cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Numerical method for gas dynamics combining characteristic and conservation concepts

An efficient implicit numerical method that solves the compressible Navier-Stokes equations in arbitrary curvilinear coordinates by the finite-volume technique is presented. An intrinsically dissipative difference scheme and a fully implicit treatment of boundary conditions, based on characteristic and conservation concepts, are used to improve stability and accuracy. Efficiency is achieved by using a diagonal form of the implicit algorithm and spatially varying time-steps. Comparisons of various schemes and methods are presented for one- and two-dimensional flows, including transonic separated flow past a thick circular-arc airfoil in a channel. The new method is equal to or better than a version of MacCormack's hybrid method in accuracy and it converges to a steady state up to an order of magnitude faster.
A Histological and Bionietrical Study of Wing Development in the Grasshopper Melanoplus lakinus

Melanoplus lakinus Scudder (Orthoptera: Acrididae) is a brachypterous grasshopper of Arizona rangeland that occasionally shows macropterism. Wing development is similar histologically to that in holometabolans, although the epidermal cells are less attenuated in this species. The cells extend to the middle membrane and generally are not continuous with opposing cells. They become distorted after the procuticle is secreted. Nuclei elongate and migrate toward the middle membrane to varying degrees. The middle membrane may be as much as 3 µ thick. Granular molting fluid occurs in large quantity and is prevalent during the last half of each instar. Chromatolysis may occur in the last stage of growth in the hindwing. On the surface of the wing pads polygonal cuticular plaques change to “shingled” rows in the last 2 instars. Two characteristics of mitotic activity in wing pads are revealed: (1) mitoses occur in distinct bursts and at fluctuating low levels, and (2) the process begins while the epidermis is still attached to the endocuticle and continues after deposition of the procuticle. A mitotic burst could be followed from its initiation to its termination, over a 6-hr period, by successive sampling of the 4 wings of 1 specimen. Mitotic activity corresponds well with the increase in nuclei during each instar. There are no obvious structural differences between nymphs of brachypterous and macropterous adults. The regression coefficient of wing length on hind femur length increases significantly during most instars. The large increase in wing length of the macropterous form occurs in the last instar and deviates greatly from simple allometric growth. Thus far, mating of macropterous forms in cages has increased their frequency from less than 4% to 39% in the F1 generation.
The flux of iron from continental shelf sediments: A missing source for global budgets

[1] The flux of dissolved iron from sediments to the water column was measured with flux chambers along the California coast over a five-year period. High fluxes were observed from sediments on the continental shelf. The measured fluxes were an average of 75 times larger than flux values derived from pore-water iron gradients. The iron flux was significantly correlated with the oxidation of organic matter, which allows an extrapolation to the global shelf. The input from shelf sediments is at least as significant as the global input of dissolved iron from aerosols, which has been presumed to be the dominant external iron source. Evidence of this input is seen 100's of kilometers offshore where it can enable the high productivity of broad coastal regions seen in satellite images.
Nonadaptive Processes in Primate and Human Evolution

Evolutionary biology has tended to focus on adaptive evolution by positive selection as the primum mobile of evolutionary trajectories in species while underestimating the importance of nonadaptive evolutionary processes. In this review, I describe evidence that suggests that primate and human evolution has been strongly influenced by nonadaptive processes, particularly random genetic drift and mutation. This is evidenced by three fundamental effects: a relative relaxation of selective constraints (i.e., purifying selection), a relative increase in the fixation of slightly deleterious mutations, and a general reduction in the efficacy of positive selection. These effects are observed in protein-coding, regulatory regions, and in gene expression data, as well as in an augmentation of fixation of large-scale mutations, including duplicated genes, mobile genetic elements, and nuclear mitochondrial DNA. The evidence suggests a general population-level explanation such as a reduction in effective population size (N(e)). This would have tipped the balance between the evolutionary forces of natural selection and random genetic drift toward genetic drift for variants having small selective effects. After describing these proximate effects, I describe the potential consequences of these effects for primate and human evolution. For example, an increase in the fixation of slightly deleterious mutations could potentially have led to an increase in the fixation rate of compensatory mutations that act to suppress the effects of slightly deleterious substitutions. The potential consequences of compensatory evolution for the evolution of novel gene functions and in potentially confounding the detection of positively selected genes are explored. The consequences of the passive accumulation of large-scale genomic mutations by genetic drift are unclear, though evidence suggests that new gene copies as well as insertions of transposable elements into genes can potentially lead to adaptive phenotypes. Finally, because a decrease in selective constraint at the genetic level is expected to have effects at the morphological level, I review studies that compare rates of morphological change in various mammalian and island populations where N(e) is reduced. Furthermore, I discuss evidence that suggests that craniofacial morphology in the Homo lineage has shifted from an evolutionary rate constrained by purifying selection toward a neutral evolutionary rate.
The CloudBrowser web application framework

