cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Influence of substituents on reductive dehalogenation of 3-chlorobenzoate analogs.

The biochemical effects of aryl substituents on the reductive dechlorination of 3-chlorobenzoate analogs were quantified with (i) a stable 3-chlorobenzoate-grown methanogenic sludge enrichment, (ii) Desulfomonile tiedjei DCB-1, isolated from this enrichment and able to catalyze the reductive dechlorination of 3-chlorobenzoate, and (iii) a defined 3-chlorobenzoate-degrading methanogenic consortium with D. tiedjei as the key dechlorinating organism. The addition of hydrogen stimulated the dechlorination rate in the consortium. The extent of this stimulation depended on the substituent. The data were evaluated with various sets of substituent constants compiled for the Hammett equation. None of the sets yielded a satisfactory correlation between experimental values and theoretical constants. This suggests that the microbially catalyzed reductive dechlorination of 3-chlorobenzoate cannot be described simply as either a nucleophilic or an electrophilic substitution reaction. Nevertheless, observations that the presence of a para-amino or -hydroxy group inhibited the rate of dechlorination suggest that the rate-limiting step in the reductive dechlorination of 3-chlorobenzoate is a nucleophilic attack on the negatively charged π electron cloud around the benzene nucleus.
Chemical extraction of Zn from ZnMn2O4-based spinels

With an aim to increase the energy density compared to current Li-ion batteries, there is immense interest in rechargeable batteries with multivalent cations, such as Mg2+ and Zn2+, as they could provide higher charge storage capacity. α-MnO2 has been investigated as a cathode for Zn-ion batteries, but other structures could be explored. Accordingly, this study investigates the chemical extraction of Zn from the spinel compositions ZnMn2−xNixO4 (x = 0, 0.5, and 1) using H2SO4 and NO2BF4. Acid treatment is able to extract Zn from the structure through a Mn3+ disproportionation reaction that is dependent on the Mn3+ content. Zn extraction decreases with increasing Ni content due to the decrease in Mn3+ content; in fact, ZnMnNiO4 does not lose any Zn upon acid treatment because all of the Mn ions are in the 4+ state. Treatment with NO2BF4, however, is unable to extract any Zn from the samples, unlike in the analogous LiMn2O4 spinel. This is believed to be due to the high electrostatic repulsion that Zn2+ ions would feel from other Zn2+ ions in neighboring tetrahedral sites as they have to diffuse through the unoccupied octahedral sites in the spinel lattice, and Zn2+ does not prefer octahedral sites. Because NO2BF4 more closely approximates the extraction mechanism experienced in a Zn-ion cell, it appears that the ideal spinel structure is not suitable as a Zn-ion battery cathode unless synthesis conditions or additional treatments were used to create vacancies in the structure that allows for easier Zn-ion diffusion without much electrostatic repulsion.
Clinicopathological features and survival outcomes of primary signet ring cell and mucinous adenocarcinoma of colon: retrospective analysis of VACCR database.

Background: Signet ring cell carcinoma (SRCC) accounts for less than 1% of all colon cancers. We examined the clinicopathological features and prognosis of signet ring cell and mucinous adenocarcinoma (MCC) of colon. Methods: A total of 206 patients diagnosed with SRCC from 1995 to 2009 were identified from the VA Central Cancer Registry (VACCR) database. Age, race, histology, grade, lymph node status, stage and type of treatment received data were collected. Results: Out of 206 patients, 173 (84%) were white, 31 (15%) were black, and 2 patients were listed as unknown. Median age of diagnosis was 67 years as compared to 70 years for both mucinous cell (MCC) and non-mucinous adenocarcinoma (NMCC) of colon. Pathological T-stages were as follows: T1 =3%, T2 =5%, T3 =34%, T4 =26%, and unknown 32%. Of the total, 22.3% were located in cecum, 7.7% in appendix, 21.8% in ascending colon, 7.7% in hepatic flexure of colon, 11% in transverse colon, 2.9% in splenic flexure 4.4% in descending colon, and 15.5% in sigmoid colon. 46.5% were lymph node positive, 21% were lymph node negative, and 32.5% were unknown. SRCC were in general poorly differentiated tumors (57%), small proportion of patients included were well-differentiated tumors with focal signet ring cell pathology (10%) and in 33% grade was unknown. Among stage 3 patients, 34% patients received only surgery while 64% received surgery with adjuvant chemotherapy and 2% received chemotherapy alone. The stage specific 5-year survivals for SRCC, MCC and NMCC were--Stage I: 100%, 61%, and 41% respectively (P<0.0001); Stage II: 42%, 58% and 32% respectively (P<0.0001); Stage III: 19%, 41% and 47% respectively (P=0.0002); Stage IV: 1.5%, 7% and 31% respectively (P<0.0001). Median survival of SRCC compared to NMCC was 18.6 vs. 46 months (P<0.0001) and mucinous cell adenocarcinoma versus NMCC was 47.8 and 46 months (P=0.63) respectively. Conclusions: SRCC of colon has poor survival rates compared to other histological subtypes. SRCC presents at an earlier age, has higher tumor grade and advanced stage at diagnosis when compared to mucinous and NMCC of colon. Due to rarity of this disease further prospective multi-institute studies are required for in-depth understanding of this disease.
A greedy assignment algorithm and its performance evaluation

