cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Toxicity of Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacterins and cell walls to the greater wax moth, Galleria mellonella.

Abstract Bacterins of Pseudomonas aeruginosa were toxic to six of seven strains of Galleria mellonella larvae examined. The susceptible strains all show a typical pathology characterized by a line of melanization along the dorsal surface that appears shortly after treatment with bacterin or cell wall material. The toxin is heat stabile and sensitive to the action of lysozyme. It is not detoxified by treatment with trypsin, deoxyribonuclease, or ribonuclease. Cell wall material was immunogenic for the resistant larvae; lysozyme-treated (detoxified) cell wall material, however, probably was not immunogenic, since it failed to induce a significant change in the mean melanization time of the hemolymph.
Should the Premed Requirements in Physics Be Changed

Factors influencing the premedical requirement in physics are examined. A review is given of the various reasons why physics is important in medical education. The new Medical College Admissions Test is discussed. In looking at the rapid advances in technology in medicine, it is argued that the medical student is presently disadvantaged in physics, simply not having taken enough physics as an undergraduate. It is urged that an additional (applied) course, requiring introductory physics and calculus as prerequisites, be included among medical school entrance requirements.
A Genome-Wide Association Study of spontaneous preterm birth in a European population

Background: Preterm birth is defined as a birth prior to 37 completed weeks’ gestation. It affects more than 10% of all births worldwide, and is the leading cause of neonatal mortality in non-anomalous newborns. Even if the preterm newborn survives, there is an increased risk of lifelong morbidity. Despite the magnitude of this public health problem, the etiology of spontaneous preterm birth is not well understood. Previous studies suggest that genetics is an important contributing factor. We therefore employed a genome-wide association approach to explore possible fetal genetic variants that may be associated with spontaneous preterm birth. Methods: We obtained preterm birth phenotype and genotype data from the National Center for Biotechnology Information Genotypes and Phenotypes Database (study accession phs000103.v1.p1). This dataset contains participants collected by the Danish National Birth Cohort and includes 1000 preterm births and 1000 term births as controls. Whole genomes were genotyped on the Illumina Human660W-Quad_v1_A platform, which contains more than 500,000 markers. After data quality control, we performed genome-wide association studies for the 22 autosomal chromosomes. Results: No single nucleotide polymorphism reached genome-wide significance after Bonferroni correction for multiple testing. Conclusion: We found no evidence of genetic association with spontaneous preterm birth in this European population. Approaches that facilitate detection of both common and rare genetic variants, such as evaluation of high-risk pedigrees and genome sequencing, may be more successful in identifying genes associated with spontaneous preterm birth.
Genetic Approaches to Cardiovascular Disease Supravalvular Aortic Stenosis, Williams Syndrome, and Long-QT syndrome

Background Although family history can be an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease, relatively little is known about the nature of specific genetic risk factors. One approach to this problem is to identify and characterize genes responsible for inherited disorders in the hope that this information will also provide mechanistic insight into common forms of cardiovascular disease. Methods and Results Over the last decade, it has become possible to identify genes that cause human disease by use of the techniques of molecular genetics, specifically genetic linkage analysis, positional cloning, and mutational analyses. We have used these techniques to study three inherited cardiovascular disorders: supravalvular aortic stenosis, Williams syndrome, and long-QT syndrome. We have discovered that the vascular pathology of supravalvular aortic stenosis and Williams syndrome results from mutations involving the elastin gene on chromosome 7q11.23. These mutations include intragenic deletions, translocation...
Bone sarcomas as second malignant neoplasms following childhood cancer

This study explores the relationship between histologic variants of bone sarcomas and previous therapy in patients in whom an unrelated malignant neoplasm had been diagnosed during childhood. Sarcomas of bone were the most common second malignant neoplasm (SMN) reported to the Late Effects Study Group, a 13institution consortium consisting of pediatric oncology centers from western Europe, Canada, and the United States. The authors attempted to relate the histologic subtypes of the 91 bone tumors to clinical factors such as previous therapy and genetic predisposition because morphologic variants have been shown to have biologic significance in other tumors and may have etiologic import. The literature concerning the subtypes of bone tumors, clinical and experimental, is also reviewed. The authors also investigated the effect of several factors on the time interval from the first diagnosis to the SMN (ie., the bone sarcoma). Anthracyclines significantly shortened the interval by about 3 years. The primary diagnosis also significantly affected the interval, with leukemia/lymphomas having the shortest interval and retinoblastoma the longest. The authors could not demonstrate any significant relationship between morphologic characteristics of the osteosarcoma and predisposing conditions. However, lesions diagnosed as chondrosarcoma and malignant fibrous histiocytoma occurred almost exclusively in patients who had received radiation therapy to the site in which the SMN developed. Cancer 67:193-201,1991, HEN MORE THAN ONE cancer occurs in a person, W the opportunity arises to investigate etiologic factors for carcinogenesis. Usually environmental agents are implicated, some of them being associated with therapy for the first cancer. The possibility that genetic factors may play a role should also be considered. Genetics is especially important for one childhood neoplasm, retinoblastoma, in which the association with osteogenic sarcoma in those with the genetic form is well known.’ Osteogenic sarcoma, however, is most often seen after ra
Thermomechanical process optimization of U-10 wt% Mo – Part 1: high-temperature compressive properties and microstructure

