cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Representation of the orientation distribution function and computation of first-order elastic properties closures using discrete Fourier transforms

Abstract The orientation distribution function (ODF) is most commonly described in the Bunge–Euler space using generalized spherical harmonics (GSH) as a Fourier basis. In this paper, we explore critically the relative advantages and disadvantages of using an alternate description of the ODF using the much more readily accessible discrete Fourier transforms (DFTs). Appropriate protocols to address the consideration of crystal and sample symmetries in the DFT representations of ODFs have been developed and validated in this paper. It was also observed that the representation of first-order texture-elastic property linkages using DFTs needed a higher number of terms compared to the GSH representations. However, the use of DFT representations resulted in major computational economy in producing the ODF plots as well as the delineation of the property closures. It is shown that the improved computational efficiency facilitated the delineation of the first-order elastic property closures involving the normal–shear coupling stiffness coefficients.
Gastrointestinal involvement in chronic granulomatous disease.

Objective. Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is a rare disorder of phagocyte oxidative metabolism. In addition to infectious complications, granulomatous lesions often involve hollow viscera, especially the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical presentation, prevalence, and consequences of GI involvement in patients with CGD. Methods. The medical records of 140 patients with CGD (67% X-linked) followed at the National Institutes of Health were reviewed and abstracted for GI manifestations. All available GI pathology was reviewed. Results. GI involvement was recorded in 46 (32.8%) of 140 patients with CGD, 89% of whom had X-linked inheritance. The median age at the time of initial GI manifestations was 5 years (range: 0.8–30 years); 70% of the affected patients presented with GI involvement in the first decade of life. Abdominal pain was the most frequent symptom (100%), and hypoalbuminemia was the most frequent sign (70%). Prednisone controlled symptoms and signs in the majority of affected patients, but relapse of symptoms occurred in 71%. GI involvement had no effect on mortality and was unassociated with interferon-γ use. Conclusion. GI involvement is a common and recurring problem in CGD, especially in those with X-linked inheritance. Currently, there is no clear evidence for an infectious cause. The frequency of GI involvement is unaffected by the use of interferon-γ and does not affect mortality. GI involvement should be sought in patients who have CGD with abdominal pain, growth delay, or hypoalbuminemia.
Review and Perspective on the Composition and Safety of Green Tea Extracts

The growing body of evidence regarding the putative health benefits of green tea (Camellia sinensis), including reduced risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease, has led to an increase in the consumption of brewed green tea and the formulation of green tea extracts (GTE) into a variety of food and beverage products and food supplements. The principal bioactive ingredients in green tea beverages and GTE are polyphenols, particularly the flavan-3-ols, which have been shown to act on antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, glucoregulatory, and cell signaling pathways. Some experimental evidence and case reports suggest the use of green tea and GTE is associated with the potential for inducing liver injury. The ability to extrapolate findings from in vitro and animal model studies is always limited and the available results on green teaand GTE-induced liver injury in humans have presented clinical and regulatory challenges due to the difficulty of demonstrating a causal relationship between intake and harm. Attention to the risk for hepatotoxicity has largely been focused on GTE. Existing data are insufficient to identify the causative agent in the preparation or composition of GTE or its dose or duration of use as well as nutrigenetic, medical, and other factors that may contribute to the risk of hepatotoxicity. Responses by different government regulatory agencies regarding the safety of GTE are inconsistent with one another, including the dosage and derivation of its bioactives from aqueous versus hydro-alcoholic extracts. Restrictions on the production of GTE limit the application of innovative extraction Review Article Blumberg et al.; EJNFS, 5(1):1-31, 2015; Article no.EJNFS.2015.001 2 technologies that may improve the efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness of production and minimize the presence of endogenous or contaminant heavy metals as well as mycotoxins, pesticides, and other unwanted constituents. The objective of this review is to characterize the phytochemical profile of green tea and GTE, provide an updated description of the methods that could be used to extract green tea constituents, and discuss recent considerations on the potential for harm from consumption of GTE and products containing GTE.
WHATSISFACE: human facial composition by computer graphics

Sketching a human face is a task which involves spatial decisions and a knowledge of the aspects of the face that are important in recognition. These are talents which non-artists lack.This paper describes WHATSISFACE, a system with which a non-artist can create, on a graphic display, any male Caucasian facial image resembling the face on a photograph in front of him. The computer system contains prestored facial features, an average face used as a starting point, and a heuristic strategy which guides the user through a carefully constructed sequence of questions, choices, and feature manipulations. The user makes all of the visual decisions and can change the individual features or hierarchically organized sets of features using analog input devices.Several specialized graphics algorithms were developed for this work and are described.
Efficacy of Buquinolate Against Six Species of Coccidia

