cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Theory of the potential step-linear scan electrolysis method with a comparison of rate constants determined electrochemically and by classical methods

Summary Theory for the potential step-linear scan technique for the case of a chemical reaction following reversible electron transfer has been developed without the use of simplifying approximations introduced by previous authors. Results of the theoretical calculations are presented in the form of working curves from which homogeneous kinetic parameters are easily determined. Results of the theory indicate that this technique should be a versatile method for studying electrode processes and measuring homogeneous rate constants. These conclusions are illustrated by measuring rates of benzidine rearrangement of hydrazobenzene and m-hydrazotoluene. In the case of the latter compound, a direct comparison is given between rate constants measured electrochemically and by classical kinetic methods, and it is concluded that homogeneous rate constants can be measured electrochemically with complete confidence.
Abstract 5584: DNA vaccine encoding prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP) elicits long-term T-cell responses in patients with recurrent prostate cancer

Prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP) is a tumor antigen in prostate cancer, and several clinical trials have used this as a tissue-specific target for anti-tumor vaccines. Ultimately the goal of anti-tumor vaccines is to elicit a sustainable immune response able to eradicate a tumor or at least restrain its growth. We have investigated plasmid DNA vaccines encoding PAP and have previously reported the results of a phase I trial in which 22 patients with biochemically recurrent prostate cancer (clinical stage D0) were immunized six times at biweekly intervals using a DNA vaccine encoding PAP (pTVG-HP). In previous reports we identified that PAP-specific T-cells were elicited, including PAP-specific cytolytic T cells, two weeks following the six immunizations. In the current study we investigated the immunological efficacy of subsequent booster immunizations in two individuals, and conducted more detailed immunological analysis by IFNγ ELISPOT and T cell proliferation, with cells obtained prior to immunization, after every two immunizations, and quarterly for one year following immunization. These studies were conducted to determine when immune responses were elicited, and whether these responses were durable over time, to guide the schedule of vaccine administration to be used in future clinical trials with this particular DNA vaccine. We found that the majority of immune responses elicited with vaccination were only detectable after four to six immunizations. In addition, PAP-specific T-cell responses did persist in several individuals for many months, or were detectable only after several months. Finally, we identified that immune responses previously elicited could be further amplified by subsequent booster immunizations months later. These results suggest that future trials using this DNA vaccine, and potentially other anti-tumor DNA vaccines, should investigate ongoing, rather than limited, schedules of administration with periodic booster immunizations. Moreover, these results suggest that DNA vaccines targeting PAP could potentially be combined with other vaccine strategies targeting this particular antigen to augment PAP-specific T-cell immunity. A pilot trial to evaluate different schedules of DNA vaccine administration for the establishment of persistent PAP-specific memory T cells is currently underway. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 5584.
A contribution to the particle modeling of soap films

A new computer approach to the modeling of soap films is described and implemented. Quasimolecular particles and forces are used to simulate actual molecular structure and forces. Detailed formulas and computer techniques are given. As an example, the approximation of a nontrivial soap film spanning two coaxial rings is constructed and displayed.
Aluminum fluoride reveals a phosphoinositide system within the suprachiasmatic region of rat hypothalamus.

Abstract The phosphoinositide (PI) transduction system has proven to be of major importance in several regions of mammalian brain. In this report, we examined in rats whether a PI system is present in the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN), the site of a biological clock that generate circadian rhythms. Autoradiographic localization of phorbol ester binding revealed moderate levels of protein kinase C, a component of the PI system, in the SCN. Hypothalamic explants containing SCN showed substantial incorporation of [ 3 H]myoinositol into lipids. A AlF 4 − , a non-specific activator of G proteins, produced a dose-dependent increase in inositol monophosphate (IP 1 ) levels in the explants in calcium-free medium, with a maximum increase of 216% of control at 50 mM NaF. Medium containing 1.8 mM calcium stimulated a similar increase in IP 1 levels, but the stimulatory effects of AlF 4 − and calcium were not additive, so that the effect of AlF 4 − was obscured in medium containing calcium. AlF 4 − stimulated accumulation of IP 1 , as well as inositol bis-, and triphosphate, over a 40-min time course in the presence and absence of lithium (10 mM LiCl). Lithium, a known inhibitor of phosphatases in the inositol phosphate recycling pathway, raised levels of all 3 inositol phosphates in SCN explants both at baseline (without AlF 4 − ) and after 30 minAlF 4 − stimulation. The results show the existence of a lithium-sensitive PI system within the suprachiasmatic region of the rat hypothalamus.
Abstract 4642: GRP78 in association with VEGFR-2 detects early stage ovarian cancer.

