cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An electrolytic servo-system and the study of oxidative phosphorylation.

A variety of drugs markedly influence mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and other enzyme catalyzed electron exchange reactions. The electrolytic servo-system described is useful in the study of these reactions and the effect of drugs thereon. The servo-system functions to maintain a mediator, transferring electrons between an enzyme system and a metallic electrode, at a constant predetermined potential. The utility of the instrument is demonstrated in a study of the phosphate-uptake associated with the oxidation of α-ketoglutaric acid by rat liver mitochondria, with ferro-/ferri-cyanide serving as mediator. The selectivity of ferricyanide as an electron acceptor is demonstrated in a study involving the use of Antimycin A. 1 The use of the instrument as a low current potentiostat is also presented.
Sleep patterns in children and young adults with mental retardation and severe behavior disorders

The 24-hour sleep-wake schedules of 51 individuals (age 3 to 21 years) with mental retardation and severe behavior disorders were recorded using a direct-observation data collection system over an average period of approximately one month. The patients in the study had significantly less total sleep and less night sleep than their peers of the same age, and 88% had disturbances of sleep: delays in getting to sleep, frequent night waking or early waking. 'Appropriate' sleep, a measure of the amount and regularity of sleep, correlated positively with standardized measures of IQ and expressive language. 'Total' sleep, that is, the overall number of hours, was not correlated with measures of cognitive functioning. The findings are compared with those from other studies describing the sleep of individuals with mental retardation. Language: en
Immune components in human dental periapical lesions.

Abstract Immunofluorescence techniques were used to investigate periapical lesions for the presence of components indicative of hypersensitivity reactions mediated by humoral factors. In periapical granulomas, IgG, IgA, IgM and IgE cells represented 70, 14, 4 and 10 per cent, respectively, of the immunoglobulin-containing cells (ICC) observed. Intact and apparently degranulating mast cells were seen in the vicinity of the IgE ICC. Thus, components required for anaphylactic-type hypersensitivity were present in these lesions. The connective tissue of unwashed periapical granulomas stained intensely for IgG but less so for IgA and complement (C3). Prewashing failed to eliminate this staining which suggested that a portion of these components were bound to tissue. Quick-frozen sections showed enhanced C3 fluorescence both of connective tissue and of structures resembling small blood vessels. The potential therefore also exists for antigen-antibody complex-type hypersensitivity in this type of lesion. Radicular cysts showed a different pattern of fluorescence in that both IgG and IgA represented 45 per cent of the ICC, whereas IgM and IgE ICC each represented 5 per cent of the ICC. Only anti-IgG tissue fluorescence was noteworthy in cystic tissue. The one periapical scar examined revealed no cellular or connective tissue staining. Thus, periapical tissues can contain the components necessary for host immunopathologic responses. These responses may participate in the development of periapical pathosis.
Esophageal replacement using the colon: Is it a good choice?

Thirty-eight children (2 months to 26 years of age) underwent esophageal replacement at our institution between 1962 and 1993. Twenty-four patients had esophageal atresia, with the replacement performed at a mean age of 17 months. The remaining patients (37%) had strictures and were older (mean, 7.4 years). Replacement procedures involved the right colon in 61% of cases and the transverse left colon in the others (39%). Sixty-three percent were placed substernally and 37% were done in transthoracic fashion. The average length of stay in the hospital was 34 days (range, 11 to 256 days.) Early complications (within 30 days) included cervical anastomotic leaks (11 patients; 29%) pneumonia (4), would infection (2), pneumothorax/hemothorax (3), wound dehiscence (1), prolonged ventilation (2), vocal cord paralysis (1), Horner's syndrome (1), pancreatitis (1), and perforated graft (1). Despite the incidence of early leaks, only two persisted long-term (more than 3 months). Other late complications included significant proximal strictures (5), and cologastric strictures developed in five patients. Seven cases were considered graft failures (18%), and all of these eventually require graft replacement. Additional problems included redundant graft requiring revision (4) and dumping syndrome (2). There were six cases of intestinal obstruction caused by adhesions. Four of these involved intrathoracic obstruction of the graft and two involved small bowel obstruction. There was only one death, which occurred late and was not related to the primary disease or procedure. Long-term follow-up data were available for 20 patients (53%). The follow-up period ranged from 1 to 33 years (mean, 12 years). Fourteen had excellent results after the initial interposition, being able to eat and function well without any further intervention. Seven patients (18%) have had poor results and 17 (45%) required additional procedures to obtain good functional results. In our experience, the colon continues to be a good option for esophageal replacement, but additional procedures frequently are necessary to optimize the functional outcome. Good results can be expected in the majority of cases, but late problems (ie, redundant colon and poor emptying) are not unusual, and careful follow-up is essential in the management of such patients.
Prenatal morphine exposure alters estrogen regulation of κ receptors in the cortex and POA of adult female rats but has no effects on these receptors in adult male rats