Data association is a critical problem in multitarget tracking. In fact, it is the bottleneck of most of the multitarget tracking algorithms such as multiple hypothesis tracker (MHT). In this paper, we propose a heuristic assignment algorithm which determine approximately the N best data association hypotheses in an efficient manner. This "greedy" algorithm is based on the "branch and bound" concept and has the flexibility of adapting to various scenarios. Performance evaluation of the algorithm based on simulation is also presented.
Involvement of Regucalcin in Protein Synthesis and Proteolysis: Regulation of the Enzyme Activity in the Cytoplasm and Nucleus

Regucalcin was discovered in 1978 as a novel calcium-binding protein. The name, regucalcin, was proposed for this calcium-binding protein, which regulates various Ca 2+- or Ca 2+ /calmodulin-dependent enzyme activations. The regucalcin gene (gene symbol;rgn) is localized on the X chromosome. Regucalcin has been demonstrated to play a multifunctional role in the regulation of intracellular calcium homeostasis, signal transduction, gene expression, cell proliferation and apoptosis in various types of cells and tissues. The cytoplasmic regucalcin translocases to the nucleus and suppresses nuclear deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and ribonucleic acid (RNA) synthesis. Moreover, regucalcin has been shown to reveal a suppressive effect on protein synthesis and a stimulatory effect on protein degradation. Regucalcin has been found to inhibit aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase and activate thiol protease. Â Regucalcin may play a suppressive role in the regulation of protein turnover in cells.
High surface area graphitized carbon with uniform mesopores synthesised by a colloidal imprinting method

Heat treatment of mesoporous carbons obtained by colloidal imprinting of mesophase pitch particles was used to prepare graphitized carbons with uniform mesopores and high surface area.
Postintubation Tracheal Stenosis in a Blue and Gold Macaw (Ara ararauna) Resolved With Tracheal Resection and Anastomosis

Abstract A 20-year-old female blue and gold macaw (Ara ararauna) was presented with an acute onset of labored breathing and vocalization changes. Tracheoscopy revealed a stenotic tracheal lesion, which reduced the luminal diameter by approximately 75%. Tracheal resection and anastomosis was performed, and the tracheal lesion was submitted for histopathologic analysis. Postoperative therapy included antibiotic, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory medications. The trachea healed with no major complications. The histologic diagnosis was mild, focal, chronic tracheitis. The cause of the lesion was presumed to be postintubation stenosis on the basis of the normal gross appearance of the external trachea, the location of the lesion, and a recent history of general anesthesia delivered by endotracheal tube.
Structural Basis for Foreign DNA Integration in CRISPR Adaptive Immunity

A key stage of CRISPR/Cas adaptive immunity in bacteria and archaea is the site-specific integration of short, foreign DNA sequences, called spacers, into the host CRISPR locus. The small RNA products of these spacer sequences are used as guides by CRISPR proteins for silencing complementary viral sequences. Despite extensive research highlighting the maturation of the CRISPR RNA guides and the targeting step mediated by CRISPR ribonucleoprotein complexes, little is known about how spacer sequences are initially integrated into the host CRISPR locus. Recently developed in vivo integration assays revealed that Cas1 and Cas2 are the only CRISPR proteins required for this step. Here we show that Cas1 and Cas2 associate to form a protein complex. Using a combination of biochemical and structural approaches, we present the mechanism of spacer acquisition mediated by the Cas1-Cas2 complex.
Abstract A50: Inhibition of IL-8 production by pancreatic cancer cells with marine natural products.

Pancreatic cancer presents one of the most negative prognoses of all cancers, as it has usually metastasized by the time a patient is diagnosed. Therefore, almost as many deaths as new cases are expected each year. Although combination therapy shows some promise, the need for new drugs to treat the disease is pressing. Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute (HBOI) has developed a unique library of marine samples and its research program seeks to tap into the biological diversity of the oceans to find potential anti-cancer drugs. Inflammation has been connected to pancreatic cancer development and progression. A recent study has shown that IL-8 mediates the angiogenesis of tumors arising from Ras-mutations. Ras is a proto-oncogene that is mutationally activated in 90% of pancreatic adenocarcinomas. Overexpression of IL-8 in pancreatic tumors is thought to promote tumor angiogenesis and to activate survival signaling pathways. Given our interest in finding new therapies for pancreatic cancer, we set up a 96-well cell-based assay to screen our library of marine natural products for those with the ability to inhibit IL-8 production by pancreatic cancer cells. A thousand fractions were screened resulting in the identification of marine natural products with the ability to inhibit IL-8 secretion by the BxPC-3 pancreatic cancer cell line. Studies are currently underway to determine if this inhibition leads to an inhibition in angiogenesis or affects cell proliferation. Citation Format: Esther A. Guzman, Tara Pitts, Amy E. Wright. Inhibition of IL-8 production by pancreatic cancer cells with marine natural products. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Tumor Immunology: Multidisciplinary Science Driving Basic and Clinical Advances; Dec 2-5, 2012; Miami, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(1 Suppl):Abstract nr A50.
Video analysis of anticipatory movements performed by surgeons during laparoscopic procedures

