cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Initiation of puberty in mice following decellularized ovary transplant.

Clinical interventions to preserve fertility and restore hormone levels in female patients with therapy-induced ovarian failure are insufficient, particularly for pediatric cancer patients. Laparoscopic isolation of cortical ovarian tissue followed by cryopreservation with subsequent autotransplantation has temporarily restored fertility in at least 27 women who survived cancer, and aided in pubertal transition for one pediatric patient. However, reintroducing cancer cells through ovarian transplantation has been a major concern. Decellularization is a process of removing cellular material, while maintaining the organ skeleton of extracellular matrices (ECM). The ECM that remains could be stripped of cancer cells and reseeded with healthy ovarian cells. We tested whether a decellularized ovarian scaffold could be created, recellularized and transplanted to initiate puberty in mice. Bovine and human ovaries were decellularized, and the ovarian skeleton microstructures were characterized. Primary ovarian cells seeded onto decellularized scaffolds produced estradiol in vitro. Moreover, the recellularized grafts initiated puberty in mice that had been ovariectomized, providing data that could be used to drive future human transplants and have broader implications on the bioengineering of other organs with endocrine function.
Two KCNQ1 Mutations Associated with Familial Atrial Fibrillation, S140G and V141M, Demonstrate Distinct Voltage Sensor Phenotypes

KCNQ1 is a voltage-dependent potassium channel that is expressed in the heart with the β-subunit KCNE1 to generate the slowly activating IKs current that plays a critical role in cardiac impulse conduction by allowing cardiac repolarization. Mutations in KCNQ1 leading to slowing of channel deactivation have been linked to arrhythmias including Short QT syndrome and familial atrial fibrillation. Two adjacent disease-linked mutations located in the voltage sensing domain (S1-S4) of KCNQ1, S140G and V141M, have been shown to drastically slow current deactivation. While their effects on IKs current deactivation kinetics are similar, their mechanisms may differ. For example, in the absence of KCNE1, S140G but not V141M slows current deactivation. Moreover, crosslinking studies suggest that while V141M can directly interact with KCNE1, S140G cannot. We explore the hypothesis that S140G and V141M, while exhibiting similar effects in IKs current gating, demonstrate distinct phenotypes on voltage sensor movement. Using voltage clamp fluorometry, we studied voltage sensor movement simultaneously with channel current. We found that in the absence of KCNE1, S140G but not V141M slows voltage sensor deactivation, consistent with their effects on current. Furthermore, in the presence of KCNE1, S140G slows voltage sensor movement, but V141M does not slow voltage sensor deactivation. This work shows that while S140G slows both the current deactivation and voltage sensor movement in the presence and absence of KCNE1, in contrast, V141M slows current deactivation only in the presence of KCNE1, without significantly slowing the kinetics of voltage sensor movement. This suggests that these two mutations slow the deactivation of KCNQ1/KCNE1 channels by different mechanisms, an observation made possible by the simultaneous measurement of both voltage sensor movement and channel current.
A comparison of the cytochrome P-450 species induced by mirex and 3,4,5,3',4',5'-hexachlorobiphenyl in hepatic microsomes of the mouse.

Abstract The patterns of hepatic microsomal cytochrome(s) P -450, induced by oral administration of Mirex and 3,4,5,3′,4′,5′-hexachlorobiphenyl, resemble those induced by phenobarbital and 3-methylcholanthrene, respectively. Low (30 μmole/kg) and high (120 μmole/kg) doses of Mirex elevated the relative concentrations of cytochrome P -450 species having apparent molecular weights of 45,000, 47,000, and 56,000. In microsomes from mice treated with the higher dose, however, the relative concentration of the 56,000-dalton hemoprotein was elevated above that found in hepatic microsomes from mice treated with the lower dose of this compound. The increased relative concentration of this hemoprotein is associated with hypochromic shifts of the carbon monoxide and n -octylamine difference spectra of the hepatic microsomal samples. The primary hepatic microsomal hemoprotein induced by 3-methylcholanthrene and 3,4,5,3′,4′,5′-hexachlorobiphenyl has an apparent molecular weight of 54,000. This hemoprotein can be distinguished from the high-molecular-weight hemoprotein induced by Mirex or phenobarbital by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate. The carbon monoxide and n -octylamine difference spectra of microsomes from mice treated with 3-methylcholanthrene or the chlorinated biphenyl are similar.
Relationship between tool flank wear area and component forces in single point turning

Abstract This paper describes the relationship between flank wear area and cutting forces for turning operations. A set of experiments were performed on a CNC lathe without coolant. The CNMG120412N-UJ tool insert was used to cut low alloy steel (AISI 4340). Flank wear surface area was measured by surface texture instrument (Form Talysurf™ series) using a software package. Cutting forces were measured by a Kistler™ piezo-electric dynamometer. The experimental results show that there is an increase in the three directional components of the cutting force with increase in flank wear area. Among the three cutting forces measured, the tangential force is the largest while the radial force is the smallest. However, when the tool insert begins to fail, all the three cutting forces increase sharply, especially so for the axial and radial cutting forces. The radial force was also found to be slightly larger than the axial force when tool begins to fail. This paper also presents mathematical modeling for better understanding of the relationship between flank wear area and cutting forces. The mathematical models were solved by Matlab.
In vitro activity of trospectomycin (U-63366F), a novel spectinomycin analog, against gram-positive isolates from cancer patients

The in vitro activity of trospectomycin was compared to that of amikacin, cephalothin and vancomycin against gram-positive organisms, mostly isolated from cancer patients. Trospectomycin was considerably more active than amikacin against most isolates tested, particularly species ofStaphylococcus andStreptococcus. Overall, vancomycin was the most active agent tested.
A simple method for the differential counting of radioactive iron (Fe59) and chromium-51 in mixtures.

