cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A novel Arnt-interacting protein Ainp2 enhances the aryl hydrocarbon receptor signaling

Abstract In an effort to better understand the Ah receptor nuclear translocator (Arnt)-dependent signaling mechanisms, we employed a phage display system to identify Arnt-interacting peptides. Human liver cDNA library was utilized to screen for Arnt-interacting peptides using an Arnt construct fused to thioredoxin (TH-ArntCΔ418). Two clones, namely Ainp1 and Ainp2 ( A rnt- in teracting p eptide), were identified and subsequently Ainp2 was further characterized. Ainp2 interacts with TH-ArntCΔ418 in the GST pull-down and mammalian two-hybrid assays. Northern blot results revealed that Ainp2 is predominantly expressed in human liver. The putative full-length Ainp2 cDNA sequence was subsequently cloned using RACE PCR. Endogenous expression of Ainp2 was found in Jurkat cells at the mRNA and protein levels. Results from the transient transfection studies using a DRE-driven reporter plasmid and the real-time QPCR experiments examining the endogenous CYP1A1 expression showed that Ainp2 enhances the 3-methylchloranthrene-induced activity in HepG2 cells, suggesting that Ainp2 plays a role in the Arnt-dependent function.
Dynamics in the transient complex of plastocyanin-cytochrome f from Prochlorothrix hollandica.

The nature of transient protein complexes can range from a highly dynamic ensemble of orientations to a single well-defined state. This represents variation in the equilibrium between the encounter and final, functional state. The transient complex between plastocyanin (Pc) and cytochrome f (cytf) of the cyanobacterium Prochlorothrix hollandica was characterized by NMR spectroscopy. Intermolecular pseudocontact shifts and chemical shift perturbations were used as restraints in docking calculations to determine the structure of the wild-type Pc−cytf complex. The orientation of Pc is similar to orientations found in Pc−cytf complexes from other sources. Electrostatics seems to play a modest role in complex formation. A large variability in the ensemble of lowest energy structures indicates a dynamic nature of the complex. Two unusual hydrophobic patch residues in Pc have been mutated to the residues found in other plastocyanins (Y12G/P14L). The binding constants are similar for the complexes of cytf with wi...
Lack of prenatal care increases the rate of recurrent preterm delivery and health care costs when compared to university hospital-based prenatal care.

Objective: To compare perinatal outcomes and total health care costs for patients with a previous history of preterm delivery (PTD) cared for in an inner-city university hospital house staff (HS) clinic vs pregnant patients who have not received any prenatal care (NPC). Study Design: We conducted a retrospective review of pregnant women with a history of PTD delivered at our institution between January 1994 and December 1996. Inclusion criteria were a history of at least one previous PTD. Prenatal care was given in a comprehensive setting in a teaching hospital. Exclusion criteria were infants with major malformations and multiple gestations. Data were obtained on maternal demographics and history of prenatal visits. Results: The study groups consisted of 96 HS and 53 NPC patients. There were no differences in maternal demographics, however, the number of prior preterm births was greater in the NPC group (1.59 vs 1.23, P = .003). The incidence of recurrent PTD (<34 weeks) was greater in the NPC group (49% vs 13%, P = <.001). The mean gestational age at time of delivery was decreased in the NPC group (33 weeks vs 37.2 weeks, P = <.001). The length of NICU stay was greater in the NPC group (15.6 vs 3.1 days, P = .001). The mean birth weight was less in the NPC group (2172 g vs 2786 g, P = <.001). The mean total mother-infant costs were significantly less in the HS group ($7,127 vs $18,047, P = .003). Even HS patients with only one prenatal visit had a significantly lower incidence of PTD (16% vs 75%, P = .04). Conclusions: Inner-city patients with a history of PTD who received even minimal prenatal care in a university HS clinic had a significantly lower incidence of recurrent PTD than those who had no prenatal care. Prenatal care also lowers total health care costs in women with a history of PTD. The coordinated multidisciplinary aspect of care provided at academic centers may have a positive impact on the problem of PTD.
Carrier ampholyte-free solution isoelectric focusing as a prefractionation method for the proteomic analysis of complex protein mixtures.

The field of proteomics requires methods that offer high sensitivity and wide dynamic range. One of the strategies used to improve the dynamic range is sample prefractionation, such as microsolution isoelectric focusing (IEF). We have modified a commercial solution IEF instrument, the Rotofor®, to prefractionate protein mixtures by carrier ampholyte-free solution IEF. The focusing chamber of the Rotofor was divided into several compartments by polyacrylamide membranes with imbedded Immobiline mixtures of specific pH values. When an electric field is applied, each protein migrates to the compartment confined by membranes with pH values flanking its isoelectric point. The approach was demonstrated for the focusing of myoglobin into a predicted compartment, as well as the separation of a complex soluble yeast protein mixture into several distinct fractions. The proteins were dissolved in water or 30% isopropanol. The method is applicable to both gel-based and solution-phase protein identification methods, without the need for further sample preparation.
On Edwards' Model for Polymer Chains: II. The Self-Consistent Potential

We obtain an existence and uniqueness theorem for the self-consistent potential in Edwards' model for polymer chains, and confirm the asymptotic analysis proposed by him on the basis of WKB arguments.
Acquired alteration in the expression of blood groups in a patient with sideroblastic anemia and chronic renal failure.

