cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The effect of the implementation of the Affordable Care Act in the early diagnosis of type I endometrial cancer

Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine the effect of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), implemented in 2014, on the stage at which Type I Endometrial Cancer (EC) was diagnosed. Methods: Patients with Type I Endometrial cancer diagnosed based on surgical pathology at University Hospital between 2008 and 2018 were included in this study. We had complete data regarding age, race, insurance status, race and ethnicity, stage, grade, and year of diagnosis. The patients were split into those diagnosed prior to 2014 (pre-ACA), and those diagnosed in or after 2014 (post-ACA). Numerical variables were compared using a two-sided t-test or Wilcoxon rank-sum test as appropriate. Categorical variables were compared using Chi-square test or Fischer's exact test as appropriate. Results: There were 547 women that were included in our study. 232 (42.4%) women were diagnosed pre-ACA and 315 (57.6%) diagnosed post-ACA. The median ages were 54 (22-91) years and 59 (27-87) years in the pre-ACA and post-ACA groups respectively. Mean body mass index (BMI) was 38.9 kg/m2 (SD 9.95 kg/m2) in the pre-ACA women and was 39.2 kg/m2 (SD 9.81 kg/m2) in the post-ACA women (P=0.011). A Chi-square test was used to compare insurance coverage including private insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, local community payment plans (Carelink), or uninsured in the pre-ACA and post-ACA that was statistically significant (χ2 (5, 547) = 22.304, p= Download : Download high-res image (147KB) Download : Download full-size image Conclusions: Patient's diagnosed with Type I Endometrial Cancer were more likely to have insurance and be diagnosed at an earlier stage of disease after the implementation of the Affordable Care Act.
Human papillomavirus-independent cervical cancer: what are the implications?

We would like to congratulate Dr Fernandes and colleagues on their excellent and thorough review of human papillomavirus (HPV)-independent cervical cancer.[1][1] While the majority of cervical cancers have been shown to be caused by HPV, several studies have reported HPV-independent disease. It is
Chemical probing of conformation in large RNA molecules. Analysis of 16 S ribosomal RNA using diethylpyrocarbonate.

Abstract Peattie & Gilbert (1980) have described an accurate and rapid gel method for assessing conformation of individual nucleotides in RNA, based on chemical modification of bases and aniline-induced strand scission. In order to extend this approach to analysis of large RNA molecules, we introduce the use of hybridization of modified RNA with DNA restriction fragments to generate RNA fragments of defined length. In principle, this permits chemical probing of conformation at any position of any RNA molecule for which a cloned DNA coding sequence is available. To illustrate the utility of this method, we use diethylpyrocarbonate to probe the reactivities of adenine residues in Escherichia coli 16 S rRNA under “native” (80 m m -potassium cacodylate (pH 7.0), 20 m m -MgCl 2 , 300 m m -KCl) and “quasisecondary” (80 m m -potassium cacodylate (pH 7.0), 1 m m -EDTA) conditions. This study shows that: (1) there is generally good agreement between diethylpyrocarbonate reactivities of adenine residues in naked 16 S rRNA and a secondary structure model based on comparative sequence analysis; of 309 adenine residues probed under native conditions, only four strongly reactive residues are found in helices in the model. (2) Candidates for possible tertiary interactions are identified as adenine residues that are unpaired in the model and unreactive toward diethylpyrocarbonate under native conditions but reactive under quasi-secondary conditions. (3) An unexpectedly stable structure has been identified in the region between positions 109 and 279, where many adenine residues remain unreactive even at 90 °C in 80 m m -potassium cacodylate, 1 m m -EDTA. This may correspond to a structural “core” that is important for early events in ribosome assembly.
Breastfeeding: maintaining an irreplaceable immunological resource

Breastfeeding — the main source of active and passive immunity in the vulnerable early months and years of life — is considered to be the most effective preventive means of reducing the death rate of children under five. Given this, one must wonder why it has slipped quietly down the priorities of the global health and development agendas. In this era of public–private partnerships, can its role as an irreplaceable immunological resource help keep it at the top of global agendas?
Fast Food, Zoning, and the Dormant Commerce Clause: Was It Something I Ate?

The obesity rate has risen to epidemic proportions in the United States. Fast food restaurants have recently come under scrutiny for their contribution to the growth of America’s waistlines. Communities across the country, recognizing obesity as a issue of serious public health concern, are looking for innovative ways to halt the increasing rate of obesity. One such method is the use of zoning to exclude fast food restaurants entirely, as a matter of public health. Zoning regulations of this type, however, may confront challenges under the dormant commerce clause, which restricts the power of states to burden interstate commerce.
Laser Spectroscopy of Bound NaNe and Related Atomic Physics

Tunable lasers are revolutionizing liatomic molecular spectroscopy. Their high resolution (anything <0.02 cm−1 = 600 MHz by conventional standards) can resolve the rotational spectra of the heaviest diatomics and reveals a constellation of fine and hyperfine magnetic and electric structure; their high intensity permits observation of two quantum absorption, saturation labeling of spectra (e.g. double resonance), optical pumping of molecules, and the observation of extremely low concentrations of molecules. Finally the frequency of laser light can be determined interferometrically or by heterodyne techniques—both being far more accurate than the conventional methods of grating spectroscopy.
Synergistic effect of tumor necrosis factor-alpha- and diphtheria toxin-mediated cytotoxicity in sensitive and resistant human ovarian tumor cell lines.

