cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Artificial Intelligence: With an Introduction to Machine Learning, Second Edition

The first edition of this popular textbook, Contemporary Artificial Intelligence, provided an accessible and student friendly introduction to AI. This fully revised and expanded update, Artificial Intelligence: With an Introduction to Machine Learning, Second Edition, retains the same accessibility and problem-solving approach, while providing new material and methods. The book is divided into five sections that focus on the most useful techniques that have emerged from AI. The first section of the book covers logic-based methods, while the second section focuses on probability-based methods. Emergent intelligence is featured in the third section and explores evolutionary computation and methods based on swarm intelligence. The newest section comes next and provides a detailed overview of neural networks and deep learning. The final section of the book focuses on natural language understanding. Suitable for undergraduate and beginning graduate students, this class-tested textbook provides students and other readers with key AI methods and algorithms for solving challenging problems involving systems that behave intelligently in specialized domains such as medical and software diagnostics, financial decision making, speech and text recognition, genetic analysis, and more.
Considerations for Timing of Defect Reconstruction in Cutaneous Melanoma of the Head and Neck

The objective of this study is to identify the incidence and characteristics of cases with positive margins on wide local excision for cutaneous melanoma of the head and neck (CMHN) and therefore provide a potential basis for selectively delaying reconstruction pending final histological clearance of melanoma. A systematic review of English language articles was performed on studies retrieved from PubMed and Web of Science. Original investigations published between July 1999 and June 2018 reporting on margin status of CMHN wide local excision specimens were included in the review. The incidence of positive margins after definitive resection for cutaneous melanoma in the literature ranges from 6 to 20.9%. The incidence is higher in cases of advanced patient age, diagnosis by shave biopsy, lentigo maligna melanoma subtype, desmoplastic subtype, tumor thickness, and ulceration. Delayed reconstruction remains the most oncologically sound decision, allowing for interpretation of margin status on paraffin-embedded tissue sections. However, resection and the resultant defect closure in a single stage is more expedient and potentially a more efficient use of resources. The risk-benefit ratio of immediate versus delayed reconstruction must be considered for each case. The incidence of positive margins is higher in cases of advanced patient age, diagnosis by shave biopsy, lentigo maligna melanoma subtype, desmoplastic subtype, increasing tumor thickness, and the presence of ulceration; delayed reconstruction should be strongly considered in these cases.
Biological Roots of Human Conflict, and its Resolution via Cultural Evolution

Les arrels biologiques dels conflictes humans venen de lluny en la seva evolucio i son, per tant, profundes. Per sort, algunes de les nostres tendencies humanes mes destructives poden ser mitigades o eliminades mitjancant l’evolucio cultural. Pero ates que la cultura es per a la biologia el mateix que el programari es per al maquinari, cal entendre correctament la naturalesa biologica dels conflictes per a poder proporcionar solucions, a mes de bastir unes cultures de pau duradores. Aquest article se centra en les arrels biologiques dels conflictes humans. Una continuacio seva giraria al voltant de la resolucio de conflictes mitjancant l’evolucio cultural.
Results from a 14-Year Intervention Program Designed to Impact Pursuit of a PhD in Research among Underrepresented Students in STEM Disciplines

Minority research and training (MRT) programs have been used across U.S. colleges and universities as a method to close the educational achievement gap and generate a highly skilled and diverse workforce. Previous studies have improved our understanding of the need to diversify the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines and the various interventions that have been developed to support these efforts. However, there is still little evidence about what strategies are most effective in promoting interest, continuation, and matriculation into STEM graduate programs among underrepresented groups. The study herein utilized a case study design with a mixed methods approach to evaluate the program impacts and outcomes of an MRT program at a research-intensive institution in the southern part of the U.S., and for program replication. This evaluation study examines the types of activities and services provided, the measurable outcomes of those activities and services, the resources used to deliver the services, the practical problems encountered, and the ways in which problems were resolved.
Flower Interaction Subsystem for a Precision Pollination Robot

Robotic pollinators not only can aid farmers by providing more cost effective and stable methods for pollinating plants but also benefit crop production in environments not suitable for bees such as greenhouses, growth chambers, and in outer space. Robotic pollination requires a high degree of precision and autonomy but few systems have addressed both of these aspects in practice. In this paper, a fully autonomous robot is presented, capable of precise pollination of individual small flowers. Experimental results show that the proposed system is able to achieve a 93.1% detection accuracy and a 76.9% ‘pollination’ success rate tested with high-fidelity artificial flowers.
Fundamental formulation of electrodynamics revisited, and the precision of quantum electrodynamics

It was shown recently that unambiguous description of electromagnetic environments requires electromagnetic potentials; knowledge only of electric and magnetic fields is insufficient and can lead to error. Consequences of that demonstration are here applied to propagating fields, such as laser fields. Gauge invariance is replaced by symmetry preservation. This alteration makes it possible to understand how the known failure of the convergence of perturbation expansions in quantum electrodynamics (QED) follows from the fact that QED is incomplete; it does not contain its strong-field limit. Inherent in that demonstration are the strong-field coupling constant and the strong-field alteration of the mass shell of a charged particle. A variety of physically important consequences ensue, including the loss of guidance from Feynman diagrams. The meaning of tests for the precision of QED is questioned since such evaluations apply only to perturbative QED, but not to extensions required for complete QED.
10 – Calcium Homeostasis

