cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The extraction of structural protein from submitochondrial vesicles

Abstract Structural protein can be isolated from mitochondria by extraction with acid leaving most, if not all, of the phospholipid in the membranous residue ( Zahler, Saito and Fleischer, 1968) . On the other hand, the results of Richardson, Hultin and Fleischer (1964) show that isolated structural protein combines with mitochondrial phospholipid. The question remains whether structural protein is associated with phospholipid in the mitochondrion. It is possible that acidification of the mitochondria causes alteration and/or redistribution of the lipid and therefore such studies may not be relevant to the association of lipid with protein with-in the mitochondrion. We wish to report an independent procedure using urea for the extraction of structural protein. Membranous residues from urea and acid extraction of heart, kidney and liver submitochondrial vesicles have the same lipid content. These studies are compatible with the view that structural protein is not associated with lipid in the mitochondrion.
islands in the Pacific: Darwinian biogeography and British anthropology

The intellectual lineage of the island model particularly associated with British functionalism is traced to Darwinian biogeography, from which it was abstracted in the 1920s; at that time both the patronage structure and the intellectual ecology of the discipline altered fundamentally. Darwinian biogeography itself is grounded in its sociohistorical context—in the problem of acclimatization raised by human population movements, particularly those associated with colonialism. [evolutionism, functionalism, Darwinism, biogeography, isolation, speciation, diffusionism, Britain]
Estrategias de «quodlíbet» en el escenario internacional contemporáneo: las acciones de India, Brasil y Sudáfrica (IBSA) en los ámbitos multilaterales

Frente al cada vez mas complejo sistema internacional contemporaneo, se plantea la necesidad de crear nuevas herramientas conceptuales que contribuyan a una mejor comprension de la realidad mundial. En este contexto, se otorga especial relevancia al fortalecimiento de una perspectiva propiamente latinoamericana introduciendo la nocion de estrategia de quodlibet con el objetivo de analizar la creciente y multifacetica presencia de los poderes emergentes en los ambitos decisorios globales.
HEMOSTATIC FACTORS AS TRIGGERS OF CARDIOVASCULAR EVENTS

A growing body of evidence supports a role for hemostatic factors in triggering cardiovascular events. Fibrinogen has been identified as an independent cardiovascular risk factor that is as powerful a predictor as cholesterol. Factor VII, fibrinolytic potential, von Willebrand's factor, and platelet reactivity also have been linked to increased incidence of cardiovascular disease. Further characterization of these factors may lead to improved risk assessment and the development of new therapies for prevention.
Data type transformation in heterogeneous shared memory multiprocessors

Abstract A heterogeneous shared memory multiprocessor, which contains different types of specialized processors, may execute a complex problem faster than either a homogeneous multiprocessor or a heterogeneous network. However, since dissimilar processors often use different representations for primitive data types, the shared data must be transformed. Analytical performance models and queueing models predict the performance of alternative designs for the transformation of shared data. These models indicate that significant performance advantages are provided by hardware transformation units, caching of unshared data, and local memory. Conversely, caching of shared data and the location of the transformation units have a less significant effect on performance. The primary applications for these type of designs are in special-purpose applications that require maximum performance and tight coupling between heterogeneous processors. The linking that must be done at compile time makes these designs less suited for general-purpose applications and development work.
Distributed particle filter using Gaussian approximated likelihood function

In this paper, we propose a distributed particle filtering algorithm for sensor networks in which multiple sensors collaborate to monitor and track an object in a nonlinear/non-Gaussian dynamic system. According to the algorithm, the sensors collaboratively compute the global likelihood function in order to make local estimates that takes into account measurements from all the sensors. To compute the global likelihood, each sensor first approximates its local likelihood function using Gaussian function, and exchange its approximated local likelihood with the other sensors. Such approximation saves communication overhead because it requires the sensors to exchange only the mean and the covariance of the approximated Gaussian local likelihood functions. The exchange of the parameters of the likelihood functions between sensors is accomplished using an average consensus filter or by implementing forward-backward propagation strategy.
Preparation of Large Area NbN/AlN/NbN Josephson Junctions

AlN has been used as a barrier material in large josephson junctions. The chemical and structural compatibility of AlN with NbN make it possible to fabricate NbN/AlN/NbN junctions by sequential reactive sputtering in a common Ar and N2 atmosphere. In a junction with an area of about 1.0×1.0 mm2, having a transition temperature of 14.5K. the measured I–V and first derivative curves yield a sum gap value of about 3.0 meV.
Neurobehavioral reorganization in early infancy: Patterns of head orientation following lateral and midline holds

Head orientation was investigated in a longitudinal study of 37 infants, who were observed at ages 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks, during a 60-second period that followed each of four (60 second) midline or lateral holds. When newborn, the infants tended to lie with their heads to the right, but this bias weakened over the first 3 postnatal months. This rightward motor bias was constrained further by such factors as sex and holding position; both factors had their strongest effect at 8 weeks. Finally, evidence was found for behavioral reorganization of postural orientation such that head orientation was less influenced by prior head positioning after than prior to 8 weeks.
Characterization of a Series of Transconjugant Mutants of an Avian Pathogenic Escherichia Coli Isolate for Resistance to Serum Complement

