cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pathologic features in the human alimentary tract associated with invasiveness of Candida tropicalis.

Abstract The pathologic features of Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis in 23 consecutive autopsied patients with culture-proven disseminated candidiasis were studied in order to determine the pathologic basis for the greater virulence of C. tropicalis. Disseminated C. tropicalis infection with gastrointestinal invasion occurred only in eight neutropenic patients; whereas, C. albicans infection occurred in nine neutropenic and six nonneutropenic patients. C. tropicalis involved the entire alimentary tract in four of eight patients versus one of fifteen patients with C. albicans. C. tropicalis penetrated to the deep submucosa in six of eight patients with C. tropicalis and four of fifteen patients with C. albicans. Nine of ten patients with submucosal invasion were neutropenic. Invasion of submucosal blood vessels occurred in six of eight patients with C. tropicalis and only two of fifteen patients with C. albicans. All patients with submucosal blood-vessel invasion were neutropenic. A band of tissue necrosis at the advancing mycelial margin was present with C. tropicalis but not with C. albicans. These autopsy findings indicate that the greater virulence of C. tropicalis is related to increased invasiveness in the gastrointestinal tract in susceptible hosts.
Effective application of DAS-ELISA for detection of grapevine leafroll associated closterovirus-3 using a polyclonal antiserum developed from recombinant coat protein

A polyclonal antiserum (As163) specific to grapevine leafroll associated closterovirus-3 (GLRaV-3) was developed using a recombinant coat protein expressed in E. coli from a cDNA clone identified after immunoscreening of a cDNA library. Specificity of the antiserum to GLRaV-3 was shown by Western blot and immunosorbent electron microscopy. With this antiserum, an effective double antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (DAS-ELISA) was developed for GLRaV-3 detection. To evaluate the sensitivity of the antiserum in DAS-ELISA for virus detection, different combinations of antibodies were compared. Although best results were obtained when As163 was used for coating and a monoclonal antibody (MabNY1.1) was used as an enzyme conjugate, good results were also obtained when As163 was used both for coating and as an enzyme conjugate. Using this As163–Mab system in DAS-ELISA, we confirmed the presence of GLRaV-3 in a diverse collection of leafroll infected vines.
The Majority of Immunogenic Epitopes Generate CD4+ T Cells That Are Dependent on MHC Class II-Bound Peptide-Flanking Residues

Peptides bind to MHC class II molecules with a defined periodicity such that the peptide-flanking residues (PFRs) P-1 and P11, which lie outside the core binding sequence (P1–P9), are solvent exposed and accessible to the TCR. Using a novel MHC class II:peptide binding assay, we defined the binding register for nine immunogenic epitopes to formally identify the flanking residues. Seven of the nine epitopes, restricted by H-2Ak, H-2Ag7, or H-2Ek, were found to generate T cells that were completely dependent on either P-1 or P11, with dependency on P-1 favored over P11. Such PFR dependency appears to be influenced by the type of amino acid exposed, in that residues that can form salt bridges or hydrogen bonds are favored over small or hydrophobic residues. Peptides containing alanine substitutions at P-1 or P11 in place of PFRs that mediate dependency were considerably less immunogenic and mediated a substantially reduced in vitro recall response to the native protein, inferring that PFR recognition increases immunogenicity. Our data suggest that PFR recognition is a common event characteristic of all MHC class II-restricted T cell responses. This key feature, which is not shared by MHC class I-restricted responses, may underlie the broad functional diversity displayed by MHC class II-restricted T cells.
Variability of Primary Production in an Antarctic Marine Ecosystem as Estimated Using a Multi-scale Sampling Strategy1

Abstract A major objective of the multidisciplinary Palmer Long Term Ecological Research (LTER) program is to obtain a comprehensive understanding of various components of the Antarctic marine ecosystem—the assemblage of plants, animals, ocean, sea ice, and island components south of the Antarctic Convergence. Phytoplankton production plays a key role in this polar ecosystem, and factors that regulate production include those that control cell growth (light, temperature, nutrients) and those that control cell accumulation rate and hence population growth (water column stability, advection, grazing, and sinking). Several of these factors are mediated by the annual advance and retreat of sea ice. In this study, we examine the results from nearly a decade (1991–2000) of ecological research in the western Antarctic Peninsula region. We evaluate the spatial and temporal variability of phytoplankton biomass (estimated as chlorophyll-a concentration) and primary production (determined in-situ aboard ship as well...
Effect of retrograde cavity preparations on root apexes

Ultrasonic cavity preparations in endodontic surgery has become a popular procedure with several advantages noted: Smaller cavities, deeper and cleaner preparations, less removal of surrounding bone needed for instrumentation and less removal of root apex dentin. Concern has been raised that lines of infraction have appeared in some instances when the ultrasonic instruments have been used. We wished to examine the result of cavity preparations in root apexes using five different methods: high and slow speed handpieces, sonic instruments, and ultrasonic instruments at two power settings, medium and high levels, respectively. The results showed that all the methods produced some infractions; the high power ultrasonics produced the most infractions while the lowest numbers were associated with the slow speed handpiece and ultrasonic instruments at the medium power setting.
On the Origin of Slavic Prefixed Imperfective Motion Verbs