A patient with well-differentiated lymphocytic lymphoma in remission presented with renal failure, sideroblastic anemia, and an acquired diminution in the expression of A antigen on his red cells. Other red cell antigens (H, M, i, and I) also were expressed weakly. Lewis antigen was expressed only in secretions. The diminished expression of the A antigen could not be accounted for by diminution in the specific glycosyl transferases responsible for its expression, since the activity in the serum of both the H enzyme (alpha 1 leads to 2 fucosyltransferase) and the A enzyme (alpha 1 leads to 3 N- acetylgalactosaminyltransferase) was not diminished. When sialic acid was removed by enzymatic treatment, the expression of the A and i antigens was augmented markedly, suggesting that the sialic acid may have altered the expression or detection of the antigens. This abnormality was probably related to dysplasia of the bone marrow which was otherwise manifest by ringed sideroblasts, unsegmented megakaryocytes, and diminished growth in vitro.
Perceptions of global inequality: a call for research

In light of media attention to and growing public awareness of the globalizing economy, a case for the expanded empirical investigation of public perceptions of international income distribution and inequality is presented. Theoretical issues to be illuminated by such studies are considered; exploratory qualitative data are provided to illustrate the rich potential of such research; and a variety of issues that must be addressed when conducting future research in this area are reviewed.
Acute and subacute toxicity of Trithion and the dimethyl homolog.

Abstract Trithion was approximately 6.5 times as toxic as Methyl Trithion and 3 times as toxic as a 50-50 mixture of the two technical materials when administered in a single oral dose to rats. Methyl Trithion emulsion in field concentrations was less toxic dermally in the rabbit than was either the emulsifiable Trithion or the emulsifiable 50-50 mixture of the two agents reflected in whole blood cholinesterase levels. Trithion at 46 ppm in the diet of rat for 4 weeks produced approximately the same whole blood cholinesterase depression as did 100 ppm of Methyl Trithion for a similar period. Composite ED 50 levels based upon average cholinesterase levels for the second, third, and fourth weeks (Fig. 2) indicated Methyl Trithion to be less than half as effective in producing cholinesterase depression as was Trithion. The ED 50 values were 80 and 32.5 ppm, respectively. Complete recovery in cholinesterase values after feeding rats both inhibitors at all levels was accomplished by the end of the seventh week. No case of significant inhibition was noted 3 weeks after removal from the organic phosphate-contaminated diets. There was a distinct trend toward an increase in blood cholinesterase activity levels on the low feeding levels, i.e., 5 and 10 ppm. No gross pathology, nor changes in major organ weights, body weights, or food consumption data were noted with either of these agents.
An iterative method for non-planar radiative transfer problems

Abstract A procedure involving iteration of the differential approximation (Milne-Eddington) solution is used to carry out radiative transfer calculations for the following problems: (1) a heat-generating, gray medium contained between concentric spheres, and (2) a spherical region of constant heat generation imbedded in an infinite, gray medium. The first iteration yields an approximate solution which compares favorably with other approximate solutions in simplicity, range of applicability, and accuracy.
Inhibition of acid, alkaline, and tyrosine (PTP1B) phosphatases by novel vanadium complexes.

Abstract In the course of our investigations of vanadium-containing complexes for use as insulin-enhancing agents, we have generated a series of novel vanadium coordination complexes with bidentate ligands. Specifically we have focused on two ligands: anthranilate (anc − ), a natural metabolite of tryptophan, and imidizole-4-carboxylate (imc − ), meant to mimic naturally occurring N-donor ligands. For each ligand, we have generated a series of complexes containing the V(III), V(IV), and V(V) oxidation states. Each complex was investigated using phosphatase inhibition studies of three different phosphatases (acid, alkaline, and tyrosine (PTP1B) phosphatase) as prima facia evidence for potential use as an insulin-enhancing agent. Using p -nitrophenyl phosphate as an artificial phosphatase substrate, the levels of inhibition were determined by measuring the absorbance of the product at 405 nm using UV/vis spectroscopy. Under our experimental conditions, for instance, V(imc) 3 appears to be as potent an inhibitor of alkaline phosphatase as sodium orthovanadate when comparing the K cat / K m term. VO(anc) 2 is as potent an inhibitor of acid phosphatase and tyrosine phosphatase as the Na 3 VO 4 . Thus, use of these complexes can increase our mechanistic understanding of the effects of vanadium in vivo .
Using hydrophilic polymers to control nutrient release

