cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Weddings and pornography: The cultural performance of sex

Weddings and pornography are cultural performances. This essay analyzes these performances, not as cultural opposites, but as mirror doubles, complementary and necessary to each other to solidify social organization through control of sex. Their complementarity emerges from the nexus of church, public performance, and state as both weddings and pornography make, fake, and break cultural insiders and outsiders, norms for sexual and social behavior, and frames of belief and play. This essay then examines the term “performance” as utilized by various camps in the pornography debates as a means to condemn, embrace, or erase sex in the material practices and discourses of pornography. Ultimately, sex is the sine qua non of both weddings and pornography, and its performance, whether socially sanctioned or culturally condemned, creates and maintains order through control of sex. Against this necessary backdrop of control, performance is always imbued with transformative possibilities, for it both maintains the c...
LOWERING OF BRAIN SEROTONIN LEVEL BY CHLORAMPHETAMINES.

Abstract 4-Chloroamphetamine and several structurally similar compounds lowered serotonin level in the whole brain of rats without lowering the level of norepinephrine. Relationships between chemical structure of chloroamphetamines and their effects on brain serotonin level are presented. There was no difference between the effects of dextrorotatory and levorotatory isomers of 4-chloromethamphetamine. 4-Chloro-amphetamine lowered serotonin but not norepinephrine level in the septum-diencephalon-midbrain area of dog brain. 4-Chloroamphetamine did not inhibit tryptophan hydroxylation in rat liver or bacterial preparations nor did it inhibit the uptake of 14 C-5-hydroxytryptophan into rat brain. The lowering of brain serotonin level does not appear to be a result of decreased serotonin synthesis but may be due to an unusual type of release of serotonin.
Automated task-level activity analysis through fusion of real time location sensors and worker's thoracic posture data

Abstract Knowledge of workforce productivity and activity is crucial for determining whether a construction project can be accomplished on time and within budget. Significant work has been done on improving and assessing productivity and activity at task, project, or industry levels. Task level productivity and activity analysis are used extensively within the construction industry for various purposes, including cost estimating, claim evaluation, and day-to-day project management. The assessment is mostly performed through visual observations and after-the-fact analyses even though previous studies show automatic translation of operations data into productivity information and provide spatial information of resources for specific construction operations. An original approach is presented that automatically assesses labor activity. Using data fusion of spatio-temporal and workers' thoracic posture data, a framework was developed for identifying and understanding the worker's activity type over time. This information is used to perform automatic work sampling that is expected to facilitate real-time productivity assessment.
New alternating conductive heteropolymers

Abstract Reaction of pyrroles and benzoquinones under the influence of polyphosphoric acid produces black powders which are intrinsically semiconductive. Use of alternating donor and acceptor moieties in a polymer chain is proposed as a method for achieving “self-doping” polymers.
Angiotensin II action in isolated microperfused rabbit afferent arterioles is modulated by flow

Angiotensin II action in isolated microperfused rabbit afferent arterioles is modulated by flow. We have recently presented evidence that endogenous nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandins (PGs) modulate angiotensin II (Ang II) action in microperfused afferent arterioles (Af-Arts). Because flow may be a physiological stimulus of endothelial release of NO and PGs, we tested the hypothesis that flow through the lumen of the Af-Art stimulates the endothelium to produce NO and PGs, which in turn modulate the action of Ang II. We microdissected the terminal segment of an interlobular artery together with two Af-Arts, their glomeruli and efferent arterioles (Ef-Art). The two Af-Arts were perfused simultaneously from the interlobular artery, while one Ef-Art was occluded. Since the arteriolar perfusate contained 5% albumin, oncotic pressure built up in the glomerulus with the occluded Ef-Art and opposed the force of filtration, resulting in little or no flow through the corresponding Af-Art. Thus this preparation allowed us to observe Ang II action in free-flow and non-flow Af-Arts simultaneously. Ang II-induced constriction was weaker in free-flow than non-flow Af-Arts, with the luminal diameter decreasing by 8 ± 2% and 23 ± 3% at 10 -9 m, respectively ( P P
A gas chromatographic method for the mycotoxin penicillic acid

Abstract Penicillic acid was satisfactorily resolved by gas chromatography either as the trimethylsilyl derivative or in the underivatized form using 3% of Dexsil 300, 3% of OV-17 or 3% of OV-25 liquid phase on Gas-Chrom Q. The limit of quantitation was approximately 25 ng. Extraction and detection of penicillic acid together with another important mycotoxin, patulin, was demonstrated in moldy corn. In addition; a preliminary clean-up procedure using thin-layer chromatography is described for crude extracts, which improves resolution and sensitivity in the gas chromatographic analysis of penicillic acid.
Purification of specific adenovirus 2 RNAs by preparative hybridization and selective thermal elution