AbstractThis paper discusses the prefixation of motion verbs in Late Common Slavic, as evidenced primarily in Old Church Slavic, and argues that the perfectivizing effect of prefixation was attenuated in determinate motion verbs. Usage of prefixed determinate motion verbs in Old Church Slavic texts in contexts where they arguably express ongoing actions is interpreted as relic usage from a time when they were anaspectual. An attenuation of the perfectivizing effect of prefixes on determinate motion verbs raises the question of the pairing of these verbs with prefixed imperfective motion verbs of the prichoditi type. It is argued that Regnell's (1944) theory of the creation of prichoditi-type imperfective motion verbs based on an analogy with determinate: indeterminate pairs of motion verbs is inaccurate, and that prichoditi-type motion verbs very possibly existed prior to their aspectual pairing with prefixed determinate motion verbs. Two possible paths of derivation of these verbs are then hypothesized: ...
Oral daily ibandronate: An effective and convenient therapy for skeletal complications in metastatic breast cancer

Abstract Bisphosphonate therapy reduces the relative risk of skeletal-related events in metastatic bone disease and is widely used in the long-term management of this condition. The efficacy of oral ibandronate, a third-generation high potency aminobisphosphonate, has been evaluated in patients with bone metastases from breast cancer. In a phase III trial (MF 4434), daily treatment with ibandronate 50 mg over 96 weeks significantly reduced the number of 12-week periods with new bone complications (the skeletal morbidity period rate [SMPR]) compared with placebo ( P= 0.037). These results were supported by a protocol-specified pooled analysis of this trial and another study of identical design (MF 4414), which demonstrated that overall SMPR and SMPR for bone radiotherapy were significantly reduced versus placebo ( P =0.004). The pooled analysis also revealed that oral ibandronate rapidly reduced and maintained bone pain below baseline over 2 years of treatment ( P =0.001 versus placebo) and significantly improved patient quality of life ( P =0.03). Oral ibandronate is therefore an effective bisphosphonate for the management of metastatic bone disease, and offers a convenient alternative to intravenous (i.v.) bisphosphonate therapy.
Drug-induced parkinsonism in the elderly

Drug-induced parkinsonism is primarily caused by drugs that interfere with dopamine stimulation. Antipsychotic drugs are the most common offenders, but drug-induced parkinsonism may be seen with many other drugs, such as antiemetics and certain calcium-channel blockers. These medications are widely used in the elderly. Unlike the first generation of antipsychotic drugs, all of which cause parkinsonism and other extrapyramidal side effects, atypical antipsychotics have motor side effects that are not uniform. Among the atypicals, only quetiapine and clozapine are not associated with drug-induced parkinsonism. Since drug-induced parkinsonism is frequently under-recognized, it may be devastating in an elderly person with already compromised gait.
The effects of some psychotropic drugs on conditioned avoidance and aggressive behaviors

Chlorpromazine, chlordiazepoxide, meprobamate, and pentobarbital were evaluated for their ability to alter 3 behaviors: 1. unconditioned escape, 2. conditioned avoidance, and 3. isolation-induced aggression, in the same species of mouse. A comparison of the dose of each drug necessary to alter these behaviors revealed quantitative differences between the drugs by which chlorpromazine and chlordiazepoxide may be differentiated from each other as well as from pentobarbital and meprobamate.
On the rate of convergence of simple and jump-adapted weak Euler schemes for Lévy driven SDEs

Abstract The paper studies the rate of convergence of a weak Euler approximation for solutions to possibly completely degenerate SDEs driven by Levy processes, with Holder-continuous coefficients. It investigates the dependence of the rate on the regularity of coefficients and driving processes and its robustness to the approximation of the increments of the driving process. A convergence rate is derived for some approximate jump-adapted Euler scheme as well.
Abnormalities of Skeletal Muscle Maturation in Brain Damaged Children: A Histochemical Study

