cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A flexible, robust microbead-based assay for quantification and normalization of target protein concentrations

Abstract Although there are many methods for quantifying the concentration of specific proteins in samples, current techniques are technically challenging or do not easily lend themselves to normalization. Here, we describe a microbead-based assay for quantifying specific protein concentration(s) that is high-throughput, inexpensive, simple-to-use, and intrinsically incorporates normalization against the sample total protein content. This assay, termed the FRANC assay, exploits high affinity biotin-streptavidin binding to couple sample proteins to streptavidin-labelled magnetic microbeads. Proteins are then antibody-probed, followed by labeling of proteins on the microbead with fluorescent dye, and flow cytometry-based analysis. The FRANC assay demonstrates detection limits for target proteins in the femtogram range, with a linear range up to as much as 10 ng. Normalization of target protein concentrations resulted in an 80% reduction in variability as compared to non-normalized measurements. We conclude that the FRANC assay offers attractive advantages over current methods for quantifying specific protein(s) in samples.
The evolving role of imaging for small bowel neuroendocrine neoplasms: estimated impact of imaging and disease-free survival in a retrospective observational study

To determine how small bowel neuroendocrine neoplasms (SBNEN’s) are diagnosed and examine the effect of CT enterography (CTE) on diagnosis and rates of disease-free survival. Histopathologically-confirmed SBNEN’s diagnosed at our institution between 1996 and 2016 were identified. Clinical presentation, radiology, endoscopy, surgery, and pathology reports were reviewed and compared between consecutive 5-year periods. Of the 178 SBNEN initially diagnosed at our institution, the incidence increased 12-fold from 9 (during 1996–2000) to 114 (during 2011–2016). Comparing the first 5 to the last 5 years, GI bleeding and abdominal pain increased significantly as indications (with both increasing from 0 to > 25%, p ≤ 0.023). Initial diagnosis by radiology increased 2-fold [from 33% (n = 3) to 66% (n = 75); p = 0.263]. Detection of a small bowel mass and the suggestion that SBNEN was present varied significantly between imaging modalities (p < 0.0001; CTE − 95% (52/55) and 91% (50/55) vs. abdominal CT 45% (37/85) and 35% (29/85), respectively). Recurrence rates increased with SBNEN size (p = 0.012; e.g., of SBNEN diagnosed by endoscopy, 18% of SBNEN measuring 0.6 ± 0.3 cm recurred vs. 75% measuring 3.7 ± 1.0 cm). Rates of disease-free survival, and the incidence of local and liver metastases were decreased when tumors were first identified by CTE rather than other CT/MR imaging modalities (p = 0.0034, 0.0475, and 0.0032, respectively). There has been a dramatic increase in SBNENs detected by CTE and endoscopy over the last 20 years. SBNEN’s detected by CTE and small tumors detected at endoscopy have longer disease-free survival after surgical resection.
Vapor Deposition of Functional Porous Polymer Membranes

The fabrication of porous polymer membranes is currently dominated by solution-phase processing techniques. We recently developed a versatile solventless method to deposit porous polymer membranes. In this paper, we will review the mechanism that governs the fabrication process, the advantages and capabilities of the technique, and potential applications for these membranes. In the fabrication process, low substrate temperatures are used to transition the monomer vapor into solid microstructures which are then polymerized using a thermally cleavable vapor-phase initiator. This paper covers the effect of processing parameters such as time and temperature on the molecular weight distribution of the polymer and the porosity of the membranes. We will discuss several methods for patterning and cross-linking the membranes, and we will demonstrate that asymmetric membranes with varying chemical functionalities and thicknesses can be fabricated. Finally, we will review potential applications for these membranes.
The past and future technology in classroom management and school discipline: A systematic review

Abstract Schools have marched into the digital age–but have classroom management and school discipline followed suit? Analyzing the content and methodologies of over two decades of empirical research in ERIC, this systematic literature review describes how the field has conceived of technology’s roles in classroom management and school discipline. These roles include training teachers, supporting educators’ day-to-day practices, and promoting self-discipline or self-regulation among students. A variety of tools were applied, including but not limited to videos, 3D simulations, and web-based apps. Strengths and limitations of this body of scholarship are discussed, including suggestions for keeping pace with emerging practices.
Nutritional Intake and Energy Availability of Collegiate Distance Runners

Objective: Research investigating the dietary habits of distance runners has presented varying results. Proper dietary intake appears to enhance distance running performance and low dietary intake ...
Design of sensor networks for the long-term monitoring of geological sequestration

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on the design of sensor networks, as a part of development of a prototypical field-deployable sensor/tracer technology for monitoring the rate of leakage of geologically sequestered CO2. The primary focus is on conservative–tracer technology for immediate leak detection. A design methodology for the sensor networks is developed based on predictive evaluation of CO2 and tracer leakage from the geological reservoir via different pathways, the subsequent transport below and above ground, and risk and consequence modeling, using the Mountaineer site data as the principal input. The project consists of three tasks: (1) identify suitable tracers and sensors, and develop methods to predict and interpret the likely behavior of a field-monitoring network for geologically sequestered CO2 based on such tracers and sensors, (2) develop, to the proof-of-principle stage, novel chemical sensor technology for tracer detection in a field-deployable format, and (3) develop, to the proof-of-principle stage, novel radiological sensor technology for tracer detection in a field-deployable format.
Humanitarianism and Security: An Introduction