Abstract Nuclear power research facilities require alternatives to existing highly enriched uranium alloy fuel. One option for a high density metal fuel is uranium alloyed with 10 wt% molybdenum (U–10Mo). Fuel fabrication process development requires specific mechanical property data that, to date has been unavailable. In this work, as-cast samples were compression tested at three strain rates over a temperature range of 400–800 °C to provide data for hot rolling and extrusion modeling. The results indicate that with increasing test temperature the U–10Mo flow stress decreases and becomes more sensitive to strain rate. In addition, above the eutectoid transformation temperature, the drop in material flow stress is prominent and shows a strain-softening behavior, especially at lower strain rates. Room temperature X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy combined with energy dispersive spectroscopy analysis of the as-cast and compression tested samples were conducted. The analysis revealed that the as-cast samples and the samples tested below the eutectoid transformation temperature were predominantly γ phase with varying concentration of molybdenum, whereas the ones tested above the eutectoid transformation temperature underwent significant homogenization.
Unified Modeling of PWM Converters With Regular or Tapped Inductors Using TIS-SFG Approach

This paper revisits the switched flow graph (SFG) technique. A general and unified equivalent SFG model of a three-terminal switcher encountered in regular and tapped inductor converters operating in the continuous conduction mode is proposed. The model can be applied to most PWM topologies and facilitates construction of a complete flow graph of a given converter. The approach can be helpful in theoretical analysis and derivation of analytical expressions of converter's small-signal transfer functions. The suggested methodology extends the previously proposed SFG analysis technique and alleviates the principal difficulties involved. Furthermore, the approach is straightforward and expeditious. Application guidelines and examples are presented and compared to simulation and earlier theoretical results.
A cam-based laser-induced fluorescence scanner for capillary array electrophoresis

Abstract Capillary array electrophoresis (CAE) is an important high throughput analytical technique. Laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) has been the dominant detection method for CAE owing to its low limit of detection (LOD) and wide linear dynamic range (LDR). Linear LIF scanners were first used in CAE because linear motions of an objective match well with a common planar array of capillaries. A problem with linear scanners is that the motor is required accelerating/decelerating so that all capillaries can be properly scanned, which makes motion control complicated and reduces the duty cycle. Rotary scanners were developed to overcome this problem. While rotary scanners have been successfully applied in CAE, the capillaries have to be arranged in a circular format, which can be inconvenient in some cases. In this report, we describe a cam-based LIF scanner as an alternative technique for CAE detection. In this system, a rotary motor is mechanically linked with a capillary holder via a cam. During operation, the motor carries the cam in a rotary motion that drives an array of capillaries on the holder to move back and forth across the objective for fluorescence detection. Using this design, the capillaries can be parallel-arranged in a plane while the motor acceleration/deceleration is avoided. To demonstrate the feasibility of this approach, we constructed a prototype instrument with a constant-velocity scanning distance of ∼10 mm, a scanning frequency of 3 Hz and a duty cycle of ∼70%. The scanner exhibited a LOD of 69 pM of fluorescein and a LDR of 3.5 orders of magnitude. Multiplexed capillary SDS-PAGE was performed on this scanner for protein separations.
Sex and seasonal differences in the spatial terrestrial distribution of gray treefrog (Hyla versicolor) populations

Abstract Fragmentation of terrestrial landscapes has exacerbated the need to understand the spatial requirements of organisms, especially those that undergo seasonal migrations, such as pond-breeding amphibians. Pond-breeding amphibians spend much of their lives in terrestrial habitat at some distance from aquatic breeding sites. The terrestrial habitat required by a particular individual encompasses the area adjacent to a breeding pond that is used for activities such as foraging or overwintering, as well as the expanses of habitat through which it moves. To elucidate amphibian spatial habitat requirements, we monitored gray treefrog (Hyla versicolor) movements through terrestrial habitat adjacent to breeding ponds using radiotelemetry and mark–recapture along transects of artificial refugia. Results indicate that gray treefrogs frequently make migrations between foraging grounds, overwintering sites, and breeding ponds of 200 m or more, with a maximum-recorded movement distance of 330 m. Additionally, females travel farther than males for reasons independent of body size, and the distribution of males during the breeding season is biased towards breeding ponds relative to the non-breeding season. The data illustrate the importance of habitat directly adjacent to breeding sites for males, and indicate that habitat loss resulting in small patches may have a greater negative impact on females than males, and consequently may have disproportionately large effects on population persistence. These results emphasize that effective management of amphibian breeding locations via protection of both aquatic and adjacent upland terrestrial resources likely requires detailed information regarding variation in movements between the sexes and among seasonal activity periods.
String theory and the principle of black hole complementarity.