SUMMARY Muscle biopsies were performed in eight children with cerebral hypotonia. While the gross architecture of the muscle is known to be normal in such cases, abnormalities in maturation were defined by histochemical techniques. The pathogenesis of the maturational abnormalities is not fully understood. However, the results suggest that this may be a useful technique in further delineating the relationship of cerebral factors in muscle integrity and development. resume Anomalies de la maturation des muscles du squelette chez les enfants au cerveau endommage. Une etude histoehimique Des biopsies de muscle ont ete pratiquees chez huit enfants atteints d'hypotonie cerebrale. Tandis que l'architecture generate du muscle est normale, comme c'est bien connu, des anomalies de la maturation ont ete decelees par les techniques histo-chimiques. La pathogenese des anomalies de maturation n'est pas completement expliquee. Pourtant les resultats obtenus suggerent que cette technique peut etre utile pour delimiter les rapports des facteurs cerebraux dans l'integrite et le developpement des muscles. ZUSAMMENFASSUNG Abnormitaten von Skelettmuskel-Reifung beigehirngeschadigten Kindern: Eine histochemische Studie Muskel-Biopsie wurde an acht Kindern mit zerebraler Hypotonie ausgefuhrt. Wahrend man weiss, dass der Muskelbau im Grossen und Ganzen normal ist in solchen Fallen, wurden Reifungs-Abnormitaten durch histochemische Verfahren festgestellt. Die Pathogenese der Reifungs-Abnormitaten versteht man nicht vollstandig. Jedoch weisen die Ergebnisse darauf hin, dass dieses ein nutzliches Verfahren in der weiteren Beschreibung von der Beziehung der zerebralen Faktoren bei Muskel-Integritat und Muskel-Entwicklung sein kann. RESUMEN Anortnalidades de la maduracion de los museulos sequeleticos en ninos afectos de dano cerebral: un estudio histoquimico Se hicieron biopsias de los museulos en ocho ninos afectos de hipotonia cerebral. Se sabe que en tales casos la arquitectura grosera del musculo es normal, y se determinaron anortnalidades de maduracion por medio de tecnicas histoquimicas. No se comprende bien la patogenesis de las anormalidades de maduracion. Los resultados sugieren, sin embargo, que esta tecnica puede ser util en la delineacion mas completa de las relaciones de factores cerebrales en la integridad y el desarrollo de los museulos.
Multilevel pattern recognition architectures for localization of mixed chemical/auditory stimuli

Abstract This paper discusses the results of our initial investigation into multilevel pattern recognition hierarchies for successfully localizing a source that simultaneously emits an auditory and a chemical stimulus. Using a single component chemical stimulus and a single frequency auditory stimulus, we are able to improve the accuracy of source localization from 82% and 83% for single mode chemical and auditory stimuli, respectively, to 96% when the two types of stimuli are evaluated in parallel to localize their source. Demonstrated improvements in localization performance for dual-mode analysis are accomplished using a multilevel pattern recognition consisting of artificial neural networks and fuzzy logic. Both preprocessing and pattern recognition algorithms are designed to be implemented in hardware for portable, compact real-time localization decisions.
Image-guided and intensity-modulated radiosurgery for patients with spinal metastasis.

BACKGROUND Radiosurgery can deliver a single, large radiation dose to a localized tumor using a stereotactic approach and hence, requires accurate and precise delivery of radiation to the target. Of the extracranial organ targets, the spine is considered a suitable site for radiosurgery, because there is minimal or no breathing-related organ movement. The authors studied spinal radiosurgery in patients with spinal metastases to determine its accuracy and precision. METHODS The spinal radiosurgery program was based on an image-guided and intensity-modulated, shaped-beam radiosurgical unit. It is equipped with micromultileaf collimators for beam shaping and radiation intensity modulation and with a noninvasive, frameless positioning device that uses infrared, passive marker technology together with corroborative image fusion of the digitally reconstructed image from computed tomography (CT) simulation and orthogonal X-ray imagery at the treatment position. These images were compared with the port films that were taken at the time of treatment to determine the accuracy of the isocenter position. Clinical feasibility was tested in 10 patients who had spinal metastasis with or without spinal cord compression. The patients were treated with fractionated external beam radiotherapy followed by single-dose radiosurgery as a boost (6–8 grays) to the most involved portion of the spine or to the site of spinal cord compression. RESULTS The accuracy for the isocenter was within 1.36 mm ± 0.11 mm, as measured by image fusion of the digitally reconstructed image from CT simulation and the port film. Clinically, the majority of patients had prompt pain relief within 2–4 weeks of treatment. Complete and partial recovery of motor function also was achieved in patients with spinal cord compression. The radiation dose to the spinal cord was minimal. The maximum dose of radiation to the anterior edge of the spinal cord within a transverse section, on average, was 50% of the prescribed dose. There was no acute radiation toxicity detected clinically during the mean follow-up of 6 months. CONCLUSIONS Image-guided, shaped-beam spinal radiosurgery is accurate and precise. Rapid clinical improvement of pain and neurologic function also may be achieved. The results indicate the potential of spinal radiosurgery in the treatment of patients with spinal metastasis, especially those with solitary sites of spine involvement, to increase the prospects of long-term palliation. Cancer 2003;97:2013–8. © 2003 American Cancer Society. DOI 10.1002/cncr.11296
Le nuove frontiere della ricerca in oncologia del sistema muscolo-scheletrico

Basic science research holds the promise of rounds of discovery that will help to overcome treatment barriers for primary bone tumors. The management of primary bone sarcomas has achieved a consistently high level around the world. The growth and development of international specialty organizations such as the European Musculoskeletal Oncology Society, Musculoskeletal Tumor Society, Asia-Pacific Tumor Society, International Society of Limb Salvage, and Connective Tissue Oncology Society, as well as of domestic orthopaedic and collaborative study groups, have made great strides in educating the medical and surgical communities about the best practices in the modern care of primary bone tumors. However, these marked improvements have brought us to a plateau over the past two decades. Unacceptably high rates of tumor resistance to chemotherapy and of local and distant relapse remain. Only incremental progress has been achieved in managing the three most common bone cancers: osteogenic sarcoma (OGS), Ewing’s sarcoma, and chondrosarcoma. The management of benign tumors is generally successful, but not universally so. For example, certain benign tumors, such as giant cell tumor and aneurysmal bone cyst, have persistently high local recurrence rates. Basic science research holds the key to solve the refractory clinical problems. Important strides have been made in understanding the etiology and factors contributing to the progression of these primary tumors. This article summarizes many of the exciting ideas and results in primary bone tumor research, focusing on the most common skeletal cancer: OGS.
Seryl-phosphorylation of soybean nodule sucrose synthase (nodulin-100) by a Ca2+-dependent protein kinase

