cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mitochondrial matrix densities in myocardial ischemia and autolysis

Abstract A method is described for the isolation of amorphous intramitochondrial densities which develop in dog myocardium during autolysis, and which are an important hallmark of early ischemic injury. Chemical and fine structural analysis including microincineration studies show that these amorphous densities are composed of lipid and/or protein, that they have a capacity to sequester calcium, and that they differ from the calcium containing granular dense bodies which occur following temporary myocardial ischemia.
Transfer of Borrelia Burgdorferi s.s. Infection via Blood Transfusion in a Murine Model

Without antibiotic treatment, the Lyme-disease–causing bacterium, Borrelia burgdorferi can be cultured from the peripheral blood of human patients nearly 6 wk post-tick bite. To determine if Lyme disease spirochetes can be transmitted from a spirochetemic donor mouse to a naive recipient during blood transfusion, blood taken from immunocompetent infected mice was transfused into either immunodeficient (SCID) mice, inbred immunocompetent animals (C3H/HeJ), or outbred mice. Nine of 19 (47.7%) immunodeficient mice, 7 of 15 (46.8%) inbred immunocompetent mice, and 6 of 10 (60.0%) outbred mice became infected with B. burgdorferi after transfusion. Our results indicate that it is possible to acquire B. burgdoferi infection via transfused blood in a mouse model of Lyme borreliosis.
Presence of spermatozoa in uterovaginal fluids of the hen at various stages of the ovulatory cycle.

Abstract INTRODUCTION BOBR (1962), in studying the distribution of spermatozoa in the oviduct of the hen, identified in the uterovaginal region of the oviduct, tubular glands which contained large numbers of spermatozoa following natural mating or artificial insemination. The nomenclature of these structures, which have been called by a variety of names in recent years, has been reviewed by Gilbert et al. (1968). In this study the structures will be termed uterovaginal or UV glands. Bobr (1962) and Bobr et al. (1964) studied the distribution of spermatozoa in the hen’s oviduct at various stages of the ovulatory cycle. They washed segments of the oviduct and microscopically examined resuspended pellets obtained by centrifugation of the washings. Using small samples of hens, they found spermatozoa in the washings from the uterus, isthmus, magnum, and infundibulum, but only within a relatively short time after oviposition. They concluded that spermatozoa were released from UV glands…
Post-Soviet Estonia, 1991–1993

(1994). Post-Soviet Estonia, 1991–1993. Journal of Baltic Studies: Vol. 25, No. 1, pp. 73-80.
Millimetre-sized hollow spheres of lead zirconate titanate by a sol-gel method

Hollow spheres of lead zirconate titanate (PZT) [chemical formula Pb(Zr0.52Ti0.48)O3)], with outer diameter of 1–2 mm and a wall thickness of about 100 μm, were fabricated by gellation of a PZT sol inside solid polymer spheres and then burning the polymer out. Monomodally sized polyacrylamide spheres, with diameter 1.40–1.90 mm, were soaked in a PZT sol, prepared by dissolving Pb(NO3)2, zirconiumn-butoxide and titanium isopropoxide inN, N-dimethylformamide. The absorbed sol was then gelled beneath the surface of the polymer sphere by the action of NH3. Upon calcination of the spheres at 850 °C for 4 h in air, hollow spheres of pure PZT perovskite phase (as identified by X-ray diffraction patterns) were obtained. The density of the hollow spheres was 1.13gcm−3, while that of the wall of the spheres was 3.10g cm−3. The scanning electron microscopic examination of the broken spheres showed that the inner surface of the spheres contained rib-like structures, which provided strength to the hollow spheres. The planar coupling factor,k p, of six hollow spheres, placed at a close-packed arrangement in a plane, was 0.22, indicating the possibility of fabrication of low-density transducer arrays.
Studies on the mechanisms of autophagy formation of the autophagic vacuole

Autophagic vacuoles form within 15 min of perfusing a liver with amino acid-depleted medium. These vacuoles are bound by a "smooth" double membrane and do not contain acid phosphatase activity. In an attempt to identify the membrane source of these vacuoles, I have used morphological techniques combined with immunological probes to localize specific membrane antigens to the limiting membranes of newly formed or nascent autophagic vacuoles. Antibodies to three integral membrane proteins of the plasma membrane (CE9, HA4, and epidermal growth factor receptor) and one of the Golgi apparatus (sialyltransferase) did not label these vacuoles. Internalized epidermal growth factor and its membrane receptor were not found in nascent autophagic vacuoles but were present in lysosome-like degradative autophagic vacuoles. All these results suggested that autophagic vacuoles were not formed from plasma membrane, Golgi apparatus, or endosome constituents. Antisera prepared against integral membrane proteins (14, 25, and 40 kD) of the RER was found to label the inner and outer limiting membranes of almost all nascent autophagic vacuoles. In addition, ribophorin II was identified at the limiting membranes of many nascent autophagic vacuoles. Finally, secretory proteins, rat serum albumin and alpha 2u-globulin, were localized to the lumen of the RER and to the intramembrane space between the inner and outer membranes of some of these vacuoles. The results were consistent with the formation of autophagic vacuoles from ribosome-free regions of the RER.
Aberrant cytokeratin expression during arsenic-induced acquired malignant phenotype in human HaCaT keratinocytes consistent with epidermal carcinogenesis

