cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Toxoplasma gondii actively remodels the microtubule network in host cells

Toxoplasma gondii infection triggers host microtubule rearrangement and organelle recruitment around the parasite vacuole. Factors affecting initial stages of microtubule remodeling are unknown. To illuminate the mechanism, we tested the hypothesis that the parasite actively remodels host microtubules. Utilizing heat-killed parasites and time-lapse analysis, we determined microtubule rearrangement requires living parasites and is time dependent. We discovered a novel aster of microtubules (MTs) associates with the vacuole within 1h of infection. This aster lacks the concentrated foci of gamma (gamma)-tubulin normally associated with MT nucleation sites. Unexpectedly, vacuole enlargement does not correlate with an increase in MT staining around the vacuole. We conclude microtubule remodeling does not result from steric constraints. Using nocodazole washout studies, we demonstrate the vacuole nucleates host microtubule growth in-vivo via gamma-tubulin-associated sites. Moreover, superinfected host cells display multiple gamma-tubulin foci. Microtubule dynamics are critical for cell cycle control in uninfected cells. Using non-confluent monolayers, we show host cells commonly fail to finish cytokinesis resulting in larger, multinucleated cells. Our data suggest intimate interactions between T. gondii and host microtubules result in suppression of cell division and/or cause a mitotic defect, thus providing a larger space for parasite duplication.
The effect of structure on the strain rate sensitivity of 3003 AlMn alloy

Abstract The effect of initial structure on the strain rate sensitivity of 3003 commercial aluminum alloy was studied as a function of strain at temperatures of 25° C and −196° C. The strain rate sensitivity was found to be critically dependent on the initial structure, test temperature and strain, and thus on the instantaneous structure. The change of flow stress with an increase in strain rate resulted in positive, K > 0[K = ( d σ/ d log dot e ) T ] , negative, K
The power law and subjective scales of number.

Ekrnan (1964) has offered a derivation of the psychophysical power law from Fechner's conjecture of a logarithmic relationship of subjective magnitude to stimulus intensity. The derivation assumes that Fechner's "law" describes subjective responses to numbers as well as reactions to conventional prothetic domains. Thus, argues Ekman, magnitude estimation requires S to match subjective impressions of the stimuli under test to his internal scale of number. The equating of rwo logarithmic functions produces mathematically a power relationship between their arguments. Some years ago, Dr. Ethel Matin, Dr. Truett Allison, and I became interested in possible subjective scales for numbers. W e posed the problem raised by Ekman in a more general form and asked whether subjective responses to number distort magnitude or caregory scales in any fashion. To answer the question, we had people scale numbers by magnitude estimation and by category rating. The instructions for magnitude estimations ran along the following lines: This is an experiment to test your reactions to numbers. Whenever I say the number "37," you must respond with "83." If I give you a number that seems 8 times larger than 37, you must respond with 664, which is 8 times larger than 83. If I say a number char seems about half as large as 37, you must say 42. In other words, you should reply with a number which bears the same proportion to 8 3 as the number I say bears to 37. Now I will read numbers to you very quickly. Answer just as fasr as you can. You won't have time to calculate anything so do your best and don't worry about being consistent. One E then read a random, replicated sequence of numbers at a rare of about 1 every 2 sec. Another E wrote down S's replies. Then, after receiving appropriate instructions, S quickly rated numbers on a 7-point category scale. At the end of the experiment, each S felt that the task was fairly easy. The most harassed participant in the srudy was the E who recorded the responses. Neither the magnitude estimates nor the category ratings gave any indication of nonlinear subjective responses to number. Ekman's theory could account for the linear magnitude estimates. If number were a prothetic continuum, however, the category ratings should have been non-linear and they were not. The simplest interpretation of the results is that Ss have a nicely linear subjective scale of number. Acceptance of this interpretation implies rejection of Ekman's derivation of the power law from Fechner's conjecture.
Medication Risk-Taking Behavior in Functional Dyspepsia Patients

OBJECTIVES No medication is approved for the treatment of functional dyspepsia (FD). The risks that patients would be willing to take to cure their FD symptoms are unknown. METHODS FD patients (Rome III criteria) were mailed a questionnaire that assessed demographics, medication use, and prior medication adverse events. Scales to measure FD severity, quality of life, anxiety, depression, impulsiveness, and risk-taking behavior were included. A standard gamble (SG) evaluated willingness to take risks associated with a theoretical FD medication. Data were analyzed using simple descriptive statistics. RESULTS One hundred and fourteen responses were analyzed (54.5% response rate). The mean age of the patients was 49.2 years; 84% were women and 96% were white. The mean duration of symptoms was 8.2 years (range 1-38 years). The most bothersome symptom was upper abdominal discomfort (25%), followed by upper abdominal pain (22%) and bloating (15%). Forty percent of respondents rated their FD symptoms as moderate and 31% as mild. Forty-six percent reported a side effect from a prescription medication used to treat FD. When asked about a hypothetical medication that could cure their FD symptoms, 49% of respondents reported that they would accept a mean 12.7% risk of sudden death for a 99% chance of cure. CONCLUSIONS This prospective study suggests that FD patients are surprisingly willing to take significant risks with a hypothetical medication to cure their symptoms. To counsel patients effectively and assist in the development of informed, preference-based decisions regarding medication therapy, physicians need to elicit and understand FD patients' risk adversity.
StarLite, a visual simulation package for software prototyping