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the process of calcium homeostasis. The calcium ion, together with magnesium, is the most prevalent divalent ion in the mammalian body. Calcium is involved in a large number of physiologically important processes, which include the regulation of muscular contraction, excitation–contraction coupling in muscle, excitation–secretion coupling in nerve, excitation in nerve and muscle, nerve impulse transmission, and blood clotting. In addition, calcium is of significance in a number of metabolic events, such as glycogenolysis in muscle and gluconeogenesis in kidney. Calcium also activates several enzyme systems, including certain ATPases, lipases, and the like. Most of the reactions involving calcium are specific for the element, although other alkaline earths can be substituted with varying (and unpredictable) success in some of these reactions. The total amounts of calcium involved in these many and varied processes are very small. The chapter also discusses a model of plasma calcium regulation and presents an analysis of the effects of steady-state loads and acute loads.
Immunotherapy and Systemic Treatment of Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas (cSCC) represent one of the most diagnosed non-melanoma skin cancers and its incidence is increasing globally. Whereas early stage and low risk cSCC is typically treated with surgery, and in some cases other localized therapeutic modalities, locally advanced or metastatic cSCC is a cause of significant morbidity and mortality that requires a different approach to therapy. Therapeutic attempts at treating advanced cSCC include a multi-disciplinary approach with considerations for surgery, radiation, and systemic therapies. In this review, we will discuss the various systemic therapies that have been trialed for advanced cSCC, beginning with the early cytotoxic and platinum-based agents as well as their corresponding limitations. We will then review the targeted approaches using EGFR inhibitors prior to discussing the more recent immunotherapeutics that have shown good tumor responses in this often-lethal disease.
Metastases of Intracranial Tumors

It is generally believed that intracranial tumors do not metastasize outside the cranial and spinal dura mater. Metastases inside the dura—in the lepto-meninges and in the substance of the brain and spinal cord—are known to occur frequently with medulloblastomas and occasionally with other malignant intracranial tumors. The more benign gliomas, such as astrocytoma and oligodendroglioma, have not until recent years been considered capable of giving rise to metastases. The report of Cairns and Russell (1) has been especially stimulating in this respect. We are presenting in this paper a case of medulloblastoma of the cerebellum with definite metastatic nodules in the bodies of the vertebrae. We have also reviewed the literature and collected the cases of metastases of intracranial tumors. Metastases Outside the Craniospinal Dura The older literature contains occasional reports of distant metastases of intracranial tumors. These publications appeared prior to the present detailed classification of intracranial tumors, when a large proportion of such growths were called “sarcoma,” and prior to the recognition of the frequency and metastatic potencies of such tumors as carcinoma of the lung. None of these reported cases appears to be a certain example of metastasizing intracranial tumor. Typical of such reports are those of Westphal (2) and Olivecrona (3).
MATHEMATICAL COMPARISON OF THREE TRITIUM SYSTEM EFFLUENT HTO CLEANUP SYSTEMS

It is important that air emissions from tritium systems be kept as low as reasonably achievable. Thus, over the years a number of gas detritiation systems have been developed. Recently there has been interest in lower-cost, simpler systems which do not convert HT to the much more hazardous HTO form. Examples of such systems are (1) a bubbler/dehumidifier, (2) a bubbler/collector, and (3) an adsorber/collector. A computer model of each configuration was written and run. Each system's performance, including tritium buildup in liquid water, and tritium exhausted to the environment, are presented and compared.
Marshall McLuhan and the Book: A Reconsideration

In this essay, I look briefly at the work of Marshall McLuhan, particularly the Gutenberg galaxy, in which he discusses the nature of the book and the print medium through which it is produced. McLuhan’s views on the book are contextualized in terms of his other works, including his famous Understanding Media, which was published after the Gutenberg galaxy. McLuhan’s sense of himself as an avant garde intellectual and analyst of culture is evaluated, and found to be less convincing than a more nuanced view which sees him as both backward- and forward-looking in his work.
A wireless power transmission power system for microgravity crystal processing satellites

The application of wireless power transmission to satellite systems offers several advantages for payloads requiring a pristine space environment. By removing the sources of acceleration associated with onboard power systems such as solar tracking photovoltaic arrays, eliminating station keeping and reducing thermal shock from eclipse, a more benign microgravity environment can be achieved. Active control systems, such as magnetic suspension, which have been developed to reduce the vibration acceleration to sensitive payloads may not be adequate in all applications. The use of wireless power transmission permits the energy receiving satellite to float freely in space while the energy generating satellite supplies power and maintains its relative position. The elements of a wireless power transmission system are detailed and contrasted with conventional onboard satellite power systems. Three technologies are considered for the transmission system: high efficiency lamps, lasers and microwave systems.
The Purpose of Legal Theory: Some Problems with Joseph Raz’s View

This article seeks to clarify Joseph Raz’s contention that the task of the legal theorist is to explain the nature of law, rather than the concept of law. For Raz, to explain the nature of law is to explain the necessary properties that constitute it, those which if absent law would cease to be what it is. The first issue arises regarding his ambiguous usage of the expression “necessary property”. Concurrently Raz affirms that the legal theorist has the following tasks: (a) explain the essential properties of that which the concept of law refers to, which exists independently from any concept of law; (b) explain the essential properties of law given our concept of law. After trying to dissolve the ambiguity of Raz’s argument, I conclude that based on his methodological commitments the only possible task for a legal philosopher would be conceptual analysis, understood as the task of explaining our concept of law.
Transbilayer asymmetry of pyrene mobility in human spherocytic red cell membranes.

