cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Capillary isoelectric focusing of hemoglobin variants in the pediatric clinical laboratory

We have used capillary isoelectric focusing (cIEF) to diagnose and monitor hemoglobinopathies in children for over three years. This report describes a major revision of our original method (Clin. Chem. 1994, 40, 2288-2295) that improves the analysis of hemoglobin (Hb) variants by cIEF, especially capillary performance and quantitation precision for minor variants. The revised method uses mixed ampholytes (2% pH 6-8:3-10; 10:1), lower viscosity methylcellulose (0.375%) solution, between-sample capillary conditioning with methanol, and hemolysates prepared from red blood cells (RBC) instead of whole blood. Collectively, these changes prolonged capillary life by minimizing capillary exposure to NaOH, standardized the sample matrix, and improved the precision of peak autointegration. The between-run quantitation imprecision (% relative standard deviation) of the revised method was 0.1-3.5% for all diagnostically important major and minor Hb variants present at normal or abnormal levels. The results show the use of the revised method for (i) posttranslationally modified Hb present at low concentrations in normal blood, (ii) Hb oxidation products produced by improper sample storage, (iii) differential diagnosis of S/beta + thalassemia, G-Philadelphia trait, S/C-Harlem disease, and Hb H disease, (iv) sensitive detection of minor variants like Hb A2' as indicators of an alpha globin mutation, and (v) neonatal screening using dried blood collected on filter paper. The results show that high-efficiency separation and precise quantitation of Hb variants over a wide range of concentrations makes cIEF a comprehensive assay that can be used without adjunct analyses for the automated primary evaluation of hemoglobinopathies and thalassemias.
Catalysis of fluorine addition to double bond: an improvement of method for synthesis of 18F PET agents

Abstract Catalysis for reaction of electrophilic fluorine addition to a fluorinated double bond is described. The presence of small amounts of iodine, bromine, or boron trifluoride increases an overall product yield and degree of fluorine incorporation, making the reaction a more efficient method for preparation of 18F positron emission tomography agents. A possible mechanism of catalytic action of iodine is discussed.
Hop as an Adaptor in the Heat Shock Protein 70 (Hsp70) and Hsp90 Chaperone Machinery

Hop, an abundant and conserved protein of unresolved function, binds concomitantly with heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) and Hsp90, participates with heat shock proteins at an intermediate stage of progesterone receptor assembly, and is required for efficient assembly of mature receptor complexes in vitro. A largely untested hypothesis is that Hop functions as an adaptor that targets Hsp90- to Hsp70-substrate complexes; if true, then loss of either Hsp70 binding or Hsp90 binding by Hop should equally disrupt its ability to promote assembly of mature receptor complexes. To generate Hop mutants that selectively disrupt heat shock protein interactions, highly conserved amino acids in the previously mapped Hsp70 and Hsp90 binding domains of Hop and in a conserved C-terminal domain were targeted for small substitutions and deletions. In co-precipitation assays, these mutants displayed selective loss of association with heat shock proteins. In assays using Hop-depleted rabbit reticulocyte lysate for the cell-free assembly of receptor complexes, none of the Hop mutants inhibited Hsp70 binding to receptor, but all mutants were defective in supporting Hsp90-receptor interactions. Thus, Hop has a novel role in the chaperone machinery as an adaptor that can integrate Hsp70 and Hsp90 interactions.
Quantum Mechanics and Paradigm Shifts

It has been argued that the transition from classical to quantum mechanics is an example of a Kuhnian scientific revolution, in which there is a shift from the simple, intuitive, straightforward classical paradigm, to the quantum, convoluted, counterintuitive, amazing new quantum paradigm. In this paper, after having clarified what these quantum paradigms are supposed to be, I analyze whether they constitute a radical departure from the classical paradigm. Contrary to what is commonly maintained, I argue that, in addition to radical quantum paradigms, there are also legitimate ways of understanding the quantum world that do not require any substantial change to the classical paradigm.
Systemic immune responses in pregnancy and periodontitis: relationship to pregnancy outcomes in the Obstetrics and Periodontal Therapy (OPT) study.

Background: Our previous studies reported on the obstetric, periodontal, and microbiologic outcomes of women participating in the Obstetrics and Periodontal Therapy (OPT) Study. This article describes the systemic antibody responses to selected periodontal bacteria in the same patients.Methods: Serum samples, obtained from pregnant women at baseline (13 to 16 weeks; 6 days of gestation) and 29 to 32 weeks, were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody to Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (previously Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans), Campylobacter rectus, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, Tannerella forsythia (previously T. forsythensis), and Treponema denticola.Results: At baseline, women who delivered live preterm infants had significantly lower total serum levels of IgG antibody to the panel of periodontal pathogens (P = 0.0018), to P. gingivalis (P = 0.0013), and to F. nucleatum (P = 0.0200) than women who d...
Free amino acids content of the healthy and parasitized digestive gland of Oxytrema silicula and the rediae of Nanophyetus salmincola

Abstract 1. 1. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of the amino acid content in the digestive gland of the unparasitized and parasitized Oxytrema silicula and the rediae of Nanophyetus salmincola resulted in the detection of seventeen amino acids plus ammonia. 2. 2. Ammonia, lysine, aspartic acid, threonine, serine, proline, glycine and alanine are found in relatively high concentrations. 3. 3. Histidine, glutamic acid, valine, methionine, leucine, isoleucine and arginine are present in moderate amounts; while tyrosine, phenylalanine and cystine exist in low and trace amounts. 4. 4. In parasitized snails considerable depletion of amino acids is encountered in those present in high concentrations, while increases of amino acids are observed in most of those present in low and moderate concentrations.
A FINE-STRUCTURE STUDY OF THE ROTIFER INTEGUMENT.

