cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Backtracking and random constraint satisfaction

The average running time used by backtracking on random constraint satisfaction problems is studied. This time is polynomial when the ratio of constraints to variables is large, and it is exponential when the ratio is small. When the number of variables goes to infinity, whether the average time is exponential or polynomial depends on the number of variables per constraint, the number of values per variable, and the probability that a random setting of variables satisfies a constraint. A method for computing the curve that separates polynomial from exponential time and several methods for approximating the curve are given. The version of backtracking studied finds all solutions to a problem, so the running time is exponential when the number of solutions per problem is exponential. For small values of the probability, the curve that separates exponential and polynomial average running time coincides with the curve that separates an exponential average number of solutions from a polynomial number. For larger probabilities the two curves diverge. Random problems similar to those that arise in understanding line drawings with shadows require a time that is mildly exponential when they are solved by simple backtracking. Slightly more sophisticated algorithms (such as constraint propagation combined with backtracking) should be able to solve these rapidly.
Regulation and function of adenosine deaminase in mice.

Publisher Summary Adenosine deaminase (ADA) is an essential and widely distributed enzyme of purine catabolism that catalyzes the hydrolytic deamination of adenosine and deoxyadenosine to inosine and deoxyinosine. The catalytic moiety of ADA exists as a single polypeptide chain, with approximately 83.1% amino-acid sequence identity between humans and mice. Recombinant murine ADA has been subjected to crystallographic analysis and the architecture of the enzyme is a parallel α/β barrel with eight central β strands and eight peripheral α helixes. The importance of ADA for vertebrate systems stems primarily from the physiological impact of its substrates— adenosine and deoxyadenosine. Adenosine functions as an extracellular signal transducer that mediates a large variety of physiological effects by binding to adenosine receptors present on the surface of target cells. Depending on the severity of mutation, ADA deficiency in humans is associated with mild to severe immunodeficiency that, in severe cases, can lead to infant mortality if not treated. ADA is an essential enzyme of purine metabolism that is ubiquitously expressed and displays enhanced expression in specific tissues during development and in the adult.
Free radicals in cancer.

It has been hypothesized that free radicals play a significant role in cancer. A historical review indicates a series of rises and falls in the acceptance of this hypothesis and it remains controversial. The strongest evidence for a critical role of free radicals in cancer is based on electron spin resonance (e.s.r.) data from lyophilized (freeze-dried) tumours. Recent results indicate that such data are artifactual in the sense that the observed signals are not directly related to free radicals existing before lyophilization. These data also indicate, however, that some of the observed changes are reproducible and may be indirectly linked to biophysical or biochemical changes that occur in tumour cells. A possible key to such a link is via antioxidants, especially ascorbic acid. It is now feasible to do experiments to definitively determine: (1) the generality of the effect of lyophilization on e.s.r. spectra of tumours; (2) the molecular nature of the free radicals observed in lyophilized tumours and normal tissues; (3) the effect of redox reactions and substances on the observed e.s.r. spectra; and (4) the occurrence of free radical changes during carcinogenesis.
Comparison of radiation dose between different fluoroscopy systems in the modern catheterization laboratory: Results from bench testing using an anthropomorphic phantom.

Background Variations in radiation dose between various X-ray systems have received limited study. Objective We examined the impact of X-ray system type on patient radiation dose during cardiac catheterization. Methods An anthropomorphic phantom was used in a series of standardized experiments that involved 15 sec of continuous cineangiography in 7 projections. Three to seven experiments were performed in four commonly used X-ray systems: Innova IGS (GE Healthcare), Integris Allura FD20 (Philips), Allura Clarity (Philips), and Artis one (Siemens). Phantom radiation dose was measured with a dedicated X-ray dosimetry system (Gafchromic radiology film and Film QA XR software, Ashland) that was precalibrated at 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 Gray, and with the X-ray system built-in functions. Results Radiation dose was lowest with the Allura Clarity system [average film dose 4.2 ± 0.1 cGray, peak film dose 18.3 ± 1.6 cGray, Air Kerma (AK) dose 0.310 ± 0.002 Gray, Dose Area Product (DAP) dose 23.72 ± 0.84 Gray*cm2], intermediate with the Integris Allura FD20 (average film dose 4.4 ± 1.1 cGray, peak film dose 29.4 ± 15.5 cGray, AK 0.482 ± 0.189 Gray, DAP 45.18 ± 21.90 Gray*cm2), and highest with the Artis one system (average film dose 7.4 ± 0.8 cGray, peak film dose 66.9 ± 0.09 cGray, AK 0.746 ± 0.085 Gray, DAP 75.93 ± 9.11 Gray*cm2) and the Innova IGS system (average film dose 7.2 ± 1.0 cGray, peak film dose 49.3 ± 28.9 cGray, AK 0.874 ± 0.340 Gray, DAP 92.28 ± 14.73 Gray*cm2; P = 0.011 for average film dose, P = 0.019 for maximum film dose, P = 0.033 for AK, and P = 0.008 for DAP). Conclusions The X-ray system type has significant impact on patient radiation dose during cardiac catheterization. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Accurate Mass MS/MS/MS Analysis of Siderophores Ferrioxamine B and E1 by Collision-Induced Dissociation Electrospray Mass Spectrometry