The diffusion-dependent formation of pyrene excimers (excited dimers) was studied in normal and spherocytic red cell membranes. Pyrene emission was alternatively quenched in either bilayer half by non radiative energy transfer to haemoglobin. Pyrene excimer to monomer fluorescence intensity ratio, I'/I, was 0.35 +/- 0.03 (S.E.) in washed red blood cells obtained from normal donors (n = 8) and 0.45 + 0.03 (n = 13) in the corresponding isolated, haemoglobin-free resealed membranes (P less than 0.02). In the spherocytic condition the respective values were 0.28 +/- 0.01 (n = 9) and 0.53 +/- 0.03 (n = 9), P less than 0.001. In contrast to the decrease of I'/I in red cells as compared to isolated membranes, being 22% in normal cells and 47% in spherocytic ones, haemoglobin added to the exofacial side of isolated membranes, respectively, reduced I'/I by 18% and 5%. In normal red cell membranes, pyrene mobility appears to be higher in the inner monolayer than in the outer one. In spherocytic membranes our results indicate an enhanced transmembrane asymmetry in lipid monolayer fluidity, probably due to a defect of the membrane protein skeleton organization.
Cytoplasmic transfer of microtubule organizing centers in mouse tissue culture cells

Abstract A chloramphenicol-resistant, aminopterin-sensitive cell line (AMT) derived from a mouse mammary tumor MT-29240 was enucleated, and the cytoplasts were fused with nucleated chloramphenicol-sensitive, HAT-resistant SV40 3T3 mouse cells. The resulting cytoplasmic hybrids (cybrids) were selected for their resistance to chloramphenicol and the chromosome complement of the SV40 3T3 cells. In addition to transfer of chloramphenicol resistance, these cybrid clones, as studied in the electron microscope, contained the intracisternal A particle phenotype characteristic of only the AMT cells. The cytoplasmic microtubule complex (CMTC) in these cybrids was also studied and appears to resemble the elaborate CMTC of the AMT cells more closely than the more reduced CMTC of the SV40 3T3. When treated with a colcemid block and then a brief reverse, the microtubule organizing centers (MTOC) appear as bright fluorescent foci when tubulin antibody and indirect immunofluorescence techniques are used. When AMT or SV40 3T3 cells are treated in this manner, only one MTOC is present in interphase cells. One clone of these cybrids, however, contained two MTOCs in interphase cells. This CMTC and MTOC phenotype has persisted in this cybrid clone for over 3 months of continuous culture.
Region-specific up-regulation of opioid receptor binding in enkephalin knockout mice

Abstract Mu and delta opioid receptors were labeled in enkephalin knockout mice by quantitative autoradiography. Discrete, large increases (100–300%) were found in limbic forebrain structures for mu binding and striatum and pallidum for delta binding. The up-regulation of opioid receptors may reflect a form of `denervation supersensitivity.' The receptor up-regulation in limbic areas is consistent with the increased emotional and aggressive behaviors observed in the enkephalin knockout mice.
The Hereditary Spastic Paraplegias Nine Genes and Counting

The hereditary spastic paraplegias (HSPs) are inherited neurologic disorders in which the primary symptom is insidiously progressive difficulty walking due to lower extremity weakness and spasticity. There have been great strides in our knowledge of this group of disabling disorders; 20 HSP loci and 9 HSP genes have been discovered. Insights into the molecular causes of HSPs are beginning to emerge. This review summarizes these advances in HSPs' genetics.
Four decades of neurodegenerative disease research: how far we have come!

### Introduction My patients frequently ask, “Why does research take so long?”, “Why is progress so slow?”, and “Why don't we have effective therapies for these devastating diseases?” At first thought, these questions seem correct. But with further contemplation, it is also remarkable
Cortical granule matrix disassembly during exocytosis in sea urchin eggs

Cortical granule exocytosis in sea urchins was studied using hyperosmotic and polymer-containing seawater to halt granule matrix dispersal. Addition of Na2SO4-containing seawater (2.5 osmole/kg) to Strongylocentrotus purpuratus eggs 10 to 40 sec after insemination resulted in arrest of the exocytic wave during propagation. EM examination of these eggs revealed that matrix disassembly occurred in distinct stages. In the earliest stage, granule-plasma membrane fusion had occurred, but the matrix remained completely intact. This early stage was observed in hyperosmotic media, either ionic or nonionic, suggesting that matrix hydration is required for disassembly and exocytic pore widening, but not for membrane fusion. Subsequent stages, in which partially disassembled matrices remained within omega-configured pockets, were captured by activating eggs in 30% dextran in seawater. Stability of these intermediates stages required the presence of Ca2+ and Mg2+; in the absence of divalent cations the matrices completely disassembled and the exocytic pockets flattened. Divalent cations appeared to prevent fragmentation of the matrix lamellae. Late stages of matrix disassembly, in which the lamellae fragmented and formed small particles, were inhibited by media of high ionic strength. Hyperosmolality alone, provided by sucrose, was unable to halt these late stages suggesting that water availability does not play an important role once a critical point in matrix dispersal has been reached.
Properties and Structure of Lanthanum Borate Glasses

