cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Reciprocal Crossovers and a Positional Preference for Strand Exchange in Recombination Events Resulting in Deletion or Duplication of Chromosome 17p11.2

Smith-Magenis syndrome (SMS) is caused by an ∼4-Mb heterozygous interstitial deletion on chromosome 17p11.2 in ∼80%–90% of affected patients. Three large (∼200 kb), complex, and highly homologous (∼98%) low-copy repeats (LCRs) are located inside or flanking the SMS common deletion. These repeats, also known as “SMS-REPs,” are termed “distal,” “middle,” and “proximal.” The directly oriented distal and proximal copies act as substrates for nonallelic homologous recombination resulting in both the deletion associated with SMS and the reciprocal duplication: dup(17)(p11.2p11.2). Using restriction enzyme cis-morphism analyses and direct sequencing, we mapped the regions of strand exchange in 16 somatic-cell hybrids that harbor only the recombinant SMS-REP. Our studies showed that the sites of crossovers were distributed throughout the region of homology between the distal and proximal SMS-REPs. However, despite ∼170 kb of high homology, 50% of the recombinant junctions occurred in a 12.0-kb region within the KER gene clusters. DNA sequencing of this hotspot (positional preference for strand exchange) in seven recombinant SMS-REPs narrowed the crossovers to an ∼8-kb interval. Four of them occurred in a 1,655-bp region rich in polymorphic nucleotides that could potentially reflect frequent gene conversion. For further evaluation of the strand exchange frequency in patients with SMS, novel junction fragments from the recombinant SMS-REPs were identified. As predicted by the reciprocal-recombination model, junction fragments were also identified from this hotspot region in patients with dup(17)(p11.2p11.2), documenting reciprocity of the positional preference for strand exchange. Several potential cis-acting recombination-promoting sequences were identified within the hotspot. It is interesting that we found 2.1-kb AT-rich inverted repeats flanking the proximal and middle KER gene clusters but not the distal one. The role of any or all of these in stimulating double-strand breaks around this positional recombination hotspot remains to be explored.
Review: Angiotensin-receptor blockers increase risk for cancer but not cancer-related death

Source Citation Sipahi I, Debanne SM, Rowland DY, Simon DI, Fang JC. Angiotensin-receptor blockade and risk of cancer: meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Lancet Oncol. 2010;11:627-36. 2...
Information for competitive advantage: implications for computer science education

The primary focus in computer science education has been on computers as programmable devices rather than on computers as information handling devices which can add value to business. The skills for identifying opportunities to use information for competitive advantage are becoming increasingly important to computer science students. This paper presents examples of the use of information for competitive advantage, defines skill requirements, and discusses implications for computer science curricula.
Two-dimensional atomic crystals beyond graphene

Carbon-based nanostructures have been the center of intense research and development for more than two decades now. Of these materials, graphene, a two-dimensional (2D) layered material system, has had a significant impact on science and technology over the past decade after monolayers of this material were experimentally isolated in 2004. The recent emergence of other classes of 2D graphene-like layered materials has added yet more exciting dimensions for research in exploring the diverse properties and applications arising from these 2D material systems. For example, hexagonal-BN, a layered material closest in structure to graphene, is an insulator, while NbSe2, a transition metal di-chalcogenide, is metallic and monolayers of other transition metal di-chalcogenides such as MoS2 are direct band-gap semiconductors. The rich spectrum of properties that 2D layered material systems offer can potentially be engineered ondemand, and creates exciting prospects for using such materials in applications ranging from electronics, sensing, photonics, energy harvesting and flexible electronics over the coming years.
WITHDRAWN: The Relationships Between White Matter Cerebral Metabolites and Clinical Manifestations in Geriatric Patients with Schizophrenia: A 4 Tesla Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy Study

This article has been retracted, consistent with Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal. Please see . The Publisher apologises for any inconvenience this may cause.
Narrow-ridge interband cascade laser emitting high cw power

A five-stage interband cascade laser with ridge width 22 µm and Au electro-plating for improved epitaxial-side-up heatsinking emits >260 mW per facet for CW operation at 80 K (λ=3.4 µm) and 100 mW at 200 K (λ=3.6 µm). The maximum CW operating temperature is 250 K, and the beam quality for a sister device without Au electro-plating is 1.5–3.8 times the diffraction limit.
Possible evidence for the breakdown of the CKM-paradigm of CP-violation

Abstract Using primarily experimental inputs for S ( B d → ψ K s ) , Δ M B s , Δ M B d , BR ( B → τ ν ) and ϵ K along with necessary inputs from the lattice, we find that the measured value of sin ( 2 β ) is smaller than expectations of the Standard Model by as much as 3.3σ, and also that the measured value of the BR ( B → τ ν ) seems to be less than the predicted value by about 2.8σ. However, through a critical study we show that most likely the dominant source of these deviations is in B d ( s ) mixings and in sin ( 2 β ) and less so in B → τ ν , and also that the bulk of the problem persists even if input from ϵ K is not used. The fact that kaon mixing and ϵ K are not the dominant source of the deviation from the Standard Model has the very important consequence that model independent considerations imply that the scale of the relevant new CP-violating physics is below O ( 2 TeV ) , and possibly even a few hundred GeVs, thus suggesting that direct signals of the new particle(s) may well be accessible in collider experiments at the LHC and perhaps even at the Tevatron.
Antithromboxane activity of dietary alpha-linolenic acid: a pilot study.

