cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The motion of two spheres following each other in a viscous fluid

The purpose of this investigation was to determine the interaction effect of one spherical particle upon another when both are falling in a viscous fluid. The velocities of two identical spheres, falling along the axis of a cylinder in a direction parallel to their line of centers, were measured experimentally as a function of the center-to-center distance between them at very low Reynolds numbers. The experimental results compared very well with theoretical studies found in the literature which predicted that two spheres will fall faster than one sphere. At Reynolds numbers greater than 0.25 the influence of inertial effects were studied for one end two spheres. The experimental results qualitatively confirmed the Oseen equations. A definite attraction between two spheres falling one above the other was observed; the inertial forces acted to slow down the lower sphere without affecting the upper one.
Repression of Glutamate Dehydrogenase Formation in Klebsiella aerogenes Requires Two Binding Sites for the Nitrogen Assimilation Control Protein, NAC

In Klebsiella aerogenes, the gdhA gene codes for glutamate dehydrogenase, one of the enzymes responsible for assimilating ammonia into glutamate. Expression of a gdhAp-lacZ transcriptional fusion was strongly repressed by the nitrogen assimilation control protein, NAC. This strong repression (>50-fold under conditions of severe nitrogen limitation) required the presence of two separate NAC binding sites centered at -89 and +57 relative to the start of gdhA transcription. Mutants lacking either or both of these sites lost the strong repression. The distance between the two sites was less important than the face of the helix on which they lay. Insertion or deletion of 10 bp between the sites had little effect on the strong repression, but insertion of 5 bp or deletion of either 5 or 15 bp decreased the repression significantly. We propose that the strong repression of gdhAp-lacZ expression requires an interaction between the NAC molecules bound at the two sites. A weaker repression of gdhAp-lacZ expression (about threefold) required only the NAC site centered at -89. This weaker repression appears to result from NAC's ability to prevent the action of a positive effector the target of which overlaps the NAC binding site centered at -89. Point mutations and deletions of this region result in the same threefold reduction in gdhAp-lacZ expression as the presence of NAC at this site.
Concomitant adjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy for high risk breast cancer patients.

Thirty four patients treated with mastectomy and axillary node dissection for potentially curable breast cancer received a seven month combined adjuvant chemotherapy and radiation therapy program. These patients were considered to be at high risk for recurrence because they had either three or more positive axillary lymph nodes or their primary tumor was greater than 5 cm in diameter. The chemotherapy given at 3-week intervals consisted of cyclophosphamide, 600 mg/m2, Adriamycin 40mg/m2, and methotrexate 40 mg/m2 during cycles 1 through 3 and 7 through 9. Radiation therapy was administered during cycles 4 through 6 with concomitant administration of 5-fluorouracil 600 mg/m2, vincristine 1.4 mg/m2, and prednisone 40 mg/m2 for 7 days. Median follow up time from initiation of study is 60 months (range 36–93). Seventeen of 34 patients (50%) remain free of recurrent breast cancer. Distant metastases and local-regional recurrence have occurred in 16 (47%) and 4 (12%) patients, respectively. Significant myelosuppression and infections requiring hospitalization were seen in 4 patients, with 1 treatment-related death. Adriamycincontaining chemotherapy and post-operative radiotherapy can thus be combined in an adjuvant treatment program with acceptable toxicity.
Heat sinks with sloped plate fins in natural and forced convection

Abstract This is an experimental and numerical study of natural convection and forced convection air cooling of plate finned heat sinks. The study documents quantitatively two effects: (1) the orientation of the fin array relative to the gravitational field in natural convection, and relative to a free stream in forced convection, and (2) the tilting of the crests of the plate fins relative to the approaching flow. In each configuration, the results based on complete three-dimensional numerical simulations of the flow and heat transfer confirm the validity of the results determined based on direct measurements. For example, it is shown that the overall thermal conductance of the heat sink increases when the fin crests are inclined so that they face the approaching fluid. This augmentation effect increases as the coolant velocity increases. The thermal performance of arrays positioned perpendicularly to the flow is also documented.
Role of transforming growth factor-beta in growth and injury response of the pancreatic duct epithelium in vitro

Chronic pancreatitis is characterized by increased levels of expression of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta), particularly in and around the ducts. To examine the consequences of elevated exposure to TGF-beta on the pancreatic duct epithelium, we cultured segments of the main bovine pancreatic duct in the presence of increasing doses of TGF-beta. We also studied the effect of TGF-beta on epithelial injury, produced in this model by exposure to a bile acid. The extent of proliferation, migration, and epithelial damage was measured morphometrically on sections stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Proliferation and apoptosis were qualitatively determined by means of immunohistochemical analysis. In this model of duct cell culture, TGF-beta stimulated cell migration in areas of the explants where the native basement membrane of the duct epithelium was absent. In segments where the native basement membrane remained intact, proliferation was inhibited and apoptosis induced. When the explants were exposed to bile acid, extensive epithelial injury was observed. TGF-beta exposure at high doses (1 nmol/L protected epithelial integrity, but cellular morphology was altered and the process of apoptosis appeared to be increased. Our results suggest that increased periductal levels ot TGF-beta in the setting of pancreatic injury may be intended to promote repair of acute epithelial damage but may have detrimental long-term effects.
A versatile, source‐independent system for digital data management