A method is described for the accurate counting of Cr51 and Fe59 in mixtures containing both isotopes. This method makes use of only a scintillation counter and associated scaler. Neither lead filters nor gamma-ray spectrometer is needed, and the accuracy is as good as that of either of the other two methods.
Kinetic analysis of the actinorhodin aromatic polyketide synthase.

Abstract Type II polyketide synthases (PKSs) are bacterial multienzyme systems that catalyze the biosynthesis of a broad range of natural products. A core set of subunits, consisting of a ketosynthase, a chain length factor, an acyl carrier protein (ACP) and possibly a malonyl CoA:ACP transacylase (MAT) forms a “minimal” PKS. They generate a poly-β-ketone backbone of a specified length from malonyl-CoA derived building blocks. Here we (a) report on the kinetic properties of the actinorhodin minimal PKS, and (b) present further data in support of the requirement of the MAT. Kinetic analysis showed that the apoACP is a competitive inhibitor of minimal PKS activity, demonstrating the importance of protein-protein interactions between the polypeptide moiety of the ACP and the remainder of the minimal PKS. In further support of the requirement of MAT for PKS activity, two new findings are presented. First, we observe hyperbolic dependence of PKS activity on MAT concentration, saturating at very low amounts (half-maximal rate at 19.7 ± 5.1 nm). Since MAT can support PKS activity at less than 1/100 the typical concentration of the ACP and ketosynthase/chain length factor components, it is difficult to rule out the presence of trace quantities of MAT in a PKS reaction mixture. Second, an S97A mutant was constructed at the nucleophilic active site of the MAT. Not only can this mutant protein support PKS activity, it is also covalently labeled by [14C]malonyl-CoA, demonstrating that the serine nucleophile (which has been the target of PMSF inhibition in earlier studies) is dispensible for MAT activity in a Type II PKS system.
Effect of Rare Earth Elements (Er, Ho) on Semi-Metallic Materials (ScN) in an Applied Electric Field

The development of materials and fabrication technology for field-controlled spectrally active optics is essential for applications such as membrane optics, filters for LIDARs, windows for sensors, telescopes, spectroscopes, cameras and flat-panel displays. The dopants of rare earth elements, in a host of optical systems, create a number of absorption and emission band structures and can easily be incorporated into many high quality crystalline and amorphous hosts. In wide band-gap semiconductors like ScN, the existing deep levels can capture or emit the mobile charges, and can be ionized with the loss or capture of the carriers which are the fundamental basis of concept for smart optic materials. The band gap shrinkage or splitting with dopants supports the possibility of this concept. In the present work, a semi-metallic material (ScN) was doped with rare earth elements (Er, Ho) and tested under an applied electric field to characterize spectral and refractive index shifts by either Stark or Zeeman Effect. These effects can be verified using the UV-Vis spectroscopy, the Hall Effect measurement and the ellipsometric spectroscopy. The optical band gaps of ScN doped with Er and doped with Ho were experimentally estimated as 2.33eV and 2.24eV ( 0.2eV) respectively. This is less than that of undoped ScN (2.5 0.2eV). The red-shifted absorption onset is a direct evidence for the decrease of band gap energy (Eg), and the broadening of valence band states is attributable to the doping cases. A decrease in refractive index with an applied field was observed as a small shift in absorption coefficient using a variable angle spectroscopic ellipsometer. In the presence of an electric field, mobile carriers are redistributed within the space charge region (SCR) to produce this electro-refractive effect. The shift in refractive index is also affected by the density and location of deep potential wells within the SCR. In addition, the microstructure change was observed by a TEM analysis. These results give an insight for future applications for the field-controlled spectrally active material systems.
A Novel Terminase Activity Associated with the DNA Packaging Protein gp17 of Bacteriophage T4

The mechanism of generation of circularly permuted ends in bacteriophage T4 by a strictly headful packaging process has remained unresolved since its proposal by Streisinger et al. (1967, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 57, 292-295). In this paper, we show that the phage T4 DNA packaging proteins gp16 and gp17 act as T4 terminase. Expression of gp16 and gp17 in Escherichia coli resulted in extensive cleavage of both plasmid as well as E. coli genomic DNAs. Analysis of a number of recombinant terminase constructs, and mutants in gene 17, demonstrated that the active site for cleavage of DNA is located in gp17, but not in gp16. Consistent with the circularly permuted nature of phage T4 ends, cleavage by gp17 occurred in a sequence independent manner generating random ends. The terminase cutting occurred preferentially on a DNA substrate that is transcriptionally active. We propose that a structural feature in the transcriptionally active region provides a site for attachment of terminase to DNA following which the terminase moves along the DNA, and cleaves at a random sequence.
Attraction in organizations: A model of workplace romance