Abstract INTRODUCTION ALTHOUGH the use of chemotherapeutic agents in the control of coccidiosis is as old as the poultry industry, a completely satisfactory coccidiostat is yet to be found. Since Herrick and Holmes (1936) showed the efficacy of sulfur against coccidiosis, the search for more effective, more efficient drugs has been continuous. Countless thousands of compounds have been screened but less than 25 have been widely used commercially (Reid, 1961). However, the appearance of resistant strains of coccidia (Kendall et al., 1945; Waletzky et al., 1954; Cuckler and Malagna, 1955; McLoughlin and Gardiner, 1962) or various harmful side effects have caused the usefulness of many of these compounds to be cut short. In spite of the widespread usage of coccidiostats for several years, coccidiosis continues to be a major problem in broilers, as well as replacement and laying flocks. This continued incidence of coccidiosis (Covet, 1966) points out the importance of …
Factor Analysis of the Stability of Self Scale

The factor structure of Rosenberg's Stability of Self Scale (1965) was investigated via principal components factor analysis. Data from 92 male and 171 female undergraduates yielded a one-factor so...
Optimization of asymmetric catalysts using achiral ligands: metal geometry-induced ligand asymmetry.

Traditionally, asymmetric catalysts have been optimized by modification of resolved chiral ligands. In this Letter, we optimize the asymmetric addition of diethylzinc to aldehydes by modification of achiral methylene bis(phenol) ligands. Upon coordination of the substrate, the achiral ligand becomes asymmetric, a concept termed Metal Geometry-Induced Ligand Asymmetry. The enantioselectivity of the catalyst formed from a single resolved ligand and several achiral ligands ranged from 9% (R) to 83% (S).
Deformation-induced point defects in NiAl single crystals

Abstract NiAl single crystals, oriented for single slip, were deformed at room temperature to a strain of 2%, and were subsequently annealed in the temperature range of 673–873 K (T/Tm=0.35–0.45). In as-deformed samples, dislocation substructures consist of jogged edge and screw dislocations, and prismatic loops. Densities of vacancy- and interstitial-type loops are about equal. Annealing causes shrinkage and disappearance of the interstitial loops and significant growth of the vacancy loops. These observations suggest that excess vacancies are present after room temperature deformation. These non-equilibrium point defects may result from non-conservative motion of jogged screw dislocations.
STRUCTURE, ALTERNATIVE SPLICING AND CHROMOSOMAL LOCALIZATION OF THE CYSTATIN-RELATED EPIDIDYMAL SPERMATOGENIC GENE

The cystatin superfamily of cysteine protease inhibitors consists of three major families, including the stefins, cystatins and kininogens. However, the recent identification of several genes that possess sequence similarity with the cystatins but have different gene or protein structures indicates that several new cystatin families or subgroups of families might exist. We previously identified the cystatin-related epididymal spermatogenic (Cres) gene, which is related to the family 2 cystatins but exhibits highly tissue-specific expression in the reproductive tract. In the studies presented here, an analysis of gene structure as well as chromosomal mapping studies suggest that the Cres gene might represent a new subgroup within the family 2 cystatins. Although the Cres gene possesses an additional exon encoding 5' untranslated sequences, its coding exons are similar in size to the three coding exons of the cystatin family 2 genes, and the Cres exon/intron splice junctions occur in identical locations as in the cystatin C gene. Furthermore, chromosomal mapping studies show that the Cres gene co-segregates with the cystatin C gene on mouse chromosome 2. Similar to the cystatin family 2 proteins, the Cres protein possesses the type A and B disulphide loops that are necessary for cystatin folding. Interestingly, Cres protein also possesses half of a type C disulphide loop. Although probably related to the cystatin genes, the Cres gene is distinct in that its promoter contains consensus motifs typical of regulated genes. Finally, reverse transcriptase-mediated PCR studies and the identification of new Cres cDNA clones indicate that the Cres mRNA is alternatively spliced, resulting in two Cres mRNAs that might be involved in the regulation of Cres function.
Quantitative measurement of neural post-stimulation excitability with behavioral methods

Previous paired-pulse techniques for estimating neural refractory periods of neurons mediating behaviors elicited by electrical stimulation of the brain are shown to be inadequate for characterizing the distribution of refractory periods. A new method is proposed which makes possible quantitative analysis of neural excitability cycle changes. Excitability increases for fibers mediating bar pressing for rewarding brain stimulation are found at all C-T intervals from 0.4 to 1.2 msec. The results are discussed in terms of local potential summation, relative and absolute refractory periods.
Triaglycerol metabolism in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Relation to phospholipid synthesis.

Abstract The acylglycerol content of Saccharomyces cerevisiae has been examined during cellular growth. The cells maintained a constant amount of phospholipid and diacylglycerol throughout growth. Triacylglycerol content fell in the early exponential phase of growth and then increased sharply upon entry of the culture into the stationary growth phase. Pulse-chase experiments with [1- 14 C]-oleic acid and [2- 3 H]- and [1- 14 C]glycerol indicated that the triacylglycerol molecule was utilized for phospholipid synthesis in early exponential phase, probably through a diacylglycerol intermediate. A substantial turnover of phospholipid during growth was also apparent. No role for the triacylglycerol could be found in regulating the fatty acid species of the phospholipid nor in the storage of fatty acid for energy metabolism.
Considerations on preestablished tree rerouting handoff protocols for wireless ATM PCN