Recent studies have demonstrated that diphtheria toxin (DTX) also mediates target cell lysis, and the mechanism of cytotoxicity has many features similar to those of cytotoxicity mediated by TNF-alpha. Thus, we hypothesized that DTX and TNF-alpha, used in combination, may result in either additive or synergistic cytotoxic activity. This was examined on three human ovarian carcinoma cell lines chosen for their differing sensitivities to TNF-alpha and DTX, i.e., 222, which is sensitive to both TNF-alpha and DTX, 222TR, a TNF-alpha-resistant DTX-sensitive variant of 222, and SKOV-3, which is resistant to both DTX and TNF-alpha. The simultaneous use of DTX and TNF-alpha at suboptimal concentrations resulted in synergistic cytotoxic activity against all three lines tested, thus overcoming the TNF-alpha resistance of 222TR and the double resistance of SKOV-3. DNA fragmentation was observed in all three lines treated with DTX and TNF-alpha and occurred as early as 4 h after treatment. Cycloheximide, actinomycin D, or emetine, at concentrations causing greater than 90% protein synthesis inhibition, did not result in cytotoxicity alone or synergy with TNF-alpha, suggesting that synergy by DTX was not due to its ability to inhibit protein synthesis. The use of energy poisons and pH conditions that inhibit DTX-mediated cytotoxicity resulted in the abrogation of synergy. These findings show that the two cytotoxic agents TNF-alpha and DTX, when used at suboptimal concentrations, synergize in their cytotoxic activity against sensitive and resistant cell lines. Because the SKOV-3 cell line used here is also resistant to chemotherapeutic drugs, combination treatment with DTX and TNF-alpha may be beneficial in overcoming drug resistance.
MANAGEMENT OF ACUTE SHOULDER PAIN IN AN ADOLESCENT LACROSSE ATHLETE: A CASE REPORT

UNLABELLED Acute onset of shoulder pain in adolescent athletes typically is related to trauma. The subject of this case report, a 13 year-old male, was injured when he collided with another athlete while his right arm was extended. He experienced immediate onset of significant right shoulder pain. Manual assessment in the emergency department revealed anterior tenderness and loss of function due to pain - most notably limitations in both active internal rotation and abduction. A plain film showed a radiographic density anterior to the humeral head but a donation site (where a bony avulsion may have occurred) was not delineated. Magnetic resonance imaging clearly identified a lesser tuberosity avulsion (thus the site of origin of the bony material) encompassing the insertion of the subscapularis muscle with retraction of approximately one centimeter. Open surgical repair (reduction and fixation) was performed with excellent results. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 5 (Single Case report).
The Use of Herpes Simplex Virus in Ex Vivo Slice Culture

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) can be used for a wide range of genetic manipulations in ex vivo slices of central nervous system tissue from both young and adult rodents. The fast expression of the HSV viral-mediated gene transfer, which can be engineered to produce cell-type specificity, can be utilized in slice cultures for a variety of purposes over a 1- to 4-day period with spatial and temporal specificity. This protocol exploits the rapid expression of HSV viral vectors by utilizing slice culture for electrophysiological recordings, avoiding the need to do intracranial viral injections. Brain slice cultures maintain many aspects of in vivo biology, including functional local synaptic circuitry with preserved brain architecture, while allowing good experimental access and precise control of the extracellular environment, making them ideal platforms for quick access to evaluate expression effects of HSV viral-mediated gene transfer on the molecular and cellular properties of specific neurons. This protocol provides an easy way to study neuronal function following viral expression of a gene of interest. © 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Keywords: slice culture; HSV; gene transfer; neuronal property
Availability of healthier options in traditional and nontraditional rural fast-food outlets

Background Food prepared away from home has become increasingly popular to U.S. families, and may contribute to obesity. Sales have been dominated by fast food outlets, where meals are purchased for dining away from home or in the home. Although national chain affiliated fast-food outlets are considered the main source for fast food, fast foods are increasingly available in convenience stores and supermarkets/grocery stores. In rural areas, these nontraditional fast-food outlets may provide most of the opportunities for procurement of fast foods.
Direct Evaluation of a Kinetic Model for RecA‐Mediated DNA‐strand exchange: The Importance of Nucleic Acid Dynamics and Entropy During Homologous Genetic Recombination

The Escherichia coli RecA protein is the prototype of a class of proteins that play central roles in genomic repair and recombination in all organisms. The unresolved mechanistic strategy by which RecA aligns a single strand of DNA with a duplex DNA and mediates a DNA strand switch is central to understanding homologous recombination. We explored the mechanism of RecA-mediated DNA-strand exchange using oligonucleotide substrates with the intrinsic fluorophore 6-methylisoxanthopterin. Pre-steady-state spectrofluorometric analysis elucidated the earliest transient intermediates formed during recombination and delineated the mechanistic strategy by which RecA facilitates this process. The structural features of the first detectable intermediate and the energetic characteristics of its formation were consistent with interactions between a few bases of the single-stranded DNA and the minor groove of a locally melted or stretched duplex DNA. Further analysis revealed RecA to be an unusual enzyme in that entropic rather than enthalpic contributions dominate its catalytic function, and no unambiguously active role for the protein was detected in the earliest molecular events of recombination. The data best support the conclusion that the mechanistic strategy of RecA likely relies on intrinsic DNA dynamics.
The Effect of Message's Regulatory Focus and Product Type on Persuasion