Inorganic arsenic is a known human skin carcinogen. Chronic arsenic exposure results in various human skin lesions, including hyperkeratosis and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), both characterized by distorted cytokeratin (CK) production. Prior work shows the human skin keratinocyte HaCaT cell line, when exposed chronically for >25 weeks to a low level of inorganic arsenite (100nM) results in cells able to produce aggressive SCC upon inoculation into nude mice. In the present study, CK expression analysis was performed in arsenic-exposed HaCaT cells during the progressive acquisition of this malignant phenotype (0-20 weeks) to further validate this model as relevant to epidermal carcinogenesis induced by arsenic in humans. Indeed, we observed clear evidence of acquired cancer phenotype by 20 weeks of arsenite exposure including the formation of giant cells, a >4-fold increase in colony formation in soft agar and a approximately 2.5-fold increase in matrix metalloproteinase-9 secretion, an enzyme often secreted by cancer cells to help invade through the local extra-cellular matrix. During this acquired malignant phenotype, various CK genes showed markedly altered expression at the transcript and protein levels in a time-dependent manner. For example, CK1, a marker of hyperkeratosis, increased up to 34-fold during arsenic-induced transformation, while CK13, a marker for dermal cancer progression, increased up to 45-fold. The stem cell marker, CK15, increased up to 7-fold, particularly during the later stages of arsenic exposure, indicating a potential emergence of cancer stem-like cells with arsenic-induced acquired malignant phenotype. The expression of involucrin and loricrin, markers for keratinocyte differentiation, increased up to 9-fold. Thus, during arsenic-induced acquired cancer phenotype in human keratinocytes, dramatic and dynamic alterations in CK expression occur which are consistent with the process of epidermal carcinogenesis helping validate this as an appropriate model for the study of arsenic-induced skin cancer.
Note on the 4-body system

A model is considered in which the 4-body problem of the He/sup 4/ nucleus is replaced by a one-body problem in which one nucleon moves in a potential that represents all the other energies and the interactions of the particle with the other three particles. It is found that a T= O excited state in He/sup 4/ can be accommodated by reasonable variables while a T = 1 state cannot. The NBS IBM-7094 was used to find a set of parameters that would reproduce the binding energy and rms radius. (R.E.U.)
Group 6 metal carbonyl complexes of a family of bulky phosphines: spectroscopic and structural studies of chromium(0)-, molybdenum(0)- and tungsten(0)-pentacarbonylsilylphosphines

The synthesis and spectroscopic data of six Group 6 metal complexes with the silylphosphine ligands, P(C6H5){Si(CH3)3}2 and P(H){Si(CH3)3}2 are reported. The crystal structures of M(P{R}{TMS}2)(CO)5, M = Cr, Mo, W; R = C6H5 and M = Cr; R = H, are reported. All the compounds exhibit the expected structures consisting of an octahedral geometry of five carbonyl ligands and one silylphosphine ligand around the metal center. Analysis of the spectroscopic and structural data, including the previously reported P{Si(CH3)3}3 ligand, indicate the steric bulk of the ligands decreases and the sigma-donating ability increases in the series P{Si(CH3)3}3 < P(C6H5){Si(CH3)3}2 < P(H){Si(CH3)3}2.
Common line motion I: implications of entropy inequality

Abstract This paper is the first in a series of papers in which we will examine both theoretically and experimentally the motion of the common line (three-phase line of contact) formed by a deforming viscoelastic fluid and air on a solid surface and its role in polymer extrusion. We begin by examining the restrictions placed on this motion by the entropy inequality.
Physicians' Perceptions of Patients in a County Sponsored Health Plan

ABSTRACT In this country, those who have low-incomes and are without health insurance may feel discriminated against and stigmatized by healthcare providers. In our evaluation of a health plan for uninsured residents of a county in a Midwestern state, we found a relationship between negative stereotypes among some physicians (voiced by physicians themselves and observed by the evaluators and program administrative staff) and clients' perception of discrimination by physicians because of these negative stereotypes. This perceived stigma may negatively impact on patient care. The clinicians' negative view of these patients can also be transmitted to physicians' office staff that then, overtly or covertly, encourage different treatment of patients. We hope to increase provider awareness of the impact of their attitudes on patients and subsequently improve patient outcomes.
Clinical phenotypes of a juvenile sibling pair carrying the fragile X premutation.