CloudBrowser is a web application framework that supports the development of rich Internet applications whose entire user interface and application logic resides on the server, while all client/server communication is provided by the framework. CloudBrowser thus hides the distributed nature of these applications from the developer, creating an environment similar to that provided by a desktop user interface library. CloudBrowser preserves the user interface state in a server-side virtual browser that is maintained across visits. Unlike other server-centric frameworks, CloudBrowser's exclusive use of the HTML document model and associated JavaScript execution environment allows it to exploit existing client-side user interface libraries and toolkits while transparently providing access to other application tiers. We have implemented a prototype of CloudBrowser as well as several example applications to demonstrate the benefits of its server-centric design.
Fokker action principles with self-action. I. General theory; outline of a program for constructing models of elementary particles

Abstract Fokker action principles with self-action are studied. A program is outlined that offers long-odds hope for the construction of classical models of some elementary particles. Part I gives an outline of the general theory, its possibilities and its difficulties. Part II, which will be published shortly, will give applications of the theory to circular motions of a single particle interacting with itself. A specific, but ugly, model that arose in a thusfar unsuccessful attempt at a theory of the electron will be discussed.
Observation of collisional narrowing in a two-photon transition in a three-level system

We report the observation of collision-induced narrowing in the two-photon $6S\ensuremath{-}12S$ transition in Cs perturbed by argon using resonance ionization spectroscopy. The narrowing occurs at 25-50-Torr Ar buffer gas pressure. It is explained via the competition between collision-induced single- and two-photon processes.
Up-regulation of macrophage migration inhibitory factor in infants with acute neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis.

Aims: To investigate the role of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) and its downstream cytokine cascade in necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Methods and results: The expression of MIF mRNA and protein in NEC guts was assayed by in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry, respectively. Concentrations of MIF, interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 in the serum and in the supernatant of macrophage cultures were examined by ELISA. Increased expression of MIF mRNA and protein was observed in the NEC guts, mainly in the infiltrating macrophages in the mucosa and submucosal layers. Up-regulation of MIF was associated with the accumulation of macrophages and T cells. In addition, serum levels of MIF, IL-6 and IL-8 in NEC patients during the acute stage of the disease were significantly increased. The expression of MIF decreased both locally and systemically after the disease was resolved. MIF was also found to increase the secretion of IL-6 and IL-8 by macrophages isolated from healthy individuals in vitro in NEC. Conclusions: MIF acts by stimulating macrophage production of IL-6 and IL-8. This further aggravates the inflammatory process by increasing the infiltration of neutrophils and activating inflammatory cells. The results of this study suggest that MIF plays an important role in the pathogenesis of NEC and may serve as a target for therapeutic intervention in NEC.
Harmful dinoflagellate blooms caused by Cochlodinium sp.: Global expansion and ecological strategies facilitating bloom formation

The past two decades have witnessed an expansion in the reported occurrences of harmful algal blooms (HABs) caused by the dinoflagellate Cochlodinium. Prior to 1990, blooms had been primarily reported in Southeast Asia, with South Korea alone reporting more than $100M USD in annual fisheries losses during the 1990s. Since then, time blooms have expanded across Asia, Europe, and North America, with recognition of multiple species and ribotypes that exhibit similar ecophysiological and harmful characteristics. Here, we summarize the current state of knowledge regarding taxonomy, phylogeny, detection, distribution, ecophysiology, life history, food web interactions, and mitigation of blooms formed by Cochlodinium. We review this recent expansion of Cochlodinium blooms and characterize the ecological strategies utilized by Cochlodinium populations to form HABs. Although Cochlodinium is comprised of more than 40 species, we focus primarily on the two HAB-forming species, C. polykrikoides and C. fulvescens, specifically describing their flexible nutrient acquisition strategies, inhibition of grazing by inducing rapid mortality in a diverse set of predators, and allelopathic inhibition of a broad range of competing phytoplankton. Finally, we summarize the available information on prevention, control, and mitigation strategies specific to this genus, and discuss pressing questions regarding this increasingly important HAB organism.
Well-posedness of a 2D swimming model governed in the nonstationary Stokes fluid by multiplicative controls

We introduce and discuss the well-posedness of a schematic simplified mathematical model of an abstract object ‘swimming’ in the 2D nonstationary Stokes fluid. The object consists of finitely many subsequently connected small sets, each of which can act upon a pair of the adjacent sets in a rotation fashion with the purpose to generate its fish-like or rowing motion. The structural integrity of the object is maintained by respective elastic Hooke's forces. Such models are of interest in biological and engineering applications dealing with propulsion systems in fluids. Mathematics-wise, the model equations are described by a complex highly nonlinear hybrid system of partial differential equations and ordinary differential equations, which include a fluid equation and an equation describing the motion of the object in it. Our study is linked to viewing the swimming process as the one governed by multiplicative (bilinear) controls.
Concealment in epipelagic pterotracheid heteropods (Gastropoda) and cranchiid squids (Cephalopoda)