The binding characteristics of kappa receptors were assessed in the frontal cortex (CX), striatum, hypothalamus, preoptic area (POA), cerebellum, and ventral tegmental area of adult male and female rats exposed prenatally to morphine or saline. Prenatal morphine exposure altered estrogen regulation of kappa receptors in the CX and POA of females, but had no effects on kappa receptors in any of the examined brain regions in male rats.
An equilibrium existence theorem without complete or transitive preferences

Abstract The Walrasian equilibrium existence theorem is reproved without the assumptions of complete of transitive preferences.
Development of a fuzzy-nets-based surface roughness prediction system in turning operations

This paper discusses the development of a surface roughness prediction system for a turning operation, using a fuzzy-nets modeling technique. The goal is to develop and train a fuzzy-nets-based surface roughness prediction (FN-SRP) system that will predict the surface roughness of a turned workpiece using accelerometer measurements of turning parameters and vibration data. The FN-SRP system has been developed using a computer numerical control (CNC) slant-bed lathe with a carbide cutting tool. The system was trained using feed rate, spindle speed, and tangential vibration data collected during experimental runs. A series of validation runs indicate that this system has a mean accuracy of 95%.
WE-D-9A-05: Medical Hyperspectral Imaging for the Detection of Head and Neck Cancer in Animal Models

Purpose: The objective of this study is to develop hyperspectral imaging technology and advanced image analysis methods for the detection of head and neck cancer. Methods: A head and neck tumor xenograft model was used in the experiment. The M4E head and neck cancer cells with green fluorescence protein (GFP) were injected into nude mice. Hyperspectral images were acquired from the tumor-bearing mice using a CRI Maestro invivo imaging camera. The wavelength setting was defined within the range of 450–950 nm with 2 nm increments. Two advanced image classification methods were developed to classify normal and cancer tissue on hyperspectral images. In the first method, a tensor-based computation and modeling framework was proposed for the analysis of hyperspectral images for cancer detection. In the second classification method, support vector machines were incorporated into a minimum spanning forest algorithm for differentiating cancer tissue from normal tissue. The classification results were validated by the GPP images of the same animals. Results: The tensor-based classification method can distinguish between malignant tissue and healthy tissue with an average sensitivity of 97.0% and an average specificity of 91.4% in tumor-bearing mice. The minimum spanning forest algorithm also achieved a high accuracy of more than 97.0% in the animal model. Conclusion: The hyperspectral imaging and classification technology has been demonstrated in animal models and can have many potential applications in cancer research and management. This research is supported in part by NIH grants (R01CA156775, R21CA176684, and P50CA128301) and Georgia Cancer Coalition Distinguished Clinicians and Scientists Award.
Synthesis, Purification, and Structural Characterization of the Dimethyldiselenoarsinate Anion

A novel arsenic-selenium solution species was synthesized by reacting equimolar sodium selenite and sodium dimethylarsinate with 10 mol equiv of glutathione (pH 7.5) in aqueous solution. The solution species showed a single (77)Se NMR resonance at 112.8 ppm. Size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) using an inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometer (ICP-AES) as the simultaneous arsenic-, selenium-, sulfur-, and carbon-specific detector revealed an arsenic-selenium moiety with an As:Se molar ratio of 1:2. Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) of the chromatographically purified compound showed a molecular mass peak at m/z 263 in the negative ion mode. Fragmentation of the parent ion (ESI-MS-MS) produced (CH(3))(2)As(-) and Se(2)(-) fragments. Arsenic and selenium extended X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy (EXAFS) of the purified species revealed two As-C interactions at 1.943 A and two As-Se interactions at 2.279 A. On the basis of these results this novel solution species is identified as the dimethyldiselenoarsinate anion.
Proteasome-mediated proteolysis of estrogen receptor: a novel component in autologous down-regulation.

Regulation of estrogen receptor (ER) concentration is a key component in limiting estrogen responsiveness in target cells. Yet the mechanisms governing ER concentration in the lactotrope cells of the anterior pituitary, a major site of estrogen action, are undetermined. In this study, we used a lactotrope cell line, PR1, to explore regulation of ER protein by estrogen. Estrogen treatment resulted in an approximate 60% decrease in ER steady state protein levels. Suprisingly, the decline in ER protein was apparent within 1 h of estrogen treatment and occurred in the absence of protein synthesis and transcription. Direct regulation of ER protein was further confirmed by pulse chase analysis, which showed that ER protein half-life was shortened from greater than 3 h to 1 h in the presence of estrogen. The estrogen-induced degradation of ER protein could be prevented by pretreatment with peptide aldehyde inhibitors of pro-teasome protease whereas inhibitors of calpain and lysosomal proteases were ineffective. ...
Facial screening: Effects on appropriate and inappropriate behaviors

Abstract Facial screening involves covering the subject's face for a number of seconds contingent upon the occurrence of the target behavior. This technique was applied to a disruptive behavior (hand clapping) during a language training class, and its effects on appropriate verbal responses were also examined. The subject was a 7-yr-old schizophrenic boy. Facial screening suppressed hand clapping but had no effect on correct verbal responses. Positive reinforcement increased appropriate verbalizations but had no effect on hand clapping. Follow-up data collected at 6 months indicated that the treatment gains had been maintained.
Stemflow, throughfall and channelization of stemflow by roots in three Chihuahuan desert shrubs