Sucrose synthase (SS; EC 2.4.1.13) was radiolabeled in situ by incubating detached soybean nodules with 32Pi. Phosphoamino acid analysis indicated that SS was phosphorylated on a serine residue(s). In-vitro phosphorylation of purified nodule SS by desalted nodule extracts was Ca2+-dependent. This SS-kinase was partially purified (approximately 2200-fold) from nodules harvested from illuminated plants. The molecular mass of the SS-kinase was about 55,000 on a Superdex 75 size-exclusion column or in a denaturing autophosphorylation gel. With either purified nodule SS or Syntide 2 as substrate, exogenous calmodulin and phosphatidylserine showed little or no effect on the in-vitro activity of this partially purified protein kinase. However, its activity was inhibited by W-7. The purified nodule SS-kinase (or CDPK) phosphorylated nodule PEP carboxylase (PEPC; EC 4.1.1.31) in the presence of Ca2+. In contrast, a partially purified nodule PEPC-kinase preparation was incapable of phosphorylating nodule SS. Unlike nodule PEPC [Zhang et al. (1995) Plant Physiol. 108, 1561-1568], the phosphorylation state of SS is not likely modulated in planta by photosynthate supply from the shoots.
State-dependent fragility curves of bridges based on vibration measurements

Abstract This study provides a framework that integrates bridge condition (or state) with vulnerability assessment of bridges under external loading. The proposed framework is demonstrated by developing state-dependent fragility curves of a two-span reinforced concrete bridge. Condition of the bridge at various post-loading stages are identified using vibration measurement data obtained from a series of shake table tests. Extended Kalman filter method is used for such identification of bridge condition in terms of effective stiffness values. Identified stiffness values are employed in finite element models of the bridge to represent damaged bridge conditions at different phases of the experimental program. For each bridge condition, time history analyses are performed with a suite of earthquake ground motions and state-dependent seismic fragility curves of the bridge are developed. Result shows substantial increase in bridge seismic vulnerability as condition of the bridge degrades during successive shake table tests. It is further shown that the developed state-dependent fragility curves can successfully predict bridge reliability for experimental loading stages.
Dynamic buckling and recovery of thin cylindrical shape memory shells

Shape-memory alloys can sustain relatively large strains and fully recover without noticeable residual strains. This is referred to as superelasticity. We have been studying quasi-static and dynamic buckling of relatively thin circular cylindrical shells consisting of shape-memory alloys in order to understand the response when used as the core of the sandwich structures. The work consists of experimental characterization of the buckling process, as well as numerical simulation. For comparison, we have also studied both dynamic and quasi-static buckling of aluminum tubes of similar dimensions. This presentation will focus on numerical simulation of dynamic buckling of these tubes and correlation with experimental observations.
Do inflammatory pathways drive melanomagenesis

Inflammatory pathways serve to protect the host and promote tissue healing/repair; however, over-activation or dysregulation can be pathological with unintended consequences including malignant progression. A correlation between inflammation and cancer has been well established, and anti-inflammatory medications have been shown to be chemopreventive in certain malignancies. Data are now becoming available that outline an inflammatory pathway that may have a critical role in melanomagenesis. ATP-regulated membrane channels/receptors P2X7 and PANX1 have been directly implicated in melanoma tumor growth. Among other potential effects, opening of the P2X7/PANX1 channel results in activation of the NALP3 inflammasome, which in turn leads to caspase-1 activation and increased levels of activated IL-1β. Elevated levels of caspase-1 and IL-1β have been correlated with melanoma progression, and inhibitors of the inflammasome, caspase and IL-1β activity have all been shown to inhibit melanoma growth. Among many other potential actions, IL-1β increases cyclooxygenase-2 expression leading to local increases in inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). Anti-inflammatory medications targeting the end of this pathway have had positive results for certain cancers but overall remain mixed for melanoma. A better understanding of the pathways and appropriate intervention points may help direct future therapies. In this viewpoint, we will review data and attempt to model an inflammatory pathway that may be critical for melanomagenesis and propose future directions for exploration.
Evolution of chemical structure during silver photodiffusion into chalcogenide glass thin films