In this chapter, the author provides an overview of the security and political context of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). He highlights and questions the narrative that has for years characterized the security assessment of the African continent. Ilunga argues that insecurity in the DRC should be assessed by taking into consideration the political history and sociological background of Africa and the DRC. He contends that the restoration of peace, the promotion of security, and the effectiveness of humanitarian assistance in the DRC depend on how peacebuilders and lawmakers critically analyze and learn from factors that were instrumental to the stability and the security of the continent and the country prior to the era of colonization.
Hemoglobin Petah Tikva (a 110 Ala → Asp): A New Unstable Variant With α-Thalassemia-Like Expression

Abstract Hemoglobin Petah Tikva, a new unstable α-Chain structural variant, was identified in two unrelated children whose families are from the Iraqi Jewish community of Baghdad. Both children have α-thalassemia. with hematologic features of mild HbH disease. The abnormal hemoglobin from the two patients did not separate from hemoglobin A by electrophoresis or chromatography, but the mutant α-chain emerged ahead of αA in carboxymethylcellulose column chromatography, allowing it to be isolated in pure form. Hemoglobin Petah Tikva was unstable in solution and could also be isolated by isopropanol precipitation. Structural analyses indicate that the variant α-Chains contain a normal number of amino acids and have a substitution of Ala → Asp at α 110. Each of the patients with HbH disease has one parent with hematologic findings and globin chain synthesis ratios that are characteristic of α-thalassemia trait, and a hematologically normal parent who is a carrier of the variant α-chain of Hb Petah Tikva. The patients each appear to be doubly heterozygous for α-thal-1 and for the structurally abnormal hemoglobin. The mutant α-chains of Hb Petah Tikva were synthesized by reticulocytes of the heterozygous carriers, but only traces of αPT globin could be detected in their blood, suggesting that the abnormal α-chains underwent postsynthetic degradation or precipitation in these individuals. In the patients with Hb Petah Tikva in combination with α-thalassemia, the normal and mutant α-chains were synthesized by bone marrow erythroid cells at rates proportional to their concentrations in the blood, but there was a substantially decreased rate of synthesis of the variant α-chain by their blood reticulocytes. The α-thalassemia-like expression of Hb Petah Tikva appears to result from instability of the abnormal α-chain as well as from the premature termination of its synthesis during erythroid cell maturation.
Sexual health after vaginoplasty: A systematic review.

BACKGROUND Vaginoplasty is a gender-affirming procedure for transgender and gender diverse (TGD) patients who experience gender incongruence. This procedure reduces mental health concerns and enhances patients' quality of life. A systematic review investigating the sexual health outcomes of vaginoplasty has not been performed. OBJECTIVES To investigate sexual health after gender-affirming vaginoplasty for TGD patients. DATA SOURCES MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and PsycINFO databases were searched, unrestricted by dates or study design. METHODS We included primary literature that incorporated TGD patients, reported sexual health outcomes after vaginoplasty intervention and were available in English. Outcomes included at least one of these sexual health parameters: sexual desire, arousal, sensation, activity, secretions, satisfaction, pleasure, orgasm, interferences, or aids. RESULTS Our search yielded 140 studies with 12 different vaginoplasty surgical techniques and 6,953 patients. The majority of these studies were cross-section or retrospective cohort observational studies (66%). 17.4%-100% (median 79.7%) of patients (n = 2,384) were able to orgasm postoperatively regardless of revision or primary vaginoplasty techniques. Female Sexual Function Index was the most used standardized questionnaire (17 studies, ranging from 16.9 to 28.6). 64%-98% (median 81%) of patients were satisfied with their general sexual satisfaction. The most common interference of sexual activity was dyspareunia. CONCLUSIONS The heterogenous methods of measuring sexual outcomes reflect the difficulty in comparing single-center surgical outcomes, encouraging the need for a standardized and validated metric for reporting sexual health after vaginoplasty for TGD patients. The most common sexual health parameter reported is sexual activity while therapeutic aids and pleasure were the least reported parameters. Future studies are needed to improve and expand methods of measuring sexual health, including prospective studies, validated questionnaires, and inclusive metrics. Systematic review registration number: PROSPERO 01/01/2021: CRD42021224014.
Lyme Neuroborreliosis Presenting with a Cytotoxic Lesion of the Corpus Callosum, Diffuse Cerebral Edema, and Multifocal Infarcts (5155)