The fine structure of the hypodermal syncytium and extracellular cuticle of Asplanchna sieboldi show a number of interesting and somewhat unique features. Among these are numerous bulblike invaginations of the outer cell membranes, an unusual dense lamellar band adjacent to the apparently five-layered plasma membrane, and an acid polysaccharide-protein cuticle displaying complex morphology. A tentative working hypothesis is suggested concerning the involvement of various hypodermal organelles and components in cuticle production. Evidence on the nature of the cuticle comes from a number of histochemical tests as well as enzyme digestion and observation of the results with electron microscopy. Adult rotifers are apparently incapable of regenerating cuticle after its enzymatic removal.
A fibronectin peptide redirects PDGF-BB/PDGFR complexes to macropinocytosis-like internalization and augments PDGF-BB survival signals

Growth factor–binding domains identified in various extracellular matrix proteins have been shown to regulate growth factor activity in many ways. Recently, we identified a fibronectin peptide (P12) that can bind platelet-derived growth factor BB (PDGF-BB) and promote adult human dermal fibroblast (AHDF) survival under stress. In vivo experiments in a porcine burn injury model showed that P12 limited burn injury progression, suggesting an active role in tissue survival. In this report, we explored the molecular mechanism of this peptide in ADHF under nutrient deprivation. Our results showed that P12 acted like some cell-penetrating peptides in that it redirected ligand-bound PDGF receptor (PDGFR) from the clathrin-dependent endocytic pathway to a slower, macropinocytosis-like pathway. P12 slowed internalization and degradation of PDGF-BB, augmented its survival signals, and promoted cell survival after nutrient removal. Our findings demonstrate a mechanism for a potential therapeutic peptide that increases cell and tissue survival by acting as a cofactor to PDGF-BB.
Activated type II receptors in brain cannot rebind glucocorticoids: relationship to progesterone's antiglucocorticoid actions.

Abstract Exchange assays have often been used to quantitate steroid receptors when endogenous ligands are present: however, there are no reports of their successful application to activated glucocorticoid-Type II receptor complexes. In addition to investigating the reasons for this failure, the present study also examined the effects of progestorone on glucocorticoid dissociation from, and reassociation with unactivated and activated Type II receptors. Molybdate-stabilized brain cytosol from adrenal-ovariectomized mice was incubated with [3H]dexamethasone ( ±[1H]DEX) for 40 h at 0°C. Afterawards, free steroid was removed on Sephadex G-25 columns in the presence (unactivated receptors) or absence (activated receptors) of molybdate. Activation, as measured by DNA-cellulose binding, was achieved by incubating molybdate-free cytosol at 22 °C for 20 followed by G-25 filtration in the presence of molybdate. The rates of dissociation and reassociation were then measured by incubating cytosol with [1H]triamcinolone acetonide (TA) or [3H]TA (±[1H]TA) at 12°C. An exchange assay was also employed in which cytosol was incubated first with [1H]DEX for 40 h at 0°C followed by bound-free steroid separations and 12°C incubations with [3H]TA (±[1H]TA). Both approaches revealed that even through activation reduced the rate of DEX dissociation from Type II receptors by 40%, it eliminated the ability of the newly unoccupied receptors to rebind glucocorticoid. Adding [1H]progesterone to occupied receptor preparations increased dissociation rate constants by nearly 3-fold, for both unactivated and activated Type II receptors. Since [1H]TA failed to prevent this effect, progesterone appears to act at an allosteric site(s) which cannot be occupied by glucocorticoids. Exchange assays revealed that progesterone-facilitated dissociation increased the rate of glucocorticoid rebinding to unactivated, but not activated Type II receptors. These results suggest that spontaneous and progesterone-facilitated termination of glucocorticoid genomic actions could be mediated by steroid dissociation since unoccupied activated Type II receptors do not rebind agonist steroid.
New Chemotherapeutic Agents for Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

The identification of new chemotherapeutic agents for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer should proceed in a structured, logical fashion. Agents should be evaluated on the basis of multiple objective and subjective end points. A 15% or greater major objective response rate, demonstrated in multiple single-agent phase II trials, is considered the lower limit for an agent to be deemed clinically active in this disease. A number of drugs previously have been identified in this category, including cisplatin, ifosfamide, mitomycin, paclitaxel, and the vinca alkaloids vinblastine and vindesine. Most of these conventional agents have been explored alone, in a variety of doses and schedules, and in combination. In the last several years clinical development has produced new agents, including chloroquinoxaline sulfonamide, docetaxel, edatrexate, gemcitabine, irinotecan, topotecan, and vinorelbine, which hold promise for more successful treatment of this lethal disease.
Surface Composition of Amorphous and Crystallizable Polyethylene Blends As Measured by Static SIMS

The surface composition of several thin-film semicrystalline polyolefin blends is quantified using secondary ion mass spectroscopy (SIMS). These experiments indicate that the component having the l...
DFT study of substituted and benzannelated aryl cations: substituent dependency of singlet/triplet ratio.