SUMMARY. Colibacillosis, caused by avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) is a major problem for the poultry industry resulting in significant losses annually. Previous work in our lab and by others has shown that the increased serum survival gene (iss) is a common trait associated with the virulence of APEC. This gene was first described for its contributions to E. coli serum resistance. However, recently published research has called the contribution of iss to this trait into question. In the present study, the level of serum resistance conferred on an E. coli isolate by iss is examined. Additionally, the contribution of l bor gene to E. coli serum resistance is studied, as iss is thought to be derived from bor and bor occurs commonly among E. coli. To better understand the iss and bor contributions to serum resistance, a series of iss and bor mutants was generated. An iss deletion (iss 2 ) mutant showed a significant drop in its resistance to serum. Similarly, a bor mutant showed a drop in serum resistance but not as drastic as that observed with the iss mutant, suggesting that iss contributes more to serum resistance than bor in this E. coli strain. Also, when iss was reintroduced into the iss 2 mutant the wild-type level of serum resistance was restored, confirming that the deletion of iss was responsible for the change in resistance seen in the mutant.
Wet Milling Characteristics of Waxy Corn Hybrids Obtained from Different Planting Locations

Starch yield and residual protein content in starch were determined using a laboratory wet milling procedure for three waxy corn hybrids obtained from up to five planting locations, to investigate the effect of planting location and hybrid on starch yield and purity, and to investigate interactions between planting location and hybrid. Starch yield varied significantly with both hybrid and planting location at the 5% probability level. Residual protein content in starch was not significantly affected by planting location, but was significantly affected by hybrid. Relative rankings of hybrids with respect to starch yield and residual protein content in starch were consistent across planting locations, although starch yield and the residual protein content in starch varied with the planting location. Results indicated that hybrids having high starch yield at one location will likely have high starch yields at other planting locations. The same was found true for starch purity.
Microvascular decompression for the treatment of glossopharyngeal neuralgia

Glossopharyngeal neuralgia is a rare disorder. In this article, the condition is defined and its clinical features and diagnostic criteria are described. Treatment of this condition has changed over the years, and evolution of surgical treatment is reviewed. Microvascular decompression for glossopharyngeal neuralgia is described in detail, emphasizing special preoperative anesthetic considerations and up-to-date results and complications.
Characterization and determination of the band‐gap discontinuity of the InxGa1−xAs/GaAs pseudomorphic quantum well

Single and multiple quantum well samples have been grown by atmospheric pressure metalorganic chemical vapor deposition at In compositions from 9 to 28% and layer thicknesses ranging from 15 to 140 A, depending upon the composition. Selected samples containing three quantum wells of a given composition but with different thicknesses were characterized by x‐ray double‐crystal diffractometry, low‐temperature photoluminescence, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Using a simulation technique based on the dynamical theory of x‐ray diffraction in concert with TEM measurements, the In composition in the quantum well as well as the thicknesses can be directly extracted. The peak positions of the photoluminescence are used to determine the strained and unstrained energy gap and the conduction band offsets associated with InxGa1−xAs of a given composition. We have found the discontinuities to be 60% of the difference in the energy gap of GaAs and strained InxGa1−xAs.
Hepatocellular carcinoma in a patient with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia involving the liver

A relationship between hepatocellular carcinoma and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia has been reported. This is a case of a 75-year-old woman with stable chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, not on treatment with an increased activity of serum alkaline phosphatase and negative liver disease work up. A liver biopsy revealed leukaemic infiltration without evidence of cirrhosis or fatty liver. Four years later, she presented with a rapidly progressive liver mass which was diagnosed as hepatocellular carcinoma histologically.
A new and unusual species of coccidium (Apicomplexa: Agamococcidiorida) from Caribbean scleractinian corals

Abstract Gemmocystis cylindrus gen. et sp. n. (Apicomplexa, Agamococcidiorida, Gemmocystidae fam. n.) is described from the mesenterial filaments of the Caribbean scleractinian corals Agaricia agaricites, Dendrogyra cylindrus, Diploria strigosa, Meandrina meandrites, Montastraea cavernosa, Porites astreoides, P. porites, and Porites sp. (Cnidaria, Scleractinia). In histological sections from D. cylindrus (type host), oocysts measured 13.3 × 7.6 (12−15 × 7−9) μm and had a thick oocyst wall. Shape index (length/width) 1.8 (1.5−1.9). A micropyle was present; but sporocysts, an oocyst residuum, and a polar granule were lacking. Initially, a thin, flexible oocyst wall was produced around the zygote following fusion of two sporozoites. Unequal, longitudinal fission of the zygote and of the resulting sporozoites, led to the formation of up to six sporozoites within the oocyst. Mature sporozoites measured 11.3 × 3 (10−12.5 × 2.5−3.5) μm and had a granular cytoplasm and a single, large, basophilic nucleus; refractile bodies were absent. Mature oocysts were observed both excysting in situ and being discharged into the gastrovascular cavity. Other than vacuolation of gastrodermal cells of the mesenterial filament lobes during heavy infections, no pathology was evident in colonies of D. cylindrus, P. astreoides, or P. porites. However, the presence of coccidian oocysts in A. agaricites, M. meandrites, and M. cavernosa was associated with loss of zooxanthellae, resulting in patchy bleaching and necrosis of tissues over the surface of these colonies.
“Commentary on: The Percutaneous Trampoline Platysmaplasty: Technique and Experience With 105 Consecutive Patients”