We describe a software prototyping environment implemented on the Lilith computer. By isolating hardware dependencies, the environment supports the development and testing of concurrent and distributed algorithms on a host as well as on the target hardware. A library of generic devices, which includes clocks, disks and EtherNets, is provided to support experimentation. The paper describes how any programming language can be extended to provide such an environment by adding subroutine packages for concurrent programming, simulation, and window management.
The association of black sociologists: A descriptive account from an “insider”

This is a briefcase study of one particular black professional group, the Asso ciation of Black Sociologists. Even here, however, it is limited in its temporal focus to 1976 and earlier, the years when the organization was called the Cau cus of Black Sociologists (CBS). One of the reasons encouraging this type of study is due to the overall professional and social importance of such a group as well as growing difficulty in obtaining relevant data with the passing of time. People's knowledge and records tend to diminish with the passing of time. Very little has been written on the early days of the Caucus of Black Sociolo gists. James E. Blackwell's "Role Behavior in a Corporate Structure: Black Soci ologists in ASA" (1974) is an important and notable exception. Anyone, therefore, desiring to reconstruct the activities, beliefs and accomplishments of CBS must depend on letters, reports, newsletters, programs, conversations (by telephone and in person), documents, and so forth. Such was the case in at tempting to write this article. There is no central depository of CBS archives. This article is shaped also by the author's direct and active participation in CBS as well as studies by him of black sociologists on two different occasions, 1968 and 1981. In the late 1960s black sociologists, as well as many other black professionals within larger professional bodies, perceived the necessity of organizing to achieve recognition and enhance opportunities. Tilman C. Cothran provided the initial leadership within the American Sociological Association (ASA). Dis mayed at the absence of black participation in the annual programs of ASA, Dr.
Impurity excitation effects in metals

Excitation spectra of Ag, Mg, Cu, and Fe impurities in alkali metals are reported. A detailed analysis identifies components derived from (i) single-particle scattering, (ii) perturbed plasmon processes, (iii) localized excitations, and (iv) the associated shakeoff effects.
Improved outcome with multimodality therapy in primary cardiac angiosarcoma

Cardiac angiosarcomas are characterized by a difficult clinical diagnosis and poor prognosis. Pigott et al. report the case of a 37-year-old man diagnosed with primary cardiac angiosarcoma with systemic metastases who was managed with neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy with doxorubicin, and complete resection of the tumor. The authors discuss the combination of treatments undertaken, and suggest a multidisciplinary approach to improve outcome in patients with cardiac angiosarcoma. Background A 37-year-old man presented with a history of hemoptysis and associated fever, chills, night sweats, and weight loss. The patient had no other pertinent past medical history. Investigations Physical examination, CT scan, transesophageal echocardiogram, electrocardiogram, MRI scan, and immunohistochemical staining of tumor biopsy. Diagnosis Primary cardiac angiosarcoma of the right atrium with systemic metastases to the pericardium, superior vena cava, and lungs. Management Neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy with doxorubicin and complete surgical resection of the tumor with reconstruction of the right atrium using bovine pericardium.
Analysis of the role of conserved cysteine residues in the bcl-2 oncoprotein.

The Bcl-2 oncoprotein is an integral membrane protein localized primarily to the outer membrane of the mitochondria. The precise molecular mechanism responsible for the antiapoptotic action of Bcl-2 remains unknown. Two cysteine residues are found in Bcl-2 and these residues are well-conserved across species. The first cysteine (cys(155)) is located in the alpha5 domain, a region important for the ion channel properties of Bcl-2, while the second cysteine (cys(226)) is located in the carboxyl-terminal membrane anchor domain. In this study, we found that replacement of both cysteines with serine residues generated a mutant protein that retained the ability to homodimerize and heterodimerize with proapoptotic Bax protein in vitro. In whole cells, the mutant protein efficiently heterodimerized with Bax, but exhibited impaired homodimerizationrelative to wild-type Bcl-2. The mutant protein was also less efficient than wild-type Bcl-2 at suppressing caspase activation, DNA fragmentation, and loss of viability during IL-3 withdrawal-induced apoptosis. Together, the data indicate that the cysteine residues in Bcl-2 contribute, but are not absolutely essential, to the ability of Bcl-2 to homodimerize, heterodimerize with Bax, and suppress apoptosis.
Microgeographic Variation in Drosophila Pseudoöbscura.