Epipelagic pterotracheid heteropods and young cranchiid squids rely primarily on transparency for concealment; yet they have opaque structures, the eyes and visceral organs that compose the visceral nuclei, which can only be camouflaged in other ways. These two groups have achieved convergent solutions to this problem. The visceral nucleus has a narrow and conical shape and a covering layer of iridophores that lies parallel to the surface of the organ. The eyes also have iridophore layers and tapered shapes. A minimal ventral silhouette results when the long axes of the visceral nucleus and eyes are oriented vertically, with the narrowest ends directed downward. In pterotracheids, this is actively achieved by tilting the nucleus and eyes and flexing the body and proboscis. In cranchiids, tilting of the organs alone suffices and adjustments are accomplished much more rapidly than in the pterotracheids.
Gene Conversion Events Contribute to the Polymorphic Variation of the Surrogate Light Chain Gene λ5/14.1

Abstract Normally occurring and experimentally induced models of immunodeficiency indicate that B cell development and antibody production are influenced by genetic factors. It is highly likely that polymorphic variants in genes that encode receptors for growth and differentiation factors, signal transduction molecules, and components of the B cell and pre-B-cell receptor complex contribute to this genetic control. We have identified a surprisingly large number of polymorphic variants in λ5/14.1. Together with VpreB, λ5/14.1 forms the surrogate light chain in the pre-B-cell receptor complex. Thirteen variant alleles of λ5/14.1 were found in 134 unrelated individuals. Nine of these variants result in changes in the amino acid sequence of this small protein. The majority of the single base pair substitutions in λ5/14.1 could be attributed to gene conversion events in which donor sequences from the λ5 pseudogenes, 16.1, 16.2, and Gλ1, replace the wild-type sequence in the λ5/14.1 functional gene. These findings indicate that gene conversion events play a major role in generating diversity that could affect stability or expression of the pre-B-cell receptor complex.
Grafting of cyclic carbonates onto cotton and modified cottons

Cyclic carbonates react with amines to form carbamates, with alcohols to form hydroxyalkylated products, and with dibasic acids or dibasic acids plus a glycol to form polyesters. These types of reactions between ethylene, propylene, or glycerine carbonate and cotton, either unmodified or modified to contain amine or carboxyl groups, were investigated. Effects of method of application, temperature, time of reaction, and pressure were studied. Temperature in excess of 100°C and reduced pressures were satisfactory for removing the water formed. Reaction between cyclic carbonates, dibasic acids, a glycol, and nonaqueously prepared carboxymethylated cotton in a vacuum oven yielded a fabric with conditioned and wet wrinkle recovery of approximately 300(W + F)°. Infrared spectra, wrinkle recovery, and weight gain indicated that crosslinks formed in reactions between unmodified or carboxymethylated cotton and the cyclic carbonate. Reactions with aminized or diethylaminoethylated cotton formed terminal grafts.
Macroinvertebrate community response to natural and forest harvest gradients in western Oregon headwater streams

Summary 1. To examine the effects of forest harvest practices on headwater stream macroinvertebrates, we compiled a 167 site database with macroinvertebrate, fish, physical habitat and catchment land cover data from the three forested ecoregions in western Oregon. For our analysis, headwater streams were defined by catchment areas <10 km2 and perennial water during summer low flows. Almost all sites in the database were selected using a randomised survey design, constituting a representative sample of headwater streams in these ecoregions. 2. Macroinvertebrate taxonomic and functional feeding group composition were very similar among the three ecoregions in the study area (Coast Range, Cascades and Klamath Mountains). On average, 55% of the individuals at each site were in the orders Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera or Trichoptera. Dipteran taxa (mostly chironomids) accounted for another 34%. At almost all sites, non-insects made up <10% of the macroinvertebrate assemblage. Almost half (49%) of the assemblages were collectors; remaining individuals were about evenly divided among scrapers, shredders and predators. 3. There were 189 different macroinvertebrate taxa at the 167 sites with richness at individual sites ranging from 7 to 71 taxa. Ordination by non-metric multidimensional scaling revealed a strong association between % Ephemeroptera, especially Baetis, and site scores along the first axis. This axis was also strongly related to % coarse substratum and fast water habitat. The second axis was strongly related to % intolerant individuals, site slope and altitude. No strong relationships were evident between any ordination axis and either logging activity, presence/absence of fish, catchment size or ecoregion. 4. Based on macroinvertebrate index of biotic integrity (IBI) scores, 62% of the sites had no impairment, 31% of the sites had slight impairment and only 6% of the sites had moderate or severe impairment. IBI scores were not strongly related to forest harvest history. All four severely impaired sites and five of the seven sites with moderate impairment were lower altitude, shallower slope stream reaches located in the Coast Range with evidence of agricultural activity in their catchment or riparian zone. % sand + fine substratum was the environmental variable most strongly related to macroinvertebrate IBI.
Toxicity of trace metals to Acartia tonsa in the Elizabeth River and southern Chesapeake Bay