Glass formation limits were determined for the lanthanum borate glasses. Stable immiscibility prevents the formation of clear glasses over the range 0 to 20 mol% La2O3, but excellent quality glasses could be formed between 20 and 28 mol% La2O3. Data are reported for the density, refractive index, thermal expansion coefficient, glass transformation and dilatometric softening temperatures, transformation range viscosity, helium permeability, and chemical durability of these glasses. A limited Raman and infrared spectroscopy study suggests that lanthanum plays a similar structural role in these glasses and in the related crystals.
Nitrogen transformations and pools in N-saturated mountain spruce forest soils

Nitrogen leaching persists in mountain forests of Europe even in the presence of decreasing N depositions. We have hypothesized that this leaching is linked to soil N transformations occurring over the whole year, even at 0°C temperatures. The aims were to estimate (1) the effect of temperature on N transformations and (2) N pools and fluxes. The study sites are situated in the Bohemian Forest (Czech Republic). Litter, humus, and 0–10-cm mineral layers were sampled in early spring, and the effect of temperature on net nitrification, net ammonification, and microbial N immobilization were measured in a short-term incubation experiment without substrate addition. Nitrogen pools were calculated from the concentrations of N forms in the soil and soil pool weights, while daily N fluxes were calculated from daily net rates of processes and soil pool weights. Relationships between temperature and net nitrification, net ammonification, and microbial N immobilization did not follow the Arrhenius type equation; all processes were active close to 0°C, indicating that microbial N transformations occur over the whole year. Microbial N immobilization rate was generally greater than N mineralization rate. The microbial N pool was significantly larger than mineral N pools. Organic layers containing tens of grams of available N per square meter contributed more than 70% to the available N in the soil profile. Daily N fluxes were related to N pools. On average, N fluxes represented daily mineral and microbial N pool changes of 1.14 and 1.95%, respectively. The effect of microbial composition on the C/N ratio of microbial biomass and respiration is discussed.
Effect of impurities on surface self-diffusion and surface structure

Abstract Measurements using field emission techniques of the activation energy for surface selfdiffusion of several of the refractory transition metals when carbon or silicon is present on the surface show large increases which are dependent on the degree of surface coverage. Maximum values obtained were: 8.5 eV for carbon on tungsten, 7.0 eV for silicon on tungsten, 4.9 eV for carbon on tantalum, 4.5 eV for carbon on molybdenum and 2.8 eV for silicon on molybdenum. In addition, two anomalous effects have been observed in which surface changes occur at critical temperatures, (a) Sharp discontinuities occur in the plots of activation energy versus temperature for carbon on tungsten at about 2300 °K and for silicon on tungsten at about 2000 °K. In both cases the activation energy drops from the respective high value to that for the clean substrate material of 3.0 eV. Concomitant with this transition the emission patterns change in appearance from those typical of a contaminated surface to those typical of a clean surface, (b) For carbon on tungsten and silicon on tungsten, (433) planes are observed which decrease in size with temperature and suddenly disappear at a very sharp critical temperature. It is suggested that the presence of these impurities causes a restructuring of the surface layers even when present in much less than stoichiometric amounts and that surface phase changes occur independent of bulk changes.
Modified technique for removal of Soemmerring ring and in-the-bag secondary intraocular lens placement in aphakic eyes.

We describe modifications to previously described techniques for evacuation of Soemmerring ring during secondary intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in aphakic eyes following previous pediatric cataract surgery. A new anterior capsulotomy is initiated using a cystotome to incise the anterior capsule close to its attachment to the posterior capsule. A curved microscissor is used to cut circumferentially, completing the capsulotomy, and a dispersive ophthalmic viscoelastic device (OVD) is used to viscoexpress Soemmerring ring material from the capsular bag. A 2-handed maneuver is used to manually divide the Soemmerring ring. Finally, slow-motion phacoemulsification is used to emulsify and remove the pieces. Viscoexpression of fragments of Soemmerring ring is done if there is a posterior capsulotomy. The residual capsular bag is filled with OVD and a foldable 3-piece IOL injected into the bag and dialed in. This technique allows complete evacuation of Soemmerring ring and placement of a secondary IOL in the capsular bag. Financial Disclosure Neither author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.
MO-D-BRB-10: Optical Surface Imaging for Online Rotation Correction and Real-Time Motion Monitoring with Threshold Gating for Frameless Cranial Stereotactic Radiosurgery

