consequences of the resulting shocks.
Growth Characteristics of Pseudomonas Fluorescens on Conalbumin and Lysozyme Substrates

Abstract INTRODUCTION INCREASED emphasis has recently been placed on the need for additional information concerning the chemical and microbiological properties of the egg white proteins. The need for this information has been accentuated by the rapid development of new and improved methods of egg processing and pasteurization. Information concerning the bacterial growth support characteristics of individual egg white proteins is negligible. Feeney and Nagy (1952) reported that conalbumin inhibits the growth of microorganisms by forming a remarkably stable complex with iron, thus rendering the system deficient in available iron. Garibaldi (1960) stated that the inhibition of bacterial growth in egg white can be completely reversed by saturating the conalbumin with iron. Garibaldi and Bayne (1960) concluded that contamination of shell eggs with the essential trace nutrient, iron, has a profound effect in increasing both the rate and extent of bacterial spoilage of eggs experimentally infected with P. ovalis and P. fluorescens…
B(m,n) = G(m)G(n)/G(m + n) and volume of an n‐dimensional sphere

In this paper we propose a simple proof for a well‐known identity. We use the gamma function and its properties to compute the volume of an n‐dimensional sphere.
Endogenous opioids and hypogonadism in human obesity.

Massively obese males often show symptoms of hypogonadism, but the mechanism for this is unclear. Increased endogenous opioid inhibition of the hypothalamic GnRH pulse generator resulting in insufficient stimulation of the pituitary gonadotroph has been proposed as a possible mechanism. If this hypothesis is correct, obese males should be more sensitive to the LH-elevating effects of the opiate antagonist, naloxone, than men of normal weight and gonadal status. This study investigated the etiology of obesity-related hypogonadism by examining luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) responses to gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and to infusions of saline or naloxone. Subjects were five obese (201 ± 14% IBW) and five normal weight (control) (97 ± 4% IBW) males. Before treatment, obese males had significantly (p < 0.05) lower testosterone levels than control subjects (307 ± 72 vs. 597 ± 49 ng/dl), whereas estradiol, androstenedione, and dehydroepiandrosterone levels were not different between the two groups. Both groups showed equivalent elevations in LH (fourfold to sixfold) in response to GnRH stimulation, but obese patients had significantly lower basal (p < 0.05) and GnRH-stimulated (p < 0.01) FSH levels. Infusions of naloxone (but not saline) led to significant (p < 0.01) increases in LH above preinfusion baseline levels (20.5 ± 2.8% in obese and 28.6 ± 6.3% in controls). In control subjects, integrated LH levels during naloxone infusion were not significantly elevated above those found during saline infusion, while obese subjects exhibited a 43% augmentation of integrated LH (31.0 ± 5.3 ng/ml during naloxone vs. 21.7 ± 1.8 ng/ml during saline, p < 0.05). Furthermore, analysis of LH pulsatility by cycle detection analysis demonstrated a 51% increase in LH pulse frequency of obese subjects from 0.45 ± 0.04 pulses/h during saline infusion to 0.68 ± 0.13 pulses/h during naloxone treatment (p < 0.05). These data suggest that the hypogonadism found in massively obese males may be due, in part, to increased tonic inhibition, mediated via endogenous opioids, of the hypothalamic GnRH pulse generator.
Modeling Urban Growth at a Micro Level: A Panel Data Analysis

In this paper, the historical trend of urban growth and the associated drivers were examined through econometric analysis for the rapidly growing Grafton area in the State of Wisconsin. Specifically, panel data analysis was carried out to examine the drivers of urban growth such as demographic factors, location of jobs, travel time, housing types, property values, etc. Results reveal that panel data analysis, particularly the random effects model, was successful in analyzing the drivers of urban growth at the census block group level. This study found that population, local jobs, household income, and house price were positively associated with urban growth. The study also found that urban growth in the study area is not decided by the access to the nearest central city, but other factors, such as the rural atmosphere of the region, local jobs, and emerging centers of employment opportunities, have significant influences on urban development.
Effect of Shivering on Brain Tissue Oxygenation During Induced Normothermia in Patients With Severe Brain Injury