Abstract A method is described for the preparation isolation of highly purified adenovirus RNA species. Cytoplasmic RNAs from cells infected with adenovirus 2 were selected by hybridization to viral DNA fragments bound to nitrocellulose membranes. A series of washes at elevated temperatures (50-70 degrees) determined conditions at which the true hybrids were stable but non-specific RNA was removed. This temperature has been found to correlate with the base composition of the DNA fragment. After washing at this predetermined temperature, the specific RNA was eluted at 85 degrees. The purity of the eluted RNA was greater than 95% as determined by size, sequence specificity, and template activity in an in vitro protein synthesizing system. The method described should be generally useful for purification of specific RNAs.
Load-induced debonding of FRP composites applied to reinforced concrete

Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites are widely used to increase the flexural and shear capacity of reinforced concrete (RC) elements. One potential disadvantage is that strengthened surfaces are no longer visible and cracks or delaminations that result from excessive loading or fatigue may go undetected. This research investigated thermal imaging techniques for monitoring and evaluating load-induced delamination of FRP composites applied to small scale RC beams. Two beams (3.5 in x 4.5 in x 58 in) were loaded monotonically to failure. Infrared thermography (IRT) inspections were performed at various load levels through failure using a composite phase imaging technique. Two similar beams were tested in fatigue and periodic IRT inspections were performed at 50,000-cycle intervals. Individual phase values for each pixel were designated as "well-bonded", "suspect" or "unbonded" to indicate the quality of FRP bond. Suspect areas included regions of excess thickened-epoxy tack-coat and smaller installation defects in the unloaded specimens. The long-term objective of this research is to develop a practical framework for conducting quantitative IRT inspections of FRP composites applied to RC and incorporating these results into acceptance criteria for new installations and predictions for the remaining service life of in-service FRP systems. This method may also offer insight into the necessity for repairs to in-service systems.
Assessment of acute dysynchrony induced by multisite pacing in pediatric patients

clinical course of these infants is influenced by the LQT subtype, age and gender. In order to evaluate the individual risk in this group we analyzed 68 children (29 males, 43%) aged 0-16 years with LQTS. In 97% we were able to identify a LQTS mutation (LQT1 24, LQT2 23, LQT3 8, LQT5 1, LQT6 3). 7/68 (10.3%) were identified as JLNS patients (JLN1 5, JLN2 2). Of these 68 patients, 55 (81%) were symptomatic with the highest percentage in LQT2 patients (91%). The most prevalent symptom was syncope in 60%, followed by documented VT/TdP and aborted cardiac arrest with 42% and 36%, respectively. SCD as the primary manifestation was found in 6 cases (11%). 47% (26/55) had their first cardiac event below the age of 8. LQT3 patients (n 8) were highly symptomatic with recurrent TdP (50%), and aborted cardiac arrest (50%). However sudden cardiac death was highest in LQT2 pts. with 22 % (5/23). The mean QTc in lead II was longest in carriers of the SCN5A gene (LQT3) with 572 114ms, followed by JLNS(557 73ms) and LQT1 (502 79ms) patients without reaching statistically significance between these groups. 86% (47/55) of the symptomatic and 66% (8/12) of the asymptomatic patients received therapy. Betablocker therapy was the treatment of choice, receiving 73% of the symptomatic and 75% of the asymptomatic children. PM and ICD were implanted in symptomatic children in 5% (3/55) and 18% (10/55), respectively. 7% (4/55) of the symptomatic patients received no therapy at all, despite the fact that treated children experienced in 42% (20/47) LQT related cardiac events.Over 80% of the genotyped LQT children were symptomatic with almost half of them developing the first symptoms before their 8. birthday. Follow-up data indicate that recurrent cardiac events are frequent in LQT treated children. Clinical and molecular screening in suspected LQT children is a helpful tool to identify patients at risk. Adequate prophylactic treatment is mandatory to prevent (further) cardiac events.
Autoimmunity: polyclonal activation or antigen induction?

Abstract Two conflicting views of autoimmunity picture autoantibody production as the result of either polyclonal activation or the stimulation of a response to a specific autoantigen. Here, Roman Dziarski summarizes the evidence supporting each model and highlights the inability of either model alone to account satisfactorily for autoimmunity. He proposes the consolidation of the two views into one unified theory.
Mechanical-tactile stimulation (MTS) intervention in a neonatal stress model alters adult adipose tissue deposition and prevents hyperinsulinemia in male rats