Antecedents and consequences of participating in a romantic relationship in the workplace are critically examined. These factors are derived from social-psychological theories of interpersonal attraction, romantic attraction, love, emotion, and social exchange, as well as from previous research addressing romance in the workplace. The antecedent factors explain the processes by which romantic relationships develop between two members of the same organization, and the consequent factors highlight both the beneficial and detrimental effects that such relationships have on the participants, coworkers, and the host organization. Based on these formation and impact factors, a conceptual model of workplace romance is developed along with a series of testable propositions in order to facilitate and direct future research on romantic organizational behavior.
Thermal distortion limits on the performance of XUV free-electron lasers configured with a multifacet-mirror ring resonator

XUV (10 mn{le} {gamma} {le} 100 nm) free-electron lasers (FELS) are potential light sources for materials research applications (to complement future synchrotron light sources) and soft x-ray projection lithography applications for the manufacture of electronic microcircuits. Requirements for compact physical dimensions for these devices, together with relatively low reflectivity mirrors and small optical beam sizes at these wave-lengths, make thermal loading of the mirrors of XUV FEL oscillators a potentially serious problem. In this paper, we consider the effects of thermal distortion of the on the performance of an XUV FEL designed specifically as a 60 nm light source for lithographic applications. We formulate a mathematical model of the relevant physical processes, and solve that model with the aid of a 3 - D FEL simulation code. The numerical solutions demonstrate the existence of an unusual optical mode of the FEL oscillator in which the steady-state resonator power decreases linearly as the thermal distortion coefficient of the mirrors increases. The stabilizing effect of a scraper mirror as a mode control aperture is discussed. Limits on the magnitude of the mirror thermal distortion coefficient, for which near ideal FEL performance is retained, are discussed.
Natural frequencies of rotating prestressed cylinders

A vibration analysis is described, involving the use of complex Fourier series, by means of which the complete frequency eigenvalue spectrum and associated mode shapes for rotating axially, radially and torsionally prestressed cylindrical shells can be obtained. Due to its generality, the solution procedure can also handle the effects of constructional and material anisotropy together with arbitrary boundary conditions. From the solution, it is found that torsional prestress, rotation effects and constructional and/or material anisotropy each independently cause bifurcations in the frequency spectrum. In fact, it is found that the combined effects of prestress, rotation and anisotropy can cause an eightfold bifurcation in the frequency eigenvalue spectrum.
A Multi-Physics Particle-Augmented Mixed Lubrication Modeling Approach for Studying CMP

An integrated multi-physics approach was taken in order to model the complex physics behind chemical-mechanical polishing (CMP). This model, known as the particle-augmented mixed lubrication model, accounts for the important mechanical interactions in CMP—namely, fluid mechanics, particle dynamics, contact mechanics, and wear—and incorporates all of them into an integrated algorithm. The compiled model is then simulated over a series of time steps in order to form a predictive tool for CMP.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
Optimal determination of geopotential base height for stratospheric temperature sounders

A technique is developed for optimally determining a base geopotential field, on which stratospheric heights may be constructed from remotely sensed temperatures. The scheme employs height information from within as well as below remote observational levels. In addition to producing best-estimate height fields within the observational volume, the procedure also yields the optimal level on which to base remotely derived thicknesses. The technique is demonstrated to yield an unbiased and optimal (in the sense of minimized rms error) estimate of the height at levels where conventional errors are typically large. A significant reduction in the rms error is achieved within the sample volume, most notably in cases where the conventional height error grows rapidly in the vertical. At levels where the conventional error has diverged, say due to sparsity in conventional observations, the error in the estimate remains at respectable values. The scheme is thus an effective means of ‘securing’ a reasonable height field at levels where conventional errors may be unacceptable.
Prediction of Infinite Dilution Activity Coefficients of Organic Compounds in Aqueous Solution from Molecular Structure

A quantitative structure−property relationship study is performed to develop models that relate the structures of a heterogeneous group of organic compounds to their infinite dilution activity coefficients, γ∞. The molecular structures are represented by calculated descriptors that encode their topological, electronic, and geometric features. The descriptors are used to develop multiple linear regression and computational neural network models to predict the γ∞. Genetic algorithm and simulated annealing routines are used to select subsets of descriptors that form the best models. The models that are developed have predictive ability in the range of the experimental error of infinite dilution activity coefficient measurements.
Microtubule dynamics in serum-starved and serum-stimulated swiss 3T3 mouse fibroblasts: Implications for the relationship between serum-induced contractility and microtubules