Siderophores are bacterially secreted, small molecule iron chelators that facilitate the binding of insoluble iron (III) for reuptake and use in various biological processes. These compounds are classified by their iron (III) binding geometry, as dictated by subunit composition and include groups such as the trihydroxamates (hexadentate ligand) and catecholates (bidentate). Small modifications to the core structure such as acetylation, lipid tail addition, or cyclization, make facile characterization of new siderophores difficult by molecular ion detection alone (MS1). We have expanded upon previous fragmentation-directed studies using electrospray ionization collision-induced dissociation tandem mass spectrometry (ESI-CID-MS/MS/MS) and identified diagnostic MS3 features from the trihydroxamate siderophore class for ferrioxamine B and E1 by accurate mass. Diagnostic features for MS3 include C–C, C–N, amide, and oxime cleavage events with proposed losses of water and –CO from the iron (III) coordination sites. These insights will facilitate the discovery of novel trihydroxamate siderophores from complex sample matrices.
Relationship between Desiccation and Exopolysaccharide Production in a Soil Pseudomonas sp

Abstract The relationship between desiccation and the production of extracellular polysaccharides (EPS) by soil bacteria was investigated by using a Pseudomonas species isolated from soil. Cultures subjected to desiccation while growing in a sand matrix contained more EPS and less protein than those growing at high water potential, suggesting that resources were allocated to EPS production in response to desiccation. Desiccation did not have a significant effect on activity as measured by reduction of iodonitrotetrazolium. Purified EPS produced by the Pseudomonas culture contained several times its weight in water at low water potential. Sand amended with EPS held significantly more water and dried significantly more slowly than unamended sand, implying that an EPS matrix may buffer bacterial colonies from some effects of desiccation. We conclude that bacteria may use EPS production to alter their microenvironment to enhance survival of desiccation.
A Compact S-band narrow-wall complementary-split-ring slotted waveguide antenna for high power applications

This paper presents the design of a 5-element array consisting of four complementary split ring (CSR) slots on the narrow-wall of a rectangular waveguide and an H-plane-bend (HPB) radiator. Subwavelength CSR slots are recently proposed as elements of slotted waveguide antenna (SWA) arrays. Combining CSR slots on the narrow-wall of a rectangular waveguide with an HPB radiator provides significant size reduction while maintaining high-power handling ability. A periodic air-filled corrugation is applied to the post narrow-wall of the rectangular waveguide to achieve better return loss.
Metallic copper in ordinary chondrites

Metallic Cu of moderately high purity (approximately 985 mg/g Cu, approximately 15 mg/g Ni) occurs in at least 66% of ordinary chondrites (OC) as heterogeneously distributed, small (typically less than or equal to 20 micrometers) rounded to irregular grains. The mean modal abundance of metallic Cu in H, L and LL chondrites is low: 1.0 to 1.4 x 10(exp -4) vol%, corresponding to only 4 - 5 % of the total Cu in OC whole rocks. In more than 75% of the metallic-Cu-bearing OC, at least some metallic Cu occurs at metallic-Fe-Ni-troilite grain boundaries. In some cases it also occurs within troilite, within metallic Fe-Ni, or at the boundaries these phases form with silicates or chromite. Ordinary chondrites that contain a relatively large number of occurrences of metallic Cu/sq mm have a tendency to have experienced moderately high degrees of shock. Shock processes can cause local melting and transportation of metallic Fe-Ni and troilte; because metallic Cu is mainly associated with these phases, it also gets redistributed during shock events. In the most common petrographic assemblage containing metallic Cu, the Cu is adjacent to small irregular troilite grains surrounded by taenite plus tetrataenite; this assemblage resembles fizzed troilite and may have formed by localized shock melting or remelting of a metal-troilite assemblage.
Cahokia: The Great Native American Metropolis

Cahokia: The Great Native American Metropolis. Biloine Whiting Young and Melvin L. Fowler. Champaign: University of Illinois Press, 2000. 366 pp.
Microdistribution of fluorescently-labeled monoclonal antibody in a peritoneal dissemination model of ovarian cancer