The primary objective of this research is to examine the role of message's regulatory focus (promotion versus prevention) in advertisements for different product types (hedonic versus utilitarian)....
Identifying and Responding to Needs and Opportunities: Contributing to the Profession

We are very pleased to introduce the first special issue of the Journal of Outdoor Recreation, Education, and Leadership (JOREL). It is a compilation of peer-reviewed research abstracts from the 5th Annual AORE Research Symposium held in Minneapolis, MN, November 2009 and the 2nd Annual Outdoor Leadership Research Symposium (OLRS) held in Estes Park, CO, February 2010. We are grateful for the scholarly contributions made by the authors whose work appears in this issue. The special issue is, however, representative of something larger than the scholarship in the published abstracts. The greater significance lies in remembering that the journal itself, the two research symposiums, and the included abstracts were the results of individuals identifying and acting on needs/opportunities to better their profession.
Working environment and its impact on the health of immigrants

Abstract According to Wilkinson and Marmot, the type of work and working conditions significantly affect health. Good working opportunities enable immigrants to integrate themselves into society. The goal of the research investigation carried out within the project COST (Cooperation on Scientific and Technical Research, Reg. No. 10031, entitled “Health and Social Situation of Immigrants and Asylum Seekers”) was to map the working conditions of the target group of Vietnamese, Mongolian and Ukrainian immigrants ( N = 236) and compare their working conditions with the working environment of the Czech population. Another goal of the study was to evaluate the effect of working environment on the health of immigrants. The results, involving the majority of the population, were drawn from a study of the European Survey on Health in the Czech Republic EHIS 2008 (European Health Interview Survey). The study was published by the Institution of Health Studies and Statistics of the Czech Republic (UZIS) in 2011. The questionnaire styled survey was conducted in 2011. From the results, it is evident that the target group of immigrants is exposed to unfavourable working circumstances more than the Czech population. The biggest differences were observed in the sphere of “sexual harassment or other psychological pressure” and “discrimination”. A higher incidence of unfavourable working circumstances significantly increased the number of illnesses caused by the employment. Immigrants were exposed to a number of unfavourable working conditions that increased the risk of work-related injuries. Although the Czech legislation requires employers to provide each employee the training on safety rules when starting a job, the study results point to insufficient training of immigrants in the sphere of health protection.
Determination of brevetoxin in recent marine sediments

Abstract Harmful algal blooms (HAB) of Karenia brevis (K. brevis) produce a suite of lipid soluble polyether brevetoxins, known to cause environmental, health and economic ill effects. There is evidence that K. brevis has increased in abundance over the past 50 years, but the dataset is incomplete. The objective of this paper was to analyze sediment from an area where K. brevis blooms have occurred and investigate if these compounds are incorporated into the underlying sediment, thus potentially allowing the use of brevetoxins as an indicator of past K. Brevis blooms. The results from LC-ESI-MS-MS analyses of brevetoxin analogs detected in surficial sediments from three sites (Fort Meyers Beach [FMB], Big Hickory Pass [BHP] and Big Carlos Pass [BCP]) along the Southwest Florida coastline with prior HAB history are promising. The analogs detected from BHP sediments were PbTx-2 and PbTx-3 with values of 0.81 and 3.1 ng g−1 dry sediment, respectively. The detected PbTx-2 from BCP was 3.6 ng g−1 dry sediment, while the detected PbTx-3 from BCP was 9.7 ng g−1 dry sediment. PbTx-3 was only detected at the FMB site (2.7 ng g−1 dry sediment). The detection of brevetoxins in recent sediments where K. brevis have occurred indicates brevetoxin incorporation into marine sediments.
Effect of mutation and phosphorylation of type I keratins on their caspase-mediated degradation.

Type I keratins K18 and K19 undergo caspase-mediated degradation during apoptosis. Two known K18 caspase cleavage sites are aspartates in the consensus sequences VEVDA and DALDS, located within the rod domain and tail domain, respectively. Several K14 (another type I keratin) mutations within the caspase cleavage motif have been described in patients with epidermolysis bullosa simplex. Here we use extensive mutational analysis to show that K19 and K14 are caspase substrates and that the ability to undergo caspase-mediated digestion of K18, K19, or K14 is highly dependent on the location and nature of the mutation within the caspase cleavage motif. Caspase cleavage of K14 occurs at the aspartate of VEMDA, a consensus sequence found in type I keratins K12–17 with similar but not identical sequences in K18 and K19. For K18, apoptosis-induced cleavage occurs sequentially, first at 393DALD and then at 234VEVD. Hyperphosphorylation of K18 protects from caspase-3 in vitro digestion at 234VEVD but not at 393DALD. Hence, keratins K12–17 are likely caspase substrates during apoptosis. Keratin hyperphosphorylation, which occurs early in apoptosis, protects from caspase-mediated K18 digestion in a cleavage site-specific manner. Mutations in epidermolysis bullosa simplex patients could interfere with K14 degradation during apoptosis, depending on their location.
Antagonism of leukotriene receptors and administration of a 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor do not affect hypoxic vasoconstriction.