By using density functional theory (DFT) method at the B3LYP/6-311+G* level, it has been shown that the preference for the singlet-state phenyl cation can be dramatically increased relative to the triplet state by introducing onium cationic substituents in the para position. At this level of theory, the singlet ground state for the parent phenyl cation was found to be lower than the triplet by 19.6 kcal/mol. Introduction of electron-donating substituent groups, namely −NMe2, −NH2, and −SMe in the para position, strongly favors the triplet state. The −OMe and −SH groups cause a similar but smaller effect, whereas −OH substitution results in an energetically identical system. Protonation of these substituent groups form onium−phenyl dications for which a complete reversal of the relative stabilities in favor of the singlet ground state are indicated with −SH2+, −SMeH+, and −NH3+ showing the largest singlet/triplet energy difference. The −N2+ group in the para position has a similar effect. Benzannelation al...
The Blackwell guide to research methods in bilingualism and multilingualism

The Blackwell guide to research methods in bilingualism and multilingualism, edited by Li Wei and M.G. Moyer, Malden, MA, Blackwell, 2008, 403 pp., US$99.95 (hardback), ISBN 978-1-4051-2607-6, US$9...
Fabrication of ultrathin metallic membranes on ceramic supports by sputter deposition

The present work focuses on the synthesis of ultrathin palladium films (< 500 nm) grown on porous ceramic supports by the sputter deposition technique. The following two parameters were found most critical to the synthesis of the gas-tight metal-ceramic composite: substrate type (surface roughness) and the deposition temperature. Fairly gas-tight Pd films with good adhesion could be coated on sol-gel derived fine pore γ-alumina supports but not on coarse α-alumina supports. Poor adhesion between the coated film and the γ-alumina support was observed for films coated at room temperature, to a thickness of 300 nm or larger. Both coating temperature (80–600°C) and substrate type affect the grain size, nitrogen gas-tightness and the adhesion of the deposited metallic films. Characterization results show that 400°C is the optimum coating temperature. XRD and SEM data on these films show that the films are fairly crystalline, with a uniform and smooth surface morphology.
The role of the television critic: Four approaches

Television is too much with us—it is the most ubiquitous and probably the most persuasive of all media, and we need to understand its power and fascination if we are to exercise even minimal control over this dynamic force in our environment. Television's large and relatively undemanding audience argues strongly for the highest standards of criticism, since the critic, by virtue of his knowledge, background, and ability to perceive familiar subjects with fresh and stimulating insights, can hope to bring about a heightened awareness in his readers. Four television critics whose variant methods and objectives adhere to accepted standards of critical excellence are the focus of this essay.
Preparation and X-Ray Crystal Structure of 3-(4-(Dimethylamino)phenyl)-2-(phenylamino)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one, 3-(4-Methoxyphenyl)-2-(phenylamino)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one, and 2-Methyl-N′-(4-methylbenzoyl)-N′-phenylbenzohydrazide from Polylithiated 2-methylbenzoic Acid Phenylhydrazide and Methyl 4-dimethylaminobenzoate, Methyl 4-methoxybenzoate, or Methyl 4-methylbenzoate

2-Methylbenzoic acid phenylhydrazide was polylithiated with excess lithium diisopropylamide, and the resulting polylithiated intermediate was condensed with methyl 4-dimethylaminobenzoate or methyl 4-methoxybenzoate to afford C-acylated intermediates that were immediately acid cyclized to afford 3-(4-(dimethylamino)-phenyl)-2-(phenylamino)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one C23H21N3O or 3-(4-methoxyphenyl)-2-(phenylamino)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one C22H18N2O2. The polylithiated intermediate underwent N-acylation when it was condensed with methyl 4-methylbenzoate to give 2-methyl-N′-(4-methylbenzoyl)-N′-phenylbenzohydrazide C22H20N2O2. Crystals of C23H21N3O 4a are triclinic, P $$ \overline{1} $$ , a = 9.138(2) A, b = 10.519(2) A, c = 11.082(2) A, α = 91.55(3)°, β = 108.92(3)°, γ = 111.16(3)°, Z = 2, V = 927.1(3) A3, R 1 = 0.0711 and wR 2 = 0.1828 for reflections with I > 2σ(I); crystals of C22H18N2O2 4b are monoclinic, P21/c, a = 8.821(1) A, b = 13.276(2) A, c = 15.482(3) A, β = 105.271(4)°, Z = 4, V = 1748.9(5) A3, R 1 = 0.0416 and wR 2 = 0.1030 for reflections with I > 2σ(I); crystals of C22H20N2O2 3 are orthorhombic, Pbca, a = 13.505(3) A, b = 9.733(2) A, c = 28.601(6) A, Z = 8, V = 3759.4(13) A3, R 1 = 0.1683 and wR 2 = 0.3526 for reflections with I > 2σ(I). X-ray crystal analysis was important for the confirmation of the structure of 3-(4-(dimethylamino)phenyl)-2-(phenylamino)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one C23H21N3O 4a, 3-(4-methoxyphenyl)-2-(phenylamino)isoquinolin-1(2H)-one C22H18N2O2 4b, and 2-methyl-N′-(4-methylbenzoyl)-N′-phenylbenzohydrazide C22H20N2O2 3 prepared from polylithiated 2-methylbenzoicacid phenylhydrazide and methyl 4-dimethylaminobenzoate, methyl 4-methoxybenzoate, or methyl 4-methylbenzoate. Crystals of C23H21N3O 4a are triclinic, P $$ \overline{1} $$ , a = 9.138(2) A, b = 10.519(2) A, c = 11.082(2) A, α = 91.55(3)°, β = 108.92(3)°, γ = 111.16(3)°, Z = 2, V = 927.1(3) A3, R 1 = 0.0711 and wR 2 = 0.1828 for reflections with I > 2σ(I); crystals of C22H18N2O2 4b are monoclinic, P21/c, a = 8.821(1) A, b = 13.276(2) A, c = 15.482(3) A, β = 105.271(4)°, Z = 4, V = 1748.9(5) A3, R 1 = 0.0416 and wR 2 = 0.1030 for reflections with I > 2σ(I); crystals of C22H20N2O2 3 are orthorhombic, Pbca, a = 13.505(3) A, b = 9.733(2) A, c = 28.601(6) A, Z = 8, V = 3759.4(13) A3, R 1 = 0.1683 and wR 2 = 0.3526 for reflections with I > 2σ(I).
Towards a reference model for agent-based systems