Abstract Dissolved zinc and copper and free cupric ions were present at high concentrations in water from the Elizabeth River estuary (a polluted tributary of the southern Chesapeake Bay) when compared to values in nearby Hampton Roads and lower Chesapeake Bay. Zinc concentrations at three stations in the Elizabeth River ranged from 87 to 1550 nM compared to values of 3·1 to 16 nM at four stations in the southern Chesapeake Bay. Likewise, free cupric ion concentration ranged from 10−11·6 to 10−10·1 M at the Elizabeth River stations, but was appreciably lower (10−12·3 to 10−12·6 M) in samples from Hampton Roads and the lower bay. In bioassays conducted with the copepod Acartia tonsa, the survival of naupliar larvae was much lower in Elizabeth River samples, containing high levels of copper and zinc, than in samples from the Chesapeake Bay or Newport River estuary which contained much lower levels of these metals. Based on previous results in trace metal ion buffered media, measured free cupric ion concentrations and estimated free zinc ion concentrations appear to have been high enough in the Elizabeth River samples to account for at least some of the observed decrease in larval survival. Furthermore, the addition of chelators, EDTA and NTA, that complex and detoxify copper and zinc (as well as cadmium, nickel and lead) significantly increased larval survival in the Elizabeth River samples. These results strongly support the hypothesis that elevated levels of copper and zinc (and possibly other toxic trace metals) occur at sufficiently high concentrations in Elizabeth River water to adversely affect Acartia tonsa and other sensitive estuarine organisms.
The Delos Synagogue Revisited Recent Fieldwork in the Graeco-Roman Diaspora

Recent studies and archaeological work have focused attention once again on an old problem—the origins and development of the synagogue—by bringing two sides of the issue to light. On the one hand, some studies have reconsidered theories of synagogue origins in the Babylonian, Persian, or Hellenistic periods. The result is that several traditional assumptions typified in the works of Julian Morgenstern, Solomon Zeitlin, George Foot Moore, and Louis Finkelstein have been questioned. The question of origins has come to rest on the Palestinian setting and on the nature of the “synagogue” not as institution in the later Talmudic sense, but as “assembly.” There is no clear archaeological evidence for synagogue buildings from Second Temple Palestine. Only after 70 CE and the destruction of the Temple, did it emerge as the central institution of Pharisaic-Rabbinic Judaism.
Variable rate vector quantization for medical image compression

Three techniques for variable-rate vector quantizer design are applied to medical images. The first two are extensions of an algorithm for optimal pruning in tree-structured classification and regression due to Breiman et al. The code design algorithms find subtrees of a given tree-structured vector quantizer (TSVQ), each one optimal in that it has the lowest average distortion of all subtrees of the TSVQ with the same or lesser average rate. Since the resulting subtrees have variable depth, natural variable-rate coders result. The third technique is a joint optimization of a vector quantizer and a noiseless variable-rate code. This technique is relatively complex but it has the potential to yield the highest performance of all three techniques. >
Are peristaltic pumps as reliable as syringe pumps for metabolic research? assessment of accuracy, precision, and metabolic kinetics

Syringe pumps are traditionally used to infuse tracers in metabolic research because they are perceived to be more accurate and precise than peristaltic pumps. This study evaluated the accuracy (actual v programmed infusion rate) and precision (reproducibility of infusion) of a peristaltic pump (Gemini PC 2; IMED, San Diego, CA) and a syringe pump (Model 22; Harvard Apparatus, Natick, MA) for metabolic research. In one protocol, saline delivery was measured in vitro in 5 trials at 4 flow rates: 3, 30, 150, and 300 mL/h. In the second protocol, basal glycerol rate of appearance (Ra) was determined in vivo in 5 women on 2 consecutive days. On day 1, [2-(13C)]glycerol was infused with 1 pump and [1,1,2,3,3-(2H5)]glycerol with the other. On day 2, the opposite pattern was used. The accuracy of the 2 pumps was the same (error approximately 2%). In addition, both the syringe and the peristaltic pumps were very precise, with coefficients of variation (CV) <1% at all flow rates. Glycerol Ra values were the same when tracer was infused with either a syringe or peristaltic pump on day 1 and day 2: 4.1 +/- 1.7 (syringe pump) and 4.2 +/- 1.9 (peristaltic pump) micromol. kg fat mass (FM)(-1). min(-1) on day 1; 4.2 +/- 1.2 (syringe pump) and 4.2 +/- 1.3 (peristaltic pump) micromol. kg FM(-1). min(-1) on day 2. These data demonstrate that both syringe and peristaltic pumps are very accurate and precise across a large range of flow rates. Moreover, the assessment of in vivo substrate kinetics in human subjects is the same when either pump is used to infuse isotope tracers.
Critical Role of Histone Methylation in Tumor Suppressor Gene Silencing in Colorectal Cancer