Background This video-aided observational study was conducted to examine team cooperation among surgeons in a surgical team built up with different time lengths. We predicted that the surgeons in a team that has longer teamwork experience would perform more anticipatory movements than surgeons in a surgical team that is newly formed. Methods Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication cases were videotaped with both surgical view and the OR view. An anticipatory movement was identified when a surgeon manually provided direct assistance for an upcoming task without a request by other surgeons in the team. Result A total of 28 cases of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication were videotaped and analyzed. Fifteen operations were performed by surgeons collaborating as a team for 10 weeks, in contrast to 13 operations performed by surgeons paired up for less than 5 weeks. Significantly more anticipatory movements were performed by the surgeons in the dedicated team (22 counts) than by those in the developing team (19 counts, p = 0.029). However, the OR time was not significantly different (dedicated team = 111 min, developing team = 115 min, p = 0.611) between the two teams which suggests that other types of coordination would also influence surgical teamwork. Conclusion Working in a team allows surgeons to develop sophisticated cognition to anticipate an upcoming task and provide assistance without verbal communication. The greater number of anticipatory movements observed in the dedicated surgical team suggests that anticipatory movement can be a valuable measure for team cooperation. Further research with a larger number of cases is needed to see whether performance of more anticipatory movements does shorten OR time.
The Effects of Student Financial Aid on Access to Higher Education: An Analysis of Progress with Special Consideration of Minority Enrollment.

An objective of the federal student financial aid programs is to promote access to higher education, especially for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. During the past few years, concern has been expressed by diverse segments of the higher education community that this objective is not being met for black and Hispanic students. This article analyzes the effects of aid offers on enrollment decisions by college applicants from the classes of 1972, 1980, and 1982, and analyzes the effects the type of aid offered had on enrollment by minority students in the classes of 1980 and 1982. The principal findings from this analysis are that (1) all types of aid packages had a positive impact on enroliment decisions by college applicants in all three classes, and (2) all types of aid had a positive influence on enrollment by minority students.
An analytical description of overall phase transformation kinetics applied to the recrystallization of pure iron

Abstract Experimental studies of recrystallization in deformed single crystals of pure iron are described. The results are used to analyze various parameters associated with the time evolution of the volume fraction of the growing phase during phase transformations in this system associated with the phenomena of nucleation and growth. In addition, using the experimental results, the phenomenon has been modeled by a new approach which may provide a different, and possibly more precise, description of the kinetics of the process. The proposed analytical approach uses easily measured metallographic parameters, obtained from a systematic two-dimensional surface examination, to provide a detailed description on the time dependence of nucleation, nucleation rate, growth rate and interfacial migration and compared with the classical approach based on Kolomogrov formalism.
Assessment of the correlation of platelet morphology with in vivo recovery and survival.

BACKGROUND: There is continuing interest in the development of in vitro tests evaluating the in vivo function, recovery, and survival of platelets stored for transfusion. A recent forum concluded that no completely reliable test exists, although discoid morphology indicates a platelet's good health. We evaluated a novel device, the NAPSAC (Noninvasive Assessment of Platelet Shape and Concentration), designed to determine noninvasively the proportion of discoid platelets in a stored concentrate, as well as platelet concentration. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Twenty-eight plateletapheresis concentrates stored 24 hours in PL-146 were evaluated. Percent discoid platelet results were correlated with radiolabeled autologous recovery and survival performed using 111Indium oxyquinoline and calculated using linear (L) and multiple-hit (M) models. pH of 8 concentrates was raised at the end of storage with 6N NaOH. Platelet concentration measured by NAPSAC and Coulter Thrombocounter C was compared in 256 plateletapheresis products. RESULTS: Percent discoid platelets at 24 hours did not correlate significantly with platelet recovery or survival (recovery L = 0.29, M = 0.28; survival L = 0.16, M = 0.03). Raising the pH (mean 6.38 to 6.94) resulted in a significant increase in percent discoid platelets (21% to 41%). Platelet concentration values for both methods studied were linearly correlated with a slope of 1.01 ± 0.03, r = 0.81. CONCLUSION: Percent discoid platelets was not predictive of posttransfusion platelet recovery or survival. The results suggest that non-discoid platelets may survive posttransfusion and even revert to discoid shape, since raising the pH approximately doubled the percent of discoid platelets. The NAPSAC was shown to be a reliable instrument for noninvasively determining platelet concentration in PL-146 concentrates.
Case report: imaging features in a renal transplant patient with calcineurin inhibitor-induced pain syndrome (CIPS).