Studies of recent years have revealed a prodigious amount of variability in the gene arrangement in the chromosomes of several species of Drosophila. In natural populations of D. pseudooobscura the third chromosome is more variable than the rest; eighteen structural types, related to each other mostly as overlapping inversions, have been found in this chromosome alone.(1)
Comparative Analysis of Ribosome‐Associated Adenosinetriphosphatase (ATPase) from Pig Liver and the ATPase of Elongation Factor 3 from Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Elongation factor 3 (EF-3) is a unique and essential requirement of the fungal translational machinery. Non-fungal organisms do not have and do not require a soluble form of the third elongation factor for translation. To test whether non-fungal organisms have a direct analog of EF-3 incorporated in the structure of the ribosomes, a comparison of EF-3 adenosinetriphosphatase (ATPase) with ATPases associated with pig liver ribosomes was carried out. EF-3 function depends on ATP (GTP) hydrolysis. The hydrolytic activity of EF-3 is enhanced by two orders of magnitude by yeast ribosomes due to an increase in the turnover rate of EF-3. The nucleotide hydrolytic activity of EF-3 is significantly constrained by the binding of aminoacylated tRNAphe to poly(U)-programmed ribosomes. The translational inhibitors – neomycin and α-sarcin suppress the ATPase activity of EF-3. These results reflect a direct correlation between EF-3 ATPase and the functional state of the ribosome. Four lines of evidence indicate that yeast EF-3 ATPase is functionally distinct from pig liver ribosome associated ATPases. The kinetic parameters of ATPases from these two sources are different. Poly(U) and tRNA have no effect on the ATPase activity associated with the pig liver ribosomes. The latter activity is unaffected by the translational inhibitors neomycin and α-sarcin. The translational activity of pig liver ribosomes is not influenced by ATP, ADP or adenosine 5′-[β, γ-imido]triphosphate. In an in vitro system, one can demonstrate a small but consistent stimulatory effect of yeast EF-3 on polyphenylalanine synthesis by pig liver ribosomes only when EF-1α is present at a limited concentration. The EF-3 effect disappears when EF-1α is added in a stoichiometric amount to the pig liver ribosomes. This result is in contrast to the yeast system where the ribosomes are completely dependent on EF-3 at all concentrations of EF-1α.
Biosynthesis of chelidonic acid. I. Preliminary observation on the precursors of chelidonic acid in Convallaria majalis L.

The biosynthesis of chelidonic acid (γ-pyrone-2,6-dicarboxylic acid) has been studied in mature, flowering Convallaria majalis L. plants. Glueose-U.L. −14 C and ribose-l −14 C were incorporated into the chelidonic acid molecule with dilutions of 720 and 940, respectively, while the dilution for acetate-2 −14 C was 11,000. Shikimate-G −14 C was not incorporated. Chemical degradation of chelidonic acid obtained from feeding glucose-6 −14 C showed 75% of the label in carbons 3, 4, and 5 and 25% in carbons 1, 2, 6, and 7. These results would preclude formation of chelidonic acid from sedoheptulose as a major pathway.
Relationships of sexual imposition, dyadic trust, and sensation seeking with sexual risk behavior in young Urban women.

This study was designed to examine the relationships of sexual imposition, dyadic trust, and sensation seeking with HIV sexual risk behavior in 257 young urban women. Interviews were conducted using Audio Computer-Assisted Self-Interview (ACASI). Hierarchical multiple regression revealed that sexual imposition, dyadic trust, and sensation seeking explained 18.3% of the variance in sexual risk behavior. Although sexual imposition was positively related to sexual risk, pressure to satisfy a male partner sexually was more common than physical coercion. Dyadic trust was negatively related, indicating that women engaged in sexual risk behavior with men they distrusted. Sensation seeking was positively related to sexual risk. Findings suggest the need for enhancing awareness of non–sexually imposing relationship alternatives and incorporating thrill and excitement in health promotion messages. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 27:185–197, 2004
Ionic polymer–metal composite actuators exhibiting self-oscillation

Abstract In this paper, we present a fascinating new feature of ionic polymer–metal composite (IPMC), “self-oscillation”. In the presence of small organic molecules (SOMs) in an aqueous medium, the self-oscillatory and periodic deformation of IPMCs was evident. The oscillations are caused by the potential periodicity in the Pt anode where the activation-overpotential is altered by complex surface reactions under an applied dc current. Such a self-oscillatory behavior of IPMC was highly conceivable and repeatable when it was properly prepared. The importance of surface reactions can be acknowledged when the electrochemical reactions among potential intermediates, such as PtOH, PtO, and PtCO are believed to exist. The oscillatory potential was obtained by properly alternating the presence and the absence of CO molecules on the anode at a constant current.
The effects of lateral hypothalamic lesions and castration upon the body weight and composition of male rats

Changes were measured in the body weight and carcass composition of male rats following either lateral hypothalamic (LH) lesions or castration. Following LH lesions, body weight declined sharply until stabilizing at a reduced level which was then maintained for the remainder of the 167-day observation period. Carcass analysis revealed that this weight adjustment was accomplished principally by a reduction in fat stores. The pattern of weight and composition change following castration differed markedly from that which followed LH lesions. Castration resulted in a decreased rate of weight gain, but no absolute weight loss. The weight difference resulting from this reduced growth rate was reflected primarily by changes in body water and nonfat solids. Some animals received both LH lesion and castration treatments. The combined manipulations produced a weight change which represented the simple additive effects of each independent treatment. Likewise, their combined effects on carcass composition were additive. It was also observed that animals which had been both castrated and lesioned remained as sensitive to the weight promoting effects of testosterone as animals which were castrated but neurally intact. These and other available data indicate that the weight-promoting effects of testosterone occur independently of the hypothalamic systems for weight regulation.
2-Mercapto-1-(β-4-pyridethyl) benzimidazole inhibition of basal and aldosterone-stimulated sodium transport but prolongation of the transient theophylline-induced stimulation in the toad bladder