Two decades of research conclusively demonstrated the antithrombotic properties of the long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) present in lipids from marine fishes. Most American consumers, however, given their preference for meat, will not realize the benefits of a fish-rich diet. Could α-linolenic acid (18:3, n-3) be similarly effective via modulation of the synthesis of vasoactive eicosanoids, i.e., thromboxane and prostacyclin? The present pilot study is a contribution toward answering this question. We determined that the urinary excretion of 11-dehydrothromboxane B2 declined by 34% from baseline level 7 weeks after the n-6n-3 ratio of dietary PUFA was reduced from 28:1 to 1:1. The excretion of 2,3-dinor-6-oxo-prostaglandin F1α was similarly affected. The dietary adjustment was brought about by substituting measured amounts of canola and flaxseed oils (3:1) for measured amounts of olive and corn oils (3:1) in an otherwise fat-free basal diet. This study demonstrates that dietary α-linolenic acid is an effective modulator of thromboxane and prostacyclin biosynthesis. Therefore, we can expect that the eicosanoid-mediated effects of α-linolenic acid are similar to those elicited by marine lipids.
Comparison of various methods of blood sugar screening in newborn infants.

We evaluated two reagent strips, Dextrostix and Chemstrip-BG, and the reflectance meter technique, Stat-tek Photometer, in the screening of blood sugar values in newborn infants at high risk and compared them with laboratory glucose determination using an automatic analyzer (glucose oxidase method). The visual inspection provided by the Chemstrip-BG was the best screening method and correlated best with laboratory blood sugar concentrations, with a correlation coefficient of 0.885 This value was statistically better than for Dextrostix (r=0.797) and Stat-tek (r=0.777). When we compared the blood sugar values
Periodic flux dependence of the resistive transition in two-dimensional superconducting arrays

New experimental data are presented which show a periodic variation of the resistance of two-dimensional arrays of superconductor-normal-metal-superconductor Josephson weak links with the magnetic flux per cell in units of the flux quantum, including a secondary minimum at the half-quantum points. Also presented is a simple model which accounts for the existence, shape, and magnitude of this periodic variation in terms of vortex core energies.
The duration of option portfolios

Abstract Duration is a value-weighted measure of average maturity which is commonly associated with portfolios of fixed-income securities. However, the concept finds application in option pricing theory also. This article shows that if options are valued by the Black (1976) formula and a comparative-statics methodology is employed, then the interest rate sensitivity of a portfolio of European options is equal to its duration. If the options are instead valued through the Black-Scholes (1973) formula, then the interest rate sensitivity is equal to only the ‘bond-equivalent duration’ inherent in a dynamic replication strategy for the option portfolio.
Visualizing 3D/4D environmental data using many-core graphics processing units (GPUs) and multi-core central processing units (CPUs)

Visualizing 3D/4D environmental data is critical to understanding and predicting environmental phenomena for relevant decision making. This research explores how to best utilize graphics process units (GPUs) and central processing units (CPUs) collaboratively to speed up a generic geovisualization process. Taking the visualization of dust storms as an example, we developed a systematic 3D/4D geovisualization framework including preprocessing, coordinate transformation interpolation, and rendering. To compare the potential speedup of using GPUs versus that of using CPUs, we have implemented visualization components based on both multi-core CPUs and many-core GPUs. We found that (1) multi-core CPUs and many-core GPUs can improve the efficiency of mathematical calculations and rendering using multithreading techniques; (2) given the same amount of data, when increasing the size of blocks of GPUs for coordinate transformation, the executing time of interpolation and rendering drops consistently after reaching a peak; (3) the best performances obtained by GPU-based implementations in all the three major processes, are usually faster than CPU-based implementations whereas the best performance of rendering with GPUs is very close to that with CPUs; and (4) as the GPU on-board memory limits the capabilities of processing large volume data, preprocessing data with CPUs is necessary when visualizing large volume data which exceed the on-board memory of GPUs. However, the efficiency may be significantly hampered by the relative high-latency of the data exchange between CPUs and GPUs. Therefore, visualization of median size 3D/4D environmental data using GPUs is a better solution than that of using CPUs.
An approximation for the hotelling-lawley trace in the noncentral case

A procedure for estimating power in conjunction with the Hotelling-Lawley trace is developed. By approximating a non-central Wishart distribution with a central Wishart, and using McKeon's (1974) F-type approximation, a relatively simple procedure for obtaining power estimates is obtained. The accuracy of the approximation is investigated by comparing the approximate results with those for a wide range of conditions given in Olson's (1973) extensive Monte Carlo study. Siotani's (1971) asymptotic expansion is used to provide further comparative assessments. It is demonstrated that the approximation is of sufficient accuracy to be used in practical applications.
Outer product processor using polarization encoding