The change of chemical structure resulting after X-ray and photo-induced silver diffusion into chalcogenide glass (ChG) thin films is monitored by high resolution X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). As 40 S 60 and Ge 30 Se 70 thin films, which are based on pyramids and tetrahedral structural units, are investigated as model materials. Survey, core level (As 3d, S 2p, Ge 3d, Ge 2p, Se 3d, Ag 3d 5/2 , O 1s, C 1s) and valence band spectra have been recorded and analyzed. Reference point for the binding energy is established by the subsequent deposition of thin gold film on top of the measured samples. The chemical structure gradually changes during diffusion of silver in all the samples. The mechanism of change depends on the chemical composition, thickness of the diffused silver layer and conditions of irradiation. It is revealed that surface oxygen can play important role in the Ag photodiffusion process, leading to phase separation on the surface of the films. Photodiffusion of Ag into As 40 S 60 film leads to the formation of a uniform ternary phase and arsenic oxides on the surface. The formation of ethane-like Ge 2 (S 1/2 ) 6 units together with germanium oxidation are the main outcomes of X-ray induced Ag diffusion into Ge 30 Se 70 film.
Percolation Times in Two-Dimensional Models For Excitable Media

The three-color Greenberg--Hastings model (GHM) is a simple cellular automaton model for an excitable medium. Each site on the lattice $Z^2$ is initially assigned one of the states 0, 1 or 2. At each tick of a discrete--time clock, the configuration changes according to the following synchronous rule: changes $1\to 2$ and $2\to 0$ are automatic, while an $x$ in state 0 may either stay in the same state or change to 1, the latter possibility occurring iff there is at least one representative of state 1 in the local neighborhood of $x$. Starting from a product measure with just 1's and 0's such dynamics quickly die out (turn into 0's), but not before 1's manage to form infinite connected sets. A very precise description of this ``transient percolation'' phenomenon can be obtained when the neighborhood of $x$ consists of 8 nearest points, the case first investigated by S. Fraser and R. Kapral. In addition, first percolation times for related monotone models are addressed.
Therapeutic management of intracystic papillary carcinoma of the breast : the roles of radiation and endocrine therapy

Abstract Background The role of radiation and endocrine therapy in the treatment of intracystic papillary carcinoma (IPC) remains unclear. The aim of the current study was to review the management of IPC in order to determine factors associated with use of adjuvant therapies. Methods A retrospective review of our surgical and pathology databases from 1995–2006 identified 45 women with IPC. These patients were further divided into those with pure IPC (n = 21), IPC with associated ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) (n = 18), and IPC with associated microinvasion with or without DCIS (n = 6). Patient characteristics were compared between groups using the chi-square test. Results Patients with IPC and microinvasion were more likely to undergo an axillary staging procedure (6/6, 100%) compared to patients with pure IPC (6/21, 29%) or IPC with DCIS (5/18, 28%) ( P P P P Conclusions In our patient population, those patients with IPC and associated DCIS or microinvasion are treated with adjuvant radiation and endocrine therapy on the basis of this associated pathology. The use of adjuvant radiation and/or endocrine therapy should be considered in patients with pure IPC who are of young age (
Presenilin Interactions and Alzheimer's Disease

In their article “Genetics of aging” (Advances in Aging Research, 17 Oct., [p. 407][1]), Caleb E. Finch and Rudolph E. Tanzi cite our observation that the protein β-catenin interacts with the protein presenilin 1 (PS1), as does δ-catenin, a novel member of the Armadillo gene family that is
Microfoundations of state-socialism and patterns of economic transformation

Abstract The strength or weakness of the microfoundations of state-socialist systems provides an important explanation for the divergent patterns of economic transformation in the former socialist countries in the last decade. This paper argues that institutional arrangements that structure the incentives for local governments, firms, and individuals merit a fresh look in studying why rapid growth accompanied economic transition in some state-socialist countries while severe recession followed reform in others. It also attempts to link these two factors to the emerging political realignments in these countries.
Covalent Modification of Catalytic Sites on Membrane‐bound Beef Heart Mitochondrial ATPase by 2‐Azido‐adenine Nucleotides

Incubation in the dark of 32P-labeled 2-azido-adenine nucleotides with submitochondrial particles from beef heart led to tight binding of the label by membrane-bound F1. That is, the label remained with the particles following two passages through centrifuge columns. After removal of free nucleotides and ultraviolet irradiation, the radioactive label was covalently bound exclusively to the β subunit of the ATPase. Extraction of the modified enzyme from the membrane with chloroform followed by tryptic digestion and separation of peptides by reverse-phase high-pressure liquid chromatography indicated that the radioactive label had been inserted into a peptide fragment that included part of the catalytic site. Covalent modification of catalytic sites by 2-azido-ADP was accompanied by parallel inhibition of both ATP synthesis and ATP hydrolysis by submitochondrial particles. Estimation of the likely amount of F1 participating in the reaction and extrapolation to complete inhibition suggested that modification of no more than a single site was sufficient to block both reactions. The results support suggestions of cooperative interactions between catalytic sites as well as a single catalytic pathway for both enzymic reactions.
EDGAR Extraction System: An Automated Approach to Analyze Employee Stock Option Disclosures

Past alternative accounting choices and new accounting standards for stock options have hindered analysts' ability to compare corporate financial statements. Financial analysts need specific information about stock options in order to accurately assess the financial position of companies. Finding this information is often a tedious task. The SEC's EDGAR database is the richest source of financial statement information on the Web. However, the information is stored in text or HTML files making it difficult to search and extract data. Information Extraction (IE), the process of finding and extracting useful information in unstructured text, can effectively help users find vital financial information. This paper examines the development and use of the EDGAR Extraction System (EES), a customized, automated system that extracts relevant information about employee stock options from financial statement disclosure notes on the EDGAR database.
Potomac Technical and Processing Librarians Annual Meeting: RDA or Not—Here We Come!