The current state of the art in agent technology sees that several implementations of agent frameworks exist. However, there is little agreement on the terms and concepts used to describe such systems, which is a significant barrier towards adoption of these technologies by industry, military and commercial entities. A clear definition of terms and concepts at an appropriate level of abstraction is needed to facilitate discussion, evaluation and adoption of these emerging agent technologies. In this paper, we argue that a reference model for agent-based systems can fill this need. We discuss what a reference model is, why one is needed for agent-based systems, and our proposed methodology for creating such a reference model. While the complete model is a work in progress, we present a preliminary version to motivate further discussion from the agents community at large. It is our hope that ultimately a wider community of practice will assume responsibility for the standardization similar to the way that the well-known seven-layer Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) reference model was a driving force underlying communications standards.
A complete sufficient statistic for the linear model under normality and a singular covariance matrix

Assuming normality, a general form of a complete sutiicient statistic for the linear mode] having a singular covariance matrix is determined. The relationship between the complete sufficient statistic and some of the methods for determining best linear unbiased estimators given in the literature is also discussed.
Microwave joining and repair of composite materials

A novel technique that uses microwave power for joining and repair of thermoplastic and thermoset composites and ceramics is discussed. Enhanced microwave heating resulting from the use of conducting polymers and chiral microinclusions shows considerable promise for joining and repair of composites. The method is attractive because it produces clean and reliable interfacial joints, it is fast, it does not entail alteration of the bulk materials, and it does not result in volumetric heating. System details, including magnetron, waveguides, circulators, coupling iris, and the applicator for delivering microwave power, are described. Material requirements for the efficient absorption of microwave power are discussed. Microwave heating can be increased by doping the components to be joined or by the use of microwave adhesive films. Recent developments in electromagnetic chirality for microwave absorption are introduced and the design of composite materials for enhanced absorptivity is discussed. Results are presented for the welding and repair of thermoplastic, thermoset, and ceramic components.
Use of the levonorgestrel intrauterine system in adolescents with endometriosis.

Abstract Study Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate our adolescent patient population who had received a levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) at or after the time of endometriosis diagnosis, and determine efficacy of the LNG-IUS in regards to pain and bleeding on follow-up exam. Design Retrospective cohort study. Setting Pediatric Adolescent Gynecology Clinic and Children's Hospital in a metropolitan area. Participants Adolescent patients age 14–22 with pathology-proven endometriosis who had the LNG-IUS placed during the course of their treatment for this disease. Patients were divided into LNG-IUS placement at the time of surgical diagnosis versus placement some time after diagnosis. Main Outcome Measures Pain and bleeding were assessed by follow-up exam. Pain was classified at each follow-up visit as either none, minimal, moderate, or severe. Bleeding was classified as none, irregular spotting, irregular bleeding, or daily bleeding. Results The majority of patients (67%) required additional hormonal therapy for pain and bleeding suppression. Time to bleeding suppression and pain suppression was sooner in the group with interval time between surgical diagnosis and LNG-IUS placement, compared to LNG-IUS placement at the time of surgery (2.4 months vs 5.3 months until bleeding suppression, and 3.8 months vs 4.8 months until pain suppression), although statistical significance was not achieved. Conclusions The LNG-IUS is an option for treatment of endometriosis in adolescents. As pain is the main problem associated with endometriosis, LNG-IUS placement is beneficial at the time of surgery when it is diagnosed. A prospective study is needed for further assessment of outcomes.
Calculation of amorphous silica solubilities at 25° to 300°C and apparent cation hydration numbers in aqueous salt solutions using the concept of effective density of water

