cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Matching slides to presentation videos using SIFT and scene background matching

We present a general approach for automatically matching electronic slides to videos of corresponding presentations for use in distance learning and video proceedings of conferences. We deal with a large variety of videos, various frame compositions and color balances, arbitrary slides sequence and with dynamic cameras switching, pan, tilt and zoom. To achieve high accuracy, we develop a two-phases process with unsupervised scene background modelling. In the first phase, scale invariant feature transform (SIFT) keypoints are applied to frame to slide matching, under constraint projective transformation (constraint homography) using a random sample consensus (RANSAC). Successful first-phase matches are then used to automatically build a scene background model. In the second phase the background model is applied to the remaining unmatched frames to boost the matching performance for difficult cases such as wide field of view camera shots where the slide shows as a small portion of the frame. We also show that color correction is helpful when color-related similarity measures are used for identifying slides. We provide detailed quantitative experimentation results characterizing the effect of each part of our approach. The results show that our approach is robust and achieves high performance on matching slides to a number of videos with different styles.
A negative-capacitance equivalent circuit model for parallel-plate capacitive-gap-transduced micromechanical resonators

A small-signal equivalent circuit for parallelplate capacitive-gap-transduced micromechanical resonators is introduced that employs negative capacitance to model the dependence of resonance frequency on electrical stiffness in a way that facilitates circuit analysis, that better elucidates the mechanisms behind certain potentially puzzling measured phenomena, and that inspires circuit topologies that maximize performance in specific applications. For this work, a micromechanical disk resonator serves as the vehicle with which to derive the equivalent circuits for both radial-contour and wine-glass modes, which are then used in circuit simulations (via simulation) to match measurements on actual fabricated devices. The new circuit model not only correctly predicts the dependence of electrical stiffness on the impedances loading the input and output electrodes of parallel-plate capacitive- gap-transduced micromechanical device, but does so in a visually intuitive way that identifies current drive as most appropriate for applications that must be stable against environmental perturbations, such as acceleration or power supply variations. Measurements on fabricated devices confirm predictions by the new model of up to 4× improvement in frequency stability against dc-bias voltage variations for contour- mode disk resonators as the resistance loading their ports increases. By enhancing circuit visualization, this circuit model makes more obvious the circuit design procedures and topologies most beneficial for certain mechanical circuits, e.g., filters and oscillators.
Dendritic structural plasticity in the basolateral amygdala after fear conditioning and its extinction in mice.

Previous research suggests that morphology and arborization of dendritic spines change as a result of fear conditioning in cortical and subcortical brain regions. This study uniquely aims to delineate these structural changes in the basolateral amygdala (BLA) after both fear conditioning and fear extinction. C57BL/6 mice acquired robust conditioned fear responses (70–80% cued freezing behavior) after six pairings with a tone cue associated with footshock in comparison to unshocked controls. During fear acquisition, freezing behavior was significantly affected by both shock exposure and trial number. For fear extinction, mice were exposed to the conditioned stimulus tone in the absence of shock administration and behavioral responses significantly varied by shock treatment. In the retention tests over 3 weeks, the percentage time spent freezing varied with the factor of extinction training. In all treatment groups, alterations in dendritic plasticity were analyzed using Golgi–Cox staining of dendrites in the BLA. Spine density differed between the fear conditioned group and both the fear extinction and control groups on third order dendrites. Spine density was significantly increased in the fear conditioned group compared to the fear extinction group and controls. Similarly in Sholl analyses, fear conditioning significantly increased BLA spine numbers and dendritic intersections while subsequent extinction training reversed these effects. In summary, fear extinction produced enduring behavioral plasticity that is associated with a reversal of alterations in BLA dendritic plasticity produced by fear conditioning. These neuroplasticity findings can inform our understanding of structural mechanisms underlying stress-related pathology can inform treatment research into these disorders.
Diffusion-Induced Stress, Interfacial Charge Transfer, and Criteria for Avoiding Crack Initiation of Electrode Particles

Most lithium-ion battery electrodes experience large volume changes caused by concentration changes within the host particles during charging and discharging. Electrode failure, in the form of fracture or decrepitation, can occur as a result of repeated volume changes. In this work, we first develop analytic solutions for the evolution of concentration and stresses within a spherical electrode element under charging-discharging conditions when the system thermodynamics are ideal (e.g., no repulsion forces are significant between intercalate species). Both interfacial (electrochemical) kinetics and intercalate diffusion are comprehended. Based on the analytic solutions, we propose tensile stress-based criteria for the initiation of cracks within a spherical insertion electrode. These criteria may help guide the development of new materials for lithium-ion batteries with enhanced mechanical durability and identify battery operating conditions that, when maintained, keep the mechanical stresses below acceptable values, thereby increasing cell life.
DSS4-1 is a dominant suppressor of sec4-8 that encodes a nucleotide exchange protein that aids Sec4p function.