Individuals with alleles containing 55–200 CGG repeats in the fragile X mental retardation (FMR1) gene are premutation carriers. The premutation allele has been shown to lead to a number of types of clinical involvement, including shyness, anxiety, social deficits, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and executive function deficits. Some of these problems could be due to mild deficits of the fragile X protein (FMRP) and a possible developmental effect of the elevated FMR1 mRNA observed in carriers. In addition, two abnormal phenotypes specific to the premutation have been described. Primary ovarian insufficiency (FXPOI), defined by cessation of menses prior to age 40, occurs in 20% of females with the premutation. The other phenotype, fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS), affects some older adult premutation carriers. Premutation females typically have one expanded allele (≥55 CGG repeats) and one normal allele (≤54 CGG repeats). This study describes the cognitive, behavioral, and molecular profile of a female with two alleles in the premutation range (60 and 67 CGG repeats) in comparison to her brother with a similar premutation size (65 CGG repeats). Both exhibited high IQ scores, anxiety, and some physical features associated with fragile X syndrome. This comparison allows us to examine the effect of the premutation in this male–female pair while controlling for environmental and background genetic factors. © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Nuclear propulsion choices for space exploration

The potential for nuclear propulsion as a substitute for chemical propulsion for near term space exploration is examined. Chemical rockets face limitations on the generated thrust per unit mass of fuel. Increasing the specific impulse Is by using nuclear propulsion significantly reduces the percentage of total mass that must be allocated for the propellant, thereby increasing the payload. For long distance missions, Is becomes increasingly important, as the propellant mass approaches 100 percent of the total mass.
Synthesis of indoleacetic acid from tryptophan via indolepyruvic acid in cell-free extracts of pea seedlings☆

Abstract Indoleacetic acid appeared to be synthesized from tryptophan- 14 C in cell-free extracts of shoot tips of green pea ( Pisum satiuum L.) seedlings by the following pathway: Tryptophan → indolepyruvic acid → indoleacetaldehyde → indoleacetic acid. Enzymic conversion of tryptophan- 14 C to indoleacetic acid was enhanced by the addition of pyridoxal phosphate, α-ketoglutaric acid and thiamine pyrophosphate to reaction mixtures. These results support the hypothesis that the initial reactions in the pathway of tryptophan → IAA conversion are a transamination and a decarboxylation, respectively. Variable results were obtained with NAD, so that the nature of the postulated enzymic oxidation of indoleacetaldehyde remains unknown. The postulated intermediates were isolated from cell-free reaction mixtures by thin-layer and ion-exchange chromatography. Indolepyruvic acid- 14 C was isolated as the 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazone. Indoleacetaldehyde- 14 C was isolated, after reduction with sodium borohydride, as tryptophol- 14 C (indole-3-ethanol).
Contextually variable signals can be functionally referential

• We offer a new definition of functional reference that highlights the role of contextual cues.
Correction for distortion in a beam outline transfer device in radiotherapy CT-based simulation

In using a CT scanner as a radiation therapy simulator, it would be helpful to be able to transfer the beam outline from the computer plan to the patient's skin. A beam outline transfer device has been constructed and installed on a Siemens' DRH CT scanner gantry. The planned treatment beam geometry from a 3-D computerized simulation and planning system can be projected onto the patient's skin surface accurately and efficiently. The positioning accuracy achieved is within +/- 0.1 cm over a 20 cm x 20 cm field. Integrating the device into the CT scanner, simplifies the device and reduces the cost over an externally mounted device. Two unsuccessful methods to correct the projection distortions are also mentioned. In order to achieve the reported beam outline transfer accuracy, a system based on our empirically derived calibration procedure is described.
Effect of Timing of Chronic Preoperative Aspirin Discontinuation on Morbidity and Mortality in Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery

Background—Aspirin (ASA) has been shown to reduce postoperative coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) mortality and ischemic events; however, the timing of chronic ASA discontinuation before surgery is controversial because of concern about postoperative bleeding. We evaluated the effect of the timing of ASA discontinuation before CABG on major adverse cardiovascular outcomes and postoperative bleeding using the Cleveland Clinic Cardiovascular Information Registry database. Methods and Results—At the Cleveland Clinic between January 1, 2002, and January 31, 2008, 4143 patients undergoing CABG were taking preoperative chronic ASA. Of these, 2298 discontinued ASA 6 or more days before surgery (early discontinuation), and 1845 took ASA within 5 days of the surgery (late use). Because of substantial differences between these 2 groups, propensity score analysis, and matching based on 31 variables were used for fair comparison of outcomes. This resulted in 1519 well-matched pairs of patients (73%). There was n...
Lipoxygenase-Mediated Demethylation of Pesticides☆

Abstract Several studies have described metabolism of pesticidal chemicals in plants and animals by the NADPH-dependent cytochrome P-450 monooxygenases while relatively little is known regarding the role played by the peroxidative oxidation pathway. Here we describe, for the first time, hydrogen peroxide-supported N-demethylation of aminocarb by the highly purified preparations of soybean lipoxygenase. Formaldehyde generated in the reaction was estimated by the Nash reaction. N-demethylation of aminocarb was found to depend on the incubation time, concentration of the enzyme, aminocarb, and hydrogen peroxide. Under optimal conditions,Vmaxvalues of 18 nmol of formaldehyde/min/nmol of lipoxygenase or 170 nmol of formaldehyde/min/mg protein were observed. The reaction exhibitedKmvalues of 3.4 mM for aminocarb and 235 μM for hydrogen peroxide. A strong inhibition of the reaction by nordihydroguaiaretic acid, gossypol, and phenidone clearly implicates the lipoxygenase involvement as the protein catalyst. A significant decline in the formaldehyde accumulation in the presence of either reduced glutathione or dithiothreitol suggests generation of a free radical species as an initial oxidation intermediate during the demethylation of aminocarb by the lipoxygenase. The inhibition of formaldehyde generation by BHT and BHA further supports this contention. In addition to aminocarb, seven other pesticides were also found to undergo N-demethylation, albeit at relatively low rates. Collectively, the evidence presented suggests, for the first time, that certain pesticides may oxidatively undergo dealkylation via the lipoxygenase pathway in plants.
The low-frequency interplanetary radiation

