cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparison of different modalities for detection of small fiber neuropathy.

Abstract Objectives : In general, large fiber sensory function is easier to assess than small fiber function both clinically and electrophysiologically. Therefore, small fiber sensory neuropathies are more difficult to diagnose. The relative sensitivities of different electrodiagnostic tests for small fiber neuropathy are not known. We sought to determine and compare the sensitivities of quantitative thermal sensory testing (QST), quantitative sudomotor axon reflex testing (QSART), and cardiovascular autonomic testing for diagnosis in patients with clinically suspected small fiber neuropathy. Methods : 15 adult patients with clinically suspected small fiber sensory neuropathy underwent neurologic examination, QST, and QSART. Twelve also underwent cardiovascular autonomic testing. Results : 80% had an abnormal neurologic examination consistent with small fiber neuropathy, while 93% had at least one abnormal quantitative test. QSART was most sensitive with 12 of 15 (80%) having abnormal studies while 10 of 15 (67%) had abnormal thermal thresholds by QST. Abnormal heart rate with deep breathing was detected in 9 of 12 (75%) patients. Conclusion : Of the modalities tested, QSART was most sensitive in confirming the clinical suspicion of a small fiber neuropathy. Autonomic cardiovascular abnormalities were also common in our patients. Clinical examination and QSART may be optimal for screening patients for small fiber neuropathy.
Selectively-Permeable Ultrathin Film Composite Membranes Based on Molecularly-Imprinted Polymers

Membrane-based chemical separations constitute an emerging research area and industrial technology. The objective is to develop membranes that selectively transport a particular target molecule and reject (or transport at much lower rates) other molecules that might be present in the feed solution. This paper describes a new approach for preparing highly selective composite membranes for pharmaceutical or biomedical separations. This approach entails photopolymerization of a “molecularly-imprinted polymer film” across the surface of a microporous support to form a new type of ultrathin film composite membrane. Composite membranes based on polymers that were imprinted on the bronchodilator theophylline were prepared. The rate and selectivity of theophylline transport across these ultrathin film composites were investigated.
Malignant lymphoma, diffuse mixed small and large cell. A clinicopathologic study of 47 cases

The clinical and pathologic features of 47 cases of malignant lymphoma, diffuse mixed small and large cell (diffuse mixed lymphoma) are described. Diffuse mixed lymphomas contained approximately equal numbers of small and large cells (30-70%) and comprised 6% of all non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. They occurred in middle-aged and elderly patients (median age = 63 years), showed a female predominance, and were clinically advanced at presentation. The majority of patients exhibited prominent extranodal disease, which frequently involved multiple unrelated sites and usually occurred in conjunction with nodal disease. A notable morphologic spectrum of lymphoma was seen within this series, including 20 cases of mixed small cleaved and large cell (with cleaved and noncleaved nuclei), eight cases of mixed small lymphocytic and large cell (transformed prolymphocytes and blast-like cells), and 12 cases of mixed small cell and large cell, "immunoblastic" lymphoma (with plasmacytoid, clear cell or hyperconvoluted features). There was no significant difference in response to treatment and survival between those cases with less than 50% large cells and those with greater than 50% large cells. The poorest treatment response appeared to be in patients with mixed small cell and large cell, "immunoblastic" lymphomas. Patients with diffuse mixed lymphoma appeared to show a favorable response to cyclphosphamide, Adriamycin, vincristine, and prednisone (CHOP) and an unfavorable response to other treatment modalities.
Abstract 2873: Elucidation of dietary omega-6/omega-3 ratio effects on chemopreventive activity using mammographic density as a surrogate marker in rats

Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC Although beneficial effects of omega-3 fatty acids in breast cancer prevention have been reported, the optimal dietary omega-6/omega-3 (n-6/n-3) ratio for chemoprevention has not been established. Although n-6 and n-3 fatty acids are essential for the normal development and maintenance of biological function, both classes of fatty acid share metabolizing enzymes and thus have the potential to antagonize each other's metabolism. Therefore, experiments were undertaken to elucidate the ratio(s) of dietary n-6/n-3 that is optimal for chemoprevention in the absence of adverse effects on normal development using mammographic density as a surrogate marker for breast cancer risk. Female Sprague Dawley rats (n=9/group, 32 days of age) were randomized to one of 7 dietary formulations that varied in their ratio of n-6/n-3 as follows: 25:1, 10:1, 5:1, 1:1, 1:5, 1:10, 1:25. The percent of dietary calories from fat was 30% across all 7 formulations. Mammary gland density was determined via digital analyses of abdominal-inguinal mammary gland whole mounts stained with alum carmine. Density was calculated using either area or integrated optical density and expressed as the percent of the mammary gland fat pad occupied by mammary epithelium. Mammographic density was unaffected in the high n-6 arm of the study; whereas, it was significantly reduced in the high omega-3 arm (16%, p<0.03). Efforts are ongoing to determine: 1) whether reduced density is accounted for by effects on cell cycle flux or induction of a pro-apoptotic environment, 2) the extent to which these effects are mediated by altered signaling via activated protein kinase B (Akt), and 3) the mechanism(s) by which the n-6/n-3 ratio alters eicosanoid-mediated bioactivity. Supported by grant KG081632 from the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2873.
Counterculture Kaleidoscope: Musical and Cultural Perspectives on Late Sixties San Francisco