Three studies were conducted to examine precipitation–vegetation relationships in the multi–stemmed shrubsLarrea tridentata, Prosopis glandulosaandFlourensia cernuain a desert ecosystem. We measured stemflow and throughfall as affected by bulk precipitation, canopy architecture and stem-angles. Using fluorescent dye, we traced root channelization of stemflow water. Stepwise regression analysis showed that the best one-variable model for stemflow inL. tridentatawas canopy volume, which accounted for 87% of variation. The best one-variable model for stemflow inP. glandulosaandF. cernuawas canopy area, which accounted for 82% of variation in both species. Stemflow data from winter and summer months were statistically compared to determine the influence of leaves on stemflow generation inP. glandulosaandF. cernua. Stemflow amounts collected during winter months do not differ significantly from those of summer months demonstrating that in these winter deciduous species the absence of leaves during winter months does not affect generation of stemflow. Analysis of variance showed that the percentage of throughfall was different among species suggesting that variations in canopy characteristics could explain, in part, these interspecific throughfall differences. Both stem-angle and stem-length had a significant effect on stemflow generation inF. cernuaandL. tridentata, whereas there was only a significant relationship between stem-angle and stemflow inP. glandulosa. Analysis of rhodamine-B dye distribution under shrubs indicated that root channels are preferential pathways for movement of stemflow water into soil, and that this water is potentially the source of soil moisture which allows shrubs to remain physiologically active under drought conditions.
Studies of monoamine oxidases: properties of the enzyme in bovine and rabbit brain mitochondria.

Brain mitochondria were prepared from rabbit and bovine cerebral cortex and the purity and intactness of the preparation assessed through the use of enzyme markers and electron microscopy. Enzymatic properties of monoamine oxidase were studied in the purified mitochondrial preparations which were essentially devoid of major contamination by other organelles, especially microsomes. Five substrates were used for characterization of the enzyme: dopamine, kynuramine, serotonin, tryptamine and tyramine. It was found that there was considerable substrate variation in the properties, but in general, the two species showed similar characteristics. The more pertinent findings were: (1) apparent Km values ranged from 1.1 ± 10−5m for tryptamine to 2.5 ± 10−4m for dopamine; (2) substrate specificity from Vmax values in decreasing order was tyramine > dopamine > kynuramine > serotonin > tryptamine for the bovine enzyme and tyramine > kynuramine > dopamine > serotonin > tryptamine for rabbit; (3) there appeared to be three distinct pH optima according to substrate: pH 7.5 for phenylethylamines, pH 8.2–8.5 for the indolylamines and pH 9.1 for kynuramine; and (4) the activity with tyramine was highly sensitive to increased oxygen tension while kynuramine showed no sensitivity. It is proposed that the properties of monoamine oxidase, a membrane-bound enzyme, might be influenced by the microenvironment and results are also discussed in terms of multiple forms or multiple activity sites on a single form.
MEMS-based silicon ultrasonic twin-nozzle nebulizer for inhalation drug delivery

A versatile silicon-based ultrasonic nebulizer that utilizes a twin-nozzle of multiple Fourier horns at 1–2 MHz drive frequencies has been realized to perform simultaneous aerosolization of cobinamide and magnesium thiosulfate drug solutions. The drive frequency of the individual nozzle for a desirable aerosol diameter was individually designed. Using the 2.0 MHz 4-Fourier horn twin-nozzle aerosols of the two drug solutions with mass median diameter (MMD) of 3.0±0.1µm and geometrical standard deviation (GSD) of 1.18±0.02 and total flow rate up to 400µL/min were produced.
Fourier transform emission spectroscopy of the A1Σ+-X1Σ+ transition of CuD

Les bandes 0-0, 0-1 et 1-1 de la transition A 1 Σ + -X 1 Σ + de CuD sont identifiees a l'aide du spectre d'emission a transformee de Fourier. Les constantes moleculaires de 63 CuD et 65 CuD (constantes de rotation et de la valeur de ΔG 1/2 a l'etat fondamental) sont affinees. Ces resultats completent ceux obtenus a partir du spectre de rotation-vibration pour CuH
Histone deacetylase inhibitor trichostatin A and proteasome inhibitor PS-341 synergistically induce apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cells.

Abstract Pancreatic cancer is a common and lethal malignancy. Pancreatic cancer cells overexpress multiple anti-apoptotic factors and death receptor decoys, and are strongly resistant to radiation and to 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)- or gemcitabine (Gem)-based chemotherapy regimens. We have found that low-dose proteasome inhibitor PS-341 and histone deacetylase inhibitor trichostatin A (TSA) synergistically induce cytotoxicity in a panel of eight diverse pancreatic cancer cell lines. Combining TSA with PS-341 effectively inactivated NFκB signaling, downregulated the predominant endogenous anti-apoptotic factor Bcl-XL overexpression, and disrupted MAP kinase pathway. The combined drug regimen effectively inflicted an average of 71.5% apoptotic cell death (55.2–80%) in diverse pancreatic cancer cell lines by activating the intrinsic apoptotic pathway. Conclusion: the TSA/PS-341 regimen may represent a potential novel therapeutic strategy for pancreatic cancer.
Factors associated with operative outcomes in laparoscopic gastric bypass.