Using diverse technological approaches, many types of delivery devices have been used to supply plant nutrients at a controlled rate in the soil. One new approach is the use of hydrophilic polymers as carriers of plant nutrients. These polymers may be generally classified as 1) natural polymers derived from polysaccharides, 2) semi-synthetic polymers (primarily cellulose derivatives), and 3) synthetic polymers. By controlling the reaction conditions when forming the polymers, various degrees of cross-linking, anionic charge, and cationic charge can be added, thereby changing their effectiveness as fertilizer carriers. When fertilizer-containing solutions are mixed with hydrophilic polymers to form a “gel” prior to application in the soil, the release of soluble nutrients can be substantially delayed compared with soluble fertilizer alone. The effectiveness of a specific controlled-release polymeric system is determined in part by its specific chemical and physical properties, its biodegradation rate, and the fertilizer source used. Addition of some polymers with nutrients has been shown to reduce N and K leaching from well-drained soils and to increase the plant recovery of added N, P, Fe, and Mn in some circumstances
The computation of surface tension and of contact angle by the sessile-drop method

Abstract Digital computer programming of the solution of the differential equation y″ = (2 + βy)[1 + (y′) 2 ] 3 2 − y′ x [1 + (y′) 2 ] which describes the form of a meridional section of a sessile fluid drop has produced tables containing accurate and detailed values of the coordinates of points on the surface of the drop, the surface area, the volume, and the center of gravity of sections of the drop as a function of the angle θ ≡ arc tan y ′ for different values of the parameter β. From pertinent data so obtained empirical equations have been developed explicitly relating ( a ) the surface tension γ of the liquid and ( b ) the contact angle φ against the horizontal surface of the nondeformable substrate to the volume V e and to the coordinates ( χ e ) 90 and ( γ e ) 90 of the drop. The method is applicable at high temperatures as well as at ambient temperatures provided the density of the fluid is known.
Geomagnetics R&D: The future of geomagnetics research and development in the military and civilian sectors: Impact of New Technologies

Geomagnetics research and development in both the military and civilian sectors could benefit substantially from recent developments in technology. Among these might be included the use of satellites for navigation, communications, and magnetic field monitoring; the application of supercomputers to geophysical modeling; and the implementation of low-noise, high-resolution instrumentation. A small number of scientists had occasion to discuss these developments during July 1987, on the eve of the retirement of Robert H. Higgs as director of the Geophysics Department of the Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO) in Bay St. Louis, Miss. Bob is widely recognized among the scientific community as a luminary in what has been one of the most vigorous geomagnetics programs in the country, and the attendees met to pay tribute to his dedicated leadership and service to the science during his more than 31 years in NAVOCEANO. We met to exchange views and, in particular, to glean some insight from Bob on a number of issues facing the Navy and other agencies.
Oxidation of phenothiazines by human term placental peroxidase in non-smokers

Several phenothiazine derivatives have been shown to cause reproductive toxicity. The biochemical mechanisms responsible for these effects are not fully understood at present. In this study, we investigated hydrogen peroxide-dependent oxidation of seven phenothiazines by purified human term placental peroxidase. Promazine was employed as the prototype phenothiazine drug. Promazine was easily oxidized to a cation radical (absorption maximum at 513 nm) when incubated under acidic conditions with human term placental peroxidase in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. The rate of the radical formation was 350 ± 30 nmol/min/mg protein when 30 μg of the purified peroxidase was incubated with 10 mM promazine and 1.0 mM hydrogen peroxide in acetate buffer pH 3.5. The reaction was linear with respect to time, exhibited dependence on the amount of enzyme, and the concentration of promazine and hydrogen peroxide. Collectively, the results suggest an enzymatic nature of the reaction. Reduced glutathione, ascorbate, and NADH suppressed the rate of promazine radical formation presumably by its reduction back to promazine in a concentration-dependent manner. Concomitantly, NADH was co-oxidized. The cation radical formation and NADH oxidation declined significantly by potassium cyanide and sodium azide, the known peroxidase inhibitors. The enzyme also oxidized chlorpromazine, triflupromazine, trifluoperazine, trimeprazine, fluphenazine, and perphenazine in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. The evidence gathered in this study suggests that peroxidative bioactivation of phenothiazines to their corresponding cation radical species by the human placental peroxidase may represent one of the biochemical mechanisms responsible for the reported developmental toxicity of these chemicals. Teratog. Carcinog. Mutagen. 17:139–151, 1997. © 1997 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Gastropod shell size and morphology influence conspecific interactions in an encrusting hydroid