Nadya, Zimmerman, Ann Arbor, MI: University of Michigan Press, 2008, ISBN: 978-0-472-1558-7, 230 pp, $26.95 (cloth) Nadya Zimmerman combines keen intellect with far-reaching scholarly research to g...
Distinct neural networks support the mere ownership effect under different motivational contexts

The “mere ownership effect” refers to individuals’ tendency to evaluate objects they own more favorably than comparable objects they do not own. There are numerous behavioral demonstrations of the mere ownership effect, but the neural mechanisms underlying the expression of this self-positivity bias during the evaluation of self-associated objects have not been identified. The present study aimed to identify the neurobiological expression of the mere ownership effect and to assess the potential influence of motivational context. During fMRI scanning, participants made evaluations of objects after ownership had been assigned under the presence or absence of self-esteem threat. In the absence of threat, the mere ownership effect was associated with brain regions implicated in processing personal/affective significance and valence (ventromedial prefrontal cortex [vMPFC], ventral anterior cingulate cortex [vACC], and medial orbitofrontal cortex [mOFC]). In contrast, in the presence of threat, the mere ownersh...
Volumetric descriptions from a single intensity image

Since the early days of computer vision research, shape from contour has been one of the most challenging problems. Many researchers in the field have attempted to understand this problem and proposed different approaches to solve it. Shape from contour still remains one of the hardest problems in the field. The problem has two major difficulties. First, 2D properties of contours of viewed objects are generally not sufficient by themselves to uniquely determine 3D shape, as one dimension is lost in the projection. Second, real images produce imperfect contours that make their interpretation particularly difficult. The first problem has received some attention in the research community but in the context of perfect contours. The second one, however, has received very little. In this work, we propose a promising methodology to address this last problem for a large class of objects: generalized cylinders. It is based on exploiting mathematical invariant properties of the contours of generalized cylinders in a perceptual grouping approach. We show that using these properties greatly helps addressing the figure-ground problem in a more rigorous way than previous (intuitive) perceptual grouping methods. Our approach exploits the interplay between local and global features by handling different levels of the feature hierarchy. We have developed and implemented a method that handles SHGCs in complex seenes with markings and occlusion. We demonstrate the application of our method of shape description and scene segmentation on complex real images. We also demonstrate the usage of the obtained descriptions for recovery of complete 3-D object centered descriptions of viewed objects from a single intensity image.
Investment and employment in manufacturing in U.S. metropolitan areas 1960–1976☆

Abstract This paper develops a simple vintage model of the relation between investment and employment in manufacturing. Parameters of the model are estimated using time series data for the US taken from the Surveys and Censuses of Manufactures conducted from 1954–1976. The results indicate that the age of the manufacturing capital stock was increasing in most major metropolitan areas during this period. Due to capital aging, the nature of technological change, and the pattern of depreciation, the amount of annual investment per worker required to sustain employment in manufacturing rose substantially. The dispersion of growth rates across areas also increased.
Cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase gene and its differentially terminated cDNAs from the white rot fungus Phanerochaete chrysosporium

The white rot fungus Phanerochaete chrysosporium metabolizes a range of xenobiotics via P450 mono-oxygenation, particularly under peroxidase-suppressing culture conditions. Here we report the cloning and analysis of the gene from this fungus for the cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase (CPR) and its differentially terminated cDNAs. Using a PCR-based approach with degenerate primers, a 285-bp genomic fragment was isolated from the two widely studied strains BKM-F 1767 and ME 446, and was identified as a CPR gene segment based on sequence comparison with the database. A clone containing the full-length CPR gene was isolated from a BKM-F 1767 genomic library using the PCR-generated segment as a probe, and the 3937-bp insert was sequenced by gene walking. Based on the detection of conserved CPR motifs, a coding region of 2381 bp was identified with a 991-bp segment 5' to the putative ATG start codon. Two cDNAs with differentially terminated transcripts were isolated and sequenced. Comparison of the gene and the cDNA sequences confirmed the presence of three introns (62 bp, 50 bp, and 58 bp). Sequence identity and a phylogenetic comparison of the deduced protein (736 aa) with other CPRs in the database suggested that P. chrysosporium CPR is the largest CPR known and is more closely related to animal (36-38%) and yeast (37-38%) CPRs than to plant CPRs (33-35%). The availability of this gene will facilitate further studies on understanding the potent xenobiotic mono-oxygenation systems in this model white rot fungus.
Real-time quantitative PCR of Epstein-Barr virus BZLF1 DNA using the LightCycler.