Abstract Background Laparoscopic gastric bypass (GBP) is becoming a common approach for treatment of morbid obesity. We analyzed preoperative factors that may be associated with operative outcomes in laparoscopic GBP. Study design This prospective study evaluates 150 consecutive laparoscopic GBP procedures performed by a single surgeon. Preoperative factors were grouped into three categories: 1) patient-specific (gender, age, abdominal surgical history, smoking), 2) obesity-specific (body mass index, hypertension, diabetes, sleep apnea), and 3) procedure-specific (operative experience of the surgeon [75 cases or less versus more than 75 cases]). Length of operation (240 minutes or less versus more than 240 minutes), postoperative complications (yes versus no), major complications (yes versus no), reoperation (yes versus no), and length of hospital stay (4 days or less versus more than 4 days) were the operative outcomes considered. In this series all patients who had a major complication required a reoperation. Data were analyzed using univariate and multiple logistic regression analyses. Results Operative experience of surgeon (75 cases or less) was associated with lengthy operative time (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 3.8; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.7 to 8.3), major complications (AOR, 15.0; 95% CI, 1.5 to 143.0), and a lengthy (more than 4 days) hospital stay (AOR, 4.5; 95% CI, 1.1 to 18.0). Higher patient age (50 years or more) was associated with more postoperative complications (AOR, 11.4; 95% CI, 3.0 to 43.1) and major complications (AOR, 7.6; 95% CI, 1.1 to 48.7). Male gender also was associated with more postoperative complications (AOR 5.2; 95% CI, 1.1 to 23.1). Obesity-related comorbidities, body mass index, past abdominal surgical history, and smoking had no statistical association with operative outcomes in this study. Conclusions There is an association of clinical outcomes after laparoscopic GBP with the age and gender of the patient and the operative experience of the surgeon. An operative experience of more than 75 laparoscopic GBP cases was associated with decreases in operative time, length of hospital stay, and number of major complications.
Numerical Investigation of a Liquid Droplet Impinging on a Heated Surface

Previous studies, most of them experimental, reveal that the cooling effectiveness of a water drop impinging on a heated surface depends on the wall temperature, droplet shape and velocity. All previous studies focus on the behavior of a droplet falling in a quiescent environment, such as still air. Evidence in the literature also shows that gas assisted droplet sprays, in which a gas phase propels the droplets, are more efficient in heat removal than sprays consisting of droplets alone. It is conjectured that this is due to an increase in the maximum droplet spreading diameter upon impact, a thinner film, and consequently an increase in the overall heat transfer coefficient. Recent experiments in the author’s group [1, 2] show that the carrier gas jet strongly influences droplet spreading dynamics by imposing normal and shear forces on the liquid surface. The heat transfer is greatly augmented in the process, compared to a free falling droplet. To date, there has been no fundamental investigation of the physics of gas assisted spray cooling. To begin to understand the complicated process, this paper reports on a fundamental problem of a single liquid droplet that impinges on a heated surface. This paper contributes a numerical investigation of the problem using the volume of fluid (VOF) technique to capture droplet spreading dynamics and heat transfer in a single drop event. The fluid mechanics is investigated and compared to the experimental data. The greatest uncertainty in the simulation is in the specification of the contact angle of the advancing or receding liquid front, and in capturing the onset of the three-dimensional fingering phenomena.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Correlation of LUMO localization with the α-amylase inhibition constant in a Tendamistat-based series of linear and cyclic peptides

Abstract The glycosidase α-amylase is responsible for the hydrolysis of α(1→4) glycosidic linkages found in dietary starch as one means for controlling blood sugar level. The effect of α-amylase is detrimental, however, in the disease state diabetes mellitus, where blood glucose levels are elevated due to a biochemical defect. Inhibition of the enzyme’s activity would reduce glucose absorption by the small intestine. Our objective was to develop small peptides based on essential binding elements of the natural protein inhibitor, Tendamistat. These smaller analogs may be better studied structurally and conformationally to help us understand molecular-level interactions. In addition, we have been able to correlate the activity of our compounds with the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) localization in energy-minimized conformations. The positive charge/LUMO of most active inhibitors is localized on the central Arg residue of the required triplet. This provides a predictive model for the design of active molecules.
Selective imaging of biofilms in porous media by NMR relaxation.

Nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (NMRI) techniques were employed to identify and selectively image biological films (biofilm) growing in aqueous systems. Biofilms are shown to affect both the longitudinal (T1) and transverse (T2) NMR relaxation time values of proximal water hydrogens. Results are shown for biofilm growth experiments performed in a transparent parallel-plate reactor. A comparison of biofilm distributions by both NMR and optical imaging yielded general agreement for both an open-flow system and an idealized porous system (the reactor without and with packed glass beads, respectively). The selective imaging of biofilm by relaxation NMRI is dependent upon the resolution of relaxation times for the fluid phases, dynamic range, and signal-to-noise ratio. For open-flow systems, the use of a rapid and quantitative T2-sorted NMRI technique was preferred. For porous systems where T2 values are generally more similar, a T1-weighted technique was preferred.
Chondroid expression by lapine articular chondrocytes in spinner culture following monolayer growth.

When articular chondrocytes from rabbits 2 to 3 months old were transferred from confluent monolayer to spinner culture, they ceased to proliferate but deposited large quantities of metachromatic extracellular material. Return of the suspended cells to monolayer conditions resulted in renewal of DNA and marked depression of sulfated glycosaminoglycan (GAG) synthesis. The GAG of rabbit articular cartilage were heterogeneous and included 4.9% hyaluronate, 11.6% unsulfated chondroitin, 18.7%, disulfated chondroitin and 2.4% dermatan sulfate in addition to chondroitin sulfates 4 and 6. Monolayer cultured chondrocytes produced higher levels of sulfated GAG but much smaller quantities of hyaluronate than did dermal fibrocytes. The GAG synthesized by chondrocytes in spinner culture closely resembled those of whole cartilage or synthesized by whole cartilage in organ culture.
Note: A micro-perfusion system for use during real-time physiological studies under high pressure

We construct a micro-perfusion system using piston screw pump generators for use during real-time, high-pressure physiological studies. Perfusion is achieved using two generators, with one generator being compressed while the other is retracted, thus maintaining pressurization while producing fluid flow. We demonstrate control over perfusion rates in the 10-μl/s range and the ability to change between fluid reservoirs at up to 50 MPa. We validate the screw-pump approach by monitoring the cyanide-induced response of UV-excited autofluorescence from Saccharomyces cerevisiae under pressurization.
Teaching models in an ambulatory training program

Ambulatory care training is increasingly important in internal medicine. Such training centers on the practice where residents and faculty see their patients; thus, features of the practice model influence what residents learn. A resident-faculty group practice affiliated with a division of general internal medicine has many advantages. In such a practice, learning centers on resident-patient interactions, around which a comprehensive teaching program must be built. Major features of such a program include the mentoring of residents by faculty who work with them longitudinally and the presence of a well-balanced structured curriculum addressing clinical and nonclinical topics related to patient care. Teaching residents to interact and communicate with patients is crucial; approaches include role-modeling by faculty, use of videotaping, and role-playing and other innovative methods. Feedback is integral to learning and helps shape the attitudes and values that permeate residents’ practices.
Synthesis of bradykinin potentiating pentapeptide (BPP5a).

This synthesis is especially suitable for production of highly-purified bradykinin-potentiating pentapeptide (BPP5a) because of the high yields of the coupling and deprotection reactions, accompanied by minimal side reactions, and the need for only one simple final purification step.
The chemistry of methyl and ethyl radicals on Pt(111) from the decomposition of tri-alkyl bismuth compounds

Abstract The chemistry of trimethyl and triethyl bismuth compounds adsorbed on Pt(111) have been studied using thermal desorption spectroscopy, Auger electron spectroscopy, and high resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy. The tri-alkyl bismuth compounds adsorb molecularly on Pt(111) at 110 K. Upon heating, the R3Bi compound decomposes and alkyl radicals are introduced to the surface. Alkyl radicals and bismuth atoms are delivered to the Pt(111) surface in a 3 : 1 (alkyl : bismuth) ratio. In the presence of Bi, it is expected that the alkyl radical chemistry is not perturbed substantially. Below multilayer coverage, the methyl and ethyl radicals, delivered to the surface by thermal decomposition of the parent, show similar trends in their chemistry. There is some fraction of parent (BiR3) desorption at ~ 190 K The remaining methyl or ethyl radicals follow two reaction pathways. The first reaction channel is dehydrogenation of the methyl or ethyl radical leading to CH or ethylidyne species, respectively, remaining on the surface. The second channel is hydrogenation involving surface hydrogen produced by the dehydrogenation channel which leads to CH4 or CH3CH3 formation, respectively. This pathway leads to reaction rate limited desorption of CH4 with a peak temperature at 280 K and CH3CH3 with a peak temperature at 295 K.
The use of limited surface networks to measure mesoscale phenomena

Abstract Large mesonetworks have successfully demonstrated coupling of surface meteorological phenomena to convective activity. It is unrealistic however, to assume that such networks will be available for wide-area operational applications. This paper examines an alternative to large mesonetworks which applies a limited number of closely spaced (10–20 km) stations to describe mesoβ, meso-γ phenomena. The techniques are applied to data from the Cooperative Convective Precipitation Experiment conducted in southeast Montana during the summer of 1981. Examples are presented for a benign day, a day having limited convective activity, and a period having a severe convective storm. Each of these periods shows distinctive trends of convergence, vorticity and total atmospheric energy. Surface convergence shows little variance during the quiescent portions of the day. Heating and convection are accompanied by increased variance of convergence and a more organized character of its time plots. The vertical component...
Asymptotically efficient estimators when the densities of the observations have discontinuities

