cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of cell death by lens‐specific overexpression of bcl‐2 in transgenic mice

Previous studies on cell cycle regulation in the ocular lens using transgenic mice have shown that inactivation of the retinoblastoma tumor suppressor protein (pRb) can cause postmitotic lens fiber cells to enter the cell cycle. However, when the p53 gene and protein are intact, inactivation of pRb in this terminally differentiated cell type results in cell death, rather than continued proliferation. Since bcl-2 has been shown to act as a cell death repressor, the ability of this gene to block p53-dependent apoptosis in lenses was examined. Transgenic mice were generated that overexpress bcl-2 in a lens-specific fashion. Surprisingly, overexpression of bcl-2 was sufficient to interfere with normal fiber cell differentiation, inducing cataracts, microphakia, vacuolization, fiber cell disorganization, and inhibition of fiber cell denucleation. The bcl-2 mice were mated to mice exhibiting lens-specific expression of the N-terminal region of simian virus 40 large T antigen (termed truncT). The resulting double transgenic mice showed a marked reduction in the truncT-induced fiber cell death. Apoptosis in the truncT mice could also be suppressed by crossing these mice into a p53-deficient background. Either overexpression of bcl-2 or loss of p53 in truncT mice resulted in proliferation of fiber cells around the cortex of the lens. These proliferating fiber cells continue to express beta- and gamma-crystallin proteins, which are normally only expressed following withdrawal from the cell cycle. The p53 protein is known to upregulate expression of certain target genes, including p21, a protein that can block cell cycle progression by inhibition of cyclin-dependent kinases. In order to assess whether bcl-2 interferes with the transcriptional activation activity of p53, transgenic lenses were assayed by in situ hybridization for levels of p21 expression. Lenses that expressed both truncT and bcl-2 showed elevated p21, implying that bcl-2 does not inhibit apoptosis by directly inhibiting p53, but instead may block a later step in the apoptosis pathway. In addition, overexpression of p21 is not sufficient to cause apoptosis. These experiments show that the lenses of transgenic mice represent a valuable in vivo setting for studies of both induction and inhibition of programmed cell death.
The investigation of the apparent thermochromism of some vanadium(III) complexes

Abstract Several crystalline octahedral vanadium(III) complexes of the general type (C2H5)4NVBr4−x Clx·2CH3CN where x = 0–4 were prepared and investigated. The color of the complexes changes gradually from yellow for the (C2H5)4NVCl·2CH3CN complex to red-brown for the (C2H5)4NVBr4·2CH3CN complex. All the complexes have the unusual property of being yellow at 77°K. An investigation was made of the magnetic properties, visible and u.v. spectra, i.r. spectra, and nuclear quadrupole resonance spectra of some of the complexes in an attempt to explain the color change.
Bibliography of ball lightning reports

Abstract A comprehensive bibliography of ball lightning reports and references is available upon request. The references, over 1100 in number, were accumulated from sources published within the last several hundred years.
Putative N-acylphosphatidylethanolamine synthase from Arabidopsis thaliana is a lysoglycerophospholipid acyltransferase.

AT1G78690, a gene found in Arabidopsis thaliana, has been reported to encode a N-acyltransferase that transfers an acyl chain from acyl-CoA to the headgroup of phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) to form N-acylphosphatidylethanolamine (N-acyl-PE). Our investigation suggests that At1g78690p is not a PE-dependent N-acyltransferase but is instead a lysoglycerophospholipid O-acyltransferase. We overexpressed AT1G78690 in Escherichia coli, extracted the cellular lipids, and identified the accumulating glycerophospholipid as acylphosphatidylglycerol (acyl-PG). Electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) analysis yielded [M − H]− ions, corresponding by exact mass to acyl-PG rather than N-acyl-PE. Collision-induced dissociation mass spectrometry (MS/MS) yielded product ions consistent with acyl-PG. In addition, in vitro enzyme assays using both 32P- and 14C-radiolabeled substrates showed that AT1G78690 acylates 1-acyllysophosphatidylethanolamine (1-acyllyso-PE) and 1-acyllysophosphatidylglycerol (1-acyllyso-PG), but not PE or phosphatidylglycerol (PG), to form a diacylated product that co-migrates with PE and PG, respectively. We analyzed the diacylated product formed by AT1G78690 using a combination of base hydrolysis, phospholipase D treatment, ESI-MS, and MS/MS to show that AT1G78690 acylates the sn-2-position of 1-acyllyso-PE and 1-acyllyso-PG.
Interpersonal Features of Interviews Between Psychiatric Patients and Nursing Staff1

Observer ratings of one-half hour interviews were undertaken to test two basic concepts of interpersonal relations in a sample of 51 randomly paired male psychiatric patients and female psychiatric nurses. It was hypothesized that the behavior of psychiatric patients could be organized around two orthogonal dimensions reflecting status and feeling, and that patients and nurses would exhibit complementary interpersonal behavior consistent with their institutionally ascribed roles. Interviews were rated with the Leary Interpersonal Checklist. Interjudge reliability was established for Leary's coding system. The hypothesis of status and feeling reference points for patient behavior received strong support when the results of analysis of variance were supplemented by factor analysis. Patient scores on the eight variables measured by the Leary Interperonsal Checklist and nurses' scores for 17 complementary variables were submitted to correlational analysis to test the hypothesis of interpersonal complementarity. As predicted, two hypothesized dependence-assistance response combinations provided the highest correlation coefficients. It was concluded that the study provided empirical support for the utility of an interpersonal model within psychiatric settings that has more commonly been identified with relationships free of psychiatric disturbance.
Post-mastectomy radiation in large node-negative breast tumors: Does size really matter?