Objective: We describe a patient with Lyme neuroborreliosis who presented with encephalopathy and signs of elevated intracranial pressure. Imaging demonstrated diffuse cerebral edema and diffusion restriction in the corpus callosum and bilateral centrum semiovale. Background: Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness caused by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi. Nervous system involvement, or lyme neuroborreliosis (LNB), can present with meningoencephalitis, cranial neuropathy, polyradiculitis, myelopathy, or cerebral vasculitis. Callosal lesions are not typically seen but have been reported in the literature. Design/Methods: N/A Results: A 19-year-old male developed progressively worsening headache and vomiting for 2 weeks. He became febrile to 101.3 °F and encephalopathic prior to presenting for evaluation. CT of the head demonstrated diffuse cerebral edema. CSF analysis showed a lymphocytic pleocytosis of 355 WBC/μL and elevated protein of 85 mg/dL. He recalled removing a tick attached to his neck 51 days prior to symptom onset. Initial serum lyme antibody testing on presentation was negative. MRI brain on presentation showed a small focus of diffusion restriction in the right centrum semiovale as well as diffuse leptomeningeal enhancement. MRI brain on hospital day 10 showed new areas of diffusion restriction in the splenium of the corpus callosum and left centrum semiovale. Repeat serum lyme antibody testing on hospital day 13 was positive. Confirmatory western blot was inconclusive but B. burgdorferi C6 peptide was positive. The patient was treated with a 28-day course of ceftriaxone and critical supportive care. He suffered significant vision loss secondary to prolonged bilateral papilledema from elevated ICP, but otherwise made a good recovery. Conclusions: Lyme disease can have a widely variable neurological presentation, making diagnosis challenging at times. We present an atypical case of LNB illustrating that a high index of suspicion should be maintained in cases of undifferentiated meningoencephalitis and repeating lyme serology should be considered when supported by a strong clinical history. Disclosure: Dr. Jiang has nothing to disclose. Dr. Rayi has nothing to disclose.
Speckle Interferometry in Astrometry

Speckle interferometry, which is characterised by diffraction limited resolution and enhanced accuracy, offers a wide range of possibilities for astrometry. Speckle applications are limited by the constraint of isoplanicity with the result that only differential rather than absolute astrometry can be carried out with the technique. Nevertheless, potentially important applications exist in solar system and stellar astrometry, but speckle interferometry has so far made significant contributions only in binary star astrometry.
Modified all digital timing tracking loop for wireless applications

In this paper, a novel architecture for a fine timing-tracking loop is presented. The loop is a second order feedback loop utilizing an interpolating filter to relax the requirements on the analog to digital section of the receiver. A complete analysis of the interpolating filter, loop filter along with a system simulation based on direct sequence spread spectrum are presented.
p-n Junction Lasers for Communication Systems

Secure ground-to-ground communication links, communication from satellites and space probes, and coherent optical logic in high-speed integrated computers lie within the realm of semiconductor single lasers or laser arrays. Lasers of this type have the advantage of extremely small size, ease of direct modulation, and high efficiency. Ruggedness and simplicity of pumping promise high reliability for military electronics. A discussion is presented on design considerations, technological problems, and performance of p-n junction lasers for short range communication systems. After a brief review of fundamental principles for lasing action in semiconductors, an account is presented of previously unpublished technological procedures required to achieve GaAs laser diodes with high output in the coherent beam at a high pulse rate required to operate a pulse code, modulated voice transmission system. A description is given of wafer preparation, diffusion of extremely planar p-n junctions, and the formation of ohmic, low-resistance area contacts. Measurement techniques to determine the performance characteristics of these lasers with respect to such factors as threshold current density, maximum output power, external quantum efficiency, spectral distribution, and linewidth of emitted radiation are discussed.
The differential role of spinal MHC class II and cellular adhesion molecules in peripheral inflammatory versus neuropathic pain in rodents

The present study was designed to determine the role of central expression of immunoregulatory molecules in the development and maintenance of allodynia following a peripheral inflammatory insult or nerve transection. Differential spinal expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II, platelet-endothelial cellular adhesion molecule (PECAM), intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM) and CD4 was observed in the two injury models. Intraplantar zymosan produced transient allodynia and only PECAM and ICAM immunoreactivity. In contrast, persistent mechanical allodynia and enhanced spinal PECAM, ICAM, MHC class II and CD4 immunoreactivity was observed following peripheral nerve transection. MHC class II knockout mice exhibited attenuated allodynia following spinal nerve transection as compared to wild-type control mice. These findings suggest that central neuroimmune activation may contribute to the maintenance of neuropathic pain following peripheral L5 spinal nerve transection but not following a peripheral inflammatory insult.
COBALT FURNACE SLAG, A LATENT HYDRAULIC BINDER

Abstract Cobalt furnace slag yields medium strength cements by addition of lime or portland cement clinker in small amount. The hydration can be accelerated by addition of sodium sulfate. Cements of sufficient quality for general use was obtained with this material. The compressive and tensile strengths measured with cobalt slag concrete may justify their use as replacement for cement portland.
The apparent absence of chemical sensitivity in the 4d and 5d X-ray absorption spectroscopy of uranium compounds

Abstract Recently, X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and related derivative measurements have been used to demonstrate that the Pu 5f states are strongly relativistic and have a 5f occupation number near 5. Owing to the success in this regime, it has been argued that the XAS measurements should be a powerful tool to probe 5f occupation variation, both as a function of elemental nature (actinide atomic number) and as a function of physical and chemical perturbation, e.g., oxidation state. It will be shown here that XAS and its related measurements fail in this latter aspect for a wide variety of uranium compounds and materials. Possible causes will be discussed.
788-3 Effect of Body Composition on Exercise Performance in Patients with Heart Failure

Changes in fat and skeletal muscle Volume may contribute to the exercise intolerance reported by patients with heart failure. To test this hypothesis, we measured hemodynamic and ventilatory respon...
Immune complexes bound to the primate erythrocyte complement receptor (CR1) via anti-CR1 mAbs are cleared simultaneously with loss of CR1 in a concerted reaction in a rhesus monkey model.