A simple, easily used data management system for digital scientific data has been developed for scientists whose primary interest is data analysis rather than data management. This file system, herein called FLATDBMS, features standardized input/output (I/O) operations and nonhierarchical direct access self-documenting data files. The system is designed for scientists who interact with a variety of data sets when using FORTRAN programs. The design is particularly suited to searching for and selecting particular intervals of data, documenting data manipulations, and operating interactively with data. The cornerstone of the system is seven basic subroutines that perform the I/O operations in all applications programs. An interactive interface has been developed to allow easy viewing, selecting, and plotting of data stored in this format.
An iron catalyst for CVD of methane on carbon fibers

An iron catalyst, whose precursor form is magnetite (ferrofluid), is shown to increase the rate of carbon deposition from a methane/nitrogen atmosphere on PAN-based carbon fibers. A factorially designed set of experiments demonstrated that the type of ferrofluid catalyst was unimportant, and that dilution of the liquid-suspended catalyst lowered the deposition rate. Mass transfer effects were unimportant and the rate of deposition indicated that the deposition reaction was first-order with respect to methane concentration.
Inverse methods and kinetic models of hydrocarbon generation: III. Case histories for autoclave product analysis

From a determination of the transformation matrix for three pyrolysis product experimental data sets, an examination is given of both the applicability of the laboratory experimental data to the modeling of oil cracking in a sedimentary basin, and of the appropriateness of an inverse model. The results of the laboratory experimental data sets, which were done under different thermodynamic conditions and using different sources, show that the transformation matrix varies over each data set and also with time. Therefore, it is necessary to check the data sets before applying them to a basin for hydrocarbon modeling. The laboratory experimental data taken at lower temperature and over longer times appear more pertinent for the construction of an oil-cracking kinetic model suitable for geologic conditions.
Unexpected Substituent Effects in Face-to-Face π-Stacking Interactions

State-of-the-art electronic structure methods have been applied to obtain the first high-quality theoretical results for substituent effects in π-stacking interactions. The sandwich configurations of benzene dimer, benzene−phenol, benzene−toluene, benzene−fluorobenzene, and benzene−benzonitrile have been studied using correlation consistent basis sets augmented by multiple diffuse functions, namely aug-cc-pVDZ and aug-cc-pVTZ, at the second-order perturbation theory (MP2) level. Coupled-cluster computations with perturbative triples [CCSD(T)] were performed and combined with the above MP2 calculations to estimate the CCSD(T)/aug-cc-pVTZ binding energies, which should be accurate within several tenths of a kcal mol-1. All substituted dimers bind more strongly than benzene dimer, with benzene−benzonitrile binding the most strongly. Both electrostatic and dispersion interactions contribute to the increased binding of the monosubstituted dimers.
A Bayesian prediction of four-look recognition performance from one-look data: II

In a recent paper, four-look recognition performance was predicted from one-look (lL) data by Bayes’s theorem, with the entire pattern of two Ss’ four-look data being predicted reasonably well. In the present study, three Ss were run, with the addition that feedback was given and confidence judgments were required. Their task was to identify tachistoscopically presented graphemes A, T, or U. Predictions of four-look performance were made using three orders of lL data matrices, differing in the breakdown of confidence categories. The three matrices led to reasonably accurate predictions. Predictions varied somewhat in accuracy, depending on the order of the lL matrix. The possibility that the variation in predictive accuracy reflected the capacity of an S to combine information received from each observation was discussed. The capacity question is presently under investigation by the authors.
Exposure of Salmonella Enteritidis to chlorine or food preservatives increases susceptibility to antibiotics

Mutants of Salmonella Enteritidis selected following exposure to the sanitizer chlorine or to the preservatives sodium nitrite, sodium benzoate or acetic acid show resistance to multiple antibiotics (tetracycline, chloramphenicol, nalidixic acid, and ciprofloxacin). Complementation experiments with a functional marR restored antibiotic susceptibility of selected mutants to levels similar to wild-type strains, suggesting that mar mutation was responsible for resistance. The multiple antibiotic resistance (mar) operon is a global regulator controlling intrinsic resistance towards structurally and functionally unrelated antibiotics and other noxious agents. Mutants selected after exposure to an inducing agent maintained elevated antibiotic resistance after serial subculture in media void of the inducing agent. Results highlight the importance of monitoring the use of antimicrobial agents to ensure that concentrations capable of inactivating target pathogens are used.
Public Praxis: A Vision for Critical Information Literacy in Public Libraries