Treatment decisions regarding local control can be particularly challenging for T3N0 breast tumors because of difficulty in estimating rates of local failure after mastectomy. Reports in the literature detailing the rates of local failure vary widely, likely owing to the uncommon incidence of this clinical situation. The literature regarding this clinical scenario is reviewed, including recent reports that specifically address the issue of local failure rates after mastectomy in the absence of radiation for large node-negative breast tumors.
CcpC, a novel regulator of the LysR family required for glucose repression of the citB gene in Bacillus subtilis.

Abstract Synergistic carbon catabolite repression of the Bacillus subtilis aconitase ( citB ) gene by glucose and a source of 2-ketoglutarate is dependent on DNA sequences located upstream of the gene. Mutations in a dyad symmetry element centered at position −66 and in a repeat of the downstream arm of the dyad symmetry at position −27 cause derepressed citB expression. In this work, a protein able to bind to a DNA fragment containing these elements was purified and identified. This protein, named CcpC ( C atabolite c ontrol p rotein C ), shares sequence similarity with members of the LysR family of transcriptional regulators. In addition to binding to the citB promoter, CcpC bound to the promoter of the citZ gene, which encodes the cell’s major citrate synthase and is subject to carbon catabolite repression. In a ccpC null mutant, expression of both citB and citZ was derepressed in glucose-glutamine minimal medium, indicating that CcpC is a negative regulator of citB and citZ gene expression. DNase I footprinting experiments showed that CcpC binds to two sites within the citB promoter region, corresponding to the dyad symmetry and −27 elements. In the presence of citrate, a putative inducer, only the dyad symmetry element was fully protected by CcpC. When the dyad symmetry element was mutated, CcpC was no longer able to bind to either the dyad symmetry or −27 elements. Repression of citB and citZ gene expression during anaerobiosis also proved to be mediated by CcpC.
Carcinogen induced DNA damage in isolated rat liver nuclei

Alkali-labile DNA lesions were detected by a hydroxylapatite batch assay following incubation of isolated rat liver nuclei with direct and indirect-acting alkylating agents. N-Methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG) (20-200 microM) produced a steep, concentration-related decrease in double stranded DNA. In contrast, only minimal effects on DNA integrity were observed with methylmethane sulfonate (200 microM). The bifunctional alkylating agent, mechlorethamine produced an apparent increase in double-stranded DNA in accord with its ability to induce interstrand DNA crosslinks. The indirect-acting alkylating agent, dimethylnitrosamine (DMN) induced DNA damage only when an NADPH generating system was included in the incubation mixture. These results suggest that isolated rat liver nuclei may be a useful model for studying the effects of mutagenic and carcinogenic chemicals on the integrity of chromosomal DNA.
Simple Binary Collision Model for Van Hove's G s ( r , t )

It is noted that the Van Hove self-correlation function ${G}_{s}(r, t)$ for a dilute fluid is determined by a linearized Boltzmann equation identical to that occuring in the theory of neutron diffusion. A simple model for the collision integral, in which a molecule emerges from a collision with a Maxwellian distribution, allows some interesting analytic results to be obtained. The double Fourier transform ${S}_{s}(\ensuremath{\kappa}, \ensuremath{\omega})$, of ${G}_{s}(r, t)$ is expressible in terms of the probability integral for complex arguments. Since ${S}_{s}(\ensuremath{\kappa}, \ensuremath{\omega})$ is directly proportional to the M\"ossbauer line shape, the transition of the line shape from Doppler broadening to simple diffusion broadening is explicitly exhibited as a function of momentum transfer. The spatial moments of ${G}_{s}(r, t)$ are calculated as a function of time. The model used gives the same mean-square displacement as does the Langevin equation. The resulting ${G}_{s}(r, t)$ is not, however, Gaussian as is shown by the mean fourth power of the displacement which is 25% greater at intermediate times than would be predicted by the Langevin equation. The non-Gaussian effects lead to an appreciable narrowing of ${S}_{s}(\ensuremath{\kappa}, \ensuremath{\omega})$ for intermediate values of $\ensuremath{\kappa}$.
Current approaches to the treatment of Candida albicans infections

Candida albicans infections, once considered rare, are increasing in occurrence. This increase is due to the greater number of immunocompromised people undergoing cancer therapies or infected with HIV. Currently, candidal infections are typically treated with either azole or polyene antifungal agents, although with the increased occurrence of C. albicans infections, there have also been reports of resistance to these agents. While the latest generation of azoles has remained effective, these drugs often have unpleasant side effects. The development of antifungal resistance and the side effects of new generation azoles have created a demand for new antifungal treatments. In response to this, over 200 patents have been filed in the past few years. These new agents include antifungal proteins and combinations of new and previously existing drugs.
ST Segment Elevation Differs Depending on the Method of Measurement