String theory provides an example of the kind of apparent inconsistency that the principle of black hole complementarity deals with. To a freely infalling observer a string falling through a black hole horizon appears to be a Planck size object. To an outside observer the string and all the information it carries begin to spread as the string approache the horizon. In a time of order the ``information retention time'' it fills the entire area of the horizon.
Raloxifene and estradiol benzoate both fully restore hippocampal choline acetyltransferase activity in ovariectomized rats.

Abstract Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) demonstrate tissue-specific estrogen receptor (ER) agonist or antagonist properties. Raloxifene, a prototypical SERM, has ER agonist properties in bone and on cholesterol metabolism but full antagonist properties in the uterus and breast. To characterize the ER agonist/antagonist profile of raloxifene in the brain, we have examined its effect on the activity of a known estrogen-responsive gene product, choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), in the hippocampus and other brain regions of 6-month-old ovariectomized (OVX) Sprague–Dawley rats. Three weeks post-ovariectomy, animals received estradiol benzoate (EB, 0.03 mg or 0.3 mg kg-1 day-1 for 3 or 10 days); raloxifene HCl (3.0 mg kg-1 day-1 for 3 or 10 days), tamoxifen (3.0 mg kg-1 day-1 for 10 days) or vehicle (20% CDX). As previously reported, ChAT activity decreased by approximately 20%–50% in the hippocampus of OVX compared with SHAM-operated control rats with no change in ChAT activity observed in the hypothalamus. Raloxifene or EB reversed the OVX-induced decrease in ChAT activity in the hippocampus but did not change ChAT activity in the hypothalamus. Animals that received combined EB (0.03 mg/kg) plus raloxifene (1 mg/kg) or tamoxifen alone (3.0 or 10 mg/kg) also showed increased hippocampal ChAT activity. Raloxifene failed to increase uterine weight and blocked the estrogen-induced increase in uterine weight, while another SERM, tamoxifen, increased uterine weight. These data demonstrate that raloxifene has estrogen-like properties on hippocampal ChAT activity in vivo, and suggest that benzothiophene SERMs may exert estrogen-like beneficial effects on cholinergic neurotransmission in brain without producing peripheral stimulation of breast or uterine tissue.
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide stimulates oligomerization, interaction with adenovirus E1A and an intrinsic dehydrogenase activity of CtBP.

The C-terminal region of adenovirus E1A interacts with the transcriptional corepressor, CtBP. The mechanism of transcriptional regulation by CtBP is not known. CtBP shares a significant homology with NAD+-dependent D2-hydroxy acid dehydrogenases. CtBP binds to NAD+ and NADH. Both forms of the dinucleotide stimulate oligomerization of native CtBP and enhance complex formation with E1A. CtBP also has a slow dehydrogenase activity. Interaction of CtBP with E1A reduces the dehydrogenase activity. Our results raise the possibility that the oxidation/reduction reactions of CtBP may regulate transcription. Thus, CtBP is a unique transcriptional regulator with an enzymatic activity similar to metabolic dehydrogenases. The levels of intracellular nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide may modulate transcriptional activity of CtBP.
Energies of atoms with nonspherical charge densities calculated with nonlocal density-functional theory.

Calculations using nonlocal density-functional theory show that the total energies of atoms in states characterized by partially filled degenerate subshells are substantially lower when the charge density is not spherically averaged. This is in contrast to the case with local density theory in which spherical and nonspherical treatments of atoms give essentially identical energies. A cooperative effect of nonlocality in the exchange-correlation functional and nonsphericity in the charge density lowers the atomic total energies and greatly improves the calculated binding energies of ${\mathrm{B}}_{2}$, ${\mathrm{C}}_{2}$, ${\mathrm{O}}_{2}$, and ${\mathrm{F}}_{2}$.
Computational approaches for modeling regulatory cellular networks

Cellular components interact with each other to form networks that process information and evoke biological responses. A deep understanding of the behavior of these networks requires the development and analysis of mathematical models. In this article, different types of mathematical representations for modeling signaling networks are described, and the advantages and disadvantages of each type are discussed. Two experimentally well-studied signaling networks are then used as examples to illustrate the insight that could be gained through modeling. Finally, the modeling approach is expanded to describe how signaling networks might regulate cellular machines and evoke phenotypic behaviors.
Pole placement capabilities of vibrational control

Vibrational control modifies the system dynamics by introducing fast zero-average parametric oscillations. However, this property is constrained by the trace invariance condition which limits the pole placement capabilities. This paper provides the necessary and sufficient conditions under which pole assignment by vibrational control in certain parts of the complex plane is possible.
Phenotype matters: the absence of a positive association between cortical thinning and chronic low back pain when controlling for salient clinical variables.