Abstract Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is associated with the development of lymphoproliferative disorders in the immunocompromised host and in particular post-transplant recipients. The development of a rapid real-time quantitative PCR for the detection of the immediate early gene BZLF1 is described using the Roche LightCycler. BZLF1 codes for the ZEBRA protein, one of the cascade of transactivation factors involved in the lytic life cycle of the virus. The assay is rapid and can detect a single copy of EBV DNA. Intra- and inter-assay variability studies using the external quantitative standards and DNA extracted from whole blood and plasma samples were shown to be within a 0.5 log10 range.
The effect of lysozyme on DNA—Membrane association in Escherichia coli

Abstract The chromosome of Escherichia coli sediments three different ways in sucrose density gradients, depending upon the concentration of lysozyme used to lyse the cells, as follows: 1. (1) Low-S complex. In the presence of 2–400 μg/ml of egg white lysozyme with Brij-58-Na deoxycholate or Triton X-100, the chromosome sediments at 500–1100 S (low-S complex). When Brij-58 alone is used, some of the DNA sediments as a low-S complex and some sediments rapidly with the membrane fraction. 2. (2) Secondary DNA—membrane complex. In the presence of 800 μg/ml of egg white lysozyme, all the DNA sediments with the membrane fraction at greater than 4000 S regardless of which detergent is used. This DNA—membrane complex is due to the high concentration of lysozyme, for when a pre-formed low-S complex is exposed to a high concentration of lysozyme, it sediments with the membrane fraction. This association can also be seen in the presence of poly( l -lysine), ribonuclease, Mg2+ or spermidine, indicating that lysozyme mediates the DNA—membrane association non-specifically as a polycation. An artificial association between exogenous coalfish DNA and an E. coli membrane fraction is induced by 800 μg/ml of lysozyme. 3. (3) Primary DNA—membrane complex. A concentration of T4 lysozyme as low as 0.01 μg/ml, or 20 lysozyme molecules/chromosome, can lyse cells. This is in contrast to 2 · 106 lysozyme molecules/chromosome corresponding to 800 μg/ml of egg white lysozyme. Under these mild lysis conditions, the chromosome sediments with the membrane fraction, suggesting a primary DNA—membrane association.
DOPA and tyrosine decarboxylation in the cockroach Leucophaea maderae in relation to cuticle formation and ecdysis

Abstract Patterns of tyrosine metabolism were studied throughout cuticle formation, ecdysis, and sclerotization in larval and adult cockroaches, Leucophaea maderae. Decarboxylation in vivo of tyrosine was very low in last instars and pharate adults. DOPA decarboxylase activity in haemolymph and certain tissues was also low but increased rapidly at ecdysis. Extensive conversion of tyrosine to two-carbon side-chain metabolites began near ecdysis and lasted for several days, as evidenced by high 1-14CO2 but almost no 14CO2 from side-chain carbons 2 or 3. DOPA decarboxylase in the haemolymph and integument also reached highest activity during this interval, with the former about four times more active than the latter. In newly ecdysed larvae and adults, haemolymph DOPA decarboxylase was 30 times more active than tyrosine decarboxylase; the latter remained very low throughout the inter-ecdysial and ecdysial periods. After sclerotization, haemolymph and integument DOPA decarboxylase activity gradually declined to pre-ecdysial levels in both larvae and adults. Decarboxylation of tyrosine in vivo decreased for several days after ecdysis in adult insects and leveled off at an activity five times that of larvae. Production of 2- and 3-14CO2 increased with adult age indicating a shift in pathways to production of 1-carbon side-chain and simple ring metabolites.
Interfacial layer development in hot-dip galvanneal coatings on interstitial free (IF) steel

During the annealing of hot-dip galvanized coatings on interstitial free (IF) steel, an interfacial layer was found to develop and grow at the steel/coating interface. The interfacial layer followed a three-step growth process in which there was initial rapid growth up to a thickness of approximately 1.0 µm, followed by a period of essentially no growth with continued zinc and iron interdiffusion into the coating, and finally renewed growth at long time (60 second) anneals. The interfacial layer did not inhibit zinc and iron interdiffusion or the development of the Fe-Zn alloy layer. Coating iron content increased rapidly before the interfacial layer grew to a thickness of 1.0 µm, however, once the coating reached a total iron content in excess of 11.0 wt pct, interfacial layer growth became active and coating iron content increased only slightly with continued annealing. Although powdering of the coating as evaluated by a 60 deg bend test was generally found to increase with an increase in interfacial layer thickness, particularly in excess of 1.0 µm, no definitive relationship between interfacial layer thickness and powdering was found. The thickness of this interfacial layer, however, can be used as an indicator of formability performance.
Ovarian response of the hypophysial stalk-transected pig to pregnant mare serum gonadotropin

Abstract Hypophysial stalk transection (HST) or sham operation (S-HST) was performed on 14 prepuberal gilts, 169 ± 3 days of age and 72.8 ± 3.4 kg body weight (day of surgery=Day 0). Gilts received 1,000 IU of pregnant mare's serum gonadotropin (PMSG) or saline vehicle (V) intramuscularly ( im ) on Day 2 resulting in the following groups: S-HST + V (n=3), S-HST + PMSG (n=4), HST + V (n=3) and HST + PMSG (n=4). Ovarian morphology and weights were recorded after ovariectomy on Day 6. Gilts were weighed on Day 59 ± 3. Sequential blood samples were collected via jugular vein cannula from 6 S-HST and 6 HST gilts on Day 60 ± 3, and all gilts were necropsied on Day 86 ± 7. Body weight gain and whole pituitary gland weight were greater (P
The adaptor protein LAT serves as an integration node for signaling pathways that drive T cell activation