Abstract In the circulation of primates, C3b-opsonized immune complexes (IC) bound to erythrocyte (E) CR1 are taken to the liver and spleen where IC are removed and destroyed without lysis or sequestration of E. Individuals with diseases associated with IC processing often have decreased E CR1 levels, and in previous primate animal models of IC disease, E CR1 was shown to be reduced, but the relationship between IC processing and CR1 loss remained to be clarified. We have developed a simple model to study this question. In naive (nonimmunized) rhesus monkeys, E-bound mouse anti-CR1 mAbs (1500 IgG/E) are not rapidly cleared from the circulation. Infusion of monkey anti-mouse IgG leads to rapid indirect binding of this second antibody to E CR1. Subsequently, in what appears to be a concerted reaction, CR1-bound nascent IC are rapidly cleared from the circulation and CR1 is removed from E at the same rate. Clearance of bound IC and loss of CR1 were both independently followed by RIA. Imaging studies localized the cleared anti-CR1 mAbs to the liver. Western blots indicated that the loss of CR1 was not due to a conformational change, and E CR1 levels returned to normal in 2–3 weeks, suggesting that the return was associated with synthesis of new E. Our findings suggest that the key step in the clearance mechanism requires recognition (possibly by Fc receptors) of IC-like material associated with E CR1, and this leads to loss of CR1 and uptake of the CR1-IC substrate by liver phagocytic cells.
Diastolic Heart Sounds and Filling Waves in Coronary Artery Disease

One hundred thirty selected patieints with chest pain syndromes were studied by apex- and phonocardiography as well as by cardiac catheterization, selective cine coronary arteriography, and cine left ventriculography. Ninety-three patients had coronary artery disease; 37 did not. Abnormal graphic studies were found in 42 patients with coronary artery disease and three patients with normal coronary arteriograms. These abnormalities correlated well with the presence of elevated left ventricular end-diastolic pressure. Third heart sounds were found less frequently than fourth heart sounds and/or abnormal apexcardiographic a waves, but when present were usually associated with a depressed cardiac index. Diagnostically, over 90% of all patients with chest pain who exhibited graphic abnormalities had significant coronary atherosclerosis. Normal graphic studies did not rule out coronary artery disease, but did indicate adequate left ventricular function since only 5% of patients with normal graphic studies had e...
Strong to weak coupling transition in low misorientation angle thin film YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7 − x bicrystals

Detailed transport measurements were made of ${\mathrm{YBa}}_{2}{\mathrm{Cu}}_{3}{\mathrm{O}}_{7\ensuremath{-}x}$ thin-film [001] tilt bicrystals with misorientation angles of 3\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}, 5\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}, 7\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}, 10\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}, 15\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}, and 20\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}, encompassing the angular regime where the transition from strong to weak coupling occurs. The study includes measurements of intragrain and intergrain extended voltage-current characteristics in applied magnetic fields that range from zero to well above the irreversibility field. The results show that the strong-to-weak coupling transition is progressive at 77 K, occurring at misorientation angles between 7\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} and 10\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} in zero field, and between 10\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} and 15\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} in higher magnetic fields. The shapes of the voltage-current characteristics of the 7\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} [001] bicrystals and the ratio of the inter- and intragranular critical current densities are particularly sensitive to individual sample preparation conditions, suggesting that substrate-film interdiffusion along the grain-boundary dislocations is controlling the effective size of the superconducting channels between the dislocation cores. The linear decline of the intergranular critical current density with misorientation angle predicted from present dislocation core overlap models is not found, showing that additional features of the grain-boundary nanostructure and the mechanism of intergranular current flow need to be invoked in order to explain transport across low-angle ${\mathrm{YBa}}_{2}{\mathrm{Cu}}_{3}{\mathrm{O}}_{7\ensuremath{-}x}$ grain boundaries.
Where do College Drinkers Draw the Line?: A Qualitative Study

Alcohol use among college students has received nationwide recognition as a public health concern. The primary aim of this study was to explore students' opinions of when drinking "crosses the line" from acceptable to unacceptable. This study used qualitative methods to: (a) examine unappealing aspects of drinking by relationship type (potential dating partner, friend, self), and (b) determine whether this differs by gender. Seventy-eight interviews were conducted with college students who violated campus-alcohol policy. The semi-structured interview included open-ended questions related to reactions to other's excessive drinking. Qualitative analyses revealed that college males and females find lack of control as unappealing, including lack of physical, verbal, and sexual control. More females than males indicated negative perceptions of same-sex friends and self who displayed poor sexual control. Future research might also consider integration of themes in measures of negative expectancies and consequences to more accurately capture unappealing aspects of college drinking behavior.
A challenge to Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander scholars: what the research literature teaches us about our work