Handoff in an ATM-based wireless network is an important and hard problem. Mobile virtual circuit (MVC) and virtual connection tree (VCT) represent an approach of preestablished tree rerouting. However, a major error is found in the MVC based handoff scheme. Possible remedies to it are suggested. Comparisons between MVC and VCT are made and limitations of VCT are discussed. For a better solution, an architecture for an ATM-based wireless PCN is proposed and a simple but efficient handoff scheme based on this architecture is described. Analysis shows that it shares the advantages of VCT while overcoming the latter's limitations.
Calcium-dependent interaction of N-type calcium channels with the synaptic core complex

NEUROTRANSMITTER release is initiated by influx of Ca2+ through voltage-gated Ca2+ channels1,2, within 200 μs of the action potential arriving at the synaptic terminal3, as the Ca2+ concentration increases from 100 nM to >200μM4. Exocytosis requires high Ca2+ concentration, with a threshold of 20–50 μM and half-maximal activation at 190 μM5,6. The synaptic membrane proteins syntaxin7,8, 25K synaptosome-associated protein (SNAP25)9, and vesicle-associated membrane protein (VAMP)/ synaptobrevin10–12, are thought to form a synaptic core complex which mediates vesicle docking and membrane fusion13–19. Synaptotagmin may be the low-affinity Ca2+-sensor20–24, but other Ca2+-sensors are involved25–27 as residual neurotransmission persists in synaptotagmin-null mutants. Syntaxin binds to N-type Ca2+ channels7,8,28,29 at a site in the intracellular loop connecting domains II and III30. Here we describe Ca2+-dependent interaction of this site with syntaxin and SNAP25 which has a biphasic dependence on Ca2+, with maximal binding at 20 μM free Ca2+, near the threshold for transmitter release. Ca2+-dependent interaction of Ca2+ channels with the synaptic core complex may be important for Ca2+-dependent docking and fusion of synaptic vesicles.
analysis & commentary The Foundation That Health Reform Lays For Improved Payment, Care Coordination, And Prevention

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act represents a major opportunity to achieve several key goals at once: improving disease prevention; reforming care delivery; and bending the cost curve of health spending while also realizing greater value for the dollars spent. Reform-based initiatives could produce major gains in a relatively short time. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services should develop an action plan detailing how the programs that the health reform law sets into motion throughout various agencies can work synergistically. It should also detail how best practices in finance and payment, in the organization and delivery of care, and in prevention can be expanded nationally.
Characteristics of a transport system serving for the transfer of histidine into S37 ascites tumor cells

Abstract 1. 1. S37 ascites tumor cells accumulate the amino acid histidine by 2 distinguishable processes. One of these has been characterized in an earlier publication ( Biochim. Biophys. Acta , 203 (1970) 457). 2. 2. The second system possesses kinetic parameters such that it could be mistaken for a “non-saturable” uptake process. However, the flux associated with this system may exceed that which might be attributable to “non-saturable” uptake, and competition for uptake by this site is shown to occur. 3. 3. The high c system described in this article resembles the “A” system described by Oxender and Christensen ( J. Biol. Chem. , 238 (1963) 3686), in its specificity. 4. 4. The high c system does not appear to function in exchange of amino acids. 5. 5. Na + stimulates uptake by the high c system, but is not required for transfer of histidine to occur by the high c system. Comparison of uptake in the presence of various alkali metal ions discloses a strong field sequence for interaction of the ions with the transport process. 6. 6. Concentrative uptake by the high c system is dependent upon the availability of metabolic energy. 7. 7. Trans inhibition of the high c system is shown to occur.
Gas-Phase Reactivity of Gold Oxide Cluster Cations with CO

Gold oxide cluster cations, containing one to four gold atoms and between one and five oxygen atoms, were investigated employing guided-ion-beam mass spectrometry to gain insight into their reactivity with CO. Clusters with one atomically bound oxygen atom (AuO+, Au2O+, and Au3O+) were found to be reactive and selective toward oxidation of one CO molecule facilitated by adsorption of a second CO. Furthermore, the mono-oxide clusters with an odd number of gold atoms (AuO+ and Au3O+) were determined to be more reactive than Au2O+. Species with higher oxygen content favored adsorption of one CO molecule onto the cluster accompanied by the loss of either one or two O2 molecules, indicating that binding of O2 molecules to positively charged gold clusters does not prevent the subsequent chemisorption of CO. Clusters with two or more gold atoms exhibited products corresponding to loss of AuO2 when reacted with CO. Positively charged gas-phase gold clusters, therefore, may be broken apart by the exothermic adsorp...
Decontamination of materials contaminated with Francisella philomiragia or MS2 bacteriophage using PES-Solid, a solid source of peracetic acid.