Abstract Preterm infants are exposed to numerous stressors during hospitalization and by term corrected gestational age they have lower body weight but a greater proportion of total body as well as abdominal visceral adipose tissue (VAT) accumulation. Greater abdominal VAT stores have a known association with metabolic syndrome. Mechanical-tactile stimulation (MTS) improves modulation of stress response in both humans and rodents. We hypothesize that MTS, administered during an established model of neonatal stress, would decrease stress-driven adiposity and prevent associated metabolic imbalances in adult rats. Neonatal stress, administered to rat pups from postnatal days 5 to P9, consisted of needle puncture and hypoxic/hyperoxic challenge during 60 min of maternal separation (STRESS; n = 20). Mechanical-tactile stimulation (MTS; n = 20) was administered to rat pups for 10 min during maternal separation in the stress protocol. Control animals received standard care (CTL; n = 20). MRI measured adult (P120) abdominal total fat mass, subcutaneous (SAT) and visceral adipose tissue (VAT). Body weight and fasting serum adiponectin, leptin, glucose, insulin, and corticosterone were also measured. STRESS results in elevated VAT/SAT ratio compared to CTL but lower abdominal total fat mass and abdominal SAT. STRESS males experience hyperinsulinemia. Both STRESS and MTS had elevated leptin with lower adiponectin and corticosterone compared to CTL. In summary, neonatal stress promotes greater abdominal VAT accumulation and, in males, caused hyperinsulinemia and hypoadiponectinemia. Importantly, MTS normalized the VAT/SAT ratio and prevented hyperinsulinemia. We speculate that MTS ameliorates some of the negative metabolic consequences of early life perturbations due to neonatal stress exposure.
Wood grain patterns at branch junctions: modeling and implications

We apply a recent model of wood grain pattern formation to the junction between two tree branches. In model simulations, the export of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) from a branch into the junction is necessary to maintain the continuity between the grain pattern of the branch and the grain of the subjacent stem. Increased IAA export corresponds to a larger effect on the overall grain pattern. Conversely, if IAA export stops, the grain pattern diverts around the branch. These results do not depend on specific values for the model parameters and appear to be quite general. Since long-range water transport is largely parallel to the wood grain, greater IAA export from a branch is expected to give improved access to the water resources of the tree. IAA export thus emerges as a likely regulator of branch vigor. In this way, the basipetal flux of IAA through a branch, and its morphological consequences at branch junctions, may play an important role in several aspects of tree form.
Role of the Counselor with Computers

T he computer is an invention of unparalleled significance. In the last decade several innovations have been heralded as having the power to change how we live. Probably none, however, has the potential of the computer to affect our lives in general and education in particular. Certainly part of the reason for the tremendous impact of the computer on education is the time of its arrival. Education is currently under attack from dissatisfied constitutencies who are demanding that students acquire a great deal more from their schooling. Postsecondary education, after a decade of emphasis on equity, is now being called upon to place greater emphasis on excellence and achievement. New strategies for educating both adolescents and adults are extending learning beyond school and college walls to a variety of self-managed educational experiences. These cries for greater excellence in education and improved student performance are occurring at a time when the costs of education are rising rapidly. The demand and the need for a quantum leap in improving education is so great that if the computer did not exist, something akin to it in potential, power, and impact would have been invented. The computer is having a strong influence on school districts across the country, on state educational plans, and on policy pronouncements for both public and postsecondary education. The clamor for the computerization of education is becoming a din. Yet even before computers have become established in the educational enterprise, some people are decrying both their potential and the way they are being used. Are computers merely “electronic page-turners,” or do they have the capacity to affect significantly how students and adults learn? Will school systems, training institutions, and organizations be able to use them to change and enhance the learning process? These questions are paramount. The difficulty in answering them is compounded by the fact that the real development and contribution of computers is only now emerging. The “computational powers equivalent to that of present-day super computers . . . will be available in a micro-process system for under $100 by 1990” (Computers in Education, 1983). Clearly, any discussion about the role of the counselor with computers needs to focus not on present activities or past experience but on possible and probable developments for computers and their impact and influence on counseling and human services in the near future.
Monitoring and caring for breast cancer patients with post-treatment problems: what can we do?

253 ISSN 1758-1923 10.2217/BMT.12.45 © 2012 Future Medicine Ltd Breast Cancer Manage. (2012) 1(4), 253–256 Breast cancer patients that have completed prescribed therapies are often faced with post-treatment problems. Depending on the treatment, common sequelae include: lymphedema, postmastectomy pain syndrome, brachial plexopathy, pneumonitis, secondary malignancies, ovarian failure, myelosuppression, neuropathy, bone health issues, reduced functional status, thrombosis and cardiomyopathy, among others. These physical issues often arise in conjunction with far reaching psycho social, emotional, cognitive, spiritual and economic concerns for this population. Complications due to treatment are highly prevalent in all cancers with 98% of cancer survivors reporting at least one problem associated with their treatment [1]. Late effects of breast cancer treatment were recently investigated in a study that followed 287 breast cancer survivors for 6 years. In this follow-up study, which specifically assessed complications amenable to rehabilitation interventions (postsurgical complications, skin or tissue reaction to radiation therapy, upperbody symptoms, lymphedema, >10% weight gain, fatigue and upper-quadrant function), the proportion of breast cancer survivors who still reported facing at least one of these issues was greater than 50% at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months – and even at 6 years [2]. One challenge in meeting the unique and complex medical and non-medical needs of breast cancer survivors is co ordination of care. Many of these needs remain unmet in the current healthcare system, precisely because coordination of care for cancer survivors remains problematic [3,4]. The Institute of Medicine and National Research Council recognize prevention, surveillance, intervention and co ordination as key components to survivorship care. Breast cancer survivors also report a need for better coordination of survivorship care; Mao et al. surveyed 300 breast cancer survivors on their perception of care and only 28% believed their primary care physician (PCP) and oncologist communicated well [5]. With coordination lacking and a projected shortfall of oncologists, other relationships need to be established for breast cancer survivors to address their health problems [6,7]. What can we do to care for breast cancer patients with post-treatment problems? Given the litany of complications due to
Nuclear translocation of viral Jun but not of cellular Jun is cell cycle dependent.