We analyzed the impact of shivering on brain tissue oxygenation (PbtO2) during induced normothermia in patients with severe brain injury. We studied patients with severe brain injury who developed shivering during induced normothermia. Induced normothermia was applied to treat refractory fever (body temperature [BT] ≥38.3°C, refractory to conventional treatment) using a surface cooling device with computerized adjustment of patient BT target to 37 ± 0.5°C. PbtO2, intracranial pressure, mean arterial pressure, cerebral perfusion pressure, and BT were monitored continuously. Circulating water temperature of the device system was measured to assess the intensity of cooling. Fifteen patients (10 with severe traumatic brain injury, 5 with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage) were treated with induced normothermia for an average of 5 ± 2 days. Shivering caused a significant decrease in PbtO2 levels both in SAH and TBI patients. Compared to baseline, shivering was associated with an overall reduction of PbtO2 from 34.1 ± 7.3 to 24.4 ± 5.5 mmHg (P < 0.001). A significant correlation was found between the magnitude of shivering-associated decrease of PbtO2 (ΔPbtO2) and circulating water temperature (R = 0.82, P < 0.001). In patients with severe brain injury treated with induced normothermia, shivering was associated with a significant decrease of PbtO2, which correlated with the intensity of cooling. Monitoring of therapeutic cooling with computerized thermoregulatory systems may help prevent shivering and optimize the management of induced normothermia. The clinical significance of shivering-induced decrease in brain tissue oxygenation remains to be determined.
Carcinoma of the penis. Experience with 153 cases.

Abstract The clinical and morphologic features of 153 cases of squamous-cell carcinoma of the penis were reviewed. A delay in diagnosis of more than three months occurred in 128 patients (84 per cent) which suggests the need for earlier diagnosis of this condition. Treatment was predominately surgical for the 125 cases in which the disease was clinically confined to the penis (Stage I). Ilioinguinal lymphadenectomies were omitted until clinical suspicion of regional lymphatic spread had occurred. Five- and nine-year survival rates for the patients without clinical evidence of metastatic disease was 64.4 and 50.1 per cent, respectively. These figures are similar to those in other series in which lymphadenectomy is performed initially or on a routine basis, and they support the premise that lymphadenectomy is unwarranted until there is clinical evidence or suspicion of regional lymphatic spread. Treatment for the 24 patients with clinical suspicion or evidence of regional lymphatic spread (Stage II) was varied with five- and nine-year survival rates of only 21.8 per cent.
Influence of obesity on the incidence and treatment of genitourinary malignancies.

Abstract Background Obesity is a growing epidemic in the United States. Many genitourinary malignancies are ranked among the current leading causes of cancer. As a result, there has been a surge of interest in understanding the impact of obesity on genitourinary malignancies. We sought to review the current literature concerning the influence of obesity on prostate, kidney, and bladder cancer. Methods A PubMed search was performed using key words related to incidence, treatment, obesity, prostate, kidney, and bladder cancer. Relevant articles and their references were reviewed and utilized. Results Obesity appears to promote an increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer (CaP). This may be related, in part, to a detection bias found in obese men. Worse surgical and radiation treatment outcomes in the obese appear to be related not only to technical challenges, but also inherent tumor biology differences and more aggressive disease presentations. A strong association between obesity and increased risk of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) has been established. Laparoscopic radical nephrectomy is now felt to be feasible in the obese and may be a lower morbidity technique compared with open surgery. Interestingly, obesity may confer an improved tumor-specific survival for localized RCC post nephrectomy. The influence of body mass index (BMI) on bladder cancer is poorly understood. Although a relationship may exist, due to the mixed and minimal observations, no firm conclusions should be drawn. Greater perioperative risks following open cystectomy have been found to occur in obese patients secondary to increase technical challenges. Conclusions The relationship between obesity and genitourinary malignancy is impressive. Technical challenges undoubtedly play a role in influencing treatment outcomes. Inherent biological effects are also likely influential. Future research is necessary to delineate these mechanisms and further clarify the influence of obesity on genitourinary cancer.
Persistent ectopic expression ofDrosophila homeotic genes resulting from maternal deficiency of theextra sex combs gene product