T cells are essential for the adaptive immune response to pathogens. However, dysfunctional T cell activity has been implicated in numerous diseases, including the failure of organ transplants, allergic reactions, asthma, autoimmune disorders, and coronary artery disease. T cell responses to pathogens require the induction of the primary activating receptor, the T cell receptor (TCR), along with other costimulatory and adhesion receptors. Signal transduction pathways activated downstream of these receptors drive T cell responses required for the immune response and disease progression. A key question in our understanding of the mechanism of T cell activation is how signaling pathways emanating from multiple receptors integrate together to alter T cell effector functions. One integration node for intracellular signaling is the membrane-associated adaptor protein linker for the activation of T cells or LAT. Upon stimulation of the TCR and other receptors, LAT is phosphorylated at several tyrosines residues on its cytoplasmic tail. This leads to the binding of SH2 domain-containing proteins and their associated molecules and the formation of large multiprotein complexes. These dynamic and highly regulated signaling complexes facilitate the production of second messengers, activate downstream pathways, induce actin cytoskeleton polymerization, and stimulate the activity of multiple transcription factors. Thus, signaling pathways from several receptors feed into LAT, which then integrates this information and selectively induces pathways critical for T cell activation and the adaptive immune response.
Schwannomas of the sinonasal tract and anterior skull base: a systematic review of 94 cases.

BackgroundSchwannomas of the anterior skull base (ASB) and sinonasal tract are extremely rare. These lesions mimic other pathologies such as olfactory groove meningiomas, hemangiopericytomas, and e...
Ramsey interference fringes in single pulse microwave multiphoton transitions.

In microwave multiphoton transitions between Rydberg atoms driven by short microwave pulses we have observed that the rise and fall of the pulse are as important as the peak and together can produce readily visible interference in the transition probability. Furthermore, the transition probability vanishes for some tunings and can be suppressed if the ac Stark shift brings the two states into resonance at the peak of the microwave pulse with a large Rabi frequency.
Boron determination in biological materials by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission and mass spectrometry: effects of sample dissolution methods

This study compares four sample dissolution methods for Boron determination in two National Institute of Standard and Technology (NIST) botanical Standard Reference Materials (SRMs) and three Agriculture Canada/NIST RMs, each having a reference (certified or best estimate) B concentration. The dissolution treatments consisted of: 1) dry ashing at 500° C, 2) wet digestion with HNO3 + H2O2, 3) extraction with hot HNO3 and 4) closed vessel microwave dissolution. The samples were spiked before and after imposing dissolution treatments to study B recovery by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometric (ICP-MS) analysis. Microwave digests of NIST SRM 1515 and some in-house RMs were also used to compare the B values of ICP-MS and ICP-AES (atomic emission spectrometry). While all three digestion methods (dry ashing, wet ashing and microwave) dissolved botanical samples, only the microwave method worked well for animal tissues. In terms of B values in these materials, there was no significant difference among the three digestion treatments. Near 100% recovery of B spiked before and after the sample dissolution indicates that there may not be a significant loss of B during the dissolution process used in this study. Extraction with hot HNO3 was as effective as the three digestion treatments, and B values for this method agreed well with reference values. For the botanical materials studied, the B values determined by ICP-AES were not significantly different from ICP-MS values. This study shows that a simple, time and labor efficient hot HNO3 extraction is as effective as other digestion/dissolution methods for quantitative B recovery from biological materials.
Properties of Crystalline and Amorphous Silicon Telluride

Single crystals of silicon telluride, which has an unusual 2:3 stoichiometry, have been grown by a chemical vapor deposition technique. A photoluminescence level at 1.3 eV has been found as well as strong EPR signals, suggesting defects in the crystal which also could explain other unusual features. Thin films and bulk samples of silicon telluride glasses, ${\mathrm{Si}}_{x}{\mathrm{Te}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}$, $0.02\ensuremath{\le}x\ensuremath{\le}0.25$, were prepared and examined by optical absorption, photoconductivity, infrared transmission, electrical conductivity, Hall effect, differential thermal analysis, EPR, and x-ray experiments. The values of the energy gap (0.7 to 1.0 eV), resistivity ($\ensuremath{\sim}5\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{5}$ \ensuremath{\Omega} cm), and glass transition temperature (120 to 175 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C) were found to increase throughout the glass-forming region, with increasing silicon. Some microscopic structural features are shared by crystal and glass, including the presence of Si${\mathrm{Te}}_{4}$ tetrahedra, interatomic distances and reststrahlen absorption bands, even though the bonding seems to change from largely ionic in the crystal to largely covalent in the glasses. No EPR signal could be detected in the bulk glasses down to 77\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K. The Hall mobility of the glasses is approximately 1.0 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$/V sec, independent of room temperature from 200 to 300 \ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K, and indicates the predominance of hole conduction. No polaron effects are evident. Structurally, a covalent model consisting of tetravalent silicon and divalent tellurium is consistent with all the data for the amorphous system.
Management based critical success factors in the implementation of Enterprise Resource Planning systems