Abstract The Jun protein is a transcription factor of the AP-1 complex, and it is concentrated in the cell nucleus. While the cellular Jun protein is transported into the nucleus in a cell-cycle-independent fashion, the oncogenic viral version of the protein translocates into the nucleus most rapidly during the G2 phase of the cell cycle and only slowly during G1 and S phases. This cell cycle dependence of nuclear transport has been mapped to the cysteine to serine mutation in the carboxyl-terminal portion of viral Jun. We have identified a complex nuclear translocation signal located in the basic region of viral Jun. This signal has the sequence ASKSRKRKL. A peptide of this sequence synthesized in vitro and conjugated to IgG can mediate cell-cycle-dependent translocation of the microinjected conjugate from the cytoplasm into the nucleus. The nuclear translocation signal has two functional domains. The pentapeptide RKRKL is sufficient as a cell-cycle-independent nuclear address. The entire signal is needed for cell-cycle-dependent nuclear translocation. The amino-terminal tetrapeptide contains the cysteine to serine substitution responsible for cell cycle dependence. Deletion analysis of the Jun protein suggests that the nuclear translocation signal identified in the basic region is required for nuclear translocation of Jun and may be the only such signal in the Jun molecule.
Diet of the Eastern Mudminnow (Umbra pygmaea DeKay) from Two Geographically Distinct Populations within the North American Native Range

Umbra pygmaea (Eastern Mudminnow) is a freshwater species common in Atlantic slope coastal lowlands from southern New York to northern Florida and is typical of slow-moving, mud-bottomed, and highly vegetated streams, swamps, and small ponds. We examined its seasonal food habits at the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), NJ and at the Croatan National Forest, NC. A total of 147 Eastern Mudminnow from 35–112 mm TL and 190 Eastern Mudminnow from 22–89 mm TL were examined from these sites, respectively. At both locations, we found it to be a bottom-feeding generalist that consumes cladocerans, ostracods, chironomid larvae, coleopteran larvae, and other insects and crustaceans. Ostracods were most common in the diet at the Great Swamp NWR and occurred in 62% ± 2.5% of the stomachs with food. At Croatan National Forest, chironomid larvae were most common and occurred in 66.7% ± 15.8% of the stomachs. There were no statistically significant differences in diet composition between the sites during the winter, summer, and fall. However, when compared on an annual basis, Jaccard's Index (θJ = 0.636, P = 0.05) suggested that the diet at the two study sites was significantly different. While we identified the same major food groups at both locations, the utilization of these food groups varied seasonally. Detritus was a major stomach content at both locations throughout the year. We also documented cannibalism during the summer season at both locations. The seasonal diet of the Eastern Mudminnow was similar to that of Umbra limi (Central Mudminnow) and Umbra krameri (European Mudminnow). Our findings here are the first quantitative examinations of seasonal differences in the diet of the Eastern Mudminnow within its native North American range.
Comparison of thresholds for behavioral and electrical responses to cortical electrical stimulation in cats.

Abstract Cats with stimulating and recording electrodes implanted in the prepyriform cortex were trained to press a bar for milk upon electrical stimulation of the lateral olfactory tract. Thresholds were determined for the cortical evoked potential and for a conditional response elicited by the same electrical stimulus. Threshold for the evoked potential, defined as stimulus voltage for minimum detectable responses, varied with method of detection. Threshold for electrical responses evoked by single shocks and recorded in an ink tracing was higher than that for responses evoked by trains of stimuli and recorded with an oscilloscope. Both exceeded threshold for responses evoked by low-frequency stimulation and recorded by means of an average response computer. Threshold for the bar-press response (after prolonged overtraining) corresponded on the average to the middle threshold, implying that the level of activity induced by stimulation had to approach or exceed the amount of synchronized spontaneous activity for a behavioral response to occur. Conditioning took place after orientation to the stimulus, which was achieved in this experiment by intense electrical stimulation just below threshold for seizure. Reduction of behavioral threshold to electrical threshold required additional training. Fully trained cats did not respond to externally generated fields of current grossly resembling prepyriform evoked activity, implying that large-scale extraneuronal currents (as compared with current distributions at the cellular level) were of no functional importance.
The influence of higher harmonics on vortex pairing in an axisymmetric mixing layer

Strong forcing was used to produce vortex pairing in a submerged axisymmetric water jet. Phase-averaged hot-wire measurements were combined with phase-averaged flow visualization to identify the relevant nonlinear interactions. The leading resonant interaction was not a subharmonic resonance. Instead, it was a triad resonance involving the subharmonic, the fundamental and the 3/2 harmonic. The profound influence of higher harmonics on the amplification of the fundamental and subharmonic was demonstrated in a systematic way by successive truncation of the Fourier series representation of the excitation waveform.
Dermal melanoma with schwannoma-like differentiation in a brown bullhead catfish (Ictalurus nebulosus)