Abstract 2-Mercapto-1-(β-4-pyridethyl) benzimidazole (MPB) was originally introduced as a reversible inhibitor of RNA synthesis, but subsequent findings made this suggestion doubtful. We examined the effect of MPB on active sodium transport, measured as short-circuit current (scc), across the isolated urinary bladder of the toad (Bufo marinus). The drug caused a rapid, dose-dependent inhibition of baseline scc; 25 μg/ml MPB reduced it by 70%. Sensitivity to MPB was the same in the presence and absence of metabolizable substrate. The transport stimulation by aldosterone (7 × 10−8 M) was abolished entirely when MPB was introduced 30 min before the hormone. In bladders incubated with MPB with or without aldosterone, removal of both agents resulted in a rise in scc, which was more rapid in the aldosterone-pretreated hemibladders; a significant difference was observed after 30 min. This suggests that MPB inhibited transport at a site distal to messenger RNA accumulation. The effect of 3 hr of pretreatment with MPB on the response of the bladders to antidiuretic hormone (ADH, 20 mU) and cyclic AMP (cAMP, 10 mM) was then examined. The absolute increment in scc due to these agents was the same as in the absence of MPB, though the baseline was much reduced by the drug. After challenging MPB-pretreated bladders with theophylline (22.5 mM), sodium transport rose continuously for 90 min, in contrast to the small, short-lived rise in the absence of MPB. It is proposed that, in the toad bladder, MPB may: (1) inhibit cAMP-dependent protein kinase, as found by us in other tissues; and (2) counteract the accumulation of a transport inhibitor, possibly calcium or cyclic GMP, in tissues treated with endogenous or exogenous cAMP.
Does Critical Reflection by Biochemistry Learning Teams Foster Patient-centered Beliefs among Medical Students?

The authors measured patient-centered orientation scores of first-year osteopathic medical students before vs. after implementing exercises to foster critical reflection by learning teams. In the 2008–09 academic year, 60 of a total of 130 classroom hours were devoted to team-based learning (TBL) in a sequence of three Biochemistry courses (1500, 1501 and 1502). TBL was modified to include required and extra-credit team critical reflection assignments. Index questions were used to compare student learning on their own using modified TBL to learning facilitated by instructors in the preceding year. Individual student performances on index questions improved using modified TBL as the sequence of three courses progressed from 8% lower than in the prior year for the first course (p<0.001) to 7% higher than in the prior year for the third course (p<0.005). Moreover, team members cooperated more on team tests as they progressed from Biochemistry 1500 through Biochemistry 1502 (p<0.01). Finally, students became more patient-centered and caring (p<0.0001) using modified TBL, whereas the reverse was observed (p<0.01) prior to implementing exercises to foster critical reflection by team-based learning teams. Thus, TBL, modified to include opportunities for team critical reflection, fostered both cooperation and patient-centered orientations in first-year medical students.
After seven years, where's the consensus?

It has been 7 years since the discovery of copper oxide superconductors, yet there is no consensus on the correct theory for this phenomenon. The theory can be divided into 3 groups: ordinary (phonons), exotic (AF spin fluctuations, nested Fermi liquid, excitons, spin bags, odd frequency pairing), and revolutionary (Luttinger liquid, spin-charge separation, gauge theories, anyons, marginal Fermi liquid). C-axis dispersion, dHvA, and magneto-oscillations are also discussed.
A Markov decision model for computer-aided instruction

Abstract A mathematical model for computer-aided instruction is developed. It is assumed that the course is divided into a hierarchy of levels of difficulty. These levels are such that if a student is able to perform successfully at a given level of difficulty, he can also perform successfully at all levels of lesser difficulty. Furthermore, if student performs successfully at one level, it increases his probability of being able to perform successfully at the next higher level of difficulty. Given the initial vector of probabilities for successful performance at each level, the vector describing how these probabilities change with successful performances at each level, and the expected times it takes to attempt a successful performance at each level, this model computes an instructional sequence that minimizes the expected time required for the student to complete the course by performing successfully at the highest level of difficulty. Dynamic programming is used to find this sequence.
Resonant sum frequency generation studies of surfactant ordering at the oil.water interface

Total internal reflection sum frequency generation has been used to obtain the first vibrational spectrum of a simple surfactant at an oil-water interface. The system examined is sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) at the D2O-CCl4 interface. The spectrum of the monolayer is obtained at a series of concentrations which extend from concentrations above the critical micelle concentration of SDS in the D2O solution to interfacial concentrations as low as 0.03 monolayers. SDS shows the highest degree of order at monolayer concentrations with decreasing order displayed at lower interfacial concentrations. Significant vibrational contributions from methylene stretches of the alkyl backbone of the molecule at all concentrations suggests less order for this surfactant at the liquid-liquid interface than has been observed in previous liquid-air and solid-air studies.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Ab Initio Study of Prednisolone, 6α-Fluoroprednisolone, 9α-Fluoroprednisolone, and 6α,9α-Difluoroprednisolone