Objectives:The literature seldom specifies the location or method of measurement of ST segment elevation (STE) for determining eligibility in reperfusion trials. The objective of this study was to assess if different methods of measurement of STE in precordial leads of patients with anterior acute myocardial infarction due to left anterior descending occlusion result in significantly different scores. Methods:This was a retrospective review of diagnostic electrocardiograms (ECGs) of consecutive patients presenting to our emergency department with acute myocardial infarction who had emergent primary percutaneous coronary intervention, left anterior descending occlusion, and no bundle branch block. STE was measured at the J point and at 60 milliseconds after the J point, relative to the PR segment, in leads V1–V6. STE by the two methods was compared for each lead, as were ST scores (sum of STE in leads V1–V6) and the sum of the STE in V2–V4. Eligibility for reperfusion therapy using 1-mm and 2-mm STE criteria in two consecutive anterior leads, as well as ST scores and the sum of the STE in V2–V4, were evaluated. Results:Thirty-seven ECGs were analyzed. Mean ST measurements in every lead were significantly lower when measured at the J point versus 60 milliseconds after the J point, as were ST scores (9.7 ± 2.14 mm vs. 14.9 ± 2.69 mm; p < 0.00001). Fewer ECGs met enrollment criteria when based on STE at the J point versus at 60 milliseconds after the J point. Fewer ECGs met an ST score of 6 mm when measured at the J point (70% vs. 88%). Conclusions:In anterior STE myocardial infarction, STE measurements produce different results depending on the method of measurement. Future clinical trials should specify the method of measurement.
MULTIDIMENSIONAL PORTFOLIO OPTIMIZATION WITH PROPORTIONAL TRANSACTION COSTS

We provide a computational study of the problem of optimally allocating wealth among multiple stocks and a bank account, to maximize the infinite horizon discounted utility of consumption. We consider the situation where the transfer of wealth from one asset to another involves transaction costs that are proportional to the amount of wealth transferred. Our model allows for correlation between the price processes, which in turn gives rise to interesting hedging strategies. This results in a stochastic control problem with both drift-rate and singular controls, which can be recast as a free boundary problem in partial differential equations. Adapting the finite element method and using an iterative procedure that converts the free boundary problem into a sequence of fixed boundary problems, we provide an efficient numerical method for solving this problem. We present computational results that describe the impact of volatility, risk aversion of the investor, level of transaction costs, and correlation among the risky assets on the structure of the optimal policy. Finally we suggest and quantify some heuristic approximations.
High latitude currents in the 0600 to 0900 MLT sector: Observations from Viking and DMSP‐F7

High-resolution magnetic field and charged-particle data acquired on March 25, 1986 by the Viking and DMSP-F7 satellites, as they traversed the dawn sector auroral zone on nearly antiparallel trajectories within 40 min of each oher, are analyzed. Magnetic field measurements by Viking at 0850 MLT and by DMSP at 0630 MLT indicate the presence of a large-scale earthward-directed region 1 Birkeland current and an upward-flowing region 2 current. Both satellites also observed a third Birkeland current adjacent to and poleward of the region 1 system with opposite flow. This poleward system is about 0.5 deg invariant latitude wide and has a current density comparable to the region 1 and 2 systems. The highest-latitude current is identified as region 0. Its charged-particle signatures were used to infer field line mapping to the equatorial plane.
The importance of recognizing secondary carnitine deficiency in organic acidaemias: case report in glutaric acidaemia type II.

Secondary carnitine deficiency in a patient with glutaric acidaemia type II, due to deficient ETF-dehydrogenase activity, is described. The patient responded clinically to a pharmacological dose of riboflavin and a restricted protein diet. In the second year of her life she developed more frequent and severe exacerbations during intercurrent infections from which she did not fully recover. Hypotonia and marked ataxia persisted. Plasma carnitine was entirely complexed as acylcarnitine with no free carnitine detected. Retrospective evaluation of several frozen urine specimens obtained since the age of 10 months revealed undetectable free carnitine with elevated acylcarnitine levels. Marked clinical improvement was observed followingL-carnitine supplementation. The hypotonia and ataxia disappeared. The frequency and the severity of the exacerbations were noticeably decreased. The role ofL-carnitine in preventing the accumulation of acyl-CoA compounds in inborn errors of organic acid metabolism is further emphasized by this patient. The necessity to evaluate free carnitine, acylcarnitine and acyl/free ratio in the assessment, follow-up and management of patients with inborn errors of organic acid metabolism is discussed.
Public Understanding of Science in Pacific Northwest Salmon Recovery Policy