Observations of the low-frequency interplanetary radiation have continued, although no major activity has begun since mid-1991. Theoretical work has been completed which suggests that the long-speculated source at the termination shock is feasible and could at least qualitatively account for several aspects of the observations, although some difficulties exist. The Ulysses encounter with Jupiter occurred in February 1992 and has renewed discussion of a Jovian source for the emissions. We reconsider the arguments used previously to rule out Jupiter as a source and conclude that the existence of a relatively high-density boundary to the heliosphere renders most of these arguments ineffective in eliminating Jupiter as a source. We conclude, therefore, that Jupiter must be considered as likely a candidate source as the termination shock for the low-frequency emissions and, given that Jupiter is a known source of emissions in the few-kHz range, perhaps Jupiter is the more likely candidate. Even with a Jovian source, however, the low-frequency emissions continue to be useful sounders of the heliosphere which can provide information on the size of the heliospheric cavity. No conclusive evidence is available which identifies either Jupiter or the termination shock as the source.
Is there a place for role theory in occupational science

Abstract This article, the second in a two‐part series, builds upon Contemporary Criticisms of Role Theory. The usefulness of role theory for occupational science is questioned through examining the compatibility between role theory and the underlying assumptions of occupational science. It is suggested that whereas role was an organizing structure in occupational behavior, upon which occupational scientists at University of Southern California drew their initial concepts, occupation has become the focus of concern in occupational science. DeVault's study, Feeding the Family, is used to explicate the depth of information one can gather when using an occupation‐centered analysis. Such insights include the diverse ways people enact and infuse meaning into their occupations; how race, class, age, ethnicity, and sexual orientation contribute to the form, process, context, and meaning of occupation; the influences of local and global environments depicted in policies and ideologies about occupations; and the n...
Percutaneous Pedicle Screw Fixation for Thoracolumbar Fractures

The application of percutaneous techniques for the management of thoracolumbar fractures is gaining popularity. Short-segment or long-segment percutaneous pedicle screw fixation can be used to treat a wide variety of thoracolumbar fractures in patients who are neurologically normal. This approach provides internal fixation, allowing the fracture to heal and sparing the motion segments above and below the fracture, as the instrumentation can be removed later.
Performance of dual maximal ratio combining diversity in nonidentical correlated Weibull fading channels using Pade/spl acute/ approximation

In this letter, we evaluate the performance of the dual-branch maximal ratio combining (MRC) diversity scheme in nonidentical correlated Weibull fading channels with arbitrary parameters. We first use the Pade/spl acute/ approximation (PA) to find closed-form rational expressions for the moment generating function (MGF) of the output signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the MRC receiver. Different performance measures, such as the outage probability and the average symbol-error rate for different linear modulations, are then presented using the well-known MGF approach. Furthermore, the effect of the input SNRs unbalancing, the severity of fading, and the degree of correlation on the system performance are also studied. Our results are validated by comparing them with computer simulations, and we show that the PA technique is indeed a convenient tool for such performance evaluation studies.
Parental Perceptions of Inclusive Educational Placements

This article reviews the literature with respect to the perceptions and experiences of parents of children with and without disabilities concerning inclusive educational programs. The findings of the studies cited indicate that the attitudes and reactions of parents of children with and without disabilities toward inclusive educational programs appear to be varied, complex, and multidimensional, and affected by a variety of interacting variables. The implications of the findings for the development and implementation of inclusive educational programs as well as the limitations of the studies cited are discussed.
Differential and synergistic actions of nerve growth factor and cyclic AMP in PC12 cells.

When a clonal line of rat pheochromocytoma (PC12) was exposed to beta-nerve growth factor (beta NGF), N6, O2-dibutyryl adenosine 3':5' cyclic monophosphate (Bt2cAMP), or a combination of the two, 10, 26, or 70% of the cell clumps, respectively, displayed neurites after 1.d. Increases in the cellular RNA concentration were also found to be additive or greater when both agents were present. Neurites induced by Bt2cAMP alone were not maintained after replacement with beta NGF. The degree of potentiated neurite outgrowth was a function of the time of simultaneous exposure to both agents. The initiation of neurite outgrowth in the presence of Bt2cAMP was independent of RNA synthesis, in contrast to that induced by beta NGF alone. We conclude that beta NGF-induced initiation of morphological differentiation of these cells is not mediated by a cAMP-dependent mechanism. Consideration of Bt2cAMP effects upon other cell lines suggest that Bt2cAMP causes a rapid, but unstable, reorganization of the PC12 cytoskeleton, resulting in the initiation of neurite outgrowth from these cells. In contrast, beta NGF alone achieves a more stable cytoskeleton reorganization by an RNA synthesis-dependent mechanism.
Immune checkpoint inhibitors in clinical practice: update on management of immune-related toxicities