Aim The aim of the study was to develop test methods and evaluate survival of Francisella philomiragia cells and MS2 bacteriophage after exposure to PES-Solid (a solid source of peracetic acid) formulations with or without surfactants. Methods and Results Francisella philomiragia cells (≥7·6 log10 CFU) or MS2 bacteriophage (≥6·8 log10 PFU) were deposited on seven different test materials and treated with three different PES-Solid formulations, three different preneutralized samples and filter controls at room temperature for 15 min. There were 0–1·3 log10 CFU (<20 cells) of cell survival, or 0–1·7 log10 (<51 PFU) of bacteriophage survival in all 21 test combinations (organism, formulation and substrate) containing reactive PES-Solid. In addition, the microemulsion (Dahlgren Surfactant System) showed ≤2 log10 (100 cells) of viable F. philomiragia cells, indicating the microemulsion achieved <2 log10 CFU on its own. Conclusions Three PES-Solid formulations and one microemulsion system (DSS) inactivated F. philomiragia cells and/or MS2 bacteriophage that were deposited on seven different materials. Significance and Impact of the Study A test method was developed to show that reactive PES-Solid formulations and a microemulsion system (DSS) inactivated >6 log10 CFU/PFU F. philomiragia cells and/or MS2 bacteriophage on different materials.
THE INFRARED SPECTRA OF DEUTERATED TETRAHYDROFURANS

Abstract The infrared spectra of a series of deuterated tetrahydrofurans have been studied in the gaseous, liquid and solid states in the region between 3200 and 350 cm−1. An attempt has been made to assign the observed absorption bands to the normal modes of vibration, taking advantage of isotopic shifts and effects due to phase changes. The spectra of the liquid compounds show the usual displacements compared with those of the vapors; the solid-state spectra are intensified and reveal a sharpening and splitting of the absorption bands. A number of peaks in the region between 1400 and 700 cm−1 possess appreciable fine structure in the crystalline state.
Choosing an antibiotic.

This article marks the beginning of a regular feature in the Journal. “Pharmacologic Highlights” will provide information an the latest in pharmacologic intervention, as well as stressing the importance of appropriate use of “tried and true” standard pharmacologic products. Reader input is most welcome. If you have suggestions for topics to be covered in this column or wish to contribute to this column, please contact Column Editor Margaret Fitzgerald (Simmons College, C-216, 300 The Fenway, Boston, MA 02115-5898).
The Effect of Selected Salts on the Microwave Heating of Starch Solutions

This research explores the effects of selected salts on the microwave heating profile of a 5% (w/w) starch solution containing salt. The salts used were NaCl, CaCl 2 , FeCl 3 , Na 4 P 2 O 7 , or Na 5 P 3 O 10 at a concentration of 1% (w/w). The temperature of the starch solution was taken every 10 s for 90 s, and the heating curves have been plotted to show the effects of different salts on the heating of the starch solutions. There was a significant difference in the heating profile of samples containing salts versus those with without salt. However, there was no significant effect of type of salt used in the starch solution.
Aggregation studies of complexes containing a chiral lithium amide and n-Butyllithium.

A system consisting of a chiral lithium amide and n-BuLi in tol-d8 solution was investigated with 1H and 13C INEPT DOSY, 6Li and 15N NMR, and other 2D NMR techniques. A mixed 2:1 trimeric complex was identified as the major species as the stoichiometry approached 1.5 equiv of n-BuLi to 1 equiv of amine compound. 1H and 13C INEPT DOSY spectra confirmed this lithium aggregate in the solution. The formula weight of the aggregate, correlated with diffusion coefficients of internal references, indicated the aggregation number of this complex. Plots of log Drel vs log FW are linear (r > 0.9900). 6Li and 15N NMR titration experiments also corroborated these results. These NMR experiments indicate that this mixed aggregate is the species that is responsible for asymmetric addition of n-BuLi to aldehydes.
Noise reduction using adaptive spatial filtering in photorefractive two-beam coupling

We present an optical signal-processing technique for additive noise reduction that uses the noisy signal and a Gaussian reference beam to produce an adaptive Wiener filter. We experimentally demonstrate an improvement from 1 to 8 in the signal-to-noise ratio by using nonlinear gain in two-beam coupling in barium titanate to transmit 50% of the signal and 6% of the noise.
Suicide risk in older adults: Evaluating models of risk and predicting excess zeros in a primary care sample

Research is needed that examines theory-based risk factors for suicide in older adults. The interpersonal theory of suicide (Joiner, 2005; Van Orden et al., 2010) provides specific hypotheses regarding variables that contribute to the development and variability in death ideation and suicide ideation; however, data suggest that older adults may not report suicide ideation in research settings or to treatment providers even when they experience it (Heisel et al., 2006). The purpose of this study was to test theory-based predictions regarding variables that contribute to death ideation (i.e., a passive wish to die) and suicide ideation in older adults. This study introduces the application of zero-inflated negative binomial regression (ZINB) to the study of suicidal behavior. ZINB was used to test theory-based predictions, while also testing a hypothesis regarding variables associated with denial of suicide ideation among participants who endorsed risk factors associated with suicide risk. Participants included 239 adults aged 60 and older recruited from primary care clinics who completed a variety of self-report instruments. The results of this study indicated that perceived burdensomeness and hopelessness were significantly associated with variability in death ideation. Additional results indicated that elevated scores on thwarted belonging, the interaction between perceived burdensomeness and hopelessness, and the interaction between thwarted belonging and perceived burdensomeness were associated with a significant reduction in the probability of a participant being a suicide ideator. These results offer substantial support for the interpersonal theory of suicide. The implications of these findings are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2013 APA, all rights reserved). Language: en
Involvement of protein synthesis in the development of thermotolerance using a CHO temperature-sensitive mutant.