Abstract This study examines critical success factors for implementing Enterprise Resource Planning systems using the framework of classical management theory. The study is motivated by conflicting results in earlier studies examining critical success factors in Enterprise Resource Planning implementation, many of which are anecdotal in nature. Ten critical success factors in ERP systems implementation proposed in past literature are selected. The relationship between each of these factors and project success is examined. Project success is defined as organizational impact and on time and on/under budget project completion. Eight implementation projects were qualitatively analyzed using the case study method to examine the proposed relationships. The findings suggest that choosing the right full time project manager, training of personnel, and the presence of a champion relate to project success. The use of consultants, the role of management in reducing user resistance and the use of a steering committee to control the project do not appear to differentiate successful and unsuccessful projects. Integration of ERP planning with business planning, reporting level of the project manager, and active participation of the CEO beyond project approvals, resource allocation and occasional project review, are not found to be critical factors of success. Considering the financial cost and risk associated with these projects, a better understanding of critical success factors will enable practitioners and academics to improve the chance of success in the implementation projects. All organizations implementing ERP, especially small and mid-sized enterprises with limited resources, will benefit from this knowledge.
Computer education in the secondary school: Problems and solutions

The phenominal demand for computer education has placed heavy burdens on most educational institutions. University computer science departments all over the country are hard pressed to supply faculty and facilities for the “masses” of students desiring an education in computer science. Secondary schools have experienced this same demand on the part of the students. Even though the problems that these demands cause are equivalent in many respects to those in universities, solutions at the secondary level are not as easy or as speedy.
Chloroquine enhancement of anticancer drug cytotoxicity in multiple drug resistant human leukemic cells.

Abstract Vinblastine-sensitive (CCRF-CEM) and -resistant (CEM/VLB 100 ) human T-cell lymphoblasts were treated with the lysosomotropic agent chloroquine. As measured by growth inhibition, this drug enhanced the cytotoxicity of vinblastine in the CEM/VLB 100 cells but was less effective in the CCRF-CEM cells. Chloroquine also enhanced the cytotoxic activity of vincristine, daunorubicin and doxorubicin and, to a lesser extent, teniposide (VM-26) in the CEM/VLB 100 cells. Histological examination revealed that the vinblastine-resistant cells contained more cytoplasmic vacuoles than their drug-sensitive counterparts. When the CEM/VLB 100 cells were treated with chloroquine, vinblastine, or a combination of the two, the cells displayed many more cytoplasmic vacuoles than the controls. Coincident with the increased number of vacuoles, these treated cells stained more intensely than controls for the lysosomal enzyme, acid phosphatase, but not for lipid. The vacuolization did not increase as much in the CCRF-CEM cell line when these cells were exposed to the chloroquine + vinblastine combination. Vacuolization was also associated with vincristine, doxorubicin, and daunorubicin treatments, but not with VM-26. We conclude that chloroquine is a modulator of anticancer drug action in the CEM/VLB 100 cell line.
Surface area of the intersection of three spheres with unequal radii A simplified analytical formula

A simple analytical formula is presented for the surface area of the intersection of three spheres with unequal radii that meet in a pair of points.
Evaluation of revised IPSS cytogenetic risk stratification and prognostic impact of monosomal karyotype in 783 patients with primary myelodysplastic syndromes

Cytogenetic classification by the revised international prognostic scoring system (IPSS-R) and the prognostic value of monosomal karyotype (MK) were assessed in 783 patients with primary myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). At 22 months median follow-up, 562 (72%) deaths were recorded. Percentages of patients with IPSS-R "very good," "good," "intermediate," "poor," and "very poor" cytogenetic categories was 5, 63, 18, 4, and 10%, respectively. The corresponding median survivals were 21, 40, 24, 18, and 6.5 months and the inter-group differences (good vs. very good/intermediate/poor vs. very poor; P < 0.01) or similarities (very good vs. intermediate vs. poor; P = 0.79) were not significantly modified in multivariable analysis. Results were similar when analysis was restricted to 602 patients managed by supportive care. MK adversely affected survival in both poor and very poor karyotype groups (P < 0.01). In conclusion, we were unable to confirm the prognostic superiority of IPSS-R-very good karyotype or prognostically distinguish between very good, intermediate and poor karyotypes. Furthermore, we show additional prognostic information from MK in poor/very poor karyotype.
Total Synthesis of Bafilomycin V1: A Methanolysis Product of the Macrolide Bafilomycin C2