The role of leukotrienes in hypoxic vasoconstriction remains controversial. Our previous study using the lipoxygenase inhibitor BW 755C in dogs failed to show a substantive role for leukotrienes in hypoxic vasoconstriction. To clarify further the role of leukotrienes, we designed 3 protocols. In the first protocol, we examined the effects of LTD4 boluses on the pulmonary circulation in 6 anesthetized dogs. LTD4, 1 µg/kg, (a large dose relative to other species) produced no detectable constriction of the pulmonary artery, while systemic vascular resistance increased 41±17% (SD), left atrial pressure rose 3.5±1.5 mmHg, and cardiac output fell 18±8%. Two leukotriene receptor antagonists, LY171883 and L-648051, decreased these effects by more than 50%. In the second protocol, we tested these antagonists in 7 anesthetized, paralyzed, closed-chest dogs with acute left lower lobe atelectasis. Two manifestations of hypoxic vasoconstriction were examined: shunt fraction (as an inverse indicator of regional constriction in response to local hypoxia) and the pulmonary pressor response to global alveolar hypoxia (as an index of general hypoxic vasoconstriction). During normoxia before administration of the inhibitor, shunt fraction, measured using an SF6 infusion, was 25±7%. The pulmonary pressor response to hypoxia, defined as the increase in pulmonary end-diastolic gradient (PDG) produced by 10% O2 inhalation, averaged +10.5±3.6 mmHg. The increase in pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) with hypoxia was +2.4±1.7 mmHg/L/min. Then, during normoxia, 1 of the 2 antagonists was administered. Shunt fraction was unchanged (26±4%; p=0.5). The pressor response to hypoxia was slightly less but remained substantial (the increase in PDG with hypoxia was +7.9±2.8 mmHg; p 0.05). The pressor response to hypoxia was + 8.9±2.1 mmHg before and +8.7±3.7 mmHg after RG 5901 (p>0.05).
Resolving Barriers to Licensure Portability for Telerehabilitation Professionals

Rehabilitation professionals (e.g., audiologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, etc.) can only engage in telerehabilitation in states in which they hold a professional license. The current state-based licensure and regulation of rehabilitation professionals does not facilitate the practice of telerehabilitation across state lines. Given today’s equipment capabilities and consumer adoption of the electronic delivery of many kinds of services, health care providers, including rehabilitation professionals, should be able to serve clients wherever they are needed.
Granulomatosis with CNS involvement: a neuroimaging clinicopathologic correlation.

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE To present a rare case of a rheumatologic disorder with a central nervous system manifestation. METHODS A 48-year-old female with history of nasal and auricular pain and inflammation developed bilateral intermittent scleritis that was refractory to several immunosuppressive medications. She later presented with headaches and right upper extremity parasthesias. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was obtained and she was referred to a neurosurgeon. RESULTS Neurological examination did not reveal any focal deficits. Laboratory analysis demonstrated an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). Brain MRI with and without gadolinium contrast revealed an extra-axial, enhancing, left frontoparietal convexity lesion. The patient was taken to the operating room for biopsy and resection of the mass. Final pathology demonstrated dural granulomatosis with vasculitis, most consistent with intracranial Wegener's granulomatosis. The patient was discharged to follow-up with her rheumatologist for further medical management. CONCLUSIONS Enhancing, intracranial dural lesions are associated with a variety of disease entities. Wegener's granulomatosis is one such entity and should be considered in the correct context.
Population pharmacokinetics of intravenous indomethacin in neonates with symptomatic patent ductus arteriosus

The population pharmacokinetics of intravenous indomethacin were investigated with 665 indomethacin serum concentrations from 83 neonates (mean ± SD: gestational age, 28.8 ± 2.5 weeks; postnatal age, 5.7 ± 4.7 days; birth weight, 1.13 ± 0.40 kg) receiving indomethacin for symptomatic patent ductus arteriosus. A one-compartment open model was used for pharmacokinetic analysis. Hypotheses were tested to determine which developmental and demographic data influenced clearance (CL) and volume of distribution (Varea). In the final regression equation CL and Varea were modeled as a function of body weight and postnatal age (PNA) from 0 to 20 days. Final estimates were as follows: CL (ml/hr) = 2.63 · weight (kg) + 0.244 · PNA (days) and Varea (L) = 0.28 · weight (kg) + 0.0041 · PNA (days). The coefficients of variation for interindividual variability in CL and Varea were 77% and 28%, respectively. Intraindividual variability was 19%. These mean population parameter estimates should prove useful in designing dosage regimens to achieve desired indomethacin concentrations for neonates from 0 to 20 days of age with symptomatic patent ductus arteriosus. Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics (1991) 49, 550–557; doi:10.1038/clpt.1991.65
Introduction to the Special Issue: Organizational Networks and Environmental Governance