A Chinese hamster ovary temperature-sensitive mutant (CHO-tsH1) with defective leucyl-tRNA synthetase at temperatures > 39°C was used to examine the importance of protein synthesis in the development of thermotolerance. Its wild-type parent CHO-SC1 was used as the control. At temperatures of 41.5°C, 42°C and 42.5°C, SC1 showed the classical biphasic thermotolerant response while tsH1 showed no thermotolerance. When both cell lines were heated for 15 min at 45°C, then allowed to incubate at the permissive temperature of 35°C and finally challenged with another 25 min treatment at 45°C, tolerance was expressed in both cell lines. When the development incubation temperature was raised from 35°C to the non-permissive temperature of 40°C, tolerance was also observed. Although both cell lines expressed tolerance under these conditions, the magnitude and duration of response of the mutant cell line were reduced. Heat-shock protein analysis using one-dimensional gel electrophoresis showed that, under permissive c...
Further developing Torsion Field Communications Technology physical aspects

Experiments on Torsion Fields, TF Communication have revealed its feasibility. Very first experiments were conducted in USSR back in 80's. The further progress of the Theory of TF stimulates evolution in developing physical base of TF Communication. So far this progress is reduced to capability to transmit single bits of information. However, strictly nonlinear nature of TF phenomena reveals unusual hidden meaning even of these single bits of information. The paper deals with further steps in the physical base of this Technology. In particular, one of the major questions of any communication, a signal to noise ratio, is subject to new approaches based on entanglement of wave functions of transmitter and receiver. Moreover, very physical base of generation of TF signal and furnishing mutual addressing of the receiver and the transmitter experienced some new findings. One of them is an application of an orbital momentum of the electronic beam as a source of TF as well as other aspects of physical base of this Technology, considered in the paper.
Arg/Abl2 promotes invasion and attenuates proliferation of breast cancer in vivo

Tumor progression is a complex, multistep process involving accumulation of genetic aberrations and alterations in gene expression patterns leading to uncontrolled cell division, invasion into surrounding tissue and finally dissemination and metastasis. We have previously shown that the Arg/Abl2 non-receptor tyrosine kinase acts downstream of the EGF receptor and Src tyrosine kinases to promote invadopodium function in breast cancer cells, thereby promoting their invasiveness. However, whether and how Arg contributes to tumor development and dissemination in vivo has never been investigated. Using a mouse xenograft model, we show that knocking down Arg in breast cancer cells leads to increased tumor cell proliferation and significantly enlarged tumor size. Despite having larger tumors, the Arg-knockdown (Arg KD) tumor-bearing mice exhibit significant reductions in tumor cell invasion, intravasation into blood vessels and spontaneous metastasis to lungs. Interestingly, we found that proliferation-associated genes in the Ras-MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) pathway are upregulated in Arg KD breast cancer cells, as is Ras-MAPK signaling, while invasion-associated genes are significantly downregulated. These data suggest that Arg promotes tumor cell invasion and dissemination, while simultaneously inhibiting tumor growth. We propose that Arg acts as a switch in metastatic cancer cells that governs the decision to 'grow or go' (divide or invade).
Obstetric Anesthesiologists as Perioperative Physicians: Improving Peripartum Care and Patient Safety

The care of obstetric patients has become challenging due to the changing demographics of the pregnant population. Women with chronic diseases and congenital heart disease live to child-bearing age due to medical and surgical advances. Older and less healthy women become pregnant due to advances in reproductive technologies. Therefore, obstetric anesthesiologists have an increasingly important role in the peripartum period. In this article, we review the role of obstetric anesthesiologists in the antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum periods. The need for multidisciplinary care of high-risk parturients is discussed, including the role of anesthesiologists in the National Maternal Health Initiative to improve maternal morbidity and mortality.
Molecular regulation of lipotoxicity in the heart

Perturbation of energy and lipid homeostasis plays a central role in the pathogenesis of heart disease. Primary and/or secondary alterations of lipid metabolism pathways in various conditions lead to myocardial lipid accumulation and lipotoxic cardiomyopathy. This review discusses molecular mechanisms underlying lipotoxicity in the heart in human disease and in animal models, and identifies novel molecular therapeutic targets for the treatment of cardiac disorders with lipotoxicity.
Making planes plain.