Immune checkpoint blockade using inhibitors of cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4) and programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) has shown clinically significant antitumor response and has been approved for the treatment of malignant melanoma and squamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). These immunotherapies are associated with unique set of toxicities termed immune-related adverse events (irAEs) that are very different from toxicities observed with conventional cytotoxic chemotherapy. Prompt recognition and initiation of appropriate management, usually in the form of immunosuppression, usually results in complete reversibility, but failing to do so can lead to severe toxicity or even death. Clinical algorithms describing the management of common irAEs have been published based on clinical trial information and experience in metastatic melanoma with ipilimumab, a human IgG1 monoclonal antibody that binds to CTLA-4 and blocks T cell inhibition. The most common irAEs reported with ipilimumab are dermatologic toxicity, diarrhea/colitis, hepatotoxicity, and endocrinopathies, although other sites can also be affected. Similar irAEs have been observed with agents targeting PD-1. Nivolumab and pembrolizumab are humanized monoclonal antibodies that bind to PD-1 and prevent T cell inactivation. Ipilimumab, pembrolizumab, and nivolumab are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of advanced melanoma; nivolumab was also recently approved for metastatic squamous NSCLC. This review describes the optimal management of toxicities related to immune checkpoint inhibition from FDA-approved agents targeting CTLA-4 and PD-1.
Phospholipase C-γ1 Binds to Actin-Cytoskeleton via Its C-terminal SH2 Domainin Vitro

Association of phospholipase C (PLC)-gamma 1 with the cytoskeleton has been postulated to be one of the crucial steps for PLC-gamma 1 activation and translocation to the plasma membrane. In this report, direct binding assays were carried out to study which fragment of PLC-gamma 1 Src homology region has been able to bind to the actin-cytoskeleton. Using GST fusion proteins containing various deletions of the PLC-gamma 1 Src homology region, it was found that PLC-gamma 1 binds to the actin-cytoskeleton directly via its C-terminal SH2 domain but not the SH3 domain in vitro. However, the binding of the C-terminal SH2 domain of PLC-gamma 1 to actin did not interfere with the SH2 domain's ability to associate with phosphotyrosine, which suggested that actin and phosphotyrosine residues may bind to different sequences in the C-terminal SH2 domain of PLC-gamma 1.
Chloramphenicol: an Enzymological Microassay

A new assay for chloramphenicol in biological fluids has been developed that offers sensitivity, specificity, precision, accuracy, economy, and ease of performance. The assay is based on the enzymological acetylation of chloramphenicol catalyzed by an R factor-mediated enzyme. [ 14 C]acetyl coenzyme A serves as the donor of the labeled acetyl group, and the product, [ 14 C]acetoxychloramphenicol, is separated from the labeled precursor by utilizing its preferential extraction into benzene. The product is then quantified by liquid scintillation counting. This assay measures chloramphenicol concentrations in both plasma and other biological specimens and in the presence of other antibiotics, hemolysis, or jaundice. Its rapidity and ease of performance are useful for clinical laboratories, and its sensitivity allows determinations on 10 μl of plasma.
Successful Takeovers without Exclusion

While most takeover models assume atomistic stockholders, we analyze a single-raider model with finitely many stockholders. Because the raider can always make some stockholders pivotal, he can overcome thefree-rider problem identified by Grossman and Hart (1980) and others in atomistic-stockholder models and profitably take over even without exclusion. One might expect that it would be harder for the raider to make stockholders of more widely held firms pivotal and that exclusion would thus become necessary; however, the infinite-stockholder game cannot yield this conclusion. We also consider the limit of the finite-stockholder game and give conditions under which exclusion is unnecessary. Finally, we show that exclusion leads to the possibility of inefficient takeovers.
Studies on the Immune Status of Children with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (All)

The present treatment of ALL is intensive and immunodepressive, and involves the important risk of overwhelming infection during induction of remission, and during maintenance. In fact most remission deaths are due to infectious complications (12).
Estimation of Nucleotide Diversity, Disequilibrium Coefficients, and Mutation Rates from High-Coverage Genome-Sequencing Projects

Recent advances in sequencing strategies have made it feasible to rapidly obtain high-coverage genomic profiles of single individuals, and soon it will be economically feasible to do so with hundreds to thousands of individuals per population. While offering unprecedented power for the acquisition of population-genetic parameters, these new methods also introduce a number of challenges, most notably the need to account for the binomial sampling of parental alleles at individual nucleotide sites and to eliminate bias from various sources of sequence errors. To minimize the effects of both problems, methods are developed for generating nearly unbiased and minimum-sampling-variance estimates of a number of key parameters, including the average nucleotide heterozygosity and its variance among sites, the pattern of decomposition of linkage disequilibrium with physical distance, and the rate and molecular spectrum of spontaneously arising mutations. These methods provide a general platform for the efficient utilization of data from population-genomic surveys, while also providing guidance for the optimal design of such studies.
Avirulent, urease-deficient Helicobacter pylori colonizes gastric epithelial explants ex vivo.