Abstract The solubility of amorphous silica in aqueous salt solutions at 25° to 300°C can be calculated using information on its solubility in pure water and a model in which the activity of water in the salt solution is defined to equal the effective density. p e , of “free” water in that solution. At temperatures of 100°C and above, p e closely equals the product of the density of the solution times the weight fraction of water in the solution. At 25°C, a correction parameter must be applied to p e that incorporates a term called the apparent cation hydration number, h . Because of the many assumptions and other uncertainties involved in determining values of h , by the model used here, the reported numbers are not necessarily real hydration numbers even though they do agree with some published values determined by activity and diffusion methods. Whether or not h is a real hydration number, it would appear to be useful in its inclusion within a more extensive activity coefficient term that describes the departure of silica solubilities in concentrated salt solutions from expected behavior according to the model presented here. Values of h can be calculated from measured amorphous silica solubilities in salt solutions at 25°C provided there is no complexing of dissolved silica with the dissolved salt, or if the degree of complexing is known. The previously postulated aqueous silica-sulfate complexing in aqueous Na 2 SO 4 solutions is supported by results of the present effective density of water model.
Deterministic controlled-NOT gate for single-photon two-qubit quantum logic.

We demonstrate a robust implementation of a deterministic linear-optical controlled-not gate for single-photon two-qubit quantum logic. A polarization Sagnac interferometer with an embedded 45 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}-oriented dove prism is used to enable the polarization control qubit to act on the momentum (spatial) target qubit of the same photon. The optical controlled-not gate requires no active stabilization because the two spatial modes share a common path, and it is used to entangle the polarization and momentum qubits.
Hydrodynamic Aspects of Shock Tube Spectroscopy

Time-resolved spectroscopic observations with the shock tube are described. Emission spectra are recorded for the high-temperature gas behind the shock reflected from the closed end of the tube. Simultaneous observations are made of the hydrodynamic variables. The state of the emitting gas is predicted by hydrodynamic theory and correlated with the observed spectrum. Deviations from ideal theory caused by viscosity and heat conduction are recognized, and their influence upon pressure and temperature is appraised by direct measurement.
Visual perception during smooth pursuit eye movements.

Abstract With accurate measurement of eye position during smooth tracking, comparison of the retinal and perceived paths of spots of light moving in harmonic motion indicates little compensation for smooth pursuit eye movements by the perceptual system. The data suggest that during smooth pursuit, the perceptual system has access to information about direction of tracking, and assumes a relatively low speed, almost irrespective of the actual speed of the eye. It appears, then, that the specification of innervation to the extraocular muscles for smooth tracking is predominantly peripheral, i.e. it occurs beyond the stage in the efferent command process monitored by perception.
The Ancash, Peru, earthquake of 1946 November 10: evidence for low-angle normal faulting in the high Andes of northern Peru

Summary The Ancash, Peru, earthquake is the largest and best documented intracontinental normal-fault earthquake to have occurred in historically recorded time along the Andean margin of South America. The fault geometry and the rupture processes of this earthquake provide information on how normal faulting develops in a predominantly compressional regime, and on the hazards associated with normal faulting in other parts of the Andes. A re-evaluation of first-motion data, intensity data, and epicentre locations, coupled with waveform modelling, suggests that the earthquake occurred along a fault that dips 30°± 10° at a hypocentral depth of 15–17 km. Geological information also suggests that the earthquake reactivated an older thrust fault that was favourably orientated with respect to the present regional stress regime.
Cr75Si25 thin films—Temperature dependence of electrical properties and microstructure

Abstract Electrical and microstructural changes of Cr 75 Si 25 thin co-evaporated alloy films have been studied as a function of temperature from room temperature to 950°C. In situ resistivity measurements, hot stage transmission electron microscopy, Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy, Seeman-Bohlin and Bragg-Brentano X-ray diffraction methods were applied. The observed two-stage decrease in resistivity, abrupt and then gradual, is associated with “primary” and “secondary” crystallization processes. In the “primary” stage the major portion of the amorphous film crystallizes. In the “secondary” stage the amorphous residue crystallizes. After the crystallization process is completed, a nonlinear, irreversible increase in resistivity, above 670°C, resulting from thermal grooving at grain boundaries, has been observed. Heating to high temperatures also generates mixed preferred orientation. The mechanism of crystallization is random nucleation and quasi-isotropic growth, but the process is primarily nucleation controlled. In the isothermal transformations near 300°C the “secondary” crystallization was not observed, nor was the preferred orientation. A good linear fit between the resistivity and the isothermally transformed volume fraction was found only up to 0.35. For higher values deviation from linearity was noted, which results from the formation of continuous conducting paths along crystallized particles. The isothermal transformations follows a sigmoidal curve. The apparent activation energy of crystallization was found to be 2.71 eV. The mode parameter, n , was found to change from ~2 for films between 500 and 1650 A thick to ~3 for films of 3000 A in thickness indicating a change from the two dimensional to the three-dimensional mode of transformation.
Distribution of capnocytophaga in periodontal microfloras.