A dermal melanoma with histologic similarities to mammalian melanocytic schwannomas was diagnosed in a wild-caught brown bullhead catfish (Ictalurus nebulosus). The diagnosis was based on cytologic, histopathologic, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural findings. The neoplasm protruded from the cutaneous surface of the dorsal midline immediately caudal to the dorsal fin, was diffusely black and focally ulcerated, and was attached to the underlying skin by a broad-based stalk. Cytologically, the tumor was composed of a monomorphic population of melanophores, the melanin-producing and storing cells within the dermis and epidermis of fish that are partially responsible for rapid color changes. Histopathologic examination of the neoplasm revealed an unencapsulated, well-circumscribed, moderately cellular neoplasm composed of 2 distinct cell populations: spindle cells arranged in a "herringbone" pattern and numerous melanophores. The spindle cells had scant bipolar eosinophilic cytoplasm, with small centrally located vesicular nuclei; nucleoli were not seen. The histologic appearance was similar to that described for mammalian melanocytic schwannomas. Immunohistochemically, the spindle cells exhibited positive cytoplasmic staining for S-100 protein but were negative for vimentin, neurofilament protein, and glial fibrillary acidic protein. Ultrastructurally, the tumor consisted of neoplastic spindle cells with rudimentary cell junctions, actin bundles, and few melanosomes and melanophores with abundant intracytoplasmic melanosomes.
Allelic variation and differential expression of methionine-rich δ-zeins in maize inbred lines B73 and W23a1

The sulfur-amino-acid-rich delta-zeins of maize ( Zea mays L.) are represented by 18-kDa and 10-kDa proteins. We have cloned a novel 11-kDa methionine-rich delta-zein from developing endosperm of the inbred line W23a1. The nucleotide sequence of this new delta-zein is identical to the published 10-kDa delta-zein, except for an insertion of 18 nucleotides between +316 and +333 bp from the translation start site. Antibodies raised against the recombinant 18-kDa delta-zein recognized both the 18-kDa and 10-kDa delta-zein from total seed protein extracts of different maize inbred lines. Western blot analysis revealed differences in the levels of the delta-zeins in different inbred lines and some of the inbred lines lacked either the 10-kDa or the 18-kDa delta-zeins. Northern blot analysis revealed temporal differences in the RNA transcript levels of the 11-kDa and 18-kDa delta-zeins between B73 and W23a1. Such differences were not evident on Western blot analysis where similar protein accumulation profiles were seen for both lines. Immunostaining of paraffin sections of developing maize endosperm with the 18-kDa delta-zein antibodies revealed specific labeling of protein bodies found in the first few starchy layers from the aleurone layer. Electron-microscopic observation of thin-sections of B73 and W23a1 endosperm cells confirmed the presence of recently discovered novel, vacuole-like structures in these inbred lines. Immunogold labeling studies revealed that the delta-zeins were localized in the endoplasmic-reticulum-derived protein bodies and showed no preferential gold particle labeling over either the light or electron-dense material found in these protein bodies.
Effects of high-pressure processing on Toxoplasma gondii tissue cysts in ground pork

Ingestion of Toxoplasma gondii tissue cysts can result in severe disease in immunocompromised individuals and pregnant women. Treatment of meat and meat products to eliminate viable T. gondii tissue cysts would provide a means to protect consumers. In this study, we examined the effects of high-pressure processing (HPP) on ground pork containing viable tissue cysts of the VEG strain of T. gondii. Ground pork containing tissue cysts was exposed to 400, 300, 200, 100, or 0 MPa treatment for 30, 60, or 90 sec in a commercial HPP unit. The HPP-treated ground pork was subjected to acid-pepsin digestion and bioassayed in mice. The results of the mouse bioassay revealed that none of the mice inoculated with tissue cysts exposed to 400 or 300 MPa became infected, whereas all mice inoculated with tissue cysts exposed to 200, 100, or 0 MPa became infected with T. gondii regardless of exposure time. Results indicate that HPP treatment of ground pork with 300 MPa of pressure will render tissue cysts of T. gondii nonviable and make pork safe for human consumption.
Advances in Software Design Methods for Concurrent, Real-Time and Distributed Applications

This paper describes the advances in software design methods for concurrent, real-time and distributed applications from structured methods for centralized systems to distributed, object-oriented, component-based and service-oriented systems and product lines. The influence of software architectural and design patterns is also described. Current challenges for designing service-oriented architectures, adaptive software design, and evolutionary software design are also discussed.
The role of autolysis loop in determining the specificity of coagulation proteases