Public libraries in the United States have a radical opportunity to incorporate information literacy into their service missions. This article explores the reasons why public libraries are not addressing information literacy and engages the educational theories of John Dewey, Paolo Freire, and New Literacy studies to argue that critical information literacy in public libraries is essential to the vitality of democratic societies. In order to deliver these services to their communities, public libraries must provide not only the technologies and instruction for information literacy, but also the impetus for action—what Freire called “praxis.”
Gill Na+,K+-ATPase activity in largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) from three reservoirs with different levels of mercury contamination

Abstract Exposure to high concentrations of dissolved mercury (Hg) causes gill pathologies and interferes with ion and osmoregulation in fish. Although the gill ion-exchange enzyme Na+,K+-ATPase is inhibited by Hg in laboratory experiments, the concentrations that produce such effects are much higher than normally found in natural waters. However, Stagg et al. (1992, Mar. Environ. Res., 33: 255–266) found a significant correlation between gill Na+,K+-ATPase activity and muscle Hg concentrations in flounder (Platicthyes flesus) collected at polluted and clean sites in estuaries, suggesting that exposure to environmentally realistic Hg levels may affect ion regulation in estuarine fish. We tested for a similar relationship in a freshwater species, largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). Liver, muscle, and gill Hg concentrations differed significantly among bass from three reservoirs with similar water chemistry but different levels of Hg contamination. However, mean gill Na+,K+-ATPase activity did not vary among the reservoirs. For individual fish, gill Na+,K+-ATPase activity was not related to liver, muscle, or gill Hg concentration. Liver and muscle Hg concentrations were related to fish size, but gill Na+,K+-ATPase activity did not vary with fish size or sex. Gill Hg levels were not related to fish size. Exposure of gill homogenates to 0–10 μmol Hg 1−1 demonstrated that Na+,K+-ATPase can be inhibited by Hg in vitro, and 50% inhibition (IC50) occurred at 0.5 μmol Hg 1−1 Although our results support the idea that Hg can interfere with Na+,K+-ATPase activity, we were unable to detect an association between environmental exposure and gill Na+,K+-ATPase activity in wild freshwater fish.
Consultancies: A Model for Interdisciplinary Training and Mentoring of Junior Faculty Investigators

AbstractThe study of complex, health-related problems is often best addressed by interdisciplinary teams, and yet models for training and mentoring junior investigators in an interdisciplinary mode are not widely available. Here, the authors describe their school's version of the consultancy process
Universal fluctuation effects in chaotic quantum dots

Abstract We show that quantum dots with classically chaotic dynamics exhibit universal quantum fluctuation effects in a number of physical properties. Specifically, the distribution of Coulomb blockade resonance amplitudes and the correlation function of the quantum dot energy levels with shape distortion have universal forms which are shown to agree well with numerical results from a billiard model of quantum dots. These universal statistical properties are experimentally accessible through transport and capacitance measurements of single dots; a clear experimental signature may be obtained by their sensitivity to a weak magnetic field. Integrablc models for quantum dots are found to have non-universal statistical properties.
Hematopoietic SCT from partially HLA-mismatched (HLA-haploidentical) related donors

Hematopoietic SCT from a partially HLA-mismatched (HLA-haploidentical) first-degree relative offers the benefits of rapid and near universal donor availability but also the risks that result from traversing the HLA barrier; namely, graft failure, severe GVHD and prolonged immunodeficiency. Improvements over the last 10 years in conditioning regimens, graft engineering and pharmacological immunoprophylaxis of GVHD have substantially reduced the morbidity and mortality of HLA-haploidentical SCT. Highly immunosuppressive but nonmyeloablative conditioning extends the availability of HLA-haploidentical SCT to elderly hematologic malignancy patients lacking HLA-matched donors and permits recovery of autologous hematopoiesis in the event of graft failure. Current regimens for HLA-haploidentical SCT are associated with a 2-year non-relapse mortality of 20±5%, relapse of 35±15% and overall survival of 50±20%. Major developmental areas include harnessing natural killer cell alloreactivity to reduce the risk of disease relapse and improving immune reconstitution by delayed infusions of lymphocytes selectively depleted of alloreactive cells. Hematologic malignancy patients who lack suitably matched related or unrelated donors can now be treated with HLA-haploidentical related donor or unrelated umbilical cord blood SCT. Future clinical trials will assess the relative risks and benefits of these two graft sources.
Work-related psychosocial stress and glycemic control among working adults with diabetes mellitus.