CALFED Bay-Delta Program (CALFED) emerged in 1995 as a network organization whose comprehensive initiative was to manage water resources in California’s SacramentoSan Joaquin Delta. Water shortages had caused conflict among the disjointed state and federal water management agencies that shared regulatory authority over the Delta. CALFED started as an innovative effort to build a tighter network among these agencies that would allow them to more effectively address what was a complex, multi-jurisdictional environmental management problem. As a secretariat, staffed with personnel on loan from member agencies, CALFED coordinated collaboration among member organizations. For several years, CALFED was able to coordinate planning and policy-making among members. Ten years later, the network had all but collapsed into a morass of turf wars, political manoeuvrings, and internal communications problems, driven largely by organizational self-interest. Legislation in 2008 essentially abolished CALFED. While CALFED is an extreme example, the elements of its story are common. Organizational networks are often formed to address “wicked” environmental problems— large-scale, complex, and multi-jurisdictional—that are beyond the capacity of a single organization to address. Multiple goals related to member self-interests compete with external goals related to the production of public goods (e.g., a sustainably managed resource). As a result, the networks fail to achieve their intended goals—or at a minimum perform differently than expected. This special issue explores the relationship between functionality (expected outcomes) and dysfunctionality (unexpected outcomes) in organizational networks, combining perspectives from environmental governance, and organizational and network sociology.
Major depression, panic disorder, and mitral valve prolapse in patients who complain of chest pain

Abstract purpose: Patients with chest pain but without angiographic evidence of significant atherosclerotic coronary artery disease (CAD) are often found to have other medical or psychiatric disorders, including mitral valve prolapse, panic disorder (PD), and major depressive disorder (MDD). The purpose of this study was to determine the degree of comorbidity between MDD/PD and mitral valve prolapse in a group of patients with non-CAD chest pain. patients and methods: Patients referred for cardiac catheterization and coronary angiography for suspected CAD who were 70 years of age or younger and without other significant medical illnesses or cardiac complications were eligible for study. The first 100 patients who agreed to a psychiatric diagnostic interview were recruited. results: Forty-eight of the 100 patients were found to be without significant CAD. Forty-two percent of these patients, compared to 19% of the patients with significant CAD, were found to have either MDD, PD, or both. Eighty percent of the patients without CAD who had mitral valve prolapse also had either MDD or PD (p conclusions: The finding that mitral valve prolapse was significantly associated with MDD/PD has implications for the diagnosis and treatment of patients with non-CAD chest pain, and may explain why these patients complain of symptoms.
The Combustion Characteristics of n-Decane/Iso-Octane/Toluene Mixture and Jet-A Fuel Droplets in the Absence of Convection

This study examines the extent to which a ternary mixture of n-decane/iso-octane/toluene in the specific mixture fraction of 42.67/33.02/24.31 (mole fraction), respectively, can replicate the droplet burning characteristics of an aviation fuel, Jet-A (designated by the Air Force as “POSF4658”). Experiments were carried out to examine the droplet combustion characteristics in an environment which minimizes convection to promote spherical symmetry in the burning process. The evolution of droplet diameter, burning rate and flame and soot stand-off ratios were compared to Jet-A to evaluate the potential of this ternary to serve as a Jet-A surrogate regarding the droplet burning process. The results show that the ternary blend has a shorter transient droplet heating period than Jet-A and it closely replicates the evolution of droplet diameter and burning rate. The burning rates for these two fuels are close at the end of burning, and flame and soot standoff ratios for the ternary are also reasonably close to those of Jet-A. The results also suggest that the spherical droplet flame configuration can be a useful tool to evaluate the extent to which a mixture of single component fuels may serve as a surrogate of a real transportation fuel.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Transformation of Dendrobium orchid using particle bombardment of protocorms.

Transformed dendrobium orchids (Dendrobium x Jaquelyn Thomas hybrids) were recovered from protocorms bombarded by particles coated with the plasmid pGA482GG/cpPRV4, which contains the plant expressible Nos-NPT II and papaya ringspot virus (PRV) coat protein (CP) genes. Approximately 280 protocorms from four crosses were bombarded and potentially transformed tissues were identified by growth and green color on half-strength Murashige and Skoog medium supplemented with 2% sucrose and 50–100 mg 1−1 kanamycin sulfate. Kanamycin concentrations that prevented growth of nontransformed tissues could not be used for long-term selection because such levels suppressed the regeneration of potentially transformed tissues. PCR and restriction analysis 21 months after treatment found 13 of 13 plants from two crosses, which appeared kanamycin-tolerant, to contain the Nos-NPT II gene, while only one of these plants carried the vector-linked PRV CP-gene. These results support use of particle bombardment for transformation of this important ornamental monocot.
Effect of electron correlation on the Pa atom energy levels and electron coupling

The lower energy levels of the protactinium (Pa) atom are unusually difficult to treat theoretically. Pa is located where the 6d and 5f energies cross; simple calculations consistently put the electron configurations \(5f^16d^27s^2\) and \(5f^26d^17s^2\) in the incorrect order. We have used multireference spin–orbit configuration interaction to compute the energies of these states to determine which additional interactions need to be included. We also discuss the less common J1j coupling scheme suggested for these atomic states with applications also to the \(5f^16d^2\) and \(5f^26d^1\) states of \(\hbox{Pa}^{2+}\).
Maleimide Cross‐Linked Bioactive PEG Hydrogel Exhibits Improved Reaction Kinetics and Cross‐Linking for Cell Encapsulation and In Situ Delivery