THE protein Sec4p plays an essential role at the final stage of the yeast secretory pathway and belongs to the ras superfamily of GTP-binding proteins1, more specifically to a branch that includes Yptlp in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and rab proteins in mammalian cells. GTP-binding proteins change conformation depending on whether GTP or GDP is bound2 and can thus act as a regulatory switch. The protein remains in its inactive, GDP-bound form until exchange of GTP for GDP allows it to stimulate a downstream effector. This interaction is curtailed by GTP hydrolysis. The rates of nucleotide exchange and GTP hydrolysis can be regulated by interaction with accessory proteins3. Although GDP dissociation stimulators (GDS) have been identified that act on members of the ras and rho branches of the superfamily, less is known regarding GDSs that act on members of the Sec4/Yptl/Rab subgroup. A preliminary characterization of a Rab3A GDP dissociation stimulating activity has been presented4. We report here the use of suppressor analysis to clone a gene, dss4, encoding a 17K protein that aids Sec4p action in vivo by functioning as a GDP dissociation stimulator.
Density, distribution and mobility of surface anions on a normal/transformed cell pair

Abstract The distribution and mobility of cell surface anions was investigated on low passage cultures of secondary BALB/c embryonic fibroblasts and their SV40-transformed counterparts (VLM cells) using polycationized ferritin (PCF) as a label. While the absolute number of anions/nm 2 of membrane was equivalent on the two cell types, the topographical distribution and mobility of these anions was strikingly different. After pulse-labeling with PCF at 37 °C, anions on BALB/c fibroblasts occurred in large piled-up clusters separated by extensive areas of membrane (x = 0.47 μm) free of negative charges. Labeling at 4 °C reduced the degree of “piling up” within the clusters, but the intercluster spacing was maintained indicating that the anions have short-range mobility in the membrane and can be cross-linked into a tight lattice at 37 °C. These anions do not, however, demonstrate any long-range mobility during a 20 min post-label incubation in PBS. In contrast, anions on VLM cells are inherently present in a random configuration of microclusters and single anions with relatively small (x = 0.09 μm) intervening areas of low charge density. Short-range mobility of surface anions is not displayed, presumably as a result of the inter-site distance, but long-range mobility is indicated by the formation of large site clusters following a 20 min incubation in PBS after pulse-labeling. Very mild proteolysis of BALB/c fibroblasts induces a change in the topography of surface anions toward the random configuration typical of VLM cells. These data are discussed in relation to altered social interactions between tumor cells which may be influenced by cell-cell adhesion characteristics.
Amphibian embryo protease inhibitor V. Effect of calcium on the distribution of amphibian trypsin inhibitor during fertilization and subsequent development of Rana pipiens

Abstract In previous publications we have documented the existence in oocytes and embryos of a variety of forms (notably Rana pipiens), massive amounts of a powerful inhibitor of trypsin-like enzymes (ATI). The bulk of the inhibitor in Rana pipiens is localized in yolk platelets. We present evidence here that the distribution of the inhibitor between yolk platelets and cytosol changes and that this change is mediated by variations in the distribution of calcium ions. There is an inverse relationship between ATI and free calcium in the cytosol. Several workers have demonstrated a dramatic rise in free cytosol calcium immediately following fertilization. We confirm this observation, and demonstrate that there is a parallel and equally dramatic decrease in free cytosol ATI during this period. Experiments with purified yolk platelets indicate that calcium effects a release of sequestered inhibitor from these particles. Other experiments indicate that calcium mediates ATI-lippovitellin associations. A calcium mediated flux of ATI from cytosol to yolk is proposed as a device for controlling limited proteolysis in the cytoplasm. We offer this as a model for studying the unmasking of mRNA which follows fertilization.
64-kb Hybrid Josephson-CMOS 4 Kelvin RAM With 400 ps Access Time and 12 mW Read Power

We have designed, simulated, fabricated, and tested a 64-kb hybrid Josephson-CMOS memory using a 5 mm × 5 mm Josephson interface chip and a 2.0 × 1.5 mm CMOS chip. The Josephson chip uses the Hypres 4.5 kA/cm2 niobium technology and the CMOS chip is made using the TSMC 65-nm technology. The chips are connected using short wire bonds in a piggy-back package. The chip sizes and pad layouts have been constrained to allow testing in our wideband American Cryoprobe Model BCP-2 test probe to measure ultrashort delays. The test signals of 5-mV amplitude are chosen to represent the signals that would be supplied to the memory in a digital computing or signal processing system. Each input signal is first amplified in a four-junction logic gate driving a Suzuki stack, which, in turn, drives a highly sensitive CMOS comparator that raises the signal to volt level. Such amplifiers are provided for the address, data, read, and write inputs to the CMOS memory. Output currents from the memory cells are detected by ultrafast four-junction logic gates providing 5-mV output signals; an equivalent arrangement was used for the delay tests. The overall read delay is the access time, which we find to be about 400 ps. We extrapolate from the measured and calculated power dissipation in this partially accessed 64-kb memory to a fully accessed 64-kb memory and find the expected overall read power dissipation to be about 12 mW for operation at 1 GHz.
Yield spectrum for protons impacting on helium