The mechanism of DNA hypermethylation-associated tumor suppressor gene silencing in cancer remains incompletely understood. Here, we show by chromatin immunoprecipitation that for three genes (P16, MLH1, and the O(6)-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase gene, MGMT), histone H3 Lys-9 methylation directly correlates and histone H3 Lys-9 acetylation inversely correlates with DNA methylation in three neoplastic cell lines. Treatment with the histone deacetylase inhibitor trichostatin A (TSA) resulted in moderately increased Lys-9 acetylation at silenced loci with no effect on Lys-9 methylation and minimal effects on gene expression. By contrast, treatment with the DNA methyltransferase inhibitor 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine (5Aza-dC) rapidly reduced Lys-9 methylation at silenced loci and resulted in reactivation for all three genes. Combined treatment with 5Aza-dC and TSA was synergistic in reactivating gene expression through simultaneous effects on Lys-9 methylation and acetylation, which resulted in a robust increase in the ratio of Lys-9 acetylated and methylated histones at loci showing dense DNA methylation. By contrast to Lys-9, histone H3 Lys-4 methylation inversely correlated with promoter DNA methylation, was not affected by TSA, and was increased moderately at silenced loci by 5Aza-dC. Our results suggest that reduced H3 Lys-4 methylation and increased H3 Lys-9 methylation play a critical role in the maintenance of promoter DNA methylation-associated gene silencing in colorectal cancer.
Semen-Specific Genetic Characteristics of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 env

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) in the male genital tract may comprise virus produced locally in addition to virus transported from the circulation. Virus produced in the male genital tract may be genetically distinct, due to tissue-specific cellular characteristics and immunological pressures. HIV-1 env sequences derived from paired blood and semen samples from the Los Alamos HIV Sequence Database were analyzed to ascertain a male genital tract-specific viral signature. Machine learning algorithms could predict seminal tropism based on env sequences with accuracies exceeding 90%, suggesting that a strong genetic signature does exist for virus replicating in the male genital tract. Additionally, semen-derived viral populations exhibited constrained diversity (P < 0.05), decreased levels of positive selection (P < 0.025), decreased CXCR4 coreceptor utilization, and altered glycosylation patterns. Our analysis suggests that the male genital tract represents a distinct selective environment that contributes to the apparent genetic bottlenecks associated with the sexual transmission of HIV-1.
Proactive aging: a longitudinal study of stress, resources, agency, and well-being in late life.

Objectives: Using the Proactivity Model of Successful Aging, we examined how internal and external resources contribute to the maintenance of psychological well-being and social activities among older adults who experience normative stressors of aging. Outcome variables in this study are collectively referred to as quality of life (QOL). We also examined the mediating role of proactive adaptations between internal and external resources and QOL indicators. Method: Based on five annual interviews of a sample of 1000 community-dwelling older adults in Florida (effective N = 561), we tested the lagged effects of stressors on two indicators of QOL, four years later. In the full longitudinal model, using structural equations, we estimated the direct effects of internal and external resources on QOL, along with indirect effects through proactive adaptations. Results: Stressors negatively influenced QOL four years later. Internal and external resources led to better QOL four years later, both directly and indire...
EFFECTS OF CROWDING ON CLONAL CULTURES OF MYZUS PERSICAE (SULZ.)

Nymph production of the green peach aphid Myzus persicae decreased significantly under crowded conditions in leaf cages and on whole plants. The reduction was mainly caused by a reduced reproductive period but mean daily nymph production was also slightly decreased. Crowding also caused increased restlessness and a tendency for aphids to fall from plants. There were significant differences in nymph production among clones maintained under identical conditions of crowding. L'EFFET DE GROUPEMENT SUR DES CLONES D'ELEVAGE DE MYZUS PERSICAE La fecondite du puceron vert de pecher, Myzus persicae, subit une reduction significative lorsqu'il y a surpopulation dans les cages sur les feuilles et sur les plantes entieres. En cas de groupement excessif, la diminution de leur longevite est considerable, mais la moyenne de la production quotidienne des nymphes decroit legerement. De plus, la surpopulation augmente l'inquietude parmi les aphides qui par suite developpent une tendance a tomber des plantes. La comparaison dans des conditions identiques, des clones des Etats du Washington et de l'Oregon produisirent des effets differents: le clone d'Oregon 02K4 et Idaho, produisit un nombre de nymphes considerablement plus eleve alors que le clone d'Oregon 03D6, comme les clones du Washington et de l'Etat de Californie maintinrent une population reduite pendant un mois. 1978 The Netherlands Entomological Society
Using Content Reading Assignments in a Psychology Course to Teach Critical Reading Skills.

Liberal arts students are expected to graduate college with fully developed critical reading and writing skills. However, for a variety of reasons these skills are not always as well developed as they might be - both during and upon completion of college. This paper describes a reading assignment that was designed to increase students’ discipline-specific critical reading and writing skills. The assignment was piloted in a mid-level social psychology class. Pre-test/post-test comparisons indicate substantial improvement in students’ ability to identify thesis statements, recognize and interpret evidence, and other critical reading skills. Furthermore, students themselves rate the assignment as efficacious in helping them with both their reading and writing skills.
Portal Hypertensive Gastropathy, Enteropathy, and Colopathy