We recently demonstrated that the substitution of the autolysis loop (residues 143 to 154 in the chymotrypsin numbering system) of activated protein C (APC) with the corresponding loop of factor Xa (fXa) renders the APC mutant (APC/fX143-154) susceptible to inhibition by antithrombin (AT) in the presence of pentasaccharide. Our recent results further indicated, that in addition to an improvement in the reactivity of APC/fX143-154 with AT, both the amidolytic and anti-factor Va activities of the mutant APC have also been significantly increased. Since the autolysis loop of APC is five residues longer than the autolysis loop of fXa, it could not be ascertained whether this loop in the mutant APC specifically interacts with the activated conformation of AT or if a shorter autolysis loop is responsible for a global improvement in the catalytic activity of the mutant protease. To answer this question, we prepared another APC mutant in which the autolysis loop of the protease was replaced with the corresponding loop of trypsin (APC/Tryp143-154). Unlike an approximately 500-fold improvement in the reactivity of APC/fX143-154 with AT in the presence of pentasaccharide, the reactivity of APC/Tryp143-154 with the serpin was improved approximately 10-fold. These results suggest that both the length and structure of residues of the autolysis loop are critical for the specificity of the coagulation protease interaction with AT. Further factor Va inactivation studies with the APC mutants revealed a similar role for the autolysis loop of APC in the interaction with its natural substrate.
Streaming versus batch processing of sensor data in a hazardous weather detection system

We present several discrete-time Markov queuing models to compare the performance of batch versus streaming processing of sensor data in a weather detection and monitoring system architecture. The first model assumes independent arrivals. The remaining mod- els assume correlated arrivals and demonstrate how dif- ferent scan strategies across multiple elevations impact system performance. We also show how the models are useful in dimensioning the computational resources of the system given workload arrival characteristics. We apply the models to several hypothetical scenarios with varying weather feature arrival and processing rates. We also eval- uate our models using processing runtime data obtained by running two NEXRAD algorithms on weather data from six airports. Our results show that for this particular application and reasonable system utilizations, delaying processing start time to perform batch processing does not adversely affect system performance or require significant, additional computational resources. More generally, our models show how system performance is dependent on the scan strategy and the burstiness of the sensor data. I. INTRODUCTION In this paper, we use discrete-time Markov queuing models to compare the performance of batch versus streaming processing of sensor data in a weather detec- tion and monitoring system. In particular, we model and analyze the feature detection subsystem of the Meteoro- logical Command and Control (MC&C) component of the proposed architecture for the Collaborative Adaptive Sensing of the Atmosphere (CASA) weather prediction system (1), (2). In the proposed MC&C, weather sen- sor data are input asynchronously to feature detection algorithms for a fixed time window during which the algorithms must process the data and deposit any de- tected features into a repository. The system then uses these features to redirect the sensors, and the process then repeats. Any features not deposited in the repository before the end of the current window are not used in the
Contemporary results of open repair of ruptured abdominal aortoiliac aneurysms: effect of surgeon volume on mortality.

Objective The purpose of this study is to evaluate contemporary results of ruptured aortoiliac aneurysms (RAAA) and identify the role of surgeons' annual aortic volume and other prognostic indicators for early outcome. Methods A retrospective review identified 213 consecutive patients who presented with an atherosclerotic RAAA without thoracic extension over 6.5 years ending in June 2007. Excluded were 31 ruptures treated by endovascular repair (EVAR) or following previous EVAR, also excluded were two chronic asymptomatic hemodynamically stable ruptures. Ten patients were not treated due to either patient's refusal or prohibitive surgical risk. Demographic, preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative variables were collected. Log rank test and Cox proportional hazard model analyses were utilized to identify factors contributing to mortality and morbidity in these patients. Survival rates were estimated by Kaplan-Meier method. Results One hundred thirty-one males and 39 females with a mean age of 74.5 ± 8.1 years underwent consecutive RAAA repairs. The operative mortality rate was 38.2% (65/170), including 29 intraoperative deaths. Using multivariate analysis, surgeon's average annual AAA volume ( 20 average annual AAA cases/y) had a higher 30-day survival rates (78.4% vs 57.9%, P = .024). Octogenarians had a lower 30-day survival rate of 49.0% vs 70.5% ( P = .012). Patients who developed postoperative intestinal ischemia had a lower 30-day survival rate compared with patients without (48.1% vs 15.3%, P = .002). Increased intraoperative fluid and blood product usage was associated with bowel ischemia ( P Conclusions RAAA remains a highly lethal problem. The improved early outcomes of surgeons with high-volume AAA have strong implications for training, emergency staffing needs and alternative treatment strategies.
Partial acid hydrolysis of cellulosic materials as a pretreatment for enzymatic hydrolysis