An approximate yield spectrum is developed for proton energy degradation in helium and apply it to determination of the efficiency for the production of various characteristic emissions. 17 references.
Ground-based radar observations of Titan: 2000–2008

Abstract We have observed Titan with the Arecibo Observatory’s 12.6 cm wavelength radar system during the last eight oppositions of the Saturn system with sufficient sensitivity to characterize its scattering properties as a function of sub-Earth longitude. In a few sessions the Green Bank Telescope was used as the receiving instrument in a bistatic configuration to boost sub-radar track length and integration time. Radar echo spectra have been obtained for a total of 92 viewing geometries with sub-Earth locations scattered through all longitudes and at latitudes between 7.6°S and 26.3°S, close to the maximum southern excursion of the sub-Earth track. We find Titan to have globally average radar albedos at this wavelength of 0.161 in the opposite circular polarization sense as that transmitted (OC) and 0.074 in the same sense (SC), giving a polarization ratio SC/OC of 0.46. These values are intermediate between lower reflectivity rocky surfaces and higher reflectivity clean icy surfaces. The variations with longitude in general mirror the surface brightness variations seen through the infrared atmospheric windows. Xanadu Regio’s radar reflectivity and polarization ratio are higher than the global averages, and suggest that its composition is relatively cleaner water ice or, possibly, some other material with low propagation loss at radio wavelengths. For all echo spectra most of the power is in a broad diffuse component but with a specular component whose strength and narrowness is highly variable as a function of surface location. For all data we fit a sum of the standard Hagfors scattering law describing the specular component and an empirical diffuse radar scattering model to extract bulk parameters of the surface. Many areas exhibit very narrow specular reflections implying terrain that are quite flat on centimeter to meter scales over spans of tens to perhaps hundreds of kilometers. The proportion of spectra showing these narrow specular echoes has fallen significantly over the observational time span, indicating either a latitudinal effect related to terrain differences or changing surface conditions over the past several years. A few radar tracks, especially those from the 2008 session, overlap some high resolution Cassini RADAR imagery swaths to allow a direct comparison with terrain.
Detection of targets in low-resolution FLIR images using two-dimensional directional wavelets

This paper irtvesiigaies ihe use of Continuous Wavelei Transform (CWT) feaiires for deeciion of targets inlow resoluiion FLIR imagery. We specifically use ihe CWT features corresponding to the integration of targetf eatures at all relevant scales and orientations. These features are combined with non-linear transformations
An Application of Social Conflict Theory to Arrestees' Use of Cocaine and Opiates

The present study used data from the 1991 and 1992 Drug Use Forecasting projects and the 1990 census data to test the hypothesis that certain “structural disadvantage factors” identified by social conflict theory (Goode, 1997, 1999) contribute to explaining arrestees' use of cocaine and/or opiates. Using hierarchical nonlinear modeling techniques, this study explored whether social-control factors and demographic factors were effective predictors of arrestees' drug use. It also questioned whether the effects of such factors on drug use varied with the degree of structural disadvantage of the arrestees' residential districts. Overall, the study resulted in support for a link between a group of hard-drug users and contextual factors of structural disadvantage.
Probes Containing Gamma Radiation Detectors For In Vivo Tumor Detection And Imaging

External gamma-camera imaging using tumor-seeking radiotracers has been shown to be insensitive in the task of identifying small tumors situated deep inside the body. Our approach is to use probes containing miniature radiation detectors which, when maneuvered close to a tumor, overcome the limitations of external imaging. We discuss our results from using such probes for bronchoscopic and surgical tumor detection. A limitation that prevents the detection of small tumors with these probes is the spatial variation of the background count rate due to distant background sources of high radiotracer uptake. We present two techniques for solving this problem geometric background subtraction and imaging.
4465 Scheduled vs. as required stent exchanges for malignant biliary obstruction. a prospective randomized study.