Let X1, X2, . . . be independent chance variables with a common density function f(x, 000) at the point x; the density function (d.f.) depends on the value 000 of the real parameter 0, which is unknown to the statistician. In [1] Ibragimov and Hasminski obtained the asymptotic distribution of a stochastic process (similar to that in (4.1) below) naturally connected with the sequence X1, X2, . . . , and of certain functionals of this process. This was done under more or less classical " r e gu l a r " conditions on f ( . , .). A special case of this result is the asymptotic normality of the maximum likelihood (m.1.) estimator. (Throughout this paper we do not distinguish between "es t ima to r" and "sequence of estimators." No confusion will ever be caused thereby.) Since Fisher 's famous paper on the m.1. estimator, asymptotic efficiency has usually been defined as the property of having minimum variance of the limiting normal distribution, among all estimators with limiting normal distribution (with the standard normalization). This definition is already inadequate in the classical " r egu l a r " case, because it limits the competition to be an efficient estimator to estimators which have a l imiting normal distribution. I t fails completely outside the regular case, because then asymptotic normality is also very exceptional. In [11] and [12] (see also [7]) L. Weiss and the present author introduced a notion of asymptotic efficiency (with respect to a set R) which does not have these inadequacies (or other inadequacies of the classical theory). I t also permits the statistician to choose his own loss function, via the set R or directly (see [12]). If, now, one requires f to satisfy the conditions of the (classical) regular case, and, if in addition (what this theory does not require), one admits to competition only asymptotically normal estimators, and chooses R=(--r, r) to be any interval centered at the origin, this notion of efficiency specializes to
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Has Diet Therapy Taken a Place at the Table?

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has been described as the most prevalent childhood disorder, with an estimated incidence as high as 18%. 1 Symptoms include inappropriate hyperactivity, inattention, impulsivity, and the presence of co-existing mental health problems, most notably conduct disorder and oppositional defiant disorder. As with any highly prevalent disease, the risk of encountering unproven and even dangerous remedies for ADHD via advertising and the Internet is very high. It is this level of fad treatments, slow acceptance of alternative medicine in traditional medical practice, and unimpressive early research studies that has made the diet therapy approach to ADHD so controversial. However, recent studies confirm the influence of diet and nutrition on behavior and learning in children and adolescents, particularly with respect to omega-3 fatty acid supplements and behavioral food reactions.
Unequal in the absence of death: a novel screen identifies cytotoxic compounds selective for cells with activated Akt.

Commentary to: Identification of Akt-selective cytotoxic compounds that enhance cytotoxic responses to rapamycin Jennifer F. Barger, Catherine A. Gallo, Kyle A. Torni, Lisa Merk, William L. Seibel, Sandra Nelson and David R. Plas
Stochastic wire length sampling for cycle time estimation

Cycle time models perform an a-priori calculation of local signal delays by estimating the lengths of wires connecting different levels of synchronously clocked logic elements. Typically, a signal will have to pass through approximately 15-25 layers of logic during a single clock cycle and it is has been assumed that this number is sufficiently large to allow average wire lengths to be used. This paper investigates the accuracy of this mean value assumption by comparing cycle times calculating using average wire lengths with cycle times calculated using wires sampled from an estimate of the wire length distribution in each wiring layer. The sampling algorithm provides a more accurate calculation of the cycle time and also an estimate of its variation due to the inherently stochastic nature of the layout process. Results for a benchmark netlist, implemented in 0.25 mm technology, indicate that for a logic depth of 25 the mean value assumption is satisfactory and that clock rate has a standard deviation of approximately 5% of this mean value due to the inherently stochastic nature of the layout process.
Detection of infectious agents by xMAP multiplexed suspension array technology

ABSTRACT The Luminex xMAP system couples bioassays with advanced digital signal processing and proprietary identification techniques to perform multi-analyte testing of up to 100 features in real time. The general configuration of an xMAP assay can be described as a suspension array where specific capture moieties are covalently coupled to the surfaces of internally dyed microspheres. Fluorescent dyes contained w ithin the microspheres provide unique spectral characteristics allowing each microsphere set to be distinguished from all othe rs in the multiplex. The target is labeled for fluorescent detection. Here we describe examples of rapid, multiplexed protein and nucleic aci d analyses for infectious and biothreat agents that demonstrate the utility of the platform. Benefits of the system include speed, economy, flexibility, and advanced capabilities. The potential for simultaneous detection of tens, hundreds, and even thousands of protein and nucleic acid targets provides for simultaneous, ra pid, sensitive, and specific molecular analyses. Keywords: Luminex, xMAP technology, multiplex analysis, susp ension array, immunoassay, nucleic acid detection
Use of an artificial neural network for the diagnosis of myocardial infarction.