ABSTRACT In the arena of salmon recovery policy, stakeholders often propose that science should guide policy, frame their positions in scientific terms, and construct scientific arguments to support their positions. However, there are also appeals to involve citizens more thoroughly in policymaking. An important step in bringing science and citizens together is to investigate how citizens understand the processes, actors, institutions, and knowledge of science. Discourse analysis of the testimony of 51 nonscientist stakeholders to Congressional committees between 1998 and 2000 revealed that 14 used discourses of science. These understandings related to scientific process, scientific knowledge, and scientists as policy actors. Individual citizens employed multiple culturally available discourses based on a traditional, authoritative understanding of science to support their own positions, while others' views were invalidated based on a skeptical-realist understanding. Findings provide mixed comfort for pol...
Cellulase Secretion from a Hypercellulolytic Mutant of Trichoderma Reesei Rut-C30

Two strains of Trichoderma reesei, wild type QM6a and mutant Rut-C30, were grown in meida containing an inducer, insoluble crystalline cellulose (Avicel PH101), as carbon source for 11 days. The cell growth, expressed as myceliar protein content, of Rut-C30 was 4–5 times higher than QM6a. The lack of ultrastructural disorganization, and absence of intracellular enzyme release into the growth medium, indicated that none of these two strains had undergone any significant autolysis during the entire growth phase. Cellulase activities, mainly endoglucanase, cellobiase and filter paper degrading activity (disc) were enhanced in Rut-C30 cells. A major change was observed in the endoglucanase activity which was 30 times higher in Rut-C30 than QM6a, whereas, both β-glucosidase and disc activities were 3 times enhanced in Rut-C30 compared to QM6a. In addition to synthesis, cellulase secretion was also enhanced in Rut-C30. Both the organisms contained same amounts of intracellular marker enzyme activities (e.g., inosine diphosphatase, thiamine pyrophosphatase, alkaline phosphatase). Finally, the enahncement of secretory activity of Rut-C30 was correlated with the proliferation of rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER) and increased phospholipid content. It appears that Rut-C30 is not only a hypercellulolytic but also a hypersecretor mutant.
Human cDNA expression arrays in normal and malignant monocytes

Abstract New technologies have recently become available with complementary DNA (cDNA) microarrays, which allow simultaneous analysis of multiple cell gene expression. In hematological malignancies few data have been reported so far. We decided to investigate the usefulness of this challenging methodology in combination with immunomagnetic cell separation techniques. For that purpose, we performed a series of consecutive microarrays on different cell populations. Our samples consisted of monocytes from healthy donors, AMML and CMML patients. As reference we used cells from the KBM3 monocytic leukemia cell line. Cell separations based both on negative and positive selection were tested, in order to verify possibility of gene activation or suppression elicited by the interaction of monoclonal antibodies and surface antigens. After density gradient-based mononuclear cell enrichment, CD14+ cells were sorted using the MACS recommended procedures. FACS analysis was performed on separation products to test the purity of monocytic populations. Both mRNA and total RNA were tested for some of the samples, 32 P-radiolabeled cDNA was synthesized and hybridized to Atlas Human cDNA expression array (Clontech) encompassing 588 selected genes. We were able to identify some major recurrent differences between normal and CMML monocytes. Results obtained with mRNA and total RNA were comparable. Negatively-isolated CMML monocytes showed an overexpression of chemokine genes such as migration inhibitory factor-related proteins 8 (MRP8) and 14 (MRP14) and a downregulation of the interleukin-13 (IL-13) precursor gene. Interestingly, low level of expression of some of these genes appears to be upregulated by positive selection performed by CD14-conjugated microbeads in normal monocytes, while no changes were observed in negatively selected monocytes. While human cDNA expression arrays seem to represent a reliable tool for the study of gene expression profiles, we experience some variability between different patients. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that cell separation methodology has an impact in the expression of certain genes and must be taken into consideration. Besides a statistical evaluation of the results, strict controls are always recommended.
Perceptions about Environmental Use and Future Restoration of an Urban Estuary

Recent interest in restoring urban ecosystems has engendered studies on public perceptions of these ecosystems and future land use. This paper examines the perceptions of people using the waterfront area of the New York/New Jersey harbour estuary about their use of the area, and how this environment could be improved. Pollution was viewed as the most important problem in New Jersey, and removing pollution was rated the most important way to improve the waterfront habitat. Using the remaining undeveloped area for natural habitat and to improve quality of life were rated as the most important uses of the waterfront. People valued the waterfront for walking, providing open green space, and as a place to commune with nature without people. Management options people favoured were removing pollution and cleaning up rubbish and adding educational signs and information brochures about the remaining, natural habitat. Age, income and education influenced which activities people said they undertook. For improvements...
Using students’ drawings to elicit general and special educators’ perceptions of co-teaching

Abstract This paper describes the findings of a study of general and special educators’ perceptions of co-teaching in elementary and middle school classrooms. A total of 85 students, 20 general education, and 11 special education teachers participated in this investigation in which student drawings were used as both data and as tools to spark teacher reflection. Students’ pictorial depictions of co-teaching were analyzed for apparent features and traits. Co-teachers’ reactions to the drawings were springboards for reflective conversations around modifications they felt needed to take place to improve co-teaching. Findings suggest that proactive role distribution, support structures, and trust building are critical factors in strengthening co-teaching. Implications for practice are discussed.
An Inhibitor of ADAMs (a Distintegrin and Metalloproteinase) Overcomes HER3-Mediated Resistance to Trastuzumab and Lapatinib.