In their article, Dr. Mueller and his coauthors describe a novel percutaneous or “closed” approach to the submental area with convincing long-term follow-up. Their procedure borrows from and cleverly expands on several previously well-described techniques. As implied by the authors, contour improvement by liposuction of the submental and submandibular area occurs not only due to fat removal but, just as importantly, because of the unique ability of neck skin to contract once released from its platysmal attachments. Spanning or “woven” sutures, popularized by Giampapa and others,1-3 provide an underlying support or “hammock” effect for the soft tissue above the sutures. The technique described by Mueller et al features a more extensive “back-and-forth” weave with the addition of suture anchoring to the mandibular osteocutaneous and platysmal-auricular ligaments. Although spanning sutures have experienced periods of popularity, …
Image repair rhetoric and shock radio: Don Imus, Al Sharpton, and the Rutgers women's basketball team controversy.

In 2007, shock jock Don Imus, while on the air, referred to the Rutgers University women's basketball team as “nappy-headed hos.” His initial apology did little to defuse calls for his firing, so Imus accepted an invitation to appear on civil rights activist Al Sharpton's radio show to address the criticisms. Following the interview, Sharpton appeared on CNN's Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer to discuss his conversation with Imus. This essay performs a close critical analysis of both interviews to better understand the tensions between apologia discourse and political talk radio and the influence of talk and shock radio culture on mainstream news coverage and media culture.
Asymmetric adaptive modeling of central tarsal bones in racing greyhounds.

Fatigue fracture of the cuboidal bones of the foot, especially the navicular tarsal bone, is common in athletes and dancers. The racing greyhound is a naturally occurring animal model of this injury because both microcracking and complete fracture occur in the right central (navicular) tarsal bone (CTB). The right limb is on the outside when racing in a counter-clockwise direction on circular tracks, and is subjected to asymmetric cyclic compressive loading. We wished to study in more detail adaptive modeling in the right CTB in racing greyhounds. We hypothesized that cyclic asymmetric loading of a cuboidal bone induced by racing on a circular track would induce site-specific bone adaptation. We also hypothesized that such an adaptive response would be attenuated in greyhounds that were retired from racing and no longer subjected to cyclic asymmetric loading. Central tarsal bones from racing greyhounds (racing group, n = 6) and retired greyhounds being used for breeding (nonracing group, n = 4) were examined using quantitative computed tomography (CT). Bone mineral density (BMD) was determined in a 3-mm diameter region-of-interest (ROI) in six contiguous 1-mm-thick sagittal CT slices of each CTB. Bones were subsequently examined histomorphometrically and percentage bone area (B.Ar./T.Ar., %) was determined in 10 ROI from dorsal to plantar in a transverse plane, mid-way between the proximal and distal articular surfaces. The BMD of the right CTB was greater than the left in all greyhounds (p 0.8; power = 80% at Delta = 48%). It was concluded that greyhounds racing on circular tracks develop site-specific bone adaptation with compaction of trabecular bone and increase in BMD in the right CTB in particular, the most common site for fatigue fracture. Our data also suggested that partial reversal of this adaptive process occurred in retired, nonracing greyhounds, after cessation of asymmetric cyclic loading at racing speed. Racing greyhounds provide a model in which to study fatigue fracture and adaptation of cuboidal foot bones subjected to cyclic loading.
The g-factor of the 25/2 + isomeric state in 207 At; evidence for neutron excitation

The g-factor of the 2117 keV 252+ isomer in 207At has been measured to be g = 0.30 ± 0.01, which strongly supports a (vi132−1)(vf52−1)9− ⊗ (φh923)92− structure. In addition, a calculation of the multiplet energies for this structure agrees with the observation that the lowest-lying member has a spin Jmax−1 = 252.
Blockade of hydromorphone effects by buprenorphine/naloxone and buprenorphine