Discrete patches of suitable habitat and the consequent aggregation of organisms with similar habitat requirements often intensify competition, particularly among conspecifics. Habitat dif- ferences may generate interactions between smaller or larger individuals at variable stages of devel- opment in many fungi, plants, and colonial animals. Size-dependent competitive outcomes and effects on sexual reproductive allocation indicate that differences among discrete habitats have potentially profound ecological and evolutionary implications. In the northern Gulf of Mexico, the colonial hydroid Hydractinia (GM) colonizes hermit crab-occupied gastropod shells (= microhabi- tats), which vary greatly in size and morphology. Here, the relationship between the gastropod assemblages available for H. (GM) colonization and the frequency of conspecific encounters and sexual status of those colonies involved is documented. Field-collected shells bore 1 to 3 colonies, and the number of colonies per shell increased with shell size. In contrast to previous studies, conspecific encounters were not limited to juvenile colonies. Sexually mature H. (GM) colonies generally were not distributed differently among shells with and without conspecifics. Moreover, mature colonies predominated conspecific encounters on large shell species exhibiting certain morphology. Inani- mate structures, such as dock pilings and rocky surfaces, provide additional large surfaces for Hydractinia colonization in some areas. These results suggest that previous Hydractinia spp. studies represent only a subset of the diversity of ecologically relevant possibilities with respect to available substrata. Also, the characteristics of a given microhabitat (e.g. shell) affect competitive outcomes and sexual reproductive characters of its constituent competitors.
Neuropilin-2 mediates axonal fasciculation, zonal segregation, but not axonal convergence, of primary accessory olfactory neurons

The mechanisms that underlie axonal pathfinding of vomeronasal neurons from the vomeronasal organ (VNO) in the periphery to select glomeruli in the accessory olfactory bulb (AOB) are not well understood. Neuropilin-2, a receptor for secreted semaphorins, is expressed in V1R- and V3R-expressing, but not V2R-expressing, postnatal vomeronasal neurons. Analysis of the vomeronasal nerve in neuropilin-2 (npn-2) mutant mice reveals pathfinding defects at multiple choice points. Vomeronasal sensory axons are severely defasciculated and a subset innervates the main olfactory bulb (MOB). While most axons of V1R-expressing neurons reach the AOB and converge into distinct glomeruli in stereotypic locations, they are no longer restricted to their normal anterior AOB target zone. Thus, Npn-2 and candidate pheromone receptors play distinct and complementary roles in promoting the wiring and patterning of sensory neurons in the accessory olfactory system.
Passing as white: race, shame, and success in teacher licensure testing events for black preservice teachers

This qualitative portraiture study explored how race becomes a conscious and salient dimension of teacher licensure exams for black preservice teachers. The findings focus on one black preservice teacher and how she identified as white on the demographic survey preceding her licensure exam due to the racialized nature of the experience and the intense pressure to pass the exam. The findings illustrate how the technical means of test administration coupled with the racialized discourse about black students and standardized tests were important factors in her decision to identify as white. The findings also illustrate how feelings of shame and conciliatory hard work were byproducts of this decision and influenced her subsequent preparation for licensure exams. From these findings, the article discusses steps that test designers and faculty members can take to decrease the racialized aspect of teacher licensure exams. This study has specific relevance to countries such as the United States and England that u...
Scientific gaps in the prediction and prevention of sudden cardiac death.

Sudden Cardiac Death. The population impact of sudden death remains an unresolved problem despite growing insights into pathophysiologic mechanisms and therapeutic approaches. To make further progress, basic scientists, clinical investigators, and epidemiologists must merge their efforts to achieve better predictive strategies. Better understanding of basic physiologic mechanisms and integration of multiple points of attack in the cascade of coronary atherosclerosis are required. Identification of genetic markers of risk at all levels of the cascade offer one avenue for improving risk predictions. The epidemiologic strategies must go beyond multivariate analysis to the level complex systems analysis of the multiple components of the cascade. Targets for such approaches are discussed.
Theoretical study of RgMF (Rg = He, Ne; M = Cu, Ag, Au): Bonded structures of helium

Abstract Geometries, binding energies, and vibrational frequencies of RgMF, Rg = He, Ne; M = Cu, Ag, Au, are investigated by using the CCSD(T)/V5Z method with scalar relativistic effects taken into account. The results show that helium is more readily bound in RgMF than neon (because of its smaller atomic radius), resulting in weak, but significant, helium–metal bonding in HeCuF and HeAuF. The binding energies for these two compounds are 1632 and 1543 cm −1 , respectively, so it is quite likely that they may be formed under appropriate experimental conditions. The mechanism of bonding is also analyzed.
Constituent and composite quasi-static and fatigue fracture experiments

Quasi-static and fatigue Mode I fracture experiments were performed at a variety of loading rates and temperatures using a polymer-matrix composite (PMC) (IM7/977-3) and its neat resin (977-3). Neat resin quasi-static toughness showed slight increases in toughness with increasing loading rate and no dependence on temperature until the test temperature neared the glass transition temperature, where the toughness decreased. Composite quasi-static delamination initiation toughness showed no clear trends with respect to temperature or loading rate, but toughness values were generally higher at higher temperatures. Composite fatigue delamination onset and crack propagation rates were strongly dependent on temperature, with delamination onset occurring at a lower number of cycles and crack propagation rates being higher for a given maximum applied strain energy release rate. The neat resin fracture mechanisms were a key factor in explaining the composite quasi-static and fatigue behavior, but no quantitative predictions of composite fracture behavior could be made since the crack tip mechanisms apparently changed.
Computer simulation of a parallel link manipulator

Abstract A parallel link manipulator has been designed, which may be used as a robot wrist. The dynamic equations of the system have been formulated rigorously without assuming that the displacements and rotations are small. In computer simulation, it is shown that this manipulator can be used to perform tasks such as position control, path tracing, and force control. For each task, the control algorithm is formulated and tested.
Purification and characterization of human Factor II.