Concentrations and incidence of capnocytophagae were determined in 559 samples from persons with moderate (MP), severe (SP), and localized juvenile (JP) periodontitis; persons with healthy gingiva; and children and adults participating in experimental gingivitis studies. Capnocytophagae were most frequent in four children who participated in an experimental gingivitis study. The lowest incidence and concentrations were found in subgingival floras of affected sites of persons with MP, SP, or JP. Statistically significantly (P = 0.02 to 0.05) higher proportions of capnocytophagae were found in a) sites in children with gingival index (GI) of 0 than similar sites in adults, b) sites in children with GI of 2 than GI of 0, c) supragingival and subgingival samples from healthy persons than subgingival samples from SP, d) supragingival samples from SP than subgingival samples from SP and from JP, e) supragingival samples from MP than subgingival samples from SP. These data from cross-sectional studies indicate that the significance of capnocytophagae in the etiology of periodontal diseases has been overestimated. Their higher incidence and proportional concentrations in healthy sites and supragingival floras than in the subgingival sulcus of sites with attachment loss would indicate that they are not as competitive in the sulcus as they are on the exposed tooth surface and would argue against their being active agents of these types of destructive periodontal diseases. However, preliminary data from three persons (MP) participating in longitudinal studies show that in one of the three persons the levels of C. ochracea increased to 10 to 20% of the flora in subgingival samples in which there had been at least a 2 mm loss of attachment within three months. No capnocytophagae were isolated from similar sites in one other person, and they constituted 6% of the flora in the breakdown site in the third person.
Rapid clinical effectiveness of MIF-I in the treatment of major depressive illness

A double-blind 28 day study was conducted to compare the anti-depressant efficacy of MIF-I with that of imipramine. Twenty patients hospitalized with major depressive illness participated. Clinical responses were measured by using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, the Global Severity of Illness Scale, the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale as well as the 100 mm line self-rating for depression. The results indicate that MIF-I was at least as effective as imipramine in this study, and that its anti-depressive effect was a rapid and often dramatic one.
Influence of Sheath Materials on the Strain Tolerance of Bi-2223 Superconducting Tapes

The critical current versus tensile strain characteristics of mono- and multi-filament Bi-2223 tapes with Ag and AgMn and AgMg sheath has been studied. The strain tolerance e0.9 of naked mono- and 37-filament Bi-2223 tapes were 0.13% and 0.20%, respectively. Ag sheath increased the strain tolerance e0.9 of critical current by 0.08% and 0.16% for mono-filament and 37-filament Bi-2223/Ag tapes. The e0.9 of Bi-2223 with Ag and AgMn and AgMg sheath increased with filament number. AgMn and AgMg sheath, increasing e0.9 of Bi-2223 tapes by 0.07-0.09%, are effective to improve strain tolerance of critical current for multifilamentary Bi-2223 tapes.
Milton Friedman's monetary economics and the quantity-theory tradition

Abstract This article provides a selective review of Milton Friedman's contributions to monetary economics focusing on five areas in particular: the demand for money, the joint historical and empirical work with Anna J. Schwartz, the theoretical and empirical analyses of the Phillips Curve, monetary policy and monetary dynamics.
Family conflict and somatic symptoms over 10 years: a growth mixture model analysis.

article Objective: While family conflict and somatic symptoms are mutually associated, few longitudinal studies have examined multiple (heterogeneous) trajectory subgroups for family conflict and somatic symptoms and their covariation over time. The aim of this study was to identify heterogeneous trajectory subgroups for family conflict and somatic symptoms and their joint trajectories. Methods: A representative sample of 424 community participants completed surveys at baseline and 1-, 4-, and 10-year follow-ups. Family conflict and somatic symptoms were assessed at each wave. Covariates (age, gender, marital status, education, and medical conditions) were assessed at baseline. Growth mixture modeling (GMM) was used to identify heterogeneous trajectory subgroups for family conflict and somatic symptoms. A parallel process GMM was used to examine joint trajectory subgroup membership between family conflict and somatic symptoms. Results: There were three trajectory subgroups for family conflict: stable low; worsening ;a ndimproving, and three somewhat similar trajectory subgroups for somatic symptoms: stable low; stable moderate; and improving .F amilyconflict and somaticsymptom trajectory subgroup memberships werejointly associated. Individuals who had stable low family conflict were most likely to follow a stable low somatic symptom trajec- tory. Individuals who improved in family conflict were most likely to continue to have stable low somatic symp- tomsorimproveinsomaticsymptoms.Moreover,individualswhohadstablemoderate somatic symptomswere most likely to show worsening family conflict. Conclusion: This study demonstrates heterogeneous family conflict and somatic symptom trajectories and indicates that these trajectories covary over time.
Genome Sequence of the Curdlan-Producing Agrobacterium sp. Strain ATCC 31749

ABSTRACT Agrobacterium sp. ATCC 31749 is an industrial strain for the commercial production of curdlan, an important exopolysaccharide with food and medical applications. Here we report the genome sequence of the curdlan-producing strain ATCC 31749. Genome sequencing is the first step toward the understanding of regulation of curdlan biosynthesis.
Experimental Charge Densities and Intermolecular Interactions: Electrostatic and Topological Analysis of DL-Histidine