Abstract The entire gastrointestinal (GI) tract can be affected by portal hypertension. Portal hypertension can cause esophageal varices, gastric varices, portal hypertensive gastropathy (PHG), portal hypertensive enteropathy, and portal colopathy. All of these lesions can cause acute and chronic GI hemorrhage. PHG is typically observed in the gastric body and fundus. Although gastric antral vascular ectasias (GAVE) can be observed in patients with portal hypertension, GAVE is different from PHG histologically and etiologically. ‘Diffuse-type GAVE' can be seen in patients with portal hypertension. In this video presentation, various endoscopic findings of PHG, portal hypertensive enteropathy, and portal colopathy are described. This article is part of an expert video encyclopedia.
Continental warming preceding the Palaeocene–Eocene thermal maximum

The Palaeocene–Eocene thermal maximum (PETM) is a well-known abrupt warming that occurred about 55.8 million years ago and is usually thought to have been caused by a large release of greenhouse gases, probably from methane hydrates, as recorded in a large carbon isotope excursion. Ross Secord and colleagues have used isotopic analysis of mammal teeth from the Bighorn Basin, Wyoming, to show that continental warming of about 5 °C preceded the isotopic excursion. The PETM therefore seems to have been caused by at least two separate warming events, each forced by different processes. The Palaeocene–Eocene thermal maximum (PETM) is a well-known abrupt warming that occurred at about 55.8 Myr ago and is usually thought to have been caused by a large release of greenhouse gases, as recorded in a large carbon isotope excursion. Yet some marine evidence suggests that in fact the warming came first. Here it is shown that continental warming of about 5 °C preceded the excursion in the Bighorn Basin, Wyoming. Thus the PETM seems to have been caused by at least two separate warming events. Marine and continental records1 show an abrupt negative shift in carbon isotope values at ∼55.8 Myr ago. This carbon isotope excursion (CIE) is consistent with the release of a massive amount of isotopically light carbon into the atmosphere and was associated with a dramatic rise in global temperatures termed the Palaeocene–Eocene thermal maximum (PETM). Greenhouse gases released during the CIE, probably including methane, have often been considered the main cause of PETM warming. However, some evidence from the marine record suggests that warming directly preceded the CIE2,3,4, raising the possibility that the CIE and PETM may have been linked to earlier warming with different origins. Yet pre-CIE warming is still uncertain. Disentangling the sequence of events before and during the CIE and PETM is important for understanding the causes of, and Earth system responses to, abrupt climate change. Here we show that continental warming of about 5 °C preceded the CIE in the Bighorn Basin, Wyoming. Our evidence, based on oxygen isotopes in mammal teeth (which reflect temperature-sensitive fractionation processes) and other proxies, reveals a marked temperature increase directly below the CIE, and again in the CIE. Pre-CIE warming is also supported by a negative amplification of δ13C values in soil carbonates below the CIE. Our results suggest that at least two sources of warming—the earlier of which is unlikely to have been methane—contributed to the PETM.
How Much DNA Is Lost?: Measuring DNA Loss of Short-Tandem-Repeat Length Fragments Targeted by the PowerPlex 16 ® System Using the Qiagen MinElute Purification Kit

This is an article accepted for publication in Human Biology, 86 (4), 2014, following peer review. The definitive publisher-authenticated version is available from Wayne State University Press.
A new instrumented approach for translating American Sign Language into sound and text

This work discusses an approach for capturing and translating isolated gestures of American Sign Language into spoken and written words. The instrumented part of the system combines an AcceleGlove and a two-link arm skeleton. Gestures of the American Sign Language are broken down into unique sequences of phonemes called poses and movements, recognized by software modules trained and tested independently on volunteers with different hand sizes and signing ability. Recognition rates of independent modules reached up to 100% for 42 postures, orientations, 11 locations and 7 movements using linear classification. The overall sign recognizer was tested using a subset of the American Sign Language dictionary comprised by 30 one-handed signs, achieving 98% accuracy. The system proved to be scalable: when the lexicon was extended to 176 signs and tested without retraining, the accuracy was 95%. This represents an improvement over classification based on hidden Markov models (HMMs) and neural networks (NNs).
Isolation and characterization of N6-succinyladenosine from human urine

From the urines of colon carcinoma patients and normal subjects we have isolated a nucleoside in which an amino group of aspartic acid is attached to the six position of purine ribonucleoside. The structure, N6-succinyladenosine, N-(9-B-D-ribofuranosylpurin-6-yl)aspartic acid was assigned on the basis of spectral data, chemical degradation, and by synthesis. The ultraviolet and mass spectra, chromatographic and electrophoretic mobilities, and the chemical properties of the naturally occurring nucleoside were identical to those of the synthetic N6-succinyladenosine. In contrast to the methylated and hypermodified nucleosides which are products of RNA catabolism, this urinary nucleoside appears to be derived from adenylosuccinic acid, a key intermediate required in the biosynthesis of ubiquitous, natural purine nucleotide adenosine-5'-monophosphate (AMP).
Vascular evaluation and arterial reconstruction of the diabetic foot