A synthesis of bafilomycin V1, a methanolysis product of the macrolide natural product bafilomycin C2, is described. The route utilizes chiral nonracemic allenylzinc reagents, prepared in situ from propargylic mesylates, to access key segments of this methyl ester. The acetylenic moieties of the derived homopropargylic alcohol adducts play an important role in further elaboration of these subunits. Final assemblage of the 25-carbon chain, containing 12 stereocenters, an α-methoxy Z,E 1,3-dienic ester, and an additional E,E 1,3-diene, was achieved through Stille coupling of an acetylene-derived vinyl stannane and vinyl iodide of approximate equal complexity. Attempted cyclization of several C15 hydroxy acid derivatives to the 16-membered lactone bafilomycin A1, a potent inhibitor of vacuolar ATPases, could not be achieved.
TAURINE IN MILK: SPECIES VARIATION

There is apparently a large requirement for taurino (tau) in the neonatal period; for a number of species, such as nan and the cat, there is a dietary requirement because of limitRd ability to synthesize tau. We showed that oven in the rat, which can synthesize tau readily, a significant proportion of neonate brain tau originates from the milk. Therefore, we measured the free amino acid composition of milks from 15 species, including variation throughout lactation. Tau is a major constituent of most species milk: In rhesus monkey, dog, cat and gerbil milk tau is the free amino acid in highest concentration. In chimp, baboon and java monkey milk tau is exceeded only by glutamate; in sheep milk only by glycine and in rat milk only by ethanolamine. Species whose milk does not contain tau as a major constituent, i.e. cow, rabbit, guinea pig and horse, have glycine and/or glutamate as a major constituent. Horse milk was the only milk which contained neither tau nor glycine, the two amino acids usually involved in bile acid conjugation, as a major constituent. The milk tau concentration of man, cow, sheep and rat was highest in the first few days of lactation. The special importance of these results for feeding the human infant will be discussed in terms of the high concentration of tau in human milk and neonatal brain and the low intake of tau on cow milk and formulas now made from it.
Synthetic Receptors for CG Base Pairs

Hydrogen-bond-mediated complexation of a CG base pair by a hexylureido phthalimide and a hexylureido isoindolin-1-one was studied by 1H NMR spectroscopy in an organic solvent. Chemical shift data indicate that both receptors effectively bind the CG base pair from the major groove side.
Kinesin-13 and Tubulin Posttranslational Modifications Regulate Microtubule Growth in Axon Regeneration

The microtubule (MT) cytoskeleton of a mature axon is maintained in a stabilized steady state, yet after axonal injury it can be transformed into a dynamic structure capable of supporting axon regrowth. Using Caenorhabditis elegans mechanosensory axons and in vivo imaging, we find that, in mature axons, the growth of MTs is restricted in the steady state by the depolymerizing kinesin-13 family member KLP-7. After axon injury, we observe a two-phase process of MT growth upregulation. First, the number of growing MTs increases at the injury site, concomitant with local downregulation of KLP-7. A second phase of persistent MT growth requires the cytosolic carboxypeptidase CCPP-6, which promotes Δ2 modification of α-tubulin. Both phases of MT growth are coordinated by the DLK-1 MAP kinase cascade. Our results define how the stable MT cytoskeleton of a mature neuron is converted into the dynamically growing MT cytoskeleton of a regrowing axon.
Bounds on the effective thermal conductivity of a dispersion of fully penetrable spheres

Abstract We evaluate upper and lower bounds on the effective thermal conductivity Ke of a model of two-phase composite materials in which one of the phases consists of spherical inclusions (or voids) of conductivity K2 and volume fraction φ2, dispersed randomly throughout a matrix phase of conductivity K1 and volume fraction φ1. Our evaluations compare third-order bounds of Beran and of Brown, which utilize the three-point matrix probability function of the model, with bounds of De Vera and Strieder (which apply only to the aforementioned “fully penetrable sphere” model) and of Hashin and Shtrikman. The comparisons are made over extended ranges of values of both φ2 and α = K 2 K 1 and reveal that the best bounds among those we have tested (generally those of Beran) are sharp enough to give quantitatively useful estimates of Ke for 0.1 ≤ K 2 K 1 ≤ 10 over a wide range of φ2 values. They are sharp at high φ2 values (i.e., φ2 = 0.9) and very sharp at low φ2 values (e.g. φ2 = 0.1) where they remain useful for K 2 K 1 ≈ 100 . They are less sharp at intermediate values (e.g. φ2 = 0.5). As is well known, such results immediately translate into equivalent results for the electrical conductivity, dielectric constant, or magnetic permeability of composites.
Spectroscopic characterization of alumina supported transition metal carbonyl catalysts. 2. W(CO)6 and Cr(CO)6

Abstract The adsorption and decomposition of W(CO) 6 and Cr(CO) 6 on a γ-alumina surface have been studied specroscopically. The results for W(CO) 6 are very similar to those reported for Mo(CO) 6 in an earlier paper. Physically adsorbed W(CO) 6 decomposes on heating to form subcarbonyl species, particularly bimolecular species in which bridging carbonyl ligands are coordinated to Lewis acid sites on the support. No such bimolecular species are formed with Cr(CO) 6 , and complete decarbonylation of the adsorbed complex is achieved more readily as a result. The chemistry of the Group 6B carbonyls on alumina is compared.
Radial Echo-Planar Imaging