Background: The best strategy for stent exchange in malignant biliary obstruction is not known. Some experts advocate routine prophylactic stent exchange every 3-4 months, a strategy which might lead to many unnecessary procedures. Aim: A prospective randomized study comparing 2 commonly practiced strategies: scheduled vs. as required stent exchanges. Methods: Pts. requiring biliary stenting for malignant obstruction were randomized to either (i) scheduled exchanges every 4 months or earlier if stents occluded (SCH) or (ii) exchanges only when stents occluded (PRN). End points were either metal stenting, surgery, death or resolution of stricture not needing stenting. LFTs were monitored monthly in both gps. Occlusion was defined as a doubling of nadir alkaline phosphatase or bilirubin. Results: Of the 69 pts. recruited 5 were excluded (4- benign; 1-immediate surgery). 30 pts. (9 M) were randomized to SCH and 34 pts. (15 M) to the PRN arm. The 2 gps. were comparable in all respects (SCH : PRN) mean ages (69:72); diagnoses (%) pancreatic Ca (73 : 76), cholangioCa (10 : 14), metastases (13 : 9) and ampullary Ca (1 : 0); mean comorbidity indices (0.83 : 0.97); & stent diameters (≥10 Fr). Number of ERCPs per pt. in the 2 gps. was not different, 2.1(SCH) vs 2(PRN). Number of stents per patient [(SCH : PRN): 1 stent (15:15); 2 stents (4:10); 3 stents (5:5); 4 stents (3:2); 5 stents (3:2)] and end points [death (22:26); metal stenting (6:7); surgery (1:0); misc (1:1)] were similar. Indications for metal stenting (SCH:PRN) duodenal stenosis (3:7) and rapid reocclusion (3:1) were similar. 43% pts. (SCH) and 47% pts. (PRN) died with patent stents. The mean stent survival was 90 d (SCH) vs 97 d (PRN), (p=NS). There was no difference in the survival time of each serial stent between the two gps. There was 1 episode of stent related cholangitis leading to death in the PRN arm on day 108 (T=3.82; p>0.05). There was no difference in the number of episodes of cholangitis; 10 in SCH vs 15 in PRN (T=1.29763; p>0.25). Time to death or other endpoints was not different in the two gps. (p=0.99). Conclusion: (1) There is no difference in measured outcomes when plastic stent exchanges are performed electively every 4 months or on an as required basis for biochemical occlusion in malignant biliary obstruction. (2) Using biochemical occlusion rather than clinical occlusion may result in a lower stent related mortality than previously reported. (3) Other factors (e.g. physical proximity, personal preference) should be used when selecting a strategy.
The effects of metallicity and grain growth and settling on the early evolution of gaseous protoplanets

Abstract Giant protoplanets formed by gravitational instability in the outer regions of circumstellar disks go through an early phase of quasi-static contraction during which radii are large (∼1 AU) and internal temperatures are low (
Historical photographs as anthropological documents: A retrospect

This essay reviews recent anthropological literature relating to the analytical use of ethnohistorical photographs. It looks at some of the philosophical issues involved in studying photographs as documents and demonstrates the need to analyze a body of related and contextualized photographs in the triadic relationship of photographer/ subject/viewer.
The pharmacological effects of allicin, a constituent of garlic oil.

Garlic has been used in herbal medicine for thousands of years. While garlic oil contains many components and has been widely studied, the pharmacology of pure allicin, a constituent of garlic oil, is not well understood. We report that allicin inhibits human platelet aggregationin vitro without affecting cyclooxygenase or thromboxane synthase activity or cyclic adenosine monophosphate (AMP) levels. Allicin does not alter the activity of vascular prostacyclin synthase. However, it inhibits ionophore A23187-stimulated human neutrophil lysosomal enzyme release.In vivo allicin dilates the mesenteric circulation of the cat independent of prostaglandin release or a beta adrenergic mechanism.
STABILITY OF ADENOSINE DEAMINASE AND ADENOSINE MONOPHOSPHATE DEAMINASE DURING ICE STORAGE OF PINK AND BROWN SHRIMP FROM THE GULF OF MEXICO

The stability of adenosine deaminase and AMP deaminase from pink and brown shrimp muscle extracts was assayed during postmortem ice storage. AMP deaminase activity was lost rapidly during the early stage of ice storage, and no activity could be detected after 10 days for pink and 16 days for brown shrimp. Even though there was a gradual loss in activity, adenosine deaminase could be detected in both species through the entire storage period of 21 days. The stability of these two enzymes was also correlated with the traditional spoilage indicators: total volatile nitrogen (TVN), total plate count (TPC) and organoleptic evaluations. During the lag-phase of bacterial growth, AMP deaminase lost 50% of its original activity while adenosine deaminase remained active. During the log phase, bacterial counts and TVN values gradually increased to 103/g and 30 mg TVN-N/100g, respectively, while AMP deaminase lost its activity. Finally, during the stationary phase, adenosine deaminase (with low activity) was the only ammonia producing tissue enzyme that could be detected. The activity of adenosine deaminase and AMP deaminase could potentially be used as quality indices for fresh shrimp held on ice.
Design sensitivity and finite element analysis of free surface flows with application to optimal design of casting rigging systems

A novel, fully-analytical design sensitivity formulation for transient, turbulent, free surface flows is derived and implemented in the context of finite element analysis. The time-averaged, turbulent form of the Navier–Stokes equations are solved using a mixing length model, in conjunction with the volume of fluid (VOF) method to model the free surface movement. The design derivatives of these governing equations are computed and solved to find the analytical sensitivities of the fluid position, velocity and pressure fields with respect to shape design variables. The computational efficiency produced by evaluating the sensitivities analytically is demonstrated. The design of the runner and gating system of a simple block casting is presented as an example application for using sensitivity information in design. The analytical sensitivity routine is coupled to a numerical optimizer to yield an automated method for optimal design of the casting rigging system. The results produce runner shapes which eliminate mold-gas aspiration. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inhibition of matrix metalloproteinases reduces local and distant organ injury following experimental acute pancreatitis