Abstract Like other members of the Polycomb group, the extra sex combs gene ( esc ) is required for the correct repression of loci in the major homeotic gene complexes. We show here that embryos lacking both maternal and zygotic esc + function display transient, general derepression of both the Ultrabithorax ( Ubx ) and Antennapedia ( Antp ) genes during germ band shortening, but Sex combs reduced ( Scr ) expression is almost normal in the epidermis and lacking in the central nervous system (CNS). In addition, embryos that are maternally esc − but receive two paternal copies of esc + often are characterized by ectopic expression of the three homeotic genes, especially Ubx and Antp in the CNS. Imaginal discs from these paternally rescued embryos may show discrete patches of expression of Ubx and Scr in inappropriate locations. Thus, lack of esc + function during a brief period in early embryogenesis results in a heritable change in determined state, even in a genetically wild type animal. Within these ectopic patches, homeotic gene expression may be regulated by the disc positional fields and by cross-regulatory interactions between homeotic genes.
Synthetic tetra-acylated derivatives of lipid A from Porphyromonas gingivalis are antagonists of human TLR4.

Tetra-acylated lipid As derived from Porphyromonas gingivalis LPS have been synthesized using a key disaccharide intermediate functionalized with levulinate (Lev), allyloxycarbonate (Alloc) and anomeric dimethylthexylsilyl (TDS) as orthogonal protecting groups and 9-fluorenylmethoxycarbamate (Fmoc) and azido as amino protecting groups. Furthermore, an efficient cross-metathesis has been employed for the preparation of the unusual branched R-(3)-hydroxy-13-methyltetradecanic acid and (R)-3-hexadecanoyloxy-15-methylhexadecanoic acid of P. gingivalislipid A. Biological studies have shown that the synthetic lipid As cannot activate human and mouse TLR2 and TLR4 to produce cytokines. However, it has been found that the compounds are potent antagonist of cytokine secretion by human monocytic cells induced by enteric LPS.
A study of the (3He, t) reaction on 60Ni

Abstract The 60Ni(3He, t)60Cu reaction was studied at 38 MeV. Angular distributions were obtained. from 2.5° to 65° for transitions to 40 levels in 60Cu. The data were compared to calculations done using a coupled-reaction-channels formalism. It was found that when two-step contributions arising from inelastic excitation of low-lying 2+ and 4+ levels in 60Ni followed by charge exchange were added to the direct charge-exchange contributions, and exchange contributions were considered as well, the J-dependence of the interaction strength Vτ was removed. Attempts to describe the shapes of several transitions to 1+ levels in 60Cu with the inclusion of a tensor force in the interaction were unsuccessful as the angular distributions preferred an l = 1 shape rather than a mixture of l = 0 and l = 2 transition amplitudes as predicted by calculations. In order to provide spectroscopic factors for the pickup-stripping calculations data were also obtained for the 60Ni(3He, α)59Ni reaction at 38 MeV. Spectroscopic factors were obtained from the eighteen measured angular distributions and found to be in fair agreement with theoretical predictions using the MSDI wave functions of Koops and Glaudemans.
High electromechanical coupling piezoelectrics: relaxor and normal ferroelectric solid solutions

Abstract A new category of piezoelectric ceramics with very high electromechanical coupling was discovered in a lead zinc niobate–lead titanate solid solution in a single crystal form. The maximum coupling factor k33 reaches 95%, which corresponds to the energy conversion rate twice as high as the conventional lead zirconate titanate ceramics. This paper reviews the previous studies on superior piezoelectricity in relaxor ferroelectric: lead titanate solid solutions and on the possible mechanisms of this high electromechanical coupling.
Malignant Granular-cell Myoblastoma of the Posterior Mediastinum