Background: The lack of an effective early detection test makes ovarian cancer (OVCA) a fatal malignancy of women. Changes in cellular metabolic processes during ovarian malignant transformation lead to the endoplasmic reticular (ER) and mitochondrial stress. Glucose-regulated protein of 78kDa (GRP78) is a marker of ER stress. Tumor-associated ER stress causes relocalization of GRP78 from ER to cell surface with an increase in its serum levels. Secreted GRP78 also stimulates tumor associated neoangiogenesis (TAN). Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) is a marker of ovarian TAN. Thus GRP78 represents a marker of ovarian malignant transformation and in association with VEGFR-2 may constitute an early detection test for OVCA. However, information on OVCA related changes in GRP78 expression and its association with ovarian TAN is unknown. Objectives: The goals of this study were to examine (i) whether GRP78 expression increases during malignant changes in the ovary and (ii) whether the frequency of TAN vessels is associated with ovarian tumor-associated GRP78 expression at early stage of OVCA in the laying hen, a spontaneous model of human OVCA. Materials and Methods: 3-4 years old White Leghorn laying hens with normal (n=25) or ovarian tumors (n=30) were selected by contrast enhanced transvaginal ultrasound scanning. Serum samples were collected, hens were euthanized, and ovarian tissues were processed for routine histology or immunohistochemistry (IHC) and protein extraction. Ovarian tumors were confirmed by gross morphology and microscopy. Expression of GRP78 by ovarian malignant cells and VEGFR-2 by TAN vessels was determined by IHC. IHC observations were confirmed by immunoproteomic studies. Results: As compared with normal ovaries (n=25), the intensity of GRP78 expression was significantly (p Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that increase in the GRP78 expression is associated with ovarian malignant transformation, and this enhanced expression may stimulate ovarian tumor-associated neoangiogenesis. Thus GRP78 in combination with VEGFR-2 may constitute an early detection test for OVCA. These results will constitute a foundation for a clinical study to establish an early detection test for OVCA. Support: DOD Award # W81XWH-11-1-0510. Citation Format: Doungkamol Alongkronrusmee, Pincas Bitterman, Jacques S. Abramowicz, Janice M. Bahr, Sanjib Basu, Salvatore Grasso, Sameer Sharma, Jacob Rotmensch, Animesh Barua. GRP78 in association with VEGFR-2 detects early stage ovarian cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4642. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-4642
PS-175 The Value Of Sonography In Diagnosing Paediatric Necrotizing Pneumonia

Background Lung ultrasonography (LUS) is advocated as a tool in diagnosis of paediatric community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). Necrotizing pneumonia, a complication of paediatric CAP, is usually diagnosed by using chest computed tomography (CT). The aim of our study was to evaluate the value of LUS in diagnosis and outcome prediction of paediatric necrotizing pneumonia. Materials and methods Children, being underwent LUS and diagnosed with CAP, were enrolled. The image findings of enrollers, who receiving chest CT within 5 days, were then analysed for the agreement between LUS and CT. Predictors of clinical outcome were further investigated using the characteristics of LUS. Results Among children (n = 236) with CAP and undergoing LUS, 96 children also received chest CT within 5 days. High agreement between decreased-to-poor perfusion in LUS and moderate-to massive necrosis in CT was disclosed (k = 0.668). Children, presenting decreased-to-poor perfusion and hypoechoic spaces in LUS, were highly risky for pneumatocele formation (odds ratio 10.11; 95% CI, 2. 95–34.64) and rescue surgical lung resection (odds ratio 8.28; 95% CI, 1. 86–36.93). Longer hospital stay can be predicted if decreased-to-poor perfusion and moderate-to-massive pleural effusion were found in LUS (odds ratio 3.08, 95% CI, 1. 15–8.29). Conclusion LUS offers substantial concordance with chest CT in diagnosis of paediatric CAP with necrotizing change. Some characteristics of LUS, such as impaired perfusion and hypoechoic spaces, provide good prediction of poor clinical outcome. It should be routinely used in the clinical care of paediatric CAP.
Single-particle excitations in 89Y.

Inelastic-electron-scattering cross sections have been measured for the first three excitations in $^{89}\mathrm{Y}$ at forward angles for momentum transfers of 1.25q3.01 ${\mathrm{fm}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$ and at 180\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} for 0.72q2.67 ${\mathrm{fm}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$. Transition charge and current densities extracted in a Fourier-Bessel analysis of all existing cross sections show considerable departures from the single-particle model. The inclusion of core polarization from the operator renormalization approximation for shell models gives good agreement with experimental results.
Influences of High-Flow Events on a Stream Channel Altered by Construction of a Highway Bridge: A Case Study

Impacts of highway construction on streams in the central Appalachians are a growing concern as new roads are created to promote tourism and economic development in the area. Alterations to the streambed of a fi rst-order stream, Sauer- kraut Run, Hardy County, WV, during construction of a highway overpass included placement and removal of a temporary culvert, straightening and regrading of a sec- tion of stream channel, and armourment of a bank with a reinforced gravel berm. We surveyed longitudinal profi les and cross sections in a reference reach and the altered reach of Sauerkraut Run from 2003 through 2007 to measure physical changes in the streambed. During the four-year period, three high-fl ow events changed the stream- bed downstream of construction including channel widening and aggradation and then degradation of the streambed. Upstream of construction, at a reinforced gravel berm, bank erosion was documented. The reference section remained relatively un- changed. Knowledge gained by documenting channel changes in response to natural and anthropogenic variables can be useful for managers and engineers involved in highway construction projects.
Dystrophin deficiency causes lethal muscle hypertrophy in cats.