Abstract Objective To examine the association between glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and four subscales of work-related psychosocial stress at study baseline and over time. Materials and methods We used survey data from a major HMO located in the Southeastern part of the US on health and healthy behaviors linked with patients’ clinical, pharmacy and laboratory records for the period between 2005 and 2009. Study participants ( n = 537) consisted of working adults aged 25–59 years, diagnosed with diabetes mellitus (DM) but without advanced micro or macrovascular complications at the time of the survey. We estimated the baseline (2005) association between HbA1c and work-related psychosocial stress and their interactions using linear regression analysis. Using individual growth model approach, we estimated the association between HbA1c over time and work-related psychosocial stress. Each of the models controlled for socio-demographic variables, diet and physical activity factor, laboratory factor, physical examinations variables and medication use in a hierarchical fashion. Results After adjusting for all study covariates, we did not find a significant association between work-related psychosocial stress and glycemic control either at baseline or over time. Conclusion Among fairly healthy middle aged working adults with DM, work-related psychosocial stress was not directly associated with glycemic control.
Dynamic continuous and non-continuous advance reservation in SLICE networks

Today, large amounts of data, growing from terabytes to petabytes, need to be transferred across the globe in a timely manner. To accommodate this efficiently, network operators are augmenting their networks to 100 Gbps links and beyond. The spectrum-sliced elastic optical path network (SLICE) architecture enables accommodation of variable-rate data traffic in a highly spectrum-efficient manner. The blocking in SLICE networks observed in literature is much lower than on traditional fixed grid WDM networks. Still, the current routing and spectrum allocation (RSA) algorithms have potential for blocking performance improvements. To increase the spectral efficiency, we introduce a concept called routing, spectrum, and segment allocation (RSSA). We propose several novel continuous and non-continuous time heuristics based on the concept of RSSA. We consider dynamic advance reservation traffic requests over SLICE networks and evaluate the performance of the proposed RSSA heuristics. Through extensive simulations, we observe that our continuous-time, non-contiguous spectrum RSSA heuristics outperform existing heuristics in terms of both blocking probability and spectral utilization.
Making 3D binary digital images well-composed

A 3D binary digital image is said to be well-composed if and only if the set of points in the faces shared by the voxels of foreground and background points of the image is a 2D manifold. Well-composed images enjoy important topological and geometric properties; in particular, there is only one type of connected component in any well-composed image, as 6-, 14-, 18-, and 26-connected components are equal. This implies that several algorithms used in computer vision, computer graphics, and image processing become simpler. For example, thinning algorithms do not suffer from the irreducible thickness problem if the image is well-composed, and the extraction of isosurfaces from well-composed images using the Marching Cubes (MC) algorithm or some of its enhanced variations can be simplified, as only six out of the fourteen canonical cases of cube-isosurface intersection can occur. In this paper, we introduce a new randomized algorithm for making 3D binary digital images that are not well-composed into well-composed ones. We also analyze the complexity and convergence of our algorithm, and present experimental evidence of its effectiveness when faced with practical medical imaging data.© (2005) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Advances in Thin Film Sensor Technologies for Engine Applications

Advanced thin film sensor techniques that can provide accurate surface strain and temperature measurements are being developed at NASA Lewis Research Center. These sensors are needed to provide minimally intrusive characterization of advanced materials (such as ceramics and composites) and structures (such as components for Space Shuttle Main Engine, High Speed Civil Transport, Advanced Subsonic Transports and General Aviation Aircraft) in hostile, high-temperature environments, and for validation of design codes. This paper presents two advanced thin film sensor technologies: strain gauges and thermocouples. These sensors are sputter deposited directly onto the test articles and are only a few micrometers thick; the surface of the test article is not structurally altered and there is minimal disturbance of the gas flow over the surface. The strain gauges are palladium-13% chromium based and the thermocouples are platinum-13% rhodium vs. platinum. The fabrication techniques of these thin film sensors in a class 1000 cleanroom at the NASA Lewis Research Center are described. Their demonstration on a variety of engine materials, including superalloys, ceramics and advanced ceramic matrix composites, in several hostile, high-temperature test environments are discussed.Copyright © 1997 by ASME
APPROXIMATE QUEUEING NETWORK MODELS FOR CLOSED FABRICATION/ASSEMBLY SYSTEMS. PART I: SINGLE LEVEL SYSTEMS

We address the issue of performance analysis of fabrication/assembly (F/A) systems, which are systems that first fabricate components and then join the components and subassemblies into a product. Here we consider an F/A system consisting of a single assembly station with input from K fabrication stations. We assume that the system uses a Kanban control mechanism with a fixed number of kanbans circulating between each input station and the assembly station. Even with Markovian assumptions, computing an exact solution for the performance evaluation of such systems becomes intractable due to an explosion in the state-space. We develop computationally efficient algorithms to approximate the throughput and mean queue lengths. The accuracy of the approximations is studied by comparison to exact results (K = 2) and to simulations (K > 2). Part II of this paper demonstrates how these models can be used as building blocks to evaluate more complex F/A systems with multiple levels of assembly stations.
Collective enhancement of precision in networks of coupled oscillators