Abstract Human plasma Factor II has been purified approximately 800-fold by a combination of barium citrate adsorption, ion-exchange chromatography and preparative polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The procedure is relatively simple and results in excellent yields of purified Factor II essentially free of Factor X activity. The purified factor behaved as a single component by analytical polyacrylamide gel disc electrophoresis at pH 8.9. No Factor V, VII or IX activity was detected in the purified Factor II. Its molecular weight was 7200±3000 as determined by analytical ultracentrifugation, electrophoresis in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate and gel filtration on Bio-Gel P-200. An apparent molecular weight of 90 000–100 000 was observed on calibrated columns of Sephadex G-100, G-150, and G-200. The specific activity of human factor II was approximately 1300 N.I.H. units/mg as determined by the two-stage assay and 7 Ortho units/mg by the one stage assay. The purified protein contained by weight 2.8% neutral hexose, 2.3% sialic acids and 3.1% hexosamines.
Layer disordering of GaAs‐AlGaAs superlattices by diffusion of laser‐incorporated Si

Recently, a laser‐scanning technique for patterning layer disordering has been reported in which silicon impurities are incorporated by laser irradiation into GaAs‐AlGaAs heterostructures. The sample is subsequently annealed to diffuse the Si deep into the heterostructure. The GaAs‐AlGaAs layers are locally intermixed by diffusion of the silicon impurities. In this report, this two‐step process of laser‐assisted disordering is studied in detail with several material characterization techniques. Scanning electron microscopy and secondary ion mass spectrometry are used to correlate the extent of the layer‐disordered region with the presence of laser‐incorporated Si and oxygen. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is used to obtain high resolution images of the disordered/as‐grown interface and to evaluate the crystallinity of the laser‐affected material. TEM images allow the determination of the distribution of the Al and Ga constituents at the interface between the impurity‐disordered alloy and the as‐gr...
A mutant of Escherichia coli that prevents growth of phage lambda and is bypassed by lambda mutants in a nonessential region of the genome.

Abstract A mutant strain of E. coli (rap − ) has been isolated which blocks the growth of phages λ, 434, and ∅80. Phage 424 and various non-lambdoid phages are not affected. λ mutants that can bypass the rap block are of two general types. First, a presumed point mutant mapping between h and att provides partial bypass of the block. Second, all deletions and substitutions that eliminate or substitute one or both recognition regions of the attachment site restore a high level of growth. However, a point mutation in the crossover region of the attachment site does not bypass the block, and the rap mutation does not affect Int-promoted λ recombination. While the mechanism by which rap blocks phage development is unknown, the block implies a new and potentially interesting form of phage-host interaction.
The Effect of Majority-Minority Mandates on Partisan Gerrymandering

I develop a model of optimal partisan gerrymandering to analyze the claim that majority-minority legislative districting helps Republicans. I first determine the number of Democrats elected in states where Democrats control redistricting and the number of Republicans elected in states where Republicans control redistricting. I then determine how electoral outcomes change if the federal government requires redistricters to create majority-minority districts. In states where Republicans control redistricting, majority-minority mandates weakly decrease the number of Republicans elected. In states where Democrats control redistricting, a bare majority-minority mandate does not affect the number of Democrats elected. However, if Democratic redistricters face geographical constraints or supermajority-minority mandates, some Democratic votes are wasted and the number of Democrats elected weakly decreases. hat are the partisan effects of majority-minority districting? The conventional wisdom among political scientists is that the v T creation of a majority-minority district helps Republicans win in neighboring districts. This observation, if true, has three important implications. First, it suggests that majority-minority districting plans have a perverse electoral effect, reducing the total number of Democrats elected. Second, it suggests that unorthodox political coalitions may form in the redistricting process: civil rights groups and Republicans allied against white Democrats. Third, if the conventional wisdom is true, majority-minority districting plans may have perverse policy effects, decreasing substantive representation of minority voters' interests. The claim that majority-minority districting has perverse effects is based on the logic of the concentration gerrymander (Erikson 1972; Cain 1984). Many authors (Thernstrom 1987; Swain 1993; Lublin 1997) have argued that majority-minority districting plans, by concentrating liberal minority voters into a few districts, make the other districts in a state more conservative and thereby lead to conservative legislative majorities and conservative policy outcomes. This theoretical reasoning has received support from empirical research (Hill 1995; Lublin 1997) that examines district compositions and electoral outcomes before and after the creation of majority-minority districts and concludes that post-redistricting Republican gains can be attributed to racial gerrymandering. However this research has been disputed by Guinier (1995) and Engstrom (1995), who argue that Republican gains are primarily due to national electoral tides rather than racial gerrymandering. The perverse-effects claim has also received support from a second line of empirical research (Cameron, Epstein, and O'Halloran 1996; Epstein and O'Halloran 1999) that predicts policy effects of different districting plans and concludes that majority-minority districts are not optimal for promoting liberal policy outcomes. Despite being frequently discussed and debated, the perverse-effects claim has never been established through a precise theoretical argument.
Comparative stereology of the mouse and finch left ventricle