Engineered polyethylene glycol-maleimide matrices for regenerative medicine exhibit improved reaction efficiency and wider range of Young’s moduli by utilizing maleimide cross-linking chemistry. This hydrogel chemistry is advantageous for cell delivery due to the mild reaction that occurs rapidly enough for in situ delivery, while easily lending itself to “plug-and-play” design variations such as incorporation of enzyme-cleavable cross-links and cell-adhesion peptides.
Electron cyclotron echoes from plasmas

Abstract The major features of two- and three-pulse echoes can be predicted by taking account of electron/neutral momentum scattering collisions.
Surface energy and specific heat for a semi-infinite medium

The surface-energy density is calculated directly for the special transition via field-theoretic renormalization-group techniques to two-loop order. It is shown that the ratio of specific-heat amplitudes at the special and ordinary transitions is given by $\frac{{C}_{\mathrm{sp}}^{0}}{{C}_{\mathrm{ord}}^{0}}=\ensuremath{-}1+O({\ensuremath{\epsilon}}^{2})$. A trajectory integral approach is used to evaluate the crossover for the energy density and specific heat to one-loop order.
A simulation model of river ice cover thermodynamics

Abstract A model of ice cover thermodynamics was used to simulate ice growth and decay along the international section of the St. Lawrence River for winter 1980–1981. This winter was chosen because of the exceptionally cold weather in December and January, and because of the abnormally warm air temperatures during the second half of February. At the air-ice interface, the model computes the surface energy transfer components and a resulting equilibrium surface temperature. At the lower boundary, an empirical algorith simulates the turbulent transfer of heat from the water. Within the ice, and implicit numerical solution to the general heat diffusion equation is used, permitting stable solutions for a variety of time intervals and node distances within the model. The model was used to simulate ice growth and decay at five sites characterized by their flow velocity, the date of ice-cover formation, and the water temperature regime. The model adequately represented growth rates at all five sites, but produced decay rates slower than those observed. Simulated breakup was 1–7 days later than observed, presumably because mechanical weakening of the ice was not taken into consideration. During the growth period, the model is far more sensitive to the values assigned to ice properties than it is to the error range in the meteorological variables. During the breakup period, the most sensitive boundary variable is water temperature.
Test of Environmental Geologic Mapping, Southern Edwards Plateau, Southwest Texas

The southern Edwards Plateau, southwest Texas, is the recharge area for a thick limestone aquifer that supplies potable water to more than 850,000 people and irrigation water for more than 2,500 sq mi (6,500 sq km) of cropland. Because the increasing population effects a booming residential and recreational development in this region, information on the geological environment of the plateau must be made available to planners so that the aquifer can be safeguarded. A reconnaissance environmental mapping technique has been developed in a pilot study that is to precede a major regional mapping program. Constraints in developing the technique were plateau geology, land use, factors controlling recharge, and available materials, including aerial photography and maps. The basis for defining the environmental mapping units is dominantly geomorphic; lithologic differences are indicated where necessary. The units are: karstic tableland, karstic lowland, deeply dissected carbonate, moderately dissected carbonate, carbonate, shale, alluvial fan, terrace, flood plain, fan plain, and alluvial-colluvial material. Results of this mapping are directly applicable in land use planning.
Effect of the high-contrast-mask sidewall slope on deep x-ray lithography

Deep X-ray lithography is a fabrication process for the production of a broad variety of microstructures with large structural heights. These can reach several hundred micrometers, with minimum lateral dimensions on the order of several microns. The main difference between ULSI and micromachining XRL is in the use of high-contrast masks (HCMs), with contrast in excess of 100. We fabricate these HCMs using a negative-tone resist to yield a coy of an original e-beam-made thin X-ray mask. Thus, we have fabricated HCMs with 6- micrometers -thick gold absorbers on SiN membranes using X-ray lithography replication. In our HCM fabrication process, it is possible to control the absorber sidewall by adjusting the exposure dose and development time. In this way, it is possible to generate absorbers sidewalls with slopes as large as 70 degrees. We have observed that when using HCM with sidewall slopes the exposed resist structures display sloping sidewalls as well. This opens the possibility of generating tapered structures and other complex shapes. This approach becomes even more interesting when combined with multilevel lithography, where different levels may be formed in the same resist layer by multiple exposures. We will present both experimental results and an image formation study that includes in detail the effect absorber topology, and the relation between mask sidewall slopes and resist sidewall slopes.
Inhibitor of anion transport, DIDS, releases Ca2+ from hepatic microsomes.