Potomac Technical and Processing Librarians (PTPL), founded in 1923 as the Maryland, Virginia, and District of Columbia Regional Group of Cataloguers and Classifiers, is a professional association ...
Relation of Seizures After Cardiac Surgery in Early Infancy to Neurodevelopmental Outcome

Background —The outcome of infants who have transient seizures after open heart surgery has not been studied. Using the database of the Boston Circulatory Arrest Study involving 171 children with D-transposition of the great arteries, we explored the relationship between early postoperative clinical and EEG seizures and neurodevelopmental outcomes at ages 1 and 21/2 years. Methods and Results —At 1 year, children returned for developmental and neurological evaluations and MRI. Parent-completed developmental questionnaires were collected at 2 1/2 years of age. At 1 year, children with early postoperative seizures had lower Psychomotor Development Index (motor function) scores (clinical seizures: 12.9 mean difference [MD]; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.2 to 23.6; P =.02; EEG seizures: 13.3 MD; 95% CI, 6.8 to 19.7; P <.001). Mental Developmental Index scores of children with clinical or EEG seizures were also lower, but the differences were not statistically significant. Infants with seizures were more likely to have an abnormal neurological examination (clinical seizures: 78% versus 31%; P =.008; EEG seizures: 58% versus 34%; P =.04). Children with EEG seizures were more likely to have MRI abnormalities (43% versus 13%, P =.002). At age 21/2, children with EEG seizures had lower scores in several areas of function. Conclusions —In infants undergoing the arterial switch operation for correction of D-transposition of the great arteries, transient postoperative clinical and EEG seizures were associated with worse neurodevelopmental outcomes at ages 1 and 2 1/2 years as well as neurological and MRI abnormalities at 1 year of age. The occurrence of such seizures may provide an early sign of brain injury with neurological and developmental sequelae.
Communicator style and teacher effectiveness: Adult learners versus traditional undergraduate students 1

This study examined the relationship between teacher communicator style and teacher effectiveness in samples of traditional undergraduate students and non‐traditional adult learners. Different communicator style variables predicted teacher effectiveness in the two groups. Teacher communicator style accounted for more variation in teacher effectiveness in the adult learners (64%) than in the traditional undergraduates (43%).
Parental underestimates of adolescent risk behavior: a randomized, controlled trial of a parental monitoring intervention

Abstract Objectives: To develop and evaluate an intervention (ImPACT) seeking to increase monitoring (supervision and communication) by parents and guardians of African-American youth regarding high risk and protective behaviors; and to develop an instrument to assess parental monitoring, the Parent–Adolescent Risk Behavior Concordance Scale. Design/Intervention: This research was a randomized, controlled longitudinal study. Baseline (preintervention), and 2 and 6 months postintervention data were obtained via a talking MacIntosh computer regarding youth and parent perceptions of youth involvement in 10 risk behaviors, parental monitoring and youth–parent communication, and condom-use skills. Intervention parents and youth received the ImPACT program and a video emphasizing parental supervision and discussion, followed by a structured discussion and role-play emphasizing key points. Control parents and youth received an attention-control program on goal-setting, which also included an at-home video and discussion. Participants: A total of 237 parents and one each of their youth (ages 12–16 years) recruited from eight public housing developments located in a city in the mid-Atlantic region. Results: Similarity of youth and parental reporting on the Parent–Adolescent Risk Behavior Concordance Scale was positively correlated with protective behaviors, perceived parental monitoring, and good parent–youth communication. At baseline, parents significantly underestimated their youth's risk behaviors. However, 2 and 6 months postintervention, the ImPACT program increased similarity of reports by youth and their parents of youth involvement in risk and protective behaviors. In addition, at 6 months postintervention, intervention (compared to control) youths and parents also demonstrated higher levels of condom-use skills. Conclusion: Parental monitoring interventions such as ImPACT should be given to parents in conjunction with more traditional youth-centered risk-reduction interventions.
Multilayer X-Ray Mirrors, a First Step Towards the Custom Design of New Material Properties

Soft x-ray reflectivities up to a factor 10 4 larger than those of the best homogeneous materials have been obtained with multilayers coatings. Thickness control and boundary definition has been achieved on an atomic scale with amorphous films. We will review design, fabrication, performance and characterization of the coatings and discuss possibilities to extent these methods to the improvement of other material properties.
Numerical Investigation of Hydrocarbon Enrichment of Process Gas Mixtures by Permeation through Polymeric Membranes

In membrane-based gaseous separations, a consensus on the distribution of the components of the permeate stream in the immediate membrane vicinity has yet to be reached and the possibility of an underestimation of selective gas permeance due to lack of gas mixing on the permeate side exists. In this work, a numerical study of the permeation of ethylene and propylene in their binary mixtures with nitrogen through a composite poly(dimethylsiloxane) coated polysulfone membrane was performed. Continuity and momentum equations, along with gas compressibility and permeance properties for individual species of the gas mixture, were introduced into a comprehensive computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model. Simulation results showed that irrespective of the stage-cut, gases with higher selectivity were well mixed in the vicinity of the membrane on the permeate side.
An efficient method for enrichment of histidyl-tRNA synthetase (Jo-1 antigen) from HeLa cells