Abstract Two 5-month-old male Domestic Shorthair littermates showed general skeletal muscle hypertrophy, multifocal submucosal lingual calcification with lingual enlargement, and excessive salivation. Both cats had a reduced level of activity, walked with a stiff gait, and tended to “bunny hop” when they ran. These clinical features were similar to those of previously reported dystrophin-deficient cats. Using multiple dystrophin antibodies, we found that the cats described in this report also showed marked dystrophin deficiency. The histopathology was remarkable for hypertrophy and splitting of fibers, and progressive accumulation of calcium deposits within the muscle. There was little or no endomysial fibrosis at 2 years of age. The natural history of dystrophin-deficiency in cats has not been described: both previous cats had been euthanized at 2 years of age prior to experiencing any life-threatening problems. At 6 months of age, one of the new cats developed megaesophagus because of severe progressive hypertrophy of the diaphragmatic muscles. The diaphragm completely occluded the esophagus, and the cat was euthanized for humane reasons. The second cat remained in good condition until age 18 months when it developed acute renal failure attributed to severe prolonged dehydration and hyperosmolality. The cat recovered after receiving supportive treatment but was unable to maintain fluid homeostasis. The insufficient water intake was attributed to glossal hypertrophy and dysfunction. At age 2 years, the cat received regular subcutaneous injections of low-sodium fluids to maintain proper hydration. The clinical consequence of dystrophin deficiency in cats is lethal muscle hypertrophy. We have called the feline disease “hypertrophic feline muscular dystrophy” (HFMD).
Are we aware of neural activity in primary visual cortex

It is usually assumed that people are visually aware of at least some of the neuronal activity in the primary visual area, V1, of the neocortex. But the neuroanatomy of the macaque monkey suggests that, although primates may be aware of neural activity in other visual cortical areas, they are not directly aware of that in area V1. There is some psychophysical evidence in humans that supports this hypothesis.
Cervical arthroplasty: a success, failure, or both?

COMMENTARY ON: Lee JH, Jung TG, Kim HS, et al. Analysis of the incidence and clinical effect of the heterotopic ossification in a single-level cervical artificial disc replacement. Spine J 2010;10:676–82 ( in this issue ).
Alternate Hybrid-Stress Elements for Analysis of Multilayer Composite Plates

Two quadrilateral-shaped multilayer plate bending/stretching elements based on the assumed-stress hybrid finite-element model are presented. These elements may be applied to the analysis of fiber composite plates and shells composed of an arbitrary number of layers and arbitrary mate rial properties and fiber direction within each layer. Both elements incor porate the effects of transverse shear by including the transverse shear stresses τxz and τyz, and by assuming independent rotations of the normals to the plate midsurface, so that normals to the midsurface in the un deformed state need not be normal to the midsurface after deformation. In the formulation of an element based on the assumed-stress hybrid model, the stress distribution in the interior of the element is expressed in terms of a finite number of stress parameters such that equilibrium is satisfied, and the displacement distribution on the boundary of the element is expressed in terms of generalized nodal displacements such that interelement...
Microstructure of thin iron carbide films prepared in a glow discharge

Abstract Thin (50–80 nm) iron carbide films were grown on carbon-coated copper grids in an r.f. glow discharge using iron pentacarbonyl and hydrogen as starting materials. The substrate temperatures were varied in the range 200–500 °C. The microstructure and phases present in these films are compared with the corresponding results previously obtained by X-ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and Auger electron spectroscopy for thick (200–1100 nm) films grown on glass substrates. Transmission electron microscopy studies show that the 50–80 nm films contain a mixture of phases at all deposition temperatures. Transmission electron micrographs of annealed films and films deposited at high temperatures show a clear indication of grain growth.
Morphology and function of the feeding apparatus in Dermophis mexicanus (Amphibia: Gymnophiona)

The morphology and mechanics of feeding in Dermophis mexicanus were studied using descriptive anatomical, cinematographic and electromyographic approaches. The lower jaw has a retroarticular process extending one-third of the total jaw length, and an articulation that restricts anteroposterior movements. Muscles from three anatomically distinct sites, the temporal fossa, the lateral surface of the neck, and the subvertebral region, act to execute the bite during feeding on earthworms. Muscles in the first of these sites are comparable to the jaw adductors of other vertebrates, while those in the second two represent morphological and functional departures. The large interhyoideus muscle and the elongate retroarticular process are modified to function in jaw closing. The longus capitis muscles appear to act to depress the cranium at the cranio-vertebral joint, a motion that occurs simultaneously with maximum jaw closing. The latter two muscles appear to have greater importance for feeding in Dermophis than do the temporal adductors, and the evolution of this specialized arrangement may be related to the demands for a reduced cross-sectional area of the head in these burrowing vertebrates.
Critical issues with clinical research in children: the example of premature infants.