An architecture capable of performing the outer product operation followed by a weighting of the resultant is presented in this paper. By using a polarization encoding technique, the spatial capacity is elements increased by a factor of four over implementations using other techniques. The use of space-integrating photodiodes as detectors permits the evaluation of second-order polynomials. Spatial multiplexing allows the architecture greater versatility in performing a large number of operations in parallel. The primary application discussed here using this architecture is a quadratic neural network.
Results of the Region 5 Soil-Judging Contest

All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. T 2013 Region 5 Soil Judging Contest, hosted by Missouri State University in Springfield, MO from Sept. 16–20, 2013. Seven teams competed (South Dakota State University, University of Minnesota, University of Nebraska, Kansas State University, Iowa State University, University of Missouri, and Missouri State University), and students competed individually and as a team. The schools were then ranked overall based on both individual and team scores. Schools ranking in the top three overall will participate in the national contest.
Movement and Reproductive Biology of Female Midget Faded Rattlesnakes, Crotalus viridis concolor, in Wyoming

Abstract We studied three populations of the midget faded rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis concolor) in Wyoming to obtain data on reproduction and movements of pregnant females. Pregnant females emerged from hibernation, moved a short distance to a rookery, then moved very little for the remainder of gestation. During this time, females were not observed to forage or mate. Offspring were born between 20 August and 18 September. Mean litter size was 4.7 and was significantly related to female snout–vent length (SVL). Mean offspring SVL = 193 mm, mean offspring mass = 8.0 g; neither was related to female SVL. Litter mass was significantly related to female SVL, suggesting females invest energy into more offspring as opposed to larger offspring. Females appear to reproduce every two to three years. Sex ratio was 1:1 for data collected in 1997 but was significantly female biased for data collected before 1995. These data are compared to those reported for other populations of this species.
Stereochemical configuration and provitamin A activity. X. A comparison of synthetic 15,15′-monocis-β-carotene (central monocis-β-carotene) with all-trans-β-carotene in the rat and chick

Abstract 15,15′-Monocis-β-carotene (central cis-β-carotene), prepared by Inhoffen et al. by total synthesis, was administered to depleted rats and chicks. When fed at a low daily level, it showed half the potency of all-trans-β-carotene. However, upon increasing the dosage, the provitamin A effect fell to one-third and less. Most of the synthetic carotene, when given to depleted hens in relatively large amounts, is mainly destroyed. Most of the recovered pigment was found in the droppings; a substantial fraction of it had undergone conversion into the all-trans compound.
A psychiatric pharmacist in a liver clinic managing treated patients with chronic hepatitis C viral infection

A board-certified psychiatric pharmacist is an ideal clinician to manage medication needs for patients being treated for chronic hepatitis C virus infection. Underlying psychiatric symptoms should be managed before initiating medications such as interferons-therapeutic biologicals associated with causing psychiatric adverse events, including suicide. The role of a psychiatric pharmacist in a hepatitis C liver clinic highlights the value of a psychiatric pharmacist providing direct patient care and improving the quality of healthcare services in a subspecialty practice model.
Hidden Markov model-based tool wear monitoring in turning

This paper presents a new modeling framework for tool wear monitoring in machining processes using hidden Markov models (HMMs). Feature vectors are extracted from vibration signals measured during turning. A codebook is designed and used for vector quantization to convert the feature vectors into a symbol sequence for the hidden Markov model. A series of experiments are conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the approach for different lengths of training data and observation sequence. Experimental results show that successful tool state detection rates as high as 97% can be achieved by using this approach.
Acute sensitivity vs. context-specific sensitization to cocaine as a function of genotype.

Abstract Individual variability in the acute and chronic effects of psychomotor stimulants is due, in part, to genetic factors. The purpose of this series of studies was to utilize a behavioral model of sensitization, namely increased locomotor activity, to assess individual variability in sensitization to the chronic effects of cocaine and its relationship to the acute stimulant effects of cocaine. Because the degree of sensitization is proportional to the training dose, genetic differences in acute sensitivity to cocaine were assessed and incorporated into the sensitization paradigm. Acute sensitivity and context-dependent sensitization were determined in six inbred mouse strains. Large quantitative and qualitative differences were found in the acute potency and efficacy of cocaine to stimulate locomotor activity. The ED 50 , was higher in the strains in which cocaine was most efficacious. Context-specific sensitization was determined via chronic administration of equiactive doses of cocaine (ED 50 ) specifically paired with the test apparatus or with the home colony. Sensitization was time, environment, and genotype dependent. The differences in the number of trials required to show sensitization were unrelated to the acute locomotor stimulant effects of cocaine. These findings suggest that acute cocaine-induced locomotor activity and context-specific sensitization reflect different pharmacological properties of cocaine.
Atomic transition probabilities for Dy I and Dy II