Background. Pulmonary complications from pancreatitis involve parenchymal destruction via proteolytic enzymes. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) may play an important role in pulmonary injury following acute severe pancreatitis. We hypothesized that local and distant organ injury would be decreased by the presence of an MMP inhibitor (Batimistat; BB-94) following severe acute pancreatitis (AP). Methods. Eighteen male rats were randomized into two groups: BB-94 (AP + 40 mg/kg/24 h BB-94 ip × three doses) or control (AP + 20 ml/kg/24 h normal saline ip × three doses). Necrotizing AP was induced by retrograde infusion of 5% sodium taurocholate (1.5 ml/kg) into the pancreatic duct. Twenty additional animals were randomized into BB-94 and control groups for the survival study. Serum was evaluated for amylase and MMP activity. Pancreatic sections were graded for edema, necrosis, neutrophil infiltrate, and hemorrhage. Myloperoxidase (MPO) activity was used to determine PMN infiltration in the lung. Evan’s Blue dye extravasation was used to quantify vascular permeability. Results. Animals in the BB-94 group had decreased amylase levels (1086.0 ± 61.7 U/L vs 2232.7 ± 309.9 U/L; P < 0.05), decreased cellular infiltrate (1.4 ± 0.2 vs 2.3 ± 0.2; P < 0.02), and decreased necrosis (4.1 ± 0.3 vs 6.1 ± 0.4; P < 0.005) compared to the control group. Lung tissue following pancreatitis in the BB-94 group demonstrated decreased MPO activity (41.5 ± 2.4 units vs 57.3 ± 2.9 units; P < 0.05) and decreased vascular permeability (18.3 ± 2.8 mg/100 g vs 30.1 ± 4.6 mg/100 g; P < 0.05). Animals treated with BB-94 had 100% survival compared to 50% survival in control at 72 h. Conclusions. Pancreatitis results in increased local and distant MMP activity. Pulmonary and pancreatic injury following AP can be abrogated by treatment with an MMP inhibitor (Batimistat; BB-94) which may result in decreased morbidity and mortality.
Novel nanostructured scaffolds as therapeutic replacement options for rotator cuff disease.

Rotator cuff injuries represent an extremely common cause of upper extremity disability1, resulting in substantial shoulder pain and dysfunction. Young athletes, middle-aged workers, and a substantial portion of the elderly population can sustain acute or degenerative rotator cuff injuries, which prevent them from working, playing sports, enjoying hobbies, or performing activities of daily living2,3. Active people, including athletes, are highly susceptible to rotator cuff problems, particularly as they advance in age4. It has been estimated that approximately 300,000 rotator cuff surgical procedures are performed each year in the United States. Traditionally, surgical repair of a rotator cuff consists of reapproximating the tendon edge to an anatomic footprint with the specific type of repair used (open, mini-open, or arthroscopic) dependent on the size, shape, and chronicity of the tear5,6. The disadvantages of the open techniques include a larger dissection and longer operating time, while the arthroscopic repairs have been associated with a limited amount of working area, a longer learning curve, and a higher percentage of recurrent lesions compared with the open or mini-open repair techniques7. In the past decade, surgical procedures that utilize autografts, cadaveric allografts, or patch grafts made from biological and synthetic materials have been developed to repair massive rotator cuff tears8-11. Several factors limiting the extensive use of these procedures include donor site morbidity, the limited availability of autografts, and the risk of disease transmission with allografts. Recent studies have shown advantages with the use of synthetic augmentation devices to support the healing of a torn rotator cuff, but few of the commercially available matrices truly mimic the biomechanical behavior of a natural rotator cuff tendon12. The integration of biological, chemical, and engineering principles to design a suitable bioresorbable rotator cuff scaffold serves as the basis for the tissue-engineered approach employed in the present investigation. The objective of this study was to develop a novel therapeutic strategy to support and accelerate the healing of a torn rotator cuff. A tissue-engineering approach with use of a nanostructured resorbable polymeric scaffold was hypothesized to produce a matrix with cellular and biomechanical properties suitable to provide initial strength and enhance the rate of regenerative repair. The components of this investigation included (1) fabrication of a nanofiber polymeric scaffold, (2) in vitro biological characterization, (3) development of an original rodent model, and (4) in vivo biomechanical characterization.
Uptake of water-soluble gasoline fractions and their effect on oxygen consumption in aquatic stages of the mosquito (Aedes aegypti (L.))

Abstract Oxygen consumption in aquatic stages of the mosquito (Aedes aegypti (L.)) was measured following a 24-h pretreatment in sublethal doses of water-soluble fractions from whole gasoline or its individual components (benzene, toluene and xylenes). A significant increase in O2 consumption occurred in treated-fed larvae following exposure to water-soluble fractions from either 1 ml gasoline/litre water or a mixture of 0·2 ml benzene and 0·2 ml toluene/litre water. No significant differences in respiration were observed in either unfed larvae or fed larvae pretreated with the separate fractions or combinations of xylenes with benzene or toluene. Uptake and discharge of toluene by 4th-instar larvae were measured in solutions containing water-soluble amounts of H3 toluene alone and in combination with benzene. These experiments suggest that water-soluble gasoline fractions are taken up by food particles and assimilated by the insects via feeding. The respiratory response of the larvae appears to be due to a synergistic effect of benzene and toluene that may affect cell permeability.
Mechanism of the Inhibitory Effect of Iodide on Thyroidal 131I Release in the Rat