Abstract Research in pediatrics has led to marked improvements in survival in pediatric patients. In no other age group have these improvements been more dramatic than in neonatology, where antenatal steroid administration to mothers and postnatal utilization of surfactant have led to marked improvements in survival so that infants born at 24 weeks gestation now have a greater than 50% chance of survival. Unfortunately, more than 50% of these patients develop significant complications of prematurity with potential long-term impact on the health of these infants. Therefore, additional research must be done in these patients to prevent these complications or reduce the impact of these complications. There are many practical and some ethical issues that could impede research in the area. Interventional studies have succeeded because literally decades of research defined unequivocally the pathophysiology of diseases such as surfactant deficiency in RDS. Unfortunately, the pathophysiology leading to the complications of prematurity has been extrapolated from old concepts without verification as the population has become smaller and more premature than the previous era. Thus, an extremely important practical issue in pediatric research is whether to design interventions to address the extrapolated pathophysiology risking misinterpretations of the results of such studies. Or should our efforts be focused on defining endpoints associated with the development of diseases and complications which may define pathophysiology more completely but delay the design of interventions to improve the outcomes of patients. Another crucial practical issue in pediatric research is how to power studies so that interventions can be studied adequately. In the US, large neonatal networks have been formed so that large databases can be created and large multi-center trials can be performed. The practical issues associated with these network studies is the center to center variability in patient care may dwarf the beneficial effect of the intervention on the disease process, so that a “negative” study of an intervention may not represent the true effect of the intervention in the disease process. These practical issues among others will be the focus of this review.
Multidrug resistance gene family and chemical carcinogens

Abstract The data discussed in this review indicate that the coordinated induction of both the mdr gene family and a subfamily of the cytochrome P-450 supergene family provide a unified response of the organism to prevent lethal accumulation of xenobiotics. Consequently, a distinct physiological role for the mdr multigene family now exists. Furthermore, recent evidence suggests the existence of multiple receptors with overlapping substrate specificity that are involved in the induction of both mdr and P-4501A gene families. The increased expression of mdr gene(s) in the early stages of liver carcinogenesis and presumably in other tissues is associated with the development of xenobiotic resistance that is observed in the preneoplastic cell populations. These observations may have important clinical implications and may provide an explanation for resistance to chemotherapy of tumors in organs such as liver and colon that are frequently exposed to both environmental and dietary xenobiotics.
An implicit numerical solver for nonlinear hyperbolic partial differential equations

Abstract In this article nonlinear hyperbolic partial differential equations have been approximated by implicit finite difference schemes and solved by perturbed functionals. The method has a superlinear rate of convergence and uses linearization only along the diagonal which is damped out as solution is found. No factorization of matrices or computation of Jacobians was needed. The code solves models with both continuous and discontinuous solutions.
Genetic variants in DNA repair pathways are not associated with disease progression among multiple myeloma patients

Abstract DNA damage induced by high dose melphalan and autologous transplantation is repaired by the nucleotide excision repair (NER) and base excision repair (BER) pathways. We evaluated the association between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) ( n = 311) in the NER and BER pathways and disease progression in 695 multiple myeloma patients who underwent autologous transplantation. None of the SNPs were associated with disease progression. Pathway based analyses showed that the NER pathway had a borderline association with disease progression ( p = 0.09). These findings suggest that common variation in the NER and BER pathways do not substantially influence disease progression in multiple myeloma patients.
Identification of lutein, a dietary antioxidant carotenoid in guinea pig tissues.

Abstract Lutein, a dietary carotenoid, is a well known antioxidant. The major source of this carotenoid in humans is diet. We report here the presence of lutein, a dietary carotenoid in several guinea pig tissues (in decreasing order: liver > spleen > lung ≫ testis > kidney > plasma > eye but not in white adipose tissue). The presence of lutein in lung and other tissues may be significant in term of its antioxidant capacity of these organs.
VapA-specific IgG and IgG subclasses responses after natural infection and experimental challenge of foals with Rhodococcus equi