The volume fractions and surface per unit cell volume of some subcellular components of the left ventricles of the finch and mouse were quantitated by stereologic techniques. These species were chosen for study because they have similar heart rates but differ morphologically in some respects: fiber diameter is larger in the mouse; the mouse has transverse tubules while the finch does not; and the finch has a form of junctional sarcoplasmic reticulum (JSR), extended JSR (EJSR), located in the cell interior with no direct plasmalemmal contact, while the mouse interior JSR (IJSR) abuts on transverse tubules. Our data show that the volume fraction (Vv) and surface area per unit cell volume (Sv) of total SR, and free SR (FSR) are similar. The volume fractions of mitochondria, myofibrils, and total junctional SR were also similar. The Sv of the cell surface of the finch was similar to the Sv of the cell surface of the mouse (Sv-plasmalemma plus Sv of the transverse tubules). The principal difference was in the distribution of JSR; the mouse peripheral JSR (PJSR) represents only 9% of the total JSR, while the finch PJSR accounts for 24% of the bird's JSR. The similar volume fractions of total junctional SR (PJSR + EJSR in the finch; PJSR + IJSR in the mouse) suggest that the EJSR is not an embryologic remnant, and raises the possibility that some function of JSR is independent of plasmalemmal contact.
The Impact of Serial Solutions’ Summon™ on Information Literacy Instruction: Librarian Perceptions

Web-scale discovery systems, such as Serial Solutions’ Summon™ Service, are replacing older federated search technologies as the tool for users to access library resources quickly and easily. The impact of Web-scale discovery systems on instruction is not known. This study of instruction librarian perceptions of Summon's impact on instruction and student information literacy skills is based on a survey. The survey reveals librarians’ ambivalence toward Summon. While some librarians agree that Summon has the potential to change the way librarians teach information literacy skills, it has not been fully integrated into the classroom.
Misattribution of eating and obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms to repressed memories of childhood sexual or physical abuse

We describe three women with eating or obsessive-compulsive disorders who were told on initial presentation for treatment that their symptoms were due to forgotten experiences of childhood abuse and that recalling these repressed memories was critical to their recovery. The two patients who attempted to uncover these memories in psychotherapy were unable to do so and deteriorated. All three patients responded to treatment with conventional psychopharmacologic agents, however. These cases suggest that insisting to patients that they have been abused when they do not think they have been may have deleterious consequences.
Differentiation of α- from γ-glutamyl dipeptides by chemical ionization mass spectrometry

Chemical ionization mass spectrometry has been shown to be a useful method for the differentiation of α- and γ-glutamyl dipeptides where the C-terminal amino acids are simple α-amino or α-imino acids without additional functional groups. The α-glutamyl dipeptides lost one and two molecules of H2O from the protonated molecular ion to give fragment ions at [MHH2O]+ and [MH2H2O]+. With the γ-glutamyl dipeptides, the characteristic fragment ions of highest intensities were the protonated pyroglutamic acid (pyrrolidone-5-carboxylic acid) ion at m/z 130, and a fragment ion corresponding to the protonated C-terminal amino acid. The procedure does not require derivatization of the dipeptide, and because only small sample sizes are needed it could prove useful for the characterization of synthetic samples and glutamyl dipeptides isolated and purified from biological sources.
COMPARISON OF BILATERAL VERSUS UNILATERAL VARICOCELECTOMY IN MEN WITH PALPABLE BILATERAL VARICOCELES

AbstractPurpose: The left varicocele is usually larger in men with bilateral varicoceles. We hypothesized that most of the benefit of varicocelectomy would derive from repair of the larger varicocele. To test this hypothesis we prospectively compared the effect of unilateral versus bilateral microsurgical varicocelectomy in men with large (grade III) or moderate (II) left varicocele associated with small but palpable (I) right varicocele.Materials and Methods: A total of 91 patients were prospectively followed and included in the study. Of the patients 65 underwent bilateral and 26 underwent unilateral left repair. All patients underwent preoperative and postoperative semen analysis.Results: Motile sperm concentration increased from 12.1 +/- 1.7 to 23.7 +/- 31.8 (95.8% change) in the bilateral group compared with an increase from 19.5 +/- 21.4 to 27.8 +/- 34.8 (42.6% change) in the unilateral group (p < 0.05). Similarly, sperm concentration increased from 23.8 +/- 29.5 to 48.6 +/- 61.3 (157.6% change) in ...
Immune thrombocytopenia and α-interferon therapy