Mouriz et al. (1) have recently reported that KI injected after propylthiouracil (PTU) given in incompletely blocking doses increased the thyroidal synthesis of iodothyronines. They suggested that this led to enhanced secretion of thyroid hormones, and hence decreased production of TSH, which then was reflected by a decline of the previously elevated thyroidal 131I release rate. However, we have found that KI leads to a rapid reduction of thyroidal 131I release in hypophysectomized rats given TSH and 5 or 30 rag PTU daily. Depressing effects of KI on thyroidal 131I release therefore do not have to involve altered secretion of TSH. Unlike Mouriz et al. (1), we did not find that KI increased the percentage of 131I in the iodothyronine fraction of thyroid homogenates of intact rats given incompletely blocking doses of PTU, nor did it have such an effect in similarly treated hypophysectomized, TSH-injected rats. (Endocrinology 81: 643, 1967)
Selected Resources for Emergency and Disaster Preparedness and Response from the United States National Library of Medicine

Abstract The Toxicology and Environmental Health Information Program (TEHIP) of the National Library of Medicine(r) (NLM) works to organize and provide access to a wide range of environmental health and toxicology resources. In recent years, the demand for, and availability of, information on health issues related to natural and man-made emergencies and disasters has increased. Recognizing that access to information is essential in disaster preparedness, a new focus of NLM's 2006-2016 Long Range Plan calls for the establishment of a Disaster Information Management Research Center (DIMRC) that will aid in collecting, disseminating, and sharing information related to health and disasters. This paper introduces several of TEHIP's resources for emergency/disaster preparedness and response, such as the Radiation Event Medical Management Web site (REMM) and the Wireless Information System for Emergency Responders (WISER) . Several of NLM's other disaster prepare...
ATR Pathway Is the Primary Pathway for Activating G2/M Checkpoint Induction After Re-replication

DNA replication is tightly controlled to ensure accurate chromosome duplication and segregation in each cell cycle. Inactivation of Geminin, an inhibitor of origin licensing, leads to re-replication in human tumor cells within the same cell cycle and triggers a G2/M checkpoint. We find that the primary pathway to signal that re-replication has been detected is the ATR kinase and the Rad9-Rad1-Hus1 (9-1-1) clamp complex together with Rad17-RFC clamp loader. ATM kinase and the Mre11-Rad50-Nbs1 complex do not appear to play significant roles in the checkpoint. Chk1 activation occurs at early stages, whereas Chk2 activation occurs much later. Overall we conclude that ATR/Chk1 pathway is activated at an early time point after the loss of Geminin and contributes to checkpoint arrest essential for the accumulation of re-replicated cells, whereas activation of the ATM/Chk2 pathway is a by-product of DNA re-replication at a later period.
Recovery of AIDS-Associated Retroviruses from Patients with AIDS or AIDS-Related Conditions and from Clinically Healthy Individuals

Lymphocytopathic retroviruses have been recovered from the peripheral mononuclear cells of over 160 individuals in all segments of the population known to be at risk for developing AIDS. They have not been isolated from individuals coming from outside the risk groups. Virus has been cultured from patients with AIDS or AIDS-related conditions and from clinically healthy individuals. Some of these AIDS-associated retroviruses (ARV) have been selected to be studied for differences in biologic and molecular features. The results support the role of this virus in AIDS and its associated diseases.
Lower Critical Dimension and the Roughening Transition of the Random-Field Ising Model

It is shown by a calculation analogous to that carried out by Wallace and Zia for the pure Ising model that the lower critical dimension of the Ising model in a random field is 3 and not 2 as suggested by domain energy arguments. Further, the critical dimension for the roughening transition is shown to be 5 as compared to 3 for the pure Ising model.
Genome-wide sperm deoxyribonucleic acid methylation is altered in some men with abnormal chromatin packaging or poor in vitro fertilization embryogenesis

Objective To evaluate genome-wide DNA methylation patterns in sperm from men with abnormal sperm chromatin packaging and patients displaying abnormal embryogenesis after IVF in the absence of known female factors. Design Case–control study. Setting University andrology and research laboratory. Patient(s) Men with abnormally high and low protamine 1/protamine 2 ratio (n = 15); patients who have undergone IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection resulting in abnormal embryogenesis (n = 13); and normozoospermic, fertile controls (n = 15). Intervention(s) Genome-wide sperm DNA methylation was measured using the Illumina Infinium HumanMethylation27 BeadChip assay. Follow-up targeted methylation analysis was performed using bisulfite pyrosequencing. Main Outcome Measure(s) Methylation levels at more than 27,000 CpGs genome-wide were compared between groups. Result(s) Of the 43 men analyzed, 40 displayed highly concordant methylation patterns; however, two men with abnormal protamine 1/protamine 2 and one abnormal embryogenesis patient displayed significantly altered methylation patterns across a large number of CpGs. Imprinted regions were more prone to deregulation than the genome at large. Conclusion(s) We have identified three individuals displaying broad disruption of sperm DNA methylation profiles. Although the sample set analyzed is relatively small, these results indicate that broad disruptions in sperm DNA methylation may be an important signature in some infertile men. Functional studies will be necessary to characterize the developmental consequences of such epigenetic disruption.
Landau damping and resultant unidirectional propagation of chorus waves