A high-resolution, low-temperature X-ray diffraction data set on dl-histidine, collected with a CCD detector, is used in the analysis of molecular bonding and intermolecular interactions. The molecular dipole moment in the crystal is enhanced relative to that from HF and DFT calculations. Topological properties of the molecular electron density differ from theory for the polar bonds but generally agree well for the C−C bonds in the molecule. A major aim of the study is the evaluation of the electrostatic contribution to the intermolecular interactions from the experimental density. The electrostatic interaction energies between pairs of neighboring molecules, as calculated from the experimental density, compare reasonably well with the total interaction energies from supermolecule calculations. The agreement is somewhat improved by the addition of nonelectrostatic repulsion and dispersive terms, which together contribute much less than the electrostatic energy. The electrostatic interaction energy calcula...
Quantitative assessment of changes in aortic dimensions in response to in situ perfusion fixation at physiological pressures

The study of atherosclerosis often involves evaluation of aortic tissue. The effects of the fixation process on aortic dimensions is and issue of concern. Using aortography we have quantitatively assessed changes in aortic dimensions during in situ perfusion fixation at physiological pressures with 2 commonly used fixative solutions. Two dimensional aortic luminal (TDAL) areas, obtained by planimetry from X-ray images after opaque dye injection (aortography), decreased both early during perfusion fixation and later with cessation of the physiological pressure. These reductions were variable, irrespective of the fixation solution used. Long-term perfusion fixation (10 1/2-12 h) reduced, but did not prevent, changes in TDAL area compared with changes observed following a 1-h perfusion fixation period.
Controlling Airborne Lead in Indoor Firing Ranges

Abstract Industrial hygiene investigations of indoor firing ranges have revealed adverse health effects in range personnel from lead exposure. The most significant exposure source has been airborne lead generated during weapon firing. Dilution ventilation has been recommended as a way to control lead exposure in indoor ranges by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, and the National Rifle Association. This research evaluated the effectiveness of using source capture local exhaust ventilation in conjunction with dilution ventilation as a means of controlling the lead dusts and fumes. Air monitoring was conducted to determine effectiveness of control techniques for reducing airborne lead concentrations. The first trial was performed during firing of copper-jacketed bullets and using dilution ventilation. The second trial monitored airborne lead while firing lead bullets and utilizing dilution ventilation. The third trial eva...
Interstellar Grains in Primitive Meteorites: Diamond, Silicon Carbide, and Graphite

Primitive meteorites contain a few parts per million (ppm) of pristine interstellar grains that provide information on nuclear and chemical processes in stars. Their interstellar origin is proven by highly anomalous isotopic ratios, varying more than 1000-fold for elements such as C and N. Most grains isolated thus far are stable only under highly reducing conditions (C/O greater than 1), and apparently are 'stardust' formed in stellar atmospheres. Microdiamonds, of median size about 10 A, are most abundant (about 400-1800 ppm) but least understood. They contain anomalous noble gases including Xe-HL, which shows the signature of the r- and p-processes. Silicon carbide, of grain size 0.2-10 microns and abundance about 6 ppm, shows the signature of the s-process and apparently comes mainly from red giant carbon (AGB) stars of 1-3 solar masses. Some grains appear to be not less than 10 exp 9 a older than the solar system. Graphite spherules of grain size 0.8-7 microns and abundance less than 2 ppm contain highly anomalous C and noble gases, as well as large amounts of fossil Mg-26 from the decay of extinct Al-26. They seem to come from at least three sources, probably AGB stars, novae, and Wolf-Rayet stars.
Methotrexate and mortality in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a prospective study.

Summary Background Methotrexate is the most frequent choice of disease-modifying antirheumatic therapy for rheumatoid arthritis. Although results of studies have shown the efficacy of such drugs, including methotrexate, on rheumatoid arthritis morbidity measures, their effect on mortality in patients with the disease remains unknown. Our aim was to prospectively assess the effect on mortality of methotrexate in a cohort of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Methods Our cohort included 1240 patients with rheumatoid arthritis seen at the Wichita Arthritis Center, an outpatient rheumatology facility. Patients’ details were entered into a computerised database at the time of their first clinic visit. We also obtained and recorded demographic, clinical, laboratory, and self-reported data at each follow-up visit (average interval 3·5 months). We estimated the mortality hazard ratio of methotrexate with a marginal structural Cox proportional hazards model. Findings 191 individuals died during follow-up. Patients who began treatment with methotrexate (n=588) had worse prognostic factors for mortality. After adjustment for this confounding by indication, the mortality hazard ratio for methotrexate use compared with no methotrexate use was 0·4 (95% CI 0·2–0·8). Other conventional disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs did not have a significant effect on mortality. The hazard ratio of methotrexate use for cardiovascular death was 0·3 (0·2–0·7), whereas that for noncardiovascular deaths was 0·6 (0·2–1·2). Interpretation Our data indicate that methotrexate may provide a substantial survival benefit, largely by reducing cardiovascular mortality. This survival benefit of methotrexate would set a standard against which new disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs could be compared.
Adulteration of drugs and foods: compendial approaches to lowering risk.