Abstract Atomic transition probabilities for 915 spectral lines of neutral and singly ionized dysprosium are reported. Typical uncertainties are ≤±10%. Branching fractions, measured using the 1.0 m Fourier transform spectrometer (FTS) at the National Solar Observatory and the 2.0 m FTS at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), are combined with recently published radiative lifetimes, measured using time-resolved laser-induced fluorescence on a slow atomic/ionic beam, to determine these transition probabilities. Reference sets of Ar I and Ar II branching ratios are used in most of the work reported here to establish a radiometric calibration for the Fourier transform spectra from the National Solar Observatory. A subset of the lines are also measured using the NIST FTS. Most importantly, an independent radiometric calibration based on standard lamps is used with the NIST FTS. The generally good agreement between these independent measurements provides additional confidence in the radiometric calibration and the accuracy of the measurements.
A model for identifying the vulnerability of streams and rivers to land use‐induced changes

Abstract This article describes a model for identifying the vulnerability of streams and rivers to land‐induced change. Landscape architects are frequently asked to make land use recommendations which affect landscape change. The challenge is to organize information to aid landscape architects in making responsible recommendations. This model considers three types of spatial information: (1) sources of land use‐induced change; (2) intensity of drainage within watersheds; and (3) sensitivity of drainage basins to change. The model also demonstrates the use of a Geographic Information System (GIS) and its application. The strength of this model is that it provides landscape architects with both time‐ and cost‐efficient means of assessing the vulnerability of streams and rivers with existing data. It further directs site‐specific investigation to areas which are identified and prioritized with regard to the relative vulnerability of streams and rivers to land‐induced change.
A Complete Infrared Simulation For The Evaluation Of Optical Systems

A detailed IR sensor simulation has been developed which models the IR scene and optical system for a variety of space-based military missions including SDI and ADI. The IR scene model includes a background radiance map, a foreground map (such as clouds), and a target map. This target map includes a hardbody radiance as well as plume radiances for a variety of boosting or afterburning targets. The scene generation portion of the software includes the combination of the various scene elements into a high resolution map which is then propagated through the atmosphere to the sensor. The atmospheric transmission and turbulence effects are estimated and included in the simulation. The actual sensor performance is then simulated using a two-dimensional Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) which includes errors due to low frequency aberrations, mid and high spatial frequency surface roughness, diffraction effects, and image motion. This sensor MTF is then multiplied by the Fourier Transform of the high resolution IR scene, and then transformed back to the spatial domain, to produce the high resolution blurred scene which is incident on the detector focal plane array (FPA). Finally, the software simulates the FPA and electronic components to arrive at the sampled, low resolution output from the detector. Detector parameters including gain, bias, crosstalk, quantum efficiency and electronics noise, photon noise statistics, and A/D conversion are all simulated in the model.
Modeling Dormant Bud Cold Hardiness and Budbreak in Twenty-Three Vitis Genotypes Reveals Variation by Region of Origin

Cold injury is a key environmental challenge in many grape-producing regions, especially those at high latitudes. Although grapevines acclimate to cold temperatures in fall and deacclimate when warm temperatures return in spring, cold hardiness varies with species, cultivar, phenology, ambient weather, photoperiod, and plant organ, which hampers implementation of effective mitigation practices. Using long-term data sets of lethal temperatures and spring phenology for primary buds of Vitis vinifera and Vitis labruscana , we parameterized and evaluated a discrete-dynamic model that simulates cold hardiness from early fall through budbreak of 23 genotypes. The model uses mean daily temperature as the sole input variable to drive daily changes in hardiness. Genotype-specific parameters, such as initial and maximum hardiness, temperature thresholds, acclimation and deacclimation rates, and chilling and heating requirements, were optimized through an iterative process. The model predicted cold hardiness with 0.89 ≤ r 2 ≤ 0.99, depending on genotype. Because it simulates hardiness at budbreak, the model can also be used to predict the time of budbreak. Optimized model parameters revealed a north/inland-south/coastal gradient for genotype origin in terms of initial and maximum cold hardiness, and time of budbreak. Budbreak occurred earlier in hardier genotypes, consistent with more rapid deacclimation of genotypes originating from colder climates, paradoxically making these genotypes more vulnerable to spring frost in warmer environments. The current model of grapevine bud cold hardiness has uses in both climate modeling and risk assessment.
Machete Wounds to the Head: Report of Three Cases

Three cases of machete wounds to the head are described. The resulting injuries from this unusual mode of trauma varied in severity and included transection of a previously placed ventriculoperitoneal shunt. Complications of these injuries resulted from delayed and inadequate treatment.
Hepatitis C virus genotype 1b chimeric replicon containing genotype 3 NS5A domain.