Post-transplant distal limb bone marrow edema syndrome or calcineurin inhibitor-induced pain syndrome (CIPS) is generally a self-limiting but debilitating acute pain syndrome that has been reported in 2–14 % of renal transplant recipients. The disease is extensively described in the transplant literature in patients receiving the calcineurin inhibitors cyclosporine and tacrolimus. We present a case of CIPS arising in a patient 73 days after renal allograft, review the imaging findings, and discuss proposed etiologies and differential diagnoses. To the authors’ knowledge, CIPS has not been characterized as a distinct entity in the radiology literature.
Materials for Advanced Energy Technologies

The recovery and processing of industrial materials required about 16 percent of the total U.S. energy consumption in 1974. The interdependence of energy and materials has been increasing and will continue to increase as the more easily won raw materials are exhausted and as the energy conversion and utilization schemes become more sophisticated. The author stresses the materials technology that will be required in major developing systems for extracting, converting, distributing, and using energy--emphasizing that development of suitable materials often takes many years. A detailed schematic is shown that represents the energy sources; methods of processing, conversion, transmission, and storage; and forms of fuel energy that may exist in the near term, up to about 1990. The schematic indicates that uranium, gas, coal, and oil will probably still contribute more than 95 percent of the total energy flow in 1990. For the near term, coal liquefaction, coal gasification, water-moderated reactors, municipal waste, high-temperature turbines, and geothermal will contribute up to 5 percent. For the midterm, 1990 to 2005, fast breeder reactors, photovoltaic conversion of solar energy to electricity, MHD, and flywheels should contribute significantly. The projections for controlled fusion in the year 2005 and beyond are summarized. The magnitude ofmore » the problem involves sustained effort from universities, industrial organizations, and government laboratories, guided by close interplay with energy system designers. (MCW)« less
The baboon oviduct: characteristics of an oestradiol-dependent oviduct-specific glycoprotein

The baboon oviductal epithelium differentiates into a tall columnar epithelium consisting of ciliated and secretory cells during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle in response to rising oestradiol levels. The apical tips of these secretory cells are filled with membrane-bound secretory granules. During the luteal phase when progesterone levels are elevated, the epithelium regresses and deciliation occurs. Analysis of secretory proteins obtained from explant culture media by SDS-PAGE followed by fluorography or Western blots has revealed that the baboon oviduct synthesizes and secretes a high molecular weight glycoprotein during the follicular phase of the cycle. Immunocytochemistry demonstrated that this oviductal glycoprotein is localized to the secretory granules of epithelial secretory cells, is oviduct specific, and that following secretion the oviductal glycoprotein binds to the zona pellucida and perivitelline space of ovulated oocytes and embryos within the oviduct. Similar proteins have been characterized in other mammalian species. cDNA data show that the complete coding sequence is 2228 bp for a protein of 623 amino acids. A Genbank search showed that baboon oviductal glycoprotein has high homology to other oviductal glycoprotein sequences at both the nucleotide and amino acid levels. Studies conducted to date probing the biological function of oviductal glycoprotein indicate that this protein plays a role in prefertilization reproductive events (sperm capacitation; sperm-zona binding; zona penetration). Additional experiments are needed to reveal a specific function and mechanism for this molecule.
Pediatric Seizure Imaging

The objective of this article was to show the spectrum of magnetic resonance and computed tomographic abnormalities in the pediatric seizure patient. Seizure is a common indication for pediatric neuroimaging. Characteristic imaging findings can lead to a specific pathologic diagnosis. Imaging findings may be subtle. Clinical correlation and optimization of magnetic resonance imaging protocols are important for seizure imaging.
The mediating effect of comprehensive contingency planning on supply chain organisational flexibility

Uncertainty and disruptions often cause significant effects on businesses worldwide. As part of ever increasing efforts to combat these issues, many businesses seek to improve their organisational flexibility. This study examines three antecedents of organisational flexibility. A model was developed and then tested using survey data collected from field practitioners utilising PLS techniques. Based on the sample used, information sharing and the use of information technology both have a direct effect on organisational flexibility and are mediated by planning comprehensiveness.
Memristor Resistance Modulation for Analog Applications

The resistance modulation (RM) of TaOx-based memristors can be precisely controlled by the SET switching compliance current. After electroforming, switching occurs in a rebuilt oxide between the electroformed conductive filament and the Pt electrode. RM is independent of initial oxide thickness. The switching mechanism is postulated as dielectric breakdown at the sidewall of the conductive channel created within the rebuilt oxide: During a SET operation to a lower resistance state, the conductive channel increases in size, conducting a larger current until limited by the external compliance; during a RESET operation to a higher resistance state, the tip of the oxygen-saturated tantalum conductive channel is oxidized, reforming the rebuilt oxide. The conduction of the rebuilt oxide follows a power law function of voltage, in parallel with the modulated channel conductance. The linear resistance can be randomly programmed with accuracy and reproducibility. Analog circuits of tunable memristive low-pass and high-pass filters demonstrate frequency tuning by RM.
Range improvement of backscatter radio systems at 5.8GHz using tags with multiple antennas

This paper presents an improvement of the read range, radar cross section (RCS) and reliability of radio frequency identification (RFID) tags using multiple antennas. Measurements were performed using custom built, semi-passive RFID tags with co-planar segmented-loop antennas. Results show an increased read range as compared to RFID tag with single segmented-loop antenna.
Properties of LPC estimates on short speech segments