Abstract Thrombocytopenia is often found in patients with liver diseases, especially due to congestive splenomegaly caused by portal hypertension. Immune thrombocytopenia has been described rarely, and it seems to be especially associated with hepatitis C virus, which has been described as having a particular interaction with the immune system contributing to the induction of autoimmunity. Interferons, on the other hand, because of their immunomodulatory properties, are able to induce or exacerbate autoimmune diseases. Mild thrombocytopenia is a common adverse effect of interferon therapy. Severe life-threatening thrombocytopenia is extremely rare. We report two cases of severe immune thrombocytopenia in patients with chronic hepatitis C, probably induced by α-interferon. Bone marrow aspirate and elevated platelet-associated IgG antibodies, determined by indirect immunofluorescence, were suggestive of immune thrombocytopenia. None of the patients had any clinical sign of autoimmune syndrome, including arthritis, serositis, Sicca syndrome, vasculitis, thyroid abnormalities and others. Cryoglobulins and rheumatoid factors were tested and were undetectable. The patients' histories of exposure to α-interferon and the exclusion of other causes are most consistent with drug-induced immune thrombocytopenia. After α-interferon withdrawal, thrombocytopenia was treated successfully with prednisolone and immunoglobulins. Response to treatment was consistent with the diagnosis of α-interferon-induced immune thrombocytopenia and peripheral consumption of platelets.
A practical perspective on the design and implementation of service-oriented solutions

Business-driven development is an approach that focuses on automating the path from business understanding to IT solution. IBM's experiences with customers taking a business-driven approach to develop services-oriented solutions are highlighting a number of best practices that are important to share and discuss. This paper focuses on how companies adopting a service-oriented approach are assembling the appropriate environment to be successful. The paper identifies three design techniques for SOA and describes when each of them can be used in practice, depending on the business and IT drivers and the organization's maturity. We then highlight how to use structured enterprise models together with the tools and methods to automate the design of service-oriented solutions. These scenarios and examples are playing an important role in the development of future method content and tooling requirements for IBM Rational tools.
CLOVES syndrome with thoracic and central phlebectasia: increased risk of pulmonary embolism.

Objective CLOVES syndrome (congenital lipomatous overgrowth, vascular malformations, epidermal nevi, and skeletal/scoliosis and spinal abnormalities) is a rare, complex overgrowth syndrome with serious morbidity. In this communication we studied the presence of central and thoracic phlebectasia in patients with CLOVES syndrome and its clinical implications. Methods We conducted a comprehensive search of our databases at Children's Hospital Boston over the last 10 years (1999–2008) for patients with CLOVES syndrome and central and thoracic phlebectasia. Medical records, clinical photographs, and imaging studies of varying modalities were reviewed. Results Review of the clinical data and imaging studies of 12 patients with CLOVES syndrome documented the presence of central and thoracic phlebectasia in 11 patients. Two patients had serious perioperative pulmonary embolism, and 1 died. Conclusions Central and thoracic phlebectasia in patients with CLOVES syndrome is common and increases the risk of pulmonary embolism. Aggressive prophylactic measures should be considered before major interventions.
An intrauterine ultrasound applicator for targeted delivery of thermal therapy in conjunction with HDR brachytherapy to the cervix

An intracavitary hyperthermia applicator for targeted heat delivery to the cervix was developed based on a linear array of sectored tubular ultrasound transducers that provides truly 3-D heating control (angular and along the length). A central conduit can incorporate an HDR source for sequential or simultaneous delivery of heat and radiation. Hyperthermia treatment volumes were determined from brachytherapy treatment planning data and used as a basis for biothermal simulations analyzing the effects of device parameters, tissue properties, and catheter materials on heating patterns. Devices were then developed with 1-3 elements at 6.5-8 MHz with 90-180° sectors and a 15-35 mm heating length, housed within a 6-mm diameter water-cooled PET catheter. Directional heating from sectored transducers could extend lateral penetration of therapeutic heating (41°C) >2 cm while maintaining rectum and bladder temperatures within 12 mm below thermal damage thresholds. Imaging artifacts were evaluated with standard CT, cone beam CT, and MR images. MR thermal imaging was used to demonstrate shaping of heating profiles in axial and coronal slices with artifact <2 mm from the device. The impact of the high-Z applicator materials on the HDR dose distribution was assessed using a well-type ionization chamber and was found to be less than 6% attenuation, which can readily be accounted for with treatment planning software. The intrauterine ultrasound device has demonstrated potential for 3-D conformal heating of clinical tumors in the delivery of targeted hyperthermia in conjunction with brachytherapy to the cervix.
Role of PML and the PML-nuclear body in the control of programmed cell death

PML is a tumor suppressor implicated in leukemia and cancer pathogenesis. PML epitomizes a multiprotein nuclear structure, the PML-nuclear body (PML-NB), whose proper formation and function depends on PML. Studies in knockout (KO) mice and cells unraveled an essential pleiotropic role for PML in multiple p53-dependent and -independent apoptotic pathways. As a result, Pml(-/-) mice and cells are protected from apoptosis triggered by a number of stimuli such as ionizing radiation, interferon, ceramide, Fas and TNF. It is becoming apparent that PML and the PML-NB act as molecular hubs for the induction and/or reinforcement of programmed cell death through a selective and dynamic regulation of proapoptotic transcriptional events. In addition, recent observations propose a role for PML in checkpoint responses upon DNA damage. Moreover, PML and the PML-NB have also been implicated in the control of genomic stability and DNA repair. Here, we will discuss the molecular mechanisms by which PML regulates these processes and the implication of these findings for cancer pathogenesis and therapy.
Design for All in action: An example of analysis and implementation