Malignant granular-cell myoblastoma is an uncommon tumor with only 13 previously reported cases. We report a 59-year-old woman with a malignant granular-cell myoblastoma in the posterior mediastinum. Histologically, the tumor shows a definite transition from benign granular-cell histology to malignant spindle-cell sarcoma. Only the spindle-cell component is noted in the metastatic bone lesion. A neural origin is proposed for this tumor.
The Client and the Cloud: Democratizing Research Computing

Extending the capabilities of PC, Web, and mobile applications through on-demand cloud services will significantly broaden the research community's capabilities, accelerating the pace of engineering and scientific discovery in this age of data-driven research. The net effect will be the democratization of research capabilities that are now available only to the most elite scientists.
Rapid microplate method for PAH estimation.

Evaluation of renal hemodynamics requires estimation of effective renal plasma flow, which is commonly measured by the renal clearance ofp-aminohippuric acid (PAH). There are many existing methods ...
The inhibition of early stages of HER-2/neu-mediated mammary carcinogenesis by dietary n-3 PUFAs.

Scope We previously demonstrated that lifelong feeding of diets enriched in n-3 fatty acids such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) significantly inhibits HER-2/neu-mediated mammary tumorigenesis in mice. Of interest is whether dietary n-3 fatty acids exert effects at early stages of mammary carcinogenesis. Methods and results Seven-week-old female MMTV-HER-2/neu transgenic mice were randomized to AIN-based semipurified diets containing either fish or corn oil at 25% energy. Mice were evaluated at 25, 30, and 35 weeks with analysis of mammary glands for atypical ductal hyperplasia (hematoxylin and eosin), cell proliferation (Ki67 immunostaining), and fatty acid synthase and cyclooxygenase-2 gene expression (qRT-PCR). Tissue fatty acid profiles were quantitated by GC. Atypia grade decreased significantly in mice fed fish oil (p = 0.002). Mammary epithelial cells in mammary glands from mice fed fish oil also had an eightfold lower percentage of Ki67 expression. COX-2 expression in mammary fat-pads significantly decreased in mice fed fish versus corn oil enriched diets. Conclusion Dietary fish oil inhibits atypical ductal hyperplasia at early stages of HER-2/neu-mediated mammary carcinogenesis relative to corn oil diets. This histologic change is associated with suppression of mammary epithelial cell proliferation and decreased COX-2 expression in mammary tissue.
Parallel Molecular Dynamics Simulations and Immersive Visualization of Thermal Barrier Coating Components: Thermally Growing Oxide and Yttria Stabilized Zirconia

Non-equilibrium parallel molecular dynamics simulation is used to determine the thermal conductivity of Alumina in the [2 1 1 0]direction at 1200 K: When thermal expansion is not allowed it is found to be 3.45 W/mK, while with thermal expansion it is 2.95 W/mK. A short ranged empirical potential for Yttria stabilized Zirconia (YSZ) is developed by fitting to available ab initio and experimentally derived data for Zirconia. With this potential, simulations of YSZ at 2073.16 K, with 4.9–23.1 mol% of Yttria in Zirconia, shows diffusing Oxygen and non-diffusing Zirconium and Yttrium atoms as expected. However, the diffusion constant of oxygen increases with the Yttria content, inconsistent with simulations with long range interactions showing a peak around 10 mol% of Yttria and also inconsistent experiment at 923 K. Visualizing the dynamics of atoms in Alumina, when driven by a heat-current forcing perturbation, shows phonon-like modes indicating the need for smaller perturbation or an alternate method to determine thermal properties.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
60NiTi Alloy for Tribological and Biomedical Surface Engineering Applications