Purpose: To develop an image‐guided procedure for online head‐rotation correction and real‐time motion monitoring with threshold gating for clinical frameless stereotactic radiosurgery(SRS) using video‐based optical 3D surfaceimaging (AlignRT) to ensure accurate tumor localization and clinically‐acceptable head motion at all treatment couch angles during treatment. Methods: Eight patients, immobilized with a deep‐head mold and a mouth‐piece fixed to the couch, were treated with single‐fraction frameless SRS. The planning target volume was defined by a 3.0mm‐margin around the gross tumor volume for these patients with brainmetastasis. A ceiling‐mounted AlignRT system with three camera pods was used to correct residual head rotation before cone‐beam computed tomography(CBCT) setup, verify setup at all treatment couch angles, and monitor the head motion with 1.0mm gating threshold for beam hold. The external contour of the planing CT and on‐site surface reference images were used for setup verification and motion monitoring, respectively, using the maximum visible skin surface within the entire mid‐to‐upper face as the region of interest. An anthropomorphous head phantom and an adjustable platform (accuracy of 0.1 mm) were used to determine the geometric accuracy of frameless setup procedure and AlignRT motion detection. Results: The phantom experiment shows that the motion detection accuracy was less than 0.1 mm. For these patients, <1 degree head rotation was achieved at the setup by using surface‐image‐guided head repositioning. The patient head motion was found to be <1.0mm for 98% of the time after CBCT setup, while the beam‐hold gating was used for <1% of beam‐on time. The required workload and machine time of this procedure are similar to those of conventional frame‐based SRS. Conclusions: This non‐invasive frameless SRS procedure provides accurate and reliable means to perform clinical SRS. The image‐guided setup and motion control provides adequate accuracy, yet more convenient to the patients, comparing with frame‐based SRS. This research is in part supported by VisionRT through a clinical research agreement.
Structure of the flavoprotein tryptophan 2-monooxygenase, a key enzyme in the formation of galls in plants.

The flavoprotein tryptophan 2-monooxygenase catalyzes the oxidative decarboxylation of tryptophan to yield indole-3-acetamide. This is the initial step in the biosynthesis of the plant growth hormone indole-acetic acid by bacterial pathogens that cause crown gall and related diseases. The structure of the enzyme from Pseudomonas savastanoi has been determined by X-ray diffraction methods to a resolution of 1.95 A. The overall structure of the protein shows that it has the same fold as members of the monoamine oxidase family of flavoproteins, with the greatest similarities to the l-amino acid oxidases. The location of bound indole-3-acetamide in the active site allows identification of residues responsible for substrate binding and specificity. Two residues in the enzyme are conserved in all members of the monoamine oxidase family, Lys365 and Trp466. The K365M mutation decreases the kcat and kcat/KTrp values by 60000- and 2 million-fold, respectively. The deuterium kinetic isotope effect increases to 3.2, ...
Characterization of Saccharomyces cerevisiae ubiquinone-deficient mutants

Ubiquinol (QH2) is a lipid-soluble molecule that participates in cellular redox reactions. Previous studies have shown that yeast mutants lacking QH2 are hypersensitive to treatment with polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) indicating that QH 2 can function as an antioxidant in vivo. In this study the effect of 1 mM linolenic acid on levels of Q 6 and Q6H2 is assessed in both wild-type and respiration-deficient ( atp2Δ) strains. The response of Q-deficient mutants to other forms of oxidative stress is further characterized to define those conditions where QH 2 acts as an antioxidant. Endogenous antioxidant defense systems were also assessed in wild-type, Q-deficient, and atp2Δ strains. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity decreased and catalase activity increased in both Q-deficient and atp2Δ mutants compared to wild-type cells, suggesting that such changes result from the loss of respiration rather than the lack of Q. Abbreviations ECD, electrochemical detection; GSH, reduced glutathione; GSSG, oxidized glutathione; HPLC, high performance liquid chromatography; MMS, methyl methanethiosulfonate; O 2 , superoxide; OH, hy- droxyl radical; PUFAs, polyunsaturated fatty acids; Q, oxidized ubiquinone; Q6, ubiquinone-6; Q6H2, ubiquinol-6; QH, ubisemiquinone; QH2, ubiquinol/reduced ubiquinone; ROS, reactive oxygen species; SOD, superoxide dismutase.
Loss of Enigma Homolog Protein Results in Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Rationale: The Z-line, alternatively termed the Z-band or Z-disc, is a highly ordered structure at the border between 2 sarcomeres. Enigma subfamily proteins (Enigma, Enigma homolog protein, and Cypher) of the PDZ-LIM domain protein family are Z-line proteins. Among the Enigma subfamily, Cypher has been demonstrated to play a pivotal role in the structure and function of striated muscle, whereas the role of Enigma homolog protein (ENH) in muscle remains largely unknown. Objective: We studied the role of Enigma homolog protein in the heart using global and cardiac-specific ENH knockout mouse models. Methods and Results: We identified new exons and splice isoforms for ENH in the mouse heart. Impaired cardiac contraction and dilated cardiomyopathy were observed in ENH null mice. Mice with cardiac specific ENH deletion developed a similar dilated cardiomyopathy. Like Cypher, ENH interacted with Calsarcin-1, another Z-line protein. Moreover, biochemical studies showed that ENH, Cypher short isoform and Calsarcin-1 are within the same protein complex at the Z-line. Cypher short isoform and Calsarcin-1 proteins are specifically downregulated in ENH null hearts. Conclusions: We have identified an ENH-CypherS-Calsarcin protein complex at the Z-line. Ablation of ENH leads to destabilization of this protein complex and dilated cardiomyopathy.
X-ray spectra of Hercules X-1. II - The pulse