The microdistribution of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies within a tumor is important for determining clinical response. Nonuniform microdistribution predicts therapy failure. Herein, we developed a semiquantitative method for measuring microdistribution of an antibody within a tumor using in situ fluorescence microscopy and sought to modulate the microdistribution by altering the route and timing of antibody dosing. The microdistribution of a fluorescently-labeled antibody, trastuzumab (50-μg and 150-μg intraperitoneal injection (i.p.), and 100-μg intravenous injection (i.v.)) was evaluated in a peritoneal dissemination mouse model of ovarian cancer. In addition, we evaluated the microdistribution of concurrently-injected (30-μg i.p. and 100-μg i.v.) or serial (two doses of 30-μg i.p.) trastuzumab using in situ multicolor fluorescence microscopy. After the administration of 50-μg i.p. and 100-μg i.v. trastuzumab fluorescence imaging showed no significant difference in the central to peripheral signal ratio (C/P ratio) and demonstrated a peripheral-dominant accumulation, whereas administration of 150-μg i.p. trastuzumab showed relatively uniform, central dominant accumulation. With concurrent-i.p.-i.v. injections trastuzumab showed slightly higher C/P ratio than concurrently-injected i.p. trastuzumab. Moreover, in the serial injection study, the second injection of trastuzumab distributed more centrally than the first injection, while no difference was observed in the control group. Our results suggest that injection routes do not affect the microdistribution pattern of antibody in small peritoneal disseminations. However, increasing the dose results in a more uniform antibody distribution within peritoneal nodules. Furthermore, the serial i.p. injection of antibody can modify the microdistribution within tumor nodules. This work has implications for the optimal delivery of antibody based cancer therapies.
The economic cost of the CAP revisited

This paper reports estimates of the domestic economic cost of the common agricultural policy (CAP) from computable general equilibrium simulations which incorporate imperfect competition in the non-primary sectors, as well as explicit modelling of agricultural protection. Imperfect competition is characterised to include hierarchical preferences, addressing the notion of varietal diversity as an important decision variable in consumer behaviour. Results indicate that repeal of the CAP would reduce varietal diversity in food processing in the EU, causing utility losses. However, these would be countered by positive varietal effects in other sectors and by strong allocative effects. The net cost of the CAP to the EU is estimated at 0.2% of gross domestic product (GDP). For an individual member state the cost can be considerably larger, as with the UK where the estimate is above 0.5% of GDP.
ESR studies of chemically modified and photocrosslinked poly(vinyl alcohol) gels

The hydrophilicity of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) was lowered by acetalization with propionic aldehyde. After UV irradiation of pendent styrylpyridinium groups, these prepolymers form networks of different hydrophobicity depending on the degree of acetalization. PVA films containing different amounts of propionic acetals were doped with 4-hydroxy-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl. Then, the ESR spectra of the spin probe entrapped in the polymeric network were monitored while allowing different solvents to diffuse into the polymer. The rate of spin probe mobilization depends on the hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity of both the polymer network and the solvent. However, the modified polymers, even the more hydrophobic ones, are hydrophilic in comparison to really hydrophobic polymers. This is probably caused by the character of the parent polymer (PVA), unreacted hydroxy groups. Simulations of the ESR spectra have shown that in polymers with a higher degree of acetalization domains of different hydrophobicity are built in which the spin probes have a different mobility.
Confounding by indication in retrospective studies of intracerebral hemorrhage: antiepileptic treatment and mortality.

Introduction Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a highly fatal disease with few proven treatments. Data to guide clinician decisions for therapies, including antiepileptic drugs (AED), are limited. Published studies on AED treatment in ICH have provided conflicting results. We investigated the effect of AED treatment on 90-day mortality after ICH in a large prospectively ascertained cohort.
Viscosity Measurement of Biological Fluids Using Optical Tweezer

An optical tweezer (OT) has been widely used to study the mechanical properties of microscopic living biological systems like red blood cells. These studies are based on measurement of deformations caused by a force exerted directly or indirectly by an optical trap. The trap is usually pre-calibrated using Stokes viscous force of the suspension fluids for the biological system which is directly proportional to the viscosity of the fluids. Therefore, calibration of the trap depends on the viscosity of the fluid which depends on temperature. In this work, we have demonstrated that OT can be used to precisely measure the viscosity of biological fluids affected by temperature. Using a an infrared laser trap which is calibrated using a 3.1micron silica sphere suspended in a distilled deionized water and measuring the power as function of escape velocity, we have measured the viscosities of a newborn and unborn bovine serum with a different concentration of antibodies. Comparative analysis of these measurements with the measurements carried out by direct use of a viscometer have revealed a significant effect of increase in temperature resulting from the intense beam of the laser trap.
The computation of optimal control programmes using a modified successive sweep method.

A second-order method for numerically solving control optimization problems has been developed. The method, referred to as the modified sweep method (MSM), differs from the successive sweep method (SSM) proposed by McReynolds and Bryson (1965) in that the conditions for local control optimality are used to determine the control as an explicit function of the state variables and time. The control is eliminated from the problem and the solution to the resulting two-point boundary value problem can be obtained by linear perturbation methods. The modified sweep method proposed here uncouples the perturbation equations for the state variables and the Lagrange multipliers by using a generalized matrix-Riccati transformation of variables. The resulting algorithm for the numerical iteration process is concerned with determining the initial values of a set of Lagrange multipliers rather than correcting a numerical control programme over the entire time interval of interest.
The Analysis of the Absorption Spectrum of Cobalt Chloride in Concentrated Hydrochloric Acid