[1] Using a numerical ray tracing code and a model of the suprathermal electron distribution in the inner magnetosphere, we calculate the Landau damping of chorus waves under realistic conditions. The chorus emissions are assumed to originate at the magnetic equatorial plane with a wave normal angle set at the generalized Gendrin angle, and a wave frequency which is varied from 0.1 to 0.9 of the equatorial electron gyrofrequency. Each ray is propagated until its wave power is diminished by a factor of 10, at which point we record the propagation time, latitude, and the distance along the ray path from the equator. Results indicate that chorus waves are expected to propagate to latitudes of 10°–20° and are typically Landau damped before experiencing magnetospheric reflections, in agreement with satellite observations. In addition, we find longer propagation distances and lifetimes at those frequencies immediately above the half equatorial gyrofrequency and consider the possibility that this effect may contribute to the formation of the two-banded structure of chorus emissions.
The Renal Concentrating Defect Associated With Potassium Depletion Is Independent of Prostaglandin E2

Prostalandin E 2 (PGE 2 ) impairs the hydrosmotic effect of vasopressin in toad bladder and mammalian kidney. Because some studies in animals have suggested that potassium depletion enhances renal PGE 2 production, the present study examined whether the renal concentrating defect of potassium depletion in humans is mediated by PGE 2 . Five normal volunteers were studied before and after moderate potassium depletion achieved by 10 days of dietary potassium restriction and administration of a polystyrene sulfonate potassium exchange resin (Kayexalate). Maximal urinary osmolality (Umax) decreased from 1,094 ± 58 (mean ± SEM) to 820 ± 26 mmol/kg (mOsm/kg) ( P 2 excretion did not change (496 ± 145 and 435 ± 186 ng/d, respectively). Indomethacin suppressed PGE2 excretion significantly, but failed to increase Umax in either the normal or the potassium-depleted state (1,094 ± 34 and 825 ± 56 mmol/kg, respectively). It is concluded that the renal concentrating defect produced by moderate potassium restriction in humans is not mediated by PGE 2 .
Consistent Moral Formation in a Reformed Christian College

At Calvin College we embrace a particular moral story, one we believe is rooted in God’s truth as revealed in Biblical and natural revelation. The consistent teaching of this moral story across the entire college is based on our educational mission.
Sports Neuropsychology: Assessment and Management of Traumatic Brain Injury

Echemendia RJ, ed. New York, NY 10012, The Guilford Press, 2006, hardcover, 314 pp, illus, ISBN: 879-1-57230-078-7, $45. The goal of neuropsychology is to link science with practice in order to improve the daily function of people with neurocognitive deficits. Over the past 15 years, neuropsychology has expanded into the field of sports as research findings have revealed that many athletes suffer persistent cognitive and emotional symptoms following cerebral concussion, called “post-concussive syndrome.” This mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) that occurs in sports may or may not be associated with loss of consciousness but can have sequelae such as headache, dizziness, depression, irritability, impaired attention, and slowed mental processing. Although these symptoms usually resolve, in some cases they persist and impair the quality of life for the athlete. Awareness of this “silent epidemic” has grown in recent years, largely due to problems experienced by some high-profile athletes, and now neuropsychologists are becoming an integral member of many sports rehabilitation teams. This book, though not an exhaustive review of the …
Frequency and implications of HIV superinfection

HIV superinfection occurs when an individual with HIV is infected with a new distinct HIV viral strain. Superinfection has been reported throughout the world, and studies have recorded incidence rates of 0–7·7% per year. Use of next-generation sequencing has improved detection of superinfection, which can be transmitted by injecting drug use and sexual intercourse. Superinfection might have incidence rates comparable to those of initial HIV infection. Clinicians should encourage safe sexual and injecting drug use practices for HIV-infected patients because superinfection has detrimental effects on clinical outcomes and could pose a concern for large-scale antiretroviral treatment plans. The occurrence of superinfection has implications for vaccine research, since it seems initial HIV infection is not fully protective against a subsequent infection. Additional collaborative research could benefit care of patients and inform future vaccine design.
Methods for wide-field Kerr imaging of small magnetic devices

Wide-field magneto-optic Kerr observation techniques are described for the imaging of magnetic recording heads and other small magnetic devices. The imaging problems encountered for these samples are quite different from those for continuous films and lead to a different set of experimental approaches. Observation techniques that preserve the magnetic state of the sample allow for the implementation of new image acquisition algorithms based on multiple additions and subtractions that progressively build up a weak Kerr contrast even under unfavorable experimental conditions. Examples of results are presented. >
Expression Order of Alpha-v and Beta-3 Integrin Subunits in the N-Methyl-N-Nitrosourea-Induced Rat Mammary Tumor Model