Abstract Addition of 4,4′-diisothiocyanostilbene - 2, 2′-disulfonic acid (DIDS) to Ca 2+ loaded hepatic microsomal vesicles evoked a dose-dependent release of the accumulated Ca 2+ . Ca 2+ uptake was also inhibited. The effects of DIDS do not seem to be due to the inhibitions of either Cl − or proton fluxes. The results indicate that DIDS inhibits Ca 2+ uptake and releases Ca 2+ by inhibiting the Ca 2+ -ATPase and the formation of the phosphorylated intermediate of the enzyme, and that it might interact with a specific site on the vesicle which is involved in the translocation of Ca 2+ across the microsomal and mitochondrial membranes.
Optimized intrinsic dimension estimator using nearest neighbor graphs

We develop an approach to intrinsic dimension estimation based on k-nearest neighbor (kNN) distances. The dimension estimator is derived using a general theory on functionals of kNN density estimates. This enables us to predict the performance of the dimension estimation algorithm. In addition, it allows for optimization of free parameters in the algorithm. We validate our theory through simulations and compare our estimator to previous kNN based dimensionality estimation approaches.
Soluble receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (sRAGE) effectively reduces tumor growth as a single agent and in combination with doxorubicin in a spontaneous mammary tumor model

Abstract Introduction: The receptor for advanced glycation endproducts (RAGE), a member of the immunoglobulin family interacts with distinct ligands that have been implicated in various pathophysiologic states such as diabetes, atherosclerosis, inflammation as well as tumor growth. We have previously demonstrated that blockade of RAGE in tumors raised in mice from rat C6 glioma cells or murine Lewis lung carcinoma effectively reduced tumor growth, invasion and metastases. Blockade of RAGE has also previously been shown to halt the progression of breast tumors in a murine model that spontaneously produces breast tumors. We hypothesize that the addition of RAGE antagonists to standard chemotherapeutic agents for breast cancer may enhance the effectiveness of monotherapy. Methods: Female MMTV transgenic mice (5–8 weeks) were divided into four groups: (1) Control group-no treatment, (2) doxorubicin (DOX) 2 mg/kg IP weekly x 4 weeks (3) sRAGE 20 μg IP daily x 4 weeks and (4) DOX 2 mg/kg IP weekly x 4 weeks and sRAGE 20 μg IP daily x 4 weeks. The mice were sacrificed and tumors harvested on treatment day 35 and were weighed and measured. Results: There was no difference in tumor weight between the control mice (n = 9) and DOX-treated mice (n = 4) (0.192 g v. 0.193). The administration of sRAGE (n = 7) decreased tumor weight to 0.12 g and the combination of sRAGE and DOX (n = 8) decreased tumor weight by a third (0.192 g v. 0.061 g, p = 0.11). While the mean tumor volume in the control mice was 316.7 mm 3 , sRAGE decreased tumor volume to 89.65 mm 3 and the combination of sRAGE and DOX decreased tumor volume by 6.5 fold (316.7 mm 3 vs. 48.08 mm 3 , p = 0.006). The mean tumor volume in the DOX treated group was 500.9 mm 3 . Conclusions: RAGE antagonists suppress local tumor growth in transgenic mice with spontaneously occurring cancer in an early intervention model. The addition of sRAGE, a low molecular weight RAGE antagonist, to doxorubicin enhanced the effectiveness of this standard chemotherapy agent.
Differentiating reactive and suspicious jealousy

In contrast to viewing jealousy as a unitary construct, this research differentiates jealousy into reactive (emotional components of jealousy) and suspicious jealousy (cognitive and behavioral components of jealousy), for which manifestations and antecedents differ. Besides finding that reactive and suspicious jealousy could be delineated, the results of two studies found evidence for discriminant validity and that greater reactive jealousy was related to greater relationship dependency, greater trust, and lower chronic jealousy. Persons who displayed more suspicious jealousy had greater insecurity, greater anxious attachment, greater avoidant attachment, greater chronic jealousy, and lower self-esteem. This research is consistent with a transactional model of jealousy.
Entering Teaching through the Back Door: Two Alternative Route Teachers Speak

(1993). Entering Teaching through the Back Door: Two Alternative Route Teachers Speak. Action in Teacher Education: Vol. 15, No. 3, pp. 12-18.
Optical processing for model-based vision

Recent advances in smart filters make correlator architectures (optical or digital) attractive for automatic target recognition (ATR). They allow one to significantly reduce the search space typically required in matched filter template matching. Use of a hierarchy of correlation filters allows one to address all levels of model based vision including detection (prescreening), segmentation (image enhancement and edge detection), recognition (reduction of false alarms, pose, and size estimation, etc.), and classification (identification of the object type). This significantly reduces the object geometry and contrast search space required.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
A COMPARISON OF THE ADHESION OF FILM SEALANT LAYERS TO COOKED‐IN‐THE‐BAG HAM1

Selected packaging film sealants were tested for their ability to cause film adhesion to surfaces in cook-in-the-bag hams. Hams were manufactured from a typical commercial ham formulation and industry-scale packaging and cooking equipment. Meat-to-film adhesion and level of purge accumulation was determined for both the non-forming and the forming portions of each ham package. Formed films adhered more tightly to the ham than non-formed films. Zinc-neutralized films adhered better to the ham than the acid-neutralized films.
Bacteriology of empyema.