Rationale: Buprenorphine is an opioid agonist–antagonist used in the treatment of opioid dependence. Naloxone has been combined with buprenorphine to decrease the parenteral abuse potential of buprenorphine. This addition of naloxone may also confer further opioid blockade efficacy. Objectives: To test the opioid blockade efficacy of sublingual buprenorphine/naloxone versus buprenorphine alone and determine whether: (1) the blockade efficacy of buprenorphine/naloxone varies between the time of expected maximal and minimal effects of naloxone, (2) the blockade efficacy of buprenorphine/naloxone and buprenorphine varies as a function of maintenance dose level, and (3) there are adaptive changes over time associated with repeated daily dosing of buprenorphine/naloxone and buprenorphine. Methods: Residential subjects (n=6) were maintained on different double-blind dose levels of buprenorphine/naloxone (4/1, 8/2, 16/4, 32/8 mg) and buprenorphine (32 mg) for 6-day periods and challenged with parenteral doses of hydromorphone (12 mg) in laboratory sessions. Results: There was no evidence of additional opioid blockade efficacy conferred by combining naloxone with buprenorphine. Higher doses of buprenorphine/naloxone provided greater blockade of hydromorphone effects. Changes over time associated with repeated daily dosing of buprenorphine/naloxone and buprenorphine were minimal. Conclusions: The addition of naloxone to buprenorphine may deter the parenteral abuse of buprenorphine/naloxone, but it does not enhance the therapeutic efficacy of buprenorphine. The blockade efficacy of buprenorphine/naloxone is dose related; however, doses up to 32/8 mg buprenorphine/naloxone provide only partial blockade when subjects receive a high dose of an opioid agonist.
Physician gender and cesarean sections.

Background: Among consumers insurers, and providers there is pervasive concern regarding the high incidence of cesarean section delivery. To date, attempts to reduce these rates have focused on the clinical behavior of providers resulting in only minimal changes. Therefore, non-medical variables must be investigated as potential explanatory factors for the decision to perform cesarean delivery. Methods: Data were collected on clinical and non-clinical factors for obstetrician-gynecologists delivering at Yale-New Haven Medical Center to measure the impact of these factors on the performance of cesarean sections. Specifically, variation in patient demographic, ante- and intra-partum risk variables, practice setting, and doctor-specific characteristics were examined. Using contingency table and logistic regression analyses the contribution of selected factors was evaluated. Results: Multivariate modeling revealed that male physicians were significantly more likely than their female colleagues to perform cesarean section. This relationship was particularly strong in the university practice setting. Conclusions: Efforts to reduce the incidence of cesarean section need to focus on the continuing education of health care providers and the delineation of non-clinical factors as essential elements in the election of specific clinical therapies.
SU-GG-J-54: Evaluation of Residual Errors in Online Guidance of Primary and Nodal Targets in Lung Cancer

Purpose: To evaluate the accuracy of online guidance for primary and nodal lungcancer targets. Method and Materials: Weekly CT scans under active breathing control were acquired during treatment for 18 patients enrolled as research subjects. Separate primary gross tumor volume (GTVP) and involved lymph node GTVs (GTVLN) were delineated by a physician on all images. Each weekly online image was aligned to the reference (planning) image automatically using a rigid image‐based registration. Four rectangular regions of interest were evaluated for the ability to match the target structures: the whole image; the GTVP + 1 cm; the GTVLN + 1 cm; and both the GTVP and GTVLN + 1 cm. The GTVs on the online images were translated according to this new registration, and the centroid displacements of the delineated GTVs were calculated to measure the residual error after image‐based alignment. Results: The mean absolute error was 5.1 ± 4.7 mm for the GTVP and 6.4 ± 6.9 mm for the GTVLN. The combined mean absolute error was 5.7 ± 5.9 mm for both structures. Rigid registration of GTVP + 1 cm yielded the smallest residual error (RE) for the primary tumor of 3.3 ± 3.9 mm, with a RE of 4.8 ± 4.8 mm for the lymph nodes. Registration of GTVLN + 1 cm provided the smallest RE for the lymph nodes of 4.1 ± 5.8 mm, though the primary tumor RE was 5.0 ± 4.9. The smallest combined RE for both structures was 4.0 ± 4.5, which was obtained using rigid registration of the GTVP + 1 cm. Conclusion: Shape, volume, and relative position change of multiple targets introduces error into soft‐tissue localization in locally‐advanced lungcancer, although tumor regression was the dominant source of error. Deformable registration methods may be required to improve localization accuracy.
Modes of Diagenesis Responsible for Observed Succession of Potash Evaporites in the Salado Formation, Delaware Basin, New Mexico

ABSTRACT Clays are a prevalent constituent of the McNutt Potash Member of the upper Salado Formation (Permian), New Mexico. The mode of clay distribution is varied and is an important indicator of fluid movement. Clays in the study area occur as thick clay seams (up to 4 cm), disseminated deposits, and as linings on crystal contacts of evaporite minerals. These different occurrences represent different conditions during evaporite deposition: 1) Thick clay seams represent major incursions of fresh seawater diluting the brine in the shallow Delaware basin; 2) disseminated deposits represent undisturbed portions of primary evaporite deposition; and 3) clay linings on langbeinite and sylvite depict percolation of solutions that dissolve preexisting minerals, resulting in deposition of clays during downward migration of the solution front. Although the clay chemistry varies little, the clay mineralogy differs with respect to its associated evaporite mineralogy. Low-charge corrensite is associated with potassium-deficient salts like halite, anhydrite, and polyhalite. High-charge corrensite is associated with potassium-rich salts like sylvite and langbeinite. Three modes of evaporite diagenesis are invoked to explain the major evaporite mineral assemblages in the McNutt Potash Member. Syndepositional alteration best explains the occurrence of polyhalite. Burial diagenesis fits well in explaining the minor amounts of kainite replacing langbeinite in (or near) clay-rich areas. Retrograde diagenesis seems to be the dominant mechanism responsible for formation of the potash bitter salts. The retrograde process involves percolation of fresh seawater into poorly crystallized strata, causing the replacement of primary salts like kainite, kieserite, and carnallite with secondary salts like langbeinite, sylvite, and loewite.
The dissociation of alpha- and beta-lipovitellin in aqueous solution. II. Influence of protein phosphate groups, sulphydryl groups, and related factors.