Linear predictive analysis/synthesis methods offer an efficient means of low bit rate encoding of speech signals. This method involves the time segmentation of the speech into regions where the spectrum is approximately stationary. The analysis/ synthesis technique is discussed as well as four methods of determining linear predictive approximations A comparison of these methods on a synthetic speech-like signal and on real speech is presented. The covariance lattice linear prediction method is shown to have some advantages over the other methods for segmenting speech into regions where the spectrum is approximately stationary.
The mechanisms and consequences of seed bank formation in wild sunflowers (Helianthus annuus)

Summary 1 Seed banks are important to many plant populations, yet we lack clear understanding of how environmental factors promote seed bank formation. We experimentally varied seed density, and soil disturbance size and timing, to examine the formation of seed banks and the resulting population dynamics in wild annual sunflowers (Helianthus annuus). Seed density treatments reflected the expected increase in seed production of individual wild sunflowers due to hybridization with Bt-transgenic crop sunflowers. Soil disturbances of two sizes (large and small) were applied either before or after seed dispersal. We followed the experimental plots for 21/2 years measuring seedling emergence, seeds in the soil, and reproduction, while preventing additional seed input. We assessed seed bank formation by the numbers of emergent seedlings and seeds in the soil. 2 Soil disturbances, regardless of timing, were required for successful germination and reproduction of wild sunflowers. Large disturbances resulted in greater seedling emergence and reproduction than small disturbances. Reproduction on small disturbance plots was low, due to low seedling survival. Higher seed density resulted in more seedlings only in large-disturbance plots. 3 Post-dispersal disturbances led to significant seed bank formation. This effect was greater for large, post-dispersal disturbances. Higher seed density increased seed bank size only in the presence of large, post-dispersal disturbances. 4 Negative density-dependence in seedling mortality and reproduction meant that there was no effect of the high seed density treatment on reproduction. Thus the positive effects of increased seed bank size on population growth were tempered by density-dependence. To assess fully the impact of seed banks on population growth, studies should continue beyond the seedling stage. 5 Our results suggest increased seed production of individual sunflowers resulting from crop transgenes would be unlikely to increase population growth on the scale of small patches. Increased seed production could result in dispersal of seeds across larger areas, and thus could lead to larger seed banks in disturbed environments and an increased prevalence of sunflowers across the landscape. These results are relevant to other annual species, especially those with transgenic crop relatives.
Patent foramen ovale: A cause of hypoxemia in patients on left ventricular support

We describe 2 patients who experienced right-to-left shunting during support with a left ventricular assist device as a result of patent foramen ovale. In the first patient, the patent foramen ovale was not found until autopsy. In the second patient, fluctuations in continuous mixed venous oxygen saturations caused us to suspect a patent foramen ovale, which was confirmed with transesophageal contrast echocardiography. We promptly repaired the defect and this patient survived. When patients on assist devices experience unexplained arterial hypoxemia, a patent foramen ovale should be considered. If a patent foramen ovale is found, surgical correction should be done early.
A necessary and sufficient condition for a product relation to be total

Abstract Let A, B, and C be sets, let ϱ be a relation on A × B, and let σ be a relation on B × C. A necessary and sufficient condition for ϱ ∘ σ to be total is provided in terms of a DeMorgan algebra defined on B.
Computational study of flow-induced vibration of a reed in a channel and effect on convective heat transfer

The flow-induced fluttering motion of a flexible reed inside a heated channel is modeled numerically and used to investigate the relationship between the aeroelastic vibration of the reed and heat-transfer enhancement. An immersed boundary method is developed to solve the coupled flow-structure-thermal problem, and the simulations show that the vibrating reed significantly increases the mean heat flux through the channel, as well as the thermal performance, quantified in terms of the thermal enhancement factor. The effect of reed material properties on vibratory dynamics and heat transfer is studied. Changes in material properties produce a rich variety of vibratory behavior, and the thermal performance is found to depend more strongly on the reed inertia than its bending stiffness. The effects of both the Reynolds number and channel confinement are examined and it is found that the thermal performance is maximized when the reed creates large modulations in the boundary layer of the channel, while at the same time avoiding the creation of strong vortices.
We Preach Christ Crucified: Rejecting the Prosperity Gospel and Responding to Feminist Criticism Using Luther's Second Theology of the Cross

: This article affirms that Luther's theology of the cross should serve as a counterpoint to ideologies like the prosperity gospel that encourage adherents to amass personal wealth while remaining indifferent to the suffering of others. To employ Luther's theology of the cross responsibly, however, one must take into consideration the feminist critique that it potentially encourages passive suffering and abuse, especially on the part of women in abusive situations who are told to ‘bear their cross’ and simply endure what they suffer. A second theology of the cross implicit in Luther's writings, one that portrays God not as the cause of suffering but as the healing power that brings life out of suffering and death that already exists, provides the basis for a rejection of the prosperity gospel while meeting (at least partially) the concern of feminist critics.
Calcium content and distribution in human cataract.