60NiTi is an alloy with 60 wt% of nickel (Ni) and 40 wt% of titanium (Ti). This alloy was developed in the 1950s at the Naval Ordnance Laboratory (NOL) along with 55NiTi (55 wt% of Ni and 45 wt% of Ti). Both of these alloys exhibit the shape memory effect to different extents. The unique properties of 60NiTi, which are suitable for surface engineering (tribological) applications, are enumerated here. With appropriate heat treatment, this alloy can achieve high hardness (between Rc 55 and Rc 63). It has very good corrosion resistance and is resilient. Machinable before its final heat treatment, this alloy can be ground to fine surface finish and to tight dimensions. At one time, due to the popularity and wider applications of 55NiTi, the study of 60NiTi suffered. Recently, 60NiTi alloy gained some technological advantages due to advanced materials synthesis processes and progress in surface engineering. A feasibility study of 60NiTi bearings for space application has shown promise for its further development and suitability for other tribological applications. This report focuses on an overview of the properties and potential tribological and biomedical applications of 60NiTi.
Toxicology of a butylene glycol adipic acid polyester.

Abstract No adverse effects were encountered with a butylene glycol adipic acid polyester in chronic feeding studies in rats and dogs or in a 3-generation rat production study at dietary levels of 1000, 5000 and 10,000 ppm.
Gender, Physical Attractiveness, and Assertiveness

(1986). Gender, Physical Attractiveness, and Assertiveness. The Journal of Social Psychology: Vol. 126, No. 5, pp. 697-698.
Design space exploration of the turbo decoding algorithm on GPUs

In this paper, we explore the design space of the Turbo decoding algorithm on GPUs and find a performance bottleneck. We consider three axes for the design space exploration: a radix degree, a parallelization method, and the number of sub-frames per thread block. In Turbo decoding, a degree of radix affects computational complexity and memory access patterns in both algorithmic and implementation viewpoints. Second, computations of branch metrics (BMs) and state metrics (SMs) have a different degree of parallelism, which affects the mapping method of computational tasks to GPU threads. Finally, we can easily adjust the number of sub-frames per thread block to balance the occupancy and memory access traffic. Experimental results show that the radix-4 algorithm with the SM-centric mapping method shows the best performance at four sub-frames per thread block. According to our analysis, two factors -- the occupancy and shared memory bank conflicts -- differentiate the performance of different cases in the design space. We show further performance improvements by optimizing a kernel operation (max*) and applying the MAX-Log-Maximum A Posteriori (MAP) algorithm. A performance bottleneck at the finally optimized case is global memory access latency.Since the most optimized performance is comparable to that of the other programmable platforms, the GPU can be considered as another type of coprocessor for Turbo decoding implementations in mobile devices.
Amelioration by copper supplementation of mutant gene effects in the crinkled mouse.

SummaryThe possibility of a relationship between the autosomal recessive mutant gene crinkled in mice and copper metabolism was investigated by examining the effect of copper supplementation during pregnancy and lactation on the expression of the gene in homozygous mutant young. Survival of mutant mice to 30 days of age was doubled by feeding their mothers a high copper diet (500 ppm copper) during pregnancy and lactation, as compared with controls (6-11 ppm dietary copper). High dietary copper also prevented the lag in pigment development characteristic of the mutants. Furthermore, skin and epidermal thickness and hair bulb development were nearly normal in the high copper group, in contrast to thin skin and paucity of hairs in controls. Supplementation with manganese did not have these effects. Scanning electron micrographs showed the presence of three types of hair abnormalities in crinkled mutants, monilethrix, pili torti, and possibly trichorrhexis nodosa. The results show that increased availability...
Within-Species Mate Preferences Do Not Contribute to the Maintenance of Sexually Monomorphic Mating Signals in Green Lacewings