A rapid method has been developed for enrichment of Jo-1 antigen (histidyl-tRNA synthetase) from HeLa cells. The enzyme has been prepared from post-ribosomal supernatant by successive chromatography with Blue Sepharose and Poly-U-Sepharose, followed by DEAE-high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). By this method, enzyme could be obtained within 4 days of HeLa cell harvesting, with 40% recovery of the enzymatic activity. The apparent native molecular size of the enzyme as determined by HPLC-size exclusion column chromatography was approximately 120 kDa. Under denaturing conditions using SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis the enzyme subunit size was approximately 55 kDa. The antigen preparation, although not homogeneous, was found to react only with anti-Jo-1 positive antisera when tested by immunoblotting with many patient sera of defined autoantibody specificities, making the preparation useful for immunologic studies of anti-Jo-1 antibodies.
Preparation of high temperature superconductor-metal wire composites

The feasibility of preparing high temperature superconductor-metal wire composites by pulling metal wires through melts having the nominal compositions Bi/sub 2/Sr/sub 2/CaCu/sub 2/O/sub 8/ and Bi/sub 1.8/Sr/sub 1.8/Ca/sub 1.2/Ca/sub 2.2/O/sub 8/ was studied. Platinum wires of 100 {mu}m diameter or platinum - 10% rhodium wires of 25 {mu}m diameter were used. Dense continuous ceramic coatings formed on the wires in all cases at pull rates of 5, 10, and 20 mm/hr. Coatings on the 100{mu}m wires ranged between 8-10 {mu}m in thickness and were superconducting with a Tc of 87{sup 0}{Kappa} except for the inner 2 {mu}m region adjacent to the wire. Coatings on the 25 {mu}m diameter wires were 2-3 {mu}m thick and were not superconducting. Platinum contamination may account for the presence of non-superconducting phases.
Changes in the zooplankton of Onondaga Lake (NY), 1969–1978

Abstract The zooplankton of polluted, hypereutrophic Onondaga Lake (located in metropolitan Syracuse, NY) were reinvestigated during 1978 to identify changes in the community since 1969. The reduction in large daphnids since 1969 has been attributed to size-selective predation by the obligate planktivore, Alosa pseudoharengus , which has become re-established in the lake. A 10- to 20-fold increase in zooplankton biomass has occurred since 1969, which may have been in response to changes in phytoplankton composition and/or reductions in metal pollution resulting from lake reclamation efforts. Increases in grazing on phytoplankton, phytoplankton turnover rates and nutrient recycling are implied by the elevated levels of zooplankton biomass. These zooplankton-phytoplankton interactions may be critical to future reclamation efforts directed at reducing external nutrient loading and primary productivity.
Mycotic diseases of reptiles

Numerous myotic diseases have been reported in reptiles. Although the integumentary system is most commonly affected, systemic disease also occurs. The fungi commonly isolated from lesions in reptiles include Paecilomyces, Penicillium, Fusarium, Geotrichium, Mucor , and Aspergillus . Systemic mycotic diseases such as histoplasmosis, coccidiodomycosis, and cryptococcosis are rarely seen in reptiles. This review includes many of the known reports of mycoses in reptiles. Proper techniques for sampling and fungal culture are also presented. Based on the limited information in the literature, use of appropriate chemotherapeutics is discussed.
Effect of ractopamine hydrochloride (Optaflexx) dose on live animal performance, carcass characteristics and tenderness in early weaned beef steers.

Abstract Study objectives were to evaluate ractopamine hydrochloride's (RAC) effect on performance, carcass characteristics, and tenderness of early weaned beef steers. Steers were assigned to a control diet (0 mg RAC·steer − 1 ·d − 1 ), 200 mg RAC mg·steer − 1 ·d − 1 , or 300 mg RAC·steer − 1 ·d − 1 . Steers fed 200 and 300 mg RAC·steer − 1 ·d − 1 gained 14.84 kg and 14.57 kg more live weight and produced 13.22 and 14.90 kg more hot carcass weight, respectively, than controls. Feed conversions for steers fed 200 or 300 mg RAC·steer − 1 ·d − 1 of RAC increased 45.2% and 47.3% and average daily gain increased 55.5% and 54.5% compared to controls, respectively. Feeding either dose of RAC increased (P 0.05) over 14 days of postmortem aging. Results of this study confirm that RAC increases weight gain and feed efficiency, minimally impacts carcass quality and has manageable impacts on tenderness when fed at either 200 or 300 mg steer − 1 ·d − 1 .
Theoretical and Experimental Studies of the Zwitterion ⇌ Neutral Form Equilibrium of Ampholytes in Pure Solvents and Mixtures