This paper presents the absorption spectrum of cobalt chloride in concentrated hydrochloric acid as a solvent, and a discussion of the data obtained with regard to certain theoretical possibilities of its complex structure. No attempt has been made to present or discuss theories concerning the nature of the cobalt ions or complexes in various solutions and compounds. The absorption spectrum of cobalt chloride in hydrochloric acid has been observed and studied by a number of investigations. In many of the earlier papers the work was undetected. In the first of these investigations the band was recorded as a smooth curve with but two or three apparent maxima. With an increase in the accuracy of the methods and apparatus for absorption spectra measurement, recent observes have resolved this complex band into four bands.
ACQUISITION OF CONTROL SKILL WITH DELAYED AND COMPENSATED DISPLAYS

The difficulty of mastering a two-axis, compensatory, manual control task was manipulated by introducing transport delays into the feedback loop of the controlled element. Realistic aircraft dynamics were used. Subjects' display was a simulation of an "inside-out" artificial horizon instrument perturbed by atmospheric turbulence. The task was to maintain straight and level flight, and delays tested were representative of those found in current training simulators. Delay compensations in the form of first-order lead and first-order lead/lag transfer functions, along with an uncompensated condition, were factorially combined with added delays. Subjects were required to meet a relatively strict criterion for performance. Control activity showed no differences during criterion performance, but the trials needed to achieve the criterion were linearly related to the magnitude of the delay and the compensation condition. These data were collected in the context of aircraft attitude control, but the results can be applied to the simulation of other vehicles, to remote manipulation, and to maneuvering in graphical environments.
The purification and some properties of ribulosebisphosphate carboxylase and of its subunits from the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii

Abstract A description is presented of a rapid and efficient method for large-scale preparation of ribulosebiphosphate carboxylase (EC 4.1.1.39) from the green alga, Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, and of the separation into two purified subunits. The purification of the enzyme was accomplished essentially by (NH4)2SO4 fractionation and sucrose-density gradient centrifugation, while the separation into subunits has been done by chromatography on sodium dodecylsulfate-hydroxyapatite or by gel filtration on Sephadex G-150 in the presence of guanidine-HCl. The molecular weights of the subunits, as determined by sodium dodecylsulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, were 55.0·103 and 16.5·103. The pI of the enzyme was found to be 6.25, while that of the subunits was in the range 6.0–7.0. No amino-terminal amino acid could be detected in either of the subunits. Amino acid composition of the whole enzyme and of the separated subunits were determined and compared to those from other plant species.
Electrospinning of hydroxyapatite fibrous mats

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) with an average molecular weight between 40,500 and 155,000 g/mol was electrospun with a calcium phosphate based sol. The sol was prepared by reacting triethyl phosphite and calcium nitrate and was directly added to an aqueous solution of PVA. This mixture was electrospun at a voltage of 20 kV. The results indicate that the sol was distributed uniformly in the PVA fibers, whose diameter was on the order of 2 μm. This electrospun structure was calcined at 600 °C for 6 h to obtain a residual inorganic, fibrous network, with fiber diameters between 200 and 800 nm. The fibrous structure consists predominantly of hydroxyapatite with an average crystal size of almost 10 to 30 nm. A variety of structures including non-woven mats of solid or micro-porous hydroxyapatite fibers and highly porous scaffolds could be obtained by varying the polymer molecular weight and the sol volume fraction. These structures can have many potential uses in the repair and treatment of bone defects, drug delivery and tissue engineering.
Sunbeds-still a hotbed for the burning issue.

The well-known risks of skin cancer aside, this case illustrates that what seems an innocuous visit for "a bit of sunshine" could have further reaching consequences in terms of sustaining burns. In this case,Â 15 minutes of exposureÂ were significant enough to manifest as severe dehydration requiring fluid resuscitation and hospital admission. This prompts one to think of how much the public is unaware of theÂ risks of sunbed overexposure particularly when technology changes lead to increases in UV dose with shorter exposures. Furthermore, what is the extent of responsibility of the individual proprietor to supply comprehensive information to their customers, considering the dangers? Should there not be some form of legislation to protect the less informed members of public among us? Language: en
Mild Brachmann-de Lange syndrome. Phenotypic and developmental characteristics of mildly affected individuals.

Since 1981, we have identified 3 patients with mild Brachmann-de Lange syndrome (BDLS) who have had subtle but definite manifestations of the syndrome and mild effects on growth and development. J.G. (B.D. 12/9/72) was first examined at 20 months. He had rather typical craniofacial findings and hirsutism, limitation of full supination of his arms, and brachyclinodactyly of the 5th fingers. IQ was estimated at 65. K.H. (B.D. 10/10/83) was first examined by us at age 9 months and was diagnosed as having “mild” BDLS. At age 5, K.H. has demonstrated relatively normal cognitive development (low average–average IQ of 74) with specific learning problems: weakness of visual-motor skills, delayed expressive language development, and articulation difficulties. At age 7, he was attending a regular 1st grade classroom, with some special education assistance. M.E.(B.D. 4/19/78) was diagnosed at age 10 years as having “mild” BDLS. His physical changes were more subtle than those of the 2 patients above. At age 10, M.E. was in the regular 4th grade classroom receiving special education support. His IQ was in the borderline-low-average range. He had strengths in rote verbal skills, with weaknesses in reading and writing. These 3 patients demonstrate mild BDLS in which characteristic manifestations of the syndrome, particularly craniofacial anomalies, are present and recognizable, but quite subtle, thus making the clinical diagnosis difficult. In addition, the milder physical phenotype is associated with milder cognitive and behavioral consequences. When comparing patients with mild BDLS to those in our practice (4 others) with typical changes, we find that birth weight, absence of major anomalies, and subtlety of craniofacial abnormalities are predictive of mildly affected patients. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Impact of laparoscopic cholecystectomy on indications for surgical treatment of gallstones.