The instances of adulteration of excipients in drug products with diethylene glycol (DEG), and of pet food with melamine, are well-publicized examples of public health risks. This article describes a risk-reduction strategy that is at the core of US food and drug law—testing to public documentary standards and using allied reference materials when needed. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (2009); 85, 4, 444–447 doi:10.1038/clpt.2008.88
Lymph-migrating, tissue-derived dendritic cells are minor constituents within steady-state lymph nodes

Observations that dendritic cells (DCs) constitutively enter afferent lymphatic vessels in many organs and that DCs in some tissues, such as the lung, turnover rapidly in the steady state have led to the concept that a major fraction of lymph node DCs are derived from migratory DCs that enter the lymph node through upstream afferent lymphatic vessels. We used the lysozyme M-Cre reporter mouse strain to assess the relationship of lymph node and nonlymphoid organ DCs. Our findings challenge the idea that a substantial proportion of lymph node DCs derive from the upstream tissue during homeostasis. Instead, our analysis suggests that nonlymphoid organ DCs comprise a major population of DCs within lymph nodes only after introduction of an inflammatory stimulus.
STRABISMUS, A NOVEL GENE THAT REGULATES TISSUE POLARITY AND CELL FATE DECISIONS IN DROSOPHILA

Polarity in the Drosophila eye is manifested as a dorsoventral reflection of two chiral forms of the individual unit eyes, or ommatidia. These forms fall on opposite sides of a dorsoventral midline of mirror symmetry known as the equator. Polarity is established in the eye imaginal disc as cells adopt their fates and as the ommatidial precursors undergo coordinated rotation within the epithelium; the mechanisms that coordinate these early patterning events remain poorly understood. We have identified a novel gene, strabismus (stbm), which is required to establish polarity in the eye, legs and bristles of Drosophila. Many stbm ommatidia are reversed anteroposteriorly and/or dorsoventrally. In stbm eye discs, ommatidial rotation is delayed and some ommatidial precursors initiate rotation in the wrong direction. Mosaic analysis indicates that stbm is ommatidium autonomous and required in most, if not all, photoreceptors within an ommatidium to establish normal polarity. stbm also appears to play an instructive role during the establishment of the fates of photoreceptors R3 and R4. stbm encodes a novel protein with a potential PDZ domain-binding motif and two possible transmembrane domains. Sequence analysis of both vertebrate and invertebrate homologs indicates that stbm has been highly conserved throughout evolution.
Adaptive models of pop-up threats for multi-agent persistent area denial

Adversarial ground assets that become observable for short durations are modeled as adaptive Markov chains. Multiple Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAVs) are cooperatively deployed to reach the threats in the shortest time. This paper describes the threat modeling and movement strategies for the UAVs. Simulation experiments indicate that this approach is appropriate for addressing persistent area denial problems.
Executive Function in Children and Adolescents with Critical Cyanotic Congenital Heart Disease

Children and adolescents with critical cyanotic congenital heart disease (CHD) are at risk for deficits in aspects of executive function (EF). The primary aim of this investigation was to compare EF outcomes in three groups of children/adolescents with severe CHD and controls (ages 10-19 years). Participants included 463 children/adolescents with CHD [dextro-transposition of the great arteries (TGA), n=139; tetralogy of Fallot (TOF), n=68; and, single-ventricle anatomy requiring Fontan procedure (SVF), n=145] and 111 controls, who underwent laboratory and informant-based evaluation of EF skills. Rates of EF impairment on D-KEFS measures were nearly twice as high for CHD groups (75-81%) than controls (43%). Distinct EF profiles were documented between CHD groups on D-KEFS tasks. Deficits in flexibility/problem-solving and verbally mediated EF skills were documented in all three CHD groups; visuo-spatially mediated EF abilities were impaired in TOF and SVF groups, but preserved in TGA. Parent, teacher, and self-report ratings on the BRIEF highlighted unique patterns of metacognitive and self-regulatory concerns across informants. CHD poses a serious threat to EF development. Greater severity of CHD is associated with worse EF outcomes. With increased understanding of the cognitive and self-regulatory vulnerabilities experienced by children and adolescents with CHD, it may be possible to identify risks early and provide individualized supports to promote optimal neurodevelopment.
Ultraviolet irradiation and absorptiometric methods for the determination of diethylstilbestrol in tablets.

The present official method for the determination of diethylstilbestrol is not specific, and incomplete extraction of active material from small dosage tablets is often encountered. To circumvent these difficulties, two new methods of assay have been developed. The procedures depend on photochemical changes which diethylstilbestrol undergoes when it is irradiated with short wavelength ultraviolet light and on the reproducible shift of the ultraviolet absorption spectrum of diethylstilbestrol in acid and in alkaline solution. Apparatus for the irradiation method includes a suitable strong ultraviolet light source and a spectrophotometer capable of measuring visible light absorption, while the ultraviolet absorptiometric method requires a spectrophotometer operating in the ultraviolet region. Interferences in the irradiation procedure are primarily inhibitory in nature while those in the UV absorptiometric method are those compounds which exhibit a shift in absorption spectrum in the 280 mμ range in acid and alkaline solution. The nature of the pigment produced by irradiation is not known.
Amplitude-dependent behaviour of a liquid-filled gyroscope

An analysis of the experimentally determined resonant amplitude and frequencies of oscillation of a gyroscope whose rotor contains liquid-filled cylindrical cavities reveals a surprising small amplitude instability region that is not predicted by the Stewartson instability criterion for a liquid-filled spinning top. Along with the experimental results and speculation concerning the cause of the observed phenomenon, there are presented some practical implications of the observations of use to designers of spinning vehicles containing liquid.