Abstract The calcium content and distribution was measured in brunescent cataracts from India and cataracts from the United States classified according to guidelines of the Cooperative Cataract Research Group (CCRG). The severity and extent of opacification correlates well with the increase in Ca 2+ bound to membranes and insoluble proteins separated by differential centrifugation. Thus, bound Ca 2+ is approximately 30 ng/mg for the immature cataract. 100 ng/mg for the pale yellow. 200 ng/mg for the mature cataract and 300 ng/mg for the brown brunescent. These values can be compared to 16 ng/mg (0·2 m m ) for a freshly excised rabbit lens. To the extent that the mature cataract represents an advanced stage and the immature cataract an early stage of development, and likewise for the brown and pale yellow cataract, results of this study suggest that cataract development is not accompanied by, or the result of, a redistribution of ‘free’ and bound calcium. We find that the fraction of total calcium bound to membranes and insoluble proteins is the same in the early and advanced stages of U.S. and Indian cataracts. It appears that as calcium accumulates in the developing cataract, an increasing amount becomes membrane or protein bound while the level of diffusible Ca 2+ continues to increase. In the advanced stage as much as 85% of the calcium in the 10 000 g supernatant is dialyzable or diffusible. The remaining 15% is bound to watersoluble proteins and represents a sixfold to 15-fold increase in the mature and brown cataract, respectively. There is also a considerable increase in the amount of calcium found in the 1000 g pellet containing insoluble proteins and membrane fragments.
Comparative Ecology of Pontoporeia Hoyi Populations in Southern Lake Michigan: The Profundal Region Versus the Slope and Shelf Regions

Abstract This study investigates Pontoporeia hoyi ecology in the profundal region (approximated by a 97-m station) of southern Lake Michigan and compares these results with previous investigations conducted in the slope and shelf regions of the lake. Pontoporeia typically attains its maximum abundance in the slope region, suggesting that this region of the lake is the most favorable for amphipod growth and survival. Profundal and slope P. hoyi exhibited little seasonal variation in mean size while shelf-region populations exhibited strong seasonal variation in mean size. Deepwater sculpins, a major predator on profundal populations of P. hoyi , selectively consumed the largest amphipods: mean size consumed was 6–7 mm. The relative sparsity of larger (> 5 mm) P. hoyi in the profundal, slope, and shelf-regions of the lake may arise from intense size-selective fish predation on this size class of amphipods. Gut content studies revealed that profundal P. hoyi populations feed intermittently. Such feeding behavior was subtly different from that previously observed for slope P. hoyi populations: profundal populations feed more continuously but less intensively than slope populations. Regional differences in feeding behavior may be related to differences in food regime and to predation avoidance strategies. Pontoporeia hoyi apparently is capable of inhabiting a broad range of depth regimes by modifying its physiology (reproductive cycles, generation time) and behavior (feeding, motility) to adjust to spatial variations in temperature, food level, and predation.
A quadratically convergent global algorithm for the linearly-constrained minimum cross-entropy problem

Abstract In this paper, we propose a curved-search algorithm for solving the cross-entropy minimization problem with linear equality constrains. The proposed algorithm converges globally to a dual optimal solution with a quadratic rate of convergence. A dual-to-primal conversion formula is provided. We also analyze the computational effort required for the algorithm and report our computational experience.
Protonated sapphyrins. Highly effective phosphate receptors

The phosphate anion chelation properties of several sapphyrin derivatives, namely 3,12,13,22-tetraethyl-8,17-bis[bis(hydroxyethyl)amino)carbonylethyl]-2,7,18,23-tetramethylsapphyrin (1), 3,12,13,22-tetraethyl-2,7,18,23-tetramethyl-8,17-bis(hydroxypropyl)sapphyrin (2), and 3,8,12,13,17,22-hexaethyl-2,7,18,23-tetramethylsapphyrin (3) are reported. X-ray diffraction studies of the dihydroxylated and decaalkyl derivatives 2 and 3 reveal that the diprotonated forms of sapphyrin are capable of stabilizing 1:2 inner-sphere complexes with phosphate-derived monoanions, such as diphenyl phosphate and monobasic phenyl phosphate. Similar analyses reveal that the diprotonated form of dihydroxysapphyrin 2 is capable of forming a 1:1 chelate complex in the solid state with either mono- or dibasic phosphoric acid. Solution-phase studies, involving 1H and 31P NMR spectroscopy, confirm that these same sapphyrins are capable of binding phosphate anions in organic solution, a conclusion that is supported by qualitative fast ...
Beyond generalized anxiety disorder: Psychometric properties of the GAD-7 in a heterogeneous psychiatric sample