The major anatomical planes (horizontal, coronal, and sagittal, including the median plane) are discussed from a historical perspective, and their correct usage is clarified. Unofficial and unnecessary terms to be avoided (for reasons explained) include midsagittal, parasagittal, and midline. Clin. Anat. 10:128–129, 1997 © 1997 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
PEDIATRIC INFLAMMATORY BLADDER TUMORS: MYOFIBROBLASTIC AND EOSINOPHILIC SUBTYPES

ABSTRACTPurpose: Benign bladder tumors are rare in children. A number of descriptive terms have previously been used to describe inflammatory tumors with myofibroblastic proliferation or eosinophilic infiltration. We present our experience with these tumors and review the literature.Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the records of all children presenting with a benign focal bladder mass during the last 5 years, including 2 girls and 3 boys 2 to 12 years old (mean age 7).Results: Presenting symptomatology included irritative voiding symptoms, suprapubic pain and hematuria. All bladder masses were diagnosed by ultrasonography and all patients underwent transurethral resection. Three children who had an inflammatory bladder tumor with myofibroblastic features required open tumor excision with preservation of the bladder. In the 2 remaining children urine culture was positive preoperatively and the diagnosis was an inflammatory bladder tumor with eosinophilic infiltration. Transurethral resec...
Evaluation of induced color changes in chicken breast meat during simulation of pink color defect

The objective of the study was to establish a pink threshold and simulate the pink defect in cooked chicken breast meat with treatment combinations that would induce significant changes in the color of raw and cooked meat. The subjective pink threshold used in judging pink discoloration was established at a* = 3.8. Samples of three color groups (normal, lighter than normal, and darker than normal) of boneless, skinless chicken breast muscles were selected based on instrumental color values. The in situ changes were induced using sodium chloride, sodium tripolyphosphate, sodium erythorbate, and sodium nitrite at two levels: present and not present. Fillets in all treatments were subjected to individual injections, followed by tumbling, cooking, and chilling. Samples were analyzed for color [lightness (L*), red/green axis (a*), yellow/blue axis (b*)] and reflectance spectra. Simulation of the pink defect was achieved in eight of the 16 treatment combinations when sodium nitrite was present and in an additional two treatment combinations when it was absent. Pinking in cooked samples was affected (P < 0.05) by L* of raw meat color. Results confirmed that it was possible to simulate the undesired pinking in cooked chicken white meat when in situ conditions were induced by sodium chloride, sodium tripolyphosphate, and sodium nitrite. The continuation of the simulation study can aid in developing alternative processing methods to eliminate potential pink defects.
Hydrogen Storage in Titanium-Magnesium-Nickel Mixtures

The hydrogen interaction properties of mechanically alloyed mixtures of Ti, Mg, and Ni have been shown to be strongly dependent on the time and energy of ball milling. Mixtures ball milled at a ball to powder ratio (by mass) of 20:1 were able to absorb 3–4 wthydrogen. Mixtures ball milled at a ball to powder ratio of 70:1 were able to absorb up to 11 wthydrogen. The dependence of hydrogen uptake on ball milling time and energy is shown to be related to the microstructural morphology of the ball milled powders. The original Mg powder particles were heavily deformed by the ball milling process and contained nano-sized inclusions of both Ti and Ni at the surface. The higher energy ball milled samples showed a more refined microstructure and a greater hydrogen capacity. In addition, there was an inverse relationship between the amount of hydrogen uptake and the size of inclusions at the surface of the particles.
Enhanced Induction of Mucin-Depleted Foci in Estrogen Receptor β Knockout Mice

The role of the estrogen receptor beta (ERbeta) in the colon has received considerable interest, yet in vivo models are needed to better define its protective actions. In the present study, wild-type (WT), ERalpha, and ERbeta knockout (alphaERKO and betaERKO) mice were injected with azoxymethane, a colon chemical carcinogen. Fourteen weeks after azoxymethane exposure, the incidence of aberrant crypt foci (ACF) was assessed by methylene blue staining. betaERKO mice showed significantly higher incidence (P < 0.001) of ACF (15.0 +/- 2.5) compared with alphaERKO (3.4 +/- 1.0) and WT (4.6 +/- 1.0) mice. The colons in several betaERKO mice had increased thickness and loss of normal morphology. It has been reported that ERbeta plays a role in the maintenance of the colonic crypt architecture; this may explain the loss of crypt organization in the colonic epithelium of betaERKO mice. The presence of mucin-depleted foci (MDF) has been shown, both in humans and in rodents, as an early event in colon cancer. Therefore, to surpass the limitations with ACF scoring, we performed Alcian blue-neutral red staining to assess the presence of MDF. This assay allowed the assessment of precancerous lesions on all the betaERKO mice colons (38.3 +/- 4.0; P < 0.001), comparing to WT and alphaERKO mice (6.6 +/- 1.5 and 10.0 +/- 1.9, respectively), and served to confirm the ACF results. Together, these data support the use of MDF staining as a biomarker for precancerous lesions and the protective role of ERbeta in colon carcinogenesis.
A single-stage three-phase AC module for high-voltage photovoltaics