Partial acid hydrolysis was studied as a per treatment to enhance enzymatic hydrolysis, such a pretreatment was carried out in a continuous flow reactor on oak corn Stover, newsprint, and Solka Floc at temperatures ranging from 160 to 220°C, acid concentration ranging from 0 to 1.2%, and a fixed treatment time of 0.22 min. The resulting slurries and solids were than hydrolyzed with Trichoderma ressei QM 9414 cellulase at 50°C for 48 hr. For all substrates except Solka Floc, increased glucose yields were achieved during enzymatic hydrolysis of the pretreated materials as compared to hydrolysis of the original substrate. In several cases, after pretreatment, 100° of the potential glucose content of the substrate was converted to glucose after 24hr of enzymatic hydrolysis. It is felt that the increased glucose yields achieved after this pretreatment are due to acid's removal of hemicellulose, reduced degree of polymerization, and possibly due to a change in the crystal structure of the cellulose.
Resolution of multiple AP-1 complexes in HL-60 cells induced to differentiate by 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3

Activator protein-1 (AP-1) complex plays a central role in the regulation of both growth and differentiation in many cell types. Monocytic differentiation of HL-60 cells by TPA (12-0-tetradecanoyl phorbol-13-acetate) has been reported to be paralleled by increased AP-1 binding to DNA and by elevated c-jun expression, suggesting transcriptional level of control. We show that two forms of AP-1 complex, designated AP-1/1 and AP-1/2, can be demonstrated in logarithmically growing HL-60 cells, that the exposure of these cells to 10−8 M 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) results in increased binding of these complexes to the AP-1 DNA element, and that the AP-1 complex can be resolved into at least three forms in differentiated cells. Binding to, or competition with, a mutated form of the AP-1 binding site shows that the most slowly migrating complex (AP-1/3) binds to DNA with greater specificity than do complexes AP-1/1 and AP-1/2, while antibody inhibition and binding studies performed at 37°C indicate that jun proteins predominate in AP-1/2 complexes. Exposure of extracts from differentiated, but not untreated, HL-60 cells to 2 mM ATP increases the prominence of AP-1/3 complexes, and reduces the DNA binding of AP-1/1 complexes. Treatment of the extracts with phosphatases abolishes the binding of AP-1/2 and AP-1/3 to DNA, and increases the binding intensity of AP-1/1. When extracts from differentiated cells are mixed with extracts from undifferentiated cells the AP-1/3 complexes become less prominent, suggesting than an inhibitory activity in undifferentiated cells prevents the formation of AP-1/3 complexes. These studies show the association of multiple forms of AP-1 complex with the mature monocytic phenotype, and suggest several levels of control of monocytic differentiation. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Vapor Transport and Sintering of Ceramics

There is a significant difference in the important processing steps between metals and ceramics. Most of the microstructure development and control which are used to vary properties in metallic systems occur during post-consolidation thermal and mechanical treatments such as recrystallization and precipitation. Only recently are similar techniques being applied to ceramics. For example, a great deal of effort is underway in trying to increase the work of fracture of ceramics by transformational toughening1 and microcracking2. Nevertheless, if the fracture strength of such materials is determined by large random processing flaws, even though the average strength is increased by toughening, the sample to sample variation will still make the systems designer reluctant to utilize the material. Therefore, an improved understanding of ceramic microstucture development is the most critical area which will lead to new, improved, and more widespread use of high technology ceramics.
The Liouville Equation and Its Potential Usefulness for the Prediction of Forecast Skill. Part II: Applications

Abstract The Liouville equation represents the consistent and comprehensive framework for the treatment of the uncertainty inherent in meteorological forecasts. By its very nature, consideration of the Liouville equation avoids problems that are inherent to commonly used methods for predicting forecast skill, such as the need for higher-moment closure within stochastic-dynamic prediction, or the need for the generation of large ensemble sizes within ensemble forecasting. The general analytical solution of the Liouville equation presented in the first part of this work is used here to find the solution of the Liouville equation relevant for two low-dimensional nonlinear dynamical systems and to investigate the potential usefulness of the Liouville equation in the context of predicting forecast skill. The analytical solution of the Liouville equation in these examples, namely, the time-dependent probability density function, is discussed and compared with corresponding results obtained by stochastic-dynamic...
Incorporation of ultraviolet (UV) absorbing nanoparticles in contact lenses for Class 1 UV blocking

Accumulated UV exposure over long durations could be a contributory factor for ocular complications including cataracts and retinal damage. UV blocking contact lenses offer excellent protection, however, only a few commercial UV blocking contact lenses are available. Thus there is a need to develop new approaches for imparting UV blocking to contact lenses. We incorporate highly UV absorbing nanoparticles into hydroxyethylmethacrylate (HEMA) and silicone hydrogels by polymerizing a mixture of monomers and nanoparticles. The nanoparticles are prepared by thermal free radical polymerization of an emulsion of hydrophobic UV absorbing components that contain a polymerizable vinyl group. The particle size is controlled to be less than 100 nm to minimize the scattering of visible light. The nanoparticles disperse well in the HEMA monomer leading to fully transparent gels with excellent UV blocking. The particle suspension does not disperse in the silicone-hydrogel formulations necessitating dialysis to reduce the surfactant concentration. The silicone-hydrogels loaded with the particles are excellent UV blockers but the transparency in the visible range is only about 60%. SEM imaging of the particle loaded gels show that the microstructure of the gels depend on the rate of polymerization, with a rapid rate leading to a more uniform distribution of the particles. UV blocking from the particle loaded gels is not impacted by processing such as autoclaving. Also UV exposure does not degrade UV absorption and the particles are retained in the lens during storage. Incorporation of nanoparticles into contact lenses by the addition of the polymerization mixture followed by curing is a promising approach for imparting UV protection to contact lenses.
Preventing or slowing the progression of diabetic nephropathy