Background: Inhibitors of HER-2/neu and EGF receptors such as trastuzumab, lapatinib, and erlotinib have demonstrated clinical efficacy but not all HER-2/neu or EGFR positive tumors respond and many that initially respond develop resistance. Ligand mediated HER-3 signaling results in tumor growth and survival and is a proposed mechanism of resistance to trastuzumab and lapatinib. Proteolytic cleavage of both ErbB ligands and receptors has been shown to be a critical event that results in ErbB pathway activation. Cleavage is necessary for the generation of soluble, functionally active forms of ErbB ligands and in the case of HER-2/neu, cleavage results in a shed extracellular domain (ECD) and a membrane bound fragment (p95) that contains a kinase domain with significant constitutive activity. In addition, it has been shown that the preferential association between HER3 and p95 can further activate the pathway. Both ErbB ligand and HER-2/neu cleavage are mediated by the ADAM family of proteases. Further, we have previously shown that the ADAM protease inhibitor, INCB7839, provides synergistic inhibition of HER2 + breast cancer cell line growth when combined with either trastuzumab or lapatinib. Materials and Methods: The HER-2 overexpressing BT-474 human breast cancer cell line was treated with either lapatinib or trastuzumab in the presence or absence of the HER-3 ligand, heregulin, and the effects on cell growth measured. The effects of the ADAM protease inhibitor INCB7839 in this system were also examined. Results: The addition of heregulin overcame the anti-proliferative effects of both lapatinib and trastuzumab on the growth of the BT-474 cell line in vitro. Addition of INCB7839 synergized with lapatinib or trastuzumab and importantly, restored the anti-proliferative effects of these agents in the presence of heregulin. Further, pretreatment of BT-474 cells with INCB7839 for 6 days, which we have previously shown completely eliminates the presence of the p95 form of HER2, amplified these effects, presumably by eliminating p95 before stimulating the cells with heregulin. Discussion: Together, these results confirm that heregulin can overcome the anti-proliferative effects of both trastuzumab and lapatinib as previously reported. Prevention of p95 formation by ADAM protease inhibitors appears to restore the anti-proliferative effects of both trastuzumab and lapatinib when heregulin/HER3 signaling occurs, negating a proposed mechanism of resistance to these agents in the clinic. These results suggest that combining an ADAM inhibitor with targeted inhibitors of the ErbB family can overcome HER-3-mediated resistance and enhance the clinical efficacy of approved HER2-targeted agents in the clinical setting. INCB7839 is currently under clinical investigation in combination with trastuzumab for women with metastatic breast cancer. Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(24 Suppl):Abstract nr 3138.
Lipoid proteinosis: ultrastructural and biochemical studies.

Lipoid proteinosis, a rare autosomal recessive disease, is histologically characterized by deposition of hyalinlike material in the dermis. In this study the pathologic processes of lipoid proteinosis were evaluated by ultrastructural and biochemical analysis of skin and cultured fibroblasts from a patient with classic features of the disease. Transmission electron microscopy revealed the presence of hyalinlike material with a granular appearance interspersed between collagen fibers. Immediately surrounding the blood vessel walls, there was reduplication of basal laminae in an "onionskin" arrangement. The fibroblastic cells in the affected dermis contained peculiar cytoplasmic inclusions. Biochemical studies with the cultured fibroblasts showed that the total synthesis of extracellular matrix components, as detected by the synthesis of radioactive hydroxyproline or the incorporation of 35 SO 4 2- and [ 3 H]glucosamine into macromolecules, was not altered in lipoid proteinosis. However, the relative expression of type I and type III procollagen genes, as detected by molecular hybridizations with pro-α1(I) and pro-α1(III) procollagen complementary deoxyribonucleic acid probes, was markedly altered in cultured fibroblasts. Specifically, the type I procollagen messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) levels were significantly reduced, resulting in a decreased type I/III procollagen mRNA ratio. Furthermore, the replicative capacity of lipoid proteinosis fibroblasts, as detected by the incorporation of radioactive thymidine, was reduced. Thus the skin fibroblasts from lipoid proteinosis demonstrate ultrastructural changes, as well as alterations in their phenotypic characteristics, and these changes may have relevance to the pathologic processes of this systemic disease affecting the skin and other organs.
The value of angiography in the follow-up of coronary involvement in mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome (Kawasaki disease).

From September 1976 to August 1988, 205 patients with mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome (Kawasaki disease) were evaluated; 29 were suspected of having coronary artery abnormalities because of either abnormalities on echocardiography (n = 21), congestive heart failure (n = 3), prolonged fever (n = 3) or cardiac arrest (n = 2). All 29 underwent cardiac catheterization and 22 were found to have coronary artery abnormalities. An additional 4 patients were diagnosed solely by autopsy; therefore, 26 patients (12%) in this series had coronary artery abnormalities. The clearance of contrast medium from the coronary arteries after aortography was significantly prolonged in patients with coronary artery aneurysms as compared with that in a control group (p < 0.001). All patients exhibited delayed clearance of contrast medium on the initial aortogram as compared with that on follow-up studies (p < 0.01). Of the 22 patients with angiographically documented coronary artery abnormalities, 19 had right and 20 had left coronary artery involvement; the majority had diffuse involvement of both vessels. In 15 patients who underwent follow-up catheterization 6 months to 7 years after initial study, complete resolution was observed in only 37% of affected coronary artery segments. In four patients, three of whom were asymptomatic, severely stenotic or occluded coronary artery segments were found on late catheterization. Coronary artery bypass surgery was performed in two of these patients. Echocardiography did not detect any of these stenoses. Although echocardiography is important for initial diagnosis and serial evaluation, angiography is essential to fully define the nature and extent of coronary artery lesions, particularly if stenosis is present.
Characterization of a group I intron in the nuclear rDNA differentiating Phialophora gregata f. sp. adzukicola from P. gregata f. sp. sojae