AIMS/OBJECTIVES/BACKGROUND Studies have associated chronic low back pain (cLBP) with grey matter thinning. But these studies have not controlled for important clinical variables (such as a comorbid affective disorder, pain medication, age, or pain phenotype), which may reduce or eliminate these associations. METHODS We conducted cortical thickness and voxel-based morphometry (VBM) analyses in 14 cLBP patients with a discogenic component to their pain, not taking opioids or benzodiazepines, and not depressed or anxious. They were age and gender matched to 14 pain-free controls (PFCs). An ROI-driven analysis (regions of interest) was conducted, using 18 clusters from a previous arterial spin labeling study demonstrating greater regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) in these cLBP subjects than the PFCs. Cortical thickness and VBM-based gray matter volume measurements were obtained from a structural MRI scan and group contrasts were calculated. RESULTS Multivariate analysis of variance showed a trend toward cortical thickening in the right paracentral lobule in cLBP subjects (F1,17=3.667, P<0.067), and significant thickening in the right rostral middle frontal gyrus (F1,17=6.880, P<0.014). These clusters were non-significant after including age as a covariate (P<0.891; P<0.279). A whole-brain cortical thickness and VBM analysis also did not identify significant clusters of thinning or thickening. Exploratory analyses identified group differences for correlations between age and cortical thickness of the right rostral middle frontal gyrus (cLBP: R=-0.03, P=0.9; PFCs: R=-0.81, P<0.001), that is, PFCs demonstrated age-related thinning while cLBP patients did not. CONCLUSIONS Our pilot results suggest that controlling for affect, age, and concurrent medications may reduce or eliminate some of the previously reported structural brain alterations in cLBP.
Parental responses to involvement in rounds on a pediatric inpatient unit at a teaching hospital: a qualitative study.

PurposeIn pediatric teaching hospitals, medical decisions are traditionally made by the attending and resident physicians during rounds that do not include parents. This structure limits the ability of the medical team to provide “family-centered care” and the attending physician to model communicat
The effect of surface contamination on thermocapillary flow in a two-dimensional slot. Part 2. Partially contaminated interfaces

We consider the flow driven by a thermally induced surface stress in a fluid held in a shallow two-dimensional slot, and show that, for low Maragoni number, the extent of surface stagnation due to the presence of a non-diffusing surfactant depends on a single parameter E, the elasticity number defined in Part 1 of this analysis (Homsy & Meiburg 1984). For situations in which the adsorbed species are insufficient to result in a fully covered surface, we find that the interface is either clean and subject to constant stress, or contaminated and no-slip. There is a region in which one type of surface is replaced by the other. The Wiener–Hopf technique is used to obtain an analytic expression for the stream function in the vicinity of the leading edge of the stagnant surface in the limit of creeping flow. This result shows that the flow dies off under the stagnant surface at a distance of the order of the depth of the fluid, in a series of vortices of exponentially decreasing magnitude.
Analysis of skin-derived amniotic fluid cells in the second trimester; detection of severe genodermatoses expressed in the fetal period.

Amniotic fluid contains skin-derived cells. To determine whether populations of amniotic fluid cells reflect genetic conditions, we surveyed the population of amniotic fluid cells from 36 fetuses at 16-21 weeks estimated gestational age at risk for junctional epidermolysis bullosa, recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, epidermolysis bullosa Dowling-Meara, harlequin ichthyosis, lamellar ichthyosis (nonbullous congenital ichthyosiform erythroderma), or Sjogren-Larson syndrome. Periderm cells, keratinocytes, cells of unknown epithelial origin, fibroblasts, fibrin clots, and urinary cast-like materials were seen in the amniotic fluid from normal fetuses. A large number of small macrophages phagocytizing collagen fibers was found in the amniotic fluid from all recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, some junctional epidermolysis bullosa fetuses, and a single epidermolysis bullosa Dowling-Meara fetus. Immuno-gold electron microscopy with anti-lysozyme and anti-CD68 antibodies confirmed that the cells morphologically identified as macrophages were active macrophages containing many lysosomes. The percentage of macrophages/total amniotic fluid cells in amniotic fluid samples from the fetuses affected with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa was significantly increased (12.30 +/- 0.20%) compared with that in the amniotic fluid from normal fetuses (1.30 +/- 0.65%) (p < 0.001). In amniotic fluid samples from fetuses affected with harlequin ichthyosis and lamellar ichthyosis, clumps of keratinized cells that contained disease-specific abnormal granules and lipid droplets were observed. These results indicate that the morphologic analysis of amniotic fluid cells can provide important supportive information for the prenatal diagnosis of several severe genodermatoses.
Dynamic modeling and actual performance of the MOOS test mooring

This paper presents a comparison between model predictions made with WHOI-Cable and actual measurements of the tensions in a deep-water oceanographic mooring. The mooring is part of the MBARI Ocean Observing System (MOOS) that utilizes an electro-optical-mechanical (EOM) cable to deliver power and communications to a sub-sea network of instruments. The predictions agree acceptably with the measured results, and improvements to the model and validation system that will be incorporated in the next deployment are discussed. Also presented is an outline of the information learned about the mooring cables service environment, both from the deployment results themselves and from the cable dynamics model.
SU-E-T-86: Comparison of Two Commercially Available Programs for the Evaluation of Delivered Daily Dose Using Cone Beam CT (CBCT)