Background: The objective of this study was to compare the histology of gallbladders removed prior to the introduction of laparoscopic cholecystectomy with that found after the introduction of the laparoscopic technique to determine if there has been a change in the indications for surgical treatment of gallbladder disease.
Hume and the Miraculous

Hume states that a miracle is a violation of the laws of nature. Anyone reporting the occurrence of a miraculous event commits himself to the proposition that the event runs counter to the laws of nature. It is, Hume points out, not enough that the reported event fail to be “conformable” to our experience for us, licitly, to accept the report as of a miraculous event or—if we are the witnesses and reporters—to judge that what we have witnessed is miraculous. To use one of Hume's examples: the Indian from a warm climate is surprised to discover that water freezes. His previous experience has never been such that he could be prepared for this contingency; the freezing is not conformable to his experience but neither is it miraculous since it is not contrary to that experience.
Interference by carbohydrate and other substances in the estimation of protein with the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent.

One of the most sensitive and widely employed assays for protein is the calorimetric p.rocedure developed by Lowry et al. (l), based on the use of the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent, the active constituent of which is a phosphomolybdic-tungstic mixed acid (2). Analysis of protein by this means is due originally to Wu (3). The chief shortcoming of the Lowry asay is poor specificity. A variety of substances, including phenols, purines, and hydrazines (1)) salicylates, various antibiotics, and drugs (4), histamine and other physiological amines (5, 6)) tris (hydroxymethyl) aminomethane (7, 8)) and the free amino acids-glycine (1)) tyrosine, tryptophan, and cysteine (5, 20)) are known to interfere in this assay. Except in high concentration (g-11)) sugars generally do not interfere in the Lowry assay under the usual conditions. However, the literature on this subject (1, 3, 12-20) does not warn against the positive interference exhibited by most sugars in low concentration after exposure to hot alkali or acid despite the fact that the “molybdate blue” reaction of sugars is well known and is the basis of a clinical assay for blood glucose (21, 22). Reports occur in the literature in which the protein content of tissue preparations-are given without taking carbohydrate interference into account (23). For example, some authors recommend heating of recovered protein samples in alkali prior to analysis in order to solubilize the protein (1, 23). Others recommend heating of the assay system to increase the rate and intensity of the assay reaction (12-15). Recently, Gerhardt and Beevers (24) reported positive inte.rference by sucrose in the Miller modification (15) of the Lowry assay. We can state that this interference, which does not occur in the unmodified procedure, is due to heating of the
A phase 2 trial of stereotactic radiosurgery boost after surgical resection for brain metastases.

Purpose To evaluate local control after surgical resection and postoperative stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for brain metastases. Methods and Materials A total of 49 patients (50 lesions) were enrolled and available for analysis. Eligibility criteria included histologically confirmed malignancy with 1 or 2 intraparenchymal brain metastases, age ≥18 years, and Karnofsky performance status (KPS) ≥70. A Cox proportional hazard regression model was used to test for significant associations between clinical factors and overall survival (OS). Competing risks regression models, as well as cumulative incidence functions, were fit using the method of Fine and Gray to assess the association between clinical factors and both local failure (LF; recurrence within surgical cavity or SRS target), and regional failure (RF; intracranial metastasis outside of treated volume). Results The median follow-up was 12.0 months (range, 1.0-94.1 months). After surgical resection, 39 patients with 40 lesions were treated a median of 31 days (range, 7-56 days) later with SRS to the surgical bed to a median dose of 1800 cGy (range, 1500-2200 cGy). Of the 50 lesions, 15 (30%) demonstrated LF after surgery. The cumulative LF and RF rates were 22% and 44% at 12 months. Patients who went on to receive SRS had a significantly lower incidence of LF ( P =.008). Other factors associated with improved local control include non-small cell lung cancer histology ( P =.048), tumor diameter P =.010), and deep parenchymal tumors ( P =.036). Large tumors (≥3 cm) with superficial dural/pial involvement showed the highest risk for LF (53.3% at 12 months). Large superficial lesions treated with SRS had a 54.5% LF. Infratentorial lesions were associated with a higher risk of developing RF compared to supratentorial lesions ( P Conclusions Postoperative SRS is associated with high rates of local control, especially for deep brain metastases
THE EFFECTS OF NOREPINEPHRINE TREATMENT ON DRUG METABOLISM BY LIVER MICROSOMES FROM RATS.