Rhodococcus equi is a common cause of pneumonia in young foals worldwide and has considerable economic effects on the global equine industry. Despite ongoing efforts, no vaccine is currently available to prevent rhodococaal pneumonia. This is due, in part, to an incomplete understanding of the protective immune response to this bacterium. While antibodies to VapA, a lipoprotein produced by virulent R. equi, are useful in differentiating antibody production in response to pathogenic versus non-pathogenic strains, the significance of the humoral response of foals to this lipoprotein remains poorly defined. The objectives of this study were to evaluate changes in VapA-specific IgG and IgG subclasses after exposure and infection of neonatal foals. Experimental foals included those challenged with R. equi at 1 (n=18), 2 (n=4) and 3 (n=6) weeks of age. Confirmed naturally infected (n=7) and not infected (n=3) foals were also included. All foals were bled 24h after birth and weekly thereafter for a period of 8 weeks. Antibody changes over time were evaluated. Following birth, VapA-specific IgGs significantly (p<0.05) decreased over time in all foals as a result of normal decay of passively transferred antibodies. Both VapA-specific IgGa and IgG(T) significantly increased (p<0.05) after experimental challenge, however, the rise in IgG(T) occurred earlier. Only a significant (p<0.05) increase in VapA-specific IgG(T) over time was seen after natural infection. Whether VapA-specific IgG(T) can be used to differentiate rhodococcal from other pneumonias requires further investigation under field conditions.
On dynamic stress concentrations in elastic plates

Abstract Use is made of an approximate two dimensional plate theory, which takes into account some aspects of the plate thickness, to study the reflection of an infinite train of extensional waves from a circular traction free boundary. The results are investigated to see under what conditions these results can be brought into analytic agreement with those predicted by generalized plane stress theory when the latter is used to solve the same problem.
Formal mechanisms of affective experience: outline for a formal theory of affect.

Abstract The affects and emotions, the former more subjective, the latter more associated with bodily changes and better explored as a neurohumoral state of affairs, yet at times interchangeably referred to, have been variously conceived of as quantities or discharges of psychic energy; 1 as flow of psychic energy; 1 as accompaniments of instinctual impulses; 1 as behavior confined to the subject's body, particularly the visceral and glandular systems; 1 as “forces” combined into “composite resultants”; 1 to mention only the better known views. The general tendency today is to view affects as unable to reach any degree of structural organization, similar to that of cognition, beyond the level of classifications based on secondary intellectual reflections. Piaget has been the only investigator to formulate a theory of affect as a particular psychological structure obeying its own formal laws. This paper attempts to expand on some of Piaget's basic ideas and outline a formal theory of affect applying to normality as well as psychopathology.
Surgical mortality in patients with infected aortic aneurysms

Abstract Background Mortality in patients with infected aortic aneurysms remains high. A number of patient- and infection-specific risk factors for death have been proposed, but none is consistently predictive of poor outcomes. The purpose of this study was to examine the possible contribution of infection-related risk factors and the systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) to outcomes of patients with infected aortic aneurysms. Study design Ten patients with infected aortic aneurysms presenting to our institution over a recent 6-year period were studied. Collected data included aneurysm location, culture results, preoperative indicators of SIRS, operative details, and outcomes. Results Common presenting symptoms included abdominal or back pain and fevers. Aneurysms involved the thoracoabdominal aorta in four patients, the suprarenal aorta in one, the juxtarenal aorta in one, and the infrarenal aorta in four. Seven patients met criteria for SIRS. Repairs included in situ replacement of the infected aneurysm using rifampin-soaked, gel-impregnated Dacron in four patients with thoracoabdominal aneurysms and using autogenous superficial femoral-popliteal vein in five patients with infrarenal aneurysms. Four patients died of sepsis, and six patients survived to discharge after a mean of 23 ± 12 days in the hospital, followed by extensive rehabilitation. The combination of SIRS and suprarenal extension was present in all four patients who died. Conclusions Although rare, infected aortic aneurysms are associated with marked morbidity and mortality. Sepsis is the leading cause of death. A combination of host- and infection-specific variables may be more predictive of outcomes than any single risk factor. Prolonged hospitalization and extended rehabilitation are frequently required in survivors, but longterm outlook is good after successful treatment.
Multiple Facets of Exploratory Behavior in House Crickets (Acheta domesticus): Split Personalities or Simply Different Behaviors?

Behavioral ecologists are increasingly interested in patterns of repeatable variation in behaviors. The study of this variation, under the label ‘animal personality’, frequently makes assumptions both in regards to what the ecological significance of particular behavioral responses might be and whether different methodologies in fact test the same behavior. Here, using house crickets (Acheta domesticus), we tested whether stereotypical approaches to quantifying repeatable variation in exploratory behavior measured the same behaviors. We found that house cricket exploratory behavior was highly repeatable in two populations (repeatability: 0.37–0.51). However, exploratory behavior across two different testing methods was not strongly correlated (r = −0.17 to 0.14). This suggests that either different behaviors or distinct components of exploratory behavior were being measured. Our results also support recent criticisms that care needs to be taken in describing personality traits.
Extended Life-Span and Stress Resistance in the Drosophila Mutant methuselah

Toward a genetic dissection of the processes involved in aging, a screen for gene mutations that extend life-span in Drosophila melanogaster was performed. The mutant line methuselah(mth) displayed approximately 35 percent increase in average life-span and enhanced resistance to various forms of stress, including starvation, high temperature, and dietary paraquat, a free-radical generator. The mth gene predicted a protein with homology to several guanosine triphosphate–binding protein–coupled seven–transmembrane domain receptors. Thus, the organism may use signal transduction pathways to modulate stress response and life-span.
High-level coupled-cluster methods for electron spin resonance spectra: on the experimental spectrum of the silacyclobutane radical cation.