Background: Urease-negative Helicobacter pylori generated by insertional mutagenesis fails to colonize gnotobiotic piglets, and this effect is largely independent of gastric pH. The purpose of this study was to determine whether urease-negative H. pylori colonizes gastric explants ex vivo. Methods: Gastric mucosal explants derived from neonatal germ-free piglets were inoculated with either wild-type H. pylori or one of two mutants derived by insertional mutagenesis. Results: All three bacterial strains colonized explants. The level of colonization increased over the duration of the experiment, reaching 108-109 cfu/g gastric mucosa by 72 h after inoculation. Morphologic evidence of colonization was similar to that observed in gnotobiotic piglets. Conclusions: Colonization of explants was not affected by lack of urease. These results contrast with previous findings showing that urease activity is essential for colonization of piglets by H. pylori. Thus, urease-dependent colonization is dependent on an intac...
Tariff Binding and Overhang: Theory and Evidence

We study optimal tariff binding agreements among asymmetric countries that are subject to idiosyncratic political-economy shocks. We find that the optimal tariff binding of a sector is decreasing in the importing countries international market power in that sector. Moreover, under an optimal agreement, a tariff binding overhang is on average greater in sectors with lower international market power. Using the WTO tariff bindings and the applied tariffs of the WTO member countries, we find strong empirical support for our predictions.
Three-dimensional reproducibility of natural head position

Introduction Although natural head position has proven to be reliable in the sagittal plane, with an increasing interest in 3-dimensional craniofacial analysis, a determination of its reproducibility in the coronal and axial planes is essential. This study was designed to evaluate the reproducibility of natural head position over time in the sagittal, coronal, and axial planes of space with 3-dimensional imaging. Methods Three-dimensional photographs were taken of 28 adult volunteers (ages, 18-40 years) in natural head position at 5 times: baseline, 4 hours, 8 hours, 24 hours, and 1 week. Using the true vertical and horizontal laser lines projected in an iCAT cone-beam computed tomography machine (Imaging Sciences International, Hatfield, Pa) for orientation, we recorded references for natural head position on the patient's face with semipermanent markers. By using a 3-dimensional camera system, photographs were taken at each time point to capture the orientation of the reference points. By superimposing each of the 5 photographs on stable anatomic surfaces, changes in the position of the markers were recorded and assessed for parallelism by using 3dMDvultus (3dMD, Atlanta, Ga) and software (Dolphin Imaging & Management Solutions, Chatsworth, Calif). Results No statistically significant differences were observed between the 5 time points in any of the 3 planes of space. However, a statistically significant difference was observed between the mean angular deviations of 3 reference planes, with a hierarchy of natural head position reproducibility established as coronal > axial > sagittal. Conclusions Within the parameters of this study, natural head position was found to be reproducible in the sagittal, coronal, and axial planes of space. The coronal plane had the least variation over time, followed by the axial and sagittal planes.
Complex-field coding for OFDM over fading wireless channels

Orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) converts a time-dispersive channel into parallel subchannels, and thus facilitates equalization and (de)coding. But when the channel has nulls close to or on the fast Fourier transform (FFT) grid, uncoded OFDM faces serious symbol recovery problems. As an alternative to various error-control coding techniques that have been proposed to ameliorate the problem, we perform complex-field coding (CFC) before the symbols are multiplexed. We quantify the maximum achievable diversity order for independent and identically distributed (i.i.d.) or correlated Rayleigh-fading channels, and also provide design rules for achieving the maximum diversity order. The maximum coding gain is given, and the encoder enabling the maximum coding gain is also found. Simulated performance comparisons of CFC-OFDM with existing block and convolutionally coded OFDM alternatives favor CFC-OFDM for the code rates used in a HiperLAN2 experiment.
A comparative study of lattice Boltzmann and front-tracking finite-difference methods for bubble simulations

Abstract This communication describes the results of bubble rise simulations using a lattice Boltzmann method and a front-tracking finite-difference method. The simulations, performed in a 2-D periodic box, consider two specific examples: a steadily rising bubble and a bubble rising in an oscillatory manner with accompanying shape change. We compare the shapes and rise velocities of the steadily rising and oscillating bubbles, the oscillation frequencies and amplitudes, and the bubble shapes at different phases of the oscillations. The simulations reveal that both numerical schemes afford qualitatively similar results, which are within a few percent quantitatively.
Selective Phthalate Activation of Naturally Occurring Human Constitutive Androstane Receptor Splice Variants and the Pregnane X Receptor