A theoretical study of prednisolone, 6α-fluoroprednisolone, 9α-fluoroprednisolone, and 6α,9α-difluoroprednisolone has been performed at the ab initio HF/6-31G, MP2/6-31G, and B3LYP/6-31G levels. Structural information and the electronic features of prednisolone and its derivatives and the synergistic effect of 6α,9α-difluoroprednisolone was examined. Contrary to the AM1 and MNDO results, we found 9α-fluoroprednisolone is more stable than the 6α-fluoroprednisolone. The increased corticosteroid activity of the 6α,9α-difluoroprednisolone is most likely due to electronic effects, mainly related to the receptor binding.
Atomic scale calculations of tungsten surface binding energy and beryllium-induced tungsten sputtering

Abstract Tungsten surface binding energy is calculated using classical molecular dynamic simulations with three many-body potentials. We present the consistency in tungsten sputtering yield by beryllium bombardment between molecular dynamic LAMMPS code and binary collision approximation ITMC code using the new surface binding energy (11.75 eV). The commonly used heat of sublimation value (8.68 eV) could lead to overestimated sputtering yield results. The analysis of the sputtered tungsten angular distributions show that molecular dynamic accurately reproduced the [1 1 1] most prominent preferential ejection directions in bcc tungsten, while the distinct shapes by typical MC codes such as ITMC code is caused by the treatment of amorphous target. The ITMC calculated emitted tungsten energy profile matches the Thompson energy spectrum, while the molecular dynamic results generally follow the Falcone energy spectrum.
Low-Voltage Magnetron Application for Microwave Cooking

System requirements for domestic electronic ovens are outlined with emphasis on low cost and long life. A low-voltage magnetron permits operation from a voltage doubler supply, thus avoiding use of an expensive plate transformer. Magnetron design factors include frequency, power, and tolerance to a wide range of load impedance. A complete RF generator is described which meets the desired specifications. This paper is directed to oven designers. Emphasis will be on RF generator characteristics that influence the oven design.
Preconceptions of taste based on color.

The authors examined preconceptions of taste based on color with a questionnaire administered to 45 college students. The questionnaire related 8 tastes with 10 colors. The results suggested that only a limited number of colors are positively associated with preconceptions of taste. However, certain colors (e.g., red and green) showed consistent patterns of association with taste. Implications for future research examining an indirect relationship between color and taste are discussed.
Characterization of electro-optic polymer films by use of decal-deposited reflection Fabry–Perot microcavities

We have used resonant reflection mode Fabry–Perot microcavities (RFPM’s) to determine linear optical and electro-optical properties of poled nonlinear optical polymers (NLP’s). Measured reflectances from angular scans of RFPM’s have been analyzed with an electromagnetic plane-wave multilayer analysis that took into account the anisotropic nature of the NLP layer. We have numerically investigated the mutual dependence of refractive indices and layer thickness and the accuracy of the results obtained. As an illustration of this characterization technique, the refractive indices of a 10 mol. % Disperse Red 1/poly(methyl methacrylate) side-chain NLP have been determined to within ±0.005, the NLP layer thicknesses to within 1%, and electro-optic coefficients to within 5%. We optimized RFPM structures for measurements at the wavelength λ=430 nm by changing the electrode metal from gold to aluminum. Using a guest–host NLP, 5 wt. % diphenyl-tricyanovinyl-aniline in poly(methyl methacrylate), we show that the method is capable of measuring electrorefraction and electroabsorption as well as a converse piezoelectric contribution. We show that a NLP decal deposition technique is particularly well suited to fabrication of these RFPM’s.
Mutagenesis studies with four stereoisomeric N2-dG benzo[a]pyrene adducts in the identical 5'-CGC sequence used in NMR studies: G->T mutations dominate in each case.

Benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) is a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) and a potent mutagen/carcinogen found ubiquitously in the environment. B[a]P is primarily metabolized to diol epoxides, which react principally at N 2 -dG in DNA. B[a]P-N 2 -dG adducts have been shown to induce a variety of mutations, notably G→T, G→A, G→C and - 1 frameshifts. Four stereoisomers of B[a]P-N 2 -dG (designated: [+ta]-;, [+ca]-, [-ta] and [-ca]) were studied by NMR in duplex 11mers in a 5'-CGC sequence context, and each adopted a different adduct conformation (Geacintov, et al. (1997) Chem. Res. Toxicol., 10, 111). Herein these four identical B[a]P-containing 11mers are built into duplex plasmid genomes and mutagenesis studied in Escherichia coli following SOS-induction. In nucleotide excision repair (NER) proficient E.coli, no adduct-derived mutants are detected. In NER deficient E.coli, G→T mutations dominate for all four stereoisomers [+ta]-, [+ca]-, [-ta] and [-ca]-B[a]P-N 2 -dG, and mutation frequency is similar. Thus, the mutagenic pattern for these four B[a]P-N 2 -dG stereoisomers is the same, in spite of the fact that they adopt dramatically different conformations in ds-oligonucleotides as determined by NMR. These findings suggest that adduct conformation must be fluid enough in the 5'-CGC sequence that the duplex DNA conformation can interconvert to mutagenic and non-mutagenic conformations during lesion-bypass. A comparison of all published studies with these four B[a]P-N 2 -dG stereoisomers in E.coli reveals that B[a]P-N 2 -dG adduct stereochemistry tends to have a lesser impact on mutagenic pattern (e.g. G→T versus G→A mutations) than does DNA sequence context, which is discussed.
Unit Testing Non-functional Concerns of Component-based Distributed Systems