Findings of diminished or absent pulses, pallor on elevation, redness of the foot on lowering of the leg, sluggish refilling of the toe capillaries, and thickened nails or absence of toe hair are consistent with impaired arterial perfusion to the foot. When ischemia is recognized as contributing to pedal ulceration and infection in the diabetic foot, quantitation of its severity may be difficult. Standard clinical evaluation of trophic changes is limited in an infected foot with its accompanying swelling, edema, and erythema. A palpable pedal pulse does not preclude the possibility of the presence of limb-threatening ischemia. Additional non-invasive vascular studies should be undertaken for these patients. Management of the diabetic foot is often a complex clinical problem. However, the principles of care are simple, including correction of systemic factors, such as blood glucose control, cardiovascular risk factor management, and smoking, as well as local factor correction, such as debridement, pressure relief, infection control, and revascularization when indicated. When a patient presents with evidence of infection, adequate drainage and antibiotic therapy are mandatory. The next step should be performed to differentiate the more common neuropathic ulcerations from the truly ischemic ulceration. Symptoms of rest pain or claudication are not often helpful because many of these patients are asymptomatic as a result of the presence of their neuropathy and inactivity. If an infected foot requires debridement or open partial forefoot amputation, observing the wound on a daily base is also important. Once infection is eradicated, there should be prompt signs of healing, including the development of wound granulation within several days. If wounds are not showing signs of prompt healing, arteriography is necessary. Early aggressive drainage, debridement, and local foot amputations combined with liberal use of revascularization results in cumulative limb salvage of 74% at 5 years in high-risk groups. Others report that pedal bypass to the ischemic infected foot is effective and safe as long as infection adequately controlled. These studies strongly suggest that early recognition and aggressive surgical drainage of pedal sepsis followed by surgical revascularization is critical to achieving maximal limb salvage in the high-risk population. Patients who have diabetes present a unique challenge in lower extremity revascularization because of the distal origination of many bypasses, distal distribution of the occlusive disease, and the frequently calcified arterial wall. An aggressive multidisciplinary approach to foot disease associated with diabetes involving the primary care provider, medical specialists, interventional radiology, and podiatric, plastic, and vascular surgeons will provide optimal medical and surgical care. Peripheral vascular disease is highly treatable if intervention is instituted in a timely and collegial fashion.
A Review of: “Teaching & Learning through Inquiry: A Guidebook for Institutions & Instructors”

Teaching & Learning through Inquiry is a handbook describing an innovative pedagogical approach applicable across the postsecondary curriculum. Virginia S. Lee, former associate director of the fac...
Cautionary Note Concerning the CuSO(4) X-Ray Laser.

For the so far unconfirmed lasing action claimed by Kepros et al. (1972) to have been obtained by focusing a 1.06-micron radiation of a q-switched Nd(3+) glass laser to a small cylindrical volume inside a CuSO4-doped gelatin medium supported between two glass plates, an alternate explanation is proposed that does not depend on the assumption of laser action in copper. The proposed explanation shows how collimated X-ray beams might be created under the experimental conditions described by Kepros et al.
Induction of antigen-specific T suppressor cells by soluble Paracoccidioides brasiliensis antigen.

Abstract In naturally acquired paracoccidioidomycosis, patients have depressed in vivo and in vitro cell-mediated immune (CMI) responses to Paracoccidioides brasiliensis antigen. In addition, it has been reported that these patients have significant levels of circulating paracoccidioidal antigen in their sera. The primary purpose of this investigation was to assess the effects of P. brasiliensis antigen on the CMI responses in a mouse model. On the basis of findings with other fungal agents, we predicted that circulating paracoccidioidal antigen may be inducing suppressor cells which modulate the CMI response. In this study, we show (i) that a soluble P. brasiliensis culture filtrate antigen (Pb.Ag) emulsified in complete Freund adjuvant and injected subcutaneously into mice induces reasonably high levels of delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) in CBA/J mice; (ii) that Pb.Ag elicits DTH reactions specific for P. brasiliensis when injected into footpads of immunized mice; and (iii) that an intravenous injection of Pb.Ag induces a population of lymph node and spleen cells which, upon adoptive transfer, suppress the afferent limb of the DTH response to paracoccidioidal antigen. The afferent suppressor cells can be detected in spleens as early as 5 days after Pb.Ag treatment, are present in significant numbers by 7 days in both spleens and lymph nodes, and are virtually absent by 14 days. In contrast, at 14 days after antigen injection, efferent suppressor cells were detected in spleens and lymph nodes. The Pb.Ag-induced afferent suppressor cells specifically inhibit the antiparacoccidioidal DTH response. They are nylon wool-nonadherent cells, and their activity is abrogated by anti-Thy-1 and complement treatment, indicating that they are T lymphocytes. The phenotype of these afferent suppressor T cells is L3T4+ Lyt-1+2- I-J+. The Pb.Ag-specific suppressor cells described in this paper are similar to the Ts1 cells in the azobenzenearsonate, 4-hydroxy-3-nitrophenyl acetyl, and cryptococcal models of suppression of the DTH response and to the afferent suppressor cells in the dinitrofluorobenzene contact sensitivity system.
Chemistry and Properties of Poly(Arylene Ether Benzimidazole)S