Abstract A single, large intraperitoneal injection of norepinephrine has little effect on the hepatic microsomal metabolism of hexobarbital, aminopyrine, or aniline, though hepatic glycogen levels are markedly depressed for at least 12 hr. Repeated injections of norepinephrine will depress both hepatic glycogen and the microsomal drug metabolisms studied. These effects are at least partially reversible when injections or norepinephrine are stopped. Phenoxybenzamine and dihydroergotamine, given i.p., can block the effects of norepinephrine on hepatic glycogen, but cannot be said to block effects of the catecholamine on microsomal drug metabolism because these adrenolytic drugs (and also dichloroisoproterenol) have a direct inhibitory effect on the hepatic drug metabolisms studied. The inhibition of the microsomal metabolism of hexobarbital and aminopyrine by phenoxybenzamine and dihydroergotamine is of the same order as that seen with SKF 525 (β-diethylaminoethyldiphenylpropyl acetate) and is the subject of further investigation.
The Role of Elastohydrodynamic Lubrication in Rolling-Contact Fatigue

Five-ball fatigue tester and rolling-contact disk machine used to study elastohydrodynamic lubrication effect on fatigue life
Wright on the McKinsey Problem

The McKinsey Problem concerns a puzzling implication of the doctrines of Content Externalism and Privileged Access. I provide a categorization of possible solutions to the problem. Then I discuss Crispin Wright’s work on the problem. I argue that Wright has misconceived the status of his own proferred solution to the problem.
Role of the methylated nucleic acids in carcinogenesis.

Abstract The methylating potencies toward RNA and DNA increase several fold in animal tumors and human leukemia and other malignancies, and the levels of methylated components of nucleic acids are greater in the affected tissues than those found in corresponding normal tissues. The increased urinary excretion of methylated purines occurs in human leukemia and in experimental animal tumors. Several neoplasms synthesize S-adenosylmethionine, an active methyl donor required for the methylation process. The cultured tumor cells possess increased levels of methylated nucleic acids and the necessary methylating enzymes. Several molecular mechanisms of carcinogenesis are discussed in the light of these findings.
Stress Field in a Coated Continuous Fiber Composite Subjected to Thermo-Mechanical Loadings

The stress field in a coated continuous fiber composite subjected to thermo- mechanical loadings is calculated by use of four concentric circular cylinders model. The target material is Ni- or SiC-...
Understanding participant behavior trajectories in online health support groups using automatic extraction methods

This paper presents an automatic analysis method that enables efficient examination of participant behavior trajectories in online communities, which offers the opportunity to examine behavior over time at a level of granularity that has previously only been possible in small scale case study analyses. We provide an empirical validation of its performance. We then illustrate how this method offers insights into behavior patterns that enable avoiding faulty oversimplified assumptions about participation, such as that it follows a consistent trend over time. In particular, we use this method to investigate the connection between user behavior and distressful cancer events and demonstrate how this tool could assist in cancer story summarization.
Does the US Need a new trade policy

The assertion that the US needs a new trade policy – on the assumption that the US has been embracing multilateral free trade as an objective, an assumption that is itself somewhat dubious, to say the least – has come from several politicians, often among the Democrats, and indeed in varying ways from a handful of economists, some of whom are on the Panel today. Yet, I wish to argue that this is a flawed demand. It comes in several ways from the politicians. At Columbia University some months ago, for instance, we had a Panel on which Charlie Rangel, my Congressman (as Harlem is behind Columbia), declared with a flourish: so far, under the Republicans, trade policy was designed to serve the interests of corporations; now, with Democrats in control of the Congress, it will be re-designed to serve the people. An intellectual or an economist who specializes on international trade would find this amusing, to say the least. But it is a sentiment that goes well beyond the likes of the “anti-trade” or “trade-skeptical” Congressmen Bernie Sanders and Sherrod Brown. The question of importance for us today is whether Obama believes that also. The jury is out on the issue as, since his election, Obama has – as I argue in my op-ed. “Obama and Trade: An Alarm Sounds,” Financial Times, January 8, 2009, – failed to issue emphatically (unlike Prime Minister Gordon Brown) a strong endorsement of the Doha Round and of the WTO. In fact, he has not taken care to affirm resoundingly that the auto bailout will be done in a manner consistent with the 1995 WTO rules on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures aimed at specific firms or industries, designed to extend to subsidies the rules that GATT included (based on the widespread enactment of tariff barriers following the Smoot-Hawley Tariff of 1930) regarding tariffs to prevent an outbreak of mutually damaging trade policy measures aimed at diverting an insufficient aggregate world demand to one’s own goods.
Transformation of Acinetobacter sp. BD413 with DNA from commercially available genetically modified potato and papaya