We investigated the developmental time course of molecular expression of αvβ3 subunits in a carcinogen-induced rat mammary tumor model for human ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Tumors during various stages of growth (from 2.0 cm) were analyzed immunohistochemically for the expression of the αvβ3 integrin and its subunits. In general, the expression profiles of these integrin subunits were directly proportional to the size of the tumor. The pattern of immunostaining revealed that anti-αvβ3 monoclonal antibody binds to specific sites of tumor sections, forming isolated stained patches. This isolated patch pattern was found in more developed larger tumors. This could be due to the fact that the integrin molecule might be involved in migration and nesting of tumor cells into specific regions to form DCIS or intraductal carcinoma. Results also showed that the αv subunit expresses earlier than the β3 subunit. These data provide insight into tumor cell biology and developmental characteristics that will guide the future construction and use of targeted contrast and therapeutic agents capable of tracking, imaging, or treating a tumor at the earliest stage of formation.
Modeling the Effects of Ionospheric Scintillation on GPS Carrier Phase Tracking

A characterization is given for the behavior of Global Positioning System phase tracking loops in the presence of severe equatorial ionospheric scintillation. The purpose of this work is to develop a simple, general, and realistic scintillation effects model that can be used to improve the scintillation performance of phase tracking loops. The new characterization of scintillation effects proposed herein employs a differentially detected bit error model to predict cycle slipping rates that approximately agree with data-driven simulation tests.
Tubal and ovarian pathways to pelvic epithelial cancer: a pathological perspective

Prolongation of ovarian epithelial cancer survival depends on early detection or improved responses to chemotherapy. Gains in either have been modest at best. Understanding the diverse pathogenesis of this disease is critical to early intervention or prevention. This review addresses six important variables, including (i) cell of origin, (ii) site of origin, (iii) initial genotoxic events, (iv) risks imposed by hereditary and other promoting conditions, (v) subsequent factors that promote different patterns of metastatic spread, and (vi) prospects for intervention. This review proposes two distinct pathways to pelvic epithelial cancer. The first initiates in ovarian surface epithelium (OSE), Mullerian inclusions or endometriosis in the ovary. The second arises from the endosalpinx and encompasses a subset of serous carcinomas. The serous carcinogenic sequence in the distal fallopian tube is described and contrasted with lower grade serous tumors based on tumour location, earliest genetic change and ability (or lack of) to undergo terminal (ciliated) differentiation. Ultimately, a clear understanding of tumour origin and the mechanism(s) leading to the earliest phases of the serous and endometrioid carcinogenic sequences may hold the greatest promise for designing prevention strategies and/or developing new therapies.
Electrical Activity in canine sinus node cells during arrest produced by acetylcholine.

Abstract Acetylcholine (ACh) in concentrations above 0.1 μg/ml causes temporary arrest of the heart since it (1) suppresses sinus node automaticity and (2) blocks sino-atrial conduction. These two factors appear simultaneously and it has been difficult to decide if one or if both of them remain in force throughout the period of atrial arrest. By using microelectrodes in the isolated, perfused canine sinus node we recorded transmembrane potentials during normal sinus rhythm, atrial pacing, and atrial arrest. Automaticity (the rate of subthreshold impulse generation) recovered within the first minute after ACh but sinoatrial conduction of the impulses remained suppressed; action potential amplitude was less than 30 mV. Sinoatrial conduction was restored 1 ± 0.5 min later as the sinus node action potentials reached amplitudes exceeding 30 mV. Therefore, the chronotropic and dromotropic effects of ACh appear to be two separate changes, each being demonstrated independently.
Impact of Canal Design Limitations on Water Delivery Operations and Automation

automation Abstract: Irrigation canals are often designed for water transmission. The design engineer simply ensures that the canal will pass the maximum design discharge. However, irrigation canals frequently operated far below design capacity. Because demands, and therefore the distribution of flow at bifurcations (branch points), can vary from day to day, or even from hour to hour, to meet user demands, the hydraulic grade line of the canal can vary significantly over the range of flows encountered. This complicates the operator's job of distributing flow to users. Common problems include; insufficient head at low flows for turnouts in the upper end of pools, gates that transition from free to submerged flow over the range of conditions, culverts that greatly change the pool volume over the range of discharges due to backwater effects, canal gates that are oversized for safety which limits small discharge changes, variable backwater conditions that compromise flow measurement devices (both in pipes and channels), incompatible hardware for automated control of check gates, etc. Examples from canal systems in Central Arizona are given with options for improving operations. This quote from an irrigation district engineer says it best "Design engineers should be forced to operate the canal systems that they design."
Using Storyboarding to Determine Components of Wellness for University Students

Abstract Using a needs-assessment technique called story-boarding to determine characteristics of health promotion and wellness among university students is discussed. Storyboarding allows students to work together as they generate ideas and eliminates the territorial defensiveness that often occurs when new ideas are suggested. Sixteen graduate students in a health education teaching methods course demonstrated the use of the technique to identify characteristics of wellness for university students. In addition, they identified content areas and outlined key programs, services, personal habits, and skills useful for enhancing university students' wellness.