Abstract Background Although developed as a screener for Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) in primary care, the GAD-7 is now commonly used as a measure of general anxiety symptoms across various settings and populations. However, little is known about its psychometric properties when used in such heterogeneous samples. We examined the internal consistency, convergent validity, sensitivity and specificity, sensitivity to change, and structure of the GAD-7 in patients receiving brief, intensive CBT treatment in a partial hospital setting. We also examined the properties of a modified version that assessed symptoms over the past 24-h. Methods Participants (n = 1082) completed the GAD-7 upon admission and discharge from a partial hospital program. They also completed measures of worry, depression, and well being and a structured diagnostic interview. We examined psychometric properties in the total sample and separately for patients with GAD, post-traumatic stress disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD), and panic disorder. Results Internal consistency and convergent validity were good for the total sample and each anxiety disorder group. The GAD-7 demonstrated poor specificity and a high false positive rate for all anxiety disorders. Sensitivity to change was generally good. Factor analysis revealed that a one-factor structure did not fit the data well. The 24-h version performed similarly to the original version. Conclusions The GAD-7 performed well as a measure of anxiety symptom severity, but not as a screener in this psychiatric sample. It is a useful outcome measure for hetereogenous samples, but it may not perform as well specifically for individuals with SAD. A modified version of the GAD-7 that assessed anxiety symptoms over the past 24-h appears to be a reliable and valid modification.
Sex differences in the determination of abdominal leak point pressure in patients with intrinsic sphincter deficiency

AbstractPurpose: We determined the effect of a urethral catheter on abdominal leak point pressure in men and women with intrinsic sphincter deficiency.Materials and Methods: A total of 21 consecutive men treated with prostatectomy and 19 women with intrinsic sphincter deficiency underwent abdominal leak point pressure measurements with a rectal catheter before and after removal of a 10F urethral catheter.Results: Of the 19 women 2 had leakage only when the urethral catheter was removed, while 17 had excellent correlation between abdominal leak point pressures before and after catheter removal (r = 0.83). In contrast, 10 of 21 men had leakage only when the urethral catheter was removed and 11 had weak correlation between abdominal leak point pressures before and after catheter removal (r = 0.46).Conclusions: An indwelling 10F urethral catheter is much more likely to invalidate abdominal leak point pressure measurement in men than in women with intrinsic sphincter deficiency.
Sampling methods for pharmacokinetic studies in the mouse

Abstract Pharmacokinetics data on 2,4,5-T are used to illustrate design considerations, agent administration and sampling techniques required for single-animal studies in mice. Detailed methods for intravenous and intragastric delivery of chemicals are described, as are small volume (3 μl) blood sampling techniques from tail vein and orbital plexus. A mouse metabolism cage is described that prohibits feed contamination of urine and feces, and also effectively segregates these elimination products. Techniques for blood, urine, and feces sample preparation and quality control assessments are also presented. Multi-sample blood concentration-time curves obtained from a single mouse are compared to data obtained using a single-sample design using many mice. While a single-animal, multiple-sample design requires the availability of microanalytical methods, it has many economic and practical advantages and results in a more accurate pharmacokinetic profile of the chemical in mice.
A Practical Comparison Between Thesaurus and Ontology Techniques As a Basis for Search Improvement

ABSTRACT To compare the capabilities of a thesaurus and an ontology, we explored a number of differences between them, employing two specific examples: the National Agricultural Library Thesaurus (NALT) and a crop-pest ontology. For each, we compared the richness of representation of domain knowledge and the capacity for reasoning that could potentially lead to improved ability to retrieve documents, including agricultural publications. Fundamental differences of domain knowledge representation between them were then identified: Formality of language in the crop-pest ontology, logical consistency of concepts and relationships in the crop-pest ontology, and ambiguity of relationships among terms in the NALT. Relationships such as broader term (BT) and narrower term (NT) in the NALT could support a capacity for reasoning based on generalization and specialization, assuming the relationships themselves are valid. However, the crop-pest ontology supports the deduction of conclusions based on domain knowledge ...
Corrigendum to ''Toucan and hornbill beaks: A comparative study" (Acta Biomater. 6 (2010) 331-343)

1742-7061/$ - see front matter 2009 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.doi:10.1016/j.actbio.2010.01.021DOI of original article: 10.1016/j.actbio.2009.08.026* Corresponding author. Address: Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of California, San Diego,9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093-0411, USA. Tel.: +1 858 534 4719; fax: +1 858 534 5698.E-mail address: mameyers@ucsd.edu (M.A. Meyers).Acta Biomaterialia 6 (2010) 2363
Selective population inversion in NMR.

Population inversion of a selected region of a spectrum is a concept which has wide application in both NMR spectroscopy and imaging. While inversion of population at any one frequency is a trivial matter, ensuring an accurate inversion over a specified bandwidth, with negligible perturbation of the magnetization outside that bandwidth, is a major problem. However, by using as a driving function a complex radiofrequency (r.f.) pulse with an envelope of the form (sech beta t)1+5i where 1/beta is the temporal width and t is time, we have found that above a critical r.f. power threshold, magnetization is accurately inverted over a very sharply defined bandwidth, while outside that region, magnetization is returned to its initial position, and population is unaffected. Within the broad limits imposed by our equipment, we have also discovered that the phenomenon is independent of the incident r.f. power.
Guaranteed ultimate boundedness for a class of uncertain linear dynamical systems