Abstract We analyze conditions under which the precision of coupled oscillators can be improved by synchronization. The improvement in precision, defined as the inverse of the coefficient of variation of the periods, depends on how noise is added to the system. If the magnitude of noise experienced by an oscillator only depends on the state of that oscillator, then the precision of the group rhythm can be improved to N times the precision of an individual uncoupled oscillator, irrespective of the form of the coupling function. However, if the magnitude of the noise also depends on the state of other oscillators, as might be the case for noise caused by synaptic input to neurons, then synchronization may lead to an additional improvement. This collective enhancement of precision is demonstrated both with a simple phase model and a network of integrate-and-fire neurons.
Tektites as a Guide to the Structure of the Moon

Abstract Experience shows that morphological data by itself does not give decisive answers to the question of the mode of formation of the surface of the moon. Some chemical information is needed. If tektites are from the moon, they furnish that information. Tektites are the result of impact on some surface, because they contain nickel-iron spherules and coesite. The surface was probably not the surface of the earth because the same tektites that contain coesite consist largely of glass, and the glassmaking process is inconsistent with the survival of coesite. Hence the material was glass before the impact, but highly siliceous glasses with low water content of this kind are not found on the earth. Tektites do not come from interplanetary space because their distribution over the earth is explicable only if we suppose them to be fragments of orbiting bodies. They are, therefore, probably lunar. Accepting the Muong Nong tektites as essentially fragments of the lunar crust, we find a certain resemblance to terrestrial ash-flow tuffs. This resemblance is borne out by their dryness and by the following consideration: Tektites have been differentiated relatively late in the history of the solar system. If they are lunar, we would expect that they came from the maria. The maria are flat; if composed of acid rock we would expect that they were ash flows. The Ranger photographs support this view because they contain evidence of differential compaction. They also contain evidence of recent acid volcanism. Comparison of the Ranger photographs with the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes supports the analysis which we have made here.
910-22 Mitral Regurgitation (not Restenosis) is the Most Frequent Indication for Valve Replacement After Balloon Mitral Valvotomy

The indications for mitral valve replacement (MVR) after balloon mitral valvotomy (BMV) remain poorly characterized. Restenosis has been the focus of most concerns regarding the long-term need for re-BMV or MVR. We reviewed the indications for MVR after BMV in 770 patients during 3 years. Indication for MVR: l 30 days (n = 34) g 30 days (n = 47) Restenosis 0 15% CHF 0 30% Failed BMW 15% 9% MR 85% 46% MVR was necessary in 4.5% within 30 days of BMV The indication for MVR was mitral regurgitation (MR) in 3.8% and failed BMV in 0.7%. Late MVR (more than 30 days post BMV) was done in an additional 6.1%. MVR was most frequently necessary for increasing MR or symptoms due to mixed or multiple valve lesions (p l 0.001). Restenosis (loss of half the initial gain in mitral area) accounted for only 15% of the indications for MVR. Conclusion Restenosis is an infrequent indication for MVR after BMV. Other factors including initially insufficient enlargement of the mitral orifice, persistent symptoms, and progression of post-BMV MR are the major indications for MVR after balloon mitral valvotomy.
Early outcomes of the intraluminal flow guard device for secondary renal access.

Purpose The Flixene Intraluminal Flow Guard (IFG) is a novel arteriovenous graft for use in complex renal access patients. The IFG is a PTFE graft with a covered nitinol stent at the venous end implanted into the axillary vein rather than anastomosed. The purported benefits are improved hemodynamic flow in the vein with reduced neointimal hyperplasia. Our primary aim was to assess its early patency and complications. Our center is the first to publish early outcomes. Methods All patients on whom we would have otherwise performed a standard brachial-axillary graft from April to November 2011 were instead given an IFG graft if they were suitable and consented. The only exclusion criteria was an axillary vein size under 5.5 mm as this would not accommodate the intraluminal stent graft. Data were collected prospectively and follow-up was identical to our usual graft surveillance. Results A total of 12 patients (mean age 64, mean follow-up 393 days) had IFG grafts implanted during the study period. There were no exclusions and all patients consented. All patients were having secondary access following previous failed fistulae or grafts and no patient had an autogenous hemodialysis option. On average each patient had already had 1.1 previous ipsilateral access procedures. Mean operating time was 109 minutes. Functional patency at one year was 65.6%, with a mean functional patency of 162 days. There was only one early complication (wound hematoma) and one graft infection requiring explantation. Conclusions The IFG device provides an alternative to standard brachial-axillary grafts and brings similar early patency and complication profile. Continued monitoring of outcomes, however, is required to determine long-term results.
Multi-technique comparison of immobilized and hybridized oligonucleotide surface density on commercial amine-reactive microarray slides.