Unit testing component-based distributed systems traditionally involves testing functional concerns of the application logic throughout the software lifecycle. In contrast, testing non-functional distributed system concerns (e.g., end-to-end response time, security, and reliability) typically does not occur until system integration because it requires a complete system to perform such tests, as well as sophisticated techniques to identify and analyze performance metrics that constitute non-functional concerns. Unit testing non-functional concerns is even harder in an agile development environment, due to the disconnect between high-level system specification and low-level performance metrics. This paper describes a methodology and tool called Understanding Non-functional Intentions via Testing and Experimentation (UNITE)}. UNITE is designed to unit test non-functional concerns of three component-based distributed systems. The results from applying UNITE to a component-based distributed system show how it simplifies unit testing and evaluation of non-functional properties during the early stages of the software lifecycle.
Evolution of MOS-bipolar power semiconductor technology

A review of the innovations that have led to the evolution of a power transistor technology based on MOS gate control is provided. This technology offers the advantage of very high input impedance, which allows the control of the devices using low-cost integrated circuits. The physics of operation of the two types of devices in this category, power MOSFETs and power MOS-bipolar devices, are described. Trends in process technology and device ratings are analyzed. Based on the superior performance of these devices, it is projected that they will completely displace the power bipolar transistor in the future. >
Low complexity turbo equalization for high density magnetic recording

In the context of iterative decoding and equalization (a.k.a. turbo equalization) of high density magnetic recording (MR) channels, we propose a low complexity soft-in soft-out (SISO) algorithm which implements the constrained delay a-posteriori probability (CD-APP) estimation utilizing either hard or soft decision feedback (HDF/SDF). Through BER simulation, we show that for an MR channel with user density 3.2, our proposed iterative scheme based on SDF enjoys a 6+ dB coding gain over the uncoded system and is superior to HDF by 2.2 dB at BER of 10/sup -5/. It also performs comparably to the iterative system in which the BCJR algorithm matched to a generalized E2PR4 (GE2PR4) target is used for channel detection. Through captured burst error statistics, we show that SDF can significantly mitigate the detrimental effect of error propagation typically observed in systems based on RDF. The short burst error feature of SDF is most attractive in light of an outer error correcting code (ECC), such as the Reed-Solomon code.
Collective effects, relaxation, and localization of hole levels in atoms, molecules, solids, and adsorbates

Recent progress in descriptions of photoelectron spectra is reviewed with emphasis on cases where the one-electron and quasiparticle approximations break down and the hole level becomes spread over a number of discrete lines or a continuum or both. Unifying aspects and similarities between interaction processes in atoms, molecules, and solids are stressed.
Challenges For Vacuum Interrupter Design

Vacuum interrupters form the key component of a medium voltage (MV) vacuum switchgear design. Vacuum interrupter technology is now well established and key manufacturers across the world are routinely producing interrupters for ratings up to 52kVrms. Manufacturers have focused on reducing the cost of interrupter components by adapting to more efficient contact geometry, improved contact materials, finite element modelling for improved field distribution and new processing techniques. However, these methods are now such that further cost reductions are becoming difficult. This may become a driving force to improve design capability with further scope for cost reductions. For example, in the low voltage (LV) sector (< lkV) vacuum interrupters are available at costs that are much higher than air break switches. Similarly, in the high voltage (HV) sector (52kV les Ur les 145kV) no efficient and cost effective designs are available, and in addition, radiation related safety concerns must be considered. This paper explores the existing switchgear portfolio in LV, MV and HV segments, corresponding demand and emerging market needs for vacuum interrupters and explores areas where the technology needs to be developed and new products brought to market
A Lanczos-based method for structural dynamic reanalysis problems

In this paper, a new solution method for the modified eigenvalue problem with specific application to structural dynamic reanalysis is presented. The method, which is based on the block Lanczos algorithm, is developed for multiple low rank modifications to a system and calculates a few selected eigenpairs. Given the solution to the original system Ax = λx, procedures are developed for the modified standard eigenvalue Problem (A + ΔA)x = λx, where 1ΔA = ΣjBSjBT, where Sj = S ∈ ℛp × p, p ≪ n and B ∈ ℛn × p is constant for all the perturbations Sj. 2ΔA = ΣiΣjBiSjBiT, where Bi ∈ ℛn × p may vary with the pertubations Sj. The procedures are then extended for the reciprocal and generalized eigenvalue problems so that they are directly applicable to the structural dynamic reanalysis problem. Numerical examples are given to demonstrate the applications of the method.
Fatty acid esterification and chylomicron formation during fat absorption: 1. Triglycerides and cholesterol esters*