The X-ray spectrum of Hercules X-1 was observed in the energy range 2--24 keV with sufficient temporal resolution to allow detailed study of spectral correlations with 1.24 s pulse phase. A well-defined segment of approx.1/10 the pulse light curve is found to exhibit a marked spectral evolution. Its edges are the sharpest temporal features in the pulse, with a duration of no more than 20 ms, and this portion of the light curve may be directly associated with the intrinsic underlying beam.
Development and Fertility in Caenorhabditis elegans clk-1 Mutants Depend upon Transport of Dietary Coenzyme Q8 to Mitochondria *

The Caenorhabditis elegans clk-1mutants lack coenzyme Q9 and instead accumulate the biosynthetic intermediate demethoxy-Q9 (DMQ9).clk-1 animals grow to reproductive adults, albeit slowly, if supplied with Q8-containing Escherichia coli. However, if Q is withdrawn from the diet, clk-1animals either arrest development as young larvae or become sterile adults depending upon the stage at the time of the withdrawal. To understand this stage-dependent response to a Q-less diet, the quinone content was determined during development of wild-type animals. The quinone content varies in the different developmental stages in wild-type fed Q8-replete E. coli. The amounts peak at the second larval stage, which coincides with the stage of arrest of clk-1 larvae fed a Q-less diet from hatching. Levels of the endogenously synthesized DMQ9 are high in theclk-1(qm30)-arrested larvae and sterile adults fed Q-less food. Comparison of quinones from animals fed a Q-replete or a Q-less diet establishes that the Q8 present is assimilated from the E. coli. Furthermore, this E. coli-specific Q8 is present in mitochondria isolated from fertile clk-1(qm30) adults fed a Q-replete diet. These results suggest that the uptake and transport of dietary Q8 to mitochondria prevent the arrest and sterility phenotypes of clk-1 mutants and that DMQ is not functionally equivalent to Q.
Topical carmustine (BCNU) in the treatment of mycosis fungoides.

ABSTRACT: The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), experience with topical carmustine (BCNU) in the treatment of approximately 200 patients with mycosis fungoides (MF) is summarized. Topical BCNU is an effective treatment for patch- and early plaque-stage MF. Side-effects are usually not a major deterrent to continuation of therapy.
Heme oxygenase-1 in growth control and its clinical application to vascular disease.

Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) catalyzes the degradation of heme to carbon monoxide (CO), iron, and biliverdin. Biliverdin is subsequently metabolized to bilirubin by the enzyme biliverdin reductase. Although interest in HO-1 originally centered on its heme-degrading function, recent findings indicate that HO-1 exerts other biologically important actions. Emerging evidence suggests that HO-1 plays a critical role in growth regulation. Deletion of the HO-1 gene or inhibition of HO-1 activity results in growth retardation and impaired fetal development, whereas HO-1 overexpression increases body size. Although the mechanisms responsible for the growth promoting properties of HO-1 are not well established, HO-1 can indirectly influence growth by regulating the synthesis of growth factors and by modulating the delivery of oxygen or nutrients to specific target tissues. In addition, HO-1 exerts important effects on critical determinants of tissue size, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, and hypertrophy. However, the actions of HO-1 are highly variable and may reflect a role for HO-1 in maintaining tissue homeostasis. Considerable evidence supports a crucial role for HO-1 in blocking the growth of vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs). This antiproliferative effect of HO-1 is mediated primarily via the release of CO, which inhibits vascular SMC growth via multiple pathways. Pharmacologic or genetic approaches targeting HO-1 or CO to the blood vessel wall may represent a promising, novel therapeutic approach in treating vascular proliferative disorders.
A novel oxygen tension programmable microfluidic system (oPROMs) for in vitro cell biology studies

Creating different oxygen tensions at a microscale level can be beneficial for studies that investigate oxygen-dependent cellular behavior. Here we present a novel, highly flexible, oxygen tension programmable microfluidic system (oPROMs) capable of generating various uniform oxygen tensions without using complex device structures and multiple gas interconnections. The oPROMs device is coated with a mixture of Glucose oxidase (GOX) and Catalase (CAT) immobilized in a chitosan matrix and then covered by membranes with different thickness. The high glucose medium used in cell culture interacts with the enzyme layer and produces a steady hypoxia inside the wells. Based on different combination of GOX and CAT, oxygen tensions from 0% to 7% were produced.
A comparison of mitral valve reconstruction with mitral valve replacement: Intermediate-term results