Infections with hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 3 exhibit differences in clinical phenotype including an increase in response to interferon therapy and development of steatosis. To initiate studies on genotype 3, we created a chimeric genotype 1b replicon containing a genotype 3a NS5A domain. The chimera was capable of efficient colony formation after the selection of a novel dominant adaptive mutation. Thus, domains from highly different strains can interact to form a functional replicase. A new genotype 1a replicon was constructed as well. Genotype specific influence on interferon sensitivity was examined using genotype 1a, 1b and chimeric 1b–3a replicons. The genotype 3a NS5A domain did not increase the sensitivity of the chimeric replicon to IFNα. The results suggest that NS5A is not sufficient to convey the increased IFNα response by genotype 3 or the replicon model is not capable of mimicking the events involved in increased sustained viral response.
Satisfaction with and benefits of a psych-social club: development of a mixed method evaluation instrument.

There are no instruments for validation or evaluation of a member's satisfaction of and benefits with psych-social clubs. This article reports on the development and testing of the mixed-method instrument entitled Benefits and Satisfaction Tool for Members of a Psych-social Club (B&ST-MPC), which evolved from findings of a qualitative research study. The alpha reliability coefficient was .92. The Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin Test yielded a value of .812. The items loaded on 3 factors. Utilization of B&ST-MPC supports development of services for rural communities through feedback from consumers. Further testing of the B&ST-MPC in settings with diverse populations is recommended.
Development of an animal model of nephrocalcinosis via selective dietary sodium and chloride depletion

Development of an animal model of nephrocalcinosis via selective dietary sodium and chloride depletion
1H MRS allows brain phenotype differentiation in sisters with late onset ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency (OTCD) and discordant clinical presentations

We used (1)H MRS to evaluate brain metabolic differences in sisters with partial ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency (OTCD) who had discordant clinical symptoms and urea synthetic capabilities to assess whether a brain biomarker of partial OTCD correlated with urea synthetic ability and clinical severity. We performed single voxel 3.0T (1)H MRS in two adult sisters with partial OTCD, one symptomatic and one asymptomatic, in a stable medical state and compared it to one age matched adult control, as well as data collected on an additional 13 subjects with partial OTCD and 12 controls. Data from voxels placed in frontal and parietal white matter (FWM, PWM), posterior cingulate gray matter (PCGM), and thalamus (tha), were corrected for partial volume and analyzed using "LCModel". All three subjects as well as the symptomatic mother of the two sisters, had neurocognitive testing, plasma ammonia levels, plasma amino acid, and urine organic acid analysis. Previous urea synthetic capabilities had been measured by stable isotope analysis. We found IQ scores to be inversely related to symptoms. Decreased myoinositol (mI) identified OTCD subjects, even the sister who is asymptomatic, in the posterior parietal white matter and frontal white matter. Brain metabolism is impaired in partial OTCD. Abnormal metabolism in apparently asymptomatic OTCD females may provide an explanation for neurocognitive impairments previously reported. The concentration of mI seen on (1)H MRS in PWM and FWM in this family could be used to deduce clinical symptomatology and may serve as a non-invasive marker of brain liability in OTCD.
Convolution and deconvolution in the synthesis and analysis of staircase voltammograms

Abstract The comparison of staircase voltammograms with linear scan voltammograms is complicated by the former's response being dependent on the measurement time. A method for the prediction and removal of that dependence is given, presenting the data in a form similar to that of semi-differential analysis. An efficient algorithm for simulating the response of a reversible system to repetitive stepwise excitation is developed utilizing the fast Fourier transform convolution procedure. A brief comparison of several convolution procedures is presented.
Developing a device to quantify light penetration in turfgrass canopies.

Light penetration measurements have not been possible in turfgrass environments due to the large size of commercial light bars relative to the low height of the turfgrass canopy. A light bar was designed and constructed for use in turfgrass canopies mowed as short as 1.3 cm. The instrument uses four miniature solar cells connected in parallel and mounted to a high density polyethylene (HDPE) bar measuring 3.5-mm wide, 6-mm tall, and 200-mm long. The constructed light bar was calibrated against a Li-Cor (Li-Cor, Lincoln, NE) pyranometer sensor and obtained a relationship of Y = 1.0293e 16.039x with an R 2 value of 0.96. Data demonstrate measured differences in light penetration through an annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) canopy maintained at three mowing heights. Light penetration measured at the base of annual ryegrass canopies maintained at cutting heights of 3.2, 5.7. and 8.3 cm amounted to 5.36 to 7.48%, 1.21 to 3.43%, and 0.10 to 0.40%, of full sunlight, respectively. This device should allow researchers the ability to assess canopy light penetration in low-growing vegetation including turfgrasses.
Viscosities of the Gay-Berne nematic liquid crystal.