An insertion sequence was detected near the 3′ end of the nuclear small subunit rDNA in isolates ofPhialophora gregata f. sp.adzukicola, the causal agent of the brown stem rot disease of adzuki bean. This insertion sequence was absent in isolates ofP. gregata, f. sp.sojae which causes brown stem rot of soybean. The insertion sequence is 304 bp long and contains all the characteristics of group I introns. These characteristics include, the four conserved sequence elements (P, Q, R, and S), a U at the 5′ splice site of the exon, a G at the 3′ splice site of the intron, a putative internal guiding sequences; the sequence also fits a secondary structure model for group I introns. Similar to most group I introns found in nuclear small subunit rDNA, the intron was located in a highly conserved region and is devoid of long open reading frames. This intron provides a convenient marker for use in conventional PCR to separateP. gregata f. sp.adzukicola fromP. gregata f. sp.sojae.
Binuclear organometallic ruthenium complexes of a Schiff base expanded porphyrin

The synthesis of binuclear organometallic ruthenium complexes of an expanded porphyrin-type macrocycle is reported; pyrrolic hydrogen bonding donors were found to interact with ancillary ligands in the primary coordination sphere and to stabilize coordinated dioxygen in an eta(2)-fashion.
Sometimes a Stick is Just a Stick: The Essay as (Organic) Form

An essayistic reflection on the form of the essay as derived from English periodical essayists. As a fictional persona slipping in and out of real places, the essayist modeled a complex negotiation of “fact” that turned literature into its own kind of history and granted the essay status as literary. In such an experiential version of literary history, living was no more proof of being alive than fictionality was proof to the contrary.
Highly Variable Spread Rates in Replicated Biological Invasions: Fundamental Limits to Predictability

Although mean rates of spread for invasive species have been intensively studied, variance in spread rates has been neglected. Variance in spread rates can be driven exogenously by environmental variability or endogenously by demographic or genetic stochasticity in reproduction, survival, and dispersal. Endogenous variability is likely to be important in spread but has not been studied empirically. We show that endogenously generated variance in spread rates is remarkably high between replicated invasions of the flour beetle Tribolium castaneum in laboratory microcosms. The observed variation between replicate invasions cannot be explained by demographic stochasticity alone, which indicates inherent limitations to predictability in even the simplest ecological settings.
FORCOD: A coding and classification system for formed parts

Abstract Part coding and classification systems are required to apply the group technology philosophy. Thus far, most coding and classification systems are for metal removal processes. This paper proposes a coding and classification scheme for the metal forming process. Coding details based on part geometry, tolerance level, surface finish, material, heat treatment, and defect level are defined. As an example, based on the proposed coding scheme, a multi-objective cluster analysis problem is formulated and solved for bosses and connecting rods, which are typical examples of forged parts.
Patterning of CMOS device structures for 40-80nm pitches and beyond

CMOS device patterning for aggressively scaled pitches (smaller than 80nm pitch) faces many challenges. Maybe one of the most crucial issues during device formation is the pattern transfer from a soft mask (carbon based) material into a hard mask material. A very characteristic phenomenon is that mechanical failure of the soft material may be observed. While this was observed first for patterning below 80nm pitch, it becomes increasingly important for even smaller pitches (≤ 40 nm). Further process optimization by various pre- and post-treatments has enabled robust pattern transfer down to 40nm pitch. A systematic study of the parameters impacting this phenomenon will be shown. Other challenges for patterning devices include profile control and material loss during gate stack patterning and spacer formation. Lastly, initial patterning experiments at an even more aggressive pitch show that the mechanical failure previously observed for larger pitches once again becomes an increasingly important issue to consider.
Geochemistry and petrogenesis of the marginal zone of the Mount Lowe Intrusion, central San Gabriel Mountains, California