Purpose: In this study, two commercially available programs were compared for the evaluation of delivered daily dose using cone beam CT (CBCT). Methods: Thirty (n=30) patients previously treated in our clinic (10 prostate, 10 SBRT lung and 10 abdomen) were used in this study. The patients' plans were optimized and calculated using the Pinnacle treatment planning system. The daily CBCT scans were imported into Velocity and RayStation along with the corresponding planning CTs, structure sets and 3D dose distributions for each patient. The organs at risk (OAR) were contoured on each CBCT by the prescribing physician and were included in the evaluation of the daily delivered dose. Each CBCT was registered to the planning CT, once with rigid registration and then again, separately, with deformable registration. After registering each CBCT, the dose distribution from the planning CT was overlaid and the dose volume histograms (DVH) for the OAR and the planning target volumes (PTV) were calculated. Results: For prostate patients, we observed daily volume changes for the OARs. The DVH analysis for those patients showed variation in the sparing of the OARs while PTV coverage remained virtually unchanged using both Velocity and RayStation systems. Similar results were observed for abdominalmore » patients. In contrast, for SBRT lung patients, the DVH for the OARs and target were comparable to those from the initial treatment plan. Differences in organ volume and organ doses were also observed when comparing the daily fractions using deformable and rigid registrations. Conclusion: By using daily CBCT dose reconstruction, we proved PTV coverage for prostate and abdominal targets is adequate. However, there is significant dosimetric change for the OARs. For lung SBRT patients, the delivered daily dose for both PTV and OAR is comparable to the planned dose with no significant differences.« less
Structure Localization in Ultrasound Video

We address the problem of automated localization of pre-defined anatomical structures during an Ultrasound examination. This is motivated by the shortage of imaging experts in underserved areas of the world, where examinations often have to be performed by supporting staff. In such situations, acquiring medically relevant imaging material (that can be sent to experts for further analysis) can be a quite challenging task, primarily due to the lack of knowledge about the human anatomy and limited experience in Ultrasound imaging.
The vibration signal, modulatory communication and the organization of labor in honey bees, Apis mellifera

Cooperative activities in honey bee colonies involve the coordinated interactions of multiple workers that perform different, but interrelated tasks. A central objective in the study of honey bee sociality therefore is to understand the communication signals used to integrate behavior within and among worker groups. This paper focuses on the role of the "vibration signal" in organizing labor in honey bee colonies. The vibration signal functions as a type of "modulatory communication signal". It is directed toward diverse recipients, causes a non-specific increase in activity that may alter responsiveness to a wide array of stimuli, and thus may influence the performance of many different tasks simultaneously. We review the empirical evidence that the signal is involved in coordinating at least three colony-level activities: food collection and foraging-dependent tasks, queen behavior during swarming and queen replacement, and house hunting by honey bee swarms. Signals that function like the vibration signal may be widespread in highly social insects and social animals in general, and may help to fine-tune the collective decision-making processes that underlie cooperative actions in a wide array of species. vibration signal / modulatory communication / collective decision making / Apis mellifera / multimodal signals
Microfabrication of homogenous, asymmetric cell-laden hydrogel capsules

Cell encapsulation has been broadly investigated as a technology to provide immunoprotection for transplanted endocrine cells. Here we develop a new fabrication method that allows for rapid, homogenous microencapsulation of insulin-secreting cells with varying microscale geometries and asymmetrically modified surfaces. Micromolding systems were developed using polypropylene mesh, and the material/surface properties associated with efficient encapsulation were identified. Cells encapsulated using these methods maintain desirable viability and preserve their ability to proliferate and secrete insulin in a glucose-responsive manner. This new cell encapsulation approach enables a practical route to an inexpensive and convenient process for the generation of cell-laden microcapsules without requiring any specialized equipment or microfabrication process.
Simulations of Fatty Acid-Binding Proteins. II. Sites for Discrimination of Monounsaturated Ligands

Fatty acid binding proteins (FABPs) can discriminate between saturated and unsaturated fatty acids via molecular mechanisms that are not understood. Molecular dynamics computer calculations are used to suggest the relationship between tertiary structure and binding specificity. Three separate 1-ns simulations, with explicit solvent, are presented: 1) oleic acid (C18:1 cis) bound to adipocyte FABP, 2) oleic acid bound to human muscle FABP, and 3) elaidic acid (C18:1 trans) bound to human muscle FABP. The average structural, dynamic, and energetic properties of the trajectory were analyzed, as were the motional correlations. The molecular dynamics trajectories reveal intriguing differences among all three systems. For example, the two proteins have different strengths of interaction energy with the ligand and different motional coupling, as seen with covariance analysis. This suggests distinctive molecular behavior of monounsaturated fatty acids in the two similar proteins. An importance scale, based on motional correlation and interaction energy between protein and ligand, is proposed, to help identify amino acids involved with the discrimination of ligand saturation state or geometric isomerization.
Massive Paradoxical Embolism Caught in the Act