What do we currently know, in light of conceptual, empirical, and applied studies, about the status of educational research on Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders? And why is this knowing important? This article proposes that illuminating the themes of what has already been examined might help policymakers, researchers, educational leaders and teachers to better negotiate the tensions of school context, content, and culture. Hence, it examines current research literature, which leads to questions about academic disparity, challenges of methodological support, and areas for further teaching and learning scholarship.
Definition of venous reflux in lower-extremity veins

Abstract Purpose This prospective study was designed to determine the upper limits of normal for duration and maximum velocity of retrograde flow (RF) in lower extremity veins. Methods Eighty limbs in 40 healthy subjects and 60 limbs in 45 patients with chronic venous disease were examined with duplex scanning in the standing and supine positions. Each limb was assessed for reflux at 16 venous sites, including the common femoral, deep femoral, and proximal and distal femoral veins; proximal and distal popliteal veins; gastrocnemial vein; anterior and posterior tibial veins; peroneal vein; greater saphenous vein, at the saphenofemoral junction, thigh, upper calf, and lower calf; and lesser saphenous vein, at the saphenopopliteal junction and mid-calf. Perforator veins along the course of these veins were also assessed. In the healthy volunteers, 1553 vein segments were assessed, including 480 superficial vein segments, 800 deep vein segments, and 273 perforator vein segments; and in the patients, 1272 vein segments were assessed, including 360 superficial vein segments, 600 deep vein segments, and 312 perforator vein segments. Detection and measurement of reflux were performed at duplex scanning. Standard pneumatic cuff compression pressure was used to elicit reflux. Duration of RF and peak vein velocity were measured immediately after release of compression. Results Duration of RF in the superficial veins ranged from 0 to 2400 ms (mean, 210 ms), and was less than 500 ms in 96.7% of these veins. In the perforator veins, regardless of location, outward flow ranged from 0 to 760 ms (mean, 170 ms), and was less than 350 ms in 97% of these veins. In the deep veins, RF ranged from 0 to 2600 ms. Mean RF in the deep femoral veins and calf veins was 190 ms, and was less than 500 ms in 97.6% of these veins. In the femoropopliteal veins, mean RF was 390 ms, and ranged from 510 to 2600 ms in 21 of 400 segments; however, RF was less than 990 ms in 99% of these veins. Duration of RF was significantly longer in all three veins systems in patients ( P P = .002). Thirty-seven vein segments (2.4%) had RF greater than 500 ms in the supine position, compared with less than 500 ms in 22 of these vein segments (59%) in the standing position. Of the 48 vein segments (3.1%) with RF greater than 500 ms in the standing position, RF was less than 500 ms in 6 of these vein segments (13%) in the supine position. Similar observations were noted in patient veins. There was no association between RF and peak vein velocity. Peak vein velocity had no significance in determining reflux. Conclusions The cutoff value for reflux in the superficial and deep calf veins is greater than 500 ms. However, the reflux cutoff value for the femoropopliteal veins should be greater than 1000 ms. Outward flow in the perforating veins should be considered abnormal at greater than 350 ms. Reflux testing should be performed with the patient standing.
Effect of argon laser irradiation on rabbit aortic smooth muscle: evidence for endothelium independent contraction and relaxation

To study the effect of argon laser irradiation on vascular smooth muscle reactivity, ring segments of rabbit thoracic aorta were mounted isometrically in Krebs bicarbonate buffer. Laser irradiation was performed via a 200-micron core optical fibre interfaced with an argon ion gas laser. Laser irradiation at powers greater than 1.0 watt (W) (n=34) produced contraction in each case, regardless of the duration of exposure. Conversely, irradiation at powers less than 0.1 W (n=41) consistently produced relaxation. When the power employed ranged from 0.1 to 1.0 W (n=100), the typical response consisted of a combination of low amplitude contraction and relaxation. At each power level, the responses observed were independent of the presence or absence of intact endothelium, assessed functionally by the response to acetylcholine and anatomically by scanning electron microscopy. Recordings of tissue temperature profiles performed during continuous-wave laser irradiation suggest that the findings observed in this study may be explained by a combination of heat induced contraction and light induced relaxation. At powers greater than 1.0 W, heat generated by laser irradiation is predominant, causing contraction. At powers less than 0.1 W, light predominates over heat, causing relaxation. When the power range is intermediate between these values, the heterogeneous response recorded reflects the combination of light and heat. In all cases, contraction and relaxation are endothelium independent.
Peptide hormone binding to receptors: a review of direct studies in vitro.