We present molecular dynamics simulation measurements of the viscosities of the Gay-Berne phenomenological model of liquid crystals in the nematic and isotropic phases. The temperature dependence of the rotational and shear viscosities, including the nonmonotonic behavior of one shear viscosity, are in good agreement with experimental data. The bulk viscosities are significantly larger than the shear viscosities, again in agreement with experiment.
739-2 Intraaortic Balloon Pumping Augments Distal Coronary Blood Flow Provided Through Perfusion Balloon Catheters During High Risk PTCA

Perfusion balloon catheters (PBC) utilized for PTCA deliver antegrade distal blood flow during balloon inflation, limiting ischemia and permitting potentially hazardous or prolonged dilatations useful in management of high risk procedures. Distal flow is passive via the catheter lumen and determined in part by perfusion pressure, which may limit distal blood flow delivery, especially with lower profile PBC. Intraaortic balloon pumping (IABP) has been shown to increase diastolic pressure and blood flow in non-stenosed coronary arteries. To quantitate whether distal blood flow delivery via PBC could be augmented using intraaortic balloon pumping (IABP), we measured distal coronary flow velocity using an 0.018” Doppler-tipped guidewire placed alongside an inflated PBC (Flowtrack 40; ACS, Inc) during PTCA in 5 patients (4 LAD, 1 LCX) during high risk PTCA. Distal average peak velocity (APV, cm/s). systolic peak velocity (SPV, cm/s) and diastolic peak velocity(DPV, cm/s)were quantitated and volumetric coronary blood flow (CBF, ml/min) derived (APV × 0.5 × distal angiographic cross sectional area × 60) during PBC inflation without and with IABP. Results (means ± SD): APV SPV DPV Distal CBF IABP OFF 10.1 ± 3 8.1 ± 2 15.5 ± 7 15.7 ± 6 IABP ON 12.3 ± 4 7.6 ± 3 20.3 ± 7 19.0 ± 7 p value 0.01 0.46 0.001 0.009 While not affecting SPV, IABP increased APV, DPV and CBF measured distal to the inflated PBC by means of 22%, 35% and 22%, respectively. We conclude that use of IABP can significantly augment distal blood flow delivery by PBC during PTCA. This augmented distal perfusion may provide a mechanism to further reduce ischemia and increase the safety of high risk PTCA.
Analysis of cerebral microvascular architecture--application to cortical and subcortical vessels in rat brain.

Abstract Cerebral vascular morphology, including vascular diameters, lengths and branch points, was measured using quantitative three-dimensional (3D) imaging software developed in our laboratory, where data were collected from cortical and subcortical regions of a rat brain. To compare multiple records of the vascular morphological differences between anatomical regions with unpaired data, a simple analysis of variance (ANOVA) model may not be applicable, or may not be valid without considering correlation and unpaired data. In this paper, we formulate a novel outcome to study vascular morphological differences, discuss proper paired test statistics on unpaired data and apply the proposed methods to study the cerebral vascular morphological differences between cortical and sub-cortical regions in rats (N=6). The total vessel surface was analyzed as a composite of diameter, length and branches of vessels. The extended Fisher permutation test provides the paired test on unpaired data, which is equivalent to a permutation test based on the average of multiple sections; however, the permutation test may not be exact. The repeated measure analysis of variance using Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) can be used to conduct the paired test on unpaired data as an alternative, when the permutation test is not exact. These new approaches can be applied in the study of treatment effects on changes of vascular morphology under physiological and pathological conditions.
Somite chondrogenesis: alterations in cyclic AMP levels and proteoglycan synthesis.

Abstract Cyclic AMP (cAMP) levels have been shown to have a positive influence on chondrogenesis in limb buds and pelvic cartilage. In the present study the level of cAMP was measured during somite chondrogenesis in vitro and found to decrease from 1.38 pmol/μg DNA on day 0 to 0.9 pmol/μg DNA on day 6. Inclusion of notochord with somites caused a marked reduction, with levels decreasing from 1.41 pmol/μg DNA on day 0 to 0.36 pmol/μg DNA on day 6. Concurrently, the incorporation of radioactive sulfate into sulfated glycosaminoglycans increased from day 3 to day 6 by 38% in somite and 77% in somite-notochord explants. The aggregation of proteoglycans was analyzed by gel chromatography and found to increase with a corresponding decrease in cAMP levels. The results indicate that a decrease in cAMP levels may be necessary for chondrogenic expression in somites.
Relationship of plasma sex steroid concentrations in female fathead minnows to reproductive success and population status.

Concentration and/or production of sex steroids such as 17β-estradiol (E2) and testosterone (T) in fish have commonly been measured in field studies concerned with endocrine-active chemicals. There is a reasonable mechanistic basis for using E2 or T as biomarkers, as chemicals can alter steroid production through both direct and indirect effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. There is uncertainty, however, as to what changes in steroid status may mean relative to apical endpoints, such as reproduction, that directly affect population status. In this study, we analyzed data from fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) reproduction studies in which decreases in fecundity were associated with depressed steroid production as a result of chemical exposure. Although the chemicals acted on the HPG axis through different mechanisms, reproductive effects appeared to be expressed through a common pathway, depression of vitellogenin production in females. Plasma concentrations of E2 or T in the females were significantly, positively correlated with fecundity. Linear regression models describing the relationship between E2 or T concentrations and relative fecundity were linked to a population model to predict population trajectories of fathead minnows exposed to chemicals that inhibit steroid production. For example, a population existing at carrying capacity and exposed to a chemical stressor(s) that causes a 50% decrease in E2 production was predicted to exhibit a 92% decrease in population size over a 5-year period. Results of our analysis illustrate a conceptual framework whereby a commonly measured biomarker, sex steroid status, could be linked to individual- and population-level effects in fish.
Examination of the three‐dimensional geometry of cetacean flukes using computed tomography scans: Hydrodynamic implications