Abstract A new ultrafast magnetic resonance imaging pulse sequence named radial echo-planar imaging (rEPI) is introduced. The sequence is based on a modification of the echo-planar imaging (EPI) sequence to scank-space radially, in an attempt to combine the speed of EPI with the benefits of radial sampling. Like in EPI, all the desired lines ink-space are scanned consecutively in opposite directions. The unique feature of this new sequence, however, is that the orientation of the readout gradient is incrementally rotated, so that all the echoes are refocused through the center ofk-space. Therefore, rEPI data are acquired in a polar grid, and image reconstruction can be done either by means of filtered back-projection or by regridding the data to a Cartesian matrix followed by 2D Fourier transform. First results show that rEPI images can be acquired with the same speed and signal-to-noise ratio of EPI images. rEPI images are also shown to be less sensitive to off-resonance effects than EPI images. Further studies are underway to investigate the usefulness of rEPI for spectroscopic imaging and applications affected by motion.
Good Readers and Good Liberals: Nabokov’s Aesthetic Liberalism

This article offers an interpretation of Vladimir Nabokov’s unique contribution to political theory as seen primarily through the lens of his novel Invitation to a Beheading. Although most frequent...
Using the Nintendo Wii Remote in an Engineering Context: Presentation of a Specific Implementation and Applications

Integration of the Nintendo Wii Remote (Wiimote) with computers has been an innovation for open community developers as a video game device and beyond. The same qualities which have made the device popular among this community (i.e. cost, accessibility and open development) make it a powerful inexpensive interface device which can be used in virtual environments to support engineering analysis and design activities. Interface devices in engineering currently include data gloves, tactile input devices and high precision tracking systems which typically require significant financial investment. The Wiimote can be utilized to duplicate, at reduced, but in most cases acceptable standards, the combined capabilities of these traditional devices but at much lower cost. This paper presents background on the ongoing innovations of the open community of developers using the Wiimote and provides a knowledge base of the technology that can be applied to support various aspects of engineering. In addition various development approaches are discussed to provide potential developers with direction in their own Wiimote programming. As part of the method presentation, the implementation of the Wiimote at the New York State Center for Engineering Design and Industrial Innovation (NYSCEDII) is presented in terms of necessary hardware and software utilized to support interactive environments. The paper concludes with a presentation of current applications including the use of the Wiimote as a wireless input device for large system design exploration, a tracking system for head movement in dynamic simulations, visualization of consumer product interaction and tracking of an interactive Wii-glove. The applications represent initial development of what is expected to become a valuable tool for research and education in engineering.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Circuit related issues due to radiation in hostile environments

Various types of radiation in hostile environments cause transient and permanent changes in the devices used in complex integrated circuits. The failure of a particular IC is a function not only of the basic material and device parameter changes but also of the circuit environment in which the device is located. Circuit techniques have been developed which minimize the detrimental effects of radiation on certain types of circuits. In other cases, circuit techniques are not very effective in minimizing radiation effects. This work discusses selected issues related to the interactions between device radiation effects and circuit performance or circuit failure in a hostile radiation environment. This is not meant to be a comprehensive study of circuit effects but rather several examples are selected to illustrate the issues involved in designing circuits to operate in hostile radiation environments.
International Changes in the World Oil Market A Simulation Perspective

The oil price increases of October 1973 triggered a set of changes in the international system that promise to have continued, long-term effects. This article begins with a review of the major attempts to model the world oil market and provides syntheses of their char acteristics and worldview. The structure of the International Petroleum Exchange Model developed at MIT is then presented, followed by a set of simulations (forecasts) of future changes in petroleum supply and demand associated with alternative price paths. The simulations are also compared with empirical data to provide some insights into the potential accuracy of the forecasts.
Determination of Bulk Properties of Tropical Cloud Clusters from Large-Scale Heat and Moisture Budgets

Abstract The bulk properties of tropical cloud clusters, such as the vertical mass flux, the excess temperature, and moisture and the liquid water content of the clouds, are determined from a combination of 1) the observed large-scale heat and moisture budgets over an area covering the cloud cluster, and 2) a model of a cumulus ensemble which exchanges mass, heat, water vapor and liquid water with the environment through entrainment and detrainment. The method also provides an understanding of how the environmental air is heated and moistened by the cumulus convection. An estimate of the average cloud cluster properties and the heat and moisture balance of the environment, obtained from 1956 Marshall Islands data, is presented.
Motoneuron death during development, following injury and in neurological disease

Abstract Naturally occurring (programmed) neuronal cell death is an important regressive event in the peripheral and central nervous system during development of many vertebrate species. For example, in the chick, mouse, rat and human, approximately 50% of postmitotic spinal motoneurons undergo programmed cell death at the time when they are establishing synaptic contacts with target muscles. Motoneurons that survive this critical period can undergo degeneration and death later during development or in adulthood following physical/metabolic injury or as a result of disease. There exist several animal and human motoneuron diseases that are characterized by motoneuron degeneration and/or death in the brain or spinal cord. However, little is known about their aetiology and because there is no therapy for these diseases, their outcome is often fatal. This paper reviews motoneuron death and, to a lesser extent, its prevention during normal development, following traumatic injury, and in pathological conditions.
Possible Mechanisms Underlying the Differential Effects of Selective Inhibitors of Type A and Type B Monoamine Oxidase on Intraocular Pressure in the Cat