It has been established that cell contractility can be stimulated with low or depolymerizing doses of microtubule (MT) poisons. In addition, low doses of nocodazole and vinblastine have recently been shown to decrease MT dynamics in vivo. In this study, investigated whether there is a direct, or reciprocal feedback-type relationship between contractility and microtubule dynamics, by examining MT dynamic behavior in live cells under conditions where contractility is known to be altered. Quiescent, serum-starved Swiss 3T3 mouse fibroblasts have been shown to be weakened in their contractility; serum stimulation increases cell contractility and causes the formation of stress fibers and adhesion plaques. Growing (control), quiescent (Go), and serum-stimulated cells were injected with rhodamine-tubulin, and MT dynamics were determined by analysis of MT length changes obtained from digitized images of the extreme periphery of the cells, where the MT ends were readily apparent. The MTs in quiescent cells were less dynamic than those in control cells: the growth and shortening rates were reduced by 30% and 45%, respectively. Dynamicity decreased by 47%, and the MTs spent more time in pause. After serum stimulation, MT growth rate, dynamicity, and time spent in pause returned to control cell levels. Although the shortening rate increased by 28%, it remained significantly lower than in control cells. In this system, the serum-induced increase in contractility was accompanied by an increase in MT dynamics. However, increased contractility stimulated with low doses of MT poisons is known to be accompanied by a decrease in MT dynamics. These results suggest that the relationship between MT dynamics and contractility is an indirect one.
Urban poverty and the family context of delinquency: a new look at structure and process in a classic study

This paper reanalyzes data from the Gluecks classic study of 500 delinquents and 500 nondelinquents reared in low-income neighborhoods of central Boston. Based on a general theory of informal social control, we propose a 2-step hypothesis that links structure and process: family poverty inhibits family processes of informal social control, in turn increasing the likelihood of juvenile delinquency. The results support the theory by showing that (1) erratic, threatening, and harsh discipline, (2) low supervision, and (3) weak parent-child attachment mediate the effects of poverty and other structural factors on delinquency. We also address the potential confounding role of parental and childhood disposition. Although difficult children who display early antisocial tendencies do disrupt family management, as do antisocial and unstable parents, mediating processes of informal social control still explain a large share of variance in adolescent delinquency. Overall, the results underscore the indirect effects of structural contexts like family poverty on adolescent delinquency within disadvantaged populations. We note implications for current debates on race, crime, and the "underclass" in urban America.
Adenine and folic acid in the Lesch-Nyhan syndrome.

Extract: Therapy of identical twin males with the enzyme defect of the Lesch-Nyhan (L-N) syndrome was instituted at 12 hr of age with adenine, 10 mg/kg/24 hr, administered to one twin and folic acid, 15 mg/24 hr, to both. At 4 years of age both twins demonstrate delayed neurologic development and spasticity but are less severely affected than most other patients with this disorder. Administered in subsequent studies to two maternal cousins of the twins who had clinical features of the L-N syndrome and absence of erythrocyte hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase activity were adenine, 10 mg/kg/24 hr, adenine, 40 mg/kg/24 hr, folic acid, and mono-sodium glutamate. Low dose adenine had a slight suppressive effect on glycine-l-14C incorporation into uric acid; high dose adenine had a strong suppressive effect in the second patient. We conclude that the adenine dose chosen for therapy was too low. 2,8-Dihydroxyadenine, a toxic breakdown product of adenine, was detected in the urine at both adenine dose levels. Folic acid and monosodium glutamate in these patients further stimulate accelerated glycine-l-14C incorporation into uric acid. In vitro transport studies, performed with inverted hamster jejunal preparations, suggest that adenine is largely converted to adenine monophosphate when exposed to the mucosal surface. This may limit the passage of orally administered adenine to the central nervous system in patients. Adenine and purine precursors affect the biochemical pathology of the L-N syndrome, in vivo and in vitro, but therapeutic use of adenine, 10 mg/kg/24 hr, and folic acid started on the 1st day of life did not prevent central nervous system dysfunction. Speculation: Variation in clinical presentation occurs in the Lesch-Nyhan syndrome. Although small therapeutic benefit may be ascribed to folic acid therapy in our patients, this is not established with certainty. A different approach may be required to prevent central nervous system disease in patients treated from birth.
Measuring and Assessing Perceptions of Success in a Transit Agency's Stakeholder Involvement Program

Stakeholder involvement is often a legally required activity for transit agencies. Optimally this process begins at the earliest stages of any given project and involves two-way communication and interaction that can be reflected in the resulting plans or project designs. Despite federal statutes and regulations mandating meaningful public input for federal capital funding consideration, approaches to fulfill these mandates successfully remain difficult, and stakeholder involvement practices often fail to have a deep impact on planning outcomes. A gap often exists between implementation plans and the satisfaction of stakeholders. Guided by prior research and applying cognitive mapping methods, this study uses a rail line reconstruction project of the Chicago Transit Authority in Illinois as a case study to systematically understand the gap in expectations and interpretations of success among stakeholders. Findings identify four important categories of goal nonalignment that act as barriers to optimal interaction that can lead to mistrust. Conclusions identify potential solutions for bridging the gaps.
Theory of asymmetric tunneling in the cuprate superconductors

Abstract We explain quantitatively, within the Gutzwiller-Resonating Valence Bond theory, the puzzling observation of tunneling conductivity between a metallic point and a cuprate high- T c superconductor which is markedly asymmetric between positive and negative voltage biases. The asymmetric part does not have a ‘coherence peak’ but does show structure due to the gap. The fit to data is satisfactory within the over-simplifications of the theory; in particular, it explains the marked ‘peak-dip-hump’ structure observed on the hole side and a number of other qualitative observations. This asymmetry is strong evidence for the projective nature of the ground state and hence for ‘ t - J ’ physics.
Design and synthesis of chiral and racemic phosphonate-based haptens for the induction of aldolase catalytic antibodies.