(1999). Preventing or Slowing the Progression of Diabetic Nephropathy. Baylor University Medical Center Proceedings: Vol. 12, No. 1, pp. 3-6.
Daddy dearest: Obesity alters the sperm epigenome

Obesity results from complex interactions between genes, behavior, and the environment. Although the bulk of research on the role of the prenatal environment in the development of obesity is focused on the influence of maternal factors—body mass index, diet, and physical activity—on offspring
Synergistic Degradation of CV-1144-O Due to Ultraviolet Radiation and Heat

Nu-Sil’s CV-1144-O is a silicone-based co-polymer used on spacecraft in LEO. CV-1144 has been spin-coated onto platinum sputter coated silicon wafers, and simulated LEO experiments made to study degradation. First, samples were exposed to ultraviolet radiation from a deuterium lamp with no additional heating. Next, samples were heated to 100°C during which there was no radiation exposure. Finally, samples were exposed simultaneously to ultraviolet radiation and heating.
CaMKII regulates proteasome phosphorylation and activity and promotes memory destabilization following retrieval

Numerous studies have suggested that memories "destabilize" and require de novo protein synthesis in order to reconsolidate following retrieval, but very little is known about how this destabilization process is regulated. Recently, ubiquitin-proteasome mediated protein degradation has been identified as a critical regulator of memory trace destabilization following retrieval, though the specific mechanisms controlling retrieval-induced changes in ubiquitin-proteasome activity remain equivocal. Here, we found that proteasome activity is increased in the amygdala in a CaMKII-dependent manner following the retrieval of a contextual fear memory. We show that in vitro inhibition of CaMKII reversed retrieval-induced increases in proteasome activity. Additionally, in vivo pharmacological blockade of CaMKII abolished increases in proteolytic activity and activity related regulatory phosphorylation in the amygdala following retrieval, suggesting that CaMKII was "upstream" of protein degradation during the memory reconsolidation process. Consistent with this, while inhibiting CaMKII in the amygdala did not impair memory following retrieval, it completely attenuated the memory impairments that resulted from post-retrieval protein synthesis blockade. Collectively, these results suggest that CaMKII controls the initiation of the memory reconsolidation process through regulation of the proteasome.
China Utility Model Patent: Trash or Treasure – A Data-Based Analysis

The Chinese Utility Model Patent (CUMP) has existed since the implementation of China’s Patent Law in 1985. Previous studies on the CUMP focus on the patentability standards (subject matter, novelty, and non-obviousness), and the nature of the system itself. Data-based empirical studies are not often seen. This paper fills this gap by analyzing the CUMP from the data perspectives of citation, litigation, and finance. Derived conclusions show the growing importance of the CUMP, and its high value, as a treasure to CUMP holders, contrary to the traditional misconception that the CUMP is trash.
Laminar Incompressible Forced Convection

This chapter presents a simple introduction to momentum balances and laminar one-dimensional flow and then moves on to transient analysis of one-dimensional flows. By studying this chapter you will learn how to obtain the average velocity from a knowledge of the velocity profile and, in contrast, the average temperature from a temperature profile in internal flow. In addition, the chapter will allow you to acquire a visual understanding of different flow regions in internal flow, such as entry and the fully developed flow regions, and calculate hydrodynamic and thermal entry lengths.
Role of cyclosporine in glomerular diseases.

BACKGROUND Clinical researchers are beginning to use the immunosuppressive agent cyclosporine to treat a variety of immunologically mediated diseases. PURPOSE To review the clinical experience with cyclosporine in the nephrotic syndrome and in lupus nephritis. SUMMARY Most studies to date have been small or uncontrolled, or both. Nevertheless, cyclosporine appears to produce remissions in adults and children with the nephrotic syndrome with minimal histologic changes ("minimal-change disease"). It also appears to produce remissions in children with focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis; it is less effective in adults and in individuals with focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis that is resistant to steroids. It appears to reduce proteinuria and to slow the progression of renal insufficiency in membranous glomerulonephritis but has little beneficial effect in IgA nephropathy. Anecdotal experience in patients with lupus nephritis suggests cyclosporine produces an improvement in symptoms, a decrease in protein excretion, and improvement in renal function when other treatments have failed. Cyclosporine9s pharmacokinetic properties vary widely with the age of the patient and the presence of concomitant diseases and drugs. Relapses are common after the drug is stopped, and nephrotoxicity is a real risk with prolonged treatment. CONCLUSIONS Cyclosporine shows promise in treating immunologically mediated glomerular diseases, but larger randomized studies will be needed to define its role in this setting. Physicians should become more familiar with this drug as its indications increase.