A 33-year-old scientist with recent exertional shortness-of-breath presented with new onset right flank and groin pain. For weeks, he had spent over 16 hours a day at his desk writing a grant. History and physical examination revealed resting tachypnea, sinus tachycardia, tender right flank with (+) Giordano sign, and resting oxygen saturation of 91% on room air. Computed tomography showed recent right renal infarct and ventilation/perfusion scan revealed multiple areas of mismatch. Transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography revealed a large “snake-like” mass waving in …
Power corrections and the Gaussian form of the meson wave function

The wave function of a light pseudoscalar meson is considered and nonperturbative corrections as signaled by perturbation theory are calculated. Two schemes are used: the massive gluon and the running coupling scheme. Both indicate the presence of leading power corrections of O(b{sup 2}), whose exponentiation leads to a Gaussian dependence of the wave function on the impact parameter b. The dependence of this correction on the light cone energy fractions of the quark and the antiquark is discussed and compared with other models for the meson. {copyright} {ital 1998} {ital The American Physical Society}
Reduced Nicotinamide-adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate Oxidase: Activity Enhanced by Ethanol Consumption

Prolonged consumption of ethanol enhances the activities of the hepatic microsomal ethanol oxidizing system and of reduced nicotinamide-adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase, but not of catalase. The oxidase-catalase system is not part of the microsomal ethanol oxidizing system since catalase inhibitors dissociate ethanol oxidation by the two pathways. Enhanced reduced nicotinamide-adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase activity may contribute to liver injury, possibly by favoring lipoperoxidation.
An outside-in approach to resource-based theories

The ability of firms to understand and quickly adjust to their fast‐changing markets ultimately depends on their adaptive capabilities. The full benefit of these capabilities will be realized by firms that adopt an outside‐ approach to the development of their dynamic capabilities.
Chloramphenicol resistant mitochondrial protein synthesis in Crithidia fasciculata.

Abstract Growth of Crithidia fasciculata , a heme-requiring flagellated protozoan, was not affected by the presence of chloramphenicol in concentrations as high as 4 mg/ml. Amino acid incorporation by a mitochondrial fraction, containing both mitochondria and kinetoplasts, was resistant to chloramphenicol and cycloheximide, but sensitive to puromycin. The postmitochondrial supernatant (27,000 g ) also incorporated [ 14 C]leucine into trichloroacetic acid insoluble material, but this incorporation was inhibited by cycloheximide. Chloramphenicol did not affect this system. Treatment of the mitochondrial fraction with digitonin enhanced the rate of [ 14 C]leucine incorporation, but did not render the preparation sensitive to chloramphenicol. Electron microscopic examination of the digitonin treated mitochondrial fraction revealed the presence of ghosts. Separation of kinetoplasts from mitochondrial vesicles was achieved by discontinuous sucrose gradient centrifugation. Both the kinetoplast and mitochondrial fractions incorporated [ 14 C]leucine at about the same rate. No inhibition of incorporation by chloramphenicol was observed with either fraction.
Immunopathologic changes in patients with cutaneous malignant melanoma following intratumoral inoculation of BCG: Correlation with cell‐mediated immunity

Six patients with cutaneous melanoma were treated with intratumoral Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG). Four showed good responses with regression of injected and, frequently, of uninjected lesions, whereas two developed dissemination and died. Three of four responders remain in complete remission. Two strains of BCG were used; there was no detectable difference in therapeutic efficacy. Three of four responders showed a significant increase in lymphocyte stimulation (LS) to melanoma antigens, and all responders showed a marked increase in phytohemagglutinin (PHA). Non-responders showed no increase to either stimulant. All responders were negative for leukocyte migration inhibition (LMI) to melanoma antigens before BCG, but two of four responders converted to positive after BCG therapy. Of the non-responders, one was positive and one was negative before therapy; there was no change following BCG. There was a marked increase in active rosette-forming cells (RFCS) in all responders and in only one of two non-responders. Preliminary studies suggest that BCG also affects the level of circulating inhibitors which abrogate the activity of immune lymphocytes to melanoma antigens. A definite sequence occurs following intratumoral BCG: (1) disruption of melanogenesis with release of pigment from tumor cells (3-6 h); (2) inflammatory response of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNS) and mononuclear cells which remain at the tumor periphery (6-24h); (3) tumor-cell death (24h); and (4) granulomas replacing tumor (2 weeks). The response to BCG resembles the immunologic and histopathologic changes observed in halo nevi. These studies suggest that BCG activates both tumor-specific and non-specific immune responses. Thus, in vitro parameters of cell-mediated immunity (CMI) are affected by BCG and some, particularly LS, LMI and the active rosette test, seem to correlate with clinical response.
Impact studies of unbalanced multi-phase distribution system component models

This panel summary will discuss the impact of multi-phase component models on distribution system analysis. Specifically, power flow results of a test distribution system modeled with balanced or decoupled component models will be compared to those of a full unbalanced, multi-phase analysis. Balanced approximations model the distribution system as a strictly three-phase balanced network with balanced loads. A decoupled approximation models the system as three, single-phase, decoupled systems. It will be shown that the resulting power flow solutions yield significant differences. The effect of these inaccuracies on distribution system planning and operation will be discussed.
On the reducibility of failure theories for composite materials