Abstract A novel strategy for the generation of aldolase catalytic antibodies, based on the use of antibody-catalyzed enol ester hydrolysis as a ‘trigger’ to generate a reactive enolate intermediate, is described. A model system to test this strategy was developed and substrate 8 was synthesized. However, the targeted bifunctional haptens 11 and 33 were synthetically inaccessible, and therefore the alternative phosphonate hapten 39 was prepared. The key step in the synthesis of 39 was the direct generation of an unprotected phosphonate precursor via coupling of the secondary alcohol 37 with CH3P(O)Cl2. The chiral counterpart of hapten 39 was also synthesized from alcohol 46, prepared by Corey's asymmetric reduction method. One polyclonal antibody preparation generated from 39 appeared to catalyze the hydrolysis of the secondary acetate 49, but not the desired aldol cyclization of 8. Possible rationales for this finding are discussed.
INTERPRETATIVE MODES OF YIN-YANG DYNAMICS AS AN ASIAN HERMENEUTICS

This study attempts to explore and exemplify several hermeneutical modes of biblical interpretation in light of Asian philosophical systems, especially the concept of the dynamic relationship between yin and yang . By applying some key aspects of the yin-yang dynamics and by utilizing relevant biblical cases, the writer aims to suggest the productivity of reading the biblical texts in dialogue with Asian stories, traditions, and worldviews. The study delineates four major aspects of the yin-yang concepts: (1) duality and plurality, (2) both-and in contradiction and paradox, (3) reciprocity and change, and (4) harmony and balance. Each aspect is defined from various ancient Chinese philosophical resources. The one prominent feature of yin-yang dynamics is the idea of duality and plurality, in that one source has two aspects and those bipolar entities together construct a multi-dimensional whole. Within this complex structure, the opposite components exist together in a "both-and" mutuality rather than "either-or" reduction. In265.p65 stead of repelling against or reducing to one, the two contradictory ideas are often placed together in a dynamic correlation. This dynamic correlation is not static but fluid, constantly changing and flowing within the mutual reciprocity. Two opposite entities not only stand side-by-side but also coerce, challenge, and correct each other in a constant mutual interaction. This mutual interaction does not occur at a random accident but rather for the dynamic retrieval, retaining, and return to the centrality of balance. After defining each of these aspects, selected biblical exemplifications are discussed, in order to present a case that there are many parallel—both similar and opposite—ideas, traditions, and worldviews between the biblical texts and the yin-yang concepts. The biblical exemplifications mainly focus on Genesis 1 and 2, though cases from some other places are also discussed. Several prospects for the possible potentialities and limitations of utilizing this yin-yang dynamics are suggested at the conclusion.
Actinide Separation of High-Level Waste Using Solvent Extractants on Magnetic Microparticles

Abstract Polymeric-coated ferromagnetic particles with an absorbed layer of octyl(phenyl)-N,N-diisobutylcarbamoylmethylphosphine oxide diluted by tributyl phosphate are being evaluated for application in the separation and the recovery of low concentrations of americium and plutonium from nuclear waste solutions. Due to their chemical nature, these extractants selectively complex americium and plutonium contaminants onto the particles, which can be recovered from the waste solution using a magnet. The effectiveness of the extractant-absorbed particles at removing transuranics (TRU) from simulated solutions and various nitric acid solutions was measured by gamma and liquid scintillation counting of plutonium and americium. The HNO3 concentration range was 0.01 to 6 M. The partition coefficients (K d) for various actinides at 2 M HNO3 were determined to be between 3000 and 30,000. These values are larger than those projected for TRU recovery by traditional liquid/liquid extraction. Results from transmission...
Cognitive sensing for distributed behavioral biometrics

This paper presents a cognitive sensing framework that enables tracking and identification of individuals' behavioral biometrics through thermal, pressure, photonic, acoustic, and laser sensors. Besides low cost, those sensors can produce sparse behavioral biometric data that can be analyzed quickly. To achieve this goal, we will develop: (1) a set of cognitive capabilities for sensing systems, such as spatial, data, context, and group awareness; (2) a multi-agent architecture for system operation and adaptation that enables heterogeneous sensors to achieve consensus in behavior analysis; and (3) a set of tools for situation understanding, cross-layer adaptation, and behavior based collaboration. The developed computing infrastructure will enable research activities about behavioral biometrics based on low-cost, low-power, distributed platforms with a variety of sensing modalities. The developed cognitive sensing intelligence has great potentials to cope with the technical challenges in behavioral biometrics caused by long distances and crowded scenes.
Optoelectronic technology for a reconfigurable optical interconnection architecture