Phthalates and other endocrine-disruptive chemicals are manufactured in large quantities for use as plasticizers and other commercial applications, resulting in ubiquitous human exposure and thus, concern regarding their toxicity. Innate defense against small molecule exposures is controlled in large part by the constitutive androstane receptor (CAR) and the pregnane X receptor (PXR). The human CAR gene undergoes multiple alternative splicing events resulting in the CAR2 and CAR3 variant receptors. Recent studies from our laboratory show that CAR2 is potently and specifically activated by di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP). We hypothesized that alternative splicing is a mechanism for increasing CAR’s functional diversity, broadening the human receptors’ repertoire of response to environmental xenobiotics. In these studies, we examine the interaction of alternatively spliced CARs and PXR with a range of suspected endocrine disruptors, including phthalates, bisphenol A (BPA), and 4-N-nonylphenol (NP). Transactivation and two-hybrid studies in COS-1 cells revealed differential selectivity of endocrine-disrupting chemicals for the variant CAR and PXR. Ex vivo studies showed DEHP and di-isononyl phthalate potently induced CYP2B6 and CYP3A4 expression in human hepatocytes. Mutation analysis of CAR2, in silico modeling, and ligand docking studies suggested that the SPTV amino acid insertion of CAR2 creates a unique ligand-binding pocket. Alternative gene splicing results in variant CAR receptors that selectively recognize phthalates and BPA. The interaction of phthalates with CAR and PXR suggests a xenobiotic response that is complex and biologically redundant.
Pre-existing soft modes of motion uniquely defined by native contact topology facilitate ligand binding to proteins.

Modeling protein flexibility constitutes a major challenge in accurate prediction of protein–ligand and protein–protein interactions in docking simulations. The lack of a reliable method for predicting the conformational changes relevant to substrate binding prevents the productive application of computational docking to proteins that undergo large structural rearrangements. Here, we examine how coarse-grained normal mode analysis has been advantageously applied to modeling protein flexibility associated with ligand binding. First, we highlight recent studies that have shown that there is a close agreement between the large-scale collective motions of proteins predicted by elastic network models and the structural changes experimentally observed upon ligand binding. Then, we discuss studies that have exploited the predicted soft modes in docking simulations. Two general strategies are noted: pregeneration of conformational ensembles that are then utilized as input for standard fixed-backbone docking and protein structure deformation along normal modes concurrent to docking. These studies show that the structural changes apparently “induced” upon ligand binding occur selectively along the soft modes accessible to the protein prior to ligand binding. They further suggest that proteins offer suitable means of accommodating/facilitating the recognition and binding of their ligand, presumably acquired by evolutionary selection of the suitable three-dimensional structure.
Influence of neem seed extract on oviposition and mortality of Conotrachelus nenuphar (Col., Curculionidae) and Rhagoletis pomonella (Dip., Tephritidae) adults

In the laboratory and in a commercial apple orchard, the neem seed extract Margosan-O was evaluated at a manufacturer-recommended rate of 11 per 100 1 water for potential oviposition-deterring and mortality effects against adults of 2 key orchard pests in eastern North America: plum curculio, Conotrachelus nenuphar (Herbst), and apple maggot, Rhagoletis pomonella (Walsh). We found no evidence for either type of effect against either species.
Biodegradation and mildew resistance of naturally colored cottons

Naturally colored cottons contain significantly higher amounts of wax and have a different wax constitution and connectivity with cellulose than conventional cotton. Researchers have proposed that this wax content, together with the natural pigmentation, may serve as a defense against soil-borne pathogens. The purpose of this research is to study the biodegradation and mildew resistance characteristics of naturally colored cotton compared to conventional white and dyed cotton under field soil burial and laboratory mildew culture conditions. Laboratory culture results show that naturally brown and green colored cotton fabrics resist the growth of Aspergillius niger. However, after soil burial, both naturally brown and green cotton specimens showed severe degradation, manifested by significant loss of fabric strength as well as fiber structural damage. This suggests that naturally colored cottons are biodegradable. However, the rate of biodegradation of naturally colored cottons, especially green cotton, is...
A Comparison of Two Middle-Aged Ultramarathon Runners

Abstract The purpose of this investigation was to compare the physiological responses of two middle-aged ultramarathon runners during maximal and submaximal running. Each man performed a series of 7-min. treadmill runs to determine heart rate and oxygen requirements at selected speeds. These data were utilized to estimate the average oxygen consumption and percent maximal oxygen consumption (% Max. [Vdot]O2) required during races of from 42.2 km (26.2 miles) to 84.5 km (52.2 miles). Subject Corbitt's aerobic capacity (Max. [Vdot]O2) was 2.2% greater than that of his competitor, McDonagh. However, McDonagh was found to utilize less of his aerobic capacity at all running speeds above 200 m/min. McDonagh's competitive superiority appeared to be a product of greater running efficiency. It was estimated that both men utilized 80–85% Max. [Vdot]O2 for 2.5 to 5.5 hrs. of competitive running.
Genomics of Tuber melanosporum: New Knowledge Concerning Reproductive Biology, Symbiosis, and Aroma Production

Tuber melanosporum Vittad. is the symbiotic ascomycete that produces the Perigord truffle, one of the most expensive foods worldwide. Although basic research on symbiotic ascomycetes lags behind that on symbiotic basidiomycetes, some progress has been made in the last few years on key questions concerning the biology and ecology of Tuber spp. In particular, the recent release of the T. melanosporum genome was a breakthrough that helped improve our understanding of the reproductive biology of this species. It also provided insight into the gene repertoires underlying the symbiotic relationship with host plants and the production of the distinctive truffle aroma. Genome mining has provided mycologists with a plethora of microsatellite markers that may be highly informative for population genetics studies. These recent advances in T. melanosporum research are discussed here in the context of fundamental research questions and the cultivation and marketing of truffle species.
Current Status of Minimally Invasive Surgery for Rectal Cancer