To establish a quantitative, corroborative understanding of observed correlations between immobilized probe DNA density on microarray surfaces and target hybridization efficiency in biological samp...
Gamma-ray production cross section from energetic neutron inelastic scattering for methodical improvements in planetary gamma-ray spectroscopy

Planetary gamma-ray spectroscopy can be used to chemically analyze the top soil from planets in future planetary missions. The production from inelastic neutron interaction plays an effective role in the determination on the C and H at the surface. The gamma-ray production cross section from the strongest lines excited in the neutron bombardment of Fe have been measured by the use of a time analyzed quasi-mono-energetic neutron beam and a high purity germanium detector. The results from En=6.5, 32, 43, and 65 MeV are presented.
Hip arthroscopy: is it a labrum of love?: Commentary on an article by Geoffrey Wilkin, MD, et al.: "Arthroscopic acetabular labral debridement in patients forty-five years of age or older has minimal benefit for pain and function".

Knee arthroscopic techniques provide a superior avenue for preservation of the meniscus when there is an acute vertical circumferential tear in the “red zone.” Degenerative tears are usually horizontal and may result in impinging flaps; they typically occur in older individuals and can bring about mechanical symptoms. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons was “unable to recommend for or against arthroscopic partial meniscectomy in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee with a torn meniscus.”1 Similar to the situation involving the knee meniscus, there are two types of labral tears in the hip, traumatic and degenerative. The traumatic tears tend to occur in a younger, highly active population including professional athletes and military personnel. Many labral tears are associated with an acetabular cam or pincer deformity. Repairs are performed by shaving the reattachment site to bleeding bone2. Short-term improvement has been well documented, but the long-term preventative effect of labral repair is unknown3. Unlike knee meniscal tears, the distinction between acute labral tears and degeneration is not as reliable4. The outcome of …
In vitro amino acid incorporation by the post-mitochondrial supernatant from rat liver

Abstract Interest in the use of the post-mitochondrial supernatant (PM-supernatant) for the study of in vitro amino acid incorporation arose from experiments indicating that the ribosomal aggregation of the PM-supernatant system more nearly represented that of the intact cell than did other ribosomal preparations. The PM-supernatant system was found to be 25 or 50 % more active than the microsomal and ribosomal amino acid incorporation systems. For PM-supernatant in vitro incorporation of l -[ 14 C]valine into acid insoluble material, ATP, GTP, an energy generating system, Mg 2+ , K + , and a mixture of l -amino acids were necessary. Sephadex G-25 column chromatography of the PM-supernatant, pH 7.4, and presence of glutathione during homogenization of the tissue were necessary for optimal PM-supernatant in vitro incorporation. Under these conditions the rate of l -valine incorporation by the PM-supernatant from 0.17 to 0.20 nmoles/min per mg RNA for a liver from a fed rat. Fasting (20 h) prior to sacrifice, resulted in a 30–40 % decrease in amino acid incorporation by the PM-supernatant as well as a decrease in ribosomal aggregation. The decrease in PM-supernatant incorporation by fasting was found to be associated with both polysomal and cell sap factors.
Glucocorticoid-mediated Repression of NFκB Activity in Endothelial Cells Does Not Involve Induction of IκBα Synthesis

Abstract Repression of NFκB-dependent gene expression is one of the major elements of immunosuppression by glucocorticoids. Protein-protein interactions between the glucocorticoid receptor and NFκB have been characterized and shown to be a possible mechanism of mutual inhibition of transactivation properties. More recently, glucocorticoid-mediated induction of IκBα, an inhibitor of NFκB, has been described in monocytes and lymphocytes; an increase in IκBα mRNA and protein resulted in inactivation and cytosolic retention of NFκB. Thus, rather than the physical interaction between the glucocorticoid receptor and NFκB, the up-regulation of IκBα was presented as the key element in immunosuppression by glucocorticoids. In contrast, we show that the IκBα pathway is not involved in glucocorticoid-mediated inhibition of NFκB activity in endothelial cells. Although transcriptional activation by NFκB was significantly reduced in the presence of glucocorticoids, we did not detect induction of IκBα protein that could prevent nuclear translocation of NFκB upon stimulation with lipopolysaccharide or tumor necrosis factor α. Furthermore, treatment with glucocorticoids did not seem to affect the transcription rate or mRNA stability of IκBα. We therefore conclude that, although induction of IκBα expression by glucocorticoids seems to be of importance in monocytes and lymphocytes, it cannot explain inhibition of NFκB-dependent gene expression in endothelial cells. Our results emphasize the relevance of physical interaction between the glucocorticoid receptor and NFκB in endothelial cells and thus in suppression of inflammation by glucocorticoids.
The Resurgence of Tuberculosis in the United States: Societal Origins and Societal Responses