We know much less about the evolutionary forces and constraints that maintain similar mating displays in females and males than we do about sexually dimorphic mating displays. Both female and male green lacewings have sexually monomorphic vibrational mating signals and are equally choosy against heterospecific mating signals. This similarity in between-species sex roles may explain a large part of the presence of species-specific female signals in these species, but does not necessarily predict why female and male signals are similar. We tested for within-species sex-specific similarities in mate preferences in Chrysoperla lucasina that may contribute to the maintenance of sexually monomorphic mating signals in this species. We found weak preferences and low levels of discrimination for signals with varying fine-scale temporal features (volley duration, period, and volley-duty cycle). The longer signals that both sexes produced in response to playback were sexually monomorphic, but some females and most males also produced shorter signals with significantly reduced volley durations and periods. Notably, all of these signals had indistinguishable volley-duty cycles, the ratio of volley duration to volley period. We propose that mating signals in C. lucasina are maintained in both sexes because of similar between-species mate preferences, but the sexually monomorphic mating signals cannot be attributed to significant within-species mate preferences. What differences are present in within-species sex roles may be resolved by a male-biased signal polymorphism, in long and short signals that are hypothesized to have distinct functions during mate calling and courtship.
Nonlinear Decay Instability and Parametric Amplification of Cyclotron-Harmonic Plasma Waves

Experimental observation of the resonant mode-mode coupling type of nonlinear decay instability and parametric amplification of cyclotron-harmonic waves is reported. The instability is due to the scattering of finite amplitude waves.
Assessment of the nutritional adequacy of pet foods through the life cycle

Despite the lack of precise information on the requirements for many of the nutrients essential for cats and dogs and the paucity of information on the availability of nutrients in foods, many commercial diets support excellent growth, reproduction, and maintenance. However, these diets use empirical information that cannot be readily applied to the formulation of new diets. Progress in companion animal nutrition requires more precise information on requirements for various life stages (especially reproduction and maintenance), along with values for the bioavailability of nutrients in dietary ingredients. There is virtually no information on the bioavailability of nutrients for companion animals in many of the common dietary ingredients used in pet foods. These ingredients are generally byproducts of the meat, poultry and fishing industries, with the potential for wide variation in nutrient composition. Claims of nutritional adequacy of pet foods based on the current Association of American Feed Control Official (AAFCO) nutrient allowances ("profiles") do not give assurances of nutritional adequacy and will not until ingredients are analyzed and bioavailability values are incorporated. The AAFCO feeding test provides a superior method for assessing nutritional adequacy to the profile, although the current protocol has procedural and interpretative limitations.
Prospective studies of total and ionized serum calcium in relation to incident and fatal ovarian cancer.

Abstract Objective Biological markers that could aid in the detection of ovarian cancer are urgently needed. Many ovarian cancers express parathyroid hormone-related protein, which acts to raise calcium levels in serum. Thus, we hypothesized that high serum calcium levels might predict ovarian cancer. Methods We examined the associations between total and ionized serum calcium and ovarian cancer mortality in the Third National Health and Nutrition Survey (NHANES III) using Cox proportional hazard models. We then examined the associations of serum calcium with incident ovarian cancer in a second prospective cohort, the NHANES Epidemiological Follow-up Study (NHEFS). Results There were eleven deaths from ovarian cancer over 95,556 person-years of follow-up in NHANES III. After multivariable adjustment, the risk for fatal ovarian cancer was 52% higher for each 0.1mmol/L increase in total serum calcium (RH=1.52, 95% CI 1.06–2.19) and 144% higher for each 0.1mmol/L increase in ionized serum calcium (RH=2.44, 95% CI=1.45–4.09). Associations persisted after adjusting for nulliparity and the use of oral contraceptives. Eight incident ovarian cancers occurred over 31,089 person-years of follow-up in the NHEFS. After adjusting for covariates, there was a 63% higher risk for ovarian cancer with each 0.1mmol/L increase in total serum calcium (95% CI 1.14–2.34). Similar results were observed for albumin-adjusted serum calcium. Conclusions Higher serum calcium may be a biomarker of ovarian cancer. This is the first report of prospective positive associations between indices of calcium in serum and ovarian cancer. Our findings require confirmation in other cohorts.
On Feature Selection, Bias-Variance, and Bagging