The flukes of cetaceans function in the hydrodynamic generation of forces for thrust, stability, and maneuverability. The three-dimensional geometry of flukes is associated with production of lift and drag. Data on fluke geometry were collected from 19 cetacean specimens representing eight odontocete genera (Delphinus, Globicephala, Grampus, Kogia, Lagenorhynchus, Phocoena, Stenella, Tursiops). Flukes were imaged as 1 mm thickness cross-sections using X-ray computer-assisted tomography. Fluke shapes were characterized quantitatively by dimensions of the chord, maximum thickness, and position of maximum thickness from the leading edge. Sections were symmetrical about the chordline and had a rounded leading edge and highly tapered trailing edge. The thickness ratio (maximum thickness/chord) among species increased from insertion on the tailstock to a maximum at 20% of span and then decreasing steadily to the tip. Thickness ratio ranged from 0.139 to 0.232. These low values indicate reduced drag while moving at high speed. The position of maximum thickness from the leading edge remained constant over the fluke span at an average for all species of 0.285 chord. The displacement of the maximum thickness reduces the tendency of the flow to separate from the fluke surface, potentially affecting stall patterns. Similarly, the relatively large leading edge radius allows greater lift generation and delays stall. Computational analysis of fluke profiles at 50% of span showed that flukes were generally comparable or better for lift generation than engineered foils. Tursiops had the highest lift coefficients, which were superior to engineered foils by 12-19%. Variation in the structure of cetacean flukes reflects different hydrodynamic characteristics that could influence swimming performance.
Role of dispersion interactions in the adsorption of proteins at oil-water and air-water interfaces

The adsorption kinetics of β-casein, BSA, and lysozyme at the air-water interface were compared with those at the triolein-water interface. The rates of adsorption of β-casein, BSA, and lysozyme to the oil-water interface were consistently higher by an order of magnitude, compared to the respective bulk diffusion coefficients. The rates of adsorption of β-casein and BSA to the air-water interface were, however, closer to the respective bulk diffusion coefficients, while that of lysozyme to the air-water interface was an order of magnitude smaller than its bulk diffusivity. Also, the equilibrium concentrations of the three proteins at the oil-water interface were several times higher than those at the air-water interface. The remarkable differences in the rates of adsorption of the three proteins, particularly lysozyme, at these interfaces were unequivocally explained by differences in the potential energies of interaction ofthe proteins with these two interfaces. Potential energy calculations showed that dispersion interactions between proteins and the oil-water interface is attractive, whereas those between proteins and the air-water interface were generally repulsive. Thus, the slower rate of adsorption of proteins to the air-water interface may be attributed to the dominating repulsive dispersion interactions. In addition, the existence of an energy barrier in the potential energy profile of lysozyme as it approached the air-water interface conclusively explained its unusually slow adsorption rate and the presence of a long lag period (60 min) for its adsorption to commence at the air-water interface.
Outbreak of Leucostoma Canker Caused by Leucostoma cincta on McIntosh Apple Trees in Wisconsin.

In fall 1996, cankers were observed on branches of 7- to 9-year-old apple trees (Malus domestica cvs. Empire and McIntosh, strains Marshall and Redmax) in a research orchard in Sturgeon Bay, WI. By summer 1997, cankers had developed on scaffold limbs or the central leaders of 48 of 48 Marshall McIntosh trees and 26 of 40 Redmax McIntosh trees, but they rarely were found in an adjacent block of 40 Empire trees. In 1998, new cankers were not observed, but existing cankers expanded. By 1999, the Marshall McIntosh block was so severely affected it was removed; 50% of the Redmax trees and 13% of the Empire trees also were removed. Initially, cankers appeared as orange discolored areas on bark and frequently, but not always, were associated with pruning wounds. Canker expansion was greater during spring and fall than during summer. At later stages of canker development, bark cracked and peeled, and leaves distal to cankers died. These features were consistent with descriptions of Leucostoma canker of apple (2,3...
Ectopic Tachycardias with Unusual Retrograde Conduction to the Atria