Planning of effective responses to the recent resurgence of tuberculosis in the United States, and particularly in New York City, requires review of our knowledge of (1) the factors that led to the decline of tuberculosis in the U.S. and other countries during the nineteenth and the first three-quarters of the twentieth century, and (2) the recent changes in these same factors and the rise of new factors that have contributed to its resurgence. Because the analysis of the impact of all of these factors in both the remote and the recent past is controversial, it is important to use a well-defined framework to organize the analysis. The framework we will use is shown in Table 1. To the classic epidemiologic triad of Agent, Host and Environment it adds the category of Health Services. In this paper we redefine both the classic and new categories using current disciplines and concepts applicable to tuberculosis.
MEMBRANE-BOUND PROTEASES OF THE GERBIL SUBFORNICAL ORGAN AND CHOROID PLEXUS : AN ENZYME HISTOCHEMICAL STUDY

Using enzyme-histochemical methods, the membrane-bound peptidases, gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (gamma-GTP), microsomal alanyl aminopeptidase (mAAP), glutamyl aminopeptidase (EAP), and dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP IV), were studied in microvessels of the gerbil subfornical organ (SFO), choroid plexus adjacent to the SFO, and the ependyma of brain ventricle walls in the vicinity of the SFO. Vessels and microvessels of gerbil SFO and choroid plexus were positive for gamma-GTP, mAAP, and EAP, but negative for DPP IV. Blood-brain barrier (BBB) microvessels in the surrounding brain tissue also showed positive reactions for gamma-GTP, mAAP, and EAP but a negative reaction for DPP IV. Both epithelial cells of the choroid plexus and ependymal cells of the ventricle walls were negative for all four studied enzymes. It is suggested that blood-borne peptide hormones which can be substrates for these membrane-bound proteases can be modulated by gamma-GTP, mAAP, and EAP, but not by DPP IV, when they come in contact with the plasma membrane of the endothelial cells of the vessels in gerbil SFO, choroid plexus, and surrounding brain tissue.
Hedgehog Pathway Inhibitors: Potential Applications in Breast Cancer

The Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway is a developmental pathway with important roles in embryogenesis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, stem/progenitor cell renewal, and tissue regeneration and repair. Dysregulated Hh signaling is implicated in 25% of human cancers, including breast cancer. Mutations within elements of the Hh signaling pathway leading to ligand-independent activation do not appear to be widespread in breast cancer. However, overexpression of the Hh ligand and Hh target genes has been reported in breast cancer, suggesting a ligand-dependent mechanism for Hh pathway activation in breast carcinogenesis. Small molecule antagonists of the Hh pathway are under clinical development and may present novel therapeutic options for breast cancer.
Microbial Responses to Environmentally Toxic Cadmium.

We analyzed the soil microbial communities from one uncontaminated and two metal-impacted soils and found that while cadmium adversely affected the numbers of culturable bacteria in all soils, cadmium-resistant isolates were found from each of the soils. With exposure to 24 and 48 μg ml-1 soluble cadmium, the metal-contaminated soil communities were more resistant than the uncontaminated soil community. In addition, in one metal-stressed soil, the resistant population became more resistant with increased cadmium levels. Ribosomal 16S DNA sequencing identified the isolates as Arthrobacter, Bacillus, or Pseudomonas spp. Further characterization demonstrated that two of the isolates were highly resistant to soluble cadmium with maximum resistance at 275 μg ml-1 cadmium. These isolates were also resistant to a variety of antibiotics, namely ampicillin, gentamicin, penicillin, and streptomycin, but no overall correlation was found between enhanced antibiotic resistance and cadmium resistance. One Pseudomonas isolate H1 did become more resistant with increasing cadmium levels, suggesting a different resistance mechanism at high cadmium concentrations.
Enriching students' smart grid experience using programmable devices

The idea of a “smart grid” has taken center stage- an evolution of advanced technologies that make the availability of a smarter, more efficient electrical power grid possible. At the heart of these advanced devices for the smart grid lies the powerful technology of programmable devices, such as Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGA) and SoC (System on Chip). Improving the design component, while integrating social aspects of engineering in the undergraduate engineering education, is a concern for educators, industrial employers and agencies concerned with national productivity and competitiveness. Students' design component at all levels is increasingly focused on renewable energy sources and smart grid due to the increased emphasis in the U.S. on clean energy innovation, generation, and commercialization. This paper presents the current and future efforts in the Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology Department at Farmingdale State College to attract students to develop Smart Grid related projects using programmable devices, as part of their student research experience, senior projects, and/or participation in national competitions. These projects will be used in summer camps for middle and high school students and teachers. In addition the departmental open houses and other college open forums are always utilized to display student research projects as a way of raising public awareness regarding renewable and sustainable energies.
Extraction of tetrabutylammonium tetrachloroaurate(III)into chloroform solution of tetrabutylammonium perchlorate and spectrophotometric determination