Abstract This paper reports on the initiation of an effort to address three ontological aspects of failure criteria as they are applicable to composite materials applications. The first attempts to clarify “what a criterion really is” from the perspective of physical objectivity. The second attempts to clarify “how a criterion relates with another” in terms of their main semantic attributes. The third attempts to identify “how one criterion is related to another” in terms of their syntactic representation in the context of term calculus especially from the perspective of polynomial association with the strain energy density. Under the first aspect the non-physical nature of a theory is exposed when it is used as a criterion and is evaluated from its semantic perspective. The human role on the formation of any failure criterion is shown to have a foundationally subjective character, thus, rendering the corresponding criterion as non-objective. Under the second aspect the creation of classification ontology in terms of the semantic projections of failure criteria in their structural heritage and usage contexts is given. The common attributes of failure criteria are utilized to identify the bases of the attribute space that can be used to enable their ontological classification. Web ontology software is utilized for visual interpretation of the ontological context. Under the third aspect the syntactic reducibility of the various known failure theories to one another is addressed. Thermodynamically founded strain energy density expansion leads to the creation of various generalized strain energy based criteria. Two theorems are proposed and proved to show that under specific conditions failure criteria and theories of certain polynomial structure are constrained renderings of criteria based on strain energy density. Examples are given to demonstrate how a critical energy density criterion represents the least upper bound in the partial ordered set of many well known failure criteria.
The Ethics of Change

This case is designed for use in courses that explore ethics or issues related to the change process. The superintendent in this case is faced with a decision that could facilitate the adoption of much needed reform in the district. This decision would not only assure better learning and brighter futures for thousands of students but avert his own firing. At risk is the self-respect of a single person. This case can be used as a springboard to a discussion of professional ethics as well as the consequences of the change process. The case was developed for the Missouri Professors of Educational Administration through a grant from the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, 2003.
Microstructural analysis of LWR spent fuels at high burnup

Abstract The microstructural changes in commercial light-water reactor (LWR) fuels irradiated to average burnups near 50 MWd/kgM were studied by analytical transmission electron microscopy and Auger electron spectrometry. Several poorly understood aspects of the fuel behavior were examined, including (a) precipitation of the fission gases in dense, highly pressurized inclusions, (b) apparent solution of Cs, Ba, Zr, and Te in the UO2 matrix, and (c) the “rim effect” involving restructuring of the enhanced burnup region at the fuel outer edges. Initial observations of the high-burnup rim showed an extremely fine-grained structure formed by recrystallization of the original UO2. The restructuring is a burnup-induced instability of the UO2, possibly driven by the stored energy of fission products in solution, and is expected to extend across LWR fuel pellets irradiated to higher burnups.
Assessment Essentials: Planning, Implementing, and Improving Assessment in Higher Education (review)

(2002). Assessment Essentials: Planning, Implementing, and Improving Assessment in Higher Education. The Journal of Higher Education: Vol. 73, No. 2, pp. 302-305.
Sowing the Seeds of Violence in Heterosexual Relationships: Early Adolescents Narrate Compulsory Heterosexuality

In this paper, we explore how early adolescents' descriptions of their romantic relationships produce evidence of how precursors to violence are woven into the fabric of such relationships from the very beginning of their experiences of "heterosociality." We identified Rich's (1983) concept of compulsory heterosexuality as an interpretive framework for analyzing these relationship narratives, examining qualitative data from two samples (combined n= 100) diverse in ethnicity and income to form a dialogue between youth perspectives and theory. We offer adolescents' descriptions, and our interpretations, of several themes, including the conceptualization of boys as sexual predators which normalizes such behaviors, girls' behavior in response to assumed male aggression, and boys' narration of their participation in relational processes which reproduce these beliefs and behaviors.
Atomic force microscopy study of the conformational change in immobilized calmodulin.

Maintaining the biological functionality of immobilized proteins is the key to the success of numerous protein-based biomedical devices. To that end, we studied conformational change of calmodulin (CaM) immobilized on chemical patterns. 1-cysteine mutated calmodulin was immobilized on a mercapto-terminated surface through the cysteine-Hg-mercapto coupling. Utilizing Atomic Force Microscope (AFM), the average height of the immobilized calmodulin was determined to be 1.87 ± 0.19 nm. After incubation in EGTA solution, the average height of protein changed to 2.26 ± 0.21 nm, indicating conformational change of CaM to Apo-CaM. The immobilized CaM also demonstrated conformational change upon the reaction with known calmodulin antagonist chlorpromazine (CPZ). After incubation in CPZ solution, the average height of CPZ-bound CaM increased to 2.32 ± 0.20 nm, demonstrating the immobilized CaM still has the similar response as in bulk solution. These results show that immobilization of calmodulin on a solid support does not interfere with the ability of the protein to bind calcium and calmodulin antagonists. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of employing AFM to probe and understand protein conformational changes.
Genotyping of 73 UM‐SCC head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cell lines