Three cases of ectopic tachycardia were presented with unusual retrograde conduction to the atria. The first reported instance of spontaneous A-V nodal or bundle of His tachycardia with 1:1 retrograde and antegrade conduction in the face of complete A-V block of sinus impulses demonstrated decremental conduction. A case of ventricular tachycardia with retrograde conduction and 2:1 block and one of A-V nodal or bundle of His tachycardia with retrograde conduction and varying block showed unusual types of retrograde conduction. Simultaneous esophageal and standard lead electrocardiographic tracings contributed to the correct analysis of the arrhythmias in two cases. The role of drugs and the common etiologic factor of coronary arteriosclerosis were discussed in relation to the tachycardias and retrograde conduction.
Sublines of mouse 3T3 cells that accumulate lipid

From the established mouse fibroblast line 3T3, we have isolated two clonal sublines that accumulate large amounts of triglyceride fat when the cells are in the resting state. The accumulation is reduced by lipolytic agents. Unless lipid accumulation is allowed to proceed too far, the fatty cells begin to grow again when they are transferred and in this way eliminate most of their lipid.
Missed cervical dissociation-recognizing and avoiding potential disaster

Complete cervical disruptions are high-energy injuries often associated with polytrauma and spinal cord injury. Because these injuries disrupt all anterior and posterior stabilizers, they result in a highly unstable spine, and the injuries are usually apparent on screening radiographs. Patients with these injuries must be identified and protected during the multiple diagnostic and surgical procedures they may require during their initial evaluation and treatment. Emergency procedures must be carefully prioritized relative to other life-threatening injuries; formal evaluation of the cervical spine may be carried out before, after, or in stages around other urgently indicated procedures. Until the cervical spine is cleared, careful observation of precautions can avoid disasterous complications in even the most unstable situation. A case of complete cervical disruption in a neurologically intact, hemodynamically unstable patient is presented for discussion. For polytraumatized patients with cervical dissociation, combined anterior and posterior stabilization is the treatment of choice.
Authoritarianism and social perceptiveness.

(1966). Authoritarianism and Social Perceptiveness. The Journal of Social Psychology: Vol. 68, No. 2, pp. 291-297.
Power-Aware Test Pattern Generation for Improved Concurrency at the Core Level

A functional Automatic Test Pattern Generation (ATPG) for embedded core testing is presented that meets power constraints requirements and time to market consideration. Quick turnaround time for the ATPG is obtained by utilizing compact sets of test vectors. Use of test functions for the embedded cores control the switching activity so that the generated test vectors meet constraints on power dissipation. Concurrency is guaranteed with the use of test functions (as opposed to patterns) and appropriate I/O pin TAM allocation during a compact ATPG process that benefits from pre-existing test vectors. Low power dissipation is also facilitated by test functions and is driven by a metric that requires that a very small portion of each core net-list is available.
Genomic modeling of tumor onset and progression in a mouse model of aggressive human liver cancer

A comprehensive understanding of molecular mechanisms driving cancer onset and progression should provide a basis for improving early diagnosis, biomarker discovery and treatment options. A key value of genetically engineered mice for modeling human cancer is the possibility to analyze the entire process of tumor development. Here, we applied functional genomics approach to study step-by-step development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in the c-Myc/Tgfα transgenic mouse model of aggressive human liver cancer. We report that coexpression of c-Myc and Tgfα induces progressive and cumulative transcriptional alterations in the course of liver oncogenesis. Functional analysis of deregulated genes at the early stage of HCC disease supports a model of active hepatocyte proliferation on the background of chronic oxidative stress generated by a general metabolic disorder. In addition, early and persistent deregulation of numerous immune-related genes suggested that disruption of immune microenvironment may contribute to oncogenic process in this model of accelerated liver carcinogenesis. In particularly, by flow cytometry analysis, we found loss of the major histocompatibility complex class I expression in dysplastic hepatocytes followed by upregulation of numerous activating ligands for natural killer (NK) cells concomitant with a drastic decrease in hepatic NK cell frequency. In conclusion, our study provides a comprehensive characterization of sequential molecular changes during a stepwise progression of preneoplastic lesions toward HCC and highlights a critical role of metabolic disorders and innate immunity at the early stages of liver cancer.
Approximate controllability results of semilinear integrodifferential equations with infinite delays

We study the approximate controllability of control systems governed by a class of semilinear integrodifferential equations with infinite delays. Sufficient conditions for approximate controllability of semilinear control systems are established provided the approximate controllability of the corresponding linear control systems. The results are obtained by using fixed-point theorems and semigroup theory. As an illustration of the application of the approximate controllability results, a simple example is provided.
Simplifying semi-Markov fault recovery models

The author presents computational techniques that extend and relate several approximation methods in reliability prediction and performance analysis. The approximation methods considered are those that tackle the problems that arise when a Markov or semi-Markov model has a mix of very slow rates and very fast rates. It is shown that the heuristic rule approximation from performance analysis and the instantaneous jump approximation from reliability modeling are mathematically equivalent. That is, the two methods alter the probabilities in the same way. The results obtained permit the computation of the probabilities and moments of complex fault recovery and system repair models. The results are useful when analyzing highly reliable or high-performance systems, and they are relevant for several reliability prediction packages and for a model reduction method in performance analysis. >