Abstract The distribution equilibrium: AuCl4-+(Bu4N+, ClO4-)HCCl3 ⇌ (Bu4N+, AuCl4-)HCCl3+C1O4-, has been examined. With acidic aqueous chloride solutions in which -log ([H+] [Cl-]) 1 2 is greater than 2, the apparent equilibrium constant, KA, is a constant equal to the equilibrium constant of the distribution reaction above; a value of 2.88·103 was obtained. Combination of the extraction with a direct spectrophotometric determination of AuCl4- in chloroform at 312 nm provides a simple, rapid, and accurate analytical method for the separation and determining of gold in the μg-range.
Impact of hygrothermal aging on the dynamic mechanical properties of Sheet Molding Compound

Sheet Molding Compound, (SMC), is a composite material comprised of an unsaturated crosslinked polymer, reinforcing fiber such as glass, thermoplastic processing aids, mineral fillers, and lubricant (release agent). Mechanical properties for service requirements are developed through fiber reinforcements randomly aligned in between two polymer sheets. Service requirements for the SMC material are necessary for specified amounts of time. For example, SMC used for automotive parts have upwards of a 10 year service life; therefore, the study of how the SMC material changes with time and environmental exposure is of interest. In the current study, hygrothermal aging is used to accelerate normal environmental aging and dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA) is used to study the mechanical and chemical changes as a function of temperature and aging time. Results from the current study show through high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis that poly(vinyl acetate) (PVAc) does not chemically react with water in the SMC material and DMTA data show that water has two roles in the thickening reaction in the SMC between MgO and carboxylic acid functional groups adding an additional step to what has been previously reported.
Unveiling learners’ attention during language processing: the case of epistemic meanings of a modal verb

In an analysis of learners’ reflections taken in real time, this study attempts to unveil what learners attend to during a task session. A total of 110 Japanese learners of English noted rationales for their form selections of epistemic modal verbs. The data were then coded and tallied to enable quantitative analysis and to examine the association of individual rationales with the accuracy of the selected forms. In-depth analyses of representative reflections are also presented in a qualitative inquiry. Among the total counts of some 1400 reflections, a number of patterns emerged, including textual-meaning-oriented rationales, meta-linguistic terminology use, and modal-meaning-oriented rationales. A combination of qualitative and quantitative analyses of each category of rationales indicated highly significant results for some and insignificant results for others. Overall outcomes indicate that when learners’ attention is oriented to the form–meaning connection in context, learners become successful in co...
Cis and trans mRNA splicing in C. elegans.

Abstract Nematodes are the only organisms in which both cis - and trans -splicing of nuclear mRNAs are known to occur. Despite some unusual characteristics of introns in C. elegans , the nematode splicing machinery is quite similar to that described in other organisms. Nematodes contain a novel snRNP, the PNA moiety of which donates its 5′ end to many different transcripts by trans -splicing.
Mental retardation associated with an unusual amino acid excretion pattern.

A patient presenting with progressive mental and physical deterioration, convulsions and hypotonia was found to have increased urinary alanine and glycine. Arylsulfatase A activities in brain, liver, and kidney were one-half to one-fourth normal. Both acid phosphatase and beta-glucuronidase activities were increased. Cholesterol sulfate and two unidentified lipids were present in elevated quantities in brain, liver, and kidney. Froth parents and the patient's only sibling were clinically normal and exhibited normal urinary amino acid excretion profiles. Glycine loading was unsuccessful in eliciting abnormal responses in the parents' excretion patterns. Both parents had normal levels of leukocyte beta-glucuronidase and arylsulfatase A.
An acculturation scale for Southeast Asians.

This article reports the development of an acculturation scale for Southeast Asian immigrants. From factor analyses of responses on 13 items obtained from samples of three different Southeast Asian ethnic groups, i.e., Cambodians, Laotians, and Vietnamese, two subscales were derived: (1) proficiency in languages (land of origin versus English), and (2) language, social and food (LSF) preferences. Inter-item reliability of the scales was demonstrated for each of the three ethnic groups, with Cronbach alpha coefficients of 0.76 or above. Construct validity was also established within each of the three ethnic groups by demonstrating expected associations of the subscales with current age, years in the USA, total years of education, percentage of lifetime in the USA, and age on entering the USA. Multivariate analyses within each of the ethnic groups revealed that, once controlling for years of education, percentage of lifetime in the USA, and type of health care coverage, although not significant for the Cambodians (P = 0.08) males tended to show higher scores for the proficiency in language subscale in comparison to females. Similar multivariate analyses for the LSF preference subscale showed that although slightly higher for the males, the differences between the genders was not significant for the Cambodians (P = 0.78); both the Laotian (P = 0.23) and Vietnamese (P = 0.01) females showed higher scores in comparison to males although only just reaching significance for the Vietnamese.