The marginal zone of the Mount Lowe Intrusion (MLI) is composed of a mineralogically and geochemically distinctive suite of quartz poor, alkali-enriched monzodiorites and quartz monzodiorites. Low initial 87Sr/86Sr, Rb, and Rb/Sr coupled with high Ab/Or, K/Rb, Ba and Sr suggest that feldspathic continental crust did not contribute significantly to the magma. The inferred original magma composition is most consistent with experimental data for about 20% batch modal melting of eclogite or quartz eclogite of altered oceanic tholeiite composition. The high absolute Ba and Sr abundances require in addition an enriched component, perhaps derived from dehydration processes within a subducted slab. At the level of exposure, the range of observed compositions resulted from fractionation of hornblende, plagioclase, sphene, apatite and magnetite. Fractionation resulted in formation of a peraluminous, Mn — enriched residual liquid which crystallized garnet. The grandite — enriched composition of the garnet is inferred to be due to high pressure (ca. 6.7 kb), high \(f_{{\text{O}}_{\text{2}} }\) crystallization, relative to typical plutonic garnets. The composition of the marginal zone of MLI has many chemical similarities to early Mesozoic plutonism in the Cordilleran continental margin magmatic arc of western North America.
The psychological health of employed and unemployed recent graduates as a function of their cognitive appraisal and coping

In the literature on the effects of unemployment on graduates two competing hypothesis have found support. On one hand graduates have higher expectations about status and occupational identity, hence being unemployed should be more distressing. On the other hand graduates have access to more personal and situational resources and should cope better with the stress of unemployment. In a study of 181 recent graduates it was found that those who were employed (n = 88) scored higher on both somatization and intepersonal sensitivity than those who were unemployed (n = 93). A large percentage also reported not being in the job to which they aspired and scored low on job commitment. The unemployed graduates had a more positive approach to probem-solving, higher achievement motivation, more perceived social support, were more assertive, and felt less hopeless than their employed peers. They also engaged in more constructive leisure activities than the employed group. The data provide tentative support for the hypothesis that graduates are better at coping with unemployment. However the indication is that any advantage to be gained is ralative to the type of job occupied by the employed group to whom they are compared. The general conclusion is that opting for a job which does not meet axpectations or aspirations may be more psychologically damaging in the short term than being unemployed and hopeful. This is a function of the individual's vulnerability or resistance to stress and highlights the need for graduates to be prepared more effectively for the path to a career
Computer simulation of high-speed impact response of composites

The authors share some of their experiences with the use of a supercomputer to facilitate the analysis and design of high-velocity impact processes in composite systems. They also discuss the benefits of color animation of the results on a MacIntosh computer. The calculations were carried out on a CRAY-2 using an impact model developed for high-velocity impact/penetration of fiber-reinforced layered composites. The model is built on a continuum approach and includes a basic orthotropic constitutive material behavior. A computer program was developed to convert the results of the analysis for hundreds of time steps into 8-bit raster images and these are animated using graphic tools developed at NCSA. The same set of images were also directly recorded on a video tape. A fifteen-times improvement in speed has been recorded on the CRAY-2 over a VAX 8600 computer previously used for the same calculations. >
Stress and Texture Analysis with Two-Dimensional X-Ray Diffraction

Two-dimensional x-ray diffraction (XRD 2 ) refers to x-ray diffraction applications with two-dimensional (2D) detector and corresponding data reduction and analysis. The two-dimensional diffraction pattern contains far more information than a one-dimensional profile collected with the conventional diffractometer. In order to take the advantages of the 2D detector, new approaches are necessary to configure the two-dimensional x-ray diffraction system and to analyze the 2D diffraction data. The present paper is an introduction to some fundamentals about stress and texture analysis with two-dimensional x-ray diffraction using the Bruker GADDS system as an example.
EvalWare: web resources and recommendations for DSP hardware design [Best of The Web]

In this issue, "Best of the Web" focuses on web resources that are useful for understanding the features of digital signal processor (DSP) devices and using DSPs to build systems and applications. Most readers of this magazine are well versed in the theory and algorithms of digital signal processing. However, making the transition from DSP theory to DSP hardware can be quite a challenge, especially for people whose computer engineering background is not particularly extensive. The saying "the devil is in the details" was probably coined by a DSP hardware engineer! For example, an algorithm that performs beautifully in MATLAB can, when implemented in DSP hardware, fail to run or--worse yet--seem to run fine but provide incorrect output. There are many implementation paths for DSP hardware, with many large differences and many more subtle nuances that are keys to a successful design. We hope the reader won?t underestimate the pitfalls that can wreak havoc on a DSP hardware project.
Application of electrical effective channel length and external resistance measurement techniques to a submicrometer CMOS process

The practical applications and limitations of four methods for extracting the effective channel length (L/sub eff/) and series resistance (R/sub ext/) parameters for MOS devices are studied. The methods are: GD (gate drive) using fixed-current V/sub t/ or GD(I/sub ds/); SBGD (substrate-bias GD) using fixed-current V/sub t/ or SBGD (I/sub ds/); GD using maximum slope V/sub t/ or GD (G/sub m/); and SBGD using maximum slope V/sub t/ or SBGD (G/sub m/). Conventional and two LDD (lightly doped drain) structures fabricated in a submicrometer CMOS process are used. The results indicate that all the extraction methods are applicable to both n-channel and p-channel devices, although some are only valid over a small range of gate biases. Inconsistencies in applying V/sub t/ calculations to the extraction equations set a lower limit for V/sub gst/ of approximately 0.5 V, while the upper limit of 2.0-4.0 V arises due to imprecision in R/sub ds/ measurements influencing the double regression steps involved in the techniques. The SBGD (I/sub ds/) method was applicable over a wider range of bias conditions than the other techniques analyzed and is easier to implement. >
Influence of interplanetary coronal mass ejections on the peak intensity of solar energetic particle events