The silacyclobutane radical cation is a prototype intermediate in chemical reactions involving Si based organic molecules. In the interest of its full characterization, the experimentally determined isotropic hyperfine coupling constants of the hydrogens in silacyclobutane radical cation (c-SiC 3 + ) have raised some interesting questions, leading to different interpretations of the spectrum. To help resolve this discrepancy, we report very high-level theoretical results with coupled-cluster theory using its analytical, response density matrix procedure, and recently proposed basis sets that are specific to ESR. The detailed studies of geometries, basis set effects, and electron correlation tend to support the B3LYP/6-3 1G**-based reassignment of the ESR spectrum of the c-SiC 3 + radical cation by Fangstrom et al.
Thermal shock behavior of fiber-reinforced ceramic matrix composites☆

Abstract Theoretical aspects of thermal shock behavior of ceramics are reviewed to form a basis for assessing the thermal shock behavior of ceramic composites. This background is then used to study the influence of fiber type and method of composite fabrication on the thermal shock behavior of 2-D fiber-reinforced ceramic composites. Thermal shock tests are performed using a water quench technique, and thermal shock damage is characterized by both destructive and non-destructive techniques. It is shown that the composites possess superior resistance to thermal shock damage than the monolithic ceramics. Catastrophic failure due to severe thermal stresses is prevented in composites and a significant portion of their original strength is retained. These results along with an analysis of the thermal shock damage mechanism based on the destructive and nondestructive tests are described.
A Dimensioning Study for UMTS Core Networks

Current literature provides many practical tools and theoretical methods to design, plan, and dimension Global System for Mobile Communications GSM and Universal Mobile Telecommunications System UMTS radio networks but overlooks the algorithms of network planning and dimensioning for core networks of GSM, UMTS and IP Multimedia Subsystem IMS. This paper introduces an algorithm for traffic, bandwidth and throughput dimensioning of the network entities in the UMTS core network, based on the traffic and throughput generated or absorbed in the interfaces of the network entities. A case study is provided to verify the algorithms created for UMTS core network. This paper helps UMTS network operators dimension and build an optimum network to deliver the best quality of service for users. The algorithms developed in the paper have been successfully applied in dimensioning a nationwide UMTS network in North Africa and adopted in an optimization tool by a mobile operator in the United States in 2008-2009.
A representative of a new class of conducting oligomer: acetylene-terminated polyaniline

Abstract We present the first synthesis of acetylene-terminated polyaniline oligomers (ATPAs) by two chemical methods. One method, a modified Moore—Honzl—Wudl synthesis, involves the condensation of p -phenylenediamine (PDA) with 2,5-dioxo-1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid, followed by endcapping with 3-ethynylaniline (EA) and subsequent air oxidation. The other, more convenient, method is based on a modified Manassen—Khalif Schiff-base approach involving the condensation of PDA with commercially available 1,4-cyclohexanedione, followed by endcapping with EA and subsequent air oxidation. Both methods give oligomers with molecular weight distributions. The ATPAs have been characterized by FT-IR, UV—Vis, 1 H NMR, MS and ESR methods. Bronsted acid doping gives conducting ATPAs (up to 10 −2 S/cm). The results of comparative studies of the ATPAs prepared by both methods are presented.
Development and use of clickable activity based protein profiling agents for protein arginine deiminase 4.

The Protein Arginine Deiminases (PAD), which catalyze the hydrolysis of peptidyl-arginine to form peptidyl-citrulline, are potential targets for the development of a Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) therapeutic, as well as other human diseases including colitis and cancer. Additionally, these enzymes, and in particular PAD4, appear to play important roles in a variety of cell signaling pathways including apoptosis, differentiation, and transcriptional regulation. To better understand the factors that regulate in vivo PAD4 activity, we set out to design and synthesize a series of activity-based protein profiling (ABPP) reagents that target this enzyme. Herein we describe the design, synthesis and evaluation of six ABPPs including (i) FITC conjugated F-amidine (FFA1 and 2) and Cl-amidine (FCA1 and 2), and (ii) biotin conjugated F-amidine (BFA) and Cl-amidine (BCA). We further demonstrate the utility of these probes for labeling PAD4 in cells, as well as for isolating PAD4 and PAD4 binding proteins. These probes will undoubtedly prove to be powerful tools that can be used to dissect the factors controlling the dynamics of PAD4 expression, activity and function.
Why does my patient have thrombocytopenia