Background We established multiple UM-SCC (University of Michigan Squamous Cell Carcinoma) cell lines. With time, these have been distributed to other labs all over the world. Recent scientific discussions have noted the need to confirm the origin and identity of cell lines in grant proposals and journal articles. We genotyped the UM-SCC cell lines in our collection to confirm their unique identity.
A reappraisal of the prehistoric and classical amber trade in the light of new evidence

(1974). A reappraisal of the prehistoric and classical amber trade in the light of new evidence. Journal of Baltic Studies: Vol. 5, No. 4, pp. 295-314.
Environmental factors affecting localized corrosion of 7075-t7351 aluminum alloy plate

An earlier paper on the mechanism of localized corrosion of 7075 alloy plate in 3.5 pct NaCl solution showed that pitting of an anodic zone in the vicinity of grain boundaries caused intergranular corrosion of 7075-T651 (peak aged condition). It also showed that overaging to the T7351 temper reduced the difference between pitting potentials of the grain boundaries and grain interiors so that intergranular corrosion could not be sustained. This paper shows that certain changes in the environment strongly affect the difference between pitting potentials of the grain interior and the anodic grain boundary of 7075-T7351. Consequently, the susceptibility for intergranular corrosion is substantially greater in certain environments. Nitrates are most detrimental. The effects of sulfates and pH in chloride + nitrate solutions were relatively small.
Low-cost monopulse antenna using bi-directionally-fed microstrip patch array

A new technique for realising a simple low-cost monopulse antenna using a symmetrical bi-directionally-fed microstrip patch array is described. The antenna is designed and demonstrated at Ka-band. Two squinted beams are radiated from a bi-directionally fed microstrip patch array, and a sum/difference pattern is synthesised using the in-phase and out-of-phase signals achieved using a hybrid ring coupler. The measured return loss is better than 10 dB at the sum and difference port, and the null depth at broadside is more than 30 dB.
VCSEL-based optical transceiver module operating at 25 Gb/s and using a single CMOS IC

We present here a low cost, small form factor, optical transceiver module composed of a CMOS IC transceiver, 850 nm emission wavelength VCSEL modulated at 25 Gb/s, and an InGaAs/InP PIN Photo Diode (PD). The transceiver IC is fabricated in a standard 28 nm CMOS process and integrates the analog circuits interfacing the VCSEL and PD, namely the VCSEL driver and Transimpedance Amplifier (TIA), as well as all other required transmitter and receiver circuits like Phase Locked Loop (PLL), Post Amplifier and Clock & Data Recovery (CDR). The transceiver module couples into a 62.5/125 um multi-mode (OM1) TX/RX fiber pair via a low cost plastic cover realizing the transmitter and receiver lens systems and demonstrates BER -12 at the 25 Gb/s data rate over a distance of 3 meters. Using a 50/125 um laser optimized multi-mode fiber (OM3), the same performance was achieved over a distance of 30 meters.
A Methodology for Structuring the Logic of Interaction in Human Terms

Creating systems that contain “simple” and “clear” logical sequences is an art, perhaps even an accident, rather than a well-understood science. In this paper we apply artificial intelligence techniques to create systems with a very fluid, dynamic problem-solving structure to prevent rigid, inflexible logical sequencing. The rules employed to explore the problem space are modelled after experts who routinely solve problems in the task domain. The design of an example system, an airline reservation system, is discussed as a domain in which problem-solving techniques can substantially aid the user of the system (a reservation agent) to find better answers for clients in less time.
German catholics in the third reich: Nationalism and religion

L'A. aborde ici la question delicate de l'attitude des catholiques allemands sous le III e Reich en examinant la relation complexe qui existe entre religion et nationalisme. L'etude montre toute l'ambiguite d'une institution religieuse qui a tolere le nationalisme allemand tout en critiquant le parti Nazi sur d'autres plans. L'A. s'appuie ici sur des faits et des documents historiques pour avancer ses theses et pour les etayer. Il ne s'interesse pas seulement a la periode 1933-1945 mais peut remonter jusqu'en 1871 si la demonstration l'exige pour une comprehension plus ample du phenomene etudie
Identification and characterization of the glutamine-utilizing carbamyl phosphate synthetase activity in Drosophila melanogaster

Abstract The predominant carbamyl phosphate synthetase activity in adult Drosophila melanogaster is a glutamine-utilizing, N -acetylglutamate-independent enzyme similar to that found in other eukaryotes. The synthetase poorly utilizes high levels of NH 4 + in place of glutamine. Its activity is severely reduced in particular r mutants in agreement with earlier findings. The utilization of glutamine, Mg 2+ , and ATP by the enzyme are described. A pH optimum of 7.4–7.6 was determined. The enzyme's activity is inhibited by UTP, UDP, CTP, CDP, adenosine, AMP and free ATP and its activity is stimulated by 5-phosphoribosyl-1-pyrophosphate. These properties are discussed and compared to those of the enzyme from other organisms.
The Flow and Ebb of Democracy’s Third Wave

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjia.v0i18.72 Mongolian Journal of International Affairs No.18 2013: 94-104