A single-stage three-phase voltage source inverter for high-voltage PV modules is presented. The benefits of the proposed design are simplicity, low cost, high efficiency, and high reliability. The inverter is intended for module integration and is designed for a relatively low power rating of approximately 250W. Analytical models and dynamic simulation are used to calculate expected efficiency. The mean time to failure is estimated using established methods. Component costs are approximated with a linear regression which relates device ratings with price data. It is shown that in comparison to conventional single-phase module-integrated converters, the power component cost reduction is approximately 60%, peak efficiency is increased above 98%, and longer life is anticipated. Experimental results are shown.
CD8+ Foxp3+ Regulatory T Cells Are Induced during Graft-versus-Host Disease and Mitigate Disease Severity

Regulatory T cells (Tregs), in particular CD4(+) Foxp3(+) T cells, have been shown to play an important role in the maintenance of tolerance after allogeneic stem cell transplantation. In the current study, we have identified a population of CD8(+) Foxp3(+) T cells that are induced early during graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), constitute a significant percentage of the entire Treg population, and are present in all major GVHD target organs. These cells expressed many of the same cell surface molecules as found on CD4(+) Tregs and potently suppressed in vitro alloreactive T cell responses. Induction of these cells correlated positively with the degree of MHC disparity between donor and recipient and was significantly greater than that observed for CD4(+)-induced Tregs (iTregs) in nearly all tissue sites. Mice that lacked the ability to make both CD8(+) and CD4(+) iTregs had accelerated GVHD mortality compared with animals that were competent to make both iTreg populations. The absence of both iTreg populations was associated with significantly greater expansion of activated donor T cells and increased numbers of CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells that secreted IFN-γ and IL-17. The presence of CD8(+) iTregs, however, was sufficient to prevent increased GVHD mortality in the complete absence of CD4(+) Tregs, indicating at least one functional iTreg population was sufficient to prevent an exacerbation in GVHD severity, and that CD8(+) iTregs could compensate for CD4(+) iTregs. These studies define a novel population of CD8(+) Tregs that play a role in mitigating the severity of GVHD after allogeneic stem cell transplantation.
Qa-1(b)-dependent modulation of dendritic cell and NK cell cross-talk in vivo.

Dendritic cells (DC) trigger activation and IFN-γ release by NK cells in lymphoid tissues, a process important for the polarization of Th1 responses. Little is known about the molecular signals that regulate DC-induced NK cell IFN-γ synthesis. In this study, we analyzed whether the interaction between Qa-1 b expressed on DC and its CD94/NKG2A receptor on NK cells affects this process. Activation of DC using CpG-oligodeoxynucleotides in Qa-1 b -deficient mice, or transfer of CpG-oligodeoxynucleotide-activated Qa-1 b -deficient DC into wild-type mice, resulted in dramatically increased IFN-γ production by NK cells, as compared with that induced by Qa-1 b -expressing DC. Masking the CD94/NKG2A inhibitory receptor on NK cells in wild-type mice similarly enhanced the IFN-γ response of these cells to Qa-1 b -expressing DC. Furthermore, NK cells from CD94/NKG2A-deficient mice displayed higher IFN-γ production upon DC stimulation. These results demonstrate that Qa-1 b is critically involved in regulating IFN-γ synthesis by NK cells in vivo through its interaction with CD94/NKG2A inhibitory receptors. This receptor-ligand interaction may be essential to prevent unabated cytokine production by NK cells during an inflammatory response.
Effect of multiple via layout on electromigration performance and current density distribution in copper interconnect

Downstream Electromigration (EM) was studied on different multiple via structures. Structures with more via gained better EM performance improvement. Failure analysis showed different EM failure modes on these structures. Finite element analysis is applied to find out the current density profiles and their variation between these structures. Resistance increases due to EM induced void are also simulated and found to be dependent on size and location of void. The different EM results of these multiple via structures are explained with the current density results and the different diffusion patterns found.
Promoting Student Adjustment to College: A Counseling Technique Utilizing Humor

A procedure utilizing humor during guided imagery has been devised to assist the adjustment of people to life demands. The humorous imagery situation technique activates an adaptive sense of humor useful in promoting healthy, psychological adjustment.
Oxygen transfer enhancement in aqueous/perfluorocarbon fermentation systems: I. experimental observations.

A new fiber-optic dissolved oxygen sensing technique was applied to the study of two-phase aqueous/perfluorocarbon (pfc) dispersions. These dispersions were examined for their oxygen transfer enhancement capability in the absence and presence of an oxygen-consuming reaction. For the pfc-in-water dispersions, oxygen uptake rate (OUR) enhancements were equal both with and without oxygen-consuming cells present in the aqueous phase. In contrast, for water-in-pfc dispersions, OUR enhancements inthe presence of reaction were limited by oxygen diffusion across the aqueous phase droplets. Nevertheless, enhancement factors of 5-10 on an aqueous phase volume basis were obtained in a 75% pfc dispersion.These oxygen transfer enhancements were directly translatable into enhancements in overall fermenter productivity for actual microbial cultivation systems.
The Role of Sexual Arousal and Overperception of Sexual Intent Within the Decision to Engage in Sexual Coercion