B ERSON AND YALOW hardly ever worked directly on receptors, but they did make many key contributions that have led to the development of this area. It will be clear that scientists now working with peptide hormone receptors have appropriated directly methods and technical approaches that were devised by Berson and Yalow for radioimmunoassay. Further, Berson and Yalow helped create and formulate concepts and ideas-for example the unity of the peptide hormones-that have led to the swift spread of receptor studies from one hormone to another. In reading further, much of the debt to Berson and Yalow will be obvious, while their other contributions are more subtle but equally important. I shall try to highlight these in the last section of the paper. For a hormone to activate a target tissue, it must first bind to some constituent of the cell. This first step in polypeptide hormone action had been studied indirectly for many years by measuring some effect of the hormone, but it was not until 1969 that this key step was measured directly. In that year two groups. using ““I-ACTH and “‘1-angiotensin, respectively, demonstrated methods that were applicable generally for the direct study of the interaction of peptide hormones and their specific receptors on target cells.’ ’ The approach has been extended by dozens of laboratories to many other peptide hormones (Table I), and an enormous amount of new direct information has been gathered about hormone-receptor interactions including the number of receptor sites per cell. their affinity and specificity, the speed of hormone binding and dissociation, measurements of hormone in plasma and demonstrations of alterations in receptors in association with disease states in animals and man.
The Engaged Observer: Portrait of a Professor of Religion

The faculty committee which issued in 1935 the document which subsequently led to the establishment of the Department of Religion at Princeton thought it crucial to distinguish between the study and the practice of religion., A generation later Professor Robert N. Bellah openly confessed that he was not afraid of "blurring the boundary line between religion and the teaching of religion" and that he considered teaching religion to be "itself a kind of religious discipline."2 These disparate positions suggest much about the development of religious studies in recent years and pinpoint the peculiarly perplexed and potent position in which the professor of religion finds himself. The Princeton faculty committee position characterizes the age of what I shall call "the professorial problem" and Professor Bellah's position that of the age of "the guru problem."
Prophylaxis and treatment of cytomegalovirus disease in recipients of solid organ transplants: current approach and future challenges.

Purpose of review Cytomegalovirus infection is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in solid-organ transplant recipients, in terms of cytomegalovirus disease itself and the associated outcomes of organ rejection and death. This review focuses on recent literature concerning prevention and treatment of cytomegalovirus disease in this population. Recent findings Two major strategies for the prevention of cytomegalovirus infection in solid-organ transplant recipients – preemptive and prophylactic treatment – are reviewed. Both strategies result in a lower incidence of cytomegalovirus disease when compared to a ‘wait and treat’ approach, and are generally considered cost-effective. Neither prophylaxis nor preemption has yet been shown to be superior. Newer trials are also reviewed, which are beginning to evaluate protocols of preemption or prophylaxis representative of current practice, as well as to explore alternative dosing strategies, the benefits of cytomegalovirus immune globulin, and the potential benefit of a longer course of prophylaxis. Concerns for the selection of ganciclovir-resistant strains of cytomegalovirus are also addressed. Summary The consensus is that there is benefit for the treatment of solid-organ transplant patients with an antiviral agent before clinical evidence of cytomegalovirus disease. So far, there has been no demonstration of the superiority of prophylactic or preemptive regimens, nor has the exact nature and dosing of the oral antiviral agent of choice been established.
Forcing mycoplasma mobile into line.

Mycoplasmas are parasitic bacteria lacking a cell wall but possessing an internal cytoskeletal structure. In this issue, Miyata and coworkers report measurements of the force-velocity relation of Mycoplasma mobile gliding on a glass substrate at different temperatures (3). Protein A-conjugated polystyrene beads coated with antibodies raised against M. mobile proteins were attached to the tail ends of gliding bacteria. The hydrodynamic drag of beads on cells gliding upstream against fluid flow was used to define the force-velocity relation. In addition, the beads were used as handles to stall bacteria by an optical laser trap, with displacement of the bead in the trap defining the stall force. The hydrodynamic drag to movement against fluid flow exerted by the beads could be precisely estimated. Miyata et al. found linear force velocity relations, a temperature-independent stall force of 26 pN, and speeds up to 3.3 μm/s at 27.5°C at zero force. This study adds a new dimension to the existing literature on gliding motility. The Berg laboratory has pioneered the development of laser trap technology for analysis of molecular motor mechanics (1). Now, innovative application of this methodology to Mycoplasma gliding motility defines the force generation capability of this motility form with a precision not possible with simpler assays. The data set important constraints that should both spur attempts to discover the thus-far mysterious molecular machinery and provide criteria that candidate molecules, once identified, will ultimately need to satisfy. Interestingly, the bacteria orient in response to flow and move upstream in a second or so. When flow is turned off, they disorient on a similar time scale. Video documentation is available from the sixth BLAST meeting review (2) video link (http://stock.cabm.rutgers.edu/mem/stock/blast_19.html#A). Could stress-induced assembly and disassembly of cytoskeletal structure play a role here, as in actin-based amoeboid motility, coupled to force generation by a molecular motor? Members of the actin or microtubule-based cytoskeletal motor protein families have not been found in bacteria so far. However, particularly in pathogenic bacteria with long-standing associations with eukaryotic hosts, molecules are being uncovered that either interact with known cytoskeletal elements or behave as cytoskeletal analogs (4, 5). Miyata et al. note that the filamentous structure seen in Mycoplasma by electron microscopy is associated with the adhesion protein and, thus, may provide a possible scaffold for the substantial forces documented by their work. If so, the mechanisms that underlie prokaryotic gliding motility and eukaryotic amoeboid motility could turn out to be more similar than previously imagined.
The Heisenberg uncertainty principle and the halting problem