Removal of protein phosphate groups from α- and β-lipovitellin by means of a phosphatase has shown that these groups do not take part in the dissociation–association process. They appear, however, to be responsible for a difference in their ease of complex formation with calcium ions, and also for their different chromatographic behavior on columns of hydroxyapatite.Both lipovitellins contain about 26 μmoles/g of sulphydryl groups. Sulphydryl group reagents had no effect on the dissociation of α-lipovitellin but markedly changed the behavior of β-lipovitellin. N-Ethylmaleimide and p-chloromercuribenzoate displaced the equilibrium towards the associated form at all pH values below pH 10, but iodoacetamide tended to stabilize the dissociated form against pH changes. The different behavior of these reagents indicates that the sulphydryl groups are not directly involved in the dissociation but their substitution probably causes other changes in β-lipovitellin that affect its dissociation.
Top convention paper productivity in the U.S.: Analysis of national communication association (NCA) and international communication association (ICA) awards 1994–1998

Doctoral institutions were ranked (1) globally, and (2) according to selected specialties in communication studies based on a combination of NCA and ICA top convention paper awards from 1994 through 1998. In conjunction with other data on the research productivity of doctoral institutions in communication studies, students, faculty, and administrators are urged to utilize the results of this study to assess the programs of particular doctoral institutions. Not only can the schools listed here be compared to other schools not listed, but those listed can also be compared with each other either globally or in particular specialties.
Simple Perineal Prostatectomy: Lessons Learned from a Modern Series

ABSTRACTPurpose: Experience with simple perineal prostatectomy has not been well described in the recent literature. We describe our operative technique and compare objective demographic, preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative parameters in patients undergoing open prostatectomy for benign prostatic hyperplasia via 3 routes, namely perineal, retropubic, and suprapubic.Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed all cases of open prostatectomy at Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Diego between August 2001 and September 2002. A total of 22 patients were identified. Objective parameters were recorded and compared, including patient age, history of urinary retention, ultrasound volume, prostate specific antigen, patient and specimen weight, operative time, estimated blood loss, transfusion requirement, days of hospitalization and postoperative analgesic requirement.Results: In the 22 patients who underwent open prostatectomy the operative approach was perineal in 6, retropubic in 8 and supra...
Impacts of erosion control treatments on native vegetation recovery after severe wildfire in the Eastern Cascades, USA

Slope stabilisation treatments like mulching and seeding are used to increase soil cover and reduce runoff and erosion following severe wildfires, but may also retard native vegetation recovery. We evaluated the effects of seeding and fertilisation on the cover and richness of native and exotic plants and on individual plant species following the 2004 Pot Peak wildfire in Washington State, USA. We applied four seeding and three fertilisation treatments to experimental plots at eight burned sites in spring 2005 and surveyed vegetation during the first two growing seasons after fire. Seeding significantly reduced native non-seeded species richness and cover by the second year. Fertilisation increased native plant cover in both years, but did not affect plant species richness. Seeding and fertilisation significantly increased exotic cover, especially when applied in combination. However, exotic cover and richness were low and treatment effects were greatest in the first year. Seeding suppressed several native plant species, especially disturbance-adapted forbs. Fertilisation, in contrast, favoured several native understorey plant species but reduced tree regeneration. Seeding, even with native species, appears to interfere with the natural recovery of native vegetation whereas fertilisation increases total plant cover, primarily by facilitating native vegetation recovery.
Burns in Children

One of our readers wrote concerning the article, "Burns in Children," (PIR 4:271, 1983): "There is a difference of opinion between experts regarding early use of colloid solution in treatment of second and third degree burns. Guzzetta and Randolph do not recommend colloid, whereas other experts do. What is the consensus of experts?" In reply: The use of colloid solution as part of the fluid resuscitation formula in burned children is controversial. Baxter has shown that for the first 24 hours a "capillary leak" exists throughout the body and not just in the burned area. It is difficult to justify using a more expensive volume expander such as albumin, when the capillaries are equally permeable to both the colloid and Ringer9s lactate.
U. S. Seismic Networks: A Time for Change