Abstract The continued good results after mitral valve reconstruction prompted this retrospective study to compare operative and late results from our institutional experience since 1976 with 975 porcine mitral valve replacements (MVRs) (1976 to December 1987), 169 mechanical MVRs (1976 to December 1987), and 280 Carpentier-type mitral valve reconstructions (CVRs) (1980 to mid-1988). The operative mortality was 2.0% for isolated CVR, 6.6% for isolated mechanical MVR, and 8.5% for isolated porcine MVR. The overall operative mortality was 5.0% for CVR, 16.6% for mechanical MVR, and 10.6% for porcine MVR. The overall 5-year survival including hospital deaths was 76% for CVR, 72% for mechanical MVR, and 69% for porcine MVR. By multivariate analysis, the predictors of increased operative risk and of decreased survival were age, New York Heart Association functional class IV status, previous cardiac operation, and performance of concomitant cardiac surgical procedures. The type of valvular procedure was not predictive of operative risk or overall survival. The 5-year freedom from reoperation was 94.4% for nonrheumatic patients having CVR, 77.4% for rheumatic patients having CVR, 96.4% for mechanical MVR, and 96.6% for porcine MVR ( p
Design considerations for studies of the biomechanical environment of the femoropopliteal arteries.

Objective The purpose of this study was to review the available literature regarding the biomechanics of the superficial femoral artery (SFA) and popliteal artery (PA) in patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Stents are one of many available therapies used to treat patients with PAD. Because stents are permanent implants, they undergo a variety of deformations as patients go about their daily activities such as walking, sitting in a chair, or climbing stairs. As a part of the marketing application for United States Food and Drug Administration approval, stents need to be evaluated for long-term durability under a variety of loading modes. The information available in the literature provides direction for such evaluation. Methods We performed a literature search of the PubMed database looking for "key vessel" and "mechanics" (all fields) or "deformation" (all fields) or "flexion" (all fields) or "mechanical environment" (all fields) or "tortuosity" (all fields) or "dynamics" (all fields) or "forces" (all fields), where the "key vessel" was "Femoral Artery," "Superficial Femoral Artery," "Popliteal Artery," and "Femoropopliteal." Results Using a decision tree, we found 12 relevant articles that focused solely on the nonradial cyclic deformations associated with musculoskeletal motion. Despite the many limitations associated with combining these studies, we learned that under walking conditions, the proximal and mid-SFA deforms, on average, by shortening in the axial direction 4.0%, by twisting 2.1°/cm, and by bending 72.1 mm; the distal SFA and proximal PA deform by shortening in the axial direction 13.9%, by twisting 3.5°/cm, and by being pinched such that the aspect ratio of the lumen changes 4.6%. The distal PA deforms by shortening in the axial direction 12.3%, by twisting 3.5°/cm, by bending 22.1 mm, and by being pinched such that the aspect ratio of the lumen changes 12.5%. Conclusions A review of the current literature reveals heterogeneous study designs that confound interpretation. Studies included different physiologic settings from young to mature participants, participants with and without disease, and cadavers. Investigators used a range of imaging modalities and definitions of arterial segments, which affected our ability to compile the data as we learned that deformations vary according to the specific anatomic location within the SFA/PA. As a result of this analysis, we identified design considerations for future studies, because although this work has been valuable and significant, there are many limitations with the currently available data such that all we know about the SFA/PA environment is that we don't know.
Comparison of the melt fracture behavior of metallocene and conventional polyethylenes

The influence of sparse long-chain branching and molecular weight distribution on the melt fracture behavior of polyethylene melts was investigated. Four commercial polyethylene resins were employed for this study: a conventional low-density polyethylene, a conventional linear low-density polyethylene, a linear metallocene polyethylene, and a sparsely branched metallocene polyethylene. Rheological measurements were obtained for both shear and extensional deformations, and melt fracture experiments were carried out using a controlled rate capillary rheometer. A single capillary geometry was used to focus on the effects of material properties rather than geometric factors. For the linear polyethylenes, surface melt fracture, slip-stick fracture, and gross melt fracture were all observed. Conversely, the branched PE resins did not exhibit a slip-stick regime and the degree of gross fracture was observed to be much more severe than the linear resins. These variations can be explained by the effects that long-chain branching has on the onset of shear-thinning behavior (slip-stick fracture) and the degree of extensional strain hardening (gross melt fracture). Although there is some indication that the breadth of molecular weight distribution indirectly influences surface melt fracture, the results remain inconclusive.
RECTAL MUCOSECTOMY AND ILEO-ANAL ANASTOMOSIS (RMIAA) IN YOUNG PATIENTS: LONG-TERM FOLLOW-UP

RMIAA with straight pull-through was done after colectomy in 47 patients for chronic ulcerative colitis (CUC) or familial polyposis (FP). All patients have been followed closely to permit continued assessment of this surgical technique. 30 of the 47 patients have been followed prospectively for >12 months after RMIAA by sending a detailed questionnaire every 6 months and yearly visits. Stool frequency is in the Table: Gross incontinence and perianal irritation were unusual (<2 pts/ yr). All patients learned to discriminate stool from flatus and many did not use medications (6/19 at 12 mos, 4/10 at 48 mos). CBC, liver function tests, Vitamin B12 and stool fat were normal when checked. All patients were satisfied (50% very satisfied) at 48 mos (2 pts not satisfied at 12 mos). Conclusion: RMIAA is well tolerated by young patients and may be a good alternative to Brooke ileostomy in CUC or FP. The frequency of stooling decreases gradually with time. *Some patients gave more than 1 qualification.
Phosphorus Oxide Assisted n-type Dopant Diffusion in 4H-Silicon Carbide