Recent randomized controlled data have shown possible limitations to laparoscopic treatment of rectal cancer. The retrospective data, used as the basis for designing the trials, and which showed no problems with the technique, are discussed. The design of the randomized trials is discussed relative to the future meta-analysis of the recent data. The implications of the current findings on practice are discussed as surgeons try to adjust their practice to the new findings. The possible next steps for clinical and research innovations are put into perspective as new technology is considered to compensate for newly identified limitations in the laparoscopic treatment of rectal cancer.
Mancur Olson, collective action and the design of a federal state: The case of Ukraine

Even if we ignore the consequences of Russia’s intervention into Ukraine’s internal affairs, Ukraine confronts some seemingly insurmountable problems in transitioning to a stable and prosperous state. Having inherited a top down and largely corrupt political structure, there are those who see decentralization in some form as a partial solution. Here, though, we argue that decentralization, even if crafted on the European Union template of subsidiarity, can introduce problems of collective action that would further undermine the country’s viability. To avoid exacerbating the problems of collective action occasioned by Ukraine’s fractured political economic system, decentralization must proceed with an understanding of how those problems are treated in successful federal states
International standardization

A brief historical review of two of the existing international standards-making bodies of chief concern to the electrical industry.
YEASTS IN POLLUTED WATER AND SEWAGE

The presence of cells or colonies of yeasts in polluted water, sewage, and sewage-treatment processes may have been anticipated by some workers dealing with the biology of such habitats, but little has been said about them in the literature. Cake yeast has been used in the starting of septic tanks, activated-sludge systems, and sludge digesters, but whether brewer's or baker's yeast was more effective or effective at all is unknown. Heukelekian (1942) set up a series of experiments with cake yeast, using a brand of baker's yeast supplied by Anheuser Busch Co., adding it to sewage in open and closed vessels, and to a ripe sludge mixture. He concluded that "(1) yeast does not hasten the stabilization of sewage under anaerobic conditions," and "(2) yeast does not hasten the digestion of seeded sludge mixtures." In 1953 Heukelekian again reported on an experiment in which baker's yeast was used to determine the effect of this type of biological preparation on the digestion of sewage solids. He concluded that "the addition of . . yeast does not increase the liquefaction of non-sterile fresh solids as measured by the B.O.D. of the supernatant liquor," although during the experiment some gas was formed and solids were reduced to some extent. That no recovery was made of either baker's or brewer's yeast from samples tested for fungi, in the series of isolations on which this report is based, may result from an error in sampling technique, from incomplete sampling due to use of incorrect enrichment medium, or from a habitat not conducive to the survival of these species of Saccharomyces. In screening various polluted habitats for their potential fungus popu
Defining the nature and implications of head turn preference in the preterm infant

Abstract Aim To determine the relationship of head turn preference in the preterm infant to: 1) perinatal medical factors, 2) neonatal neurobehavior, and/or 3) infant neurodevelopmental outcomes. Methods Seventy preterm infants born ≤30weeks gestation were enrolled at birth. Detailed information regarding neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) medical course was compiled for each infant. Neurobehavioral testing was performed during NICU hospitalization. Head turn preference was quantified at term equivalent age using a newly developed scale. Infants returned at age two years for standardized developmental testing. Results All infants demonstrated a head turning preference, with most preferring the right side (n=51, 77%). Fifty-five infants (79%) had moderate to severe head turn preference. Head turn preference was associated with 1) medical severity (hours of inotrope use, p =0.02; oxygen requirement at 36weeks postmenstrual age, p =0.03), 2) worse neurobehavioral performance (decreased self-regulation, p =0.007; more sub-optimal reflexes p =0.006), and 3) worse developmental outcome at age two years (poorer fine motor, p =0.02). Interpretation Medical factors in the NICU appear to be associated with the development of a head turn preference. Increased severity of head turn preference may be a marker for poor developmental outcome. Early identification may inform therapeutic interventions designed to minimize symptoms and optimize neurodevelopmental outcome.
The development of Balb/c cells persistently infected with respiratory syncytial virus: presence of ribonucleoprotein on the cell surface.

AbstractBalb/c mouse cells were persistently infected with RS virus. Continued passage of the virus produced in these Balb/c cells resulted in a 10-fold increase in the amount of infectious virus produced. Approximately 80% of the BCH4 cells expressed RNP and “spike” antigen intracellularly and associated with the cell surface.
Rapidly Sedimenting Properties of Specifically Precipitating Component of a Hashimoto's Disease Serum

SummarySerum was obtained from a patient with Hashimoto's disease at thyroidectomy and six months post-operatively. The first serum was found to form a precipitate on the addition of thyroid extract as has been described by others. On ultracentrifugation, it was found that the precipitating components were in the heavy globulin fraction (s = 20 S) rather than in the light globulin fraction (s = 7 S). Double diffusion experiments by the Ouchterlony method also indicated that the antibody was of high molecular weight. The antibody seemed to have disappeared from the serum within six months after surgery.