In this paper it is suggested that the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle, normally applied to physical systems, can be applied directly to show that the Halting Problem is unsolvable. Although the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle has appeared in the context of software engineering before [3] it is used in analogy there. As far as the author can determine, this would be the first direct application of the Uncertainty Principle to the solution of a problem in computer science.
Self-Modification of Spontaneous Emission by Inverse Opal Silica Photonic Crystals

Modification of the photoluminescence emission of sol−gel-derived silica by three-dimensional photonic crystal effects is reported. Three-dimensionally ordered macroporous (3DOM) silica inverse opal materials prepared by polystyrene colloidal crystal templating, using the sol−gel method, exhibit broadband blue emission under UV excitation. 3DOM silica materials also possess a photonic stop band in the visible range of their optical spectra, with a controllable position dependent on several factors, including the macropore size, wall thickness, and refractive index contrast between the walls and the void-filling material. Tuning the photonic stop band of 3DOM silica to overlap with the photoluminescence emission band leads to competitive Bragg diffraction and electronic emission processes, resulting in a modified emission spectrum with a depression correlating with the spectral position of the stop band. Solvent-filling of the 3DOM silica changes the refractive index contrast and shifts the photonic stop b...
Self-Organization of Anatase TiO2 Nanoparticles to Regular Shape Clusters

Self-organization of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles to regular shape clusters (regular triangle, hexagon, pyramid, and rhomb) has been observed. The accumulation of TiO2 nanoparticles to clusters occurs during transformation of TiO2 nanotubes to nanoparticles, which is achieved by annealing of electrochemically grown TiO2 nanotubes in fluorine ambient. Size of clusters varied in range 0.5−30 μm, which is determined by the time elapsed from the start of the nanotube-nanoparticle transformation. Systematic studies of cluster size and density have been done on preparation conditions that revealed, in particular, that accumulation of nanoparticles to clusters occurs when nanoparticle size is less than 100 nm. The origin of this interesting phenomenon is discussed.
Luminescence properties and related photochemistry of 4-amino-2-methoxypyrimidine.

— The luminescence properties of 4-amino-2-methoxypyrimidine, I, have been studied in several solvents. These studies indicate that the photochemical reaction of I with dihydrogen phosphate buffer proceeds via an intermediate derived from the fluorescent singlet excited state of I.
Directed Obligations and the Trouble with Deathbed Promises

On some popular accounts of promissory obligation, a promise creates an obligation to the person to whom the promise is made (the ‘promisee’). On such accounts, the wrong involved in breaking a promise is a wrong committed against a promisee. I will call such accounts ‘directed obligation’ accounts of promissory obligation. While I concede that directed obligation accounts make good sense of many of our promissory obligations, I aim to show that directed obligation accounts, at least in their current forms, cannot accommodate an obligation to keep deathbed promises. While the term 'deathbed promise' refers to any promise made to a person who is dying, I focus specifically on deathbed promises which will not, or even cannot, be fulfilled until after the promisee's death. In what follows, I examine two prominent types of directed obligation account: (i) rights-based accounts, which argue that a promissory obligation is a directed obligation because a promise gives the promisee certain rights, and (ii) harm accounts, which argue that a promissory obligation is a directed obligation because a promise puts the promisee in a special position to be harmed. I argue that neither version can accommodate an obligation to keep deathbed promises.
A Quantitative Analysis of Left Ventricular Myocardial Function in the Intact, Sedated Dog

Instantaneous contractile element velocity was calculated from left ventricular pressure and its first derivative during isovolumic left ventricular contractions produced by sudden balloon occlusion of the ascending aorta during diastole in closed-chest, sedated dogs. Wall tension was derived from ventricular pressure and volume, the latter being obtained from the pressure-volume relation of the arrested ventricle. During isovolumic contractions, there was an inverse curvilinear relation between tension and velocity, except at the onset of contraction and near peak tension. Increasing diastolic ventricular volume shifted the tension-velocity relations to the right, with increase in mean total isovolumic tension from 188 to 471 g/cm 2 , but without an obvious change in extrapolation to maximum velocity, which averaged 3.0 circumferences/sec. End-diastolic pressure-tension and circumference-tension relations indicated that active tension development continued to increase up to the maximum measured enddiastolic pressures of approximately 20 mm Hg. The normalized data, pooled from 15 animals, showed little scatter in the data for tension and velocity. It is concluded that the contractile properties of left ventricular muscle in the intact, sedated dog may be meaningfully described by tension-velocity relations obtained from single isovolumic contractions. The responses of the intact ventricle to increased diastolic volume and digitalis glycosides are analogous to those of isolated cardiac muscle. The small variability in the normalized tension-velocity relations in the normal dog suggests that it will also be possible to characterize abnormal left ventricular function with this approach.
Fluorescence studies of electrospun MEH-PPV/PEO nanofibers