Phosphorus is an important n-type dopant for both silicon and silicon carbide. Although solid-state diffusion of phosphorus in silicon has been well documented and experimentally proven, not much is known about phosphorus solid-state diffusion in silicon carbide, especially at lower temperatures. A convenient source of phosphorus for solid-state diffusion in silicon carbide is phosphorus oxide. The possibility of using phosphorus oxide as a dopant source for silicon carbide is investigated by considering the probable reactions between silicon carbide and phosphorus oxide at temperatures below 1700 K using published thermodynamic data. By considering the standard free energies of reactions, it can be shown that phosphorus can be introduced in silicon carbide at temperatures below 1700 K using phosphorus oxide. A successful development of low temperature dopant incorporation in silicon carbide would reduce the need for high temperature processes and prevent process-induced thermal degradation of critical device structures such as the oxide-semiconductor interface. Experimental results showing phosphorus impurity incorporation and activation in 4H-SiC are presented.
Activation of TLR-4 receptors by Par-4 in neuronal degeneration in Alzheimer's disease

receptor activation. Moreover, autophagy and lysosomal pathway seem to be involved in As effects. Preincubation of cells with microalgae oil protected retinal cells from As cytotoxicity. Conclusions: P2X7 cell death receptor seems to be an interesting therapeutic target for beta-amyloid-induced degenerative diseases. Docosahexanoic acid modulates P2X7 receptor activation. So, associated to others P2X7 inhibitor, DHA has interesting biological properties which open new perspectives in therapeutics applications.
Rapid temporal changes in the expression of a set of neuromodulatory genes during alcohol withdrawal in the dorsal vagal complex: molecular evidence of homeostatic disturbance.

Background Chronic alcohol exposure produces neuroadaptation, which increases the risk of cellular excitotoxicity and autonomic dysfunction during withdrawal. The temporal progression and regulation of the gene expression that contributes to this physiologic and behavioral phenotype is poorly understood early in the withdrawal period. Further, it is unexplored in the dorsal vagal complex (DVC), a brainstem autonomic regulatory structure. Methods We use a quantitative polymerase chain reaction platform to precisely and simultaneously measure the expression of 145 neuromodulatory genes in more than 100 rat DVC samples from control, chronically alcohol-exposed, and withdrawn rats. To gain insight into the dynamic progression and regulation of withdrawal, we focus on the expression of a subset of functionally relevant genes during the first 48 hours, when behavioral symptoms are most severe. Results In the DVC, expression of this gene subset is essentially normal in chronically alcohol-exposed rats. However, withdrawal results in rapid, large-magnitude expression changes in this group. We observed differential regulation in 86 of the 145 genes measured (59%), some as early as 4 hours into withdrawal. Time series measurements (4, 8, 18, 32, and 48 hours after alcohol removal) revealed dynamic expression responses in immediate early genes, γ-aminobutyric acid type A, ionotropic glutamate, and G-protein coupled receptors and the Ras/Raf signaling pathway. Together, these changes elucidate a complex, temporally coordinated response that involves correlated expression of many functionally related groups. In particular, the expression patterns of Gabra1, Grin2a, Grin3a, and Grik3 were tightly correlated. These receptor subunits share overrepresented transcription factor binding sites for Pax-8 and other transcription factors, suggesting a common regulatory mechanism and a role for these transcription factors in the regulation of neurotransmission within the first 48 hours of alcohol withdrawal. Conclusions Expression in this gene set is essentially normal in the alcohol-adapted DVC, but withdrawal results in immediate, large-magnitude, and dynamic changes. These data support both increased research focus on the biological ramifications of alcohol withdrawal and enable novel insights into the dynamic withdrawal expression response in this understudied homeostatic control center.
Replacement of Marine Animal Protein with Peanut Meal in Diets for Juvenile White Shrimp, Penaeus vannamei

ABSTRACT Six isonitrogenous, isocaloric diets containing 0,11.7, 23.4, 35.1, 46.8, and 58.5% peanut meal as substitutes, on an equal nitrogen basis, for 0,20,40,60,80, and 100% of animal protein mix (53% menhaden fish meal, 34% shrimp waste meal, and 13% squid meal) were fed to juvenile white shrimp, Penaeus vannamei, to satiation four times daily for 8 weeks. Shrimp fed the two lowest dietary levels (0 and 11.7%) of peanut meal had similar weight gain (P> 0.05). Weight gains were adversely affected as the dietary peanut meal levels increased to 23.4% or more. Survival rates obtained from various treatments did not significantly differ (P >0.05). Increases in the percentages of protein and fat followed the same trend as weight gains. Dry matter feed intake was similar for diets containing 0 and 11.7% peanut meal but significantly decreased (P <0.05) for diets containing 23.4% peanut meal or higher. Feed conversion, protein efficiency ratio, and apparent protein utilization were similar for diets containin...