This paper discusses aspects related to the implementation of Design for All in ICT from a developer oriented perspective. In order to illustrate and exemplify the concepts, the discussion refers to characteristics implemented in the web site of the Italian EDeAN network. The paper proposes adaptation capable platforms as a possible organic solution for instantiating Design for All principles. It presents a modular platform that makes it possible to build services of various types, with focus on its adaptation framework. The platform is inspired by Design for All principles in that it is intended to give support, from the design time on, to a wide range of mobile and wired communication devices, a variety of user characteristics, preferences, and contexts.
Bipartite Subgraphs and Quasi-Randomness

We say that a family of graphs * is p-quasi-random, 0<p<1, if it shares typical properties of the random graph G(n,p); for a definition, see below. We denote by * the class of all graphs H for which * and the number of not necessarily induced labeled copies of H in Gn is at most (1+o(1))pe(H)nv(H) imply that * is p-quasi-random. In this note, we show that all complete bipartite graphs Ka,b, a,b≥2, belong to * for all 0<p<1.
The solution of linear interval equations by a linear programming method

Abstract A method is described for solving a system of n linear equations in n unknowns when the coefficients and constants of the equations are specified as intervals. Here a solution is considered to be the supplying of optimal interval bounds for the unknowns. Even for small n , such systems of interval equations can be difficult to solve, requiring extensive computation. The method described is a generalization of a linear programming method proposed long ago by W. Oettli, and leads to a relatively simple solution algorithm applicable to systems of small size.
In the United States, a Mother’s Plans for Infant Feeding Are Associated with Her Plans for Employment

Background:The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends 6 months of exclusive breastfeeding, however, only 16% of US infants meet this recommendation. Shorter exclusive/predominant breastfeeding durations have been observed from women who return to work early and/or full-time.Objective:We assessed the relationship between prenatal plans for maternity leave duration and return to full-time/part-time status and plans for exclusive breastfeeding.Methods:This study included 2348 prenatally employed women from the Infant Feeding Practices Study II (2005-2007) who planned to return to work in the first year postpartum. Bivariate analysis and logistic regression were used to describe the association of maternity leave duration and return status with plans for infant feeding.Results:Overall, 59.5% of mothers planned to exclusively breastfeed in the first few weeks. Mothers planning to return to work within 6 weeks had 0.60 times the odds (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.46-0.77) and mothers planning to return be...
Preparation of yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) films on La0.85Sr0.15MnO3 (LSM) and LSM–YSZ substrates using an electrophoretic deposition (EPD) process

Preparation of high-quality yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) electrolyte films on porous substrates is critical to the fabrication of high-performance solid-state ionic devices such as fuel cells and gas sensors. An electrophoretic deposition (EPD) process is investigated for the preparation of YSZ electrolyte films on both porous La0.85Sr0.15MnO3 (LSM) and porous LSM–YSZ composite substrates. The Pechini process is used for the preparation of fine LSM powders with an average particle size of about 0.1 μm. The processing parameters critically influencing the microstructures of green YSZ films are identified and optimized to obtain uniform, crack-free green YSZ films with high packing density of fine YSZ particles. Dense YSZ films with a thickness of about 10 μm have been successfully fabricated on both porous LSM and porous LSM–YSZ substrates when sintered at 1250°C for 2 h.
Accelerating Mobile Video: A 64-Bit SIMD Architecture for Handheld Applications

Providing quality mobile video applications in hand-held mobile devices requires increased computational capability. Using Single Instruction Multiple Data (SIMD) techniques to expose and accelerate the data parallelism inherent in video processing increases performance in handheld and wireless systems. The paper introduces a new 64-bit SIMD coprocessor of the Intel® XScale® microarchitecture which is optimized for low-power handheld applications. The architecture blends the SIMD media processing style with the capabilities of the XScale microarchitecture. This paper provides an overview of the architecture, its instruction set, programming model, the pipeline organization and functional units. The paper also describes how key features of architecture improve the performance of video applications as compared to a scalar implementation. The performance and power improvements based upon measured results are analyzed to show how the opportunities of power savings by reducing the frequency and voltage can be realized.
Glutamine synthetase in liver and brain tissues of the holocephalan, Hydrolagus colliei

Glutamine synthetase was shown to be mitochondrial in liver tissue and cytosolic in brain tissue of the holocephalan Hydrolagus colliei. The liver mitochondrial form has an Mr approximately 1,500 larger than the brain cytosolic form, so the two represent compartmental isozymes. Similar isozymes have been shown to be present in elasmobranchs, and their occurrence in holocephalans suggests the two groups share a common ancestry.