As part of a program to develop high performance structural resins for aerospace applications, a variety of poly(arylene ether benzimidazole)s were prepared by the nucleophilic displacement reaction of activated aromatic difluorides with bis(hydroxyphenylbenzimidazole) monomers. Glass transition temperatures as high as 364°C and room temperature unoriented thin film tensile strength and modulus as high as 22.8 ksi and 652 ksi, respectively, were observed. The polymer prepared from the reaction of 1,3-bis(4- fluorobenzoyl)benzene and 5,5’-bis[2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)benzimidazole] was selected for more extensive evaluation. To improve the processability, the molecular weight was reduced by upsetting the stoichiometry. Polymers were endcapped with benzimidazole, ethynyl and phenylethynyl groups. The chemistry, physical, and mechanical properties of these materials are presented.
Thermal Test Requirements for Spacecraft Propulsion Subsystem Units

Thermal testing requirements for spacecraft propulsion subsystem units are specified in MIL-STD-1540E for qualification, protoqualification, and acceptance hardware categorized as propulsion units, thrusters, and pressure vessels. For the propulsion subsystem, there is a relatively large number of unit types with varying degrees of complexity. Furthermore, propulsion units have different failure mechanisms that are precipitated by different test environments. As such, the categorization in MIL-STD-1540E provides a top-level method of grouping propulsion units, but does not address thermal testing requirements of specific propulsion units based upon their individual test objectives. The purpose of this report is to describe typical units that comprise a spacecraft propulsion subsystem, discuss common failures found for these types of units, and give recommendations and rationale as to how these units should be thermally tested to best meet their test objectives of demonstrating performance and screening for design and workmanship defects.
Hodgkin's disease: diagnosis by fine-needle aspiration biopsy. Analysis of cytologic criteria from a selected series.

Two hundred thirteen cases in which a lymph node aspirate and subsequent surgical biopsy had been performed were studied independently by four observers. Each observer attempted to discriminate involvement by Hodgkin’s disease from involvement by other processes. The material included 18 cases of histologically confirmed Hodgkin’s disease. The remaining 195 cases included a wide range of pathologic processes. All four observers were able to distinguish Hodgkin’s disease from other processes in the great majority of cases. Two observers reviewed the aspirate material from the 18 cases of Hodgkin’s disease to determine the presence and significance of elements known to characterize this disease, i.e ., multinuclear and mononuclear Reed-Sternberg cells, polyploidal cells, granulomatous elements, metachromatic material, necrosis, eosinophils, neutrophils, and plasma cells. Reed-Sternberg cells were present in most but not all cases. Reed-Sternberg–like cells also were occasionally encountered in other processes. Polyploidal cells were invariably present and were useful in recognizing the disease. Granulomatous elements, metachromatic material, necrosis, eosinophils, and neutrophils were frequently present and, while not specific for the process, helped to draw attention to or substantiate the diagnosis of Hodgkin’s disease.
Survey of a poisoning in college students due to accidental drinking Gelseminm elegances Benth's flower tea

Objective To survey the cause of a poisoning in college student due to mistaken drinking of Gelsemium elegans Benth's flower tea.Methods Epidemiologic survey was conducted and the results were analyzed.Results Nine patients were poisoned and two died,all of them were male college students aged 19～22 years old(with median incubation period of 30 min). Clinical manifestations were nervous system toxicity characterized by acuteness,dizziness,nausea,vomiting,sand-blind,dyspnea, cyanopathy,coma,etc.All of the poisoned students mistakenly drank Gelsemium elegans Benth flower tea.Conclusion The poi- soning is due to mistaken drinks Gelsemium elegans Benth's flower tea.
Calculation of key parameters of long-time induction withstanding voltage test for 750 kV power transformer

As limited by the capacity of test equipments, frequency converting resonance boosters are employed in all of on-site long-time induction withstanding voltage tests for 750 kV power transformers. Before a test, the resonant frequency is uncertain, and it’s difficult to measure the lumped capacitance of transformer windings. Consequently, the inductive reactive power need to be compensated is difficult to confirm. In addition, the inaccurate estimation of the resonant frequency will lead to large deviation between estimated value and actual value of capacity of testing power. Based on two cases of on-site long-time induction withstanding voltage tests for 750 kV power transformers, which are both failed, and aimed at the difficulty to accurately calculate the on-site testing frequency and the testing power capacity, a method to calculate the two parameters accurately was presented.The validity and accuracy of this calculating method was proved in the 750kV voltage transformer on-site test when measuring the resonant frequency and the current of testing power.
Comments on the recent progress of Washington Accord

As a continuation of one of the author's papers in 1996[1], the author presents the recent progress of the international recog- nition of degrees and profesional qualifications and his comments concerned. The author emphasizes that the international recognition is an important problem for the Chinses community of engineering and engineering education, and it is also an important issue for making preparations for joining the World Trade Organivation(WTO),especially in the respect of professional services trade.