ABSTRACT Intraocular pressure and facility of aqueous outflow were measured in adult cats after topical application of clorgyline, a selective inhibitor of type A monoamine oxidase (MAO), or deprenyl, a selective inhibitor of type B of the enzyme. Clorgyline produced a dose-related lowering of intraocular pressure which was associated with a dose-related increase in outflow facility. Sympathetic denervation markedly reduced both these effects of clorgyline. Both effects, on the other hand, persisted after death of the animals. Deprenyl did not lower intraocular pressure; in fact, a tendency toward pressure elevation was apparent 2 hours after its administration. Outflow facility was not significantly changed. These results suggest that an endogenous substrate of type A MAO, presumably norepinephrine, is responsible for the ocular tension lowering effect of clorgyline. Because cessation of circulation after death did not abolish the effect, it is assumed that the trabecular meshwork is the site of action a...
A case of polymicrobial endocarditis due to anaerobic organisms in an injection drug user

Endocarditis is a serious complication of injection drug use most commonly due to Staphylococcus aureus. We report a case of tricuspid valve polymicrobial bacterial endocarditis in an injection drug user from 3 oral anaerobes: Actinomyces odontolytica, Veillonella species, and Prevotella melaninogenica. The patient was believed to have acquired these organisms due to his habit of licking the needle in order to gauge the strength of the cocaine prior to injection. The patient was successfully treated with a 6-week course of penicillin G and metronidazole. This case demonstrates the importance of a detailed history in designing empiric therapy.
Strange attractors in weakly turbulent Couette-Taylor flow.

An experiment is conducted on the transition from quasi-periodic to weakly turbulent flow of a fluid contained between concentric cylinders with the inner cylinder rotating and the outer cylinder at rest. Power spectra, phase-space portraits, and circle maps obtained from velocity time-series data indicate that the nonperiodic behavior observed is deterministic, that is, it is described by strange attractors. Various problems that arise in computing the dimension of strange attractors constructed from experimental data are discussed and it is shown that these problems impose severe requirements on the quantity and accuracy of data necessary for determining dimensions greater than about 5. In the present experiment the attractor dimension increases from 2 at the onset of turbulence to about 4 at a Reynolds number 50-percent above the onset of turbulence.
Effect of Pilocarpine on Acid-Soluble Phosphate Compounds of Rat Following Hepatectomy.∗

SummaryStudies have been made on the effect of intraperitoneal injection of diphenylhydantoin sodium on liver restitution in the rat after partial hepatectomy. It was found that preoperative treatment of animals with 10 mg/day of the drug for 10 days followed by a continuation of therapy after hepatectomy resulted in a significantly greater rate of dry weight of liver restored per 100 g of body weight, from days 2 through 5 after hepatectomy. No effect of the drug was observed when administered only after operation. This experiment demonstrates that this proliferative effect is not limited to cells of connective tissue origin.
Effect of diazocyclopentadiene on tomato ripening

Diazocyclopentadiene (DACP) in the presence of fluorescent light delayed ripening of tomato fruits treated at the mature green (no visible red) stage. At 25 °C, ripening was delayed 10 days if DACP [185 µl/1 (gas)] was added as a single treatment and longer if DACP was added intermittently at 5-day intervals. The addition of 1000 µl/1 ethylene following DACP and light treatment did not hasten ripening. Little ripening delay was noted for fruit + DACP held in darkness. Tomatoes covered with aluminum foil so as to exclude light but not light-activated DACP, showed ripening inhibition. Apparently, the light-activated product from DACP is stable long enough to diffuse into fruit held in darkness. After an initial inhibition, ethylene production was greatly increased in tomatoes treated with DACP. Tomatoes with or without DACP treatment were held either in air or 5% O2/95% N2 for 12 days then treated with ethylene. Treatment with 5% O2 alone delayed ripening when compared to air alone, however, both groups reached 80% red color by 18 days. DACP treated fruit, whether held in air or 5% O2, still were green after 18 days and only approached 80% red color after approximately 27 days. Thus, 5% oxygen did not appear to slow the reversal of DACP inhibition of ripening.
Low altitude, one centimeter, space debris search at Lincoln Laboratory's (M.I.T.) experimental test system

The majority of work performed by the Lincoln Laboratory's Space Surveillance Group, at the request of NASA, to define the near-earth population of man-made debris is summarized. Electrooptical devices, each with a 1.2 deg FOV, were employed at the GEODSS facility in New Mexico. Details of the equipment calibration and alignment procedures are discussed, together with implementation of a synchronized time code for computer controlled videotaping of the imagery. Parallax and angular speed data served as bases for distinguishing between man-made debris and meteoroids. The best visibility was obtained in dawn and dusk twilight conditions at elevation ranges of 300-2000 km. Tables are provided of altitudinal density distribution of debris. It is noted that the program also yielded an extensive data base on meteoroid rates.