The following is based on my “parting comments” made at the annual meeting of the Council of the National Seismic System (CNSS) in May of this year. These comments originate from my experiences over the last two years as Chairman of the CNSS and reflect some of the frustrations I experienced as well as recognition of progress made and my hopes for the future. While they are mostly for the benefit of seismic network operators and staff, they may be of interest to anyone concerned about the future of long-term seismic monitoring in the U.S. First, as Vice-chairman and then Chairman of the CNSS, I learned a lot about the complex aspects of cooperation between networks and the coordination needed to serve our many clients effectively. I gained a new appreciation of many individuals who take responsibility for making things work on a scale larger than a single network. Unfortunately,...
Analysis of Telomerase in Candida albicans: Potential Role in Telomere End Protection

Telomerase is a ribonucleoprotein reverse transcriptase responsible for the maintenance of one strand of telomere terminal repeats. Analysis of the telomerase complex in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae has revealed the presence of one catalytic protein subunit (Est2p/TERT) and at least two noncatalytic components (Est1p and Est3p). The genome of the pathogenic yeast Candida albicans contains putative orthologues of all three telomerase components. Disruption of each homologue resulted in significant but distinct telomere dysfunction in Candida. Similar to S. cerevisiae, the Candida EST3 disruption strain exhibits progressive telomere loss over many generations, at a rate that is consistent with incomplete replication. In contrast, telomeres in both the Candida TERT and EST1 disruption strains can contract rapidly, followed by partial or nearly complete recovery, suggesting a defect in telomere “capping.” We propose that these two telomerase subunits may participate in the protection of chromosomal ends in Candida. Analysis of telomerase-mediated primer extension in vitro indicates that only the TERT protein is absolutely essential for enzyme activity. Our results support the conservation of telomerase protein components beyond the catalytic subunit but reveal species-specific phenotypic alterations in response to loss of individual telomerase component. We also identify potential homologues of Est1p in phylogenetically diverse organisms. The Est1p sequence family possesses a conserved N-terminal domain predicted to be structurally related to tetratricopeptide repeat-containing proteins.
Blends of glycidyl methacrylate/methyl methacrylate copolymers with poly(vinylidene fluoride)

Blends of glycidyl methacrylate (GMA)/methyl methacrylate (MMA) copolymers with poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) were found to be miscible when the GMA content of the copolymer is 35.7 wt % or less. The miscible blends did not phase separate upon heating prior to thermal decomposition. The melting point depression method, based on both the Flory-Huggins theory and the equation of state theory of Sanchez-Lacombe, was used to evaluate interaction parameters for each pair. The magnitude of these parameters appears to be much larger than interaction energies evaluated by other methods. Possible reasons for this are discussed. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
“Once You Go to a White School, You Kind of Adapt” Black Adolescents and the Racial Classification of Schools

Studies of when youth classify academic achievement in racial terms have focused on the racial classification of behaviors and individuals. However, institutions—including schools—may also be racia...
Metagenomic analysis of respiratory tract DNA viral communities in cystic fibrosis and non-cystic fibrosis individuals.

The human respiratory tract is constantly exposed to a wide variety of viruses, microbes and inorganic particulates from environmental air, water and food. Physical characteristics of inhaled particles and airway mucosal immunity determine which viruses and microbes will persist in the airways. Here we present the first metagenomic study of DNA viral communities in the airways of diseased and non-diseased individuals. We obtained sequences from sputum DNA viral communities in 5 individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) and 5 individuals without the disease. Overall, diversity of viruses in the airways was low, with an average richness of 175 distinct viral genotypes. The majority of viral diversity was uncharacterized. CF phage communities were highly similar to each other, whereas Non-CF individuals had more distinct phage communities, which may reflect organisms in inhaled air. CF eukaryotic viral communities were dominated by a few viruses, including human herpesviruses and retroviruses. Functional metagenomics showed that all Non-CF viromes were similar, and that CF viromes were enriched in aromatic amino acid metabolism. The CF metagenomes occupied two different metabolic states, probably reflecting different disease states. There was one outlying CF virome which was characterized by an over-representation of Guanosine-5′-triphosphate,3′-diphosphate pyrophosphatase, an enzyme involved in the bacterial stringent response. Unique environments like the CF airway can drive functional adaptations, leading to shifts in metabolic profiles. These results have important clinical implications for CF, indicating that therapeutic measures may be more effective if used to change the respiratory environment, as opposed to shifting the taxonomic composition of resident microbiota.
Characterization of polysilicon contacts by photoconductance measurements

The confinement property of polysilicon contacts, leading to storage of minority carriers, has been studied using the photoconductivity technique. Steady-state and transient optical measurement show a considerable increase of stored carriers by these contacts. A model has been developed that allows the extraction of contact parameters. >
The effect of code expanding optimizations on instruction cache design

Shows that code expanding optimizations have strong and nonintuitive implications on instruction cache design. Three types of code expanding optimizations are studied in this paper: instruction placement, function inline expansion, and superscalar optimizations. Overall, instruction placement reduces the miss ratio of small caches. Function inline expansion improves the performance for small cache sizes, but degrades the performance of medium caches. Superscalar optimizations increase the miss ratio for all cache sizes. However, they also increase the sequentiality of instruction access so that a simple load forwarding scheme effectively cancels the negative effects. Overall, the authors show that with load forwarding, the three types of code expanding optimizations jointly improve the performance of small caches and have little effect on large caches. >
DNA methylation changes in murine breast adenocarcinomas allow the identification of candidate genes for human breast carcinogenesis