Abstract We report a study of the fluorescence properties of the conjugated polymer poly [2-methoxy-5-(2′-ethyl hexyloxy)- p -phenylene vinylene] (MEH-PPV) and polyethylene oxide (PEO) nanofibers. MEH-PPV/PEO nanofibers with different compositions have been fabricated by the electrospinning technique. The fluorescence spectra of the nanofibers show that the emission shoulder at ∼630 nm blue-shifts ∼45 nm, whereas the main emission peak around 590 nm blue-shifts ∼15 nm with decreasing concentration of MEH-PPV in the nanofiber. In addition, confocal microscopic studies of a single MEH-PPV/PEO electrospun nanofiber indicate that the fluorescence spectra of the nanofiber do not show any polarization dependence. The results are discussed in terms of the aggregation of MEH-PPV in an inert matrix.
Non-hypoxic stabilization of HIF-Iα during coordinated interaction between Akt and angiopoietin-1 enhances endothelial commitment of bone marrow stem cells

We previously reported that mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) co-expressing Akt and angiopoietin-1 (Ang-1) preserved infarcted heart function via angiomyogenesis. The present study determined the mechanism of co-overexpression of Akt and Ang-1 in promoting endothelial commitment of MSC. The cells were transduced with vectors encoding for Akt (AktMSC), Ang-1 (Ang-1MSC), and both Akt and Ang-1 (AAMSC) using Empty vector transduced MSC (EmpMSC) as control. Molecular studies indicated a coordinated interaction between Akt and Ang-1 in AAMSC and led to non-hypoxic stabilization of hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-Iα) which accentuated under 4-h anoxia. We also observed HIF-Iα dependent induction of hemeoxygenase-1, endothelial specific markers and VEGF in AAMSC. Vascular commitment of AAMSC was confirmed by immunostaining, Western blotting and flow cytometry for endothelial specific early and late markers including Flt1, Flk1, Tie2, VCAM-1, and von Willebrand Factor-VIII (vWF-VIII) in HIF-Iα dependent fashion besides exhibiting higher emigrational activity and angiogenesis in vitro. AAMSC transplanted into rat model of myocardial infarction showed higher Flk1 and Flt1 positivity and also promoted intrinsic Flk1+ and Flt1+ cell mobilization into the infarcted heart. Given the ease of availability of MSC and simplicity of approach to co-overexpress Ang-1 and Akt to enhance their endothelial commitment, the strategy will be significant for cellular angiogenesis to treat ischemic heart.
Dissociation of microsomal oxygen reduction and lipid peroxidation with the electron acceptors, paraquat and menadione.

Abstract Paraquat, diquat and menadione, electron acceptors which interact with the microsomal electron transport chain, were used to investigate the relationship between microsomal lipid peroxidation and microsomal oxygen reduction. All three compounds stimulated hydrogen peroxide production and the rate of superoxide production by mouse liver microsomes. However, while paraquat and diquat stimulated microsomal lipid peroxidation (2-fold in liver microsomes and 6- to 10-fold in lung microsomes), menadione was a potent inhibitor. Superoxide dismutase and catalase had no effect on paraquat-stimulated lipid peroxidation. Diquat, at concentrations sufficient to stimulate Superoxide production, was unable to stimulate lipid peroxidation. Based on the above observations, a mechanism of paraquat- and diquat-initiated lipid peroxidation independent of superoxide and peroxide generation is proposed. The stimulatory effects of paraquat and diquat on lung microsomal lipid peroxidation are also discussed in relation to the lipid peroxidation hypothesis of paraquat lung toxicity.
Cure chemistry of wood/polymeric isocyanate (PMDI) bonds: Effect of wood species

Abstract The wood-species dependent performance of polymeric isocyanate resin (PMDI) was investigated by fracture analysis and solid-state NMR. The fracture performance of two different woods (yellow-poplar and southern yellow pine) bonded with PMDI was evaluated using mode-I cleavage. The fracture toughness of pine samples was significantly greater than the corresponding yellow-poplar samples. Separately, the cure chemistry of wood/PMDI bondlines was investigated by solid-state NMR with nitrogen-labeled (N15) resin, and by employing spectral decomposition of the complex resonance arising from protonated nuclei. A small but statistically significant species effect was found in both the cure chemistry and in the proton rotating-frame relaxation for samples cured at lower temperatures. These differences were not found at higher cure temperatures. This suggested that a species effect might arise in the core of commercial wood-based composite panels, where lower cure temperatures are found. Wood acetylation altered the wood-PMDI cure chemistry by reducing the relative signal intensity in the urethane spectral region by 35%. However acetylated wood specimens still exhibited significant N15 signal in the urethane spectral region. Since little or no urethane was expected from acetylated samples, an unequivocal urethane detection remains elusive, and if it is detected its occurrence was grossly overestimated by the spectral decomposition employed in this work.