We examine the mechanism by which feature selection improves the accuracy of supervised learning. An empirical bias/variance analysis as feature selection progresses indicates that the most accurate feature set corresponds to the best bias-variance trade-off point for the learning algorithm. Often, this is not the point separating relevant from irrelevant features, but where increasing variance outweighs the gains from adding more (weakly) relevant features. In other words, feature selection can be viewed as a variance reduction method that trades off the benefits of decreased variance (from the reduction in dimensionality) with the harm of increased bias (from eliminating some of the relevant features). If a variance reduction method like bagging is used, more (weakly) relevant features can be exploited and the most accurate feature set is usually larger. In many cases, the best performance is obtained by using all available features.
An automatic activation detector for bipolar cardiac electrograms

The authors have developed a computer program, called AP, that automatically detects and locates activation events in bipolar electrograms. AP uses a slope threshold to detect events and a pattern-matching technique to locate the time of activation within each activation waveform. For sinus rhythm and paced and ectopic contractions AP has a detection sensitivity of 0.942 and mislocates 16.4% of the true detections by a mean of 1.59 ms. For ventricular fibrillation the detection sensitivity is 0.882 with 27.1% of the true detections being mislocated by a mean of 3.11 ms. >
Dynamic Compensation of Raman Tilt in a Fiber Link by EDFA during Transient Events

The tilt in channel power distribution due to Raman induced channel-to-channel interaction can be accurately estimated by relatively simple means. Simulations show that the tilt can be dynamically compensated by adjusting an EDFA tilt.
Modelling black fly production dynamics in blackwater streams

SUMMARY. 1. Two predictive models were employed along with intensive field sampling to estimate production of black flies (Simulium spp.) on snags (submerged wood) in three blackwater streams on the Georgia Coastal Plain of the southeastern U.S.A. One model predicts daily growth rate from temperature and hydrograph pattern; the other predicts habitat abundance (of snags) from river height. 2. In the sixth order Ogeechee River, annual production was twice as high in 1982 (7.1 g dry mass [=DM] m−2 of snag surface) as in 1983 (3.6 g DM m−2). When converted to production per m2 of river bottom, values were 35–40% of the snag surface estimates. Annual production was much lower in fourth order Black Creek (1982, 1.3 g DM m−2 of snag surface) and much higher in the sixth order Satilla River (1975, 15.6–40.0 g DM m−2). 3. There was a distinct bimodal pattern of black fly production in the Ogeechee River in both years, with peaks occurring in winter and summer. Similar bimodal patterns of production were found in Black Creek and in the Satilla River. Although there appears to be an intrinsic component to the bimodal pattern, production peaks (growth rate and biomass) appear to be associated with initial stages of flooding. 4. Annual production/biomass ratios (37–85) are the highest reported for black fly populations. The variation of annual P/B ratios among sites was more strongly dependent on the temporal distribution of standing stock biomass than on differences in growth rates. Variation in production among sites appears to be due to differences in current velocity, hydro-graph variability, and abundance of coexisting consumers.
Walking the Walk: Teacher Candidates' Professed Commitment to Urban Teaching and Their Subsequent Career Decisions.

This study is a longitudinal analysis of the early career decisions made by graduates of an urban-focused secondary teacher preparation program. By matching graduates’ self-reported commitment to teaching in urban schools at the end of the training program to the demographic data of the schools where they subsequently teach, the authors explore the relationship between preservice teacher attitudes about urban schools and their actual career decisions by tracking the urbanicity and student characteristics of graduates’ schools. The authors find that most graduates attain teaching jobs in urban schools, and higher percentages of graduates who exit the program more committed to teaching in urban schools take jobs in urban schools with higher percentages of students of color and low-income students. The vast majority of graduates remain in urban schools, but those graduates who transfer to work in less urban and/or schools with fewer students of color or teachers who leave the field altogether are those who r...