We study whether the presence of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) in interplanetary space (ICMEs) affects the maximum intensity of solar energetic particle (SEP) events. We compute the maximum intensity of 175–315 keV electron and 9–15, 15–40, and 40–80 MeV proton fluxes measured during the prompt component of 147 western SEP events observed near Earth throughout solar cycle 23. When using in situ observations to determine the presence and location of preceding ICMEs during SEP events, we find that, over the ensemble of events, those observed either within a preceding ICME or when a preceding ICME is beyond the observer's location have, on average, larger peak intensities than the events observed in absence of ICMEs. The few events observed when an Earth-directed ICME is located between the Sun and the observer tend to have lower 9–15 and 15–40 MeV proton peak intensities than the events without preceding ICMEs; the differences are not significant for 175–315 keV electron peak intensities. When using coronagraph observations to determine the presence of preceding CMEs, we find that, over the ensemble of events, those events (Case P) occurring within 24 h after the launch of a CME from the same active region as the primary CME generating the SEP event tend to have higher peak intensities than those events (Case NP) occurring without a preceding CME. The differences between the average peak intensities of these two event cases (P and NP) are smaller when we exclude events observed when a prior ICME is already located at or beyond Earth.
Overall dynamic properties of three-dimensional periodic elastic composites

￻￻ This article presents a method for the homogenization of three-dimensional periodic elastic composites. It allows for the evaluation of the averaged overall frequencydependent dynamic material constitutive tensors relating the averaged dynamic field variable tensors of velocity, strain, stress and linear momentum. Although the form of the dynamic constitutive relation for three-dimensional elastodynamic wave propagation has been known, this is the first time that explicit calculations of the effective parameters (for three dimensions) are presented. We show that for three-dimensional periodic composites, the overall compliance (stiffness) tensor, as produced directly by our formulation, is Hermitian, regardless of whether the corresponding unit cell is geometrically or materially symmetric. Overall, mass density is shown to be a tensor and, like the overall compliance tensor, always Hermitian. The average strain and linear momentum tensors are, however, coupled, and the coupling tensors are shown to be each others’ Hermitian transpose. Finally, we present a numerical example of a three-dimensional periodic composite composed of elastic cubes periodically distributed in an elastic matrix. The presented results corroborate the predictions of the theoretical treatment illustrating the frequency dependence of the constitutive parameters. We also show that the effective properties calculated in this paper satisfy the dispersion relation of the composite.
Foraging Responses of Mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis) to Items of Different Sizes and Colors

ABSTRACT We examined whether mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis) exhibit any preferences for potential prey items on the basis of size or color. Using fishing lures to control for movement and other variables, we compared the number of initial foraging attempts (biting) exhibited towards lures based on size and based on color. Mosquitofish showed a non-significant trend (P = 0.14) toward preferring the largest item. Mosquitofish showed an overwhelming preference for a green lure compared to red, black and yellow, and black and green lures. These results suggest that mosquitofish may exhibit preferences for prey based on color, and to a lesser extent, on size.
Characterization of Murine Vasopressor and Vasodepressor Prostaglandin E 2 Receptors

Four E-prostanoid (EP) receptors, designated EP(1), EP(2), EP(3), and EP(4), mediate the cellular effects of prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)). The present studies pharmacologically characterize the vasopressor and vasodepressor EP receptors in wild-type mice (EP(2)(+/+) mice) and mice with targeted disruption of the EP(2) receptor (EP(2)(-/-) mice). Mean arterial pressure (MAP) was measured via a carotid artery catheter in anesthetized male mice. Intravenous infusion of PGE(2) decreased MAP in EP(2)(+/+) mice but increased MAP in EP(2)(-/-) mice. Infusion of EP(3)-selective agonists, including MB28767, SC46275, and sulprostone, increased MAP in both EP(2)(+/+) and EP(2)(-/-) mice. Pretreatment with SC46275 desensitized mice to the subsequent pressor effect of sulprostone, but the vasodepressor effect of PGE(2) in EP(2)(+/+) mice remained intact. Although PGE(2) alone increased MAP in EP(2)(-/-) mice, prior desensitization of the pressor effect with SC46275 allowed a residual vasodepressor effect of PGE(2) to be seen in the EP(2)(-/-) mice. An EP(4)-selective agonist (prostaglandin E(1)-OH) functioned also as a vasodepressor in both EP(2)(-/-) and EP(2)(+/+) mice. High levels of EP(3) receptor mRNA were detected in mouse aortas and rabbit preglomerular arterioles by nuclease protection, with lower expressions of EP(1), EP(2), and EP(4) mRNA. The findings suggest that combined vasodepressor effects of EP(2) and EP(4) receptors normally dominate, accounting for the depressor effects of PGE(2). In contrast, in EP(2)(-/-) mice, EP(4) receptor activity alone is insufficient to overcome the EP(3) vasopressor effect. These findings suggest that a balance between pressor and depressor PGE(2) receptors determines its net effect on arterial pressure and that these receptors may be important therapeutic targets.