Sexual coercion is a significant problem on college campuses despite numerous attempts to better understand and prevent it. Some criminological research has examined the role of sexual arousal in decisions to use coercion and force, while psychologists have studied how overperception of sexual interest relates to coercive behaviors. The current study combines these two lines of research to examine whether sexual arousal increases the perception of sexual interest in a hypothetical coercion scenario. A sample of 387 college males were randomly placed into arousal and control conditions and asked to watch either erotic material or a lecture and complete questions regarding a common social dating scenario. Bivariate and multivariate results indicated significant relationships between sexual arousal and overperception of sexual intent with the decision to engage in sexually coercive behaviors, as well as a mediation effect. The implications for theory and sexual assault prevention are discussed.
Evaluating the effectiveness of a priori information on process measures in a virtual reality inspection task

Due to the nature of the complexity of the aircraft maintenance industry, much emphasis has been placed on improving aircraft inspection performance. One proven technique for improving inspection performance is the use of training. Several strategies have been implemented for training, one of which is giving feedforward information. The use of a priori (feedforward) information is known to positively affect inspection performance (Ernst and Yovits, 1972; Long and Rourke, 1989; McKernan, 1989; Gramopadhye et al., 1997). This information can consist of knowledge about defect characteristics (types, severity/criticality, and location) and the probability of occurrence. Although several studies have been conducted that demonstrate the usefulness of feedforward as a training strategy, there are certain research issues that need to be addressed. This study evaluates the effects of feedforward information on process measures in a simulated 3-dimensional environment (aircraft cargo bay) by the use of virtual reality
Laboratory Evaluation of Three Rapid Diagnostic Tests for Dual Detection of HIV and Treponema pallidum Antibodies

The performance of three research-use-only, dual HIV and syphilis rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) was evaluated for 150 patient serum samples and compared to reference HIV and Treponema pallidum antibody detection methods. The RDTs performed comparably, with sensitivities of 93 to 99% and specificities of 97 to 100%. The kappa statistic between the RDTs was 0.95.
Genetic and environmental influences on short-day responsiveness in Siberian hamsters (Phodopus sungorus).

Siberian hamsters are photoperiodic rodents that typically exhibit several physiological changes when exposed to a short-day photoperiod. However, development of the winter phenotype in short days ...
Biochemical analysis of the porcine temporomandibular joint disc

Tissue engineering can be a boon in treating lesions of the disc in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Unfortunately, little is known about its biochemical content, so we analysed the discs of six slaughtered pigs. We measured the content and distribution of total DNA, glycosaminoglycan, and collagen. The mean (S.D.) content of DNA was 0.14% (0.08%) of the dry weight, of glycosaminoglycan 0.96% (0.39%), and of collagen 68.2% (14.5%). There were no significant differences from top to bottom, but from front to back the smallest concentration of glycosaminoglycan was in the posterior band, and the highest concentration of collagen was in the intermediate zone. The concentrations of DNA and glycosaminoglycan were higher in the medial than in the lateral area of the disc.
Highly Memory-Efficient LogLog Hash for Deep Packet Inspection

Today's network line rates reach speeds of 40 Gbps and are anticipated to reach 100 Gbps in the near future. These high speeds make Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) in Network Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (NIDPSs) very challenging. The DPI examines each incoming packet byte-by- byte and matches them against a set of predefined malicious signatures. One way to achieve high-speed DPI is to store all the signatures on high-speed on-chip memory. However, on-chip memory is limited and space-efficient data structures are needed to leverage precious on-chip memory efficiently. A hash table addressed by a Minimal Perfect Hash Function (MPHF) is such a high-speed, space efficient data structure. In this paper, we describe a highly memory-efficient MPHF, which requires 3.5 bits per key to facilitate access to the key in on-chip memory while allowing us to perform the expensive exact match operation only once. The proposed MPHF also has a low construction time.
HODGKIN'S DISEASE MORTALITY AMONG PHYSICIANS

Abstract The possibility that the physicians might represent a high-risk group for Hodgkin's disease was investigated by surveying all teaching hospitals in Upstate New York for deaths due to this disease from 1960 through 1972. The physician-mortality rate observed was statistically significantly higher than those for dentists, general population, and high socio-economic control groups with the same age and sex distribution. The relative risk for physicians was 1·8.
Compact multiple-valued multiplexers using negative differential resistance devices

Quantum electronic devices with negative differential resistance (NDR) characteristics have been used to design compact multiplexers. These multiplexers may be used either as analog multiplexers where the signal on a single select line selects one out of four analog inputs, or as four-valued logic multiplexers where the select line and the input lines represent one of four quantized signal values and the output line corresponds to the selected input. Any four-valued logic function can be implemented using only four-valued multiplexers (also known as T-gates), and this T-gate uses just 13 devices (transistors) as compared to 44 devices in CMOS. The design of the T-gate was done using a combination of resonant tunneling diodes (RTD's) and heterojunction bipolar transistors (HBT's) with the folded I-V characteristic (NDR characteristic) of the RTD's providing the compact logic implementation and the HBT's providing the gain and isolation. The application of the same design principles to the design of T-gates using other NDR devices such as resonant tunneling hot electron transistors (RHET's) and resonant tunneling bipolar transistors (RTBT's) is also demonstrated.