We consider a class of linear dynamical systems with uncertainty in the system matrix, input matrix, input, and state measurement. Based solely on the knowledge of the uncertainty bounds, we give a measured state feedback control that guarantees uniform boundedness and ultimate boundedness in a certain neighborhood of the zero state.
Career advancement and gender equity in healthcare management

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to analyze the conditions for career advancement in healthcare management and examine factors that may be impeding gender equity.Design/methodology/approach – The authors assess gender differences in the odds of being promoted to senior management by: analyzing the relative impact of individual, organizational and family level variables in accounting for gender inequity; examining gender differences in experiences of perceived gender discrimination and sexual harassment, as well as attitudes regarding gender equity in senior management; and by exploring gender differences in aspirations for senior management. ANOVA, χ2 and logistic regression were used to analyze data from 685 respondents to the 2006 Gender and Careers in Healthcare Management Survey.Findings – Women were significantly less likely to be promoted to senior management, even after controlling for individual, organizational and family level characteristics. One third of women healthcare managers in our s...
The Future of Chinese Fashion

AbstractSince China overtook Japan as the world's number two economy, all eyes have turned east. If history is any predictor, China will lead world fashion in the foreseeable future. The authors discuss China's fashion history as determined by its past economic policies. Three aspects of China's fashion future are explored: production, consumption, and innovation. Rising labor costs are causing coastal production to move inland or to lower-wage countries. The growing middle class is experiencing increased purchasing power, which both Chinese and international brands seek to attract. China has a variety of retail formats, ranging from knock-off markets to supersized malls to trendy outdoor shopping villages. China is aiming to capture a larger share of apparel profits through innovation. Currently Chinese consumers in the luxury sector prefer well-known global brands such as Louis Vuitton, but the authors predict a native Chinese designer will emerge on the international scene in the future.
An activity-based cost management system

Abstract Technological advances in manufacturing industries have changed the processes involved in producing end-products, the elements within the processes, the end-products themselves, and, in turn, the management and control of these processes. Much of what was performed by direct labor is now performed by automated machinery with the aid of computers. Thus, the contribution of direct labor is diminishing while that of indirect labor is steadily increasing. Also, nonvalue-added process activities are being identified and eleminated to streamline processes; products are being designed for manufacturability and maintainability, organizational lines are fading as more work is being performed by cross-functional teams; and management schemes are having to adapt to enable effective control in this new manufacturing environment. Cost and performance information which reflect the actual nature of operations are vital for effective management in these high-tech environments, and information is needed to facilitate continuous process improvement, effective product costing, and proactive cost estemating. such information must be detailed enough to support operational decisions regarding process improvement initiatives. This paper present a model of a computerized cost management information system in such an environment. This system relates cost and performance information to the individual activity level and associates activities with the processes by which goods and services are designed,procured, produced, delivered and supported. In this paper,we also discuss various analysis and design issues associated with the development of this activity-based cost information system.
Totalsynthese von Vancomycin

Die Feinabstimmung von Schutzgruppen und Glycosidierungsbedingungen war der Schlussel zur erfolgreichen Kupplung der Kohlenhydrateinheiten mit dem Aglycon als letzter Schritt der Totalsynthese von Vancomycin 1. Das Aglycon wurde in einen geeignet geschutzten Acceptor uberfuhrt, der dann schrittweise mit den Zuckerdonoren verknupft wurde. Abspalten aller Schutzgruppen lieferte synthetisches Vancomycin, dessen Identitat mit dem Naturstoff bestatigt wurde (1H- und 13C-NMR, HPLC).
Effects of Intrathecal Injection of Diatrizoate on Dopamine Receptors

Abstract Rationale and Objectives The authors performed this study to determine whether adverse reactions similar to those that occur in patients receiving antipsychotic medication may occur after inadvertent intrathecal injections of some contrast material. Materials and Methods Recombinant human dopamine-2 (D-2) receptors were incubated together with tritiated (hydrogen 3) spiperone, a D-2 receptor agonist commonly used in binding studies, and three types of contrast material (sodium/meglumine diatrizoate; meglumine iothalamate; and iohexol) in different concentrations to determine competitive binding potentials. Nonspecific binding was also assessed. Membranes were washed, filtered, and counted in a scintillation counter. Results At several different concentrations, diatrizoate demonstrated a potential to displace the binding of spiperone to the D-2 receptors, whereas the other two contrast materials tested (iothalamate meglumine and iohexol) showed only weak binding potentials. Conclusion Diatrizoate, which has been incriminated in most adverse reactions resulting from the inadvertent intrathecal injection of a contrast material, may produce symptoms similar to those of the neuroleptic malignant syndrome by blocking neurotransmission through dopamine receptors. Although antipsychotic drugs produce this parkinsonism-like effect only after prolonged use, it is probable that diatrizoate produces the effect immediately by virtue of the high concentrations that may accumulate at the base of the brain after myelography. Also worthy of note is the fact that the two other contrast materials that have produced a number of reported adverse reactions share a molecular similarity to diatrizoate that is not found with other contrast materials.