SUMMARY Experiments were conducted to study in vivo the over-all fatty acid specificity of the mechanisms involved in chylomicron cholesterol ester and triglyceride formation during fat absorption in the rat. Mixtures containing similar amounts of two, three, or four C14-labeled fatty acids (palmitic, stearic, oleic, and linoleic acids), but with varying ratios of unlabeled fatty acids, were given by gastric intubation to rats with cannulated thoracic ducts. The chyle or chylomicron lipid so obtained was chromatographed on silicic acid columns to separate cholesterol esters and glycerides (the latter being 98.2% triglycerides). After assaying each lipid class for total radioactivity, gas-liquid chromatography was employed to measure the total mass and the distribution of mass and of radioactivity in the individual fatty acid components of each lipid fraction. The specific radioactivity of each fatty acid in each fraction could then be calculated. The data provided quantitative information on the relative specificity of incorporation of each fatty acid into each chylomicron lipid class and on the relative extent to which each fatty acid in each lipid fraction was diluted with endogenous fatty acid. With the exception of a slight discrimination against stearic acid, the processes of fatty acid absorption and chylomicron triglyceride formation displayed no specificity for one fatty acid relative to another. In contrast, chylomicron cholesterol ester formation showed marked specificity for oleic acid, relative to the other three fatty acids. This specificity was not significantly altered by varying the composition of the test meal, by including cholesterol in the test meal, or by feeding the animal a high-cholesterol diet for several weeks preceding the study. Considerable dilution of the dietary fatty acids with endogenous fatty acids was observed. In one experiment, 43Oj, of the chylomicron triglyceride fatty acidb was of endogenous origin. Relatively more (5473 of the cholesterol ester fatty acid.; mas of endogenous origin.
Perianal pyoderma gangrenosum after excision and fulguration of anal condyloma acuminatum.

Introduction Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare, inflammatory skin pathology frequently associated with systemic inflammatory disease. While rare after surgery, recognition of this disease in the post-surgical setting is important as it can mimic wound infection.
Development of a literature informed Bayesian machine learning method for feature extraction and classification

Background Gene expression profiling is a powerful approach to identify markers for classification of samples; however, it has major limitations that hinder performance. Typically, a large number of variables are assessed compared to relatively small sample sizes. In addition, it is difficult to identify biologically informative markers which have high predictive power [1-3]. Thus, the goal of this study was to develop a machine learning approach that is able to bridge classification accuracy and biological function.
Valuing Food Safety

This paper reviews methods for assessing the economic costs of foodborne disease and estimates the annual costs of salmonellosis and campylobacteriosis. These foodborne diseases cause intestinal disturbances in approximately 4.1 million Americans annually. Annual medical costs and lost wages from salmonellosis and campylobacteriosis are estimated at $1.4 to $2.6 billion. Inclusion of the economic value of leisure time lost and other factors would increase these cost estimates.
A new method of cyclic hoist scheduling for multi-recipe and multi-stage material handling processes

Abstract Multi-recipe and multi-stage material handling (M3H) processes are widely employed by various industries where complex multi-product manufacturing and assembly tasks are required. Cyclic hoist scheduling (CHS) could significantly improve the productivity of an M3H process. In this paper, a novel CHS methodology has been developed, which considers employing multiple sub-cycles to efficiently deal with job duality issues associated with multi-capacity processing units. The methodology contains three modeling and solving stages. In Stage I, a mixed-integer linear programing (MILP) model is developed to obtain the optimal solution of a sub-cycle CHS problem with the tolerance of job duality. In Stage II, the obtained solution will be examined to see if the job duality exists. Once a job duality issue is identified, another MILP model in Stage III will be performed to schedule an additional sub-cycle CHS problem, which targets the minimum slot usage discrepancy caused by the identified job duality. After that, the combined CHS solutions from the previous and additional sub-cycles will be fed back to Stage II for the job duality examination again. Iteratively checking and rescheduling between Stages II and III, job duality issues will be eventually eliminated and a full scheduling cycle coupling multiple sub-cycles will be accomplished. The methodology can significantly increase the CHS optimality for M3H processes, which are demonstrated by two case studies.
Response to Letter Regarding Article, "The Utility of Therapeutic Hypothermia for Post-Cardiac Arrest Syndrome Patients With an Initial Nonshockable Rhythm".

Thank you for the opportunity to respond to Dr Chan’s insightful comments regarding our article, “The Utility of Therapeutic Hypothermia for Post–Cardiac Arrest Syndrome Patients With an Initial Nonshockable Rhythm.”1 In this article, we used propensity score matching in a quasi-experimental design to mimic a randomized, controlled trial. Propensity score analyses have been both promoted and criticized in the literature, with a known limitation being the impact of unmeasured variables; however, there have been no published randomized trials of targeted temperature management versus no temperature management for patients with initial nonshockable rhythms because of various barriers. Our analysis, which included 519 patients with an initial nonshockable rhythm from the Penn Alliance for Therapeutic Hypothermia (PATH) Registry between 2000 and 2013, was …
STATISTICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF VELOCITY DISTRIBUTION AND LINEAR PSEUDO-VELOCITY LOGS