Epigenetic inactivation due to aberrant promoter methylation is a key process in breast tumorigenesis. Murine models for human breast cancer have been established for nearly every important human oncogene or tumor suppressor gene. Mouse-to-human comparative gene expression and cytogenetic profiling have been widely investigated for these models; however, little is known about the conservation of epigenetic alterations during tumorigenesis. To determine if this key process in human breast tumorigenesis is also mirrored in a murine breast cancer model, we mapped cytosine methylation changes in primary adenocarcinomas and paired lung metastases derived from the polyomavirus middle T antigen mouse model. Global changes in methylcytosine levels were observed in all tumors when compared to the normal mammary gland. Aberrant methylation and associated gene silencing was observed for Hoxa7, a gene that is differentially methylated in human breast tumors, and Gata2, a novel candidate gene. Analysis of HOXA7 and GATA2 expression in a bank of human primary tumors confirms that the expression of these genes is also reduced in human breast cancer. In addition, HOXA7 hypermethylation is observed in breast cancer tissues when compared to adjacent tumor-free tissue. Based on these studies, we present a model in which comparative epigenetic techniques can be used to identify novel candidate genes important for human breast tumorigenesis, in both primary and metastatic tumors.
3‐Hydroxy‐2‐pyrone

[496-64-0] C5H4O3 (MW 112.09) InChI = 1S/C5H4O3/c6-4-2-1-3-8-5(4)7/h1-3,6H InChIKey = LIPRKYKMVQPYPG-UHFFFAOYSA-N ([4 + 2] cycloaddition vinylketene diene equivalent2, 3) Physical Data: white, crystalline solid; mp 92 °C; mp (dihydrate) 80–85 °C; bp 112 °C/20 mmHg; sublimes at 50 °C/4 mmHg; λmax 294 nm (H2O). Solubility: 4–5 g/100 mL H2O; sol EtOH, Et2O, CHCl3, hot C6H6; slightly sol CS2, petroleum ether. Preparative Methods: acid-catalyzed decarboxylation–dehydration of mucic acid provides 3-hydroxy-2-pyrone in 20–40% yield: a three-neck round-bottom flask equipped with an overhead stirrer, thermometer, and distillation head is charged with a 1∶1 mixture of mucic acid and powdered KHSO4. The mixture is heated at 160–165 °C while ca. 1 mL of a light brown distillate per 2 g of mucic acid used is collected. The distillate is filtered and the pH adjusted to 7 using 6 N HCl. Continuous extraction with ether for ca. 12 h is followed by drying of the ether extract; concentration by rotary evaporation provides the crude product as a yellow solid. Recrystallization from petroleum ether or sublimation provides pure white crystalline material.3, 4 3-Hydroxy-2-pyrone also has been prepared by oxidation of 2-Pyrone.5
Using deadbands to reduce communication in networked control systems

The most effective way to improve networked control systems (NCSs) performance is to reduce network traffic. By adapting a system to a network configuration, the communication medium is more efficiently used and time-delays are minimized. Adjustable deadbands are explored as a solution to reduce network traffic in NCSs. The stability of deadband control is derived and then verified via simulation. A method to determine the size of the deadbands is presented that relies on a performance metric that takes into account system response as well as network traffic. The effectiveness of deadband control with different controllers is studied as well as the effect of disturbances and plant uncertainty.
Differential increase in prevalence estimates of inadequate sleep among black and white Americans

The National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) was used to ascertain whether increases in inadequate sleep differentially affected black and white Americans. We tested the hypothesis that prevalence estimates of inadequate sleep were consistently greater among blacks, and that temporal changes have affected these two strata differentially. NHIS is an ongoing cross-sectional study of non-institutionalized US adults (≥18 years) providing socio-demographic, health risk, and medical factors. Sleep duration was coded as very short sleep [VSS] ( 8 h), referenced to 7–8 h sleepers. Analyses adjusted for NHIS’ complex sampling design using SAS-callable SUDAAN. Among whites, the prevalence of VSS increased by 53 % (1.5 % to 2.3 %) from 1977 to 2009 and the prevalence of SS increased by 32 % (19.3 % to 25.4 %); prevalence of LS decreased by 30 % (11.2 % to 7.8 %). Among blacks, the prevalence of VSS increased by 21 % (3.3 % to 4.0 %) and the prevalence of SS increased by 37 % (24.6 % to 33.7 %); prevalence of LS decreased by 42 % (16.1 % to 9.4 %). Adjusted multinomial regression analysis showed that odds of reporting inadequate sleep for whites were: VSS (OR = 1.40, 95 % CI = 1.13-1.74, p < 0.001), SS (OR = 1.34, 95 % CI = 1.25-1.44, p < 0.001), and LS (OR = 0.94, 95 % CI = 0.85-1.05, NS). For blacks, estimates were: VSS (OR = 0.83, 95 % CI = 0.60-1.40, NS), SS (OR = 1.21, 95 % CI = 1.05-1.50, p < 0.001), and LS (OR = 0.84, 95 % CI = 0.64-1.08, NS). Blacks and whites are characteristically different regarding the prevalence of inadequate sleep over the years. Temporal changes in estimates of inadequate sleep seem dependent upon individuals’ race/ethnicity.
Triple pigtail technique: a novel way to determine the optimal angle of implantation during transcatheter aortic valve replacement while minimizing contrast load.