Aim: To estimate the likelihood of transfer of kanamycin-resistance gene (nptII) from commercially available genetically modified (GM) plants. Methods and Results: Acinetobacter sp. BD413 carrying a plasmid containing an inactivated nptII gene was treated with DNA derived from GM potato and GM papaya. Kanamycin-resistant transformants were obtained at a frequency of 10–30 μg−1 DNA. Calculation of the results suggested that 6–9 × 104 molecules of genomic DNA from GM plants were needed to obtain one transformant. However, such transformation events were not detectable in the absence of the plasmid in the host strain. Conclusions: Acinetobacter sp. BD413 was transformed with DNA derived from GM potato and GM papaya, in the presence of an inactivated nptII gene on a plasmid. However, the frequency of such events in the natural environment on wild-type strains, while evidently low, remains unknown. Significance and Impact of the Study: Our results may help to evaluate potential risks associated with the use of antibiotic-resistance determinants as genetic markers in GM plants. Complete risk assessment must consider factors other than transformation frequency alone, including the natural background of antibiotic resistance present in bacterial populations, and the spectrum and clinical use of the antimicrobial agents in question.
Rates of convergence of empirical Bayes tests for a normal mean

Abstract In the present paper, the EB two-action problem under the linear error loss is considered for the family of normal distributions with the location parameter. The purpose is to establish the upper and lower bounds for the risk. A monotone adaptive empirical Bayes test is constructed with the regret risk converging to zero at a rate of O (n −1 ( ln n) 3/2 ) . The lower bound for the risk of the form O (n −1 ( ln n) 1/2 ( ln ln n) −1 ) is derived. In the author's opinion, the ( ln n ln ln n) times difference between the lower and the upper bounds is due not to the fact that the estimator suggested in the paper is not optimal but to the fact that the lower bound is not exact.
Fault-tolerant computation in groups and semigroups: applications to automata, dynamic systems and Petri nets

Abstract The traditional approach to fault-tolerant computation has been via modular hardware redundancy. Although universal and simple, modular redundancy is inherently expensive and inefficient. By exploiting particular structural features of a computational architecture or an algorithm, arithmetic codes and recently developed algorithm-based fault tolerance (ABFT) techniques manage to introduce “analytical redundancy” and offer more efficient fault coverage at the cost of narrower applicability and harder design. In this paper, we extend a variety of results and constructive procedures that were developed in previous work for computations that take place in an abelian group to a more general setting that considers computations in semigroups. We demonstrate possible encodings for semigroup operations of interest and use our extension to design concurrent error detection and correction schemes for group and semigroup machines. The method provides insight regarding the role of decomposition in fault-tolerant algebraic machines and results in a general, hardware-independent characterization of concurrent error detection and correction in finite semiautomata. We also demonstrate that by extending this approach to other dynamic systems, with specific hardware implementations and failure modes, we can systematically obtain fault-tolerant architectures. More specifically, we apply these techniques to linear time-invariant dynamic systems and Petri net models of discrete event systems.
Comparison of cystometric methods in female rats.

Aims Rat cystometry is a common model used to investigate urinary storage and voiding function. The effect of cystometric instrumentation in rat studies might be a source of deviation from normal physiologic responses. We hypothesized that transurethral catheterization would produce obstruction-related changes, and that suprapubic catheterization would limit volume-related functions as well as disrupt normal urothelial sensory function. We investigated the influence of transurethral and suprapubic catheterization on storage and voiding in the rat model. Methods Three groups of female SD rats 250–300 g under urethane anesthesia were studied. Cystometric and pseudoaffective responses to physiologic voiding with and without suprapubic catheter placement, and cystometry via suprapubic and transurethral catheterization were studied. Results In free-voiding animals, per-void volume was 1.8 ± 0.2 ml with an average flow rate of 0.18 ml/sec, and intercontraction interval (ICI) 60 min. Suprapubic catheterization decreased the ICI and per-void volume consistent with capacity reduction. Suprapubic cystometry did not significantly alter parameters compared to voiding except for a shortened ICI. Bladder pressures and somatic responses were increased, and urine flow impaired by transurethral cystometry. Terazosin did not significantly improve voiding parameters. Conclusions Other than volume-related parameter changes probably related to surgical compromise of bladder capacity, suprapubic catheterization does not alter the cystometric and physiologic responses to voiding when compared to normal, uninstrumented voiding. Transurethral cystometry appears to be obstructive and may activate nociceptive reflexes. For this reason, whenever possible, urodynamic testing using the rat model should employ suprapubic catheterization. Neurourol. Urodynam. 27:324–329, 2008. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Pointlike constituent quarks and scattering equivalences

Experiments can only determine a theory up to an overall scattering equivalence. The freedom to use different scattering equivalent theories is a useful tool for simplifying the structure of dynamical models of physical systems. This paper illustrates how scattering equivalences can be used to simplify current operators in relativistic constituent quark models.
A note on distribution of amplitudes of peaks in structural response including uncertainties of the exciting ground motion and of the structural model

Abstract This note is an extension of earlier works that presented probability distribution functions for amplitudes of the peaks (the highest, the second highest … the m-th highest) in response of deterministic single degree-of-freedom (SDOF) and multi degree-of-freedom (MDOF) structures to ground motion, with deterministic Fourier spectrum and duration. It shows how these probability distribution functions can be evaluated if the Fourier spectrum and duration of the excitation are random variables specified via distribution functions. Two cases are considered: (l) when the structural model is deterministic, and (2) when the modal frequencies are random variables. The procedure presented here approximates the transfer function of the structural response by Dirac delta functions at the modal frequencies, and is applicable to multi-storey buildings with small modal damping, and with natural frequencies that are not too close. The resulting probability distribution functions are needed in seismic hazard calculations of peak response amplitudes of SDOF and MDOF structures that will not be exceeded with given confidence during the service time of the structure from any earthquake at all known faults within certain distance from the structure.
Growth of single crystals of YBa2Cu3O7