The pseudo-velocity log, or seismic approximate impedance log (SAIL), is an approximate solution to the inverse problem of a seismogram. It is a method for strati-graphic interpretation. So far, the methods applied in SAIL are all based on linear model in which each seismic trace must be expressed by convolving a seismic wavelet with a reflection coefficient sequence of a stratified medium. In this way, it is difficult to consider the effects as resulted from transmission coefficient and multiple reflections. From the viewpoint of wave theory, a non-linear model must be used in order to comply with physical laws. An important difference between a non-linear model and a linear one is that in the former, the reflection coefficient sequence must be replaced by a reflection transfer function expressed as an autoregressive component and a moving average component.In the non-linear model, the deconvolved seismogram Q(z) resulted from wavelet processing in SAIL is quite different from the reflection coefficient sequence #N(Z), sinceunless under the distortionless condition #=#', where # and #' are parameters for the statistical characteristics of velocity distribution in a stratified medium; N is the two-way time "depth" and rt is the reflection coefficient. In all other cases, distortions appearing in the inversion processing are inevitable. Therefore, the integral filtering operation performed in SAIL yields a simple relation between the relative velocity Vt+1/V1 and its true value vt+1/v1,Vt+1/V1=K2(vt+1/v1),t=1,2,#,N. where Kt is a distortion factorAnalyzing the distortion factor, we may conclude that distortion in SAIL depends upon not only the velocity distribution but also the characters of layer in the sedimentary section and the time length of seismic traces. In order to attain the distortionless condition Kt=1,t#1, the length (M-m) of the trace near a known borehole should be taken as long as possible since there is actually always a case for N (M-m).
A STUDY OF FRICTION MECHNISMS OF SURFACE COATINGS

A comprehensive concept for friction mechanisms of coated surfaces is presented. The friction mechanisms are first classified broadly into parameters of coated surfaces, tribochemical, tribophysical and material transfer mechanisms. The parameters of coated surfaces in this article are the hardness of coatings and substrate, the thickness of coatings, the roughness of substrate. The tribochemical mechnisms include the formation of microfilms on coatings and the oxidation of coatings. The mechanism of material transfer influences friction as a transferred film is formed on it.
Effects of feeding ractopamine to physically castrated barrows, immunologically castrated barrows, and gilts on carcass characteristics, cutting yields, and fresh meat quality

ABSTRACT Ninety carcasses were used to evaluate the effects of feeding ractopamine (RAC) to gilts, physically castrated (PC) barrows, and immunologically castrated (IC) barrows. Finishing diets (0, 5, and 7.5 mg/kg RAC) were fed for the last 26 d before slaughter starting 7 d after the second dose of Improvest. Carcasses from IC barrows had less ( P P = 0.02) than PC carcasses but had more ( P ≤ 0.04) fat than gilt carcasses. Feeding RAC increased ( P = 0.03) bone-in carcass yields by 1.4 percentage units. Gilt and IC carcasses had 2.0 percentage units greater ( P P = 0.01) bone-in lean yields, and 1.5 percentage units greater ( P = 0.04) bone-in carcass yields than PC carcasses. Loin firmness, pH, and marbling were unaffected by sex and RAC feeding ( P ≥ 0.22). Bellies from IC carcasses were 0.3 cm thinner ( P ≤ 0.05) than PC but 0.3 cm thicker ( P ≤ 0.05) than gilts. Flop distances of IC bellies were similar to gilt bellies but reduced ( P ≤ 0.05) 13 cm compared with PC bellies. Iodine values of IC bellies were similar to PC bellies but reduced ( P ≤ 0.05) 3 units compared with gilts. Feeding RAC did not affect ( P ≥ 0.23) fresh belly characteristics. Overall, immunological castration and feeding RAC were additive in terms of improving carcass cutability but had only minimal effects on fresh pork loin or belly quality.
Heritage Fetishism and the Heimat Imaginary

Placing the battles over Eisenach’s cityscape in broader context makes clear that, although they may at first glance look like petty squabbles between local rivals, their implications are quite profound. At the same time, it does not require a large analytical leap to see that these battles are about national belonging and memory, especially in light of the obvious ways in which Germanness remains burdened by some of the nation’s pasts—especially for East Germans.
A survey of paediatricians on the use of electrocardiogram for pre-participation sports screening.

Aim The aim of the present study was to determine general paediatrician knowledge, practices, and attitudes towards electrocardiogram (ECG) screening in school athletes during pre-participation screening exam (PPSE). Methods Paediatricians affiliated with a tertiary children’s hospital completed a survey about ECGs for PPSE. Results In total, 205/498 (41%) responded; 92% of the paediatricians did not include an ECG as part of PPSE; 56% were aware of a case in which a student athlete in their own community had died of sudden unexplained death; 4% had an athlete in their practice die. Only 16% of paediatricians perform all 12 American Heart Association recommended elements of the PPSE. If any of these screening elements are abnormal, 69% obtain an ECG, 36% an echocardiogram, and 30% restrict patients from sports activity; 73% of them refer the patient to a cardiologist. Conclusion Most of the general paediatricians surveyed did not currently perform ECGs for PPSE. In addition, there was a low rate of adherence to performing the 12 screening elements recommended by the American Heart Association. They have trouble obtaining timely, accurate ECG interpretations, worry about potential unnecessary exercise restrictions, and cost-effectiveness. The practical hurdles to ECG implementation emphasise the need for a fresh look at PPSE, and not just ECG screening. Improvements in ECG performance/interpretation would be necessary for ECGs to be a useful part of PPSE.