Abstract The bacteriology of empyema fluid was studied in three hospitals equipped with anaerobic research laboratories. Acceptable cases were restricted to adult patients who had not received antimicrobial therapy nor undergone previous thoracic surgery. Anaerobic bacteria were recovered in 63 of 83 (76%) cases studied, and these were the exclusive isolates in 29 (35%). The predominant microorganisms, in order of prevalence, were anaerobic or microaerophilic gram-positive cocci, Staphylococcus aureus, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Bacteroides melaninogenicus, B. fragilis , clostridia, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These results demonstrate the need for careful transport and processing of pleural-fluid specimens to ensure recovery of oxygen-sensitive forms.
Remote sensing based crop growth stage estimation model

Crop growth stages are important factors for segmenting the crop growing seasons and analyzing their growth conditions against normal conditions by periods. Time series of high temporal resolution, up to daily, satellite remotely sensed data are used in establishing crop growth estimation model and estimate the growth stages. The daily surface reflectance data from Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) is used as the base data to calculate indices, form condition profiles, construct crop growth model, and estimate crop growth stage. Different crops have different condition profiles. To take into consideration of crop differences, models are built on each crop type. In the United States, ten major crops have been chosen to build crop growth stage estimation models using historical date tracing back to 2000 when MODIS launched. A kernel, double sigmoid model, is used to model the single mode crop growth season. The basic core model is double sigmoid model. The Best Index Slope Extraction (BISE) is applied to pre-filter the daily crop condition index. Estimated results have reasonably high accuracy, with root mean square error less than 10% on the state level evaluation.
The Effects of Transverse Acceleration-Induced Body Forces on the Capillary Limit of Helically Grooved Heat Pipes

A helically grooved copper heat pipe with ethanol as the working fluid has been fabricated and tested on a centrifuge table. The heat pipe was bent to match the radius of curvature of the table so that uniform transverse (perpendicular to the axis of the heat pipe) body force fields could be applied along the entire length of the pipe. By varying the heat input (Q in = 25 to 250 W) and centrifuge table velocity (radial acceleration |a, = 0 to 10g), information on dryout phenomena, circumferential temperature uniformity, heat lost to the environment, thermal resistance, and the capillary limit to heat transport was obtained. Due to the geometry of the helical grooves, the capillary limit increased by a factor of five when the radial acceleration increased from |a r | = 0 to 6.0g. This important result was verified by a mathematical model of the heat pipe system, wherein the capillary limit to heat transport of each groove was calculated in terms of centrifuge table angular velocity, the geometry of the heat pipe and the grooves (including helix pitch), and temperature-dependent working fluid properties. In addition, a qualitative study was executed with a copper-ethanol heat pipe with straight axial grooves. This experimental study showed that the performance of the heat pipe with straight grooves was not improved when the radial acceleration was increased from |a r | = 0 to 10.0g.
The structure of Cu-Zr glasses using a colloidal proxy system

Abstract We present a novel experimental technique for studying the structure of metallic glasses (specifically Cu–Zr) through a proxy system of charged colloidal particles. A dense suspension of two types of colloidal particles that match the relative size ratio and approximate the attractive interaction of Cu and Zr atoms is created. Confocal microscopy images are analyzed to find the location of tens of thousands of particles at each composition studied. The particle locations are used to determine the packing fraction, partial radial distribution functions and partial coordination numbers of each component as well as the shape of clusters (central atom and first shell neighbors) that form. These results are compared to experimental and simulation literature on Cu–Zr systems, with good agreement found among all structural properties.
An Alkaline Oxidation Method for Determination of Total Arsenic and Selenium in Sewage Sludges

A simple and precise method was developed for determination of total As and Se in sewage sludges by using hydride-generation atomic absorption spectrometry (HGAAS). It involves boiling a 50-mg sample with sodium hypobromite (NaOBr) solution to dryness in a sand bath (260-280{degrees}C), extraction of the As and Se in the digest with 1.25 M H{sub 2}SO{sub 4}, and determination of these elements by HGAAS after reducing As(V) and Se(VI) to As(III) and Se(IV), respectively. The proposed method gives quantitative recovery of As and Se in standard reference materials (96-103%) and of these elements added to sewage sludges (95-100%). The average results of AS (9.8 mg/kg) and Se (7.5 mg/kg) in 12 sewage sludges determined by the proposed digestion method agreed closely with those obtained by the acid digestion methods recommended by USGS and USEPA. Tests with 13 metals indicated that, at the concentrations expected in sewage sludges, none of the metals interfered with determination of As and Se by the proposed method. A single operator can complete analysis of one of the elements in 40 samples in a normal working day, or both elements in 1.5 d.
Notice of Violation of IEEE Publication Principles A 12.5 Gb/s Electro-Absorption-Modulator Driver Using an Adaptive Compensated Push-Pull Emitter Follower and a Cascode Output Switch With Dynamic Headroom Allocation

A 9.953-12.5 Gb/s EAM driver IC was realized in a 60 GHz fT 0.2 mum SOI SiGe HBT process. Fast switching was achieved by using a cascode output switch that minimizes the capacitive load on the pre-driver and also allows an on-chip summation of the bias and modulation currents without degrading the signal path bandwidth. Low voltage operation was achieved by generating the modulation current with a common-mode feedback loop. Dynamic biasing was used to optimally allocate the headroom voltage between the switch and its cascode devices over supply, temperature, bias and modulation corners. An adaptive RC compensation that tracks the modulation current was implemented to cancel the inductive behavior of the last emitter follower stage. The EAM driver specifications include 20 to 120 mA modulation current range, 1 to 60 mA bias current range, <15 pspp deterministic jitter, <25 ps rise/fall time, plusmn80 ps pulse-width adjustment, 4.75 to 5.5 V supply voltage and 1.3times1.7 mm2 die area