ABSTRACT A reconfigurable architecture for parallel, board-to-board optical interconnections is described using a multi-stage optical switching network consisting of monolithically integrable binary optical switch nodes based on surface- emitting lasers and heterojunction phototransistors. 1. INTRODUCTIONElectronic processor chips or multi-chip modules currently communicate with processors on other boards via parallel electronic data buses. With increasing processing speeds or larger transmission distances, the communication between boards becomes increasingly dominated by latency, timing skew, and power dissipation,which can be reduced by replacing the electrical interconnection with an optical one, using fiber or free space asthe transmission medium. Since data is transmitted between distant boards in an optical format, there is electrical isolation between boards. At each end of the optical link is an electrical-to optical (E/O) or optical-to-electrical(O/E) interface that converts data between their electrical and optical formats. For parallel optical interconnects,these interfaces consist of discrete or monolithic optical transmitter and receiver arrays. These interconnectionsare generally passive, providing only a fixed path between selected processors on each board. For a flexibile
Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using quadruple hamstring

Abstract ACL reconstruction using quadruple hamstring has become more popular in recent years. Relatively lower morbidityand better cosmetic results, as well as improved biomechanical properties, have increased the use of hamstring grafts. This article will focus on the current concepts and techniques of ACL reconstruction using quadruple hamstring. We have also included the description of 3 popular fixation methods for quadruple hamstring, namely, bioscrew, EndoButton with sutures, and cross-pin technique. The rationale and concepts of each fixation technique will be discussed.
Scheduling experiments on the space station

Abstract The objective of this research is to schedule laboratory experiments on the space station in a power starved environment. Experiments on the space station will compete for electric power and other scarce resources. A principal investigator for an experiment may submit numerical preferences for different periods in which his/her experiment can be started. Weighted preferences are computed by multiplying these preferences by a numerical priority assigned to the experiment by a space station management committee. The scheduling problem is formulated as an integer programming problem with zero/one variables. The objective is to maximize the sum of the weighted preferences for the start periods for all the experiments. The constraints to the scheduling problem ensure that (1) an experiment can begin in at most one period, (2) an experiment of known duration will operate in consecutive periods, and (3) the sum of the average power consumed by all experiments in each period will not exceed the total average power available to the laboratory module in that period. Numerical results are obtained for a small example problem involving two experiments over a planning horizon of ten periods. The problem is solved on an IRM PC using a Fortran matrix generator program followed by a zero/one code obtained from a textbook.
Response to "CD8 subunit expression by plasmacytoid dendritic cells is variable, and does not define stable subsets".

Response to “CD8 subunit expression by plasmacytoid dendritic cells is variable, and does not define stable subsets”
Utilization of calcium phosphates for microbial growth at alkaline pH

Abstract A strain of aerobic yeast isolated from marine environment, and a number of spore-forming bacteria isolated from soil and from sewage, were grown on defined media at pH 8 containing various calcium phosphates as sole sources of phosphorus. Direct measurements confirm that, at this pH, the concentrations of inorganic phosphate in solution, released through the dissociation of the calcium phosphates, are more than adequate for the microbial phosphate uptake systems to function efficiently. This conclusion is supported by the observation that growth is even more rapid when the calcium phosphates were enclosed in dialysis bags and thus not in direct contact with the micro-organisms.
Degradation of cholesterol crystals in phospholipids

Based on previous studies from this laboratory that demonstrated degradation of cholesterol crystals ingested by macrophages in a cell culture system and indicated that intracellular phospholipids could play an important role in mobilization of crystalline cholesterol, the role of each of the three major intracellular phospholipid species in degradation of crystals is further explored. Fluorescently labeled cholesterol crystals are incubated with phospholipids over a period of 5 d. Morphological changes in crystals are monitored using digital imaging fluorescence microscopy, fluorescence redistribution after photobleaching, confocal microscopy, and epifluorescent and phase contrast microscopy. Results clearly demonstrate that all three phospholipids are able to mobilize crystalline cholesterol. However, the mechanisms by which they exert mobilization are different. Sphingomyelin and phosphatidylcholine are found to cause gradual and uniform dissolution of crystals, more or less preserving their original shape. Phosphatidylethanolamine appear to penetrate into the crystal, causing its fragmentation and solubilization. In the mixture of all three phospholipids representing the composition found in macrophages, both of the described mechanisms are working simultaneously.
PCR-I-High Resolution Positron Tomograph Using Analog Coding