Abstract ▪Objective:To validate prospectively the use of an artificial neural network to identify myocardial infarction in patients presenting to an emergency department with anterior chest pain. ▪...
An analytical benchmark for non-equilibrium radiative transfer in an isotropically scattering medium

Abstract Benchmark solutions to nontrivial radiation transport problems are crucial to the validation of transport codes. This paper gives an analytical transport solution for non-equilibrium radiative transfer in an infinite and isotropically scattering medium. The radiation source in the medium is isotropic in angle and constant in time (but only exists in a finite period of time), and is allowed to be uniformly distributed in a finite space or to be located at a point. The solution is constructed by applying the Fourier transform with respect to spatial variable and the Laplace transform with respect to temporal variable. The integration over angular variable is treated exactly. The resulting solution, as a function of space and time and in the form of a double integral, is evaluated numerically without much difficulty. Tables and figures are given for the resulting benchmark solution.
Open systems evolution

A brief overview is provided of open systems from the first proprietary systems to the current client/server systems. Future directions are also considered. Evolution of information systems is motivated by two factors; technology and business needs. Business needs always inspire technology development and set the main directions. On the other hand technology also impacts business needs by distinguishing what would be nice to have and what is affordable. The evolution began with isolated systems. Typical users were large enterprises with hierarchical organization. Typical applications were developed to support this hierarchical organization and to manage operational processes like order fulfilment, stock management, etc. Several vendors had different solutions and many customers developed their own applications. As these systems were isolated from each other there was no need for interoperability. As computers started to become widely used new requirements arose. The authors consider the UNIX, OSF and POSIX operating systems.
Nucleotide sequences of rat cDNA clones coding heavy chain class I major histocompatibility complex proteins

Abstract The membrane-bound class I major histocompatibility complex (MHC) dimer is composed of a heavy chain (45-kd) that is noncovalently associated with a β 2 -microglobulin ( β 2 -m; 12-kd) light chain. 1 The heavy chain of the class I MHC dimer contains the membranedistal polymorphic α 1 (90 amino acids; AA) and α 2 (92 AA) domains, each of which forms an a-helix and four anti-parallel β-pleated strands. The α 2 domain is attached to a membrane-proximal α 3 (92 AA) domain, which is less polymorphic, and followed by the conserved transmembrane (25 AA) and cytoplasmic (30 AA) domains. The α 1 and α 2 domains of the rat class I MHC RT1.A a molecule bear highly polymorphic sequences which are immunogenic and induce allograft rejection. Two peptides were derived from the helical regions of the rat class I MHC RT1A a sequence. One peptide was localized in the a, helical region (56–72 AA and 72–83 AA), and one was localized in the α 2 helical region (145–155 AA). Both peptides elicited the proliferative response of alloantigen-specific T cells. 2 Our studies showed that the α 1 helical region of the RT1.A 1 molecule contains a potent immunogenic epitope localized at AA positions 62, 63, 65, and 69. 3 To examine the localization of other immunogenic epitopes, we isolated and sequenced additional rat class I MHC cDNAs.
Cones in the retina of the Lemon Shark (Negaprion brevirostris)

Abstract Sections of the retinae from six Lemon Sharks, Negaprion brevirostris, have been examined. These show that the Lemon Shark retina contains rods and cones, the former preponderating in the ratio of about 12:1.
Peak contrast enhancement in CT and MR angiography: when does it occur and why? Pharmacokinetic study in a porcine model.

PURPOSE: To investigate pharmacokinetic and physiologic factors that determine the time to peak intravenous contrast medium enhancement in computed tomographic (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) angiography in the porcine midabdominal aorta. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Four pigs were imaged repeatedly in seven to eight sets: For each set, 20 dynamic CT scans were obtained at a fixed aortic level after intravenous injection of contrast medium. From a physiologically based compartment model, aortic contrast enhancement curves were generated by varying contrast medium injection duration from 1 to 40 seconds. Contrast enhancement curves and times to peak aortic enhancement from the experiment and model were compared. Time to peak aortic enhancement obtained from the injection with the shortest duration was considered the time to peak test bolus contrast enhancement. Mathematic and pharmacokinetic analyses were performed to investigate factors that determine peak enhancement. RESULTS: Empiric and compartmental model ...
Hypoxia markers in human osteosarcoma: an exploratory study.