The equilibrium ratios for the zwitterionic and neutral forms of the nicotinic and isonicotinic acids (3- and 4-COOH pyridines) have been determined by spectrophotometry in mixtures of water with methanol, tetrahydrofuran and dioxane. The zwitterionic form of the solute is the prevalent structure in mixtures with at least 60% water. In pure organic solvents, the neutral form was found in almost 100%. Ab initio calculations at the MP2/6-311++G**//MP2/6-31G* level predict that the zwitterion is higher in free energy by 33−35 kcal/mol than the neutral tautomer at T = 298 K and p = 1 atm in the gas phase. In contrast, relative solvation free energies, as calculated by the free energy perturbation method in Monte Carlo simulations, are −36, −27, and −15 kcal/mol in water, methanol, and tetrahydrofuran, respectively. The solvent effects for overbalancing the relative internal free energy of the zwitterion and stabilizing this tautomer are large enough only in water and in aqueous solution with water fraction ab...
Molecular aptamer beacons for real-time protein recognition.

One of the most pressing problems facing those attempting to understand the regulation of gene expression and translation is the necessity to monitor protein production in a variety of metabolic states. Thus far, there is no easy solution that will either identify or quantitate proteins in real time. Here we introduce a novel protein probe, molecular aptamer beacon (MAB), for real time protein recognition and quantitative analysis. The MAB combines the signal transduction mechanism of molecular beacons and the molecular recognition specificity of aptamers. An MAB based on a thrombin-binding aptamer was prepared as a model to demonstrate the feasibility. Significant fluorescent signal change was observed when MAB was bound to thrombin, which is attributed to a significant conformational change in MAB from a loose random coil to a compact unimolecular quadruplex. The MAB recognizes its target protein with high specificity and high sensitivity (112 picomolar thrombin concentration) in homogeneous solutions. Ratiometric imaging has been conducted with MAB labeled with two fluorophores, which makes it feasible for protein quantitation in living specimen. The unique properties of the MAB will enable the development of a class of protein probes for real time protein tracing in living specimen and for efficient biomedical diagnosis in homogeneous solutions.
OpenSHM: Open Architecture Design of Structural Health Monitoring Software in Wireless Sensor Nodes

Wireless sensor networks have been receiving an increasing interest in the field of structural health monitoring to provide rich sets of real-time information of complex structures. Due to the bandwidth and power limitation of wireless sensor networks, distributed data processing, damage detection, and decision making are appropriate for the development of wireless structural health monitoring systems, which requires wireless sensor units equipped with data processing and damaged detection algorithms. This paper proposes an open software architecture design approach for the implementation of structural health monitoring algorithms in wireless sensor nodes. The open software architecture design approach promotes software reuse and welcomes the contributions from research communities.
Thelytoky in the American Dog Tick, Dermacentor Variabilis (Acari: Ixodidae)

Parthenogenetically derived Dermacentor variabilis ticks were reared to adults. Only 5.6% of the eggs deposited by 46 virgin females hatched, and all adults reared from these eggs (32) were females. The modal chromosome number of these females was 22, and oogenesis appeared normal. Only 6 of these virgin females laid eggs, from which only 9 larvae hatched (0.2%). All of these larvae died before or during feeding. The probable mechanism for the production of the thelytokous eggs is endomitosis.
The Past and Future Contradictions and Challenges of Labor Leadership

Labor leaders of the future face the same dilemmas as those of the past: how to build large, militant unions while avoiding their own co-optation by the establishment.
Effects of Tetraethylammonium and Manganese on Mesenteric Vasoconstrictor Escape

SummaryNorepinephrine (NE) induced either phasic or tonic contractions in isolated rings of cat mesenteric arteries. Tetraethylammonium (TEA), 0.6-120 mM enhanced the peak contractile response to NE but reduced the steady-state response. Manganese, 0.06-0.12 mM, inhibited the peak NE response with no effect on steady-state force development. TEA-potentiation was maximal at 2-20 mM. No potentiation occurred in calcium-free solutions or when the vessel was depolarized by high external potassium concentrations. These observations provide circumstantial evidence that mesenteric vasoconstriction may be associated with “calcium-spike” activity and that vasoconstrictor escape may be due to fading of this activity.
The nonstationary ideal in the ℛmax extension

The forcing construction ℙmax, invented by W. Hugh Woodin, produces a model whose collection of subsets of ω1 is in some sense maximal. In this paper we study the Boolean algebra induced by the nonstationary ideal on ω1 in this model. Among other things we show that the induced quotient does not have a simply definable form. We also prove several results about saturation properties of the ideal in this extension.
Social capital and sociological resilience in megacities context

Purpose – During the last few decades social resilience and social vulnerability have been two crucial sociological concepts for everyone involved in crisis and disaster management. The fundamental purpose in the present analysis is based on the consideration of resilience from a sociological perspective and the notion of social capital, its proper features, dynamics and processes within different groups of people involved in a disaster process.Design/methodology/approach – All these social components could be evaluated as social indicators of vulnerability and resilience according to the sociological approach and its main theories about social capital and resilience, social and methodological implications. The operative context of this theoretical reflection has been constituted by megacities, considered as the “new” social space where, nowadays, major social relations and risk reduction actions take place through a collaborative pattern not based on a top down organizational model.Findings – Attention i...