Thrombocytopenia, usually defined as a platelet count of less than 150,000/μL, is a common reason for a hematology consult in both the inpatient and outpatient setting. In most patients, the cause of the thrombocytopenia can be identified and treated. This article reviews the clinical approach to the patient with thrombocytopenia, the mechanisms that underlie it, and the laboratory tests available to investigate it. A practical approach to the investigation and management of thrombocytopenia in the clinical settings commonly encountered by the hematology consultant is then described.
Recognition and repair of the cyclobutane thymine dimer, a major cause of skin cancers, by the human excision nuclease

The cyclobutane thymine dimer is the major DNA lesion induced in human skin by sunlight and is a primary cause of skin cancer, the most prevalent form of cancer in the Northern Hemisphere. In humans, the only known cellular repair mechanism for eliminating the dimer from DNA is nucleotide excision repair. Yet the mechanism by which the dimer is recognized and removed by this repair system is not known. Here we demonstrate that the six-factor human excision nuclease recognizes and removes the dimer at a rate consistent with the in vivo rate of removal of this lesion, even though none of the six factors alone is capable of efficiently discriminating the dimer from undamaged DNA. We propose a recognition mechanism by which the low-specificity recognition factors, RPA, XPA, and XPC, act in a cooperative manner to locate the lesion and, aided by the kinetic proofreading provided by TFIIH, form a high-specificity complex at the damage site that initiates removal of thymine dimers at a physiologically relevant rate and specificity.
Energetic materials: α‐NTO crystallizes as a four‐component triclinic twin

The prevalent polymorph of the energetic material 5-nitro-2,4-dihydro-1,2,4,-triazol-3-one, α-NTO, crystallizes as a four-component twin with triclinic symmetry (space group P\bar 1). All crystals under investigation were fourlings, i.e. they contained each of the four possible twin components. Complete data sets were collected for two crystals, one with a predominant amount of one individual component (55%) and one with approximately equal volumes of each component. In both cases the fourling components are related by the twofold axes inherent in the holohedral symmetry of a pseudo-orthorhombic superlattice with ao = at, bo = bt and co = at + bt + 2ct. The triclinic unit cell contains four crystallographically independent planar molecules in the asymmetric unit, each of which forms a hydrogen-bonded flat chain parallel to at. Pairs of chains are combined into planar ribbons by additional hydrogen bonds. Thus, two independent ribbons extend parallel to at, creating a dihedral angle of ∼ 70°. The origin of the twinning is derived from consideration of the crystal packing and the hydrogen-bonding scheme.
An application of truth functional logic to concept-attainment experiments

Abstract A logical model of concept attainment that generates all the simplest concepts satisfying arbitrary sets of positive and negative instances is described. The model can determine either completely or incompletely specified conjunctive or disjunctive concepts for problems with all-positive, all-negative, or mixed positive and negative instantiation. The model is based on a generalization of the logical problem of simplifying truth functions that consists of determining classes of simplest normal formulas equivalent to an incompletely specified truth function. Empirical results with simple problems showed consistent attainment of concepts to about the same extent regardless of the type of instantiation or number of alternative correct concepts. It is also pointed out that some previously suggested empirical “strategies” are useful only in restricted experimental situations. The chief limitation of the present model is its current restriction to instances with two-valued dimensions.
Modeling of dislocation-grain boundary interactions in FCC metals

In this paper recent 2D and 3D computational modeling studies of the interaction between dislocations and grain boundaries (GB) in FCC metals will be presented. 2D simulations of lattice dislocation interaction with Sigma 11 tilt GB's in Al are presented and discussed. Studies of a Sigma 11 symmetric tilt GB reveal that transmitted dislocations result in local GB migration and disconnection formation. A classical elastic analysis makes correct predictions in one case but not another. Glissile GB dislocations are created in this process, which means that part of the transmitted dislocation is absorbed. Calculations of lattice dislocations interacting with a Sigma 11 asymmetric tilt GB show that the nature of the interaction depends on local GB structure and energy and transmission is observed in some cases to occur on planes that do not have the highest resolved glide stress. Results of large-scale 3D molecular dynamic simulations are also described, investigating the interaction between dislocations nucleating from a crack tip and a number of symmetric tilt BG's in Ni. Using a line-tension model to analyze the data, it is found that the outcomes of dislocation-GB collisions can be rationalized in terms of only three geometrical parameters, in accordance with in situmore » TEM observations.« less
A Geopolitics of Engagement: Neoliberalism, the War on Terrorism, and the Reconfiguration of US Immigration Enforcement

In addition to a geopolitics of containment model of immigration policing at the Mexico-US border, US immigration-related statecraft has incorporated a geopolitics of engagement model in which spaces previously at arms reach from US immigration authorities and at some remove from the border have been aggressively brought into the purview of US immigration enforcement. These newly engaged spaces are at once local (i.e., US cities) and regional (i.e., Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean Basin). This shift has in large part been a response to the tension between trade and security at the border, and thus allows us to see differently how statecraft is being multiplied, reactivated and transformed at and away from the border in light of the war on terrorism and its complex relationship with economic globalisation and the neoliberalisation of the Mexico-US border region.
Prediction and measurement of ignition temperatures of coal particles