Neoplastic cells growing under hypoxic conditions exhibit a more aggressive phenotype by activating a cascade of molecular events partly mediated by hypoxia-inducible transcription factor (HIF-1α) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The roles of these markers have been studied previously in several cancer lines. We ascertained the frequency of HIF-1α expression, VEGF expression, the degree of neovascularization, and cell proliferation in osteosarcoma samples. Samples from osteosarcoma patients were assessed for HIF-1α and VEGF protein expression using immunohistochemistry, neovascularization using antibodies for Factor VIII, and cell proliferation using the Ki-67 labeling index. Associations between these parameters and clinical features were examined. HIF-1α staining was positive in 35% of patients and metastases were present in 61% of these HIF-1α-positive patients. VEGF protein expression was detected in 69% of patients, 92% of whom were female. We observed an insignificant trend for a higher frequency of VEGF expression in the high-grade as compared to low-grade osteosarcoma. We observed no association between vascular density and proliferation index and any clinical parameters. We found an association between HIF-1α expression and metastatic disease and between VEGF expression and female gender.
An overview of outcome on frigidity: Treatment effects and effectiveness

Abstract With the increasing acceptance of behavior therapy and Masters and Johnson's 1 extensively publicized short-term treatment, there has been a major increase of interest in the treatment of sexual dysfunctions. This paper reviews outcome reports of "frigidity" under varying treatment approaches with the hope of assessing the present status of outcome research, determining which therapeutic modalities seem most effective, and which lines of investigations appear most promising. Case reports, as well as uncontrolled (Table 1) and controlled (Table 2) studies, are presented. The monumental research of Masters and Johnson is reviewed separately.
Neural network multi-criteria optimization image reconstruction technique (NN-MOIRT) for linear and non-linear process tomography

In this work, an analog neural network is utilized to develop a new image reconstruction technique for the linear as well as the non-linear process tomography. The ultrasonic computed tomography (CT) and the electrical capacitance tomography (ECT) are chosen to represent the linear and the non-linear tomography. The image reconstruction technique is based on a multi-criteria optimization, namely neural network multi-criteria optimization image reconstruction technique (NN-MOIRT). The optimization technique utilizes multi-objective functions: (a) the negative entropy function, (b) the function of the least weighted square error of projection (integral) values between the measured data and the estimated projection data from the reconstructed image, and (c) a smoothness function that gives a relatively small peakedness in the reconstructed image. The optimization image reconstruction problem is then solved using the Hopfield model with dynamic neural-network computing. The technique has been tested using simulated and measured data; this technique has shown significant improvement in accuracy and consistency compared with other available techniques for both linear and non-linear tomography.
Plasma homocysteine in vascular disease and in nonvascular dementia of depressed elderly people

Depression among elderly people with reversible cognitive loss often manifests with concomitant vascular disease and can also precede the development of nonvascular degenerative dementia. Little is known about etiological factors for reversible or irreversible dementias in older depressed people. The amino acid homocysteine (HC), which is both a vascular disease risk factor and a precursor of the excitotoxic amino acids cysteine and homocysteic acid, could play a role in the pathophysiology of such individuals. Twenty-seven depressed elderly acute inpatients by DSM-III-R criteria had significantly higher plasma homocysteine levels and lower cognitive screening test scores than did 15 depressed young adult inpatients. HC was highest in the older patients who had concomitant vascular diseases (n= 14). HC was lowest in the older depressives who had neither vascular illnesses nor dementia (n= 8), comparable to the young adult depressives. Higher HC correlated significantly with poorer cognition only in the nonvascular geriatric patients (rs= -0.53). The findings extend earlier work showing higher HC in vascular patients from general medical populations, and also suggest a possible metabolic factor in certain dementias associated with late-life depression.
High flux dialysis membranes improve plasma lipoprotein profiles in patients with end-stage renal disease

A major cause of the morbidity and mortality of patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) is related to disorders of large blood vessels, especially coronary heart disease. Atherosclerosis, the most common form of this disease, is known to result from abnormalities in plasma lipoproteins, as well as from factors that damage the vessel wall. Two well-known risk factors for coronary heart disease are elevated plasma concentrations of LDL and reduced concentrations of HDL. This latter disorder is often accompanied by elevated triglycerides. Low HDL and elevated triglycerides are commonly associated with ESRD. Dialysis with high flux membranes differs from conventional dialysis in a number of ways. These include better biocompatibility and increased flux of larger molecules. Although several previous studies had suggested that dialysis with high flux membranes improves plasma lipoprotein profiles, a definitive cross-over designed study to assess the roles of high flux versus biocompatibility in altering lipoprotein profiles had not been done. Preliminary data from such a study are presented. These data confirm the beneficial effects of high flux membranes to reduce plasma triglycerides and suggest that this effect is primarily due to the high flux, and not the biocompatible, feature of the membranes.
Tropical Storm Agnes Pennsylvania's Torrey Canyon

This paper presents the "Agnes Story" disaster as related to the largest inland oil spill experienced in the history of U. S. and actions taken by EPA in coping with the problem. The inland rivers of the Middle Atlantic area experienced spills of petroleum products ranging from over 3 million gallons of No. 2 fuel oil, gasoline and kerosene from storage tanks in Big Flats/Elmira, N.Y. (just north of the Pennsylvania border) to 6 to 8 million gallons of black, highly metallic waste oil and sludge from an oil reclamation plant on the Schuykill River. Cleanup of the spilled oil in the midst of other rescue and restorative actions by Federal, state and municipal agencies was fraught with emergency response problems. Major spill effects and significant cleanup operations, problems encountered, and lessons learned are presented so that future responses can be better and more efficiently dealt with in an inland oil spill disaster. /DOT/