Abstract Single crystals of YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7 (1:2:3) were grown by melting mixtures of fine powders of 1:2:3, CuO and BaCuO 2 and slow cooling through the peritectic regime under oxygen. There was a fairly broad composition range in the ternary phase field in which primary crystals formation is 1:2:3. Crystals were plate shaped, millimeter and submillimeter in size, with the c -axis of the unit cell perpendicular to the flat side of the plate. The onset of the superconducting transition was in excess of 90 K. Electron microscopy showed that the as-grown superconducting crystals were heavily twinned. These results suggest that larger crystals can be grown by Czochralski or Bridgman techniques using similar compositions.
High Resolution Image Registration By Thresholded Difference

The accuracy of image registration methods is dependent on peak sharpness which is dependent on scene content. As a result of characterizing joint scene content in terms of the joint probability density function, a new registration metric is defined as the thresholded difference (TD) method. It produces a sharper correlation peak than either the direct cross-correlation or mean absolute difference methods. Analytical comparisons and simulations are presented which show the TD method to exhibit less dependence on scene content than other pixel-by-pixel registration metrics. The method is easily normalized by a simple re-scaling of both images to the same range of gray levels. The thresholded difference registration metric is evaluated in terms of registering images which are incompatible due to additive noise, different spectral bands, temporal variations and scale differences. Simulation results show the TD method to be as good or better than other pixel-by-pixel correlation methods. An optimum threshold of half the image difference standard deviation at registration is indicated by simulation results. The TD method offers promise for enhanced registration accuracy for non-compatible images.© (1983) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Incomplete taxon sampling is not a problem for phylogenetic inference

A major issue in all data collection for molecular phylogenetics is taxon sampling, which refers to the use of data from only a small representative set of species for inferring higher-level evolutionary history. Insufficient taxon sampling is often cited as a significant source of error in phylogenetic studies, and consequently, acquisition of large data sets is advocated. To test this assertion, we have conducted computer simulation studies by using natural collections of evolutionary parameters—rates of evolution, species sampling, and gene lengths—determined from data available in genomic databases. A comparison of the true tree with trees constructed by using taxa subsamples and trees constructed by using all taxa shows that the amount of phylogenetic error per internal branch is similar; a result that holds true for the neighbor-joining, minimum evolution, maximum parsimony, and maximum likelihood methods. Furthermore, our results show that even though trees inferred by using progressively larger taxa subsamples of a real data set become increasingly similar to trees inferred by using the full sample, all inferred trees are equidistant from the true tree in terms of phylogenetic error per internal branch. Our results suggest that longer sequences, rather than extensive sampling, will better improve the accuracy of phylogenetic inference.
Collective Excitations of a Confined Bose Condensate.

We discuss the collective excitation spectrum and condensate depletion of a dilute, interacting Bose condensate confined to a harmonic potential, within the Bogoliubov approximation. The spectrum is calculated explicitly for weak coupling based on a variational condensate. We discuss the qualitative nature of this spectrum and make quantitative predictions for future experiments.
Separation of Scattering And Absorption In 1-D Random Media From Spatio-Temporal Distribution of Seismic Energy

Spatio-temporal energy distribution of multiple-scattered seismic waves in one-dimensional random medium is derived using radiative transfer theory. The geometry of formulating the problem resembles VSP measurements. The backscattering and absorption coefficients of the medium can be obtained by either measuring energy density (the total energy contained in a seismogram) distribution along propagation distance or seismogram envelopes at different distances from the source.
Dermal Uptake of Organic Chemicals from a Soil Matrix

Uptake of chemicals from soil on human skin is considered. Based on a review of literature on the structure of human skin, the processes by which chemicals pass through this boundary, and experiments that reveal the rate and magnitude of this transport process; a two-layer model is presented for estimating how chemical uptake through the stratum corneum depends on chemical properties, skin properties, soil properties and exposure conditions. The model is applied to two limiting scenarios--(1) continuous deposition and removal of soil on the skin surface and (2) a one-time deposition of soil onto the skin surface. The fraction of soil-bound chemical that passes through the stratum corneum is dependent on the skin-soil layer thickness; the dimensionless Henry's law constant, Kh and the octanol-water partition coefficient, Kow of the soil-bound chemical. The nature of this dependence is discussed. 32 refs.
An extraction method for determination of benzene in tissue by gas chromatography

A gas chromatographic procedure has been developed using toluene extraction for the analysis of benzene in hemolyzed blood. No sample incubation is required and only small quantities of blood (0.2 to 0.5 g) are needed. Levels as low as 0.5 µg benzene per gram of blood have been determined.