Ignition temperatures of one bituminous coal, one anthracite, and three chars have been measured at 5 particle sizes in the range of 60 to 230 microns by injecting small quantities into an electric tube furnace. The technique determined the lowest air temperature (Tg,i) required for ignition, and the results were used to verify a theoretical preiction for the variation of Tg,i with diameter based on a modification of the Semenov thermal explosion analysis. As predicted, Tg,i rose with decreasing diameter, and the quantitative verification permitted determination of the activation energies, frequency factors, and specific reaction rates for the different fuels. With these coefficients determined, the particle ignition temperatures, Ti, were calculated. The activation energies ranged from 19 to 29 kcal/mole; these are interpreted as implying heterogeneous ignition in carbon-reaction Zone II (partial penetration of the reaction zone). Heterogeneous ignition had to be true of the chars. It was notable that there was no evident differentiation of ignition temperature between the coals and chars, with more variation due to diameter than due to fuel type. There was a similar small variation in the specific reaction rates, with all being in the region of 10−4 g/cm2 sec, which is in agreement with a value extrapolated from data given by Smith (22). This supports the accuracy of the measured ignition temperatures which, being in the range of 700±50° K, are considerably lower than the few previously-published values of any validity; they are however, in line with commercial practice for safe operation of pulverized coal mills.
Measurement of Aromatic Air Pollutants by In Situ IR Spectroscopy of Activated Carbon

Activated carbon is a microporous solid that can be made with an extremely high internal surface area. Because it retains a wide variety of organic substances, the thermochemistry of activated carbon has been extensively characterized, especially as it relates to the adsorption of air and water contaminants. Activated carbon is generally amorphous, without regular carbon structure or pore shape, and the micro-carbon structures and surfaces which are responsible for the adsorption characteristics of these carbons are not well understood because, in part, there is a lack of spectroscopic methods that are sensitive to the microscopic morphology of amorphous carbons. [Spectroscopic methods such as IR, Raman, x-ray diffraction, and EXAFS provide little information about the molecular structure of the carbon unless it has a graphitic or diamond component which is large in extent. At best, micrographitic domains of approximately 10-20 A (diameter) are inferred from the Raman spectrum of some activated carbons.]
Computerized Accommodated Percentage Evaluation: Review and Prospectus

Abstract : This report reviews about a dozen past and current research efforts employing Monte Carlo 'computerized accommodated percentage evaluation' (CAPE) models. The CAPE class of models estimate the effects of imposed limits of the accommodated proportion of a population. Most extensively used in studies of aircraft cockpit and related workplace design, the model has been applied to other areas as well. Four validation studies, five completed application investigations, and three on-going application efforts are described. Prospects for future applications are also briefly discussed.
Fluorometric analysis of 2-thiobarbituric acid reactive substances in turkey

Three experiments were conducted to develop a sensitive and reliable fluorometric thiobarbituric acid (TBA) reactive substances (TBARS) method to determine lipid oxidation products in meat. The first study was conducted to find the optimum sample preparation conditions for meat in the fluorometric method. The second study was to compare the original and the modified methods by using meat and blood samples. The modified fluorometric method was compared with a conventional spectrophotometric method in a third study. Four different extraction solutions (2.5 M acetic acid, 0.5 M hydrochloric acid, 0.8 M perchloric acid, and 1.4 M trichloroacetic acid) and two ratios of extraction solution to TBA (20 mM) solutions (2:1 and 1:1) were examined in the first study. Hydrochloric acid was the optimum among the four extraction solutions tested, and the ratio of extraction solution to TBA solution at 1:1 was the best for the fluorometric TBARS method in raw ground turkey. The modified fluorometric method had high recovery rates (91%, average), and the regression coefficient of the standard curve prepared with spikes was also high (r2 = 0.99). The analysis of raw meat and plasma samples indicated that the modified fluorometric method had greater sensitivity than the original method. The pH of the reaction mixture played an important role in extraction TBARS from samples, and low pH conditions were preferable to high pH conditions. The amount of lipid oxidation products in raw turkey breast meat indicated that the fluorometric method had much greater sensitivity than the spectrophotometric method. The results from the three studies showed that the modified fluorometric TBARS method was useful for the samples with low lipid oxidation products, such as fresh raw meat. The sensitivity of the modified fluorometric method also facilitates the determination of oxidation products in small quantities of samples.
Linkage disequilibrium across the UGT1A locus should not be ignored in association studies of cancer susceptibility.

The study by Wang et al. [(1)][1] reported an association between human UGT1A7 gene polymorphisms and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Japanese patients with hepatitis C virus infection. The authors observed a significantly higher frequency of UGT1A7\*1/\*3 and UGT1A7\*2/\*3 genotypes/diplotypes in