PCR-I has been designed and built to demonstrate the concept of analog coding to provide high resolution positron tomographic images without interpolative motion. The instrument uses 360 bismuth germanate (BGO) detectors coupled through a lucite light pipe to 90 phototubes. The measured resolution at the center is 4.8 mm. A straightforward extension of the concept will lead to a tomograph capable of obtaining resolution below 3 mm for low energy positron emitters. The sensitivity of PCR-I is 46 000/s for a 20 cm diameter phantom uniformly filled with 1 μCi/cc of a positron emitter. Parameters related to dead time and random and prompt scatter coincidences have been studied. Phantom measurements demonstrate the resolution and uniformity of PCR-I. Animal studies carried out to date include 18F in rat skeleton, 11C-palmitate and 11C-labeled red cells in dog heart and blood flow, and blood volume in monkey brain using C15O2 and C15O.
Three-dimensional analysis of simply supported laminated cylindrical shells with arbitrary thickness

The three dimensional displacements and stresses of laminated shells are determined by a lamina synthesis procedure that is based on Fourier expansion and a spatial state space formulation
The National High Magnetic Field Laboratory

We describe two of the main user facilities of the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory (NHMFL): (a) the General Purpose DC Field Facility with nine resistive and hybrid magnet stations with continuous fields between 20 and 45 T, and (b) the CIMAR Facilities with 17 spectrometers for the NMR Spectroscopy and Imaging Program, the Fourier Transform ICR Mass Spectrometry Program and the Electron Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy Program. The facilities are located in Tallahassee, and Gainesville, FL. Members of the worldwide science and engineering communities can access NHMFL facilities, generally without cost, through a peer-reviewed proposal process.
Interaction of ultraviolet laser radiation with a xecl laser

A significant enhancement (up to 30%) in the output pulse energy of a XeCl laser (λ = 308 nm) is observed when ultraviolet-laser radiation at 193, 248, or 351 nm is injected into the XeCl resonator before the emission of the 308-nm pulse. In each case, it appears that the enhancement hinges on the presence of impurity molecules (e.g., hydrocarbons, N2, O2) in the XeCl-laser–gas mixture. For λinjected = 193 and 248 nm, the external radiation appears to photoionize the impurity directly, whereas, at 351 nm, the impurity is photoexcited and subsequently ionized by the discharge. Strong absorption of 248-nm radiation by the XeCl active medium is observed during and following the XeCl discharge—an effect that is also attributed to impurities.
Transport model with quasipions

We extend the normal transport model to include the medium effect on pions by treating them as quasiparticles. The property of the quasipion is determined using the delta-hole model. Modeling heavy-ion collisions at intermediate energies with the new transport equations, we find that it leads to an enhanced production of pions with low kinetic energies. This gives a plausible explanation for the observed enhancement of soft pions in the Bevalac experiments.
Has the European Community GSP increased LDC exports

Hypothesized differences in mean changes in shares of European Community (EC) import markets over the period 1976-84 are tested for each of 36 less-developed countries. Means are calculated for cases in which MFN tariffs are re-established and for cases in which duty-free treatment is restored under the EC generalized system of preferences. They are compared with means for cases in which tariffs remained constant. We attempt to control for both product-specific and cyclical influences on imports. In contrast to some previous results, our findings suggest that denial (restoration) of preferential treatment, i.e. a tariff increase (decrease), has its expected negative (positive) effect.
RESPONSIVE-TO-ANTAGONIST1, a Menkes/Wilson Disease–Related Copper Transporter, Is Required for Ethylene Signaling in Arabidopsis

Ethylene is an important regulator of plant growth. We identified an Arabidopsis mutant, responsive-to-antagonist1 (ran1), that shows ethylene phenotypes in response to treatment with trans-cyclooctene, a potent receptor antagonist. Genetic epistasis studies revealed an early requirement for RAN1 in the ethylene pathway. RAN1 was cloned and found to encode a protein with similarity to copper-transporting P-type ATPases, including the human Menkes/Wilson proteins and yeast Ccc2p. Expression of RAN1 complemented the defects of a ccc2delta mutant, demonstrating its function as a copper transporter. Transgenic CaMV 35S::RAN1 plants showed constitutive expression of ethylene responses, due to cosuppression of RAN1. These results provide an in planta demonstration that ethylene signaling requires copper and reveal that RAN1 acts by delivering copper to create functional hormone receptors.
West Nile virus infection and immunity

West Nile virus (WNV) is an emerging neurotropic flavivirus that is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. WNV has disseminated broadly in the Western hemisphere and now poses a significant public health risk. The continuing spread of WNV, combined with the lack of specific therapeutics or vaccines to combat or prevent infection, imparts a pressing need to identify the viral and host processes that control the outcome of and immunity to WNV infection. Here, we provide an overview of recent research that has revealed the virus-host interface controlling WNV infection and immunity.
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor/IL-6 fusion protein (Hyper IL-6) effects on the neonatal mouse brain: possible role for IL-6 trans-signaling in brain development and functional neurobehavioral outcomes

Adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes are linked to perinatal production of inflammatory mediators, including interleukin 6 (IL-6). While a pivotal role for maternal elevation in IL-6 has been established in determining neurobehavioral outcomes in the offspring and considered the primary target mediating the fetal inflammatory response, questions remain as to the specific actions of IL-6 on the developing brain. CD-1 male mice received a subdural injection of the bioactive fusion protein, hyper IL-6 (HIL-6) on postnatal-day (PND)4 and assessed from preweaning until adulthood. Immunohistochemical evaluation of astrocytes and microglia and mRNA levels for pro-inflammatory cytokines and host response genes indicated no evidence of an acute neuroinflammatory injury response. HIL-6 accelerated motor development and increased reactivity to stimulation and number of entries in a light/dark chamber, decreased ability to learn to withhold a response in passive avoidance, and effected deficits in social novelty behavior. No changes were observed in motor activity, pre-pulse startle inhibition, or learning and memory in the Morris water maze or radial arm maze, as have been reported for models of more severe developmental neuroinflammation. In young animals, mRNA levels for MBP and PLP/DM20 decreased and less complexity of MBP processes in the cortex was evident by immunohistochemistry. The non-hydroxy cerebroside fraction of cerebral lipids was increased. These results provide evidence for selective effects of IL-6 signaling, particularly trans-signaling, in the developing brain in the absence of a general neuroinflammatory response. These data contribute to our further understanding of the multiple aspects of IL-6 signaling in the developing brain.
Isolation and characterization of a novel promoter for the bovine growth hormone receptor gene.

The use of alternative promoters represents an important mechanism for the regulation of growth hormone receptor (GHR) gene expression. Two promoters have been isolated previously for the GHR gene: the P1 promoter that drives liver-specific expression, and the P2 promoter that drives ubiquitous expression. In the present study, we isolated a third GHR promoter termed P3. The P3 promoter was GC-rich and TATA-less. The P3 promoter was able to drive the expression of a luciferase reporter gene in cell lines Hep G2, PLC/PRF/5, and BHK-21. In vivo, the P3 promoter initiated transcription from two major sites in exon 1C of the GHR gene in many tissues. In the adult bovine liver, the P3-transcribed GHR mRNA represented only 10% of the total GHR mRNA pool. In non-hepatic tissues such as kidney, skeletal muscle, mammary gland, and uterus, P3-transcribed GHR mRNA represented 30–40% of the total GHR mRNA pool. Within the bovine GHR gene, the P3 promoter was located immediately downstream from the P2 promoter. In transfected cells, the P2 promoter served as an enhancer for the P3 promoter. Existence and co-regulation of two ubiquitous promoters may be a mechanism for achieving a high level of expression of the GHR gene in multiple tissues.
The U3 small nucleolar ribonucleoprotein functions in the first step of preribosomal RNA processing

The first cleavage in mammalian pre-rRNA maturation occurs near the 5' end within the 5' external transcribed spacer. Using mouse cell extracts, we show that this processing is abolished by micrococcal nuclease pretreatment. Autoantibodies that recognize the U3, U8, and U13 snRNPs (anti-fibrillarin) deplete processing activity from the extract and selectively immunoprecipitate both rRNA substrates and processing products from the reaction. Specific involvement of the U3 snRNP is demonstrated by native gel electrophoresis of the processing reaction followed by Northern blotting and by oligonucleotide-directed RNAase H abolition of processing activity. Our identification of U3 function is discussed with respect to the molecular basis of pre-rRNA recognition by the U3 snRNP, possible roles of U3 and other nucleolar snRNPs in rRNA processing, and the morphological organization of the nucleolus and the ribosomal transcription complex.
Streams in Catskill Mountains still susceptible to acid rain

Precipitation in North America has become less acidic over the past 2 decades because of reduced power plant emissions and compliance with the Clean Air Act Amendments [Sirois, 19937rsqb;. The 1990 Clean Air Act Amendments were developed to reduce the acidity of sensitive surface waters, which are primarily in upland forested environments, where acidified waters and associated high aluminum concentrations are toxic to many species of aquatic flora and fauna [Schindler et al., 1989]. Our studies show that in spite of less acidic precipitation, the buffering capacity of streams in upland forests of the Catskill Mountains in southeastern New York has not increased in recent years. These data suggest that long-term leaching by acid rain has lowered exchangeable calcium ion concentrations in the soil in upland areas, where the underlying, slow-weathering bedrock provides an inadequate supply of cations to neutralize acidity.
Multiple Imputation for Correcting Verification Bias

In the case in which all subjects are screened using a common test and only a subset of these subjects are tested using a golden standard test, it is well documented that there is a risk for bias, called verification bias. When the test has only two levels (e.g. positive and negative) and we are trying to estimate the sensitivity and specificity of the test, we are actually constructing a confidence interval for a binomial proportion. Since it is well documented that this estimation is not trivial even with complete data, we adopt multiple imputation framework for verification bias problem. We propose several imputation procedures for this problem and compare different methods of estimation. We show that our imputation methods are better than the existing methods with regard to nominal coverage and confidence interval length.
Restructuring health systems for an era of prolonged austerity: an essay by Richard B Saltman and Zachary Cahn

Richard B Saltman and Zachary Cahn argue that efficiency savings are unlikely to enable health systems to cope with long term budget constraints and suggest that countries need to shift responsibility for substantial parts of health activity away from the public sector