Determination of the optimal fluoroscopic perpendicular angle of implantation is an essential component for successful transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). This is commonly achieved with pre-procedural multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) and intra-procedural fluoroscopy-guided aortic root imaging. We present an 87-year-old lady with a medical history of chronic kidney disease stage 3 and severe aortic valvular stenosis with high-surgical-risk due to multiple other comorbidities, who underwent pre-operative TAVR work-up at an outside institution, including MDCT with limited amounts of contrast, which showed borderline left coronary height and sub-optimally predicted the angle of valve implantation. Patient was referred to our institution for TAVR and additional arterial access was obtained during the procedure to facilitate prophylactic protection of the left main coronary ostium with a guidewire during valve implantation. In order to better determine the optimal angle of valve implantation, a ‘‘triple pigtail catheter’’ technique was used consisting of placement of one pigtail catheter in the noncoronary cusp via the right radial artery, a second pigtail catheter in the right coronary cusp via the left femoral artery and a third pigtail catheter in the left coronary cusp via the right femoral artery (Fig. 1). This technique proved to be effective for accurately determine the optimal angle for valve deployment with a minimal contrast agent dose. The patient underwent successful TAVR and did not develop any contrast-induced nephropathy.
A Brief Study of Nutritional Status in Relation to Strength and Skill

(1940). A Brief Study of Nutritional Status in Relation to Strength and Skill. Research Quarterly. American Association for Health, Physical Education and Recreation: Vol. 11, No. 3, pp. 66-74.
Teaching Immigrant and Refugee Health to Residents: Domestic Global Health

Background: Half a million immigrants enter the United States annually. Clinical providers generally lack training in immigrant health. Description: We developed a curriculum with didactic, clinical, and analytic components to advance residents’ skills in immigrant and travel health. The curriculum focused on patients and their countries of origin and encompassed (a) societal, cultural, economical, and human rights profiles; (b) health system/ policies/resources/statistics, and environmental health; and (c) clinical manifestations, tropical and travel health. Residents evaluated sociocultural health beliefs and human rights abuses; performed history and physical examinations while precepted by faculty; developed specific care plans; and discussed patients in a dedicated immigrant health morning report. Evaluation: We assessed resident satisfaction using questionnaires and focus groups. Residents (n = 20) found clinical, sociocultural, and epidemiological components the most helpful. Morning reports reinfo...
Circadian Clock and Photoperiodic Response in Arabidopsis: From Seasonal Flowering to Redox Homeostasis

Many of the developmental responses and behaviors in plants that occur throughout the year are controlled by photoperiod; among these, seasonal flowering is the most characterized. Molecular genetic and biochemical analyses have revealed the mechanisms by which plants sense changes in day length to regulate seasonal flowering. In Arabidopsis thaliana, induction of the expression of a florigen, FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) protein, is a major output of the photoperiodic flowering pathway. The circadian clock coordinates the expression profiles and activities of the components in this pathway. Light-dependent control of CONSTANS (CO) transcription factor activity is a crucial part of the induction of the photoperiodic expression of FT. CO protein is stabilized only in the long day afternoon, which is when FT is induced. In this review, we summarize recent progress in the determination of the molecular architecture of the circadian clock and mechanisms underlying photoperiodic flowering. In addition, we introduce ...
Mesenteric arterial insufficiency. Clinical features.

Abdominal arterial disease may be manifested by massive occlusion, minor infarcts which may heal or undergo ulceration, or abdominal angina (the “small meal syndrome”). The much-debated concept of abdominal angina arising from stenosis or occlusion of arterial ostia has been amply substantiated. The pain of abdominal angina is qualitatively quite different from other pains associated with the ingestion of food.
Precision X-ray measurement of the position sensitivity of graphene field effect transistors

We have been exploring the graphene field-effect transistor (GFET) as a platform for detection of ionizing radiation, whereby the detection is achieved indirectly by use of the field effect in graphene, which is induced by the generation and transport of ionized charge carriers in the underlying undoped semiconductor substrate. An important characteristic of such a detector is scalability to large areas. Previous experimental studies suggest that the effective area significantly exceeds the size of graphene for field effect-based architectures, and this is also predicted from the operational principle of these devices. We describe the results of the experimental studies of GFETs on silicon carbide (SiC) substrates by use a microbeam X-ray facility, provided by the Advanced Photon Source at Argonne National Laboratory. The results confirm that the effective area of the GFET is significantly larger than that of graphene with response measured at distances as large as 1000 μm from 10-μm size graphene. A simple transport model has been developed and is used to explain the spatial dependence of the GFET response.